The Messenger Vol. 42 No. 20 November 17, 2004

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 42 NUMBER 20 NOVEMBER 17, 2004

Why Believe in Peace?

At the heart of the gospel

Why Believe in Peace?

John J. Friesen

Jesus... challenges followers to move from love of neighbour to love of enemy.

This rules out killing enemies to protect neighbours.

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EACE is at the heart of the Christian gospel. The Bible teaches it, the early church practiced it, Anabaptists rediscovered it, and the present world needs it.

Peace is often seen as an absence of war. The Bible’s view of peace is much broader.

It sees peace as rooted in salvation provided by Christ.

The invitation to believe in Christ is expressed as conversion, repentance, and being born anew. One of the Greek terms often used for repentance in the Bible is metanoia, which means a radical turning around— changing one’s mind and life (Matt. 9:13; Rom. 2:4; Acts 20:21).

People are called to leave their sinful ways, including war nad violence, to take up Jesus’ way.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus refers to peace as an area of conversion or transformation: “Blessed are the peace makers, for they will be called the children of God.” (5:9). In 5:38–42 he calls his followers to move from retaliation to reconciliation, from an eye for an eye to turning the other cheek. In 5:43–48 he challenges followers to move from love of neighbour to love of enemy. This rules out killing enemies to protect neighbours. A person of peace loves both and must act accordingly.

In Matthew 18:15–20, Jesus outlines those who have experienced reconciliation with Christ should deal with broken relationships among each other.

The aim is reconciliation and restoration of relationship. The method is face-to-face dialogue, beginning with the parties involved, and including everlarger circles until reconciliation is accomplished. Only if dialogue

breaks down must one recognize that fellowship has been broken—and separation is acknowledged—but the possibility for restoration continues to exist.

Paul uses similar images about the nature of peace in Romans 12. “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them” (vs. 14). “Live in harmony with one another” (vs. 16). “Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all” (vs. 17). “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (vs. 18). “Beloved, never avenge yourself” (vs. 19). “No, if your enemies are hungry, feed them” (vs. 20). “Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good” (vs. 21).

Strong as these biblical peace teachings are, they are strengthened by peace being anchored in the salvation story.

The Bible makes clear that God deals with human sin not by retaliation, nor with “an eye for an eye,” but with forgiveness. We are to forgive one another as God forgives us (The Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us, as we forgive those who trespass against us”). The cross becomes the symbol of God’s non-violent response to hatred and violence.

Many Christians believe this message of peace. Some, however, try to negate it with other texts. Romans 13:1–6 is one: “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God.” Some interpret it to say that Christians should practice peace unless a government orders them to war. Then the government’s order “trumps” the Bible’s teaching and Christians should obey the government.

Some have refined it to say that Jesus’ teachings on peace apply to the personal and interpersonal areas of life, while Romans 13 applies to the public and civic areas.

Romans 13 need not be read so as to imply absolute obedience to the state. It can also be understood as consistent with the rest of the New Testament’s teaching on peace. It is a call by Paul for Christians to live as good citizens, to obey laws, to acknowledge good that governments do, and to recognize this good as coming from God. It does not mean that a government can “trump” or negate clear teachings of scripture. To do so is to accept that Christians should sometimes act contrary to the character to which they have been converted in Christ.

Another attempt to negate biblical teachings on peace is to point to the Holy Wars in the Old Testament, where God orders the Israelites to fight against their neighbours. Sometimes the Bible sees these wars as calamities, but in other cases they are seen as good and faithful acts. The question is, “Do these wars negate the New Testament’s teachings about peace. Do they negate the character of the cross of Christ?” I don’t think so.

The Holy Wars need to be seen within the context of God’s revelation. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus acknowledges that earlier teachings, such as an eye for an eye, were appropriate for their settings. Now Jesus is revealing a new word and way of dealing with evil and conflict. In the Old Testament, writers THE MESSENGER

also point to peace as God’s intention for humanity: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation” (Isaiah 52:7).

The early church believed this gospel and was a peace church. It lived a life of reconciliation, did not resort to violence or revolution, and accepted suffering. Two important third-century churchmen, Origen and Tertullian, confessed that the church is a community which serves Christ as Lord and therefore does not fight for any earthly lord or emperor. To take human life, they said, is to contradict faith in God because God is love.

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hen Constantine converted to Christianity in 313 AD, this view of peace changed.

As Christianity became the official state religion, the emperor needed Christians in his army to have a viable military. Christians accepted military service, though the church tried to maintain Jesus’ teachings about living in peace, forgiving the enemy, and showing love.

To address the church’s dilemma about its interpretation of biblical texts, Augustine developed a just war theology. He said that Christian love was primarily a matter of inner attitude, not actions. One could love the enemy in one’s heart while physically killing him out of duty. He outlined criteria that a war would meet to be justifiable, including no massacres, no attack on civilians, and no revolutions.

During the Middle Ages the Waldensians, a small reform movement in southern France, rejected Augustine’s just war theology. In the Reformation, Anabaptists followed this direction, arguing that a true church should be free from government control—free to acknowledge Christ as Lord in all of life, including personal and civic. They rejected just war theology as an excuse to avoid the Bible’s peace teachings.

They believed that peace includes reconciliation between God and humans (salvation), and between November 17, 2004

humans in their everyday relationships (discipleship, nonresistance, forgiveness). They also said that peace is communal.

The church as the body of Christ is a community of peace, and defines the character of all who join it.

The acceptance and forgiveness of a theology of peace extended to the enemy, who they hoped could be won to Christ.

To kill the enemy was to cut short the missionary mandate. A peace theology, in which they were not tied to any state, freed Anabaptists to become international missionaries.

Anabaptists did not come to their view of peace easily. At first some, like Hans Hut, eagerly waited for Christ’s return when they thought God would rally Christians to a great battle against the ungodly. Those in the Peasants’ War and in the city of Muenster used violence to bring about religious, social, and economic reform. It took about a decade before Anabaptists in different regions clarified their views about peace.

Mennonites through the centuries have believed in peace.

At times they acted as though peace only meant the rejection of military service; at times they saw a tension between peace and evangelism. Both misunderstand a biblical view of peace.

Peace is not passive—merely avoiding military service. Peace is active, calling people to be reconcilers and peacemakers.

Peace and evangelism are inextricably intertwined. Peace with God—salvation—lies at the heart of the message of peace, and provides the motivation for a life of peace.

Some ask: “What if someone attacks me, my family, or a stranger?” In such a situation, is it not justifiable to use violence or resort to war? The foregoing discussion provides the approach to such questions. Though no one can with certainty predict what one will do, my intention is to act within my character as a person converted by Christ. I would choose peaceful options to protect and rescue those attacked. Would I turn to violence, use a gun, or go to war? No. These options are not in character with my being a Christian.

A theology of peace begins with worship and is nurtured by it. As a faith community regularly worships God, recommits itself to each other, and studies the word of God, it lays the foundation for a theology of peace. There it affirms the transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ (being born anew, converted), and proclaims Christ’s peace to all of church and society. Christians can then speak a message of peace to a sinful, broken, warring, and hurting world. Jesus’ message of peace applies equally to conflict between neighbours and to the T war in Iraq. M John J. Friesen, Ph.D., teaches peace studies, Mennonite and Church history at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg (earlier at CMBC since 1970). He has edited a book of articles about Mennonites in Russia and translated the Confession of Peter Riedemann, a sixteenth century Hutterite Anabaptist. John and his wife Dorothy have three married children and five grandchildren. They are members at Fort Garry Mennonite Fellowship where John has served in various capacities, including as lay minister.

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The

editorials

Messenger EDITOR Terry M. Smith

What are your representatives doing?

Eden Health Care Services, Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, MCC Canada, Mennonite Disaster Service, Mennonite Foundation of Canada, Mennonite Historical Society of Canada, Mennonite World Conference, Steinbach Christian Schools, Evangelical Anabaptist Seminary program—and more.

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E HAVE elected or appointed representatives on a number of national and provincial institutions, but how often do some of them report to our conference churches?

Is it sufficient that they report to the General Board, or that they or full-time representatives submit written reports and provide verbal snippets at ministerial or conference council meetings?

To better serve us, these representatives

would do well to send to our 52 churches regular reports with their perspective on the organization’s activities. These reports can say more than, “This organization is doing a good work, and I am learning much.”

When you think of who represents us on conference-related institutions, how many names come to mind? How many reports from them come to your churches, apart from the delegates’ packages?

Sometimes we talk about how churches should take more ownership of matters.

Our representatives can help churches do this. In an age of high technology— and even the comparatively low cost of stamps—some of our representatives T could, to our benefit, do more. M Terry M. Smith

Hockey players, MPs, and fair play

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OME locked out NHL players and sitting Canadian Members of Parliament appear to have an income that is higher than their sense of fair play.

Recent reports indicate that most NHL hockey players re-emphasized solidarity against team owners who want to impose a salary cap—while the average NHL salary is said to be $1.8 million per year.

A salary of $1.8 million is the same as $40,000 for 45 years—more than many Canadians will make in a lifetime. Is that fair?

Players might argue that the market bears this, but the lockout appears to say, “No, the market can’t take this.” The real question isn’t a salary cap; it’s whether society should pay sports figures and team owners (and movie stars, for that matter) such salaries.

Perhaps psychiatrists could figure out why society does pay such salaries, yet we struggle to develop enough psychiatrists in Canada—partly because training is so long and expensive and we don’t pay enough of them a proper salary. We should put more funds into producing more psychiatrists, less into producing professional hockey players.

Players have trained hard since they were children and a hockey career is 4

short; they argue that they need to gain what they can. Who says, however, that they need to gain a life’s earnings in a few years (or a single season) in the NHL? Lots of farm boys and girls have worked just as hard from early on, and most are hardly pulling in proper salaries at this point in the Canadian farming sector.

Some Members of Parliament get salaries that are less than what they could get in the public sector. But they still rate in the top few percentile in Canada and few members land in financial obscurity after their service.

Further, they benefit from a comfortable pension available after only a few years of service. Yet many Canadians have inadequate pensions after longer service, provinces hesitate to set a livable minimum wage, and some people live on the pittance of a disability pension.

Likely, not all NHLers or MPs are out of touch with fair play. We can hope not.

But some of them could benefit from a period of reflection in the penalty box for unfair conduct in society. And some of them—but only if they need to—could seek out a psychiatrist’s couch, if they T can find one. M Terry M. Smith

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the pub-lication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform, instruct and inspire: inform concerning events and activities in the denomination; instruct in godliness and victorious living; inspire to earnestly contend for the faith.

Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

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Subscriptions: $12 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84). Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. In cooperation with the EMC Conference Council, members and adherents pay through their church.

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MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 22 – December 15 (copy due December 3)

THE MESSENGER

letter

Loewen letter appreciated I am writing in appreciation for and the great blessing I received from the letter in the September 8, 2004, issue of The Messenger: Whatever happened to holiness? “Whatever happened to preaching and practicing repentance and repentant living? (See Acts 17:30; Rev. 2-3).”

Thank you, Glenn Loewen. May you never lose your “burning heart passion,” and cool off after a while and settle into the “real world.” May the Lord continue to strengthen you is my prayer.

Thank you also, Mr. Smith, for the encouraging editorial The grace to move past our failures [Sept. 22, 2004].

Margaret F. Friesen Steinbach, Man.

Evangelical Mennonite Conference Financial Update As of October 31, 2004, the conference shows a financial shortfall of $265,668 receipts under disbursements. This compares with the same period of the past three years when the shortfalls were $160,717 in 2003; $188,432 in 2002 and $227,151 in 2001. May we be encouraged to support by our prayers and gifts the services and mission programs of the conference!

Thank you.

EMC Board of Trustees

MCC receives U of W global citizenship award MCC has received the University of Winnipeg’s inaugural Global Citizenship award at a ceremony for the graduating class Sunday, October 17. It’s an initiative by its new President and Vice-Chancellor Lloyd Axworthy.

President Axworthy had recommended MCC for the award.

MCC’s commitment to peace building can be seen globally through its many initiatives to end hunger—spanning from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, and currently in Darfur, Sudan.

Locally, MCC is known for its work in a variety of areas— from conflict resolution to speaking out against the ravages of war, from addressing ecological devastation to increasing awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

“In my work as Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, I found myself in many desperate situations in remote and war-torn corners of our world,” said Axworthy. “And, more often than not, there before other relief or government agencies would be an MCC worker.”

Ronald J. R. Mathies, executive director of MCC, and Don Peters, MCC Canada executive director, responded at the

award dinner. Mathies also accepted the award and addressed Sunday’s Convocation.

Mathies accepted the award on behalf of all MCC workers who serve as peace witnesses in refugee camps, and in areas of civil unrest and natural disaster. Regardless of the inhumanity they observe, they have adopted MCC’s commitment to integrate peacemaking into relief, service, and development.

Even in the midst of strife, famine, and extreme poverty, MCC workers keep their focus on helping all people.

Addressing the Convocation, Mathies said the award is certainly a recognition of the importance of the global humanitarian enterprise, and specifically also the work of MCC’s sister agencies, Mennonite Disaster Service, Mennonite Economic Development Associates, and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

“Graduates, don’t turn your backs on your people—the people of the globe,” Mathies encouraged the grads. “Rather, ‘do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.’” MCCC

Ron Mathies, executive director of MCC, accepts the University of Winnipeg Global Citizenship Award at the fall Convocation, October 17, 2004.

November 17, 2004

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faith in action Doris Penner

Does the Christian have a responsibility to the ?

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poor

t seems ironic that in some parts of the world, Feel guilty? people forage for food—happy for anything to stifle Most Christians in our circles are among the the gnawing of an empty stomach—while in other privileged. Do we feel any sense of responsibility or parts, people try to drum up enough self control to would we rather not look hungry people in the eye lest say no to the abundance which comes in the form we feel guilty? Do we avoid involvement by deluding of endless choices. Daily hunger—which leads to ourselves into believing the problem is so enormous malnutrition, starvation and finally death—is one of nothing we can do will make a difference? Or do we the starkest characteristics of abject poverty which still need convincing that the biblical mandate for affects a billion people on our planet.

Christians is to be concerned and actively involved in Poverty wears an ugly face: it is marked by a constant alleviating the pain that comes from poverty? struggle to survive, despair at seeing your children suffer, Jesus’ message and ministry should long have settled homelessness which drives families to shantytowns and the matter for us. When the question of what to do hopelessness that things with the poor, naked and will ever change. W. Stanley Do we still need convincing that the imprisoned was put to Him, Mooneyham describes it he answered bluntly, “When biblical mandate for Christians is to this way: “…poverty is like you refuse to help the least a bleeding wound which be concerned and actively involved of these my brothers, you never heals, hemorrhaging are refusing to help me” in alleviating the pain that comes strength and life out of the (Matt. 25: 44–45). The body…” (What do You Say to from poverty? most outstanding quality a Hungry World?). of His life on earth was While the majority of the poor live in what are compassion for the underprivileged and needy. called “developing countries”—Haiti, some Asian In fact, the ethic of care for the poor is woven and African countries—there are also impoverished into the fabric of all of Scripture—from the laws regions within developed nations such as the God set out for His people in the Old Testament to inner core of large cities or geographically isolated Paul’s letters to the churches in the New Testament. places such as the Canadian north or the American It was Gandhi who said the Christian faith is best Appalachians. While poverty in our own country may propagated by applying it rather than preaching. not have all the most horrific characteristics, the His words: “When will you Christians really crown despair, hopelessness and degradation are the same.

Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace and proclaim Him Then there is the other segment of the world which through your deeds as the champion of the poor and revels in plenty—a world where people go to bed oppressed?” every night stuffed with rich food, plan pursuits of It follows then that Christians—who have pleasure with money resting in fat bank accounts, and knowledge of the poor—will feel compelled to show feel secure in a future where the young have the means the love of Christ by asking, “What can I do?” It should to pursue an education and establish a good life and be obvious that providing the hungry with bread the old will be taken care of. prepares the way for the “coming of grace”—the There is something wrong with a picture where a opening of the door for the Spirit of Christ to enter. small percentage of the world consumes most of the resources, where ragpickers in large cities are able A panel discussion on poverty will take place during Conference to make a living off what North Americans throw Council meeting, December 4, at Portage la Prairie, Man., away, where foreign “aid” under the guise of altruism sponsored by the EMC Social Concerns Committee. It begins at 2 benefits mostly the donor countries. p.m. and is open to the public. Doris Penner is chair of the SCC. 6

THE MESSENGER

with our churches

50 year anniversary of outreach in Woodlands, Man. Rosenort EMC: In August of 1954, three young men from Rosenort—Frank Kroeker, Melvin Dueck and Ed K. Friesen—were sent to conduct a Vacation Bible School program in Woodlands, Manitoba. They taught over 50 students.

The following year, these men were joined

by Johnny Loewen, Dave L. Friesen and Alvin Brandt. In the years that followed, many small communities invited our church to use their schools to conduct these programs. The church sent small teams of enthused young men and women to teach under the supervision of the Home Missions Committee and 28 various A VBS team from Rosenort EMC served in Woodlands in 2004. communities were reached with the gospel in this manner.

We are also in prayer for Trevor and Rebekah Friesen who On July 5–9, 2004, Rosenort EMC sent out a group of are preparing to go to the youth with directors Amos and Wendy Fehr to do outreach Congo with Youth Mission through VBS for the 50th year in Woodlands, Manitoba. Rev. International (TREK) leaving Frank Kroeker (an original member of the first outreach from Vancouver on November team) and his wife Marge served as teachers in this 1 for an eight-month term. anniversary year. It was an exciting time.

The church grew again The team commuted to Woodlands daily. Many youth who as Janae Dueck and Andrew have attended Woodlands VBS move out of that community Paul were baptized upon to Winnipeg. We trust that many of those who have made confession of faith. We are commitments at VBS continue to love and serve the Lord. pleased to have Abe and This program is one that our youth enthusiastically serve in Tina Zacharias, formerly of year after year, and willing workers have to be turned away.

Mexico, join us as members Pastor George Toews with Andrew Sixty-five youth attended the fall retreat held September Pahl, and Janae Dueck on their by transfer as well.

10–12 at Camp Arnes with speaker Evan Schellenberg of Lorilee Scharfenberg baptism day August 29.

Arborg.

Besides the weekly Bible studies, our youth have numerous outreach and service opportunities. At the local MCC sale, our youth raised $6500.00 with the Wheelbarrow of Coins and had opportunity to serve hearty German Mennonite food to auction attendees.

The senior youth delivered a program at Winnipeg’s Union Gospel on September 19. Our junior youth went to the Red River Valley Lodge in Morris on October 3. On October 30, the senior youth will continue ministry at Riverview Health Centre Winnipeg to polio survivors.

Participating in a parent/child dedication held November 19 are: Janice and Danny Reimer with Tyrel James Neil, Our missionary for the Kendra and Wendell Rempel with Owen Erdman James, Sabrina and Ed Giesbrecht with Isaiah John, James and month of October was Alex Ang Penner with Joshua James Menno, and Pastor Dennis Friesen.

Loewen who is serving with Betty Barkman the SBC TESOL program in the Ukraine until Christmas.

Parent/child dedication at Pansy

November 17, 2004

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VBS and pastoral change Creighton, Sask.: We held our annual VBS in Creighton on August 3–8. Although our turnout was smaller than in former years, the 20 children enrolled enjoyed the program. Each morning began with singing, a skit, and a Bible story. A game and a snack were followed by a craft time, and more singing rounded out the morning.

At the end of Friday’s session we held a closing to which parents were invited.

Children sang songs they had learned during the week and parents were able to see one of the skits that the children had enjoyed. A lunch and a time of fellowship followed. A hearty thanks to all who worked together to provide Sun Country Farm 2004!

August 15 was Pastor Alex Suderman’s final service. We have appreciated his ministry as interim over the past 12 months and wish God’s blessing on him and Carla as they pursue further training at Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary in Fresno, Calif. They came to us as a couple a year ago, but left as a family— Jackson Alexander was born June 10.

We are thankful to God for giving us a permanent pastor. Scott and Natalie Koop, and their children Spencer and Marissa, arrived in Flin Flon at the end of August to take up the leadership of Northern Fellowship Chapel (Creighton, Sask.) and the Mennonite Brethren Church (Flin Flon, Man.).

Margaret Moorhead

VBS in Creighton saw 20 children attend and enjoy the antics of Paul Reimer (summer intern), pastor Alex Suderman and Froggie the Puppet, and Sandra Schroeder (Aunt Annie).

Scott and Natalie commissioned On Sunday morning, October 3, 2004, the Northern Fellowship Chapel of Creighton, Sask., and the Flin Flon MB Church held a joint commissioning services for their new pastoral couple Scott and Natalie Koop.

A new pastoral couple is commissioned: Manitoba MB conference pastor Herb Kopp; Joe Buie and Eckhart Buhlmann, Flin Flon co-moderators; Natalie Koop holding Melissa; pastor Scott Koop with son Spencer; visitation pastor Lorne and Margaret Moorhead; NFC moderator Deb Odegaard; and David Thiessen, EMC conference pastor.

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A fond farewell was held for Pastor Alex, Carla and Jackson Suderman.

David Thiessen, EMC conference pastor, spoke on The Call and Blessing of God, based on Matthew 3:13–4:25.

Herb Koop, conference minister of MB churches in Manitoba, led the commissioning service and prayers of dedication. Celebration and fellowship followed with a Thanksgiving dinner.

Other special guests for the occasion included Scott and Natalie’s parents: Vic and Irene Koop of Winkler MB Church, and Herb and Wilma Poetker of Fort Garry MB Church, Winnipeg.

Scott is a recent graduate of Steinbach Bible College. He also attended Winkler Bible Institute and a college in Ontario where he studied architectural technology. Scott grew up attending Vineland (Ont.) MB Church.

He and Natalie were youth sponsors at Fort Garry MB for four years. Scott was youth pastor at Steinbach MB Church for four years.

Natalie has taught elementary school in Ontario and Manitoba, most recently in Steinbach. Scott and Natalie have two children, Spencer and Melissa.

Sandra Schroeder

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Picnic, VBS, and pastor’s messages Marlene Dueck and Leo and Eva Reimer came, did His job so successfully, then for their previous years of service. left. He handed the job over to fallible In July, PV congregation participated human beings and told them from with Morris churches with a service here on in they would represent His during the Stampede—a unique body here on earth. What an awesome experience. Our pastor Darren Plett responsibility! was the speaker and his text was “It is almost overwhelming, but it John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you, should also inspire us to think, plan, my peace I give unto you.” It was very pray, strategize, and passionately work comforting and relevant in this age of our hearts out in an attempt to be all unrest, busyness, and confusion. that God has intended us to be. There VBS was held in Sanford is no other pursuit in life so worthy of from July 5–9. The results from our time and energy. There is no other attendance and responses were venture in life that will last for eternity greatly enthusiastic. Alternative than the building of the church of Jesus weeks of VBS allowed Rosenort Christ. It will last forever. Amen!”

Fellowship to unite with our Elly Rempel church in using the same backdrops and materials. The theme for this year was God’s All Star Champions.

Living Fountain camp was again a highlight for our campers and workers alike.

The dates were August 9–21.

There were many shortterm mission trips among our Graham and Kristy Graham, leaving our congregation, were younger folk, which is always recognized for their worship contributions. a challenging and rewarding churches will benefit from the gifts of experience. We, who stay at home, will be treated to folly reports at these young people. God bless!

Recognition was also given to our missions conference to be held some dedicated youth leaders of past October 29–31.

Our pastor also reports on this years—namely, Luke and Twyla Bartel, Rhonda Friesen (Loewen), Annette summer’s messages: “The message Eidse, and Lynn Rance. With the themes were taken out of John 13–17.

Pastor Darren preached on Father’s Day. Throughout coming fall, a new couple is expected Then we used John 17, and Jesus’ prayer his summer’s messages, he was reminded, “There for the future of the church, as is no other venture in life that will last for eternity to step in on a more permanent basis. a springboard into a series than the building of the church of Jesus Christ.”

The service and the eating were of messages on the church. held indoors because of the blustery It amazes me that Jesus weather, but after lunch the outdoor activities got going. There was horseback riding, horseshoe contests, baseball, cycling events and more. A weiner roast closed the day of blessing and bonding.

A commissioning service for two newly elected deacon couples was held in July. Chosen to join Rick and Karen Friesen (deacons for many years) were Rudy and Grace After lunch, horseshoe teams hit the pits.

Loewen, and Ed and Annette Eidse. A Horseback riding was an activity at Pleasant note of appreciation Valley’s church picnic. goes to Clarence and Pleasant Valley: With June came our annual church picnic, held at our local arena, and it was also on Father’s Day. In spite of no Sunday school, it was a full service. During the worship and singing time, Graham and Kristy Friesen were recognized for the many years of participation and leadership in the worship teams. Both are not career training, which necessitates them living in Winnipeg. Some other

November 17, 2004

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Family camp and VBS held Morris, Man.: June 11–13, 2004, was a wonderful weekend for our church family. We “retreated” to Roseau River Bible Camp and just enjoyed so much the spiritual, physical and relational interaction with one another.

During our worship gatherings, Darryl Klassen, Kleefeld EMC pastor, challenged us with the topic If This Church Were a Reality Show, Would We Survive?

Do we practice unconditional love?

Am I ready to accept what the group decides? Who do I need to forgive?

When I mess up, will I be shown grace?

Am I easily offended? Do I harbour bitterness? There is a price to pay—it drains us emotionally and blocks the Holy Spirit in our lives.

For the church to be loving, forgiving, and making allowances for each other’s faults is a great witness to the world.

Thanks, Darryl, for giving of yourself and your time.

Rafting, horseback riding, swimming, scavenger hunt, a ball game and fellowship around the tables were all part of making it a weekend we remember fondly.

Chris and Rebecca Eidse joined us on Sunday and shared lessons they had learned during their 10 years of investing in the lives of inner-city youth and their decision to move to North Carolina.

They will be helping smaller churches there to develop strategies for ministry and will need our partnership.

Betty Siemens

A group is ready to go rafting at MFC’s church family retreat at Roseau River.

June 5–9, 2004, our church was filled with over 100 children who came to let Jesus help them Power Up. Five storytellers and 13 teachers studied five parables and stories of Jesus. All the children learned lessons about loving, caring, sharing, acceptance, and forgiving. It was exciting to see so many young teens coming to VBS and the many new and veteran staff who rose to the occasion. God bless you all.

Cliff Reimer

Abbeydale’s summer showers Abbeydale (Calgary, Alta.): Through the spring and summer Abbeydale Christian Fellowship had the joy of showering seven brides with our gifts and blessings.

Brenda Dick

Sara Fehr March 8

Krista Dyck April 24

Alicia Friesen April 29

Deb Dunbar May 1

JoDee Reimer May 1

Colleen Taubert (with Josh) June 15

New pastoral couple arrives at Wymark!

Jaci Reimer June 30

WYMARK EMC: They are here! They are here! Our new pastor and his family—Jake and Katharina Enns. They candidated in June at Family Camp and arrived at the beginning of August. Around the table are Dave Peters, Paul Funk, Pastor Jake and Katharina Enns, and Phil and Helena Fehr with Rachael. On behalf of Wymark EMC, I would like to thank everyone who has prayed us through this year.

Holly Lightfoot

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Purchase Come See What God Has Done from the EMC office.

Copies are $10 each.

THE MESSENGER

Tom and Andrea Warner commissioned Earl Unger of Stony Brook Fellowship welcomed Warners on behalf of the Steinbach Ministerial Association. “We look forward to working together,” he said. “God bless you.”

Ron Penner, EMC moderator and former interim pastor of this church, delivered the commissioning message.

He stated, “A commissioning of a pastor is a significant event.”

His topic was church leadership. He characterized a church as having three different categories of people: Builders, Boomers and Busters. Builders are those who feel the sense of ownership and don’t want too much change. Boomers are more concerned with Art Dueck, Henry Nickel, Ron Penner, and Ruth Penner said prayers relationships.

Busters are at the commissioning service.

Steinbach EMC: The church again has a lead pastor, Tom Warner. A commissioning service for Tom and Andrea was held on Sunday, September 26. At the outset, music minister Camden Rempel explained that we were not honouring Tom and Andrea, but celebrating.

“the louder, the better” kind. They would like to see the church tackle social needs and more.

“Pastors must deal with these three groups,” said Penner. “The world needs the church,” he emphasized. “Strong churches with strong leaders are needed.”

In closing, the church was challenged, “Will you accept Tom as your pastor and leader…and work with him?”

This part of the service closed with several participating in prayer, after which both Tom and Andrea spoke a few words in response to their commissioning.

Warners come to us from Boissevain MB Church where they had been some seven years. Before this Mr. Warner pastored Mennonite churches in Ontario. Warners have five adult children and three grandsons.

Dave Schellenberg

HIV/AIDS infection rate drops in Uganda With faith-based abstinence programs being credited, over a decade the HIV/AIDS rate of infection in Uganda has dropped from 30 percent to six percent.

One presenter has said that safe sex initiatives, such as distributing condoms, are irresponsible and ineffective. “The truth is, there is no safe sex outside of faithfulness in marriage”—a foundational message of True Love Waits, a Baptist-based initiative that has gotten access to public schools.

“One thing my husband used to say is that ‘a thin piece of rubber is all that stands between us and the death of our country if condoms are allowed to become the main means of stemming the tide of AIDS,’” said one presenter.

ABC campaign: (some add D) bstinence before and outside marriage ehavioural change to be faithful to one spouse only ondoms – use them if you fail on points on A and B. ead, if you fail on points A, B and C. Baptist Press

A B C D

November 17, 2004

Sunday, October 3, was Cradle Roll graduation, under the supervision of Helen Thiessen. The graduates are Rheanne, daughter of Gary and Susan Friesen; Evan , son of Eric and Viola Giesbrecht; Gabriel, son of Russ and Ang Koop; Jairus, son of Jared and Cheryl Nickel; Braeden, son of Roanne Plett; Abigail, daughter of Jeff and Corrielyn Reimer; Sage, daughter of Craig and Fran Stoddart. Missing are Kailey, daughter of Boyd and Celia Kellet; Ethan, son of Tom and Sharon Guenther; Brooklyn, daughter of Ron and Monique Kornelsen; Gabriell, daughter of Jacob and Melanie Wiebe; Wyatt, son of Ian and Gwen Smallwood.

Conscientious Objector web site receives award In September 2004 the Association for Manitoba Archives (AMA) awarded the Mennonite Heritage Centre in Winnipeg with its Outstanding Achievement Award for the web site www.alternativeservice.ca.

The web site brings a page of forgotten, and for a long time untold, history back into the public arena. Over 10,000 people claimed conscientious objector status in World War Two and served the country by doing alternative service as teachers, miners, fire fighters, orderlies, loggers, and farmers. They came from across the country from Nova Scotia to BC, and represent many different ethnic and religious backgrounds.

AMA

Tom Warner, our new lead pastor and his wife Andrea, at the recent commissioning service at the Steinbach EMC. Ron Penner, our former interim pastor, had the commissioning address and officiated.

11

writings shared Irma Janzen Micah: A Father Survives the Suicide of His Son, Claude Tremblay (2003, Magog, Quebec). 200 pages, $20. Trans. by Andre Lefervre. Available from author, C.P. 801, Magog, Quebec J1X 5C6.

Reviewed by Irma Janzen, associate pastor at Fort Garry EMC and director, MCC Canada mental health and disabilities program.

Suicide is a word that many people dread and would like to avoid. For Claude Tremblay it is a word that can no longer be avoided.

In this book he shares his journey following his son’s tragic death. He writes with courage, he is vulnerable and his love and passion are evident throughout. He shares of his love for Micah and many happy memories. He shares the pain of distance between him and Micah as Micah grows into adulthood. He shares his feelings of helplessness as a Dad when he was no longer able to relate to Micah as he would like.

He talks about the deep dark emotions he experienced after Micah’s death and the questions it raised, including, “My God why have you forsaken me?” However, he also affirms how he has chosen to forgive and how he chose to believe in God even in the darkness.

He interweaves family history, reading he has done, and works of art, including the sculpture The Illuminated Crowd, he has studied in his journey to healing. Micah had sketched part of that sculpture so that added much meaning to it for Tremblay.

This book is one parent’s journey and could be helpful for others who are processing the suicidal death of a loved one. However, it is one person’s story and everyone will process suicide in his or her own way. In this sense it is not a prescription of how or what to do—rather, a model of how one individual dealt with it.

People who want to understand what loved ones experience when a person commits suicide could gain insight into the intensity of the journey and become more empathetic of others who have experienced a similar loss.

This book does not claim to be a theological treatise on suicide. It is, as I said, one person’s story and readers may resonate differently to the theological implications it presents.

One significant omission or oversight in this book is that there is no discussion as to whether Micah possibly could have struggled with an undiagnosed depression as a teen. Because there is reference to mental illness in his ancestry and because of stressful 12

circumstances in his life as a teen, I wish Tremblay had explored that possibility.

Could it have been depression in this young man’s life that led to a lot of agony that went untreated and led to unhealthy lifestyle choices and eventually to his premature death? While we are not sure that this was true for Micah, it is true for some youth.

After the Storm, by Lloyd and Evelyn Carr (IVP, 1990) is another book about suicide. It brings another family’s story, their perceptions and their learnings. Reading it would complement this story.

Other resources on suicide found at the MCC resource centre in Winnipeg include the videos Remembering Tom: Coping with Suicide (National Film Board); Teen-Age Depression and Suicide (United Methodist Church); Fierce Good-bye: Living in the Shadow of Suicide (Mennonite Media, 2004)—the last also available through EMC. There are MCC brochures: Talk about It: Youth and Depression; Talk about It: Youth and Suicide. An article, a couple of stories and other titles are listed on our website at www.mcc.org/suicide.

SBC publishes its 7th Bible Study guide SBC’s new Bible study guide “Come Let Us Worship” discusses various aspects of worship in the church and as a lifestyle. Written by Don Thiessen each lesson is based on a passage of Scripture in which the life of worship is taught.

13 lessons, $6

Ready for fall Sunday School classes and small groups.

To order call the SBC office 204-326-6451 For more information contact SBC 204-326-6451 • 800-230-8478

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Rea To

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www.sbcollege.mb.ca 2 column ad 4.75 X 4

THE MESSENGER

1 co 2.25

a woman s journey of faith

I

LOOKED with a great deal of unease at the string of horses waiting for us. More specifically, at the horse eyeing me. The local guide had said he had a horse for each person: A tall horse for a tall person, a slow horse for a slow person, a sick horse for a sick person and so on.

As I stepped on the mounting block and looked in my horse’s eye, I was not optimistic. The guide hadn’t said he had a scared horse for a scared (correction: absolutely terrified) person. However, my limbs moved and I settled on this horse’s back with the sure knowledge that I would immediately tumble into the dust.

We were in Petra, in Jordan. Our tour group had already experienced an extraordinary bus ride from Amman down what was called the King’s Highway. This was a narrow two-lane road through endless desert filled with thundering semi-trailer trucks and speeding cars. Our bus driver delighted in passing and cutting in at will. The washroom break at the only rest stop in the four-hour journey had been memorable for lack of a better term.

I had known in the back of my mind that we’d have to ride horses for the kilometer trail winding to the ancient city of Petra. But I really wanted to see this spectacular sight, so was between a rock and a hard place—or horse actually.

It turned out I had received the “fast horse for the fast person,” which was not a good match at all. The Bedouin lad leading the horse kept trying to make it run and only stopped when I threatened not to give him a tip. That he understood!

Once we had settled down to a more comfortable walking pace, and I had unclenched my fingers a bit to relieve the death-grip on the reins, I began to look around and enjoy the truly awesome surroundings.

The narrow trail wound between high rocky cliffs, sometimes so narrow that they blocked the sun. We were in a deep shadow-filled canyon, and the spirits of the ancient peoples who had called this their home seemed to hover around us.

Apparently the first inhabitants were Edomites, descendants of Esau, who was called Edom after he sold his birthright. The Bible speaks of their capital city Sela being captured.

Their descendants, the Nabateans, had been able to repel invaders over the years because of this narrow entrance to their kingdom. The Romans finally conquered them when they located the water source for Petra.

Then for centuries it was lost and then rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer.

And we were about to discover it also. After the winding ride through the steep rock walls, we came around a bend and there before us was a stunning,

Betty Koop 40-metre high massive building carved into the red sandstone cliffs. It is called The Treasury, but is believed to be the tomb of a king who ruled from 88–84 B.C. We dismounted; I’d made it without falling off! We entered the huge, empty chamber of the tomb and our group of 45 Mennonites couldn’t resist singing in this great cathedral of stone. Low in the Grave He Lay and Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow echoed and re-echoed in seemingly endless praise. Glorious!

We then toured the rest of these vast and amazing ruins showing the architecture and skills of a so-called primitive people. Too much to really take in: Carvings in stone walls, ruins of homes, tombs, and an ancient amphitheatre carved out of rock.

I had difficulty mounting my horse for the return journey because there was no block to stand on, but finally made it. Then I conquered another fear and stopped to buy a little brass jug for my collection. I had not dealt with any of these peddlers before, leaving that to my husband.

But this little jug is now a reminder to me that if you face your fears, you can overcome them. I don’t remember that I prayed, but I probably did!

Admittedly, this is a minor fear in the great variety of fears that may attack us.

I have been re-reading Mike Mason’s excellent book The Gospel According to Job (Crossway Books, 1994).

His observations on fear are intriguing.

He claims, “Most Christians are much more afraid of other Christians than they are of demons—and no doubt rightly so, since in Christ we are more powerful than demons.” He urges us to break free from the fear of being a people-pleaser and come into the freedom of being a God-pleaser.

Mason lists many other fears common to mankind, then says, “…all these phobias must be rolled up into one big ball and pushed up the hill to Calvary. For like other kinds of suffering, fear will never be completely alleviated in this life. Only as we bring our fears before the cross of Christ can their sting be extracted, their poison neutralized, their utter groundlessness exposed” (p. 292).

But, Mason goes on to say, we need to fear God. He quotes Luke 12, where Jesus says we should not fear those who can merely kill the body, but fear Him who will honour the choice we have made as to our final destination. “Jesus is telling us not to waste our fear on anyone less than God Almighty. This is the fear that is the beginning of wisdom.”

At Petra and facing fear

November 17, 2004

13

weddings KROEKER – FEHR: Brian Alexander, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kroeker of Edmonton, Alta., and Sarah Lynn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Fehr of La Crete, Alta., were married on April 10, 2004, in Edmonton. The couple lives in Calgary, Alta.

PLETT – KROEKER: Jeremy Plett and Erin Kroeker were married on April 30, 2004, at the Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church in Steinbach, Man. The couple lives in Winnipeg, Man.

MARGARET DUECK 1917–2004

Margaret was born in Kleefeld, Manitoba, on January 31, 1917, to Henry R. and Katharina Dueck. Her mother died when she was four years old. Her father remarried in 1923 to Elizabeth Brandt.

Margaret was the second youngest of 13 children. She was predeceased by her parents and her siblings. Her husband Martin B. Dueck died in 1979. Margaret leaves to mourn her daughter Marion and husband Dave Warkentin of Steinbach, Man., and their children Dale, Caris and Nathan Wylie, Leanne and boyfriend Steve Doerksen; as well as her son Melvin and wife Sara Dueck, of Kleefeld, Man., and their children Bethany and Michael.

Margaret married Martin on May 30, 1943. Martin and Margaret ran a honey farm for most of their married life.

Although their home was in Kleefeld, their beehives were in many areas of Manitoba. Even though Margaret had polio since 1955, she always worked hard taking care of her family’s needs, cooking meals for hungry workers and tending a large garden.

After she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Saviour, she was baptized by her father and joined the Kleinegemeinde Church in Kleefeld (later the Kleefeld EMC). A very important part of her life was the sewing circle, until she moved to Steinbach eight years ago. Also very important to her was the women’s Bible study. The women continued to come from Kleefeld these last eight years. That was definitely a highlight for her.

Margaret was a prayer warrior; regularly praying for her family, nieces and nephews and missionaries. She had a strong faith in the Lord.

Margaret, at age 87, passed away June 29, 2004. The funeral service was held at the Evangelical Mennonite Church in Kleefeld on July 3.

Her Family

14

PLETT – DYCK: Duane Michael, son of Dennis and Irene Plett of Calgary, Alta., and Krista Renae, daughter of Benjamin and Elma Dyck of Edmonton, Alta., were married on May 22, 2004, at Abbeydale Christian Fellowship with Rev. Rod Reimer officiating. The couple lives in Calgary.

KLASSEN – DUNBAR: Gilbert Dale, son of Lawrence and Mathilda Klassen of Morden, Man., and Deborah Ann, daughter of Dan and Doris Dunbar of Calgary, Alta., were married on June 12, 2004, in Morden.

SHARKAWI – FRIESEN: Haney Sharkawi and Alicia, daughter of Gary and Darlene Friesen of Calgary, Alta., were married on June 12, 2004, in Calgary.

WEBBER – UNRAU: Kurt Webber and Melanie Unrau were married on June 18, 2004.

PLETT – CALVERLEY: Galen Mark, son of Dennis and Irene Plett of Calgary, Alta., and Dale Tamara, daughter of Brad and Kathy Calverley of Orillia, Ont., were married on June 24, 2004, in Regina, Sask. The couple lives in Caronport, Sask.

WALL – FROESE: Rick Wall and Janette Froese were married on July 3, 2004, in St. Thomas, Ont., with Randy Fehr officiating. The couple lives in Aylmer, Ont. ENNS – REIMER: Ryan Scott, son of John and Elda Enns, and Jacquelyn Theresa, daughter of Wilmer and Pearl Reimer, all of Calgary, Alta., were married on July 31, 2004, with Rev. Charles Koop officiating.

LOEWEN – THIESSEN: Albert Loewen and Josie Thiessen were married on August 14, 2004, at Mount Salem EMC, with Jaime Froese and Ron Zacharias officiating. The couple lives in Hamilton, Ont. DUERKSEN – PETERS: Doug, son of Dave and Gudrun Duerksen, and Cara, daughter of Lorne and Ingrid Peters, were married on August 20, 2004, at Kleefeld, Man. NEUDORF – BASHUK-REICHEL: Ryan Neudorf and Odessa Bashuk-Reichel were married on August 21, 2004, at the Home Street Mennonite Church with Layton Friesen of Winnipeg, Man., officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg.

PETERS – WIELER: Jeremy Kent, son of Frank and Annie Peters of Roseisle, Man., and Rebecca Faye, daughter of Faye Wieler of Roseisle, were married on August 28, 2004, with Pastor Randall Krahn of Swift Current, Sask., officiating. The couple lives in Roseisle.

coming events December 3 EMC Ministerial MacGregor EMC MacGregor, Man. 204-326-6401 December 4 EMC Conference Council Portage Evangelical Church Portage la Prairie, Man. 204-326-6401 March 19–21, 2005 EMC Ministerial Retreat Speaker: Dave Reimer of Winnipeg, Man. Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre Pinawa, Man. 204-326-6401 July 1–3, 2005 2005 EMC Convention Peace River Bible Institute Sexsmith, Alta.

204-326-6401

births ENNS – to Darryl and Heather Enns of Elm Creek, Man., a son, Dylan Carter, on February 14, 2004.

JADDOCK – to Dave and Julia Jaddock of MacGregor, Man., a son, Jedidiah Paul Wood, on March 10, 2004.

BUECKERT – to Nicole Bueckert and Jeavan Lobo of Portage la Prairie, Man., a son, Mason Ripton, on May 10, 2004.

SIEMENS – to James and Angela Siemens of Morris, Man., a daughter, Kamryn Brooke, on July 30, 2004.

WIEBE – to David and Denise Wiebe of Anola, Man., a daughter, Shaylee Debrielle, on August 10, 2004.

FRAMPTON – to Darren and Patricia Frampton of Pelly, Sask., a daughter, Trinity Reneau Frampton, on August 11, 2004.

NEUFELD – to Johan and Leanne Neufeld of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Tava Laurenne, on September 1, 2004.

PLETT – to Irvin and Gloria Plett of Fisher Branch, Man., a son, Bryce Jared, on September 2, 2004.

ENNS – to Isaak and Tina Enns of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Thomas Joseph, on September 12, 2004.

DRESEN – to Tom and Allison Dresen of Wawanesa, Man., a son, Alec Douglas, on September 20, 2004.

KNUTSON – to Vern and Lana Knutson of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Olivia Grace, on October 1, 2004.

DUECK – to Darcy and Connie Dueck of Roseisle, Man., a son, Bradley James, on October 12, 2004.

GEORGESON – to Jeff and Betty-Anne Georgeson of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Thomas J., on October 21, 2004.

THE MESSENGER

shoulder tapping Mennville EMC, a rural church near Riverton, Man., seeks a half-time youth leader/pastor to give spiritual leadership and be a program director for a youth group of approximately 25 to 30. Call for information or send resume to Kenton Barkman, Box 576, Riverton, MB R0C 2R0. Phone 204-3785623 or e-mail kenton@mts.net.

and training in the food service industry or be willing to be trained. Cook is responsible to the food services director. Housing, partial board, salary, medical and dental benefits provided. Send resume to RRBC, 204-320 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z1; Email: kim@redrockbiblecamp.com.

The Archives Committee, under the EMC Board of Church Ministries, seeks a part-time volunteer archivist to work out of the Steinbach, Man., office.

Tasks involve the organizing, filing and tracking of historical materials within the vault and overflow areas in the building. Assets are an interest in history and a skill or willingness to operate a computer database; an exceptional asset would be the ability to read German. For information, contact executive secretary Terry Smith at 204-326-6401 or emcmessenger@mts.net.

Abbeydale Christian Fellowship (ACF) Church of Calgary is seeking a lead pastor with strengths in preaching, teaching and pastoral care. Duties would also include mentoring lay leadership. ACF is a medium sized congregation (170-200) in east Calgary seeking to disciple members and attendees, encourage their gifts and involvement in the church, and reach out to the neighbourhood and families of church adherents. ACF is part of the EM Conference.

Please submit resumes in confidence to Sear chCommittee@Abbeydale.org by December 1, 2004.

Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) is looking for a fulltime lead pastor. Pelly is a small rural community (300 people) in east-central Saskatchewan. The congregation averages 40 on Sunday mornings and is the only evangelical church in the community.

Please forward your resume or questions to the search committee by mail at Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0 or phone Eugene Prokott at 306-5952287, Lewis Anfinson at 306-594-2151, or e-mail woodlandsigns@sasktel.net.

MDS workers are needed! Canadian volunteers, remember to connect with the MDS office in Winnipeg prior to making service arrangements directly with an MDS project.

This will ensure that you receive a border crossing letter, travel assistance/receipting details and other important MDS information.

Extension office: 866-261-1274.

Braeside EMC in Winnipeg, Man., is seeking a fulltime associate pastor of Spanish ministries. The applicant should be familiar with the Anabaptist perspective and willing to be guided by the EMC statement of faith. Responsibilities to include: pastoral care, teaching, and outreach. The Spanish part of the Braeside congregation has an average attendance of 60 people.

Please forward your resume and references to Braeside Evangelical Mennonite Church, Attn: Spanish Ministry Search Committee, 1011 Munroe Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2K 1J7.

Inner City Youth Alive is an organization in the North End of Winnipeg, Man., that reaches youth and their families in the community. It seeks a program director that should possess pastoral gifts and be ready to support and encourage the staff team. Phone: 204-5828779. E-mail: icya@mts.net. Website: www. innercityyouthalive.org.

Head cook sought for year-round employment at Red Rock Bible Camp in southeast Manitoba.

Must work well with people, be service oriented, be a team player, agree with the camp’s mission and statement of faith, and have experience

November 17, 2004

MCC Manitoba seeks support workers for a new fetal alcohol spectrum disorder program. They will work as a team to provide one-on-one support for an adult living with FASD, have excellent communication skills and at least one year of relevant social services experience or education.

Full- or part-time, morning and evening hours are available. Contact program manager Jewel Reimer at 204-783-0897 or e-mail mccmfasd@mts.net.

La Crete Christian Fellowship seeks a full-time youth pastor, an energetic leader with vision who has a geniune love and passion to reach out to young people and the ability to be a partner with us to build a strong ministry with the young people in our congregation and community.

Join dedicated parents and adults eager to be led and students ready to grow and learn.

This person will work primarily with high school and junior youth, and also with children’s ministry. We’re eager to incorporate new ideas and capitalize on the gifts and talents of our youth pastor.

This person should have some understanding and respect for EMC theology, diversity, and traditions. There is a generous salary, health insurance, and a new house to live in. La Crete is located in beautiful northern Alberta, eight hours north of Edmonton. To find out more about La Crete and the church, see www.lacretechamber.com; www.telusplanet. net/public/lccfc; e-mail: lccfc@telus.net or lfem@telus.net; phone: Frank Winsor at LCCF, 780-928-3783.

BLF Canada, a non-denominational evangelical mission that publishes and distributes Christian literature for the French-speaking world, seeks a director. If you feel that God has equipped you for this position with Biblical Literature Fellowship, see our website at www.blfusa. Send your resume to BLF Canada, Box 42145, RPO Ferry Road, Winnipeg, MB R3J 3X7.

MCC Manitoba seeks a full-time program team leader. A member of the MCCM

management team, this person supports the work of program staff and coordinate overall goals and objectives of the team. Contact Janelle Siemens at jms@mennonitecc.ca or Sol Janzen at sjj@mennonitecc.ca or 204-2616381 for information. Application deadline is December 10, 2004. Women and members of visible minorities are encouraged to apply.

MCC workers are to exhibit a commitment to a personal Christian faith and discipleship, active church membership and non-violent peacemaking.

Gospel Mission Church (EMMC) seeks a full-time senior pastor to serve a growing congregation of about 170 in the city of Winkler, Man. Primary responsibilities are preaching, teaching, training, and developing congregational leaders to reach out and disciple others. This congregation has a large percentage of younger families, active youth, Sunday school, home Bible studies and ladies ministries. Contact Jake Giesbrecht, Gospel Mission Church, RR1 Box 565 Grp 39, Winkler, MB R6W 4A9. Call 204-325-5414 or e-mail jgiesbrecht@gvsd.mb.ca.

EMC Board of Missions seeks a pastor for Hillside Gospel Church in Chihuahua, Mexico for spring 2005. Attendance averages 80 on Sunday mornings. The applicant should be conversant in Low German and have gifts to help the congregation to develop local leadership and organizationally. A two- to three-year commitment is preferred, but a shorter term can be arranged. Contact Lester Olfert, Foreign Secretary, EMC Board of Missions, phone: 204-326-6401, fax: 204-326-1613, e-mail: lolfert@mts.net.

Altona EMMC, a congregation of 650 people, seeks a full-time pastor of youth and education. This individual is responsible to set direction and vision for the youth programs, and to serve in education.

Submit resume and applications or questions to Karl Dreger, Altona EMMC, Box 907, Altona, MB R0G 0B0; e-mail: karldreger@hotmail.com; phone: 204-3248223.

Executive foreign secretary for the EMC Board of Missions.

Responsibilities: Administration, visiting Latin American mission fields, recruitment, promoting EMC missions, and reporting to the board. Qualifications that are important considerations: A ministry degree, a working knowledge of Spanish, and missions/ ministry experience. Some training may be provided. Starting date: Mid-2005 (negotiable). Send inquiries and resumes to: Chairman, EMC Board of Missions, 440 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5, or e-mail: ernieloewen@yahoo.com.

15

kids’ corner Loreena Thiessen

Which

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FREEDOMS do you enjoy most?

OVEMBER is the month to remember. The red poppies pinned to shirts and coats remind us that long ago in two world wars many brave men died, so that the people who did not die could live in freedom. Poppies bloomed everywhere on the battlefield, and they were chosen to help us remember the fallen soldiers. This is why we wear the poppy.

Before our ancestors came to Canada they lived in countries where kings ruled and had great power.

There were no governments like we have today. The king had the power to take whatever he wanted even if it belonged to the people. He had the power to make any law he pleased, punish anyone who displeased him, and even kill him.

In time people began to think more about their lives and what was fair and just. The people demanded more freedom and protection for their lives and their rights. They believed that God wanted them to live more freely, to be able to make more choices for themselves, and to have governments that protected them. This time was called The Age of Reason.

They believed that all people were equal and that each one should have enough food to eat, should have a meaningful job, should be able to live in good health, and have a safe home. They should be able to voice their thoughts and ideas without being afraid that these things would be taken away from them. They also believed that they should be allowed to worship God in a way that was satisfying and peaceful.

In 1620 the Pilgrims came to the United States from England for these very reasons. They wanted freedom to worship God and good laws to protect them.

Since then, for almost four hundred years, people have come to Canada and the United States to live in freedom. Many have come from countries where they could not enjoy the freedom we experience every day.

Can you name some things you do and enjoy freely?

You can think, speak, and act freely, as long as you don’t hurt anyone. You can play music, sing, and dance, to express your feelings. You can go to school and develop a special skill. You can travel and enjoy the beauty of our great country. You can choose your friends. As an adult you can decide for yourself which PAGE 16

job you would like to do. And you can worship God every day with others who want to do the same.

Which of these freedoms do you enjoy most? Ask your parents which freedoms are important to them.

Activity: Make a remembrance wreath You will need: • • • • •

4 pages each white and red construction paper scissors pencil glue 9-inch paper plate

What to do: Trace your hand four times on white paper. Trace your hand four times on red paper. Cut out the hands.

On each hand write an activity you enjoy.

Cut out the centre of the paper plate. Glue all eight hands, alternating colors, on the cut out rim of the paper plate to form a wreath. Hang in a window to remind you to remember.

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914