The Messenger Vol. 44 No. 16 September 20, 2006

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 44 NUMBER 16 SEPTEMBER 20, 2006

A history and a heart

for reaching out

pp. 16–18

The

Messenger

Closer in what way?

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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 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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.

Views and opinions of 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 EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba.

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

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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.

Mailing information: Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: 440 Main Street Steinbach, Manitoba R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401 Fax: 204-326-1613 E-mail: emcmessenger@mts.net or emcterry@mts.net On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 18 – October 18 (copy due October 6)

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editorials ometimes leaders say they feel closer to nearby non-EMC churches and leaders than they do to the conference.

Certainly, pastors know their area’s local needs and share that concern with other nearby leaders and churches. It’s

All pastors and congregations are called to relate locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. normal to have local connections. It would be abnormal for parts of Christ’s Church to not work together locally; this would project a fragmentation based on denominational lines that Christ never drew. Christians of all stripes are immeasurably enriched through contact with other believers. That’s part of the communion of saints at work.

The mistake is perhaps in thinking we have to choose one connection (local or denominational) over another.

All pastors and congregations are called to relate locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

The EMC is a smaller denomination spread over five provinces, with workers in dozens of countries around the world. We

strive to connect in many ways: Through our common ministries and institutions, through regional and national meetings, through your support staff (national office workers) and the services provided, and through this and other publications.

There are opportunities to serve regionally and nationally. More people are welcome on boards and committees.

These boards and committees shape how we are connected to each other.

If the EMC is far from perfect (and we are), it’s a quality shared with other denominations and local churches.

There’s no magic in how to feel connected. There’s an old saying: fact, faith, then feeling. By our histories as EMC congregations, it’s a fact we are connected.

What binds us together is our Christian faith, shown in our life together. Our feelings come later.

Many pastors have counseled struggling believers to focus on fact, then faith and, finally, feelings will come. Pastors would say that to place feelings first is a sign of immaturity.

Perhaps some leaders need to consider their advice when they assess how close T they actually are to the EMC. M Terry M. Smith

Education more than moralism

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aith in Christ is more than moralism.

Moralism is religious life reduced to moral practice, rules or ethics.

Douglas John Hall, a Canadian minister and theologian, writes of his growing up: “Too many of our village saints were moralistic, self-righteous, unforgiving human beings. It was not pleasant to be with them.” Having my roots in the same denomination and being raised in a rural community, I have pondered how moralism without grace shaped my family’s history.

U.S. Methodist minister William Willimon says, “Many so-called children’s sermons are neither sermons nor are they for children. They are usually petty, unscriptural, moralistic object lessons which children find difficult to follow

because they cannot make the connection between the object and the lesson.

“The children’s sermon is often for the parents—the preacher telling the children what Mommy and Daddy believe the children ought to hear.” Substitute Children’s Story or Children’s Feature and the comment would likely fit some EMC churches.

Some parents send children to Sunday school to give them a moral education; that’s a way to start connecting with a church, but a weak place to end. Whether for parent or child, a moral education without an understanding of grace can bestow a burden that is far from the relationship Jesus invites us to enter T (Matthew 11:28–30). M Terry M. Smith THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

letter

coming events

Emergent church issues remain I have read with interest the responses to my article on the Emerging Church [April 5] and appreciate the willingness to openly discuss this topic. The vigour of the responses to my article (both pro and con) clearly shows that postmodernism and the emergent church are very real issues in our conference.

Many of the writers who criticized my submission claimed that I have misrepresented the views of emergent leaders such as Brian McLaren and Rob Bell and demolished a straw man. However, one of the key tenets of postmodernism is that the point of reading a text is not to discern the author’s original intent but rather to come up with our own understanding of what the text means to us. Thus, it is interesting to see letter writers speak so positively about postmodernism and yet critique me in such a modernistic fashion.

Others responded to my article by noting that emerging church leaders have offered valid critiques of modernday evangelicalism. However, the fundamental question that needs to be addressed is not whether emerging church leaders make some true statements. Rather, the movement needs to be assessed based on its

Giving information 12th annual EMC Golf Classic $21,075.26 split between ICYA (Winnipeg) and Gethsemane Orphanage (Nicaragua) Convention giving 2006 $6,938.81 convention expenses $30,140.00 missions $1,230.00 SBC

$2,467.56 donated later without designation $40,776.37 total Thank you for giving!

Board of Trustees

overall fidelity to the teachings of Scripture.

In the writings of emerging church leaders several common points can be identified. Almost every emergent leader holds a weak view of Biblical authority, accepts some form of theistic evolution, undermines the doctrine of penal substitutionary atonement, advocates embracing Roman Catholic practices, and refuses to specify whether or not he believes in eternal punishment for unbelievers. These are not minor doctrinal issues but affect the very core of our identity as Christians.

This does not mean that the Christian church should make no effort to be relevant to a largely postmodern culture. In his speech to the Athenians (Acts 17), Paul quotes freely from Greek poets in order to make his message more comprehensible to them. However, Paul does not shy away from offering a critique of their worldview. He asserts that, contrary to their understanding, there is only one God who created the universe. He also backs up his claims with an objective truth statement—namely that Jesus was raised from the dead.

Thus, while it is appropriate for churches to adapt their styles in order to accommodate a changing culture it is not appropriate to allow a non-biblical world view to alter the gospel message that we give to the world. Again, Paul illustrates this distinction when he says that “to those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law)” (1 Corinthians 9:20).

The writings of emerging church leaders demonstrate that they have not simply adapted the gospel message in order to make it understandable to postmoderns. Rather, they have embraced postmodern philosophy as their own and allowed it to “repaint” their Christian faith.

For anyone interested, I have written a much longer academic piece on this same topic and will e-mail it to anyone who contacts me at mzwaagstra@shaw.ca.

Michael Zwaagstra Steinbach, Man.

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

September 29–30 A Good Life on God’s Good Earth: A Creation Care Conference Speakers: Gordon Zerbe, Peter Harris, Steven Bouma-Prediger, August Konkel Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 877-231-4570 October 4–6 Winnipeg Prophecy Conference Victoria Inn Winnipeg, Man. 204-853-7786 www.wpgpc.org October 5 New Direction Annual Dessert Fundraiser 620-167 Lombard Avenue Winnipeg, Man. 204-452-1826 October 13–15 TRU 2006: Train, Refresh, Unite EMC youth leaders’ retreat Speaker: Marv Penner Wilderness Edge Pinawa, Man. 204-326-6401 or emcger@mts.net October 20–21 War and the CO: Historical perspectives Weekend history conference Chair of Mennonite Studies University of Winnipeg Winnipeg, Man. 204-786-9391 October 28 Uncluttering our lives: The call to simplicity Region 8 Women’s Day Ridgewood EMC Giroux, Man. 204-326-2957 December 2–4 EMC Ministerial Retreat Speakers: John and Anne Neufeld Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre Pinawa, Man. 204-746-2702 or 204-746-8360 rfclife@gninc.ca

Stony Brook Fellowship

10 Anniversary Service th

Sunday, October 15, 2006 10:30 a.m.

Everyone welcome Fellowship lunch to follow Steinbach Bible College chapel Steinbach, Manitoba

h t i fa Rethinking Pacifis

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p shi e l cip dis

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e believe that Jesus the Carpenter, true God and true man, clearly taught his disciples not to kill. For the first 300 years every Christian dealing with this issue says Jesus said Christians should never kill other persons. For that reason, early Christians rejected abortion, capital punishment, and killing in war.

For much of the 300 years preceding Jesus’ birth, cruel foreign conquerors ruled Palestine. One popular political option of Jesus’ day was a movement of violent, devoutly religious Jewish nationalists who believed Messiah would come if the Jewish nation would rise up in armed rebellion.

A different way Jesus taught and lived a different way. He chose to fulfill Zechariah’s vision of a humble, peaceful Messiah riding on a donkey, not a war horse (Matthew 21:15, John 12:15, Zechariah 9:9–10). Jesus rebuked Peter’s attempt to defend him with the sword: “All who take up the sword will perish by the sword” (Matthew 26:52).

Matthew 5:38–48, of course, is the most important text in Jesus’ nonviolent teaching. To an oppressed people, Jesus gave the unprecedented command: “Love your enemies.”

Scholar Martin Hengel believes Jesus commanded this in conscious contrast to the Zealots. Jesus favoured a radically different approach.

Leviticus 19:18 says to love your neighbour as yourself. Scholar John Piper shows that in pre-Christian Jewish thought the neighbour was normally understood to be a fellow

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Israelite. The love had clear ethnic, religious limitations. A different attitude toward Gentiles was expected. Zealots said “whoever spills the blood of one of the godless is like one who offers a sacrifice” and the Qumran community taught “love all the sons of light…and…hate all the sons of darkness.”

Jesus’ way was different. Loving those who love you is relatively easy (Matthew 5:46)—even great sinners like tax collectors can do that. Neighbour love must extend beyond the people of Israel, beyond the new people of God. This text says what the parable of The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29–37) suggests: All people everywhere are neighbours to Jesus’ followers and therefore are to be actively loved. That includes enemies—even violent, oppressive, foreign conquerors!

Don’t weaken the command!

There have been many attempts to weaken its radical demand.

Martin Luther, with his two-kingdom analysis, restricted these verses to the personal sphere. He told Christians in their roles as public officials, “You do not have to ask Christ about your duties.” Exegetically, however, that seems highly questionable.

Commentator Edward Schweitzer says, “There is not the slightest hint of any realm where the disciple is not bound by the words of Jesus.”

The context demonstrates that Jesus intends the command to apply to the public sphere (5:39–41). When Jesus rejects “an eye for an eye,” he is transcending a basic legal principle (see Exodus 23:24). “If anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well” (5:40) also clearly speaks of how one should respond in the public arena of the judicial system.

“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles” (5:41) deals with how to respond to Roman rulers who demand forced labour. Revolutionaries urged Jews to refuse this. Jesus, on the other hand, condemns their violent, angry response, even to the Romans’ unjust demands.

Some resistance is allowed But is Jesus forbidding all forms of resistance to evil? It seems some forms of coercion are fully compatible with love and respect for the other person as a free moral agent, while others are not.

In the home with children, in the church in disciplining, and in the marketplace with economic boycotts, coercion can be applied which respects the other person’s freedom to say no and THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

sm rous world

Dr. Ron J. Sider

accept the consequences. When one engages in lethal violence, one cannot lovingly appeal to the other person as a free moral agent responsible to God to choose to repent and change.

Jesus’ own actions demonstrate he did not intend to forbid all forms of violence. He constantly opposed evil persons in a forthright, vigorous fashion. He unleashed a blistering attack on Pharisees (Matthew 23:13– 33). Nor was Jesus nonresistant when he cleansed the temple.

Nor did Jesus silently submit to aggression at his trial when a soldier unjustly struck him on the cheek (John 18:19–24). Instead of turning the other cheek, he protested. Apparently Jesus thought that protesting police brutality or engaging in civil disobedience in a nonviolent fashion was consistent with not to resist one who is evil.

What, then, does Matthew 5:39 mean? It means we can’t place an evil person in the category of enemy, we should respond according to the needs of the offending person, continue to love (because love does not depend on reciprocity), and act in these ways even at great personal cost. Jesus rejected all retaliation.

I do not believe God has a double ethic, a higher ethic for especially devout folk and a lower ethic for the masses. I do not believe that God intends Christians to wait until the millennium to obey the Sermon on the Mount. Nor do I believe that Christ urges the individual Christian in a personal role to love enemies, but then authorizes that same person as a public official to kill them.

In pre-Christian Jewish thought the neighbour was normally understood to be a fellow Israelite.

The love had clear ethnic, religious limitations.

Jesus’ way was different: All people everywhere are neighbours to Jesus’ followers and therefore are to be actively loved.

That includes enemies— even violent, oppressive, foreign conquerors!

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

The 20th century has been the most violent in human history, yet there have been amazing successes of non-violence.

Without much training or resources, nonviolence has changed history. on the cross was an expiation (Romans 5:18). He who knew no sin was made sin for us on the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Jesus’ vicarious death for sinful enemies of God leads to nonviolence. It is precisely because the One hanging limp on the middle cross was the Word who became flesh that we are absolutely sure that a just God mercifully accepts sinners and he wants us to treat all our enemies in the same merciful, self-sacrificial way.

Grounded in God’s nature What, according to Jesus, is the theological foundation of his call for costly, non-retaliatory love, even for enemies? Jesus grounds it in the nature of God: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:9, 44–45, 48).

Jesus’ conception of the suffering Messiah who goes to the cross as a ransom for sinners takes us further in understanding of God’s way of dealing with enemies. At the Last Supper, Jesus stated he was going to die for the sake of others (1 Corinthians 11:24, Matthew 26:28). The One who taught his followers to imitate God’s love for enemies now dies with a forgiving prayer on his lips for the enemies who nail him to the cross (Luke 23:34).

Paul said, “God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us…While we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son” (Romans 5:8,10). As the substitutionary atonement indicates, we are enemies (Romans 1:18), but Christ redeemed us from the curse from failing to obey the law by becoming cursed for us (Galatians 3:10–14). Jesus’ blood

The last word is resurrection Rather than say Jesus’ vision does not work in this world, Christians know the last word about Jesus is resurrection. God raised Jesus from the tomb, conquering the powers of evil and demonstrating that this teacher of nonviolence is God incarnate, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The resurrection both makes possible and demands obedience to Jesus’ nonviolent way.

Christian Peacemaker Teams has been in the news. Years ago it was my basic proposal that led to the formation of CPT. Now is the time for the Anabaptist centre of the Mennonite Church to dramatically expand Christian Peacemaker Teams from a few dozen people to hundreds, even thousands of CPTers.

Remember the context: The 20th century has been the most violent in human history, yet there have been amazing successes of non-violence. Without much training or resources, nonviolence has changed history.

That means something very significant for both Just War Christians and pacifists. How can Just War Christians claim war as the last resort when non-violence hasn’t been tried? And pacifists claim to have a better way. If we think that, then we had T better live it. M Ron Sider (Ph.D., Yale) is professor of theology and culture at Palmer Seminary, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania.

Raised in Ontario, Sider is a credentialed minister in both Brethren in Christ and Mennonite churches. He is the president of Evangelicals for Social Action (www.esaonline.org). Sider is married and has grown children. This article is condensed from a convention message (based on his notes).

Photos (except Ron Sider) from Christian Peacemaker Teams (www.cpt.org).

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

with our missionaries Mozambique

Years of peace and what have we done?

It’s been my dream for some years, as TEAM’s church relations coordinator, to visit Central Mozambique where the Evangelical Church has more than 146 congregations and leaders.

This vast, needy and spiritually dark land has a population of over 19 million. More than 99 percent are native Black people and less than one percent are Europeans. I’ve read that a rural Mozambican must walk an average of 46 kilometres to reach the nearest doctor, 66 kilometres to the nearest secondary school, and 48 kilometres to the nearest telephone.

Recently, I went on a 12-day trip to look at the country’s needs. Here are my conclusions.

Two study centres were identified, one at Maputo and the other at Quelimane. We will need to network with our Zimbabwean headquarters and encourage, as best we can, our national brothers in Mozambique to commit themselves to action steps that will bring the Theological Education by Extension (TEE) program into meaningful existence.

I was encouraged to see the solid working relationship that exists between Pastor Vilanculos and TEAM. Pastor Vilanculos and TEAM are committed to making TEE happen. Let’s pray that they find the right teachers and students to make for an exciting start. The Nazerene TEE program is also available to those in the area, in addition to our program.

They are willing to help with materials, should we need that.

Zambezia goods truck

The Brazilian missionaries at Dondo are well on their way to developing their Bible College for formal Bible training.

Until that happens we can use the AIM school at Beira where six of our folk have already graduated from; we can also use the Nazarene school at Maputo.

needs. It is a mother church in a strategic location, but has no building because of a storm that took it all away. Pray for him as he will recruit EC builders to go to Milange in the months to follow with necessary funds and help them rebuild.

Idugo island is one place among many

Ready to leave Maputo: Pastor and Mrs. Vilanculos (Mrs. Vilanculos did not go on the journey), Joe Reimer, and Pastor Mathenjwa.

While travelling our EC men with South African connections identified several prospective volunteer pastors in South Africa who could help with denominational training. This could be done along with TEE training or otherwise.

The programme just needs to be put into motion and teachers can be recruited.

I could see the missions vision twinkle in Pastor Mathenjwa’s eyes as we talked about the Milange church building

Olga and Joe Reimer (Blumenort) have been involved for many years with The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM), much of that church planting in South Africa.

in Mozambique where the children remain uneducated because there are no schools. I asked Pastor Vilanculos what these kids did with their time. He jokingly said “they eat, sleep and make triplets.” The sad truth is that it’s not a joke; it’s reality for them. He says the government is open to missions coming to help with schooling.

Chamanculo is the largest church that the EC has in Maputo. The site was acquired and developed during the early years in the hope that this would become the main church in Maputu. It has proven to be unsuitable. It is low and frequently gets flooded, sometimes with over a meter of water covering the area.

More seriously, it is a slum area with security problems. Several people have been held up, threatened, and robbed of their belongings. Some of our key folk are leaving the church.

The Maxaquene church which meets in the garage of Pastor and Mrs. Vilanculos is the prosperous one in Maputo. Key figures like the minister of defence used to come here, but are not happy to meet in a private residence.

More recently they have been notified that the government is making steps to

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

close temporary house churches.

They have been desperately looking for a permanent site for some years, but nothing affordable is coming up. There are two sites that are presently available.

How can we join with the church in South Africa and Swaziland and help them?

Given the history of Mozambique’s 10-year war of independence from Portugal, followed by 17 more years of civil war till 1992, we must view the present opportunities in Mozambique as a window of time that may well be temporary.

Fourteen years of peace and open doors have passed, and what have we done? We have an EC leader in Pastor Vilanculos there now who is amazingly capable to mobilize people. We must capture the moment and help or miss it and regret it.

Joe Reimer

Idugo Island Church

with our churches

10th anniversary celebrated Taber, Alta.: On the May long weekend we celebrated our church’s 10th anniversary.

And what a celebration it was! We spent the weekend laughing and reminiscing about the past 10 years. We invited Pastor Peter Wiebe and his wife Anne, who were the original church planters, to join us for the weekend and speak as well.

We also invited the Taber Ministerial chairman, Pastor Kris Peters, as well as Conference Pastor David Thiessen to join us for the weekend.

Even big kids want to play. Henry Klassen couldn’t resist trying it out. Of course, his excuse was he had to make sure it was safe for his son to play on.

And just when we didn’t think our weary bodies could handle any more fun, the Singing Hills brought a concert in the evening.

They must have known we would need their sense of humour to keep some of us awake and laughing. At one point the leader of the group asked if any of the men in the congregation were able to sing bass. Peter Martens lifted his hand and before he knew it he was coerced Abe Dyck and family brought a special number. into helping the band, which We started the weekend on Friday brought a lot of laughter from everyone. evening with a church service that I think maybe Peter will think twice next included reminiscing, a message, and a time before he raises his hand. special number by the Abe Dyck family, who were among the first to attend the newly planted church. Saturday was the big day for everyone. There was a big inflatable obstacle course for kids, and lots of food and fellowship for adults.

There were two services that day; the morning one was followed by an enormous lunch.

During this time we heard more special numbers by the church choir as well as one group that was made of the families that first started the church. A slide show was also presented; that, for a lot of people, was the highlight of the Pastor Edwin and Lillian Plett with Anne and Pastor afternoon.

Peter Wiebe

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

We look back at the last ten years and we see that God has been so good to us. We have grown spiritually and in numbers. God has given us many joys that we praise Him for. Besides those joys, there have been times that were also filled with sadness, frustration, and confusion. There were times where we wondered what God’s plan was for our church and how to understand his master plan better. But by putting our trust in Him we can now look back and see that God always has a plan for each one of us.

We look forward to the next 10 years.

Our desire is to be a light to the world as well as to our community. If our trust is put in our God the Father, great things can be accomplished. We look forward to seeing what God’s future plans are for us.

Tina Dyck

Peter Martens trying his best to help the band.

Vanderhoof welcomes members Vanderhoof, B.C.: On January 1, 2006, Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship welcomed seven new members. John and Barb Funk and Judy Stringer publicly committed their lives to the Lord. They gave heart-felt testimonies, then were baptized. Peter and Anne Wiebe transferred their membership home after much missionary work.

Pete and Sue Dyck became members.

Natosha Wiebe Judy Stringer is baptized by Dave Wall and Pastor Brad Schneck (right). This was Pastor Brad’s first baptism.

New members: John and Barb Funk, Anne and Peter Wiebe, Sue and Pete Dyck, Jody Stringer, and pastoral couple Cathie and Brad Schneck.

Children benefit from VBS Creighton, Sask.: An average of thirty children went on the Amazing Journey to Bible Times at the Vacation Bible School at Northern Fellowship Chapel in Creighton from August 14-18.

Skit characters Sassy Want-a-Lot (Sandra Schroeder), Murray in a Hurry (intern Janelle Hacault), and Mr. Scriber (Pastor Scott Koop) dealt with day to day struggles in helping each other pursue Sassy’s dream of the “fountain of youth.”

All ended well with a program on Friday. Children sang and took home crafts made during the week. Margaret Moorhead had spent many hours making snacks of food eaten during Bible times.

Pastor Scott Koop thanked parents for attending the program and for sending their children to VBS. Song leaders Deb Odegaard and Janelle Hacault were pleased with the children’s performance.

Janice Imrie

About 30 children attended VBS at Northern Fellowship Chapel. Skit characters (right) were Murray in a Hurry (Janelle Hacault), Sassy Wanta-Lot (Sandra Schroeder), and Mr. Scriber (Pastor Scott Koop).

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Easter service held in cemetery Roseisle, Man. The Ladies Fellowship group held the annual Perogy Supper on April 7 and we were once again blown away by the attendance.

Our church hosted the combined Good Friday service on April 14. The neighbouring Roseisle Pentecostal Assembly joined us. After the service we visited with our neighbours over lunch.

Our annual Easter Sunrise Service was held on April 16, which we celebrated at our local cemetery, a first for us. After the service we went back to the church for brunch.

Ladies Fellowship held their windup supper at Bubbas in Carman on May 29.

We had a small meeting to finish up for the summer months.

The youth did the 30 Hour Famine on June 2–3 this year. Games were planned as well as having video games and movies set up through our projector system. Big screen car racing and movies like Madagascar were lots of fun.

Friday night we had a great devotional and worship time and then the youth and

leaders took 30 minutes to have private quiet time where they were encouraged to worship God in whatever way they chose. The only rule was they had to be by themselves. For Saturday more games were planned, including our version of The Amazing Race. It was fun but tiring.

At 2 p.m. on Saturday afternoon the youth were able to enjoy their first meal in 30 hours. Garlic toast, Caesar salad, and pizza were on the menu.

Youth leaders encouraged the youth to raise $50 each and the majority surpassed this with ease. They were able to raise well over $1,000 to help feed hungry children through World Vision.

Great job, guys!

VBS was held on June 5–9 and our theme this year was Fiesta! Many kids showed up night after night to sing, listen to the nightly Bible stories, and find out what would happen to Chatter the Chipmunk on his adventure through the desert and more. Everyone had so much fun and it took many people to put it together.

The finale was held for the parents and the kids had a chance to show some of what they had learned. All the kids had a shot at breaking open the piñatas and then collecting the candy. I had the chance to be involved this year, and I can definitely tell you it’s rewarding and encouraging when you see kids who are fired up about Jesus!

The Christian Education Committee and all the volunteers did an excellent job of planning and making sure everything ran smoothly night after night.

On June 11 we had our annual Sunday School picnic, but this year we enjoyed it on our freshly grown grass in our churchyard and at the new Roseisle Public Park across the street. We had a service in the morning where each class presented something as well as music and singing. The afternoon consisted of a barbecue lunch, races and games, baseball and flaps.

On June 25 we had our promotion Sunday, which would also end Sunday School for the summer months.

Lyndsey Bourgeois

Pastor behind the time Abbeydale (Calgary, Alta.): Albertans celebrated the advent of spring by turning their clocks ahead on April 2. Usually a few people walk into the service late, but this year a certain newcomer to Calgary arrived just in time to preach, not in time for Sunday School. Pastor David Funk laughed with us and, no doubt, will pay closer attention to the peculiar Alberta tradition in the future.

In another spring event, the Outreach Committee hosted a coffeehouse featuring relaxing music and delectable desserts. They are considering other activities to which we will be encouraged

Fawne, Ben and Wyatt Arsenault

10

to invite friends, neighbours and coworkers where they can meet Christians in a casual setting.

On Mother’s Day two of our newest mothers shared their stories. Kendra Funk, wife of Pastor David and mother of Ethan, shared her earlier struggle with the loss of miscarriage. Claiming to not have anything profound, just “some thoughts that were floating in and out of her exhausted new-mommy existence,” she challenged our attitudes about servanthood: It’s hard! God’s faithfulness has been revealed in laughter and joy despite the sleep deprivation.

Fawne Arsenault is mom to Wyatt, a precious firstborn son who has brought this young couple into a place they never imagined.

Shortly after his birth, Wyatt was diagnosed with Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome (4P minor). In shock, Fawne and Ben listened to the doctor’s words: “Wyatt will never speak, probably never walk and will have a very short life.”

Fawne told us of their very real fears and day-to-day frustrations.

She also told us how God is ministering to them daily, giving them strength, proving that there is indeed “beauty in weakness.”

Church camp began Friday evening, June 2. Saturday was filled with activities including a puzzle scavenger hunt and, of course, the favourite tradition of “duct tape boat” races. Participants were divided into five-member teams and

Son Ethan with Kendra Funk

provided with duct tape and Foamcore boards. Designs became boats which were named and decorated.

Teams launched them into the water with lifeguards standing by. Eric Eaton passed us on the trail, muttering, “This is gonna be dangerous.” Okay, so the water was shallow and lifeguards were

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

Pastor David Funk with new members Richard Charanduk, Joshua Dueck, Kristina Kolman and Linda Pigeault.

Abbeydale boat races

a bit superfluous. It was still exciting and after five heats the Bluestream was proclaimed the overwhelming victor.

The secret of Al Kavanagh’s design? “A keel,” he said. “Every boat needs a keel!”

Special mention was given to Jennifer for her role in the Titanic video. The only complaint was made by Kelly, one of the teen girls, “I really didn’t want to get my hair wet! I didn’t even bring my hair straightener!”

Saturday evening, Len Nation appealed to the baby-boomers by portraying a reenactment of Sesame Street’s Grover and his lesson on “near and far.” As we strive to come near to God, Len encouraged us to: Remember that God never promised it would be easy, where we would be otherwise, and where we are headed.

On Sunday our city church doors remained closed as a bus loaded passengers to join the campers at Camp

Harmattan for the worship service and baptism. We listened to stories of how God transformed lives and then, under the blessing of a bright blue sky, walked down to the river to witness the baptisms of Richard Charanduk, Kristina Kolman and Joshua Dueck. Earlier in the service Linda Pigeault was also accepted as a member.

Brenda Dyck

Deaths and life at Rosenort EMC

Rosenort EMC (Man.): Our church family has been in a long season of mourning, with the recent deaths of our long-time missionary Miss Dora Friesen; our former pastor and EMC bishop Pete L. Friesen; a beloved mother, Mrs. Margaret (John F.) Friesen; and two brothers who guided our church in many ways: Levi and Paul Brandt. We are grateful for their faithful example.

We continue to pray for the many individuals in our church that struggle with difficult health concerns. At one point this summer, we were able to visit six of our church members in Morris Hospital in one day.

Since our church is Evangelical Mennonite by name, we are finding great ways to reflect that in our actions.

We have a fantastic team to work in

Rosenort EMC parent-child dedication May 14: Scott and Brandi Siemens with Kalia Rose, Bern ��������������� and Heidi Schellenberg with Kai Dante, and Dwight and Carol Loewen with Carter Bryce.

conjunction with the Franklin Graham Festival in October 2006. We already have many members who are part of the Billy Graham telephone and prayer ministry and we need more. Pray that hundreds of Manitobans would soon renew or begin a relationship with Jesus.

It is with enthusiasm that several Bible study groups have changed into service groups serving at Siloam Mission, InnerCity, MCC Thrift Store, Winnipeg Harvest, Union Gospel and doing local visitation/singing on Wednesdays.

Two work teams from our church served with MDS in Jennifer Friesen, Michael Brandt, Cristina Waldner, Chase Yellowquill, hurricane-ravaged parts of the U.S. this winter; they and have Raquel Kornelsen, and Brenley Dueck were baptized on May 28.

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

reported, with tears, that the losses they witnessed are absolutely devastating.

Our youth group had an excellent Spring Break tour that included prison ministry and helping at homeless shelters. They have received several letters from those they ministered to.

Lorilee Scharfenberg

STRAFFORDVILLE EMC 10TH ANNIVERSARY Straffordville, Ontario October 29, 2006 Service at 10:45 a.m., lunch, an afternoon program followed by a light supper. Everyone welcome.

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Kola holds Deeper Life meetings Kola, Man.: Kola Church has been full of activities over the last few months. In March we had our Deeper Life meetings.

John and Roberta MacGregor were the speakers. Bert and Liz Genaille came along as well to provide special music.

John spoke about prayer and we were all challenged by his words. The children had their own services led by Curtis and Bonnie Szakacs.

April 30 was special because it was parent-child dedication Sunday. Chad and Jennifer Lesner with Mattea, Nathan and Lorri Penner with Charlize, Eugene and Shawna Siemens with Jordan and Ethan, and Paul and Christie Archambault with Nathan, were all part of the dedication service.

Earlier in April a missions night was held and a number of the youth that had participated in short term missions gave reports on what they had been doing.

Tamara and Tyson Martens spoke about their time in Ethiopia working with Rolf and Angela Kruse. Jenette Martens was in Guatemala with Outta Town.

Terry Schellenberg and Kelsey Friesen reported on their time working with MDS. Kara Koop shared about her time in Australia with YWAM. Another exciting day was Baptism Sunday in May. Four youth were baptized: Jake Hiebert, Joel Martens, Kaila Neufeld,

Joel Martens, Kaila Neufeld, Jake Hiebert, and Kevin Koop were baptized on May 28, 2006.

and Kevin Koop. It is a blessing to see our youth following after God in taking this important step of obedience.

We held our annual Sunday School picnic/wind-up on June 11. Though the weather was rainy and cold, we managed to stay semi-warm inside the arena and had a good time watching skits done by various Sunday school classes and

reminiscing about Sunday school in years gone by. A barbecue fundraiser was put on by the youth. There was a volleyball game organized later in the afternoon, as well as a wiener roast.

God keeps working in and through our church and we are excited to see what He has in store for all of us.

Courtney Kliever

Sunday school picnic not rained out!

Crestview (Winnipeg, Man.): Spring at Crestview Fellowship was a busy time.

Parent-child dedications were held on March 26, 2006. Gord and Anna Doerksen dedicated their daughter Madison Reann, while Daryl and Cindy Unrau dedicated their son Reece Bradley.

In April missionaries Josh and Marlo Enns transferred membership to our church, bringing their daughters

Maneesha and Nadia with them. Nadia was also dedicated within our church this spring.

June 4 started out cloudy and rainy, but as four people were baptized the skies cleared and the sun began to shine warm and bright. It was a day of celebration as John Klassen, Jim Hogg, Lisa Comeau, and Janis Fleury were baptized into the family of God and became members of

Crestview Fellowship Church.

June 11 was the annual Sunday School picnic, and for the first time in several years it did not get rained out. The wellattended service was held at Assiniboine Park. A picnic lunch followed and the afternoon was spent playing baseball by many of the adults, while races and games were organized for younger children. Everyone enjoyed the sunny weather and good fellowship.

Janis Fleury

Gord and Anna Doerkson with Madison (dedicated), Camryn and Joshua; Cindy and Daryl Unrau with Liam and Reece (dedicated) Jim Hogg, John Klassen, Janis Fleury, Lisa Comeau, and Pastor Vern Knutson

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(with our churches continued on page 14)

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

by the way Dave K. Schellenberg

Continue to follow the Lord!

F

ather’s Day gave me an opportunity to address some family members. I wanted it to be something that I wished for myself and them.

The word continue came to mind. I found it in the Bible. In 1 Timothy 4:16 Paul addresses these words of challenge and encouragement: “Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine; continue in them.” That became the point of my talk.

Later I explored this thought further.

Competing with the Christian’s allegiance today, as in all ages, are the lusts of the flesh and of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16)—the allurements of the world. At times we fall prey to these allurements, which easily can crowd out God. As Philip Yancey puts it, “The busyness of life, including all its religious busyness, can crowd out God. I confess that some days I meet people, work, make decisions, talk on the phone, all without giving God a single thought” (I Was Just Wondering, p. 97). I easily identify with Yancey in this.

Continue takes on great significance. It does not berate us for any neglect we may have shown, but now, at this moment, pick it up and continue, or begin over.

I am not alone in the challenge of continuing.

Recently I received a newsletter from a missionary couple where they ask prayer that a couple will “continue to walk with the Lord and grow in their marriage” and for themselves “that we will continue to grow in intimacy with the Lord.” Yes, continue is a vital need in the Christian experience because around us there are hindrances to continuing.

On another occasion in Scripture, the challenge is to continue in the grace of God. Paul and Barnabas find themselves in Antioch on the first missionary journey: “Many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed

Connected laments that “our daily lives have, in effect, become profoundly secularized. The result is that our time with God is squeezed into fewer and fewer small moments, and many find their relationship with God to be occasional or relegated just to times of trouble or stress” (The Voice, Evangelical Anabaptist Fellowship, June 2006).

I am sometimes concerned that my prayer life is too stale. Does it really make a difference to those I pray for? Then I read a verse like Colossians 4:2. Here Paul challenges us to “continue in prayer.” I again take heart.

I am encouraged as prayer requests continue to surface in missionary newsletters. Keep them coming!

In Colossians 1:23 there’s a promise for the future that they will be presented “holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight,” if they continue in the faith.

It is no bright picture which Paul paints for Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:10-15: Afflictions and persecution for all those who will live godly in Christ Jesus. To counter this, he challenges Timothy to “continue in the things which thou hast learned.” Jesus admonished the disciples to continue in his love (John 15:9)—a recognition that we might grow faint.

Finally, I’m reminded of what Ethel Waters, of Billy Graham Crusade fame, said about continuing prayer.

Her prayer life was “a continual running conversation with my precious Jesus.” We can hardly improve on T that, can we? M

I am sometimes concerned that my prayer life is too stale.

Does it really make a difference to those I pray for? Then I read a verse like Colossians 4:2. Here Paul challenges us to “continue in prayer.” And I again take heart.

Paul and Barnabas; who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God” (Acts 13:43).

There is the possibility of not continuing, hence the charge to continue.

Gerry Ediger speaks about clearing space for God. His article Clearing Space, Paying Attention, Being THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

1

Paraguay missions brought to Burns Lake Burns Lake, B.C.: It’s a prayer and dream come true after one and a half years. Our church has Dave and Judy Schmidt as our adopted missionaries. We feature them several times a year by live phone calls, video clips, letters, and prayer reminders.

The last time they were on furlough we had them here for a few days to reacquaint ourselves. They extended a hearty invitation for our church to come and visit them in Asuncion, Paraguay.

This is when the prayer wheel of the Lord’s directing was put in motion.

The last week in April this all came to reality. There were six from our church who went to experience our conference’s mission work and get exposed to life in Paraguay. We were treated to lunch at the home of EMC missionaries Hernan and Landis Benitez the day we arrived.

That evening we got a crash course on the culture and practices of Paraguay: We all had terrara (a tea)!

Our first breakfast at the AIDS Centre, directed by Dave and Judy, was one we won’t forget. We looked at what was in front of us and thought, “This is it?” We prayed and decided this was breakfast; therefore, we needed to eat.

weddings BARKMAN – KOOP: Trevor, son of Bruce Barkman and Mary Barkman, and Valery, daughter of Art and Thelma Koop of Ste. Anne, Man., were married on June 17, 2006, at Anola Fellowship Chapel in Anola, Man., with Pastor Peter Hall of Anola officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg, Man. CAVANAGH – REIMER: David, son of Harold and Margaret Cavanagh, and Shirley, daughter of Tina Reimer, were married on July 1, 2006, at Morrow Gospel Church in Winnipeg, Man., with Jerry Plett officiating. The couple lives in Kinburn, Ont. KLASSEN – SAWATZKY: George, son of Peter and Susanna Klassen, and Susie, daughter of Ben and Nettie Sawatzky, were married on August 5, 2006, at Mount Salem EMC in Mount Salem, Ont. MAILMAN – TEICHROEB: Tyler, son of David and Lorraine Mailman, and Terri Lynn, daughter of Bob and Helen Teichroeb, were married on June 24, 2006, in Grande Prairie, Alta., with Rick Hall officiating. The couple lives in Grande Prairie.

BRANDT – DOERKSEN: Jay, son of Mervin and Betty Brandt, and Cherie, daughter of Peter and Martha Doerksen, were married on July 29, 2006, in Grande Prairie, Alta., with Peter Doerksen officiating. The couple lives in Grande Prairie.

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At the foot of Iguazu Falls in Paraguay: Henry Plett and his son Kendall, Jim and Vida Thiessen, and Rosalie and Bill Bueckert.

For the next two days we painted doors and frames at the Centre. But most importantly we were able to experience the heart beat of Dave and Judy and their love for those living with HIV/AIDS. We had an opportunity to wrap our arms around them and pray for God’s safety, wisdom and physical strength. What sacrificial love!

We had the experience of doing a prayer walk with Hernan and Landis in Yotororo claiming a piece of property for a future church where they are doing a

births RITCHOT – to Dane and Dayle Ritchot of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Savannah Jade, on May 21, 2006.

KNUTSON – to Vern and Lana Knutson of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Reuben Selmer, on May 11, 2006.

FIELD – to Tim and Matilda Field of Steinbach, Man., a son, Page Wesley, on January 9, 2006.

KUNZELMAN – to Chris and Monica Kunzelman of Steinbach, Man., a son, Karsten Christopher Thomas, on April 26, 2006.

DOERKSEN – to Christopher and Stephanie Doerksen of Grande Prairie, Alta., a son, Lucas Christopher, on June 22, 2006.

KRAHN – to Richard and Heidi Krahn of Grande Prairie, Alta., a son, Timothy Mark, on September 3, 2006.

GUENTHER – to John and Susie Guenther of Aylmer, Ont., a son, Marcel Eagan, on July 31, 2006.

church plant. We also did a prayer walk with Gil and Renita Rempel around La Fortuna in Camp 9 where they are doing a church plant. We interceded with missionaries in Caaguazu for the freeing of a man who was demon possessed. We sang and preached at Yhovy. We can’t forget Tres Palmas church members and their hospitality.

There were three other work projects we did in the various places our missionaries are. We got exposed to Paraguay by various tours led by our missionaries. We thank you very much for giving of your time on our behalf.

We took a part of Paraguay with us to share with our church in Burns Lake.

What made an impression was to see how little the people have and yet they seem to be so content. We were affected by the passion for the lost, which our missionaries displayed from young to older, from west to east, whether by visiting, counseling or radio ministry.

We thank you very much, Paraguay missionaries, for taking time for us and sharing your lives with us.

We have a great responsibility to pray for our missionaries. We should also pray for more workers at the AIDS Centre as there is much more that could be done. May God richly strengthen and protect you, our faithful Paraguayan missionaries. I encourage other churches to embark on a trip to visit our EMC missionaries.

Henry Plett

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

Rest Haven celebrates 60 years The weekend of August 18–20, 2006, was celebration time for Rest Haven Care Services in Steinbach. The occasion was a 60th anniversary event. It started off with a fundraiser barbecue on Friday, August 18. This was followed by the dedication and unveiling of a Founders’ Cairn and pocket park on Saturday, August 19.

On Sunday afternoon, August 20, the celebration continued at Steinbach Evangelical Fellowship Church, which included, by me, a Rest Haven 60th anniversary history on PowerPoint; and the unveiling of a new name for Rest Haven Care Services: Haven Group. It covers Rest Haven Nursing Home, Ashwood, Birchview, Cedarwood, Parkview, and Rest Haven Foundation.

As well, Kelvin Goertzen, MLA for Steinbach, addressed the congregation in behalf of the Manitoba government; and Dwight Reimer, Steinbach councilor, spoke for the City of Steinbach.

Haven Group is owned by seven EMC churches in Steinbach and area, and the nine-member board of directors is made up of representatives from these churches. Marlin Roth is the CEO of Haven Group.

Dave K. Schellenberg

The cairn at the pocket park bears the names of the six designated founding committee members of Rest Haven: John R. Toews, C. T. Loewen, Rev. Frank D. Reimer, Peter A. Unrau, Gerhard Bartel, and Henry R. Friesen.

In remembrance of the founders of Rest Haven in 1946, a cairn and a pocket park were unveiled and dedicated on August 19. The location is on Kroeker Ave., at the entrance to Parkview Apartments.

Diverse Christian groups meet How can Christians express their faith in a secularized Europe? How do people become Christians? Who belongs to the church? What is the church? How does the church relate to society and the state?

Some 50 representatives from a range of Christian denominations and organizations in Europe wrestled with this, gathering June 19–22. The meeting, hosted by the Syrian Orthodox Church, took place at its monastery, St. Jacob of Sarug, in Warburg, Germany.

They came from Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Evangelical, Friends (Quakers), Lutheran, Mennonite, Methodist, OldCatholic, Orthodox (Eastern and Oriental), Pentecostal, Reformed and the Salvation Army. For some, it was the first face-to-face meeting.

Bernhard Ott from Liestal, Switzerland, represented Mennonite World Conference.

Ott and two Quaker participants insisted that peace and reconciliation must stand at the centre of a Christian public witness.

Together with Baptist friends, Ott also brought to the difference between a Constantinian view of the church and a believers church.

Many underlying tensions between

churches in Europe have to do with different theological views, but this meeting was marked by a spirit of openness and trust.

Participants prayed and praised God in the different styles of their traditions, shared their faith journeys, heard about the presence and witness of faith communities and how churches belonging to the ecumenical movement and evangelical and pentecostal churches are bridging gaps between them. They identified issues which are sometimes obstacles, but which can also be opportunities for cooperation.

Among issues discussed that Ott identified were clashes between evangelical missions in Eastern Europe with Orthodox churches, relations between European churches and rapidly growing immigrant churches, and concerns relating to the growing Muslim presence.

They became aware that lack of contact has given rise to misunderstandings and that face to face dialogue is important.

“To interact in this diverse group in an open and respectful atmosphere focusing on common challenges we are

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

facing in Europe was important, inspiring and fruitful,” says Ott. “It should be the beginning of an ongoing dialogue.”

An official statement said the Global Christian Forum should continue in Europe, especially at local, national and sub-regional levels. It asked regional church organizations in Europe to help bring together mainline churches involved in the ecumenical movement and evangelical/pentecostal faith traditions.

MWC

Prairie Grove Fellowship Chapel is celebrating 30 years as a church!

Join us for a service of remembering and thanking God for what He has done.

October 8 at 9:45 a.m.

230 Station Road in Lorette, Man., a quarter-mile north of the Dawson Trail Motor Inn. 204-878-4738 15

S

A history and a heart for reaching out

uperintendent Gaylene Kornelsen is lively!

It’s Riverton Gospel Chapel’s promotion Sunday, September 10, 2006. Gaylene announces classes, students, teachers, and locations. Grade 2 students are awarded Bibles.

Beginning on September 17 Sunday school starts 15 minutes earlier (at 9:45 a.m.) to allow time for Bible memorization, she says.

Gaylene holds up a cookie of mixed flavours and ingredients, and says that church people vary but work together. After prayer, people disperse to various locations.

The adult class stays in the sanctuary. Brad Kornelsen resumes spring’s study of Come Let Us Worship (by Don Thiessen of SBC). Speaking in evangelism is an act of outward worship, Brad says. A godly presence without speaking isn’t enough, but if speaking can happen from a hospital bed, or in Uganda, why not in Riverton?

Pastoral couple Listening carefully is Pastor Don Timmons, 47.

Timmons shies away from being a public figure, though he’s a self-admitted extrovert. And Uganda? He and his

Pastor Don and Diane Timmons

younger daughter Hillary were just there from August 2-26, mostly serving in door-to-door evangelism. Don’s strong interests in theology, counseling, and missions are shown by a B.A. and two M.A. degrees in these areas.

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Don’s speech hints at his family’s Cape Breton origins. How did Don and his wife Diane, both raised in Truro, Nova Scotia, come to study in Caronport, Sask., and to serve Riverton Gospel Chapel in Manitoba’s Interlake? By the Lord’s grace, they would say.

Don’s openness comes from his spiritual passion, reflective nature, and professional training. He wasn’t actively raised within congregational life, had happy early years, tough teen years—and a friend named Diane, who disliked his lifestyle. She issued an ultimatum and he opted for her. They were married 28 years ago. Don was baptized in her home congregation of First Baptist Church.

They had two girls, Melissa and Hillary. The family dropped out from church attendance, but later became involved in an Alliance church through the invitation of a daughter’s friend.

Don and Diane felt God speaking and, though not required, responded by being Paul Peters and Brad Kornelsen rebaptized.

In 1995 two lengthy periods of study began at Briercrest—with a stressful intermission of working in New Brunswick and Ontario in non-pastoral roles. Don began as pastor at Riverton in January 2005.

Pastor Don says the tough times he’s experienced have been a training ground that helps him relate to others and to share how God has helped a real person.

He hopes people going through struggles see in him a listening, caring person who can encourage them.

Diane works as a commercial painter (partly because of student debts). She’s glad to get paid for what she “loves” doing. She’s friendly and a good hostess. (She’s in the kitchen all the time, Eileen Plett says.) Don says she’s supportive and provides a needed perspective.

Melissa is married and is studying nursing in Winnipeg.

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

Bernice and Frank Gustaw

Hillary works in a daycare that uses RGC’s old building.

Past and present In the 1950s people from Mennville EMC began holding Vacation Bible School and “a program…every four weeks” in Riverton. Church services were later started and the first resident pastor was Edwin Wright (Editor Dave K. Schellenberg’s profile, June 6, 1980).

Today, Frank and Bernice Gustaw (pronounced with a v in Poland) recall Wright as a friendly man with a sense of humour. Gustaws moved here 40 years ago when Frank began teaching high school.

Betty Kornelsen has been involved from RGC’s early years. Aurelia Kroeker, with her pastor husband Menno, began serving RGC in fall 1970. They emphasize that RGC began as a mission outreach of Mennville.

Though finding land was important for Dutch-German Mennonites who moved to the Interlake, Grandma Kroeker (as Diane says she’s called) said the desire for outreach was stronger.

RGC’s new building started to be used in December 2001, says council chairman Paul Peters. It’s a spacious one-level structure, with an eye-catching architecture; its high spire and cross likely resonate with Riverton’s community members of an Icelandic Lutheran background.

The area also includes people of Ukrainian, DutchGerman, First Nations and other cultures. Riverton, with

Ministerial couple Ruth and Brian Dyck with children Curtis, Jeremy, Jessica, Joel, and Nathan.

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

Gaylene Kornelsen with Sunday school students

a village population of 594, also has Lutheran, Baptist, and Fellowship Circle (Mennonite Church Canada) congregations.

Structure and strengths Seniors meet every other Tuesday for Bible Eileen Plett study, fellowship, games, and an occasional outing. A mid-week Bible study begins on Sept. 27. It will be a True Faced study to help people take off the mask and be more real with God and others, says Pastor Timmons. The ladies meet occasionally. The youth group is changing, with sponsors currently unconfirmed. A Wednesday morning prayer meeting has struggled, so a new time is being considered.

A care group meets once or twice a month in various homes. It’s an informal time for families, such as a barbecue at a gravel pit pond or bowling. College and career meets on Sunday nights; this weekend they were on a retreat at Lac du Bonnet. Riverton and Mennville EMC work together in various events. The two churches appreciate each other, Pastor Don says.

The church council meets monthly. It has representatives from Sunday school, finances, worship, and pastoral care. The council is responsible for the church’s overall direction and health, subject to the congregation.

The ministerial tries to meet monthly: Pastoral couple Don and Diane Timmons, deacon couple Brad and Debbie Kornelsen, deacon couple Waldon and Eileen Plett, ministerial couple Brian and Ruth Dyck, and senior representative Aurelia Kroeker. Youth sponsors are sometimes invited.

What are RGC’s strengths? Good, capable leaders, says Pastor Don, making it easier for him to come in as a first-time pastor. The church is adaptable and in a crisis 17

his sermons are thoughtful and pitches in well, says Paul Peters. well-organized. Peters says it’s a Peters describes RGC as casual, challenge, though, for them as a very spiritually committed, but first-time pastoral couple to be in “laid back.” The decision-making process is informal, like a family’s, a congregation that has a limited he says, a style that can become a long-term vision. weakness because of “last minute Don says while he’s still planning.” learning about the EMC, he’s Challenges? There are mixed impressed by its emphasis on views on how effective RGC is at missions and by the contact he’s outreach. Aurelia Kroeker says had with conference pastor David Betty Kornelsen and Aurelia Kroeker it’s a strength, while Paul and Thiessen. Paul says it’s nice to Don say it happens but that more have a couple new to the EMC, could be done. How does Paul envision reaching beyond who can help the congregation consider how it does a conservative image of Mennonite? In friendship, not things; in turn, the church appreciates an opportunity Bible verses and gospel choruses, he says. to help a young pastor find his way in ministry.

What should the EMC understand about RGC? Pastor It’s a common concern of Pastor Don Timmons and Don says the church seeks to know and do God’s will chair Paul Peters that newcomers would feel welcome and reach out to those in need with the Saviour’s love and find a body of imperfect believers seriously seeking and plan for their lives—“that we care enough about to respond to the Word and reaching out to those the lost.” RGC is a small, family-oriented church, Paul around them.

A potluck is often held when there is a guest speaker.

responds. Riverton appreciates the wider EMC and is fortunate to draw upon a larger body and its support doctrinally, Peters says.

What helps Don and Diane to fit into the church at Riverton?

Don partly credits an East Coast background as fitting the fishing and farming cultures of the Interlake.

Paul Peters credits RGC’s openness to befriending and including new pastoral couples. Aurelia Kroeker and Betty Kornelsen say the ages of Don and Diane fit the congregation.

Paul sees Don and Diane as a “very caring couple.” Don is a good listener and Diane is supportive of him. The pastor is well-read and 18

Service The morning service starts with a welcome and announcements by Brad Kornelsen. The praise band leads in songs, including You Are Holy, I Can Only Imagine, and Be Unto Your Name. Paul Peters reads Scripture. Pastor Timmons leads in a sharing and prayer time.

I give the message. There’s a closing song, and Pastor Timmons delivers the word of benediction.

But the service isn’t over. It flows into a potluck dinner, where food and visiting (and even the sound of dishes crashing) unite people. It also flows into the Hymn Sing scheduled for RGC later that evening—and T beyond. M Terry M. Smith

Linda Kroeker, Brian Dyck’s family, and Kurt Kornelsen lead singing during the Sunday school’s common opening.

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

shoulder tapping 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 forwardlooking 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.

time pastoral couple to serve the church and to develop long-term relationships with people of the community.

The smaller 50-year-old congregation is part of Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, a community that has a Christian history going back to 1879. The congregation is located about 45 minutes from Virden and Brandon.

A strong sense of God’s call and a love for people are required. Direct inquiries to David Pashe, 204730-0409, e-mail: pashed@westman.wave.ca; or to Len Barkman, 204-326-6401, e-mail: emclen@mts.net.

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 204-378-2778 (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 (204326-6401).

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.

COULD WE be looking for you? The Evangelical Mennonite Church at 422 Main St., Steinbach, Man., seeks a lead pastor. Are you an energetic person with a passion for the waking church? Are you a person that relates easily to a mult-generational church family? Do you have a strong commitment to an Evangelical Anabaptist understanding? Do you have strong teaching, preaching and organizational skills?

If this describes you, we invite you to pray and consider this opportunity.

Contact Henry Klassen, 63 Donald Ave., Steinbach, MB R5G 2B5; phone 204-326-6068; email henryk2@mts.net.

MDS INVITES weekly volunteers to register at its projects for Oct. 22 to Dec. 16. Please call the project directly. Numbers can be found at www. mds.mennonite.net or by calling 1-800-241-8111.

Work will continue in the Gulf Coast at least four locations during fall in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Skilled crews are welcome.

Volunteers able to give a month or longer should call 1-866-261-1274 and ask for Evelyn Peters-Rojas to find out what openings are available and for an application form (also available on the website). Construction foreman and head cooks are often openings that are hard to fill certain months of the year. If you have these skills and some time to give, give MDS a call.

RESERVE FELLOWSHIP Chapel (EMC), located in Sioux Valley (west-central Man.), seeks a full-

MASERU UNITED Church, situated in central Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, southern Africa, seeks a senior pastor.

MUC interconnects cultures, nationalities, and religious identities in Christ. Currently 27 different nationalities are represented. Many members are here for the short-term, about two years. Th is Protestant church reflects its members’ varied traditions in worship and educational programs.

The pastor needs to feel comfortable with his tradition and varying traditions. The pastor is to be committed, flexible, cross-cultural, able to network, open, and Christ-centred. MUC is committed to outreach.

A candidate should be ordained, a theology graduate, have at least two years senior experience, and be fluent in English.

We strongly prefer a long-term pastor, with a minimum of two years. Resumes need to arrive

by October 31, 2006: Chairman, Pastoral Search Committee, Box 365, Maseru 100, Lesotho; email: bwestom@maf.org.

MORRIS FELLOWSHIP Chapel, a church of 100 members located in the town of Morris, Man., is looking for a senior pastor. Contact Ernie Siemens at 204-746-8342 or e-mail siemensj@mts.net.

MCC ALBERTA is looking for a full-time thrift shop manager for the Calgary northeast store, located at 2946-32 Street NE, Calgary, starting immediately. If you have retail experience and management skills, and a commitment to the thrift store philosophy and working with volunteers, call Heather Klassen at 403-275-6935 or Sheila Froese at 403-932-4093.

THE EMC involves applications for the senior administrative position of General Secretary.

Responsibilities: Serve as Executive Secretary for the Board of Missions; provide management of conference finances; coordinate conference events; provide management role of national office.

Applicants should have experience and training in areas of financial management and missions administration with strong communication skills.

A job description is available upon request.

Duties to commence September 1, 2007. Please request an application form from the office at 204326-6401, fax 204-326-1613, emconf@mts.net. The application and resume can be addressed to EMC Moderator Ron Penner and forwarded to the same addresses or to 440 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5.

Available Soon!

Order information coming in next issue.



youth leaders with practical skills, tips and ideas for leading youth



and inspire youth leaders in their walk with Jesus and for service



as a Conference and as individual church leadership teams

October 13–15, 2006 Wilderness Edge, Pinawa, Man.

Laina

The story of Pastor Leonard Barkman’s mother, from 1919 to mid-1940s, by Betty Barkman 259 pp., $13 (plus shipping) Contact lbbarkmn@mts.net; 204-434-6460; Box 17, Pansy, MB R0A 1J0; or EMC national office, 440 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5; 204326-6401; or emcmessenger@mts.net.

THE MESSENGER September 20, 2006

Speaker: Marv Penner, Professor at Briercrest 19

KIDS

corner Loreena Thiessen

Something New

S

eptember is a time of change. The sun rises an hour later. Plants grow more slowly.

Leaves turn from green to Is change always fun? Sometimes yellow and brown. Ducklings have lost their soft down. Instead they change means that something old and have brown and green feathers and familiar is gone, a new thing takes look more and more like their parents; its place. Change can also be exciting they have grown up.

Baby robins are round and chunky, because you will discover something fatter than their parents from eating new; the new thing can be good too. non-stop, but still they hop after them begging for even more food. Goslings friends. On the other side make a list of all the things have their markings, black heads and a white ring that have changed. Think about how you feel about around their necks. They look like a band of friends these changes. You may be surprised to find that you as they float across the pond. Soon hundreds more like the new things too. join them.

Among these changes remember one thing never You have changed too. You may be brown and freckled from the summer sun. You may be taller. Did changes: God and his promises.

In Psalm 119:89 God says “his word is firmly you have a birthday over the summer? That makes fixed in the heavens, his faithfulness endures to all you a year older than you were last summer. generations. He has established the earth and it A new school year has begun. You are in a new stands fast.” Psalm 121 says “God is your keeper; he class. You have a new teacher and new friends. You will not sleep; he is your right hand; he will protect may have a new backpack and new running shoes. you; he will keep you from all evil.” For how long?

Your pencils are bright and sharp. You look ahead to T Forever. That is a good promise. M doing new things.

What will you enjoy most? Will you fill your clean notebooks with stories and poems? Will you learn about people of a time long ago in history? You may discover new things. Have you ever wondered why a frog jumps instead of walks, why a fawn has spots?

You need: Why a lollipop is red, or whether a lego boat would Bamboo skewer float? What makes the wind blow or the temperature Your favorite fruit change?

Your favorite yogurt Is change always fun? Sometimes change means that something old and familiar is gone, a new thing What to do: takes its place. Your new class is not the same as Cut chunks of your favorite fruit, like apple, last year’s. You may even feel uncomfortable or a bit fearful because it’s different. But change can also be pineapple, banana, strawberries, cantaloupe, exciting because you will discover something new; watermelon, oranges. Slide the chunks onto the the new thing can be good too. bamboo skewer. Dip the fruit in your favorite yogurt To help yourself, make two lists. On one side list in a bowl or in its plastic container. Dip and enjoy. things that are still the same; your family, your close

Make a Dipping Snack

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THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017 62 PAP Registration #9914