The Messenger Vol. 44 No. 17 October 4, 2006

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 44 NUMBER 17 OCTOBER 4, 2006

Loving

people the way Jesus did

The

Messenger

Two Psalms side-by-side

A

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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.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.

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.

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. 19 – November 1 (copy due October 20)

2

editorials t Thanksgiving time some congregations are counseled to “praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” Some members rejoice in sins forgiven, healing of diseases, a redeemed life, love and compassion, satisfaction with good things, and a renewed youth (Psalm 103:1–5).

However, other people might feel that God is hiding in a time of distress. They experience a failing heart, a forgotten appetite, groaning, being skin and bones, tears, a concern about His wrath, and a sense of being thrown aside by God (Psalm 102:1–11).

These two Psalms sit side-by-side as equal parts of inspired Scripture. They refer to different historical circumstances and experiences of people. Both are instructive.

If Psalm 103 is written by King David, it does not reflect his feelings in all

circumstances. Psalm 102 is by an unknown writer, written in time of anguish.

It’s fitting to thank the Lord for blessings we receive. Unfortunately, however, life’s circumstances can crowd in on us in ways that the Canadian calendar (with Thanksgiving Day) can’t anticipate.

We need to bring what has our attention (joy or anguish) to the Lord in worship, for perspective and other help. The reading of Scripture can help in this.

Will people’s varied thoughts and circumstances be reflected within the public Scripture readings during our worship services? In doing so, more of those assembled might find that Scripture can better speak to them.

This Thanksgiving I’m thankful for many blessings—including Scripture’s range and T openness to reflect both joy and anguish. M Terry M. Smith

To move beyond silence

A

bout two-thirds of surveyed church and ministerial members say pacifism shouldn’t be a test of membership, one-third of members and one-fifth of ministerial members say a Christian can serve in the military, and a majority of both say a Christian can serve as a police officer

Through decisions shown by Scriptures chosen and topics unaddressed, silent ministers implicitly declare pacifism to be relatively unimportant.

(Evangelical Anabaptist Committee survey, 2005). What this means bears further study.

Pacifists and non-pacifists could talk about common ground and learn from each other (Proverbs 27:17), though often we don’t. Why? Perhaps a partial reason lies within our conference’s history, which includes silent and silenced ministers.

Silent ministers say they believe in pacifism, but rarely preach or teach it. They relate peace to a personal relationship with Christ or among the body of believers,

but not internationally. They assume their position of pacifism without promoting it thoughtfully. Through decisions shown by Scriptures chosen and topics unaddressed, silent ministers implicitly declare pacifism to be relatively unimportant.

Silenced ministers serve without being pacifists. They are to be humble, learn, and not speak against pacifism—in hope they’ll become pacifists. Yet silenced ministers don’t preach of what they are unconvinced; they avoid talking about war and peace.

Such silence isn’t consent, but it allows the EMC to maintain an appearance of wider agreement—until a survey is taken.

The effect of both silent and silenced ministers is less teaching of pacifism.

Should silent ministers speak up? Would silenced ministers be better served by open discussion? (Books are given to new pastors.

An orientation seminar is held occasionally, though pastoral changes happen regularly.)

Is silence achieving what we really want?

If discussion comes without a guarantee, silence holds even less promise.

Silence isn’t always golden. There is a T need to move beyond it. M Terry M. Smith

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

letter

coming events

10 principles are arguments for same-sex marriage I am writing in response to Dr. Al Hiebert’s viewpoint entitled Can we use facts to advocate heterosexual marriage? in the September 6 issue.

Here are a few facts taken from a recent U.S. census as seen on a recent CBS Sunday news program: There are 96 million unmarried and single people 23 million are divorced 12.2 million are single parents 33 percent of births are to unmarried women Why the sudden fervor regarding samesex marriage when marriage has been under “attack” for decades? Wouldn’t our energy and efforts be better served by focusing on problems like divorce, and keeping our existent marriages whole and committed? And how about working on giving support to all the single parents out there who struggle to make ends meet?

I agree that male/female gender-roles are important to all children; but let’s be real, the vast majority of children being raised by one gender come from single parent heterosexual households. What’s most important is that children are being raised in loving and committed families and that the role models we choose for our children influence them with the ideals of love and respect for others.

With a few minor changes, the “ten principles” that Dr. Hiebert includes in his opinion piece could equally apply to same-sex parent families (changes in parentheses): 1) Marriage is a personal union, intended for the whole of life (of both spouses), and 7) When marriage weakens, the

equality gap widens, as children suffer from the disadvantages of growing up in homes without committed (parents).

The remaining principles speak clearly on the importance of a committed and legally recognized bond between two spouses, be they homosexual or heterosexual.

If you ask me, I’d say these 10 principles are as much an argument for same-sex marriage. There is no empirical evidence that suggests that children raised in a same-sex parenting model are worse off than those in a heterosexual one and vice-versa.

If we are serious about ending the strife and suffering of children in our society, I believe we should focus on existing problems that tear apart our own “mother-father” parent families, and not project our own unproven fears on a model of marriage we are not familiar or comfortable with (yet).

Ron Reimer Elkins, Arkansas

Sunday School, Care Group Resource The Church that Christ Builds, by Dr. Arden Thiessen, is now available. A 13-lesson study on the Book of Ephesians, it’s designed for personal inspiration and group study. 144 pages. $8 plus postage. Order directly from Arden Thiessen at 204-3261662 or ardenths@ hotmail.com.

Region 8 Women’s Day

Uncluttering our lives: The call to simplicity October 28, 2006 Ridgewood EMC

A day for worship in music and listening to guest speaker Deanna Treadway. The day will also include a fashion show, MCC Thrift Store style. Plan to attend this special day and prepare yourself for the challenge of simplifying your life.

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

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 Consider the Lilies of the Field Eden Foundation fundraising banquet Winkler Bergthaler Mennonite Church Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 or 866-895-2919 edenfdn@valleycable.com 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 26 Consider the Lilies of the Field Eden Foundation fundraising banquet Steinbach Mennonite Church Steinbach, Man. 204-325-5355 or 866-895-2919 edenfdn@valleycable.com October 27 Consider the Lilies of the Field Eden Foundation fundraising banquet Bethel Mennonite Church Winnipeg, Man. 204-325-5355 or 866-895-2919 edenfdn@valleycable.com 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

t

h i fa

nt fro

Toward a defining centre

for Mennonites today:

Loving people the way Jesus did

Dr. Ron J. Sider

F

ew things are more tragically lacking in the North American church, so weakened by permissive relativism, than the clear biblical call of the early Anabaptists to think and to love according to God’s revealed Word—no matter what the rest of the world may say or do.

Sisters and brothers, we have what this society needs. But the Mennonite Church today is not nearly as effective in sharing the message as it could be. Why? Partly because a few of our intellectuals are no longer fully certainly about it, and because many of our people are no longer willing to live it.

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

Beyond flirting and embracing

Are our Mennonite intellectuals today as certain as the first apostles that Jesus the Carpenter and wandering advocate of peace and justice was God in the flesh at whose feet we fall in worship and unconditional obedience? Are we as convinced as Peter that there is no other name under heaven through whom lost sinners can be saved? How can we be passionate evangelists like the Early Church and first Anabaptists unless we are sure that the Carpenter from Nazareth is also true God and the only Saviour of the world?

How can we call our people to costly discipleship, whether in our sexual practices, or marriage covenants, or our economic relationships, or our peacemaking, if we think that clear biblical norms are not necessarily finally decisive for our lives today?

Are our leaders ready to issue a clarion call to the Church to turn away from secular and modern relativism, individualistic subjectivism, and to submit unconditionally to biblical revelation?

If a few of our thinkers have flirted with modern theological themes that undermine historic Christian belief, many of our people have embraced individualism and materialism. Many of our people live the same kind of materialistic lifestyles as do our neighbours.

Many of our people have adopted, often unconsciously, the culture’s individualism that undermines Christian community and accountability in the church. We Mennonites have largely abandoned our long tradition of church discipline.

Why? Partly because it runs directly counter to the individualistic selffulfillment that permeates this society.

Partly because we have confused compassion with relativism. The tragic result is that our sexual practices, divorce rates, and economic lifestyles year by year look more like the rest of North American society.

We are in danger of substituting ethnic identity, German culture, secularized peacemaking, and sophisticated ecclesiastical managerialism for the Christ-centred,

Spirit-filled, biblically-grounded costly discipleship and holistic mission of the Anabaptist Vision.

So what can we do?

A plea for four things

Jesus is the central issue. Jesus is the defining centre.

Together our leaders and people must confess and live the historic Christian confession that this Carpenter from Nazareth is true God and true man, the only way of salvation for all people everywhere. If we believe that, of course, we must live it and let Him be Lord of our marriages, our businesses, our sexual practices, our family budgets, and our politics. A new passionate love for Jesus as Lord and Saviour is the absolute, indispensable starting point.

Secondly, we must together renew our commitment as leaders and people to submit every thought and action to biblical revelation. This does not mean that we should become fundamentalists and ignore modern biblical scholarship or contemporary science. But it does mean that we reject the Enlightenment’s philosophical naturalism that permeates the methodology of so much of that scholarship. And does it mean that with our words and our lives we will declare that we intend by God’s grace to submit unconditionally to what the Bible clearly teaches about what we should believe and how we should live.

Third, we need desperately to recover the biblical understanding of the church as community. Mennonites over the centuries have had a good grasp of the New Testament teaching about the body of Christ as the gathered community of believing disciples.

We dare not let this vision be snatched away. To recover our practice, I believe, will require a new emphasis on small groups, renewed teaching on mutual accountability, and the courage to recover the practice of church discipline.

Fourth, our world desperately needs thousands and thousands of Christian congregations that truly love the whole person the way Jesus did.

Is your home congregation enthusiastically engaged in evangelism and social ministry? If not, do you have any question whether or not Jesus wants you to move in that direction?

Combining Word and Deed the way Jesus did, loving the whole person the way Jesus did really works.

I have been pleading for four things thus far: • A deeper passion and conviction that Jesus of Nazareth is true God, only Saviour, and perfect model; • A recovery of biblical authority; • A renewal of the church as a covenant community where we hold each other accountable to live out biblical faith; • A new commitment to combining evangelism and social ministry.

I know that may sound even scary. You know, I grew up thinking that Jesus did not want me to wear a tie, that He wanted

Is your home congregation enthusiastically engaged in evangelism and social ministry? Combining Word and Deed the way Jesus did, loving the whole person the way Jesus did really works.

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

Christianity as servanthood would transform our evangelism and reshape our call for renewed ethical standards in church and society. Servant evangelists who minister to all the needs of people have integrity when they also invite them to accept the only Saviour of the world. me to part my hair in the middle. I know about legalism. In our past, we have floundered in wrong-headed legalism and misguided narrowness in our desire to be a covenant community with mutual accountability and church discipline.

Beyond permissiveness and legalism

Some of you may fear that my call to turn away from individualism and relativism, and to submit wholeheartedly to revealed ethical standards and mutual accountability will produce just another wrenching chapter in authoritarian leadership and harsh legalism. I understand that concern. I am as opposed to that as anyone. But I don’t think that the only two options are a permissive fellowship with no ethical standards or legalistic narrowness.

If we understand the centrality of servanthood in Christian faith, we can find a third way. Dream with me about the way Christianity as servanthood would transform our evangelism and reshape our call for renewed ethical standards in church and society.

The evangelism of marauding medieval crusaders and conquering colonial armies has no integrity. But servant evangelists who humbly, sacrificially, minister to all the needs of people of other faiths do have integrity when they also invite them to accept the only Saviour of the world.

Thank God that there were Spanish missionaries who, even at great danger and sacrifice, protested against the slaughter of Latin American Indians. Thank God there

were evangelical students of evangelist Charles Finney in the 19th century who denounced the U.S. government’s broken treaties with Indians as they gently invited those same Native Americans to accept their Lord and Saviour. Let’s be servant evangelists who boldly share our faith as we compassionately minister to human need.

We must return to the longstanding Christian tradition that ethical principles are universally binding. Why? Because they are grounded in the very nature of reality.

Christians must issue a ringing call, first to the church and then to the larger society, to turn away from destructive, individualistic relativism and return to the ethical standards implanted by the Creator and revealed in Scripture.

An appeal through servanthood

How we make this appeal, however, is crucial. Some Christian moral crusades—even when they are right—are so harsh, legalistic, and unloving that they cannot be heard. Servanthood is the key. It’s the pastor who walks with couples, pleading with them not to give up on their marriage. It’s the church who welcomes separated spouses and promises to teach life-long marriage covenant with integrity. It’s the congregation that embraces pregnant, unmarried teenagers while showing God’s sexual purity and respect for life.

Jesus’ gospel is what our world needs. Biblical, ethical standards are what our broken society longs for, even without knowing it. But they will never be able to hear our message unless we share it as servants.

Jesus must be at the centre of all that we think and do. It’s Jesus we worship. It’s Jesus we seek to follow in obedience and T servanthood. 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. esa-online.org). Sider is married and has grown children. This article is condensed from a convention message (based on his notes).

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

with our missionaries Philippines

Questions about Honest Hands

What sort of follow-through happens with graduates, and is ACTION involved elsewhere in street children ministry?

Ward and Janine Parkinson and family

The Board of Leadership and Outreach is pleased to announce the appointment of Ward Parkinson as Canadian Church Planting Coordinator for EMC. Ward grew up in Montreal and Ottawa where he received his primary education. He came to Manitoba to study at Winnipeg Bible College (now Providence College). It is here that he met his wife Janine. They have four children, ages 10 to 18. They have lived in Morris, Man., for the last 19 years, where Ward first served as youth pastor, then as senior pastor at Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC). He has also continued his studies at Providence Seminary on a part-time basis, working towards the completion of a Master of Divinity degree.

Both the Church Planting Coordinator and the Conference Pastor now work under the Board of Leadership and Outreach. This will allow for a more integrated ministry to our Canadian Churches, with a view to growing healthy churches that will be faithful in evangelism, community service, leadership development and the planting of new churches.

Ward will also be assisted in his work by a newly organized Church Planting Task Force. While Ward will be initiating contacts with our present church plants, all our church leaders are invited to contact Ward about evangelism and church planting concerns, or simply to get acquainted.

Pray for Ward and Janine as they make the transition from local church ministry to conference ministry.

Board of Leadership and Outreach

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

Honest Hands staff does some follow up as we are able, but the primary responsibility is on the church or Christian agency. We only take young men who are “sent” or recommended by a church or Christian group that works with street kids.

We could take young guys straight from the street, but how to connect them to a church? We could take them in 24/7 for a full year or so, but after that, how would they get involved with a church? So they stay with us Monday to Friday. On weekends the students go home and serve in their churches, and come back with a report form signed by their pastor. We are working hard to partner with local Filipino evangelical churches.

ACTION Philippines has a Street Impact Team located in Manila that is very involved with camping ministries for street kids and families. They also are doing a lot of networking and training for Filipino churches who want to start or improve their street children ministry.

ACTION also does street children ministry in Cambodia, India, Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, Zambia, and Uganda.

ACTION Philippine’s website is a good source of information on ministry to street children and working with the urban poor (www.actionph.org), or take a look at the Honest Hands website (www.honesthands.org) to get a sense of what our ministry is all about.

Are other churches or missions involved in street children ministry?

Yes, there is a growing movement in the Philippines to work with and

focus on the extremely poor and street children. There are at least 50,000 street children in Manila, and many more in other cities in the Philippines. Without the partnership of Filipino churches and Christians, the task is way too big for foreign missionaries. We need to work together!

If you are interested in the big picture, the VIVA network is working hard at connecting people around the world who work with street children (www.viva. org). They would be a great resource for EMC missionaries who might be on the field doing other ministries, but are wondering how to help street children in their neighbourhood.

VIVA has seen the benefit of connecting missionaries and churches who might be working in close proximity or with similar groups of kids, but don’t even know about each other. It is important to work in partnership with other Christians as we face the global challenge of street children and the urban poor. They need Jesus!

Carl Loewen

Carl and Lisa Loewen (Pleasant Valley) are involved with Honest Hands Discipleship Home, a ministry to street children in the Philippines with Action International Ministries.

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.

7

Winnipeg, Man.

Inner city and church need each other

“For a poor person, everything is terrible illness, humiliation and shame…

[W]e depend on everyone. No one needs us.” This is how poverty is described by a person from Moldova, in Europe. The statement fits the experience of many residents of North End Winnipeg.

In the inner city, the Christian community is revolutionary good news: “We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others” (Romans 12:5). In Christ’s body, inner city communities are needed!

North End Community Church (NECC) seeks to be a community where inner city Christians know they belong and are needed. We’re a church with people, rather than doing church for people. We need each other and can only be healthy by contributing gifts God has given us.

Five years ago we moved into the North End. NECC has been fellowshipping for four years. Our church is small.

Ethnically, we’re mixed, with about half being Aboriginal. We worship on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in the Inner City Youth Alive building. Attendance is 10 to 15 people.

God is moving in youths’ lives. Half of the church is teenagers who take ownership in the church. These teens are also involved at Inner City Youth Alive. It’s exciting to see youth hungering for truth and community and growing more mature in Christ. We have baptized five youth and young adults. Many teens are involved in summer missions: Camp counselling, Native ministry outreach, and missions exposure trips. We have missionaries coming from the inner city!

NECC has a heart to reach our community with Jesus’ love. Believers put on outreach events. We held Easter Resurrection Celebration where neighbourhood people joined us for lunch

Easter sunrise service

and a worship service. Last September, together with ICYA, we held a block party.

About 400 people came out for kids’ activities, free food, a Christian rapper, and testimonies from local believers. At Christmastime the church invited their families or friends for a supper. These events help us start relationships and help neighbours become aware of NECC. Church people are taking responsibility as they use their gifts. Solomon Beaulieu serves as our music leader. He also leads monthly youth worship nights, hoping to train youth to play in the worship band.

Janet Blatz, an SBC grad, is starting a children’s Sunday school. Sol and Janet are full-time missionaries at Inner City Youth Alive.

Amie and I are committed to developing strong local leadership in this church.

Over the past half year, I have worked with The Builders Team, an important step towards long-term leadership.

I am working with several inner city pastors and ministry leaders to start the School of Urban Leadership (SOUL). SOUL seeks to equip urban church leaders by providing theo-

logical training that is affordable, accessible, and culturally relevant. We believe that urban Christians are God’s instruments to bring healing and redemption to our broken communities.

God is on the move, but there are constant obstacles to discourage and divide us. Pray for strength and health, and for balance in ministry and family life. Pray for encouragement, wisdom and focus. Pray that the Builders Team grows in unity and maturity. Pray for believers who struggle with physical health, addictions, family problems, and abuse.

Pray that youth would be protected from people and pressures that could throw them off course. Ask God to help the church support and nurture these youth.

Andrew Reimer Andrew (Steinbach EMC) and Amie Reimer lead a church plant in Winnipeg’s North End. It’s a partnership of EMC, CMC, EMMC, and Inner City Youth Alive.

Community block party

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

with our churches

Pastor Edwin and Lillian missed Taber, Alta.: We recently had to bid a farewell to our pastoral couple that we have come to know and love. Pastor Edwin Plett and his wife Lillian were with us for a number of years, helped us grow spiritually, and also taught us how to better run a church, for which we are eternally grateful.

On July 23 we had a farewell potluck for Edwin and Lillian, followed by a short program where everyone was given an opportunity to reminisce about our time spent with them.

As part of our farewell, Edwin was given a grandfather clock and Lillian was given a gift certificate to her favorite boutique. Edwin had once mentioned

that he would love a grandfather clock, straight and, if it was not, he would take but that he would have to wait a long the time to straighten it. We have many time to get one. As a church we were more fond memories of our retired always impressed with how Edwin pastoral couple and wish them only the always knew the answer or always had best as they start their next journey. some sort of verbal input; however, as Tina Dyck he stared at the clock it was one of the few times he was left speechless.

Our first Sunday without Edwin and Lillian felt empty, like a part of us was missing.

As Peter Wall got up on stage to lead the worship service, he straightened the pulpit a little and then proceeded to mention that, were Pastor Plett here, he was sure that Edwin would have given the Parent-child dedication: Peter and Susie Fehr with son Brian, Peter and pulpit one more nudge.

Anna Wall with son Ezra, George and Margaret Sawatzky with son Demitri, We lovingly remember John and Annie Neufeld with daughter Teresa, Cornie and Lorretta Klassen how Pastor Edwin liked the with daughter Xarah, Abe and Susie Fehr with son Cody, Henry and Anna pulpit to be centred and Klassen with daughter Rachel.

Wonderful summer, baptism

Lillian and Edwin hold their farewell cake.

Lillian and Edwin stand by their grandfather clock.

Pansy, Man.: Didn’t we have a wonderful summer?

It was one of the best ever, considering the weather, absence of mosquitoes and such, don’t you think?

For our church, in spite of the lower-key summer schedule, we experienced the usual highlights. There was a great picnic in June, as well as a good grad party, for one. There was VBS involvement in July. The last couple of years we have appreciated working within the Grunthal and area VBS program, which tends to be big, fun, and powerful.

The biggest thing, no doubt, was again the Jason Preteau, Shelley Goertzen, and Dustin Hiebert baptism. On August 6, Dustin Hiebert, Shelley Goertzen and Jason Preteau chose to visitor commented, “with a little bit of make their stand as followers of Jesus heaven thrown in.”

Shelley, Dustin, and Jason, we are Christ. Although the creek water had run low and needed some refilling, proud of you and wish you a great faith the luscious green site just west of journey, now and always.

Betty Barkman the proved to be an excellent second sanctuary. “Like Bible times,” one

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

Many changes and hardships Leamington, Ont.: The church here in Leamington has seen a year of many changes and hardships. Yet, throughout everything that we have faced, we have seen God’s blessings and His faithfulness upon us as a congregation.

We were fortunate to have Ernest and Elsie Funk join our congregation as interim pastoral couple from September 2005 to the end of January 2006. We learned much about love, healing, and forgiveness in the short time that we had Ernest and Elsie with us. We said goodbye to them at an appreciation farewell faspa (light supper) on January 29 of this year.

LEMC is blessed with the pitterpatter of many little feet. With children come parent-child dedications, and on November 20 and 27 we shared in two dedication services.

February saw the arrival of our new pastoral couple Bill and Helen Friesen, along with three of their children, Kurtis, Shayna, and Sabrina. (Kevin will join them in June, after graduating from high school in Aylmer, Ont.) Their installation service was held April 2 and we were pleased to have conference pastor David Thiessen with us to share in the service.

To have Bill and Helen Friesen take on the role as senior pastoral couple has been a real highlight for us.

Another highlight for us has been, and still is, the building addition. For years we have been in need of Sunday school rooms, offices, a gym-fellowship hall, and a bigger kitchen. This year saw most of this come to completion.

We will continue to work on getting the kitchen and hall completed. However, the addition has seen much use already, and we look forward to being able to use it on many more occasions.

Tina Friesen wrote the following poem for the building dedication, which was on May 8:

Abe and Polina Klassen with Mitchell and interim pastoral couple Elsie and Ernest Funk.

10

Leamington EMC’s building addition

November 20 baby dedication: Pastor Ernest and Elsie Funk, Corny and Tina Neufeld with Nathan, Frank and Eva Fast with Julia, Pete and Linda Neufeld with Amber, Corny and Sue Friesen with Camryn, John and Anna Wiebe with Lilyanna, Henry and Marina Peters with Braden, John and Mary Fast with Alexia, Frank and Agatha Dyck with Jordan.

1 Samuel 7:12: “Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, thus far has the Lord helped us.”

LEMC We had been meeting at the U.M.E.I. dome, Then God blessed our faith family with a new home.

With God’s grace this perfect spot was found.

Ebenezer was the theme the day we broke ground.

We had all agreed as we celebrated that day, That God had, indeed, faithfully guided the way.

He has continued to do so, through the years.

He has remained here and witnesses all our joys and our tears.

He has been guiding as our faith family grew.

He has been here with us as our building grew too.

He answered our prayers; His guidance was in the plans, He knows all the details; He’s familiar with the hardworking hands.

He is here as we dedicate this addition today, “Thus far has the Lord helped us.” Thank you, Lord, we pray.

Poet: Tina Friesen Reporter: Marlene Froese

births SCHMITT – to Jake and Annie Schmitt of Leamington, Ont., a son, Joshua Jacob.

DYCK – to Ben and Anna Dueck of Kingsville, Ont., a son, Orrin Ray. WIEBE – to Jake and Lisa Wiebe of Leamington, Ont., a son, Landon, on May 3, 2005.

KRAHN – to Franz and Anna Krahn of Leamington, Ont., a son, Jordan Cornelius, on May 7, 2005.

DYCK – to Frank and Agatha Dyck of Cottom, Ont., a son, Jordan Leeroy, on August 17, 2005.

LOEWEN – to Brent and Delphine Loewen of Arborg, Man., a son, Austin Tyler, on March 1, 2006.

HEIDE – to Jake and Nancy Heide of Leamington, Ont., a son, Cody James, on April 11, 2006.

MARTENS – to Ben and Judy Martens of Leamington, Ont., a daughter, Jessica, on April 17, 2006.

REMPEL – to Ernest and Carissa Rempel of Arborg, Man., a daughter, Alliana Kaelie Carissa, on August 31, 2006.

GUENTHER – to Corny and Margaret Guenther of Arborg, Man., a son, Oscar Pedro, on September 12, 2006.

FRIESEN – to Gil and Kara Friesen of Grunthal, Man., a daughter, Georgia Lynn Jade, on September 13, 2006.

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

Mount Salem has busy summer Mount Salem, Ont.: Greetings from Mount Salem! Summer has come and is almost gone. As is normal with summer, we’ve had our share of busyness.

In May we celebrated Mother’s Day. All mothers were called up and a special prayer was held for them. Children then surprised us with flowers. We also enjoyed a mother-daughter pizza night. On Father’s Day the dads were given special treatment.

They were called forward, prayed over, and presented with socks by the youth.

On July 7–9 we had our annual church camp. The Lord blessed us with beautiful weather. The committee did a wonderful job planning activities. A volleyball tournament had good participation, even though the weather was hot.

Children tested their arm strength while hanging onto a zip line. And what would camp be like without a sack race for them?

Skills were tested in a fire-making competition. Teams of two were given a log, an axe, and a lighter in a race to make a fire and get their tin of water to the boiling point. Chocolate bars were awarded to George Dyck and Ben Sawatzky, the winners.

Saturday night we watched as teams made boats out of cardboard boxes and duct tape. Amazingly, two of the four boats made it across the pond with an occupant in it. Abe Klassen was declared the winner of this race.

The food committee prepared awesome food. Thank you!

Our lay ministers and pastor presented devotionals. Jim Froese challenged us to be risk-takers for Jesus. Will Enns shared from his personal journals. He went through a period where he questioned where God was. He came to the conclusion that God is always there, even when we can’t feel His presence.

Pastor Gerhard Dyck, in response to Will, shared from Habakkuk 3:1–2 and Revelation 4:1–2. Regardless of what is happening around us—how out of control everything seems—God is still on the throne. He is still in control. You can always depend on Him. Maria Dyck

Abe Klassen poses with his winning craft and supporters.

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

Volleyball was enjoyed during Mount Salem’s church camp July 7–9.

The race is on!

Steinbach EMC holds retreat Steinbach EMC (Man.): Big oaks from little acorns grow could well describe the beginnings which culminated in a church retreat where some 170 persons took part on the weekend of September 8–10.

The idea of a retreat was hatched around a table at a church function back in February—perhaps a fund raiser. A committee was formed and it culminated in the first church-wide retreat of Steinbach EMC. The retreat site was Wilderness Edge Retreat and Conference Centre at Pinawa, Man. The following short report, which appeared in our

Alfred Reimer, 93, was the oldest retreat participant; Jericho Derksen (with father Chris), two months old, was the youngest.

Playing games

Sunday church bulletin, describes it well: “One hundred seventy people came out to enjoy the church retreat last weekend at Wilderness Edge. There were people everywhere—playing volleyball, biking, hiking, doing puzzles, enjoying the hot tubs, going on a hayride, canoeing, sewing, doing crafts, etc. The dining hall hummed with visiting over fabulous meals. There were times of worship over an evening fireside sing-song and a service Sunday morning.”

Checkout was on Sunday morning.

Weather was beautiful all the way through.

Dave K. Schellenberg

11

65 years later the decision stands Rev. John K. Reimer, now 87, has been willing to serve Christ and His Church, to reach out to people of various cultures.

His grandson Dustin Pfeifer called him his hero (The Messenger, June 11, 1997).

Why? During World War Two, Reimer became a Conscientious Objector.

In 1941 Reimer, likely 22, appeared before a judge in Ste. Anne, he said to me in an interview. He was asked only a few questions. Compared to some applicants, he didn’t have a “hard time.”

Perhaps the judge saw he was speaking out of a personal conviction, “besides being the member of a Mennonite church.”

From July to November he served in a C.O. camp at Riding Mountain National Park. Then he resumed studies at Steinbach Bible Institute for two years. He worked in a logging camp near Hudson Bay, Sask., and then on a farm near Neepawa, Man. Required to do “essential” work, he was hired by a lumber company in Winnipeg and then dismissed after “half a day” because he was a C.O. He shifted to shoveling coal. From his earnings $25 per month went to the Red Cross.

He became a Christian as a teenager and was convinced he should be a C.O. He “gathered from Scripture that we were to love our enemies, and that meant not going to war.” The war started “and we were put to the test as young men.”

He wonders how prepared the Mennonite church was for the test posed

by World War Two. It was only about 20 years since the last world war and it was on people’s minds; organization and dialoging with government had to happen.

Would he do the same today? The government’s “requirements and conditions might be different now than they were then,” he replies, “but I would still hold to my C.O. stance. That hasn’t changed.”

During his time in Kansas, the Vietnam War was on. He was asked occasionally to preach on nonresistance; young men were facing the draft. Rev. Reimer said he has never questioned his pacifist stance.

From his limited observation, “very little” today is said “publicly” about objection to war. More was likely said when World War Two was fresh on people’s minds.

He’s unsure how well prepared

12

are today’s young people to make a decision. Since objection to war is in the EMC constitution and may be taught in baptismal instruction, “one would hope” young people would object today, but it’s “hard to say.”

What would help young people to be C.O.s today? It “would be talked about; it would be preached,” he replies.

What would he want young people today to understand about his decision of 65 years ago? “Well, that as Christians we need to live by the Word of God,” he says.

Terry M. Smith

Rev. John K. Reimer’s history 1941 1943 1945 1946–1955 1950 1955–1964 1964–1969 1969–1977

1977-1985 1985-1986

Rev. John K. Reimer

objected to war graduated, Steinbach Bible Institute married Leona served under Western Gospel Mission ordained as a minister Pastor, Aberdeen (Winnipeg) Pastor, Meade, Kansas First Executive Secretary, Board of Missions Pastor, Wymark Pastor, Tres Palmas, Paraguay Interim pastor, Anola Deacon, Steinbach EMC

1987-1988 1989-1994 five children 12 grandchildren four great-grandchildren

War and the C.0.: A history conference During the Second World War, over 10,000 Canadians sought alternatives to military service. Their story remains virtually untold. A history conference on War and the CO will be held on October 20–21, 2006, at the University of Winnipeg, highlighting Canadian experiences.

Manitoba had more COs than any other province, totally over 3,000 men, who worked in hospitals, farms, parks, industry, and in other provinces. From a day’s wage men received 50 cents, and the rest went to the Red Cross.

John Bergen was a teacher in Homewood, Man. In 1943 he declared himself a C.O. His teaching certificate was revoked, which happened to numerous teachers. Bergen served as a C.O. in the dental corps.

In 1946 Bergen’s certificate was reinstated and he went on to a long career. In 1975 Bergen revisited the issue. The Manitoba Department of Education replied, “In view of the fact that Mr. Bergen did serve his country

during the war, that society’s attitudes have changed vastly in the last thirty years, and that Mr. Bergen’s record as a certified teacher was impeachable, I wish to recommend to you that the cancellation of Mr. Bergen’s certificate be expunged from the record and that retroactively he be considered certified during the period of cancellation.”

The conference features speakers from various backgrounds and provinces. People ask, “What is the right response today to war and violence?” All sessions are free. Selected lectures will be published in the Journal of Mennonite Studies.

The conference is hosted by the Chair of Mennonite Studies, U. of W.; and sponsored by historical societies, including the Mennonite Historical Society of Canada, of which EMC is a part.

Visit www.alternativeservice.ca or www. uwinnipeg.ca/academic/as/mennstudies.

MHSC

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

HULDA REIMER PLETT 1923–2006

Our dearly beloved sister and much loved aunt and great aunt, Taunte Hullie, has passed from this life into the next.

We believe the angels are rejoicing and welcoming her along this journey into the presence of her Saviour. How life will continue on in heaven is a mystery.

We long to hear just one word from her.

I believe she would tell us, “Don’t cry for me now. I am freed from all pain and loneliness.” We are looking forward to meeting her again someday.

A beautiful baby girl was born on September 9, 1923, to Cornelius and Susanna Plett. This was their third child, and she charmed them with her cute baby ways. Hulda always liked to tell the story of how, when she was just three months old, she couldn’t be nursed by Mom anymore and had to eat adult food off the table. That probably laid the foundation for her to become the independent, optimistic, decisive person she was all her life.

Hulda never married but she had many children. For 32 years she was a teacher and carved out a career for herself, and touched many lives as she taught in different communities in southern Manitoba. She didn’t teach only the three R’s—reading, writing, and arithmetic—but engaged lovingly and compassionately in the child’s whole life. In her older life she looked back on all these experiences as a teacher and continued to find enjoyment relating interesting anecdotes of her children.

Her nephews and nieces were like her own! She showered them with devotion, doted on them with her attention, bought them gifts, and played with them. As they grew up, she continued to follow all their ventures with keen interest and with prayer. Hulda became the matriarch of our family after Mom passed away.

She was the one who pulled us together for many family times. Going to her place at the Prairie Rose Apartments was like going home. We could go there

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

anytime and always be assured of a hearty welcome. In her warm-hearted way she’d insist on serving tea or coffee and a snack, no matter how short the visit.

We’d reminisce about the many trips she had taken with different family members.

The countless photo albums, where she carefully documented these memorable times, were enjoyed by us all. When too much time elapsed between visits, she’d initiate coffee times.

Hulda led an active, full life to the end. The weekly volunteer work at Steinbach’s MCC Thrift Store was a commitment she took seriously. Meeting with fellow apartment residents in the gazebo, chatting, and snacking was most enjoyable for her. She was an avid Scrabble player, had a passion for reading, and enjoyed the glowing colours of the sunsets from her window.

Hulda had a deep faith in God, was baptized as a teenager, and became a member of the Kleine Gemeinde (now EMC). In her older age she would frequently comment that she wished she would die quickly and not linger on in sickness. We thank God together with her that this request was granted. She was taken to the hospital by ambulance on Monday morning, and she died surrounded by her family the next day, on May 16, 2006.

Hulda will be fondly remembered by her four sisters, Ellen Plett of Wawanesa, Dora Friesen of Landmark, Adina Kornelsen of Winnipeg, Madeleine (Johnny) Reimer of Landmark; two brothers, Archie (Ruby) of Landmark and Henry (Anna) of Landmark; two foster brothers, Delbert (Joy) Dueck and Calvin Beauchamp and family; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Cornelius and Susanna Plett; a four-yearold sister, Esther, and two siblings in infancy, Maria and David; three brothersin-law, John Plett, Diedrich Friesen and Alvin Kornelsen; and two nephews, Garry Plett and Gord Tremeer.

Her Family

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.

In Memory of

OTTO PLETT January 13, 1934–October 5, 2005 Otto, you were so sick. It was so hard to see you suffer and fade away. A cure seemed not to be. Then Jesus came and said, “Well done my faithful child. I’ll take you to my heavenly home forever to bloom in the Master’s bouquet.”

I miss you so much.

Wife Frieda Plett

Food for Fun and Fellowship is back!

Due to popular demand, Food for Fun and Fellowship will be printed once more. Orders received by midNovember should get to you in time for Christmas baking (and giving), so don’t delay. Funds raised go to EMC missions.

Copies are available at the EMC office in Steinbach, or at Hull’s Family Bookstore. It is more cost-effective to send a shipment of books than individually, so you may wish to coordinate your orders. For any questions or more information, please do not hesitate to contact Melanie Frayle at 204-355-4060.

Mail order forms to Melanie at: Box 8, Grp. 18, RR 1 Steinbach, MB R5G 1L9 Please send ___ copies of Food for Fun and Fellowship to: _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ____ cookbooks at $16.00 each

$________

add shipping and handling rates as below

$________

TOTAL ENCLOSED

$________

1 book to Manitoba and western provinces $ 8.50 2–5 books to above provinces $10.50 1 book to Ontario and eastern provinces $10.25 2–5 books to above provinces $12.25 For orders larger than 5, phone (204) 355-4060.

13

LEVI BRANDT 1927–2006

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather Levi Brandt on April 26, 2006, at the St. Boniface Hospital.

Dad was born on June 26, 1927, on a farm three miles southeast of Rosenort, Man. He was the fourth of 11 children born to Agnes and Peter U. Brandt. He completed grade school up to grade eight at the Clover Plains School and later received his General Equivalency Diploma.

At age 21 Dad was baptized in the Rosenort Kleine Gemeinde Church (now Rosenort EMC). Mom and Dad were married on November 19, 1950, and attended the EMC ever since. Dad’s life was a testament of his deep faith in Christ.

At age 21 Dad started his first business selling fuel and farm products. He continued this for 30 years. In 1978 he

BERNHARD (BEN) W. DYCK 1934–2006

Bernhard (Ben) W. Dyck passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2006, at the Cypress Regional Hospital, Swift Current, Sask.

Dad battled cancer with much courage and a great attitude for the past two years.

During this time he was wonderfully cared for by his wife Nellie, of 49 years.

Dad was born on July 28, 1934, in Neuhoffnung, Sask., (west of Wymark).

He spent all of his life farming in the Swift Current area. After he was married to Nellie Froese in 1956, the two of them farmed rental property in the Simmie area.

In 1960 they purchased their homestead farm near Rosenhof, Sask.

Dad was active in the community,

14

founded Rosenort Agro, selling fertilizer and farming chemicals.

Dad was involved in many areas of the community through volunteer work and committees. He served on the school board, the board of directors at the Rosenort Credit Union, the EMC finance and trustee board, mission board, ushering committee, MDS board, and the Rosenort Housing board.

He never sought recognition or praise for his work; he had an unselfish and humble attitude in everything he did. Dad was honoured in 2004 for his service in the community with an award from the Rural Municipality of Morris.

Dad’s volunteer work in the community extended far beyond official boards and committees. He helped countless people with land title transfers, and estate papers, as well as more immediate concerns. If there was a need in the community, he would always be there to lend a hand; he had a very hard time saying no to anybody who needed his help.

Dad devoted much of his life to his family. He cared for his dear wife, children, and grandchildren, and had a deep concern for both the spiritual well being and practical needs of his family. His deep pride in his children and grandchildren was evident in his support of sporting events, music, art, and other activities. He was his family’s biggest and most loyal fan.

Dad found time in his retirement

to pursue many hobbies and interests other than work. Dad’s friends were very important to him and he loved his golf games with family and friends. His love for people was evident no matter where he went, and he had the gift of finding a connection with anybody he met, regardless of age.

It is impossible to sum up the mark that Dad’s life has left on all those who were part of it. He was a man of integrity, a man of God, and he will be deeply missed by us all.

Levi is survived by his loving wife of 55 and a half years, Brunhilda; his children, Lucille (Elmer) Eidse, Rudy (Joanne) Brandt, Rhonda (Lloyd) Friesen, Charles (Luella) Brandt, Phyllis (Jim) Kehler, Paulette (Rob) Penner, and Russell Brandt; his grandchildren, Rebecca, Loralie, Malcolm, Vanessa, Jana, Noelani (Eidse), Justin, Joel and fiancé Sara, Kevin (Brandt), Stephanie, Joe and Brooke, Chantelle, Jeremy (Friesen), Clinton, Lindsay and fiancé Jared, Michael (Brandt), Matthew, Braden (Kehler), Joshua, Jordan, Madison (Penner); as well as his brothers and sisters, John (Katie), Elizabeth, Helen, (Bill), Eddie (Violet), Paul (Myrtle), Alice (Ed), Loreen (Jack), and Leona (Henry).

Levi was predeceased by his parents Agnes and Peter U. Brandt, a sister Justina, an infant brother Benny, and brother-inlaw Pete B. Loewen.

His Family

serving faithfully in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference Church in Chortitz, and was also on the local Home and School board. Dad enjoyed being involved on committees and boards, such as MCC, Farmer’s Market, McKerracher Support Services, and various church and missionary teams.

In 1995, after retiring from farming, Dad became very active in helping Mom with her weekly farmer’s market. Mom and Dad thoroughly enjoyed working together to make this little business venture a success.

They continued this venture until 2004, when Dad was diagnosed with cancer and they moved into a condo in Swift Current.

Dad enjoyed traveling, including numerous international trips, sight seeing, and curling. At a younger age, he was a speedster and enjoyed softball and hockey. In his later years, Dad spent considerable time on a senior recreational curling team and watching hockey and curling on television.

Dad leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Nellie; their children Daniel and Valerie of Steinbach, Man.; Fred and Karen of Minneapolis, Minn.; Eunice and Mark Dean of Calgary; Alta.; Thomas and Marina of Swift Current, Sask.; Valerie

and Don Doerksen of Niverville, Man.; Jeff of Steinbach, Man.; and grandchildren Natalie and Lance Barkman, Justin Dyck, Tory Dyck, Braydon Dyck, Jordan Dyck, Shania Doerksen, Keenan Doerksen, Brooklyn Doerksen, and Nicole Dyck.

He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Jake and Katie Dyck, Marie Carson, Tina and John Krahn, Pete and Clara Dyck, Margaret Dyck, sister-in-law Margaret Dyck; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Dad was predeceased by his parents Jacob and Maria Dyck, his brother John, and his brother-in-law Cliff Carson.

A priority of Dad’s was celebrating the abundant life he received when he accepted God’s gift of eternal life through faith in His Son, Jesus.

A funeral service was held on July 12, 2006, at Cornerstone Fellowship Church in Swift Current, Sask., with interment at the Wymark EMC Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Cypress Bible Camp, Box 786, Maple Creek, SK S0N 1N0, or to Child Evangelism Fellowship, 74 Marquis Crescent, Regina, SK S4S 6J9.

His Family

THE MESSENGER October 4, 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.

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 (204-326-6401).

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

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

Responsibilities: Serve as Executive Secretary for the Board of Missions, General Board, and Board of Trustees; 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 204-326-6401, 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.

THE MESSENGER October 4, 2006

A strong sense of God’s call and a love for people are required. Direct inquiries to David Pashe, 204-730-0409, e-mail: pashed@westman. wave.ca; or to Len Barkman, 204-326-6401, email: emclen@mts.net.

THE EVANGELICAL Mennonite Mission Conference has an opening for a permanent parttime accountant-business administrator in its Winnipeg, Man., office (FTE 50–60 percent, with flexible work arrangements). This involves preparing accounting records, financial reporting and statements, budget preparation and income tax reporting, banking and cash transfers, administration and coordination of employee benefit plans, administrative and office support activities.

The person should have experience as an accountant working with computerized records and interpersonal skills in a small office team setting; an asset is a broad knowledge of non-profit income tax matters.

EMMC holds to the Anabaptist-peace position with member churches in Canada, USA, Mexico and Belize (www.emmc.ca).

Submit your confidential application/resume

by October 31, 2006, to The Moderator, EMMC, Box 52059, Niakwa PO, Winnipeg, MB R2M 5P9.

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 403-2756935 or Sheila Froese at 403-932-4093.

ENDEAVOUR FELLOWSHIP Chapel in eastcentral Saskatchewan, with a congregation of about 50, is currently looking for a pastor.

Contact Tom Treen (Elders’ Chairman) at 306547-3383 or tdpromise@sasktel.net.

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. This 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.

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 1-800241-8111. 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 fi ll certain months of the year. If you have these skills and some time to give, give MDS a call.



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.

Speaker: Marv Penner, Professor at Briercrest

15

a womanʼs journey of faith Betty Koop

Elsie and the epidemic

E

lsie picked up a broom and quickly swept up the worst of the debris as she entered the polio ward. Her shift as housekeeping aide was done for the day, and she had done it thoroughly, but by the time she came back to volunteer, clean up was needed again. An over-busy nurse smiled at Elsie as she hurried by. “That’s so good of you,” she said. “It looks so much better.”

With the large number of polio patients flooding the wards of the King George hospital (hospital for communicable diseases) in Winnipeg in the early 1950s epidemic, the staff was almost overwhelmed.

Volunteers came to help with placing foments on the paralyzed limbs of the patients.

Foments were woolen bandages, heated to high temperatures in hot water. These were placed on the patients’ backs and limbs to try to counter the atrophying of muscles ravaged by this disease.

to leave her three little children and was now existing in an iron lung. Her only view of the world was via the mirror attached at an angle above her head.

A patient in another room was rushed to hospital with polio soon after his wedding date was set. His fiancée came to see him every day, faithful in her love, even though the iron lung was his only hope for survival.

A third iron lung contained a man who had recently made his peace with God and now looked for opportunities to share God’s love with others.

Since Elsie was not a trained nurse, she could not do the foments on patients in the iron lungs. However, some whose breathing had improved were on rocking beds which facilitated the person’s breathing. Here she could apply the hot cloths, especially prior to physiotherapy when the muscles were stretched and exercised to try to renew them. She noticed that it was “The Christian has the practical a painful process, both the foments and the exercising, vision to see what needs to be but hoped it would be worth done, and the loving heart to do it.” it in the end if the patient Viruses that attack the brain could walk again. and spinal cord cause polio, in Elsie was always aware, many cases causing paralysis. whether on her regular When muscles that control the shift or volunteering, that lungs are attacked, the person her calling was to do her cannot breathe. These patients work thoroughly and well. were placed into iron lungs to Occasionally she could say a Margaret Dueck in iron lung, 1955, King George Hospital, Winnipeg. few words. Both were ways of keep them alive. (photo courtesy of Marion Warkentin) sharing the love of Christ.

Nurse unknown.

The iron lung was a round tank encasing the patient’s entire body, with only the head She realized that working in this hospital could be protruding, the neck being enclosed by a snug rubber dangerous. If you caught polio, there was no cure, collar. A pump changed the amount and pressure of although researchers were working desperately to find the air within the tank, forcing the lungs to inhale and what caused the disease, and what could be done to exhale. prevent it. But she had a job to do and did it.

Elsie remembered how traumatic had been her Elsie is not one specific person, but rather a first sight of room after room filled with patients in composite of the many young women who worked so whooshing iron lungs. Her job was to clean around these faithfully and cheerfully in the background during those machines, being super careful not to unplug one by difficult times of the 1950s polio epidemic. Their lives accident. Suffocation could result. demonstrated the truth of William Barclay’s statement: Even though her heart ached for the patients, she “The Christian has the practical vision to see what tried to be cheerful and friendly as she worked. needs to be done, and the loving heart to do it” (Day by T In one room, the patient was a young mother who had Day with William Barclay, 2003, p. 276). M

PAGE 16

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