The Messenger Vol. 43 No. 4 February 23, 2005

Planning a

spiritual retreat

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 43 NUMBER 4 FEBRUARY 23, 2005

The

editorials

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happened partly because some interpretations of Scripture were judged as both improper and harmful.

Protestant leaders—Reformed, Lutheran, Anabaptist and others—were concerned about how Christians interpreted Scripture. They debated the Bible in detail and were prepared to hold each other extraordinarily accountable for the skill, or lack of it, displayed in interpreting it and how it was understood.

Christianity is a faith rooted in God’s revelation within history, and in Scripture the events are recorded and interpreted.

What happened in history is foundational for our faith. Based on good evidence for that history and God’s opening our eyes, we come to accept Scripture as the written Word of God. Scripture is the written touchstone of our faith. This takes it far beyond being only my Bible or our Bible. It is the Bible.

Christians today still need a steady hand and sharp tools to correctly handle T “the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). M Terry M. Smith

French Canada and the EMC

T’S time we planted a French-speaking church in Canada.

In the 1970s, the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada had a special interest in church planting in Quebec, with a language program for pastoral couples. Some denominations have an on-going concern for this part of central Canada.

Church history in Quebec is linked to the Roman Catholic Church and the on-going cultural revolution. Pray for Catholic leaders and many disaffected Catholics—for admission in mistakes made, for additional spiritual insight, and for a richly biblical congregational life (the same prayers we could use to reflect on our own church history).

A church in French-speaking Quebec?

If that’s too much of a leap for us, what about establishing a church in a French 2

EDITOR Terry M. Smith

What does my Bible say?

ECENTLY, a reader asked a question in another magazine and the columnist began a reply, “I am not sure what Bible you read, but mine involves….” To start that way was unhelpful.

To say “my Bible” short-circuits Scripture’s interpretation by suggesting Scripture might become what an individual interprets it to be.

A Christian, whether from pulpit or pew, is to avoid giving the impression, “I don’t interpret Scripture; I just tell what it says.” No one ever just reads Scripture.

Whoever reads Scripture, interprets it; this is inseparable.

The Protestant Reformation fought hard for individuals to possess, read, and interpret Scripture. But good Protestants can be bad interpreters.

The Bible is not just mine; it is ours.

When we interpret Scripture individually, that interpretation is to be tested against that of the wider community of faith (1 Cor. 14:26-27, 36-38).

The Protestant Reformation never said that one interpretation is as correct as another. Far from it! The Reformation

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Messenger

community within the five provinces where our churches now exist?

Our churches have been involved in various ways within French-speaking communities, but we have yet to establish a French-speaking church. Are any of the EMC vacation Bible schools held in French-speaking communities conducted at least partly in French?

We send workers to Spanish school for service in Latin countries and some of our associate missionaries learn French to serve in Africa, but, sadly, we have not encouraged or expected church leaders to learn French to serve more widely within Canada.

To be French is to be part of a long, rich culture and heritage in Canada.

We need to work harder to develop a T congregation within that heritage. M Terry M. Smith

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication 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.

THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the Board of Church Ministries of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba.

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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The magazine and its publisher, the Board of Church Ministries, are obligated to work within the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. Mailing information: All correspondence, including undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: The Messenger 440 Main Street Steinbach, Manitoba R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: emcmessenger@mts.net On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 6 – March 23 (copy due March 11)

THE MESSENGER

Conference Council

The Church and the Poor Just outside of Portage la Prairie, Man., Conference Council members participated on December 4, 2004, in a discussion on The Church and The Poor, sponsored by the national Social Concerns Committee (Board of Ministers and Deacons).

Chair Doris Penner asked questions of Steve and Fiona Thiessen, who live in Winnipeg’s inner city; Edwin Friesen, stewardship consultant with MFC; and Menno Plett, African program officer with World Relief Canada. (Questions and answers are paraphrased.)

Doris read Psalm 146:3–9. “Now it’s clear when we study Scripture that care for the poor and the oppressed is at the very core of God’s nature,” said Penner. “This is only one of hundreds of references in the Bible that speak about defending the rights of needy, of feeding the hungry, liberating those who are in bondage, and executing justice.”

“With a billion people in the world going to bed hungry every night, do we have a responsibility to try and ease some of that pain, especially in light of the fact that we are the wealthy ones, consuming far more than our due?” she asked. She says she shudders when she reads Scriptures that pronounce judgment on “Christians who ignore the problem.”

Fiona Thiessen said Christ has called her to serve and to love in the inner city—“the least of these,” drawing on Matthew 25. Steve said he began his involvement “by accident,” but it has developed to “living Christ on a day-today situation.”

Edwin Friesen said, not being “a third-

world person,” he, like many EMCers, grapples with how his faith and lifestyle intersect with people in need. For Menno Plett, being involved in poverty issues for many years has been a way “basically of living out my faith.”

What defines poverty? Steve: It goes beyond money into “broken relationships” with God, others, self.

Edwin: There is poverty with hope and poverty without hope. Menno: Poverty is demonstrated by a lack of sufficient food, clean water, educational opportunities, and health facilities, though a Malian friend interpreted it also as a spiritual issue.

What are the root causes of poverty? Menno: National debt, AIDS, the “euphemism” of free trade, structural adjustment programs (World Bank and International Monetary Fund), militarism. Fiona: Mental illness, inadequate social assistance for single moms, negative ways of coping with money, historical reasons for native poverty, single men who don’t take responsibility to work or for family.

How do we work with people?

Edwin: Churches are uncomfortable responding to needy people. Our giving practices are too tied to getting a tax receipt. We should be less concerned about setting precedents. Steve: We need to avoid cynicism and can meet a range of needs other than money.

Why do we help more overseas than at home? Edwin: It’s easier to write a cheque for overseas, where problems seem easier to fix than at home. Menno: Rather than send a Christmas hamper, a donor was challenged to build

Social Concerns Committee chair Doris Penner asks questions of Fiona and Steve Thiessen, Edwin Friesen, and Menno Plett.

February 23, 2005

relationships on a Manitoba reserve, which involved time. “That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be sending your cheques.”

Why are EMCers generally so blessed with wealth? Menno: Some talk about blessing, while others talk about a curse. We are blessed with a responsibility to ask hard questions about how we became so wealthy. Was it an accident, a blessing, or sometimes the use of power? Edwin: We are stewards. Steve: Our needs also seem to grow as we become wealthier.

How can our wealth be a curse?

Menno: We have developed ways of rationalizing, like a pastor who plays the stock market, using stewardship to mask greed. Edwin: John Wesley said that prospering Christians will lose their spirituality, unless they give.

Terry M. Smith

Some comments from those gathered: • A pastor said his church was described as only for rich people and that some members might look down on someone with a worn pair of shoes.

• While there are different definitions of poverty, we need to guard against conveniently reinterpreting it to avoid facing the stark, physical, economic poverty of many people in our world—some who live on less than a dollar per day.

• Food issues are more a matter of politics than of science (Menno Plett).

• In Winnipeg there can be a problem with children not getting enough food, even though the money might be there (Fiona Thiessen).

• Hi, my name is Wally, and I’m addicted to materialism.

• One panelist tries to get rich people to invest; another panelist identifies with poor people, yet depends on rich people to fly him around the world. Thank you for making yourself vulnerable in the discussion today.

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Spiritual retreats: How do we make them work?

Irma Janzen

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THE MESSENGER

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OU MAY have heard the term spiritual retreat and may wonder if you should explore this.

It could be that you have heard the term as something done by leadership people in the Catholic tradition, but have never thought about it as something Mennonites would do. But they can and do and I hope that this article will encourage some readers to try a spiritual retreat and encourage others to continue what they are doing.

Maybe you are feeling quite stressed because of work or family tensions, or maybe you are feeling a need for direction. Perhaps you simply have a hunger and a thirst within yourself that doesn’t go away. Maybe you wonder if you’re into a mid-life crisis. You may be wondering what you can do about it.

You may be asking if a spiritual retreat would be helpful. At the same time you may be wondering what you would do if you tried.

Any of the above reasons and others warrant a spiritual retreat. A specific time set aside for a retreat can make a big difference in our lives, and consequently also have an impact on our relationships with family, friends and colleagues.

Spiritual retreats need to be fashioned by you for your specific need and character. No two of us are exactly

alike. Therefore, no two of us will do spiritual retreats in identical ways.

However, we can learn from each other and adapt as it suits us. The ideas I am about to suggest are only to start you thinking and lead you to what works for you. Incidentally, what works for you now might not work for February 23, 2005

you in five years because we are growing and changing, and our needs and styles may change.

Some people need longer retreats, while others need shorter ones. Some people need them more often than others. Times when there is a lot of stress in our lives are good times for retreats. However, times of change, times of decision making and times of personal drought are good times as well. Longer retreats may sound formidable to many people. Finding time even for a short retreat is not easy for most people, but that may be the best place to start. For the single parent of young children to think of even a half-day can feel impossible. However, most of us find time for what is really important to us. When a church begins to see the importance of spiritual retreats it may be very ready to give the single parent a weekend for a retreat.

Sometimes a spiritual retreat, A cup of coffee and taken at the right a time to journal or time, may help to prevent being read may be a good seriously stressed place to begin and out. Some people do better at then move out into booking regular the wonderful world retreats into their of God’s creation daybook. Other people tend to be where worship may more spontaneous come easily. and do a retreat when it seems right. Many people find a retreat at high stress times to be significant because it helps to relieve stress and find objectivity. The reason to do a retreat is not so you can accomplish more, but sometimes that is an actual outcome.

Different people need different amounts of time for retreats. A day retreat works well for many. Some people

need a few days or even a week, whereas others find a half-day to be long enough. I find that half-days work well for me on regular basis, but that once or twice a year I need a day or more.

Locations for retreats vary as well. The most

significant criterion is that it is a place that is quiet and away from our regular work and play locations. It also needs to be away from people, unless you’re meeting with a spiritual director.

Some people find that a particular room in their home is a good place. Other people find that they need to get away from home to a quiet place and one where there are no things that need to be done. Some good locations include retreat centres, church buildings, art galleries, parks and the wide open spaces of the countryside (cell phones should be left at home)—or perhaps a combination. For the coffee lover, a cup of coffee and a time to journal or read may be a good place to begin and then move out into the wonderful world of God’s creation where worship may come easily.

Some people who travel for work add an extra day for personal retreats and others retreat in airports while waiting for 5

connecting flights. There are chapels in many airports. In some you don’t even hear the announcements. You can usually find a Bible, too, if you didn’t bring suitable reading material.

The ideas of what to do or how to do retreats vary widely with our needs, our

personality and where we are at in a particular time.

For many people it is best not to set the alarm clock, but to sleep in and get the needed rest as a way of beginning.

For others a midday nap may be important. Often being properly rested helps us to see things objectively and to be in a position to hear both ourselves, others and God. Some exercise can be helpful, perhaps something of slower, leisurely pace—walking, paddling in a canoe or cycling. This can be a time to clear one’s mind to be ready to absorb and listen or it can be a time to reflect or just to be.

The reason to do a retreat is not so you can accomplish more, but sometimes that is an actual outcome.

Both reading and prayer are significant activities for a spiritual retreat. But how they

are done varies from person to person.

A retreat time may be the time to read large portions of Scripture, maybe a whole book (or two if they’re short), or it may be important to focus on a short passage of Scripture, reading and rereading, meditating and reflecting. It is also helpful to have other reading materials that nurture the soul and spirit.

Again it is important to realise that what nurtures me today may not nurture me next year and what nurtures me may not nurture you.

Often it is as we practice that we find 6

what kind of reading nurtures our soul. One basic guideline for what kind of material might be helpful is that the reading draws us into God’s presence, that it draws us closer to God.

Prayer is important, too, praying in the way that suits you, and stretching a bit at times. It can be spontaneous, or it can be the reading of prayers from Scripture, prayer books, or other written prayers. It can be verbal, or it can be in the form of writing poetry, journalling or writing a letter to God. It can be through dance or music. But most importantly, it needs to express your feelings, joys, sorrows, frustrations, thoughts and questions.

Some of the Psalms express negative emotions and ask difficult questions of God. These can be a model for us in expressing our questions and frustrations in the same way that other Psalms can help us to express our praise, our joys and our gratitude. Prayer needs to allow for time to hear God, too, to listen to Him and to reflect. Learning to listen to God is a whole other adventure that many of us need to practice. The whole retreat needs time so you are not rushed, in order that you can be nurtured and renewed.

Some people find fasting from food significant for a spiritual retreat. Others find the fast from TV,

computer, and phone to be what they need. Some people find that it’s helpful to consult with a spiritual director as part of a retreat. Sometimes an objective person such as a spiritual director can help us to see things we need to learn and it can be lead us to new insights. Other people find that kind of objectivity through reading what some spiritual directors or mentors have written.

Some writers that have been influential in developing my ideas on spiritual retreats include Henri Nouwen, Eugene Peterson, and Joan Chittister.

I hope these suggestions will get you thinking and retreating! I hope they will help you to want to get started on, or encouraged to continue, spiritual retreats. Some may turn into significant experiences in your life; others may simply relieve stress and at other times they may not seem to be that significant.

However, in the long term I believe you and others will be nurtured, strengthened, encouraged and empowered because you are taking time to fill your life with something of high quality.

Really what I’ve said is a paraphrase and an elaboration of the commandment that says, “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8, Deut. 5:12). I believe God knew what was in our best interest when He gave us that commandment!

T Irma Janzen is theM director of MCC Canada’s Mental Health and Disabilities program. She is an associate pastor at Fort Garry EMC in Winnipeg, Man.

THE MESSENGER

with our churches

New pastoral package Pansy, Man.: Skimming back over some highlights of the last half or so of 2004, I can’t help but zero in on our new pastoral package.

When last June we were suddenly once again without a pastor, instead of being depressed or going into a frenzied new search, we called the church together for very specific prayer meetings. By the third such special assembly, the elders came up with a package, and the congregation supported it heartily.

Granted, it is still in its trial run and the elders are sometimes busy honing out the details, but, so far, there have been many encouraging nods of approval from every level of the church. We are thankful.

The team is Dennis and Agatha Friesen, pastor of administration and related general leadership; Leonard and Betty Barkman, pastor of spiritual health and welfare, including counseling, funerals and weddings as required; and Ed and Sabrina Giesbrecht, pastor of youth ministries and pastor in training.

The preaching is on rotation, salaries are minimal, and the spirit of participation is truly heartwarming. Ed and Sabrina are looking forward to being ordained, hopefully in the near future.

The missionary conference we held in October was a real highlight, especially considering that we hadn’t had one for years. The main guest speaker was Larry Janz of Janz Team Ministries, whom we

truly appreciated for his stories and his gut-level bible teaching.

Other key spots were filled by Larry’s wife Christa and by Youth for Christ representatives. Jean Reimer of Wycliffe Bible Translators showed us adeptly how the translation process works.

The weekend came to a climax with a Thanksgiving banquet, which had excellent food and a record attendance.

As usual, the final highlight of the year was the Sunday school Christmas concert. To hear and see the story of Jesus so beautifully depicted, and to have every age group involved, is truly inspiring. For many there was standing room only. Special thanks go to Sandi Falk and the whole staff.

So now we’re all set to face the adventures of the New Year into which we have already proceeded. May you all have a good journey in it!

Betty Barkman

Christa and Larry Janz

Treesbank holds pageant

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For more information contact Christal Penner 204-326-6451 • 800-230-8478 admissions@sbcollege.mb.ca

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February 23,ad2005 1 column 2.25”

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Treesbank, Man.: On the evening of December 23, the Treesbank Community Church basement was the site of a large nativity scene. Sunday school children, along with a few adults, re-enacted the birth of our Saviour. Youth performed a skit that portrayed the need to be thankful and to remember Christ in Christmas. At the end of the evening the children received treat bags and enjoyed them while the adults spent some leisure time visiting.

Lucille Penner

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Got a loonie? Buy a chicken!

Grande Prairie, Alta.: On November 7, our missions committee at Mission Heights Community Church put on a chili and buns supper along with an evening service to highlight missions.

One highlight was to buy a chicken for a dollar, which would provide for a family in a Third world country (a project put on by MCC). For every dollar you spent on a chicken, you got to cut out a paper chicken, colour it, name it, and hang it on the barn that was constructed on the church wall. This way we could see with our own eyes how many chickens were being bought. Everyone was having fun with this. The names of these chickens were quite comical.

The evening also consisted of highlighting various individuals from our congregation who were involved in missions this past year. Cori-Beth Thiessen shared about her trip to Peru this past October. She was gone for three weeks in which she was involved in orientation, two evangelistic crusades, as well as visiting and sharing the gospel in a few mountain villages.

Brad Dyck showed a slide presentation of his trip to Kenya this past July. Brad and another friend from Grande Prairie went with African Inland Mission International, and were there for two weeks. The focus of their trip was to help out a local church by building church benches for them.

Leah Patterson shared about her trip to Romania to work alongside Henry Paetkau and others, to share God’s love with special needs children who

live in the orphanages there. Lenora Klassen updated us as to her full-time involvement with Campus Crusade for Christ in Calgary. It’s awesome to see people being willing to go and be used

by God to reach the unsaved in these different parts of the world.

Also exciting at Mission Heights Community Church is the good problem of having a full house on Sunday mornings. Our board of Elders created

a survey that focuses on the following three questions for the congregation: Whether they favour going to two services, building/renovating the present building, or doing another church plant within Grande Prairie. The congregation is in the process of filling out the survey, so we’ll see where God leads us.

Jen Schroeder

A highlight during MHCC’s missions evening was a chicken purchasing project to help people living in a Third World country. For a dollar donation, each person bought a paper chicken to colour and name; it was then posted on the wall.

High Level holds parent-child dedication

High Level, Alta.: A parent-child dedication was held at High Level Christian Fellowship Church on November 21st, 2004. Dedicating their children to the Lord are:(L-R) Mike and Shelly Komarnicki with Hailey, Pete and Cindy Fehr with Seth, Robert and Leanne Friesen with Kaitlyn, Gordie and Becky Banman with Haley, and Jake and Tina Neufeld with Erica.

Desiree Krahn

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Two 3 hour workshops Friday, March 18, 1–4 pm Logos—A hands-on workshop with a

Shall we gather at The River?

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Portage la Prairie, Man.: Shall we gather at the river? Gather with the saints at the river? Portage Evangelical Church is using The River, a retreat centre just outside of Portage, for our Sunday worship and Sunday school.

The move took place in September 2004 because the sanctuary wasn’t big enough to hold the growing congregation.

The church building at 502 5th Avenue in Portage is still used for the pastors’ offices and weekday meetings.

Where do you find The River? Take the bypass and turn south just west of Day’s Inn, go 1.7 kms on the Yellowquill Trail and you’ll see the sign for The River and Portage Evangelical Church.

Many exciting events have happened in 2004. The church hosted the EMC Conference Council meeting at The River on December 4, 2004. It was good to have a choir for Christmas under the direction of Danita Ruston and Tracey Friesen.

Jordan Ronald and Kim Kornelsen were wed at the church, with a reception at The River.

Catherine Epp

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Baptized were Melissa Moman (pictured), Dan Moman, and Meghan Moman.

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The nursery is filling; numerous parent-child dedications have happened: (left) Glenn and Mary Loewen with Natasha, Steve and Bonnie Hildebrand with Geniko; (middle top) Katie Kornelsen with Caleb; (middle bottom) Lyall and Kate Wood with Gabriel; (right) Lisa Ott and Adam EisBrenner with Zoe.

February 23, 2005

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What Anola did for Christmas Anola, Man.: “What did you do for Christmas?” Many people find this a perfect conversation starter after December 25.

What did Anola Fellowship Chapel do for Christmas in 2004?

Our Christmas concert this year was titled Christmas for all the World. As a mother and her children baked cookies in preparation for Christmas, the mother discovered that her children had the idea that some people couldn’t enjoy Christmas since they didn’t have snow, or couldn’t sing our English Christmas carols, for example. One by one their misconceptions were cleared up by the various presentations.

The program was multicultural, with performances representing various countries and nationalities worldwide.

Some of the children had learned how to say “Merry Christmas!” in a myriad of languages, and recited them to us.

Several girls from the youth group “sang” in American Sign Language along with Whitney Houston’s version of Joy to the World. The message woven throughout the concert is summed up in the Congolese hymn sung by all the children. Translated, it means: Happiness for those who have accepted Jesus Sadness for those who have rejected Jesus I want to serve you, Jesus, the Messiah On December 23 the youth group (and a few courageous adults) braved the cold to bring Christmas cheer to community members through carols. We split up into two groups so we could sing at as many houses as possible. It is amazing the fun that can be had singing Christmas carols on our neighbours’ doorsteps.

The preteen girls’ Sunday school class had a special project happening this Christmas. After hearing about the dire straits of an orphanage in Haiti, called God’s Littlest Angels, the girls decided to raise money for the cause. They handcrafted Christmas candleholders and cute wooden snowmen, which the church members bought by donation.

Funds raised amounted to about $500.

Our Boxing Day Sunday morning service was made extra-special with several special numbers arranged

by Anna Damert. Pastor Mel Koop’s message expounded on why Christmas means LIFE for the believer.

Jessica Wichers

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Jessica Melnyk, Lisa Kendall, Hillary Wiebe and Starr Wiebe are among those who presented during Anola’s international Christmas concert.

Hayride, members and ladies’ volleyball Taber, Alta.: The holidays are over and we can breathe a sigh of relief. It’s always nice to get back to the regular routine after all the banquets and programs the Christmas season brings.

Our young adults went on a hayride, singing carols to our church friends.

Although the snowy weather kept some away, those that came out felt blessed to be able to share the Christmas Spirit with people we love.

On December 12 we had a baptism and membership transfer with Pastor Edwin Plett leading the service. Gredel

Enns became baptized and six others made the decision to transfer their membership to our church. It is so encouraging to see our church growing both in numbers and in spirituality. On December 19 Peter and Sara Martens transferred their membership.

The ladies in the church have started a volleyball night every other Thursday evening. It’s a great way for ladies to get out of the house and have a good, sometimes hysterical, laugh. It’s a fun way get to know each other more.

Tina Dyck

New church members in December stand with Lillian and Pastor Edwin Plett (bottom left): Gredel Enns, Nancy Martens, (back) Nick Schmidt, Tina and Abe Dyck, and Mary and Henry Giesbrecht. Peter and Sara Martens (not pictured) also became members this month.

THE MESSENGER

a woman s journey of faith Betty Koop

Susie: A love that serves

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N MY WORK at EMC Archives I identify hundreds of dorm! We were like one big family, which of course included old pictures. One method I use is to call a person I may playing jokes on each other.” She remembers coming to recognize and ask for details. That is how I reconnected bed one night, to find it had been made up as if she were a with Susie. I had known her many years ago in Prairie Rose, patient, rubber sheet and all. but had lost touch.

Then she turned serious. “If you could die from being It was a joy to go to her home and reminisce about scared,” she said, “I’d be long gone!” In the old Invalid the 37 years she had worked at the Rest Haven (and Home the doors were never locked and she was on duty its predecessor, the Invalid Home) in Steinbach. To me alone at night. The old two-story house seemed filled with that spoke of amazing strange sounds. She was scared to go and check but dedication and a God-given forced herself to do so. She love of serving others. prayed a lot!

The love Susie When I asked about One night she smelled her childhood, she told demonstrated, something burning. It seemed me (with a twinkle in her to be coming from upstairs. by faithfully eye) that she came from an She checked carefully, three unusual home: her father times, but found nothing. serving those had married his sister!

Finally she decided to check who could Her grandmother had the main-floor kitchen. A not help lived through a series of canner filled with jars of peas tragedies in Russia before had boiled dry on the hot themselves, may well be the deeper reaching safety in Canada. stove. When she tried to move kind of love we should celebrate on Her first husband died very it, the jars exploded. Glass suddenly, and her second and peas flew all over—she Valentine’s Day! husband was killed when even had peas down her back.

Russian bandits over-ran the What a mess!

Mennonite colonies. She fled to Canada with her teen-aged When the new home was built on Kroeker Avenue, two daughter. There she married a widower with three sons. staff shared night duty so responsibility was not as heavy.

As time went on, one of the sons grew to love the For the last six years of her employment she worked at daughter, and eventually they were married. It must have the present site on Woodhaven. This brought many more been an unusual courtship! changes.

Suppertime was story time. Their mother recounted her “The Lord continued to teach me many things,” she experiences in Russia, some good, many dreadful. Susie continued. “It seemed just being with the residents as was so thankful that her mother, as she aged, had not much as my busy schedule allowed was very important. I reverted back to her youth to live in fear, as did some of loved serving those who needed bed care, trying to make the residents Susie served. But having heard her mother’s them as comfortable as I could, and the bed had to be stories she could better understand the terror these dear made properly!” people were reliving.

“Sitting with a dying person, to give them the comfort of So how did her journey of service in the Rest Haven someone being there, was something I tried to do whenever begin? Susie was employed in Winnipeg when Mr. D. K. possible; but it was difficult to see someone go when I’d Schellenberg phoned and asked if she would consider grown to love them.” working in the nursing home. Her “No” was most emphatic; She loved to talk about spiritual things with those who she simply couldn’t handle being with sick people. were hungry for it. “And,” Susie acknowledged, “at times “However,” she said, “I couldn’t sleep that night.” Finally they encouraged me. For instance, when I did bed-check she prayed with the Psalmist, “Show me Thy way, O Lord.” and would see a resident kneeling by her bed in prayer, The next day she phoned back; all departments needed that was special!” help. So she agreed to start with kitchen and cleaning duties.

Finally, Susie smiled, “I saw some who aged gracefully.

After eight months, she was asked to join the nursing That’s what I want to be like.” From my most enjoyable staff. Again, the answer was a definite “No.” A month later, visit, I’d say she’s fulfilling her desire. when asked again, she reluctantly agreed to try it.

Valentine’s Day is in February; we like to sentimentalize “I looked on this service as mission work,” she said. it with flowers and romantic love. However, the love Susie Wages were low in the church-run institution and time off demonstrated, by faithfully serving those who could not rather limited. help themselves, may well be the deeper kind of love we T “But,” Susie beamed, “we had wonderful times in the should celebrate on Valentine’s Day! M

February 23, 2005

11

stewardship today Edwin Friesen

The blessing and the curse

P

EOPLE who make donations to registered Canadian charities are eligible to receive a charitable receipt. When filing our annual income tax return, we can use this charitable receipt to reduce our taxes payable.

For example, if your giving over the course of a year totalled $5,000, a tax credit of approximately $2,200 would be available to reduce your income taxes payable. Your actual tax credit will vary depending on your province of residence. This $2,200 tax credit effectively reduces the “cost” of your donation gift to $2,800.

When issuing such donation receipts to donors, the person issuing the receipt acts, not on behalf of the church or charity but, as an agent of Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

CRA oversees the rules that govern the issuing of donation receipts and the agency or person issuing the tax receipt is in fact accountable to CRA for extending this privilege to the donor. If the agency

fails to follow the rules, CRA may impose financial penalties or as a last resort rescind its charitable status and receipting privileges. It happens.

The reason the government is willing to forgo taxes is because we, the donors, through our charitable agencies, are helping the government work toward a better society. By offering tax credits, our government is encouraging people to donate to these worthwhile causes. Even the promotion of religion is considered a worthy cause to be rewarded with tax credits.

But charitable receipts are both a blessing and a curse.

The tax credits they generate enable us to give more, but they also have the effect of directing our giving. If our gift is not eligible for a charitable receipt, we are hesitant to be generous, if we give at all.

And since there was no such scheme in existence in Jesus day, looking to the Bible for answers is not very helpful. On second thought, maybe it is. What would our giving be like if there were no tax credits? Why would I give? Who would I give to? How much would I give?

Think of the freedom if tax credits were not a factor. You could pay the rent for the single mom who is between jobs. You could help to pay for the car transmission that your brother had to replace. You could help a new immigrant family buy some furniture.

You could help to pay for your nephew’s college education enabling him to graduate debt free. You could give a personal gift to a missionary on furlough.

You could be spontaneous and give to whomever you wished without having to please CRA or your church treasurer.

Actually, now that I am thinking about it, there is nothing to stop us from doing it now—receipt or no T receipt. So, where is the curse? M

If our gift is not eligible for a charitable receipt, we are hesitant to be generous, if we give at all.

July 10 to August 6, 2005 Team members 18 years of age or older Cost $2,500 CDN See your youth pastor for information, or contact the EMC office at: Project Macedonia 2005 – Paraguay 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba R5G 1Z5 Canada Phone: 204-326-6401, E-mail: emcger@mts.net

For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office: Calgary – Gary Sawatzky, 1-877-717-0708; Abbotsford – Dave Kroeker, 1-888-212-8608; Niagara – Darren Pries-Klassen, 1-888-212-8731, Kitchener – Mike Strathdee, 1-888-2127759, Winnipeg – Edwin Friesen, 1-800-772-3257.

12

THE MESSENGER

I

The Christian Marathon

N THE Olympic Games many athletes experience the elation of winning events and receiving medals. Others experience the disappointment of losing or being disqualified.

In the Christian race, all participants who finish well can win rewards, because winning is not based on speed or distance, but on perseverance and faithfulness. For most runners this is not just a short sprint. From the time this race is begun it is a lifelong marathon. Read about it in Hebrews 12:1–3, 1 Corinthians 9:24–27, Philippians 3:12–14, 1 John 5:3–5, and 2 Timothy 4:7–8.

L. Marie Enns

The Christian life is like a race That by God’s grace we run.

When we give Christ our hearts and lives, Then is this race begun.

Not to the swift the Christian race, But to the faithful ones Who persevere until the end With faith that overcomes.

The course has been mapped out for us By teachings in God’s Word.

Let’s seek to do what pleases Him, Our eyes fixed on the Lord.

So let us not run aimlessly But focused on the prize, To hear our Master say, “Well done!”

When we meet Him in the skies.

Then throw off all entanglements That hinder as we run.

It takes a life of discipline For this race to be won.

The past we need to leave behind, Press on to what’s ahead.

Remember, lest we weary grow, Christ suffered in our stead.

This race is not won just by one, But every faithful one Receives a crown of righteousness When the race, at last, is done!

L. Marie Enns L. Marie Enns lives in Rapid View, Sask.

Abundant Springs 2005 Caronport, Sask.

May 20–23

Abundant Springs Speaker The National Youth Committee is pleased to introduce Matt Wilks as our speaker for Abundant Springs 2005. Matt has been serving full time at Grace Baptist Church in Calgary, Alberta for the last ten years, since graduating from Crown College, Minnesota.

He began by holding the position of youth pastor and two-and-a-half years ago stepped into the role of senior pastor.

His passion for ministry, however, continues to be with students as he plans on returning to this capacity shortly. Highlights in his ministry include leading a team of 60–80 students to Soledad, California, for a 10-day mission trip each of the past ten summers.

Matt and his wife Michelle have two young daughters and are thrilled to be coming to our Youth Conference to challenge the youth to faithfulness as they pursue Christ! Please remember to pray for Matt as he prepares his talks for six sessions.

February 23, 2005

13

MRS. MARY EIDSE 1921–2004

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched. Nor will the flame burn you” (Isaiah 43:1–2).

It has pleased our Heavenly Father to take home to Himself, wife and sister Mary Reimer Eidse on August 11, 2004, at 6:15 a.m. at the age of 83 less one day, at Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach, Man. She was born on August 12, 1921, at Heuboden, near Kleefeld, Man., to her parents David K. and Elizabeth Klassen.

She had to start working hard at an early age as a housemaid. In 1928, she moved with her parents and five sisters to Ekron (southeast of Steinbach) where she got her education. At moving time, Mary, at age seven, and her older sisters Agnes and Katherine, had to chase the cows on foot from Heuboden to Ekron (15 to 20 miles).

She loved flowers and gardening.

Sewing was also one of her interests.

Highlights for her were monthly sister gatherings and breakfasts out in restaurants.

She accepted Christ as her personal Saviour and was baptized upon confession of her faith at age 18.

She was never very strong and was always sickly since a child.

On December 7, 1941, she married Abe Reimer, with whom she spent 50 years of married life. They spent many winters in B.C. for medical reasons. Abe passed away in April 1992.

On October 19, 1996, she married Dick B. Eidse of Rosenort. They lived in Rosenort for four years, then moved to Woodhaven Manor in Steinbach. They spend a number of good years together.

In March 2003, Mary started coughing.

Beginning that April she got very short of breath. Fluid was removed from her

14

chest, which tested positive for cancer.

It was then determined that the cancer was in her left lung, too late for surgery or treatments. She was given two to three months to live.

She has been very much at peace throughout her illness. She immediately started putting things in order, thinking that she’d be gone any time.

The day before her passing, she talked all day about “going home tomorrow.” Just before her nurse went off duty, Mary gave her a hug and a kiss and said goodbye.

She is survived by her husband, Dick B. Eidse, his daughter Minnola and Pete Kroeker, son Peter and wife Carrie and their families; five sisters: Katherine Doerksen, Betty (Walter) Kroeker of Steinbach, Annie (John) Plett, Gertie Loewen of Blumenort, Lillian (Lorne) Loewen of Steinbach; two brothers: Peter (Lottie) Klassen of Neepawa, and Jake (Rose) Klassen of Vernon, B.C.; brotherin-law John L. Penner, and their families.

She is also survived by in-laws and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her first husband Abe Reimer, her parents, and sister Agnes.

We thank Dr. Doerksen and all homecare workers, and main floor hospital staff for their loving care. Thanks also for all visitations, prayers and flowers. Special thanks to Pastor George, and to Larry Hirst, hospital chaplain.

Her Family

weddings PETERS – HILDEBRAND: Stuart, son of John and Elizabeth Peters of New Bothwell, Man., and Andrea, daughter of Ed and Betty Hildebrand of Steinbach, Man., were married on June 21, 2004, at Steinbach EMC, with Hans Rahn of Steinbach officiating. The couple lives in Steinbach.

PENNER – LOEWEN: Darcy James, son of Leo and Shirley Penner of Steinbach, Man., and Pamelyn Debra, daughter of Victor and Frieda Loewen of Riverside, Man., were married on August 7, 2004, in Riverside, Man., with Rev. Amos Fehr officiating. The couple lives in Steinbach.

KLIPPENSTEIN – SAWATZKY: Ryan, son of Neil and Sharon Klippenstein of Steinbach, Man., and Jacqueline, daughter of Bernhard and Katherina Sawatzky of Steinbach, were married on August 21, 2004, at Steinbach EMC, with Hans Rahn of Steinbach officiating.

The couple lives in Steinbach.

BRANDT – PLETT: Carl, son of Dave and Pat Brandt of Steinbach, Man., and Melissa, daughter of Don and Rose Plett of Steinbach, were married on September 13, 2004, at Steinbach EMC, with Hans Rahn of Steinbach officiating. The couple lives in Steinbach.

births FRIESEN – to Blaine and Andrea Friesen of Riverside, Man., a son, Adam Daniel, on August 4, 2004.

FRIESEN – to Garth and Wendy Friesen of Steinbach, Man., a daughter, Aimee Joy, on August 8, 2004.

HIEBERT – to Dan and Tina Hiebert of Birch River, Man., a daughter, Emily Louise, on September 7, 2004.

KELLETT – to Boyd and Celia Kellett of Blumenort, Man., a daughter, Avery Elaynna, on October 4, 2004.

FRIESEN – to Kyle and Laura Friesen of Mitchell, Man., a son, Andrew Kyle, on October 12, 2004.

PAULS – to Andrew and Sherry-Lee Pauls of Domain, Man., a daughter, Emma Rose, on October 13, 2004.

BUECKERT – to Tim and Suzanne Bueckert of Grande Prairie, Alta., a daughter, Daphney Lynne, on October 14, 2004.

UNRAU – to Eric and Amy Unrau of Winkler, Man., a son, Liam Cole, on November 27, 2004.

HEPPNER – to Carl and Kathy Heppner, of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Kezia Ruth Kaylene, on December 6, 2004.

BROWN – to Tyler and Melissa Brown of Kleefeld, Man., a daughter, Makaila Brooke, on December 10, 2004.

HAMM – to Dan and Connie Hamm of Norquay, Sask., a daughter, Shannyn Leah, on December 17, 2004.

WIEBE – to Robert and Priscilla Wiebe of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Jesse David, on December 29, 2004.

EMC Ministerial Retreat for pastors, ministers, elders and deacons (spiritual leaders)

MARCH 19–21, 2005 at the Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre in Pinawa, Manitoba.

Talk to your pastor or call the Conference office (204-326-6401) for more information.

Each church should register as a group.

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 204-378-5623 or e-mail kenton@mts.net.

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.

Call Mennonite Disaster Service (Winnipeg, Man., office 866-261-1274) about volunteering short-term (one to three weeks) and long term (one month or more) or check the website at www. mds.mennonite.net for current opportunities.

Volunteer for a workteam!

May 26–June 10 Caaguazu, Paraguay Training Centre construction Roof and ceiling, electrical Individual cost: About $2,100 (includes airfare from Winnipeg) For applications or information contact: Lester Olfert EM Conference office 204-326-6401 lolfert@mts.net emconf@mts.net

coming events March 2 University of Manitoba student luncheon Speaker: Layton Friesen Room 217-271A, U. of M. Winnipeg, Man. 204-326-6401 March 17–19 The Fifth Sun drama Providence College Otterburne, Man. 204-433-7488 July 1–3, 2005 2005 EMC Convention Speaker Rod Masterson Finding Calm in Chaos Peace River Bible Institute Sexsmith, Alberta 204-326-6401

February 23, 2005

Construction or cooking experience is helpful, but not necessary for bringing hope back to the lives of disaster survivors. All ages 18 and over are welcome.

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.

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.

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.

Is God calling you to use your leadership abilities, management skills and two or more years of cross-cultural experience to serve others through MCC? This year MCC needs people to lead work in Congo, Bangladesh, and its Visitor Exchange Program (based in Akron, Pa.). In 2006, MCC needs leaders for work in Jamaica, Bolivia, Haiti, Tanzania, Nigeria, Mexico and a West Coast director (based in Reedley, Calif.). Plan ahead. Application review begins immediately for 2005 positions. Review for 2006 positions begins August 2005. Contact Charmayne Brubaker at 717-859-1151, cdb@mcc. org or your nearest MCC office for descriptions and information about these openings.

Targeting tentmakers! Are you willing to pursue your vocation in a new setting so that you can more fully use your gifts in the church? Do you have a passion to help those without hope to find Christ, and to be people of integrity in a new community? Are you a team builder? Consider the opportunities available as a tentmaker in a new church plant. E-mail Peter and Trudy Dueck for information at tpdueck@mts.net.

MacGregor (Man.) EMC is seeking applications for a full-time pastor to minister to a congregation of about 140 people. The applicant must be able to relate well to all age groups. If interested, please contact Bruce Unger at 204-685-3177, email bruceunger@mts.net, or by mail to Pastoral Search Committee, c/o MacGregor EMC, Box 133, MacGregor, MB R0H 0R0.

Full-time pastor needed for community church connected with Mennonite Church Canada in Burns Lake, B.C., 2 1/2 hours northwest of Prince George. Attendance is around 85 plus; good building with room for growth. Church serves people from a wide range of church backgrounds, making them open to God’s choice of pastor

from another denomination. People are ready for positive changes to draw those who seek the Lord or to be encouraged. For information and salary negotiations, contact Rob Wiebe at 250-698-7334 or rcwiebe@futurenet.bc.ca.

Are you a church planter? Are you a visionary person with entrepreneurial abilities? Do you have a passion for God and an ability to relate to the culture around you? Are you flexible and adaptable? Perhaps God has uniquely gifted you to be a church planter. E-mail Peter and Trudy Dueck at tpdueck@mts.net to discover more about the qualifications and the opportunities for church planting in Canada.

A full-time assistant program director is needed for Red Rock Bible Camp. This position will begin September 1. Duties include camper follow-up and assisting the program director with the summer camp program, retreats, and hosting rental groups. Resumes can be e-mailed to kim@redrockbiblecamp.com or call Kim Coursey at 204-326-9784 for information.

MCC Bolivia seeks immediately a coordinator of Mennonite colony work in rural areas around Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The term is three to five years.

The coordinator is responsible for a team of six to seven workers and for overall guidance, planning, evaluation, and administration of the work. For information, call Marsha Jones at MCC Canada, 204-261-6381, or check out the web site: www.mcc. org/servicetree.

Executive Position

Applications are invited for a part-time (60%) administrative position with the EM Conference, responsible to the Board of Trustees and the General Board. This position includes the role of chief financial officer and requires training and experience in financial management.

Administrative leadership and office management skills are essential. Good oral and written communication abilities are required.

For information or an application form, contact the office at 204-326-6401 or Ron Penner, EMC Moderator, at 204-255-8062. Applications should be in by April 30, 2005.

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.

Note: Both positions are open to male and female applicants.

15

kids’ corner Loreena Thiessen

‘Every good and perfect gift comes from God’ (James 1:17)

D

O YOU like to get gifts? Do you have a favorite gift?

On specific days we expect to receive gifts. One of those days is our birthday. Christmas is another.

Sometimes we get gifts at Easter time or on Valentine’s Day. Most gifts cost money. Gifts we value highly are gifts of diamonds and gold. One reason we value them is because they last a long time; they don’t wear out. Instead, as they age, they become more valuable and their price goes up.

One example of old treasures are those found at the sites of shipwrecks. Silver coins, bars of silver and copper, and brass bells, are greatly desired by collectors and museums, who pay a high price to get them. They have value because of what they are made of and because of their history. They tell some of the story of the event they were a part of.

But not all gifts are treasures that cost money. The Bible talks about different gifts. Our abilities are gifts.

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul calls them spiritual gifts: wisdom, knowledge, healing and faith. God says that his gift to us is eternal life; Romans 6:23. It is the gift of life in heaven forever.

In Acts 3, Peter and John give the lame man the gift of health, and the gift of walking. Do you think he valued the ability to walk more than a gift of money?

Money would disappear quickly once he used it, but if he could walk maybe he could work and make more money.

Jesus gave the gift of life and health to blind men, a woman who had been sick for twelve years, a boy out of control, and several people who had already died.

What are you good at? Do you have musical ability?

Are you good at drawing or painting? Music helps PAGE 16

people relax; good music fills a room with beautiful sounds and makes them think about beauty. So does a painting.

Are you a good listener? Being a good listener requires two things, patience, and a caring attitude. Both of these can show someone he or she is valued. Being able to listen to someone, maybe a friend who needs someone to talk to, is a gift you can give.

Obeying your parents is a gift that will be rewarded (Ephesians 6:1–3). Both listening and obeying are valuable, like gold, it says in Proverbs 25:12.

Think about what you do well.

It could be something you like to do. When you decide to give a valuable gift remember it does not T have to cost a lot of money. M

Make Tinfoil Cut-outs: You need: • several disposable pie plates (made of tin foil) • a marker • scissors • a large nail • string or yarn • scrap cardboard or newspaper What to do: Draw a simple shape of a moon, or star, or heart, in the middle of the pie plate. Cut out the shape. Work on cardboard or newspaper to protect the table you are working on. With the nail, punch a hole towards the top of the shape. Use the nail to make indentations to decorate the cut-out. Attach a string to the hole near the top. Hang your decoration in a window or outside on a nearby tree.

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