The Messenger Vol .45 No. 8 April 8, 2007

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 45 NUMBER 8 APRIL 18, 2007

t u O g n i g n i h g n e c l l a a h c e n i R times A profile of Tilbury EMC

The

Messenger

Why discuss hell?

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EDITOR Terry M. Smith ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith.

Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request.

Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba.

Subscriptions: $12 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84). Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents.

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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. 10 – May 2 (copy due May 2)

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editorials he lead article is on hell. It’s written

by Dr. Pierre Gilbert, a Mennonite Brethren minister, university and seminary professor, and director of Winnipeg Centre for Ministry Studies.

Dr. Gilbert writes on many topics, so why on hell? For the reason any minister, in dealing with Scripture’s topics, needs to: Hell is referred to several times by Jesus (for instance, Mark 9:43–48). Will we let our Lord teach us about heaven and ignore what he says about hell?

If it were within our power, would we remove all mention of hell in Scripture and from our teaching and preaching?

It isn’t within our power, and upon whose authority would we remove it?

Some people say if there is a God and if there is a heaven, then everyone goes there and there is no hell. But such a person filled

with ifs about a future they do not know isn’t a reliable guide. We need, rather, to hear what Jesus says, and part of his teaching warns us against perishing eternally.

Jesus said, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”

(Mark 8:36, Matthew 16:26, Luke 9:25).

If it were within our power, would we remove all mention of hell in Scripture and from our teaching and preaching? It isn’t within our power, and upon whose authority would we remove it? The major issue behind hell is that humankind has been given a choice. If Christ, in his wisdom, gives us that freedom, who are we to take it away?

Many questions remain about hell and they aren’t to be oversimplified. Christians will discuss these matters and Dr. Gilbert’s article serves us well. Meanwhile, let’s reach out with the love of Christ who came T to give life, not death (John 3:16–18). M Terry M. Smith

Being a global faith community MWC vice president pleads for help for Zimbabwe (January 22, 2007) Prayer and solidarity for Zimbabwe (March 16, 2007) Crisis in Zimbabwe needs high level action (March 29, 2007)

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hat does it mean to be a global faith community?

This magazine often gets news from Mennonite World Conference, which is described as “a community of 97 member churches in 53 countries, representing approximately 1.5 million people”—and of which EMC is a part.

News varies from Assembly 15 planning in Paraguay (July 2009) to flooding in Indonesia, political unrest in the Democratic Republic of Congo, youth activities, churches from varying countries making connections, and books issued.

Recently, as well, there have been strong concerns expressed about Zimbabwe. On March 29, MWC General Secretary Larry Miller wrote to U.N. Secretary-General

Ban Ki-moon and African Union President John Kufuor, calling for “a more energetic response than the quiet diplomacy which has been ineffective” (see page 12).

Both silence and speaking entail risks.

However, the church in Zimbabwe has invited wider help through prayers and action. How do we take their request seriously?

Mennonite World Conference grapples with how to comment on what is happening within local situations. It recognizes that both silence and speaking entail risks. However, the church in Zimbabwe has invited wider help through prayers and action. How do we take their request seriously?

Being part of MWC doesn’t merely link us to others within the Mennonite-Anabaptist family. It involves us in wider responsibilities in administration, delegates, finances, T prayer, programs, concerns, and action. M Terry M. Smith

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writings shared Blessed Are the Pacifists: The Beatitudes and Just War Theory

by Thomas Trzyna (Herald Press, 2006), 138 pp. ISBN 0-8361-9 3466 $14.99. Reviewed by Trevor Esau, EMC member and experienced youth leader.

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lessed are the Pacifists is an easy reading book, not mired in deep theological language.

Trzyna acknowledges his book is not a “comprehensive scholarly review… but rather to be a focused meditation.”

The author does an excellent job of opening the discussion on pacifism in contrast to the “just war” theory, using the Beatitudes as a jumping off point.

Trzyna begins the exploration of pacifism with the “working assumption” of the Beatitudes being a manual for present living, containing ideas worth considering as approaches to creating a peaceful world.

Trzyna makes an excellent point in stating “one of the rhetorical strategies in discussions of war and peace has been for one side to find a single flaw in the other side and then walk away with a feeling of victory.”

This is a lesson for all of us to learn

Trzyna does an excellent job of opening the discussion on pacifism in contrast to the “just war” theory.

However, some arguments for pacifism contain contradictory statements.

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

Trevor Esau

in this debate. We must learn to listen to “the other side” and seek the truth found in God’s Word.

I do find, however, Trzyna’s arguments for pacifism to contain some contradictory statements. For example, Trzyna accepts economic sanctions as an acceptable solution in negotiating peace, and yet a chapter later he claims the result of economic sanctions is the starvation of children. We are left wondering if sanctions are acceptable or not.

Trzyna argues that our society cannot go help another society until we have “removed the log” from our eye. The author notes the biggest work America can do for pacifism is “to address poverty, education, racism, and other problems in our own nation, so that it becomes a model for others.

We are not in a strong position to export advice or assistance when our own house is so visibly in disorder.” Although I understand his point, I fear this attitude makes us inactive on an international level as well as on a personal level. If I cannot offer assistance to others until I need assistance no longer, then I will never help another.

“Pacifism requires constant activism,” as Trzyna states. How many “pacifists” are so because it is convenient or less scary than going to war? How many people are pacifists because that is what is required to be a member of the local church? Trzyna begs of people to “become empty,” to put away selfishness and take on the heart of God in the matters of war and T peace. M

coming events April 29 The Power of Peace: Songs and Anabaptist Stories of Radical Faith Bethel Mennonite Church Winnipeg, Man. 204-453-2199 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 May 18–21 Abundant Springs 2007: The Anointed EMC Youth Conference Caronport, Sask.

204-326-6401 www.abundantsprings.ca May 25–26 All Women’s Day Speaker: Lisa Harper Providence College and Seminary Otterburne, Man. 204-433-7488 www.prov.ca June 7 10th annual MEDA golf tournament St. Boniface Golf Course Start time: Noon June 10 Eden Foundation Big Brothers, Big Sisters 15th Annual Golf Tournament Winkler Golf Course Winkler, Man. 866-895-2919 www.edenhealth.mb.ca June 14 13th Annual EMC Golf Classic Fly-In Golf Course Steinbach, Man. 204-255-8062 or 204-371-5209 June 28 Eden Foundation IronMan Golf Marathon Winkler Golf Course 866-895-2919 www.edenhealth.mb.ca October 19 Going Barefoot: Entering a Brave New World of Communication Conference for communicators $80, students $40 Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 204-487-3300 November 1–4 MEDA: Trust in a World of Change Business as a Calling 2007 Hilton Toronto, Ont. 800-665-7026 www.meda.org

When God’s justice and goodness collide:

Thinking through the notion of Dr. Pierre Gilbert

Given the opportunity, a vast majority of people would eagerly choose to go to a better place after death. The problem is that heaven is not so much a better place, as it is encountering another person.

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THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

is to choose to exist in a state where God is absent. It’s a condition where everything that makes life enjoyable, like love and compassion, disappears.

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ow can we maintain our belief in a loving God if hell is a place of punishment, where reprobates consciously experience the judgment of God for all eternity? I suspect many Christians would echo Clark Pinnock’s misgivings: Everlasting torture is intolerable from a moral point of view because it pictures God acting like a bloodthirsty monster who maintains an everlasting Auschwitz for his enemies whom he does not even allow to die. How can one love a God like that? I suppose one might be afraid of him, but could we love and respect him? Would we want to strive to be like him in his mercilessness? (Clark H. Pinnock, “The Conditional View,” in Four Views on Hell, edited by William V. Crockett, Zondervan, 1992, 149).

But before we throw our lot with the eminent theologian, a warning is in order. We need to remember that spiritual reality is infinitely more complex than physical reality. There’s grave danger in rejecting a truth simply because the images used to describe it may appear absurd to us.

A need for justice First of all, let’s be honest. It’s difficult to imagine a universe where a moral order exists, and where radical evil could be committed with impunity.

That a Hitler could have his slate cleaned off, enter heaven, and forever enjoy it seems revolting.

A few years ago, Luc de Larochellière, a wellknown French Canadian folk singer released a song, Six Feet on Earth, where he expresses his anger at injustice: Six feet on earth there are too many swine.

And when they die, others immediately take their place.

History could provide an entire list of them.

Oh! My God! Promise me that hell exists.

My God! Promise me that hell exists.

We know that many never get what they deserve in this life. Some literally get away with murder. But sometimes someone commits an act so horrendous THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

and vile that, like the poet, we can’t help but echo these terrible words.

But the most offending aspect of the biblical concept of hell is not that the most evil among us may end up there, but that all of us are in fact condemned to an eternity without God. All are doomed The Bible teaches that there is something wrong in each one of us. And that it is this “wrongness” that condemns us to hell. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

To understand why it is so, we need to flip the issue on its head and clarify something about heaven. It’s imperative to explore why the fundamental flaw inherent to human nature will keep us out of heaven as surely as we are barred from the surface of the sun. C.S. Lewis offers an important hint: Good things as well as bad, you know, are caught by a kind of infection. If you want to get warm you must stand near the fire: if you want to be wet you must get into the water.

If you want joy, power, peace, eternal life, you must get close to, or even into, the thing that has them. They are not a sort of prizes which God could, if He chose, just hand out to anyone. They are a great fountain of energy and beauty spurting up at the very centre of reality. If you are close to it, the spray will wet you: if you are not, you will remain dry. Once a man is united to God, how could he not live forever? Once a man is separated from God, what can he do but wither and die? (Mere Christianity, (Harper San Francisco, 2001, 1952, 176).

Heaven isn’t so much about a geographical location (though it doesn’t exclude it), as it is about being in a relationship with God. The wrongness that is now part of our nature is so deep and its ramifications so broad, that it literally forbids us from being face to face with God (see, for example, Genesis 3:8, Exodus 33:20, Isaiah 6:5, Revelation 1:17). Without divine intervention, we’re all doomed!

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Some may balk at the notion The only cure In this life, there’s always the of an irreversible condition. Isn’t God has done everything to possibility of escaping the darkness God infinitely merciful? Isn’t his address this situation: he gave grace sufficient to conquer all? his own Son. Through Christ, of the self by turning to God. I find no evidence in Scripture God has now forgiven the whole to suggest rebellious souls may world. According to 1 John 2:2, at some moment in eternity realize the error of every human being is now free to embrace God their ways and turn back to God (Hebrews 9:27). and gain access to heaven. But surprisingly, not Christianity teaches that our eternal fate ultimately everybody will choose to do so. hinges on decisions we make during our life on God fills heaven, and God is characterized by earth. certain attributes like virtue, purity, and truth. The In this life, there’s always the possibility of wrongness that we all share makes it impossible to escaping the darkness of the self by turning to God. be in the presence of such a God. In the next, that opportunity vanishes, not because Think of the most beautiful house you’ve ever of God, but because of a person’s all-consuming seen. It’s the middle of July. A skunk died in the hatred for God, which like a building and has been decomposing for a few days. nuclear mushroom, will forever However beautiful the house might be, the stench T expand into eternity. M would preclude any possibility of living in it. In our natural state, we cannot stand the “stench” of Pierre Gilbert, Ph.D., is director heaven. of the Winnipeg Centre for Before we can forever exist in the presence Ministry Studies, and an of God, our human nature must be radically associate professor at Canadian transformed to withstand the “rigours” of heaven. In Mennonite University (Winnipeg) order for that to happen, we must subject ourselves and Mennonite Brethren Biblical to the only process this universe offers for such Seminary (Fresno, California). restoration—redemption through Jesus Christ.

The issue of heaven and hell is not primarily a question of morality. It’s an issue of human nature. “Good” and “bad” people both need to undergo transformation in order to withstand the presence of God (see Romans 3:10–11, 7:18,23; 8:7–9; Ephesians 2:1,3; 1 Corinthians 2:14). God isn’t in the business of producing nicer men and women, but is intent on creating new people (2 Corinthians 5:17).

The issue of heaven and hell is not primarily a question of morality. It’s an issue of human nature. “Good” and “bad” people both need to undergo transformation in order to withstand the presence of God. And here is the good news! Because of what God did in Christ, nothing is required of us—other than an act of the will. Every person must decide to respond favourably to God’s invitation and be transformed, or decline God’s invitation, embrace the self, and be forever ruined.

Away for eternity For human free will to be meaningful, God must grant to those who do not wish to be in relationship with him the power to say “No.” Hell is to choose to exist in a state where God is absent. It’s a condition where everything that makes life enjoyable, like love and compassion, disappears. And from a logical standpoint, it’s a state from which there’s no coming back.

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with our missionaries Mexico

EMC and RGBI have a history

What a challenge it is to live on the Rio Grande Bible Institute (RGBI) campus! Life is surrounded daily by Latin young people called to serve worldwide and career missionaries who absorb language and culture. All of these benefits are found in the lower Rio Grande Valley, on the border of Mexico, 90 percent bilingual and minutes from Mexico proper.

Add to these advantages the missionary student who lives on campus feels a genuine love and appreciation for that new culture that promises to be home for the foreseeable future.

Friendships form the bond of language and cultural learning. Beyond these benefits are the spiritual bonds that unite a bilingual staff and faculty, vibrant Latin youth, recently called missionaries eager to learn and, yes, even EMC winter volunteers that come from Canada who help build and maintain a spacious 62acre campus.

Since the coming of Rev. Larry Windle as President of the Rio Grande Bible Institute, Edinburg, Texas, in 2003, the motto of the Institute has taken on new meaning: Training Godly Leaders for the Spanish Speaking World. From

his missionary background in Bolivia, he has added more prayer emphasis, practical outreach and the modeling of biblical principles of leadership by staff and faculty.

For 61 years RGBI has served Latin America through the four-year accredited Spanish Bible Institute, a quality language school, two Spanish radio stations, video and DVD courses by extension and, most recently, three on-line courses to provide for the many who cannot come on campus. In spite of increase USA home land security dangers since 9/11, God has provided a gradual increase in student visa enrollment from some 12 different countries.

For some years Canada has sent Hispanic students and several have returned to supply pulpits. This semester a Colombian couple for B.C. were readily granted a visa for study. Angel and Blanca Infantes serve as Associate Pastors of Braeside Evangelical Mennonite Church in Winnipeg. EMC Mexican alumni have come from EMC churches and returned to serve God effectively.

RGBI and EMC have had a long and mutually beneficial relationship. Some 80 EMC missionaries since 1963 have

trained here. My wife Grace and I are from Winnipeg and have served 53 years at RGBI. I continue to teach in both schools. Elma Janzen is in my grammar class, and she is an excellent example of a call to missions and commitment to learning Spanish.

With uncertainty in the world and the rising Islamic fundamentalism, it appears that the Latin countries will displace the Anglo countries in providing future missionaries for the Ten/Forty Window.

RGBI is positioned on the cutting edge of future advance by providing solid biblical training for the youth of Latin America. In addition, the increased use of the Internet and on line training opens to untold thousands the training once only available in resident Bible Institutes.

These are days of amazing developments and future missionary potential.

Dr. Gordon Johnson Submitted by Elma Janzen Elma Janzen (La Crete) is involved in Spanish language preparation for service in Mexico.

Dr. Gordon Johnson is a past president of and a current professor at RGBI.

Pictured here are a few of the 80-some EMC missionaries trained at RGBI since 1963.

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

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Will Hav W

ill our Children Have Faith? That was the question posed

by John Westerhof in a book by the same title in 1976. It’s a question that still challenges the church today.

In fact, there may be cause for concern and alarm now; recent studies on teenagers in the U.S. and Canada suggest that, if teens have faith at all, it is a generic, shallow kind of belief-a faith that will not enable them to deal with the challenges of our increasingly secular age.

A recent U.S. National Study on Teenagers and Religion found that teens who belong to religious groups have extremely weak spiritual understandings about their faith-the majority do not know the basics of what their religion teaches. As reported by author Christian Smith in Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers (Oxford, 2005), the study describes the belief system of many teens as Moralistic Therapeutic Deism.

Its basic tenets are: • A God exists who created and orders the world and watches over human life on earth.

• God wants people to be good, nice and fair to each other, as taught in the Bible and by most world religions.

• The central goal in life is to be happy and feel good about oneself.

• God does not need to be involved in my life, except when I need God to resolve a problem.

• Good people go to heaven when they die.

A similar study has not been conducted in Canada, but I suspect that we might discover that things are not so different in this country.

How did church-going teens end up this way? The study What is needed today is a “biblical goes on to say that the single most important influence and presentation of the church” as an predictor of the religious and “alternative culture that invites others spiritual lives of adolescents is to participate in the reality of God’s their parents. Far from seeking their own spiritual paths, reign. Understanding this can help move teenagers follow their parents’ students beyond a privatized faith toward footsteps when it comes to religion. (In Canada, about a strong desire to influence the world.”

80 percent of teens say they – Wendell Loewen are highly influenced by their

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

l our Children ve Faith?

Abe Bergen

parents, and about 70 percent want to have a home like the one they grew up in.)

In other words, the beliefs of the parents get passed down to the children. Our values, attitudes and beliefs about things like God, the divinity of Jesus, life after death, love, sexuality, values and ethics will be picked up by them. According to Reginald Bibby, the University of Lethbridge sociologist who has been surveying teenager’s attitudes towards religion since the 1970s, “teenagers will become eventually pretty much like the rest of us” (Canada’s Teens: Today, Yesterday and Tomorrow, Stoddart, 2001).

Another major influence in causing teens to have a shallow faith has been the teaching they have received in some churches. Wendell Loewen, Associate Professor of Youth, Church and Culture at Tabor College (a Mennonite Brethren college in Hillsboro, Kansas), suggests that many teens have been taught that “salvation is, in essence, a one-time transaction with God to escape damnation. Christians simply have to read the Bible more, pray more, and occasionally save souls.”

The result, he says, is a faith that is “virtually indistinguishable from its surrounding culture,” that is “primarily privatized” and that “demonstrates a radical disconnect between belief and lifestyle.”

He goes on to say that what is needed today is a “biblical presentation of the church” as an “alternative culture that invites others to participate in the reality of God’s reign. Understanding this can help move students beyond a privatized faith toward a strong desire to influence the world.”

For Loewen, this reign is most helpfully illustrated by the image of the kingdom of God. By emphasizing the “reign of God,” he says, teens will “better be able to see

Abe Bergen is Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at CMU, specializing in youth ministry.

Before coming to CMU, he was an Assistant Pastor at Winnipeg’s Bethel Mennonite Church and served as Director of Youth Ministry for Mennonite Church Manitoba.

their way out of their individualized, privatized faith bubbles. They will be able to wrestle with tangible ways in which they can impact their world. This discovery can move students beyond an individual and personal faith emphasis toward one that seeks to tangibly impact the world” (Thirsty for the Reign: A Kingdom Theology for Youth Ministry, Direction, Spring, 2002).

For me, the message is clear: If the church doesn’t live If the church doesn’t and teach a holistic gospel to our children, they will end up live and teach a with a watered down faith— holistic gospel to our one that simply promotes children, they will end personal well-being and teaches them to be nice to one up with a watered another. It will be a faith that down faith—one keeps God on retainer, just in case they run into trouble, that simply promotes but not one that promotes the personal well-being importance of deepening the and teaches them to be presence of God in their lives.

Fortunately, the students nice to one another.

I meet through my work at Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) are, for the most part, not Moralistic Therapeutic Deists. Yet they often struggle with how to make their faith real and vital. For this reason, it is important to challenge them to think deeply about their faith, to take ownership of their beliefs and to be able to articulate them. It can be a tough experience, but through it they discover ways to grow in their relationship with God, and learn how to put faith into practice through service and action.

As churches and Christian schools, our goal must be to help youth care equally about evangelism and social action; inner peace with God and peacemaking; personal spirituality and community; abundant life and simple living; serving God and serving the poor; praying and doing justice.

We must help them avoid becoming Moralistic Therapeutic Deists. We should help them to learn to know the One who created them, and who watches over all of life-and help them deepen that relationship in such a way that they will constantly feel God’s presence T as they commit themselves to serving God in all of life. M

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with our churches

Winter carnival held Lorette, Man.: Prairie Grove Chapel’s annual winter carnival was held at Darrell and Jolyn Braun’s home on February 25.

The main event of our carnival is a milk jug curling tournament. Tim and Matilda Field and Chris and Shannon Ireland, our Fun and Fellowship committee members, painted three sheets on the ice in preparation for the tournament.

Jolyn Braun

Roasting hot dogs and chatting between activities.

This year’s winning team: Jason Dueck, Seth Penner, and Wes Penner.

Here Robert Manswell is tossing a rock, with Glen Brandt and Lorna Penner cheering him on.

At one end of the rink, children practice their skating and adults take shots while waiting for their curling team’s next round. Hockey fans lingered into the evening and enjoyed a fast paced hockey game on the whole ice.

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Jaden Manswell and Ben Field get ready for a faceoff.

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

Heads shaved for AIDS fund-raiser and Steven Thiessen, said they On a cold frosty morning in early February Mandy Neminishen would also shave their heads. headed to a hairdressing salon When Thiessen, the youth pastor, that had offered to shave her head jokingly said he would have to be at no cost. paid a lot of money to shave his head, someone offered an extra While some friends told Neminishen she was crazy, others $1,000. stepped up to support her. By the “God opened a lot of doors to end of the day, four people had shaved their heads and over $6,000 speak to people about what I had been raised for Mennonite Central Committee programs did, and why I did it.” supporting children orphaned by AIDS. In the weeks following the Neminishen, newly married dramatic haircut, Neminishen has and in her second year of studies found that her bald head is a great at Bethany College in Hepburn, way to talk to others about AIDS Sask., said she had been inspired and its impact on children. “God by another student, Alison Berg, opened a lot of doors to speak to who had shaved her head as a people about what I did, and why I fundraiser for AIDS orphans in did it,” she said.

2004.

In what has been a particularly She recalls that her reaction to cold and snowy winter in this in 2004 had been, “Good for Saskatoon hair stylist Gail Robinson shaves Mandy Neminishen’s Saskatchewan, her lack of hair her. I could never do that.” head to help Neminishen raise funds and awareness of MCC raises questions. At a recent Then 18 months ago, something projects supporting children orphaned by AIDS. The event is soccer game, the questions about changed. She felt as if images of captured on video by youth pastor Steven Thiessen. her short hair led into a great (Dorothy Bartel, MCCS) discussion with other players and children orphaned by AIDS were all around her. She felt a passion for the money as she could. coaches about the problems faced by She promoted the head shaving in AIDS orphans each day. children and wanted to help them. When she read stories about orphans, she her church in Saskatoon, Cornerstone Recently, she was also able to tell would think to herself, “What if that was Church, and in her hometown of Hepburn. her story at a large youth conference. In She wrote letters to everyone she knew, addition to the money she was able to my child?”

She also thought about Alison Berg’s giving examples of how even donations raise for children in other parts of the response to help children orphaned by of $4 or $5 could make a difference in the world, Neminishen recognizes an equally AIDS. “And then I realized, I think I can life of a child. She was also invited to tell important strength in her experience. “We let go of my hair. This is worth it.” With her story to local media outlets. want to encourage young people and not Her husband Shane and pastors snuff out their passions. If other people the decision made to shave her head, she set out to use the event to raise as much of Cornerstone Church, Russell Reid get passions, we want them to know that the church will support them.”

In the end, she learned one other thing from her experience. “I love short hair!”

Sarah Adams, MCC HIV/AIDS coordinator

births FRIESEN – to Jason and Jennifer Friesen of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Serena Katherine, on April 6, 2007.

weddings EIDSE – KNELSEN: Ray, son of Abe and Tillie Eidse of Rosenort, Man., and Kimberly, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth Knelsen of La Crete, Alta., were married on November 25, 2006, at La Crete with Gordon Foster of Fort Vermilion, Alta., officiating. The couple lives in La Crete.

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MWC appeals for change in Zimbabwe crisis Mennonite World Conference has appealed to the United Nations and the African Union to exert their influence on the government of Zimbabwe to change its destructive actions against its own people.

A March 29 letter addressed to Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General, in New York and John Kufuor, AU president, in Ghana points out that the desperate situation in Zimbabwe and the failure of its government calls for a more energetic response than the quiet diplomacy which has been ineffective.

The letter follows the March 11 violent attack by police on participants in a peaceful prayer meeting near Harare, the Zimbabwean capital. One person was reported killed and several were seriously injured.

This incident is just one recent example of on-going oppression and disregard for human rights. Poverty, unemployment, sky-rocketing inflation and insecurity are causing profound suffering and citizens to flee and become refugees. At the same time, international organizations, including churches, are hampered in their efforts to help.

The MWC letter condemns all violence in Zimbabwe and calls for immediate and positive dialogue between leaders in the country, in the region, and in the global community of nations.

MWC

An Abundant Springs Worship Event

friday april 27 7:30 pm braeside emc 1011 munroe ave winnipeg, manitoba 12

The Letter: Your Excellencies, I write on behalf of the Mennonite World Conference, a community of 97 member churches in 53 countries, representing approximately 1.5 million people, to express our deep distress with regard to the tragic situation in Zimbabwe.

The Mennonite World Conference has a member church in Zimbabwe and, through related organizations, supports humanitarian service and development activities in the country (as in many other countries in Africa and around the world).

As an international community of churches, we stand in strong solidarity with the people of Zimbabwe. We have been following the events there with great concern and prayer. It is with a sense of heartfelt grief that we observe the current circumstances in which Zimbabwean people must struggle for survival.

As you know, most Zimbabweans are suffering deeply due to the economic meltdown. Hyper-inflation has robbed the nation of its wealth and its people of the possibility to provide for their families. Ordinary Zimbabweans no longer are secure in their own country, so many cross the border and become refugees. The grievances of the people with regard to poverty, unemployment, security, and abuse of power reflect fundamental failures of government.

These developments undermine the capacity of international organizations, including those representing our worldwide family of churches, to offer help to suffering people.

At the same time, the government and police of Zimbabwe are responding to the calls for change with unprecedented oppression. We receive reliable reports of the insensitivity of the government to the torture and beatings of people already in police custody, the refusal of access to legal representation and medical care for these people, and, in general, inhuman treatment of citizens and disregard of human rights.

The incidents on 11 March 2007 and subsequently, in which participants in peaceful demonstrations and expressions of resistance have been imprisoned, attacked, wounded and killed, reveal that the government of Zimbabwe is prepared to use the instruments of State power violently against its own people in

complete disregard of their freedom to assembly and of the government’s own constitutional responsibilities.

It is noteworthy that the police action on 11 March 2007 was against participants in a peaceful prayer meeting. I draw your attention to the initiatives that churches in Zimbabwe are taking to promote justice and peace in such a difficult and dangerous context, including through the Ecumenical Peace Initiative which recently presented specific proposals to President Mugabe in a document entitled “The Zimbabwe We Want: Towards a National Vision for Zimbabwe.”

Mennonite World Conference joins with all those who condemn any form of violence in Zimbabwe, irrespective of the political affiliation of those perpetrating the violence. We join also in the common call for tolerance and positive dialogue between all people of goodwill for Zimbabwe, especially all leaders in the country, in the region, and in the global community of nations. We believe that South Africa, the other countries of the Southern Africa Development Community, and the United Nations must respond more energetically and resolvedly to this violent and tragic situation. Quiet diplomacy and inappropriate camaraderie have not spoken meaningfully to the Zimbabwean situation and serve to perpetuate inaction which results in continued repression of the peoples of Zimbabwe. Their suffering is such that no further delay can be contemplated.

Mr. Secretary General, Mr. President, we appeal to you to do all in your power to exert influence upon the government of Zimbabwe to change its self-destructive course, to cease its attacks upon its own people, to correct its failed economic policies, and to reverse its political isolationism.

It is our hope and prayer that the global community of nations, led by the African community of nations, can mobilize to help save Zimbabwe, to restore hope to its people, and to revive Zimbabwe as the model and inspiration it once was.

Yours respectfully, Dr. Larry Miller General Secretary Mennonite World Conference Strasbourg, France

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

pictures of God

Joanna Plett

God doing His thing

G

od keeps doing His thing” is one of the lines I live by. I say it when I realize I’ve stumbled into the center of something far bigger than myself.

Like the time I wandered into a bar in Uganda, hoping to develop some friendships, and left an hour later having led someone to Christ.

Like the times I’ve found myself sitting at the right table, riding on the right bus, on MSN at the right time. The times the right words come to me in a conversation—answers to tough issues, clear explanations of the Gospel, words from God for people.

God doing his thing.

Evangelism, discipleship, and the church are God’s thing, not ours. He invites us, calls us, and gifts us to be a part of it, but the bottom line is God, not us. Two basic truths accompany this concept.

“

our hands and beyond our scope? Faithfulness. God invites us, calls us, and gifts us to be part of building his Kingdom. We are not responsible for the whole thing, but we are responsible for the part God has entrusted to us.

Thus, the first challenge is to discover our role. Paul challenges Timothy “fan into flame the gift of God” (2 Timothy 1:6) and to be faithful in carrying out his calling.

The second is to be faithful in that calling. Tertullian once said “the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Those martyrs saw none of the fruit of their work, but it is upon their faithful blood that we build the church today.

And upon our faithfulness today God will build His T church tomorrow. M

We easily get caught up in Kingdom-building—my church, my ministry, my program. We tighten our grip on our role, our vision, and, ultimately, our glory.

First, if this is God’s thing, God is responsible to carry it out. In Africa, I had to fall back on this truth constantly. As we traveled from church to church, I had to believe that God was preparing the way before we came, working through us when we were there, and carrying it out in the long run. Knowing ministry is God’s thing takes the pressure off of us; He is ultimately responsible for its fulfillment.

The second truth is a little harder to swallow: if this is God’s thing, He gets the glory, not us.

When King Nebuchadnezzer gloated over Babylon, saying “Is this not the great Babylon I have built...by my mighty power for the glory of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30, emphasis added), God stripped his glory, authority, and identity until he acknowledged that this was God’s kingdom, not his.

We easily get caught up in Kingdom-building—my church, my ministry, my program. We tighten our grip on our role, our vision, and, ultimately, our glory. When it’s God’s thing, programs and roles are subject to His vision. His scope in any given situation, location, or individual is often far broader than we’ll ever see. It’s his Kingdom we are building, and it’s for his glory.

So what is our role in this Kingdom that is out of THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

1

Swiss remember Anabaptists in year of special events A service at the Protestant church in the town of Langnau, Switzerland, marked the beginning of the Anabaptist commemorative year in this canton’s rural Emmental region.

More than 200 events will recall the persecution of Anabaptists— divided mainly into Mennonites and Amish today—which began during the Reformation and did not end until the early 19th century. They include plays, exhibitions and excursions throughout Bern and neighbouring cantons in north western Switzerland.

“We, as the indirect successor to the political authorities of that time, regret the injustices done to so many and the suffering caused,” said Werner Luginbühl, president of canton Bern’s government, during the opening ceremony on Saturday, March 24.

More than 200 events will recall the persecution of Anabaptists—divided mainly into Mennonites and Amish today—which began during the Reformation and did not end until the early 19th century.

It was in this part of Switzerland that the authorities brutally repressed the Anabaptists, who challenged the 16th century reforms of Martin Luther and Ulrich Zwingli, one of the Swiss leaders of the Reformation.

For their refusal to accept the new state-run church, and insistence on adult instead of infant baptism, Anabaptists were subjected to imprisonment, torture, expulsion and execution.

Persecution continued at least until 1810 in Switzerland but lasted only a few decades in the Netherlands, which also had a sizeable and influential Anabaptist community.

“We can’t undo what was done, but society can learn so that the mistakes are not repeated,” said Luginbühl.

“The focus of this event should be on building bridges.”

Official reconciliation between Switzerland’s Protestant and Mennonite churches happened in the 1970s, but Anabaptist history has remained a “taboo subject,” according to Fritz von Gunten, principal coordinator of commemorative events.

14

“We’d prefer to talk about success and positive aspects of the past rather than dark chapters,” said von Gunten. “There are Anabaptists living in the Emmental today who are well integrated into their communities, [but] the population knows very little about their history.”

Von Gunten said he has been overwhelmed by the number of projects submitted for inclusion in the official program designed to raise awareness of the past.

“It is amazing what public attention the ‘year of the Anabaptists’ generates,” said Markus Rediger, Mennonite World Conference Executive Committee member for Europe, who was at the opening ceremony in Langnau. Many newspapers published news of the event and bookstores that usually don’t sell Anabaptist books are ordering an Anabaptist guide, published in German.

French and English translations are in progress.

The country’s existing Anabaptist community is uneasy about suddenly finding itself in the spotlight, said Paul Gerber, president of the Swiss Mennonite Conference. The challenge for Mennonites today is to remain true to their faith despite this new attention, he said.

Gerber reminded the audience that while Anabaptists no longer suffer because of their beliefs, people are still being persecuted in Switzerland.

His statement was a veiled reference to the fate of asylum seekers who are not burned nor drowned like the Anabaptists of the 16th century but are often rejected by authorities.

There are 14 Mennonite congregations in Switzerland with about 2,500 members and an estimated 600,000 descendants of Swiss Anabaptists live in North America.

Visitors from abroad are encouraged to attend an international gathering in the Emmental July 26–29. For information, visit www.anabaptism. org (organisers of the year of the Anabaptists) and the homepage of the Swiss Mennonite Conference, www. menno.ch (French and German).

MWC

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THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

stewardship today Sherri Grosz

Death Stinks!

D

eath stinks” were the pastor’s opening words at this funeral. My heart wholly agreed with his sentiment. This funeral was to celebrate the life of a vivacious 29-year-old woman, married for three years to a wonderful man who had been one of my employees and become one of my friends.

It seemed terribly unfair that she had been killed in a car accident 13 days before Christmas. There we

“

Consider the what if’s that make up a good will. Part of careful stewardship involves making plans for the future. Give the consultant in your area a call. were, mourners packed to standing-room only in a church one week before Christmas Eve trying to put this death into perspective. We should have been rejoicing the coming celebration of Christ’s birth, and instead were weeping at the injustice of her death.

Following the funeral, I wondered: What if it had been my husband or me in that car accident?

As much as possible, we are prepared for that event. Shortly after we were married, we prepared our wills.

Everyone knows that they will die someday. None of us know the hour or the day, but we still put off making plans for our death. Nearly 50 per cent of Canadians don’t have a will.

If they were to die tomorrow, their families would be left with a long, expensive process to settle their estates that would involve lawyers and courts. Assets would be frozen, inheritances delayed, and costs greatly increased. I’m sure they don’t want that to be their final legacy to their loved ones.

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

In our marriage counseling, we were encouraged to contact Mennonite Foundation of Canada for help creating our wills. We obtained MFC’s Estate Planning Guide and began to work our way through it. Rob and I considered the what if’s that make up a good will.

What if we both died together? What if his children died with us? Who would raise them if they survived us? We also thought about what charities we would want to bless.

Finally, we contacted MFC and arranged for a stewardship consultant to meet us in our home. Our consultant created a memo to take to our lawyer to assist in drafting the wills. We signed our new wills a few weeks later and we were done.

Now that I am employed with MFC, I can assist and encourage others to make sure their wills are complete and up to date.

But why does MFC care if you have a will? We believe that all Christians are called to be responsible for what God has entrusted into their care.

Part of careful stewardship involves making plans for the future. MFC is also a public foundation that encourages generosity amongst our clients.

We will ask you if you have given any thought to a charitable bequest in your will, and can help you explore the options you have. MFC also offers many services to assist you in your generosity now.

If you are curious about how we might be able to help you, please give the consultant in your area a T call. We’d love to hear from you! 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, Sherri Grosz, 888-212-7759; Winnipeg – Edwin Friesen, 800-772-3257.

15

t u O g n i h c a e R in challenging

Tilbury EMC

W

times

ant an impression of Tilbury EMC? Pastor Jake Enns and other leaders care deeply for the congregation. Conservative German Mennonite people still move into southeastern Ontario and the congregation is concerned about them. The area’s automotive and manufacturing sectors are in a decline, which causes unease. Finally, Jake Enns favours starting new churches to assist the area’s Low German-speaking people.

Past and present Southeastern Ontario is a heavily populated, older part of Canada that is crammed with communities of various sizes. Congregations draw people from a wide area.

Leamington EMC envisioned a church plant in 1996 or 1997. In 2000, a group met for discussion and prayer at John and Lina Dyck’s home. Jake Enns was asked to lead a church plant in Tilbury.

The first service in Tilbury was in early September 2000 in a rented store that they outgrew “instantly,” Jake said. Services began in German, but quickly shifted to English, said John Dyck.

In early December 2000 the church moved to a larger, rented store on Main Street. On July 8, 2001, the church was accepted into the EMC. In February 2007 they began meeting in a church building purchased in the small community of Stevenson, about 10 minutes from Tilbury.

Built in 1934, the formerly Catholic building with a towering spire and cross is Stevenson’s dominant feature. Minister John Dyck described the new meeting site as coming full circle: Early Anabaptists left the Catholic Church and now their spiritual descendents take over a Catholic building.

A common background Most members are from German Mennonite background with roots in Mexico. Some were born in Mexico and some in Canada. Pastor Jake and Anna Enns were born and raised in Mexico. Jake’s initial education ended abruptly after grade 4 by his father’s decision, yet he remained a passionate learner. Jake and Anna married in March 1987, and left Mexico a few days later for Aylmer, Ont., where they became part of Mount Salem EMC. Jake studied full- and part-time at Aylmer Bible Institute, graduating with a three-year diploma; he also got his high school equivalency. He and Anna moved in November 1991 to Leamington to help with the church plant. In 2000 he graduated from SBC with a degree in pastoral studies. He still enjoys trucking, which connects him with people. Jake and Anna have three sons.

Minister John and Lina Dyck also come from Old Colony background; A range of Christian Education classes take place on Sunday morning.

John is the son of a bishop. They live (photos by Peter Hamm)

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THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

r e h t e g o T in Stevenson, down the street from the meeting place. Dyck is a quality management systems consultant, does safety inspections, and instructs in forklift safety.

Born in Leamington, John has spent much of his life around Wheatley. The first in his family to graduate from grade 12 at a public school, he graduated in 2006 with an SBC degree and was elected and ordained as a minister at Tilbury. He instructs the Christian Life Classes.

Bill Friesen, also the son of an Old Colony bishop, became congregational chair in January 2007. He says he’s still learning his role. He and his wife Sarah became involved in Tilbury church in April 2005. Friesen works in Klassen Custom Fabricating in Windsor.

Structure The church has three ministerial couples (pastor Jake and Anna Enns, minister John and Lina Dyck, and deacon Isack and Tina Klassen), song leaders, and treasurers. There’s a church board and numerous committees: Sunday School, VBS, library, maintenance, youth, college and career, ushers, nominating, building, program, food, missions, and worship. Are there too many committees? Jake’s

What might the wider EMC understand about Tilbury EMC? • The church is a working class congregation with mostly young couples and children.

• The church is conservative, slower to embrace change, and has reasons for it.

– Pastor Jake Enns • Their deep desire to be the church, to be that anchor, that strong point in times of trouble.

– John Dyck • “That we’re fighting the fight.”

– Bill Friesen • “We’re gonna be the hands and feet of Jesus.”

– Sarah Friesen

Children’s activities (Friday) and a young adults’ meeting (Saturday).

Anna and Pastor Jake Enns, and minister John and Lina Dyck serve as Tilbury EMC’s ministerial, together with deacon Isack and Tina Klassen (not pictured).

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

wondered about that.

On Friday night there is a young people’s meeting, a Bible study for adults, and activities for younger children. On Saturday college and career meet for activities. On Sunday there are a range of Christian education classes.

Pastor Jake described other activities: Youth ministry at a seniors’ home (monthly), a ladies’ fellowship (monthly), men’s breakfast (every month or two), youth gym activities (twice a month), and potlucks (about monthly). They have special speakers, most recently Glenn Loewen from Portage Evangelical Church who spoke during a week of well-attended services.

The church and its leaders also benefit from seminars and workshops sponsored by an organization, a regional group, or a local church. A program community is active with monthly 17

evening events. A campout was held last year.

when minor issues distract people.

One challenge is to reach out, to not let maintenance issues take precedence over making disciples, said Bill Friesen.

More than one person said that, in minor matters, unity is sometimes a challenge.

Strengths? Lots of friendship, Lina Dyck says. How openly people are accepted from a variety of backgrounds, Bill Friesen says. A gifted pastoral couple, say Bill and Sarah Friesen. Strong spiritual teaching through leaders and programs, Pastor Jake said. “I could leave and the church wouldn’t die,” said Enns. “We have a strong sense of people knowing what to do in my absence.”

Vision What’s the vision? To be so involved in the community that the church would be missed if it were gone, Jake said. He wants to reach out to surrounding areas, where the church could be the “catalyst for change” in people’s lives.

The church’s task isn’t to get people in; it’s to go where people are, Sarah Friesen said. She and Trudy Hamm plan to observe how the congregation might assist a Windsor congregation involved in a street ministry.

A common concern is to assist Pastor Jake Enns is a passionate learner. conservative German Mennonite people who come with various needs; among those Sunday service interviewed, respect was shown for Old Colony Soft Spanish music welcomes people to the 10:45 members who face changes and challenges. “And now service on March 11, 2007. Ben Sawatzky leads the I don’t want to by all means bash anything about Old service. Pastor Jake Enns leads in I am Thine, O Lord Colony,” Bill Friesen said. The church is to be helpful and He Leadeth Me from the hymnbook. Ben guides in when problems arise for people, Lina Dyck says. People prayer for two Christian Life classes, adults and youth. are to feel “genuinely cared for,” Pastor Enns said.

While the offering is given, He is Lord is sung in English and German—the single German touch in the service. Announcements follow. Cornie Niekoley reads The church’s task isn’t to get people in; it’s to Scripture. I give the sermon. Another hymn follows, go where people are. with the pastor announcing the benediction before the final verse. The morning’s attendance is 109.

Is Jake Enns interested in starting a new church After the service, people visit in the basement somewhere? Yes, he replies, but he’s also content to fellowship hall. They draw strength from each other. remain with Tilbury EMC and to see others go. He says They will do so repeatedly when they gather in the T he has no fear when people leave for ministry. future. M Terry M. Smith Challenges and strengths Challenges are to find the middle-ground between Editor’s note: Thank you to Pastor Jacob and Anna Enns, conservative and freer worship styles, to be open to chairman Bill and Sarah Friesen, and minister John and Lina different groups Dyck for their gracious hospitality. Peter Hamm is thanked and ideas, to work for taking photos when the editor was occupied during together without full Sunday School. agreement, to be open about their faith, and for people to serve even if they feel unworthy, Pastor Jake says.

The idea that people can have hope, but not personal assurance of Tilbury EMC meets in a formerly Catholic building Christ’s forgiveness built in 1934. Minister John Dyck described the site as coming full circle: Early Anabaptists left the Catholic is a hurdle, says John Church and now their spiritual descendents take over Dyck; to sort out a Catholic building. between scriptural and tradition, there’s a need to go back to Scripture John Dyck teaches a class on The Christian Life. (photo by Peter Hamm) and let truth resonate from there. John is concerned 18

THE MESSENGER April 18, 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 780841-1747 or hcfc@telus.net.

MAF NEEDS elementary, middle school, and high school teachers for MAF families and other missionaries serving overseas. If you’re a trained, experienced educator and willing to be used of God overseas for a year or more in a life-changing experience overseas, then this may be just for you.

MAF missionary families give up much to minister in remote areas. They may fly and maintain aircraft, create remote communications networks, or implement powerful distance education programs. They wonderfully overcome many barriers and advance the Kingdom of God, but their children need a quality education.

Check www.maf.org/maf-needs-teachers about requirements and qualifications.

WANTED: LIFEGUARDS and counselors for Midway Bible Camp, 30 minutes out of Thompson, Man. Contact Paul Giesbrecht at Continental Mission cmi@mts.net.

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 eastcentral 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.

ISLAND GOSPEL Fellowship, in Burns Lake, BC, seeks an interim pastor and a permanent pastor. Burns Lake is a village in the geographic centre of the province, in the heart of the lakes district.

The village’s population is 2,726, and it serves as the supply centre for 8,000 people in

THE MESSENGER April 18, 2007

neighbouring communities. The congregation, with about 110 in average attendance, is comprised of people from a range of cultural and church backgrounds.

Inquiries should be addressed to Johnny Janzen, chair, pastoral search committee, IGF, Box 145, Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0. Another contact is interim church chairman Cole Clifford, 250-6987319; cole.clifford@lakescom.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.

CANADIAN MENNONITE University seeks an assistant host in our facilities department. If you have a commitment to the church and the mission of CMU, like working with people, and love to multi-task, this may be for you. Needed: Strong organizational and office skills, an ability and a willingness to assist in preparing guest rooms and other custodial duties. Processing of applications continues until the position is filled.

Reply to Susan Warkentin, director of human resources, 500 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2, or e-mail, swarkentin@cmu.ca, www.cmu.ca.

WINNIPEG MENNONITE Elementary Schools Inc. is looking for a chief executive officer (CEO).

WMES is an independent Mennonite-based Christian school with two locations in Winnipeg, educating students in grades K-8. Although grounded in the Mennonite-Anabaptist faith, WMES is supported by a broad-based constituency.

Our mission is to provide quality Christ-centred education, integrating faith and life within a caring school community. For details, check our website at www.wmes.ca.

MENNONITE CENTRAL Committee seeks an associate executive director. As chief operations officer for its headquarters in Akron, Pennsylvania, this person oversees day-to-day operations of this office and more than 100 staff.

This senior management position is directly responsible to the MCC executive director.

Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree strongly preferred.

Training in business administration, management and/or organizational development preferred. Experience in leadership and management, preferably in a churchrelated agency, is important. Must be able to conceptualize, organize, implement, supervise and coordinate organizational administrative functions within MCC’s structure and vision.

Strong communication skills, interpersonal relationship ability and analytical skills are needed. For information, contact Kathy Jackson, human resources director, krj@mcc.org, or at 717-859-1151.

MANITOBA PIONEER Camp is searching for a general director. Full-time, permanent, Winnipeg.

Applicants must have university education;

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.

camp leadership and business experience; good interpersonal, leadership and fund-development skills. Apply by May 11 to Larry Off ner. Mail: IVCF – Human Resources, 64 Prince Andrew Pl., Toronto, ON M3C 2H4; e-mail humanresources@ ivcf.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 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, e-mail: emclen@mts.net.

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.

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 kbuhler1@ telus.net.

19

KIDS’

corner

March puzzle answers Across: 1. pot of gold (no spaces); 6. antique; 9. diamond; 10. jewels Down: 2. friend; 3. candyegg; 4. ring; 5. gold; 7. pearl; 8. coin

Loreena Thiessen

Skipping to the Beat Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, turn around, Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, touch the ground, Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, show your shoe, Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, that will do.

D

to watch mallards and geese, a wood duck and, if you’re lucky, maybe a swan. The fresh cool pond is their spring time habitat where they eat and prepare their nests.

Spring comes after winter when plants and animals sleep through the cold freezing days and nights. In spring all of nature wakes up. Birds return, animals come out of their sleeping places, the sap in the trees begins to run bringing food to the branches and buds.

It’s a time of new life.

We celebrate Easter in spring too—a celebration of life forever for each person as we remember Jesus who rose from the grave on Easter morning.

A famous man, Martin Luther, said long ago, “God has written the promise of the resurrection in every leaf in spring time.”

And in Psalm 19:1 God says, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows his handiwork.”

Spring shows T us God. M

o you know additional lines: Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear go upstairs…say your prayers…turn out the light…say “Good Night!”

Soon you will take out your skipping rope.

You’ll find a sunny spot on smooth concrete out of the wind with your friends. Two will turn the rope. You choose a skipping song and begin to chant. The song has the beat and you keep time with your feet, 4/4 time like a march. You learn new verses and new chants. You take turns. You help your friends out—someone who can’t skip as well as you—you swing the rope low over the ground, slowly back and forth as she jumps over it as it swings from side to side. Then carefully you swing the rope over her head as she gets into it and now she’s skipping, too.

Skipping is exercise and it’s fun; it’s keeping time, it’s learning chants, sharing and taking turns. You learn about space—how to keep your body safely within the space created by the rope. You learn how to control your body’s movements so you don’t trip and you are able to skip longer.

Skipping means spring is here.

Spring is kites. On a windy day you may take out your kite, check the string spool and find a clear open space with no trees or buildings. A beach or a park are best, where you run holding the kite high and slowly it rises, at first erratically then more gracefully as you let out more string. It soars as high as a high rise as you pull the string in then let it go and Martin Luther you dance it across the sky.

You may throw a Frisbee and if you said, “God has have a dog he’ll chase it, then leap to written the promise catch it in his teeth as many times as you throw it. Another day you’ll get on of the resurrection your bike and go for a long ride with a in every leaf in spring friend or your family. You’ll ride down time.” Spring shows us God. the bike path and stop at a duck pond PAGE 20

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