Thewww.TheMennonite.orgMennoniteSeptember 7, 2004

communities pursuing Christ’sChrist’spurpose Page 8

ommunities Cpursuing hrist’s Cpurpose FIRST IN A SERIES

11 CPT turns 20 18 Help eliminate global debt 16 Tragic zeal 32 Picking presidents GRACE AND TRUTH

God is bigger than our language about God

Or suppose a woman has 10 valuable silver coins But Jesus also described God as a woman who and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and look in lost a coin. Again I hear that caution against settling every corner of the house and sweep every nook and on only one image of God, even one recommended cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it, she by Jesus. God is bigger than any single image pre- will call in her friends and neighbors to rejoice with sented in the Scripture. her because she has found her lost coin. In the same Provider, Savior, Redeemer, King, Lord, Warrior, way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when Mother, Father, Eagle, Rock, Fire, Light, Wind, even one sinner repents.—Luke 15:8-10 (NLT) Spirit, Son. The Scripture is full of different images of God. As we hold them together we discern the use inclusive language when I preach. It’s not outline of One far beyond anything or anyone we hard to do. Start by substituting “humanity” for can imagine. Singly these images may be easier to I “mankind.” It gets easier from there. This is not hold, they may create a sharper picture. But it is in praiseworthy but an attempt to leave room in the the aggregate that we discern the complexity, the sermon for everyone to enter. I teach my sons that wonder, the beyond-ness of the God of Scripture. we watch our language in the realm of God. Avoiding exclusive language for God invites us to Ron W. Adams I rarely use masculine language for God. I don’t be open to a multitude of biblical lenses through is pastor at East rewrite the Scriptures. But when the words are my which to understand and appreciate who God is. Chestnut Street own, they reflect a God who is more than male. Using inclusive language is also a matter of jus- Mennonite Church in This is true to the variety of images of God we find tice. Christians have been slow to recognize that Lancaster, Pa. in Scripture. the Bible’s masculine bias is as culturally bound as The biblical writers use masculine language its poetry or cosmology. We dismiss calls for inclu- when speaking of God. As are we, those writers sivity as “political correctness,” yet Jesus warned were products of their times and cultures. Their against hindering anyone from becoming a disciple. choice of language is not surprising. They used lan- If exclusive language hinders anyone from follow- guage, metaphor and imagery that made sense to ing Jesus, we’d do well to heed that warning. their audiences. Patriarchal societies understood For too long some of our sisters have been and preferred masculine language. excluded from feeling fully welcome. The fault is But the writers also compared God to a nursing not God’s, the One who created us in the divine mother (Isaiah 49:15) and an eagle who bore Israel image, female and male, and called us good. The up on her wings (Exodus 19:4). Though these femi- fault is the use of language that excludes and limits nine images of God are scarcer than I’d prefer, they the good news in a way that makes it hard to hear. tell us our understanding of God should not be lim- If only one young woman finds a deeper connec- ited by our cultural or linguistic preferences. Using tion to God through inclusive language, that’s feminine language to describe God even once worth throwing a party. If my sons come to see that makes clear that God is not solely masculine. God is One who values and understands every Jesus called God Father. He instructed the disci- human being, that’s worth throwing a party. And ples to pray to “our Father.” I have no need to clean even if the only one changed is the preacher, I say, up Jesus to fit my taste or my understanding of jus- Break out the balloons and serve the ice cream. tice. I do not hesitate to pray the Lord’s prayer as There is joy in heaven (and earth) when even one recorded in the Gospels. sinner repents. TM

TheMennonite Vol. 7, No. 17, September 7, 2004 The Mennonite seeks to serve Mennonite Church USA by helping readers glorify God, grow in faith and become agents of healing and hope in the Editor: Everett J. Thomas Offices: world. The Mennonite (ISSN 1522-7766) is published on the first and third [email protected] 1700 S. Main St. Tuesdays of each month by the board for The Mennonite, Inc. Periodical Goshen, IN 46526-4794 postage paid at Scottdale, PA 15683-1999. Canada Post international Associate editor: Gordon Houser publications mail sales agreement no. 40033185, GST no. R122192453. Sub- [email protected] phone: 800-790-2498 fax: 574-535-6050 scription rates: $38.75 (U.S.) per year. Group rates available. Scripture refer- Marketing/Advertising: Marla J. Cole ences are from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise noted. [email protected] 722 Main St., P.O. Box 347 The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent Secretary: Kristene Miller Newton, KS 67114 the official positions of The Mennonite, the board for The Mennonite, Inc., Editorial assistant: Nora Miller phone: 800-790-2498 or Mennonite Church USA. Design: Merrill R. Miller fax: 316-283-0454 Editor Emeritus: J. Lorne Peachey Postmaster: Cover, pages 8-11 by Laurie L. Oswald Web site Send form 3579 to 616 Walnut Ave., www.TheMennonite.org Scottdale, PA 15683-1999.

2 TheMennonite September 7,2004 CONTENTS

8 Communities pursuing Christ’s purpose God’s heartbeat sends Mennonite Church USA to reach people with healing and hope.—Laurie L. Oswald

11 CPT turns 20 A look at the first 20 years of Christian Peacemaker Teams under the leadership of Gene Stoltzfus—Melanie Zuercher

6 14 Spiritual resistance An excerpt from Iraq: A Journey of Hope and Peace 7 —Peggy Faw Gish

16 Tragic zeal The spiral of violence, vengeance and death —Darrin W. Belousek

19 Keim is Hesston’s presidential candidate

20 Hurricane Charley leads to God’s love Pine Creek Chapel in Arcadia, Fla., finds new ministry opportunities.—Esther Kniss

19 21 Leaders make plans to pass on legacies —Everett J. Thomas

22 Biennial convention joins Native people —Kenyetta Aduma

23 Hispanic Mennonites develop identity —Gordon Houser

DEPARTMENTS

2 Grace and truth God is bigger than our language about God—Ron W. Adams

24 4 Readers say

6 News digest

18 Speaking out Help eliminate global debt—Celeste Kennel-Shank

26 For the record

30 Resources

32 Editorial Picking presidents—Everett J. Thomas

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 3 READERS SAY

Amish in the City felt I have to be careful about what I say and where Re the reality TV show “Amish in the City” I say it. Some in the Mennonite church imply we (Mediaculture, Aug. 17): Does “Amish in the City” must be doing something wrong or un-Anabaptist exploit Amish? Sure it does. But it pales in compari- to become a church that continues to attract large son to other ways the presence of Amish is used to numbers of people from our community. Further- promote tourism in Elkhart and LaGrange counties more, I occasionally feel judged for not attending in Indiana, Holmes County in Ohio, Lancaster leadership seminars at our Mennonite seminaries. County in Pa., and other counties as well. Instead I attend other seminars across the country Businesses want to profit from tourist dollars as the at large churches that have already walked where tourists gawk at Amish in their quaint dress, watch we will be walking or take classes from other semi- them travel in a horse-drawn buggy or wagon—all nary professors who have had experience leading the while staying in the comfort of an elegant motel large, growing churches. This publication wel- as they observe the simple lifestyle. I pray there will be a day when larger Mennonite comes your letters, either about our con- If we want to protest Amish exploitation, why congregations will not be seen as an aberration of tent or about issues don’t we protest every time we see the name the “ideal” small or medium-sized church. My facing the Mennonite church. Please keep “Amish” used to promote the sale of a product? prayer is that regardless of the size of any church, your letters brief— —Richard Hostetler, Goshen, Ind. there will be rejoicing together that we are effec- one or two para- graphs—and about tively reaching our communities with the good one subject only. We No pledge of allegiance news, and more people are becoming fully devoted reserve the right to edit for length and Thank you for J. Nelson Kraybill’s challenging call followers of Jesus Christ.—Dennis Gingerich, Cape clarity. Publication is questioning participation in the national pledge of Coral, Fla. also subject to space limitations. Send your allegiance (“A Christian Pledge of Allegiance,” Aug. letters to Readers Say, 3). My parents suggested that it was not appropri- Silly of church to divide The Mennonite, 1700 S. Main St., Goshen, ate for Christians. Through 12 years of public Several articles in the July 20 issue tell of the seri- IN 46526-4794. Or school I stood at attention during the pledge with ous adjustments being made in at least some of the email us at: Editor@ TheMennonite.org. arms down at my side. Christ and Caesar both call area conferences, and especially Western District, Please include your for our ultimate loyalties, and we make the choice. of Mennonite Church USA. I understood the arti- name and address. We will not print let- After a half century of refusing the pledge (when cles to say that a whole range of previous associa- ters sent anonymous- my peers stand to declare their loyalty to Old tions and history now seem to be treated with neg- ly, though we may withhold names at Glory), I am reminded of both who and whose I lect, and many churches and their members in our discretion. am.—Bob Hartzler, Wayland, Iowa states like Kansas and Oklahoma are baffled as to —Editors why the changes were made at all. These system Bless large congregations changes are now combined with demographic and Thanks to Jim Lapp for speaking out in the article economic shifts to produce major challenges. “Let’s Bless Large Mennonite Congregations” I share the feelings of those who are telling us (Aug. 3). As a church planter who has had the what seems to be happening. From where I sit, it incredible privilege of leading a small group of six seemed almost silly to divide all kinds of activities to become a large growing congregation, I too have into two national groupings simply to say that we had a distinct church on each side of the border. If IN THIS ISSUE national characteristics play such a large role in religious bodies, one wonders about priorities. e have heard that Mennonite Church USA is to be a mis- Canada and the United States are distinct countries, soinal church. But what does that look like? In this issue but the Christian church is no more a divided entity W we begin a series by Laurie L. Oswald intended to by political borders now than it was in the time of describe what it means to be a missional church (page 8). the apostle Paul. Oswald says, “Asking what God is doing in the world and then At St. Louis 1999 a friend, more outspoken than I becoming people who can join God is more a shift in focus than am, opined, “We are here at the death of the adding programs.” Other expressions of the missional church General Conference.” May there be enough grace are the biennial gatherings sponsored by Mennonite racial-eth- to help us go on from here and grasp the opportu- nic associate groups (beginning on page 21). Finally, we note nities as new light, hopefully, comes.—Lorne Buhr, that Christian Peacemaker Teams recently celebrated 20 years Edmonton of standing peacefully between warring parties and that found- ing director Gene Stoltzfus recently retired. We commissioned Seeds for a missional church Melanie Zuercher to review this phenomenal expression of the Thank you Dorothy Nickel Friesen for the observa- missional church and reflect on what its success is saying about tions on the state of rural communities and rural our historic peace witness (page 11).—Editor churches (“Secondary Terrorism,” July 20). I was reminded that the power of death is real and it is

4 TheMennonite September 7,2004 READERS SAY

wanting to claim our towns and our churches. I poverty, the continuing unchecked violence against hope the article is only the beginning of a process women and ongoing racism. whereby we reflect on what is happening around us Still planning on voting on the issues of “gay in light of Christ’s victory over the powers of this marriage” and abortion alone? First, spend five age and then creatively imagine how the Christian minutes just listening to a poor and single woman community can be engaged in witnessing to the considering abortion. Visit with a woman whose presence of the kingdom that is making the world husband beat her the night before in front of their new. children. Hang out in a low-income housing area. What we are witnessing in the rural areas is not Read the testimony of a woman raped in Sudan in “terrorism.” We are instead experiencing the an attempt to wipe her race out of existence. inevitable consequences of modernization in which Remember, behind every issue there are human the poor are exploited while those profit who con- faces.—Jennifer A. Yoder, Columbus, Ohio trol seeds and markets. In order to renew the ONLINE POLL world, churches both urban and rural need to No campaign letters RESULTS rethink what it means to share in the fellowship of In the Aug. 17 Readers Say, two letters proposed the Lord’s Table. Eating at one and the same time that we vote in November and vote for President Should Christians connects us with social, political economic, environ- Bush. The Mennonite should call a moratorium on say the Pledge of mental issues. By awakening our conscience and all campaign letter writing. Allegiance? through the renewal of the meaning of our sacra- One of the basic tenets of Anabaptism is the sep- ments we can turn this tragedy into an opportunity aration of church and state. Why would we allow a Yes (51%) to praise God.—Ray Epp, Yubarigun, Japan church publication to promote candidates? Our alle- No (42%) giance is to the kingdom of God. Our national alle- Not sure (7%) God is not Republican or Democrat giance is secondary. Would our promotion of and I read The Mennonite with interest each week, espe- voting for certain candidates not make us in part Check out the new poll question at www. cially the letters from readers. Two letters especially culpable of their grievous violations of God’s king- TheMennonite.org caught my eye in the Aug. 17 Readers Say: “Vote for dom? Both candidates are dripping with the unnec- Good Government” by Wayne Kratzer and “Other essary blood of war (Iraq and Vietnam). They are Wars Than Iraq” by Lorene Gable. both beholden to the power structures of the I am saddened by these letters. I am saddened mighty. Deception and lies seem to be the order of that these two individuals consider liberals the the current campaign. We should continue to use enemy. I am not the enemy. I believe in peace, jus- our publication to call our government to govern tice and social reform. I believe in not only toler- with justice for all. But let us refrain from becoming ance but acceptance and understanding of all peo- partisan and actually making the mistake of believ- ple, just as Jesus taught. I disagree with Gable on ing our government can do the work of the king- most of her points, but this does not make me less dom.—Joseph Yoder, Middlebury, Ind. committed to Christian or Mennonite values than she. Were our forebears not liberals of a sort, buck- Editor’s note: As the U.S. presidential election draws ing the norm of the Catholic church to start some- near, we will print letters about the election if space thing new? Are we not, as a faith, supposed to be allows. However, priority will be given to letters that committed to helping the poor and restoring social address articles and news in The Mennonite. justice, both decidedly Democratic ideals? Are we not also supposed to be committed to peacemaking, Life is too short something our current president has most definite- I want to affirm Clarence Rempel for his words of ly left by the wayside? wisdom (“Life Is Too Short to Pretend,” Aug. 17). God is not a Republican. Neither is God a Life is too short to not truly communicate our inner Democrat. And neither you nor the Religious Right selves with our Christian brothers and sisters. We speak for me.—Renita Leichty, Henderson, Ky. heal our own wounds from sharing each other’s pains and hurts. We grow and learn from each Listen to a poor person other’s guilt and past mistakes. We need to help lift In response to the letters “Vote for Good Govern- each other up and walk through those difficult ment” and “Other Wars Than Iraq” (Readers Say, times together. We can’t do so, however, if we don’t Aug. 17): The political atmosphere is volatile; politi- know about each other’s inner churnings. cians are baiting and hooking the Christian voting I’m sure Christ would want us to walk toward block with hot-button issues such as abortion and each other, not away, in times of pain. Together so-called “gay marriage” in an attempt to divert our let’s try to drop our pride and our fears and share attention from the war in Iraq, the “situation” in ourselves in a deeper way with each other.—Sandy Sudan, international relations in general, increased Eberly Wenger, Bellefontaine, Ohio

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 5 NEWS DIGEST

IN BRIEF Pasadena Mennonite protests Halliburton PASADENA, Calif.—Pasadena Mennonite Church organized a protest and vigil held Aug. 7 in front of the Pasadena offices of Halliburton. About 35 local evangelical Christians partici- pated in the protest. According to organizers, the group want- ed to show that the values espoused by the Bush M photo by Dale D. Gehman EMM administration are opposed to Christian values that Shands Stoltzfus many evangelicals hold dear. The group sought to named AMBS challenge Christians of all persuasions to apply the director of admis- life and teachings of Jesus to U.S. foreign policy, sions, financial aid and particularly to military and corporate conduct Regina Shands during the occupation of Iraq. Stoltzfus has been “There are a lot of people who say they are named director of admissions and Christians yet are actively supporting violence and financial aid for corporate profiteering in a way that contradicts Dancing before the Lord Associated Menno- Jesus’ life and teachings,” said organizer Eric Getty, At the closing rally of the Holy Spirit in Missions Conference nite Biblical Semi- a staff member with InterVarsity, an evangelical in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, the White Dove children’s group, representing various churches in the Sula District of nary, Elkhart, Ind., campus movement. “The Scriptures clearly chal- beginning Sept. 7. the Honduran Mennonite Church, performed special musi- Stoltzfus has been lenge these practices, and we are here to witness to cal numbers and dances in praise of missions and in honor associate campus a biblical way of love and justice that has always of missionaries. pastor for Goshen been a part of evangelical tradition.” (Ind.) College and Bert Newton and Jennifer Davis-Sensenig, pas- al ranking of colleges and universities. minister of urban tors at Pasadena Mennonite Church, vow to carry Bethel College, North Newton, Kan., is one of ministries for Men- nonite Mission on an active peace witness in the Pasadena area only three Kansas colleges to make the top half of Network, Elkhart. over the coming year.—Eric Getty the 2005 Best Comprehensive Colleges-Midwest Earlier she was asso- list, appearing the highest at no. 28. ciate pastor of Lee Mennonite colleges ranked by magazine Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, Heights Community Once again Mennonite colleges have received posi- Va., has moved up in the rankings, now in the third Church, Cleveland, and coordinator of tive rankings in U.S. News and World Report’s annu- tier in the national liberal arts category. It was list- the Damascus Road ed in the fourth tier last year. anti-racism program. Bluffton (Ohio) University is ranked in the top —AMBS News Service tier of comprehensive colleges in the Midwest. It is ranked no. 25 out of 108 ranked schools in the 12- Rosedale mission state region. director dies Goshen (Ind.) College placed solidly in the third Henry Helmuth, tier of the best liberal arts colleges category for the Latin American mis- sion director for fourth straight year. Rosedale Mennonite The rankings appear in the issue of U.S. News Missions, died Aug. 1 Balzer Susan Miller and World Report that hit newsstands Aug. 23 and following a protract- are also available at www.usnews.com.—from ed battle with can- reports by Bethel College, Bluffton University, cer. RMM, headquar- tered in Rosedale, Eastern Mennonite University and Goshen College Ohio, is the mission News Services agency of African ‘peace meals’ in Hesston, Kan. Conservative Sandi Richard (right) pours water over her husband Phil’s AMBS alumni giving, contributions increase Mennonite Confer- hands, demonstrating African hospitality before a “peace ELKHART, Ind.—Giving to Associated Mennonite ence—Rosedale meal” typical of a wedding feast in Botswana. About 70 Mennonite Missions Hesston (Kan.) Mennonite Church members and several Biblical Seminary by alumni increased by nearly Hesston College international students ate together in two-thirds during the 2003-2004 fiscal year while eight homes Aug. 14 and 22. The peace and justice com- the number of alumni who gave increased by half. mittee of the church planned the meals to encourage This increase, combined with strong response to Christian fellowship, cross-cultural understanding, pray- AMBS’s Next Generation campaign, resulted in a ing for peace and giving to the Mennonite Church USA’s Peace and Justice Support Network. Guests donated 45 percent jump in total giving to AMBS. nearly $1,000 to the peace network. That will be doubled More than 700 AMBS alumni contributed during by a matching grant from MMA.—Susan Miller Balzer the year, compared with 475 the previous year, in part because of a phonathon conducted in the fall

6 TheMennonite September 7,2004 NEWS DIGEST

IN BRIEF and spring. Gifts from alumni added up to $267,517, Olympic champion has Mennonite connection Goshen appoints a 64 percent increase over the previous year. Joanna Hayes, who won the 100-meter hurdles in interim president Total giving to AMBS for the year came to record time at this year’s Olympics in Athens, Goshen (Ind.) College $3,353,007. This marked a 45 percent increase over Greece, is the granddaughter of Elta Miller, whose Board of Directors last year and came as a result of contributions to chair Virgil Miller second marriage later in life was to Orie Miller, the announced Aug. 19 designated projects in the Next Generation Fund well-known churchman who helped start that John D. Yordy for Church Leadership. As of June 30, the Next Mennonite Central Committee. has accepted the Generation Fund had reached three-fourths of the Hayes’ father, Ted Hayes, is an advocate for the invitation to serve as goal of $20 million.—AMBS News Service homeless in Los Angeles. In TV interviews, Joanna Goshen College’s from a report by Kent interim president. has testified to her faith.— Yordy has served as Davis Sensenig, Joanna’s Mennonite cousin provost for Goshen since 1996. He over- Elfrieda Klassen Dyck dies at 87 saw and coordinated the offices of the aca- Mennonite Mission Network photo byMennonite Mission David Fisher Fast Elfrieda Klassen Dyck, 87, long-time Mennonite demic dean and Central Committee worker and one of the 20 dean of students and most influential Mennonite men and women of supervised the col- the past century, according to The Mennonite, lege budget offices died Aug. 20 in Scottdale, Pa. and information The family has requested technology and man- aged strategic plan- that donations be made to a ning processes. As memorial fund to help provost he also refugees that has been estab- served as chief exec- lished in Elfrieda’s name utive officer in the through MCC. absence of the presi- dent. Outgoing pres- Along with Peter, her hus- ident Shirley H. band, Elfrieda served with Showalter will offi- ‘God’s Word is precious’ MCC during and after World cially end her term Anne Garber Kompaoré is completing a master’s degree at War II, when refugees flooded Elfrieda Klassen Dyck by Sept. 30.—Goshen Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Ind., during a out of war-torn Europe. As College news service six-month North America assignment with Mennonite Mission recently as 10 years ago, at the time of MCC’s 75th Network. She has done Bible translation work in Burkina Faso SUV fatality rate since 1982. A foundational truth underlying her ministry, anniversary, she and Peter set out on speaking tour continues to rise whether in North America or West Africa, is that “God’s Word is across the United States and Canada to talk about The gap in safety precious.” their experience. between sport utility Elfrieda was born in Donskaja, new Samara, vehicles and passen- Russia, in 1917, the youngest of 14 children. In ger cars last year was 1925, her family fled Russia and settled in the widest yet recorded, according Winnipeg, where as a young woman she graduated to new federal traffic from St. Boniface Hospital in 1939 as a registered data. People driving nurse.—MCC News Service or riding in an SUV in 2003 were nearly 11 Puerto Rico reunion draws 270 to Goshen percent more likely to die in an accident GOSHEN, Ind.—More than 270 people from 15 than people in cars, states, Canada and Puerto Rico attended a reunion the figures show. The

Ken Lind Aug. 7-8 at Pleasant View Mennonite Church in government began Goshen. Among those attending were missionaries, keeping detailed sta- voluntary service and Civilian Public Service work- tistics on the safety of vehicle categories ers, native Puerto Ricans, Ulrich Foundation staff MCC West Coast bike tour raises $18,000 (plus $5) in 1994. SUVs contin- members and their families. ue to gain in popu- During the sixth MCC West Coast Bike Tour Aug. 2-6, partici- These had served in Puerto Rico as pastors, larity, despite safety pants pedal off the ferry for a day of riding on Shaw Island. concerns and the About 60 riders, plus support volunteers, pitched tents at the teachers, medical service providers, agriculture vehicles’ lagging fuel fairgrounds on San Juan Island, taking ferries to explore three and community development workers and in economy at a time additional islands in Washington’s Puget Sound (Orcas, Lopez other roles to help start churches and improve when gasoline prices and Shaw). The tour raised more than $18,000 for the ministry the living conditions of the local people, starting are high.—New York of Mennonite Central Committee—or $18,005. One day, rider in the 1940s. Times James Larimer, Fort Wayne, Ind., told a stranger on the road that this trip was created to benefit needy people around the world. Participants took an offering to help with the The stranger handed him a $5 bill.—Cathleen Hockman-Wert work of Academia Menonita Betainia (Bethany Mennonite Academy) in Aibonito.

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 7 ommunities Cpursuing hrist’s Cpurpose Communities FIRST IN A SERIES pursuing Christ’spurpose

God’s heartbeat sends Mennonite Church USA to reach people with healing and hope.

by Laurie L. Oswald

cross Mennonite Church USA, congrega- tions and area conferences are asking anew what it means to join God’s work in the world. The answers vary, but the heartbeat is the same: God sends Aus beyond our church walls and historical roots to reach new people with the healing and hope of Jesus Christ. Denominational leaders witness to this fresh search to find God’s path for Mennonites in the 21st century. And the word “sent” appears often in their testimonies. This sending means that all parts of the denomination will integrate being and doing—living in God’s heart so This new focus is causing me to help my congregation export the good news of Jesus Christ and his healing and hope into our communities, and that can be messy sometimes.—Jane Roeschley

that the church can follow where God’s heartbeat sends it. Asking what God is doing in the world and then becoming people who can join God is more a shift in focus than adding more programs, say members of Mennonite Church USA’s churchwide missional church team. The team, begun in 2002, is helping the denomination fulfill its missional priorities. The team isn’t prescribing a longer “to do” list but is encouraging the church to prayerfully consider God’s agenda. Focus shift, not program addition: Area conference leaders and pastors who are members of the missional church team said this shift of focus is changing people more than programs. Jane Roeschley, associate pastor of Mennonite

8 TheMennonite September 7,2004 Church of Normal (Ill.), says that this shift is help- were some hard knocks,” she says. “One of the ing her congregation risk more messy experiments coaches said he’d never do that again, but then he and worry less about perfect outcomes. ran into two of the kids one day. He was over- “This new focus is causing me to help my con- whelmed with ‘high fives’ from one boy, and the gregation export the good news of Jesus Christ and other boy introduced him to his mother. his healing and hope into our communities, and “We learned that sometimes just showing up … that can be messy sometimes,” she says. “It’s just is enough to make an impression. We’re realizing plain hard to move from a ‘country club’ mentality that it’s okay to ask help from others in the commu- into a meaningful and connecting ministry context. nity. Next time, we hope to invite an African- “My job as a leader is to tend the messiness and American man from another church to partner with disappointments and false starts. We often begin us in these efforts.” new outreaches with great ideals, but then discover Passion, not programs: Along with promoting that unforeseen challenges require that we change flexibility and humility in congregations, pastors and grow in order to make something work. must also affirm existing passion for ministry and “God doesn’t call us to the American model of not micromanage programs or push personal agen- success that says we must get it ‘right’ the first da, says Beryl Jantzi, senior pastor of Harrisonburg (Va.) Mennonite Church. “In my role, I am not called to do everything but to support others in what they feel God is calling them to do and to be,” Beryl says. “That means helping people tap into the fire in their bellies. We need to tap into the energy and We need to tap into the energy and excitement that our people already have about areas of ministry.—Beryl Jantzi

excitement that our people already have about areas of ministry.” For example, because members of the congregation have a passion for being more welcoming, the church hosts an end- of-the-summer neighborhood block party with food, games and entertainment. Some churches work at ministry to chil- dren through preschool and day-care programs, he says. But this event targets entire families hoping to make a connec- tion and build lasting relationships. “People will connect with us when we connect with them,” Beryl says. “That means that we must break through our sense of being the quiet in the land and strive to be better neighbors who speak in ways that people can hear our love. … If we care about their needs for hav- ing a place to gather as a neighborhood, then they are going to be more likely to come back time. Instead, we are called to be for some of our Sunday morning programming.” faithful and to build relationships. That can mean Prayer shapes passions: Prayer and spending that we try and try again until our ministry style time in God’s presence help people prepare to join better connects with those we serve.” God’s work and agenda, Jantzi and Roeschley says. For example, she cites how three Caucasian “This congregation has taught me the impor- men from the congregation volunteered to coach tance of prayer in reaching out,” Beryl says. “The African-American boys in a basketball program. passion for being a welcoming place is rooted in Continued “The cultural shifts were a challenge and there prayer and spiritual disciplines.” For example, the on page 10

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 9 We’re asking what God is doing in the world and then asking who we need to become.—Jim Schrag

Continued congregation held a 28-day prayer and fasting event “It also means that we will ask new questions from page 9 to become more attuned to God’s will for the con- about our worship styles, including: Can new peo- gregation. “We have a prayer committee that helps ple understand the language we are using? Do we to keep us praying on a 24-7 basis,” he says. “This act as one big, happy family reunion and exclude is so important for supplying the vision and newcomers?” strength to try new ministries.” Jim is also concerned that area conferences Jane agrees: “Shifting into this new focus on join- and congregations find evangelism tools that fit ing God’s mission is not only about doing or only Anabaptist theology, including a focus on disciple- about being, but it’s about both—a both/and ship to Jesus and community. “I tremble a little thing,” she says. when I look around at all the possible models for “If all you do is go out and try new things all the evangelism and realize that some of them may time without anchoring them in spiritual practices, not be best for us as Anabaptists,” he says. your congregation will burn out. God uses both the “Maybe we start there. But let’s not give up on inward and the outward in shaping us as a mission- creating or finding resources that grow out of al people. We are formed by the practices of wor- who we are.” ship, Bible study and retreats. No matter what method is used, Jane believes “Then, from out of the depths of prayer, we congregations are already equipped to allow God’s reach out. And in reaching out, we are also healing and hope to flow through them to their changed and shaped by God. Both the inward and communities. In Deeply Woven Roots, a book she’s outward help us to become more like Christ and to studied by author Gary Gunderson, she’s learned be more a part of God’s mission.” that the local congregation is one of the main tools A passion for Equipping, not maintaining: Area conference God has for building “shalom”—peace and whole- welcoming: From ministers as well as pastors see how a shift in focus ness—in communities. left, Dusty is changing people’s attitudes, their expectations of “The congregation lies at the permeable bound- Rhodes, senior pastor Beryl leaders and the way they worship, says Jim Lapp, ary between God’s kingdom and the world, and Jantzi and missional church team member and leader of because of that there is a lot of osmosis that can Darlene Landes, Franconia Mennonite Conference’s ministry team. happen,” she says. “God has already provided con- members of “This shift means that we will evaluate our pas- gregations with resources to offer the world, and it Harrisonburg tors not on whether they are maintaining the con- is just a matter of scales dropping from our eyes so (Va.) Mennonite Church, enjoy a gregation but whether they are moving the congre- we can see what those are.” Wednesday gation beyond itself, developing new leaders and Jim Schrag, executive director of Mennonite evening fellow- equipping people for ministry,” he says. Church USA, and Stanley Green, executive director ship meal at the of Mennonite Mission Network—the denomina- church. tion’s mission agency—believe scales are dropping from the eyes of Mennonites as they respond to who they are as God’s sent people. The two leaders are co-chairs of the missional church team. “In decades past, we asked who God was and then asked what God wanted us to do,” Jim Schrag says. “But with this shift in focus, we’re turning that around. We’re asking what God is doing in the world and then asking who we need to become. This is not just another new methodology. It is a renewal movement, and it has a lot of potential for transforming our self-understanding.” Stanley says, “I’m excited that in the 21st centu- ry in Mennonite Church USA, we’re recovering our identity and are being revitalized to be missional people who engage our world with the good news of Jesus Christ, both at home and around the world.” TM

Laurie L. Oswald is news service director for Mennonite Church USA.

10 TheMennonite September 7,2004 Biblical mandate: CPT director Gene A look at the first 20 years of Stoltzfus, wearing Christian Peacemaker Teams under the CPT red hat, with people in the leadership of Gene Stoltzfus Najef, Iraq CPT photo

turns 20 CPTwenty years ago this summer, when Ron organization to be called Christian Peacemaker by Melanie Sider electrified a relatively small group Teams (CPT). Zuercher of Mennonites with his speech at In August 1987, that steering committee hired a the1984 Mennonite World Conference half-time director for CPT, Gene Stoltzfus. T (MWC) assembly, no one imagined how Seventeen years later, Gene leaves the helm of an far the ripples from his words would spread. organization that has literally changed the meaning No one but Gene Stoltzfus, perhaps. of “Mennonites” to people around the world. Sider, a Brethren in Christ professor at Eastern Says Susan Mark Landis, current CPT Steering Baptist Seminary near Philadelphia, gave a keynote Committee member, “There was a time when peo- address at the MWC gathering in Strasbourg, ple outside Mennonite circles knew us through France. In the speech, he outlined a vision for John H. Yoder. Now they know us through [CPT], something like “teams of Christian peacemakers” and they don’t have to be able to read a book pub- who would go to places of conflict in the world and lished in English to do so.” stand peacefully between the warring factions. Gene came to CPT with more than two decades The idea took hold with what was then called the of peace and justice work behind him, in Vietnam, Peace Section of Mennonite Central Committee. the Philippines and the United States. Peace Section staff produced one pamphlet and Organized platoons: “I started to think about Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, organizing peacemaker teams in the 1960s, when I Ont., another. Between 1985 and 1986, study was working in Vietnam,” he says. “If the military groups in Mennonite congregations across North can put together disciplined, organized platoons, America used the materials to talk about and help Christians should be able to do the same in areas in flesh out Sider’s idea. the world where there is armed conflict. I always In late 1986, at a meeting of the Council of felt that Christians should be much more focused Moderators and Secretaries of what was then the and disciplined in their peacemaking. Mennonite Church and General Conference “In the early 1980s, we had the example of Mennonite Church, as well as the Brethren in Witness for Peace in Central America. There was a Christ and Mennonite Brethren, met in Techny, Ill., wider cultural conviction in the peace and justice Continued and decided to form a steering committee for an world that a group of people committed to peace on page 12

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 11 Continued from page 11

could ‘get in the way’ of armies and violence. Ron Mexico; on Vieques Island, Puertotur Rico; with We learned Sider articulated that from an authentic Christian Palestinians in Hebron (ongoing) and other parts of perspective,CPT which was a significant contribution.” Israel-Palestine; in the inner cities of Washington, that function- One of the most important changes in CPT over D.C., and Richmond, Va.; and in Colombia (also ing as an the years, Gene says, has been the ecumenical char- current). Local CPT groups all over North America acter it has developed (see box). However, Menno- have regularly called attention to the sale of violent unapologeti- nites were the core of CPT and remain the single toys by large retailers and, with April 15 actions at cally Christian largest denomination or group to contribute to CPT post offices, to the amount of U.S. income taxes both financially and in terms of delegation members. going for military purposes. group is the “When I go into Mennonite churches to speak, In the fall of 1992, CPT held its first Christian way to go. I’m often asked: ‘Why are you talking to us—aren’t Peacemaker Corps training, from which emerged we the choir?’ ” he says. “My response: ‘I under- four full-time Corps members and three part-time —Gene stand what Mennonites believe, but I’m not sure Peace Reservists. “During this time,” Gene says, Stoltzfus we’re a choir.’ A choir requires training, learning to “we were being pushed and cajoled to come to interpret, being willing to submit to a group. You Haiti, and eventually we started our first long-term don’t just throw anybody together and call that a project, in Jérémie, Haiti. choir. We Mennonites have been very individualis- “It was our quietest project—we were still learn- tic in our peacemaking.” ing. But it kept the Haitian military on notice that The ongoing challenge has been to build the the world was watching. There was no phone con- “teams” in CPT’s name. A big boost to CPT’s self- tact in Jérémie, and this was before any kind of reli- confidence came in 1990, during the Mennonite able email. But we learned that our presence can World Conference assembly in Winnipeg. make a difference. CPT organized a witness at a Minuteman II mis- “We learned that functioning as an unapologeti- sile silo in North Dakota. “We didn’t know what cally Christian group is the way to go. We learned kind of response we’d get,” Gene says. that short-term delegations can complement the They got plenty—six buses and 30 cars and vans work of the long-term people. Our full-timers could full of Mennonites, about 350 participants, enough not do the public events because they weren’t in to surround the silo site. “When we stopped in Port-au-Prince, but the delegations could.” Winkler [Man.] for supper on the way back, there As CPT’s work expanded, it continued to learn was such a sense of energy and buoyancy,” Gene lessons. CPT decided to establish a long-term pres- says. “It felt like we had the support out there— ence in Hebron, West Bank, in 1995 because it was people wanted to do this.” one of the few places in Israel-Palestine that had no Big splash: With the MWC witness, CPT also permanent human rights groups. made its first big splash in the media (in this case, Selective public witness: “In Hebron, we cut our Winnipeg’s), a tool the organization has continued teeth in terms of learning how a small group could to use with great effectiveness. be effective doing selective public witness,” such as Perhaps no time was there so much publicity as symbolically opening the Hebron market, which in late 1990, when CPT sent its first delegation to remained closed despite the peace agreement man- Iraq, right before the outbreak of the first Gulf War. date to open it. “We developed our confidence in our Among them, the 13 members of that delegation ability to relate to the larger diplomatic community.” made at least 1,000 public appearances related to Although CPT’s presence in Hebron has “gener- their visit to Iraq. ally been positive,” Gene says, “it’s discouraging There has been almost as much publicity recent- that no fundamental change has happened. But ly, as CPT was months ahead of the mainstream Hebron is on the map in a way it wouldn’t have U.S. media in reporting abuse of Iraqi prisoners by been otherwise.” U.S. military personnel and has been inundated CPT’s work in Chiapas, Mexico, caused the with requests for interviews and information by organization to think more about developing local that same media since they caught on as well. Christian Peacemaker groups, which in Chiapas In between, CPT has carried out projects direct- would have combined the poorer indigenous people ly with or in support of First Nations people in and more middle-class Ladinos. The effort wasn’t Labrador, New Brunswick, Quebec and northern successful there, but the CPT groups currently in Ontario, as well as with Lakota activists in South Colombia include Colombians. Dakota; in Haiti; in eastern Europe (Chechnya and Developing such groups is one of the challenges Bosnia); with indigenous people in Chiapas, Gene sees for CPT in the future. “This has major

12 TheMennonite September 7,2004 nsimplications for how20 we understand ourselves as face of crisis and conditions that strike you with multicultural, multiethnic and multilingual.” their violence—after a while, you get weary. I need Crisis is the Other challenges include how to respond to far some time to clean out,” he says. more requests for CPT presence in hot spots However, he adds quickly, “Crisis is the opportu- opportunity around the world than CPT can possibly fill and nity for transformation. That’s not just nice lan- for transfor- constant work on the whole “team” nature of guage—I’ve experienced it.” CPT—perhaps more so as the organization “God’s Spirit flows through Gene in a gushing mation.That’s becomes increasingly ecumenical. From its original river, and he is willing to give his entire being to not just nice Mennonite and Brethren in Christ base, CPT added stay with the flow,” says Susan Mark Landis. “He the Church of the Brethren and Friends United has a sixth sense for nonviolence organizing. He language— Meeting (Quakers) as supporters who are repre- knows how to network with justice groups around I’ve experi- sented on the Steering Committee. In recent years, the globe. He prays and lives intimately with God. CPT has seen more Catholics and mainline He’s intense, compassionate and an honest friend.” enced it. Protestants in its delegations. Adds Kathleen Kern, who’s been involved with —Gene “The peace community is sort of like Menno- CPT since 1992, “I will miss the way that he gen- nites—there are a lot of stubborn people who think uinely loved CPTers and took our concerns and Stoltzfus they have a corner on what’s right and righteous, needs seriously.” people who also have big hearts. Stubbornness is a Carol Rose, who began July 12 as CPT co-direc- gift in terms of facing overwhelming and intract- tor, working in the Chicago office while Doug able problems, but it can make for difficult group Pritchard is co-director from the Ontario office, dynamics. It’s hard to integrate the strong soloists says, “One thing I value, that I hope I’ve learned to into the choir, but it can be done.” do from Gene, is his gift for taking the many- For now, Mennonites remain CPT’s strong base. faceted and complex realities of social organiza- “We started this in the midst of denominational tions, peace movements, wars and being able to merger [between the Mennonite Church and the look at that big picture and say, ‘This is the direc- General Conference Mennonite Church], but we tion God is moving,’ or, ‘This is where we’re stuck.’ never felt like we were told to go away. Instead it Maybe that’s political analysis. Maybe it’s ‘discern- was, ‘We’re really glad you’re doing this—keep on ing the signs of the times,’ to put it in more reli- even if it seems like no one’s paying attention.’ gious terms.” “It’s important that Mennonites and other peace “The bottom line is that as Christians, we won’t churches warmly and consistently embrace this work. kill,” says Gene. “We’ll find some other way. The It’s really basic: You don’t kill someone just because challenge is: How do you do that in the modern you disagree with them. That’s the biblical mandate.” world? What’s God’s Spirit calling us to?” TM Gene isn’t sure exactly what he’ll do after he concludes his time as CPT director on Aug. 31, but Melanie Zuercher is writer/editor in the communica- he expects to stay involved in peace work and to tions office of Bethel College, North Newton, Kan., and continue to support CPT. “For me, looking into the a member of Shalom Mennonite Church, Newton.

No. of full-time Peacemaker Corps members: 32 Quaker – 10 No. of part-time Reservists: 126 Church of the Brethren – 9 CPT today Supporting denominations: Church of the Brethren, Friends United Presbyterian/Reformed – 7 Meeting, Mennonite Church USA Non-specific Christian – 5 Denominational breakdown of Peacemaker Corps members: Non-religious/secular – 5 Mennonite – 15 Episcopalian/Anglican – 4 Catholic – 4 Methodist – 3 Quaker – 3 United Church of Christ/Disciples of Christ – 3 Lutheran – 3 Baptist – 2 Methodist – 2 Lutheran – 2 Episcopalian – 2 Unitarian –1 No specific denomination – 2 United Church of Canada – 1 Church of the Brethren – 1 No. of full-time staff members: 9 (5 are full-time Corps members, one Denominational percentages in Reserve Corps: is a Mennonite Voluntary Service worker) Mennonite – 37 No. of part-time staff members: 2 (both are CPT reservists also) Catholic/Catholic Worker – 11 Budget (Year 2003): $893,000

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 13 Spiritual

An excerpt from Iraq: A Journey of Hope and Peace

by Peggy Faw Gish

t was my last week in Baghdad before leav- Pity and love don’t go together. Pity distances; ing for the United States. And what a full love connects. With pity they are looked at and week it was! A week of more bombing and treated as a tragedy or as misfits. With love they violence but also a week of courageous and are seen as fully human and good. Love stops see- loving work that doesn’t usually get report- ing the deformity and watches for the beauty and ed. I was part of the hopeful vigil in Kerbala, uniqueness to emerge in a smile or twinkle of the ithe march to the CPA [Coalition Provisional eye, or even in the stormy cry of pain or anger. Authority] headquarters, and the last regular vigil I think of a similar kind of sentiment many have at Tahrir Square. I went to our Iraqi friends, saying when they think of a group of people suffering war good-bye and “Insha’alla—I will be back again.” or poverty, as the Iraqi people are today. If pitied, And I had a last visit to the Holy Family school and we can distance ourselves from their humanity and the orphanage. throw them some crumbs. We can feel generous Several changes had taken place in the orphan- because we are giving them something rather than age since September. Two new infants, Mustafa and fully embracing them as deserving of every good Ziad, added to the melee of the playroom. New toys thing that others in our world enjoy and as fully abounded and new chairs allowed these disabled competent to decide how their country should be children to sit more comfortably. A group of U.S. restored. soldiers came several afternoons a week to play With pity, we can begrudgingly pull some with the them. While the soldiers were there, a money out of our pockets to rebuild what the Humvee and tank stood guard on the street in front United States has destroyed, then give that money of the door. But there was no change to the playful to our companies who “know best how to do it noises and sense of family. Because of my busy right” (and in the process put large profits in their schedule, I had been able to join them only about pockets). With pity we can believe that we need to once a week. guide the Iraqis into democracy, thinking we know what is best for their society. We can use pity to cover up all kinds of paternalistic, dominating or Pity and love don’t go together. oppressive policies. Pity distances; love connects. In our CPT [Christian Peacemaker Teams] work among the Iraqi people, pity has no place. There’s suffering, brokenness, anger and pain, but we are This day, while I sat among the children, singing privileged to be among them to see their strength, and helping a large stuffed animal talk to them, a generosity and creative spirit. woman walked in hesitantly to greet them. She gen- A newly arrived sister from India walked me to tly shook her head with a look of pity on her face the door of the orphanage as I was ready to leave. and then left. As she thanked me, I said, “Thank you. I always Her sentiment seemed out of place in this playful receive more than I give.” She responded, “Yes, scene. Silently my heart shouted, “No! You are mis- that’s the way it is with love.” taken. They are not things to be pitied. They are It was March 15, 2004, and our CPT Iraq team real people. They are Nurah and Amid and Nashua. had gathered for worship. Jane read the Scripture When I see Dunia’s mischievous smile as she grabs from John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, a handkerchief out of my pocket or watch Ziad’s and the darkness did not overcome it.” She asked, sparkling eyes and trusting look, I don’t see them “What does this Scripture passage say to us in this as a girl with cerebral palsy or a boy with brain society torn by violence?” damage. I see them as beautiful little people who In the time of quiet reflection I thought of one have much to give.” year earlier in the last days leading up to the war

14 TheMennonite September 7,2004 resistance

We believe that the only way to solve the problems in Iraq is through turning around, changing directions (repentance) and establishing justice.

and during the bombing. The war seemed to be cion. We refuse to accept the mindset that anyone driven by the circle of decision-makers in the Bush resisting the U.S. occupation is a terrorist. We administration. With jets poised and an ultimatum resist seeing either Iraqi or U.S. soldiers as our given to Saddam, war seemed inevitable. enemies or believing that violence is the only way But some of us resisted this way of thinking to to combat terrorism. We choose to see things the very end. We found ourselves engaged in a through the worldview of Jesus and the prophets, kind of spiritual resistance. Some thought us unre- so we believe that the only way to solve the prob- alistic and impractical. It wasn’t that we had any lems in Iraq is through turning around, changing illusions about the Bush administration’s capability directions (repentance) and establishing justice. of doing such a thing or thought it couldn’t happen. But that means giving up U.S. domination in Iraq. We didn’t want to get caught in a mindset that Is it possible to walk, live and work in a system bought into it, got stuck in it and could no longer of horrendous, overt structural violence without see possibilities for creative action. We did not want being overcome by it? How can we do it today here the culture of fear and hopelessness to paralyze us in Iraq, the United States or any other nation? TM and to swallow up the light in this intense unleash- ing of violence. This article is excerpted with permission from Iraq: A Do we make statements of faith and then let the Journey of Hope and Peace by Peggy Faw Gish, just darkness creep into our consciousness? Do we let published by Herald Press. Since 1995, Peggy has the darkness take over and shape our worldview been involved with Christian Peacemaker Teams in and lead us to believe that the answer to the the West Bank and Iraq. world’s problems lies with having superior force or that this war was the only way to deal with or get rid of an evil dictator? Christians even create the- ologies of how Jesus couldn’t have really meant Iraq: A Journey of Hope and Peace by Peggy Faw Gish (Herald Press, 2004, that we should love our enemy or that nonviolent, $17.99) is just out. In it readers get a glimpse of what it’s like to serve with Christian Peacemaker Teams. Twenty years after the germ of the idea for suffering love is more powerful than violence or this organization (see story, page 11), CPT is active evil. Some say, “We have to be practical in today’s around the globe in various hot spots, including world.” Colombia, the West Bank and Iraq. Gish offers a per- One powerful way the Iraqi people defied the sonal account of being a committed worker for darkness during the war was to start the call to peace in a situation of conflict that leads to war. The book’s epigraph, a quote of Dorothy Day, populariz- prayer every time the bombing would start. Over ing a saying by Fyodor Dostoevsky, is telling: “Love in the loud speakers of the mosques, we would hear, action is a harsh and dreadful thing, compared to “Allah Akbar! (God is the greatest, or God is love in dreams.”We learn from this book that dream- greater!)” God is more powerful than the greatest ing of peace and working for peace are two different military power in the world. This call to prayer did things. Working for peace is messy, heartbreaking, filled with daily choices that require courage and com- not stop the bombing, but it helped prevent the mitment to Jesus’ way of peace. Gish is honest about bombing from breaking the spirit of the people. her fears and questions: “Were we crazy, as many had Some of it may have been our own craziness or suggested?”Yet she clings to the “armor we hoped to stubbornness mixed in, but I couldn’t help but use: that of truth, faith and ‘the readiness that comes think that our resisting the inevitability of war had from the gospel of peace.’“ This timely book gives us a different view of Iraq than what we get from the mainstream U.S. media. It lets us see the human some connection with the passage about the light beings whose lives are being turned upside-down by this war. Gish shows triumphing over darkness. the importance of prayer and worship to the work of CPT. It is less a political In our CPT work today we resist getting caught in diatribe than a testimony of the power of the gospel, Jesus’ good news that the mindset of the occupation system, which sees God is the One who rules.—Gordon Houser the Iraqi people through the eyes of fear and suspi-

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 15 Tragiczeal

by Darrin W. Belousek

No one created in God’s image and for whom Christ died is devoted to seizing can be for me an enemy, whose life I am willing to threaten power, Creon to or to take, unless I am more devoted to something else—to entrenching his authority, a political theory, to a nation, to the defense of certain priv- Antigone to her family and ileges, or to my own personal welfare—than I am to God’s piety, Haemon to his betrothed cause: his loving invasion of this world in his prophets, his and Eurydice to her son. All the Son, and his church.—John Howard Yoder, He Came actors are blinded by their zeal Preaching Peace from seeing wisdom, represented in the figure of the blind prophet he people of the United States and in many Teiresias, and this bondage to passion other nations remember the events of Sept. prevents them from acting prudentially. 11, 2001—the horrific sight of the terrorist And therein lies the tragedy. Polyneices’ attacks and collapse of the Twin Towers, and act of treachery begets Creon’s act of the heroic actions of firefighters, police offi- arrogance, which begets Antigone’s act of Tcers and ordinary folks. On that day three years ago, we defiance, which sets off a spiral of death: a saw the stark contradiction between those willing to take death sentence is followed by suicide, which their own lives to take the lives of others and those will- is followed by attempted murder and acciden- ing to risk their lives to save the lives of others. tally self-inflicted death, which is followed by Commentators likened 9-11 to the attack on Pearl another suicide. Harbor, “a day that will live in infamy.” Our real-life story parallels the classic drama. One year ago, the United States witnessed another day We are tempted to blame the tragic outcome of that should “live in infamy.” On Sept. 3, 2003, the state of Sept. 3, 2003, on one of the principal players. The Florida executed anti-abortion activist-terrorist and for- problem, some said, is that Paul Hill’s character was mer minister Paul Hill for the murder of an abortionist fatally flawed by moral contradiction. The state’s stubborn insistence on a death penalty, others As the people of God, we are no longer argued, only made a martyr of Hill, strengthening his vigilante cause. The root of the problem, said others, is to adapt ourselves to this tragic pattern the women who sought abortions and the abortionists of this age. who performed them—or the circumstances that “necessitate” the “choice” of abortion in the first place. and his escort in 1994. This event showed us another Each explanation may have some merit, but each misses glaring contradiction. In the name of “we the people,” a the crucial point. government killed a man who had been willing to kill Each of the principal figures is zealously devoted to a another using the same perverse logic—namely, killing a political or moral cause that supposedly justifies violence, defenseless person in the name of defending the defense- the deliberate taking of life, if necessary—the abortionist less lives of others. This event singularly reveals is devoted to “pro-choice,” the activist-terrorist to “pro- America’s descent along a spiral of violence toward a cul- life” and the state to “justice.” Yet all the actors are blind- ture of death. ed by their zealotry to the image of God in each person. This death spiral took three turns. Some sought to end Bondage to passion prevents them from seeing the other certain problems by abortion; and another willingly and as one for whom Christ died. And therein lies the legally aided in the killing of the unborn. Yet another, tragedy. Elevating their respective causes to ultimate who claimed to believe life is sacred, sought to end abor- value, each sees the life of another not as a redeemable tion by killing the abortionist. The state, whose laws do gift of God but as a mere means that can be sacrificed to not protect equally the life of the abortionist and the some other end. For the abortionist, the unborn is an unborn, sought to end murder by killing the murderer. obstacle to “liberation”; for the activist-terrorist, the abor- This calls to mind Sophocles’ classic play Antigone. tionist is a threat to “life”; for the state, the activist-terror- While it is obvious that both Creon and Antigone are ist is an offense against “justice.” Thus a tragic sequence headstrong, we are inclined to think one of them should of zeal, violence and death ensues: The state takes the have yielded first. But this misses the depth of the life of the activist-terrorist for taking the life of the abor- tragedy. Each character is zealously devoted to a cause tionist for taking the life of the unborn. he or she believes is worthy of sacrificing life: Polyneices As the people of God, we are no longer to adapt our-

16 TheMennonite September 7,2004 The spiral of violence, vengeance and death

selves to this • Betrayed by Delilah and taken captive by the tragic pattern Philistines, Samson gains vengeance for the humiliation of this age. of having his eyes gouged out by bringing down the Such nonconfor- Philistine temple, killing thousands of people (16:4-31). mity requires the Both Samson and the Philistines are captive to a vio- spiritual remaking lent zeal for vengeance that sanctions the sacrifice of life of our minds so that for the cause of saving honor. The spiral of vengeance we may discern the and violence consummates in a mass murder-suicide that way of God, the way of consumes the lives of both Samson and the Philistines. life and peace, from the Samson thus plays a counterpart to the 9-11 terrorists: way of the world, the way He takes his own life to take the lives of others, even of destruction and death. invoking God to vindicate his vengeful cause. Although This transformation entails the narrator attempts to conceal zealous violence not only viewing our world beneath “the spirit of the Lord,” Samson’s final words through a biblical lens but reveal his descent into the pit of tragedy: “Let me die reading the Bible critically to with the Philistines.” uncover even there the pattern Having discerned the tragic pattern of this world— of tragedy so that we may see whether in biblical narrative, classic literature or the what is usually kept hidden from morning news—we should zealously devote ourselves to view. peaceably cultivating a “seamless garment” of respect for Consider Samson. The conven- life. We are called to holy nonconformity, a consistent tional interpretation portrays Samson ethic of life and peace that contrasts with and witnesses as a tragic hero of inspired strength to a world on the path of destruction and death. We must who is fatally weakened by a character therefore contend faithfully against every force of vio- flaw—not unlike Antigone or Paul Hill. Despite being devoted to God from We are called to holy nonconformity, a before birth, Samson obeys his passions, what pleases and angers him, and habitu- consistent ethic of life and peace that ally breaks his nazirite vow. Lack of self- contrasts with and witnesses to a world on control leads to defilement with foreign women, which brings about his downfall. the path of destruction and death. However, this reading fails to uncover the story’s tragic dynamic. lence and desolation—rape, domestic abuse, abortion, The story of Samson comprises a cycle of infanticide, euthanasia, assisted suicide, capital punish- vengeance and violence between Samson and ment, torture, terrorism, war, poverty, racism and ecolog- the Philistines. This cycle takes five turns ical ruin—that threatens God’s image. toward tragedy: In The Original Revolution: Essays on Christian • Samson murders 30 men to restore his Pacifism (Herald Press, 1971), John Howard Yoder writes: honor after being humiliated by his wife’s betrayal “What is wrong with the Zealot path for Jesus is not that it at his own wedding (Judges 14:5-20). produces its new order by use of illegitimate instruments • Humiliated a second time when his wife is but that the order it produces cannot be new. An order given away to the groomsman, Samson again created by the sword is at the heart still not the new peo- avenges his honor by burning the fields, vineyards plehood Jesus announces. It still, by its subordination of and olive groves of the Philistines (15:1-5). persons (who may be killed if they are on the wrong side) • The Philistines murder Samson’s wife and her to causes (which must triumph because they are right), father to avenge their loss; Samson outdoes them by preserves unbroken the self-righteousness of the mighty killing them “with great slaughter” (15:6-8). and denies the servanthood which God has chosen as his • The Philistines come to capture Samson in order to tool to remake the world.” TM do to him as he did to them. Though delivered into their hands by fellow Israelites, Samson gains a surprise Darrin W. Belousek teaches philosophy at Lithuania advantage and slaughters 1,000 Philistines (15:9-17). Christian College.

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 17 SPEAKING OUT

Help eliminate global debt

hen many Mennonites hear about Jubilee Committee often pays for services such as educa- USA Network, they are surprised. Several tion, health care and sanitation, which are too W members of East Chestnut Street Menno- expensive for the average citizen of a poor nation. nite Church in Lancaster, Pa., told me they attend- When debt has been cancelled, governments have ed the Jubilee demonstration in April 2000 but been able to provide services to their people. In thought the organization no longer existed. Tanzania, 1.6 million children returned to school The Jubilee movement is still working for the after user fees, required with World Bank and IMF cancellation of debts owed to the World Bank and reforms, were removed. International Monetary Fund by With government providing the world’s poorest countries. In social services, money from the next few months the network churches could go to leadership is calling for people of faith to training, peace building or work- rally again. For every day on which ing with youth. “This is an absolutely critical poor nations’debt is This summer, Jubilee USA moment in the struggle for free- Network, with the help of mem- Celeste Kennel- Shank, a Goshen dom from debt, which is literally not fully cancelled, ber organizations such as (Ind.) College bleeding countries in Asia, Africa Mennonite Central Committee, senior, spent and Latin America of resources 19,000 children die launched a countdown to free- the summer as they desperately need to fight dom from debt. communications AIDS, poverty and disease,” says from treatable dis- “The people of faith and con- intern at Jubilee USA Marie Clarke, national coordina- science that are part of Jubilee Network. She tor of Jubilee USA Network. eases,14,000 adults USA across the country will be attends Commu- At this June’s 6-8 Summit, a turning up the heat on the White nity of Christ in meeting of the leaders of the and children are infect- House and Treasury,” says Washington and world’s most powerful coun- Clarke. “The global community Assembly Menno- ed with the HIV virus nite Church in tries, the United Kingdom pro- needs action on debt, and we Goshen. posed 100 percent debt cancella- and more than a bil- have a deadline: Oct. 1.” tion. Though they failed to act Churches that travel with mis- then, the finance ministers of lion people lack access sion or service trips to a develop- seven wealthiest nations may ing country can use that opportu- make the decision when they to clean water. nity to talk to people in that meet on Oct. 1. nation about how external debt is For every day on which poor affecting them, then relay that nations’ debt is not fully can- information to decision makers in celled, 19,000 children die from treatable diseases, the United States. 14,000 adults and children are infected with the Churches can also help build the Jubilee move- HIV virus and more than 1 billion people lack ment by talking about debt and its connection to access to clean water. global poverty in Sunday school classes, sewing cir- With a current debt of $333 billion, African coun- cles, youth groups or peace committees. tries pay $1.51 in debt service for every $1 they get This could be the year when 100 percent cancel- in aid. Money sent by churches through Mennonite lation of debts for many of the world’s poorest Mission Network and Mennonite Central countries is achieved. “The Judeo-Christian Jubilee Scriptures compel IN THE NEXT ISSUE nations and communities to cancel debt in order to build right relationships,” says Adam Taylor, a • Are Mennonites sacramental?—Tom Finger Baptist minister and Jubilee board member. “In this world broken by AIDS, war and economic injustice, • In celebration of everyday worship—Richard L. there is no time to waste.” TM Bowman The views expressed in this publication do not neces- • Why we pray for the president but cannot sarily represent the official positions of The Mennonite, the board for The Mennonite, Inc., or Mennonite Church support the war—Levi Miller USA.

18 TheMennonite September 7,2004 Keim is Hesston’s presidential candidate The former professor returns after eight years as dean at nearby Tabor College.

oward Keim is the Hesston work … resulting in a candidate (Kan.) College presidential of Dr. Keim’s qualifications and H search committee’s candi- experience. We look forward to date of choice. Norm Yoder of his visit with the Hesston Henderson, Neb., chairs the College community and the dis- search committee and made the cernment that will follow there,” Hesston announcement on campus Sept. 3. she said. Keim is vice president of aca- Keim, who lives in Hesston, College has a demics and student development received a doctorate in commu- great future, and associate professor of com- nication studies from the Univer- munications at Tabor College, sity of Kansas, a master’s degree and Dr.Keim Hillsboro, Kan. Tabor is a four- in interpersonal and public com- has the vision year liberal arts institution owned munication from Central Mich- and operated by the Mennonite igan University and a bachelor’s to help good Brethren Church. degree in speech and dramatic

Michael Zollinger people do Keim will visit the Hesston arts from the same institution. campus Sept. 7-8 to meet with various groups and He also studied at the University of Iowa and is a great things. individuals. The search committee will review input 1972 graduate of Hesston. His wife, Tami, graduat- —Norm Yoder from this process and make a final recommenda- ed from Hesston and has directed its Early tion on Keim’s candidacy early this fall. Hesston’s Childhood Education Program since 1987. president is appointed by Mennonite Education Keim has been a professor and administrator at Agency (MEA) with the recommendation of the Tabor College since 1996. He taught at Hesston Hesston board. from 1987 to 1996, including directing its Pastoral “MEA represents Mennonite Church USA and is Ministries Program. He was pastor of Kalona a partner with the Hesston College board in both (Iowa) Mennonite Church from 1979 to 1987 and the search process and presidential appointment,” youth minister at Fairview (Mich.) Mennonite says MEA executive director Carlos Romero. Church prior to that. Keim has served his congre- MEA board chair Rosalind Andreas of Essex gation, Whitestone Mennonite Church in Hesston, Junction, Vt., expressed appreciation for this part- as an elder. He is a former moderator of South nership. Central Mennonite Conference of Mennonite “We on the MEA board are most grateful to the Church USA and serves on the conference minis- search committee for its dedicated and vigorous terial commission. “Dr. Keim’s experience as an academic dean, teacher, pastor and director of Hesston’s Pastoral Ministries Program gives him valuable leadership experience,” Yoder said. “His collaborative leader- ship style would serve Hesston well. Hesston College has a great future, and Dr. Keim has the vision to help good people do great things.”—joint release from Hesston College Board of Overseers and Mennonite Education Agency Courtesy photo Name change Bluffton (Ohio) College has officially changed its name to Bluffton University. On Aug. 1 the new name was unveiled at the new entrance to campus by Stephen Jacoby (left), chair of faculty, and Lee Snyder (right), president.

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 19 An unidentified volunteer makes a cell phone call outside Pine Creek Chapel. The roof from the church’s pavilion lies in the back- ground.

Hurricane Charley leads to God’s love Birkey Marlin Pine Creek Chapel in Arcadia, Fla., finds new ministry opportunities.

urricane Charley, rated a category four hurri- A team from Pine Creek Chapel that had cane and packing winds up to 145 mph, received Red Cross training helped direct the more H ripped through many communities in south- than 1,200 evacuees who came to the large Turner west Florida on Aug. 13. In the wake of its path, Agri-Civic Center in Arcadia on the day of the hur- many homes were destroyed as roofs were ripped ricane. The building was selected by the Red off; mobile homes went down like matchsticks. Cross as a shelter because it was built to be wind- Oaks that had stood for years are now splintered resistant. and broken. Many other trees are uprooted, which But as the vicious storm moved over the center, leaves us feeling shattered. a corner of the high-domed roof buckled and One of the communities in which the storm whipped open, exposing open sky. The Pine Creek wreaked havoc is Arcadia, an inland town that felt team reported that at first people wondered if the safe from coastal hurricanes. Two Mennonite con- roof would collapse on them or if they would die. gregations are in Arcadia: Pine Creek Chapel, a But these questions were soon replaced by a feel- member of Southeast Mennonite Conference and ing of God’s wings sheltering those inside. All came Peace River Mennonite Church, member of through it safely. Eastern Pennsylvania Conference. Both churches Even without electricity, the Pine Creek congre- sustained roof damage. gation gathered two days after the storm on Sunday morning to hear each other’s stories, talk about their feelings and sing praise to God. People said that God came through with his presence in a time of uncertainty and fear. Within days after the storm, about 25 volunteers arrived to do emergency roof repair on two church- es, and a day later more volunteers rolled into our community, bringing heavy Bobcat equipment and many chain saws. The whirl of chain saws is already speaking to unchurched neighbors. It is a testimony of God’s love to those hurting. As carloads of supplies and food arrived at Pine Creek Chapel in the following days, we realized what an opportunity of ministry God was giving to us as we saw our neighbors com- ing through the church doors to receive aid, then staying on to talk about their hurts and fears. We expect to see many miracles in people’s lives as they experience this outpouring of God’s love in the

Marlin Birkey weeks and months ahead, which could lengthen Dave and Esther Kniss, Arcadia, Fla., stand by the storm damage at their home. into years. God’s presence has not been demol- Dave is the former pastor of Pine Creek Chapel, and both are still members there. ished.—Esther Kniss

20 TheMennonite September 7,2004 ASSOCIATE GROUPS’ BIENNIAL CONVENTIONS Leaders make plans to pass on legacies African-American Mennonite Association celebrates financial recovery.

ast spring, when the Ingelwood, Calif., police were caught on videotape beating Donovan L Jackson, ministers expected their African- American neighborhoods to erupt in violence simi- lar to the reaction after the 1992 Rodney King beat- ings. So they began working to keep the peace even before the verdict was announced. “We put signs and banners up saying, ‘Peace After the Verdict’ and people began to ask what they would do,” said Alvin Isaacs, pastor at Calvary Christian Fellowship in Inglewood. “After the ver- dict, we opened up the churches … and nothing happened. It was perfect peace.” That kind of proactive peacemaking was the focus of Isaac’s address to the African-American Everett J. Thomas Mennonite Association convention Aug. 14 at Bethel Community Church in Chicago. The story reminded AAMA leaders to pass on a peacemaking legacy to the next generation. “It’s imperative that we start thinking about the institutions … but the environment has been hos- More than 30 next generation,” AAMA president Leslie Francisco tile. Let’s not forget that we were once slaves.” youth from across III said in the convention’s opening session. “I tell Kenneth Lee Thompson, pastor at Friendship the United States joined the 2004 my congregation I’ve done what I’m going to do, Community Church in Bronx, N.Y., confirmed the African-American and it’s time to get the next generation involved.” challenges in Mennonite Church USA during his Mennonite Francisco leads the 2,000-member Calvary closing message and called for action. Assembly’s Community Church in Hampton, Va., and serves as “We need to be sure our people are as welcome biennial conven- bishop for congregations in his Virginia Mennonite in Mennonite Church USA board rooms as they are tion in Chicago Aug.13-15. Conference district. in MCC food pantries,” said Thompson. “We cannot The next generation was clearly involved at this rest until every person of color has full opportunity AAMA convention. More than 30 youth from con- for employment and full access to ministry.” gregations across the country joined the conven- The convention’s business session hit a celebrato- tion for the opening session. The three plenary ry note as AAMA board member Zenobia Sowell- speakers focused on what current leaders want to Bianchi presented a positive financial statement. In pass along as their legacies. In addition to peace- 1996, the AAMA budget had a deficit of $16,237 but making in urban settings, AAMA leaders said they now has assets totaling $39,563. wanted to pass along legacies of worship and direct “We are in the black, and that’s a blessing,” said involvement in their communities. Sowell-Bianchi. “The debt has been cancelled.” “There was a price to pay for the freedoms we Francisco wanted AAMA members to know, have today,” said Francisco. “It is a travesty when however, that the debt was cancelled “because we an election comes along and we don’t exercise that paid it, not because it was wiped away.” right.” The financial news was not so positive for one of But several speakers also described rights that the key programs AAMA counts on for training are not yet afforded to African-American members congregational leaders—the Lark program. Rozier in the Mennonite church today. Mennonite Central Director Karla Francisco, whose husband, Stephen, Committee staff member Michelle Armster report- died unexpectedly on July 6 (“Pastor’s Death ed on the difficulties confronting people of color in Shocks Church,” July 20), announced that for the the MCC Central States office; MCC determined first time the program cannot accept new students, last year that the North Newton, Kan., office’s work after disbursing $41,495 for 11 students last year. environment was hostile to people of color (see “All available funds are depleted,” Karla “MCC Administrator Asked to Resign,” Oct. 7, Francisco said. Four applicants for the 2003-2004 2003). Armster challenged AAMA members to get academic year were denied funding as well as three involved in such situations or risk losing relevancy summer students. Jacqueline Rozier, a church for the next generation of African Americans. planter in Ohio, was the lone Lark graduate for the “Young people of color are leaving the church 2003-2004 academic year. She received a Master of because they don’t want to take it,” Armster said. Arts in Christian Ministry from Ashland (Ohio) “There are more people of color working in church Theological Seminary in June.—Everett J. Thomas

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 21 ASSOCIATE GROUPS’ BIENNIAL CONVENTIONS Dan Dyck

Biennial convention joins Native people Three organizations hear proposal for new Mennonite Church USA group.

The 235 people he biennial Native Assembly was held jointly Many workshops were offered, including two that gathered for by Mennonite Indian Leaders Council (MILC), designed to give direction on the Native organiza- Native Assembly United Native Ministries (UNM) and Native tions. One gave information on the proposed new 2004 included T this Choctaw Ministries of Canada (NMC) July 26-29 in Riverton, Mennonite Church USA Native organization. The group from Man., at the Riverton Recreation Center. Riverton other talked about the vision for Native ministry in Philadelphia, Fellowship Circle hosted the assembly. Canada and an upcoming staff transition.—from a Miss., that sang “Our Help Comes from the Lord” was the theme report by Kenyetta Aduma of Mennonite Church for the gathering. for the week. Youth spent the week at Matheson USA’s Office of Intercultural Relations Island and had a program that ran concurrently. Children had their program across the street from the main assembly. 2004-2006 Leaders The opening ceremony included a presentation of banners from the various Native churches and a Mennonite Church [A speaker said] mini gospel jamboree. The week included lots of Racial/Ethnic Associate Groups it hurts when singing and sharing from all the native churches. A African- American Mennonite Association (AAMA) people come to highlight of the assembly for many of the partici- • President Leslie Francisco III native people pants was the inclusion of cultural activities and Newport News, Va. like they are tours of nearby Native lands. Speakers for the wor- teaching them ship services were Lawrence Hart, Howard Jolly, Iglesia Menonita Hispaña (IMH) something new. • Moderator Byron Pellecer Juanita Nunez and Barbara Shoomski. Miami One speaker referred to mountains where God spoke and a mountain that had significance in his Mennonite Indian Leaders Council (MILC) life. Another spoke about the names and attributes • President Marvin Yoyokie of God and who we are in him. Kykotsmovi, Ariz. Another encouraged people to know their stories Native Ministries Canada (NMC) and not forget who they are because they are • Director Marvin Franz Christians. She said that we don’t all need to be the Winnipeg, Manitoba same and asked how Christian people of all nations can become equal under God. She also said that it United Native Ministries Council (UNMC) • President Olivette McGhee hurts when people come to Native people like they Atmore, Ala. are teaching them something new.

22 TheMennonite September 7,2004 ASSOCIATE GROUPS’ BIENNIAL CONVENTIONS Gordon Houser

Hispanic Mennonites develop identity Delegates agree to support women in pastoral ministry, work on education.

glesia Menonita Hispaña (the Hispanic called for a spirit of unity in which all the regions Family members Mennonite Church) came into being two years feel a part of IMH. Each region represented gave a of the musicians ago in Goshen, Ind. At its first biennial meeting report, as did those representing youth, women join in interces- I sory prayer since then, Aug. 19-21 in Kansas City, Mo., IMH and education. (above) while focused on unity and continued to work at develop- The education commission is looking at the idea new IMH modera- ing its new identity. of a missional academy, said Rafael Barahona, tor (facing cam- Part of that work of identity was looking at a con- director of the Hispanic Ministries program at era, bottom left) stitution. IMH represents more than 120 congrega- Goshen (Ind.) College. The commission recog- Byron Pellecer joins other tions in nine regions. (A region consists of at least nizes, however, that it will want to work with semi- leaders. five congregations.) Each region has a representa- naries and with Mennonite Education Agency. tive on the IMH board. One of those regions is “Everything is in process,” he said. Canada (six congregations in Alberta and British Barahona also lamented the paucity of funds for Columbia), and the question remains whether or not education coming from IMH congregations. Canadian congregations will be members. Of the 37 “Education is expensive, but ignorance is even The question delegates at this meeting, none was from Canada. more expensive,” he said. remains The sermons in the three worship times focused The delegates discussed a proposal to meet whether or not on John 17 and the theme “United That the World jointly with other racial-ethnic groups in two years Canadian con- May Believe,” and executive director Juan Montes but left the decision to the IMH executive commit- gregations will tee. They also passed three resolutions: (1) to allow be members Iowa congregations to be part of the Illinois-Indiana of IMH. region, (2) to support the pastoral ministry of women and (3) to oppose racism and ask Menno- nite Church USA to conduct a racism audit. IMH elected Samuel Lopez of New Holland, Pa., moderator-elect. Marco Güete of Cedar Hill, Texas, turned over his duties as moderator to Byron Pellecer of Miami. A listening committee report asked, What is the purpose of the IMH assembly? Beyond the worship, fellowship and business, that is still being worked out in this young organiza- tion.—Gordon Houser Gordon Houser Gordon September 7,2004 TheMennonite 23 Denomination leads interchurch talks Other Christians could help Anabaptists reconcile over divisive issues.

Mennonite Church USA-sponsored consulta- Jesus,” Hauerwas said. “Michael Sattler looks kind tion July 13-15 in South Bend, Ind., helped par- of simple next to Martin Luther, but that is part of A ticipants—pastors, theologians, educators, the genius.” peace group representatives and members of Clapp said he believes that Mennonites are the Mennonite Church USA’s executive leadership most realistic of all Christians. Jesus’ calling for team—consider greater cooperation and under- “You remind us all that we cannot see the world unity in John 17 standing with other Christian traditions, including as it really is outside the realism of Christ,” he said. is an imperative Protestant, Catholic and Orthodox. Stassen encouraged Mennonite-Anabaptists to to be obeyed Seeking new relationships does not mean diffus- choose Pentecostals as dialogue partners. and not some- ing Anabaptist distinctiveness, participants said. “Pentecostals praise Jesus and follow Jesus and thing we do But it will mean airing differences in the light of don’t have a thick exegesis but simply say, ‘Here’s only if we feel God’s grace and sharing gifts and strengths, as well what it means to follow him,’ ” he said. “They began like it.—Al as needs and weaknesses. It will mean promoting as pacifists but lacked the deep arguments, and Meyer mutual growth in theological understandings and these convictions got lost.” dreaming of future joint efforts in peacemaking and After receiving challenges from panelists and evangelism. working in small groups for two days, participants “Jesus’ calling for unity in John 17 is an impera- suggested some possible next steps on the pathway tive to be obeyed and not something we do only if to relationships with other traditions. we feel like it,” said Al Meyer, volunteer director for Their suggestions for Mennonite Church USA Mennonite Church USA interchurch relations and included building relationships with peace fellow- planner for the consultation. ships in other denominations, joining a church Panel discussions helped participants grapple association such as Christian Churches Together in with what it means to be “mutual pioneers” with the USA, and encouraging Mennonite congrega- those from other traditions. Non-Mennonite pan- tions to join other churches in reaching out to their elists included Stanley Hauerwas, professor of theo- communities. logical ethics at Duke University Divinity School, It also may include helping Anabaptists reconcile Correction: Durham, N.C.; Rodney Clapp of Brazos Press; over divisive issues by eliciting the help of itinerant The Mennoville David Burrell, C.S.C., former chair of the theology evangelists, ensuring that the scope of interchurch Mennonite department at Notre Dame University, South Bend; exploration includes networking locally, regionally Church building and Glen Stassen, professor of Christian ethics at and globally, creating practical ministries and con- in El Reno, Okla., Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Calif. tinuing the healing of memories with such groups was built in 1893. The date was “What you bring to the table is an extraordinary as the Catholics, Lutherans and Reformers over incorrect in the rethinking of Christian theology, and the great dis- issues that caused Anabaptist martyrdom.—Laurie Aug. 17 issue covery at the heart of your movement was simply, L. Oswald of Mennonite Church USA News Service

MEDA gets $5.6 million to fight mosquitoes Mennonite Economic Development Associates has received a two-year, $5.6 million contract from the government of Tanzania to expand its war against mosquitoes and malaria in Africa. The contract will make MEDA the logistics contractor for the new Tanzania National Voucher Scheme, which aims to make insecticide-treated mosquito nets affordable to low income families. The two-year contract, funded by the Global Fund for Malaria and several other organizations, is the largest project ever managed by MEDA. MEDA will manage the entire logistics component of the National Voucher Scheme. This involves all activities related to printing and distributing the vouchers, the retail distribution systems and collect- ing and redeeming the discount vouchers from par- ticipating businesses. A special target for promotion will be prenatal clinics, as pregnant women are high- ly vulnerable to malaria. The project, managed by Jerry Quigley (right, with a supply of the nets), may end up employing 45 people in Tanzania.—MEDA News Service

24 TheMennonite September 7,2004 AIDS takes Chad parents from families Pastor asks churches for one cup of grain each week for orphans left homeless.

is body is weak and in pain, but he can still Mugabe Andrew share a smile with others. His age and his (left) was one of name are unknown, though he can speak. the first AIDS H patients to Until today the abandoned boy has remained receive supplies unknown to any of the village elders. The orphans from a Mennonite who discovered him have named him “Perdu,” Central Commit- which in French means “lost.” tee AIDS Care Kit, They surround him protectively, draping arms which includes soap, towels, over his shoulder and swatting away flies from his sheets and other face. They know what it is to be abandoned and supplies. Andrew have adopted him as one of their own, providing is suffering from a whatever food they can spare. But it is not enough. number of AIDS- “The first thing we must do is give him a proper related illnesses. Nurse Christine name,” says Levy Madjibe, West Africa representa- Nabulya (right) tive for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). from the Mengo According to Levy, the boy was most likely aban- Hospital Home doned by his mother, too weak from AIDS to take Care Team, an care of him any longer and ashamed to ask for MCC partner based in help. Kampala, hands It is a common story, and children taking care of out supplies from children is no longer an uncommon sight in Chad, the kits for a country of 9 million, where the AIDS rate has patients to use in nearly doubled in the last two years, climbing to an their homes. estimated 8 percent of the population. Dave Klassen One of the many cascading problems resulting from the epidemic is the growing number of AIDS orphans. In N’djamena, the capital, local MCC part- ners are flooded with requests from orphans and are provided for and able to smile once in a while. family members for aid. Not all can be helped, and An MCC partner, the Ethics, Peace and Justice families are often turned away or separated. Department (EPJ) of the national Protestant “The rest are for God to take care of,” says an Council of Churches, has enlisted local churches to orphan coordinator at Centre d’Education a la Vie support orphans. Pastor Yasa, the director of EPJ, Familiale, an MCC partner in N’djamena. “Someday hopes the churches will take a more active role in we will take care of all the orphans,” she adds hope- caring for the orphans. He invokes several pas- fully. The orphans that are received are found sages from Deuteronomy regarding the churches’ homes and supplied with sacks of cereal as well as responsibility to care for orphans while discussing That boy may clothing and tuition for school. the problem. very well be The problem of AIDS orphans is not limited to “This is the churches’ work,” he says. “Pastors Jesus Christ the city and extends throughout the countryside. must set the example.” walking among Those who would help orphans have difficulty find- Yasa repeats this message to pastors and church us today, curi- ing them due to the remote geography and limited committee members in rural villages. Some walk ous to see our road access to many village populations. In addi- long distances to listen to his testimony. Yasa response. tion, AIDS remains a taboo subject in most rural explains that even small donations like one cup of —Levy Madjibe areas. Many AIDS victims are reluctant or unable millet per week from church members can help an to make arrangements for their children due to orphan significantly. Church leaders say they are local prejudice and discrimination. The best way to eager to organize their congregations to aid locate new orphans is often through other orphans. orphans in their communities. In many families where subsistence farming is a “Right now we are crawling,” says one pastor. way of life, the oldest brother or sister simply “But soon we will walk.” becomes the head of the household after the par- As AIDS spreads, Perdu and many other ents die. In Pala, Sahba, 19, and his sister orphans are relying on whatever help their commu- Gapnonta, 16, are taking care of two younger sib- nities can provide. lings after losing their parents to AIDS. Levy Madjibe says, “That boy may very well be Gapnonta attends school in the morning and Jesus Christ walking among us today, curious to tends fields in the afternoon. Her own childhood is see our response.”—Jed Payne of Mennonite Central over, but she does her best to ensure her siblings Committee News Service

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 25 FOR THE RECORD

WORKERS Kurtz, Emily Elizabeth, April 1, to Kelly MARRIAGES Bruce and Diana Lapp Kurtz, Sarasota, Fla. Burkholder, Brian Martin, was ordained Bontrager/Walton: Karen Bontrager, Iowa, Landes, Tyson Blake, June 13 as campus pastor of Eastern July 26, to Phil and and Zach Walton, Ohio, July 31 at First Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, Va. Jana Bennett Landes, Bridgewater, Va. Mennonite Church, Bluffton, Ohio. Miller, Gavin Paul, Crockett, Maria, was ordained Aug. 8 as July 31, to LaVon and Brenneman/Konzelmann: Becky pastor at House of Power Fellowship, Gretchen Newcomer Miller, Shipshewana, Brenneman, Kinzers, Pa., and Mike Elkhart, Ind. Ind. Konzelmann, Narvon, Pa., July 3 at Summit Miller, Jaicey Arlene, Kniss, Carl D., was ordained and installed July 2, to B.J. and View Brethren in Christ Church, New Aug. 8 as pastor at Marion Mennonite Jana Graber Miller, Wayland, Iowa. Holland, Pa. Church, Chambersburg, Pa. Moreland, Samuel Cole Miller, Aug. 2, to Clark/Stuckey: Ashley Clark, Elkhart, Ind., Martin, Gary, began July 1 as interim pastor Tom and Rachel Beth Miller Moreland, and Matt Stuckey, Somerset, Mich., May 1 at Clinton Frame Mennonite Church, Goshen, Lancaster, Pa. at Northside Baptist, Elkhart. Ind. Plank, Meleah Elizabeth Qiau, June 11, Cole/Thornburg: Adam Cole, Urbana, Sancken, Joni, began Sept. 1 as interim 2003, received for adoption June 29 by Ohio, and Emily Thornburg, West Liberty, pastor at Germantown (Pa.) Mennonite Galen and Sherri Hollenberg Plank, Fort Ohio, July 24 at Ohio Caverns, West Liberty. Church. Wayne, Ind. Collins/Penner: Keith Collins, Altona, Man., Ramos, Benjamin Rosendo, Aug. 7, to and Tannis Penner, Altona, July 9 in Antonio and Gloria Keener Ramos, Winnipeg, Man. BIRTHS & ADOPTIONS Chambersburg, Pa. Danner/Smith: Greta Danner, Buhler, Kan., Correction: Malia Ann North Bauman's Regier, Bryan Jason, June 12, to Jason and Troy Smith, Buhler, June 19 at Buhler name was incorrectly listed as Malai North and Tori Gantz Regier, Hutchinson, Kan. Mennonite Church. Bauman in the Aug. 17 issue. Reimer, Jacob David, Aug. 7, to Charles Derstine/Detweiler: Kara Derstine, Telford, Balzer, Seth Austin, Aug. 2, to Paul and and Elizabeth Rogers Reimer, Topeka, Kan. Pa., and Anthony Detweiler, Harleysville, Pa., Janet Roesler Balzer, Hurley, S.D. Rhodes, Miriam Elizabeth, June 19, to July 24 at Franconia (Pa.) Mennonite Church. Boller, Julia Ann, July 21, to Jeff and Carol Jason and Laura Lehman Rhodes, Enns/Rempel: Carl Enns, Altona, Man., and Boller, Kalona, Iowa. Harrisonburg, Va. Kim Rempel, Altona, Aug. 21 in Altona. Buckwalter, Lauren Anna Jia, received for Rinner, Maggie Kara, May 9, to Tye and Friesen/Friesen: Bryon Friesen, Altona, adoption Aug. 2 by Gregg and Wendy Diane Stille Rinner, Wayland, Iowa. Man., and Courtney Friesen, Altona, June 26. Harkcom Buckwalter, Greencastle, Pa. Shingler, Anne Elise, July 27, to John and Gillespie/Krauss: Amanda Gillespie, Lititz, Echeverri, Camille Rose, July 17, to Mark Landa Lepley Shingler, Wooster, Ohio. Pa., and Brian Krauss, Syosset, N.Y., Aug. 1 and Christine Echeverri, Pasadena, Calif. Swartley, Paige Madison, July 29, to at East Petersburg (Pa.) Mennonite Church. Flaming, Kylie Danae, Aug. 16, to William Michael and Sandy Harris Swartley, Gordon/McGuckin: Donald Gordon, Jr., “Bill” and Amy Grant Flaming, Inman, Kan. Sellersville, Pa. and Jennifer McGuckin, Hartville, Ohio, July 24 at Hartville Mennonite Church. Friesen, Keegan Anthony, June 15, to Tyler, Colby Ryan, June 25, to Brent and James and Andrea Wishart Friesen, Mary Sauder Tyler, Pioneer, Ohio. Hiebert/Hildebrand: Michael Hiebert, Rosenfeld, Man. Weaver, Katilyn Marie, July 3, to Brian Altona, Man., and Jocelyn Hildebrand, Altona, July 10 at EMMC, Altona. Gerber, Ashlann Bayley, July 23, to Karsten and Tanya Fitzgerald Weaver, Greenville, Va. and Joanna Haman Gerber, East Greenville, Yoder, Norah Callista, June 28, to Greg Pa. and Sarah Yoder, Washington, Iowa. Goentzel, Ian Hart, June 20, to Jarrod Goentzel and Laura VanderHart, Cambridge, Mass. Goldberg, Levi Schirch, Aug. 7, to William Goldberg and Lisa Schirch, Harrisonburg, Va. Gouldey, Danae Anneliese, Aug. 19, to Michael and Kalyn Gerber Gouldey, Souderton, Pa. Horning, Dylan Miguel, May 11, 2003, received for adoption July 4 by Chad and Michelle Yoder Horning, Goshen, Ind. Huebert, Savannah Lynn, July 28, to Jerry and Pamela Richards Huebert, Aurora, Neb. Janecek, Ella Julianna, May 9, 2003, received for adoption July 19 by Shari Peterson Janecek. Jordan, Kyle Steven, Aug. 10, to Randall and Jayme Moyer Jordan, Sellersville, Pa. Knight-King, Lucy Olive, July 7, to Zach and Kelsey Knight-King, Washington, D.C. Kraybill, Mara Joy, Aug. 12, to Galen and Deb Kraybill, Lancaster, Pa. Kume, Macy Jade, July 19, to Eric and Adrienne Kauffman Kume, Albany, Ore.

26 TheMennonite September 7,2004 FOR THE RECORD

Kliewer/Waltner: Jeffrey Kliewer, Omaha, Benner, Kathryn C., 81, Hatfield, Pa., died Friesen, Diedrich D., 85, Altona, Man., died Neb., and Kimberly Waltner, Freeman, S.D., Aug. 17. Parents: Joseph M. and Ellen July 6. Spouse: Sue Falk Friesen. Parents: Aug. 7 at Swan Lake Christian Camp, Cramer Benner. Funeral: Aug. 21 at Peter P. and Justina Dueck Friesen. Children: Viborg, S.D. Souderton (Pa.) Mennonite Church. Judith Seesahai, Gloria Penner, Raymond, Martin/Stark: Nicole Martin, Harrisonburg, Blough, Robert, 82, Bluffton, Ohio, died Bruce, Laureen Iris Crampton; 13 grandchil- Va., and Zac Stark, Bradford, Pa., July 31. July 22. Spouse: Celia M. Blough. Parents: dren; seven great-grandchildren. Funeral: July 9 at Bergthaler Mennonite Church, McNeal/Smith: Jeffrey McNeal, Fishersville, Samuel and Ruth Horner Blough. Children: Neal, Keith, Laurie Miller; six grandchildren. Altona. Va., and Elizabeth Smith, Harrisonburg, Va., To submit event Funeral: July 27 at Immanuel Lutheran Friesen, Peter S., 94, Altona, Man., died July 24 at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. information to The Church, Deshler, Ohio. Aug. 9. Spouse: (1st) Sarah Hamm Friesen Mennonite, log on at Ortman/Smoker: Sara Ortman, Moundridge, Dirks, Katherine Dick, (deceased), (2nd) Neta Klippenstein Braun www.TheMennonite. Kan., and Jason Smoker, Lancaster, Pa., July 93, Inman, Kan., died June 16. Spouse: Elmer Dirks Friesen (deceased). Parents: Jacob J. and org and use the “For 31 at First Mennonite Church, Halstead, Kan. the Record” button to (deceased). Parents: Klaas M. and Maria Elizabeth Schmidt Friesen. Children: Bernie, Esther, Menno; 11 grandchildren; 14 great- access our on-line Scheifele/Scrivens: Kevin Scheifele, West Franz Dick. Child: Keith; two grandchildren; forms. You can also Liberty, Ohio, and Candice Scrivens, Elyria, three great-grandchildren. Funeral: June 20 grandchildren. Funeral: Aug. 13 at Bergthaler Mennonite Church, Altona. submit by email, fax Ohio, July 3 at Greensburg (Ohio) United at Buhler (Kan.) Mennonite Church. or mail: Methodist Church. Gamber, Arthur, 93, Lancaster, Pa., died Dueck, Jacob F., 72, Altona, Man., died •Editor@ Shuman/Troyer: Stephen Shuman, June 20. Spouse: Elsie Hiebert Dueck. May 13. Spouse: Ruth Whistler Gamber. TheMennonite.org Parents: David S. and Emma Beamsderfer Hartville, Ohio, and Kellie Troyer, Uniontown, Parents: Jacob S. and Sarah Deuck. Children: •fax 574-535-6050 Ohio, Aug. 7 at Hartville Mennonite Church. Gary, Ron, Brian, Jim, Joel, Tom, Pauline Gamber. Children: Joanne G. Markley, Emma Jean Fitzmaurice, Geraldine K. •1700 S. Main St., Friesen; 13 grandchildren. Funeral: June 24 Goshen, IN 46526- at Bergthaler Mennonite Church, Altona. Charles, Darlene G. Fenstermacher, A. Dale; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchil- 4794 DEATHS Eck, Viola Becker, 96, Dallas, Texas, died dren. Burial: May 16 in Lancaster. Augsburger, Sharon Daniel, 71, Sarasota, July 25. Spouse: Joel D. Eck (deceased). Goertzen, Eldon, 82, Hesston, Kan., died Fla., died July 26 of cancer. Spouse: Garnieta Parents: Barney and Anna Smith Becker. Aug. 7. Spouse: Susie Flaming Goertzen. Brenneman Augsburger. Parents: Clarence Children: Doris Eck Swartz, Norma Eck Koehn, Parents: Daniel and Pauline Schmidt and Estella Augsburger. Children: Darlene Jo Ann Eck Isaac, Gloria Eck Struble, Wayne; Goertzen. Children: Brenda Buller, Stanley; Ramsey, Wayne, Keith; five grandchildren. 16 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild. Funeral: July 29 at Bahia Vista Mennonite 19 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral: July Funeral: Aug. 11 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Sarasota. 29 at Hesston (Kan.) Mennonite Church. Church, Newton, Kan.

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 27 FOR THE RECORD

Hartman, Ellen Pellman, 77, Harrisonburg, Rittenhouse, Howard S. “Jim”, 87, Stuckey, Gary, 56, West Unity, Ohio, died Va., died July 27. Spouse: Dwight Hartman. Souderton, Pa., died June 23. Spouse: Aug. 7 from burns received during a farm- Parents: LeRoy and Elizabeth Lauver Shirley Snoke Rittenhouse. Parents: Joseph ing accident. Spouse: Marlene Gerig Pellman. Children: Jim, Jeanne Hartman and Ella Nora Metz. Funeral: June 25 at Stuckey. Parents: Loren and Rutheda Rinker, Curt; seven grandchildren; three Souderton Mennonite Homes Fellowship. Grieser Stuckey. Children: Timothy Lee, great-grandchildren. Funeral: July 30 at Rupp, Lucretia Sauder, 95, Archbold, Chris Allen, Ryan Gary, Amy Lynne Stevens; Park View Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg. Ohio, died July 27. Spouse: Lawrence Rupp four grandchildren. Funeral: Aug. 12 at Herr, Elmer Grant, 99, Harrisonburg, Va., (deceased). Parents: Daniel and Annie Lockport Mennonite Church, Stryker, Ohio. died Aug. 3. Spouse: Sara Graybill Herr. Schrock Sauder. Children: Geneva Wyse, Unruh, Lena Wiens, 101, Moses Lake, Wa., Parents: Elmer J. and Fannie Miller Herr. Marlin, Mabel Ann Kauffman, Glenden, died July 24. Spouse: Edwin Unruh Children: Kenneth D., Lowell G.; four grand- Janette Yoder; 30 grandchildren; 74 great- (deceased). Parents: Abraham and Mary children; three great-grandchildren. Funeral: grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchil- Brown Wiens. Children: John, Lois Reimer; Aug. 13 at Park View Mennonite Church, dren. Funeral: July 31 at North Clinton 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren. Harrisonburg. Mennonite Church, Wauseon, Ohio. Funeral: July 31 at Memorial Chapel Kandel, Olen, 84, Fisher, Ill., died July 24. Schrock, Roger V., 70, Orrville, Ohio, died Hillsboro, Kan. Spouse: Eunice Kandel (deceased). Parents: June 22 of a heart attack. Spouse: Carol Wyatt, O. Earl, 85, Albany, Ore., died Aug. Abe and Amanda Kandel. Children: Rita Schloneger Schrock. Parents: Vernon and 13. Spouse: Pauline Widmer Wyatt. Parents: Smith, Frank, Ernie, Jeanette Unzicker; Ada Miller Schrock. Children: Kim Mullet, James and Hester Duncan Wyatt. Children: seven grandchildren. Funeral: July 27 at Wendy Mann, Von; six grandchildren. Marcine Jackson, Miriam Rasmussen; two East Bend Mennonite Church, Fisher. Funeral: June 25 at Smithville (Ohio) grandchildren. Funeral: Aug. 18 at Albany Kornhaus, Mary Shoup, 99, Orrville, Ohio, Mennonite Church. Mennonite Church. died July 23. Spouse: Russell Kornhaus Simons, Cecil, 95, Indianapolis, died June Zimmerman, Titus N., 79, Ephrata, Pa., died (deceased). Parents: Henry and Sara Zigler 15. Spouse: Ruth Simons (deceased). Child: July 28. Spouse: Ursula B. Denlinger Shoup. Children: William, James; nine grand- Larry G.; four grandchildren; seven great- Zimmerman. Parents: Mahlon and Esther children; 25 great-grandchildren. Funeral: grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild. Nolt Zimmerman. Children: Robert, Mark, July 27 at Orrville Mennonite Church. Funeral: June 19 at G.H. Hermann Roy, Clair, Marie Miller, Sharon Good; 28 Kuntz, Emily, 51, Delta, Ohio, died Aug. 6. Greenwood Funeral Home, Indianapolis. grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren. Spouse: Rod Kuntz. Parents: Malcom Peirce Funeral: Aug. 2 at Ephrata Mennonite and Clara Thompson. Children: Lisa Miller, Church. Ian, July Bame; three grandchildren. Funeral: Aug. 14 at North Clinton Mennonite Church, Wauseon, Ohio. Lehman, Earl M., Goshen, Ind., died July 2. Spouse: Phyllis Maltby Lehman. Parents: Joseph and Mollie Zehr Lehman. Children: John, Clark, Sidney, Stephen; 11 grandchil- dren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great- great-grandchild. Funeral: July 10 at The Meeting Place, Greencroft, Goshen. Martin, Aden, 79, Elmira, Ont., died Aug. 7. Spouse: Alice Bearinger Martin (deceased). Parents: Emerson and Barbara Sauder Martin. Children: Virgil, Neil; three grand- children. Funeral: Aug. 10 at St. Jacobs Mennonite Church, St. Jacobs, Ont. Martin, Luella Zehr, 79, Crohgan, N.Y., died June 28. Spouse: Alvin Martin. Parents: Christian and Martha Moser Zehr. Children: Thomas, Harry, Peter, LouAnn Martin, Sara Adams, Kay Lyndaker. Funeral: July 1 at Crohgan Mennonite Church. Miller, Harold J., 94, Goshen, Ind., died July 31. Spouse: (1st) Ethel Norwood Miller (deceased), (2nd) Evelyn Esch Miller (deceased). Parents: John D. and Melinda Miller. Children: Margaretha Brubacher, Genevive Kehr, Eva Burroway, Daniel B.; stepchildren Elinor Surgener, Lora Miranda, Karen Patrick, Carl Esch, Thomas Esch; 27 grandchildren; 14 step-grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; 26 step-great-grand- children. Funeral: Aug. 3 in Goshen. Moser, DeEtta Zehr, 68, Crohgan, N.Y., died July 3. Spouse: Lyle Moser (deceased). Parents: Harold and Edna Martin Zehr. Children: Daniel, Lyle Willard, Sheryl Martin, Juanita Van Dyke; nine grandchil- dren; three great-grandchildren. Burial: July 7 at Crohgan Mennonite Church.

28 TheMennonite September 7,2004 CLASSIFIED

Vice president of health services. Hillcrest, is a 400-resident Clinton Frame Mennonite Church in Goshen, Ind., a 500+ mem- CCRC and Church of the Brethren facility in La Verne, Calif. Hillcrest ber church is seeking a youth/associate pastor. Our junior youth seeks vice president (assisted living, Alzheimer, skilled nursing and and MYF have an enrollment of 80 plus. Applicants should be on residential living). Candidate must have excellent communication fire for Christ with personal devotional time daily, love for serving skills, leadership abilities and collaborative abilities. NHA required. and mission, Anabaptist belief, team player, good teacher, prefer a RCFE preferred. Resumés accepted until Sept. 17. Contact Ralph bachelor’s degree and possibly some seminary education and McFadden; email [email protected]; fax 847-742-5160. experience working with youth. Our desire is to have this position Rosedale Bible College is seeking applicants for the position of filled by someone who is following God’s calling toward youth pas- president. The ideal candidate will have a high view of Scripture, tor as a long-term ministry. If your gifts fit our needs, please con- an advanced degree, administrative experience, a clear vision for tact Bob Yoder at IN-MI Mennonite Conference, 800-288-8486 or the school and strong communication and public relations gifts, email [email protected]. and must be fully supportive of the theological positions of Conservative Mennonite Conference. The position will be available Advertising space in The Mennonite is available to congregations, conferences, businesses, and July 1, 2005. Send resumé to Levi Sommers, 2950-B Central Ave., churchwide boards and agencies. Cost for one-time classified placement is $1.15 per word, minimum Canon City, CO 81212, or email [email protected]. of $30. Display space is also available. To place an ad in The Mennonite, call 800-790-2498 and ask for Marla Cole, or email Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission (AIMM) is seeking an executive [email protected]. coordinator to lead in the implementation of “Partnership Africa,” AIMM’s renewed vision for an international and inter-Mennonite mission venture in and from Africa. While responsibility for actual program decision-making is being shifted to Partnership Councils operating in the country of mission activity, certain networking and facilitating responsibilities will be required centrally. Hence AIMM will maintain an International Central Council (ICC) with a small central office staff. The executive coordinator will work on behalf of and be accountable to the AIMM ICC. The actual full-time equivalent (FTE) of the position is negotiable. It will, however, be the responsibility of the executive coordinator to ensure that all the necessary func- tions of the central office are professionally attended to, either by the executive coordinator or other staff. A list of these central office functions is available on request. The successful candidate for this position should have the fol- lowing qualifications: (1) an Anabaptist/Mennonite approach to Christian faith and mission, (2) experience and knowledge of mis- sion in Africa, (3) fluency in English and French, (4) ability to build and coordinate a new organization. Currently the AIMM administrative office is located in Goshen, Ind., but the executive coordinator may be located elsewhere in North America or in Africa. The position may begin as early as Jan. 1, 2005, or as late as July 1, 2005. Salary, benefits and FTE nego- tiable. Applications should be received by Sept. 15. Letters of appli- cation or other inquiries should be sent to Dave Dyck, Transition Coordinator, 660 Bardal Bay, Winnipeg, MB R2G 0J2; email dmdy- [email protected]; phone 204-663-4342. Youth are sweet. Jesus is sweeter, yo! If you agree, consider com- ing to love and lead our youth at Gingrichs Mennonite Church, Lebanon, Pa. For information on a position as full-time youth director, contact Cathy Boshart 717-272-8723 or [email protected]. Franconia Mennonite Church, located in Franconia, Pa., is seek- ing a talented, energetic individual to fill the position of music director and lead a congregation of over 735 members in our music ministry. This very important role will give leadership to all music areas within the church, including adult and children choirs, music planning for worship services and congregational singing. For more information or to request a detailed job description, please contact Keith Berger at 215-723-3320. Resumés may be sent to [email protected]. Provident Bookstores is looking for a full-time assistant manag- er to work at our Goshen bookstore. Experience in supervision and desire to provide excellent customer service required. Send resumé to PBS Human Resources, 1625 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601; email [email protected]. Adriel, a Mennonite children’s agency, seeks a full-time campus pastor. Responsibilities include spiritual guidance for youth and staff, coordination of summer program and relating to broader church. Bachelor’s degree in social services, education or ministry required with seminary degree/degree in youth ministry preferred. Contact Karla Gingerich at 937-465-0010 ext. 137, or [email protected]. EOE.

September 7,2004 TheMennonite 29 RESOURCES Francis of Assisi: Performing the Gospel Building on the Gospel Foundation: The painter and educator from the Indian sub- Life by Lawrence S. Cunningham (Eerdmans, Mennonites of Franklin County, continent who was awarded the Nobel Prize 2004, $14) argues that Francis was a devot- Pennsylvania, and Washington County, for Literature in 1913. edly orthodox Catholic whose life must be Maryland, 1730-1970 by Edsel Burdge Jr. understood as a response to reforming ele- and Samuel L. Horst (Herald Press, 2004, Fasting by Carole Garibaldi Rogers (Sorin ments abroad in the church of his day. $49.99) tells the stories of three centuries of Books, 2004, $12.95) and Pilgrimage by faith and life among the Washington County Edward C. Sellner (Sorin Books, 2004, $12.95) The Lord Is My Shepherd: Psalms to (Md.) and Franklin County (Pa.) Mennonites. are two new books in the series Exploring a Accompany Us on Our Journey Through Great Spiritual Practice, which combines eas- Aging by Albert Michael Lewis (Eerdmans, Us & Them: Bridging the Chasm of Faith ily understood practice tools with compre- 2004, $15) reflects on Psalm 23, Psalm 98 by W.C. Scheurer (Interfaith Journey, 2004, hensive, credible information about the ori- and Psalm 121 and relates them to a journey $8) consists of 20 brief essays on such topics gin, theory and contemporary relevance of through aging. as humility, conscience, compassion, idolatry the practice. and skepticism. To an Angel Who Is New by Arno Bohlmeijer What Do You Know About Hunger? (Church (Eerdmans, 2004, $15) consists of writings by The Way of Jesus, edited by Tony D’Souza World Service, 2004) is a 24-page booklet the author to his wife, Marian, who was in a (Eerdmans, 2004, $12), is a modernization of with simulations, skits, bulletin inserts and coma and later died after they and their two an anonymous mystical masterpiece discov- worship materials that congregations can young daughters were in a bad car accident. ered in 1516 and first published by Martin use to lift up the issue of hunger. Up to 10 Luther. It consists of 54 short, pithy chapters. copies are free. Order from CWS, P.O. Box Sacred Rhythms: Finding a Peaceful Pace 968, Elkhart, IN 46515; 800-297-1516. in a Hectic World by Christine Sine (Baker Hafiz: The Mystic Poets and Tagore: The Book House, 2004, $12.99) describes how Mystic Poets (SkyLight Paths, 2004, $16.99 Katya by Sandra Birdsell (Milkweed Editions, our lives can reflect God’s rhythms of peace, each) introduces poetry fans and spiritual 2004, $24) is a novel published earlier in celebration and rest instead of the world’s seekers to classic mystic poets. Each book in Canada with the title The Russlander. It tells stressful, hurried pace. the series includes a brief introduction to the the story of the Russian Revolution through poet’s time and place, a summary of the the eyes of a young Mennonite girl. Lord, Show Me Your Glory: 52 Weekly poet’s major themes, essential selections Meditations on the Majesty of God by from the poet’s works and a preface by a Our People: The Amish and Mennonites of Ethel Herr (Christian Publications, 2004, contemporary spiritual writer. Hafiz was a Ohio by Levi Miller (Herald Press, 2004, $14.99) is available from the author at Sufi master from Persia who died in 1389. $7.99) is the third edition of this book, which [email protected], www. ethelherr.com. Rabindranath Tagore was a poet, playwright, includes photos by Doyle Yoder.

30 TheMennonite September 7,2004 September 7,2004 TheMennonite 31 EDITORIAL

Picking presidents

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be usually a dead-end for the college: After instilling also.—Matthew 6:21 this elitism into its students, alumni pass it along to their children, who then want to “move up” to a wo Mennonite colleges are in presidential more prestigious school. Mennonite Church USA is search processes. Mennonite Education then no longer the treasure toward which the next T Agency, the umbrella organization for schools generation of students inclines their hearts. within Mennonite Church USA, is partnering with Another temptation is to focus on the geographic both Hesston (Kan.) College and Goshen (Ind.) region—and an attractive non-Mennonite market— Everett J. Thomas College in their searches. in which the school is located. A campus culture Hesston and Goshen are making seminal choic- that resonates with the values and worldview of its es. Both colleges must choose new presidents that region can be a powerful form of missional educa- will bring their campuses and faculties even closer tion. But if the campus culture becomes too assimi- to Mennonite Church USA. We need our colleges lated and the percentage of Mennonite students to provide fresh generations of leadership for our drops to marginal levels, the college runs the risk fledgling denomination as we work at being a mis- of being more an expression of its locale than an sional church (see page 8). expression of Mennonite Church USA. Alumni may “The selection of a president is one of the most be loyal to the school and send their children there important decisions [for a college] because it has a but not because they have a heart for our church. tremendous impact on the ethos and life and future On June 1, we published a news release from of the institution,” says MEA executive director Mennonite Education Agency that showed the Carlos Romero. growth or decline of student populations in each Leading a church college today is a daunting level of Mennonite schooling (“Mennonite Schools task. There are many constituent groups—includ- See Combined Gain”). All sectors grew except our ing equally articulate faculties, alumni, parents and colleges. MEA provided no analysis of this differ- donors—that expect the institution to move in the ence, but I contend it is happening because direction they want. So complex has become the Mennonite elementary schools, high schools and seminaries have remained closer to the church than have most of our Mennonite colleges. Colleges must choose presidents who will bring Drawing closer to the church is the critical issue facing the search committees at Goshen and their campuses even closer to Mennonite Church USA. Hesston. At the end of each new president’s tenure, each institution will be either closer to Mennonite task of leading colleges—especially four-year, liber- Church USA or further away. Fortunately, both col- al arts colleges—that higher education leadership leges have been on trajectories bringing them clos- has become an academic discipline in itself. So er to being “church-owned,” with accountability to search committees may place a high value on can- the denomination rather than ambiguously didates who already have training in this emerging “church-affiliated” and at arms length from the academic speciality. But specialization in this or a church. It is critical for Mennonite Church USA related field does not necessarily mean a strong that both colleges remain on this path. commitment to Mennonite Church USA. The search committees and Mennonite Note: We received The next presidents of Hesston and Goshen face Education Agency have a challenging task before news about the incredible pressure to value things other than the them as they discern the best leaders for Goshen presidential can- denomination that created them. Most common is and Hesston. Both institutions belong to the didate at Hesston the temptation toward academic elitism. However, church. But both will remain church-owned only if (Kan.) College as this issue was when a campus yields to this temptation and such a Mennonite Church USA is the great treasure going to press. value becomes the treasure toward which its heart buried deep in the hearts of the new presidents and See page 19. is inclined, the church loses. Furthermore, it is the campus culture that emerges.—ejt

32 TheMennonite September 7,2004