Messenger The
EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 45 NUMBER 18 OCTOBER 17, 2007
Sola Scriptura!
Scripture Only! Sola Fide! Faith Only! Sola Gracia! Grace Only!
Celebrating the
Reformation
The
Messenger
The privilege of holding Scripture
A
EDITOR Terry M. Smith ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors. THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main Street, Steinbach, Manitoba. Subscriptions: $12 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84). Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. 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. 20 – November 14 (copy due November 2)
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editorials s we near Reformation Sunday (October 28), do we realize at what a high price we Protestants gained the privilege of translating, copying, distributing, owning, reading, and studying the Bible? Do we remember how Bibles were confiscated and burned, and how translators suffered for their actions? For being heirs of the Protestant Reformation, some of us are in an odd place. Too many Protestant Christians leave their Bibles at home on Sunday morning. Biblical illiteracy in mainstream Canada risks rivaling that of the Middle Ages.
For being heirs of the Protestant Reformation, some of us are in an odd place. Too many Protestant Christians leave their Bibles at home on Sunday morning. Biblical illiteracy in mainstream Canada risks rivaling that of the Middle Ages.
Some conservative Anabaptist circles have regressed to leaving it for leaders to study and interpret Scripture; this move reflects 16th century Roman Catholicism better than the original Anabaptist movements or even modern Catholicism. What might think English reformer John Wycliffe (d. 1384), who sparked the translation of the New Testament from Latin into English? Or Martin Luther (d. 1546), who translated it from Greek to German? What of sixteenth-century Anabaptists who sometimes astounded church leaders with their knowledge of Scripture? Because of Wycliffe, Luther, and others we have copies of Scripture to own, read, and study. How shall we honour their hard-won gifts to us? Part of our response can be shown by carrying Bibles to services, valuing exegetical and doctrinal preaching, publicly reading more of Scripture, and engaging in Bible study (individual and T group). M Terry M. Smith
The necessity of doctrine
P
rotestant Reformers—Anabaptists among them—were convinced of the need for proper doctrine. There are major doctrines to be proclaimed and false teachings to be avoided. Doctrine is a basic need of the Christian Church. Indeed, the Christian Church can’t identify itself properly apart from teaching. We relate to Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord, which involves knowing to some measure what these terms mean. Experience or relationship isn’t enough. What is that experience based on and what authority does it have for us? A relationship with whom and what does it involve? Explain this and you are teaching. Teaching and doctrine are synonyms. If people say, “We don’t teach doctrine, just the Bible,” they misunderstand what the word doctrine means or fail to recognize how we all are interpreters of Scripture. Scripture itself says we are to “encourage
one another by sound doctrine” (Titus 1:9) and “teach in accord with sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1). All Scripture is “useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). What’s a major doctrine? A sound starting point is located within The Apostles’ Creed: A central focus on Christ and his work, and our response to Him. Early Anabaptists were able to take The Apostles’ Creed and show how woven into it is to be an emphasis on discipleship and ethics—not doctrine isolated from life. Do we use the Creed and show that? Perhaps in the past some Mennonites memorized a catechism without understanding, but, when well done, structured teaching remains useful. “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do so, you will save both yourselves and your T hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16). M Terry M. Smith THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
CMI appointments Paul Giesbrecht, a graduate of Steinbach Bible College, is the new director of Continental Mission. He has previously served in leadership at Midway Bible Camp. Ferlin Abrahamson of Birch River has joined the Board of Directors of CMI. He directed Steeprock Bay Bible Camp for 10 years, and been involved for another 11 years. Ferlin is the former pastor of Christian Fellowship Church (EMC). We welcome Ferlin, Elizabeth, and family into the Mission. CMI
coming events 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
Ferlin and Elizabeth Abrahamson with children Jeffry and Bethany
Note: Continental Mission seeks to build the Church among First Nations in Canada, mostly in northern Manitoba.
Paul Giesbrecht
EQUIPPING MEN AND WOMEN FOR THE MINISTRIES OF THE CHURCH
Winter 2008 Courses Practical Theology: Critical Issues in Congregational Worship One-week intensive: February 18–22, Christine Longhurst
The Problem of Evil in Biblical Perspective Monday, 6:00–8:45 p.m., Pierre Gilbert
The New Testament: A Theological Introduction Tuesday, 2:30–5:15 p.m., George Shillington
History of Christianity: From Apostles Creed to Vatican II Wednesday, 2:30–5:15 p.m., Karl Koop
Theology: Barth and Bonhoeffer Tuesday, 6:00–8:45 p.m., Harry Huebner
Contemporary Theological Themes: Hermeneutics and Critical Theory Wednesday, 6:00–8:45 p.m., Chris Huebner
www.ministrystudies.ca 500 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2 Tel: 204-487-3300 | Fax: 204-837-7415
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 7 Maintaining Pastoral Identity and Dignity in the Face of Criticism A one-day workshop with Dan Unrau Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 204-487-3300 ext. 322 or 350 www.ministrystudies.ca 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 December 1 EMC Conference Council meeting St. Vital EMC Winnipeg, Man. 204-326-6401 January 25–27, 2008 Break Forth Canada 2008 Shaw Conference Centre Edmonton, Alta. www.breakforthcanada.com
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
3
What difference does
Evangelical Anabaptism
?
make
Rev. Terry M. Smith
Reformation Sunday (October 28)
reminds us of central truths:
Sola Scriptura!
Scripture Only! Sola Fide!
Faith Only! Sola Gracia!
Grace Only!
T
he Protestant Reformation recaptured Scripture’s authority and focus on Christ, the Church’s precious centre. Within it, the Radical Reformation drew out truths that continue to influence evangelical and mainline churches of today. Permit, then, a partial, inadequate response to the topic posed to me.
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Anabaptists varied in the sixteenth century, as do current evaluations of them. However, Menno Simons and other evangelical Anabaptists are respected for holding to Scripture’s final authority, salvation by grace through faith in Christ, and believers’ baptism.
Anabaptist history Anabaptists varied in the sixteenth century, as do current evaluations of them. However, Menno Simons and other evangelical Anabaptists are respected for holding to Scripture’s final authority, salvation by grace through faith in Christ, and believers’ baptism. As highlighted by Harold Bender during World War Two, we benefit from studying the major emphases of “original evangelical and constructive Anabaptism”: Christianity as discipleship, voluntary membership shown in holy living, and “an ethic of love and nonresistance as applied to in all relationships” (The Anabaptist Vision). Early evangelical Anabaptists viewed teaching, ethics, and lifestyle as inseparable—as we need to do today. Lester Olfert, when EMC foreign secretary, took some Nicaraguan brethren to Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach, Man. The settlers’ effects likely didn’t say Mennonite to them. The leaders, however, honoured early Anabaptist leaders and connected with their spiritual history. The value of Menno My copy of The Complete Writings of Menno Simons shows evidence of some study. Why study Menno? It’s because Menno, though imperfect, is a teacher. We can profitably learn from any leader of the Protestant Reformation (such as Menno Simons, Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, or John Calvin), even if we disagree with them at times. They often sharply disagreed with each other. Frequently that disagreement is instructive! THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
Menno was a Reformation leader who spoke against some beliefs, practices, and lifestyles of magisterial Protestants and Catholics alike—a Protestant’s Protestant. His discipleship cost him dearly. We study his writings in relatively peaceful, prosperous Canada; Menno penned them with a price on his head while his family suffered. Ironically, who best helps many of us to understand Menno? It’s perhaps Rev. Leonard Verduin, by his act of translating Menno’s writings into English (published by Herald Press). Verduin, who died a few years ago in the United States, was part of the Christian Reformed Church. Did Verduin value early Anabaptism? Yes. Both his affection and critique are recorded in his book The Reformers and Their Stepchildren (Herald Press, 1964). Evangelism Early Anabaptists, it’s said, were the forerunners of the modern missions movement. They practiced evangelism when other Protestant Reformers were unconvinced. Hutterians are described as the flaming evangelists of the sixteenth century; and, because of evangelism, many Anabaptists literally died in the flames. Later, because of persecution and compromise, the Anabaptist church hesitated to share its faith. In the 1870s, while some Mennonites sought a quiet life in Canada, Presbyterians here sent a missionary to Taiwan; the former evangelists became silent while Calvin’s followers favoured missions. Still, the past 60 years has shown much change in EMC attitude toward missions. Roughly three of four dollars in our conference budget currently goes toward missions. Community To be an Evangelical Anabaptist is to be called to live our faith in Christ together with others. Our history as a Believers Church is bloodied by those who died for a church decided by personal faith, not by birth. It seems ironic, then, that some people try to identify Mennonites/Anabaptists by their surname. Would Ulrich Zwingli smile wryly at modern attempts to identify Mennonites/Anabaptists by 5
birth, rather than by rebirth? He might even argue he has the last laugh! However, the Swiss Reformer would likely be amazed at how the worldwide Anabaptist church now encompasses many cultures. By early Anabaptist heritage, we offer a rich sense of community. Compared to the early years of the Kleine Gemeinde in Canada, the EMC is now far more welcoming to people of a non-Anabaptist or a non-Low German background. Many of us are evidence of that! Even after 133 years in Canada, though, the EMC remains a small conference with more than half of our churches residing in one province and likely 80 percent of our members having Low German cultural roots. Clearly, the EMC has much more to do to form a wider community in Christ across multicultural Canada.
Christ didn’t enter our world so that we would live in isolation while others live in need.
Biblical justice It’s been said that Menno Simons wasn’t so quiet in the land! He declared that a “true evangelical faith cannot lie dormant,” but cares for those around us (Complete Writings, p. 307). Simons spoke for religious freedom and against war. He rebuked leaders: “O kings and rulers of the land, where indeed is your faith and love with their pious nature? Where is your fear of God, your burning lamp, your humble heart dead unto sin? ...The pitiful moaning and misery of the wretched men does not reach your ears. The sweat of the poor we find in your houses, and the innocent blood on your hands” (p. 195). He protested against those who “tax and toll, grasp and grab, without any measure or mercy; they suck the very marrow from the bones of the poor” (p. 367). He took on judges, lawyers, advocates; captains, knights, foot soldiers, and “similar bloody men”; priests, monks, and preachers; wicked merchants and retailers (pp. 367–368). Christ didn’t enter our world so that we would live in isolation while others live in need. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor that you through his poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Peace Are we agents of peace? “Instead of taking up arms, we should do whatever we can to lessen human distress and suffering, even at the risk 6
of our own lives. In all circumstances we should be peacemakers and ministers of reconciliation” (part of The Life of Peace, EMC Statement of Faith). Catholics and Protestants currently share power in the Northern Ireland Assembly. Our Lord doesn’t favour Catholics and Protestants killing each other; the reconciling work of his Cross points elsewhere. That’s my conviction as a Christian and as a descendent of Protestants in Northern Ireland. Christians need to oppose war, to remind others there is sadness, not glory, in war. Whether or not an individual claims to be a pacifist, there’s an ugliness to war that calls for more thought and response than happens from behind our EMC pulpits. Rodney Sawatzky wrote in 1972 that “given the seriousness of the world’s social ills, the Mennonite pacifist witness is much too weak.” He says the Mennonite church “dare not water down the pacifist implications of the Good News in order to gain numbers by a cheapened grace” (Call to Faithfulness, CMBC, pp. 194–196). Does disagreeing with pacifism mean we settle for cheap grace? Not necessarily. However, the Church does need to respond to the violence of our age.
Does disagreeing with pacifism mean we settle for cheap grace? Not necessarily. However, the Church does need to respond to the violence of our age. Is there value in Evangelical Anabaptism today? To borrow one of Dr. Stan Hamm’s expressions: Absolutely! The value, though, isn’t shown by extolling it while minimizing how our practice sometimes contradicts our theology. The value of Evangelical Anabaptism is in living it through following Christ. Is to be a Christian a noun or a verb? Early Anabaptists would say that without action a claim means little. What difference does Evangelical Anabaptism T make? That remains to be seen. M Rev. Terry M. Smith is Executive Secretary to the Board of Church Ministries.
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
writings shared
Politics Under God by John H. Redekop (Herald Press, 2006), 224 pp., $14.99. ISBN 978-0-83619355-8. Reviewed by Erica Fehr, member of Kleefeld EMC.
R
edekop’s three chief purposes are to discuss the central issues in churchstate relations, to provide suggestions and guidelines on how to navigate faith and citizenship, and to present a positive view of government and church-state relations. He calls this “Anabaptist realism” or “reformed Anabaptism.”
A particularly useful chapter compares the foundational “beliefs” of each political party to Christian beliefs.
Erica Fehr
his approach is positive. He encourages involvement at any level based on ability and opportunity as long as Christian values are not compromised. Much of his argument is for those in the Anabaptist theological tradition who tend to have a negative view of politics. He reminds us that many duties that good governments take on— particularly in education, poverty programs and healthcare—were initiated by Christians. For that reason it’s appropriate to be involved in these areas as policymakers. A particularly useful chapter compares the foundational “beliefs” of each political party to Christian beliefs. By presenting them in this way Redekop shows how each party has points of agreement and disagreement with Christianity. Understanding this allows us to see how we can to work alongside or within each political party and combats the tendency Christians often have to become deeply invested in a particular party as the “Christian” one. My disappointment is that Redekop chose not to address issues of international politics, and his few comments do not reflect his usually careful thought and understanding. This might be because it’s outside his area of expertise, could require another book, or involves the controversial topic of military action. I suggest, though, that it is in international politics where the need and the risk are the most urgent, and, therefore, discussion regarding politics and Christianity is most relevant. I recommend Politics Under God for readers interested in politics—and even more for those who are T ambivalent or find it difficult to see politics positively. M
The central issue Redekop identifies is that church and state operate as two separate “kingdoms” with different purposes, citizens, and ethical frameworks. He goes through the church’s historical and modern attempts to resolve or cope with that tension, from fusing Church and State to complete withdrawal from the political arena. Redekop disagrees with these extremes. He says that attempting to create a Christian state must fail. Either the Christian ethic of unselfish love for the entire world or the State’s requirement to protect the person, property and economic well-being of its own citizens will give way to the other. Isolationism is mistaken because government is Godordained and expresses his care for all humankind. To withdraw completely is impossible because Christians are physically part of a state—even doing nothing is participation. Others’ lives and well-being are the church’s concern (whether or not My disappointment is that Redekop chose not to address they follow Christ) and political decisions issues of international politics. This might be because it’s directly affect them. The suggestions and guidelines outside his area of expertise, could require another book, Redekop offers on navigating faith and citizenship are fairly general but or involves the controversial topic of military action.
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
7
The Dungeon
Q
and the Cathedral
uiet steps echoed off the stone walls as visitors walked through the cathedral. With the sun filtering through the stained glass windows, I sat in awe of the grandeur in front of me. The towering columns and the vast arches of St. Denis made of feel insignificant. Not only was I in Paris for the first time, I was in that cathedral that had been around in the 12th century. It felt like I was being transported to a different time and place as images from the 12th century drifted through my imagination. What were the circumstances like 900 years ago? How did people back then view the church? Was it a place of meaningful worship or was it a place of hypocrisy and greed? Did the church look after and nurture the people, or were they just after the money? As I reviewed all that my professors and teachers tried so hard to teach me about church history, I began to get a picture of what this magnificent building might represent.
Looking back at both the dungeon and the cathedral I see that God is the author of all beauty, whether it is in a building or a heart. The picture that entered my mind filled me with mixed feelings. On one hand, this structure so beautifully spoke of God’s beauty and splendour that I was deeply grateful for the time and money that went into its design and construction. On the other hand, I was mindful of the corruption and greed of the church in that era. Knowing that money used to build this cathedral likely came from over-taxed peasants or the 8
Matthew Plett
sale of indulgences cast a shadow over the building’s beauty. This shadow took on new meaning when a few days later I stood in the dungeon of Trachselwade Castle in Switzerland. Thinking of all the Anabaptist prisoners held within those thick stone walls, St. Denis in all its glory began to dim in comparison. What can be more beautiful than someone giving everything they have, even their very life, for the sake of Christ? It was convicting to stand in that dark, cold dungeon and think of what the early Anabaptists went through to ensure the future of biblical Christianity in their communities. Even though that dungeon had no beauty or splendour, it played a role in showing me that a heart fixed on God has a beauty that no cathedral can match. Even after seeing that the state of the heart is what matters, I am left with many unanswered questions. Can a building really point us towards God even if it was built in pride and materialism? Can a dungeon be made beautiful by what goes on inside? Looking back at both the dungeon and the cathedral I see that God is the author of all beauty, whether it is in a building or a heart. I am grateful that I got to see a glimpse of both on my trip through Europe. This leaves me with one final question: How do I as a twenty-first lter) owa century Christian h S Jon to b y o create things that reflect h P ( God’s beauty while having a heart T like the early Anabaptists? M Matthew Plett (Morweena) is from Arborg, Man., and works on his father’s farm. Currently he is the men’s Resident Assistant at Rosedale Bible College in Ohio. This article was first published in Brotherhood Beacon (October 2007). THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
with our missionaries Tadoule Lake
More than a truckload of blessings
We had a fantastic baseball camp at Tadoule Lake in northern Manitoba on July 8–13. There were so many blessings for us and them that a big truck couldn’t hold it. We were an unusual team in ministry because we put together the strength of five churches. Athletes in Action took the initiative. Karen Barkman (Blumenort) and I (Steinbach) are EMCers. Dave Schmidt, Brittany McIntosh, Nicole Melnyk, Josh Bernier, and Brenda Scharach were from Grant Memorial Baptist Church (Winnipeg). Conrad and Lois Dueck and their four children were from Gospel Mennonite Church (EMMC) in Winnipeg; they did the VBS. Edgar and Gisele Schreiber were our cooks from north of Selkirk, Man. The gifts and talents were put together by God.
Memorial and our head baseball coach, says this about the trip: “We didn’t know what to expect when we left Winnipeg. We have hoped to see lives impacted through God’s power, and we hope to be warmly accepted into a community that is very different from our own. What we experienced was more fun, fulfilling, and God-filled than we could have imagined. “We learned that while it is easy to love the people of Tadoule Lake, to love them like Christ is something different. It was eye-opening and heartbreaking to know and understand a little more
that God loves each and every one of us equally, regardless of race, religion, lifestyle or sin. “We went to this community full of hope—for safety, hope that God would use our presence, hope for an eternal impact upon their lives. Now that we’re home we continue to have hope—the hope that what God has started will be finished and completed.” Albert Martens Albert Martens (Steinbach) is with Athletes in Action.
“We learned that while it is easy to love the people of Tadoule Lake, to love them like Christ is something different.” There was great unity and joy among the team. As Matt Dehaene, a young pilot, lined up the plane to land on the incoming runway, there was a bright rainbow touching down. It was so beautiful; it was like the Lord was telling us there is a place of hope and blessings. We found it that way in the next week. We were received very well. The people of Tadoule Lake were needy. However, God allowed us to touch the people spiritually—and physically, too, as children came for hugs. A young man wanted to be on my (old man’s) team as he came to put his arms around me. We did several VBS sessions and put on some fireworks on Beach Day. We held a men’s breakfast (a first ever) and prayed for men to come. I went to the band office 15 minutes before the start of the breakfast, and they announced it on the radio. Fifteen men came. We were blessed in so many ways. The flight was good, and we were so happy to have Matt fly with us. He has attended our church many times, and has played the trumpet in our church. Dave Schmidt, youth pastor at Grant
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
Tadoule Lake coaches and baseball camp participants
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.
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Mexico
EMMC and EMC merge (in Mexico) At the first annual weekend convention at Steinreich Bible School on September 21–23, 2007, a number of decisions were made affirming earlier decisions to merge Mexican EMC and EMMC churches. For some time church leaders from Canada and Mexico had seriously considered the benefits of forming one fellowship of churches that would over time become independent of the conferences in Canada. In March of this year representatives met in Mexico and made a merger proposal that was accepted by churches and mission boards. At the same meeting it was proposed and accepted that Don and Minna Thiessen would be asked to move to Mexico for one year to help the churches make the transition from mission churches to an indigenous conference.
A major decision involved the choosing of a name for this new conference. Chosen by ballot was Conferencia Misionera Evangelica (CME). The weekend convention began with an inspirational evening on Friday for leaders from the churches. Diedrich Harms from Lubbock, Texas, spoke on Moses as a leader using Hebrews 11. On Saturday morning the newly formed
Direktiva: (Names to come from Len Sawatzky)
Direktiva (Council) met to begin the administrative work of the conference. In effect, this was an ad hoc group because no officers had been officially appointed. An earlier decision had been made that the Direktiva would consist of the pastor and congregational chair from each of the seven churches. Len Sawatzky, EMMC mission director, participated at all the meetings and spoke at the Saturday night session as well. The seven churches are from Nuevo Ideal (Durango), Oasis, Lowe Farm, (67), Santa Rita (79), Los Jayos (Hillside), and El Valle. At the Direktiva meetings the secretary (Willie Wiebe), the treasurer (Henry Rempel), and the vice chair (John Froese) were appointed. The General Assembly voted to appoint John Wall as the chair of the Direktiva. A major decision involved the choosing of a name for this new
conference. Two names that had been suggested from an earlier meeting were presented for discussion and a vote by the General Assembly. Chosen by ballot was Conferencia Misionera Evangelica (CME). Another major decision, showing commitment to the new conference, was that each congregation would forward 10 percent of its Sunday offerings to the work of the Direktiva. Although the administrative business of the weekend was historically significant, what many will remember most will be the inspirational sessions. The singing in Spanish, German, and English was led by a music team from El Valle. It was obvious from the hearty singing accompanied by guitars and piano that the songs were a deep expression of their worship, no matter what the language. While singing was in three languages, it was evident that Low German is most
The first annual weekend convention of the newly formed Conferencia Misionera Evangelica was held September 21–23, 2007.
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THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
familiar to these congregations, since all the meetings and speaking were in Low German. Don had to admit to thinking his own words during the singing of a Spanish song to the tune of Red River Valley. To the River felt like back home. The weekend also had a lot of time for visiting before and after the meals. The banter and laughter around the tables was good to hear, and seemed to strengthen the general sense of optimism on the weekend. Don Thiessen, John Wall On Saturday morning the newly formed Direktiva (Council) met to begin the administrative work of the conference.
Don Thiessen (Ridgewood) and John Wall (Straffordville) are serving in Mexico.
Paraguay
Alto Refugio celebrates expanded building!
We are so excited to have actually been able to celebrate this special inauguration event with many very special people (see www.altorefugio.org for pictures on the blog). Most of those present for this event on September 28 were not important society people, but they were important to us as friends, and many of them are part of the Alto Refugio (High Refuge) family. For days before the event there was a buzz of activity getting the last touches to the construction, cleaning, and cooking. We had no idea how many might show up, but we prepared lots of finger food and an especially big cake, and there was more than enough for everyone (about 300 people came). There was the usual confusion as some musicians did not show, but others had offered, so that all the special numbers were excellent, and the music during the socializing time afterward was superb. Besides the music, those who contributed to the program were: The architect that has done a wonderful job (always enthusiastic with the building project), the presenter of certificates of appreciation,
Before
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
a message by a pastor friend, and an audio-visual review by me. There’s a Scripture song that just can’t be left out of any occasion (see Hannah’s song in I Samuel 2). So now we have a three-story building, and a challenge to use these beautiful facilities for the glory of God. Thanks for all of you that are standing with us regularly in prayer and encouragement. We want this work to be different than any other work that is being done so that all can see that there is a God who is above all. Thank you for all the support that we have received from many of you to make this work possible. This building project is finished, but our vision extends on to more possibilities that can help us to better serve the people of Paraguay that are affected by HIV/AIDS. Dave and Judy Schmidt
Judy and Dave Schmidt (Rosenort EMC) are involved with a centre that assists families living with HIV/AIDS in Asuncion, Paraguay.
Das EMC Archivkomitee sucht Freiwillige die fähig sind Predigten, die in der alten gotischen Schrift geschrieben sind, ins heutige deutsch und auch ins englische zu übersetzen. Wenn gefragt, soll dieses Material in ganz Kanada verschickt werden. Diese Arbeit ist unentgeldlich aber alle Unkosten für Material und Versand werden gedeckt werden. Wenden sie sich an: Terry Smith, Tel. 204-326-6401 (er selber spricht kein deutsch) oder schreiben sie entweder (deutsch oder englisch) an: Evangelical Mennonite Conference, 440 Main St., Steinbach R5G 1Z5 oder emcterry@mts.net.
After
11
with our churches
Ben Eidse speaks on divine guidance Ben and Helen have seen God work, lead, and do miracles, in numerous ways, mostly with people who come to them. Learning to recognize God’s voice is a process that takes time, he admitted. We know God speaks to us. But Satan tries to deceive us. Also, our own hearts speak to us. Though our hearts are deceitful, the more we seek to become like God, the more reliable our hearts will become. Learning to recognize God’s voice is a To recognize God’s voice, he process that takes time. We know God encouraged us to meditate on His God speaks through His speaks to us. But Satan tries to deceive Word. Word, Eidse said. When we practice meditation with a commitment to us. Also, our own hearts speak to obey, we will hear more and more us. Though our hearts are deceitful, the from God. “Memorizing relevant Scripture more we seek to become like God, the is one of the best approaches to more reliable our hearts will become. this kind of meditation and the subsequent transformation into the and particularly during his retirement image of Jesus, which is God’s ultimate years. Housebound in order to assist his goal for us,” he pointed out. A humorous recollection of memorized wife Helen, who has had a stroke, Eidse prays, “Lord, lead people to me. I am scripture alongside God’s protection here to love them, and to pray for them, occurred years ago while they lived in the Congo. Eidse was crossing a crocodileand to watch You help them.” Lorette, Man.: How does God lead? Will I hear Him when he speaks? Does He do miracles today? On September 16, 2007, Rev. Ben Eidse spoke in our morning service on this topic. As always, it is a treat for us to sit under his teaching. Mr. Eidse began his sermon expressing gratefulness to God for the way he has revealed himself during his life,
infested river on a ferry operated by an inexperienced man. Nearing the shore the operator jarred the ferry by catching his pole in the riverbed, abruptly swinging the ferry around, and throwing Ben, his brief case and motorcycle into the river. Helen and a local Christian brother were waiting for him on shore. As Ben struggled to make it to shore, the brother quipped in French, “The Lord shall guard your going in and your coming out.” Eidse closed his sermon with personal examples of how he and his wife have seen God lead, and do spiritual and physical miracles in many ways in recent years, both in people close to them, and in strangers they have never met before. God’s way is always best, he said. After the service he spent considerable time praying over needs in our congregation. Thank you, Mr. Eidse, for sharing your time, experience, and faith with us this Sunday morning. Jolyn Braun
Honour your heavenly Father! Krista Reimer will be spending a year Blumenort, Man.: What a great way Stephanie Barkman, Krista Reimer, and to honour their heavenly father. Teri Chris Loewen. They are planning to in Camden, New Jersey. She will work Brandt, Caroline Compaign, and Sarah leave for foreign mission service. Both with people in the inner city. She is Thiessen were baptized on Father’s Day, Karen Barkman and Stephanie Barkman joining Mission Year, an urban ministry, are joining Youth with a Mission for on September 7. June 17, 2007. Chris Loewen is leaving to serve We wish to welcome back Pastor two years as leaders of the Discipleship Barry and Norine Plett and their Training School (DTS), starting in with Venture Teams International in September. children Sharayah, Jayden, and Mycah. September 2007. According to a recent They have spent the past Barna poll, only seven year teaching at a Christian percent of Christians in the school in Cambodia. They U.S. live a noticeably different were honoured with a life from their non-Christian grocery shower, so they neighbours. No wonder we didn’t have to worry about are not reaching our world shopping as soon as they got for Christ. If there’s no home. difference between what I’ve We also welcome Arley got and what he’s got, then and Janice Loewen and their why should he want what children Rachel and Rebecca. I’ve got? They are making their home We’ve got God’s love and in Blumenort. Welcome back, forgiveness. Let us live our LaDawn Penner, who was lives in such a way that our serving with God’s Littlest lives reflect that difference. Angels, an orphanage in Haiti. Martin Penner On the other side of the Baptized: Sarah Thiessen, Caroline Compaign, Teri Brandt, and Chris Loewen. Chris coin are Karen Barkman, Loewen is now serving with Venture Teams International.
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THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
You say hello, I say goodbye Abbeydale (Calgary, Alta.): In August our church family took into their home two new IVEPers (MCC’s International Volunteer Exchange Program). Sopheak Ea will be staying with Perry and Michelle Metheral. Sopheak (ignore the h and k for pronunciation) is from Cambodia, and will be working at the Thrift Store and in material resources at MCC. Anousone Phimmachanh (she goes by La) from Laos is staying with Wilmer and Pearl Reimer, and will be working at the Centre for Newcomers. Also in August, a good-bye party was held for our church summer intern, Doug Dyck, who will be returning to Peace River Bible College for his final year. While Doug was at our church, he was involved in our Sunday morning services and with pastoral care during the week. Abbeydale Christian Fellowship’s Alpha
Sopheak Ea, IVEP student
program is up and running for the second year. It has, for La, IVEP student the duration of the program, combined with Kids Club on Alpha at our church Tuesday evenings so that those is “the full meal deal”—a Doug Dyck, pastoral intern interested in attending Alpha delicious evening meal, can also bring their kids to have fun for the kids, and an introduction to some fun in Kids Club. This may be the first Christianity for the adults. Twenty people Alpha program to provide free child care. are attending Alpha this year. Kathy Dueck
Gathering and enriched Swan River, Man.: On the evening of August 19 many of the congregation of the Community Bible Fellowship gathered on the lawn of Don and Darlene Buhler. The weather in the morning had been cause for some concern, but the evening turned out to be beautiful and warm. The informal outdoor service was called A Summer to Remember… testimonials of summer experiences. After a good old-fashioned sing-along, individuals were invited to share. Kevin Penner shared about his week as speaker at Steeprock Bay Bible Camp, Pastor John and Connie Reimer shared about their only son Trevor’s wedding, while others told of their experiences as counselors and campers at the different Bible camps they attended. Natalie Penner shared how her teen camping experience brought her closer
to God. It showed her how much God loves you and how He can forgive you, even with something you thought was unforgivable. Others shared their vacation and/or work experiences. Food is an important part of an event like this and there was plenty for everyone. Later, people gathered around a campfire to continue conversations sparked by the stories told earlier. Don Buhler gave rides in his now famous, little red convertible. We were united once again, richer for the experiences which had separated us at the end of June. Praise God. September 9 signaled the beginning of our new Sunday School year at CBF. Karen Peters and Tracy Burrick, the Christian Education Committee, called the staff and students to the front of the church during the morning worship
service. Pastor John Reimer prayed for the teachers and the students and then we left for our classrooms for our first lesson. After Sunday School and the service were over, we gathered in the gym for pork on a bun, salads, and dessert. We had a great time of fellowship as we enjoyed the lunch. It was, indeed, a great start to another year of teaching children about God’s love and faithfulness. September 16 after the service and lunch saw many of the church family take the annual trek to Pikes Peak, northwest of Swan River. As usual it was a great time of reminiscing and memory building. It was also a good time for some new families to see one of the valley’s spectacular views and for us older ones to get to know new friends. It, too, was a beautiful autumn day. Betty Warkentin
Sunday School began on September 9. Pikes Peak hike
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
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Reaching out, saying farewell, and welcoming new Canadians shared their best wishes, love and Braeside (Winnipeg, Man.): affection. Braeside’s prayers will Although church activities often follow the Heppners. slow down in summer, there are Early September marked an still many service opportunities. important milestone for one In June Braeside participated of our Hispanic families. After in Love Winnipeg, a hands-on a long wait the Rivas family, activity where churches go out together with nearly 80 other on the streets to practice what individuals, were welcomed as they preach. Three events were citizens of Canada. Braeside organized at Braeside: potted has been blessed with many flower deliveries (together with Spanish-speaking people and we a “Have a nice day; God loves rejoice whenever they become you!”) to about 200 surprised Canadians, a process that can be homeowners, a free car wash and interminably slow and sometimes, breakfast and covering graffiti with unexpected delays and and clean-up. Many people refusals, heartbreaking. cannot quite grasp the concept Al Dueck that something can be “free” and In June we celebrated baptism and membership transfers: Sandra either want to pay or demand to Hernandez (t), Tamara Kliever, Gloria Knelsen (t), Donavon Giesbrecht (t), Justin Fast and Jeff Mathew with Pastor Carl. know the strings attached. Positive results of this The report after their return was annual event are that the community is aware that churches do have a love given with enthusiasm. Each individual for the community and, perhaps just as had a different experience but all were important, it involves all ages in a group agreed on one thing: They all wanted to activity that is not confrontational and return to Manitoba’s North again! It was with sadness and emotion that brings surprise and joy to both the donor we bade farewell to Carl, Kathy, Joel, and the recipient. Vacation Bible School, held in early Kezia and Asha Heppner. After nearly ten July, attracted an average of 40 kids years of service at Braeside, first as youth daily to the western-themed Avalanche pastor and then as lead pastor, Heppners Ranch. Many of our youth were involved have moved to Fresno, California, where in supervising games, crafts, drama and Carl will complete the requirement for a Master’s degree (Arts). In his Last Words teaching. In early July a dozen of our youth message Carl spoke of the joy of pastoral and leaders headed north to Thompson leadership, reminding Braeside to be a and Midway Bible Camp where the team light in the community. At a luncheon Breakfast is served! Bert Wiens and Al Fast take a following the service many congregants assisted in the daily activities. break as pancakes sizzle on the griddle during a Love Winnipeg activity.
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 204-326-6089. Teams contact Colin Loewen, caloewen@ mts.net, 204-346-1380 (home), 204-371-9048 (work).
The Rivas family poses with the citizenship judge and an RCMP officer, one of Canada’s best known symbols, after being welcomed as Canadian citizens: Cristopher, Carmen, Sergio, Ely and Sergio (Jr).
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THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
Ron Penner enters MWC talks with Catholic Church Ron Penner, our conference’s Mennonite World Conference representative, is among Mennonites from 10 countries travelling to Rome for continuing consultations on Mennonite-Catholic dialogue and peace. Ron Penner informed the EMC General Board of his intention to go, said vice moderator John Reimer. His involvement is not seen as an official EMC visit, he did not ask for financial support, and it is at his personal expense, according to Tim Dyck, General Secretary. Penner has been the EMC’s representative to MWC since 2004, prior to when he began serving as conference moderator. He is a member of Braeside EMC in Winnipeg, an ordained minister, and a holder of four earned degrees (two at a master’s level from AMBS). Ron is among our conference’s ablest defenders of Anabaptism, according to Terry Smith, BCM executive secretary. The first event is a church-to-church visit (October 18–23), hosted by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and including a brief visit with Pope Benedict (scheduled for October 19). The visit, by invitation of the Pontifical Council, follows up an international dialogue from 1998–2003 and produced a 48-page report, Called Together to Be Peacemakers. The visit, approved by MWC’s General Council in March 2006, has a threefold purpose: Report on and discuss the member church and General Council responses to the report, raise concerns about the Catholic Church arising in the local or national setting of member churches, and to know one another better.
“The major focus of the visit will be on learning to know one another as churches rather than engaging in systematic theological dialogue,” says Larry Miller, MWC General Secretary. The delegation was selected to represent both the geographic and theological breadth of MWC. Representatives are from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and North America. MWC member churches that accepted MWC’s invitation to participate will be represented by Lenemarie FunckSpäth, German Mennonite churches; Ron Penner, Evangelical Mennonite Conference, Canada; and Iris de LeonHartshorn, Mennonite Church USA. Also participating will be MWC staff members Helmut Harder of Canada (dialogue cochair) and General Secretary Larry Miller of France. The visit will be followed by an October 23–25 consultation to fashion a Catholic/Mennonite perspective on a proposed International Ecumenical Peace Convocation. Slated for 2011, the convocation will be the culmination of the World Council of Churches’ Decade to Overcome Violence (2001–2010). On December 2, 2005, members of the EMC ministerial heard a first-hand presentation by Dr. Helmut Harder on the five-year dialogue and responded to the commission’s report (see January 11, 2006, www.emconf.ca/Messenger). At that time no ministerial decisions resulted from the discussion, and the ministerial did not give any formal instructions to Dr. Harder regarding Mennonite participation in it. MWC/The Messenger
Vietnam to recognize Mennonite Church Vietnam’s national Religious Affairs Committee recently presented a Certificate for Religious Activities to the Vietnam Mennonite Church. The document recognizes the church’s purpose: “Worship the triune God and love all people according to the Word of the Lord in the Holy Bible, live the Gospel, serve God, serve the country and the people.” The certificate allows the Vietnam Mennonite Church to function throughout the country and to organize an official national conference within the coming year. Should this process proceed and a
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
national conference be held, a constitution and statement of faith adopted and officers elected, the church might be granted legal status permitting it to purchase property, organize an official training school, and publish materials. The much larger Evangelical Church of Vietnam was granted official legal status by the prime minister in 2001. This new recognition does not cover all the Mennonite churches in Vietnam, only about 80 congregations with 5,000 members. MWC
Peace Sunday resources In early November many Canadian Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches observe Peace Sunday, to reflect upon Jesus’ call for his disciples to be people of peace. Worship resources prepared by MCC invite congregations to remember that “only peace leads to peace,” said Esther Epp-Tiessen, coordinator of MCC Canada’s peace ministries.
“All people are children of God, even our enemies,” she said, noting that Jesus Christ was born into a world of violence and hatred, and yet brought a message of peace and love. The theme for this year’s resources is Peace by Memory, a reminder “to hear once again Jesus’ call to love our enemies, to resist evil nonviolently, and to live as people of peace.” Worship resources include prayers, scripture texts, and sermon nuggets. There are also meal-time activities for families and small groups, and youth group activities. These resources are available on-line at http://mcc.org/ peacesunday/ and at MCC offices. MCC
PRAYER WALK for church plant in Redcliff, Alberta October 27, 2007, 9:30 a.m. Meet at Crestwood MB Church 2348 Dunmore Rd. SE Medicine Hat, Alta. Contact Ward Parkinson at emcward@mts.net 15
stewardship today Edwin Friesen
Succession
S
uccession may be a wonderful word to the young, upwardly mobile entrepreneur. It speaks of progression, advancement, being included, (finally) being in the driver’s seat. It may look quite different and threatening if you are on the “moving on” part of succession. There will be the loss of control, a sense of no longer being in the inner circle of decision making or even being out of the loop altogether. You may feel slighted as you watch changes being implemented. If you pass on the family farm or business, your successors will do things differently—sometimes for the better and sometimes not. There may be new crop rotations, different equipment, new partnerships, and more. Your lifetime web of friends and business associates will, slowly but surely, be replaced with new ones as your successors put their stamp on the enterprise. Regardless of how much life experience and wisdom we may gather in our lifetime, eventually we will move on and others will take our place. The author of Ecclesiastes captures the wistful sadness of this in 2:21: “For though I do my work with wisdom, knowledge, and skill, I must leave everything I own to people who haven’t worked to earn it.” This sobering thought was reinforced recently when hearing a gifted minister speak. He was turning 65 and planning to reduce his public ministry engagements. I thought, “What a shame!” All of this knowledge, wisdom, and skill honed on the anvil of a long life of public ministry—was there no way to transfer this to the next generation? Must each new generation start all over again? Why does the wisdom of each generation have to end in the grave? Or does it? Jesus faced a similar situation. How would the fledgling New Testament church carry on without him? What if they chose to do things differently than he intended? What if they made mistakes—big ones? For three years he poured his life into his disciples, and then he sent them forth, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to carry on his work. And the Jesus movement keeps going and growing even as generations come
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and go. What a movement! What a remarkable story of never ending succession. Though we can’t extend our life, we can extend our influence beyond our grave. Consider these suggestions: Intentionally mentor the people around you as you go through life, including family, work and leisure associates. Let them see how you handle life: A difficult boss, a promotion, a tense home situation, a major disappointment, criticism, and your money practices. Tell (and write down) your life stories to the next generation. Include stories where God seemed distant and unresponsive as well as stories where God came through for you. Let the stories speak for themselves—go easy on the application. Empower the people around you by offering your affirmation. All of us walk a little taller and are capable of a little more when affirmed. The effect of affirmation will linger long after you and I are gone. I am well aware that the meter on my life is running. Before long, I too will pass on the baton to those who follow. My goal is to leave behind something that is worth more and will last longer than money. I’m sure yours is too. T Be intentional about it. M
Though we can’t extend our life, we can extend our influence beyond our grave.
For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office: Abbotsford – Ed Wedel, 1-888-212-8608; Calgary – Gary Sawatzky, 1-877-717-0708; Niagara – Darren Pries-Klassen, 1-888-212-8731; Kitchener – Mike Strathdee, Sherri Grosz, 1-888-212-7759; Winnipeg – Edwin Friesen, 1-800-772-3257.
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
pictures of God
Joanna Plett
Towards a Stronger Weakness
M
y extensive experience in legalism has taught me that dependency is a sign of weakness and that weakness is to be avoided at all costs. Masquerading as humility, my pride tells me the Christian ideal is to do it on my own and present my righteous deeds, conquered sins, and successful missions to God as a sacrifice to him. The Gospel, however, reminds me that I can’t live the Christian life on my own, so I allow God to help me in the interim period until I can get my act together. But as God chisels the pride out of my independence, I am discovering that my independence often masks my deepest fears, that acknowledgement of my weakness is my greatest strength, and that full dependency on God
The truth is that my independence serves as both a survival tool and a defence mechanism. As long as I depend only on myself, no one, including God, can hurt me or let me down.
is a greater sacrifice than my imperfect perfection. The truth is that my independence serves as both a survival tool and a defence mechanism. It is simultaneously the pride of self-sufficiency and the fear of rejection. As long as I depend only on myself, no one, including God, can hurt me or let me down. So when John says that “there is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18), I long for the perfect love, but fear that it is too good to be true. For those of us who have experienced the imperfections of human love, it can be very hard to entrust ourselves to anyone’s love, even God’s. When Jesus told his followers not to worry (Matthew 6), it wasn’t because they were overwrought with frivolous concerns. He told them not to worry about the most basic life needs—food, drink, clothing—because “[their] Heavenly Father knows that [they] need them” (Matthew 6:32). The phrase “Your Heavenly Father” in this verse sums up the basis of our faith in God’s perfect love. “Your” states that we already belong to God, outside of our own righteousness and sacrifices. “Heavenly” reveals the faithfulness of God that guarantees a perfect love and the power of God that overcomes our weakness. “Father” reveals the basis of our trust in God. When he adopted us as his children, he took on the role and responsibility of a perfect Father, one to whom we can completely entrust ourselves to. As I’ve grown up in my faith in the last few years, I have discovered over and over that the ideal of Christianity is not independence, but greater dependence on God. In righteousness, God wants me to come to him in the midst of my sin and ask for his help, rather than fighting my own battles and bringing him the finished product. In ministry, God invites us to join his work, for we can bring nothing to him that he himself has not done through us. In relationship, God longs not for the workbased dependence of a servant, but the love-based dependence of a child. The acknowledgement of our need and of his provision is the sacrifice that brings him T the greatest glory in our lives, ministry, and faith. M
In relationship, God longs not for the work-based dependence of a servant, but the love-based dependence of a child. THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
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Siberian church marks 100 years A birch forest in Siberia was an appropriate setting for the 100-year anniversary of the Omsk Brotherhood, July 29-30. For 1,500 people, it reminded them of past persecution when large gatherings were held in secret. The celebration, near the village of Miroljubowka (or Alexanderkrone), honoured God’s faithfulness and remembered the brutal oppression of the Communist regime. Attention was given to the spiritual awakening of the 1950s that gave rise to the Evangelical‑Christian‑Baptist Church, a fusion of earlier Evangelical Christians, Baptists, and Mennonites. The Sunday program went all day and continued Monday evening. There was preaching, testimonies, historical lectures, choral music and ensembles, and poetry. Five sermons focused on the nature, suffering, and mission of Christ’s church. Four historical lectures related the devastating times of oppression, spiritual renewal, reorganization, and the so‑called
time of freedom. Visitors from Germany, Canada, USA, and Paraguay conveyed greetings via translation. The Omsk Brotherhood is a conference of 1,350 members in more than 32 local churches. Its vitality belies its history of bloody persecution, kidnappings, and shootings in the 1930s. During World War Two men and women were forced into the “work army.” Brutal persecution continued under Stalin, with many preachers condemned to 25 years in prison. When Stalin died, most believing prisoners were set free. Mikhail Gorbachov’s perestroika made possible an emigration to Germany which began in 1988, when the conference had 2,306 members. Some 3,000 members emigrated. By 2006 the conference had 1,350 members. Missionary efforts brought changes, including the move from German to Russian language
Omsk festival choir and congregation
services and more effective missionary work. Most church buildings are relatively new and well maintained, with several services a week. Leaders and churches fear worldly influence and are cautious toward government and the country. They are reluctant to get excited about religious freedom. In their view, the possibility of renewed persecution cannot be excluded. MWC
Heard of Global Youth Summit and AMIGOS? Many EMCers have heard of Mennonite World Conference, the organization linking Anabaptist churches around the world. MWC holds a General Assembly every six years; in 2009, it is on July 13-19 in Asuncion, Paraguay. The Global Youth Summit (July 10-12, 2009) is an international youth gathering held in conjunction with the General Assembly. The five-member committee overseeing the summit’s planning is called AMIGOS (Spanish for friends), and its theme for 2009 is SERVICE: Live the Difference. “We want young Mennonites and Anabaptists to understand that service is a lifestyle, a lifetime calling as followers of Christ, and something to pursue beyond our comfort zone,” says an AMIGOS member. “We want
“We want young Mennonites and Anabaptists to understand that service is a lifestyle, a lifetime calling as followers of Christ.” 18
to invite young people to a world of service that is so much more exciting than just donating spare change, isolated projects, service trips, or evangelism without addressing social issues. We hope biblical analysis, cross-cultural interaction and sharing of each other’s experience in ministry will deepen our understanding of service.” The hope is that “850 young people from Paraguay, Latin America and
throughout the world will gather here in 2009 as delegates, participants and volunteers.” This is “a great way to introduce Paraguay to the world as well as equipping Paraguayan youth with international exposure.” AMIGOS hope to raise $150,000 to sponsor young people around the world to come to the Global Youth Summit. It raised $79,000 by August, and is “grateful for the support” from young people, adults, individuals, and institutions. The first Global Youth Summit was conducted in Zimbabwe in 2003, with 28 delegates from 23 countries. Many GYS alumni are strong church and social leaders with interest in youth issues. They communicate these ideas so that the church can address them and welcome more youth back to Christ and the church. The attendees and a network of young Anabaptists connect through e-mail, meetings, and global exchange programs. See AMIGOS is preparing for the Global Youth Summit (GYS), July 10–12, 2009. El comite de Amigos está en preparacion para el Cumbre Mundial de la Juventud amigos@mwc-cmm.org. MWC/Meetinghouse/EMC (CMJ), 10-12 de julio, 2009. AMIGOS committee members: Barbara Kaercher (Germany), Khohlwani Moyo (Zimbabwe), Elina Ciptadi (Singapore), Amandus Reimer (Paraguay), and Sarah Thompson (USA).
THE MESSENGER October 17, 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 306-547-3383 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, self-motivated 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. 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
THE MESSENGER October 17, 2007
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.
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. MCC Ontario seeks an executive director. It has a staff of 65, many volunteers, and a budget of about $9M. The director leads the team in its mission. It is a full-time position with a three-year renewable term. Beginning date is negotiable. The board seeks an individual committed to a personal Christian faith, active church membership and nonviolent peacemaking, who holds a related university degree, and five or more years in an organizational leadership position. The director guides the development of MCCO program plans; works collaboratively with board, staff, colleagues and the constituent church leaders; is effective in public communication; and leads MCCO in fund development. A job description is available. Applications are accepted until November 23, 2007. Send letter, resume and three references to Search Committee of the Board, 50 Kent St., Kitchener, ON N2G 3R1; ontarioedsearch@gmail. com. What team do you like to play on? EMC Missions desire to send a team of church planters to Mexico. Following two semesters of Spanish language study, the team will be placed in one of the cities in Chihuahua State working alongside national church leaders and missionaries. For information contact Ken Zacharias at 204-326-6401 or emcken@mts.net.
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. Camp Assiniboia¸ Headingley, Man., requires a manager, beginning in April 2008. Key attributes being sought include energy, effective communication, operational know-how and hospitality mindset. Direct inquiries to Director of Camping Ministries, Mennonite Church Manitoba, 200-600 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
Tickets Available At: Mennonite Heritage Village 866-280-8741 or 204-326-9661 On-Line at www.KwikTix.ca Adults $20, Students $10 Rush Seating: Doors Open at 6:30
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KIDS’
corner Loreena Thiessen
What is Real?
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hat do you do when you see someone stumble and trip and fall on his knees or on his back? A student has forgotten a library book that is due today, or his lunch and it’s lunchtime and he’s hungry? Someone gives an answer that is incorrect or off topic? Do you laugh at him? Do you see other students making fun of him? What do you do? When you look at your classmates or at people on the street, do you see someone tall, short, pretty; someone who dresses in the right colors and styles, someone who always has the right answer and sounds smart? Do you see a neighbor leaving for work in his shiny car dressed in a business suit? Or is it an old person who walks with a cane, trembles, and can’t always remember where they are? Or someone on the street wearing dirty clothes who shuffles and mutters to himself? Is this who they are—a smart person, an old forgetful person, a dirty muttering person? Or are they more than what you see? Are they also people who laugh and cry and remember times that were important?
One day at school Ana heard her friends making fun of people with drinking problems. This upset her. That evening she asked her father if they could make a video to show that these are real people. In The Velveteen Rabbit, Rabbit asks Horse, “What is real?” Horse answers that you become real when someone loves you. He says that the real you is not what is seen, it is what happens to you inside as you play and work and are loved by someone. The real you is the part of you that feels and thinks. Each person has a story. Your story is your life, and how you feel and think about your experiences. Ana is nine years old. One day at school Ana heard her friends making fun of people with drinking problems. This upset her. That evening she asked her father if they could make a video together to show that these are real people. PAGE 20
Ana and her father went to a shelter where people were recovering from their drinking. Ana asked each person this question: “Why did you start drinking?” Each one told her his story. Ana made the film to show that each person is a real person with a real story no matter how they appear. For her film Ana won a science fair medal. Now her film is being shown to students at school. When Samuel helped choose David as the next King God said to Samuel, “Do not choose the next King by his appearance…I look at his heart” (1 Samuel 16:7, my paraphrase). T David’s heart counted more than how he looked. M
Make a Circle of Friends Need: A sheet of computer paper or construction paper Pencil Scissors Crayons or felt pens Do: Fold short side of paper over to meet long side to form a triangle Cut off extra strip Fold over twice to create a smaller triangle Hold the folded triangle with open side toward you and folded sides to the right and left Draw a person shape on the triangle feet at the bottom, head on top, arms and hands out to the folded sides Cut out the shoulders, head, and legs Do not cut around the hands. Carefully unfold Decorate the faces and clothes with crayons and felts The circle of friends will be attached at the hands. They should form a circle.
THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914