The Messenger Vol. 47 No. 17 October 7, 2009

THE

MESSENGER

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

‫ָתְּכ ַרֵב‬

volume 47, number 17 October 7, 2009

(Berekah Berekah): ):

a life of praise

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

editorials

We can be grateful

W

e can be grateful for the grace of God in its many forms (1 Peter 4:10).

We can be grateful for Christians who live their faith quietly and daily, focusing on common tasks at hand. (A monk, sweeping a corridor, was once asked what he would do if he heard the Lord was coming today. He said he would continue to sweep.)

We can be grateful for Christians who protest the world’s injustices.

We need the modern voices of Micah, Amos, and others.

We can be grateful for Christians who, through intercessory prayer,

connect with our Father to touch people in unimaginable ways, and for Christians whose struggle becomes their prayer (Romans 8:26–28).

We can be grateful for missionaries who clearly proclaim the Lord’s message (Acts 17)—and for those who stammer as they bind up the brokenhearted (Isaiah 61:1).

We can be grateful for high-profile

We can be grateful for high-profile Christians and, equally, for Christians who serve behind-the-scenes.

The North-South dialogue

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he Christian Church in the South (Asia, Africa, Latin America) is growing while the North (Europe, North America) is declining.

In the past the North has been a major source of missionaries, currently it has much influence through finances, and we face a different future.

Why? Now, as the Iguassu Dialogue of 1999 reveals, the South sees itself as an equal partner.

The Dialogue, sponsored by the World Evangelical Fellowship’s missions commission, was held in Brazil with 160 participants from 53 coun-

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Roman

rroman@emconf.ca

Address changes and submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 19 – November 4 (copy due October 23)

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tries, balanced from the West and “the Great Rest of the World” (William Taylor, ed., Global Missiology for the 21st Century, Baker, 2000; and Dr. Daryl Climenhaga).

It shows that our Northern understanding of the Christian faith is not beyond challenge by the South, based on its own response to Christ, Word, and Spirit.

The South sees flaws (as well as strengths) in the education we offer, the churches we establish, even the theology we present. Such a challenge is unsettling to some Northern churches.

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,

Christians and, equally, for Christians who serve behind-the-scenes.

We can be grateful for Christians who worship Christ in a simple liturgy and others with a more detailed liturgy.

We can be grateful for full-time workers in pastoral, missionary, and parachurch roles—and for full-time workers who serve as fathers and mothers, farmers and teachers, bakers and mechanics.

We can be grateful for Christians with the gift of hospitality and for those with the gift of leadership.

We can be grateful for Christians with “helps,” who serve in thousands of different ways that are taken for T granted. M Terry M. Smith Are we prepared to listen and to learn?

For instance, the Iguassu Dialogue reveals that the South often views the Church’s mission involves joining evangelism and social justice, a mix that is uncomfortable to some Christians in Canada and the U.S. Years ago Harry Neufeld, likely then an EMC Board of Missions member, publicly spoke of traveling in the South. A brother there had challenged him: Why do you divide the gospel?

Harry reported the challenge, showing an openness to learn.

The North-South dialogue continT ues, as it must. 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 October 7, 2009

a reader’s viewpoint

Does technology connect or hide us?

I promise I won’t go on at length about the pros and cons of technology for Christians. But I have had some thoughts recently that I want to share.

As the PDA (personal data assistant), the Palm Pilot, or even the Blackberry has gained in popularity, it makes me wonder about how it might require us to become bolder in our presentation of sharing the gospel with others.

As complete Bibles are able to be downloaded onto these gadgets, sitting in a coffee shop doing personal devotions, won’t garner the same reaction as working with the paper version. People won’t enquire with interest if they seek the Word. They just won’t know.

And gazing around a worship service, one sees more and more of these devices. Incidentally, the

Whether you are technologically behind or up on the latest device, I encourage you to live out your faith in a way that reaches others and points to Christ.

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

crowd is also peppered with those who choose to play games of Tetris or to text friends during the service, instead of following the Scripture electronically. We are becoming less distinct and identifiable and more similar to everybody else.

I was greatly encouraged, twice in one week, to see young adults sitting with a Bible while in a coffee shop.

It didn’t matter to me if they were critically seeking and searching or actively feeding on the Word. They had a treasure in their hands and they weren’t ashamed to be seen in public with it.

Maybe there are many more, sitting and studying Scripture all around me; but somehow, because I don’t know if they are entering data, or consulting their calendar, it just doesn’t occur to me. It doesn’t lend itself to strangers approaching you and saying, “I see you have a Bible there. I never understood what the fuss was about that Jesus character.” Openings like that are opportunities that would be a thing of the past.

Do we have the boldness to approach strangers, then, to share the Good News?

Another change with technology is how sharing a songbook with a visitor beside you in a church service is nearly a thing of the past. Viewing large screens with the songs in either bold print (or if you’re lucky, the actual music script) doesn’t require you to look at your neighbour, smile, and share a book. It also cuts out the opportunity for spouses or parent and child, to connect.

Don’t get me wrong. There are large benefits to these additions

Monica Goertzen

to our everyday life. I am not afraid of change. I just notice the bigger picture sometimes, and hope that when something good goes missing, there is a collective effort to adjust in a way that carries the benefits that would be missed.

Paradoxically, the technology used to make our life easier, might create challenge for a Christian. So whether you are technologically behind, afraid of change, or if you are up on the latest device, I encourage you to live out your faith in a way that reaches others and points to Christ.

It might require more effort, but the result is T eternally worth it. M Monica Goertzen is a part of Steinbach EMC.

Letter Correction In the published letter by Gordon Dyck, No call to political activism [September 2, 2009, p. 6], another not was added by mistake in the final two sentences. The original, in fact, says: “This world will pass away (our emphasis). Those who remain in Christ will not.”

Editor

Young people, write about your faith!

The Messenger welcomes contributions from writers of any age.

For instance, young people in high school or college and career are welcome to write about their faith. There are three avenues: the Back Page, A Reader’s Viewpoint, and church news; all of these are under 500 words.

There is no honorarium for church news, but the other two categories would pay $50 (includes use on Internet).

We reserve the right to be selective about what we publish.

Editors

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‫ָתְּכ ַרֵב‬

(Berekah Berekah): ):

a life of praise Professor Corey Herlevsen

We have a good God who has given us good gifts from an originally good creation.

Giving thanks is not an activity so much as a way of life which acknowledges His Kingship.

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ne of the central concepts when I teach on addiction is summarized by writer Elizabeth Wurtzel, “addiction is, in its essence, an inability to live in the moment” (More, Now, Again, Simon and Schuster, 2002).

A person in the grip of an addiction does not, and indeed cannot, experience moments of real joy because they are always anxious about when and where the next “fix” will come. When that fix comes they cannot really enjoy it as they are already looking ahead to the next and so on. This mindset becomes a way of being. “For an addict like me,” Wurtzel concludes, “the thrill is always gone, in fact it is leaving before it even arrives.”

I realize that many people reading this do not struggle with addictions as we commonly think of them, but, as a counselor, I am convinced that the dis-ease of the soul caused by living with one foot in the future, one foot in the past—thereby abusing the gifts of the present—is pandemic.

We have trouble being still. We don’t know how to be alone. In a very real sense addicted to what Mark Buchanan calls “the cult of the next thing,” we so often fail to notice what is going on around us; we fail to see a good God at work in the midst of the ordinary mess of daily life.

In contrast, the Judeo/Christian teaching has consistently been that we are to cultivate gratitude, because we live in a world formed and fashioned by a loving Creator in whose image we are made, and, therefore, life is a rich gift. Paul reflects this mindset with his command to be in an attitude of prayer and thanksgiving with joy and with gratitude, in the present time (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

We are to live one day at a time, forcefully present in our own lives, carrying out every activity in a spirit of prayer which flows from an awareness of God’s presence. Essentially, Scripture suggests that our ethics reflects our gratitude. This New Testament teaching is rooted in two foundational texts on berekah (praise, blessing) from the Hebrew Bible.

Psalm 24 This is theological bedrock. The bottom line for a Jewish person “giving thanks” was a profound sense of awe at the majesty of God. The Earth/the Land is the Lord’s and so when you benefit in any way from anything that has been created, you are to receive it as the rich gift that it is. You are to give thanks (berekah) to the One who made it and the One who gave it.

The Jewish Talmud says “to enjoy anything of THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

this world without a blessing of thanks is to steal from heaven for your own gain because ‘the Earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.’” In Ephesians 1 and 1 Corinthians 10:23ff, Paul seems to be echoing this basic worldview.

Don’t miss the deeper significance of all this.

When we thank Him we are not engaging in a ritual, much less a duty. We are actually making a choice about who is going to be our Lord.

When we thank Him we are simply and profoundly making a statement to ourselves, to our community and (so Job and Ephesians tell us) to the universe about who is going to be our Lord.

The simple theology of a text like Psalm 24 keeps us grounded in a world which confuses us and pulls at us.

We have a good God who has given us good gifts from an originally good creation. Giving thanks is not an activity so much as a way of life which acknowledges His Kingship. Conversely, failing to give thanks is not neglect so much as an act of rebellion as it denies His goodness and His authority over the creation.

Take this one step further. Failing to bless God for the gifts of the present day is, by default, to proclaim another king and set that on the throne of our lives and thus the essence of Genesis 3 and 4 is repeated.

When we thank God we are simply and profoundly making a statement to ourselves, to our community and to the universe about who is going to be our Lord.

Deuteronomy 8 Remembering redemption is the second pillar on which the life of thanksgiving stood. Remembering (see Deuteronomy 8:18) is, biblically, more than cognitive. It implies recall but with a focus on responding appropriately (James Swanson). Such a response led to the covenant being confirmed and to eventual shalom (peace, wholeness, the abundant life). Forgetting what had been done for their redemption led to pride, false kingdoms, and eventual chaos (Jeremiah 4:23-26).

The hinge of Deuteronomy 8 is verse 10, a verse quoted and commented on by many first-century rabbis. The Talmud, for instance, comments that (continued on p. 6) 5

is that the broken and shattered “each person must give an When we live a life of praise, world will be made whole again account before God for every we quietly and peacefully and there will be shalom. legitimate pleasure which he Giving thanks for the blessing saw but did not take the time scream to the world that the of this day, for redemption, and to enjoy.” wreckage and brokenness for re-creation, all three, is an When the NIV says “praise” act of faith precisely because we in Deuteronomy 8:10, we we see is not going to be the see so much chaos all around us. shouldn’t be fooled into final word.

When we live a life of praise, we thinking about praise in the quietly and peacefully scream to sense we usually think of the world that the wreckage and it. This isn’t to be limited brokenness we see is not going to prayer over a meal, to to be the final word. The last words will be those songs, hymns, spiritual songs, or choruses on familiar Gospel nouns and participles: truth, love, PowerPoint—the usual elements of what we call peace, grace. praise.

Something as basic as the way we speak to each Biblically, praise, thanksgiving is not so much other can be an act of pushing back the chaos and about the way we feel; it is about the way we live. bringing a taste of new life (Proverbs 15:1). A life of It is our theological orientation with shoes on berekah implies a decision and a basic worldview (Deuteronomy 8:6, 20). To give God “praise” or to which says that we are not self-sufficient and not, “bless” God is to live your life as if His Lordship ultimately, in control. We live our lives of berekah actually made a difference. It is to make a choice in the present as a witness to a deeper reality and a to acknowledge the Kingdom of God and His claim glorious future. over our lives.

As they say in “the program” When they did so, and when we do so, it is (rehab), “Today is day one.” nothing less than a reversing of that rebellious T Choose. M choice first made in Genesis 3 and so often repeated in our world and in our lives.

Corey Herlevsen serves as professor of Bible and Counseling at Steinbach So What?

Bible College.

So what does all this have to do with us? We must understand that living a life of praise, blessing, and gratitude (berekah) does not mean that we have to turn a blind eye to the obvious fact that much of SBC offers free evening seminars what’s going on around us is not pretty.

SBC offers free one evening Refresh seminars designed to The truth is that there are broken people all address issues in ministry. around us, relational wreckage all around us, people October 19 Where is God when bad things who have been violated and shredded by the words happen? (Theology) or actions of someone they trusted, people who are Terry Hiebert will address the problem of evil as well as some poor, who are sick. As a counselor I see this every of the recent books published concerning this topic. day, and I am far from immune to it in my own life.

November 2 Using presentation software That is all true. What is also true is that this will effectively (Digital Media) not be the final reality. The testimony of Scripture Patrick Friesen will help churches to use projection

25th Annual EM Cup Hockey Tournament November 13–15, 2009 T. G. Smith Centre Steinbach, Man.

18 teams expected!

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For information, contact Colin Loewen 204-346-1380

technology to more effectively display song lyrics, sermons notes, etc.

November 9

Keeping time with Jesus: Shaping a congregation through the practice of the Christian year (Worship) Arlene Friesen asks: Who sets the calendar for your church’s worship? Hallmark? The church’s programs and activities? This seminar will discuss how patterning the church worship year on the Christ-story can lead your congregation into a richer experience of discipleship.

For seminar time and location details check www.sbcollege.ca

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

with our missionaries Paraguay

Kika and Varon: peace at last!

She is Brazilian and her name is Varon’s mom died when he was 17 Maralucia, but everybody just calls years old. His dad treated them badly her Kika. When she finished grade and they were all afraid of him. A year two, she and her family moved into after his mom’s death, Varon and his the jungles of Paraguay. There was no twin Aron moved to Paraguay, where school or church. Kika had to work like they went through a lot of suffering a man, making charcoal and working and loneliness. on the fields.

Kika was 17 when she started to Her dad was an alcoholic and work for Varon and Aron, hoeing the treated Kika badly, abusing her fields. She was about to get married, verbally and physically. One day, but her boyfriend left her. One day she when she was 11, she decided to drink invited Varon to play cards with her poison to end her misery. Just in time, and her friends. They started dating, A family that we work with and deeply care about. Pray for Kika, someone of the family called her. She Varon, and their girls. Praise God for His salvation and healing! and married four months later. Their walked out of the barn and never tried friends did not approve because Varon it again. Today she’s convinced: “God was (soon broken) so that she went back with was 15 years older. there!”

Their marriage went well. They have him.

One day she told her dad she was Varon was also born in Brazil, but to two daughters, Michaela and Marina leaving home. He got really mad, but let German parents. He has a twin and five (ages 10 and five). her go because he was sure she’d come other brothers. His dad was an alcoholic Varon had started listening to running back; but she did not. The bush and an atheist. His mom taught them Radio HCJB as a bachelor. When Radio and dangerous animals in it were not as The Lord’s Prayer and raised them as Mensajero started, he listened all the frightening as what she left behind. He Lutherans. She faithfully listened to time. Kika hated it and would switch to came after her and promised many things Christian programs over Radio HCJB. a secular station. One day he came home and she was listening to Mensajero. He was thrilled.

Canada/Asia Lies had it that Kika was having an affair, and they went through a very hard time. They participated in a Catholic church, and we were invited to teach a marriage course there. Varon and Kika God is opening doors for Christians and several hours of discussion. Sandra were one of the couples, and we built up to set up businesses in places where has years of business experience in a relationship with them. Their church traditional ways of serving are extremely Canada and just returned from a year in had problems and they did not get any restricted.

Asia. We were involved in her orientation spiritual help there.

Serving through business is often chal- for a return to Asia longer term. To do so, In Tres Palmas we had started Spanlenging and needs much prayer, wisdom, we invited three people, a fellow here after ish services and Varon and Kika started consultation, and courage. Our organiza- four years in Asia and a couple home from coming. They loved it and kept coming, tion is committed to encouraging, assist- Asia for a few months for family reasons. despite opposition. ing, and enabling people who sense a call We spent about four hours together One day when Revita Kroeker visited, to serve through business in foreign coun- talking about Asia and praying together.

Kika made a decision for Christ. Varon tries.

One is preparing to return to Asia to serve noticed right away that something was First, we had Susan (all names are as a business consultant, helping people changed) to our house for lunch. She set up and successfully run a service- different about her. About a week later, has studied language in Asia for several oriented business. And, yes, Sandra has they had us over for a meal and Varon years and is preparing to return to set up already met with Susan and will continue also accepted Jesus.

Today they hardly miss church. The a business in western Asia. It was a joy to to advise her. girls love Sunday School. Varon has the hear her vision and how God has prepared What a blessing to have someone with radio beside his bed all the time and her for this step. this skill to offer this to God to help make She is aware of her need for the advice a difference in the fragrance of the Gospel listens to Mensajero, especially when he can’t sleep. and input of others with business minds to permeate part of Asia.

Chris Kroeker in order to get her business on a firm It is such a joy for us to have a small

Serving through business

foundation. We are not business-minded people, but we were able to encourage, advise, and pray as she prepares for this next chapter of her career. Now read on to see how God provides for those who follow Him in obedience.

Some days later we had four more people from Asia in our home for lunch

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

part in the encouragement, equipping, and mentoring of those God is sending.

Thanks so much for your encouragement as you pray and give so we can continue to fulfill the vision God has given us.

Elmer Warkentin

Since 1991 Chris Kroeker (Rosenort EMC) has been the manager of Radio Mensajero, including involvement with program production and follow-up. The information in this story was given in an interview and with permission for it to be published.

Elmer Warkentin is part of Steinbach EMC.

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Convention 2009

Part four of four

Mark 5:1–20

A case of

 

Dr. Pierre Gilbert

T

o increase the Kingdom’s footprint in the world, the Church needs to be absolutely convinced that Christ has the power to transform men and women.

If Christians are persuaded that Jesus is indeed the Lord of the universe and the Saviour of the world, they will move out with joy and courage. But if they believe he was only a great man, a gentle teacher, then they will eventually be co-opted by those who want to see the Church in submission and silent.

Who is Jesus Christ? Lord of the universe or the gentle teacher? Not surprisingly, the early Christians faced the same question. In fact, the story of the demon-possessed man found in Mark 5:1–20 was written to settle this issue.

The strange account of an encounter between Jesus and a man possessed by a legion of demons, and the resulting drowning of two thousand pigs is not a recipe about how to cast out demons. This is, in fact, a story about the overwhelming power and authority of Jesus Christ and a couple of secrets about human nature, secrets so extravagant and stupendous that, were they to be uncovered, the world as we know it would cease to exist.

Hopelessness (1–5) Jesus’ arrival in the region of Gerasenes is no accident. He appears on the scene because there is a man in great need. By providing an opportunity to be confronted with the worst case of demonpossession imaginable, in a pagan cemetery yet, this encounter demonstrates that Jesus indeed has real and overwhelming power.

Jesus’ incursion in pagan territory is very significant. It loudly proclaims that God’s offer of salvation is not limited to the Jews or any particular class of people. All are the object of God’s love.

Verses 3–5 symbolize the extent to which a human being can be affected by evil. They describe a man who is alienated in every possible way. He is alienated from himself, his family, and the rest of human society. He is completely out of control, and no one can do anything for him.

Confrontation (6–13) Mark notes four actions to show that at the sight of Jesus the man regains some measure of control.

He sees Jesus. He runs to him. He falls on his knees in front of him. And he shouts at the top of his voice.

The royal title the demons use to refer to Jesus underlines their utter powerlessness in his presence. The lie that these evil entities have overwhelming powers is being unraveled. The demons know that this is game over. They are

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simply negotiating the terms of surrender.

This man is given a new lease on life, a new identity, Jesus asks the demon to identify itself, not so much to gain control over and a new purpose. He has become God’s partner. the creature as to demonstrate the extent to which this man had come under the control of the demonic. The immediate response from the demon further underlines Jesus’ absolute authority.

This man is given a new lease on life, a new In contrast to popular belief, Mark emphasizes in identity, and a new purpose. He has become God’s verses 11–13 the very limited range of freedom these partner. spirits actually enjoy. They need permission to enter into the pigs. Taking possession of the pigs is not Hidden Truths something they can do on their own authority.

There is much to highlight about this story, but While this text confirms the existence of demonic there are two fundamental truths that deserve to be spirits, their power is extremely limited. First, a underlined. Those are truths the “world” has and is “legion” of demons, possibly 6,000, is not sufficient still attempting to hide at all costs. Were we to see to completely strip this man of his dignity. Secondly, them plainly, they would transform every person the pig/demon ratio (2,000 pigs to 6,000 demons) that comes into contact with them and, in time, sends a very subtle message about the real power of transform the whole world. these demons.

To an audience that believes in their Truth 1: No one is beyond God’s reach overwhelming power, we have a situation where Regardless of the grip evil may have on a person, three demons are insufficient to even keep a pig God has an infinite ability to reach into the human from drowning itself. soul and bring redemption. No one is beyond the No one can deny the strangeness of the pig reach of God! incident. But it was critical it happened this way, This implies that we should never give up on for how else would people know that this man was anyone or on Christ’s ability to redeem even the indeed under the influence of real demons? most unlikely candidates for salvation. Whether it’s Jesus is not just a good psychologist. The a drug addict, a hardened criminal, or a child born drowning of the pig herd is the incontrovertible with Down’s syndrome, God can reach into their demonstration of the overwhelming power of souls.

Jesus—not even an army of demons can stand in his presence.

Truth 2: We are free Here is the second truth that the “world” and Village idiots never get it! (14–17) countless human ideologies seek to hide from Jesus’ intervention does not meet with a grateful us, that intellectual elites say is a lie or at best an response from the community. That the demoniac illusion: We are free! is sitting, clothed, and in full control of himself is We are free to turn to God and be healed. No irrelevant. The village idiots want Jesus to leave. demon, no evil, no amount of abuse, nothing can They are upset by the economic cost of this good keep us from turning to God, crying for help, and deed. At a herd of pigs per man, salvation is just too being healed. expensive.

Hope can shine through in the darkest places.

The village idiots just don’t get Jesus. They never Christ can overcome all obstacles. Only one thing do! Mark reminds us that Jesus is powerless in the stands in the way of our redemption: Our own T face of human greed and stupidity. As for the man, human free will. M he is no longer mad. His redemption affects every aspect of his life: spiritual, mental, physical, and Pierre Gilbert, EMC’s 2009 social. convention speaker and an ordained Mennonite Brethren Jesus and the liberated man (18–20) minister, is Associate Professor Jesus leaves, not as a concession to anyone, but of Bible and Theology at because his mission is completed. The man wishes the Canadian Mennonite to go with him, but Jesus does not let him. The University and the Mennonite village idiots will call for a public inquiry. The man Brethren Biblical Seminary. He must stay behind to tell the truth about the healer. is the coordinator of the Winnipeg Centre for Ministry He must go back to his family and reenter the social Studies and the author of Demons, Lies & Shadows. A fabric of his community.

Plea for a Return to Text and Reason (2008).

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with our churches

Ladies’ retreat held Portage la Prairie, Man.: Portage Evangelical Church held a Ladies Retreat, June 12–14 at Camp Koinonia: “Our Bridegroom is Coming!”

The introduction in our booklets read: “We welcome you to this retreat.

Our prayer is that the lover of your soul would find you ready to meet Him and to listen to His words of love to you.

Put aside all the cares and concerns of everyday life.

“Remove distractions from you.

Enter in to all that He wants to do in and through you this weekend. Search your heart for anything that may stand in the way of you drinking fully of His love and presence. Agree with Him on his thoughts towards you.

“Come clean in the washing of His blood shed for you on the cross. Come alive in the forgiveness and freedom that come in the payment for your sin and shame. Drink deeply of the beauties and riches of our lover, our bridegroom and our soon coming king. This weekend… ‘prepare for eternity.’”

And that is what we did. In our sessions we were taught about three questions: Who is our Bridegroom? What does our Bridegroom expect from His bride? How do I know my Bridegroom?

Some points that came from the sessions were: • Something huge is being prepared and it will not be cancelled • He is an all consuming fire and jealous God • I am living for an audience of one • Love is passion, not passive • Love is truth and humility • I am not of this world • He measures me by my heart • What am I doing in my soul?

• Internal affects the external • What is my most dominant thought?

• Be quick to repent • Repair the holes in the fence • God pursues me and wants me The beautiful weather was a kiss from God. Saturday afternoon we walked the grounds and stopped at prayer stations featuring different women from the Bible.

And from the sharing times we had later that day and the next morning it was obvious that God had been speaking to the ladies. Soul searching is tough and painful sometimes, but God is always there to heal, lift up, and walk with us.

We also celebrated our King and Bridegroom with a banquet on Saturday supper.

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“And an angel said to me, ‘Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb’” (Revelation 19:9).

Are you ready to meet our soon coming King?

Anna Plett Reporter: Catherine Epp Portage Evangelical Church ladies attended a retreat June 12–14.

What happened to our sanctuary?

Abbeydale (Calgary, Alta.): Decorations, punch, door prizes, slide shows and even a special song: What’s this all about?

On June 6, in what was described as something like a wedding but with eight honorees, Abbeydale Christian Fellowship celebrated grade 12 graduation in fine style. The sanctuary was transformed into a dining room including one large head table. With Leon Koop as the master of ceremonies, we shared memories, Mexican food, and laughter.

One highlight of the evening was a song composed by Jason Plett, performed by the MC, extolling the virtues, quirks and secrets of each graduate. Another highlight was the special award for each

grad by Kristine Kolman. The slide show

by Brenda Dyck gave us an inside view of the growth and development of each.

One set of grandparents, it was said, traveled eight hours each way that very day to attend.

Thanks to all those who put time and effort to make this event happen. It was a memorable evening. More importantly we will remember you graduates. May God go with you in all your future endeavours.

Oh, I forgot to say, I won a door prize.

Anybody need a pottery fountain? On second thought, I’d better keep it.

Alvin Zentner

ACF grade 12 graduates were honoured on June 6.

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

with our churches

Membership and dedications Fort Frances, Ont.: June 21, 2009, was a special Sunday in the life of our church and in the lives of my family as well.

That Sunday morning my husband and I became members of the Fort Frances Evangelical Fellowship Church. We also participated in the parent/child dedication service.

Darcy and I (Yvonne) gave our testimonies and received the right hand of fellowship to become members. I transferred my membership from the

Ridgewood EMC (near Giroux, Man.) and Darcy transferred his from Lakeside Baptist Church in Kenora, Ont. We already have been quite involved in different aspects of the church, like junior church, music, event planning, teaching Sunday school, and so on.

Therefore we felt that it was time to make a public commitment of our support for the church. We are excited to continue serving here.

However, that was only half of the

Families who dedicated themselves: Clare and Charlene Brubacher with Sean (and other family) and Darcy and Yvonne Friesen with Trent (and other family).

service; the other half was parent/ child dedication. Clare and Charlene Brubacher with Sean and ourselves (Darcy and Yvonne Friesen) with Trent, brought our sons forward and pledged before the church to raise them for the Lord.

A prayer of dedication was given over us all. Our church family then stood in support of us. By standing they also pledged to support us in this.

We thank and praise the Lord for this church where we can serve and be a part of this family.

Yvonne Friesen

Pastoral couple Laural Ann and Jeff Plett flank new members Yvonne and Darcy Friesen.

A busy, challenging summer Mennville (Man.): It’s been a very busy summer for most of us and a somewhat challenging summer due to weather.

We had to say good-bye to a special woman in our church, Mary Friesen, wife of Milton Friesen. She passed away April 26, 2009, after a battle with lung cancer.

She will be missed.

We celebrated this summer with graduations, weddings, and anniversaries.

Many of us were at Beaver Creek Bible Camp; many of us helped with our DVBS program, many helped with hosting the EMC national convention; the youth were at Abundant Springs, enjoyed a camping trip to Hecla and helped staff Midway Bible Camp, which is close to Thompson, Man. A few families moving out of the area will leave a big hole. Glen and Betty Plett moved to Kenora, Ont. Chris and Vanessa Bennett, with son Lane, moved to Anola, Man. Kevin and Sandi Widenmaier and

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

family moved to Abbotsford, B.C. We will miss you, but wish you all the best as you settle into a new place.

We are saddened by the closing of the Mennville School, which opened its doors October 1952 and closed its door for the final time on June 30, 2009.

Most of the kids will be going to the public school in Riverton where we hope and pray they can be a good influence.

Because of declining enrollment, the board decided that it would be beneficial to close the school. The school has always been a place that draws the community together and now we are wondering where it will go from here.

Most of the kids will be going to the public school in Riverton where we hope and pray they can be a good influence to the non-churched kids. A few of the kids will be going to the Morweena Christian School.

A garage sale was held at the school on Aug 18 for us to take some mementos home to remember the school by.

Proceeds from the sale will go toward a mission project to be determined.

This summer we have been doing a “one another” series and have had different speakers taking different topics.

Among them: Pray for one another, serve one another, forgive one another, love one another, accept one another, encourage one another, and be kind to one another.

Barry Barkman, Terry Dueck, Dwight Plett, and Mark Westman came up with creative, encouraging, and challenging messages.

Luella Brandt

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EMC and

Statement of Faith Church Practices A 25-part series

George Toews

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.

8. SOCIETIES AND ASSOCIATIONS We believe Christians are not to become part of any organizations where oaths or secret vows are required for membership or where such membership might foster the formation of intimate alliances with unbelievers.

Christians should not become involved in cults and in the occult (Matthew 7:15; John 3:21; Acts 19:17–20; 2 Corinthians 6:14–18; Ephesians 5:8–13; 1 Timothy 4:17; James 5:12; 1 John 4:1–2; 2 John 7).

Church Practices Article 8: Societies and Associations

G

od has left us, as people who follow Christ, in a world which does not follow Him. That creates challenges which sometimes become serious tensions. In its title, this article identifies Societies and Associations as one area of potential tension.

Its text mentions “organizations where oaths or secret vows are required for membership,” “cults,” and “the occult” as areas where following Christ comes in conflict with participation in these organizations.

The key phrase in the article, which guides us in making decisions about that tension, is “intimate alliances.” This implies that we can have relationships with unbelievers because, as Paul says, “I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people—not at all meaning the people of this world…

In that case you would have to leave this world” (1 Corinthians 5:9–10).

It also implies that we can have all kinds of associations which give us the opportunity to be the

Could this article and its principle also apply to business partnerships? We need to ask, “Could this covenant conflict with my primary allegiance to Christ?”

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light of the world, because Jesus says, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14).

However, as followers of Christ, we have made a commitment to Jesus, which is the primary allegiance in our life.

The phrase “intimate alliances” teaches that the close associations which we are called to avoid are those which could require us to turn away from our allegiance to Christ.

Paul affirms this covenant: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? …For we are the temple of the living God.’” (2 Corinthians 6:14–16).

The article may originally have been written to warn about alliances with lodges like the Masons, cults like Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the occult. However, we ought also to consider other situations in which we may be asked to enter into a covenant relationship with people or groups whose first allegiance is not to Christ.

Could this article and its principle also apply to business partnerships? Marriages?

Trade unions? The questions we need to ask are, “What level of covenant is required?”

“Could this covenant conflict with my primary allegiance to Christ?”

In the early church, believers were asked to say, “Caesar is Lord,” and could not because they lived in a covenant relationship with Jesus as Lord. May we live by the same T commitment! M George Toews is senior pastor of Rosenort EMC.

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

window on missions Ken Zacharias | Foreign Secretary kzacharias@emconf.ca

T

Spanish church leaders meet in Paraguay

he EMC Board of Missions sponsored delegates had visited Nicaragua seven years ago and it was good from Mexico, Nicaragua, and Paraguay to to return the visit. attend the Mennonite World Conference’s I appreciate each one with whom I had the privilege general assembly. In addition to these to travel and visit on this two-day visit. Each one is individuals, the MWC also sponsored one national a dedicated servant and leader in his church and leader from Mexico and two others from Nicaragua to conference. The Lord has blessed his work in Mexico, attend its gathering.

Nicaragua, and Paraguay with the provision of leaders Prior to the MWC, Carlos Martinez (Mexico) such as these. and Nicolas Sequeira (Nicaragua) and I traveled An EMC gathering was held on July 14 for those to Caaguazú, East Paraguay, to visit a few of our who came to attend the MWC from Canada, Paraguay, Paraguayan church leaders and their ministries.

Mexico, and Nicaragua. Although not all who traveled to It was a privilege to have Pastor Agripino Presentado Paraguay were able to attend, 39 people came together share with us the vision that the San Miguel church has for this special day. for three suburbs surrounding their church community It was interesting to observe that, although many in Caaguazú. This church currently has about 40 people of the people did not know each other, it did not take in attendance and is strategically planning for church long for conversations to begin throughout the room. growth.

Following a more formal program, conversations We appreciated Richarh Rojas (director of the continued while some typical Paraguayan foods were Caaguazú Christian bookstore, Ñeé Porá) and EMC eaten for dinner. missionary Travis Zacharias spending the day with us The gathering included a time to sing, share, and and taking us to Tres Palmas to visit the radio station, pray with one another. Esther Goertzen translated Radio Mensajero. This visit led to conversations later as delegates from each country shared about their in the week as to how churches can conference, church life, and ministries. network with ministries such as A theme was to request prayer for We can support and pray Christian radio to reach their church the ongoing need for strong leadership community. in their churches and conference. This for each other no matter We also visited the Sta. Teresa prayer request, among others, was which nationality we Indian Settlement where Agusto then prayed for as those in attendance may be or country we Fernandez ministers. Agusto shared divided into small groups. passionately about his ministry and The unity in the body of Christ may live in. love for those in Sta. Teresa. Agusto was evident at this gathering. It is an encouragement that we are one with one another, and that we can support and pray for each other no matter which nationality we may be or country we may live in.

So let’s pray together for the theme expressed at the gathering. Let’s join hands and pray for strong leadership in our Canadian, Mexican, Nicaraguan, and Paraguayan T churches and conferences. M An EMC gathering was held on July 14 for those who came to attend Mennonite World Conference from Canada, Paraguay, Mexico, and Nicaragua. The unity in the body of Christ was evident at this gathering.

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

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news

Recession will devastate developing countries Although the recession might be easing in Canada, in many developing countries it has barely begun and the impact will be devastating.

Many families in Africa, Asia, and Latin America spend between 50 to 70 percent of their income on basic food, says MCC’s Bruce Guenther. With food prices up to triple what they were, little is left for education and medicine. People are beginning to lose their jobs.

Last year food aid donations were higher than ever, needed as MCC responded to hunger caused by natural disasters, skyrocketing food prices, and climate change.

In terms of need, this next year looks to be worse. The United Nations expects more than one billion will be hungry—the highest ever. The World Bank expects the recession to trap 53 million more people in poverty, defined as living on less than $1.25 U.S a day.

There is still enough food produced to feed everyone, says MCC’s Willie Reimer, though the surplus is smaller.

Problems are unequal access to food and land, high costs of fuel and fertilizer, extreme weather conditions, a loss of farming skills, and conflict (including landmines).

MCC is increasing its emergency food

notes

aid, helping farmers increase production, and advocating for just food systems.

Here is what you can do: Pray that hungry people will soon have enough to eat. Pray for people struggling to provide comfort and food to the hungry.

Live simply so that your lifestyle is not a burden on the poor.

Speak out for the poor and hungry so that they are not forgotten by governments.

Donate to MCC or its account at the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

For more information visit mcc.org/ foodforall/food.

MCC

October 15–November 8 The Story and Song Tour World Vision Humourist Adrian Plass, Musician Glen Soderholm 17 cities, B.C. to Maritimes Talking, humour, storytelling, music, worship, hope www.storyandsong.ca

October 16 World Food Day Canadian Foodgrains Bank 800-665-0377 fastforchange.ca

October 30 MDS Fundraising and Dessert Evening Music, reports, home-made pie Crosshill Mennonite Church Millbank, Ont. 204-261-1274 or 866-261-1274 www.mds.mennonite.net

November 5–8 Business as a Calling 2009 New Frontiers: New Solutions San Jose, California businessasacalling.org

November 7 Gadiso Garsamo and Wayu Wachamo, participants in a food-for-work project in Ethiopia, hoe the weeds around their chat plant.

(Photo by Melissa Engle)

MDS RV projects

EFC resource on human trafficking

In addition to the Green Valley Lake RV project, MDS will be opening two RV projects in the Gulf Coast this fall. One project will be in Cheek, Texas, repairing homes damaged by Hurricane Ike. The second project will be in New Iberia, Louisiana, repairing homes damaged by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Two dates for the RV projects are November 2 to 26 and November 30 to December 17.

RV project volunteers serve for one month or more, live in self-contained RVs, prepare their own meals, and serve on the project four days or 24 hours per week. Interested volunteers please contact the Akron office (800-241-8111) or the Winnipeg office (866-261-1274).

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada’s Centre for Faith and Public Life has just released a three-minute video clip to inform and alert congregations and youth groups to the issue of human trafficking around the world.

Over 600 women and children are trafficked into Canada each year for sexual exploitation. Fifteen hundred to 2,200 people are trafficked from Canada to the U.S. annually, making Canada a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking.

Feel free to use the clip in your church or ministry gatherings.

Check www.evangelicalfellowship.ca for the video and other resources about human trafficking.

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coming events

New Songs for Worship IV Dr. Christine Longhurst and others Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. www.cmu.ca

November 8 Peace Sunday Your congregation MCC Canada canada.mcc.org/peacesunday iamrevolting.org

November 8 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church Free 2009 resource kit Persecuted, Not Abandoned www.idop.ca

November 14 Meetiing MCC 2009 Eden High School St. Catherines, Ont. mcc.org/ontario 905-646-3161 519-745-8458

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

shoulder tapping 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).

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.

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.

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.

North Kildonan Mennonite Brethren Church in Winnipeg, Man., is looking for a children’s ministry director. The children’s director, who will focus on visioning and implementing a Christ-centred children’s program, will be an integral part of the pastoral leadership team.

The children’s director is a half-time position.

For an applicant who also has a vision for small groups ministry, consideration will be given for a full-time position including both ministry responsibilities. NKMB is a multi-generational congregation of nearly 600 members with many young families. Inquiries and resumes may be sent to: Search Committee, NKMB, 1315 Gateway Rd., Winnipeg MB R2G 1P2 or email: brigittep@nkmb.org.

Continental Mission in Thompson, Man., needs a general director. This is an executive position. Qualifications for this position includes ministry experience, and an ability to lead and

THE MESSENGER October 7, 2009

Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm challenge missionaries in various ministries. A knowledge of the Word and a walk with the Lord are essential.

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. The director will need to live in Thompson. Experience in working with Aboriginal people is an asset.

Send your resume to the chairman of the board: Ruben Goertzen, Box 57, Ashern, MB R0C 0E0, e-mail rgoertz@mts.net, phone 204-7682455. Or call the interim director, Bill Penner, at 204-778-8771 for information.

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.

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

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.

Gruthal Bergthaler Mennonite Church is prayerfully seeking a senior pastor who has a heart for people and is community outreach minded.

We are an evangelical church located in Grunthal, Man., 45 minutes southeast of Winnipeg, and 20 minutes southwest of Steinbach. The town consists of about 1,000 people and is supported by a strong farming community. The church is multi-generational, with a core of middle-aged families, a strong youth program run by a full-time youth pastor, and a strong Sunday school program.

We seek a pastor who has the heart of a shepherd and a desire to see our church grow through reaching the lost and investing in the church’s people. He should have strong preaching and teaching skills. The candidate must have a Bible college degree. Some pastoral experience is preferred. He must be in agreement with our constitution and statement of faith.

Anyone who possesses these qualifications and is interested in this position can forward their resume, along with references, to the following address: Grunthal Bergthaler Church, Box 70, Grunthal, MB R0A 0R0, Attn: Elder Board; or e-mail gbmcleadelder@mts.net.

Rainbow Christian School, in Vanderhoof, BC, seeks 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.

births du PLOOY – to Warren and Susanne du Plooy of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Johannes Peter, on August 29, 2009.

PLETT – to Ryan and Heather Plett of Rosenort, Man., a daughter, Rayya Katherine Faith, on September 7, 2009.

GUENTHER – to John and Susie Guenther of Aylmer, Ont., a daughter, Temiah Suann, on September 14, 2009.

GOSMAN – Scott and Stacey Gosman of Fort Frances, Ont., a daughter, Alexis Gillian, on September 17, 2009.

only $2.50 each!

Pastors, youth/adult Sunday School teachers, small group leaders: Have you tried Follow Me yet?

This 13-lesson study booklet is written by EMCers for EMCers.

Contact the Conference office to get copies: 204-326-6401 rroman@emconf.ca

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MWC’s general assembly: a foretaste of Rev. 7:9–10

H

ave you ever participated in a Communion service of 6,000 people? This was our happy experience this summer at the Assembly of the Mennonite World Conference in Asunción,

Ron Penner

Paraguay.

The conference theme was Come Together in the Way of Jesus Christ and the sharing of the bread and cup as symbols of our unity in Christ was possibly the most powerful statement possible.

The characteristics of what it means to be the Body of Christ were visible throughout the week-long gathering, but were especially demonstrated in this service by the variety of participants: young and old, rich and poor, male and female, multi-racial, many cultures yet one in their faith in Jesus Christ.

There was a second profoundly significant event at Amor y Fe (Love and faith) performed on stage to music by a Paraguayan choir at a this MWC assembly. The Lutheran World Federation Friday service. represented by Rev. Dr. Ishmael Noko of Zimbabwe (Photo by Merle Good) announced to the global Anabaptist community that they were preparing to formally the gathered Anabaptist congregation, saying a ask for forgiveness for Lutheran formal request for forgiveness will be forthcoming The characteristics persecution of Anabaptists in the at the LWF Council in 2010. of what it means to 16th century.

Following the lengthy, yet heartfelt presentation “What we did to Anabaptists be the Body of Christ by the Lutheran leader, he and Danisa Ndlovu, the was wrong,” Noko confessed to new president of MWC, embraced on the platform were visible. as a public show of love and reconciliation in the body of Christ.

Paraguay’s 32,000 Mennonites did a fabulous job of hosting this worldwide gathering of Mennonites. Visitors from 62 countries were represented, with many languages being spoken.

The local language used was Spanish so that those of us who used English as our primary language needed translation for many occasions. The local hosting committee was comprised of half German-speaking Mennonites with the others being more fluent in Spanish, Guarani, or other indigenous languages.

Truly, the worship, fellowship and service of such a diverse Mennonite assembly was a foretaste of the scene in Rev. 7:9–10 where the saints from many “tongues and tribes” are gathered around the throne of God in T praise and worship. M Chris Marshall from New Zealand (foreground) Antonio Gonzalez, a theologian from Spain, leads the speaks in English with sequential, on-stage Bible study on “Uniting in Christ.” translation into Spanish.

(Photo by Merle Good) (Photo by Lowell Brown)

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Ron Penner (Braeside) recently completed his term of service as EMC moderator. He is our conference’s representative to MWC. THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914