The Messenger Vol. 48 No. 13 December 2010

THE

MESSENGER

volume 48, number 13 December 2010

www.emconference.ca/messenger

Christmas a season of hope

Waiting for the Promise pp. 8–9 The First Priority: The Gospel to All Nations pp. 10–12 The ConneXion profile pp. 13–15

$2.00

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

editorials

The defining Person of history and beyond

A

small white building stood is somewhere else. in the rural farming comBut decades ago I became munity of Knee Hill Valley aware of the stories of Jesus. in central Alberta.

Within the United Church my The inside contained rich need became known, and within it wood, framed lists of people who the wonderful figure of Jesus was served in wartime, and an artist’s presented. framed painting of Jesus.

In response, through the leadAmong those who gathered ing of Jesus, I have been taken on a there—the KHV United Church—I journey of discipleship and discovbecame aware of Jesus and was ery in mainline and evangelical introduced to congregational life. circles—and for 30 years within Years later, the congregation disbanded; the building The voyage is never easy. My went unused. My wife and I later saw the building faring discipleship is hugely imperfect. worse for its years and I am a needy person dependecommissioning.

The congregation scatdent upon grace. tered. The painting of Jesus

the EMC. The voyage is never easy. My discipleship is hugely imperfect.

I am a needy person dependent upon grace.

But because of Jesus, the journey is worthwhile.

Jesus is friendly and sometimes elusive, approachable and somewhat mysterious, paradoxical. He is Lord, Saviour, God and man, and more.

Advent is when Christians can rediscover Jesus, when those who dismissed him can take another look, when some can hear about him for the first time.

Advent can be a rich time to rediscover the defining Person of history and beyond.

Terry M. Smith

A tough year ends

F

or many EMCers, 2010 has been a tough year.

Some have lost jobs.

Others have been forced out of farming or are close to it.

Some face serious illness in themselves or someone close.

Others grieve over the death of a family member or friend.

Business owners made tough decisions; employees faced difficult consequences.

Some people are battered by life; others struggle in their faith.

And if 2011 brings hope, then some EMCers are ready bring in the New Year!

Yet pain is not removed, nor change dictated, by the mere flip of a page on a calendar.

Glib words are not needed.

2

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

Pain is not removed, nor change dictated, by the mere flip of a page on a calendar.

They would, literally, add insult to injury. What is needed is a sense of community in Christ.

People such as Dr. Arden Thiessen and Dr. Ed Neufeld (Providence Theological Seminary) would perhaps point us to the writings of Peter.

When Peter wrote to Christians scattered across Asia, believers were isolated and hurting from circumstances beyond their control. They were being marginalized, and this affected their social standing, economics, relationships, and more.

Peter’s letters are not glib; reading them, we can glimpse the pain felt by Christians to whom he was ministering.

The apostle did not want hurting believers to look prematurely from their pain, but he did want them to look to Jesus the Crucified, who knows what it is like to be rejected, marginalized, in pain, and with questions.

May 2011 be a blessed year for many in pain now!

Terry M. Smith

contents Features

With our missionaries

8

17 Mozambique: Church development in Maputo

Waiting for the Promise – Rebecca Roman

10 The First Priority: The Gospel to All Nations

– Dr. David W. Shenk

18 Mexico: Dust, a town crier, and calendars 19 Paraguay: Reaching out in Minga Guazú

13 The ConneXion: Connecting with God and each other

19 The Philippines: Where's my purse?

– Terry Smith

20 Nicaragua: Enock gains confidence at CINAG!

16 Poem: H-O-P-E

21 Juarez, Mexico: Youth pastor calls on God to fight fear, drug issues

– Eleanor Gustaw

With our churches 22 Riverton Gospel Chapel: RGC works to build community

10 Columns 6

Archives Alcove

3

Pontius’ Puddle

30 In memory 31 Shoulder tapping 32 Index 4

TRU assists in building unity

5

Michael Brandt loves the Church!

24 Heartland Community Church: Teaching VBS in Grand Rapids is important!

25 Oak Bluff Bible Church: OBBC is five years old!

7

Writings shared

27 Braeside EMC: Two members at Braeside

Birth and rebirth – Joanna Plett

Editorials

23 Heartland Community Church: Heartland holds baptism

2

News

26 Steinbach EMC: Let your lights shine

27 Pictures of God

Departments

22 Pelly Fellowship Chapel: Bruce and Tracy get married!

Colonization evangelism, an oxymoron?

– Terry M. Smith Review: Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense

17

16 Christmas Greetings from the EM Conference office staff 30 Continental Mission appoints new interim board

27 Fish Creek Christian Fellowship: Truly we are one body!

25

28 Stewardship today

Thy will be done – Arnie Friesen

36 Kids’ Corner

Be a peacemaker!

– Loreena Thiessen

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

3

THE

MESSENGER

news

TRU assists in building unity ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Roman rroman@emconf.ca

Submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca THE MESSENGER is the monthly 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.

One hundred youth leaders encourage one another STEINBACH, Man.—For the 100 youth leaders who attended the October 15–17, 2010, retreat, team-building was a major highlight.

TRU, EMC’s youth leaders’ retreat, included opportunities to build unity within leadership teams as well as within the larger body of leaders.

Other highlights included main speaker Brian West, five workshops and four forums to choose from, and a majestic setting in Manitoba’s Whiteshell Provincial Park.

Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

Advertising and inserts should not be considered to carry editorial endorsement.

TRU stands for Train, Refresh, Unite, the three main purposes that guide this retreat.

THE MESSENGER is published by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St, Steinbach, Man. Subscription rates: 1 year $24 ($30 U.S., $45 foreign) 2 years $44 ($55 U.S., $85 foreign) 3 years $65 ($82 U.S., $125 foreign) Manitoba residents add 7% PST. Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents.

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

Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba.

ISSN #0701-3299 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 Registration #09914 We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund, for our publishing activities.

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 www.emconference.ca/messenger

Messenger Schedule:

No. 1 – January 2011 issue (copy due December 17)

TRU stands for Train, Refresh, Unite, the three main purposes that guide the planning and implementation of this retreat. Geared primarily for youth workers within EMC churches and para-church ministries, the retreat happens every two years.

Training took place during three main sessions, five workshops, and four forums. Workshops addressed topics such as Compassion Fatigue, led by Chris Marchand (Providence College) and Addicted to Media, led by Trenton Penner (Steinbach EMC).

Forums explored discipleship resources and discussed the value of missions within the youth ministry environment, among other things.

The National Youth Main speaker Brian West

PHOTOS: GERALD D. REIMER

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

Youth leaders peruse resources made available at the retreat.

Committee (NYC), comprised of Peter Ascough (Kleefeld EMC), Jason Heide (Steinbach EMC), Jason Dueck (Prairie Grove), Trenton Penner (Steinbach EMC), Brigitte Toews (Heartland), and Gerald Reimer (Conference Youth Minister), also promoted another well-known event taking place in May 2011, Abundant Springs, with the theme “Not to us...” (from Psalm 115:1).

NYC members trust that churches all around the conference will prepare for and send their students to this EMC youth discipleship conference. Promotional material will be forwarded to your churches in the coming weeks.

Gerald D. Reimer Conference Youth Minister

EMC youth leaders gathered October 15–17 to Train, Refresh, and Unite.

4

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

news

Michael Brandt loves the Church!

HEPBURN, Sask.—When I asked one "The challenge for me and maybe of Bethany’s 2010 interns for a short article on his experience at the College this for some of you is to live a life year, fourth-year student Michael Brandt that is centred around a thankful (Rosenort EMC) happily responded with...

I have the most incredible opportunity to response to what God has freely be the men’s Residence Director at Bethany College. I love being able to talk, interact lavished on His children." and simply be with other young men who are searching for a deeper relationship with Jesus.

Michael Brandt received the Jake A. that the Church would become more like a The brotherhood that I have experienced and Iona Wiebe Memorial Scholarresidence community in some senses. in my four years of college life is like no other ship of $1,000 in Bethany’s 2010 And please do not hear me saying that I community I have been a part of before. I Awards chapel. think the Church is all messed up and that have grown in so many ways while I have the dorm community is perfect. I love the been at Bethany. I have become more confident in my own Church and I know that it is God’s biggest instrument in skin. bringing His kingdom to earth.

I have grown to find a huge appreciation and love for the However, I believe that we could all use a little more Church. I have grown in my passion for serving as a response connectedness, we could all use a little more acceptance, we to what God has done for me and for all of us. My dream is could all use a little more love with no strings attached to it.

Pictured is Michael Brandt (Rosenort EMC) with his Residence Assistants, student leaders whose role includes encouraging and providing care to students, discipleship, and residence supervision: Dave Carey (Associate Dean), Steven Schmidt, Tim Falk, David Zentner (Abbeydale Christian Fellowship), Michael Brandt, Joe Molina, Matt Bergen, and Erick Penner.

Subscribe to The Messenger electronically Prefer e-copy to hard copy? Issues of The Messenger will be available electronically beginning in January 2011. To receive the electronic version, sign up on-line at www. emconference.ca/messenger or e-mail messenger@ emconf.ca. Provide your name, mailing address, and e-mail address, and indicate whether you wish to continue receiving the print version or not.

For those who are not members or adherents of an EMC church, there will be a $15 annual subscription fee to receive the electronic version only; no additional fee applies if the full print subscription rate is paid.

My opportunity to invest time in the lives of young men and also my time of allowing them to invest in me has been such a blessing.

So the challenge for me and maybe for some of you is to live a life that is centred around a thankful response to what God has freely lavished on His children.

God does not owe us anything and yet He has given us everything. Let us remind ourselves of that daily so that we never lose sight of how blessed we are to have been saved by our Lord!

Darlene Dyck Communications Coordinator Bethany College

Radical Followers of Jesus DVD A DVD highlighting men and women who “display radical forgiveness, radical love and radical peace” has been produced by the Evangelical Anabaptist Fellowship of Canada.

The 54-minute DVD can used in worship services, Sunday School, small groups, or family life.

DVDs can be obtained for $11.20 (plus shipping) from the EMC office (204-326-6401 or rroman@emconf.ca) or from EAF, Box 323, Winkler, MB R6W 4A5, Ph. 204-325-8248, E-mail eafellowship@gmail.com.

EAF

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

5

archives alcove

by Terry Smith

Colonization evangelism, an oxymoron?

I

PHOTO: EMC ARCHIVES

One story I was told troubles me: n the 1950s and a bit later the oxymoron—a contradiction in terms. an early pastor reportedly wrote in EM Conference practiced what Colonies are defined by boundaries a letter about how a few Christians writer Sue Barkman described and separateness; evangelism does lived among unbelievers. One as “multiplication by division” or not normally happen that way. wonders what aware“colonization evangelism.” ness this minister had DGR Mennonite families of Christians with other were short of farmland and convictions. concerned about establishing Did Lutherans, new churches. Families from United Church people, Steinbach, Blumenort, Prairie Baptists, Catholics, and Rose, Kleefeld, and Rosenort Orthodox believers churches moved to new areas feel understood and and farmed in near-pioneer appreciated by EMCers conditions (Sue Barkman, Everwho relocated? Within Widening Circles, 1978, 169).

Canadian communiBarkman described the Mennville EMC congregation (1989) with Jacob L. Kroeker preaching. ties, church hismovement’s intention as that tory rarely begins when “the Mennonite people would Anabaptists move in. live with, work beside, and become Yet witness and ministry ocIt is perhaps telling that our neighbours of people of other ethnic curred. Paradoxically, evangelism by backgrounds.” colonization was for the EMC a move conference-sponsored history book Seeking to be Faithful (1996) covers toward greater openness.

EMC church growth in Canada Our conference gained churches: Paradoxically, evangelism by within a scant four pages (139, Fisher Branch, Heron, Kola, 142–144). Why such limited attention Mennville, Riverton, Morweena, colonization was for the EMC a to Canadian church growth? Did a Treesbank, Pansy (Barkman, move toward greater openness. focus on inwardness again triumph 169)—most of which still exist. Such over outreach? congregations are to be treasured.

But it is now 2010. Time passes.

Make no mistake, the families Further, within these congregaChanges happen. who moved did so at great personal tions there are now people of nonToday our conference is much cost, worked hard, and persevered.

DGR Mennonite backgrounds who less about colonization and much They established churches that have joined the congregations with more about evangelism, as shown spiritually nurtured their families enrichment happening both ways. and benefited the wider communiHowever, if, as Barkman suggests, by Come See What God Has Done (2003), our formal history in ties in various ways. We are indebted the goal was “identification” (169), missions. to them. the reviews are mixed.

Today some of our aggressive Gaining farmland and increasing Barkman’s 1978 description of missions involvement and innovative the number of churches to serve the movement shows some of the church planting comes from where DGR Mennonite families were two barriers in thinking: “the Mennonite “colonization” occurred years ago. important basic needs to a largely people,” “people of other ethnic We can, then, reflect on this homogeneous, rural conference. backgrounds” (emphasis added). “colonization” period with both They were legitimate desires reflectIf faith in Christ was central, why appreciation and concern—and look ing the mindset of the time. were peoplehood and Mennonite as to the future with anticipation.

At first glance, evangelism by ethnicity highlighted in Barkman’s colonization would seem to be an description of this time?

6

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

writings shared

Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense, N. T. Wright (HarperOne, 2006), 256 pp. ,$24.99. ISBN 978-0061920-62-2. Reviewed by Rick Bettig, associate pastor, Steinbach EMC.

S

imply Christian, a book by N. T. Wright, seeks to show how the Christian story remains relevant in our contemporary “postmodern” culture.

Wright identifies four “echoes of a voice” (chapters 1–4) or “features of life” which he suggests serve as signposts to a higher reality. In the next section (chapters 5–10), he outlines the central features of the Christian faith by considering who God is and how God has made himself known.

He attempts to demonstrate that in Jesus of Nazareth heaven and earth have come together once and for all. In the concluding section (chapters 11–16) Wright describes the activity of the Christian church

(orthopraxy), with chapters on prayer, Scripture, and Christian living.

Wright proves that he is a capable historian—particularly as he discusses the trustworthiness of the gospels as a precursor to a solid defense of the historicity of Jesus as a living person (chapter 7).

Following such a bold apologetic for the historic Jesus, it is disappointing to discover that Wright is somewhat less forceful in advancing specific truths clearly advocated by the gospel writers. In one instance the author states that he does “not think that Jesus knew he was divine,” yet in the gospels it is clearly apparent even with a casual reading of selected passages that Jesus knew He was Deity.

Wright proves that he is a capable historian— particularly as he discusses the trustworthiness of the gospels.

Wright does not wander far from mainstream Anglicanism—tenets of faith that have clearly informed his theological understanding. Thus, it should be expected that the author’s theological conclusions will not always prove consistently compatible to Anabaptist thought and practice.

There is no doubt that Wright has a sensitive ear in terms of what our culture longs for and we can accept Wright’s call to be followers of Jesus who speak His message in a way that is relevant, loving and compassionate.

Did God speak to you?

Theodidaktos: Journal for EMC theology and education seeks 3,500word papers written on the “God spoke to me” phenomenon. What do EMCers come up with as to a theology on how God speaks today to his people? Do some hear audible voices or others receive nudges? What is the theological basis for such communication?

Please inquire or send submissions to Editor Darryl Klassen, Box 129, Kleefeld, MB R0A 0V0; kemc@mts.net; 204-377-4773. There is currently no honorarium for submissions, but the Journal assists our theological education and discernment together.

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

7

Waiting for the Promise

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

by Rebecca Roman

A

dvent: For us, it’s the four weeks before Christmas. Eagerly we count down. Today, only 12 more “sleeps” till Christmas!

So, too, the Israelites eagerly waited for the time when their Saviour would come. From the time shortly after the Jews’ return to the land of Israel and the birth of Christ there is…silence.

For about four hundred years there is no word from the Lord. But he promised that a Saviour would come, and so the people wait.

During this time of silence, God is preparing them for something big and unexpected—so unexpected that few recognize it when it comes.

Liberating words The Israelites are oppressed and burdened.

Anyone who rebels against Roman authority is killed. They live in hope that God will speak again, liberating words that will give them new life and hope.

They received a promise that allowed them to wait; they were present to the moment.

And he does. Not in a mighty thunder from heaven, but in the words of a baby just learning to talk. A baby who grew up to bring liberty, not just to his own people, but to all peoples of the world who would ever live.

A glorious promise—hope and freedom—liberty for all captives! Who would have believed it if they heard it?

Zechariah couldn’t even at first believe that he would father a son to prepare the way of the Messiah.

8

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

Perhaps he thought, How could it be that God would do this marvelous thing through me?

As a sign that God did indeed have the power to fulfill his promise, the power of speech was taken from Zechariah.

To Mary and Elizabeth also was given the knowledge that the promise of long ago was soon to be fulfilled. And so they wait.

Not just sitting around passively, but waiting with a sense of promise.

They received a promise that allowed them to wait; they were present to the moment.

Just as Christ came in bodily form one chaotic, busy day, so he also enters into the mess and chaos of our own lives.

Pay attention!

Henri Nouwen says, “That is why they could hear the angel. They were alert, attentive to the voice that spoke to them and said, ‘Don’t be afraid.

Something is happening to you. Pay attention’” (“Waiting for God,” Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas, p. 32).

That “something” that was happening allowed each person to burst out in joy. Mary can’t hold it in, and she breaks out in praise: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour… the Mighty One has done great things for me, His mercy extends to those who fear Him” (Luke 1:46-47, 49).

The first words out of Zechariah’s mouth after his period of imposed silence are, “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people…to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear” (Luke 1:68, 74).

Simeon and Anna, who have now grown old while waiting to see the Saviour, also express thanks and praise to God that they have, at last, “seen the salvation” that was promised (Luke 2:30).

To those words, we say a resounding “Amen!”

Our Redeemer has come; the promise has been fulfilled.

The hope we have is a living hope and dwells within us. Because we have received and believed the Word of promise, the fulfillment of the Word in person, Jesus Christ, lives in us.

We are free!

We are free from the power of sin and death.

Free to live and to serve our Saviour without fear.

And not because of our worthiness, but because of his mercy, as both Mary and Zechariah express.

While we have seen the promise fulfilled, there is also a sense in which we are also waiting for

its complete fulfillment. When we receive Christ, something happens.

A work is begun within us, a work that transforms us, a work in our hearts and minds to make us more of what we are meant to be.

And so we hold our breath, collectively, expectantly and ask, How can it be that you, Lord, would choose to do this amazing thing in and through me? Yet we choose to trust, “being confident that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).

Some Christmas cards show a serene scene of Mary, Joseph and a peacefully sleeping Christ child.

We sing about the “Silent Night” and “O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie.”

Given that the “little town of Bethlehem” was filled to bursting, it is highly unlikely that it was still and silent as the cards and carols depict.

More likely, the crowds were rushing here and there looking for a meal and a place to stay, running into old friends and relatives—likely the traffic was horrendous. Into this chaos and bustle, Christ came.

People of hope So, we hold to the truth that, just as Christ came in bodily form one chaotic, busy day, so he also enters into the mess and chaos of our own lives. And so, this Advent, I am thinking about hope.

Because of Jesus Christ, I am not beyond hope—no one is! He is the reason for the hope we proclaim: “Don’t be afraid. Something is happening to you. Pay attention!”

Rebecca Roman, BA (Steinbach Bible College), is assistant editor of The Messenger, and administrative assistant to the EMC Board of Church Ministries.

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

9

T

Revelation 6

the

iumph

LAMB

of the

Christ, His Church in Mission

The First Priority: The Gospel to

All Nations PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

by Dr. David W. Shenk

We are called to take Jesus wherever he decides that we should go.

10

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

W

hen I was about 12 years old, our church at Bumangi in Tanzania commissioned our first missionary. His name was Sungura, meaning Rabbit.

Our church was about ten years old, for this was a congregation of the first believers in Christ within the Bumangi region of the Zanaki tribe in Tanzania. We commissioned Sungura and his wife to take the Gospel to a clan among the Zanaki people where there was no Christian presence.

The sermon text for their commissioning affected me. The preacher built his message on Matthew 24:14: “And this Gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world, as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

We heard that our commitment to sending our first missionary to proclaim the Gospel within a clan that had never heard of Jesus Christ was exceedingly significant. We were cooperating with the Holy Spirit in preparing the earth for the second coming of Christ.

We learned that before Christ returns, all nations will hear the Gospel. Our little congregation was helping to prepare the earth for the second coming of Christ.

I was tremendously gripped by that vision. I went to my bedroom, and there alone before God opened my piggy bank where I was saving money to buy a bicycle with my brother. I took half of those savings to the church as an offering to help enable Sungura to go to an unreached people.

Some years later my brother and I did get a bicycle, and we enjoyed that cycle immensely.

But the joy I experienced that Sunday morning at Bumangi in contributing generously for the missionary outreach of our church far exceeded the joy of getting a bicycle.

Proclaiming Christ In Revelation 5 Jesus is entrusted with the book of history. Now in Revelation 6 we see that proclaiming the Gospel to the nations is the first priority for Jesus. As soon as Jesus receives the book of history, he opens the first seal. A white horse comes forth with a crown. He has a bow and goes forth as a conqueror. A bow alone does not kill.

Who is this rider and what is the white horse who conquers, but without weapons that kill? I realize that there are a variety of responses to that question.

I suggest that we accept the interpretation of the early Church Fathers who believed that the horse is the church and the rider is Christ whom the church carries forth into the nations. The

church fathers saw this horse and rider as a metaphor of Matthew 24:14: the Gospel going forth to all nations.

If we accept that interpretation, then it is most noteworthy that as soon as Lamb receives the book of history, he calls forth the Church to become his horse to take him to the nations. A horse is useless that functions independently of the rider.

If Christ is the rider and the Church, or each of us individually, is the horse, then it is absolutely necessary that we obey the wishes of the rider. We go wherever he wants us to go! That is the missionary calling.

Somalia We are called to take Jesus wherever he decides that we should go. That is why my wife and I went to Muslim Somalia. That was not our choice.

There was only one possible reason for us going to Somalia.

We went because Jesus our Lord revealed that we were to be his horse taking him to Somalia.

Jesus will commission others to be his horse taking him into the business world within the suburbs of Leamington.

He needs us to be his horse to take him into the world. Wherever we take Jesus, he is the one who conquers. His kingdom extends as we take him into the world.

The remaining portion of Revelation 6 reveals the context where we take Jesus. This context is our sinful and disturbed world. Each seal is a revelation of our sinfulness.

For example, when Jesus breaks the second seal (vv. 3–4) a red horse goes forth. He takes peace from the earth. Indeed, we do live in a world of violent rejection of peace.

War is essentially the story of the nations. Jesus needs us to be his horse taking him right into the context of violent upheavals. He is the peace! His presence is needed within the conflicts. (continued p. 12)

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

11

MCC That was the reason MCC got started. Russia was at war. Ukraine, where there were large Mennonite communities, was ruined. Right into that awful horror, MCC entered being a horse for Jesus, taking him right into the heart of the conflict. That engagement continues to be a primary commitment of MCC, taking Jesus into the realms where there is no peace.

When Jesus breaks the third seal, a black horse comes forth (vv. 5–6). This horse is famine amidst bounty. The oil and wine are not touched. Yet a quart of wheat sells for $80 and three quarts of barley cost $80.

Today a billion people go to bed hungry every night. They live on less than a dollar a day. These are the desperately poor who live within the shadow of incredible wealth. As this seal is broken we see revealed the selfishness of the human soul where the wealthy will ravish the poor while they are satiated in opulence.

At present the Western world is getting a ringside view of that reality, for greed is the reason for the economic crisis that has engulfed so many.

To Forgive Debts Then in the midst of it all the white horse brings Jesus. As the whole world approached the year 2000, churches around the world advanced a plan for the millennial year to be a year of Jubilee.

Drawing from the biblical mandate to have a year of forgiving debts, the proposal to the nations and banking systems was that the debts of the poor nations be forgiven. Amazingly that word was heard. Many poor nations had their debts forgiven.

This has given a boost to economic advance among the poor nations.

Even more effective, however, are the grass roots commitments of movements such as the MCC self-help stores which provide fair incomes for the poorest of the poor in so many areas of the world, through selling their crafts through a network of stores in affluent areas of the world. Jesus wants 12

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

his horse to take him into the poor regions of our world as well as the affluent. Both need Jesus!

We cannot adequately comment on all the contexts in which the horse carries Jesus. The fourth seal unleashes a pale horse who is death (vv. 7–8).

The church takes Jesus into the realms of death, such as the Zanaki people among whom I lived for the first ten years of my life. Eighty per cent of the babies there died by the time they were two.

My parents were horses for Jesus, and through his presence a radical transformation began through the introduction of modern medicines and nutrition as well as confrontation with witchcraft.

Today the babies live!

Martyrs The fifth seal describes the martyrs for Christ; the final seal in this chapter is natural calamities.

All of these are the context in which mission happens. Jesus needs us to be his horse taking the Gospel of salvation into the midst of it all.

Like Mother Theresa and her Sisters of Charity in Calcutta, India, who would go from trash barrel to trash barrel in the evening hours to rescue babies. Their heartbroken mothers had abandoned them because they were so hungry that they had no more milk in their breasts to feed their infants.

Those nuns were the body of Christ rescuing these infants and nurturing them back to life, while sharing the eternal saving love of Christ with these children.

Jesus Christ needs horses to take him throughout the world. Will we become a horse for Jesus?

Dr. David W. Shenk was the EMC’s convention speaker in 2010. He has a long history of cross-cultural communication.

PHOTOS: TERRY M. SMITH

O

by Terry M. Smith

n a former art gallery and crafts store at 285 First Avenue in Arborg, Man., hangs the sign above. A small sidewalk sign has Sunday morning details.

At 10 a.m. on October 31, 2010, The ConneXion is bustling.

Pancakes are being made; the serving table has muffins, fruit, and other choices.

Tea, coffee, and juice are offered.

Food is available each Sunday. People visit on chairs near banquet style tables.

Zac Klassen, a stay-at-home dad, explains as people eat and visit that the People eat and visit. At The ConneXion, food is available each Sunday. church has no formal or paid positions.

There is a sign-up sheet for tasks: cleaning, teaching, greeting, providing breakfast.

“What a truth to take into” Halloween, which He says an important “template” for The “stirs up many reactions” from “outright accepConneXion is Michael Frost’s acrostic BELLS— tance to outright rejection.”

Bless, Eat, Learn, Listen, and Send.

He asks, “Might there be a way to ‘celebrate’ Benji Wiebe, 17, says he enjoys the personal Halloween as Christians while not wholeheartnature of the smaller church. He has been involved edly accepting all that sometimes comes with the for two years. His parents, George and Verna complete package?”

Wiebe, are today’s chefs.

There is a “long tradition” of converting pagan Zac goes to the stage, takes a microphone, holidays. All Saints Day was developed to say encourages people to get a refill, and “the dead were not all ghouls and says the service will start shortly. zombies. Among the dead were also the saints.”

The Service Death is to be faced and is Zac leads in a responsive call to overcome in Christ. Only “by the worship taken from Colossians 2:14grace of God do we have hope of a 15 and 1 Corinthians 15:54–57. new, redeemed body beyond death,” He welcomes people and says, he says.

“It can…be hard to actually believe Zac asks for announcements. this truest of facts…that we are There is a Halloween party here from redeemed.”

3 to 6 p.m. with treats for adults and “These same scriptures say death a mini-carnival for children. The has been defeated, that we do not premiere showing of Where Is My need to be slaves to fear, but as Father? is in Riverton on Nov. 7. redeemed people that we can trust in (continued p. 14) Zac Klassen, leadership team the victory of God our Father.” member

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

13

Blessing and Prayer Response Time The church is asked to speak words of blessing Zac asks for responses—including silence—to or prayer requests. what was said. They include: Those who have agreed to help with the • It’s great to have a God where people can Halloween gathering are blessed for providing a have equal access.

Christian alternative.

• That it is a caricature “makes perfect sense.”

Henry Friesen reads from John Fischer: “It • Prayer is loss of control, rather than control. would be a shame and…a victory for the forces of • Pride can be an obstacle. darkness to allow the unfounded fears attached • How did the people feel when they got to Halloween to darken a home where Christ lives home? on the one night of the year • Maybe the two people were the the whole neighborhood is same person at different stages.

The church was coming over.”

• Can we actually forego questioning Prayer is sought and motives? started to identify given for guidance about a The service closes with a benediccareer choice, for a couple tion, ending this way: “Go from this with the community. leading in worship nearby, place with the cry of ‘Abba! Father!’”

Most members live for a woman facing surgery, On this Sunday there has been no for two teenaged friends. singing.

People stay to visit; the ranks in or close to Arborg.

Another is grateful for thin. both travel safety and grandparents.

Teaching Time Zac closes the prayer time, mentioning Peter Dueck, who is teaching this morning.

Looking at Luke 18, Peter is amazed how God calls him to preach about where he is weak. He focuses on The Tale of Two The congregation listens as Peter Dueck teaches on The Tale of Two Prayers.

Prayers, the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican.

Pharisees were respected lay people devoted Interview to law’s study; tax collectors were seen as Jewish Three of the leadership team—Zac Klassen, traitors who worked for Rome.

Henry Friesen, and Peter Dueck—gather for an The Pharisee’s prayer is caricatured to reveal its interview. Trudy Dueck, the fourth member, is flaw: he prayed “about” or “to” oneself. Who prays away. like that? Nobody and everybody, Peter says.

A supper club began in 2005 or 2006 and one We can report on prayer in a self-centred group became three. The first Sunday morning manner without mentioning God. The Publican, meeting was in February 2008. however, prayed in the shadows and said seven The church was started to identify with the words that require no expert training to see his community. Most members live in or close to need.

Arborg.

The Publican goes home right with God; the Sunday attendance runs from 25 to 40 people.

Pharisee goes home without having contacted God. The ConneXion rents half of the building; Youth God is not impressed by flowing words, but by for Christ is renovating the other half. mention of our need—just as Peter’s grandchild The congregation seeks to define itself by looks to him and says, “Owey.” Such a prayer moves what it does through the week, Henry says, not on heaven and earth, he says.

Sunday, as valuable and rich as are its meetings.

Arborg has roughly equal measures of people

14

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

with Icelandic, Ukrainian, and German Mennonite backgrounds and new immigrants.

This is not yet reflected in The ConneXion, says Peter, but relationships during the week are more balanced.

Henry refers to their mission statement: “The ConneXion is a people who seek to make Jesus the center of all they do, building connections with each other, our neighbours both locally and worldwide, and connecting people with their Creator.”

The desire is to reach the wider community, not have people transfer from other churches, Peter says later.

Zac Klassen, Peter Dueck, and Henry Friesen are part of The ConneXion's leadership team. Trudy Dueck was away on this day.

Strengths One strength is people’s participation, Peter says. They “rally” behind needs, Zac says. There are good “inter-generational conversations,” Peter says.

Faith is a journey, a process, rather than distinguishing between those who have arrived and those who have not, Henry says.

Challenges Henry said one challenge is to realize church is not defined by Sunday morning, but is to be taken into the week. There is too much “homogeneity” in “our” background, Peter says.

Peter is co-president of Vidir Machine Inc. and

The ConneXion's structural chart is a circle with spokes, not hierarchical, Peter Dueck says.

While there is no formal, paid pastor, the three bring pastoral gifts and training to the group.

Peter is an ordained EMC minister and church planter who has studied at Bible college and seminary. Henry has a Bible college BA, a master’s degree, and has worked at an offenders’ halfway house. Zac Klassen has a BA in biblical and theological studies from CMU and has completed a pastoral internship.

There is an offering box, yet Peter says they often forget to mention the offering is an act of worship. People are generous, though.

Peter invites Mary Ann and I for lunch and Henry joins us. After all, Henry’s wife Mary will soon return to 285 First Avenue for the Halloween party.

Desiring conneXions makes this Sunday busy for some members. About 20 adults and “20-plus” children attended the party, Henry said later.

Henry is its supply chain manager. Some employees from Vidir are part of the church. How does that affect the congregation’s dynamic? Zac says it has not been a big issue, but it would be “naïve” to think there is no effect. Peter says that if people at work are living authentic lives, others should be attracted.

Structure People bring their gifts to the group, with hospitality as valued as preaching. They are encouraged not to be limited to their strengths, but to volunteer outside of their comfort zone, Henry said.

The ConneXion’s structural chart is a circle with spokes, not hierarchical, Peter says.

Zac, Peter, and Henry each teach about once a month or a bit more; guest speakers fill other times.

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

15

H-O-P-E H e would become the O ne to save the world with the P urpose to set our hearts to E verlasting Life

PHOTO: DREAMSTIME.COM

HOPE came in a manger child,

Enriching the soul, bringing light out of darkness This hope is Jesus Christ, Heaven’s Christmas Child to our world!

Eleanor Gustaw

The EM Conference office staff wish you Merry Christmas: (back) Tim Dyck, General Secretary; Rebecca Roman, Assistant Editor/ Administrative Assistant; David Thiessen, Conference Pastor; Wannetta Fast, Accountant; Ken Zacharias, Foreign Secretary; Terry Smith, Editor/Executive Secretary; (front) Ruth Anne Peters, Administrative Assistant; Gerald Reimer, Conference Youth Minister; Ward Parkinson, Canadian Church Planting Coordinator; Erica Fehr, Administrative Assistant.

16

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

PHOTO: JILLIAN HARDER

Christmas Greetings

Church development in Maputo MOZAMBIQUE

training, which is a huge concern in this large country with its crippling roads.

The influential folk live in Maputo, in the South where churches must be developed. Pastor Vilanculos had that insight from the outset and started such a church in his home after moving into the city.

When they outgrew the living room, they moved into the carport, then into an enlarged carport; and soon they had folk on the street hungry to hear the message of hope.

They finally found a suitable building site, which they bought after a lengthy fundraising effort.

Then, in late 2007, the government condemned the makeshift carport meeting place.

Mozambique came through 27 years of war in 1992, first with a war of independence from Portugal followed by a bitter war of independence.

Suffering was further intensified by prolonged drought.

Many fled and became refugees in neighbouring countries while Pastor Salvador and Aida Vilanculos others, more fortunate, found jobs while abroad. When peace came at home, these exiles returned to their They now have plans to build a families. permanent 420 square-meter facility Refugee Mission had led many to that will seat 500 people, though Christ while they were abroad, and they will likely double that in true some started fellowships in their African style during special events.

Churches are led by sincere communities; many small churches This church is typically generous sprung up almost overnight. to help their less privileged sister leaders but most have little or A high profile Mozambican in churches up north so there will be no Christian training, which is South Africa was among the many many benefits to having this promithat were wonderfully saved and also a huge concern in this large nent “Tent Church� in their new returned home. Convicted of his recountry with its crippling roads. facility. sponsibilities to his people, Salvador They target middle and upper inVilanculos and his family returned come folk in this city of 1.25 million, We had a large unused tent in with the blessing of the Evangelical not counting unregistered shack South Africa, which we donated to Church in South Africa and in 1998 dwellers. Animism has a huge hold serve as a temporary meeting place. became their first missionaries to on the Mozambiquan population, They pitched this on their new site Mozambique. though half of them say Christianity and started with weeklong evangeHe kept running into these new is their religion and one quarter is fellowships who desired membership listic meetings, dedicating it to its Muslim. in the Evangelical Church denomina- new use.

Pastor Vilanculos is itching to tion. Conversion growth move to the next church after the war also reached plant as soon as this one big numbers so that at the is established and led July 2010 EC conference by someone with strong there were 159 churches in pastoral gifts.

Mozambique and 19,000 Joe Reimer members, not counting those from two provinces Joe Reimer (Blumenort) that were not represented at serves with TEAM. the conference.

Churches are led by sincere leaders but most Tent pitched on the new site in Maputo, where the church currently meets. have little or no Christian

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

17

PHOTOS JOE REIMER

with our missionaries

with our missionaries

Dust, a town crier, and calendars

either. On that morning we are often regaled with this kind of music as early as three in the morning.

Instead of using the blank space for advertising, as merchants do, we publish a short story and some Scripture in Zapotec hoping  to entice the Zapotecs to try  reading their language.

Bittuba rixulhati nu biláti uka itú nureha.

Iyá xeaba ka benne ttu ttu sába ririake riake lheexxi.

The most common reacNúrula nú reyaan lhee yoo. Iyábake riria.

Benne diaba daka aná lhe benne diaba daka aní lhe. tion when invited to do so is MEXICO Lheesi nna siiba raka, kwachiruba nú reki lo ka neda. that they can’t read Zapotec.

Ttuba lheexxiha risatsa ka benne yuuke sina.

Benne yuuba gwelhaa lhe benne yuuba uguu lhe.

This isn’t true, of course, I am aroused from a sound Ixebake dia nia lhe ixe looba sina ruinke lhe. since a few brave souls sleep by music coming over Tti ririake lheesi nna ladeeattela ka batsuha richeke.

Rixxuattebake ka nuha iki xuetta etta geke diake always prove that, indeed, the village’s PA system, Batsuha rukuke kini abittu ribiddake tti rodána iyya.

Laxcala meskiba betú sá raka iyya, labí ribiddake. one can. accompanied by the frenetic The 2011 calendar has a Nnanna, bittuba rixulhati tti radú lasia nu uka laania. ringing of the church bells.

Kua rakaba iyya nna rexxatteba lasia ka batsuha. short Zapotec type “poem” Nianna rakati: “Teeru ttu batsu ukua nnanna raka iyya.

It doesn’t feel like it should Kumu yalhá lhee ribina rii lhee ka batsuha.” on it telling about the palm be time to get up. I force raincoats they used to wear open my eyes and shine  many years ago. As we read the flashlight at my alarm the “poem” to the people, clock—4:28 a.m.! they listen and smile.

It’s Sunday morning in A sample of what the Zapotec calendar looks like.

We’ve had some interestthe Zapotec village where coAfter about half an hour of music ing discussions with those who are worker Joan Smith and I work. I know I hear firecrackers—big, booming old enough to remember when the that someone will soon be telling monsters that explode with earpalm raincoats were used.

Would us over the PA system to get up and busting vigour in the sky way above that the scripture on the calendar, sweep the street in front of our house the village. More church bells.

2 Thessalonians 3:16, generated an because this happens each Sunday I find out later that this is the equally animated discussion! morning. official closing day of the village fiesta We’ve had a good time connecting But the announcement isn’t which I thought ended the week with our Zapotec friends after having usually accompanied by music and before. been away for several months. Two of ringing church bells, nor is it given I’m still loathe to get up because them have given input on two literacy until after 5 a.m. It’s not Mother’s Day it’s cold up here in the mountains booklets we hope to publish in the this time of year. Then I hear New Year and are also reading the it—the town crier shouting in first eight chapters of Romans with Zapotec that we are to sweep in me. the streets.

The translator of the Yareni Many things have changed in Zapotec New Testament and I are the village over the years, but the going over the consultant’s comments town crier telling us to get up and on that book. It’s taking a lot longer sweep continues. than I expected. One can’t translate Soon the PA clicks on again or revise a book like Romans in a and we’re also told in Spanish to hurry. get up and sweep. Just in case we And now I’d better get out there haven’t heard, I guess. and tend to the dirt and other debris Joan and I are in the village in the street. to sell calendars, as we do each Grace Thiessen year at this time. We’ve found calendars to be a good way to get Grace Thiessen (Steinbach EMC) written Zapotec into the hands of is involved in Bible translation and A neighbour reads the calendar to his daughters. the people. literacy in Oaxaca state, southern Mexico.

Jesuscristu, benne anke Xxanariꞌiha, benneha roseꞌebie riꞌi latsiru. Bixaba satele, kwinaba lee satíaba useꞌebie le xen su lasi lhe anágaba aka lanie iyále lhe.

















PHOTOS: GRACE THIESSEN



18

THE MESSENGER | December 2010



II Tesalonicenses 3:16

with our missionaries

Reaching out in Minga Guazú PARAGUAY We continue to meet people here and there in Minga Guazú, and have a short list of others we should be trying to connect with.

Pray that we would be Spirit-led as we go out and meet with people. If we are faithful to share the good news, He is faithful to bring conviction and saving faith to many.

Our assignment here in Minga Guazú is a daunting one. We sometimes feel discouraged and overwhelmed, but claim the promise of Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Gil continues to be involved in MBN (radio, book store and counselling ministries) where his responsibilities are heavy in the absence of an executive director. We praise the Lord though for filling that position as of January 2011.

Gil is also meeting with the CEMP leadership on a regular basis serving as liaison between the mission and the national churches. Pray for this relationship to be strengthened in mutual trust and respect.

May God enable Gil in his many leadership roles and give him wisdom in prioritizing.

We praise the Lord also for the opportunity to work in partnership with CEMP to plan a month-end weekend-long seminar. Gil and coworkers Travis Zacharias and Joanne Martens have been enjoying teaching the leaders a chronological study of the Bible.

This chance to study and fellowship together is greatly appreciated and it is rewarding to see the leaders excited about what they are learning.

Please pray for families to get re-established in the way of Christ, grow in faith, or make new decisions.

Pray for the many youth who have heard the challenge and need to live sexually pure lives and allow God to fill their emptiness.

Continue to pray for the CEMP churches and their leaders. Pray that efforts that are being made to reach into their communities would be fruitful.

Pray that the relationship between the mission and the national church would grow in unity, mutual trust and respect.

Pray for various important decisions being made in MBN. Pray in a general way for God to be at work in the lives of the people of Minga Guazú, and that we would be

Where’s my purse?

THE PHILIPPINES Earlier in the year our family was on our regular weekend grocery expedition at the nearest mall.

Lisa was pushing her heavily laden cart through the busy store, trying to keep our three-year-old son Malachi occupied.

When I met up with her and tried to figure out what was left to buy, she noticed her purse was missing. Lisa quickly went to the guards and customer service desk to report the theft, and I started texting and calling her cell phone, which was in her bag.

It was especially frustrating for Lisa as her purse and wallet had a lot of sentimental value.

We also started praying that the purse would be returned, and our

Spirit-led as we interact with those around us.

Pray for a stronger faith to believe God for His part in our effort here in Minga Guazú.

Thank you for your ongoing prayers.

Renita Rempel

Renita and Gil Rempel (Ridgewood/ Prairie Grove) serve as church planters.

boys joined in (right near the meat counter).

I didn’t really think the thief would answer Lisa’s phone, but as we were standing at the checkout counter a female voice came on the phone. The older lady apologized profusely in Tagalog for stealing Lisa’s bag, and said she took it because she needed the money.

She said that the bag and wallet were left in a garbage can in the bathroom of Tokyo Tokyo (a fast food restaurant in the mall), and I could go and retrieve it from there.

Accompanied by a guard, I found the bag intact with the wallet inside—of course, missing the cash and cell phone. The crucial ID and other cards were complete, so what an answer to prayer.

God taught our family a lot about prayer on that day.

Carl Loewen Carl and Lisa Loewen (Pleasant Valley) serve with ACTION International.

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

19

with our missionaries

Enock gains confidence at CINAG! NICARAGUA

PHOTO: VIVA

Praise God for the ministry of CINAG (Gethsemane Centre for Children at Risk) in Nicaragua. God is continuing to change this world, one life at a time. An outstanding example is Enock Alexander. He is one of the participants in the junior youth program at CINAG. In July 2010 Enock was chosen

Among the nearly 500 attendees were pastors, Today, as a young teenager, police department officials, Enock is an excellent student and government and private agencies that specialize in could confidently speak to around children and youth at risk.

500 people and make an impact.

National leaders specializing in these dynamics spoke in the plenary sessions.

Since this was a congress about to around 500 people and make an children a panel of four (three girls impact. To God be the glory! and Enock) were chosen to particiLester Olfert pate. Each was assigned to address a particular topic relating to the theme Lester Olfert (EFC Steinbach) serves of abuse, neglect and exploitation. part-time with Action International in The panel took place the last day of Nicaragua. This article draws, in part, the congress. from a newspaper article in Nicaragua After the address of the panel(author unknown), with input from ists there was Elizabeth Vado, CINAG director. opportunity for public dialogue.

Guadalajara, Mexico The participants

were so amazed at the eloquence with which they spoke and the humility of their answers that they gave them a standing ovation for representing children in such an Enock Alexander spoke at the Congress for Pastoral Care of Children in July 2010. He sat on a panel with three other participants. honourable way.

Immediately to be a speaker at the first Congress following the session radio and TV for Pastoral Care of Children held in reporters swarmed around Enock Hotel Inter of Metrocentro. Enock and the girls for personal interviews. was chosen by VIVA (an internationWhen Enock started attending al Christian charity ministering to the Life Skills program at CINAG children at risk) to speak on a panel a couple of years ago he was a very with three other participants. timid, insecure boy coming from a He had been chosen for his outpoor, rural home. He had been put standing participation in a previous down and frequently the object of VIVA workshop. ridicule.

The objective of the Congress was At CINAG he was given personal to present the problems of abuse, attention, and shown unconditional neglect and exploitation facing love. He was taught self-esteem as many children and to challenge the one created by God. He began to communities of faith to promote and gain confidence so that today, as a work together for the honourable young teenager, he is an excellent treatment of children. student and could confidently speak 20

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

Prayer Team

Dates: February 8–14, 2011 Team Size: six to seven people Team Leader: Flo Friesen Prayer is vital as the EMC begins ministry in Guadalajara. We encourage each of you to pray in your homes for this city and for John and Connie Reimer, who are leading the Guadalajara ministry.

A Prayer Team will be visiting strategic locations in Guadalajara, praying specifically for the people of this city. If you have a burden to be part of a prayer team, we ask that you consider this self-supporting opportunity.

For more information, contact Ken Zacharias, EMC Foreign Secretary, kzacharias@emconf.ca or 204-326-6401.

with our missionaries

JUAREZ, MEXICO The young man’s tone is soft but adamant.

“The revival has to start in our church,” says Paco Rodriguez (not his real name), a pastor in an EMC-affiliated church in Juarez.

“We have to be passionate about our faith—and the Word will spread.”

He, with his senior pastor and members in the Hispanic congregation, has prayed mightily for the Gospel of Jesus Christ to penetrate the Mexican border city that has a population of 1.5 million.

Their prayers have increased in fervency as the streets have become more dangerous due to the drug war, the kidnappings and ransom notes have begun to affect members of the church and increasingly more young people are enticed to work with the drug lords in exchange for a hefty amount of U.S. currency.

It is time for deliberate strategy—to get all church members on board with prayer and fasting, to convince them that the victory against the enemy is only possible through the mighty power of God. Juarez residents have stopped walking the streets at night, and feel almost paralyzed by fear as they hear of yet another account of a drive-by shooting to boost the number of brutal deaths that already stands at 2,700 this year.

“We have to reach the young people before they get sucked into a bad way of life,” says Rodriguez, occasionally using a Spanish-English

dictionary to find an appropriate English word.

No one is more aware of what living under the thumb of a drug lord is like than Paco since he and almost his entire family were involved, and he frankly admits that the “dirty money” at one point catapulted them out of severe poverty.

He is eternally grateful that God protected them in those days— looking back he recognizes God’s presence with them even before they recognized Him as Lord—and today most of his immediate family are living the Christian life.

It all began when he was 10; he remembers someone approaching a family member with an offer of money to start working for a drug lord. By the time he was 13, the entire family was working in the business. They were living well and their bank account was growing.

Then trouble hit in 1999 when most of the family members were arrested. That was a turning point.

After spending a large amount of money in lawyer fees to get

his grandmother out of prison, Rodriguez was willing to listen to a friend who had been talking about Jesus and what it would mean to turn his life over to another master.

In 2004, he accepted Jesus as Lord of his life and his whole life “became new.” Today he is a role model and mentor for youth at the church, plays bass guitar in a worship band that has plans for cutting a CD, and is preaching for the first time next week.

More and more he is convinced that Jesus is the answer to the problems so widespread in the city he calls home—and with that comes the knowledge that God wants to use him and his church to begin the change.

Doris Penner Doris Penner (Heartland) is hostess at the EMC guesthouse in El Paso, Texas.

Paco has prayed mightily for the Gospel of Jesus Christ to penetrate the Mexican border city that has a population of 1.5 million.

PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Youth pastor calls on God to fight fear, drug issues

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

21

with our churches

T

he Sunday morning services this summer at Riverton Gospel Chapel explored the parables of Jesus Christ.

The parables included spoke of principles for successful living: faithfulness (the parable of the talents), forgiveness (the unmerciful servant), righteousness (the two sons), kindness (the Good Samaritan), and preparedness (the great banquet).

Compassion was covered by a report from Haiti. Ben Pudwell became involved with missions in Haiti in the 1970s. He is involved in drilling wells, and is training others to do the work.

Ben Pudwell told us the world is waiting to be identified, to belong, and to be cared for.

Believing that missions needs to be long-term and living to make a difference, his focus is on holistic ministry.

We were made aware of the needs there through a photo presentation of the country, the people, and improvements being made in health care.

Ben has been involved as a surgical technician—delivering babies and stitching wounds. He told us the world is waiting to be identified, to belong, and to be cared for.

His motto: “Don’t quit. Do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Show compassion—share Jesus.”

Darren and Pearl Plett from Pleasant Valley EMC joined us for our church retreat September 10-12 at Beaver Creek Bible Camp.

22

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

We appreciated Darren’s ability to develop the theme Building Community using Romans 12:4–5 as key verses: “Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

Carol Kornelsen

Speaker Darren Plett

Jeremy Hiebert was baptized and accepted into membership on September 12, 2010.

Skits were also a part of the church retreat.

Bruce and Tracy get married!

PELLY FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL, Saskatchewan

PHOTO COURTESY VIVIAN ANFINSON

RIVERTON GOSPEL CHAPEL, Manitoba

PHOTOS: CAROL KORNELSEN

RGC works to build community

S

unday afternoon October 10, 2010, was a joyous occasion when Bruce Hamm and Tracy Hargraves were united in the bond of marriage.

The ceremony was held in the Pelly Fellowship Chapel with Pastor John Froese officiating. Bruce is the eldest son of Eldred and Helen Hamm of Arran, Sask. Bruce and Tracy make their home in Calgary, Alta.

Vivian Anfinson

Bruce Hamm and Tracy Hargraves exchanged wedding vows.

with our churches

HEARTLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH, Landmark, Manitoba

M

and only read the Bible or prayed when she needed something from the Lord. This past year, however, the Lord had been convicting her to surrender her will to his.

She battled with the Lord all year until she finally realized that she wanted what He wanted. After this, Danielle attended a Bible school in Texas for a year and came back more in love with Jesus. Danielle quoted Galatians 2:20.

atthew 3:15-17 set the theme for this special baptismal service on November 21. “But Jesus said, ‘It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.’ So John agreed to baptize him. After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy’” (NLT).

Our guest speaker, Pastor Ed Peters from the EF Church in Steinbach and the uncle to two of our baptismal candidates (Steve Andres and Nicole Andres), spent a number of nights instructing the youth at Heartland.

After the classes were Danielle Unger, Brady Plett, Nicole Andres, Steven Andres completed, Danielle Unger chose the pouring mode of baptism, Brady said he grew up in a and Ed Peters talked about this type Christian home and credits his famas a visual symbol of the Holy Spirit ily and friends for helping him grow descending upon the believer as He spiritually. He attended Red Rock does at the time of salvation.

Bible Camp and Youth Group and Brady Plett, Steven Andres, and was especially moved when his youth Nicole Andres all chose the icy group went to Winnipeg to hand out waters of immersion. This identified bag lunches to those at a homeless them with Jesus, their own deathshelter. to-self, and their rise to new life in He also shared that the mission Christ. trip with Prairie Rose Youth Team Danielle shared that most of her this past year was a highlight for life she just acted like a Christian, him. Brady wished his grandfathers (Edwin Friesen and Peter E. Plett) could be here today, Nicole said, “I realized that there was but he knew that they were watching and cheering a God out there who was huge and from heaven. powerful...and totally worth living for.”

Nicole grew up in a Christian home, but during

this past year, she has taken her faith in Jesus more seriously. She said that while trying to fit into the world she lacked confidence, joy, peace, and hope and wasn’t sure what her purpose in life was.

In her search for God, she started going for walks at night and observed the wonders of creation.

Nicole said, “I realized that there was a God out there who was huge and powerful; bigger than I ever knew, and totally worth living for.” She now knows that God has created her as unique as each star and that she is a part of His story.

Steven shared that he always called himself a Christian, but knew in his heart that it wasn’t true.

He lacked fulfillment in life. He tried to fulfill this void outside of Christ, but in grade 10, Steven began reconnecting with some old friends from church.

During that year, a Bible study started among his friends and he started to grow spiritually. Steven credits his best friend Katherine with helping him in many different situations using wisdom and faith on her part.

During the summer, after grade 11, God called Steven to camp.

Though he went kicking and screaming the whole way, it was here that Steven learned to listen and trust God in every situation.

The testimony of these four witnesses to the Grace of God is truly powerful.

Our service ended with a beautiful and powerful song called You won’t relent, sung by Priscilla Keating and Chris Plett. It is about a passionate God who pursues us with a love that is stronger than death.

Brigitte Toews PHOTO: BRIGITTE TOEWS

Heartland holds baptism

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

23

with our churches

HEARTLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH, Landmark, Manitoba

keep in touch over the year.

The teaching we s Landmark churches venture to do through the VBS teach DVBS, we are affected by classes is important past history. because we are dealing On the one hand, we bring a with impressionable message of hope for them, a message lives. If kids grasp the that tells them to give their lives over message of the gospel to Jesus Christ, which will give them at a young age before a purpose in life and a hope for the they get involved in future, but on the other hand they alcohol and gambling, Gloria James spends some quiet moments with a student. view us with suspicion. there is a bigger moment—kids love coming and That’s why actually going to the chance they will be motivated to live surely retain something from the community and interacting with the a life of faith. songs, the stories and drama. people is so important—we need to This last summer we had a team But just as important is the be their friends, to care about them, of 15 people from a cross-section of relationship-building that goes on, to become involved in their lives, ages from three Landmark churches sometimes as we take a child out for so they can see our sincerity and spending the last week of July in some “time-out” because he or she is compassion and regain trust which Grand Rapids, Man. disruptive, or helping a child with a paves the way for them to believe in We had permission to use the craft or sharing a cookie and drink the Jesus we teach and preach. school, which was ideal since it The one week we spend there allowed us to use separate classrooms during snack time.

Our team also had the opporeach summer is far too short, but for story time and crafts, and the tunity to meet with people in the hopefully we leave a bit of this gym for games on the days when it community in other ways. Some of us behind. And it is good when VBS was wet. attended the pow-wow which went workers return for a few summers to While a lot of crowd control is on almost all week, we talked with renew relationships and perhaps even necessary—there’s never a quiet people in their backyards, some of the younger members of the team went swimming with the kids, and we organized a youth night of games and sharing.

A VBS team coming from the south can be a huge support to Fred and Stella Neff, pastoral couple at Grand Rapids. They enjoy the fellowMay 20-23, 2011 • Caronport, SK ship and get a sense that someone for more info check us out at www.abundantsprings.ca cares for them and their ministry.

We need to continue to pray for them and their work, which often seems an uphill battle, and pray that God’s Word that was sown this summer will take root and bear much An EMC youth conference fruit.

Doris Penner

A

NOT us...

Abundant Springs 2011

24

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

PHOTO: CONNIE PLETT

Teaching VBS in Grand Rapids is important!

with our churches

OBBC is five years old!

OAK BLUFF BIBLE CHURCH, Manitoba

I

It has also been encouraging to work together with other churches and share resources, cutting costs and being able to recycle material.

Summer also brought opportu-

Our annual Fishing Derby is a fun family event.

Operation Christmas Child is a community effort each November as we are challenged to put together more boxes than the year before.

Christmas programs have been a highlight for our community as we present the celebration of Christ’s birth in song and drama. This year we will be presenting a New Old-Fashioned Christmas on Dec. 19, 2010, at 7 p.m. We invite you to join us.

This October we celebrated our fifth anniversary and it is only by God’s hand that we are here.

Many years ago we decided, as a church planting team studying Henry Blackaby’s Experiencing God, that we would join God at His work.

We have spent the last years finding out what God was doing in Oak Bluff and how much is yet left to do. We appreciate your prayers as we seek the Lord’s guidance in making a difference in our corner of the world.

Check out our website at oakbluffbiblechurch.com.

Val Wolowich

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

PHOTOS COURTESY VAL WOLOWICH

t’s hard to believe but Oak Bluff Bible Church is already five years old.

It is a church that was planted by members of Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, in addition to two couples from other churches in Winnipeg, who resided in Oak Bluff; it has established itself in this small town just southwest of Winnipeg.

Planted in a rather unconventional way, this church is meeting needs Love Oak Bluff has been a seasonal outreach for the church. in a community where no church existed. We meet in the Oak nity to reach out to our community Bluff Community School during the with our annual Community Picnic, winter season and the Recreation where we enjoyed an outdoor service, Hall during the summer months. fabulous lunch, family games, dunk What have we been up to? tank and bouncers. This is always Regular services are held each a wonderful opportunity to invite Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. Coffee neighbors and friends. is on at 10 a.m. Worshipping our Love Oak Bluff has also been a Lord through music and messages by seasonal outreach as we join together Troy Selley, we have grown together to clean up the school yard and local as a congregation. Sunday School, for parks with garden shears and rakes our energetic children, is held during in hand. Plates of goodies are also part of the service. delivered to local businesses.

As the spark of this church was ignited by RFC’s Daily Vacation Bible School being held past summers in the OB Recreation Hall, we have continued to present a vibrant VBS each August—something all community children look forward to.

It has been so exciting to hear from parents in the community that this event has made such a difference in their child’s life. This August we had an awesome time of discovering Jesus’ miraculous power at Power Lab and ended off with a family barbeque and an incredible fireworks Chiristmas programs have been a highlight for the community. display.

25

with our churches

STEINBACH EMC, Manitoba

Adam Friesen was part of a threeweek training program at Roseau ou are the light of the world” River. He shares: “Camp was full of (Matthew 5:14). Light is not challenges and spiritual problems, something that the Christian is but there were also rewarding times, expected to become; we are lights. like the evening talks with campers Many people from our church who were starting to think about were involved in a variety of miniswhat was being taught.” tries this past summer where they Trev Esau spent a week at Eagle had opportunities to let their lights Lake, where he was speaker for the shine: at home, Bible camps, Tadoule teens’ week. At first the teens weren’t Lake, Chicago. sure about the Dr. Seuss stories, but in the end they loved hearing a story every morning.

The evening messages were based on “God is Light.”

Trev used many types of lights to illustrate this.

Markus Goertzen was a light at Red Rock. Highlights for him were counseling, teaching and building relationships in the CIT program, as well as the leadChildren made snakes from old neck ties during VBS. This ership role and responsibility was done in relation to the story of Paul being shipwrecked and picking up a snake. he was given on the worship team.

At Home: You could almost Melissa Peters served at Pioneer hear the ocean as you entered our Camp. She writes: “One of my fachurch during our VBS week. With vourite parts of camp was the canoe the sanctuary decked in “shipply” trip. It challenged and pushed me splendour, waves of kids entered, both physically and mentally. I also excited to begin their journey on our High Seas Expedition.

The shipmates were kept busy leading the 170 kids through the different stations as they learned how God’s Word is “true, surprising, comforting, life changing, and for everyone.” We praise the Lord for five kids who made commitments to the Lord!

At Camp: Many of our young people (and some older ones as well) shared the light at Bible camps. I asked a few to mention some of their highlights:

PHOTO COURTESY ANNA PLETT

“Y

enjoyed bonding with all my cabin mates throughout the month.”

Up North: Albert and Edna Martens, Rick Bettig and Diane Reimer spread some light at Tadoule Lake in northern Manitoba.

Activities included a tea party for the women, a men’s breakfast and a kids program. They praise God for one woman who invited Christ into her life!

In Chicago: Eleven youth and three youth leaders left for Chicago on July 31 on a nine-day missions trip with DOOR network. They served in many different ways: food banks, soup kitchens, VBS, urban gardens.

They had the unexpected privilege of sharing the light with people from another group who worked alongside them.

Jason Heide, our youth pastor, comments: “Our group worked very diligently and efficiently, and I was incredibly impressed with the unity we experienced. It was an excellent opportunity to see God work in and around us.”

Thank you to those who contributed to this report.

“Take your candle. Go light your world.”

Martha Kroeker

SEMC youth served in Chicago on a summer missions trip.

26

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

PHOTO COURTESY JASON HEIDE

Let your lights shine

with our churches

Truly we are one body!

FISH CREEK CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, Calgary, Alberta

S

PHOTOS COURTESY SCOTT KOOP

ince the beginning of September, Pastor Scott Koop has been speaking to us from the book of Galatians. On Sunday, October 3, we were blessed to once again have Iglesia Emmanuel together with us in a joint worship service.

We were led by a wonderful worship team from Iglesia Cristiana Emmanuel, and Pastor Scott brought a message (with translation by ICE Pastor Antonio Pitta) from Galatians 3:26-29.

The passage says, “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God

through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (NIV).

From this passage we were reminded that what unites us together in Christ is much stronger than what threatens to divide us. Here we see that what binds us together is greater than any cultural or economic differences we may sometimes focus on.

We are truly one in the body of Christ, and our desire is to go

beyond just understanding that as a theological idea, to allowing it to impact our daily lives.

The joint service and potluck afterward were a wonderful way of practicing our unity beyond our own congregation. What other ways can we live out this theological truth?

At Fish Creek we feel blessed to exist as a faith community connected to a larger family of churches in the EMC. Pray for us when you think of us, that we might grow in love and unity; and that we might find new ways to serve, working together with our brothers and sisters at Iglesia Cristiana Emmanuel, the larger conference of which we are a part.

Scott Koop

Fish Creek and Emmanuel held a joint service October 3.

Two members at Braeside BRAESIDE EMC, Winnipeg, Manitoba

P

PHOTO: AL DUECK

astors Kim Stoesz and Angel Infantes stand beside Nellie Orellana and Jose Arroyo who shared their faith journey and were accepted as members of Braeside through transfer on October 10, 2010.

Al Dueck

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

27

pictures of God

by Joanna Plett

Birth and rebirth

W

PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

hat does Christmas mean Although I myself was taken God with none of my own good to me this year? aback by the sudden awakening, I deeds to cover me.

Mostly it is the eccould see that it was God who picked In exposing my shame, I disstatic joy of new hope and new life. me up out of the water. covered grace in a way I had never If I have learned one thing this But as I began the giddy and received it before. In losing my year, it is that you do not appreciate painful experience of reawakening— moral safety net, I started into a the light until you have walked in of resuscitation—I saw God in more faith built on relationship. the fog of confusion; As I began to you do not appreciate return to the past to life until you have felt find healing, I was like you have died amazed over and inside; and you do over at God’s relentnot appreciate grace less pursuit of me until you have been and His systematic won back from a place plan for my healing where even you have and wholeness. given up on yourself.

As I revisited This year, I met a hurts and events God who pursues me from my years under relentlessly and who water, God consisworks to bring me to tently set up situalife and healing. The tions, conversations, first few months of prayers or other 2010 were very difficult random events or and dark times for me, comments to give me both academically and the message I needed Although I myself was taken aback personally. I had been in to move me forward. survival mode for so long, Preparing for by the sudden awakening, I could I wasn’t sure if any other Christmas 2010, I am still life existed. on this journey towards see that it was God who picked me In April, shortly after healing, reawakening, up out of the water. finishing my last exams rebirth. The hope of and assignments, I felt Christmas this year is the as if my head suddenly collision of life and death. broke the surface, as if I had been places, not only in the light and life, I am more aware than ever of my underwater for a long time. I felt but also in the darkness. I saw him own sinfulness, less certain than like I could breathe again, could see allowing my faith to die—my faith ever of what I “should” do, but more again, and could hear again. in my own goodness and abilities to at peace than ever in the painful Over the next few months I save me. and purposeful direction of the God rediscovered a person I had thought The gods that I had held onto as who relentlessly breaks us down to was long dead and revisited hopes my assurance of salvation—missions relentlessly bring us to life. and dreams I had long since given and morality—were stripped away, up on. leaving me naked in my sin before

28

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

stewardship today

by Arnie Friesen

Thy will be done

P

reparing your personal will in light of The Lord’s Prayer makes a lot of sense if you seek to do God’s will on earth as it is done in heaven.

As Christians, we acknowledge that we don’t really own anything; we are simply managers of the resources God has entrusted to us. We should take utmost care to invest in Kingdom initiatives while we are alive.

Furthermore, how we distribute our resources after we die should also reflect the will of God. Completing a will increases the possibility that more will be left to distribute for charitable

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

As Christians, we acknowledge that we don’t really own anything; we are simply managers of the resources God has entrusted to us.

purposes and less will be used up by the courts.

Our families are also entrusted to us by God. We should seek God’s will when providing for our children; especially if we were to die before they are able to take care of themselves.

This includes selecting guardians who share our faith and value system.

But we might want to consider whether it is appropriate to leave our entire estate to our children.

Warren Buffet, a multi-billionaire, once commented, “I want to give my kids just enough so that they would feel that they could do anything, but not so much that they would feel like doing nothing.”

Dying without a will simply means that your provincial government will decide how your assets are divided. Chances are this will not be according to your wishes, and maybe not God’s either for that matter.

Nearly fifty per cent of Canadian adults do not have a will. If you find yourself in this group, your resistance probably stems from one of these excuses: • Wills cost too much—ask about the will rebate offered

by Mennonite Foundation in connection with free will counseling services.

• Not enough assets to really matter.

• Planning to do a hand-written will or use a “will kit.”

• Don’t expect to die anytime soon.

• Superstition—fear you will die sooner if you have a will.

If one of these excuses is yours, please contact a Mennonite Foundation consultant to discuss your concerns. Don’t procrastinate!

If you already have a will, you are to be commended. But keep in mind that a will should be reviewed periodically, especially if there are changes in your family such as births, deaths, retirement or changes in financial status.

Other reasons for revisiting a will include: your executor or guardian has moved or passed away, you marry or re-marry, or you have moved to another province.

Doing the will of God quite plainly means teaming up in doing what matters to God. Completing an estate plan is really doing “God’s will.”

Arnie Friesen is a stewardship consultant at the Abbotsford, B.C., office of Mennonite Foundation of Canada.

For stewardship education and estate and charitable gift planning contact your nearest MFC office or visit MennoFoundation.ca.

Holiday Travel

kirsten@holiday-travel.ca with the

Bicentennial Committee of the

Evangelical Mennonite Conference presents

Mennonite Heritage Tour with a focus on EMC history to

Ukraine and Crimea

Kiev, Mennonite Colonies, Yalta, Odessa from

May 21-June 7, 2012

Estimated cost: $5,200 including airfare

Deadline registration/deposit December 30, 2011 For tour details contact tour host:

Len Loeppky

14 Springwood Bay, Steinbach, MB, R5G 2E8 aloeppky@mts.net or 204-326-2613

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

29

news

Continental Mission appoints new interim board STEINBACH, Man.—In late October representatives from the Tri-Conference (EMMC, CMC, EMC) traveled together to Thompson, Man., to meet with the staff of Continental Mission and to witness firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing the organization.

In addition to the leaders of the Conferences, three new board members, one appointed from each Conference, were also on hand for the visit.

The first stop was Midway Bible Camp, where each summer children from northern Manitoba have the opportunity to experience the love of Christ in a caring environment. Many kids point back to the camping experience at Midway as a pivotal time in their lives.

The group interacted with the Continental missionaries, who had many questions about the transition happening in the organization. One special moment was when Zach Beardy received recognition for his outreach ministry in the soup kitchen, which is no longer operating as Zach has retired.

Later in the day, the official transition from the outgoing board (represented by Ruben Goertzen) to the new board was made official. The new board met

to organize themselves and to discuss the immediate needs of Continental.

Please pray for the new board members—Gerald Barkman, Leonard Hiebert, Bruce Penner and Mel Friesen— as they seek to provide direction and guidance to the ministry of Continental Mission.

Tim Dyck

The transition from the outgoing board to the new board is made official.

in memory

Abraham (Abe) Brandt 1934–2010 On Monday, October 11, 2010, at the age of 76, Abe Brandt of Riverton (Mennville), Man., breached his last, being relieved of his suffering.

He died peacefully at the Teulon Hunter Memorial Hospital surrounded by his wife and 11 children.

30

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

He was born on September 8, 1934, to George W. and Elizabeth Brandt in Hanover, Man., and was raised in that area. He proclaimed his faith in Jesus Christ when he was baptized at age 18 and went on to walk with God and be a spiritual inspiration to his family.

He spent years as a hog farmer and loved doing carpentry and other creative projects in his workshop. Through the years he suffered from various illnesses, such as depression, hearing loss, diabetes, and the heart failure that led to his death.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Annie (nee Barkman); and their children, Larry, Laureen Friesen, Stanley, Delbert, Gerald, Anita Friesen, Elaine Neufeld, Julia, Sandra Grafe, Robert, and Theresa; their spouses; 30 grandchildren and their spouses; and four great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his two brothers, David and Arnold, and their wives; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law.

He was predeceased by his parents, five brothers, two sisters, granddaughter Katelyn, and several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

A memorial service was held at Birchwood Funeral Home in Steinbach, Man., on October 14, 2010, at 7 p.m.

The funeral service was held at Mennville EM Church, Riverton, Man., on October 15 at 2 p.m. Officiating were pastors Barry Barkman, Dwight Plett, and Vic Neufeld.

The pallbearers were Abe’s family.

Interment was in the Mennville EMC cemetery. Donations were welcomed in his memory for the EMC missions program.

“For me to live is Christ, to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).

His Family

shoulder tapping Pastoral positions Community Bible Fellowship Church of Swan River, Man., is currently seeking a pastoral couple on either an interim basis (with negotiable hours) or, depending on circumstances, a fulltime, permanent basis to serve a congregation of about 75 on a Sunday morning in a community of about 3,500.

Responsibilities could include preaching, counseling, participation in team ministries, visitation, evangelistic outreach to community, direction setting in conjunction with Elder Team.

Our desire: a couple with passion for the Lord and his work, a desire to explore God’s unlimited potential through CBF, and administrative skills.

CFB oversees a small Christian school (about 35 students) on the premises. Our previous pastor was involved in the lives of students and staff, and we really appreciated his daily school involvement.

If you have an appetite for the outdoors and a longing to serve in a smaller community, we are a friendly community with much potential for church growth. We are ultimately looking for a permanent pastor. Open communication will be encouraged from an applicant to ensure intentions and expectations are clearly understood.

Please contact: Terry Scales (204-525-2651), Jake Reimer (204-734-4465), or Don Buhler (204-734-2403).

Fort Garry Evangelical Mennonite Church (fortgarryemc.ca) is searching for a university/ young adult pastor whom God has chosen to help us reach University of Manitoba students and young adults with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

We are a congregation of 250 located a block from the U. of M. Fort Garry campus.

Supported by a committed discernment group, this person will get to know the Fort Garry campus and establish relationships with present campus ministries. By creating relationships with individuals, the pastor will support the development of their faith by connecting them to people at FGEMC. A second phase may include program development.

Applicants must be able to embrace and sign the FGEMC Statement of Faith.

Qualifications include a love for people, enthusiasm and determination, creativity and an ability to work independently. A graduate degree and ministry experience on campus are assets.

Inquiries and resumes may be sent to Mark Plett, Search Committee chair, Fort Garry EMC, 602

2011 EMC Convention

Mission in the Mold of the Master July 1–3, 2011 Calgary, Alberta

Pasadena Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2S9 or e-mailed msplett5@shaw.ca.

High Level Christian Fellowship is searching for a full-time pastor. We are a congregation of approximately 150 people located in northern Alberta. For more information contact: Pete Fehr at 780-926-6671 or email at pete@gbc2002ltd. net.

Youth work Rosenort Fellowship Chapel is seeking to fill a full-time position of youth pastor. We are a congregation of approximately 150 attendees located in Rosenort, Man. The position would require successful applicant to lead both senior and junior youth programs. We would like to see some youth involvement in morning services with possible pulpit opportunities. A recently remodeled youth room in the church is used for their weekly event.

We are looking for a person/couple with a passion for God’s word and a heart for our youth.

They are to be approachable, accountable, supportive, missional to create real relationships with the youth and disciple them. Starting date is negotiable. If interested please contact Ryan Friesen at 204-746-6345 or ryan@gninc.ca.

Rosenort EMC has a full-time youth pastor position to begin immediately. REMC is a rural church of approximately 300 members with regular attendance of 250 people. Rosenort is situated in southern Manitoba with agribusiness as the main industry. Our church is a multi-generational church with strong family ties.

We are looking for a youth pastor to work with both junior youth (Grades 7–9) and senior youth (Grades 10–12). The successful candidate must have a deep desire to encourage our youth to grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus Christ; be committed to developing a mission vision within our youth; provide opportunity for leadership development for our youth; select, train, and work with youth sponsors from within the church family.

To submit a letter of application or request information, contact Arlin Scharfenberg, ascharfenberg@xplornet.ca, 204-746-6154, Box 106, RR 1, Morris, MB R0G 1K0.

Crestview Fellowship is a small EMC church on the west side of Winnipeg, Man., that is actively seeking out a half-time youth position.

Crestview is about 65-70 people with a small number of youth aged kids, but many younger children coming up. Our focus has also been to the community surrounding the church.

The successful applicant will be an actively growing follower of Christ who lives out their faith in action and word, possesses a servant heart for youth ministry, and is passionate about reaching young people in the church and surrounding community for Christ. Please contact the church office at 204-837-9490, cfcemc@mts. net, or 271 Hamilton Ave. Winnipeg, MB R2Y 0H3.

The Bridge Drop-In (Arborg Youth for Christ) is seeking a full-time program coordinator to

help launch and run a youth centre in Arborg, Man. This exciting opportunity is revving up and will soon be ready to go with a committed team there to support and back you up!

Reporting to the Director and supported by a committed steering committee, this person will promote the ministry throughout the community, develop the drop-in program and supervise team members.

Applicants must be able to embrace and sign the YFC Statement of Faith and Conduct.

Qualifications include a love for youth, drive and determination, creativity and an ability to work independently.

Email resume to Carissa Rempel at director.arborgyfc@hotmail.ca; Arborg Youth For Christ, Box 621, Arborg, MB R0C 0A0; or call 204-376-5686.

Other opportunities Inner City Youth Alive, a faith-based organization located in Winnipeg’s North End, is in urgent need of a full-time accountant. Position available immediately. Non-profit experience and/or accounting degree preferred. Involves financial management of all resources, expenses and payroll. For information, contact Lauren at 204582-8779 or see www.icya.ca/about/job.html.

Email resumes to info@icya.ca.

Mennonite Foundation of Canada has an opening in its Calgary office for a administrative assistant as a maternity leave replacement from December 15, 2010 to December 31, 2011.

This person will be responsible for telephone reception, processing incoming and outgoing mail, setting up appointments, word processing, data entry and various other duties. Experience in a computerized office environment, specifically using MS Office software with proficiency in Word, PowerPoint and Excel is desired. Applicants should enjoy interacting with the public and possess strong interpersonal and telephone skills.

All MFC support staff are required to be members of a local Anabaptist church.

MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Interested persons should send their resume to Mennonite Foundation of Canada, Attn: Gary Sawatzky, 220‐2946 32nd Street NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 6J7; Email: gsawatzky@mennofoundation.ca; 403-717‐0331 or 877‐717‐0708; Mennofoundation.ca.

The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards and ministries; inter-Mennonite agencies and educational institutions; and the wider church. Ads are not to be for monetary benefit.

To place an ad, e-mail messenger@ emconf.ca or call 204-326-6401 and ask for Rebecca Roman.

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

31

THE

MESSENGER 2010 index ARCHIVES ALCOVE

Silenced within the snows of Siberia April When Anabaptists confiscated Menno Simons’ writings May WGM: a great, imperfect movement June War: when leaders scramble to respond July 1937: when Bible colleges were dangerous Sept.

From Wales to the EMC Oct. Susanne K. Plett, a missions pioneer Nov. Colonization evangelism, an oxymoron?

Dec.

A READER’S VIEWPOINT

Beyond Us and Them, John Schlamp Who cares about academic freedom?

Al Hiebert The Temple: God’s presence on earth, Glen Koop Fuel on the fire? I don’t think so! Allan G. Lie

ARTICLES

Mar. 17 April June Aug.

A hope that lives on, Arden Thiessen Jan. 6 Jesus matters! Dr. David W. Shenk Jan. 20 Mennonites agonize over Bolivian rape victims Jan. 20 Breaking Free: From caregiver to equipper, Dr. Greg Ogden Feb. 3 The Journey to the Cross, Jacob Enns March 17 The Word in worship: using the Bible in our services, Dr. Christine Longhurst April Moving toward joy, Brigitte (Bouvier) Toews April Examining covenant community biblically, George Toews May The historical trail of the EMC membership idea, Dr. Arden Thiessen May A few thoughts on why I love my church, Jocelyn R. Plett May Hockey Night in Afghanistan, Dr. Arley Loewen June Kornelius Isaak and the Moro spear, Harry Loewen and others June The Muslim Mosaic, Dr. Arley Loewen July Disaster leaders ‘see the oil,’ Anna Groff July Say a prayer for the peace of Israel, Irma Janzen July An Open Door that None Can Shut, Dr. David W. Shenk Aug. Must we knock down other people’s candles?

Dr. Ron Sider Aug. Lutherans and Anabaptists reconcile in service of repentance and forgiveness, Byron Rempel-Burkholder Aug. The Father Heart of God, Flo Friesen Sept.

In Another Land Sept.

Bearing the Cross, Linda Gehman Peachey Sept.

Susanna Dueck’s Story of Survival, Elma Brandt Oct. 32

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

Expressing Gratitute to Two Church Leaders, Terry M. Smith Oct. Mad Woman and a Miracle, Kirsten Penner Krymusa Oct. The Faith of the Criminal on the Cross, Menno Simons Oct. The Lamb is Worthy to Take the Book!

Dr. David W. Shenk Nov. Clothed and In Our Right Minds, Dr. Terry Hiebert Nov. Iglesia Cristiana Ebenezer Donda la Alabanza y la Hermandad de la Iglesia son vitals, Terry Smith y Gerald Reimer Nov. Iglesia Cristiana Ebenezer: Where Praise and Church Family are Vital! Terry Smith and Gerald Reimer Nov. Waiting for the Promise, Rebecca Roman Dec. The First Priority: The Gospel to All Nations, Dr. David W. Shenk Dec. The ConneXion: Connecting with God and each other, Terry Smith Dec.

BIRTHS

Jan. 6, Feb. 3, April, May, Sept., Oct., Nov.

CHURCH NEWS

Anola May Blumenort Feb. 3, June Braeside Aug., Sept., Dec. Church of Living Water Jan. 20 Crestview Sept.

EFC Steinbach June Emmanuel Nov. Fish Creek Jan. 6, July, Dec. Fort Garry June, July Grace Nov. Heartland Jan. 6, April, May, Aug., Oct., Nov., Dec. Hillside July Hudson Bay May Kleefeld May, Nov. La Crete Aug. Leamington Feb. 3 MacGregor Mar. 17 Many Rooms April, Sept.

Mennville Feb. 3, Sept., Oct.l Mission Heights July Morris Jan. 20, Aug. Morweena Sept., Oct. New Life July Northern Fellowship June Oak Bluff Dec.

Pansy May, Aug. Pelly April, July, Dec. Picture Butte July, Oct. Portage April, May, Nov. Prairie Rose July Reserve Fellowship Nov. Riverton Feb. 3, June, Oct., Dec. Roseisle April, Sept.

Rosenort EMC Jan. 20 Rosenort Fellowship July Steinbach EMC Jan. 6, April, Sept., Dec. Straffordville May Swan River Jan. 6, Aug., Oct. Taber April, July Vanderhoof May, July, Oct. Wymark Mar. 17, May, Nov.

Wonderful ways of working together The Bishop and The Polyglot Why include Menno’s article?

Nine regions, one Church A bridge, not a barrier The defining person of history and beyond A tough year ends

CHURCH PROFILE

FOCUS ON

Many Rooms (Winnipeg) Ebenezer (Brandon) The ConneXion (Arborg)

April Nov. Dec.

CONVENTION

An Open Door that None Can Shut, Dr. David W. Shenk Aug. Ministerial: Shenk shares MWC’s convictions and on global challenges Aug. Conference Council approves new fields of Bolivia and Jalisco State Aug. Election results Aug. A pause for Paraguay Aug. Convention offerings Aug. Balancing mission and national church relationship, Alvira Friesen Aug. Youth soaked, refreshed at convention August Photos Aug. The Lamb is Worthy to Take the Book!

Dr. David W. Shenk Nov. The First Priority: The Gospel to All Nations, Dr. David W. Shenk Dec.

EDITORIALS

In the year of our Lord 2010 Jan. 6 Carriers of hope and help Jan. 6 Lord of the locked places Jan. 20 Diversity and accountability Jan. 20 Brunk and the dogs Feb. 3 Governor General Michaëlle Jean Feb. 3 Where is my copy of The Messenger?

Mar. 17 How much information do you want?

Mar. 17 Ever considered a lectionary?

April The Messenger goes monthly April Influences and decision-making May EMCers near a mushroom patch May Starts hurt by lack of funds June Planting more and wisely June While the lilies drown July Reading the fine print July The trouble with being politically correct Aug. Washing the feet of a Lutheran bishop Aug. Farmers in Pakistan and Canada Sept.

EMC FAQ

Who is the conference?

EMC, privacy, and me Students, privacy, and the EMC PIPEDA is a reality!

Two classes of missionaries?

Where does the money go?

A financial challenge NIP: a layer of protection for EMC churches

GENERATIONS

Is God testing us?

Kids need true heroes

KIDS’ CORNER

Light, is it important?

Do you ever fly a kite in Spring?

What do you mean to say?

To see is to do What is sand?

No ball? No problem!

Water, water, everywhere!

Be thankful!

The Keeper of the Earth Be a peacemaker!

Sept.

Oct. Oct. Nov. Nov. Dec. Dec.

July August Sept.

Sept.

Oct. Nov.

Mar. 17 June

Mar. 17 May

Jan. 20 March 17 April May June July August Sept.

Oct. Dec.

LETTERS

Responding to hurting Bolivian Mennonites, Darnell Plett Jan. 20 Covenant is seamless, M. J. Moll Jan. 20 Put a smile on the treasurer’s face!

Alice and Linda Doerksen May There was a great deal of engagement with the Scriptures, Val and Erwin Warkentin June ‘Accident or miscalculation or madness,’ Stan Penner July Thanks for the View from the Pew, Eric Isaac Sept.

A message of encouragement! Glen Koop Sept.

Unity a by-product, not a plan, Dale Loewen Oct. Consider The Cape Town Commitment, Al Hiebert Nov.

MISSIONAL AND MULTIPLYING

350,000 types of beetles Jan. 6 Third places June How do you rate on the Welcome Meter? Sept.

MISSIONS

Paraguay: David and Judy Schmidt Mexico: Elma Janzen South Africa: Joe and Olga Reimer

Jan. 6 Jan. 6 Jan. 6 THE MESSENGER | December 2010

33

Sudan: Gordon Skopnik Jan. 20 Tadoule Lake: Edna Martens Jan. 20 Paraguay: Travis and Rosey Zacharias Feb. 3 Oaxaca, Mexico: Grace Thiessen Feb. 3 Nicaragua: Darlene Olfert Mar. 17 Sudan: Sharon Skopnik Mar. 17 Sudan: Rolf Kruse April Canada: Harvey Thiessen April Lesotho: Kari Peters April South Africa: Joe Reimer April Grand Rapids: Manfred Neff April Nicaragua: Jared Schroeder April Wisconsin: Dave and Kim Field May Nicaragua: Zachari Hein May Europe: Lesley and Marianne Fast May BOM project: Chile May Europe: Lesley and Marianne Fast June Papua New Guinea: Tim Schroder June Burkina Faso: Paul Thiessen July South Africa: David Driedger July China: Asia Worker July Paraguay: Travis Zacharias July Bolivia: Verna Doerksen July Canada: Albert Martens July Burkina Faso: Paul Thiessen July Paraguay: Erna Plett Aug. Mexico: Tara Wiebe Aug. EMC Paraguay missionaries available for church reporting Aug. Burkina Faso: Paul Thiessen Sept.

Mexico: Leroy Siemens Sept.

Wisconsin: Kim Field Oct. Paraguay: Renita Rempel Oct. Mexico: Jake and Merna Bartsch Nov. The Philippines: Carl Loewen Nov. Paraguay: Dave Schmidt Nov. Mozambique: Joe Reimer Dec. Mexico: Grace Thiessen Dec. Paraguay: Renita Rempel Dec. The Philippines: Carl Loewen Dec. Nicaragua: Lester Olfert Dec. Juarez, Mexico: Doris Penner Dec.

MODERATOR’S MUSINGS Ready for a change?

NATIONAL

Oct.

Top-notch play marks quarter-century EMCup Jan. 6 Beyond pizza, big challenges Mar. 17 EMC financial update Mar. 17 Quarterly financial report April PB Golf Classic gets rained out July Ministerial: Shenk shares MWC’s convictions and on global challenges Aug. Conference Council approves new fields of Bolivia and Jalisco State Aug. EMC Paraguay missionaries available for church reporting Aug. Election results Aug. TRU assists in building unity Dec. Christmas Greetings Dec. 34

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

NEWS ITEMS

Cut of matching funds concerns church groups Jan. 6 A fine young man Jan. 20 Thrift store sales hit record $5.9M Jan. 20 Taking a sabbatical from homelessness Jan. 20 MCC responding to Haiti earthquake Jan. 20 Feb. 7 lament service for Bolivian victims Jan. 20 MEDA convention explores new frontiers Jan. 20 Friesen newest MFC consultant Jan. 20 Wiebe and Friesen new ROH directors Jan. 20 MEDA software goes bananas Feb. 3 MCC asks for relief kits, comforters, sheets for Haiti Feb. 3 CMU has office of ministry inquiry Feb. 3 Compassion more widespread than violence in Haiti Feb. 3 Seven condemned Anabaptists remembered Feb. 3 Service laments rapes in Bolivia Mar. 17 Beyond pizza, big challenges Mar. 17 Landmines: Calling for bold action from the U.S. in 2010 April Christians in Iraq April Curling event comes down to final shot April Friesens end five years at Pass Christian April Rea challenges students toward justice April Greg Ogden presents a ‘no brainer’ April The Philippines taught ‘many lessons’ April MEDA sees peace dividend in youth program April Turning toward peace to help Afghan children April Lorraine Roth receives MHSC award May 30 graduate at SBC May Providence Theological Seminary grads May Esau tours with Bethany College May Bethany College grads May Low German cookbook affirms women May VMC ordains 26, launches training institute May MDS celebrates 60 years of service May MDS fixes forgotten houses May MCC seeks dialogue with Timber Bay families May Growth at Eden requires more space May Colombian displacement continues May MCC partners injured in attack May Dutch Mennonites voice views on war and peace May Peter J. Dyck leaves legacy of service May

Graduates from Canadian Mennonite University June EFC urges freedom for commissioners June Segue and Winkler Co-op celebrate partnership June MBs and GCs celebrate 150 years June Nasreen is grateful to MEDA June MCC thrift shop meeting focuses on teamwork June MCC Canada receives over $8M for Haiti June A World Glimpse: Uighurs June Lutherans to consider legacy with Anabaptists June Manitoba town welcomes refugees June Palestinian church leaders call for justice June MCC Canada launches mining justice campaign June MCC urges governments to end Gaza blockade June EFC equips youth to tackle euthanasia and assisted suicide June Conference explores the Mennonite story in Siberia June Tasting first fruits in Ukraine July RGBI tour stops in Steinbach July Moving from ‘we’ to ‘where’?

July MCC has a place for everyone July Anabaptists number 1.6 million July ‘Just part of our protocol’ July MDS responds to the Gulf oil spill July Herald Press e-books now available Aug. Reviewers wanted Aug. A faith to die for Aug. MBs in Germany seek reconciliation Aug. ‘Daily Terror’ exhibit raises awareness Aug. Je me souviens…I remember…

Sept.

MCC urges help in a ‘race against time’ in Pakistan Sept.

CFGB is actively responding Sept.

MCC and MEDA collaborate to help Haiti’s homeless Sept.

MB churches taking the ‘AC challenge’ Sept.

Robinson makes an impact at Leaders’ Day Sept.

Not a crime to seek asylum, says MCC Sept.

MDS responds to extreme Canadian weather Sept.

MCC Manitoba addresses questions about MCC’s beliefs Sept.

MCC responds to questions about MCC’s beliefs and activities Sept.

How can Sunday School be strengthened? Sept.

2011, year of celebrations for Dutch Mennonites Sept.

MCC grieves worker killed in Afghanistan Sept.

New MCC website debunks myths

about Indigenous Canadians Sept.

J. Lawrence Burkholder passes away at 92 Sept.

November 14 is International Day of Prayer Sunday` Oct. EFC sends open letter on sex education Oct. MEDA gets crash course on safety in volatile regions Oct. MWC executive meets in Ethiopia Oct. MCC using donations of $700,000 for Pakistan Oct. Bolivian Mennonites providing more services Oct. Good happenings among Bolivian OC Mennonites Oct. Continental Mission to be strengthened Oct. MCC U.S. announces essay contest Oct. MCC food account lowest level in years Nov. Cruise ship passengers visit MEDA project in Ukraine Nov. Central Americans hold 35th Anabaptist Consultation Nov. Michael Brandt loves the Church!

Dec. Continental Mission appoints new interim board Dec.

OBITUARIES

David Frank Doerksen, 1946–2009 Jan. 6 Andrew Siemens, 1991–2003 (memorial) Jan. 20 Abram Giesbrecht Wiebe, 1946–2010 Mar. 17 Helen Ethel (nee Fuller) Ronald, 1931–2010 April Neil (Cornelius) Friesen, 1941–2008 April Frank F. Doerksen, 1916–2009 April Allan Kavanaugh, 1938–2009 April Mary (nee Thiessen) Janzen, 1918–2010 May Carmen Marlyn (nee Janzen) Kwirant, 1978–2010 July Kaden Bryce Fehr, June 9, 2010 July Eldon Penner, 1942–2010 Aug. Bobbi Reneé (Neudorf) Schlarbaum, 1984–2009 Oct. Cornelius Janzen, 1927–2010 Oct. Mary (Wolfe) Rempel, 1925–2010 Nov. Ramona Darlene (Petkau) Reimer, 1983–2009 Nov. Fred Friesen, 1937–2010 Nov. Abraham (Abe) Brandt, 1934–2010 Dec.

PEOPLE MOVEMENT

John and Connie Reimer (BOM) Doris Penner (BOM)

PICTURES OF GOD

Holding hands in hard times New eyes to the poor

How far would you go for a free cup of coffee?

April Crossing over May Paving my own road to grace June Revolution on the streets July Embracing authority Aug. Scars that bind us Sept.

Lest the Cross be emptied of its power Oct. Justified Nov. Birth and rebirth Dec.

POEMS

The Capital Offence, Brigitte Toews Mar. 17 Cross Loss, Allan G. Lie June The Lamp of God, Brigitte Toews June Grieving Again, Paul Unruh July H-O-P-E, Eleanor Gustaw Dec.

SHOULDER TAPPING All issues

STEINBACH BIBLE COLLEGE

Breaking Free: From caregiver to equipper, Dr. Greg Ogden Feb. 3 Beyond pizza, big challenges Mar. 17 Greg Ogden presents a ‘no brainer’ April The Philippines taught ‘many lessons’ April 30 graduate at SBC May A different perspective on college athletics July Clothed and In Our Right Minds, Dr. Terry Hiebert Nov.

STEWARDSHIP TODAY

A season for giving Jan. 6 Show me the money!

Jan. 20 Living at the edge Feb. 3 Good Samaritan or just too busy? March 17 Plastic Surgery April Retirement: how do you feel about it? May ‘I choose,’ not ‘I can’t’ June Honesty about money July Retirement—eat, drink, and be merry!

August Joy and finances Sept.

Guardianship—take good care of your children Oct. Are they worth it?

Nov. Thy will be done Dec.

WEDDINGS

Jan. 6, Feb. 3, April, May, Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec.

WINDOW ON MISSIONS Oct. Oct.

Jan. 20 Mar. 17

‘What about Guadalajara?’

Mar. 17 Board of Missions considers Guadalajara and Bolivia May Whose responsibility is recruitment? Sept.

Fred Friesen, a pivotal figure in EMC missions Nov.

WRITINGS SHARED

A New Kind of Church: Understanding Models of Ministry for the 21st Century, Aubrey Malphurs Jan. 6 The Faith Given Once for All, Charles Colson and Harold Fickett Jan. 20 Monday Marriage: Celebrating the Ordinary, Gerald W. and L. Marlene Kaufman Feb. 3 Practices: Mennonite Worship and Witness, John D. Roth Mar. 17 Annie…Through it all, Betty Barkman May Woman to Woman, Sharing Jesus with a Muslim Friend, Joy Loewen May Under Construction: Reframing Men’s Spirituality, Gareth Brandt June Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church, N. T. Wright June Transforming Conflict and Anger into Peace and Non-Violence: A Spiritual Direction, Janet Malone June War, Peace, and Social Conscience: Guy F. Hershberger and Mennonite Ethics, Theron F. Schlabach Sept.

Open Window to Heaven, Elizabeth Reimer Oct. Sexuality: God’s Gift, Anne Krabille Hershberger Nov. The Naked Anabaptist: The Bare Essentials of a Radical Faith, Stuart Murray Nov. Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense, N. T. Wright Dec.

weddings ALVIZURIS – ROTUND: Mario Alvizuris of Winnipeg, Man., and Dorina Rotund of Romania were married in Romania on Oct. 2, 2010.

VILLALBA – FRIESEN: Marciel Toledo, son of Eustacio and Blanca Toledo of Pirapo, Paraguay, and Annabelle, daughter of Gerald and Frieda Friesen, were married on Oct. 2, 2010 at Braeside EMC in Winnipeg, Man., with Ron Penner officiating.

PRIES – DUECK: Kendall, son of Arnie and Wilma Pries of Winnipeg, Man., and Sarah, daughter of Eldon and Judy Dueck of Carman, Man., were married on Oct. 23, 2010 at Elm Creek, Man., with Edgar French officiating.

THE MESSENGER | December 2010

35

kids’ corner

by Loreena Thiessen

Be a peacemaker!

D

o you always get your favorite Do ever see others fight at school snack in your lunch? Do you over a disagreement? Do you take immediately get that new toy sides? Do you walk away? Or do you or game the minute you hear about it? get a teacher to sort it out?

Are your favorite jeans or T-shirts Jesus says, “Blessed are the always clean and ready to wear? peacemakers…” in Matthew 5:9. Two Does your best friend always agree thousand years ago the angels’ anwith your good idea or plan? nouncement of Jesus’ birth included Do you always get what you a hope for peace (Luke 2:14). Jesus want? came to bring peace to the whole What happens when you don’t? world.

Are you a peacemaker or do you What is a peacemaker? A peaceeasily pick fights? maker is someone who creates calm How will you know if you are a rather than conflict. How can you peacemaker? create calm?

Let’s say you open your lunch at Instead of having a temper school and all that’s there is an apple tantrum or pouting when you are and a peanut butter sandwich. Is this disappointed, or don’t get your way, what you expected? you can accept it. It may not be easy, Your favorite snack or food is not but remember, no one gets his way packed. Maybe you were out, or your all the time.

Mom was in a rush, or you did not pack it Each day you have the yourself. What do you opportunity to choose your do?

You could pout and actions and reactions. go hungry or you could smile, accept what’s there and eat it just to replenish your energy until supper time.

What if you have a great idea for that school project you are to do with a friend or two and they have a better idea. Do you demand to do it your way or are you able to work it out, or change your plans for someone else’s equally good idea?

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM 36

Activity: be a peacemaker for a day Need: • a notebook or several pages; 8 x 10 is good for drawing.

• pencil • crayons Do: Page 1: describe or draw what being a peacemaker means.

Page 2: describe or draw what I did to be a peacemaker.

Page 3: describe or draw what I felt about being a peacemaker.

You can tell others to remain calm when they are disappointed or hurt. If others see that you are calm they may grow calmer too.

Sometimes planning ahead can create a calm reassuring situation rather than a panicky and frustrating one.

If you really want certain food items in your lunch you could offer to go shopping with your Mom and help make choices and then pack your own. Then you’ll know what to expect at lunch time.

You can choose your clothes the night before or even plan what you’ll wear for the entire week. This way you’ll find what’s clean and what needs laundering before you want to wear it.

Each day you have the opportunity to choose your actions and reactions. Choosing to be a peacemaker creates a happy and healthy situation rather than frustration and anger.

And you’ll be blessed.

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5

Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 Registration #09914

THE MESSENGER | December 2010