Courier Correo Courrier

October 2020 Volume 35, Number 2

3 Perspectives COVID-19 in the Global South 8 Ambitious dreams for a more just world 11 Assembly Update Youth delegate becomes workshop organizer 13 Country profile Nepal 17 Resources • MWC charts course for future operations • Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday • YABs Committee • Renewal 2027 • President’s column

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Cover Photo: Fragility and resilience “Most of my paintings When the last Courier went out, the pandemic had just begun to these days are inspired shut down the world. Mennonite World Conference’s Executive by nature. During Committee meetings were cancelled alongside the Renewal 2027 this quarantine time, I realized how much event to be celebrated in Canada. space nature actually Now, we have spent more than half a year in the uncertainty of took in my life. Also, in pandemic living. Around the world, it has meant anything from the nature I can always see inconvenience of home confinement to the utter devastation of the wonder of God’s losing all sources of income and even losing loved ones. For almost creation.” all our members it meant – at least for a time – the suspension of in-person church Illustration: Mia Handojo, Gereja services. Kristen Muria Indonesia (GKMI) Our much-anticipated global Assembly has also been affected by the pandemic. The Semarang, Indonesia Executive Committee decided, with counsel from the National Advisory Committee in Indonesia, to postpone our gathering until 2022 (see page 17). The time of year and place of gathering remain the same. Adjust your calendars and keep planning to meet brothers and sisters worldwide at Assembly – in 2022. (Read more on page 11-12.) In this issue of Courier, pastors from Africa and Latin America share about how their Volume 35, Number 2 churches have been affected by the pandemic: what lessons are we learning and what new practices will we continue? (see page 3-6). Courier/Correo/Courrier is a publication of Mennonite World Conference. It is published twice Nindyo Sasongko, a pastor from Indonesia, shares a pandemic practice worth keeping: a year, containing inspirational essays, study and the vlog and podcast he started with friends has gained a large audience and become a teaching documents and feature-length articles. spiritually nourishing place of faith development for producers and listeners – including Each edition is published in English, Spanish and people from other faiths (page 10). French. The pandemic’s shutdowns resulted in some good news on the climate crisis. Smog in César García Publisher some major cities was reduced such that citizens were able to see blue skies and nearby Elina Ciptadi Perkins Interim Communications Officer geographic features for the first time in decades. On the other hand, disposal of single- Karla Braun Editor use plastics is at an all-time high. MWC Creation Care Task Force member Sibonokuhle Yosephine Sulistyorini Designer Ncube considers what she has learned about this urgent situation from her work in Sylvie Gudin Koehn French Translator Zimbabwe and now as a theology student in the USA (page 8-9). Rick Derksen French Translator Diana Cruz Spanish Translator And two pastors from France reflect on holding funerals in a time of social distancing Beatriz Foth Spanish Translator (page 7). Marion Meyer English Translator Louise Nussbaumer French Proofreader The pandemic is teaching people about interconnectedness, fragility and potential Marisa Miller Spanish Proofreader resilience of communities. Eunice Miller Spanish Proofreader In May, MWC gathered a task force representing member mission and development Courier/Correo/Courrier is available on request. organizations to guide our communal response to needs within our body. In another Send all correspondence to: form of response, we began a bimonthly Online Prayer Hour: a time to hear each other’s Courier, 50 Kent Avenue, Suite 206, Kitchener, struggles and gather together before our Lord. Ontario N2G 3R1 Canada. The pandemic challenges us to question how we do everything from shopping to going Email: [email protected] to church. We use the term “the new normal” as we talk about how we are living now and Website: www.mwc-cmm.org in the future. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ MennoniteWorldConference Yet, amid all that has changed, our convictions have not. God is creator even of Twitter: @mwcmm the virus; the Holy Spirit walks with us in our pain and grief; and the body of Christ Instagram: @mwcmm encourages us even from a distance. The pandemic has changed many things, but it has Scripture quotations are from the New Revised not changed who we follow: Jesus Christ, our hope. Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United Karla Braun is editor of Courier and writer for Mennonite World Conference. She lives in States of America. Used by permission. All rights Winnipeg, Canada. reserved.

Courier is interested in your contributions. An upcoming issue will look at how we engage Courier/Correo/Courrier (ISSN 1041-4436) is published twice a year. See https://www.mwc-cmm.org/article/ with religious traditions outside of Christianity. Do you have drawings, paintings, sculpture courier for publication schedule history. or photographs that depict interreligious dialogue? Submit your artwork/graphic art to [email protected] for consideration for use in Courier. Please ensure images are Mennonite World Conference, Ave. Calle 32#14-42, Piso 1, Bogota, Colombia full resolution. Include artist’s name and local church. Include a short description of the Publication Office: Courier, 50 Kent Avenue, Suite 206, artwork. Kitchener, Ontario N2G 3R1 Canada. T: (519) 571-0060

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Respondents

Bryn M Maphosa, national overseer, Brethren In Christ COVID-19 in the Church, South Africa Global South Clement Ndlovu, pastor, Brethren In Christ Church, Krugersdorp branch, We collected voices from around the South Africa world on the church in the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Alba and David Irala, See sidebar for respondent bios. youth pastors, Iglesia Cristiana de la Paz, Mennoite Brethren church, Asuncion, Paraguay

ow are we learning new ways members. A new way of doing things was to do church due to pandemic to call Christians regularly by phone to restrictions? show them that the leaders were thinking Francis Kamoto, bishop, BIC of them,” says Siaka Traoré. Church, Zimbabwe “Now more than ever, various “Throughout the entire lockdown we Hforms of technology have taken on were able to use many forms of technology an active role. They have become key to keep the youth meetings going and to keeping the church together and connect with the youth’s different realities,” in fellowship,” say Sergio and Paula say Sergio and Paula Mendoza. Mendoza. Even with the struggles, God is at work. Siaka Traoré Traoré, pastor, However, ongoing disparities are Eglise Evangelique Mennonite highlighted. “The church community has “Church work is more effective outside du Burkina Faso been hit by possibilities of leaving others the four-walled structures as opposed to behind – especially those who have the modern way of conducting everything been slow to embrace technology,” says inside church buildings,” says Okoth Clement Ndlovu. Simon Onyango. Nevertheless, congregations have found “Really, the changes that we have Sergio and Paula Mendoza, means to reach their members. experienced during this time as a church youth pastors, Sinai Mennonite “In some areas, people have been have taken us beyond our comfort zone,” Brethren Church, San Lorenzo, say Alba and David Irala. “However, Paraguay encouraged to seek God individually on mountain tops and in their homes. Other technology enabled us to create new people have been encouraged by radio spaces with more sharing and participation and TV programs to seek God more than than before. Through this we could see before,” says Nkunda John Bosco. God using the difficulties and uncertainty to speak to us and affirm us in our faith. At Nkunda John Bosco, pastor, “At the most, our Mennonite churches Mennonite Church Uganda the same time, we were able to strengthen used WhatsApp to communicate with our ties as a group.”

Bishop Okoth Simon Onyango, Sibonokuhle Ncube, theology student, Mennonite Church Uganda BIC Church Zimbabwe

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Like many churches, Mennonite young adults in Ecuador celebrated YABs Fellowship Week on Zoom during the pandemic. Photo: courtesy of Consejo Juvenil Menonita Ecuador

“We are learning to truly be a church; one click’ converts the space for fellowship technological connection. However, “virtual one that is not defined by a physical space and living out our faith among fellow worship has opened the church beyond but one body present in various places as believers into just one more option on the her catchment areas.” we pursue the same goals and follow the menu of entertainment that the world offers “It’s tough to measure growth especially same Jesus,” say Alba and David Irala. us via digital platforms,” says Sergio and spiritually, however the time itself we find Paula Mendoza. ourselves in has sensitised the masses of What are the theological challenges of Yet, “with or without technology, Jesus the importance and value of life. We see reliance on technology? Christ is our HOPE,” says Okoth Simon people seeking divine intervention more Onyango. now, both believers and non-believers. In terms of reach, we have gone beyond “There are some still in our communities “The question at the beginning was how the norm; able to reach more people who have no access to modern technol- we could share the Lord’s Supper. Now we numerically and globally,” says Bryn M ogy. In our rural areas, electricity is not see that rather than be an insurmountable Maphosa. accessible and television sets cannot be problem, sharing the communion used either. So reliance on technology symbolized in the Lord’s Supper breaks “For certain Christians, it was a period of made the church’s work harder in some down barriers and makes us one. We have slackening, because there were no longer areas during the pandemic,” says Okoth found peace as we have been faithful to regular and official activities at the church: Simon Onyango who walks many miles to this command despite the separation. In a a time of spiritual sleep. On the other hand, stay in touch with church members. sense, the distance has strengthened our for a number of Christians this pandemic was a sign of the end times and so some The variety of options is also a theological and Biblical concepts,” say put their lives in order,” says Siaka Traoré. challenge. Alba and David Irala. Yet the Holy Spirit is working, compelling “I think our theological foundations have even those who are not known evangelists been shaken due to a great exposure to How has the church grown in this time? to share about God with their neighbours. many teachings made available,” says “As I walked a long stretch three days a Clement Ndlovu. Clement Ndlovu mourns the church’s lost spiritual influence on those without week for two consecutive months, I met “In a way, being able to meet via ‘just other people also walking, and the subject

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CCC-35.2-2020-EN.indd 4 10/1/2020 2:48:07 AM “This period presents us not the only way. Our spiritual acts are not But the hygiene practices are welcome meant for public show,” says Okoth Simon to stay. with a number of lessons. Onyango. ”They not only help with caring for The church has to learn “‘How good and pleasant it is when ourselves, they also help us to care for brothers live together in unity!’ (Psalm others,” say Alba and David Irala. to be intentional in her 133:1) ‘Let us not give up meeting “Hygiene practices protect us against fellowship activities. together’” (Hebrews 10:25). We are used to many germs that we transmit from one this kind of worship, but the Bible is also to another. If we continue to wear masks The church’s teachings encouraging us to have our prayers on our in our context here, it protects us against own because we are the temple of God dust and smoke pollution,” says Siaka have to prepare the and the Holy Spirit dwells in us,” Francis Traoré. membership how to Kamoto. He worries, however, about social “Adults and youth alike are eager to see distancing’s impact on “African socio- be the light and salt in one another soon. Even so, we know that cultural values. African society expresses difficult times. Learn the it is necessary to respect the rules and itself through relationships concretely, not we have found that our community is truly virtually. In church, fraternal warmth is art of physical and virtual united,” say Alba and David Irala. expressed through physical contact.” fellowship preparedness,” “It is possible to be in a shared space “This period presents us with a number without a shared attitude. But now of lessons. The church has to learn to be says Clement Ndlovu. we are apart while we pay attention intentional in her fellowship activities. The to one another’s needs and maintain church’s teachings have to prepare the constant contact through calls and online membership how to be the light and salt meetings,” say Alba and David Irala. in difficult times. Learn the art of physical of discussion was ever the same – ‘May The distance forced by isolation or and virtual fellowship preparedness,” says God help us and remove this virus that has lockdown has reinforced what it means Clement Ndlovu. brought this suffering,’” says Okoth Simon to be the church: “We encourage and Onyango. “Evangelism is at its peak: each “Without a doubt, the pandemic has had exhort one another to be conscious of one was encouraging the other to believe positive effects too. It has challenged our the situations that our own members are in God the Almighty for a supernatural act.” definition of what it means to be church. facing as well as the people around us. Many thought of church as a physical “The growth that we have seen has We see their need and look for ways to space; now, however, our definition has been in quality. The quality is reflected in meet it. Through these actions we reflect deepened. We understand that being our attitudes toward the needs that have the love of Christ and also demonstrate united and looking out for the needs arisen. Brothers and sisters in the faith that we are believers who are committed of others through prayer and constant have responded to this pandemic through to our community,” say Sergio and Paula communication, then we are truly united acts of service, and a new opportunity to Mendoza. and acting as a true church,” say Alba and serve our community has arisen,” say Alba David Irala. and David Irala. These changes: which do we hope “What I hope will be permanent: the are temporary? Which do we hope will requirement to be flexible when the need What does it mean to be a group of remain after life goes “back to normal”? arises. The use of multimedia platforms is believers “centred on community” when a great tool to be perfected to increase our we cannot gather in person? “Without a doubt, we anxiously wait for global reach with the gospel,” says Bryn M the recommendation to keep our distance Maphosa. “It demands that we think out of the box to be lifted. When that happens we will “I’ve been challenged to think more to still further our mission. The group of be able to hug again and show affection about the beauty of humanity, this idea of believers still needs to be seen and heard that is such a part of how we relate as community cohesion. Look out for those one way or another as it is the heart of the believers. We especially desire the lifting of who are low on resources. Go out to help,” community,” says Bryn M Maphosa. the restriction on meeting in churches so says Sibonokuhle Ncube. “The practice of Christianity can only that once again we can worship together “The church continues in spite of the be done by reaching out to others. Our as the body of Christ,” say Sergio and circumstances. We continue to practice Christian life is real when we are in Paula Mendoza. ‘being church’ now more than ever. We community; however, gathering in person is

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are discovering that it is not the place that defines us,” say Alba and David Irala.

How has this time challenged us to rethink how we used to live? What lessons does this period hold for us?

“I think this has helped me to be flexible in doing things. Sometime we take things for granted that we do things in this way. We can worship God at any place at any time,” says Francis Kamoto. “The church must not lose its relevance and favour in such a time as this. The church needs to adhere to the laws of the land. The church needs to have plenty of resources to intervene in the lives of its congregants and community where needs are identified. Innovation and change management are critical strategic elements Gereja Kristen Muria Indonesia (GKMI) Pastor Tapas Dey and his wife Ratna of to incorporate in our running of God’s Anugerah, in Jakarta, Indonesia, installed Grace Community Church, a Bharatiya Jukta business,” says Bryn M Maphosa. handwashing stations outside their church Christa Prachar Mandli (Mennonite) church “This period has shown us the fragility building. in Kolkata, India, were able to collect and distribute flooding aid in their neighbourhood of our medical, economic and even our Photo: courtesy of GKMI Anugerah governance systems. This pandemic despite the pandemic. has confirmed the idea that the world depend entirely on the Lord. After all, this Photo: courtesy of Cynthia Peacock is a global family, because a disease is our greatest wealth and hope in this that started at one place on earth was world,” say Sergio and Paula Mendoza. propagated throughout the entire planet,” “We believe that this situation has says Siaka Traoré. helped us to think better about life as a But it has demonstrated our capacity whole; about relationships, service, the for solidarity amid fragility. “All sectors economy and health. The pandemic has of society brought financial and in kind shown us that we cannot go back to the contributions to combat the coronavirus way things were. Rather, we need a new pandemic. We discovered an internal normal where we take a more prudent and potential of local resources that allow for wise view of things; where we understand common actions,” says Siaka Traoré. the importance of being church, of being a body that lives with wisdom and true unity “It has been a good contribution regardless of where we are,” say Alba and from the pandemic to say ‘be aware David Irala. of yourself and those around you and be safe for them,’” says Sibonokuhle Ncube. Physical distance is a reminder to Instead of being a great leveller, the COVID-19 “maintain distance from unhealthy things in pandemic is exposing pre-existing systemic inequalities that benefit some and disadvantage interpersonal relationships too.” others. How is the Anabaptist family responding? “We have been obliged to comply with Mennonite World Conference has invited Anabaptist the norms established for the common mission and service agencies to coordinate their financial response to COVID-19 hardships well-being, and through our exemplary experienced especially by under-resourced member behaviour we reflect the teachings of Christ churches around the world. Bishops and other church leaders in where we are in our society. As a church Learn more here we have seen the hand of God guiding us Zimbabwe prayed before distributing bags

through the difficulties. We must come to of rice, cooking oil, and sugar beans. “It was a great time of sharing the Word of God to the community people,” says Bishop Sindah Ngulube of Brethren in Christ Church Zimbabwe. Photo: Sindah Ngulube

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by Luc Nussbaumer, Philippe Figuière “We had never prayed so much and for so orders to follow and the distancing rules to many people before this!” respect, being able to listen to each other new solidarity, Another group for parents and children sing and praise together and to greet each different ways was created on WhatsApp to assist other has become a real luxury. Having Our Mennonite community of families in schooling their children – with said this, it is still not easy for everyone to Pfastatt, France, is located five daily life in confinement – and to suggest return to worship. minutes from a megachurch ideas for biblical teaching and organized This is a new challenge for leaders. A activities. Many took advantage of this. Customs, format, teaching children – all of that was one of the most significant centers of the COVID-19 epidemic at the In spite of the situation, a week of prayer this requires new inventions. time of a week of fasting and prayer in their and fasting was held via a daily guide sent Our assurance is that God is never facilities. For a long time, they were unfairly out by email. Some communicated their taken by surprise and the coming of God’s accused of having provoked the largest lived experience through the prayer chain Kingdom has never been so relevant. propagation of the virus in France. The group. Together, we were able to closely follow the evolving health of one of the Philippe Figuière is pastor and member of the elders mistrust of government officials with regard and deacons of the Mennonite Evangelical Church of to Protestant churches continues. elderly members of our assembly who Pfastatt, France. was seriously ill with the coronavirus. We A totally new situation were able to observe the events leading to that person regaining health and rejoining ouched by testimony Like everyone else, we were surprised and family. disconcerted by the shelter-in-place order Our church (Birkenhof) is located of the government. It was an unknown 30 kilometers from Mulhouse, situation for which we had no reference Church members said France, and we experienced four point. T deaths from COVID-19 before The church immediately felt the need to me: “We had never August. Three of them were between 75 to preserve bonds within our community, prayed so much and for and 80 years old and one was 86. The especially for isolated persons who were burials took place outside the church or not connected to the internet. It was so many people before in the cemetery with a limited number of necessary to find new ways to support and people. nourish community members spiritually. this!” Accompanying grieving families in such As a pastor, I needed to learn to provide circumstances is unusual. The absence of members of the extended family, the pastoral care and teach people individually The pain of grieving by phone or the internet. The fact that I church, friends, and neighbors, as well I officiated at two burials of people who was following up with recently converted as a ceremony with a reduced format is died from COVID-19 during this time. The young people was all the more reason to a painful experience for those who are number of people authorized to attend do this, since I had to wait for the shelter- stricken by this ordeal. It isn’t possible was limited to a maximum of 25 and the in-place orders to be lifted before we could for them to experience grief in normal time was limited to 30 minutes outdoors meet in person. conditions and as a consequence, the at the cemetery. Certain family members In order to be available and effective separation is even more difficult. were not able to come, making the sharing at each moment, the elders and deacons Gathering news, making phone calls, of emotions and expression of grief met every week via video conference. We sending messages, expressing affection particularly difficult. organized ourselves to gather everyone’s and supporting persons in mourning are People learned a new kind of solidarity, news by sharing contacts, to offer biblical very important. different ways to support each other. Some meditations each week via email or regular On two occasions, the burial services were led, in their solitude, to rediscover a mail, and to encourage and nourish each were filmed and made available to those personal relationship with God. They were person. During this time, some suffered who were not able to attend. We were also led to renew family worship times that from anxiety and depression, while others amazed by the number of views of one of they had not held for a while, times that did not, but the feelings of unease were these videos. Although we are an assembly had been missed. strange and previously unknown. of 130 members, the burial service of one At the beginning, Sunday worship via member had registered 785 views before “We had never prayed so much Zoom or YouTube were like a breath of August. We venture to believe that a non- before this” fresh air. Seeing the faces of brothers and Christian public was also touched by the sisters gathered together and hearing their testimony of the deceased brother. A church member set up a prayer chain voices was a source of joy. on WhatsApp, proving itself to be very Nothing, however, replaces a true effective. Church members said to me: Luc Nussbaumer is pastor of the Mennonite in-person gathering. Even with all of the Evangelical Church of Birkenhof, France.

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Zimbabwe Ambitious dreams for a more just world

by Sibonokuhle Ncube

t started from small ambitions “There is good value the Paris climate agreement in 2016. Some of a little heart,” says of the world powers’ commitments made Sibonokuhle Ncubenokuhle in not speaking from a there have not been upheld. Nevertheless, Ncube. As a child of 10 in polarized perspective one “I have chosen to stand on the side of Zimbabwe, “hearing that my hope and be acting from the bottom.” “Iparents couldn’t ever send enough money that has an us and them. “Our approach to working on climate to help [my relatives] because whole village I tried to come from a response should be as concerted, was hungry, I got ambitious in my dreams. coordinated, urgent and inter-generational When I grow up, I will be helpful.” space to talk about us as the attention we gave to HIV and AIDs,” In both rural and urban Zimbabwe, the she says. majority of households grow some of their and we. I also look at own food. Changes in climate patterns things generationally. An us perspective are apparent to everyone. The droughts For a deep and meaningful climate used to come every 10 years, then every Science shows us response, “we need to come to a round five. “Now the droughts are back to back, the climate has been table as big as the earth’s circumference. across seasons. We are keenly aware of We’re affected as humanity,” Sibonokuhle that,” she says. changing from many Ncube says. Add in a global pandemic, and the years ago.” “There is good value in not speaking situation is even more critical. from a polarized perspective one that has an us and them. I tried to come from a Church leadership in community space to talk about us and we. I also look As with issues surrounding the coronavirus, but a broad sharing of life skills,” she adds. at things generationally. Science shows us the reasons for climate change are not For example, the church can promote the climate has been changing from many always understood, says Sibonokuhle ecological regeneration of common lands years ago.” Ncube, and are often politicized. Political (caring for local forests, shared paddocks) in their community. “I love to come from an embodied divisions result in actions that cause real systems worldview where I ask all of harm. Misgovernance and politicization us living now to view ourselves as Hope comes from action of development can also affect how aid beneficiaries of the carbon age. If we look High level action is needed for climate and resources flow from one region to at stages of development, we are existing response. In every age, there are issues another. “Apart from structural issues, as offspring of humans who lived in ages that “call upon people of faith to truly walk [in Zimbabwe], we had civil unrest; past. I invite communities to think about in radical acts of discipleship. Climate structural, cultural and physical violence; what we can do to change some of the response is one of those for us today. We displacement.” ways we do development and economics. need a prophetic stance against the forces Her studies and vocation have focused Corporate thinking unlocks resources, that reproduce marginality. on development, peacemaking and climate participation.” finance governance in Zimbabwe where “A vibrant climate response is multilevel. she has worked with government, NGO On the policy side: speak to people in Exercising global stewardship and faith-based agencies and INGOs. power. Make financial provisions for She also calls people of faith to consider Targeting rural poverty via agricultural innovation, mitigation, adaptation,” says justice and stewardship in their climate and water supply interventions was my Sibonokuhle Ncube, “Communities of faith response. The impact of our individual first port of call. We work together with must pray for people in power who control reductions may be minimal, yet we communities [affected by food insecurity] resources. We need to pray for those who must consider how our excess carbon to co-create pathways to adequate have no sense of ecological responsibility.” consumption “causes discomfort on the provisioning. People can also participate in civil other side of the world.” “The church needs leaders who action. “Individuals and communities can “The systems perspective brings understand their local dynamics and are do something within their realms. It stops Scripture to come alive. Communities that able to share transformative information us from being gripped by despair.” are disenfranchised by shifting climate due from the pulpit. The body of Christ is richer Sibonokuhle Ncube advised the to our action are our neighbours – not just in spiritual knowledge, government of Zimbabwe in the lead-up to (Matthew 25). “We need to think deeply

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CCC-35.2-2020-EN.indd 8 10/1/2020 2:48:08 AM Indonesia New ways of learning for a new time

by Nindyo Sasongko

indyo Sasongko believes theology should be publicly available to a wider audience. His experiment in online discussions began in November N2018; when the pandemic hit, “Theovlogy” increased in frequency to meet the demand for online means of connecting. “The initial purpose was to be for laypeople who don’t have background in theology in Indonesia. We started with 15-20 minute episodes on theology matters accessible to a general audience. Later on, we find out that our audience grew – not only from Indonesia but also my colleagues.” The theology professor and PhD candidate invited fellow theology students – from Indonesia, but spread around the world from Australia to the USA – to At Peace Sunday 2017 celebrations at Mtshabezi Brethren In Christ Church in Zimbabwe, join him in humble conversations online. Sibonokuhle Ncube stands by as the bishop commissions a borehole at the adjacent Three of the six founders are Mennonites: Ekuphileni Bible Institute of the Brethren In Christ Church. Traditionally, they mark Peace Nindyo Sasangko and a second theology Sunday by commissioning institutional or community infrastructure with a peace-related student Adi Widya Nugroho were name. This has contributed to strengthening awareness of the centrality of peace to raised in the GKMI church in Indonesia. development. Perdian Tumanan is studying at AMBS, courtesy Sibonokuhle Ncube Elkhart, Indiana. This meeting grew into “Theovlogy,” a theology discussion channel about what just transition look like. Global responsible for looking after those gifts, online with almost 250,000 followers. North or Global South – we call need to bequeathing generations to come with do something. We need to hold those better ecological gifts to ensure we share Concerned about accessibility for those in authority to account in ways that are a better quality of life for posterity.” with poor internet connections, Nindyo theologically sound. We are not only a “It’s my prayer that this generational Sasongko converts the recordings to audio people who work in ways that are hidden, thinking can help us reorient our minds: for podcasts. But he sees the barriers of but are also able to speak truth to power, ask the Holy Spirit to reconfigure our access melting away. During the pandemic, as many a Bible character has had to do.” spirits. Look at the world redeemingly sometimes those in rural Indonesia have a better connection than he does in “In face of natural disasters and the through God’s eyes. Look at brothers New York City, USA. impact of shifting climate, continuing in and sisters and creation worldwide our future, communities will need to be through God’s eyes.” “Theovlogy” was launched into English resilient, work with alternative energy, – and to a wider audience – at Mennonite know how to communicate our ecological Sibonokuhle Ncube, a member of World Conference’s Global Anabaptist stewardship as part of our faith,” says Brethren in Christ Church Zimbabwe, Peacebuilding Festival in the Netherlands Sibonokuhle Ncube. is currently walking her peacebuilding in 2019 when they spoke with Mennonite journey through studies in theology historian Ben Goossen. and peace at Anabaptist Mennonite Sharing gifts Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Indiana, The audience comes from a variety For Mennonite World Conference, there USA. She is also a member of the of different traditions; “probably MWC Creation Care Task Force. is a lens of “sharing gifts.” “Life is a gift more progressive Christians, but also from God. Yet there is a high life we find Learn more about the conservative.” in Jesus who gives us abundant life. He MWC Creation Care gives us gifts like the created order. We are Task Force here https://mwc-cmm.org/ creation-care-task- force

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Guests have included well known “This is a safe space,” connection – the sense of community experts in their fields, but it started with that Anabaptists believe is imperative to inviting friends. he says. Hosts & guests church. “We wanted to provide a non-elite form. talk about faith & religion “The church breaks down barriers,” he We invited BA students with passion in says. Online services have done that in theology, people writing a paper that got “without being judged a new way, making it possible for people published.” around the world to participate in church by doctrine, dogma or together. “This might be what the apostle A new appetite for theological rules. Paul says: in Christ all boundaries are conversation broken down, there is no Jew nor Greek (Galatians 3:28),” he says. The pandemic was “a blessing in disguise” on the recorded sessions. The audience for “Theovlogy”, says Nindyo Sasongko. includes people none of the originators Online discussions give opportunity for The organizers were busy with schoolwork; have ever met before. “Even across people from different religious traditions six months passed without a new episode. religious traditions.” to dialogue and learn. “At Manhattan Then the closedown happened in mid- Mennonite Fellowship, we invited a Sufi to “This is a safe space,” he says. Hosts March and everyone had time at home. talk to us. He had his disciples watching and guests talk about faith and religion “I thought I would be insane if I just from Indonesia.” Another time, a Jewish “without being judged by doctrine, dogma prepared for class.” So, “Theovlogy” rabbi invited his colleagues to watch. or rules. revived. Soon Nindyo Sasongko learned “I see that this might be the future of the about other podcasts in Indonesia “Our audience can have access to church.” following its example. theological matters that they did not expect before. Many of our audience “There is an openness that isn’t there in Teaching classes online left Nindyo expected theology as a defense of faith, person in four walls,” he says. Sasongko feeling stretched. “Before apologetics.” But the podcast showcases “I see a challenge to my own theology” the pandemic, [to discuss theological different views of theology. The audience in meeting online. “I am vulnerable; I must matters], we would meet our audience experiences how theology can be open myself to be moved, challenged, and they would pose questions directly to approached not from an apologetical interrupted, changed and transformed by us. Now we could only see their writing, point of view, but from a more collegial, my encounters with others. I learn that I am short questions; we could not see their conversational and hospitable point of still in the process of becoming, and this expressions.” view.” process is sometimes painful. But over at “Theovlogy”, “Our “Theovlogy” has hosted a Muslim “When all humans are connected conversations brought me health.” scholar and an agnostic as guests. “We through the internet today, I ask myself “We found people can follow and interact never knew Christianity in this kind of what it means to be human. It is to be as they watch our conversations,” says openness and hospitality,” both guests and open to vulnerability, because only in this Nindyo Sasongko. “Before, regular church listeners told them. way, we learn to see new possibilities.” people’s retention is 20-25 minutes. During “In this sense, I can see this is a the pandemic, people sit and watch for Mennonite way of providing reconciliation,” Nindyo Sasongko is a founder of about an hour – on hard theological topics. “Theovlogy”. An ordained minister in the Nindyo says. They stay with what we are discussing. Gereja Kristen Muria Indonesia (GKMI) They can re-watch or re-listen. I didn’t see Conference in Indonesia, he is currently Lessons for the new normal? a PhD student in systematic theology this happen before the pandemic.” and a teaching fellow at Fordham “Through this podcast, we learned that “When we can, we sit together and let’s University, New York, USA. He is also talk,” Nindyo says. theologian in residence at Manhattan we created community,” says Nindyo Mennonite Fellowship, New York City, Sasongko. The hosts and guests interact But, in the meantime, he has seen and a member of the MWC Creation with the audience during the live question the potential for even a remote, screen- Task Force. and answer session and through feedback mediated experience to provide a

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NEW DATE

“I learned about different cultures. Youth delegate becomes It is good to see we have this international church.” workshop organizer He never returned to engineering. Now Estifanos Gedlu is deputy director of leadership “The memories are still in my From 5 to 10 July 2022, there will A recent engineering graduate transformation at Leadership mind,” says Estifanos Gedlu, be daily mass worship, service before he went to GYS, Estifanos Transformation Ministries. workshop coordinator for Assembly opportunities, fellowship activities – Gedlu was working in campus He works with rural pastors and is 17 (a gathering of Anabaptist from and two workshop time slots – on ministry at Meserete Kristos an elder in his local church, Debub around the globe). the theme “Following Jesus across Church, which led to his Meserete Kristos Church. barriers.” opportunity to go to Paraguay. A delegate at Global Youth Summit The friends he made from around and Assembly 15 in Paraguay “We are looking for topics and “From that moment, I read about the world at GYS remained close in 2009, Estifanos Gedlu left his workshop leaders that reflect the Anabaptists, I received Courier for years, as they started careers home country of Ethiopia for the cultural and linguistic diversity of [MWC’s magazine], I got Info and their own families. first time to attend. our global communion and are [MWC’s monthly e-newsletter]. “I was impressed by the culture of interactive and dynamic,” says I was looped in.” “Some of my old friends from GYS may be coming with their children.” Paraguay: the way they worship; Estifanos Gedlu. “In addition In Assembly workshops, “I heard the way they welcomed us.” to theological and historical interesting stories from countries “I’ll do my best to make my part of workshops, we are particularly Today, he is part of the team with similar challenges to those Assembly interesting and relevant interested in including cultural or shaping this barrier-crossing from my home,” he says. to various contexts,” he says. creative workshops and stories of experience for the Mennonite lived experience.” World Conference event in Semarang, Indonesia.

Program Committee, from right to left: Estifanos Gedlu, Jessica Mondal, Benjamin Bergey, Natalie Frisk, Frieder Boller, Jardely Martínez. Photo: Liesa Unger

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Assembly Gathered Evening Worship Registration Program Each evening will have special music Registration opens in New Date and speaker from one continent. On 18 August 2020, the December 2021 Executive Committee July Daily Themes Registration fee for adults will be has decided to move the 05 Tuesday (opening) – following Jesus together across barriers D $550, C $150, B $75 or A $35 US Assembly by one year to or Rp.500.000 06 Wednesday – following Jesus depending on country of citizenship 5–10 July 2022. Indonesia – learning together will still be the host (see rate groups on website). 07 Thursday – following Jesus country; the Holy Stadium Registration includes lunch and – living together supper, Semarang airport pick-up church in Semarang, 08 Friday – following Jesus and drop-off and Semarang hotel Central Java, the place for – caring together Evening Worship. shuttles to and from Assembly site. the meeting. 09 Saturday – following Jesus Photo: Jonathan Charles – celebrating together There will be special rates 10 Sunday (closing) for children, youth, families, – following Jesus together Children’s All-Day Program volunteers and GYS attendees. Please see website for more Assembly Scattered Children will join the morning singing details. Before and after Morning Program with their families. From there they will Assembly Gathered Each morning will feature speakers be welcomed into their own program Lodging, breakfast included various locations in Indonesia chosen by the Young Anabaptist in different age groups. The program Hotel Rooms: Committee and by one of the MWC will involve story telling around the $30 to $50 US room per night at a Commissions. Youth will be actively biblical message. There will be 3- to 4-star hotel 1–4 Global Youth involved in the program on stage. games, crafts, singing and tons of fun. Dormitory-style lodging at local July Summit (GYS) Singing together will be a major part The program will include lunch and school: $10 US per person per night 2022 Salatiga, Central of our celebration. end before supper. Java, Indonesia Registration fee GYS: Theme: including food and lodging Life in the Spirit: A $15, B $35, C $75, D $275 US, Learn. Serve. E Rp. 200 000.- Worship. depending on country of citizenship (see rate groups on website). 5–10 Assembly July Gathered For more information 2022 Holy Stadium, [email protected] Semarang, Youth Program. Children’s Program. Central Java, Photo: Heike Martin Photo: Jonathan Charles Indonesia Theme: Following Jesus Afternoon activities Teen and Youth Program together across Afternoon activities will include barriers. workshops, service opportunities, Youth will have a special focus local tours, sports, Global Church during all parts of Assembly. This Village and Anabaptist World Cup. will include small groups for youth, Young Anabaptist speakers, inspiring music, service opportunities, youth- related themes in workshops, sports activities and hang out time at the Global Church Village. And at the end of each full day, there Print your own Assembly poster; will be a bonus late-evening youth share information about Assembly. program. www.mwc-cmm.org

Assembly Scattered. Service Opportunities. GYS. Photo: Liesa Unger Photo: Liesa Unger Photo: John Eby

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Rely on God for everything The story of Brethren In Christ Church Nepal

Nepal MWC member: Nepal BIC Church/Brethren in Community Welfare Society Baptized Members 1076 Congregations 22 President Shemlal Hembron

Source: Global Statistics – 2018 Directory

“I learn to share and care for others happily even in the time of difficulties such as the pandemic coronavirus and lockdown,” says Mrs. Netra Neupane.

lthough the number of people Mrs. Netra Neupane, a member of a BIC infected by COVID-19 is Nepal church, runs a restaurant in a rented increasing, the people of house. During the lockdown, she found very Nepal have suffered more due difficult to survive and also pay the house to the lockdown. People have rent because the restaurant was completely lostA jobs and are starved for food. However, closed. In spite of her own difficulties, when in the midst of such a critical situation, she saw some people without food lying in Christian believers learn to rely on God for the bus station, she shared with them the everything. rice she received for herself. During the lockdown, most believers Even when the local BIC church wanted spent time in prayer seeking the will of God help her family, she directed assistance to for their lives. those who are more needy and helpless Many formed prayer groups for chain than her family. prayer weekly or monthly, and some spent “I learn to share and care for others time in fasting prayer. happily even in the time of difficulties Mrs. Netra Neupane They learned to be thankful to God such as the pandemic coronavirus and courtesy of Hanna Soren even in the time of difficulties. They have lockdown,” she says. “That gives me not collected whatever they have and shared only satisfaction but joy in serving the with each other as per their needs. needy as Jesus taught his disciples.”

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Brethren in Community Welfare Services helps farmers like these in Jahada Rural Municipality Members of BIC Nepal churches have a in eastern Nepal through food security projects, vocational training programs and rural vibrant faith despite the possibility of threats education programs. from extremist religious groups. Photo: Henk Stenvers Photo: Henk Stenvers

First mission efforts time. When they saw the interest of people USA. In 2009, BIC Nepal became a full Brethren In Christ Church (BIC) Nepal was to accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour, the member of MWC. pioneered by missionaries from the Brethren missionaries began to visit them regularly. In the partnership of BICWM and In Christ church in Bihar, India. In turn, the The first and second events of baptism coordination of BIC Church Bihar, BIC BIC mission station in Bihar, India, was were recorded in 1959 and 1962 when Church Nepal continues to grow in spite started in 1914 by the missionaries from Nepal was constitutionally a Hindu country. of some challenges and difficulties. USA and Canada who came under BIC This meant preaching the gospel was illegal Now there are 34 churches including 12 World Mission. and conversion from any other religion to house fellowships with 912 total baptized For more than three decades or until Christianity was punishable by three to five believers. around 1950, these missionaries from years imprisonment. Followers of Christ had BIC Church Nepal continues to have North America were not very successful in to face persecution from government and close fellowship with BIC Church Bihar and planting churches. In the meantime, they the local community. holds associate membership in Mennonite discovered mission work among Santals in Christian Service Fellowship of India south Bihar was fruitful to them. So, they Formation of Brethren in Community (MCSFI). Welfare Society appointed a native missionary from south BIC Church Nepal is associated and Bihar to reach out the Santals in north Bihar. In the beginning, most early believers were coordinates with the local Christian society, Encouragingly, people responded to Jesus excommunicated by their society. However, provincial Christian society and Nepal Christ and very soon churches began to in spite of this situation, Nepali Christians Christian Society NCS) and also with grow among the Santals. continued to spread the gospel secretly and National Churches Fellowship of Nepal Later the North American missionaries the number of believers in Christ continued (NCFN). found another responsive tribal people to increase. Therefore, regular church known as Urawn where the BIC worship began in the early 1980s and Major ministry focus the churches of BIC Nepal were officially missionaries focused their outreach. As a Along with many other church activities, organized in 1994. They continued to work result, many people accepted Jesus as their BIC Church Nepal has been focusing on under the church board of BIC Bihar until Saviour. Significantly, the churches among five major areas: church planting, leadership 2004 when BIC Church Nepal became the the Santal and Urawn began to grow in their development, community development, national conference. neighbourhood as the local believers were children’s education and humanitarian relief so zealous to reach out other people from Since there was no provision to register service. their own tribe wherever it was possible for as a church, BIC Church Nepal decided them. to organize a social wing to serve the Church Planting When an Australian missionary working community to share the love of God Evangelism and church planting is one of in Nepal border informed the BIC in action. In the name of Brethren in the main focuses of BIC Church Nepal and missionaries in Bihar about the Santals in Community Welfare Society (BICWS) Nepal, therefore the church has been reaching out Nepal they became very happy to know it a social trust was formed and registered to the unreached people for Christ. The BIC and planned to visit them. So, under the with the local government. After two church in Nepal is small, and its numbers leadership of this Australian missionary, years of becoming a national conference, do not increase rapidly. However, inspite Indian native missionaries from BIC Bihar BIC Church Nepal became an associate of persecution and other difficulties, new visited the Santals in Nepal for the first member of MWC in 2006 in Pasadena,

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CCC-35.2-2020-EN.indd 14 10/1/2020 2:48:17 AM The mud-house BIC church building in Itahari Brethren in Community Welfare Services The central plain area of Nepal – where Sunsari District was affected by flooding. helps farmers like through food security most of the BIC churches are congregated – Photo: Henk Stenvers projects and vocational training programs. experiences frequent flooding from excess Photo: Henk Stenvers rainfall. Photo: Shemlal Hembron believers are being added to the church (BICWS). We serve those who need to be food and other needs for those who are in and also new house fellowships are formed helped and be librated as we find in Luke quarantine centres in the border of eastern almost every year. 4:18 and Romans 12:13. Nepal. BIC missionaries from India pioneered First, for six years in partnership with churches mainly among the Santals and United Mission to Nepal (UMN), BICWS Children’s Education Urawn communities in southeast Nepal. empowered women of the target community Most of BIC churches in Nepal are Now, the BIC churches are planted among through self-help group mobilization, established in the rural area among 11 different peoples including Santals and vegetable farming and kitchen gardening. unreached people who are mostly Urawn in seven districts of two different For last 10 years in partnership with MCC uneducated and also financially poor. When provinces of Nepal. The church includes Nepal and the local government, BICWS these people come to the faith in Christ, we people from Rajbanshi, Rishedev, Tharu, has been actively involved in the community try to support them to grow in their spiritual Rai, Limbu, Magar, Newar, Tamang (Lama), development through food security life and also assist them for their children’s Madheshi people groups and high caste projects, vocational training programs education. Hindus. and rural education programs in the target We have two different programs in order community of Jahada Rural Municipality in to ensure all children of BIC Church Nepal Leadership Development eastern Nepal. have an opportunity to get school education The BIC church organizes short-term and are nurtured spiritually. lay-leadership training at least twice a Humanitarian Service In partnership with BIC World Mission year. Since 1990, in coordination with In partnership with MCC Nepal and the USA, we run Sponsorship Program for Allahabad Bible Seminary, Uttar Pradesh, local government, BICWS Nepal is also International Children’s Education (SPICE) India, BIC Church Nepal has developed a engages in response to natural disasters. hostels where children from rural areas Bachelor of Theology (BTh) course in Nepali Almost every year, the society has been come to live together and join the nearby medium. This course is carried on through responding to drought, fire, floods and government schools for their education. extension program as it is aimed to provide thunderbolts. In 2015, BICWS responded to In partnership with BIC World Mission an opportunity to those Nepali-speaking earthquake although it was in limited areas. Canada, we run a Provide Essential church leaders who cannot attend or do With the support of MWC through the Assistance for Children’s Education not have an opportunity to go for theo- Global Church Sharing Fund, we supported (PEACE) project. This project is run nearby logical training in residential Bible school/ congregations to reconstruct the church government’s schools, so the BIC Church colleges. This course is also open to buildings that were damaged by the gathers children every day before and after other evangelical churches and denomin- flood. Whenever needed, BIC church school for tutoring and food. ational leaders who are interested. also coordinates with the other local congregations and provincial Christian Theological Issues Community Development society for humanitarian relief support In Nepal, we do not have major theological Serving the community who are helpless during critical situations. conflicts since BIC Church is the only and oppressed has always been part of Even this year at the time of lockdown Anabaptist-related church, although BIC Church Nepal’s mission since it was due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BIC the believers are from different cultural registered with the local government as Church Nepal coordinated with the backgrounds. Charismatic Pentecostal, Brethren in Community Welfare Society provincial Christian society to provide relief Presbyterian and Lutheran churches in

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the region also mostly practice balanced After Nepal became a secular country evangelical faith and teaching. Most it was a joy for Christians to worship and MWC Financial churches in Nepal recognize the differences practice the faith in Christ more openly. and accept each other, living in communal Christian leaders are learning about update harmony. the fundamental human rights and are raising their voice for religious freedom. You make a difference in our Global Challenges and opportunities But with this religious freedom, several Anabaptist community when you contribute cults came to Nepal who visit mostly to the ministry of MWC. We thank In the present context of Nepal, we have Christian homes and try to impose the you: national member churches, local both challenges and opportunities. believers to accept their teaching that is congregations, and individuals. contradicting our biblical and evangelical Designated funds are used to carry out Challenges faith. specific ministries; this year, a new fund Persecution from the government and was added to support initiatives responding religious fundamentalists is one of Opportunities to needs arising from the COVID-19 global the major challenges. Although Nepal In the midst of difficulties and pandemic. And we’re raising funds for is declared a secular country under Assembly in Indonesia in 2022. the constitution of Nepal, which was challenges, many good things are also promulgated 20 September 2015, and happening. The graph below shows how the gifts we the constitution provides for freedom to Persecution brings unity among the receive were used in 2019 practice one’s religion, it still denies the Christians and binds them in one cord and 2020. right to convert another person. Christianity despite doctrinal and denominational We are grateful for all contributions in is a minor religion; therefore, followers of differences. It opens the ways to connect support of Mennonite World Conference. Jesus are often in the target of religious with each other and share our common We rely on your end-of-year contributions to fundamentalists, who falsely accuse concerns and also support each other in meet our financial commitments.Your gift Christians of bribing others to Christianity. whatever ways possible. Those who are impacts lives! Several Christian leaders from other strong in faith try to help other believers See mwc-cmm.org/donate churches are in prison or facing court cases to be strong and encourage them to trust against them. BIC leaders are aware of the God, spend time in continuous prayer Len Rempel, chief operating officer risk of accusations against them. and live in closer fellowship with other Other major challenge is natural disasters believers in Christ. They are motivated as Nepal is vulnerable to earthquakes, to organize chain prayer with fasting and landslides, floods, thunderstorms, praying and also depend on God rather avalanche, fire, droughts and epidemics. than any resources or human being. Almost every year, hundreds of people die It gives them sense of togetherness and thousands people are badly affected by and unity as it is seen in the book of these disasters. Acts. During difficulties, the believers experience the grace of God and also In 2015, an earthquake took more than learn to support each other in every way 10 000 lives and damaged 500 000 houses as possible. They learn only to depend were damaged. People who were badly on God and God’s power rather than affected by such devastating disasters human power. As they live in unity, they were slowly trying to recover. Now, the learn to co-operate each other and try to COVID-19 pandemic has affected normal resolve problems together. human life. At press time, 51 919 people are infected of which 322 have died and 36 In times of difficulty, like the pandemic, 672 have recovered. Comparatively more people are more open to the gospel. than the direct hit by the illness has been Especially when they are sick, lack the lockdown which badly affected people supplies and also face political pressure, especially the daily wage workers. they are open to accept Jesus as Saviour. Poverty and increasing rate of unemployment of youth is another Submitted by Hanna Soren on behalf of BIC major problem because of which youth Church Nepal. participants in the church decrease day by day. The young people are attracted to worldly pleasures and they try to compete with others to earn more instead of desiring to grow spiritually and be obedient to God.

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Executive Committee meetings MWC charts course for future operations

“Like the Israelites in the desert as commitments later in the year,” says Len The report is the result of five years referenced in the book of Numbers, we’re Rempel. of dialogue between representatives of on a journey together, trusting in God’s Mennonite World Conference, Lutheran daily provision and presence,” said J. Administrative proposals World Federation and the Roman Catholic Nelson Kraybill, MWC president, to open In April, the Executive Committee approved church (Pontifical Council for Promoting the second set of online meetings of the administrative proposals concerning Christian Unity). Executive Committee. financial statements, officers’ reports, The MWC Faith and Life Commission MWC’s Executive Committee met a policy for workshop and seminars at is developing Renewal 2027 webinars for virtually twice in 2020 to replace the Assembly 17 and a Memorandum of churches to explore the implications of the cancelled in-person meetings and Understanding (MOU) with Anabaptist report and act on its recommendations. postponed Renewal 2027 event in British Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS). “We urge pastors and leaders to mine Columbia, Canada. “The AMBS MOU builds on the idea of this resource,” says MWC president J. The global pandemic has caused sharing gifts in our global church,” says Nelson Kraybill. “We can learn from other unexpected turns in the journey of MWC general secretary César García. “This traditions and appreciate their perspective Mennonite World Conference. Considering opens the door for the possibility of AMBS even as we strengthen our own theological the recommendation of the National working with other theological institutions foundations.” Advisory Committee of the host country, in the Global South.” Also, the emerging “What is different about this dialogue the Executive Committee agreed during Global Anabaptist Higher Education is that it gives specific recommendations their 18-19 August 2020 meetings to Network (GAHEN) can help Mennonite that imply changes in relation to the postpone the global Assembly planned for educational institutes around the world to reception of members raised in traditions Indonesia until 2022. Timing and venue will work more closely with each other. that practice infant baptism,” says César remain the same. The Executive Committee also approved García. “We want to be intentional about Delaying this event with attendant changes to the Global Church Sharing studying this document.” meetings requires a change to term Fund accounts: the newly formed Creation endings for General Council and Executive Care Task Force will be entrusted with Name change Committee members and MWC Officers, use of the carbon offset fund originally A proposal to change the name of including the MWC President. The collected under auspices of the Global Mennonite World Conference to be more Executive Committee agreed by consensus Church Sharing Fund. The usual inclusive of all its Anabaptist members and on a proposal to extend these terms by management fee will not apply to the its function as a global communion (not one year until the new Assembly date. COVID-19 response fund so all donations merely a periodic event), remains under The matter proceeds to General Council can go directly to grants to meet needs for discussion. members via email for final approval. food, hygiene items and health education in countries of the Global South. Future meetings Budget Recognizing the loss of extended conversation and relationship-building time At the 30 March to 2 April 2020 meetings, Study on baptism dialogues at face-to-face meetings, the Executive the Executive Committee approved the Approved at the April meeting, Mennonite Committee affirmed the financial and proposed 2020 budget while recognizing World Conference appointed a creation environmental stewardship benefits of the financial uncertainty created by the care task force to raise awareness and online meeting. global pandemic. Over the year, staff and propose actions for our global church “We might need to adapt a bit and officers will regularly apprise Executive family. The task force works closely with learn to understand each other in an Committee of the financial situation and the four MWC Commissions. online fashion,” says Europe Executive implications for the budget, and will “This [discussion] comes at the Committee member Wieteke consult if major budget changes are right time,” says MWC vice president van der Molen. required. Rebecca Osiro. “The young people in In August, giving is in line with previous my congregation observe that this issue years, reports Chief Financial Officers Len begins with them. I hope this task force Mennonite World Conference release Rempel. Expenses are below budget due will find ways of reaching out to engage Read more about to reduced travel; however, Fair Share with even more people within our national Assembly postponement contributions from national churches have churches who are interested in this subject.” Read more about been coming in slower than anticipated. the trilateral “Some parts of the world have entered Also in April, the Executive Committee dialogue report into recession due to the pandemic. This received the official report “Baptism and may impact giving from individuals as well Incorporation into the Body of Christ, the as member churches’ ability to meet their Church.”

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GYS The next Global Youth Summit (18+) will be held 2–5 July 2021 in Salatiga, Indonesia. The theme of GYS 2021 is Life in the Spirit: Learn, Serve, Worship. “GYS provides one with the opportunity to really open our eyes to the fact that behind all those countries that appear on the map there are brothers and sisters in faith living in diverse social, economic and political contexts. These contexts are the backdrop for specific challenges in each region to which God is responding in unique ways,” says Karina Bogarin, a member of Maranata de los Hermanos Menonitas, Paraguay. She was a delegate The YABs Committee in Kenya in 2018: Ebenezer Mondez, Asia; Larissa Swartz, North for the Convencion Evangelica de Iglesias America; Jantine Brouwer-Huisman, Europe; Makadunyiswe Doublejoy Ngulube, Africa; Paraguayas Hermanos in 2015. Oscar Suárez, Latin America Learn more here: mwc-cmm.org/yabs/gys Photo: Karla Braun Meet your YABs Committee Online Event “As we walk with Jesus in relationship, his • Build capacity for young people peace flows out of us into our relationships • Provide space for young people to with others. It must be based in love,” influence decision-making in the church says Young AnaBaptist Lilia Aranguren • Promote peace-making and the a member of Iglesia Menonita Venga Anabaptist identity among the young tu Reino, Villas de Granada, Bogotá, people Colombia. • Create a system that allows for continuity She participated in the YABs Fellowship for the next YABs Committee, by Week global gathering on Zoom 19 June maintaining a connection with young 2020. people in our respective continents • Raise awareness of the importance of What are YABs? connecting with the global church and Young AnaBaptists (YABs) refers to all understanding Anabaptist identity members of MWC member churches from • Carry out monthly check-ins with each teens to young adults up to age 35. representative through our social media Renewal 2027 Though we have different faces, cultures, platforms languages and ways of practicing our In 2020, we were forced Anabaptist faith, all young people in the YABs Committee to cancel the Renewal global Anabaptist family form part of YABs. The YABs committee is made up of a 2027 event scheduled for Together we have much to share! representative from each continent and a Abbotsford, B.C., Canada, Just like the commissions and other mentor. because of the global groups of MWC, YABs also has a pandemic. committee, the YABs Committee. This The current committee: We are happy to announce that committee represents all of us young • Makadunyiswe Doublejoy Ngulube Renewal 2027 will take place as an people before the MWC General Council (Zimbabwe) for Africa online event in 2021, focused on the and works with the MWC Executive • Ebenezer Mondez (Philippines) for Asia theme of baptism and the recently- Committee. and the Pacific • Jantine Brouwer-Huisman (Netherlands) published final report of the Trilateral Purpose for Europe Dialogue on baptism. (Read more: On the foundation of our Anabaptist identity, • Oscar Suárez (Colombia) for Latin mwc-cmm.org/node/3716) through global and local networking, we as America The event is projected to be held young people walk together and empower • Larissa Swartz (USA) for North America in July 2021 using a format that and support each other in fellowship, • Our mentor is Tigist Tesfaye (Ethiopia) combines a webinar with interactive decision-making and peace-making The continental representatives share discussion. initiatives. the needs of young people in their regions Watch for more information: Focus with the YABs Committee, and jointly mwc-cmm.org/renewal-2027 • Create some infrastructure for networking discuss projects and themes related to within young people, both through face- young Anabaptists. The mentor advises and to-face and online interaction monitors the work of the YABs Committee. • Encourage fellowship and closer This committee changes every six years relationship within young people, and after the Global Youth Summit. with other groups in the church, locally and globally

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CCC-35.2-2020-EN.indd 18 10/1/2020 2:48:19 AM President’s column A fresh wind of the Spirit A “great multitude...from all tribes and peoples and languages” worship around the throne of God (Revelation 7). That vision aptly describes Mennonite World Conference. But it stands against a backdrop of disaster that feels too familiar today. Unable to rescue the world, saints cry, “Salvation belongs to God...and to the Lamb!” Parts of our world have seen disaster in recent years – Ebola, hurricanes, civil war, religious persecution. Now creation groans Anabaptist World Fellowship under COVID-19. We cancel meetings, Sunday worship materials wear masks, meet by Zoom – and pray. In Revelation 8, angels carry prayers of saints Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday caught in chaos into God’s presence. Our is an opportunity to remind our prayers, too! Catch the power of the wind of the Spirit. communities of faith that we are all part Will COVID-19 remind us of our need of of one body made up of many tribes, God? Photo: Karla Braun languages and nations (Revelation 7:9). • Plagues of Egypt belatedly softened Each year, we encourage Anabaptist- Pharaoh’s heart. upon themselves because they acted related churches across the globe to • Amos (chapter 4) laments that a “without discerning the body” use a common theme in their service on series of plagues did not turn Israel (1 Corinthians 11). the Sunday closest to 21 January. On to God. An often-cited Old Testament prophecy this date in 1525, the first baptism took • John of Revelation (9:20, 21) tells of God’s Spirit breaking through a place in Zurich, Switzerland. expected that global plagues terrible locust plague to bring salvation. Joel would turn humanity to God, says that plague would culminate in God We celebrate that, in Christ, and by the but they did not. pouring out the Spirit: “Your sons and your power of the Holy Spirit, the cultural and Coronavirus can highlight our need for daughters shall prophesy. [The elderly] will national boundaries that separate us each other and awaken hunger for justice. dream, [the young] will have visions” have been overcome by the cross. The poor disproportionately suffer in this (Joel 2). pandemic because of fewer financial Ever renewing the church, may God’s Materials for 2021 were prepared by and medical resources. Now is a time Spirit blow afresh through MWC as Asian church leaders on the Assembly for Anabaptists to share with sisters and COVID-19 passes! theme “Following Jesus across brothers in need. barriers” from the texts Isaiah 55:1-6, At ancient Corinth, more wealthy church J. Nelson Kraybill is president of MWC Psalm 27, John 4:1-42, members ate plenty at communion while (2015–2021). He lives in Indiana, USA. Philippians 2:1-11. poor members (arriving late?) went hungry. Some became “weak and ill” and died. On Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday, Those with resources brought judgement Anabaptist congregations can lament together about pain and suffering; reflect the glory of God together as we reach across religious, racial/ethnic and gender boundaries; and follow Jesus Be a part of MWC’s work together in obedience. You make a difference in the Mennonite World Conference family through your prayers and financial gifts. Download this resource to celebrate Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday Your contributions help to in your local congregation with the • support and sustain the worldwide community of global Anabaptist family in January or Anabaptist churches grounded in Jesus at whatever time is convenient for your • grow a thriving global communion through MWC congregation in 2021. commissions, networks and gatherings • uphold service and witness in our faith communities Send pictures and stories from your congregation’s celebration to Visit mwc-cmm.org to get involved. [email protected] Or Send your cheque and share your story by mail to mwc-cmm/awfs • PO Box 5364, Lancaster, PA 17808 USA #mwcmm • 50 Kent Avenue, Kitchener, ON N2G 3R1 CANADA #AnabaptistWorld FellowshipSunday Photo: Rina Ristanami Thank you for participating in the MWC global family!

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CCC-35.2-2020-EN.indd 19 10/1/2020 2:48:20 AM MWC Publications Request I would like to receive:

MWC Info A monthly email newsletter with links to articles on the MWC website. o English o Spanish o French

Courier Magazine published twice a year (April and October) o English o Spanish Members of Gloria Patri GKMI congregation in Semarang, Indonesia, watch their church o French service online from home during COVID-19. o Electronic Version (pdf)* Photo: Agus Setianto o Print Version *Avoid mailing delays: subscribe electronically – Where are we looking? mwc-cmm.org/email- signup Times of uncertainty. In such times people “You are the light of the world. A city look for guidance. Like in a storm, people built on a hill cannot be hid. No one need a lighthouse to help them navigate after lighting a lamp puts it under the Did you know? Subscription to Courier through dangerous waters. COVID-19 bushel basket, but on the lampstand, / Correo / Courrier is free, but it costs has been a time of enormous uncertainty, and it gives light to all in the house. In around $30.00 to produce it, print and mail now deepened by a financial crisis, the same way, let your light shine before around the world. Your gift to cover costs is environmental challenges and political others, so that they may see your good welcome. instability in many countries. works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14–16) Name Even before the pandemic, I heard from many friends worldwide an increasing Social media is shaping politics in many tendency to look at social media in search countries. I would say that it is shaping ______of guidelines about health, diet and even ecclesiologies and Christian faith too. ethics. People decide on how to respond But this influence is flowing in the wrong Address to the pandemic based on the opinion of direction. It is our faith that should shape popular influencers more than on what our politics, and it is our faith that should ______experts from credible sources say. While guide what we support and share in our writing this article, I spoke with two friends social media. ______from Colombia that look at social media for Jesus calls us to be light for the world. It advice about politics and theology. is the church that should set the example Email The Internet is like lightning in a storm. for the world on leadership, ethics, politics, Its flickers and flashes are stunning to justice and finances, among other matters. ______behold but not of much help to see what In this issue of Courier, we highlight is truly in front of you. Worse, this “light” what our global church has been doing in Phone is not spontaneous, but controlled. It response to COVID-19. We share some illuminates different directions based on of our challenges and questions about ______forces with intentions to manipulate or it. We speak about what we are learning even deceive. It is incredible to see how and what we need to reinforce as a many lies I have received from members Mennonite World Conference global church. Our societies need to be of our churches, forwarded in the format shaped by what we do in response to the 50 Kent Avenue, Suite 206 of a video and including Christian Kitchener, Ontario N2G 3R1 Canada pandemic – not the other way around. vocabulary to endorse them as biblical. And this, of course, is a challenge. In When I respond to unmask the video’s many ways, we fall short in our call to falsehoods, I discover that they have also be light. I hope that this issue of Courier been forwarded to my friends by other will encourage you to pray for our global Christians. This falsely reinforces the church and look for active ways of video’s supposed veracity. involvement in our global intention of We need to remember that algorithms allowing God to shine through and in us that manage what appears on social during these times of dangerous waters. media are driven by popularity, advertising revenue and our previous searches. César García, MWC general secretary, Instead of supporting communal originally from Colombia, lives in discernment, this kind of communication Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. ends up reinforcing the presuppositions that people already have. Photo: Karla Braun

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