The Messenger Vol. 46 No. 18 October 22, 2008

THE

MESSENGER

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

volume 46, number 18 October 22, 2008

Mexico

seeing is truly believing

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

editorials

W

What would you do?

hat would you do if: • Your country was being invaded and your government asked you to supply goods or money to help the war effort?

• Local mayors whipped a man for wronging a church member?

• The church around you seemed compromising?

• The government was taking away a promised privilege involving religious freedom?

Klaas Reimer faced this situation in 19th century Russia.

The war was caused by Napoleon’s invasion of Russia; Russia asked Mennonites to contribute with goods to oppose Bonaparte.

Some will see the EMC history as important; others won’t. What is important? That the celebration in 2012 be a Christ-centred, inclusive event that helps us live faithfully today.

A

All Saints’ Day and the Boxer Rebellion

t the turn of the 20th century, an anti-western, anti-Christian sentiment exploded in China following a decree by the Empress on June 24, 1900, to expel the “foreign devils” (OMF

website).

Thousands of Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox converts were killed by the Righteous and Harmonious Fists (the Boxers), a religious and cultural group; many missionaries were killed, including about 180 Protestants.

Margaret E. Smith was a Christian from Ontario who served under China Inland Mission (now Overseas Missionary Fellowship); she died in the northern Shanxi Province on July 12, 1900. CIM lost 58 workers and 21 children.

An eight-nation military force intervened on July 27, the Boxers were driven out of Beijing by August 14, and a peace treaty signed on September 7, 1901 (OMF website).

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 Unpublished material is Terry M. Smith Rebecca Buhler not returned except by request.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. 20 – November 19 Main St, Steinbach, Man. (copy due November 7)

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On the local level, Reimer learned of the man’s whipping.

Within the larger Mennonite church, he saw compromise and worldliness; seeing it earlier in Prussia had motivated him to move to Russia.

He and a few others began to meet separately in 1812.

Not surprisingly, they became known as the Small Church (Kleine Gemeinde).

In the 1870s the Russian government decided it would rescind the Mennonite privilege of non-involvement in military service. Most Kleine Gemeinde families left for Canada; others went to the United States.

In 2012 the EMC (formerly Kleine Gemeinde) will celebrate its 200th anniversary. Our General Board is giving leadership in planning for it.

All EMCers are connected through Christ, but some will see the EMC history as important, while others won’t.

What is important? That the celebration in 2012 be a Christ-centred, inclusive event that, by looking at the past T and future, helps us live faithfully today. M Terry M. Smith

The Boxer Rebellion was a complicated event: a religious and cultural response to a mixture of foreign colonialism and Christ, two Opium Wars and lopsided treaties, western and eastern interests, and power-brokers within and outside of China.

Today it’s said that China downplays the deaths of Christians during the Rebellion; just as likely, some Christians today present a confused witness through a neo-colonial Christ.

Margaret E. Smith traveled far to serve Christ, and her martyrdom bears remembering.

There were many martyrs in the 20th century, each remembered for reasons both profound and personal.

All Saints’ Day is on October 26. In a Protestant manner, on that day I will remember Margaret E. Smith, a Christian martyr, my elder sister by faith, and a relative T by ancestry. 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.

THE MESSENGER is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press.

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THE

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 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 October 22, 2008

MCC dialogues toward peace with Iran Strong opinions have been expressed over Mennonite Central Committee’s participation in the September 25 dinner and dialogue that included Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Some news media spread incorrect information.

Our goal was respectful, peace-building dialogue, not to honour the president. We were drawing on the spiritual roots that sustained our persecuted ancestors and on Jesus’ example.

In every situation, we look to the light of Christ to lead us.

MCC has a mandate to carry out relief, development, and peace work by churches in Canada and the United States. Together we hold to the “peace position,” a commitment to obey Jesus by loving one’s enemies and responding to aggression with positive action. Our work in Iran, including these meetings, focuses on building bridges of peace between countries that see each other as enemies.

MCC’s meetings with President Ahmadinejad grew out of nearly 20 years of experience and trusting relationships

We asked President Ahmadinejad to allow Iranians to make their own choices as to which religion they will follow. We were able to say this to him because of this meeting.

EM Cup Hockey Tournament November 7–9, 2008 Teams contact Colin Loewen, caloewen@mts.net or 204-346-1380.

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

him. It is difficult to assess the long-term impact, but several things stand out.

First, we better understand each other’s viewpoints. President Ahmadinejad knows that MCC believes the Holocaust is an historical fact and a great tragedy of the 20th century and that we want him to change the way he talks about it. He knows that MCC is concerned about the situation for Palestinians but also about his rhetoric regarding the State of Israel. He knows that we believe that any solution must provide A lit oil lamp at the Sepember 25 dinner and dialogue. peace with justice for all.

Second, we believe that the president’s with Iranians.

Some suggest that MCC should not public comments have moderated meet with such a controversial political somewhat. When challenged about leader. On balance, the counsel has been “wiping Israel off the map,” Ahmadinejad to continue the conversations. Leaders has said that he is not talking about a believe it is important for the church to military solution. Rather, he says he supports the “one-state” solution, in talk about peacemaking in our world.

U.S. government officials have which Israelis and Palestinians elect a encouraged MCC to continue the dialogue. single government to represent both The U.S. has not had diplomatic relations peoples.

Third, the circle of conversation has with Iran for nearly 30 years and teeters on the brink of military action against it. expanded to include, for the first time, The consequences of not talking seem several Jewish representatives and to greatly outweigh its risks. Relations government policymakers.

Still, our conversations sometimes between Canada and Iran also have been feel like ships passing in the night. Both deteriorating.

MCC has held four meetings with participants in the dialogue seem to see President Ahmadinejad, all initiated by themselves as “prophets” to the other.

We are greatly troubled by reports of increased religious persecution and expanded use of the death penalty Bible Tour March 29–April 7 to punish converts in Iran. We asked Have you wanted to see the President Ahmadinejad to allow Iranians land of the Bible up close and to make their own choices as to which personal? Consider the Israel 2009 religion they will follow. We were able to Biblical Discovery Tour that is being say this to him because of this meeting. planned for March 29–April 7, 2009.

We too can be skeptical about the meetings’ value, but when doors are Hosted by Pastor Dale Dueck opened for us to be agents of Christ’s (Winkler EMMC), you will experience peace, we cannot step away. God calls us many sites read about in the to engage those with whom we disagree.

Scriptures.

Please pray that MCC may be wise in Tour base price of $2,749 CAD the way of Christ and foolish in the way includes non-stop airfare from of the world, as we follow Christ’s light Toronto to Tel Aviv return, transfers toward peace with Iran. and assistance upon arrival, hotel, two Arli Klassen and Daryl Byler meals daily, modern air-conditioned tour bus, admission to various sites.

Arli Klassen is MCC executive director There are incidental tour costs which and Daryl Byler is MCC representative for can be explained when you call Jordan, Iran, Iraq, and Palestine. This article for information (204-325-7667 or has been condensed. More information is pastordale-wemmc@mts.net). available at mcc.org.

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Mexico

seeing is truly believing Pastor Earl and Caroline Unger

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fter my being nearly ten years at Stony Brook Fellowship, we all agreed it was time for me to have a sabbatical. As part of this threemonth rest break, our church offered to send my wife and me on a mission exposure trip to Mexico.

The main purpose of this trip was to visit our adopted missionary Elma Janzen who works under the EMC Board of Missions in the Nuevo Pacto Church in Juarez, Mexico. This proved to be a wonderful and eye-opening experience.

To provide a proper context to our excursion, it may help to explain a little about our mission work in Mexico. For many years EMC has had missionaries working in Mexico, One of the first things primarily in the State of we had to learn in our Chihuahua, which is just south of El Paso, Texas. visit was to refer to Their work has centred all of these churches, on reaching both Spanish and German speaking Spanish or German, as people and quite a Mennonite. number of churches have been established. I’m 4

embarrassed to admit this, but one of the first things we had to learn in our visit was to refer to all of these churches, Spanish or German, as Mennonite.

These Mennonite churches are divided into separate Spanish and German conferences. The German conference made up of seven churches is known as the Conferencia Misionera Evangélica (Evangelical Missionary Conference) and the Spanish conference, consisting of 17 churches and preaching points, is called the Conferencia Evangélica Menonita de México (Mexico Evangelical Mennonite Conference).

When you visit the area the need for this separation becomes evident as there are many cultural and linguistic differences.

German churches Let me first describe our visit with German churches. There are approximately 50,000 German Mennonites living in and around the city of Cuauhtémoc. They moved to this area over the past century, coming primarily from Canada and Europe.

Some were fleeing oppression in Europe, but most came from Canada hoping to be able to live out their way of life unrestricted by government and worldly influences.

They have organized themselves into colonies THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

The work among German Mennonites is slow and difficult, but progress is being made. (somewhat like our municipalities) with numerous small settlements called campos. With some exceptions, these people live a conservative agrarian lifestyle and, regrettably, often are dominated by legalism.

Economically, the colonies seem to be prospering. We saw fields filled with wonderful crops of corn ready to harvest, and the highway leading into Cuauhtémoc is lined with large businesses and industries run by local Mennonites.

We even saw a hockey rink/mall with artificial ice.

I guess some of them, at least, haven’t totally lost their Canadian roots.

We were able to visit with EMC missionaries John and Lorna Wall, who work half-time as pastors of the Hillside Gospel Church at Los Jagueyes and halftime in an advisory role with the CME. They served as tour guides around the colonies.

We met many interesting people and saw their church buildings. We also viewed Steinreich Bible School, which is doing a great job providing biblical and theological training in Low German.

Near Cuauhtémoc we were allowed to visit the Luz En Mi Camino Rehabilitation Centre that offers treatment for alcohol and drug addiction. This, sadly, is a pressing need in the area. Presently this centre only treats German-speaking men but additions to the facility are nearly complete so they will be able to treat women and Spanish-speaking men as well.

The work among German Mennonites is slow and difficult, but progress is being made. While we were there we had the opportunity of attending one of a series of evangelistic meetings that were being conducted on the colonies featuring Walter Neufeld, an evangelist from Paraguay.

These services were being held on non-church sites so that more of the Old Colony Mennonites would be willing to attend. There was a large attendance the night we were there and the message was very good (as much of the Low German as I could understand).

Spanish churches Now let me describe our visit among the Spanish churches. We connected with Elma Janzen in Juarez THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

and were able to attend a worship service at the Nuevo Pacto Church (New Covenant Church).

Juarez, a city of about two million people, is just over the Rio Grande River from El Paso. Being a border city with the United States is a mixed blessing. Many factories have been established, which provide eagerly sought after jobs, but there is also more crime, violence, and insecurity due mostly to escalating drug wars between rival drug cartels.

Job security is a huge problem. For example, while we were in Mexico, Carlos Martinez, the pastor at Nuevo Pacto Church, lost his job as a jeweler because his boss, who owns a number of stores, decided to close his stores after they had been repeatedly robbed.

Carlos, himself, was robbed and nearly killed as he made his way to making a bank deposit. Deaths by suicide or murder seem to touch most families.

Other cities where we have Spanish churches are Chihuahua City and Cuauhtémoc. Churches and preaching points have been started in a number of smaller communities as well. We were not able to visit Chihuahua City, but were fortunate to visit with Alvira Friesen who works in Cuauhtémoc. There are two Spanish churches in this city and they are working to establish a third. (continued p. 6)

Churches and preaching points have been started in a number of smaller communities (including this one in Santo Tomás).

(Photos, including cover, by Ungers and other sources.)

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Young people people to this point. Inside I wept for The highlight of our trip was the them, but more for us.

We were blessed five days we spent at the retreat When we made plans to visit beyond measure to centre at Santo Tomás helping Mexico we thought it would be a with the Spanish youth camp. The good experience for us, but nothing see the earnestness camp consisted of sessions, games, anyone could have said before we with which youth breakout groups, two concerts (and left could have prepared us for the worshipped God. eating, of course). spiritual impact this experience has We were blessed beyond measure had on our lives. We will be forever to see the earnestness with which changed. youth worshipped God. In Canada we are not For us mission work is no longer a mere theory or accustomed to our young people crying out to God a number in a budget, but faces, names, and places. (literally), seeking God’s forgiveness and humbly There is a powerful work of God going on among our Mexican churches that, for us, largely had remained prostrating themselves on the floor in order to do so.

We saw young people who were serious about a secret. But no more! their faith and desperate to see God work in So just like in Acts 4 when Peter said to the Jewish authorities after he was arrested, “We their lives and in their country. I guess turmoil, cannot help speaking about what we have seen and insecurity, financial struggles, and pain can drive heard,” we cannot remain silent about what we have seen and heard in Mexico.

We would encourage more pastors and EMC congregants to go and see first hand what God is T doing in Mexico. We could learn a lot. M Pastoral couple Caroline and Earl Unger (seen here with a friend) serve within Stony Brook Fellowship in Steinbach, Man.

For us mission work is no longer a mere theory or a number in a budget, but faces, names, and places.

Where in the world are you going?

Some areas where our workers serve: Austria Canada France Kosovo Mexico Nicaragua Paraguay South Africa

Brazil Central Asia Germany Lesotho Namibia North Africa Peru Spain

Burkina Faso Ethiopia Kenya Madagascar Netherlands Papua New Guinea Philippines United States

Free!

A new issue of Theodidaktos: Journal for EMC theology and education is available from the Conference office 204-326-6401 tsmith@emconf.ca

Copies of Follow Me are still available View a sample chapter at www.emconf.ca/publications.htm

Got itchy feet?

Contact: Tim Dyck, General Secretary Board of Missions Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 204-326-6401, tdyck@emconf.ca

Not just another mission!

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To order copies contact Rebecca Buhler 204-326-6401 or rbuhler@emconf.ca.

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

with our missionaries Mexico

Thieves break in, but our Father is greater!

The day is really dying in the west, but those of us who went to prayer meeting need a little time to calm down.

Upon arriving at the church we found that thieves had cut a hole in the roof where the cooling pipes are. They got in and stole about three thousand dollars worth of musical instruments— microphones, keyboard and speakers, and the list goes on. The drums were spared because they didn’t fit the hole.

Three years ago the same type robbery cleaned out the church of every musical instrument they had. It has taken a long time and a lot of hard work to recover from that incident.

What makes this even more difficult at this time is that La Red Band has commitments for three concerts in October and some for future dates. For the church to recover all of this for the first concert on October 11 will be a miracle. But then we have a wonderful God and Father who specializes in miracles.

Will you please pray with us that we will not be discouraged? May we take heart and see this as God’s opportunity to show us how powerful He is at work in this, that our faith will grow, and we will witness the demonstration of His power in this and many unknown opportunities yet to come.

We know that the enemy comes only to kill, steal, and destroy and does not have a human face.

Praise God for His promise that in all these things we can be more than

conquerors. The Lord will frustrate the plans of the wicked, while the righteous shall prosper, sowing after the Spirit and reaping for eternity.

Thank you for your prayers.

Elma Janzen

Will you please pray with us?

May we take heart and see this as God’s opportunity to show us how powerful He is at work in this, and we will witness the demonstration of His power.

Elma Janzen (La Crete) is involved in church planting.

Project Builders explores loans that matter The amount of money you spent on your family’s last restaurant meal could be enough to help many people in the Two-Thirds World start up or expand their business.

Because of that, Project Builders is opening the door to micro-financing with caution, but also excitement. We see its potential in modeling what it means to be compassionate followers of Christ.

In the past several years the Project Builders executive and membership has considered adding micro-finance to our program. Till now, we’ve provided financial help mostly for capital building projects within EMC’s missions program worldwide.

Micro-finance and micro-loans are seen, by mission and secular

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

agencies alike, as tremendous tools to give opportunity and hope to poor, disenfranchised people of the world.

Project Builders has several priorities: 1. To work with a well respected agency with expertise in the field of micro-finance.

2. To work in areas and with people with whom EMC has an historical and ministry connection. (With well over 100 mission workers serving around the globe, we connect with many people who need basic help.)

3. To tie this closely to the ultimate goal of drawing people to Christ and church growth. In most Asian and Middle Eastern countries this needs to be done in sensitive and

acceptable ways, but we want the gospel of Jesus Christ to be evident and available to people.

The executive dialogued with several organizations, including MEDA. Through this we have seen different strategies and opportunities open for us in the field of micro-finance.

We have met with some of our mission workers in Central Asia, Burkina Faso, and Paraguay, and have sensed enthusiasm to work with us to develop a plan for microfinancing.

For information about becoming part of Project Builders go to www. projectbuilders.ca.

Len Barkman Len Barkman works part-time for Project Builders.

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stewardship today Dori Zerbe Cornelsen

I

Joy: A call not to be taken lightly

do not regularly frequent the inspirational reading section of my local bookstore, but a quote from one of its bestselling authors, Leo Buscaglia, recently caught my eye: “Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy.”

Mennonite Foundation of Canada has adopted three words to describe and guide its ministry into the future: Faithful Joyful Giving.

My experience in the Mennonite context is that we are earnest about being faithful and sincere in our giving, but we might have some discomfort with being joyful.

Perhaps my experience is sullied by family lore of a Thanksgiving gathering with relatives where games, good food, and a significant amount of laughter were shared.

Only, this seemed to distress a great aunt who intoned with warning in her accented voice, “Thanksgiving Day and you are having so much fun!”

I wonder what messages formed my aging aunt’s view that gratitude was best expressed in austerity. It is hard to imagine that this was what the Apostle Paul had in mind when he appealed to the Christians of Philippi, saying, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

The call to let go of worry in favour of joy reminds us that our grasping for control does little in helping us to achieve our goals.

Paul goes on to make a connection between joy and worry, calling on believers to let go of their anxiety. As an antidote to being anxious, he encourages readers to present requests to God, with thanksgiving, which he says results in the experience of peace beyond understanding.

Why is it that, in this attitude at least, Leo Buscaglia seems to have more in common with the Apostle Paul than does my great aunt?

In our material lives, there are many things that can cause anxiety—employment, taxes, saving for retirement or children’s education, debt, investments in the stock market.

The counsel Paul offers does not mean that we can appeal to a “quick-fix” God who will make everything comfortable for us. Rather, the call to let go of worry in favour of joy reminds us that our grasping for control does little in helping us to achieve our goals.

Giving up control puts us back in our place. Or, as one person puts it, “For peace of mind, resign as general manager of the universe.”

Perhaps my great aunt came to believe that expressing gratitude with joy was frivolous and superficial because she grew up in tremendously challenging circumstances.

But given that Paul wrote these words while imprisoned and awaiting trial, his call to rejoice cannot be taken lightly.

Expressing joy is no escape hatch for him nor does he recommend disengagement from our responsibilities in the material world because “God will take care of us.”

Openness and honesty in prayer, the discipline of bringing our requests to God, is integral to tapping into the deep well of joy. Opening ourselves to God by its very nature challenges our impulse to be in control.

We cannot worry away the sorrows of tomorrow, but T we can respond to God with the energy of joy today. M

For stewardship education and services, contact your nearest Mennonite Foundation of Canada office: Abbotsford—Ed Wedel, 888-212-8608; Calgary— Gary Sawatzky, 877-717-0708; Kitchener—Sherri Grosz, Mike Strathdee, 888-212-7759; Niagara— Darren Pries-Klassen, 888-212-8731; Winnipeg— Edwin Friesen, Dori Zerbe Cornelsen, 800-772-3257.

Stewardship consultant Edwin Friesen is currently unavailable for consultation. On October 9 he underwent emergency heart surgery at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg, Man. As of this writing (Oct. 16) he remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit.

Please pray for Edwin, his wife Lil, and their family.

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THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

with our churches

Urgency to get building completed Picture Butte, Man.: We praise God for how he is continuing to build His church here in Picture Butte. Not only are we growing in membership, but our building is getting closer and closer to completion.

We praise God for the support we have received from several of our EM churches. This type of help spurs us on and gives us much encouragement.

We have not been able to start our Sunday School program this fall as the space we were using has been rented by the town to someone else. We are thankful that we are still able to have our worship service at the Community Centre.

We sense an urgency to get our building completed; we have many children who are eagerly waiting for Sunday School to start.

The Lord willing, the necessary funds will come and the contractor will find time to complete our building so that we can move in soon. We appreciate your prayers on behalf of our church family.

Caroline Krahn

We praise God for the help of fellow EM churches. This is a group from the Abbeydale Christian Fellowship in Calgary, Alta., who came to help us put up drywall one weekend.

Membership reception in Spring 2008: Helena and Abe Martens, Ben and Tina Neufeld, Susie and Peter Martens, Pastor Abe Bueckert.

Baptism in June 2008: Martin Penner (Jr.), Willie Wall, Johnny Wall, Agatha Wall, Anna and Pastor Abe Bueckert.

Looking for a vacation with a purpose?

Join a volunteer Nicaragua missions exposure/work team to assist in building projects: Gethsemane Orphanage dormitory and Los Castillos Church. Visit churches and experience the culture, sights, and hospitality of Nicaragua.

2009 Projected dates: January 21–February 4, February 17–March 3.

Team Coordinators: Lester and Darlene Olfert.

For cost information and application forms, contact Lester Olfert, Action International Ministries, 9 Hickory St, Steinbach, MB R5G 0G6; 204-326-7720; darlesolfert@shaw.ca.

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

Membership reception in June 2008: Cornelius and Anna Neufeld, Peter and Helena Reimer, Herman and Maria Peters, Jared and Dwylla Zacharias, Peter and Trudy Klassen, Peter and Eva Wiebe.

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Mennville experiences joy and sadness Mennville, Man.: On June 22 our church doors remained closed and we all headed to Beaver Creek Bible Camp for a baptismal service with four candidates.

Our sympathy goes out to Roger and Anita Frisen, and their family, in the tragic death of their 18-year-old daughter and sister Katelyn. She was a beautiful young woman who had made a big impact on the people around her. She will be remembered and sadly missed by many. The funeral was held on July 30 in the Riverton Hall, with burial at Mennville cemetery.

On August 17 we all crowded into what shade our church building had to offer, and enjoyed a potluck barbeque. Lunch was followed by welcome water games, which extended to some of the adults as well.

Luella Brandt

On June 22 Mennville gained two members by transfer: Chantal (Kovacs) Barkman and Andrew Kaltek.

Pastor Terry Dueck stands with candidates Colton Dueck, Michael Kovacs, Bethany Friesen, and Kristinn Gislason, who were baptized on June 22.

Fighting for the heart of God and others Lorette, Man.: The Prairie Grove Fellowship men’s retreat was held at Camp Cedarwood this year, October 3–5.

Though the men have enjoyed wilderness fishing trips before, this was the first year the men got together for a weekend that included intense teaching and learning.

During the first session they learned about their design as God’s image as warriors and faced their insecurities: “Do I have what it takes?” One man shared his story of his search for identity. The session concluded with the men praying the Father’s blessing over each other.

During the second session they analyzed their “kneeology”—how to practically relate to God and to acknowl-

edge the lies that stands in the way of this relationship.

The Doug Weiss video Dealing with Sexual Immorality was the focus of the third session. One of the men shared his story of sexual brokenness and the group broke into small groups to interact and pray.

I asked Pastor Darnell for his take on the retreat. He said, “It was great. The weather was excellent, and much hearty laughter was enjoyed throughout the weekend. A highlight for many of the men on Saturday afternoon was fun on the climbing wall.

“But best of all, God showed up in our sessions. My carefully crafted PowerPoint presentations got left in the dust.”

Jolyn Braun

Potluck barbeque

EMC Ministerial Retreat November 29–December 1, 2008

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

Prairie Grove Fellowship men at their fall retreat: (front) Pastor Darnell Plett, John Pflueger, Dave Bradley, Paul Dueck, Hector Gallardo, Sid Koop, (back) John Regehr, Ken Penner, Glenn Brandt, Wes Penner, Chris Ireland, Tim Field, and Edmer Reimer.

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THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

A God-ordained trip to Mexico Anola, Man.: In August, the Anola Fellowship Chapel youth group sent a team of students and adults to Ensenada, Baja, Mexico. There we (yes, me too!) were excited to build a house for a family who didn’t have place to call home.

We enjoyed seeing Mexican culture, time together as a group of friends, hanging out with our Mexican host/construction foreman, attending a Mexican church service, and some of us got to visit a local orphanage.

We believe God ordained this trip as a time for us to learn and grow, and to see his power at work in Mexico.

Jessica Wichers

On the last day of construction, our team poses with the family in front of their new home: (back) Joshua (family friend), Josh Wieler, Starr Wiebe, Kyle Borkofsky, Erica (daughter), Jessica Wichers, Angelica (daughter), Lucianna (mother), Toby (father), Luis (son), youth pastor Peter Hall, Harold Martin; (front) Carl Dowler, Hillary Wiebe, Albee Eisbrenner, Geralyn Wichers, a little friend, Cole Regula, Heidi Wiebe, another little friend, Joyce Martin.

weddings Foundations Bible Study guides published by SBC Old Testament: 13 lessons Minor Prophets New Testament: 13 lessons each * Romans, Good News for a Broken

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Ephesians, The Church that Christ Builds Hebrews James, Learning to Live -- free download at www.sbcollege.ca in Resources * Revelation (coming January 2008) Doctrine: 12 lessons each Living Truth Radical Disipleship Topical: 13 lessons each Come Let Us Worship The Last Trumpet God, Money, and Me The Lord’s Prayer 6 lessons on DVD Each lesson is 30 minutes and comes with a discussion guide.

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THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

BARKMAN – KOVACS: Dahlen, son of Melvin and Arlene Barkman of Riverton, Man., and Chantal, daughter of Corey and Cheryl Kovacs of Riverton, were married on May 31, 2008, at Mennville EMC. The couple lives in Riverton.

WIEBE – STEUERNAGEL: Barney Wiebe and Stephanie Steuernagel were married on June 14, 2008, at La Crete Christian Fellowship in La Crete, Alta., with Peter Fehr of La Crete officiating. The couple lives in La Crete.

PETERS – WIEBE: Tim Peters and Esther Wiebe were married on June 28, 2008 at La Crete Christian Fellowship in La Crete, Alta., with Peter Doerksen of La Crete officiating.

The couple lives in La Crete.

NEUSTAETER – WIEBE: Jeff Neustaeter and Savanna, daughter of Peter and Cheryl Wiebe of La Crete, Alta., were married on August 2, 2008, with Peter Rempel of La Crete officiating.

The couple lives in Edmonton, Alta.

PETERS – GIESBRECHT: Rueben, son of Paul and Sarah Peters of La Crete, Alta., and Judy, daughter of John and Tina Giesbrecht of La Crete, were married on August 17, 2008, with Peter Fehr of La Crete officiating. The couple lives in La Crete.

TEICHROEB – MARTENS: Rod, son of Jake and Anne Teichroeb of La Crete, Alta., and Melinda, daughter of Cornie and Elizabeth Martens of La Crete, were married on August 30, 2008, with Peter Janzen of La Crete officiating. The couple lives in La Crete.

DELL – BELL: Shane Dell and Danni Bell were married on September 27, 2008, in Salmon Arm, B.C. The couple lives in Calgary, Alta.

PETERS – SIEMENS: Mark, son of Bruce and Elaine Peters of Kleefeld, Man., and Amanda, duaghter of Peter and Audrey Siemens of Alberta, were married on October 11, 2008, at Kleefeld EMC.

births FEHR – to Peter and Martha Fehr of La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Natalie Suzanne, on July 27, 2008.

KLASSEN – to Abe and Lisa Klassen of Coaldale, Alta., a son, Dominic Dietrich, on September 22, 2008.

WILLMS – to Topher and Jeannie Willms of Pincher Creek, Alta., a son, Clay Hunter, on August 22, 2008.

ADAM – to Marcus and Tracy Adam of Calgary, Alta., a daughter, Mikaila Jolynn, on September 22, 2008.

MARTENS – to Peter and Susie Martens of Raymond, Alta., a son, Hayden Kale, on September 14, 2008.

WIEBE – to Andy and Connie Wiebe of La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Taeya Grace, on September 30, 2008.

DYCK – to Rob and Shiela Dyck of La Crete, Alta., a son, Sklar Robin, on September 17, 2008.

REIMER – to Isaac and Tina Reimer of Picture Butte, Alta., a daughter, Leah Alexis, on October 2, 2008.

DERKSEN – to Peter and Judy Derksen of La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Alison Laura, on September 18, 2008.

11

archives alcove Terry M. Smith

S

Johann R. Reimer remembered through Steinbach marker

teinbach has pioneers worth remembering— that was the theme on September 14, 2008, when relatives of Johann R. Reimer, dignitaries, and guests met at the corner of Main Street and Reimer Avenue in the Manitoba city, to dedicate a bench in his memory.

The memorial marker is located on the southeast corner of the property Reimer owned in 1874, when the village of Steinbach was established by 18 Kleine Gemeinde families who emigrated from Russia. These members were the start in Canada of what is now the Evangelical Mennonite Conference.

Dr. Al Reimer, a grandson and a former English professor at the University of Winnipeg, said of the 134 years since then, “History does not stand still. It keeps marching on relentlessly, and we accept the march of our Mennonite history with pride and gratitude.”

Johann R. Reimer was born in Molotschna Colony in 1848. He married three times and it was estimated, Dr. Reimer said, that, at one point, half of Steinbach’s residents were related to him. He was a farmer, a businessman, and twice village mayor. He died of tuberculosis in 1918.

“Johann R. Reimer was a man who followed the Kleine Gemeinde Christian tradition of living his faith in humble discipleship rather than merely professing it endlessly to God and the world,” Dr. Reimer said.

His second wife Aganetha was “an amazing woman” who cared for her large family and, as midwife, delivered more than 700 babies, said Dr. Reimer.

Dr. Reimer read a letter from Premier Gary Doer, who said Johann R. Reimer would likely be less impressed

by the economic development of Steinbach than by the number and size of the churches and the service by its people around the world.

Mayor Chris Goertzen said Steinbach’s early history was difficult (as shown by the graves of young people in its cemetery), but the community has been good at recognizing its history.

Local history committee member Henry Fast spoke positively of the cooperation that led to this day. Kelvin Goertzen, local MLA, recalled how, shortly after his election, he was met by a constituent who said he had a responsibility to people of the past, not only to people now and of the future.

Vic Toews, MP Provencher, said there is a need to maintain an historical awareness. While suggesting that Johann R. Reimer might not want a political office to be situated on part of his land today, since he served as mayor Reimer must not have been opposed to all of politics, he added.

Jake Epp, long-time former MP Provencher, said his grandfather had the lot next to Reimer’s. Why should we remember? he asked. The answer is that, as in biblical history, markers give an opportunity to tell the curious of the legacy of faith that builds a future for others.

Rev. Harvey Kroeker, a Reimer relative, led in a prayer of thanksgiving for the gospel received from ancestors.

Dr. Reimer then invited guests to move to Cornerstone Bible Church for a “Mennonite faspa”—a light afternoon meal.

According to the program, at that meal, Sydney Reimer, also a grandson, would guide the event, with “remarks T from descendents.” M

Henry Fast, Harvey Barkman, and Dr. Al Reimer were among those who addressed those gathered.

12

(photos by editor)

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

pictures of God Joanna Plett

T

The gospel of peace

he city of Kuneitra lies on the Golan Heights just inside the Syria’s border with Israel. It is a ghost town, inhabited only by a handful of caretakers and a small UN force. Houses, churches, and mosques lie in ruins, bombed out, bulldozed, and empty. The city is uninhabitable.

The city was captured from Syria by the Israeli army in 1967 and returned to Syria as part of a disengagement settlement in 1974. Before vacating the city, the Israeli army razed the city, leaving it almost impossible for the original Syrian residents to resettle in the city and reestablish long-term control.

As I wandered through the city in January 2008, the shroud of snow added to the silence and solemnity of the place. Looking down over the crumbling buildings of the city and the no-man’s-land between Kuneitra and the Israeli side of the Golan Heights, I asked myself again what causes war.

Mostly, I concluded, it’s about rights and rightness.

The Jews, the Palestinians, and the Syrians all believe they have a right to Kuneitra; other parties agree with one side or the other. So they fight.

Either way, they can’t both be right. At least one side loses—sometimes both sides. And even if one does win, it’s usually a hollow victory, because they may have won their rights, but they still haven’t won peace.

I often have conversations with adherents to other religions. When we discuss theology, it’s all about rightness and rights—rightness about God and rights to Heaven. We can’t both win; we can’t both be right.

If I win, I have won his mind to rightness and his soul to rights, but have we achieved peace and justice between us and our worlds? Or is this, too, a hollow victory?

Walking through the wreckage resulting from one battle for rights, I wondered if rightness— righteousness—in Christianity actually perpetuates the darkness.

In Jesus’ day, the Pharisees had righteousness down to an art, but, like Kuneitra, their stance on righteousness was a bulldozer, bringing only judgment and death.

Those seeking Jesus’ grace, hope, or light could find it on neither end of the spectrum of righteousness— neither by becoming strictly religious, nor by rejecting righteous action and becoming wanton sinners.

Jesus appeared to be working on a different scale altogether: love.

Love is a nebulous term, frustrating and indefinable.

Jesus loved people at all points on the religious spectrum. He questioned the Pharisaic code of entry to Heaven and their criteria of social acceptance.

Suddenly prostitutes and tax collectors were entering the kingdom before them.

Approaching my world stripped of “right,” but armed with love is also somewhat nebulous. It’s much easier to approach people of differing worldviews to convince them that my own system is right than it is to approach them as a fellow human being in search of peace.

But it is on this common quest for peace that we together encounter the love of Jesus. And I believe that as we experience Christ’s love ourselves and learn to mirror it, we will grow into a righteousness that leads to T peace rather than war, and life rather than destruction. M

In Jesus’ day, the Pharisees had righteousness down to an art, but, like Kuneitra, their stance on righteousness was a bulldozer, bringing only judgment and death. (photos by Joanna Plett)

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

13

writings shared Dr. Lawrence Klippenstein

Building Communities: The Changing Face of Manitoba Mennonites, John J. Friesen (Winnipeg, MB: CMU Press, 2007).

Paper, 228 pp., $32.50. ISBN 978-0-920718-78-0. Reviewed by Dr. Lawrence Klippenstein, retired historian and archivist of Mennonite Heritage Centre (Winnipeg, Man.).

O

ne gets a good feel at first sight and handling of this volume, and the title promises something important as a worthwhile book should.

We do have some excellent predecessors of this study—E. K. Francis’s writing In Search of Utopia and John H. Warkentin’s The Settlements of Southern Manitoba, to mention the most notable. But that was fifty years ago.

Much has happened since. The updating forms a most important reason for treating this topic again.

Other facets make this work go beyond the others.

Church matters get a good deal of attention here— especially stories of more traditional groups like Reinlaenders, Old Colony, and even Sommerfelder congregations, who have not had either adequate or particularly useful press.

The appendix listing Manitoba Mennonite (or closely related) groups is an eye opener as it includes groups about which 95 percent of Manitoba Mennonites have not heard before. Other facets are added: surveys of recent developments in the arts, health care, involvement in politics, and updated education supplement the other themes of settlement, agriculture, early education, and involvement in war.

A practical and useful organizer in three designated parts keeps one focused on discernable historical periods: Part I: 1870–1920: Pursing a Vision; Part II: 1920–1950: Engaging Society; and Part III: 1950–2000: Expanding Horizons.

The pay dirt is, of course, in the details and they cannot be summarized easily here. Side bars are tantalizing.

A good sampling of photos, a number of unusually clear maps, and many summarizing charts significantly enhances this rejuvenating account. Documentation is thorough and a bibliography is well organized.

The story is one of “building,” constructing, moving ahead, growing, development—positive themes as a total telling goes. But though there are relatively brief references to more negative trends, there is still a major

14

Other facets make this work go beyond the others.

Church matters get a good deal of attention here— especially stories of more traditional groups who have not had either adequate or particularly useful press. analysis awaiting attention—factors that led, in the larger Mennonite community, to excessive divisiveness, scattering, considerable conflict, failure to reach projected goals, miscalculations. Those realities add a somber element to the entire Mennonite experience in Manitoba.

Generalizations of positive achievements are well stated, but sometimes brought to rest on data which may well exist but not always drawn in to support given conclusions.

There are some less than adequate features also in the formatting and technical production. Many photos are too small and unclear. A final section of the Manitoba Mennonite church listing (the “ws”) has been omitted (p.

175). Factual errors and ambiguities have slipped in (e.g., citing the formation of the Bergthaler church of the West Reserve as happening in 1882—p. 29).

All this aside, and one may rightly call some of it quibbling, this work is a much-needed and well-done volume in Mennonite historical writing. It is a must-read (even twice) no questions asked, and we hope all readers T of this review will see it as such. M

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

MDSers meet and no renovation happens

I

t was unusual: Three Mennonite Disaster Service people met on a site needing renovation—and nothing got physically changed.

The site needing work was the EMC national office (which is a story in itself).

The three representatives were Lois Nickel, director, MDS region relations and program (Winnipeg); Scott Sundberg, MDS director of communications; and Brian Pipkin, designer of Behind the Hammer, MDS’s binational quarterly magazine.

They gathered in our national office’s boardroom on September 24 to help EMCers better understand MDS. When asked for MDS 101, Scott Sundberg moved into explaining what, in short, appears in every issue of Behind the Hammer: “MDS is a non-profit agency that responds to the needs of disaster survivors. MDS volunteers clean up, repair, and rebuild damaged homes.”

Volunteers from Canada are welcome. What do people have to do to go? “Very little. Phone the 800 number [800241-8111], sign up, and go,” Lois Nickel says, laughing.

Till now volunteers have needed only a letter of introduction to serve in the U.S, she says. What will happen when new border restrictions come into effect is unclear.

They talk of how MDS does not screen workers for short-term (one to three weeks) and a bit more for long term (a month or more) service. If some people can’t handle manual skills, other tasks (cooking, office work) are available.

Special needs, Scott says, are to have people serve for four or five months and to have people with some skills to guide willing, but unskilled volunteers.

There’s a partial travel bursary for workers; food and simple lodging are covered. For pastors serving for a week, the cost is completely covered, Lois says. Why completely for pastors? It’s because they hope pastors— and editors too—will motivate more people to become involved.

The media matters. While needs remain years after Katrina, Lois says, less media attention means that donations have fallen off.

Perceptions matter too. One of the “criticisms” of MDS, says Nickel, is that it, with its “white privileged” group, moves into a community, fixes, and leaves. But Lois and Scott both stress that MDS works with the local community.

As well, while traveling to serve elsewhere is common, Lois is concerned that people understand that MDS local chapters exist and are active.

Currently MDS is cleaning flooded basements in Manitoba’s Interlake and looking into providing feed for cattle farmers, she says. She quickly lists off some chapters elsewhere: British Columbia, Saskatchewan, California, Iowa, Indiana.

Toward the end of the interview, Brian Pipkin is asked why he’s involved with MDS. His answer is clear.

On the practical side, he wanted to pursue journalism.

“On the “theological side,” MDS has “more of a holistic ministry” that “focuses on the margins…the disabled, the poor, and so forth,” he says. “And so that is what attracted me to MDS.” It turns out Pipkin is an ordained Four Square (Pentecostal) minister with a bachelor’s degree in crosscultural ministry, a master’s degree in intercultural studies earned in the Philippines, and a master of arts in religion (theology and ethics) from the U.S. He’s involved with a Pentecostal peace organization.

He said “for so long you read about history and theology, and it’s nice to be with these kinds of people and actually making history today.”

It’s amazing what can be learned when MDSers get T together—even when building renovation doesn’t happen. M Terry M. Smith

It’s amazing what can be learned when MDSers get together—even when building renovation doesn’t happen.

MDSers Scott Sundberg, Brian Pipkin, and Lois NIckel. (photos by Rebecca Buhler)

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

15

Mennonite World Conference

Miller: Churches in the North and South need each other

D

r. Larry Miller laughed.

The first question during our September 19 interview at the EMC national office was, “When it comes to promoting the work of Mennonite World Conference, why didn’t MWC send somebody really important and good at it—like Eleanor?”

Dr. Miller is the General Secretary of Mennonite World Conference, and Eleanor is his wife and co-worker in MWC’s office in Strasbourg, France. She sends news releases to The Messenger and responds quickly to requests for photos—which is delightful to editors facing deadlines.

He explained that “really important and good” Eleanor had been away from the office for a while—including seeing a son get married—and had to attend to matters.

But Dr. Miller quickly added that there are people whom, he believes, would be “better faces” for MWC; this includes two people recently in Canada—a man from Africa, a woman from India.

He said that there are about 1.5 million Anabaptists in the world, and of these about eighty percent (1.2 million) are officially connected with MWC. Notable exceptions are Old Colony Mennonites, the Hutterites, and the Amish, he said. There has been some discussion with Old Colony Mennonites and the Bruderhof, a group indebted to Hutterites.

“The strength of the relationship between Mennonite World Conference and any of its member churches,” said Miller, “depends primarily on what the member church wants to make of that relationship” through its leaders and delegates.

16

With Anabaptism’s numbers shifting from the North (North America and Europe) to the South (Latin America, Africa and Asia), Miller credits the South being the reason MWC has “moved beyond being primarily an occasional conference to a communion or community of churches that tries to help link the churches in more on-going, continuing ways.”

The younger churches are “keen” on meeting every six years, he said, but “they also say it is totally insufficient as a way of continuing relationships with one another.” The Southern churches are younger, less “institutionalized” than in North America, and “see a greater need” for contact and joint activity.

Miller said the “median theology” of churches in Asia, Africa, and Latin America is “a kind of evangelical Anabaptist theology.” He thinks it “will keep the world family focused in that way rather than drifting right or left theologically.”

In the past decade, he sees churches in the North developing “a growing awareness” that what happens in the global Anabaptist family depends as much on what happens in the South as in North America and Europe. The role of the North is not only “to do something for them” [the South], he said, but it involves a “growing balance”; the North also needs to receive from the South.

Where does he see the MWC/EMC relationship and where does he want it to go? “The strength of the relationship between Mennonite World Conference and any of its member churches,” said Miller, “depends primarily on what the member church wants to make of that relationship” through its leaders and delegates.

Each member conference has “important things to bring” to other churches in MWC. “I’m grateful for the relationship we have and hope for growth in it,” he replied.

The next MWC Assembly (Gathered and Scattered) is July 14–19, 2009: Come Together in the Way of Jesus Christ (Phil.

2:1–11), in Asuncion,

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

Paraguay. He said “we’re projecting” there will be about 6,000 participants, about the same as in Zimbabwe 2003—4,000 from Paraguay (Indigenous, German, and Latino) and about 2,000 “internationals.”

There is a travel fund to assist with official conference representatives from Asia and Latin America. Others will have to finance their trips, which means “a concentration” will come from North America and Europe, he said. He anticipates a strong contingent from Canada because of connections with Paraguay.

How does MWC effectively become involved with such situations as Zimbabwe, Congo, Darfur, Afghanistan, and Iraq? MWC connects with member churches, he responded; nothing has happened with Darfur because it has no Anabaptist (Mennonite) Assistant editor Rebecca Buhler (Steinbach, Man.) and MWC General Secretary Larry churches.

Miller (Strasbourg, France) point to their home locations.

In Zimbabwe, where there are 30,000 Brethren in Augsburg Confession that speak against Anabaptists, but Christ members, MWC has tried to express that “the it remains to be seen if it will move beyond that, Miller rest of the family of faith is standing with” them by said. sending a Koinonia delegation; by sending (as requested He was asked, given diverse views of Anabaptists on

by Zimbabweans) presidential election observers (from women and church leadership, how does MWC balance southern Africa); by being in discussion with MCC; and, concerns or guide in this controversial area? Miller again as requested, by writing a letter of concern to responded by emphasizing that MWC does not guide political leaders in Zimbabwe. conferences, but it “encourages member churches who When Dr. Miller was informed that the EMC response to the MWC-Catholic dialogue is quite mixed, he asked for have different views on this to speak to one another.”

MWC’s General Council did discuss the role of women information and then said the MWC delegation’s trip to a few years ago, but it “wasn’t our intention nor did we Rome was the result of a “ten-year process.” produce a conclusion or a guideline, and we don’t have There were years of MWC-Catholic theological any intention to do that at this point,” he said. discussions (1998–2003) and a report was prepared: MWC does seek that churches and members would Called Together to be Peacemakers. use their gifts, “but that doesn’t speak directly to the This report was sent to MWC’s General Council ordination question. And we haven’t spoken to that, and and then forwarded to member conferences for “their at this point we have no plans to,” he said. responses and their comments and their concerns,” and What keeps him going as General Secretary? It’s the the delegation “put those [responses] on the table” in “vitality” of the Church in the South. But the end of his Rome in 2007, he said. involvement as General Secretary is in view—in 2012.

In choosing the six-member Anabaptist theological His hope is that the next General Secretary will come delegation to represent 97 member conferences, the from the church in the “global south” and that Northern attempt was made to select a “diversity” of “different churches would show trust and “say, ‘Well, at last. It’s theological positions within the MWC family,” he said. about time!’”

Evangelical Anabaptists from Africa and North Miller says he’s too young to retire. He doesn’t see America were part of the theological discussions. If himself serving in a professorship that his doctorate in necessary, he hoped MWC would do better next time at theology (earned in France) might allow, but he does seeking to have the “main currents” present, though a want the next position to be meaningful. “next time” isn’t projected yet.

Both the position and his office location on the globe There is a limited discussion happening with the have yet to be decided.

Lutheran World Federation about portions of the What is clear, though, is that Dr. Larry Miller finds it difficult to envision a role as meaningful as serving as MWC’s General Secretary.

The interview ended with a simple question: Will you pass on our thanks as editors to Eleanor?

T Miller said he would. M Terry M. Smith

Larry Miller responds to a question from editor Terry Smith.

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

Editor’s note: The EMC is using the Paraguay location as an occasion to connect Latin leaders. Plans are developing for an EMC representative to attend the Global Youth Summit in connection with the 2009 Assembly.

17

South parking lot paved at SBC/SCHS The south parking lot of the shared campus of Steinbach Bible College and Steinbach Christian High School has a new layer of asphalt covering it.

Paving the parking lot will ease the maintenance burden on the schools and provides a more enjoyable experience to visitors.

Earlier this summer, two air conditioner units were installed, one for the library and the other to cool the chapel. Both areas are used throughout the year and will benefit from the added comfort and climate control that air conditioning provides.

“Our library has a large collection of historic books,” says Chrystie Boggs, assistant librarian. “Installing the air conditioning means that these books will be preserved for generations to come.”

Many Steinbach businesses contributed to make these projects possible.

“The community has come through for us again, demonstrating their support for the ministry that happens at the schools,” says Len Sawatzky, director of development.

SBC

Holiday Travel presents Eastern Europe: Mennonite Heritage Ukraine and Historical Russia May 18–June 5, 2009 ( Deadline March 15) South America: Bolivia Oct. 12–26, 2009 (Deadline August 15) Contact tour host Len Loeppky: Phone 204-326-2613, E-mail: aloeppky@mts.net www.holiday-travel.ca

New directors at Eden Foundation Eden Foundation has appointed Linda Driedger, of Winkler, as director of events coordination and Ken Reddig, of Pinawa, as director of development and planned giving.

Linda came to work in Eden a year ago and has experience with a wide range of promotional and service activities in Manitoba and Europe.

Ken Reddig has a long service record: in the Centre for Mennonite Brethren Studies (Winnipeg), at the Manitoba Archives, with MCC Manitoba, and with MCC Canada.

Eden Foundation is the development arm of Eden Health Care Services in Winkler, Man. While many of Eden’s services are supported by the Regional Health Authority (RHA) of Manitoba, some are not.

The Eden Foundation exists to provide services that are beyond the general funding of the RHA—such as marriage and family counseling through Recovery of Hope and new program initiatives.

18

Eden is best known for its operation of a psychiatric hospital. It also provides residential care and services, marriage and family counseling, and assists people reintegrating into the work force.

Its services extend into various parts of southern Manitoba.

While Eden is owned and operated by the Mennonite churches of Manitoba (including the EMC), its services are available to all Manitobans.

Eden Foundation

coming events November 6–9 Business as a Calling 2008: Dividends of Hope Speaker: Philip Yancey MEDA Convention Columbus, Ohio 717-560-6546 www.meda.org

November 29 EMC Conference Council meeting Aberdeen EMC Winnipeg, Man. 204-326-6401

November 29–December 1 EMC Ministerial Retreat Celebrating the Call of God in Ministry Speakers: Dr. Henry and Linda Ozirney Wilderness Edge Retreat Centre Pinawa, Man. 204-326-1644 www.emconf.ca Linda Driedger and Ken Reddig

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

shoulder tapping The EMC seeks a full- or part-time archivist to fill the equivalent of a one-year 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.

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.

Steinbach EMC in Steinbach, Man., has a new opportunity to fill a half-time director of worship arts. You have a heart of worship, seeking to worship God in spirit and truth. You enjoy the richness of diversity in music and worship arts.

As a disciple of Christ, you are a willing, and teachable leader. Your love for the Lord and strong faith in Him is reflected in your ability to work well with many artists involved in worship arts ministry here. If this is you, we encourage you to check www.emchurch.com for information and how to respond. Blessings to you as you follow the Lord’s call on your life.

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

applications for lead pastor. We aim to be a friendly, family-welcoming church body of 70 to 90 people, and seek a pastor who can encourage us by word and example to grow to maturity in Christ.

Enquiries can be directed to the Pastoral Search Committee at 306-773-9089 (leave a message) or funkfarm@gmail.com (Paul Funk).

managerial experience, a background in Christian camping, be capable of general maintenance, interact well with the public, and work well with the manager/director. VVBC has a strong camping and retreat ministry. Salary to be negotiated.

Contact 204-668-2776 or mb@cssm.ca for application forms or information.

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.

Expand your world: Teach in Lithuania! LCC International University seeks university instructors in English, business administration, psychology and theology; PhD recommended.

We seek English teachers for our Intensive English Program (IEP). EFL/ESL experience and MA recommended.

Eager students come from 21 different countries. We provide housing, travel stipend, orientation, and a supportive Christian environment. Contact us at opportunities@lcc.lt or check www.lcc.lt.

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.

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, 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.

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.

Help change your world one life at a time through Christian camping. Due to illness, one of our staff couples has had to resign. We are in need of a full-time food services director at Red Rock Bible Camp. Call 204-326-9784. Resumes may be e-mailed to kim@redrockbiblecamp.com or faxed to 204-348-7081.

Hillside Christian Fellowship (EMC) La Crete, Alberta, seeks a full-time pastor.

Where is La Crete? Where the sun shines 20 hours a day in summer, the northern lights light up the sky in fall; moose, deer, and bear are common sights; Canada geese gather by the thousands in fall; and the snowmobilers long for winter. People of La Crete are hardworking, loving, caring, optimistic people.

Desired: married couple, some pastoral experience, willing to work with all ages.

Competitive northern Alberta salary package, housing available, country church, excellent public education system K-12. Local economy: farming, logging, oilfield. Local languages: Low German and English.

If the Holy Spirit is tugging at your heart, give us a call. You might be surprised at what God has in store for you and His church. Contact Johnny Wieler at 780-928-3880 or avll@siscanada.ca.

Eden Health Care Services, a faith-based mental health recovery service provider engaged in a range of programs, seeks a full-time chief financial officer.

This individual will work with board members and other senior managers responsible for the accounting and finance functions contributing to the development of annual operating plans and long-term corporate strategy.

A full job description and list of qualifications is available upon request or by checking www. edenhealth.mb.ca. Contact: James Friesen, CEO, Eden Health Care Services, Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A6; Fax 204-325-8742; Ph. 204-325-5355; E-mail: jfriesen.ehcs@mts.net.

Interviews will start September 2008 and will continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

Eden is a program of the Mennonite Churches of Manitoba in partnership with Regional Health Authority Central MB, Inc.

Wymark EMC, a country church located 20 miles southeast of Swift Current, Sask., is accepting

Valley View Bible Camp (CSSM), near MacGregor, Man., seeks an assistant camp manager/director. The manager should have

THE MESSENGER October 22, 2008

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.

SBC invites applications for the position of admissions counsellor. This opportunity includes connecting with potential students from across Canada and internationally. If you are excited about your relationship with God and would love to tell others what He is doing at SBC, consider joining our team of men and women committed to training people to serve in kingdom ministry.

The successful applicant must be willing to travel and work some evenings and weekends.

SBC alumni are encouraged to apply. Applications accepted until a suitable candidate is found.

Submit resumé and cover letter to: SBC, Attn: Patrick Friesen, 50 PTH 12 N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4, 204-326-6451 ext. 272, or pfriesen@sbcollege. ca.

Steinbach Mennonite Brethren Church is now accepting applications for the position of lead pastor.

SMBC is a multi-generational church in a growing community. Our pastor is supported by a team of two associate pastors, two administrative assistants (one FTE), two custodians, and a congregation of approximately 400.

Resumes may be sent confidentially to: Pastoral Search Committee, Box 1930, Steinbach, MB R5G 1N5 or smbc@mts.net.

19

KIDS’

corner Thanksgiving Activities: Loreena Thiessen

I will be thankful!

W

hat are you thankful for?

Are you thankful for your mother who cooks your favorite meal for all to enjoy?

She may also bake cookies just because she knows you like them. Have you thanked her?

What about your best friend? You share special times with her, talk things over and do your homework together. Maybe you sleep over. Are you thankful for such a good friend?

Are you thankful for all the things you are able to do?

Are you thankful you have good shoes to walk in, warm sweaters, a bike? What about school? Are you thankful for your school?

Do you have a teacher you really like? Perhaps your teacher explains Math really well or has a way to make a history event interesting. Perhaps he listens to your ideas. Do you think school is something to be thankful for?

Why should you be thankful?

There is a saying, Gratitude makes a great attitude.

How does gratitude, thankfulness, improve your attitude?

Being thankful will change your focus; you will consider the things you already have instead of thinking about all the things you still would like to have. As you consider and appreciate the things you have, you will see more and more to be thankful for, because there are many good things all around you.

Being thankful will help you when you face something difficult. For example, you may have to miss a few days of school because you have a bad cold. Of course it’s no fun to be sick.

1. Keep a gratitude journal; write down five things you are thankful for each day. Each day you can look back and remember what you were thankful for yesterday.

2. Write a letter describing several things you are thankful for. Address it someone you know. Or address it to God. 3. Make a gratitude poster; collect or draw pictures of things that show what you are thankful for. Hang it up in your room to remind you to be thankful.

4. An action prayer for younger readers: Thanks to our Father we will bring (fold hands) For he gives us everything (spread arms out) Eyes and ears and hands and feet (point to eyes, ears, hands, feet) Clothes to wear (point to clothes) And food to eat (bring hand to mouth) But you can be thankful for hot chicken soup, a safe and warm home where you can rest, and a caring parent who looks after you.

If you are thankful someone else may want to be thankful too. A thankful attitude is contagious, other people may catch it.

There is another reason to be thankful. God commands it. In Colossians 3:15 Paul says we must “be thankful” if we follow Jesus. It is our duty.

In Luke 17:11–19, Jesus tells the story of the ten lepers. He healed them all. But only one came back to thank him. Jesus was shocked. “Where are the others?” he asked. “Is only one thankful?”

T What can you do? You can decide to be thankful. M

Do you have a teacher you really like? Perhaps your teacher explains Math really well or has a way to make a history event interesting. Do you think school is something to be thankful for?

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