Download Vol. 47 No. 18 October 21, 2009 - Evangelical Mennonite Conference

service
Anabaptist
The strengths and
weaknesses of our
terminology
personal
community
piety
Protestant
first-century
authority
and life
socially
conscious
baptism
Lord
regeneration
worship
creed
Creator
Evangelical
will of
God
discipleship
testament
ethics
conversion martyr
Christ
missions
transformation
Bible
churches
atonement
volume 47, number 18
October 21, 2009
resurrection
justice
Jesus
obedience
beliefs
witness
peacemaking
a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference
gospel
MESSENGER
THE
Christ-like
revival
a Reformation Sunday feature
www.emconf.ca/Messenger
editorials
Celebrating the Protestant Reformation
N
ext year the Lutheran World
Federation, according to
an announcement at Mennonite World Conference’s
general assembly, will not celebrate
its 500th anniversary because of the
Reformation’s divisiveness. This is unfortunate.
Yes, we can regret the fragmentation
of the Christian Church into hundreds
We can regret the fragmentation of the Christian Church into
hundreds of denominations, but
this doesn’t mean we can dismiss
Reformation history.
of denominations. Today there is much
evidence of the Church recognizing
that it is ultimately one: one Body, one
Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith,
one baptism, one God and Father of
all (Ephesians 4:4-6). We can rejoice
in the World Evangelical Alliance and
Mennonite World Conference.
None of this means, though, that we
can dismiss Reformation history.
The Protestant Reformation had
many causes—theological, political,
economic, the Renaissance. But a debate began about how Christ’s grace
touches an individual, shapes a congregation, and establishes the Christian Church.
The Protestant Reformation saw
a return to a richer understanding of
the Christian gospel. This is worth celebrating!
Perhaps the LWF’s choice is, in part,
a response to its decision in 1999 to
sign, with the Roman Catholic Church,
a Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of
Justification (an action that not all Lutherans supported). If so, it is further
evidence of how it was unwise to sign
the statement.
One hopes the LWF will reconsider
its decision. Celebrating the grace
of Christ can be done openly, as my
former professor Alvin Lewis once
preached, without throwing stones at
T
the Roman Catholic Church. M
Terry M. Smith
Keeping our grip on Scripture
A
s we approach Reformation
Sunday, we recall that imprisoned early Anabaptists
sometimes amazed their
interrogators with their knowledge of
Scripture. Harold S. Bender has written that Menno Simons was saturated
with Scripture.
What of Evangelical Anabaptists’
use of Scripture today?
Today fewer EMCers take their Bible
to worship services. Frequently little
Scripture is read at services (perhaps
an opening verse or two, a brief reading
of one passage, and a benediction).
Doctrinal preaching is frowned
upon. Theology is considered too ab-
EDITOR
Terry M. Smith
[email protected]
ASSISTANT
EDITOR
Rebecca Roman
[email protected]
Address changes and submissions to
The Messenger should be sent to
[email protected]
MESSENGER SCHEDULE:
No. 20 – November 18
(copy due November 6)
2
stract. Sermons are getting shorter. Bible paraphrases are read in public. All
of this weakens the Scripture-based
nature of our churches.
By keeping our grip on Scripture,
we retain our grasp on the non-negotiable core of our Christian faith and on
the Church’s mission.
By taking a personal Bible to a worship service, we remember at what
great cost the translation, printing,
By taking a personal Bible to a worship service, we remember at what
great cost the common ownership
of the Scriptures has come to us.
THE MESSENGER is the publication of the
Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is
available to the general public. Its purpose
is to inform concerning events and
activities in the denomination, instruct in
godliness and victorious living, inspire to
earnestly contend for the faith.
Letters, articles, photos and poems are
welcomed. Unpublished material is not
returned except by request. Views and
opinions of writers are their own and do
not necessarily represent the position of
the Conference or the editors.
THE MESSENGER is published twice a
month (once a month in July and August)
by the EMC Board of Church Ministries,
440 Main St., Steinbach, Man.
Subscriptions: Canadian subscriptions
are $24 for one year, $44 for two years,
distribution, and common ownership
of the Scriptures has come to us.
To strengthen our personal use of
the Bible is to recall that the study,
discernment, teaching, and application of Scriptural truths are corporate
tasks. Such a duty is not to be left to
paid clergy to whom we simply defer
in matters of interpretation and application; this would be, in fact, a reversion to a pre-Reformation past.
This does not mean that we can
simply rest in individual interpretation only: “my Bible says” or what
“the Bible means to me.” This is far
from what the Protestant Reformation
T
meant by “Scripture only.” M
Terry M. Smith
$65 for three years (Manitoba residents
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for one year, $55 for two years, $82 for
three years; all other countries are $45 for
one year, $85 for two years, $125 for three
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optional to people within or outside of the
EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the
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Mailing information: Undelivered
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E-mail: [email protected].
MESSENGER
On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
letters
‘By His stripes we are healed’
I would like to thank Flo Friesen for
her excellent look at the topic of Divine
Healing in the September 16 issue of The
Messenger. Some very good questions
were raised.
I don’t think it was a coincidence that
just a few days before we got our copy at
home, my wife and I looked up the EMC
position on healing. Perhaps the title of
Article 7 should read Divine Suffering,
seeing about two-thirds of it deals with
that topic.
In my opinion, through Adam’s sin,
what became “natural” for us now is
pain, suffering, and death. Yes, God
can use these in “supernatural” ways to
refine our faith, perfect
our hope, wean us from
sin, train us in holiness,
and deepen our relationship with Jesus
(see 1 Peter).
Through the second Adam, Jesus,
we have the position
and authority to take back that
ground given away a long time ago. Yes,
Flo, “by His stripes we are healed.”
Darrel Guenther
Steinbach, Man.
writings shared
Bernardine Plett
Laina, Betty Barkman (self-published, 2006). 260 pp., $13,
ISBN 978-155-09150-4. Reviewed by Bernardine Plett, retired
homemaker, minister’s wife, and part of Steinbach EMC.
W
hat do you do when a
story needs to be told,
yet a family member
cannot put down the
words? Betty Barkman, wife of Pastor
Leonard Barkman (Pansy Chapel), has
creatively, and courageously, written
the story of her mother-in-law Helena
(Laina) Plett.
Laina is the story of a child born
into a German Mennonite family in
1912, while focusing on her life from
1919 till the 1940s. It is, however, not
only her story; it is equally the stories
of her parents (called Pa and Ma).
Laina loved learning and
experiencing new things.
Life was an adventure,
especially in her early
childhood. She was shy, but
dependably cared for her
younger siblings, even at
seven. Her imagination and
intuitive nature sometimes
brought her into dark and
depressing moods.
Laina’s first big
adventure happened at
seven years old. The family moved
west by wagon 20 miles, from
Blumenhof to Landmark, Man., where
they lived in primitive, near-pioneer
conditions.
Laina gives us a glimpse of a
beautiful relationship of a godly father
to his wife and children. Her dad, David
K. Plett, was of a cheerful nature, often
whistling and singing at his work,
positively affirming the children in
their work on the farm and at school.
Pa became Laina’s hero. She worked
alongside him, doing chores and field
work.
Laina’s mother Elisabeth (Lees) was
hard-working, rising to any
emergency with a strong,
steady hand. Her childhood
was, however, insecure,
and was the reason for dark
moods and unwarranted
anger. Lees’ mother Maria
Esau (nee Unger) died when
Lees was 11 months old.
Lees was brought up by her
grandparents, who showed
her much love.
Laina, openly told, is a clear example of how our everyday lives affect
and influence our family and others around us.
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
Hey, Corey, thanks!
I wanted to thank you for
your article in The Messenger
(October 7 edition) on Berekah: a
life of praise. It reinforced for me
the absolute transforming power
of a life of “lived thankfulness.”
I grew up with a dad who sometimes embarrassed me as a teenager because of his very overt and
knee-jerk habit of spontaneously
thanking God out loud for circumstances or events that were unremarkable and routine to me.
As an adult, however, I recognize
how deeply his instincts have shaped my
life into one of intentional thankfulness
and I am very grateful for that heritage.
At the same time, I recognize how
quick I can head “into the ditch” in my
life as I experience successes, stresses,
or failures which I naturally want to
attribute to failings or strengths in me
and/or the people around me.
Thank you for the reminder: “Giving
thanks for the blessing of this day, for
redemption, and for re-creation, all
three, is an act of faith precisely because
we see so much chaos all around us”!
Bruce Penner
Steinbach, Man.
Article Correction
In Corey Herlevsen’s Berekah: a life
of praise (Oct. 7, 2009) the Hebrew
lettering was inadvertently flipped
in layout preparation.
Editor
Then her father John Esau left the
family when Lees was 12 years old,
and this made her feel unloved and
insecure. She experienced depression
at times.
Laina had an inner longing to know
more about God, and it was through
the example and help of her Pa and Ma
that led her to experience the reality
of God.
Laina, openly told, is a clear
example of how our everyday lives
affect and influence our family and
others around us.
It is a story of pioneer struggle and
church life, of illness both physical
and mental, and of Christ’s mysterious
T
grace scattered throughout. M
3
regeneration
I
Anabaptist
The strengths and
weaknesses of our
terminology
Evangelical
The term evangelical, while associated with any
number of reform movements in the history of Christianity, customarily refers to a modern phenomenon that
emerged from various reforming streams in the 17th and
18th century, such as Puritanism, Pietism, Methodism,
and the Great Awakening.
community
piety
witness
service
Protestant
first-century
authority
and life
socially
conscious
personal
worship
t is common for Mennonites to identify themselves
as Anabaptists and Evangelicals. This is certainly
the kind of language that I have sometimes used to
introduce the Mennonite faith perspective to others.
Shorthand descriptions of this nature can be useful in that they can effectively communicate to others
the nature of our beliefs without us having to resort
to long-winded explanations. Yet I suspect that using
abbreviations to describe ourselves can also lead to
considerable misunderstanding. The words we use may
not always communicate accurately what we hope to
bring across.
It is sometimes assumed, for instance, that Evangelicals are Christians that give special emphasis to the
authority of Scripture, the centrality of Christ, the importance of having a conversion experience, cultivating
a personal relationship with Jesus, and being committed
to the ministry of evangelism.
While such a list of descriptions might aptly describe
some of the primary characteristics of present-day
mainstream evangelicalism in North America, it is questionable whether this is truly an adequate or complete
description of the Evangelical tradition as it has expressed itself over time and around the world.
4
gospel
conversion martyr
baptism
Lord
Creator
testament
ethics
Evangelical
will of
God
discipleship
transformation
Christian
resurrection
missions
atonement
Holy Spirit
evangelism
creed
churches
beliefs
Christ
obedience
peacemaking
Bible
Jesus
justice
Reformation Sunday
Christ-like
revival
Karl Koop, Ph.D.
To be sure these streams within Christianity which
have evolved into the modern-day Evangelical movement have placed significant emphasis on the authority
of Scripture, the centrality of Christ, a commitment to
evangelism, and so on.
Yet as the movement has developed over time, it has
also expressed itself in a variety of other ways, often
including the social dimensions of the gospel message,
such as the call to peace-making and living justly.
It is noteworthy that Evangelicals have often been
at the forefront in fighting poverty, abolishing slavery,
promoting education among the lower classes, and
advocating for women’s rights.
The American Colonization Society founded by Evangelicals in the early nineteenth century, for example,
was directly involved in buying slaves, setting them free
and returning them to their African homeland.
The Great Awakening of the late eighteenth century,
while associated with great emotional outbursts and a
developing interest in personal inward piety, was instrumental in promoting women’s rights. The beginnings of
the American feminist movement can be traced directly
to socially conscious Evangelicals who were shaped by
the religious revivalism of the time.
Most of us do not readily associate the Evangelical
movement with social causes. There was certainly a
time when I did not make this connection.
Then I began to pay attention to the various impulses
that gave rise to modern Evangelicalism and I began to
take notice of the way in which its current manifestations have shown an active interest in feeding the hungry, taking care of the sick, helping the homeless, and
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
promoting peace in areas of conflict.
Clearly Evangelicalism has been a movement that has
strived to be faithful to all the various dimensions of the
gospel message.
Anabaptist
Turning to Anabaptism, here too we discover a tradition that is often misunderstood. Anabaptism is known
for its emphasis on peace and justice issues, yet there
is much more to the tradition than this. To be sure, the
Anabaptists that emerged from the sixteenth-century
Reformation placed great value on pacifism and many
advocated for a greater level of justice in the realm of
economics and politics.
This concern, however, was not driven, first of all,
by human aspirations. The ethical impulse of Anabaptism was under-girded by a profound spirituality that
was based on living “in Christ.” The emphasis on living
peacefully and justly was the result of having abandoned selfish desires and yielding to the will of God.
Anabaptists repeatedly spoke of the Christian life
as an experience of regeneration and becoming more
Christ-like, and even participating in the divine nature
itself. They believed that this was possible through the
power of the Holy Spirit. They routinely appropriated
the language of rebirth, or new birth, with the assumption that the one who experienced conversion was a
new creation. The church was viewed as a new reality
because of the transforming nature of conversion.
Anabaptist martyrs did not willingly give up their
lives for the sake of some social cause. Their readiness
to die was a direct result of a profound inner spiritual
awakening, and an inner transformation brought on by
the transforming power of Christ’s atonement and the
ongoing activity of the Holy Spirit.
I suspect that using abbreviations to describe
ourselves can lead to considerable misunderstanding. The words we use may not always
communicate accurately what we hope to
bring across.
They wanted to be like Jesus, who emptied himself
and abandoned everything as an act of obedience to
God. And they understood their willingness to die as a
missionary witness for the world to see.
Today, many Anabaptist Christians continue to
believe that the Christian life is about being like Jesus,
about attending to the inner as well as the outer dimensions of the spiritual life.
In fact, there seems to be a renewed interest among
contemporary Anabaptists for the spiritual life that is
focused on the worship of God, devotion to Christ, and
attentiveness to the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit.
This seems to be coming at a time when there is also a
renewed interest among evangelicals to understand the
gospel in terms of discipleship, service, justice, and peace.
Developments
Such developments beg the question as to whether
using terms like Anabaptist and Evangelical together to
describe our faith traditions is all that necessary. Do we
really need to place these two terms together as a way of
letting others know that our faith tradition is balanced
or all-encompassing? Is it possible that these traditions
stand on their own, needing no complimentary theological stream to offset presumed shortcomings?
Putting it this way, of course, makes it sound as
though Anabaptists and Evangelicals have arrived at
some level of self-sufficiency. Yet no tradition is truly
self-sufficient and we can all surely learn from one another. Of course, even when we depend on each other,
we are still in need of God’s grace.
That said, most of us choose specific ways to describe our spiritual home. For many Mennonites, Anabaptist is that kind of place because of all that tradition
stands for.
For other Mennonites, the term Evangelical must be
added because the denomination to which they belong
has an important historical connection to the Evangelical movement, or their own experience has led them to
want to identify with more than one religious culture.
Perhaps the term is also important because it highlights
the importance of mission.
Whatever ways we choose to describe ourselves,
we need to be mindful of the language that we employ.
There are, without question, some differences between
historic Evangelicalism and Anabaptism. This is evident
when one notices how the two have developed over the
T
centuries. But the commonalities are also striking. M
Karl Koop is associate professor of history and
theology at Canadian Mennonite University
and the director of the MA programs in
theological studies and Christian ministry. He is
editor of Confessions of Faith in Anabaptism
1527-1660 (Kitchener: Pandora Press, 2006)
and author of Anabaptist-Mennonite
Confessions of Faith: The Development of a
Tradition (Kitchener: Pandora Press, 2004).
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
5
with our missionaries
The Philippines/U.S.
Dining with heroes
On September 25, 2009, we were
privileged to dine with heroes, men
and women who have served the Lord
for most of their adult lives and now
at retirement age continue to serve
tirelessly as the Lord enables them.
Paul and Oreta Burnham arrived in the
Philippines in May 1970 and, because of
39 years of faithful ministry, there is a
thriving church in the Ibaloi tribe today.
Burnhams raised their five children in
the tribe. Later four children and their
spouses returned to continue their
parents’ legacy.
Martin, their oldest son, gave his life
for his Lord after he and Gracia spent a
year in captivity in 2001. During that time,
Paul and Oreta parented Martin’s three
children in the U.S. Although retired
from New Tribes Mission, Paul and Oreta
travel to assist in Bible translation into
the Ibaloi language and to reconnect
with believers.
We have been friends with the
Burnham family since our years in the
Philippines and were delighted to hear
they were visiting. We invited two other
couples, along with the Burnhams, for a
Filipino dinner.
We glimpsed what it will be
like in glory when we sit at the
marriage supper of the Lamb
and feast with those who have
come before us in the faith.
Edna and Jim Ferguson, Oreta and Paul Burnham, Monty and Kathy Rasmussen, Ellen Koop
Jim and Edna Ferguson retired from
NTMA and live here in McNeal. Earlier,
Jim was a crop duster pilot to support his
family. After joining New Tribes Mission,
he and another pilot were challenged to
start a program to provide air support for
missionaries serving in tribal locations.
They purchased their first airplane
in 1969 and based it out of Jersey Shore,
Pennsylvania. From July 1972 to April
1976, Jim served as the pilot for the
program on the island of Luzon in the
Philippines and provided Burnhams with
service in and out of the Ibaloi tribe.
Upon returning to the U.S., Fergusons
served in leadership with NTM Aviation
in Nebraska and Arizona until retiring in
April 2002.
Join with Christ
in shaping our
world
Evangelical Mennonite Conference
Board of Missions
204-326-6401
[email protected]
www.emconf.ca
6
Monty and Kathie Rasmussen arrived
in the Philippines in November 1970 with
their four children; they served on both
Palawan and Luzon until relocating to
McNeal in 1986. Martin Burnham flew in
and out of the tribe for years in Monty’s
plane. He claimed Monty’s example challenged him to become a missionary pilot.
We met Monty and Kathie in May 1982
when we first arrived in the Philippines.
They have been dear friends and close
associates ever since and we praise the
Lord for their example. Although they
are at retirement age, Monty works parttime in our engine shop and Kathie and
I co-teach a student ladies’ class every
Tuesday morning.
As we sat at dinner and listened to
these six reminisce about early days in
the Philippines, laughter sporadically
erupted from the group. We glimpsed
what it will be like in glory when we sit
at the marriage supper of the Lamb and
feast with those who have come before
us in the faith.
The words of Steve Green’s song Find
Us Faithful kept running through my
mind: “Oh may all who come behind us
find us faithful.”
Ellen Koop
Ellen and Phil Koop (Kleefeld) serve in
administration with New Tribes Missions
Aviation in McNeal, Arizona.
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
with our missionaries
Mexico
CME challenged to help the wounded
The German Conferencia Misionera
Evangelica (Evangelical Missionary Conference, CME) held its annual meeting on
September 12–13, 2009, on the campus of
Steinreich Bible School.
SBS is located near the centre of the
state of Chihuahua. Family gathered
from all the main points of the compass,
the north and south, and the east and
west. They gathered and in greater numbers than in previous years. Thanks go
to God, our Father!
We were privileged to have EMC representatives Tim Dyck and Ken Zacharias and Jacob Friesen from the EMMC.
Jacob was also our guest speaker for the
weekend.
Our whole conference was blessed
through the challenging messages
brought by Mr. Friesen. Our Saturday
morning worship service was geared towards the youth. Worship was led by the
El Valle youth worship team, and Jacob
spoke out of Luke 12:13–21, a challenge
“to hold onto the things that last.”
After the service the youth went to
an outing at the gym in Camp 79. It was
estimated that there were from 60 to
70 youth that participated in the event.
Youth, you are a generation that makes
an impact now and in the future.
During the Saturday evening service
Mr. Friesen spoke on who is our neighbour. This was a great challenge to step
outside of our “shells” or the four walls
of our sanctuaries, which culture, religion, and tradition have formed over or
around us, to help the wounded in this
world (Luke 10:25–37).
Sunday morning was another awesome message. God rejoices over the
lost sinner when he is found. Likewise,
the church should rejoice, instead of
acting like the older son in Luke 15. The
worship in both services was also meaningful, which was led by El Valle worship
team.
John Froese
President, CME
South Africa
Trials that come
“Dear brothers and sisters, whenever
trouble comes your way, let it be an
opportunity for joy. For when your faith
is tested, your endurance has a chance
to grow. So let it grow, for when your
endurance is fully developed you will
be strong in character and ready for
anything” (James 1:2–4 NLT).
Pain and trials are labeled negative.
Things have been tough and it always
seemed that if we would wait another
week then there would be more good
things to write about.
In some ways things do look brighter
today than they have for a long time.
Besides, according to James, trials
are investments that result in positive
returns: joy, endurance, character!
Leaders of the Evangelical Church
reported discussions with government
over land title deeds. One involves a
property that TEAM gave to the church
back in the 70s. Documentation reveals
that the church has legal permission to
occupy the land, but there seems to be
no deed that proves the land belongs to
it. Will they have to give it up?
A donor shipped a container of used
clothes to Mozambique to distribute
among the needy. Expenses paid to release the container equaled the cost
of getting it to Maputo. Thanks to the
same donor, expenses were paid.
On September 3 we were traveling
to Johannesburg when our vehicle’s
engine blew its coolant. We were
able to rent a car and continue with
our itinerary, but tests on our vehicle revealed a crack requiring a new
cylinder head.
We were having Leadership
Team meetings when Joe’s family
contacted us. Our dear brother,
One of our associated schools, Durban Bible College, is
husband, and father, Ben Reimer,
severely short of instructors. Joe has stepped into that need
had passed away at home in
and is teaching a course, to an attentive 10 students, on
Winnipeg, Man., from heart disease
the church’s opportunities to minister to HIV/AIDS-related
on September 11. After phone calls,
challenges.
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
prayer, and delegating responsibility, we
went home for the funeral and to be with
family. We were gone for 10 days.
On July 16 Olga had a flare-up in her
lower spine, which resulted in visits
to doctors and a physiotherapist. Hip
and leg pain related to lumbar spinal
challenges were in her history, but she
coped with treatment and exercise.
Now nothing brought relief. A specialist
said surgery was the only answer. After
prayer and deliberation we agreed and a
lengthy insurance deliberation ensued.
Surgery was set for October 2. Then
came Joe’s brother’s funeral, which we
could go to with the airline’s wheelchair
offer.
On our return, surgery happened on
October 8 at Durban. Olga is wiped from
everything, but surgery is behind us and
we look forward to better days.
Please pray for Olga’s recovery. She
was in to be in hospital for a week. It will
be another five weeks at home before
she can lift anything more than a utensil.
Yes, I am sharpening my housekeeping
skills!
Joe Reimer
Joe and Olga Reimer (Blumenort) serve
with TEAM in South Africa and elsewhere
in southern Africa.
7
with our missionaries
Canada
Missionary fellowship: who cares?
What do we do with our spiritual struggles? Who do we talk to
when the going gets tough? How
do we serve in the midst of spiritual dryness?
These and others were the
questions that were addressed
by Daryl Climenhaga, our guest
speaker at the EMC Missionary
Fellowship at Ridgewood EMC, on
Tuesday, September 8.
Dr. Climenhaga, the Associate
Professor of Global Studies at
Providence College and Seminary,
shared his personal testimony
of spiritual dryness and how the Lord
led him through that difficult time. He
went on to lead a discussion on things
such as the difference between spiritual
attack and depression, the value of peer
support, and God’s healing hand through
dreams and visions.
There were 24 missionaries in
attendance during the afternoon session,
which represented all our missionaries on
Home Ministry Assignment this summer.
Incorporating this afternoon session into
our existing format was quite useful, as it
included a workshop and a small groups
discussion time.
Another benefit was creating a safe
place for workers to share current ministry concerns with one another with the
purpose of imparting relevant solutions
and supporting one another in prayer.
Beth Koehler, Kirsten Kroeker, and Lesley
and Marianne Fast—specifically invited
ahead of time to share—blessed us with
stories of challenge, victory, and thanksgiving in the good times and the bad.
Several other missionaries also
spoke of struggles they had faced or
ways in which they had experienced the
care of others, including that of fellow
missionaries, home offices, national
believers and friends, both Christians
and non-believers alike.
Sixteen retired missionaries joined in
for supper, served by several ladies from
the host church. In total 59 people were
in attendance, including staff and Board
of Missions members.
After a time of worship through song,
led by Darrel and Audrey Guenther, we
were also encouraged by a devotional
shared by Faith Krahn, a Board of
Missions member. We ended our evening
by mentioning items of need and concern
8
Twenty-four missionaries attended the afternoon session.
Daryl Climenhaga, guest speaker, shared
how the Lord led through a difficult time.
Kirsten Kroeker, Beth Koehler, and Marianne Fast were invited to share current ministry concerns during the
afternoon session.
In the evening missionaries and Board of Missions staff and members gathered for worship, a devotional, and
sharing and prayer.
(photos by Gerald D. Reimer)
and then holding these people up in
small group prayer.
It is our desire, as Board of Missions
staff, to find creative and useful ways to
care for our front-line missionaries. Our
ongoing prayer is that they would go out
in joy and be led forth in peace.
Gerald D. Reimer
Gerald D. Reimer (Steinbach EFC) is
Conference Youth Minister, and relates halftime to the EMC Board of Missions.
Ken Zacharias, a staff member relating to the Board of
Missions, and John Bueckert, Board of Missions chair,
spoke during the evening session.
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
with our churches
Diversity in the family
They have become friends,
Steinbach EMC (Man.): On
in spite of the language barrier,
Sunday, May 24, we had a “family
with whom we can laugh or
gathering” where we listened to
share concerns, as extended
the testimonies (or as Pastor
family members in Colombia
Garry Koop said, “spiritual
continue to be in danger. Their
autobiographies”) of three
many expressions of thanks
couples who had requested
to God for bringing them to
membership transfers to our
our country and safety has
church and three young people
reminded us of how fortunate
who had decided to follow the
we are to live in Canada and that
Lord in baptism.
we have the privilege of sharing
Every one of us has a unique
God’s goodness with them.
story of the work of God in our
Children are always welcome
lives, and the only way we will
Our Colombian family: Katerine, Marco, Cristian and Amparo.
in our church family as well, and
hear these stories is if we share
them. We were blessed as they shared
After several months of anticipation one of the more recent additions comes
their spiritual journeys, their joys and and preparation, in May we welcomed a all the way from Ethiopia. Leonard and
sorrows, their defeats and victories, refugee family from Colombia: Amparo, Christine Dueck and their two children
and the different ways in which God is her two grown sons, Marco and Cristian, welcomed a beautiful little daughter,
continuing to work in their lives.
and a daughter-in-law, Katerine. As a Gracia, into their family in July.
God loves variety and diversity—and
It was interesting to note the different church, we have agreed to sponsor
countries that were mentioned— them for a year, through MCC’s Refugee so should we! Whether we are from
Germany, Ireland, Colombia, Brazil,
Germany, Peru, Brazil, Ireland, Canada— Sponsorship Program.
places where they had either been born
This family is gifted artistically, and Ethiopia or Canada, male or female,
and raised or had served in short-term most of them have a good education. They young or old, we are all one in Christ and
missions. Each story was different, have all found jobs and are also enrolled part of His family around the world.
Martha Kroeker
showing the variety of ways in which the in English classes. Our congregation has
Lord draws people to Himself, transforms been enriched by their presence.
their lives, and uses them in His service.
The following Sunday we had the joy
of accepting Rob and Sharon Steeves,
Dean and Kaylene Buhler, and Michael
and Melissa Thiessen into our church
family. We also welcomed the three
young people who were baptized, Sandra
Heilmann, Adam Friesen and Nikki
Penner.
God gives different gifts to different
people, and these new members have
already blessed us in a variety of ways
with their gifts, serving in the music
ministry, participating in Vacation Bible New members at SEMC: Michael amd Melissa Thiessen, Rob and Sharon Steeves, and Dean and Kaylene Buhler.
School and Bible camps, and just by
their presence.
Retreat brings worshipful reflection
Fish Creek (Calgary, Alta.): Once
again Fish Creek Christian Fellowship
embarked on our annual church retreat
weekend. This year our guest speaker
was Peter Hill. Along with his wife,
Danielle, the two led us in meaningful
worship and song experiences.
Peter Hill grew up on the east coast of
Canada. They currently make their home
in Calgary. Peter began his involvement
with music ministry at the age of eleven
and has cultivated a heart desire for
authentic worship ever since. He travels
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
across Canada speaking to churches and
leads training seminars on music and
worship. He has a passion to see people
equipped and encouraged in their faith,
in their abilities and in their ministries.
Peter is also the author of The Process
of Purity. Throughout the weekend, he
spoke to us about living our lives as
an act of worship. He says, “Winning
some of our battles involves our active
participation in the starving of our sinful
nature.”
How true this is! Romans 12:1 says,
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view
of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as
living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to
God—this is your spiritual act of worship.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern
of this world, but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind. Then you will be
able to test and approve what God’s will
is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Meanwhile, our pastor Scott Koop has
begun teaching a series on the book of
Acts, which is equally inspiring.
Joyce Landis
9
with our churches
VBS held, pastor sought
Creighton, Sask.: Up to 34 children
registered throughout the Vacation
Bible School held at Northern Fellowship
Chapel from August 17–21.
The children were occupied with
music, stories, games, snacks and
crafts. Song leader Deb Odegaard and
story teller Sandra Schroeder kept
the children’s interest. Skit characters
(puppets Froggie and Susie) led the
children in a variety of adventures as
they went Searching for Treasure, which
was the theme for the week.
Jeffery Odegaard and Henry Rempel
were able skit characters and helpers.
Margaret Buie helped to lead the singing
and work with the youngest class.
Margaret Moorhead kept the children
fed and happy with snacks and Lorne
Moorhead adeptly guided the older class
in discussion and games.
Coordinator Janice Imrie worked with
adults and children during the week. The
program was held on Friday with many
parents in attendance.
Northern Fellowship Chapel shares
leadership with Cornerstone Community
Church (Mennonite Brethren) in Flin
Flon, Man. Pastor Scott Koop (and
Natalie, Spencer and Marissa) was
officially finished at the end of July and
has moved to Selkirk. We miss them so
much. We have an active joint pastoral
search committee to fill Scott’s position.
Some of the scholars at VBS.
Cornerstone also had its 25th
anniversary on August 28–30.
On this anniversary weekend,
Northern Fellowship hosted a
breakfast on Sunday, August 30,
for pastors Scott and Natalie and
family, Dale and Marge Warkentin
(Carmen, Man.) and Ted and Mary
Goossen (Thompson, Man.).
Northern Fellowship Chapel
is also hosting the EMC Region 3
Ministerial meeting on Monday,
September 14, 2009.
Janice Imrie
Sandra Schroeder guides during VBS.
Trio baptized at Taber
Taber, Alta.: On June 28, 2009, we had
three more people join our membership
with baptism by immersion. It was such a
blessing to hear the testimonies of these
three young people. It is just so amazing
to see how God works in each one of us
differently and the desires He puts on
our hearts to follow Him.
Eva Koethler
Helen Reimer is baptized with senior
pastor Dave Wiebe and youth pastor
Dave Sawatzky nearby.
10
Youth pastor Dave Sawatzky (left) and senior pastoral couple Audrey
and Dave Wiebe (right) stand with baptismal candidates Pancho
Sawatzky, Helen Reimer, and Lorena Enns.
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
with our churches
Celebration Sunday at CBF
of being a leader there.
Swan River, Man.: On a
Kevin and Carolyn Penner’s
beautiful Sunday evening,
two sons played music once
many
people
gathered
more with their Dad before
at the home of Don and
heading off to Bible College in
Darlene Buhler to celebrate
Steinbach. They both spent
the events of the summer.
time working in children’s
Celebration Sunday began
camps this summer.
several years ago as a way to
There were teens who
encourage youth and adults
have been to camp for several
who gave their summers to
years and for others it was a
God to serve in camps and
new and exciting experience.
other summer missions’
Some women shared about
projects.
Melissa Buhler
cooking at camp and
This year Melissa Buhler
was home for three weeks from Los enjoying the fellowship of other women
Angles where she serves with YWAM who worked in the same kitchen.
Pastor John Reimer talked about
and shared with us the highs and lows
his cycling for camps with
his nephews out West. Other
people shared about their
family reunions, vacation trips,
and meeting new people.
Of course, there were prayer
requests as well. As night was
falling, the campfire was lit and
coffee cups were refilled. It was
a good time.
Betty Warkentin
Many people gathered at Don and Darlene Buhler’s home.
People come and go
Morris, Man.: What a wonderful God we
have! After a long cold and rainy summer,
He has given us wonderful warm and dry
autumn days. The farmers are grateful
for some good harvesting weather.
The activities in our church included
Vacation Bible School with more than
100 children attending and many
making decisions to follow Jesus. The
Sunday School picnic was enjoyed at
the Rosenort Arena, beginning with the
morning worship service, a barbecue
for lunch, and lots of activities before
watermelon was served.
It was special for us to wish interim
pastoral couple Mel and Mary Koop
congratulations on their 50th wedding
anniversary on August 16. We said
goodbye to Ed and Dorothy Thiessen
with a few group farewell parties. They
have moved to Three Hills, Alta., to
manage seniors’ facilities.
Dwane and Charlene Wiebe and Brad
and Cheryl Klippenstein were welcomed
into our fellowship with Mel Koop officiating. On June 7 we were also blessed to
have six young people follow the Lord in
baptism with Mel Koop officiating.
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
On September 6 we held promotion
Sunday for the new Sunday
School year. Nathan Bartel,
our superintendent, led in a
prayer of dedication for all
the teachers before each one
led the youngsters to their
new classes.
Lorraine Loewen
Kevin Penner (right) and sons
only $2.50 each!
Pastors, youth/adult Sunday
School teachers, small group
leaders: Have you tried Follow
Me yet?
This 13-lesson study booklet is written
by EMCers for EMCers. Contact the
Conference office to get copies:
204-326-6401
[email protected]
New members: Dwane and Charlene
Wiebe, interim pastor Mel Koop, and
Cheryl and Brad Klippenstein.
Baptized were Caitlyn Nickel, Caleb Siemens, Marshall Janzen, Leah Bartel, Marilyn Janzen, and Ryan Tate.
11
pictures of God
Joanna Plett
J
Investing in the Upside Down Kingdom
ust a few blocks from our house stands a low,
properly. We seek to aid society in disposing of waste
dilapidated old building. It used to be a factory
completely and to pipe in fresh, living water.
or warehouse, I presume, but looks like it hasn’t
The underground also has many stories to tell that
been used recently. In front of the building is
the buildings above don’t necessarily reveal. Toronto
a flashy new sign advertising Up Side Down Condos,
was originally built in a region covered with rivers.
complete with directions to parking in the back.
The majority of those rivers were dammed, drained, or
If I were searching for a condominium, the popular
piped through underground drainage to Lake Ontario.
high rise housing choice for young adults in Toronto,
Today, Toronto still has many patches of soft or
I would certainly not visit this location. Based on its
marshy land, which are deemed unsafe for residential
exterior, the only way this place could fit the description development. Some of these properties, however, are
of a condo would be if it were not only
taken over by municipal governments
upside down, but also underground.
to build schools and other public
As Christians, we are called buildings.
First impressions do not compel me
to invest time, never mind money, into
As Christians, we serve underground
not only to invest in, but to
this property.
as watchpersons of the foundations
move into, an Upside Down of the city. We are called to watch for
I think non-Christians often look
at Christianity the way I look at
cracking ideological foundations and
Kingdom.
the Upside Down Condo. Despite
for public policies and values built
flashy signs and decent advertising,
on marshy ground. Underground, we
economically driven investors and culturally driven
serve as the maintenance people, plumbers, and repair
individuals are rarely drawn to a faith driven lifestyle.
people of society.
The Upside Down Condo can’t compete with high rise
Many may pass by with barely a glance, seeing only
condominiums on the harbour front and hardly appear
dilapidated warehouses of questionable investment
to be a lucrative long-term investment.
value. Yet the signs keep inviting them to enter the
As Christians, we are called not only to invest in, but
Upside Down Kingdom. Those who enter should find
to move into, an Upside Down Kingdom. God challenges themselves swept into a community at the core of
us to live with upside down values, asking us to make
society, cleansing corruption, repairing foundations,
long-term investments into the people we encounter
and piping living water into it through
and the communities we live in. We sacrifice time and
every accessible tap and
T
money, not for our own future returns, but for the
shower. M
)
a Plet t
Jo ann
y
growth of the kingdom.
b
to
( pho
The Upside Down Kingdom is not only upside down
in values, but also operates underground.
God has commissioned very few
of us to be towering high rises,
commanding the skyline of our
societies. He has called most of us to
be underground in our communities.
The underground may not be a fun
place to live, but it is essential to any
city.
The veins of the city run
underground, regulating the health
and cleanliness of the people through
sewers, waterworks, and drainage.
As preservers of society, Christians
are to help these amenities function
12
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
EMC
and
Statement of Faith
Church
Practices
A 25-part series
Ron Penner
The Board of Leadership and Outreach has invited EMC pastors and other
leaders to reflect on the meaning of our Statement of Faith and Church
Practices. These writings are intended to inform and to invite conversation.
In the end, this 25-part series might be published as a booklet. Have you
heard a sermon on these articles? Encourage the preacher to forward the
material to The Messenger.
9. THE STATE (abridged)
We believe that God has instituted human government.
We also believe this arrangement of government includes two basic
functions: directing the interaction of society and serving as God’s agent of
wrath of punishment.
We should determine all matters concerning the Christian and the state
by carefully interpreting the Scriptures with a deep sensitivity to the moral
problems involved (Matthew 4:8–10; 5:39–48; Luke 4:5–8; John 12:31; 16:11;
18:36; Acts 4:19; 5:29; Romans 12–14; 1 Timothy 2:1–3; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13–17;
1 John 5:19; Revelation 13).
Church Practices
Article 9: The State
F
or us today, as also for the early Anabaptists,
this issue separates us from some other
Christians. In the 16th century, some reformers
argued for a state-church society while the
Anabaptists insisted on the separation of church and
state. The position one adopts has implications for how
one relates to the state today.
This article underscores the clear affirmation of the
state as a divinely ordained institution. In Romans 13,
the Bible states God’s purpose for the state is to be his
agent in maintaining law and order generally and the
punishment of evildoers specifically. There are other
passages that support this view.
Our Church Practices emphasizes that we are to be
citizens who are law-abiding and submissive to the
laws of this land and to respect the state’s God-given
authority.
However, though our view of the state is generally
positive, there are limits to our allegiance. Our primary
allegiance is to Christ and his kingdom and when the
state enters the realm that belongs to Christ, we are
clear that the separation of church and state has
been violated.
Can citizens in the kingdom of God
participate in government? Vote?
Become members of various levels
of government?
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
“My Kingdom is not of this world,” Christ declared
emphatically (John 18:36) and when Satan offered the
world to him in his temptation in the wilderness from a
high mountain (Matthew 4:8-10), Jesus rejected it totally.
Disciples of Christ adopt the same mindset, since
we “have passed from the kingdom of darkness to the
kingdom of his beloved Son” (Colossians 1:13).
This article is important because we do not always
recognize the radical difference between these two
kingdoms. In this world, the government’s mandate is to
protect its citizens, exact justice, punish evildoers, and
maintain law and order by means of the power of the
police force, the judicial system, and, in some cases,
the military. Hallmarks of the Kingdom of God, on the
other hand, are love, peace, gentleness, grace, and
forgiveness.
The Church is the central agency of God to
demonstrate and proclaim this alternative kingdom
in this world.
• Where do the values of the two kingdoms clash
most frequently?
• Can citizens in the kingdom of God participate
in government? Vote? Become members of
various levels of government? Pay all taxes?
• Since the state uses force to enforce laws,
can a pacifist Christian join the police force?
• How can we respect the state and yet be
T
faithful to Christ? M
Ron Penner (Braeside) recently served as EMC
moderator.
13
in memory
DARRELL BRAUN
1960–2009
Darrell Braun was born on June 9,
1960, firstborn to Menno and Lucy Braun
of Landmark, Man. He passed away at
the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre
on Friday morning, June 26, 2009, after
collapsing meters from the finish line
at the Manitoba Marathon the previous
Sunday morning.
He leaves to mourn his sudden
passing his wife Jolyn, two daughters
Rochelle and Jaclyn, two sons Alek
and Dustin, his mother Lucy, his sister
Crystal, his brothers Russell (and Sarah)
and Trevor (and Sheila), plus nieces and
nephews, and all of Jolyn’s family as well
as many friends and relatives. He was
predeceased by his father, Menno Braun,
in 1994.
Darrell grew up and lived near
Landmark all his life. Horses were a deep
part of who he was, and he had a gift of
relating with them and training them.
Darrell farmed with his family—first with
his dad and brothers, and then with his
children and employees. Though farming
wasn’t always easy, he enjoyed his work.
Darrell was a man of integrity,
humility, and compassion. He knew
how to listen and how to love. Darrell’s
devotion to Jolyn is something the family
will always cherish. Darrell and Jolyn
found deep joy in each other and in their
shared interests.
Darrell also pursued relationships
with each of his children. Darrell and
Alek enjoyed farming together; Darrell
took joy watching Alek play soccer.
Darrell and Rochelle shared a passion
for horses and Darrell was thrilled about
her latest addition to her dog family, a
collie named Majesty.
Darrell and Jaclyn loved to run
together. Daily they would discuss race
times, and their training schedule for the
next race. They planned to run Boston
together. Darrell was excited about
Dustin’s interest in ball. He practiced
with him, made a lot of effort to drive him
to training, and the two of them enjoyed
a special week of ball in Tennessee
recently.
Our
family’s
farming
and
homeschooling lifestyle lent itself to
a sense of togetherness and provided
opportunity to work through the
challenges of relationship, for which we
are so grateful. Darrell was devoted to
His Maker, and had much influence on
us.
Similarly, Darrell cared for others,
including his church family at Prairie
Grove Fellowship. He took time to
build connection with people, and was
often found in the foyer listening and
encouraging.
The viewing service for Darrell was
held on June 29, 2009, at Birchwood
Funeral Home. The funeral was held at
Blumenort EMC the following day, with
burial at Pansy Chapel. The family thanks
you for your support, and welcomes your
continued prayers. We also appreciate
any memories you have of Darrell.
Darrell often prayed for others, that
their faith in God would increase. May
ours do so! Although we are shocked by
his sudden departure, and don’t want to
live without him, we find some comfort
in the fact that he now knows Love
completely, and he is running five-minute
miles on streets of gold.
His Family
25th Annual EM Cup Hockey Tournament
November 13–15, 2009
T. G. Smith Centre
Steinbach, Man.
For information,
contact Colin Loewen
204-346-1380
18 teams expected!
14
coming events
October 15–November 8
The Story and Song Tour
World Vision
Humourist Adrian Plass,
Musician Glen Soderholm
17 cities, B.C. to Maritimes
Talking, humour, storytelling,
music, worship, hope
www.storyandsong.ca
October 31
The Great Emergence: How Christianity
is Changing and Why
Phyllis Tickle
Booth College
Winnipeg, Man.
$75, $25 seniors/students
www.faithforum.ca
November 5–8
Business as a Calling 2009
New Frontiers: New Solutions
San Jose, California
businessasacalling.org
November 7
New Songs for Worship IV
Dr. Christine Longhurst and others
Canadian Mennonite University
Winnipeg, Man.
www.cmu.ca
November 8
Peace Sunday
Your congregation
MCC Canada
canada.mcc.org/peacesunday
iamrevolting.org
November 8
International Day of Prayer
for the Persecuted Church
Free 2009 resource kit
Persecuted, Not Abandoned
www.idop.ca
November 14
Meetiing MCC 2009
Eden High School
St. Catherines, Ont.
mcc.org/ontario
905-646-3161
519-745-8458
November 20–22
IMPACT: Youth discipleship weekend
Finding Your Identity
Speaker: Kent Martens
Steinbach Bible College
Steinbach, Man.
800-230-8478
www.sbcollege.ca
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
shoulder tapping
Wymark EMC, a country church located 20
miles southeast of Swift Current, Sask., is
accepting applications for lead pastor. We
aim to be a friendly, family-welcoming church
body of 70 to 90 people, and seek a pastor
who can encourage us by word and example
to grow to maturity in Christ. Enquiries can be
directed to the Pastoral Search Committee at
306-773-9089 (leave a message) or funkfarm@
gmail.com (Paul Funk).
La Crete Christian Fellowship, in the
northwest corner of Alberta, is looking for
a full-time youth pastor to be a part of our
pastoral team.
LCCF’s service to God is based on core
values: a commitment to worship, discipleship,
teaching of God’s Word, and reaching our
community and world with the gospel. We are
a vibrant church of about 350 regular attendees
who desire to spread the Word through a
variety of ministries.
The youth pastor will direct the youth
leadership team in implementing our vision
of helping our youth establish and strengthen
their personal connection to Jesus Christ.
Applicants are to be a disciple of Jesus Christ
who is a willing and teachable leader; a person
whose love for the Lord is reflected in their
ability to work well with others.
Contact us for details. Call Mike
Schellenberg at 780-841-9376 or e-mail lccfc@
telus.net.
Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks
a youth worker or couple to develop a
program for youth and junior youth. PFC is a
small church in the village of Pelly, located in
central Sask., close to the Manitoba border.
Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70,
Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306-595-2074. E-mail
[email protected].
Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC),
located in Morris, Man., is looking for a fulltime pastor for a congregation of about 120.
Previous pastoral experience and leadership
abilities are assets. For job description and
information, please call Brian Klassen at 204746-8102.
North Kildonan Mennonite Brethren Church
in Winnipeg, Man., is looking for a children’s
ministry director. The children’s director,
who will focus on visioning and implementing
a Christ-centred children’s program, will be an
integral part of the pastoral leadership team.
The children’s director is a half-time position.
For an applicant who also has a vision for small
groups ministry, consideration will be given
for a full-time position including both ministry
responsibilities. NKMB is a multi-generational
congregation of nearly 600 members with
many young families. Inquiries and resumes
may be sent to: Search Committee, NKMB,
THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009
Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm
1315 Gateway Rd., Winnipeg MB R2G 1P2 or
email: [email protected].
Continental Mission in Thompson,
Man., needs a general director. This is an
executive position. Qualifications for this
position includes ministry experience, and an
ability to lead and challenge missionaries in
various ministries. A knowledge of the Word
and a walk with the Lord are essential.
An evangelical ministry, Continental
Mission (started in the 1940s) is involved in
evangelism, church planting, camping, and
drop-in ministries among First Nations people,
mostly in northern Manitoba. The director
will need to live in Thompson. Experience in
working with Aboriginal people is an asset.
Send your resume to the chairman of the
board: Ruben Goertzen, Box 57, Ashern, MB
R0C 0E0, e-mail [email protected], phone 204768-2455. Or call the interim director, Bill
Penner, at 204-778-8771 for information.
Mennonite Foundation, a donor-advised
charitable foundation (est. 1973) with 17 employees and an operating budget of $1.9 million, seeks an executive director. The director is responsible to the board and will provide
strategic leadership, directing and managing
the overall operation. The candidate must be
a church member in one of MFC’s six supporting conferences.
MFC promotes financial stewardship from
a Christian perspective, creates opportunities
for people to be generous with their financial
resources, provides stewardship education
for churches and members, is committed to
socially responsible investing, and provides
loans to constituent churches and related
charities.
We are a growing and dynamic organization
with over $100 million under management.
The head office is in Winnipeg, Man., with four
other offices across Canada.
MFC offers a competitive salary and
benefits package. Resumes should be
submitted to Personnel Committee, MFC, 121325 Markham Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6;
[email protected].
Rainbow
Christian
School,
in
Vanderhoof, BC, seeks a principal.
RCS is a growing K–8 Christian professional
learning community and has been in
operation for 20 years. It is a classified Group 1
Independent School and currently has a staff of
six and an enrollment of about 80 students.
Applications must include: resume, three
references (including a pastor’s), transcripts,
BCCT certificate, statement of faith, philosophy
of Christian education.
The principal is a full-time position (.6
admin. and .4 teaching).
Send a cover letter, resume, philosophy of
Christian education with statement of faith.
Rainbow
Christian
School
Search
Committee, Box 710, 2994 Burrard Ave.,
Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0; ph: 250-567-3127;
fax: 250-567-3167; e-mail: [email protected].
Gruthal Bergthaler Mennonite Church is
prayerfully seeking a senior pastor who has
a heart for people and is community outreach
minded.
We are an evangelical church located
in Grunthal, Man., 45 minutes southeast of
Winnipeg, and 20 minutes southwest of
Steinbach. The town consists of about 1,000
people and is supported by a strong farming
community. The church is multi-generational,
with a core of middle-aged families, a strong
youth program run by a full-time youth pastor,
and a strong Sunday school program.
We seek a pastor who has the heart of a
shepherd and a desire to see our church grow
through reaching the lost and investing in
the church’s people. He should have strong
preaching and teaching skills. The candidate
must have a Bible college degree. Some
pastoral experience is preferred. He must
be in agreement with our constitution and
statement of faith.
Anyone who possesses these qualifications
and is interested in this position can forward
their resume, along with references, to the
following address: Grunthal Bergthaler
Church, Box 70, Grunthal, MB R0A 0R0, Attn:
Elder Board; or e-mail gbmcleadelder@mts.
net.
Youth For Christ in MacGregor, Man.,
is looking for a director. The job involves
giving overall leadership to YFC ministries
in Macgregor and Gladstone, its staff and its
ministry; vision crafting, ministry development,
staff/volunteer care and development,
community/church relations, fundraising,
evaluation. Contact: [email protected]
for more information.
Fire at Sioux Valley
On Thursday, October 8, 2009, the
building of the Reserve Fellowship
Chapel at Sioux Valley, Man., was
destroyed by fire. The building was
insured and the congregation is
interested in rebuilding or replacing
the facility (likely next spring). If
anyone knows of a church building
available to be moved, or work crews
available to help in construction,
please contact the EM Conference
office. Pray for this small but resilient
congregation.
Ward Pakrinson
15
kids’ corner
Loreena Thiessen
D
Be thankful!
o like to receive gifts? Of
course you do. On special
days, your birthday, Christmas
Day, you expect gifts.
On those days it is the custom to give
and receive gifts. It’s exciting. It’s special.
You remember to say “Thank you!” The giver
expects it. They wait until you say it: “Thank you!”
It’s the right thing to do.
But there are other kinds of gifts. Not all gifts come
wrapped up and appear only on special days. Some gifts
you may not notice at all. You enjoy them but you don’t
realize they are gifts. What are these gifts?
One is good health.
“How is good health a gift?” you ask. “Either I have it,
or I don’t. At times I may have the flu.”
You’re right. And it’s not a choice; you don’t choose
to have the flu. Everyone wants to be healthy and feel
strong, but you can’t choose that either. It is a gift you
have been given.
What about safety? You feel safe when you are in
your home. Your parents protect you. They do this by
providing a warm and sturdy house for your family.
Your house protects you from the cold in winter and
the heat in summer. In it you are safe; no one comes in
unless you let them in. Your home and your parents are
gifts to you to keep you safe.
What about school? Is school a gift?
“I have to go to school,” you say. “How is school a
gift?”
Think about it like this. Many children in the world
who want to learn and study can’t; there is no school for
them, or they can’t go even if there is one.
There may be a fee they can’t pay for books or a
uniform. Some children have to work to make a bit of
money to buy food for the family instead of going to
school. The chance to go to school is a gift not everyone
has.
Can you sing or play the flute well? Are you able to
explain how something works or a math problem to a
friend? Can you cheer someone up if they are sad or
disappointed?
Do you happily take care of your pet? Give him food
and water and take him out if needed? Do you like to
PAGE 16
play with your baby brother or sister when your mother
is busy?
You may think you just like to sing, or help, or explain
a problem, and do it easily. These are abilities you have
been given. And abilities are gifts.
Who has given you these gifts?
“Every good and every perfect gift…comes down
from (God) the Father of lights,” says James 1:17.
By saying “Thank you!” for these you recognize God
as the giver. You remind yourself that God has given you
T
these gifts. M
2
4
An Activity to Sing
Thank you for
sum - mer
fun
and
Thank you for
cool - ing
win - ter’s
Thank you for
friends and
sun - shine
2
4
snow
2
4
fam - i
-
ly
2
4
With whom to share what I
have and
know
THE MESSENGER
Evangelical Mennonite Conference
440 Main Street
Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5
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PAP Registration #9914