VOL XXXV, NO. 1 - MARCH 2009 Friesens in Altona, was willing to tackle the project, strongly supported by persons like Ted Friesen, J. Winfield Fretz and others. It would take a number of years and now stands, in its three volumes, written by Frank (now deceased), and then helped by Ted Regehr, as a Mennonite monument to that idea. My involvement would be limited later on to reader services and promotion of sales to a limited degree. In the early 1970s things changed quite a bit. The celebration of the centennial (1874-1974) of Mennonite settlement in Historian Manitoba had become the topical issue of the day. MMHS undertook to lead these A PUBLICATION OF THE MENNONITE HERITAGE CENTRE and THE CENTRE FOR MB STUDIES IN CANADA celebrations. A special Steering Committee to direct the planning was set up, and I gave some time to serve as executive secretary with an office in Altona where we were teaching after returning from University of Minnesota graduate studies about that time. Gerhard Ens began a program of Low German Mennonite history lectures on CFAM around 1972, devoted at first to promotion of the museum well established in Steinbach by then, and then moving into promotion of the Mennonite story as a whole. One of the projects where I became An evening playing Mennonite circle games on November 21, 2008 in Winkler brought fun personally quite involved was that of and laughter to the Manitoba Mennonite Historical Society 50th Anniversary Celebration. erecting a cairn in honour of the one-time Photo credit: Conrad Stoesz. land scout and minister, Heinrich Wiebe (1839-1897) of Edenburg. Unveiled also Heritage Hunting: The MMHS in My Life, 1946–2008 in 1972, it stands to this day at Cairn Corner about a mile northeast of Gretna at by Lawrence Klippenstein the junction of PR 243 and Hwy. 30. Part of serving as secretary had to do with here has been quite a bit of discussion the MMHS which would emerge th preparing promotional material and Tabout the 50 anniversary of the eventually twelve years later. getting out the word of centennial Manitoba Mennonite Historical Society I was not present either when a group of celebrating to various communities (MMHS) this past year. Perhaps that men gathered in 1957 and 1958 to throughout Manitoba. helped me to accept a small new formally organize the group. Of the ones One of our larger early public projects assignment to write a short history of present, Ted Friesen of Altona and was staging a centennial reenactment, in MMHS. I seemed to fit the niche of Gerhard Ens of Winnipeg, then the 1973, of the visit of the Mennonite writer, I was told, because I have been youngest participants, remain in our delegates of south Russia to visit the involved with Society affairs throughout midst. I am much aware now of several proposed new settlement area in the 50 years, and indeed a little longer. features of those discussions. One is that southeastern Manitoba in 1873. The trek Actually MMHS did not exist in 1946, establishing a museum rose quickly to began at the Upper Fort Garry gate near but there were antecedents of what was to become a main agenda item for the group. today’s The Forks, and proceeded to the come. A good deal of important ground Some organizing work along this line had old Hudson Bay post (then still standing) work had been done prior to 1958. I did in fact been going on in Steinbach about in St. Anne and other points of what not know either that I would meet a the same time, there led by John C. would become the East Reserve after the leading person in the prep crew in the Reimer and others. Mennonites arrived. person of Paul J. Schaeffer when I entered Museum work would begin seriously in The central celebration year, 1974, was the Mennonite Collegiate Institute the early 1960s. John C. Reimer and J. J. quite busy. A number of significant (Gretna, MB) in 1946 – my final year. We Reimer quickly became leading persons in events, music, drama, art exhibits, used a German-language text book on the project. About the same time MMHS publications, etc., resulted from the work Mennonite history which Mr. Schaeffer found itself connecting with its Ontario of several sub-committees and the MMHS had written (actually four volumes when sister historical society to discuss the board as a whole. We mailed out several he got done – Woher? Wohin? writing of a multi- volumed history of issues of a special newsletter, called 100, Mennoniten! [The Origins and Future of Mennonites in Canada. Frank Epp, then (cont’d on p. 2) the Mennonites]. It was a good theme for working with Canadian Mennonite at Page 2 Page 3 and provided regular reports of what was Recent Books happenings in local communities all over the province. The local papers of several Colin P. Neufeldt, compiler and editor. Genealogy and Family History Unsere Familie: A Pictorial History of communities seemed ready to publish By Alf Redekopp longer and shorter historical items which I the Ratzlaff, Janzen, Pauls, and Schmidt Families (Edmonton, AB: Private submitted during this period. We had publication, 2007) 332 pp. This family Mennonite Reporter, the successor to The Michael Ignatieff and Ignatyevo Colony history book focuses on the author’s Canadian Mennonite, strongly committed relatives from his maternal side, with the also to publishing much related material. stranger agreed to stay for a few days. His recent visitor to the Mennonite name was Nicholas Ignatieff and his permanent primary reference point being his great Soon after I arrived at the Conference of AHeritage Centre asked me if there home was in Toronto. He was the son of the grandparents Erich P. Ratzlaff (1890- Mennonites in Canada (now Mennonite was any connection between the recently last Russian Minister of Education during the 1979) who married Agneta Janzen (1892- reign of Tsar Nicholas II and his grandfather 1976); and, Hermann Pauls (1885-1946) Church Canada) as historian-archivist, in named leader of the Liberal Party of was the Count Nikolay Pavlovich Ignatieff, th who married Wilhelmine Schmidt (1892- 1975, the Archives began to publish Canada, Michael Ignatieff and the who in the second half of the 19 century had 1982); hence the names Ratzlaff, Janzen, Mennonite Historian which would then Russian Mennonite settlement with a become well known as the panslavic Russian Diplomat in Europe. Our visitor knew about his Pauls and Schmidt in the title. These first carry a good deal of MMHS news and similar sounding name. Others may have grandfather’s dealings with a Mennonite group generation people were forced to flee their reporting in the ensuing years. Its own wondered the same. which had bought the count’s estate. He also home in the Mennonite village of newsletter, edited by Royden Loewen of told us an anecdote in connection with his In 1888 the Chortitza Colony bought grandfather’s possessions in Ignatyevo. The Wymyschle, Poland at the end of World Steinbach, began to appear in December, 15,470 hectares of land from the Countess count’s wife was an American lady who had War II. This book consists of the 1984, and now entitled Heritage Posting, Ignatieff in the the Bachmut district of the expressed the wish that the village, in which historical family photos and documents, th the count’s buildings formed a rather has just begun its 25 year of publication. province of Ekaterinoslav, beside the significant complex, should be named New all done in original “colour” or as well MMHS Board 25 Years Ago (1984). Back (l-r): Rhinehart Friesen, John Dyck, Doreen Klas- current day (2006) photos of their The fork-in-the-road of 1979 was for sen, Ed Schellenberg, Abe Dueck. Front: Ted Friesen, Delbert Plett, Ruth Bock. Photo credit: Krivoy Torets River and close to the York. This request was granted, and thus the MMHS a kind of surge experience. That Kahr’kov-Mariupl railway line. Many of once unpretentious settlement in the Ukraine descendants. MHC 50:58. retained the name after the world-renowned A second book printed in the same high move allowed the museum, Mennonite the landless families from the Chortitza That left such fields as publishing, Reserve,” “Heinrich Wiebe, 1829-1897,” American city. quality by Friesens Corporation of Altona Heritage Village (its current name) to settled in this colony, founding seven “…Our visitor…had after the revolution of heritage site preservation, heritage and “Bergthaler Settlement of the West 1917 fled to England with his parents. There he is entitled . The Neufelds & Borns of become an organization independent of villages. In popular speech the villages outreach and awareness through the arts Reserve, 1878-1882” as a contribution to and his four brothers had studied, and after Kubanka: A Pictorial History of Two MMHS which had birthed it some 20 were often simply known by their 1924 the whole family came to Canada. and education, for MMHS to work on – this larger project. A small family book Families, also edited by Colin Neufeldt, years earlier, if the concept given life in numbers. My father, for example, grew up Nicholas at first worked as an engineer at the Kevin Neufeldt and David Wiebe work enough for years to come. I recall on Klippensteins from both Reserves Hydro-Transmission Company of Ontario, but 1958 can be part of the counting. in “number two”, which was actually Neufeldt (Lethbridge, AB: Private joining Adolf Ens in checking a (though I’m not into genealogy all that at the time of his visit in Reesor he was already Independent meant obtaining its own called Romanowka. The other villages on the staff of Upper Canada College, Toronto, Publication, 2006) 358 pp. This book is translation of Gerhard Wiebe’s Ursachen much!) came out of all this hubbub as where he taught history… One of his brothers board and its own charter, and for MMHS were called Yekaterinovka, Leonidovka, about the history and descendants of the und Geschichte der Auswanderung der well. (George Ignatieff) has been working in the Neufeld family beginning with Johann meant a redefinition of its work without New York, Nikolayevka, Ignatyevka and foreign office in Canada, and off and on I find Mennoniten von Russland nach Amerika, When in 2008 we gathered for three Neufeld (1859-1896) who was married to its kingpin agenda item, a Mennonite Alexeyvka. Oscar H. Hamm of Saskatoon his name mentioned in the papers.” done by the late Helen Janzen, and commemorative “moments” in Winnipeg Aganeta Reimer (1857-1941), and the museum. published a history of this colony in Michael Ignatieff (b. 1947), leader of published in 1981, soon after the (academic papers), Steinbach (choir Born family beginning with Isaak Born German in 1980 and in English in 1984, the Liberal Party of Canada is the son of “forking” of MMHS. music) and Winkler (circle games) to note (1866-1946) who was married to Anna entitled, Memoirs of Ignatyevo in the George Ignatieff (1913-1989), who was a Mennonite Historian is published by the I had my turn with many others of the 50th anniversary of MMHS, we found Regier (1863-1924). The editors of the Light of Historical Change. In it he Russian-Canadian diplomat. His great- book are grandsons of Johann Neufeld Mennonite Heritage Centre of Mennonite presiding over board work for a few new impetus in the work of our boards publishes a little report he received from grandmother, Catherine Leonidovna (1889-1970) who married Kornelia Born Church Canada and the Centre for Mennonite years, and helped to develop the Historic and committees, now presided over by Brethren Studies of the Canadian Conference John Enns, Reesor, Ontario after he Galitzine (widow of Nicolai Paul Ignatieff (1892-1974) in 1917, and left their home Sites and Monuments Committee Conrad Stoesz, gave our newsletter a of Mennonite Brethren Churches. published the German edition. Enns (1832-1886) was the countess who had in Kubanka, Orenburg, USSR in 1926 to somewhat beyond its early phase. In 1999 boost, and took a deep breath in casting the American interest and was the reason start a new life in Canada. Contact: Colin Editors: Alf Redekopp (MHC) th wrote: and 2000, a series of 125 anniversary our profile for further work ahead. Better “…In the early thirties a tall young man arrived for the naming of the village of Neu- Neufeldt, 11620-32A Avenue, Edmonton, Doug Heidebrecht (CMBS) celebrations of Manitoba Mennonites linkage with Mennonite Heritage Village here in Reesor by way of the local commuter York, and I wonder if she wasn’t also the AB T6J 3G8 could pick up and carry further the projects enriched these initiatives and train that had stopped briefly. His travel bag Associate Editor: Conrad Stoesz held only the barest necessities for his personal reason for the naming of village number 3 Queries centennial celebrations of 1974. The July, brought wider awareness of meaningful (CMBS/MHC) use. He became acquainted with my father, Leonidovka, after her father, Prince Harder - I am looking for an immigration 2000, event held at Fort Dufferin north of heritage work for the general public. who invited him to our home, where the Leonid Galitzine. A.R. record (ship and date of entry) for Peter All correspondence and manuscripts should be Emerson highlighted the West Reserve There is much more one could say. Many Harder (1871-1946), his wife Katharina sent to the editorial offices at: region, but Winnipeg and Steinbach other participants in these programs ought MCC Manitoba and MHC Collaborate in Research Epp (1876-1953) and family of Burwalde, 600 Shaftesbury Blvd. programs carried forward 1974 themes to be named. This is not yet a “short Choritiza colony who came to Canada Winnipeg, MB R3P 0M4 by Conrad Stoesz significantly. The creation of the Post history of MMHS,” but it sketches in part around 1905. Harder taught in Blumen- P: 204-888-6781 Tina Fehr-Kehler of MCC helps the Road Memorial Trail, and leading tours a profile of what a person might get into if thal, SK and had 3 sons: Jacob (1899- E: [email protected] th he Centre is collaborating with the new arrivals obtain the proper paper work. 1978), Peter (1904-), and Martin (1906-). W: www.mennonitechurch.ca/programs/archives along it, belonged to my 125 recalls of one found time and energy to let MMHS TMCC office in Winkler to assist At times she calls the Centre for Contact Elvira Heppner at [email protected]. or the year 2000. penetrate one’s life at some level. Many Mennonites who have recently arrived assistance. Using various resources, the 1310 Taylor Avenue, The publication of four volumes in the others have a similar story to tell. I have from Latin and South America. MHC staff can usually find information to Winnipeg, MB R3M 3Z6 West Reserve Historical Series, guided in found it gratifying , educational and For newcomers, crossing boarders can supplement the evidence she receives P: 204-669-6575 large measure through all its stages by indeed, inspiring. Heritage is, after all a E: [email protected] be difficult. But a reversal in the Canadian from the newcomers. Genealogical Adolf Ens of Winnipeg, brought the God –given layer of living, and discerning citizenship regulations could benefit research is making a real difference in the W: www.mbconf.ca/mbstudies region into further prominence among its power and impact is never time Subscription rates: $13.00 per year, $24.00 for some. As of spring 2009, those who can lives of these newcomers. It is more than local history endeavours of this period. I wasted. My word of warmest thanks to two years, $34.00 for three years. Individual prove their parents were born in Canada a pastime of collecting names and dates. subscriptions may be ordered from these offered four or five essays on related those with whom I could be connected are entitled to a Canadian passport, Increasing the knowledge of their family addresses. themes such as “Altbergthal, 1879-2000,” and experience the hunt. allowing much freer movement across history has become essential in the ISSB 07008066 “Ältester Johann Funk 1836-1917,” Lawrence Klippenstein, former MHC international boarders, and for some a step repatriation process. It is very gratifying Tina Fehr-Kehler with Maria Bergen and “Mennonite Education in the West director, lives in Steinbach, Manitoba. towards Canadian citizenship. to help in this way. daughter Fernanda. Photo: Bud Kehler . Page 3 Recent Books Colin P. Neufeldt, compiler and editor. Genealogy and Family History Unsere Familie: A Pictorial History of By Alf Redekopp the Ratzlaff, Janzen, Pauls, and Schmidt Families (Edmonton, AB: Private publication, 2007) 332 pp. This family Michael Ignatieff and Ignatyevo Colony history book focuses on the author’s relatives from his maternal side, with the stranger agreed to stay for a few days. His recent visitor to the Mennonite name was Nicholas Ignatieff and his permanent primary reference point being his great AHeritage Centre asked me if there home was in Toronto. He was the son of the grandparents Erich P. Ratzlaff (1890- was any connection between the recently last Russian Minister of Education during the 1979) who married Agneta Janzen (1892- reign of Tsar Nicholas II and his grandfather 1976); and, Hermann Pauls (1885-1946) named leader of the Liberal Party of was the Count Nikolay Pavlovich Ignatieff, th who married Wilhelmine Schmidt (1892- Canada, Michael Ignatieff and the who in the second half of the 19 century had 1982); hence the names Ratzlaff, Janzen, Russian Mennonite settlement with a become well known as the panslavic Russian Diplomat in Europe. Our visitor knew about his Pauls and Schmidt in the title. These first similar sounding name. Others may have grandfather’s dealings with a Mennonite group generation people were forced to flee their wondered the same. which had bought the count’s estate. He also told us an anecdote in connection with his home in the Mennonite village of In 1888 the Chortitza Colony bought grandfather’s possessions in Ignatyevo. The Wymyschle, Poland at the end of World 15,470 hectares of land from the Countess count’s wife was an American lady who had War II. This book consists of the Ignatieff in the the Bachmut district of the expressed the wish that the village, in which historical family photos and documents, the count’s buildings formed a rather province of Ekaterinoslav, beside the significant complex, should be named New all done in original “colour” or as well Krivoy Torets River and close to the York. This request was granted, and thus the current day (2006) photos of their Kahr’kov-Mariupl railway line. Many of once unpretentious settlement in the Ukraine descendants. retained the name after the world-renowned A second book printed in the same high the landless families from the Chortitza American city. quality by Friesens Corporation of Altona settled in this colony, founding seven “…Our visitor…had after the revolution of 1917 fled to England with his parents. There he is entitled . The Neufelds & Borns of villages. In popular speech the villages and his four brothers had studied, and after Kubanka: A Pictorial History of Two were often simply known by their 1924 the whole family came to Canada. Families, also edited by Colin Neufeldt, Nicholas at first worked as an engineer at the numbers. My father, for example, grew up Hydro-Transmission Company of Ontario, but Kevin Neufeldt and David Wiebe in “number two”, which was actually at the time of his visit in Reesor he was already Neufeldt (Lethbridge, AB: Private called Romanowka. The other villages on the staff of Upper Canada College, Toronto, Publication, 2006) 358 pp. This book is were called Yekaterinovka, Leonidovka, where he taught history… One of his brothers about the history and descendants of the (George Ignatieff) has been working in the Neufeld family beginning with Johann New York, Nikolayevka, Ignatyevka and foreign office in Canada, and off and on I find his name mentioned in the papers.” Neufeld (1859-1896) who was married to Alexeyvka. Oscar H. Hamm of Saskatoon Aganeta Reimer (1857-1941), and the published a history of this colony in Michael Ignatieff (b. 1947), leader of the Liberal Party of Canada is the son of Born family beginning with Isaak Born German in 1980 and in English in 1984, (1866-1946) who was married to Anna George Ignatieff (1913-1989), who was a entitled, Memoirs of Ignatyevo in the Regier (1863-1924). The editors of the Light of Historical Change. In it he Russian-Canadian diplomat. His great- book are grandsons of Johann Neufeld publishes a little report he received from grandmother, Catherine Leonidovna (1889-1970) who married Kornelia Born John Enns, Reesor, Ontario after he Galitzine (widow of Nicolai Paul Ignatieff (1892-1974) in 1917, and left their home published the German edition. Enns (1832-1886) was the countess who had in Kubanka, Orenburg, USSR in 1926 to wrote: the American interest and was the reason start a new life in Canada. Contact: Colin “…In the early thirties a tall young man arrived for the naming of the village of Neu- Neufeldt, 11620-32A Avenue, Edmonton, here in Reesor by way of the local commuter York, and I wonder if she wasn’t also the AB T6J 3G8 train that had stopped briefly. His travel bag held only the barest necessities for his personal reason for the naming of village number 3 Queries use. He became acquainted with my father, Leonidovka, after her father, Prince Harder - I am looking for an immigration who invited him to our home, where the Leonid Galitzine. A.R. record (ship and date of entry) for Peter Harder (1871-1946), his wife Katharina Epp (1876-1953) and family of Burwalde, MCC Manitoba and MHC Collaborate in Research Choritiza colony who came to Canada by Conrad Stoesz around 1905. Harder taught in Blumen- Tina Fehr-Kehler of MCC helps the thal, SK and had 3 sons: Jacob (1899- he Centre is collaborating with the new arrivals obtain the proper paper work. 1978), Peter (1904-), and Martin (1906-). TMCC office in Winkler to assist At times she calls the Centre for Contact Elvira Heppner at [email protected]. Mennonites who have recently arrived assistance. Using various resources, the from Latin and South America. MHC staff can usually find information to For newcomers, crossing boarders can supplement the evidence she receives be difficult. But a reversal in the Canadian from the newcomers. Genealogical citizenship regulations could benefit research is making a real difference in the some. As of spring 2009, those who can lives of these newcomers. It is more than prove their parents were born in Canada a pastime of collecting names and dates. are entitled to a Canadian passport, Increasing the knowledge of their family allowing much freer movement across history has become essential in the international boarders, and for some a step repatriation process. It is very gratifying Tina Fehr-Kehler with Maria Bergen and towards Canadian citizenship. to help in this way. daughter Fernanda. Photo: Bud Kehler . Page 4 Page 5 In Memoriam: his own experiences in the Gulag camps, compared with the works of Solzhenitsyn In Memoriam: former archivist in the Berlin and served as its chairman until 2006. For and did not want Solzhenitsyn’s and other Russian writers on the subject. Gerhard Hildebrandt (1919-2007) Staatsbibliothek. Dr. Crous recognized most of this time Julia Hildebrandt served Georg Hildebrandt (1911-2008) descriptions to colour and influence his Unlike their accounts, however, Gerhard’s academic and leadership talents as recording secretary of the society. by Peter Letkemann by Peter Letkemann memories. Shortly after arriving at the Hildebrandt’s memoir is significant for and invited him to enrol in the newly She and Gerhard also worked together Georg Hildebrandt, Dr. Gerhard Hilde- Refugee Processing Centre in Friedland, his revelations of the “special” treatment founded Slavic Department of Göttingen closely to publish a moving collection of author of the best- brandt died in Gött- West Germany, Hildebrandt purchased a accorded to Germans in the Soviet Union. University. In addition to studies in Mennonite letters from the Gulag, entitled selling book Wieso ingen, Germany on notebook and wrote on the cover: “What I From the 1930s to at least the 1980s, Russian language, culture and history, he Aber wo sollen wir hin (Frankenthal, lebst du noch? (Why 30 April 2007, after may not forget.” For the next 15 years he Soviet Germans were labelled not only as also took courses in theology. Hildebrandt 1998) and a collection of essays entitled are you still alive?) a lengthy battle with filled the notebook with his memories and “enemies of the people,” but derisively as completed his doctoral work in the spring 200 Jahre Mennoniten in Russland died in Heidelberg, cancer. Five weeks toiled at organizing them into a “fascists” – and treated accordingly! Yet of 1956 with a dissertation on the (Weierhof, 2000) – papers presented a Germany on 23 earlier, on 23 March th manuscript. Hildebrandt did not write with prominent 17 century Russian Orthodox decade earlier at a Mennonite bi- December 2008 at 2007, he had cele- th reformer Avvakum. Subsequently, centennial symposium in Bechterdissen in Family and friends gave him little Solzhenitsyn’s passionate anger. We can brated his 88 birth- the age of 97. Gerhard Hildebrandt was appointed as September 1989. It was here in encouragement. His wife, for example, feel his pain, yet there is no sense of day. A memorial Hildebrandt was born as Isaak Isaak Lecturer for Russian language studies in Bechterdissen that I met Gerhard and said: “you are not sleeping well – it will revenge. Many reviewers have service was held at the Baptist Church in Hildebrandt on 19 July 1911 in the the Slavic Studies department at Julia Hildebrandt for the first time and ruin your health to dwell on these horrible commented on the author’s positive Göttingen on Monday, 14 May 2007. Mennonite village of Kondratyevka Göttingen University – one of the oldest developed a life-long friendship. memories – who will want to read these attitude – Hildebrandt was not an Dr. Hildebrandt was well-known (Borissovo Settlement) in the Don Region and most illustrious universities in In 2006, just 6 months before his death, terrible experiences? Who will believe embittered, grumpy old man; he was throughout Germany as a distinguished of southern Russia/Ukraine. His father Germany – and served in this department he completed an important collection of you?” Among those who did encourage open, good-natured, and lived his life to teacher, churchman and historian. For Isaak was a successful farmer and deacon until his retirement in the late 1980s. source documents in German translation - him was Dr. George K. Epp of Winnipeg. the fullest. He himself attributed his three decades he taught Russian language, in the local Mennonite church. That same spring he married Julia van Gerhard Hildebrandt, Die Mennoniten in It was not an easy book to write and is psychological survival in large measure to history and culture in the Department of When I first met Mr. Hildebrandt in Delden, daughter of a prominent German der Ukraine und im Gebiet Orenburg. not an easy book to read: drawing on his his happy childhood years in the Slavic Studies at the University of 2001, I also asked myself, “Why are you Mennonite industrialist from Gronau, Dokumente aus Archiven in Kiev und remarkable memory Hildebrandt related Mennonite community of Kondratyevka. Göttingen. He published a Russian- still alive?” How had this gentle, soft- whom he had met at a Mennonite youth Orenburg (Göttingen: Göttinger events with amazing detail, clarity, In 1995 Georg Hildebrandt published a language textbook and numerous articles spoken 90-year old man, with the firm gathering in 1947. Arbeitskreis, 2006). Together with Dr. honesty and objectivity – he “pulls no second book entitled Erst jetzt lebe ich (It dealing with various aspects of Russian handshake of a person half his age, In 1951 Gerhard was ordained as a lay Alfred Eisfeld (Göttingen), Gerhard was punches.” He had to write his painful is only now that I truly live). In it, he and Soviet history. survived 25 years of exile and minister in the Göttingen congregation. also working at another collection of experiences from his soul; confronting documented the response which his Dr. Hildebrandt was born in the village imprisonment during Stalin’s reign of Five years later, when Dr. Crous retired, source documents in German translation them on paper was a form of therapy. Yet memoir had engendered: he included a of Hierschau (Molochna Settlement) on terror in the Soviet Union? The answer Hildebrandt was elected to take his place dealing with Mennonite political he wrote the book not only for himself, sample of the more than two dozen 23 March 1919, the son of David can be found in his personal memoir as Ältester, a position which he held until involvement in Ukraine in the period but also for all those who perished in the reviews – including a favourable review Hildebrandt and grandson of Ältester Wieso lebst du noch? published in 2002. In 1976 Gerhard was elected to the following the February Revolution of camps and were never allowed to tell their in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Gerhard Plett (see Helmut Huebert, Stuttgart in a hard cover edition in 1990 to board of the “Vereinigung der 1917. Dr. Eisfeld has continued working story. However, he does not “dwell” only and excerpts from the hundreds of letters Hierschau). In 1930 the Hildebrandt critical acclaim in the German press. The Mennoniten in Deutschland” and served on the project, which is now scheduled for on the horrible situations encountered in he received from individuals throughout family was “dekulakized” and exiled to book was later published by Ullstein as its chairman for a decade from 1979 publication later this year in Göttingen. the camps, in fact, he told me that he left Germany and North America. the northern forests, where Gerhard and Verlag in a paperback edition in 1993. An onwards. As chairman he worked closely During the last years of his life, Gerhard out many of the worst stories – they were In February 2003 Hildebrandt was his father worked in a forestry labour English translation appeared in Fargo, with A. Schnebele of the South-German was also busy writing a history of so terrible “that people would not have awarded “die Verdienstmedaille des camp cutting timber that the Soviet N.D. in 2002 (see my review in Preser- “Verband” to effect a unification of these Mennonites in the Soviet Union (1927- believed them.” He also writes of the Verdienstordens der Bundesrepublik government exported to the West in order vings No. 21, December 2002, 138-139). two Mennonite conferences into the 1941). He was the last surviving “humanity” he encountered in the prisons Deutschlands” - the German Medal of to obtain “hard currency.” The map below, which Hildebrandt “Arbeitsgemeinschaft Mennonitischer Mennonite historian who could actually and labour camps, which itself recognized Achievement in recognition of his efforts With the assistance of local camp hung in the living room of his apartment, Gemeinden” in the 1980s. write about this tragic era from personal no rule of humanity. Hildebrandt to build bridges of understanding between officials, Gerhard was able to enrol in a displays the 20 prisons and labour camps As chairman of the conference, Gerhard experience. Unfortunately, his important survived not only physically but also Russians and Germans. The medal was correspondence course and obtain his in which he was interred during the 25- Hildebrandt met with Pope John Paul II, manuscript remained unfinished at his spiritually and emotionally, with his officially presented to Georg Hildebrandt teacher certification. In 1940 he was hired year period from 1930 to 1955. on Monday, 17 November 1980 in Mainz death. humanity intact. in July 2003, on the occasion of his 92nd as a German teacher in a secondary school After his final release in 1955 and a – the occasion was a meeting of Hildebrandt’s account can easily be birthday. in the Suzdal Region, north-east of Peter Letkemann lives in Winnipeg. successful operation in Moscow to representatives: Mitglieds- und Moscow. During the summer holidays in remove most of his left lung (due to Gastkirchen der Gebetsgemeinschaft 1941 he was allowed to visit his parents, tuberculosis contracted in prison), Christlicher Kirchen in der who had survived the labour camps and Hildebrandt was able to rejoin his family Bundesrepublik Deutschland settled in the village of Einlage (Chortitza living in exile in the Urals. In 1961 he and und Berlin (West). Settlement). When German forces his wife, like so many other Germans, In the years following his occupied the region in August 1941, moved to Alma-Ata in Kazakhstan, where retirement in the late 1980s, Gerhard was conscripted into the German he worked as a technical draftsman until Gerhard Hildebrandt turned his Wehrmacht as an interpreter and spent the his retirement in 1971. It then took scholarly attention to next 4 years advancing and then retreating another three difficult years to obtain an Mennonite history, specifically with the German army. At the end of the exit visa and permission to emigrate to the history of his own Russian war, Gerhard was taken prisoner by the West Germany. Mennonite people. In April British, but released in June 1945. For the On 16 November 1974 he and his wife 1991 he organized the “Verein next two years he taught at a small finally landed in Frankfurt. Hildebrandt’s zur Erforschung und Pflege des country school in the southern Germany first purchase in Germany was a copy of Kulturerbes des russland- province of Württemberg. Volume 2 of Solzhenitsyn’s The Gulag deutschen Mennonitentums” At a Mennonite youth gathering in Archipelago. After reading a few pages, (Society for the Study and 1946, Gerhard met Dr. Ernst Crous, pastor Gerhard Hildebrandt met with Pope John Paul II, on Hildebrandt put the book aside; he had Preservation of the Russian Map showing 20 prison labour camps where Hildebrandt was interred from 1930-1955. of the Göttingen Mennonite Church and Monday, 17 November 1980 in Mainz. already decided to write a book describing Mennonite Cultural Heritage) Photos: Courtesy of Peter Letkemann. Page 5 In Memoriam: former archivist in the Berlin and served as its chairman until 2006. For Gerhard Hildebrandt (1919-2007) Staatsbibliothek. Dr. Crous recognized most of this time Julia Hildebrandt served Gerhard’s academic and leadership talents as recording secretary of the society. by Peter Letkemann and invited him to enrol in the newly She and Gerhard also worked together Dr. Gerhard Hilde- founded Slavic Department of Göttingen closely to publish a moving collection of brandt died in Gött- University. In addition to studies in Mennonite letters from the Gulag, entitled ingen, Germany on Russian language, culture and history, he Aber wo sollen wir hin (Frankenthal, 30 April 2007, after also took courses in theology. Hildebrandt 1998) and a collection of essays entitled a lengthy battle with completed his doctoral work in the spring 200 Jahre Mennoniten in Russland cancer. Five weeks of 1956 with a dissertation on the (Weierhof, 2000) – papers presented a earlier, on 23 March prominent 17th century Russian Orthodox decade earlier at a Mennonite bi- 2007, he had cele- th reformer Avvakum. Subsequently, centennial symposium in Bechterdissen in brated his 88 birth- Gerhard Hildebrandt was appointed as September 1989. It was here in day. A memorial Lecturer for Russian language studies in Bechterdissen that I met Gerhard and service was held at the Baptist Church in the Slavic Studies department at Julia Hildebrandt for the first time and Göttingen on Monday, 14 May 2007. Göttingen University – one of the oldest developed a life-long friendship. Dr. Hildebrandt was well-known and most illustrious universities in In 2006, just 6 months before his death, throughout Germany as a distinguished Germany – and served in this department he completed an important collection of teacher, churchman and historian. For until his retirement in the late 1980s. source documents in German translation - three decades he taught Russian language, That same spring he married Julia van Gerhard Hildebrandt, Die Mennoniten in history and culture in the Department of Delden, daughter of a prominent German der Ukraine und im Gebiet Orenburg. Slavic Studies at the University of Mennonite industrialist from Gronau, Dokumente aus Archiven in Kiev und Göttingen. He published a Russian- whom he had met at a Mennonite youth Orenburg (Göttingen: Göttinger language textbook and numerous articles gathering in 1947. Arbeitskreis, 2006). Together with Dr. dealing with various aspects of Russian In 1951 Gerhard was ordained as a lay Alfred Eisfeld (Göttingen), Gerhard was and Soviet history. minister in the Göttingen congregation. also working at another collection of Dr. Hildebrandt was born in the village Five years later, when Dr. Crous retired, source documents in German translation of Hierschau (Molochna Settlement) on Hildebrandt was elected to take his place dealing with Mennonite political 23 March 1919, the son of David as Ältester, a position which he held until involvement in Ukraine in the period Hildebrandt and grandson of Ältester 2002. In 1976 Gerhard was elected to the following the February Revolution of Gerhard Plett (see Helmut Huebert, board of the “Vereinigung der 1917. Dr. Eisfeld has continued working Hierschau). In 1930 the Hildebrandt Mennoniten in Deutschland” and served on the project, which is now scheduled for family was “dekulakized” and exiled to as its chairman for a decade from 1979 publication later this year in Göttingen. the northern forests, where Gerhard and onwards. As chairman he worked closely During the last years of his life, Gerhard his father worked in a forestry labour with A. Schnebele of the South-German was also busy writing a history of camp cutting timber that the Soviet “Verband” to effect a unification of these Mennonites in the Soviet Union (1927- government exported to the West in order two Mennonite conferences into the 1941). He was the last surviving to obtain “hard currency.” “Arbeitsgemeinschaft Mennonitischer Mennonite historian who could actually With the assistance of local camp Gemeinden” in the 1980s. write about this tragic era from personal officials, Gerhard was able to enrol in a As chairman of the conference, Gerhard experience. Unfortunately, his important correspondence course and obtain his Hildebrandt met with Pope John Paul II, manuscript remained unfinished at his teacher certification. In 1940 he was hired on Monday, 17 November 1980 in Mainz death. as a German teacher in a secondary school – the occasion was a meeting of in the Suzdal Region, north-east of Peter Letkemann lives in Winnipeg. representatives: Mitglieds- und Moscow. During the summer holidays in Gastkirchen der Gebetsgemeinschaft 1941 he was allowed to visit his parents, Christlicher Kirchen in der who had survived the labour camps and Bundesrepublik Deutschland settled in the village of Einlage (Chortitza und Berlin (West). Settlement). When German forces In the years following his occupied the region in August 1941, retirement in the late 1980s, Gerhard was conscripted into the German Gerhard Hildebrandt turned his Wehrmacht as an interpreter and spent the scholarly attention to next 4 years advancing and then retreating Mennonite history, specifically with the German army. At the end of the the history of his own Russian war, Gerhard was taken prisoner by the Mennonite people. In April British, but released in June 1945. For the 1991 he organized the “Verein next two years he taught at a small zur Erforschung und Pflege des country school in the southern Germany Kulturerbes des russland- province of Württemberg. deutschen Mennonitentums” At a Mennonite youth gathering in (Society for the Study and 1946, Gerhard met Dr. Ernst Crous, pastor Gerhard Hildebrandt met with Pope John Paul II, on Preservation of the Russian of the Göttingen Mennonite Church and Monday, 17 November 1980 in Mainz. Mennonite Cultural Heritage) Photos: Courtesy of Peter Letkemann. Page 6 The International Baptist Theological Seminary in Prague Page 7 performed by Christina Redekopp, a A Saskatchewan Visit By Doug Heidebrecht graduate of University of Winnipeg. This maintaining the seminary were heightened had first heard of the International project was begun in 2007 when by Conrad Stoesz when the Foreign Mission Board voted to Baptist Theological Seminary (IBTS) in approximately 75,000 were scanned. At n March 6-7, 2009 I had the pleasure I discontinue their promised ongoing Prague, Czech Republic from David the end of Phase 2 just over 150,000 will of being a guest speaker at the financial support of the seminary in O Giesbrecht, former librarian at Columbia 2 have been scanned. We acknowledge the Saskatchewan Mennonite Historical Soc- 1991. With the collapse of communism Bible College and now Director of the financial support of the Government of iety’s (MHSS) 2-day event featuring the during the early 1990s, dozens of national history of the Bergthaler Mennonite Archives for the Mennonite Historical seminaries emerged all across central and Canada through Library and Archives throughout Europe. church in Saskatchewan. Society of B.C. David and his wife Betty eastern Europe, which raised questions Canada, in assisting to get the project this IBTS has established several institutes Mennonite Church Friday evening there were 300 people in had volunteered in the library at IBTS about the viability of IBTS. far. When the entire collection has been that engage in ongoing research projects. Manitoba Records Project attendance at Valley Christian Academy, during the fall of 2003. I was exploring The European Baptist Federation digitized, it will provide Mennonite near Osler, to hear tributes to former The Institute of Baptist and Anabaptist various doctoral programs and David’s decided to relocate the seminary to the ince August 2008, Tamara Dyck has archives and genealogists specifically a Aeltester Abram Buhler and Altester John Studies, for example, is currently working enthusiastic report of their time in Prague Czech Republic, which facilitated Sbeen working part-time on a project to wealth of information which previously D. Reddekopp. on a project to make Balthasar Hub- archive and catalogue all Mennonite caught my interest. I applied to begin attendance by students from eastern had very limited availability. A.R. Saturday started off with the AGM after maier’s writings available for online Church Manitoba (MCM) past records. Ph.D. studies at IBTS in the fall of 2004 Europe and offered the possibility of which I brought greetings from Menno- research. The IBTS Library holds photo- Employed by MCM, but supervised by nite Church Canada, Canadian Confer- and encountered a vibrant Anabaptist much lower operating costs. Jenerálka Church Bulletins, Minutes, graphic reproductions of the original the Centre, she has prepared a fonds and ence of Mennonite Brethren Churches and community in the heart of Europe. Castle, an estate built in 1828 and located and Annual Reports prints of all of Hubmaier’s works. The series level description with accompany- the Manitoba Mennonite Historical This year the IBST is celebrating its in a village with the same name (which in ing inventory lists of over 100 pages. th Institute of Baptist and Anabaptist Studies uing the early part of each year, the Society to the 150 people gathered. 60 anniversary. In 1948, the Baptist Czech means “woman general”) on the This project was largely made possible has also been involved in the restoration DCentre receives collections from a My paper focused on the Sommerfeld World Alliance held a consultation in east side of the Šárka Valley just outside through the overall initiative of Edgar number of congregations that are part of Mennonite church and its connections to of a seventeenth-century Anabaptist London to discuss mission work in post- of the city of Prague, was purchased in Rempel, MCM Executive Director and Mennonite Church Canada. These packets the Saskatchewan Bergthaler church. I 1 House in the village of Sobotište in war Europe. At this meeting, the 1994. Renovation of the derelict buildings MCM’s Administrative Assistant, Bev usually include the weekly bulletins argued that the Sommerfelder/Bergthaler Western Slovakia. Sawatzky, who prepared many of the files Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Board took place from 1994-1997 with the (order of worship and announcements), split in Manitoba in 1893 had as much to Each year IBTS publishes the Journal for transfer to the Centre. announced their intention to start a assistance of over a thousand volunteers. annual report book, and minutes of the do with guarding against American reviv- of European Baptist Studies (JEBS) as The MCM collection consists of over council and congregation. There could alist influences as educational concerns. I seminary in Switzerland, a neutral country In April 1997 IBTS officially opened in well several research publications. Recent 15 metres of textual records, 570 audio also be other publications such as also traced the history of the Sommerfeld not involved in war reconstruction. An its new location. volumes include: The Life and Ministry of reels, 1147 audio cassettes, 2 video newsletters, directories and special church and highlighted connections to the estate was purchased in the village of The vision for IBTS also changed at cassettes and several hundred Balthasar Hubmaier (ca. 1480-1528) by publications. Saskatchewan Bergthaler. Rüschlikon and in 1949 the seminary this time. The primary mission of IBTS is photographs. H. Wayne Walker Pipkin and Anabaptism Connie Wiebe, Archives Administrative After a delicious lunch of borscht, began offering classes toward a Bachelor to serve Baptist Unions and seminaries by At the end of the project, it is hoped that Assistant, receives, sorts, files and potato soup, meat and buns, Leonard and Mission edited by Wilbert R. Shenk of Divinity degree with a faculty recruited offering higher degrees in theology that records will annually be transferred to the updates the listings of these collections. Doell gave a presentation on the Berg- and Peter F. Penner. The library of IBTS, primarily from North America. The would equip conference leaders, archives. For a detailed listing of congregational thaler Mennonite Church of Saskatch- with 75,000 volumes, is one of the largest seminary provided a multi-cultural, multi- missiologists, and seminary lecturers. In records look under holdings on our ewan. Current Bishop, George Buhler English language theological libraries in national community that trained ministers 1998 IBTS became a validated institution website at: spoke about the future of the church. continental Europe. www.mennonitechurch.ca/programs/archives/ I was encouraged by the response to my for service throughout Europe. of the University of Wales with the right Besides its academic programs, IBTS presentation and enjoyed talking with In 1988 the Southern Baptists handed to offer Master of Theology degrees and offers a variety of opportunities for people on various historical topics during over responsibility and ownership of the supervise students working towards a engaging in theological reflection within a the breaks. seminary to the European Baptist Doctor of Philosophy degree in four European context. Conferences are held I was given a tour of the Mennonite Federation. Several challenges faced the areas: Applied Theology, Baptist and villages in the Osler area by resident Len on a variety of topics each year, which new governing body. The lack of Anabaptist Studies, Biblical Studies, and Doell and then treated to a delicious meal, draw participants from around the world, international accreditation provided Contextual Missiology. In 2000 the including farmer sausage, with MHSS particularly Anabaptist scholars from difficulties for students wishing to pursue government of the Czech Republic president Jake Buhler and his wife Louise. North America. IBTS also offers visitors further studies outside of Switzerland. granted IBTS accreditation for a Magister Tamara Dyck. Credit: A.R. On Sunday I spoke to Osler Mennonite to Prague accommodations at its Hotel Church adult Sunday school group on the The considerable financial pressures for of Theology degree, which is recognized Genealogy Card Scanning story of the conscientious objectors using Jenerálka on campus, which is only 20 Connie Wiebe. Credit: A.R. www.alternativeservice.ca website. I sug- minutes from the city centre. Further Project Phase 2 gested that if we want peace in our world information about IBTS can be found on he rather routine task of stamping a Anabaptist Display Finished we need to be telling the stories of those their website: www.ibts.eu. Tsequential number on both sides of who have worked for peace. As a Canadian, I have found IBTS to be each one of the approximately 200,000 new “Who are the Mennonites?” a rich environment for study within a Adisplay that was talked about European Anabaptist context. I have and then feeding them through the card beginning ten years ago was dedicated at scanner in batches of 40, is being appreciated the emphasis on communal the Centre on December 18, 2008. The hermeneutics, engagement within the life gathering of Mennonite Church Canada and Canadian Mennonite University staff of the church, and intentional Anabaptist and faculty, and friends were encouraged spirituality that is not detached from to use the exhibit to help visitors get an rigorous academic scholarship. introduction to Mennonite faith and Endnotes 1 history. The historical account of IBTS that follows is It is estimated that 75% of visitors to based on Petra Veselá, Fit for a King: Tracing the Centre have never visited before, nor the History of the Czech Republic, Jenerálka Ray Dirks (left) designed the display, Dr. and IBTS (Jenerálka: IBTS, 2004), 41, 67-72. been to a Mennonite institution. It is John J. Friesen (right) retired CMU 2 Keith G. Jones, “The European Baptist hoped that this exhibit will help address professor researched and wrote the text. Alf Federation: A Case Study in European Baptist their questions and also breakdown stereo Redekopp (centre) provided overall Interdependency, 1950-2006” (PhD diss., Christina Redekopp. Credit: A.R. types and misunderstandings. A.R. supervision. Credit: Dan Dyck, MC Canada. The International Baptist Theological Seminary in Prague. Photo credit: Doug Heidebrecht. University of Wales, 2007), 150. The International Baptist Theological Seminary in Prague Page 7 By Doug Heidebrecht maintaining the seminary were heightened had first heard of the International when the Foreign Mission Board voted to IBaptist Theological Seminary (IBTS) in discontinue their promised ongoing Prague, Czech Republic from David financial support of the seminary in Giesbrecht, former librarian at Columbia 1991.2 With the collapse of communism Bible College and now Director of the during the early 1990s, dozens of national 1310 Taylor Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3M 3Z6 Archives for the Mennonite Historical seminaries emerged all across central and throughout Europe. Society of B.C. David and his wife Betty eastern Europe, which raised questions IBTS has established several institutes had volunteered in the library at IBTS about the viability of IBTS. that engage in ongoing research projects. during the fall of 2003. I was exploring The European Baptist Federation The Institute of Baptist and Anabaptist various doctoral programs and David’s decided to relocate the seminary to the Studies, for example, is currently working enthusiastic report of their time in Prague Czech Republic, which facilitated on a project to make Balthasar Hub- caught my interest. I applied to begin attendance by students from eastern maier’s writings available for online Ph.D. studies at IBTS in the fall of 2004 Europe and offered the possibility of research. The IBTS Library holds photo- and encountered a vibrant Anabaptist much lower operating costs. Jenerálka graphic reproductions of the original community in the heart of Europe. Castle, an estate built in 1828 and located prints of all of Hubmaier’s works. The This year the IBST is celebrating its in a village with the same name (which in th Institute of Baptist and Anabaptist Studies 60 anniversary. In 1948, the Baptist Czech means “woman general”) on the has also been involved in the restoration World Alliance held a consultation in east side of the Šárka Valley just outside of a seventeenth-century Anabaptist London to discuss mission work in post- of the city of Prague, was purchased in 1 House in the village of Sobotište in war Europe. At this meeting, the 1994. Renovation of the derelict buildings Western Slovakia. Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Board took place from 1994-1997 with the Each year IBTS publishes the Journal announced their intention to start a assistance of over a thousand volunteers. of European Baptist Studies (JEBS) as seminary in Switzerland, a neutral country In April 1997 IBTS officially opened in well several research publications. Recent not involved in war reconstruction. An its new location. volumes include: The Life and Ministry of estate was purchased in the village of The vision for IBTS also changed at Balthasar Hubmaier (ca. 1480-1528) by Rüschlikon and in 1949 the seminary this time. The primary mission of IBTS is H. Wayne Walker Pipkin and Anabaptism began offering classes toward a Bachelor to serve Baptist Unions and seminaries by and Mission edited by Wilbert R. Shenk of Divinity degree with a faculty recruited offering higher degrees in theology that and Peter F. Penner. The library of IBTS, primarily from North America. The would equip conference leaders, with 75,000 volumes, is one of the largest seminary provided a multi-cultural, multi- missiologists, and seminary lecturers. In English language theological libraries in national community that trained ministers 1998 IBTS became a validated institution continental Europe. for service throughout Europe. of the University of Wales with the right Besides its academic programs, IBTS In 1988 the Southern Baptists handed to offer Master of Theology degrees and offers a variety of opportunities for over responsibility and ownership of the supervise students working towards a engaging in theological reflection within a seminary to the European Baptist Doctor of Philosophy degree in four European context. Conferences are held Federation. Several challenges faced the areas: Applied Theology, Baptist and on a variety of topics each year, which new governing body. The lack of Anabaptist Studies, Biblical Studies, and draw participants from around the world, international accreditation provided Contextual Missiology. In 2000 the particularly Anabaptist scholars from difficulties for students wishing to pursue government of the Czech Republic North America. IBTS also offers visitors further studies outside of Switzerland. granted IBTS accreditation for a Magister to Prague accommodations at its Hotel The considerable financial pressures for of Theology degree, which is recognized Jenerálka on campus, which is only 20 minutes from the city centre. Further information about IBTS can be found on their website: www.ibts.eu. As a Canadian, I have found IBTS to be a rich environment for study within a European Anabaptist context. I have appreciated the emphasis on communal hermeneutics, engagement within the life of the church, and intentional Anabaptist spirituality that is not detached from rigorous academic scholarship. Endnotes 1 The historical account of IBTS that follows is based on Petra Veselá, Fit for a King: Tracing the History of the Czech Republic, Jenerálka and IBTS (Jenerálka: IBTS, 2004), 41, 67-72. 2 Keith G. Jones, “The European Baptist Federation: A Case Study in European Baptist Interdependency, 1950-2006” (PhD diss., The International Baptist Theological Seminary in Prague. Photo credit: Doug Heidebrecht. University of Wales, 2007), 150. Page 8 Page 9 Low German Lose Two and a larger version in 1995. Dr. Rhinehart F. Friesen† Award of Excellence to David K. Schellenberg The work was well received by the The Mennonite Historical Society of Canada named David K. Significant People general public, and, as Reuben Epp has (1914-2009) he Mennonite Historical Society of By Elmer Heinrichs noted, is repeatedly quoted in Preussiches r. Rhinehart F. Friesen was born TCanada named David K. Woerterbuch being compiled by the January 6, 1914 in Gretna, Manitoba Schellenberg as the recipient of its 2009 he use of Low German as a D University of Kiel in Germany. to Jacob L. and Maria Friesen. In Award of Excellence for his contribution communication medium has been a T John J. Neufeld hailed from the district childhood he grew in the community of to the preservation of Canadian part of Dutch and Russian Mennonite life of Rosenheim north of Rosenfeld, his large family and in the freedom of the Mennonite history over a lifetime. The and expression from the very beginning of attended the Winkler Bible School in the open prairie and woods. award, made at the Society’s January 24 their existence as a separate and distinct 1950s and, among other things, became a When Rhinehart finished Grade 11 at annual meeting in Montreal, especially Christian community. much-listened-to radio preacher in the the age of 14 it was obvious he was too noted his untiring efforts in the creation Herman Rempel of Morden and Rev. Low German language. young to confront the world of the and nurture of the Evangelical Mennonite John J. Neufeld of Winnipeg gave special He joined the Gospel Light Hour Depression, so his parents and teachers Conference Archives located in attention and made big contributions not produced in Winnipeg and broadcast on wisely persuaded him to spread Grade 12 Steinbach, Manitoba. just to the maintenance of the language two stations at first, CFQC in Saskatoon, over two years taking extra subjects and Rev. Schellenberg, who died November but also to its continuing practical and CFAM in Altona. participating heavily in both intra and 8, 2008 at the age of 91, served as a pastor applications. His Licht von Evangelium productions extra-mural activities. After graduation in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, stretched over 28 years, with some 5,000 from the Mennonite Collegiate Institute at and the editor of its English-language programs. His translation of Bible texts Gretna in 1930, he attended Normal paper from 1963 to 1987. He was a into Low German then led to a project to School in Winnipeg from 1931 to 1932. conscientious objector in World War II, translate the entire New Testament into He took his first job teaching Elementary and frequently emphasized nonresistance Low German. rd School in Winkler, Manitoba. in his editorial work. “Dave,” as he was On his 73 birthday in May of 1986 While teaching in Winkler he boarded Dr. Rhinehart Friesen (1914-2009) Photo known to all, participated in many Neufeld finished the last verses of at the home of Dr. Cornelius Wiebe who credit: Mennonite Mirror, May 1983. historical projects for the Evangelical Revelation. inspired Rhinehart's journey into Mennonite Conference, and in his Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg (left) is being recognized in 2007 for his many years of Daut Niehe Testament became a medicine: an ambitious choice, especially leader of the Manitoba medical retirement years served on the significant spiritual resource to many Low service with Evangelical Mennonite since at that time admission to the community as a physician, teacher and denomination’s archives committee until Conference (EMC) archives and the German-speaking people for whom this University of Manitoba Medical School innovator and as a favourite of medical 2006. He remained a consultant to the archives committee by Don Kroeker, chair could now become not only a language to was limited to a small handful of non- staff and patients wherever he practiced. EMC Archives until his death. of the EMC archives committee. speak but to read as well. The New anglo candidates. (See Mennonite Mirror, Volume 12, No. 9 The Society was pleased to have its Testament in Low German was published Upon completion of his medical – May 1983, for Dr. Friesen’s account of annual meeting hosted by the newest 1970: A People Transformed to every by Kindred Press in 1988. internship, Rhinehart married Eira Charles this medical break-through. – A.R.) provincial Mennonite historical society -- Mennonite congregation in Canada. Herman Rempel. Photo: Kjenn jie noch Plautdietsch? Neufeld translated the Psalms and on February 11, 1944. Shortly thereafter, During Rhinehart Friesen’s retirement la Société historique mennonite du Copies of Frank H. Epp’s Mennonites in Proverbs as well. With the help of the with the rank of Captain, Royal Canadian years in the 1980s, he was involved in Québec formed in 2007. Much of that Canada, 1920-1940: A people's struggle United Bible Society the whole Old Army Medical Corps, he was posted to numerous volunteer activities related to society’s efforts have focused on for survival will also be offered to Testament could appear in Low German, Halifax and Debert, Nova Scotia, and senior’s retirement education, children’s identifying and gathering the documents congregations for the cost of postage. with 3,000 copies of the entire Bible Goose Bay, Labrador. Following the war love of reading and Mennonite history. He related to the early history of Mennonites The Mennonite Historical Society of selling in 2007 alone. he began a residency at Royal Victoria was a member of the Manitoba Mennonite in Québec. Canada was established in 1966 to Rev. John J. Neufeld passed away on Hospital in Halifax. This residency was Historical Society for a number of years. The Canadian Society celebrated sponsor the Mennonites in Canada history October 25, 2008 at the age of 95. A interrupted in 1946 when he contracted He was the author of Almost an Elephant several landmarks in the past year. The series by Frank H. Epp and Ted Regehr. funeral service was held on October 31 at tuberculosis giving mouth-to-mouth (1987) and A Mennonite Odyssey (1988). Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclo- Its membership is composed of six Eastview Community Church in resuscitation to a dying patient. He spent a He also enjoyed woodworking, pedia Online (GAMEO) now boasts provincial Mennonite historical societies, Winnipeg. Interment was at La Salle year in Ninette Sanatorium. Expected demonstrating craftsmanship in simple 14,000 articles, including all of the four Mennonite denominational bodies, Cemetery. His Low German translations never to be strong enough to practice things such as the building of toy boats. articles from the print Mennonite Encyclo- Mennonite Central Committee Canada carry forward his concerns for ministry. medicine but greatly respected by his Playing the piano and singing brought pedia. The Divergent Voices of Canadian and the Chair of Mennonite Studies at the (Adapted from Heritage Posting.) Rev. John J. Neufeld. Photo: CMBS NP149-01-5395 professors, he was awarded the position of happiness and togetherness into the home. Mennonites (DVCM), primarily funded University of Winnipeg. As a member of Westminster United The 2009 executive is Sam Steiner Both men passed away late last year but Medical Director of the Manitoba Cancer by Mennonite Central Committee Canada, Church he served as an elder, an outreach (Waterloo, Ontario), President; Royden their legacy remains significant to many Relief and Research Institute. After six reported the publication of Marlene Epp’s visitor and on numerous committees. Loewen, (Winnipeg, Manitoba), Vice- who retain the language as an important years he restarted his career with a Mennonite Women in Canada: a History Rhinehart F. Friesen died on February President; Lucille Marr (Montreal, aspect of their life. residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at by University of Winnipeg Press and a 6, 2009, predeceased by his beloved wife, Quebec), Secretary; Richard Thiessen Rempel, a long-time resident of the University of Manitoba and was successful conference on Mennonites and Eira of 65 years, on December 11, 2008. (Abbotsford, B.C.), Treasurer; and Alf Winnipeg before moving to Morden to awarded a Fellow of the Royal College of Money at the University of Winnipeg in Rhinehart and Eira had 3 sons and 1 Redekopp (Winnipeg, Manitoba), fifth work and retire, spent much of his life in Surgeons (Canada) in 1957. October 2008. daughter – John, Bruce, Gordon and member. civil service, then went on to running for In 1964, in collaboration with Dr. Jack Among other decisions, the Society Leslie-Anne. political office and in retirement also Bowman, Dr. Friesen performed the first approved donating copies of Ted D. (Adapted from obituary published Feb. 9, MHSC News Release devoting himself warmly to the family. successful intrauterine transfusion saving Regehr’s Mennonites in Canada, 1939- 2009 in Winnipeg Free Press) He passed away on October 11, 2008. babies threatened by Rh disease. He Many people came to know Herman John J. Neufeld (left) and Neil Klassen, became an international expert in the best for his Low German-English Producer at MB Communications in technique and lectured extensively at dictionary, Kjenn Jie Noch Plautdietsch?, Winnipeg with a Low German translation conferences worldwide. Through the of scripture in 1984. Photo: CMBS NP109- which was published twice, first in 1984, 1960s and 1970s he became a respected 10-23. Page 8 Page 9 Low German Lose Two and a larger version in 1995. Dr. Rhinehart F. Friesen† Award of Excellence to David K. Schellenberg The work was well received by the The Mennonite Historical Society of Canada named David K. Significant People general public, and, as Reuben Epp has (1914-2009) he Mennonite Historical Society of By Elmer Heinrichs noted, is repeatedly quoted in Preussiches r. Rhinehart F. Friesen was born TCanada named David K. Woerterbuch being compiled by the January 6, 1914 in Gretna, Manitoba Schellenberg as the recipient of its 2009 he use of Low German as a D University of Kiel in Germany. to Jacob L. and Maria Friesen. In Award of Excellence for his contribution communication medium has been a T John J. Neufeld hailed from the district childhood he grew in the community of to the preservation of Canadian part of Dutch and Russian Mennonite life of Rosenheim north of Rosenfeld, his large family and in the freedom of the Mennonite history over a lifetime. The and expression from the very beginning of attended the Winkler Bible School in the open prairie and woods. award, made at the Society’s January 24 their existence as a separate and distinct 1950s and, among other things, became a When Rhinehart finished Grade 11 at annual meeting in Montreal, especially Christian community. much-listened-to radio preacher in the the age of 14 it was obvious he was too noted his untiring efforts in the creation Herman Rempel of Morden and Rev. Low German language. young to confront the world of the and nurture of the Evangelical Mennonite John J. Neufeld of Winnipeg gave special He joined the Gospel Light Hour Depression, so his parents and teachers Conference Archives located in attention and made big contributions not produced in Winnipeg and broadcast on wisely persuaded him to spread Grade 12 Steinbach, Manitoba. just to the maintenance of the language two stations at first, CFQC in Saskatoon, over two years taking extra subjects and Rev. Schellenberg, who died November but also to its continuing practical and CFAM in Altona. participating heavily in both intra and 8, 2008 at the age of 91, served as a pastor applications. His Licht von Evangelium productions extra-mural activities. After graduation in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference, stretched over 28 years, with some 5,000 from the Mennonite Collegiate Institute at and the editor of its English-language programs. His translation of Bible texts Gretna in 1930, he attended Normal paper from 1963 to 1987. He was a into Low German then led to a project to School in Winnipeg from 1931 to 1932. conscientious objector in World War II, translate the entire New Testament into He took his first job teaching Elementary and frequently emphasized nonresistance Low German. rd School in Winkler, Manitoba. in his editorial work. “Dave,” as he was On his 73 birthday in May of 1986 While teaching in Winkler he boarded Dr. Rhinehart Friesen (1914-2009) Photo known to all, participated in many Neufeld finished the last verses of at the home of Dr. Cornelius Wiebe who credit: Mennonite Mirror, May 1983. historical projects for the Evangelical Revelation. inspired Rhinehart's journey into Mennonite Conference, and in his Rev. Dave K. Schellenberg (left) is being recognized in 2007 for his many years of Daut Niehe Testament became a medicine: an ambitious choice, especially leader of the Manitoba medical retirement years served on the significant spiritual resource to many Low service with Evangelical Mennonite since at that time admission to the community as a physician, teacher and denomination’s archives committee until Conference (EMC) archives and the German-speaking people for whom this University of Manitoba Medical School innovator and as a favourite of medical 2006. He remained a consultant to the archives committee by Don Kroeker, chair could now become not only a language to was limited to a small handful of non- staff and patients wherever he practiced. EMC Archives until his death. of the EMC archives committee. speak but to read as well. The New anglo candidates. (See Mennonite Mirror, Volume 12, No. 9 The Society was pleased to have its Testament in Low German was published Upon completion of his medical – May 1983, for Dr. Friesen’s account of annual meeting hosted by the newest 1970: A People Transformed to every by Kindred Press in 1988. internship, Rhinehart married Eira Charles this medical break-through. – A.R.) provincial Mennonite historical society -- Mennonite congregation in Canada. Herman Rempel. Photo: Kjenn jie noch Plautdietsch? Neufeld translated the Psalms and on February 11, 1944. Shortly thereafter, During Rhinehart Friesen’s retirement la Société historique mennonite du Copies of Frank H. Epp’s Mennonites in Proverbs as well. With the help of the with the rank of Captain, Royal Canadian years in the 1980s, he was involved in Québec formed in 2007. Much of that Canada, 1920-1940: A people's struggle United Bible Society the whole Old Army Medical Corps, he was posted to numerous volunteer activities related to society’s efforts have focused on for survival will also be offered to Testament could appear in Low German, Halifax and Debert, Nova Scotia, and senior’s retirement education, children’s identifying and gathering the documents congregations for the cost of postage. with 3,000 copies of the entire Bible Goose Bay, Labrador. Following the war love of reading and Mennonite history. He related to the early history of Mennonites The Mennonite Historical Society of selling in 2007 alone. he began a residency at Royal Victoria was a member of the Manitoba Mennonite in Québec. Canada was established in 1966 to Rev. John J. Neufeld passed away on Hospital in Halifax. This residency was Historical Society for a number of years. The Canadian Society celebrated sponsor the Mennonites in Canada history October 25, 2008 at the age of 95. A interrupted in 1946 when he contracted He was the author of Almost an Elephant several landmarks in the past year. The series by Frank H. Epp and Ted Regehr. funeral service was held on October 31 at tuberculosis giving mouth-to-mouth (1987) and A Mennonite Odyssey (1988). Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclo- Its membership is composed of six Eastview Community Church in resuscitation to a dying patient. He spent a He also enjoyed woodworking, pedia Online (GAMEO) now boasts provincial Mennonite historical societies, Winnipeg. Interment was at La Salle year in Ninette Sanatorium. Expected demonstrating craftsmanship in simple 14,000 articles, including all of the four Mennonite denominational bodies, Cemetery. His Low German translations never to be strong enough to practice things such as the building of toy boats. articles from the print Mennonite Encyclo- Mennonite Central Committee Canada carry forward his concerns for ministry. medicine but greatly respected by his Playing the piano and singing brought pedia. The Divergent Voices of Canadian and the Chair of Mennonite Studies at the (Adapted from Heritage Posting.) Rev. John J. Neufeld. Photo: CMBS NP149-01-5395 professors, he was awarded the position of happiness and togetherness into the home. Mennonites (DVCM), primarily funded University of Winnipeg. As a member of Westminster United The 2009 executive is Sam Steiner Both men passed away late last year but Medical Director of the Manitoba Cancer by Mennonite Central Committee Canada, Church he served as an elder, an outreach (Waterloo, Ontario), President; Royden their legacy remains significant to many Relief and Research Institute. After six reported the publication of Marlene Epp’s visitor and on numerous committees. Loewen, (Winnipeg, Manitoba), Vice- who retain the language as an important years he restarted his career with a Mennonite Women in Canada: a History Rhinehart F. Friesen died on February President; Lucille Marr (Montreal, aspect of their life. residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at by University of Winnipeg Press and a 6, 2009, predeceased by his beloved wife, Quebec), Secretary; Richard Thiessen Rempel, a long-time resident of the University of Manitoba and was successful conference on Mennonites and Eira of 65 years, on December 11, 2008. (Abbotsford, B.C.), Treasurer; and Alf Winnipeg before moving to Morden to awarded a Fellow of the Royal College of Money at the University of Winnipeg in Rhinehart and Eira had 3 sons and 1 Redekopp (Winnipeg, Manitoba), fifth work and retire, spent much of his life in Surgeons (Canada) in 1957. October 2008. daughter – John, Bruce, Gordon and member. civil service, then went on to running for In 1964, in collaboration with Dr. Jack Among other decisions, the Society Leslie-Anne. political office and in retirement also Bowman, Dr. Friesen performed the first approved donating copies of Ted D. (Adapted from obituary published Feb. 9, MHSC News Release devoting himself warmly to the family. successful intrauterine transfusion saving Regehr’s Mennonites in Canada, 1939- 2009 in Winnipeg Free Press) He passed away on October 11, 2008. babies threatened by Rh disease. He Many people came to know Herman John J. Neufeld (left) and Neil Klassen, became an international expert in the best for his Low German-English Producer at MB Communications in technique and lectured extensively at dictionary, Kjenn Jie Noch Plautdietsch?, Winnipeg with a Low German translation conferences worldwide. Through the of scripture in 1984. Photo: CMBS NP109- which was published twice, first in 1984, 1960s and 1970s he became a respected 10-23. Page 10 Page 11 Book Notes The Mennonite Saga: (With Medics in selection of his poetry. Since the journals implied by the previous sentence], thirty- (p. 69), under this elected leadership, “on World War II), a historical novel by Lee of Peter A. Elias have been widely quoted Call for papers two of the leading Brethren were sum- the following Sunday, 6 June, Holy by Adolf Ens Heide (Victoria, BC: Trafford Publishing, in historical books relating to Mennonites A conference exploring the past 150 years of moned to the Halbstadt District Office to Communion was observed. Since 10 Feb- th wo significant new books on 16 2008), attempts in 281 pages to give in in Manitoba, this book is significant. the Mennonite Brethren Church will be held in answer charges of having baptized two ruary 1860, when the three brethren had Tcentury Anabaptism were published alternating chapters a historical overview Unfortunately, the chapter divisions of the July of 2010, immediately preceding the bi- people in a river.” These dates appear to given their signatures to the inspector, the last year, one dealing with a trained of Mennonite history from Menno Simons (abridged) English translation do not national gatherings of the United States and be in conflict with other official events seceded group had not held communion theologian, Balthasar Hubmaier, who to the present, and a fictional account of conform to those of the German original, the Canadian Mennonite Brethren Conferences surrounding the founding of the Menn- services.” being held in British Columbia. The general helped shape the movement in eastern the experiences of Medical Corpsman making it difficult to check the onite Brethren Church according to the Bekker (p. 70) continues, “At this time theme will be: Europe during a very brief leadership cut Paul Haydon in the European theatre of translator’s sometimes insecure rendering account of Jacob P. Bekker in his book, we were not aware of baptism by Searching for the Center and short by martyrdom; the other about a lay WW II. The author has written several of Elias’ meaning. Origin of the Mennonite Brethren Church immersion. This form of baptism had leader who gave lifelong guidance to other novels as well as some volumes of Anna Kosloff & Anna Bilborough, Defining Boundaries: Mennonite (translated and published by the Menno- remained entirely foreign to the majority. south German Anabaptism. short stories. Her grandfather, born in Stateless (Richmond, Victoria, Australia: Brethren Experience as Anabaptists nite Brethren Historical Society of the After three months [September 1860] two The importance of Balthasar Hubmaier Ekaterinoslav immigrated to the Rosthern Greenhouse Publications, 1983), 214 and Evangelicals Midwest, Hillsboro KS, 1973). According converted sisters who had not yet received for Anabaptist Mennonite studies was area in 1895. At the time the fictional pages, appears on the face of it to be an to the account of Bekker, who was my the ‘sprinkling baptism’ in the old church confirmed when his key theological Haydon joins the Canadian forces the odd choice for a book note here in 2009. In 1860 the Mennonite Brethren Church great great uncle, he became the leader of requested to be baptized by us.” Prior to emerged within the context of religious and writings were translated and published as family lives in Abbotsford, B.C. James Urry discovered it in a used the Mennonite Brethren Church when it that time those joining the seceded group th social ferment in the Ukraine. During the first the 5 volume of the Herald Press series, A very different approach is used in bookshop and quickly determined that its few decades of its existence, the movement was founded because Abraham Cornelsen had no reason to be rebaptized because Classics of the Radical Reformation, in Bruno Friesen, Panzer Gunner: From my co-authors were Anna (Bergen) Nachtigal struggled with integrating Anabaptist, Pietist, along with Johann Claassen and Isaak the sprinkling baptism received in the old 1989. Baptists had promoted him before Native Canada to the German Ostfront Kossloff and her daughter. Born 1900 in and Baptist influences into a distinctive Koop were misled by the inspector of a church was regarded as adequate. The th that, especially in the publication of and Back. In Action with the 25 Panzer the Samara district in Russia, Anna was identity within the larger Mennonite church high court into signing an agreement in duty to perform these two convert Torsten Bergsten’s Balthasar Hubmaier: Regiment, 7th Panzer Division 1944-45 unsuccessful in her efforts to immigrate to body. Subsequent emigrations moved the early February 1860 that they would take baptisms fell on Bekker. Not until this Anabaptist Theologian and Martyr in (West Midlands, UK: Helion & Company, Canada after the revolution. Her alternate center of the church from its birthplace to no further action in religious matters until time in September 1860, after prayer and 1978. In 2006 one of the translators of the 2008), 220 pages, hdc. Born to new route led eastward into China and India, North and South America while mission they had the explicit sanction of the study by Bekker and Heinrich Bartel Classics volume, H.W.W. Pipkin, chose immigrants in Manitoba in 1925, the then back west to Germany and efforts expanded ethnic boundaries. Mennonite government. These three had comprised based on a pamphlet brought back from Brethren continue to wrestle with their identity Hubmaier as his theme for the annual author was in public school in Kitchener, eventually to Australia. Dramatic flight the executive committee that was St. Petersburg by Claassen, and subse- Hughey Lectures. The result is a 118-page amidst the push and pull of various religious Ontario in 1939 when he and his brother stories from communist Russia are not movements and within their diverse regional appointed to present the original letter of quent approval by the congregation (Bek- booklet entitled Scholar, Pastor, Martyr: were shipped to Germany about 6 months unfamiliar in Russian Mennonite history, and cultural contexts. secession authored by Abraham Cornel- ker p. 72), did the new Mennonite Breth- The Life and Ministry of Balthasar before Canada joined the war against yet this particular journey differs sen (signed 6 Jan. 1860) to the council of ren Church come to the conclusion that Hubmaier (ca. 1480–1528), published Germany. In 1942 he joined the significantly in its unique route and the The organizing committee is issuing a call for elders of the Mennonite Church. baptism should be by immersion. Where- papers to be presented at this conference. (2008) in the Czech Republic by the Wehrmacht, spending most of his service experiences of a stateless Mennonite According to Bekker’s account, the upon “Bekker first baptized Bartel, then International Baptist Theological Please send us a one-page summary of the time on the eastern front. The core of this woman married to a Russian. theme of a paper you wish to explore. The three honored that agreement and Bartel baptized Jacob Bekker, and the Seminary of the East European Baptist book describes Friesen’s time in the general theme may be addressed from suspended religious activity while Johann latter then baptized three others” (Bekker Federation. Not only is this a fresh military. It is detailed, technical and Book Reviews theological, sociological, historical or related Claassen journeyed to St. Petersburg to p. 73). Only after this date, when the biography by a long-time Hubmaier relatively detached. (James Urry (cont’d from p. 12) disciplines. Deadline for submissions is May seek the possibility of official sanctioning. doctrine of baptism by immersion began scholar, but it also encompasses the discovered the book in a New Zealand for the intricacies of human psychology 15, 2009. Please send your submission to Claassen did not return until May, which to be taught, did others who had been significant scholarly work produced on shop “that deals in military and technical will be fascinated by this study of a strong contradicts the possibility of baptisms members of the old Mennonite Church him in the two decades since his books.) Friesen returned to Kitchener- man who had to struggle with particular Mennonite Brethren Historical Commission taking place between February and May, begin to contemplate and receive baptism theological writings were published. It is Waterloo in 1950, seemingly fitting in personal weaknesses. When it would have 1310 Taylor Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3M3Z6 1860. The summoning of the 32 brethren into the Mennonite Brethren Church. available for 250CZK (about $14 Cdn.) with his former Mennonite congregation been easy and natural for him to lead Or email: [email protected] or in February 1860 appears to be impossible If Bekker’s account is correct, then plus shipping from [email protected]. as well as any other returning soldier or autocratically he chose, however, to be a [email protected]. because the second letter of secession Abraham Cornelsen could not have The Writings of Pilgram Marpeck, CO. There is not much detail on family consensus builder. While he was selfless signed by the 32 brethren was not officially joined the Mennonite Brethren translated and edited by William Klassen dynamics – what went into the decision of in the time and energy that he gave to the presented until 19 March 1860 (Bekker p. Church by baptism on 25 April 1860. nd Letter to the Editor and Walter Klaassen came out as the 2 his father Gerhard Friesen (the well- church, he felt betrayed and offended I read with great interest the article 59-61). Rather, according to Bekker (pp. While it is possible that he could have volume of the Classics of the Radical known author “Fritz Senn”) to move his when his example as a father or his entitled “Abraham Cornelsen (1826- 75-78), this event occurred after baptisms been baptized by sprinkling into the old Reformation in 1978. While Hubmaier’s family to Germany so shortly before the commitment to progress was questioned. 1884): A Biography.” by Helmut T. that occurred in September 1860. church, that seems highly unlikely after primary influence on the movement was outbreak of World War II. Further, it is ironical that the man who Huebert (Sep. 2008). I was particularly in- The advice Claassen received was that the first letter of secession was authored through his writings, Marpeck left a The Journal of Peter Elias (1843– was seen as a leader in the early changes terested because Abraham Cornelsen was the three members of the executive by him. Helmut T. Huebert, who authored personal and practical imprint on the 1925): Journal of the Emigration from was later criticized and rejected because apparently instrumental in the conversion committee should take no role in the the article on Abraham Cornelsen has shape and character of the emerging Russia to America & Experiences in he could not understand or accept the of the family of my great grandfather formation of the new church to avoid shared with me the sources for this date of believers church through his long Canada from 1875 to 1920, (Abe Elias, need for more changes. Martin Just II to the Mennonite Brethren prosecution for violating the agreement baptism, which consist of a family history leadership role. William and Walter have [2008]), consists of three parts. The first Mary Neufeld has done an admirable job Church. In fact, the article mentions the they had signed. Rather, the congregation he believes was prepared by the Cornel- now collaborated on a new volume, (58 pages) consists of excerpts from one of analyzing the life of the father she role of the “Heins and Justs” as recent should elect teaching ministers from sen family, and a GRANDMA entry for Marpeck: A Life of Dissent and of the handwritten journals of Peter A. loved, and thereby she helps us appreciate converts in defusing the situation that led among the rest of the congregation. Upon him (#16147). I am also aware of some Conformity (Herald Press, 2008, 423 Elias as translated by W.J. Kehler in the sacrifices of those who influenced and to Abraham Cornelsen’s imprisonment. his return, Claassen presented this advice errors in Bekker’s account, but mostly in pages), giving us the fruit of their long 1990. The second (155 pages) is a shaped the churches that we know today. I write to point out some conflicting to the congregation on 30 May 1860. That his reference to historical facts that scholarship in showing more transcription by Abe Elias, Winkler (a afternoon, four brethren were nominated predated his involvement in the founding Worship at ‘George Street” – a history of information regarding some dates con- comprehensively the dynamics of great-grandson of the author, and to become teaching ministers and two of the Mennonite Brethren Church. Thus, our transitions 1924-2008 is a 270 page tained in the article. One is the statement Marpeck’s long theological dialogue with publisher of this book) of the original were elected (Jacob P. Bekker and ultimate resolution of these conflicts hard cover publication by Karl Dick. that Abraham Cornelsen “officially joined other contemporary Reformation leaders. German manuscript. The third part (42 Heinrich Huebert). This seems to be the appears to require further research, but the Available for $25. Contact: W-K United the church when he was baptized 25 April Two other recent books are about the unnumbered pages) consists of family official beginning of the new church as detailed account of Bekker is highly Mennonite Church office. P: 519-578- 1860.” Another is the statement that experiences of men of Mennonite descent photographs relating to Peter P. Elias previous documents were primarily docu- convincing. 0660 or E: [email protected]. “Probably early in February [1860 as in the armed forces in World War II. (grandfather of the publisher) and a ments of secession. According to Bekker Richard E. Just, Silver Spring, MD Page 10 Page 11 Book Notes The Mennonite Saga: (With Medics in selection of his poetry. Since the journals implied by the previous sentence], thirty- (p. 69), under this elected leadership, “on World War II), a historical novel by Lee of Peter A. Elias have been widely quoted Call for papers two of the leading Brethren were sum- the following Sunday, 6 June, Holy by Adolf Ens Heide (Victoria, BC: Trafford Publishing, in historical books relating to Mennonites A conference exploring the past 150 years of moned to the Halbstadt District Office to Communion was observed. Since 10 Feb- th wo significant new books on 16 2008), attempts in 281 pages to give in in Manitoba, this book is significant. the Mennonite Brethren Church will be held in answer charges of having baptized two ruary 1860, when the three brethren had Tcentury Anabaptism were published alternating chapters a historical overview Unfortunately, the chapter divisions of the July of 2010, immediately preceding the bi- people in a river.” These dates appear to given their signatures to the inspector, the last year, one dealing with a trained of Mennonite history from Menno Simons (abridged) English translation do not national gatherings of the United States and be in conflict with other official events seceded group had not held communion theologian, Balthasar Hubmaier, who to the present, and a fictional account of conform to those of the German original, the Canadian Mennonite Brethren Conferences surrounding the founding of the Menn- services.” being held in British Columbia. The general helped shape the movement in eastern the experiences of Medical Corpsman making it difficult to check the onite Brethren Church according to the Bekker (p. 70) continues, “At this time theme will be: Europe during a very brief leadership cut Paul Haydon in the European theatre of translator’s sometimes insecure rendering account of Jacob P. Bekker in his book, we were not aware of baptism by Searching for the Center and short by martyrdom; the other about a lay WW II. The author has written several of Elias’ meaning. Origin of the Mennonite Brethren Church immersion. This form of baptism had leader who gave lifelong guidance to other novels as well as some volumes of Anna Kosloff & Anna Bilborough, Defining Boundaries: Mennonite (translated and published by the Menno- remained entirely foreign to the majority. south German Anabaptism. short stories. Her grandfather, born in Stateless (Richmond, Victoria, Australia: Brethren Experience as Anabaptists nite Brethren Historical Society of the After three months [September 1860] two The importance of Balthasar Hubmaier Ekaterinoslav immigrated to the Rosthern Greenhouse Publications, 1983), 214 and Evangelicals Midwest, Hillsboro KS, 1973). According converted sisters who had not yet received for Anabaptist Mennonite studies was area in 1895. At the time the fictional pages, appears on the face of it to be an to the account of Bekker, who was my the ‘sprinkling baptism’ in the old church confirmed when his key theological Haydon joins the Canadian forces the odd choice for a book note here in 2009. In 1860 the Mennonite Brethren Church great great uncle, he became the leader of requested to be baptized by us.” Prior to emerged within the context of religious and writings were translated and published as family lives in Abbotsford, B.C. James Urry discovered it in a used the Mennonite Brethren Church when it that time those joining the seceded group th social ferment in the Ukraine. During the first the 5 volume of the Herald Press series, A very different approach is used in bookshop and quickly determined that its few decades of its existence, the movement was founded because Abraham Cornelsen had no reason to be rebaptized because Classics of the Radical Reformation, in Bruno Friesen, Panzer Gunner: From my co-authors were Anna (Bergen) Nachtigal struggled with integrating Anabaptist, Pietist, along with Johann Claassen and Isaak the sprinkling baptism received in the old 1989. Baptists had promoted him before Native Canada to the German Ostfront Kossloff and her daughter. Born 1900 in and Baptist influences into a distinctive Koop were misled by the inspector of a church was regarded as adequate. The th that, especially in the publication of and Back. In Action with the 25 Panzer the Samara district in Russia, Anna was identity within the larger Mennonite church high court into signing an agreement in duty to perform these two convert Torsten Bergsten’s Balthasar Hubmaier: Regiment, 7th Panzer Division 1944-45 unsuccessful in her efforts to immigrate to body. Subsequent emigrations moved the early February 1860 that they would take baptisms fell on Bekker. Not until this Anabaptist Theologian and Martyr in (West Midlands, UK: Helion & Company, Canada after the revolution. Her alternate center of the church from its birthplace to no further action in religious matters until time in September 1860, after prayer and 1978. In 2006 one of the translators of the 2008), 220 pages, hdc. Born to new route led eastward into China and India, North and South America while mission they had the explicit sanction of the study by Bekker and Heinrich Bartel Classics volume, H.W.W. Pipkin, chose immigrants in Manitoba in 1925, the then back west to Germany and efforts expanded ethnic boundaries. Mennonite government. These three had comprised based on a pamphlet brought back from Brethren continue to wrestle with their identity Hubmaier as his theme for the annual author was in public school in Kitchener, eventually to Australia. Dramatic flight the executive committee that was St. Petersburg by Claassen, and subse- Hughey Lectures. The result is a 118-page amidst the push and pull of various religious Ontario in 1939 when he and his brother stories from communist Russia are not movements and within their diverse regional appointed to present the original letter of quent approval by the congregation (Bek- booklet entitled Scholar, Pastor, Martyr: were shipped to Germany about 6 months unfamiliar in Russian Mennonite history, and cultural contexts. secession authored by Abraham Cornel- ker p. 72), did the new Mennonite Breth- The Life and Ministry of Balthasar before Canada joined the war against yet this particular journey differs sen (signed 6 Jan. 1860) to the council of ren Church come to the conclusion that Hubmaier (ca. 1480–1528), published Germany. In 1942 he joined the significantly in its unique route and the The organizing committee is issuing a call for elders of the Mennonite Church. baptism should be by immersion. Where- papers to be presented at this conference. (2008) in the Czech Republic by the Wehrmacht, spending most of his service experiences of a stateless Mennonite According to Bekker’s account, the upon “Bekker first baptized Bartel, then International Baptist Theological Please send us a one-page summary of the time on the eastern front. The core of this woman married to a Russian. theme of a paper you wish to explore. The three honored that agreement and Bartel baptized Jacob Bekker, and the Seminary of the East European Baptist book describes Friesen’s time in the general theme may be addressed from suspended religious activity while Johann latter then baptized three others” (Bekker Federation. Not only is this a fresh military. It is detailed, technical and Book Reviews theological, sociological, historical or related Claassen journeyed to St. Petersburg to p. 73). Only after this date, when the biography by a long-time Hubmaier relatively detached. (James Urry (cont’d from p. 12) disciplines. Deadline for submissions is May seek the possibility of official sanctioning. doctrine of baptism by immersion began scholar, but it also encompasses the discovered the book in a New Zealand for the intricacies of human psychology 15, 2009. Please send your submission to Claassen did not return until May, which to be taught, did others who had been significant scholarly work produced on shop “that deals in military and technical will be fascinated by this study of a strong contradicts the possibility of baptisms members of the old Mennonite Church him in the two decades since his books.) Friesen returned to Kitchener- man who had to struggle with particular Mennonite Brethren Historical Commission taking place between February and May, begin to contemplate and receive baptism theological writings were published. It is Waterloo in 1950, seemingly fitting in personal weaknesses. When it would have 1310 Taylor Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3M3Z6 1860. The summoning of the 32 brethren into the Mennonite Brethren Church. available for 250CZK (about $14 Cdn.) with his former Mennonite congregation been easy and natural for him to lead Or email: [email protected] or in February 1860 appears to be impossible If Bekker’s account is correct, then plus shipping from [email protected]. as well as any other returning soldier or autocratically he chose, however, to be a [email protected]. because the second letter of secession Abraham Cornelsen could not have The Writings of Pilgram Marpeck, CO. There is not much detail on family consensus builder. While he was selfless signed by the 32 brethren was not officially joined the Mennonite Brethren translated and edited by William Klassen dynamics – what went into the decision of in the time and energy that he gave to the presented until 19 March 1860 (Bekker p. Church by baptism on 25 April 1860. nd Letter to the Editor and Walter Klaassen came out as the 2 his father Gerhard Friesen (the well- church, he felt betrayed and offended I read with great interest the article 59-61). Rather, according to Bekker (pp. While it is possible that he could have volume of the Classics of the Radical known author “Fritz Senn”) to move his when his example as a father or his entitled “Abraham Cornelsen (1826- 75-78), this event occurred after baptisms been baptized by sprinkling into the old Reformation in 1978. While Hubmaier’s family to Germany so shortly before the commitment to progress was questioned. 1884): A Biography.” by Helmut T. that occurred in September 1860. church, that seems highly unlikely after primary influence on the movement was outbreak of World War II. Further, it is ironical that the man who Huebert (Sep. 2008). I was particularly in- The advice Claassen received was that the first letter of secession was authored through his writings, Marpeck left a The Journal of Peter Elias (1843– was seen as a leader in the early changes terested because Abraham Cornelsen was the three members of the executive by him. Helmut T. Huebert, who authored personal and practical imprint on the 1925): Journal of the Emigration from was later criticized and rejected because apparently instrumental in the conversion committee should take no role in the the article on Abraham Cornelsen has shape and character of the emerging Russia to America & Experiences in he could not understand or accept the of the family of my great grandfather formation of the new church to avoid shared with me the sources for this date of believers church through his long Canada from 1875 to 1920, (Abe Elias, need for more changes. Martin Just II to the Mennonite Brethren prosecution for violating the agreement baptism, which consist of a family history leadership role. William and Walter have [2008]), consists of three parts. The first Mary Neufeld has done an admirable job Church. In fact, the article mentions the they had signed. Rather, the congregation he believes was prepared by the Cornel- now collaborated on a new volume, (58 pages) consists of excerpts from one of analyzing the life of the father she role of the “Heins and Justs” as recent should elect teaching ministers from sen family, and a GRANDMA entry for Marpeck: A Life of Dissent and of the handwritten journals of Peter A. loved, and thereby she helps us appreciate converts in defusing the situation that led among the rest of the congregation. Upon him (#16147). I am also aware of some Conformity (Herald Press, 2008, 423 Elias as translated by W.J. Kehler in the sacrifices of those who influenced and to Abraham Cornelsen’s imprisonment. his return, Claassen presented this advice errors in Bekker’s account, but mostly in pages), giving us the fruit of their long 1990. The second (155 pages) is a shaped the churches that we know today. I write to point out some conflicting to the congregation on 30 May 1860. That his reference to historical facts that scholarship in showing more transcription by Abe Elias, Winkler (a afternoon, four brethren were nominated predated his involvement in the founding Worship at ‘George Street” – a history of information regarding some dates con- comprehensively the dynamics of great-grandson of the author, and to become teaching ministers and two of the Mennonite Brethren Church. Thus, our transitions 1924-2008 is a 270 page tained in the article. One is the statement Marpeck’s long theological dialogue with publisher of this book) of the original were elected (Jacob P. Bekker and ultimate resolution of these conflicts hard cover publication by Karl Dick. that Abraham Cornelsen “officially joined other contemporary Reformation leaders. German manuscript. The third part (42 Heinrich Huebert). This seems to be the appears to require further research, but the Available for $25. Contact: W-K United the church when he was baptized 25 April Two other recent books are about the unnumbered pages) consists of family official beginning of the new church as detailed account of Bekker is highly Mennonite Church office. P: 519-578- 1860.” Another is the statement that experiences of men of Mennonite descent photographs relating to Peter P. Elias previous documents were primarily docu- convincing. 0660 or E: [email protected]. “Probably early in February [1860 as in the armed forces in World War II. (grandfather of the publisher) and a ments of secession. According to Bekker Richard E. Just, Silver Spring, MD Page 12 Van Lit for his part, as a Dutch amount of research and collecting. At Book Reviews photographer, has gathered a most many points the reader will wonder if the Dr. Horst Gerlach ed. Die Russland interesting and graphic set of photos about work would not have been more effective Mennoniten; ein Volk unterwegs Band II: Siberian Mennonites in the somewhat if petty family affairs, household details, Westpreussen, Russand und zurück remote village of Neudachino east of and the repetitive meeting reports had (Kirchheimbolanden: Selbstverlag, 2007), Omsk on the Transsiberian Railway. been edited and reported more concisely. hdc., 416 pp. Ad van Lit, ed. Geen Thematically it highlights the experience At the beginning Mary admits that, being geluk/Kein Glück Mennoniten in Siberie of the intrepid Gerhard and Maria Neufeld one of the younger daughters of the Falk (No Happiness: Mennonites in Siberia) family in its final days of life in the family, her version of her father’s life and (Brummen (NL): Selbstverlag, 2005), pb., village before emigrating to Germany less ministry will likely be biased. My 127 pp. than a decade ago. Having known the impression is that she is actually Neufelds personally adds a strong note of admirably fair and objective. There is Reviewed by Lawrence Klippenstein, interest in this work for the reviewer. little here of the gushy adulation with former MHC Director, now living in With a dual Dutch/German text the which former leaders are sometimes Steinbach. volume again makes up for linguistic described, the uncritical idealization of good deal of current historical exclusion of English with its rather new church movements, or the Aliterature dealing with Mennonites in magnificent photographic portrayal of a reactionary accusations into which the Russia and the former Soviet Union, is family situation that is full of pathos, but children of important figures have being self-published by their authors and also of achievement in the deprived sometimes slipped. Mary is concerned editors. That often means they come out situation of impoverished Mennonites in that her father be remembered and in fewer copies, and are not as familiar to Siberia . These families could make some appreciated for the selfless service to the public as items provided by regular progress after the fall of communism, but which he was committed, but she is also publishers. These two titles illustrate this seeing little future in quality of life frankly candid about the flaws and reality.. It would be unfortunate if they virtually all the families of this weaknesses that the family had to endure. did not reach the readership they target, or community left for Germany. Some thirty This book will be enjoyed by readers even find their way into libraries which of a one- time group of over 100 families who have connections with the could give needed access. Their German remain in Neudachino today. Altona/Winkler area and desire new (in one case German/Dutch) texts will Both volumes are well-printed and insight into the church dynamics that restrict North American usage somewhat, produced, and the editors merit much swirled around the Bergthaler, but the inclusion of many photos will thanks for giving these studies to the Sommerfelder, Mennonite Brethren, and compensate partly for that. reading public. Rudnerweider (EMMC) churches of the Gerlach’s volume is wide- ranging in its area. coverage of Mennonite history in West * * * * * * * * * * Mary’s biography gives us fascinating Prussia, and Russia. Some attention is Mary Neufeld, A Prairie Pilgrim: insight into the lives of our former church given to spillover of the stories to Wilhelm H. Falk (Winnipeg, MB: Self- leaders, men who combined their Germany and Latin America. . With his published, 2008) 461 pp. passionate dedication to the welfare of good access especially to original their churches with the relentless Prussian materials of all kinds, he is able Reviewed by Arden Thiessen, retired responsibilities of earning a living and to supplement significantly the typical EMC minister and part-time Bible caring for a family. How did they do it? rather limited coverage of Prussian College professor in Steinbach. Mary’s research and recollections give us Mennonite life and thought, especially in ilhelm H. Falk (1892 – 1976) was honest insight into how the th the 20 century up to the time of Wone of those sturdy, committed responsibilities of the church affected one dissolution of communities at the end of church leaders who guided the faith and leader’s family life. WWII. cared for the souls of the Mennonite This family chronicle will be valued by Tsarist period Russian Mennonite pilgrims over whom they had spiritual those who have an interest in the story of themes in this volume are quite derivative oversight. In 1927 Wilhelm Falk was the emergence and development of the from earlier published works, but again ordained as a minister of the Sommerfeld Evangelical Mennonite Mission one finds some very valuable and rare church on the West Reserve. From the Conference. There is extensive treatment data from the Soviet period, even after beginning he felt restless about of various conflicts: the German language WWII, which has not been gathered up in entrenched church traditions and preached issue, the matter of pacifism during World recent works on the subject. The story of a message of conversion, renewal, and War II, disagreements over the doctrine of the Siberian Mennonites of Neudachino holy living. He was one of the four eternal security, struggles over conference (the specific theme of Van Lit’s work) is a ministers who were eventually asked to polity, and the encroaching emphasis on a case in point (pp.190ff). leave the church and who then formed the pre-millennial view of the end times. Gerlach’s organizing principle is at group of Rudnerweide congregations. In While denominational sources may have times somewhat unclear, but the material 1937 he was chosen to lead this revival dealt with the history of these issues, is quite readable, many articles are movement as Aeltester, a position in Mary presents another perspective, that of usefully brief, with a number of which he toiled diligently for the next the young daughter who is introduced to contributors of special themes involved. seventeen years. these discords through the agonies of her One must take time to locate and assess a Mary Neufeld, the author of this father. wealth of material, but it is worth the time imposing volume, has done an incredible Those who read biographies with an eye taken to do so. (cont’d on p. 10)