The Messenger Vol. 45 No. 5 March 7, 2007

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 45 NUMBER 5 MARCH 7, 2007

Is Your Testimony Worth

Sharing?

The

Messenger

The deceptiveness of decency

R

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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.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. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents.

THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press.

Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba.

ISSN #0701-3299 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. 7 – April 4 (copy due March 23)

2

editorials ev. A. C. Forrest tells of being “in self-righteousness, or corrupts us more a dingy basement room beneath than believing that “we have…become an old Ontario church” with men superior to our fellows and earned God’s who studied the Bible, prayed, approval” (The United Church Observer, and made church decisions. As usual, he November 1979, pp. 28–29). asked a man to close in prayer, and then In the movie Lilies of the Field a cafe “listened aghast as one owner works as a of them thanked God we “I, his minister, silently, volunteer on a chapel were not as other men.” building. He says he “He was partly right, thanked God I was superior doesn’t believe farther of course,” said Forrest. to him. If not in character, at than his wallet, but “if “We were different from least in education. I had been they are right, I have others…Yet all the same paid my insurance.” How he thanked God that he to college. I knew better.” many people expect to go – A. C. Forrest to heaven because they, and we were better than those in the community like the businessman, who broke God’s law, profaned the Lord’s have acted decently?

Day, and never came to church. And I, Yes, we are to live decently, but resting his minister, silently, thanked God I was in our decency is a dead-end. Throughout superior to him. If not in character, at least the book of Galatians the Apostle Paul is in education. I had been to college. I knew concerned to have the Church move away better.” from the shaky ground of human decency Commenting on the Parable of the to the wondrous grace of Christ.

Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke Moving from decency to grace can be a 18:9–15), Forrest says “spiritual pride and tough move. Decency is deceptive. Isn’t it T self-righteousness is insidious.” Nothing decent of me to tell you that? M makes a Christian more offensive than Terry M. Smith

Polity and practice

J

ohn Dow, a professor at Emmanuel College, wrote in the 1940s “that God has guided His Church to many forms and blessed each one as it met the peculiar need which called it into being.” We might not say it quite so strongly.

However, churches display varying styles of organization (polity), all claiming to be based on or in accordance with Scripture.

If we want other congregations to be held accountable, are we equally willing to be accountable?

Within our conference’s style of organization, the EMC discussed churchconference relationships at our December 2006 conference council. Three key words seem to be autonomy, interdependence, and accountability.

Congregations need autonomy, the

freedom to be self-governing in some areas. The Protestant Reformation was an extreme example of the Church reclaiming a biblical direction, and thereby setting aside Catholic authority.

Yet churches need to balance this with interdependence. A Baptist official told me that within the circles he moves interdependence is being explored. An overemphasis on local church autonomy makes it difficult, he said, to intervene when a pastor takes a local church in a questionable direction.

Accountability is needed by conference and churches. This raises the question of mutual accountability: If we want other congregations to be held accountable, are we equally willing to be accountable?

When it comes to church organization, actions reveal much. What do our actions T say? M Terry M. Smith THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

Dr. Al Hiebert heads CHEC Dr. Al Hiebert has been named the first executive director of the recently formed organization, Christian Higher Education Canada. He has served in leadership positions in Christian higher education, including in Steinbach Bible College (high school), Providence College & Seminary, and Briercrest College & Seminary.

He assumed the position of executive director on March 1, 2007.

Hiebert holds degrees from New York University, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and the University of Manitoba. He and his wife Lorna are the parents of two grown children. He

will work from his home in Manitoba.

CHEC is a non-profit association of higher education institutions, based in Markham, Ontario, that is associated with the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. Members include 34 institutions representing a broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate Christian higher education within Canada. CHEC’s mission is to advance Christian higher education, foster institutional cooperation, and raise public awareness of the value of Christian Higher Education in Canada (www.checanada.ca).

Dr. Hiebert is an ordained EMC minister.

CHEC/EMC

Dr. Al Hiebert

Entertainment The National Youth Committee is pleased to have The Panic Squad and Leland Klassen coming to our event this May. The Panic Squad is Andrew Bright, Cliff Prang and Scott Campbell… three seemingly ordinary guys who combine their love for entertaining with unique improv powers as they perform hilarious, out-of-thin-air comedy. The Panic Squad is determined to send a strong message: “Comedy can be clean AND exceptional. It can be wholesome AND ridiculous-crazy-funny!”

Recognized as Canada’s premier clean comedian, Leland Klassen decided early on that he would not compromise his act to go for cheap, easy, shock humour. As a result of staying clean Leland has carved out quite the niche for himself in the world of comedy.

Pray for these guys as they travel and come to Abundant Springs to entertain the youth as well as minister to them through the use of their gifts.

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

coming events March 16–17 Follow the Lamb: Revelation and Worship SBC Leadership Conference Speaker: J. Nelson Kraybill Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. 204-326-6451, ext. 222 www.sbcollege.ca March 16–17 Integrating Faith and Business in a Fast-Paced Economy MEDA Mini-Conference Calgary, Alta.

800-665-7026 March 29–30 Breakaway Providence College Otterburne, Man. 800-668-7768 or www.prov.ca April 12 Prophets and Profits U. of M. professor Fred Starke MEDA, Winnipeg chapter Bergmann’s on Lombard at noon Winnipeg, Man. Cost: $20 (lunch included) 204-487-2328, ext. 228 April 14 Manitoba MDS Spring Banquet North Kildonan MB Church Winnipeg, Man. Tickets: $10 204-261-1274 April 14 Stepping Out of the Boat: Risking New Approaches to Conflict 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Micah House Catholic Centre for Social Justice Winnipeg, Man. 204-452-2227, ext. 227 204-233-8911, ext. 226 April 20 SBC Spring Concert Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. 204-326-6451 May 7–9 Talking About the Tough Stuff: Using Dialogue to Deal with Difficult Issues in the Church Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 204-953-3865 www.cmu.ca

3

A great honour

Is Your Testimony Worth

Sharing?

A

Rolf Kruse

nd make sure you write it in an interesting way. Your testimony is important and people will want to hear it. So, after your introduction, make sure you tell the story of how you met Christ, including what it means to be a Christian,” I say to my class in Ethiopia.

“Then in conclusion, wrap it up by explaining the significance of it all. If you’ve done it well, then they’ll go home remembering the main point of what you were saying. And what was the main point to be?”

A pause and then Marko speaks up: “We want them to know what a difference Jesus has made in our lives.”

“Right, that’s what we want them to know. That’s what our testimony is about. And since it is about Jesus, it has a chance of penetrating even the hardest of exteriors.”

“

4

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

T

he last lesson we had in the TEE (theological education by extension) class was on writing and sharing our testimonies. Members of the group have written theirs before, but never in enough detail to actually share who Christ is and what he has done in their lives. It has only been written for me because it was a course requirement. Now I want them to get serious. Choose a real audience; write a testimony in order to tell others about Him. Perhaps the best examples of testimonies are those of Peter and the other disciples in Jerusalem after Pentecost. They are filled with the Spirit who enables them to speak boldly. Thousands listen with interest to hear them share what in subsequent centuries have become known as boring personal stories or fillers.

Some, like my friend Philip, an evangelist here in Sherkole, says it’s because it isn’t delivered with the right enthusiasm. Others might say it’s because one’s testimony isn’t interesting enough. Both suggestions might be misleading.

It’s about Jesus First of all, a testimony is not about us; it’s about Jesus. What Jesus has accomplished in dying and being raised to life is the whole point. Marko, the fellow in my TEE class, knows that it’s Jesus’ story spoken from his personal experience that has a chance at getting through to his people.

Though Christians have been present among Marko’s tribe for the past 50 years, it seems that little social change has been effected by their humble presence. We keep praying along with the Mabaan that many more would come to know Christ in a real relationship. You can’t imagine what a change that would make.

Remembering the change What I mean is that you forget what a change has been made in your own life because you’ve been a Christian for so long. Remembering what life was like before is not easy perhaps because, as in my case, you became a Christian when you were seven. Or perhaps because you can’t see any measurable difference in your life since you still struggle with many of the same temptations as before.

If that is so, then we aren’t looking very hard. Romans 15:1–3 speak to us here: “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbour for his good, to build him

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

up. For even Christ did not please himself, but as it is written: ‘the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.’”

“We who are strong”? That’s supposed We share with others to be you, isn’t it? It is those proverbial others what Christ is doing in our who are pillars of the faith; lives so that they can be those who encourage and teach us. I am saying it is built up—believers, nontime that we all become believers, people you know, teachers. Obviously not and anyone you meet. with the attitude that we are the strong ones, but rather with the humble awareness that Christ is at work in our lives.

We share with others what Christ is doing in our lives so that they can be built up—believers, nonbelievers, people you know, and anyone you meet.

That my testimony might be “uninteresting” is not an excuse for me, since I’ve begun to teach my students the importance of sharing it.

This means I have to get going and be more deliberate about sharing what Christ has done or is doing in my life. I want to know that I’m practicing what I’m preaching. And, as James says, teachers will be judged more strictly (James 3:1). That is really the least of it.

Once I heard a preacher say that delivering sermons was important for him to do so that he didn’t forget the gospel. You might say it’s important to do so that he doesn’t lose his job. When we stop the daily spiritual disciplines in our lives we cease to live in the spiritual realm. We forget the great work God is doing in our lives.

We don’t properly appreciate the great honour it is to be called his children. We miss the joy of the Lord and we fail to notice the opportunities to tell others about our Lord.

No magic formula So far I’ve confined testimony to life story and no doubt there are effective ways of practicing and delivering that story. Many people will probably not respond to it in any particular way, good or bad. It is still worth telling.

Tim, a friend of mine, who was sharing his testimony with his unsaved father, came to the end of the telling and felt the awkward silence. Then because he didn’t have a plan B, he went back to the beginning and told it all over again. His Dad received the Lord.

5

Testimony also refers to our lives in the present; it is not merely confined to the past. It is about obedience and faithfulness to the Lord, which in itself is a powerful testimony.

Obviously the key was not in the delivery and I’m not proposing that we try to find some magic formula. What I am suggesting is that we try sharing it so many times and with so many unlikely people that we get used to awkward silences and start to listen to what God is teaching us through it all.

Testimony also refers to our lives in the present; it is not merely confined to the past. It is about obedience and faithfulness to the Lord, which in itself is a powerful testimony. Our skeptical friends may need to observe this obedience for several years. My friend Tim’s lifestyle was evident to his Dad, so his words could be easily verified. He couldn’t have hidden anything from his dad and must surely have admitted his past mistakes.

Our testimony is necessarily transparent and can include details we deem appropriate, but which may be embarrassing to us—for example, not being perfect, as none of us are. We needn’t wait for perfection to share our testimony. Obedience is a testimony to those who are watching our lives. When they hear us speak and they see a life that matches our words, then that is the most T powerful testimony of all. M Rolf Kruse (Kola) serves in Sherkole Refugee Camp, Ethiopia, with SIM.

stewardship today Gary Sawatzky

How do we view giving?

H

ow often do we as humans look at a situation and make a hurried judgment call based solely on our vantage point?

Others may look at the same situation and see it differently. Is one perspective more right than the other? Probably not, but it is different. Our own limited viewpoints can become a problem when we look at others and decide how they should act, do, be, without trying to understand the situation from their perspective.

Giving is an important part of worship and obedience to God. It is a reflection of our commitment to our faith.

Too many isolated viewpoints can lead to unnecessary disagreements and dissensions, but listening and learning will help us see the whole.

Jesus told the story of a widow who gave a gift from her limited resources (Luke 21:1–4). He praised the widow for her silent gift and denounced the rich for their overt gifts.

6

It is interesting to see that Jesus did not worry about the size of the gift, but only the manner in which it was presented. Giving is an important part of worship and obedience to God. It is a reflection of our commitment to our faith.

But how do we view giving? Is it a duty? Does it meet a need? Do we give from our abundance? Does it flow from the heart? Do we give sacrificially? We will each view giving differently, yet God wants each of us to be generous. So what is right for you?

Pray about giving, seek counsel, ask what others do, examine your situation. Remember: Giving is not about T impressions, it is about expressions. M For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office.

Abbotsford – Dave Kroeker, 1-888-212-8608; Calgary – Gary Sawatzky, 1-877-717-0708; Niagara – Darren PriesKlassen, 1-888-212-8731; Kitchener – Mike Strathdee, Sheri Grosz, 1-888-212-7759; Winnipeg – Edwin Friesen, 1-800772-3257.

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

with our missionaries Nicaragua

VBS and Alberta work team

Jesus said, “Apart from me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5). God worked in the hearts of about 100 willing VBS volunteers to accomplish a huge outpouring of blessings, as they faithfully taught the Word in 20 communities here in Nicaragua.

With one photocopied guide per community the Vacation Bible School teachers taught more than 2,000 children during the third and fourth weeks in January. The Christian Education Committee wishes to thank all the Canadian churches and Sunday schools that contributed to this project.

First of all they were able to have a day of training for the volunteers and further to provide teaching materials, some crayons, glue and scissors to each community where VBS was held. There are always two agents at work in every fruitful work, willing workers and a faithful God. They say, “God bless you” and thank you so much.

and Shyanne Neudorf each helped in a different class throughout the week.

On Friday morning they baked sugar cookies to hand out at the closing exercises. The men’s part was to provide the piñata and enjoy the enthusiastic event as photographers. It was a common sight to see them all playing with the children before and after the classes. It was a wonderful way of sharing God’s love with needy children.

It was like another part of their vision came to life before their eyes.

Wally Wiebe and David Buhler plane boards for bunk beds.

It was the privilege of the first work team from Alberta to witness and be part of the VBS held at the orphanage site. More than 80 children enrolled.

Diane Blanchette, Miranda Froese,

The work team from Alberta consists of Henry Froese, Sheldon Krahn, Phillip Friesen, Wally Wiebe, David Buhler, Diane Blanchette, Miranda Froese and Shyanne Neudorf. They spent January 25 to February 9 at Gethsemane Orphanage, Diriamba.

When they arrived

Darlene Olfert, Miranda Froese, Shyanne Neudorf, Diane Blanchette, and Marisol Gutierrez paint tin for the roof.

the walls of the girls’ dormitory building were already up. The volunteers helped install the electricity, “score” the walls for a finishing cement coat, paint the kitchen, put up the entire roof, and helped build 10 bunk beds. The wood for the beds had to be planed, which was a difficult task due to the quality of the wood.

At the farewell the Orphanage board choked up with tears as they expressed thanks. It was like another part of their vision came to life before their eyes.

They were particularly moved and grateful to see the 10 beautiful pine bunk beds, ready to receive the first children as the project develops.

Continue to pray for the board and the project. They now have legal government status as an organization. They, however, still need to be recognized by the Ministry of Family Services.

That is the reason for the pilot project, which includes the 17 children that are in the program at present. This program is being assessed by a team of professionals in order to be received into a working program with Mi Familia (My Family), which is the government arm that will ultimately approve the children to be admitted into the orphanage.

Darlene Olfert

Suyen Vado teaches a Bible story at VBS with Diane Blanchette as a helper.

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

Oaxaca, Mexico

Sitting calmly in Zapotec translation

The Zapotec language has several hundred verbs which include parts of the body: the face, ears, mouth, hand and the heart, to name a few. One of these verbs is re besi leri’i; which literally means “our heart sits slowly/calmly.”

To the Zapotecs re besi leri’i describes a person who does not easily get irritated or quickly respond negatively to something.

We use this verb when translating such ideas as quietness of spirit, being peace loving, and for words such as endurance, tolerance and patience.

This verb describes the Zapotecs very well: They always take time to consider a matter, talking about it so broadly at first that I, as a non-native speaker of Zapotec, often don’t know what they’re talking about. When they finally get to the details, these are repeated many times.

The Zapotecs are usually not in a hurry to get from one event in their lives to the next. When they go on an errand to someone’s house, Zapotec etiquette requires that one must visit first before stating the purpose of the visit.

Over the years as I have lived in Mexico, I have learned much about patience, enjoying the moment, taking time to be with people, celebrating, and putting aside my precious agenda for the day in order to be a part of something else. But in spite of all that, re besi leri’i really does not describe me.

I am still far too time-conscious and impatient, wanting things to move along, wanting to accomplish my goals. It’s ironic that God should have put me among people who are usually not in a hurry.

Recently my co-worker Joan and I had only nine days to spend in the village of Santa Ana. I wanted two of my Zapotec friends to read the recently translated book of Acts with me so I could check how well it communicated. Since the crops are now in and the Zapotecs won’t be planting until the rains come again some time in May, I knew this was a good time to read.

I am still far too time-conscious and impatient, wanting things to move along, wanting to accomplish my goals. It’s ironic that God should have put me among people who are usually not in a hurry.

I felt like God was blessing these plans when one of these friends showed up at our house the day we arrived in the village and I could talk to her straight away about reading Acts. The other had already read about half of the book with me on a previous visit so I thought my goals for this village visit were attainable.

But they weren’t.

One of my friends loves the Word of God and reading Scripture with her often turns into a Bible study. The first day we also spent time talking about a problem she had, so we read only Acts 1. The next day we read chapter two. Day three we didn’t read at all. Day four she had to go to Oaxaca City.

And so it went—the burro had to be fed, tortillas patted, clothes washed and mother-in-law’s goats had to be herded.

We ended up reading only the first four chapters. My other friend, who is not a fast reader, read only to Acts 21:36.

So now I’m trying to figure out when Joan and I will next be able to go to the village to finish checking Acts. As for my heart, is it sitting calmly? Patience is, after all, one of the fruits of the Spirit.

Grace Thiessen Grace Thiessen (Steinbach) works to translate Scripture into the Yareni Zapotec and Aloapam Zapotec languages in the state of Oaxaca, southern Mexico. There are about a half million speakers of Zapotec, a language family with about 50 variants.

Grace has been working in linguistics and Scripture translation since 1979. She holds an M.A. in linguistics from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Discovery Days, March 28–29, is intended for students in grade 11 and up to you see what life atyour SBC isexperience all about. Students will experience college Did enjoy at SBC?? life in dorm, in classes, and have the opportunity to meet some of the Encourage to dive in to thisin life-changing experience!! students theyothers could be studying with fall 2007!

Grace Thiessen reads with Yolanda.

8

Discovery Days, March is full-time intended at forSBC students in grade All students who apply 28-29, to study

by March 29 11 and upattend to see Discovery what life atDays SBCwill is all about.a $125 Students willdiscount. experience and receive tuition college life in dorm, in classes, and have the opportunity to meet some of the students they could be studying with in fall 2007!

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

“Discovery Days was an awesome time for me to get to know the school and some of the students. It really helped open my eyes to

Central Asia

Kingdom growth amidst moral decay

Observing shiny new cars, and streets torn up for waterworks improvement, eating tasty shish-kebabs, hugging an orphan, playing games at a youth centre, offering my shoulders for workers to cry on. This kaleidoscope of experiences was the setting for my three-week glimpse into Kingdom growth in Central Asia in October 2006.

There are signs of economic progress as new waterworks and cars suggest; there are also signs of moral decay.

The poor are getting poorer with unemployment as high as 40 to 80 percent in the villages. More alcohol and drug abuse causes more domestic violence, women enter prostitution to feed their children, and children run away to escape abuse.

Through prayer Grace received inner healing of her abusive past.

She was so released that her feet fairly flew, returning home to her Christian orphanage established just prior to the conference.

Abused children often opt for the independence of living on the street, quickly entering their own world of bondage, sniffing glue, doing drugs and selling their bodies to perpetrate their new abusive habits. Where is the kingdom of God in this moral decay?

The Kingdom of God is seen in the humble but passionate example of Grace, a follower of Jesus. Grace, herself a victim of sexual abuse, attended our

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

Central Asia Women’s Conference last year, a conference that equips Central Asian women to be the hands and feet of Jesus to their own underprivileged.

Seminars were held on abuse, human trafficking, HIV/AIDS, bride kidnapping, ministry to prostitutes, along with spiritual growth and inner healing; they provide the setting for women to share their own stories of abuse, of freedom through Jesus, and of God moving them into ministry to others suffering injustices.

Through prayer Grace received inner healing of her abusive past.

She was so released that her feet fairly flew, returning home to her Christian orphanage established just prior to the conference. She’d seen the plight of village children, Flo Friesen (St. Vital/Kleefeld) is co-leading the many with single or no parents. third annual Central Asia Women’s Conference Her God-dreams had escalated. in March 2007. Accompanying her as a prayer Refreshed, she began to pray. team in ministry to women are Marion Warkentin She’d already been given a three- (Steinbach) and Wilma Barkman (Kleefeld). story run-down kindergarten building by the government. First, God to the downtrodden. Isaiah 58 has come provided funds to fix the roof, then the to life as the naked are clothed and the heating system, and finally the dining hungry are given food. The Kingdom of room and bedrooms. On our visit we met God is here!

Our traditional vision of a church the 27 children in her care.

Her dreams include rehabilitating the plant may not include 27 children in an parents so the children can return home, orphanage, but Jesus placed high value setting up an entire floor for disabled on ministering to the “least of these.” As children, having a day care for children these children grow in the practical love of working mothers, and setting up a of Jesus they will bring others, including training centre for teenagers to learn life their parents, to Jesus.

The Kingdom of God is here in Central skills so they don’t turn to prostitution Asia! and drugs.

Flo Friesen Her face beamed as she shared the heart God had given her for this ministry

9

Silk Road

God’s mighty hand in a nation

My first four years of serving God along the Great Silk Road were somewhat dry and empty. It is not easy to live in a strange land, far from the familiar supports of friends and family. Then one summer a couple who had been in Colombia for twenty years came to share their Godgiven wisdom on intercessory prayer to both foreign and local believers. We started meeting cross-organizationally with a prayer focus for the whole nation and not just personal needs.

As God met with us, I found my oasis at last. He blessed our unity and desire by showing us His heart and will. At the same time, six local pastors began inviting believers to be “Watchmen” for the nation. As they traveled around a nation of less than 10,000 believers, they raised up 1,000 dedicated people of prayer. Encouraged by their vision, I helped to raise up 1,000 “Watchmen” through a church partnership in North America.

Shortly after this time we sensed a shift in political pressure and became aware that our time as foreigners was short. Interestingly, before this shift some local pastors had seen a vision of a mountain that had many beautiful buildings on it. Next, they saw a storm that caused rocks to smash most of the buildings to the ground.

With God’s help, they realized that it was a picture of foreign organizations being forcibly removed from their nation.

When they told our group, we began to pray that our visas be extended until His tasks for us were complete. After four years of being in a dry land, I was just starting to see God’s rain coming to this desert steppe (plain). I wanted to help prepare the church for it; I didn’t want to leave now.

One month later, we had a stirring retreat weekend where most foreign workers became more intentional and bold in pursuing a movement of God for our land. Within the next two years we were able to see a solid foundation laid.

Small mobile Bible colleges were handed over to well-trained local leaders, the church grew more than ever and a nation-wide network of house churches was established for on-going accountability and encouragement. God has begun an amazing work that will carry on without a foreigner presence.

Just as some foreigners were beginning to feel that they should leave soon so

10

that the church would not become dependent on us, the pastors’ prophecy became reality. It had been two years of wondering how long we would all be able to stay and now a time of systematic deportations of foreign organizations and their workers began.

The church grew more than ever and a nation-wide network of house churches was established for on-going accountability and encouragement. God has begun an amazing work that will carry on without a foreigner presence.

After our organization was shut down our lawyer met one last time with the government official who made the decision to remove us, and God’s mighty hand in the affairs of this world became obvious once again. Frustrated, the official secretly shared with the lawyer: “We decided two years ago to kick out these foreigners and it has taken us this long to get it done.”

A Follower of Jesus

For security reasons, the worker and the country are best not identified. Photo is courtesy of DesignPics.

Preaching the Psalms – Pierre Gilbert Understanding Islam Today: Ministering among Muslims – Gordon Nickel May 22–26 Pastoral Care and Counselling – Daniel Schipani May 28–June 1 Identity and Faith – Michael Hryniuk | Advanced Youth Ministry Course All courses available for credit or audit April 23–27 May 14–18

Check out our website for more information and application

www.ministrystudies.ca 500 Shaftesbury Blvd. | Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2 | Tel: 204-487-3300 | Fax: 204-837-7415

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

with our churches

Christmas celebrated Crestview (Winnipeg, Man.): On September 17, 2006, a long-time member of our church, Robert Wiebe, was commissioned as our new youth director. Conference Youth Minister Gerald Reimer was present for the commissioning and together with pastor Vern Knutson welcomed Rob into his official ministerial role.

Following the service, a potluck lunch was held for the congregation and the many visitors who attended to support Rob and his family on this very important day.

Two baby dedications took place in the fall. The first was on September 3, 2006, for Reuben Selmer, son of Pastor Vern and Lana Knutson. The dedication was directed by Robert Wiebe and Gord Doerksen, the chairman of our church board. The second baby dedication took place on October 22, 2006, for Savannah

Jade, daughter of Dane and Dayle Ritchot.

We look forward to watching these children mature and grow in God’s love.

We currently have many small children in our church and our Sunday school will soon be large and vibrant, but at present our Sunday school group is relatively small. It was decided that, instead of putting the burden of the Christmas program solely on this small group, everyone in the church was welcomed to contribute with a short skit, Rob Wiebe and Gord Doerksen with newly-dedicated song or poem.

The program went well with a nice Reuben Knutson and his parents Pastor Vern and mix of performances. To name just a Lana and sister Olivia Knutson. few: The youngest children sang a Christmas carol, seniors shared memories of childhood Christmases, a poem from Mary’s view, and a guitar solo.

Following the program everyone was invited to stay for a light supper and fellowship. It was a memorable evening and a great way to celebrate the birth of our Christ.

Janis Fleury Pastor Vern Knutson and CYM Gerald Reimer with Jesse, Priscilla, Taylor, and youth pastor Robert Wiebe.

Ministers and members serving Dayle and Dane Ritchot with daughter Savannah

births REIMER – to Isaac and Tina Reimer of Coaldale, Alta., a daugher, Julia Isabel, on January 24, 2007.

WOLFE – to Jason and Jennifer Wolfe of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Annalynne Marie, on January 25, 2007.

THIESSEN – to Chuck and Laura Thiessen of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Savannah River, on February 3, 2007.

weddings HONSBERGER – HAMM: Eric, son of Murray and Carol Honsberger of Papua New Guinea, and Kara, daughter of Stan and Bev Hamm of Blumenort, Man., were married on June 3, 2006 at Ridgewood EMC. The couple lives in Steinbach, Man.

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

Rosenort, Man.: Ministers Don Dueck and Bryan Loewen agreed to serve in leadership for five more years after votes of affirmation by our membership and Greg Kroeker, Trevor Friesen, and Alex Loewen are continuing to be trained for leadership.

Our ministerial went on a retreat January 19 and 20 at Winkler Bible Camp and enjoyed devotionals by Jake Friesen.

Our church lost a gentleman of faith when brother Henry K. Dueck passed away January 21. We remember him enthusiastically challenging our youth with his testimony of commitment to Christ made in eager response to a Winnipeg United Church Sunday School teacher’s invitation. We’re certain he is enjoying seeing the River of Life and worshipping his Creator face to face!

We were pleased to accept Dave and Anna Friesen in a membership transfer from Mount Salem EMC. They are quite involved in ministry to children in our church.

Church members Kerry and Jo Eidse recently served as MDS project directors in Diamond, Plaquemines Parish, New

Orleans. You are welcome to check out their blog at http://kjeidse.blogspot.com.

Anne Loewen, together with other volunteers, has been busy gathering and shipping children’s clothing, soaps, and small containers for Dave and Judy Schmidt’s HIV/AIDS ministry. Chuck and Luella Brandt are currently in Paraguay helping with the building project (see http://altorefugio.org/en).

The EMC ladies of the local churches have sewed together hundreds of school bags for Samaritan’s Purse in the last three weeks of February, and many gathered again at Rosenort EMC on February 26 and 27 to create a beautiful quilt for the MCC sale that will be held in Morris in September.

Lorilee Scharfenberg

Correction: In the book review of Living with a Killer by Erna Dueck (Feb. 21, 2007), the proper author photo credit is to Frank Yong Photography. My error.

— Editor

11

Gary Herrfort is new pastor Tillsonburg, Ont.: In November 2006 the elders asked Gary and Susan Herrfort for serving as pastor and they accepted a part-time position for now and see how it goes. With having a building project as well, it may become plentiful.

On January 21, 2007, Pastor Gary had his first message: To God be the Glory. He shared his testimony on how Christ had knocked on his door. The elders went up and prayed for the family, and with hungry hearts were ready for his words of comfort from the Scripture.

Gary and Susan Herrfort, Lydia, Christy

Someone said this week, “When Pastor Gary showed up at men’s prayer morning, I was encouraged, but when he led in prayer, I was spiritually moved (blessed). I can pray and I think that I do all right, but when I heard Pastor Gary pray at the prayer time in the morning serve, I knew that we were blessed to have the Herrforts in our church congregation.”

Susan plays piano and she has already blessed us as well.

Our time without a pastor has God was just “changing pastures” in been spiritually challenging—in a good way. We have stretched our church, for the better of ourselves ourselves more out of the and the brethren beside us! We comfortable zone and have gained more wisdom and appreciation have much to praise God for. for each other and for the great congregation of the church.

All this was kind of like God’s leading us from a comfortable pasture, through a fence (hard time of being without a pastor), and then into a different new pasture (when our church received a new pastoral couple); there, where other blessings and challenges wait for us and we are anxious to grow in Christ.

God was just “changing pastures” in our church, for the better of ourselves and the brethren beside us! We have much to praise God for, and we would truly appreciate your prayers as we grow in Christ in the leadership of Gary and Susan.

The Herrforts live in Tillsonburg.

Gary’s ordination service will be on March 25, 4 p.m., at Cuthbertson Hall (part of Avondale Zion United Church, 59 Harvey St.), our regular meeting place in Tillsonburg.

Marge Sawatzky

Christmas program 2006 (above right and below)

Parent-child dedication: (left) John and Helen Neufeld with new son Noah Joel; (right) Cathy and George Krahn with new son Michael Damion.

12

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

Under construction inside and out Kola, Man.: The sound of men hard at work has been filling the air recently, as they work on building an addition to Kola church building. The extension to the foyer has been built, as well as the area where our new library will be. Other renovations will include the removal of the balcony, a new kitchen, more washrooms, and a larger pastor’s office.

Having been without a youth pastor for over a year now, we are very excited to have Will and Sarah Rose taking that position.

The biggest task will be building the fellowship hall. This will be used for activities such as Thanksgiving dinners, wedding receptions, and, of course, the one thing dear to all Mennonites’ hearts: Potlucks!

We held our annual Missions Conference the last weekend in October.

The main speaker for the weekend was Ernie Koop. Joanne Martens and Cathy Thiessen also shared about the

KATHERINE (TINA) PENNER 1915–2007

I have fought a good fight; I have finished the course and have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me— the crown of righteousness which the Lord Himself shall give me (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Our mother Katherine Penner received her crown from the Heavenly Father on Monday, January 22, 2007, at 8:45 p.m.

She died peacefully at the age of 91 at the St. Adolphe Nursing Home with her five daughters at her side one week after she suffered a stroke.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters and their families: Corinne and Sid Reimer of Landmark, Elaine and

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

ministries they’re involved in. The theme of the weekend was Perseverance through Persecution. Saturday night we were blessed with a group from the Ebenezer church in Brandon who came and led the praise and worship time in Spanish.

On December 10 we had our Christmas program. This was a fun evening with lots of different items. We have a large population of people who speak German as their first language and so there were quite a few songs and verses done in German, especially by the younger classes. There were a couple of humourous plays put on by the teen

Ernie Koop

classes, and the adult classes performed a variety of music/skits.

Having been without a youth pastor for over a year now, we are very excited to have Will and Sarah Rose taking that position. They moved here the middle of January with their three young children.

Will will cover the main position, but they both say it will be a team effort.

They also plan to start a junior youth program, something our church has never had before. We are grateful that God has brought them here.

Courtney Kliever

Cathy Thiessen

Art Rempel of Steinbach, Doris Penner of Landmark, Eleanor and Roger Gingerich of Steinbach, and Celia and Grant Plett of Winnipeg. The family includes 16 grandchildren and their spouses, and 25 great-grandchildren.

She also leaves to mourn her passing sisters-in-law, Margaret Reimer, Helen Andres, and Ruby (and Archie) Plett, as well as brother-in-law Archie Penner and wife Elvira.

Mom was predeceased by her beloved husband Walter in 1992, her parents Heinrich and Helena Reimer, and 12 siblings.

Mom was born March 31, 1915, to Heinrich R. and Helena (Dueck) Reimer at Clearsprings close to Steinbach, Man. At the age of four, she moved with the family to Prairie Rose (now Landmark) where her father became the pastor of a fledgling church under the Kleine Gemeinde (Evangelical Mennonite Conference).

Along with her brothers and sisters, Mom grew up in a happy chaotic household, encouraged by her parents to work hard but take time for play, to learn through reading—there were plenty of books at her disposal—and to live in obedience to God.

Joanne Martens

On October 1, 1938, in a ceremony officiated at by her father on the Reimer family farm, Mom married Dad, already an established farmer at age 29. Two years later, they built a new home on the Main Road, where they raised their family. Quite early on, Dad began a lumber business which took the whole family north to Steeprock or Loon Straits every winter.

Mom was a staunch believer in Jesus Christ until her dying hour. She led an exemplary life of obedience and faith, trusting implicitly in God’s grace in all situations.

In 1994 Mom moved to the Prairie Rose Apartments where she spent 12 happy years. In May 2006, she experienced a stroke which took away her eyesight and some of her short-term memory. After a bout at Bethesda Hospital, she moved to the St. Adolphe Nursing Home, where she made many friends.

Funeral services for Katherine Penner took place on January 29 at the Prairie Rose Evangelical Mennonite Church in Landmark with interment at the church cemetery.

Her Family

13

LENA KEHLER (nee ENNS) 1924–2007

Peacefully, on May 4, 2006, with her family by her side, Lena Kehler passed away to be with her Lord and Saviour. Lena is survived by six children, 17 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren: Nancy and Jerry Friesen of Rosenort, Man., and their children; Orville and Jenni Kehler of Rosenort, and their children; Angela and Peter Siemens of Rosenort, Man., and their children; Rebecca and Don Reimer of Mitchell, Man., and son Dustin; Christine and Jim Warkentin of Yorkton, Sask., and their children; Paul and Lisa Kehler of Steinbach, Man., and their children.

She also leaves one sister, Anne Krueger of Steinbach, and one brother, Paul Enns of Tampa, Florida. She was predeceased by one daughter, Mary Jane, in infancy; one grandson, Adam Kehler, in infancy; and one brother, Erwin Enns.

Lena was born in South Russia on May 1, 1924, and immigrated to Canada with her parents Isaac and Helena Enns and younger sister Annie. They settled in Morris, Man., where Mom spent her youth. She enjoyed working side-by-side with her father, who owned the Morris

ANTON KEHLER 1920–2007

Peacefully, on May 7, 2006, with family by his side, Anton Kehler passed away to be with his Lord and Saviour. Anton is survived by six children, 17 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren: Nancy and Jerry Friesen of Rosenort, Man., and their children; Orville and Jenni Kehler of Rosenort, and their children; Angela and Peter Siemens of Rosenort, Man., and their children; Rebecca and Don Reimer of Mitchell, Man., and son Dustin; Christine and Jim Warkentin of Yorkton, Sask., and their children; Paul and Lisa Kehler of Steinbach, Man., and their children.

He is also survived by two sisters, Olga and Arnold Pokrant of Altona, Man.; and Annie Gunn of Sherwood Park, Alta.

He was predeceased by his wife Lena on May 4, 2006; one daughter, Mary Jane, in infancy; one grandson, Adam Kehler, in infancy; and two brothers, Arnold and Edwin.

Anton was born on November 25, 1920, and raised in the village of Altona, Man. As a farm boy he enjoyed many hours of helping out with the chores and teasing his sisters Annie and Olga.

Dad met Mom, Lena Kehler, in Morris in 1948 and they were married on October 16, 1949. They spent the first 20 years at Altona, where Dad worked for D. W. Friesens. Here the family grew from two

14

Jewellery Store. Spending time boating on the Morris River, playing piano for her church, or just enjoying spending time with her friends, and her siblings Annie, Erwin, and Paul, kept Mom very happy. Sadly, in 1947 her father died of tuberculosis, and Lena took this very hard.

Mom met Dad in 1948 at a social function and they got married on October 16, 1949, in Morris. They spent their married years between Altona, Rosenort, and Steinbach, raising their six children.

Mom loved to knit sweaters and toques

for her 17 grandchildren. Many beautiful embroidered pictures and tablecloths were made for her girls. In early April, Mom’s health took a turn for the worse, as she suffered a number of strokes. On May 4, at Bethesda Hospital, Mom was relieved of her earthly suffering, and went home to be with her Lord and Saviour.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff on the first floor and the rehabilitation department at the Bethesda Hospital for their gentle care of Mom. We would also like to thank the home care staff at Woodhaven, which had been a great blessing to Mom and Dad. We would also like to express thanks for the pastoral visits, the extended help we have received in planning two funerals, and for all of the prayers, cards, food, and visits during this time of loss.

The funeral service was held at the Evangelical Mennonite Church, Steinbach, at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 12. The service was officiated by Rev. John Dyck and Rev. Ben Friesen. Interment at Heritage Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee. Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach.

Her Family

Lena and Anton Kehler

to eight. Dad then took a job in Rosenort as Co-op store manager for the next seven years. He later accepted a job in Steinbach as manager of Robinson stores, where he stayed till 1985. Dad served on many church boards, committees, and MCC. In August of 1995, Dad suffered a major heart attack. Together with his diabetes, his health greatly deteriorated. On May 7, 2006, Dad was relieved of his suffering and went home to be with his Lord and Saviour.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff on the first floor of the Bethesda Hospital, and the home care staff at Woodhaven who have been a great blessing to Mom and Dad. We would also like to express thanks for the pastoral visits, and all the help we have received in planning two funerals. The family is very grateful for all of the prayers, cards, food, and visits during this time of loss.

The funeral service was officiated by Rev. John Dyck and Rev. Ben Friesen.

Viewing was held at the EMC church, Main Street, in Steinbach at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 11. The funeral service was held at the EM Church at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 12. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee.

Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach.

His Family

57th Annual EMC Convention July 6, 7 and 8, 2007 Keynote Speaker: Arley Loewen Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium 205 - 20th Street Brandon, Manitoba

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

shoulder tapping HILLSIDE CHRISTIAN Fellowship (EMC) is looking for a part-time youth worker to work at developing a youth program. HCF is a small, rural church south of La Crete in northern Alberta. Applicant needs to be in agreement with Anabaptist/Mennonite theology.

He will need to be highly flexible, self-motivated, and able to relate warmly to youth and junior youth.

Music skills would be a definite asset.

It will be a six-month position starting on May 1, 2007, with the possibility of becoming longer term. For information contact Russell Friesen 780-841-1747 or hcfc@telus.net.

BRIGHTWOOD RANCH Camp is connected with Hope Mission (Edmonton, Alta.) and provides a summer camp experience for underprivileged children from Edmonton.

It requires paid summer camp staff (counselors, program directors, teepee village program director, training team leaders, head wrangler, maintenance assistant, assistant cook, assistant wranglers, nurse, and out-trip coordinator). Also needed are volunteers: junior counselors, kitchen staff, maintenance person and camp grandparents for a week or more.

Email: brightwood@hopemission.com or call 1-780-727-3840.

ABBEYDALE CHRISTIAN Fellowship in Calgary, Alta., seeks a full-time young life pastor who is passionate about ministering to and discipling youth and young adults. The individual should have a strong vision in these areas and work with ACF volunteers in developing and leading programs.

Strong organizational and communication skills as well as knowledge of current youth issues are required.

ACF is a medium-sized (180-220) congregation seeking to disciple members and attendees, encourage their gifts and involvement, and to reach out to the neighbourhood and families of church adherents.

Submit resumes to Young Life Search Committee: Email: searchcommittee@abbeydale. org; fax: 403-273-1467. Closing date: April 30, 2007.

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.

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.

MANITOBA HOUSE seeks a children’s program director. Manitoba House is an outreach to children aged five to 12 in Winnipeg’s North End. It is a registered day care and is open evenings and Saturdays for groups of up to eight children.

The director must have strong leadership skills and have the ability to communicate effectively.

THE MESSENGER March 7, 2007

The person for the job must love children and believe in the possibility of the salvation of children. The successful applicant will need to complete a police record check, pass the abuse registry check, and read and sign off on the Manitoba house abuse policy. For information contact: Steve Brown at 204-222-0797, 204-9817694, manitobahouse@shaw.ca.

FISH CREEK Christian Fellowship (EMC) is looking for a full-time pastor to begin this summer.

We are a 10-year-old congregation that currently meets at a university in south Calgary and have about 40 people attending with great potential for growth. Our focus is on reaching south Calgary.

Education and experience are flexible. For details and discussion please contact Dean Buhler, 1452 Lake Sylvan Dr. SE, Calgary, AB T2J 3C8; phone 403-271-5171 or e-mail kbuhler@telus.net.

KENOSEE LAKE Bible Camp, a CSSM camp located in beautiful Moose Mountain Provincial Park in southeast Saskatchewan, is seeking a camp manager (CSSM missionary) as soon as possible and two permanent seasonal (May to early September) positions (program director and camp secretary) beginning in the 2007 camping season.

Accommodation is available at the camp during the camping season. If you are enthusiastic about serving in a Christian camp setting, please forward your resume or inquiries to Marlon Klassen, 214 Doiron Road N., Regina, SK S4Y 1G4; kenoseerocks@sasktel.net; marlon. klassen@sasktel.net; phone 306-924-0129 or 306-848-0393.

STEINBACH BIBLE College invites applications for the position of Director of Development and Community Relations, an administrative position. The Director develops the philosophy and long-term strategy of development that includes operational giving, capital campaigns, planned giving, and endowment development.

The director develops and oversees all aspects of marketing and recruitment for the college including media advertising, church deputation, and recruitment strategy.

The successful candidate will have a background in donor development or business experience, effective administrative/leadership skills, relational skills, and work toward C.F.R.E. certification.

Position to begin April 1, 2007, or as soon as a suitable candidate is found. Job description will be sent upon request. Submit application with resumé and cover letter to Don Thiessen, Interim President, Steinbach Bible College, 50 PTH 12 N Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4; E-mail: dthiessen@ sbcollege.ca.

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 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 204-3261613, 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 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, 204-730-0409, e-mail: pashed@westman. wave.ca; or to Len Barkman, 204-326-6401, email: emclen@mts.net.

MCC CANADA is looking to fi ll the following volunteer leadership positions in Happy Valley/ Goose Bay, Labrador: Regional representatives, Newfoundland and Labrador Region. Position to begin July 1, 2007. The person or couple will be responsible for overseeing the MCC program in Newfoundland and Labrador. For the complete assignment description please see www.mcc.org.

For information contact Marsha Jones at 204-2616381 or email mgj@mennonitecc.ca.

GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP Church (EMMC), a congregation of about 120 in Steinbach, Man., seeks a full-time lead pastor confident in preaching, pastoral care, and visioning. Contact Bill Thiessen at 204-377-4464 or billnflo@mts.net for information.

CANADIAN MENNONITE University is accepting applications for a position in our maintenance department. A keen aptitude and experience in the area of general building repair and maintenance is required. Processing of applications will begin immediately, and continue until the position is fi lled. Please reply via mail to Susan Warkentin, Director of Human Resources, 500 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2, or e-mail swarkentin@cmu.ca. For details, visit www.cmu.ca.

15

A

I

Modern

Modest Proposal Jonathan Smith

n Africa we are having some troubles with the children of the continent. The orphanages are being over-run and more children’s parents are dying everyday from AIDS and other afflictions. The education system doesn’t allow the children to get an education, so they can’t succeed and the children are also not getting the medical care that they require.

Total number of orphans in Africa due to different circumstances in 2007: South Africa 1,200,000 Tanzania 1,100,000 Zimbabwe 1,100,000 Kenya 1,100,000 Uganda 1,000,000 Nigeria 930,000 Zambia 710,000 DR Congo 680,000 Malawi 550,000 As you can see, we have a huge problem with the number of orphans in quite a few countries. Instead of their being a burden to the country, I would propose that we use the children to become a liberating force for the good of the continent. They are small, curious, and powerful in numbers—there is a nearly innumerable amount of them.

At the same time, with 110 million land mines in 65 countries, I can see that we have an epidemic almost as large as HIV/AIDS. Multiple problems could be solved using the children.

We could use them to clear out the land mines that plague our countries. In doing this you would create untold of opportunity for growth in the infrastructure and in creating a safer place for everyone. They would not only create job opportunities to raise the standard of living, but they would also pave the way for a safer Africa.

I would propose that you would pay the children 50 cents a day for every day that they go out into the wilds and remove the land-mines. They are perfect for this

job and, if they get careless, there would be millions of others to come to fill in their places. The children would want to make money for their families, and in doing so would also pave the way for a better society free of the sleeping soldiers, which are hidden everywhere.

This is because in Africa land-mines kill, injure, and disable over 12,000 people per year. This number would be drastically cut down. If an orphan dies, no one would know—after all, they are just orphans. If they manage to survive even a single day, congratulate them and send them back into the fields for the next few days. If you think all the mines are taken care of, but are not sure, give them a soccer ball and tell them to play a game for victory over the mines.

Assuming that it will get the African council’s approval, I will present this initiative to the U.N. shortly.

I hope that this will get the recognition it deserves, and I hope that I will get the Nobel Prize that I deserve.

T Thank you for your time. M Jonathan Smith submitted a draft of this article for a Grade 12 English assignment at Steinbach Regional Secondary School. He attends Steinbach EFC.

Editor’s note: In 1729 Irish clergyman and satirist Jonathan Swift (1667–1745) wrote A Modest Proposal, in which he suggested that Ireland’s poor gain income by selling their children to be eaten. He got a strongly negative reaction by those who overlooked that the article was satirical (prose ridiculing vice or folly) and actually intended to help readers consider more appropriate measures to help those in need (see Wikipedia).

PAGE 16

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