The Messenger Vol. 44 No. 18 October 18, 2006

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 44 NUMBER 18 OCTOBER 18, 2006

The Worship Service:

What is its Purpose?

The

Messenger

EDITOR Terry M. Smith ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform 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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.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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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. 20 – November 15 (copy due November )

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editorials

What would Edwin Wright think now?

Adam Robinson (Aberdeen)

Peter Hall (Anola)

Ed Johnson (Blumenort)

Tim Gibbons (Braeside)

Angel Infantes (Braeside)

Ferlin Abrahamson (Birch River)

Bryon Bezanson (Swift Current)

Vern Knutson (Crestview)

Luis Pitta (Brandon)

Doug Wildman (Endeavour)

David Kruse (Fort Garry)

Cameron McKenzie (Fort Garry)

Frank Winsor (La Crete)

Carlos Vera (Calgary)

Bill McCaskell (MacGregor)

Rick Hall (Grande Prairie)

Ward Parkinson (Morris)

Lorne Moorhead (Creighton)

Troy Selley (Oak Bluff)

David Pashe (Sioux Valley)

Don Timmons (Riverton)

Kelly Lesser (Roseisle)

Tom Warner (Steinbach)

Brad Schneck (Vanderhoof)

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dwin Wright emigrated from England to Canada. Later he became involved with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Somehow he crossed paths with Rev. Ben D. Reimer and served under the Western Gospel Mission at Canora, Sask.

WGM later dissolved and Wright served as an EMC pastor in the 1960s at Endeavour, Sask., and Riverton, Man. Wright was likely the first non-Low German pastor in an EMC church. Did he feel culturally alone? Forty-five years later he might not. The EMC Yearbook 2005 shows leaders, pastors, and ministers with names from many cultures.

The EMC started in 1812, and Professor Royden Loewen says we separated from a larger Mennonite church for faith, not cultural, reasons.

Given what early Anabaptists taught and died for, a wide range of names is appropriate and necessary on our church rolls and ministerial roster. Our conference slogan is Christ Through Us to Others.

Still, Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg (WGM’s former field man) might say we should recapture Western Gospel Mission’s passion to plant churches in Canada beyond Low German circles. Edwin Wright might have T agreed. I know I would. M Terry M. Smith

Anabaptists and Pentecostals

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uring part of March 9–16, 2006, Mennonite World Conference’s general council explored relationships between Anabaptists and Pentecostals.

A “findings group” concluded that Anabaptists and Pentecostals can help each other. Anabaptists should “explore what is missing in our life as a community that makes people hungry for what they find in Pentecostal churches” (Courier, 2006).

Juan Francisco Martinez, a Mennonite Brethren minister and a professor in the U.S., said Pentecostals can assist Anabaptists to “reconsider the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of our congregations” and to “recognize the Spirit’s role in…our peace commitment, social justice, service alongside the poor, prophetic witness, and similar issues.” Mennonites can find that “Pentecostal evangelistic fervor tends to be contagious.”

Pentecostals, in turn, could reconnect with their earlier heritage of being “a counter-cultural community with pacifistic

tendencies and a simple lifestyle” and learn to be an “intentional community,” “church as community, one that speaks prophetically in the world,” and of “the role of community in reading and interpreting Scripture,” he said.

I spent three good years within the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, including two years in ministerial training at Central Pentecostal College (Saskatoon). The PAOC was passionate about church planting and foreign missions.

Central provided balanced teaching. We were taught that there were two evidences of being baptized in the Spirit and the more important one was a changed lifestyle.

Rather than claim healing, we were to stop using medical means after healing has occurred, not before.

In contrast to my EMC experience, culture was never an issue in the PAOC. The Spirit of Pentecost makes people of many T cultures one in Christ (Acts 2). M Terry M. Smith

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

letters

coming events What Sider didn’t say

It was a thrill for me to attend the EMC Annual Convention a couple of months ago. A highlight for me was the opportunity to hear Dr. Ron Sider. I was blessed by his humble spirit, his depth of insight into the issues of the day and the centrality of the Scriptures in his thinking and in the solutions he suggests for the problems in our world today.

I was impressed by the fact that the bottom line for Dr. Sider was not how Mennonite we are, but rather how obedient we as Mennonites are to the Word of God. That is different from much of Mennonitism today.

I have to admit, though, that I was disappointed that, in his emphasis of Mennonites being “peace agents,” he largely missed out on a key opportunity for Mennonites to be agents of peace. He talked about the peace marches he has participated in and the value he sees in them.

As I listened to him I could not help thinking that a much more proactive, long-term effective and viable way to spread peace is to infiltrate countries all over the world, live there and demonstrate on a day to day basis what it means to be peace agents.

I think of the cry for native English speakers to take on teaching positions in countries which are totalitarian, anti-God, oppressive, and promoters of violence. I live and travel in Asia and am constantly confronted with invitations for the placement of English-speaking teachers.

What better way to be peace agents than to live in an urban setting, perhaps even on a university campus and live the Jesus life on a day to day basis!

May I challenge our EMC to become much more proactive in sending agents of peace to areas of the world that desperately need it? I realize that the EMC has a long history of missions involvement and have been sending people abroad to other countries and cultures. This is the time to intensify our efforts, to make more of an investment in personally planting seeds of peace.

Let’s take some risks in placing our people in key areas where they can be the fragrance of Christ,” the “light of the world, the “salt of the earth,” planters of the seed of peace.

It is not enough to come out of our Mennonite “villages” in large groups and do an afternoon peace march; we

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

will accomplish more by life-related demonstrations of Christ’s peace in daily life, even at considerable personal and denominational risk. Let’s move forward!

Elmer Warkentin Thailand

Church’s personal requirements not part of baptism Regarding Terry Smith’s editorial on baptism and church membership (July 5, 2006), I agree that church membership is not something to be balked at. Though not specifically outlined in scripture, membership is something that has developed in the church over the years, and is nothing to be afraid of. As an entity in this world, the church as an organization needs membership to run.

However, it is appalling when a church places its own personal requirements for membership upon those who wish to be baptized. Nowhere in scripture is such a practice found. Rather, we see the eunuch asking, “What is to stop me from being baptized now?” and we see Philip without a single objection.

Our very Anabaptist roots protest against heavy handed membership rites. It was because the Catholic church associated membership in an earthly body with membership in the heavenly body that our movement was born. Our forefathers believed that membership within the church needed to be by choice.

There are indeed many reasons why people resist church membership. Some objections are spurious, and others are reasonable. Still, maybe the validity of their reasons isn’t the issue. Aren’t our membership meetings attended by only a fraction of our members anyways? Will forcing a person to add their name to our membership roster somehow bloom interest in them? Why force membership on someone who doesn’t want it?

(Unless we are merely concerned about increasing our numbers.)

If a church’s only requirement for membership in their body is to be baptized by one of their members, then so be it. But I pity the church who would deny any believer the service of baptism for petty, denominational reasons.

Alan Fehr Pinawa, Man.

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 November 10 Christ’s Peace in a World of Terror Interactive event for youth groups and high school students Meadow Brook Fellowship Leamington, Ont. 416-423-9229 allanrm@mennonite.on.ca November 10–11 Living in New Ways MCC Ontario Annual Meeting Meadow Brook Fellowship Leamington, Ont. charc@mennonite.on.ca 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

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.

Beyond division

The Worship Se The central issue is not how many people we can attract to our worship services. It is how we can best minister to the spiritual well-being and witness of the church as it affects each age group in the church.

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’ve visited numerous evangelical churches in several denominations, and in almost all I noted a generational division in the worship service.

Although there have always been contentions in the church (Acts 6:1–7, 1 Corinthians 3:4, 1 Corinthians 12) these appear to have increased with our “new” styles of worship, which target people groups, rather than focus on exegetical preaching and balance in music.

To give us some indication of the enormity of this issue we need only go to the Internet and type in worship styles. More than one million hits turn up.

Volumes have been written about this situation in the church. But is the real issue choosing the right worship style?

Judging by the many church billboards announcing multiple worship services—Traditional, Contemporary, Blended, and Liturgical—one might conclude this is indeed the issue, as well as the solution: Choose the right style of worship and your problems are solved. But are multi-worship styled services fostering unity in the church?

Dan Lucarini, a one-time secular rocker and a former Contemporary Christian Music pastor, disagrees: “This is a family fight, a disagreement between brothers and sister in Christ, whom I care enough about to warn them against any involvement in such unproductive and divisive movement. I want to challenge Contemporaries to consider their role

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

What r v ice: is its Purpose? in CCM P&W [contemporary Christian music praise and worship] and show them a better way” (Why I Left the Contemporary Christian Music Movement, p.19).

Maybe Rick Warren’s prediction, that churches will inevitably lose members over the music styles they choose, could be interpreted as a partial solution to divisions in the body, by having the discontented, trouble makers leave: “Once you decide on the style of music you’re going to use in worship, you have set the direction of your church in far more ways than you realize. It will determine the kind of people you will attract, the kind of people you keep, and the kind of people you lose” (The Purpose Driven Church, p. 280). But is that what we really want?

How can we best minister?

The central issue, as I understand from the Scriptures, is not how many people we can attract to our worship services.

It is, rather, how we can best minister to the spiritual wellbeing and witness of the church as it affects each age group in the church. Youth are not less important than seniors, nor are seniors less important than youth.

Paul makes this clear in his letter to the Corinthians: “The body is a unit, though it is made THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

Henry Hiebert up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body…God has combined the members of the body…so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other…If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it…Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it (1 Cor. 12:12–27).

This inevitably brings us to a weakness within the seekersensitive church movement led by men like Bill Hybels and Rick Warren. Although not officially verbalized, this movement targets more the youth, especially non-Christians, as shown by Contemporary Christian Music, Praise and Worship, and pop/ rock worship styles.

Rick Warren puts it this way: “We use the style of music the majority of people in our church listen to on the radio. They like bright, happy, cheerful music with a strong beat. Their ears are accustomed to music with a strong base line and rhythm...

It’s called contemporary pop/rock” (The Purpose Driven Church, p.285).

Where does this leave those who don’t have their radios tuned to pop/rock, young or old? Are they the lesser members in the body that can be ignored in the worship service? Does this square with Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians? It doesn’t take complicated research to see that instead of building the body of Christ across generational lines, in keeping with Scripture, the very opposite is happening.

It’s for the Church!

If choosing the right style of worship is not the answer, then what is, and how can we correct the problem of divisions?

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Whether we use drums and guitars or organ and piano, or whether we sing choruses or hymns, is secondary to this central purpose of ministering to the Body of Christ in accordance with the instructions given us in God’s Word.

First, an article of this nature is far too limited for detailed analyses and proposed solutions. Music is much more than rhythm, beat, melody and lyrics, as I discovered when studying the various nuances of this art, including its spiritual/ emotional impact on the human psyche.

Second, division in the body is a spiritual matter and, although worship style affects us spiritually, the solution must be sought in our textbook, the Bible.

We must begin with asking, What is the purpose of the church gathering?

I would suggest the primary purpose is to strengthen believers in the faith and to prepare them for the task of witnessing in the workplace, which includes fostering a strong, united fellowship of believers. The epistles are replete with these instructions (Acts 6

20:28–31, Colossians 3:15–17, Hebrews 10:21–25). The seekersensitive/megachurch philosophy which targets the world, rather than the believer, tends to divide along generational lines, rather than to unite the church.

Evangelism is the mission of the church and to attract unbelievers is to be applauded; but this is not the primary purpose of our Sunday morning gatherings, especially at the risk of alienating the very ones we are to shepherd (1 Peter 2:1–5). I might add, the task of shepherding in this context is an all-inclusive ministry that begins with caring for the flock and teaching those first, who are to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2).

Making the church attractive to the world at the expense of destroying the unity of the saints has no basis in Scripture, in my view. To conclude, the issue is not what method can we use to attract the world into the church, but rather how best can we equip the saints to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13–16).

Whether we use drums and guitars or organ and piano, or whether we sing choruses or hymns, is secondary to this central purpose of ministering to the Body of Christ in accordance with the instructions given us in God’s Word.

Divisions have been in the church from its very beginning. Paul is clear that the body of Christ is one; everyone is equally needed for it to function effectively. For one generation to despise the other, as we see happening in many evangelical churches today, is not of the Lord. Much of this divisive spirit is spawned by different styles of worship; it often pits Boomers/Busters and Traditionals against each T other. There must be, and is, a better way. M Henry Hiebert (Steinbach EMC) is a retired college music professor and public/private school administrator.

He is now serving as interim pastor at Emmanuel Gospel Church in Lowe Farm, Man. His pastoral experience includes serving within various Mennonite and non-Mennonite churches; the latter include Baptist General Conference, Christian and Missionary Alliance, Baptist Union of Western Canada, and Church of the Nazarene.

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; 204-326-6401; or emcmessenger@mts.net

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

with our missionaries Alberta

Project Macedonia 2006

Skits. Snacks. Crafts. Games. Water- centre for much VBS preparation. The campout at a local campground. We balloons. Crayons. Stories. Puppets. Van first week felt intense, with doing VBS enjoyed playing sports, worshiping with rides. Giving piggy-back rides. Good food. both in the morning at the neighboring the youth, and a Mexican-Mennonite Fun songs. Friendly faces. And kids, kids, town of Noble Fort and in the evening at disco (barbecue).

Picture Butte.

Our last week of VBS was at Taber EMC. kids!

Afternoons were spent preparing for On our first day we ended up with double This was the bulk of our summer as the 2006 Project Macedonia Team the next day and getting all the crafts the kids that we had anticipated. Though this forced us to scramble to get to Southern Alberta. Team some extra crafts ready, it was a members were Roland and problem we were happy to have.

Jen Penner of Steinbach, Lucia During the week we spent two Bartsch of Blumenort, Melanie evenings in Lethbridge working Klassen of Morden, Ryley Fehr of with Streets Alive, doing innerMorden (all Manitoba), and Lisa city outreach. We also helped Doerksen of Osler, Sask. out at a local youth drop-in.

Our team met for orientation As a small group of only six at Steinbach Bible College where we got to know each other fairly we did extensive Vacation quickly. Each person brought Bible School preparation. The their unique gifts to add to the team members did a great team. Another definite highlight job of learning skits, telling was getting to know the billet Bible stories, and organizing games, songs, and crafts. The Team members Roland and Jen Penner, Lucia Bartsch, Ryley Fehr, Melanie families and all the people who opened their homes to us. orientation also included really Klassen, and Lisa Doerksen.

The curriculum we used for all encouraging and informative sessions in order. Even though the week felt with Beth Braun, Ward Parkinson, and overwhelming at times, it was great to three weeks of VBS centred around the Gerald Reimer, where we learned things see all the kids that turned out for VBS. treasure of God’s love. It was really neat about children’s ministry and Canadian Many new connections were made with for us to see these kids memorize: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, church-planting. We were also able to families in the community.

After having a busy week and a half, we it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not spend a memorable evening of ministry were able get away to Waterton National rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily at The Bridge in Winnipeg. angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Our first stop was at the Picture Park the following weekend.

The next week our team arrived at Love does not delight in evil but rejoices Butte Mennonite Church (EMC) family campout. It turned out to be a great way Vauxhall EMMC for our second week with the truth. It always protects, always to meet the church and start connecting of VBS. Because the group during this trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. with the group we would be working with week was a bit smaller we were able to Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:4–8).

We know that God’s Word is powerful in the first week. We even learned a few get to know the kids better. We spent two evenings in Lethbridge volunteering at and can have an impact on people’s lives. new Low German jokes!

It was exciting!

Abe and Anna Bueckert from the the Interfaith Food Bank.

On the weekend the three churches Roland and Jen Penner Picture Butte church warmly welcomed us into their home, which became a we were working with had a youth

Children attended VBS, where team members taught about God’s love, sometimes through skits (right).

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

with our churches

Youth travel to New York City Fort Garry (Winnipeg, Man.): Summer is over and we are once again into our regular church schedule.

Fort Garry EMC hosted a Neighbourhood Barbecue on September 9. It was a lovely evening and it was special to meet people from the neighborhood.

We also had university students join us for the evening. The horse-drawn wagon rides, as always, were a big attraction, as was the jumping structure.

We are looking forward to the Sunday morning messages for the next several months. Cameron Mackenzie will be bringing messages from the book of Exodus, while Layton Friesen will be studying the book of Revelation with us. We trust these will encourage us in our daily walk with the Lord.

It is good to reflect on the blessings we received during the summer months.

Several of our young people served at camp as counsellors, while some were campers. For all of them it was a time of growing in their faith.

A group of our young people had a great experience in New York City this summer. They were a group of nine youth and three leaders. Our youth pastor David Kruse had this to say about their time in NYC: “It was worth doing. I say it that way because it cost a lot: Lots of time and effort and money.

But the joy of seeing our youth maturing each in their own way was worth it.

They all became more self-aware and saw people to care for. We matured as a group, too, through the interaction and decision-making.”

Here’s what Angela Reimer said about the trip to New York: For one week in July, 12 members of our youth group participated in a Centre for Student Missions trip to New

Twelve people went on the missions trip: Nine youth and three leaders.

The group spent time teaching DVBS in Little Rock Baptist Church.

York City. We started off our CSM week with a prayer tour in which we visited three of New York’s five boroughs. We traveled by subway and we also walked about seven miles altogether that day.

Throughout the week we did different activities in the mornings and led a DVBS in the afternoon. We spent one morning at a soup kitchen, where we served soup and juice, but spent most of our time interacting with the people who came in to eat. They were very friendly and willing to share their stories with us, asking us questions about Canada in return.

At another soup kitchen we folded clothes to be given away to low-income families. A few group members prayed outside with people passing by the church.

We spent another morning in the only free furniture store in New York, which is designed to provide furniture to people who are getting off the streets.

We moved furniture, folded linens, and learned about homelessness from one of the store’s employees.

One morning we were sent into one of New York’s five Chinatowns with money for lunch and a list of questions to ask (even though many people in Chinatown don’t speak English). We had to eat something that we’d never had before, a daunting task for some of us. (Actually, we ate new things all week, because every night we went to a different ethnic restaurant for supper; we ate Malaysian, Mexican, Chinese,

Middle Eastern, Polish, and Indian.)

We were amazed at how stepping into Chinatown felt like going to a different country.

One evening we went the East Village, where we were given questions to ask and $1.50 each for supper, which taught us about how challenging it is for people on the street to feed themselves.

We pooled our money to buy donuts, bread, and a grocery-store rotisserie chicken—eaten without utensils. We enjoyed learning about the colourful and crazy place that is the East Village.

By far the biggest project of the week was a DVBS we led every afternoon at Little Rock Baptist Church in Brownsville. We had planned skits, songs, puppet shows, crafts, snacks, and games for the kids, who ranged from three to sixteen years old. Although we did have to learn how to use our voices properly (we were “too Canadian”— that is, too quiet), we soon connected with the kids.

They listened well during our devotional talks and we trust that they learned more about God and how He wants us to live. Several of the youth grew attached to the kids and it was hard to say goodbye in the end.

Overall, the week was a great growing experience for all who participated. We learned a lot about our own abilities, as well as our responsibility as Christians to help others as best we can.

Youth: Angela Reimer Reporter: Diana Remer

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Excited by new people Rosenort Fellowship (Man.): Where did the summer go? Even though we did not have many cloudy days, and even fewer mosquitoes, we at RFC still managed to have a great summer! Here are some of the key events that took place.

Way back in April, we held a deacon commissioning service. We welcomed Elmer and Anne Brandt, and Cal and Kim Kroeker as new deacons at RFC. We are excited to see how God will use them in our congregation.

Avery. Pastor John Driedger baptized Craig Cornelsen, Jeremy Siemens, Kristen Siemens, and Teresa Thiessen on June 9. We held an earlier service to accommodate the people who wished to attend the Rosenort EMC baptism service which was held on the same morning. Our summer Sunday school picnic took place at the Rosenort Rec Centre in June as well.

July 9 was the Rosenort community service, involving all three EMC

Pastor John Driedger with newly baptized Craig Cornelsen, Jeremy Siemens, Kristen Siemens, and Teresa Thiessen.

We had a number of missionaries join us for a Sunday morning this summer. Danny Plett, Gordon Johnson, and Elmer and Elvira Warkentin all shared their time with us. It is always appreciated when missionaries take time from their busy schedule to share what God is doing in other parts of the world.

In May we held a baby dedication for Tim and Tammy Sanderson’s girl

churches. It was held at Rosenort EMC with Amos Fehr speaking.

Living Fountain Bible Camp was a huge success this year again. It took place in early August at the Beaver Creek Bible Camp north of Riverton.

Approximately one hundred kids were registered and had a great time. There were many decisions made to follow Jesus’ teachings. There is something about the camp setting that really

speaks to the kids’ hearts and souls.

Only God knows the actual success of camp!

In September we accepted Marvin and Heidi Schmidt as new members at RFC. They had moved from Paraguay to Rosenort in January 2005. We are very excited to have them as a part of our church body.

We just got back from Wilderness Edge in Pinawa. We had our Family Camp up there from September 29 to October 1. Michael Fehr, our guest speaker from the Gladstone Christian Fellowship, spoke on God’s calling on our lives.

His messages were very challenging and a great reminder of what our job descriptions are as Christians here on earth. He asked the question “what sets the Christians apart from the nonbelievers?” This really spoke to me and challenged me to examine my life as a follower of Jesus.

There were approximately 110 people attending, and a few more wishing they had signed up a little earlier as we were at capacity. I feel the church retreats are great for renewing and making friendships. It really brings a church family closer to each other and closer to God. I am encouraged to see the direction RFC is heading. We are a congregation that has a desire to reach the lost and less fortunate. It is awesome to be a part of a church body when you are personally experiencing good and bad times. Let’s remember to encourage and lift each other up in prayer in our daily lives.

Ryan Friesen

EMCup Hockey Tournament November 17–19, 2006 Steinbach, Manitoba Tournament to begin on Friday, November 17 at 5 p.m. Final game to be played on Sunday, November 19 at 2 p.m.

Admission for this game is $2. Donations go to Hockey Ministries International to support their chaplain program for junior hockey teams in western Canada.

For additional information call Colin Loewen at 204-346-1380 or e-mail caloewen@mts.net.

Bernie Friesen with the loot at the Amazing Race during family camp in Pinawa, Man.

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

Mission Impossible becomes Mission Accomplished Anola, Man.: Zealous, the Anola Chapel youth ministry, has used a field game called Mission Impossible as its fall kickoff night for three consecutive years. The event gets bigger every year, bringing in many teens that don’t normally go to church or youth. This year saw about 65 students attending. Here is one of many stories that can be told of this annual event: It’s a rainy Saturday night in September, yet you arrive at Camp Fogolar tingling with anticipation. The driveway is marked with a massive LED light; you’re waved in by orange-vested greeters.

You hike toward the sound of pulsating music and youthful conversations. Silhouettes materialize into people as you reach the meeting place.

You shiver at the edge of the picnic shelter-turned-base site. From the bordering darkness step the youth leaders, sinister in their dark clothes and grease painted faces. Grinning teenagers show up for the game in black hoodies and camouflage face-paints, gathering impatiently around picnic tables.

Your eyes sweep the shadowed, unfamiliar “camp.” While the impending game may be well-known, the location is new for this year, so you must take stock of your surroundings. A large wishing well looms behind you, and beyond that, a locked building. Vehicles of all sorts are crammed into the nearby parking lot…evidence that the event will be

well-staffed. A wall of speakers booms hip-hop from beneath the shelter.

The music fades and a microphone crackles to life. A middle-aged man, dressed in a black sweatshirt and jeans, raises his hands. “Everybody gather ’round!” he says. He explains the rules and boundaries for the game. Music reminiscent of Tom Cruise throbs faintly in the background. Two college-age men amble toward the mic.

The taller man clears his throat. He acquaints the group with the plot, a story of alchemists and foreign lands, scientists and a strange rock. This rock is hidden somewhere, and your task is to seek it out and bring it back to the base camp. “Remember,” the speaker warns, “this isn’t Mission Difficult; this is Mission Impossible.”

The soundtrack blares from the amps, and everyone stampedes toward the first checkpoint.

Checkpoint 1 is easy; follow the crowd toward the blue light. Once you reach this clearing, you receive your first wristband and ticket. After this, you can get caught by snipers at any time.

Kids shoot off all directions from the checkpoint, crashing through the brush, dashing across the open field, and sneaking around vehicles in the parking lot. Bright beams of snipers’ flashlights pan across the area, with people diving for cover as the light approaches.

Your heart sinks as a nearby flashlight

rests its beam on you. “Hand me your ticket,” says a triumphant voice. You dawdle a few minutes before returning to Checkpoint 1 and starting again.

You head in a totally different direction this time. Crawling on your belly behind a hedge and sneaking alongside a building brings you to a clearing. You approach a harmlesslooking bystander. He turns to face you and you gasp; he’s a sniper!

But, for once, you’re allowed to go free. He directs you toward a stack of straw bales off to the side. A tunnel has been fashioned in the corner, and you must crawl through it. You wedge through, bumping against someone ahead of you and being urged on from behind.

At the end of the tunnel you are handed a new wristband and ticket, and told a password for Checkpoint 3. The checkpoint officer points broadly east and you begin another leg of your trek.

The toughest part is the constant threat of snipers. Stacks of firewood, scraggly bushes, even the shadow of an old fridge become your refuge, but you still get caught many times. You know where to go, but can’t think how to stay free long enough to get there.

Metres away from the third checkpoint, you’re caught again. You were so close this time! Fireworks signal the end of the game, and your chances are spent. You trek back to the meeting place to join the others around a bonfire. Mission Impossible has once again proved impossible for you.

Very few succeed at Mission Impossible, though many have tried.

Other stories include tales of triumph, tales of near success, and tales of utter failure. Yet it is Mission Accomplished, because many teenagers from the community have been introduced to the youth group. We pray that we will see some of these kids attending youth throughout the year.

Jessica Wichers

births A team of students and adults travelled to Ensenada, Mexico, where they built a house for a family in need.

The trip took place July 23–26, 2006. Pictured are the Anola team, the family who received the house, and the Mexican foreman: (standing) Brian Davis, Harold Martin, Joyce Martin, Josh Wieler, “Senora” and “Senor,” “Gerardo,” “Rudy” (foreman), Shaun Sawatzky, Raymond Nolt, Peter Hall, (seated) Geralyn Wichers, Rachel Davis, Jessica Wichers, Jessica Melnyk, “Romano,” “Adriana,” Marissa Sawatzky, Starr Wiebe.

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

FEHR – to Wes and Angie Fehr of Pansy, Man., a son, Malachi James, on September 23, 2006.

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

A day filled with emotion Abbeydale (Calgary, Alta.): Sunday, June 25, was a day filled with emotion.

We needed to say good-bye to Scott Koop who is leaving us to take on a pastoral internship at Gateway International Church, in Calgary. Pastor David Funk shared a beautiful way of doing this that had been done for him when he left his church to come here.

First, he gave Scott an opportunity to “say good-bye” and tell of his plans; then everyone who loved and supported Scott was asked to stand. A chair was set facing the door and we gathered behind him praying for him and blessing him to “go.”

Then there was a baptism. Chris Verge had been too sick to be immersed in river water a couple of weeks earlier.

Chris, eagerly awaiting his 20th birthday in three days, has battled leukemia three times—and that’s very rare! Doctors don’t really know what to do with him.

He’s in remission right now, but because of treatments over the years (since he was 7) he has permanently lost most of his hair, and most of his lung function.

But his brain and “spiritual heart” are just fine, and his strength is a visible reminder to not give up!

Brenda Dick

Scott Koop being blessed to go!

Scott Koop

weddings REIMER – WIEBE: Kevin Reimer of Landmark, Man., and Laurie Wiebe of Pansy, Man., were married on September 16, 2006, in Steinbach, Man. The couple lives in Landmark area.

Chris Verge

Malcolm Koop now a credentialed YFC leader

Steinbach EMC: Sunday October 1 saw a Youth for Christ credentialing service in our church. The service was held for Malcolm Koop, who has already been active in Steinbach Youth for Christ chapter for some time.

Steinbach Youth for Christ chapter was started in 1989 with Jim Harms as the first Executive Director. Before that Harms was, for some 10 years, youth pastor at our church.

Youth for Christ was Malcolm Koop was commissioned as a credentialed leader organized at the end of World with Youth for Christ. Malcolm, shown here with his wife War Two into a national Noella and son Rhys (Aiden not shown), has completed YFC’s movement. Billy Graham leadership internship program. Taking part in the service with prayer for Malcolm was Steinbach YFC’s executive became YFC’s first full-time director Jim Harms and Arden Thiessen. staff member.

Dave K. Schellenberg

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

FUNK – BERG: Chris Funk and Kim Berg were married on September 9, 2006 at Kleefeld EMC. The couple lives in Steinbach, Man. EILER – RECHT-SIGEL: Bob Eiler and Ruth Recht-Sigel were married on August 30, 2006, in Winnipeg, Man. KLASSEN – HARMS: Dave Klassen and Mary Harms were married on June 4, 2005, at Leamington EMC with John Bartsch of Leamington, Ont., officiating. The couple lives in Leamington.

GIESBRECHT – KLASSEN: Abe Giesbrecht and Tina Klassen were married on July 9, 2005, at Leamington EMC with Lowell Froese officiating.

The couple lives in Alberta.

VASQUEZ – WALL: Alex Vasquez and Lisa Wall were married in August 2005 at Leamington EMC with John Bartsch of Leamington, Ont., officiating. The couple lives in Leamington.

WALL – ENNS: Henry, son of Henry and Tina Wall of Leamington, Ont., and Susy, daughter of John and Agatha Enns of Leamington, were married on June 11, 2005, at Leamington EMC with Jake Enns of Tilbury, Ont., officiating. The couple lives in Leamington.

KLASSEN – WIEBE: Jake Klassen of Leamington, Ont., and Lisa, daughter of Cornelius and Susan Wiebe of Leamington, were married in July 2005 at Leamington EMC with John Bartsch of Leamington officiating. The couple lives in Leamington.

MARTENS – LETKEMAN: Ben Martens and Judy Letkeman were married on May 21, 2005, at Leamington EMC with Jake Enns of Tilbury, Ont., officiating. The couple lives in Leamington, Ont.

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From Labrador and La Crete, with thanksgiving Kleefeld, Man.: We are very excited about the installation of our new associate pastor, Peter Ascough.

Peter and Irene, together with their sons Christopher and Reuben, arrived in Kleefeld after a one-month journey from Labrador, where they had been serving with MCC as directors at the Labrador Christian Youth Camp. Before that they had been serving in Ontario as a youth pastor and assistant camp director, respectively.

Peter and Irene met in Ontario while working with young offenders, and even before their marriage they chose the words of Colossians 3:16–17 as their motto in life: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

The commissioning service took place on October 1 and was followed by a potluck lunch for the church family.

Welcome back to Leanora Koop, who transferred her membership back to the Kleefeld EMC after an absence of many years. Leanora’s testimony was marked with thanksgiving and joy as she recalled some of her past experiences and highlights in her walk with the Lord.

She transferred from the La Crete Christian Fellowship, where she had been worshipping during the 25 years

Peter and Irene Ascough, with Christopher and Reuben, at Peter’s commissioning as associate pastor on October 1, 2006.

she taught elementary school in the area. Previous to that, she also taught in Brazil for four years. We are already benefiting from Leanora’s friendly personality and leadership qualities.

On October 6 the Kleefeld EMC hosted the Community Thanksgiving Supper at the Kleefeld School gym.

Special thanks go to all the volunteers who helped make the evening a success.

Proceeds went to the Kleefeld/New Bothwell First Responders to purchase new equipment.

Louella Friesen

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.

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Leanora Koop transferred in membership to Kleefeld EMC on September 17, 2006.

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.

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

writings shared

Gracious Christianity: Living the Love We Profess by Douglas Jacobsen and Rodney J. Sawatsky (Baker Academic, 2006), 140 pp., $16.50.

Reviewed by Rev. Terry M. Smith, executive secretary, Board of Church Ministries.

G

racious Christianity focuses on how the Christian faith is to be lived out graciously in our belief in God and in our treatment of others. Love of God and of our neighbour is “the Jesus Creed.”

The book is co-authored by a former president and a former professor of Messiah College, an institution founded by the Brethren in Christ (which has an Anabaptist connection). Sadly, one of its writers, Rodney Sawatsky, died from brain cancer before the book was completed.

Gracious Christianity succeeds as a gentle introduction to, or as an overview of, the Christian faith. It’s highly readable in style—other scholars, take note! Thoughtful discussion questions are scattered throughout the book.

Its eight short chapters look at God and creation, human nature, hearing God’s voice, the fullness of salvation, the Spirit and life, being church, the Bible, and the future. The paperback conveys a rich, holistic understanding of what Christ calls us to be and to do as the world-wide, ecumenical Church.

Gracious Christianity is the sort of book I’d consider giving to a Canadian inquirer who is wary of the

Terry M. Smith

passion in Galatians 1. For instance, there’s no caution against purgatory (p. 125).

Perhaps it over-claims that God’s voice is “almost always quiet” (pp. 52); the various witnesses in Scripture say that God can speak quietly, loudly, or even be silent.

Further, when exploring Christ’s atonement, it’s helpful for love and law not to be pitted against each other (p.

73). Finally, the book would have been strengthened by more quoting of Scripture and by including additional references for direct study T of the Bible. M

Gracious Christianity is the sort of book I’d consider giving to a Canadian inquirer who is wary of the Christian faith or, in some cases, who has been wounded by the Christian Church.

Christian faith or, in some cases, who has been wounded by the Christian Church. The book succeeds as a gentle discussion starter, while educating and being open to questions along the way. It can be used by individuals or groups. Some study resources are available at www.graciouschristianity.org.

The book’s weaknesses? Perhaps in its desire to be peaceful, Gracious Christianity has, at times, a vagueness that contrasts with Paul’s depth of conviction and THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

1

Bible translation: Why bother?

Bible translation is as essential today as it ever has been. Its impact on a culture can be profoundly spiritual, but also immensely practical. And on some days it’s even better than chocolate.

“Wow, this is really great; this is as good as eating chocolate.”

The person who spoke these words was talking about reading the Bible in their own language. It was August 2003 and Prime Minister Jean Chretien had just signed a land claims agreement in Rae-Edzo, Northwest Territories. The agreement gave the Dogrib people selfgovernment and extensive control over 39,000 square kilometres of land. It was a significant event for the Dogrib Nation, well publicized throughout Canada.

But that same weekend, another historic event took place there: The launch of the first complete New Testament translation in the Dogrib language. The launch didn’t get as much attention as the lands claim agreement, but having the Bible in their own language also had a significant cultural impact on the Dogrib Nation.

“Oh man, this is good! This is the real treaty. This one will never change,” said one Dogrib elder when she saw the translated New Testament.

Such words fuel the vision and mission of the Canadian Bible Society.

CBS translates, publishes and distributes the Bible throughout Canada,

“Oh man, this is good!

This is the real treaty.

This one will never change,” said one Dogrib elder when she saw the translated New Testament. and has Bibles, New Testaments and other Scriptures available in 111 foreign languages as well as 23 Canadian aboriginal languages.

The computer is the translator’s best friend and the CBS has been a leader in creating computer technology used around the world to present God’s Word

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in local languages. The Society helped develop the Institute for Computer Assisted Publishing (ICAP), which develops computer tools to support Bible translation and publishing, and helps to build a community of support around the use and deployment of these tools.

ICAP will host two annual institutes to serve the broader translation community, the Developer Institute and an Applied Institute. The first Applied Institute in 2005 was an especially successful contribution to the goal of building a community of support among more than 30 international solutions providers for the translation task. This was followed up by apprenticeship experiences for three international participants, as well as ICAP web site enhancements that allow participants to contribute directly to the site’s content.

Since perfect translation is impossible, there will always be a need for Bible translation in the community of believers in Christ. English and some

other major languages of the world almost seem to have a glut of Bible versions today, but since languages continue to change, before this century is over many of today’s cutting edge versions will need to be revisited and revised.

As many as 3,000 languages still require Scripture translation. But whatever the final tally, there are not enough resources available to those engaged in Bible translation today to meet all the needs—or even the requests for translations—in new languages.

No one organization can accomplish this essential task alone. There is more than enough work to do for all who care about the Bible and want to help make it available to all people in a language they can understand, at a price they can afford.

Hart Wiens, CBS Hart Wiens directs Scripture translation for the Canadian Bible Society (hwiens@ubsicap.org).

Bible translation: Where faith and technology meet Bible translation is as essential today as it ever has been. The ministries of countless organizations, both in Canada and overseas, are empowered by having Scripture available in local languages and accessible formats.

Computer technology has become an indispensable tool in the support of Bible translation and Bible publishing. And the Canadian Bible Society (CBS) has made invaluable contributions to the advancement of this field. CBS’s translation office, located in Kitchener, Ont., is home to the Institute for Computer Assisted Publishing (ICAP). This cutting edge institute has a mandate to develop computer tools for the Bible translation efforts of ministries and organizations around the world.

That includes creating a community of support around the deployment of the translation tools devel-

oped at ICAP. Short term courses and long term apprenticeships bring Bible translators from around the globe to Canada. They learn the latest technology, receive support and encouragement, and become part of the growing body of translators impacted by CBS’s contribution to the translation movement.

The Bible is now available in more than 2,200 different languages, with an estimated 3,000 left to go.

From its very early days the Canadian Bible Society has recognized the pivotal importance of translation for the worldwide Church.

“We’re basically servants,” says Ed Peters, ICAP’s manager of computer assisted publishing. “We serve the translation world and the Bible publication world, and in doing that, we serve the global Church.”

CBS

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

Violent crime victims need help with bond, Derksen says Without choice, victims of violent crime are thrown into an abyss of darkness, confusion, frustration, fear and anger.

“We used to call it shell shock. Now we recognize it as trauma,” says Wilma Derksen, whose 13-year-old daughter Candace was abducted. Almost seven weeks later her daughter’s frozen body was found in an abandoned shed near her home in Winnipeg, Man.

Wilma Derksen displays a poster by Victims’ Voice, a MCC Canada program that assists people affected by violent crime.

“To this day, we still have no idea who would have done this to our child, or why,” says Derksen, director of Victims’ Voice, a MCC Canada program assisting people affected by violent crimes.

Still, Derksen says a bond developed between the offender and her family—an insidious bond that had to be understood, addressed and resolved for healing to take place.

In her book, Confronting the Horror, the aftermath of violence, she describes the victim/offender trauma bond as one of the most destructive elements in the aftermath of a violent crime.

“Until we break this victim/offender trauma bond we will never be free to recover from the incident, rebuild our lives or feel in control of our lives again,” she says. “We have to defeat the mastery of fear. We have to defeat the control of the trauma. The only way to free ourselves of this bond is to break the hold it has on us.”

The first step to breaking the bond is to identify ways that the offender controls one’s life. “In order to break the bond we need to deal with our fear, anger, mistrust and dependencies,” says Derksen.

To help victims with the trauma bond, a program called Safe Justice Encounters was launched in 2002 for victims who

choose to communicate with their offender.

This face-to-face encounter, says Derksen, helps victims find answers about the crime, clarify confusion, reduce anger and fear and deal with issues surrounding the violent incident and trauma bond.

Her journey of breaking her trauma bond with the offender included meeting with 10 prisoners serving life sentences.

Derksen compares the healing process following trauma to rebuilding after natural disasters. “Some stuff can be recycled but it all has to be re-evaluated before it can be put together again.”

Forgiveness, she says, is a key component. It’s letting go of the need to retaliate, to hurt back, and of revenge.

“We have to let go of that and learn to trust again,” she explains.

Derksen’s healing process included reliving her trauma through writing the books Have you seen Candace? in 1991 and Confronting the Horror in 2002.

Confronting the Horror is written primarily for victims of violent crime, but destructive elements experienced after a violent crime can be applied to all trauma and situations of victimization, including terrorism, war, bankruptcy, natural disasters, divorce, and cultural genocide.

Gladys Terichow, MCC Canada

IMPaCT has an impact on global pastors Throwing together eleven Mennonite pastors from three continents and six countries from June 1–14 in Winnipeg, Man., is bound to create interesting challenges and new insights.

“We want to become a global church.

Bringing Anabaptist pastors together to talk about the challenges and joys of being the church in different cultures will have a significant multiplier effect to this end,” said Janet Plenert, executive secretary of Mennonite Church Canada Witness and part of the planning committee for IMPaCT (International Mennonite Pastors Coming Together).

Their national church bodies recommended the international pastors while Manitoba pastors were selected because of their minimal international experience and contact.

Despite language challenges, guests and hosts quickly connected with one another. Carlos Gallardo from Chile talked about his faith journey into radical Anabaptism. His host Norm Dyck, of Graysville Mennonite Church, observed that his prayers had been answered: God sent him someone who would invite a

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

radical understanding of faith.

All the pastors spoke either English or Spanish. One participant observed initial concern about the language barrier was evaporating. “[Sometimes] I forget that we can’t speak the same language and I just start speaking to someone!”

Carlos Gallardo shared a story about the last pope’s visit to Peru. The indigenous people presented him with a Bible. “When your people came to Latin America they taught us to pray with our eyes closed. We did that. When we opened our eyes, we had a Bible and you had our land. Today we are giving you back your Bible, because we think that the values and the precepts contained in it are more needed by your people than by our people,” they said.

The colonial conquest of the church continues to plague today’s church and wider society in Latin America.

Most pastors agreed that barriers to developing gifts in the body include the attitude of perfectionism, busy people with competing priorities, low self-esteem, and church structures that focus on filling positions rather than on the core identity of the church.

A closing communion service acknowledged two missing guest pastors from Cuba who were denied entry visas by the Canadian government. A prayer circle formed around their photographs, propped up on empty chairs.

Next year, IMPaCT will be in Alberta.

MWC

Quotes It is said in Latin America, “The church is the only army that kills its wounded.”

– guest pastor Consumerism is our new Baal.

– guest pastor Church and faith in our community have become optional.

– host pastor We are a church that is liberal with tradition but radical in our understanding of the gospel.

– guest pastor You don’t just wake up one day and say “I’m a heretic.” It takes a long time to become one!

– guest pastor

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Hold Me Hold me Oh, hold me My father When the wind blows Tumbling pails across the yard Slamming doors Snatching away shed roofs Hold me in your strong arms Sheltering me Hold me, Oh, hold me, Father God, When the storms of life rage Tearing at my ideals Smashing down my peace Snatching at my faith Cradle me in your mighty arms Tenderly.

Laura Plett Siemens Kola, Man.

The Spotless Bride Her dress is soiled and her veil is torn Instead of true beauty, she’s an object of scorn Where is the groom that she longs to see?

When is the banquet prepared for thee?

If the groom has been delayed, does her heart stray?

Can she stand to wait another day?

Do we long to be a spotless Bride, Or do we cover our shame and then run and hide?

As the days grow dark, Does our light grow dim?

Do we have fresh oil, And keep our wicks trimmed?

Be faithful to the one to whom you’ve pledged your love, He’ll be arriving soon with a call from above Wash your wedding clothes and patiently wait, Light the garden path and anticipate!

For when the Bridegroom comes, He expects to see A Radiant Bride in you and in me

Brigitte Toews Landmark, Man.

Scripture Inspiration Matthew 25:1–13; Jude 17–25; Revelation 22:12–17, 19:1–10; Ephesians 5:25–27

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THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

stewardship today Edwin Friesen

Women and Charity

F

or the past ten years, I have been a member of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) and during this past year, I served as chair of the ongoing education program of the Manitoba chapter.

The association is made up of people involved in the “money and charity” sector for a variety of charities including health, education, religion, and other social causes. It didn’t take me long to realize that as a male in the group, I was in the minority.

Nationally, about 60 percent of the approximately 1,300 CAGP members are women. In some employment sectors women are underrepresented, but not in the “money and charity” sector. They are at the forefront, maybe for good reason.

In charitable fundraising, there is a saying that donors give to people, not causes. Though that is a maxim, not an absolute truth, this trend favours women’s relational aptitudes.

to end of life, on average women outlive men and therefore, hold sway over estate distributions, including charitable bequests.

The link between women, ministry, and money is, of course, not a new phenomenon.

Even in New Testament times, women were key participants and financial supporters of the early church ministry.

Jesus and his disciples received money from a

The link between women, ministry, and money is, of course, not a new phenomenon. Even in New Testament times, women were key participants and financial supporters of the early church ministry.

In addition to their skills in representing the needs and challenges of their particular charity, many women are very good at building and sustaining relationships with donors, relationships that are integral to long term donor loyalty and generosity.

While in earlier generations it was often the male who oversaw household finances, in many homes today that role is now shared or has shifted to the wife. Cheques going to support our churches, schools, and conference programs are often signed by women—both single and married. Regardless of their marital status, many women today have significant personal income and are very engaged in charitable gifting decisions.

In the corporate world, companies will often designate a portion of their profits as “social capital” to be given to programs that better the community where the company and its employees are located. Often women in senior staff positions are very influential in choosing the beneficiaries of this “social capital.”

Key positions on family or corporate foundations are also frequently held by women. And when it comes THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

group Luke describes as “some women he (Jesus) had healed…Mary Magdalene…Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples” (Luke 8:1-3).

The emotional support and the monetary gifts from these women, though probably unexpected, will have greatly encouraged Jesus and his disciples as they carried on their itinerant ministry.

And so too today. The vision, passion, volunteerism, and money that flow from the women among us forms T an integral part of kingdom work today. M For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office.

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

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MARY BARKMAN 1924–2006

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust (Psalm 90:1–2).

Mary was born to Dave and Justina Kroeker on March 18, 1924, the fifth child. Due to her mother’s early death when Mary was only three years old, and her father’s serious accident whereby he was unable to provide for his children, the four children were given a new home with relatives.

Mary’s new home was with her uncle and aunt, Jacob U. and Maria Kornelsen.

She was an only child. A few years later she was overjoyed when a baby boy, Peter, joined the family. Now she had a brother she was proud of and took special care of him. Mary and her brother grew up together on the family farm in Kleefeld. They spent much time playing and working together in fields and in the

bush. Mary was a hard worker; this came out in various ways throughout her life.

She accepted Jesus as her personal Saviour. As long as her health allowed she quietly served her Lord and was true to Him to the end. It could be said of her as in Isaiah 30:15, “In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.”

One of her first adventures of independence was when she went to work in St. Catherine’s, Ont., in a cannery.

One of her dreams was to buy her own bedroom suite with her well-earned money.

As a young adult her mother died and all the hard work and housework fell on her. This left the family very lonely. Then her father Jacob Kornelsen married Mrs. Sara Plett of Blumenort. This marriage brought six brothers and three sisters into her life. Despite all the work she was happy to have sisters.

In February 1950 the family decided to make the big move to Mexico and again establish a new home. Mary seemed enthused and worked hard to make this a happy home. Here in Mexico she was joined in marriage to Peter Barkman on December 9, 1951. They shared 54 years, seven months, and six days together. A baby son joined them in August 1960.

Little Johnny gave them much joy. Mary was overjoyed and took great pride in dressing him with special home-designed clothes.

Their employment took them to many different communities, like Mexico, Morris, Riverton, Mennville, and Dugald. They then made their home in Blumenort and Oakwood. Mary worked hard in helping to earn a living. She was

MDS bits

• For the second time in five years, Mennonite Disaster Service has quadrupled its office space in Winnipeg, Man. On Tuesday, September 19, 2006, MDS dedicated a newly renovated 1,500 square foot office space to improved disaster response. The new space is located in a strip mall at 1325 Markham Road near Bison Drive.

• MDS has started an RV Program for retired and semi-retired couples and singles with access to a self-contained RV. The MDS RV Program allows MDS the opportunity to set up RV sites rapidly near locations where houses need rebuilding. For information on the RV Program email mdsrv@mds. mennonite.net.

MDS

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employed at Granny’s Poultry for many years, always walking to and from work in sunshine, rain, or snow. Then in her spare time, she did a lot of beautiful handwork—crocheted afghans, knitted baby sweater sets and cute little dresses.

Later, when her eyesight was somewhat failing, she knitted many scarves, toques, and mitts for friends and relatives.

Mary’s last years were spent at Rest Haven in Steinbach. Here she received gentle and loving care from staff and relatives. Many times when you’d talk to her and (due to her hearing limitations, she didn’t always understand) she would smile sweetly as if to say, “I love you anyway.” Or she would smile ever so lovingly and say, “Thank you.”

The last four months were gradually getting more difficult, as she was confined to her chair and, lastly, to her room. Many times communication was difficult and we were wondering what she wanted to say.

On Sunday she was noticeably weaker and fever set in. She was diagnosed with pneumonia. On Tuesday evening, July 25, 2006, at 7:30 p.m. she breathed her last and was released from suffering to her eternal home. Her brother and his wife from Mexico were at her bedside.

She was predeceased by their son Johnny in a tragic fire accident in December 1991. She will be missed by her loving husband Peter.

We wish to thank all the staff and relatives for the loving care and support during her stay at Rest Haven and especially in the last days.

Her Family

Israel 2007 Biblical Discovery Tour March 24 to April 3, 2007 Hosts: Pastor Dale and Lori Dueck

Winkler EMMC Visit Old Jerusalem, The Garden of Gethsemane, The Garden Tomb, Nazareth, Capernum, the Mount of Olives, Beth Shean, Sea of Galilee, Meggido and the plains of Armageddon, the Dead Sea, Qumran, Mars Hill (Acts 17). Tour base price: $2,449 Canadian. Mars Hill adds $95.

There are incidental tour costs (phone for info).

Cutting the ribbon at the new MDS office: Lois Nickel, director of region relations and programs; Gord Friesen, region V board chair; and Ben Funk, Manitoba unit chair.

See sunworldtours.com or 1-800461-6854. Call 204-325-7667 or email pastordale-wemmc@mts.net.

THE MESSENGER October 18, 2006

shoulder tapping 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).

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

THE EVANGELICAL Mennonite Mission Conference has an opening for a permanent part-time 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

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 18, 2006

accountant working with computerized records and interpersonal skills in a small office team setting; an asset is a broad knowledge of nonprofit 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 403-275-6935 or Sheila Froese at 403-932-4093.

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.

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.

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 fi nd 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.

LA CRETE Christian Fellowship (La Crete, Alta.) is looking for a senior pastor to continue to nurture and spiritually grow this well established church of about 400 regular members. LCCF is located in Northern Alberta, and its service to God is based on the core values of a commitment to teaching God’s Word and outreach to the community.

The senior pastor will lead the church to engage in a fellowship of worship, compassion, training, ministry and application. He will work well in a team environment to proclaim the gospel to believers and unbelievers, and to care for the church’s members and other persons in the community. The applicant must have a strong and growing relationship with God, as well as with his family.

If you are interested, we invite you to prayerfully consider this opportunity. Contact the search committee by emailing billmel2@telus.net or abstcam@telus.net, or contact Bill Driedger at (780) 928-2850.

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.

19

KIDS

corner Loreena Thiessen

Grumbles and the Perfect Day

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hat kind of day are you having? Is it perfect?

Has anything upset you? Have you grumbled about anything?

Maybe your best friend let you down. Then your mother demands that you clean your room—now!

Maybe your brother is driving you crazy. Or your dog tore up your sweater and ate your homework! You discover that your favorite jeans are in the laundry (or should be) and in one minute you have to make a whole new outfit choice.

The fridge is out of milk and you’re late for the bus. How can this be happening?! Your day is ruined!

On any day, any one or more of these disappointments can happen. What do you do?

To grumble is natural. People have grumbled for thousands of years. Take the children of Israel. They wanted to get out of Egypt where as slaves they were beaten and punished. Moses led them out, but Pharaoh and his soldiers were after them and the Red Sea blocked their escape, so they cried and wished they were back in Egypt. Then they were safe on the other side but they had no water to drink. Again they complained. They got hungry and again they grumbled and wished they were back in Egypt where they had had enough to eat.

Why did the Israelites grumble?

They grumbled because they were afraid. They were afraid of new difficulties, afraid of an unfamiliar situation, and afraid of death on the journey. They did not trust God—this is why they were afraid.

But for each problem God had a plan: He made a path through the Red Sea. He made their drinking water sweet.

He provided enough meat and bread for each day.

How did God do this?

God called Moses to help the people. Moses didn’t have the solutions to the problems they faced, so he asked God what to do. Each time God gave him an answer. And each time it worked.

Moses didn’t have the solutions to the problems the people faced, so he asked God what to do. Each time God gave him an answer.

PAGE 20

Moses made the right choice. He obeyed God and helped the people.

You will face problems, but grumbling does not solve them. What can you do?

In a notebook make a prayer diary. Divide a page vertically (from top to bottom). On one side make a list of your prayers. Across from each prayer record the date the prayer is answered.

Another thing you can do is sing to God to break a grumbling mood. Play a praise tape or CD and sing along.

Praising God is a way of showing that you trust God to help you through a problem.

Read God’s promises to remind you that He will help T you: Jeremiah 33:3; Proverbs 3:5–6; Psalm 121. M

Word Search: Find the Grumbles T

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Fill in the blanks below. Then find those words in the puzzle above.

1. At __________ they couldn’t drink the water because it was __________ (Exodus 15:23).

2. Moses threw a piece of __________ into the water and the water became __________ (Exodus 15:25).

3. The Israelites said they would __________ to death (Exodus 16:3).

4. God gave them __________ and __________ to eat (Exodus 16:13–15).

5. The people were thirsty. God told Moses to __________ a rock and water would come out (Exodus 17:6).

6. Moses always __________ (prayed) to the __________ when the people complained (Exodus 17:4).

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