The Messenger Vol. 45 No. 17 October 3, 2007

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 45 NUMBER 17 OCTOBER 3, 2007

Beyond Barriers: Jesus’ journey through the Church

The

Messenger

Sioux Valley needs a pastor!

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pastor is needed for Reserve Fellowship Chapel on Sioux Valley First Nation, about 45 minutes northwest of Brandon,

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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.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. 19 – November 1 (copy due October 19)

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editorials I’ve had contact with Sioux Valley congregation during the past decade, and have always been warmly welcomed. Like others before me, my car benefited from Man. David Pashe’s help when it met the ditch An effective pastor at what he has nicknamed would follow and proclaim Preacher’s Corner.

Why go to Sioux Valley?

Jesus Christ, learn from The congregation at the complex and some- Because the wider EMC has Sioux Valley can grow. times painful Canadian Another key need is history of the Christian so much to learn as well as for a youth worker to Church and First Nations, connect with youth and sensitively draw upon Dato share, and Sioux Valley to cultivate an effective kota language and culture, relationship with the band work for social change has so much to give as well administration. Youth form and justice, be in it for the a high percentage of First as to receive. long-term, and cooperate Nations communities; they where possible with other need help and guidance. denominations.

Why go to Sioux Valley? Because the Have you ever met David and Mildred wider EMC has so much to learn as well as Pashe? They are leaders at Sioux Valley. to share, and Sioux Valley has so much to Because of health reasons, though, they give as well as to receive. recently moved to Dakota Tipi (near Will it be easy? No. Will it be worthwhile?

Portage la Prairie, Man.). They were given Yes. T public thanks during July’s conference Will you go? M council by church planting director Ward Terry M. Smith Parkinson. They deserve it.

Thanksgiving and balance Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.

Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, “Who is the Lord?”

Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonour the name of my God. Proverbs 30:8-9

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gur, who wrote this chapter of Proverbs, prays for balance in life. He seeks to be a person of integrity.

This wise man asks for help with a specific challenge in life: He prays for no more and no less than his daily bread.

Why? Agur fears that if he receives more than what is needed, he might forget the Lord; and if he receives less, he might be forced to steal to survive, and thereby shame the One whom he represents.

By global standards, we middle-class EMC members are among the rich. If we are like Agur, then many of us are at risk of disowning the Lord. Like the wise man, we have matters to pray about and to act upon this Thanksgiving season. One is fairness.

Did you know that I won the lottery? Yes, by being born to a middle-class Caucasian family in Canada. Unfair as it is, by birth I have been afforded opportunities and advantages that many people only dream about, including some other Canadians.

Perhaps, then, a balanced perspective includes being aware of life’s unfairness, the needs of others, and our responsibility “to act justly” (Micah 6:8).

Because when it comes to race and T country, Christ has no favourites. M Terry M. Smith

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

coming events

Four new staff at SBC It is not only students who come, learn, and leave to minister.

This year we have four new staff members joining the SBC family.

Rob Reimer sees his role as SBC president as an opportunity to equip leaders for ministry. This has been a growing passion for him.

He left being senior pastor of Highland MB Church in Calgary, and previously pastored a church in Kansas and directed Winkler Bible Camp. He is completing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Fuller Theological Seminary.

What does Rob like about his responsibilities? “I enjoy leading an amazing team of dedicated and skilled faculty and staff who are passionately committed to equipping leaders for ministry.”

Dave Reimer has joined the faculty, and attributes his student days at SBC for developing spiritual foundations and ministry training. “I’ve been working for SBC ever since, as a board member, an unofficial recruiter, and a part-time teacher.”

Dave later obtained a Master of Divinity degree and pastored Callsbeck Fellowship Chapel (CMC) in Winnipeg. He is passionate about seeing churches effectively bringing people to Jesus, thereby changing the world.

Dave says, “I love seeing the lights come on in the classroom” as students gain insights. He loves to mentor students

listening for God’s call on their lives “because so often I see parts of my story in theirs.”

Chrystie Kroeker Boggs joined the SBC team as library technician. She loves to learn, read, and be intellectually challenged. Working in an academic environment has been a desire and says working in a Christ-centred school is “icing on the cake!”

Chrystie graduated from the University of Winnipeg and honed her research skills at the University of Texas. “I am thrilled to share some of that knowledge with SBC students as they ask for help in the library.” She enjoys interacting with students and leaves work each day with a smile and the thought, “This is the best job ever.”

Darlene Friesen has moved from the desk of a student to one labelled Admissions Counsellor. Darlene returned to SBC after graduating this past spring, drawn by the atmosphere created by staff and faculty interaction she observed as a student.

Darlene looks forward to connecting with potential students, sharing with them how SBC changed her life.

“I think it will be very exciting to see people choose to come to SBC,” she says.

We welcome these newest members, and ask you to pray for them as they become a part of God’s work here.

SBC

Chrystie Kroeker Boggs

October 16 Janz Team Ministries Celebration Banquet Featuring: Katie Hess, Mark Wiebe, John and Joyce Dyck Steinbach EM Church Steinbach, Man. 204-326-3064 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 October 25 Eden Foundation Fall Banquet Altona EMM Church Altona, Man. 204-325-5355 or 866-895-2919 www.edenhealth.mb.ca November 1–4 MEDA: Trust in a World of Change Business as a Calling 2007 Hilton Toronto, Ont. 800-665-7026 www.meda.org November 2 Eden Foundation Fall Banquet Steinbach Mennonite Church Steinbach, Man. 204-325-5355 or 866-895-2919 www.edenhealth.mb.ca November 6–7 Mennonite Identity in the 21st Century Dr. John D. Roth Laudamus Auditorium Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 204-487-3300 November 27–28 Stronger Together Interchurch gathering for agencies and congregations engaged in mental health and disabilities issues Pre-conference to Canadian Mental Health Assembly Victoria Inn Winnipeg, Man. 204-275-0394 mcc.org/canada/health/conferences November 30 EMC Ministerial meeting Braeside EM Church Winnipeg, Man. 204-326-6401

Dave Reimer

Rob Reimer

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

Darlene Friesen

December 1 EMC Conference Council meeting St. Vital EMC Winnipeg, Man. 204-326-6401

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Excerpted and condensed

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veryone hungers for miracles.

What is the place of miracles in Islam? There are shrine miracles, where the spirit of a buried saint lives on and intercedes for others. Many make pilgrimages for healing, a son, marriage, visas.

This is common of folk religion anywhere in the world.

There are also miracles to prove one is a prophet of God. Some Arabs questioned Muhammad’s claim to inspiration. He challenged them to find Arabic verses superior to Koranic verses. As the story goes, no literature was found or has been found that compares; it’s a literary miracle that the Koran cannot be imitated or matched.

The Arabic word for miracle comes from “to be weak.” Miracle means to weaken, to incapacitate.

The Prophet, considered illiterate, uttered such beautiful, awe-inspiring Arabic in the Koran that any audience is rendered weak under its influence.

What is the miracle of the Christian faith that overwhelms others at its power? How do we prove that the way of Jesus is the only way?

Debates? Programs? Community projects? Physical healing?

When the Church was born in Acts, something unique started: The miracle of a new tribe in Christ.

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Beyo Barr Issue of tribalism Tribalism is a basic issue behind the world’s crises.

Rwanda haunts me—when Hutus and Tutsis, even from the same church, slaughtered each other.

“Hundreds of people, including men, women and children, fled to the church to seek refuge from genocide, believing the killers, many of whom were members of the congregation, could not touch them there,” says Bruce Bradshaw. But “the killers entered the church and killed everyone in it. More Rwandese died in churches and parishes than anywhere else” (Change Across Cultures).

Why such horrific bloodshed? In Somalia, Serbia, Croatia, and elsewhere—including North America— nations defend their tribe, whether or not they are right.

No one wants to be left out. If our identity lies with tribe, then we must build up our tribe in order to increase our nobility and significance. Sadly, we also tear down the other tribes, who become the stranger, the enemy.

The world is returning to tribalism, with growing fanaticism that “my tribe is right.” I find it deeply grievous that many in West have lost the ability of self-criticism and become tribal. How can we live beyond our tribes?

In 1989 we witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall, which serves as a great metaphor. The Church is not only to translate God and to continue Christ, to walk humbly and take up the cross, or call individuals and cultures to change. The Church is to break down walls and build a new people!

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

yond riers: The miracle of a new tribe In Acts 2:41–47 after Peter preached a message and baptized several thousand persons, something new happened. The Church—a new tribe—was born. These people came from many different languages and tribes. They were Jews by background, but had lived for centuries as Medes, Elamites, Parthians, Arabs, Cretes, Egyptians, and Libyans. Part of their identity, pride, belonging, security was in their tribe.

A few had already joined together constantly in prayer (Acts 1:14) and celebration (Acts 2:1). When Pentecost came, they were all were together in one place. Now, several thousand began to meet together everyday (Acts 2:46). When they faced threats and persecution, they raised their voices “in one accord” in prayer (Acts 4:24). They shared together financially (Acts 4:32).

They gathered together regularly for meetings (Acts 5:12). In one management meeting (Acts 6:5)

Jesus’ journey through the Church

Dr. Arley Loewen

a proposal pleased the whole group “together” and the Word of God spread. There was a theological issue: (Acts 15:25): “It seemed good to us, having become of one mind, to select men to send to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul.”

In these references, the word “together” or phrase “one accord” (homo-thymadon) is used, which means same and passion. Suddenly, at Pentecost with coming of the Holy Spirit, there is a new spiritedness, a spontaneous coming together where tribal ties are broken. There’s an identity in Jesus Christ living in people’s lives. This is a team spirit, not based on race, jobs, interest groups, towns, languages, but “where two or three are gathered in My name, I am there!”

Suddenly, at Pentecost with coming of the Holy Spirit, there is a new spiritedness, a spontaneous coming together where tribal ties are broken.

There’s an identity in Jesus Christ living in people’s lives. This is a team spirit, not based on race, jobs, interest groups, towns, languages, but “where two or three are gathered in My name, I am there!”

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The mark of a Christian The Church is the universal tribe, the new people of God infused with God’s Spirit. There is love, not simply one-on-one, but a gathering of “people who were not my people,” who used to be strangers and enemies.

The Church is the miracle of Christianity. It proves the Christian faith is legitimate, genuine, from God, of the Holy Spirit—a power that breaks tribal and linguistic barriers. If we cannot demonstrate this kind of universalism, we have no right to invite people to the Church. If we continue to erect walls, we might as well go home!

In Acts it took time and hard teaching for it to sink in. Samaritans were a despised people. Jews prayed that no Samaritan would be raised at the Day of Resurrection! But Peter saw what Philip accomplished through Spirit of God (Acts 8). When Peter laid hands on those who had believed and the Spirit came upon them, he was shocked. Two despised clans were now in one body together.

A strict Jew wouldn’t be a guest in a Gentile house, nor invite a Gentile to his home. Jews viewed Gentiles as unclean. Gentiles retaliated, mocking Jews for circumcision, Sabbath day, worship of an invisible God, and abstaining from certain foods. Then came Christ with the Kingdom of God, making them into one new man. In Acts 1:8 Jesus meant nations to be included.

It took a vision of “holy cloth” let down by four corners—four corners of the earth from where every nation comes (Acts 10)—for Peter to realize that God is no respecter of persons; he saw Gentiles receive the same gift of the Spirit. At conference council, the Holy Spirit came on the Church: “So, then God has granted the “nations” (strangers, outsiders) repentance unto life” (Acts 11:18).

This is the miracle, our witness: A people of God, a new tribe based on totally different identity and roots, a new constitution in Jesus Christ. New believers from any culture must experience the miracle of fellowship, togetherness, a sense of being a people, spontaneously being of one accord, a new team spirit.

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Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:9–10 to those who are scattered throughout Asia Minor from many different tribes: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God that you may declare the praises of who called you of darkness into his wonderful light.

Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God.” This is the miracle, our witness: A people of God, a new tribe based on totally different identity and roots, a new constitution in Jesus Christ.

Modern states through the League of Nations as well as the United Nations have tried to bring tribes together. As a people of Christ, we must do this through the Church!

New believers from any culture must experience the miracle of fellowship, togetherness, a sense of being a people, spontaneously being of one accord, a new team spirit.

The Church’s task is not complete till we see fellowships like this T develop. M Arley Loewen has a Ph.D. in Persian Studies and serves as a cultural consultant in Afghanistan.

EM Cup Hockey Tournament T. G. Smith Rec Centre Steinbach, Man. November 9–11, 2007 Final: Sunday, 2 p.m., Centennial Rink $2 final admission (for Hockey Ministries International) Referees needed, certification preferred.

Referees contact Sheldon Penner 204326-6089.

Teams contact Colin Loewen, caloewen@ mts.net, 204-346-1380 (home), 204-3719048 (work).

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

A reader’s viewpoint

Poor lady? No, poor boys!

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cannot forget an incident I recently witnessed in a grocery store.

An elderly, crippled little lady with a walker containing a few items turned into a checkout when two young boys rushed past her. She in a quiet voice said, “I was here first.” The boys looked at her, when their dad, who was coming up, said, “No, we were here first.”

Poor lady, I thought, but then I said to myself, Poor boys. Not only did their dad fail to teach them to respect the elderly, but also indicated to them that the truth can be bent if it’s to your advantage.

Next to loneliness many elderly may face doubts and fears about what may be lying ahead of them. How will their earthly pilgrimage end?

God’s Word has something to say to us regarding the elderly and/or widows. In Leviticus 19:32 we read, “Rise in the presence of the elderly, show respect to the elderly, and revere your God.” Exodus 22:22 says, “Do not take advantage of the elderly.” Isaiah 1:17, “Plead the cause of the widow.” And Proverbs 3:18 tell us, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

According to these verses we have an awesome responsibility toward the elderly.

I think we also need to be a strong link between the elderly and our youth in word and deed.

With today’s scientific advances and medical miracles, people live longer. Are we as Christians contributing to making these added years good years for them?

We applaud the government for caring for our seniors with a pension, subsidized housing, and Medicare, but monetary things are not all they need.

The care they get at various institutions and care homes may be good, the food healthy, the rooms clean, but what if they’re removed out of their community? They have contributed so much to family, church, community, and paid taxes for years. Does that not count for anything?

Often the elderly will say, “We have it so good” or “We have much to be thankful for.” Yet loneliness is the one thing that many will say is the most difficult about growing

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

Bettie Kehler

old. We have neatly settled them into that senior’s apartment or care home where they’ll be well taken care of, and we have left. Or have we?

How fast a day, a week, or even a month goes by when we’re busy. Even a two-hour movie goes by so fast. But have you ever thought of visiting a lonely senior together with your children?

Next to loneliness many elderly may face doubts and fears about what may be lying ahead of them. How will their earthly pilgrimage end? Will they suffer long? Will their family or doctor consider euthanasia as an option?

Will there be someone to “speak up for them when they cannot speak for themselves” anymore?

In our modern society, where we seem to have it all and know it all, do we tend to forget the wisdom and knowledge of our elderly, the invaluable things they have taught us, and the sacrifices they made for us?

Rather than forgetting, may we be found faithful in giving respect, dignity, honour, love, and security to our elderly at any T cost. M

Bettie Kehler is part of Blumenort EMC. Bettie and Peter Kehler have worked both with youth and elderly.

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with our missionaries Pauingassi

Baseball was a hit!

When I saw the people God had brought together for this camp at Pauingassi in northern Manitoba I felt so privileged.

I am always so encouraged when I see how the Lord works to put together the right team to minister together with their various unique gifts and special abilities.

This year the team was Roger and Cheryl Harder (Blumenort EMC) with their three children, Tashima, Nathaniel and Tyrell; Walter and Winnie Fehr with their daughter Tanya; and myself.

Our daily schedule included vacation Bible school and baseball. Some evenings we showed a movie. Ladies from Grant Memorial Baptist Church had prepared gift bags to give to the families on the reserve (cloth bag containing things like soap, tea, socks, facecloth, an Our Daily Bread booklet, Granola bar, candy).

Cheryl, Winnie, and I went out to meet the families with a gift in our hands.

This was a very rich experience for us to get into the individual homes. We were welcomed into the homes and people were cheered up with these gifts. What a wonderful way to meet the people in the community.

We were also granted the use of a

The Pauingassi team: Albert Martens, Winnie Fehr, Tanya Fehr, Roger Harder, Tyrell Harder, Cheryl Harder, Nathaniel Harder, Tashima Harder, and Walter Fehr.

barbecue and with Roger as barbecue chef we prepared hot dogs for the community one day. Since not everyone came to us, Tanya and Tashima packed up prepared hotdogs and went to the baseball field where a tournament was taking place and did the hotdog routine.

They took three trips. The ball players and fans were happy to receive free refreshments.

The ballpark was busy that week. We taught them baseball skills and drills and

then they also wanted to play ball. The local team was also hosting a tournament during part of that week, so other teams were in the community as well—from Bloodvein, Man., and Poplar Hill, Ont. Wow, some of those guys can hit that ball! We saw several home runs. It was a good class of slo-pitch ball and enjoyable to watch. We were also able to connect with several players and they invited us to bring a team as well.

DVBS was well organized by Winnie

Tanya Fehr and Tashima Harder with children

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THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

and the children were well behaved with good participation in the crafts. This was also a highlight for the children this week.

Tuesday evening we attended their church service. It began around 8 and it was over once everyone had shared— which was at 10:30.

We left this community on Saturday— and we were changed. All of us were affected by what we saw and what we felt for these people. Each one of us had our own unique experience to think through.

We were moved in our hearts and we went away loving the people of Pauingassi.

Above all, we know that Jesus loves them much more than we do and He hurts even more when they are hurting. He died for all of us to meet our needs.

Albert Martens

Theological journal still needs submissions!

Theodidaktos: Journal for EMC theology and education invites essays, book reviews, and articles for consideration within its third issue.

Editor Darryl Klassen, senior pastor at Kleefeld EMC, can be contacted at 204-377-4773, kemc@mts.net, or Box 344, Kleefeld, MB R0A 0V0. Essay length is a maximum of 3,500 words.

The Journal is a way to see EMC discussion and education in print.

The payment is to see EMCers listening to Scripture and to each other.

Albert Martens (Steinbach EMC) serves with Athletes in Action.

Hope and understanding for Pauingassi Since the tragic death of six-yearold Adam Keeper, Pauingassi First Nation has been under media scrutiny.

Although a troubled image has emerged, Mennonite Church Canada workers believe there is reason for hope and that understanding cultural issues will lead to greater compassion for the community.

Located 280 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg, Pauingassi’s people remained undisturbed for decades.

When the outside world found it, the community was unable to handle the jarring contrasts.

Neill von Gunten, co-director of Mennonite Church Canada Native Ministry, quotes Chief Dan George: “My people have come further in history than almost any culture on earth. They have come from the bow and arrow stage to the computer to the space age and it’s all happened in my lifetime.”

Henry and Elna Neufeld have been connected with Pauingassi since 1955, when community elders invited them to build a school. Over 15 years the Neufelds became a part of the community, teaching and building a solid church core while respecting traditional ways.

Even after Neufelds returned to Winnipeg, they maintained strong ties with Pauingassi, describing it as

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

“home.” Recent media coverage hurt them deeply. “We love the people,” Elna said.

“They are our best friends.” Although alcoholism is the largest problem there, they point out that not everyone has a problem.

Luke and Angie Enns joined Neufelds in Pauingassi this summer for a fiveday Vacation Bible School. “Anyone who thinks they know something about Pauingassi will tell you that this place is like hell,” he wrote recently. “But it’s not. It’s a community. And anyone prepared to let their guard down with these people will see this.”

Neill von Gunten is keenly aware of the impact white culture can have

Five-year-old Linden Owen was one of about 35 children who participated in week of Vacation Bible School. (photo by Henry Neufeld)

on traditional roles. As fishing and trapping became less viable, people searched for meaning and purpose.

When alcoholism appeared, traditional community-shared responsibility for parenting failed.

Eric Kennedy, the supervisor of Child and Family Services at Pauingassi, is convinced women will spur change.

Since Adam Keeper’s death, women created a community response team.

They patrol the area in the evenings, gathering children and taking them home. Kennedy and his wife, who is also a social worker, will train them to respond to crises.

Kennedy is concerned about Pauingassi’s media portrayal, because of recent positive changes. Since he arrived three years ago, solvent abuse has disappeared. The number of youth seeking a high school education has risen from two or three to 36. He attributed these dramatic shifts to the process of building relationships.

Kennedy suggests that the most important assistance any outsider can give to Pauingassi is their time and presence.

Neill von Gunten agrees. He quotes, “Don’t walk ahead of me; I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead, but just walk beside me and be my friend.”

MC Canada

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Northern Manitoba

The grounds are alive with children!

Spring comes suddenly once the ice is off Moak Lake. A young family of loons swims sedately across the still water. A short distance away a beaver industriously pushes a log toward the dam it is building. Summer will be short and there is an urgency to make use of every day. It may be quiet now, but shortly the volunteer groups will come to clean, paint, and repair the Midway Bible Camp.

And then the Bible camp begins. The grounds are alive with children! Kids swinging, swimming, tipping canoes, fishing, and singing. The chapel rings with young voices praising the Creator.

Quietly, one by one, they decide whether they want to have Jesus be the Lord and Saviour of their lives. The songs encourage them to grow in the Lord.

They sing, “Read your Bible, pray every day, and you’ll grow, grow, grow!” This is Bible camp and it is not possible without a dedicated and capable staff.

Young people and older people came to serve. We praise the Lord for Peter and Kristin Serger who have joined Continental Mission full-time. Together with Morgan and Christa Serger (yes, the men are brothers) they directed the Camp.

Our core of summer workers was small, and that is why we are so thankful for the three church youth groups that came to help. Gospel Fellowship Church and Stony Brook Fellowship came from Steinbach, as well as the Braeside EMC youth (Winnipeg). The latter group came for a longer time and also had Kids’ Rallies during two weekends.

An outgrowth of the Steinbach Bible College Mission Exposure was that several students came with their families to have Kids’ Rallies in different communities: Thompson, Thicket Portage, and Nelson House. Many children, including the

256 Campers at Midway, heard of Jesus’ love.

Lynn Lake also had a week of camp and a weekend Teen Retreat, bringing the total number of campers to 301.

The Camp is quiet once more. The campers have gone home with the songs of praise still ringing in their ears, and the lessons from God’s Word tucked into their memories.

We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide them in right living and bring them back again next summer. Pray that we will not have to turn away any children or teens next year because of staff shortages.

Anna Penner Anna Penner and her husband Bill (Ridgewood) serve with Continental Mission in northern Manitoba. They live in Thompson.

The Camp is quiet once more. The campers have gone home with the songs of praise still ringing in their ears, and the lessons from God’s Word tucked into their memories. We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide them in right living and bring them back again next summer.

Has your congregation used it? $2.50 per book for EMCers

New missionaries: Peter and Kristin Serger with Roain. Sergers want to work with youth in Thompson and surrounding communities.

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A 13-lesson study booklet that explores our wider role as Christians, with a striving for social justice as a biblical task.

Call or e-mail to order your copies today: 204-326-6401; emcmessenger@mts.net

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

with our churches

Trees crash, but Lord protects jumped into their canoes, still praying that the weather would hold until they completed the one-hour trip across the lake. Just as they approached the other side, the wind and the waves started up again, but by that time the group had reached the sheltered water, amazed at God’s perfect timing.

The women loaded the canoes and their gear onto the trailer, and were thankful to be on their way home, or so they thought. A number of larger trees were blocking the road and the group settled down to wait until firefighters came with chain saws and heavy equipment to clear the way.

As they eventually got on their way again, they were astonished to see the extent of the storm. Hundreds of trees were down, and the women again thanked God for keeping them safe. Though many of the women admitted that the storm was one of the scariest things they had ever experienced, they were also grateful for God’s goodness in answering prayer.

Kerri Schroeder Jodi Bartel, Merle Plett, Kerri Schroeder, and Irene Ascough wait for

Kleefeld, Man.: A group of ladies from Kleefeld church got more excitement than they planned for when they went on a camping trip to Lone Island Lake at the end of June.

On Friday night they drove to the lake in the Whiteshell area, then canoed across the lake to a site where they set up camp. Many of the women had little canoeing experience, so this as already quite an accomplishment.

They prayed for God’s guidance about whether to go or wait, and God clearly answer their prayers. All at once, the clouds rolled away, the winds died down, and the women jumped into their canoes.

As soon as it was light, the group start to pack up what was left of their campsite. Thankfully, their canoes were all unharmed, but the sky was still menacing and the water too choppy to head back across the lake to their vehicle. They prayed for God’s guidance about whether to go or wait, and God clearly answer their prayers.

All at once, the clouds rolled away, the winds died down, and the women

The next morning they set out on a trip that ended up taking most of the day, and firefighters to clear the roadway that was blocked after the previous night’s the women were exhausted storm in the Whiteshell. and sunburned by the time births they returned to camp for supper. The weddings weather had been hot and humid, and the women realized they would likely be MARTENS – KRAUSE: Abe Martens and Mary FRIESEN – to Calvin and June Friesen of Calgary, Alta., a daughter, Jessica June, on in for a storm that night. However, they Krause were married on September 23, 2007, August 28, 2007. were unprepared for the ferocity of the in Niverville, Man. FUNK – to David and Kendra Funk of Calgary, storm when it hit.

The wind battered their tents, causing MARTENS – SIEMENS: Andrew, son of Cornie Alta., a daughter, Abigail Elise Salome, on and Kathy Martens, and Jeri, daughter of Cliff August 16, 2007. the poles to flex almost to the ground. and Sally Siemens of Roseisle, Man., were Women in each tent could hear trees married on September 8, 2007, at Morden NEUFELD – to Johan and Leanne Neufeld of crashing down, but were unable to hear EMM Church, with Pastor Kelly Lesser of Winnipeg, Man., an adopted daughter, Ella women in the next tent. One tent lost its Roseisle officiating. The couple lives in Miami, Rose, on August 26, 2007. fly, allowing the rain to come pouring in, Man. DYCK – to Ken and Monica Dyck of Vanderhoof, but the other tent fared much worse.

B.C., a son, Jesse Owen, on September 8, PETERS – MYERS: Deric, son of Frank and A tree crashed down onto the tent, Annie Peters of Roseisle, Man., and Ashley 2007. injuring two of the women inside. They Myers were married on September 15, 2007, DYCK – to Kevin and Verna Dyck of Vanderhoof, managed to fight their way out of the in Roseisle, Man., with Pastor Kelly Lesser B.C., a son, Jasyn William, on September 17, collapsed tent to the one that was still of Roseisle officiating. The couple lives in 2007. standing. The entire group huddled in Roseisle.

ZACHARIAS – to Jared and Dwylla Zacharias that one tent, soaked to the skin, praying ZACHARIAS – PEACOCK: Nathan Joel of of Lethbridge, Alta., a daughter, Risa Danae, that God would keep them safe. God Calgary, Alta., son of Ken and Val Zacharias of on September 3, 2007. answered their prayers, and the wind Kleefeld, Man., and Janet Lynn of Edmonton, and rain eventually died down without Alta., daughter of Wes and Katie Peacock of WILLMS – to Topher and Jeannie Willms of causing more damage than was already Red Deer, Alta., were married on July 14, 2007, Pincher Creek, Alta., a daughter, Nelia Rayne, on August 14, 2007. in Edmonton. The couple lives in Calgary. done.

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

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Picnic and baptisms Roseisle, Man.: On June 11 we held our Sunday School Picnic on the grass field behind the church. During the morning service, every class prepared an item to share with the rest of the congregation—from skits and stories to leading worship.

As was appropriate for the day, Pastor Kelly Lesser preached on raising, teaching, and disciplining children. We had an afternoon of races, group games, treats, and fellowship. It started out as a beautiful day and then we all moved indoors as rain clouds came (except for those who decided to play soccer and get wet).

As a congregation, we welcomed new members into the church on August 19. We held the baptismal service at Stephenfield Lake, where Lucas

Sunday School Picnic fun

Klassen, Travis Friesen, Robin Siemens, and Rebecca Peters publicly made the decision to live for the Lord and in obedience to Him. Faye Wieler was also welcomed into our church through membership transfer.

It is exciting to see the commitments these people have made and their desire to use the gifts God has given them. We look forward to their involvement in the church and in God’s Kingdom!

Pam Dyck

It is exciting to see the commitments these people have made and their desire to use the gifts God has given them.

New members: In baptism Lucas Klassen, Travis Friesen, Robin Siemens, and Rebecca Peters publicly made the decision to live for the Lord and in obedience to Him. Faye Wieler became a member by transfer.

Baptisms, picnic, and camp Rosenort Fellowship (Man.): It is so awesome to have new people joining our church, and on May 27, we had five baptisms and one membership transfer. Frank Wiebe, Susie Voth, John Banman, Peter Banman, and Elfreida Banman were all baptized and received into membership, and Elma Banman transferred. Pastor John Driedger led the service that morning. We are excited to receive these new members and trust they will be excited to worship at RFC. June 3 we held our summer Sunday school picnic at the Rosenort Community Centre. Kids enjoyed popcorn, cotton candy, air bouncers and (of course) the races. Adults enjoyed the food, amazing race, food, and baseball. And just when your stomach recovered from lunch, the roll kuchen and watermelon came out.

Adults also had a chance to dethrone last year’s sprint champion, but to no avail. I was tied with Stefan Kornelsen until they said go, and then he pulled away. We had a warm and mostly sunny day for the picnic.

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Living Fountain Bible Camp kicked off on August 5 at Beaver Creek Bible Camp, north of Riverton. The camp runs for two weeks with ages ranging from eight to 15.

Camp is always an exciting time both for campers and staff. It plays such an important role in the spiritual well-being

of our children. If you get the chance to send your children or grandchildren, I highly recommend it. They will get to know other kids, counselors; and, most importantly, get to know Jesus in a deeper way.

Ryan Friesen

Baptism and membership transfer: (front) Tina Driedger, Elma Banman, Suzy Voth, Elfreida Banman, (back) Pastor John Driedger, John Banman, Frank Wiebe, Peter Banman.

Camp is always an exciting time both for campers and staff. It plays such an important role in the spiritual well-being of our children.

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

MWC delegation sees crisis, hope in Zimbabwe The Brethren in Christ Church Yet one congregation in Zimbabwe is alive and strong. supports 300 orphans and It has capable leaders. It is widows, churches care for providing for future leadership. many internally displaced Its four-day annual conference people, and there are plans to with the theme, Keeping our plant churches and to increase faith in times of trouble was a educational institutions. Many model of hope. The people are people pray to attend the MWC resilient, wise, hard-working, assembly in Paraguay in 2009. joyful, patient, and gracious.

The church has a clear They say of themselves, “We are sense of needing to speak to surviving.” government on behalf of the These are observations of people but agrees that public the eight-member, international challenges and loud protests will Koinonia Delegation sent to only result in more harshness.

Zimbabwe by MWC from August They have little faith that the 17–26. election in 2008 will resolve The delegation found a anything. country in escalating crisis, Koinonia delegation member Pascal Kulungu (left) and store owner between Pastors requested that the with overwhelming shortages empty shelves in a SaveMor food store in Bulawayo. delegation share what they of food, water and fuel, power (photo by Barbara Kaercher) have observed and pray for the outages, inflation variously people of Zimbabwe, for early reported from 5,000 to 7,000 percent, and good rains, that God will soften the Many people with jobs record unemployment, and low salaries. heart of the country’s president and that Many people with jobs choose between peace and justice will come. choose between paying for paying for transportation or buying The delegation presented a gift of transportation or buying food. food. So they walk up to 20 kilometres $15,000, which the church decided to one way. for relief. Government restrictions So they walk up to 20 kilometres use Teachers, paid the equivalent of $18 apply on importing goods and money. one way. Yet one congregation per month, are leaving. Drugs are in However, Larry Miller, MWC general short supply. People wait to get water secretary, said MWC wants to help supports 300 orphans and and to buy staples, with no guarantees. further. widows, churches care for many Many stores are bare or sparsely On his return, Pakisa Tshimika said stocked, but owners keep them open so he felt exhausted from observing the internally displaced people, and pain in the eyes of Zimbabweans he they don’t lose their vendor’s licence.

Some families don’t eat for three days. there are plans to plant churches loves.

The quality of education is dropping.

MWC, Ferne Burkhardt and to increase educational Hungry children fall asleep in class. and Koinonia members Some schools operate without desks institutions. or chairs, with few textbooks, paper, or pencils.

At the thirty-second annual BIC conference at Matopo Mission on August 22–26, organizers expected fewer than 2,000 people, but 3,600 came. The electricity went out. Many people did not have a meal the first night or the next morning. Water pumps didn’t work, creating a sanitation problem. By the second day, the cooking situation was resolved. People hauled in wood and 25 huge outdoor cooking pots to cook beef and mealie-meal.

For the first time, workshops were offered. Delegation members led workshops on conflict transformation, leadership development, and HIV/AIDS. Danisa Ndlovu, bishop of the BICC and president-elect of MWC, preached the Introducing the Koinonia team members at General Conference: Mesach Krisetya (Indonesia), Pascal Kulungu conference sermon on “Keeping our (DR Congo), John Byers (USA), Dan and Yvonne Snider Nighswander (Canada/South Africa), interpreter (name unknown), Beatriz Barrios (Uruguay), Barbara Kaercher (Germany). faith in difficult times.”

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

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Iranian Muslim students eager to study Mennonite history The Martyrs’ Mirror, a book first published in 1660 that documents stories of Christian martyrdom, generates lively theological discussions at a Shiite Muslim college in Iran.

“Wow, we thought it was only the Shiite who had so many martyrs,” is the first response of many students who read the book, said Hajj Muhammad Legenhausen, a professor at the Imam Khomeini Education and Research Institute in Qom, Iran.

This interest in Christianity, he said, stems from an unusual student exchange program initiated in 1998 by MCC that

makes it possible for North American students to study at the university in Qom and Iranian students to study at the Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre, a part of the Toronto School of Theology.

This exchange program, along with three interfaith dialogue conferences between Muslim and Mennonite theologians, helps Iranians see “another view of Christianity” that is often not portrayed by the media, said Legenhausen in a telephone interview when he visited the MCC offices in Akron, Pennsylvania in August.

MCC

Arli Klassen appointed overall director of MCC and Religious Studies from Arli Klassen has been her studies at Mennonite chosen as the next binational Brethren Bible College and executive director of MCC, the University of Winnipeg. taking leadership of the She and her husband organization’s work in more Keith Regehr are members than 50 countries. of Breslau Mennonite Church She has served for 16 years in Breslau, Ontario. They with MCC in Africa, U.S., and have two daughters who are Canada—including eight both university students in years in her current service Arli Klassen Ontario. as executive director of MCC Klassen is expected to replace Bert Ontario.

Klassen earned a Master of Social Lobe, MCC’s interim executive director, Work from the University of Toronto by next spring.

MCC and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Dr. John Roth to address Mennonite identity John D. Roth, history professor at Goshen College, will speak on Mennonite Identity in the 21st Century at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg, Man., on November 6 and 7, 2007.

Roth is presenting the John and Margaret Friesen Lectures in Anabaptist/ Mennonite Studies.

His topics are: Do Denominations Have a Future? The Challenge of Mennonite Identity in the 21st century (Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m.), Who Do You Say that I Am? Telling the Mennonite Story in a Pluralistic World

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(Nov. 7, 10:30 a.m.) and The Beauty of Holiness: Worship and the Future of Mennonite Ethics (Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m.).

These lectures are free and will be held in Laudamus Auditorium.

The event is co-sponsored by CMU, Mennonite Heritage Centre, and Centre for Mennonite Brethren Studies. Roth is director of the Mennonite Historical Society and editor of the Mennonite Quarterly Review.

MHS

Ed Martin, MCC Iran consultant, and Hajj Muhammad Legenhausen at an interfaith peace building conference in Waterloo, Ontario.

SBC offers class on Eating Disorders Steinbach Bible College will offer the intensive weekend course Body Image and Eating Disorders from November 15–17. Janice Priess, a counsellor and educator, with a master’s degree in counselling psychology from Providence Theological Seminary, will teach.

The course answers two questions: What does it mean to have a positive body image, and how do eating disorders develop?

“Whether you’re working with young adults, or living with them, these are important questions to answer,” says Priess, “as poor body image can lead to not only eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, but can affect how a person sees themselves interacting in the world.”

The course is intended to equip students to better help those struggling with body image and eating disorders.

Classes run on Thursday and Friday evenings (November 15 and 16) from 7–9:45, and all day Saturday (November 17) from 9–4 at the SBC campus.

SBC will offer another intensive weekend course during the second semester: Micro-Church Youth Ministry in a Mega-Church World. Tim Houck, with 14 years of youth ministry, will teach.

For information or to register, please contact SBC at 204-326-6451 or register online at www.sbcollege.ca.

SBC

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

shoulder tapping Riverton Gospel Chapel in the town of Riverton in Manitoba’s Interlake is ready to accept a fulltime pastor. We are a congregation of about a hundred attendees in a Sunday morning service. We are an energetic group, with a good representation of all age groups, and a diversity of vocation. You may direct inquiries to Waldon Plett (204-378-2975, weplett@lakenet.ca) or Brad Kornelsen (204-378-2329).

Endeavour Fellowship Chapel in east-central Saskatchewan, is currently looking for a pastor. We have a fairly young congregation consisting of 18–20 families, with about 16 children in Sunday School.

Contact Tom Treen (Elders’ Chairman) at 306-5473383 or tdpromise@sasktel.net.

Are you an enthusiastic couple called by God to serve in full-time ministry? Hillside Christian Fellowship (EMC) seeks a pastor to serve in full-time ministry with a part-time emphasis on youth. We are a family oriented rural church located in the heart of a farming community 20 minutes south of La Crete, Alta. Our average attendance is about 60 people.

Musical ability is an asset. Contact Johnny Wieler at 780-928-3880 or email AVLL@siscanada.ca.

Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a youth worker or couple to develop a program for youth and junior youth. PFC is a small church in the village of Pelly, located in central Sask., close to the Manitoba border. Applicants need to have a strong personal commitment to Jesus Christ and a sense of God’s call on their life. He/she will need to be flexible, have strong communication, organizational, relational and leadership skills, as well as being self-motivated. Music skills would be an asset. Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306-595-2074. E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship.com.

Fish Creek Christian Fellowship (a nine-year-old EMC congregation meeting in South Calgary) is seeking a bi-vocational senior pastor to begin this summer or fall. We currently have about 40 people attending, and our aim is to reach the lost in our area.

We are looking for an organized, selfmotivated candidate with a strong pulpit ministry and gifts in evangelism, discipleship and visionary leadership for church re-planting.

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.

Eden Health Care Services, based in Winkler, Man., seeks a chief executive officer. EHCS is owned by Manitoba Mennonite Churches. Eden provides acute and community mental health recovery services in collaboration with our faith constituencies, local communities, and the Regional and Manitoba Health Authorities. It has 140 employees with a budget of nearly $10 million.

The candidate: A visionary, strategic leader, planner and team-builder capable of supervising and directing all aspects of the Eden group of mental health, residential, vocational employment, counseling, and community development

THE MESSENGER October 3, 2007

programs. An understanding and affirmation of Anabaptist faith and values is essential.

Qualifications: Relevant university education or equivalent training, strong management and communications skills, a minimum of five years of related experience, demonstrating an understanding of healthcare management and supporting partners and constituencies.

Submit resumes by October 15, 2007, to Search Committee Chair, John Janzen, EHCS, Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A4, fax: 204-325-8742, email: jajanzen1@hotmail.com.

The EMM Conference seeks a full-time executive director in its Winnipeg, Man., office. Duties and Responsibilities: Participate with the General Board in the preparation of the Ministry Plan; develop action plan to achieve results; manage staff resources to carry out the Conference’s mandate, report on Conference activities to the General Board; communicate, reporting, and interact with the Council, General Board, and Regions; ensure appropriate systems and process are in place to carry out mandate of the Conference in all required areas including operations, financial management, internal controls, compliance with taxation and other regulatory agencies and risk management; and other matters as determined from time to time or directed by the General Board.

Qualifications and Attributes: Experienced leader with demonstrated capabilities of working with multiple priorities; strong communication and organizational skills to work effectively with the council, general board, regions and staff; and collaborative approach to build consensus on matters while staying focused on achieving the desired results.

The EMMC is a conference of churches holding to the Anabaptist-peace position with ministry in Canada, USA, Mexico, Belize, and Bolivia (www. emmc.ca). The successful applicant must be fully supportive of EMMC’s mission and vision and be prepared to sign the EMMC statement of faith.

Please submit your confidential application/ resume stating qualifications, experience, and statement of faith to The Moderator, EMMC, Box 52059, Niakwa PO, Winnipeg, MB R2M 5P9.

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 church planting coordinator Ward Parkinson, 204-326-6401, e-mail: emcward@mts.net.

Steinbach Bible College invites applications for the position of director of development.

The director of development implements the philosophy and long-term strategy of

development that includes operational giving, capital campaigns, planned giving, and endowment development. The position is a fulltime administrative position. Salary is based on related experience.

The successful candidate will have a background in donor development or business experience, effective administrative and leadership skills, relational skills, and work toward CFRE certification. Candidate must be in agreement and sign the Lifestyle Statement and the Statement of Faith of the college.

Position to begin October 15, 2007, or as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

Submit application with resume and cover letter to Rob Reimer, President, Steinbach Bible College, 50 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4, e-mail rreimer@sbcollege.ca.

MCC Manitoba invites applications for executive director, El’dad Ranch. El’dad Ranch, located near Steinbach, Man., is a faith-based program providing residential and vocational support services to men with intellectual disabilities, including some in conflict with the law. This is a full-time position open to salary or service worker support. Application deadline is November 15, 2007.

All MCC workers are required to have a Christian faith, be actively involved in a Christian church, and have a personal commitment to nonviolence and peacemaking.

For a job description, visit www.mcc.org. Send application to Janelle Siemens at jms@mennonitecc. ca or call 204-261-6381 for information.

MCC seeks a resource generation network director for Akron, PA. The director gives leadership network of staff in MCC offices across Canada and the United States and coordinates the establishment of standards in fund-raising, setting goals, and building network capacities.

Experience required in nonprofit fund-raising with excellent skills in communication and management. Candidates of a gender or ethnic group typically underrepresented are encouraged to apply. Contact Kathy Jackson at krj@mcc.org or 717-859-1151 for job description.

Camp Assiniboia¸ Headingley, Man., requires a manager, beginning in April 2008.

Key attributes being sought include energy, effective communication and operational knowhow. Direct inquiries to Director of Camping Ministries, Mennonite Church Manitoba, 200600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2J1, camps@mennochurch.mb.ca, 204-895-2267.

EMC Board of Leadership and Outreach seeks planters to start congregations in Canadian cities.

The national office works with local churches and regions to envision, equip, and respond to these needs. Cities envisioned are Grande Prairie, Edmonton, Regina, Windsor, and London. Also needed are core families willing to be part of the church plants. Together it can happen! Contact church planting ccordinator Ward Parkinson at 204-326-6401, emcward@mts.net.

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Barkman and Eidse honoured for conference-wide work card didn’t include a restaurant gift certificate, Barkman quipped that he was prepared to share Larry’s.

“It has been a good two years,” Larry Eidse said in response. “I have great respect for the people I’ve worked with, and deeply appreciate the fantastic job every member of the staff is doing.”

Eidse valued how quickly he was accepted by bout 40 people gathered on the evening national office staff and made kind remarks about each of September 14, 2007, at Steinbach EMC of them. “David Thiessen, our conference pastor, also to recognize the conference-wide work of fills the role of pastoral care in the office,” he said. “He national office staff members Len Barkman takes good care of us as the German shepherd of the and Larry Eidse. Barkman and Eidse are moving on little flock.” to other opportunities—with the word “retirement” Len Barkman gave thanks to God. He said, “So I avoided. have many very fond memories, and seven years is a Len Barkman served as General Secretary from good long time to be able to create memories, and to 2000 to 2007, relating to the General Board, Board of appreciate them, and I will carry those with me a long Missions, and (for much of that time) Board of Trustees. time.”

Larry Eidse served part-time since 2005 as Executive “I appreciate the trust that was put in me right Secretary to the Board of Trustees. from early on to carry out the work of the boards,” The evening’s event, held in the small chapel, was he said. He spoke positively of working with staff, attended by those honoured and family members, pastors, missionaries, and with other organizations and national board members, and national office staff. agencies. “There has never been a dull moment that I After punch, words of welcome and prayer were by can remember.”

EMC moderator Ron Penner. During the prayer Penner Barkman said he “had some anxious thoughts” about said “may we always be reminded of the opportunities finding a new General Secretary, “where I had doubted all of us have to serve You faithfully.” Dinner was that we could ever find someone in June and have him catered by Corinne Nickel of Steinbach EMC. in place by the end of August”—yet it happened.

Near the start and close of the evening Fresh and Later in the evening the moderator invited Tim and Green (Steve Bell) and How Beautiful (Twyla Paris) Brenda Dyck to come forward. Tim, formerly with were sang in duet by Wannetta Fast and Becky Buhler, Wycliffe (in both Dallas and Calgary), began work as accompanied by pianist Ruth EMC General Secretary on Anne Peters—all national September 1. Dyck spoke office workers. favorably of EMC national Words of tribute were given office staff, of useful to Len and Larry by Gordon procedures in place, and of Reimer (Board of Trustees), Len’s orientation.

Ernie Loewen (Board of Ernie Loewen closed in Missions), Terry Smith (on prayer: “Father God, we behalf of conference office thank you that we had the staff), and the moderator. opportunity to worship and to The moderator presented praise you tonight. We marvel Len with a card and a golf at how you call ordinary driver; Larry received a people to do extraordinary card with a restaurant ministries.”

Moderator Ron Penner presented Len Barkman and Larry Eidse with gifts gift certificate. When the Terry M. Smith on behalf of the Conference. (photos by Becky Buhler) moderator added that Len’s

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