The Messenger Vol. 47 No. 13 July 15, 2009

THE

MESSENGER

We are

broken

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

volume 47, number 13 July 15, 2009

but not alone!

Faith beyond doubts

(p. 4)

(p. 7)

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

editorials

United in faith and mission

H

ow important are Conference and Convention?

That depends. Beyond the structural and political baggage these terms might carry, what remains?

What remains is being part of Christ’s Church and united in faith and mission. How important are these?

Jesus said, “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”(Mark 8:36).

He also said, “May they be brought to complete unity to let

the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as I have loved you” (John 17:24).

By Christ’s grace, the EMC is 61 churches in five provinces joined to strengthen congregational and collective efforts through dozens of ministries in Canada and dozens of other countries.

We are only a bit of the Anabaptist Church, which is only a bit of the Christian Church (the Church of the Nazarene claims more affiliate members than does Mennonite World Conference). But every bit helps! And unity starts somewhere.

Through Christ’s dying we live

and are bound together. Paul said it is of “first importance” that Christ died for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:1–6).

Together, by moving past our selfishness, we serve. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10). These words were challenging in statusconscious ancient Rome; they are challenging today.

Gone is Convention 2009 with its opportunity to display our unity in Christ and his mission. How did we T do? M Terry M. Smith

Let Christ’s people work in the service

D

r. Christine Longhurst recently served well by causing us to think about the worship service.

Liturgy means the work of the people. Perhaps some of our EMC worship services need more work.

During the service, do we explain why a particular order is chosen?

How are people greeted? What is the theology behind this?

Do hymns and songs span the centuries? Are we content with the current top 10 favourite choruses or hymns?

Do we pass on historic expres-

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Buhler

rbuhler@emconf.ca

Address changes and submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 14 – August 12 (copy due July 31)

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sions of faith? Do we (children, young people, older generations) say together The Lord’s Prayer and The Apostles’ Creed?

How is Scripture used? How much, and what, is read?

Do public readers of Scripture exhibit preparation and practice?

(To clearly read the beloved King James Version requires extra practice.)

Is preaching the Word upheld?

When does the sermon happen?

Why then?

When we confess our sins, is there an assurance of forgiveness?

THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith.

Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St., Steinbach, Man. Subscriptions: Canadian subscriptions are $24 for one year, $44 for two years,

Is there a pastoral prayer? Are there call-and-response prayers of the people?

Are their prayers for local, national, and international needs?

When we ask someone to lead in prayer, do they use “we” language or slip into “I” language?

All churches have a liturgy, often more involved than some leaders realize. How conscious of it are we?

What is it based on? (It’s too easy to simply say, “The Bible!”)

What do we call on all present to T do? M Terry M. Smith

$65 for three years (Manitoba residents add 7% PST); U.S. subscriptions are $30 for one year, $55 for two years, $82 for three years; all other countries are $45 for one year, $85 for two years, $125 for three years . Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents.

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THE

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

MESSENGER

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

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

letters Parents, friends, and church influence student choices

Letters to the Editor Letters published are generally to comment on issues raised in The Messenger.

Letters by hand or fax require a handwritten signature. All letters require a name, an address and a phone number.

Letters can be edited for length, clarity, legality, and taste. The focus of letters is to be on an issue, not a personality.

The views and opinions expressed by the writers are their own, and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference.

All publication of letters is subject to the policy approved January 2002 by the EMC Board of Church Ministries.

I want to commend John Longhurst for his article entitled Education and the Church’s Future [June 24, 2009]. If the church is to meet her future leadership needs, more of our students will need to be encouraged to attend a Christian college or university.

SBC would agree that parents, friends, and the church are the greatest influencers when it comes to helping students choose a college. When this “shoulder tapping” is combined with financial support and prayer, it can open the door to a life-changing experience.

Dr. Robert J. Reimer President, Steinbach Bible College

Summer reading for EMCers Barkman, Betty Annie: Through it all (2008) $10.95 Laina (2006) $13 Mary Blondina Barkman Contending for the Faith: A biography of Dr. Archie Penner, with excerpts from his writings (2002) Postage only Dueck, Erna Living with a Killer: Survivor of three primary cancers tells her story (2007) $22.95 Enns, L. Marie Preacher’s Kids on the Homestead (2005) $13

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

Janz, Aganetha Gretchen, Darkness to Dawn (2007) $15.95 Kroeker, Frank P. My Dad, Mr. Peter T. Kroeker as I remember him (2002) $7.50 Penner, Archie The New Testament, The Christian, and the State (1959; reprinted 2000) $10 Scientific Creationism in Perspective (2001) $10 The Divine Covenants: Conflict or Harmony (rev. 2002) $10 The Holy Spirit, the Scriptures, and Believers: A Trinitarian Perspective (2006) $10 The Gospel Revisited: The Good News and Radical Salvation (2007) $10

Peters, Doreen One Who Dared: Life Story of Ben D. Reimer, 1909–1994 (2005) $5 Thiessen, Arden Good News for a Broken World: Reflections on the Message of Romans (2007) $8 Keeping in Step with the God of Peace (2008) $15 The Biblical Case for Equality (2002) $12 The Church that Christ Builds: Reflections on the Letter to the Ephesians (2006) $8 Call the Conference office (204-3266401) or e-mail rbuhler@emconf.ca to order copies. Postage extra.

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Part two of a series

We are

broken but not alone!

A

s I write this, I have just finished reading a report on the life and death of Michael Jackson, North Korea’s threat to declare war on the U.S., and watched video of the brutal upheaval in Iran.

Reflecting on what was seen and heard, I can’t help but think that our world is desperately broken.

In our country, we would say that technology, finances or knowledge should bring about redemption. But as our country has become more affluent and knowledgeable over the past century, it seems our personal brokenness has become more apparent.

A recent study reported a paradox: Death rates among U.S. young people due to unintentional injuries, cancer, and heart disease have all fallen by about half since the 1950’s. And death rates overall have dropped by about half.

At the same time, homicide death rates among U.S. youth rose by more than 130 per cent and suicide rates (the third leading cause of death among U.S. young people at the time of the study) rose by nearly 140 per cent (Hardwired to Connect: The Scientific Case for Authoritative Communities, sponsored by YMCA of the USA, Dartmouth Medical School, and the Institute for American Values).

This past week I sat with more than one young person on the staff of a Bible camp and heard stories of brokenness through pornography, abuse, and divorce. We are broken!

Ancient hurt The Bible tells us that it is our sin that leaves us broken, and this brokenness began in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve. Scripture is clear that when God created man and woman, he created them in perfect relationship with each other and in perfect relationship with God. Genesis 1:25 says, “The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.” Adam and Eve were completely exposed to each other, and not just physically, and they felt absolutely no shame.

They were safe, they were intimate, they were

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Sid Koop

experiencing life and relationship exactly the way they were created for it.

Our students long for intimacy, for safe relationships. In Reginald Bibby’s latest research of teens across Canada, 86 per cent of teens view friendship as “very important” (their highest value) and 95 per cent report that they receive a “great deal” or “quite a bit” of enjoyment from their friends, again their greatest source of enjoyment (The Emerging Millennials: How Canada’s Newest Generation is Responding to Change and Choice). We were made for community.

Unfortunately, the perfect intimacy with God and others that Adam and Eve experienced did not last. In Genesis 3:1–13, we read the story of the temptation of Adam and Eve to quit trusting God, and begin to trust themselves, essentially to become God. And when they gave in to the temptation of the evil one and disobeyed God by eating fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for the first time Adam and Eve experienced brokenness in their relationship with God and in their relationship with each other.

In Genesis 3:8–9, it says, “Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

Here is the good news.

While our sin has left us broken, God has not left us!

walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’ He answered, ‘I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.’”

For the first time in history, man was ashamed of himself and afraid of God; and because of his sin, instead of running to God, he desperately tried to avoid Him. We live in this same reality. Our sin drives us to avoid God, usually in at least two ways.

We ignore God First, we try to ignore Him. We pretend He does not exist. Seventeen per cent of teens across Canada don’t think God exists and 16 per cent definitely reject the idea that God exists (Bibby, 166).

Compared with the mid-80s, this is a significant growth in the number of teens who say they do not believe in God. John 3:20 says, “Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.”

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We recreate Him The second way we ignore God is by recreating Him. We create a God who cares about what we do on Sunday morning, but not so much from Monday to Saturday. We compartmentalize our lives, and instead of submitting to the God that has been revealed in scripture, we make our own that essentially allows us to do whatever we want.

First John 1:5–6 says, “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth.”

Yet our sin does not just leave us broken in our relationship with God, but also in our relationship with each other.

The Genesis account goes on to say, “And he said, ‘Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?’ The man said, ‘The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.’ Then the Lord God said to the woman, ‘What is this you have done?’ The woman said, ‘The serpent deceived me, and I ate.’”

When both Adam and Eve were confronted with their sin, they responded the same way: they blamed and attacked others. Adam blamed and attacked Eve, and Eve blamed and attacked the serpent.

This is the foundation of so much relational brokenness. We blame and attack. Moms and Dads blame and attack, brothers and sisters blame and attack, friends blame and attack.

God’s plan was that we would serve and protect, but our sin has left us broken. This is our reality; our sin has left us broken, broken in our relationship with God and broken in our relationship with each other.

We’re not alone!

But here is the good news. While our sin has left us broken, God has not left us!

The rest of history is the story of God coming to us through His Son Jesus Christ; so that instead of brokenness, we could experience wholeness. By His wounds, we are healed!

T Stay tuned for the rest of the story. M Sid Koop, this year’s speaker at Abundant Springs, travels with Truth Matters Ministries and is parttime director of student ministries at the Evangelical Free Church of Lethbridge, Alta.

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Faith beyond doubts

Dr. Terry G. Hiebert

For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.

(1 Corinthians 1:25 NIV)

There’s something in every atheist, itching to believe, and something in every believer, itching to doubt.

W

(Mignon McLaughlin)

e toss in bed late at night, stare into the darkness and wonder. Big questions haunt our minds.

Why are we alive? Does God really exist? Why is God’s presence missing? Why so much evil? Why believe the Bible? Why is Jesus the only way? Why am I male or female?

Why so little justice and peace around? Why believe anything at all? We have been taught that the Bible has the answers and Jesus is the only way. We may feel ashamed to ask the big questions, because they reveal a lack of faith.

Swimming Rather than feeling embarrassed by the big questions, consider them as essential levels to achieve in learning to swim. Researchers in faith development tell us that there are at least four important levels in living by faith.

Rather than feeling embarrassed by the big questions, consider them as essential levels to achieve in learning to swim.

Brian McLaren summarizes the stages well.

Children have simple faith. Like playing in the shallow end of the pool they live with black and white answers given by teachers.

Youth encounter more complex faith. They are swimming and often not touching the bottom of the pool. Youth look for any experiences and reasons to keep them afloat.

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THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

Young adults can become perplexed by faith.

When the big questions remain unresolved many concede defeat and stop swimming.

Adults can swim with a more humble faith. They may have found some answers, but they realize that the pool of life is deep. Their faith in God gives hope to swim confidently even through mysterious times.

Will?

In my faith journey after a time of deep perplexity, I accepted the reality that even good answers produce more questions. The world is so complex that I can never “touch bottom.”

Learning to swim involves trust in essential truths about God. A faith beyond the questions involves the practice of offering our doubts as a sacrifice of faith in God. We do not trust in the answers, for answers may fail. We trust in God who never fails. Living by faith is an act of the mind, heart, and will. Without only some answers, faith becomes an act of the will—a choice.

Trapeze John Ortberg in Faith and Doubt considers the trapeze. There are three moves in the leap of faith— letting go, waiting, and being caught. God invites us to let go of our trapeze.

Our trapeze involves personal agendas like doubts, money, sin, relationships, habits, pride, or disobedience. After letting go, we wait.

There are three moves in the leap of faith— letting go, waiting, and being caught.

Ortberg says, “Waiting is the in-between time when I have responded to God but things are not yet the way I want them to be. I keep obeying. I keep on trusting. And I keep holding out my hands.” Then God finally catches us. We do nothing but wait to be caught.

Ortberg reflects on the time suspended in midair. “Disciples are not people who never doubt. They doubt and worship, doubt and serve, doubt and help each other with their doubts. They wait for their doubt one day to be turned into knowing.” Once we know, it’s no longer faith.

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Blindness In John’s Gospel, Thomas the doubter is a voice of the reader. Thomas needs to see in order to believe. When Jesus calls the disciples to visit Lazarus’ tomb, Thomas sees death but Jesus sees the possibility of new life (11:6). When Jesus shows the disciples his way to the Father, Thomas checks Google Maps (14:5).

In John’s Gospel, Thomas the doubter is a voice of the reader. When Jesus shows the disciples his way to the Father, Thomas checks Google Maps.

When Jesus appears to the disciples, they tell Thomas but he refuses to believe until he sees Jesus for himself (20:25). Finally Thomas sees the risen Jesus and gains insight into the divine Jesus.

John’s Gospel compares unbelief to premeditated blindness, and faith with spiritual insight (20:29).

Scientist Michael Polanyi suggests that blind persons know the world in ways similar to sighted persons. Blind persons have faith that a real world exists and trust in canes to see the world. They are personally committed to the truth of the world received through the cane. Do blind persons have the certainty of sighted persons? Perhaps not. But they reveal the meaning of faith in Hebrews.

Faith The writer of Hebrews 11:1 calls for God’s people to display bold faith. “Now faith is the substance (pledge, down payment, participation) of things hoped for, the proof (argument through cross examination) of things not seen.”

Luke T. Johnson explains the meaning of faith: “Faith acts on unseen things as though they were capable of being seen, because they are understood to be as real, or even more real, than things that can be ‘seen,’ that is, verified by the senses.” In Hebrews Jesus is answer to our questions of faith. He is the blind person’s cane to contact the invisible God. Sightings In a busy Washington DC subway station, on January 12, 2007, at 7:51 a.m., Joshua Bell, the world7

class violinist, arrived wearing each day I witnessed God’s Resources jeans, a T-shirt, and a baseball presence in the Bible, prayer, John Ortberg, Faith and cap. Bell set up like a busker and people, and events. I discovered Doubt (Zondervan, played on a 1713 Stradivarius that God “has not left himself 2008). worth $3.5 million. But this was no without a witness” (Acts 14:17 Timothy Keller, The Reason ordinary gig.

NRSV). for God (Dutton, 2008).

The Washington Post newspaper Oswald Chambers adds, “If we Brennan Manning, Ruthless had invited Bell to do an are obsessed by God, nothing Trust (Harper San experiment on hidden camera. else can get into our lives—not Francisco, 2000).

They wanted to know whether concerns, nor tribulation, nor Joshua Bell at the anyone would notice greatness in worries. And now we understand Washington Metro unconventional places. why our Lord so emphasized the www.youtube.com/ In 45 minutes Bell played sin of worrying. How can we dare watch?v=hnOPu0_ some of the world’s best music. to be so absolutely unbelieving YWhw Watching the video, Joshua when God totally surrounds us?”

Bell was most surprised by the number of people who did not pay any attention How? at all. A few had paused to watch but only one Mike Mason writes about joy, but he prodded me person recognized this world-class musician. Stacy to consider faith and doubt in a better way. At one Furukawa had attended Bell’s concert three weeks point in his life he decided to stop asking whether before. he would be joyful or not. Instead he would ask how While doubts about God’s love and presence he would be joyful that day. His experiment with joy continue, the people attending God’s concerts will was inspiring. recognize him. We worship because God has arrived I live with the realization that I have enough in Jesus and God is present through the Spirit. reasons for belief in Jesus. There Recently I recorded God sightings during an are always more questions, but experiment with 40 Days of Faith. To my surprise, now is the time to commit.

Once committed to a life of faith, the question is not if I will T trust in God today, but how. M

While doubts about God’s love and presence continue, the people attending God’s concerts will recognize him.

Dr. Pierre Gilbert, EMC convention speaker, mentioned his book Demons, Lies and Shadows: A plea for a return to text and reason (Kindred Productions, 2008) ISBN: 9781894791175. It is available through Kindred Productions, which mails anywhere (www. kindredproductions.com); tollfree 1-800-545-7322: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (CST). The book can also be ordered through local bookstores.

Canada Kindred Productions 1310 Taylor Ave Winnipeg, MB R3M 3Z6 Phone: 204-669-6575 Fax: 204-654-1865

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USA Kindred Productions PO Box 421 Goessel, KS 67053 Fax: (620) 947-3266

Dr. Terry G. Hiebert is Academic Dean and Professor of Theology/ General Studies at Steinbach Bible College.

Tired of the same recipes?

The cookbook Food for Fun and Fellowship contains a variety of recipes from EMCers across Canada. It is available from the Conference office for $16 (plus mailing). Contact 204326-6401 or rbuhler@emconf.ca.

Theodidaktos Journal for EMC theology and education

Copies of the April 2009 Journal are still available (at no cost). To receive a copy, call the Conference office at 204-326-6401 or e-mail rbuhler@emconf.ca.

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

with our missionaries 50 years in Paraguay

two of six

Radio ZP-30: A trusted friend serving a diverse audience In remembering EMC’s 50 years of ministry in Paraguay, we need to acknowledge the impact that Radio ZP30—The Voice of the Paraguayan Chaco— has had on the populace of the Chaco, and especially so on the numerous indigenous groups.

When the idea of a Christian radio station for the Chaco was born in 1965, it was primarily envisioned to be instrumental in reaching these mostlyilliterate groups, spread out far and wide, with the gospel and the teaching of God’s Word, in their own native tongues.

Of the nine different languages in which ZP-30 is broadcasting today, five are in native languages (Lengua, Chulupi’, Ayoreo, Guarani’, and Manjuy).

Ironically, no program has ever been aired in the Sanapana’ language.

Yet, it is obvious that the station, on the air since 1975, has been, and still is, serving a definite purpose. Radio ZP-30 was intended by the EMC to be instrumental in facilitating the various Chaco mission organizations, churches, Colonies, native and national churches, in furthering their objective ministries— and it has. Today, the majority of the peoples of the Chaco still claim: “We could not envision existing in the Chaco without Radio ZP-30!”

Although competition from other radio stations has mounted in recent years, ZP30, with its 25 kilowatts of power during daytime operations, can now defend itself better as well.

Part-time broadcasts from its two remote studios, one in

Radio ZP-30 operates in the Paraguayan Chaco.

Loma Plata and the other in Yalwe Sanga, has also facilitated more live—and more actual—broadcasting.

Follow-up teams are also constantly covering the vast Chaco area, checking on response from listeners; giving spiritual counseling and then helping them connect with their appropriate churches. Radio ZP-30 is their “friend,” is generally reliable, and is known for telling the truth. However, trying to reach, or satisfy, such a diverse audience remains an ever-increasing challenge.

In 1990, the radio station became autonomous, when its ownership was transferred from the EMC to Radio ZP-30’s own legal charter, henceforth owned and

The majority of the peoples of the Chaco claim: “We could not envision existing in the Chaco without Radio ZP-30!”

Radio ZP-30 broadcasts in nine different languages.

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operated by the three Chaco Colonies, Menno, Fernheim and Neuland.

By the mid-90s EMC had withdrawn itself completely from any financial support, administration or involvement, closing the chapter of their unique role as catalyst between the three Chaco colonies in the harmonious working together in this project.

Currently, the recently-appointed director, Helmut Giesbrecht, is optimistic and determined in pursuing the missionoriented objective of the station and sees it as an ongoing effective tool for evangelism and the proclamation of God’s Word, for whatever time the future may yet hold.

Today, after 50 years, looking primarily at the Chaco chapter, we may need to pause and ask ourselves: “Has EMC’s engagement in missions in Paraguay, with its investment of lives, health, energy, tears, sweat, and funds, been worth it? Have we been faithful, and done justice to our calling? Have we been faithful to our role in the Chaco? Or is there still something left for us to do?”

Frank Kroeker Note: A longer article is available from the Conference office.

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with our missionaries Grand Rapids, Man.

For the harvest: Youth workers needed!

Grand Rapids lies at the mouth of the Saskatchewan River. It is a community of about 1,100 people, living off of fishing, trapping, and working for Manitoba Hydro.

The winter harvest of fish for the local fishers has, of course, ended, but there is another harvest which is ongoing. I am thinking about the harvest of souls.

That’s where we as missionaries come to seed and water and sometimes harvest. We had a team of such workers come in January for five days, to tell children and adults about Jesus and to get to know another culture.

Steinbach Bible College students— Matthew, Tony, Cassandra, and Allison—came to share the love of Jesus. They did this in a variety of ways. They visited the elders SBC students serving in Grand Rapids had the opportunity to try ice fishing and watch a dog sled race. and shut-ins, they encouraged the Christians, and they taught and enjoyed the children.

They gained respect for the hard work One evening we all went to the school commercial fishermen do, and they also for a gym night with some of the local brought home fish for supper, freshly teenagers. Sunday we had a community taken from nets pulled out from under church service. It was good to have the the ice. students participate. That same evening Since this was the time of our Winter they went to on local TV with an hour- Festival, the students had the privilege long Gospel program. of watching a sled dog race and spent One day the students had the time informally with the children. opportunity to try fishing first-hand.

These students showed a genuine

It would be good to have youth workers year-round, otherwise we will lose this next generation. Jesus tells us to pray for more workers. Would you pray with us?

love for the children. No wonder these kids didn’t want them to leave.

Some are so hungry for love and affirmation.

None of the churches in Grand Rapids have a Sunday School because of a lack of workers. To ensure that the children get some Bible teaching we like to bring in church youth groups in summer for Vacation Bible School and a Day Camp in July.

It would be good to have youth workers year-round, otherwise we will lose this next generation. Young people need to know about Jesus so that they can choose the Christian path. Jesus tells us to pray for more workers. Would you pray with us?

If you, or your church group, could come and minister with us, we would like to hear from you.

Fred Neff

Fred and Stella Neff serve under Continental Mission. This article is reprinted from Continental Reflections (April 2009).

School ministry

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(photos provided by SBCers)

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with our churches

Rosenort Fellowship is encouraged!

Rosenort Fellowship (Man.): May our Lord Jesus Christ…encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word (2 Thess. 2:16–17).

Baptisms are always an encouragement not only to the candidates but also to the church as a whole. Rosenort Fellowship has had two baptisms. On December 14, 2008, Heather Plett gave her testimony of a renewed faith and desire to live closer to the Lord. She was baptized and received as a member of RFC. On May 31, 2009, six young people also took the step of obedience in following the Lord in water baptism. Their testimonies revealed how God had touched their individual hearts and gave them a passion to live for Him. They are Brock Cornelsen, Chelsea Klassen, Jessica Moreau, Bryce Siemens, Madison Siemens, and Kyla Thiessen. Encouraging!

It is encouraging to see so many of our young people sitting in the front pews every Sunday morning and many of them participating in our worship team.

However, on May long weekend many faces were missing. Our pastoral couple John and Tina Driedger and Harv and Jeanine Schellenberg accompanied our young people to Abundant Springs in Caronport.

They all returned encouraged with a lifechanging and spiritually refreshing time at the retreat.

Our congregation has active Care Groups. We find joy and encouragement as we fellowship and serve together. Our group, led by Neil and Judy Schellenberg, has discovered that we love to sing together and use that as an outreach to encourage others in Care Homes, Siloam Mission, or as a worship team in church.

Our leaders are always looking for various and unique ways to serve.

As in previous winters, five RFC couples volunteered their services of construction and cleaning homes at the SIM retirement village in Sebring, Florida. It was encouraging when the village residents celebrated Art and Rose Cornelsen’s 20th winter of volunteering there.

RFC has had a busy spring schedule.

We were again encouraged on Good Friday with Communion, reminding us of Jesus’ death on the cross and the awful price he paid to redeem us to Himself. On May 2 a father/son breakfast featured Rolf Kruse as special speaker.

Mother’s Day had the congregation gather for a brunch during which the younger Sunday School students gave their cute tributes to their moms. On

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May 24 we were treated to beautiful renditions of those wonderful old hymns by the Keenager choir. Thank you, that also was encouraging!

It is great to have the Rolf and Angela Kruse family in our midst after many difficult years in Ethiopia as SIM missionaries. Their work among the refugees came to an end and now they’re taking a year off to prepare for a new assignment as they pray and wait for the Lord to direct their future. They challenged and encouraged us with a report on April 16.

Rose Cornelsen

Heather Plett was baptized by Pastor John Driedger and her husband Ryan on December 14, 2008.

Six young people were baptized on May 31, 2009. Pastor John Driedger (left) stands with them.

A day at the park Fort Frances, Ont.: The Fort Frances Evangelical Fellowship Church spent a gorgeous, sunny day at the park. On Sunday, June 14, we had our Sunday School wind-up, church service, and picnic.

There was much to celebrate. The weather was picture perfect, sunny with a little breeze and warm.

It was the perfect Sunday to include guests and many came. (continued on p. 12)

Children’s actvities

Pastor Jeff Plett makes announcements.

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with our churches (continued from p. 11)

The service followed a different format than usual. It consisted of testimonies interspersed with music, different announcements, a children’s feature given by Kristen Friesen, and a word from Sunday School superintendent Chris Rittau.

Testimonies were given by Nancy Gobeil, Bernie Martens, Ike Friesen, and Mark Gerber. The music was led by Rebecca Himanen, Laural Ann Plett, and Mary Fehr.

After the service men fired up the grills and in no time flat the burgers were ready to eat. Women brought salads and chips to share. What a feast to share with friends on this lovely day. Many people commented on the perfection of the day.

Our secret dessert was banana splits with yummy toppings, even the cherry on top. Wow, what a treat!

After dessert Rebecca Himanen and Mary Fehr organized games with the children.

It appeared that the best part, for the children, seemed to be when they were armed with water balloons seeking parental targets. Thankfully not all the balloons found their mark; some bounced off and some missed entirely.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and eventually so did our picnic.

One last sweep of the park and it was over.

We thank the Lord for the gorgeous weather, the fellowship of our church family and friends, and the close of another successful year of Sunday School.

Yvonne Friesen

Music was a part of the worship service.

Dedication, membership, and commissioning Kleefeld, Man.: Our church family promised to support and to encourage the three couples who dedicated their children to the Lord on May 24. Together with them, we pray that these children will be blessed and will grow up to honour and glorify Christ in their lives.

On June 14 nine new names were added to our membership list through baptism or membership transfer. We were encouraged and inspired by the testimonies given by these young people. May God richly bless your lives

as you continue to follow Him! Kleefeld EMC has a long history of sending missionaries out into the field.

Having finished language study courses, Dallas and Tara Wiebe, together with their young sons Carter and Logan, are preparing to continue this tradition and go out to serve as missionaries in Mexico. They were commissioned during our morning worship service on June 28.

Parent-child dedication: Dallas and Tara Wiebe with Logan, Gary and Lynnette Kehler with Jordanna, and Peter and Irene Ascough with Joy.

As a congregation, we were reminded of our responsibilities in sending out missionaries. General secretary Tim Dyck from the EM Conference national office challenged us to pray, to give generously, and to show interest in their work and be an encouragement to them.

We wish Dallas and Tara God’s richest blessings! Following the service, all were invited to stay for a barbecue lunch.

Louella Friesen

Members by transfer or baptism: (back) pastor Darryl Klassen, Justin Neufeld (transfer), Heidi Hiebert, (middle) Nicole Kuhl, Phoebe Greywood, Naomi Lloyd, associate pastor Peter Ascough, (front) Rebecca Sawatzky, Katie Froese, Jacquelyn Morran, and Sarah Hiebert.

(with our churches continued on p. 14) 12

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

EMC and

Statement of Faith Church Practices A 25-part series

Stephanie Unger

The Board of Leadership and Outreach has invited EMC pastors and other leaders 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.

4. INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS We believe people should pattern all their relationships, personal and official, after Christ. He loved others and forgave those who mistreated him (Matthew 4:16–22; 5–7; Acts 11:26; 26:28; Romans 5:5; 12–13, 2 Corinthians 6:14–7:1; Ephesians 4:32–5:2; Colossians 3:1–17; Titus 2:11–14; 1 Peter 2:13–24; 4:16).

Church Practices Article 4: Interpersonal Relationships

W

e are to pattern our relationships after Christ. That’s a broad statement!

Are we to gather a group of twelve to follow us as we wander the countryside, fishing for people (Matthew 4:16–22)? Possibly, but the next sentence clarifies what the Sometimes we writers of our Church Practices believe we are meant. It is Jesus’ walking in love for others forgiveness, when and forgiveness of those who what we are mistreated him actually doing is that is to be the pattern for all our bottling things up. relationships.

This seems like something we hear all the time. Of course, we must love other people and forgive them rather than seeking revenge when we are mistreated. But then there’s that little word official.

I wonder how conscious we are of loving those with whom we have only official connections. Do we expect a free meal if the restaurant gets our order wrong? Do we withdraw our business or support from an organization if they fail us in some way?

Do we speak impatiently with telemarketers? Do we treat those who are on opposite sides of ethical/political disputes with coldness or ridicule (even just behind their backs)?

These behaviours are not loving or forgiving. In a world where fighting for our rights has become the norm, we have a glorious opportunity to share the love of Christ simply by treating those around us with mercy.

Offering mercy or forgiveness is usually difficult— and it was just as hard when our Church Practices were written. In response to this pain, the writers THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

list a number of scriptures that basically say, “Aren’t you glad you have been forgiven and given a new life through the suffering of Christ? Well, show your gratitude by doing the same for others” (Romans 12, Ephesians 4:32–5:2, Colossians 3:13, 1 Peter 2:21–24).

Sometimes we believe we are walking in forgiveness, when what we are actually doing is bottling things up. Instead of addressing conflict, we “forgive”— meaning we do nothing. But when that person wrongs us again, the previous hurts resurface. The relationship cools and we drift apart. Although forgiveness is painful, the cost of avoidance is much higher, as it leaves us without intimacy.

Still, sometimes forgiveness is too hard. Perhaps that is why the writers draw our attention to Romans 5:5: “He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” We are not called to work up love and forgiveness within ourselves, but to learn how to allow the T Holy Spirit to fill us with God’s love. M Stephanie Unger is a house church leader within Many Rooms Church Community in Winnipeg, Man. EMC Missions Survey (done by Ernie Koop)

Missions Promotion and Recruitment in the EMC Survey Link: www.kwiksurveys.com/online-survey. php?surveyID=IHENI_daca6963 Blog: www.emcmissions-erniekoop.blogspot.com Please consider responding to a short survey regarding missions promotion and recruitment. Your responses will be kept confidential. Youth under the age of 18 require parental consent, but are encouraged to respond as well. If you prefer to fill out the survey as a WORD document please send a request via email to: ekoop@SBCollege.ca. Thanks for your help and for your valuable input! Please respond by July 31, 2009.

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with our churches

Changes at Anola Anola, Man.: Here is a brief report of a couple important happenings in the Anola Fellowship Chapel.

First, we celebrated the high school graduation of three students.

A banquet was held at our church in honour of Starr Wiebe, Carl Dowler, and Hillary Wiebe. Congratulations to each of them.

Peter Hall, our youth pastor for the past eight years or more, has stepped down from this position. We appreciate the work he has done in our church; so many lives have been touched. We presented him with a collage of more than 100 faces of people that have been in the AFC youth program during the time that Peter served.

Jessica Wichers

Graduates at Anola

Celebrate with us!

The 50th anniversary of Island Gospel Fellowship October 9–11, 2009, Burns Lake, B.C. For more information visit www.islandgospelfellowship.com or contact Bill Bueckert at 250-692-3362 or Mike Watson at 250-692-3129

Tribute to Peter Hall

One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts (Ps. 145:4).

news

Fish farming to help Bangladeshis Bidhadhar Muzamdar is a 40-yearold farmer in Lakipar village in southern Bangladesh.

Bidhadhar and his wife Probarani raise their four school-age children on their three-acre farm near the Padma River.

The river brings potential and problems. This area of low-lying plains is prone to flooding and typhoons. Floods more than 10 years ago still affect life today. Canals were filled with silt and debris, leaving swampy conditions described as “sub-human.”

About 17,000 acres of good farmland is unused because it is waterlogged eight

months each year. Because only one crop a year can be planted, 62 per cent of people lack a regular, nutritious food supply.

Bidhadhar’s family fit that profile, until last year. World Relief Canada, in partnership with Koinonia, a local Christian partner organization, offers “food for work” and food security projects.

Bidhadhar attended a five-day fishfarming seminar on how to create a fish pond, stock it, feed fish, and clean and manage his stock. Today, Bidhadhar sells fish and shrimp about four times a year.

“I think I’ll either dig another pond or lease one, as this is a profitable business,” says Bidhadhar.

About 17,000 acres of good farmland is “Thanks to the Canadians who unused because it is waterlogged eight supported this project!”

World Relief has the opportunity months each year. now, with a 4:1 matching donation

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from CIDA, to teach more families about fish farming.

WRC, through their partner Koinonia, is also hiring families, and paying them with food, to re-excavate the canals that have hindered farmers. The fields can dry and become a productive food source. A similar nearby project in 2004 reclaimed large tracts of land.

This project will restore 57 kilometers of canals and reclaim 80 per cent of the farmland that is soaked and wasted.

More than 3,665 people will be trained in agriculture, fish farming, safe water and sanitation techniques, nutrition and cooperatives. About 42,500 saplings will be planted along canal banks, reinforcing their effectiveness.

The situation is urgent; the opportunity to make a difference has never been simpler or more powerful.

World Relief Canada

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

news

Summer remains busy at SBC Recently I had someone come up to me and ask what it is like to have four months of holidays. The assumption is that when there are no students at Steinbach Bible College, the campus shuts down.

While many of us take some holiday time in summer, the months of May to August are spent doing ground work for the coming academic year, which begins in September.

During the summer our faculty spend time retooling for the fall, several of them by attending professional development conferences and getting new ideas for their courses.

Our faculty and staff also spend time in summer ministering in a variety of ways.

You might catch some of us speaking at a camp, preaching in a church, or see us at a conference convention.

The staff involved in admissions is busy contacting students and processing the new applications.

As you can see, the pace at the college definitely shifts during the summer, but the work does not stop.

Our maintenance crew gets busier in

The pace at the college definitely shifts during the summer, but the work does not stop.

summer. In fact, if you listen carefully you will hear the buzzing of saws and the pounding of hammers as the work crew renovates our three bungalows to provide married student housing on campus.

The need for additional married housing was brought on our everexpanding dorm needs. The six-plex on campus once housed apartments that were rented by married students. Last year the lower level of the six-plex was converted to accommodate a male dorm housing 12 guys, while this summer the

Henry Redekopp, part of SBC’s summer maintenance crew, works on renovating a bungalow.

upper level is being converted into even more dorm space.

More and more of our students are choosing to live in dorm because of the strong relationships that are developed there.

The demand for more space is, in part, a result of the number of applications already received for this next school year. We are coming very close to having a full first-year class, and fully expect to reach our target of applications in the next month. In fact, we currently need only a dozen new students to reach our target.

Financially, we are encouraged by the generosity of our donors. Despite the current economic difficulties, which have affected the ability of some of our church partners to contribute to the financial needs of the college, we anticipate we will finish the year in the black.

Pray that people would continue to respond to the call of Christ to follow Him and minister in His kingdom.

Pray for our staff as they process the applications that come in.

Pray for our students involved in ministry at various camps, churches, and mission agencies this summer.

Patrick Friesen Director of Communications

Tournament aids Gem Lake and micro-financing projects Cries of dismay can be heard drifting across the fairways as an errant golf ball ricochets off a tree or skips into the troublesome stream that comes into play on the majority of fairways.

More often there are cheers as a wellstruck ball is launched in a perfect arc down the fairway or a 40-foot putt rattles into the cup.

The occasion is the 15th Annual EMC Project Builders Golf Tournament held on June 18 at Steinbach Fly-in Golf Course.

Golfers from across the province have come together to enjoy the super weather and congenial fellowship.

Everywhere there is warm camaraderie as people meet and visit and renew friendships at this annual event. No doubt this atmosphere is what continues to make this tournament a sell-out event each year.

Not only is this event about bringing a group of golfers together for a day of enjoyable recreation and an excellent

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

meal; the primary purpose is to support capital mission projects sponsored by EMC Project Builders.

Inner City Youth Alive operates Gem Lake Wilderness Camp, providing lifechanging experiences for children and youth who attend. This year major renovations were required to meet health and safety requirements and funds were raised at the tournament to help meet these costs.

Kent Dueck, director of ICYA, commented on how richly the Lord is blessing the work of Gem Lake and expressed his appreciation for the generous financial assistance through the golf tournament.

Marty Friesen of Diemo Industries, an avid proponent of micro-finance, has traveled extensively in evaluating projects in Central Asia and Central America.

Marty provided us with practical examples of how small loans of under

$200, given within the structures of a well managed program, can help struggling families in some of the most impoverished areas of the world get the boost they need to become self-supporting, positive role models in their communities.

The goal is that the love of Christ

(continued on p. 16)

Ron and Ruth Penner are among those involved in coordinating the annual tournament.

15

news (continued from p. 15) will be demonstrated through this practical demonstration of care and concern for those living in desperate conditions. Project Builders is currently supporting three microfinance projects, two in Central Asia and one in Paraguay.

This year about $25,000 was raised for these projects. The organizing committee is grateful to our many sponsors and the generous donations made by all those participating in the tournament.

Len Barkman Project Builders

Golfers helped to support EMC Project Builders.

a reader’s viewpoint

Contrarian thoughts on leadership For some time now I’ve been confused by the emphasis on Christian leadership in the North American church. The assumption seems to be that in order to have effective, relevant, and biblical churches what we have to do is produce good and strong leaders.

This emphasis confuses me, first, because so many Christian leaders find themselves naturally drawn to this material, but I’m just not—titles such as The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership make me twitch. And, second, because there is so little focus on leadership in the New Testament.

Lessons on leadership can be distilled from what they wrote, but leadership is only rarely the subject of their writing.

Our conference has identified leadership as the primary area of focus for the next several years. I’m excited about this. I have personally benefited from other initiatives our Conference has made to support and encourage young and growing leaders like myself.

But what are we to make of the discrepancy between the church’s current fascination with all things leadership and the New Testament’s relative silence on that subject? And what does the New Testament say about leaders and leadership?

Here are a few observations I’ve drawn from an extended study of the topic and from general observations of church life: • The health of any group of people is largely dependent on that group’s leaders.

• This is self-evident; we know it, the Romans knew it, the early church knew it.

• The New Testament writers hardly ever talk about it.

• Nevertheless, there is awareness of the need for good leadership in the New Testament.

• The New Testament appears to carefully avoid the models of authority available in surrounding society for defining leadership in the church, consistently using different words for Christian lead-

The New Testament emphasis is not on leadership but on followership.

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David Funk ership than for leaders outside of the church. Christian and worldly leadership are fundamentally different.

• When instruction is given about leadership, the emphasis is always on the leader’s character rather than on specialized leadership principles or practices.

• Instead of being concerned with producing good leaders, the first pastors and missionaries seem almost completely focused on producing good followers of Jesus. They did not assume that producing more and better leaders was what their churches most needed— as we often do.

In conclusion, the New Testament emphasis is not on leadership but on followership. The goal is not to produce good leaders, but to produce people who know what it means to follow Jesus.

I am not saying that leadership in the Church is not important, nor that leadership is not an important part of what I do as a pastor. I am saying that to focus on leadership to the extent that the North American church often does is like having the accent on the wrong syllable; it is far secondary.

Leadership has to be a subcategory of followership, not the other way around. Leadership is therefore important in the church insofar as it contributes to the growth of the church in followership.

David Funk is a follower of Jesus within Abbeydale Christian Fellowship (Calgary, Alta.).

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

missional and multiplying Ward Parkinson | wparkinson@emconf.ca

T

Outreach challenge: Strap on your spurs!

hey say the longest eight seconds in the world comes on the back of a bucking bronco. As a spectator at the Manitoba Stampede (in Morris) each July, I can vouch for the bonecrunching endurance required by bronc riders.

Rodeo doesn’t get much mention in the New Testament, but in Hebrews 10 we are told to strap on our spurs for at least one pursuit.

Christians are encouraged to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” I hope the spurring is meant in the figurative sense! Let me tell you about a tangible way we can do that as a Conference.

In 2008 we were blessed with generous Convention offering funds which we made available to our church plants to hold outreach events or programs in their communities. The response was encouraging: from hosting Cappucino Night coffee houses, to putting on a Christmas dinner theatre, to holding a kids’ soccer tournament and giving out Spanish New Testaments. We were delighted to see your creativity in action.

Now here’s the scoop. We are extending and expanding this offer in 2009. The Canadian Church Planting Task Force is once more making funds available for outreach projects and events, but this time we are including some established churches as well as church plants.

We especially want to spur on smaller churches that would not necessarily be able to afford special outreach initiatives. If you are a church plant (less than 10 years) or have an average attendance of 100 or less, this challenge is for you.

Send us a proposal for an outreach event or project that you as a church are planning. Those that qualify will receive up to $1,000 towards expenses. This offer is made on a first-come, first-served basis.

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

Rodeo doesn’t get much mention in the New Testament, but in Hebrews 10 we are told to strap on our spurs for at least one pursuit. Christians are encouraged to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

We have but two stipulations: it needs to be for outreach (a swimming pool for your pastor would be a stretch) and you need to have some definite plans in place (not just a Some Day Fund).

Think about the needs and opportunities in your community. What can you do to reach people for the Lord? Be creative, be specific, be prayerful, be bold, be a blessing. Send your ideas to me by e-mail or by regular mail to the Conference office.

One function of being a conference is to encourage each other as churches. As stories are told about outreach activities happening in different neighbourhoods across the country, all of our churches will be challenged and “spurred on” to get involved.

As churches we’ll be encouraged to look beyond our walls for kingdom action. And glory will go to the name T of Jesus, not just for eight seconds, but forever. M

Inter-Mennonite Chaplaincy Association

Fundraiser and coffee house October 3, 2009, 7:30 p.m.

Come hear Matt Schellenberg and Bucky Driedger of the Liptonians Fort Garry EMC, 602 Pasadena Ave, Winnipeg, Man.

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in memory

MARY VEER 1914–2009 Mother was born somewhere near Hague, Sask., to Cornelius and Helena Isaac. When she got to be school age, her parents moved a lot to avoid school. When she finally did attend, she learned very fast and enjoyed school immensely.

They ended up at Great Deer, Sask., where mother met my father Jake J. Veer.

They were married and from this union three boys were born: Frederick, Jake, and John.

Mom was a very hard worker; she kept the family and farm prospering. In 1959, fifty years ago, we made a move from our rocky

KATHARINA (TENA) BRANDT (nee LOEWEN) 1907–2009 On March 25, 2009, at 6:15 a.m., Mom’s greatest wish was fulfilled. She was ushered into the presence of Jesus! She was a godly woman and deeply loved her Lord.

Mom was born on October 26, 1907, to Cornelius and Maria Loewen in the village of Rosenhoff, northwest of Morris.

She talked fondly of her years in grade school, but always rued the fact she couldn’t complete grade eight because her married sisters needed her help. She would have liked to be a teacher.

After her conversion, Mom was baptized in 1925 by Bishop Jacob B. Kroeker and accepted into the Kleine Gemeinde Church (now EMC). Later she and Dad transferred their membership to Morris Fellowship Chapel.

In time, during their young peoples’ gatherings, a dark-haired, brown-eyed

18

quarter of land to a farm west of Benito, Man., where we all farmed for a while.

Brothers Jake and John left for Winnipeg and Dad passed away in 1985. They left Mom and me to farm for about 20 years.

Mom loved outdoor work and her garden; she was very handy with a hammer and a saw.

In 2005 her health failed and strokes took their toll. She ended up in Benito Health Centre. Mom received excellent care at the Centre and lived to be over 95 years of age.

Mom had a very strong love for us boys and it was what she lived for. Mother lived a genuine Christian life and was a strong witness to those around her. Mother loved to sew and patch on our farm and bush clothing. She had a strong soprano voice and did a lot of singing.

Mom was born on March 20, 1914, and died June 15, 2009. She was predeceased by her husband Jacob and two sons Jake and John. She will be missed by her oldest son Fred, her grandson David, Joan and Laurie. Hers was a life well lived.

Her funeral service was conducted on June 18, 2009, from Pelly Fellowship Chapel with Pastor John Froese officiating.

Her son Fred Veer young man, Henry Brandt, showed interest in her. Eventually this relationship led to their wedding on a stormy, snowy day— November 21, 1930. Then followed the busy years of farming and raising a family of eight. They experienced three major floods, which made life difficult and stressful. Even when the pressures of life mounted, Mom was a strong support for Dad. Mom enjoyed the local sewing circle and visiting with neighbours and friends. She sewed clothes, baby bundles, and blankets for MCC. She was a member of Western Tract Mission and had a great desire to have the unsaved learn about Jesus. She enjoyed travelling and made numerous trips with family members and friends.

Mom attended ladies’ fellowship and was a member of the Cheer Committee, visiting the lonely, sick and elderly. She enjoyed being on the Golden Agers’ Committee helping plan programs.

Mom was an optimist and practiced selfdiscipline. She enjoyed life and accepted Dad’s death without self-pity.

She was a hard worker and always planted a big garden, which resulted in lots of canning in fall. Even now we remember the great taste of all her food. She taught us kids to work and to follow her example of being frugal. The sewing machine was never idle for long. She memorized many Scripture verses. She was very involved in field work for her dad and later for her husband—weeding mustard, cultivating, combining and hauling grain.

Most her life Mom enjoyed good

coming events July 25 2nd Annual Tractor Trek Parade of tractors 40 years and older Villages south of Winkler, Man. 204-325-5355 www.edenhealth.mb.ca

August 8 Cornstock Music Festival To support MCC Ontario Willowgrove Stouffville, Ont. 416-423-9229 cornstock@mennonitecc.on.ca www.myspace.com/cornstock2009

September 16–18 Winnipeg Prophecy Conference Victoria Inn Winnipeg, Man. 204-832-4627 www.wpgpc.org

health, but in 1995 she developed macular degeneration. With time she became legally blind and also suffered partial hearing loss.

Even though her body failed her, she aged gracefully.

Through life’s ups and downs, she was always aware “the Lord is a present help in times of trouble.” Being affected spiritually by listening to Back to the Bible’s programs, she was a strong supporter of their ministry.

Her nephew Cornie Loewen’s messages and visits also greatly aided spiritual growth.

During the 1970s revival, an invitation was extended for those who desired a closer walk with the Lord. She responded and received the joy of the Lord. This helped her become the gracious, victorious Christian lady she was.

In July 2006 she ended up in Morris Hospital because of severe back pain. Here she was cared for until she could move to Red River Valley Lodge in January 2007.

Fond and precious memories will linger on for Lena and Peter Janzen (Killarney), Nettie Brandt (Gretna), Bernie and Hilda Brandt (Kamsack), Marie and Jim Scott (Hamiota), Tena and Levi Reimer (Winnipeg), Elma Brandt (Morris), Hank and Betty Brandt (Winnipeg), Martha and Art Dueck (Altona). She was predeceased by her loving husband, Henry H. Brandt, on November 21, 1972, after almost 42 years of marriage.

“In Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11).

Her Family

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

shoulder tapping Rosenort EMC invites applications for a parttime, interim youth leader. This individual is responsible to develop youth programs for junior and senior youth from September 2009 to August 2010. The individual will work together with a team of youth sponsors. Interested individuals should send a resume to Rosenort EMC, Box 153, Rosenort, MB R0G 1W0 or remcpastor@gninc.ca.

For information, please email or call the church at 204-746-8519.

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

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.

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 306-595-2074. E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship. com.

La Crete Christian Fellowship, in the northwest corner of Alberta, is looking for a full-time youth pastor to be a part of our pastoral team.

LCCF’s service to God is based on core values: a commitment to worship, discipleship, teaching of God’s Word, and reaching our community and world with the gospel. We are a vibrant church of about 350 regular attendees who desire to spread the Word through a variety of ministries.

The youth pastor will direct the youth leadership team in implementing our vision of helping our youth establish and strengthen their personal connection to Jesus Christ. Applicants are to be a disciple of Jesus Christ who is a willing and teachable leader; a person whose love for the Lord is reflected in their ability to work well with others.

Contact us for details: Call Mike Schellenberg at 780-841-9376 or e-mail lccfc@telus.net.

Rainbow Christian School, in Vanderhoof, BC, seeks both a grade 3/4 teacher (2009–2010) and a principal.

RCS is a growing K–8 Christian professional learning community and has been in operation for 20 years. It is a classified Group 1 Independent School and currently has a staff of six and an enrollment of about 80 students.

Applications must include: resume, three references (including a pastor’s), transcripts, BCCT certificate, statement of faith, philosophy of Christian education.

THE MESSENGER July 15, 2009

Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm The principal is a full-time position (.6 admin. and .4 teaching).

Send a cover letter, resume, philosophy of Christian education with statement of faith.

Rainbow Christian School Search Committee, Box 710, 2994 Burrard Ave., Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0; ph: 250-567-3127; fax: 250-567-3167; e-mail: rcschool@telus.net.

Camp Assiniboia, near Winnipeg, Man., requires a full-time custodian/maintenance assistant. Camp Assiniboia is one of three camps operated by Mennonite Church Manitoba.

Position available fall 2009. Applicants must affirm Mennonite faith statement. On site housing and benefits package available. Contact 204-895-2267 or camps@mennochurch.mb.ca. Information at www.campswithmeaning.org.

Continental Mission in Thompson, Man., is looking for a director and a treasurer. Contact board chairman Ruben Goertzen (rgoertz@mts. net) for job descriptions, or call Bill Penner 204679-1005 for information.

An evangelical ministry, Continental Mission (started in the 1940s) is involved in evangelism, church planting, camping, and drop-in ministries among First Nations people, mostly in northern Manitoba.

Recovery of Hope, a faith-based professional counseling centre based in Winnipeg, a program of Eden Health Care Services, invites applications for the position of program director.

Reporting to the CEO, Eden Health Care Services and to the Board of Recovery of Hope, the incumbent is responsible for the overall direction, co-ordination and management program in Winnipeg and offices located in Altona, Niverville, Portage, Steinbach, and Winkler. This position works within a team of other program directors providing a range of mental health recovery programs.

Essential qualifications include a master’s level university degree in a relevant field, successful administrative experience, demonstrated clinical skills, and experience and effective communication skills.

The salary for this position is competitive and dependent upon qualifications and experience.

The position is available immediately. Application deadline is July 31, 2009.

Please direct inquiries/resumes to: Search Committee, Box 129, Winkler, MB R6W 4A4; 204-325-5355; ehcs@mts.net.

Steinbach Bible College and Steinbach Christian High School invite applications to fill two parttime positions as evening custodian. The positions are seasonal, beginning in September and going until June, and involve general custodial duties.

Applicants must be in agreement and sign the Statement of Faith and Lifestyle and Morality Statement of the schools. Application and job description are available at the SBC reception desk or via email at reception@sbcollege.ca.

Submit application, resume, and cover letter to

Steinbach Bible College, Attn: Wes Bergen, 50 PTH 12N, Steinbach, MB R5G 1T4. Fax: 204-3266908.

The Hodgson Christian Academy (HCA) is seeking applicants for the position of classroom teacher. HCA is approximately two hours north of Winnipeg on Hwy #17, just south of Peguis and Fisher River Reserves.

The teacher position opening is for a class of 10 junior and senior high students. Manitoba Teaching Certification is not a requirement, but applicants with experience in Christian education will be given preference.

HCA is a satellite school of the Morweena Christian School. Please contact Principal Tim Reimer 204-364-2466 or timr@morweenaschool. org.

Mennonite Foundation, a donor-advised charitable foundation (est. 1973) with 17 employees and an operating budget of $1.9 million, seeks an executive director. The director is responsible to the board and will provide strategic leadership, directing and managing the overall operation. The candidate must be a church member in one of MFC’s six supporting conferences.

MFC promotes financial stewardship from a Christian perspective, creates opportunities for people to be generous with their financial resources, provides stewardship education for churches and members, is committed to socially responsible investing, and provides loans to constituent churches and related charities.

We are a growing and dynamic organization with over $100 million under management. The head office is in Winnipeg, Man., with four other offices across Canada.

MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Resumes should be submitted to Personnel Committee, MFC, 12-1325 Markham Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6; edsearch@ mennofoundation.ca.

CBF Christian School, a Jr. K–grade 8 school located in Swan River, Man., seeks a term teacher for multi grades 5–8 homeroom (September 2009 to June 2010). Must hold a Manitoba Teacher’s Certificate, be born again, and provide pastoral references. Send resume to CBFCS, Box 1630, Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0. For further information, call 204-734-2174 (weekdays) or 204-734-5702 (after hours).

Morweena Christian School (MCS) is inviting applications for teaching positions in junior and senior high school classes. MCS is operated by the Morweena Mennonite Church. It is situated 25 kms northwest of Arborg, Man. MCS is dedicated to providing a K-12 education in an environment which holds a high respect for biblical values. Send resume and pastor’s reference to Tim Reimer, Principal, Fax 204-3643117 or timr@morweenaschool.org.

19

      Arley Loewen, Ph.D.

M

be shamed is the worst defeat, and to be honoured the any have asked me, “How long did it take greatest passion. you to learn Dari (Afghan Persian)?”

I saw how the quest for the good name (avoiding Normally I say, “I’ve not finished yet. I’m shame, pursing honour) is what gives direction and still working on it.” I think to myself, “Is defi nition to Muslim society. But from the perspective language something one begins and then completes?” of western psychology, such a quest for good reputation Learning language is like diving into the ocean depths. leads heroes into irreconcilable personal paradoxes and Who has ever reached its end? compels them to disgraceful acts to maintain their good In the late 1980s, I experienced Persian immersion as name. my professors taught in Persian; my exams and thesis, I thank God for the blessing of individuality and everything was in Persian. If I didn’t swim hard I would personal freedom which are often sink. After three years of intense formal sacrificed on the altar of communal university study in Pakistan, I finally As Christians, our reputation. In God’s economy, we can came up for some fresh air. live beyond the dilemma of personal and In 1995, I returned to Pakistan, thinking honour is God and cultural honour. Only divine grace offers I knew Dari well. Yet, I wanted to swim His Kingdom.

That is this. farther and gather more pearls of the Dari But as I read Persian stories I see how language. My language helper introduced what we live for and living for honour is also beautiful. It me to the writings of Dr. Akram Osman, are willing (I hope) enables me to live for a cause bigger than Afghanistan’s best short-story writer. myself. Too many people have too little to As I read these and other short stories, to die for. live for—just themselves. it dawned on me how a short story is As Christians, our honour is God and a picture of life, a window into another His Kingdom. That is what we live for and are willing (I world. These stories are voices of culture which often hope) to die for—as many Muslims are ready to die for are silenced. the honour of their faith.

In November 2000, I completed a doctoral So, as I swim in the world of Persian culture, I rejoice dissertation at the University of Toronto. My thesis dealt how God’s grace sets us free from the quest of personal with the concept of manliness and heroism as depicted honour. But He also frees us from the bondage of in Persian literature and society. individualism as we seek a greater honour—God and I read medieval and modern stories, poems and T His Kingdom. M treatises on what is a “real man” in Muslim cultures.

One medieval hero sums it up when he said, “Any work I do, any food I eat, I do for the sake of a good name.”

Good reputation is the driving force for the hero. To PAGE 20

Dr. Arley Loewen has lived in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

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