May 13, 2019 Volume 23 Number 10

Harvesting manoomin at ‘Shooniversity’ Reflection at the close of the Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Team, pg. 12

INSIDE When it’s hard to go to church 4 The gift of ecumenism 11 Breaking through the screen 18 PM40063104 R09613 2 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019 editorial

fear. / I will hold my hand out to you, / Holding out the Christ-light speak the peace you long to hear.” Virginia A. Hostetler In the today’s feature “When it’s hard Executive Editor to go to church” (page 4), former pastor Donita Wiebe-Neufeld considers how a congregation might walk alongside e can all tough times. In Sunday sharing times, a people dealing with mental illness and have good woman spoke openly about her ongoing other hard life issues. In “Breaking “Wmental struggle with an eating disorder. A through the screen” (page 18), parents health. It is about hav- couple talked about their family and educators are reminded that ing a sense of purpose, member’s schizophrenia and the students’ time with technology can have strong relationships, feeling connected challenges it had for them. A recovering negative effects on their mental and to our communities, knowing who we alcoholic told of how he was using his social health. A sponsored content story are, coping with stress and enjoying past addiction experiences to minister (not available online) tells the story of life,” says a statement by the Canadian to others. As congregants listened and someone who experiences a strong Mental Health Association. learned about each other’s vulnerabil- connection between meaningful Statistics indicate that each year 6.7 ities, we were able to offer prayers, employment and mental well-being. million Canadians—one in five people— understanding and practical support. On our journey toward healing, let’s experience some form of mental illness. keep figuring out ways to hold the By age 40, that number increases to one ‘Things will get better.’ Christ-light out to each other in our in two people. Sadly, about 1.6 million There was a time when life looked families, churches and communities. citizens report they don’t have adequate hopeless to me. Struggling with deep care for mental-health needs. depression, I could not imagine how Same columnist / new name Here are some messages we can offer things could ever change for the better. You will notice a new byline on page 21. to each other as we deal with mental A doctor friend helped me get access to On April 20, B.C. correspondent Amy illness: medication, encouraged me to pursue Dueckman celebrated her marriage to counselling and reassured me, “Things Marc Waddell. She now writes under ‘You deserve to be well.’ will get better.” In my lowest times, I her new byline, Amy Rinner Waddell. In a recent conversation I had with held on to that reassurance. Thanks be We wish the newlyweds much happi- someone struggling with anxiety and to God, with time and the proper ness! depression, the question of worthiness support, my depression lifted. came up. Growing up in a household People struggling with long-term Corrections where affirmation rarely happened, anxiety, addictions, depression, schizo- Two corrections are needed to the “MC feeling broken and inadequate, this phrenia and other ailments know that Canada primer” story, which ran in the person did not feel worthy of a better there is no magic cure. But, with God’s April 29 issue. Concerning the new life. help, the right treatments and support, Witness funding model, support teams Sometimes we need to remind each with self-care and with the care of a are asked to raise at least half of the other: Each person is God’s beloved loving community, things can get better. funding needed to support International child, made in God’s image, and is The song “Will You let Me be your Witness workers. Also, Nhien Pham is deserving of a fulfilling life. The Cre- Servant,” No. 307 in Hymnal: A Worship not a Witness worker; he currently ator’s wish is for all to experience Book, captures some of the opportu- works with North American Vietnam- healing and wellness. nities before us. As companions on the ese Evangelical Fellowship, which is an journey toward wellness, we can “help MC Canada partner. Canadian Men- ‘You can talk about it. I will listen. I will help.’ each other walk the mile and bear the nonite regrets the errors. I once participated in a congregation load.” that demonstrated an unusual ability to Verse 3 says: “I will hold the Christ- support congregants going through light for you / in the night-time of your

Printed in Canada Award-winning member of the Canadian Church Press ISSN 1480-042X contents May 13, 2019 / Vol. 23, No. 10 ABOUT THE COVER: When it’s hard to go Kathy Moorhead Thiessen, a member of Christian Peacemaker Teams’ to church 4 Indigenous Peoples Solidarity (IPS) team, harvested manoomin (wild ‘Thinking of the church as a rice) at Grassy Narrows in northwestern Ontario last year. CPT people instead of a place discontinued the IPS program at the end of March due to a lack of helps those who are struggling funding. See story on page 12. with issues to feel connected PHOTO: INDIGENOUS PEOPLES SOLIDARITY TEAM even when they cannot bring themselves to attend large Two centuries of worship, a century of service 13 public services,’ writes Donita Rainham Mennonite Church in southwestern Ontario continues to Wiebe-Neufeld in our Focus meet in God’s name despite dwindling numbers, according to Maria on Mental Health feature. H. Klassen.

‘It’s all worship’ 14 Janet Bauman reports that MC Eastern Canada delegates recently celebrated God at work amidst new structures and sobering financial Regular features: realities that will involve cuts to external partners. For discussion 6 Readers write 7 Milestones 8 A moment from yesterday 9 Online NOW! 25 Join the (fashion) revolution 20 ServiceLinks 26 Calendar 30 Classifieds 31 The organizers of last month’s Fashion Revolution Week in Winnipeg want people to ask, ‘Who made my clothes?’ the next time they put Walking together 9 on an outfit or choose what clothing to buy, Rachel Bergen writes. Andrea Enns-Gooding Sourdough spirituality 22 In court with ‘Clifford’ 10 Donna Schulz uses words and photographs to profile Saskatoon baker Ed Olfert Joel Kroeker, who uses bread as a vehicle for change.

Canadian Mennonite Staff: Publisher, Tobi Thiessen, [email protected] Executive Editor, Virginia A. Hostetler, [email protected] Phone: 519-884-3810 Toll-free: 1-800-378-2524 Fax: 519-884-3331 Managing Editor, Ross W. Muir, [email protected] Website: canadianmennonite.org Online Media Manager, Aaron Epp, [email protected] Facebook.com/Canadian.Mennonite @CanMenno Contributing Editor, Rachel Bergen, [email protected] Please send all material to be considered for publication to: Editorial Assistant, Barb Draper, [email protected] General submission address: [email protected] Graphic Designer, Betty Avery, [email protected] Readers Write: [email protected] Circulation/Finance, Lisa Jacky, [email protected] Milestones announcements: [email protected] Advertising Manager, D. Michael Hostetler, [email protected], Calendar announcements: [email protected] toll-free voice mail: 1-800-378-2524 ext. 224 publications mail agreement no. 40063104 registration no. 09613 Senior Writer, Will Braun, [email protected] B.C. Correspondent, Amy Rinner Waddell, [email protected] return undeliverable items to: Canadian Mennonite, Alberta Correspondent, vacant 490 Dutton Drive, Unit C5, Waterloo, ON, N2L 6H7 Saskatchewan Correspondent, Donna Schulz, [email protected] Manitoba Correspondent, Nicolien Klassen-Wiebe, [email protected] Mission statement: To educate, inspire, inform, and foster dialogue on issues Eastern Canada Correspondent, Janet Bauman, [email protected] facing Mennonites in Canada as it shares the good news of Jesus Christ from an Anabaptist perspective. We do this through an independent publication and One-Year Subscription Rates other media, working with our church partners. Canada: $46 + tax (depends on province where subscriber lives) U.S.: $68 International (outside U.S.): $91.10 Published by Canadian Mennonite Publishing Service. Regional churches and MC Canada appoint directors to the board and support 38 percent of Canadian Subscriptions/address changes: Mennonite’s budget. (e-mail) [email protected] Board Chair, Henry Krause, [email protected], 604-888-3192 (phone) 1-800-378-2524 ext. 221 4 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019 feature When it’s hard to go to church By Donita Wiebe-Neufeld Special to Canadian Mennonite

PHOTO LEFT: © ISTOCK.COM/BERNARDBODO / PHOTO RIGHT: © ISTOCK.COM/SEVENTYFOUR The late Rachel Held Evans suggested that the church needs to feel less like a country club, where everyone is well put together, and more like an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, where brokenness is acknowledged, truth is told and questions are welcome as an important part of being a Christian community. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 5

love my church. It is very community at exactly the time it was community. “[N]o decent AA meeting important to me, but you the hardest to face those broken ever began with, ‘Hi, my name is Rachel, “Iwon’t be seeing me on Sunday expectations. She found it was easiest to and I totally have my act together,’” she morning as often,” Cara Baergen told arrive late and leave early to avoid wrote. her congregation in a sermon preached questions. “If I couldn’t handle going to Evans advocated for a church without at Edmonton’s First Mennonite Church my own church, I went to another one “masks,” that welcomes doubt, struggle this spring. where not too many people knew me,” and questioning. “We come in search of Consciously choosing to speak from she said. “I could go into a back row and sanctuary, a safe place to shed the masks a music stand away from the pulpit, she cry through the service.” and exhale,” she wrote. “We come to air candidly named hard experiences, our dirty laundry before God and health issues and questions of faith that A church without masks everybody because when we do it make it difficult for her to show up for Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, together we don’t have to be afraid.” worship services. She explained that and Finding the Church by the late She didn’t like the idea that people trying to hide pain and live up to Rachel Held Evans exposes many reasons have to have their lives fixed and faith expectations, self-imposed and other- people have for avoiding church as well intact before coming to church, likening wise, is like wearing a mask. It’s uncom- as thoughtful approaches to address that attitude to feeling you have to be in fortable and takes huge energy to the pain behind their absences. Using shape before joining a fitness club or maintain. statistics from the United States in 2015, that the house has to be clean before the While this mask serves a useful she claimed that “59 percent of young hired housekeeper arrives. “We think purpose, allowing participation in people ages 18 to 29 with a Christian church is for the healthy, even though community, at the same time it also background have dropped out of church.” Jesus told us time and time again he blocks healthy change in individuals and In Canada, the ground-breaking 2012 came to minister to the sick,” she wrote. congregations by hiding the issues. No study, “Hemorrhaging Faith,” concluded one wants to “break down” in public, so that two out of every three young adults Addressing pain and loss in church pretending everything is fine often feels were leaving the church. Anecdotally, it One issue that causes people to feel they preferable to the risk of having to appears the trend affects adults as well. can’t attend church is how the gathered answer too many “How are you doing?” Congregations have shrunk, adult faith community addresses pain and questions that can drain already Sunday school classes struggle to loss, both corporately and on an depleted emotional reserves. Finally, continue and volunteer positions are individual basis. when the mask is too much to bear, difficult to fill. Many people seem to be Kelly commented that the church, in even people who still value their faith either actively or passively avoiding general, does not lament well. It tends and their church will stop attending. Sunday morning attendance at church. to expect grief to be dealt with and Baergen is far from alone in finding it Evans wrote: “[W]e long for our packed away, often quicker than is difficult to be at church. Grief, loss of a churches to be safe places to doubt, to possible for the person who is experi- job, feelings of inadequacy, faith ask questions, and to tell the truth, even encing loss. “As a church, if we could struggles, depression, shyness, relation- when it’s uncomfortable. We want to understand grieving better, we’d ship issues, church politics, financial talk about the tough stuff—biblical understand that it goes on and on,” she struggle—or even the basic lack of interpretation, religious pluralism, said. “People can look okay and not be. someone to shovel a driveway—can sexuality, racial reconciliation and social You can be very functional, and not be keep people at home on Sunday justice—but without predetermined healed.” morning. And missing a few Sundays conclusions or simplistic answers, We Even though it was hard to find a can make it harder and harder to return. want to bring our whole selves through place to be authentic and open with After a spouse left, “Kelly” (a pseudo- the church doors, without leaving our pain during Sunday morning services, nym) struggled to go to church. Even hearts and minds behind, without there were times when Evans did find though the congregation was support- wearing a mask.” helpful responses to grief. At one ive, “that crush of well-intentioned The church as a place of belonging church, a trained spiritual caregiver was people—they were genuine, but I and acceptance in the midst of struggle quietly made available for prayer and couldn’t handle it—that look of pity that was an attractive concept for Evans. She anointing to those who were hurting. people give you,” she said. suggested that the church needs to feel At Kelly’s own church, a number of Compounding the difficulties was the less like a country club, where everyone sermons seemed perfectly tailored for shattered expectation that people of is well put together, and more like an her. Messages of hope, courage and even faith are supposed to be able to keep Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, where mercy provided words for the journey their marriages together, even more so brokenness is acknowledged, truth is through loss with all its twists and when they are leaders in the church. told and questions are welcome as an turns. Kelly needed faith and the church important part of being a Christian Perhaps one of the most helpful ways 6 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

to address the concept of struggling to prayer and connection with spiritual publicly affected her, Baergen said: “It go to church during difficult times is to directors, elders or deacons may provide was terrifying beforehand and felt revisit the definition of church and the non-threatening opportunities for those amazing immediately after, with all the ways people are involved with it. with questions and struggles to find a love and support I got from everyone. It Church is much more than a building, safe place to work through those has led to some really interesting a one-hour service on Sunday morning, without having to worry about becom- conversations…” or a pastor who is always available to ing emotional or expressing difficult Evans encouraged her readers to everyone. The expectation that the thoughts and doubts. “[i]magine if every church became a church and its pastor can “be all things • Small evening gatherings, such as place where everyone is safe, but no one to all people” on a Sunday morning is Taizé, prayer vigils or healing services, is comfortable. Imagine if every church obviously unrealistic, yet it is regularly a can invite people to bring pain and became a place where we told each part of the expectations people bring issues to a small group that is a less- other the truth. We might just create with them to church. But, when the intimidating place for struggle and sanctuary.” l definition of church is understood as worship to co-exist. being a people of God, rather than a Donita Wiebe- building, the idea of attendance and Another thing a congregation can do Neufeld is Canadian engagement with the church encom- is publicly process difficult issues, and Mennonite’s former passes more than a Sunday service. consistently work at the tasks of Alberta correspondent. Both Cara and Kelly found that handling disagreements and conflicts in She currently works individual church members who respectful, open ways while avoiding for Mennonite Central reached out and were there for them gossip. While it may feel counter-intui- Committee Alberta. were “the church” at critical times, tive for a community to be attractive to especially when they felt they could not newcomers while being open about its Rachel Held Evans, 37, died on May 4 participate fully in the public worship problems, this approach attracts those in Nashville of extensive brain swelling. service. Sometimes, showing up at who are looking for faith to be relevant She was placed in a medically induced worship and staying at the back of the to life’s issues. coma on April 19 after treatment for an sanctuary was enough, allowing them to Asked about how sharing her story infection led to brain seizures. hear what was being said and sung, enabling engagement with a few people, and providing the option of a quick exit For discussion when they felt overwhelmed. ΛΛ Kelly said that one of her pastors had 1. Has attendance dropped at your church in recent years? Is this because a helpful definition of church: “She people have completely stopped coming or because many people come always referred to Sunday morning as less often? What are your reasons for missing church? ‘worship’ [not church]. She said ‘church’ is what we do with our everyday lives.” 2. Do you find it difficult to go to church when you’re feeling vulnerable? Do She added: “I remember somebody you sometimes wear a mask in order to feel “good enough”? Are there asking me about prayer at that time other reasons why we sometimes hide behind masks? [during crisis]. My response was that I am dependent on the prayers of others. 3. Does your Sunday worship experience feel more like a country club or an . . . The challenge for the rest of us is Alcoholics Anonymous meeting? Does it feel like a comfortable place to that you too might be called to be the ask hard questions, a place that welcomes doubt and struggle? Are there church in a private way, not in that opportunities to be authentic and open? What does it mean to think of public hour.” the church as a people rather than a place? Thinking of the church as a people instead of a place helps those who are 4. Donita Wiebe-Neufeld quotes from Rachel Evans: “Imagine if every church struggling with issues to feel connected became a place where everyone is safe, but no one is comfortable. Imagine even when they cannot bring them- if every church became a place where we told each other the truth.” selves to attend large public services. There are also ways a congregation can —By Barb Draper work to make public gathering times more welcoming to those who struggle to attend: See related resources at Λwww.commonword.ca/Browse/1000Λ • Offering quiet spaces and times for Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 7 opinion

Λ Readers write of art’ ” letter, April 15, page 7. Λ Thank you to Evelyn Hoeppner for her letter. LL A shotgun is ‘a tool to put meat For me, Miriam Toews’s novel resembles the on the table’ dialogues in Plato’s Republic. A statement is made, followed by a response and then a response to the Re: “Swords into ploughshares, guns into art,” response, followed by another statement. And so on. March 4, page 23. And so questions about what salvation means in A great sculpture. Irian Fast-Sittler does great the context of the characters in Women Talking and work; keep it up! But I do have a problem with Paul what forgiveness mean in the context of the actual Dyck calling this old shotgun a “weapon.” Bolivian horrors are relevant questions in every When I was a young boy, living out on a farm in context where abuse happens and where Christians the mid-1930s, my father used a shotgun, much like try to be Christian. the one in the sculpture, to put fresh meat on our Jim Suderman, Winnipeg table. He would go shoot a few jack rabbits, take the meat and grind it, and my mother would make meatballs fried in a bit of pork lard. What a feast! He LL Seniors ride a wave of social concern would also shoot ducks and prairie chickens. Fresh meat was a real treat for our family of nine. We have been members of Erb Street Mennonite That shotgun was a tool to put meat on our table; Church (Waterloo, Ont.) since the late 1970s. it was never used to threaten or kill a human being. Over the years, peace and justice concerns have I believe it is a terrible thing to use anything to kill formed much of who we are. another human being. But are you aware of what Over time, it seems that societies have been things are used to kill people? caught in waves, or generations, of concern and I went online and checked out how many homi- action around social issues: cides there were in Winnipeg, a city of over 700,000, in 2018. The police report 27 homicides; 12 were • The civil rights and the anti-war movement in the caused by blunt force trauma; 11 were killed with a 1960s. knife. (Any knife that is sharp, pointed and has four • Environmental concerns, birthed by Rachel inches of blade length can be used to kill a person; I Carson’s Silent Spring, and the feminist movement, checked our kitchen and found nine knives that fit starting in the 1960s. this description, with another 10 in my workshop • Opposition to nuclear weapons and nuclear power for hunting, filleting, meat-cutting and utility.) Four in the 1970s. homicides were committed with guns. • Voices protesting human rights injustices among All the homicides were wrong, brutal and sense- North American Indigenous peoples and Latin less. Most of the guns used in mass shootings are Americans in the 1970s and 1980s. guns made for war (for killing people). The one in • The anti-apartheid movement in the 1970s and the sculpture was made to be a tool to put meat on 1980s. the table. • Support for Palestinians since forever. Jake Neufeld, Boissevain, Man. Thankfully, the churches have been active most of the time. LL Writer compares Women In between some of these waves there have been Talking to Plato’s Republic lulls. I believe we are at the tail end of a lull, and that the next big wave is beginning to grow, starting with Re: “Women Talking is a ‘human story . . . a work Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old Swedish student, followed by high school students in dozens of cities, and the Extinction Rebellion activists in London, We welcome your comments and publish most letters from subscribers. Letters, to be kept to 300 words or less, are who all are protesting against inadequate prepara- the opinion of the writer only and are not to be taken as tions being made to prevent worst-case climate endorsed by this magazine or the church. Please address change scenarios. issues rather than individuals; personal attacks will not appear in print or online. All letters are edited for length, As seniors who are responsible for part of the style and adherence to editorial guidelines. Send them to environmental mess and the dangers and destruc- [email protected] and include the author’s tion caused by climate change, receiving a tax credit contact information and mailing address. Preference is or carbon tax rebate doesn’t feel right to us. While given to letters from MC Canada congregants. realizing we need to do more, we will, on behalf of 8 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

future generations, donate our $231 rebate to a outages and many other events we’re simply on our non-profit organization that is fighting climate own all the way. Better to be a Good Samaritan, if change. Join us. possible, than another person needing help. Dorothy and Richard MacBride, Modern technology helps us immensely, but it also Waterloo, Ont. lulls us into over-reliance, ignorance and compla- cency. It seems that, in decades past, many people knew more about how to deal with various problems LL What are your back-up plans? and crises. Farms, homes and people were more self-reliant, it seems. Power grids, phone networks, A long cold February—often below -30C—had me water on tap, furnaces, rescue services and many wondering again how we’d do in such weather if other things are wonderful, but what are our back-up the power was off for weeks, like after the big ice plans? storm in the east 20 years ago. Not well, I conclud- The world is increasingly heading into troubled ed. times in terms of weather, economics and other A strong case can be made for every home having things. Short and long emergencies will grow in a wood stove option. Generators are great but can frequency, severity and duration. break down or run out of fuel, and more might not If it was always a good idea to prep, now it makes be available. even more sense. Fear of what might come doesn’t Most people also don’t have first-aid kits and other help, but accepting reality and acting appropriately, things in their cars. Homes, too, often lack emer- does. The more we’re prepared to do something gency supplies and equipment, and most of us lack about this or that problem, the more peace of mind basic emergency know-how. we have. Joined with faith, it’s an unbeatable com- Preparing for emergencies means we can better bination. and more quickly help ourselves, our families and Howard Boldt, Osler, Sask. others before 911 personnel arrive, and in power

ΛΛMilestones Births/Adoptions Epp—Peter Henry, 89 (b. March 5, 1930; d. April 11, 2019), Bowman—Addison Kate (b. April 5, 2019), to Jeremy and North Leamington United Mennonite, Leamington, Ont. Christina Bowman, Maple View Mennonite, Wellesley, Ont. Heinrichs—Frances, 93 (b. Aug. 27, 1925; d. March 27, 2019), Driedger—Clémentine Marie (b. April 3, 2019), to Karen Leis First Mennonite, Calgary. and Joel Driedger, Nutana Park Mennonite, Saskatoon. Hiebert—Henry Harry, 94 (b. Jan. 16, 1925; d. April 21, 2019), Foster—Amelia Mary (b. March 30, 2019), to Jeff and Katie Breslau Mennonite, Ont. Foster, Maple View Mennonite, Wellesley, Ont. Hiebert—Verna, 84 (b. Oct. 11, 1934; d. April 18, 2019), Fort Neufeld—Hunter Bri (b. April 17, 2019), to Jason and Brianna Garry Mennonite, Winnipeg. Neufeld, Douglas Mennonite, Winnipeg. Hildebrand—Jake, 78 (b. June 10, 1940; d. April 23, 2019), Siemens—Fiona Faye (b. April 20, 2019), to Shawn and Stacie Morden Mennonite, Man. Siemens, Nutana Park Mennonite, Saskatoon. Kehler—Justina (Jessie) (nee Neufeld), 88 (b. July 7, 1920; d. Steiner-Koop—Hugo Tilman (b. Feb. 13, 2019), to Rebecca March 9, 2019), Charleswood Mennonite, Winnipeg. Steiner and Pierre-Joël Koop, Stirling Avenue Mennonite, Lehn—Armin, 92 (d. April 19, 2019), Faith Mennonite, Kitchener, Ont. Leamington, Ont. Sawatzky—Victoria, 51 (b. Oct. 25, 1967; d. April 12, 2019), Fort Baptisms Garry Mennonite, Winnipeg. Tiessen—Martha (Rempel), 94 (b. March 20, 1925; d. April 17, Angalina Deng—First Mennonite, Edmonton, Feb. 10, 2019. 2019), Leamington United Mennonite, Ont. Meredith Reddy, Rachel Reid—Hamilton Mennonite, Ont., March 3, 2019. Canadian Mennonite welcomes Milestones announcements within four months of the event. Please Deaths send Milestones announcements by e-mail to milestones@ canadianmennonite.org, including the congregation name Enns—Peter, 92 (b. Jan. 11, 1927; d. March 9, 2019), and location. When sending death notices, please also Charleswood Mennonite, Winnipeg. include birth date and last name at birth if available. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 9

From Our Leaders We can operate in our heads more easily here, and that is safe. But it is that place where our deep gift of hospitality Walking together to welcome the other and the world’s deep need for a place to belong with Andrea Enns-Gooding purpose and meaning can intersect and make a space for God’s presence here on his year, Mennonite Church Sas- you.” He dips his head down, not to Earth. katchewan has been “deepening check on what mysterious treasure is This is the place where vulnerability Tour walk with one another” as emerging from a curiously soggy jean and love—that kind of love that calls us part of a three-year initiative to call us pocket, but to check his own heart for to take our gifts out of the soggy to deeper life with Christ, ourselves and the courage to bring forward that pockets of our lives—begin to allow for our neighbours. “treasure.” This is the vulnerability that I God to rule and reign in us. We sit in In a report prepared by the regional hope we share with one another in our our meetings, Bible studies and coffee church’s reference group, there is a lives together as believers. times, and hope against hope that we quote by Frederick Buechner: “The This call to deepen our walk with one will learn to love each other a little more place God calls you to is the place where another calls for the kind of courage we deeply. This is not just the work of MC your deep gladness and the world’s deep may not possess in and of ourselves. Saskatchewan, it is the work of all of us hunger meet.” Deepening my walk with a brother or who need to find our people and our So what is our deep gladness as MC sister who may rub me the wrong way place in God’s kingdom. Saskatchewan? At the recent national requires a momentous amount of This is our love story. We want to live mission consultation in Calgary, a group vulnerability. But, because we know that with transparent hope and incandescent of us from Saskatchewan identified that we have a place in Christ (Romans 8:15), grace, making way for the intersection hospitality could be our gift from the and that we are loved (I John 3:1), of God’s great gift of hospitality to us Holy Spirit. We genuinely love to be commissioned (Matthew 28:18-20), and and the deep need of the people around together. In our work projects, our blessed with the Holy Spirit (John us to encounter true acceptance. fundraising efforts together, and any- 14:16-17), we have all we need and are Accepted for hidden treasures and thing else we do, we find wholeness and a uniquely equipped to deepen relation- soggy-jean lives, we welcome all. l deeper understanding of Christ because ships with our brothers and sisters. we have done these tasks together. In helping our neighbours, we are Andrea Enns-Gooding is This is a love story, people. As a able to activate that great Mennonite pastor of Zoar Mennonite parent, there is a moment when your superpower of service. Get out and do! Church, Waldheim, and child stands before you after having Go forth and serve! Carry out acts and a member of the MC breathed out those weighty words, live lives full of social justice. These are Saskatchewan Council. “Mom/Dad, I’ve got something to show all good things. A moment from yesterday

Summer is a time when many set aside time to ex- plore. Pictured are five men on their motorcycles on Railway Street in Morden, Man., in 1913. From left to right on the motorcycles are: Isaac G. Brown, George G. Brown, Jacob E. Dyck, John J. Braun, and an un- known rider. New and familiar places are visited, old friends get reacquainted and new memories and re- lationships are made. Have you ever used the Men- nonite Your Way Directory in your travels? It is “[a] listing of over 1,700 hosts who offer lodging in their homes in over 70 countries.” Text: Conrad Stoesz Photo: Mennonite Heritage Archives

archives.mhsc.ca 10 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

In the Image We returned to the courtroom, and when Clifford’s case was finally called up, the defence lawyer leaned into her In court with ‘Clifford’ role with gusto. When challenged by the prosecutor or the judge, she spoke with Ed Olfert determination. More astounding, I could actually hear her words. ecently, I attended a provincial enough to be recognizable. The ruling came back as favourable as court session. A released offender A break in the morning had five of could be hoped for. Sharon communi- Rfriend, “Clifford” (a pseudonym), us—all with connections to Clifford—in cated with Clifford through the china- had messed up rather significantly. It a circle. Two of us were volunteer sup- cabinet glass until he was led away. As wasn’t a violent offence, but it was the ports for Clifford, one was a Restorative we moved out of the room, she shook third breach of his conditions. It was a Justice staff person, and two others were hands with the lawyer, thanked her and reasonable assumption that the sys- Clifford’s stepfather and sister. I had not acknowledged that it had gone pretty tem would not see Clifford’s actions as met them before. As we chatted, a lawyer well. Clifford would serve some months “cute.” who was passing heard Clifford’s name. in provincial jail but would be offered It had been a while. The business part “Oh, you’re here for Clifford? So am I. a program that would allow him to be of the courtroom was as I had remem- Let’s go talk in the hall!” released daily to his roofing job in the bered, or had imagined. New to me was I assume the lawyer was a legal-aid city. a structure that looked for all the world appointee. She asked us what we could I moved to Sharon, suggested that like a dated china cabinet, complete with tell her that would be useful information perhaps she should consider a role as a tall glass frontage. Except that this china for the court to hear. counsellor. She laughed, and told me that cabinet ran the length of the court area, Clifford’s sister, “Sharon” (a pseudo- she was fully focussed on being a kokum about 10 metres. It took a moment to nym) spoke up passionately. She wanted (a Cree word for grandmother) for her realize that this is the best system we can the court to know more about Clifford’s grandchildren. conjure for herding incarcerated people formational years: the abuse, the addic- In a bleak setting, in a confusing inter- in and out, while keeping them physi- tions around him in the family home, the pretation of justice, I was given a glimpse cally separate from the court officials and fact that no one had ever offered solu- of compassion, determination and hope. staff. If an offender wished a conversation tions or programs beyond incarceration. It was unplanned, unexpected. Holy stuff with his lawyer, both had to bend over Sharon was angry, and it was clear that usually comes that way. l indecorously to where there were small her passion was rooted in her concern holes in the china-cabinet glass. for her younger brother. In her words, Ed Olfert (p2pheo All those who appeared in the china- beyond the passion and desperation, I @sasktel.net) ministers, cabinet windows throughout the sensed a deep wisdom that grew out of and is ministered to, in morning sessions looked incredibly her determination to improve the lot of Saskatchewan. broken. Although the court proceedings anyone who qualified as family. When we showed little enthusiasm for providing asked her how we, as volunteers, could audio to the gathered visitors, the words usefully support Clifford, her suggestions “drugs” and “alcohol” were repeated often were striking. Sharon knew her stuff. Et cetera Global giving The Global Church Sharing Fund is administered by the Deacons Commission of Men- nonite World Conference. The Sharing Fund supported three projects in 2017 and 10 projects in 2018. One of those projects was a new building for the Antakiya Mennonite Church in Raipur, India, dedicated on Dec. 14, 2018.

Source: Courier magazine, April 2019, page 18, and Henk Stenvers, secretary of the Deacons MWC website : “A celebration of family in India.” Commission, greets local Mennonites in Photo: Mennonite World Conference India in December 2018. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 11

Personal Reflection The gift of ecumenism Story and Photo by Mark Diller Harder

n January I returned to St. Jacobs ized, or remembered, that in the heart and contemporary homily in French, (Ont.) Mennonite Church after a of every old city there would be a grand directed primarily at the young adults. Iwonderfully spacious and rich four- ancient Gothic cathedral built over the This historic building was suddenly a month sabbatical filled with so many centuries. They were magnificent, with vibrant present-day worshipping good things. The highlight was the trip their architecture, stained-glass community and we were no longer tour- my wife Rachel and I took to Europe. windows, paintings and stone work, and ists. These cathedrals have life! I eagerly anticipated some of the their stunning acoustics and huge My last week in Europe was spent in Anabaptist sites and history we would organs. It is overwhelming to stand and the Taizé community in south-central encounter, especially in Switzerland, look up. I fell in love with this sacred France. The vision of Protestant founder one of the birthplaces of Anabaptism. It architectural expression, in such Brother Roger in the 1950s was for an was powerful to stand on the banks of contrast to our simple Mennonite ecumenical community of Catholic, the Limmat River in Zurich and read worship spaces. But in my mind, I had multiple Protestant denominations and the plaque about Felix Manz, the first relegated them to historical buildings occasional Orthodox brothers worship- Anabaptist martyr by drowning. We saw and entered them as a tourist, snapping ping and living a common life together. the home of Conrad Grebel and toured photos and taking in their grandeur. That spirit has led to thousands of the Grossmünster Church, where they Two cathedrals changed that for me. young adults (religious and non-reli- debated Ulrich Zwingli and the Reform- We first entered Chartres Cathedral gious) coming most weeks from around ers. at night and I was immediately struck Europe and the world, seeking the plain by the spiritual warmth lifestyle, daily Bible studies and group of the well-weathered conversations, and the simple yet stones under our feet, profound prayers, silence and Taizé the open spaciousness songs three times a day. above us and the On Thursday night, three North glowing, vibrant American guests (myself and a pastor stained-glass windows. couple from the United States) met with Then we heard the Canadian Brother Emile. He shared singing: a mass was in deeply and honestly about the joys and progress, and prayers challenges of such a diverse community and songs were being of brothers trying to live into this Visitors walking the labyrinth in the Chartres Cathedral, lifted up to God. We ecumenical vision. France. returned the next On my last morning, several new morning in time to take Catholic young adult friends asked if I We saw the inside of the prison walls in a full mass in the small lower crypt, a would accompany them to the early and shackles at Trachselwald Castle in daily discipline of the faithful. Catholic full mass in the smaller crypt. I the Emmental Valley, and worshipped in A week later, daughter Lorena and I had become friends with a German Swiss German at the oldest existing spent an hour touring and taking photos Catholic priest, also on sabbatical. I Mennonite church in the world— in the Rouen Cathedral, with the asked him if it would be okay for me, a Langnau Emmental. These were core highest spire in France. Just before 5 Mennonite, to take the Eucharist. His identity experiences. p.m., we were about to leave when the response was simply: “Do you believe in What I had not anticipated as much bells starting ringing and people started Jesus?” and I joyfully participated in this were the many rich ecumenical encoun- streaming in. We stayed and found act of worship. ters, particularly in Catholic settings. I ourselves in the middle of the All Saints I left Europe with a deep appreciation suspect, as Mennonites, we subcon- Day worship service. There were young of the breadth, diversity and gifts of the sciously carry an inner suspicion of and old, and about 20 priests in white larger church of God. I claim both my other Christian expressions even as we who processed in. The big pipe organ own Anabaptist heritage and faith, and borrow and share so much in common. began and soon the small organ and a yet I can place it alongside a vibrant, We had intentionally planned to visit little singing group led the congrega- living faith shared by Christians around Chartres Cathedral but had not real- tional singing. The priest gave a timely the world in so many expressions. l 12 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

Reflection at the close of the Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Team Harvesting manoomin at ‘Shooniversity’ By Chuck Wright Christian Peacemakers Team

his last summer (2018), my team- simply, “To express gratitude.” court case . . . they’ve been sure to cross mate Kathy Moorhead Thiessen Some years ago, industrial harvesters their t’s and dot their i’s.” Tand I travelled to Grassy Nar- began coming into the area and destroy- We remembered the role CPT played in rows in northwestern Ontario with ing the manoomin fields. Airboats with this struggle for Grassy Narrows’ sover- Rizwan Shoukat, a former delegate and large scoopers would blaze through the eignty. CPT’s relationship with Grassy Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) fields, often harvesting the rice when the Narrows was forged just before their supporter, to learn about and experi- plants were too young. This practice historic logging blockade began in ence the process of harvesting wild rice ended when elders in Grassy Narrows and December 2002. “CPT was really helpful, (manoomin). Drenched after a two-hour Wabaseemoong declared that manoomin especially with those loggers,” Shoon boat ride across the choppy waters of in their territories could only be harvested recalled. “As soon as [the loggers] saw Grassy Narrows Lake, we pulled onto using traditional methods. someone else with a camera, you could the beach to set up camp for harvesting According to Shoon, few people in see an immediate change in their face.” manoomin with Andrew “Shoon” Kee- Grassy Narrows harvest wild rice After a day of harvesting and a couple watin, a long-time friend of CPT. anymore. While he grew up with the of days of roasting and “dancing” on the Shoon explained to us that, until late harvest, today’s young people in Grassy rice, we did not have a lot to show for it. in the 1980s, this peninsula jutting into Narrows have not. However, only a few However, it has caused us as a team to Shoe Lake was the location his family days later, neighbouring Wabaseemoong develop a new appreciation for this would travel to in order to harvest First Nation held an annual wild-rice Anishinaabe cultural tradition, and to manoomin each year. About a dozen camp, in which the community had reflect on its richness and fragility, as well tents would be set up at this site for pooled its resources to teach and main- as the role solidarity can play in enabling several days of harvest. The scattered tain this tradition. Shoon said that he traditional practices to continue in our stalks of manoomin along the shoreline would like to see the Grassy Narrows colonial context. l recall the intergenerational encamp- leadership initiate something similar. ments on the beach. While sitting around the campfire, one Originally appeared in the January-March Using our hands and two short pieces of us asked Shoon if he thought the 2019 issue of the Christian Peacemaker of wood, we picked and batted the ripe government was now respecting har- Teams newsletter. Reprinted with permis- grain heads into the bottom of our vesting, hunting, and fishing rights on sion. CPT closed the Indigenous Peoples canoes. Shoon remembers how the older Grassy Narrows traditional territory. He Solidarity program on March 31 due to a men would sing powwow songs to the pointed to a Supreme Court ruling he was lack of funding, although two delegations rice as they collected it into their canoes. part of (Grassy Narrows First Nation vs. will make trips to Grassy Narrows this When one of us asked why, he responded Ontario, 2014) and said, “Ever since the summer.

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES SOLIDARITY TEAM PHOTO Andrew ‘Shoon’ Keewatin, a friend of CPT, and Rizwan Shoukat, a former delegate and Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) supporter, harvest manoomin (wild rice) at Grassy Narrows in northwestern Ontario last year. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 13 news Two centuries of worship, a century of service Rainham Mennonite Church continues to meet in God’s name despite dwindling numbers RAINHAM MENNONITE CHURCH FILE PHOTO Rainham Mennonite Church has been By Maria H. Klassen worshipping for more than two centuries. Special to Canadian Mennonite

or more than a century, the women of 1908, followed by electric lights in 1935. In fact, the appeal of the church con- FRainham Mennonite Church—a tiny There are no longer horse sheds on the tinues to be the warm family atmosphere congregation just off of Highway 3 near property. A basement was added, as well among the congregation. l the north shore of Lake Erie in south- as a new main entrance and a basement western Ontario—have continued a kitchen. New windows, a new roof and sewing circle, one that is now augmented new siding followed. At one time there ΛΛNews brief by women from the community. The was a school next door. Banquet raises $5,300 for group still quilts regularly during the fall Revival meetings were held in the early and winter. years. Sunday school was first organized Canadian Mennonite But the congregation, just a few kilo- in 1883, the women’s first sewing circle metres from the village of Selkirk, dates started in 1918, and summer Bible Around 70 people gathered to show their back much further than that; it has been school began in 1936. The church spon- support for Canadian Mennonite at its meeting continuously for 225 years. sored Mennonites coming from Russia 48th annual fundraising banquet, held In 1792, Jacob Hoover came to Ontario from 1924 to 1926, and refugees from this year in Steinbach, Man., on April 6. from Pennsylvania and purchased a thou- southeast Asia in 1980. After a dinner of farmer’s sausage and sand hectares of land along the north Worship services continue at the vereneki, and a performance by Accent, a shore of Lake Erie. The following year, his church every Sunday morning. women’s vocal ensemble, Elmer family, which included several sons and Descendants from the first settlers— Hildebrand, CEO of Golden West their families, moved to the area. A house Hoovers, Yagers, Werners and Broadcasting and a CM board member, church was started shortly after. Dawsons—are still active in the church. conducted a short interview with This area was very sparsely settled In 1999, when Dunnville Mennonite Andrew Unger, writer of popular satire until 1816, at which time more families Church closed its doors permanently, website, The Daily Bonnet. Hildebrand moved to the area from Vineland and several families joined the Rainham con- announced that CM is financially stable Niagara. Common family names gregation. and headed in a good direction. Tobi included Shank, Swartz, Strickler, Sherk, In past years, joint services were also Thiessen, publisher, spoke about CM’s Werner, Miller and Byler. held with Cheapside Brethren in Christ importance and its reach outside of An 1836 deed granted a half-hectare Church, but this church has also closed. Mennonite circles. Prominent of this land to the Mennonite Society Because of its current size, Rainham Mennonites like writer Miriam Toews (specifically Benjamin Hoover, Henry Mennonite hasn’t had a full-time minis- and former cabinet minister Jane Philpott Miller and John Fry) for a church and a ter since 2014, relying on interim minis- have been making headlines lately, and cemetery. ters and guest speakers for the last five many people have been turning to CM as Rainham Mennonite Church, named years. These have included John Veens- a resource for these topics, she said. after the township it is located in, was tra from the Christian Reformed Church “When the general public wants to know the only church in the area, with Michael in the area, and Mennonites Doug something about Mennonites, they will Shank listed as the minister. The original Amstutz and Max Kennel. often end up on our website.” “These church meetinghouse was destroyed by Last year, a sermon series walked con- events are valuable because they give the fire, and the current building was built gregants through every book of the board and staff an opportunity to get to close by on land donated in 1870. Bible. This year, the sermon series is know people in their local communities,” Changes to the church building took looking at how great works of western Thiessen said. “We are deeply grateful for place over the years to make it still usable literature—by Augustine, Nietzsche, the additional financial support that today. There are no longer separate Dante and Annie Dillard’s Holy the readers provide when they attend these entrances for men and women; two Firm—can help them along their walk of events.” The event raised $5,300 for CM. wood stoves have been replaced by a faith. Congregants stay after the service —By Nicolien Klassen-Wiebe furnace; and gas lights were installed in to enjoy coffee and discussion time. 14 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

‘It’s all worship’ MC Eastern Canada delegates celebrate God at work amidst new structures and sobering financial realities CM PHOTOS BY D. MICHAEL HOSTETLER By Janet Bauman Markham Christian Worship Centre, Eastern Canada Correspondent Markham, Ont., a Tamil-speaking congre- BADEN, ONT. gation with roots in Sri Lanka (PHOTO ABOVE) and Refuge de Paix, Sherbrooke, epresentatives of 107 congregations • Refuge de Paix, Sherbrooke, Que., a Que., a Spanish-speaking congregation Rfrom Ontario, Quebec and New Spanish-speaking congregation minis- ministering to Hispanic refugees (PHOTO Brunswick gathered at Steinmann Men- tering to Hispanic refugees. BELOW) are welcomed into full member- nonite Church for Mennonite Church • Markham Christian Worship Centre, ship in MC Eastern Canada by MC Eastern Eastern Canada’s annual church gather- Markham, Ont., a Tamil-speaking con- Canada moderator Arli Klassen, left, and ing on April 26 and 27, framed around gregation with roots in Sri Lanka, that Henry Paetkau, right, MC Canada interim the theme of “Deepening our relation- shares space with two other Mennonite executive minister. ship with God.” churches. There were opportunities to sing and pray, eat and socialize, listen and share, Gratitude and prayers of blessing were reflect, discern and make decisions. offered to Brian Bauman, MC Eastern According to David Martin, the regional Canada’s mission minister for 16 years, church’s executive minister, “It’s all who plans to retire in December. Bauman worship,” as delegates look for and name helped to sharpen mission priorities of God’s mission and vision in all the making disciples, planting churches, church does. welcoming new Canadian churches and April Yamasaki, writer and pastor from working alongside marginalized com- churches as early benefits. British Columbia, used Psalm 27 to munities. He encouraged calling leaders Jason Martin, director of International explore what a deeper relationship with out of these communities and shifting Witness for MC Canada, reassured dele- God might look like. Noting the direct toward a perspective of “mission with” gates that International Witness work language in the psalm, she encouraged instead of “mission to.” continues despite funding changes. He people to come to God just as they are in Norm Dyck was introduced and clarified that at least half comes through days of trouble as well as when things are blessed as the new mission minister. His “relational funding” generated by going well. It is not enough to talk about passion and experience in disciple-mak- Witness Support Teams that form rela- God, like in the first six verses of the ing and cross-cultural relationships were tionships with workers, generate finan- psalm, but it is also important to dialogue highlighted. Currently serving as mission cial support from local churches, and with God, like in the remaining verses. engagement minister with the regional offer advocacy and communication The psalm leaves room for lamenting and church, Dyck called for “truly reciprocal links. The remainder comes from MC waiting for God’s timing, but in the end it relationships,” recognizing that “God is Canada. He also showed a video intro- moves to a place of trust in God. already present and active in commun- ducing several workers and what they Worship leaders Mike Erb and Anneli ities, neighbourhoods and street do. Loepp Thiessen, part of the team devel- corners.” Sean East, MC Eastern Canada’s finan- oping Voices Together, a new collection cial manager, noted that balancing the of songs and worship resources for Men- Church business and reports books for last year meant drawing on rev- nonite churches, led singing from this This is the first full year of the restruc- enues from special funds, something that collection, with support from an ensem- tured relationship between the five won’t be possible in the future, as those ble of musicians. regional church bodies and MC Canada, funds will be depleted. He presented a MC Eastern Canada staff and volun- with emphasis on the local congregation $2.3 million budget for the coming year, teers celebrated being church together as the foundational body for worship, explaining that due to a $100,000 decline and the many ways God is at work among nurture and mission. Living into the new in undesignated contributions from and through them. structure is still a work-in-progress, but churches to the operations of the regional Two congregations were welcomed Henry Paetkau, interim executive minis- church last year—part of a half-million- into full membership in MC Eastern ter of MC Canada, cited improved com- dollar decline in the past decade—some Canada: munications and stronger regional cuts will be made this year to external Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 15

partners, like camps and schools, and Arli Klassen, MC Eastern Canada’s bylaws to reflect new legal requirements some administrative staff time. Delegates moderator, led delegates through the and clarity around membership. l approved the proposed budget. process of approving an updated set of

MC Eastern Canada leaders issued by the Truth and Reconciliation leadership minister, and Jean Lehn Epp share their passions Commission (TRC). As a result, four shared an update on the discernment for peace, justice, youth regional TRC working groups were formed process begun around youth ministry ministry to connect with their Indigenous neigh- after calls for support in this area. Lehn bours in a variety of ways. Inspired by Epp, hired a year ago as interim coordin- By Janet Bauman Jesus, coordinating group representatives ator of youth ministry resources, hosted Eastern Canada Correspondent called people to “offer our loaves and a one-day consultation on April 6, to BADEN, ONT. fishes” to counteract denial, shame and address the challenges of inviting youth powerlessness in the face of a huge into active church participation. They t Mennonite Church Eastern Can- challenge. concluded that “programs are not Aada’s church gathering on April 26 • Representatives from the Palestine/ enough,” and developed a “provocative and 27, delegates heard reports from Israel Working Group reported on how it proposition” for this important work staff and volunteers passionate about has worked at education and advocacy by going forward: “Investing in intentional, recent initiatives: hosting lectures and training in a land unconditional relationships with youth, exercise similar to the Kairos blanket exer- walking with them towards a fearless • Attendees heard a report from repre- cise used in education about Indigenous faith in Christ Jesus.” sentatives of the newly formed Truth and history in Canada. The group sees the Lehn Epp’s contract was extended for Reconciliation Coordinating Group. At church as an heir to the original mission of another year, in part to lead a youth last year’s gathering, attendance at an God, through the Israelites, to be a blessing ministry “dream team” in a year of exploratory meeting demonstrated that to all the people of the Earth, including the discernment and living into what this many people in MC Eastern Canada Palestinians. proposition means. Lehn Epp said, “We want to respond to the 94 calls to action • Marilyn Rudy-Froese, church lit a fire, and we won’t let it go out.” l From Colombia to Kitchener MWC general secretary relocates to Canada

Mennonite World Conference

eneral secretary César Mennonite Central Committee, will GGarcía and executive remain in place for Anna Sorgius, assistant Sandra Báez Rojas of chief administrative officer; Nelson Mennonite World Conference Martinez, administrative assistant; (MWC) relocated to Ontario in and Pablo Stucky, Andean region the dead of winter to work out regional representative. Chief com- of the Kitchener office. munications officer Kristina Toews “We acknowledge that wher- PHOTO BY WILHELM UNGER also moved to Canada in February, ever the general secretary is César García, second from left, and other Mennonite to work out of a home office in located, there are advantages World Conference leaders receive thanks from the Kenya Abbotsford, B.C. and disadvantages,” says MWC Mennonite Church, which hosted General Council meetings Living close to Toronto, with its president J. Nelson Kraybill. in Limuru, Kenya. busy international airport, will im- “With this move, there is a loss ­prove the general secretary’s avail­ of the symbolism of our general ability to the whole Mennonite com- secretary coming from and living in the American hub makes the job more sus- munion. l Global South. On balance, however, the tainable.” greater ease of global travel from a North The Bogotá office, in collaboration with 16 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

MC Eastern Canada apologizes for causing pain to abuse survivors Canadian Mennonite

ennonite Church Eastern Canada dential on Oct. 12, 2001. Further, it came forth Mennonite Church, in Toronto, Mrecently offered a public apology to our attention that a listing of ordina- and has served as a volunteer in several acknowledging missteps in how it tion anniversaries in the Discernment community organizations. handled a case of reported sexual mis- Documents for the 2015 annual delegate In a statement on behalf of the Dan- conduct that dates back more than 30 meeting incorrectly included Jantzi. We forth Mennonite Church Council, Pastor years. regret that this error went unnoticed.” Tim Reimer wrote: “When Dalton and In the mid-1990s, the regional church A correction was included in MC Carol began attending in 1995, Danforth began investigating complaints against Eastern Canada’s 2019 annual report and put in place its own accountability com- Dalton Jantzi, an ordained minister, con- Rudy-Froese issued a verbal apology at mittee, in addition to the reporting struc- cerning allegations of misconduct dating the regional church’s annual gathering on tures put in place by MC Eastern Canada. back to 1981. The complaints were inves- April 27. For the first five years, Dalton took part tigated and deemed legitimate by MC The news release continues: “We rec- in no church activities except attending Eastern Canada, leading to a probation ognize that these failures caused further Sunday worship. Danforth’s accountabil- period and an accountability structure pain to those hurt by Jantzi’s sexual mis- ity committee met for a few years after set up for Jantzi, who admitted respon- conduct, and confusion within the this, and the pastor and caring team sibility. broader church regarding Jantzi’s cre- stayed in contact with him beyond this. MC Eastern Canada’s Leadership dential. As trust grew, and relationships Commission put ongoing limitations on “MC Eastern Canada apologizes for developed, the congregation gradually his ministry, which Jantzi contested. In these failures and for the further pain invited him to use his gifts in more and October 2001, the regional church ter- they have caused. In the spirit of trans- more contexts. . . . minated his ministerial credentials. (To parency, a summary overview of actions “We would therefore offer as fuller read previous reports on this case, visit taken in regard to Jantzi’s credential is context to MC Eastern Canada’s state- canadianmennonite.org/jantzi- available for review from MC Eastern ment, the acknowledgement of Dalton’s termination.) Canada. compliance with stipulations, and Dan- An MC “The courage of victims who come forth’s decades-long journey of learning Eastern forward to tell their stories helps us as a how to be both vigilant and rehabilitative. ” Canada news church to learn and move forward in However, MAP claims that “[f]urther release, issued addressing clergy sexual misconduct and serious details about his abuse, as well as March 27, to facilitate healing and recovery. We are additional victims, have been reported to states: committed to learning from past mis- the MAP List. Our understanding is that “In November 2018, a survivor of takes, and finding a just and redemptive there were also uninvestigated com- sexual misconduct perpetrated in the path forward. plaints against Jantzi from the low- 1980s by formerly ordained MC Eastern “We are committed to investigate any income housing unit where he worked. Canada minister Dalton Jantzi contacted allegation of ministerial misconduct . . . We’ve heard he has now resigned Marilyn Rudy-Froese, MC Eastern immediately, will transparently report to from the board of one organization as Canada church leadership minister. our constituency any disciplinary actions part of the fallout from our post.” (See Along with a volunteer from Mennonite and sanctions regarding ministerial mis- more at bit.ly/2UVBi4c.) l Abuse Prevention List (MAP), they conduct, and will proactively promote requested clarification regarding the awareness and educational initiatives, so MC Eastern Canada urges survivors of status of Jantzi’s ministerial credential that persons of all ages can safely partici- clergy sexual misconduct to contact and his engagement in ministry. pate in the activities of our faith com- Marilyn Rudy-Froese to share their story “Upon receiving these concerns, MC munities.” or concern by phone toll-free at 1-855- Eastern Canada conducted a thorough Both Jantzi and the survivor were con- 476-2500, ext. 704, or by email to review of past disciplinary actions related tacted but neither wished to comment on [email protected]. For more to Jantzi. This review concluded that MC the apology. information, see also “Reporting Eastern Canada failed to communicate While no longer serving in an official sexual misconduct by church adequately to the entire constituency the ministerial position, Jantzi has been a leaders” at bit.ly/2vySkuK.  termination of Jantzi’s ministerial cre- long-time participant in the life of Dan- Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 17

Finding the balance between grace and responsibility Saskatoon couple look back on first eight months of intentional community life

By Donna Schulz Saskatchewan Correspondent

t’s been eight months since Thomas and Household chores can also potentially cooking and cleaning schedules for the ITerri Lynn Friesen opened their Saska- be a source of conflict. One person may coming week, to talk about what needs toon home as The Vine and Table inten- spend an hour-and-a-half cleaning the fixing in the house, and to update one tional community. For Terri Lynn, those bathroom, while another does the job in another about guests who may be joining eight months have been “an interesting 10 minutes. To ensure the house is them for meals or overnight. It’s also a season . . . of challenge and great joy.” cleaned to a certain standard, the Friesens time to pray together. “We pray for each The Friesens thought their house would introduced chore cards detailing what other and for the world,” says Terri Lynn. be a great home for students, but, because needs to be cleaned in each area of the Everyone in their household has lived they directed their outreach in community before. “It’s not an mainly toward their peers, all four expectation, but it helps,” she says, of the couple’s new housemates adding, “The experience of [having are working at jobs or careers. lived in] previous community Thomas, who works as a spirit- house situations is really valuable ual director, and Terri Lynn, who in terms of knowing how to live is on maternity leave from her job vulnerably and deeply in commun- as pastor of faith and community ity with people.” at Osler Mennonite Church, live in For Terri Lynn, being pregnant a self-contained apartment on the has added to the challenges of their second floor of their century-old first year at The Vine and Table. home. Another married couple The couple’s first child is due this occupies the main-floor bedroom PHOTO COURTESY OF TERRI LYNN FRIESEN month. Although she felt unwell and two single housemates have Friends and neighbours join residents at The Vine and for much of her first trimester, she rooms on the third floor. Table for a birthday celebration. says that she appreciated “just “The table is at the centre of receiving grace from housemates. things because eating is central to . . . Their excitement carried me what we do,” says Terri Lynn. “We eat house. through when I wasn’t very excited.” together five nights a week.” Housemates Members are expected to have weekly One of the things she feared about share cooking responsibilities, with each chores done by Thursday’s household becoming a parent was being isolated. one taking a weekly turn at meal prepara- meeting. “We’re always trying to find a “That will not be a reality with welcoming tion. balance between grace and responsibility this little person into the world,” she says. Food has the potential to be a source of in terms of doing chores and getting them Although becoming a mother is making conflict. “We have very different experi- done on time,” says Terri Lynn. her think about her identity, she says, ences of food ethics,” Terri Lynn says. One experiment they have tried has “Any time our identity is challenged is an “Some have spent a lot of time thinking been an “airing of mandatory grievances,” opportunity to return to our identity in about food, others just really love says Terri Lynn. She describes it as “a safe Christ.” bananas.” place to mention pet peeves.” These Terri Lynn says she is grateful for the In an effort to ethically source as much would likely include “the things we let go experience of the past eight months. She of their food as possible, The Vine and of in order to live graciously,” she says. looks forward to growing the community Table has a large backyard garden that Being able to talk about them hopefully in the future, both as more housemates supplies vegetables for their table in prevents minor irritations from develop- are added to The Vine and Table, and as summer and fall. They purchase root ing into full-blown conflicts. housemates move away and they main- vegetables in bulk at the nearby farmers The Thursday meeting, or community tain relationships with those who used to market, and they buy meat from a local night, gives housemates an opportunity live with them. “It’s a real gift to be able to farmer. to check in with one another, to plan share life in this way,” she says. l 18 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

Breaking through the screen Mennonite institutions discuss parenting in the digital age

By Nicolien Klassen-Wiebe Manitoba Correspondent PHOTO BY DAVID STOESZ WINNIPEG WMEMS Bedson students in grades 6 to 8 participate in a coding club, where they creens. start using computers in Kindergarten. learn to write code for building websites. S They are what many people look at The older grades have digital arts classes to check the time, talk to their friends, as part of an enrichment program, and prepare for meetings and unwind at the students learn how to design, code and for individuals and families in Manitoba. end of the day. But it’s not just those who use different devices and programs. It organized an event on April 11, also can buy devices for themselves who are Starting in Grade 6, students can bring entitled “Raising children in the digital using them. Children are now figuring their own tablets or smartphones to world,” held at École Charleswood out how to work phones and tablets school and are encouraged to use them School in Winnipeg. More than 300 before they can even walk or talk. for certain activities. people gathered to listen to a presenta- Growing up is a whole new game for And there’s a reason for this. Digital tion on the topic by Dr. Gordon Neufeld, children today, and it’s what is behind media and technology allow students to a developmental psychologist and best- those screens that parents need to know learn in new ways, collaborate on proj- selling author based in Vancouver. about. Several Mennonite institutions in ects, express themselves and their crea- “Those [attendees] that spoke to me Winnipeg have made it their mission to tivity, and connect with their friends. and my colleagues were very apprecia- do just this. But digital media must be used tive and grateful for the message, and The Bedson campus of Winnipeg Menno­ responsibly. The school has a policy that quite inspired,” said Terry Warburton, nite Elementary and Middle Schools the use of personal devices is only the clinical director of RoH who helped (WMEMS) hosted an event entitled allowed under the direction of a teacher organize the event. “Raising children in the digital world” on and is off-limits during lunchtime and She said that one of Eden’s goals as an Feb. 21. School psychologist Sarah recess. “We want kids to spend their organization is to provide resources to Juchnowski and Constable Orlando lunch face-to-face,” Stoesz said. the community, including supporting Buduhan, a Winnipeg Police community And with good reason. Despite the parents in their relationships with their relations officer, talked about the impact many contributions technology makes, children. “Parents are concerned about of screen time on children’s mental health it also has negative effects on safety and their child’s use of their devices and the and safety. Around 90 parents gathered to mental health, according to Dr. Jean things they’re accessing online, and not learn about the risks of technology and Twenge, whose 2018 study of eighth, sure what they should do [while] feeling what they can do to keep their children 10th and 12th graders in the United a little bit helpless,” she said. safe. States found that less screen time correl- Neufeld approaches everything in the David Stoesz, principal of WMEMS ated with higher happiness levels. The context of what matters most: relation- Bedson, said he hears of children whose more hours of screen time per week, the ships. He teaches parents that the main parents don’t let them go to the park or lower the individual’s happiness and reason children crave a digital connection ride their bikes with their friends because psychological well-being. is to bridge separation, so parents need to they’re afraid of what could happen. “We Digital devices often shorten young nurture a meaningful connection with have fears of the dangers our kids can get people’s time spent sleeping, exercising their children now more than ever. into outside and we don’t fear enough the and going outside. They can expose them “Dr. Neufeld’s message reminds us things that are right in front of us,” he to strangers and suspicious content, but why this is happening, helps us make said. “The kind of dangers in the backyard they can also increase anxiety and men- sense of what’s going on in the child, and are minimal compared to the dangers tal-health issues. then finds ways to move into nurturing kids face inside with these devices.” This is where Recovery of Hope (RoH) the relationship,” Warburton said. “It’s a He said the school wanted to host the speaks into the issue. RoH, a program of very hopeful message, because it’s always event to engage parents with relevant issues the Mennonite mental health and well- about relationships, and that it’s never that are affecting their children’s lives. ness organization Eden Health Care Serv- too late to start.” l Students at WMEMS Bedson already ices, provides counselling and education Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 19

Q & A ΛΛNews brief ‘Trinitarian theology for What to expect at MC Canada’s a radical church’ annual general meeting? Katie Doke Sawatzky Mennonite Church Canada TORONTO—“Our task this evening is to go in pursuit of a mystery and its implica- Q. What is the purpose of Q. What reports will be tions for how we believe and how we live the delegate session at presented at this our lives.” With these words John D. Gathering 2019? annual general Rempel, ThD, began his lecture, “An A. Delegates will review and meeting? impossible task: Trinitarian theology for ratify Joint Council actions; A. An update on imple­ a radical church?” at the Toronto receive and review reports from mentation of the new MC Mennonite Theological Centre on March our programs—International Canada structure. Reports 14. Rempel explored Trinitarian thinking Witness, Indigenous-Settler from MC Canada programs: from the fourth century to the 20th, Relations and CommonWord—as well as International Witness, Indigenous-Settler noting the consistent challenges brought the regional churches; and act on any Relations and CommonWord. Reports from against it from “un-Trinitarian expressions recommendations coming from Joint regional churches. An update on the MC of belief.” Un-Trinitarian thinking, Rempel Council or regional churches. Canada communications strategy. A report said, results in an account of the drama They will also review and assess progress on the inaugural MC Canada mission of the Lord’s Supper that ultimately in implementing the new MC Canada consultation, which took place in Calgary involves only one actor: humans. structure, elect executive officers of Joint from March 29 to 31. Rempel’s most constructive claims were Council, and confirm auditors. worked out through an account of four Q. Are there key decisions that will 20th-century thinkers, including John Q. Who are the delegates under the be made? Howard Yoder and Jurgen Moltmann. new structure? A. MC Canada is still living into the new While all were critical of the tradition, and A. Congregations no longer select or send structure. No actions or recommendations thus “unruly Trinitarians,” these four theo- delegates. Delegates are now appointed by have come from the regional churches. logians nonetheless remained account- the five regional churches. Six members of Approval of the finances and of the content able to Trinitarian faith, Rempel said. By the board of directors of each regional and schedule of future gatherings are the doing so, the four demonstrate that the church, five delegates appointed by the decisions to be made at this time. doctrine of the Trinity, rather than being regional church, and additional delegates a form of antiquated and abstract meta- based on regional church membership (one Q. Are there other things to look physics, is a “way of thinking [that] has for every thousand members) make up the forward to during this session? shown itself able to hold together in a delegates sent to MC Canada gatherings. A. The annual general meeting is scheduled dynamic relationship, the Bible’s witness for the morning of June 29. In the afternoon, to God’s self-revelation, the creed as its Q. Is anything different under the Gathering 2019 officially kicks off with symbol, and its reception across the ages.” new MC Canada structure? worship that will include a session with guest More than just a rich historical and theo- A. In 2017, the regional churches cove- speaker Elaine Heath and the installation of logical analysis, Rempel’s lecture was nanted together to constitute MC Canada to Doug Klassen as executive minister of MC offered equally as admonition. Addressing nurture a nationwide Anabaptist identity. It Canada. l the next generation, Rempel said: “Take is now the five regional churches (MC British the torch, those of you who are in the Columbia, MC Alberta, MC Saskatchewan, Registration for Gathering 2019 is now generation that is now taking over. Meet MC Manitoba and MC Eastern Canada) that open! Visit ignitegathering2019 us at the centre-point of the gospel and make up MC Canada and collectively set the .ca/registration for the registra- then trace out faithful ways of thinking agenda and program for MC Canada. The tion guidelines and link.  and living that speak out of and into your annual general meeting will include reports generation.” from the regional churches on how this —Toronto Mennonite agenda is being carried forward locally, Theological Centre regionally, nationwide and globally. 20 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019 people Join the (fashion) revolution By Rachel Bergen Contributing Editor

ho made my clothes? organize the week’s activities, including W That’s what the organizers of the a gala and screening of the documentary globally observed Fashion Revolution film The True Cost. Week want people to ask themselves the “Each of the 60 people who showed up next time they put on an outfit or choose for the gala seemed absolutely delighted what clothing to buy. to be there, which was very gratifying to Fashion Revolution began in response me as the host,” she says. to the Rana Plaza building collapse in The week wrapped up with a clothing Elise Epp, the regional coordinator for Bangladesh, which killed 1,138 people swap and fashion show, which featured Fashion Revolution Winnipeg, wore a and injured another 2,500 in 2013. Since locally made and thrifted looks, proving Horses Atelier jumpsuit to the Fashion then, people from all over the world have to onlookers that thrifted clothes are Revolution Week gala in Winnipeg. called on brands to take action to improve fashionable. working conditions for garment workers. PHOTOS BY The advocacy group says these changes Fashion revolutionaries MATTHEW are slowly happening. More brands are Ethical fashion is more than just a week of SAWATZKY being open about where their clothes are events for Epp and Janzen. Both have made Anna-Marie made, more manufacturers are making pledges to make or buy almost exclusively Janzen wore their factories safer, and more producers from local, ethical companies or a dress she are being seen and heard. second-hand. made herself But Fashion Revolution says there’s “I make over 50 percent of my clothes, from thrifted still a lot of work to be done. but I also love seeking out brands that fabric at That’s where people like Elise Epp and are doing innovative things with how the Fashion Anna-Marie Janzen come in. The pair clothing and shoes can be made,” Epp Revolution were involved in the planning and execu- says. Week gala in tion of the first Winnipeg events to mark Janzen makes a living off of mending Winnipeg. Fashion Revolution Week from April 22 people’s clothes, but her sewing to 28. machines, fabric and other tools of the The week of advocacy began with a trade are thrifted. doing their own little fight,” she says. mend/make-in at a Winnipeg outlet mall Much of her wardrobe is thrifted or “Bringing us all together, we can amplify on April 22, at which around 30 people bought from ethical companies. “We [in and give us a bigger voice in the com- embroidered, sewed, knitted, spun and the Fashion Revolution world] always munity.” mended in the middle of the mall in an say that the most sustainable thing in While some might feel that buying effort to protest what they say is an your wardrobe is what you already have,” ethical clothing is out of their price unethical “fast fashion” industry. she says. “I’m a big advocate for mending range, the duo say that cultivating an Janzen, 31, is a member of Winnipeg’s and making loved clothes last. I don’t do ethical wardrobe means buying fewer Hope Mennonite Church and the owner a lot of purchasing in general.” items that last longer. of Reclaim Mending, a small business Epp’s involvement in the week-long “Instead of buying a lot of bad-quality that offers sewing lessons, customevents made her want to go a step things, you use all of that money to buy a pieces, clothes mending and alterations. further. few good quality things that you actually She says it was incredible to see so many “This Fashion Revolution Week has like and are made of better quality people show up to fly in the face of cap- made me think more about the next step materials that last longer,” Janzen says. italism: “We wanted to create a space of my sustainable fashion journey,” she They hope that more Mennonites will where we could gather as a community says. “I think it is to consume less. I want join them in calling for a fashion revolu- of makers and menders to protest ‘fast to be more conscious and ask myself, ‘Do tion. fashion’ and consumerism.” I actually need that?’ ” “If we claim to be people of peace, and Epp, 32, is a member of Toronto It also helped her realize the power of that’s a big part of our identity as Men- United Mennonite Church and served as the collective in calling for change. nonites, but our dollars are supporting the regional coordinator for Winnipeg’s “Through these events I’ve met so many such violence, then we’re not living up to Fashion Revolution Week. She helped people I didn’t know before, who are our own ethos,” Janzen says. l Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 21

affects relationship [as in families, work- Mediating in the church places, churches]; also on how the parties can have healthy ongoing processes and structures for addressing their differen- Dawson Creek lawyer works in conflict, transformation c e s .” He uses a variety of techniques to get By Amy Rinner Waddell people to engage in their conflict instead B.C. Correspondent of trying to win, avoid or compromise. “There are ways to get people to inte- s a lawyer for more than 40 years, grate,” he says. “There are ways to get AWayne Plenert has seen his share of people to accept a truce, then to work on interpersonal conflicts in the secular things.” world. But, now retired and a member of He acknowledges the work of John Paul Northgate Anabaptist Fellowship of Lederach, a Mennonite scholar known for Dawson Creek, B.C., he believes that his writing on conflict resolution and trans‑ conflicts also are inevitable in faith com- formation, in explaining the stages of munities and are too often destructive, conflict transformation: with damaging fallout. His interest in mediation started in • First is peacemaking (a truce). 1982, when he took a Bible and law • Then peacekeeping (using the truce to course offered by what is now Anabap- allow people to move on, being more tist Mennonite Biblical Seminary in mid-term in focus). Elkhart, Ind., and realized this might be • Finally, peacebuilding (developing pro- a good connection between his faith and cesses and structures with long-term his work. PHOTO COURTESY OF WAYNE PLENERT goals). “From early on, I wanted to connect Wayne Plenert uses a variety of tech- my work and faith, and the intersection niques to get people to engage in their Plenert also points to the Apostle Paul, is conflict transformation,” says Plenert, conflict instead of trying to win, avoid or who shows an example of working through who was president of the B.C. Mediator compromise. conflict in Philippians 4:2-3, which, he Roster Society and then vice-chair of the believes, illustrates the principles of medi- Mediate B.C. Society. He has also trained ation systems. Paul wrote to the church, and mentored mediators in B.C. and the noting that two women in leadership of Alberta. the Philippian church, Euodia and Synty- In church conflict, like any other area, business che, were experiencing some kind of con- he says that people generally feel the need of faith flict. Paul doesn’t take sides but urges the to win (“I am right; you are wrong”), or two women to get along, and he appoints avoid (“Let’s ignore this, or change a neutral party who he perceives would be churches or conferences”). Mediation the sociology behind it all,” he says. “They acceptable to both sides to help them sort does not feel natural, he says, because the think the problem is only about religion out their differences. human brain is wired to end conflict and faith, not about how people behave, Paul demonstrates how good leaders either by winning or avoiding, the “fight and do not link the behaviours by Chris- can encourage cooperation, appoint medi- or flight” response, and people and groups tians with these patterns.” ators and maintain neutrality, all while generally “escalate against” the other side When things get serious enough between encouraging a focus on the larger goals of rather than “engage with” the other. conflicting parties, often someone else— their church. l “This model is also about blame,” he or the system—may find a way for those in explains. “Our instincts are to look to the conflict to face each other. Plenert is called past. This involves grief, dysfunction and in to lead a meeting, known as mediation sometimes toxicity. Relationships are when it is about a dispute, and facilitation transformed for the worse.” when it is about broader unhealthy situa- While conflicts are inevitable, Plenert tions. finds that addressing them in the church “My goal is getting people to consider community can be particularly chal- a future focus and, to the greatest appro- lenging. priate extent, work on their problems “The problem is that too many in the together,” he says. “This may involve the church, including leadership, do not see specific issue of the dispute, or, if it 22 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

Sourdough spirituality Saskatoon baker uses bread as a vehicle for change

Story and Photos by Donna Schulz the Saskatchewan Correspondent business SASKATOON of faith

aking bread is more than just a busi- the fridge. Bness for Joel Kroeker. It’s also a way to “Sourdough is sort of like a pet,” he Each loaf is stencilled and then slashed to further important conversations. says. “The bigger it is, the more you need allow for rising while baking. With a deftness that comes from rep- to feed it.” For this reason he intention- etition, he slides another two loaves of ally keeps the starters small, scooping bread into the oven. By the time he fin- out what’s not needed and storing it for City Park neighbourhood of Saskatoon, ishes for the day he will have baked 20 later use in pancakes or waffles. and drop by his home to pick up their loaves and mixed another batch of dough Prior to starting his own home-based loaves. About eight of his 60 subscribers for the next day’s orders. business, Kroeker worked in a bakery. “It “prefer the convenience of having it “I do all the mixing by hand,” he says. was a learning time for me,” he says. He delivered,” he says. “Today’s bake was 16 kilograms of dough. acquired the basics of sourdough baking When asked how his faith in Christ Each loaf weighs 800 grams before from a book but says that, while “books informs his business Kroeker, who baking.” Although he has contemplated and videos are helpful, there’s something attends Saskatoon’s Wildwood Menno- buying a mixer, he says, “I enjoy mixing. It about working alongside someone and nite Church, says, “The most visible way gives opportunities to be mindful and doing it over and over” that makes the is in the issues that I’m highlighting.” He meditative, and it engages the senses.” learning more effective. stencils a message on each loaf of bread Kroeker bakes only sourdough breads. Last year, he was asked to make 200 he bakes. Those messages “stem from my His four starters are made from whole pizza crusts for a wedding. He saw it as a beliefs,” he says, adding, “It all ties into wheat, spelt, rye and white flours, perfect opportunity to master the art of my image of God and how the world was respectively. He feeds them daily with tossing pizza dough. created to be. I don’t often make explicit flour and water, and lets them ferment in Bæker Kræker, as his customers know my faith perspective. I don’t hide it, but, him, sells his bread by subscription. Most for me, my goal is to further conversa- customers purchase one loaf a week, and tions.” he encourages them to subscribe for at Kroeker’s loaves have featured such least a month. Those who sign up for four simple words and phrases as “Peace” or months are invited to share a pizza meal “Let’s be kind,” but also more challenging with him and his family. messages, including “Implement UNDRIP,” Many of his customers live in Kroeker’s “Basic income is dignity,” and, “Trans

Joel Kroeker mixes sourdough starter at his dining room table as his daughter Rehema looks on. Each stencil Joel Kroeker uses in his breadmaking is cut free-hand from cardstock. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 23

Joel Kroeker, right, hands a fresh loaf of bread to subscriber Aaron Frigstad.

Each loaf Joel Kroeker bakes comes with a message he hopes will further conversation around the table. This one says, ‘Trans rights are human rights.’ talked about aspects of the breadmaking process as metaphors for spirituality.” Social change, like breadmaking, requires rights are human rights.” patience. “You can’t force things,” Kroeker “I’m taking sides, sometimes more says. “It takes time, but you can push things strongly than others,” he says, “but I along” by using warmer water to speed up always want there to be room for every- the process. When it comes to social change, body to have a spot at the table.” He adds, “you have to be present for those moments “Hopefully I’m leaving room and not to know when it’s ready,” he says. “What I coming at it from a place of holier-than- [try to do is] push things along, keep con- thou anger or judgment.” versations going.” l Kroeker has been working with sour- dough for about six years. Prior to that, Two loaves are already baking as Joel To view a video of Joel Kroeker he and his partner, Heather Peters, served Kroeker slides another two into the oven preparing loaves of sourdough under Mennonite Central Committee beside them. Before leaving them to bake, bread in his home bakery, visit  (MCC) in South Sudan for two-and-a- he will toss two ice cubes into the cast iron canadianmennonite.org half years. “We came back early because skillet on the oven floor. Steam that rises as /sourdough-spirituality. I was not coping well,” he admits. “There the ice melts will help the bread to develop was so much violence around, and I the desired crust. didn’t know how to cope with the stories I was hearing.” Currently, Peters works as peacebuild- series of talks at a regional retreat for MCC ing coordinator for MCC Saskatchewan, workers. They entitled their talks “Sour- but Kroeker credits her with much of the dough spirituality.” he says, “Heather organizational work for the business. focused on trauma awareness and com- Some time ago, the couple presented a munity-based coping strategies, and I

‘Piece, loaf & understanding’ is the motto of Joel Kroeker’s bakery business, Bæker Joel Kroeker readies another two loaves of sourdough bread for the oven. Kræker. 24 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

Ethiopian church plant dreams big Story and Photos by Joanne De Jong Special to Canadian Mennonite EDMONTON

The last Sunday of each month for the Bethel International Church Edmonton Oromo Congregation is a fast and prayer time followed by a Bible study. The fast is broken with a barley drink and coffee. Serving the drinks is Ebissie Besso, the wife of Pastor Mezgebu A. Tucho.

leader; and a Bible study and preaching leader, which is currently being filled by Tucho. Each leader is trusted to lead and to bring problems to the team for discus- sion when they have their monthly meet- ings. Bethel International officially became a member of Mennonite Church Alberta in 2018. The reason why it became a Mennonite church, Tucho says, is because, “[i]n Ethiopia I worked with the Bethel International Church Edmonton Oromo Congregation families are pictured at the Full Gospel Church, and we saw the front of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Edmonton, where they meet for services. Mennonites [Meserete Kristos] as part of our family. When we began the church in Edmonton, some of our members have big dreams,” says Pastor Mezgebu After three years, the church now has were Mennonites from Ethiopia. When I “IA. Tucho of the Bethel International between 40 and 45 members, with see Mennonites, I think ‘biblically based,’ Church Edmonton Oromo Congregation. around 30 attending on a Sunday. This is and that’s what we wanted to be.” Born in Ethiopia, Tucho has planted the first time Tucho has not taken a Tucho says that one challenge the con- more than 50 Oromo churches through- salary. He works as a security guard four gregation faces is the commitment to out Ethiopia and has travelled in Kenya, nights a week doing 12-hour shifts. He holiness. Some people want to belong to the United States, Canada and Australia, shares how it was a personal challenge the church for ethnic reasons, but the preaching the gospel. His passion is for not getting enough sleep: “Although it is leadership is interested in producing dis- his people from the Oromo tribe, who a struggle, I enjoy the opportunity to ciples who are serious about following number more than 34 million world- study and prepare my sermons without Christ. wide, with 3,000 living in the city of interruption.” “The gospel is not about quantity but Edmonton, where he planted Bethel He says that he is able to accomplish a about quality,” he says. “If the gospel International in 2016. work-life balance because of his model doesn’t change the people, what is the After pastoring a church in Toronto of ministry, which involves training a point? I’ve seen the gospel change the for seven years, he felt God calling him pastor within the congregation to even- personal life. We can’t compromise to to Edmonton. “God gave me a vision to tually take over, and to appoint leaders have numbers. How we speak, how we plant a church in Edmonton . . . in June who are responsible for specific ministry react in the world, is our witness.” 2014,” he says, “and for two years I prayed tasks. Bethel International has five main A final challenge to the congregation on it. Finally, I decided and came to leaders: a prayer team leader; a women’s regards its youth. The next generation of Edmonton Feb. 26, 2016.” ministry leader; a worship leader; a youth young people will not speak the Oromo Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 25

Online Now!  at canadianmennonite.org A daughter named Genesis Lethbridge, Alta., pastor Ryan Dueck reflects on a recent visit to a correctional institution on the CM blog. canadianmennonite.org/blog/rd-genesis

Praying through the decades A Sunday school assignment in the 1940s began an Ontario woman’s lifelong investment in prayer for India. canadianmennonite.org/eb-prayer

Watch: Raw Carrot at Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church Watch a short video about a soup-making social enterprise run partially out of a Mennonite church in Kitchener, Ont. canadianmennonite.org/video/rawcarrot

Pastor Mezgebu A. Tucho says that one of What does it mean to be Anabaptist today? the things he loves about this congrega- On the CM blog, Columbia Bible College professor Gareth Brandt tions is that ‘they love to learn the Word of asks: How can Anabaptists best show their allegiance to Christ today? God. They have an appetite. They ask me canadianmennonite.org/blog/anabaptism-today to learn more, and this gives me joy.’

language fluently, Tucho notes, so they need to look ahead to having an English pastor. He says that one of things he loves about this congregations is that “they love to learn the Word of God. They have an appetite. They ask me to learn more, and this gives me joy.” Bethel International meets Sunday after- noons at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Edmonton. Once a month, the congregation has a fasting and prayer service followed by a Bible study. During the prayer time people focus on the big dreams:

• To reach all Oromo people, both in Edmonton and beyond. • To do discipleship and leadership train- ing along the borders where Ethiopia meets Kenya and Sudan. • To join their new MC Alberta family in mission wherever that may lead. l 26 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

ΛΛObituary MCC thrift shop cofounder dies

Linie (Krahn) Friesen was born Aug. 22, 1921, in Ukraine, and died in Altona, Man., on April 11, 2019, at age 97. The oldest child of Peter and Justina Krahn, she migrated to Canada with her family in 1928 and taught school in southern Manitoba for five years before her marriage to Ted Friesen on Sept. 23, 1945, at Altona Bergthaler Church. She and her husband lived in Altona for the rest of their lives, providing leadership in their community and church. Linie and Ted were charter members of Altona Mennonite Church. Like other women of her time, Linie’s support of her husband advanced his work. Together with his brothers, Ted founded the Friesen printing company, and he provided leadership in such things as creating the Mennonite Historical Society of Canada and spearheading The Canadian Mennonite, a new English-language newspaper begun in 1953 that eventually became Canadian Mennonite magazine. But Linie was also a leader in her own right, presiding over women’s organizations, including Women in Mission of Manitoba. A supporter of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), she was one of the four women who began the very first MCC thrift shop in Altona in March 1972. She was predeceased by her husband Ted Friesen on Feb. 15, 2016. She is survived by three sons, their spouses and families. —By Barb Draper

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“I build financial planning roadmaps to help people establish their financial goals and guide them through the critical transitions of Retirement, Tax Reduction, Wealth Transfer, and Philanthropic Giving.” [email protected] Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 27

30 Canadian Mennonite May 13, 2019

Calendar June 15: Camp Valaqua hike-a-thon ΛΛ fundraiser. For more information or to British Columbia sponsor a hiker, call 403-637-2510. June 16: Camp Valaqua garden party. June 2: Homecoming celebration For more information, call service at Sherbrooke Mennonite 403-637-2510. Church, Vancouver, at 10:30 a.m. June 28-July 1: “Igniting the Saskatchewan imagination of the church” MC Canada delegate assembly, at the Quality Hotel June 15: Voices Together worship and Conference Centre, Abbotsford: workshop, at Mount Royal Mennonite (28) leaders assembly; (29) business/ Church, Saskatoon, from 1:30 to 4:30 delegate meeting; (29-1) inspirational p.m. For more information, visit mcsask conference. Special events for youth .ca/mc-sask-events. and children. June 21-23: RJC musical, alumni reunions and graduation weekend, Alberta Rosthern. July 28-Aug. 1: “Shake: Rattled by the May 31-June 1: MCC Relief Sale, in Radical,” a gathering for Mennonite Coaldale. youth in grades 6 to 12, at Shekinah June 7-9: MC Alberta women’s Retreat Centre. For more information, retreat, at the Sunnyside Retreat Centre, visit prairieyouth.ca. Sylvan Lake. Speaker: Irma Fast Dueck. Theme: “The faces of Mary: Manitoba Companion on the journey.” To register, visit mcawomen.ca. May 24-25: MCC Manitoba Spring June 12: Annual heritage retreat, at Fest and Quilt Show, Winnipeg. Besides Camp Valaqua. For more information, the quilt show and sale, which includes email [email protected]. the Dresden Plate Tearoom and a raffle, other events also include a barbecue lunch and plant sale. Proceeds from the festival will go towards relief kits. May 24-26: 18th annual birdwatching weekend, at Camp Moose Lake. For more information, or to register, visit campswithmeaning.org/news /birding-retreat. May 25: Russländer tribute fundraising banquet for the Mennonite Heritage Village Centre roof replacement, at the Village, from 4 to 9 p.m. For more information, visit mvh.ca. May 29: Westgate Mennonite Collegiate junior-high spring concert, at Bethel Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, at 7 p.m. May 30: Westgate Mennonite Collegiate senior-high spring concert, at Bethel Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, at 7 p.m. May 31-June 1: “#ChurchToo conference, responding to professional sexual misconduct in the church, at CMU. Planned jointly by CMU, MC Manitoba, MB Manitoba and MCC.

Ontario May 24-25: New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale. For more information, visit nhmrs.com. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 23 No. 10 31

May 26: Detweiler Meetinghouse June 11: Chicken barbecue and pie For more Calendar community memorial service, at 3 p.m. auction fundraiser, at Hidden Acres listings online, visit For more information, call Mennonite Camp, New Hamburg, canadianmennonite  519-504-4591. from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Advanced tickets .org/churchcalendar. May 30: Fretz Visiting Scholar Lecture, only. For tickets, call 519-625-8602. at Conrad Grebel University College, June 12-13: “Healthy boundaries in Waterloo, at 7:30 p.m. Speaker: Ben the context of ministry,” at First Nobbs-Thiessen. Topic: “Feeding the Mennonite Church, Kitchener. For colony, the nation and the market: more information, visit mcec.ca. Transported foodways and new crops June 13-14: “Spirituality and aging” in Latin American Mennonite retreat, at Conrad Grebel University colonies.” Reception to follow. College, Waterloo. June 6-8: “Land and place,” a North June 22: Annual Nithview Community American Institute for Indigenous strawberry social, New Hamburg, from Theological Studies symposium on 2 to 4 p.m., and 6:30 to 8 p.m. Indigenous theology, at Tyndale June 22: MennoHomes Out-Spok’n Seminary, Toronto. MC Canada will for Affordable Housing Bike-a-thon, at help sponsor six participants from the Elmira Mennonite Church. Options for nationwide church who want to hikers, recreational bikers and avid attend. For more information, email cyclists. For more information, visit Steve Heinrichs at sheinrichs mennohomes.com. @mennonitechurch.ca.

ΛΛClassifieds Employment Opportunities

For Rent For Rent - Guest room with Advertising Information private bath and full kitchen Contact privileges in a private home across the street from the D. Michael Hostetler University of Alberta. For details contact Arnold Voth: 1-800-378-2524 x.224 [email protected]. [email protected] CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY PHOTO A clarinetist from Manitoba is the winner of the 14th annual Verna Mae Janzen Music Competition at Canadian Mennonite University (CMU). The performance by Stephanie Wilson earned her first place and the $700 prize that comes with it, on March 20. She is the first clarinetist to ever win the competition. ‘Being the first clarinetist to ever win has been a surreal experience,’ says Wilson, who grew up in Winnipeg. ‘As exciting as it was to win, the real honour has been bringing new life to the competition through intro- ducing a new instrument. I think it’s a super exciting time for CMU, as more and more students participate on different instruments, and audiences become more interested in seeing a variety of instruments perform.’ Nathan Dyck, a baritone in his third year of a bachelor of music degree in vocal performance, placed second, while third place went to pianist Madeleine Friesen, who is in her fourth year of a bachelor of music degree with concentrations in music education and musicology. Photo finisH

PHOTO BY RANDY KLAASSEN / TEXT BY MARIA H. KLASSEN St. Catharines (Ont.) United Mennonite Church expressed thankfulness for the combined 90 years of service of four deacons—Erna Schroeder, Rita Hildebrandt, and Helen and Peter Thiessen—on the occasion of their retirement from this ministry. Over the years, they visited many older members of the congregation, providing spiritual care and nurture, and worked with pastoral leaders during baptisms, communion services and fellowship events. Schroeder said she felt that, during her 15 years as deacon, the many hardships in her life were God’s way of preparing her to help others when they go through hard times. Hildebrand said she was blessed and grew spiritually during her 20 years of service. The Thiessens said they were abundantly blessed by the trust and confidence older and younger people expressed in them.