The Messenger January 2019

The Messenger Our Father in Heaven a publication of the

Evangelical Mennonite Conference

Volume 57  No. 1 January 2019

page 6

ALSO INSIDE:

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Paul: From Despair to CrossShaped Courage page 10 Being Restored page 13 National Meetings page 25

Editorial

Using Google Without Getting Lost

P

astors Mike Funk and Garry Koop are thoughtful people with a genuine concern. Put another way: when it comes to Christian Education in our churches, is the EMC at risk of getting lost on Google?

Mike Funk, when a youth pastor at Ridgewood EMC, wanted to see the EMC develop a Sunday School curriculum that would be standard across our churches. Garry Koop, senior pastor at Steinbach EMC, recently sought to develop a Sunday School curriculum based on our EMC Statement of Faith to serve a range of ages. Both have sound desires as pastors: to assist our churches in Sunday School.

The Internet allows EMC pastors to search out all sorts of materials. Our leaders will evaluate and use them as they see fit. The EMC can no more compete with all that’s available there than our few offerings for sale can compete with what’s on Amazon. Yet something is missing if a person listens to an online sermon instead of sitting in a congregation; something else is missed if materials specifically designed for our churches are overlooked.

We can’t produce a lot of materials, but this makes the ones developed more significant. The reality is that from idea to completion, a Sunday School quarterly could take two to three years to complete; and this does not begin to cover a range of ages (nor provide a new quarterly for a few months down the road or next year).

The EMC is too small to cover all of its bases—in people power, time, and finances.

Recognising this, we assist churches in three ways: we develop occasional materials, suggest where Anabaptist materials might be found, and recommend that pastors and teachers adjust the materials they use to reflect Evangelical Anabaptist concerns.

As for quarterly materials, working with the CMC and EMMC, the EMC recently produced Holy Wanderings: A Guide to Deeper Discipleship (2019) and a new baptismal/membership guide Living in God’s Kingdom (2016). By the way, The Christian Life: A Practical Study Guide remains available for leaders and churches who prefer it. Earlier, in 2006, the EMC produced Follow Me: Exploring More of Our Calling as Christians; the material remains relevant and free copies are available.

How much of this material has your church used?

For wider sources of Anabaptist materials, pastors and Sunday School superintendents might check out

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materials produced by MennoMedia, Christian Light Publications, and The Meeting House (the BICC mega-church in Ontario). Fort Garry EMC has produced materials on our ancient-modern faith.

As for recommending that pastors and teachers adjust the materials they use to reflect Evangelical Anabaptist concerns, in the end the decision is made by the leaders.

Individual churches and the conference as a whole place a great deal of trust in our leaders’ abilities to discern and sift. We do this within a framework of a shared Statement of Faith and a commitment to work together as a conference. May the Lord guide us well.

– Terry M. Smith

The Internet allows EMC pastors to search out all sorts of materials.

Table of Contents Features

Columns

6

5

Our Father in Heaven – Dr. Arden Thiessen

page

17

A Reader's Viewpoint Go And Do Likewise – Adam Harris

10 Paul: From Despair to CrossShaped Courage 16 Disciples' Journey – Arlene Friesen

13 Being Restored – Irene Ascough

Departments 2 Editorial 3 Pontius’ Puddle 17 With Our Missionaries 21 With Our Churches 25 News 32 In Memory

Youth Ministry: A High Calling – Gerald D. Reimer

34 People Of Faith

My Dad Looked for the Best in Everyone – Betty Koop

35 Stewardship Today

page

20

Just Imagine – Sherri Grosz

36 Kids’ Corner

Something Old, Something New – Loreena Thiessen

33 Shoulder Tapping

page

25

page

22

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 3

The Messenger

News

Volume 57 No. 1 January 2019

Opportunities with EMC Missions EDITOR TERRY M. SMITH tsmith@emconference.ca

ASSISTANT EDITOR ANDREW WALKER awalker@emconference.ca

Submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconference.ca.

The Messenger is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. 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.

It is published 12 times per year, six in print (also online at www.issuu.com/emcmessenger) and six in a website format at www.emcmessenger.ca. To get the most out of The Messenger, viewing both versions is encouraged.

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., and is a member of Meetinghouse and Canadian Church Press.

Subscription rates (under review) 1 year print subscription $20 ($26 U.S.) Manitoba residents add 8% PST. Single print 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 available for free to all online at: www.emcmessenger.ca If you wish to sign up for our email newsletter. Pleaase contact Andrew at: awalker@emconference.ca. Digital copies are free.

Change of address and subscriptions 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@emconference.ca www.emconference.ca/messenger Second-class postage paid at Steinbach, Manitoba.

ISSN: 0701-3299 Publications Mail Agreement Number: 40017362 Advertising The Messenger does not sell advertising, but provides free space (classified and display) to enhance our Conference, its churches, boards, and ministries; inter-Mennonite agencies and educational institutions; and the wider church. Ads and inquiries should be sent to messenger@emconference.ca.

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Short-Term Missions

Long-Term Missions

Ascend Internship Is God stirring your heart towards missions? Get a comprehensive understanding of EMC Missions and prepare for future service. You will work alongside career missionaries and get a context in which to develop your gifts in outreach, leadership, intercession and discipleship.

Bolivia Have a passion for Low German people? Help fill the need for more workers in Bolivia! The breakdown in religion and education has left many in this area in great poverty. We are partnering with others in bringing new hope through intentional discipleship, education and economic development. Languages to learn/ know: Spanish and Low German.

Bolivia Interested in teaching in a cross-cultural setting? Two schools, one in Villa Nueva and one in Hacienda Verde, are in need of teachers for the coming year. Many students come from academically impoverished groups, such as Low German Mennonites from the colonies. These schools were started to address the need for better education and are growing and thriving.

Prayer Team Are you passionate about prayer ministry? Discover the power of prayer and worship in a cross-cultural setting. Pray with our EMC missionaries and local believers as together we seek to strategically advance Christ’s Kingdom as God envisions it.

Purpose and Disclaimer The Messenger is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith. Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

Board of Church Ministries

Canada Be part of a church planting team!

We are looking for individuals and couples with a vision for church planting. Requirements: long hours, persistence, cheerful attitude, fervent prayer, team spirit. Rewards: seeing God at work, fellowship, adventure.

Guadalajara Are you interested in being part of a team seeking to reach Guadalajara, Mexico, for Christ? Use your gifts and skill sets to build relationships with nationals and be Jesus with skin on.

Languages to learn/know: Spanish.

Archives Volunteer Sought A volunteer is needed to describe and catalogue the EMC Archives collection at the Mennonite Heritage Archives in Winnipeg. The task is to prepare archival descriptions using the Rules for Archival Description (RAD). Training in using RAD will be provided by MHA staff.

Work would need to be done during Archives business hours (weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Contact the EMC National Office.

Column • A Reader's Viewpoint

Go And Do Likewise

L

ove one another.

This is the command Jesus gave throughout the gospels.

Jesus modeled how to love others and as followers of Christ. We should do the same. Jesus stated love for one another as a part of the greatest commandment (Matt. 22:39). Loving others is what marks the life of a true disciple of Christ.

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by Adam Harris

Love For God, Love For Others

You will notice that I did not touch on the first part of the greatest commandment: To love God (Matt. 22:37-38). That is because I wanted to expand on that a bit more. Love for God is essential if we truly want to love others. God has loved us with an everlasting love. He sent His one and only Son to die for us (John 3:16). His one and only! If that doesn’t show the magnitude of God’s love for us I don’t know what else does.

If I had an only son and had to give him up for the lives of total strangers I don’t think I could do that. Because He loved us so much we should in turn love and devote ourselves to Him. Our devotion to God is evident in our love for others.

Both loving God and loving others are interchangeable. When we love God we will love others; and when we love others will love God because God loves people. God’s love for people was evident when He sent His Son to die for our sins, and He calls us to follow His example of love (1 John 4:9-11).

How Do We Love? Whom Do We Love?

Jesus’ command to love others means essentially that we should look out for the needs of others.

Look out for their needs as we would look out for our own. We should love our neighbour as ourselves. Jesus was asked by an expert in religious law, “And who is my neighbour?” (Luke 10:29).

That’s a good question. How do we know whom we should love?

Jesus answers the man’s question in the following verses by telling The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37). On his way from Jerusalem to Jericho a man was attacked by bandits. He was left for dead. People passed him by, a priest and a Levite, a temple assistant. None of them decided to help the man.

Only a “despised” Samaritan felt compassion for him enough to help him. The Scripture doesn’t say the injured man was Jewish. Perhaps that’s part of Jesus’ point: this man could be anyone and he should be helped.

If the injured man was Jewish, the same point is made. Samaritans and Jews in biblical times did not get along. They were at opposite ends of the spectrum and did not associate with one another. But this Samaritan did not think twice.

The Samaritan bandaged the man’s wounds, took the man to an inn on his own donkey, and offered to pay the bill for his stay. The one who was despised—the one from whom he would never imagined getting help—was the one who helped the man when no one else would.

When you wonder whom you should love and how we should love, look back on the Parable of the good Samaritan. And go and do likewise.

When you wonder whom you should love and how we should love, look back on the Parable of the good Samaritan.

Adam Harris, a certificate graduate of Steinbach Bible College, is connected with Braeside EMC. He lives in Winnipeg.

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The Lord’s Prayer 2019

Our Father in Heaven

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by Dr. Arden Thiessen

6 The Messenger • January 2019

Editor’s Note: There will be a series on the Lord’s Prayer in 2019. This follows the Apostles’ Creed (2016), the Protestant (Radical) Reformation (2017), and the Mental Health Initiative (2018), whose articles are, or soon will be, available online in booklet form.

I

once made a bad mistake. I had concluded a committal service at the cemetery by inviting the group to say the Lord’s Prayer with me. Later, at the church reception a total stranger approached me in anger. “You treated my God with contempt,” he shouted. “You said, ‘Our Father which art in heaven.’ ‘Which’ implies God is a thing. That’s terrible; you insulted God.” He was furious.

I was so taken aback that I could not even explain why I had done it. I just apologized for my bad language. After he turned away I realized what had happened. I had recited the King James version as I had once memorized it and as I had used it for decades. I still use the Prayer when I lead committal services.

But I’ve left the language of 1611.

We speak about reciting the Lord’s Prayer. Or about saying it. Such expressions have a liturgical

feel about them. Let’s just pray the prayer from the heart. It should seem like a conversation.

However, prayer seems like a mystery; the longer I toil at it the more mysterious it seems.

Maybe that should not surprise us. Even the Apostle Paul, who understood many things far better than I do, says simply, “We don’t know how to pray as we ought” (Rom. 8:26). So, while I may not understand it either, I will try to say a few sensible things about it.

Puzzled

I am puzzled. The first line of Jesus’ prayer sounds as if the prayer is intended to be used in the assembly of believers. “Our” implies the prayer will spoken by a group. However, the context shows that Jesus was not thinking of group prayer here (He did that in Matt. 18). Here he says if someone wants to pray they are to go to their room, shut the door, and then pray (Matt. 6:6).

This sounds like personal, private prayer.

Jesus used the term “Our Father” only this once. Normally, when he taught his disciples, he spoke of “Your Father.” (The concept that Jesus and his followers have the same Father

Jesus used the term “Our Father” only this once.

Normally, when he taught his disciples, he spoke of “Your Father.”

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is, however, taught in Hebrews 2:11-12. When we allow ourselves to be sanctified by Jesus we become his brothers and sisters.)

I have thought that Jesus meant that he and we have the same Father. Like, “When you speak to the Father you are also speaking to my Father.”

Helmut Thielicke has a significant addition to that. He suggests Jesus taught us to pray “Our Father” because we are to remind ourselves that Jesus is with us when we pray. “Our” refers to Jesus and me.

In prayer we stand beside Jesus and tell the Father what we need; in other words, Jesus and I are together on this. This is another way of reminding ourselves of the same truth that we verbalize when we conclude our prayers with “In Jesus’ name” (Matt. 18:19, 20; John 15:16). By reminding ourselves that we are onside with Jesus, that we are praying with him, that we are praying for that which we can request in Jesus’ name, we are reminding ourselves that it is important that we pray for that which agrees with Jesus’ will.

Jesus was the messenger of the Holy Trinity who came to us in the far country of earth to seek us and reconnect us to the Triune God in

heaven. Among other things he wants to be with us in our praying. If we could remember this, our prayers would likely seem more valid and more essential in heaven. It might also destroy our self-centred, narcissistic focus on ourselves.

That would likely be seen in heaven as a healthy and wholesome change. And maybe we could even learn to enjoy the liberty of being more interested in Jesus’ concerns than in ours.

Father, a New Concept?

I’ve heard it said that Jesus introduced a new God concept when he spoke of “Father.” That hardly agrees with the evidence. First of all, God himself assumed the role of father when he declared, “Israel is my firstborn son” (Ex. 4:22, 23). The Lord assured King David about the son who would succeed him, “I will be a father to him and he shall be a son to me” (2 Sam. 7:14). The Lord in his compassion is compared to a kind father (Psalm 103:13). Isaiah uses the “Father” term three times (Isa. 63:16; 64:8). What Jesus does is that he takes a concept that had been only sparingly used in the Old Testament and makes it central for the lives of his people.

Jesus is not only teaching his disciples how

In prayer we stand beside Jesus and tell the Father what we need; in other words, Jesus and I are together on this.

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to pray, he is showing them how to think of God. In Israel’s history it was a momentous day when Moses heard that the God with the generic Semitic title of Elohim was for them the God with the personal name Yahweh. Now Jesus takes the revelation of who God is one step further. Not only is God personal, he is like a father.

may still do some theologizing, but they are then only talking about God. I understand Roman people would pray to “Father Jupiter,” and Greeks would turn to “Father Zeus” in prayer. Jesus’ followers are to pray to the Father who is in heaven. This is where the mystery of which I spoke above reaches its depth. How is it possible that we people of earth can with our words, even just with our thoughts, connect with God in his eternal, spiritual dimension?

The mysteries of heaven continue to confound me. Where is it? What is it? How can the God of heaven, who is Spirit, influence affairs in our kingdom of sticks and stones and flesh and bones? I wonder, and I keep on praying.

And now a concluding thought for your reflection. I suggest that if every one of the seven billion people on earth would pray to God simultaneously, God would pay fatherly attention to each one of them. That’s how it works in heaven!

I understand Roman people would pray to “Father Jupiter,” God is There for Us Like a good father, God is there and Greeks would turn to for us before we pray. He has far deeper and more informed “Father Zeus” in prayer. interests in our lives than we ourselves have. It may seem as if God is not hearing our prayers; but like a good father he may be waiting to give us what we need instead of what we desire.

Like a good father he knows our needs before we report them to him (Matt. 6:8). Why then pray if God already knows more than we ourselves know? Because God wants us to grow into a relationship with him. Good relationships require intelligent verbal interaction. That is true of the spousal relationship, of the parent-child relationship, of the members on a hockey team, and of the corporate board. It is especially true of our relationship with God. It starts by turning to him and speaking out, “Our Father.” With that we treat him as a personal God. And the greatest blessing of the prayer life is not that we get a few things for free, without our toil, but that we sense we’ve been in fellowship, we’ve been in the presence of our Father. When people stop talking with God they

Arden Thiessen, DMin, has long served our conference as a pastor, Bible college professor, EMC moderator, and author. He and his wife Helen live in Steinbach, Man., and are part of Steinbach EMC.

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Paul: From Despair to Cross-Shaped Courage ISTOCK

by Professor Arlene Friesen

I

magine getting an email from a friend saying something like this, “We’ve gone through some incredibly hard times lately. It has been so utterly and unbearably crushing that we despaired of life itself. Sometimes we truly thought death was just around the corner.”

Now imagine this was from your pastor or a pioneering missionary whom you respect. How about the mighty apostle Paul? Have you considered this side of him? Not the daring and brilliant trailblazer, but the vulnerable and discouraged man.

despaired of life itself because of the afflictions he had suffered in Asia (2 Cor 1:8-9)?

Trouble in Asia

The Spirit had ministered powerfully through Paul in the Asian city of Ephesus, pushing back the forces of darkness through the good news of Jesus. Miraculous healings took place, magicians burned their books, and even evil spirits acknowledged Paul (Acts 19:11-20). When he sent his first letter to the church in Corinth, he told them he planned to stay in Ephesus till Pentecost, for he had an open door for ministry, along with many adversaries (1 Cor 16:5-9).

Between this letter and the one we know as 2 Corinthians, Paul made a painful visit to Corinth and wrote a distressed and anguished follow-up letter (2 Cor 1:23-2:4). These were the people he had brought to Christ! With his leadership challenged and evident unrepentant sin in the church, he must have wrestled with the question of where it all went wrong. Adding to this struggle, he also suffered an unbearable affliction in the province of Asia (2 Cor 1:8).

Paul understood his calling to be a great privilege, but at Fear of Failure one point the difficulties and If your efforts in ministry, or the love and tears you pour setbacks in ministry drove out as a parent or grandparent, seem to be in vain, you will him to despair. find company in Paul. The one who spoke of confidence, hope and boldness in Christ also experienced frustration, anxiety, and the haunting fear that all his labour would be for nothing.

Paul understood his calling to be a great privilege, but at one point the difficulties and setbacks in ministry drove him to despair.

What was going on in Paul’s life and ministry when he told the Corinthian church that he had

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We don’t know exactly what this crushing affliction was. N.T. Wright, in his recent biography Paul, suggests that Paul entered a dark time as the evil forces that had been challenged rose up against him and the Way. Demetrius, the silversmith, stirred up a riot (Acts 19) that Wright contends led to betrayal and imprisonment in Ephesus.

Paul himself does not give us the details, but it may have been an imprisonment like this, a mob attack, a severe flogging, fighting the wild beasts—literal or figurative—at Ephesus (1 Cor 15:32), or some other persecution.

This physical suffering, combined with the emotional weight of his anxiety for the churches, may have triggered the despair. How did he survive this crisis of faith, and what insight can we gain to keep us going in the face of discouragement?

Paul also remembers that God in his mercy has called him to this ministry. If it had been his own idea, he might have concluded that this was a big mistake, but knowing he’s a partner in God’s ministry, he carries on in faith and love (2 Cor 4:1, 5:14, 18-6:1). When the task before you seems arduous, remember God’s mercy in inviting you into his work. Why carry on? Love and obedience.

With his calling confirmed, Paul resists Satan’s designs. He is aware of the schemer and is determined not to be outwitted. How often do we get discouraged and think we’re just dealing with our human weakness? Are we alert to the enemy’s attempts to disable us? Do we intentionally take every thought captive?

Paul knows that the real enemies are not the people who disappoint, discourage, or openly oppose us, but spiritual forces of evil. Therefore, he takes up weapons for this battle that have divine power to destroy arguments and obstacles raised up against Christ (Eph. 6:12-13; 2 Cor. 2:11, 10:3-5, 11:13-15).

How did he survive this crisis of faith, and what insight can we gain to keep us going in the face of discouragement?

Two Realities

Paul’s outward reality was difficult, and he faced the same disconcerting emotions that many of us do as we deal with life and ministry. He describes his experience with terms like perplexed, unbearably crushed, despairing of life, distress and anguish, disputes without and fears within, the daily pressure of his anxiety for the churches, and his fear of being disappointed by the Corinthians’ sinful immaturity (2 Cor. 1:8-9, 2:4, 4:8-9, 7:5, 11:28, 12:20-21).

However, another thread runs through this letter, speaking of God’s consolation, confidence through Christ, hope, great boldness, not losing heart, great pride in the Corinthians, and joyful contentment in weakness (2 Cor. 1:3-4, 3:4, 3:12, 4:1, 7:4, 12:9-10).

Sources of Courage

Reading Paul’s letter, we see at least four reasons for the courage that rises from the ash heap of discouragement. First, Paul reflects on the new covenant brought about through the ministry of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. This covenant brings righteousness and a lasting glory, and the certainty of this hope empowers him to act boldly (2 Cor 3:4-12).

Some depictions of Paul hide the pain of his ministry.

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Through it all, Paul relies on God who raises the dead. God’s incomparable power is available to us now, for the resurrected and ascended Lord Jesus exercises authority over all spiritual powers for the sake of the church. Personally, we are assured that God’s transforming work is already underway as we look to the future and an eternal glory that far outweighs any suffering (Eph. 1:19-23; 2 Cor. 1:9-10, 3:18, 4:14-17).

Cross-Shaped Discipleship

If you’re feeling that all has been in vain, take courage. Reflect on the ministry that brings righteousness and lasting glory, remembering that in God’s mercy, he has invited you to partner with him in this ministry. Rely on the resurrection power of God, resisting the enemy’s attempts to remove you from the game through suffering or discouragement.

Like Paul, we can live in apparent weakness without giving up. Christ’s victory will be worked out in our lives through cross-shaped discipleship. What looks like weakness is the opportunity for God’s power to be perfected in us.

As Paul says, “We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed

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on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body” (2 Cor. 4:7-10). The sacrificial love of the crucified and risen Messiah motivates us to selfless, long-suffering love for those we serve (2 Cor. 5:13-15).

When discouragement dogs you, take up a cross-shaped courage and serve on. “Since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. . . For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ” (2 Cor 4:1, 5).

Arlene Friesen, BRS, MTS, teaches Bible and Worship courses and serves as Registrar at Steinbach Bible College. She is involved with Morrow Gospel Church (EMMC).

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Mental Health Initiative 2018

Being Restored

by Irene Ascough

F

or the past year The Messenger has published articles that have spoken about Mental Health and Mental Illness. As a Mental Health Initiative in the EMC, we hope to have sparked conversation and discussion among our churches. Our articles have asked people to consider how the church can care for people who have a mental illness. We have looked at how we can become communities that promote the mental health and well-being of youth. We have also considered our role in supporting the healing work of God and how can we interact with the systems and supports that surround us.

This article contains part of my story, and is an example of how we all experience brokenness, pain and challenges to our mental

well-being. It is based on the belief that our mental, emotional, spiritual, relational and physical health are inter-related. In 1 Corinthians 12:26 we read, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it.” I believe that this is true of both our individual selves and of the Church.

While I knew a sense of longing for it to be true, I My Story also wondered what had One day this summer I was out for a walk and listening to a devohappened to my soul? tional app that I use. The reading that day was Psalm 23 and as I heard the familiar words, “He restores my soul,” it became personal and clear to me that God is restoring my soul. While I knew a sense of longing for it to be true, I also wondered what had happened to my soul? While we all suffer under

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original sin and need restoration, I knew that I had committed myself to God many years ago and had not walked away from that commitment.

So, I wondered, what had happened to my soul?

Albert Barnes, in his commentary, says that the reference to the soul here is not to the soul as wandering or backsliding from God, but to the life or spirit as exhausted, wearied, troubled, anxious, worn down with care and toil. And the heart, thus exhausted, He re-animates. He brings back its vigour. He encourages it, excites it to new effort, fills it with new joy.

Well, that described my soul at the time. I had experienced multiple losses that were sudden and unexpected and, therefore, traumatic.

My spirit was exhausted, weary, sad, troubled, anxious and worn down with care; and it was amazing to hear God speaking to me through His Word that He would restore my soul.

Restoration

I got curious about the word restore, and thought about where else we use that word. I thought about the things people restore, such as old buildings which probably cost more to restore than to tear down and build new. Or old furniture that is given new life and purpose with fresh paint and hardware. There are art restorers who

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The difference between Mental Health and Mental Illness: http:// www.heretohelp.bc.ca/ask-us/ whats-the-difference-between-mental-health-and-mental-illness? painstakingly clean the dirt and grime off an old painting to uncover the original colors, shadows, and vibrancy that the artist first created.

People restore things because they see the original beauty and the value of the craftsmanship. They recognize that they do not have some mass-produced, cheaply made, disposable item, but something interesting and unique and made to last. They also know that they will never get back what they put into it, and that doesn’t matter because what they do is a labour of love and it brings them great satisfaction and joy.

Now think of yourself as the building or furniture or piece of artwork and imagine God as the restorer. We are His creation and in the beginning we were very good (Genesis 1). However, our souls become weary and worn, battered and bruised from a combination of many things, including our choices, the things that happen to us, and the fact that we live in a broken world.

Ephesians 2:10 says “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,

which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Masterpieces aren’t made by run of the mill craftsmen; they require the skilled hands of a genius. They are one of a kind, never to be repeated gifts to the world. Stripping off the false layers and dirt that cover up your unique qualities and life is complex.

What adds to the complexity is that we are not inanimate objects that God works on as He wills.

We have our own will and can choose how we respond to His work in our lives. If we consent to His restoring work in our soul, then we can join Him by creating an environment that will allow him to do what only He can do in our lives.

Making Room

For me this has meant that I make space for God to do His healing work in my life in the following ways. I accept the prayers and support of family, friends and my church family, and I am grateful for the way God meets me in those relationships. I went to see my physician and a mental health professional and rely on their expertise as they guide me in ways that encourage my physical and mental well-being.

I also meet with people who provide pastoral and spiritual care to me, and I am grateful that they understand my journey and help me to process grief through spiritual practices such as reading scripture, praying, participating in community, worship, and service.

These practises are becoming like food and water to my soul rather than the things I should

do. I am discovering that I can read the Bible so that I know the “Word made flesh” more deeply and intimately. When I pray, I spend less time telling God what I want Him to do and I am learning to say as the boy Samuel, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”

As I am being shaped and formed by the Holy Spirit in these practices, my life in community, my worship and my service are also changing. For example, when I spend time with others who are being restored, I am able to focus less on what we are doing and see more of who we are becoming. This allows me to hear others’ stories with compassion and grace.

I like to think that the work God is doing in me is just one small part of the work that He is doing in each of us and in all of creation. Even though the journey always has ups and downs, I am grateful that in the process of restoring my soul, I am also finding greater health in my physical, mental, and emotional well-being. I trust the words of Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Irene Ascough, BN, has experience in and is passionate about health promotion.

She is currently pursuing training as a spiritual director and is an active member at Kleefeld EMC.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 15

Column • Disciples' Journey

Youth Ministry: A High Calling

T

ISTOCK

by Gerald D. Reimer Director of Youth and Discipleship

he concept of “youth ministry” began as a para-church ministry by Youth For Christ and Young Life in high schools across the U.S. in the 1940s. Their mission—to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and to help them grow in their faith— remains to this day.

By the early 70’s churches began hiring their own youth pastors to bring this ministry into their midst.

Sadly, by the time the 80’s rolled around the pressure was on to provide MTV-style entertainment to attract more students. And with this came a gradual loss of the discipleship-focus that generated the ministry in the first place.

I’d like to suggest that though youth ministry fads still come and go, the focus in most evangelical churches is once again on discipleship, particularly as we’ve become aware of students falling through the cracks in life transitions both in their early teens as well as early adulthood.

This was reported on in the Hemorrhaging Faith research done by the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada back in 2012 and their follow-up project in 2018 called Renegotiating Faith.

Recently, researchers at the University of Buffalo completed a study of young adults who had experienced difficult circumstances during school-aged years. Subjects consistently indicated that they had wanted adults to stick with them and not give up on them. Isn’t that what Jesus does with us as he shows us consistent mercy and grace? (cpyuparentpage.com – December 2018) This past October, EMC youth pastors and leaders met at Camp Cedarwood in Manitoba for our biennial youth leaders’ retreat.

Among the many topics formally and informally discussed throughout the weekend were the importance of discipleship, of mentoring relationships, of gospel-centred teaching, and of helping our students fall deeper in love with Jesus and integrate that faith into their lives.

I’m thankful to report that the majority of youth ministry in our EMC churches looks very

Our youth pastors and leaders give up hundreds of hours of their “free” time each year to spend with your son or daughter.

Thank your leaders for their service!

16 The Messenger • January 2019

much like this. Generally speaking, gone are the days of entertainment-based programming, Jesus-lite teaching, and games night every other week. Most weeks you’ll find students meeting with youth leaders in small groups as they dig deeper into God’s Word after the teaching time.

You’ll definitely hear laughter and chatter, but you’ll also hear thoughtful questions as students learn what following Jesus looks like in their daily lives. You’ll hear songs of worshipful praise and sometimes quiet sobs as burdens are shared and fellow students and leaders pray for one another. And maybe the most amazing thing you won’t hear is leaders apologizing for doing life-on-life relational ministry that focuses on Jesus above all else.

Our youth pastors and leaders give up hundreds of hours of their “free” time each year to spend with your son or daughter. They want to make a difference and they don’t want to “waste” time simply playing games or babysitting your child. They are called to something greater and so are the students. And that is why your leaders want to partner with you to provide support however they can.

In a few months youth leaders will be taking your students to another discipleship weekend, our national youth event called Abundant Springs on May 17-20, 2019 (abundantsprings. ca). Talk to your leaders and make sure your kids and grandkids are part of that weekend. And thank your leaders for their service!

With Our Missionaries

I Love to See People Follow Christ!

PARAGUAY

There is something so exciting and moving about coming together to celebrate public declarations of a desire to follow Christ and having a great church service under the trees. I love it!

We were so blessed to hear the testimonies of those being baptized and to hear others encouraging the ones being baptized.

Two people were baptized on this Sunday: Fernando, a young man and José, the husband of Miriam who was baptized in May. These stories are shared with their permission.

José talked about how God had been calling him back to him and how for a long time he had ignored God. When their house blew down in January 2018 and they asked a lady from church for help organizing a fundraiser, she asked the church for help and we all pitched in.

He admitted to helping with the fundraiser only to be able to buy bricks to rebuild his house, but his heart changed towards God at that fundraiser through a conversation with a member of the EMC prayer team visiting from Canada. We praise God for the change and the sincere dedication we see in José now.

Fernando is also growing in his faith and learning to trust God. When he gave his testimony he talked about coming to know Christ after being so heartbroken about his mother’s cancer. He was able to say that although his mother’s sickness has been very hard, he is thankful for it because he came to know Christ through it. He is excited about growing in his faith and sharing with others. Pray that he will be firm in his decision to follow God and that we will have joy in honouring God with his life.

But there’s more. There are three more young men who would like to be baptized and we are looking at having another baptism early in 2019. They all have their struggles but it is exciting to see them growing in their faith and wanting to take this step of obedience. May they truly love God with all their heart!

A few more young people made decisions to follow God at camp in December and have begun to participate in church activities. Their excitement and joy is encouraging to see. We pray that they will continue to joyfully put their faith in him as they walk with him day to day.

– Travis Zacharias

TRAVIS ZACHARIAS

Travis and Rosey Zacharias (MacGregor) serve in Minga Guazú, a city of 60,000 (2008) in Paraguay located about 20 kms from Brazil.

Jose was baptized by Chris Kroeker and Travis Zacharias.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 17

With Our Missionaries

The Caravan of Immigrants MEXICO

backpacks; and they kept walking and walking.

The image seemed surreal and heartbreaking.

With my van empty I went onto the road and invited a group with four small children to climb aboard.

Fourteen passengers fit with their belongings. Remember when I told the joke, how many passengers fit in a Mexican taxi? Yes, one more. I grabbed some food and water and took them to a shelter in Nayarit more than a hundred kilometers away.

On the way back, along the road there were people walking, so I reached the initial point and invited others to get on the van. A 12-year-old boy was traveling alone. He was hungry. I gave him some food and then he fell asleep. I thought I had seen everything until a person asked me for food. We did not have more; then he ate the dregs.

Again, on the way back alone, I was thinking about what was happening, I decided to make another trip. I found on the road a group with four small children and a teenager. It was getting dark and they quickly climbed into the van. A little girl was playing with my GPS phone. She told me, “It is the treasure map”; yes, the treasure maps took her to the treasure of shelter and food.

I was overwhelmed and tired by what had happened, and happy for the opportunity to tell them about Jesus.

This combination of emotions led me to remember the story of God taking care of Evangelical Mennonite Conference Israel on the desert and of Jesus approach2018 Financial Report ing people on his journey through Palestine. (as of January 15, 2019) And this question is on my mind: Is Jesus the General General Christ of the migrants?

Fund 2018 Fund 2017 – Angel Infantes Income* 1,678,423 1,901,641 Angel Infantes (AberExpenses 1,844,638 1,890,311 deen) serves with his wife Excess/Shortfall -166,215 -11,330 Blanca as part of the This is not a final report. Please visit the EMC website for upchurch planting team in dates throughout Jan. We thank you for your generosity toward the city of Guadalajara, EMC ministries in 2018. More information will come in print.

Jalisco state, Mexico.

- The Board of Trustees *Income includes donations and transfers from other funds (e.g., estate funds).

18 The Messenger • January 2019

ISTOCK

Immigration is a current issue. Our country, Canada, is made up of emigrants; at least 200,000 people from different parts of the world join Canada every year.

My experience with emigrants at Braeside EMC and Aberdeen EMC allowed me to know their stories that seemed far away; however, the experience of these days have brought me closer to those stories.

Emigrating is not always easy. The reasons are different, the stories too.

These days I was volunteering with FM4 (fm4pasolibre.org), a civil organization in Guadalajara that helps migrants.

On Saturday, Nov. 10, 2019, at night migrants began arriving in the city. On Sunday I got a message to go to a shelter and oversee the collection centre. Many people brought water, food, clothes, hygiene supplies, backpacks, and shoes. The collection centre was at the entrance, so I had the opportunity to welcome migrants at their arriving.

A thousand immigrants arrived on Sunday by walking.

They came from Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Guatemala. Two of main factors they flee their countries are violence and poverty. The “Caravana” crossed the Guatemala-Mexican border a month ago on their way north.

On Monday night more than 5,000 reached Guadalajara.

The shelter and help collapsed.

As soon the sun came up on Tuesday, a group of migrants decided to continue their journey; soon the whole group followed them. The road covered with people seems like an exodus. They looked weary, sad. Parents pushing strollers. People carrying all their belongings in

With Our Missionaries

Who Will Hear the Name of Jesus From Your Lips?

UGANDA

ANGELA KRUSE

“From one man, He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him” (Acts 17:26-27).

This passage of Scripture has spoken powerfully to us after returning this past June from Northern Uganda where more than one million Southern Sudanese crossed the border fleeing war and famine. The sheer number of refugees is overwhelming, yet what God is doing through this crisis must be proclaimed.

God has allowed one million Southern Sudanese into Uganda’s predominately Muslim North. Coincidence? We don’t think so. Christians are actively sharing the gospel with their Ugandan Muslim neighbours.

Our first Sunday in the town of Arua, northern Uganda, we attended a local Sudanese church that met under a mango tree. We recognized Martha from the Dinka tribe.

Ten years previously, while serving in a Sudanese refugee camp in Ethiopia, we had sponsored her husband to attend a Bible school.

At a weekly Bible study that I held, Martha asked for prayer as her Ugandan neighbours were practicing witchcraft and she was deeply troubled. We prayed for protection and an opportunity for her to share the gospel. That week, the children in her neighbour’s home became ill.

She brought them food, paid for their

medicine, and shared the gospel. Barely managing to feed and clothe her six children, she shared Christ to her neighbours in word and deed.

While over 80 per cent of the population are women and children, dozens of active churches proclaiming Christ each Sunday in every refugee camp. Women serve the sick and the poorest among them while caring for relatives’ children and orphans in addition to their children.

Pastors and evangelists have joined different denominations of churches together so they can more effectively use their limited resources. Children and youth choirs actively praise God each Sunday morning and share the gospel during the week.

The refugee camps in Northern Uganda have become hubs for training Sudanese leaders in church planting, leadership, TEE and discipleship. The refugee camps and towns are a safe for women to raise their children while their husbands continue ministry in volatile places.

How should we respond to refugees or immigrants entering our countries from places that are hard to send missionaries? God is using circumstances like war, famine, and persecution so that every nation might hear the good news of Jesus Christ.

How should we respond? Recognize God is actively at work. Be ready to help God›s people in need. Practice hospitality and share the gospel in word and deed. Refugees are coming to our towns and cities. Do they see your spiritual fervour and your faithfulness in prayer? Who will hear the name of Jesus from your lips?

– Angela Kruse Angela and Rolf Kruse (Rosenort FC) serve with SIM in Uganda.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 19

With Our Missionaries

Benny and Ester Fehr and their four children will be leaving for Bolivia in late January to begin ministry with EMC Missions. They have been assigned to lead the radio ministry for the MEM in the San Jose/Hacienda Verde area. A secondary assignment will be to work alongside the youth in the Hacienda Verde church. The Fehrs are members in the Mount Salem Community Church (EMC) near Alymer, Ont., where they have served in the Pastor of Care position.

– Ken Zacharias Director of Global Outreach

With Our Churches

BOM

Benny and Ester Fehr assigned to Bolivia

••

Pelly Fellowship Chapel

Hyoun Jin Yoon is baptized

20 The Messenger • January 2019

an impression on me. I’m so glad that I was able to meditate again about the joy of my faith confession through today’s baptism.

Second, my baptism today means that I will be a member of the Mennonite church. It is my determination to follow the principles of pacifism.

It is very difficult for a Korean to observe the principle of pacifism because Korea is still in a state of truce. I pray that the Holy Spirit gives strength and power so I can do so. I bring all the glory to God. – Rhonda Brodeur PELLY

PELLY, Sask.—On June 24, 2018, after our morning service Pastor Hyoungjin (Frankie) Kim baptized Houn Jin (Simon) Yoon. During the morning service Simon gave this testimony (here slightly shortened): First, I praise God for accepting our worship. I was a Presbyterian member from birth and I had an infant baptism. When I was 18, I became an official member of the Presbyterian Church.

The Presbyterian Church usually thinks that baptism only one time is enough for your whole life.

I saw a person being immersed, baptized, for the first time around the age of 40. The believer confessed his faith by himself. It made

With Our Churches Blumenort EMC

BLUMENORT, Man.—On Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, Thea Reimer, Karalee Reimer, and Tyler Reimer committed their lives to the Lord by way of baptism. Pastor Anthony Reimer administered the baptism. Amy Lange, who was baptized at Eagle Lake Bible Camp earlier this summer, also became a covenant member. Prayers for these young people would be appreciated as they continue on the path of Christian life.

Here is an update of the events from last summer at Eagle Lake Bible Camp written by Alain Reimer: Another summer of Eagle Lake Bible Camp has come and gone and, once again, it has been a beautiful testimony of God’s grace and provision. We run seven weeks of camp with a majority of our staff being volunteers; and every year it is amazing how God not only provides Eagle Lake with the staff it needs, but with amazing staff of all ages. These staff are eager to serve our Lord by giving of themselves physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially to ensure that as many campers as possible can experience God’s love and grace throughout the summer.

BLUMENORT

Baptisms, Eagle Lake Bible Camp

We continue to pray and trust that the lives that were influenced by the grace of God this summer would continue to grow in faith through the winter, whether through our follow up events and mentoring program, or through the youth groups and churches that are situated near the campers wherever they live.

God has given us an incredible message of love and grace that is for all people; and it is truly a rich blessing to think of the hundreds of children and teens who were able to hear and experience that love and grace through the Eagle Lake Bible Camp staff this summer.

– Janice Harder

•• Kleefeld EMC

Inspiring Testimonies, Deacons Installed, Associate Pastor Elected Coralie and baby son Finnley on Nov. 18, 2018, the day of Lyndol’s installation. Our congregation was happy to be able to elect an associate pastor from within our ranks, and we anticipate many blessings as Lyndol serves alongside our pastor Peter Ascough.

– Louella and Dennis Friesen

WANNETA FAST

KLEEFELD, Man.—“Great is Thy Faithfulness” was the theme echoed by Ed and Ruth Friesen (shown here with Pastor Pete Ascough) on the occasion of their baptism and membership reception on Sept. 16, 2018. After years of living a life not committed to Christ, this summer Ed surrendered to Christ as his Saviour, and he and Ruth were baptized in the Kleefeld EMC. Their testimonies were truly inspiring.

KEMC was blessed with the addition of two deacon couples who were installed on Nov. 11, 2018: Jenn and Caleb Friesen, and Wendy and Dave Froese. Thank you for choosing to serve the Lord in this capacity.

Elected to the position of Associate Pastor at the Kleefeld EMC was Lyndol Fast, shown with his wife

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 21

With Our Churches Fort Garry EMC

MEXICO/MANITOBA— Ixtapa is a Pacific Coast beach resort within Puerto Vallarta in the Mexican state of Guerrero. Out of sight and concern of most tourists is a large garbage dump (basurero). Families live at the dump, trying to make a living.

For a few years some members of the Fort Garry EMC have been visiting the dump, seeking to improve people’s living conditions. EMC Project Builders, which supports missions projects around the world, is assisting in this ministry.

The school was named Escuela Nueva Manitoba en Mexico (New School Manitoba in Mexico) by the original teacher. We provide breakfast and lunch for the children, believing that a healthy stomach makes for a good student.

Our Home Ec class consists mainly of teaching sanitation (and, frankly, dishwashing, a skill not learned or used in the home), and they do a fine job of it. Unfortunately most of these girls drop out of school at age 13 and too often step right into motherhood.

One day a week we load up a vehicle and enter the bowels of the dump to provide meals to their adults. As we do this we tell different Bible stories. Last year we introduced the story of Jesus being betrayed (they can relate to that) and how he washed the feet of every disciple on his team,

22 The Messenger • January 2019

FORT GARRY

Ministry Continues With People on Garbage Dump

including his betrayer. There were eager participants who volunteered their dirty and dusty feet.

A regular at the adult free meal was Freddie. He had the heartiest smile and eagerly vocalized two English words, “Thank you” again and again. He was found dead last June as a result of using bad drugs. Life is both cruel and short on the dump.

The only playground equipment is a wooden swing structure that our team designed and built. It’s a very popular place but leaves the smallest children at a disadvantage. The children by nature are tough on equipment.

They haven’t learned to play with stuff that isn’t outright garbage or somebody else’s discards. So we patiently teach the value of things as well.

The school campus consists of four wooden structures.

They house three classrooms and a kitchen (cocina). We understand all of this is located on a garbage dump, which at best offers temporal existence. The government may change their plans overnight and close its availability for the community. We want to be prudent in our investment.

Meanwhile the community is proud of their school.

We are grateful for the support we have received from Project Builders over the years. We believe the money has had a significant impact on the welfare of the community.

We further believe education is the only hope for these children to break free of the dump existence. We channel all funds through the treasury of the Fort Garry EMC, which has endorsed this ministry as part of their Missions program.

We will again host a workteam to Ixtapa from Jan. 18 to Feb. 2, 2019. All participants are self-financed.

– Sid Reimer

With Our Churches MacGregor EMC

Spring Baptisms, Fall Ordination MacGREGOR, Man.—Our spring season climaxed on June 17, 2018, with a celebratory baptism service involving five people from our congregation. Before they were baptized we were touched as they shared how God had worked in their lives, creating a desire to publicly demonstrate their union with Christ and the church family.

In a spirit of joyful reverence, Pastor Russell Doerksen performed the ceremony assisted by deacons Sheldon Giesbrecht and Jeff Thiessen. Following the service the celebration spilled over into the dining area for On June 7, 2018, Pastor Russell Doerksen baptized Conner Giesbrecht, a bountiful potluck meal accompanied by heart-warm- Braden Toews, Bev Sinnott, and Ben Kim and Mia Kim. ing fellowship.

One week later a large crowd gathered in the local to resume Sunday School after the summer break. high school for the annual community worship service.

On Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, the MacGregor EMC The event provides an opportunity to meet friends and ordained its pastor, Russell Doerksen. He has been servacquaintances from other churches in the area, and to join ing the congregation, together with his wife Shannon in singing, praying and worshipping the Lord together. and daughter Noelle, since August 2017. Layton Friesen, After the summer recess, the new Sunday School seaConference Pastor, performed the ordination while Stan son began on Sept. 9, 2018, with a pancake and bacon Hamm, from Providence University College and Theologibreakfast, augmented by fruit platters and other treats. cal Seminary, delivered the message.

Sandra Sawatzky, our Christian Education coordinator, Many of Russell and Shannon’s friends and family were conducted the promotion ceremony before dismissing the also there to show their support. The ordination service students and their teachers to their classrooms. In addiwas followed by communion and a potluck lunch. The contion to the usual classes, she introduced two new classes gregation is grateful to have Russell and Shannon serving for adults: a SEAN class studying an overview of the Bible in our area and wish them well in the years ahead. led by Evelyn Rodgers and a marriage class led by Jeff and – Menno Hamm and Donna Thiessen Donna Thiessen. By all appearances, everyone was happy

MACGREGOR

Church Planter needed for Windsor, Ontario Is this person you?

On Nov. 11, 2018, Pastor Russell Doerksen was ordained at MacGregor, seen here with his wife Shannon and daughter Noelle.

If you are interested in learning more, call or email Charlie Koop at 403-874-1759 or ckoop@emconference.ca

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 23

With Our Churches Portage Evangelical Church

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE, Man.—Here’s an update from Lori and Jeremy Schierer, missionaries from PEC who serve with YWAM from Australia on a medical ship.

It’s amazing to see how God has expanded our ministry over the past nine years. When we started out, the YWAM Medical Ship spent only five to six months of each year in Papua New Guinea. This year the ship was operational for 10 months.

Without relationships our motor ships would come to a stop. Through relationships we have fuel, satellite internet service, wharves, oil filters, radios, paint, heavy-duty rubbish compactor bags, medications, patients, crew and staff. We have relationships with vendors, technicians, medical professionals, cooks, seafarers, donors, government officials, church leaders, unskilled but willing volunteers, and, of course, with the people to whom we bring medical services.

Here are some individuals with whom we’ve built relationships. Sister Riggs is a PNG nurse/midwife and medical coordinator who works in PNG’s Central Province. She helps ensure we visit the places with the most need. Dr. Keith is an ophthalmologist from New Zealand who joins us two times a year. He performed our onethousandth surgery earlier in 2018. In 2016 he operated on

PORTAGE

Medical Ship Relationships Change Lives

a six-year-old girl who had bi-lateral cataracts, giving her an opportunity for a more abundant life.

Puma Energy, a global energy company, has donated the fuel for the ship and our small boats for many years now. Vinori, a PNG dental therapist, has joined us for outreach in her province of Oro. We gave her a portable dental chair so she can provide services in remote areas after we’ve gone.

Through such relationships we see God’s heart of love flow to the people of PNG one individual at a time.

– Lori Schierer

•• Portage Evangelical Church

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE, Man.—On Dec. 2, 2018, we had child dedication. Her mother Mary Zarah Aniekwe and father Angus dedicated Zarah Chizaram Aniekwe. Grandmother Teresa and Pastor Les Kroeker appear in the photo.

Parents Jeremy and Nikki dedicated Camila Nickel. Their other children are Bethany and Thundra. The children in the church put on a powerful music and theatre production called Star Search. Gail Bueckert and Nita Wiebe led this. It was really well done with a great story.

– Stan Wiebe and Cathy Epp

24 The Messenger • January 2019

PORTAGE

Dedications and ‘Star Search’

News

ANDREW WALKER

Ministerial Looks at ‘Ordination in the Bible and the EMC’ authority from Aaron to Eleazar (Num. 20:25-27); and the commissioning of Joshua (Num. 27:18-20).

In the New Testament Jesus is the High Priest, our Mediator, who has opened a new and living way. All are priests, yet leadership is needed. The Twelve chose Matthias by lot (Acts 1), had authority, but there’s mention of them appointing Alex Reimer, Michael Dueck, Jesse Plett, and youth pastor Jason Dueck assisted in worship. successors. The seven are appointed (Acts 6) with no LORETTE, Man.—The EMC’s ministerial on Nov. 23, mention of them being deacons; the ministries of Stephen 2018, was led briefly by Brian Reimer, discussed ordinaand Philip seem more apostolic. Barnabas and Saul are set tion within Scripture, heard stories of “the joy and burden apart to serve as missionaries (Acts 13), and they appointed of ordination,” learned of a new process proposed for ordielders in each church (Acts 14). nation, and ended with a sharing of ministry joys and A companion is chosen to accompany Titus (2 Cor. concerns. And, in a day devoted to a discussion of ordi8:19). Gifts are given for church’s edification (Eph. 4:11). nation, a continuing issue raised was how this related to The Pastoral letters have more on appointing or ordaining women. leaders: there is the laying of hands and perhaps prophecy.

The effect is binding, not casual, with no room for carelessOpening ness. The lists of qualities in an elder (Titus 1:5-9, 1 Tim. Richard Klassen, BLO chair, welcomed ministerial mem3:1-7) combine the needs of good character and sound bers. Pastor Brian Reimer, of the host Prairie Grove doctrine. congregation, read Scriptures from both Testaments interIn NT times there was little distinction between an spersed with congregational singing. elder and a bishop, but Cyprian in the third century AD saw bishops as the successors of the apostles and the hierOrdination in the Bible archy became entrenched. The Reformation saw a priestly Ward Parkinson (Rosenort EMC) said within the EMC role rejected in favour of the pastoral, with education and ordination is both an act of the local church and the condoctrine having priorities. ference; the conference also practices commissioning for a Ordination is more than a human rite; it is an definite period and task. Affirmation in service is needed by the BLO or the BOM. There is no prescriptive designation of ordination in Scripture, and so some people set it aside, Ward said, but Scripture has descriptions of it, obedience requires ordination, and Scripture lists requirements. In a survey of Scripture, Ward listed the ordination of Aaron (Ex. 29:9), the Levites (Num. 8), and the 70 elders (Num. 11); the transfer of priestly Layton Friesen and Ward Parkinson were major presenters during the meeting.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 25

News

Earl Unger

equipping through the laying of hands and a role that is a gift of God, Ward said.

Leaders are selected by congregation or appointment with neither less biblical.

There is to be testing of study, doctrine, reputation and character. The setting apart is a life-long process.

Stories of the Joy and Burden of Ordination

Four ministers shared their thoughts on being ordained.

Edwin Plett

When Frank D. Reimer resigned at Prairie Rose and an expected successor withdrew, he became the next logical candidate who was elected before he, too, resigned. Edwin served for decades. Was he called? Moses resisted until God told him to “Shut up,” pack his bags, and go to Egypt.

He was set apart as spiritual leader with a responsibility to preach the Word, which he accepted.

He learned that his time had to be flexible, had to adjust from moving from being teacher to a pastor (and living on a pastor’s salary), and accepted counsel not to neglect his family. He will never forgot how he was installed as pastor in the morning and officiated at his first funeral in the afternoon.

Earl Unger

Vern Knutson

26 The Messenger • January 2019

He has served 20 years in the EMC (Stony Brook) amid a sense of inadequacy that has kept him reliant on the Lord. His journey has taken him through an EMB church plant, training, and a call to a Baptist church; a mentor helped him prepare for ordination.

There is not a lot

of biblical support for ordination, for “pomp and ceremonies” and “diplomas.” He doesn’t know the significance of ordination and doesn’t use “Reverend” except when writing to a court where it makes a difference. Being ordained has helped him in difficult times to be reminded that pastoral ministry is more than a job; it’s a calling in which he was set apart. The authority of a pastor doesn’t come Edwin Plett with the position, but is a voluntary submission.

Vern Knutson

Vern (Riverton) was in grade nine when God laid it on his heart to be a pastor. Influential in his connecting with the EMC were his wife Lana’s Pelly link and conference pastor David Thiessen. Crestview wanted an ordained person, but he asked it to hold off. Ordination later happened. It reminds him that he is part of something bigger, and the sense of calling holds him in tough times.

He is concerned about training—both too little and burnout from too many demands. He loves that the Lord has called him to this and at times he “would give it away for a nickel.”

Scott Dick

Now a church planter in Ste. Agathe, Man., Dick said he had been commissioned at Rosenort EMC as a youth pastor where it was suggested that he pursue ordination at some time. When he looked at the paperwork, he didn’t see it really affecting what he was doing in ministry. It’s been a four-year process of working through the required reading and writing. He has struggled to pursue ordination because he has been waiting for the church to call or select him.

Ordination means to set apart for a particular responsibility for leading and serving Christ’s bride, the Church. It signifies a formal recognition of someone who’s following the Lord in an example that others should imitate. Ordination represents the affirmation of the church and helps develop a deepening sense of responsibility for the Church.

News

A delegation visited from Coaldale Mennonite Church.

Looking at How We Ordain People

Layton Friesen said that the BLO heard calls from the church to strengthen and enhance ordination within the EMC. A proposal was sent, discussion will occur, changes might happen, and a decision will be made in July 2019.

Rather than a “pass the exam” process, there will be a seven-month (Oct.-April) ordination course where ordinands become a cohort (a unit) of leaders who will meet together (online or in person) during this period.

A required set of readings and written reflections will relate to skills, theology, history, spirituality and character. A pastor in the region will serve as a mentor and the conference pastor and church planting director will host periodic forums online with the cohort. The candidate and mentor will spend months preparing a theological questionnaire. Only those affirmed by the mentor will proceed to ordination. The cohort will be examined together in a retreat in May where the examination committee can respond to each candidate with an unqualified assent, qualified assent, or dissent.

because their role has changed in most churches.

Teaching scripture and doctrine is no longer a central to it, and most churches have moved to terms from life callings.

Instead, EMC orientation evenings for deacons should be held. Deacons would not form part of the EMC ministerial (unless they have already been ordained and then their role would continue).

All deacons would be welcome at the ministerial retreat. If a church wants a deacon to teach and discern about doctrine, it can seek their ordination and the new cohort process would apply to such candidates as well.

There are some positions (parachurch, college professors, or chaplains) where ordination can be pursued without the place of service being directly in a local church. If a minister no longer serves an EMC congregation, their ordination would become inactive after one year; they are not “defrocked” and their ordination can be reactivated at the request of an EMC church.

Discussion

There was considerable discussion throughout the day and a time for sharing of joys and concerns and prayer together.

– by Terry M. Smith

Deacons, Inactivity

The BLO feels that it should no longer exam or ordain deacons

Ministerial members prayed for shared concerns.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 27

News

Council Approves Modified Support Model, Slight Budget Increase Discussion dominates as council responds to challenges

ANDREW WALKER

council and ministerial meetings could still be held, and one possibility is to shift convention’s time to avoid a conflict with MWC’s event. Exploring means options will be looked at and the board will return to council with a recommendation. The motion carried.

Tim Dyck, executive director, said staff affirmed that the national office exists to “nurture the shared confession, mission, and covenant of the EMC.” A healthy organization requires a cohesive leadership team and organizational clarity. The staff members have spent a few months on improving team dynamics.

MCC and MWC

Mark Epp, program director, said by video that there is no hope for peace in the Middle East without restorative justice, and efforts toward peace are being made around the globe.

MWC brings together various Anabaptist bodies, said North America representative Gerald Hildebrand. Our well-being is tied to the well-being of others; we need the help of our brothers and sisters to follow Jesus, said Hildebrand.

Delegates pondered and responded throughout the day.

WINNIPEG, Man.—Conference council delegates on Nov. 24, 2018, voted to explore encouraging attendance at MWC’s Assembly in Indonesia in 2021, approved a blended support model for fully-administered missionaries, supported a $19,000 budget increase for 2019, and heard an update on the Inspiring Partnership in Ministry project.

Welcome and Devotional

Moderator Barry Plett welcomed delegates. Ralph Unger, interim pastor at host Braeside EMC, drew from 1 Kings 7, early Anabaptist history, and early EMC missions history to focus on being risk-takers. Are we passionate about reaching others? Our mandate is not over, Unger said.

General Board

The moderator said a Sustainable Funding Committee will research EMC giving patterns, ways to generate funds, new budgeting models, and improve communication and connections with EMC donors. It will operate through 2019 and report at council in summer 2020.

The board sought permission to explore not holding convention in 2021 in order to encourage EMCers to attend MWC’s general assembly in Indonesia. Conference

28 The Messenger • January 2019

Moderator Barry Plett said a sustainable funding committee is researching giving patterns, ways, models, and connections.

News

Bill Rambo: May Holy Wanderings help us become more like Jesus.

Board of Church Ministries

Bill Rambo introduced Holy Wanderings: A Guide to Deeper Discipleship, a recently published three-year project of the EMMC, CMC, and EMC. May the Lord use it to assist us to become more like Jesus with each other and to share the good news that the world needs, he said.

In a promotion causing much laughter, Russell Doerksen said conference pastor Layton Friesen’s Master of Theology thesis will help shape sermons, Sunday School lessons, and more. Friesen replied, “Wow! Now I can only disappoint you.” He was raised to think that Anabaptism was the “culmination” of the Reformation, yet wondered why, then, were Anabaptists the most hated people in Europe. Suspecting there was more to the story, he explored the threat they posed. The BCM intends to publish the thesis.

Cyndy Warkentin said that the Mental Health Initiative is completing its year-long task, but remains open to assisting churches where requested. Kim Muehling, chair, said the BCM will focus in 2019 and probably beyond to assist churches in how to think, disagree, and decide in a healthy way. Its efforts do not replace the EMC’s Harmony Document, but will seek to provide practical help through articles.

Brad Brandt, chair, highlighted a proposed change to the missionary support model: workers in Bolivia, Mexico, and Paraguay will raise, in a phased-in process, 40% of their support by 2022. Giving to EMC missions is down while giving to projects is up; the number of workers on fully-administered fields might not be sustainable yet the number of associate workers is increasing.

Funding affects recruitment. The question is not whether change will happen, but what model is best amid giving realities in the EMC. The positives are the BOM still provides 60%, a more engaged support base for workers, and a higher awareness of missions, he said.

The BOM requested a vote by ballot with at least twothirds in favour for the proposal to be approved. The vote was held and the proposal was approved.

Mennonite Foundation of Canada

Harold Penner, stewardship consultant, shared a video with stories of how people were helped in how they give.

He then spoke of people, their generosity, plans, and charities.

Inspiring Partners in Ministry

Co-chairs Darren Plett (Pleasant Valley) and Erica Fehr (Kleefeld) said the formal discussion of women in ministry had been set aside for years, more recently because of the Statement of Faith review. A recent survey determined that telling stories of women in service was a key need.

Flo Friesen then shared the story of Cathy Thiessen who for seven years within a much longer career in Mexico, Cathy travelled from Chihuahua city to serve as pastor in four smaller churches. They were, Flo said, the best years of Cathy’s life where she could do that for which she was divinely gifted: to lead, preach, and teach.

Board of Missions

Sandra Plett (Ridgewood) reported on her ministry in Guadalajara, Mexico, with the Matthew Training Centre.

Ken Zacharias, director of Global Outreach, introduced Benny and Ester Fehr (Mount Salem) who will serve in Bolivia in radio ministry, Alex Reimer (Prairie Grove) with Greater Europe Mission, and James and Maria Wahl (St. Vital) who will serve in El Salvador.

Flo Friesen spoke of Cathy Thiessen's work as Gerald Reimer listened.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 29

News

Gord Penner: SBC is more diverse culturally than some people realize.

Gerald D. Reimer, earlier a youth worker in Mexico, spoke of having served with and under the direction of Cathy. She was both a mentor and a colleague. He valued her input and that of Alvira Friesen, another worker in Mexico. He did not sense any personal agenda being forced on others; they served out of a call of Christ in their context. They still have his respect and influenced him in ways for which he praises the Lord.

The question was raised: how can we support and encourage women like Cathy in their church leadership at home and abroad?

Steinbach Bible College

Gord Penner, a professor and an EMC minister, said SBC seeks to have multicultural graduates in meaningful vocations who make disciples. Its Leadership Conference is on March 14-16 with Dr. Gus Konkel speaking on a biblical view of suffering. (He said, in an aside, that a Young Adult Retreat will be held on March 8-10 at Camp Cedarwood with Layton Friesen speaking on a faith worth dying for.)

at the end of 2019; Charlie received a round of applause for his work.

Layton Friesen, conference pastor, said churches have suffered the loss of pastors; all have interim pastors. A dozen pastors will be needed in 2019, but God will bring leaders from inside and outside of the EMC. He’s engaging with young pastors in an online study group that deals with spiritual formation, self-care, emotional and cultural intelligence, marriage and family, and leadership and management skills. (Pastors can decide if they are young enough.) He encouraged board chairs to provide oversight of pastors, including asking about their prayer life (which is part of the pastor’s work). The board seeks to strengthen the ordination process.

Board of Trustees

Gord Reimer, chair, said the EMC budget needs $526,242 by year’s end, which is $100,000 more than is usually received in December. The board has been involved with a Sustainable Funding Strategy and an upgrade to the conference benefits plan.

The BOT had proposed a 2019 budget of $1,899,000, the same as in 2018. However, boards sought an increase of $19,000. The BOT decided to present three options: leave the budget unbalanced, approve an increase in giving, or request boards trim the budget by $19,000, he said. Delegates voted in favour of increasing the proposed budget. A budget of $1,918,000 was then approved by a separate vote.

– Terry M. Smith Editor’s note: There was much discussion. Some of it can be found online in the longer version of this article.

Board of Leadership and Outreach

Richard Klassen, chair, said the counseling benefit for clergy now provides up to $500 per year with greater freedom on counselors used. The minister’s manual is being revised.

Charles Koop, director of church planting, says the Church Planting Task Force is active and needs one more member. There are church plants happening, others being considered, and new churches that plant other churches excite him. Much of the outreach is to newcomers to Canada. Richard Klassen said that Charlie Koop will retire

30 The Messenger • January 2019

Vice moderator Ward Parkinson and Board of Trustees chair Gord Reimer guided the discussion about the 2019 EMC budget.

News

TRU 2018 – Time in Community Was a Highlight For Me

LLOYD & CAROL LETKEMAN

CAITLIN DYCK

CAMP CEDARWOOD, Man.—I’ve had multiple opportunities to attend retreats in the past; they’ve always been something to look forward to. Retreats have always given me chances to unplug, relax, and focus on my relationship with Jesus that don’t always occur otherwise.

I’m happy to report that I, as well as many others that I spoke with, were able to do the same during TRU 2018.

TRU is the biennial youth leaders’ retreat for our conference, and this year included groups from as far away as Alberta and B.C. I personally had not been involved in youth ministry since 2010/2011 and had never attended TRU The time to rest, relax, talk, and play games with others was very valued. before. Together we met at Camp Cedarwood to share meals, times of worship and knowledge with one another that we may then give to others?” It was a question for the in the form of Saturday morning workshops, as well as weekend ahead, but also for the coming year of youth. informal times spent in conversation.

On Saturday morning we had the opportunity to learn Lloyd and Carol Letkeman (MB Mission), whom many from local leaders and speakers in our conference on topmight know from their work with SOAR Heartland, a ics such as Surviving Life with Annoying People and Blind youth missions program in Winnipeg, were kind enough Spots in Ministry, to name a few. I chose to attend the to spend the weekend with us, sharing on the theme Are workshop on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury as well as ExperiencYou Thirsty? Both Carol and Lloyd taught during our daily ing God. In our work with youth, there are occasions when sessions, inviting us to revisit passages in John when Jesus we need to support students through mental health issues spoke about living water. that could result in them self-injuring. Heidi Dirks was In John 7:37-38, Jesus invited people: “If anyone thirsts, able to walk us through some of the underlying issues and let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, give us advice on how to best support our youth in those as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers difficult times. of living water.’” Carol challenged us on Friday night, askThrough my conversations with my own church team ing, “What do we need to lay down, in order to receive, so as well as others, I found that many of us had similar goals for the weekend. We had all looked forward to the time to bond with one another; on youth nights we are often so busy leading and talking to the youth that we don’t have much time to get to know one another. The time to rest, relax, talk, and play games with others was very valued.

The time was also useful for sharing between other groups, to find the similarities and differences of how they run their youth nights, and even to compare how different our demographics are depending on location. That time spent in community was certainly a highlight for me, as well as the opportunity to refocus our goals for the youth this coming year.

– Caitlin Dyck Carol and Lloyd Letkeman taught during our daily sessions.

Caitlin Dyck is a volunteer youth leader at Steinbach EMC.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 31

In Memory

Peter J. Thiessen

1931-2018 Peter J. Thiessen passed into the presence of his heavenly Father on Dec. 8, 2018, at the Portage General Hospital at the age of 87.

He leaves to mourn his passing his loving wife of 66 years, Susie; his children, Mary Ann (Terry) Smith, Beverly (Leonard) Funk, daughter-inlaw Debbie Thiessen, Jerry (Sherry) Thiessen, Randy Thiessen, Karen (Ken) Nicholls, and Laura McLeod; as well as grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, Cory (Dana) Thiessen, Ella, Owen and Hazel; Marcie (Jeff ) Rudyk, Riley and Joshua; Kristen Funk, Tarryn and Noah; Tracy (Kyle), Sierra, Avery, and Michael; Jon, Derek; Alex (Colleen), Ashley (Curtis), Riley, Lucas, and Lexi; Kass (Michael); Kenneth, Huxley; Tessa; Laurie, Bailey, Brooklyn; as well as many extended family and friends.

Dad was born in Gnadenthal, Man., on Sept. 17, 1931, to John and Agatha Thiessen, the second of eight children; his siblings were Tina (Ben Harder), John (Ann Neudorf ), Agatha (Cornie Funk), Henry (and Connie), Susie (Elmer Loewen), Ben (Annie Neufeld), and Martha (Henry Thiessen). He was predeceased by his parents, some siblings and in-laws,

32 The Messenger • January 2019

son Larry, grandson Darrell, and granddaughter Desiree.

His earliest years were spent on a farm in the Winkler area, but he grew up on a farm in the Gladstone area. In 1950 he met the love of his life, Susie Peters, and they were married on July 20, 1952. His early work with the CNR saw them move around, but they finally settled down by farming in the Mayfeld area.

When his health made it necessary to sell the farm, Dad and Mom moved to Sidney. Dad worked in metal fabricating before opening MacGregor Metals, a business developed with his sons and where some of his grandchildren became involved. Dad and Mom later moved to Austin and, when the garden and yard became too much, to Regency House in Portage la Prairie.

Dad worked at many jobs: from milk deliveryman to CNR worker, farmer and welder, in a potato plant, and as a gardener. He always said he was “a jack of all trades and master of none.”

With Dad there was time to meet new people and learn new things. He shared his love of nature and peppermints. He loved to see each child, grandchild, and great-grandchild; he truly believed they were blessings from God. Dad loved to work for the Lord. He helped found Carberry (now Valley View) Bible Camp. He did everything from serving as board chairman to handyman to cook. Dad went to Mexico to help build a Christian school; he did a lot of wiring.

One thing always remained and that was love for his heavenly Father.

For the past few years he had attended

Portage Evangelical Church.

Today he can say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Tim. 4:7-8).

Dad’s funeral was held on Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, at 11 a.m. in the MacGregor EMC with pastors Colin Bell (Austin Evangelical Fellowship) and Glenn Loewen and Les Kroeker (Portage Evangelical Church) involved.

Donations can be made to Valley View Bible Camp or a charity of one’s choice.

– His Family

Calendar Canada February 17 Day of Prayer

Manitoba March 8-10 Young Adult Retreat

Alberta May 17-20 Abundant Springs Caronport, Sask.

Shoulder Tapping With any applications for EMC church pastoral positions, candidates are expected to also register a Ministry Information Profile with the EMC Board of Leadership and Outreach, which can be obtained through Erica Fehr, BLO Administrative Assistant, at efehr@emconference.ca or 204-326-6401.

Additional EMC Openings Often there are more churches looking for senior, associate, youth, and interim pastors than are identified on this page. For information on additional openings, contact Conference Pastor Layton Friesen (lfriesen@emconference.ca); Director of Youth and Discipleship Gerald D. Reimer (greimer@emconference.ca); and Director of Church Planting Charles Koop (ckoop@emconference.ca). The national office phone number is 204-326-6401. Talk with Erica Fehr, Church leadership assistant to the BLO, to request a cell number for a particular person.

EMC Positions* The Evangelical Fellowship Church in Steinbach, Manitoba, is seeking a full-time lead pastor. We are a medium-sized congregation that desires to be challenged to grow deeper in faith. Areas of emphasis are prayer, Seniors, Youth and Spanish ministries.

The candidate should have a Bible college degree. Experience is an asset. Responsibilities include preaching, teaching, discipleship, and care-giving.

The candidate should be prepared to work as part of a team with the Associate Pastor and the Elder board.

Those who are interested can send questions and resumes to efcpastoralsearch@gmail.com.

Steinbach Evangelical Mennonite Church, in southern Man., seeks a director of children’s ministry to provide leadership in programs such as: oversee/ provide vision, direction, and support children’s ministries outside of Sunday School; develop and pursue the vision of building faith at home; investigate and implement potential new programs (i.e., mid-week programs, etc.). The gift of administration is considered an asset.

Submit resumes and cover letters as soon as possible to Chair of Search Committee, 422 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 or searchcomm@semconline.com Braeside EMC, located on Munroe Avenue in East Kildonan, Winnipeg, Man., is launching a search for a full-time senior pastor. Our congregation strives to make and be disciples of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Braeside is largely made up of multicultural attendees and we are seeking to reach farther into our

church’s surroundings with the message of Christ.

If you are interested in applying for the position or need further initial information, please contact the Search Committee in care of jwk@gmail.com.

Fort Garry EMC is seeking a full-time senior pastor for an established, dynamic congregation. We are an inter-generational, ethnically diverse congregation, located in Winnipeg, Man., near the University of Manitoba, with a strong ministry to English-language learners. Working out of their own commitment to the Lordship of Christ, the ideal candidate is a gifted speaker who would lead and collaborate with the pastoral team, discerning and pursuing God’s purpose in our church. They possess a reputable theological education at the graduate level and are committed to a theology shaped by Anabaptist tradition. Submit queries and résumés to the Pastoral Search Committee at fgemcpastoral2018@gmail. com. Further info: fortgarryemc.radiantwebtools. com/about/careers/ Taber EMC, in southern Alberta, seeks a full-time senior pastor to lead our congregation. We are a church with an average attendance of 200 people.

Our congregation consists primarily of young Mennonite families who are fluent in Low German and English. Our services are being held in English.

The ability to speak Low German is helpful. Relevant education and experience are assets. For more information, call 403-634-9389. Resumes can be sent to taberemcpsc@gmail.com.

Evangelical Fellowship Church of Fort Frances, Ont., seeks a pastor to come alongside the congregation as we minister to each other and our community. We are open to the options of a part- or full-time pastor. We are a diverse congregation and this we see as a strength. If you have a heart for the lost, a clear understanding of God’s Word, leadership experience, and would enjoy working with our Church Board and Elders, contact us. Fort Frances is an area of great opportunity for “letting your light shine.” This may be where your next big adventure for God is waiting.

Please send your resume to johanneslgerber@gmail. com or leave a message at 807-274-2328.

Steinbach Evangelical Mennonite Church, in southern Man., seeks a director of children’s ministry to provide leadership in programs such as: oversee/provide vision, direction, and support children’s ministries outside of Sunday School; develop and pursue the vision of building faith at home; investigate and implement potential new programs (i.e., mid-week programs, etc.). The gift of administration is considered an asset.

Submit resumes and cover letters as soon as possible to Chair of Search Committee, 422 Main St.,

Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 or searchcomm@semconline.com Stony Brook Fellowship, a multi-generational EMC congregation in Steinbach, Man., is seeking a fulltime pastor. Our pastor will be retiring in the new year and we need a pastor to come alongside us as we minister to each other and our community.

SBF is a church of about 100 attendees. Successful candidates will join us in accomplishing our purpose statement: to worship God and study His Word in the context of discipleship and nurturing fellowship while introducing and reintroducing others to a relationship with God. Our goal is to reach the overchurched and the under-churched. Contact Emery Plett emery.plett@gmail.com Kola EMC, a rural congregation, is seeking a full time senior pastor. Our beloved pastor will be retiring this spring and we are in need of a new shepherd.

Kola EMC is a church of about 100 attendees with many young families and children. This closely knit community is located just south of Highway One on the Man./Sask. border. Successful candidates will preach regularly, visit and support individuals in the congregation, advise ministerial boards, lead or organize small groups, initiate growth and development and outreach. Please submit your resume or questions regarding the position to Adam Bajus at littlecreek@hotmail.ca or to Kola EMC, c/o chairman, Box 2, Kola, MB R0M 1B0

Other Openings Inner City Youth Alive (ICYA) is a faith-based charity with a mission to bring hope and a future through Christ to youth and their families in the inner city.

ICYA provides a safe, active and nurturing environment for children and youth in Winnipeg, Man., many of whom experience poverty, abuse, and neglect.

We are in need of new team members to help fill various program and administration positions. If you feel called to work with inner city families or know someone who may be interested, please visit www. icya.ca/careers-volunteering. Questions? Contact us: 204-582-8779 or karen@icya.ca Interested in writing as a columnist for The Messenger? We are seeking someone to provide at least six columns of 500 words. Topics are quite but not totally open. Please provide sample of work, information on background and education, and describe active church connection. Information and questions can be directed to the editors at messenger@emconference.ca and 204-326-6401.

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 33

Column • People Of Faith

My Dad Looked for the Best in Everyone

Betty Koop with Glen

Do we as followers of Christ need to be more dedicated in looking for the good in other people, rather than simply labeling them at first glance?

34 The Messenger • January 2019

EMC ARCHIVES

I

stood in my office at the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Medicine, shocked and also puzzled at the same time. One of the professors had just explained something about a colleague by saying in a most denigrating way, “But he’s a Jew!” Couldn’t get my mind around that. How did that explain anything? How did that explain his colleague’s actions or intentions?

This was back in the late '50s and I had recently started my first secretarial job in the Big City. I grew up in a home where my father and minister, Abe P. Unger (Prairie Rose), modeled Christianity in his daily living. No, he wasn’t perfect, but his attitude toward people was to look for the best in everyone.

And that included Jewish people.

There was a fruit peddler who came around regularly; he was a Son of Abraham, as my father might have put it. He was always welcomed and treated with respect. Dad would invite him in for a chat. He was genuinely interested in this man and his beliefs.

I remember hearing Dad ask if he knew from which of the Twelve Tribes he had come. Dad seemed disappointed when this man explained that today most Jews did not know their “tribe of origin,” except maybe the rabbis who might be of the Tribe of Levi.

To my father, the Jews were people to be especially honoured. After all, Jesus was born into a Jewish home and thus all His relatives were to be treated with respect and love.

The professor I mentioned above had emigrated from one of the countries annexed by Hitler during World War II. He seemed to have picked up the anti-Semitism that was so dreadfully preached and brutally carried out during that time. I still remember how his face twisted in utter disgust as he said the word Jew. That’s what caused my shocked reaction. And maybe I was just a bit curious as to why he would feel that way.

We hear and read these days that anti-Semitism is coming to the fore again with such tragic results.

Do we as followers of Christ need to be more dedicated in looking for the good in other

Abe P. Unger

people, rather than simply labeling them at first glance? Are we modeling Christ’s love in our day-to-day lives? Are our children and grandchildren being raised to be as “innocent” as I was in matters of bigotry and racism?

I will always be thankful for the lessons learned by observing the life of my father. There are more lessons to learn from my father, and I trust it will give us some food for thought as we journey down memory lane.

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Column • Stewardship Today

Just Imagine

J

that there isn’t enough for everyone and that we must hoard what we have accumulated. Unlike the boy who shared his loaves and fishes, we may not take risks because we’re afraid to lose what little we have. That type of thinking (a scarcity mentality) is distinguished by anxiety and fear. We wonder if we have enough, and we’re afraid someone else will take it from us.

Generous people, on the other hand, have a different point of view: An abundance mentality. As Christians, we know we should not put our faith and hope in money and resources. God owns it all and has more than enough to meet our needs.

The single most effective tactic to help foster an abundance mentality is to share what you have. The boy in John’s gospel could have kept his food for himself. Instead, he witnessed a miracle of provision for those in need. Many of us spend much of our lives with a scarcity mentality. It can be challenging to think differently, but making the shift has rich rewards. Indeed, those who think there is enough for all experience more peace and happiness.

At Abundance Canada, we have resources to help start the conversation and to encourage you in your decision to be generous. Giving Your First Fruits is a great starting place. Your Will & Estate Planning Guide provides practical information about end-of-life gifts. If you’d like to share your questions, dreams or hopes with someone, ask how we can help.

by Sherri Grosz

Share what you have.

Sherri Grosz is a gift planning consultant at Abundance Canada serving generous people in Ontario and eastern provinces. For more information contact your nearest Abundance Canada office or visit abundance.ca.

ISTOCK

ust imagine you are there, sitting on the hillside, listening to Jesus. It’s past mealtime and your stomach starts to rumble, but his words mesmerize you, and you don’t want to leave. You notice the disciples talking together and gesturing to the crowd. Then you see a boy approach and offer a small bundle. You watch Jesus open the bundle, offer a prayer and begin to pass out the food. You know it won’t reach all the way to you; it is just a small bundle after all.

What a surprise when your neighbour passes some bread and then some fish! Then more comes. Then still more. You eat and pass some along to the people beside you. Before long, the murmur of the crowd rises again as they had all eaten their fill. Baskets are passed around to gather the leftovers. You recall the small bundle of food the boy had shared. How is it possible that so many baskets of leftovers had been gathered? Truly a miracle!

I love the story of the loaves and fishes found in John 6:1-14 and the boy in the story fascinates me. He is confident and independent enough to approach the disciples and to offer what he has.

Is he old enough to realize that what he has isn’t enough to feed so many? Are his parents anxious about him giving away their meal? I often wonder where he learned to be generous.

I am privileged to speak with many people about their charitable giving, both during their lifetime and through their estate. Most say that they learned to give as children. Some came to Canada after the war and, despite not having any extra, their parents still found something to give to those in need. Others recall growing up in comfort and their parents giving generously to those who had less. Many credit the church for teaching them to live simply and to share generously. Some are a bit surprised, and perhaps a little embarrassed, that they have so much.

Others are delighted that they can share generously with their church and other causes that are important.

Whether you have a lot or a little in this world, it can be a challenge to choose to share beyond your immediate family. Culture tells us

www.emcmessenger.ca • The Messenger 35

Column • Kids’ Corner

Something Old, Something New

by Loreena Thiessen

ISTOCK

J

anuary is about new things. A brand new year has begun, 2019. The old year, 2018, is in the past.

A new year is exciting. A fresh new snow fall makes everything around you look new. You look forward to what the New Year will bring.

You may already have new things, new mitts, a new scarf, and a new toque. Perhaps some new toys and books.

Now you’re back in school. A new term has begun. Perhaps you’ll make a new friend. You may learn a new skill. You’ll read a new book.

And this year you’ll have another birthday. You’ll be a whole year older.

New things are exciting. But what about the old things? They are not gone. They remain as important as ever. What are these old things?

First, there are old buildings. Old buildings tell us of a certain time. They have history. What was happening when they were built? Why was a particular building built? Was it an important business that helped the community to grow?

What is the style of the building, the architecture or design? What were the materials used to build it? Was it stone, or wood? All of these tell us about that time, perhaps long ago now.

Then there are old stories. Old stories you may have heard many times before. They make you feel good because you know them well. Maybe you feel you are a part of the story because you have experienced something similar. Take, for example, the stories of Winnie the Pooh. You may have had your own stuffed animal you took with you wherever you went. You

thought of it as real, a real companion. You may have created stories about it.

Sometimes old things become new again.

This means they have a new use. Look through a collection of old buttons. Your grandmother may have some. Is there a particularly pretty or unique button? Put it on a ribbon and wear it as a necklace. An old button can become a board game piece to replace a lost one. An old bottle can be used as a vase. An egg carton can be used to organize and store small items like a pin collection or stickers. Do you have old Christmas decorations? Each one will have a back story.

How old is it? Where did you get it? Why is it still important to you?

Old things connect you to the past, to your history. They help build your story; they are a part of who you are, and what’s important to you.

What about old sayings? Old sayings have wisdom. They are as true now as they ever were.

For example, Smiles are free, but they are worth a lot. Or this one, A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. Both of these are to encourage you and show what has value.

There are many old sayings in the Bible that are important. One is in Activity: Find an old item.

James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to lisNeed: an old item, camera, drawing paper, pencil crayons ten, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”

Do: Choose one item that is old and is important to you.

Proverbs 19:20 says, “LisWhat is its story? Find out what it was used for? Where did it come from? Who owned it? ten to advice and accept Why was it important? You may want an adult to help you. instruction and in the end Take a picture of it or draw it. you will be wise.”

Find a new use for it.

New things are exciting.

But what about the old things? They are not gone.

36 The Messenger • January 2019

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