April 14, 2008 Volume 12 Number 8

Caring for the least of these

inside Plan for a clean world 19 Is he saved? 23 Born to bridge 29 2 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

th Editorial 1 0 anniversary the future than in the past, because of the Responsibility to Protect initiative. Nations of every kind have for too long Overcome evil ignored moral principle if it was in con- flict with what they wanted to do. But, as a church, we need to remember that before we are citizens of Canada or with good another country, we are first citizens of God’s holy nation, “a people belonging to Tim Miller Dyck Editor/Publisher God,” as I Peter 2:9 says. Our Confession of Faith states, “Even at its best, a govern- he international community has group of foundations, that announced ment cannot act completely according been wrestling with the question of the establishment of the International to the justice of God because no nation, Tmoral responsibility when facing Commission on Intervention and State except the church, confesses Christ’s rule atrocity and evil for a long time. Sovereignty. This group was to as its foundation.” What do we do when faced with come up with a new policy for This is why it is not surprising to see hundreds of thousands of dead in the world to consider on how to that, in addition to many admirable state- Rwanda in the mid-1990s and in respond to genocide and ethnic ments, the R2P doctrine turns to violence the Darfur region of Sudan in the cleansing. That policy was the R2P as its final method of bringing about last few years? principle, and it was passed by the change. In any system that does not turn It’s been a real accomplishment Sept. 2005 summit of world lead- to Jesus as its ultimate example—the just to have the question considered as ers at the UN General Assembly and by one who refused violence and harm to seriously as it has been. During the Cold the Security Council in April 2006. others through to his death—those that War years, western governments ignored How our larger society understands have more power will see it as right to kill or supported all kinds of vicious rulers as the moral implications of violence is an others who disagree with them. long as they were on “our side.” important topic for Mennonites to ad- This is one of our particular Mennonite In this issue, we bring you an in-depth dress. Just to agree that everyone has a gifts to the world. Our belief that we will examination from a Mennonite perspec- moral responsibility to respond when the follow Christ in not using violence to get tive on what could become the biggest vulnerable are killed and abused by those our way is so simple, so profound and so change to international law in this area more powerful is a great step forward far-reaching. With this, so many sins of since the prosecution of genocide and towards God’s vision of justice for the the church would have been avoided: no the Universal Declaration of Human powerless. crusades, no killing of Jews or Muslims Rights shortly after the end of the Second Saying that everyone’s life and dignity or Mennonites, no Inquisition. We World War. That change is the idea of is worth protecting—not just the ones cannot accomplish the goals of heaven “Responsibility to Protect” or R2P (see who are white or have oil or mineral using the tools of the world. Romans 12 pages 4-12). After the non-intervention wealth)—lines up with Jesus’ love and tells us, “No, ‘if your enemies are hungry, in Rwanda and the NATO intervention death for the whole world. Stating that feed them; if they are thirsty, give them in Kosovo (which included Canadian there are more important moral prin- something to drink; for by doing this you bombing flights) without a UN Security ciples than not interfering with other will heap burning coals on their heads.’ Do Council authorization, there was a strong governments is in agreement with the not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil push for some kind of international church’s view that it is more important to with good.” agreement on if, when and how genocide obey God’s teachings than human law, if There is much that we can and must should be prevented. the two are in conflict. do to prevent injustice and genocides, It was Canada that stepped forward I’m glad to see these things recog- but more violence will never solve the to address this need. In 2000, it was the nized in secular society, and I hope problems of violence. Canadian government, along with a these principles are more influential in

About the cover: Circulation: Please contact Lisa Jacky toll-free at Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) delegations have recently visited Africa’s 1-800-378-2524 ext. 221 or at [email protected] Great Lakes region to meet with local peacebuilders and explore possibilities for subscriptions and address changes. Subscriptions can also be ordered at our web site. Postmaster: Send returns to head of CPT violence-reduction work in Uganda and eastern Democratic Republic office. ISSN 1480-042X of Congo. See pages 4-12 for our feature interview with CPT’s Gene Stoltzfus We acknowledge the financial assistance of the Government and others on the best way to protect vulnerable populations in this and other of Canada through the Publications Assistance Program toward our mailing costs (PAP Reg. No. 09613, Agreement No. parts of the world. 40063104). Photo: Christian peacemaker teams Head office: 490 Dutton Drive, Unit C5, Waterloo, ON, N2L 6H7 Caring for the least of these 4 Phone: 519-884-3810 Toll-free: 1-800-378-2524 Fax: 519-884-3331 contentsIn this feature interview with four respected Mennonites, manag- Web site: canadianmennonite.org ing editor Ross W. Muir examines the relatively new and certainly Please send all material to be considered for publication to: controversial UN initiative known as the Responsibility to Protect General submission address: [email protected] doctrine, which includes the use of military force—if necessary—to Letters to the Editor: [email protected] protect vulnerable populations whose governments have abandoned Milestones announcements: [email protected] them. Presenting their viewpoints are: Ernie Regehr, Gene Stoltzfus, Calendar announcements: [email protected] Ted Koontz and Pakisa Tshimika. Also, Mennonite historian John Material can also be sent “Attn: Submissions/Letter to the Editor/ Toews looks at the issue of nonviolence in light of the early 20th Milestones/Calendar” by postal mail or fax to our head office. century experiences of Mennonites in Russia. Mission statement: Canadian Mennonite (CM) is a bi-weekly Anabaptist/Mennonite-oriented periodical which seeks to promote Bridging the cultural divide 20 covenantal relationships within the church (Hebrews 10:23-25). It Aboriginal theologian Richard Twiss urges proper provides channels for sharing accurate and fair information, faith profiles, mixture of Christianity and First Nations traditions. inspirational/educational materials, and news and analyses of issues facing Plus, Manitoba correspondent Evelyn Rempel the church. In fulfilling its mission, the primary constituency of CM is the Petkau reviews the status of the province’s people and churches of Mennonite Church Canada and its five related Partnership Circles. area churches. CM also welcomes readers from the broader inter-Men- nonite and inter-church scene. Editorial freedom is expressed through Technology and the gospel 24 seeking and speaking the truth in love and by providing a balance of MC Canada’s Deborah Froese and national correspondent Aaron perspectives in news and commentary. CM will be a vehicle through Epp explore different facets of the communications revolution that are which mutual accountability can be exercised within the community of empowering mission agencies and workers to spread the word and keep believers; the paper also encourages its readers to have open hearts and in touch. minds in the process of discerning God’s will. Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for Steady as she goes 28 he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one Retiring denominational minister Sven Eriksson has been a calming another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the influence for the ‘ship of faith’ known as MC Canada. habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the 35 Day approaching (Hebrews 10:23-25, NRSV). Visual prayers Textile artist Karen Thiessen’s latest collection, Board of Directors (by appointing body): ‘Shadow,’ includes works ‘born out of difficulty.’ MC Canada: Aiden S. Enns, Ed Janzen, John Goossen, Paul Krahn; MC B.C.: Henry Neufeld; MC Alberta: Doris Daley Haysom; MC Regular features: Saskatchewan: Joe Neufeld; MC Manitoba: Al Friesen; MC Eastern For discussion 12 Readers write 13 Milestones 16 Canada: Larry Cornies; Elected by CMPS: Margaret Ewen Peters, Pontius’ Puddle 16 Calendar 36 Classifieds 37 Joanna Reesor-McDowell, Tobi Thiessen Board Chair: Larry Cornies, [email protected], 416-506-0327 Overcome evil with good 2 Tim Miller Dyck Head Office Staff: Tim Miller Dyck, Editor/Publisher, [email protected] Still learning to be a missional church 13 Ross W. Muir, Managing Editor, [email protected] Marv Baergen Barb Draper, Editorial Assistant, [email protected] The new energy crisis 14 Tim R. Dyck, Graphic Designer, [email protected] Lisa Jacky, Circulation/Finance, [email protected] Phil Wagler Advertising: Karen Suderman, [email protected], toll- Finding hope while sleeping in cars 15 free voice mail: 1-800-378-2524 ext. 224, home office: 519-745-4507 Aiden Enns Correspondents: Aaron Epp, National Correspondent, [email protected], Electronic Delivery 204-888-6781 ext. 178; Amy Dueckman, B.C. Correspondent, bc@ All subscribers can get the canadianmennonite.org, 604-854-3735; Donita Wiebe-Neufeld, Alberta complete contents of Canadian Correspondent, [email protected], 780-436-3431; Karin Mennonite delivered free by e-mail Fehderau, Saskatchewan Correspondent, [email protected], or view selected articles online. For 306-933-4209; Evelyn Rempel Petkau, Manitoba Correspondent, mb@ either option, visit our website at canadianmennonite.org, 204-745-2208; Dave Rogalsky, Eastern Canada canadianmennonite.org. The April Correspondent, [email protected], 519-579-7258 28 issue will be posted by April 24. Feature Interview

Caring for c

the least of these / Photo john isaa Four Mennonite responses to the controversial Responsibility to Protect doctrine in the light of Jesus’ teachings N U By Ross W. Muir Managing Editor

t a meeting of the UN General Assembly in 2005, heads of state and government agreed that, in the matter of the “responsibility to protect populations from genocide, war crimes, eth- nic cleansing and crimes against humanity . . . [e]ach individual state has the respon- sibility to protect its populations” from such atrocities. In the event that such states fail in their “respon- sibility to protect” their citizens, it was further agreed that “the international community, through the United Nations, also has the responsibility to use appropriate diplomatic, humanitarian and other peaceful means, in accordance with [the UN Charter] to help protect” Any pacifist Christian who these vulnerable populations. has not struggled deeply However, “should peaceful means be inadequate and national authorities manifestly fail to protect their with the force of the argument populations,” the international leaders declared that that love of neighbour implies they are “prepared to take collective action,” includ- ing armed intervention, to provide the necessary a responsibility to protect— protection. with violence if necessary— The decision was ratified by the UN Security Council in early 2006. is morally obtuse. With the help of members of the Historic Peace (Ted Koontz) Churches, the World Council of Churches (WCC) has been grappling with the concept of various forms of human intervention, including the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine, for many years. The WCC released its own position statement on R2P in 2006. (See sidebar on page 5). In an effort to help our readers understand and re- spond to this relatively new and controversial concept, Canadian Mennonite asked two North American peace activists and a scholar, and an African member of the Mennonite World Conference (MWC) executive for their perspectives on R2P: Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 5

“Each individual State has the responsibility to protect its populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against c humanity. . . . We accept that responsibility and will act in accordance with it. . . .” (Commission report, UN Photo / Photo john isaa N

U World Summit 2005)

• Ernie Regehr is a Canadian Mennonite: What is the rela- economic and human rights measures co-founder and for- tion between R2P and Christian pacifism? designed to prevent social and political mer director of Project Are the concepts in line with one another, disintegration to the point of extreme Ploughshares, an agency at opposite ends of the spectrum, or some- violence. of the Canadian Council of where in the middle? In instances of extreme violence, Churches and supported by Mennonite Ernie Regehr: Protecting the vulner- nation-states said in 2005 that they are Central Committee (MCC). He is a able from violence is clearly a primary “prepared to take collective action” under former commissioner of the WCC concern and objective of Christian Chapter VII of the Charter on a “case-by- Commission on International Affairs and pacifists and the emerging R2P doctrine case basis.” helped draft the WCC position statement is a welcome move by the international Chapter VII authorizes intervention on R2P. community towards better pursuing that and the over-riding of national sovereign- • Gene Stoltzfus is a same objective. The commitment to the ty when international peace and security founding director of use of “peaceful means” is at the core of are threatened, and the R2P doctrine Christian Peacemaker the R2P doctrine. Under Chapter VI of now says that national sovereignty can Teams (CPT), having the UN Charter, international protective also be set aside by force in a country in served from 1988-2004. action is carried out with the consent of which the people are in extreme peril. CPT trains and places violence-reduction the host government to pursue social, The language linked to the resort to force teams in such high-conflict situations as Iraq, the West Bank/Israel, Colombia and various aboriginal communities in World Council of Churches position statement Canada and the U.S. on the Responsibility to Protect doctrine • Ted Koontz is direc- tor of peace and justice The 2006 WCC statement reads in part: studies and professor of “In calling on the international community to come to the aid of vulnerable people ethics and peace studies in extraordinary suffering and peril, the fellowship of churches is not prepared to at Associated Mennonite say that it is never appropriate or never necessary to resort to the use of force for Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Ind.; he was the protection of the vulnerable. . . . also a pastor in Oklahoma in the 1960s “[T]he objective must be the welfare of people, especially those in situations of and executive secretary of the MCC extreme vulnerability and who are utterly abandoned to the whims and prerogatives Peace Section in the 1970s. of their tormentors. . . . • Pakisa Tshimika is as- “The resort to force is first and foremost the result of the failure to prevent what sociate general secretary could have been prevented with appropriate foresight and actions, but having failed, of MWC. A Congolese ex- and having acknowledged such failure, the world needs to do what it can to limit the patriate, he currently lives burden and peril that is experienced by people as a consequence. Just as individuals in Fresno, Calif. In 2005, and communities in stable and affluent societies are able in emergencies to call on his report of a trip back to his home- armed police to come to their aid when they experience unusual or extraordinary land was featured in the Oct. 17 issue of threats of violence, churches recognize that people in much more perilous circum- Canadian Mennonite (“The forgotten stances should have the right to call for and have access to protection.” emergency”). 6 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

is more circumspect than that applied to not help but see the pain and grief in to take coercive—and, in particular, peaceful means, but the principle is clear. their faces. I could also see the sense of military—action against another state for Although the primary obligation is to use frustration because those who were sup- the purpose of protecting people at risk non-military means to protect people, posed to protect them are also among the in that other state?” when peaceful means fail to protect the perpetrators. Christian pacifism, on the other hand, vulnerable it is not acceptable to simply In Kinshasa [the capital city], I heard is defined by Wikipedia as “the theo- abandon them to their tormentors. the same sense of frustration because logical and ethical position that any The responsibility of pacifists is not many political leaders felt that those from form of violence is incompatible with met when they themselves refuse to the international community—who are the Christian faith.” It goes on to state participate in violent acts. A strong and supposed to assist them with mediation that such a view is a minority one, yet compelling stand against violence must and non-military humanitarian interven- it represents a large perspective within also include the commitment to try to tion—are also the nations fuelling the war Historic Peace Churches such as our ensure that vulnerable people are also for economic gains. own Anabaptist family. We draw our protected from the violence of others. Unfortunately, greed for Congolese foundation on our belief that Jesus was a Pacifists should, therefore, welcome natural resources is one of the fac- pacifist. He lived and practised pacifism the international community’s recogni- tors fuelling the war. No one is exempt and he calls his disciples to do the same [T]he R2P doctrine ...acknowledges that the responsibility to protect people in peril does not end when those peaceful means fail. (Ernie Regehr)

tion that it has a collective obligation to from participating in what is going on thing. Therefore, the creation of CPT protect the vulnerable from violence, and in Congo. Anyone using a cell phone is by Ron Sider and other Anabaptists is should be active in holding the inter- contributing indirectly to the misery of that expression of obedience to Christ’s national community to account on that the Congolese people because a high teaching. obligation. percentage of [the mineral] coltan used I believe that at the heart of both of So far, the R2P doctrine is a welcome in cell phones comes from Congo. It is these two approaches is the desire to commitment made in principle, but being taken from Congo through the protect human lives, which Anabaptists Darfur, Somalia and the Democratic neighbouring countries to be sold on the believe to be sacred and created in God’s Republic of Congo, among other places world market, not to mention diamonds, image. If the differences between both of extraordinary horror, still stand as gold, timber, uranium and many other of them seem to be so clear in terms of damning testimony to the fact that the natural resources. their theoretical perspective, I am not international community has yet to find When I asked the question regarding convinced that they are so in practice. either the will or the way to consistently what the women meant by you in helping These approaches are both driven by act on its commitment. them get rid of the monsters, in more economics and the colour of skins. In cases than not, their answer was with- Africa, the intervention by both camps Pakisa Tshimika: I just came back from out hesitation those people in the U.S., usually comes when thousands, or mil- the Democratic Republic of Congo, a Europe, Canada and Kinshasa who are lions, have already died. I believe the two country destroyed by several years of buying the goods that are supporting the approaches tend to meet at the centre of civil wars and invasion by neighbouring conflict in Congo. the spectrum and the relationship is not countries. In meeting with women who So as I reflect on the UN Responsibility as linear as we might think. It might even are the most affected by war and greed, to Protect, and the historical pacifist be circular. I heard over and over, “Please, you help stand and response to Africa of the us get rid of those monsters killing us Anabaptist family, I view both ap- Gene Stoltzfus: R2P sets a new stan- and destroying our future and that of our proaches through those eyes and not just dard for intervention and protection children.” from sitting in my comfortable bed in for civilians when a state cannot, or will Many of what they called monsters are Fresno, Calif. not, protect its people. On the political Congolese and others from neighbouring As far as the relationship between R2P level, this doctrine is intended to provide countries terrorizing women and com- and Christian pacifism is concerned, legitimacy for well-behaved nations to munities, especially in the eastern part of it is first a question of definition. R2P intervene in places like Darfur, Palestine the country. was developed to answer the question, or Zimbabwe, where civil order and hu- As I listened to these women, I could “When, if ever, is it appropriate for states man rights are flagrantly violated. Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 7

At the root of this discussion, though, policies; providing material assistance about recent claims that we have a re- is our understanding about how vio- to deal with hunger, disease, lack of sponsibility to protect people who are lence is overcome. The habits of making shelter, etc.; urging governmental and victims of violence, even genocide. This things come out right by means of armed international bodies to apply pressures is because the R2P doctrine is really the intervention reach back to the found- to stop genocide and create just polit- newest guise under which those seeking a ing of organized warfare in the land of ical processes; intervening CPT-style, Christian justification for shedding blood Iraq 5,000 years ago. In fact, the premier with “grandmothers carrying pies and are hiding. symbol of nationhood and empire is cookies, instead of with soldiers carry- the military. Nations and empires turn ing weapons”; and publicizing the plight CM: Is R2P the thin edge of the wedge for to their soldiers because there is noth- of those who are suffering. The list of giving credence to a Just War theology? ing else available that they think works. possible nonviolent ways to take up our (See “Just what is a Just War?” below.) Governments generally resist change and responsibility to protect is long indeed. If so, what are the ramifications for those think short-term. But breaking our habits But there are good reasons for who hold to a strict pacifism? If not, how of turning to military models for solu- Mennonites and others committed to the are the two distinct? tions requires generations of effort and nonviolent way of Jesus to be sceptical Koontz: Of course, the nonviolent means experiments at all levels. The hope that violence can be held in check and perhaps melted by non-violent Mennonite Reporter archives photo by Allan Siebert means is good news to a lot of people. “Where have you been all these years?” shouted an Afghani activist when I first met him. However, it’s a bothersome nuisance for those who are stuck in old ways. The growth and success of conflict trans- formation initiatives should not surprise us. But it often does. In our weaker mo- ments, all of us are tempted to submit to the superstitions about the effectiveness of violence and the use of force that sur- round us. Christians of all shades might agree that they have a responsibility to pro- tect and minister to the vulnerable. Certainly, an armed international peace force is a better answer than unilateral With the help of an overhead projector and rigorous logic, John Howard Yoder ex- “great power intervention.” Interestingly, plains the presuppositions that underpin the concept of a Just War. Yoder believed though, this R2P doctrine comes at a that the Just War theory does not take seriously the call of Jesus Christ. The photo was time when Mennonite ministries in taken at the 1984 peace seminar at Strawberry Creek Lodge in Alberta. conflict transformation and peacemaking rooted in biblical pacifism enjoy attention Just what is a Just War? worldwide. I regard R2P as a wake-up call According to “Overcoming Violence: WCC statements and actions 1994-2000,” for Mennonites. there are six criteria nation-states must meet in order to enter into what is termed a Just War: Ted Koontz: There can be no doubt that Christians have a responsibility to protect 1. There must be a just cause. neighbours and enemies whose lives are 2. The aims of the war must follow a just intent, such as the pursuit of a just peace. threatened. When it is possible —and 3. War must be a last resort. often it is not practically possible, as we 4. War can be made only by legitimate authority, such as a sovereign government are not God and cannot stop all evil, or competent international body. even all egregious evil—we clearly have a 5. There must be a reasonable prospect of success. responsibility to help such people escape 6. War must honour the principle of discrimination, requiring non-combatant or the dangers they face. civilian immunity, and avoiding massacres, atrocities, looting or wanton violence; We do this through hosting refugees; and violence applied in war must be restrained by the principle of proportionality. advocating changes in immigration 8 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

I mentioned in answering the first ques- War and against pacifism. But it is by no guilty neighbours—or enemies. tion might not work and the violence means a new argument. I cannot make The major challenges to pacifism in the against victims might continue. Violence the case for pacifism against this argu- last century have all had this same under- to stop violence frequently fails also, al- ment here, but Christian pacifist argu- lying shape, although with different guises: though this is seldom noted in arguments ments against accepting a responsibility • World War II: Was there not a moral that favour violence to stop violence. to protect through military interventions responsibility—based on love of neigh- Because nonviolence might not work, on behalf of those suffering great violence bour—to protect through war the in- many Christians advocate a responsibility are just as strong—or just as weak—as nocent victims of Japanese and German to protect, by which they mean sup- they have been from the time of Christ. slaughter? porting intervening military violence to Nothing essential has changed, as a bit of • Revolution: Is there not a responsibil- stop the existing violence. history will show. ity to protect innocent victims of violent Put another way, they argue we have After several centuries during which international and national political/ more than one neighbour and we are Christians were largely pacifist, perspec- economic systems through violence to love them all. But one group of our tives changed after the first “Christian” when other means fail? For example, the neighbours is massacring another group emperor, Constantine. Christian Just ongoing situation in Colombia? of our neighbours. Doesn’t our love of War theory originated with Augustine. • So-called “humanitarian” interventions: the neighbours who are being massacred He argued that he should not fight back Should we not support, or participate in, require us to stop the massacring neigh- if he was personally attacked, but that he military interventions to save Somalis bours, even if this requires us to kill the should fight to protect others if they were from chaos and starvation or Rwandans “bad” neighbours? Failing to do so would with him. It was on the basis of this love from genocide? amount to a perverse moral preference of neighbour that Augustine counselled At the heart of Christian arguments for for the lives of guilty over the lives of the Christian emperors that they had a these and other “just wars” is the notion innocent. responsibility to protect, with violence that love of neighbour implies a respon- This is a powerful argument for Just if necessary, innocent neighbours from sibility to protect, violently if necessary.

situation, some decided to resist. They formed an In defence of armed militia, the Selbstschutz (Self-Defence Unit), whose purpose was to protect, not to fight. Gradually, mothers and sisters though, the Selbstschutz moved from being protectors to engaging in armed conflict. What happened when Russian In considering armed self-defence, Mennonite Mennonites thought they had a church leaders debated the idea. They affirmed the nonresistance principle, but allowed individuals to dis- responsibility to protect themselves agree and follow their own conscience. “A key element of the Mennonite confession of faith was declared By Henry Neufeld Special to Canadian Mennonite optional,” says Toews. In the self-contained and self-governing Mennonite he ultimate test of nonresistance for Mennonites in villages of Ukraine the line between government and TRussia occurred during the Bolshevik Revolution. church was unclear, blurring the interests of church Non-resistance seemed ludicrous to many in the face of and state. “The Mennonites had made a decision— mounting violence, but the armed Mennonite resistance allowing individuals to join the Selbstschutz—and the reflected a bankruptcy in Mennonite peace theology, Mennonite Church is debating its theology of non- according to historian John Toews. resistance when, in fact, it is already compromised,” The Russian government had collapsed, the army Toews says of the situation. disintegrated and was fighting amongst itself, and He does not fully blame the Mennonite pastors, there was no police force—a situation ripe for criminal many of whom lacked theological training. They were gangs and would-be warlords wanting to seize power. influenced by German evangelists, whose preaching In that situation in Ukraine from 1918-20, armed and teaching brought renewal to the soul along with gangs came and took whatever they wanted, mur- overtones of German nationalism. dering and raping in the process, Toews says. Initially, the self-defence idea seemed logical, as A retired history professor (University of Calgary villages were threatened and self-defence was very dif- and Regent College, Vancouver), Toews says that ferent from actual participation in war, and protecting when Mennonites found themselves in that chaotic family and home was a fundamental duty. Mennonites Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 9

Regehr: R2P is not based on Just War the resort to force to protect the vulner- the conditions that oblige international theology. If there is a theology behind able “is not a war to defeat a state, but an action, up to and including the restrained R2P, it is that all people the world over operation to protect populations in that use of force in line with what others have are children of the same Creator and state from being harassed, persecuted or called a “just policing” model. are called to look after one another. The killed.” Not all resort to force is the resort challenge we face is to find the way and Thus, the commission says, “this to war, even when military forces are will to consistently and effectively obey means accepting limitations [on the involved. The ICISS report lists a number that call. Because we often collectively use of force] and demonstrating . . . the of “precautionary principles” that echo fail to effectively use the peaceful means use of restraint.” The commission then Just War criteria in order to condition available to prevent the perpetration says that while such restraint “is a clear the resort to force—namely, right inten- of extreme violence against vulnerable violation of the principles which govern tion, last resort, proportional means, people—in fact, our collective failure is war operations, one has to keep in mind reasonable prospect and right authority, regular and egregious—we cannot avoid that operations to protect are operations although these are not included in the the challenge of figuring out how to other than war.” UN version of R2P. protect people in extreme peril when all The R2P doctrine, as adopted by the The obligation to protect vulnerable prevention has failed. UN, does not elaborate criteria for the re- people—for example, women in Somalia, The R2P doctrine unambiguously calls sort to force, except that the international Darfur or Rwanda, who are subject to for the resort to force when peaceful resort to force to protect the vulnerable systematic and serial rape—is not a slip- means fail, but it does not propose war. is to be reserved for the most extreme pery slope leading to the justification of In fact, the International Commission cases—that is, genocide, war crimes, eth- war. It is the commitment to come to the on Intervention and State Sovereignty nic cleansing and crimes against human- aid of victims of extreme violence even (ICISS), the Canadian-sponsored study ity. The ICISS report refers to these con- when there is no obvious way to do that whose report set out the basic elements ditions as the “just cause threshold”—not effectively and even if it means the col- of the R2P doctrine, specifically said that in relation to a Just War, but in defining lective resort to force.

Mennonite Reporter archives photo

A detachment of armed Mennonite soldiers serving in the Selbstschutz (Self-Defence Unit) of southern Russia during the Bolshevik Revolution in the early part of the last century. They were led by German officers (standing centre). were seduced into fighting with the “White” Russian face of growing violence directed at families, women army against the “Red” Russians. The Red Army and children seemed ludicrous. The position of self- was victorious and consequences began to be felt in defence also reflected a bankrupt theology, so, when Mennonite villages. faced with violent evil to person and property, the The Mennonite foray into militarism came to an historic peace position seemed an abstract principle. ignoble end, Toews reports. Some members of the Toews cautions that 21st century Mennonites self-defence group were tried and executed by a mil- not judge their ancestors too harshly. “Like us, they itary tribunal in Melitopol. Mennonite villages were lacked a theology of the suffering church,” he says. attacked, people massacred and village buildings were For Mennonites in Ukraine, life was comfortable, burned—retaliation for armed Mennonite activity. perhaps too comfortable, he says, drawing parallels Toews says the Mennonites finally did what they with Canadian society today—so they had to learn to should have done all along—they organized a prayer become a suffering church. meeting and prayed for forgiveness. In times of crisis, he says the interests of the state tend to triumph over Henry Neufeld is the MC B.C. representative on the Canadian the church. Mennonite board of directors. Toews notes that Selbstschutz advocates lacked a long-term perspective; to them, non-resistance in the 10 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

PHOTO by jill janzen Even though one might “hold to a strict pacifism,” the responsibility to protect is still present when nonviolent means fail. It is important to recognize that a refusal by governments to act in such instances also produces what might callously be called “collateral damage.” The rejection of the resort to force of any kind and in all circumstances, even when there is a rea- sonable prospect that such intervention would save lives and give some measure of protection to vulnerable people, also has victims. The launch of a weapons exchange program in Walungu, Democratic Tshimika: In February, I asked a woman Republic of Congo, brought out a in eastern Congo what she thought large crowd, including representatives about the UN peacekeepers assisting the the pursuit of just goals. of the country’s military and police Congolese government in launching a “What if Hitler had not been stopped?” forces. The program was initiated major offensive in order to free the re- is the popular question. The what ifs of in part by the non-governmental organization Mama Makeka House gion, keeping in mind that many civilians history surround us. But I ask, “What if of Hope, of which Pakisa Tshimika is will perish in the process. Christians had taken the generic New executive director. “We are already dying now,” she said. Testament teachings of peacemaking “What we want is to preserve our chil- literally and refused to join Hitler’s dren and the future of this region and the armies? What if Christians had refused to the concept of a Just War? If they don’t country.” participate in slavery and the plantation have the right to make such a claim, why I don’t think she was thinking in terms system before the American civil war?” not? of just or unjust. That is a luxury for Christians around the world—with the Tshimika: As a public health profession- many of us who are not being oppressed, exception of some in the U. S.—reflected al, I always believe that prevention is bet- or being killed, on a daily basis. I won- more unity in opposition to the war in ter than cure. There are not many situa- dered from her response if I was not Iraq than Christians may have had in tions that require intervention where one naïve to think that everybody under- many centuries of wars. Some of this would say they were not predictable. The stands the language of pacifism when opposition resulted from serious engage- situations in Somalia, Congo and Rwanda they have chosen not to take arms. The ment with the Bible, some from practical were predictable, but these situations Congolese experience is showing me that local experience with war and violence were just ignored by those who should extreme pacifism does not assist coun- in the last century, and some opposition have assisted in preventing them. tries like Congo or Zimbabwe in dealing arose from a worldwide renaissance of It’s a question of all the parties involved with the issues of violence that destroy interest in the gospel of peace. to recognize that their respective desti- lives. The paradox in our [Anabaptist] This renewed interest is a sign of enor- nies are tied to each other. It is like witness is that we are usually the first mous opportunity to deepen our faith Martin Luther King Jr. suggested when he ones to leave areas of unrest and make in the good news of peace and organize said we must learn to live together or we declarations once in safe places. ourselves to turn back violence in places will all perish like fools. where people are not protected. This is Stoltzfus: A thread of humility helps not the time to negotiate away five cen- Koontz: Yes, we should press govern- as we face the actual conditions in the turies of Mennonite pacifism. ments to “prevent” genocides before field. None of us who name the name of they begin. But no, we should not press Christ have invented the perfect path CM: If nation-states have a responsibility governments to undertake “preemptive to overcoming violence with love. All of to protect the citizens of other countries military strikes.” us who strive to create official or private whose governments can’t—or won’t—pro- initiatives of violence-reduction, at some tect them after hostilities have begun (as Regehr: Any action to protect people point cooperate with armed groups and the WCC espouses), don’t people within of other states that involves military police—sometimes with some success, these countries have a legitimate claim coercion must be carried out collect- often with disappointing results. I have to ask these same nation-states to accept ively on the basis of Security Council yet to meet an armed group, government a “responsibility to prevent” such horrific authorization and according to the UN or otherwise, that doesn’t at some point situations before they begin? If so, don’t Charter. It is not individual states, act- abuse its power or become destructive in such “pre-emptive strikes” come close to ing on their own authority, that have Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 11

the responsibility to protect; rather, the Years later, when I participated in the armed group arrived and were similarly responsibility is that of the international founding of CPT, I regarded this position encouraged to respect the local people. community collectively. to be not only a doctrinal guideline but a I believe our presence may have saved The requirement that collective ac- strategic advantage in the development lives, property and affected the future of tion be authorized by the UN Security of workers and programs. Over the years the community. An armed presence of Council—the right authority criterion— my thinking unfolded from the negative protection may have been less effective in is both a safeguard and a major problem. stance of not killing to more Christ- this situation. Additionally, in the long- The fact that all five permanent members inspired experiments in nonviolence. term an unarmed presence creates space of the Security Council must agree before Despite occasional periods of isolation for people to make decisions about their an intervention has the authority of the and capitulation to violence, I now regard own lives, whereas an armed presence council helps to guard against reckless the Mennonite experience of 500 years forces compliance and awakens hidden interventions, but that same requirement of peace-living built on Jesus to be an hatred. for unanimity frequently means inaction, important—and perhaps even crucial— even in the face of extreme violence, as in gift in a world teetering on the brink of CM: For the sake of the oppressed in Rwanda in the mid-1990s and in Sudan self-destruction. places like Darfur, Somalia and Congo, today. An example from the CPT team do you think Mennonites should embrace No part of the R2P mandate authorizes experience in Colombia illustrates this. the R2P doctrine, however reluctantly, as the resort to force in a relatively stable When I was visiting there a call for a maybe making the best of a bad situation? situation for the purposes of preventing presence of protection came from a If not, what other options are there? future chaos. The resort to force comes remote village where conflict had broken Regehr: Yes, Mennonites should most into play when “genocide, war crimes, out between armed groups allied to the assuredly embrace the R2P doctrine—but ethnic cleansing and crimes against government and to underground forces. not reluctantly. humanity” are already present or are By the time Scott Kerr, an experienced Our tradition embodies an extraordi- imminent and apparently unavoidable— CPT member, and I reached the village, nary commitment to aiding the vulner- in other words, when prevention has more than half the people had fled and able and we should welcome the 2005 demonstrably failed. the firefight was temporarily over. When UN Summit commitment by states col- Despite occasional periods of isolation and capitulation to violence, I now regard the Mennonite experience of 500 years of peace-living built on Jesus to be an important—and perhaps even crucial—gift in a world teetering on the brink of self-destruction. (Gene Stoltzfus)

It would certainly be possible to make a we arrived, we saw blood. Those who lectively “to use appropriate diplomatic, theoretical case for military pre-emption remained were terrorized because they humanitarian and other peaceful means” to prevent extreme suffering, but there knew that both sides would return and to try to protect the vulnerable. Our trad- is virtually no possibility that such a charge individuals in the community ition also counsels a deep wariness of the pre-emptive action would gain Security with collaboration, with the possibility of resort to force—and we should continue Council approval. further executions. to be guided by that wariness. The overwhelming response of the Indeed, one armed group returned But when the choice is between mil- international community is caution and to the village two hours later and began itary intervention modelled on respon- reluctance to intervene—and the women conducting house-to-house searches sible police action that has a reasonable and children of Darfur, Somalia and while their commander sat down with chance of saving lives and protecting Congo pay a heavy price for our caution. us. My experienced partner talked to people from heinous crimes, on the one him softly and firmly, requesting that his hand, and the abandonment of com- Stoltzfus: Forty years ago I renewed soldiers not enter houses because visiting munities to genocide and women and my Anabaptist baptismal vows after five homes would make the occupants targets children to such heinous crimes, on the years as a civilian in the Vietnam War. I of his enemy. other, then it is not the theology of Just did so because I believed that the place to Within minutes, the commander War that should compel us to call on start peacemaking was from a people and ordered soldiers to stop and within an responsible state authorities to protect faith position that would not kill other hour his 30-soldier unit moved out. Later those subject to extreme and ongoing people or use armed force. in the day, representatives from the other violence, availing themselves of the 12 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

means of restrained force if necessary. Stoltzfus: Our words are only completed the Spirit has chosen to plant within us, Viewpoints That call should come from the theology with our actions. Billions of people are this century will really be different. The of a common humanity and a spirit of now calling out to all Christians—and children of lions and lambs will truly play forbearance. to us specifically. This is the moment to together. Of course, there can never be any guar- remember who Mennonites are and how antee that such intervention will be suc- we do things. This is the time to multiply Tshimika: I don’t think Mennonites cessful. Indeed, in circumstances of ex- our peacemaking and conflict transfor- should embrace either one of these treme lawlessness and endemic violence, mation efforts, maybe by thousands, and extremes. there is always the chance that forced invite people of the Spirit everywhere to Mennonite World Conference, which intervention will make the situation join in. brings together all the Mennonites and worse. Therefore, both the methodology If Christians, including Mennonites, Brethren in Christ from around the world, sees itself as a “community,” which means that our goal is to seek for ways The paradox in our [Anabaptist] witness is that we are that best express our greater sense of usually the first ones to leave areas of unrest and make belonging following the example of Jesus Christ. Jesus was not an extremist. He declarations once in safe places. (Pakisa Tshimika) met people where they were. I know that we are far from being a perfect community, but we should con- of force and the circumstances in which can’t figure out a way to do better, we tinue to challenge each other to make a it is used must be carefully assessed to must admit that an armed intervention- reality of Paul’s teaching to the Ephesians weigh the risks and the possible bene- ist group is the answer and we may have that we are no longer foreigners or aliens fits of intervention. If such assessment to get behind it with money, people and to each other. When that becomes a concludes that forced intervention has a organization. However, this will mean reality, then and only then will we walk reasonable chance of saving many lives putting off finding alternatives to blood- side by side with each other to make a that would otherwise be abandoned, we letting and war for another generation. difference in the countries where we are obviously cannot counsel abandonment. This is a time of enormous opportu- present. It is the mission and vocation of pacifists nity. This is our time to overcome our We must strive to promote peace and to redouble our efforts towards the peace- caution and compromise. The spirit has justice not only in theory—or because ful prevention of genocide and other hor- given us wide margins of grace. If one that was the way of the 16th century— rific crimes against vulnerable people, but million Mennonites and their friends but because it is the right thing to do in when prevention fails nation-states have now in every corner of the globe got our time. l a responsibility to act. The international behind the peacemaking dream that community’s affirmation, through the UN, of that responsibility is welcome. The next step is to ensure the world goes beyond affirmation to timely action.

Koontz: As I stated earlier, the recent ΛΛFor discussion argument for R2P is really just the newest 1. Are there situations in our families and communities when we use force to shape of the argument against pacifism. provide protection? Under what conditions would you inform authorities that a This is not to say it is a weak argument. neighbour’s child needed protection? Any pacifist Christian who has not struggled deeply with the force of the 2. How effective is violence or the use of force in providing protection? Do you argument that love of neighbour implies agree with Koontz that “violence to stop violence frequently fails” (page 8)? a responsibility to protect—with violence Was the Mennonite Selbstschutz (Self-Defence Unit) able to protect Mennonite if necessary—is morally obtuse. women and children? But this form of the argument is no more right than the other forms of it were 3. Regehr declares that the R2P doctrine is not based on Just War theology when they were used against our pacifist (page 9), while Koontz says it is (pages 7-8). Which argument do you find more forebears. If we now find it more per- convincing? suasive, it is likely because we are more wealthy and influential—powerful—than 4. How should the Mennonite Church respond to the World Council of most generations of Mennonites before Churches’ position on the Responsibility to Protect doctrine (page 5)? us. We are in our own Constantinian shift. Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 13

Viewpoints EE Enlightenment philosopher not an individualist ideologue ΛΛReaders write Scott Brubaker-Zehr’s feature article We welcome your comments and publish most letters sent by (“Dying and rising: The church through the eyes of subscribers intended for publication. Respecting our theol- Paul,” Feb. 18, page 4) is timely in that he calls us to ogy of the priesthood of all believers and of the importance remember that Christ’s ways are not our ways. Alas, of the faith community discernment process, this section is Brubaker-Zehr’s criticism of philosopher John Locke a largely open forum for the sharing of views. Letters are does not stand up to scrutiny. It is important to know the opinion of the writer only—publication does not mean the people of the Enlightenment better, because they endorsement by the magazine or the church. Letters should sought to implement valuable ideas and modelled at- be brief and address issues rather than individuals. titudes beneficial for us today. Please send letters to be considered for publication to Locke saw monarchs who claimed divine right as [email protected] or by postal mail or fax, a threat to individuals’ right to life and property. But marked “Attn: Letter to the Editor” (our address is on page Locke was far from believing that individuals were the 3). Letters should include the author’s contact information fundamental sociological reality. God, Locke says, did and mailing address. Letters are edited for length, style and not make humans to live and act alone, but to seek out adherence to editorial guidelines. and enter into society. His fundamental argument is developed in “The Second Treatise of Government,” in

From Our Leaders worship and fellowship. I will never forget our times of praying together. Still learning to be a missional church Helping link congregations with Witness workers on North American as- Marv Baergen signment—and often then helping them s I come to the end of my time that congregation’s partnership with formalize mission partnerships with with Mennonite Church Canada, Norm and Lillian Nicolson in Burkina these workers—has been exciting and AI am so very thankful to God and Faso. Earlier, the Word of Life (Hispanic) rewarding. More recently, there has been to the church for the opportunities for congregation at Calgary co-hosted a significant interest expressed by congre- service that I have been given. celebration of mission in South America; gations wanting to partner directly with For the past five years I have had the Lao Community Mennonite Church in other Mennonite congregations around privilege of working with Mennonite Calgary co-hosted a celebration of mis- the globe. This represents yet another Church Alberta and its leaders in the area sion in southeast Asia; and the Korean step in the direction of truly becoming a of missional formation and congregational contingent within Trinity Mennonite global church. partnerships. These have been times of Church prepared the meal to celebrate Learning what it means to become a tremendous change as MC Canada and that congregation’s new partnership with missional church “across the street” as MC USA reshaped their structural identities and developed their re- Learning what it means to become a missional spective visions for ministry “across the street and around the world.” church . . . is an ongoing challenge. It has been exciting to walk alongside congregations as they trans- Jesus Village Church in South Korea. well as “around the world” is an ongoing ferred their “name brand” loyalty It was both humbling and gratifying challenge. We still have much to learn, from our beloved Commission on to find ways of connecting our new- as individuals and congregations, about Overseas Mission in the former General comer groups with our predominantly how to best proclaim God’s good news in Conference structure to the new MC Caucasian congregations and, in turn, our daily lives. It helps to be reminded of Canada Witness. linking them to international ministry. Jesus’ parables of mustard seed and yeast. Highlights include several formal Having a small part in planning and God is the author of mission and he can celebrations of international mission hosting the IMPaCT gathering in Alberta bless even our smallest and apparently complete with banquets prepared by last year was another highlight. It was insignificant efforts. newcomer groups. In the past year, truly a work of the Holy Spirit to observe the African community at Holyrood how quickly pastors from three differ- Marv Baergen is just finishing his job as MC Canada Witness missional formation and congregational Mennonite Church helped celebrate ent continents came together in spirit, partnership facilitator with MC Alberta. 14 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

which he argues that people can best guard their nat- Beliefs about salvation, he wrote, cannot be forced by ural freedom and enjoy equal rights when they form the government, but are formed by the voluntary and a political covenant with one another. Political society secret choice of the mind. But Locke limits religious begins where everybody gives up their individual freedom, saying that the good of the commonwealth rights and consents with others to make a body politic. prevails over individual choices. That body is a community with the power to act as one The writings of Locke had a tremendous influence body, and everyone is bound by the majority decisions on continental philosophers and rulers. Joseph II of of the body. When government violates human rights the Habsburg monarchy and his peer, Frederick II of and freedoms, the people can dismiss it through regu- Prussia, used society’s tool, the state, to relieve the lar elections, but the life of society continues. oppressions of the common people. Both introduced In his “Essay Concerning Toleration,” Locke recog- a limited religious toleration, ended the use of torture nized the rights of individual conscience in religion. in the judiciary, and sought to relieve the sufferings

Outside the Box (program, gathering, household and life) must be disciple-making. If we aren’t making disciples, we’re not be- The new energy crisis ing disciples. Many of our forms keep us busy but really don’t form radically Phil Wagler obedient disciples of Jesus who have picked up their crosses to follow him and lightly northwest of my home the late British prime minister Winston usher in the kingdom wherever they go. near thawing Lake Huron stands a Churchill, shaped our buildings and then • Fourth, we must learn from ancients Smammoth windmill. This attempt they shaped us. Many of the forms we and currents. Most of what we’re at the greening of our energy needs was have relied on for passing on the faith are frustrated with has been found wanting raised skyward a couple years ago, but burning us out, sucking us dry, and lack previously and renewal has always come has yet to work. It just sits there, towering signs of life transformation. One genera- from those able to harness the wind for over cattle that seem as baffled by this tion can’t figure out why no one will step a new day. We can gain courage and overgrown propeller Popsicle as the rest up and another can’t understand why creativity by looking back and by being of us. anyone would want to. Much of what students of current fresh movements of This recent move to harness the wind we’re doing is proving unsustainable for the Spirit, which are often found where seems like the “Wal-Marting” of the old a new world where the church is increas- we’re not looking. mom and pop windmills that occupied a ingly on the margins. The church has its • Fifth, we must remember that God’s space on many farms for gen- erations. The problem with this Many of our forms keep us busy but really don’t particular megaton man-toy is that, apparently, no one thought form radically obedient disciples of Jesus. . . . through how it might connect to the grid. So there it stands, monumental own energy crisis. Allow me to propose a focus is people. Our forms should serve and motionless, a reminder that we’re blueprint for moving forward: people, people shouldn’t serve forms. still trying to figure things out. • First, we must rediscover the gospel God loves people and uses forms; we There are parallel realities facing and the Holy Spirit. Jesus and his good must be wary of loving forms and using this new energy crisis and the forms of news do not change. He, his cross, his people. church life we know. Our fast-moving, kingdom and the breath of the Spirit are • Sixth, we must return to our knees. power-sucking culture is being forced to our true energy. We are not going to pro- It is pathetic how much of what we do figure out new ways and forms. This is gram or politically manoeuvre our way is done with nothing more than token good, but it will take time. Furthermore, out of this. We need a miracle! prayer. Having erected our forms with there appears to be a rediscovery of • Second, we must resist the tempta- our hands, we rarely call on God to what the ancients already knew—hence, tion to over-reliance on what we know. stretch out his. No wonder we have an windmills. No forms will ever adequately contain energy crisis. In our churches an equally profound the power of God. In fact, they might Phil Wagler is a pastor of the Kingsfield-Zurich and confounding shift is taking place. hinder it once we entrench them and Mennonite & Kingsfield-Clinton congregations. Much church life these days seems become blind to the fact that they’re no ([email protected]). disappointing, frustrating and tired. A longer hooked to the grid. few generations ago we, in the words of • Third, at the heart of every form Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 15

of the peasants. EE Preaching rightly done Although the roots of contemporary individual- is ‘expository exhultation’ ism can be found in the 18th century, Locke and the rulers he influenced had a stronger commitment to Tom Long’s concerns about preaching are timely the welfare of the larger community than they did to and pertinent (“Breaking the habits of defective individualism. sermons,” Feb. 18, page 15). John Piper, in his book John Klassen, Langley, B.C. The Supremacy of God in Preaching, calls preaching “expository exultation.” He points out that a lot of John Klassen is professor emeritus in Trinity Western University’s contemporary preaching is too anthropocentric— history department. relational, anecdotal and psychological. John Peters, Waterloo, Ont.

New Order Voice prayer, silence or guided meditation can bring a sense of calmness and an awareness of God. Even though destruc- Finding hope while tion surrounds us, we can perceive and participate in a love that unites and sleeping in cars edifies. Irrationally, I perceive something larger in our midst working for healing Aiden Enns and hope. I trust that Jesus embodied this something larger, this transcendent ’m not afraid to try different things. Madison, Wis., and then Chicago before dimension that is also immanent. The adventure alone is a source of we finally arrived in Elkhart. I know that along each of these avenues Iexcitement. It can also be a source of How does this fit with a reflection on of hope lies the potential for discourage- hope. hope? Well, it stems from my discovery that ment. You may take some action and For example, in early March I travelled there are at least three things we can do to things may not improve; you may seek from Winnipeg to Elkhart, Ind, in a rental facilitate the arrival of hope in our lives. meaning and yet remain confused; you car, a Ford Focus station wagon. I went • Take action. In a consumer society we may try contemplation and still feel with Karen, who wanted to try sleeping are trained to be passive. We look for spiritually dry. Hope is not guaranteed; in the back of the car as an adventure. labour-saving conveniences; we prefer it’s a state of mind that comes from con- Motel rooms are generic and therefore the easy to the difficult. Why make pizza tinual effort and “breakthroughs” beyond profoundly disorienting. I want to exist dough when you can buy it ready-made? our control. physically on this earth, not in some But with passivity comes a sense of If I’m discouraged by a society that pro- figment of formulaic rental space. Yes, powerlessness and a diminished cap- motes consumer comforts and neglects the familiar surroundings are designed acity for the rigours of life. Led by your nature and the lower classes, it brings me for our comfort, but these spaces are conscience, any small, difficult step can hope to sleep in a car instead of flying in also designed to take us away from our bring a sense of empowerment. This can a plane or taking a hotel. As I augment connection to the soil beneath our feet and the neighbour next door. By the time we awoke... the frost was almost This not only reduces our capacity for compassion, it helps us forget a centimetre thick on the inside of the windows. about it altogether. If you sleep in a car on the street in a precipitate hope. this action with counterculture teachings, strange town, however, it’s much harder • Seek meaning. When we’re over- such as Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, my to forget where you are. So, with three whelmed with the problems of the world, hope moves towards the fullness of life. If heavy blankets and some foam pad- it’s easy to feel numb or paralyzed. This you try similar experiments, let me know. ding, we slept “outside” in Fargo, N.D. is a good time to pursue knowledge I want to share the hope. The temperature dropped to minus-20 through lectures, books or adult edu- degrees Celsius. By the time we awoke cation in church. With understanding Aiden Enns can be reached at aiden@geezmagazine. org. He is a member of Hope Mennonite Church the next morning, the frost was almost comes new possibilities for action, which in Winnipeg and sits on the Canadian Mennonite a centimetre thick on the inside of the often brings hope. board. windows. We spent the next night in • Try contemplation. Time spent in 16 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

ΛΛMilestones Deaths Bearinger—Jessie Ann (nee Milne), 82 (b. Dec. 4, 1924; d. Births/Adoptions Nov. 22, 2007), Mannheim Mennonite, Petersburg, Ont. Friesen—Sonia Kisa Elizabeth (b. 2003; adopted March Bergen—Irma, 80 (b. Feb. 2, 1928; d. March 18, 2008), Zoar 4, 2008), by Debbie Friesen, Sargent Ave. Mennonite, Mennonite, Langham, Sask. Winnipeg, in Uganda. Borne—Lena (nee Schlichting), 87 (b. May 13, 1920; d. Feb. Griffioen—Aliya Marie (b. March 15, 2008), to Mark and 7, 2008), Springstein Mennonite, Man. Stephanie Griffioen,E rb Street Mennonite, Waterloo, Ont. Dyck—Jacob, 87 (b. Dec. 30, 1920; d. Jan. 20, 2008), First Hamann—Anna Elisabeth (b. Jan. 2, 2008), to Claudia and Mennonite, Winnipeg. Scott Hamann, First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Elias—Isaac W., 89 (b. Oct. 28, 1918; d. Nov. 8, 2007), Jacomen—Mya Heather (b. March 19, 2008), to Jaime (nee Morden Mennonite, Man., in Vancouver, B.C. Nafziger) and Tom Jacomen, Crosshill Mennonite, Ont. Enns—Peter, 90 (b. Nov. 14, 1917; d. Jan. 19, 2008), First Leis—Lauren J. (b. March 7, 2008), to Lindsay and Scott Leis, Mennonite, Winnipeg. Shantz Mennonite, Baden, Ont. Enns—Wilhelm, 75 (b. Sept. 21, 1932; d. March 5, 2008), Mauer—Katherine Rose (b. Dec. 28, 2007), to Robert and Springstein Mennonite, Man. Rosemarie Mauer, Springstein Mennonite, Man. Froese—Frieda, 95 (b. Jan. 2, 1913; d. Jan. 3, 2008), First Mierau—Pieter Rudi (b. Jan. 4, 2007), to Monique and Mennonite, Winnipeg. Terence Mierau, Petitcodiac Mennonite, N. B. Funk—Tina, 86 (b. July 20, 1921; d. Dec. 16, 2007), First Peters—Kyle (b. Jan. 30, 2008), to Jae Sook and James Peters, Mennonite, Winnipeg. First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Horst—Selina, 87 (b. Jan. 22, 1921; d. March 13, 2008), St. Reimer—Portia Rose (b. Dec. 17, 2007), to Pam Reimer and Jacobs Mennonite, Ont. Malcolm Balk, Mennonite Fellowship of Montreal. Loewen—Olga (Ollie), (d. Jan. 2, 2008), Home Street Roth—Bennett Christopher (b. March 8, 2008), to Adam Mennonite, Winnipeg. and Melanie Roth, Eigenheim Mennonite, Rosthern, Sask., in Martens—Elisabeth, 85 (b. Dec. 24, 1922; d. March 5, 2008), Red Deer, Alta. First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Toews—Isabella Rae (b. Nov. 7, 2007), to Amanda and Jeff McBeath—Heather, 56 (b. April 8, 1949; d. Nov. 17, 2006), Toews, Home Street Mennonite, Winnipeg. Petitcodiac Mennonite, N. B. Veitch—Alex Robert (b. March 10, 2008), to Krista and Moyer—Carson Menno, 81 (b. May 3, 1926; d. Feb. 14, Scott Veitch, St. Jacobs Mennonite, Ont. 2008), Mannheim Mennonite, Petersburg, Ont. Williams—Aidan John (b. Jan. 12, 2008), to Lilli and Stuart Peters—Arnetta, 93 (b. March 25, 1914; d. March 8, 2008), Williams, Home Street Mennonite, Winnipeg. First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Riediger—Nick, 85 (b. Aug. 21, 1922; d. Jan. 12, 2008), First Baptisms Mennonite, Winnipeg. Striemer—Rosella (nee Giesbrecht), 79 (b. Sept. 21, 1928; d. —Crosshill Mennonite, Katrina Bender and Chantel Roth Jan. 10, 2008), Zoar Mennonite, Waldheim, Sask. Ont., March 23, 2008. Thiessen—Pamela, 81 (b. Nov. 12, 1926; d. Dec. 22, 2007), —Sargent Ave. Mennonite, Winnipeg, March Rachel Enns First Mennonite, Winnipeg. 16, 2008. Canadian Mennonite welcomes Milestones Marriages announcements within four months of the event. Please send Milestones announcements by e-mail to milestones@ Redekopp/Wiens—Elizabeth Redekopp and Matthew canadianmennonite.org, including the congregation name Wiens, Home Street Mennonite, Winnipeg, Dec. 15, 2007. and location. When sending death notices, please include birth date and last name at birth if available. Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 17

Living Within Limits: Part V crops like coffee, cocoa and bananas are not energy crops, so their export value will increase more slowly than the import cost of staples. Third, the poor already The high cost spend a large fraction of their income on food, and have far less economic room to manoeuvre than most North Americans of cheap food do. Paul Fieguth There is no single person to be held accountable for this mess. If there are e have, as a nation, become crops, mostly corn for ethanol and soy people willing to pay for energy, then “the amazingly flippant about beans or jatropha (a tropical plant) for system” finds a way to provide it. Every Wfood. bio-diesel. We are now seeing extensive time you book a flight or buy gasoline We are ignorant about where food mono-cropping (no crop rotation) of you declare yourself willing to pay for comes from, we utterly rely on “the sys- corn in North America, and the clear- the energy, regardless of where it comes tem” for food security, we appear willing ing of the Amazon rainforest for soy from. to consume the strangest concoctions of beans and the Indonesian rainforest for If you don’t like the sound of fuel- chemicals made to appear as food, and jatropha. All three of these are ecological versus-food, the only rational response we buy food as cheaply as possible. There disasters and, in many cases, human and is to reduce your energy consumption, is a cost, however, to cheap food. cultural disasters, too. to declare your unwillingness to have Our government looks for ways to Although the world grows vast energy at any cost. make food cheap with subsidies or trade amounts of produce, it pales in compari- In contrast to daunting global issues, barriers, and farmers are pressured to son with our energy use. Total worldwide food and energy consumption is one look for ways to make food cheap by food production has an energy of only place where the individual has clear using pesticides and especially by relying one-fifth to one-sixth as much as world- choices. One can buy local organic on cheap energy. The reliance on energy wide fossil fuel consumption. The entire foods, buy fair-trade products or plant a has progressed to the point that, by the U.S. corn crop, if converted into ethanol, vegetable garden. One can purchase dry time the food reaches our plates, approximately 10 calories of If you don’t like the sound of fuel-versus-food, fuel energy have gone into every the only rational response is to . . . declare your single food calorie we eat. Cheap food is probably erod- unwillingness to have energy at any cost. ing future agricultural capital. To produce food—temporarily at least— at the lowest possible price is easy: Wreck would come nowhere near replacing U.S. goods by the sack, purchase butchered the land! Plant like mad, deplete the gasoline consumption. It is important to meat in bulk from a local farmer, or buy topsoil, drain the groundwater, fertilize clearly understand, therefore, that to re- fruits and vegetables by the bushel in and poison the ecosystem. But just like place even a modest fraction of fossil fuel season to freeze or can. ballooning credit-card debt, eating away use will require a huge amount of food. You are commanded, in no uncertain at agricultural capital can continue only And who ends up suffering when food terms, to love your neighbour as yourself. so long. starts getting converted into fuel? The I, therefore, see a responsibility to: While it is true that food prices have poor, mostly in Africa and Asia. Terrible • Yourself (your health, the health of your recently increased, it’s not because North political games have been played with family); American consumers have embraced food prices, primarily between the • Your community (by not eating into quality food. The reason is far more per- United States and Europe. Even worse ecological capital); nicious: In the same way that we can use is the deliberate, systematic targeting of • The rest of humanity (through fair fuel to produce food, we can convert food the poor, such as the despicable history forms of trade); and into fuel. of the United Fruit Company in Central • All of creation (the global environ- In principle, producing bio-diesel or America. ment). l ethanol seems like a good idea. They are Now the food-to-fuel race will be yet carbon-neutral. However, producing fuel one more slap against the world’s poor. Paul Fieguth is an associate professor in systems design engineering at the University of Waterloo, from agricultural output is not necessar- First, the energy crops like corn and Ont., and a member of Waterloo North Mennonite ily good for the environment. Large-scale beans are staples, so increases in the costs Church. For expanded versions of these articles, production of bio-fuel is most convenient of these products affect the poor very resources or to contact him, visit ocho.uwaterloo.ca/ from the large-scale production of single strongly. Second, many Third World cash limits or e-mail [email protected]. 18 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

Young Prophets God at work in the World violence. On the ground, factionalism and disunity run rampant. If ever there Living life was a hopeless situation, it is here in Palestine. When I witness what is going on, I have to ask myself why I continue to work in’shallah on social justice issues when positive By Rachelle M. Friesen change ceases to happen. Then I realize the reason is in’shallah. In’shallah is not idle resignation. It is n Palestine, we conclude every ap- the consequences, for the consequences actively working for the freedom and pointment made and social event are out of our control. justice of others. Just as Palestinians don’t Iplanned by saying in’shallah, mean- It’s easy to get discouraged while wait for the checkpoints to be lifted to ing “God willing.” This small phrase listening to people’s stories of occupa- cross into their neighbouring villages, illustrates two crucial aspects of daily life tion, hearing gunfire and bombs from even when harassment and humiliation in Palestine: Israeli soldiers, and seeing a two-storey seem inevitable, we as Christians must • The unpredictability of the situation we wall divide communities. My neighbours strive to be witnesses of peace, actively live in; and struggle to put food on the table, others working against violence and the oppres- • The steadfast hope, rooted in faith, that have been arrested and tortured in Israeli sion of all people, and nonviolently dis- is needed to function in such an unstable, detention, and my friend cannot reach mantling the injustices of empire, holding volatile place. her olive trees because of the wall. the builders and defenders of empire to It is learning to live my life in’shallah The peace talks last fall in Annapolis, account. that has shaped my faith so strongly Md., were just theatre without imple- In reality, we know things may not turn while living here in Bethlehem. Every mentation, bringing the risk of even more out positively, but through our trust in day in Palestine, checkpoints, roadblocks Photo courtesy of Rachelle M. Friesen God we have hope, and our actions need and military incursions disrupt meetings, to reflect our trust in God and God’s family times and appointments. coming kingdom. Our actions are the When I travel to Jerusalem, I have no actions of being Christian, refusing to idea how long I’ll spend at the check- submit to empire and standing against it, point. Some days, I have stood for over not because the empire will collapse with an hour waiting to get my documents this stance but because we are Christians checked and my purse X-rayed so that following the will of God who will some- I can visit a friend who lives only a five- day overcome the empire. minute walk away on the other side of the Thus, our hope comes not from our “security wall.” own work, but from the work of God. Here in Palestine we are uncertain if This hope is not mere optimism, but we will reach our destination or if we will is rather a hope rooted in the action of have to turn back. And yet we continue following in the path of Jesus, which to try to reach our destination even when requires living a life for the liberation of the probability of success is bleak. This is others regardless of the results, with an not a time to give up when we know we attitude that in’shallah it will happen. might not make our destined event, but In’shallah, Palestine will one day feel to attempt to arrive, attempt to live a life, liberation’s warm embrace. and in’shallah we do. Living in a place of constant violence Rachelle M. Friesen, 22, is currently in the middle of a one-year internship serving in Bethlehem with and oppression, in’shallah is a bold state- Wi’am, a grassroots organization that provides ment. It is an affirmation of our faith and the people of Bethlehem with community-based trust in God, and our belief that God mediation, and is trying to disseminate a culture has a plan far greater than ours. Living of active nonviolence in the West Bank. She is life in’shallah requires taking risks, get- a member of Emmaus Mennonite Church in Rachelle M. Friesen stands in front of the Wymark, Sask., and a recent graduate of Canadian ting turned away, being interrogated for “security wall” separating Israel from Mennonite University in Winnipeg. hours, and living our lives regardless of Palestine. Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 19

God at work in the World truck at each end of the walk played peace Commission of the Evangelical Council songs over loudspeakers. of Colombia released their second report There were tents along the way with on the violence endured by the Protestant water for the walkers. Ignoring the trash- churches, entitled “A Prophet’s Call.” cans, many carried their cups and dropped Hunter-Bowman says the report indi- Plan for a them in the street when they were finished. cates that there is still “a long way to go in Kristin noticed this and picked up the dis- achieving peace and the conflict can’t be carded cups, but soon her hands were full. solved militarily.” clean world The father of a schoolmate found a bag for This report on international humanitar- her. It was quickly filled, so he went into ian law and human rights violations against By Cathryn Clinton Mennonite Central Committee a store and got another one. Other walk- church and church members documents Candeias, Brazil ers noticed, and both children and adults findings from 2006. It also contains cases began to help Kristin and Kyra, who had that occurred in 2004-05, but were not joined her sister in the task. published in the first report released early ristin Hurst’s plan for a clean world is Kristin thanked people for their trash last year, including 16 homicides and many Khappening one step at a time. During deposit. Kristin’s mother pointed out to cases of people who were forced to flee, a peace walk in Candeias, many joined Kristin that her actions had encouraged used as human shields, tortured or sub- Kristin in her work. others to take care of the earth. Kristin jected to other human rights violations. Seven-year-old Kristin and her five- grinned and said, “Then my plan is Death threats were the most common year-old sister, Kyra, together with their working!” form of aggression. Mennonite Central Committee worker When asked for specifics about her plan, Like the first report, though, the second parents, John Hurst and Julie Alexander, Kristin replied, “Well, I hope that if I pick one includes examples of how churches are took part in the first peace walk in up litter, then maybe other people will see working for peace, bringing transforma- Candeias. A number of the schools in the me and want to do it too. If they do it, then tion through repentance, reconciliation region sponsored the event, with the ob- maybe it will spread to other people and on and justice. While others focus on war and jective of promoting social, environmental and on, until the whole world is clean!” weapons, some courageous congregations and internal peace. As her mother said, “Why aim small?” focus on hope by responding to the needs Children, youths and adults wearing of victims of violence. In addition to hu- white shirts filled the streets for the 3.2 manitarian work, the churches provide kilometre walk. Some waved white hand- psycho-social recovery and legal advice. kerchiefs, and some, like the Hursts, car- A prophetic call “In suffering there [are] always signs of ried a peace flag. The crowd sang along as a hope,” says Alix Lozano, president of the Photo by Julie Alexander Violence against Protestant Mennonite Church of Colombia. churches, congregants Javier Pinzón, whose testimony is in the report, is an example of positive trans- still a reality for formation. A colonel in the Colombian Colombian Christians military for 28 years, he resigned because he “in no way could continue taking up By Cathryn Clinton Mennonite Central Committee arms and preparing for war.” He found the BOGOTA, COLOMBIA Mennonite Brethren Church and commit- ted his life to Christ. Today, Pinzón is farm- ing, with the goal of creating an Anabaptist ome Colombian government statistics community to serve the rural community Swould suggest that human rights viola- of El Rodeo. tions in this South American country are The report calls for the international improving, but the churches there offer a community to respond in a number of fuller version of what’s really happening. ways, including: Janna Hunter-Bowman, a Mennonite • Participating in the Days of Prayer and Central Committee (MCC) worker, co- Action scheduled for April 27 and 28; and ordinates a documentation and advocacy • Sharing the report’s testimonies in Not only did Kristin Hurst participate program that records the suffering and churches and in advocacy letters to gov- in a peace walk in Brazil, she picked up hope of the Colombian Protestant church- ernment officials. trash strewn on the street by some littering es. JustaPaz, a Colombian Mennonite peace walkers. and justice organization, and the Peace 20 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

Richard Twiss offers Bridging the prayer with tradition- al song and drum dur- ing the annual spring Partnership Circles gathering in Winnipeg cultural divide last month. Aboriginal theologian urges ‘proper’ mixture of Christianity with First Nations traditions

By Deborah Froese Mennonite Church Canada WINNIPEG

ine out of 10 aboriginal people reject self-hatred, he said. through song, dance and NChristianity as the “white man’s” re- Twiss recalled being labelled a syncretist drumming. In the follow-up ligion, according to Richard Twiss. And when he began calling aboriginals back to discussion some asked how he finds it ironic that in the Genesis story, their culture. “I was continually accused to discern the theological Adam is created from “red” earth. of trying to blend Indian religion with validity of such practices. A Rosebud Lakota theologian from Christian faith, resulting in a hybridized, But for most, the sights Washington State, Twiss encourages ab- mongrel religion that was neither one nor and sounds of reverberating original people from North America and the other,” he said. drums, chanting, bright trad- around the world to use appropriate as- Integrating culture and theology requires itional dress and expressions pects of their cultural traditions to express discernment, he cautioned, referring to of pure joy evoked emotional Christ-centred theology. He recognizes the example of praying with sweetgrass responses. Norman Meade, culture as the heart language of the in- smoke. “Praying with sweetgrass smoke a Metis elder, was moved by digenous church, a language that will free can be idolatry or worshipful,” he said, ex- the uninhibited dance of chil- indigenous people to live the abundant life plaining that, “if you thank God for giving dren. “It comes from here,” he that Jesus came to provide. smoke power, it’s syncretism.” However, said, tapping his chest. At the invitation of Mennonite Church he added that using smoke as a symbolic For others, the videos Canada Native Ministry and Mennonite representation of prayer rising to God in stirred memories. Hilda Church Manitoba, Twiss brought this heaven can be worshipful and meaningful Franz recalled observing her vision to the annual spring Partnership in a cultural context. Only when cultural adopted aboriginal son attend his first pow Circles gathering hosted at Home Street tools are worshipped in and of themselves wow. His connection to it was instantly Mennonite Church in Winnipeg last do they become dangerous, he noted. evident, she said. month. Participants watched two videos de- Egon Enns was reminded of a young Twiss recognizes that addiction and picting aboriginals worshipping God aboriginal man who buried a tradition- poor economic circumstances are tough al drum in the woods, afraid of what it Photo by Hyo Sook Yun issues for First Nations communities, but represented. suggested that questions of self-identity Twiss noted that some aboriginals are pose larger problems. He pointed to the hesitant about embracing their own cul- conflicting notion that God loved aborig- ture because they have been led to believe inals so much that he allowed his son to it is inherently evil, but a contrary realiza- die for them, yet objected to their drums, tion is gradually spreading. As the gather- music and ceremonies. “Jesus loves us, ing drew to a close, he suggested that the but he doesn’t like us very much,” Twiss benefits of leaving faith open to cultural quipped. interpretation can extend beyond aborig- Aboriginal Peoples have been led to inal communities. “Take this approach believe that in order to follow Jesus, they sideways for youth and other groups,” he must abandon their traditional ways said, suggesting that they may want to in- and become “white.” These “white”—or Norman and Thelma Meade, long-time herit Jesus but they may not necessarily Eurocentric—biblical interpretations and church leaders in aboriginal communities, want to inherit the traditionally organ- expectations have eroded aboriginal iden- were presented with a quilt during the an- ized church. tity, generating low self-esteem and even nual spring Partnership Circles gathering. Photo by Hyo Sook Yun Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 21

meeting in Winnipeg to assess where the from Morden brought a VBS program to relationships are currently at. the remote community. More recently, the “The most developed relationship is church helped purchase an industrial sew- between Riverton Fellowship Circle and ing machine for making moccasins, but the Sargent Mennonite, Bethel Mennonite aboriginal woman who was teaching the and Douglas Mennonite in Winnipeg,” said Pauingassi women how to use the machine Norm Voth, director of Evangelism and is no longer in the community. “We don’t Service for Mennonite Church Manitoba. really know what direction to take,” said Barb Daniels, secretary and leader at Wiebe. Riverton Fellowship, which is currently “The VBS [Vacation Bible School] without a pastor, explained the relation- program was a good experience for our ship: “They come and help us with the wor- youths, and Allan Owen, the pastor, said ship service. We also visit and share with the children really enjoy that and it is what them. At our yearly Gospel Jamboree they they want,” Wiebe said. “The question for help us. The youth group from Douglas us is how to get the adults involved.” comes every summer with a Vacation Bible Voth, who spends about a third of his School program for 40 to 50 kids every time visiting aboriginal churches, stressed night. We have had a close relationship the importance of developing face-to-face with these churches for five years.” individual relationships. “We need to cre- Other partnerships currently exist ate a structure where people could develop between: these kinds of relationships. It hasn’t hap- • Manigotagan and Steinbach Mennonite pened yet, but we are still hopeful that Church; we can develop relationships in which we • Matheson Island/Pine Dock and Grace can share resources and empower each Mennonite in Winkler and Springfield other.” Heights in Winnipeg; and He acknowledged, though, that geog- • Pauingassi and Springstein Mennonite raphy also presents challenges. “It is not and Morden Mennonite. Winkler Bergthaler Mennonite and ‘You can fly to Haiti for less Little Grand Rapids have done some than it costs to fly to Pauingassi.’ programs together in the past, while Cross Lake is currently without partners. easy or cheap,” he said. “You can fly to Haiti “We struggle with what a partnership for less than it costs to fly to Pauingassi. should look like,” said Voth. “There is a fear And yet we can raise thousands of dol- on the part of the aboriginal and the non- lars to send people on projects all over the Trying to aboriginal of repeating the past. One thing world.” we do very well as Mennonites is serve. We Norman Meade of Manigotagan works like doing that, but we need to exercise with Mennonite Central Committee find the way caution that we don’t make charity cases.” Manitoba’s Aboriginal Neighbours pro- A review of the successes of MC Living Word Church in Cross Lake gram. Meade feels positive about the part- has had the longest history of indige- nership relationship his community has Manitoba’s Partnership Circles nous leadership, but is currently without a with Steinbach Mennonite Church, whose and the challenges they face partner and a pastor. “We still have serv- youths provide a summer VBS program. ices,” said Florence Benson-Umpherville, “We would like the relationship to continue By Evelyn Rempel Petkau who runs the Sunday school program for and we would like to have more exchanges, Manitoba Correspondent 38 children. “We got a building and the especially agriculture exchanges with our Winnipeg basics. Things mean more if you can work youths. We would like to see our youths for them yourselves. Right now, our church more involved with the land, with breaking fter their creation nearly six years ago, couldn’t financially support a minister. If some new soil and gardening,” he said. APartnership Circles—the twinning of we got between a rock and a hard place we Meade likes the concept of Partnership aboriginal communities and congregations could ask for help, but I won’t.” Circles in general. “They are a good way to in northern Manitoba with Mennonite Elsie Wiebe and others at Morden exchange resources with each other, but churches in the southern part of the prov- Mennonite have been trying to discern they have to be nurtured,” he said. “They ince—Canadian Mennonite caught up with what their partnership with Pauingassi can don’t happen on their own. Both parties some of the leaders at last month’s spring look like. For three or four summers, youths have to bring something to the table.” 22 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

MCC PHOTO BY JOANIE PETERS A step forward God at work in the Church Supporting ex-offenders helps build safer communities

By Gladys Terichow Mennonite Central Committee SASKATOON, Sask.

ackyard barbecues hosted by Helmut Mark (with his back to the camera), a Band Dory Isaac are filled with laugh- participant in the Forward Step program, ter, fun and plenty of food. meets with chaplain Darren Friesen, left, “These are the kind of things you and Ken Landis Funk, coordinator of MCC take for granted, but for some of us this Saskatchewan’s Restorative Justice Program. is a big deal,” said Mark, a 29-year old Saskatchewan man who committed 10 in the lives of ex-offenders and others who with his adopted father until about four sexual offences before he was 14. are marginalized by society. “The church or five years ago. “I would like more con- He spent most of his youth in jail and as a whole is not engaged in these needs,” tact with him—I would like to be part of a now lives in a group home for people who he says. “It is time for churches in North happy family again.” have a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder America to do what God wants us to do— His immediate goal in life is to get a job (FASD) or other mental and emotional love people. You don’t need a degree in like moving and stacking boxes. Eventually, challenges. theology to know that we are created to he would like to become a trained and To help him break harmful patterns love people.” qualified forklift operator. and adjust to independent living, Mark Mark was adopted when he was two Mark is optimistic that the support joined Forward Step, a faith-based pro- years old. “I grew up in a great home,” he he receives will help him achieve these gram started by the Saskatoon Community says, explaining he has maintained contact goals. Chaplaincy in 2005 and supported by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Briefly noted Saskatchewan. ΛΛ Forward Step supports ex-offenders Raising non-believers can be a challenge through “being a sounding board, advo- ATLANTA, GA.—Atheist Dale McGowan has developed two ground rules for his cating on their behalf and reducing stress mother-in-law with regard to his children: Don’t discourage them from having doubts in their lives,” says Helmut Isaac, an MCC about the existence of God, and don’t tell them they’re going to hell. Other than that, worker who supports ex-offenders through everything else is fair game. McGowan, the author of Parenting Beyond Belief: On the Forward Step and the Person-to-Person Raising Caring, Ethical Kids Without Religion, says he came up with the two guidelines programs. “It is all about safety in the com- as his family was trying to negotiate the relationship between his three children and munity. Whenever there is too much stress their Evangelical grandmother. McGowan says he doesn’t want his children to identify in their lives, that’s when things go side- with any particular religion until they are old enough to decide for themselves. But ways. It’s about friendship—it is not rocket McGowan is the first to admit that the kind of environment he has chosen to raise science—it is just being a friend.” his children in doesn’t always bode well with the rest of society. Mark was released from prison in 2004 —Religion News Service Release and has not committed a sexual offence for 10 years. Forward Step, he says, gives him Congregation, preservationists at odds over ‘ugly’ D.C. church the opportunity to develop new friend- ships and talk in a safe environment about WASHINGTON, D.C.—The faithful of Washington’s Third Church of Christ, the things that he is experiencing. The Scientist, insist their church has got to go, so they can stay. The structure is brutal, weekly meetings and the ongoing support, they claim. Brutal to look at, brutal to fix, brutal to the church’s efforts to invite new he says, reduce stress in his life and give members. Local preservationists agree, calling it the city’s finest example of Brutalist him new ideas on how to handle different architecture—a harsh, imposing concrete mammoth straight out of the 1970s. Now situations. the two sides are in a pitched fight over the church’s future. The Christian Scientists Darren Friesen, chaplain of the Saskatoon say they want a smaller, more intimate space that’s easier to maintain. Preservationists Community Chaplaincy program, is frus- say it would be a sacrilege to tear down the ugliest church in the nation’s capital. trated that so many church congregations —Religion News Service Release don’t feel compelled to be more involved Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 23

God at work in the Church ask is: “Does he need to hear the gospel?” Stackhouse illustrated his answer with The answer, Stackhouse said, is, “Of course a story about his uncle. He talks about he needs to hear the gospel—everyone everything with his uncle, except the gos- does.” pel. That’s because his uncle doesn’t want Is he saved? For non-believers, hearing the gospel to talk about it, and Stackhouse said he can lead them to salvation, he said. doesn’t want to be one more per- CMU Apologetics Lectures For those who already believe, son trying to shove it down his series features four questions hearing the gospel is a reminder throat. His uncle knows, however, Christians shouldn’t ask and reassurance. Christians need that if he did want to bring it up, to hear the good news at all stages Stackhouse would gladly share Canadian Mennonite University Release of their lives, he added. about his faith. WINNIPEG “What can I do to convert him?” “When we are commending is the third question Christians the faith to people . . . we need or Christians who want to share their shouldn’t ask. The answer, Stackhouse to focus on what really matters,” Ffaith, there are at least four ques- Stackhouse said, is “nothing.” And Stackhouse stated. First and fore- tions they shouldn’t ask, according to not only is there nothing people can do to most, that means loving your neighbour John Stackhouse. The professor of theol- convert non-believers, there is nothing as yourself, because “love is the context in ogy and culture at Regent College in people can do to convert themselves, he which anything else that’s going to happen Vancouver, B.C., was the keynote speaker added. “There are no surefire, snappy argu- is going to happen.” at the three-part Apologetics Lectures ments to [make people] become Christian, People don’t want to hear from someone series entitled, “Is He Saved? And Other or to make spiritually dead people alive. who doesn’t care about them, he noted. Questions Christians Shouldn’t Ask,” at That’s God’s province.” Therefore, Christians need to genuinely Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) The final question Christians shouldn’t love and care for the person they are wit- in Winnipeg. ask, Stackhouse said, is, “How do I treat nessing to. “Is he saved?” is the first question people?” Again, his answer was simple. This is different than how some view Christians shouldn’t ask, Stackhouse said. “Love them. You care for them, you give apologetics—the practice of defending and sharing faith, he stated. For Stackhouse, [H]is uncle doesn’t want to talk about [the gospel], apologetics is not a “bang-clash battle of Briefly noted the champions,” or an “intellectual and ΛΛ and Stackhouse doesn’t want to be one more spiritual blood sport.” It’s not supposed to Raising non-believers can be a challenge person trying to shove it down his throat. be about “bagging victims. It’s supposed ATLANTA, GA.—Atheist Dale McGowan has developed two ground rules for his to be about loving [our] neighbours,” he mother-in-law with regard to his children: Don’t discourage them from having doubts stressed. about the existence of God, and don’t tell them they’re going to hell. Other than that, The reason: Because one can’t know the them whatever good gift you can,” he said, Sharing faith has to be “‘I care about you, everything else is fair game. McGowan, the author of Parenting Beyond Belief: On answer. “I can guess, and I can guess reli- adding that it may mean talking about the and I don’t care so much about how I look Raising Caring, Ethical Kids Without Religion, says he came up with the two guidelines ably,” Stackhouse said, “but I can’t know for gospel with them, and it may mean not in this conversation,’” Stackhouse conclud- as his family was trying to negotiate the relationship between his three children and sure because I am not privy to the [inner talking about the gospel with them—it ed. “Let’s win the friend, not the argument, their Evangelical grandmother. McGowan says he doesn’t want his children to identify workings] of his heart.” depends on whether they are open to it or by God’s grace.” l with any particular religion until they are old enough to decide for themselves. But The second question Christians shouldn’t not. McGowan is the first to admit that the kind of environment he has chosen to raise his children in doesn’t always bode well with the rest of society. Photo by Dave Rogalsky —Religion News Service Release Mary Schiedel, left, one of the Congregation, preservationists at odds over ‘ugly’ D.C. church planners for the Mennonite Spiritual WASHINGTON, D.C.—The faithful of Washington’s Third Church of Christ, Directors of Ontario’s Month of Guided Prayer, lights a candle at the March 2 Scientist, insist their church has got to go, so they can stay. The structure is brutal, closing service at Rockway Mennonite they claim. Brutal to look at, brutal to fix, brutal to the church’s efforts to invite new Church, Kitchener, Ont., watched by Sue members. Local preservationists agree, calling it the city’s finest example of Brutalist Steiner and Margaret Nally, two of the architecture—a harsh, imposing concrete mammoth straight out of the 1970s. Now other planners. More than 40 guides and the two sides are in a pitched fight over the church’s future. The Christian Scientists participants took part in a combined say they want a smaller, more intimate space that’s easier to maintain. Preservationists individual and group Lenten spiritual say it would be a sacrilege to tear down the ugliest church in the nation’s capital. journey, “Out of the Depths.” —Religion News Service Release 24 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

Technology and the gospel Photo by Alicia Reimer Blogging home Online video sharing connects international workers with home

By Deborah Froese Mennonite Church Canada Cyberspace

catchy chord progression on an elec- Atric guitar is what you hear first, then the words “We [love] Isaac Toast” flash blue Joel Kroeker and Heather Peters against a black screen. Cut to a bearded share an “Isaac young man in a heavy jacket and toque. Toast” sandwich “We’re on our way to Isaac Toast, which is made with cab- our first-ever regular dining spot,” says Joel bage, pickles, Kroeker as he packs up his laptop. processed And so begins an engaging video tour of cheese, meat Seoul, South Korea, with Kroeker and his and a fried egg wife Heather Peters as they head to a local with honey-herb restaurant for a Saturday morning treat. sauce. They are communicating with friends and family in Canada through YouTube, the exchange. “A slideshow takes very little ef- blog, where she and her Korean friends popular video-sharing website. fort to produce with software that is readily frequently post pictures and messages. Communicating electronically is not available and fairly user-friendly, and with “Although it’s more work than my English new for young adult Mennonite Church the power of the web tools like YouTube, one, I’m more motivated to write when I Canada Witness workers. E-mail, blogs the small effort to upload the video pays know someone will respond,” she adds. and popular social networking sites dividends by making it a mouse-click away Connexus workers Mark and Vanessa like Facebook have been used for some from anyone who wants to watch it.” Claassen Wiehler also find blogging allows time. Kroeker and Peters, who teach at The Loewens also upload photos to their them to keep in touch with a wider audi- Connexus, a language institute associated website to complement blog posts (online ence, but they prefer e-mails for friends with the Korea Anabaptist Center (KAC), journal entries that others can connect to and family. “E-mails are a little more per- say they also use regular communication and view). sonal,” Mark notes. devices like telephones and “snail-mail,” For Cheryl Woelk, a key staff member at Leah Buermeyer agrees. On a short-term KAC, blogging has internship assignment in Borabu, Thailand, Blogging has provided a way to reflect on provided a way to she posts a blog with photos and activity her experiences and articulate her thoughts. reflect on her ex- updates, but she uses e-mail to keep in periences and ar- touch with close family and friends. She which are relatively inexpensive in Korea. ticulate her thoughts. “It helps me to ap- also speaks to her family on Skype, free Will and Ana Loewen have also posted preciate aspects of my daily life here that I software that allows phone-call-like con- a video online. “I could develop and mail might just take for granted otherwise,” she versation over the Internet. “Technology home a bunch of photographs, include a writes. “I think this blog is more for me in sure has made communicating easy and CD with Korean music and send a little that way than for anyone else.” convenient,” she says. l story, but at a relatively high cost and at Woelk admits her English-language a limited value,” Will writes in an e-mail blog isn’t as active as her Korean-language Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 25

Technology and the gospel mennonitechurchca) on the popular Is MC Canada targeting young people website was to build awareness among with the channel? Not necessarily, Dyck congregations and the wider world of says. He questions whether the videos MC Getting the what the denomi-nation does. Canada produce even have “the edge” ne- Searching the word “Mennonites” on cessary to appeal to a generation raised on YouTube yields a variety of results, Dyck MuchMusic and the Internet. How MC message out says, “some helpful, and some not-so-help- Canada uses YouTube in the future to ful. It’s important to give another point of reach out to younger people “is depend- Mennonite organizations view of who Mennonites are.” ent on what strategy is developed [by MC flocking to YouTube Founded in early 2005 by three com- Canada] for keeping in touch with that puter engineers, YouTube was By Aaron Epp purchased in November 2006 by For the moment, ‘[YouTube is] National Correspondent Google Inc. for $1.76 billion. In WINNIPEG ubiquitous, it’s huge.’ January, the site accounted for three billion of the over nine billion vid- demographic,” Dyck explains. ennonite Church Canada and eos viewed on the Internet, according to CMU recently developed a series of MCanadian Mennonite University PCWorld.com. videos advertising the university. For John (CMU) are two of the latest organizations MC Canada began producing videos Longhurst, director of communications to create their own pages on YouTube, the in 2005 to distribute as DVDs through its and marketing, YouTube is another way popular website that allows users to up- resource centre. Dyck sees YouTube as an- the university can reach out to potential load, view and share video clips. other way to distribute the videos, which students. MC Canada communications dir- document Canadian events as well as work “YouTube is just one of the ways we share ector Dan Dyck says the reason for being done by Witness workers around the [the videos] with the wider world, but it’s an creating a “channel” (youtube.com/ world. important way,” Longhurst says. His goal is to provide a variety of ways of finding AMBS photo by Mary E. Klassen information about CMU, and he believes “YouTube is the one [place] that most poten- tial students would be going to anyway.” Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) created its YouTube channel last November. Like MC Canada and CMU, MEDA uses YouTube as another way of distributing videos it is already pro- ducing for special events, churches and schools. The channel also affords MEDA other opportunities as well, says Ed Epp, vice-president for resource development. “You can make a quicker video that’s not the 100 percent quality you might want to show at a presentation, but that still might interest people,” Epp notes. Although most people think of YouTube New Order Voice columnist Aiden Enns, centre, was one of 21 participants at a consulta- as something for young people, Epp and tion on the impact of technology on cultures at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary Dyck both note they have been approached last month. Trevor Bechtel, right, assistant professor of religion at Bluffton (Ohio) University, by people 55 years old and older who say said, “Mennonites do sometimes maintain a different stance towards technology than they have seen the videos on YouTube. either the Amish or general trends in society. Why do some Mennonites not own televisions? Given the ephemeral nature of popular What are the connections to their ideas of community? These are interesting questions, and culture, it is unclear that YouTube is here potentially politically powerful ones.” Bechtel had hoped the consultation would push the to stay. For the moment, however, “it’s ubi- discussion even farther than it did. “I’m interested in probing not just whether we should use quitous, it’s huge,” says Darryl Neustaedter the Internet or not, but what on the Internet is virtuous,” he said, wondering, “Can we think of ways that the church should use Facebook? I think so. What does community on Second Barg, associate director of media minis- Life or World of Warcraft mean? We need to be critical, and not just negative, about these, tries at MC Manitoba. “Anyone who’s using too, because Mennonites are using them.” Pictured at left is Nina Bartelt Lanctot, pastor and a computer on the Internet today has likely assistant director of the Engaging Pastors program at AMBS. encountered YouTube.” l 26 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

Soulspace . . . Photo by Dave Rogalsky not a church plant By Dave Rogalsky Eastern Canada Correspondent Stratford, Ont.

magine coming to worship at your regu- Ilar Sunday evening meeting time. The worship space is completely dark, not even a candle to guide you. One of the worship curators hands you a blindfold to keep your eyes from getting used to the pitch black of darkness. Tonight, the fourth Sunday of Lent, the focus is on the story of the Anne Campion, soulspace leader, blind man in John 9. After opened their own space in a back row left, visits with guests reading the story, for 20 min- storefront to gather weekly. and regulars at the inaugural utes the worship leader asks Between 13 and 30 people open house of their new worship questions about what you are of all ages usually join in the space earlier this year. experiencing in the story as a struggle with the text while blind person. Afterwards, one participant music of all kinds is played and multimedia notes that to really have experienced blind- presentations play on the big screen. All high attendance of 50 participated in the ness, movement should have been added are invited to express themselves in re- interactive exhibit of the Stations of the to the “blind time.” sponse to the text through tactile art. A Cross on Maundy Thursday. l “We try to stay away from language of ‘church planting’ at soulspace,” says Anne Campion, the pastor, abbess, midwife Pastors ponder growing in faith and spiritual guide of soulspace. “When people talk about church planting, they By Dianne Hildebrand Schlegel ask, ‘Who’s your target audience? Who are Special to Canadian Mennonite journeys, but the experiences and distinct- you trying to reach?’ We don’t have a target Grunthal, Man. ive perspective of each person at any age audience. will reveal as much or more about their “I guess in a way that’s not true,” she hat is faith? What does it mean to faith journey and relationship with God says, correcting herself. “I was thinking Wgrow in faith? What does this look than their life stage alone. about friends with whom I had conversa- like? What’s the goal? Participants were encouraged to con- tions about faith and spirituality, but who On Feb. 22, 45 pastors and church sider a specific person or group of people would never come to church. They didn’t leaders from Manitoba gathered at Elim from their own congregation and ponder experience church as a place for those Mennonite Church in Grunthal for input conversations. They saw church as a place and discernment on these questions. to go when you had belief, to buy into the Resource person Ken Hawkley from doctrinal statement,” rather than a place of Community Mennonite Church in Chicago searching. began by asking, “What is faith?” He then W W T “Church is a very linear place, rather than proposed that faith is about more than be- Complete travel service for your a place to engage in the arts as worship,” lieving; it also encompasses doing. He said business and pleasure needs. Campion says. Soulspace is thus a place to faith is “the activity of making meaning in We specialize in South America engage the text publicly and through the relation to what we perceive as ultimate.” E-mail: [email protected] arts. And “there is always food,” she adds. The dynamics and questions of growth Phone: 1-800-304-6548; 204-326-9411 Meeting together since 2004, the group in faith at different life stages were noted. Fax: 204-326-3795 worshipped bi-weekly in the Campions’ Hawkley noted that individual life stages 276 Main St. Steinbach, MB R5G 1Y8 home until January of this year, when they provide a backdrop for people’s faith Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 27

Photo by Dianne Hildebrand Schlegel The 21 different groups do not come from ‘Mission by church splits, but rather from migration, mission work and the establishment of racial/cultural churches among Spanish- migration’ speaking and indigenous groups. Bechtel lecturer unafraid But great disparities of social standing and financial power exist between the to name strengths and German-speaking immigrant commun- weaknesses in Paraguayan ities and the other churches. Also, Neufeld Jonathan Neufeld, left, Judith Doell Mennonite experience said that the failure to deal with the grief of and Lisa Enns-Bogoya were among 45 loss resulting from the anarchistic commu- Mennonite pastors and leaders who at- By Dave Rogalsky nist revolution in Russia resulted in strong tended a workshop on faith journeys and Eastern Canada Correspondent support of Nazi Germany during World attentive listening at Elim Mennonite Waterloo, Ont. Church in Grunthal on Feb. 22. War II, as well as complicity in the rule of Paraguayan dictator Alfredo Stroessner, n last month’s 2008 Bechtel Lectures who brought a heavy-handed order to the what their faith questions might be, how Ipresentation, Alfred Neufeld spoke on chaotic Paraguayan scene. these people perceive themselves on their “The Mennonite Experience in Paraguay.” Neufeld is the child of immigrants from journey, and how the leaders themselves Dividing his two-part talk into Deiner am Russia, and a leader in the Paraguayan see them. Those in attendance were then Wort (servants of the word) and Deiner Mennonite Brethren Church and the coun- asked what might it mean to notice, name der Notdurft (servants of need), he ex- try’s All-Church Committee. He also chairs and nurture the Christ-likeness they rec- plored the experience of the many differ- the national coordinating committee for ognize in others. ent groups of Mennonites that migrated to next year’s Mennonite World Conference Hawkley spoke about the ministry of at- Paraguay between the 1920s and the wave Assembly 15 in Paraguay. Most recently, he tending to, taking notice, and simply being of post-Second World War refugees in the co-wrote What We Believe Together with willing and able to listen. The pastors and 1940s. his wife Wilma, which explores the seven leaders then participated in an exercise in From the beginning, these immigrant “shared convictions” of Anabaptist-related which they listened—or tried to listen!—to communities ministered to both the in- churches developed by Mennonite World one other person for five minutes without digenous populations around them and Conference members over the past three interjecting their own story or questions. the Spanish-speaking descendants of years. l This was just a taste of how challenging it the European conquest of the Americas. is to listen well—and a glimpse of what can Calling it “mission by migration,” Neufeld happen when people are really heard. noted that for Paraguayan Mennonites ΛΛBriefly noted Attendees were left with the question, mission has always been holistic, includ- MBs ordain first “How might this practice of attentive lis- ing both evangelism and diaconal (service) tening shape the church . . . to become ministry, and was done “at home” since the woman minister more Christ-like?” l refugees had nowhere else to go. VANCOUVER, B.C.—On March 30, On both evenings Neufeld noted Grace Kim, pastor at Pacific Grace Dianne Hildebrand Schlegel is associate pastor of both the strengths and difficulties in the Morden (Man.) Mennonite Church. Mennonite Brethren Church in Paraguayan Mennonite experience, and Vancouver, was ordained. According the hope for the future of the church there. to Ken Reddig, executive secretary of the Mennonite Brethren Historical Commission, Kim is believed to be the first woman to be ordained as a minis- ter of a Canadian MB church, although other women have been ordained as .FOOPOJUF
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God at work in Us address the pain staff were experiencing. multicultural,” he says. “Sven demonstrated the value of be- What are specific things congregations ing a non-anxious presence, confident in can do to accomplish this? Exit Interview God’s providence and sovereignty to sort “Be welcoming and inviting to other cul- out complex relationships and issues,” tures,” he urges. “I’m not saying it’s easy, Nighswander says of his time working with but it should happen. It may be a challenge Steady as Eriksson. “One of his references, when we for an ethnically defined church, but by be- hired him, spoke of Sven as a quiet person ing intentional, creative, flexible and antici- with great wisdom to whom one could pating the guest rather than expecting the she goes turn for sound advice. That was a true guest to just fit in, it can happen.” assessment.” Other priorities for the future of MC Retiring denominational Eriksson’s contribution extended well Canada include mentoring new pastors minister was calming beyond that period, however. As he re- and providing support and resources for flects on the delight he found in his work pastors at each stage of pastoral life, as influence for the ‘ship of faith’ caring for the spiritual health of an entire well as cultivating spiritual practices such known as MC Canada as prayer, Bible study and other spiritual Photo by Dan Dyck disciplines in congregations. By Aaron Epp National Correspondent “We need to get people reading the WINNIPEG Bible,” Eriksson says, noting that he has received feedback from pastors, church t’s hard to talk about the end of Sven leaders and professors that suggests bib- IEriksson’s ministry as denominational lical illiteracy is a concern. minister of Mennonite Church Canada “We need to find ways to stimulate in- without mentioning how it began. terest in the practice of Bible study, both Eriksson started his time in office on individually and in groups,” Eriksson says. Feb. 12, 2003, after a pastorate at Peace “Some leadership is needed. If you raise the Mennonite Church in Richmond, B.C.— bar, people will rise to it.” right in the middle of the fledgling de- Eriksson says he leaves his post with nomination’s financial crisis. In an open gratitude, thankful for the privilege he has letter to members of the denomination had of connecting through ministry and written last month, Eriksson praised the friendship with pastors, church leaders leadership he observed in MC Canada dur- and ministry students. He is also thankful ing this crisis, likening it to the crew on a for his time working with the MC Canada ship weathering a storm. staff team. He says that his successor is “The thing that made our survival as a After five years as denominational min- “embracing a really wonderful challenge. denomination possible was the resolve of ister of Mennonite Church Canada, Sven They can expect to find a lot of joy in it, and the churches to do their best to save the Eriksson begins his retirement in eager an- they will have great companions in the staff ship,” Eriksson wrote. “You as a church ticipation of what God has in store for him. at MC Canada and on the general board.” assured us of your support and you gave MC Canada general secretary Robert J. faithfully and generously.” denomination, he recalls some challenges Suderman says Eriksson’s optimism, wis- Eriksson also mentioned the faithful that have embraced the length and breadth dom, humour and patience made him a leadership he observed by the general of MC Canada with its cultural and theo- true spiritual presence among staff and board and executive staff, who “took re- logical diversity. in the constituency. “He was not anxious sponsibility, made difficult decisions and “I enjoyed that challenge, but it was an about the ultimate destiny of the church,” guided the ship through the storm.” impossible task, almost,” Eriksson says, Suderman says. “He knew it was in good Just as he praised the way others handled noting that working with the area church hands, and he reminded us of that over and the situation, past and present MC Canada ministers was helpful. over again.” staff praise his contribution during that The diversity enriches the church, he says, Eriksson will begin his retirement with difficult time. and because Canada is becoming increas- a move back to B.C. with his wife Laura, He was instrumental in supporting ingly multicultural, the church will need to where he will spend a one-year sabbatical. people affected by the program changes continue to adapt if it is to survive. It will be a time for “reflection and reorien- that came as a result of the crisis, says Dan “It’s the call of the church to be welcom- tation,” Eriksson says, “at the end of which Nighswander, former general secretary of ing and hospitable to people of all cultures, we’ll see what God has in store, because MC Canada, and he planned and led sev- so if the church is missional and being what I don’t know—and it’s great that I don’t eral services of staff worship that helped to it’s supposed to be it will become more know. I’m excited.” l Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 29

Photo by Gerhard von Rosen Born to bridge Mennonite convert says Christ’s kingdom is about love to all Riad Klassen, left, co-founder By Amy Dueckman of Vancouver’s Opera B.C. Correspondent Appassionata, rehearses Vancouver, B.C. for Opera Fest with Argun Tekant. n her first day of classes in a ODamascus school run by Catholic nuns, young Riad Kassem El Rifai learned her first prayer, a French prayer she still uses: “Mon Dieu, je vous aime. Je vous offre mon travail. Aidez-moi à bien le faire.” (My God, I love you. I offer you my work. Help me do it well). as an opera and symphony conductor. Klassens have created Opera Appassionata, Loving God through her work with music The pair overcame obstacles, including a place where singers and musicians of all and drama in Vancouver is something a German bureaucracy that made it very ages can find a place to perform. “Opera that Riad, now a member of Sherbrooke difficult for a German-Parisian to marry a Appassionata is definitely a main focus in Mennonite Church, is still doing. The child Canadian. my life,” Riad says. of a Syrian Muslim father and a German Riad had been attracted to Canada since The Klassens’ goal with their opera com- Protestant mother, she was born in Paris. childhood. “God did not ask me if I would pany has been to focus on serving the com- Moving to Syria and attending a mainly like to marry a Mennonite. He just made munity with unique concerts and operas; Catholic school that also included Muslims some wonderful arrangements,” she says. they sometimes do fundraisers for char- began her international and interfaith view The two were married in 1999. itable organizations such as Mennonite of the world. When the couple moved to Vancouver, Central Committee, hospitals and seniors Each student at the school prayed the they first attended Frank’s home church, homes. same prayer, regardless of their religion, First United Mennonite. But nearby “I think this is where our faith plays a Riad recalls, noting, “This had a deep Sherbrooke Mennonite Church also role,” says Frank, artistic director for Opera influence on me. God is the same for all beckoned. As Riad tells it, “The transfer to Appassionata. “We and other artists have people.” Sherbrooke was compelling after God sent received our talents from God in order to Her life was always a mixture of cultures me a dream in which angels told me, ‘Go to share them with others.” and religions. By age 10, Riad considered Sherbrooke and get baptized.’” Riad now sees how the intercultur- herself a Christian and was reading the She followed the call to fully commit her al threads of her life have been woven Bible in French. At the same time, she life to Jesus. She was baptized in February together to bring her to the place she is was visiting mandatory Muslim classes at 2007 at Sherbrooke and the couple then today, having lived in several countries; school. “As a child I definitely felt blessed began attending there. Recently, she was been influenced by Catholics, Protestants to be able to choose my faith and still be hired as the church office administrative and Muslims; and having chosen to be a accepted and loved by my parents and my assistant. Mennonite Christian. Christian and Muslim friends,” she says. Riad realizes that some people have “In my adulthood I often chose not to When she was 13, she moved to Berlin. questions about her background in the join and to commit to a group or a com- In her German high school, she first dis- Muslim faith and what it means for her munity,” she says. “Not long ago I started covered her love for theatre, eventually Christian faith. “About a year ago, my not only to understand, but also to accept, studying at the School for Performing Arts pastor asked me if it is the same God that that God’s plan for me was in this pattern in Saarbrucken and landing a two-year con- Muslims and Christians believe in,” she of not belonging, that I was born to bridge, tract with the State Theatre. She realized says, adding, “There was never a doubt in to reach out and to show tolerance to those that acting was to become her life’s work my heart that, yes, there is only one God.” who are different than I and the people of and says, “Looking back, I know that this Both Frank and Riad have become my culture. I believe that Christ’s kingdom was part of God’s amazing plan of my life.” very involved in the music ministry at is about love, comfort and consolation to Through her theatre connections, Riad Sherbrooke, but have expanded their all, even to our enemies and to those who met her future husband, Frank Klassen of vision further. Drawing on their experi- do not adopt our views.” l Vancouver, who was working in Pforzheim ences in theatre and opera in Europe, the 30 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

PHOTO COURTESY OF OTTO KLASSEN Personal Reflection Every day our group looked forward to 4:30 p.m. That’s when Peter’s school bus Blessed to would drive down the street and stop in front of Dorothy’s trailer, close to where we worked. The scene was always the same: be a witness The bus door opened, and Peter ran out, shouting, “My house, my house! You’re By Otto Klassen Special to Canadian Mennonite building my house!” WINNIPEG I have been blessed to be a witness. Otto Klassen, second from right, was Friday came all too soon. The little home hen I reflect on a recent service “blessed to be a witness” with Mennonite near the centre of town stood as a symbol Wtrip, the refrain of a Ben Harper Disaster Service in Cameron, La., earlier of hope. Dorothy invited us to a feast of song comes to mind: “I am blessed, I am this year. shrimp and chicken gumbo—Cajun style. blessed to be a witness.” Little Peter hugged and high-fived all the I was one of 18 men from Douglas Peter survived, but in the story she shared volunteers. The people from the area had Mennonite Church in Winnipeg who with us. Peter is autistic, and Dorothy been a witness to faith in action. travelled to Cameron Parish, La., to vol- was told that he would likely never speak. And we had been blessed to be a unteer with Mennonite Disaster Service After Hurricane Rita, mother and son were witness. in January. Our congregation had already placed in group shelters along with hun- That evening, as the sun set on the responded to the need there by raising dreds of others. During that time, Peter Louisiana Bayou, I could picture God $15,000 for tools for the site. Now we were began to speak. The doctors couldn’t ex- jumping up and down, shouting back to ready to help rebuild homes destroyed by plain it, but Dorothy says, “A God who his children, “My house, my house. You’re Hurricane Rita in the fall of 2005. created a world that brings tremendous building my house.” l We framed, wired, installed windows storms gave my child words to speak.” and doors, shingled and prepared two I have been blessed to be a witness. Otto Klassen is an electrician by trade. This article was adapted from a report he gave at Winnipeg’s foundations. The people of Cameron were The piece of land we built Dorothy’s Douglas Mennonite Church annual general meeting witnesses to work being done in their com- home on was sold to her for less than half- in January. munity, but the following story is a witness price by an older couple in her area. The to God’s kingdom being built. material for the home was donated by a Holiday Travel [email protected] Dorothy is a shrimper. She spent long Catholic church group. We were assisted presents hot days on her boat to support her son in building Dorothy’s home by an enthusi- Peter and the tiny house they called home. astic group from AmeriCorps. “Where SOUTH AMERICA Home is Bayou country along the Gulf of are you all coming from?” she kept asking, Ecuador, Peru Mexico. Hurricane Rita crashed against the becoming emotional as she watched the Quito, Otovala, Cotopaxi, Cuenca shore, taking her house, boat and truck. progress. Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu The true miracle is not that Dorothy and I have been blessed to be a witness. October 29-November 14, 2008 Deadline deposit, August 15, 2008 ΛΛBriefly noted Historical Society awards Gerhard Ens its Award of Excellence EASTERN EUROPE Mennonite Heritage Ukraine ABBOTSFORD, B.C.—After spending most of his life in public service within the Historical Russia Canadian and Manitoba Mennonite communities, Gerhard Ens was honoured in Kiev, Mennonite Colonies, late January at the annual meeting of the Mennonite Historical Society of Canada. He received the Award of Excellence for his life-long advancement of Mennonite history Moscow, St Petersburg as a minister, teacher, editor, historical society/museum promoter, and German and May 18-June 5, 2009 Low German broadcaster. Ens was a founding member of the Manitoba Mennonite Deadline deposit, March 1, 2009 Historical Society in 1958 and sat on the board of the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum from 1958-2004. From 1972-2006, he produced a Low German radio broad- For tour details contact tour host: cast, airing more than 1,400 programs on three radio stations during that time. In 1977, he moved to Winnipeg and began editing Der Bote; as an ordained minister, he was Len Loeppky asked to become a lay minister at Winnipeg’s Sargent Avenue Mennonite Church, 14 Springwood Bay, Steinbach, MB, R5G 2E8 where he preached and taught the German Bible study group there for 30 years. [email protected] or 1-204-326-2613 —Mennonite Heritage Centre Release Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary w i A nM B S d o w 50 years in Elkhart Serving and learning in the community

lkhart, Indiana, has been Mentoring: Doing something now Ethe context for Associated Moriah Hurst Mennonite Biblical Seminary for 50 years. In 1958 Menno- n my second year of or math but I like to hang nite Biblical Seminary seminary I was chafing out with people, so I signed (MBS), a school of the Iat the bit to have some up. For half an hour each previous General Conference kind of involvement in the week since then, I spend Spring 2008 community around me. I time getting to know my Volume 18 Issue 2 Mennonite Church, moved was not content to only mentee. I have been from Chicago, Ill., to a new train for ministry; I wanted matched with two girls, one campus on the south edge of to be doing something now. in first grade and then one 2 Elkhart. That fall, AMBS But as a student I had little in second. Some weeks we Serving and learning in the began as a cooperative time. From a forum on work on their school work community (cont.) venture between MBS and campus I heard about a or play educational games. nearby Goshen Biblical program called CARES Other times we sit and 3 Seminary (GBS), a school of (Communities Actively draw, look through books or Welcome and tensions the previous Mennonite Relating to Elkhart Schools) tell each other what we Church. In 1969 GBS moved that places mentors along- have been doing. There is a side kids who need some rush of joy as I enter each Outreach in downtown from the Goshen College Elkhart help at school. classroom and am greeted campus to the Elkhart I am not good at spelling (continued on p. 2) 4 campus, and in 1993 President’s Window the two schools were Panorama incorporated as one seminary. This issue of AMBS Window explores the significance of Elkhart as home for the seminary. Through several vignettes, we will look at how experiences in Elkhart help prepare students for ministry and how the seminary makes contributions to the city where we live and work. — editor Mary E Mary Klassen AMBS student Moriah Hurst and Sharetta read a book together in the library at Roosevelt Elementary School, where Sharreta is a student. 2007–2008 Serving and learning in the community

Mentoring (continued from page 1) by my mentee grabbing my hand and hug- ging my leg along with a chorus of “Hello, Miss Moriah” from the rest of the class. I am not sure that the 30 to 40 minutes I spend at the school each week makes a huge difference. I do know that I can’t change the home environments of the kids in my neighborhood and yet am not content to just Moriah Hurst and Sharetta, the let it go at that. I am glad to be a helpful student she mentors adult and a friend in the life of a little person who might not always get affirmation. Beyond my weekly trips up the street to Roosevelt, I have a picture of my mentee and me on my refrigerator. As I walk by it every day I say a prayer for that little smiling face and the life she represents. Part-time job becomes ministry oe and Cara Pfeiffer are first-year stu- Moriah Hurst, a Master of Divinity student, Jdentsat AMBS who have found that their gives this glimpse into a program that began ten part-time work of substitute teaching is a years ago. Michele Hershberger, now a Bible form of ministry. professor at Hesston (Kan.) College, Hesston, Joe works two days a week and Cara Kan., began a mentoring effort when she was an three days a week, reporting where each has AMBS student and mentored a classmate of her been called for the day—one of 19 schools in daughter’s at another school near the campus. the Elkhart Community School district. Mentoring activities involve AMBS students Joe says, “Doing this as a seminary and employees in spending time with elementary student gives grounding. I’m asking, ‘How school students during class time and at lunch is what I’m learning going to affect these and playing games together before school begins people?’ It helps me think about how I will in the mornings. minister in the future.” Cara adds, “It’s definitely a stretching Assisting Habitat for Humanity exercise.” Substitute teaching provides “a presence of love” for the students and the ammers and saws—not only texbooks other teachers they encounter. Hand computers—can be tools for seminary learning. The AMBS Student Peace and Justice Committee sponsored an effort to assist with a Habitat for Humanity house in the neighborhood a half mile north of the campus on November 19. This effort was an !Explore will serve in Elkhart addendum to another hen 15 high school youth gather this project in 2005, when the Wsummer for !Explore: A Theological student committee took Program for High School Youth, the service on the task of funding component will involve them in the neigh- and organizing workers borhoods of Elkhart. Rather than going to for a Habitat building another city, such as Chicago or Miami (as in blitz. The earlier home- previous years), !Explore now will work Ted Koontz, professor of peace studies and ethics, and building project was with Elkhart churches and organizations. Samantha Lioi, AMBS student, cut baseboard trim for a located between Goshen Andy Brubacher Kaethler, !Explore director, Habitat for Humanity construction project. and Elkhart, so the fall says this will allow participants to more 2007 effort gave students fully integrate service with their worship and faculty an opportunity to work in their and theological exploration experiences. own neighborhood. Photos by Mary E Klassen

2 AMBS Window Spring 2008 1958–mid-1960s 1966–mid-1970s Welcome and tensions Outreach in downtown Elkhart n the early years, the relationship between AMBS and hen Leland Harder, professor IElkhart was an “interesting mix,” Erland Waltner says. Wat MBS and AMBS, used The Erland was president of Mennonite Biblical Seminary from Coffee House Ministry* for an the launch of AMBS in 1958 until 1978. evangelism course, his students Some snapshots: said, “Let’s do it!” • When Erland met the president of Elkhart’s First National So the coffee house called Bank, he had not said anything about funds when the bank Partly Dave began in downtown president handed him a check for $1,000. “It was a gesture Elkhart in 1966, a cooperative of welcoming that was more than words.,” Erland said. venture of AMBS, the Elkhart County Council of Churches • The contractor, Henry Knuck, employed workers—many and a number of congregations. of whom were Mennonites—who were not members of the Open on Friday, Saturday and AFL Carpenters Union, and the union protested with Sunday evenings until at least pickets to prevent delivery of materials. “At points it 1974, Partly Dave offered skits, looked like we would be done in,” Erland reported. In this live music, drug abuse semi- conflict, the seminary received support from civic leaders nars, a Japanese tea ceremony but not necessarily from workers in Elkhart. and, most of all, a safe place for conver- • In the early 1960s, the sale of a lot to an African-American sation for youth in the city. family created tensions. “We knew the sale would incite A high school senior was quoted in an article in the May opposition, but it was a witness on our part,” Erland said. 1967 Youth’s Christian Companion, saying, “A lot of kids come The Ku Klux Klan symbolized the opposition by burning in here that would normally be roaming the streets; here they crosses on lawns of both the seminary and the home built have a place to express ideas and to hear other ideas.” on the lot. A sophomore said, “No one really comes out and says, • The 1968 establishment of Church Community Services is ‘We’re going to talk about religion today.’ It just sort of the result of efforts led by C.J. Dyck, AMBS administrator sneaks up through programs.” and professor, Erland notes. CCS now involves more than The first paid manager was AMBS student David 50 churches in addressing needs for food and utilities and Schmidt. Subsequent managers included Dale Sudermann, in helping to empower women with job skills. now a professional counselor in Chicago; Robert Charles, until recently with Mennonite Mission Network; John Kampen, college dean and professor formerly with Bluffton University; and Lauren Friesen, drama professor who has taught at Goshen College. The staff were all volunteers from churches in the community. One waiter was an Elkhart judge who served coffee and doughnutes to his parolees. Leland, who taught at MBS and AMBS between 1955 and the mid 1980s, explained, “Partly Dave’s was one of the more successful seminary-related coffee houses and outlived 1958 most of them. I spent a fair amount of time at Party Dave’s on weekends, trying to practice what I was teaching in the evangelism course.” *The Coffee House Ministry by John D. Perry, Jr. (John Knox Press 1966)

Former faculty and students have shared reflections and memories of AMBS 50 years ago. Read these at

The Elkhart Truth Elkhart The Archive photo Archive www.ambs.edu/ The executive committee of the MBS board checks on the progress of aniversary-dedication. construction on the Elkhart campus, May 28, 1958: R.L. Hartzler, Erland

Waltner, J.N. Smucker, Henry Knuck (contractor), A.E. Kreider. from Reproduced

3 AMBS Window Spring 2008 President’s Window Alumni News

In The Way is Made by consumerism, militarism Artbeat s AMBS celebrates Walking (InterVarsity 2007), our fiftieth anniver- and individualism so Arthur Paul Boers (Master Asary, we are rethink- pervasive in the West. of Arts: Peace Studies 1983 ing the task of leadership Even as AMBS wel- and associate professor of formation. In the next half comes students and pastoral theology) shares century, AMBS will faculty from beyond the insights and experiences of prepare men and women Mennonite Church, we are walking the 500-mile Camino de Santiago. The book and for ministry and mission memory includes persecu- committed to remaining Arthur’s reflections on in a Western culture that tion, perseverance, bold Anabaptist. Our calling is increasingly looks like the to embody central aspects nurturing faith through testimony and resisting the pilgrimages like this have setting into which of an Anabaptist vision: a Powers. Mennonites garnered attention from biblically-ground people Priscilla, Aquila and recently have learned media, such as Canadian others first spoke the much from Catholics, Pen- who confess Christ as Broadcasting Corporation, gospel: a multi-religious tecostals, Evangelicals and Lord, worship God three- “100 Huntley Street” on a world in which Christians others. It is urgent that we in-one and follow Jesus in Canadian Christian television are a minority—sometimes also claim our spiritual a ministry of reconciliation network and the Toronto Star. a despised minority—with inheritance and bring forth in the world. Anabaptists little political power. the treasures of Anabap- emphasize discipleship, Vern Rempel (Master of Divinity 1986) completed a AMBS will be preparing tism for ourselves and the evangelism, community, Doctor of Ministry degree in leaders for witness from whole people of God. economic sharing, peace- the margins, for evange- making, service and preaching at Iliff School of We need leaders who Theology, June 2007. lism from a minority cherish the riches of this hospitality. Mennonites will most productively position and for church as stream of renewal, who Rachel Epp Miller (Master a community of alterna- have the courage to lead engage other traditions, of Divinity 2004) was ordained tive allegiance. the church into counter- and best meet the needs of on February 24. She serves the Being Anabaptist is a cultural ways of the a suffering world, if we San Antonio (Texas) Menno- gift, because ours is a long Kingdom of God. Other- claim our own strengths. nite Church. tradition of functioning at wise Mennonites will be — J. Nelson Kraybill the margins. Our spiritual swamped by the forces of Spring 2008 Volume 18 Issue 2 Panorama The purpose of AMBS Window is to invite readers to call people to leadership ministries, and to provide ways for readers to become involved with AMBS hen AMBS moved to Within three miles of Within 20 miles of AMBS: through financial support, prayer support WElkhart, it turned corn AMBS: • The University of Notre and student recruiting. and soybean fields into a 43- • Median income spans Dame and Goshen College Editor, designer, photographer: acre campus. Now the city $11,000 to $69,000. offer myriad music, sports Mary E. Klassen surrounds the campus, with • 46% of the residents in and cultural events. cultural, retail and civic some neighborhoods are • A stable economy is based Distributed three times a year as a resources nearby. AMBS’s African American. on manufacturing, supplement to Canadian Mennonite and setting now is reflected in • 31% of the residents in educational institutions The Mennonite. these statistics and details: some neighborhoods are and service agencies. Hispanic or Latino. • Diversity abounds, Elkhart population: 51,874 • Eight Mennonite churches including Amish, Elkhart median household have meeting houses Hispanic and Ukranian income: $34,863 where seminary students communities. Associated Languages spoken by worship and do intern- Mennonite students in Elkhart ships. Biblical schools: 30 • Elkhart hosts an annual Seminary jazz festival, an art museum, a symphony and a series of connecting city 3003 Benham Avenue Elkhart, IN 46517-1999 parks for recreation. 574 295-3726 www.ambs.edu 4 AMBS Window Spring 2008 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 35

Photo by Dave Rogalsky Artbeat induce crisis, chaos, or change, can be our greatest teachers. Difficulties disrupt our comfort zones and create openings for Visual prayers awareness, wisdom and compas- sion to emerge and grow. Artist Karen Thiessen “The ‘Shadow’ textiles were stretches Mennonite women’s born out of difficulty. Most of the experience with textiles materials started out as mistakes or failures—my own botched By Dave Rogalsky screen prints and dye jobs, quilt Eastern Canada Correspondent tops and even entire quilts whose Dundas, Ont. colour combinations didn’t work. The ‘Shadow’ series has been my Wearing her grandfather’s hat and her grandmother’s s Karen Thiessen puts it, her most own greatest teacher.” broach, part of her cycle of life, artist Karen Thiessen Arecent show, “Shadow,” is the conflu- Some of the works hung on poses with “Shadow: Hope No. 4.” ence of two quotes: the wall of her studio for years • “In a dark time, the eye begins to see” before they and God “told” her how they the Sunday before the terrorist attacks on (Theodore Roethke). needed to be reworked in order to become Sept. 11, 2001. Even in the darkness that • “I will give you the treasures of darkness, successful works of art in their own right. followed those acts of violence, God was riches stored in secret places” (Isaiah 45:3). Much like writers speak of fictional charac- present for Thiessen, and also through “Through this series I map the spiritual ters having minds of their own, Thiessen’s 2007, when she lost 11 significant people and psychological terrain of ‘difficulty’ works don’t allow her to force her will on in her life. Quoting from Kahlil Gibran’s through a topography of fabric, dye and them. The Prophet, she says, “ ‘Your pain is the thread,” Thiessen, a member of Hamilton She senses them as God flowing through breaking of the shell that encloses your (Ont.) Mennonite Church, says. “Those her. But this flowing is not all of joy and understanding.’ ” situations that challenge, disturb, that peace. In a world where people are increas- Using textiles, Thiessen follows ingly encouraged to distract themselves Mennonite women’s creativity, but these from the dark side of life, to “take a pill if are no simple pieced quilts; instead they you feel sad,” she believes people need to are “maps of the spirit and the soul,” with embrace the darkness, despair and grief holes, patches, and spiral embroidery, in- in their lives. And so the pieces have been viting the viewer to enter the cycle of life mistakes that Thiessen has reworked, re- with all of its experiences. used and transformed. The month-long show took place at The verse from Isaiah was the sermon the Carnegie Art Gallery in Dundas in reference at Hamilton Mennonite Church March. l

ΛΛBriefly noted ‘Reaching up to God our Creator’ Photo Contest Mennonite Church Canada Native Ministry and Mennonite Church Canada Christian Enter your photos on: Formation Council have developed a new aboriginal curriculum. Entitled “Reaching Caring for God’s creation, or up to God our Creator,” this resource will help aboriginal and non-aboriginal people Photo learn about sacred teachings that reflect the wisdom of Christ and develop respect Young adults in our churches and understanding for aboriginal culture. Send them to: With components for children and adults—DVDs, storybooks, posters, teaching [email protected], manuals and other resources—this curriculum is suitable for Sunday school classes, our Flickr photo pool Vacation Bible School and other group settings. or by postal mail. “Reaching up to God our Creator” is currently being audited by the Nootka First Details on prizes and judging are at our Nation on Vancouver Island, B.C., and a Grade 5 class at Winnipeg Mennonite website, canadianmennonite.org. Elementary School. Feedback from these groups will be used to fine-tune the re- source before its official launch this July. —Mennonite Church Canada Release 36 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

Uganda at Woodcliff United Church, RJC in concert at Osler Mennonite of Christ.” Visit cmu.ca/church- ΛΛCalendar Calgary, 7 p.m. Call 403-275-6935 for Church, 7:30 p.m. community/02_BelieversChurchConf. British Columbia more details. April 23: MEDA Connecting Faith and html for information. April 27: Lethbridge MCC ThriftS hop Business banquet at the Travelodge June 13-14: Winnipeg MCC Festival April 25-27: Junior Youth Impact volunteer appreciation event. hotel with Wally Kroeker from and Relief Sale. retreat at Camp Squeah. May 2-4: Alberta Women in Mission Marketplace magazine. May 4: Women’s Inspirational Day retreat at Camp Valaqua, “Relax, : Prairie Falcon motorcycle rally, at Eben-Ezer Mennonite Church, June 1 Ontario refresh, renew.” Contact evbuhr@awm. fundraiser for MCC. Abbotsford. April 20: Join Mark Diller Harder and mennonitechurch.ab.ca to register. June 1-3: Alban Seminar for pastors May 8: Communitas Supportive Menno Singers for “Evensong: A Vesper May 3: Edmonton MCC ThriftS hop and church leaders at Shekinah Retreat Care fundraiser dessert evening Hymn Fest (Easter and Pentecost)” at 5th anniversary celebration. Centre sponsored by MC Sask. with Ukrainian dancers and Dr. Floradale Mennonite Church, 7 p.m. May 3: Calgary MCC ThriftS hop June 13-14: MCC Relief Sale at Lucy Romanenkova from Ukraine April 21: New Hamburg Mennonite volunteer appreciation dinner. Prairieland Park. speaking at Bakerview MB Church, Relief Sale promotion dinner at May 9: Pre-workday youth event at Abbotsford, 7 p.m. Order tickets at Bingeman Park Lodge, Kitchener. Guest Camp Valaqua for senior high youth Manitoba CommunitasCare.com/store. speaker: Brandon Thiessen andM CC and sponsors, at 7 p.m. Bring overnight May 10: B.C. Mennonite Historical April 22: MCI fundraising concert/ Burundi. Order tickets at 519-745-8458 gear and work clothes. To register call Society, “Contributions of Der Bote and dessert evening at Bay Ave. Mennonite or 1-800-313-6226. Rita at 403-289-7172. Mennonitische Rundschau,” with Helen in Killarney, 7 p.m. April 24: Shalom Counselling May 10: Spring work day at Camp Franz and David Ewert at Eben-Ezer May 3: Women in Mission Enrichment Services Open House, 9 Avondale Valaqua. Call 403-637-2510 for Mennonite Church, 3 p.m. Day, “Oil for my Lamp,” at Crystal City Ave. S., Waterloo, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. with information. May 23-24: “Come to the Table,” Mennonite Church. dedication at 5:30 p.m. June 3-4: Theological studies event a worship and arts conference. May 14: Westgate work day. April 25-26: Engaged Workshop at Camp Valaqua with Bryan Moyer Speaker: John Bell of the Iona May 16-18: Camp Moose Lake work- at Living Water Fellowship, New Suderman; stewardship theme, “Our Community in Scotland. For details, a-thon. Hamburg. Contact Denise or Barry Money Talks,” designed for church e-mail Angelika Dawson at music@ May 16-18: Fundraising Ultimate Bender at [email protected]. leaders. To register call Doug Klassen emmanuelmennonite.com. Frisbee tournament at Camp April 25-26 and May 2-3: Rockway at 403-289-7172 or Jim Shantz at June 5: Mennonite Educational Assiniboia. Team registration by May 1 Mennonite Collegiate presents Disney’s 403-485-2518. Institute graduation. at Camp Assiniboia (204-864-2159) or “High School Musical.” For tickets call June 7: Camp Valaqua Hike-a-thon. Camps with Meaning (204-895-2267). 519-342-0007 ext. 3012. Call 403-637-2510. Alberta May 19-23: School of Writing at CMU. May 3: Menno Singers present “Partly May 23-25: Birding retreat at Camp English” at St. John the Evangelist April 26: MCC Peace Event featuring Saskatchewan Koinonia. Anglican Church, Kitchener; 8 p.m. UN human rights award winner and : CMU Chamber Choir and : The ChurchM ade Strange, Featuring works of Parry, Elgar and Oprah guest, Angelina Atyam of April 23 May 24 a symposium at CMU to mark the Vaughan Williams. retirement of Professor Harry Huebner. May 10: Shalom Counselling Λ Briefly noted More information at cmu.ca. fundraising breakfast and annual Λ May 24, 25: Faith and Life Choirs meeting featuring John Ruth at ‘Come to the Table’ conference on the spring concerts, TBA (24), Mennonite Crosshill Mennonite, 8:30-11 a.m. Order arts in worship planned for May Collegiate Institute (25). tickets at 519-886-9690 until May 5. May 26-28: Plus-55 Retreat at Camp May 10: Springfest at Niagara United ABBOTSFORD, B.C.—Coming together to worship God is Moose Lake. Mennonite Church with bake sale, like a feast, and everyone has something to contribute. This May 26-30: Youth Ministry Course at garden centre, barbecue, silent is the idea behind “Come to the Table,” the second conference CMU: Canada’s Teens—Sociological auction, kids’ stuff and live musical on the arts in worship, planned for May 23-24 at Emmanuel and TheologicalR eflections. entertainment, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mennonite Church. Special guest will be John Bell, ordained May 28: Westgate grades 10 to May 14: Spring Concert at Rockway minister in the Church of Scotland and a member of the Iona 12 spring concert, 7 p.m., at Bethel Mennonite Collegiate, 6:30 and 8:00 Community. He has an extensive background in the areas of Mennonite Church. p.m. church music and worship, and is primarily concerned with May 29: Westgate grades 7 to 9 spring May 22: MEDA breakfast at the Stone concert, 7 p.m., at Bethel Mennonite Crock, St. Jacobs, 7:30 a.m. Speaker: Dale the renewal of congregational worship at the grassroots level. Church. Bauman, VP Sales, MAX Canada. On the menu are Bell’s keynote addresses entitled “Theology May 31-June 1: Hope Mennonite May 24-25: 25th anniversary in the church’s song” on May 23 and “Stumbling blocks and Church 20th anniversary celebration of St. Clair O’Connor stepping stones” on May 24. Side dishes include workshops on celebration. For more information Community, Toronto. For more worship planning, liturgical worship, jazz in worship, and such contact 204-786-5077 or office@ information contact [email protected]. aspects of worship as the use of visuals, theatre, symbols and hopemennonite.ca. May 27-30: Quilts for the World at signs. Dessert will be a question-and-answer session with Bell. June 11-14: 16th annual Believers St. Jacobs Mennonite Church with For more information, contact Angelika Dawson at music@ Church Conference at CMU. guest artists Needle Sisters, Elmira, 10 emmanuelmennonite.com. Theme: “Congregationalism, a.m.-8:00 p.m. (27-29), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. —By Amy Dueckman denominationalism and the body (30). Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 37

May 30, 31: New Hamburg writers’ conference, for beginner Mennonite Relief Sale at New to professional writers in Guelph. Hague Mennonite Church is seeking a full-time YOUTH Hamburg fairgrounds. Visit nhmrs.com Visit www.thewordguild.com or call PASTOR to lead and disciple an active youth group of about 30. Hague, Sask., is a growing community located for more information. 519-886-4196 to register. 50 km north of Saskatoon. For a job description and con- June 3: Lebold Fundraising Banquet June 19: MEDA breakfast at the Stone tact information, go to www.134youth.com. with April Yamisaki at Conrad Grebel, Crock, St. Jacobs, 7:30 a.m. Speaker: 6:30 p.m. Dave Erb, president, Erb & Good Family June 4: Golf Tournament for Rockway Funeral Home. Mennonite Collegiate at Willow June 20-22: Zurich Mennonite Church Rockway Mennonite Collegiate invites applications for full Valley Golf Course, Mount Hope. Call 100th anniversary homecoming and part-time TEACHING POSITIONS in French (grade 7-10); German (grade 10-12) and Mathematics (grade 9 - 12). Teach- 519-342-0007 ext. 3011 for information. weekend celebrations. ing certi cation required. To inquire or apply, please forward June 7: Willowgrove Golf Tournament, a resume c/o Principal, Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, 110 To ensure timely publication of dinner and auction at Angus Glen Golf Doon Road, Kitchener, ON, N2G 3C8; Fax 519-743-5935; Email upcoming events, please send Course, Markham, 1:30 tee-off, best [email protected] Calendar announcements eight ball format. For information contact weeks in advance of the event 905-640-2127 or [email protected]. date by e-mail to calendar@ June 12-14: Write! Canada, Christian canadianmennonite.org. Stewardship Consultant Classifieds ΛΛ MFC seeks a full-time stewardship con- For Rent sultant to work in its Abbotsford, BC, For Rent: Sleepy Hollow Cot- For Rent: Basement suite in office. This person will be responsible to tage. All-season, 3-bedroom west Hamilton near university. home in a peaceful wooded Available Sept. 1. Female pre- provide charitable gift and estate planning services and to valley in the heart of the Niag- ferred. Call 905-627-4482 or e- promote biblical stewardship of financial resources in our ara region. Small retreat centre mail [email protected]. constituency churches in British Columbia. or family accommodations. Bruce Trail. Shaw Festival, Wine The successful candidate will: tours. Phone: 705-476-2319 or email: [email protected] • Communicate effectively with individuals and in public for complete brochure. presentations • Have a good understanding of charitable gift and estate Employment Opportunities planning • Be creative, organized, and self-motivated WE ARE: • Support and incorporate MFC’s stewardship mission in Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the personal life branches.” In a community surrounded by orchards and vineyards, we at Bethany live • Be willing and able to contribute as part of an inter- with the organic image of: dependent staff team.

The position will be open on July 1, 2008. Processing of This vision grows like different varieties of applications will begin immediately and continue until the fruit as we open our lives to spiritual gifts position is filled. Submit resumes to:

God has given us as a community of faith. Erwin Warkentin, General Manager Focusing on the love of Jesus we become 12-1325 Markham Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6 branches of God’s goodness for the 1-800-772-3257 fax: 204-488-1986 community and the world. e-mail: [email protected] www.mennofoundation.ca WE PRAY: For God to nudge a person, knowledgeable in and committed to the Anabaptist belief tradition, to join our Pastoral Team. As Associate Pastor their primary function will be to engage with the Advertising Information youth and young adults of the postmodern generation, both within the Congregation and in the community. Contact Canadian Mennonite

WE INVITE: Ad Representative All those whom God may nudge to call Ken Janzen at Karen Suderman 905-685-4537 (evenings), or email to his attention at [email protected], or write to his attention at 1-800-378-2524 x.224 Bethany Mennonite Church, Box 249, Virgil, Ontario L0S 1T0 519-745-4507 to learn full details. www.vaxxine.com/bethany [email protected] 38 Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008

Mount Royal Mennonite Church (Saskatoon, Sask.) is inviting applications for the position of HISPANIC PASTOR. The Mount Royal congregation is one of several Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches in Saskatoon. The person(s) in this full-time position will become part of a pastoral team and will assume responsibilities relating to ministry to a Colombian immigrant Hispanic group in a congregation of about 250 members. Ana- Ten Thousand Villages is Canada’s largest retailer of unique, baptist faith orientation and training and some previous pas- fairly traded products from around the world, with 50 loca- toral experience are strongly preferred. This person will speak, tions across the country. We are starting our search for a new read and write Spanish uently and have the skills, attitude, and Chief Executive O cer to help carry forward our mission to vision to bring a leadership role to working with Spanish-speak- provide vital, fair income to artisans in developing countries. ing new Canadians. Familiarity with Colombian culture would You will be highly skilled in managing people, nances and be an asset. Interested persons are invited to visit our website processes within a dynamic and complex retail environment. for a complete job description and to submit a resume to: As our organization continues to experience rapid growth, we oer committed professionals the distinct opportunity to MRMC Hispanic Ministry Search make a dierence through Fair Trade. 610 Avenue O North Saskatoon, Sask. S7L 2V3 As a program of Mennonite Central Committee, individuals Attn. Len Andres considering employment with Ten Thousand Villages Canada Email [email protected] should be able to exhibit a commitment to MCC’s core values. www.mount.sasktelwebsite.net This position is based out of New Hamburg, Ontario, Canada. Applicants are to respond by May 30, 2008. Start date is Interviews are likely to be held in late April – early May 2008. negotiable. For further information, contact Hazel Douglas at our recruit- ment consultants, Oxford HR, [email protected] and www.oxfordhr.co.uk

Mennonite Collegiate Institute Gretna, MB MCI is a provincially accredited independent Anabaptist Chris- tian high school (Gr. 9-12) and a member of Manitoba Federa- Mennonite Collegiate Institute tion of Independent Schools & Canadian Association of Men- Gretna, MB nonite Schools. MCI emphasizes a strong academic program leading toward post-secondary studies, excellent athletic & MCI is a provincially accredited independent Anabaptist Chris- ne arts programs and a residence program for approximately tian high school (Gr. 9-12) and a member of Manitoba Federa- half of the student body. tion of Independent Schools & Canadian Association of Men- nonite Schools. MCI emphasizes a strong academic program MCI invites applications for a COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR leading toward post-secondary studies, excellent athletic & for immediate hiring. ne arts programs and a residence program for approximately The Communications Director will be responsible for the de- half of the student body. velopment, presentation and circulation of communication MCI invites applicants for the following positions in September ’08: media including website & electronic media, print and radio news or advertising, school event & programming news for an 1. FULL TIME TEACHER (term Sept. ’08 through June ‘09) internal audience of students and parents, as well as an exter- with duties in content areas which may include English, Reli- nal audience of constituent churches & the public. Develop- gious Studies, Biology and junior Science. Ability to contribute ment of a broad referral network for admissions/enrolment to co-curricular programs is an asset. purposes will also be central to the position. 2. Full-time positions (male & female) on RESIDENCE STAFF The candidate will possess organizational, marketing and com- team. This is a 6 member team whose duties include pro- munications skills, and will be comfortable as an ambassador gramming & supervision of resident students, student leader- for the school in large & small group settings. The candidate ship development, personal mentoring & other co-curricular will possess pro cient oral and written communicator skills. involvement including athletics & ne arts. Experience and Post secondary degree, training or experience in marketing training in youth ministry is an asset. and/or communications would be an asset. All candidates must have an active faith & declare commitment All candidates must have an active faith & declare commitment to the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective. to the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective. To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to: To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to: Darryl Loewen, Principal Darryl Loewen, Principal Mennonite Collegiate Institute Mennonite Collegiate Institute Box 250 Box 250 Gretna, MB Gretna, MB R0G 0V0 R0G 0V0 [email protected] [email protected] Canadian Mennonite April 14, 2008 39

Executive Director. Menno-Hof in Shipshewana, Indiana, is Connexus (Korea Anabaptist Center ministry in Seoul) seeks a vibrant Amish/Mennonite interpretive center celebrating ENGLISH CONVERSATION TEACHERS 20 years of successful operation. Looking for an EXECUTIVE Opportunity for Christians with university degrees to learn, DIRECTOR to exhibit creativity and work with the board of serve, teach, travel, earn and make friends! For more informa- directors to expand and refine vision for the future. Desired tion, visit www.connexus.co.kr/english. qualifications: strong knowledge of the Anabaptist faith tradition; ability to communicate issues of faith and culture passionately. Complete job description at www.menno- hof.org. Send resumes or inquiries to Leanne Farmwald c/o YOUTH PASTOR Menno-Hof, 510 S Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565 or Poole Mennonite Church, an active congregation with average [email protected]. attendance of about 170, is seeking a half-time youth pastor. We are a well-established, family friendly, rural congregation about 40 minutes from Kitchener/Waterloo, with an energetic youth program that has emphasized service and organized FULL TIME ASSOCIATE PASTOR MDS service trips to the gulf coast the past 3 years. Trinity Mennonite Church is located in the rolling foothills of See our website at www2.cyg.net/~poolemen/ for a job the Rocky Mountains between Calgary and Okotoks, Alta. We description. Interested applicants please contact: are a growing congregation with a current membership of 104 believers. The successful candidate will profess an Anabaptist Muriel Bechtel, Mennonite faith and willingness to learn and grow under the MCEC Conference Minister mentorship of the Lead Pastor and through congregationally [email protected] supported formal education opportunities. We are active mem- 1-800-206-9356 bers of MC Canada and MC Alberta. Please apply to: Associate Pastoral Search Committee, C/O Search Committee Chair PO Box 48082, Midlake PO Calgary, AB T2X 3C7 http://trinity.mennonitechurch.ab.ca/ Email: [email protected] GRAPHIC DESIGNER Canadian Mennonite is seeking a half-time Graphic Designer for our national church magazine. A resume, design samples Mennonite Central Committee Saskatchewan and references should be submitted by May 12, 2008. The sal- Board invites applications for the position of ary scale, bene ts, and a full job description are available on EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. request. The position begins in June. MCCS serves in Saskatchewan and engages people Duties include issue design and layout using our established and resources from the province in the ministries design templates, helping solicit and select artwork, creating of MCC around the world to provide relief, to promote commun- and placing ads, troubleshooting any ad or print problems, ity development, and to pursue peace and justice in the name of and online distribution of issue contents on our website and by Christ. e-mail. Applicants should have good skills in electronic page design using Adobe InDesign, in image editing using Adobe The Executive Director is to lead the organization in such a way Photoshop, in prepress issues (using a cold-set web press) and that, as people come together for this work, they are drawn into in basic HTML. Some training is available to get applicants up the passion and hope represented by the church of Jesus Christ to speed in unfamiliar areas if needed. and become actively engaged in its ministry. It is a full-time pos- ition with a three year renewable term. The start date is negoti- Location is preferably at our Waterloo oce, but we will also able. consider remote arrangements. However, the designer needs to be reachable during business hours of production days to The Board is seeking an individual who exhibits a commitment to work with sta on the layout. The standard Graphic Designer a personal Christian faith, active church membership and nonviol- work schedule is ve days on followed by ve days o. ent peacemaking. Additionally, the person should have 5+ years in an organizational leadership position and a university graduate Applicants should have a passion for the church and for Can- degree (or undergraduate degree and related life experience). adian Mennonite’s ministry and mission. Come to serve and build up the church in this exciting way! The successful applicant will be a humble servant-leader with proven ability to lead MCCS in planning, program development, Direct inquiries and applications to: public communications and resource generation in close collab- Tim Miller Dyck, Editor/Publisher, Canadian Mennonite oration with the Board, sta , partners, volunteers and supporting 490 Dutton Dr., Unit C5, Waterloo, ON N2L 6H7 constituency. Phone: 1-800-378-2524, ext. 225 E-mail: [email protected] A full position description is available at www.mcc.org or upon request. Applications will be accepted until May 30, 2008. Send a letter of application along with a resume outlining how you meet the Upcoming Advertising Dates MCCS faith criteria and qualications for the position to: Issue Date Ads Due John Elias, Chair MCC Saskatchewan Search Committee May 12 April 29 600 - 45th Street West Saskatoon, SK S7L 5W9 Focus on Fair Trade or email to: [email protected] May 26 may 13 . . . from the least of us Prayer for the least of these Children Children and “night commuters”—makeas young adults—known their nocturnal march Resistance Army, Resistance war which - civil against the waging been a has govern two-decade-long ment using mostly child Thesoldiers. night commuters sleep in inshelters, doorways— into a protected town in northern Uganda, to escape possible to into in capture escape town by a Uganda, northern theprotected Lord’s or in the open—then they make their way back to their rural . homes and . schools. Grant us the strength, O God, to pray, longago: Grant so the us strength,OGod, Zechariah with “ni until the sun night, whensets tomorrow they will do it all over again. Compassionate and gracious God, in these days ofdarkness, inthese God, Compassionate andgracious g when the forces of destruction are unleashed inthe world, arewhen theunleashed forces ofdestruction We placeandafflicted into allwhoare yourcare affected ht c we come to you, not knowing what else we can do whatwe come wecan else to you,notknowing omm to guide ourinto feet thewayto guide ofpeace.” Amen. the dawn from onhigh from upon us, break will the dawn to give light whoto give those sit in darkness but throw ourselves upon your mercy.but throw upon ourselves u ters ters those who are wounded, orphaned, whoare wounded, those “By the tender mercy ofour“By God, thetendermercy and in theshadow ofdeath, N homeless, hungry, dying. homeless, by war andoppression— by war o. 1: sa those whoare fighting, those Mary H. 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