ON THE anniversary of his death, the contributions of composer and performer Rich Mullins were highlighted in a special broadcast by a Wichita, Kan., Christian radio stations. Mullins had lived in Wichita for several years and was on his way to Kansas when he was killed in a traffic accident. Listening to Mullins describe his faith and his understanding of the church, I was reminded again how much the insights of others help me understand what it is to be a Christ-follower.
Just as the words of a song and the testimony of its author can encourage and challenge us in our faith, so too can the ideas we share with one another in the pages of our denominational magazine.
Our feature articles this month focus on the ministry of the local church. The first article by former Leader editor Wally Kroeker offers insight into the similarities and differences between a local church and a business. He says the work of the church is not confined to the walls of a building.
While researching volunteerism, staff writer Natalee Roth learned that sharing the purpose of an activity and appropriately using an individual's talents are just two ways to ease the task of securing volunteer workers. Other recruitment tips are shared in her article on page six.
Many of us have found parenting help in classes sponsored by local congregations and taught via video by Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo. Pastor Ken McDuff encourages us to apply the Ezzos' methods with a "generous portion of common sense and parental affection" to avoid three dangers he has identified in the "Growing Kids God's Way" curriculum.
Our news section takes a look at congregations using Halloween as an opportunity for family fun and outreach. We highlight Grace Bible Church of Gettysburg, S.D., as a church on the growing edge. We introduce you to two Mennonite Disaster Service volunteers, a Fresno Pacific College program for adults with special needs, and review the three fall district conventions.
The Leader is a body-building tool. We hope the pages of this issue challenge and encourage you this month. --CF
COMING
• OCTOBER 3-NOVEMBER 1 - Southern District Conference regional rallies:
OCTOBER 3 - Garden City, Kan.
OCTOBER 4 - Hillsboro, Kan.
OCTOBER 10 - Corn, Okla.
OCTOBER 11 - Edmond, Okla.
NOVEMBER 1 - Denver, Colo.
• OCTOBER 29-30 - General Conference consultation, Calgary, Alta.
• NOVEMBER 6-7 - Pacific District Conference convention, Dinuba, Calif ; celebration ofWMS 50th anniversary.
• NOVEMBER 6-8 - Central District Conference convention, Lustre, Mont.
Sometimes the church and a business have more in common than we realize We shortchange God when we try to confine the work of the church to congregational matters. BY
Solving the volunteer puzzle
Resu lts of a Leader survey on volunteerism in the local church show that understanding spir itual gifts and restructuring programs are key to recruiting volu nteers BY NATALEE ROTH
9 Why 'Growing Kids God's Way' might not work
Winning our children's hearts for God is a key principle of this popular but controversial parenting curriculum. But outward compliance does not necessarily reflect a heart that is faithful to Christ. BY
KEN MCDUFF
DEPARTMENTS
• Invasion at the breakfast table
• Young vs old?
• Pastors and the presidential crisis On the Journey. by
• M ission trip worth the cost
• Halloween : Church parties are all treat, no trick 18
• PROFILE: Grace Bible Church 20
• District convention preview 22
• Civil war continues in Congo 23
• Neufelds serve with MDS 24
• Commentary: Loving the embassy bombers 24
• FPU hosts special programs for special people 26
• Church notes 28
• Deaths 28
ART CREDITS: Cover , Diane Ste iner , Print Sou rce Di rect; page 4 , Ed Wa ll ow itch ; page 6, Orley Friesen ; pages 9 and 11 , Ji m Whitmer Photog raphy; page 18, line art by Dynam ic Graphics, photo court esy Buhler (Kan ) MB Church ; page 19, Buhle r MB Church ; pages 20 and 21 , Grace Bib le Chu rch; page 24, Mennon ite Cen t ral Commi tt ee ; page 24, Menno n ite D is aster Se rv ic e; page 26 , Fresno Paci f ic Uni versity ; page 28 , Tabor College
VOLUME 61, NUMBER 10
BOARD OF COMMUNICATIONS: Kathy Heinrichs Wiest, chair; Peggy Goertzen, Phil Neufeld, Dalton Reimer, Herb Schroeder.
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You'll find the church everywhereeven in business.
BY WALLY KROEKER
When is the church like a business? More often than we think.
Most congregations have a business meeting. They have budgets. In many churches, or denominations, nothing is really certain until the budget has passed.
Like a business, the church hires and fires. It downsizes. It frees up the future of its leaders who no longer have the support of the shareholderserr, members.
Many members vote with their dollars When it comes to supporting a denominational program they may talk of "taking ownership" and getting a "return on investment."
Sometimes the church and business try to imitate each other. A few years ago bookstands
bulged with books about reinventing the corporation. The church must have liked something about that. Now you can find many pastors reading books on "Reinventing the Congregation."
Sadly, business and the church both have scandals. The world of business has insider-trading and mining disasters. The Christian community can blush over the New Era scam.
Both the church and business have a "product" (or service) and a "clientele" (or audience). When people move to a new area they go "church shopping," hence the term "supermarket Christianity."
Whether in church or in business, if the product falls short, many will walk. An unhappy customer may say "I'm not being satisfied." A disgruntled church member might say, "I'm not being fed." The meaning is the same.
Some churches and some businesses can think only of growth and expansion. Some businesses are obsessed with profit. Some churches, too, see their prime aim as growth, as if the church were a giant pyramid scheme -a company with a huge sales force but no manufacturing department
Pastors and CEOs
Some pastors are known for having an executive style. A pastor who is a dynamic, energetic leader and strives for measurable goals might be described as a "CEO pastor." Church leaders complain that an "employer/employee" attitude has crept into the church. Pastors talk more openly than they used to about salary and benefits. They won't, however, describe themselves as "hired." They still prefer to be "called." But when their services are abruptly terminated they feel "fired" like anyone else.
There are times when pastors would like to be treated like CEOs, such as when a church decides to uncall them. They envy the golden handshake given to many departing CEOs.
CHURCH LIFE
The best CEOs, like the best pastors, are servant leaders. They get things done by serving others and empowering them. They know how to bring out the best in people.
Good pastors, like good CEOs, share leadership. They know how to delegate and share responsibility rather than do it all themselves.
How else might CEOs be like pastors? They should see their work as an assignment from God. Wouldn't it be great if CEOs - and all the people they work with - could say without blushing that they were "called" to their work? And that their church commissioned them for this work?
Place of refuge
Both church and business can be a place of refuge, a safe port in a time of storm Throughout history the church has been a place of sanctuary where people could feel safe.
A company can be a place of refuge. Garry Loewen tells the story of when he was an executive with a large corporation During a financial crunch many years ago senior staff were being encouraged to take an early retirement incentive package One of Loewen's frontline supervisors, a man named Robert, was ready to take the buyout. But Loewen knew that Robert's wife was dying of cancer. Loewen called Robert into his office and advised him not to take the buyout package . He told him, "You know there is going to be a lot of upheaval in your life in the next few months and you are going to need some sources of stability. Let this company be one of those sources."
Loewen says , "After his wife died Robert and his children were enormously grateful for that advice ." On this occasion, a large corporate entity had been a source of personal stability and refuge for a man stricken with grief.
Community of caring
Max De Pree, a Christian writer who was no slouch in businesses when he was a CEO, says a well-run business should be like a community, a community of caring where people can work together in harmony to make products that serve their neighbors.
We are not accustomed to regarding the church and business in the same breath Yet, the church is more like a business than it might want to admit
Maybe that's good Maybe we need a reminder that the church, the body of Christ, doesn't fit easily into stereotypical molds. It's just too big, too diverse, too myst ical, too grand.
It is so broad in its reach that it covers the entire spectrum of the human spirit, even our places of work. "There are different kinds of gifts," says the Apostle Paul, "but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all people" (1 Cor 12 :4-6).
The body of Christ is such a curious creationgloriously transcendent, full of majesty and possibilities, yet also present in something so ordinary as daily work, something so secular as a business. That is the mystery of the Incarnation.
Where God dwells
When Solomon dedicated the temple he prayed, "But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you How much less this temple I have built!" (1 Kings 8:27)
Paul said in his speech to the Athenians, "The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands" (ACts 17:24).
We shortchange God when we try to confine the work of the church to congregational matters. Wendell Berry has written :
"The Bible gives exhaustive (and sometimes exhausting) attention to the organization of religion: the building and rebuilding of the Temple; its furnishings; the orders, duties, and paraphernalia of the priesthood; the orders of rituals and ceremonies
"But that does not disguise the fact that the most significant religious events recounted in the Bible do not occur in 'temples made with hands.' The most important religion in that book is unorganized and is sometimes profoundly disruptive of organization
"From Abraham to Jesus, the most important people are not priests but shepherds, soldiers, property owners, workers , housewives, queens and kings, manservants and maidservants, fishermen, prisoners, whores, even bureaucrats
"The great visionary encounters did not take place in temples but in sheep pastures, in the desert, in the wilderness, on mountains, on the shores of rivers and the sea, in the middle of the sea, in prisons."
We can find the church in the strangest places
And sometimes it'll surprise us by the company it keeps. •
Wally Kroeker is the editor o/The Marketplace, the Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) publication He and his wife attend River East MB Church, Winnipeg, Man.
oun uzz
BY NATALEE ROTH
Finding the right volunteer joreach church ministry vacancy
can bea puzzling task
Jenna and Tom are members of large MB Church in Anytown, USA They love their church and try to get involved when they can. But they both work and what little free time the family has is consumed by their two children's extracurricular activities.
When lisa, the church Christian education director, calls asking Jenna to teach the kindergarten Sunday school class, Jenna feels she can't possibly say yes She's exhausted when she comes home from work and then there are all the family activities When would she have time to prepare a Sunday school lesson each week? And Tom refuses to consider volunteering to teach because he knows he's not good with kids.
loretta has attended Small MB Church since she got married 40 years ago . She loves her church just as much as Jenna and Tom do and has an equally hard time volunteering. When her five children were younger loretta taught Wednesday night Bible classes - for 25 years, in fact
But now she finds she can't relate to the kids in the church, so she always declines when she's asked to volunteer to teach. Besides, she did her time when her kids were young - now it's someone else's turn. Many of loretta's friends feel the same The trouble is, the church is so small and the younger people find themselves carrying the full load of responsibility for ministry in the church.
The attitudes of lenna, Tom and Loretta are common in our congregations, say pastors . People aren't volunteering like they used to . And without volunteers, the body of Christ can't minister to Christians and seekers effectively. Without volunteers, Sunday school programs don't survive Without volunteers, the choir loft remains empty. And without volunteers, newcomers may not receive a warm gree ting at the church door Churches need
meet all the needs in the church by
A recent Christian Leader survey on the state of volunteerism in Mennonite Brethren churches reveals that in general, pastors and Christian education directors find it difficult to recruit volunteers. This trend holds true even in congregations that enjoy a relatively high volunteer spirit. Churches that have seen an increase in volunteers have found that restructuring programs and implementing training seminars are key to recruiting their volunteers.
Several survey respondents say that churchgoers' priorities have changed and church is no longer at the top - or even the middle - of the list for many people Pastors find that people tend to volunteer only when convinced the task is worthwhile or will benefit them personally.
Regardless of location and size , many Mennonite Brethren congregations struggle to recruit volunteers and respond to the lack of volunteers in a number of ways As a last resort, some volunteer-run programs have become extinct, victims of burnout and busy schedules
volunteers because the pastor, even with a staff, can't
himself.
Recruiting and keeping volunteers
Serving in the church can be rewarding, say pastors. Volunteers experience spiritual growth as they minister when they see volunteering not just as filling a position but as serving the Lord Helping people see their asSignment as ministry rather than a job begins during the recruitment process. Our survey respondents offer these tips for recruiting volunteers .
• Ask people personally to volunteer
• Make expectations clear.
• Make sure tasks that require volunteers are worthwhile.
• Offer coteaching positions so volunteers are guaranteed time off
• Shorten terms of service to seasonal or quarterly commitments
• Present skits or testimonies to the congregation to show how lives are changed as a result of certain ministries.
• Offer support through networks of volunteers. can encourage each other and share tips.
• Send notes of encouragement to volunteers . Recognize them.
• Keep the vision of the ministry alive . Evaluate annually why volunteers do what they do
• Give volunteers a say in the ministry Promote a sense of lay leadership and involvement
• Consider offering a training seminar.
Changing the way volunteers are recruited can make volunteer experiences more positive and programs more effective .
Cleobeth Friesen, the Christian education director at Parkview MB Church in Hillsboro, Kan. , says she rarely asks for volunteers from the pulpit . Instead, she requests prayer from the congregation as the department looks for volunteers
"We try to consider people's gifts and encourage them to volunteer where we think they fit best," she says.
Friesen says "advertising" the results of what's happening in the programs helps people see the benefits of various ministries and see what the Lord is doing in lives of people "I think if they see [the results 1, maybe they will b e more willing to undertake being part of it," she says.
James Mason, pastor of adult ministries at Topeka (Kan .) MB, approaches the idea of recruiting volunteers from a different angle "If I really went after it, I could get 'volunteers ' to carry out
ministry tasks, " he says "However, I feel that this is not what the church should be doing " Instead, Mason believes the church should focus on making disciples. Mason believes pastors should not start programs unless people who are gifted and called to the task are available.
"Our church - and the Church - is still working on developing and moving toward this concept," says Mason "Perhaps where we need advice should be more directed toward what it means to make disciples than on how to recruit volunteers "
Restructuring the church
The Westport MB congregation in Collinsville, Okla , has made changes in their church structure in order to accommodate their increasingly busy schedules and to revitalize their interest in service Pastor David Froese says the church is 85 years old and until recently was a structured and constitution-driven organization The ministries have reflected this.
"I think we limit people instead of freeing them to serve because we put too many parameters around them," he says "There are a lot of people who experience burnout because maybe they don ' t know how to get out of a ministry they've been in for a long time."
Froese believes people may volunteer for certain ministries because they. feel obligated when the ministry is not in the person's area of giftedness. Thus the person doesn't find joy in ministering.
"We're trying to tackle this from a number of standpoints ," he says. "One is that we're changing our structure . We are limiting the number of people that are elected for longer terms." Only elder board members and commission chairs are in office for three-year terms. All other volunteers are recruited on a shortterm basis Volunteers may continue in a certain ministry as long as the ministry is fulfilling and enjoyable to them.
Everyone who is recruited or volunteers for a position is encouraged to go through a seminar called "Discover My Ministry " Froese has adapted material from Saddleback Valley Community Church in Lake Forest, Calif., for use at his church "[In the seminar] we help people understand th e ir spiritual giftedness , passion, abilities, person-
ality and experiences to uniquely prepare them for ministry," says Froese.
The seminar includes a personality questionnaire and an evaluation of the person's experiences and spiritual gifts. Participants then receive a personal profile which helps them determine where they can best serve
Froese says, "If you serve in areas in which you're not particularly gifted or for which you don't have a passion, you ' ll bum out. You'll get frustrated." He has offered the seminar for about one year and says it has helped people say "'no" to volunteering for excessive activities. It has opened people's eyes to ministries of which they'd like to be a part.
Rosedale Bible Church in Bakersfield, Calif., is also addressing volunteer burnout through a training seminar. Pastor Steve Fast says, "Instead of looking at slots that need to be filled in the church, we're taking a different look, and we're starting with people."
He believes churches have created slots that people don't fit into, and then people end up feeling unfulfilled in their ministry. "So we're trying to do it the other way around," he says, "to help people discern how God has designed them so that when we plug people into a certain area of miniStry, they'll feel good about it and probably stick with it longer ."
Fast says this newfound enthusiasm for volunteering comes from a curriculum called "Network," developed by Willow Creek Resources and published by Zondervan. It is a national program designed to help people understand their spiritual gifts and the way God has made them Fast has led the eight-session seminar twice and plans to lead another one this fall.
"It's a very practical evaluation that helps people understand how God has designed them so they can serve," he says. He says more people have volun-
c..tfJ... Pontius' Puddle
teered in the church since he started the seminar. Following the seminar, each participant goes through a personal evaluation that helps them discern areas in the church in which they might like to serve. The curriculum includes an audio cassette, so people could go through the seminar on their own. But Fast leads the group, which has had about 20 participants each time. He says the interaction and sharing is helpful for the participants
So what about Jenna, Tom and Loretta?
Recently Jenna and Tom went through a training seminar their church offered for potential leaders Jenna decided she could volunteer to teach for just a quarter and that seems more manageable to her Now she's excited to work with the kindergartners And Tom discovered teaching a children's class isn't his only service optionhe's begun using his skills in electronics to improve the church sound system. He enjoys the work and he feels part of the church when he can minister in this way
Loretta recently learned about a support network the Christian education department at Small MB Church is starting for teachers. Her wealth of ideas and encouraging spirit has made her a valuable mentor, so she's started attending the monthly meetings. The teachers appreciate her ideas and Loretta feels like she's contributing to the ministry.
Natalee Roth is editorial assistant at the Christian Leader and a 1998 graduate of Tabor College. She researched and wrote this article as part of her journalism internship with the Leader this past year. For the record, Natalee is a volunteer junior high sponsor this fall at Parkview MB Church in Hillsboro.
might ds God's Way' not work
This popularbut controversialChristian parenting program might produce II good II kids outwardly, but what about their hearts?
BY KEN MCDUFF
tion for Parenting, have been taught in nearly 4,000 churches over the past 10 years. The Ezzos' organization, Growing Families International, has provided resources to 400,000 families, representing more than a million children . As the first wave of children grown "God's way" approach adolescence, it's a good time to evaluate the fruits of the GKGW parenting style
1evor poked his triumphant, beaming face into my office. "It works!" he exclaimed. Trevor's one-month-old boy was sleeping through the night, and he wanted me to know that the techniques taught by Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo in their popular-but-controversial parenting program, Growing Kids God's Way (GKGW), had been successful.
But successful at what? Too often we judge a parenting style by its immediate results. What can we expect, though, when "Ezzo babies" - as they're sometimes called - grow up?
GKGW and its related curriculum, Prepara-
GKGW methods, practiced consistently, do seem to produce "good" kids - they obey their parents, they're generally polite and respectful, and they're well-behaved (particularly in their parents' presence). But, as with any parenting style, there are dangers in applying GKGWs tenets without generous portions of common sense and parental affection
Consider three potential dangers
Danger #1: PARENTS MOTIVATED BY SELF-INTEREST
The GKGW philosophy is parent-centered . The Ezzos warn that too much parental attention and sacrifice makes for a child who's self-centered and ill-prepared for real life. They encourage parents to resist placing their kids at the center of family life The child must be taught quickly that the world does not revolve around him; otherwise, they say,
the child "will develop a self-centered perception that will carry into every relationship."
In practice, a parent-centered philosophy translates too easily into parenting goals conceived out of selfishness . Though parents (including me) don't like to admit it, we often have hidden motives behind our parenting tactics . We want to look good to our friends; we want to be unbothered by our child's activity So we require our children to behave in certain ways - not for their benefit, but for ours .
But God's parenting pattern is sacrificial.
responsive toward his kids)." When parents fail to conSistently respond to a child's earliest needs so that their lifestyle can be preserved, the second danger can result.
Danger #2: KIDS WHO NEVER LEARN TO TRUST
When my wife gave birth to our first child, our primary goal was to create in our daughter a sense of trust and security - a feeling that she didn't face life alone. We responded to her cries quickly and consistently, with as much wisdom as firsttime parents could muster . For a season, we altered our lifestyle to accommodate her needs. We were always nearby - and we didn't fret about spoiling her or being manipulated.
Author Kevin Huggins -a 20-year veteran youth leader, now a professor of Christian counseling at Philadelphia College of the Bible - reminds us in Parenting Adolescents, "C hrist ' s death was his profound expression of self-denial and self-saCrifice, the same elements a parent must express if he is According to the Ezzos, that's not God's way. to be relationally mature (highly involved with and Children need to learn to cope with life's difficul-
Ezzos say do it by the Book
Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo claim that their parenting advice is based on God 's Word and that complicates things.
First-time pare nts searching for help on surviving sleepless nights with their newborn as well as veteran parents looklng for an alternative to popular parenting advice that makes children the center of their family 's universe are increasingly lOOking to Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo for help
For more than a decade now, the conservative Christian couple has been offering their step-by-step , cradle-to-thedorm set of instructions for how to parent The Ezzos figure that their church-based child-rearing courses - Growing Kids God's Way, along with Preparation for Parenting, Preparation for the Toddler Years, and Reaching the Heart of Your Teenager - are now taught in about 3,500 churches worldwide and that their core course, GKGW, reaches 65,000 to 70,000 parents in a week.
Add to this the booming sales enjoyed by their secular books and it's plain to see that the number of "Ezzo babies" is growing The popularity of On Becoming Babywise and On Becoming Babywise II, the mainstream bookstore counterpart tOPreparationfor Parenting, has landed coauthors Gary Ezzo and Colorado pediatrician Robert Bucknam in the company of other best-selling baby authors like Dr William Sears and Penelope Leach.
But despite such apparent popularity, GKGW is also controversial Questions have been raised in pubUcations as diverse as Christianity Today and The Wall StreetJoumal
BY CONNIE FABER
More than 100 doctors, nurses and other health professionals have signed a "Letter of Concern" addressed to the American Academy of Pediatrics urging a review of the GKGW curriculum. Focus on the Family has criticized the curriculum and the elder board at Grace Community Church , where Ezzo once was associate pastor, has issued a public statement disavowing any affiliation with GKGW and its parent organization, Growing Families International
Advice concerning infants is the most controversial part of the GKGW program Critics maintain that the Ezzos advocate a style of parenting that overemphasizes control and diSCipline at the expense of parental intuition and compassion Critics say the Ezzos make claims - including medical ones that can't be backed up - and deal in generalities that can't be applied to all children and parents .
The Ezzos teach parents to schedule their baby's sleep time, playtime and mealtime Instead of feeding babies when they are hungry (on demand), the Ezzos promote feeding newborns every three hours Hospitals across the country have noted cases in which in.funts whose mothers used Ezzo 's program were diagnosed with "failure to thrive, " a label given to babies who are not gaining weight adequately
Calls from pediatricians and emergency-room physicians prompted the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Orange County to extensively study GFI materials. "We
ties, they assert, away from their parents. By practicing what the Ezzos call "attachment parenting," my wife and I were "fostering an emotional disability we (Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam, coauthors of On Becoming Babywise) call me-ism."
But others disagree "To an infant," responds Huggins, "every desire seems crucial .... When these desires are not immediately fulfilled by the infant's primary caretakers, he experiences his first relational disappointment. This disappointment arouses within him a tendency to mistrust the abilities and intentions of his parents to give him what is vital for his existence He develops his first real problem in thinking:
'If I'm going to feel safe and secure, I must do something to get my world to respond to me
As a GKGW child grows, how can she gain the approval that she desires? That leads us to the third danger.
Danger #3:
KIDS WHO WIN APPROVAL BY THEIR GOOD BEHAVIOR
GKGW promotes high parental control. Parents are encouraged to be "governors" in their children's lives until children develop the self-control and moral awareness that allows self-government Certain behaviors are expected, and GKGW parents are quick to force conformity when necessary. The Ezzos contend that the Holy Spirit will eventually take over building on those established patterns of compliant behavior. They call it "spiritual inertia."
Critics see little difference between what the Ezzos advocate and behaviorism - the use of nega-
established six criteria for health parenting education," says committee cochair Colleen Weeks in a February interview with Cbristianity Today, "and our committee concluded that the GFI materials met none of those standards ." GFI is based in Chatsworth , Calif.
While Anne Marie Ezzo encourages GKGW leaders to urge parents to be flexible , some adherents seem to ignore her - maybe because the program claims to be based on biblical principles that are hard to compromise Critics note that even the progratn' s tide suggests that the Ezzos' methods are God 's methods and therefore any other method is wrong
The Grace Community Church statement supports this assessment: "Portraying scheduled feeding as the true biblical practice , GFI strongly implies that demand feeding should be regarded as an unbiblical humanistic - even sinful - approach to caring for infants . As elders, we see no biblical basis for dogmatism on this issue ."
Focus on the Family cites the Ezzos ' "misuse of biblical texts " as a "cause for serious concern ." Focus points out
that the Ezzos repeatedly cite Matthew 27 :46 (where Jesus cries out from the cross "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?") in support of their teaching that mothers should refuse to attend to crying infants who have already been fed, changed and had their basic needs met Focus says, "We see no way to make such an application of this verse without completely disregarding its original context and purpose ."
In most cases, the Ezzos decline to respond to their critics However, GFI's web site includes testimonies and newspaper articles featuring people whose family lives have been improved as a result of GKGW curriculum Articles point out that the curriculum provides practical advice. For example, it suggests that children not be allowed to begin eating dinner until whoever prepared the meal sits down
"We ' re just dispensing some pretty good commonsense advice," Gary Ezzo told the Wall Street Journal in February "If this thing was so seriously flawed as the opposition would say, then you have to ask yourself, 'Why is it so successfu1?'"
GKGW critics acknowledge that amid the ideas they consider misleading or dangerous can be found much sound advice and many helpful ideas Nevertheless, GKGW adherents may want to consider the advice from Focus on the Family: "The Ezzos' plan has much to offer, but may not necessarily be the last or best word on parenting "
SoURCI!S:
"The Brave New Christianity Today , Aug 16, 1993
"Growing Criticism: Groups Back Away from Preparation for Parenting," Christianity Today , Feb 9 , 1998
"The Ezzos Sell Parents Some Tough Advice ", 1be WaH StreetJour· nal, Feb 17. 1998
"The Ezzos Know Best," World , May 25IJ une 1, 1996
tive reinforcement (spanking, handslapping, "time outs," and so on) to bring about desired behaviors.
Of course, what parent doesn't use some form of behavioristic technique? Why not? It "works." Research studies reveal that firm and consistent parental control is associated with positive outcomes, especially when mixed with generous amounts of parental warmth.
But when parents withhold warmth and involvement, they can still get their kids to comply . Because the Ezzos' materials habitually prefer the word "parenting" to "love," they leave the door open for parents to use the strategies mechanically.
Now what happens when these compliant but emotionally unengaged kids move into adolescence? Teenagers experience sudden and drastic changes, not only in physical appearance but also in how they perceive and relate to their world. They question what they must do to be loved and to have impact on their world.
If their compliance flows from a desire to win others' approval and acceptance rather than faithfulness to Christ, the demands and struggles of adolescence can lead a young person into new, unexpected behaviors. These behaviors may take the form of greater, even compulsive, efforts to obey. But if a young person starts to believe i1is actions can never be good enough he may turn to rebellious acts and defiance to signal his internal struggle.
HEARTS TOWARD GOD
What can you do to help a teenager whose outward compliance may not reflect a heart that's inclined toward God?
• Watch for "signal behaviors" that indicate internal frustrations. If a teenager's strategy for winning love, security, and impact by being compliantly good fails, she may resort to "signal behaviors" such as compulsiveness, rule-breaking, defiant acts, or disregarding a parent's instructions. Think of it as an S.O.S. It's a time when a young person needs a friend to help her explore what's going on deep within. If she doesn't get help, destructive behaviors may follow.
• Help parents reflect on their parenting styles and goals. Parents are the primary influencers of their children, even in adolescence. Too often, though, they fail to understand the struggles their children face. You can help parents reflect on the
effects of their parenting style and provide insight on what their teenagers are doing, thinking, and feeling - and why. An excellent resource is Parenting Adolescents by Kevin Huggins (NavPress, 1989), also available as a small-group video series.
• Help teenagers understand that only Christ can meet their need for relational fulfillment. Proverbs 19:22 reveals that "what a man desires is unfailing love."
Teenagers' self-sufficient strategies and behaviors are foolish attempts to gain dependable, unconditional love -a love that'll never be fully met in any human relationship, only in God's lOving-kindness. When a compliant young person wonders why his compliance doesn't bring the relationships he desires, point him to the One who'll love him regardless of his failed efforts at goodness.
When kids start to see they can't satisfy their deepest desires for love and acceptance by molding themselves to what others demand - that's when they're most open to Christ's love. Help them to talk about their hearts' desires, then to find fulfillment in relationship to the living God. By the way, my daughter, Karisa, is 15 now. She loves God and cares deeply about others, especially the underdogs of the world . Her heart is reflected in her life's goal: to be a missionary. A dad couldn't be more pleased with his daughter. Don't get me wrong - Karisa's not perfect, and neither are her parents. But God has established broad boundaries for successful parenting.
"Scripture has very few specific mandates It provides the spiritual goals of parenting, but not exact or specific how-to's "
These words of Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo, found in the first chapter of Preparation for Parenting, should remind us that those responsible for the spiritual nurture of our youth - parents and youth workers alike - must continually evaluate and refine their methods, depending more on God's grace than their own expertise and ingenuity. That's God's way.
•
Ken McDuff is an associate pastor offamily ministries at Laurelglen Bible Church in Bakersfield, Calif. He wrote this article at the request of Group Magazine. This article has been reprinted by permission from Group Magazine, copyright 199 7. Group Publishing, Inc., Box 481, Loveland, CO 80539.
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Invasion at the breakfast table
THE HEADLINES have been ugly lately. Press reports of scandals in the White House rival those fabricated ones you see in the grocery check-out line It's almost getting embarrassing to read the newspaper.
My morning routine has changed a bit as a result. Before I toss the paper on the kitchen table I check the headlines Is this something I want our daughters reading when they step into the kitchen this morning? Am I ready to deal with the questions those stories will raise? Before 7 a .m.? Lately the answer has been no. Frustrated, I pull out the business section to lay on top of the front page.
How dare the people in power invade my home with their messes. There's more to my frustration than just sheltering my daughters from the seamier side of life in this world. The fact is, I would just as soon not know about it myself. Life would be so much simpler if we as Christians could live in a little bubble, ignorant and uncontaminated. We could float aloft, above the world and its degrading activities.
That's how it looked to me as we vacationed in Pennsylvania last fall. We visited the Amish country. The peaceful clip-clop of the horses pulling Amish buggies down the winding roads rang true in my heart. Pursue the simple life with a focus on the basics. Just do your house and farmwork. Mind your own business. Don't get entangled with the world and its ugly headlines. That is how life should be.
Or should it? Or even can it?
In his book After the Fire, Randy Michael Thesta documents the encroachment of society on the Amish. Tourism is making a spectacle of the
Forum is a column of opinion and comment on contemporary issues facing the Mennonite Brethren Church. Manuscripts for Forum should aim for a length of 800 words. Authors must sign articles, identify their church membership and vocation, and include a clear photo of themselves.
BY KATHY HEINRICHS WIEST
Maybe even my own desire to live above the messiness of the world is really a temptation to make my life more comfortable. Maybe I just don't want to be bothered with the troubles of the world.
simple people. Residential and commercial developments are squeezing the Amish farms and threatening their way of life with new regulations.
Some of the Amish are seeing the big money to be made, reducing their convictions to a saleable tourist commodity. Others are realizing large profits from the sale of their land to developers without regard for the impact on their neighbors. Tensions have arisen in the Amish community over whether and how their way of life should be maintained.
The romance of the horses and buggies gives way to real people dealing with real problems. Inside those buggies are human beings that face the same weaknesses and temptations we all do. Temptations for greed, for power, for self-indulgence.
We all- politiCian, Amish farmer, middle manager or housewife - have a penchant for sin. We all are inclined to do what gives us pleasure and satisfaction, no matter the consequences to ourselves or others. Paul says it well in Romans 8 :18: "For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the wishing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not."
It makes me wonder. Maybe even my own desire to live above the messiness of the world is really a temptation to make my life more comfortable. Maybe I just don't want to be bothered with the troubles of the world. I want my life as neat and orderly as an Amish farm yard. Each thing in its place, the drive swept free of debriS, the tidy little garden I want it just so. It's more comfortable that way. It makes me feel happy to look out on my world and see that all is well.
But I'm behaving no differently than the people who find other ways to make themselves feel good - flaunting
their positions of power, amassing wealth to give them a sense of worth, violating marriage vows for personal gratification. Each is just a different route to the same goal of pleasing the self.
God forgive me for thinking myself above the fray. Give me compassion for those entrapped by sin, knowing that what I see in them is only a more public expression of my own self-centeredness. Help me overcome my selfish inclination to withdraw into a neat and tidy existence. Send me into the messy world, a bold witness to your grace and forgiveness.
Kathy Heinrichs Wiest is a member of Kingsburg (Calif) MB Church and a free-lance writer. This article first appeared in her church newsletter.
Pontius' Puddle
BY PHILIP WIEBE
Intentionally unintentional
In some ways we have far too much purpose, which fills our calendars to the margins and prevents us from enjoying the moment.
SOMEONE ONCE questioned the late cartoonist and social commentator, Walt Kelly, creator of the "Pogo" comic strip, about the nature of his work. Perhaps thinking of Kelly's satirical style and art's power to influence society, the inquirer asked: What was Kelly's "higher purpose" in drawing "Pogo"?
Without hesitation, Kelly replied, "To have fun and make money."
1 love that answer. Clearly Kelly did have a "higher purpose" in skewering the political and social absurdities of his day - but he didn't let it go to his head. That's probably why his work was so fresh and entertaining. There was a message, sure, but equally important was the fact that it was fun.
I've been thinking about that lately in the wake of widespread use of the word "intentional." It seems to be a buzzword of sorts. Over the past year I have been urged to be more intentional in several areas of life. Beyond showing love and being a good example to my children, for instance, I need to intentionally instruct them in the way of faith. In my marriage, I need to intentionally direct the relationship toward biblical growth and maturity. In my friendships, 1 need to intentionally lead others to the place of meeting or going deeper with God. In my work, I need to intentionally look for ways to minister and serve that go further than "just doing the job."
These are good thoughts, and "intentional" is a good word. I sense it's the idea Paul had in mind when he wrote, "I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air" (1 Cor 9:26) He
followed a clear purpose for his life and ministry: "I do all this for the sake of the gospel" (v. 23). That's an important reminder in an age prone to aimlessness and inconsistency - to be intentional and purposeful in relationships and ministry, in service and faith.
But there's another side to "intentional" that I'm not so sure about: the idea that eveiy relationship or conversation or action must have some deeper purpose or ulterior motive. I don't know if that's a healthy way to look at things. It's never good to think only of the bottom line, whether financially, interpersonally, or spiritually. That smacks of the old "win friends and influence people" ploy, in which the emphasis is more on "win" than "friends." Total preoccupation with the outcome, it seems to me, is a sure way to sabotage the process. Thinking only of making money leads to shoddy work; thinking only of making a point leads to shoddy relationships.
so I don't think it's always good to be intentional. One could argue, in fact, that some of us could stand to be more "unintentional" at times. While it's certainly true, as I've mentioned, that our culture suffers from strains of aimlessness, there is also a strong current running in the opposite direction. In some ways we have far too much purpose, which fills our calendars to the margins and prevents us - always rushing intently to the next thing - from enjoying the moment.
Sometimes - maybe most of the time - the best way to improve a
relationship is exactly that: to enjoy the moment. To be with someone. And I mean "be" in the broadest sense of the term: to be genuine, be honest, be open, and most importantly, be present, fully and now, rather than in that constant state of distraction and impatience that afflicts our restless age.
The well-known story of Mary and Martha illustrates this. When Jesus went to the sisters' house for dinner, "Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made" (Luke 10:40). Mary, by contrast, "sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said" (v. 39). Jesus made his feelings about the situation clear: "Mary has chosen what is better" (v 42).
There is a tendency to think of Jesus's life as the epitome of intentionality, involving a pressing schedule of ministry and a relentless march to the cross. Certainly there is truth in that, but I think the incident at Mary and Martha's house may exemplify Jesus's ministry more than we realize. Instead of follOwing a concise schedule or plan, as we contemporary calendar-driven types are prone to do, Jesus seemed to spend much of his time just "hanging out" with people, as we might describe it today. His was not a ministry of hidden agendas or ulterior motives, but one that grew fully and appropriately out of the need, the opportunity, the wisdom of each situation and moment.
In a similar way, we need to be intentional people, but not slaves to intentionality. We need to have a "higher purpose" without neglecting the call to "have fun and make money," so to speak. We need to make the most of our relationships and ministry opportunities partly by having a plan, but mostly by being present, awake and pleased to be there.
IN QUIRIN G MINDS
BY MARVIN HEIN
QIn the church why do the old always have to give in to the young? (CAliFORNIA)
AThe answers to this question are obvious. They go like this : The youth are the future of the church so we must keep our young people in the church The pressures of the times demand that we accept changes in the way we do church. Our culture caUs for methods that appeal to the more subjective , mood-creating dispositions of our society If we want to win this postffiodern generation, we will need to meet people where they are.
The question, no doubt, a r ises from one who wonders whether always adapting to societal trends is biblical. I imagine that the inquirer is an older person who wonders if at times, the church is disobeying Paul's admonition not to "conform to this world ." Mu sic styles, for instance, seem to have their origin in popular, HoUywood methods and sometimes even content . Oh, yes, I know the retort that comes in behalf of contemporary worship : "We once got some of our gospel-hymn tunes from the bars " That's true, too.
Believers respond variously to the contemporary scene. Some are able simply to go along with the trends, adopt the methods and rejoice that God is blessing both old and young Others recognize inteUectually that there has to be change and they try hard to participate enthusiastically But inwardly they feel "away from home" and often struggle to enjoy what doesn't reaUy satisfy them. Still others take a more radical position and simply will not change. When they think of the past, they feel a lot like the old song said it : " .'tis the old time religion and it's good enough for me ,"
I would like to paraphrase the inquirer's question: Why are we not more deliberate in th e church to rec-
ognize aU age groups?
In a recent letter to the editors of the Mennonite Brethren Herald, a 24year-old woman recognizes that some older folks are exiting the church because of their inability or refusal to accept changes She suggests that elders (age, not pOSition) and their views should be respected
"If we love them, why do we have to push this on them?" she writes , referring to insisting that certain songs that trouble older believers be sung. "Why can't we show them (the elderly) we respect them and love them enough to listen to what they have to say? "
That 's a kind word from the young, and with a good bit oftruth, too . I'm not persuaded that young people generaUy are determined to make church life miserable for older folks . If there is offense, I believe it is mostly un intentional But perhaps, while urging the aging to be more charitable to the young, we need to encourage the younger and our pastors - especially youth pastors - to endeavor deliberately to listen to and appreciate the views of those who hopefuUy are more mature
Have we been slow to discover ways in which the aging can be involved in church music? Are reports from the "oldies" generation featured along with the repeated reports of youth camps and activities? There must be some ways in which the older can feel a vital part of the worship service except by serving communion
I recall one Christmas season when a large group of senior citizens met across the street from where the MBYers were having a party Later that evening the parents and grandparents moved across the street and serenaded the young with Christmas carols . There was no end of appreciation from the younger people who apparently had not experienced this "old-fashioned" tradition We need to
discover ways in which the various generations show appreciation for each other.
My call is not to diminish the emphasis on youth, but to increase awareness in the church of a large block of people who have reached their three score and ten, perhaps, and still struggle just like young people in a world changing so rapidly
QWhy doesn't our pastor say something about the current mess in the White House?
(CAliFORNIA)
AProbably because he is wise
Well, maybe that's not the best answer.
I can appreciate the predicament into which pastors are placed in times like ours They have been caUed by God to pronounce both judgment and grace. If a pastor refrains from commenting on the current scene because he doesn't want to be judgmental, he is probably wrong It may be politically correct to reserve judgment, but the Bible clearly calls us to identify sin and condemn it.
It seems to me that the difficulty in this instance is that the Christian is also called to ask people to respect government leaders . It is not easy to condemn the sin and respect the person or the office he or she holds . Most of us don't do that very well . Perhaps the saddest part of this "oval office " sin is what it does in people's minds around the world with respect to honoring leadership Nixon ' s Watergate and Clinton's whatever-gate tend to disillusion us about leaders and their offices and we become skeptical about aU leaders And it isn't long until we assume similar attitudes toward church leaders . If I were still a pastor, I think I'd try to find a balance betwee n judgment and grace, but I know it wouldn't be simple.
ON THE JOURNEY
BY ROSE BUSCHMAN
Mission trip worth the cost
The trip was a big chunk of money out of our budget. Could the price tag be justified, or was I just good at rationalizing my desire for adventure?
IN THE MIDDLE of packing and getting ready for our ministry trip to Africa this summer, the July issue of the Christian
Leader arrived with its editorial on "Responding to the call of affluence." The basic questions asked included: Are short-term, usually one or two week, mission trips worth the money they cost? Could or should the money be better spent on other types of mission efforts?
The editorial hit me like a rockstraight to my forehead - and sent me reeling. I certainly knew the high cost of an overseas mission trip. As the editorial suggested, our airline tickets cost over $2,400 each. And yes, there were related costs, such as clothing and other necessities. Furthermore, we spent $125 per person on required shots and antimalarial medication. And then there was the cost of the things we intended to leave with our hosts. Our church gave a substantial love offering toward these items, but the trip was still a big chunk of money out of our budget. Was it worth the expense, as the editorial questioned?
I must admit that I really struggled with that for a few days. We were committed to go, people in the host country were expecting us, and a lot of money had already been spent, so we couldn't back out. I continued making lists, collecting necessary items and packing suitcases but my thoughts were in turmoil. Why were we doing this? Was this just some kind of an exotic vacation rather than a bona fide ministry trip? Could the high price tag be justified, or was I just good at rationalizing my desire for adventure?
As I was paging through my Bible one morning, a verse caught my attention rather forcefully. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit - fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name." John 15:16 (NIV). At first I
tried to ignore it. This verse didn't really apply to me and, besides, I don't believe in looking for biblical proof texts to justify my actions. ( I have a feeling, though, that this happens more often than I care to admit.) Finally, after several days, I had to admit to myself that here was my reassurance: God had chosen me and I was to go and bear fruit. At first I wondered about the inclusion of the promise at the end of the verse. However, two days into our Africa visit I knew why it was there.
lyre had taken a new computer
W along to give to our host, who desperately needed one for his miniStry. At first, we were able to get it to work on the electrical system there and everyone was excited and pleased. However, something went wrong with the installation of the program to operate the add-on mouse we had brought. After a number of hours of frustrating attempts to correct the problem, things looked rather bleak. Nothing worked as it should. Technical help was thousands of miles away. It was almost midnight when we all decided to go to bed and try again in the morning. I didn't sleep much that night, but claimed my promise from John 15:16. "Lord, we didn't bring that com-
puter all the way over here just so that it wouldn't work," I prayed. "Help my husband find the problem and ,correct it. Bruno needs this computer for his work and you have given me the promise that whatever I ask in your name, you will give." My prayer was answered the next morning when my husband took a fresh approach to solving the problem and got the computer working again as it should.
I've asked a number of people who have gone on ministry trips about the cost/value ratio of their experience. All have been positive in their responses. A friend who went to see her missionary children this summer said , "It was worth every penny of it. I saw how people accepted my son and his family, how they lived and worked. Now I can pray more effectively for them."
Gillian, my English friend, has been on a number of short-term trips and offers this advice: "Mission trips must have a purpose and result in relationships formed with people in the countries visited. This will help us support our new friends in prayer, with encouragement and even money when needed."
My husband insists that trips of this nature should be funded from the "vacation budget" rather than with funds designated for missions. That's a new thOUght!
We live in a global world and need to think more globally. Overseas mission trips will help us do that, but our giving to and praying for missions must increase as a result of any mission trip. Many of us have more discretionary income now than we have ever had before. How much we give to the Lord's work is more a matter of priority in how we spend our money than in the availability of funds.
Imagine what we could do missionwise if we did what the Burkinabe Christians do . Every Sunday they prepare to give two offerings . The first is their tithe offering, which is designated for "evangelism and missions." The second offering (above their tithe) is used for local church expenses
It's all treats - no tricks - at church parties
BY NATALEE ROTH
.N;the end of this month, church buildings from Nebraska to Caliornia will fill with laughing children playing games and munching candy. While these gatherings aren't called Halloween parties, concerns over the origins of All Hallow's Eve prompt some congregations to host alternative parties in late October for children and their families.
Leonard Reimer, pastor of Millard Bible Church in Omaha, Neb., says a major reason his congregation hosts an alternative is because of Halloween's emphasis upon witchcraft. "We just look to have a safe environment without the emphasis on witchcraft , " he says. "We look at it as a very important time of year for the kids to have fun. " He says the congregation is happy with this alternative
According to Martha Zimmerman, author of Celebrating the Christian Year, the ancient Druids originated the holiday to honor the sun god and as a sign of the Celtic new year To ward off curses and hardship caused by the spirits who roam the earth on October 31, people put on masks to disguise themselves and offered fruits and vegetables to win the spirits' favor.
Zimmerman says Christians in the fourth century reclaimed the holiday by honoring saints on November 1. But eventually, Christian and pagan ways of celebrating the holidays blended Children went door-to-door asking for treats and played tricks on those who failed to comply with their request.
Garden Valley Church at Garden City, Kan., started hosting alternative Halloween parties because of a concern over some of the spiritual implications of Halloween, says pastor Steve Prieb.
"This was a healthy alternative for the children. They still have fun and games and fellowship and candy, but in a church setting," he says. Children are asked not to wear costumes to the game night.
Children who come to the party hosted by Heritage Bible Church in Bakersfield, Calif., are asked not to
wear scary costumes Children can win prizes, including Bibles, at the carnivalatmosphere Halloween alternative . Rob Reimer, pastor of Community Bible Church in Olathe, Kan., says that while the majority of people in his congregation don ' t see anything wrong with allowing their children to go trickor-treating, about 20 to 25 percent of the congregation don ' t celebrate Halloween . These families have begun planning an alternative activity October 31 for interested families from the congregation .
"It takes the emphasis off Halloween and the ghosts and the goblins, and says we can have a good time dressing up as well," says Reimer Two years ago the party was especially memorablethe theme was the popular Christian video series, "Veggie Tales."
"All of us liked the Veggie Tales, so some of [the kid's mothers] did skits and sang some of the songs," says Nancy Hood, one of the mothers who planned the party. "It was a lot of fun." Party goers ate vegetables and in keeping with the theme, played games involving fruits and vegetables. Some of the kids came dressed as favorite Veggie Tales characters.
"The people that do go ahead with the alternative party don ' t make a big deal out of it and the people who go trick-or-treating don't make a big deal
Last year. two clowns greeted children who attended the Fall Carnival hosted by Buhler (Kan.) MB Church.
of it either, so it works out quite nicely," says Reimer.
In an effort to avoid trick-or-treaters, Hood says her family used to spend Halloween night in their basement with the lights out. "But when we found that there were others who were interested in doing some alternative that wasn't Halloween - to get us out of our house so we wouldn't have that dilemma anymore - we decided to put something small together." Hood says the number of participating families has grown .
"For us personally as a family," says Hood, "we don't want to be home passing out candy to trick-or-treaters [That] gives our own children a mixed message: It's not OK for you to do, but these other kids are coming to the door and we should give them candy."
For families living in large cities such as Omaha, church parties can be safer than going door-to-door.
"In the city you don't know where your kids are getting what from," says Leonard Reimer. Reimer says that in Omaha razor blades have been found in kids' candy. In addition to the church party, most parents take their children trick-or-treating to the homes of people they know.
"I'm not interested in taking a night of fun away from the kids," says Reimer, "but I'm interested in offering a safe environment with a' Christian emphasis. "
For the past 10 years, the Millard Bible party has been planned for children who attend the congregation's midweek AWANA clubs. The parties have incorporated various themes; last year it was a Harvest Hoedown and one year it was an All Saints Party.
At Bethany MB Church in Fresno, Calif., the Fall Family Festival has a similar goal. Carolyn Warkentine says the festival takes the pressure off children to go trick-or-treating and keeps them off unsafe streets She says everyone enjoys the family-oriented activity because it's a way for kids to play games and receive candy without fostering greed.
A Bethany couple first came up with the idea for the festival six years ago . It has become an outreach to the community and is advertised in the local newspaper and with temporary signs on the road. Participants are greeted at the door and given information about the church All activities are indoors or in well lit areas outside. Costumes are not encouraged but are optional
In Buhler, Kan., safety isn't an issue but reaching out to the community is. The congregation has hosted a Fall Carnival for about four years "It's a nice way of sharing God's love," says Clarice Rempel. "It's not just fun and games; we do put a Christian emphasis to it." At some point during the evening the pastor gathers the kids together and presents the gospel.
IN BRIEF
APPOINTMENT: AI Dueck has been appointed the Evelyn and Frank Freed Professor of the Integration of Psychology and Theology in Fuller Theological Seminary's School of Psychology in Pasadena . Dueck has been the d irector of the marriage, family and child counseling program at MBBS in Fresno "Dr Dueck is an outstanding scholar with a b road base of training and exper i ence More importantly, he has a heart for mentoring students," says Jim Guy, dean of the School of Psycho l ogy Dueck will teach in both the Clinical Psychology and Family Therapy Departments of School of Psychology . (Fuller Theological Seminary)
STRIFE : Mennonites in Indonesia have suffered less than others during the country's recent upheaval spawned by economic and political disintegration Indonesian Mennonite leaders and North American visitors say no church members have been killed, beaten or raped, and of nearly 500 churches destroyed only one is Mennonite . But some M e nnonites' stores and homes have been vandali zed and robbed Some have made plans to leave Indonesia Mesach Krisetya, president of Mennonite World Conference, says, "We live in a very uncertain situation We know who holds the future - that's God " Don Jacobs, executive director of Mennonite Christian Leadership Foundation, recently visited the country . " In a way, it's a shining hour for the church because it ' s never been more difficult, " he says "They're falling back on thei r faith more than ever " (Meetinghouse)
ATTACK: MCC workers in Khartoum, Sudan, are staying close to home following the Aug 20 U S missile strikes on that city Bevand Rick Binder and their two sons heard "what sounded like two jets or missiles fly over," writes Bev in an Aug . 20 e-mail . They later discovered by watching CNN that it was an attack . (MCC)
Hom till
Two young athletes visit the II Jonah and the Whale" booth to try and catch a treat at the Buhler MB Church Fall Carnival held Oct. 31.
Vision produces vitality at Grace Bible Church
• Rural congregation implements successful strategy for outreach, discipleship
congregation to put some of this vision into action by rewriting the church vision statement. Grentz says the congregation's leaders worked together to develop the statement which they're now implementing.
fifth in a series of profiles
BY NATALEE ROTH
"MoST OF our rural communities - at least in North and South Dakota - are really dying out, and often the church is affected," says Clinton Grenz , Central District minister. But Grenz says the situation at Grace Bible Church in Gettysburg, S D , is a different story In fact, Grentz believes Grace Bible serves as a model for other rural churches.
When the church officially opened in 1965, the average attendance was 37. Currently, membership is just under 100 and the congregation is building an addition that will double the size of the church. They recently hired their first youth pastor and sent a missionary to Nepal.
Grenz says Grace Bible has always been a fairly healthy church. He calls Jim Weems, who came to the church five years ago, a visionary pastor A few years ago , Weems worked with the
John Langer, Grace Bible Christian education director, says Weems' excitement about rewriting the church vision statement has caught on in the leadership . "Our pastor decided we needed a vision statement and that we all needed to be moving as one," he says. "We could see growth coming and we could see lives changed."
(irenz recognizes the unity of the leadership team. "It's just a beautiful team effort on the part of the leadership and on the part of the congregation working at reaching the community for Christ," he says. "They've got a mission - which is the Great Commission - and with that, an intentional focus on reaching out."
Grenz says the church has found a well-balanced approach to ministry in that they have an outreach ministry, but don't neglect the needs of people within the church body.
Weems says the congregation has taken ownership of the statement and this has made the vision fruitful. Grenz says, "It ' s an alive church People go
there and they feel welcome - they're assimilated into the body "
Bart Tobert, a deacon and homegroup Bible-study leader, says the vision statement focuses on outreach and discipleship. "The vision statement seemed to be a reflection of what we're doing anyway," he says. "It focused us more on outreach again."
A new prayer ministry is part of the vision statement and Langer says it has brought about changes in the church as well. Langer learned about the prayer ministry at a conference he attended "Since we started daily prayer [gatherings] and praying over the congregation and the church on Sundays, we've seen a big change," he says. Eight groups of people meet for prayer each day of the week, and on Sunday mornings they pray over every aspect of the morning service.
Grenz says small-group ministries are rare in rural America, but this is another ministry Grace Bible Church has tackled effectively Currently, nine home Bible study discipleship groups meet, and many are open to nonbelievers.
Tobert and his wife , Laurie, started leading couples' Bible studies when they joined the congregation. The Tolberts have focused on outreach and have found that individuals attending other churches in the community are eager to be part of an evangelical Bible study. He says two families have come to the church as a result of home groups of which he's been a part.
Langer agrees that the outreach Bible studies draw people to the congregation. "We've had people hear the word, 'Mennonite' and they don't
Grace Bible Church is a healthy congregation, according to Central District minister Clint Grenz, and can serve as a model to other rural congregations. Construction has begun on an addition that will double the size of the present facility, pictured here prior to construction. The congregation, founded in 1965, has grown to a membership of 93.
Pastor Jim Weems has led the church leadership in the process 9f articulating a vision statement for the congregation.
know what that is and it makes them nervous," says Langer. "So they'll check out our Bible study first and then come [to church]. I was in that category six years ago. I came on my own one week and liked it and then brought my family the next week."
Weems has preached on church health and servanthood as part of the vision-building process. He also started leadership training sessions. Weems '" says home-group leaders are encouraged to go through the leadership training before starting a group .
The youth program is also using
small-group principles. Mark and Heather Dick came to the congregation two years ago as the youth-pastor couple. He says that in the past the youth group has been led by sponsor couples from the church.
Weems says Dick is the only youth pastor in Gettysburg and believes this has shown the town that Grace Bible is ' willing to spend the money to meet community needs.
This year Dick is having the youth meet in small groups on Wednesday nights instead of meeting in a large group the whole time. "The big-group Bible studies haven't necessarily been really effective for spiritual growth," he says.
The groups are same -sex and are made up of four to six kids each A sponsor leads each group. Dick says hopefully the kids will become better friends in the small-group setting and realize that they can rely on each other. "It's difficult in this town - it seems like there aren't a lot of other Christian kids," Dick says. "[The small groups will] get them connected with each other and with the leaders in their group." The groups meet for discussion and, Dick hopes, provide accountability.
Dick also plans to work with some of the youth to develop a vision statement for the youth group. He says this will help the youth define their goalsespecially in the area of evangelism,
discipleship and worship. He says the youth may not realize that all these things need to be a part of a church or a youth group.
In addition to home Bible studies and the youth program, the Grace Bible congregation reaches out to the community in other ways. Weems sayy / the midweek AWANA program draws about 100 children each year and 30 to 40 workers who volunteer their time to make the program successful.
Langer says Sunday school attendance is also up compared to years past. He says some newcomers have joined Sunday school groups right away, whereas in the past, people have been reluctant to join. What draws them?
"I think it's prayer, I think it's hearing about our church, coming and trying us out, it's people inviting their neighbor or their friend," says Langer "I don't think we'd be growing if it wasn't God's will or if the people weren't behind it."
Grace Bible is also reaching out beyond the church doors. Weems is the pastoral-care director at the Gettysburg medical center, which is the biggest employer in Gettysburg. Several people in the church have been volunteer caregivers there for the past year.
"Now we've really got a witness in that center," says Weems . "That has been an opportunity for us."
Tobert says Weems' involvement in the medical center puts the congregation in contact with people with whom they wouldn't normally be in touch.
"We have found some different people at our door on Sunday morning, ones that we wouldn't expect to see otherwise," he says.
Tobert says the building project also draws people's attention. "I think they say, ' There must be something happening there.' There's a reputation here or something that's drawing them to us. That's exciting." Tobert says people come to Grace Bible from towns as far as 60 miles away.
Weems says he encourages everyone in the church to evaluate how they are using their spiritual gifts and make sure they are not just spectators in the church.
"It's just a strong healthy church with a very positive influence in the community," Grenz says.
Clint Grenz, Central District minister, and Grace Bible members Phil Hamburger and Ray Van Bockel attended the Grace Bible's family campout this past June.
IN BRIEF
KILLING : MCC and MBMSI received word that Alber Chocho, of Darien, Panama, was killed in late Aug by Colombian guerrillas He was a member of the United Evangelical Church (MB) in Panama . One of Chocho's sons was wounded trying to defend his father and is recovering Raids by Colombian paramilitary groups into Panama's rural villages are becoming an increasingly severe problem MBMSI and MCC support the service ministry programs of the UEC churches (MCC, MBMSI)
MISSIONARIES: Ka zuhiro and Lois Enomoto of Fresno left for Japan Aug. 17 for a three -year term with the Commission on Overseas Mission of the General Conference Mennonite Church and Mennonite Board of Missions of the Mennonite Church They are serving at Tokyo Anabaptist Center and guest house, Lois as hostess and Kaz as director of the center They are members of the Fairview (Okla .) MB Church . (MCC)
DECISION : Faith Mennonite Church of Minneapolis, Minn survived an Aug . 8 surprise expulsion vote by the Iowa -Nebraska conference of the Mennonite church . The congregation accepts noncelibate homosexuals in the church The vote took place at the annual meeting of the conference, where 59 percent of the delegates voted that the conference could not "remain in full fellowship" with the congregation A two -thirds vote is required for discipline actions (GCMC)
INTEGRATION : A restructuring proposal for a region of the Mennonite Church was approved recently The Iowa -Neb (MC) and Northern District (GC) congregations will constitute one conference and North Central Conference (MC), covering eastern Mont to northern Wis , will form the core of a second conference No timetable has been given for the merger process (GCMC)
District fall gatherings emphasize inspiration, priorities and love
• SDC opts for rallies; PDC, CDC to hold conventions
THE THREE LARGEST district conferences are preparing for their annual fall gatherings. The Southern District is opting for regional rallies while the Central and Pacific District will hold traditional conventions.
Southern District
The Southern District Conference is holding five district rallies from Oct. 3 through Nov. 1 as an alternative to the traditional convention.
Chairman Daryle Baltzer says, "The rallies are intended to be inspirational rather than business-oriented. Our desire is to introduce the district to new people in the conference as well as encourage long-time attenders of churches."
No business sessions are planned for the rallies, and the program includes the showing of 'a new video featuring Mission USA and District ministries.
"We will introduce several keynote people and also a program that we're embarking on called Church Resource Ministries, which is for leaders," says District minister Roland Reimer.
CRM is a strategic plan, according to Reimer, that will help churches sharpen commitment, mission and vision for the next millennium.
Pacific District ,
The Pacific District will hold a traditional convention Nov. 6-7 at the Dinuba MB Church The theme of this year's convention is "While We Wait" and will "get us refocused on what we are to be doing while we wait for the blessed hope of the Lord's return," says Henry Dick, PDC district minister.
The convention will feature speakers from multicultural MB churches. Jose Elizondo, pastor of Iglesia El Buen, the Hispanic church in Orange Cove, Calif., will speak at one session .
During other sessions, Berhanu Feleke Waldemariam, pastor of Bethel Ethiopian Church in Seattle, Wash. ,
and Pastor Hang Ku Shim of the Joong Ang Korean church will speak. A Slavic student from FPU will share in the Fresno Pacific University report.
Dick says one of the five Saturday workshops will be about the South Mountain Community church plant in Utah, where Paul and Jini Robie are working. Gary Wall" pastor of the Vinewood Church in Lodi, Calif., is planning the workshops
The home missions banquet Friday night is the focal point of the convention, which ends Saturday afternoon with music and a message.
Central District
The Central District has invited Pastor Larry Martens of the North Fresno MB Church to speak about small group ministry at this year's convention. The theme of the Nov. 6-8 convention is "Church vitality through circles of love." CDC members will meet at the Lustre (Mont.) MB church.
Martens says his church has been working to increase the percentage of people in the congregation involved in small groups. He plans to talk about the church as a caring and ministering community.
"The small group becomes one of the most effective ways in which the gifts of lay people can be exercised," he says. His talks will focus on themes from the book of Acts.
"My hope would be that people could become renewed in their commitment to make the church a community of care and compassion," Martens says .
He hopes his talks will motivate churches that aren't currently using small groups to start them.
Ron Seibel, pastor of the Mountain Lake (Minn.) MB Church, is helping to plan the convention. He says church planting is also a top priority and the Friday evening banquet and program will focus on this topic.
Saturday noon, Jim Holm from MBBS will speak at a men's luncheon and several missionary speakers will speak at the women's luncheon
The focus Saturday evening is missions and services. Russell Schmidt, a missionary who just returned from Thailand, and Henry Brown, a regional representative for MBMSI, will be part of the program - Natalee Roth
Missi the
Neufelds serve with MDS as doers of the Word among the hurting
• Bakersfield couple has traveled to three states in the wake of natural disasters
THE BIBLE says in James to not merely listen to the Word but to do what it says. Eddie and Verona Neufeld of Bakersfield, Calif., are doing just that
The Neufelds, members of Laurelglen Bible Church, served as Mennonite Disaster Service project directors at the Birmingham, Ala , project site.
In April the area was hit by a massive storm system that produced tornadoes and left major destruction. MDS set up a project site there soon after The Neufelds have been in Alabama
NEWS COMMENTARY
Loving the 'Tanza'nia embassy bombers
Loving one's enemies is not the basis of national foreign policy but it is the command of a radical (and sometimes unpopular) Lord
BY PEGGY JOHNSON
As we sat at the breakfast table, our 6-year old son, Samuel, piped up: "Mom, why does God want us to love our enemies?" During that week we had been reading Matthew 5, the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus instructs us to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us.
"Well, Samuel, ifwe try and love our enemies, then we won't have to hate them. Maybe, after a while, we can begin to understand them and they can become our friends. Then we won't have to fight them or go to war with them."
"Hmmm well, why doesn't everyone do that?"
"It's very hard, Samuel, a very hard thing to do."
At the time of this conversation, my family and I were in Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania, completing work-related tasks before returning to our home in Arusha, another Tanzanian city. We were staying in the rented home of our newest volunteers who were still in language school.
Hours later my husband, Bill, returned with news that the U.S. embassies in Dar es Salaam and Nairobi had been bombed. As Bill turned on the shortwave radio and searched for more news, Samuel noticed our anxiety and asked what was wrong. I explained that the building we had visited a few weeks ago, the U.S Embassy, had been bombed and that some people were hurt, others killed. I told him this happened because some people, probably from outside Tanzania, did not like the decisions that American leaders had made, so they bombed the Embassy because it's an important American bUilding.
since the beginning of July, managing the work sites and coordinating the volunteers who come to serve.
For the Nt;!ufelds, serving with MDS has become a way of doing what the Word says. Their first term of service with MDS was in April and May of 1996 in Woodland, Wash., the site of severe flooding.
"Eddie and I had been reading Scriptures urging us to be doers of the Word, not just hearers, and reminding us that when we give a cup of cold water to the least of these, we do it for the Lord," says Verona. "These Scriptures kept hitting us so we decided that when we retired, we wanted to do service and wanted to travel also."
"We had looked into serving as mobile missionaries, but in February of 1996, a man from our church suggested we look into MDS," she says. "We had never heard of MDS, but that year the MDS AU-Unit meeting was in Reed-
"That's terrible," Samuel said. "Did those people try to love their enemies first?"
"I don't think so, Samuel."
Loving one's enemies is not really a factor within national foreign policy, I suspect. That's why Jesus was such a radical guy and not terribly popular with the local leaders.
Of course, it's ridiculous to think that the American government will try to love those who perpetrated this horrendous crime or to think that love will have anything to do with U.S. policies abroad.
But perhaps as Americans, especially
Verona and Eddie Neufeld pose outside the MDS mobile headquarters in Birmingham. Ala •• where they served for three months as project directors following a devastating tornado there.
Peggy Johnson pictured with husband Bill Finnerty and children Samuel. Galen and Sophie.
ly, Calif. We spoke to Jim Clymer, chair of the California Unit, who told us that MDS needed project directors. So we filled out an application and two months l ater we were in Woodland, Wash."
I n 1997, the Neufelds served with MDS for nine months as project directors in Yuba City, Calif., the site of serious flooding. They were there until the project closed in early 1998.
In Birmingham, the Neufelds continued doing
included scheduling and recruiting volunteers, managing the project finances, communicating weekly with the binational office in Akron and maintaining the project headquarters.
"You get far more out of it
than you give."
-VERONA
NEUFELD
what the Word says. Eddie's tasks included working one-on-one with the people whose homes were destroyed, assessing damage and doing casework.
He also ordered building materials, assigned work to various volunteers and was the liaison between the Red Cross and the homeowners.
As office manager, Verona's tasks
At one point, Jake and Edna Rempel of Mission, B.C., joined the Neufelds to serve as crew leader and cook.
"The hardest thing about being project directors is the long hours," Verona says, "but the most rewarding thing is knowing that you're serving
the Lord. You get far more out of it than you give. It's very rewarding . You get a real sense of fulfillment and make fabulous friends. More churches need to understand what MDS is all about and promote it."
The Neufelds, both 67, finished their term in Birmingham at the end of September . -Marisa Doncevic, MDS administrative assistant
IN BRIEF
SCHOLARSHIPS: Mennonite Health Services and the MCC Canada Mental Health and Disabil ities Program invite Canadian and American graduate students pursuing careers in mental health fields to apply for scholarships The scholarships, to be awarded in the spring for the 1999-2000 academic year, are available from the Elmer Ediger Memorial Scholarship Fund . Four to six recipients each year will receive between $1,000 and $1,200 . Applications must be received by Feb 1, 1999 For applications write to Jenny E Yoder, Mennonite Health Services, 234 S. Main St ., Suite A, Goshen, IN 46526 or call (219) 534 - 9689 (MHS)
Christians, we might try to understand what might drive people to take such drastic and inhumane measures. American foreign policy is not without fault and no doubt if we tru ly understand our "enemy" better, it would be reflected in our dealings with other countries.
Then innocent Tanzanians and Kenyans wouldn't have to suffer on our account.
"We have enough to deal with here without having to deal with American problems," said Yusif Ngenya, a lab technician at the University of Dar es Salaam. He was on Ocean Drive, less than
Pe
troubled world. Our son continues to ask his own questions: "Are we American leaders, Mom?" "Will they want to bomb our house?" "Is this an important building?"
He seems to have worked through much of it now. But, he is
r haps as Americans, especially Christians, we might try to understand what might drive people to take such drastic
sensitive and, as children are, quite perceptive. When we bring newspapers home he wants to look at them. He's concerned that the guards he talked to at the U.S. Embassy several weeks ago were hurt or killed.
We pray the guards are safe but know that many are suffering. We pray for healing but know it will take time. And we pray that God and inhumane measures.
a kilometer from the U.S. Embassy at the time of the blast. "We stopped the car to look around it was so loud. People came running outdoors and into the street to see what happened."
"Who did this? And why here?" asked Ngenya. "These are the questions that Tanzanians are asking today "
The an swers to these questions lie in the complex political dynamics of a
gives us the grace to, as Samuel believes and as Jesus teaches, love our enemies and do good to those who hate us.
Peggy Johnson wrote this essay in late August, a week after the bombing of the embassies. She and her husband, Bill Finnerty, are Mennonite Central Committee country representatives in Tanzania, a country they say prides itself on being peaceful. They are from Minneapolis, Minn.
GRANT : The Fresno Graduate School received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education to strengthen the voice of bilingual educators at the university The grant is renewable for up to five years for Project VOICE (Valuing and Owning Identity through Collaboration of Excellence) to provide support for future bilingual educators The project is a series of seminars for Hmong and Spanishspeaking paraprofessionals who are pursuing degrees in bilingual education at FPU . "The grant is very important because the great diversity in the California educational system is not reflected in the teaching force," says Mary Ann larsen-Pusey, cowriter of the grant (FPU)
RANKING: Fresno Pacific University is ranked in the second tier out of four tiers of universities in the Western region in the 12th annual U S News & World Report America's Best Colleges FPU President Allen Carden says the university's inclusion in the report rankings "is a reflection of our commitment to excellence and a recognition of the vital role played by small, private colleges and universities in making the higher educational opportunities in this country the world ' s best " (FPU)
BODYLll'E
Fresno Pacific hosts special programs for special people
• People with developmental and physical disabilities are finding a caring home at FPU
MARIA IS HAVING a good time She slaps the table, throws her head back and laughs as she puts wooden blocks in a plastic bucket.
Her enthusiasm brings a grin from Junior, her normally quiet coworker . Junior's big, slow, shy smile only makes Maria laugh harder, creating an upward spiral of joy between two people who may not seem to have much to laugh about.
Maria and Junior are students in an Adult Transition Program (ATP) class, one of three programs hosted by Fresno Pacific University for people with developmental or physical difficulties. In another era, the pair would have been labeled "handicapped," "disabled," or "mentally retarded," terms today so bloated with dehumanizing baggage that their mere mention brings to mind dull faces slumped in gray silence in dark comers.
No more Students in the two ATP and one Orthopedically Impaired (01) classes are part of the world. They eat lunch on the campus green, get to know university students , exercise in the Special Events Center, work for a campus department or nearby business and attend movies and other community events.
All three classes are for students ages 18-22 who have completed a high school-level program. Students meet from 9 a.m to 3 p.m during the traditional school year in three mobile buildings north of the Special Events Center. Graduates go through university commencement.
One ATP class is operated by the Fresno County Office of Education and the other by Fresno Unified and Clovis school districts. Both are aimed at those considered "mild to moderately developmentally delayed ." Dennis Zink and Maria Falcon teach in the county program and Pam Stearns teaches for Fresno-Clovis. During the 1997-1998 school year Zink and Falcon taught 18 ATP stude nts and Steams taught eight.
Autism and Down's syndrome are common among ATP students , says Zink, a 1992 FPU graduate now working on his master's in special education at the university "They may have eating problems, mobility problems - it's any student who can't function in a normal classroom, " he says.
Elizabeth Acomb has eight 01 students, many with cerebral palsy. Six a re in wheelchairs, some have developmental disabilities and many e ither can't speak or they communicate via an electronic device "Problems are just a lot more physical in nature than the other classes ," she says.
Most 01 teaching is done with individuals or groups of two or three Despite mobility problems, many students are semi-independent, Acomb says. For example, they can use a computer, but need help to set it up.
Lessons in all three programs focus on developing work skills for those who can be employed, living as independently as possible and getting along with others. Depending on the strengths and weaknesses of each student, staff members might work on writing, hygiene, dreSSing, punctuality, or finishing assignments.
"These are all things you and I take for granted ," Zink says .
Stearns says lessons are concrete and goals are measurable. "We want to teach them by doing things in the real world, not by giving them paperwork," she says.
Curriculums are more flexible than those in traditional classes, with teachers relying more on their own instincts and knowledge of individual students. "I'm still always finding something different to do or ways to do something better," Acomb says.
As different as the three programs are, they share one goal: putting their students in the center of life. Zink says students in the three programs used to be in separate places, but are now integrated.
Most ATP students spend at least eight hours a week in a supervised job at stores such as Save Mart Supermarket or Wal-Mart Discount City. Working with employees, managers and a job coach from the program, students straighten shelves, put away returned or discarded merchandise, stack goods in the storeroom and help make bakery goodies Stearns' students also run errands at Twilight Haven, a retirement center just east of the university.
Others work on campus, helping facilities management keep up the grounds, stocking food and cleaning
Maria celebrates her accomplishment. She is a student in FPU's Adult Transition Program.
dishes for Pioneer Catering, the campus food service, sorting trash from treasure for the campus recycling effort and tidying the flower bed and playground at Small World Preschool at the nearby Butler Avenue MB Church Attendance and punctuality can be a problem , admits Brian England, food service director "They all need constant attention for their self-esteem , and a lot are introverted so they are hard to reach, " he says .
Though Pioneer is a for-profit company, England feels responsible for more than just feeding people. "My job is also to educate, even with the college kids and full-time staff I teach them what the world's about, that it's not just turning in papers ."
Those not ready to leave the classroom improve motor and other skills by working on puzzles, games and packaging teaching aids for Activities in Math and Science (AIMS) Education Foundation.
All students work on skills such as handling money, using shopping coupons and practicing good manners. The class is involved, however, in volunteer activities such as Toys for Tots. Contact between the disabled and the wider world helps everyone.
"It helps our students understand how they need to function to be part of the community, and it helps others understand our kids," Zink says .
Once students graduate, the Central Valley Regional Center, California State Department of Rehabilitation and ARC of Fresno help them with housing and employment . Teachers , parents and students confer closely to determine the best course.
"What we're trying to do is teach these kids to be all-around adults," Stearns says.
But Zink says the process can be difficult. "When parents find out their child is developmentally delayed, it's like a death - they grieve the loss of the child they could have had All their hopes for the kids going to high school, a prom or college, are gone ," he says
But Zink says most parents are able to develop new hopes and aspirations. A few, however, want to baby their children all their lives . "They want to do things for their kids that the kids could do for themselves," he says.
Since students come from many ethnic and racial backgrounds, Acomb says
culture can playa role. " If the student wants to be at home and their parents want them there, I don't push them into group homes "
But for the teachers, working with these stu dents is no more tiring than teaching in an ordinary classroom "I was just as exhausted when I was in regular education," Zink says. "These kids are grateful when you do something for them . In regular education, the kids don't always show that ."
Acomb intended to teach elementary school , but was recruited for special edu ca t ion while substitute teaching She is e n rolled in the Special Education Division at Fresno Pacific Graduate School. "It turned out to be something I really love. I can ' t see myself going back to a regular school," she says
Serving ATP and 01 students fits the university mission, says Joseph Taylor, head of the graduate learning handicapped program "I think these children are very special creations of God FPU students gain more by specialneeds students being here than specialneeds students gain by being here "
In tum, university students, faculty, administrators and staff have been very supportive to his charges, Zink says "This is one of the best places I've ever seen for accepting our students . I think because it's a Christian institution, people are more accepting and empathetic " -Wayne Steffen
CHURCH NOTES
• Baptism/membership
WICHITA, Kan. (First) - Denise Bennett, Veronica Doerksen and Jim and Terri Means were welcomed as members Aug 23
CORN, Okla. - Amy and Kyle Schmidt were baptized and became members Aug. 9.
LUSTRE, Mont - Ronda Olfert, Denise Pankratz, Nikki Reddig and Amy Toews were baptized and became members July 19
• Celebrations
PHARR, Texas - Dr and Mrs Joe Suderman celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary July 30 with a reception.
ENID, Okla - Jacob and Leora Thesman celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Aug 23 with a reception at the church.
FAIRVIEW, Okla. - Harry and Viola Martens celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Aug 16 at the church. A floral arrangement was placed in the church Aug. 23 in honor of Walt and June Bartel's 50th wedding anniversary.
CORN, Okla. - E1Vern and Greta Nikkel celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Aug 20.
ULYSSES, Kan. - Herb and Lorina Gillen celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Aug. 30 with a reception.
WICHITA, Kan. (First) - Mom's Carelink, a fall program at the church, will feature
FEBRUARY 13 - MARCH 7, 1999
Leaders - Henry & Jane Landes
Time for dedication
symposium following the dedication.
topics such as friends, children, money, goals and marriage
BlAINE, Wash. (Bible Community) - Tim Thiessen was installed Aug. 9 as full-time associate/youth pastor
LUSTRE, Mont. - Pastor J Edward Epp was ordained July 12. The service was led by Arnie Toews, assistant leader of the church, and Eldon Busenitz.
HILLSBORO, Kan. (Ebenfeld) - Vaughn Jost was welcomed as associate pastor at an installation and licensing service Sept . 13.
DEAT H S
BEIER, ANNA KOS LOWSKY, Lustre, Mont. , a member of the Lustre MB Church, was born Dec. 12, 1906, to Marie Lohrenz and Martin J. Koslowsky a t Pe abody, Kan ., and died May 3 , 1998, at the age of 91. On March 1, 1928, she was married to Henry E Beier, who predeceased her in 1993 . She is survived by a son, Arlie and wife Dorothy of Lustre ; four sisters, Lena and husband Louis Toavs of Wolf Point, Mont ., Tena Pankratz of Hillsboro, Kan , El izabeth and husband Art Fast of Lustre and Mary and husband Clarence Seibel of Hillsboro; two brothers, Peter and wife Leona of Hillsboro and Jacob and wife Darlene of Newton, Kan.; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren
BELCHER, ELRESA KAT H ERINE H . RIC HE RT, Reedley, Calif., a member of the Heritage Bible Church in Bakersfield, was born April 7, 1920, to Leonhard J and Helen Hodel Richert at Las Vegas , N M , and died Aug 13, 1998, at the age of 78 On March 4, 1972, she was married to Elden Belcher, who predeceased her She is survived by three stepdaughters, Rose Ann Riley and Virginia Nendel, both of Mich igan and Louise Ropes of Calif ; a stepson, James Belcher of Michigan; a Sister, Bernice Cox of Vallejo , Calif ; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren
KLAASSEN, ANNA ClAI RE KLEINSASSER, Hillsboro, Kan , a member of the Hillsboro MB Church, was born Jan 25 , 1902, to John A and Katharina Glanzer Kleinsasser at Bridgewater, S.D , and died Sept 7, 1998, at the age of 96. On Aug 5 , 1926 , she was married to Frank B Klaassen, who prede· ceased her in 1969. She is survived by a
Tabor College Homecoming activities later this month will include the dedication of the Solomon L. Loewen Natural Science Center. The dedication is slated for Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. Hannington Pamba. dean of the School of Medicine at the University of Nairobi in Kenya and a 1962 Tabor graduate. will be the featured speaker at a science
daughter, Irma and husband Menno Thiessen; a son, David and wife Ruth; four brothers, Joe, Harold, Walter and Willis; four sisters, Katherine Wollman, Betty Waynflete, Edna Espenson and Emma DeFehr; seven grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
MILLER, JEANNE L. KAUFMAN, Sioux Falls, S.D., a member of Lincoln Hills Bible Church, was born May 30, 1936, to Paul and Amelia Schrag Kaufman in Turner County, S.D., and died July 28, 1998, at the age of 62. On Aug. 22, 1954, she was married to Dennis Miller, who survives. She is also survived by two sons, Craig and Kerwin and wife Mona; a sister, MarJean and husband Russell Waltner; and a brother, Myron and wife Darlene.
PATZKOWSKY, DORTHY JEAN, of the Fairview (Okla.) MB Church, was born June 21, 1931, to Andrew and Augusta Kliewer at Cordell, Okla., and died Aug. 2, 1998, at the age of 67. On Nov. 21, 1950, she was married to Allen Nikkel, who predeceased her in 1972. On April 19, 1975, she was married to Sam Patzkowsky, who survives. She is also survived by two daughters, Wynetta Allen of Yukon, Okla., and Reon and husband Allen Friesen of Highlands Ranch, Colo.; a son, Keith Nikkel and wife Rosemary of Corn, Okla.; and seven grandchildren.
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION
Publication title: The Christian Leader Publication number : 0009-54t9. Filing date: 10-5-98 Issue frequency : monthly. Number of issues published annually : 12. Annual subscription price: $16. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 315 S. Lincoln, Hillsboro, KS 67063. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: 315 S Lincoln, Hillsboro, KS 67063. Full names and complete mailing address of publisher, editor and managing editor: Publisher : U.S. Conference of Mennonrte Brethren Churches, 315 S Lincoln, Hillsboro, KS 67063; Edrtor-Connie Faber (interim), same address; Managing editor-none Owner: U.S Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, 315 S Lincoln. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: none. The purpose, function and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes has not changed during the preceding 12 months Extent and nature of circulation: the first number represents the average number of copies of each issue during the preceding 12 months (the number in parentheses is the actual number of copies of a Single issue published nearest to filing date, the September 1998 issue).
a. Total number of copies : 9,758 (10,000)
b. Paid andlor requested circulation: 1. Sales through dealers and carriers, and counter sales , 0 (0); 2. Paid or requested mail subscriptions, 9,521 (9,853)
c Total paid andlor requested circulation: 9,521 (9 ,653)
d. Free distribution by mail: 63 (50).
e Free distribution outside the mail: 40 (20)
f Total free distribution: 123 (70)
g. Total distribution : 9,644 (9,993)
h. Copies not distributed: 1. Office use, leftovers, spoiled: 114 (7); 2. Return from news agents, 0 (0).
I certify that all infonnation on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading infonnation on this form or who omits material or information on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) andlor civil sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties).-(signed) Connie Faber (interim edrtor),1 0/5/96
REGIER, CHARLENE, San Jose, Calif., a member of the Lincoln Glen Church, was born Aug. 24, 1949, to Henry and Eva Regier at San Jose and died May 27, 1998, at the age of 48. She is survived by her parents; a brother, Ron Regier and a sister, Anita Bell.
SCHALE, FRIEDA, Harvey, N.D., a member of the Harvey MB Church, was born April 14, 1911, to Daniel and Mathilda Schimke near Harvey and died Aug. 29, 1998, at the age of 87. On Jan. 31, 1934, she was married to Ervin Schale, who predeceased her in 1946. She is survived by two sons, Denny of Hillsboro , Kan., and Alan of Harvey; two daughters, Judy Bushnell of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Susan Schale of Garrison, N.D.; two brothers, Art of Kent, Wash ., and Ray of St. Claire Shores, Mich.; five sisters, Tillie Froeber of Warren, Mich , Maggie Schimke of Detroit, Mich., Lenora Bienek, Anna Gordon and Ella Heilman, all
of Harvey; 14 grandchildren and 16 greatgrandchildren.
SCHMIDT, EVA, Com, Okla., a member of the Com MB Church, was born June 24, 1909, to Peter F. and Marie Schellenberg Schmidt near Com and died Aug. 19, 1998, at the age of 89. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.
SEIBEL, HELEN SIFFERMAN, Lodi, Calif., a member of the Vinewood Community Church, was born April 22, 1917, at Wishek, N.D., and died July 26, 1998, at the age of 81. In 1937 she was married to Edwin Seibel, who survives. She is also survived by a son, Gary of Livermore, Calif.; a daughter, Debra of San FranCisco; and two sisters, Bertha of Sacramento, Calif., and Katherine Frank of Lodi.
VOGT, ANNA SUDERMAN, Corn, Okla., a
CHURCH PARTNERSHIP EVANGELISM
IN MINISTRY WITH MBMS INTERNATIONAL
Executive Director - Peter Loewen
POSSIBLE C-P.E. ITINERARY FOR 1999 AND AN INViTATION to born-again Christians under the sponsorship of MBMS International are seeking volunteers for their evangelism outreach. Cost/person*
1. INDIA
2. PERU - Arequipa
3. PHILIPPINES - Palawan
4. MEXICO - Mexico City.
5. PERU - Huancayo, Trujillo
6. UKRAINE
Jan. 15-Feb 8, '99
Jan. 15-31, '99
Feb. 12-March 1, '99
Feb. 12-March 1, '99 $1,000
March 12-29, '99 ?
April 23-May 10, '99
7. UKRIANE April 30-May 23, '99
8. NICARAGUA - Boaco, Chinandega May 14-31, '99
9. RUSSIA - Omsk.
June 3-28, '99
10. PARAGUAY - Asuncion July 9-26, '99
11. COSTA RICA July 9-26, '99
12. NICARAGUA Aug. 6-23, '99
- Kinshasa Aug. 6-23, '99
14. PERU - Cuzco, Lima Sept. 2-20, '99
15. RUSSIA - Orenburg. Oct. 7-25, '99
16. PHILIPPINES. Oct. 8-25, '99
17. CUBA - Orientes Oct. 15-Nov 1, '99
18. INDIA Nov. 6-29, '99 " $1,800 • Canadian dollars
Note: • only for nationals from the participating countries.
• Team up with national Christians and witness for Christ door to door.
• Some knowledge of the language of the country is helpful.
• Between 800-2,800 persons have prayed to accept Christ as their personal Savior and Lord during a two-week CPE campaign. Come and be a part of an enriching spiritual experience-discover what God can do through you.
For more information, contact: CPE office: Tel.-Fax: 604-864-3941, or Evelyn UnrUh, 604852-5744; or Peter Loewen, 604-853-3173 or Fax 604-853-6482
Church Partnership Evangelism is a "church-to-church" effort that involves lay members in personal evangelism worldwide. Your application to partiCipate will be forwarded to the C.PE Executive Committee for processing
PETER LOEWEN
CPE Executive Director
HAROLD W ENS
MBMS Int'! General Director
member of the Corn MB Church, was born March 5, 1904, to Eduard and Agnes Suderman near Corn and died July 19 , 1998, at the age of 94 . On Aug. 20, 1922 , she was married to Henry W. Vogt, who predeceased her in 1981. She is survived by a daughter, Ella and husband John Dyck of Cimarron, Kan ; two sons, Marvin and wife Elsie of Corn and Jim and wife Beth of Oklahoma City , Okla ; 11 grandchildren, 28 greatgrandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.
is acc epting applications for
FIELD REPRESENTAT IVE
This full-time position is responsible for our activity on the West Coast and would be based in Central California.
DUTIES:
To encourage and assist Christians throughout the U.S Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches in faithful stewardship. Specific responsibilities include stewardship education, individual counseling, planned giving, charitable estate planning and Foundation-related activity.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to communicate
• Aptitude for detail work
• Willingness to learn
• Christian commitment and desire to promote th e work of the Mennonite Brethren '
DIRECT INQUIRIES TO:
Attn: Jon Wiebe, MeooonIwBi'ethrel1
WILLEMS, AN NA WILFRIEDA SIEMENS, Reedley, Calif., a member of the Reedley MB Church, was born April 5, 1901, to Dietrich and Helena Welk Siemens near Inman , Kan., and died Aug 28 , 1998, at the age of 97 . On Nov. 5 , 1922, she was married to Bernhard "Barney" C. Willems, who predeceased her in 1972 She is survived by three sons, Jonathan and wife Pauline of Long Beach, Calif , Norman and wife Eileen of Lancaster, Pa., and Nathan and wife Nancy of Dinuba, Calif. ; one daughter, Kathleen and husband Eddie L. H einrichs of Reedley; a sister, Emma a nd husband John Wiens of Reedley; two b r ot h ers-in-law, Arnold Hiebert of Hillsboro , Kan , and John B Willems of Reedley; five sisters-in-law, Anna and husband Jake Isaac of Reedley, Eva and husband Andrew Classen of Fresno, Martha and husband John K1emma of Kansas City, Kan., Esther Willems of Reedley and Fern Willems of Kansas City, Kan ; six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren •
CLEARINGHOUSE
Have a pOSition to fill? Looking for a new employment or ministry opportunity? Have a gathering or celebration to promote? Reach U S Mennonite Brethren through a Clearinghouse classified ad The charge is 40 cents per word, with a $15 minimum Withhold payment until an invoice is received
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
ROLE: Under the direction of the vice president for bus iness affairs, t he direc tor of student f in anCial services is responsible to admin ister the institutional federal , and state financial aid programs of t he university in a manner consistent with the university's
mission The director is an act ive member of the Enrollment Steering Comm ittee and the recruitment team of the college, serves as a member of the Graduate Financial Aid Committee and is responsible for analys i s and development of financial aid programs for a ll schools of the university
Responsibi lities include developing and implementing organizational policies and procedures within an integrated comp uterized environment, overseeing the continued impleme ntation of the federal Quality Assurance Program, prov iding fo r staff development, and communicating w ith the university and i ts commun ities (schoo ls, agenc ies, pa rents , students and others) on beha lf of the financ ial aid program
The director also prov ides ove rsig ht o f the current student accounts rece iva b le of th e university
Required qua lifications incl ude: bache lor's degree, experience in financial aid systems; ab ility to ana lyze and develop univerSity-wide financia l aid programs; ability to communicate verbally and in wr iting with students, parents and camp u s faculty and administration ; customer service ori entat ion ; ability to work accurately with attention to detail and proactive problem solv ing ; superviso ri al experience ; computer experience (da t abase, spreads h eets, and word processing) Desired qualifications include: master's degree ; experience in a small u niversity setting ; accou nting expe rience or course work; experience w ith Datatel Colleague softwa r e Sue Kliewer, Human Resource Director, Fresno Pacific University, 1717 S Chestnut, Fresno, CA 93702; e-ma i l skliewer@fresno.edu; ph. (209)453 -2245; fax (209) 453-5502
Mennonite Central Committee see ks applicants for the position of director of Middle East programs. This is a three-year assignment based in Winn ipeg, Man. All applicants must exhibit a commitment to a personal Christian fa ith active church membership and nonviolent peacemaking Qualifications include experience in the Middle East, understanding of Middle Eastern polit ics and churches administrative and commun ications skills and will ingness to travel For more information contact Dwight McFadden or Becky Stahly , MCC Human Resources in Akron, Pa. , (717)859 - 1151 or e-mail inq@mcc org. Appl ications due Dec 18, 1998
MCC's magazine, a Common Place, brings you a hopeful vision of the world through MCC workers serving in the name of Christ Read remarkable stories and find out how you can make a difference.
To receive a Common Place, free of charge, five times a year, call or email us today! U.S. (717) 859-1151; dlf@mail.mcc.org Can. (204) 261-6381; canaua@mail.mcc.org
Bom Llil
Mennonite Central Committee
LET'S TALK ABOUT IT
A GUIDE FOR GROUP INTERACTION
SESSION 1: Volunteering for church programs
Based on "Solving the volunteer puzzle, " page 6.
GET READY - Getting started
• In what area of church ministry do you most enjoy volunteering?
GET SET - Examining the issues
1. In what ways are Jenna, Tom and Loretta's situations the same?
2. According to the article, what are the keys to increasing volunteers?
3. What are the differences in the recruiting process of the various congregations mentioned?
GO - Applying ideas to the way we live
1. As you review the tips given for calling out volunteers, which is most needed in your congregation?
2. To what extent and how do you think spiritual gifts should influence the calling out and service of volunteers?
3. What is it that most encourages you to volunteer? Or to not want to volunteer?
SESSION 2: Child-rearing
Based on "Why 'Growing Kids God's Way' might not work, " page 9.
GET READY - Getting started
• Do you think of yourself as someone who was grown God's way?
GET SET - Examining the issues
1. Identify and describe the three potential dangers given by McDuff.
2. To what extent are these dangers possible in all parenting styles?
3. How does one know if a child is demonstrating good behavior because of their own heart attitude or the expectations of parents or other leaders?
GO - Applying ideas to the way we live
1. With which, if any, of the dangers do you agree?
2. What would suggest as the best ways to guide a child's heart toward openness to Christ?
3. How does your congregation equip people for parenting? If you are a parent, in which of the areas discussed, would you most like help or encouragement?
SESSION 3: Balancing intentionality
Based on Ph'lip Side, page 14.
GET READY - Getting started
• What is something you intended to do today that didn't happen?
GET SET - Examining the issues
1. What happens when "higher purposes" go to peoples' heads and they become preoccupied with the outcome?
2. Review I Corinthians 9 and list Paul's intentions.
3. What can we learn from the examples of Paul and Jesus?
4. Can our commitments to intentional goals become sin? How does one know when it happens?
GO - Applying ideas to the way we live
1. Are you a person who can enjoy the moment? If not, do you know why?
2. Have you had someone "be" with you recently? Is there someone with whom you could "be"?
3. What does it mean for you to "have a higher purpose without neglecting the call to have fun and make money"?
SESSION 4 : Finding common ground
Based on Question 1, Inquiring Minds, page 16.
GET READY - Getting started
• To what extent have you asked the reader's question?
GET SET - Examining the issues
1. Hein says the responses given in the first paragraph carry an element of truth. What is it?
2. Of the various responses of believers to the contemporary scene, is one more biblical than the others? What Scripture do you think would apply?
3. Why are we not more deliberate in the church to recognize all age groups?
4. Give some examples of ways in which Jesus ministered to all ages.
GO - Applying ideas to the way we live
1. What are some ways more emphasis could be given to all age groups?
2. Is there a way to avoid the categorizing of ministries and opinions according to peoples ages? (i.e., It's the old people who come to prayer meeting and only like hymns.)
3. What are the key unifying dimensions of church life and worship that can bring all ages together, regardless of personal opinions and preferences?
Thinking caps
THE OTHER DAY I read an ad for "the world's first line of computers especially built for Christian families ."
It's an interesting claim. But as far as I can tell, the computer is no different than the ones I use - except that by purchasing this one, the buyer also receives eight "free" Christian software programs.
It's amusing to think that some folks might be tempted to purchase a "Christian" computer. Humorous, that is, until I find myself buying into something without careful thought because of the label.
When something is described as "Christian" or "biblical" it seems we too often take off our thinking caps and accept
information and guidance. But the evangelical community holds a wide range of opinions on politics, poverty, divorce, feminism and parenting, to name a few. No one theory or opinion can irrefutably claim to be "Christian," "evangelical" or "biblical;" a number are often valid.
The fact that there is seldom one "Christian" viewpoint means we need to think together as congregations and as a denomination. Thinking together means taking the concerns of others seriously and exploring together matters of faith and life. It means critiquing together what we hear from Christian experts. Thinking together can help us recognize when we're reacting to a situation out of fear and paranoia rather than with trust in one another and whatever is being presented as authoritative, even sacred. For example, "Growing Kids God's Way" (GKGW), the parenting curriculum reviewed in this issue, is described as a "biblical" parenting approach by its authors, Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo. GKGW is very popular even though some of the advice offered goes against current pediatric practice.
Serious problems arise when we allow other Christians, because they are Christians, to have the final word on a matter
called to reason together and to leave the comfort of our
snuggeries behind.
The body of Christ is in our God. Thinking together means becoming educated about both sides of an issue and respecting those who hold an opinion different from our own. Yet so often when I subscribe to a magazine or purchase a book, the material is written by authors with whom I agree. And when I discuss a controversial topic, I talk with people who agree with me because disagreement
without donning our thinking caps. In the case of GKGW, at least three things happen.
• We accept advice without checking out credibility. Critics note that the Ezzos' lack medical expertise; he has a master's degree from Biola University's Talbot School of Theology and she is a registered nurse with two years of pediatric experience about 20 years ago. Given this, we should balance their advice with that of other experts.
• Relationships can be damaged or broken. In addition to the warning Ken McDuff offers about damaged parent/child and child/peer relationships, GKGW principles also affect relationships between adults who have completed the course. It seems you either follow the program, making you a member of your congregation's Ezzo Club, or you're out in the cold -a lonely place to be if you're a new parent looking for support.
• Children can be physically harmed. The Ezzos' parenting principles regarding newborns have proven to be downright dangerous. For some infants, scheduled feeding as outlined by the Ezzos results in dehydration, insufficient development and other complications .
I often look to Christian professionals and experts for
makes me uncomfortable.
Theologian Cornelius PlantingaJr describes this attitude as "cocooning" and the place we consequently find ourselves as a "snuggery." The body of Christ is called to reason together and to leave the comfort of our snuggeries behind.
Thinking together can be done informally - like the other day at coffee break when we discussed a book mended to one of our coworkers that promoted some unusual ideas about prayer.
Thinking together can be done formally, as will happen later this month when denominational leaders from Canada and the United States meet together in Calgary, Alta., to review the second draft of the Mennonite Brethren Confession of Faith.
In fact, Board of Faith and Life chair Lynn Jost speaks of the important role the faith community has played in the revision process. In the July Leader, Jost complimented us as a denomination for thinking and "not just emoting "
Let's agree together to live with our thinking caps on. The cap might be uncomfortable at times, but with our thinking caps on we will be better equipped to discern and evaluate advice given in the name of Christ. -CF
