The Messenger Vol. 46 No. 14 August 20, 2008

THE

MESSENGER

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

volume 46, number 14 August 20, 2008

Don’t Quench the

Flame!

Saving the church from

rivalry and

division

See inside for more Convention

2008 coverage www.emconf.ca/Messenger

editorial

W

The ‘we’ behind our General Budget

e want to see what changes our dollars are causing. That’s why today’s EMC members gave more designated funds in 2007.

We are not alone; a sister Mennonite conference also saw an increase in designated funds.

It means, increasingly, Christians want to be involved with particular projects. We care, want to track specific efforts, and enjoy seeing positive developments. That’s The General Budget commendable. involves dozens of However, there is a downside: ministries in about Funds for our General Budget were reduced in 2007. two dozen countries.

Why does this matter? It’s A shortfall in General because the General Budget also reflects “we.” We decided together, Budget funds meant through the majority of our church that some decisions delegates, to approve the General we made could not be Budget in December 2006.

carried out.

I

On being legally literate

predict: • Christian charities will be more restricted.

• Churches will endure more lawsuits.

• Christians will be partly to blame.

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves,” Jesus said. “Therefore be as shrewd as serpents and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Paul instructed, “Be careful to do what is right in the sight of everybody” (Romans 12:17).

Does your congregation have policies on child protection and building rental use, liability insurance for staff and board members, and up-to-date accounting and charitable receipting practices? For faithful stewards, a lawsuit or an audit is worth avoiding.

“The Lord will take care of us,” some might say. “We don’t need that stuff.” However, part of the Bible suggests otherwise.

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 EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR are welcomed. Unpublished material is Terry M. Smith Rebecca Buhler not returned except by request. Views and tsmith@emconf.ca rbuhler@emconf.ca opinions of writers are their own and do Address changes and submissions to The Messenger not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors. should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) MESSENGER SCHEDULE: by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 No. 15 – September 3 Main St, Steinbach, Man. (copy due August 22)

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The General Budget involves dozens of ministries in about two dozen countries. A shortfall in General Budget funds meant that some decisions we made could not be carried out. EMCers didn’t lack funds—giving was strong—but more funds were designated.

What might help EMCers realize the exciting ministries “hidden” under the dull category of General Budget? In promoting our joint efforts, both local church representatives and national office staff are involved.

National staff can always do a better job. Let us know what you need.

Do council delegates regularly report to your church about our twice-yearly national meetings?

When pastors, board chairs, and delegates report regularly, they become strong links in connecting the local church to the joint efforts of the wider conference (60 churches). Some do it well.

Thank you to all who gave to EM Conference efforts, T general or designated, in 2007 and so far this year! M Terry M. Smith

The Holy Scriptures contain much civil law, how rulers and their representatives decided legal cases. Why are civil laws included in the Bible? As in all of Scripture, it’s for “teaching, reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).

Many Christians believe the Bible, but how well do we know civil law? Our testimony is affected by our attitude toward civil authority (Romans 13:6-7; 1 Peter 2:16-17).

We can help to preserve our congregations, our freedoms, and our charitable receipting privileges by tightening our own policies and actions as local churches, denominations, and Christian organizations.

For instance, Christian charities that advertise books with a varying “suggested donation” amount should just T sell the books. M Terry M. Smith

Subscriptions: $12 per year (Manitoba residents add 7% PST, total: $12.84).

Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents.

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THE

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Mailing information: Undelivered copies, change of address and new subscriptions, should be addressed to: 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Phone: 204-326-6401, Fax: 204-326-1613

MESSENGER

On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

letters Wearing jeans, I worship the Lord I am a Christian. I have pierced ears, I have a tattoo, and I wear jeans to church.

When I go to church I am fully aware I am entering “God’s house.” I am there to worship and to be open to what the Lord is trying to teach me.

I am not aware of what others are wearing. I believe they are there for the same reason I am. Who am I to judge and be distracted by what kind of clothes they have on? My focus is on worship and the church service.

With all my heart I believe John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

I believe that God sent His only Son to die for my sins and I believe God loves me and I know my life with Christ will be everlasting.

Judy Siemens Rosenort, Man.

Letters to the Editor Letters published are generally to comment on issues raised in The Messenger. Letters by hand or fax require a handwritten signature. All letters require a name, an address and a phone number. Letters can be edited for length, clarity, legality, and taste. The focus of letters is to be on an issue, not a personality. All publication of letters is subject to the policy approved January 2002 by the EMC Board of Church Ministries.

A woman’s work is to be at home In Genesis 3:20 it states that Adam named the woman Eve because she would be the mother of all living. Her name means mother. As women we were created from the very beginning to be mothers.

In Titus 2:4–5, Paul admonishes wives to “love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” Many women are not taking their role that God ordained seriously and are in danger of blaspheming the word of God. In the KJV it reads “keepers of the home.”

We need to obey God. Jesus said in Matthew 7:14, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.” We are not to be like the world.

Concerned about living on a single income? Jesus did not say that God might provide all of our needs; He said He will provide all of our needs. Some of our wants may have to wait.

Would the word of God speak about taking care of widows and orphans if they were meant to go out and get themselves a job? James 1:27: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after widows and orphans in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

Widows and orphans are to be taken care of by their own family. This is so that the mothers can care for their children. 1 Timothy 5:8, “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” Note the clear male responsibility by the use of the words his and he.

God never intended women to go out and work and put their children in daycare to have someone else look after them. This is the mother’s job. It is fulfilling now and well into the future.

It reaps eternal benefits. Children are a blessing of the Lord! There are many blessings that come by being at home with your children.

Proverbs 31 speaks about the woman that is worth far more than rubies, but we need to notice this woman is at home diligently working with and for her family.

She works with her hands, she provides food for her family, she is clothed with strength and dignity, she watches over the affairs of her household, and “a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

We should have reverence and awe for the word of God and follow it. God is God, and His word is very good.

Michelle Laitinen Ste. Anne, Man.

Apply now for September 2008 1.800.230.8478 www.sbcollege.ca

Bible Tour March 29–April 7 Have you wanted to see the land of the Bible up close and personal? Consider the Israel 2009 Biblical Discovery Tour that is being planned for March 29–April 7, 2009.

Hosted by Pastor Dale Dueck (Winkler EMMC), you will experience many sites read about in the Scriptures.

Tour base price of $2,749 CAD includes non-stop airfare from Toronto to Tel Aviv return, transfers and assistance upon arrival, hotel, two meals daily, modern air-conditioned tour bus, admission to various sites.

There are incidental tour costs which can be explained when you call for information (204-325-7667 or pastordale-wemmc@mts.net).

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

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Convention 2008

Two of Four

Don’t Quench the

Flame!

Dr. Grant C. Richison

Saving the church from

rivalry and

division 4

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

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t is one thing to save a soul, but it is another to save a church. The corporate testimony of the church was at stake at Philippi. Philippians has to do with saving the corporate health of the Church.

The Human Side Therefore. The therefore connects verses 12–16 with verses 1–11. This word acts like a hinge that connects the Philippians to Christ. Christ gave himself in humility, even the humility of a criminal’s death (2:5–8).

Most of us want others to cater to us. We will not go out of our way to minister to them. Alas, that is not the attitude of most of us. We want to be served, not to serve. That was not the attitude of our Saviour. His attitude was to serve others. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

This is just the opposite of what took place in the church of Philippi. Euodia and Syntyche thought they had a right to sustain a feud because they were hurt by the other person. As a result, the entire church took sides. They did not win people to Christ but operated a religious debating society to determine who was right.

Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Salvation in this verse is the corporate salvation of the church from division. People often interpret “work out your salvation” to mean saving the soul. The context, however, is saving a church from splitting into fractions.

The church was to work out the problems of their congregation but they were not to do with a sledgehammer but with “fear and trembling.” We do not go to a plumber for brain surgery.

God’s Side For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for his good pleasure. Both human responsibility and God’s enablement are necessary to save a church.

The church resolves division ultimately through God. We feel as if the whole thing depends on us.

The word work here always conveys supernatural work (1 Thessalonians 2:13; Hebrews 4:12). God works according to a blue print. Either he will work in us or he will work on us. Either way, he will accomplish his purpose.

God has taken an oath that every Christian will ultimately be just like the Lord Jesus. We have all seen the sign on the highway Men at Work.

We can put a sign over the church: God at Work.

God provides both the will and the ability to heal relationships.

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

God has taken an oath that every Christian will ultimately be just like the Lord Jesus. We have all seen the sign on the highway Men at Work. We can put a sign over the church: God at Work. God provides both the will and the ability to heal relationships.

Model Characteristics We are to be free from destructive attitudes (2:14).

Do all things without complaining and disputing. The word all is a disconcerting word: “Lord, did you mean ‘most things’ with some exceptions?” “No, all things!”

Destructive attitude Number 1: Complaining.

Complaining is a bad attitude expressed in grumbling.

The word murmur means to speak in low, almost inaudible terms. This was the favourite indoor sport of the nation Israel: “Nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer” (1 Corinthians 10:10).

Some Christians are perpetually unhappy; nothing pleases them. They are on the negative side of every positive question and on the positive side of every negative question. They are born inside out.

We go through life complaining about people. The trouble is that our ego hurts for lack of recognition for the “real us.” Yet the “real us” is a complainer that everyone avoids if at all possible.

Destructive Attitude Number 2: Disputing. This vacuum in our souls develops when others do not act upon us in church. In that vacuum we argue our case.

The trouble is that our ego has been hurt by lack of recognition and appreciation so we love to debate.

Four constructive attitudes Free from censure—that you may become blameless.

The first characteristics of a model church is that it is free from censure. Blameless connotes freedom from criticism of the church. The corporate testimony of the church was at stake.

Genuine, with unmixed signals, harmless. The second characteristic that contravenes a poor testimony is harmless. This word was used for unadulterated, undiluted wine. After a customer became inebriated, an ancient tavern keeper would dilute his drinks with water. Such a person was called a huckster. The opposite of a huckster is a person who has genuine testimony before those without Christ.

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If all non-Christians see are Children of God. The third Christians should shine as critical Christians, that is a poor characteristic is that the child of God lights in a “crooked” and depiction of Christ. should act like his heritage. He should Eternal values in view be conscious of who he is: “I am a child “perverse” world. Darkness Holding fast the word of life so of the King! I do not have to fuse and is where the light is needed. that I may rejoice in the day of fume with other Christians.” This is an Christ that I have not run in vain identity issue. Everything I do reflects The only light this world or laboured in vain (2:16). The on King Jesus: “I must comport myself can see is the believer. day of Christ refers to when he as a child of the King. There is work to returns to meet his own in the be done.” air. Paul rejoices that he taught the Word of God. Paul Royalty does not put their feet upon the dinner kept a global view of his life of how the Lord would table. A child of God does not do battle with other evaluate his life. Our race is a race against a wasted children of God. life. It is so easy to live for unimportant things.

Anticipate criticism, without fault. The fourth standard to keep in mind is “without fault” mentality.

Conclusion This person has no sinful stain on his life.

Anyone can criticize an egg, but it is much more difficult to lay one! If you are a critical person, A light to its generation remember it is easier to criticize than put yourself on In the midst of a crooked and perverse generation the line. among whom you shine as lights in the world (2:15– Someone may try to share Christ, build another 16). Paul now presents the reason why these criteria believer, care about someone, or support someone. are necessary in 2:15–16. People outside Christ wrote They may not have done it right. They might have off the Philippian church. The “crooked and perverse done it better. Maybe someone else could have done generation” viewed Christianity with skepticism and T it better, but at least they were on the firing line. M cynicism.

Christians should shine as lights in a “crooked” Dr. Grant C. Richison, our and “perverse” world. Darkness is where the light EMC Convention 2008 is needed. The only light this world can see is the speaker, is a theologian, believer. That is why it is so dark. We are the best speaker, and writer with Christian some people know.

Campus Crusade for God calls Christians to shed luminosity as widely Christ. He is the former as possible. The word lights means luminaries and long-term pastor of Grant carries the idea of reflected light. The sun generates Memorial Baptist Church light but the moon reflects light. The world receives (Winnipeg, Man.). Dr. light from both bodies of light.

Richison resides in Florida.

The sun that generates light is the Son of God. The believer is the moon that reflects the light of Jesus.

EMC Convention messages by Dr. Grant C. Richison Firing Up the Church ~ Fanning the flames of smoldering ministries and gifts Don’t Quench the Flame! ~ Saving the church from rivalry and division When Heat isn’t Healthy! ~ Restoring a broken church Keeping the Church in Full Flame ~ Keeping priorities in focus

EMC Ministerial Retreat November 29–December 1, 2008

Celebrating the Call of God in Ministry Speakers: Dr. Henry and Linda Ozirney Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre in Pinawa, Man. For all pastors, associates, ministers, missionaries (active or retirees), elders, deacons, and spouses.

Contact Barry or Norine Plett, 204-326-1644, barry.blumemc@mts.net www.emconf.ca

Can be heard ON-LINE at www.emconf.ca.

Inspirational sessions are also available in a four-CD set, $10 per set (to cover the cost of production). To order e-mail info@emconf.ca or call Ruth Anne Peters at 204-326-6401.

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THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

with our missionaries Oaxaca, Mexico

Tired, but satisfied in translating No matter how you look at it, Matthew is a long book—13.07 percent of the New Testament, 28 chapters, 1071 verses. On Friday we completed 14 verses, which means we have revised 325 to date.

One can get a lot more done if one has a schedule or follows a certain routine— at least I can. But even a good thing can become wearying.

I haven’t been able to come up with a word in English that describes life for me right now. I thought of eindreechtich in Low German, but when someone suggested that monotonous might be a translation for that word, I had second thoughts. Translation work is interesting, satisfying, and even exciting at times; it’s certainly not boring.

So what it is that we’re involved in right now that is doing more or less the same thing each day, day after day?

Revising the book of Matthew.

We’re trying something new this summer: revising Matthew in two varieties of Zapotec at once. I had reservations about this at first since the last time we tried this several years ago, the translator for one dialect walked out

people movement

Dallas and Tara Wiebe

LeRoy and Faith Siemens

Dallas and Tara Wiebe (Kleefeld) and LeRoy and Faith Siemens (EFC Steinbach) have begun Spanish language studies at the Rio Grande Bible Institute in Edinburgh, Texas, in preparation for ministry to Spanish-speaking people. Both couples are graduates of Steinbach Bible College and have been accepted by the EMC Board of Missions. We encourage you to pray for them and their families as they begin their preparation for cross-cultural ministry.

missionaries and church pastors in Mexico can stay while in El Paso for business or relaxation. It is also available for family and friends when traveling to visit ministries in Mexico. To plan your guesthouse visit, contact the Conference office.

Ken Zacharias, Foreign Secretary

Jake and Judy Bueckert (First Alliance Church) of Calgary, Alta., have been accepted by the Board of Missions to begin a service assignment in mid-September as hosts of the El Paso, Texas, guesthouse.

The guesthouse is where EMC

in a huff right at the beginning of Romans 6. I am still very sad about that.

This time, however, with a different mix of people, things are working much better. One is obviously the senior translator and male; the other, female, but with enough experience in translation by now that she can capably defend her translation when needed. There is good interaction between the two and I’m confident that both translations will benefit from each other’s input.

What pleases me even more is that the senior translator will change his translation to match the translation in the other dialect when it is the more natural one.

However, no matter how you look at it, Matthew is a long book—13.07 percent of the New Testament, 28 chapters, 1071 verses. On Friday we completed 14 verses, which means we have revised 325 to date. That’s about 30 percent of the book. We started mid-June so you can see that we’ll be at this for a while longer yet.

Would you pray that God would help us to be His faithful servants, that He would continue to give us the ability to think critically and carefully, and that He would give us joy and enthusiasm in this work?

I marvel at the wonderful truths revealed in God’s Word and at the privilege we have of communicating them in the mother tongue of over 6,000 Zapotec-speakers living in the mountains of northern Oaxaca.

Please also ask God to prepare the hearts of the Zapotecs to receive His Word. That is perhaps the most important request of all.

Now let’s see, where were we? Oh, yes! When Jesus says here in Matthew 11:5 that “the blind received their sight” does this mean that these people were blind from birth or did they become blind some time later? We have to make a decision about that before we know what form of the verb “to see” we’re going to use.

Grace Thiessen Grace Thiessen (Steinbach EMC) works in literacy and translation in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca.

Judy and Jake Bueckert

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Child soldiers of the Forces Democratique de Liberation du Rwanda (FDLF) in Pinga, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

UN Photo/Marie Frechon

Who cares about the

T

DRC?

he Democratic Republic of Congo—the name evokes images of order, freedom and security. That is not what the 60 million inhabitants of this broken land have experienced over the past ten years.

Order, peace, and security have been elusive for the citizens of this large nation. Statistics on the Congo describe rather a slow, creeping calamity for much of its population. Congo is the third weakest (read unsettled, ungoverned) country in the world, following only Somalia and Afghanistan.

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Menno Plett

An estimated 5.4 million people (equal to the population of Denmark) have died from war-related causes in Congo since 1998—the world’s deadliest documented conflict since World War Two. The vast majority died from non-violent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition— easily preventable and treatable conditions when people have access to health care and nutritious food. These diseases could be controlled were it not for the war, insecurity, and disorder which have ravaged this beautiful land for years.

The genocide in Rwanda was horrible. The current situation in Darfur (Sudan) is heartrending.

The situation in the DRC is one that few know about.

It is truly a complex humanitarian disaster, and one of the greatest tragedies of our time.

Part of the tragedy is the fact that so few people know or care about what is happening in the DR Congo. After the Congo General Elections, the THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

United Nations installed its biggest single country force in the Congo, who are engaged in trying to monitor the situation in the Congo.

Because of the size of the Congo, and the complexity of the various factions fighting in the country, as well as the restricted UN mandate, they are often able to do little more than watch.

The reality is that there are those who profit from the instability in the DRC. Mineral barons are able to exploit the rich mineral deposits in the Congo with impunity. Diamonds, cobalt, gold, and colton are mined and spirited out of the country, fueled by the insatiable world demand for such minerals, and in its wake, leaving few benefits for the country.

A homeless mother receives emergency plastic sheeting from a relief worker.

If you are a cell phone user, you UN Photo/Marie Frechon may well be benefiting from the uncontrolled and unregulated If you are a cell phone user, you of Lake Kivu and bordering colton mining that is being may well be benefiting from the Rwanda. Goma is a town that has carried out in the DRC. In the been flooded by flows of volcanic uncontrolled and unregulated DRC, key people in government lava during WWII, in 1977 and most and in the armed forces gain recently in 2002. Allow me to give colton mining that is being from payoffs, but the country, you a few glimpses of Goma and carried out in the DRC. which is largely ungoverned, North Kivu. gains little from the mineral Near Goma are four large extraction. camps for Internally Displaced People (IDP). Recent We have all heard of the incredible potential of fighting between government forces and rebel the Congo. It has massive deposits of copper, cobalt, groups in the area caused people to take refuge in colton, and diamonds. The Congo River which these camps. Although people are somewhat safer drains the Congo Basin, rolls on to the Atlantic in the camps, the effects the camps are having on Ocean, largely unharnessed. The unrelenting flow its dwellers are obvious. of the Congo River could power hydro-electric People tend to become increasingly dependent generators at seven successive sites on its way from in the camps. They have lost their dignity and their the equatorial rain forest to the Atlantic Ocean. ability to provide for themselves and their families Congo is home to one of the largest remaining in the camps. They depend almost entirely on rain forests in the world which, if properly managed, others for their survival (housing, food, water, and could produce lumber for generations to come. The medical care). rain forest is also a massive natural environmental Of late, this is becoming even more of a filter, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing challenge, as the World Food Program, the main oxygen, so crucial for the health of planet Earth. food supplier, has been forced to reduce ration size What is so sad is that not only does Congo have significantly, because of the world-wide shortage vast untapped potential, but it has regressed over in food. So, although increased grain prices may the past 40 years. The Congo River was at one time be good for Canadian producers, they are causing a major highway into the heart of the continent, increased hardship in the IDP camps of the DRC. with fleets of barges hauling freight up and down The government in the DRC is barely functioning. the river.

As an example, let’s look at the Department of With years of civil strife and government leaders Education, which would typically be responsible that put self-interest ahead of the interests of the for school teachers’ salaries. We visited a newlycountry, the river transport system, as well as much constructed school on the shores of Lake Kivu. The of the industry in the DR Congo, is in a state of school was packed with students eager to learn disrepair and much of it is not functioning. and to improve their chances for a good future. Of I just got back from a visit to Goma on the shores the 50 teachers in school, only five were receiving THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

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a government cheque of $50/month. The rest were being paid by fees collected from the parents, an example of an informal response to a breakdown of the formal education sector.

North Kivu has rich volcanic soils, adequate rainfall, and a moderate climate. It is an area that has been and can again easily be self-sufficient in food production, if only the countryside were safe for people to live in to produce food.

World Relief Canada is supporting a food security project which is being implemented by Tearfund UK to the west of North Kivu, in Maniema province.

We are currently exploring possibilities of being involved in food security and resettlement projects in North Kivu.

Alongside that initiative, we are looking at supporting a micro- finance organization that is providing small loans to women entrepreneurs and small traders in Goma, Bukavu, and Maniema.

The people of Congo are longsuffering, creative, and resilient. They have suffered much over the years and are desperately hoping for change.

Join with us to pray for change in the DR Congo.

Specifically pray that: • Leaders in the Congo will work on behalf of the people and not for themselves.

• Peace settlements will be reached with the rebel groups and that they will be respected.

• For a stable and engaging local and federal government.

As we pray, let’s also find ways to be engaged in bringing about relief, change, and hope as we assist Congolese people in their efforts at reconstructing their country and bringing about the kind of peace and security that allows people to produce food and carry out meaningful and productive lives.

Congo is a land of tremendous wealth. Let’s ensure that we do our part to enable ordinary Congolese to once more enjoy the riches of their broken land. Let’s care about the Democratic T Republic of Congo. M Menno Plett (Landmark) is Africa Program Director for World Relief Canada. He previously served with MCC in Congo, Zambia, and Sudan for 14 years; he left DR Congo in 1981. He “had not been to Goma since 1970, when I passed through there as a carefree single fella. It brought back a flood of memories. It hurts deeply to see the suffering of the people in that great and magnificent land, a land with such vast potential.”

As we pray, let’s also find ways to be engaged in bringing about relief, change, and hope as we assist Congolese people in their efforts at reconstructing their country.

Congolese women rejoice after the signing of a peace accord in Goma.

UN Photo/Marie Frechon

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THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

with our churches

SEMC youth ministry is alive and well Steinbach EMC (Man.): “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…” Isaiah 40:31a Our church is looking forward with eager anticipation to the arrival of Jason & Paige Heide!

Jason will be joining our Pastoral team

Paige and Jason Heide

as Pastor of Youth ministries as of June 1st, 2008.

Jason comes to us from Winkler Bible camp, where for the past two years he served as full-time director for Mission Point Wilderness Camp. The staff at Winkler Bible Camp, though sad to see him go, recognize that their loss is our gain for the Kingdom of Heaven. Together we give God the glory.

Soon now, our youth will be wrapping up their year at exam time, with summer vacation fast approaching. During this time their new Youth Pastor will be getting to know them, so he can plan special summer events for July and August, as well as prepare for the new program year in September.

Jason and Paige have purchased a

home in Steinbach, but they still need a buyer for their home in Morden.

Paige will be seeking employment here in town to replace the job she is leaving behind at the Agassiz Credit Union.

Paige and Jason have worked together as youth sponsors at Paige’s home church in Morden. Paige expects to continue to be at Jason’s side in ministry here at SEMC. As well as joining our staff team here at SEMC, Jason and Paige are looking forward to becoming part of this congregation, and getting involved in one of our small groups.

Let’s all be ready to welcome them upon their arrival.

Jim Reimer

Baptism at Steinbach EMC Steinbach EMC (Man.): My senses were alert as I walked into church for the June 29 evening service at Steinbach EMC. There was a sense of anticipation as the congregation blended their voices in worship to sing Victory in Jesus. The harmonious melody rang loud, crisp and clear.

There was plenty of reason to celebrate: six of our brothers and sisters in the Lord were being baptized, and one person was transferring their membership to our church.

The six baptismal candidates had chosen immersion as their form of baptism, so a baptismal tank had been set up on stage. Each person shared of their own unique battles in life, walk with God, and the point that brought them to

a desire to take this step of obedience to the Lord. We felt the sincerity of each candidate as they pronounced their commitment to Christ, and then were totally plunged backwards under the cold water.

Pastor Garry Koop shared a personal verse with each candidate.

Each candidate picked a song that was especially meaningful to them for the congregation to sing; this was lead by Pastor Kyle.

The baptism candidates and the songs of their choice were: Randy Peters (Nothing But the Blood), Jen Goertzen (Blessed be the Name), John Dyck (It is Well with my Soul), Lauren Friesen (In Christ Alone), Chelsea Klassen (That Where I Am), and Kurtis Breer (Today).

Kurtis Breer, Chelsea Klassen, Lauren Friesen, Jen Goertzen, Randy Peters, and Pastor Garry Koop.

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

A friend to many of us, Sherry Peters, transferred her membership to our church.

This evening was a strong testimony to our Lord and an encouragement to us drawing a parallel to the closing song, that we have Victory in Jesus.

Gloria Penner

Baptism at Vanderhoof Vanderhoof, BC: On March 30, 2008, we celebrated the baptism of Michael Giesbrecht and Courtney Penner.

Stephanie Peters

Pastor Brad Schneck, Michael Giesbrecht, and Courtney Penner.

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Soaking up the sun Steinbach EMC (Man).: What do crokinole (knips bratt) and sausage burgers have in common? Besides involving flat brown cylinders, both were a part of our church picnic held on June 29 at A.D. Penner Park.

It was a pleasure at this year’s picnic to have the company of the German Hope Church, a group that meets in our church Chapel on a weekly basis.

Back-dropped by the sky and hill, our church service in the park took on a new element of worship as we praised our Creator in song while viewing His beautiful creation.

This was also a great setting for the presentation of Bibles to children entering grade one. Soon these little folks will be able to read all about the creation story themselves, and I already saw one flipping happily through the colourful pictures.

With sunglasses to make the bright sun bearable, Pastor Garry Koop gave the message of Our Heavenly Father’s love for us. He told the story of a father coaching a soccer game and his absolute delight in his daughter and constant encouragement and elation in her efforts.

So, explained Garry, does our Father delight in us, His children.

After the message, everyone lined up to enjoy the delicious barbeque prepared

by hard-working members and arranged by Henry and Corinne Nickel. There were sausage burgers, hot dogs, chips, cold canned drinks, drippy watermelon, cookies and the classic ice cream cups. Everyone ate heartily.

Ernie Froese and others worked hard to arrange a day of fun activities. After lunch, the kids, with their amazing ability to eat and then leap about, immensely enjoyed the inflatable bouncer.

For those more inclined to sit, Robert Klassen offered rides in his wagon pulled by horses Samson and Commander. In his classic style, the passengers were kept busy by Robert who made them guess the weights of the two beautiful Belgians. (In case he quizzes again, they weigh around 2,200 and 2,300 pounds.)

Under the hot summer sun some people got up the gumption to get active and enjoyed the afternoon playing beach volleyball, ultimate Frisbee and soccer.

For others, there were intense crokinole games under the shade of the shelter. And, since A.D. Penner Park is

Sunday School Bible presentation

a lovely place, a stroll around the pond was also a good option. For Reegan Plett and her friend this paid off, as they were able to spy a school of catfish.

The cheerful, competitive chatter rose from the park for several hours after lunch as people enjoyed fellowshipping in many activities in God’s creation.

Another year, another church picnic, and another great time.

Adrienne Buhler

Taber gains eight members Taber, Alta.:

On July 6 we gained new members by transfer and baptism: Pastor Peter Wall, David and Anna Dyck (transfers), Abe Martens, John Reimer, Abraham Peters, Judy Guenter, Betty Sawazky, Lena Giesbrecht, and Pastor David Wiebe.

David Guenter

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THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

Leamington celebrates additions in members, leaders Leamington, Ont.:

Baptism and membership reception on September 16, 2007: Abe and Katherina Schmitt (on left, membership only), (back) David Dyck, Pete Wall, Peter Wiebe, Joseph Penner, Jason Wiebe, (front) Helen Schmitt, Melissa Penner, Susie Guenther, Paulina Wiebe, Linda Fehr, and Margaret Peters, Helen and Bill Friesen (pastoral couple, on right).

Here is our June 29, 2008, baptism and membership group: Jake and Helen Peters (membership transfer), Aaron Wiebe, Margaret Dyck, Abe Schmitt, and Dale Neufeld.

Helen and Bill Friesen (pastoral couple) stand with them.

Region 8 Women’s Day Prayer: Hearing God in the Noise of Life October 25, 2008 Prairie Rose EMC, Landmark, Man. Main speaker: Evelyn Barkman Faith stories, music, concert of worship arts, international marketplace, continental breakfast and African lunch Register through your church.

Leamington EMC celebrated the addition of three new deacon couples on January 20, 2008: John and Sara Bartsch (lay minister couple), Abe and Lena Klassen, Henry and Tina Wall, Andy and Margaret Fehr, Bill and Helen Friesen (pastoral couple). Ernest and Elsie Funk, our Region 9 pastoral couple, and Richard and Katherine Klassen, also of Region 9 (at Straffordville EMC), shared this celebration with us. May God bless these couples as they serve and minister!

discover ministry potential September 12–14, 2008 Camp Assiniboia, Headingly, Man. THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

www.emconf.ca

A weekend for discovery

13

New wine, new wineskins: MCC embarks on ambitious initiative to reshape the organization for the 21st century That there is “a fair bit of become “uncomfortable about dissatisfaction” among its who we are as a people and members and supporters over the recognize with humility that there “unwieldiness” of an organization are so many more ways than our that takes a minimum of six ways to interact.” She also noted months to approve decisions— that people need to be willing assuming all 12 boards are in to change their attitudes and agreement from the beginning— behaviours or to take anti-racism was acknowledged by Arli Klassen training. at the annual Mennonite Central While a draft equity policy Committee (MCC) binational contains percentage goals for both board meeting held June 13-14 at gender and racial membership on Conrad Grebel University College, boards and the executive, many Waterloo, Ont. from minority communities spoke To address these concerns, against such goals and instead Klassen, the fourth executive called for education of all MCC director in the past three years, communities.

Outgoing MCC binational chair Ron Dueck is congratulated by Arli Klassen, introduced “New Wine, New the third executive director he has worked with during his two-year term Wineskins,” a bold new initiative as board chair, the others being Robb Davis, who resigned in 2006, and Cash rich, people poor that she hopes will allow MCC interim Bert Lobe.

MCC has an intriguing problem. to reinvent itself for the new It does not want to have more than Photo by Ross W. Muir millennium. four months operating capital Under Klassen’s leadership and the before the Mennonite World Conference in reserve. However, due to increasing guidance of a nine-person steering assembly in Paraguay next July. levels of donations, from Canada in committee, a 25-person inquiry task Outgoing binational board chair Ron particular, and with the Canadian dollar force will address three core questions Dueck called “New Wine, New Wineskins” at par, it has over six months in reserve. with the broader MCC constituency over an “exciting new way of doing MCC.” In order to deal with this “problem,” the next year: a temporary expansion in programming • What is MCC’s purpose? has been authorized to spend nearly $8 Canada steps up to the plate • To whom is MCC accountable?

In light of a current memorandum of million over the next few years.

• How should MCC structure itself?

Despite the extra cash on hand, understanding between the 12 MCCs, that Klassen said there is a commitment allows the binational board “the freedom Ron Flaming, director of international to have the hoped-for outcomes in place to assign program administration…to program development, noted staffing one of the national MCCs,” MCC Canada figures are in decline. In 1985, there were has asked to administrate programming 496 MCC personal serving overseas, but in Iran, Cuba, Afghanistan and North only 245 today, he pointed out.

Korea.

The MCC binational executive board “We are cash rich, but people has granted MCC Canada the go-ahead in poor,” said Ryan Showalter all but Iran.

In a frank discussion, board members of Lancaster Conference. raised many questions, including one

by Carole Philips (Brethren in Christ), “I’ve noticed a trend that it who wondered how Florida BICs could is easier for parents to give continue to be involved in the Cuban programs if they are run from Canada. $1,000 than to send their own

Adrian Jacobs, MCC Ontario Aboriginal Neighbours community liaison representative, shared during the Friday meditation how, in a year of drought, Six Nations leaders had deferred the early Mennonite settlers’ grain payment for rent, but that now some are asking how the debt will be repaid. Patricia Yunginger Leaman, representing Lancaster Conference, Pa., listens intently.

Photo by Dave Rogalsky

14

Equity issues need work As if to underline the need for more work on gender and racial equity in both hiring and governance, Klassen read an apology to Kathy Jackson, recently resigned human resources director, herself a woman of colour. The apology noted that elements of racism and sexism continue in the structures of MCC. Louise Giesbrecht (MCC Canada) said in response to Klassen’s apology that everyone affiliated with MCC must

child into mission.”

“We are cash rich, but people poor,” said Ryan Showalter of Lancaster Conference. “I’ve noticed a trend that it is easier for parents to give $1,000 than to send their own child into mission. We need to be careful we don’t just send money, but send personnel.

Meetinghouse Meetinghouse is an association of Anabaptist editors in Canada and the U.S.

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

by the way Dave K. Schellenberg

T

Dealing with loneliness

he words “I’m doing well, but it’s lonesome” home and in hospitals and the infirmaries and nursingcould be repeated by many a senior who has homes; lost their life partner. I, for one, could echo the Those who are helpless and paralyzed; words.

Those whose nerves and minds have collapsed under The Psalmist describes it this way: “I watch, and am as the strain of living. a sparrow alone upon the housetop” (Psalm 102:7).

Those who are slowly recovering from a long illness.

Can you imagine being as lonely as a sparrow upon a And thus I am thankful for Barclay who reminds me housetop? Very likely the house is inhabited, but it does of these important prayer items. If you see this book for not affect the sparrow. Thus it can also be the experience sale, buy it would be my advice. of persons who have lost their spouse: “I’m doing well, The other day four of us men—all whose spouse had but it’s lonesome.” left us—went by car to the Mitchell Senior Centre for Periods of lonely feelings can come to anyone. My lunch. Going to this social was a pleasant variation in the weak spots are when I compare myself with those for day for all of us, I’m sure, something which one so often whom things seem to be going better. I have to deal with needs. this and rather think of those for whom circumstances When loneliness overtakes me, it helps to busy are different—and I’m sure there are many of those. myself. This will help to pass the time faster. Maybe it’s a A favourite devotional book with daily readings is computer game, a trip downtown (some can’t do this), or William Barclay’s More Prayers for the Plain Man (1963). a visit with other residents. Maybe I sit down with other It’s tattered and the back cover is missing, but I would residents and spend some time. Maybe I check the latest find it hard to part with. It’s a thin volume and not for news on the Internet. a whole year, but it does me good to go back to day Then, of course, for those whose eyesight allows, one when the month is over; I don’t mind the repeated there is always reading. Solomon could say, “Of making wisdom. many books there is no end” (Ecclesiastes 12:12), and The readings are usually to the point and at times how much more today! subjects are often ones neglected in prayer. I’ve I am thankful for being able to read. When I run out mentioned that I compare myself of material, there are libraries. Even with people in better circumstances. people with poor eyesight can now When loneliness overtakes Here Barclay reminds me of those in get tools which help them see print me, it helps to busy myself. opposite circumstances: enlarged. A friend dropped in the other I remember This will help to pass the time day who uses such a tool. Apparently Those who are ill and in pain at he spends much time with it. faster. Maybe it’s a computer No doubt many of you could add T much more to this short article. M game, a trip downtown, or a

visit with other residents.

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

15

missional and multiplying Ward Parkinson | wparkinson@emconf.ca

S

What does missional mean, anyway?

o what are we to make of this word missional?

Is it a buzzword used to marketing advantage? If so, it deserves but a passing interest. But I would submit that this word is worth a good look.

Missional has as its root the word mission. To be missional means to take seriously the mission of God. God sent his Son Jesus to seek and save the lost. As Jesus’ followers we have “enlisted” or taken on his mission of making disciples of all nations.

Author Ed Stetzer distinguishes between being missional and being mission-minded. He points out that a mission-minded church cares about missions, particularly overseas missions. But a missional church is one that does mission right where it is.

He writes, “Missional means adopting the posture of a missionary (his italics), learning and adapting to the culture around you while remaining biblically sound” (Planting Missional Churches, Broadman and Holman, 2006, p. 19). As Canadians, we need to think like missionaries in our own country.

As Canadians, we need to think like missionaries in our own country.

Alan Hirsch defines missional this way: “Missional church is a community of God’s people that defines itself by, and organizes its life around its real purpose of being an agent of God’s mission to the world. In other words, the church’s true and authentic organizing principle is mission” (The Forgotten Ways, Brazos Press, 2006, p. 82).

In an earlier column I drew attention to how our overall attendance in EMC churches has plateaued over the past seven years. My concern was to help us see the need to recover a missional mindset.

We can no longer assume that most Canadians will be inclined to visit a church simply because it is there.

We need to thoughtfully and deliberately think of ways to engage our Canadian culture in order to bring the gospel to those who need it.

Here’s one way to start: at your next church board meeting or membership meeting, take a half hour and imagine yourselves as missionaries sent from far away to reach your community. Brainstorm what you need to do reach these people for Jesus.

T Develop your missional muscles. M

Missional and buzz words It seems like new words crop up in our language all the time. Thirty years ago we didn’t use words like on-line, or cyberspace, or download. Surfing was what people did in the ocean, search engine was what you did when you lifted the hood, and a cell phone was a prison privilege. Even in the past five years new phrases have become common, such as texting or blogger.

In church life as well, new words arise as the times change. Some are buzzwords that capture the imagination of the consumerist North American Church. A few years ago everything had to be purpose-driven and before that natural development was the key to church growth, and before that all you needed was freedom in Christ.

If Alpha didn’t revolutionize your church, then maybe the Prayer of Jabez would. My Pentecostal upbringing taught me that virtually any teaching could be legitimized—and marketed—by calling it anointed.

While missional might be treated by some people as a buzzword, the biblical calling underlying remains our proper focus.

Ward Parkinson

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THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

Convention 2008

Praise team members were Gina Penner, Michelle Plett, Allen Penner (hidden, on drums), Andrew Friesen, Mark Reimer, and Brenda Friesen (not pictured).

Visiting in the foyer after a session.

Carl Loewen (left) and Benny and Esther Goertzen (right) were among missionaries who made presentations. Carl serves as an EMC associate missionary in the Philippines.

Benny and Esther Goertzen serve as EMC administered missionaries in Paraguay.

Pastor Gary Martens welcomed EMCers on behalf of Steinbach Mennonite Church. Ed Peters (EFC Steinbach) is in the background.

Worship was an integral part of the weekend.

(Photos by Rebecca Buhler)

Missionaries for EMC-administered ďŹ elds came on stage and received prayer during the Sunday morning session.

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

17

PLBC benefits from MDS Under the bright blue sky at La Crete, Alta., MDS youth volunteers are pitching in to build eight cabins for Pine Lodge Bible Camp.

Pine Lodge Bible Camp, nestled in the bush on a former golf course, has only two small cabins and a few tents to shelter 60 to 70 weekly campers. The camp is sponsored

by Bergthaler and Evangelical Mennonite Conference churches of the La Crete area.

Although the cabins are not completed, excited campers already sleep in them overnight, pulling out belongings in the morning to allow MDS volunteers Cooks Sandra Friesen, Crystal Friesen, and Maria Kornelsen fill to continue their work. balloons for coffee break fun.

An African proverb states “it takes a community to raise a child,” and at the progress, telling us that five to 10 in La Crete it is exciting to see a large years of development is being performed in one month. community build eight cabins.

He sees MDS’s involvement as more Youth groups from Iowa, Bergthaler churches in Saskatchewan, Coaldale than just building cabins. “MDS has Mennonite (Alta.), and First Mennonite helped draw people’s attention to the (Edmonton) built the insulated cabins in camp,” he says, “and its vision of reaching a month-long building blitz from July 14 out to children, youth, and families in the La Crete area.” to August 9.

Camp board members, local Dick Loewen, Pine Lodge’s director, sees MDS’s involvement as God sent and individuals, businesses, and churches a big jump start for a camp only in its donated money and materials for the third summer of operation. He is amazed cabins; they assisted MDS by paying costs for lodging, food, and fuel for the MDS camp that housed the volunteers.

When Harold Friesen, long-time MDS volunteer from Abbeydale Christian Fellowship (Calgary) and Peter Goertzen, a local MDS board member, picked up gas for the generators and vehicles, they were asked what the gas was for. When they explained it was for the MDS project at Pine Lodge, the owner told them he would cover Jean Wolff and daughter Anna Marie hard at work. the costs. There are many such stories.

Youth from Bergthaler and EMC churches in La Crete area also got involved; they hosted the MDS youth groups to soccer, volleyball, campfires, singing, and a devotional on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

God works in amazing ways and this has been evident as many people have given time, money and prayers to build eight cabins in four weeks. To God be the glory!

Lois Nikkel, MDS Cabin interior

18

coming events September 12–14 Discover Your Ministry Potential Workshop to discover how your gifts can be used to build God’s Kingdon See ad on p. 13

September 17–19 Winnipeg Prophecy Conference Victoria Inn Winnipeg, Man. 204-786-4801 or 204-888-7270 www.wpgpc.org

September 26–27 MCC Relief Sale Keystone Centre Brandon, Man. 204-726-5116 mcc.org/manitoba

October 3–5 Take and Eat A conference on food and creation care Providence College and Seminary Otterburne, Man. takeandeat@prov.ca www.prov.ca

October 9–10 Mennonites and Money: Wealth and Poverty in the Past and Present Keynote: Dr. James Urry University of Winnipeg Winnipeg, Man. r.loewen@uwinnipeg.ca mennonitestudies.uwinnipeg.ca/ events

October 17–19 TRU08: EMC National Youth Leaders’ Retreat Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre Pinawa, Man. 204-326-6401 or greimer@emconf.ca

October 25 Region 8 Women’s Day Prayer: Hearing God in the Noise of Life See ad on p. 13

November 29–December 1 EMC Ministerial Retreat Celebrating the Call of God in Ministry See ad on p. 6

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

shoulder tapping The EMC seeks a full-time archivist for a oneyear term position 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.

A full job description and list of qualifications are available upon request.

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 General Secretary Tim Dyck at tdyck@emconf.ca or 204-326-6401.

Fuller text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm

Christ to youth and their families dealing with poverty and related issues.

Contact: Shonet, ICYA, 418 Aberdeen Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2W 1V7; 204-582-8779; (fax) 204582-4729; shonet@icya.ca.

Mennonite Foundation of Canada seeks a fulltime stewardship consultant in its Abbotsford, B.C., office. This person will be responsible to provide charitable gift and estate planning services and to promote biblical stewardship of financial resources in our constituent churches in British Columbia.

Submit resumes to Erwin Warkentin, General Manager, 12-1325 Markham Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6; 1-800-772-3257; fax 204-488-1986; e-mail ewarkentin@mennofoundation.ca; www. mennofoundation.ca.

worship coordination, leadership development, and outreach?

Do you have an Anabaptist understanding and training of the Bible, love for people, love for God and a passion for ministry in a church setting? Or do you know someone who does? Contact Dan Rempel or Abe Harms at Aylmer EMMC in Ontario (serve@aemmc.ca). Check out our vision at www. aemmc.ca.

Altona EMMC in southern Manitoba seeks a lead pastor. It has about 500 members and three pastors. The role includes inspiring the spiritual growth of congregation, staff, and leaders through biblical teaching, mentoring, and personal relationships. Please send resumes to Frank Friesen, pastoral search committee chairperson, at frankf@mts.net.

Christian Fellowship Church (EMC), located in the village of Birch River, Man., seeks a full-time pastor to begin early in 2009. For information or to submit a resume and names of three references, contact Harold Thiessen, Elders Board Chair, at 204-238-4443 or RR1, Bowsman, MB R0L 0H0.

Camp Moose Lake, near Sprague, Man., requires for fall 2008: a full-time camp manager and a halftime food services coordinator. Contact director of camping ministries, Mennonite Church Manitoba at 204-895-2267 or camps@mennochurch.mb.ca.

TEAM in South Africa/Swaziland seeks a web page designer and host. No relocation necessary to serve the King (www.teamsouthafrica.20m.com.).

Apply to Joe Reimer, TEAM ministry area leader, joereim@wetlands.co.za.

Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC), located in Morris, Man., is looking for a full-time pastor for a congregation of about 120. Previous pastoral experience and leadership abilities are assets. For job description and information, please call Brian Klassen at 204-746-8102.

Camp Cedarwood, a Youth for Christ camp near Lac du Bonnet, Man., seeks year-round head cook, food preparation staff, and maintenance staff to respond to “explosive growth.” Housing, utilities, and most food provided. Housing available for couples and families. Contact Brad Plett at 204-345-8529 or brad@yfcwinnipeg.ca

MFC seeks a second full-time stewardship consultant to work in its Calgary, Alta., office. This person will be responsible to provide charitable gift and estate planning services and to promote biblical stewardship of financial resources in our constituency churches in Alberta.

The successful candidate will communicate effectively with individuals and in public presentations; have a good understanding of charitable gift and estate planning; be creative, organized, and self-motivated; support and incorporate MFC’s stewardship mission in personal life; be willing and able to contribute as part of an inter-dependent staff team.

The position will open on January 1, 2009.

Processing of applications will begin immediately and continue until the mission is filled. Submit resumes to Erwin Warkentin, General Manager, 12-1325 Markham Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6, Ph. 800-772-3257, fax 204-488-1986, e-mail ewarkentin@mennofoundation.ca, web www. mennofoundation.ca.

Hillside Christian Fellowship (EMC) seeks a pastor to serve in full-time ministry with a parttime 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.

Contact Johnny Wieler at 780-928-3880 or email AVLL@siscanada.ca.

Reserve Fellowship Chapel (EMC), located in Sioux Valley (west-central Man.), seeks a fulltime pastoral couple to serve the church and to develop long-term relationships with people of the community. Direct inquiries to church planting coordinator Ward Parkinson, 204-326-6401, e-mail: wparkinson@emconf.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. Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306595-2074. E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship.com.

Leamington EMC, in southern Ontario, seeks a full-time youth pastor to work with our junior and senior youth groups. Contact Abe Klassen, board chairman, at 519-816-1840 or abek@ masterconveyors.com; or Danny Dick, ministerial chair, at 519-326-4584.

Steinbach Bible College and Steinbach Christian High School invite applications for a full-time evening custodian needed for September.

Application form and job description are available at SBC’s reception desk (204-326-6451).

Inner City Youth Alive seeks these full-time workers: operations manager, meals program coordinator, and camp director.

ICYA is a Christian organization located in the North End of Winnipeg, Man. For over 21 years we have been bringing hope and a future through

THE MESSENGER August 20, 2008

Would you like to adopt a horse? Camp Assiniboia (Headingley, Man.) is offering its horses to caring homes for September to April. These are well-mannered horses, suitable for children and youth. Tack included. For information contact David Hogue, 204-864-2159 or campa@prairie-sky. com.

Expand your world; teach in Lithuania! LCC International University seeks English language teachers for our new Intensive English Program.

Applicants should have ESL or English teaching experience and a MA degree in education, applied linguistics, or English. Eager college bound students come from seven different countries.

We provide housing, travel stipend, curriculum materials, resources, orientation, a supportive Christian environment, and much more. Contact Cathy Bauer (opportunities@lcc.lt) or check our web site (www.lcc.lt).

Good busy people wanted. We’re adding staff to our great team. We’re a vibrant church with many young families, 500-plus attendees, three services, two languages and growing.

Can you contribute long-term or interim, full-time or part-time, sharing in roles of administrative leadership, preaching/teaching,

CAmp Assiniboia, Headingley, Man., requires a food service assistant volunteer for a one-year term.

Explore interests, develop skills in food service, custodial, enjoy Christian camp setting. Stipend, loding, partial food provided. Contact manager at 204-864-2159 or campa@prairie-sky.com. It also has openings for short-term volunteers (one to four months) with skills in food service, maintenance, custodial, or hosting who would enjoy serving in a Christian camp setting. Lodging (or RV pad) and partial food provided.

Riding for mental health September 6, 2008 Ride 32 kms of the Trans Canada Trail through the scenic Pembina Hills south of Morden, Man. Full support, T-shirt, prizes and a barbeque with $20 registration. Register individually or as a team. All pledged proceeds in support of Eden Health Care Services mental health recovery programs. Call 204-325-5355 or toll-free at 1-866-895-2919 for information or register online at www.edenhealth.mb.ca.

19

KIDS’

corner Loreena Thiessen

Puff balls and baby dinosaurs

Look way up into the sky.

Do you see clouds? What is their shape? Are they puffy balls like soft cotton? These are good weather clouds. If you look long enough they will change shape.

L

ook around. Everywhere you will see shapes and colours. What has a square or a rectangle shape in your room? What colours do you see?

Then look outside. Houses are shaped like boxes. Some are tall and square; others are long and rectangular. Windows are squares and rectangles too. Sometimes they are round or a half circle.

The flowers next to your house and in your garden have different shapes too. Some flowers have five heart-shaped petals. Others have edges that are feathery and grow on long stems. Some flowers come in the shape of a large ball made up of many small flowers. Some are shaped like a bell.

Now look way up into the sky. Do you see clouds?

What is their shape? Are they puffy balls like soft cotton? These are good weather clouds. If you look long enough they will change shape. Now they look like large floating animals, a baby dinosaur or a lion with a hairy mane.

Sometimes clouds are not white and puffy but thick and dark, filled with water droplets or ice crystals that could quickly fall as rain or hail. They are so thick that sunlight cannot shine through them, so they are not white but grey.

What about birds? Can you see a robin with a sleek red breast, or a sparrow with stripes down its back?

Maybe a gold and black oriole has its nest in your backyard or a rosy finch may be eating seeds at the bird feeder.

Trees have different shapes too. Some are tall and slender with pointy tips reaching to the sky that sway in the wind. Other trees have branches like fingers spread out in different directions. Each tree

PAGE 20

has leaves that are unique for its kind. The leaf’s shape is inherited from its parent tree just like you may have blue eyes and blond hair like your parents.

God has designed all of nature, like flowers, trees and the clouds. Psalm 19:1 says that in the sky and in T nature we see God’s greatness in what He has made. M

Activity Collect different types of leaves. Compare their shape, points, and size.

(Caution: Pick up only fallen leaves. Do not pick them off a living tree. Do not pick from a poisonous plant; take an adult with you to be sure.)

Splatter Painting: You need: several different types of leaves, white or colored paper, tempera or poster paints, paint brushes.

Arrange the leaves on paper. Dip the paintbrush in poster paint and splatter the paint over the leaves and their edges to make the outline of each leaf.

Let the paint dry (it doesn’t have to be totally dry) then carefully peel each leaf off the paper. You will have leaf shapes in different colours.

Display.

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