3 A Vision For CMU 6 A Modern Day Miracle 9 Students say thanks for support THE
CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE r WINTER 2008 Editor’s Note
he transition from high school to univer- sity is a challenging time for Christian T youth. It is a time when they ask: “Who am I?” “What do I believe?” And “Why do I believe it?” If they don’t take time to wrestle with those questions, they run the risk of hav- ing someone else supply the answers. It’s also a time for finding out what they should do with their lives. In his book, After Virtue, philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre writes: “I Kirsten Hamm of Altona, Man. writes a note of gratitude on the “Wall ‘O Thanks” during the November can only answer the question ‘What am I to do?’ 26 Tuition Freedom Day at CMU. See story page 9. if I answer the prior question: ‘Of what story do I find myself a part?’” For Christians, the story that gives meaning and shape to life comes Table of Contents: from the overarching narrative of God’s work in history. 3 A Vision for CMU: A Conversation with CMU is a place where students can take time to wrestle with life’s big questions. It’s a place President Gerald Gerbrandt where they can learn—as CMU’s theme verse 6 The Miracle of CMU for the year puts it—to love God with all their heart, soul and mind, and their neighbours as 9 News from CMU: themselves. Tuition Freedom Day; Peace Journal Finds New CMU is embarking on a process of find- ing out how it can best help students in the Home; New Book about Growing Up in Turbulent future—how it can help them develop their Times; Course Combines Theory, Practice; God given talents and minds so they can serve Outtatown Students Learn From Poor in Canada; the church and the world more fully. At the Students Learn About Ministry Opportunities; same time, the university is seeking its place in God’s grand story for the church in Canada. Habits of Defective Sermons Described; Blazer Your prayers and support in this important Women Win Championship; Business Professor endeavor are greatly appreciated! Hired; Homecoming, 2008; Winter Lectures Explore John Longhurst, Editor Art, Incarnation
Moving? 19 People & Events Drop us a line, fill out the web form at 21 Alumni News www.cmu.ca/alumni.html or email [email protected] 23 President’s Message
Design and Layout by: The Blazer is a publication of Canadian Mennonite University, published three times a year. Editor/Communications Director: John Longhurst | Alumni/Constituency Relations Coordinator: Eleonore Braun J8DJFE Printed in Canada by Friesens, Altona, MB | Made with recycled paper (30% recycled, 20% post consumer). ;
On the cover: Michael Friesen, Jonathon Dyck, Zach Peters, Dylan Tarnowsky and Jesssica Dyck at the Manitoba Legislature. 2 winter 2008 A Vision for CMU n 2007 CMU initiated a vision- how we intend to work at our mission, ing process, called “Seeing 2020,” to keeping in mind the unique dynamics Iimagine where the university might and realities of CMU, along with the be 12 years from now. As part of the pro- particular challenges and opportuni- cess, a dozen or so people, both internal ties that we face. and external, wrote short papers on key elements of the larger environment Blazer: What is central to CMU’s within which CMU finds itself. Then, in vision? October, last year, over 70 people gath- ered for a retreat to reflect on how CMU Gerbrandt: CMU has been called might most effectively advance its mis- into being to serve the church and sion within that context. In the inter- the larger society. It is, as I frequently view below, President Gerald Gerbrandt say, “a university of the church for the reflects on the process thus far, and on world.” Our success is not measured what CMU might become in the future. solely by student numbers and bal- anced budgets, critical as they are, Blazer: Why conduct a visioning pro- but more significantly by how well we cess now? serve the church and society. Students, of course, are important since it is pri- Gerbrandt: CMU is at a critical junc- marily through them that we have our ture in its development. We have come impact. But the vision of CMU always a long way since our founding in 2000, looks beyond itself. in some ways surpassing the original The draft vision statement we now vision, in other ways falling short. The are testing speaks of our vision in two goal of “Seeing 2020” is first of all to ways. First, that the church—most develop a vision statement, and then especially the Mennonite churches secondly a strategic plan which will that support CMU, but others, too— inspire faculty, staff and friends of see CMU as providing intellectual, CMU, as well as guide the next decade emotional and spiritual leadership as or so of growth and development. the church in Canada transitions into a This vision statement will spell out post-modern context. This leadership
springwinter 20062008 3 CMU is at is needed both when Christians are First of all, CMU needs to grow its a critical gathered together as a church commu- reputation as a university. This will nity, as well as for when they scatter for require us to expand academic pro- juncture in its mission. grams so we can offer the breadth and development This leadership is reflected especially depth of programming typical of insti- in how we inspire and educate students, tutions of our size, while continuing and also through the contribution of with a solid core in the classic areas of our faculty and staff, and through spe- knowledge. cial events, conferences and lectures. Second, we need to grow in stu- Second, we hope that the larger dent numbers. Despite demographic society—even if it does necessar- and other challenges, we believe such ily understand CMU’s Christian faith growth is possible. This is not based on orientation—will nevertheless recog- blind faith in growth, but on the con- nize CMU as a place which prepares viction that CMU’s particular charac- students not only to succeed in their ter and strengths have the potential to vocation—which it does—but also to make a greater impact upon church and make a difference for good in whatever society. context they find themselves. Third, we need to do some capital This is an ambitious vision. But I expansion. For example, Menno Simons believe that the needs of the church, as College needs better space, and the well as society, call out for an institution Main Campus needs a new library and like CMU. classrooms. In all of this we need to continue our Blazer: How can CMU accomplish commitment to excellence in every- this vision? thing we do, along with fostering a rewarding workplace experience for Gerbrandt: The detailed planning will all faculty and staff. take place in the next stage of the pro- cess, but we have already identified a Blazer: What do you mean by “particu- few general areas. lar character and strengths”?
4 winter 2008 Gerbrandt: As our mission statement Blazer: What does this visioning pro- states, CMU is a Christian university, cess mean for programming? rooted in the Anabaptist faith tradition. When I look at the world in which we Gerbrandt: We will develop detailed live I see stories of war, terrorism, injus- plans later, but we already know that we tice and fear. But I also see a spiritual need to strengthen the arts and sciences hunger among many young adults, even core at the Grant and Shaftesbury cam- as they say they are disenchanted with pus. We need to do this in a way that the institutional church. I believe that gives students a well-rounded educa- CMU’s Anabaptist faith tradition has tion—one that prepares them for life much to say in this climate today. as part of the people of God, and that We can provide a message of hope out at the same time gives them skills they of this tradition in at least four ways. need to thrive in a career. First, there is our commitment to edu- We also need to strengthen our pro- cating for justice and peace, a commit- gramming at Menno Simons College, ment that colours all of our programs. and continue to grow the Outtatown Second, we believe learning takes place program. We will also want to look at through thinking and doing. Practica ways to increase the diversity of our requirements, internships and a co-op student body, of implementing a co-op program represent this emphasis. program, and of finding ways of using Third, we are committed to generous technology more effectively. hospitality and radical dialogue. CMU The next stage of the process will be welcomes all, fostering dialogue across an exciting one. Our task is to work the many chasms which divide people together to respond to that need and today. opportunity. And when I say “work And, fourth, we strive to model com- together,” I mean not just those of us munity at a time when individualism is who work for CMU, but also that amaz- rampant. At CMU we want to be a nur- ing body of supporters who believe in turing community where people learn this mission. together, support each other, foster I recognize that we face some chal- compassion and promote hope. lenges. Student demographics in Canada A key element of our identity, which are projected to decline, so enrolment I believe serves us well, is our distrib- is definitely one thing we need to take uted nature. The campus at Grant and into consideration. Finances are another Shaftesbury is home base for CMU. challenge—although we receive some But we also have Menno Simons Col- government support, we remain very lege, our campus at the University of dependent upon the generosity of the Winnipeg, with its Conflict Resolution church and friends. The general decrease and International Development Stud- in denominational loyalty also affects ies programs. And our reach extends the dynamics of a school like ours. around the world through our Out- But I feel there also is tremendous tatown adventure and discipleship opportunity. I believe that the needs of school, which finds students dispersed the church, as well as the world, call out CMU has been across Canada and in South Africa and for an institution like CMU. B called into being Guatemala, and through our practicum What is your response to CMU’s program, which finds students doing vision for the future? Send your thoughts to serve the internships in other countries. This to President Gerald Gerbrandt at church and the distributed nature of CMU provides [email protected] larger society both missional and practical advan- tages for CMU.
winter 2008 5 CMU—A Modern Day Miracle
By David Leis Enrolment was down, enthusiasm for those enter- s CMU a modern day miracle? prises was dropping and support was falling off. I believe it is. Of course, I’m biased—I work Without divine intervention, the two schools would for CMU. But I wonder if many other people have failed, eliminating a key way of providing Chris- also agree that that the creation of CMU was tian higher education from a Mennonite and evan- nothing short of miraculous, and that it plays gelical perspective in Canada. a vital role not only in the lives of students, but What a loss that would have been! I am convinced for the life of the whole church. that healthy, vibrant Christian schools are key to the But first, what is a miracle, anyway? For success of the church. The Bible repeatedly calls us Christian theologian and philosopher Thomas to pass faith along to the next generation. One way Aquinas, a miracle is something “done by divine agen- we do that is through church itself. But many Chris- cy beyond the order commonly observed in nature.” tians today go to church only once a week, and Sunday In other words, it is more than just something that school attendance is falling—a recent study of Men- is really extraordinary, or which seems like a benefi- nonite Church USA found that only eight percent of cial coincidence. A miracle is a divinely caused event, Mennonites in that country attend church services something that is different from what would have more than once weekly, and that just over half attend occurred in the normal course of events. Sunday school. I suspect that the figures may be simi- I think that something like that happened to cre- lar for Canada. ate CMU. I believe that God moved in a special way, If this is the case, how can the faith be passed on if through the prayers and actions of people of vision, people get together so infrequently? How can people— to make this new university. For the normal course especially youth—find opportunities to strengthen of events prior to CMU’s creation was decline— their Christian convictions in our increasingly secu- both CMBC and Concord College were struggling. lar world? The forces of our post-modern culture are
6 winter 2008 very powerful; the challenge facing the church to “It is important for Christians to think about the bibli- offer an alternative to the broader culture is more cal story and the proper place of education and learn- important than ever before. ing within that story. The Bible presents to us a true I grew up believing in the saying that “as goes story of a Creator God who made us in His image and the school, so goes the church.” A more blunt way who placed us in this good earth to live and move and of saying it is that those who capture the minds have our being in Him. God created us with minds to of young people, capture the think, and skills to serve Him. future. I cannot think of a more “Higher education, for Chris- urgent time for Christians to real- God moved in a special tians, is about developing our ize that,without strong Christian God-given minds, and deepen- schools, people of faith may be way to make CMU ing our wisdom about the world unprepared to thoughtfully and in order to serve God more fully critically deal with the thorny eth- …college is the place in which we ical, political, social and economic develop a Christian mind and skills issues that face us today. in order to worship God and love others more com- In his book The Fabric of Faithfulness, Steven pletely and faithfully.” Garber notes that the university years are extremely Helping students develop their God-given minds formative for youth. During those years, he says, and become thoughtful Christians is our goal at decisions are made “that are determinative for the CMU. According to Dr. Allan Ronald, a dedicated rest of life. In the modern world, the years between Christian and one of Canada’s foremost microbiolo- 18 and 25 are a time for the settling of one’s convic- gists, it’s a very important task. Speaking at CMU’s tions about meaning and morality: Why do I get up annual Celebration Dinner last April, he stated that in the morning? What do I do after I get up in the while many people today know about the church’s morning? One then settles into life with those convic- tions as the shaping presup- positions and principles of one’s entire life.” That’s why Christian uni- versity education at CMU is so important. We exist to help Christian youth devel- op strong convictions during these important and forma- tive years—convictions that will sustain them throughout their lives and careers. For CMU, these convic- tions about meaning and morality don’t come out of thin air. They are based on the overarching narrative of God’s work in history and in our lives. In their article “Navigating the College Transition,” Derek Melleby and Susan Den Herder write:
winter 2008 7 charitable activities, they assume “that Christians don’t develop skills so they can enter a variety of careers. think…it is assumed that we can’t deal with the world’s None of this would be possible without God’s problems.” miraculous intervention. Miracle after miracle But, he said, through CMU the church can change enabled CMU to be created, beginning with the that false assumption. Through our courses and prayerful and dedicated work of people of vision; other activities we can show that the granting of a charter by the “Christians can be critical and province of Manitoba; the provi- compassionate” as we help stu- Helping students become sion of a generous annual oper- dents to participate in the “great thoughtful Christians is ating grant from the provincial conversation” of politics, philoso- government; and the inclusion phy, science, literature and other our goal at CMU of Menno Simons College and subjects. the Outtatown School of Dis- We can, he said, help students cipleship into the CMU family. become aware of the “great debates in the world,” At each step along the way, God’s hand has been become biblically literate and be “critical thinkers of evident. the culture offered to us.” Do miracles happen today? You bet! If you need evi- Our goal at CMU is to prepare students to partici- dence, you don’t need to look further than CMU. B pate in those great conversations and become thought- ful Christians. We want to help them find their place David Leis is the Vice President for Advancement at within the larger story of God’s work in the world. We CMU. This article is based on a presentation he gave at want to help them deal with life’s big questions, and Bethel Mennonite Church.
8 winter 2008 CMU News Students Mark Tuition Freedom Day
TAKE TIME TO SAY THANKS TO CHURCHES, DONORS, GOVERNMENT
On November 25, last year, students at CMU stopped paying for their education. No, they aren’t going to school free for the rest of the year. Someone still has to provide funds to keep the university open. It’s just that they aren’t pay- ing the bills anymore. November 25 marked the day in CMU’s fiscal year, which runs April 30 Jessica Dyck, Dylan Tarnowsky, Zach Peters, Jonathan Dyck, Gabrielle Plenert and Michael Friesen show Diane McGifford, to May 1, when tuition Minister for Advanced Education and Literacy (third from left), the “Wall ‘O’ Thanks” at the Manitoba Legislature. fees paid by students no longer covered the uni- and conferences to pro- at Winnipeg’s Booth Diane McGifford, Minis- versity’s expenses. After vide support for the College. “It had a lasting ter for Advanced Educa- that date, funds from the university. impact on my life,” added tion and Literacy, at the provincial government, “We believe in stu- Curt, who is an Assistant Manitoba Legislature. church groups and indi- dents who willfully opt Director of Athletics at the McGifford told the stu- vidual donors take CMU to embrace a Christian University of Manitoba. dents she was touched through to the end of the worldview, and inten- After the forum, stu- that they would take time year. tionally integrate faith dents were invited to to say thanks. “Usually During a special Tuition into their educational write a word of gratitude the only time I hear from Freedom Day forum on pursuits,” he said. “We can’t on a “Wall ‘O’ Thanks” students is when they are November 26, students help but remain engaged outside the chapel. complaining about how expressed their gratitude with CMU and you.” For CMU President high their tuitions are to those who give to keep C u r t a n d B u e t t a Gerald Gerbrandt, the or asking me to enforce CMU going—and enable Warkentin, who grad- event was an opportunity another tuition freeze,” them to get an education. uated from CMBC (one to “highlight that pay- she said. “ We w a nt t o s ay of CMU’s predecessor ing for higher education CMU’s total budget for ‘thanks,’ because we want colleges), spoke on behalf involves a partnership the year is around $12 to go to school and we of donors. They said among students, the gov- million. Of that amount, want to graduate,” said that their experience ernment, the church and 38 percent comes from Student Council Presi- as students motivated generous supporters, and program fees and tuition, dent Dylan Tarnoswky. them to give back to the then to thank the govern- approximately 25 percent I n r e s p o n s e , D a n university. ment and others for their comes from the Manitoba Block, Executive Direc- “My time at CMBC participation.” government, and roughly tor of the Mennonite helped develop pieces On January 25 six stu- 16 percent comes from Bret hren C hurch of of myself that I can now dents had a chance to churches and donors. The Manitoba, spoke about give back to the world at express their thanks to remainder comes from why he believes it is large,” said Buetta, who the Manitoba government student housing income important for churches now teaches social work in person when they met and facilities rentals. B
winter 2008 9 CMU News Oldest Canadian Peace Journal Finds New Home at Menno Simons College Canada’s oldest continuous publica- tion devoted to the study of peace has found a new home at Menno Simons College (MSC), CMU’s cam- pus at the University of Winnipeg. Peace Research: The Canadian Journal of Peace and Conflict Stud- ies, originally founded in 1969 as a newsletter of the Canadian Peace Research Institute, is Canada’s fore- most and oldest scholarly journal about issues of conflict, violence, poverty, peace and human well- being. From 1984 to 2006 it was edited, managed and shaped into New Peace Research Journal editors Rick McCutcheon (left) and John Derksen (right) with the Journal’s founders, M.V. and Prema Naidu. a peer-reviewed professional jour- nal by Dr. M.V. Naidu and his wife, said, kept the journal going during studies in the 1960s, peace research Prema, of Brandon, Man. those tough times. “For them, it was was not supported or encouraged in When illness required the Naidus a labour of love.” academic circles. “But I made a per- to relinquish their responsibilities, In his remarks, McCutcheon sonal commitment to keep it alive,” two years ago, MSC was chosen to noted that, for the Naidus, taking on he said. take it over. Rick McCutcheon and the Journal was a “catalyst moment” Peace Research Journal is pub- John Derksen, both Assistant Pro- that “changed their lives.” The best lished twice a year and is distributed fessors of Conflict Resolution Stud- way to honour them, he stated, was internationally. Its mission is to pub- ies, will serve as editors. A ceremony not only to keep the Journal going, lish scholarly articles on the causes marking the transfer was held at the but to “take it even further as a of war and conditions of peace, with College on Oct. 26. publication.” a special interest in the intersection “There was a time when peace Naidu, who retired in 2005 from between peace, conflict and interna- was not deemed a credible academic the political studies department of tional development. subject,” said Dean Peachey, former Brandon University, thanked MSC More information about MSC Vice President and Academic for taking over the Journal. He noted the Journal can be found at Dean, at the event. The Naidus, he that when he started out in peace www.peaceresearch.ca B
10 winter 2008 CMU News
Adjustment to Canada. his love of nature, and an New Book Published The book, published inclination to academics by CMU Press, provides that would lead to his life a boy’s-eye view of times as a respected scholar and About Growing Up In and places of great histori- teacher at CMBC, one of cal upheaval. In it Janzen the colleges that merged Turbulent Times recalls that refugee life to form CMU. was not an unmitigated Janzen launched his Waldemar Janzen grew up Russian army. In 1948 they state of hardship—he has book November 14 at in turbulent times. immigrated to Canada. some good childhood CMU. At the launch, the Born to Mennonite Now the former theol- memories, as well as dis- said that the book is an parents in the Ukraine ogy professor and church turbing ones. effort “to try to present in 1932, his father was leader has chronicled his Through the book what I experienced, felt arrested and died in a life in a new book titled readers will encounter and thought at various Stalinist concentration Growing Up in Turbulent his loneliness due to loss stages of my story.” camp. In 1944 he and his Times: Memoirs of Soviet of family, his longing Growing up in Turbulent mother were refugees, Oppression, Refugee Life in for “the holy,” his faith Times can be ordered from fleeing west ahead of the Germany and Immigrant struggles and decisions, the CMU bookstore. B
Remembering David Friesen a school that honours the Christian worldview. I was inspired by his profound heart for the mission of the hen David Friesen, founder and owner of church.” Qualico Developments Canada, died last Gerald Gerbrandt recalls how, shortly after becom- WApril at the age of 95, CMU lost one of its ing President of CMU, Friesen stopped by one morn- key supporters. But his vision lives on. ing to visit. He told Gerbrandt that his dream in the Together with his wife, Katherine, he created a rich 1980s for how CMBC and MBBC might work together legacy in the world of Mennonite education. He was create a liberal arts college was ahead of its time—but instrumental in starting Winnipeg Mennonite Elemen- that CMU now fulfilled that vision. “We continue to tary School, Menno Simons School (Calgary), and was benefit tremendously at CMU from what he made pos- the driving force behind the founding of Menno Simons sible,” Gerbrandt says. College. Previously he had been In 1981, Friesen received an hon- a supporter of Canadian Men- orary doctorate from the University nonite Bible College and Men- of Winnipeg. On that occasion he nonite Brethren Bible College/ was described as “that rare man Concord College. His gifts made who regards success in business pri- possible the start of a Practical marily as an opportunity for service Theology program at CMBC, as to the community, to help others by well as the construction of a res- supporting educational and social idential facility, now called the services. Dr. Friesen cherished his Katherine Friesen Apartments. David and Katherine Friesen. Mennonite heritage and faith, and And, in the 1980s, he dreamed did much to foster and preserve it.” about the creation of a Mennonite university. In his later years, he never lost his interest in educa- “David had a real vision for Mennonite education,” tion. Peachey recalls that whenever they got together says Dean Peachey, former President at MSC. “He had for coffee, Friesen’s first question always was: “How are a passion for how education could be used to preserve things going at Menno Simons College?” and strengthen the Mennonite community.” At his funeral, mourners were invited to donate in his For David Leis, Vice President of Advancement at memory to Menno Simons College. It’s not too late to CMU, Friesen “was an inspiration. He had a vision still honour and contribute to his legacy; use the enve- for a Christian university. He is a compass for us at lope in this issue to send your contribution for MSC, or CMU, and is a powerful reminder of what our mission for any other CMU program, to CMU, 500 Shaftesbury is about—not just to be a quality university, but to be Blvd., Winnipeg, Man. R3P 2N2.
winter 2008 11 CMU News Course Combines Theory, Practice HANDMADE QUILT DELIVERED TO PRIME MINISTER
University students Lobe of the assignment. “I expect to read books and wanted them to not only write papers and exams reflect on how change in classes. They don’t happens, but to be able to usually expect to be test- see how it can happen.” ed on how well they put Through a process of their education into prac- collaborative discern- tice. But that’s what hap- ment, students chose pened last fall in Kenton to work on the issue of Lobe’s Participatory Local climate change, with a Development class. special focus on how it is CMU students Nancy Shore, Jessica Buhler, Ashely Cole, Corinne Klassen and The purpose of the affecting small farmers Nicole Poirier with the quilt delivered to the Prime Minsiter’s office. course is to examine how in Africa. They decided the failure of large scale to hold a morning work- lights and, on one more Saskatoon. development efforts to shop on the topic at CMU memorable square, reduc- Bueckert learned that eradicate poverty in the on December 8, following ing water consumption by “reflection and action developing world and it up with a rally at the not showering for a week. go together,” and that “if Canada have led to a Manitoba Legislature that The quilt, which was you are concerned about search for alternative ways afternoon. 1.8 by one metres, was something, you can do to work for change at the They also decided to delivered personally to the something to change it.” community level. present their concerns Prime Minister’s Ottawa Of the experience, Through the course stu- directly to the Prime Min- office by Lobe on Decem- he says that it’s “easy to dents examined historic ister by creating a quilt ber 5 as a way of encour- assume that it’s not pos- and recent efforts at par- that identified things they aging Canada to take a sible to do anything to ticipatory development, would give up to reduce leadership role in address- change the world, but we and then were asked to try their carbon footprint. ing climate change. can do something.” Orga- their own hands at mobi- Each of the 240 squares The course “was nizing the workshop and lizing people to affect contained handwritten exciting because it was rally “was surprisingly change. declarations by students practical,” says Michael easier to do than one “I wanted them to see and faculty about things Bueckert, a second-year would think,” he adds. that they had the power like driving less, eating International Develop- For Nicole Poirier of to impact change,” says less meat, turning off ment Studies major from Banff, Alberta, the class was a chance to think about “what citizenship means, and how we can bring change.” The second year in International Develop- ment Studies major says she “had never done any- thing like that before. I learned it was very attain- able. If we put our minds to it, we can create an event and we can be heard.” B
12 winter 2008 CMU News
honest sacrifice in order to improve Outtatown someone else’s life.” For Site Leader Dana Honderich Students Learn of New Hamburg, Ont., watching the students grow through experiences From The Poor like these brought to mind what writer William Faulkner described In Canada as the difference between monu- ments and footprints. A monument, COMPASSION CAN BE “SMALL, he wrote, only says “at least I got SIMPLE ACT” this far.” A footprint declares “this is where I was when I moved again.” CMU’s Outtatown adventure and “Outtatown is full of footprint discipleship school is known for put- moments,” says Honderich, herself a ting students in exciting and chal- graduate of the program. “For some, lenging situations in poor countries these steps may have been made as like Guatemala and South Africa. they canoed away from civilization, But before students go to the further into the wilderness then they developing world, they first spend Ben Robson during the urban plunge in Winnipeg. ever thought possible. Or maybe it time learning more about them- was when they sat down to have a selves, God, and about poverty in simple act. It made a difference in cup of coffee with someone of their Canada, through educational and Sharon’s life that day.” own age who calls the streets of service opportunities in Winnipeg For Ben Pavey of Dwight, Ont., Winnipeg home. For others the big- and Vancouver. exposure to different kinds of min- gest footprint may have been pack- For Ben Robson of Winnipeg, one istries during the urban plunge ing a bag and leaving home, friends, of the most moving learning expe- affirmed his interest in doing work family and all things familiar to riences occurred during an urban with poor people in Canada, and embark on a journey with a group plunge in Winnipeg’s inner city. showed him ways he could be of of strangers.” During the plunge, his group of service later in life. As a leader, “I, too, continue to Outtatown students befriended a “I learned a lot in regards to my take steps in my own journey as a homeless woman named Sharon, career,” he says. “It taught me that I disciple of Jesus,” she says. “I look inviting her to join them for lunch can use the creativity God has given back and see the many ways that at a downtown mall. m e .” God has been faithfully present in “After talking a bit we learned David Young of Saskatoon was my journey. My prayer is that we, as that Sharon had lived on the streets moved by a visit to a homeless shel- a community, will continue to take of Winnipeg for over four months ter, where he and other Outtatown steps in this journey that God has for since moving from Calgary,” he says. students were invited by a staff mem- each one of us.” “We learned that she had family and ber to trade some of their own cloth- For Outtatown Director Paul children, and had had a career. But a ing for used clothing at the shelter’s Kroeker, these experiences “may crisis, and a few poor decisions, had clothing ministry. have an impact on those we meet, led her to where she is today.” “At first, we thought she had to be but more often it is we ourselves Despite her circumstances, Sharon joking,” he says. “But when we real- who are changed. It is our prayer was “gracious and grateful,” he says, ized she was serious, each of us gave that students will learn to become adding that the experience reminded up a few of our personal things.” selfless, giving of themselves to God him that “everyone, homeless or not, Young found this to be “a very as they see and respond to the needs has a past and a history . . . talking powerful exercise.” As Christians, he of others. to her opened my eyes a bit more to says, “we say we are willing to serve “We want our students to grow the world that God sees. It made me others, but when we are actually in faith and character, and, as Jesus realize how much God values each asked to give up something personal indicated in the gospel, we want to one of us.” it shows how far we are really willing see them respond to the needs of The experience also taught him to go to show God’s love to others. I others so they can find a larger pur- that “compassion could be a small, was excited to see everyone make an pose and meaning in life.” B
winter 2008 13 CMU News
Brethren Biblical Semi- nary (MBBS). This year 18 CMU students from various denominations and majors met January 11-13 at Camp Nutimik in Manitoba’s Whiteshell Provincial Park to con- sider whether God is calling them into church ministry. For Gerry Ediger, who teaches Biblical and Theo- logical Studies at CMU, and who was one of the speakers at the retreat, the event was an impor- tant way to help stu- dents determine if God is calling them to church Students, staff and speakers at the Ministry Quest retreat. leadership. “The retreat was focused on speaking frankly about Students Learn About being called to ministry,” he says, adding that they studied stories of call from Ministry Opportunities the Bible and heard can- did first-hand accounts of SECOND SUCCESSFUL Christian and Mission- Education, an organiza- being called from present- MINISTRY QUEST ary Alliance church in tion that helps congrega- day leaders in the church. RETREAT Canada expects it will tions and denominations “The centrepiece of need 1,000 more church find ways to nurture young the process was sitting Over the next ten years, workers of all kinds over men and women for min- down to write one’s own over half of Mennonite the next ten years to meet istry and teaching. call story and present it Church Canada’s 349 pas- the needs of new church- “Most major Christian to peers for feedback and tors will reach retirement es, and to replace retiring denominations face a discernment,” he says. age. clergy. Over at the United looming shortage of cler- For Delayne Toews of In the same time frame, Church of Canada, over gy to serve congregations Winnipeg, the retreat was Mennonite Brethren 50 percent that denomi- and parishes as today’s a time to discern “wheth- churches in Canada and nation’s 3,500 clergy will clergy retire,” it goes on er my skills, abilities, and the U.S. will need 500 new turn 65 in the next ten to to say. passions would make me church leaders to replace twelve years. Other church But being a church lead- suitable as a congrega- retiring pastors and keep groups report similar er isn’t for everyone. That’s tional leader.” up with growth. situations. why CMU offers a week- Toews, who will gradu- Meanwhile, Menno- “Leadership—the abil- end retreat called Minis- ate this year with majors nite Church USA says it ity to inspire, motivate, try Quest to help young in math and theological needs 120 new pastors discern and envision in people determine whether studies, appreciated being every year just to keep up a faithful quest to fol- they are being called into able to “hear the stories with the number that are low God’s will—is the church ministry. of other congregational retiring. most critical issue fac- The program, in its leaders, and spend time It’s the same for other ing churches today,” says second year, is co-spon- discovering our own sto- denominations. The the Fund for Theological sored by Mennonite ries of calling.”
14 winter 2008 CMU News
The River East Men- Villalobos, a fourth am presently in a place intimate time of sharing nonite Brethren Church year Biblical and Theo- where I am waiting for and learning.” member came away from logical Studies major who the Lord.” Other speakers at the the retreat with a “new attends the Mount Ver- Jessica Rempel, a psy- retreat were Marilyn understanding of the role non Mennonite Church, chology and biblical stud- Muller, Pastor of Chil- of pastors in churches,” appreciated “the honesty ies major and member of dren’s Ministry at For- and also a “better under- that each person brought the Squamish, B.C. Baptist est Grove Community standing of my own skills and offered” during the Church, found that the Church in Saskatoon; as a communicator.” retreat. retreat “was a great way Tim Geddert, Profes- Mikaela Villalobos of “Through each activ- for me to meet people who sor of New Testament at Quarryville, Pa., cannot ity, exploring of scripture, are interested in a similar MBBS; and John Neufeld, see herself being a pastor foot washing and testi- career, and together come a coach for emerging right now. But, she says, mony, I experienced some to understand more about leaders for the Canadi- “I don’t want to close all God-defining moments,” what that career means an Mennonite Brethren doors.” she says, adding that “I in our lives. It was a very Conference. B Habits Of Defective Sermons Described At Workshop
OVER 160 TAKE IN Preachers should also MINSTRY SEMINAR make sure the sermon has a focus and is easy What are the seven hab- to follow, he said, add- its of highly defective ing that they should also sermons? have a clear goal for the The first bad habit is sermon. “not taking enough time He suggested that with the biblical text,” preachers also need to said Tom Long, Profes- provide “turn signals” sor of Preaching at Can- when making a transi- dler School of Theology tion from one section to in Atlanta, GA at CMU’s another. bi-annual Church in Min- “You don’t need them,” istry Seminars. said Long. “You’re driv- Other bad habits, ing—you know where you he said, are “not pay- are going. But the people ing enough attention to who are following you the needs of listeners;” don’t know.” not having a strategy for The preacher’s task is using illustrations; being complicated by the fact afraid to use theologi- that culture today does cal language for fear that Tom Long: Preacher’s task complicated today. not support religion, Long people won’t understand noted. it; not taking seriously Long was the keynote as Kelowna, B.C. and as “The grand certitudes the collision between the speaker at the January far east as Ottawa. have been called into Gospel and culture; not 14-15 event, titled “The Long went on to say question,” he said. “People giving people “attainable Witness of Preaching.” that a preacher’s task is not don’t automatically give ethics”—practical things Over 160 people attended capture the congregation’s assent to everything they they can do after hearing one or both days, with interest. “At the beginning hear. We have to be seek- the sermon; and not “pro- participants coming from of the sermon you already ing a hearing each time claiming the presence of a variety of denomina- have it,” he said. “The goal we speak.” God in the world.” tions and from as far west is not to lose it.” Continued on page 16
winter 2008 15 CMU News
Continued from page 15 in a Windstorm: Speak- Ethics,” by Allan Rudy- by CMU professor Sheila During a question and ing Gospel in Today’s Froese; “Preaching as Klassen Wiebe. answer time, Long, the Culture” and “The Prom- an Act of Worship,” by The event included a author of several books on ise and Peril of Narrative CMU professor Irma Fast chapel for students with the art of preaching, was Preaching.” Dueck; “Preaching that Ruth Preston Schilk, pas- asked how he judged the In addition to Long, Engages Young Adults and tor of the Lethbridge, success of a sermon. other sessions at the bi- Youth,” by John Neufeld of Alta. Mennonite Church, “The excellence of annual event included the Canadian Conference and Marvin Dyck, pastor preaching is measured an address by CMU pro- of Mennonite Brethren of Crossroads Mennonite by the discipleship of fessor Dan Epp-Tiessen Churches; “Preaching Brethren Church in Win- the congregation in the titled “What Is God the Psalms,” by CMU nipeg, who talked about world,” he said. Doing Through Our professor Pierre Gilbert; what keeps them in pas- Other topics addressed Preaching?” “Preaching from Paul,” by toral ministry. by Long included “Engag- Other workshops at CMU professor emeritus The next Church in ing the Biblical Text in the event were: “Fusing George Shillington; and Ministry Seminars is in Preaching;” “Preaching God’s Grace and Christian “Preaching from Luke,” January, 2010. B
CMU women’s volleyball team: ACCA and CPAC champions. Blazer Women Win Volleyball Championship Unlike the New England Patriots, Jeordie Ker of CMU were named Wiens and Hannah Pratt of Win- who lost the Super Bowl, the CMU to the men’s all-star team. nipeg; Allison Driedger and Ashley women’s volleyball team capped off In November the women won Miller of Saskatoon; Kirsten Hamm their undefeated season by winning the inaugural Association of Chris of Neubergthal, Man.; Heather the annual Central Plains Athletic tian College Athletics (ACCA) Schellenberg of Kitchener, Ont.; Conference (CPAC) championship. volleyball championship in Okla- Kalon Bergen of Beausejour, Man.; The women defeated Brandon’s homa. The team defeated Dallas and Rachel Funk of Jordan, Ont. Assiniboine Community College (Texas) Christian College. The The ACCA promotes athletic February 9 in Winnipeg. Kathleen Tournament MVP was CMU’s competition for Christian colleges Vitt of CMU was named the tour- Dara Friesen. Nikki Mercier of and and universities in the U.S. and Can- nament MVP, while Kalon Bergen Kalon Bergen of CMU were named ada. CPAC is made up of nine col- and Dara Friesen were named to the Tournament All Stars. leges and universities in Manitoba women’s all-star team. Members of the women’s team and Minnesota. B On the men’s side, the Blazers are Dara Friesen, of Waldheim, finished fourth. Josh Krueger and Sask.; Nikki Mercier, Vanessa
16 winter 2008 CMU News Business Program Appoints First Professor Craig Martin of Elmira, work with us and still than businesses, but both looking forward to teach- Ont. has been appointed make a profit,” he says. “A have to use sound busi- ing at CMU because “it’s a the first faculty member strong moral and ethical ness and organizational place where I will be able for CMU’s new Busi- background is an impor- practices to ensure they to more openly talk about ness and Organizational tant part of how we do are meeting their goals— Christian beliefs and how Administration program. business.” whether that’s making they influence the way Martin, who is a Ph.D Martin’s interests and products or serving needy we approach our lives at candidate in agricultural research include the p e op l e .” work.” economics and busi- challenges facing family- In addition to his stud- “Craig’s experience in ness at the University of owned businesses. “I grew ies and work in agricul- business, economics and Guelph, was a Research up in an entrepreneurial tural economics, Martin international trade and Associate and Lecturer in family,” he says of his par- has also done consult- development issues is a the Department of Agri- ents, who owned a hard- ing and market surveys perfect fit for the new cultural Economics and ware store when he was and analysis for business program,” says David Business at that univer- a child. “I have a special and government, along Leis, Vice President for sity from 2001 to 2003. appreciation for small with work on interna- Advancement. “Our goal His dissertation is an family-owned businesses.” tional trade issues. He is is to provide students with economic analysis of the He is also interested in especially interested in a sound education that demand for dairy prod- the dynamics of non-profit how business, finance prepares them to work ucts in Canada. organizations. “The same and government poli- and be leaders in business For Martin, “business principles that govern cies affect international or non-profit groups.” is a part of life,” and so is businesses apply to non- development. The new Business and his Christian faith. “We profit groups,” he says. Martin, a member Organizational Adminis- can operate businesses “Non-profit groups mea- of the Elmira Menno- tration major will begin in and take our beliefs to sure outcomes differently nite Church, says he is fall, this year. B Alumni Invited To Homecoming, 2008 Alumni from CMU, CMBC, “We hope that many alumni will Homecoming Banquet and award- MBBC/Concord, and Outtatown come to remember the good times ing of this year’s Blazer Awards for can embrace the past and anticipate they enjoyed as students, and to get alumni. the future at Homecoming, 2008 at excited about where CMU is going.” “We are actively soliciting nomi- CMU. The event begins with a Home- nations for this year’s alumni People who graduated from or coming Recital on Friday evening, award,” says Braun, adding that attended those schools are invited featuring CMU staff and alumni. nominations can be sent to her via to gather in Winnipeg Sept. 26-27 The recital will be followed by a the CMU web site or by contacting for reunions, concerts, the Blazer Homecoming Reception. the university. Awards, a banquet and other activi- Saturday activities include an For more information about ties. A special invitation is extended alumni volleyball tournament, a Homecoming, visit the Alumni sec- to the classes of 1953, 1958, 1963, walking tour of the campus, lunch tion of the web site, or contact the 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, with former faculty and staff from Alumni Office at 1.877.231.4570 1993, 1998 and 2003 from the four the various schools and class (487.3300 in Winnipeg) or e-mail schools. reunions. The day will end with the [email protected] B “Homecoming is a time to look back and remember the past, but it’s also a time to look ahead to what Want to support CMU? CMU is becoming,” says Eleonore It's easy! Just visit www.cmu.ca/support Braun, who directs Alumni Relations.
winter 2008 17 CMU News Winter Lectures Explore Art, Incarnation By Aaron Epp “We are hardwired to experience things visu- ally. Images form us, they exert a formative pressure on us. I think we ignore that at our peril.” That was one of the messages shared by Erica Grimm-Vance during the January 29-30 Winter Lectures, titled “Reflec- tions of Art, the Incar- nation and the Way of Unknowing.” Grimm-Vance, an artist and the assistant professor and visual arts coordina- tor at Trinity Western Erica Grimm Vance at the CMU Winter Lectures. University in Langley, B.C., rejected the “flesh- “For the artist and the as cutting through inflat- God’s way of forming our denying, spirit-affirming Christian,” she stated, “no ed claims—but it can also souls,” she added. tendency” in the church dualism will do.” be overdone. The final lecture in in her first lecture, titled She began her second “The problem with the series was titled sim- “Made Flesh: Embodi- lecture, titled “Post-Iron- irony is that it diminishes ply “Silence.” Quoting a ment and Materiality.” ic Search for Meaning: much of the human expe- musicologist friend, she She pointed out that since Beauty and Affliction,” by rience and is insufficient suggested that “silence God became flesh through saying that “I think it’s safe in times of suffering and isn’t even possible” in our Jesus Christ, “the material to say we live in an age of in the face of affliction,” world today. Or maybe, realm is infinitely good disbelief.” she stated. she added, people don’t and can, in the words of Prior to terrorist attack Affliction is “the flip want to allow for the pos- Martin Luther, ‘bear the on the World Trade Cen- side of beauty,” she added, sibility of silence since infinite.’” tre on Sept. 11, 2001, noting it’s easier to portray the voice of God can be Drawing on the work ironic disaffection was the suffering in art than it is to frightening and fearful. of Plato, Thomas Aqui- prevailing tone, she sug- portray beauty—without She went on to speak nas, Julia Kristeva and gested. But 9/11 ushered being saccharine, at least. of the silence that occurs others, she explored how in a “post-ironic search She then contrasted the before and after a work art can reveal the body as for meaning,” she went portrayal of beauty in a of art is created, and how a bridge between people on to say, as people were number of recent works being attentive and listen- and God. The body, she no longer content to hide with beauty as it is por- ing are key. She also called said, is inseparable from behind disaffection and trayed in today’s popular drawing “a way of seeing,” a discussion of the spiri- sarcasm. culture. relating the story of one of tual because the world “My work contains no “Beauty in an older her art students who, after is mediated through the irony,” Grimm-Vance vocabulary was con- having to draw a human body—our bodies are at said, showcasing a num- nected to truth and as part of a class assign- once a barrier between ber of her paintings on the goodness,” she said, sug- ment, came to see the us and God, and at the screen in the auditorium. gesting that’s not the case beauty in everyone. “Now same time, the only way Irony, she said, can be a in today’s world. “Both everyone is beautiful,” the through to God. good tool for things such beauty and affliction are student said. B
18 winter 2008 People and events
is the recipient of a Horizons Scholarship from FaithLife Financial. Little is a member of the St. James Lutheran Church in Winnipeg. Robin Bryan, who is majoring in environmen- tal studies and international development at the University of Winnipeg and Menno Simons College, received a Sustainable Development Scholarship from the Manitoba government. He will use the award to further his work of promoting environmen- tal awareness.
Graduates serving in churches. Five recent CMU Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz talks to CMU Student Council President Dylan Tarnowsky after a January 14 student forum at graduates have begun serving the university. “My goal is to give back to society,” said Katz, adding that the future of the city depends on its youth. in churches. Stephanie White is Youth Program Coordinator at Enrolment up. Main Campus was created to honour Carole, a friend at home or at school. the Waterloo, Ont, MB Church; enrolment increased by 24 a young woman whose dreams The event included an all-night Chris Lenshyn is Assistant Pastor full-time students in the second of studies for church ministry hymn sing on January 24. at Sargent Avenue Mennonite semester; full-time numbers were dashed by illness. The Church in Winnipeg; Steve Klas- exceed 400 at the Main Campus bursary will provide financial Over $40,000 was raised at sen is Youth Pastor at South Park for the first time in CMU’s history. aid to female graduate students CMU’s annual fall Dessert Cel- MB Church in Altona, MB.; Paul who are preparing for church ebration Evening, including over Schmidt is Youth Pastor at the Students hold fundraiser. ministry. $11,000 through an auction of Carman, MB. Mennonite Church; Students at Menno Simons desserts donated by local restau- and Corey Hildebrand is Youth College, CMU’s campus at the Rare book workshop. Fifteen rants and individuals. The Octo- Pastor at Emmanuel Mennonite University of Winnipeg, hosted a people learned about old and ber 27 event featured soprano Church in Winkler, MB. Since Rock-Social fundraiser for UNI- rare books and Bibles at a Janu- Sharla Nafziger, a CMU alumnus CMU began in 2000, at least 25 CEF’s “Spread the Net” campaign ary 11-12 Rare Book Workshop from New York City. graduates have gone on to work in September. Over $800 was led by Paul Dyck, Associate as pastors in churches in Canada raised to buy mosquito nets that Professor of English. During Students receive awards. and the U.S. will save the lives of up to 400 the workshop participants Andrea Dick, a second-year African children. examined a range of medieval psychology major from Kandern, The Church Made Strange is and renaissance books from the Germany, received a Millennium the title of a May 24 symposium Food for Fines. In December CMU and University of Mani- Scholarship from the Canadian to mark the retirement of CMBC/ the library allowed borrowers toba collections, including a government. Dick attends the CMU professor Harry Huebner. to pay off fines by donating 1611 edition of the King James Westwood Community Church The symposium, which runs non-perishable food items. Bible. in Winnipeg. Becky Reesor, a from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the The donated food was given to second-year music major from CMU chapel, will be followed by Siloam Mission, a homeless shel- Students pray. Students held Listowel, Ont. received the Abner a banquet at Bethel Mennonite ter in downtown Winnipeg. a Week of Constant Prayer Martin Music Scholarship from Church. The symposium is free; January 20-25 to pray for needs the Menno Singers of Waterloo, cost of the banquet is $25. To Over $25,000 has been around the world, as well as Ont. Reesor is a member of the reserve a place, contact Shirley donated to the Carole Louise for the church and CMU. During Listowel Mennonite Church. Thiessen at [email protected] or Sawatzky Graduate Studies the week students signed up Sarah Little, a second year gen- 487,3300. More information can Bursary at CMU. The bursary for slots to pray alone or with eral arts major from Winnipeg, be found at www.cmu.ca
winter 2008 19 People and events
Amish forgiveness pre- up in conflict? A January 28 cross, and these various views from PROSHIKA, one of Ban- sented. About 500 people came forum at CMU showed they can. need to be used to reach out gladesh’s largest development out November 1 in Winnipeg to The forum featured Tye Gamey, across cultures. organizations. During his time hear Donald Kraybill, author of a former openly gay man who at the College Khan is teaching Amish Grace, speak about how believes that homosexuals can New CMU video. What’s the courses in rural development the Amish were able to forgive change, and Val Warkentin, who CMU advantage? Strong aca- and Asia-Pacific issues. the man who killed five girls in runs a Christian support group demics, community and faith. 2006. “The Amish are uncom- for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and That’s what four students talk John Derksen, Assistant monly prepared to respond with trans-gendered people. Asked about in a new CMU recruitment Professor of Conflict Resolu- graciousness,” he said. The event about the old saying, “love the video, available on the CMU tion Studies, led workshops on was sponsored by CMU’s Institute sinner, but hate the sin,” Gamey website. understanding Islam in Sudbury, for Community Peacebuilding. replied: “I tell people never to Ont. and Winnipeg last spring say that. It doesn’t communicate More information on these and and fall. Social Justice Fair. Where on love and hope. It just passes other stories can be found at earth do you get a job in line judgment on their behaviour.” www.cmu.ca “Blaise Pascal: Mathematician, with your beliefs and values? Warkentin agreed, saying “hate Mystic, Disciple” was the title of That’s a question raised at the is such a strong word. The person Staff & Faculty Notes an essay by Tim Rogalsky in February 6 Social Justice Fair is always more important.” the Journal of the Association of at Menno Simons College. The James Wiebe has resigned Christians in the Mathematical Fair featured speakers, a panel Missiologists gather at CMU. as Assistant Professor of Music Sciences. discussion and displays by non- Christians need to rethink the Therapy. Under Wiebe’s direction, profit groups like MCC, Media- way they present the story of the program was started and has Phoebe Burns has been tion Services, UNICEF and Siloam salvation if the church is to suc- grown to 16 students formally appointed coordinator of the Mission. “It’s inspiring to find out cessfully reach people in other enrolled in the program, and Institute for Community Peace- what all of these organizations cultures. That was the message nine others taking the intro- building’s new Youth Peacebuild- do,” said Jenna Sparling, 23, a Mark Baker presented to par- ductory course. A search for a ing Project. She will be looking fourth-year Conflict Resolution ticipants at the conference of new Music Therapy professor is for ways to address conflict Studies student at MSC. “It gives the Association of Anabaptist underway. between youth from different you something to aspire to.” Missiologists in October. Baker, a racial backgrounds in Winnipeg’s professor at Mennonite Brethren This year’s Esau Distinguished inner city. Forum on same-sex attrac- Biblical Seminary, said that the Visiting Professor at Menno tion. Can Christians talk about Bible contains a variety of ways Simons College is Dr. Iqbal Continued on page 22 homosexuality without ending of viewing Christ’s death on the Khan, a director and researcher
Events@CMU April 19: Spring Concert. All events at CMU unless otherwise indicated. April 20: CMU Graduation. Mar. 14-19: Is he saved? And Other Ques- April 21-27: CMU Singers tour Iowa, tions Christians Shouldn’t Ask. Indiana and Illinois. Speaker: John Stackhouse, April 22-May 4: CMU Chamber Choir tours Regent College. Part of the Pro- Saskatchewan and Alberta. claiming The Claims May 19-23: School of Writing at CMU. of Christ Series. May 24: The Church Made Strange, Mar. 26: Jazz at CMU, 7:30 PM. a symposium to mark the Mar. 28: Campus Visit Day. retirement of Professor Harry April 12-13: Outtatown graduation Huebner. weekend. June 11-14: Believers Church Conference. April 19: Annual Celebration Dinner, June 17: 7th Annual CMU President’s Great Hall. Speaker: Dr. John Golf Classic. Foerster. For more information, visit www.cmu.ca
20 winter 2008 Alumni News
music teacher. She sends “A fond Pat (68-69) and Ron (67-69) much anticipated and adored hello” to all friends and faculty Boese announce the birth of little sister for Devlin (5) and from her years at MBBC, and a a grandson, Benjamin David, Nathan (3). thank you for the “sound musical born March 10, 2007 to Angela Andrea Moses (`97) married training which has continued to (Boese, CMBC ‘98) and Stephen Jeff (`98) and Amanda (Fehr, Dustin Cooper on October 7, aid her career.” Waters. 96-97) Toews welcomed their 2007 in Edmonton. Andrea first child on November 7, 2007, completed her apprenticeship in Melvin Toews (80-82) died Dec. Lynne Martin (80-83) com- a daughter, Isabella Rae; proud 2005 to become a licensed Jour- 7, 2007. pleted an ESL course from the grandparents are Leonard neymen Hairstylist; she works University of Winnipeg’s Division (75-76) & Tina Doell. at the Men’s Room Hair Salon Matthew (92-94) and Betty- of Continuing Education. Lynn in Edmonton. Dustin works as a Anne (Penner, 92-93) Siebert works with Acorn Gardens, a Pharmacist at the University of welcomed their son Josiah, a ministry with war-traumatized Alberta Hospital. brother for Amy (3). Matthew immigrant children. Brian works has recently completed a Mas- as a freelance co-manager and Jennifer (Beatty, 98-00) and ters in Philosophical Theology consultant with First Nations Caralee Good (`02) completed Jordan Haaksma announce program at the University of communities in northern a Bachelor of Science degree the birth of their son Colin, Oxford, England. Manitoba and Ontario. Lynn and in nursing at the University of September 3, 2007, a brother for Brian Brown were married in Toronto in 2006 and is now Luke (2). They attend Riverwood December, 2006 and live near working as a paediatric cardiac Church in Winnipeg. Anola, MB. RN at the Hospital for Sick Chil- dren in Toronto. She attends the Cam Regehr (95-98) recently Cheri Patrick (Berg, `93) and Meeting House in Toronto. Of her completed a law degree from her husband Steven announce time at CMU, she says “out of all the University of Manitoba. Cam Walter Franz (`64) died Nov. the birth of Julia Cathleen on my undergraduate education, I and Christine welcomed their 7, 2007. September 19, 2007. She is a count my CMU degree as most first child, Anna Lorraine, on September 13, 2007. They live in Winnipeg and are part of St. Margaret’s Anglican Church.
Ben Hoeppner (`54) died Dec. 29, 2007.
Henry Dueck (`56) died Nov. 4, 2007.
Frank Peters (`57) died Oct. 10, 2007.
Jan Minty (Wanamaker, `80) is working as a music teacher and vice-principal in Mission, B.C. Jan is married to Bob, who is also a
winter 2008 21 Alumni News
valuable. It was during this time Jan is making use of her CMU Dustin Wiebe (`04) has been Mennonite Church. Melissa is a that I learned who I was, what English degree by working at studying at the Eastman School Customer Service Associate at it meant to be a Christian, and the Fort Garry Public Library in of Music in Rochester, NY. He the Movie Gallery. Proud grand- experienced the absolutely awe- Winnipeg, as a Children’s Refer- has completed a MM in classi- parents are Judy (CMBC 82-83) some grace of God.” ence Assistant. Paul is pursuing cal guitar performance and has and Barry Lesser (CMBC `83). graduate work in English at the recently received a grant from Paul Moffett (`04) and Jan University of Manitoba. They the university to finish his thesis Katherine Krehbiel (`06) mar- Oatway (`03) were married attend St. Margaret’s Anglican in ethnomusicology. He plans ried Peter Goerzen on June 16, August 28, 2004 at Forest Grove church where they also lead the to finish the MA in spring, this 2007 at Tabor Mennonite Church, Community Church, Saskatoon. youth program. year and then begin a doctoral Goessel, KS. Katherine is enjoy- program in fall. ing her work as a Youth Pastor at Grace Hill Mennonite Church in Melissa (03-05) and Terry Whitewater, KS. Lesser (`04) announce the birth of their daughter Natalia Lynn, Are you on Facebook? Join the on November 6, 2007. Terry CMU (CMBC/MBBC/Concord) works as a pastor at Springridge Alumni group!
Continued from page 20 new vice President Academic, Stephanie Stobbe, lecturer in arrives in summer. Conflict Resolution Studies, was in Laos last summer conducting Transitions: Rudy Friesen research on indigenous conflict has been appointed Control- resolution processes. She is cur- ler. Rachel Dueck is filling in rently on leave to pursue her Ph.D as Assistant to the Director of in Peace and Conflict studies. Enrolment Services while Gil- lian Doucet Campbell is on Demons, Lies & Shadows is the maternity leave. Candice Thies- title of a new book by Pierre sen has accepted a position as Gilbert, Associate Professor of Accounting Assistant in the Busi- Biblical Studies and Theology. ness Office. Aaron Epp, a 2007 The book, is described as “an CMU graduate, has been hired excellent treatment of demonic two days a week to work in the warfare.” Communications & Marketing Department. Kirtit Patal has “God’s Suffering: A Challenge been given a two-year term in a for Biblicists” was the title of an tenure track position in Interna- article by Gordon Matties in tional Development Studies. the fall issue of Vision. New faculty: Vonda Plett On sabbatical: Gordon Zerbe, Martens has been appointed Main Campus Academic Dean, to teach psychology; she has and Dean Peachey, Vice a Ph.D in psychology from the President and Academic Dean University of Saskatchewan. She at Menno Simons College, both attends Nutana Park Mennonite began sabbaticals in January. Church. Craig Martin has been Harry Huebner, Professor appointed to teach Business and of Theology and former CMU Organizational Administration. Got News? Academic Dean, and George He has a Ph.D in Agricultural Please drop us a line, fill out the web form at Richert, formerly President of Economics and Business from the MSC, are filling in for Zerbe and University of Guelph. He attends cmu.ca/alumni.html or email [email protected] Peachey until Earl Davey, the the Elmira Mennonite Church.
22 winter 2008 President's Message CMU: A Particular University
through careful thinking and par- supporters of CMU identified four ticipation in the search for truth, commitments that are true to the within a framework and imagination Anabaptist faith and, at the same shaped by the church’s understand- time, which have the potential to ing of God. speak powerfully to our world today. We believe that it makes a differ- They are justice and peace; thinking ence that there is a God who made and doing; community; and gener- the world and all people in it—a ous hospitality and radical dialogue. God who loves all humans despite It’s easy to see how the first three our tendency to go our own way, a flow out of the Anabaptist faith tra- God who sent Jesus Christ into the dition. Our commitment to generous world, a God who remains interest- hospitality and radical dialogue may ed and active in the world, using the be less apparent. And yet, I believe church as an instrument to consis- that it is critical—for the church, for tently work towards reconciliation a university, and for our world. and peace. There is an all-too-frequent ten- dency today to divide into opposing camps: Christian versus Muslim; We believe that it makes right versus left; evangelical versus liberal/mainline; pro-choice ver- a difference that there is a sus pro-life; and so on. Each camp God who made the world devotes its most creative energy to a combination of building a rationale ichard John Neuhaus suggests and all people in it—a for its own position, and of rallying in a recent article that “there God who loves all humans supporters to remain true in the face Ris no such a thing as a uni- despite our tendency to go of opposition. It is like a sporting versity pure and simple . . . . Every event, where defeating the opposi- university is, whether by careful our own way. tion is more important than arriving deliberation or by accident, a uni- at truth. Often, justice and peace, as versity of a particular kind.” In other well as community, are sacrificed in words, there is no such thing as a But just as there is no such thing as the battle. generic university. Every university a generic university generally, there CMU is committed to fostering has the responsibility to think care- also is no such thing as a generic a community that shows gener- fully about what kind of a university Christian university. All Christian ous hospitality by welcoming all it wishes to be. universities are set within a particu- students to participate in this radi- CMU speaks to this directly in lar tradition, framework and set of cal dialogue. In this, Christ is our the first part of its mission state- emphases. Whether consciously or model—he had a clear position, yet ment: “CMU is a Christian univer- subconsciously, they view the Chris- entered into genuine dialogue with sity, rooted in the Anabaptist faith tian faith and the world through a others. Our church and our world tradition.” As a university, CMU is particular set of glasses. The term needs more of this kind of dialogue committed to clearly and carefully “Mennonite” in our name not only and hospitality. thinking about the world in which represents the accountability rela- we live as we pass on to the next tionship we have to a particular generation the wisdom and knowl- denomination, but also the imagi- edge of past generations, and as we nation from within which we are participate in and contribute to the Christian. larger communal search for truth. During a visioning retreat As a Christian university, we do this last October, students, staff and
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