The Messenger Vol. 49 No. 10 October 2011

THE

MESSENGER

volume 49, number 10 October 2011

www.emconference.ca/messenger

El Camino

Jesús Jesus Way

de

entre Gente Hispana

p. 8

The

among the Hispanic people

p. 10

Also inside: PHOTOS: DESIGNPICS.COM

Secretario General electo, César García reflexiona sobre su viaje y su visión p. 12 MWC General Secretary-elect César García reflects on journey and vision p. 14 Joe and Olga Reimer: grateful to ‘the Spirit’ who led them in ministry p. 16

$2.00

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

editorials

Does Luther’s hammer still ring?

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standard by which our faith and eformation Sunday is, as my Reformation was much ado about former professor Alvin Lewis nothing. Doctrine or teaching, some practice are to be judged is a Protestant principle. To state that once preached, neither a time people suggest, is unimportant; we can believe without following to throw stones at Roman Catholics faith in lifestyle is what is needed. in life is to place a meaning on nor a time to ignore differences.

Yet can faith, doctrine or believing that many early It was in October 1517 that To state that we can believe without following Anabaptists would have Martin Luther hammered faulted. the notice of his 95 Theses in life is to place a meaning on believing that In the EMC we are on the door of Castle Church many early Anabaptists would have faulted. indebted to the Protestant in Wittenberg, Germany—a Reformation and the Radical discussion about God’s grace Reformation within it. This hisand indulgences. Both had been teaching, and lifestyle be so neatly torical period deeply influences the twisted to where people seemed to separated? Can what we think, say current practices of our churches, buy their forgiveness. and do have scant connection? even if we simply assume the basis The ring of Luther’s hammer Neither the Protestant for them. was heard around the world, Alvin Reformation nor the Radical On Oct. 30, 2011, how consciousLewis preached. Does that ring still Reformation, at their best, would ly will your congregation reflect on matter? To Lewis, yes. To us? recognize such a division as proper and reflect the Reformation?

Today some Christians or helpful.

Terry M. Smith might think that the Protestant To say that Scripture is the

Congregational creativity and commitment

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here is a range of creative churches across the EMC. There are congregations with varying forms of government, styles of worship, languages used, groups reached, and vision.

Many Rooms Church Community, The ConneXion, and Good News Community Church reveal forms of Christian community that differ in shape from some other EMC churches.

Perhaps there were always differences. At least, one gets the impression that when the KG/EMC had five churches in one province,

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

there were some differences based on which side of “the River” the churches resided.

Today, some of our leaders and members seek to form churches along non-traditional lines and they are affecting the shape of our conference in an enriching, growing way.

In order to reach increasingly secular Canadians, creativity is needed. Whom do we seek to reach and what are we prepared, really, to do?

Whether we describe our local churches as traditional or creative, both terms are misleading.

Traditional churches can be creative; creative churches are not totally free of what has gone on before them (tradition).

How much is the form of our churches decided by Scripture and how much is decided by precedent?

In the Reformation, Luther sought to re-form the church, to address its abuses, and to return it to Scripture.

The Radical Reformation, in its view, sought to go further.

Truth, community, mission— these are emphases expressed today amid varied forms and ministries.

Terry M. Smith

contents Features El Camino de Jesús entre Gente Hispana/ 10 The Jesus Way among the Hispanic people

Departments 2 Editorials

8

– Antonio Pitta

12 Secretario General electo, César García reflexiona sobre su viaje y su visión/ 14 MWC General Secretaryelect, César García reflects on journey and vision – Kathy Heinrichs Wiest

16 Joe and Olga Reimer: grateful to ‘the Spirit’ who led them in ministry – Terry M. Smith

Columns 4

Writings Shared Finishing Well to the Glory of God: Strategies from a Christian Physician

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Archives Alcove The EMC story reflects God’s manifold grace – Terry M. Smith

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Focus On

‘New Wine’ at MCC—what does it mean for EMC? – Tim Dyck

34 Pictures of God

Temporary residents – Joanna Enns

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14 With Our Missionaries 18 Manitoba: It is harvest time!

18 Paraguay: The tools of gardening 19 Mexico: ‘So how do you handle the violence?’

20 Madagascar: Sending children into the unknown

5 Letters 21 Weddings 24 Births 32 In Memory 32 Calendar 33 Shoulder Tapping

News 5

New EMC conference pastor is hired

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EMC Quarterly Financial Report

20 New workers in Guadalajara, Mexico

With Our Churches 21 Morweena EMC: Church math 22 Prairie Rose EMC: A season for every activity 23 Evangelical Fellowship Church (Steinbach): Steinbach EFC’s sanctuary gets a new look 24 Mennville EMC: Janette Brandt serves in Nicaragua

Pontius’ Puddle

27 150 golfers attend Project Builders tournament 28 Stolen aid not whole story of disaster response 29 Thanks expressed for East Africa donations 30 Child-centred preschool bolsters Batwa education 30 An MDS update

25 Braeside EMC: Celebrating marriage, baptism, and community

31 Foodgrains bank commits additional $300,000 to East Africa

26 Westpointe Community Church: Costa Rica is pura vida!

31 IDOP is Sunday, November 13, 2011 31 MWC begins talks with SDA

26 Riverton Gospel Chapel: Baptisms at RGC

35 Stewardship Today

Marriage and money – Sherri Grosz

36 Kids’ Corner

How to be thankful – Loreena Thiessen

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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THE

MESSENGER

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

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.

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.

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. Digital only subscriptions: $15 per year.

Single copy price: $2 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 (CPF) 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

The Messenger Schedule: No. 12 – December 2011 issue (copy due November 18)

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

writings shared

Finishing Well to the Glory of God: Strategies from a Christian Physician, John Dunlop, MD (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2011), 229 pp. $15.99. ISBN 97814335113473. Reviewed by William Kehler, chaplain, Rest Haven Nursing Home (Steinbach, Man.).

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The strategies laid out in his work by John Dunlop, a physician understandable wisdom in Illinois, is about speak to the heart of the the dying to live process. questions we often don’t ask.

It is a subject that most people quietly avoid even I appreciated the simplicity of his though we all understand that death and view on grieving and the advice on dying begins at the time of birth. helping each other in the process. His The author does an admiral job of views on living each day even in grief are giving a biblical perspective of living out refreshing in their truth. this dying life, and living our entire lives The concept that often close friends comfortable with the hope of finishing and family can grow together through well. Dr. Dunlop approaches life and this exceptional time is a reality too death from the viewpoint of a Christian physician and tells fascinating life stories often forgotten.

Dr. Dunlop does an excellent job of to enrich the principles of finishing well pinning God’s Word to the reality that as a life goal.

The strategies laid out in understand- is laid before us: “This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that able wisdom speak to the heart of the I have set before you life and death, questions we often don’t ask—until the day comes when we find ourselves stand- blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live” ing at the bedside of a relative or friend, (Deuteronomy 30:19 NIV). trying desperately to find the words to say, realizing they should have been said long ago.

Guadalajara, Mexico Prayer Team Date: February 20–27, 2012 This prayer team of seven people will be visiting strategic locations in Guadalajara, praying specifically for the people of this city. You will also have the opportunity to meet the people that the team has come to love and appreciate. 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.

teamguadalajara.blogspot.com

letters Concerned about disregarding constitution with tacit approval I am responding to the letter from Darryl Klassen [A balance of conference leadership needed] in the September issue of The Messenger.

I read with interest his concerns regarding Trudy Dueck’s article [Moving towards our preferred future, June], and some apparent directions of our conference.

I wish to express my basic agreement with Darryl and add some observations of my own. Although I have not been involved in the inner workings of the conference in the past few years, I have been in our churches and have a keen interest in my conference. It is in these churches that I hear of some of the conference directions.

One of my concerns is about a concept mentioned by Darryl and

one I have heard “out there.” Our constitution has been described in recent years as a “guideline” with considerable flexibility in how it is practiced by individual churches.

I know of at least three constitutional points that have been disregarded or eliminated by local churches without the discipline that Darryl refers to. It seems there has been, at the very least, tacit approval.

One church has eliminated the statement on non-resistance; others are disregarding the statement on leadership; the third one involves the acceptance of members not baptized upon their confession of faith.

Some of these strike at the very centre of our Anabaptist core and identity.

I fear that if what we state as being our identity on paper, is slowly being chipped away by our practice, in a short time we will not have a theological identity as a conference. Not only that, we will have strayed seriously from our understanding of Scripture.

It is possible these concerns about constitutional practice have been discussed, and conclusions drawn, at Conference Council or other bodies with the authority to make decisions about deviations from our constitution. If so, I am not aware of these decisions. I trust that they will be addressed in the proper time and in the right forums.

Don Thiessen Steinbach, Man.

news

New EMC conference pastor is hired Ward Parkinson will commence duties December 1, 2011 The Board of Leadership and Outreach (BLO) is pleased to announce that Ward Parkinson will be our new EMC conference pastor.

An EMC member since 1986, Ward has served the EM Conference well. He has twice been chair of the Board of Church Ministries and, most recently, for past five years has served as Canadian Church Planting Coordinator under the BLO. His work has intertwined with that of the previous conference pastor David Thiessen; and while David was on a sabbatical two years

studies took him to Manitoba where ago for four months, Ward and the he obtained a B.A. in biblical educaBLO filled in for him. tion at Providence College.

Ward was He has a Master of Divinity youth pastor degree from Providence and later senior Theological Seminary. pastor at Morris He is married to Fellowship Janine, a nurse. They have Chapel in southfour grown children. He ern Manitoba for and Janine have their a total of 18 years. home in Morris, Man. Ward was We look forward to his raised in Quebec start on December 1, 2011. and Ontario. His Board of Leadership sense of pastoral and Outreach Ward Parkinson call and need for

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archives alcove

by Terry Smith

The EMC story reflects God’s manifold grace

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he earlier EMC story is linked to Germany and to the Netherlands, then to Poland (later Prussia), to southern Russia (now Ukraine), then to North America (Manitoba and Nebraska).

This is true enough, but there is more.

The EMC story is more diverse than this suggests. Take, as a sample, the 11 people who work in the EMC national office as of September 30. (If we looked at their spouses, the same diversity would be apparent.)

Gerald Reimer, David Thiessen, Paul Thiessen (missionary-in-residence), Erica Fehr, and Wannetta Fast are of KG/EMC roots. Some can trace their family tree to Klaas Reimer, the Kleine Gemeinde’s early leader.

Rebecca Roman’s roots are along Bergthal/Sommerfeld lines. Her forebears moved to Canada around the same time as the first KG immigrants. At least two branches of her family immigrated from Chortitza (now in Ukraine).

Ken Zacharias’s roots are similar to Rebecca’s. His family roots are in the Rosthern, Sask., area.

He was raised in an EMB/FEBC church.

Tim Dyck was raised in southern Ontario. His father was born in Latvia in 1927 while Tim’s grandparents were en route from Russia to North America.

The history of German Mennonites who lived, suffered, and many who died through the

Russian Revolution and Soviet terrors is, through some of our members, part of the EMC story.

Ward Parkinson, with British forebears, was raised in United, Pentecostal, and AGC churches in Quebec and Ontario. Terry Smith’s roots are mostly English-IrishScottish and in the United Church.

Diana Peters has her roots in southern Ontario; her great-grandparents were born in Manitoba but moved to Mexico. Her grandparents and parents came to Canada.

The EMC story includes many German-speaking Mennonites who moved to Mexico, Paraguay, Belize, and Bolivia—and those who came to Canada from a range of Germanand Spanish-speaking Mennonite groups.

Our story includes the Western Gospel Mission era (1946-1961) when churches were established in Manitoba and Saskatchewan among people of Scandinavian, Ukrainian, and other rich cultures. Our EMC story includes Hispanic members from South and Central America.

The EMC story includes, but also moves beyond the Kleine Gemeinde story. The EMC is a diverse, rich gathering of people, with a reshaping that is occurring.

In 1978 the missions history of the EMC was described as “EverWidening Circles.” Yes, the circles (the edges) are widening, but so, too, is the core—the centre—of the EMC. This is important to recognize and to celebrate.

The EMC story is too rich to be reduced to “us” and “them,” those who trace their roots to the Kleine Gemeinde or Klaas Reimer and those who cannot. A study of genealogy is clearly not Anabaptism at its spiritual or theological best.

How many of us decided where the generations before us worshipped? The only choice we can make is our own; but our choice has implications for later generations.

Today, the spiritual health and physical growth of the EMC reflect the manifold grace of God (1 Peter 4:10). Such awareness shapes how we tell our story today.

The EMC story is too rich to be reduced to “us” and “them,” those who can trace their roots to the Kleine Gemeinde or Klaas Reimer and those who cannot.

Wannetta Fast

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

Ken Zacharias

focus on

by Tim Dyck

‘New Wine’ at MCC—what does it mean for EMC?

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ver the past several years, you’ve probably heard about the New Wine/New Wineskins process at MCC. Perhaps you’ve even participated in a session where MCC asked supporters to provide feedback.

By now you may wonder, What has become of all of this talk about new wine?

There have been many changes as a result of this process of self-examination.

Regarding the revisioning (new wine) process, MCC has modified their statements of identity, purpose and vision: Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), a worldwide ministry of Anabaptist churches, shares God’s love and compassion for all in the name of Christ by responding to basic human needs and working for peace and justice. MCC envisions communities worldwide in right relationship with God, one another and creation.

They have also adopted the Shared Convictions as identified by the Mennonite World Conference.

Regarding the restructuring (new wineskins) process, substantial changes are being proposed. In the past, all international programming was administered by MCC Binational, which is headquartered in Akron, PA. Beginning in January 2012, MCC Binational will be discontinued, and all international programs will be administered jointly by MCC Canada and MCC US. As a result,

MCC Canada will have much more responsibility.

The structure of MCC Canada is also changing, as shown by a new constitution being drafted.

Instead of reporting to a large delegate body, MCC Canada wants to link regularly and closely to the churches that support their work.

The group of seven national church bodies in Canada—which includes the EMC—will now play a much more active role in giving direction to MCC. Leaders from these seven national church bodies meet regularly as the Canadian Council of Anabaptist Leaders. For the EMC, the Moderator and General Secretary are the usual participants in CCAL meetings.

CCAL will appoint members to the MCC Canada board, and will meet several times a year with MCC Canada to relate together.

So what does this mean for EMC? It’s my observation that MCC has made a huge effort to align itself

more closely with the church and become accountable to the church.

So we, the church, should respond with our enthusiastic involvement and support of the ministry of MCC. First, members of our churches could get involved in MCC by working and/or volunteering for the ministry. There are frequent openings listed on their web site.

Second, I encourage our congregations to continue to provide financial support to MCC. Third, the General Board is looking for individuals interested in serving as board members with MCC Canada. If you know of someone who would be a good candidate for a board member, please send me a note. I would also like to hear from you if you have any general questions and/or comments about MCC.

EMC Archives Committee members sought!

The EMC national Archives Committee welcomes new members to serve on it. The committee meets four to six times (evenings) per year and is a working committee entrusted to promote an understanding of EMC history and of preserving historical documents. Meetings are usually held at Steinbach, Man., but new members could also assist by phone or Skype. Terms can be one to three years. Local committee travel costs are covered. Contact executive secretary Terry Smith at tsmith@emconf.ca or 204-326-6401.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

juan 11

El Camino de Jesús entre Gente Hispana

por Antonio Pitta

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esús y el trió de hermanos: Martha, María y Lázaro.

Amor, oración, comunidad, y presencia del reino.

Amor El camino de Jesús entre los hispanos, implica amarlos. Lo que me parece más interesante es el motivo básico de interés de Dios para salvar a un pueblo para él. ¡El amor! Juan 11:05 dice “Y amaba Jesús a Marta, a su hermana y a Lázaro.” Lo más importante de la encarnación es simplemente amar a la gente como Jesús amaba a la gente, lo suficiente como para ir a ellos.

El Camino de Jesús entre los hispanos incluye el cuidado de ellos, porque los ama. Jesús se preocupaba por sus discípulos. La gente para Jesús es muy valiosa, cada persona tiene un valor impresionante.

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

María comprendió la gravedad de la hora antes de la muerte de Cristo. Y Jesús se dejó amar. Cuando hacemos el ministerio nos entregamos de tal manera que de la misma manera que amamos y nos entregamos, de esa manera somos amados de regreso.

Ella unge ungió el cuerpo de Jesús como preparación para el día de su entierro. Jesús aceptó agradecido esta muestra de amor de María.

Cuando nos preocupamos por las personas nos volvemos vulnerables, estamos abiertos a ser heridos, al igual que los que estamos ayudando están sufriendo.

El ministerio encarnado es de alto contacto o amor ágape aplicado.

Nosotros no podemos ser objetivos, ni extraños ni fríos. Estamos realmente con la gente por lo tanto

somos realmente vulnerables. Juan 11:33 dice “Jesús entonces, al verla llorando, y a los judíos que la acompañaban, también llorando, se estremeció en espíritu y se conmovió.”

identidad está ligada a las relaciones familiares como en Latinoamérica, la relación trinitaria y de la identidad es más fácil de comprender y aceptar.

Pero en la sociedad de Norteamérica afuera de la Iglesia hay tanto individualismo, que si no ponemos Oración atención como hispanos podemos creer que esa es la El camino de Jesús entre los hispanos, se asenorma a seguir, y se nos olvida de que incluso el “Llanero meja a la comunión con el Padre Solitario” tenía a su amigo Toro. en oración. En Juan 11: 22 dice “Más He escuchado en muchas reSi no hay oración no también sé ahora que todo lo que uniones evangelísticas “Todo lo que pidas a Dios, Dios te lo dará.” Marta tienes que hacer para ser salvo, es podríamos hacer nada sabía de la relación que Jesús tenía aceptar a Jesús en tu corazón; una como hijos de Dios ni como con el padre y estaba segura de que buena iglesia bíblica sería de ayuda plantadores de Iglesia, porque si Jesús le pedía al padre algo, el para el nuevo creyente, pero lo padre se lo daría. importante es una relación personal la oración es la esencia de Más tarde, Jesús confirma los con Jesús.” quien somos y de cómo comentarios de Marta. “Entonces Pablo nunca hubiera predicado hacemos nuestro ministerio. quitaron la piedra de donde había ese mensaje. La iglesia primitiva sido puesto el muerto. Y Jesús, alpredicó, “Creed y se bautizado” (El zando los ojos a lo alto, dijo: Padre, bautismo siempre significo unirse a gracias te doy por haberme oído. Yo sabía que siempre un cuerpo particular de creyentes). La fe siempre vino me oyes; pero lo dije por causa de la multitud que está dentro del contexto de comunidad. alrededor, para que crean que tú me has enviado.” (Juan ¿Por qué? Porque comunidad es el único ambiente 11:41-42) donde realmente se transforman vidas. Las Iglesias Sin las oraciones de muchas personas en nuestra hispanas queremos ser transformados y sacados de conferencia que aman a sus amigos de América Latina nuestras individualidades para ser plantados en una alcanzarlos sería muy difícil. Si no hay oración no comunidad donde reine el respeto mutuo, el amor y el podríamos hacer nada como hijos de Dios ni como ánimo en un lugar que va mas allá de las cuatro paredes plantadores de Iglesia, porque la oración es la esencia de de nuestras Iglesias, queremos ser transformados por quien somos y de cómo hacemos nuestro ministerio. el amor y aliento de otros hermanos en la fe de nuestra fraternidad.

Comunidad El camino de Jesús entre los hispanos abraza la Presencia comunidad. Jesús utilizó cualquier oportunidad para El camino de Jesús entre los hispanos implica pencompartir las comidas con quien lo invitó a su casa. etrar en la cultura con la presencia del reino. Jesús no Juan 12:2 dice “Y le hicieron allí una cena; Marta servía, se limitó simplemente a hacer amigos. Él los alcanzaba y Lázaro era uno de los que estaban sentados a la mesa con su amor, y lo hacía mientras que él estaba llevando con él.” las enseñanzas de su reino.

Un nuevo hermano en la fe me dice, el problema con “Aconteció que yendo de camino, entró en una Canadá es que cuando llegamos realmente nos sentialdea; y una mujer llamada Marta le recibió en su casa. mos solos. La soledad es muy fuerte.

Esta tenía una hermana que se llamaba María, la cual, La gente de Latinoamérica es gente que ha dejado sentándose a los pies de Jesús, oía su palabra.” (Lucas sus familiares, sus trabajos, sus amigos, sus círculos 10:38) sociales, sus barrios y sus naciones. Llegan a Canadá El camino de Jesús entre los hispanos, es igual y desean ser parte de un grupo al cual ellos puedan a llamar a seguidores a comprometerse con el movpertenecer. La Iglesia de Cristo es el lugar adecuado, imiento de Jesús. El hecho de vivir en Judea tan cerca de que les puede ofrecer una nueva familia, nuevos amigos, Jerusalén, era un riesgo para este trió. Mas sin emun nuevo círculo social, en otras palabras una nueva bargo ellos no renunciaron a ser seguidores de Cristo. comunidad.

Podemos ver las consecuencias de Lázaro. La última Esto puede ser muy difícil para nosotros quienes aparición del trío termina con una nota sombría acerca vivimos en Norteamérica. En las culturas donde la de Lázaro. (continued p. 10)

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“Pero los principales sacerdotes acordaron dar muerte también a Lázaro, 11 porque a causa de él muchos de los judíos se apartaban y creían en Jesús.” (Juan 12:10) ¿Estamos dispuestos a invitar a otros a cambiar sus alianzas? Esa es una de las cosas más difíciles de los plantadores de iglesias – ¿cómo podemos llegar a las personas que tienen raíces muy profundas fuera del reino?

Lo que tratamos de hacer en nuestro ministerio es dirigirnos a aquellos que no tienen raíces profundas en la sociedad. Nuestra iglesia está compuesta de personas que tienen un promedio de dos años viviendo en Calgary.

¿Estamos dispuestos a invitar a otros a cambiar sus alianzas?

Esa es la forma en que fui traído al reino de Dios cuando llegue a Canadá por la Iglesia Braeside.

Esta es un área de oportunidad en Canadá un país lleno de inmigrantes. ¿Por qué no llegamos a ellos antes de establecerse en Canadá fuera del Reino de Dios?

A los Menonitas Alemanes, a los hispanos, los de lengua francesa, etc. Nosotros como hispanos debido al idioma, al menos comencemos con los que hablan nuestro mismo idioma.

Que el Señor los bendiga mientras nos asociamos en nuestros esfuerzos por traer la gente general e hispana para Cristo.

Antonio Pitta es el pastor de la Iglesia Emanuel Cristiana en Ciudad Calgary, Alberta. Presentó su mensaje Sábado en la noche durante la convención en Calgary.

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john 11

The Jesus Way among the Hispanic People

by Antonio Pitta

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esus and the family trio: Martha, Mary and Lazarus. Love, prayer, community, and the presence of the Kingdom.

Love The Jesus Way among the Hispanics implies loving them.

What seems most interesting to me is that the basic motive of God’s interest for saving a nation for himself. Love!

John 11:5: “Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.” The most important part of the Incarnation is simply loving people the way Jesus loved them enough to go to them.

The Jesus Way among the Hispanics includes his care for them because he loves them. Jesus was concerned about his disciples.

All people are worth a lot to Jesus; every person has an impressive value.

Mary understood the seriousness of the last hour before Christ’s death. And Jesus allowed himself to be loved. When we do ministry, we commit ourselves in such a way that in the same way that we love and commit ourselves, we are loved in return.

She anointed the body of Jesus in preparation for the day of his burial. Jesus gratefully accepted Mary’s expression of love.

When we care about people we get vulnerable, open to be hurt, just like those who we are helping are hurting. Incarnate ministry is close contact ministry or applied agape love.

We cannot be objective, or distant, or cold. In reality we are with people and therefore really vulnerable. John 11:33 says, “When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.”

Prayer The Jesus Way among the Hispanics is similar to having fellowship with the Father in prayer. John 11:22: “But I know that even now God will give you what you ask.” Mary knew about Jesus’ relationship with the Father and was convinced that if He would request something of the Father, He would give it to him.

Later, Jesus confirms Mary’s comments. John 11:41-42: “So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, ‘Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of those standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.’”

Without the prayers of many in our conference that love their Latin American friends, reaching them would be very difficult. Without prayer we wouldn’t be able to do anything as God’s children nor as church planters because prayer is the essence of who we are and how we do ministry.

Community The Jesus Way among the Hispanics embraces the community. Jesus took every opportunity to eat with whoever invited him to their home.

John 12:2: “Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honour.

Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.”

A new brother in the faith said to me that the problem with Canada is that when we arrived we really felt lonely. Loneliness is very strong.

The Latin Americans have left their families, their work, their friends, their social circles, their neighbours, and their nation. They arrive in Canada and desire to be part of a group to which they can belong.

The church of Jesus Christ is the appropriate group who can offer a new family, new friends, a new social circle—in other words, a new community.

This can be very difficult for those of us who live in North America. In cultures where identity is tied up with family relationships, like in Latin America, Trinitarian and identity relationships are easier to understand and accept.

But in the North American society there is a lot of individualism outside of the church, and if we Hispanics don’t pay attention, we could believe that this is the rule to follow and forget that even the Lone Ranger had a friend Tonto.

In many evangelistic meetings I have heard that, “All that you have to do in order to be saved is accept Jesus in your heart. A good biblical church would be a help for the new believer, but the thing is to have a personal relationship with Jesus.”

Paul would never have preached that message.

The Church preached, “Believe and be baptized.”

Baptism always means uniting with a particular group of believers. Faith always came within the context of community.

Why? Because community is the only place where lives are really transformed.

The Hispanic church wants to be transformed and removed from our individualities to be planted in a community where mutual respect, love, and enthusiasm reigns in a place that goes beyond the four walls of our churches. We want to be transformed by the love

and encouragement of other brethren in the faith of our constituency.

Presence The Jesus Way among the Hispanics implies to penetrate the culture with the presence of the Kingdom.

Jesus did not limit himself to only making friends. He reached them with love and did that while he shared the teachings of the kingdom.

Luke 10:38-39: “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, they came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.”

The Jesus Way among the Hispanics is the same as calling followers to commit themselves to the Jesus movement. The fact that they lived in Judea, close to Jerusalem, was a risk for this trio.

However, they did not renounce being followers of Christ. We can see the consequence in Lazarus.

The last appearance of the trio ends with a somber note about Lazarus. John 12:10-11: “So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him.”

Are we ready to invite others to change their allegiances?

This is one of the most difficult things for church planters: how can we reach people who have very deep roots outside of the kingdom?

What we try to do in our ministry is to reach those who don’t have deep roots in the society. Our church is made up of people who have lived in Calgary for an average of two years only.

In this way I was drawn to the Kingdom of God by the Braeside Church when I arrived in Canada.

This is an area of great opportunities, a country full of immigrants. Why don’t we reach them before they get rooted in Canada outside the Kingdom of God? People like the German Mennonites, the Hispanics, the French, etc.

We, as Hispanics, due to our language, at least need to begin with those who speak the same language.

May the Lord bless you as we join hands in our efforts to bring Hispanics and others to Christ!

Antonio Pitta is the pastor of Iglesia Emmanuel Cristiana (Emmanuel Christian Church) in Calgary, Alta. He spoke on Saturday evening at convention.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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Secretario General electo, César García reflexiona sobre su viaje y su visión por Kathy Heinrichs Wiest

Tradiciones Teológicos El amor de García para el aprendizaje lo ha puesto en contacto con muchas de las tradiciones teológicas.

Como un niño que asistió una escuela privada católica, se encontró a sí mismo llevando sus enseñanzas nuevas en conversación con sus maestros. “Por supuesto perdí el argumento cada vez,” dijo con una sonrisa, “pero me empujó en mis convicciones.”

García trabajó durante seis años en una estación de radio cristiana donde interactuó con los líderes 12

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

FOTOS: BYRON REMPEL-BURKHOLDER

C

omo un historiador menonita aficionado le gustaba decir, el único nombre menonita real Menno Simons. Desde aquel entonces, los demás nombres de la familia son “adicionales.” Después de una serie de Congreso Mundial Menonita (CMM) secretarios llamado Dyck (1961-1973), Kraybill (1973-90) y Miller (1990 -2011), el nombre de García se destaca como una adición reciente a la historia de la familia Anabautista.

La historia personal de César García con la familia de menonitas se inició en Bogotá, Colombia, cuando su madre se llevó a él y su hermana a varias iglesias en busca de una nueva iglesia. Once años de edad, César eligió la Iglesia Hermanos Menonitas Dios es Amor como el lugar que se conformaría.

La elección fue el primer paso en un viaje constante de García, que ha venido a ver la teología y la historia Anabautista como un tesoro y ha dado su vida a la erudición, a la misión y para dar forma a la iglesia desde una perspectiva Anabaptista.

Motivado para entender las Escrituras y tener una fe razonada ha caracterizado el camino de García, desde lo que él llama su “primera conversión” a los 19 años.

Después algunos años de la adolescencia rechazando a Dios y la iglesia, García se encontró deprimido y frustrado por el existencialismo y otras filosofías que estaba persiguiendo.

Bajo la presión de su madre a volver a la iglesia, García asistió a una reunión de jóvenes en la iglesia “Dios es Amor” donde fue tocado por la aserción del predicador “Dios no nos ve como un problema sino como una posibilidad en sus manos.” Con medio creído que “habló con las paredes,” García dijo a Dios que quería experimentar esa esperanza.

Los miembros del Congreso Mundial Menonita Comité Ejecutivo, el CMM Comisiones del Consejo General, y los anabaptistas Young (YABs) Comité de orar por César García tras su nombramiento como Secretario General electo en su 2011 reuniones de mayo, en Taipei, Taiwán.

cristianos de diferentes denominaciones carismáticas, evangélicas y las líneas principales. “Fue un tiempo de crecimiento teológicamente,” dijo de los años de enseñanza y asesoramiento en su ministerio de radio y servir como pastor de jóvenes y ancianos en la iglesia “Dios es Amor.”

Más educación formal en Seminario Bíblico de Colombia, un seminario inter-denominacional en Medellín, le ganó una licenciatura en Teología y Biblia, con énfasis en misiología y le dio las herramientas para el estudio de las Escrituras. Bien versados en ​​ la teología protestante, García estaba listo para su “segunda conversión”—a Anabaptismo.

Juan Martínez, presidente de “SEMILLA,” el Seminario Anabautista Latinonamericano en Guatemala en aquel tiempo, desafió a García para completar su educación a través del estudio Anabaptismo. Cuando García y su esposa, Sandra Báez, se trasladaron a Bogotá para el ministerio de la iglesia, el aceptó el reto, empezando leyendo el libro de John Driver Eclesiología Radical. “Fue increíble,” dijo, “como un dulce para el niño.”

Un año más tarde, él y Sandra fueron comisionados como plantadores de iglesias en Bogotá y aprovecharon la oportunidad para tejer su nueva teología en todos los aspectos de la Iglesia Hermanos Menonitas “Torre Fuerte.” “Yo estaba emocionado por la comunidad participativa, la disciplina de restaurativa, un liderazgo de servicio y la hermenéutica comunal. Era tan claro que quería ese tipo de valores para nuestra iglesia nueva.” El espíritu de la comunidad llamó a los nuevos creyentes, y la iglesia creció y floreció.

García da crédito a profesores visitantes que ayudaron a los pastores Colombianos tener una mejor comprensión de la teología Anabaptista.

Relaciones Global Por tanto que valora las ideas y principios del Anabaptismo, García también valora sus conexiones con la comunidad Anabaptista global. Otros líderes en Portugal y Venezuela se cuentan ahora entre sus amigos más cercanos, debido a su trabajo conjunto en la Comunidad Internacional de los Hermanos Menonitas (ICOMB).

Otras nuevas amistades se han desarrollado entre MB, Hermanos en Cristo y los líderes de la Iglesia Menonita de Colombia. Después de algunos períodos de poca interacción o cooperación entre las tres denominaciones, “el Comité Central Menonita nos ayudó dar cuenta de que en realidad no éramos tan diferentes y que muchas de las sospechas entre nosotros eran sólo eso.”

César García saluda a los Sung-Chiang congregación menonita en Taipei, Taiwán, en mayo . A su derecha se MWC Secretario General Larry Miller y Josué Chang, Sung Chiang-pastor y ex delegado del Consejo General del CMM.

“Tengo un llamado personal para eliminar las sospechas y más bien mostrar aprecio y respeto por las diferencias,” dijo. “Hay diferencias, pero eso no quiere decir que tenemos que fragmentarnos. El cuerpo de Cristo es un organismo vivo que exige la diversidad, pero también requiere amor y unidad.”

Uno de los puentes que García quiere fortalecer es lo que existe entre las personas con un pedigrí Menonita de largo tiempo con los que han venido a la fe Anabaptista más recientemente. Al mismo tiempo, él sabe por experiencia propia el valor de venir a la fe Anabaptista por convicción y no herencia. “Le da la oportunidad de tener una pasión—a enamorarse con la tradición.”

“Tenemos que valorase el Anabaptismo por convicción, pero también tenemos que mantener nuestra tradición histórica, y aprender que están relacionadas, no opuesto,” afirmó. “Estamos sedientos de identidad.

En Anabaptismo nos encontramos un cuerpo vivo que ofrezca esto—no sólo teológicamente, sino también históricamente.”

Expresiones Culturales García también quiere fortalecer la capacidad de cada familia nacional en la Conferencia Menonita Mundial (CMM) para encontrar y compartir su propia expresión cultural del Anabaptismo. “El CMM es relevante ya que las iglesias étnicas llevar nuestra propia identidad y la teología contextualizada, en lugar de copiar los patrones occidentales,” explicó. “El enriquecimiento ocurre cuando todas las iglesias trae ese tipo de valor.”

Cuando se le preguntó lo que el vale de CMM, García hizo una pausa, disfrutando de exploración mental de los rostros que serían alrededor de la mesa en sus reuniones. “Yo valoro a las personas que están allí.

Cada uno es como un tesoro,” reflexionó. “Ellos traen ideas de sus contextos diferentes, dones diferentes, y diferentes maneras de ver la vida y la iglesia.”

César García y Sandra Báez tienen dos hijas adolescentes, María y Paula. Recientemente han completado dos años de estudio en La Universidad Pacifico de Fresno, la universidad Hermanos Menonitas en Fresno, California. César obtuvo una Maestría de Artes en Teología y Sandra completó una Maestría de Artes en la Pacificación y Resolución de Conflictos. La familia se hace cómoda de nuevo en Bogotá.

Kathy Heinrichs Wiest es un escritor de Kingsburg, California, EE.UU. Este artículo fue encargado por Meetinghouse.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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MWC General Secretary-elect César García reflects on journey and vision

by Kathy Heinrichs Wiest

A

s one amateur Mennonite historian points out, with his teachers. “Of course I lost the argument every the only real Mennonite name is Menno Simons. time,” he said with a smile, “but it pushed me in my From there on down through history, the rest of convictions.” the family names are just “add-ons.”

García worked for six years at a Christian radio After a series of Mennonite World Conference station where he interacted with Christian leaders from (MWC) secretaries named Dyck (1961-73), Kraybill charismatic, evangelical and mainline denominations.

(1973-90) and Miller (1990-2011) the name of García “It was a time of growing theologically,” he said of those stands out as an historically recent addition to the years teaching and counselling in his radio ministry Anabaptist family—and is the first from the Global and serving as youth pastor and elder at “Dios es Amor” South. church.

César García’s personal story with the Mennonite More formal education at Seminario Bíblico family began in Bogotá, Colombia, when his mother de Colombia, an interdenominational seminary in took him and his sister to several churches in search of Medellín, earned him a Bachelor of Theology and a new church home. Eleven-year-old Bible with an emphasis on missiology César chose the Iglesia Hermanos and gave him the tools for study of Menonitas Dios es Amor (God is Love One of the bridges García is Scripture. Well-versed in Protestant Mennonite Brethren Church) as the theology, García was now ready for his determined to strengthen place they would settle. “second conversion”—to Anabaptism. is the one between people That choice was the first step on Juan Martínez, then president of the a continuing journey for García, who SEMILLA Latin American Anabaptist with a long Mennonite has come to treasure Anabaptist Seminary in Guatemala, challenged pedigree and those who theology and history and has given García to complete his education by have come to Anabaptist his life to scholarship, to mission studying Anabaptism. When García and to shaping the church from an and his wife, Sandra Báez, moved back faith more recently.

Anabaptist perspective. to Bogotá for church ministry he took A drive to understand Scripture up the challenge, starting with John and have a reasoned faith has characterized García’s Driver’s book, Eclesiología Radical. “It was amazing,” he walk since what he calls his “first conversion” at age 19. said, “like candy for a child.”

After some teen years rejecting God and the church, A year later, he and Sandra were commissioned as García found himself depressed and unfulfilled by the church planters in Bogotá and seized the opportunity existentialism and other philosophies he was pursuing. to weave their new-found theology into every aspect Under pressure from his mother to come back to of Iglesia Hermanos Menonitas Torre Fuerte (Strong church, García attended a Dios es Amor youth meeting Tower MB Church). where he was touched by the speaker’s assertion: “God “I was excited about participative community, doesn’t see us as a problem but as a possibility in his restorative discipline, servant leadership and communal hands.” Half-believing that he was just “talking to the hermeneutic. It was so clear that I wanted that kind of walls,” García told God that he wanted to experience values for our new church.” The spirit of community that hope. drew new believers, and the church grew and flourished.

García credits visiting teachers with helping the Theological Traditions Colombian pastors gain a deeper understanding of García’s love for learning has brought him into Anabaptist theology. contact with many theological traditions. As a child attending private Catholic school, he already found Global Relationships himself bringing his new teachings into discussions As much as he values the ideas and principles of 14

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

PHOTO: TANGIE SHEETS

César García with daughters María and Paula, and spouse Sandra Báez.

Anabaptism, García also cherishes his relationships in the global Anabaptist community. Fellow leaders in Portugal and Venezuela are now counted among his closest friends because of their work together in the International Community of Mennonite Brethren (ICOMB).

Other new friendships have developed among MB, Brethren in Christ and Mennonite Church leaders in Colombia. After some periods of little interaction or cooperation between the three denominations, “Mennonite Central Committee helped us to realize that in reality we were not so different and that many of the suspicions between us were only that.”

“I have a calling for eliminating suspicions and rather showing appreciation and respect for differences,” he added. “There are differences, but that doesn’t mean we have to fragment. The body of Christ is a living organism that demands diversity, but also requires love and unity.”

One of the bridges García is determined to strengthen is the one between people with a long Mennonite pedigree and those who have come to Anabaptist faith more recently.

At the same time, he knows from experience the value of coming to Anabaptist faith by conviction rather than heritage. “It gives the opportunity to have a passion—to fall in love with the tradition.”

“We need to value Anabaptism by conviction, but we also need to maintain our historical tradition, and to learn that those things are related, and not opposed,” he asserted. “We are thirsty for identity. In Anabaptism

we find a body that offers that—not just theologically, but also historically.”

Cultural Expressions García also wants to strengthen the ability of every national body in the MWC to find and share its own cultural expression of Anabaptism. “MWC is relevant as ethnic churches bring our own identity and theology contextualized, instead of just copying Western patterns,” he explained. “Enrichment happens when every church brings that kind of value.”

When asked what he values about MWC, García paused, taking delight in mentally scanning the faces that would be around the table at their meetings.

“I value the people who are there. Each one is like a treasure,” he reflected. “They bring insights from their different contexts, different gifts, different ways of seeing life and church.”

César García and Sandra Báez have two teenaged daughters, María and Paula. They have recently completed two years of study at Fresno Pacific University, the Mennonite Brethren university in Fresno, California.

César earned a Master of Arts in Theology and Sandra completed a Master of Arts in Peacemaking and Conflict Studies. The family is currently settling again in Bogotá.

Kathy Heinrichs Wiest is from Kingsburg, California.

This article was commissioned by Meetinghouse.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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Joe and Olga Reimer: grateful to ‘the Spirit’ who led them in ministry

PHOTO: TERRY M.

SMITH

by Terry M. Smith

: E MC PHOTO

ARCHIV

ES

How does a community of faith say “thank you”? Or a TEAM representative honour workers whom he does not know well? Or someone speak both as a nephew and as a Board of Missions member on behalf of the EMC? How does a couple receive thanks when they are uncomfortable in receiving it? With grace.

T

he evening of Sept. 8, 2011, saw about 60 people gather at Heartland Community Church in Landmark, Man., to show appreciation to Joe and Olga Reimer, who are retiring from 38 and a half years of cross-cultural work, mostly in southern Africa.

The honoured couple, family and friends, crosscultural workers, and national staff were welcomed and greeted by Tim Dyck, EMC general secretary. He read from the Gospel of John and led in prayer before a meal was served by Doris Penner and crew.

Luke Reimer, grandnephew to Joe and Olga, then sang two songs in a western styling. His vocal range showed potential and the choice of songs showed his Christian faith.

Barry Plett, pastor of Blumenort EMC (Joe and Olga’s home church), gave a devotional. He said that the EMC should have a Missions Hall of Fame and that 16

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

Joe and Olga should be in it. However, he said that in Hebrews 11 (the Hall of Faith) the list of people moves from those named and known to others unnamed and unknown to us.

There are many people whose significance of witness is unknown, he said. Whether we are in the EMC Hall of Fame or serve in “relative obscurity,” we will be commended by Jesus for ministry for him.

We are to fix our eyes on Jesus, let go of distractions, and run with perseverance. Life is about perseverance, he said.

“Joe and Olga, the race isn’t over,” said Plett. “We’re just stopping to give you a pat on the back, but we must not stay here.”

Dr. Bob Blanchard, a TEAM representative, said TEAM began its ministry in South Africa in 1892; the first worker died in 1893. By 1894 there were numerous

PHOTO: TERRY M.

SMITH

initiatives happening, many of which Joe and Olga later example you have set,” said Tim. “Thank you very much became involved in. for the work you have done.” There was a round of Joe and Olga have served in five countries, applause.

Blanchard said. They began cross-cultural service in Joe said, “How do I respond to that? One of the Trinidad in 1973, and then served in Aruba for two or challenges that I have always had, when people express three years. They served in Zimbabwe, including during their appreciation, their thanks, is to not know how to the war of independence (Joe spoke up, accept that.” saying he was the last worker He thought it likely in Acts to be evacuated). After a 20 that people expressing their furlough in 1979, Joe and Olga thanks while saying farewell moved to South Africa. Later, to Paul. He considered it aptheir ministry branched into propriate that a parent accept a Mozambique. son-in-law’s thanks for raising By their count they had a daughter so well. “You have served in 71 churches in southpoured your life” into that ern Africa, with key roles in person, Joe said.

21—the latter they visited on a He quoted a Zulu saying farewell tour. that means when someone acts During a phone call, intentionally, they can grow Blanchard had asked Joe what as a person. “If that’s what it was the highlight of his ministry. means for somebody to say There had been silence on the thank you to us, then we want Luke Reimer, grandnephew to Joe other end. Finally Joe said he the grace to accept that”—to allow others and Olga, presented special music. had deeply appreciated working with to grow.

African pastors in day to day matters.

He said, “And so, again, I want to say Olga was with Joe and served as hostess, Blanchard thank you for those many kind words that don’t belong said. to us at all. They belong to the Spirit that led us for Bob closed with Jesus’ words to the first returning those 38 and a half years.” missionaries—the 72. Jesus told them, “I saw Satan fall,” He said they had “very fond memories of working yet they were not to rejoice at their authority, but that with the EMC” and would remember this evening. Olga their names were written in heaven. expressed her thanks in Zulu.

Anthony Reimer, Board of Missions member and Luke Reimer sang two more songs. nephew, remembered the influence Joe and Olga had on Ken Zacharias, EMC foreign secretary, then guided his childhood. The stories were exciting and he enjoyed in a time of corporate and small group prayer. People receiving presents from Africa. He respected how they shared ministry and personal needs. had stayed for 38 years, how Joe worked at solving Zacharias highlighted the efforts of conference problems. youth minister Gerald Reimer and Diana Peters, Joe Reimer’s work began in maintenance, spread to recently hired as an administrative assistant, in planconstructing church buildings, then to being a pastor, ning the evening. He closed in prayer and the gathering and finally to leading TEAM in South Africa. Such gifts ended. “don’t mysteriously disappear at 65, 70, or 80,” Anthony said, and the Reimers want to continue to serve.

They have been “ordinary people in God’s hands,” said Anthony, quoting the title of a book in which Evangelical Mennonite Conference Reimers are mentioned.

Quarterly Financial Report Tim Dyck then called Joe and Olga forward to Jan–Sept Jan–Sept receive gifts on behalf of the Board of Missions and 2011 2010 all of EMC “to express our deep appreciation for your Receipts and Transfers 1,255,030 1,370,358 faithfulness, commitment, your love for the people in Disbursements 1,362,058 1,261,874 South Africa and elsewhere, for the ministry that you Shortfall (107,028) 108,484 have done for 38 and a half years.”

“We are inspired and we are thankful for the

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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with our missionaries

It is harvest time!

Here at Continental Mission, we are also privileged to be a part of the harvest. Many people have been sowing the seed over the years and there is a harvest waiting to be brought in. Though its timing is less predictable, the harvest is real and so is the privilege and responsibility to be a part of it.

In “Bringing in the Sheaves” songwriter Knowles Shaw says more about sowing than he does about reaping, even though harvest is the focus of the song. We often feel that there is need for a lot of sowing, but we never want to lose sight of the reason for it and the harvest that is to come.

We continue to wrestle with the implications of our new Mission Statement: “Growing Christian Leaders in the North.” We are in the midst of finding a new full-time director who can lead us into the future God has in store for us. Your prayers and help are appreciated so much.

Ferlin Abrahamson

The church plant effort in Minga Guazú began about 18 months ago PARAGUAY and the garden is now at many different stages. In some areas the There are good reasons why starting ground is still being prepared, while a new church is called planting. Like in other parts some seeds have just in gardening, many different tools are been planted and other seeds have needed and much of the work needs begun to sprout. personal, hands-on involvement.

Some weeds have been pulled, New Christians do grow, mature, resulting in stronger plants that and produce fruit. There is also a lot are producing a little more fruit of waiting and patience involved. than before. In each of these stages, different tools are being used.

One of the tools that we used in the month of August to prepare the soil for planting was talks to junior and senior high school students in public and private schools in the area. An organization called Decisiones (Decisions) has published a magazine called Sexo: A typical night at Conexión, the teen drop-in centre in Minga Guazú.

un plan perfecto (Sex: a perfect plan) which they hand out to students in the schools after they hear a 90-minute talk on subjects contained in the magazine.

Based on Christian principles, the magazine and talk focus on the subjects of family, dating, love, sexuality, and marriage, as well as the consequences of not practicing abstinence until marriage. These are all topics that are of great interest to the young people, and the teachers are grateful for this free resource that gives a healthy perspective to a segment of society that they see are in great need.

Among 15- to 19-year-old girls in Paraguay, one-third had their first intimate relationship before the age of 16 and 10 per cent have been pregnant at least once. There has been a great demand for this presentation in the schools and we

MANITOBA Last evening I was reminded of one reason I get excited about being part of “bringing in the sheaves.” At dusk I was operating a combine in an area where many combines were busy and the harvest dusk hung like a thick blanket.

It is always a privilege to get involved in something that is so much bigger than us and yet feel that you are making a significant contribution. While the annual grain harvest is about “making a living,” more important to me is to participate in an activity that feeds the world.

PHOTOS: TRAVIS ZACHARIAS

The tools of gardening

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Ferlin Abrahamson (Birch River) is interim general manager of Continental Mission, Inc., a ministry mostly to First Nations peoples in Manitoba.

(continued p. 19)

with our missionaries (continued from p. 18)

have been able to organize these talks in 13 schools to more than 2,000 students.

We do not know yet how we will seed the ground that we have ploughed with these talks, and we probably will never seed all of it, but others might. When we combine this tool with other tools in the shed, the garden will be planted and the seeds will sprout.

Having a weekly presence in two junior high schools through teaching Crossroads, a character building course based on biblical principles from Campus Crusade for Christ, makes it possible to plant the seeds.

Conexión, our youth drop in centre, makes it possible to plant even more seeds, as well as water them. The weekly Bible studies and church service, as well as home visits during the week are other tools with other purposes.

Please continue to pray with the church planting team in Minga Guazú that God will give us the ability and wisdom to use the tools available and that He will grow His kingdom.

Travis and Rosey Zacharias Travis and Rosey Zacharias (Kleefeld) are workers in Paraguay.

Renita Rempel and Joanne Martens teach the Crossroads course in a local junior high school.

‘So how do you handle the violence?’

MEXICO God has taken me on a journey of believing in the life-changing power of Jesus. Going from spectator to participant doesn’t come without growing pains.

Jesus says, “If you love me, you will obey my commands.” When we began to work in a context of sharing the gospel to Mexicans, I began to realize how poorly I knew and obeyed God’s Word, how to make it relevant in different situations and even in my own life.

All Scripture is God inspired and useful, and also sharper and more effective than a double-edged sword.

But it doesn’t do you much good if you don’t know what it is, where it is, or how to use it.

When people hear that we’ve been living in northern Mexico, we get asked, ‘”So how do you handle the violence?” Not very well, I must say.

Danger was a reality. You hear people’s personal encounters, read the news, you feel its presence at times. It’s there.

Fear entered my life. It started small and became this huge weight on my shoulders and in my mind. It began to cripple me. I started viewing everyone and everything suspiciously.

Neil Anderson says that a Christian’s greatest battlefield is in the mind. The mind is a powerful thing.

The truths in his book Bondage Breaker were reaffirmed by an amazing passage of scripture, 1 Corinthians 2:16, where God was able to break through to me.

I needed to be transformed by the renewing of my mind. So what implication did this have in my life?

For one, I needed to realize that the Holy Spirit gives clarity in understanding Bible truths. Second, in Ephesians 6 it speaks of our salvation is our helmet, protecting our mind.

Another important act, as God began to give me victory, was to claim and believe the many great truths in Scripture. A principle that has really helped in conquering fear is to believe the Word of God and not to doubt the Scriptures.

Satan was deceiving me and did not want me believe the power of the Word living inside of me. I began to claim the promises such as, “Do not be afraid; I will be with you” and especially, “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

My mind is being transformed

by Christ. 1 Cor. 2:16 says that as a believer I have the mind of Christ.

As I claimed this promise, I began to have more victory in Jesus and be less fear-driven.

Yes, we lived in a relatively dangerous, volatile area. We took precautions, avoided certain routes and driving at dark; but ultimately we walk in confidence that we are sheltered under the protective wings of our Father God. In this journey, it has been an important reminder for me that Jesus, the Bread of life, is not only to be shared with others, it is also intended for us to experience personally.

LeRoy Siemens LeRoy and Faith Siemens (EFC Steinbach) recently relocated from Cuauhtémoc to Guadalajara, Mexico.

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with our missionaries

Sending children into the unknown MADAGASCAR

PHOTO: JOCELYN R. PLETT

From the moment we stepped off the plane into Madagascar over five years ago, I knew that schooling for our son was something that would require extensive planning and careful preparation of the heart.

Judah R. Plett on his first day of school.

At that time our firstborn, Judah, was four months old, and first grade seemed safely in the future. As most people with children know, time flies by and moments in time often catch you unawares.

Not ever having had the experience of sending my children to school in Canada, I don’t know firsthand how it feels to be able to send my child to a school I trust simply because we ourselves grew up with it.

From my perspective here, sending my child to a small-town, Englishspeaking elementary school where most people know each other, where I can count on quality teachers who teach a curriculum that is somewhat similar to what I remember, sounds so much less stressful than putting my son into a school where they will communicate in French, not any of our first or most fluent languages.

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

I’m not familiar with the French school system either—what their philosophies of learning are. I know they push the kids harder and are generally stricter here.

Despite the availability of Englishspeaking Christian private schools, we chose to send Judah to the French school. To be sure, weighing the options for schooling is different for every family, but for us, we grabbed at the chance to help our kids become truly bilingual.

It sounds great in theory, but while I struggled to read the parents’ notices in French, find the correct (and very specific) school supplies in French, and pondered my son’s ability to adapt to a foreign environment where he knew no one and spoke only mildly fluent French, I was acutely aware of the challenges that our choice would bring in actual practice.

Would I be able to communicate effectively with the teacher? Would Judah be able to keep up with the school work?

Once he does make friends, will I be able to talk with those who come over to play without looking like an

idiot? Will I be able to chat intelligently with parents of friends when I drop Judah off at a stranger’s home to play?

Will I correctly understand the parents’ notices that come home? Will we miss something important? The opportunities for confusion and feeling ill-equipped seemed endless the night before the first day of school.

We went as a family to drop Judah off that next morning. Me, the normal mom trying not to show my anxiety and Judah looking ill at ease as he realized the immensity of this new challenge that awaited him in the classroom.

My fears were unfounded though.

Judah adapted quickly, as he usually does, and I realize anew that, as in any new and challenging situation, we must just take one day at a time, discussing our trepidation with the Lord often and facing the unknown with confidence.

Jocelyn R. Plett Jocelyn and Josh R. Plett (Prairie Rose) serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship.

New workers in Guadalajara, Mexico LeRoy and Faith Siemens (EFC Steinbach) and their family have relocated from Cuauhtemoc, Mexico, to Guadalajara. They are joining John and Connie Reimer (team leaders) and Dallas and Tara Wiebe on the EMC church planting team in Guadalajara.

You can follow the Siemens’ ministry by reading their blog: visibletreasures.blogspot. com or by emailing them at visibletreasures@ gmail.com.

Ken Zacharias, Foreign Secretary

Faith and LeRoy Siemens, Emma, Logan, Brooklyn

with our churches

Church math MORWEENA EMC, Manitoba

T

im Reimer, who serves as a minister in our church as well as principal of Morweena Christian School, made this point in a recent sermon: God is good at addition (check Deuteronomy 1:10).

We have certainly found this to be true in the past eight months or so, as God has added to our church membership, and we are looking forward to more additions in the fall. We thank God for these members and the gifts they bring to our community of faith.

Janet Hamm

In November we welcomed by transfer: (front) Rey and Janice Plett, Conrey Plett, Jeremiah Plett, (middle) Peter and Helen Friesen, Samuel Plett, Kara Plett, (back) Kirk and Lori Abrahamson, and Henry and Margaret Friesen.

Chad McCue was also baptized on June 26; his wife Rhonda transferred her membership.

Josephine and Peter Williams were baptized and accepted into membership on June 26.

Roseisle EMC

invites everyone to its

50th anniversary celebration on Sunday, October 23.

Morning church service, lunch, and afternoon activities.

Contact us at 204-828-3242 or roseisleemc@gmail.com

weddings SCHELLENBERG – HILDEBRAND: Bob Schellenberg of Winnipeg, Man., and Elaine Hildebrand of Saskatoon, Sask., were married on May 21, 2011, in Saskatoon with Rev. Lorne Gieck of Cornerstone Mennonite Church (Saskatoon) officiating. The couple lives in Winnipeg.

Mandy Plett (shown here with husband Jon) was part of the group transferring their memberships in November.

EMCup Hockey Tournament November 11-13, 2011

TG Smith Centre, Steinbach, Man. Contact Cam Friesen, 204-371-0281 or cam.friesen@parkslivestock.com

by October 12 to register a team.

JACOBSON – SCHOLZ: David, son of David and Lorraine Jacobson of Winnipeg, Man., and Mandi, daughter of Michael and Carol Scholz of Winnipeg, were married on July 30, 2011, at Braeside EMC with Kim Stoesz officiating.

STEENBERGEN – KLASSEN: Henry Steenbergen of Red Deer, Alta., and Helga Klassen of Winnipeg, Man., were married on Sept. 17, 2011, in Winnipeg with Kim Stoesz officiating. The couple lives in Red Deer.

WIEBE – HALL: Barry Wiebe of Winnipeg, Man., and Charlotte Hall of Winnipeg were married on Aug. 28, 2011, in Winnipeg with Layton Friesen (Fort Garry EMC) officiating.

The couple lives in Winnipeg.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

21

with our churches

A season for every activity PRAIRIE ROSE EMC, Landmark, Manitoba is a time for everything, “There and a season for every activity

PHOTOS COURTESY EVA PETERS

under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

The seasons of the past year have marked many important activities and events in the life of our church.

September 19, 2010, marked the beginning of a new season for our church when Mike Plett became our newly installed pastor. Steinbach Christian High School ended their own season with Mike as their valued junior high teacher when he stepped back into familiar shoes at the Prairie Rose Church. Pastor Mike and his wife Deidre have three young children, Gillian, Nolan and Callum.

Receiving new members through membership transfer or baptism is a joyful season where newness of life is celebrated. Devin Ollinger was received into membership through transfer on December 12, 2010.

A new season began for Matt and Tanya Plett on March 20, 2011, when they accepted Matt’s new position as deacon in our church.

Graduation spelled the end of a season for some as various studies of value culminated and a new time began. Colin Peters, who ably served

Face painting at DVBS.

22

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

our church as interim pastor for the past two years while he studied at Providence Theological Seminary, graduated with a Master of Divinity degree in April 2011. His celebration was especially meaningful as most of the ministerial leaders with their spouses attended the ceremony and the meal that followed.

The church and community ladies enjoyed an evening of inspirational music, fun and entertainment with Rose and Anna Madden at their spring tea on April 11. Rose, the daughter of Ron and Violet Koop, passed on her love for music and singing to her daughter Anna and together they are using their gifts to bless and encourage others.

On April 30 Bruce Warkentin, our dedicated soundboard operator and son of Dan and Hilda Warkentin, married Anna Goertzen, daughter of Kevin and Victoria Goertzen from Aurora, Nebraska.

Congratulations are also passed on to those from our congregation who graduated from high school in June and have made or are making decisions about their future. They are Josh Bergen, Jessica Engbrecht, Jayelle Friesen, Megan Funk, Andrew James, and Candace Spence.

On May 8, 2011, Shania Doerksen, Jessica Hamm and Emily Plett were baptized. These young people spoke of God’s working in their hearts through meaningful testimonies and are continuing to serve conscientiously in various ways.

Another new season began for Vic and Eileen Engbrecht as two of their children were married and established homes of their

own. David Engbrecht exchanged marriage vows with Stephanie Andrews, daughter of Kevin and Karen Andrews of Blumenort on May 13, 2011, and Rachel Engbrecht was married to Devin Ollinger, son of Allan and Leila Ollinger of Winnipeg on June 4, 2011.

A.J. Reimer, son of Arnold and Cheryl Reimer, and Daphne Weber, daughter of Harold and Jessie Weber, became husband and wife on May 28, 2011.

Several young parents and their

Mike and Deidre Plett and family

children came forward for a parentchild dedication service on May 29 to affirm their position in the Christian nurture and training of their little ones. The parents with their children are as follows: Sean and Holly Bucholz with Aidan, Jeff and Elnora Hildebrand with Amelia, Ben and Larissa Johnson with Meika, Mark and Lisa Moesker with Elly, Caleb and Vanessa Funk with Levi, Kevin and Melissa Plett with Simon, and Peter and Stephanie Reimer with Brooke.

Jake Friesen, one of our ministerial leaders, coordinates a Men’s Ministry night out every second Tuesday of the month. Teaching and spiritual challenges as well as sharing and light-hearted fun (continued p. 23)

with our churches

activities (because there is a small boy in every man!) are all part of this exciting program.

On the weekend of June 3 the fathers with their sons went on their annual Boys’ Club Campout and spent a weekend fishing and hiking in the Whiteshell. Reports have it that the fish were delectably prepared by some exceptionally gifted and experienced chefs.

The guest speaker at our Deeper Life Services in May was Len Nation from Calgary, Alta. His personal testimony of great victory over childhood abuse and a lifestyle of addictions and criminal behavior inspired the congregation to listen closely to the topics he had chosen to speak on from Hebrews 10.

A warm and sunny day greeted

us for our church picnic on June 12. An outdoor worship service concluded with a barbecue lunch, visiting and entertainment for the children. It was a day of relationship building and praising God together.

SonSurf Beach Bash Colin Peters’ seminary graduation was celebrated by his family was the theme at Daily and ministerial members.

Vacation Bible School in to it and nothing taken from it. God early July. Learning how to Meet does it so that men will revere Him.” Up, to Look Up, to Join Up, to Open It is our goal that in the seasons Up and to Fire Up for Jesus was an of life our church’s activities and exciting experience for the kids events will reflect God’s glory, that who attended. Dookie, an acting in all these things honour and mute played by Gillian Plett, was a reverence be shown to God, our popular daily crowd pleaser.

Creator and our Redeemer.

Ecclesiastes 3:4 says, “I know Eva Peters that everything God does will endure forever, nothing can be added

Steinbach EFC’s sanctuary gets a new look EVANGELICAL FELLOWSHIP CHURCH, Steinbach, Manitoba

T

he physical sanctuary of Steinbach EFC has been receiving a new look—new carpets and more—in July and August.

It had been estimated that the preparation time involved in removing the pews, carpets and more would take two evenings.

With about 40 people of various ages showing up on July 25, the job was completed in about 90 minutes, according to Tim Dyck, except for advance work in removing baseboards.

While renovations were happening, the congregation held its

worship services in the basement.

On Aug. 18 in early afternoon there was a time of cleaning, including wiping the walls; later the benches were moved back into the sanctuary. The congregation resumed use of its sanctuary space on Aug. 21.

Ed and Ruth Anne Peters, our former pastoral couple, are serving in Thailand for four months. Their eldest child, Amy, is serving with the EMC (under MB Mission) for two years in Toyota City, Japan, in TESOL. Amy graduated with a BA from Providence College in April.

As our pastoral search continues, speakers have served from within and outside of the congregation. LeRoy Barkman and Darrel

Guenther have served as inside speakers; Barry Plett (Blumenort EMC) and SBC president Rob Reimer are among the outside speakers.

Cross-cultural workers serving in Paris, France, shared of their experiences and approaches on Aug. 14. On Sept. 11, 2011, EFC held a community barbecue.

Terry M. Smith

PHOTO COURTESY ERNIE KOOP

(continued from p. 22)

Volunteers worked hard to remove pews and carpet to prepare EFC’s sanctuary for renovation.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

23

with our churches

MENNVILLE EMC, Manitoba

G

race and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:2).

I am serving in Diriamba, Nicaragua, as a tutor for the four children of Wally and Esther Wiebe, a missionary couple. I got to know them during an EMC short-term missions trip at CINAG. I am currently here under EFCCM. I had been praying about the direction my life should be taking after two short-term missions trips, one to CINAG and one to Black Forest Academy (through Millar College of the Bible, where I attended one year).

When I got a call from Esther asking if I would be interested in coming to help them with home schooling so she could focus more on ministry alongside her husband, I felt very much at that time that this was where God wanted me to be.

So on Jan. 17, 2011, I left to do a one-year term. I love being here and almost feel sad when I think of leaving, though I do miss my family and friends a lot.

An update on my summer: it has been a busy one!

In June we celebrated Dia de Madres (Mother’s Day), Dia de Padres (Father’s Day) and Dia de Ninos (Children’s Day). So in good Nicaraguan fashion we had fiestas for each one. We celebrate with piñatas, cake and Rojito, which is the worst pop flavour in the entire world.

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

I also traveled to Costa Rica with Esther and the girls to renew my visa.

I had a really good time hanging out with them and experiencing a new country.

In July, I joined a work team that was here for two weeks. We built a church’s roof and completed the Sunday School classroom.

We also repainted a school for the La Semilla ministry.

Janette stands with a group that was in Nicaragua for two weeks: David (Alberta), Daniel (Alberta), Janette (Manitoba), Lisa (B.C.).

It was good to get to know the team members and build stronger relationships with some of the Nicaraguans that attend the services. We also did two BOAZ – to Jay and Sara Boaz, a son, Griffin weeks of school.

Allen, on Apr. 24, 2011.

In August I had the opportunity DUECK – to Trevor and Michelle Dueck to go to a school called Granada of Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Susanne Nicaragua Spanish School, a Louise, on July 20, 2011.

Spanish immersion school. I stayed KRASNIQI – to Vallon and Juanita Krasniqi with a Nicaraguan family while in of Lethbridge, Alta., a daughter, Isabella on Granada.

Aug. 18, 2011.

It was a great experience. I NEUDORF – to Abe and Becky Neudorf of learned quite a bit of Spanish, which Nobleford, Alta., a son, Salviano Justin, on was the reason for attending, but Aug. 30, 2011. also more about the history and PRIES – to Kendall and Sarah Pries of culture of Nicaragua.

Winnipeg, Man., a son, Andrew Mark, on Sept. 8, 2011.

Pray for me as I am winding down here. Pray that I would stay NEUSTAETER – to Henry and Sara Neustaeter of Coaldale, Alta., a daughter, focused on my job and that I would Alyssa, on Sept. 16, 2011. continue to learn and grow.

WIEBE – to John and Tina Wiebe of Picture Pray that I would not worry Butte, Alta., a son, Isaiah Kaden, on Sept. about my finances. Thank you to 22, 2011. all of you who have supported my ministry by praying for me and supporting me. God bless!

Janette Brandt Submitted by Luella Brandt

births

PHOTO COURTESY JANETTE BRANDT

Janette Brandt serves in Nicaragua

with our churches

Celebrating marriage, baptism, and community

J

ohn and Ellen Stoesz celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 30, 2011. This rare (in our present society) and joyous event was held at a local community club where guests joined John and Ellen in an afternoon “come and go” celebration.

Diamond anniversary couple John and Ellen Stoesz

John attended Mennonite Brethren Bible College intending to become a more effective volunteer at the local church that he and Ellen attended. His vocation as a school teacher changed to full-time church-related work when he was ordained in 1966 as a minister.

John and Ellen’s first church leadership assignment took them

Nathan Wiens (right) with youth pastor Brad Craig

to British Columbia. From there the Stoeszes moved to Winkler and then, in 1982, to Braeside where they served as leaders until 1993.

The phrase “full time retirement” is not in John and Ellen’s lexicon. After leaving the leadership position at Braeside, the Stoeszes assisted a small congregation in Ste. Adolphe, a village near Winnipeg.

It was also during this time that John accepted leadership of the Keenager Choir, a group of seniors who love to serve the Lord through singing. He continues in this position, but now shares leadership with another conductor.

Since 1982 John and Ellen Stoesz have been actively involved at Braeside. In retirement they have continued to support Braeside with their many gifts. We have been blessed by their presence, energy, dedication and example.

On August 13, 2011, Nathan Wiens was baptized by youth pastor Brad Craig in the rippled waters of Pinawa Bay. Nathan was leader in training at Camp Cedarwood for the entire summer.

Having someone baptized at the camp was a new and unique experience for all the staff at Cedarwood. Braeside welcomes Nathan as the newest member of our congregation.

Braeside held its second community carnival on Saturday, August 5, 2011. The weather was ideal and the parking lot was filled with people enjoying various activities: face painting, wild rides and obstacle courses, music by a worship team, visiting with and welcoming

Kids enjoyed the slide.

PHOTOS: AL DUECK

BRAESIDE EMC, Winnipeg.

Manitoba

Face painting

Pastor Angel Infantes gives a brave thumbs-up seconds before he was dunked in cold water.

members of the community.

Pastor Angel Infantes volunteered for repeated, good-natured dunking to raise funds for a proposed mission trip to Mexico for a group of Braesiders in 2012.

Hundreds of hot dogs were grilled and children particularly enjoyed the home-baked cookies.

Al Dueck THE MESSENGER | October 2011

25

with our churches

WESTPOINTE COMMUNITY CHURCH, Grande Prairie, Alberta

M

ichael, VTI team leader, reports on the recent trip to Costa Rica by a team from Westpointe Community Church in Grande Prairie: Pura vida! This is what they say in Costa Rica when asked how they are, how the day is going, how the meal was. It literally means, “Pure life” or in our lingo, “Totally awesome!” Costa Rica is such a beautiful country with such beautiful people, they are pura vida!

It was a privilege to be in Costa Rica with the team (14 youth and four leaders) from Westpointe for 10 days. We were able to assist the

church in La Fortuna (five hours from San Jose, the capital city) in a number of ways, including a mixture of outreach and practical work, visiting people in their homes, handing out Bibles and praying with people (one of the highlights of my time there).

During the door to door visits we invited the community to our program, to share how Zacchaeus had a life-changing meeting with Jesus. It was clear that we were “reaping” the church’s persistent, prayerful efforts.

For the first time, many people from the community came to the church’s outreach efforts. After the program, the younger children sat in one group to make a paper tree

Baptisms at RGC RIVERTON GOSPEL CHAPEL, Manitoba

J

oel Dyck, Trent Kroeker, Adison Kornelsen, Mike Morgan, and Jessica Dyck were baptized on the confession of their faith by Pastor Don Brynteson in the Icelandic River on August 21, 2011.

Our church, Riverton Gospel Chapel, was blessed and encouraged by the testimonies of these five individuals who obeyed Peter’s command in Acts 2:38 to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins. They shared their struggles, the work of God in their lives, and why they wanted to take the step of baptism.

26

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

craft with us, while older children made a bracelet to tell the wordless book story.

In the mornings, our team helped remodel an existing kitchen.

When we ate our meals inside, we knew first-hand why they wanted to “raise the roof ” so it would be cooler when groups come to eat.

Midday it was usually 100F (40C) inside. Even our cook left the kitchen because it was cooler to eat outside rather than inside.

I often felt the Lord’s encouragement and strength to face the full days in Costa Rica and upon returning now to Canada. It reminds me how He uses your prayers and gives help through His Spirit to face the day!

Michael Submitted by Katelyn Tarnowski

“Baptism tells the world that I am committed to Christ. I am getting baptized to show my devotion to the Lord and my fellowship.”

Randy and Sigi Hiebert

Some thoughts shared were: “Sometimes I feel worthless, but I know I am worth something to God. He is always with me...Scripture reassures me that I am forgiven.”

“God helps me through my ups and downs...I hate it when I mess up and when that happens I feel like God does not like me very much. Although I believed that God could forgive my sins, I still felt like a failure until the Holy Spirit helped me grasp God’s love and Five new members and their pastor: (back) Joel Dyck, Trent revealed to me that all Adison Kornelsen, (front) pastor Don Brynteson, Mike God wanted was for me to Kroeker, Morgan, and Jessica Dyck love Him back.”

PHOTO: RANDY AND SIGI HIEBERT

Costa Rica is pura vida!

news

150 golfers attend Project Builders tournament Projects chosen affect Winnipeg and Democratic Republic of Congo

PHOTOS: LEN BARKMAN

STEINBACH, Man.—It was a perfect day for golf—on Len Barkman noted the sacrificial giving the June 16, 2011, those were the words of Ron Penner, com- Congolese believers have provided in time and resources mittee chair for the 17 th Annual Project Builders Golf to complete the foundation and basic structure of this Tournament. large facility. PB will help with supWith memories of last year’s plies such as windows, doors and Project Builders is committed to rain-out, it had been with some roofing materials. supporting projects to help our trepidation that the organizers This facility is designed to serve EMC-associated missionaries studied the weather forecast. Their the conference of churches as a concerns were laid to rest, however, Bible training and resource centre and national churches to more as the day spent at the Steinbach complete with dormitories, kitchen, effectively communicate the Fly-In Golf Club turned out to be dining facilities and an auditorium love of Christ. sunny, warm, with a gentle breeze for large gatherings. and no signs of rain on the horizon.

PB is committed to supporting And the golfers came, one hundred and fifty strong, projects to help our EMC-associated missionaries and from across the province, as far west as Kola and north national churches to more effectively communicate the as Morweena. Enjoying the game of golf is always an im- love of Christ. We are truly grateful to the sponsors and portant part of the event, but it is certainly not the only golfers who annually make this a financially successful reason why people come together. and socially uplifting event.

The camaraderie and good-natured fellowship is To support projects such as these, we invite you to always seen as a highlight, together with support- become a Project Builders member. See www.projecting charitable endeavours promoted by EMC Project builders.ca for contact information.

Builders (PB). Just more than $26,000 was raised for the Len Barkman two projects designated to the golf tournament.

Kent Dueck, director of Inner City Youth Alive, expressed his heartfelt thanks for the support Project Builders has given over the years.

This year ICYA’s need for a 15-passenger van was highlighted, and half of the funds raised will go toward purchasing one. It will be used in transporting youth and supplies to the camp at Gem Lake as well as for local use in the ministries of ICYA. The other half will go toward construction costs of Golfers in action a Training Centre in Tshikapa, Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission churches will be celebrating 100 years of God’s faithfulness in the life of the church.

Radical Followers of Jesus DVD Produced by the Evangelical Anabaptist Fellowship of Canada, these DVDs can be obtained for $11.20 (plus shipping) from the EMC office (204-326-6401 or rroman@emconf.ca).

Registration

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

27

news

Stolen aid not whole story of disaster response Bigger story is many things that go right

WINNIPEG, Man.—As I read in August about stolen aid in Somalia, I thought: “Yep, right on schedule.”

The media begins with alarming reports of dire need, follows with encouragements for people to respond, along with stories of how people are being assisted. It then turns, with sad predictability, to stories about misappropriated aid.

The story said the UN’s World Food Program acknowledged it has investigated food theft in Somalia for two months, but that the famine crisis does not allow for a suspension of assistance.

Little aid actually gets stolen—most assistance gets to the needy. Any loss is regrettable, but aid groups know things can go wrong, especially where security is lax, when lawlessness abounds, corruption is rampant and guns are many.

the difficult circumstances facing aid groups during emergencies.

The media are vital to mobilizing Canadians and those of us who work in international relief and development appreciate their help. But articles about stolen aid can dampen enthusiasm for giving, and that would be unfortunate.

Nobody wants to see aid stolen—aid groups least of all. They don’t like it, but they know they can’t stop helping the vulnerable because some aid went missing.

John Longhurst John Longhurst directs Resources and Public Engagement for Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Go to www.foodgrainsbank. ca to learn how the CFGB is responding to the East Africa crisis. This article was condensed.

PHOTO: FRANK SPANGLER

When aid is stolen or is found for sale, the media’s focus is usually on what’s gone wrong. What’s more amazing is how much actually goes right.

Some aid for sale may have been sold by needy recipients to obtain cash to buy more food or other essential and needed items.

When aid is stolen or is found for sale, the media’s focus is usually on what’s gone wrong. What’s more amazing is how much actually goes right, considering Pastoralists in Somalia

More than Enough: My Breast Cancer Story

by Sherri Hildebrandt $18.99, 240 pp. can be ordered from the EMC national office (mailing extra) or www.sherrihildebrandt.com Sherri and her husband were previously involved in youth leadership at Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC).

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

Meditations

By Peter B. and his daughter, L. Marie This 550-page book (Guardian Books, 2010) has short meditations by father or daughter; many were previously published.

It is available from L. Marie Enns, Box 119, Rapid View, SK SOM 2M0 ($32, includes postage) or from essencebookstore.com.

news

Thanks expressed for East Africa donations $851,000 donated, but other countries also need help

A year that will change your life SALT is an intensely rich cross-cultural immersion experience for Christian young adults. Openings are currently available in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America/Caribbean and the Middle East.

Qualifications: participants must be single I 18 to 27 years old I Canadian or U.S. citizens I actively participating in a church I committed to non-violent peacemaking

apply at salt.mcc.org

Mennonite Central Committee ®

At the same time, he notes, East Africa isn’t the only place where people are in need of food assistance—this summer the CFGB also approved 19 projects worth $4.2 million in 11 other countries.

“Donations for those and other needs—which didn’t make the media—will also be important in the months ahead,” he says.

CFGB

PHOTO COURTESY CFGB

WINNIPEG, Man.—Over $851,000—that’s how much had been donated to Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) for east Africa drought relief by September 16, the deadline for the Canadian government’s matching program.

“We are grateful for this outpouring of generosity” says Jim Cornelius, CFGB’s executive director. “The donations will help us provide food and other assistance to many people in that region.”

In addition to many individual donations, the CFGB benefited from fundraisers such as a radio-athon put on by Manitoba’s CBC Radio One 89.3 FM that raised over $105,000, a Facebook challenge organized by two Winnipeg sisters that raised $2,700, and a fair held by a B.C. church that raised $13,000.

Together with support from the Canadian “We are grateful for this International Development outpouring of generosity” Agency (CIDA), the CFGB says Jim Cornelius, CFGB’s has committed $8.8 million of assistance for executive director.

270,000 people in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia.

“We expect that figure to grow,” says Cornelius. “The needs in the region are great, and the effects of this drought will last a long time.”

Tamara (with daughter Maelle) and Johanna Petkau, a pair of sisters from Winnipeg who challenged their friends, colleagues, and family to give something up in support of East Africa.

Dealing with Traumatic Stress in Ministry taught by Chris Marchand

Whether you work in the church or the community, you know that caring for others in crisis takes its toll on you.

Why do so many caregivers have high levels of stress and burnout? This course will give you a biblically informed self-care strategy that may extend your ministry or work life.

November 17–19, 2011 Thursday 7:00–9:45 pm, Friday 7:00–9:45 pm, Saturday 9:00 am–4:00 pm mcc.org I 1-888-622-6337

Visit www.SBCollege.ca for more info or to register.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

29

news

Child-centred preschool bolsters Batwa education

PHOTO COURTESY: JODI MIKALACHKI

MCC assists Hope School in Burundi AKRON, Pa.—New child-centred teaching child-centered. Rows of desks were The Batwa feel proud that replaced with low tables, chairs and for preschoolers and the continued growth of they, despite their poverty floor mats. Preschoolers engage in Hope School are improving opportunities for the Batwa, an ethnic group in Burundi that crafts, games and other activities and few numbers, are has historically been pushed to the bottom rather than gaze at a blackboard. providing a quality school rung of society.

Historically hunter-gatherers, to their community.

The Batwa represent one percent of the the Batwa gradually lost their population in Burundi, and director Béatrice forest home to farmers, to governMunezero founded its only school in 2001 to empower ments and even wealthy individuals in search of gold. her people through education.

Landlessness has left the Batwa at the bottom of the MCC Global Family education sponsorship program social heap, impoverished, illiterate, their traditions has supported the school with funds for teacher support looked down upon. and training, as well as some material resources. Hope The Batwa feel proud that they, despite their poverty School is located in Nyangungu Hill. and few numbers, are providing a quality school to their Jodi Mikalachki, MCC worker from Cambridge, Mass., community, Mikalachki added. has helped Munezero make its preschool program more Ninth-grader Claude Mbonimpa said he hopes his education will allow him to help other Batwa.

The school, started 10 years ago, has added one classroom and grade level a year. The school’s success gives hope that the Batwa eventually will be accepted and able to contribute to their country.

Emily Will, MCC

An MDS update Jodi Mikalachki, a former MCC worker in Burundi, helps Gakobwa Bélize, a student in Hope School’s preschool, to find the number one on the ground.

SBC’s 75th Celebrations

Celebrations will include complimentary dinner or dessert, sharing of SBC stories and raising funds for additional dorms.

Friday, Oct. 21 Grande Prairie, AB Sunday, Nov. 6 Landmark, MB Saturday, Oct. 22 La Crete. AB Friday, Nov. 18 Swift Current, SK Saturday, Nov. 19 Calgary, AB

For more details, contact Steinbach Bible College at 1-800-230-8478 Watch for more Ontario & Manitoba (including Winnipeg) dates in 2012

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

• Scheduling for Fall Projects is open. We are now scheduling short-term groups for Birmingham, AL, New Orleans, LA, and Minot, ND, from Oct. to Dec. Call 866-261-1274 in Canada.

• MDS investigators connected with local officials up and down the East Coast to determine how and where MDS will respond to the damage from Hurricane Irene.

• Requests for assistance continue to come in from various locations. As needs become known, volunteer teams will be dispatched.

• If you would like to volunteer, contact your church MDS contact person, or call the Binational Office for the contact person in your area.

MDS

news

Foodgrains Bank commits additional $300,000 to East Africa Total assistance now $8.8 million; over 270,000 people in region to receive food

IDOP is Sunday, November 13, 2011 OTTAWA, Ont.—Today around the world over 200 million are suffering for their faith in Jesus Christ. Each year, Christians in over 130 countries stand in prayer with our persecuted sisters and brothers through the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP).

Join with us as Christians across Canada unite in prayer for our brothers and sisters who suffer because they declare their faith in Christ.

This year’s IDOP Canada theme is Victorious in Christ. Resources available at www.IDOP.ca focus on that theme, which is based in Revelation 2:3 and 7.

IDOP

provides an annual grant of $25 million to the CFGB. Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 churches and church agencies working together to end global hunger. Together with matching support from CIDA, the Foodgrains Bank has provided over one million tonnes of food assistance to people who are hungry since 1983.

Donations for east Africa drought response can be made by visiting www.foodgrainsbank.ca, calling 800665-0377, or sending a cheque to Box 767, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2L4.

CFGB

PHOTO: CRWRC

WINNIPEG, Man.—An additional $300,000 in food assistance has been committed by Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) to help people suffering from drought in east Africa.

The project will provide two months of emergency food rations for 19,600 people in Somalia.

The new project brings to $8.8 million the total amount of assistance being provided by the Foodgrains Bank. The funds are being channelled through CGFB member agencies Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, Canadian Lutheran World Relief, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries and Mennonite Central Committee, for projects in Somalia, Kenya, and Ethiopia.

In addition to emergency food relief, some of the money will also be used for a food-for-work program in Kenya, where CFGB member agency MCC supports sand dam projects that help communities capture rainwater that is usually lost in flash floods. This water can then be used for irrigation.

Some of the food is also going to pastoralist communities, who rely on livestock for their living, and who have been particularly hard hit by the crisis.

To date, $635,000 has been donated to the CFGB for East Africa. The donations are matched by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), which

Receiving food in Eastern Kenya

MWC begins talks with SDA SILVER SPRING, Maryland (USA)—Representatives of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and the Mennonite World Conference held the first of several theological conversations June 28 to July 1, 2011 at the world headquarters of the 17 million-member Seventh-day Adventist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland.

For four days representatives of both world communions exchanged ideas and perspectives centering on the theme of Living the Christian Life in Today’s World.

After each group presented an overview of the history of their communion, papers were also presented by each group on the topics of peace, non-violence and military service; discipleship and non-conformity; health, healing/salvation and ecology; and the nature and mission of the church.

MWC

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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in memory calendar

Minola Kroeker 1937–2011 Minola Kroeker went home to be with her precious Saviour on Saturday, July 23, 2011, at the age of 74 years. She passed away peacefully with her family at her side at the Steinbach Bethesda Hospital.

Minola was born to Dick B. and Anne Eidse on Feb. 28, 1937, in Rosenhoff, Man. She accepted Jesus as her Saviour as a teenager and was later baptized upon the confession of her faith.

Minola married Peter F. Kroeker on Aug. 12, 1962. She is survived by her husband Peter; two daughters, Gailene (Michael) Rauser, Lorraine; one son, David (Freda); and one grandson, Jamieson Rauser. She was predeceased by one daughter, Lorna May, in infancy and one daughter, Brenda, in 2008.

Minola was a very kind, compassionate, caring and fun-loving individual. She was easy to talk to because she was a very good listener.

Minola had a great sense of humour.

She usually had a smile on her face and was ready to laugh.

It brought her great joy when the whole family would gather together for special occasions. The family was her life.

Minola was a nurse, spending the last 14 years of her career at Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach, Man. She was a great caregiver.

Up until approximately three

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weeks ago, we thought Mom was fairly healthy. She was diagnosed with incurable liver cancer on July 15, 2011.

Thankfully, Mom didn’t have to suffer too long before the Lord took her home.

We as a family would like to thank Drs. Assaad, Van Der Byl, Toews, and Christianson, and all the nursing stuff at the Bethesda Hospital. Thanks to all our family and friends who upheld us in prayer, provided meals, sent flowers, etc.

Her funeral service was held on July 27, 2011, at 2 p.m. at Steinbach EMC, with pastors Allan Dueck and Glen Koop officiating. Interment was at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, Man. Her Family

British Columbia Nov. 19: MCC BC Annual Meeting, Clearbrook Public Library, Abbotsford, 604-850-6639, bc.mcc.org

Alberta no events currently

Saskatchewan Nov. 4–5: MCC Saskatchewan Encounter and Annual General Meeting, Eigenheim Mennonite Church, register at sk.mcc.org or 306-665-2555

Manitoba Oct. 14: Everything Old is New Again: Communication and Fundraising in the Digital World, Going Barefoot communicators’ conference, keynote speakers: Bill Roberts and Owen Charters, Canadian Mennonite University, Winnipeg, dbalzer@cmu.ca Oct. 21–22: Anti-Modern Pathways: Horse and Buggy Mennonites in Canada, Belize and Latin America, hosted by the Chair in Mennonite Studies, University of Winnipeg, mennonitestudies.uwinnipeg.ca Oct. 23: Roseisle EMC 50th anniversary, morning service, lunch, afternoon activities, all are welcome, RSVP to 204828-3242 or roseisleemc@gmail.com

Michael (Mike) Martiniuk February 28, 1930–July 20, 2011

After a short battle with cancer, Michael (Mike) Martiniuk passed away peacefully at the Arborg Hospital, in Manitoba’s Interlake region, on Wednesday, July 20, 2011.

His life touched many in the Interlake region and beyond. He was a part of Mennville EMC for years.

Mike will be dearly missed. A service to celebrate his life was held at the Mennville EMC on Monday, July 25, 2011.

It was Mike’s desire to be with Jesus and to be involved in music in Heaven.

His friends

Nov. 4–5: Why Peace, When You Can Have War? Evangelical Anabaptist Fellowship of Canada fall conference, speaker: Paul Alexander, Winkler, eafellowship@gmail. com, www.anabaptists.ca Nov. 11–13: EMCup Hockey Tournament, TG Smith Centre, Steinbach. Teams to register by October 12, Cam Friesen, 204371-0281, cam.friesen@parkslivestock.com Nov. 15–17: RE:CALL, National Church Planting Congress, Calvary Temple, Winnipeg, www.thecongress.ca. EMCers planning to attend should advise the EMC office, 204-326-6401 or efehr@emconf.ca

Ontario Nov. 12: MCC Ontario Annual Conference, Knox Presbyterian Church, 630 Spadina Ave, Toronto, 519-745-8458, ontario.mcc.org

Other Nov. 3–6: Business as a Calling – Enduring Values, Lasting Impact, MEDA annual convention, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 800665-7026 or businessasacalling.org

shoulder tapping Pastoral positions Are you a Spirit-led leader? A lover of God and of people? Do you have a passion for prayer and a Kingdom vision? If so, the Evangelical Fellowship Church (EFC) in Steinbach, Man., is interested in hearing from you. We are seeking an individual to serve as senior pastor to a congregation of 200. The senior pastor would have primary responsibility for preaching and would provide overall spiritual leadership to the congregation. Please contact Trevor Arsenault at 204-346-0302 or efcsearch@gmail. com.

Morweena EMC of Morweena, Man., is currently searching for an interim pastor to serve a congregation of about 250. We are located in the Interlake near Arborg, roughly 140 kilometers north of Winnipeg. Responsibilities would include preaching, visiting and caregiving, working with the existing ministerial group in event planning and helping to facilitate/envision some administrative restructuring. The church is offering a parsonage adjacent to the church for the duration of the interim pastor’s stay. For information please contact Sid Dueck at 204-364-2476 (h), 204-364-2442 (w), or sid.dueck@ vidir.com.

Youth work Mennville EMC and Riverton Gospel Chapel (EMC), in Manitoba’s Interlake region, seek a full-time youth pastor for a joint youth group. Candidate should have strengths in relationship building and have an ability to plan a comprehensive youth program. Contact Paul Peters at 204-378-2740 or paulhecla@yahoo.com.

Other opportunities MCC Ontario invites applications for the position of operations director, Kitchener, Ont. This position requires a person with a commitment to Christian faith, active church membership and non-violent peacemaking.

The operations director will give over all leadership to the practical and administrative functions of MCC Ontario including finances, insurance and risk management, physical resources, information technology and general office management, and will serve on the leadership team, reporting to the executive director.

This full-time salaried position begins December 2011. Application deadline: October 10, 2011. Complete job description available on MCC’s website at www.mcc.org/serve. To apply send cover letter and resume to Cath Woolner at cathw@mennonitecc.on.ca.

MDS seeks a full-time Region V manager immediately. The manager works out of the MDS Canadian office in Winnipeg, Man., supervising two staff persons, managing the office, overseeing Region V disaster response in Canada and USA (through binational office), and coordinating promotion of MDS in Canada.

The Region V Manager works closely with the Region V board executive and carries out their work plan.

The right person will have knowledge of the Anabaptist constituency, strong communication skills, proven leadership experience, and a vision for growing this ministry. The applicant will fully embrace the Anabaptist faith and peace position.

Experience with a non-profit or volunteer agency is an asset. Post-secondary education is required. MDS Region V employs only Canadian citizens and those non-Canadian citizens authorized to work in Canada.

Mennonite Disaster Service is a volunteer network of Anabaptist churches that responds in Christian love to those affected by disasters in Canada and the U.S. While the main focus is on clean up, repair and rebuilding homes, this service touches lives and nurtures hope, faith and wholeness.

Email resume with a cover letter to jobs@mds. mennonite.net. To view the full job description, go to mds.mennonite.net/about-us/employment.

Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Cedarwood (www.cedarwood-yfc.com) is looking to fill the positions of year-round head cook(s) and maintenance. We are looking for dedicated staff who have a heart to serve in a camp environment.

Cedarwood is owned and operated by Youth for Christ-Winnipeg. We are located 115 km NE of Winnipeg near Lac du Bonnet, Man., on Pinawa Bay. During the summer we run eight weeks of junior and senior high camps. Throughout the rest of the year we host various school outdoor education programs, church retreats and other rental groups.

Housing is available and most food is provided.

For information contact Bernie Peters at 204-3458529 or campsite@yfcwinnipeg.ca.

The EMC Church Planting Task Force with the Board of Leadership and Outreach is beginning the process of calling a Canadian Church Planting Coordinator.

The Church Planting Coordinator encourages church planting initiatives, provides support and guidance to new churches and church planters, and encourages links between them and the conference family.

Qualifications of the Church Planting Coordinator are: • passionate and committed Jesus follower • understanding of and appreciation for Anabaptism

Countess Place, a residential group home for teen girls in Portage la Prairie, Man., is looking for energetic, motivated Christ followers to serve as group home workers. Live your faith as you serve girls aged 12–17, their friends, community, and other young adults (ages 15–25) who drop in. CP is a Christian non-profit organization that runs a group home licensed by the province of Manitoba.

Be the hands of Jesus in all aspects of their care.

Join the team as we program for their activities, life skills training, education plan, spiritual journey and community building.

Currently the schedule is being modified to include full-time, part-time, weekends, or nights.

Minimum requirements are to have or obtain a current driver’s license, criminal record check, child abuse registry check, level “C” first aid.

Be paid to minister; wages based on experience. This will stretch you and test your faith.

Come prepared to be challenged and grow in your understanding of the faithfulness of God (http:// countessplace.webplus.net/index.html).

Contact: Donna Moman, countessplace@ gmail.com.

The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards and ministries; interMennonite 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.

• administrative/pastoral experience • interest in Canadian culture • demonstrated entrepreneurial skills • willing and able to travel • able to empower • strong listening skills • well-developed people skills For a full job description call the E.M. Conference office at 326-6401 or email efehr@ emconf.ca.

To speak to someone about this role, contact the search committee: Peter Dueck 204364-2442 (peter.dueck@vidir.com), Stephanie Unger 204-779-2888 (sunger@shaw.ca), or Randy Fehr 519-773-9021 (tpmconglomorate@ gmail.com).

Resumes can be submitted to CPC Search Committee, 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 or to any search committee member.

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pictures of god

by Joanna Enns

Temporary residents

M

PHOTO: DREAMSTIME.COM

y husband and I spent We also spent money on the put down more permanent roots the summer with friends future we hoped for. Although we in Toronto. “Dear friends,” writes and family in Kansas would have loved to save our money, Peter, “I warn you as ‘temporary while we waited for his Canadian we never hesitated to dish it out residents and foreigners’ to keep visa, which was supposed to arrive for application fees, doctor visits, away from worldly desires that wage by the beginning of June. As we postage and lawyer fees, hoping war against your very souls” (1 Peter struggled through the instability that each dollar spent would bring 2:11). and uncertainty of this unexpected us one step closer to our home in After finding an apartment, delay, we developed different values Canada. unpacking the car and our becomin relating to people and possesFinally, our temporary status ing permanent fixtures at the local sions because we knew our stay was kept us from getting too attached Canadian Tire, our house is finally temporary. to our life in Kansas. When we starting to feel like home. The chalNot knowing how long it would finally got the go-ahead to leave for lenge now is to apply the principles be before we would see many of our Canada, it took us less than three we learned this summer to our new, Kansan friends and more stable, existence. family members again, As temporary we focussed our time residents in semion relationships. We permanent location, went out of our way to we need to continue connect with people to keep relationships As temporary who had built into our at the forefront. It is residents in t n e lives and marriage. easy to get caught up esid a ry r semi-permanent r o p We also looked in the busyness of t em for opportunities to “success,” of earning location, we need invest in people’s lives. good money or good to continue to We spent quality time grades at the expense keep relationships with the youth in the of building good church and with our relationships. at the forefront. nieces and nephews, Even as we put and we looked for down roots, we need ways to bless and to keep ourselves from encourage them. getting too attached to Our temporary the things that make status also influenced our house a home and how we spent our money. Instead days to clean up our household, that make us feel secure. As long as of stocking a house, we borrowed pack our goods into our trusty we keep God as our ultimate future furniture and dishes, and spent Sunfire, say our goodbyes and set off and our surest security, we will be money on relationships. for a new life in Toronto. able to live intentionally with the Restaurant tabs and fuel receipts Although this was a very diffuture in mind and be willing to filled our wallets as we drove ficult summer for us, the principles set off with confidence on the next around the countryside to visit and we learned as temporary residents journey God has for us at any time. meet up with friends and family. are good reminders for us as we

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THE MESSENGER | October 2011

stewardship today

by Sherri Grosz

Marriage and money

Spenders can resent savers for being miserly and denying their desires. Savers can resent spenders for endangering their financial health and future.

and saving decisions are filtered through the needs and wants of both parties and measured against the overall goals of the couple. Trust is built and the marriage is much more likely to weather challenges.

When spenders and savers collide, the fireworks start.

Spenders can resent savers for being miserly and denying their desires. Savers can resent spenders for endangering their financial health and future.

Savers may squirrel away money as protection against an uncertain future. Spenders may keep purchases secret in order to prevent fights.

It’s a no-win situation where trust is lost and both parties feel they have been wronged and misunderstood.

One young man told me that when he and his wife were engaged, they were invited to share a meal with an older couple in their congregation. After the meal, the older couple shared their process for making financial decisions, and how they determined priorities, including charitable giving.

This young man said he was amazed at how transparent and helpful the conversation had been.

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

W

hen I was engaged and focused on planning a wonderful wedding day, my mother reminded me that weddings don’t make a marriage. As exciting as the wedding day may be, it’s the days and years that follow that should really be the focus of our plans.

Would you be surprised to learn that many engaged folks don’t actually talk about money or finances before the big day? And if they do, it’s likely to be a conversation limited to the wedding budget.

Pastors and parents may be uncomfortable talking about money, so couples are often left on their own to sort it out—or fight it out.

Yet money is often listed as one of the leading reasons for separation and divorce and it’s a common area of fights and disagreements.

We tend to have either saver or spender characteristics. Both have positive traits and, when combined, create a healthy, balanced view of money.

Savers are anxious about money.

They tend to hesitate and look for the cheapest option when they must spend money.

Spenders, on the other hand, are carefree and optimistic about money. They know it will all work out somehow and like to have fun.

Savers need spenders to help them have some fun and enjoy indulgences. Spenders need savers to help stretch budgets and consider the future.

When they work together, there is balance and health. Spending

“But at the beginning of creation God made them male and female.

For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:6-9).

As the church, we should be doing everything we can to ensure that marriages are built on the best foundation. That includes open and honest conversations about debt, saving, charitable giving and how to make financial decisions as a couple.

How does your church help engaged and married couples begin money conversations?

Sherri Grosz is a stewardship consultant at the Kitchener, Ont., office of Mennonite Foundation of Canada.

MFC, a non-profit organization, provides stewardship education and estate and charitable gift planning for no cost. Contact your nearest MFC office or visit Mennofoundation.ca.

THE MESSENGER | October 2011

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kids’ corner

by Loreena Thiessen

Activity: Make a thankful jar.

I

t’s easy to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day. A juicy turkey roasts in the oven and turkey smells fill the air.

At dinner you fill your plate with slices of its white meat along with mashed potatoes and gravy. Dessert is spicy pumpkin pie.

You get a holiday from school.

You remember to be thankful.

After Thanksgiving you’re back at school and you may have homework or chores to do. You have soccer practice or skating.

You’re busy. Some days you feel tired. You may have a bad day.

Perhaps you didn’t win the game. Maybe someone ignored you or said something nasty; you feel hurt. Being thankful is harder. Or maybe you just forget.

What can you do to be more thankful when it’s not Thanksgiving Day? You can start when you wake up each morning. As you get ready and eat your breakfast think of one person who has made your life better.

Is it your mom or dad, your grandparent or a teacher? What has that person done for you?

If you have a bad day, think of one good thing that usually makes you happy, feel good or safe. Is it your home or family, or a friend?

If you feel like being angry at someone, can you think of one good thing about that person? He may have made you laugh in the past.

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If you feel you want to criticize or blame someone for something that went wrong or they forgot to do, calm yourself down and think of something positive instead. Look around.

Is the sky a beautiful cloudless blue? Can you hear the robin singing? Maybe your mom has just made your favorite chocolate chip cookies!

If you find you’re about to complain, think of something you can be thankful for. Maybe your best shirt is dirty, but you have another one equally nice to wear today.

You face a challenge, a difficult thing to do, a page of math homework, or an essay to write and you know it will take much of your time.

Think of it as a chance to do it well, or better than before.

Is there something you don’t have, or it got lost or broken, think of something you do have and value, not complain about what you don’t have.

Read Philippians 4:6 and 8. Be thankful and think about those things that are true, and right and beautiful.

What to do: Cut one blank paper sheet into strips of 2.5 cm by 7 cm.

You should get approximately 21 strips. If you need more, use two sheets of paper.

On each strip print the name of someone or something you are thankfu for.

Place all strips in the jar.

Each day take out one strip.

Think about why you are thankful for that person or thing. Tell that person or someone you choose why you are thankful.

Include a family member or friend to share your thankful jar.

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS.COM

How to be thankful

What you need: • a clean plastic peanut butter jar, one litre in size • blank printing paper, one or two sheets • scissors • pencil, pen or felts

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main St, Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 Registration #09914