THE CHURCH of Jesus Christ is called to be a healing community through the quality of its relationships
Learning to speak the language of pain is also part of the healing process . By sharing the story of their pain and suffering, Roland Reimer and Will Just are set free of the burden of carrying it alone.
Another part of that calling is to pray for healing for the person in pain, individually, in small groups, in family settings, and as part of congregational worship.
Margalea Warner, who suffers from schizophrenia, tells us her feelings and the requests she made of her congregation at a healing service held for her about two years ago She brings us up-to-date on her condition in a postscript. Kathleen Isaac adds another facet to the face of suffering by offering readers her learnings during the final illness and death of her father, Jake H. Epp
The focus in each article is not to figure out the reason for the pain, but how not to waste it. As you read, hear the pain, hear the hope. Become burden-bearers and hopebringers with each writer.-KFW
COMING
• JULY 6-9-60th convention of the General Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, Fresno, Calif
• JULY 25-30-Joint Mennonite Church/General Conference Mennonite Church convention, Wichita, Kan.
• OCTOBER 27-29-Central and Southern districts meeting jointly for their annual convention ; hosted by Tabor College
Too many of the traditional ways of dealing with suffering disparage its reality-even if in such a benign way as to promise relief in the next world A meaningful religion must deal with life as it is, and life as it is contains too much evil and suffering. /Turning toj lament passages are a logical consequence for anyone who has looked closely at the world. If one has never felt the need to lament, then that person is either lucky, isolated, or insensitive -DANIEL]
by ROLAND REIMER
Behind every scar, a story
Our response to suffering is more important than our understanding what caused it
CENE I: IT WAS AN ORDINARY SUMMER DAY. HOT DRY winds were blowing across the parched prairies of South Central Nebraska. On one farmyard, on this lazy, hazy day, a toddler, about three, going on four, was playing in a large sandbox under an elm tree behind the house. The boy was within view and earshot of his mother. Near him, apparently asleep in the
cool sand, lay the family's farm dog. He was the boy's pet and companion as well as guard dog to announce the arrival of anyone or anything.
Suddenly, without warning or explanation, this family pet and trained dog attacked the toddler, biting him in the face. The dog's teeth punctured the skin, tore the flesh at the temple, just missing the eye. He gouged the cheek and ripped the skin behind the ear.
The events that followed, in rapid succession and with lingering consequences, are too many to describe They included excruciating physical pain for the boy accompanied by indescribable emotions. The family asked many questions: Was
In April 1994 Roland Reimer, district minister of the Southern District Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, accidentally fell into a basement, suffering severe head injuries among others. He reflects on that experience.
the dog rabid? Would the fever spike and cause convulsions? Would vision or hearing be impaired? Would the wounds heal without leaving ugly facial scars? For the family and the boy, recovery was a time of waiting.
Yes, behind every scar is a story!
SCENE II: Years passed. The same family moved to Central Kansas The toddler became a teenager, growing steadily by jerks, like most boys do-with huge hands and feet attached to legs and arms too long to match the skinny body. And a face covered with pimples, so many and so large, at least in the teenager's eyes, he didn't like to have the light on above the bathroom mirror when grooming himself.
What is more normal than pimples for a teenage boy? Yet these were large ugly pus pockets-the kind the kids call "zits" and doctors call "acne."
Physical pain? Yes! Emotional pain? You bet! His pimples hurt the self-conscious teenager's self-image and damaged his self-esteem-especially when he shifted from being a Boy Scout to a "girl scout."
The teenager tried every remedy on the market. The doctor's well-meaning counsel, "Don't
worry, they will have disappeared when you tum 30!" was of little comfort. Again it was a time to wait and wait some more. Behind every scar is a story!
SCENE m: Many years later, more than most people care to count, a grown man in Central Kansas took one too many steps backward into a stairwell, straight down about eight feet at a church construction site. Again, considerable injury, pain and suffering.
The head injury, mUltiple broken ribs, broken right ann, fractured left thumb and scraped limbs all caused pain and concern for family and friends as the patient lay motionless on his bed in the trauma unit of a large hospital in Wichita, Kan.
But what was probably most difficult-especially after the doctors determined their prognosis and time wore on-was the facial nerve damage from the head injury. It caused double and blurred vision, impaired hearing and speakingand that awful facial droop! The pain was excruciating at first. Was pain God's gift or goof? If C.S. Lewis was right that pain is God's megaphone, it was time to wait some more and also to listen .
During the first week in the trauma unit of Wesley Hospital, the adult son told his father as they reflected on his condition, "Dad, remember, behind every scar is a story."
Yes, those are my three scars and my story.
Suffering and Scripture
Most of us have some scars. Not many have facial scars from three unrelated times in our lives. But I do! Strangely, the significance of the three events didn't get my attention until I read the counsel of the Lord tucked away in James 5:7-11, one of many passages I read on the subject of suffering. .
One day the phrase, "face of suffering" Oas 5: 10 NIV), leaped out in my reading. I bOre a visible face ,of suffering because of my facial nerve damage. During my days of rehabilitation, that stretched into weeks, I discovered more about the "face of suffering" than I had previously known or experienced.
I have painfully learned that "all our theology must eventually become biography," as Tim Hansel writes. He explains that "the constant challenge in this life we call Christian is the translation of all we believe to be true into our day-today lifestyles. " Faith must be fleshed out in life . It can't remain just head knowledge .
The Bible has much to say about suffering. In fact, the writers use at least 17 terms, which
include different kinds of suffering (physical, spiritual, emotional and relational) and numerous shades of meaning.
The reasons for suffering can be many and specific. And yet, a direct cause-and-effect association is not always evident in the suffering. In some cases, it is simply that "suffering happens, " to borrow a cleaned -up version of a bumper sticker.
I concluded early in my recovery process that it was more important for me to work at getting well with a positive attitude than to exert
A perspective on suffering
IHAVE REVISED and adapted Carole G_ Rempel's "The Maxims of Suffering" to reflect my current thinking:
• Suffering is not God's desire for us, but it occurs in the process of life_
• Suffering is not given to teach us something, but through it we learn.
• Suffering is not given to teach others something, but through it they may learn.
• Suffering is not given to punish us, but it is sometimes the consequence of sin or poor judgment.
• Suffering does not occur because our faith is weak, but through it our faith may be strengthened.
• Suffering is not something God depends on to achieve his purposes, but through it sometimes his purposes are achieved.
• Suffering is not always to be avoided at all costs, but sometimes it is chosen.
• Suffering can either destroy us or add meaning to . life.
• Suffering either drives us from God or draws us to him.
• Suffering as the will of God has more to do with how we respond to life than with how life deals with us.-RR
my limited energy with philosophical probing of why the accident had happened, or wishing I hadn't taken those steps backward, or regretting volunteering to help at the construction site that day.
Besides, I had the benefit of prayer and caring support from my wife and family, a congregation and a large constituency, that both humbled me and affmned my theology of the church as a caring community. One by-product of all suffering and waiting was expressed by our daughter, who said, "Dad, now we are taking time again to simply talk together about things that mattersomething so easily neglected when we are all so busy."
Suffering and the cross
I have found God's highest response to the many questions related to suffering is ultimately the cross of Christ, "the emblem of suffering and shame," as expressed in the gospel song, "The Old Rugged Cross."
Identifying with the veteran sufferer, the apostle Paul, I partially grasped a fresh meaning of "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and [italics mine] the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death" (phil. 3:10 NIV). It's true, our theology must became biographical. Our theology must shape our actions .
I believe suffering is intended to draw us toward God and not to drive us from him. Philip Yancey draws on several sources to give a succinct biblical summary of ways in which suffering may draw us to the Lord. Suffering can:
• refine our faith (1 Pet . 1:5-7)
• make us mature (Jas . 1:2-4)
• allow an opportunity to display the works of God (In. 9:1-3)
• conform us to Christ's image (Rom. 8:28· 29)
• produce in us perseverance and character (Rom. 5:3-5)
Therefore, I suggest our response to suffering is more important than our understanding of what caused it or why it happened. The theology of suffering for me has become biographical. Now when I look at my face, I look for the face of Christ "For God made his light shine .in the face of Christ" (2 Cor. 4 :6) When I see him, I see the compassion and mercy of our Lord and his cross, for "The Lord is full of compassion and merc y" (Jas 5 :11).
Yes , behind every scar on my face is a story. The fa c e of suffering is mine And, thank God, it is healing!
for his name's sake" as "The Lord is my parole officer, and if I get into trouble, it makes him look bad." I don't want God to look bad.
Anointing
What will this anointing do for me? I dare to hope I will be fed at God's table and anointed like an honored guest with sweet-smelling oil, a sign of restored joy. People in the Old Testament who were in mourning didn't anoint themselves with oil just as people in this century who are depressed don't commonly bathe or use deodorant. Some objects in the tabernacle were anointed, probably making them smell better, just as my using Pinesol on my kitchen floor and Murphy's Oil Soap on the church pews cleanses, refreshes. I hope to be restored to a stronger sense of being made in God's image.
In our song we asked the Holy Spirit to "help me, hold me, heal me, guide me." These words are adapted from the original "melt me, mold me, use me," which have the dull ping of recy-
People in the Old Testament who were in mourning didn't anoint themselves with oil just as people in this century who are depressed don 't commonly bathe or use deodorant.
cled plastic to me. The reality is that I cannot lose my life before I know it and claim it. I have to have an identity and self-esteem before I can willingly pour my life back to God. It takes health to ask for healing, as silence has told me. Contradictions. No! I want to be anointed to celebrate my health and my hope for recovery.
Medication
One of the benefits of my recent hospitalization for research and treatment was that I discovered how healthy I am. A thorough review of my history revealed patterns of strength and weakness. I do well when I take the right medication and when I work with psychiatric professionals I trust and with whom I can be honest.
Although I have been hospitalized many times in Iowa City, most of the hospitalizations have been short and time between hospitalizations is getting longer and longer-once as long as two and a half years.
Because my diagnosis was changed from bipolar to schizophrenic (whatever those labels mean), I am on more appropriate medication on lower doses. I can't recall a time in 10 years when I have felt more alert and focused. Yet when I wrote this, one of the auditory hallucinations that I call "the voices" chimed in with a chilling "For how long?"
Affirmation and confession
I don't know how long I'll feel this way . I have no guarantees. But I know God holds this fragile earthen vessel, tenderly, carefully. I also affirm that my life, like all human life, is holy, and that to take it by violence is unacceptable.
This is a time of confession for the times I have tried to take my life. I am convinced that God will embrace in heaven those who take their lives when their illness pushed them past the breaking point (and here I pray for Tracie, Eueechi and Eddie-friends whose lives have been lost to suicide).
But, as long as God gives the gift of self-control, I must do everything in my power to live. In receiving this sign of anointing, I am covenanting with God that I will choose life. In practical daily terms, this means being honest with doctors and counselors, taking medication religiously, and seeking help in the right places when I need it.
Covenant
This anointing is also a Sign of my covenanting with you, my faith community and friends, that I will ask for your help in defining reality when the voices distort my world and make me feel that I am unloved. I ask you to remind me then 'Yho I am-someone made in the image of God.
What can you do to help me keep this covenant? You can pray I'm sure you do pray or I wouldn't be standing before you. You each have different gifts and talents. Use those gifts in whatever way God leads you to help me.
Some of you feel frustrated because you do not have the talents or education to help me the way the psychiatric professional can . You do right to remind me to turn to them and not demand from you what you are unable to give.
But you do have unique gifts of comforting and consoling. Take me for a walk or a bike ride to refresh my body . Offer me a hug (but not if you feel this is inappropriate) . Write me a note or share with me a Bible verse I love mail, and a letter a day from my father is not enough to satisfyme.
Remind me that I have work to do by encouraging me to focus my energy on the task at hand, be it my job as stupendous secretary, volunteer at World Marketplace, or church correspondent. I hope some of you will remind me not to be busy on purpose and exhort me to take time for prayer, Bible study, contemplation-and bubble baths.
Symbols offaith
I adore symbols. On the table here is a loaf of braided bread called Challah, or Jewish braided bread. It sits on a rainbow-colored afghan my grandmother made before she died as old as I expect to die.
Beside the bread are strips of muslim, like the strips the women found in the tomb where Jesus's body used to be. · These are meant for ties for a kite I will fly high and let loose-or maybe it will get caught in a tree like Charlie Brown's I was going to write my sins on each strip, but I decided if Jesus could write about the man who accused the woman of adultery in the sand in a
A postscript...
SThis
is a time of confession for the times I have tried to take my life. I am convinced that God will embrace in heaven those who take their lives when their illness pushed them past the breaking point.
language that nobody but the person involved would understand, I could leave the labeling of my sins up to God.
I am looking forward to and a little frightened by your gathered prayer and laying on of hands at this, my anointing for healing. Do I have to kneel? What will it feel like? Touch has been violation: let it now be healing. I can't put this off any longer. Please do it now. $2
INCE MY HEALING service two years ago (March 14, 1993), I have continued to struggle with my Illness. My doctors continue to work with me to determine the most appropriate regimen. I have participated In research projects at the University of Iowa and am excited by the advances in understanding the brain that my participation has helped to achieve.
My pastors Diane Zaerr and Firman Gingerich have worked alongside my health professionals, helping me to see that God works through many channels. I've drawn much strength from a friend who has shared her journey with moods and medicine. When I'm down she tells me, "Hang in there. Talk to your doctor. Take your medicine. " When she's down, I play back her sound advice.
I continue to work towards peace with my family. I have come to see that my parents gave me everything they had, loved me with all the love they had to give, protected me from as much as they could - yet I still experienced brokenness in my life that they did not have the tools to mend. They rejoice with me that I have not had further psychiatric hospitalizations for one and a halfyears (since September 1993).
My heart is gradually being released from the bondage of hatred toward a family member who violated the boundaries offamlly. My counselors have encouraged me to draw on my own resources by journaling to discover what's going on inside.
I take courage from my prayer partner who is leading me in an apprenticeship of memorizing Scripture and claiming it for my life. Practicing healing, one day at a time, has not only lengthened my days, It has broadened and given them depth. At age 35, I look ahead to being 105 years old with a lifetime rich in memory, rich inforgiveness, rich in healing.-MW
Three floods, one family
One flood is more than most families would like to deal with in a lifetime. But what do you do when your house is flooded three times? by WILL JUST
y wife, Hope, and I stood outside our house on the outskirts of Wichita to watch the Big Ditch rising. Spillover from the Arkansas River dumps into the flood control. When that is full, water from the Cowskin Creek, near our place, has no place to go and floods several square miles in our area . That October
1985 Hope and I moved the car to higher ground and carried furniture and other items upstairs. When the water started to creep into the house, we moved upstairs. We watched helplessly. Who could stop the water? I heard Hope telling our little son, Jonathan, watching the rising water fearfully, "Jesus will take care of us." I remembered I hadn't shut off the electricity so I went back downstairs and waded through hip-deep water in the garage to the control box. I could feel the electricity in the water.
Upstairs we waited for help. About three hours later, the fire department came to our rescue. Jonathan was the first down the ladder from the upstairs bedroom to the boat tied to our porch. He sat down beside the helmeted fireman, looked up, and asked, "Jesus?"
We went to our children's place in Haysville. Sleep didn't come that night as I worried about the rising water . Was it three feet high already? Six feet? Up to the eaves? How would we deal with the damage?
We found the water had risen eight to nine inches in the house. After it receded, people from church wiped mud off the walls , pumped water and shoveled dirt Someone from the church installed carpet. We were grateful. Water had come almost to the roof of a new Buick car I got the vehicle running again.
LIFE WENT ON. We had survived a once-inhundred-years flood. Wrong! On May 8, 1993, water was rising again in the creek because of heavy rains. We drove our cars to higher ground and carried furniture and other possessions upstairs. Hope never received her Mother's Day card, lying in a dresser drawer, because at midnight we decided to get out
We climbed into the van where we made a bed for Jonathan in the back to sleep on. Hope and I waited out the night Every 30 minutes I got out to check the water level and drove the van to a still higher spot . The water was rising steadily.
This time the flood did not damage any vehicles, but once again we cleaned out dirt and installed new carpet.
The same summer we decided to drive to Nebraska with our new RV. As we returned we saw water everywhere in Russell County. The heavy rains had done their damage. We spent the last night of our trip at a McPherson campground, about 50 miles from home, unaware of what was taking place there.
As we neared our home, we knew we were
in trouble once again I stopped where the creek crosses our road and waded across. In the house I saw the familiar but unwelcome visitor Water had once again invaded our house and home I sat on a stump and hung my head. It didn't seem right that it should happen twice within 60 days and three times to one family.
This time we had not been prepared. Four vehicles were under water. Everything resting on the floor, such as shoes, boxes of pictures and documents, was soaked
The RV became our temporary home. Once again people came to help us clean up. We took some things to the home of friends in case the water came again. The rainy season had not ended.
THIS LAST FLOOD, in particular, affected me, my wife, our marriage. It put a special strain on us we were not aware of. Questions tumbled out in quick succession: What had I done wrong? Was this a judgment?
How could I ask for help again? People had helped me before. Would people get tired of helping Will Just? Since this had happened before, why did I stay in this place? Surely my friends considered me foolish to remain in this flood-prone area It became a status thing with me. My self-esteem deserted me. The implication for me was "Why don't you organize yourself in a better fashion and get out?"
Why hadn't I?
I had lived in this three-acre location for 22 years , the longest in my life Our home is a beautiful cool, secluded place with large trees , away from the rush of city life. It is an ideal place to live if you want to get away from the world .
How could I ask for help again?
People had helped me before . Would people get tired of helping Will Just? Since this had happened before, why did I stay in this place? Surely my friends considered me foolish to remain in this flood-prone area.
Many memories bound me to it. I had raised five children here, three of my own, one of Hope's by a previous marriage, and the son we had together.
My first wife and I had lived here all our married life. I could recall vividly her last day at 5327 South West Street before she died of cancer in the hospital-and I returned home alone.
My son and his bride were married underneath a tree in the yard.
Financial considerations also kept me there. Our history of floods had lessened the value of our home. Who would want a home flooded three times?
Then in July my father died, a significant loss at any age I did not openly weep at my father's funeral. I was able to speak dry-eyed, matter-offactly about his life, but inside I was crying. All disasters are tied together in a person's life. I became depressed and only wanted to sleep. I lost interest in my small wood-working business, which I had been working at since my retirement as a high school counselor.
About five years ago, I had a dream in which I, as a little boy stretched on tiptoe to look out a window in the home in which I had been raised I was watching a tall tree being buffeted to the ground by the wind. I recall once seeing a tree in Oklahoma bent nearly to the ground by the fierce wind. Why had this vivid tragedy come back to me in a dream? An omen of things to come? I don't know
OUR FAMILY HAD to deal with a series of natural disasters, not uncommon occurrences in the Bible . Floods destroyed the man's house who had built on a foundation of sand, but the house built on rock remained firm. When the disciples grew afraid when the storm hit their small boat, Jesus asked them, "Where is your faith?"
Faith is the rock foundation that kept me from being washed away by the floods in my life. The floods were not our fault. I couldn't stop the water entering our home anymore than I can prevent an illness or a death. But I could continue to trust. I set my mind to trusting.
Jesus added another dimension to what to do in time of disaster in the account of the fall of the tower of Siloam on the 18 Galileans. They hadn't sinned, but the disaster happened Still he told them to repent, a strange request. I understand from this that we are to learn from what happens to us We don't just dismiss such events as inconsequential, but recognize that they can draw us
The floods were not our fault. I couldn't stop the water entering our home anymore than I can prevent an illness or a death. But I could continue to trust. I set my mind to trusting.
closer to God. I wanted to learn from my experience.
A study of the afflicted Job showed me that we're not here to debate why something happened It wasn't my role to figure out whose fault it was that our place was flooded-God's, Satan's, the neighbor's, the flood control authorities', or poor agricultural practices.
The ancient man Job came out of his difficult experiences a better person. Afterward he knew better who God was. My experience taught me that God is sovereign even when our world goes to pieces. Three floods didn't mean God was punishing me. Floods happen.
But even now as I reflect on what happened, I'm not sure I have fully accepted and dealt with the entire experience as well as I might. Three flood-damaged vehicles still sit in the yard. However, allowing me to share my experience frees me and I hope helps you
I become more convinced that we have a ministry to one another when we give each other our attention while sharing the suffering in our lives. People provide healing medicine when they listen without judgment and accept the sufferers as they are-finite human beings who struggle, who cry, who fail, who succeed sometimes. I'm one of those finite beings. I suspect you are too. In that we are brothers and sisters None of us is immune from problems What we do about them makes the difference. tf?
Wtll and Hope Just are members of First MB Church, Wichita, Kan.
Lessons about living... from a dying father
None of my father's sermons were as powerful as the one he lived out in his final days.
by Kathleen Isaac
FAVORITE CHILDHOOD
memory is of driving across gravel roads on a pring Sunday morning on the way to some church on the other side of the Saskatchewan River-just Dad and me. Because of these trips, I heard many of his sermons, some in churches, but some in the form of stories and
JH Epp (1910-93) was a formative figure in the development of Bethany Bible Institute, Hepburn, Sask. He followed this with a 11-year stint as secretary for Asia, Africa, and Europe for the MB Board of Missions/Services. This was followed by assignments teaching in Europe and interim pastorates in the United States and Canada. His daughter Kathy, a high school teacher from Garden City, Kan., shares what she learned from her father during a lengthy illness before his death in Hillsboro, Kan., in 1993.
parables that were part of our lively discussions. However, none of his sermons were as powerful as the sermon Dad lived out in his final days. For, in facing his death , Dad taught us many lessons about living.
• Face life with humor. It is God's gift to lighten the load. During Dad's first week in the hospital infection spiked his fever intermittently, causing him to perspire profusely Once, after putting dry sheets on the bed, the nurse asked, "What side of the bed would you like to face?" Dad replied, "Oh, whatever
(he had not eaten for several weeks), then clearly stated, "You must always be thankful for everything, for God is good "
• Face death as the climax of life, one to await eagerly. I can't know what apprehensions Dad had about his death. However, I think whatever fears he had focused on finding the strength to face the dying process, not a fear of dying itself
He was anxious to meet his Savior He talked often about the peace he had in knowing that he would be going to a much betside you would like to dampen." His humor, in spite of the discomfort, lightened a grim situation.
• Face your own trials by thinking of others. When Dad learned that the wife of a friend had passed away suddenly, he was immediately concerned about her husband. When Dan came to visit Dad, Dad reached out to hug his hurting friend. Together they anticipated the beauty of heaven and reflected on God's
In the end, Dad's took longer than [De had anticipated, hut each day showed U,'" hOLD God's grace is s
ter place, the place that God had prepared for him He longed to be home, his eternal home.
• A lifetime spent with the Lord helps us face death. Biblical truths Dad had learned over a lifetime were a constant source of strength during his last days One day our reading focused on the Lord as our shepherd Dad talked about how often that image, one fleshed out for him during a pastorate in Montana, appeared in the Bible. Other Scriptures, grace and provision.
Instead of focusing on his illness, Dad concerned himself with friends or family members who had not committed their lives to Christ. His prayers resounded with faith that the Spirit would bring them to salvation.
• Face adversity with a gracious spirit. Throughout his life Dad believed that a negative attitude coupled with self-centeredness accomplishes nothing positive. Dad frequently expressed regret that his presence in Kansas, where his final illness took place, away from his home in Saskatoon, meant extra effort on our part "I don't want to be a burden," he often stated . To the nurses he remained congenial with a standard response to their questions about his needs: "Whatever is most convenient for you. "
• Keep your face turned to the Lord in thankfulness. When Dad was too weak to carry on a conversation, he was still able to converse with God. His prayers did not focus on his condition but with thanksgiving on the attributes of his heavenly Father One of his last days, he closed his eyes and thanked the Lord for the food
quoted by Dad and by visitors, were vitamins for our souls.
Like the Scripture he had memorized, hymns became a source of comfort. One night my sister Janice told us how Grandma Epp had faced death by singing hymn after hymn. "As a nursing student," she said, "I would walk down the hall and hear her quavery voice, singing verse after verse "
On that cue, we started to sing for Dad, first humming "We shall walk through the valley in peace." We moved on to "Satisfied." We were surprised when we heard a sound from Dad's lips, hardly the strong bass with which he had anchored our family sing-alongs, but a vibration of sound in time with our words. We continued to sing for an hour and a half. Dad 's eyes opened wide. Although we could not understand his words, we knew he was singing along with us.
For a time the hospital became a second home to us children In the end, Dad's dying took longer than we had anticipated, but each day showed us how God's grace is sufficient. The Lord answered the prayer Dad had sung with us many times: "Make my life to be, like a melody, ever sounding out the message of the cross " 62
BY PHILIP WIEBE
Here am I, send whom?
WHEN THE LORD asked Isaiah the big question, "Whom shall I send?" I doubt Isaiah knew that his reply would be words to launch a thousand sermons "Here am I. Send me!" (Is 6 :8). Church leaders and missions coordinators everywhere have gotten a lot of mileage out of that statement. Few words communicate the willing servant's heart quite as succinctly and pointedly.
Which may be why I've heard hundreds of talks based on Isaiah's words myself OK, maybe only dozens. But it does seem like whenever there's been a shortage of anything from miSSionary workers to nursery volunteers, someone has pulled out the "Here am I, send me" homily. Which isn't a bad thing Most of us, I think, would aspire to serve as willingly as Isaiah. Even when our aspirations fall short of actualization .
Still, last time I heard a "Here am I, send me" sermon, I may have smirked a little bit. Easy for Isaiah to say. The information boom was still millenniums away.
Until recently, I'd always taken the difficulty of willing service as a matter of quality. Was my heart the quality of Isaiah's, where I could simply hear God's call and go? Today, though, I wonder if the trouble is more with quantity. In a world where we know more than we can do, "Here am I, send me" raises another question: "Send me where?"
In the information age, there's no easy answer to that. Who among us isn't aware of far more service needs than we could possibly fulfill? We have in-church programs up to the gills and parachurch brochures up to the rafters. Some potential servants haven't even got to "Here am I" yet. They're wandering around church asking "Where am I?"
Getting sent didn't always seem so complicated. In the past, full-time ministry meant you became either a pastor or missionary. In lay ministry you taught Sunday school, joined the visitation team or served on a committee. I'm Simplifying, of course, but it's a simple fact that today we have more ministry choices than ever Which can be good. We need diverse ministries to meet diverse needs But it can also be confusing. Here am I, send me where?
While I appreciate Isaiah's model of willing service, I wonder if it's very realistic For every Isaiah I know-someone called directly by God into a specific area of ministry - there are a
dozen Jacobs. Jacob fumbled and wandered and wrestled with God, leaving the distinct impression that he was never quite sure what he was doing A lot like some of us Yet Jacob makes the Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith : "[Faith] is what the ancients were commended for" (v. 2). And we modems can be too, even when our service is more in the tradition of muddle-headed Jacob than clear-minded Isaiah.
By singling out Isaiah's "Here am I, send me ," we may sometimes do service a disservice. By all means we need to inspire with the ideal, but reality can also be inspiring Folks like Abraham, Jacob, David and Peter are considered great models of faith, yet all of them messed up early and often I appreciate that. It shows me that the road to service isn't always a straightaway. For many of us, getting there takes trial and error, thinking and figuring, dinking and dithering , and most of all, time.
But time, of course, is what nobody has anymore. I hardly have time to fulfill my responsibilities, much less fail at them Someone has said that failure is the back door to success, but I wonder if it might be the only door Learning to walk, learning to relate, learning to parentall of these demand a series of bumps and bruises and blunders Learning to minister is no different. We learn to do it right partly by learning from doing it wrong.
What isn't often mentioned in the "Here am I, send me" speeches is that Isaiah was called to fail. At first, anyway. "Make the heart of this people calloused," the Lord said, "make their ears dull and close their eyes" (6: 10). We don't like to say that about service-that it isn't always fully and finally successful. That it can be a grind . That people don't always appreciate it or even notice We're not crazy We want people to say "Here am I," not "I'm outta here ."
It's probably better, though, for people to know what they're getting into sooner rather than later, because they're going to find out later anyway If service sounds merely like a matter of showing up, a lot of folks might say "Here am I" without adding "Here I stay " But if people know that service can be tough, treacherous, thankless , then those who serve anyway will likely be real servants.
And once the real servants have been identified , I'll be ready. When the Lord asks "Whom shall I send," I will stand up and say with confidence , "There they are, send them! " f!f2
Someone has said that failure is the back door to success, but I wonder if it might be the only door.
Philip Wiebe lives in Salem, Ore.
What's in a name?
It is with interest and concern I read that changing the name of a congregation from Mennonite Brethren to Community Church will bring new life to a congregation. We are ex-Mennonite Brethren and are involved with a community church.
My job as a teacher took us to where there was or is not a Mennonite Brethren church. We do miss the stability and the Bible teaching that we received in our younger years. We have learned that in a community church you allow for a more varied belief, and it is more dependent on the pastor to set the tone, and some do not have a church background. We also fInd in our situation that not having ties with other churches or denominations has caused much heartache . We do miss the missionary program and the fellowship with people of like background.
Just a name change is not the answer . People come to church because they have a need and unless that spiritual need is met, they will not help build God's kingdom.
We have been away from the Mennonite Brethren church since 1950, but in our travels and volunteer work, whenever there was a Mennonite Brethren church in the area, we attended it. Thus it has been refreshing to hear the sermons and the singing of hymns. Or has this changed?
Henry and Ruby Enns Toutle, Wash.
Aging and growing
Four old men, retired pastors, all of us, had coffee this morning. We just happened to be in the same town for the day. In the course of exploring each other's present activity, the subject of the Christian Leader article, "Can I Grow After 65?" was discussed. We all agreed that it had been helpful I wanted to write to say thank you. Werner Kroeker Reedley, Calif.
A D E R
IbJ The words "Choosing to grow" are the key. The article "Can I Grow After
65?" is analytical, perceptive and the truths voiced are not an option for a true biblical Anabaptist follower of Christ. If the so-called 2,000 additional discretionary hours that come with some retirements are not planned for , they will likely be wasted. One's personal view of "eternal worthwhileness" should not be solely tied to what one does, but the values of the eternal soul.
At the judgment seat of Christ, many surprises await us. We will surely learn then, if not now, that fIrst of all, God wants our wholehearted devotion, then our productions.
It's said that many tie their worth to what they do, the plaudits of their fellows, and on what can be amassed.
Loyal Funk Bakersfield, Calif.
The sacred and sarcastic
As a reader from the North who reads your magazine with interest, I was disturbed by brother George Nachtigall's letter (April).
I am sadly curious why our brother thinks that the renaming of a church and a certain shift in worship style, though marking a signifIcant and difficult change, so terribly violates our Anabaptist traditions, when biting sarcasm and a venomous spirit does not. Is our tradition not a lot more about saying, "We disagree, my brother, can we not sit down and speak with one another to seek some mutual understanding, promising not to kill one another, than it is about service style and naming a church?"
Why have we not noticed that much of the richness of Menno
Pontius' Pudd le
F'C>WER
Simons' teaching and leading is still with us today because he was not afraid to break with the past and stand up against the status quo?
If holding onto tradition carries so much spiritual value, as seems to be suggested in much of today's discussion about changes in our denomination , Menno Simons and his peers should not have dared to break away from the Roman church and should stand condemned by God for doing so. We dare not stand still. To do so certainly violates Scripture and everything the early Anabaptists spoke up and died for.
I fear that the good people in the Desert Valley Community Church, whom I do not know, have in a sense been "killed" and now, Brother Nachtigall, need some loving care from you to balance out the cutting admonition you rendered.
I pray you have as much passion to love as criticize. That is what I was always taught that our faith taught.
DanL. Unrau Richmond, B.C
IbJ It has become obvious in some recent letters from readers that worship music is a volatile and intensely personal subject. Many express brittle opinions about the use of choruses or of hymns in our services . This has become a divisive issue in Mennonite Brethren congregations, even leading some to worship elsewhere.
I hope that we can come to appreciate and use both formats, and with some patience and exposure to our less favorite style, come to enjoy both equally. Hymns and choruses each
have their own unique values that I hope we can aU utilize in expressing adoration to our Lord
Many of us grew up singing the great hymns of the faith with their strong harmonies and meaningful words , and so they have become an integral part of our worship experience. We must admit, however, that they were once also considered contemporary when they were composed in the dim past.
I also find that nine out of 10 hymns sing about God On the other hand, choruses are recently written and most of them are addressed to God, and in that sense, communicate our personal relationship directly to him.
It is true that the musical structure of choruses is much simpler and less challenging to sing, but this is a boon to those who have difficulty reading music and singing harmony parts. This also releases our attention from the mechanics of the music and allows it to be placed into the worship experience itself.
It must also be said that the repetition referred to in some letters is not for God's benefit It is certainly true that God hears us the fIrSt time, but it is for our edification, as the content of our praise sinks ever deeper into our spirits The rigid structures of "verses 1,2 and 4" can become a bondage that limits the depth of our worship
I find too many who want to get praise and worship "out of the way" so we can get to the sermon and go home by 11 :30 They fail to realize that it is in worshiping our Lord that our hearts open in expectation to what he has to say to us through the pastor's message.
I would also hope that we could challenge ourselves to be more tolerant and appreciative of the diversity of talents and technology God has graciously given us regarding instrumental and vocal accompaniment. I am personally grateful that not everyone plays trombone as I do Let's learn to enjoy the uniqueness of each sound and let it take us to new levels of response
Praising and worshiping our wonderful Lord can be a thrilling, moving experience if we can but shed preoccupation with prejudices and allow ourselves the freedom to utilize aU the
tools that God has provided Remember, the Lord inhabits the praise of his people . I believe we at the Buhler MB Church have come a long way toward reaching this goal . Come visit us . Dennis M Schmidt Buhler, Kan.
JlJJ I take no issue with people who have different worship style preferences People are different and so their worship of God is bound to be different. However, to suggest that contemporary worship led by a team is necessarily performance oriented or that it is a waste of time to sing choruses more than once is dead wrong.
Any form of worship leading can become performance oriented, be it a choir, band, quartet, soloist, etc . Similarly, a hymn can be sung with the same empty, mechanical quality of a repetitive chorus
On the other hand, each of the above forms of worship and worship leading can lead people into the presence of God If the hearts of the wor· ship leader and the worshipers are open to the moving of the Spirit, the spirit will do his work
The issue in either case is the heart of the worshiper , not the style of worship. Given that fact, let's encourage one another to be true worshipers, and let's do it with positive words that build and motivate each other to action.
Calling people "karaoke singers" and writing letters that only build higher walls between us will get us nowhere.
David Thiessen Clovis, Calif.
JlJJ The style of worship [using a worship team] is simply a form of worship which a growing number of people find meaningful and relevant today. As to its appropriateness, I sincerely ask if the pipe organ, electric organ or piano receive a special dispensation permitting their use in church services. What makes those instruments and the music played on them more sacred than another instrument or musical style?
Another complaint is that contemporary music may b e repetitious at times But so are traditional hymns Recently, our song le ader reminded us how the writers of traditional hymns used repetition to help us learn impor-
tant themes He referred to the hymn "What a Wonderful Savior." That single title phrase is used 16 times in the hymn!
Traditional hymns revive my memories of joyous occasions and painfilled struggles. They point to God's steadfast love and tender care for his people, from generation to generation. The songs also evoke memories of my spiritual awakening and growing desire to know Christ.
However, the new songs with a more contemporary spin revive my spirit with new hope in Christ. He knows how to speak to my needs in today's language. Not only does he reveal himself to me, he is ministering to many new believers and to those outside the church body who are searching for new life. The pastor of the church in Phoenix is aware of this and his ministry is designed to meet the needs of the people in his community . We cannot condemn the new works or methods before we exercise spiritual discernment and see what God is or is not doing here Do we want to limit evangelism and worship to sinners (that's us) who can relate to hymns written centuries ago (and accompanied by a specific group of musicians and instruments)? I hope not
Although our styles of worship may change with the times and from place to place, the intent is the same. We are to honor and glorify our Lord as we praise and worship him with song and hymns and spiritual songs Music for any other reason does not matter at all Paul D. Penner Hillsboro, Kan
JlJJ I found myself both hurt and dismayed at the assessment of the events at the Desert Valley Community Church as noted in the letter from George Nachtigall . I suppose the fact that I am privileged to know Ed and Bonnie Toews and to call them friends will have a good deal to do with my affirmation of their desire to serve the Lord. I feel that Nachtigall's remarks are quite unfair and I hope he might take some time to travel to Phoenix and reappraise his analysis of that work Robert F Lewis Reedley, Calif.
BY JIM HOLM
To be a Promise Keeper
EVER SINCE I HEARD about the men's movement called Promise Keepers, I've been interested. What draws men like a magnet to gatherings of thousands of other men?
My opportunity for firsthand experience came this winter, when our church organized a men's ministry, based on the principles of Promise Keepers. I joined a small group of men that met every Wednesday for eight weeks. During those early morning meetings, we read the Promise Keeper's manual, Seven Promises of a Promise Keeper. Each chapter highlights a promise which a man makes to other men and for which he is held accountable Though the book is not a spellbinder, it reminds men of some important commitments which are owed to God and to others .
As I read, I knew that I had heard this all before. Still, the reminder was important. I enjoyed the small group as each man shared a response to the promises. Our group didn't do very well with accountability, and at the end of the eight weeks, we elected not to continue meeting. But the experience was a good one.
Following the meetings, we were urged to attend a Promise Keepers rally to get the true flavor of the movement. I was eager to sign up for the conference in Los Angeles in early May.
That's how I found myself on a bus with 40 other men, and a few boys, heading for a weekend in Los Angeles. I knew that some time during the weekend I would be singled out for special treatment because Promise Keepers is especially supportive of pastors. That special treatment began in the parking lot before we boarded the buses As we gathered to pray, all pastors were asked to raise a hand in the air. As I did, a dozen men standing nearby, many I did not know, laid their hands on me and prayed for me . The spectacle at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was amazing. This structure has seen hundreds of hard -fought football games, both college and professional. It has twice been host to the Olympic Games . It has felt the effects of an earthquake, with one whole section having dropped away, leaving a gaping hole staring at the sky. But now, we were told, it was witness to the largest Promise Keepers gathering in history-72,548 men, cheering, yelling, singing, praying, listening, playing.
It was an exciting time . The music, with the words flash e d on the Jumbotron screen at the
east end of the stadium, was energizing. The spirit of the men was exuberant. Dozens of beach balls floated around the arena, until the program started. Then they, along with all the paper airplanes, disappeared, only to emerge at the next break. We cheered, one side shouting about Jesus to the other side, and that side answering back.
The speakers were good Like the book, they said little that was new. I suspect many of us had heard it before But their energy, and the responses of the crowd, were so stimulating that I found myself joining others in cheering wildly at the restatement of old truth. In keeping with Promise Keepers ' intention to break down racial barriers, five of the eight speakers were not anglo
As the conference drew to a close late Saturday night, the moment I had been anticipating arrived. The leader reminded all of us of the importance of a pastor, and spoke of how Promise Keepers builds up the local church. Then he called for all pastors to make their way down to the floor of the stadium. I was sitting near the top, in the 19th row. As I stood to my feet, men sitting around me broke into a spontaneous cheer. As I looked over the Coliseum, I saw hundreds of other pastors beginning to make their way down the long row of steps to the field.
As we descended, a thunderous roar filled the arena. Thousands of men were stamping their feet, yelling and clapping, for us. As I walked past them, men raised their hands to give me a high five or a slap on the back. When we got to the bottom, the shout turned into a chant from 70,000 throats. "We love you. We love you. We love you. We love you." I fought back tears. But as I looked at other pastors standing around me, I saw their eyes glistening brightly too.
The bus trip back was exhilarating. We were on a high. Was Promise Keepers worth it? Absolutely! Would I go again? Definitely! Will the commitments that men made during those two days last? I don't know, but if pep rallies help athletic teams to play better , then perhaps a giant pep rally like this will help the men of our church live more godly lives
Promise Keepers touched me deeply, in an intensely personal way. I too needed to make a promise . That story will have to wait for another time . But for now, I desire to be a Promise Keeper.
If pep rallies help athletic teams play better, then perhaps a giant pep rally like this will help the men of our church live more godly lives.
Jim Holm is from Reedley, Calif.
I
BY MARVIN HEIN
QEverywhere I go, even among what I would call successful marriages, I hear husbands referring to their wives as giving an overabundance of directions in the little affairs of daily life. Is this the price husbands pay for otherwise being the "head of the house?" (CALIFORNIA)
AStrange that you should ask!
Recently, three of us couples were discussing wives who give directions while their husbands drive cars. All three husbands in this case could give ample illustrations of how their spouses had a way of giving driving counsel on myriad items
No rancor flavored these conversations. All involved admitted they quite often got lost driving to their destinations. Husbands said they appreciated a good navigator when driving to unfamiliar places It just seemed strange, the husbands agreed, that the advice so often comes so freely, and that it includes even the most elementary of all chores-such as choosing a parking place at the supermarket. And the wives confessed they sometimes tempered their counsel (when the driver had just made a mistake) by such kind remarks as, "If I were driving I would have turned back there!"
Is this free advice the result of men exercising their "headship" on the "big " decisions of life? No, I think not. Some of these sometimes unwelcome hints for action come because our mates have learned about our weaknesses. It is a little annoying, I confess, to see my wife glance in the sideview mirror almost every time I get ready to change lanes on the freeway. But experience tells me she is looking out for her safety and mine. Several times she has prevented an accident by seeing something I didn't.
But perhaps a better answer for the inquirer is that wives (especially those who are or have been mothers) have learned to make most of the mundane decisions in a family . Particularly in the age group where husbands have not cooked and baked and washed clothes, wives make more decisions.
They normally decide more of the questions about the children-scheduling, diet, clothes, social calendar, friendships, etc. Wives pretty well plan what shall decorate the interior of the house. So it is very natural, because of their multiple responsibilities in the home, to fall into overmanaging (excuse the bias, please!).
A casual friend of ours, Tim Kimmel, has written a book titled Powerful Personalities (Focus on the Family, 1993) in which he cites a case of a good wife playing the manager's role, to a fault. One day, husband Mark, to show his exasperation with some of her repetitive overmanagement in a humorous fashion, placed a pair of pliers, some tin snips and a toy hammer in the bathroom.
While he was showering, his wife asked why these tools had invaded the bathroom. He grabbed the pliers and clamped them on the remaining bit of the bar of soap and proceeded to scrub. With the tin snips he cut off the top of the plastic bottle of shampoo so he could force out the last two drops. And with the hammer he pounded on the shriveled remains of a tube of toothpaste and got a microscopic amount on his toothbrush. Megan broke into a belly laugh. Mark had made his point.
Why do wives give so many directions? It's probably our fault, men! But who cares? Maybe we oUght to learn to laugh more about these curious habits of our spouses.
QWhy did Jesus in Luke 22:36 tell the disciples to buy a sword when he so often insisted that violence was not the proper course for his followers to take? (CALIFORNIA)
AJesus earlier had told the disciples not to take any provisions along when beginning a missionary tour . Apparently friendly people along the way would supply their needs
In the verse in question he is giving
Do you have a question about a Bible passage, doctrine, conference policy, or other spiritual issue? Send it to "Inquiring Minds, " c/o Marvin Hein, 4812 E. Butler, Fresno, CA 93727.
a different message: They will meet people reluctant to give them hospitality. They will have to fend for themselves. They may even get into trouble . So Jesus tells them what to take (purse, bag, etc.) and if they have a cloak (mantle) but no sword, they should sell the clothing and buy a sword.
Luke can't mean that Jesus was suggesting swords for self-protection. If that were the case , why did Jesus admonish Peter so severely when he let fly with a sword and cut off a slave's ear? Jesus, knowing the military odds he would soon confront, was trying to tell his followers that swords would be useless in the coming hours,
Rather than an armament program for Christians, Jesus was saying that it would be ludicrous to think that a couple of swords would adequately defend the disciples against the band that would arrest Jesus and oppose the twelve.
When Jesus ended the conversation by saying, "It is enough," he did not mean that two swords were sufficient. The disciples, misunderstanding his sad irony, should have understood those words to mean: enough of that! It was time to drop the subject, Jesus was suggesting, because they weren't catching on anyway.
My conclusion? The passage has nothing to say directly on the matter of whether armed resistance to injustice or evil is ever permissible It is simply a vivid, pictorial way of describing the kind of world the twelve would now face and how any bodily resistance to their enemies would be of no benefit.
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the first of many Mission USA "infomercials." Mission USA desires to communicate with the Mennonite Brethren constituency on a regular basis to build support and prayer within the denomination for the purpose of church planting and evangelism.
These are our goals for our initial six months:
1. Say 'Thank you' to those who have laid the groundwork for Mission USA: Loyal Funk, Lynford Becker, Henry Schmidt, Bob Vogt, Jim Holm and many others too numerous to mention.
2. Become full partners with Youth Mission International.
3. Open dialog with Tabor College, Fresno Pacific College and Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary.
4. Meet with District Home Mission Boards and invite district ministers to be members of the board.
5. Identify target locations for the Renewal/Church Planting program.
6. Send to constituents two mailings or inserts which express prayer concerns and needs.
7. Be available for district conferences.
8. Begin with staff only to work on a contract basis.
9. Ask churches to pray with us during U.S. Conference Week of Prayer in January, 1996.
Mission USA Q&A
• Do you have a question regarding the ministry or goals of Mission USA? Send it to Mission USA, c/o Mike Schuil, 176 Willow Glen Circle, Reedley, CA 93654.
• We have a "Q" for you: What can Mission USA do for your local church? Send your responses to Mike Schuil at the above address. Thank you!
Mike Schull, Reedley, Calif. Steve Schroeder, Bellingham, Wa. Fred Leonard, Clovis, Calif. Clint Seibel, Littleton, Colo.
Tim Sullivan, Hillsboro, Kan. Jim Weems, Gettysburg, S D.
Neil DeFehr, Fresno, Calif. Ernie Friesen, Wichita, Kan.
Loretta Jost, Aurora, Neb. Howard Loewen, Fresno, Calif.
Ex Officio Members: Henry Dyck, Fresno, Calif. Clinton Grenz, Bismark, N D. Roland Reimer, Wichita, Kan.
Following God's call into silence
IALWAYS WANTED to be considered profound and now I am," muses Gaylord Goertzen, pastor of the Ebenfeld MB Church located near Hillsboro, Kan. "Profoundly deaf."
Goertzen has spent 20 years, almost half his life, battling Meniere's disease, a disorder of the inner ear Not only did he notice the illne ss much earlier than is typical, but it has also affected both ears. Each time the disease has come out of remission he has lost more of his hearing while a persistent ringing in his ears and dizziness have increased
Goertzen was diagnosed with Meniere's in 1970 while serving with the u.s. Air Force. His first symptom was extreme dizziness; he spent entire days in bed. He experienced a 15 to 20 percent hearing loss at the time, but dizziness was his biggest problem The diagnosis ended Goertzen's military service , but his medical discharge makes him eligible for veteran's benefits, eliminating much of the financial stress associated with the illness.
Five years following the initial diagnosis, the disease returned while Goertzen was studying at MB Biblical Seminary in Fresno , Calif. He underwent surgery in 1977 to reduce the pressure in his inner right ear, hoping it would alleviate the extreme verdigo. "Although I lost all of the hearing in my right ear it did eliminate about 95 percent of the dizziness, " he says . "My left ear settled down to about a 60 percent loss and with a hearing aid I could do OK.
"In seminary 1 went through a real struggle with what was happening , " Goertzen recalls "I loved seminary It was everything I was looking for personally, spiritually and vocationally . For the first time in my life 1 was content with what I was doing, where 1 was and who 1 was. Then my world really crashed
BY CONNIE FAB ER
because of my hearing. How could I be a pastor? What was going to happen to me?"
At one point, seminary professor Waldo Hiebert initiated a special prayer for healing . Goertzen, his wife , Peggy, and two close seminary friends
attended. "I was not healed physically, but I was healed emotionally," Goertzen says.
"In the process the Lord gave me a promise . I've always stated that promise as a double negative: 1 have not called you to something you cannot do. That was the assurance I needed and with the help of a hearing aid I was able to adjust. "
After completing his seminary education, Goertzen accepted the pastorate of the Balko (Okla .) MB Church. During the next 11 years, Goertzen's hearing slowly decreased The changes were offset by hearing aid adjustments.
In 1988, the Goertzen family moved to Hillsboro. Three years later, Goertzen ' s dizziness increased; the Meniere's disease was coming out of remission. Peggy noticed a new loss of hearing, but Goertzen denied it. Telephone conversations became difficult; one Sunday morning he introduced guests to the congregation, but the couple had already been introduced earlier by someone else. Embarrassed, Goertzen was forced to admit to the hearing loss.
"I went back to the VA for a new hearing aid expecting that to help," he recalls "At that point, 1 was informed my hearing was going down so severely that a hearing aid wasn ' t going to help ."
Goertzen says most people begin hearing at 10 decibels . His hearing now begins at 85 decibels ; he can faintly hear a running lawnmower without a h e aring aid . Another dimension of hearing is discrimination, the ability to distinguish words without looking at the person speaking Goertzen had been testing at a 65 percent accuracy level; his new hearing loss initially dropped him to 15 percent and eventually to 2 percent. He is now
In the aftershock of tragedy
• Two Mennonite Brethren congregations try to 'offer what we have' in the wake of Oklahoma City bombing
SHOCK WAVES washed over the people of Oklahoma City as well as the nation April 19 when a homemade bomb tore open the Alfred P. Murrah federal office building. The terrorist attack claimed 167 lives and wounded 400 others. None of the victims were Mennonite Brethren, but members of the two congregations in the greater Oklahoma City area, Western Oaks MB Church in Bethany and Edmond MB Church in Edmond, continue to live with the aftershocks of that tragic event.
"People say they can't quit thinking about it," says Larry Ediger, Bethany pastor.
Paul Klassen, pastor of the Edmond church, agrees. "Everyone experienced the blast," he says. Press reports indicate the blast was felt up to 60 miles away. Klassen was praying in his office, located some 13 miles away, when the bomb exploded. The noise and violent shaking of the build-
ing prompted Klassen to leave the office at a run. "I knew something serious had happened. "
Then there are feelings, which Klassen says the whole population shares. "It's hard to explain. There is a
sense of heaviness ." He and members of the congregation have dealt with feelings of loss, grief and violation.
Since the explosion, Klassen has addressed these concerns through his Sunday morning messages In one ser-
MDS response slowed by rescue effort and investigation
MENNONITE Disaster Service workers were willing and eager to help with cleanup and recovery following the bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City in April. However, tight security at the bombing site prevented such efforts. The area around the Alfred P. Murrah building was sealed off while workers searched for bodies, survivors and criminal evidence.
Local Mennonites joined the many volunteers assisting the Red Cross and others in manning telephones, helping at donation collec-
tion sites and providing food to the rescue workers and National Guard personnel.
Bill Mast , a member of the Edmond MB Church and vice-chair of the Oklahoma Mennonite Disaster Service unit, spearheaded the MDS Oklahoma City efforts. Mast and other MDS personnel met with the Red Cross, city officials and other groups in an effort to determine how MDS volunteers could best be used .
Mast acted as a damage investigator, coordinator and on-site worker while holding down his regular jobs. Mast and Leroy Miller , chair of the
statewide MDS organization, spent many hours on the phone in April and May coordinating the MDS volunteer effort. Tornados damaged parts of the state on at least two occasions in May and the two men coordinated relief work in those areas as well
By mid-Mayan opportunity to help opened for MDS in downtown Oklahoma City. Mast reports MDS volunteers, working through the Red Cross, helped residents move out of a high-rise apartment complex , Regency Towers , located just one half block from the federal
The bombing staggered a nation: "Everyone experienced the blast," says Paul Klassen.
mon, he used the story of Jesus's encounter with a funeral procession in which he revived the dead child. Klassen noted that in the midst of a family's suffering, Jesus did more than sympathize. He got involved. Klassen challenged his congregation to do the same.
But how? Several days after the bombing, Klassen received a phone call from Maxine Gacek, a member of the McIvor Avenue MB Church in "1 thought Winnipeg, Man. Gacek
delivery.
"Maxine offered what she had and it became a model for our response," Klassen says. "That is the challenge for us as a congregation: to offer what we have."
Klassen and the Edmond congregation were initially disappointed that the project hadn't been completed sooner. Now they talk of God's timing "You don't just flick a switch and go on with things when you've lost a
had been moved as she there'd be a lot watched the unfolding of loved one," Klassen notes. "We're praying that God can use the timing. " events on television. She of bitterness, wanted to help and felt that a song she had re- but there's an corded, "Please leave me crying," might minister to the people affected by this tragedy. She offered
openness. People are saying to send Klassen a copy of we need God the CD.
Gacek's call prompted now."
Because Mennonite Brethren from both congregations work downtown, several witnessed the tragic event. In their counseling, Klassen and Ediger have found people responding differently to what they experienced.
For example, one person who walked past the dam-Larry Ediger aged federal building during the evacuation of downtown offices found it diffithe congregation to begin a project designed to reach out to the 21 families in Edmond who had lost a family member in the bombing. Adults wrote personal notes to each of the families and the children designed cards. The notes, cards and Gacek's CD were gathered into packets for delivery to each of the Edmond families. The church may enlist the help of the Red Cross to make the
building. Most of the windows in the Regency Tower were shattered in the blast. The residents were asked to relocate while repairs were being made. MDS moved about 14 households.
Mast also contacted several other residents and small business owners in the area offering to assist in cleanup. In many cases, such as replacing large plate-glass windows, MDS was not equipped to help.
MDS is not seeking funds for work in Oklahoma City at this time. Gifts designated for Oklahoma City will be used as MDS opportunities arise, or will be forwarded to related agencies involved in recovery efforts in the city. (MCC)
cult to view media images of the destruction. But a policeman on duty at the bombing site found the news coverage to be therapeutic. For one eyewitness the opportunity to become involved in the cleanup through Mennonite Disaster Service has been an important part of his healing process.
Ediger has been surprised by the "openness to spiritual things" in the city following the bombing. One family that has attended the Bethany church on several occasions since April 19 told Ediger that they felt the need to attend church. Members of Ediger's church have also talked about a new openness to prayer at their places of work.
"I thOUght there'd be a lot of bitterness," Ediger says, "but there's an openness. People are saying we need God now "
The attention of the nation has slowly turned elsewhere, but Klassen says the events of April 19 are still uppermost in the minds of Oklahoma City residents.
"Survivors are still in critical condition. There are still life and death struggles, " he says. -Connie Faber
NEWS CLIPS
Churches rise to meet needs in Oklahoma City
• NATIONAL MEDIA coverage of the bombing has included several references to the strong Christian witness of the city's residents. "In virtually every interview," reported the New York Times, "local people spoke immediately not of grief, but of God and Jesus, and in the kind of personal terms that might embarrass believers in other parts of the country."
(The Christian Century)
• CHRISTIAN RECORDING artist
Kim Boyce's song "Not Too Far From Here" has been used as a song of remembrance for the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing. The song was performed by an 8-year-old girl, Mikaila Enriquez, at an April 23 memorial service sponsored by The City Church, located five blocks from the disaster site. Enriquez sang the song a week later on ABC's "Good Morning America" as part of a tribute to the survivors, rescuers and the dead. (EP News Service)
• ONE DOWNTOWN Oklahoma City church was used as a temporary morgue. "Three days before the blast was Easter Sunday and it was standing room only here It was lively and j oyous," says First United Methodist Church pastor Nick Harris, "To see the church turned into a morgue is unnerving ." The church building, on the national register of historic sites, experienced significant structural damage in the blast. Harris led his congregation in a prayer for the bombers: "If we are going to be a church and not a social club, we must pray for those who did this."
(The Christian Century)
sis and decided to wait for additional information before taking action. Mennonite Central Committee's country representatives in Zaire met with Mennonite Brethren leaders May 16 to discuss responses.
The 10 Mennonite Brethren congregations in Kikwit total several hundred believers. In addition to the clinic, Mennonite Brethren sponsor a Bible school with about 50 students in Kikwit. Kikwit is the national headquarters for the CEFMZ.
A large supply of syringes, needles, masks, gowns and gloves are urgently needed at aU conference-related medical facilities in Zaire, especially the Kanzombi Clinic and Kajiji Regional Medical Center, reports Gary Hardaway, MBM/S secretary for communications and public relations. Contributions for Kikwit Emergency Health Fund can be sent to MBM/S, 4867 E. Townsend, Fresno, CA 93727.
Letters of encouragment can be mailed to CEFMZ, Pastor Masolo Mununga, 2-169 Riverton Ave.,Win· nipeg, MB, Canada, R2L 2E5. (From MBMjS, MCC and Mennonite Weekly Review reports)
MEDIATION
MBMjS to seek ro le in India struggle
• Board also hears of Zaire ministry to Rwandans
INTERNATIONAL issues
.1 were addressed at the MB Missions/Services board of directors meeting held March 30-April 1. The board expressed an interest in playing a role in the ongoing relational problems with the India Mennonite Brethren leadership and learned of Zairian Mennonite Brethren assistance to Rwandan refugees.
Two representatives of MBM/S accompanied General Conference chair Edmund Janzen to India in late May for a two-week conference aimed at helping to resolve relational prob· lems. The North American delegation included MBM / S general director Harold Ens and board member Neil Fast
In preparation for the joint meeting, the MBM/S board drafted an "open letter" acknowledging its role in the straining of relationships between itself and India. Since June 1994, mission subsidies for India ministry have been withheld, pending satisfactory reconciliation.
Pakisa Tshimika, regional secretary for Africa, reported that Mennonite Brethren have sent two teams to assist Rwandan refugees in eastern Zaire through reconciliation ministry and children's classes. Some of the workers come from International Missiological Center, a graduate school which trains cross-cultural missionaries for Africa. The school is directed by prominent Mennonite Brethren leader and educator Nzash Lumeya Rwandan interest in the Mennonite faith has prompted various Mennonite agencies to consider potential cooper· ative church planting projects, adds Tshimika. (MBMjS)
EXPANSION
Meeting to shape strategy for CIS
• Mennonite agency reps gather for Moscow summit
PLANS TO BROADEN MB Missions/ Services involvement in the former Soviet Union will depend on feedback provided by agency representatives to a strategy building inter-Men· nonite consultation held May 7-11 in Moscow.
Dave Dyck, director of programs, Franz Rathmair, regional secretary for Europe, and Herb Klassen, a vocational missionary, attended the meeting aimed at coordinating various ministries in the former Soviet states.
Delegates hope to promote complimentary efforts in evangelism, church planting, education, leadership training, economic development and media outreach. Representatives from MBM/S, Mennonite Central Committee, MB Communications, other expa· triate missions such as LOGOS from Germany, and leaders from churches in the Ukraine and Russia participated in the consultation
IN BRIEF
• Larry Nikkel, a member of First MB Church in Wichita, Kan., has been named executive director of Mennonite Health Services on an interim basis beginning June 1. Nikkel was appointed following the resignation of current director Carl Good. Nikkel is currently director of membership services. (MHS)
• Jack Braun, vice president of student development at Tabor College, has been appointed vice president for advancement Braun has been with the college for 29 years , the last 17 in student development. Judy Hiebert, associate dean of student development and director of personal counseling, will fill the vacancy left by Braun. She has worked at Tabor ______ in a variety of capacities Hiebert since 1979. (Te)
• The three U.S. Mennonite Brethren post-secondary schools graduated a total of 443 students during May.
Fresno Pacific College graduated 120 seniors May 6. California state senator Tim Leslie was the speaker. The following day, 105 students received master's degrees while 81 participants in the degree-completion program received undergraduate degrees. Gerald Winkleman, outgoing FPC academic vice president, was the speaker.
Tabor College graduated 104 students, including the first 16 graduates of the college's degree-completion program Commencement, held May 21, featured Lincoln Montgomery, pastor of the state's largest African -American Baptist congregation, Tabernacle Baptist Church in Wichita, Kan.
MB Biblical Seminary graduated 33 students May 21. Elmer A. Martens, MBBS past president who is retiring after 25 years as administrator and professor, delivered the address. (FPC; TC/MBBS)
fN BRIEF
• The Boar d of M B M iss ions/Services recognized t he serv ice of two ret irin g missionary co upl es at it s annual sp ring meeting Maynard and Dorothy Seaman, med ica l wo rk ers in Nepal , w ill soon be ret iring aft er serv ing 35 yea rs, and Don and Marie Faul. church planters in Brazil, will be retiring after 21 yea rs of service. The b o a rd expressed its gratitude to these couples for their faithful service. (MBM/ S)
• MB Biblical Seminary hosted a traini ng seminar for new Americans A pril 3D-May 1 The convocation w as spo nsored by Fresno Interdenominati o nal Refuge e Ministries whi ch help s churches and public agencie s pro vid e ass istance for Southeast Asian immigrants. About 50 Western, Southeast A sian and Slavic leaders from Mennonit e, Mennonite Brethren, Baptist, Presb yterian and Nazarene denomination s participated. (MBBS)
• A team of MB Biblical Seminary students and professors will travel to Kiev in the former Soviet Union June 12-16 for a two-week project aimed at teaching and support ing past o rs and emerging church lead ers. Th e t eam in cludes Leonid Mo rgun , a f o rm er pa stor from Kiev who is stud ying at MBB S, Allen Guenther, pr o f esso r of Old Testament, and Dave Vasquez , adj unct professor and a Fr es no Evang elical Free pastor Th e t eam has taught two similar seminar s pr ev iou sly i n Sac ramento for Ru ss ian , Ukrainian and Sla vic Amer ican s. (MBB S)
• Japanese Menn o nit es o ff ic iall y ended their earthqua ke reli ef eff o rts in Kobe at the end of April , reports Lowell Detweiler, Menn o nite Di sast er Se rvice execut ive coo rdin at o r , f o ll o wing his April visit t o th e area. Japan Mennonites fac ed co nsid erabl e hurd les in their relief attempt s, Detwe il er re ports . In addition t o th e enor mit y o f the destruction , th e Japan ese gove rnment does not re co gni ze a role f o r vo lunteer groups and was relu ctant t o encourage international volunteer participation. Much of the remaining cleanup and rebuilding will be done by the go vernment. (MDS)
STRATEGY
Brighter budget outlook prompts MBMj Smoves
• Board approves three new missionary couples
The newly approved MB Missions/ Service budget increases (see May issue) have provided the framework for a series of other moves , reports Gary Hardaway, MBM/S secretary for communications and public relations
The 1995-96 budget of $4.85 million, $350,000 more than a projected limit set by the MBM/S board six months ago, is described by Hardaway as "adventurous."
The MBM/S board approved three new couples for overseas assignments, reappointed six worker couples, expanded the duties of the regional secretary for Europe , reappointed two program administrators and agreed to continue the conference-mission partnership with the Angola MB Conference for at least five more years. The board also approved in principle the establishment of a regional United States office somewhere in the Southern District to serve the Midwest, Carolinas and the
Accident claims
LAMB Conference.
Not all financial news heard by the board was good. Word that the Canadian International Development Agency had denied MBM/S requests for project funds for this year and for 1995-96 reached the MBM/S board during their meeting. Over the past decade CIDA has provided 75 percent of the funding for health, education and social programs in Zaire, Panama, Colombia and the Ashaninca region of Peru.
MBM/S representatives have met with CIDA leadership to petition for restoration of the funds and are waiting for a response. If the cuts remain in effect, MBM/S will need to borrow $360,000 to cover 1994-95 outlays and find new funding sources or reduce the affected programs by 75 percent for 1995-96.
The new MBM/S appointments are :
• Fritz and Susi Peters-Thailand;
• Andrew and Julie HersheyBergen-Russia;
• Tim and Carolyn Gartke-Lithuania;
• One couple to be recruited-Portugal;
• Worker couples reappointed: Russell and Elizabeth Schmidt-Thailand;
• Bryan and Teresa Born-Botswana;
• Richard and Hazel Funk-Austria. (MBM/S)
LOSS
wife of MBMjS official
• Frieda Wall called 'a tremendously supportive partner'
FRIEDA WALL, fo rmer Mennonite Brethren missionary and wife of John Wall, MB Missions/Services interim director of programs, was killed in an auto accident April 21 in Steinbach, Man. She was 67. Her sister, Agnes Janzen, was a passenger in the car and sustained severe bruises and a broken pelvis.
John and Frieda Wall were MBM/S missionaries to Uruguay from 1957 to 1961, followed by a term in Paraguay. From 1977 to 1985, John directed MBM/S Latin American ministries . After their retirement, the Walls served in Germany. He assumed his present MBM/S responsibilities in 1994 and will complete his term this summer.
"Frieda was a tremendously supportive partner to John," says Harold Ens, MBM/S general director. When John was secretary for Latin America, Frieda regularly sent a birthday card and personal message to each mission worker on their birthday. Because Ens and his wife, Helen, were missionaries to Panama at the time, they benefited from this ministry. Wall is survived by her husband and two children, Robert and Marlene, both of Wichita, Kan. A funeral service was held April 27 at the Kitchener (ant.) MB Church. (MBM/S)
MBBS begins search for two full -time faculty members
• Board approves interim arrangement for academics
THE MB Biblical Seminary board of directors began the search for two new faculty members at its semiannual meeting held in Fresno, Calif. , April 19-21.
MBBS is seeking two full-time professors to cover three areas: theology and history, academic dean and pastoral ministries, and biblical studies The retirement of Elmer Martens, professor of Old Testament, and the resignation of Howard Loewen, academ· ic dean and professor of theology, prompted the search
The board approved a plan in which Ron Penner will serve as interim dean for up to 18 months, filling the roles of both academic dean and student dean. Penner is currently an associate professor of church and family ministries and dean of students.
Ron Geddert, director of the British Columbia Centre, reported that the goal of starting this fall with 15 students is within reach The B.C. program was initiated to foster church-based theological education as well as shorten the time that seminary students from B.C. spend studying in Fresno .
Henry Schmidt, MBBS president , updated the board about finances. The board then approved a 1995·96 budget of $1,828,214, an increase of 10 percent from the previous year. Seven and one-half percent of the increase is related to the new B.C. and hispanic programs.
Schmidt reported on the status of the May 31 fund-raising goals for the United States and Canada; the $270,000 United States goal was $70,000 short as of April 30 and t he Canadian goal of $310,000 was $90,000 short .
The MBBS board approved a new academic program: a master of arts in church ministry designed for church
pastors and other staff members. Schmidt said MBBS will continue to shape its curriculum to be more fleQble, adding additional church-based, evening, January interterm and summer classes. (MBBS)
PASSING
J.J. Toews: 'A father to our churches'
• Beloved churchman dies in March at the age of 80
lACOB J. TOEWS, former Central District Conference district miniser, evangelist, pastor, teacher, and churchman, died on March 6, in Donwood Manor in Winnipeg, Man., at the age of 80.
For more than 50 years he served the Lord and the churches of the Mennonite Brethren constituency in both the United States and Canada.
"J.]." as he was called, pastored churches in Dallas, Ore , Buhler, Kan., Shafter, Calif." and Kitchener, Ont. He taught at Bethany Bible Institute, Hepburn, Sask., and at Mennonite Brethren Bible College (now Concord College), Winnipeg, where he was head of the missions and evangelism departments for eight years.
He made his greatest impact on Mennonite Brethren congregations as evangelist. With his strong, passionate appeals he carried on successful crusades across Canada, the United States, Europe, the mission fields of India and South America. He held his audience captive whether they were children, young people, parents or older adults. He spoke to the hearts and got his message across.
H.R. Baerg, former colleague and friend, now of Chilliwack, B.C., writes that Toews was warm, direct and Spirit-inspired. He was "a humble man, deeply aware of his limitations. He can truly be characterized as a senior, pastor -theologian, a father to our churches and a model to young pastors."
An accident while he was Central District minister left him with a brain injury that totally incapacitated him. His wife, Lena, survives him.
IN BRIEF
• Gary Hardaway, MB Missions/Services secretary for communications and public relations, and a member of Bethany MB Church in Fresno, Calif., has recei ved a 1994 Amy Award for Excellence in Writing. The 15 awards given by the Amy Foundation recognize articles which quote a biblical text and communicate biblical truth in a secular medium. Hardaway's article appeared last July in the Fresno Bee, a newspaper with a circulation of 150,000 Written in the form of an open letter to his adult children, Hardaway explored emotional and spiritual dimensions of re lating to a mentally incapacitated parent.
• Dates for the remaining two 1995 church-based Victim Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP) training programs have been announced. The seminars will be offered July 13-15 and Oct. 3-5 at the VORP office in Fresno, Calif. Ron Claassen, founding director of the Fresno VORP and the Center for Conflict Studies and Peacemaking at Fresno Pacific College, will be the primary resource person. More information is available from Kathy Stuck at 1-800909-VORP.
• Khmu congregations in Thailand have voted to become a conference of Khmu churches and have been accepted into the Association of Churches of Thailand (ACT), the dominant evangelical coalition in the country. The decision was made during the second annual missions conference of Khmu believers. The new conference is made up of three existing Khmu churches and two emerging groups. MBM/S missionary Russell Schmidt reports that the group of about 100 is gaining momentum to evangelize the remaining Thai Khmu numbering more than 19,000. "Possibly this small group can be the springboard for (spreading) the gospel to the 500,000 Khmu in neighboring Laos," says Schmidt. Schmidt and his wife, Elizabeth, work with a number of local Christians and another Mennonite Brethren missionary with Far East Gospel Broadcasting, Sionh Chan. Fritz and Susi Peters will join the Thai MBM/S team this fall.
church, Pakisa is MB Missions/Services secretary for Africa.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif.-Families of Heritage Bible Church and Rosedale Bible Church joined for a weekend family camp May 26-29 at Hartland Christian Camp.
ADAMS, Okla.-The Balko MB Church joined the congregation for an evening program May 21 featuring Praise IV Quartet.
CORDELL, Okla. (Bible)-Joyce Martens shared her recent experiences serving with Mennonite Central Committee in Rwanda May 28.
INMAN, Kan. (Zoar)-The father/ son dinner May 30 featured Jerry Ediger, youth pastor at Henderson (Neb.) MB Church.
BUHLER, Kan.-Instrument of Praise, a new group of Christian instrumentalists from central Kansas , presented a concert May 7. The group plays choruses, hymns and spirituals in the "big band " sound.
EDMOND, Okla.-An all-church zoo trip was organized for May 21 in recognition of the end of the Sunday school year.
• Proclamation
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (Laurelglen)-This year's missions conference, held March 19, featured Greg and Debbie Snell of Edina, Minn. , and an international potluck
LITTLETON, Colo. (Belleview Acres)Keith Phillips, president of World Impact, gave the morning message March 19 Dale Warkentin, MB Missions/Services secretary for U.S. constituency ministries, was the featured speaker at a monthly fellowship meal April 23
EUGENE, Ore. (North Park)-Arno and Linda Wiebe ministered April 2 Dave Snare of Camp Christian brought the message April 9.
BRIDGEWATER, S.D. (Salem)-Ray Bystrom, assistant professor of pastoral ministries at MB Biblical Seminary, preached the morning message April 9.
FREEMAN , S.D. (Silver Lake)-Delores Friesen, associate professor of pastoral counseling at MB Biblical Seminary , was the guest speaker April 9
TULSA, Okla. (Parkside)-Rich Sprenkel Jr shared the story April 23 of his dramatic healing through prayer 10 years ago He was involved in a serious accident that should have left him in a vegetative state Today he is a competitive racer.
BODYLIFE
HILLSBORO, Kan.- Pakisa Tshimika , MB Missions/ Services secretary for Mric a and
coordinator of health and development for the Zairian MB Church, gave the morning message April 23.
DENVER, Colo. (Garden Park)-Dale Warkentin of MB Missions / Services brought the morning message April 23.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Lincoln Glen)-E1mer Martens, a member of the board of MB Missions/Services, was the featured speaker May 14.
LODI, Calif. (Vinewood)-Steve Wise, chaplain to the professional AMA motorcross riders and an active motorcyle racer, shared his story May 7.
FERNDALE, Wash. (Good News Fellowship)-Ed Boschman, pastor of the Willow Park (MB) Church in Kelowna, B C., was the guest speaker at the Christian education workers appreciation banquet May 6 . He also preached the morning message May 7.
• Teaching/Nurture
HENDERSON, Neb.-Family renewal meetings were held jointly with Bethesda Mennonite Church April 2-5. The guest speaker was Larry Martens, pastor of the North Fresno MB Church, Fresno, Calif.
FERNDALE, Wash. (Good News Fellowship)-The congregation cosponsored a spring break camp for children April 3-7 with Child Evangelism Fellowship
HILLSBORO, Kan.-An inner-life retreat April 21-22 encouraged participants to fast from their daily routine and spend time in prayer and meditation.
NEW HOPE, Minn.-Events organized during the Mirror of the Martyrs display included storytellers T. Gordon Lewis of Rapid City, S.D , who portrayed a colonial character April 23, and Sarah Meybaum and friends, who shared stories about martyrs April 30.
BALKO, Okla.- Jim Bartel, music minister at the Buhler (Kan ) MB Church, led a worship seminar May 6
• Celebrations
FAIRVIEW, Okla.-The congregation invites all family, friends and former members to attend centennial celebration events Oct. 21 and 22.
MOUNTAIN LAKE, Minn.-The congregation dedicated a new sound system March 12 in a servic e featuring vocal and instrumental music.
ULYSSES, Kan. - Jake and Esth e r Karber were honore d March 26 for their 50th wedding anniversary with a tribute during
the morning service followed by a fellowship meal.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (Heritage Bible)Flowers in the sanctuary marked the 55th wedding anniversary of Frank and Juanita Nord May 7
DINUBA, Calif -Flowers in the sanctuary marked Clarence A and Edna Isaac's 50th wedding anniversary May 7.
TULSA, Okla. (Parkside)-The congregation celebrated the successful conclusion of a stewardship campaign designed to retire debt and expand ministries.
DELFT, Minn. (Carson)-Quilts sewn by women of the church were dedicated at a potluck meal April 23. Proceeds from the sale of the quilts will go toward the relief ministry of Mennonite Central Committee .
FRESNO, Calif. (Butler)-Fourteen members were commissioned April 30 for summer ministries . They were : Allen Guenther (Ukraine), Jodie Kalamen (Russia), Edmund Janzen Oapan, Thailand and India), Jason Robb (Costa Rica), Kimberlee Rucker (Mexico City), Jeff Wiens (Mexico City) , Josh Stafford (papua, New Guinea), Matt Eames (Fresno World Impact), Carmen Ens (Thailand), Harold Ens (MBM/S), Sue Nylander (Mexico), Debra Templeton (Montana), Sara Wall (Fresno Urban Ministry Project) and Erin McDermott Baltazar Garcia was installed as pastor of Butler's Spanish congregation April 30.
BUHLER, Kan.- The family of Dan and Lynda Goertzen hosted a 50th wedding anniversary open house March 19.
ULYSSES, Kan.-Jake and Ester Karber were honored March 26 for their 50th wedding anniversary.
DINUBA, Calif.-The children of Dave and Helen Ewert provided flowers April 23 in honor of their parents' 65th wedding anniversary .
GARDEN CITY, Kan. (Garden VaUey)Jim and Betty Loper celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary April 23 with a reception .
COLLINSVILLE, Okla. (Westport)-Joe and Iva Caudle celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary April 30.
• Workers
VISALIA, Calif. (Neighborhood) - Galen Wiest has accepted the position of associate pastor of disciple -making ministries. His wife, Kathy, was welcomed at a salad supper April 11.
LUSTER, Mont.- J Epp , a 1995 graduate of MB Biblical Seminary , has accepted a call
to serve as pastor Epp, his wife, lisa, and their two sons will move to Montana this summer after serving as pastoral intern at North Fresno Church in Fresno, Calif.
WICHITA, Kan. (First)-Shirene Sayers will be a full-time summer intern, focusing on children's ministries
FRESNO, Calif. (Fig Garden Bible)-Henry and Eleanor Pauls began serving as pastoral couple June 1, relieving pastors Geoff Neufeld and Herman Buller who have been serving since 1992
FRESNO, Calif (Bethany)-Brenda Davis is the part-time summer youth ministry intern.
ENID, Okla -AI McVety has resigned as pastor effective July 15. He and his family will be returning to Canada and plan for future ministry there.
MANHATIAN, Kan. (Mennonit e)-Eldon Epp has accepted the call to serve as pastor beginning in September. He is complet· ing his chaplain residency at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kan.
• Youth
KINGSBURG, Calif.-Children produced the monthly newsletter for April, supplying art work and articles.
ENID, Okla.-A banquet for youth and parents May 6 focused on the theme "True Love Waits." Wendell Loewen, youth pastor at Fairview (Okla.) MB Church , was the featured speaker
• DEATHS
DECKER, DAVID T., Reedley, Calif , a member of the Reedley MB Church, was born Oct. 11, 1911 to John M. and Katharina Tschetter Decker near Hitchcock, S.D , and died April 28, 1995, at the age of 83. On Nov. 19, 1939, he was married to Ruth Hofer, who survives He is also survived by six children, Ron and wife Linda Decker and Reva and husband Stan Fast, of Fresno, Calif., Dennis and wife Marie Decker of Reedley, Naomi and husband Les Thiessen of Auberry, Calif., and Reed and wife Diane Decker of Clovis, Calif.; four brothers; five sisters; 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren
DERKSEN, MARIE BOLDT, Rapid City, S D., a member of the Mountain Lake (Minn.) MB Church, was born April 12, 1902, to Claus and Helena Klassen Boldt near Mountain Lake and died April 9, 1995, at the age of 92. On June 30, 1926, she was married to John F Derksen, who predeceased her in 1988. She is survived by four sons, Carl and Ruby of La Canada, Calif , Robert and Carolee of Denver, Colo., John and wife Sharon of La Crosse, Wisc , and Donald of Rapid City; one son-in·
law, Larry Kinska of Prior Lake , Minn ; 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
DICK, EMMA, Mountain Lake, Minn., a member of the Mountain Lake MB Church, was born Oct. 20, 1913, to Jacob 1. and Maria Warkentin Dick at Mountain Lake, and died March 17, 1995, at the age of 81. She is sur· vived by a sister, Minnie Ewert; and two brothers , Henry 1. and wife Cecelia, and Emil W. and wife Annette, all of Mountain Lake
EDIGER, ALICE NEOMI, Hillsboro, Kan , a member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born June 17,1906 to David T Schuber and Katie Rusch Schuber at Okeene , Okla., and died March 31,1995 , at the age of 88. On Jan· uary 17,1934, she was married to]. Pete Ediger, who survives. She is also survived by one son, Ervin and wife Carrol of Hillsboro; three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
EDIGER, ANNA K., Henderson , Neb , a member of the Henderson MB Church, was born Feb 6, 1907 to David D. and Katherine Quiring Ediger in York County, Neb., and died April 18, 1995, at the age of 88. She is survived by two sisters, Tena Ediger of Henderson, and Elizabeth Kliewer of Dallas, Ore .; three brothers , Peter and wife Esther of Reedley, Calif., Abe and Anne Marie of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Henry and Arlene of Henderson; and two sister-in-Iaws, Pauline Ediger of San Jose, Calif., and Alene Ediger of Henderson.
ENTZ, BARBARA KLEINSASSER WIENS, Hillsboro, Kan. , a member of Parkview MB Church, Hillsboro, was born Feb 2 , 1909, to John A. and Katharina Kleinsasser near Yale, S D ., and died Oct. 18, 1994, at the age of 85 In June 1930 she was married to Henry R. Wiens, who predeceased her in 1969. In September 1974 she was married to Jacob Entz, who predeceased her in 1994. She is survived by two daughters, Judith Wiens and Kathy and husband Paul Epp; one son, DeIbert and wife MarjOrie Wiens; one step-son, Rollo and wife Gretchen Entz; two stepdaughters, Sonja and husband Bruce Gale and Sandra and husband Tim Hubbard; four grandchildren; 10 step-grandchildren; and 14 step-great-grandchildren.
ENTZ, JACOB, Hillsboro, Kan., a member of Parkview MB Church, Hillsboro, was born June 2, 1909, to Jacob and Anna Entz in Beadle County, S D., and died May 31, 1994, at the age of 85. On Sept. 7, 1933, he was married to Kathryn Tschetter, who predeceased him On Sept. 7, 1974, he was married to Barbara Wiens, who died Oct. 18, 1994. He is survived by three children, Rollo and wife Gretchen Entz of Flagstaff, Ariz , Sonja and husband Bruce Gale of San Jose, Costa Rica; and Sandra and husband Tim Hubbard of Olathe, Kan ; three stepchildren, Delbert and wife Marjorie Wiens of Fresno, Calif., Judith Wiens of Wichita , Kan ., and Kathy and hus· band Paul Epp of Hillsboro; and two sisters, Mary Glanzer of Reedley, Calif., and Rebecca Entz of Huron, S D.
FADENRECHT, HERMAN, Ferndale, Wash., a member of Birch Bay MB Church , Blaine, Wash., was born Sept 26, 1909, to Rudolph and Lena Friesen Fadenrecht at Kirk, Colo., and died Feb 3, 1995, at the age of 85. On April 30, 1942, he was married to Frieda Peters, who survives He is also survived by three sons, Kenneth and wife Shirley of Cash· mere, Wash., Alfred and wife Donna of Snohomish, Wash., and Stan and wife Ruth of Eager, Ariz ; one daughter, Mavis and husband Craig Dammarell of Ferndale ; two brothers, George and Leander; 15 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
FAST, MARY HEINRICHS, Wray, Colo., a member of the former Joes (Colo.) MB Church, was born April 18, 1905, at Joes to John P and Mary Heinrichs, and died April 22, 1995, at the age of 90 On Aug. 25,1926, she was married to Cornelius Fast, who survives She is also survived by one son , Walter and wife Lucille Fast of Denver, Colo .; one daughter, Doris and husband Earl Rehor of Yuma, Colo ; one brother, Ed and wife Marie Heinrichs of Clovis, Calif.; two sisters, Charlotte Fast and Esther Fast and husband George; seven grandchildren and 15 greatgrandchildren.
FLAMING, DORA SCHROEDER, Corn, Okla., a member of Corn MB Church, was born April 19, 1906, to Henry and Bertha Nikkel Schroeder at Hillsboro, Kan., and died March 14, 1995, at the age of 89. On Sept. 27, 1931, she was married to Chester Flaming, who predeceased her. She is survived by nieces and nephews.
FRANTZ, HELEN ROGALSKY, Grants Pass, Ore , a member of the Shafter (Calif.) MB Church, was born Feb . 28, 1895, to Herman and Lena Rogalsky in Buhler, Kan , and died April 20, 1995, at the age of 100. In 1917, she was married to Adolf Frantz, who predeceased her in 1986 . She is survived by one son, Robert and wife Julia of Grants Pass; two daughters, Evelyn and husband Arlin Heydon of Redlands, Calif., and June and husband Ray Tyler of Wilmington, Del.; nine grandchil· dren and 15 great-grandchildren.
FRIESEN, MARYANN, Inman, Kan , a member of Zoar MB Church, Inman, was born Jan. 17, 1912, to Peter]. and Mary Siebert Prieb at Buhler, Kan., and died Dec. 1, 1994, at the age of 82. On Sept. 20, 1936, she was mar· ried to Jacob M Friesen, who survives. She is also survived by two daughters, Verleen and husband Abe Baerg of Harwich Port, Ma , and Rosalyn and husband Kenneth Lauer of Blue Springs, Mo.; one son, Loren and wife Jan of Hillsboro ; one sister , Linda Schroeder of Inman; two brothers, Arnold and wife Rose Prieb of Fresno, Calif., and Eldo and wife Erma Prieb of Buhler; nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren
FOOTE, MANUEL, Corn, Okla , a member of Corn M B Church and a charter member of Shelley Ave MB Church in Clinton, Okla.,
the age of 83. On Nov 29 , 1931 , he was married to Adaline, who survives He is also survived by his daughter , Devona Jane ; a daughter-in-Ia w , Eileen ; a sister, Mary Martens; six grandchildren and five great -grandchildren
KlASSEN, KATIE, Adams, Okla., a member of the Adams MB Church, was born July 9, 1907 , to Henry and Marie Martens Schroeder near Adams, and died Feb 20, 1995, at the age of 87. On Dec. 4, 1927, she was married to Johnny Klassen , who predeceased her in 1989 She is survived by three brothers, Waldo and Arthur Schroeder of Guymon, Olda., and Eldo Schroeder and wife Vivian of
BODYLIFE
Adams , Okla .; four sisters -in -law, Adena Friesen, Ruby Klassen, E1ma Klassen, all of Adams, and Verna Schroeder of Guymon ; and "adopted" nephews Sonny and Mark Schroeder of Houston , Tex
KOEHN, ALVIN, Blaine, Wash , a member of Birch Bay MB Church , Blaine , was born Jan 17 , 1918, to Ben and Leah Johnson Koehn in Goltry, Okla ., and died May I, 1995, at the age of 77 On June 2, 1943, he was married to Verna Reimer, who survives . He is also survived by two sons, Conrad and wife Jeanie of Bellingham , Wash , and Keith and wife Amy of Tacoma , Wash .; two daughters, Carol and
POS IT ION ANNOUNCEMENT
D IRECTOR OF COMPUTER SERV I CES
ROLE: The director of computer services is responsible to the business vi ce president for the direction and management of campus computing , including administrative, academic and library systems. The director oversees the purchase, installation and operation of computer hardware , software and telephone equipment.
RESPONSIBI LITIES
• Short and long range planning, including budgetary and computer resource planning for all campus systems
• Develop and implement training program for both mini and mi cro systems users
• Ensure the integrity and security of computer data and systematic mainte nan ce of backup fil es
QUALIFI C ATIONS
Required:
• Master's degree or bachelor's degree with compensating qualifications
• Proficiency in relational data base, sy stems analy sis and current programming languages
• Facility with Unix
• Facility with programming tools and system and operating aids , code and report generators , and data base management
• Progressively respon sible experience in mi cro co mputer systems and LAN network s and Internet services and tools
• Successful experience in managing professional staff and effectively deliv ering departmental service
Desired:
• Doctorate in related field
• Experience in Christian higher education
• Experience with Datatel Benefactor and Colleague, and GEAC
COMPENSATION: Dependent on qualifications and experience Benefits include insurance (medical, LTD, life), retirement (TlAAICREF), Section 125 options, tuition remission for dependents, one month vacation
COL LEGE DESCRIPTION: Fresno Pacific College is an evangelical liberal arts college sponsored by the Mennonite Brethren Church. The college offers the ass ociate of arts , bachelor of art s and master of arts degrees Undergraduates number about 800, and graduate students 750 The college is accredited as a senior college by the We stern Association of Schools and Colleges Fresno Pacific is known for its academic excellence, community environment, and Christian commitment. All employees of the college must be able to support the theological orientation and mission of the college, and express a personal Christian commitment.
APPLICATION: Se nd a letter of appli cation and resume to : Sue Kli ewer, Personnel Director Fresno Pacific College 1717 South C he stnut
Fresno, C A 93702
Phon e : (209 ) 453 -2 245
DEADLINE: Position will remain open until a suitable appli cant is found
Fresno Pa c ific Co llege pro vide s equal oppo rtuni ty f o r employm ent witho ut re gard for ra ce , c%r, national origin , sex, age or handicap
husband Robert Roosma of Lynden, Wash., and Grace and husband Duane Claeys of Be llingham ; fi\Ce brothers , six Sisters, 13 grandc hildren and two great-grandchildren
LOEWEN, DENA KLIEWER, Hillsboro, Kan , a member of Hillsboro MB Church, was born Oct 10, 1905, to Johann and Julianne Penner Kliewer near Hillsboro , and died March 4 , 1995, at the age of89 On June 22,1924, she was married to Jacob A. Loewen, who predeceased her in 1974. She is survived by four c hildren , Ethel and Lowell Hagen, Klaiton Loewen , Connie Hiebert, and Robert and Darlene Loewen; two sisters, Hulda Wiens and Susan and husband Jake Hodel ; three brothers , Arnold and wife Mildred Kliewer, Vernon and wife Diane Kliewer and Nonnan and wife Carol Kliewer; nine grandchildren, nine great -grandchildren and four great -greatgrandc hildren
RATZLAFF, PAUL W., Portland, Ore., a former teacher at Tabor College, Hillsboro,
ApPLICATIONS REQUESTED FOR DIRECTOR OF ADULT MINISTRIES
First Mennonite Brethren Church in Wichita , Kansas, seeks a full-time staff member to help develop our growing ministry with adults Experience in leading adults in personal discipleship and equipping leaders is essential. We are a growing church of over 600 people with strong lay leadership open to cutting edge urban ministry Our Adult Ministry Team includes leaders of Men's, Women's and Older Adult Ministries, with expansion planned to include Small Groups, Young Adults and Outreach . The position requires a master's degree from seminary, or equivalent, and at least five years experience in adult leadership.
Submit resume and references to : Arlan Suderman, Chairman Adult Ministries Search Committee
First Mennonite Brethren Church 8000 w. 21 st Street Wichita, Kansas 67205
FAX : (316) 722 -5931
Complete job descript ion avai la ble upon requ est.
First Mennonite Brethren Churc h
Kan., and Immanuel Academy , Reedley, Calif , was born July 6, 1920, to Aaron H. and Anna Penner Ratzlaff in Com, Okla., and died Feb 8 1995, at the age of 7 4 On May 24, 1942 , he was married to Margaret Franz, who survives. He is also survived by two sons, Duane and wife Connie of Irvine, Calif , and James and wife Vicky of Portland ; three brothers, John of Hillsboro, Barney of Tulsa , Okla , and ElRoy of Pharr, Texas; three sisters, LeOra Grunau of Hillsboro Kan., Bertha Pauls of Reedley, Calif. , and Arlene Flaming of Enid, Okla ; and seven grandchil· dren.
RUBY, DORA PETSCH, Grant. Neb • a memo ber of New Life Fellowship (MB) , Grant, was born Nov 2, 1911, to Frank and Cora F1em· ing Petsch near Wauneta, Neb., and died March 30, 1995, at the age of 83 On Feb 24, 1930, she was married to Clyde Ruby, who predeceased her in 1972. She is survived by one brother, Floyd Petsch of Wauneta, Neb. , and several nephews and nieces
SCHROEDER, ELDO, Adams, Okla., a memo ber of the Adams MB Church, was born May 23, 1915, in Texas County, Okla , to Henry and Marie Martens Schroeder, and died April 15, 1995, at the age of 79. On Nov. 29, 1935, he was married to Vivian Stebens, who sur· vives He is also survived by two brothers, Waldo and Arthur of Guymon. Okla.
SHORT, MARJORIE WRIGHT, Bellingham, Wash , a member of Birth Bay MB Church, Blaine, Wash .• was born Nov 2, 1917, to Henry and Nora MacDonald Wright at Cal· gary, Alta., and died Feb. 19, 1995 , at the age of 7 7 On Jan. 29 , 1939, she was married to Ernest Short who survives. She is also sur·
FAIRVIEW MB CHURCH
of st. CaLharines, Ontario invites applications for SENIOR PASTOR
The successful candidate will have proven pastoral experience. He will love the Lord and have th e ability Lo r e late well with individuals oj all ages Strengths will be in relalionship building ancl pulpit ministry.
Enquiries ancl resumes may be directed to: Search Committee , c/o Hudy Siemens. 455 Geneva SLreet. SL CaLharines. ON L2N 2H2
The Ontario Conference of MB Churches Board of Spiritual & Social Concerns invites prayer, nominations and applications for the position of
ONTARIO CONFERENCE MINISTER
The successfol candidate will be someone who
• deeply loves the Lord and His people
• is gifted by God - to encourage pastors, pastors' families, and church leaders
• will be able to cast spiritual vision
• is experienced as a Mennonite Brethren pastor StIlrting Jate is negotiable
Please submit written resumes to
ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCY C HIEF STUDENT DEVELOPMENT OFFI CER
ROL E: Responsible for leadership and management of coherent Christian student development program, and for coordination of the cocurriculum with the academic program of the college . Primary focus is on traditional aged, residential undergraduate students, with increasing emphasis on commuting, adult and graduate students. The dean of students reports to the academic vice president. Position could be a vice president reporting to the president. depending on qualifications
DUTIES: Directs the student development programs which include counseling and health services. campus and outreach ministries and Christian service programs career development programs, residence life and commuter student programs. leadership training for students involved in the student development program. student government , social activities and orientation. and student discipline. Represents student development to the Academic Cabinet and Faculty Session and is a staff liaison to the Student Development Commission of the Board of Trustees. Also responsible for budget preparation and budget management of the student development programs
QUALIFI CATIONS:
Required:
• Christian commitment and agreement with the doctrinal position of the college. and lifestyle consistent with college standards
• Master's degree in student development or other appropriate field
• Commitment to integration of Christian faith, living and learning in the liberal arts tradition
• Successful experience in student development in a Christian college setting
• Successful administrative experience. 3 year minimum
• Ability to work with ethnic. religious and age diversity
• Understanding of human life span development and its significance for traditional age and nontraditional aged college students
• Ability to work harmoniously with students and faculty colleagues in a liberal arts environment
• Strong interpersonal skills
Desired:
• Earned doctorate
• Member of Mennonite Brethren Church or other believers church
• Experience in a college community reflecting the Anabaptist-Mennonite tradition
STARTING DATE: January I 1996. or sooner
SALARY: Near the mean for type and si ze of institution Health. life and LTD insurance TIAAlCREF retirement option s, 4 weeks vacation moving expenses. tuition wavers.
APPLICATION: Send letter of application and resume to :
Sue Kliewer
Personnel Director
Fresno Pacific College 1717 South Chestnut Fresno CA 93 702
Fre sno Pa c ific Colle ge provides equal opportunity fo r employment without regard for ra ce. color. national o rigin. sex. age or handicap .
John Hiebert, BSSC Chair, 469 Grantham Ave., St. Cathatrines, ON L2M 3J2
nication and marketing needs of MMA. Specific duties will include written communications and publication specialist for Sharing magazine and other newsletters. Qualified candidates need to have either a four-year degree in communications, English or a related field plus four years' professional writing experience or eight years' professional writing experience. Must be competent in editing, project management, and use of WordPerfect and Page Maker software. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. MMA offers an excellent working environment and competitive benefit package. Send resume to: MMA, Human Resources Dept., P.O. Box 483, Goshen, IN 46527.
FOR SALE
GREENWICH VILLAGE, Fresno, Calif. A planned community of 38 lots for retirement living. Buy your lot and have your own home built. $36,000 each. Choice location, adjoining Bethany MB Church For information cali John D. Berg (209) 226-3202.
ASSINIBOINE TRAVEL SERVICE
GROUP TOURS OF CULTURE, HISTORY & FAITH
(20-28 persons)
"Through Layers of Time" (Tour to Western Turkey)
June 11-28, 1995
Host: Dr. James Pankratz (president of Concord College & formerly of MCC) Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Canakkale
Egypt, Israel & Jordan Octooer 16--November 1, 1995
Host: Jake Pauls (Formerly Vice President of Mennonite World Conference) Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, St. Catharines, Aqaba, Amman, Jerusalem, Tiberias Upper Galilee, Tel Aviv
Kenya Safari
January 12-28, 1996
Hosts: Bill & Helen Norrie (Former Mayor of Winnipeg) Nairobi, Lake Nalvasha, Masal Mara Game Reserve, Lake Nakura, Aberdares, Amboselt National Park Tsavo National Park, Mombasa
Italy, Turkey & Greece
April 22-May 10,1996
Host: Dr. Bernie Wiebe (Menno Simons College) Rome, Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, Kusadasi, Sam os, Piraeus, Athens, Nauplia, Olympia, Delphi
For further information, contact: John Schroeder
ASSINIBOINE TRAVEL SERVICE
1317A Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3G OV3
Tel: (204) 775-0271
COLUMBIA BIBLE COLLEGE invites applications for the
position of academic dean
Starting date to be negotiated
The successful candidate, possessing maturity and integrity in his/her spiritual commitment and being in accord with the vision and theology of the College should have demonstrated:
• administrative and relational skills
• leadership abilities
The successful candidate should have appropriate academic training, preferably an earned doctorate.
Desired qualities are:
• an understanding of the Mennonite constituency of British Columbia
• a knowledge of the current educational scene
• significant teaching experience
Deadline for applications is September 30, 1995
Send resume to: Dr. Walter Unger, President, Columbia Bible College, 2940 Clearbrook Road, Clearbrook, BC V2T 2Z8; phone: 604-853-3358; fax: 604-853-3063
CHURCH PARTNERSHIP EVANGELISM (CPE) INVITATION
King Road MB Church in Abbotsford, B.C., is seeking volunteers for its Church Partnership Evangelism outreach to
RUSSIA, Zaporozje, Molotschna, Chortitza, Berjansk June 5-30, 1995
FIJI ISLAND ................................... July 10-28,1995
RUSSIA, Odessa ............................... Aug. 14-31,1995
CANADA, Fraser Valley , Sept. 7-21,1995
PERU, Chiclayo ................................ Oct. 3-19,1995
INDIA, Gadwal area ................... .. ........ Nov. 13-30, 1995
• Team up with national Christians and witness for Christ door to door.
• Some knowledge of the country's language is helpful.
• Each participant must raise or contribute half of the cost, which is $1,500.
• Similar campaigns have resulted in 200 to 400 conversions.
• Come and be part of an enriching spiritual experience, discover what GOD can do through you.
For further information, contact:
Evelyn UnrUh, 604-852-5744 or CPE 604-864-3941
Peter Loewen, 604 -853-3173 or FAX 604-853-6482
Peter Huebert
Missions Committee President
Peter Loewen Promoter
TECHNOLOGY
Satellite training
Once a month, members of six Canadian Mennonite Brethren churches have the opportunity to hear, learn from, and ask questions of some of the North America ' s top Christian speakers How? Through satellite technology. They join other churches at 100 viewing centers linked to the Church Satellite Network (CSN) , the newest division of the Fuller Evangelistic Association for a monthly seminar
Each center must purchase or rent a satellite dish and have an appropriate receiver and television The seminar event with such people as Bill Hybels, pastor of Willow Creek Community Church, is broadcast via satellite. Questions can be transmitted to the speakers using
c,tJ... Pontius' Puddle
pO you S£LI£VS, OUtl CAflAe.rry 'T"O .000 ott. E:VIL.IS GrOVEtlltEO_"
OR. FR.U· "'IL.L
telephone, fax or electronic mail.
As one of the area's largest evangelical congregations, the new role as a CSN learning center has helped position Waterloo , ant ., MB Church as "a regional church, » a leader in training and networking for the evangelical community.
Some 75 churches were represented at the December seminar. Media coverage of the event was phenomenal, according to Brad
EVANGELISM
A crisis conversion
EVEN A LOCKED DOOR didn't stop evangelists from sharing the gospel in Mexico City recently More than 200 people made decisions for Christ during the Mexico City '95 outreach in February. The husband of one woman had locked the door from the outside and left with the key. W orkers spoke loudly through the door of the woman's apartment, and listened through the crack in the door as the woman repented of her sins. "We told her that if we never saw her on earth, we would see her in heaven," said Bob Swank. He and his Mexican coworker, Armenia Carcano Vazquez slid a flattened New Testament underneath the door for the woman.
Klassen . He believes, too , that the uses of a satellite dish perched on the roof or in the backyard of a church , are just beginning to be realized. Global prayer events, evangelistic crusades and seminary training via satellite lie in the future . (MBHerald)
DEVELOPMENT
Investment granted
The Canadian government has approved a grant of $3 8 million (Cdn ) to expand the Russia program of Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA).
This grant, from the Canadian Department of External Affairs, will enable MEDA to develop a business incubator and credit program in Zelenograd, just outside Moscow . The business incubator will be set up to lease space to up to 30 businesses at one time for a period of up to three years.
MEDA has worked with the evolving Russian business environment since 1990, and has be en trying to meet the needs of small and micro-businesses in a variety of ways (MEDA)
WIL.L. 1. DO !Lo",t;THUle.- G-oOD-f>tl£t>EtTI NIln\O,& WfotE'N 1:
CONVERSION
Romanian revival
An estimated 5.5 million Romanians committed their lives to Christ after the airing of four hour-long television specials produced by the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), according to a report in Charisma magazine.
The specials were viewed by about 10.5 million people , and the ministry has received some 80,000 requests for free literature offered at the end of each program.
This number was questioned by Evangelical Press subscribers. CBN says the number is correct, and was obtained by an independent Romanian polling form which asked people whether or not they had prayed to receive Christ while watching the programs . (EP)
STATISTICS
Abortion adjustment
Most Americans tend to overestimate the number of abortions, according to a new survey Acc ording to the Alan Guttmacher Institute, about 28 percent of
F'tlEE'
Please, God, may we laugh?
IN THIS ISSUE we have brought you articles about tears, yet humor is often the natural accompaniment of pain, a tool for coping, a safety valve to ease tensions _ It is important to find both the language of pain and the language of humor. "There is a time to weep and a time to laugh" states the Preacher in Ecclesiastes (3:4). Frederich Buechner writes : "[Laughter] comes from as deep a place as tears come from, and in a way it comes from the sacred place." Both tears and laughter are a gift from God. We need both.
The Jews, a people often targeted for persecution, have developed a humorous mindset to deal with their pain. There is a Jewish saying, "When you're hungry, sing. When you 're hurt, laugh."
Humor represents victory of the brain over fear. When life hits bottom, it takes courage to fmd laughter; looking at the situation with humor
means going against the grain. It allows
evangelicals cannot laugh at themselves because they are not self-aware, not ready for the self-criticism of humor because they live in a grim, grim world.
If we allowed cartoonists open season on evangelicals, or even on us Mennonite Brethren, what would they poke fun at? Could we laugh at a cartoon showing someone measuring the exact depth and temperature of the water used for baptism? Could we handle a cartoon showing MB gladiators, with great relish, finishing off a proponent of women's role in the church?
Having just read again J B. Toews' Pilgrimage of Faith, in which he sends a prophetic message to the Mennonite Brethren, would we recognize ourselves in a cartoon as groupies, chasing the newest evangelical celebrity with the answers regarding church growth?
What about a cartoon about the never-ending evan-
LJwe allowed one to point to the irony of floods com-
gelical quest for a Bright Young Man with a bag of tricks for youth work? As someone has said, if his bag doesn't work in one congregation, he can always pack it up and take it to another one. ing three times to the same place or of someone on an errand of good will suffer- cartoonists open ing an accident. One writer suggests the season on preacher's comment in Ecclesiastes is better translated, "All is irony, all is evangelicals, or even irony, " instead of "All is vanity."
When is humor appropriate? The on us Mennonite best humor brings out truth. Humor for humor's sake is empty, vacant. Bad taste is never funny. Most laugh tracks and
In this computer age, some cartoonist would be sure to spot the modem evangelical tendency to develop itemized prayer lists for distribution to keep prayer organized and tidy instead of it being the essence of a relationship with God. Is Brethren, what would prayer important? Of course, but in real life, is it as orderly as these lists expect?
many situation comedies are an insult to they poke fun at? the human intelligence. I like the comic strips "For Better or Worse" and "Calvin and Hobbes" because they are perceptive about truths about family life and relationships. Humor never distorts truth, but it can help to dethrone sacred cows from their earthly pedestals.
Faith without humor leads to dogmatism and self-righteousness, writes Conrad Hyer. James M. Gillis adds that "Whom the gods would make bigots, they fu-st deprive of humor." The corollary to this is that pomposity in high places breeds balloonbursters in low ones.
Cartoonists make fun of physical characteristics, like Richard Nixon's ski-slope nose and Ross Perot's big ears. But this is laughing at something a person can't change. Real humor targets some human weakness or unpleasantness that can be changed if the person would only look closer.
In this issue, Marvin Hein talks about the mean attacking streak that has crept into society, knocking down, demeaning, to arrive at truth. Some people see a weakness in someone else's thinking and go for the jugular. Evangelicals are not exempt. Someone has suggested that
In Margaret Atwood's futurist novel, A
Handmaid's Tale, she describes computerized prayer which allows the credit card user to punch buttons to choose prayers. Confession software for Catholics has already been developed with penances all figured out, although I'm not sure it's been churchapproved. Why not computerized prayer software for evangelicals as well? Think of how many more prayers would be said. Is that funny, ironic or sad?
With the evangelical tendency to slide toward the glitzy glamor of celebrities (check the front cover of any nationwide evangelical popular magazine or television show), would a cartoon showing Joseph and a pregnant Mary in a golf cart toodling along toward Bethlehem tell us anything about ourselves? He's dressed in walking shorts, sunglasses and has a videocamera slung over one shoulder (Wouldn't want to miss the big event ahead) . Mary sports a bleached blonde perm, fashion sunglasses, red-tipped nails and a Weight Watchers totebag.
The language of pain and the language of humor can be learned side by side by God's grace Dear God, teach us to laugh before the grimness of life overcomes us and we turn to attacking.-KFW
