The Messenger Vol .44 No. 5 March 8, 2006

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 44 NUMBER 5 MARCH 8, 2006

You will be my

WITNESSES Is missions still relevant to the local church?

The

Messenger

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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.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. 07 – April 5 (copy due March 24)

editorials

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Many regions make one conference

ecently Ed Peters, Steinbach EFC senior pastor, reminded us of a familiar truth: Many members make up one Body of Christ.

In eight years as executive secretary and editor, it’s been my genuine privilege to travel to all regions of our denomination and to preach in two-thirds of our churches.

My observation isn’t profound or original: If many parts make up one body, then many regions make up one conference.

In my travels I’ve glimpsed strengths of ministry and diverse cultures. There’s a common connection: Christ. There’s also a more fragile connection: The desire to stay together.

For which EMC region can you list a strength? All regions have strengths

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needed by the wider EM Conference. We need, for example, the stability of Region 8 (Steinbach and area), the church-planting vision of Region 9 (southern Ontario), and the cultural diversity of Region 3 (northcentral Manitoba and Saskatchewan).

Sometimes I hear people from various regions say, “We don’t feel that connected to the conference.” Each talks as if it’s a unique observation that is somehow justified by distance.

We are, though, joined together by history (of how individual churches are started) and choice. If there’s a weak connection, there are ways of strengthening it.

T We need each other. M Terry M. Smith

Peace education in EMC churches

hat is the EMC doing about peace education?

Moderator Ron Penner and I tried to answer that question at a February gathering in Winnipeg with other Mennonite conference representatives and MCC staff people.

What should we have said?

Here’s part of what I reported: The EMC has an official Peace Church position and a wider unofficial practice. There are EMCers who demonstrate their concern for peace on various levels—in our personal lives, with our neighbours, at work, involvement with MCC and MDS, and more. This is probably our stronger emphasis—peace in lifestyle.

The EMC has been relatively weak in verbally presenting and defending the peace position. Parts of the EMC have over-emphasized differences between Evangelicals and Anabaptists; that makes it less likely that peace teaching will be accepted by some people. Our conference needs to be more intentional about what it expects of ministers and deacons in matters of peace teaching.

MCC must be perceived as an organization

that is concerned about personal faith in Christ; without that, its concern about peace and social justice will be mistaken as liberalism by some in our Evangelical Mennonite circles.

What did other educators say? The Mennonite church has separated from the Church, when it is called to separate from the world. The Brethren in Christ expects new pastors to take a core of four courses on its history, doctrine and polity. We need to reclaim evangelical language. It’s important to develop biblical language when talking about peace issues. Christianity is about more than pacifism. Separation is not in terms of dress or appearance, but in values.

Youth are not as denominationally loyal. Many have grown into adulthood under the influence of youth ministry as entertainment. Many youth pastors have not had training and nurture in peace theology and witness. Still, there are youth and young adults who are passionate about peace and who have much to teach their T elders. M Terry M. Smith

THE MESSENGER

letters Follow early Anabaptists on baptism It appears as though there is a sentiment in EMC that wants to move towards accepting as church members those who were baptized in infancy without being re-baptized. Interesting, this, in light of the recent resurgence of interest in historic Anabaptism. The very word Anabaptist means re-baptized!

The first generation Mennonites would have been baptized in infancy, and as an act of faithfulness to Jesus Christ, and obedience to Scripture, voluntarily chose to be re-baptized. The Believer’s Church is voluntary. We are not born into it any more than we are forced to join or remain in it. If a person of any stripe is making a choice to voluntarily join an organization, it is only reasonable that they live within the expectations of that organization.

The church is not exempt from this.

The model of baptizing believers is clear in scripture. If we are to be biblically faithful, how can we accept as valid the baptism of an unknowing, unrepentant, unwilling participant?

The early Mennonites were obedient to scripture on this issue to the point of being imprisoned, burnt, tortured, and sawed in two.

I believe that in the EMC, which is confessionally both Evangelical and Mennonite (believer’s baptism is not a peripheral issue in Evangelicalism or in Anabaptism), we should follow the early Anabaptists in obedience on this issue.

They did not give in to the pressure to subject scriptural truth to the powerful culture around them. They understood their culture through the eyes of Scripture.

We too must understand our culture and our circumstances through the eyes of Scripture, rather than subjecting scriptural truth to our powerful postmodern culture. After all, our authority is Jesus Christ and His Word, not what is pragmatic or expedient. Pushing aside the example of scripture is not a necessary step in order to be gentle or sensitive.

On a more positive note, I would like to commend Pierre Gilbert for his excellent article, What does it mean to be a Christian? At a time when true and historic Anabaptist doctrine is being challenged, it is nice to see an emphasis on the entirety of what Scripture teaches, namely, both salvation and discipleship.

To be a Christian is much more than just to be in community. Christian Community is more than getting together

March 8, 2006

to share experiences and do nice things for people, although it may well include these things. To be a Christian is to put one’s faith in the saving work of Jesus Christ, and to live a life of obedience in the context of Christian community from that point on.

True Anabaptist and true Evangelical thinking has historically believed this to be true. Personal salvation and personal discipleship are pre-requisites to living faithfully in Christian community. By the act of accepting Christ, we become before we belong to His Church. We cannot truly belong before we become born again.

It appears that where there is an overemphasis of community and works over against personal salvation, emphasis on heaven and hell seem to be lacking. When emphasis on eternal destiny is lacking, teaching on the redemptive grace of Jesus Christ is also often found lacking.

Community, yes. A community of those who realize that our righteousness is as filthy rags to the Lord. A community of individuals who understand our own depravity, and who rely on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.

Matthew Plett Landmark, Man.

Shocked at suggestion Although not a member of the EMC, I am blessed by The Messenger and look forward to it. I’ve always respected the EMC as a biblically balanced faith community in the best evangelical Anabaptist tradition, and have enjoyed fellowship with many of you. Two of our children are graduates of SBC secondary school.

I was shocked to read the February 8 editorial [How might we respond?] suggesting, “In some cases, and for pastoral reasons, individuals baptized in infancy can be accepted as members without rebaptism....” This is breaking new ground and goes contrary to the biblically based belief and practice of five hundred years of evangelical Anabaptism. Infant baptism is not baptism.

Believer’s baptism is an essential element of what it is to be an Anabaptist in the best biblical tradition. It cost the lives of hundreds of believers, probably thousands, as Satan raged against those who were obedient to their Lord. The blood of the martyrs was shed because of divine truth.

The historical record is an account of those who suffered greatly because of their determination as believers to follow Jesus in the waters of baptism. As the EMC confession of faith declares, “It is an act of obedience which identifies the believers with the church of Christ.” The EMMC confession declares “baptism is commanded for those who have accepted salvation by grace through faith.”

Terry Miller Sidney, Man.

Editor’s note: The editorial How might we respond? (Feb. 8) looked at a pastoral response; it did not say infant baptism was valid.

coming events March 24–25 Church Planting in Canada SBC Leadership Conference Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. 204-326-6451, ext. 222 March 26 Kingdom Ventures International Easter HymnSing Portage Avenue MB Church Winnipeg, Man. 204-224-4175 April 1 Pathways to Wholeness MCC Mental Health Day for people living with a mental illness, their friends and family Speakers: Horst Peters, Del Epp, Nigel Bart St. Benedict’s Retreat Centre Winnipeg, Man. 204-261-6381 or 888-622-6337 April 1 MDS Banquet Richmond Park Church Brandon, Man. Guest Speaker: Kevin King Executive Coordinator 866-261-1274 April 30 SBC Graduation Steinbach EMC Steinbach, Man. 204-326-6451 June 2–3 Wild at Heart: Live in Canada Centre Street Church Calgary, Alta. www.wildatheartcanada.com July 7–9 EMC Annual Convention Speaker: Ron Sider Winnipeg, Man. 204-326-6401

mis is

still relevant

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e asked this question lately as we reviewed the effectiveness of our local missions conference.

There’s a feeling out there that missions has shifted so substantially in the last decade that we question the need for foreign involvement. As a pastor, I was supposed to reconsider the matter and I have found four lessons in the book of Acts.

It’s relevant if we understand mission What is mission? Is this a biblical word? Maybe we should stop using it. You can’t find it in the New Testament. It just seems to separate the here from the there. Mission is out there, it’s not here.

Acts 1:8, that popular missions passage, doesn’t mention mission. We read “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

This is part of Jesus’ answer when disciples ask what their focus should be. Don’t worry about the Last Days, Jesus says, just concentrate on being witnesses to My resurrection and all that means.

The key is to be witnesses. Whether here in Jerusalem or there on the Galapagos Islands is irrelevant. Be a witness of Jesus Christ. Or is that irrelevant?

All four gospels end with a command to spread this message across the earth: “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew), “Go into all the world and preach” (Mark), “Repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations; you are witnesses of these 4

THE MESSENGER

sions

to the local church?

Pastor Darryl Klassen

things” (Luke), and “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John).

Acts continues the story and shows how they did go.

There is a definite challenge Jesus gives to anyone who knows the truth: Wherever you are, be a witness.

How then, do we see missions? And how are we being obedient to Christ’s command?

It’s relevant if we can look beyond ourselves As the story of Acts and the Early Church proceeds, the disciples waited in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit. When He descended and filled the disciples, they spoke in tongues and Peter preached a powerful message where 3,000 were added to their number.

Then what happened? The Church enjoyed a time of growth and amazing breakthroughs…but just in Jerusalem.

Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth were relatively untouched.

Only in Acts 8:1–4 does the gospel begin to spread from Jerusalem, and that by default. Believers left the mega-church of Jerusalem because of persecution. Like a blacksmith smashes a red hot iron and watches the sparks fly, God allows persecution to get Christians out of Jerusalem and the Word spreads to Judea and Samaria.

Our Mennonite ancestors left Russia because their rights to religion, nonresistance, and self-education were being taken away. In 1874 they came to Canada, but not for mission work. What was the prevailing attitude March 8, 006

of EMC in the 1930s? “No mission involvement.” Some said, “The only real mission work is done with a milking stool and pitchfork,” meaning our work is farming, not evangelizing.

Sue Barkman wrote in Ever-Widening Circles, an earlier history of EMC missions, “Basically the Kleine Gemeinde membership had little understanding of a Christian’s responsibility toward the unsaved and this was the reason for their feelings. Some felt that if God wanted to convert the unsaved, then he would see to it himself. The concept of most people was that the ‘heathen’ were not really lost, so it was better to leave them alone rather than give them a chance to reject Christ.”

Who changed EMCer’s minds in those days? Young people.

They began meeting, studying Scripture and singing. Soon the Holy Spirit revealed their responsibility to obey Christ’s command to “go into all the world.” Idealistic young people in their passion said, “Forget bureaucracy and tradition. Let’s do this.”

Acts 8 and our own history teach that we must look beyond ourselves. Missions is relevant. Jesus said go. We must be witnesses or we will be a stagnant social club that only takes care of itself.

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It’s relevant if we send the missionaries As the gospel spread throughout Judea and Samaria, the Church at Antioch was established, and Barnabas and Saul rose up as teachers.

In Acts 13:2–3 the first “missionaries” were chosen to go beyond the JudeanSamaritan borders.

We are the next chapter in the book of Acts and the program of the Holy Spirit.

Three principles stand out. First, it was while they were worshipping and fasting that the Holy Spirit spoke to them as a body. Acts teaches us that witnessing is a work of the Holy Spirit. Mission agencies administrate, but ultimately the Holy Spirit calls and makes the work successful.

Second, they laid their hands on Barnabas and Saul and sent them.

We can’t send people to Winnipeg, Manitoba, or to Asuncion, Paraguay, without praying and laying hands on them.

Third, the Church sends. An individual may feel called, but the Church must confirm and send that person. The Holy Spirit chooses to work through the community of faith.

Mission work is not an individual effort.

Ultimately, relevant mission depends on seeing the need. What Antioch saw was the need. If we see a need in a neighbouring community or somewhere in the world that a gifted person in our Church could help, that gives relevance. We see the need; we send the people. We are the senders.

Are we looking for someone to send?

Are we fasting and praying about it?

It’s relevant if we see ourselves as missionaries Acts ends in this way: “For two whole years Paul stayed there (Rome) in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 28:30–31).

A certain preacher said this: “This is how the book of Acts ends. Note that it does not end with Paul’s death or with the Word being snuffed out. There is 6

not really a conclusion to this letter. This is because we are the continuing story of Acts. You are the continuing story.” Is that what Luke intended by ending his book this way? Perhaps not, but it makes a good point. We are the next chapter in the book of Acts and the program of the Holy Spirit.

Just as missions is not a biblical term, neither is missionary.

Missionary separates you and me from witnessing for Jesus.

It’s a stumbling block if we see only those who go overseas as missionaries—heroes of the faith who go to dark jungles where Christ’s light has not been seen. This is a mistaken perspective.

You are missionaries. We are witnesses of the risen Christ.

The difference is this: Some of us witness here and some of us witness over there. The similarity is that a person can work anywhere with any gift and call it ministry. The key is the need.

Are you needed more here or there?

Foreign missions is irrelevant to the local church if we are not doing mission locally. Local mission is irrelevant if we do not look beyond ourselves to see what needs can be met abroad. Needs must be investigated and prayerfully considered. Prayer and fasting, searching of the Holy Spirit are needed to tap shoulders.

The Holy Spirit is the empowering presence to witness and bring the message of Jesus to near and far.

Our Church must seek the Spirit and the vision to reach our world…or we neglect the purpose that Jesus calls us to.

Witness is relevant to the local church. Let us bear witness to what T Jesus has done. M Darryl Klassen is senior pastor of Kleefeld EMC in southern Manitoba.

THE MESSENGER

with our missionaries

32 EMCers attend national church planting congress in Toronto A vision without an action plan is just a hallucination.

This quote was projected onto the large screen at the front of Queensway Cathedral in Toronto, Ont., during the first session of MOSAIC, a national church planting conference.

EMC has a vision for church planting and is excited about developing their action plan. Four years ago, only two members of the EMC attended the National Church Planting Congress, this year there were 32.

From November 16–18, 2005, we spent three days being inspired by workshops, plenary sessions, small group and one-on-one discussions, and a wealth of resources available for purchase.

Peter and Trudy Dueck did a marvelous job of bringing all the EMC participants together by arranging our accommodations, some of our meals and our discussion times. It helped to create a sense of community among our

group as they led times of prayer and discussion that focused specifically on church planting within our conference.

Highlights of the Congress were the plenary session speakers. Joyce Herron is the director of Jacob’s Well, a relationally driven ministry in the downtown east side of Vancouver, Canada’s poorest neighborhood.

Herron challenged us to rethink our attitudes and ministry toward marginalized people.

“There is no holistic announcement of the Kingdom of God without embracing the poor,” she said. One specific question she raised related to our Christian responsibility to children in foster care. “Can we call ourselves Christians if we are not caring for the orphans?” What kind of a difference could it make if Christians saw it as our responsibility to take in foster children?

Rev. Ray Aldred is a member of the Swan River Cree Nation in Alberta.

(Standing) Sheila Koop, Audrey Brandt, Antonia Pitta, Troy Selley, Wayne Friesen, Audrey Friesen, David Kruse, Carlos Vera, Jake Enns, Kathy Klassen, Richard Klassen (seated) Conroy Koop, Esther Pittta, Dave Thiessen, John Dyck, David Wiebe, Audrey Wiebe, Cyndy Warkentin, Ruth ? Anna Enns (floor) Trudy Dueck, Eric Isaac, Darren Plett, Aime Riemer with Hannah, Andrew Reimer, Abe Enns, Robyn Thiessen, Tammy Kruse, (lying) Peter Dueck, Gord Penner (missing) Harry Brandt and Sol Beaulieu

March 8, 2006

He opened with a quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, “It is more immoral to do nothing, than to do the wrong thing.”

Aldred encouraged us to see the intrinsic value of the aboriginal people because God created them and placed them where he did.

People may value individual aboriginals but not value them as a whole. We need a bigger picture of Jesus, not just our “stunted, white, western way,” he said. We need a picture “as big as the whole world but small enough to explain to a child.”

Erwin McManus, the keynote speaker, is lead pastor of Mosaic, an innovative and international congregation based in Los Angeles, Cal. McManus made radical suggestions and raised hard questions about how we have traditionally done church.

Have we become a consumer church, feeding already fat Christians? Do we look like the church Jesus died for on the cross?

“The church isn’t here for the Christians,” he said. “The Church is here for the world.” “Churches need to be what a desperate world needs.” “In the flow of community, people come to Jesus.” When we meet, we need to create a place where people can “swim in the presence of Jesus.”

This is only the tip of the iceberg of what we heard and were affected by as each of us had opportunity to attend additional workshops. We were given a renewed sense of purpose in continuing the church plant we were already involved in, or were eager to get involved in a church plant.

There was a sense of passion and excitement sparked in each of the people who attended the Congress that left us eager to talk about it and how God had spoken to us individually. If you want to get a first-hand report, ask someone who attended Mosiac 2005; they’d love to talk about it.

Cyndy Warkentin Robyn Thiessen

Paraguay

Reflecting on Lucero

On September 1, 2005, coming off of the night shift at 6:30 a.m., my time of service at the Lucero Hospital in Tres Palmas, Paraguay, came to a close. The three years and three months was a time filled with countless joys, a number of sorrows, and many challenges.

Processing all I experienced and saw—coming to understand many, to accept some, and challenge others—has been an ongoing process. It continues even as we move on to other areas of ministry within the same culture.

Working in a cross-cultural health care context was very stretching. My Canadian perspectives of health and health care were challenged on many points, confidentiality, and patients’ rights, just to name a few.

My ideas of the sick role and the family’s role in making decisions on the patient’s behalf did not fit the Paraguayan context. My understanding of doctor and nurse roles and relationships was frustrated and stretched.

I enjoyed many of the diverse tasks in my work at an interior (country) hospital, such as working in a clinic and hospital setting at the same time, tending the fireplace in winter time, helping to pushstart a tractor that had been driven to the hospital to get medication, and generally, dealing with whatever came

SBC Alumni

SBC Alumni

Connect with college friends by attending these events!

March 11

April 29

Family Swim at the Steinbach Aquatic

Centre from 6–9 pm.

Donations for a special project gratefully accepted.

Annual Alumni Brunch SBC Dining Room at 10:30 am.

Call 204-326-6451 to reserve. Tickets $10

Alumni Reunions Being Planned Class of ‘56 Contact Mrs. Bernie Plett, 5 Robin Place, Steinbach, MB R5G 2C8 • 204-346-9789 Class of ‘71 Contact Bill & Florence Thiessen 204-377-4464 or billthie@hsd.ca 50 PTH 12 N • Steinbach, MB • R5G 1T4 info@sbcollege.ca • www.sbcollege.ca

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in through the door (or, better said, onto the yard).

The task I disliked most was dealing with bills. Charging poor people for services I’ve always received free of charge in Canada was very unpleasant for me. The hospital does have a fund to help the poorest of the poor.

With that there was the experience of seeing and getting to know some realities of life in the Paraguayan interior when illness strikes. Did you know that a cow or a set of oxen is as good as a bank account? Or that it’s quite possible to transport a whole family of four or five people, baby included, on a motorbike?

Countless times a critically ill man or woman arrives at the hospital on the back of a pickup or cargo truck, having driven on super dusty or muddy roads to get to the hospital, sometimes after weeks of illness already. They are always hoping that somehow he or she would get better yet.

Renita Rempel (Prairie Grove) was a nurse Then, in a last desperate attempt to in Lucero clinic. She and her husband Gil find help, they arrive at the hospital door Rempel are involved in leadership training literally on the brink of death. Maybe and church planting in East Paraguay. A it’s because of a lack of economical nurse is being sought for Lucero Clinic. If resources, superstitions, or a distrust interested, contact Ken Zacharias at the of doctors and conventional medicine. EMC national office.

Those kinds of things were difficult to For February of The the Messenger see and much more so to understand.

Like issue all cultures Paraguayans Highlights of my time in the Lucero have a lot of beliefs and superstitions hospital were doing deliveries, the around health and, like all cultures with ultimate being an unexpected set of a high fear factor, they cling to them twins. Maybe tied for first or a close tenaciously. It’s a huge accomplishment second was the satisfaction of gaining to gain someone’s trust and be able to someone’s trust and being able to do teach them something that may well be Connect with college friends some teaching (wound care, nutrition, counter-culture. byDeveloping attending these events! newborn and post-partum care, breast friendships with my feeding).

Paraguayan was also a February 17 Indoorcolleagues Soccer Tournament Dalen 204-326-6451 highlight.Call I learned a lot from them, and grew and appreciate each one.

March 11 to love Family Swim at the Sorrowful moments mentioning Steinbach Aquaticneed

as well—children thatpm. died (my first Centre from 6–9 Follow Me Donations a special patient that diedforwas a three-monthproject gratefully Being accepted. old boy) and suicides. involved in A study booklet on examining our cases like these affected me in ways that April 29 Annual Alumni Brunch wider task as Christians, with a SBC Dining Room at

are hard to express concisely. striving for social justice.

10:30 am.

The experiences were difficult and Call intense, 204-326-6451

sometimes butto it was also reserve. $10 in the crisis a privilege to Tickets be there moments and Being to speak words of love, Alumni Reunions Planned peace, forgiveness, hope and comfort. I Class of ‘56 thank God for the chance to do that, to Contact Mrs. Bernie Plett, 5 Robin Place, be his hands and feet, to serve, Steinbach, MBvoice, R5G 2C8 • 204-346-9789 to be stretched for his honour and Classand of ‘71 glory Lucero.Thiessen Contact Bill in & Florence 204-377-4464 or billthie@hsd.ca Renita Rempel

Coming Spring 2006!

50 PTH 12 N • Steinbach, MB • R5G 1T4 info@sbcollege.ca • www.sbcollege.ca

THE MESSENGER

Philippines

Honest Hands students take ALS test On February 26 we took six of the Honest Hands students for the Alternative Learning Systems test. Three were taking the elementary level test and three the high school level test. The test is designed to help school drop outs return to the Filipino school system.

Everything had seemed a bit easy to this point of preparation and registration for the test, so I wasn’t all that surprised how the day unfolded. We drove about an hour to the provincial capital and noticed a scrawled message on the door of the school that the test had been moved to a completely different town.

Thankfully we had about 45 minutes,

and vehicle speed increased dramatically as we headed to Das Marinas.

Eventually we found the right school and got our guys into the right line up to get their room assignment. There were hundreds of teenagers milling around looking for the right room to take the test, as many of the rooms had new, hastily prepared numbers stuck over permanent numbers. It was confusing, to say the least.

Finally I thought everyone was settled into the right spot and writing the test.

Then a houseparent (and tutorial teacher) came walking rapidly towards me to let me know that a student was

Martens returning to Morocco Albert Martens is heading back to Morocco, North Africa, to be challenged by the Marathon des Sables during April 7 to 17. The marathon is the world’s toughest long distance foot race: 240 to 250 kms in the April heat (up to 50 degrees C) of the Sahara Desert.

Martens will be accompanied by Matthieu Dehaene, a former student at Black Forest Academy (a school in Germany where Albert worked) and a pilot.

Martens, a member of Steinbach EMC, has run 34 full marathons, eight ultramarathons, run across two countries,

skied seven World Loppet cross-country ski races, and completed the Badwater Ultramarathon in 2004. He has competed in Marathon des Sables twice previously, completing it once.

Martens is running to raise funds and awareness for Dr. Wim and Marleen Munting, medical missionaries serving a poor area of Nigeria. They have limited equipment, their work is often dangerous, and AIDS is common in the region.

Martens is an EMC associate missionary, working with Athletes in Action.

From information

by Albert Martens

Albert Martens and Matthieu Dehaene in the 2004 Badwater marathon.

March 8, 2006

missing his crucial registration slip. We searched through file folders, the vehicle, and then I took off speeding home for Honest Hands. Along the way I was just feeling sick, thinking that this young man would not be able to take the test and would have to wait another year.

I called Lisa and woke her up (it was still only 6:45 a.m. or so) and she ran off to search at Honest Hands. We never did find the paper, but the officials were nice enough to let him take the test anyways, as they had the other half of his registration form with his ID photo.

There was lots of confusion; the time allowed for the test had dropped from the previously stated four hours to 2.5 for elementary and 3.5 hours for the high school tests. I was praying that our guys would be able to adjust to the new deadlines and think clearly.

Three young men took the elementary level test. If they pass they can enroll in high school this June. All said it was quite easy. So that was a big relief. The high school test was significantly harder. If these guys pass they have a high school diploma and can enroll in college.

Two of the students were not able to take the test in the morning because the school ran out of materials, so I spent the day in a hot parking lot reading, waiting and praying for the guys. Our students said they were praying fervently as they walked up the steps to take the big test, and that God was with them.

The test results should be released in April or May. Thanks for your prayers as we continue to educate and disciple former street boys and school drop outs.

Carl Loewen

Carl and Lisa Loewen (Pleasant Valley) work with Action International in the Philippines, serving in a discipleship ministry called Helping Hands.

a womanʼs journey of faith Betty Koop

Corinth: Reading the Bible with your feet

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e were filled with anticipation as we climbed first for the public baths. He may even have had a aboard our tour bus in Athens to travel to few extra coins, so he could soak in one of the private ancient Corinth to “read the Bible with our compartments that lined the side of the pool. feet,” as one guide put it. This was the first As we explored the pool area and peered into the archeological site that we would explore on this trip. dark little private pools, we could hear water running.

The ride on the comfortable, air-conditioned bus Next door, our feet explored the ruins of stone took over an hour. As I watched the semi-arid landscape restrooms. The used water from the pools flowed down unfold, dotted by many olive groves, pistachio trees a trough under the projecting stone seats with holes and beautifully blooming oleanders, I wondered if the carved into them. Today that would be called good reApostle Paul had walked this stretch in one day. use of resources.

With his desire to communicate the gospel as he Later we viewed some artifacts that confirmed the went, it probably took him several days as he stopped presence of a synagogue in ancient Corinth. We know to share when opportunity arose. The Bible simply that Paul first went to the synagogue to share the Good states: “Paul left Athens and went to Corinth.” Maybe he News, but when the Jews opposed him and became stopped at a roadside inn and ate some goat souvlaki as abusive, Paul declared, “From now on I will go to the we were invited to do. Most of us opted for pork instead. Gentiles” (Acts 18).

As we approached ancient Corinth, our first He probably didn’t spend as much time gazing at the impression was of monolithic columns holding up a temple of Apollo, as we did. Those massive columns had few equally massive crosspieces, the ruins of a stood for thousands of years How could people be so temple to the god Apollo. This dwarfed all the when we saw them! How could fascinating ruins around it. people be so devoted to a god devoted to a god made of It really made the Bible come to life as I made of stone as to spend stone as to spend fortunes pictured Paul walking on The Way, the ancient fortunes in time and labour stone-paved street leading down to the docks. to put up such a magnificent in time and labour to put up Because of the thick layer of fine dust on the such a magnificent structure? structure? roads, he would have been hot and covered It was saddening to with dirt after his long walk. Maybe he headed us, and probably even more so to the Apostle Paul, to realize how desperate they must have been to earn the god’s approval. Paul preached fearlessly and tirelessly, and “many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.” Did they use the public baths we had just visited, or did they practice pouring in the privacy of their homes?

We do not build magnificent man-made temples to our great God, but we are His temples. The fruit of our lives in Christ, as others come to know Him because of our faithfulness, may not only be preserved for thousands of years but actually for all eternity. And He indwells His temples to help us live faithfully. It is not our stressing and straining that brings about fruit, but rather His power that dwells within us.

T What a challenge and what a consolation! M 10

THE MESSENGER

with our churches

Short-term workers tell of efforts

Riverton, Man.: As parents there is a burning desire to see your children return home after long absences, particularly after they have been put to the test physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Evonne Plett and Hillary Timmons have arrived safe and sound, and on January 29 gave us a glimpse into what was their life during short-term mission exposures.

Evonne’s passion lies with developing countries. She has returned from a three and a half month term in Cambodia with Action International and is pursuing studies in international development.

Evonne shared with us her experiences of living, working, and playing with people of Shalom Church. Check out Hebrews 10:19– 39; she informs us that the people at this mission truly live by these verses, having a sincere passion for the Word of God. The beauty salon of the local pastor’s wife pays for church functions and also provides a medium in which the gospel can be shared through the teaching of English, which is what Evonne was involved in.

The church, being only three years old, boasts many ministries: English classes and clubs (some of which have had to be curtailed because of gang threats), sports teams, Bible studies and evangelism classes, prayer meetings and times of fasting, volunteer support groups (such as small business loans, food and clothing distribution), 13 outreach churches.

It appears the church here is able to relater to Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 2 about Christian service. Paul wrote, “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (verse 3).

After a year in Mbale, Uganda, Hillary exudes a love for the children of Rainbow Nursery School. Children here come from Muslim, Hindu, and Christian families.

She soon observed that the family unit played an important role in the lives of people she met.

Many personal ministry opportunities became apparent as she lived in the local pastor’s home. Building relationships with coworkers and parents she was assisting in teaching became an integral part of her year. She tells of the struggles of individuals who have accepted the Christian faith and their ability to minister to their Muslim families.

Living in a culture foreign to our own brings with it an occasional need

March 8, 2006

for retreat. This was achieved through conferences held at Jinja, the source of the Nile; a safari to Wurcheson Falls; and getaways to the AIM guesthouse in Kampala. Even something as simple as a visit to the Oasis of Life restaurant was enough to give her stomach and soul a rest.

Closer to home, I’d like to share just a bit about our camp that is sponsored by four of our Interlake churches (Morweena, Riverton, Mennville, and Arborg Christian Fellowship). The annual meeting of Beaver Creek Bible Camp was hosted by our church on February 12. Following a meal surrounded by a Valentine’s Day theme, we were encouraged through a time of praise and worship led by a group of young adults. We heard how the camp has been blessed this past year through those willing to give. Church support has been stable and we also experienced an increase in public support.

There were 250 campers this year, which included the largest leadership development program to date as well as a special needs program capably led

by Ellana Friesen. As was quoted by an observer, “Something special is going on here.”

Through the camp staff reports, we were encouraged that special friendships have been made among staff as well as with campers. There is excitement within the young adults in what is happening at camp. We are aware that many children are here to remove them from the family scene for a while. The children are loved and accepted, regardless of their interest or disinterest in what is going on around them. As one counselor said, “God and Satan are both very real at camp. The battle is real and exciting.”

The board is currently needing to fill the positions of director and vice director.

Brian Dyck, chairman of the board, stated that camp gives the opportunity not only to share the light of the gospel, but also the opportunity to grow as brothers and sisters through the work given us to do.

Serving the camp creates a bond between those involved.

Follow your heart. If God calls, allow Him to take you where He can use your gifts to His honour and glory. “To this end I also labour, striving according to His working which works in me mightily” (Colossians 1:29).

Carol Kornelsen

Hillary Timmons and Evonne Plett display attire from Uganda and Cambodia (respectively).

Student Appreciation Supper

For post-secondary students attending  Canadian Mennonite University  Providence College and Seminary  Red River College  Steinbach Bible College  University of Manitoba  University of Winnipeg Tuesday, March 21, 2006 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Fort Garry EMC, 602 Pasadena Ave., Winnipeg, Man. Come for an evening of games, singing, an inspirational talk, and supper—free food! No need to RSVP. Call Gerald Reimer for more information at 204-326-6401.

11

Much is new at Hillside Buffalo Head Prairie, Alta.: Greetings from Hillside! We still consider ourselves a new church, despite our second anniversary.

With the new year, a new church is dealing with babies (always new), new faces, and people trying new positions in the church.

On New Year’s Day we had an optimistic report by Russell Friesen on The Church in 2006. Will we stay in our comfort zone and get by, or will we dare to be obedient, step beyond, and be blessed for it.

At Bible study we discussed the pros and cons of big churches and small churches. We came to the conclusion that the musical worship is usually better with a larger congregation, but it did not compare to the fellowship, closeness, and the many lunch invitations that happen in a smaller church body.

Considering the size of our congregation, we have a large number of youth, especially when there is a potluck happening. For young adults out there

who are looking for—you know—good food, we have a number of people in our midst who are also looking. Our next potluck will be at Easter and you can call me for billeting.

Here is an outline of some main events of the church. The two years between the beginning and the first service consisted of clearing the land. We logged it and rock picked it (by machine and hand). We also had lots of meetings doing the floor plans and all the legal stuff.

Beginning: 2001 Basement dug: March 31, 2003 First worship service: August 3, 2003 (no power due to a windstorm) Church dedication: September 28, 2003 Baptism and transfers: March 7, 2004 Membership reception: September 12, 2004 Number of members: 30 Average attendance on Sundays: 60 Number of babies born: 6 Michelle Wiebe (Hillside) and Wilma

Wiebe (from the nearby Bergthaler Mennonite Church) are stepping out of their comfort zone and going to South Africa for three months. They will be helping EMC missionaries Melvin and Kari Peters where needed. We are all excited for what God has in store for them.

What does God have in store for all of us as individuals or as a new, growing church? I only know that if we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus our burdens will be light and our joy made complete. If we sin and fall there is forgiveness, and our loving Lord and loving friends will pick us up and help us go forward.

Suzi Friesen

Hillside church property

Members were received at Hillside Christian Fellowship on March 7 and on September 12, 2004.

Bill and Rosalie are new deacon couple at Burns Lake Burns Lake, B.C.: Another deacon couple installation ceremony took place on February 12, 2006, at the Island Gospel Fellowship church. Bill and Rosalie Bueckert are the newly-elected deacon couple. Shown with the new deacon couple (centre) are deacon couple Justine and Elmer Klassen (left and back), board chairman Cliff Manning (behind them), and our pastoral couple Doris and Henry Plett.

Cole Clifford

1

Attention children’s ministry coordinators!

Steinbach EMC has several VBS kits available: Sonlight Island Treasures of the Nile Jesus to the Rescue Faith Mountain Lava, Lava Island Road Rally Each kit contains leader’s manuals, student worksheets, craft samples, recruitment and training videos, and more.

For information call Anna Plett at 204-326-6572.

THE MESSENGER

EASP renamed Winnipeg Centre for Ministry Studies Evangelical Anabaptist Seminary Program, a seminary-level education program in Winnipeg, Man., has changed its name to Winnipeg Centre for Ministry Studies effective February 1. A celebratory luncheon will be held in Founders Hall on Canadian Mennonite University campus, March 23 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Pierre Gilbert, the Centre’s program coordinator, is excited about the possibilities this change brings. “The name change indicates an emphasis not only on delivery of seminary courses, but a whole range of professional formation, including workshops, seminars and pastoral ministry roundtables,” he says.

The name also provides a clearer picture of the Centre’s focus on professional training in the Winnipeg area, and of its openness to serve the broader Christian community.

However, Gilbert is quick to point out that an evangelical/Anabaptist theology will remain the Centre’s theological core.

The Centre came about through the initiative of MB Biblical Seminary, as a way to offer Anabaptist theological education in mid-western Canada.

Today it has become an inter-Mennonite effort supported by five conferences and three other schools, including the Mennonite Church of Manitoba,

Church Planting in Canada

Pre-registration Preferred

B I B L E

C O L L E G E

Manitoba Conference of Mennonite Brethren, EMC, EMMC, Chortitzer Mennonite Conference, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, CMU, and SBC. right here WCMS started providing courses on right now the campus of CMU in the fall of 2002.

In the past three years the number of courses offered has jumped from five to 10 per year, with opportunity for pastors and lay people to receive a Certificate in Christian Ministry.

It’s the hope and vision of the Centre to offer a Master of Arts degree in Christian Ministry in the next two to three years. Currently the 30 unit certificate can be transferred into a Come to Discovery Days degree program at any Associated March 29-30 Theological School, including MBBS’s Fresno or Langley campuses or call Michelle for details AMBS. To attend the luncheon, please reply 1.800.230.8478 to Anne Friesen at 204-885-2565, extenwww.sbcollege.ca sion 366. Current students, alumni, faculty members, media and conference and institutional representatives are especially This coming July, SBC is sponsoring the English Language welcome.

Institute in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Since 1999 the institute has WCMS

SBC Leadership Conference 2006

Speaker: Ewald Unruh, Director of Leadership Development and Evangelism Canada for the MB Conference Date:

March 24-25, 2006

Time:

Friday, 1 pm to Saturday 3 pm

Place:

SBC Chapel

Cost:

$40 by March 15 / $50 after March 15

For more information or to register— call Christal 204-326-6451 or 1-800-230-8478 visit our website www.sbcollege.ca

March 8, 006

S T E I N B A C H

SBC sponsors English institute in Ukraine

been sponsored by Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church in Steinbach under the direction of Len Loeppky. With Len moving on to other ministries, SBC is pleased to work with him in this transition year.

The English Language Institute recruits annually about 15 individuals from Canada to teach English to postsecondary students and professionals. The group going consists mostly of TESOL teachers and assistants, but also musicians and Bible teachers.

The Institute has personnel in Ukraine who recruit and test students and make all other local arrangements for the classes. The project provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce God to 150 students who have for many years been taught to ignore God. The daily chapels, classes and casual interactions are always enriching and rewarding for anyone who goes.

In previous years some staff who have family history in Ukraine have remained in the country to visit and tour after the institute is done.

Anyone interested in joining this group for a wonderful month of ministry should contact Don Thiessen at SBC (204326-6451; dthiessen@sbcollege.mb.ca) or Len Loeppky (204326-2613; aloeppky@mts.net).

SBC

1

JOHN W. DYCK 1928–2005

John W. Dyck, beloved husband of Margaret Dyck, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, April 20, 2005, at the Cypress Regional Hospital, Swift Current, Sask., at the age of 76.

John’s memory will be forever cherished and he will be deeply missed by his wife, Margaret, of 52 years; his children, Bill (Eileen) Dyck, Leslie and Leon; Edith (Lyle) Downey, step-grandchildren Kelli, Brett, and Jarrett; John (Jennifer) Dyck, Kallie, Graham and Trenton; Pauline (Steven) Sawatsky, Evelyn, Mitchell, and Clayton; Carolyn (Jonathon) Pawelko, Alexander and Kathryn.

He is also survived by his brothers, Jake (Katie) Dyck, Ben (Nellie) Dyck,

BETTY DYCK KROEKER 1923–2004

Saturday, November 6, 2004, Mom changed her residence and peacefully left this earth for her new heavenly home to be with her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

She is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband Walter; her children and their families: Bruce (Elma), grandchildren Cari (Keith Brown) and Dwayne, great-granddaughter Katelyn; Amelie (Rod) Thiessen, grandchildren Jacquie (Joe Engbrecht), Derek and Nicole; Bob (special friend Sherry), grandson Mike; Lorne (Carol), grandchildren Christopher and Caitlan; Marlene (Peter)

14

Peter (Clara) Dyck; his sisters, Tina (John) Krahn, Marie Carson, Margaret Dyck; and by many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Jacob and Maria Dyck; a two-yearold sister Maria; and by a stillborn granddaughter, Nicole Sawatsky.

John was born on the farm in Neuhoffnung, Sask., on May 10, 1928. He was baptized in the Sommerfeld Church in his early 20s. John married Margaret Froese on November 9, 1952, in Rosenhof, Sask. They began their life together farming in Burnham, Sask. In 1959 they moved to Rosenhof, where they lived and farmed until the move to Swift Current on November 25, 2004.

John and Margaret started attending Wymark EMC after the revival of 1958, and he continued attending and serving as an active member until his death. He served as a church treasurer for more than 15 years.

His commitment to the community was evident in his 23-year tenure as councillor for the RM of Coulee #136. His interest in reading resulted in him volunteering to sit as a member on the local Swift Current library board. His concern for world missions was clearly displayed in his work, together with Margaret, within

the local Mennonite Central Committee.

They spent many years organizing relief sales and fundraisers. He was dedicated, faithful, and consistent in his service to the community.

John’s first and foremost love was farming; checking the crops regularly was a highlight of a summer day. He wholeheartedly supported Margaret with her Farmer’s Market business. He enjoyed reading historical, biographical, and political books. A winter pastime was watching sports on TV. John will be fondly remembered for his love and faithfulness to God, his wife, his family and friends.

The funeral service for John was held April 24, 2005, at Bridgeway Community Church, Swift Current, Sask. Officiating was Rev. Jake Enns.

Honourary pallbearers were members of the RM of Coulee #136 Council: Dean Thomson, Neil Guenther, Doug Smith, BJ Scheirlinck, Greg Targerson, and Harold Wiebe. Pallbearers were Leon Dyck, Brett Downey, Thomas Dyck, Jeff Dyck, Tim Krahn, and Wes Froese.

Donations were welcome to Child Evangelism Fellowship or MCC. Interment was at Wymark EMC Cemetery.

His Family

Rempel, grandchildren Megan, Sydney and Dayna; and Kelly (Carla), grandchildren Mikayla, Taylor and Riley. She will also be dearly missed by her siblings: Katherine, Annie (John), Gertie, Pete (Lottie), Jake (Rose), Lillian (Lorne), sister-in-law Erna, and many nieces and nephews.

Mom was predeceased by her first husband Herman in 1999, and by two sisters, Agnes and Mary.

Born March 13, 1923, to David and Elizabeth Klassen, Mom grew up in the Ekron area. She was baptized at 17 years of age in Kleefeld, Man. Places of employment included housekeeping in Winnipeg, Blumenort Co-op, Janz Hatchery and Steinbach Bakery. After marrying Dad in 1957, homemaking became her full-time job. Mom was an incredibly hard worker, shown over the years through her yard, her pantry, and her home. She had many creative talents and took great pride in her garden, flowers, canning, crafts and handiwork.

She also took pride in her children and, because of her love for music, her children could never sing enough or play their instruments enough for her. Because of Mom’s encouragement, we were taught to be available and love working in the church with our music, teaching, or whatever abilities we had. Practicing for

church came even before doing dishes!

Mom was also noted for her generosity, her love to entertain, her sense of humour and for getting slightly wild if she was losing a card game. She overcame many obstacles in her life and showed us what a servant’s heart is like, unselfishly and lovingly always putting others before herself. Mom was a woman of prayer and her devotional time with God every morning was a priority. She stood on God’s Word and trusted Him to come through for her.

Woodhaven Manor was Mom’s home for the last seven years. She found love again and married Walter in 2002. Walter brought much joy to Mom and was faithfully at her side right until she took her last breath.

Viewing took place at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Wednesday, November 10, at 7 p.m., with a devotional at 7:30 p.m. The funeral service was held at the Evangelical Mennonite Church, 422 Main St., Steinbach, Thursday, November 11 at 2 p.m. Interment followed at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach.

Arrangements entrusted to Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Dr., Steinbach, Man. Her Family

THE MESSENGER

shoulder tapping EMC Missions seeks missionaries for Mexico and Paraguay.

In both countries, church planters are needed to work alongside national church leaders and missionaries.

In Mexico, both English- and German-speaking teachers are need for elementary schools in German communities. A pastor-caregiver is needed for Hillside Church in May 2006. German is required. In Paraguay, a nurse is required for Lucero Clinic in East Paraguay.

Contact Ken Zacharias, EMC foreign secretary, at 204-326-6401 or emcken@mts.net.

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.

Kleefeld EMC, a church of about 300 members in Kleefeld, Man., is seeking an associate pastor. The primary focus would be to work with the youth program in a discipling and mentoring capacity, involving youth and youth workers. This position would also include one other major involvement— depending on the applicant’s giftedness—such as Christian Education resource, music ministry, etc. We are looking for a leader to join us in catching the vision and excitement of a growing church community. Send resumes to Ron Harder, Box 4, Kleefeld, MB R0A 0V0; e-mail kemc@mts.net; phone 204-377-4248.

Fish Creek Christian Fellowship (EMC) seeks a full-time pastor, with position open May 2006.

Experience and education expected are flexible.

The church, started in south Calgary in 1998, is currently meeting in a rural setting outside of Calgary; it hopes to return to Calgary shortly.

Fish Creek has about 50 people attending. Contact Garry Kornelsen, board chair, at 403-281-3747; or 55 Woodford Cres., SW, Calgary AB T2W 4C6; email: gskornelsen@shaw.ca.

Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship (EMC) in northcentral British Columbia seeks a half-time associate pastor of youth with a love for God and heart for youth. The leader will give mature leadership, work with church in moulding youth, guide them into becoming faithful followers of Jesus Christ, and work within the EMC statement of faith. Our Sunday morning attendance is 100. Our youth group (without a youth pastor for some time) is rebuilding, currently 12 to 20 people, with an average age of 14.

There is potential for growth. Contact VCF, Box 377, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0; phone 250-567-9198; fax 250-567-2064; vcfemc@telus.net.

MCC Canada seeks a full-time salaried International Visitor Exchange Program (IVEP) Canada Coordinator (one-year maternity leave position beginning May 15, 2006). The Canada Coordinator administers IVEP in Canada. IVEP brings 65 international adults (ages 19–30) to North America for one year. Previous experience with young adults of different nationalities, and effective communication and administrative skills are required.

All MCC workers are expected to exhibit a commitment to a personal Christian faith and discipleship, active church membership, and nonviolent peacemaking.

Contact: Marsha Jones, phone: 204-261-6381, e-mail: mgj@mennonitecc.ca, View job description

March 8, 2006

on the web at www.mcc.org. Applications will be accepted until March 20, 2006.

Taber EMC in southern Alberta seeks a senior pastoral couple to start September 2006, due to a retirement. The church is bilingual in Low German and English, and has an average attendance of 125 people. Applicants should contact Nick Enns, 403223-3386 (cell 634-0020); or Peter Wall, 403-382-9184 (cell 382-9184).

Briercrest Family of Schools seeks a vicepresident of advancement, starting August 1, 2006. This VP will lead the advancement division, which exists to enable the educational ministry of Briercrest to thrive by building strategic relationships that result in friends, funds, and freshmen for the institution and providing valuable educational support services.

Needed: Exemplary Christian character and reputation; a keen interest in Briercrest’s mission, significant experience in public relations, marketing, and/or public relations; five years of management experience overseeing projects and multiple employees; master’s degree (doctorate preferred); and ability to see the big picture, set objectives, and encourage the development and accomplishment of strategic initiatives.

Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three referees to Bob Krueger, director of HR, Briercrest Family of Schools, Caronport, SK S0H 0S0; e-mail hr@ briercrest.ca.

Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Briercrest Family of Schools is a private, confessional post-secondary institution in the evangelical Protestant tradition. All employees sign a doctrinal statement and code of conduct. Visit the web site, www.briercrest.ca, for more information.

Crestview Fellowship (EMC) seeks a part-time youth director with a strong personal spiritual foundation who is able to build strong relationships with youth.

Must have the ability to work alongside a team of youth sponsors in discipling youth, and be creative and energetic in planning regular Bible studies and organizing fundraisers. Contact Pastor Vern Knutson at 204-837-9490. Resumes can be forwarded by email to finkswpg@mts.net or by mail to Crestview Fellowship, c/o Christine Fink, 271 Hamilton Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2Y 0H3.

Mennonite Disaster Service is expanding its binational staff because of increased need following the Gulf Coast hurricanes of 2005. All positions are located in Akron, Pennsylvania. These staff report directly to the executive director: Communications, to develop and administer a comprehensive communications plan to share the MDS message with the constituency and stakeholder communities as well as general public, interpreting MDS philosophy/vision and promoting strong support; Field operations, to manage field operations and to assure effective and efficient team effort in field relationships and activities in serving MDS “customers/clients” within its philosophy and resource parameters; Finance and accounting, to oversee the financial management, reporting and controller functions, assuring integrity in all financial aspects of MDS; Human resources, to assure prompt provision of qualified staff for all leadership positions and

long-term volunteer positions and program needs and to enhance effective teamwork throughout the organization.

Inquire to MDS Human Resources, Attention: Arleta Martin, 1018 Main Street, Akron, PA 17501; e-mail: jobs@mds.mennonite.net; phone: 717859-2210, Fax: 717-859-4910; http://www.mds. mennonite.net.

Inner City Youth Alive, a Christian ministry in the North End of Winnipeg, Man., seeks a workshop program director (full-time, permanent with support raising required). Fax resume to 204-582-4729; mail to ICYA, 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W 1V7; or e-mail icya@mts.net. Pastoral reference required.

Kenosee Lake Bible Camp, a CSSM camp located in beautiful Moose Mountain Provincial Park in southeast Saskatchewan, seeks a facility manager (April to September). Manager oversees operation and maintenance of facilities, vehicles and equipment—including buildings, grounds, swimming pool, washrooms and sewer, water, mechanical and electrical functions.

KLBC also seeks a camp secretary (May to September) to oversee clerical duties, the tuck shop, and guest hospitality.

Accommodation is provided at camp during employment period, if required. Applications accepted until March 18, 2006. Forward your resumes to Marlon Klassen, 214 Doiron Road N, Regina, SK S4Y 1G4; e-mail: marlon.klassen@ sasktel.net; phone Marlon Klassen (board secetary) at 306-924-0129 or Terry Kerr (board chairman) at 306-848-0393.

La Crete Christian Fellowship in La Crete, Alberta, seeks a youth pastor for a new position as part of our pastoral team. LCCF is a forward-looking church of about 400 regular attendees. The youth pastor will have a primary role in developing programs and working closely with youth and youth leaders.

LCCF’s service to God is based on the core values of a commitment to teaching God’s Word and outreach to the community.

Send a resume with references to lccfc@telus.net or LCCFC, Box 385, La Crete, AB T0H 2H0 Attention: Pastor Frank Winsor.

Mennville Church (EMC) seeks a part- or full-time pastor. Experience and education expectations are flexible. Mennville Church is a congregation of about 100, located in the Interlake area of Manitoba and close to Hecla Island, in a predominantly agricultural area. Contact Wes Barkman at 204378-2778 (wbbarkmn@mts.net) or Roland Friesen at 204-378-2907 (rfriesen@riv.mb.ca). Conference pastor David Thiessen can also be contacted at the EMC national office (204-326-6401).

Are you looking for a Christian service opportunity in North America? Would you like to hone your skills or learn some new ones? Mennonite Central Committee is looking for people to work at its main office in Akron, Pennsylvania. We have immediate needs for a receptionist, a maintenance worker and administrative assistants, and upcoming needs for truck drivers, canners and computer programmers.

Most positions are for two years, but some are available for one year. Contact your local MCC office at 888-6226337 for information on these and other opportunities, or visit MCC’s Web site at www.mcc.org.

15

stewardship today Edwin Friesen

On assignment to seek kindness

T

his past December I attended a stewardship conference. At the end of one of the sessions, the speaker challenged the audience to become more alert to small acts of kindness and generosity that occurred in everyday life.

She reminded us that often these acts of kindness come at unexpected times from unexpected people.

Being in a strange city, I wondered where I might go and how long I would have to search before I found some kind soul in action.

I decided to go to my room before hitting the streets in search of a reportable act of kindness. I crossed the lobby, passed the bar and then as I reached to press the elevator up button, it happened.

All the papers I had tucked under my arm fell, scattering like little paper airplanes.

How foolish not to have stuffed them into my go-tomeeting satchel! Before I had collected my thoughts, the bartender, who had obviously observed my mishap from across the hall, was on her knees on the cold marble floor gathering up my papers, treating me like an honoured guest. I felt a bit foolish.

Papers in hand, I made my way into the elevator and was on my way up to the seventh floor when it hit me.

This was the random act of kindness I had been asked to look for—small, spontaneous, and coming from an unexpected person. This was like a made-for-theassignment kind of act; an unexpected act of kindness, at an unexpected time, at an unexpected place by an unexpected person. Upon reflection, I couldn’t recall seeing her in any of the stewardship sessions. Probably too busy.

I heard of a similar event a few days later. A couple

from our church was out shopping and running errands.

Running late (what else is new?), they decided to take a breather and have lunch at a nearby restaurant.

After enjoying their meal, they approached the cashier to pay the bill. “Your bill is paid,” said the host.

Someone had paid it for them—a stranger who said they didn’t know each other but who simply wanted to put a smile on someone’s face.

The stranger was now long gone and, no, the host had no idea who their benefactor had been.

Spontaneous acts of generosity from unexpected persons extended to undeserving people.

Whatever is this world coming to? I don’t know about you, but I like what I see. It reminds me of the stories of Jesus.

It seemed that wherever Jesus went he received and lavished spontaneous acts of kindness. Remember the unexpected gift of perfume (Mark 14)? The gift of money (Luke 8:1–3)? The gift of water (John 4)? Remember the ten lepers who were healed (Luke 17:11–19)? The children Jesus singled out for a special blessing (Mark 10:13–16)? Healing the ear of a servant of the high priest, the one the apostle Peter had sliced off with a sword (Luke 22:49–51)?

Maybe it’s time we all went out on assignment to look for acts of kindness and generosity. And while we’re at T it, maybe we could do a few ourselves. M

“Your bill is paid!”

PAGE 16

For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office.

Abbotsford – Dave Kroeker, 1-888-212-8608; Calgary – Gary Sawatzky, 1-877-717-0708; Niagara – Darren PriesKlassen, 1-888-212-8731; Kitchener – Mike Strathdee, 1-888212-7759; Winnipeg – Edwin Friesen, 1-800-772-3257.

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017 6 PAP Registration # 14