Vol. 45 No. 7 April 4, 2007 - Evangelical Mennonite Conference

Messenger
The
EVANGELICAL MENNONITE CONFERENCE
VOLUME 45 NUMBER 7 APRIL 4, 2007
Finding forgiveness
in the
depths
of sorrow
The
Messenger
What does it mean to be Anabaptist?
A
EDITOR
Terry M. Smith
ASSISTANT
EDITOR
Rebecca Buhler
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 Unpublished material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 Street,
Steinbach, Manitoba.
Subscriptions: $12 per year
(Manitoba residents add 7% PST,
total: $12.84). Subscriptions are
voluntary and optional to people
within or outside of the EMC.
Subscriptions are purchased by
the Conference for members and
adherents.
THE MESSENGER is a member of
Meetinghouse and Canadian Church
Press.
Second-class postage paid at
Steinbach, Manitoba.
ISSN #0701-3299
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We acknowledge the financial
support of the Government of Canada,
through the Publications Assistance
Program (PAP), toward our mailing
costs.
Mailing information: Undelivered copies, change of address and
new subscriptions, should be addressed to:
440 Main Street
Steinbach, Manitoba R5G 1Z5
Phone: 204-326-6401
Fax: 204-326-1613
E-mail: [email protected] or
[email protected]
On-line edition available at
www.emconf.ca/Messenger
MESSENGER SCHEDULE:
No. – May 2
(copy due April 20)
2
editorials
seminary professor says:
“The Anabaptist Christian
accepts the Bible as the
authoritative Word of God, the
only rule of faith and practice. He submits
to this authority, and attempts to be true
to Scripture in all matters of his faith and
life.
“Though all evangelical branches of the
Christian church acknowledge the Bible
as God’s Word, it has been in Anabaptist
theology that we find the most consistent
outworking of this principle of submission
to its absolute authority.
“…When it is understood that the
principle of Anabaptist theology is
ultimately to let the Bible be the only
rule for faith and life, then one can see
how Anabaptist Christianity has been
described as ‘Christianity come into its
own.’ In a sense, any form of Christianity
that conforms to the Scripture is
Anabaptist.
“Any failure in either faith or practice
is a failure to be Christian, a failure to be
reformed by the Word. To be Anabaptist
then is to be biblical in the fullest sense of
the word” (emphasis added).
Sound fine? Actually, one word was
switched. The 1973 statement is by
Morton H. Smith, a professor at Reformed
Theological Seminary (reprinted in RTS
Reformed Quarterly, Fall 2006) about
Reformed theology.
Evidently, claims about superior
devotion to Scripture and better insight
do not take us far. So what does it now
T
mean to be an Anabaptist? M
Terry M. Smith
Cautioned and chided
A
Cree social worker cautioned
me. She said, in effect, that many
native people were wary of the
Christian Church because of the
residential school legacy. That awareness
influenced my perception and ministry as
a pastor in northern Saskatchewan.
It’s ironic that an effort designed
partly to assist native children to become
Christians has soured relationships
between many First Nations people and
Whatever the good intended, the
Church has to live down—and
move beyond—its involvement
with the residential school system.
the Christian Church for generations.
Whatever the good intended, the Church
has to live down—and move beyond—its
involvement with the residential school
system.
Some evangelicals are content to leave
the matter to the mainline churches that
were involved. If only it were that simple.
Evangelical workers ministered in
native communities during the time of
the residential school system. Were they
aware of the effects of the system, and did
they express concern? Some evangelical
teachers taught in the schools. Further,
many people see the Church as one body
(a biblical concept), and what hurts the
reputation of one part hurts us all.
At a Canadian Church Press convention
held in Winnipeg, a Catholic leader chided
journalists for failing to explore how the
residential school system was part of a
larger government policy of education for
all children across Canada. He asked us
to dig deeper. Fair enough. It’s a complex
area.
But reminding people of good that
was done doesn’t remove the harm that
was caused. It doesn’t change the task
the Church is to be involved in, one that
we can’t escape by becoming better
ambassadors for Christ in other areas
T
farther away. M
Terry M. Smith
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
faith in action
Monica
Goertzen
What’s Your Style?
O
h dear, another painfully
honest moment. I accuse
myself of being heartless
as I read, and then
save another letter of protest to
some political involvement that is
counter-Christian. I know I won’t
pass it along. I know it won’t be a
way I voice concern. I will pray for
those affected. I will remember, for
a time, but that’s where it ends.
Maybe it stems from warnings
against chain letters. Maybe I fear
putting my name to a cause. Maybe
I’m just not really informed and, if
I would be, it would demand more
of me. One thing I do know, it is just
not a comfortable way for me to get
involved.
On the one hand, it seems so
safe and innocent to send letters
I break up fights on the street when
I notice fists are flying. Oh, I get
involved. I take risks. And sometimes
it makes me very unpopular.
of protest to politicians (at least
in our country). It doesn’t require
relocating or a visa. And sample
letters are often included as a guide
to prod one along. I’m sure it is
helpful. I agree with it theoretically
and I really hope many others
do it, but it just doesn’t get me
moving. Even putting my name
to a circulated paper, supporting
or rejecting something I believe
strongly about, has me hesitate.
I am sure I’m not alone in this
dilemma.
I’m not really heartless, though.
I’m the first one to jump out of
my car and help a fallen senior
trying to cross a slippery street. I
break up teen fights on the street
when I notice fists are flying. Oh,
I get involved. I take risks. And
sometimes it makes me very
unpopular.
So, I suppose my style is more
direct and hands-on. I imagine
Jesus telling me that it’s quite all
right. He understands. He needs
people like me, too.
We must not try to be someone
we’re not. Our unique qualities
should be searched for and
developed. He knows us by name.
What do you do to make a
difference in this world? How do
you show love to your brother or
sister? How do you follow Jesus?
What makes that which is in your
compassionate heart come out and
motivate you to move? You may
have a different style than another,
but at least have some style and do
T
something. M
Monica Goertzen (Steinbach EMC)
is part of the EMC Social Concerns
Committee, which serves under the
Board of Leadership and Outreach.
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
coming events
April 12
Prophets and Profits
U. of M. professor Fred Starke
MEDA, Winnipeg chapter
Bergmann’s on Lombard at noon
Winnipeg, Man.
Cost: $20 (lunch included)
204-487-2328, ext. 228
April 14
Manitoba MDS Spring Banquet
North Kildonan MB Church
Winnipeg, Man.
Tickets: $10
204-261-1274
April 14
Stepping Out of the Boat: Risking
New Approaches to Conflict
a.m. to 4 p.m.
Micah House Catholic Centre for
Social Justice
Winnipeg, Man.
204-452-2227, ext. 227
204-233-811, ext. 226
April 20
SBC Spring Concert
Steinbach Bible College
Steinbach, Man.
204-326-6451
May 7–9
Talking About the Tough Stuff:
Using Dialogue to Deal with
Difficult Issues in the Church
Canadian Mennonite University
Winnipeg, Man.
204-53-3865
www.cmu.ca
May 25–26
All Women’s Day
Speaker: Lisa Harper
Providence College and Seminary
Otterburne, Man.
204-433-7488
June 7
10th annual MEDA golf tournament
St. Boniface Golf Course
Start time: Noon
June 10
Eden Foundation Big Brothers, Big
Sisters 15th Annual Golf Tournament
Winkler Golf Course
Winkler, Man.
866-85-21
www.edenhealth.mb.ca
June 28
Eden Foundation IronMan
Golf Marathon
Winkler Golf Course
866-85-21
www.edenhealth.mb.ca
3
For the Amish
to forgive after
the killing of five
children seems
impossible. But
that’s what we did
22 years ago when
our daughter was
murdered.
Finding forgiveness
in the
depths
of sorrow
Wilma Derksen
4
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
“We will forgive you” was the first
response of the Amish in Nickel Mines,
Pennsylvania, after a gunman killed
five of their children and injured five
others before taking his life October 2,
2006.
The act of killing five innocent
children is unbelievable, but
apparently so is the response of the
Amish. To forgive so quickly after the
violent act seems so flippant, almost
like paying lip service to something
impossible.
A
nd yet, 22 years ago that’s exactly what
my husband Cliff and I did. Two days
after we discovered our daughter had
been murdered, in answer to a reporter
who asked “what about the offender?” Cliff and I
answered, “We will forgive.” And I believe we chose
those words with complete sincerity.
I’ve been asked many times since why we did
that. The question, as I understand it, isn’t about
the merit of forgiveness—a universally accepted
concept of “letting go of bitterness and resentment”
that is widely understood and included in most
world religions. The question is: Why was our
response as Mennonites so instinctive, almost a
knee-jerk reaction to murder?
I can’t speak for the Amish and I certainly
can’t speak for the more diverse and acculturated
Mennonites. But I can try to answer the question
for myself, as a first generation Canadian of a
Mennonite family who 22 years ago, still so young
and still deeply entrenched in the Mennonite
traditional, thought that the first response to
murder should be to forgive.
At the time I probably would have answered that
it was because forgiveness is taught in the Bible. But
in hindsight, I know it’s more than that. There are
many sincere, Bible-believing Christians who would
not choose forgiveness as an immediate response,
but rather as a conclusion to a long process of
healing. I believe that the answer to the question
lies in our history, our story of origin.
Mennonites were a people born in a violent
time. As nonconformists in the 16th century, our
founding fathers chose to defy the powerful
Catholic Church and subsequently 800 of a fairly
small group of people were martyred, or in today’s
terms, murdered for their faith. For various reasons,
this violence continued to target Mennonites over
the next four centuries as they developed into a
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
distinctive people hood moving from one country
to another. These stories of violence are not that far
removed. I remember my own grandmother crying
for her sister who was murdered in the Russian
revolution.
As a people they must have learned very early
that murder, like an earthquake, has an aftershock
that can be as catastrophic in nature as the first act
of violence. These days we would recognize that
aftershock as a kind of post crime syndrome or the
better known, post traumatic stress disorder, an
insidious emotional condition that has the ability
to rob people of their souls and turn them into the
living dead.
I think the Mennonites encountered this
aftershock back in the 1600s and simply adapted
to their environment. Being a very small group
of people, underdogs
really, they were forced
to flee, escape, and let
go. Since they didn’t
have the capacity
to fight back or the
resources to build a
fortress, I think that
those who survived
learned that “letting
go” was a good counterintuitive, coping skill
and that not fighting
back somehow allowed
them to survive in a very
hostile environment and
get on with life, even
flourish.
This experience
would have underlined
Two days after we discovered our daughter had
been murdered, in answer to a reporter who
asked “what about the offender?” Cliff and I
answered, “We will forgive.”
their understanding of the Bible that whether
one is taking a stand or sacrificing one’s rights,
the attitude of letting go of malice is the first step
in resolving conflict and finding peace. Whether
the Mennonites have achieved this all the time is
another interesting part of our history.
They also must have learned that it needed to be
done quickly. When the aftershock of an earthquake
develops into a tsunami there isn’t much time
to deliberate so they developed an emergency
response, a reflex action to violence. This response
eventually became a teaching passed down through
the generations, which would explain why both
5
forgiveness
The Mennonite reflex to forgive needs
to be understood in this context, that it
is not a stand-alone, one-time act, but a
state of being, an attitude of patience,
generosity and love needed to continue
to work out justice.
my husband and I were innately
familiar with the aftershock when our
daughter was murdered, anticipated it,
and instinctively felt the need to climb onto
higher ground to prepare for it. But even as we
chose forgiveness we were under no illusions that
journey was over.
F
or Mennonites, forgiveness is a powerful
concept not to be handled lightly. Constantly
under attack, they developed a strong sense
of communal living with church at the very
centre. In this context they worked out a theology
and practice around forgiveness that was exercised
not only in violent crimes but in the day to day
administration of justice in their communities. This
was accompanied by a highly disciplined life style
based on a philosophy of hard work, simple living,
honesty and humility.
The Mennonite reflex to forgive needs to be
understood in this context, that it is not a standalone, one-time act, but a state of being, an attitude
of patience, generosity and love needed to continue
to work out justice. Most important was to continue
to live without succumbing to bitterness and hatred.
For Cliff and I there were some very real
disadvantages in coming out with a statement about
wanting to forgive so early in our grief, mainly the
misunderstandings around our stance. Some folks
feared that we were forgiving too early and that we
might stifle the natural process of grief.
Others thought that we were making a judgment
on anyone who expressed anger or that we were
being dismissive of any justice-making processes.
Still others assumed that our response was made out
of weakness, that it was less than sincere, that we
were definitely in denial. Some even accused us of
not loving our daughter enough to demand justice.
But there were also many advantages. Our
statement of forgiveness served almost as a mission
statement throughout the grieving process. It gave
us a destination. It informed those who wanted to
support us of where we intended to go and became
6
a rallying point for those who were struggling
with the same issues. It helped us to re-engage in
life quickly at a time when we didn’t have much
time to lose. We had two other small children who
needed our attention and love; we didn’t have time
or energy for hate. It also allowed us to move the
aftershock of violence from the woundedness of
our hearts to the saner and safer places in our
mind, which are more capable of understanding the
complexities of the issues.
But, even as I write this, I know that after 22 years
into the journey, it still isn’t over. So for us, as a
family, we will continue to resonate with the Amish
T
statement, “We will forgive you.” M
Wilma Derksen is the director
of Victims’ Voice, a Mennonite
Central Committee Canada
program, and author of Have
You Seen Candace? (1985)
and Confronting the Horror:
The Aftermath of Violence
(2003), and co-author of
the study guide Unsettled
Weather: How Do I Forgive?
(2005).
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
with our missionaries
Winnipeg, Man.
My heart comes back to these children
I stood at the door, ushering kids out
from the cold into the warmth of our
centre in Winnipeg’s inner city, reminded
by every face why I’m still here. I first
came to Inner City Youth Alive almost
five years ago, and while it hasn’t been a
straightforward journey for me, my heart
keeps coming back to these children.
“Check out my new haircut,” one boy
pulls off his new gangster bandana and
proudly displays his Mohawk. I grin and
give the thumbs up and make a mental
note to check into that bandana. Is it
just street wear or is he getting involved
in gangs already? He’s ten, so it’s the
perfect age for recruitment.
Getting lost in my thoughts, I’m
surprised by a hand slipping into mine—
it’s a five-year-old girl who’s become
my special friend. She started the year
incredibly shy and I was her first friend,
letting her tag along with me instead of
joining the girls her age. Although she’s
past that now, I always get a little part of
the evening for “just us” as a reminder
that we’re special friends.
I give her hand a squeeze and we look
for the rest of her group who’ll be doing
Bible studies and games together the
rest of the evening. I drop her off and her
leader, a local teen girl, pulls me aside
with a quick, “Hey—remember what we
talked about last week? My friend’s doing
great! Just wanted to say thanks.”
She had come to me worried about
a suicidal friend, and we had prayed
together. I had a chance to talk to her
about what true friendship looks like in
These are the little glimpses
of love, of hope, of a God
who has not forgotten
these children, and of
children who are falling in
love with their Creator.
situations like this. Now, a week later, her
friend was starting to do better, and she
was so relieved she hadn’t been alone
during that time. I say she’s welcome:
That her friend is alive is thanks enough,
and I whisper my praise to God who
orchestrated the healing.
It’s just the opening of Third Floor:
Taking Faith to the Next Level children’s
club, where 40 kids meet with leaders,
both from churches around the city and
local teens wanting to give something
back, and we worship together. It’s a
little rough around the edges—inner city
ministry always will be.
I watch that teen leader, holding the
hand of a little girl on either side of
her. There’s the front row of kids who
are jumping up and down and shouting
praise to Jesus. I see their faces engaging
in the leader’s re-enactment of Jonah
and the whale. I listen in on a small group
as they practice a memory verse. These
are the little glimpses of love, of hope,
of a God who has not forgotten these
children, and of children who are falling
in love with their Creator.
Kirsten Kroeker
Kirsten Kroeker works with Inner City Youth
Alive in the North End of Winnipeg, Man.
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
Mexico
Learning in order to serve
In January of 2006, I arrived at Rio
Grande Bible Institute to begin serious
study towards learning the Spanish
language, and preparation for future
ministry with believers in Juarez,
Mexico. This will be with the church that
was formerly shepherded by Jake and
Bertha Kroeker.
After the death of my husband
George, there was a large empty place
in my heart and life. I needed purpose,
hope and usefulness. I had a great sense
of peace in pursuing this direction in
my life. Confirmation also came through
the Word, other believers and of course
peace along the way as I took steps to
realize my vision.
A greater dream that I have, but
not separated from the church of
Jesus Christ, is to influence the
world for the Lord Jesus Christ
through the power of prayer.
Why I am at RGBI needs little
explanation. If you’re in language school,
you are a student. I’ve been a student
in the school of life for some time now,
and the older I get the more I enjoy the
adventure. RGBI is an adventure the like
of which I’ve not had before. For me there
is much more to learn than Spanish. Wise
words from Proverbs: “Whoever loves
discipline loves knowledge.” And if you
want to learn you must be willing to be
taught.
A good attitude will take me a long
way to success. For a good attitude I
have to guard my heart, and to guard my
heart I need a good meal from the Word
daily, and prayer. “You have not because
you ask not,” so says the book of James.
“With prayer and thanksgiving let your
requests be made known to God.”
I need wisdom, strength, discipline,
and joy in learning from my mistakes;
patience in rubbing shoulders with
frustrated students in the same struggle.
Keeping in mind “that my God will
supply all I need,” including the Spanish
language for what He is calling me to do
upon completion.
I look forward to the next adventure
after language school. Moving directly to
Juarez will give me opportunity to put to
practice what I have learned, cementing it
in my mind. Details for coming alongside
to be useful have yet to be worked out,
but prayer and encouragement are
always in need whenever the work of the
Lord is to prosper. That will be a starting
point.
A greater dream that I have, but not
separated from the church of Jesus
Christ, is to influence the world for the
Lord Jesus Christ through the power
of prayer, both in the closet and in
concert with other believers. The Word
of God combined with prayer is the most
powerful force in the universe. I want to
take advantage of the privilege.
I would like to thank the many within
the EM Conference for their prayer support during the past number of years. Your
prayers have a great impact on my life.
Elma Janzen
Elma Janzen (La Crete) was formerly
involved in guest house hostess ministry in
El Paso, Texas, and is currently preparing
for service in Mexico.
Seminar Leaders and Topics
As a discipleship weekend, one of
the key components is to incorporate
many opportunities for training and
equipping. Our seminar leaders are
gifted men and women who are
passionate about challenging this
generation towards maturity in Christ.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will use these
teaching times to challenge the students to take the next step in their Christian
walk!
Glenn Loewen (Portage) – Warriors For Jesus In These Last Days
Amos Fehr (Rosenort) – Being Guided By The Holy Spirit
Ernie Koop (Steinbach EFC) – Me, Anointed For Mission?
Jason Dueck (Prairie Grove) – Entertain Me!
Fiona Thiessen (Many Rooms) – Sex: Does It Make Any Difference? (Girls Only)
Chris Reimer (Blumenort) – Purity: The Battle Rages (Guys Only)
Val Barkman and Rachel Davis (Anola) – Crisis Intervention
Reaching Your Neighbour For Christ
Dale Friesen (Convention Speaker) – Youth Leaders’ Seminar
8
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
with our churches
Belief, baptism, and BOB
Landmark, Man.: Deeper life meetings
were held in our church on March 13,
2007. Our guest speaker for this series
was John Paetkau, who is a missionary
with Send International. John and his
wife and children are currently on their
second home service and residing in
southern Alberta. He has been a minister
in Ukraine since 1997.
Our meetings revolved around the
topic What you believe… affects what
I think (Colossians 1), affects what I do
(Colossians 2), and reflects what I truly
believe (Colossians 3).
John gave his first message in our
Sunday morning service where he spoke
of Jesus Christ, No One Like Him. He then
continued to build on this foundation as
Christ Supreme, and showed us from there
that the root firmly established supports
and nourishes the tree. During the last
two meetings, his focus was on what
kind of fruit that root would eventually
produce on the tree.
We were also encouraged by the fruit
that was produced in the lives of Irene
Bergen and Tina Barkman who shared
their testimonies regarding God’s
faithfulness in the circumstances of their
life’s journeys.
We witnessed their death
and resurrection with
Christ and as a united
body we will also witness
them grow as members
of our local fellowship.
March 4, 2007, was the day that the ice
melted away and five faithful believers
took the plunge into the cold waters of
death by baptism then revived to life with
Christ through faith in God (Colossians
2:12–15). For some the ice represented
fear, for others it represented unbelief,
lack of commitment or lack of desire,
yet some had no fear and would take the
plunge as the next obedient step in being
identified with Jesus Christ.
We all witnessed their death and
resurrection with Christ and as a united
body we will also witness them grow
as members of our local fellowship.
The faithful five are Caleb Funk, Chris
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
Baptized on March 4: Caleb Funk, Chris Klassen, Tony Klassen, Carleen Plett and
Brian White.
Klassen, Tony Klassen, Carleen Plett,
and Brian White.
Who will go? Bob will go! Who is
Bob? BOB is a Band of Brothers from the
Landmark and surrounding area who
have learned a new language: Love in
Action with a Canadian accent. BOB
heard the call from MDS, then banded
together to help rebuild the lives of the
residents of Pass Christian, Mississippi,
which was devastated by Hurricane
Katrina on August 29, 2005.
Mark Hildebrand and Murray Plett
recounted their experiences for us during
our deeper life meetings.
Mark explained just
how devastating the
hurricane was in Pass
Christian.
He
said,
“Ninety percent of the
town’s homes were
damaged or destroyed
and the town used to
have a population of
6,500, but now only 25
percent remain.”
Brigitte Toews
John Paetkau
BOB: (back) Alf Frischbutter, Murray Plett, Mark Hildebrand, Kelly Chester, Rick Plett, Don Hamm, Murray
Klassen, Tim Kroeker, (front) Jake Friesen, Randy Dyck, John Nikkel, Lyndon Berg, Andrew Sawatsky, Al
Toews, Duane Froese
Thanks, baptism, and youth
Blumenort, Man.: I want to start this
letter on a personal level. I want to
apologize for not having written sooner.
I have been battling cancer for most of
2006. I received word on February 7,
2007, that my tumor has shrunk again. I
want to publicly thank God and each one
of you who has been praying for me and
my family over the last year. We really
appreciate your prayers and words of
encouragement.
On Sunday, November 26, 2006,
the church was filled with friends and
relatives to witness the baptism of six
young people. Heather Loewen, Caleb
Thiessen, Samantha Maendel, Paul
Barkman, Stephanie Friesen, and Michelle
Penner have chosen to make their faith
public through baptism. Let’s remember
to pray for these young people.
Families of the
Week allows us as a
congregation to pray
for our membership
as individuals and
not just as a whole. I
would like to encourage
everyone to take this
opportunity to pray for
our families each week.
November 26, 2007, baptism: (back) Susan and Pastor Anthony Reimer, Caleb Thiessen and Paul Barkman,
(front) Stephanie Friesen, Heather Loewen, Michelle Penner, and Samantha Maendel.
The youth took over the entire
worship service on January 28. They
did it all, from the design of the bulletin
cover by Katherine Driedger to the
ushering, special music, and children’s
feature. The message was preached
by our Youth Pastor, Chris Reimer. If
this wasn’t enough, they even served a
Soup and Bread Lunch after the morning
service.
There have been a few changes in
the bulletin lately. One change that I
really appreciate is that we have added a
section called Families of the Week. This
allows us as a congregation to pray for
our membership as individuals and not
just as a whole. I would like to encourage
everyone to take this opportunity to pray
for our families each week.
On February 9 and 11 the Caring Team
presented A Marriage and Family Weekend
to Remember with John and Anne Neufeld
of Steinbach. Tim and Carmella Toews
were the youngest couple present,
having been married exactly two weeks.
There was a couple there who had been
married for over 50 years (I’m sorry, I
can’t remember your names). The rest
of us were somewhere in the middle. On
Sunday the sessions were open to all.
They were well attended.
We welcome Eric and Anne Teichroeb
as well as Bruno and Audrey Kampen
who were installed as our newest deacon
couples on February 18. It’s always good
to see people who are willing to be used
by God for the good of the church.
The winter is going to be over soon.
It’s time to start thinking about how you
could be involved in camp this summer.
The Lord could use you.
Martin Penner
In the evening of January 14 Blumenort
church participated in the EMC Day of
Prayer for Missions. We prayed for about
10 missionaries or missionary families.
Our missionaries have a tough job to do,
and they do appreciate our prayers.
weddings
VENTIMIGLIA – THIESSEN: Dave Ventimiglia
and Cory Beth Thiessen were married on
October 13, 2006.
DOERKSEN – WIEBE: Jordan, son of Jake and
Anne Doerksen of La Crete, Alta., and Valean,
daughter of Jim and Susie Wieler of La Crete,
were married on August 26, 2006 at La Crete
with Peter Janzen of La Crete officiating. The
couple lives in La Crete.
PETERS – GOERTZEN: Byron, son of Joe and
Verna Peters of Buffalo Head Prairie, Alta.,
and Ashley, daughter of Peter and Margaret
Goertzen of La Crete, Alta., were married on
August 5, 2006 at La Crete with Peter Janzen
of La Crete officiating. The couple lives in St.
Albert, Alta.
10
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
Pastor Darcy Sproule is ordained
High Level, Alta: Spring is just around
the corner! How exciting this is as it has
been somewhat of a long winter for some
people, with many cloudy, snowy days.
God’s power was revealed again with the
temperature changing from -27C to +9C in
24 hours. It’s so good to see and feel the
warmth of the sun again.
We are excited and blessed to have our
pastor confirmed by ordination for our
church. Conference Pastor David Thiessen
blessed the congregation with a message
and ordination service for Pastor Darcy
Sproule on February 25, 2007. God is so
good! It seems like only a couple of months
ago when the Sproules arrived in High
Level to start as interim pastoral couple
for the High Level Christian Fellowship
Church, when in actuality it has been 15
months since their arrival. This is a good
sign and we hope the time has seemed
short for them also. We are overjoyed with
their decision to stay and lead the flock.
May God bless them for their willingness
to serve Him way up north!
Pastor David Thiessen ordains the Sproules.
God is never forceful,
but offers us the free gift
of salvation and a life
walking alongside Him.
Pastor Thiessen shared a message
based on Matthew 3:13–17, 4:1–25,
affirming the love the Lord has for His
children. God loves us and is pleased with
us, regardless of our performance. Satan
comes to tempt us to follow him and not
God. There are high points and low points
in our walk. We may be tempted to think
God’s blessings have been withdrawn
from us when we’re in our low point, but
He always has our best in mind.
He is never forceful, as love is never
forceful, but offers us the free gift of
salvation and a life walking alongside Him.
This offer is for everyone, but it is up to
each individual to accept it. He stressed
the importance of pastors to share with
and build up others, not keeping to
themselves. Christians need always to
keep in mind that their identity is first of
all in Christ.
Our church is in the planning stages of
building at a new location. The land has
been paid for and we are now awaiting
final paperwork and signatures. Praise
God! Now the serious, hard work starts.
We hope for many willing and able-bodied
people to share their gifts and talents as
God leads them.
Margaret Brock
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
Church elders pray over the newly-ordained pastoral couple.
births
JACK – to Richard and Lorraine Jack of
La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Kristalee, on
September 13, 2005.
FRIESEN – to Ed and Linda Friesen of La Crete,
Alta., a son, Wyatt Rodney, on November 8,
2005.
FRIESEN – to Willie and Jacquie Friesen of La
Crete, Alta., an adopted daughter, on October
9, 2006.
BUHLER – to Norman and Melanie Buhler of
La Crete, Alta., a daughter, Stacey Avery, on
October 20, 2006.
WOLFE – to Kevin and Lisa Wolfe of La
Crete, Alta., a daughter, Kimberly Suanne, on
November 18, 2006.
PLETT – to Ryan and Heather Plett of
Rosenort, Man., a son, James Kennedy, on
November 21, 2006.
FEHR – to Andrew and Sandy Fehr of La Crete,
Alta., a daughter, Kalli LaRoe, on November
29, 2006.
PENNER – to Neil and Sheryl Penner of
Winnipeg, Man., a son, Ethan Daniel, on
December 13, 2006.
CONNELL – to Rob and Nora Connell of La
Crete, Alta., a son, Robert Zachery Alexander,
on December 28, 2006.
FREEMAN – to Tim and Kathleen Freeman of
Killarney, Man., a son, Ezra Frank, on January
12, 2007.
JANZEN – to Simon and Joanne Janzen of La
Crete, Alta., a son, Noah Javaan, on January
21, 2007.
WOLFE – to Jason and Jennifer Wolfe of
Winnipeg, Man., a daughter, Annalynne Marie,
on January 25, 2007.
LOEWEN – to Frank and Leah Loewen of
Grande Prairie, Alta., a daughter, Yanida
Helena, on February 10, 2007.
BOURGEOIS – to Paul and Lyndsey Bourgeois
of Roseisle, Man., a daughter, Kassidy Leigh,
on February 20, 2007.
PENNER – Allister and Rachael Penner
of Winnipeg, Man., a son, Adrian Lee, on
February 25, 2007.
11
Being the family of faith
we have in our fellowship. What does
Grande Prairie, Alta.: These past
it matter that children have a hard
few months seem to have flown
time sitting through the service, or
by. Mission Heights Community
that Dad or Mom is pacing in the
Church started our new “season” in
foyer with a teething baby?
September 2006 with a potluck lunch.
These little bundles of energy
This, of course, was well attended.
are the future of our church. They
Where you have Mennonites that
need to see and feel our love for the
gather you generally have plenty of
Lord before we can expect them
delicious food. This event was no
to understand that their need for
exception.
the Saviour—now in the infant and
We currently have five cell groups
toddler years as well as in the teen
running, each studying a different
and mature years.
topic. Our ladies bible study has two
We are a family, families grow
groups in progress. Elvira Wiebe is
together and are there to love,
leading the study group Renewed
Children in Kids’ Club make a mummy out of toilet tissue.
acknowledge and support each
Women, and Jennifer Schroeder is
other in our times of need, growth,
leading her group Mom’s Time Out in
Bible, and running back and forth from
grief
and celebration. Our prayer is that
the study Captivating by Stasi Eldredge.
Auntie Helen. I would wonder is attending
Christ will be the centre of our lives and
Our College and Career and youth church really worth it?
groups are well attended. We are also
My heart always knew that if we didn’t that, in turn, our lives will demonstrate
running an after school Kids’ Club on show our children that church is part of the likeness of His character.
Ruby Fehr
Thursday for an hour and a half. This is our life, who would? It makes my heart
for kids from the ages of five to 13. This smile when I see how many small children
time with the young folk is spent playing
games, Bible study, and, of course, a
snack. Christina Wilt spends a lot of time
with these energetic children.
The Christmas season saw us involved Mount Salem, Ont.: It’s been a busy time church music celebration night. It’s great
in planning the adult banquet, youth at Mount Salem. We have enjoyed many to listen to the musical talents of three
banquet, College and Career banquet, and blessings as the months have flown by.
churches that come together in one
the Sunday School Christmas program.
In September 2006 the men went to place.
The theme that our Youth had this year for Algonquin Park for their annual weekend
Lynita Froese and Josie Loewen put a
their banquet was Formal—Value Village retreat. They were richly blessed and lot of hard work and talent into putting
Style. Our New Year’s Eve celebration inspired by speaker Abe Loewen. The together a musical called The Bethlehem
took place at the Grande Prairie Christian women had their first ever weekend Project for our Sunday School program.
School. We played games from 6:30 until retreat in November. Many came to learn Children enjoyed being able to act and
9 p.m. We then dispersed to our own about time management from speaker sing the Christmas story. Great job!
activities.
On February 17, 2007, we had a
Tina Wiebe.
Getting back into a regular schedule
We are growing and therefore needed Valentine’s Day Dinner. The food was
after the New Year was relaxing! We had
more deacon couples to meet our needs. wonderful! Speakers Peppy and Teresa
a baptism on January 21, 2007. Uriah
Four couples were elected and willing to Cornacchione challenged us to break
Steeves was baptized in our church
serve. We are looking forward to serving down walls and break free of the things
by immersion, and along with his wife
that hinder our relationship with Jesus
with you. May God bless you!
Norma was accepted into membership. It
Christmas brought its own joys amid Christ.
is always so exciting to witness a believer
Maria Dyck
the busyness. We had our annual interwho takes the step of publicly announcing
their intent of following Christ.
On March 4, MCC was here for a
fundraiser. We enjoyed an evening
featuring the vocal stylings of Helen
Teichroeb, Peter Teichroeb, and Kim
Thiessen. At our recent congregational
meeting it was again made evident that
our congregation appreciates the feeling
of “family” when we get together for our
Sunday morning worship service.
As a mother, this is so encouraging!
I have four children that are close in
age and I remember that getting small
children ready for church on Sunday
seems to often turn into an ordeal—not
to mention the frequent trips to go potty,
New deacon couples at Mount Salem: Isaak and Margaret Banman, Peter and Mary Froese, Joe and
falling off the pew, drawing in Mom’s
Retreats and advances
Netti Wall, and Ed and Sara Loewen.
12
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
MCC blanket project comforts women in prison
Every Tuesday afternoon four women
incarcerated at Grand Valley Institution
for Women here in Kitchener, Ont., make
blankets for MCC humanitarian aid
shipments.
Krista, a mother of three children,
age four to 11, has been involved in the
program since it started in March 2006.
“I’m here (in prison) because I took a
life,” said Krista. “I joined the program
so that I can give something back to the
world and to be at peace with myself. It
brings tears to my eyes and goose bumps
to be able to give something back to the
world.”
Working with the women are 14
volunteers recruited and trained by MCC
Ontario to develop trusting relationships
with women who are serving sentences
of two years or more in this federal
institution.
Just like women making blankets in
church basements they talk about the
ordinary things in life—their families,
favorite food, hobbies and skills.
Getting to know women serving time
in prison is also changing the lives of
volunteers. Anna Mary Brubacher, a
volunteer who has been involved with
the program since it started, said at first
she was apprehensive about going into a
prison.
“But the first time you meet the women,
you realize they are just like us—they are
CORNELIUS DUECK
1920–2007
Cornelius Friesen Dueck was born at
the family homestead in Rosenort, Man., as
one of 12 siblings; attended the local school
for eight years; was baptized at age 19;
and was married to his sweetheart Annie
Zacharias who came to work in the homes
of his older sisters. In their marriage of 65
years they had six children who with their
spouses gave them 16 grandchildren and
12 great-grandchildren.
This man, known by most as Cornie,
was a man of principle, purpose, passion,
and prayer. He was a farmer for the first 25
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
mothers, sisters and daughters,” she said.
“They care about their children. They are
women who have made bad choices.”
The program, a partnership between
the correctional facility and MCC Ontario’s
material resources and restorative
justice departments, became a reality in
March 2006. The program also receives
community support from individuals and
businesses through donations of fabric
and sewing machines.
Women can remain in the program
indefinitely. In the first 10 months, about
10 women participated in the program
and completed about 40 blankets. In
December 2006, the program expanded
to two afternoons a week and moved to a
larger space that can accommodate more
women.
The Grand Valley Institution for
Women is one of six Canadian correctional
institutions for federally sentenced
women. This employment program is
available to women requiring minimum
and medium security.
Gladys Terichow, MCCO
MCC Ontario volunteer Laura Nafziger and Krista
years of their married life. He was creative
and worked hard in providing for his family.
He loved his family dearly and desired that
they all walk with God. He was active in
the community and was the president of
the Rosenort Credit Union for three years.
He was competitive by nature and loved
having a good board game or playing golf.
Whether in the Rosenort area, outlying
communities, or later when they went into
full-time ministry for 25 years, he was
very involved with the life of the church,
whether in teaching Sunday School or
serving on the Mission Committee. Dad
attended Steinbach Bible College at age 46.
He was ordained as a minister and served
as a pastor and church planter with EMC
Board of Missions in Kamsack and Pelly
(Sask.), Aylmer (Ont.), and Lowe Farm
(Man).
At age 64 Dad took a chaplaincy course
and enjoyed ministering to the elderly and
sick in the Rosenort Eventide Home, Morris
Hospital, and Carman Personal Care Home.
In 1996, Mom and Dad moved to Steinbach
to enjoy their retirement years.
Our Dad had a very special relationship
with God. He dared to live differently than
(photo by Joanie Peters)
the status quo. His love for God was lived
out with passion and purpose. He is relieved
of Alzheimer’s and its slow way of stealing
a loved one. On March 10 he celebrated
his 87th birthday in heaven and now stands
before God his Creator, Saviour, and Lord
in celebration and victory.
Dad passed away at Bethesda Place in
Steinbach on Friday, March 9, 2007, at the
age of 86 years.
He is survived by his wife of over 65
years, Annie; his six children and their
families: Adeline (Don Warkentin) of Swan
River, Man.; Mary (Stan Klassen) of Regina,
Sask.; Elvira (Elmer Warkentin) of Chiang
Mai, Thailand; Barry (Barb) of Barbados; Al
(Arlene) of Winnipeg, Man.; and Jeannette
(Elmer Thiessen of Winnipeg. Grandpa was
dearly loved by his 16 grandchildren and
12 great-grandchildren. He is survived by
two brothers, Henry and Dave, and many
nieces and nephews and their families.
The funeral service was held at the
Evangelical Mennonite Church in Steinbach
on Monday, March 12, with interment at
Heritage Cemetery. Arrangements were by
Birchwood Funeral Chapel.
His Family
13
GEORGE A. REMPEL
1922–2007
George A. Rempel, age 84, of Swift
Current, Sask., passed away on Tuesday,
January 30, 2007, at the Cypress Regional
Hospital. He was born to Bernard and
Maria Rempel on July 9, 1922, in the village
of Rhineland, Sask. George attended
school in Hamburg and was known for his
athletic skills, especially as a ball player
and he played in many tournaments.
George married his first wife, Mary
Wiebe, on July 29, 1945. They lived in
Rhineland and had a family of one girl
and two boys. In 1976 they moved to Swift
Current. He retired in 1987 and had more
time to watch sports on TV, especially
baseball. Sadly, Mary passed away in May
1991.
SUSANNA (SUSIE) FRIESEN
1918–2007
Susie was born on January 5, 1918, in
Rosenort, Man. She was the third of 14
children born to Katherine and Henry D.
Brandt.
Susie attended school at the Greenbank
School. She had to quit school early
because of the heavy workload at home.
She also worked as a maid at several
different homes in the area, doing inside
work as well as milking the cows. At the age
of 18 she was baptized upon confession of
her faith in Christ and became a member
of the Rosenort Kleine Gemeinde Church.
Susie met the love of her life, Jac Friesen,
a shy young man who felt unworthy of her.
She thought the time was right one moonlit
14
On January 22, 1995, George married
Mary Wolfe. They lived in Wymark for a
while and then moved to Swift Current.
They enjoyed bowling, yard work, and
they did some traveling. One of their trips
took them to the Northwest Territories,
and they also traveled to Manitoba to
visit family. Last April 2006 they went on a
bus tour, enjoying the scenery in B.C. and
Victoria.
The Lord took him home after a brief
and courageous battle with cancer.
Surviving are his wife Mary, and
children: Elaine (Pete) Dyck, Alvin (Edna)
Rempel, and Tim (Maureen) Rempel. His
grandchildren are Bonnie (Mark) Sullivan,
Marlon (Amanda) Dyck, Tracy (Blair)
Philp, Steve Rempel, Greg (Amber) Rempel,
Keegan, Haleigh, and Jordan Rempel. His
great-grandchildren are Donovan, Kelsi
and Mark Sullivan, Keeton and Haydon
Dyck, Zander and Hollyn Rempel. Also
surviving are step-children Eileen (John)
Koethler, Ray Wolfe, Alan (Pat) Wolfe, Tim
Wolfe, Janet (Ernest) Fehr, Tony (Rhonda)
Wolfe. Step-grandchildren: Trevor (April)
Koethler, Cory (Dawn) Koethler; Derek
and Tyler Wolfe, Jason, Zacary and
Keegan Wolfe; Donovan and Kaitlyn Fehr,
and Megan and Ashlyn Wolfe. His stepgreat-grandchildren are: Mitchell and
Reese Koethler; Jesse, Jaxon, and Jagger
Koethler; Sara, Emma, and Jayla Wolfe.
Also surviving are sisters Lena Funk,
Katie Dyck, Anna Bartch, and Margaret
Hildebrandt, and a brother, Frank
Rempel.
George was predeceased by brothers
Bernard, David, Peter and John Rempel,
and by sisters Mary Funk and Elizabeth
Funk.
We will miss George, but we know he’s
enjoying his heavenly home. One of his
favourite passages was Psalm 23.
His funeral service was held on
Saturday, February 3, 2007, at Cornerstone
Fellowship Church, Swift Current, with
Pastor Randall Krahn officiating. The
pallbearers were grandsons Steve Rempel,
Greg Rempel, Marlon Dyck, Sheldon Dyck,
Keegan Rempel, and Jordan Rempel.
Interment was at Rosenhof Cemetery,
Rosenhof, Sask. Memorial donations may
be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Cancer is so limited…
It cannot cripple love,
It cannot shatter hope,
It cannot corrode faith,
It cannot kill friendship,
It cannot suppress memories,
It cannot silence courage,
It cannot invade the soul,
It cannot steal eternal life,
It cannot conquer the spirit.
His Family
night, and asked him, “Will you marry
me?” He said “Yes.” They were married on
October 10, 1939, and were married for 67
years and five months.
Mom and Dad settled on the home
place southwest of Rosenort where they
lived until 1977 when they built their new
home on River Road South. In 2005 they
moved to the Rosebay Apartments.
Susie enjoyed all the activities there
as well as visiting with all the other
residents. Wherever she lived she had
a big garden and a beautiful yard. She
especially enjoyed her flowers. Many
people commented on her beautiful
flowerbeds.
Susie loved traveling. They enjoyed
many trips and bus tours, traveling to the
east and west coasts of Canada, the U.S.,
and as far south as Belize.
For most of her life Susie enjoyed good
health, but had a few struggles near the
end. She passed away peacefully at the
Morris General Hospital on March 9, 2007.
Susie is survived by her husband Jacob;
and eight children, Allan and wife Gladys,
Betty and husband Vernon Kroeker, Lorne
and wife Lena, Katie and husband John
Dyck, Ervin and wife Erika, Leroy and wife
Lois, Darlene Krahn, and Jean Harms; 16
grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
Also surviving are two brothers Henry and
Jacob, and six sisters Elizabeth Brandt,
Lena Friesen, Annie Loewen, Tina Rempel,
Justina Giesbrecht, and Elma Kornelson.
She was predeceased by her parents,
her brother Abe, and four siblings in early
childhood, as well as her grandson Leland
Friesen.
The family would like to say a big thank
you to Pastor George Toews for all the
love and encouragement, Dr. Fraser and
the nursing staff at the Morris General
Hospital, and the Home Care staff for the
wonderful care they gave Mom.
In her memory, if friends so desire,
donations may be made towards
the missions work of two of Susie’s
grandsons; Greg and Sherry Dyck as
Urban Missionaries for Riverwood
Church Community, 257 Riverton Avenue,
Winnipeg, MB R2L 0N2; or Lyndon and
Shavat Friesen with Youth With A Mission,
c/o Christian Fellowship Church, Box 10,
Birch River, MB R0L 0E0.
The funeral service was held at the
Rosenort Evangelical Mennonite Church
on Tuesday March 13, 2007. Arrangements
by the Morris Funeral Home.
Her Family
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
shoulder tapping
HILLSIDE CHRISTIAN Fellowship (EMC) is
looking for a part-time youth worker to work
at developing a youth program. HCF is a small,
rural church south of La Crete in northern
Alberta. Applicant needs to be in agreement with
Anabaptist/Mennonite theology.
He will need to be highly flexible, self-motivated,
and able to relate warmly to youth and junior youth.
Music skills would be a definite asset.
It will be a six-month position starting on May
1, 2007, with the possibility of becoming longer
term. For information contact Russell Friesen 780841-1747 or [email protected].
MAF NEEDS elementary, middle school, and
high school teachers for MAF families and other
missionaries serving overseas. If you’re a trained,
experienced educator and willing to be used of
God overseas for a year or more in a life-changing
experience overseas, then this may be just for you.
MAF missionary families give up much to
minister in remote areas. They may fly and
maintain aircraft, create remote communications
networks, or implement powerful distance
education programs. They wonderfully overcome
many barriers and advance the Kingdom of God,
but their children need a quality education.
Check http://www.maf.org/maf-needs-teachers
about requirements and qualifications.
WANTED: LIFEGUARDS and counselors for
Midway Bible Camp, 30 minutes out of Thompson,
Man. Contact Paul Giesbrecht at Continental
Mission [email protected].
ABBEYDALE CHRISTIAN Fellowship in Calgary,
Alta., seeks a full-time young life pastor who is
passionate about ministering to and discipling
youth and young adults. The individual should have
a strong vision in these areas and work with ACF
volunteers in developing and leading programs.
Strong organizational and communication skills
as well as knowledge of current youth issues are
required.
ACF is a medium-sized (180–220) congregation
seeking to disciple members and attendees,
encourage their gifts and involvement, and to
reach out to the neighbourhood and families of
church adherents.
Submit resumes to Young Life Search Committee: Email: [email protected]; fax:
403-273-1467. Closing date: April 30, 2007.
SALEM HOME, an accredited, faith based, 145-bed
personal care home located in Winkler, Man., seeks
a director of resident care services.
The director provides overall leadership and
direction to the resident care services department.
Job description available upon request. Respond by
April 13, 2007, to Sherry Janzen, CEO, Salem Home
Inc., 165-15 Street, Winkler, MB R6W 1T8 204-3254316, 204-325-5442 (fax), [email protected],
www.salemhome.net. Only applicants considered
for interviews will be contacted.
Salem Home also seeks a full-time social
worker (term position). Qualifications: BSW
and registered with MIRSW (or eligible to be),
superior skills in communication and organization,
THE MESSENGER April 4, 2007
mediation/conciliation skills, experience in a health
care setting, works well with an interdisciplinary
team, Low German (an asset), health, appreciation
for Mennonite culture and faith. Position available:
May 2007. Closing date: April 13, 2007. Contact Verla
Driedger, RCS director, [email protected],
same address and phone numbers.
ENDEAVOUR FELLOWSHIP Chapel in east-central
Saskatchewan, with a congregation of about 50, is
currently looking for a pastor. Contact Tom Treen
(Elders’ Chairman) at 306-547-3383 or tdpromise@
sasktel.net.
ISLAND GOSPEL Fellowship, in Burns Lake, BC,
seeks an interim pastor and a permanent pastor.
Burns Lake is a village in the geographic centre of
the province, in the heart of the lakes district.
The village’s population is 2,726, and it serves as
the supply centre for 8,000 people in neighbouring
communities. The congregation, with about 110 in
average attendance, is comprised of people from a
range of cultural and church backgrounds.
Inquiries should be addressed to Johnny Janzen,
chair, pastoral search committee, IGF, Box 145,
Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0.
MORRIS FELLOWSHIP Chapel, a church of 100
members located in the town of Morris, Man., is
looking for a senior pastor. Contact Ernie Siemens
at 204-746-8342 or e-mail [email protected].
FISH CREEK Christian Fellowship (EMC) is
looking for a full-time pastor to begin this summer.
We are a 10-year-old congregation that currently
meets at a university in south Calgary and have
about 40 people attending with great potential for
growth. Our focus is on reaching south Calgary.
Education and experience are flexible. For details
and discussion please contact Dean Buhler, 1452
Lake Sylvan Dr. SE, Calgary, AB T2J 3C8; phone
403-271-5171 or e-mail [email protected].
WINNIPEG MENNONITE Elementary Schools Inc. is
looking for a chief executive officer (CEO). WMES
is an independent Mennonite-based Christian
school with two locations in Winnipeg, educating
students in grades K-8. Although grounded in the
Mennonite-Anabaptist faith, WMES is supported
by a broad-based constituency. Our mission
is to provide quality Christ-centred education,
integrating faith and life within a caring school
community. For details, check our website at
www.wmes.ca.
MENNONITE CENTRAL Committee seeks an
associate executive director. As chief operations
officer for its headquarters in Akron, Pennsylvania,
this person oversees day-to-day operations of
this office and more than 100 staff. Th is senior
management position is directly responsible to the
MCC executive director. Bachelor’s degree required,
advanced degree strongly preferred.
Training
in
business
administration,
management and/or organizational development
preferred. Experience in leadership and
management, preferably in a church-related
agency, is important. Must be able to conceptualize,
THE EMC invites applications for the senior administrative position of General Secretary.
Responsibilities: Serve
as Executive Secretary for
the Board of Missions, General Board, and
Board of Trustees; provide management of
conference finances; coordinate conference
events; provide management role of national
office.
Applicants should have experience and
training in areas of financial management
and missions administration with strong
communication skills.
A job description is available upon
request. Duties to commence September 1,
2007. Please request an application form from
the office at 204-326-6401, fax 204-326-1613,
[email protected]. The application and resume
can be addressed to EMC Moderator Ron
Penner and forwarded to the same addresses
or to 440 Main St., Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5.
organize, implement, supervise and coordinate
organizational administrative functions within
MCC’s structure and vision. Strong communication
skills, interpersonal relationship ability and
analytical skills are needed. For information,
contact Kathy Jackson, human resources director,
[email protected], or at 717-859-1151.
CANADIAN MENNONITE University seeks an
assistant host in our facilities department. If you
have a commitment to the church and the mission
of CMU, like working with people, and love to
multi-task, this may be for you. Needed: Strong
organizational and office skills, an ability and a
willingness to assist in preparing guest rooms and
other custodial duties. Processing of applications
continues until the position is filled. Reply to
Susan Warkentin, director of human resources,
500 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2, or
e-mail, [email protected], www.cmu.ca.
GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP Church (EMMC), a
congregation of about 120 in Steinbach, Man., seeks
a full-time lead pastor confident in preaching,
pastoral care, and visioning. Contact Bill Th iessen at
204-377-4464 or [email protected] for information.
RESERVE FELLOWSHIP Chapel (EMC), located in
Sioux Valley (west-central Man.), seeks a fulltime pastoral couple to serve the church and to
develop long-term relationships with people of
the community.
The smaller 50-year-old congregation is part
of Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, a community that
has a Christian history going back to 1879. The
congregation is located about 45 minutes from
Virden and Brandon.
A strong sense of God’s call and a love for
people are required. Direct inquiries to David
Pashe, 204-730-0409, e-mail: pashed@westman.
wave.ca; or to Len Barkman, 204-326-6401, e-mail:
[email protected].
15
If water’s
A
at the top …?
dirty
Dr. Arley Loewen
fghans say: If water is dirty at the top of the
mountain, what is it like at the bottom? As I
talk with Afghans from different walks of life,
I constantly hear negative and pessimistic
assessments of their own country: “Afghanistan is just
a bunch of crooks and thieves! We will never develop as
a country! From the top to the bottom, we’re all just in it
for ourselves.”
How does one respond to this? Besides all the
development in health, education, literacy, water,
agriculture, and military, there is a tremendous need for
leadership/personnel training “at the top” for leaders,
businessmen, students, professionals, and NGO workers.
I have had increasing opportunities to lecture in
professional circles—at universities (both for professors
and students), medical, business and NGO institutions.
I have developed a leadership course which explores
principles of personal development in both institutional
and private sectors.
It is an amazing opportunity and really challenging
to connect with professionals and future leaders of
this country and discuss relevant issues. These are
civil society values, voluntarism, merit employment
versus nepotism, integrity, building trust, personal
responsibility, handling criticism and conflict, capacity
building, making others successful—using materials,
poetry and illustrations from Middle Eastern cultures. In a lively discussion with future leaders, we debate
the notion of conscience? Is it merely relative, or
is it God-given? When discussing the principle of
responsibility, one issue we talk about is “eye-service”
versus when no one is looking. They come up with an
We discuss civil society values,
voluntarism, merit employment
versus nepotism, integrity,
building trust, personal
responsibility, handling
criticism and conflict, capacity
building, making others
successful—using materials,
poetry and illustrations from
Middle Eastern cultures.
PAGE 16
Afghan proverb: If the conscience is your court, there is no
need for a judge.
The course continues to develop as I interact with so
many different people, hear their stories, objections and
comments.
I also have concerns about this method. I don’t want to
simply teach a course on “manners and etiquette.” This
culture is full of traditional moralistic teaching. It is easy
to give pat answers, and I don’t want that to happen in
this course. Another concern is: How does this influence
people in their relationship with Islam?
This past January, I went to Herat (western
Afghanistan) and held three different seminars. Two were
for Morning Star Development, who runs an Institute for
Leadership Development (ILD). Kurt Mahler, one of their
staff, wrote a report that said in part:
Quoting Persian poets in fluent Farsi, Canadian Dr.
Arley Loewen (speaking with an Afghan law professor)
conducted two seminars on personal and leadership
development. More than 50 academic leaders (abut 20 of
whom were women).
Theology and law professors received him with
warmth and respect. They thanked Dr. Loewen for what
they called his “fresh ideas” on the topics he discussed.
But what made Dr. Loewen’s visit particularly unique
was his command of the Farsi language and culture.
Having spent two decades developing a mature critique
of Persian culture, he described both the deep fault lines
in current cultural habits as well as the redemptive keys
T
that display examples of character development. M
Arley Loewen has a Ph.D. in Persian Studies. He is a
consultant in culture and publishing in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Arley Loewen teaches a class of young businessmen.
THE MESSENGER
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