The Messenger Vol. 43 No. 11 June 15, 2005

Meserete Kristos Church in Ethiopia:

growth and challenges

The

Messenger EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 43 NUMBER 11 JUNE 15, 2005

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editorials

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Do we assume too much in our churches?

hen a minister preached years ago he said he recognized there would be guilt among those gathered; later, he recognized there would be doubt. Today, though, what about a lack of knowledge? Our conference benefits greatly from the Bible college movement. As well, many older believers with limited formal education know the Scriptures well from decades of study. Still, we likely assume too much in our churches. As we reach out to wider Canadian society (as is our calling) many people will be unfamiliar with Bible stories and church history. Basic Christian doctrine needs to be explained. All of this is best done graciously. Why? EMC church planting co-director Peter Dueck puts it this way: For the first time we encounter a generation in our country that has not rejected the gospel—because it does not know of it. As well, along with the losses of the catechism, Scripture memory programs and the Bible drill, many churches suffer from an unsystematic presentation of Christian teachings. Churched and unchurched people are affected by this.

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What can help? These are preliminary, unoriginal thoughts. • Examine your order of service from a newcomer’s point of view. Compared to other styles of services, what is present or missing? Do you explain what happens? Are people guided through a service? • What Bible version is read from the pulpit? (The King James Version is the most difficult English version to understand.) • What about pew Bibles? If we want people to bring their own, what about in the meantime? • What introductory materials are on hand for searching people? • Before Scripture is read, is it briefly introduced in its historical context and emphasis? Is it well-read? • Is there an overuse of evangelical language? (This is different from evangelical teachings.) How does that speak effectively to people of main-line church backgrounds? What styles of preaching, teaching, and church ministries best respond to a lack of knowledge today? How well do our churches speak T respectfully to a lack of knowledge? M Terry M. Smith

I am indebted

hrough the Christian Church I was given knowledge of Jesus Christ, who graciously called me to be his follower together with others. I was given the stories of Jesus and seeds were planted on the need for social justice and critical thought (United Church). I was given a clearer, more historic sense that Jesus Christ is both God and man who died to take away our sins and that we called to follow Him (Evangelical Churches). I was given baptism and a concern to be biblical (Baptist Church). I was given ministerial training in a college where much was learned from

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Scripture, on the need for church planting and of the Spirit’s work in our world (Pentecostal Church). I was given more ministerial training and a greater sense of discipleship, community, social justice, and peace (EMC and wider Mennonite Church). I was given a connection to Mennonite World Conference, the Evangelical World Alliance, and the wider Christian Church. I have been given much. The Church’s wonders and history, successes and failures, shape me today. It is better to serve the Lord anywhere than nowhere. T I am indebted. M Terry M. Smith

EDITOR 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. THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press. Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba. PAP Registration #9914 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Publications Assistance Program (PAP), toward our mailing costs. 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. 13 – July 20 (copy due July 8)

THE MESSENGER

letters Concerned about Let a Child be a Child! There is a real concern regarding the views expressed in the article Let a Child be a Child! by Mr. Plett [May 4, 2005]. There is real danger in referring to a differing opinion regarding an issue that is not clearly defined in Scripture as “weak teaching.” Of course, it would be easier to believe that all children will go to heaven, the heathen are not really lost, Christians will not have to live through the tribulation, etc. However, just because that would be easier does not mean that it is really what the Scriptures teach. Of concern is the interpretation of Scripture when referring to Mark 10:14. Does it actually say that all children are safe in the kingdom? We don’t read that. What we read in several translations (KJV, NIV, NRSV) and in Luke 18:15–17 and Matthew 19:13–15 is that “such as these” are in the kingdom. Not “these,” but ones like them. When you look up the word “such” in Strong’s Concordance it brings to light that this word which all three gospel accounts use, means “to denote character or individuality” (Strong’s Greek Dictionary of the New Testament). Character or individuality is a qualifier to this statement. Irwin’s Bible Commentary (pages 390–391) states that, “These words evidently refer to that humility which is one essential characteristic of Christ’s followers.” And Paul Minear in Mark (The Layman’s Bible Commentary, p. 102) says, “Childlikeness had, in Jewish thought, nothing to do with sentimental ideas of innocence or purity. A child had no claims. His status was one of total dependence. He was an example of being least and last. If we are not to hinder children, we are not to hinder anyone—period. To enter, what one needs to do (although this may be the hardest thing) is to be willing to begin again with nothing of one’s own.” And that leads us to John 3:3. We see Jesus telling Nicodemus, a Pharisee, that in order for him to see the Kingdom of God (this is using different words, but the same train of thought as in Mark 10) he would have to be reborn as a child. He would need the innocence of a child and the loss of rights and status as a child. Nicodemus was a man who had to go from great power and influence to become a child of nothing. In Mark 10, Luke 18, and Matthew 19 we have Jesus demonstrating to His disciples the same thoughts in a different way. He uses the visual methods to teach

June 15, 2005

because the children are right there for the lesson. On the other side of this issue, we believe that if God so chose He could allow children safety in His presence. We do not believe that we can force God to do something just so that it sets our minds at ease. We should feel very guilty offering anyone false security on any issue. As good as it is to think about these issues, to hold fast to a teaching that is not clearly defined in Scripture is very dangerous. Let’s hold firmly to the things we do know for sure and let the other issues simply be discussion until such a time that we are in God’s presence and can receive an accurate answer—if it is still important at that time. Vern and Lana Knutson Winnipeg, Man.

Perhaps in Pantheon, not in New Testament After reading the three letters in the May 4 issue of The Messenger claiming that God cannot look upon sin, especially when it is heaped up, I spent considerable time combing the New Testament looking for evidence to support such a notion. I did not find any. Instead I found a record of God moving toward sin and mingling with sinners. It was the Pharisees who were uncomfortable with the presence of the sinful woman who anointed Jesus’ feet, not Jesus. He is the one seeking out those who have gone astray, speaking to the Samaritan woman, and washing Judas’ feet. He weeps over Jerusalem because of her sin and then enters the city to offer hope. No turning away of God’s face here. Now it might be argued that Jesus could be in the presence of sin without being defiled, but the Father could not. But Jesus himself said that, “I am in the Father and the Father in me.” And Paul affirms that “God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself.” That being the case, God would have turned away from himself if he indeed had turned his back on Christ—which, in my opinion, becomes a preposterous argument. It seems to me that the notion that God’s holiness prevents him from being in the presence of sin is rooted more firmly in the Greek philosophies of Gnosticism and Neo-Platonism than in the biblical record. In the first centuries of the Christian church philosophers of this stripe defended the view that Christ

could not have been human, and certainly could not have touched sin. Their dualistic understanding of the world did not allow God into the presence of sin without defiling his holiness. But that is not the biblical conception of holiness. In biblical terms, God’s holiness is his ability to confront evil without being defiled. His holiness allows him to take sinners in his arms and transform them. If God has done that for you and me “while we were yet sinners,” by what logic do we say that at a certain point—when the sins become too many—that God must turn his face away? During Christ’s life on earth it was a stretch for many to believe that he was God. Today it is a similar stretch for many Christians to believe that Christ was fully human. Historically, the church has affirmed that he was both. When Jesus cried out, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” he is quoting David in Psalm 22:1. Had God indeed forsaken David? Hardly, because just a little later in the same Psalm he once more recognizes God’s abiding presence. Perhaps there is a philosophical necessity within the Greek Pantheon of gods for God not to be able to look upon sin. I am thankful, however, that I serve a God who “sent himself” into the darkest night of sin so that I might be forgiven and healed. Jack Heppner Steinbach, Man.

Letters continued on page 8 3

Keeping the fires going

grows

Ethiopian church and faces challenges Byron Rempel-Burkholder

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n a restaurant in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, two Canadian visitors told Tefera Bekere they were impressed by the Meserete Kristos Church’s growth—10.6 percent in the previous year. “10.6 percent!” exclaimed Tefera, director of the MKC’s evangelism department. “We are embarrassed about that. It means we are already stagnant. The assembly will not be happy to hear that. It should be 30 percent.” The visitors were incredulous. In their denomination, a 10 percent growth rate would be a welcome phenomenon. Embarrassed? A few weeks later, with another year’s statistics gathered in, delegates to the annual assembly were relieved to hear that the growth rate had gone up to 12.5 percent. Baptized membership now stands at 120,677, making MKC one of the largest denominations in the Mennonite World Conference.

Still, Tefera’s “embarrassment” reflects concern in the MKC leadership: Will there be a levelling off, not only in numbers but in spiritual energy? What is happening to the vibrancy that Mennonites world-wide know as a success story? Mulugeta Zewdie, newly-elected MKC General Secretary, believes that when church values are considered “matters of opinion, personal preference or subjective choice rather than objective [reality]” the church loses its evangelistic power. This is a danger as Ethiopian society is influenced by Western culture. For Mulugeta, the church’s mission must stay rooted in the example of the early church, whose strong community life, devotion to the Word, Christ-like character and demonstrations of God’s power worked together to spread the gospel. “Today, missionaries in the younger churches of Africa and Asia are convinced of the reality of exorcism and the power of healing in the name of Jesus,” says Mulugeta. Mulugeta recognizes that MKC may be called to a greater “biblical balance” in which salvation is understood to include “justice, and the liberation of the forgotten and the poor—a response to misery, chaos, fear and the brutality of community life.” With roots in the ministries of Mennonite Central Committee and Eastern Mennonite Mission (EMM) workers, this group of Anabaptists in the Horn of Africa has had an exciting ride these past three decades. Helped by an indigenous spiritual movement since the 1960s, the church experienced rapid growth during the Marxist regime of 1974 to 1991—especially during eight years when the church was underground. The church has since become the fourth largest Protestant denomination in the country, which is otherwise mostly Ethiopian Orthodox and Muslim. The MKC’s spiritual vitality intrigues North Americans. A typical Sunday morning service A worship service of the Bole Airport congregation in Addis Ababa. begins with a long prayer time led

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by a worship leader. In response to rising crescendos of prayers invoking God’s power, worshippers raise hands, and pray aloud—often crying out, sometimes speaking in tongues. Some motion to depict the pushing back of the forces of evil. Prayers are punctuated by the exploding phrase “ba Yesus Kristos SIM!”—“in Jesus Christ’s name!” Robed choirs sing songs composed in Ethiopia’s pentatonic scale, accompanied by synthesizers, traditional drums, and stringed instruments. Translated western songs, common during the missionary era, have virtually disappeared. Preaching is animated. “Signs and wonders” are part of the church culture. It is not unusual in worship services for people to be delivered from demon possession or illness, or for a member to offer a word of “prophecy.” (These have included words that God has a special calling for Ethiopians to evangelize the world.) Whether locally or in denominational offices, prayer groups meet often and long. On Fridays at MKC’s college no classes are scheduled; this is a day of prayer and fasting. Students kneel on cushions and pray out loud. They stay for hours. College instructor Woudineh Endayelalu says, “For us prayer is a matter of enjoying the presence of God. When you are worshipping and enjoying God, you can pray for five hours and it will seem like only a few minutes.” North Americans are often envious of the spiritual passion their brothers and sisters exhibit and surprised when leaders complain that the church’s spiritual energy is not what it should be. Perhaps fuelling the “cooling” in the church has been some sobering growth pains. Nationally, the church has come through a time of conflict resolution over the division of authority in church institutions and program. Locally, congregations question leadership structures that may have served better during June 15, 2005

MWC members in Africa (2003)

About Ethiopia and MKC Secular democratic government Eastern Mennonite Mission began work in 1948 246,000 total people in MKC: 120,000 members 41,000 under instruction 81,000 children 335 churches 780 church plants

Meserete Kristos Church has more members than in any other national Mennonite-related church or conference in the world, according to the latest census figures. It has 120,610 baptized members, 9,000 more than Mennonite Church USA at 111,347 members. – Mennonite World Conference

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persecution—partly, much authority elders, pastors and evangelists should have. What will keep those fires alive? According to Mulugeta Zewdie, “In order to evangelize and attain sustainable church growth, MKC needs an effective strategy in the area of leadership training.” Probably the greatest legacy the missionaries bestowed in the early years was the empowerment of Ethiopian leaders. Within five years of the formation of the MKC in the late 1950’s, missionaries handed over top positions to Ethiopian Christians. That willingness to “work themselves out of a job” was proven by Nazareth Bible Academy’s establishment and sponsorship of Ethiopians to American colleges.

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Misrach Church is Addis Ababa’s largest MKC congregation.

having three diploma and degree tracks, with an enrollment of 105 students. The curriculum is expanding from a strictly theological and biblical focus to include subjects to enable students to work and witness in the secular business world. The school attracts a quarter of its students from other denominations, including Ethiopian Orthodox renewal groups. Last year it graduated 55 students, most of whom are in congregational leadership and church planting work. The college’s biggest and most ambitious project is a new, $3.5 million campus in Debre Zeit, east of Addis Ababa. Late last summer, construction began on the first phase, though half of the money had yet to be raised. Meanwhile, a smaller training institute in Western Ethiopia—the Wollega Bible College—is being built to serve Oromo-speaking churches. For both projects, the MKC appreciates help from North American partners. The colleges may be the best symbol the MKC has of its continued vibrancy and faith to forge ahead. Where the tendency is for movements to plateau eventually, MKC leaders aren’t ready to resign their church to that fate. There is work to do, and if God has called them to it, T they must answer. M

ccording to Bedru Hussein, past vice president of Mennonite World Conference and currently an administrator at the MK College in Addis Ababa, EMM’s foresight “has given leaders the authority to lead today. That did hot happen with other denominations.” Training at a national level happens on two tracks. Continuing a pattern started during the underground years, the pastoral care department of the national church holds semi-annual training conferences in the MKC’s 17 regions, inviting pastors and teachers. The MKC has invested energy Hailu Cherenet (back right) and Bedru Hussein (front right) visited the EMC national office on May 26, 2005, to share the in Addis Ababa’s history of the Meserete Kristos Church in Ethiopia, to seek Meserete Kristos funding for the denomination’s college expansion, and to learn College. From starting about North American Mennonite churches. With them are Eric Rempel (MCC Manitoba chairperson and former worker in in a house in 1994, the Ethiopia) and EMC General Secretary Len Barkman. college has grown into (Terry Smith)

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Byron Rempel-Burkholder is an editor with Faith & Life Resources, a division of Mennonite Publishing Network. He and his family spent last summer living at the MK College in Addis Ababa, and visiting places where he had lived as a child, as the son of EMM missionaries. Cover photo and others (except where otherwise noted) are by Byron RempelBurkholder.

THE MESSENGER

a woman s journey of faith Betty Koop

EDNA: ‘Pray Always…’

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N A pleasant summer day Edna and I meandered along the nature trail, enjoying the sounds of the frothing river rapids beside us. Our husbands followed, relishing a rare day off. Farming and the ministry have this in common: a too-busy schedule! That day deepened my friendship with Edna. She shared about her life as a nurse, a missionary, and now as a wife and mother to her husband’s children. Clearly, prayer was an integral part of each bend in the road. Edna’s interests in missions and nursing started at a young age. After prayer and studying, she completed her RN training and Bible school. Now what? She was accepted to go the La Esperanza mission station in the Paraguayan Chaco. She was concerned that she would love the local people. She prayed, “Lord, if you will give me peace about going, then I know you will give me love for them when I get there.” His deep peace flooded her and she did find she had a real love for these needy people. After her second term, Edna came home on treatment for tuberculosis, not knowing what would be next. She loved the Spanish language and Latin people, so joining the staff at Rio Grande Bible Institute (in Edinburg, Texas) seemed a way to continue serving. During this time, Edna accompanied a group of staff and students to Spain to do street evangelism. She would often climb a mountain near their lodgings to have devotions. Sometimes she would be surrounded by a flock of sheep. Their shepherd had questions—a unique witnessing situation! The group was planning a side trip to Morocco, which required extra money. Edna’s support cheques were not arriving. It was humbling to accept a bar of soap from a student who discovered Edna’s plight. Edna talked to God about her financial need. She was willing to stay back, but if her money would arrive on time, she would see that a student who couldn’t afford to go, would be taken care of. The cheques arrived on time for both of them to go. (A postal strike in Canada had caused the delay, and a staff member took the mail across the border. God had a unique way of answering her prayers.) Back in Texas for what she sensed would be her last term with RGBI, Edna got shattering news that a dear cousin died suddenly, leaving a husband and five children. Edna writes, “I couldn’t believe it. I cried June 15, 2005

and…was very burdened for Reuben [the husband] and for the children…. I prayed and prayed for them but I was not thinking of getting involved in their lives other than that.” Reuben was devastated at the loss of his wife, feeling like “my heart was ripped out.” Along with grief and making a living on the farm, he faced taking care of his children (the youngest was three), cooking, cleaning, and laundry. Eventually, he knew that he needed help. He writes, “One evening…I asked the Lord, ‘Who will help me raise my children?’ It seemed like a very clear voice inside me said, ‘Edna…will.’” It took a lot of prayer, especially on Edna’s part, to reach a final decision. Hadn’t God called her into missions, to Latin people she loved? So few were willing to go, could God be guiding her to come home and marry? Answers didn’t come quickly or easily. They agreed to get to know each other better. As Edna and I walked together on that pleasant summer day, she said, “Because we didn’t want to be public about our relationship before we were sure, we often went for nature walks, so walking like this brings back warm memories.” They did get married, had a two-week honeymoon and then as, Edna put it, “plunged into family life.” It was different cooking for seven rather than for one. Edna was so grateful for the children’s graciousness— they never complained about her food. She says, “Starting married life with five children between almost 5 and 21 can be interesting. Things were a bit tense and stressful at first.” But the youngest, a little girl, seemed gifted in chattering and helping everyone to relax. Edna’s praying hadn’t stopped. She needed wisdom to fulfill her new role. As she puts it, “I asked and He answered”—although I suspect it wasn’t that simple. Edna had many unusual answers to prayer. But, as she also admitted, sometimes she couldn’t understand why God didn’t answer prayers of the destitute people she ministered to, when their children were hungry or dying. There is a divine mystery to prayers and praying which we can’t fully understand or explain. But always let us pray in faith, knowing God wants the best for T each of His children. M 7

letters

continued

Jesus took our sins upon himself The article and the cover of the issue stated that “Christ was not forsaken.” It is stated that when Jesus from the cross asked, “Why have you forsaken me?” that he was not truly forsaken, but only blinded to His Father’s presence by his suffering. He uses Hebrews 12:2 to suggest that Jesus experienced joy while on the cross, proving that He was not actually forsaken. “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” I question his interpretation of this verse. Does it really mean that this joy was being experienced by Jesus while hanging on the cross? I realize I’m a graduate of only one hermeneutics class, but it doesn’t sound like it to me. The writer asks the question, “Did He turn His back on His only Son? If so, that’s not very encouraging for us when we struggle.” I believe this statement entirely misses the point of why Jesus died on the cross. He was not struggling at all in the manner in which we struggle. He became sin itself, when he took our sins upon Himself (2 Corinthians 5:21). He struggled in a way we will never have to struggle because He experienced it instead of us. The writer also suggests that Jesus’ last words, “Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit” show that the Father did not turn his back on Jesus. This seems to be a leap in logic. Someone with their back turned to me, who is choosing to walk away from me, offering no help, can still hear what I call out to them. I see no conflict with Jesus calling out these words to His Father who had forsaken Him. He also writes, “While our suffering will often prevent us from finding our Heavenly Father, that does not mean He is gone. He does not turn His back on us when we suffer.” I wholeheartedly agree. This statement can be supported from scripture—“I will never leave you or forsake you.” However, this verse is referring to believers. Unfortunately, there is no such clear statement made in reference to Jesus. We have been taught that hell is separation from God. This is what Jesus experienced so we never have to. Furthermore, if Jesus had not been

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forsaken, he would not have died. This is the punishment for sin prescribed early on in Genesis when God promised Adam and Eve that sin would lead to death. There is a severance of that relationship between man and God which truly is life. When Jesus became sin, He experienced that severance. Thankfully though, once death has been experienced there is the joy of resurrection. Finally, what evidence is there in the crucifixion story that Jesus’ mind was not working on all cylinders in His suffering? He refused wine vinegar which would have deadened the pain. He had the where-with-all to establish a mother/son relationship between Mary and John. He knew and told the eternal destination of the thief next to Him. I see no evidence that Jesus was blinded to anything while on the cross. Did Jesus at any other time in His life utter words that were not true, because He didn’t know any better? I doubt it. This theory doesn’t only run contrary to recent choruses like How deep the

Father’s love for us, it runs contrary to biblical theology through the centuries. Let’s keep the choruses and closely inspect, rather, this notion that Jesus was not forsaken. It calls our salvation from sin into question. Jason E. Dueck Winnipeg, Man.

Theorizing about Christ’s death I think it is important to understand, as the discussion will continue, that the different opinions centre on different theories of the atonement. The New Testament repeatedly declares that Jesus died for our sins. All the writers who have written on the issue agree with that. However, the New Testament does not explain, in a systematic way, what happened between the Father and the Son when he died or in what way that death saves us from our sin. And so, thoughtful Christian people have theorized about that. In The Atonement of the Death of Christ, H. D. McDonald discusses the atonement theories of 88 different theologians, from Clement of Rome of the late first century to current writers. The discussion will continue. I think it is good for EMC people to be part of it. It is fascinating to notice that the three letters in the May 4 issue of The Messenger all reflect the same theory, what theologians have called the “Penal Substitution” theory. This view was more at home in the Calvinist/Reformed wing of the Reformation than in the Anabaptist or Lutheran movements. It has its philosophical base in the concepts of crime, retribution, and justice that

were current in Europe in the sixteenth century. It is also fascinating, and somewhat ironic, to notice that all three writers, in finding fault with Tom Warner’s interpretation of the Scriptures, themselves make theoretical theological statements that are hard to find in the teachings of the Bible. I am tempted to go into detail on these points, but I will refrain—maybe others will do that. Let me rather reflect on the issue at the centre of this discussion—the point trumpeted on the cover of the March 23 issue, that Jesus was not forsaken. One could argue that He was forsaken. He looked forsaken. The ten thousand angels did not appear. The scoffers ridiculed and laughed at Him, but God was silent. The tourists who stopped to gape at the scene on the hill saw no more evidence of divinity in Jesus than in the scoundrels hanging beside Him. Jesus suffered as every other victim of the Roman penal system had suffered. In His tortured humanness he expressed His sense of abandonment by quoting the words of another “God-forsaken” sufferer (Psalm 22:1). Before the day was over He died. On the other hand, one can argue

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that He was not forsaken. Throughout that terrible day He was sustained by the strength for which He had prayed in Gethsemane. He did not waver from the course set before Him. He completed the mission that the Holy Trinity had planned. The forgiving attitude of God, which was announced to Moses, celebrated by the Psalmists, and preached by the prophets, was there heard audibly, from the lips of God Himself, “Father, forgive them.” He demonstrated that the love of God is invincible. Neither the brutal hatred of the people nor the temptations of Satan could corrupt that love. He refused to respond to their cruelty in kind. The evidence suggests the Father was with Him all the way. With divine help He stayed the course and defeated evil with His love. In doing so He demonstrated that even in the experience of utmost forsakenness one may still be right in the centre of God’s will. Arden Thiessen Steinbach, Man. The Messenger reserves the right to edit letters for length, style, clarity, libel, tone (charity), and for good taste. It has the right to refuse letters. The focus of letter writing is to be on issues, not personalities (from the policy of the Board of Church Ministries, January 2002). Letters are now to be 500 words or less. —Editors

Kakwa Falls Adventure

A look at the derelict cry I have been disturbed by Christ’s derelict cry from the cross, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” How could a loving God forsake His totally obedient Son at a time when the Son so desperately needed the assurance of His Father’s presence? Even a human father would not have done that, and isn’t God the model of true “fatherhood”? My understanding of this “cry” has been shaped by several lines of thought. First, I understand the New Testament to teach that redemption is the work of the triune God, just as creation is the work of the whole Godhead. What one member of the Trinity does can be ascribed to all the members of the Trinity. In 2 Corinthians 5 Paul says it is God who has reconciled us to Himself through Christ. In 5:19 he writes “in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them.” Here it is God the Father who accomplishes the work of redemp tion. Reconciliation is the work of the Triune God. The second line of thought of has to do with the deity of Christ. I understand the New Testament to teach that Christ was fully God and fully man. “In him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell” (Colossians 1:19b). I understand that to mean that He was fully of the essence of God. He was God. To say that God the Father was too holy to look on His Son because of the sin that had been put on Him, makes Christ less holy than God

On Monday, July 4, join us on a fun-filled, all-day, rugged adventure to scenic Kakwa Falls in the Rocky Mountains, southwest of Grande Prairie, Alberta. We have limited space available, so register early. Pre-registration deadline is June 27, 2005. You will be responsible for your own bag lunch. This fun adventure is subject to suitable weather. To pre-register call the Mission Heights Community Church at 780-532-2660 or e-mail us at mhcc.secretary@telusplanet.net. June 15, 2005

the Father. In essence that would mean Christ was not fully God. The New Testament does not permit us to drive a wedge between the Father and the Son in the work of reconciliation. They are equally holy. When Adam and Eve sinned God did not turn His back on them, but met with them personally and dealt with the problem. I have no difficulty accepting that Jesus felt forsaken by His Father when He was hanging on the cross. We must remember that there was a human body hanging on the cross with human weaknesses. The betrayal of one of His disciples had led to His arrest. Later that night His chief disciple denied three times that Jesus was his friend. Just before He was led away to be crucified He was flogged to within an inch of His life. After hanging on the cross for several hours in excruciating pain, He was physically, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted and felt He had been forsaken not only by those closest and dearest to Him, but also by His heavenly Father. God graciously gave Christ the assurance of His divine presence and at the point of His death He could confidently commit His soul to the One who had been with Him through the whole experience. His last words were, “Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit.” If we read the derelict cry in this context we are relieved of the responsibility of having to decide which of Jesus’ words are true and which are merely human. We do this with Psalm 22:1. None of us believe the Psalmist was deserted by God when he spoke these words. They express his feelings at that time. God’s promise “I will never fail you nor forsake you” was true for Christ and is also true for us today. Edwin Plett Taber, Alta.

coming events June 25–26 Bike the Whiteshell Cyclathon for MCC’s water projects Whiteshell Provincial Park 204-261-6381 www.mcc.org/manitoba/bik July 1–3 2005 EMC Convention Speaker Rod Masterson Finding Calm in Chaos Peace River Bible Institute Sexsmith, Alta. 204-326-6401

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focus on...

Len Barkman

General Secretary

A Pentecost Experience It was a privilege to be part of a unique church experience on Pentecost Sunday (May 15). The occasion was a joint service of Ebenezer Christian Church of Brandon together with Reserve Fellowship Chapel, held in Sioux Valley, Man. This gathering of recent immigrants and First Nations members, along with guests of other cultures, was a fitting demonstration of God’s grace and love extending across languages and cultures—as on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). The visiting Spanish group provided the music and a message from Pastor Antonio Pitta. David Pashe welcomed the group and expressed the power of unity when believers work together for the cause of Christ. The service was followed by a lunch combining Spanish and Native dishes. Plans are underway to have services together on future occasions. Ebenezer congregation has extended an invitation to Reserve Fellowship for a return visit in June.

People from Ebenezer Christian Church gathered with people from Reserve Fellowship Chapel at Sioux Valley, Man. Antonio Pitta (left) gave the message.

with our missionaries Papua New Guinea

Changing lives in Pukapuki

Does God as Lord and Saviour change lives? Of course He does. It’s the difference between night and day. When we first moved to Pukapuki in 1994, Alfons was probably in his late teens. (No one took note of birthdays and other important events, and the language of Pukapuki was unwritten.) Alfons had energy that seemed to manifest itself in wrong ways—fighting and trouble with young women. Laurel and I and our coworkers labelled him as a “man…born to trouble as the sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7).

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As we finished our culture and language time in early 1997, we prepared for and started teaching the Pukapuki people the Word of God chronologically from creation to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. The story was over 50 lessons long and took us about four months to complete. Many distractions came up. Satan was at work because we were bringing light. Many of you were praying during that time and, praise the Lord, the light prevailed in many Pukapuki people. About two months into the teaching,

the most feared man in the area had just taken on wives four through seven. Two of the two youngest girls wanted nothing to do with this. Alfons had his eye on one, so he and another young man decided to run away with them. The feared man, who was not attending the teaching, showed up wanting to kill Alfons. This stopped the day’s teaching and took Alfons away. He ran for two months. After we completed the teaching, 35 people expressed a clear testimony of their sinfulness and Jesus’ atoning death on the cross. Alfons was not one of them.

THE MESSENGER

We stayed another six months to work with the baby church, discovering together how a Christian walks in the Pukapuki culture. We left for a year of home service in Canada. Our coworkers, Dave and Cindy Wall, came back six months before we did, and they shared with us that Alfons was a believer and keenly interested in growing. While there were no missionaries in the village, new believers led Alfons to Christ. When we got back to Pukapuki in early 1999, we saw the dramatic change in Alfons. He was married and a father. We had a leadership training class, including literacy, with several young believers. Alfons showed a keen interest in learning to read in order to understand the Bible

and lessons we had prepared. Alfons was my main translation helper for the book of Mark. It was thrilling to see his face light up as truths of God’s Word became real to him. He could hardly wait to share with his wife Ronika what he had learned that day. Today, Alfons has five children. He is the main Bible teacher in the Pukapuki church and demonstrates a real shepherd’s heart in leading the church. Now, he carries too much of leadership responsibility. Many of that original leadership class have fallen away—some whom we thought would be church pillars. Some men are maturing in their faith and, Lord willing, will take on more leadership responsibilities. Isn’t it interesting how we can be

Tim and Laurel Schroder (Pelly) serve under New Tribes Mission. Their children are Rylan, Jesse and Joanna. They are pictured with fellow team members Mary Kenny (back) and Miriam Yoder (front).

Ronika and Alfons have five children. Alfons is the main Bible teacher in the Pukapuki church and assists Tim with translation work.

so wrong in our judgment of others? 1 Samuel 16:7 tells us “The LORD sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” We have started a new phase of our life in Pukapuki. Our original coworkers, the Walls and Rodges are now involved in mission leadership elsewhere in Papua New Guinea. We are thrilled to have Miriam Yoder and Mary Kenny now a part of the Pukapuki team. They started culture and language training and plan to take on Bible translation, women’s discipleship and children’s ministry in a couple of years. Laurel is into language study formally again, and she was recently evaluated at a level called capable high. She desires to disciple ladies on a deeper level. I am working on starting a new literacy class. Over the next two years I’d like to complete Acts, Romans and Ephesians. We appreciate your prayers as we work with Alfons and others in helping the Pukapuki believers mature in their faith and reach out to people in the area. Tim and Laurel Schroder

with our churches

Many activities, new pastoral couple Roseisle, Man.: On June 20, 2004, a baptismal service was held in Stephenfield Park. Terra Huston, Stacey Klassen, and Casey Siemens shared their testimonies with the church, family, and friends on the lake shore. With a little shivering and much joy and excitement they were baptized by our former pastor Randall Krahn and became the church’s newest members. A communion service and potluck followed. With our pastoral position vacant since May, we as a congregation were thrilled to have Kelly and Karen Lesser join us on July 11, 18 and 25 as pastoral candidates, where they shared their testimonies and Kelly had a devotional and message for us. The

June 15, 2005

devotional was given during an evening service where Ryan Peters, a church member, also shared his experiences through the Discipleship Training School through YWAM, Vancouver. He had the privilege of sharing his faith in Morocco and later in Spain and Ottawa. On September 5, Pastor Kelly and Karen Lesser began a new journey in their lives as our pastoral couple. The ordination/ installation/commissioning service for Pastor Kelly and Karen Lesser was held on November 28, followed by a potluck lunch. On October 4 the church enjoyed our continued next page

Karen and Kelly Lesser are the new pastoral couple at Roseisle EMC.

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annual hayride, where many enjoyed climbing “the hill” or relaxing by Babcock Bridge before heading back to the church for a bonfire and a wiener roast. Our Thanksgiving potluck supper was held on October 8. The church participated in Operation Christmas Child, and was able to pack over 40 shoe boxes for need kids in the world. The ladies fellowship hosted an adult and college and career Christmas banquet on November 27 with a small program. On December 12 the church met for an Advent Festival Supper of pizza from

Carman’s Chicken Chef, pop and lots of sweet goodies. Some braved the cold temperature to spread Christmas cheer to the hamlet of Roseisle with caroling, while others stayed at the church to play games, visit, and eat. Later we all met again at the church for a special time of sharing by candlelight. Each household was encouraged to bring a candle and a special Christmas memory to share. Our Christmas concert was held on December 21. The two younger classes each had a chance to share about Jesus’ birth with music and a poem, while the older

classes combined to do a drama about a runaway boy who finds Jesus and his way home. Many parents, friends, and family members came out to enjoy the night. New Year’s Eve was spent at the church, where we had a small service with voluntary items that had been prepared. The rest of the night was spent playing games, eating and visiting until midnight. Pastor Kelly led us in prayer as he asked God to bless the New Year. Games and eating continued for many until the wee hours of the morning. Lyndsey Bourgeois

ABCs: Alpha, baptisms, care groups Prairie Rose (Landmark, Man.): Once again, the Alpha program in Landmark has proven to be a success. Many people have found a sense of community and acceptance as they meet each week for a meal, a video presentation, and a discussion. As a result, a number of people have also made a commitment to Jesus Christ and have then continued to be discipled through friendships, Bible studies, Sunday school, church and baptism instruction classes. Others in the church family have also sensed God’s call to be baptized and so Prairie Rose has had three groups of baptismal candidates and some membership transfers. It is exciting for our church to hear the testimonies of how God has worked in each life in a unique way. For example, Michelle Kvern moved to Landmark about nine years ago and thought she moved to the “Bible Belt”; she was a little cautious of the Christians. However, as a result of a friend and the Alpha program, she allowed God to work in her life and she entered into a personal relationship with Jesus. Today she is rejoicing that she moved to Landmark and did not close the door to Christianity. Brad and Cynthia Plett talked of how

they had always known that one day they should be baptized, but wanted to wait for the big event or sign in their lives. Brad challenged the people not to wait because it may not happen; the time is now. Elvin Goertzen’s testimony was amazing. His sister and his cousin gave testimony on his behalf and they related much of his life and character to us. When it came time for him to speak, the pastor read his words, some of which were: “Me believe in Jesus. Me die and go to heaven to be with Jesus.” Then pastor Mike Plett asked for his response and he replied, “Me happy.” Many people were moved by his simple, confident faith. Elvin is currently not in good health and so we continue to pray for him. Prairie Rose has also had a parent/child dedication service and 12 babies were born from February to October 2004. Another major change in our church has been the revamping of the Care Group structure. In an attempt to have each person in the church connected with a small group, we divided the entire congregation into what we now call Life Groups. People could choose to be grouped according to age or be put into an intergenerational group. The hope is

Baptism and membership: Luke Wiebe, Sandi (transfer) and Aime Plett, Lori and Randy Hepner, Ian and Priscilla (transfer) Keating, David and Elfrieda Hildebrandt (transfers), and Ruth Obirek (transfer).

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that Life Groups will meet for fellowship, prayer, Bible study, service and care. Each deacon or minister has been given several of these groups to care for and these then form a larger Care Group. Deidre Plett

Baptism: Elvin Goertzen with Pastor Mike Plett

Curt and Dolores Plett and Elmer and Brenda Funk were elected as deacons and installed early in 2005. Prairie Rose is excited to see them serving.

Baptism: (back) Kate Hildebrand, Geoff Reimer, Christa Reimer, Brad and Cynthia Plett, (front) Jenna Giesbrecht, Tina Klassen, Elena Hildebrandt, and Michelle Kvern.

THE MESSENGER

Meetings, auctions, invitations, and celebrations Braeside (Winnipeg, Man.): One of the first events of the new year was our annual general meeting. During the just over three-hour meeting we were able to hear committee reports, accept the budget, and affirm the nominating committee’s nominees for vacancies. Sometimes there are whispers that these meetings are uninteresting and— dare I write—boring. A simple idea should banish these thoughts: If this was a shareholders’ meeting that would make decisions on how to deal with our financial investments, our interest level would be high. These business meetings are such gatherings: We are being informed of our investments (time, money, gifts) in the Kingdom of God. Our Ladies Fellowship Group held an auction for MCC relief for the Asian tsunami. Donated articles from artwork to zwiebach (buns) were auctioned off with the assistance of a comedic and persuasive auctioneer (Bernie Wiens, our newly elected church council moderator). Over $900 was raised. For many months Braeside Church, and in particular our Spanish friends, have prayed and searched for a Spanish pastor. In March Angel and Blanca Infantes, recently graduates of Rio Grande Bible Institute and newly married, visited with Spanish families and provided a brief life story to the Sunday morning congregation. In April we agreed to ask them to come back and they joyfully accepted the invitation. They will arrive once all the paperwork is completed. Angel is from Peru and Blanca is from Mexico. Al Dueck

Children are important to a church. On Palm Sunday these young folks led us into Passion Week with exuberant singing and waving palm branches. In mid-week Braeside hosted a community showing of The Passion of the Christ, followed on Thursday by communion and footwashing. Good Friday’s service was a solemn reminder, through Scripture readings and songs, of Jesus’ purpose to the cross. We met for an Easter morning breakfast and a joyful resurrection service. We are indeed most blessed to have a God who loves us dearly.

It was with celebration that we welcomed Dan and Jennifer Horne, Glenda Tochez, and Adeline and Bert Wiens as members at Braeside. All of them are already involved in the work of the church.

Ken Friesen, Bonnie Penner, and Marie and Tony Driedger were commissioned recently as deacons. Deacons play an integral role in the life of the church, working quietly behind the scenes to bring solace, guidance and charity to many.

June 15, 2005

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Community breakfast held Pelly, Sask.: On May 8, 2005, the men of Pelly Fellowship Chapel prepared and served breakfast for over 100 persons. It was held in the Community Hall, and was followed by a service of praise and worship. There was a speaker and musicians, and a group of men sang for the ladies. This has been an outreach by the Pelly church for a number of years. Vivian AnďŹ nson

Leamington, Ont.:

Baptisms and dedications

Jake Harms was baptized on August 29, 2004.

Participating in an August 29, 2004, parent-child dedication were Rick and Helen Martens with Bradley, Aaron and Helen Neufeld with Serena, Frank and Mary Schmitt with Claudia, Jake and Tina Thiessen with Malaya, and John and Katy Friesen with Colton.

A group of 13 young people were recently baptized and became members of Leamington EMC.

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Lowell and Marlene Froese dedicated Charlize (right) on August 22, 2004. Lowell holds her older sister Keyara. Grandpa John Froese ofďŹ ciated.

Marlene Froese

THE MESSENGER

by the way Dave K. Schellenberg

Are we joyful as Christians?

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e sing “Rejoice the Lord is King! Your Lord and King adore.” And in another great hymn we break out with “Joyful, joyful we adore Thee God of glory, Lord of love…Ever singing march we onward. Victors in the midst of strife. Joyful music lifts us sunward In the triumph song of life.” And at Christmas we sing, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come! ” We say it: Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! The New Testament proclaims it. “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy,” said the angel of the Lord that first Christmas. Paul, imprisoned in Rome, wrote to the Philippians, “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). It is the second in line in the fruit of the Spirit—“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy” (Gal. 5:22). By now you will be wondering what I’m getting at, right? I’m wondering how joyful we are as Christians. According to my count joy appears 63 times in the New Testament and rejoice 43 times. In Philippians alone, we find joy six times and rejoice nine times. Does my life, your life exhibit this aspect of the Christian life? But, you might say, you don’t know my circumstances. I realize and have experienced that circumstances and events can affect us deeply. “Weeping” does endure for a night and sometimes longer. But the promise remains. Maybe the following would be applicable here: “Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” Some time ago an African June 15, 2005

children’s choir came to America. Later, they were asked for their impression of American Christians. Their reply is a wake-up call: “Christians here do not seem to have joy.” If their observation was correct, and maybe it was, then we have a lot of catching up to do. Chuck Swindoll in his book Laugh Again says he knows of no greater need today than that of joy. To have a countenance of joy need not cost much money, at least for me. I get joy from canning cut-up red, green and yellow bell peppers with the colours mixed in a jar. I joyfully mix dough for brown bread, except the kneading. I joyfully make sauerkraut in the fall. And another surge of joy comes when I give some away. Joy might come when bringing soup to a shut-in, a visit with a friend in hospital, a coffee break with a friend, or a host of other things. Now, of course, we are not talking of the joy that the world gives, but joy that comes from God working through us of His good pleasure. Christians, above all people, surely have cause to be joyful. Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow. Nehemiah relates that as Ezra read the law, people wept. But Nehemiah assured them that this was not a time to weep but to celebrate. “Go home and enjoy choice foods and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our God. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh. 8:10). I can imagine those Israelites walking about and slapping each other on the back in sheer joy. If “the joy of the Lord” makes us strong, it is an attribute we should covet. I believe this joy of the Lord in our hearts and lives helps us to be better witnesses and better able to live victoriously. This joy of the Lord helps us to overcome our fears. After having said all this, the question invariably comes to me: Am I a joyful Christian? All of a sudden it came to me that it’s really up to others to make this assessment of me. Yes, I would much like to be seen as a joyful Christian. But am I one? I’m sure I haven’t always been one when you saw me, but I T want to be one. M 15

JOHN DUECK 1946–2005

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of one of his saints (Psalm 116:15). John was born to George and Mary Dueck on May 21, 1946, in Morris, Man. He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour during his teen years and was baptized upon the confession of his faith and received into the Rosenort EM Church. Due to his intellectual limitations, John experienced many difficult challenges in his life. Although school was not a strong point, he was a perfectionist in many other areas, and enjoyed tidying, straightening up, keeping things in order, and physical work. During his growing up years John enjoyed working on the farm, milking

JEAN REIMER (nee PENNER) 1974–2005

Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” This was Jean’s chosen viewpoint of life. On December 6, 1974, Harry and Tina Penner welcomed their firstborn, Jean Ann, into their life. Shortly after she was joined by one brother Jerry, and followed by three sisters, Lynet, Ladine and Bonnie. As a young child she accepted the

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cows and doing chores. A highlight of his summers was baling with Dad. His bales and rows were the tightest and straightest in the area. In 1965 we moved to Arborg, Man. This was a difficult adjustment for him. He lived at home until 21, when he moved to Altona and joined the Occupational Workshop Program. Since then John also worked at workshops in Arborg and Steinbach and lived in several different homes. This past Christmas John received an award banner from Kindale Industries in Steinbach for his 25 years of service. John’s nieces and nephews always had a special place in his heart and he enjoyed teasing and joking with them. His genuine love for people and caring heart won him many friends. He was passionate about everything he did—whether singing, praying, loving, or working. Sundays were special days for John. Church was important to him, and he was an active participant in Sunday school. He always looked forward to Sunday lunches and faspas with Mom. He felt a big responsibility for Mom and was very protective of her. In July 2000 John moved into the ACL residence at 2 Blair Bay in Steinbach, where he lived until his passing. The staff and residents of Blair Bay quickly became like family to him, and he brought an extra spark to the home. He had a strong faith and love for the

Lord. John often expressed his wish that Jesus would take him home. On Tuesday, May 3, while out working with a residence staff member John collapsed and never recovered. John was looking forward to his 59th birthday on May 21. John will be lovingly remembered by his mother Mary; brothers Irvin (Rosalind), Bernie (Sarah), Eldon (Judy); sisters Pearl (Wilmer) Reimer, Corinne (Henry) Nickel, Elfrieda (Gerald) Kornelson, Doris (David) Andres; sisterin-law Helen (Peter) Friesen; 29 nieces and nephews; six great-nieces and –nephews. He was predeceased by his father George and brother Glen. John will also be deeply missed by his home mates Gladwin, Peter, and Johnny. Although we miss him so much already and feel saddened by his sudden passing, we are happy that he has gone to be with the Lord. The family expresses deep gratitude to the staff of Blair Bay for the love and care they showed to John over the past five years. The funeral service was held on May 6, 2005, at the Steinbach EM Church. Arrangements were entrusted to Birchwood Funeral Chapel. Donations in John’s memory can be made to the Steinbach Association for Community Living, 395 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z4. His Family

Lord as her personal Saviour. This was the beginning of an ever-deepening relationship with Christ. In 1995 Jean bravely packed her bags and left for Nipawin Bible Institute. This proved to be a pivotal experience in her life. It was a time filled with new experiences, new friends and a new understanding of God. It was during this time that a young fellow by the name of Larry caught Jean’s eye. They soon realized they were made for each other. On October 4, 1997, Larry and Jean made a commitment to each other before the Lord to be true to each other through sickness and health, for better for worse, till death do us part. Through the years Larry and Jean made a great team. When the diagnosis was confirmed, Larry and Jean clung to each other and more importantly to the Lord. As she went through numerous tests, doctor’s appointments and treatments, Scripture became even more alive and powerful than ever. Jean’s goal was to glorify and honour God through her actions. She gave of herself and encouraged others through

numerous phone calls, hand-made cards, cross-stitch mementoes, and gifts of handcrafted quilts. Even in the midst of her own trials, she invested in others with a listening ear, uplifting Bible verses and prayers of encouragement. Her heart’s cry was that those around her would be eager to study God’s Word, and have a vital relationship with our Lord Jesus. Jean expressed appreciation for all those who have shown so much love, care and support. She would also want to encourage each one of you to cling to the Word of God. John 8:32: “If you hold to my teaching you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” The funeral service was held Wednesday, May 11, at the Evangelical Mennonite Church, Blumenort, Man. Interment was at the Blumenort EMC Cemetery. If friends so desire donations in memory of Jean may be made to Mercy Ministries Canada, 6788–152 Street, Surrey, BC V3S 3L4. Her Family

THE MESSENGER

JACOB L. KROEKER 1920–2005

Jacob L. Kroeker of Steinbach, and formerly of Riverton (both in Manitoba), was born on February 15, 1920, to Jacob B. and Helena Kroeker near Morris, Man. He grew up on a farm along with six sisters and four brothers. Dad accepted Christ as his personal Saviour. In his late teens, he was baptized upon confession of his faith, at the Rosenort Evangelical Mennonite Church. On December 6, 1942, he married our mother, Elisabeth Reimer. Because of his strong commitment to non-resistance he had to leave for Ontario the day after the wedding, leaving his new bride with her parents. Here he worked in a logging camp along with other conscientious objectors. After he built their small home, Mom joined him. Many of the friendships he developed here have lasted to this day. After the war, Dad and Mom farmed in Rosenort for a number of years. In 1952, looking for more land, Dad moved his family, which now included five children, to the Riverton area. Here he cleared land to begin a new family farm. Dad would say, “We kind of expected to always be poor.” Five more children were born to Dad and Mom, the youngest of whom died in infancy. Later a foster son, Kevin, came to join the family for a number of years. Dad always made sure he was well prepared for a new crop season. Come spring, machinery and seed were ready to go. In his many years of farming Dad saw bumper crops as well as some trying years. Whatever the year held, his faith in God’s provision never wavered. Family chores were varied as the farm grew to include turkeys, hogs, and cattle. With the help of the entire family, Dad was able to provide a good living for all of us.

Obituary length: Because of the number of obituaries we are receiving, we now request that they be 500 words or less. –Editors

June 15, 2005

In time his four sons took over the family farm. Dad continued to take an active part on the farm until his retirement. He took a keen interest in what was now his sons’ farm to his final days. Alongside of farming Dad took an active part in Mennville Church, the local school board and the surrounding community. He served as a minister in the church and as lead pastor for a few years. He was also a member of the church mission board and of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference mission board, which included traveling to Mexico and Central America. Dad always enjoyed traveling and when this became too difficult he enjoyed many memories of past travels. With retirement, Dad took up woodworking and carving. He amazed us all by the many hours he spent at this new hobby and by the final products, which included items of furniture and very intricate bird carvings. Visiting and hospitality in the home were always a priority. Many school teachers made our home their home while they taught in the community. Many guests will remember being greeted by his warm, “Welcome here!” Over the years, numerous friendships were formed. His concern for the spiritual well being of family and friends was always evident in his prayers. In 1997, Dad had a massive heart attack, which, over the years, slowed him down considerably. In August of 2000, Mom’s broken hip led to a move to Woodhaven Manor in Steinbach. Surrounded by many friends, old and new, Dad really thrived socially here. In December of 2002, Dad and Mom celebrated 60 good years together. Soon after this, however, Mom required increasingly more care and was moved to Rest Haven, the adjoining nursing home. This separation was very difficult for Dad. His own health was failing and Dad often expressed his desire to go to heaven to meet his Saviour, Jesus. We often heard, “The door of grace is open” or “At night when I can’t sleep I’m so glad I can talk to my heavenly Father.” But Dad was not a complainer. When asked, “How are you doing?” his usual response was, “Not too bad.” After several hospital stays because of a failing heart, Dad seemed to rally for a time. Since walking had become too difficult, he would take his scooter to Rest Haven to see Mom. On April 26, 2005, he “scootered” to Rest Haven to have his usual 2 o’clock tea with Mom. This turned out to be his last. Later that afternoon, shortly after arriving back at his apartment, Dad passed away.

He is survived by his wife, Elisabeth; nine children, Rosalind and Irvin Dueck, Laura and Allan Friesen, Dennis and Janice, Erma, David and Agnes, Elda and John Enns, Ray and Louella, Clarice and Roger Plett, Vern and Anne; 27 grandchildren, and their families. As a family we want to express our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Ilchyna, the nurses and homecare staff at Woodhaven, and the many relatives and friends who visited Dad faithfully. Dad, we saw how your faith in God sustained you to the very end. We will miss you, but we are very happy for you. We thank you for this example of faith and strong commitment to your Saviour, Jesus. We look forward to seeing you in heaven. In your own words, Dad, “Be seeing you!” His Family

weddings REIMER-SCHWARTZ: John G. Reimer of Landmark, Man., and Hilda Schwartz of Kleefeld, Man., were married on November 2, 2003. SAWATSKY-ZACHARIAS: Kris Sawatsky of Landmark, Man., and Jill Zacharias of Winnipeg, Man., were married on November 7, 2003. FRIESEN-LOEWEN: Peter, son of John and Maria Friesen of Morris, Man., and Rhonda, daughter of Ed and Margaret Loewen of Rosenort, Man., were married on May 16, 2004, at Pleasant Valley EMC, with Pastor Darren Plett of Rosenort officiating. The couple lives in Morris. WIELER-KEHLER: Kevin Wieler of Landmark, Man., and Diane Kehler of Steinbach, Man., were married on June 12, 2004. WHITE-REIMER: Brian White of Winnipeg, Man., and Cherilee Reimer of Landmark, Man., were married on July 10, 2004. STOREY-PLETT: Kenton Storey of Landmark, Man., and Meghan Plett of Landmark were married on July 11, 2004. WIEBE-PLETT: Luke Wiebe of Steinbach, Man., and Tiphanie Plett of Landmark, Man., were married on July 17, 2004. HIEBERT-GIESBRECHT: Jegar Hiebert of Landmark, Man., and Stephanie Giesbrecht of Landmark were married on July 31, 2004. BARG-THIESSEN: Jon Barg of Landmark, Man., and Corrie Thiessen of Winnipeg, Man., were married on August 22, 2004. REIMER-WIEBE: Elmer Reimer of Landmark, Man., and Nettie Wiebe of Hillside Beach, Man., were married on August 29, 2004. REIMER-THOMSON: Brent Reimer of Landmark, Man., and Leah Thomson of B.C. were married on September 12, 2004. The couple lives in B.C.

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MARGARET (KROEKER) LOEWEN 1910–2005

“Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39). Margaret was born on March 29, 1910, to Reverend Frank B. and Aganetha Kroeker of the Rosenort, Man., area. As the oldest child in a large rural family she early learned the meaning of hard work and responsibility. Margaret was still a young girl when she made three important decisions that would remain benchmarks in her life. First and most importantly, she made a lasting commitment to follow Jesus. Shortly thereafter she was baptized on the public confession of her faith and became, for a period of over 70 years, a faithful and supportive member of the church at Rosenort. In June of 1932 she married Peter Loewen, a handsome young man who grew up within a mile of the vivacious Margaret with the beautiful smile. Life on the parched Prairies of the Depression years was difficult for the young couple. Together they dreamed of a time when they would be able to start farming, a dream that became a reality when better economic times followed. This was the life that Mother enjoyed and it ended only when Dad, because of failing health, no longer was able to carry out the demanding work that the farm required. Mother excelled at many things. Her cooking and baking skills were wellknown. Mother enjoyed her garden, and the produce that it bore was preserved for later use. Mother’s house was always in order. As a seamstress she had few equals and in a time when being fashionable was not “in,” Mother took pride in seeing her family neatly and tastefully dressed. Mother enjoyed quilting, and her fine stitching was a work of artistic skill. Mother’s characteristics are a template

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for us to follow. She was thoughtful, not quick to speak or pass judgment. She had a warm and compassionate heart for the stranger, the lonely, and the sick. Mother displayed a sense of fairness and made it a point to treat all members fairly. Her love for Dad was deep and supportive. Her family was important to her and her prayers were for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to follow the God she loved. The Psalmist has written that the length of our days is 70 years, or 80 if we have the strength (Psalm 90:10). Mother exceeded the higher limit by 15 years. Although there were many sunny times, there were also days when Mother experienced pain: leaving the farm and moving to Rosenort, selling the house and moving to Rosewood Apartments. Although the first few days at Rosewood were peacefully and happy years, Mother more frequently expressed her loneliness for Dad. The family also realized that our dear Mom would soon require more day-to-day attention. Her resistance to another move, to another home, caused us concern: how would we be able to convince her to accept another change. It was a definite answer to our prayers that when the day came for the move to the Red River Vally Lodge (Morris), Mother sat calmly in her rocking chair as we began the emotional process of preparing for the move that we all realized would be the last one. Mother adjusted to her new home rather well, although her wish was still to move back to Rosenort, her home for so many years. In later years, when her communication was limited, she would squeeze our hands, invite us to come back soon, flash her beautiful smile, and bless us with the three words that she had used so often: “I love you.” On Monday, May 9, 2005, at about 1:30 a.m., with Lorne and Harry standing vigil at her bedside, Mother silently took her last breath. She was home at last! Mother is loving her remembered by her son Lorne and his wife Arlene; daughter Norma and her husband Harry Koop; daughter Elda and her husband Allan Dueck; daughter Eleanor and her husband Dennis Siemens; daughter-inlaw Val Loewen; eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren; her sisters Helen, Tina, Lucy, Eva, Elma and her husband Burton Johnston; and her brother Abe and his wife Helen and sister-in-law Margaret Kroeker. She was predeceased by her husband Peter L. Loewen, her son Randall, her parents, five sisters and three brothers. The family thanks those who prayed

for and visited Mother over the years. We thank the many people who have expressed their sympathy to the family. Finally, we are grateful to the staff at the Red River Valley Lodge for their compassionate care of Mother. “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die like everybody else, will live again” (John 11:25). Her Family

births PENNER – to Jordan and Jodi Penner of Landmark, Man., a son, Ryland Kennedy, on November 5, 2003. ENNS – to Duane and Jacquie Enns of Landmark, Man., a son, Jericho Cole, on November 5, 2003. HIEBERT – to Ray and Audrey Hiebert of Landmark, Man., a son, Jesse Edward, on December 28, 2003. THIESSEN – to Allan and Robyn Thiessen of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Arianna Akeyla Reid, on February 5, 2004. KOOP – to Matthew and Karin Koop of Landmark, Man., a son, Zane Matthew, on February 28, 2004. HUDSON – to Noel and Melanie Hudson of Elm Creek, Man., a daughter, Isabelle Melanie, on March 4, 2004. MacDONALD – to Darrell and Angela MacDonald of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Kyla Rochelle Lyn, on March 15, 2004. BARG – to Peter and Vera Barg of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Danika Elisabeth, on March 23, 2004. PLETT – to David and Lisa Plett of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Aviendah Rachelle Appleyard, on April 9, 2004. PLETT – to Scott and Marcia Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Samuel Bradley Quinn, on May 28, 2004. WARKENTINE – to Paul and Cheryle Warkentine of Landmark, Man., a son, Bryce William, on June 24, 2004. PLETT – to Kelvin and Kathy Plett of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Kieanna Danae, on June 29, 2004. BRAUN – to Russell and Sarah Braun of Landmark, Man., a son, Montgomery Menno, on July 7, 2004. BUCHOLZ – to Scott and Janine Bucholz of Landmark, Man., a daughter, Liliana Gayle, on August 20, 2004. DOERKSEN – to Don and Val Doerksen of Niverville, Man., a daughter, Brooklyn Jade, on October 4, 2004. PLETT – to Kevin and Melissa Plett of Landmark, Man., a son, Joseph Archie, on October 26, 2004. DYCK – to Gary and Andrea Dyck of Steinbach, Man., a son, Keegan Benjamin, on February 2, 2005.

THE MESSENGER

shoulder tapping Executive Position Applications are being invited for an administrative position with the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, responsible to the Board of Trustees, Board of Missions, and the General Board. This position is a sharing of 120 percent, with exact percentages to be negotiated. 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. Note: This position is open to male and female applicants. Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 E-mail emconf@mts.net Applications should be in by August 31, 2005. Anola Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a fulltime pastor to bring solid leadership and teaching to our church family of approximately 130 people. This person will help equip the people in our church family to reach out in their area of influence and lead others to Christ. AFC is a rural church located 25 minutes east of Winnipeg and is comprised of people from diverse cultural and church backgrounds. Contact Orville Friesen at 204-371-9922 or ofriesen@nutrihealthgroup.com. CSSM Ministries Manitoba, with six camps, seeks summer help: an assistant to the public relations/development coordinator, two vacation Bible school teachers, head cooks for Valley View (near MacGregor) and Gimli, lifeguards, cabin leaders (at least 16 years old) and camp health officers (at least standard first aid with current CPR certification). Indicate camp of choice. Also sought is a director for Valley View (MacGregor, Man.) to start September 1, 2005 (negotiable). Contact Branch Director at mb@cssm.ca or CSSM Ministries Manitoba, 200189 Henderson Hwy. Winnipeg, MB R2L 1L7. Phone 204-668-CSSM (2776) or fax 204-667-1496. Mount Salem EMC in southern Ontario seeks a full-time senior pastor. Education flexible and some pastoral experience preferred. Services are in English. Attendance is around 150 with much room and potential for growth. The pastor will work with two lay ministers and two deacons. Contact Isaak Fehr at 519-773-2564 or Bill Siemens at bhsiemens@sympatico.ca. Endeavour Fellowship Chapel in east-central Saskatchewan, with a congregation of about 50, is currently looking for a pastor. Contact Tom Treen (Elders’ Chairman) at 306-547-3383 or tdpromise@sasktel.net.

June 15, 2005

Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission seeks an executive director/financial manager to serve the Burkina Faso Partnership Council. This position requires administrative skills, experience with missions in Africa, and an ability to work with expatriate and national personnel. French and English are required and Jula would be a definite asset. For information contact Len Barkman at emclen@mts.net or 204-326-6401. Steinbach EMC is looking for a motivated, energetic person with strong organizational skills to be full-time pastor of youth ministries. This position is available immediately. The applicant would primarily be involved in coordinating junior and senior high church programs. Contact Henry Klassen, chair of search committee, 63 Donald Ave., Steinbach, MB R5G 2B5. Phone 204-326-6068 or email henryk2@mts.net. Morweena Christian School seeks three twograde split homeroom teachers: grades 5–6, 7–8, 11–12. Teachers are responsible for core subjects and to provide recess and lunch supervision. Valid teacher’s certificate required for grades 11–12. MCS is operated by Morweena EMC, and situated 25 kms northwest of Arborg, Man. MCS is dedicated to providing K–12 in an environment holding a high respect for biblical values. Send resume and pastor’s reference to Tim Reimer, Box 1030, Arborg, MB R0C 0A0. Fax 204-364-3117 or e-mail morweenachristia nschool@yahoo.com. 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. Contact Kenton Barkman, Box 576, Riverton, MB R0C 2R0. Phone 204-378-5623 or e-mail kenton@mts.net. Continental Mission, Inc., seeks a director. Working largely with First Nations people in northern Manitoba, this 63-year-old faith mission seeks a visionary team player with a heart for Native ministry. Many opportunities for ministry exist, and the mission is ready to be taken to the next level. The director will give overall leadership, overseeing a staff of about 20 missionaries.

Worship and theology discussion Announcing an open noon-hour Worship and Theology discussion at the EMC Convention. Are you interested in discussing how current EMC practice and style of worship has an impact on the theology of our churches? Join us at noon on Saturday, July 2, in the PRBI dining hall in Sexsmith, Alta. If you cannot attend the convention, but would be interested in such a discussion, please contact Tim Rogalsky, Music and Worship Committee chair, Board of Church Ministries (trogalsky@cmu.ca).

Evangelical Anabaptist Committee

Care about Evangelical Anabaptist theology and our conference? Consider serving as a volunteer member of the national Evangelical Anabaptist Committee, which serves the Board of Church Ministries and the Board of Ministers and Deacons. This committee meets about quarterly by conference call. Contact Executive Secretary Terry Smith (204-326-6401) or BCM chairperson Stan Hamm (204-433-7488).

Candidates should have ministry and administrative experience. The director is expected to relocate to Thompson, Man., a city that serves as a hub for much of the mission’s activities. Contact: Mel Friesen at CMI, 159 Cree Road, Thompson, MB R8N 0C2; phone 204-778-4491; e-mail cmi@mts.net. CSSM National Office seeks a national director, a committed Christian team leader with excellent academics, a decade of proven ministry leadership, pragmatic and strategic ideas, biblical purity, and good communication. Contact Ferdi vanDongen, searchcommittee@cssm.ca. Also sought is an office administrator. Contact CSSM National Office, 189 Henderson Highway, Winnipeg, MB R2L 1L7 or call 204-667-8207. Email: national@cssm.ca. 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. After many years in the making, we are pleased to announce a new long-term EMC team for Central Asia. This team will be a purpose-driven community that will serve others in the name of Christ. Central Asia has been overlooked and misunderstood by the West for centuries. There are possibilities for all kinds of professions and trades to be utilized. Most importantly, we are looking for people who love God and people. It will be an incarnational ministry of language, cultural and religious learning, and relationship building. With this background, true inter-faith dialogue can take place and the peace of God’s reign can increase in our world. Leadership will be provided by EMC missionaries with the Conference providing support and accountability. If you want to experience community and God in an ancient needy land, contact the conference office for details at emconf@mts.net. Please pray for God to have mercy on us and on those we serve.

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the personal touch

The

Impact

by Delores Barkman

“Call 911! We need an ambulance. Both people are unconscious, possibly dead.”

An elderly gentleman was being admitted in a small town hospital, having just arrived by ambulance. He was unconscious but his heart rate was fine. He had a few broken ribs and minor cuts on his face from glass hurled in the accident. He would survive. In minutes, he stirred and struggled to open his eyes. Total bewilderment showed in his eyes, then panic. “Where’s my wife? What happened? Is my wife okay? Where is she?” “Sir, she’s on another floor right here in this hospital. Are there any areas of pain?” The head nurse checked his vital signs, and the man questioned where his wife was. Everyone was vague. The sheriff arrived and came to the man’s bedside. Heaviness showed on the sheriff’s face as he pulled up a chair and sat down. “Are you feeling okay, sir?” the sheriff inquired. “Yes, all right, but for a few places,” the man replied. “Do you recall anything about your accident?” The man shook his head. The sheriff gently laid a hand on the man’s knee. “You’ve been in quite a serious car accident. Your car was hit while you were crossing a service road and your car was totaled.” Knowing the answer, the man asked, “And my wife?” “She died upon impact. She did not suffer but died instantly.” How does one process this news? He felt incredibly alone. The man’s eyes filled with tears but he remained silent. “May I pray with you, sir?” asked the sheriff. The man nodded with a slight smile of joy for this sheriff with whom he now felt a connection in his spirit. After prayer, an inner strength filled the man and in his eyes was a look of peace. The sheriff knew here was a man of faith and he squeezed his hand. An X-ray technician was waiting in the hallway. With misty eyes, the sheriff left the room. As the technician worked, he wondered, “How could this man smile when he had been given such dreaded news? He seems so calm.” The man was cooperative. Two nurses came in to give him medication, take his blood

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pressure, and check his bruises. “May I go see my wife?” he asked. “We’ll just check with the doctor, sir.” The man was wheeled to another floor to see the cold body of his wife. “She looks so peaceful and beautiful,” he thought. “We were just talking about heaven and now look at her. She’s gone and beat me to it.” He felt her hands and kissed her cheek. Yes, she was cold. Her body was not needed anymore. Tears trickled down his cheeks. He was ready to return to his room. The nurse and other staff members marveled at this display of love, strength and faith. Saddened for him, they felt he had a hidden strength to carry him. By next day’s end, some of his children had flown out to accompany him home. “He’s leaving,” one nurse said to another. “The man in 201 is leaving?” “Yes. His family is with him now.” “I’m going to say goodbye. He was so special,” she said. The X-ray technician came in just then. “The man in 201 is leaving?” he asked. “Yes, he is.” “He’s a wonderful man. A strong faith, I think. I have to say good-bye to him.” Hospital staff arrived to wish the man well and say goodbye. The family was amazed at the bond their father had established in this hospital so far from home. In one and a half days, this man had made a great impact on people. Years have passed and this man still has an impact upon many people who meet him. He listens in coffee shops, mall benches or park walkways. He still has that quiet inner strength and faith. T He has a great impact on me. This man is my Dad. M This accident happened in February 1985. My Mom, Helen (nee Reimer), and Dad were members of Blumenort EMC all their married life; I attended there growing up. Dad has remarried. Peter and Margaret Barkman live in Abbotsford, B.C. Later, my husband Murray and I were involved in an EMC church plant in Edmonton. We moved back to Steinbach in 2000.

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