Issuu

Messenger The

EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE VOLUME 46 NUMBER 1 JANUARY 9, 2008

Educational highlights Inter-Mennonite Chaplaincy p. 4 Steinbach Bible College p. 5

The

Messenger

Bringing in a New Year

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 Unpublished material is not returned except by request.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. 3 – February 6 (copy due January 25)

editorials ohn Wesley, Anglican minister and a leader within what developed into Methodism, preferred to bring in the New Year with fellow believers, spiritual reflection, and prayer. What is your practice? While reflecting upon the past year, we can be mindful of the Lord’s help; facing a New Year, we can admit our dependence upon Christ and his Body (Hebrews 10:25). Through prayer we confess our faith in “the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:2). It is a confidence that is more than individual; it is a shared assurance. Because of that shared conviction,

The EMC isn’t the national office; the national office isn’t the Conference. The Conference is the 60 churches (about 7,800 members and adherents) from British Columbia to Ontario who are united by choice toward common goals.

the EMC exists. The EMC isn’t the national office; the national office isn’t the Conference. The Conference is the 60 churches (about 7,800 members and adherents) from British Columbia to Ontario who are united by choice toward common goals. Those of us who work in the EMC’s national office are your support staff, and it is our privilege to serve you in this way. The Messenger is one joint effort of our conference. Within these pages members, in various ways, raise and discuss many matters. The magazine reflects the input of church reporters, missionaries, columnists, letter writers, editors, various boards, and more. It is a team effort that goes far beyond the work of two staff members who serve it on a part-time basis as editors. Together, we listen, learn, and discern. And together we enter 2008 by grace. Because of Christ we have a rich hope. May T Christ’s blessings be upon you in 2008! M Terry M. Smith

Courage remembered

n October 27, 1523, the local council in Zurich met to hear public debate by Protestant Reformer Ulrich Zwingli, who opposed the celebration of the Mass and the use of images in worship. Conrad Grebel, a follower of Zwingli, stood to ask what priests should be instructed about the Mass. Zwingli replied, “My Lords [the Zurich City Council] will decide how to proceed henceforth with the Mass.” Simon Stumpf, a priest who also followed Zwingli, objected by saying, “Master Ulrich, you have no authority to place the decision in the hands of My Lords, for the decision is already made; the Spirit of God decides. If then My Lords should adopt and decide anything against God’s own decision, I shall ask Christ for His Spirit, and shall teach and act against it.” There was more to the discussion, but even this is revealing: Zwingli was prepared

to move with the Council on changes, while Stumpf thought that changes should happen regardless of what the Council thought. During the next two years trust broke down between Zwingli and various followers who viewed him as compromising both biblical truth and the speed of reform. The practice of infant baptism became disputed. On January 18, 1525, those who opposed it were told by Zurich council that they either had to consent to the baptism of their children or be expelled from the area. Three days later, on January 21, 1525, people gathered in the home of Felix Manz. Several of them were then baptised upon their confession of faith. This January, as we near the anniversary of their actions, T we remain indebted to them. M Terry M. Smith

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

letters

coming events

Serious theological concerns The July 30, 2007, MACLEAN’S issue, quotes Pope Benedict XVI’s July 10 speech in which he labels individuals of nonCatholic Christian of faiths as “wounded;” adding, “it is difficult to see how the title of ‘church’ could possibly be attributed to [Protestant churches]…the Catholic Church is the ‘one true Church of Christ.’” In this context, both Ron Penner’s recent dialogue with the Pope [Dec. 1, 2007] and Terry Tiessen’s [Dec. 15, 2007] letter in The Messenger raise serious theological concerns. Obviously, RC theology has not changed fundamentally since the Reformation; we evangelicals are still considered heretics like our forefathers who were burned at the stake. Do our church leaders think they can influence the Catholic Church to change its theology, or is this AnabaptistCatholic Dialogue leading us to theological compromises with Rome? At the 2005 EMC Anabaptist-Catholic Dialogue meeting we were advised that our churches also have sacraments like the Catholic Church, even though we don’t call them sacraments. One example likened our practice of child dedication to the Catholic sacrament of infant baptism. Since when has child dedication been a means of salvation like Catholic infant baptism? This was left unanswered. Theology professor Tiessen is obviously familiar with Pope Benedict’s claim that only Rome is the true Church of Christ. Yet this is not his concern; his concern is that some Anabaptists claim “many Roman Catholics are not Christians.” Is he implying that every person in the Catholic Church is a born-again believer? Do evangelicals claim that all who belong to evangelical churches are Christians, as he seems to imply? I have never encountered such a “confession” from evangelicals. Tiessen says, “It is not uncommon for evangelicals to equate ‘Christian’ and ‘saved.’ This is a peculiar practice that I find hard to justify.” Is he implying that “Christian” and “saved” is not synonymous when Scripture equates “Christian” and “saved” in numerous passages? Along this same line he states: “…by what definition of ‘Christian,’ I wonder, can we possibly deny that members of the Roman Catholic or Orthodox churches are ‘Christians’”? Tiessen must know that a “Christian” is defined by his personal relationship with Christ not by his religion. If members of the Roman Catholic or Orthodox churches are born-again they’re Christians; this is the only biblical definition of “Christian.” Should we “…avoid unnecessary offence

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

in the way we speak of others who profess faith in the same Lord as we do, although they differ from us on some points of theology?” Certainly, we should avoid unnecessary offence; however, according to Roman 9:3 the gospel of Christ is an offence to those who deny the truth. The real issue is the nature of these theological points; there are fundamental doctrines we dare not compromise. We should relate to people of other religions in an inoffensive manner of behaviour, but without compromising our theology. Tiessen’s arguments leave us to conclude that he has little difficulty with Pope Benedict’s anti-evangelical

January 25–27 Break Forth Canada 2008 Shaw Conference Centre Edmonton, Alta. www.breakforthcanada.com February 6 MEDA Winnipeg Chapter Further to the Complex Life Speaker: Dr. Paul Doerksen Bergmann’s on Lombard Winnipeg, Man. Noon, $20 204-487-2328, ext. 221 www.meda.org

pronouncements in his July 10 speech. Coming from an evangelical seminary professor, I find this rather troubling. Henry Hiebert Steinbach, Man.

Books by EMCers Betty Barkman, Laina 260 pp., soft cover $13

Erna Dueck, Living With a Killer: Survivor of three primary cancers tells her story 157 pp., soft cover, $22.95

L. Marie Enns, Preacher’s Kids on the Homestead 176 pp., $13

Melanie Frayle, Food for Fun and Fellowship 176 pp., $13

Aganetha Janz, Gretchen: Darkness to Dawn 148 pp., soft cover, $15.95

Frank P. Kroeker, My Dad, Mr. Peter T. Kroeker, as I remember him 168 pp., soft cover $7.50

Doreen Reimer Peters, One Who Dared: Life Story of Ben D. Reimer, 1909–1994 307 pp., soft cover $5 Arden Thiessen, D.Min., Good News for a Broken World—Reflections on the Message of Romans 132 pp., soft cover $8 The Church that Christ Builds—Reflections on the Letter to the Ephesians 144 pp., soft cover, $8 The Biblical Case for Equality—An Appeal for Gender Justness in the Church 164 pp., soft cover, $12 2 Springwood Bay Steinbach, MB R5G 2E8 204-326-1662 adenths@hotmail.com Don Thiessen, Ph.D., Selah: A Guide to Music in the Bible 165 pp., soft cover $10 Available from author or EM Conference national office. Mailing extra. 204-326-6401 emcmessenger@mts.net

U. of M. Mennonite Chaplaincy

A refuge in a university storm

first found out about the Menno Office when I stumbled upon it while looking for another student group office. When I saw Mennonite Chaplain’s Office on the office window, I knew I could trust the person inside. Boy, was I wrong. Just kidding! Mark was sitting in the office and I asked if he could help me find the place. We went for a walk, pleasantly chatting, and he led me right to the door. In the end, however, I chose the Menno Office as my refuge in the university storm of seemingly endless papers, presentations, exams, and profs who were great, but really challenged my faith with their subtle and not-so-subtle ideas about Christianity and the meaning of life. That’s where the Menno Office came in handy: A safe place for open discussion on some of the confusing messages in this world of higher education…and being from different Mennonite denominations, we’ve broken down some walls and alleviated some of the stereotypes we have of each other. I’ve really benefited from the Menno Talks every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Mark encourages students to pick their own topic ideas dealing with current issues. Sometimes it’s hard to get back to class when we’re so deep in conversation! The Menno Office also allows us to encourage each other in our faith,

Stephanie Kroeker help each other with homework, swap textbooks, and advise about which courses and profs to avoid. I appreciate Mark as he’s always there to offer a listening ear. He makes the office a welcoming, relaxing place when studies can be quite demanding. Mark is always willing to let us vent about anything and everything and I’ve benefited from this first-hand. God has been so good to me in leading me to cross paths with Mark and the fellow students at the Menno Office. What seemed like a meeting by accident was really a great blessing that has helped sustain me and keep my sanity during my university T years. M Stephanie Kroeker (Rosenort EMC) is a University of Manitoba student in her fourth and final year in the Faculty of Human Ecology, in the program of Family Social Sciences, focusing in Child and Adolescent Development, and Aging. Her thoughts were presented at the InterMennonite Chaplaincy Association Annual Meeting on November 8, 2007. Mark von Kampen is the parttime Mennonite chaplain at the U. of M., a ministry supported in part by the EMC.

The Menno Office came in handy as a safe place for open discussion on some of the confusing messages in this world of higher education.

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

Steinbach Bible College

Shaping experiences: Community and opportunity

Rob Reimer, president

any different experiences have significantly shaped my life. I am traveling this road with an amazing and supportive family. My wife Myrna and our teenaged children Kara, Shanna, and Joel have graciously walked with me and taught me much. I thank God for giving me this special gift of family. Two experiences stand out, and I would like to reflect on how they shape my thoughts and philosophy about ministry. When I talk about full-time Christian ministry I am referring to being paid for ministry. God calls all of us to live a life of ministry. Some do that as stay-at-home moms, others as business men and women, and some by working in factories. Our life is to be one of service to Jesus whether paid or not. Being paid for ministry doesnâ€™t make a person more important or special in Godâ€™s eyes than someone who volunteers. The first experience was the privilege of working at Winkler Bible Camp. I began by volunteering three summers as a camp counselor. Years later, I served as program director and then as the executive director. Directing the camp gave me my first taste of full-time ministry, and I loved it. I learned to do long range and strategic planning, community relations, administration and staff management. I learned about donor development and preached my first sermons. God impressed upon me the desire to pursue a life of service to him. Men like Ted Goossen and Rick Schellenberg affirmed my gifts of leadership and encouraged their development. I was exposed to many administrative aspects of full-time ministry and was given opportunity to develop those skills. I thank God for Winkler Bible Camp and its profound influence on my life. A second key experience was the time our family spent at the Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary in Fresno, California. Without question, these were the best three years of our life. Three elements made this experience special. First, in going to California, I had my first real taste of a multi-cultural setting. For the first time, I was the visible minority, and this helped me view people differently. In a small way, I began to understand some difficulties faced daily by immigrants and those who are considered minorities. It was an eye-opening experience leading to involvement in cultural ministries: To befriend a number of Colombian families and a Korean family and to work with the Mennonite Brethren Southern District Conference in planting new immigrant churches. The second element was the courses that I took. I entered

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

God impressed upon me the desire to pursue a life of service to him. I was exposed to many administrative aspects of full-time ministry and was given opportunity to develop those skills. seminary like an eager, dry sponge. While the course content was excellent, I remember even more the example of the professors and the impression they left on me. These men and women deeply loved Jesus and had a burning passion to equip leaders. They instilled in me a desire to also train and equip servant leaders. However, the most satisfying aspect of seminary was the emphasis on community. Much of this learning experience happens in community. We went to classes together and studied together. There were many opportunities to eat, fellowship, and 5

In community, I play together. We laughed and opportunity to give our students cried together. “taste and see” experiences to serve discovered that I am During these three years, and be exposed to a life of ministry. not alone. I have other I was encouraged to seek out Mission X is a big component of this. accountability partners. This A second insight was the influence brothers and sisters who exercise would have a lasting that Christian leaders have in are walking this same impact. While pastoring in affirming gifts and challenging young Kansas, I sought out two men adults to a life of ministry. I doubt journey. They are willing to hold me accountable in my that I would have gone into camping personal and professional life. ministry had Christian leaders not to support and encourage They shared with openness invited me to go. I see the impact that me, just as I desire to and honesty. When we moved occurred in my life because men and to Calgary, I met regularly with women of God affirmed my gifts of encourage and support a spiritual director who kept leadership and my growing desire to them. me accountable and provided be an active witness for Jesus. It had a spiritual input. profound effect in the development of These experiences have my desire to explore a life of full-time been formative not only in my personal ministry. SBC has this same opportunity to affirm the gifts of our life, but in shaping my philosophy students and to be active in challenging them to a life of service. of ministry. I bring these insights to As I reflect on MBBS, I find it was a time of discovery about Steinbach Bible College, and hope to pursuing a life of ministry. I discovered the importance of incorporate these principles as we train taking time to formulate and develop my own theology. MBBS servant leaders for church ministries. provided me with a safe environment to ask the hard questions. My experience at Winkler Bible My professors could challenge my beliefs with some questions Camp impressed upon me two of their own. Their questions forced me to study God’s Word valuable insights. First, being and think about theology, instead of blindly accepting what exposed to ministry at 16 allowed I have always believed. My professors skillfully guided me in me to experience the joys of serving rediscovering and affirming my evangelical Anabaptist roots others. I had no intentions of working and beliefs. As a college, we also have opportunity to help our at camp. Only when director Ted students formulate their theology and think about what it means Goossen invited me, and my parents to be evangelical Anabaptists. encouraged me to serve, did ministry My MBBS experience equipped me with the tools I needed for become an option. effective ministry. I learned to exegete scripture for teaching, The insight I gained is that exposing preaching, and for my personal study. I studied principles in young adults to ministry opportunities leadership, visioning, and long range planning. I was taught the is an effective tool to help them basics in counseling, how to better manage my time, and other consider a life of service. The Psalmist administrative tasks. writes, “Taste and see that the Lord However, it was community and fellowshipping with a body is good.” As a college, we have an of believers that left the most lasting impression on my life. This immersion in community includes the informal discussions with my professors and others about a wide variety of subjects. I discovered how valuable it is to sit and dialogue about I see the impact that occurred theology and how that relates to ministry and life. I discovered in my life because men and that community is not merely fellowshipping with my fellow Anabaptists; it also includes my brothers and sisters from around women of God affirmed the world who are of different nationalities and denominations. And in community, I discovered that I am not alone. I have my gifts of leadership and other brothers and sisters who are walking this same journey. my growing desire to be an They are willing to support and encourage me, just as I desire to encourage and support them. SBC is intentional about fostering active witness for Jesus. It a healthy environment that promotes community life. Our had a profound effect in the professors take an active role in mentoring students and working with them to help them succeed. development of my desire I invite you to pray for us as a college as we seek to train T servant leaders for church ministries. M to explore a life of full-time ministry. 6

Rob Reimer is president of Steinbach Bible College, our EMC-related institution. THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

with our missionaries Oaxaca, southern Mexico

Using the radio to share a rich language

CALLING ALL WOMEN: Lace up your skates, it’s hockey time!

You are invited to play in the 7th annual women’s EMCup February 15–16, 2008 St. Pierre Arena, in St. Pierre, Man. Organize the women from your church and form a team. Organized rec teams not eligible for this tournament. Volunteers are needed, please call us! *Donations to the silent auction are gratefully accepted. (Proceeds to Ramona Reimer’s ongoing cancer treatment). Registration deadline January 26, 2008. Register your team by calling or emailing Marlene - 204-364-2346, marlene@rbmovers.net Barry - 204-364-3075 Laura - 204-475-1419, clthie@mts.net

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

From the beginning, one of the things I noticed about the Zapotecs is that they enjoy listening to music and sharing that joy with others. When it’s time to pat tortillas early in the morning, women turn on their radios, often loudly enough for the neighbours to hear. Music is played over the public address system in the village, especially in the morning after announcements of various kinds have been made. No need for a clock radio to wake you up here. I remember one Mother’s Day in the village many years ago. Joan and I were abruptly awakened when someone in the town hall began playing songs dedicated to the mothers, sisters, aunts, and sweethearts of various ones. The music filled our tiny bedroom. The whole thing seemed so absurd that we did the only thing we could do, we began to laugh. It was 3 a.m. One beautiful sunny day not so long ago I was walking home after a reading session with Pablo. As I heard the sound of the local radio station coming from homes all over the village, it was a bit like hearing the broadcast in stereo. I remember thinking: Wouldn’t it be neat if we could broadcast something in Zapotec. That thought, given to me by God, I believe, has become a reality. Odilón and I didn’t know exactly how to go about getting permission to put something on the air, but he thought it would be good to read one of the many stories we have published in Zapotec and then talk about some aspect of the grammar and relate it to the story. So that’s what he did. He recorded a couple of these talks and then, with the recording and a translation of it in Spanish in hand, he took the bus an hour farther up into the mountains to the radio station. It took many phone calls and several more trips to the station, but now his

little talks are being broadcast in the language area. I was curious to find out how the people in the village would react to hearing something in their language on the radio. Although they usually don’t hesitate to let you know if they don’t like something, so far I’ve not heard one negative comment. Many have told me that they have heard Odilón speak, that he told them that their language is good and that they should not be ashamed to use it.

Many have told me that they have heard Odilón speak, that he told them that their language is good and that they should not be ashamed to use it. Would you pray that God would use these radio broadcasts to extend his kingdom among the Zapotecs? Odilón would eventually like to read Zapotec Scripture on the air. The radio station is a secular one and we need wisdom to know how to go about getting permission for that. Grace Thiessen

Grace Thiessen (Steinbach EMC) is involved in literacy and Bible translation in southern Mexico.

Mozambique

TEAM’s history in Mozambique In Eastern Africa, between Tanzania and South Africa, with 2,470 km of coastline alongside the Indian Ocean, lies Mozambique. Evangelical missions have dreamed for decades to enter Portuguese East Africa (PEA), as it was known during the colonial days, but were disappointed as permit applications were repeatedly turned down. This nation has an area 20 percent larger than Manitoba, though less than six percent is arable land. At one point it appeared that applicants might be successful if they were fluent in Portuguese. So, in 1938 TEAM sent missionaries to Portugal to learn the language. When they arrived in South Africa to seek entrance into Mozambique, their hopes were dashed as the government of this Roman Catholic nation (17.8 percent of which is Muslim today) refused them entry. They were subsequently assigned to work near the border in northeast Zimbabwe (then Southern Rhodesia) among the Shona people. From there they made periodic trips into Mozambique to establish a small work in the hope that one day soon they would be given permission to enter the land more permanently. As the field got established in Zimbabwe, Word of Life radio and Light of Life correspondence ministries were established. Many Mozambicans got to participate in these as students. Eventually an invitation came for help to plant a church in Mozambique after which native Zimbabwean Christian leaders were sent to help them.

Olga and Joe Reimer (Blumenort) have spent 35 years with TEAM in Africa, mostly in South Africa. Mozambique borders South Africa, and Joe has made many trips there.

Historic timeline 1938: TEAM sends missionaries to Portugal for language learning. They are denied entry to Mozambique, but make period trips into the country. 1971: A couple is accepted into Maputo University. 1965–1974: War of independence ending with country coming under communist rule; missionaries not able to continue. 1980s: Civil war 1989: Marxism abandoned; TEAM applies and is officially registered as a mission in the country. 1992: Fighting ends 2001: TEAM-planted denomination in Brazil sends missionaries to central Mozamibue. 2008: Ministry continues! Mozambican interests in South Africa also continued, and in 1971 one couple was allowed entry into Maputo University to study Portuguese. While there they helped an indigenous pastor establish a Theological Education by Extension (TEE) training school. The war of independence (1965–74) brought about serious safety concerns, however, and when that was finally over the country was under communist rule. They were not able to continue after language school. Almost five centuries of Portuguese colonial rule came to a close with independence in 1975. Large-scale white emigration, economic dependence on

South Africa, a severe drought, and a prolonged civil war brought about severe challenges. War also brought opportunities. In the early 1980s, during Mozambique’s civil war which followed immediately after the war of independence, missionaries and local Swazi pastors frequented Maputo to bring in food and clothes for the poor. The ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FROLIMO) formally abandoned Marxism in 1989. The new constitution of the following year provided for multi-party elections and a free market economy. A UN-negotiated peace agreement between FROLIMO and RENAMO forces finally ended the fighting in 1992. When Marxism became a thing of the past TEAM applied for and was officially registered as a mission that was free to work in this country of 21 million people, 99.66% of whom are Black. Even before the war was over property was acquired in Maputo and one couple moved in to begin TEE in earnest. Two more couples soon followed and started ministries in respective cities further north. In 2001 the TEAM-planted denomination in Brazil—being fluent in Portuguese—explored missionary options, and later sent their first missionaries to central Mozambique near Beira. The story isn’t over, and the ministry continues. Joe Reimer

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

faith in action

Wally Doerksen

Good being done for others

hile visiting in Abbeydale Christian Fellowship in Calgary last March I came across a marvelous idea. I made a phone call to my cousin and discovered that they were not at home, but were in Louisiana. Nice place for a holiday, I thought. Good for them. Then I was told they were not holidaying, but were involved in an MDS project. This is even better, I thought. The trailer they were staying in was one that belonged to one of the members in Abbeydale congregation. This couple had moved the trailer out there at the beginning of the season, spent two weeks working, and then left it there for others to use. Subsequently, there was a stream of people all winter long going south, living in this trailer, and working for MDS during their stay. I don’t know if this was an official program of the church, or if there was any decision made in a membership meeting, but the end result is the same: Good being done for others by kind and caring people. The Social Concerns Committee of the conference wants to highlight these kinds of church activities, applaud people who participate in them, and encourage others to do likewise. Unfortunately, we are not always aware of such activities. Please e-mail me (jericotree@ yahoo.com) or The Messenger so we can give credit where credit is due and in so doing encourage others. Below is an example, written by Al Dueck. A few years ago a resident near Braeside EMC identified our church as the one with the lights on every evening of the week. Although his comment was a bit of an exaggeration, it did raise questions about how the community perceives us. Evenings, of course, are the best times for various meetings, but are our lights burning mainly to satisfy us or build up the saints (a good thing) or do our churches pitch in to help, in personal ways, the world outside the church walls? For the past three years Braesiders of all ages have participated in the Love Winnipeg initiative. In June we delivered small potted plants to 200 surprised and delighted homeowners. Our youngest participant, a three-year-old, donated the use of her wagon to deliver some of the blooms. The message at the door was brief: “We are from Braeside Church. Have a good day! God loves you!” If there were questions, we provided the answers. On following Saturdays we offered a free pancake THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

breakfast, carwash, and lunchtime barbecue. A lot of drive-bys took advantage of the freebies. On Sunday the primary Sunday School classes delivered cookies to neighbourhood homes. In previous years volunteers painted over graffiticovered city property, and they were gratified that the projects were not retagged. Our plans to continue the activity this year were, unfortunately, washed out by rain on two successive evenings. About 60 Braesiders of all ages were involved in the Love Winnipeg efforts. Stay tuned for more news on Braeside’s activities. Be sure to let me know what your church is doing. Wally Doerksen (Good News) is chairman of the EMC national Social Concerns Committee.

A few years ago a resident near Braeside EMC identified our church as the one with the lights on every evening of the week. Although his comment was a bit of an exaggeration, it did raise questions about how the community perceives us.

with our churches

Work and play at Abbeydale Abbeydale (Calgary, Alta.): The weekend of August 17–19, 2007, was our church campout at Bleriot Ferry, Drumheller, Alta. Our youth campout was on September 7–9, 2007 at Camp Harmattan near Sundre, Alta. The theme was Get Lost—an invitation and a challenge to go places spiritually you had not gone before. In September, Trevor Plett accepted the position of youth pastoral intern, thus fulfilling Dennis and Irene Plett and Harold and Sandra Friesen enjoy a meal his internship requirements together at the church campout. Neighbourlink food drive: Not only was the trunk of this car to obtain his youth ministry full, but also the back seat. Register early—before February 29, 2008 • $40/person degree from Rocky Mountain Bible after February 29, 2008 • $50/person College and to help our church “fill the group rate for 3 or more from one church • $30/person gap” until a permanent young life pastor Call Christal at SBC 1-204-326-6451 is found. Register online at www.sbcollege.ca In September, a food drive was held for Neighbourlink, a local church-run food bank. We filled a car of food for Register early—before February 29, 2008 • $40/person after February 29, 2008 • $50/person people in need. group rate for 3 or more from one church • $30/person In October, we worked with Love in Call Christal at SBC 1-204-326-6451 Action on a church clean-up day. Love Register online at www.sbcollege.ca in Action is the Spanish church that uses our meeting space on Sunday afternoons. One project was knocking out walls in the basement to eliminate two classrooms, thus enlarging the common area adjacent to the kitchen. On October 30, 2007, a group from Abbeydale went to the Mustard Seed— one of Calgary’s homeless shelters—to help serve food. We serve at the Mustard Youth campout group Seed on the fifth Tuesday of every month. People from our church also bring goodies like cookies to be distributed there. Kathy Dueck

March 14‒15, 2008

SBC Leadership Conference Register early— group rate for 3 or more from one church • $30/person Trevor Plett, youth pastoral intern

Call Christal at SBC 1-204-326-6451 or register online at www.sbcollege.ca

Register early—before February 29, 2008 • $40/person THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008 after February 29, 2008 • $50/person group rate for 3 or more from one church • $30/person

Wymark, a warm fellowship Wymark, Sask.: The winds of change have been blowing through our Wymark EMC rural community. This, of course, is nothing novel in our Canadian rural landscape. A major exodus to the centres of larger population has become a trend. This, with other internal issues in the fellowship, demands a new look at how we function as a dynamic Christian community in Wymark and its area and outside missionary endeavour. The 35 percent reduction in congregants demands some significant changes, for example, in our pastoral model. The hiring of a full-time pastor is not always a viable option financially; and as a result we have been without salaried staff for most of the past four years.

We went through a period of concern as we noticed the demographics change to an older congregation. That shift is now arrested as younger families are moving into the community. For the most part we have done quite well. Currently we have four local men from our own fellowship who speak on a monthly rotation. As a congregation we have as yet not decided what our preferred pastoral model should be: A pastoral team or a salaried man. We went through a period of concern as we noticed the demographics change to an older congregation. That shift is now arrested as younger families are moving into the community and looking for church homes. Church services are buzzing with young kids again, much to our delight. Our average Sunday morning attendance now stands at 75 to 80, not counting the summer months. During the month of April we received two couples into our fellowship: Peter and Linda Enns and Kirk and Lynette Wall. Both couples are deeply involved in ministries in our fellowship. Archie Neufeld, our new lay minister, did the official welcoming. We expect to have four or five home Bible studies going this winter. Missionary support has been enthusiastic, since we don’t have a salaried pastor. We praise the Lord for a warm fellowship. Edward Friesen

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

Minister Archie Neufeld with new members Kirk and Lynette Wall, Linda and Peter Enns.

World Fellowship Sunday Jan. 27 Anabaptists world-wide are invited to celebrate World Fellowship Sunday on January 27, 2008. MWC asks Anabaptist-related churches to remember our common roots and our Koinonia on a Sunday near January 21, when in 1525 the first Anabaptist baptism took place in Zurich, Switzerland. The theme Worship and serve the Lord your God focuses on how to worship the Lord our God in spirit and in truth calls us into action and service. WFS materials are on line at www.mwc-cmm.org in English, French, Spanish, German, and Portuguese. They include suggestions for worship, prayer requests, sermon prompts, and a story. Each year Anabaptists from a different continental region prepare the materials. This year it is Africa’s turn, and it introduces the Mennonite Church in Tanzania. MWC

18 teams participate in EM Cup The 23rd Annual EM Cup hockey tournament, held November 9-11, 2007, in Steinbach, Man., was a success. The goal of the tournament is to promote fellowship among EMC churches and to enjoy the great game of hockey with others. In this year’s tournament there were 18 different EMC churches or affiliate organizations represented. The format of the tournament was a two division round robin with a play off. The twelve teams who registered for the regular draw played three-round robin games and one playoff game each. Rosenort EMC defeated Grand Prairie 6-3 in an intense and emotion-filled final. Teams who participated in the regular draw were SBC, Inner City Youth Alive, Blumenort, Ridgewood, Pleasant Valley, Morris, Fort Frances, Fort Garry, Morweena, Oak Bluff, Rosenort EMC, and Grande Prairie. Six teams registered for the recreational draw which guaranteed

the teams three games without a playoff game. This format promoted teams to play without the pressure to compete against some of the power house squads. The teams who registered for the recreational division were Good News, Steinbach EMC, Steinbach EFC, St. Vital, Kleefeld, and Braeside. Memorable moments from this year’s tournament were: • Braeside’s rookie goaltender, and a player who had never worn skates before. Chalk that one up for the spirit of participation! • Long time rivals, Blumenort and Ridgewood meeting in a playoff game. Blumenort won 6–4. • Inner City Youth Alive’s goaltender stealing some games for them. ICYA finally lost 7–6 in a close semi-final game to Rosenort EMC. • Mat Starr (ICYA) sharing his story and testimony to about 60 players (continued page 12)

(continued from page 11)

and referees at the Saturday morning breakfast. • Rosenort EMC winning their fourth consecutive championship. The tournament committee would like to thank all those who supported HMI (Hockey Ministries International) with donations ($1,116). HMI (www.HMI.com) is a vital part of minor hockey across the country. The Tournament Committee, consisting of Nolan Koop, Sheldon Penner, and Colin Loewen, would also like to thank all the players, referees, timekeepers, arena staff, volunteers, and fans for another successful tournament. See you next November! Colin Loewen

Rosenort EMC won its fourth consecutive championship.

Who tells the government its responsibility? The MCC World Aids Day fundraiser has become a November staple for many members of the Mennonite community in Calgary. MCC’s Generations at Risk project provides funds for education and treatment of AIDS victims, promoting reduction of the terrible effect of AIDS on the children and parents of those tested HIV-positive. Featuring music by Canadian celebrity Tom Jackson, and personal and heartfelt introductions by Menno Wiebe, MCC World AIDS Day 2007 was an affirming and a personally challenging event. This year, former National Chief Ovide Mercredi approached the AIDS crisis from a different angle, one that gave stark outline to the growing problem of AIDS in indigenous communities in Canada. He spoke for almost an hour, coming back to the refrain: “We cannot deal with

AIDS.” On top of economic and political marginalization, the decimation of traditional cultures and identities, and the struggle to maintain access to even minimal levels of healthcare we assume is available to anyone, these communities cannot deal with AIDS. Still fighting to get roads, viable and sustainable local economy, the ability to reacquire self-sufficiency, these communities do not have the resources for HIV/AIDS. But HIV/AIDS has come. We are painfully aware of the AIDS crisis in Africa; it is a common media topic, and even a political issue. But what of the crisis within our borders? Often, the education and treatment we strive to provide in Africa is unavailable to people less than four hours away. Have we become too eager to look outside our borders? Are we too uncomfortable with the thought that

we are part of the oppressive force dominating these people? Something that struck me in Ovide Mercredi’s speech was his assertion that it is not MCC’s responsibility as a nonprofit organization to deal with these problems, but the government’s. This alludes to the magnitude of the problems facing his people. It allows us to shift the blame for the horrific conditions imposed on these people. But who tells the government what is its responsibility? Mr. Mercredi has been for years. Do we? The aid work we do as a Mennonite organization is essential to our confession of faith, but maybe it is time to begin stepping outside our comfort zone, to be willing to take a political voice. Besides singing wonderfully and developing a humorous rapport with his audience, Tom Jackson emphasized the importance of love, and how important it is to let people know that they are loved. Christ’s love, in a Mennonite perspective, manifests itself in our work with communities around the world. Within our own borders, however, we have the unique opportunity to show our love in ways we may not be entirely used to. Indigenous communities affected by AIDS need access to education and treatment, the same as in Africa. But they also need a voice. They need to know that their voices are heard. Most importantly, they need to know that our voices will join theirs in working to end the oppression of First Nations peoples. John Beriault, MCC Alberta

Nina Kesel, event co-coordinator; Ovide Mercredi, guest speaker; Kim Thiessen, event co-coordinator

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

Schellenberg flabbergasted at museum display Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg has a passion for Anabaptist history, with a special concern for Steinbach-area and wider EMC history. So when curator Roland Sawatzky asked him to come to the Mennonite Heritage Museum in Steinbach, Man., on December 4, 2007, to look at some materials, Schellenberg dutifully showed up. But what Schellenberg saw left him flabbergasted: A gallery display of 50 photos taken and printed by him and used on the cover of The Messenger during his quarter-century (1963–1987) as its editor. The display was the idea of Loren Koehler, voluntary EMC archivist, who came across the photos. His hard work, together with that of archives photos volunteer Betty Koop, resulted in an afternoon when a smaller group of about 20 people attended the surprise event. “Thousands” more are yet to benefit, according to the curator, as they visit the gallery and see the display that remains through May 2008. Don Kroeker, chairman of the EMC Archives Committee, said of Schellenberg in an e-mail read by Loren Koehler, “I have never failed to be impressed by his dedication to the written word and to the preservation of our Conference’s history. “This exhibit provides evidence of another of Mr. Schellenberg’s many gifts and serves as a reminder of the importance that The Messenger played in the development of the EM Conference. “By founding and then serving as its editor for many years, Mr. Schellenberg was instrumental in helping the EMC expand from its German-speaking, Southeastern Manitoba roots into a national conference with churches in five provinces and a membership encompassing a wide variety of cultural backgrounds.” Menno Hamm, editor of The Messenger from 1988 to 1997, said “in a sense” Schellenberg was a man “before his time,” snapping pictures when others saw it as a form of “idolatry.” He was “a man of vision and a man of action, dedicated to serving God and his community.” Whereas the German language Familienfreund was print only, the first issue of The Messenger (January 11, 1963) had photographs. Technology has changed, Hamm said. Schellenberg printed photos first in a lab in his basement and later in a darkroom in the national office building. Including

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

photographs and colour was expensive years ago, while “today you put in digital images with the click of a mouse.” Hamm “greatly appreciated” Schellenberg’s traveling to different churches to produce “profiles” that are “significant for unifying the church family.” “Dave’s foresight and activity has provided a rich historical treasure in the EMC archives,” Menno said. “And I want to bring tribute to our brother Dave Schellenberg, congratulating him for his exemplary effort, providing a legacy both print and picture.” Terry Smith, editor since 1997, said that when Schellenberg was appointed editor in 1962, “Rev. Abe Unger was appointed assistant editor, perhaps to keep an eye on this young upstart with his daring ideas. But, if so, Rev. Unger was a curious choice—because he, in his own way, was also a radical.” After leaving the editorship, Schellenberg has had 20 years of behind-the-scenes influence, in Smith’s experience “never imposing, but willing to serve when called upon.” “The display is possible because of Rev. Schellenberg’s service for the Lord, and for that we give Editor Schellenberg our thanks—with ultimate thanks going to Christ our Saviour.” Roland Sawatzky, curator, said he was “struck” by how the photos displayed “a sense of incredible balance” and are “framed by what’s in the background.” The afternoon ended with guests viewing the display and with refreshments. Terry M. Smith

Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg examines a display.

Loren Koehler, who organized the display, shows some samples of Rev. Schellenberg’s photographic work.

Editors of The Messenger: Menno Hamm (1988–1997), Dave K. Schellenberg (1963–1987), and Terry Smith (1997–present). (photos by Becky Buhler)

SBC Leadership Conference changes pastors Do you need another reason to attend the SBC Leadership Conference in March? SBC professor and long-time pastor Dave Reimer, a regular conference attendee, describes how it has changed his outlook on ministry. What aspect of the SBC Leadership Conference do you ﬁnd most beneﬁcial? Reimer: The speakers and their presentations are usually very helpful in addressing some of the bigger, longterm questions of church and ministry. The most encouraging for me is the interaction with other pastors, as I hear them responding to the many great ideas presented, and how they can or cannot be used in our contexts. It becomes real.

Can you provide an example of how you’ve used the tools attained at the SBC Leadership Conference in real life? Reimer: About five years ago, a conference entitled Growing Your Own Church Leaders challenged me with the distinct part of a pastor’s role in the church. That conference forced me to re-evaluate my priorities as a pastor, and seek out opportunities to mentor up and coming leaders. Why would you recommend the Conference to other pastors? Reimer: I would strongly encourage pastors to attend the conference because of the camaraderie that develops

Friesen’s new Eden CEO James Friesen is the new Chief Executive Officer of Eden Health Care Services effective January 2008. James has served Eden and the supporting constituencies well for the past 26 years in different James Friesen capacities, including 15 years either as Director of Eden Residential Care Services or Director of Development for the Eden Foundation. James has completed the requirements for a Bachelor of Theology degree at Canadian Mennonite Bible College, with further courses at the University of Manitoba, including a variety of work-related workshops and seminars. James was a founding member of the PSR (Psychosocial Rehabilitation) Association, both in Manitoba and Canada. James and his wife Sharon live in Tinker Creek, a community south of Morden, Man., and are active within a house church community called Pembina Fellowship, affiliated with Mennonite Church Manitoba. They have two married children. James Friesen replaces Eckhard Goerz, who is retiring after seven effective years with Eden. Eden Board

FRIEDA (DERKSEN) MARTENS 1930–2007 Frieda (Derksen) Martens entered into rest on December 3, 2007, at the age of 77 years after a courageous battle with cancer. Frieda was born June 8, 1930, to Cornelius and Margaretha Neufeld. She was the sixth child in a family of eight boys and two girls. On April 12, 1950, Frieda was married to Andrew Derksen of Didsbury, Alberta, and five children were born into this family. They spent their married life in Didsbury and area, where Andrew spent his working years farming and driving milk truck for Reimer Transport. Frieda was very involved in the community, working at various jobs in the hospital, driving school bus as well as doing janitorial work in the high school. She finished her working career with MCC Ten Thousand Villages selling crafts at the store and craft shows. She also volunteered with Christian Women’s Club, Hospital Volunteers and Palliative Care. The church was very important in her life. Frieda was a Sunday School

between us as partners in the ministry of Christ. Also, this year in particular, we have a distinct opportunity to learn about leading the church in today’s world from John Stackhouse, who has a very well informed understanding of Canadian culture, world religions, and the way in which the church can proclaim the gospel today. This is going to be good! To register call Christal at 204-326-6451 or www.sbcollege.ca. SBC teacher in her younger days and involved with the Ladies Aid at the Bergthal Mennonite Church. She had a very close walk with her Saviour, and has reached her ultimate goal, heaven. Frieda’s family was also very important to her. On May 24, 1989, Andrew passed away. After being a widow for ten years, on December 4, 1999, she married Abe Martens of Kola, Man., which gave her more children and grandchildren to love. Frieda is survived by husband, Abe Martens, Gwen (Hugh) Pedersen, Les (Tina) Derksen, Del (Sylvia) Derksen, Luella (Ivan) Braun, 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; stepchildren Joanne Martens, Eleanor (Rey) Plett, Gerald (Elly) Martens, Gordon (Lynn) Martens, Les (Jan) Martens, and 14 step-grandchildren. Also left to cherish Frieda’s memory are seven brothers, one sister, Abe Marten’s five brothers and five sisters, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Frieda was predeceased by her parents, daughter Gladys in 1963, husband Andrew in 1989, one brother, two sisters-in-law, three brothers-inlaw, and parents-in-law. A memorial service was held on Friday, December 7, 2007. Internment took place in the Bergthal Mennonite Church Cemetery. Memorial donations in Frieda’s honour can be directed to the Canadian Food Grains Bank, Box 767, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2L4 or to the Mennonite Central Committee Alberta, Suite 210, 2946-32 Street NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 6J7. Her Family

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

shoulder tapping THE EMC wishes to hire a full-time Archivist for a one-year term position (preferably starting in early January 2008) at the Conference Office in Steinbach, Man. The archivist will work with the Conference’s archival collection, about 300 boxes of materials, and periodicals and books. The main goal of the year is to prepare the collection for transfer to a suitable archival facility. The duties and responsibilities are: Organizing and describing archival holdings according to standard archival principles; determining status of collections donated or loaned to the EMC Archives; preparing finding aids to improve access to the records; identifying records that need special preservation and making recommendations on proper preservation practices and techniques; supervising volunteers; working with Conference staff, boards and committees to ensure that archival records are properly identified and proper measures are taken to ensure their long-term preservation; preparing an archival display for the EMC Convention in July 2008. Qualifications and attributes: A graduate degree in Archival or Information Studies or an acceptable equivalent of education and experience; at least one year of experience working in an archival or research setting; familiarity with the Microsoft Office suite of applications; strong self-motivation and the ability to work independently with little or no supervision; good interpersonal skills for dealing with Conference staff, boards and committees, and archival donors and volunteers; a familiarity with Canadian Mennonite history in general and the EM Conference in particular would be an asset; a working reading knowledge of German, including the Gothic script, would be a strong asset. The archivist is to be committed to a personal Christian faith and work well within a denominational office setting. Salary details are available upon request. Interviews for the position will continue until a suitable candidate is found. Please contact Executive Secretary Terry Smith at emcterry@mts.net or 204-236-6401. 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.

THE MESSENGER January 9, 2008

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. STEINBACH EMC (www.emchurch.com) in Steinbach, Man., is looking for a motivated, creative and energetic person to fill the position of pastor of youth ministries. The applicant would be involved in the coordination of all youth programs and activities. Deadline for resume submission is January 1, 2008. Please forward your resume either by email or mail to: Randy Martens, Pastor of Youth Ministries Search Committee, Box 3212, Steinbach, MB R5G 1P5, phone: 204-326-3608, e-mail: randymartens@ hotmail.com or erniefro@mts.net. 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. LEAMINGTON EMC, in southern Ontario, seeks a full-time youth pastor to work with our junior and senior youth groups. The church’s average attendance is 300 people. Education and experience are flexible, though preference is for someone with experience or a related college diploma. Salary and benefits info is available upon request. Must have a passion to work with young people and work well with others. This isn’t a new position, though it’s currently being filled by volunteers. Contact Abe Klassen, board chairman, at 519-816-1840 or abek@ masterconveyors.com; or Danny Dick, ministerial chair, at 519-326-4584. BRIGHTWOOD RANCH, a Christian camp providing a summer camp experience for underprivileged children from Edmonton Alta., seeks summer camp staff for 2008. Summer positions are paid and include: counselors, program director, tipi village program director, training team leaders, head wrangler, maintenance assistant, head cook, assistant cooks/ kitchen help, assistant wranglers, and nurse. Also needed are volunteers: junior counselors, kitchen staff, maintenance person and camp grandparent(s) for a week or more. Email: brightwood@hopemission.com. HODGSON CHRISTIAN Academy seeks a full-time classroom teacher. HCA is approximately two hours north of Winnipeg on Highway #17, just south of Peguis and Fisher River reserves in central Manitoba. HCA, a grade 1-12 school for natives, opened in 2003 and has 18 students. The teacher position opening is for a class of 10 junior high students. Certification is not a requirement, but applicants with experience in Christian education will be given preference.

Please contact Principal Tim 204-364-2466 or treimer@juno.com.

Reimer

CAMP ASSINIBOIA, Headingley, Man., requires a manager, beginning in April 2008. Key attributes being sought include energy, effective communication and operational know-how. There is also an opening for a guest group coordinator (0.5). Direct inquiries to: Director of Camping Ministries, Mennonite Church Manitoba, 200-600 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2J1, E-mail: camps@ mennochurch.mb.ca, Ph. 204-895-2267. MENNONITE FOUNDATION of Canada is accepting applications for a receptionist in the Winnipeg, Man., office. This person will be responsible for front desk and telephone reception, processing incoming and outgoing mail including deposits and receipting, word processing and various other clerical duties. Experience in a computerized office environment, specifically using Microsoft Office software with proficiency in Word is desired. Applicants should enjoy interacting with the public and possess strong interpersonal and telephone skills. MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. A complete job description is available upon request. Processing of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested persons should send their resume to Assistant Manager, Mennonite Foundation of Canada, 12-1325 Markham Rd., Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6, Ph. 204-488-1985, Fax 204-488-1986, E-mail: rbjanzen@mennofoundation.ca. MENNONITE FOUNDATION of Canada seeks an administrative assistant/receptionist for its office in Kitchener, Ont. Applicants should be at ease interacting with the public and possess strong interpersonal and communications skills. Previous administrative experience and computer proficiency are desired. Check details at www.mennofoundation. ca. Submit your resume to MFC, 50 Kent Ave., Kitchener, ON N2G 3R1; mfceast@mennofoundation. ca; 519-745-7821 or fax 519-745-8940. EDEN FOUNDATION, based in Winkler, Man., seeks a director of development. Eden Foundation supports the programs of Eden Health Care Services, which provides acute and community mental health recovery services in collaboration with faith constituencies, local communities, and Regional and Manitoba Health Authorities. The director of development works collaboratively with the CEO and staff and is responsible to the Foundation board. Duties include church and constituency reporting, public relations, fundraising and all aspects of fund development. Qualifications include a related university degree or equivalent training or experience, strong communications skills, demonstrated project or event management experience and familiarity with the Manitoba church constituency. The Board is seeking an individual who exhibits a strong understanding and affirmation of Anabaptist faith and values. Submit resumes to: Director of Development Search, Eden Foundation, Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A4, Fax 204-325-8742, E-mail: edencare@ valleycable.com. Applications will be received until position is filled.

Courage for the New Year Again we have entered another New Year, Unaware of what the future may hold; Loss or prosperity, illness or health, Sorrow or joy, weâ€™re not told. But as God called Abraham long, long ago To go to a country unknown, He calls us to follow Him through this New Year Though each twist of the path is not shown.

Just as by faith Abraham obeyed God and went, Even so we must follow our Guide And entrust the unknowns to His loving care As we carefully walk near His side. Our Lord knows each circumstance lying ahead, So our future we need never fear, Nor live in the shadows of worrisome dread, For whatever comes, He will be near.

He will go with us, come good things or ill, Not leave us to face him alone. His wonderful promises He will fulďŹ ll, His faithfulness will surely be shown. So let us take courage and travel by faith And anticipate where our path leads. Let hope, joy, and peace fellow travelers be For God will supply all our needs. L. Marie Enns

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. Hebrews 11:8

PAGE 16

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