The Messenger Vol. 46 No. 21 December 3, 2008

THE

MESSENGER

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

volume 46, number 21 December 3, 2008

Christmas is

good news news,, isn’t it?

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

editorials

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Christmas Eve 1944

n Christmas Eve 1944 four men met; one wanted to confess and to receive communion.

Another fellow played a violin Christmas chorale “exquisitely.” Hanns Lilje, a Lutheran bishop, read the Scripture for Christmas Day, the story from Luke 2: “Now it came to pass in those days that in those days there went out a decree….”

“Tonight we are a congregation,” the bishop said in his sermon. “…Our chief concern is to receive this promise in firm faith, and to believe that God, through Jesus Christ, has allowed the eternal light to ‘arise and shine’ upon this world which is plunged in the darkness of death, and that He will also make this Light to shine for us…Let us cling to this promise, and to Him, in the midst of the darkness.”

“Tonight we are a congregation,” Bishop Lilje said in his sermon. “…Our chief concern is to receive this promise in firm faith, and to believe that God, through Jesus Christ, has allowed the eternal light to ‘arise and shine’ upon this world which is plunged in the darkness of death."

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We’re withholding information

eaders are missing out on news and needs.

Many worthy requests come to this publication. This presents us with a problem: how do we keep readers informed without tiring them through too much information?

How often should we mention the wide range of ministries and needs within the EM Conference, the many organizations we are involved with (such as MCC, MDS, MWC, MEDA), and other worthwhile organizations?

Some news and needs get published; much doesn’t.

Today’s instant communication confronts us with massive information and many needs, but without

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 Unpublished material is Terry M. Smith Rebecca Buhler not returned except by request.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. 1 – January 7 Main St, Steinbach, Man. (copy due December 26)

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There was a prayer of confession, a statement of absolution, and a celebration of the Lord’s Supper. After a closing chorale from the violinist, the bishop gave the musician a warm handshake and said, “God bless you, brother.”

Then the fourth man shook the bishop’s hand twice “with an iron grip.” “Thank you!” he said. “You cannot imagine what you have done for me this evening, in my sad and difficult work.”

Three of the four men were prisoners of the Gestapo in Germany; the fourth was the commandant, their jailer.

Later, the man who requested communion was removed from prison and placed by the Gestapo in a concentration camp. The violinist was killed by the Gestapo. The commandant lost his post because he was too humane. Bishop Lilje survived his ninemonth imprisonment; he had been falsely accused of involvement in the July 20 Generals’ Plot to kill Hitler.

“But the memory of my Christmas service in 1944, illuminated by the consoling and eternal Light of God, still remains with me,” Lilje wrote later (The Valley of the T Shadow, Fortress, 1950/1977). M Terry M. Smith

enough time to process our thoughts or to work through our emotional responses.

Part of our role as a magazine is to keep readers informed of our Conference activities and needs. We want to demonstrate the accountability and openness that readers deserve. But much more could be said.

We are glad when readers drop in, phone, or e-mail for information.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” T (Galatians 6:9). 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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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 December 3, 2008

Plett Foundation opens office at U. of W. The remarkable legacy of Delbert F. Plett, a prominent Steinbach., Man., lawyer who died in 2004, will live on thanks in part to a partnership between the University of Winnipeg and the D.F. Plett Historical Research Foundation.

At a ceremony at the University of Winnipeg, the Plett Foundation officially accepted the keys to their new offices from Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, university president.

Before his untimely death in 2004, Delbert Plett was an enthusiastic promoter of history with a keen interest in telling the story of Traditionalist Mennonites. He published more than a dozen books on the theme.

Plett left the majority of his sizeable

estate to the D. F. Plett Historical Research Foundation, which is committed to continuing this work. Foundation chair Dr. Royden Loewen thanked the University of Winnipeg for supporting Mennonite studies.

Dr. Lloyd Axworthy welcomed the Foundation to the University and noted that the partnership is a continuation of Plett’s work and an important key to the study of Canadian history.

The Foundation office is on the second floor of Bryce Hall. Dr. Hans Werner is the Executive Director; he also teaches Mennonite Studies and Canadian History in the University’s Department of History.

Plett Foundation

Dr. Axworthy, executive director Hans Werner, and other visitors view the new offices.

Workers needed for team to Burkina Faso January 24–February 15, 2009 The team will work on construction of a leadership training centre.

Contact Art Koop, 204-355-4243, for information.

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

Marvin Frey dies at 59

Marv Frey, Mennonite organizational leader and spouse of former Aberdeen EMC pastor Ardith Frey, died in his home in southern Ontario on October 19 as a result of brain cancer. He was 59.

Most recently, Frey was the chief executive officer of Ten Thousand Villages Canada, which he joined in 2002.

In September 2007, Frey was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Despite failing health, he continued to provide input on projects and plans for the organization.

“Marv leaves a legacy of integrity, humility and compassion,” said Bev Hiebert, director of sales at Ten Thousand Villages. His character was described as humble and generous, patient and honest.

Prior to joining Ten Thousand Villages, Frey served as program director with Canadian Foodgrains Bank, executive director of MCC Canada, and coordinator of MCC Canada Overseas Services.

Between 1971 and 1988, Frey served as a MCC service worker in Jamaica, Swaziland, Somalia, and Lesotho.

He contributed a chapter in Follow Me, the EMC discussion guide on biblical social justice published in 2006: Cocoa and Chocolate—the Pleasures of the Elite (the sticky web of international trade).

“Marv made tremendous contributions to MCC and other church-based organizations,” added MCC Canada Executive Director, Don Peters. “He was a great hands-on practitioner who was willing to serve others as a leader. We will miss him.”

MCCC, TTVC with EMC

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Christmas is

good news news,, isn’t it?

Daniel Epp-Tiessen

1994

was the most painful Christmas season of my life. That year as December 25 drew nearer, Esther and I found our pain and sorrow growing deeper and deeper. Almost every evening that December after we got our two young boys in bed we would collapse exhausted on the living-room couch.

We would light a candle to remember Tim, and then we would weep, abundant tears flowing down our cheeks. After an hour or so, when we were even more exhausted, we would climb into bed. That Christmas of 1994 was so difficult because less than two months earlier our dear eight-year-old son Tim had died of a brain tumour.

Christmas is good news, isn’t it?

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friend of mine used to work at an inner-city Christian men’s hostel. He observed that as Christmas approached the mood in the hostel would become more and more foul, as the men would became more mean and nasty to each other and to the staff.

Christmas is good news, isn’t it?

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remember a man I will call Paul Stevens. Paul was able to live and function on his own, but he experienced great difficulty in connecting with people. And so Paul had few friends, and most of his family members had died.

Paul hated the Christmas season and he especially hated Christmas Day. Paul received no gifts and he had no one to spend the day with.

He couldn’t even find a coffee shop that was open so that he could escape from his aloneness.

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THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

Christmas is good news, isn’t it?

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ave you ever talked to someone who has just gone through a marriage break-up, or lost a job, or gone bankrupt, or lost a dear loved one, and asked them how they feel about the Advent-Christmas season?

If Christmas is good news, why then do so many people experience Christmas as such a difficult and painful time? There are probably numerous reasons for this, but one of them has to do with what we have done with the Christmas season.

Christmas cards and truth Every Advent I remember an article by Maynard Shelly that I read more than thirty years ago now.

The article is provocatively entitled Do Christmas Cards Tell the Truth? Shelly concludes that they don’t.

Think of how the typical Christmas cards portray the story: beautiful sentimental scenes of a confident and calm Joseph, a radiant Mary, and a peacefully sleeping baby Jesus, all surrounded by cute and cuddly animals. Is this the truth about Christmas?

Luke tells us that Jesus was born in a stable. A stable is a place where animals are kept. Stables come complete with certain animal byproducts and the annoying flies these byproducts attract and the pungent odors they give off.

So where in the Hallmark cards do we see the manure, the flies, the cobwebs, the stench? In the Hallmark version of Christmas the stable has been pressure-washed, the animals have all showered recently, and Mary looks absolutely nothing like an exhausted young women who has just gone through hard labour after a long journey and given birth to her first baby in a barn far from the familiarity of home and family.

It is easy to see why Christmas cards don’t tell the truth. Realistic portrayals of the birth of Jesus are not likely to sell many cards. And so we sentimentalize and romanticize Christmas and turn the story of Jesus’ birth into a perfect event that lacks the pain, agony, and unpleasantness that characterizes the story as told in the New Testament.

False perfection Maybe it is precisely this false perfection that prevents many people from experiencing Christmas as good news. Christmas in our society has become about perfection. Christmas cards give us a perfect stable, a perfect Mary, and perfect animals.

Television commercials give us (or promise us) the perfect gift, received in the context of a perfect

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

Is this the truth about Christmas? family. Families in such commercials are always complete, happy, and without tension or conflict.

Martha Stewart gives us a perfectly decorated house, a perfectly set table, and a perfect meal.

No wonder Christmas is not experienced as good news by many people.

No wonder the men at the inner city hostel feel their aloneness and alienation all the more intensely at Christmas. No wonder poor and marginalized people feel their poverty and marginalization all the more acutely at Christmas.

No wonder grieving people feel overwhelmed by the waves of pain. When there is deep pain and brokenness in your life there is not much good news in a perfect Christmas. People who are hurting are not likely to find themselves at home in a perfect Christmas.

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Jesus, asleep in the dumpster ut the real good news of Christmas is that Jesus was born in a barn. The Lord of this universe came to us as love incarnate in the form of a baby born to poor peasants.

This baby was born in a dark, stinky, fly-infested stable. If you want to contemporize the story, imagine Jesus born in a back alley behind the Safeway store, where Joseph has made a bed for Mary and Jesus in the dumpster.

And that is good news. God comes to us not in and through perfection. Jesus the Christ was born into a world where there is manure, obnoxious disease-spreading flies, and far too often life stinks.

And that is good news.

Christmas is not about Jesus being born into perfect stables or perfect families or a perfect world. Christmas is about Jesus being born into a world that is deeply broken and hurting, a world in need of healing and redemption.

Our Christmas cards, malls, and TV commercials want us to deny or turn away from the pain, 5

suffering, and brokenness of our world. But there is not much good news in that, because if we dare to be honest with ourselves we know that many forms of brokenness are all too real in our world.

The good news of Christmas is that God does not turn away from precisely such a world, but God decides to become immersed in it. God sends Jesus the Christ to enter into the world’s pain and to bring light and hope and joy and peace and new life. The good news of Christmas can be summarized by the words of John 1:5: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”

Christ is the light that shone into the darkness of first-century Palestine dominated by an oppressive Roman Empire that ruled with an iron grip and taxed the life-blood out of the Jewish peasants.

Christmas is about Jesus coming into the darkness with God’s promise that some day all of creation will be bathed and illuminated and renewed by the healing light of God, and that we can receive and walk in that light now already.

Lingering memories of love, unity, and our Saviour Gertie Dueck Friesen 6

Christ came as light to heal the sick, cast out life-destroying demons, and to proclaim the good news that God’s Kingdom had arrived. Therefore, people could receive the marvelous grace of God and repent.

They could leave behind sinful and destructive beliefs and ways of living. They could embrace the joy of God’s reign, experience Kingdom grace and forgiveness, and begin to live in life-giving Kingdom ways now already even amidst the darkness.

Christmas is about Jesus Christ entering the darkness of first- century Palestine, and entering the darkness of our world, and entering the darkness of every other time and place, to bring light, healing, forgiveness, renewal, and abundant life.

Christmas is about Jesus coming into the darkness with God’s promise that some day all of creation will be bathed and illuminated and renewed by the healing light of God, and that we can receive and walk in that light now already.

Indeed, Christmas is good T news, isn’t it! M Daniel Epp-Tiessen, Ph.D. (Old Testament), is associate professor of Bible at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg, Man.

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t was the month of November in the 1930s. The cold north wind blew across the fields and countryside.

The snow came down in big flakes. The temperatures dropped way below zero.

Winter had come and with the cold weather the farmers were preparing for the annual pig butchering.

This job ensured the family of a winter’s supply of meat.

Butchering day was always busy and sometimes two or three pigs were butchered in one day.

Friends and relatives were asked to help. The day started early and it was late by the time everything was cleaned up.

Later, the flock of turkeys on our farm had to be killed, dressed, and prepared for the market. This gave our Dad a little more income for Christmas.

Ducks and geese also had to be killed and cleaned for our own use. Plucking and cleaning all these birds was a tremendous job, and our fingers didn’t want to function anymore when the last one was done.

When all these jobs were done, and the pork and fowl stored away, my mother’s thoughts turned toward getting ready for the Christmas season. We were a large family and she was hard pressed to get everything done.

There was baking, cleaning, sewing, as well as the usual household chores. Mother sewed, but it was not her most

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

enjoyable role. She had a neighbour lady come sew for the smaller girls.

With our nearest store being 10 miles away, my mother was imaginative in finding materials for our dresses. The store was too far away with sleigh and horses, even if she had the money to buy fabric.

She went to her chest and hauled out some of her cast off dresses, which were still in good shape. With the long, full skirts there was ample material for a couple of dresses. We were quite proud to wear them.

The aroma of Christmas baking, such as cookies, buns, and bread, wafting through the house; the awareness of presents being hidden; and children memorizing their poems for the school program, gave a festive atmosphere in our home.

The highlight of the Christmas season for children and adults alike was the annual school Christmas program. Our teacher made a great effort to produce a good program. The students were coached and busy learning their poems and songs.

The school program was a community highlight and was always held on Christmas Eve. Excitement ran high when that day arrived. We were bathed and combed, had a quick lunch, and then were dressed.

By the time Dad had hitched the team of horses to the big bobsled, we were ready. We, ten of us plus our parents, piled in, and on this cold, clear, moonlit, holy night we were of to our local community church. The sound of crunching snow under the sleigh runners and the clopping of horse hooves added to the Christmas spirit.

Many friends and neighbours were already there when we arrived. Leaving our coats and caps in the foyer, we students were ushered to the stage, where we sat facing the audience.

The small church was packed. On this evening the community of Kleefeld seemed to be one happy family. Different church denominations were forgotten and Merry Christmas wishes were heard all around.

The teacher had coached the children well. The poems and songs were well-brought, although there were some pupils who had to be prodded. We gave the teacher all the praise for the wonderful program he had organized and for the way he taught the children the real meaning of Christmas.

After the program the preschool tots came up and recited their verses. Paper bags filled with goodies were handed out to all students plus the little ones.

The teacher had the closing prayer and we were dismissed.

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

The highlight of the Christmas season for children and adults alike was the annual school Christmas program. The students were coached and busy learning their poems and songs.

There was much jostling with cheery voices wishing each other Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and “Hope to see you after the New Year!” We were on our way home with these wishes still ringing in our ears.

We were home, cold, tired and sleepy, but happy as we huddled near the big wood heater, which our Dad had just fired up, to absorb a little warmth before being ushered to bed.

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y parents put out a dinnerware plate on the table for each child, ready to be filled on Christmas morning with goodies. This act on Christmas Eve was a tradition for as long as I can remember.

I continued this tradition in my own household when family came along. Peanuts, candy, oranges, and nuts were on each plate on Christmas morning, with a little present sometimes added.

I am now on in years, but those annual Christmas school programs have left a lingering impression on me. The unity and love of those evenings, in spite of different church backgrounds, was a blessing I’ll never forget.

May our homes and communities be blessed with the unity and love that only Christ can give.

May our homes and communities be blessed with the unity and love that only Christ can give. Let’s remember the real meaning of Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, our Lord T and Saviour. M Gertie Dueck Friesen (Rosenort EMC) is from Morris, Man. She was married to, and served the Lord with, Peter L. Friesen when he was elected to the ministry, while he served for 20 years as bishop of the West Reserve (among Manitoba EM churches on the west side of the Red River), and later as he served as EMC moderator. They were married from 1948-2006.

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Adorning Love Christmas love that came to be, adorning love, for you and me.

Child fair upon the hay, this priceless Gift Heav’n gave that day.

Called to see the Son of God, from fields afar, to bring Him laud.

Shepherds, wise men, wealth in hand, knelt on the floor in a strange land.

The Star that guided each young man, held joy so great in God’s whole plan.

For history true was prophesied, as all that night was realized.

Adorning Love, Who set me free, forever on I’ll cherish Thee.

And when the night from day is done, I’ll whisper thanks to You who dwelt among.

A lowly world; we needed You. The Christ Who came to make things new.

And as we trust Him in our way, We’ll live that night just as on that Christmas Day! Eleanor Lee Gustaw

A song was born so soft and sweet, a melody the world would mete.

With praises high to God they sang, men and angels, in chorus, voices rang.

For in His Son, new life had come a Saviour, King, to walk with men among.

And no one could deny His place, He came for all the human race.

And ‘though God’s heart had come to Plan, to each woman, child, and every man, Within each heart we must ask Him in, accept this Child, this baby, King.

This child fair, the one who died, can cleanse our hearts, each sin and lie.

This Christmas love for you and me, forever in our hearts can be.

Holy Child, Jesus, Lord, You are the One to whom I lay down my life, Give my all to you, And hold within my heart, All You came to be that Christmas Day.

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THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

with our missionaries Nicaragua

Stories show the orphanage’s need By now we know the names of the girls at the Gethsemane orphanage, and have heard them tell us many stories.

How sad that they have to be in such a home in the first place, but just being there doesn’t take away the pain. They have such a mountain of issues to work through, and they are only beginning the path to healing.

We are grateful for so many ways in which Christians in Canada assist the work here. Recently, we began to distribute aprons made by Kate Klassen of Portage Evangelical Church.

When I work with a girl, I want to do activities with them, and then they will have their own apron to work with. Here Jhara is helping me make chocolatecovered bananas for a snack. She chose her own apron and is proud of it.

Jhara is 17 and orphaned; her mother died when she was 23 days. She enjoys helping in the kitchen and is quick to learn

Jhara

Nigeria

other skills such as bracelet weaving and beading. She loves poetry. You will see her with a notebook and pen, composing lines any time of the day.

Jhara needs a permanent foster home. Please pray that God will open doors for her so that she can leave the centre and yet be adequately be cared for.

Her story is one of many, and it shows how the Centre’s work is needed.

Darlene Olfert

Darlene and Lester Olfert (Steinbach EFC) serve with Action International.

Walking down memory lane

One of the gifts God gives us is to return to where we have lived a significant part of our lives. Walking down various memory lanes in Nigeria in October had a deep impact on us (after two weeks of the SIM Nigeria Review).

We walked across the playground toward Mount Sanderson and down to the dam at the boarding school where our kids spent years of their lives.

We remembered the pain of leaving our kids there, but we also thought of birthday parties and pancake breakfasts we enjoyed. With the recent death of one of the few remaining SIM teachers at Kent Academy, Jim Crouch, we reflected with gratefulness on the impact this godly man and others, both at Kent Academy and Hillcrest School had on our children.

What was a delightful surprise was that now with cell phones, our former students connected with each other and organized two reunions (we used to teach at a Nigerian Secondary School and an Advanced Teachers College, training high school teachers). Some of them had not seen each other for 30 years so the joy of the reunion was as great for them as for us.

SIM is placing a concentrated focus on working with youth and children

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

and on mentoring and discipleship. The importance of this became clear to us as we met our former students. We had had the privilege of living on the campuses where we taught.

This provided a wide variety of opportunities of being involved in the students’ lives, whether campus ministries, baptism instruction classes and baptisms, Christmas programs, Christian Charm courses, or counseling in dating and marriage.

Our former students shared how our daily modeling of the Christian life had a profound impact on their lives and who they had become.

Their testimonies of having been solidly grounded in Bible (Christian Religious Knowledge classes) and the resulting character development were rewarding. They shared how our daily modeling of the Christian life had a profound impact on their lives and who they had become.

How we praised God for the oppor-

tunity we had to help shape their lives! Little did they know how young and inexperienced we were and little did we realize how closely we were being watched and emulated. To God be the glory!

We also had not realized how much our return visit would mean to our former students, friends, and colleagues.

Reminiscing over pounded yam and egusi soup and fried plantain gave us an appreciation for where God had led them into strategic places of influence in education, government, law offices, church, and community leadership.

We were amazed at how they had grown and now were raising families, some already in university. We cried with those who had lost loved ones. We were saddened to hear of those who had chosen not to follow Jesus.

These former students reminded us that they were no longer small boys and would take care of us in our needs for transport to different places or pay for our meals and accommodation.

Elmer and Elvira Warkentin Elmer and Elvira Warkentin (Steinbach EMC) have served with SIM since 1974, including in Nigeria (1974–1987).

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with our churches

Workers leave, infants graduate Blumenort, Man.: Mary Beth Penner is busy making plans to return to Southern Peru as a fulltime worker with SIM (Serving In Mission). She hopes to be involved in church planting.

Doug and Yvonne Hill are both planning to teach TESOL for one year. They found out that they had underestimated the amount of paperwork there was to fill out.

They left in late fall.

There is a lot of good news to report from Eagle Lake Bible Camp. This year Blumenort and Vermillion Bay churches ran their camps together. While there were a few minor issues, by and large there was great unity among camp staff.

Most campers seemed to have had a wonderful time.

This year there were over 30 kids at the Whitedog Teens Camp. Of those kids, quite a few of them responded to the altar call given by speaker Greg Bohanan. The option of baptism was given and five teens received it. Erin Toews was also baptised at Eagle Lake.

There were quite a few decisions made to follow Christ during the other weeks that the camp was run. Let us be glad for those that made decisions and keep them in our prayers.

September 7, 2008, marked the first of many graduations for 15 of our young children, who graduated from Cradle Roll.

May God give wisdom to the parents as they seek to raise their children to follow Him! Anika Joy Olvera was not present at the graduation ceremony. She had a bad fall and was injured to the point where she was in a cast that won’t allow her to move her head at all.

With workers going, decisions being made for Christ, and new parents seeking to raise their children for the Lord, we can all have a part to play. We can all send, encourage, or pray. Let’s all do our part.

Martin Penner

weddings FEHR – PENNER: Alan Fehr and Christal Penner were married on October 4, 2008, in Steinbach, Man. MIELKEN – DRIEDGER: Tanner, son of Roland and Susan Mielken, and Cynthia, daughter of Doug and Joan Driedger, were married on September 27, 2008, in Burns Lake, B.C, with Pastor Francis Rouvinez officiating. The couple lives in Burns Lake.

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Cradle Roll graduates: (back) Donna and Andy Wiebe with Breydan, Annette Thiessen with Dylan, Bob and Megan Pike with Tyson, Russ and Amy Plett with Jude; (middle) Allan and Myra Brydges with Ethan, Heather Bergen with Isaiah, Renae and Lydell Brandt with Carlee and Corey; (front) Marc and Debbie deKlein with Marcus, Marc and Pam Engbrecht with Reegan, Sheldon and Melanie Penner with Justus, and Jacob and Ruth Giesbrecht with Zavery.

Not shown are Anikka Joy Olvera, daughter of Jon and Trish; Adrian Marcus deKlein, son of Marc and Debbie; and Breydan Zane Wiebe, son of Andy and Donna.

Club held and 50 years celebrated Pelly, Sask.: The summer has quickly passed and here we find ourselves in the autumn season with winter quickly approaching. Our praise and thanks go to our Heavenly Father as we reflect, daily, on his goodness, but with this, comes a responsibility, as God’s people to share His love and provisions with others. May we be found faithful in this!

In mid-July a Five Day Club was held by Child Evangelism and then followed by Vacation Bible School in mid-August. The theme was Cosmic City: Exploring the Great Wonders of God. Both were well attended and many children received bible teaching during the summer.

Long time members Clifton and Sylvia Abrahamson celebrated their 50th Anniversary on August 30 at the farm yard where they made their home for many years and where one of their sons now live.

Their 11 children were home for the occasion, from Papua New Guinea, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan; and all their grandchildren were in attendance. It was a joyous occasion. The weather was perfect for an outdoor event. The family put on a short program, which was much enjoyed. Much socializing took place while partaking in the selection of food that was served.

Vivian Anfinson

Cosmic City Vacation Bible School

Clifton and Sylvia Abrahamson celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. The cake is in the form of a blossoming tree; a cupcake was decorated by each grandchild.

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

PEC holds VBS at Treherne

Portage la Prairie, Man.: From August 11–15 five of us from PEC (Portage Evangelical Church) youth group—my dad (Les Kroeker, youth pastor), Andrew Warthe, Matthew Wilms, Stuart Enns, and I—were in Treherne teaching Vacation Bible School.

We went there not really knowing anyone or what to expect. We had all been involved in children’s ministry previously to this, so that in itself wasn’t new.

The beginning of the week was off to a slow start and we didn’t really have a lot of kids. My dad was doing his own session for youth there. He wasn’t quite sure things would be beneficial; the youth didn’t seem to want to be there.

By mid-week things were getting into routine and a few more kids began attending.

Everyone was interacting really well with each other, and the kids couldn’t wait to come to the next day of VBS. We had a Power Lab theme. The kids had a week full of singing, wacky works crafts and missions, Bible blast stories, snacks, games, and cinema science.

We also took turns joining the youth with my dad. At first, it was pretty tough to interact with them, but it was amazing how well we got along with them by the end of the week. We also had an opportunity to share part of our testimonies with them. Their attitudes had greatly changed and they want us to come back.

We had a great time hanging out there that week; we had lots of water fights no matter where we were. We had a good time around the campground too. We went swimming lots at the pool there,

had ice cream cones, and played frisbee and football. We had evening campfires to cook over and sing worship songs around along with the guitar.

Some kids from VBS were pretty much always around us. At our campground and at the pool, they loved hanging out with us.

Taking time to be there was definitely worthwhile, and it was rewarding to see the end results.

Jessica Kroeker

Taking time to be there was definitely worthwhile, and it was rewarding to see the end results.

births ROUVINEZ – to Francis and Alix Rouvinez of Burns Lake, B.C., a son, Joel, on May 22, 2008.

MARKUS – to Ryan Markus and Lindsey Rempel of Austin, Man., a daughter, Karlee Shaye, on February 23, 2008.

REMPEL – to Sean Rempel and Adrienne Janzen of Calgary, Alta., a son, Joshua Alexander, on March 6, 2008.

MOORE – to David and Jenna Moore of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Chloe Anna, on March 3, 2008.

MOORE – to Chris and Crystal Moore of MacGregor, Man., a son, Cole Aaron, on April 20, 2008.

ARSENAULT – to Trevor and Jody Arsenault of Steinbach, Man., a daughter, Emily Jane, on July 17, 2008.

PENNER – to Roland and Jennifer Penner of Steinbach, Man., a son, Kyreece Samuel, on October 4, 2008.

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

Heppners head to Bolivia Braeside (Winnipeg, Man.): Kathy, Carl, Asha, Kezia and Joel Heppner left for Santa Cruz, Bolivia, in September 2008 to begin a three-year term with MCC. They are guesthouse hosts and provide, among other responsibilities, emotional, physical and spiritual support for MCC workers and visitors. They request prayer for a comfortable transition to life in a new climate, culture, and community.

Al Dueck

11

EMC and

Statement of Faith Church Practices A 25-part series

The Board of Leadership and Outreach has invited EMC pastors and writers to reflect on the meaning of our Statement of Faith and Church Practices. These writings are intended to inform and to invite conversation.

In the end, this 25-part series might be published as a booklet. Have you heard a sermon on these articles? Encourage the preacher to forward the material to The Messenger.

3. THE CREATION We believe that God created everything as revealed in Scripture (Genesis 1–2; Exodus 20:11; Nehemiah 9:6; Job 38–39; Psalm 8; Mark 10:6; John 1:3; Colossians 1:15–17; Romans 11:33–36; Hebrews 1:1–3).

Gil and Renita Rempel

Statement of Faith Article 3: The Creation

O

ne of the privileges of living outside our Canadian borders is being able to enjoy more diversity in God’s creation.

We especially enjoy photography here in Paraguay. Whether it is taking pictures of birds, flowers, glowing worms, toads five times the size of our Manitoba toads, or the majestic water falls of Yguazu, the list could go on and on.

God’s creation is endlessly fascinating, and that speaks to the character of our God. The story of creation speaks foundationally to who we believe God is and who we believe we are in relation to Him. What do we as a Conference believe about creation? Our Statement of Faith says: “We believe that God created everything as revealed in Scripture.” The question then becomes, what do we believe the Scriptures to reveal about creation?

God is sovereign and has ultimate authority over all His creation.

The design of His creation brings glory to Himself as it gives visible testimony to His wisdom, power, and creativity.

Although the Scriptures do not give a scientific account of creation, there are outstanding truths with deep ramifications. We understand Scripture to teach that God is the only author and giver of all life. He is sovereign and has ultimate authority 12

over all His creation. The design of His creation brings glory to Himself as it gives visible testimony to His wisdom, power, and creativity.

The creation account also teaches that humankind is made in the image of God, therefore set apart from other living beings in creation. These, among others, are foundational truths that shape our faith and world view, thus profoundly affecting every aspect of our lives.

There is no doubt that these core beliefs are constantly being challenged by other views. In secular society the creation story and science are often pitted against each other.

True science, however, and a proper interpretation of the scripture do not, and indeed cannot, contradict each other since both are authored by our omniscient God. We affirm our Statement of Faith regarding creation. However, it seems to speak more to what we believe about scriptures, namely that “they are the supreme and final authority in all matters of faith and conduct,” than about God and creation itself.

Should we not consider expanding briefly our Statement of Faith regarding what we believe to be the fundamental truths that Scripture teaches regarding God’s creation, as opposed to merely stating that the Scriptures do teach T about creation? M Gil and Renita Rempel serve as EMC crosscultural workers in Paraguay.

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

REV. DAVID K. SCHELLENBERG 1917–2008

With family by his side, during the early evening hours of Thursday, November 6, 2008, and after a brief illness, our father, grandfather and greatgrandfather passed away peacefully and entered his heavenly home.

Left to cherish fond memories, are: son Gordon, wife Diana; son Gary, wife Val; daughter Carolyn Joy Hildebrand, husband Wayne; daughter Ruth Martens, husband Eric; son Danny; daughter Arlene Riediger, husband Al; grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Karlana Reimer, husband David, children Natalya and Tristan; Krista Friesen, husband Nathan, children Kai and Navi; Kevin Schellenberg, wife Melodie; David Schellenberg, wife Leanne, children Jenelle and Riley; Jo Dee Rempel, husband Tim, son Cole; Lisa Gillespie, husband Scott; James Riediger, wife Sheila, daughter Cadence; Tania Bueckert, husband Danny.

Dave was predeceased by his son David Leroy in 1950 and beloved wife Helen in 2002. He is survived by his brother William.

Dave, born in Steinbach, Man., on July 26, 1917, was a humble and compassionate man who devoted his life to God and family. Dave and Helen, his wife of 62 years, served in the mission field in both Saskatchewan and northern Manitoba.

In the 1950s Dave worked at Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach for a number of years, serving both as an orderly and as administrator. In the 1960s he and Helen started a church in Portage la Prairie, Man., where, along with family, they lived for six years.

In addition, Dad served as editor of The Messenger (the EM Conference publication) for 25 years, a position that he greatly enjoyed. Many a grandchild graced the cover of the magazine.

Throughout his life Dave pursued learning. In 1985 Dad attained his

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

Bachelor of Religious Studies (BRS) degree at Steinbach Bible College. An excerpt from one of his journals reads: “I doubt there was a prouder graduate than was 67-year-old Dave Schellenberg, when in 1985, he received his BRS.” Another memorable time in Dad’s life came when he was awarded the distinction of Archivist Emeritus while working as the archivist for the EM Conference, a vocation he greatly enjoyed.

Our father had a passion for photography for much of his life. Back in the 1950s he would avidly develop black and white photos in our bathroom.

Often the vinegary smell of photographic chemicals could be detected coming from his home-made lab.

During the last 20 years of his life, Dave took an interest in computers and digital photography. He loved to take

REV. EDWIN K. FRIESEN 1944–2008

Edwin K. Friesen of Landmark, Man., was ushered into the presence of God on Thursday, October 23, 2008, at 64 years of age.

Edwin had been ill six weeks prior to suffering a massive heart attack and, therefore, emergency open heart surgery at St. Boniface Hospital on October 9, 2008. As family we are grateful for the two weeks we had with him after surgery, caring and loving him as our cherished husband and dad.

Grieving his passing are Lily, his wife of 43 years, and three children and their spouses: Sheryl (Lloyd) and their children Brady and Tyson Plett; Lyndon (Karen) and their children Dana and Marcus Friesen; Jennifer (Camden) and their children Jameson and Caleb Rempel.

He is also fondly remembered by his family of four brothers, Peter, Paul (Barb), Jake, Arnie (Judy); and five sisters, Esther (Andrew Dueck), Helen (Arden

pictures of his family and the wonders of God’s creations, especially sunsets. His latter years saw him publish numerous memoirs on the computer and develop a much loved blog site for all of us to enjoy.

We will dearly miss our father, grandfather and great-grandfather. We are all so thankful that his illness was brief prior to his passing. After all, a week before he left us he was motoring around Steinbach on his scooter. God bless him in his heavenly home.

The family would like to thank Dr. Kaethler and the nursing staff at Bethesda Hospital for ensuring Dad’s comfort in his last days.

Dave’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will miss him dearly.

His Family

Thiessen), Margaret (Walter Reimer), Doris, and Irma (Bernie Thiessen).

Edwin was born on July 17, 1944. He was predeceased by his parents Jacob and Katherine, his sister Lydia, and his son Ken. Our Dad shared spiritual guidance, encouragement, and prayers throughout our lives. He took a special interest in each grandchild and they in turn loved him dearly.

He was a communicative man, moving among people with great warmth and compassion. His ability to see the positive and often a bigger picture is imprinted on our hearts. Dad’s greatest desire was to further the Kingdom of God. In a variety of EM churches and as EM Conference Pastor, Dad provided stable and capable leadership. The last 13 years he worked for Mennonite Foundation of Canada, where he often counseled people on wills or financial crises. Dad loved people, and this last work chapter allowed him to still preach, teach, write, and work with people in many different churches.

We believe that it is with great joy and pride that Dad was presented to Christ our Father.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing (2 Timothy 4:7–8).

His Family

13

MCC to end shipping of used clothing Mennonite Central Committee will discontinue shipping used clothing overseas in 2009.

This is because of higher shipping costs, environmental concerns, and the possibility of purchasing items closer to their destination. But material resource centres will continue to be an essential part of MCC’s work.

Material resource centres will stop accepting used clothing for overseas shipments by the end of 2008. Some centres may accept used clothing to resell, distribute locally, or use in projects such as rug-making. Contact the material resource centre in your province or region for information.

MCC

JOHN W. LOEWEN 1926–2008

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23:6).

Surrounded by his family, John Loewen passed away at the Arborg Hospital on Sunday, September 14, 2008, at the age of 82 years.

He will always be remembered by his family: Mary and Leonard Reimer, Three Hills; Elsie, Arborg; Rudy and Elda, Arborg; Doris and Elmer Dueck, Sexsmith; Norma and Glenn Plett, Arborg; daughter-in-law Arlene, Fisher Branch; Milton and Lorna, Fisher Branch; Susan and Alvin Plett, Arborg; Laura and Cornelius Friesen, Raymond; Roselyn and John Dueck, Arborg; Johnnie and Emily, Arborg; 38 grandchildren plus 19 spouses and 18 great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife Susie on September 16, 2007; and by one son, Lloyd; three grandchildren Veronica, Evangeline and Chad; his parents’ two brothers and four sisters.

John was born on March 14, 1926, in Rosenort, Man. His mother passed away

14

coming events January 11, 2009 EMC Day of Prayer Pray for EMC missionaries around the world Your church 204-326-6401 www.emconf.ca

January 22–24, 2009

At MCC’s Material Resource Center in Ephrata, Pa., volunteers Ivan Reiff, left, and Nelson Oberholtzer stack boxes of canned turkey for shipment to people affected by flooding in Mozambique.

(Photo by Brenda Burkholder)

Refreshing Winds: Worship come to its senses Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. 204-487-3300 or 877-231-4570 dhiebert@cmu.ca www.cmu.ca/conferences.html

January 30–February 1, 2009 when he was two months old. His father remarried and so, after being cared for by another family for 18 months, he rejoined his siblings on the family farm. He attended school until the end of Grade 7 and then had to withdraw because of a serious leg injury.

John made a decision to follow Christ as a young man. He was baptized and joined Rosenort Evangelical Mennonite Church on July 2, 1944, at the age of 18.

John served as a Conscientious Objector during World War 2 at a pulp camp in Savannah, Ont. During the time that John was in Ontario, he was exchanging letters with Susie Siemens.

Their relationship continued to grow when he returned to Rosenort and on October 27, 1946, Mom and Dad were married. They were blessed with 11 children—four sons and seven daughters.

Their life of family and farming began in Rosenort followed by a move to Fisher Branch in 1962. The move was made to expand the farm for the growing family and to share his love for Jesus. Dad’s Salvation Testament was always in his pocket wherever he went.

Dad poured a lot of his life into farming.

He was a turkey farmer for many years, but also farmed cattle, chickens, and grain. In the 1990s he and Susie started a one-acre strawberry farm on their yard.

He enjoyed the challenge of working with his hands and watching things grow.

Our Dad had many interests. We have memories of the many trips Mom and Dad took to visit family in Mexico, Belize, Alberta, and Nova Scotia, and the hours he spent doing yard work. The grandchildren remember that Grandpa always had a library and was constantly

Break Forth Canada The largest equipping and renewal conference in North America Speakers include: Phil Callaway, John Eldredge, Frank Peretti, and more Edmonton, Alta.

780-417-5082 info@breakforthministries.com www.breakforthcanada.com

March 13–14, 2009 SBC Leadership Conference Growing Bible Savvy People Speaker: Dr John Neufeld Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. 204-326-6451 www.sbcollege.ca

July 3–5, 2009 EMC Annual Convention Radical Discipleship: Increasing the Kingdom’s footprint in our world Speaker: Dr. Pierre Gilbert Riverton Recreation Centre Riverton, Man. 204-326-6401 www.emconf.ca

adding new books to it. He loved to read.

Dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa.

We will miss you, but we are so happy that you are where you want to be—safe in the arms of Jesus with loved ones by your side.

The family wishes to thank the caring residents and staff at the Mary Thorarinson Estates (Assisted Living Centre), and the staff at the Arborg District and Health Centre. Thanks also to the friends and neighbours who dropped by to visit him.

His Family

THE MESSENGER December 3, 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 Th iessen, Elders Board Chair, at 204-238-4443 or RR1, Bowsman, MB R0L 0H0.

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

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.

LEAMINGTON EMMC seeks a full-time senior pastor to minister to a large and growing congregation. Located in the most southern part of Ontario, Leamington was voted Canada’s number 1 place to live in 2006 by MoneySense Magazine. Our church has many strong committees and programs in place, including a church council and a vibrant Sunday School program.

Our congregation is made up of both Low German- and English-speaking members, and consists of mostly young families. We feature two weekly worship services: a modern English service and a distinctly Low German service. Th is position is available to start in 2009. Fluency in Low German is an asset. To apply or for information, please contact pst@lemmc.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, WYMARK EMC, a country church located 20 miles two languages and growing. southeast of Swift Current, Sask., is accepting Can you contribute long-term or interim, applications for lead pastor. We aim to be a full-time or part-time, sharing in roles of friendly, family-welcoming church body of 70 to 90 administrative leadership, preaching/teaching, people, and seek a pastor who can encourage us worship coordination, leadership development, by word and example to grow to maturity in Christ. and outreach?

Enquiries can be directed to the Pastoral Search Register early—before February 20, 2009 • $50/person Do29,you an Anabaptist understanding and Committee at 306-773-9089 (leave a message) or after February 2008have • $60/person group rate for 3 or more from one church • $40/person training of the Bible, love for people, love for God funkfarm@gmail.com (Paul Funk). and passion for ministry in a church setting? Or Call Christal at SBCa 1-204-326-6451 MORRIS FELLOWSHIP Chapel (EMC), Register locatedonline www.sbcollege.ca doatyou know someone who does? Contact Dan in Morris, Man., is looking for a full-time pastor Rempel or Abe Harms at Aylmer EMMC in Ontario for a congregation of about 120. Previous pastoral (serve@aemmc.ca). Check out our vision at www. experience and leadership abilities are assets. For aemmc.ca. job description and information, please call Brian VALLEY VIEW Bible Camp (CSSM), near Klassen at 204-746-8102.

MacGregor, Man., seeks an assistant camp RESERVE FELLOWSHIP Chapel (EMC), located in manager/director. The manager should have Sioux Valley (west-central Man.), seeks a fullmanagerial experience, a background in Christian time pastoral couple to serve the church and to camping, be capable of general maintenance, develop long-term relationships with people of interact well with the public, and work well with the the community. Direct inquiries to church planting manager/director. VVBC has a strong camping and coordinator Ward Parkinson, 204-326-6401, retreat ministry. Salary to be negotiated. Contact e-mail: wparkinson@emconf.ca.

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

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, with Dr. John Neufeld located in central Sask., close to the Manitoba border. Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306-595-2074.

E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship. com.

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

R W

efreshing inds 2009

Worship Come To Its Senses January 22–24, 2009 Keynote Speakers: Don Saliers and Doug Gay

CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY

500 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2 204.487.3300 | www.cmu.ca

MENNONITE FOUNDATION of Canada 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.

MFC also seeks a second full-time stewardship consultant to work in its Winnipeg, Man., office. This person will be responsible to provide charitable gift and estate planning services and to promote biblical stewardship of financial resources in the CMC, EMC, EMMC, and EMCC in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

The successful candidates 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 position is filled. Submit resumes to Erwin Warkentin, General Manager, 12-1325 Markham Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6, Ph. 800-772-3257, fax 204488-1986, e-mail ewarkentin@ mennofoundation.ca, web www. mennofoundation.ca.

Register early—before February 20, 2009• $50/person

after February 20, 2009 • $60/person group rate for 3 or more from one church • $40/person

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

THE MESSENGER December 3, 2008

MANAGER (1.0) and food services coordinator (.5) required for Camp Moose Lake, a small, well maintained, year-round facility in southeastern Manitoba operated by Mennonite Church Manitoba. Skills and abilities required in hosting, menu planning, food preparation, facility and equipment maintenance in an isolated setting, fi nancial management, encouragement. Full job descriptions available at www. campswithmeaning.org. Contact Director of Camping Ministries at 204-895-2267 or camps@ mennochurch.mb.ca

15

Africa

Out of fear…into

W

Evelyn Barkman

e were playing outside when we stumbled across the fine, green powder. A curious nine-year-old, I tasted the substance as my cousin watched. “That stuff can kill you,” she said. “Now you’re going to die.”

I was terrified at her words. Was it possible a bit of pesticide on my tongue was enough to kill me? Her taunts caused the fear of death and the afterlife I’d been repressing to rise. This encounter was to be the first of many in my life between human anxiety and divine assurance.

Frightened, I sought comfort from my mother. Instead of dismissing my fear as irrational, she clearly explained the gospel to me. Christ’s sacrifice would guarantee my eternal salvation, making me bold in the face of death, and I had to do was accept. Accept, I did.

Several years later, the battle between fear and faith would go a second round. As a 17-year-old woman I wanted to commend my life to the Lord, but I wasn’t sure how to do so. Sensing a life of sacrifice ahead, I again faced fears that had been brewing below the surface.

How could I be sure my desire to serve the Lord was genuine? I must be ready to serve Him regardless of the cost. If I could accept my three most terrifying conditions that commitment to the Lord might require, I knew I could serve him forever in any capacity.

If I could accept my three most terrifying conditions that commitment to the Lord might require, I knew I could serve him forever in any capacity.

One year turned into three, and before long I was assigned to lead a group dedicated to praying for Muslims. Again, I felt the tension between my apprehension and God’s plan.

Throughout my time at Bible school, the idea of Muslim ministry frustrated me. Speakers in our chapels communicated that fruit was slow, without a great harvest. Now, it was my responsibility to pray for the Muslim world.

I had a decision: either be stubborn and refuse the assignment or let the Lord work in my heart, softening it for Muslim people. I chose the second and faithfully led the prayer group. By the end of the year I had decided I would go to a Muslim country with Avant.

I spent my entire career as a single missionary to Mali, teaching those who are culturally Muslim about Christ at Mana Girl’s School and Mana Bible Institute.

Have I ever regretted making that commitment to Christ when I was 17? Never.

There have been difficult times, but I have never been sorry that I followed Christ’s leading.

Had I allowed my fear to consume my faith at any juncture, I would not have been able to help young men and women of Mali find the same assurance in Christ that T had always buoyed me in my times of anxiety. M

Each condition built on the one before, each requiring a greater measure of trust. He might ask me to be a missionary, a missionary to Africa, a missionary to Africa who never marries.

For a month I struggled with these concepts. Daily Evelyn Barkman (Prairie I prayed God might relieve my anxiety and allow Rose) served for 37 me to embrace was seemed to me to be the ultimate years in Mali, Africa, sacrifice. After a month’s time I knew I had reached an with Avant Ministries. internal point of reconciliation. “Yes, Lord,” I said in She retired in 2007. This my prayer. “I would do these things for you.” article is reprinted with I never expected Him to take me up on my offer. permission from Avant It was imperative to me that I learn how to properly (issue 2, 2007). share my faith, so I attended a year of Bible school.

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