The Canadian Lutheran - July/August 2016 by The Canadian Lutheran

The

CANADIAN

LUTHERAN

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Fix Your Eyes on Jesus

Volume 31 Number 4

Improve learning environments in Jordan “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

The ongoing conflict in Syria has resulted in many people having to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring countries. In Jordan, you can help schools respond to the increased number of students by supporting school rehabilitation and school staff training. Your support will help renovate and repair school buildings and washrooms in Jordan so that students have safe and healthy places to learn and play. Your gift will provide water conservation, hygiene and health training for teachers and school advisors so that they can help their students stay healthy and do well in their studies. Thank you for your support!

Yes! I want to help children in Jordan have a safe and healthy place to learn and play. Here is my gift for: Building renovations and repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250 Teacher and school advisor training Where needed most

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Contents Features www.canadianlutheran.ca Volume 31 Number 4 July/August 2016

Driven from Distraction The Joy of the Lord: Proclaiming Law and Gospel in a Secular Age Lutheran Youth Gather in St. Catharines

6 8 10

Departments Table Talk

Blind Men Groping for Light

In Review

X-Men: Apocalypse

Saints of the Reformation

Frederick the Wise

Presidential Perspective

A Place for Comfort

News Section International News T h e C a n a d i a n L u t h e r a n is the national publication of Lutheran Church–Canada, published in Winnipeg six times per year: January/ February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/ October, November/December under the auspices of the Board of Directors (Committee for Communication and Technology). ISSN #0383-4247 Member: Canadian Church Press Editor: Mathew Block Advertising: Iris Barta District News Layout: Marion Hollinger Cover Art: iStock.com/Roberto A. Sanchez Subscriptions: $20/yr E-mail: bcs@lutheranchurch.ca

All material and advertising should be in the office of The Canadian Lutheran five weeks prior to publication date. Advertising rate card available upon request. The Canadian Lutheran 3074 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y2 Telephone: 204-895-3433 FAX: 204-832-3018 E-mail: communications@lutheranchurch.ca Materials published in The Canadian Lutheran, with the exception of Letters to the Editor, news reports, and advertising, receive doctrinal review and approval before publication. Contents of supplements are the responsibility of the organization purchasing the space. ©2016 Lutheran Church–Canada. Reproduction of a single article or column for parish use does not require the permission of The Canadian Lutheran. Such reproductions, however, should credit The Canadian Lutheran as the source.

LCMS reelects Matthew Harrison • Former LCMS President enters rest • LCC, LCMS, and NALC leaders release joint statement

National News

Christian doctors challenge assisted suicide regulations • Interim Pastoral Leader for Alberta/B.C. concludes service

ABC District

Bulletin artwork makes an impact • LWMLC District Convention • CLWR invites proposals for Fort McMurray

Central District

Camp Lutherland • Rev. DJ Kim installed as Moose Jaw chaplain • Northwestern Ontario hosts district women

East District

Fusion of Taste • VBS reports • LWMLC Ontario District convention • New Hamburg church building decomissioned

Mission Update

LCC holds fifth Intercultural Church Workers Conference • Rapid growth for Mozambique’s Lutherans

Education Report

CLS hosts weekend retreat • 2016 final year for Pastor’s Desk Diary • Robert Kolb to speak at “500 Years of Reformation” conference Classifieds Daily Bible Reading

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

relive the days of the Reformation

celebrate 500 Years!

faith

Martin Luther Statue, Dresden

On the Trail of Martin Luther 11 Days & 14 meals included

• See the famed Gutenberg Bible at the Gutenberg Museum. • Travel to Worms where Luther was declared an “outlaw.” • Visit Wartburg Castle, where Luther translated the New Testament into German. • Discover St. Thomas Church where Martin Luther preached. • Embark on a guided tour of Eisleben – site of Luther’s birth and death.

Relax and enjoy with our included sedan service and guaranteed departure dates! To book contact your local travel agent or call 800.468.5955. Travel Industry Council of Ontario Reg. # 3206405 BC Reg. # 23337

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Wartburg Castle

• Delight in a musical performance played on medieval instruments. • Join a church service in one of the Luther churches in Wittenberg. • Enjoy a tour and prayer service in the monastery, where Luther lived and studied.

Table Talk

Blind Men Groping for Light by Mathew Block Editor, The Canadian Lutheran

blind friend once shared with me the story of what it was like to go blind. She suffered from macular degeneration—a condition where you lose the ability to see in the centre of your visual field. Consequently, my friend kept some peripheral vision, but was nevertheless functionally (and legally) blind. As you can imagine, the transition was not easy. She had to learn to fold her paper money in different ways, so that she could quickly tell a $5 from a $50. Before she learned this trick, at least one unscrupulous store clerk took advantage of her inability to see (thankfully, Canadian currency now includes tactile features to help the blind identify money more easily). My friend likewise had to learn to listen for audible pedestrian signals at crosswalks and to use a white cane to sweep the path ahead. Even with tools like these, though, you can still make mistakes. While taking a class on navigating as a blind person, her instructor (also blind) inadvertently led her into a street. It took a seeing person to let them know and guide them back to the sidewalk. The Bible tells us that we are all blind—not physically, of course, but instead in a spiritual sense. “We hope for light, and behold, darkness,” the Prophet Isaiah writes, “and for brightness but we walk in gloom. We grope for the wall like the blind; we grope like those who have no eyes” (Isaiah 59:9-10). And why? “Our iniquities have made a separation between us and God, and our sins have hidden His face from us” (59:2). We are blinded by sin, so that righteousness is far from us and we

cannot see the love of God. Instead we grope in the darkness of this world, uncertain of our steps. And no matter how hard we try, we cannot force ourselves to “see.” We cannot simply will ourselves to be holy enough to find God on our own; our spiritual blindness is far too debilitating. We seldom even notice the danger we are in—blind men and women stumbling in the dark. Any step could lead to disaster. But we have grown accustomed to the darkness and are not bothered by it. In fact, we find the light irksome; it reveals things about ourselves—about our sin—that we would rather not remember. Better to keep to the shadows, lest some stray beam of sunshine reveal us for what we really are. Should such a spotlight fall on us, we may, spurred by the prick of conscience, suddenly realize the gulf between us and God. But how to get where He is? In the dark, all roads look the same. One man says go this way and another says go that way, but in the end we wind up nowhere. After all, “can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?” (Luke 6:39). The honest man must eventually stop walking and give up. On his own, he knows he is helpless. He can’t find His way. And so he sits down at the edge of the road and weeps. But then another Man enters the story. He comes forward and takes the blind man by the hand and raises him to his feet. He speaks a word, lays His hands on the clouded eyes, and suddenly what was once dark becomes clear. For this is Jesus, the Light of the World, and He has come

to open the eyes of the blind—to show them the Way back to God for He is the Way back to God. “Out of the gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see,” Isaiah prophesied (29:18). In Christ, the promise is realized. He comes as a Guide to bring us back to the Father from whom we have run in our blindness. “I will lead the blind in a way that they do not know,” He promises in the words of the prophet, “in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I do, and I do not forsake them” (Isaiah 42:16). God has not left us to wander aimlessly. He has sent His Son to shine upon us, to take our darkness into Himself and to destroy it at the cross. Bathed now in the light of the risen Christ, we make our way to the celestial city, led ever onward by the One who came to meet us in the dark and shadowy wilderness. To be sure, we still struggle with spiritual vision impairment in this life. But God has given us good guides to help us on the way. He sends us His Spirit to lead us into truth (John 16:13). He bestows upon us His Word to be a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). And He gives us our Christian sisters and brothers—fellow pilgrims on the Way—to help watch each other’s steps. Led on by Christ, then, let us go where He leads. And should we meet another blind man by the side of the road, let us introduce him to the One who opens eyes and restores sight to the blind.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Driven from Distraction by Michael Schutz

“H

e Looks into a River. What He Sees Next Will Amaze You!!!” If the Greek myth of Narcissus were written today, chances are that would be the headline. You know the phenomenon, right? A big, inviting headline that’s just daring you to click on it to find out more. There’s a word for it: clickbait. It’s the desperate attempt to pry your attention away from whatever you’re doing and turn it towards something that might make the media company in question a few cents. Perhaps you’re familiar with the story of Narcissus, in which a handsome young man sees his reflection in a completely still river. He becomes so enamoured with the reflection that he will not tear his attention away from it for anything, even for food or sleep, until finally he dies. It’s where we get the term narcissism, by which we generally mean “selfishness.” Most who know the story see it primarily as a warning against selfishness. But a man named Marshall McLuhan, writing in the 1960s, pointed out that there’s a small but critical piece of that story which unlocks its full meaning: though the reflection was indeed of his own face, Narcissus didn’t realize he was looking at himself. He thought it was some kind of beautiful water-spirit. So, McLuhan says, it wasn’t selfishness but “numbness” that caused Narcissus’ death. He was numb to the fact that the river was acting as a mirror. He failed to understand the true nature of the image he saw, and he died because of it. McLuhan sees this not as a failure of a message, but as a failure to understand the medium, which is the way in which the message is delivered. Properly understanding the effects of how messages are portrayed is the central point of McLuhan’s most famous work, Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man, where he

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

coins the phrase, “The medium is the message.” McLuhan argues that media (the plural of medium) are nothing more than extensions and amplifications of our selves. So electric light extends and amplifies daylight, which has dramatically reshaped our culture; the telephone extends your ear and voice beyond your physical location, allowing you to communicate over great distances; the wheel (and thus the car) extends and amplifies your foot’s ability to travel (you’re picturing Fred Flintstone right now, aren’t you?). Now, consider this idea in relation to today’s technology. The Internet extends anything we want to communicate with someone else. Blogs instantly amplify the written word across the world. Twitter extends not just pithy sayings and extremely short conversations, but news reporting. Facebook amplifies the simple birthday greeting across your network of friends, along with people you met once at a conference and old classmates who would barely remember you exist if not for the Internet. McLuhan argues that while these extensions and amplifications can be useful, they are not neutral; they affect both the social and physical realities of individuals and groups. His warning is that a person “becomes what he beholds,” and that if we aren’t aware of these effects, we are in danger of becoming like Narcissus in his folly. We who live in 21st century Canada have much to learn from the myth of Narcissus and McLuhan’s interpretation. Our world—especially the online world—is full of “still rivers” trying to draw our gaze. Apple wants their iPhone to be your constant companion for every task. Google wants you to turn to them every time you look something up online. Facebook wants to be the first ‘place’ you visit in the morning and the last before you sleep. Television, particularly in the

face of so much competition, is literally screaming at you in its programs and advertising to try to keep your attention. One of the best present-day examples of McLuhan’s warning about Narcissus’ true lesson is the selfie—a picture taken of oneself, maybe with others, maybe at a famous landmark. No matter how interesting the rest of the content, the focus is primarily on the self. We might shake our heads and mutter, “What a self-obsessed generation.” But Narcissus’ true fault wasn’t so much self-obsession as it was being obsessed with something he didn’t realize was simply an extension of himself. McLuhan bids us understand well that last point, which will prevent us from succumbing to Narcissus’ fate. Selfies aren’t so much about our own images as they are our projections into the world of what we want ourselves to be. The man who takes a selfie in front of the pyramids of Egypt isn’t so much promoting his actual face to friends, family, and the world as he is promoting his adventurous nature and travel habits. How about one more example? Chances are you’ve seen those now-ubiquitous “toe pics,” usually framed on a beach chair in some beautiful tropical location. McLuhan would tell us that those pictures aren’t truly about toes. The message isn’t, “Don’t my toes look nice?” but rather, “I took this picture on a smartphone from an exotic location, posting it online so all my followers can know how #blessed I am.” And, as it happens with so many trends, those toe pics are so popular now that they’re becoming objects of satire and scorn (McLuhan would call this “reversing”). When these kinds of obsessions build up, they inevitably implode because they’re simply not sustainable. Understanding this well leads us to see that one of our present dangers is that we actually are in danger of becoming what we might call “reverse narcissists.” It’s not so much that our attention is firmly fixed on one thing that will lead to our death; it’s that our attention is given to everything but the One who leads to everlasting life. And if we fail to realize that technology, which facilitates so much attention seeking, profoundly shapes not only what we pay attention to but how we are giving our attention, then we can end up starving ourselves not of earthly bread but of the Bread of Life. God is the One who truly had the first word on this whole idea. McLuhan took his concept of “becoming what we behold” straight from Psalm 115, even quoting it in his famous book. The Psalmist writes: “Why should the nations say, ‘Where is their God?’ Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases. Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see. They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do

not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound in their throat. Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them” (Psalm 115:2–8). The Psalmist then redirects his audience’s attention back to God: “O Israel, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield” (115:9). Likewise, St. Paul encourages us to set our minds on things above in view of the mercy we have in Christ (Colossians 3:1-4), and to focus by faith on whatever is good, right, true, noble, excellent, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). The writer to the Hebrews exhorts us to fix our eyes not on ourselves or the extensions of ourselves, but on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:1-2). We all need to have our attention redirected sometimes. Consider the story of Luke 10:38–42, where Jesus visits Mary and Martha’s home. Martha is busy doing all the good work of hosting a guest, and she becomes upset when she sees that Mary just sits at the feet of Jesus, listening to His teaching. In this story, Martha is called a word we see nowhere else in the New Testament: “distracted.” She wasn’t “narcissistic” in the popular selfish sense. But Martha did fail to recognize that she was focusing on the wrong things at that moment. She was doing good works, but in the presence of Jesus, the “good portion” is that which Mary chose by faith: to receive the word of Christ before anything else. Martha was n o t d i s t ra c t e d by something evil—she was serving Jesus! But faith comes through the Word of Christ, and only after the kindling and strengthening of faith come good works. Martha’s actions reflected the opposite understanding, leading her to frustration with Mary and distraction from Jesus. By contrast, Mary was worshipping in spirit and truth. By faith her attention was firmly fixed on the Word of her Lord and Saviour. So we too, as disciples of Jesus, receive the Gospel as of first importance. As we behold the lifegiving Word of the Gospel through faith, we are driven from distraction. And after we behold that Gospel, we can turn our attention outwards once again to the needs of our neighbours. In this age where so many things are clamouring for our attention, where we are tempted by so much media to fix our eyes anywhere but on Christ, the good portion is to hear, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest God’s life-giving Word. Immersed in God’s Word, we become less numb to the traps of the “still rivers” around us. The Holy Spirit opens our eyes and focuses them not on reflections of ourselves, but on Christ who has brought us from death to life.

As disciples of Jesus, we receive the Gospel as of first importance. As we behold the lifegiving Word of the Gospel through faith, we are driven from distraction.

Rev. Michael Schutz is Pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Penticton, British Columbia. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

The Joy of the Lord Proclaiming

LAW & Gospel in a Secular Age by Ken Maher

atching the news lately can be a dizzying experience. It seems like every day there is a new group of poor souls who are the victims of hatred, prejudice, and unfair treatment. With so many victim groups vying for our attention and redress it can be hard to keep up. People are being denied cakes and photos and weddings. Or worse, the right to use the bathroom. Women are being denied the most basic of health care. Others are being shown that their lives don't matter, or their deaths are not theirs to dictate. Foreigners are treated with fear and revulsion, being unfairly judged for the acts of just a few. And talking to our neighbours and co-workers about these very real and

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

very important issues can be a frustration and a fear for us Christiansâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;especially when we come to realize that there are those who want to blame it all on us. The charge goes like this: It is our stand for traditional marriage that belittles homosexuals. It is our belief that God created us male and female that leaves no protection for transsexuals. It is our Christian insistence that every life has worth, even life in the womb, that keeps women oppressed and firmly under the patriarchal glass ceiling. It is our plea that every life matters to God that degrades the life of those who suffer more (or differently) than us. It is our trust in God to dictate the number of our days that denies suicidal

people the mercy and dignity that comes with being the masters of our own death. It is our Christian worldview, claiming to have the truth, that fosters suspicion and distrust of other religious adherents. Everyone, it seems, is a victim but us Christians. And while we may be taken aback at just how fast things seem to be changing, we shouldn't be surprised. The fact is, it has never really been any different—nor would we expect it to be. A world not anchored by God is a world adrift in spiritual relativism and ever swelling moral outrage. It is the only kind of world we humans know how to build by ourselves. Paul described it perfectly in Galatians 5:19-21—“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” While the works and their results in our world may be all too evident to you or me, they are not so obvious to those who find their identity in being victimized. So the question becomes, what should the public witness of Christians be in a secular society like the one we currently inhabit? Sometimes Christian witness to public events and social issues is primarily reactionary—calling out the many sinful acts. And while such prophetic witness against moral decline is necessary, how do we make sure our profession of the Gospel takes centre stage? The answer, I believe, is in setting a different scene. Singing a different tune. Not playing the same game. Instead of righting this very broken world on its own broken terms we should be turning the world upside down once again. The Gospel of Jesus Christ has always been counter cultural. It speaks a different language. It calls for a different kind of life. It views the world in a wholly different light. And so should we. Consider again Paul's admonition from Galatians: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” Here is our counter culture. Here is the stuff that can turn this world of ours upside down. Here is a powerful blueprint for effective evangelism. Each one of these precious gifts of the Spirit is worth its own evangelism discussion, but for now let us start with Joy. Why joy? Because the one thing that binds together the countless victim groups and their wildly differing agendas is a lack of joy. To put it simply, there is no joy in the modern culture of victimhood. There can't be. There is lots of protesting, and even some celebration when your cause is recognized and your claim legitimized. But there can be no real joy. For new oppressors must be rooted out. New battles must be fought. New victims identified and rallied around. And through it all is the underlying question no one is willing to face: “With each new victory, why are things only getting worse?” We might as well ask why a bad

tree bears only rotten fruit. In a culture where everyone but Christians are victims no one can or will find joy—except, perhaps, those Christians themselves. Consider the Christian's joy of hard work, of family, and home. The joy of contentment and thankfulness. The joy of serving others and making sacrifices for those who need the help. Each can be a powerful witness to a deeper truth. Consider the disciples leaving the courts of the Sanhedrin bloodied and bruised but full of joy that they should be considered worthy to suffer for Christ. Remember Paul and Silas, wrongfully beaten and imprisoned for their compassion, singing and praying in joy through the night. Think of all the dear Christians leaving the gravesides of their loved ones, saddened but still full of joy at the hope of the resurrection to come. Christians have always found joy, even when the whole world is against us. Why? Because while we might suffer hatred, prejudice and unfair treatment, we are not victims. In all our struggles, in all our hardships, for all our sins and faults and shortcomings we are still more than conquerors in Christ Jesus. The same Jesus Christ who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, is seated today at the right hand of the throne of God. We are not victims, because Christ was. This is the good news that brings us great joy in an otherwise joyless world—a joy that when lived and proclaimed will turn this victimized world upside down. We have the joy of a God who reaches out to every last one of the excluded and the marginalized, by including Himself in our human frailty through the life of His only begotten Son born in our human flesh. We have the joy of His promise of perfect healing, not just the brokenness of our bodies, but more importantly, our hearts and souls as well. We have the joy of knowing that our life matters to God so much that He was willing to lay down His own life for us. And we have the joy of knowing that because Christ rose from the dead, death will not hold us either; we will rise with Him victorious forever. This does not mean we will not suffer, face trials, or be grieved. But it does mean that through the sustaining Word and Sacraments of Christ we have the joyous certainty that such things cannot ultimately make us victims. We have already conquered them in Christ. Our anchor to God in this fast changing and frustrating world is the joy of living in His enduring love through Jesus. In a world where the harder people work, the more victims there seem to be, where the expectations of so many are doomed to perish, we can still live a life of joy. Joy even in the midst of so much trouble. Joy that is firmly rooted in the promises of Christ the willing victim who makes each of us true victors. As the Psalmist declares so may we live and act and speak: “Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD. Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!” (Psalm 32:10). Rev. Ken Maher is Pastor of Christ our Hope Lutheran Church in Collingwood, Ontario. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Lutheran Youth Gath F

Youth study Scripture. (All photos: Nathan Lantz)

LCC musicians lead NYG participants in song during worship.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

rom July 8-12, 2016 Lutheran youth from across the country converged on the campus of Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario for Lutheran Church– Canada’s (LCC) 2016 National Youth Gathering (NYG). In total, more than 140 youth gathered for the event, the theme of which was “Living H2O,” drawn from the story of Jesus and the woman at the well: “Jesus said to her, ‘Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life’” (John 4:13-14). Dr. Micah Parker of Trustguy Ministries was back again this year to serve as a main presenter at the National Youth Gathering, as was LCC President Robert Bugbee. Youth spent six main sessions learning about how we receive the living water Jesus gives, addressing the topics of who gives living water, what it means to be created by living water, recreated by living water in baptism, to serve with living water, to be connected to living water, and to

her in St. Catharines share Jesus through living water. And it wasn’t just something they heard from main speakers—youth also broke into small groups for “H2O Breaks” to dig deeper into the topics themselves. Youth had the opportunity to explore other aspects of faith and life as well through a series of four breakout sessions. Topics ranged from relationships and pop-culture to apologetics and missions, with youth choosing from a wide variety of presenters and topics: Dating, Sex and Other Romantic Relationships (Lynn Gergens); The Uncertainty Principle—The Noting of ‘Doubting’ Our Faith (Geoff Kullman); I Wish I Could Take That Back (Micah Steiner); Aslan is on the Move!—The Christian Church and the Fine Arts (Michael Gillingham); From Adele to Zombies: Christianity & Pop Culture: Bacon & Bieber & Bourne (Dr. James Gimbel); Can You Trust the Bible? Responding to Cynics, Skeptics And Such (Dr. Tom Winger); So Many Ways to God? So Many Religions? (Rev. Roland Syens); Sharing Hope (Rev. Larry Gajdos); LWLMC— Mission Bucket List, Drop by Drop (Arlene Kish and Janice Buchner);

President Bugbee addresses the youth.

Youth beautify the grounds at Luther Manor. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Dr. Micah Park of Trustguy Ministries leads a breakout session.

iBods at this year’s gathering.

CLTS President Winger leads a breakout session.

These Guys entertain the gathering.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Keeping Your Faith in College/University and Beyond (Rev. Eric Moffett); CLWR – Unbend the Trend-Good Soil (Jennifer Ardon); Questions-Brokenness-How to Stop Hurting (Lynn Gergens); Faith in the Field (Micah Parker); Puttin on the Skits (These Guys). Youth leaders also had the opportunity to take some workshops dedicated just to them, with Leon Jameson leading “Don’t Survive, Thrive in Youth Ministry.” Through it all, the theme of living water was woven throughout the weekend, including in the worship for the gathering, with LCC musician Jennifer Jade Kerr writing and introducing the theme song for the event. The words of “Lifegiver” remind us that we “come to the water to receive what You offer. Only You can deliver. Lifegiver. You’re our Lifegiver.” “When we drink of the world, we just go back for more finding that we’re more thirsty than we were before,” one verse reads. “Your water’s different. It is living power. And it satiates us forever.” Kerr was joined by Kelti Malone, another talented LCC singer-songwriter, in leading worship music at the gathering, with Winnipeg LCC member Brian Layer on bass. Other presenters during the gathering included These Guys, an improvisational comedy trio bringing humour and insight to the day-to-day experiences of teenagers and adults. The gathering also benefited from the many “iBods” present— young adult volunteers who helped the event go smoothly under the direction of Phil Guebert. Being on the campus of Brock University also gave many youth the chance to explore pastoral ministry in a new light. Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) sits on the same campus, and seminary leaders were on hand to share their experiences in the pastoral ministry with interested young men. CLTS also hosted the youth gathering for a special breakfast event one of the mornings. Youth had the opportunity to give back to the seminary too: one of the gathering’s options for servant events included helping wash windows at the seminary and move bookshelves. Other options including visiting with seniors, dementia patients, and adults with special needs at a number of facilities; handing out flyers for a local Lutheran congregation’s upcoming Vacation Bible School; doing garbage pickup in St. Catharines; making quilts; doing yard work and cleaning for other various groups; and more. A highlight of the trip was the opportunity to visit Niagara Falls, where youth saw a dramatic example of water at its most powerful. When the flow is at its highest, more than 168,000 cubic metres (six million cubic feet) of water go over the falls’ crest line every minute. That kind of power can transform landscapes, carving deep chasms with its mighty flow. When combined with God’s Word, water can do even more impressive things: transform human hearts and bring the spiritually dead to life. That’s the message participants at this year’s youth gathering have taken home with them. May it equip them to share the living water of Jesus with friends and family there too!

International News www.canadianlutheran.ca

LCMS reelects Matthew Harrison S T. L O U I S , M i s s o u r i - The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has announced that Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison has been reelected as President. President Harrison was elected on the first ballot, receiving 56.96 percent of the votes cast. This is President Harrison’s third term, having first been elected to serve as president of the LCMS in 2010. “On behalf of our Canadian church, I offer congratulations to President Harrison and wish him energy and a strong faith in Christ for the new term,” said President Robert Bugbee of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC). “Leadership of the Missouri Synod is a heavy responsibility, and he has carried it out with real devotion. I am especially grateful for the ways in which he has encouraged our work in LCC, and his welcome support for the International

Lutheran Council. His years of experience in parish ministry and ability to speak the language of the grassroots are always in evidence. God bless our partnership in the coming three years!” Also nominated were Rev. Dr. Dale A. Meyer and Rev. Dr. David P.E. Maier, who received 36.66 percent and 6.38 percent of the votes respectively. News of President Harrison’s reelection came several weeks before the LCMS held its 2016 national convention. In the LCMS, presidential elections are held four weeks in advance of the national convention. Voting delegates from each congregation in the synod were invited to vote electronically from June 11-14, and the results of the election were made public June 15. The LCMS, an American church body with more than two million

President Matthew C. Harrison (Photo: LCMS Communications)

members, is Lutheran Church– Canada’s mother church.

European Lutheran Conference meets in Belgium expressed their intention to apply for B E L G I U M - From June 1-5, membership in the coming years. Lutherans from several European A special focus of this year’s Lutheran churches assembled in conference was the commemoration Antwerp, Belgium, for the 24 th of the 450 th anniversary of the European Lutheran Conference establishment of the first Lutheran (ELC), under the theme ‘Reformation congregation in Antwerp, which then … and now.’ was founded in 1566. From June The conference was attended by ELC member churches representatives from Belgium, Denmark, England, France, and Germany, as well as by guests from the Czech Republic, Finland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States of America. ELC member churches are members also of the International Participants at the 2016 ELC Conference. Lutheran Council. 2-3, the Evangelical Lutheran A keynote address on the Church in Belgium (ELKB) hosted conference’s theme was delivered by a n i n t e r n a t i o n a l c o n f e re n c e Dr. Werner Klän of Germany. An highlighting this event, organized opening service, morning devotions by ELKB President Gijsbertus van with Bible studies, and evening Hattem in cooperation with the prayers shaped the spiritual frame University of Antwerp, and held at of the conference. Several of the the Rubenianum. guest churches in attendance have

The conference was opened with two keynote lectures: “The International Dimensions of the Wittenberg Reformation” by Dr. Robert Kolb (Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri), and “Reformation Movements and the Wonderyear: the Antwerp Context” by Dr. Guido Marnef (University of Antwerp). The second day of the conference featured six additional lectures. The conference concluded with a walking tour through 16th Century Antwerp, ending with a reception at the Town Hall, where Mayor Bart De Wever welcomed the participants. The European Lutheran Conference concluded with Divine Service on June 5. ELKB President and local pastor Gijsbertus van Hattem led the liturgy, while President Leif Jensen of the Evangelical Lutheran Free Church in Denmark preached. The next conference of the ELC will be held in England in 2018.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

International News www.canadianlutheran.ca

Former LCMS President Bohlmann enters eternal rest

LCMS President Emeritus Ralph A. Bohlmann

ST LOUIS , Missouri – On July 24, 2016 Rev. Dr. Ralph A. Bohlmann was received into eternal rest at the age of 84. Dr. Bohlmann had served as President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) from 1981-1992, and was the first to be given the title President Emeritus. A funeral service was held July 24 on the campus of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. Prior to serving as LCMS President, Dr. Bohlmann served as President of Concordia Seminary from 1975-1981, after having served as professor of systematic theology there since 1960. Dr. Bohlmann was one of five seminary faculty members

who remained on the faculty during the confessional crisis over the authority of Scripture there in 1975, which resulted in the walkout of multiple faculty and students. Under his leadership, the school focused on resolving differences and encouraging doctrinal integrity. By the time his presidency came to an end, the seminary population was greater than that prior to the confessional crisis. LCMS President Matthew C. Harrison expressed the synod’s deep gratefulness to President Emeritus Bohlmann. “Ralph is the last of the faithful who stood against the faculty majority for the truth of the Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions,” President Harrison told the LCMS Reporter. “The Synod is deeply indebted to Dr. Bohlmann,” he added, “and all these years later, we can hardly imagine the difficulties and trials which faced the men who were faithful. Dr. Bohlmann was resolute on these issues to the end.” In addition to service as President of the LCMS and President of Concordia Seminary, Dr. Bohlmnan served as Executive Secretary of the church’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) from 1971-1974. He also served on the CTCR as a member from 19651971 and 1975-1981. Dr. Bohlmann was the author of “A Statement of Scriptural and Confessional Principles,” a

document which helped to ensure doctrinal fidelity in the seminary. It was later adopted by the LCMS in convention as a clear explanation of the Lutheran teaching on the authority of Scripture. Throughout his ministry, he was the author of a number of other books and articles, including Principles of Biblical Interpretation in the Lutheran Confessions. He also represented the synod in ecumenical dialogue with other church bodies. During his tenure as LCMS President, Dr. Bohlmann oversaw the Canadian church’s move to independence. At the 1986 LCMS Convention which voted on the transition, President Bohlmann noted the great fellowship between American and Canadian Lutherans. “We pledge our love,” he told the delegates of Lutheran Church– Canada that day, “The Lord of Faith in Jesus Christ is deeper than the devices of borders. We will continue the bond of faith and confession we have as Christ’s people. We will continue to consult with each other and continue a deep and meaningful worship in the work of the church. We do so with a note of joy.” President Emeritus Bohlmann is survived by two children Paul (New York City) and Lynn (Jacksonville, Illinois), as well as two grandchildren. Dr. Bohlmann’s wife, Pat, entered into glory in 2012.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

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International News www.canadianlutheran.ca

LCC, LCMS, and NALC leaders release Joint Statement on Scripture NORTH AMERICA - As an important step forward in the ongoing consultation between representatives of the Lutheran Church-Canada (LCC), The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS), and the North American Lutheran Church (NALC), the participants who represented the three church bodies are releasing their joint statement on Holy Scripture, “God’s Word forever shall abide: A Guiding Statement on the Character and Proper Use of the Sacred Scriptures.” Representatives of the three Lutheran church bodies have been meeting twice a year since late 2011, with conversations focused on similarities and differences, as well as topics of common concern. Discussion regularly addresses the challenge to marriage, sexuality, the sanctity of all human life and the challenge to religious liberty. From the beginning, however, the participants have been engaging in serious, in-depth conversation about the authority of Scripture which is foundational to the church bodies’ understandings of these other issues. The two most recent consultations, September 9-10, 2015 in St. Louis, Missouri and March 16-17, 2016 in Bradenton, Florida, resulted in the drafting of the common statement, understood as providing guidance to the participants in ongoing, future conversations. The introduction to the document states: We confess that the Bible is God’s written Word as part and parcel of our deepest confession—that Jesus Christ is the very Son of God, God incarnate, “very God of very God” and the Savior and Redeemer of all humankind. We confess that the Bible is God’s Word because its entire message is focused on Jesus Christ and His saving work. He is the heart and center of Scripture and the key to its true meaning.

Participants in the ongoing consultations between leaders of the LCMS, LCC, and NALC have been the Rev. Dr. Albert Collver III (LCMS), Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer (LCMS), the Rev. Larry Vogel (LCMS), the Rev. John Pless (LCMS), the Rev. (President) Robert Bugbee (LCC), the Rev. (Bishop) John Bradosky (NALC), the Rev. Mark Chavez (NALC), the Rev. Dr. Jim Nestingen (NALC), the Rev. Paull Spring (NALC) and the Rev. Dr. David Wendel (NALC). Download the Joint S t a t e m e n t a t w w w. canadianlutheran.ca/wpcontent/uploads/2016/07/LCCLCMS-NALC-Statement-onScripture.pdf. Topical sections of the statement address: How did the Bible Get Here; What Kind of Book is the Bible; Suitable Methodology of Interpretation; and Proper Use of the Bible. The statement is a reflection of the consensus of the participants and not an official document or doctrinal statement approved by any one of the three church bodies. It is intended to serve as a guideline for further joint study by the representatives and by other groups within the three denominations who are seeking to know more about each other. It is also hoped that it may help pastors and congregations seeking to know more about the confessional Lutheran understanding of the truth and authority of Scripture on which the LCMS, LCC and NALC are founded. The statement concludes: We rejoice in our consensus in these truths. We pray that our shared understanding will be a sure and solid foundation for us to address future conversations and discussions, both in matters of agreement and areas where we do not share a common teaching or practice. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

National News www.canadianlutheran.ca

Christian doctors challenge Ontario regulations on assisted suicide CANADA - A coalition representing thousands of Christian doctors across Canada are challenging regulations in Ontario that would require them to participate in the provision of physician assisted suicide. The Christian Medical and Dental Society of Canada, the Canadian Federation of Catholic Physicians’ Societies, and Canadian Physicians for Life—members of the Coalition for HealthCARE and Conscience—are calling for an expedited judicial review of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)’s guidelines, arguing physicians’ charter rights to freedom of conscience and religion are being impinged. The CPSO is requiring physicians who oppose assisted suicide to nevertheless participate in it by referring patients to another doctor willing to perform the procedure. The Christian medical associations challenging the CPSO’s policies represent more than 5,000 physicians and 100 healthcare facilities across the country. “The current approach of the CPSO demands that doctors set aside their morals and go against their conscience to directly refer for assisted suicide,” said Larry Worthen, a member of the Coalition and the Executive Director of the Christian Medical and Dental Society of Canada. “In our view, effective referral and participating in assisted suicide are morally and ethically the same thing.” “By requiring effective referral, the CPSO is forcing people of conscience and faith to act against their moral convictions,” Executive Director Worthen continued. “This threatens the very core of why they became physicians, which is to help to heal people. This is discrimination. It is unnecessary.” The coalition notes that there are alternative ways to provide physician assisted suicide, without requiring opposing doctors to refer. “Protecting conscience

rights of health practitioners wo u l d re q u i re only minor accommodations, such as allowing patients direct access to an assessment or allowing complete transfer of care to another physician,” the coalition writes. The province of Alberta, for example, has set up a separate centre to process physician assisted suicide requests. The federal government passed legislation on June 14 that will a l l ow a d u l t s f a c i n g t e r m i n a l illnesses for whom imminent death is reasonably foreseeable, the ability to seek a doctor’s assistance in committing suicide. The legislation is more conservative than an earlier parliamentary report, which had encouraged opening assisted suicide to children and youth, as well as to those suffering from mental health issues. It also encouraged allowing dementia patients the ability to make advance requests for assisted suicide. The legislation notes that physicians have the right to freedom of conscience and are not required to participate in assisted suicide, but left the details of the provision of physician assisted suicide to the provinces—a decision which made challenges from conscientious objectors inevitable. A number of provinces have recently moved to restrict the rights of physicians on moral issues, arguing that doctors should be obligated to provide an effective referral for procedures—like abortion and assisted suicide—that they decline to provide themselves. Last year, Lutheran ChurchCanada joined Catholics, Evangelicals, and other Canadian religious leaders in issuing a declaration on euthanasia and physician assisted suicide, opposing t h e p ra c t i c e s a n d c a l l i n g f o r

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

greater support for palliative care in Canada. The declaration also encouraged freedom for healthcare professionals with conscience concerns on euthanasia and physician assisted suicide. Lutherans can find additional pro-life resources at Lutherans for Life-Canada’s website (www. lutheransforlife-canada.ca)and on the website of their American counterpart (www.lutheransforlife. org).

ADVERTISE HERE! The Canadian Lutheran sells advertising space to help offset the cost of printing and shipping the magazine to congregations and subscribers. Classified space is sold at $0.45 per word, minimum 50 words ($22.50). To purchase classified space, or to receive a rate card for other advertising opportunities with The Canadian Lutheran, please email pres_sec@ lutheranchurch.ca or call 1-800-588-4226.

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Interim Pastoral Leader for Alberta/British Columbia concludes service

Interim Pastoral Leader Nolan Astley.

W I N N I P E G - Rev. Nolan D. Astley, the Interim Pastoral Leader for Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) congregations in Alberta and British Columbia during the past year, will officially conclude his work in this role on September 1, 2016. The Interim Pastoral Leader arrangement was implemented after the 2015 Alberta-British Columbia (ABC) District convention resolved overwhelmingly to request LCC to exercise direct ecclesiastical supervision for an unspecified period. Because of challenges facing the new District President and Board of Directors, as well as the frustrations felt by individual people and congregations, the longtime practice of exercising such supervision through the elected District President was deemed troublesome at that time. Rev. Astley was appointed by action of the LCC Board of Directors after securing congregational approval at Holy Cross Lutheran Church (Kitchener, Ontario) where he has served as senior pastor since 2009. “We have monitored this special arrangement for many months now,” commented LCC President Robert

ABC District President Glenn Schaeffer.

Bugbee. “Some weeks ago, the LCC Board of Directors, considering all the factors involved, concluded that we’re reaching the point where we need to release Pastor Astley back to his congregation full-time. The Synod across Canada owes a huge debt of gratitude to the members of Holy Cross, to Assistant Pastor Roland Syens, and—perhaps most of all—to Mrs. Susan Astley and their family for sharing a gifted pastor, husband and father with us for this demanding assignment. I really don’t have the words to tell Pastor Astley how valuable this help has been.” The transition comes after consultations with the ABC District’s Vice Presidents and Board of Directors. Beginning in early August, ABC District President Glenn E. Schaeffer will begin carrying out the routine demands of an ecclesiastical leader, including assisting calling congregations. Rev. Astley will finish up in several special cases of need as they move toward being resolved. President Schaeffer assumes his place on the LCC Council of Presidents this fall. “ L u t h e ra n C h u rc h - C a n a d a has not involved itself with the

corporate and legal issues of the ABC District, where LCC had no jurisdiction,” President Bugbee observed. “Pastor Astley’s separation from legal and business issues enabled many people to welcome his presence without being distracted by the financial difficulties besetting the District.” President Bugbee went on to note that Rev. Astley “spent rather little time in the District office, feeling compelled to make the most of his trips out west connecting with people in the field.” Rev. Astley divided his time between this work in the west and his Kitchener pastorate since August of last year. President Glenn Schaeffer is well known in the ABC District, having served as a mission executive for many years before his election as President in 2015. Prior to that work, he served congregations in Cobourg and Barrie, Ontario, and completed a doctoral program in missiology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

National News www.canadianlutheran.ca

Anglicans vote to allow same-sex marriage CANADA - The Anglican Church of Canada (ACC) has voted to allow clergy to officiate over same-sex marriages, breaking with the Christian Church’s historic understanding of marriage down through the centuries and exacerbating tensions in a church body long polarized over the issue of human sexuality. The issue was broached during the ACC’s General Synod on July 11, 2016 during which time a resolution to approve same-sex marriage seemed to fail by one vote. Votes by the Order of Bishops and the Order of Laity passed the 2/3 requirement in order to make the change, but the Order of Clergy vote had reportedly fallen short of the 2/3 majority required by one vote. On July 12, however, ACC Archbishop Fred Hiltz announced there had been a voting error and that a 2/3 majority had in fact been reached by the Order of Clergy. The General Secretary’s vote had been incorrectly counted as lay instead of clergy. The change in church teaching must be ratified at the 2019 General Synod, but a number of ACC bishops have indicated they will move to allow same-sex marriage immediately (with many saying so even while the vote was presumed to have failed). In voting to allow same-sex marriage, the ACC follows in the steps of its American sister church, The Episcopal Church (TEC). And just as with the American church’s decision, the ACC’s change in doctrine is likely to further enflame discord in the worldwide Anglican Communion. A recent meeting of Anglican world primates in Canterbury voted to censure TEC for approving same-sex marriage, a move they said represents “a fundamental departure from the faith and teaching held by the majority of our Provinces on the doctrine of marriage.” Consequently the Primates agreed to suspend TEC from full participation in the Anglican Communion for a period of three years, decreeing that they not be allowed to take part in “decision making on any issues pertaining to doctrine or polity.”

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The statement also noted that “possible developments in other Provinces could further exacerbate this situation”—an oblique reference to the Anglican Church of Canada’s thenupcoming vote on same-sex marriage. It is likely that some disaffected Canadian Anglicans will reach out to the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) for support. ACNA was founded in 2009 by disaffected members of the ACC and the TEC who had long been concerned with the increasingly liberal theological positions of their church body on issues like human sexuality and, more broadly, the authority of Scripture. Today ACNA has grown to encompass 112,000 members in nearly 1,000 congregations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A number of Anglican churches worldwide no longer recognize TEC or ACC as their communion partners in North America, opting instead for relations with ACNA solely. Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC), along with its American counterpart The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS), has been a dialogue partner of ACNA for several years, finding initial common ground on issues like marriage. Earlier this year, the churches released a statement reporting wide-ranging agreement on a variety of other doctrines, rejoicing in “the deep common bonds between us in the Body of Christ” and celebrating “the large measure of consensus” identified thus far. Dialogue between the three churches continues.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

NEW video-based study!

A Man Named Martin – Part II “The Moment”

This 3-part video-based Bible study examines the wayward theology, faulty teachings, and widespread doctrinal errors of the late Medieval Church. It was against such Church abuses that Martin Luther and other reformers pushed for a return to Scripture as the only true authority. Ultimately, Luther’s 95 Theses and his hard-fought debates with Catholic Church hierarchy set in motion a theological overhaul of the existing order. This study is a follow-up to Part 1, ‘A Man Named Martin – The Man.’ Both studies are available on-line at www.lhm.org/studies or can be purchased as a DVD and study guide set. Listen to The Lutheran Hour’s messages of hope and inspiration on radio, by app or online at www.lutheranhour.ca Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada 270 Lawrence Ave., Kitchener, ON, N2M 1Y4 www.LLL.ca 1-800-555-6236 or e-mail info@LLL.ca LutheranHourMinistriesCanada

ABC District News Alberta Alberta and and British British Columbia Columbia

Bulletin artwork makes an impact at the local library VERMILLION, Alta. - Rev. Greg Palmer first came up with the idea to do artwork in the bulletin because of one young member of his congregation. R.J. would bring paper and markers to church and draw pictures of what impressed him from the readings or the sermon. Rev. Palmer, having a Bachelor of Fine Arts undergraduate degree and also having a teaching certificate for art, was excited to see these images. He first saw R.J.’s drawings one Sunday after church and decided he wanted to share them with everyone in the congregation. What better way to do that, he wondered, than to insert them into the bulletin? Rev. Palmer later recruited other children and youth in both congregations he serves to participate in this “Bulletin Artwork.” Some of the younger ones enthusiastically drew many images, each of them based on a reading for a particular Sunday. Other confirmation age students submitted items more slowly to the cause. All in all more than twenty pieces were submitted. Sometimes there would be an image only once a month, and other times there would

Bulletin artwork on display at the local library.

be a new one each Sunday. Rev. Palmer then decided to go further with the artwork project by finding a public place where the images could be displayed for the community. He approached the Vermilion Public Library with the idea and they responded enthusiastically. The library even loaned him their picture frames to protect the artwork while it was being displayed at the library.

The artwork was then printed on large 11’ by 17’ hard stock paper, matted, and framed for display. A “Greet the Artist “ night was held for those who participated. The artwork was on display for the month of February with labels by each piece, giving the name of the piece, the artist, a date and the scripture reference for each artwork as well as an ‘Artist Statement’ written by Rev. Palmer.

Drumheller congregant’s community service honoured DRUMHELLER, Alta. - Grace Lutheran Church is proud of all its members, but this year one member has made the news time and again: Lynn Hemming. In 2015, Pat Griffin—also a member of Grace Lutheran—was declared Drumheller’s Citizen of the Year. This year, she passed the torch to Hemming, another member of the congregation, who has been declared Citizen of the Year for 2016. She was presented the award by local MP Kevin Sorensen in a special ceremony. Beside being Citizen of the Year, Hemming was also recognized for her long service to teaching this year, as she chose to retire in 2016. As a teacher, she was well-loved by her students. The

Lynn Hemming is given the Citizen of the Year award from MP Kevin Sorensen.

local newspaper recognized her teaching achievements, writing, “Lynn Hemming has been a teacher that any high school student... would not forget. She has impacted students with more than just teaching the bare minimum. She goes above and beyond by teaching students not only

English, but also about life.” “I think teaching is about two things, building relationships and building a community,” Hemming told the newspaper. “When a classroom has positive relationships between the teachers and kids, it becomes a safe place. It is a good place where a classroom becomes a community of learners and not just individual people. It’s not that we learned anything from snack days, it’s the fun about being excited about it that builds community.” Grace Lutheran is very proud of all of Hemming’s accomplishments and her strong faith in God, which is evident in all she does. Rosalie Nimmo, Administrative Assistant, Grace Lutheran Drumheller

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ABC District News Alberta Alberta and and British British Columbia Columbia

Reflections from the Interim Pastoral Leader The glorious and the not so glorious office

ay back in 1960, Rev. Dr. A. H. Schwermann, then President of Concordia College in Edmonton, wrote a chapter in a book called The Pastor at Work. His focus was on the doctrine of the call, but early in his chapter Schwermann, in reference to the parish pastor says, “all concerned should bear in mind that the office of the ministry is a glorious office.” Over the past year, as I have travelled back and forth between various points in the ABC District and my home in Kitchener, I have reflected on his words many times. And now at the end of my time as Lutheran Church–Canada’s Pastoral Leader for Alberta and British Columbia, I can’t help but agree with our sainted forefather, Dr. Schwermann. C.F.W. Walther in his Theses on the Ministry taught that “the ministry is the highest office in the Church, from which, as its stem, all other offices of the Church issue”—but the most glorious part of that office is the work of the parish pastor! In the parish, God’s Word and the needs of His people come together. In the parish, sinners are forgiven, the Gospel is proclaimed week by week, children are baptised and brought up in the nurture of the Lord, the erring are admonished, the sick and dying are consoled, couples are married, people are educated in God’s word, and on and on the list goes. Over the past year one of the greatest joys has been to come back to the congregation I serve here in Kitchener and engage again with the people through whom God has called me to be a parish pastor. This is where the action is, so to speak: this is the front line of the battle against the evil one and this is where, day by day, you see God’s Holy Spirit at work in the lives of His people. Over the past year I have often reminded people who have been caught up in the crisis surrounding the Church Extension Fund in the ABC District of the importance of remaining involved in their congregations, even if they have been deeply wounded in this whole mess. The real glory of God isn’t found in our humanly devised Synods and Districts and their plans and dreams. The glory of God is more often found in the faithful preaching of the crucified and risen Lord Jesus Christ, which happens week by week in the congregations of our church body. At the Diet of Worms in 1521 Luther said Popes and councils will err and have erred. We might recast that for our day and say synods and districts have erred and will err. However, God’s Word continues to grow in that Divine union of pastor and people which a child can recognize as, “holy believers and ‘the little sheep who hear the voice of their shepherd’” (Smalcald Articles 12).

2 The Canadian Lutheran July/August 2016 20 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

As my time ser ving as an ecclesiastical supervisor comes to its close, I am grateful beyond words to be going back to the parish, back to where Word and Sacrament come to God’s people. But I am also more keenly aware than I ever have been of the burden born by those who have been called out of the parish to serve full-time as our ecclesiastical supervisors: our District and Synodical Presidents, past, present and future. Each of them was or will be called away from the glories of the parish to serve the church at large. Even though they are all still members of congregations, they do not get to see what I see on a day to day basis. Their lives quickly become a litany of meetings, administrative headaches, and problem solving. When I get frustrated as a parish pastor, I can head out and commune some shut-ins and be reassured of God’s work in our lives. By and large, they don’t have that opportunity—at least not first-hand. So as I leave the ecclesiastical supervision behind, I am determined to be more faithful in prayer for the men God has called to supervisory positions in our little Synod. I will try to remember to put the best construction on the things I hear from them, even if I don’t happen to like what they said. And I will redouble my efforts to speak well of them and care for them as best I am able. In the weeks leading up to my graduation from seminary, Dr. Karl Barth (then President of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri) led a seminar for graduates heading out to their first calls. I remember him telling us there would be occasionally huge struggles in the parish and that we would at times be angry and hurt by what our own people do and say about their pastor. But then he told us to pray, to pray particularly for those people, because it’s hard to stay angry with those for whom you pray. In this time where cynicism and anger at leaders in the church is a very real part of our lives, I encourage you to pray again and again for those who serve in supervisory offices. Who knows? You might even find yourself less angry. And don’t forget to pray for your pastor. Even though he has the “glorious” office, he’s apt to forget from time to time! “Remember your leaders, who spoke the Word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:7-8). To God be the Glory! Rev. Nolan Astley, Senior Pastor, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Kitchener, Ont.

ABC District News News ABC District Alberta and and British British Columbia Columbia Alberta

LWMLC district women are sparked by the Word and sent to the world A B B O T S F O R D , B. C . - T h e LWMLC, ABC District 31st. Regular Convention was held July 7-9, 2016 at Columbia Bible College. The theme “Sparked by the Word, Sent to the World” was based on the league’s triennial theme of “Fan into flame the gift of God”—2 Timothy 1:6). Average attendance each day was 159 people, including five women from the Kootenay Zone. Lutheran Church–Canada President Emeritus Ralph Mayan was the preacher for the opening service of Holy Communion. Delegates carried Society banners in the procession. A reception followed the service. LWMLC ABC President Pauline Huth opened the convention. On hand to bring greetings were City of Abbotsford Deputy Mayor Patricia Ross and Marie Chow of the LWML Washington/Alaska District. LWLMC President Iris Barta was mission speaker for the event, giving her report and sharing a presentation on “Refresh, Renew, Rejoice today.” She spoke of mission to Nicaragua, as well as on the new proposed structure of LWML-Canada. During the convention, certificates were presented to society delegates for those seventeen societies who have been active for 25 to 60 years. Several breakout sessions were held during the event, focusing o n “ G o d ’ s s e r v i c e t o re m o t e people” (Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots); “God’s service to people near you” (Wagner Hills Ministries); “Refugee resettlement” (Canadian Lutheran World Relief); “Grief Support and Outreach” (S.E.R.V.E); and “Using God’s Gifts to serve Him” (Grace Fox). Rev. Laverne Hautz and Deanna Hautz led a Bible study entitled” Sparked by the Word and Sent to the World.” Each of the five young women representatives shared what “Sparks their soul on fire!” The mission ingathering was for “Pregnancy Options.” Mission grants for 2016-2019 were adopted

for Children’s Feeding and Education Program in Central America; Trinity’s Little Children Centre (Richmond, B.C.); Stipend Support for Ukraine Lutheran Missionary a n d Fa m i l y ; F u l l Ac c e s s i b l e Communication between Deaf and Hearing (Fraser Valley, B.C.); Basic Food Staples for Ukraine Seminary Student’s Families, and Mercy Care Packages for LCC Central America Missions. Participants had the opportunity to roll bandages, visit the food bank, help with sock ministry, Bible marking ministry, Mite box ministry, and learn about knitted prayer bears and prayer shawl ministry. They also participated in a mission walk, with proceeds going toward tuition assistance at Hope Lutheran Christian School (Port Coquitlam, B.C.), Cloverdale Christian School at Zion Lutheran (Cloverdale, B.C.), Sowing Seeds Preschool at Faith Lutheran (Surrey, B.C.), and Trinity Lutheran’s Lutheran Children Centre (Richmond, B.C.). A banquet, emceed by Linda Rattaler, saw a variety of entertainment, including the skit “In the Garden” (orchestrated by Dawn Loyie), a “Noise Quartet,”

Back: Irene Kaun, Sharon Beloin (both Mt. Zion, Cranbrook members). Front: Christy Morton (Mt. Zion Delegate), Elizabeth Domke (Kootenay Zone president), and Klara Gross (Redeemer, Creston member).

and music from the Tressel Family Gospel Singers plus ONE. Election results: Linda Horton was elected president; Irene Kaun, vice-president Christian growth; Becky Wandio, vice-president communications; Penny Bobier, vice-president member development; Deborah Gruben, vice-president Christian mission; Jamie Fulton, recording secretary; Jeanette Wood, financial secretary; Barbara Lachman, treasurer. The next LWMLC, ABC District convention will be in three years in Calgary, Alberta. with notes by Irene Kaun

Lutheran school among top ranked in area

STONY PLAIN, Alt. – A Frasier Institute report highlights a Lutheran school as among the best in its region. SML Christian Academy has been ranked second overall in the Parkland County area. The school is owned and operated by St. Matthew

Lutheran Church in Stony Plain. “While the ranking is simply based on test scores and Alberta Ed surveys, we are happy to have such a high ranking,” the school noted on its Facebook page. The rankings in the Frasier Institute report are formulated based on seven academic areas in provincewide test results. St. Matthew Lutheran Christian Academy is the oldest school in the Parkland County area, having operated for 110 years.

The July/August2016 201621 3 THE Canadian CANADIAN LLutheran UTHERAN July/August

ABC ABC District News Alberta and and British British Columbia Columbia Alberta

CLWR invites proposals for Fort McMurray projects ALBERTA – In response to the Fort McMurray Wildfire, Canadian Lutheran World Relief (LCC) is inviting Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) groups and congregations in Alberta to apply for funding for projects that will benefit the congregations and people of Fort McMurray. F unds will come from the CLWR Emergency Fund. CLWR and LCC issued a joint appeal for prayers and financial support earlier this year when the Fort McMurray Wildfire first took place. Lutheran Church–Canada congregations in Alberta wishing to submit a proposal are invited to contact the Alberta-British Columbia District at info@lccabc. ca for proposal and reporting forms. P l e a s e n o t e t h e f o l l ow i n g guidelines:

Funding Eligibility: To be eligible for funding, the i m p l e m e n t i n g a g e n cy s h o u l d be a registered Canadian charity and working in the v i c i n i t y o f t h e e m e r g e n c y. Project Proposal: Please ensure that your proposal is submitted using the proposal form and includes the following information: project name; start and end date; project description; project objective and expected results; number of individuals and families that will benefit from the project; impact on the community;

Markerville celebrates 85th anniversary

and how progress/success will be measured. A. Budget: Provide an itemized list of budgeted expenses for the proposed project. Approved funds will be disbursed directly to the implementing Church groups or congregations directly by CLWR. Implementing groups will be responsible for all reporting. B. Reporting: To ensure accountability to donors, CLWR needs to receive reporting on all projects funded. This report must be submitted to CLWR within two months of completing the project. The report, including photos, should be submitted using the report template and include information on the project activities, results achieved and the number of individuals/families benefiting from the project. Financial Reporting: The financial section of the report should list all the actual expenses pertaining to the project. Please submit copies of all receipts. Visit the ABC District website at www.lccabc.ca

MARKERVILLE, Alta. – Christ Lutheran church in Central Alberta celebrated its 85th anniversary on May 1, 2016. Many past members and former pastors attended the event, as did ABC District President Glenn Schaefer. Pastoral guests included (from left to right): Rev. Ken Rodeman (January 1972 to 1978); Rev. Dr. Ed Lehman (January 1958 to January 1965); ABC District President Glenn Schaeffer; Rev. Russell Howard (July 2005 to present); Rev. Bill Kronen (November 1965 to September 1971).

4 The Canadian Lutheran July/August 2016 22 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month. District Editor communications@ lutheranchurch.ca

Next deadline: September 16, 2016

Central District News News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Summer fun at Camp Lutherland PASQUA LAKE, camp has to offer.” Sask. - July was a This year busy month for between the Kids Camp Lutherland. and Youth Camps, The annual Kids Lutherland held its Camp (for campers first Open House. age eight to ten) took On July 16, people place July 10-14, and from around the Youth Camp (for Pasqua Lake, Fort campers age eleven to Qu’Appelle, Lipton, thirteen) took place Regina, and as far as July 17-21. Moose Jaw, came to Campers had enjoy fellowship and the opportunity to take part in facilities grow in the Word of tours, including the the Lord and enjoy new dining hall that God’s great outdoors is currently under Campers from Kids Camp enjoy a troop group craft session. Campers were treated and the beautiful to new crafts each day of camp. construction. There property that Camp was also a hot dog Lutherland offers. and hamburger sale, “ We a r e v e r y with all proceeds blessed to have the going to the new camp located in the dining hall. beautiful Qu’Appelle “We had very Valley and have lake good weather and we point property,” said were pleased with Corynn Hubick, attendance at our C a m p D i r e c t o r. first Open House,” “The campers are said Hubick. “The able to enjoy many Camp would like water and outdoor to thank everyone activities.” Water who came out to our activities at the camp First Annual Open included swimming, House. It was such a the dunk tank, a treat to tour people large homemade around the camp and Youth Camp staff and campers rejoice and sing songs during evening campfire. slip and slide, water to update them on fights, and canoeing. recent changes. We and His Son, Jesus. Campers made Other outdoor activities included look forward to hosting everyone new friends and were exposed to capture the flag, dodge ball, capture again next year!” Christian role models in the youth the objects, beach volleyball, outdoor During the rest of the year, counsellors, pastors, directors, cooks, relay, kick ball, parachute, and many Lutherland offers space for craft leaders, and directors. other camp favourites. confirmation retreats, family Many volunteers work hard During Kids Camp, campers and reunions, and a variety of other to make the camp a success. The staff had the challenge of working Christian fellowship and learning camp primarily draws its volunteers with some rain delays, but everyone opportunities. The Camp is an from Lutheran Church–Canada’s pulled together and made the best of affiliate of LCC and the Camp (LCC) congregations in southern it. There were also a couple of hot Board of Directors is made up of Saskatchewan. “I’ve been involved days during the first week. During volunteers from the area who work with the camp for many years, Youth Camp it was hot and humid, hard throughout the year to provide volunteering in many different so water activities were a great way a Christ-centered experience. roles,” said Hubick. “It was great to to cool off. For more information about take on the role of director this year Daily crafts, devotion lessons, Camp Lutherland please visit www. and see the campers and staff grow campfire, and evening chapel camplutherland.com or follow on in faith and experience all that the centered around the love of God Facebook. The Canadian LutheranJuly/August July/Augut 201623 1 T HE C ANADIAN LUTHERAN 2016

Central District News News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Rev. DJ Kim installed as chaplain for Moose Jaw Police Services MOOSE JAW, Sask. - On Thursday, July 28 Rev. DJ Kim of Regina joined two new recruits as the newest members of the Moose Jaw Police Services. Chaplain Kim will be working part time in Moose Jaw to provide chaplaincy services to the police force. After the judge swore in the new members, Central District President Tom Prachar and local Moose Jaw pastor Rev. John Kreutzwieser installed Rev. Kim into his new office. The Central

District provides financial support for Chaplain Kim to work with the Regina Police Services, Moose Jaw Police Services, and a Street Ministry in Regina.

(l-r) Rev. Tom Prachar, Chaplain DJ Kim, Moose Jaw Police Chief Rick Bourassa

Ponderings from the president

When your time is up here’s an app for that!” With a sigh of relief you can now undertake just about any task you weren’t sure how to handle. Someone else has made it easy for you, outlining what to do step by step. Want to know which star you’re looking at in the night sky? There’s an app for that! Need to get blood stains out of your rug? There’s an app for that! Want to build a boat? There’s probably an app for that, too. Want to know when you’re going to die? I don’t know about an app, but there is a website to inform you of just that: deathclock.com. All you need to do is feed in some information about yourself: date, month and year of birth; sex; mode (do you have a “normal, pessimistic, optimistic, or sadistic” nature?); BMI (body mass index); and whether you are a smoker or non-smoker. After all that, just one click of your trusty mouse and you will be told that the date for your eventual demise will be... April 21, 2034—a Tuesday, no less. (I wonder if anyone has ever completed all the information, and then been told that their death was last week?) Of course none of us really knows the day of our death. Only God knows that information, and He’s not sharing. Sometimes in the Bible, God indicated that a person’s time was up. To Moses God said, “Go up this mountain of the Abarim, Mount Nebo…and die on the mountain which you go up, and be gathered to your people” (Deuteronomy 32:49-50). There is also the interesting account of King Hezekiah, who became sick. He was told by Isaiah the prophet, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die; you shall

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not recover’” (II Kings 20:1). Then, after some fervent praying, Hezekiah was told by God, “I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you… and I will add fifteen years to your life” (II Kings 20:5-6). God has not promised us similar advanced notice of our death. And that’s probably a good thing; otherwise we might lament, “Woe is me!” and become so fixated on our departure that it pushes everything else aside. “Why bother telling others of Jesus, or even being kind to my neighbour, because my time is too short.” Others might see it differently. Now that they know the day of their death, they can press on with renewed vigor to complete their “bucket list” before time runs out. While we do not know the day of our death, we do know the One in whom we believe and put our trust when that time comes. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we now see death not just as the terrible end of a sin-filled life, but as a door that leads to an eternity with our Saviour. We look forward to resurrected bodies that will not die because sin and death have been conquered by Jesus once and for all. As our Lord said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die.” With the apostle Paul and all the saints who have gone before us, we boldly confess: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (I Corinthians 15:54-57). Amen! Rev. Thomas Prachar

Central District District News Central News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Northwestern Ontario hosts district women winners of the plane DRYDEN, Ont. ride draw. Andrew There is certainly a Anstey, LAMP’s lot of rock around aviation director, Dryden, but for and three ladies at the 119 registrants a time soared into of the 2016 the air with LAMP’s Lutheran Women’s Piper Lane airplane. Missionary I n t h e 2 01 3 - 1 6 League–Canada triennium Central (LWMLC) Central District LWMLC District Convention supported two held June 3-5 at grants to LAMP, the Dryden Best one for $12,500 to Western Hotel, the refurbish the Piper firm foundation Lane airplane and was “Christ Alone the other $12,500 to is our Rock.” The support Pastor/Pilot theme was based on The convention banner. Ouelette. Psalm 62:1-2 and President Iris Barta brought the convention logo and banner were g r e e t i n g s f r o m LW M L C a n d designed by Kelly Klages of Morden, presented the LWMLC restructuring Manitoba. proposal, with the group discussing Pastoral counsellors Rev. Robert concerns about the proposed large Grout and Rev. Dr. Richard Beinert zones and how they will impact the each led the group in an excellent fellowship amongst one another. Bible study that set the tone Saturday afternoon featured a for carrying out the convention mission festival at the church where business. On Friday evening, Our attendees could choose three of six Saviour Lutheran Church, Dryden different break-out sessions that served as host congregation for a offered a servant event to assemble traditional meal catered by local hospital emergency toiletry kits from restaurant Kokums, followed by a ingathered items and opportunity to Holy Communion service. hear first-hand accounts from five Saturday morning, Rev. Dennis speakers who had seen the impact of Ouelette shuttled to the Dryden district mission grant dollars in the Regional airport with nine ladies,

The hosts provided three campfires.

past. Soup labels, stamps and tabs were sorted and ready to be taken home for their respective ministries. A convention wouldn’t be complete without a mission walk, and both the long and short route took in the scenic, rolling landscape along the Wabigoon River. The evening walk raised $8,895 which will be divided among La Ronge Lutheran Fellowship Ministry, Thunder Bay Outreach Street Ministry, and Regina Street Ministry. Those not participating in the walk had opportunity to ride out to the airport (courtesy of drivers from Engleheim Charter Inc. of Saskatchewan) to view the LAMP plane grant dollars helped to refurbish. Mission grants totalling $50,000 were approved for Jackfish Lutheran Camp ($15,000), Camp Lutherland ($10,000), purchase of Bibles and Lutheran Hour Ministries children’s books for outreach in Regina ($3,000), Aurora Bible Camp ($10,000), Mission Opportunity Grant ($5,000), feeding children in Nicaragua ($4,724), funding for LCC’s missionary in Ukraine ($2,276). Other offerings collected supported Mites ($2,081), Pastors with Alternate Training ($1,992), and Lutherans for Life ($2,083). The convention ingathering included $1,300 in gift cards and money, plus a variety of food products for the Dryden Food Bank, and more than $785 in gift cards and money for local crisis shelter Hoshizaki House. Saturday evening ended on the church grounds around an oldfashioned campfire, amidst the smell of roasting wieners and s’mores. Following Sunday morning worship, Bible study led by Central District President Rev. Tom Prachar, and a fellowship lunch at the church, it was time to say goodbye and head for home. What had been three years in the planning had seemed to pass by in an instant, but the memories and blessings will remain, solid as a rock. with notes from Verla Schmirler and Arlene Kish

The Canadian LutheranJuly/August July/Augut 201625 3 T HE C ANADIAN LUTHERAN 2016

Central District District News Central News

Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor

Celebrating 30 years of ordained ministry REGINA - A tribute/roast celebrating the 30th anniversary of Rev. Daryl Solie’s ordination took place over the weekend of June 10-12. On Friday evening, Rev. Solie was “roasted” by various friends and family after a delicious roast beef and cabbage roll catered meal by Rybchuk Catering. It was a funfilled fellowship evening with more than 175 guests and several guest pastors including Rev. Thomas Prachar, Central District President, Winnipeg; Rev. Ted Giese, Mount Olive, Regina; Rev. Irwin Pudryki, emeritus; Rev. Darwin Pollard, emeritus; and Rev. Todd Guggenmos, Our Saviour, Fort Qu’appelle . The weekend concluded with a worship service led by Rev. Solie.

Guest preacher Rev. Prachar based his message on the scheduled Old Testament reading from 2 Samuel. The worship service was followed with a cake and coffee fellowship time in the church basement. From September 1983 to August 1984, Rev. Solie served his vicarage in the three-point parish of St. Walburg/ Loon Lake/Mervin, Saskatchewan; and Zion, Flat Valley, Saskatchewan. Following his graduation from Concordia Lutheran Seminary, Edmonton in 1986, he served his first parish of Trinity, Churchbridge for 20 years. In April 2006, he began serving Prince of Peace, Regina where he continues to serve today.

Rev. Daryl Solie

Sandy Timm

Installations in Inglis/Grandview and Saskatoon

(front, l-r) Revs. Arron Gust, Dan Moeller, Barry Wood; (back, l-r) Revs. Jeff Dul, Tom Prachar

(front, l-r) Revs. Roberto Munoz, Gregory Palmer, Tom Prachar; (middle, l-r) Revs. Howard Ulmer, Rod Parker (back, l-r) Revs. Randy Heide, Rudy Pastucha.

INGLIS, Man. - Rev. Dan Moeller was installed as pastor of the dual parish of Holy Trinity, Inglis and Hope, Grandview. Central District President Tom Prachar preached and officiated at the July 3 service.

SASKATOON - Rev. Gregory Palmer was installed as pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in a service on July 31. District President Tom Prachar officiated; Rev. Palmer’s father-in-law, Rev. Robert Munoz, preached the sermon.

Next issue will feature vacation Bible schools throughout the District.

Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month. Elaine Stanfel, district editor, 509 Airport Road, Pembroke, ON K8A6W7 613-687-6620 elaine.stanfel@gmail.com

Please send photos and stories to the editor.

Visit the Central District website at www. lcccentral.ca

4 The 2016 26 THECanadian CANADIAN Lutheran LUTHERAN July/August July/August 2016

Next deadline September 16, 2016

East District News News East District

Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor

Fusion of Taste gathers hundreds together in fellowship ETOBICOKE, Ont. - On July 24, Our Saviour Lutheran Church served as one of the official sponsors of its community’s Fusion of Taste Festival. This meant that the church’s information was included on all the festival posters, radio/internet ads, on the festival website, and so forth. The congregation was also given a 20-foot booth in a prime location at the festival. The congregation made the most of these benefits to raise the community’s awareness of the church’s presence in Etobicoke and to proclaim Jesus Christ and His salvation to hundreds of people at the festival. All involved in this outreach project were easily able to point people to the church as well, since it was only a block away from the festival site and visible from the church’s booth. Under the leadership of Revs. Joseph Singh and Greg Johnson, and Richard Mueller and members of the church council, a highly professional booth presentation was developed. Organizers gathered print materials, developed a congregational brochure in both English and Punjabi, and prepared to give away one hundred Gospel of John DVDs donated by Holy Cross, Kitchener (Dan Marshall) and the Klemke Foundation (Edmonton). The booth was divided into three sections: one for children’s activities, one for the congregation’s presentation, and one for Masih ki Awaz (Voice of Christ), the weekly Urdu-language radio program overseen by Rev. James Luke (GTA missionary-at-large) and Christ Our King, Mississauga. Linda Honke, Hilda Singh, and several other youth and adults had a steady stream of children doing crafts and other activities. While the parents watched they were given children’s gospel tracts and DVDs. Other volunteers—including East District Mission Encourager Ron Mohr, as well as those mentioned above, plus the on-air team of Masih ki Awaz, and several others—handed out tracts, DVDs, and Our Saviour

and Masih brochures to hundreds of festival goers representing many cultures and many different religions. Our Saviour’s Food Bank ministry was also highlighted with boxes where non-perishable food items could be donated. M e l H o n ke, t h e congregation chairman, was one of the most popular guys at the festival David Chant (back) and Joseph Akhter (seated) from as he handed out balloons broadcast ministry Masih ki Awaz (Voice of Christ) handed to the kids passing by. Rev. out hundreds of tracts, DVDs, and brochures during the festival. Singh ran a close second as he offered rides on his tandem also a theme put into practice by bicycle from one end of the venue each of the volunteers as they bore to the other. witness to God’s love for all people “Lifting High the Cross of Christ” in Christ Jesus, our crucified, risen, was a theme presented in several and returning Lord. places around the booth. But it was Rev. Ron Mohr

Pilgrim VBS another success HAMILTON, Ont. - Again this year the people of Pilgrim Lutheran Church came together to diligently do their part for a successful vacation Bible school July 18- 22. In fact, 54 smiling faces prove it. The congregation was grateful for many helpers, including kitchen help and Pilgrim Lutheran Church attracts 54 smiling faces drivers. They also express to another successful VBS. thanks to the many student other roles. The weather was lovely. volunteers and teachers who took on Rev. Peter Gatluak

Logan ladies guild hosts teddy bear picnic Darlene Nater for a Teddy Bear Picnic. The ladies each brought a new teddy bear which was in turn donated to Lutherwood in Kitchener. After a delicious salad lunch, the group enjoyed a teddy bear devotion and teddy bear quiz. The (l-r) Darlene Nater, Carol Siemon, Donna Eisler, Renata Rose, meeting ended with each Norma Rose, Wanda Higenell, Geraldine Siemon, Hanna participant taking home Nater, Hannah Nater-Isoz. a bear’s paw cookie to LOGAN, Ont. - On Thursday, June 9, remind them of the bear hugs we need the First Lutheran Logan Ladies Guild to give to each other. gathered at the home of President Darlene Nater THE CANADIANLutheran LUTHERAN July/August July/August 2016 The Canadian 2016 27 1

East East District News

Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor

South Sudanese outreach ministry gathers in worship KITCHENER, Ontario — On July 10, South Sudanese Christians gathered in worship at Hope Lutheran Church (LCMS English District). “The progress of the mission here in Ontario is God’s growth,” Rev. Peter Gatluak says, “and we give thanks to God for His blessings that He pours out on us.” Rev. Peter Gatluak

From the president Tears in a Bottle You keep track of all my sorrows. Yo u h a v e c o l l e c t e d a l l m y tear s in Your bottle. You have recorded each one in Your book. (Psalm 56:8) Upon attending the visitation at the funeral home for a dear friend and one of my many “fathers” in the faith, my wife and I were greeted in the line of family members by one of the gentleman’s daughters. As we conversed, she shared with me her recollection of the words of Scripture that referred to our tears being put into a bottle by God and how those tears are kept by our Lord and our God. When she questioned me as to where these words were located in Scripture, I had to admit that I did not know, but that I would certainly find out. And, believe it or not, I suggested to her that my answer would appear either in the next Canadian Lutheran or in the next East District Newsletter, the “Eden Report.” Well, here is the answer. The Scripture verse is Psalm 56:8. In this verse David recalled the fact that God was intimately concerned with every aspect of his life. And by these words of David, we, too, are reminded of the fact that God is just as concerned about every aspect of our lives as well. God doesn’t stand apart, judging from a distance whether our sorrows are “valid.” Because of His compassion, He catches every tear that is shed. It doesn’t matter how big or small, trivial or important, the sorrow might be. In this Psalm, David was expressing grief over his situation, which was truly dangerous. Saul wanted his own son to be king of Israel following him and was hunting David, whom God had designated to be the next king, in order to murder him. This forced David to constantly be on the move as he tried to escape. In the process of fleeing for his life from Saul, David was captured by the Philistines in Gath. Now, what was he to do and what was going to happen to him? At this point in time, David was grieved, fearful, and unsure about his future. Apparently tears began to flow as he poured out his feelings to God. It was then that David reached out to God and cried out: “You keep track of all my

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sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book” (Psalm 56:8). David drew comfort knowing that no matter what he was going through, God had great compassion on him and gathered all his precious tears in a bottle. David trusted God with his life and his future. He wasn’t embarrassed about his tears, and we need not be either, even when we wish we could hold them back. Life challenges us. Seasons of change bump into our normal status quo. When this happens, tears often spring up and efforts to contain them fall short. As the years go by, we sometimes find ourselves reminiscing and wondering why things cannot just remain the way they used to be. There also comes the time when God takes our near and dear ones, one by one, to Himself into His heavenly home. It is for this reason that many of the ancient Greeks and Romans were known to put the tears which were shed at the death of people whom they knew in small vials and place them into the tombs of the deceased. In other words, this was a method people used in the past to remember the tears that were shed in grief as a result of their love and care for their loved ones. David’s point in Psalm 56:8 is this: God cares! He knows what is going on and He hasn’t forgotten His children nor has lost track of what has happened to them. “When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained; what is man, that You think of him? What is the Son of Man that You care for Him?” (Psalm 8:4). Our Lord God is present with us and knows every tear that we shed, and we can count on Him to collect them. No matter what sorrows we face, we can be confident that God cares. Thank You, God for the years we have been privileged to live and enjoy. Thank You, too, for the hope that death is not the end of life—that somehow, in a way beyond our comprehension, we will continue to live with You, live on in the memory of our loved ones, and be reunited with those who have already entered eternal life, because of Your suffering and death on the cross to take away all of our sins. Amen. Rev. Paul Zabel

East District News News East District

Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia Ilene Fortin, editor Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia Ilene Fortin, editor

Hearts afire at 10th annual LWMLC Ontario District convention LONDON, Ont. - “Hearts Afire” was the theme for the 10th (32nd) LWMLC Ontario District Convention June 2-4, attended by 171 participants. The theme verse was Luke 24:32 (NIV) – “Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” The opening worship service heard a choir of approximately 30 women join their voices to sing two anthems. Rev. Paul Zabel, LCC East District president, preached the sermon based on the convention theme verse. Using her experiences as a teacher and school principal in Michigan, keynote speaker Elaine Bickel talked about “burned up,” “burned out,” and “on fire” Christians. Her stories were humourous, inspirational, and thought-provoking, bringing both laughter and tears to her listeners. She said, “Jesus, in the middle of His walk toward the cross, takes a towel and washes His disciples’ feet.” At the end of this school year, Elaine will again be doing something she has done for a number of years. She will wash the feet of the students graduating from Grade 8. The “servant towel” she gives them is embroidered with Jesus’ words in John 13:14 (paraphrased), “even as I your Lord and teacher have washed your feet, so wash one another’s feet.” The servant heart is a heart that is on fire for the Lord. LWMLC President Iris Barta brought greetings and gave a presentation on the proposed restructuring from the Refresh, Renew, Rejoice Today committee. T h i s wa s f o l l owe d by m u c h discussion about the restructuring. There were many comments and questions on different aspects of the proposed change. President Barta said, “Organizational structure must not distract from our mission to serve God and to share the gift of everlasting life through Jesus Christ. Mission is what we are and what we do. It is a priority for us.” And later she said, “No matter how this

comes out, we have to work together going forward. We have to step above our own feelings in the end. Express your thoughts now and vote your heart, but we have to support the organization that Approximately 35 women participated in a 1.8 km mission walk to raise $2,895 for LCC Children’s Ministry in Nicaragua, we all love together Costa Rica, and Honduras. Photo: Delores Peters going forward.” Election Results: Paul’s, Kitchener; Atlantic Canada President - Janice Buchner; VP for Circuit Rider ministry; and financial Mission Education and Mission assistance for worker in Essex Inspiration - Eva Becht; VP for County Lutheran Outreach. Mission Service and Mission Grants Three offerings were taken for Barb Jurgens; VP for Communications the following recipients: 1) $1,330.70 - Rachel Whittal; Recording Secretary - Ontario District mite goal; 2) - Diana Grant; Corresponding $1,520.75 - Medical Missions; 3) Secretary - Lois Munz; Financial $1,279.30 - Concordia Lutheran Secretary - Diane Ebert; Treasurer Theological Seminary students food Linda Schappert (appointed). cupboard. The ingathering offering Projects totalling $61,000 will was designated to My Sister’s Place receive mission grants over the next in London, Ontario. Mental health three years: shipping cost for Medical care worker Linda Armstrong, Missions supplies and for medical in accepting the donations, was equipment for Kiroweni Lutheran overwhelmed saying, “I am so Health Clinic, Tanzania; food honoured and impressed with the hampers for Nicaraguan families in beauty and generosity that has been need; transportation costs for VBS shown to My Sister’s Place.” They mission teams in Newfoundland and serve 100 to 150 women a day who Labrador; purchase of construction have trauma, addiction, or mental materials for a school/church in health issues. Licey, Dominican Republic; the from a report by Kathy Birkett Community Cupboard at Historic St.

Vacation Bible School at First Lutheran children entertained and wanting to LOGAN, Ont. - First Lutheran come back each day. Church held its annual Vacation Darlene Nater Bible School, July 4-8. Thirty-one children attended the “Barnyard Ro u n d u p ” e a c h d a y. A s p e c i a l attraction this year was a straw maze which proved to be a big hit with all the children. Singing, crafts, wiener roast, and Bible The 2016 Barnyard Roundup at First, Logan, included a straw bale maze—a huge hit with the children. stories kept all the THE CANADIANLutheran LUTHERAN July/August July/August 2016 The Canadian 2016 29 3

East East District News

Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor

Shepherd retires after 16 years of service in Windsor WINDSOR, Ont. - June 26 marked the last regular Sunday services led by Rev. Gilvan de Azevedo at First Lutheran Church before his retirement from full-time ministry four days later on June 30. Congregation members used the day to celebrate the pastor’s sixteen years of ministry in Windsor. In addition to the regular German and English Sunday morning services, members joined with Rev. Azevedo and family in worshiping at special afternoon Vespers with LCC East District President Rev. Paul Zabel preaching. The day closed with a special dinner with Rev. Azevedo and family as the honoured guests. Born and raised in Brazil, Rev. Azevedo graduated from Seminario Concordia in Porto Alegre in 1972. In addition to his years as a parish pastor and military chaplain in Brazil, he served for two years as a pastor at an Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELK) parish in Lower Saxony, Germany. Rev. Azevedo

was installed at First Lutheran Church in Windsor on January 16, 2000 and retired after faithfully serving the members of First Lutheran Church and First Lutheran Participating pastors at the special vespers service were: (back, Christian Academy for l-r) Revs. Glenn Stresman, Dusan Tillinger, Jonathan Sachs (LCMS), Michael Wagnitz (LCMS), Konnie Hahn; (front) Revs. Paul Zabel, sixteen years. A t t h e i r f i n a l Gilvan de Azevedo, Art Schiemann (LCMS), and Tim Schneider He has taught at the seminary in chapel service of the school year, the Nicaragua, and he accompanied the students of First Lutheran Christian congregation’s youth on a mission Academy sang, “Jesus Loves Me” trip to Nicaragua. He was also the in Portuguese, Rev. Azevedo’s first host pastor for the East District language, as a token of appreciation Convention held in Windsor in 2009. for his service to them. The members, students, and In addition to his pastorate friends of First Lutheran Church and at First Lutheran Church, Rev. First Lutheran Christian Academy Azevedo continues to serve as circuit thank God for Rev. Azevedo’s many counsellor for the Windsor Circuit years of faithful Word and Sacrament for the term ending in 2018. He ministry and pray that the Lord will was also a member on a number provide both he and Marli continued of district and synodical boards good health for a long and fruitful and committees, including the East retirement. District Department for Outreach and Rev. Glenn Stresman Concordia Lutheran Mission Society.

New Hamburg church building decommissioned NEW HAMBURG, Ont. - On June 26, St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church was decommissioned and closed as a place of Lutheran worship. The decommissioning ended 105 years of Lutheran worship at the church—the building was originally dedicated as a place of worship on March 19, 1911. The service was a celebration of God’s grace and blessing through Word and Sacrament at St. Peter’s for more than a century. Rev. James Keller, vacancy pastor at St. Peter’s, conducted the final service at the church. Rev. Richard Orlowski, Kitchener circuit counsellor, officially decommissioned the church building and oversaw the removal of furnishings and sacramental vessels. About 100 people attended the final service including former pastors and members, as well as Kitchener Circuit and East District pastors and lay people.

While St. Peter’s church has been decommissioned, the congregation has not disbanded and continues to worship in New Hamburg at another site. The building of St. Peter’s, too, will continue as a place of worship. It was sold to the Society of Saint

Pius X, a traditional Catholic church body. The members of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran are pleased to see that the Catholic congregation is retaining the name, dedicating their church as St. Peter’s Catholic Church. Tom Schaeffer

Visit the East District website at www.lcceastdistrict.ca Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month. Ilene Fortin, district editor East District Office 275 Lawrence Avenue, Kitchener, Ontario N2M 1Y3 E-mail: ilene@lcceast.ca Fax: 519-578-3369 (l-r) Rev. Dr. James Keller and Rev. Richard Orlowski

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Next deadline: September 16, 2016

Mission Update LCC holds fifth Intercultural Church Workers Conference ETOBICOKE, Ontario - Nearly 50 church workers came together for Lutheran Church–Canada’s fifth Intercultural Church Workers Conference, held at Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Etobicoke. Participants came from all three LCC districts, as well as from the English District of The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod, under the theme “Opening Our Doors to the World at Our Doorstep.” One objective of the conference was to begin work on a unified, synodwide strategy for outreach to the large and increasingly diverse immigrant population in Canada. To that end, three sessions were presented. First, Rev. Esko Murto, visiting professor at Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, gave an insightful talk based on Matthew 28:19-20, discussing objectives, methods, and obstacles involved in intercultural outreach. Second, Rev. Roland Syens, assistant pastor at Holy Cross, Kitchener, led a discussion of Revelation 7:910, investigating ways to become a church that reflects in this world that “multitude which no one could number” gathered in worship around Christ’s throne in Heaven. Finally, Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel brought these thoughts together as he led the group in a discussion of ten points which could form the outline of LCC’s Intercultural Outreach Strategy: 1. Study of God’s Word and the Lutheran doctrine (Lutheran Confessions); 2. Lutheran liturgical life; 3. Catechesis or Christian education of the children and youth; 4. Outreach to refugees and immigrants in our area; 5. Structuring and establishing new congregations in Word and Sacraments; 6. Formation of congregational local leadership; 7. Stewardship and support for local mission and LCC’s District missions; 8. Association/Incorporation with LCC;

A few of the nearly fifty participants at the conference.

9. Nurture loving, caring peace making congregations; 10. Nurture fellowship amongst ethnic and Caucasian congregations. The three LCC District Presidents led Bible studies based on Jesus’ letters to the seven churches of Asia Minor recorded in Revelation 2-3. The discussion centred around the images Jesus uses to describe Himself to each church, what each church was commended for and called to repent of, and what promises were given by Christ to each church. The group was then encouraged to see how these letters convict, comfort, encourage, and empower us today for missional living in our 21st century setting. A highlight of the conference was worship. At the opening service, Dr. Neitzel delivered a powerful sermon based on Revelation 7:9-10, encouraging Christians to engage in Christ’s mission, drawing people from every nation, tribe, people, and language to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. While most of the service was in English, some of the lessons were read in Urdu and Punjabi and a choir from Our Saviour, Etobicoke and Christ Our King, Mississauga sang psalms in Urdu. At the Friday evening celebration of Prayer and Praise, several participants led the group in prayer and in songs in their heart languages. In addition, the group sang many favourite hymns and prayed for personal concerns, individual ministries, and for the church at large. Three times were also set aside for devotions which were

led by Pastor DJ Kim (Regina), Pastor Peter Gatluak (Hamilton), and Pastor Wayne Zhang (Richmond/Surrey). One of the most important outcomes of these intercultural conferences is getting to know one another better. To that end, each participant was encouraged to prepare a presentation about the ministry they are engaged in. “What a joy it was to hear what our Lord Jesus is doing through and among His people as He opens doors through which His servants can enter into the lives of the people in our communities with His life-giving Word of forgiveness, life, and salvation,” said Rev. Ron Mohr, Mission Encourager for the East District. “What a joy it was to strengthen friendships among our brothers and sisters in Christ. What a joy it was to celebrate the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace that we have through faith in Christ Jesus. As relationships of trust are established and strengthened through these intercultural conferences we can give thanks to God all the more for one another, our places of service in His kingdom, and our walking together in this body of Christ.” Conference participants thank the pastors and congregation members of Our Saviour, Etobicoke for their generous hospitality. The conference also give thanks for the generous financial support of LWMLC, Jeffrey Kriwetz (Garfinkle Biderman), Don Kurt (D.A. Kurt Insurance), and Jeff Scott (Nuernberger & Scott Insurance).

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Mission Update Rapid growth for Mozambique’s Lutherans MOZAMBIQUE - Missions in Mozambique continue to bear fruit as the Lutheran Church of Concord in Mozambique (Igreja Luterana da Concórdia em Moçambique – ILCM) shares the good news of Jesus Christ. In August 2015, the ILCM celebrated the ordination of its first graduating class of pastors—eight pastors to serve the young church body’s then ten churches. The celebration saw approximately 1,000 members converge on Villa de Sena, an event which drew considerable local and even national attention. Among those discussing the event were Christians in Amambo, who heard the story from a local woman, who herself heard it from a truck driver. The Christian community in Amambo had been left on their own five years earlier, when the priest serving them left the village. Without p a s t o ra l c a re, the congregation remained isolated and alone, slowly dwindling as members fell away. The news of the ILCM ordination celebration encouraged the remaining congregation members to try to make contact with the Lutherans they had just learned of. Two members travelled twenty kilometers by bike to a nearby town, where they found transportation by truck to Villa de Sena. In total, their trip took two days along rough roads in territory known to be frequented by lions. When they finally arrive in Villa de Sena, they were directed to Rev. Manuel Jambo, President of the ILCM, who welcomed them into his home. After a night of conversation they joined President Jambo and Rev. Mateus Sifa at the local church for worship. They returned to Amambo

with the good news that the Lutherans had agreed to visit them to begin a course of instruction. Within a few weeks, the newly ordained pastors from the ILCM did indeed visit. And on September 6, 2015, members, pastors, and visitors dedicated the Lutheran Church of Amambo. Just three weeks later, they dedicated another congregation fifty kilometers away in Maviga, as the members of Amambo shared the clear Gospel message they were now receiving. Nine months later, international partners had the opportunity to visit

the Amambo congregation. Rev. Carlos Winterle, a Brazilian pastor serving the Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa (FELSISA) with long-time involvement in the mission in Mozambique, and Rev. Shauen Trump, Area Director for Eastern and Southern Africa for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), joined eight local pastors in visiting the community. 110 members were on hand to welcome them. Knowing that the guests would be unable to visit Maviga on the same trip, the congregation there also sent a delegation to welcome them as well—twenty-one representatives who

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

travelled the fourteen-hour journey by foot. The village of Cado similarly found themselves interested in learning more about Lutherans—though their reasons for doing so are somewhat different. The Christians of Cado paid dearly for pastoral services, struggling under the tyranny of a pastor who mandated a substantial cash payment for each visit. It was not until villagers started going to town, some forty-five kilometers away, to find a market for their goods that they realized not all churches operate in the same way. When the possibility of life together under a different model came to light, the congregation took action to learn more. They sent out two youth by bicycle to Villa de Sena to make inquiries of the churches there—and once they arrived they met President Jambo and Rev. Sifa. President Jambo hosted the two Cado villagers in his home, where they discussed the theology of stewardship, offerings, and matters of financial administration in the church. Through these discussions, President Jambo was able to clearly share the Gospel, and explain the church’s focus on Word and Sacraments. That Sunday, the two villagers attended São Paulo Lutheran Church in Villa de Sena, and got to see these focuses in practice. By the end of the service, their path was clear. They explained to the church members in Villa de Sena that they were sent out to find a parent church body for their congregation, and that they had been convicted that the Lutheran church was the one they had come to find. The Cado villagers requested the blessing of the São Paulo congregation to send

Mission Update

a pastor to support a Lutheran church in Cado. A few weeks later, three Lutheran pastors traveled to visit the people of Cado. The first Lutheran service was attended by fifty villagers meeting under a tree. Within a year, the congregation had grown to eighty. It was in ministering to the community of Cado that another mission opportunity presented itself. Rev. Sifa was traveling the forty-five kilometer trip home from Cado—a trip that would be taxing in the best of circumstances, and even more so on one of Africa’s typical heavy one-speed bicycles on rough dirt roads. About ten kilometers into the trip, Rev. Sifa stopped at a trading centre for rest and a refreshment. While there, a teacher noted his clerical collar and asked if he were a priest. Rev. Sifa explained he was a pastor of the Lutheran Church, and they began to discuss the history and doctrine of Lutheranism. Interested in what the pastor had to say, the teacher asked him to consider starting a church in his village of CadoNhachiva. Several weeks later, Rev. Sifa was on his way to Cado again. On the way he found the teacher and several other villagers waiting for him in Cado-Nhachiva. Rev. Sifa spoke with them and invited them to travel with him to the church in Cado. They went. Not much later, Cado-Nhachiva held its first worship service, with 80 people attending. Today 150 members regularly attend services where the Gospel is clearly proclaimed.

The clarity of the Gospel preaching done by Lutherans is making an impact elsewhere in Mozambique too. In Chemba, a local community radio station host learned that firsthand. In Chemba, as in communities across Mozambique, the radio station gives regular airtime to local pastors. But when Lutheran pastor Rev. Julio Castomo had his first moment on air, the host was taken aback by his message. It was so different from the other preachers who came for their five-minute radio time. After the broadcast, the host spoke extensively with Rev. Castomo about his message and about the church. The next day, he came to visit the pastor in his home. And that Sunday, he came to church to learn more. Immediately afterwards, he travelled to his home village of Suero to tell his extended family about the love of Christ. They asked him to go back to Chemba, collect Rev. Castomo, and bring him to tell them himself. After a few evangelistic visits, the people of Suero organized a church and invited Rev. Castomo to come. The first week 60 people attended. The next week there were 80. The ILCM has welcomed other churches too. Rev. Rui Jalene Souza of Kapasseni has seen his evangelistic visits to nearby villages bear fruit, with four new congregations planted in the area. And an independent congregation in Mutarara, hearing of the ILCM’s work, recently sent two representatives forty kilometers to Villa de Sena looking for a church

body with substance. The dedication of a Lutheran congregation in Mutarara is expected in the near future. Work continues in other areas as well. There is a burning desire in Mozambique for clear Gospel preaching, both among the unchurched and those lacking pastoral care. The Lutheran Church of Concord in Mozambique is meeting that need, and they are supported in that work by faithful international partners. The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil; the Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa; The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod; The Mission of the Lutheran Churches (Bleckmarer Mission) of the Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church of Germany; and Redeemer Lutheran Church (Victoria, B.C., Canada) have all signed a memorandum of understanding with the pastors of the Lutheran Church of Concord in Mozambique to provide guidance to ongoing mission work in the country. Lutheran missions in Mozambique grew out of the work of now retired Lutheran Church–Canada pastor Rev. Joseph Alfazema and his wife Perpetua. Their work resulted in the creation of the Kapasseni Project, a Canadian organization that helped lead to the creation of a Mozambican Lutheran church body. This article incorporates reporting by Rev. Shauen Trump based on translation by Rev. Winterle. Photos here and online are by them, Carlotta C. Thies, Rony Marquardt, and Mateus Sifa.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Education Report Concordia Lutheran Seminary hosts weekend retreat EDMONTON - From May 13-15, Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS – Edmonton) held a weekend retreat for young men interested in exploring the pastoral ministry. Six young men, mostly high school students, joined seminarians and faculty in sample classes in exegetical, systematic, historical, and practical theology. They worshipped with the seminary community in chapel and with the local congregation at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Along the way, they also played games and ate some great food. “The seminary was blessed to have these young men as our guest,” a CLS release notes, “and we hope we were a blessing to them as they grow and contemplate their own future.” “It takes the whole church to raise up and form a young man to the point where he is ready to be called to serve a congregation,” the release continues. “The seminary is the place where much of that

Playing a little foosball during the weekend retreat.

formation takes place, but it is only one chapter in a lifetime of formation that begins first in a family and a congregation.” If you or someone you know is interested in exploring whether the pastoral ministry is right for you, visit www.isgodcallingme.ca.

2016 final year for Pastor’s Desk Diary CANADA - Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) in St. Catharines, Ontario has announced that 2016 will be the final year for the publication of the Pastor’s Desk Diary. “We are sorry to announce that 2016 was the last year of publication for the Pastor’s Desk Diary,” the seminary writes in an announcement. “Thrivent Financial in the US have provided us with files to edit for the Canadian context over the past decade or so. But recently they announced to us that they are discontinuing the diary. We do not have the resources to produce it on our own.” While the seminary will no longer produce the Pastor’s Desk

Diary, it will however continue to provide a poster-sized liturgical calendar to Lutheran Church– Canada congregations. The calendar is valued by pastors, altar guilds, and musicians as a handy way to plan out the seasons. Those looking for a replacement for the desk diary that covers the LSB lectionary may wish to consider an electronic alternative. C o n c o rd i a P u b l i s h i n g H o u s e produces iCal, a service provided for free which can be viewed online as well as be subscribed to via a calendar program or app on a smartphone: www.cph.org/tresources-diary.aspx.

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The website includes testimonials, resources, and contact information for Lutheran Church–Canada’s two seminaries.

Education Report Robert Kolb keynote speaker at “500 Years of Reformation” conference EDMONTON - The Canadian Centre for Scholarship and the Christian Faith (CCSCF) is preparing for its 2017 conference, focusing on the theme “500 Years of Reformation.” The event will take place March 24-25 at Concordia University of Edmonton. The convention will feature Rev. Dr. Robert Kolb as keynote speaker, addressing the question of “How Luther’s Reformation Literally Changed the World.” He will also present a plenary lecture on “Luther’s Impact on University Education and Christian Liberal Arts.” Dr. Kolb is one of the world’s foremost Luther scholars. He is professor emeritus of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary (St. Louis, Missouri). His major contributions include an edition of the Book of Concord as well as The Christian Faith: A Lutheran Exposition. The conference invites papers and presentations on the theme “500 Years of Reformation.” While not an exhaustive or restrictive list, possible topics could include: Reformation and Biblical Studies, Reformation and Theology, Reformation and Education, Reformation Economics, Reformation and Politics, Reformation and Ethics, Reformation and the Arts, Reformation and Law, Reformation and Literature, Reformation and the Sciences, Reformation and Modernism, Reformation and Authority, and Reformation and Philosophy. Further details on possible grants, registration information, and how to submit a paper proposal are available from the CCSCF’s website at www. ccscf.org.

CLTS grad receives placement ST. CATHARINES, Ontario Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary has announced that s t u d e n t Ku r t S c h u l t z h a s received his first placement. Kurt Schultz was certified for the holy ministry at the seminary’s Call Service on May 28, 2016. At the time, his

placement was pending. “We are pleased, by the grace of God, to announce that Kurt has been commended to the Lutheran Church– Missouri Synod,” the seminary announced in a recent release. “He has been placed to First Evangelical Lutheran Church

( We l l s v i l l e , N ew Yo r k ) . ” He will be ordained on September 10, 2016.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

In Review

by Ted Giese

uring the end credits of X-Men: Days of Future Past, Bryan Singer set the stage for X-Men: Apocalypse. Filmgoers who sat through the last frames of the film were introduced to the character of Apocalypse—a mutant standing on a sand dune in ancient Egypt telekinetically constructing a massive pyramid with a crowd of worshipers at his feet and his four horsemen watching at a distance. In the opening scenes of X-Men: Apocalypse this now aged mutant is shown transferring his accumulated k n ow l e d g e, abilities, and soul into a younger body. This all takes place around 5,500 years ago in Egypt, where En Sabah Nur (later to be known as “Apocalypse”) is worshipped as a god. But not all the Egyptians revere him; a small group of soldiers are seeking to kill Apocalypse and destroy the pyramid in which he is undergoing his body transference. While they succeed in destroying the pyramid, they fail to prevent the transferance. Apocalypse is left trapped under the rubble until the early 1980s.

This prologue feels and looks a lot like the film Stargate, which spawned the television shows Stargate SG-1. It also sounds vaguely like the History Channel’s Ancient Aliens, which presents for modern viewers the ideas found in Erich von Däniken’s book

Chariots of the Gods. von Däniken’s book suggests that the gods of humanities past were actually aliens misidentified as gods by primitive minds too dense to understand the truth of what they were seeing.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Although powerful, Apocalypse isn’t a von Däniken style alien; instead he’s described as “the first one”—the first human to carry the mutant x-gene, and thus, in a way, a sort of father to the future generations of mutants— including the heroes of the film who fight to stop his plans to destroy and recreate the earth. The central theme of X-Men: Apocalypse is fatherhood—a theme at the heart of the story’s three t h r e a d s . A p o c a l y p s e, who is referred to in the film as a false god, claims the place of father over the mutants and a god to the rest of mankind. Professor Charles Xavier and his School for Gifted Yo u n g s t e r s serve as an institutional f o r m o f fatherhood where people like Scott Summers/ Cyclops and Jean Grey, along with other young mutants, can find shelter and adoption into a family of like individuals. F i n a l l y, the emotional centre of the film is the story of Erik Lehnsherr/ Magneto who, following the events of X-Men: First Class, had attempted to live a simple life setting aside his powers of magnetism. Lehnsherr worked in a Polish refinery and shared

a happy life with his wife Magda and young daughter Nina. This happy life however was doomed to fail. Following the tragic loss of his new family Apocalypse exploits Magneto’s grief to make him one of his four horsemen (along with Storm, Angel, and Psylocke). Weaved through the movie is a glimmer of hope: Magneto’s secret son, the scenestealing Quicksilver, who wants to introduce himself to his father. Quicksilver represents the promise of restored fatherhood and a possible redemption for the conflicted Magneto who believes fatherhood has been taken from him.

The God of Scripture

Does the God of Scripture factor into X-Men: Apocalypse? Following the film’s prologue, a visual sequence shows the progress of time running f ro m a n c i e n t E g y p t t o 1 9 8 3 America—including an image of Jesus carrying His cross to Golgotha and His crucifixion. From time to time throughout the film the demonic looking Roman Catholic mutant Nightcrawler is shown praying to God and making religious exclamations. Professor Charles Xavier likewise makes references to God, though in a more agnostic way. And in the wake of the death of his new family, Magneto, whose childhood family were Jewish victims of the WWII Holocaust under the Nazis, lashes out with his mutant powers and looks up into the heavens and calls out to God, “Is this what you want from me?” Like Job from the Bible, Magneto questions his tragic circumstances, pleading directly to God. What about the character of Apocalypse? What is his take on God? Apocalypse is not a believer in the God of Holy Scripture. In fact, he believes he is the source of the faith others confess saying of himself, “I’ve been called many things over many lifetimes: Ra, Krishna, Yahweh. I was there to spark and fan the flame of man’s awakening, to spin the wheel of civilization.”

Apocalypse isn’t the only character dismissive of God as confessed by Christians. CIA agent Moira Mactaggert provides her take on Apocalypse, explaining to the X-Men how, “ever since the world found out about mutants there have been secret societies, who see them as some kind of second coming or sign of God. They believe that tens of thousands of years ago an ancient being was born, the world’s first [mutant].” She further suggests that the Bible’s idea of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse (Revelation 6:1-4) came from this ancient villain and not from God. Mactaggert represents a more atheistic view of the situation. Compared to classic Western J u d e o - C h r i s t i a n i t y, X - M e n : Apocalypse is a messy spiritual tangle, a reflection of our times. For some characters, the God confessed by Christians is the God they confess. For others, God is part of that Judeo-Christian capital imprinted on history. Still others see God as some distant concept. For Apocalypse, God is insignificant because Apocalypse himself is God—or at least serves in an utilitarian function as the god of this world. As measured by the Ten Commandments, Apocalypse is the paramount breaker of the First Commandment, “You shall have no other gods,” as he does not fear, trust and love the One True God above all things. The question lurking at the fringes of the film is one of trust. Where and in whom do the mutants put their trust in the face of apocalyptic disaster and/or personal tragedy? Do they put it in God the Father, in the false god Apocalypse who calls them his children, do they put it in Xavier and their adoptive X-Men family, or do they trust only in themselves as Magneto is tempted to do? As might be expected, Apocalypse and his apocalyptic schemes are thwarted and the world is left seemingly unaware as to its saviors. Following the film’s final conflict, we hear a newscaster’s colour commentary exclaiming that the world was saved, “By the grace of God,” and

then another newscaster responds, “I think our prayers were answered.” Are these comments intended to be read as cynical irony or as genuine truth? Are the X-men intended to be seen as men and women acting as the avenging hand of God against a First-Commandment-breaking creature who has overstepped his predetermined limits? Have they been the “hook in Leviathans nose” (Job 41:1-2)? What, if anything, does the director Bryan Singer want people to leave the theatre thinking? This is a worthwhile question for viewers to contemplate. If watching the world on the brink of total destruction over and over again has become tedious and exhausting to you, or if super hero movies are beginning to wear a bit thin, then it may be best to steer clear of this film. If you enjoy the X-Men franchise, however, be sure to check it out: for long time fans it will be very engrossing. The film comes off as uneven in patches and tends to favour action and special effects over narrative. Consequently, it may take some effort for audiences to peel away all the explosions to find the film’s central story: fatherhood and the importance of who that father is. While the film definitively rules out the possibility of the false god Apocalypse making a good father, the film is silent when it comes to the Fatherhood of God as found in the Bible. Unlike other X-Men films, which preferred the idea that family is what you make of it, in X-Men:Apocalypse the nuclear family is portrayed positively, as is the desire to have a real relationship between a father and his natural children. Perhaps the most compelling key to unlocking this aspect of the film is found in the character of Magneto and his son Quicksilver—a relationship that could whet the appetite of audiences toward more X-Men films. Rev. Ted Giese is associate pastor of Mount Olive Lutheran Church (Regina, Saskatchewan). He is a contributor to Reformation Rush Hour on KFUO AM Radio, The Canadian Lutheran, and the LCMS Reporter, as well as movie reviewer for the “Issues, Etc.” radio program.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

2017 Travel Highlights in LutherCountry, Germany

In the footsteps of Martin Luther and the Reformation

utherCountry is the region in the heart of Germany where Martin Luther spent most of his life and where his presence is still tangible today. Step inside the room in which Luther translated the New Testament into German.Admire the pulpits from which he preached and where pastors still preach today. LutherCountry has much to offer, from fascinating churches and museums to beautiful landscapes. You will find living history inside the walls of the region’s castles and discover medieval cities. All these charming places have one connection: They were the home of Martin Luther and played an important role in the Reformation. Groups travelling in the footsteps of Martin Luther and the Reformation should see cities like Lutherstadt Wittenberg and Lutherstadt Eisleben in Northern Luther Country. But there is more to discover in Southern Luther Country! Just an hour south you will find the protected medieval city center in Erfurt, with the famous Augustinian monastery where Luther lived as a monk, the Cathedral St. Mary where he was ordained a priest, and the university where Luther studied law. Another must-see LutherCity is Eisenach. Here, the Luther House Museum re-opened in 2015 with a brand new, self-guiding multi-media exhibition “Luther and the Bible.” It’s one of the oldest and most beautiful half-timbered houses in town and the place where Luther stayed with the Cotta Family as a boy. Wartburg Castle, today a UNESCO World Heritage site, overlooks the town. Here you will find the room where Luther translated the New Testament into German. With more than 350,000 visitors annually, Wartburg Castle is by far the most-visited Luther site in the world.

2017 is a special year for LutherCountry, as it marks the 500th anniversary of the year Martin Luther made his 95 Theses known to the world, changing the history of the church, country, and world forever. In honor of this occasion, a National Special Exhibition at Wartburg Castle (May 4-November 5, 2017), connected with exhibitions in Berlin and Lutherstadt Wittenberg, will provide fascinating insights into the life and legacy of Luther. Topics include freedom and obedience, Bible translation and the German language, marriage and family, faith and fortitude, enemies, and Empire and nations. Luther’s living quarters, associated with the Bible translation and the hurling of the ink pot, await the visitor at the end of the tour. And a valuable collection of pamphlets and Bibles will be presented in a new display room for the first time. The 2017 anniversary celebrations in LutherCountry are just the beginning. Other cities with Luther connections in Southern Luther Country can be reached within an hour. Further LutherCities include Weimar, Gotha, Schmalkalden, Mühlhausen, Möhra or Altenburg. And for all travelers that want to combine a love of nature with a passion for Reformation history, the Luther Trail (“Lutherweg”) is one of the most fabulous scenic hiking routes in Germany, connecting it all. For further information on travel to LutherCountry, feel free to visit our website www.visit-luther.com or contact: Tourist Information Thuringia Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 99084 Erfurt, Germany service@thueringen-tourismus.de www.visit-thuringia.com

Saints of the Reformation

Frederick the Wise by Mathew Block

orn January 17, 1463, Frederick III would reign as Elector of Saxony from 1486 until his death on May 5, 1525. His importance to the Reformation is so instrumental that it can scarcely have taken place without him—and yet the motivations behind his actions are not always immediately clear. Frederick the Wise, as he is often called, grew up a friend of Johann von Staupitz, who would later become an important Augustinian theologian. When he founded the University of Wittenberg in 1502, Frederick would invite Staupitz to become professor of Scripture and theology. Following Staupitz’ resignation to become Vicar-General of the Augustinian Order’s reformed branch, however, F re d e r i c k wo u l d a p p o i n t — a t Staupitz’ suggestion—a young Martin Luther to take his place. It was in this context that Luther began to study and understand Scripture more clearly. As he did so, he became increasingly concerned with the church’s teaching on indulgences. He eventually published these concerns in 1517 in the 95 Theses. The theses certainly caught the attention of Frederick III, just as they did the rest of Europe. A pious Christian, Frederick had spent years accumulating a vast collection of relics for the Castle Church in Wittenberg. An inventory from 1518 lists an astounding 17,443 items in the collection, making it among the largest in all Europe. Every year on All Saints Day (November 1), the relics would be displayed for the benefit of the faithful. By venerating each of these relics, the church taught that a Christian could gain indulgences reducing his or her stay in purgatory by a full 1,902,202 years.

The relics and their indulgences were a significant source of income for the elector’s university. In fact, indulgences had funded the initial building of the university. Luther’s theses against indulgences therefore had the potential to reduce the Elector’s bottom line. But as the teachings of the Reformation began to grow and spread in the ensuing years, Frederick the Wise nevertheless took constant steps to protect Luther. Following Luther’s excommunication in 1520, Frederick convinced Emperor Charles V to give him a hearing in Worms. And after Luther’s departure from the city, Frederick arranged to have him kidnapped for his own safety. The soon to be published Edict of Worms called for Luther’s arrest as a heretic. But Frederick had already had him hidden away in Wartburg Castle near Eisenach. There Luther would pursue the translation of Scripture into the common German language, as well as other theological writings. Throughout all these events, Frederick demurred that he, as a layperson, was not qualified to make judgments on the theological topics under debate. He never openly declared allegiance to Reformation theology. By contrast, he kept his great collection of relics, though he stopped displaying them publicly in 1523. But he was clear that wanted to see justice done for Luther—and that meant a fair trial, not a show court with a predetermined verdict. Were Frederick III’s motivations totally pure in his defense of Luther? Or might he also have been concerned that the fate of his university was inextricably entwined with the fate of its star professor? Perhaps a defense of Saxony’s autonomy was also at issue? Or was it in fact that

Frederick the Wise (c. 1540). Painted by the school of Lucas Cranach the Elder.

Frederick III personally sympathized with the teachings of Luther and the Reformation? Or perhaps it was some combination of all of the above? We cannot know for sure. What we do know is this: right before his death, Frederick the Wise communed for the first time according to the practice of the reformers (taking both bread and wine as opposed to just bread, as was the Roman approach). It was, perhaps, his clearest confession of faith. Without Frederick III’s defense of Luther, the early beginnings of the Reformation seemed doomed to failure. “Such a prince is a blessing from God,” Luther wrote after his death. God give us all such good rulers.

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Announcements

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Rev. George Betsos of Toronto, Ontario has submitted an application to the Pastoral Colloquy Program of Lutheran Church–Canada. Communications regarding this application should be submitted in writing within four weeks to Rev. Tom Kruesel, Chairman, LCC Colloquy Committee, c/o 201 Birch St., Campbell River, BC, V9W 2S6 or lcc_colloquy@gmail.com.

Camp Koinonia on Lake Isle in central Alberta may just be the perfect location for your family reunion, wedding, retreat or VBS! Our heated Pavilion is available throughout the year for use by the week, the weekend, or the day. Campsites adjacent to the Pavilion and closer to the lake may be rented as well. Members of a Lutheran church are invited to consider joining our unique lake community by taking out a renewable license to use one of our lake lots. An affordable and family-oriented Christian camp that features playgrounds, a sports court, and outdoor chapel, and Sunday worship throughout the camp season, we may be just what you’ve been looking for. For more information, please visit www.lakeislelutherancamp. com or contact us today at 780-7272477 or LCA.Camp@outlook.com.

Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church of Spruce Grove, Alberta invites you to rejoice with us as we celebrate our 100th Anniversary on October 2, 2016. Celebration Worship Service at 2:30 p.m. Dinner and Program at 6:00 p.m. If you wish to join us please contact Kaeli at 780-960-8312 or Joy at 780-963-5084.

Rev. Charles Okongo of Etobicoke, Ontario has submitted an application to the Pastoral Colloquy Program of Lutheran Church–Canada. Communications regarding this application should be submitted in writing within four weeks to Rev. Tom Kruesel, Chairman, LCC Colloquy Committee, c/o 201 Birch St., Campbell River, BC, V9W 2S6 or lcc_colloquy@gmail.com.

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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Daily Bible Reading

“Be doers of the Word...”

ith this issue, we print the final readings of the two-year Bible reading plan we have been printing each issue since 2015. When you come to the end of these, don’t quit! The Holy Spirit works through the Word to strengthen you in the faith. Do as St. James encourages in this issue’s readings: eschew sin “and receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save your souls” (James 1:21). Find earlier readings in previous issues of The Canadian Lutheran, or download them all at www. canadianlutheran.ca/biblereading/.

“You must always have God’s Word in your heart, upon your lips, and in your ears.... Whenever it is seriously contemplated, heard, and used, it is bound never to be without fruit.” - Martin Luther

WEEK 98  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Heb 8:1–13 Heb 9:1–28 Heb 10:1–18 Heb 10:19–39 Heb 11:1–40 Heb 12:1–29

WEEK 102  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

3Jn 1–15 Jude 1–25 Rv 1:1–20 Rv 2:1–29 Rv 3:1–22 Rv 4:1–5:14

WEEK 99  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Heb 13:1–25 Jas 1:1–27 Jas 2:1–26 Jas 3:1–18 Jas 4:1–17 Jas 5:1–20

WEEK 103  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Rv 6:1–8:5 Rv 8:6–9:21 Rv 10:1–11 Rv 11:1–19 Rv 12:1–17 Rv 13:1–18

WEEK 100  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

1Pt 1:1–25 1Pt 2:1–25 1Pt 3:1–4:19 1Pt 5:1–14 2Pt 1:1–2:22 2Pt 3:1–18

WEEK 104  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

Rv 14:1–20 Rv 15:1–8 Rv 16:1–21 Rv 17:1–18:8 Rv 18:9–24 Rv 19:1–21

WEEK 101  Mon  Tues  Wed  Thurs  Fri  Sat

1Jn 1:1–10 1Jn 2:1–27 1Jn 2:28–3:24 1Jn 4:1–21 1Jn 5:1–21 2Jn 1–13

WEEK 105  Mon  Tues  Wed

Rv 20:1–15 Rv 21:1–27 Rv 22:1–21

Readings for the above plan are from the Lutheran Study Bible © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. To purchase this resource or other Bible reading resources, please visit CPH at www.cph.org. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

Presidential Perspective

A Place for Comfort President Robert Bugbee

f you read the New Testament faithfully, you will see that the early Christian congregations were not perfect places. Beautiful things happened in them, to be sure. Painful disappointments were there, too, however. Some people lied to the apostles about their giving to the church. Others were proud due to spiritual “wisdom” they thought set them above everybody else. Still others left the faith because they were too in love with the world. So the early Christians had to struggle. Pastors like Paul and Barnabas told believers to expect it. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said (Acts 14:22). Jesus’ followers faced pressure from a hostile world around them; no surprise there. They had to endure discord within the church family, as the Bible makes clear. Then there’s also the struggle going on inside you between temptations to sin and your desire to go the Lord’s way through faith in Jesus. Struggles wear you down. They dishearten. This means the church is full of people who need comfort badly. Sometimes you are one of them; I certainly am. You can be sure that there are others in your church family in the same situation. Our churches ought to be places where men and women find comfort. What is comfort, anyway? In the Bible’s way of figuring, it’s not a sleeping pill or some magical formula that suddenly—poof!— makes trouble go away. It isn’t an easy word somebody speaks to make you numb, so you don’t feel struggles anymore. Years ago on The Lutheran Hour I recall Dr. Oswald

Hoffmann describing comfort like this: to strengthen greatly. He meant that comfort supports you— like one of those old-fashioned stretch bandages—so you hold together, have more stamina, can keep functioning. Jesus’ apostles spoke this strong brand of comfort into the early churches they planted. They didn’t offer a fairy-tale promise to fix every problem in five minutes or less. They did pump fresh encouragement and strength to face the struggles in the power of God’s Holy Spirit. Any worthwhile comfort you offer a believing friend in the body of Christ can never really come from you. Scripture calls our Lord “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). This is comfort the faithless world does not know. It runs deeper than the typical pep-talks telling you to “keep a stiff upper lip” or that “things will turn out okay.” The fact is my capacity to stay strong falls flat sometimes. I imagine you are like me in having lived through struggles that did not end very well. God’s comfort is rooted in Jesus and what He has done for you. He died to win your pardon. He was raised again to open heaven’s kingdom to you. In Jesus you have God’s pledge your prayers are being heard, and that He gives you power to cope... even if a given sorrow does not end well, or even if you have to endure a struggle that drags on without end. “He Who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all... how will He not also, together with Him, graciously

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN July/August 2016

give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). One of those things God gives is help when you’re up against it. The Christian church ought to be a place where people receive comfort for their wounds, whether pressures from the world around, bitter disappointments that surface even within the church, and the struggles you feel with personal sin and weakness inside. Comfort comes when Christ’s Good News is faithfully preached, and when people feast on His body and blood at the Lord’s Table. Comfort is also a powerful treasure you can share with other believers when you take a serious interest in them, stand by them when they’re struggling, and speak to them the same comfort God has brought you in Christ. You don’t need me to point out that our Canadian society has changed. It doesn’t affirm biblical Christianity much anymore. Many believers in Christ will quite likely not survive in the faith unless they live by Word and prayer. Local churches that hope to endure in the changing world around us will need to be ever more nurturing places where their people receive the kind of comfort you can only get from Jesus. Armed with that God-given comfort, the early Christians coped. Their world wasn’t easy on them. They weren’t spared discord in their churches. They also felt the wearying struggle with sin inside, just as you do. But the comfort Christ brings carried them. That comfort, like a heartbeat, can be alive and real as you turn it loose and aim it at someone who needs it right now.

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