September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17

Mennonite World Conference pages 6-9, 16-22 DeskTop

A divisive debate messy relationships, that “sanctity” is as likely to be found in a “same-sex family” as it is in any other family. We have he move to legalize same-sex marriage in Canada is to grapple with today’s realities in honest, life-giving ways. raising public emotion to an intensity we don’t often But to grapple with reality doesn’t mean that we relin- T see in this country. Convictions run deep—politicians quish our ideal of marriage. For the church, the word are breaking party ranks and church members are taking “marriage” signifies not only a God-given model of compan- on their leaders as the debate divides society and church. ionship but the best environment for raising children. That Religion is back in the public discourse. is why many resist extending the word “marriage” to include We in Mennonite Church Canada are drawn into this other kinds of relationships. political debate because it touches on one of our fundamen- Third, let’s ask the difficult questions. Given the ideal of tal beliefs—that “God intended marriage as a marriage that the church holds, should we not covenant between one man and one woman for We have to grapple encourage commitment and fidelity wherever life.” And yet we can’t agree on how to respond they are found? Should we support the exten- to the proposed legislation. One suggested with today’s reali- sion of legal responsibilities and benefits to gay response (Resolution 6) divided MC Canada ties in honest, life- couples because they can help bring account- delegates right down the middle (see Aug. 4, ability and security to their families? These are page 12 and Aug. 25, page 19). And a statement giving ways, but this questions the church should be asking. from our denominational minister (Aug. 4, page Our Confession of Faith points the way. 9) has some members concerned (see letters). doesn’t mean that Article 19 on “Family, singleness, and mar- How should the church approach the issue of we relinquish our riage” goes far beyond a mere restatement of same-sex marriage? It may not be as simple as traditional notions. It recognizes the immense we first thought. Let me suggest some prerequi- ideal of marriage. changes in our thinking about family in recent sites for our response. decades; it recognizes the shortcomings in all First, let’s examine our motives. What are we afraid of? our relationships and that “not all things can be fixed as we Are we dealing with the real issues? This legislation is not would like.” At the same time, it reminds us of “the power of about undermining marriage or forcing churches to marry the resurrection,” focusing on the church as “a sanctuary of same-sex couples. It’s important for us to distinguish safety and hope” for families. between legal issues in a pluralistic society and what the Fourth, let’s recognize that Scripture and our Confession church confesses. But this issue does have huge symbolic will not provide easy answers. We know that our Confession significance for both church and society. is a summary of our best theological thinking at the mo- Second, let’s do some serious thinking about this issue. My ment, not the final word. We know that some Bible verses files are bulging with insightful articles from church leaders, make clear judgments but that many others emphasize journalists and academics—let’s take advantage of them. Just grace. Can we hold those together as we work at a new to restate a “traditional” notion of marriage is not nearly synthesis for our time? May God guide us as we seek good good enough. Nor is a call to maintain the “sanctity of news for families, both in the church and in our culture.— marriage and family.” In our day of high divorce rates and Margaret Loewen Reimer

Mission statement: Published by Canadian National correspondent: Leona Dueck Penner, Mennonite Publishing Service, Canadian Mennonite Winnipeg, Man. Phone: (204) 888-6781 serves primarily the people and churches of E-mail: [email protected] Mennonite Church Canada and its five area Regional correspondents: conferences. Canadian Mennonite is a bi-weekly Anabaptist/ Mennonite Eastern Canada: Maurice Martin, Phone: (519) 662-1031 periodical which seeks to promote covenantal relationships within the E-mail: [email protected] church (Hebrews 10:23-25). It provides channels for sharing accurate and Manitoba: Evelyn Rempel Petkau, Phone: (204) 745-2208 fair information, faith profiles, inspirational/educational materials, news E-mail: [email protected] and analysis of issues facing the church. Saskatchewan: Karin Fehderau, Phone: (306) 933-4209 E-mail: [email protected] Head office: 490 Dutton Drive, Unit C5, Waterloo, ON N2L 6H7 Alberta: Donita Wiebe-Neufeld, Phone: (780) 436-3431 Phone: (519) 884-3810 Toll-free: 800-378-2524 Fax: (519) 884-3331 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] British Columbia: Angelika Dawson, Phone: (604) 870-0494 Interim Editor/Publisher: Margaret Loewen Reimer E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Board of directors: British Columbia: Henry Neufeld, Aiden S. Enns. Staff: Betti Erb, associate editor; Natasha Krahn, admin. assistant; Alberta: Brenda Tiessen-Wiens, Jan Wilhelm. Saskatchewan: Bernie Tammy Sawatzky, art director; Barb Draper, editorial assistant. Thiessen. Manitoba: Ron Loeppky, Bernie Wiebe, Paul Krahn. Advertising: Barbara Burkholder Phone: 800-316-4052 Ontario: Lloyd Koch, Mary Lymburner, Betty Dyck, Brice Balmer. Fax: (519) 884-3331 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.canadianmennonite.org

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2 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 ThisIssue

September 8, 2003 4UpClose Volume 7, Number 17 Native Church 4 Native community celebrates 5

6 Faith&Life Assembly 14 6

10 Arts&Culture Embrace community 10 Ray and Nettie Baer 10

11 InConversation Page 5 Page 24 Letters 11 Family Ties 12

14 WiderChurch Jordan and Iraq 14 Montreal peace festival 15 Kelowna fire 23

25 LocalChurch Hoffnungsfelder anniversary 25 Website preview Bridges to Benin 28 Get a preview of the next Vision for Thailand 31 Canadian Mennonite Transitions 34 before it comes in the mail. Selections are posted on our web site at www.canadianmennonite.org 36 TheChurches on the Thursday before the issue date. So you can check out the Sept. 22 issue 38 ToMorrow 32 by Sept. 18. Page

Cover: A girl prays during children’s worship time at the Mennonite World Conference assembly in Zimbabwe. Photo by Laurie Oswald.

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 3 UpClose

Winnipeg, Man. Being church, native style ix years ago, Mennonite pastor cine. He enrolled in a Bible college in Steve Cheramie Risingsun Texas where he was immediately S planted a church in Louisiana forced to get a haircut. As he went on which is deliberately “contextualized to do a masters degree, all his and enculturated.” This means that “Indianness” was driven out. the congregation seeks to honour When Cheramie Risingsun went Christ in native tribal ways, not only back to work with his people, he was in worship but in “passages of life,” challenged, somewhat mockingly, by such as healing rituals, weddings and an elder to pray for the healing of his funerals. painful back. This may not seem all that radical, “I was afraid,” Cheramie Risingsun given that Jesus was born into a said. “But I prayed and the Lord Jewish culture, and that churches healed him!” Then a chief asked him quickly took on the flavours of their to pray for the healing of his daughter contexts: Middle East, Greek, Roman and, again, the prayer was answered.

Photo by Leona Dueck Penner Photo by Leona Dueck and European. “This was the means by which God Cheramie Risingsun tells his story But it took some doing for Cheramie found me favour with my people,” he to Manitoba pastors in May. Risingsun, who not only had to concluded. At age 27, he was elected overcome the blatant racism of the chair of the tribal council where he American South but the negation of served for seven terms. Risingsun, “we haven’t brought in the his culture by the church itself. Cheramie Risingsun’s re-education drums or regalia but we do bless the He shared his story during a in terms of church life began in 1981 children, hold native weddings and pastors’ luncheon here in May, spon- at a meeting of Messianic Jews. He wakes.”—Leona Dueck Penner, with sored by Native Ministry of Mennonite saw this group being applauded for Eric Olfert Church Canada. Risingsun was here maintaining its traditional dancing to attend the Native Missiological and clothing while being affirmed for Symposium. being Christian. He began to look Winnipeg, Man. Cheramie Risingsun was a sickly differently at Indian culture and its child who kept losing weight in the relationship to following Jesus. New models hospital. Finally, his parents decided Cheramie Risingsun pastors the for native ministry to do it “our way” and he was healed Native Christian Fellowship in by traditional medicine. This experi- Gretna, Louisiana and the Poarch he title for the second Native ence sparked an ongoing interest in Community Church on a Creek North American Missiological TSymposium, held here on May native medicine. reservation in Atmore, Alabama. Both 29-31, was “Community: Native and Growing up near New Orleans, are Mennonite Church USA congrega- Christian values, realities and “where you’re either black or white tions. solutions.” I wondered if a more with nothing in between,” he experi- The missionaries who began the appropriate way of encapsulating the enced racism right from the beginning. Poarch church in 1951 were “very theme might have been “Redeeming As a pre-schooler, he remembers being traditional: patriarchal, unaccompa- Christianity.” struck on the head by a white man for nied hymn-singing, white socks....” Speakers included a wonderfully drinking out of the “whites only” Now, the third generation of Chris- diverse group of aboriginal and non- fountain. His increasing hatred of tians have said, “This ain’t us; we like aboriginal speakers from Episcopa- white people led to involvement with drums, powwows and stomp dancing.” lian, Mennonite, Alliance and Salvation Army perspectives. Their alcohol and drugs. But older people still follow the audience, a mix of about 95 academ- At age 17, Cheramie Risingsun conservative ways (ways which have ics, clerics, and mission workers, heard the gospel of Jesus Christ for long ago been left behind by the responded with lively discussion. the first time. “It changed my life,” he mother churches but “they didn’t come Mennonite speakers were Steve said simply. But the onslaughts on his to tell us things had changed”), so the Cheramie Risingsun, Cornelius personhood and culture continued. younger generation moves slowly out Buller and Jonathan Dyck. As a Christian, he was taught to of respect for their elders. It was important to review some of forsake tribal spirituality and medi- For example, said Cheramie the disasters in Christianity’s

4 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 UpClose

Matheson Island, Man. Native community celebrates centennial Sunday morning worship scripture readings, service led by long-time Native prayer and a A Ministries workers Edith and responsive reading. Neill von Gunten and attended by over There were a 100 people was one of the main events number of sponta- at the Matheson Island community’s neous testimonies centennial celebration during the first at the service. weekend in August. Several people The service, held in a tent beside the commented on how Matheson Island chapel, was attended significant Native by local residents as well as guests Ministries person- from as far away as the United States nel had been in and the Northwest Territories. Many their lives. Trudie of the guests had grown up on Unrau from Matheson Island, a community of 130 Winnipeg, who Photo by Larry Kehler people. Others had worked there as with her husband Girls from Matheson Island perform action songs they teachers or mission workers. Jake were the first learned at their summer camp, while Neill von Gunten At the community’s request, the von Native Ministries participates in the background. Guntens led worship and delivered the workers at meditation at the service. There was Matheson Island, talked movingly Matheson Island, Pine Dock and lively singing by the congregation and about how much she had been shaped Riverton came together for the annual special music by family groups and by aboriginal people and their culture. children’s camp. This event, led by individuals. Dorothy Crate Settee She said she considers herself to be Edith and Neill von Gunten, was played a small drum as she sang “part Indian.” staffed by local people and a youth “Amazing Grace” in Cree, bringing A week before the centennial group from Berne, Indiana. This might tears to many eyes. Several former celebration, the worship tent was the be the last year this camp is held Native Ministries workers led in venue in which 55 children from because of Mennonite Church Cana- da’s recent cutbacks to Native Minis- tries. The von Guntens, who have served in Native Ministries since 1976, were invited by the community to compile a interaction with North America’s resurrection (of) story.” His thesis was history book about Matheson Island. It indigenous peoples, including the that between the propositional truths of resulted in the production of a 620- church’s alliance with colonialism and fundamentalism and the “accept every- page book entitled, From Paddles to residential schools. But the focus of the thing” relativism of liberal theology, there Propellers: The History of Matheson symposium was on the possibilities of must be a way of presenting the gospel Island, a Fishing Community. This the Christian message in native society. that communicates with native culture. very attractive book came off the press Keynote speaker Mark McDonald, an “Hope for a truly aboriginal Christian aboriginal and Episcopal Bishop of spirituality lies in placing the gospel just in time for the celebration. Alaska, emphasized that the story as the first thing,” said Aldred. On Sunday, shortly after the service, foundational resonance between the “Could not a resurrected gospel story an aboriginal person gave Neill and truth of Christianity and that of function as the story of Christian Edith an eagle feather and quietly told aboriginal understandings creates aboriginal people?” them, “You are part of us.” immense potential for the gospel to Randy and Edith Woodley, of Cherokee People in the community expressed sweep through aboriginal society. There and Shoshone heritage, proposed a new concern about the future of the church is almost a sense of a dam about to approach to native ministry—adaptable, now that the pastoral position has break, with the dam being the resist- biblical, respectful and non-denomina- been cut by Mennonite Church ance created by the sordid history of the tional. Based in Alabama, they train Canada. Mention was made at the church’s interaction with native society native leaders for ministry. and the cultural barriers that cause McDonald reminded us that “the worship service of the many positive Christianity to be seen as “the white barrier to the harvest is largely in the things that had happened in the lives man’s religion.” hearts of those who are trying to bring of Matheson Island people because of Ray Aldred, a Cree consultant with the gospel. The gospel zone is growing!... Native Ministries personnel. The seeds the Alliance Church, issued a challenge The Navaho are coming to Jesus! The of faith in Christ have been planted that seemed to resonate with Cree are coming to Jesus! The Blackfoot and have grown.—From report by Mennonite experience in his paper, “The are coming!”—Eric Olfert Larry Kehler

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 5 Faith&Life

Sharing gifts in suffering and in joy Each day at the Mennonite World Conference assembly in Zimbabwe focused on a different continent and a different aspect of the theme, “Sharing gifts in suffering and in joy.” For more reports, see pages 16-22.

Asia Day: Christ, not despairing in any situa- tion,” he said. Christians are called to Joy amid suffering experience the mysteries of the Shouts of “hallelujah!” rang in the worship hall on Asia Day, fellowship of Christ’s suffering. August 12. Ambrocio Porcincula of the Philippines urged the “There are things that cannot be audience to add its voices to his high-volume preaching. known apart from suffering for “Let us joyfully celebrate life in Jesus,” he said. The joy he Christ’s sake,” he said. spoke of was accompanied by an awareness of suffering. Catholic archbishop Pius Ncube “Hundreds of millions of people around the world live brought greetings to the assembly. Ambrocio without hope, without peace,” he said. “The suffering is so Zimbabwe was once the second richest Porcincula of great that I don’t think you people from Europe, from country in Africa, trailing only South the Philippines Canada and North America, can understand it.” Africa, he said. Now there is starva- prays after The theme of Asia Day was “Celebrating life amidst tion. preaching on suffering and violence.” “God is teaching us a lesson not to Asia Day. Some of the world’s suffering, Porcincula said, is due to waste the gifts he has given us.... We corrupt political struc- will overcome, because as Christians tures. But sometimes we are people of hope.”—From report people’s suffering is due by Paul Schrag to their own sin—when people chase after false Europe Day: gods, when selfishness Bearing fruit rules. “When society loses its Europe Day began with singing led by conscience, it is only a the International Choir, with songs matter of time before you from European countries. Ruthild Foth pay the consequences,” he of Germany was recognized for said. God’s judgment attending 10 consecutive Mennonite teaches us the wages of World Conference assemblies. sin, but “God’s ultimate The Bible study, based on John 15:1- goal is our redemption.” 17, was conducted in French by Hendro Soeradi of Claude Baecher and Marianne Indonesia told of healing Goldschmidt of France. Although they a split in the Indonesian come from close to where Anabaptism Mennonites’ GITJ was born, that is no guarantee of conference. The group quality fruit, Baecher said. Every split in 1996, but in 1999 generation must learn from Jesus to reconciliation was accom- bear fruit. plished and relationships Referring to Isaiah 5, Baecher said were restored. God was looking for justice and all he Shant S. Kunjam of heard was the voice of suffering. India presented the Goldschmidt continued with the image morning Bible study on of Jesus as the vine. The sap runs from Philippians 3:10-16. the vine through the branches, creat- Philippians is a book of ing a solidarity between Jesus and his rejoicing, he said. followers. “Rejoicing means Baecher played on the word menoo being fully anchored in (Greek for “remain”), used 11 times in

6 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 Faith&Life

John 15. He emphasized the impor- tance for Menoonites to remain in Jesus so that our fruit will menoo, remain. Remaining in Jesus results in joy, and love is the fruit of the joy that is shared—the sap that flows east and west, north and south. Fernando Enns from Germany brought the evening message, based on Ephesians 6:10-20. The state of the church in Europe and in Bulowayo is similar to that of the church in Ephesus, he said. It was a time of uncertainty, gathering and orientation. The church needs to put on the armour of God to fight inner battles, but also the battles of terror, war, starvation, corruption and torture. “The word of God appears to be the audience, flinging seeds into the crowd to reiterate the International only weapon of the church which is message: all Christians are expected to sow the seeds of the Choir members suitable for attack,” he said. But it is gospel wherever they go. Herbert Nkaso not the church’s sword, it is the The theme for Latin America was “In Christ we suffer of Zambia, Agus Spirit’s sword. He also encouraged the with hope and celebrate with joy.” Setianto of church not to neglect the rest of the Rafael Stábile described the context in which the church Indonesia and armour: the belt of truth—the key to ministers in his country. Amos Lopez of reconciliation; the breastplate of “Argentina is in ruins because of corruption at all levels of Cuba sing on righteousness—working for justice; government, including justice,” he said in the morning opening night of the shoes of peace—overcoming evil service. “Unemployment is at 15 percent. In this dark the assembly. with good; the shield of faith—“the picture the church is light and salt and is giving its wit- trust that God’s possibilities do not ness.” end where ours do.” Ofelia Garcia, a pastor in Mexico, offered a litany of Enns ended with two challenges: to miseries in her context. be the church at home, and to work “In Mexico City, half live in poverty,” she said. “The weight together with the worldwide church, of external debt inherited from generation to generation sharing our convictions of peace. destines us to underdevelopment and dependence [on other Hansuli Gerber of Switzerland countries]. Latin America can feel in solidarity with many in issued a third challenge—to find a way Africa.” of sharing between churches in the But hope is also emerging amidst the suffering. Felix north, where there are resources and Rafael Curbelo celebrated some recent changes in Cuba. programs, and churches in the south, “All missionaries had to abandon the country in 1960,” he who have ideas and human resources. said. “We were bereft of any leaders.” Then in 1985 a revival Perhaps a percentage of the each broke out among Brethren in Christ churches. “We went dollar spent on reconciliation in the from 200 members to 2,000 in 81 congregations today.” north could be sent to a similar project The Mennonites in the Chaco region of Paraguay de- in the south.—Susan Brandt scribed the hope that their radio ministry offers to eight language groups. Ferdinand Friesen-Bartel described how a Latin America Day: man, whose wife had been assassinated, travelled 200 kilometres to meet the manager of the radio station because Suffering with hope he wanted to experience the kind of family life he heard The silent skit was jarring. A Latin described in a program. American family was sitting down to Garcia, who preached during the closing service of the day, dinner when armed men broke into challenged the global family to become more aggressive in the house and killed the father. ministering to those who suffer. Several scenes later, the impoverished “Why has the Anabaptist church, with such a rich theol- family found its way into the embrace ogy of peace, not been able to permeate the world with a of a loving congregation. The story greater impact?” she asked. “If we want to find Christ today, ended with the new Christians it will be within the community of God’s kingdom that sharing the gospel with others. interprets the words and shares the bread.”—Everett J. Thomas The actors then moved through the Continued on page 8

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 7 Faith&Life North America Day: Africa Day: Gift of unity Rich in gifts “The gift of unity in Jesus Christ is what we are celebrat- “What we have, we give.” This theme ing,” said Mary Anne Isaak, speaker on North America Day. set the tone for Africa Day. Philip “We are a people from 65 different countries...but in Christ Okeyo, bishop from Kenya, noted that we are one body.” Isaak is a Mennonite Brethren pastor Africa is full of paradoxes—rich in from California. culture but with many refugees and The participants much poverty, rich in minerals; and on this day, ranging rich in love. from a variety of Several of the speakers asked in singers to Canadian different ways, “Can anything good youth doing drama, come from Africa?” As the day pro- reminded us of the gressed, it became clear that the day’s theme, “Sharing African church has many gifts to offer gifts, receiving gifts.” the global church. Songs included a The day climaxed with a challenge traditional spiritual by Siaka Traore of Burkina Faso, who performed by a multi- built on the proverb: “A guest should ethnic choir formed not try to judge the value of a chicken just that morning, offered to him.” In his culture, a host and an impromptu gives a chicken to a guest who then performance by returns it to have it cooked for supper. A skit on Latin members of a Cheyenne tribe. Traore challenged the global church to America Day In his message, Lindsey Robinson, Lancaster Mennonite accept the gift of the African chicken depicts armed Conference minister, contemplated Paul’s second letter to without judgment, without weighing men breaking the Corinthians, in which the apostle most transparently it, and without comparing it with its into a house. expresses his struggles with the church. own chickens. His challenge received Paul was prodding the community to appreciate one other resounding applause. as gifts, said Robinson. “Giving ourselves to each other, Worship, led by choirs from Zimba- sharing with each other, praying with each other, encourag- bwe, Zambia and the Congo, included ing each other, and willing to lay down our lives for each a variety of African music. The congre- other—all become a base for the powerful witness of God’s gation loved the songs that encour- grace.” In fact, congregations could become mentors to other aged full body participation, emphasiz- congregations by their obedience to God. ing the point made by a Kenyan, “We As if to emphasize this, Robinson thanked the Zimba- use our whole bodies to praise the bwean church for its work in overcoming the many obsta- Lord.” cles to hold this world assembly. That note drew thunderous The morning Bible study on Romans applause and many “amens.” 5:1-5, led by Thuma Hamukang’andu, As brothers and sisters facing a technologically advanced bishop from Zambia, encouraged age in an ever-expanding global village, we need to continue participants to be sure of their identity to trust God as the source our lives. We must trust God to and relationship with God, because deliver us from the greed of self-sufficiency and covetous- you can only give what you know you ness, Robinson concluded. He reminded us that we know of have. As Christians we are all accept- God’s goodness only because God became poor. able before God. We all can give and Harriet Sider Bicksler, an American born in Bulawayo to rejoice, even in suffering. missionary parents, offered childhood memories of people Alemu Chekole of Ethiopia told of and ministries in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Bicksler was losing his sight at age 8 because of revisiting many of these places as the leader of an Assembly severe eye infections. He was one of Scattered group. the first students in a school for the Mary Oyer, who has led singing at previous assemblies, blind run by Mennonite missionaries . directed the morning singing. Oyer, who now uses a cane, He went on to become a high school quipped that she looks forward to directing again at the teacher. He challenged participants to next assembly, even if she has to use two canes to get there. give all—whatever one has—to God. Ken Hoke, a representative from the North American In a workshop, Nzash Lumeya of Brethren in Christ churches, recognized Barbara Nkala, Congo, who teaches at Mennonite conference hostess, for her consistent encouragement. Hoke Brethren Biblical Seminary in Califor- then encouraged participants to look at those around them nia, identified three mission frontiers and name the gifts they offer.—Ron Ross in Africa: the migration of people, the

8 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 Faith&Life

growth of world religions (especially from Harrisonburg, Virginia, described the text as “one of traditional religion and Islam), and the early pages in a family album” which describes “who the intersection of poverty and AIDS. we’re not...those who carry on silly or suggestive conversa- He concluded with a question: What tions, people who are greedy, people who get drunk, people colour of skin does a missionary have? who are sexually immoral.” Churches in Africa and in North Heisey also reminded the congregation of major efforts of America still think the answer is the week, including a set of core convictions, a new global “white.” mission network and the work of the Peace Council. The evening worship included a “While we work on our faith statements...carry out our footwashing service between Africans evangelism efforts...work for justice and peace in the world,” and people of the African diaspora. she concluded, “we can be sure that everyone who is found in The Africans asked for forgiveness for our family album needs to be there.” not protecting their people from the Ethel Sibanda, who led the Zimbabwe hosts’ prayer slave trade. The Africans of the committee, described how they blessed the assembly site. diaspora extended forgiveness. To- “We wanted to make the fairgrounds holy ground,” gether they expressed the desire to Sibanda said, “so towards noon we walked the streets, serve one other and the Lord together. touched every building, cleansing it for the presence of the In the evening sermon, Traore Lord. We prayed over the sticks of firewood that were cut for identified the wide range of gifts cooking our food. At the end of the day we declared before Africa has to offer. He quoted a the Lord that this was holy ground.” proverb that reverberates through The firewood may have also blessed the food. Outgoing African cultures: “Because we are, I MWC president Mesach Krisetya, from Indonesia, suggested am.” This is the gift of community. He that the meals were a miracle. identified the gift of gratitude to North “We had a lot of miracles during the week,” Krisetya said Americans who came to share the good as he bade farewell after six years as president. “Jesus fed news of Jesus Christ with Africa. 5,000 people. MWC, with the help of Christ Jesus, was able Africa offers the gift of human re- to feed 7,000.” sources to share the gospel. It has Danisu Ndlovu, Brethren in Christ bishop who was spiritual life in abundance and the gift elected vice-president of MWC’s General Council, thanked of time for human relations. all the internationals for coming to “share in our suffering. With the Africa African cultures value hospitality, a There has never been a Christian conference in Bulawayo Day slogan still gift that was much in evidence that brought so many people, so many tribes and so many on the stage, a throughout the week.—Arli Klassen colours. This is a taste of heaven.”—Everett J. Thomas woman prepares for communion and Keith Regehr These reports were written for Meetinghouse, a Mennonite Brethren in Christ editors’ group. before the World Day: concluding Sunday morning Banquet of gifts service. The assembly closed on August 17 with World Day. The three-hour worship service was a banquet of stories, songs and testimonies from five continents. At times it became a raucous celebration of the miracles that allowed the gathering to happen in Bulawayo. At the end, a solemn communion service had 7,500 participants break- ing bread together. “We are just completing a week that many people call a family reunion,” said new MWC president Nancy Heisey. “What makes us ‘family’ and how will our identity shape the way we live in the world?” Drawing from Ephesians 5, Heisey,

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 9 Arts&Culture

How to be an embracing church Will Schirmer, Reaching Beyond the In his last three chapters, Schirmer Mennonite Central Committee admin- Mennonite Comfort Zone, Cascadia, offers practical ideas for moving istrator had to do with styles of 2003. forward, for positioning ourselves to communicating. A Russian Mennonite “reaching out beyond the familiar.” volunteer couldn’t communicate what his book looks at the vital ques- Again, through anecdotes and experi- really mattered to him without tion of how to create an embrac- ence, he suggests some innovative bringing his passion to the task, T ing Christian community without ideas to help our congregations waving his arms and raising his voice. being exclusive Schirmer speaks as an become more truly missional. His Swiss Mennonite “boss” was “outsider” finding his way into the Schirmer writes in an easily under- totally uncomfortable in that mode Mennonite community, specifically the stood and often challenging style. At and repeatedly put off any discussion Swiss-American branch of that times I had to resist becoming defen- until the volunteer could “calm down community. sive. Discussion questions at the end and be reasonable.” The volunteer Using personal anecdotes, Schirmer of each chapter help with self-exami- wasn’t interested in a low-key, “boring” effectively explores stereotypes in both nation and finding meaning for our discussion, and communication didn’t directions (Mennonite and non- church. happen. Similar dynamics have Mennonite) and what it means to be a As a Canadian of Russian happened around many an MCC “good” Christian. A useful discussion Mennonite background, I found Board table. of the overlapping circles of “belong- Schirmer’s book unintentionally If we can get past Schirmer’s ing” that characterize our lives leads demonstrating his central concern. His somewhat “exclusive” analysis, his into an exploration of how family, unspoken assumption that all challenges can be extremely useful for church and Christian community “fit.” Mennonites are like his Swiss-Ameri- us to ponder.—Eric Olfert Schirmer pulls no punches, offering can brethren creates a slight barrier The reviewer is Mennonite Church Canada a sometimes “bitingly helpful” critique for a reader like me. Let me illustrate. Witness Missional Formation and Partnership of how Mennonites “do” community. One of my personnel problems as a facilitator for Saskatchewan.

Publishing note Tribute to a marriage Spanish Bible study These life-sized statues of Nettie for women and Ray Baer stand in the entrance to their garage in A Spanish Bible study for women on Kitchener, Ontario. Ray made the theme of hospitality is now them shortly after their marriage available online in an easily-printable in 1968. Now, at age 81, Ray is in booklet form. In Bread to Strengthen a nursing home, blind and the Heart, Heidi Regier Kreider offers bedridden. Nettie comes to feed activities, Bible study and closing him breakfast every morning. prayers in short lessons designed for Arnold Meyers, Ray’s friend and conversation partner for 70 years, women’s groups. They were translated recently got Ray to talk about the into Spanish by Zulma Prieto. A statues. Ray learned sculpture by second series of lessons on Philippians reading books, along with trial is also available online. These re- and error, he said. He began these sources are offered by Mennonite plaster of paris figures with a Women USA and Canadian Women in wood backbone frame, shaping Mission at: the figures with styrofoam www.MennoniteWomenUSA.org/ stuffing. Chicken netting holds BSG.asp.—Mennonite Women release the final layer of plaster in place. The figures are painted and sealed with urethane. The facial Take note! expressions gave him the Canadian Mennonite has greatest satisfaction. “Just think a new e-mail address: of the artistic skill and patience,” [email protected] said Meyers. “He is still very pleased with his artistic achieve- ment.”—From report by Arnold Meyers

10 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 Art&Culture InConversation

Letters who aims to disrupt and destroy one’s Need joint assembly spiritual life and testimony. with USA Virus—information put in by a hacker that spreads like an infectious disease. Apparently the “Welcome Table” theme Letters express the opinion of the for the 2003 Mennonite Church USA writer, not necessarily those of The virus of sin unchecked does Canadian Mennonite or the church. similar damage to one’s spiritual life convention includes some major We publish as many as space permits, and witness for Christ. restrictions (Aug. 4, page 16). Canadi- unless they attack individuals or Upgrade—to improve the speed and ans are not expected and don’t appear become too repetitious. Letters are capacity of one’s computer—an to be wanted as planning partners. edited for length and style. This ongoing process as technology is This U.S. group seems to have so section is meant to provide opportu- improved. Spiritual growth is also an much agenda of its own that it doesn’t nity for discussion and discernment. ongoing process, achieved by prayer, want to consider a Joint Executive worship, Bible study, meditation, proposal to meet with its Canadian fellowship and service. brothers and sisters. Legal not Main Frame—A master computer with As a member of Mennonite Church same as right a large data bank that can be accessed Canada, I am deeply disturbed and disappointed with this development. I I am responding to a letter by Ken by those who know the password or key. The greatest data bank is the strongly urge the MC Canada General Drudge (July 14) pertaining to Board to aggressively pursue conver- Mennonite pastors marrying same-sex Bible, and the key to accessing its wisdom is faith in what Christ accom- sations with the Joint Executive couples. Do we depend on civil govern- Council and MC USA to resume ment to determine what is morally plished for us on the cross. It contains the gift of righteousness which he planning for a joint convention in right rather than God’s word? Making 2005. something legal does not always make earned for us there by paying the penalty for our sin, and the gift of the We should encourage the Youth it right. Ministry Council to continue its A marriage performed in a Holy Spirit “who will guide you into all truth,” as we study and submit to planning for a 2005 convention in a Mennonite church should be between separate location. As adults we need to a man and a woman for a lifetime God’s guidance. So, let’s get reprogrammed and meet with our church family in the commitment.—Elvin Ramer, USA. If we are serious about being one Stouffville, Ont. upgraded by “the renewing of our minds.”—Frank J. Thiessen, Winnipeg, denomination then we should nurture Man. that relationship. Unless this happens, Computer language we will permanently go our separate has spiritual parallels ways.—Ralph Lebold, Waterloo, Ont. Announcements Having earned my living by writing go after offering technical textbooks and educational Church acting like materials, I have had the opportunity In reply to “Where do you put the to use a computer, albeit with limited announcements” (June 30, page 24), I exclusive club success. I find it intriguing that much have learned to put them after the I remember distinctly the first time I of its function and terminology can be offering. With the offering of money, was told that I was going to hell. compared to one’s spiritual life. we offer ourselves and our possessions. Seated in my youth class, I listened to Some of the obvious comparisons are With the announcements we offer the the youth pastor list off all those who the following: life and work of our congregation and, would not be joining us in heaven. Insert—to add information to improve often, the larger church. I was hidden then, just beginning to existing information. One minister I knew put the an- understand my sexuality, but I had Delete—to discard unnecessary or nouncements in that context. For always known that I was different erroneous information. example, “We all know that the organ from my peers. As gays and lesbians Save—to put desirable information needs to be repaired. The board will were included in the condemned list, I into memory. meet next Wednesday to deal with received my first indication of how the These three are very important to that matter, among others.” His church viewed me. Fortunately, a the “renewing of one’s mind” in the method increased awareness of the loving family and a connection with spiritual life. congregation’s activities and who it God not dependent on the human Hacker—one who accesses programs was that made decisions. limitations of the church, kept me by illegitimate means in order to —M. Elizabeth Chapman, London, from sinking into self-hate. disrupt normal operations. The Ont. Throughout the years, I have felt ultimate hacker, of course, is Satan varying degrees of disappointment,

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 11 InConversation

sadness, frustration and anger in Opposition to the marriage of two Church must speak to regard to the church. I have left and I women or two men is merely an state about poverty have come back, wondering how it is extension of the argument against that so many people can make blanket gays and lesbians being members or I’ve been reading the newspaper with proclamations about my relationship leaders in the church. Regardless of interest these past few weeks. with God without knowing me. the rationale—biblical, understanding Churches in Canada have made public The discussion over the word of sexuality and marriage—this statements about government policy, “marriage” has rekindled a debate position is based in a belief that not all and people are debating whether the long present in the church. Who is are equal, that not all are the creation church has any place commenting on worthy? The details change, but the God has planned, that gay and lesbian public debates. theme remains the same. persons are not worthy. As Mennonites, we know that we For years, believers have gone to This leaves me saddened for the cannot obey the state blindly and must their Bibles and plucked out of histori- church. The loss through this division, act on our conscience. In times like cal, cultural, and textual context this exclusion, is tremendous. I know, these we need to remember why we verses to cast at those who do not fit however, that regardless of what the witness to the state. We speak to their image of a proper Christian. Mennonite Church decides about gays government because we love people Women, people of colour, divorced and lesbians in the church, I have a with God’s love, and we cannot toler- folks, and now gays have been targets sincere and truthful connection to God ate injustice. of those who wish to keep the church and a sacred commitment with my How is our love convicting us in under their control. These Christians partner. these times? I work in a church adopt the divine position of deciding The church can deny it, but thank- building that also houses a foodbank. under what conditions others are fully God’s love is much stronger than Three times a week women and men worthy of God’s love and permitted to human statements.—Lisa Wenger, who live in poverty file through for express this within the church. They Kitchener, Ont. two bags of groceries. They come with act as though the church were an children in tow. This parade of des- exclusive club. peration is happening in every city in our country.

What if peace prevailed in our families? person as precious regardless of age, This year, the family “reunioned” in the through marriage by proposing an end to creed, health, race and status? rolling green richness of Lancaster the swift (sometimes dagger-like) teasing What if we softened our aggressive County, Pennsylvania. My mom, siblings rife to our gatherings. Amid protests, he self-centredness to listen exquisitely to and their partners and offspring gather reflected on his experience with a conflict each other? What if we overrode our annually, an event that requires more resolution organization. timid passivity to voice clearly our organization, cheerful flexibility and “They’ve made a commitment to avoid unique contribution? good will than we usually possess. Still, What if we spoke the truth honestly we find a way through the conflicts and from our hearts? What if we laid down commit ourselves to a similar exercise our weapons of manipulative games and next year. Family power plays? What if we used our anger My brothers’ genealogy searches led Ties to address our brokenness? What if we to a Quaker ancestor who emigrated stopped hitting our children? from England to Penn’s Woods in 1682. Melissa What if we worked passionately to One morning, a number of us explored Miller forge enduring relationships of justice two old meetinghouses, searching the and equality? What if we befriended cemeteries for those long-gone forebears. other families to expand our circles of Fittingly for the heirs of such a peace- support? What if we shared our bread making heritage, my family members and other resources so that other now make their church homes in the teasing because of the confusing, poten- families would know life and health? “historic peace churches” — Quaker, tially hurtful messages that are masked in What if we prayed daily for God’s Church of the Brethren and Mennonite. such interactions.” He concluded, “It limitless power to infuse our relation- Peacemaking flows through my changes dynamics—for the better.” His ships with love and forbearance, bloodlines for over 300 years, yet neither proposal nudged us to consider how our especially in those relationships where my family nor other Christians have teasing might be damaging our relation- there is conflict? applied the concept to family relations. ships. What if...peace prevailed in our I still recall the power of the first What if peace prevailed in our families? families? sermon I heard addressing nonviolence What if we drew from our Christian peace The writer, counsellor and author, operates in the family (at a Mennonite Central heritage, and educated ourselves in Family Ties in Winnipeg. This is the second Committee-sponsored conference on communication and conflict to practise column on the Mennonite Church Canada domestic violence in 1990). peace in our families? assembly theme, “What if...grace, peace and On a lighter note, my husband once What if we opened our eyes to seeing love prevailed?” challenged the family he’d acquired each other as God sees us, valuing each

12 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 InConversation

In love we ache for people who live Eriksson’s warning that a re-defini- MC Canada leaders with hunger. In love we assail politi- tion of marriage to include same-sex appear to differ on ‘grace’ cians with calls for justice. We demand couples will “significantly change the a living minimum wage, and social understanding and practice of mar- The August 4 issue carries in unique assistance and disability benefits that riage that have been held from ancient juxtaposition two issues Mennonite do not impoverish. times” is based on a false premise. The Church Canada wrestled with at its I can think of no other political issue understanding of marriage and family assembly in St. Catharines. that so demands our passion than a has evolved in significant ways ever On page 6, Henry Krause, MC rich country that pushes aside those in since ancient times! Canada moderator, asks: What need and does not feed her children. There has never been anything if...grace prevailed? Krause makes a As we choose how to speak to the static about marriage or family, thank strong case for taking the risk of state, we should always remember goodness! Abraham had problems with letting God make the decisions and for why we speak. St. John of the Cross Sarah and Hagar and didn’t exactly us to live with the consequences of reminds us, “Love is the measure by leave us with a good example. Neither such grace. He says, “As Mennonites I which we shall be judged.”—Carol is Isaac’s long servitude before being think we are grace challenged! We Penner, MCEC Minister of Peace, able to marry his true love an inspir- have a fear of being too gracious Justice and Social Concerns ing example of marriage. because we don’t know where it will Solomon with his thousand wives, the lead.” Catholic view of marriage buttressed by On page 9 is a letter on same-sex Clear same-sex position marriage to MC Canada pastors by causes dilemma Augustine’s low view of sexuality, women’s “traditional” vow of obedience Sven Eriksson. Eriksson is fearful that I appreciated Sven Eriksson’s clear to their husbands, the helplessness of a allowing same-sex marriages will put statement of the Mennonite position woman stuck in an abusive marriage— the whole concept of family into on same-sex marriage (Aug. 4). these are just a few areas in which our jeopardy. There is little of “what Unfortunately that clarity creates a understanding of marriage has changed if...grace prevailed” in his letter. dilemma because the Confession of since ancient times. Eriksson refers to the Confession of faith that leads Sven to declare same- Now our society is trying to catch up Faith article 19 to make the case that sex unions unacceptable for with the reality of a large number of “therefore it is clear that conducting or Mennonite ministers also forbids the committed, long-term, loving unions blessing same-sex marriage is outside practice of remarrying divorced involving same-sex partners who are of our understanding and practice of individuals. The confession states that no longer willing to be relegated to a marriage.” Yet when we accepted our not only is a marriage “one man and status of inferiority in our society. Confession it was with the under- one woman” but it is also “for life.” Many are faithful members of our standing that it would not be used as As a minister I performed a remar- churches and have been in their the final authority but would help us riage with the full blessing of the “unmarried” partnerships for many continue to explore what it means to congregation. Many ministers have years through no fault of their own. be children of God. done so and it would not surprise me if The debate around what to do with In Acts 10, Peter visits Cornelius in most of our congregations include such unions has the possibility of Caesarea. Contrary to Jewish under- couples who have been remarried by a becoming an ugly and divisive one. standing, he enters Cornelius’ house Mennonite minister. Mennonite churches are circling their and speaks the Gospel of peace and So the dilemma is this: Do we refuse wagons to defend the status quo. Some salvation. To Peter’s amazement, the to remarry couples? Or do our pastors are threatening to withdraw if MC Holy Spirit falls on Cornelius and his ignore the confession with regard to Canada does not stay the course. household, they are baptized, and the same-sex marriages as we have There need be no threat to marriage doors of Christianity are flung open to ignored it with regard to remarriages? here whatsoever. How can that which is Gentiles. Grace prevailed. Or do we all need to take a deep based on love, as both gay and straight But homosexuality is an abomina- breath and forbear with each other as monogamous relationships are, tion to God, according to Romans1. each congregation tries to make its threaten an institution which is set up True, but chapters 2 and 3 show all of own best way? More clarity is to celebrate loving commitments? us to be sinners and an abomination to needed.—Bruce Hiebert, Abbotsford, Rather than lament and be fearful, I God. It is here that the paradox of God B.C. challenge our leaders to help us move becomes real—his grace made it beyond a mere reiteration of outdated possible for us to become children of perspectives. We made a good begin- God. We have no right to deny anyone Marriage has never that same status. been static concept ning at the St. Catharines assembly. We need to continue the dialogue. I I find Eriksson’s perspective per- The Sven Eriksson letter to Mennonite believe that acceptance of same- plexing, hardly in line with that of his Church Canada pastors on same-sex gender marriages can open the door to moderator and even less so with Jesus’ marriages (Aug. 4) does little to move renewed stability among us, and open call to be agents of love, of grace.— Jake Nickel, Saskatoon, Sask. our churches forward on this contro- wide the window of God’s blessing on versial subject. us.—Victor Fast, London, Ont.

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Winnipeg, Man. Signs of hope in Jordan and Iraq hen you love what you do, amazed that Jordanians, after genera- respect the people you work tions of conflict, are “still willing to Wwith, and feel that you are imagine what peace would look like.” participating in a defining moment in Menno added that in Iraq, despite a country’s history, the stresses of everything, “I see a people whose bed- living in a region of conflict don’t seem rock values, characteristic hospitality, that over-whelming. In fact, life can be good humour, decency have weathered rather invigorating. it all.... The majority of the people That’s the impression you get from grieve over the pillaging and the Menno Wiebe and Deborah Fast feel Deborah Fast and Menno Wiebe who plundering” done by their own people privileged to work in the Middle have been Mennonite Central Com- after the war. East. mittee (MCC) representatives for “But they’re in a tough situation. Jordan and Iraq since August 2000. They’re not happy with the U.S. that is going well, it’s energizing; but They were in Canada this summer presence, but they don’t have many when I don’t understand what’s with their children, Sophia, 9, and options.” happening, it can be difficult. Stefan, 5, brimming with stories. When asked how they and their “Overall Jordan is quite a conducive At Charleswood Mennonite Church, children were affected by the war, environment for what MCC does. Deborah said she is “very excited” Deborah said they were grateful that There’s a benevolent government about MCC’s priorities in Jordan, MCC gave them the choice whether to relatively free of corruption, so it feels which include supporting peace and leave or to stay in Jordan. like we can actually get somewhere.” justice initiatives and partnering with “Most other outside agencies didn’t “MCC has been in the Middle East local churches. She feels energized by give their workers that choice,” she for 50 plus years,” noted Menno. “MCC the “more deliberate, forward looking said. “We never doubted that we has positioned itself well and is emphasis on partnering with this wanted to stay.... Thankfully for our recognized, respected and accepted. ancient minority church which has children, it wasn’t overly stressful.” It’s exciting to be a part of that.” roots that go back 2000 years!” Sophia asked a lot of challenging The family returned to Jordan on Menno had just returned from a trip questions about people leaving, but July 24 for another three years. to Iraq where MCC has three workers. the children’s daily routines weren’t —Leona Dueck Penner “There are so many stories I could affected that much. “Sophia only tell you about Iraq,” he said. “I could missed one day of school and some of share personal stories about meeting a their play areas were restricted.” What we should know grieving woman in Baghdad whose About half the population of Jordan only child had been killed in a bomb- are Palestinian refugees. “Living there about Iraq and Jordan ing raid; or I could talk about the gives you a sense of the turmoil, the hen asked what they would political situation; or about public uncertainty, the anger,” said Deborah. like people to know about health issues in a country where Menno added: “The majority of the WIraq and Jordan, Deborah sometimes the only treatment avail- people have experienced conflict Fast and Menno Wiebe highlighted the following: able for an illness is clean water...or I throughout their entire lives.... Life is •“There’s the issue of humaniza- could share a story of peacemaking.” on hold.” tion,” said Menno. “The Iraqis tell us: When Christian Peacemaker Team As for living “on hold” themselves, ‘We’ve been reduced to a caricature; workers were forced to leave Iraq they agree that the political tensions the focus has all been on one man, towards the end of the war, they had a affected their work, especially during Hussein, who is evil.... We want to be car accident and were taken to a the war in Iraq when meetings didn’t seen as real people, not stereotypes.’” hospital. The Iraqis did the best they happen, projects were interrupted, and •“That an ancient church exists in could with their meagre supplies to everyone was glued to the TV. Dealing the Middle East,” said Deborah. treat the injured Americans. with a North American organization in “They’re very small and they feel “That sent a peace message,” such a setting can add stress. But they their minority status [in their Muslim cultures]. But there is a concluded Menno. “These are still very still love their work. desire that Westerners acknowledge difficult days in Iraq but these kinds of “Not to say I love it every day,” their existence.” stories help to pull us through.” laughed Deborah. “In Jordan every- •Relationship building is highly In a conversation with Canadian thing you do requires a relatively important. “MCC is one of the few Mennonite, Deborah spoke about being intense human interaction.... When

14 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 WiderChurch

Montreal, Que. Lots of variety at Montreal’s first peace festival few drops of rain fell on Mon- music was a treal’s first-ever Peace Festival reminder that A on August 9 and volunteers “peace” sometimes scurried to put tarps over the thou- involves tolerating sands of dollars worth of sound different tastes in equipment. The sound man, however, music! The concert wasn’t worried. And the rain did hold continued until off until the next day, a testimony to 8:30 p.m. the prayers of the faithful. Things were The two-day peace festival (Le also busy inside festival de paix) was held at the House the House of of Friendship (La maison de l’amitié). Friendship. The It began with a community supper and gymnasium had a talk on nonviolent communication by been transformed Mary Dancilla Mukandongo, who has into an art gallery. been working at the reconciliation of Each artist had the Rwandan community in Montreal. been given an old Saturday morning the festivities window to work continued on the street with an with—the variety ecumenical worship service. The of results was Painting a mural on the wall of the House of Friendship service included music and peace-work astounding. Paint, was one of the activities during the Montreal peace sharing that crossed continents as stained glass, festival. well as denominational lines. The time papers, inks and of worship finished with a sharing of music combined to give glimpses into smaller mural that kids made to send the peace around a beautiful dove the complex reality of “peace.” to Iraq. While the children enjoyed drawn on the pavement in the middle For a modest price, a member of the painting, parents could visit and learn of the street. Eglise évangélique de St- Laurent was more about MCC. The afternoon was given over to selling Congolese food. The deep-fried The House of Friendship, Montréal young musicians. Music ranged from delicacies were much appreciated. City Mission (a United Church minis- folk to rock, to rap and back again. The Artists were also at work outside try), TANDEM (a crime prevention only condition given to the musicians painting a mural on the wall of the program) and the Centre for Restora- was that one of the songs in each set House of Friendship. Lisette Laurin, tive Justice also had kiosks to share had to be about peace. The variety of an artist in the Mennonite church, had about their peace work in the city. done the outlines previously, so anyone The festival planning committee could wander over and lend a hand to included representatives of MCC organizations that places people in the the painting. One woman from the Québec and the House of Friendship, region relatively long term,” said neighbourhood said she had always headed by Daniel Genest of the Deborah. For example, Edward Miller’s dreamed of painting a mural. Quebec Mennonite Council. Here’s to a work in Iraq is not just to coordinate Situated beside the Mennonite new Montréal tradition!—MCC aid for MCC. He’s also helping Iraqis Central Committee kiosk was a Québec release by Dora-Marie Goulet tell their stories. In part, this is to and Mylène Melançon counter the increasing feelings of division between “us” (westerners) and “them” (easterners). We can see the damage from that division happening, said Deborah. “I hope...we can keep working at ways to counter that trend of dividing the world.” To do that, MCC promotes visits and exchanges, including work teams such as Habitat for Humanity. •This is a time for sharing—not just food and aid, but each other’s stories. A Dominican priest in Baghdad told them: “Let’s begin to listen to each other, think about how we repair the events of the last 50 years.... We need to under- stand each other and begin to heal.”

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Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Assembly 14: ‘Everything we prayed for was answered’ Mennonite World attered Bible in hand, way the assembly placed people from Conference Christopher Moyo summed up 58 nations into a new Anabaptist Tthe Mennonite World Conference family portrait. This portrait had Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (MWC) assembly from a Zimbabwean’s black and brown faces in the majority, August 11 - 17, 2003 point of view. reflecting the fact that more “The spiritual food and the physical Anabaptists live in Africa than in any food both are very good,” he said. other continent, according to MWC When a man barely manages to feed statistics. his family, a full plate at a church The assembly also placed a spotlight conference is no small gift. on the Brethren in Christ Church, an Gifts large and small were ex- 18th-century offshoot of Mennonites. changed at the Zimbabwe Interna- Zimbabwe’s entire Anabaptist mem- tional Trade Fair on August 11-17 bership of 29,000 is BIC. when about 7,000 Mennonites and At worship services, the Zimba- Brethren in Christ—more than 5,000 bwean BIC women’s “church uni- of them Africans—gathered for the form”—white hats and white 14th worldwide assembly. blouses—was the dominant clothing It didn’t take long for them to make style in the crowd. the conference theme, “Sharing gifts in And the assembly gave visitors a suffering and in joy,” much more than glimpse into the lives of Zimbabweans, words. who are enduring drought, political North Americans learned about unrest and inflation calculated at 364 responses to suffering as they heard percent this year. about Zimbabwe’s food shortages. “It’s quite an honour that you are “I take my mind back into the rural willing to come and share our sor- areas, and I shed tears,” said George rows,” said Treziah Ndlovu while Nyathi, food coordinator for waiting in line for lunch. “You will Mennonite Central Committee and the witness what we experience and tell Brethren in Christ church (BIC) in others. Life is getting tougher and Zimbabwe. “We need your assistance. We need your prayers.” Africa women shared the gift of joy Worshipers hold hands while singing. as they cheered and danced up Moving to the music to the stage or decades after coming to where a Africa, Brethren in Christ Zambian choir F missionaries prohibited dancing was singing. in church. “What I A century later, worshipers at the enjoy most is Mennonite World Conference assem- the music,” said bly let the music move them. The song Nomqhele Hakuna Akaita Sa Jesu (There is no Ndlovu of one like Jesus) was the one that really got them going. It wasn’t even in the Zimbabwe. assembly songbook, but worship “Even if they leaders kept bringing it back by are singing in popular demand. another On Sunday morning, about 7,000 language, I still Anabaptists with smiles on their faces enjoy it.” turned in circles and swung their Among arms as they sang: “There is no one many good like Jesus, no one is like him. We ran things was the and ran everywhere. We went round

16 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 WiderChurch tougher each day.” The assembly’s official registration Council issues statement on Zimbabwe was more than 6,200. About 4,500 t is inappropriate to come and say ans in the face of deep distress.” Zimbabweans registered. Among the nothing about the situation in “We will carefully monitor develop- 1,800 international guests, the United IZimbabwe, said Larry Miller, ments” in the next months, concluded States had 737 participants and Mennonite World Conference execu- the statement, which pledged to Canada 254. tive secretary, to the newly elected continue advocacy for justice, food aid, Each day featured morning and General Council on August 17. Miller assistance to those at risk from HIV/ evening worship planned by people had been in conversation with church AIDS, “and fervent intercession before from a different continent. On a stage leaders over several months on God that justice will flow like a river in the Global Church Village display preparing a statement. to bring healing and hope to a weary area, groups shared their music. The Council accepted a statement land (Isaiah 58; Amos 4).” Workshops and tours were other daily that is being published as a paid The statement is signed on behalf of activities. advertisement in Zimbabwe newspa- the General Council by “Dr. Nancy Before and after the conference, pers. Heisey, President (2003-2009), Dr. called Assembly Gathered, many “As believers in God who wills the Larry Miller, Executive Secretary, and international visitors took part in well being of all, and as followers of Dr. Mesach Krisetya, President (1997- tours known as Assembly Scattered, Jesus, the Prince of Peace, we lament 2003).” visiting Anabaptist churches and situations of poverty, oppression, attractions such as wildlife parks in injustice, violence and war that exist Message to churches several African countries. in many parts of the world,” says the The Council issued a second state- Not the least of the assembly’s many statement. ment to MWC member churches blessings was the fact that it was held “Recognizing Zimbabwe’s resilient around the world. It is both a report at all. people and rich natural resources, and on Assembly 14 and a call to prayer for “The hand of God was really mighty, having experienced the warm welcome Zimbabwe. because everything we prayed for was and gracious hospitality of the hosting “Everyone in attendance was answered,” said Ethel Sibanda, a Brethren in Christ Church, we espe- overwhelmed by the ‘grace of hospital- member of the coordinating committee cially grieve and deplore the current ity’ demonstrated by the host Brethren in Zimbabwe. situation of suffering in this country.” in Christ Church,” said the statement. Overcoming obstacles was like Examples of the current situation It noted that the assembly received climbing mountains, she said. The include: greetings from 13 Christian world biggest challenges were ensuring • “The fear and brutality that result communions and international adequate security, food and fuel. “We from political oppression and conflict, organizations, representing “more felt each time God was levelling the excessive police powers and arbitrary than three-fourths of the world’s two mountains,” Sibanda said.—Paul arrests, and legislation that curtails billion Christians.” Schrag democratic expression and free The statement also noted General assembly.” Council decisions (see Aug. 25 issue • “The hardship and exploitation that and stories below). result from economic breakdown, “While it is difficult to communicate profiteering and corruption, shortages the thrill and joy of this Assembly, we and round everywhere. We searched of all kinds, unemployment and were conscious this event did not and searched everywhere. No one is endemic poverty.” belong to us alone. We were continu- like him.” • “The malnutrition and death that One way to tell that a song had ally aware of those who prayed for generated special enthusiasm was to result from a humanitarian crisis of months for the presence of God’s Spirit listen for the high-pitched “le-le-le-le- major proportions, caused by misman- and for a tranquil situation.... le!” from African women. An African agement of the economy, drought, “Join us in thanking God for the song leader urged everyone to “make massive shortages of food, medical inspiration of this occasion. Listen any sound you can think of.” He also supplies and services, and the scourge carefully to those who attended for encouraged people to wave their of HIV/AIDS.” insight into the reality of the church in Bibles over their heads. The statement goes on to list causes Africa. Invite facilitators from the In the Sunday sermon, Nancy of “great joy and deep gratitude” that Global Gift Sharing project...to explore Heisey, the new president of MWC, include: the meaning of ‘sharing gifts in said singing brings diverse people • “The commitment of all parties to suffering and in joy’ in your situation.” together. “As we are filled with the Spirit, the current mediation talks....” how do we respond? By singing!” she • “The prophetic voice of the church said. “That should come as no surprise for justice and peace and the coura- to any Mennonite or Brethren in geous role of its leaders....” Christ person here, especially not • “The tenacity, passion, endurance after this week.”—Paul Schrag and non-violent action of Zimbabwe-

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 17 WiderChurch Shared convictions any of Mennonite World ity. Conference’s member 7. We seek to Mchurches have no written live in the world confession of faith. During the assem- without conform- bly in Zimbabwe, the MWC General ing to the powers Council accepted a statement of of evil, witnessing shared convictions for study by to God’s grace by churches. The following are the seven serving others, central beliefs: caring for creation 1. God is known to us as Father, Son and inviting all and Holy Spirit, the Creator who seeks people to know to restore fallen humanity by calling a Jesus as Saviour people to be faithful in fellowship, and Lord. Nancy Heisey, new MWC president, looks on as Danisa worship, service and witness. The Council Ndlovu, bishop of the Brethren in Christ Church in Zimba- 2. Jesus is the Son of God who also agreed to bwe, gives the benediction at the closing service. showed in his life and teaching how to retain the name be faithful, and through his cross and Mennonite World resurrection redeemed the world. Conference but add a descriptive Sutjipto (Indonesia) for Asia, David 3. The church is a community of subtitle: “a community of Anabaptist- Villalta Benavides (Costa Rica) and those whom God’s Spirit calls to turn related churches.” Peter Stucky (Colombia) for Central, from sin, acknowledge Jesus Christ as Nancy Heisey of USA took over as South America and the Carribean; Lord, receive baptism upon confession president of MWC; Danisa Ndlovu, Markus Rediger (Switzerland) and of faith and follow Christ in life. Brethren in Christ bishop of Thijn Thijink (Netherlands) for 4. The faith community, under Holy Bulawayo, was named vice-president. Europe, and Naomi Unger (Canada) Spirit guidance, interprets the Bible in Elected to the executive committee and David Wiebe (Canada) for North the light of Jesus Christ to discern were Fimbo Ganvunze (Congo) and America. The term for all is six God’s will for our obedience. Joshua Okello (Kenya) for Africa, years.—From MWC release 5. The Spirit of Jesus empowers us Joren Basumata (India) and Eddy to trust God in all areas of life so we become peacemakers who renounce violence, love our enemies, seek New organization will change missions justice and share our possessions or more than 100 years, churches But the question of funding the with those in need. in North America undertook regional gatherings was a concern. 6. The faith community gathers Fmission efforts in Africa, Asia and “These gatherings will cost a lot of regularly to worship, to celebrate the Latin America. Now the churches that money,” said Chizuko Katakabe, from Lord’s Supper and to hear the Word of emerged from those efforts have their Japan. “Is it right to spend the money on God in a spirit of mutual accountabil- own identity and want to discern for such gatherings rather than on sending themselves where their mission should missionaries?” be. In addition to questions about how to Meeting in Bulawayo, representa- fund the new fellowship, its relationship tives from Mennonite World to Mennonite World Conference has not Conference churches voted to yet been clarified. Nancy Heisey, the new create a new mechanism that will MWC president, noted the Global begin to shift mission leadership to Mission Fellowship would not be similar churches in Africa, Asia and Latin to other MWC councils. America. Called the Global Mission One reason for the lack of clarity is Fellowship, the plan calls for that mission organizations often relate regional meetings on each conti- to Christian groups that are not mem- nent every three years “for encour- bers of MWC. agement, vision-sharing, network- The formation of this misson fellow- ing and cooperating in mission.” ship will change the way North Ameri- “This is a very significant shift,” can mission agencies coordinate their said Stanley Green, who chaired work. Currently, most agencies partici- the committee that created the pate in the Council of International proposal. “Now the vision for Ministries for coordination purposes. Africa, for example, will originate However, the Global Mission Fellow- in Africa and be shaped in Africa ship calls for a North American regional and then North American agencies meeting that is accountable to the Silva Nguluba of Zimbabwe carries her will need to discern how we can Fellowship.—From Meetinghouse report suitcase to the bus headed for home. participate.” by Everett J. Thomas

18 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 WiderChurch Youth Summit tackles common concerns nybody can count the number of Church Canada) seeds in an apple, but only God and Hannah Sehl A can count the number of apples of Kitchener, in a seed.” Ontario With this image, Ronald Lizwe Moyo (Mennonite welcomed delegates and other young Brethren confer- people to the first Global Youth ence). Summit. On August 7-10, over 220 During the young people from 28 countries summit, partici- gathered in Bulawayo to discuss the pants talked and challenges facing Christian young listened, prayed, people today. worshiped and Dreams of organizing a youth played together. summit began several years ago. A Continental caucus five-member committee, with one groups met each representative from each continental day to discuss the Young women enjoy worship at the Youth Summit. region, set out a three-phase plan. survey results and Phase one was a survey to discover to brainstorm about how MWC and suggestions for how to respond. Five the most pressing challenges facing local churches could help work at delegates were selected to present the young people. Over 1,500 surveys were solutions. results to the MWC General Council. completed globally. Phase two was It was fascinating to see common A high level of energy characterized gathering in Bulawayo, and phase themes emerge: employment/unem- the three days. The youth shared a three is an action phase. Of the ployment issues, violence, pluralism, sense that this event could bring about participants, 27 were official delegates: education, traditionalism in worship, positive changes. Many commented 6 from Africa, 5 from Europe, 5 from and youth feeling their voices are not that they now have a greater apprecia- Asia, 3 from North America, 8 from heard in the church. tion for belonging to a global church. Latin America. By the end of the second day, Each continental group led in The delegates from Canada were delegates had reached a preliminary worship during the summit. In the Jennifer Egan of Winnipeg (Mennonite consensus on the main issues and closing worship, Elina Ciptadi from Indonesia shared a dream she has had since childhood of making the world a better place. She asked God to use her. Peace Council works on central platform Now she was seeing her dream come he Peace Council of Mennonite forum or what it was to accomplish. true. World Conference was launched at Still, significant progress was made. Many youth share such a dream, but T the Calcutta assembly six years The first day, internationally-mixed by themselves feel powerless to make ago. This year’s meetings in Bulawayo groups of 10 people discussed the levels a difference. The Global Youth Summit continued the creation of a unified peace of relationships and the virtues of peace. provided a forum for them to express platform for member churches. On the second day, small groups broken their concerns and their commitment Since the last meeting in Guatemala down by continent considered practices to make a difference. Their concerns City in 2000, the Council had collected that might generate peacemaking. were serious and don’t have easy stories from 13 member churches that Initial meetings had come up with five illustrate the church’s peace stance. levels of peacemaking relationships: answers. But here in Bulawayo, seeds The common elements in the stories Making peace with God, within were planted. Only God knows what were used to summarize the three areas churches, with neighbours, with other amazing things might grow out of this important to developing a peace stance: Christians and faiths, within nations gathering.—Meetinghouse release by levels of relationships involved in and between nations. Wendy Janzen peacemaking, central virtues, and Groups here added peace with oneself, practices that can help develop peace- within families, and with neighbours. making in our churches. This summary Two additional suggestions were peace became a springboard for discussion. with the environment and peace with Ironically, the meeting itself demon- enemies. strated the challenges of arriving at a The reports from churches indicated unified statement. The first challenge five practices that help Christians was setting up an electronic system for become peacemakers: catechizing (faith translating the discussion. Further, even teaching), worship, prayer, Christian at this third meeting of the Peace education and global awareness.—From Council, General Council members were Meetinghouse report by Ron Ross still unsure whether to attend this

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 19 Wider AssemblyChurch 14

Precious Dladla of Zimbabwe washes the feet At top, Brethren in Christ pastor of Deusilene Ephraim Disi talks about being HIV Martins positive in a workshop on AIDS. Milhomen of Above and left, assembly partici- Brazil during a pants at worship. ceremony in which Africans apologized for their ancestors’ cooperation with the slave trade. suffering and in joy. Sharing gifts in suffering and in joy. Sharing gifts in suff

20 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 AssemblyWiderChurch14

Women sew blocks for an AIDS quilt during the assembly. It will be used for AIDS education.

Above, African women in their ‘church uniforms.’ At right, Nzash Lumeya, centre, leads prayer during the Global Mission Fellowship gathering.

Siaka Traore of Burkina Faso preaches on Africa Day. fts in suffering and in joy. Sharing gifts in suffering and in joy. Sharing gifts in

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 21 WiderChurch Feeding the 7,000 mong the many miracles at Africa 2003, surely the greatest A was the feeding of the 7,000. How does one provide two meals a day for that many people in a country with a severe food shortage, amid an economic crisis, in a kitchen lacking commerical equipment? With ingenuity, planning, an army of workers and the implacable faith of chief planner Thoko Ndlovu, who began working on the plans two years ago. Each day, assem- bly goers con- sumed 1,200 kg of mealie meal (the basis of a maize porridge called Women prepare food for 7,000 conference goers using wood fires and kettles. sadze), the beef from six to eight Ndlovu cattle, 1,200 kg of ensured that there would be enough to attend, the luxury of eating meat potatoes, 500 kg of maize. Chickens were ordered from a daily made this a special celebration. rice and 7,500 oranges or other fruit— Brethren in Christ farmer. Small But planning a menu for all these plus tonnes of vegetables and salads, market gardeners were contracted to different nationalities was the greatest juices and tea. And all cooked in grow a variety of vegetables. challenge, Ndlovu said. “We tried to gigantic cast-iron pots over open fires. Forty beef cattle, provided by the make it as simple as we can.” The food “I’ve always been positive,” Ndlovu Wanezi mission station some 80 km was from recipes developed in Ndlovu’s said. “I think it was really God’s away, were shipped live, butchered and “hobby” job catering to large functions. guidance we were able to procure that refrigerated in a city abattoir. Ndlovu As the head of a luggage manufac- food.” herself donated the reusable plastic turing company that employs 1,700 Negotiations with the grain market- utensils. people, Ndlovu is well-equipped to ing board in the northern part of the For many local participants, some of manage labour-intensive operations. country, where food is more plentiful, whom paid the equivalent of $1.00 US Nearly 120 workers were recruited from local clubs and schools, supple- mented by international volunteers. Some had the task of washingup outdoors in large tubs. Ndlovu’s two Youth staff ‘global village’ daughters took on the job of launder- he MWC assembly grounds stories, worshipped together, and ing 300 dish towels daily. included a “Global Village” of learned about Zimbabwe,” she ex- Not everything ran smoothly. The kiosksT displaying cultural artefacts from plained. “Then we set to work creating day before the assembly began, she many countries. The village was created the kiosks. We had no set plan, so we received a call saying that 100 Zam- and staffed by 23 youth stewards from 4 had to use our imaginations and trust bians had just arrived, famished from continents. each other.” a day on the bus without food. She At each kiosk, resembling a Zimba- Many youth stewards agreed that the bwean home, visitors sampled food, art highlight was building relationships started the cooking fires in her own and stories. At Latin America’s booth, with one another. yard and began to prepare a meal. youth served mate tea from Paraguay. At “We really got to know each other When a supplier failed to deliver, she the Asia booth, children enjoyed getting well,” said Alissa Bender of Ontario. often had to go into the city to find painted “tattoos.” From Africa came The group also shared challenges. things. The final day of the assembly paintings, carvings and baskets. They sometimes wished they had brought another 5,000 people for the The kiosks also served as places of clearer expectations of their tasks. They noon meal. conversation and relaxation. also faced the suffering of their Zimba- In Zimbabwe, the welcoming Woza Barbara Khumalo of Zimbabwe bwean hosts. In three weeks, two (come) was never experienced more directed the project, which began when Zimbabwe youth faced deaths in their heartily than at the table.—From the youth stewards arrived on July 28. immediate families.—From report by “The first week...we shared our life Melissa Aberle-Grasse, Malawi Meetinghouse report by Doreen Martens

22 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 WiderChurch

Kelowna, B.C. Kelowna congregation responds to tragedy he Okanagan Mountain Park fire, marvelled at the great job done by Neufeld says that the congregation is which has swept into Kelowna, countless volunteers. still able to praise God. T was on the hearts and minds of First Mennonite is standing by, “It has become abundantly clear the First Mennonite Church congrega- ready to serve food to fire-fighters if that God in his mercy, grace and love tion here on August 24 as pastor Clare called upon, and to work with is still working for our good, even in Neufeld led an “open service” of Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) the midst of this so-called tragedy,” he sharing, scripture, singing and prayer. when its strategy has been decided. said. “We are grateful for the fact that Neufeld felt that the service that MDS is planning a large-scale clean- no lives have been lost, and that the had originally been planned—as well up and restoration service for this and fire is by now considered to be 60 as a sermon he had been preparing— other areas in British Columbia, percent under control.”—Vic just didn’t feel appropriate in the including Barrier near Kamloops. Doerksen, with Angelika Dawson circumstances. Congregational leaders In the midst of the upheaval, agreed. “My hope was to create an informal Sunday September 28, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. setting where we acknowledge each Portage Avenue other as family of the faith, sit in the Mennonite Brethren Church ‘ashes of our silence,’ lament to the Invites you to the Installation with speaker 1420 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba Lord together, praise God for favours of Dr. Gerald Gerbrandt Dr. Stanley Hauerwas, granted...fears faced,” Neufeld said. “I Gilbert T. Rowe Professor of as the first President of CMU Reception to follow: thought we could readily lead each Theological Ethics at Duke At the CMU Campus, University Divinity School other in worship as we served each 500 Shaftesbury others’ emotional, spiritual, and other www.cmu.ca | 204-487-3300 needs...showing our solidarity and unity in Christ in this time of threat and suffering.” Several members spoke of being evacuated and of dealing with the Photo: Duke University drastic consequences of this unpredict- able catastrophe. Harry and Gertrude Loewen had been informed the day before that their beautiful home had been completely destroyed, along with some 68 homes in their neighbour- If you are excited about Christian post-secondary hood. Only a short distance away, the education, and want to work with a dynamic new home of Victor and Marg Doerksen team, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to was spared. apply for the position of: Over 900 forest fires have been raging in one of the driest, hottest summers on record in British Colum- Senior Development Officer bia, affecting many in the southern part of the province. Reporting to the VP Advancement, responsibilities As the fire approached Kelowna include fundraising, the annual operating fund, capital there was little time for removing projects, special events and endowments. valuables from the homes. Loewen’s Please send a resume, letter large library, for example, could not be Qualities: of intent, and brief rescued. Other church members also • Self-motivated, excellent communication skills, statement on integration of had to be evacuated, although their strong organizational skills and a commitment to faith and development homes were not damaged. The working within a team environment work. Please reply to: Doerksen family was evacuated twice, • Superb relationship building and inter-personal moving first to their children’s home Canadian Mennonite University in what seemed a safer area, only to be skills Director of Human Resources, told the next day to vacate that home. • A personal commitment to the church and the 500 Shaftesbury Blvd. The evacuation in Kelowna was a mission of CMU Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N2 massive effort, with a third of the • Professional fundraising experience would be swarkentin@cmu population, about 30,000 people, considered an asset www.cmu.ca having to leave their homes. Many

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 23 WiderChurch

Anata, West Bank Israelis and Palestinians join to rebuild homes ver the past 15 years, the by Israeli authorities. Yamani family’s homes have Five years later they had O included a tent, a shipping moved to Anata, where container and several houses demol- again Israeli authorities ished before their eyes. Hashem and tore down their house. Rabikha Yamani and their seven Desperate for a place to children currently live in a tent that live, the family moved they fashioned from steel rods, plastic into an empty shipping sheeting and corrugated tin. container. Now a Palestinian and an Israeli “The authorities came organization are supporting their to us with a warning— efforts to build a permanent home, ’You can’t stay here,’” partially through a Mennonite Central recalls Hashem. “But I Committee grant. The Israeli Commit- didn’t leave. I had no tee Against House Demolitions and other place to go.” the Jerusalem Center for Social and One day while he was Economic Rights, a Palestinian working as a tile maker, organization, are building the family a “people came and told new home in Anata, believed to be the me that soldiers were MCC Photo by Ed Nyce prophet Jeremiah’s home town. surrounding our con- Fred Schlomka (left) of the Israeli Committee “The Israeli volunteers who come tainer. I went right Against House Demolitions assists Palestinian here to help on our house are so away—and there was the Salim Shawamreh, whose home has been de- important,” says Hashem. “They give container, being de- stroyed by Israeli security forces four times. my children a different picture of stroyed. Imagine watching that, and manity, to see that and not be able to Israelis than that of the soldiers.” you can’t do anything about it. Your do anything.” In 1987, the Yamani’s house in wife is thrown over there, your kids They moved in with his wife’s family Yatta, south of Hebron, was destroyed are screaming—it destroys our hu- while Hashem constructed their current tent. The Yamani family’s story is not uncommon here. Israeli authorities accuse the residents of not having proper building permits “We want to get permits,” says Salim Shawamreh, who has had four homes destroyed. “I tried three times for my house, and was told ‘no’ each time. The second time they told me that it’s not possible because ‘your land is on a slope.’ Jerusalem itself is on a moun- tain! I can’t build because I’m on a slope?” Much of the land where Israel is demolishing houses is outside its legal, pre-1967 war boundaries. Whether or not the new house will last is unknown. Hashem and ICAHD were unable to obtain permits, but

Photo by Ed Nyce These Palestinian children participated in a summer day camp which Mennonite they consider rebuilding a form of Central Committee helped to sponsor. The 25 camps, held July 1-20, involved nearly nonviolent resistance. Hashem is 3,000 children, many from the Khan Younis refugee camp in the Gaza Strip. The encouraged that Palestinians and camps, organized by the Culture & Free Thought Association, a partner organization Israelis are working together to of MCC, began with a street carnival and parade. Camp activities included art, rebuild his home. music, dancing and sports activities. When a main road was reopened by the Israeli MCC is contributing $28,000 this Defense Forces, camp directors took the children swimming in the Mediterranean. year to help rebuild Palestinian The camps also provided a forum for the children to analyze their lives under homes.—MCC release by Ed Nyce occupation. MCC provided $10,500 toward this project.—From MCC release

24 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 LocalChurch

Mayfair, Sask. Hoffnungsfelder churches celebrate 75 years he Mayfair Mennonite church Alvin Wiebe. A was filled to capacity on the Hoffnungsfelder T morning of July 26 for a service of history book, hymn singing. It was the start of a compiled under two-day celebration of the 75th Marlene Mar- anniversary of the three tens’ leadership, Hoffnungsfelder congregations: was available for Mayfair, Rabbit Lake and Glenbush. sale. Each church During the afternoon, the church had also pre- yard in Rabbit Lake was the location pared a display for a picnic of watermelon and of historic rollkuchen. Guests took the opportu- photographs. nity to walk through the well-kept On Sunday cemetery while remembering the morning, Rabbit pioneer families. Pete Penner made Lake Hall was coffee the old-fashioned way by boiling the venue for

Photo by Naomi Unger water in a giant outdoor cooker and worship. The People pack the Mayfair church on Saturday morning to then brewing coffee in cream cans. mass choir and begin the 75th anniversary celebrations. Supper was held at the Glenbush by a mostly church for more than 200 people. A youth orchestra provided special history began, there was the long memorial garden with flowers brought music. Our theme was stones, spiritual history of the First Nations people. in memory of loved ones added beauty and memorial. People had been asked These stones symbolize our responsi- to the front of the church. More than to bring stones for a display and to bility to promote healing and under- 60 people showed up for choir re- write what its significance was. standing. hearsal after supper with conductor Dave Neufeld of Herschel, who Some of the stones represent that Vic Peters of Calgary. A sing-along in participated in the Hoffnungsfelder which is needed for strong churches the church yard followed, to the preaching rotation in the 1980s, gave and godly lives: faithful prayers, and sounds of guitar, mandolin and the morning message. God’s mercy for our failures. If the autoharp. “Every stone has a story,” he said, “of results are success and affluence, it is A huge, wooden map of Mennonite such things as history, loss, challenges, entirely because of God’s blessings. homesteads—both of early settlers beauty, success, choices, hard work, Therefore, Neufeld stressed, our and current members—had been determination and miracles.” Neufeld celebration must be done with grati- prepared by Herman Klassen and reminded us that before our short tude and humility. Don Unger acknowledged all those who were present at the founding of the Hoffnungsfelder church. The afternoon featured mainly storytelling. Hugo Martens of Chicago, who hadn’t been back here for 50 years, said that his 96-year-old mother told him he must attend this celebra- tion and report back to her. Carrie Dueck, granddaughter of Bishop Daniel Loewen, spoke of how inspiring it was to listen to her grandfather’s stories and to meet people who knew him. Thanks to local volunteers for making this celebration the good and God-honouring event that it was. The memorial garden at the Glenbush church includes window frames from the —Naomi Unger original church building.

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 25 Canadian Mennonite Yellow Page

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Didsbury, Alta. Bergthal church celebrates 100 years he Bergthal Mennonite Church tion. This body has been blessed each person as we look to God to here celebrated 100 years of faith through disagreements, changes, continue working in us and through Ton July 25-27. The church healing, learning and many calls to us.—Diane Jonson grounds became a beehive of activity ministry and missions. That which has as campers, friends and family began not divided has made us stronger. to assemble Friday evening. Thanks be to God! People shared joys and tears as they In the afternoon, Dave Epp provided Coming — O ctober 1 perused the excellent pictorial display an informative cemetery tour. This assembled by Kathy Peters. Vintage concluded with the unveiling of a vehicles, machines, hymnbooks and memorial stone cairn with brass Bibles were also on display. By Satur- sculpting crafted by Eldon Neufeld. It day supper the crowd had swelled to commemorates the lives of Abraham over 450 people. and Elizabeth (Henrichs) Neufeld, A highlight of the Saturday evening Gerhard and Helena (Wiebe) Neufeld program of music and praise was an and Jacob C. and Katharina (Hiebert) alumni choir of nearly 80 voices. All Neufeld. ages contributed to the celebration— In May, the church celebrated the particularly moving was an renovation of the basement into intergenerational children’s story inviting Sunday school and meeting written by Joanne Peters and assisted rooms. Fundraising for the project by Denise Derksen and Lorna Brown. included a “parable of the talents” in The Sunday morning service which people signed up for a $10 attempted to summarize 100 years in talent to tend for the basement fund. 2 hours. Past leaders were recognized Later, people shared their stories. and Lydia Derksen was presented May the spirit of this time follow Historical novel set on the frontier with flowers for her 53 years of service (1810-1861). The murder of an Amish as pianist/organist. Henry Georzen baby goes unsolved for more than 50 years presented historical vignettes. Plan your giving! and unsettles the pioneers and their Former pastors Dave Letkemann, Norman Bergen, Menno Epp and communities. Wonderfully written. Werner Froese reflected upon God’s movement through Bergthal, and on the richness of the diversity and unity www.giftforlife.ca that has characterized this congrega- 800/762-7171 • www.goodbks.com

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 27 LocalChurch

St. Jacobs, Ont. Building bridges to Benin t. Jacobs Mennonite Church has After a year of been building bridges to planning and S Benin over the past years. The fundraising, five first bridge was constructed when people from Nancy Frey Yoder went to work at the St.Jacobs—Dave Benin Bible Institute (BBI) in and Lisa Carr Pries, Cotonou. Her letters and pictures were Kim Freeman, and a constant link to life in Benin. Doug and Gloria In 1996, the school requested help in Shantz—were ready erecting a building. In 1997 Bob and to spend two weeks Sue Shantz of St. Jacobs joined a this summer group of people to help make this a introducing the first reality, building a second bridge. Vacation Bible In 2001, Marcellin Danhoundo, School in Benin. administrator of BBI, bridged the gap The curriculum between countries by visiting Canada. was Loving God, While in St. Jacobs, he observed part of the series Vacation Bible School in progress. He from Faith and Life was very excited and wondered if this The St. Jacobs group that taught Vacation Bible School Press. The first program could be introduced, through in Benin this summer, from left: Dave and Lisa Carr week, beginning on BBI, to Benin. Pries, Doug and Gloria Shantz and Kim Freeman. July 22, was spent In 2002, Nancy Frey Yoder and her familiarizing about family came home to visit and she supplies and raised money to purchase 30 leaders with this method of teach- discussed the possibility of VBS. The and translate a curriculum. ing. Eager to find new ways to nurture St. Jacobs Community VBS collected Marcellin’s vision began to take shape. their children’s faith, they soaked up the ideas. They asked many questions about
how children can learn while “playing”
and were intrigued by the information  
about faith development. When they
 
tried the activities, they realized that
“doing is understanding.”
The second week, from July 28 to     August 1, the Beninese leaders observed and helped the Canadian group lead 100 Beninese children !  
"  
#  


through the program. The enthusiasm  $ %
! 

   and gratitude of the leaders and  
&'(
 #) 
children was overwhelming. 
 

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 *

So much learning happened in those #

    
#
two weeks. So many connections were made. And the bridge building contin- ( 
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ues. This year we are again raising #%

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  )
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money for Benin. This fall we hope to #

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have Augustin Ahoga, president of the
BBI Board, come to visit us. And who knows what other opportu-
      nities God may have in store for us as



 N 




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we seek to span the distances to build



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relationships and do God’s work.
—Gloria Shantz

                     

28 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 LocalChurch

Rosthern, Sask. Skits and music add to Rosthern celebrations osthern Mennonite Church celebrated “100 years of God’s Rgrace” on July 4-6. People came from other provinces and many places in Saskatchewan to help the congrega- tion celebrate its centennial. The motto for the event was “From the fullness of his grace we have received one blessing after another” (John 1:16). There was much visiting as people met on Friday night over supper and at the historical display compiled by Helen Dyck. The evening program was chaired by church chair, Tina Siemens

Photo by Bill Neudorf Irma Neudorf plays the new grand piano at Rosthern Mennonite. The piano was a centennial project dedicated during the anniversary weekend.

lots of music. Ted Janzen led congrega- pastor, he said. tional singing and rehearsed a choir He was also part of the misspelling for the Sunday service. Other groups of the word “Mennonite” on the included the Hale quartet, a mixed cenotaph in front of the church. group and a women’s quartet. A video The Sunday morning service was on the history of the church, put the highlight of the celebration. The together by Mark Wurtz, was shown church was beautifully decorated with on Friday. flowers. Rudy Froese told the chil- There was lots of reminiscing. Frank dren’s story, using a measuring tape to Dyck talked about being church show the length of 100 years. janitor and treasurer for 25 years, Waldemar Regier, the guest speaker, Katherine Hooge about being the spoke about the “Source of grace” organist for many years. Ed Enns based on John 1:14-16. Our ancestors shared memories of pastors. felt God had given them this land as Waldemar Regier speaks at the Waldemar Regier from Ontario, an act of grace. We have received one Rosthern anniversary. pastor at Rosthern from 1970-78, grace after another and these gifts are spoke about the transition from to be used for others, he said. who read a poem that had been German to English, the mortgage Current pastor Craig Friesen led the written for the 75th anniversary. burning and the beginning of the communion service. A dinner con- Rudy Froese, retired pastor, dressed Alliance Church that involved people cluded the weekend.—From report by up as a professor to speak about “the from RMC. That was hard on the Irma Neudorf vary and various roots of Rosthern,” including various options on how Rosthern got its name. He also gave a 2 YEAR brief history of the congregation. Church Builder Froese had also written several skits TERM DEPOSIT for the occasion, performed by Abe Letkeman, Ron Derksen and Les INVESTMENTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE Nickel. The setting for the skits was a coffee Earn a competitive return and 0.5% BONUS interest for your faith shop with the three men discussing community. Available NOW until September 30, 2003. various topics: the coming of immi- Contact your MSCU branch for more information. grants to Rosthern, getting permission to build the church, women’s voting Elmira (519) 669-1529 Milverton (519) 595-8796 rights and changing from German to Kitchener (519) 576-7220 New Hamburg (519) 662-3550 English. The weekend celebration included www.mscu.com Leamington (519) 326-8601 Waterloo (519) 746-1770

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 29 LocalChurch

Osler, Sask. Osler recalls rich and tumultuous 75 years n 1928, Osler was a small hamlet of fewer than 100 people serving Inearby Mennonite farms. A group of Mennonites gathered in the school to worship whenever a Reiseprediger (itinerant preacher) would happen by. That year, Mennonites from three backgrounds met to formalize their fellowship. There were Mennonites that had come from the U.S. with names like Boldt, Russian Mennonites like Kasdorfs and Brauns, and Old Colony Mennonites like Driedgers and Brauns. John G. Rempel, a pastor from This choir sang at the Osler Mennonite Church 75th anniversary celebration. Langham, surveyed the community tumultuous 75-year history. It told of church. and found 51 persons who wished to the church’s 28-month closure in the Jennifer Banman’s photographic establish a congregation. At 60 cents 1930s when payments could not be display traced events from the earliest an hour, Heinrich Klassen designed made, and the 1951 crisis when pastor years to the present. Following a and built the original building with its Jacob H. Pauls offered to resign over traditional Faspa on Saturday signature roof. It cost $7,000. Jacob J. the Janz revival meetings. afternoon, Grace (Day) Wiens, church Boldt financed the project and became From 1976-81, Ernie Hildebrand led organist in the 1940s, returned to play the first pastor. the church in opposing Eldorado once more. Sandra (Boldt) Horst, a At the anniversary celebrations on Nuclear’s proposal to build a uranium pianist in the 1970s and 1980s, August 2-3, a readers’ theatre group refinery five miles from Osler. The returned to play on Sunday. recalled the church’s sometimes readers’ theatre also spoke of “voice- A choir made up of several genera- less” people like Mrs. J.W. Friesen who tions sang on Sunday under the lost two infant sons in the 1930s and direction of the church’s three song the enfranchisement of women in the leaders—Ben Buhler, Keith Boldt and 1960s. They talked of the conflicts Loretta Sawatzky. Jacob Pauls, pastor caused by the divorce and re-marriage from 1938 to 1963, answered questions issue in the 1970s. from Menno Epp, the current pastor, Readers noted that the new build- about his years as an unpaid minister. ing, completed in 1998, cost 35 times A catered dinner was served to 175 more than the original church. Finally, members and guests. Finally, the Joel Sawatzky, a recently-baptized flowers were distributed to place on university student, asked whether the graves of loved ones in the adjacent church would remain strong if young cemetery.—Jake Buhler people did not develop loyalties to the

$10 Offer Serving members of Mennonite, Amish and Brethren in Christ churches across Ontario. Extended Elmira 669-1529 1 800 265-1994 Open a membership by Kitchener 576-7220 October 31, 2003 and MSCU 1 800 565-6801 will put $10 in your Leamington 326-8601 Member Share account. 1 888 285-5501 Choose the savings, chequing, Milverton 595-8796 or investment account that 1 800 952-2217 The pulpit from the original Osler best suits your needs. New Hamburg 662-3550 *Regular MSCU membership eligibility criteria apply. ID is 1 800 567-4047 required when opening new memberships. For children church built in 1928 was on display under 12, parent or guardian ID is also required. Young Waterloo 746-1770 for the anniversary weekend. children must be able to write or print their own name. 1 800 265-4513

30 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 LocalChurch

Winnipeg, Man. Houmphan has a vision for Thailand at Houmphan is committed—to Christ, to sharing the gospel, P and to church planting in Thailand. He and his wife Rad have been ministering to the Issan people of northeast Thailand since 1996. His goal is to plant seven churches before he retires. The Houmphans began their faith journeys as refugees from Laos in 1979. They became engaged to be married in a refugee camp in Thai- land. With sponsorship from Grace Mennonite Church in Regina, the Houmphans found a new home in Canada. “I told myself that if I came to this Photo by Rad Houmphan land of opportunity, I would do every- thing to study hard, so I can get a skill, get a good job, get money.... I didn’t want to suffer again,” said Pat. Pat Houmphan (left) prays with a family in Thailand. He contemplated engineering or ing a single relationship, they gain don’t like to read.” A dream for Pat is medicine. “However, God changed the access to a circle of families and to buy a projector so he can go from whole thing.” A speaker at a mission friends. village to village and show the Jesus festival seemed to be calling him to Contextualizing ministry for emerg- movie. minister in Buddhist-dominated ing Thai churches is important, said Working at a holistic gospel with Thailand. Pat. People are accustomed to sitting socio-economic development is another After some struggle, Pat gave in to on the floor. The posture for prayer item on Pat’s list. Many people are still his calling. Studies took him to Swift (kneeling with hands placed palm-to- very poor. “We want to address the Current Bible Institute and palm below the chin) has a long social concerns,” he said. Mennonite Brethren Bible College, history. Western hymnody does not More recently, Houmphans have then graduate studies in B.C. translate well into a tonal language, so begun working at leadership develop- After some church planting experi- they sing local music accompanied by ment. After six months of training, ence (Grace Laotian Mennonite appropriate instruments. participants are encouraged to lead a Fellowship in Regina), he was ready. Because bread and grape juice is not worship service, and after one year to But he knew that God had to call Rad commonly available in villages, Pat preach a sermon. They are currently as well. uses sticky rice and local fruit juice. leading 26 believers and 20 children. “My life was just starting to get Buddhism is full of ceremony, so Pat The couple is supported by better here,” said Rad. The two trans- uses candles and ritual. Mennonite Church Canada Witness lated the Confession of Faith in a Contextualized ministry is a radical and Mennonite Mission Network. They Mennonite Perspective into Laotian. move among churches in Thailand, returned to Canada this summer so This experience and “the love of God” said Pat. “But Mennonites are always Rad could have surgery. shown through Bethel Mennonite radical, right?” “I feel much better every day and Church in Langley, convinced Rad that New believers face psychological am overwhelmed by your love and she was ready to go. persecution from friends and family. care,” Rad reported in mid-August. Pat Northeast Thailand has 21 million Statistics suggest it takes five years has returned to Thailand and Rad was Issan people, with a language similar for new believers to become rooted in to return on September 6. Their to Laotian. Outreach is “very slow their faith. Buddhism has a lot of good daughter, Rachel, is beginning studies work” in a land dominated by Bud- teaching, but it is missing two main at the University of British Columbia dhism for thousands of years. concepts: creation and a saviour. this fall. Son Philip goes to school in Houmphans’ ministry focuses on “Their theology tells them to help Malaysia.—MC Canada release relationship building through activi- themselves.” ties such as teaching English, mercy While the four spiritual laws are not ministries (Pat always carries basic helpful at all in Thailand, the Jesus medicines), Vacation Bible School for movie is. “Thai people love to see; they children, and hospitality. By establish-

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 31 LocalChurch

Chunchon, South Korea Crossing the stream to follow Christ he mountain stream cascades through the valley into a quiet T pool. On a rock ledge overlook- ing the pool, 60 members of Jesus Village Church sit in the shade of overhanging trees. On a sand bank across the stream, two tents wait. Our worship leader, Cha Sung-do, stands on a rock in the stream. He asks us to become quiet and listen. We hear birds calling. We hear the stream gurgling. We see trees, varied and green, stretch up to the distant mountaintop. Our worship moves through silence to prayer, songs of praise, testimony and preaching. Eun-soo Pak, having offered a moving faith story, prepares to receive her Cha recalls how the first baptism. Anabaptists took the risk of publicly mountainside, “Yes, I do!” So we declaring their commitment to Jesus followed by Yoon-Shik Lee, Brother immerse him in the stream. As he Christ through the act of baptism. He Nahm and Daniel Ahn. Sixteen-year- surfaces, loud shouts of “Hallelujah!” calls today’s eight candidates, along old Yo-han Chung is the first to follow and cheers and clapping burst from with four members of the leadership us into the water. Daniel calls out, “Do the congregation seated on the rock. team, to cross the stream on the you accept Jesus Christ as your The fourth candidate is Christina stepping-stones. personal saviour and lord of your life?” Ahn. She has been my student for the I eagerly enter the clear pool, Yo-han’s voice echoes through the past 10 months and I have come to appreciate her quiet, solid faith. I ON A reach out to help her into the water. DISCOVER THE WORLD Now I call out the question in TOURMAGINATION TOUR English and Christina answers, “I do.” We gently immerse her, and again FALL 2003 TOURS From PRAGUE to GDANSK (July 22 - August 1) hallelujahs ring out. CANADIAN MARITIME PROVINCES (August 7-16) The final candidate is 48-year-old FALL FOLIAGE TOUR in NEW ENGLAND (August 9-24) (October 7-13) SWISS GLACIER EXPRESS Eun-soo Pak. Her powerful testimony IRELAND (September 3-14) moves us to tears. As she enters the GERMANY and SWITZERLAND (October 9-23) SWISS-VOLHYNIAN MENNONITE HERITAGE baptismal water, her face radiates CHRISTMAS SERVICE TOUR to PENNSYLVANIA (September 15-29) (November 29 - December 4) peace and joy. She knows the meaning LANDS of the BIBLE (September) of death in a personal way, having lost 2004 TOURS an only son in a traffic accident. But SERVICE TOUR to SUNNY JAMAICA that loss ultimately brought her to (January 23 - February 1) faith in Jesus. VIETNAM (February 4-21) The candidates re-cross the stream AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND to join the congregation. They are met (February 6-26) with wild flowers picked by children, a MEXICO (March 5-13) bouquet of roses, a gift-wrapped Bible PARAGUAY, BOLIVIA and PERU “Building bridges among Mennonites and other Christians and their baptism certificate. (March 23 - April 8) around the world through custom-designed travel.” After picture taking, we eat a lunch SEVEN CHURCHES of REVELATION (May 28 - June 8) CALL 1-800-565-0451 of beenin-bop—a rice and vegetable ALASKA CRUISE TOUR (June 9-21) FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR TOUR dish—watermelon and two huge EUROPEAN ANABAPTIST HERITAGE (June 9-23) birthday cakes. These eight people are E-MAIL: [email protected] the first to be baptized in this ENGLAND and SCOTLAND for WEB: www.tourmagination.com Anabaptist community.—Erwin Wiens GRANDPARENTS and GRANDCHILDREN 9 Willow Street 1011 Cathill Road (June 23 - July 5) Waterloo, ON N2J 1V6 Canada Sellersville, PA 18960-1315 Erwin and Marian Wiens from Windsor, Ontario, EUROPEAN HERITAGE (July 6-22) Reg. #1567624 USA have worked with the Jesus Village Church since July 2002. They are sponsored by MC Canada Witness and Mennonite Mission Network.

32 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 LocalChurch

Abbotsford, B.C. Menno Home celebrates 50 years he Mennonite Benevolent Society ethnic or religious background. body and soul. celebrated its 50th anniversary at The evening of praise included a A few weeks later the society met for TColumbia Bible College here on violin solo by Calvin Dyck, accompa- its annual meeting and continued the May 24 by revealing new plans for its nied on the piano by Betty Suderman. celebration. Ed Pankratz of Langley Menno Home, hospital and residences. Speaker Jake Tilitzky encouraged the was re-elected chair and Vic Ewert of The plans include a new tower at the assembly to continue serving mind, Vancouver vice-chair.—Society release centre of the property and two new residences. The new buildings will be phased in Pioneer mission beginning in 2004 and concluding in 2020. The society is currently proceed- workers killed ing with adding 75 more supportive Bulawayo, Zimbabwe—A Brethren in housing units, beginning next year. Christ (BIC) couple who served for 30 About 600 members and friends years in Zimbabwe was killed in a gathered at Columbia Bible College to traffic accident here on August 5. Alvin celebrate 50 years since the society and Thata Book, from the United was formed in 1953. From an initial States, were beginning a six-month four residents admitted in June 1954, service assignment at the Ekuphileni Bible Institute in Zimbabwe. They the society has grown to become one of were returning from Bulawayo with the major long-term care organiza- supplies when their vehicle collided tions in the province, serving about with a large truck. A student travelling 500 residents. with them had only minor injuries. Alvin and Thata Book Through a powerpoint presentation Because of the upcoming assembly, and a video, the assembly was given a many North American friends at- and helped with church planting in glimpse of residence life and of the tended the memorial service at the Venezuela for seven years. The couple staff, volunteers and boards who have BIC church here. Books also did was buried here next to Jesse Engle, one provided care based on the principles mission work in the Bronx, N.Y. In of the first BIC missionaries to Africa. —From BIC release of the Christian faith, regardless of 1992, they decided to learn Spanish

Five junior youth and three parents from Wanner Mennonite Church in Cambridge, Ontario, display 18 school kits they assembled over the past year for Mennonite Central Committee. From left: Cassie Mader, Caitlin Zvanovec, Nicole Zvanovec, Nicole Neufeld, Connie Mader, Dorothy Grove, Sandy Zvanovec, Sarah Penner, Kristen Penner and Marg Strom (coordinator). The youth brought items for the kits to their monthly gatherings. Dorothy Grove helped the group to sew the bags. On June 8, the school kits were presented as an offering. The speaker that morning was Arli Klassen of MCC Ontario.—From congregational report

Photo by Steve Weaver Photo by Steve Noor (left) from the Elwiya Orphanage for Girls in Baghdad receives a relief kit from Waleed Al- Abrashi from the agency, Enfants du Monde— Droits de l’Homme. On July 7, the 66 girls at the orphanage received 33 kits supplied by Mennonite Central Committee and distributed by Enfants du Monde. MCC shipped more than 41,000 relief kits to the Middle East in 2003. About 1,600 will go to an impoverished commu- nity in Baghdad.—From MCC release

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 33 LocalChurch

People & Events Scholarships for Zachary, Aug. 12. Friesen-Martens—Tim peacemakers Enns—to Christine and (Morden Sommerfeld Church) Harold, Sargent Ave. and Tanya, Bergthaler Phnom Penh, Cambodia—Lay Akron, Pa.—Attending the Mennonite, Winnipeg, a Mennonite, Morden, Man., Rotana participated in Youth Summer Peacebuilding daughter, Abigail Margaret, June 28. for Peace, an organization here Institute at Eastern Aug. 2. Giesbrecht-Haussecker— supported by Mennonite Mennonite University this Ens-Coe—to Tanya and Jason, Doug and Leslie, Grace Central Committee. The youth, spring were 182 people from Douglas Mennonite, Winnipeg, Mennonite, Regina, in Gimli, whose families 37 countries. Mennonite a son, Brayden Isaac, Aug. 14. Man., July 26. lived through Central Committee provided Fieguth—to Betty Pries and Janzen-Wiebe—Tim and the violent scholarships for 13 of them. Paul, Waterloo North Ericka, St. Jacobs Mennonite, years of One was Peter Siemens of Mennonite, Ont., a son, Ont., Aug. 23. Khmer Rouge Brazil, whose grandfather Thomas Paul Pries, Aug. 18. Kroeker-Derksen—Steven rule and civil received MCC aid in Ukraine Funk—to Michelle and Jason, (Rosenort Fellowship Chapel, war, con- in the 1920s. Siemens is Laird Mennonite, Sask., a son, Man.) and Carri, Bergthaler ducted helping to start a Centre for Hudson Andrew Bryant, Mennonite, Morden, Man., workshops Rotana Peacebuilding for Mennonites June 8. Aug. 16. addressing in Brazil to help churches Mackie—to Judy and Scott of Mantyka-Dueck—Shawn such things as domestic facing division. Siemens hopes Regina, Laird Mennonite, (Ukrainian Catholic) and violence. Studies show that up it can also help families and Sask., a son, John Alexander, Jennifer (Wildwood to 58 percent of Cambodian communities deal with conflict. Feb. 4. Mennonite, Saskatoon), at children have witnessed Saeed Daof, a Muslim recipi- Pilkey—to Jana (Dyck) and Nutana Park Mennonite, domestic violence. Youth for ent, is director of the Center Brad of Toronto, Wildwood Saskatoon, July 19. Peace teaches young people to, for Peace and Development of Mennonite, Saskatoon, a Sayavong-Suliyalangsy— voice their concerns and Mindanao, Philippines, in one daughter, Grace Olivia, Yorn and Wanhchai, Grace develop ideas for addressing of the country’s most volatile July 14. Mennonite, Regina, Aug. 23. problems in society.—From regions. He has mediated Wahl—to Karen and Michael, Woelcke-Willms—Reynold MCC release discussions between govern- Fort Garry Mennonite, and Carla, Coaldale ment officials and a rebel Winnipeg, a daughter, Laura Mennonite, Alta., Aug. 10. faction. Siemens, Daof and the Anne, July 25. Wright-Martens—Aaron School notes other MCC-supported partici- Wiebe—to Kathy and Ken, (Baptist) and Amanda, pants recently shared their Douglas Mennonite, Winnipeg, Coaldale Mennonite, Alta., Seminary grad experiences at a chapel service a daughter, Brooklyn Kate, July 19. for MCC staff.—From MCC July 18. Yoder-Luitjens—Eric and London, Ont.—Susan Nickel, a release Julie, Grace Mennonite, member of Valleyview Marriages Regina, Aug. 9. Mennonite Church, graduated Transitions Znidaric-Klippenstine— from the Winnipeg Seminary Baughan-Smith–Bauman— Mark and Vicki, Grace Consortium Sam and Sue, Community Mennonite, Regina, July 26. on June 1. She Births Mennonite, Drayton, Ont., was based at Adamson—adopted by Celine Aug. 27. Deaths Canadian and David, Laird Mennonite, Braun-Nilsson—Russell Mennonite Sask., a son, Samuel Mark (Bergthaler Mennonite, Epp—Vern, 58, Laird University. (born April 4). Morden, Man.) and Lori, in Mennonite, Sask., Feb. 12. She is Alexander—to Angela and Sparwood, B.C., Aug. 2. Giesbrecht—Bob, 50, Laird currently Scott, Sherbrooke Mennonite, Brenneman-Schlegel—Dan Mennonite, Sask., Jan. 5. working and Kristy, East Zorra Ramseyer—Don, 71, Nickel Vancouver, a son, Joshua towards William, Aug. 28. Mennonite, Tavistock, Ont., Mannheim Mennonite, Ont., accreditation with the Cana- Dyck—to Leesa Fast and Aug. 16. April 12. dian Association of Pastoral Alvin, Douglas Mennonite, Friesen-Mantler—Colin and Shantz—Marjorie, 78, Practice and Education. Winnipeg, a son, Owen Trina, c July 5. Community Mennonite, Aug. 22. Sociologists Cal Redekop, Paul Peachey and Leo Driedger were honoured by the Anabaptist Sociology and Anthro- Baptisms pology Association at its July meeting in Hillsdale, Bergthaler Mennonite, Michigan. Redekop, now retired in Virginia, taught at four Morden, Man.—Tony Mennonite colleges, including Conrad Grebel, and re- Bueckert, June 8. searched topics ranging from Old Colony Mennonites to Laird Mennonite, Sask.— authority and economics as related to Anabaptism. Greg Redekopp, Sandra Peachey taught at Eastern Mennonite College and worked Galambos, Kathy Miller, Jodie with MCC in Japan before becoming active in ecumenical Teichroeb, Jeff Jepsen, Tyler peace issues. For 20 years he taught at the Catholic Dueck, Tom Bergen, Matt University of America in Washington D.C. Driedger, who Bergen, Brett Galamabos, taught at Canadian Mennonite Bible College and the June 8. University of Manitoba, has written 18 books and many Mannheim Mennonite, articles.—From reports Ont.—Ryan Shantz, June 22.

34 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 LocalChurch LocalAdvertisingChurch

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MennoniteMennonite Church Church “We need to belong to a they write new songs for the CanadaCanada larger [church] than just us,” summer camp session. she said. “My heart is still with “We are particularly blessed Tote bag maker the larger church.” this resource comes to us so Canadian Women in Mission tailor made,” said Bob Wiebe. goes extra mile volunteers sewed nearly 1,500 “Over the years they have Anne Neufeld of Coaldale, tote bags for assembly goers. produced over a dozen songs Alberta, went the extra mile by At $5.00 each, sale of the bags that can be used as new inserting notes into the 25 raised over $400 for MC worship music for the churches bags she sewed for the Canada ministries. The as well.” Mennonite Church Canada majority of the bags were Some of that new music is assembly in St. Catharines. returned and will be re-used at now available on a CD, The notes promised a donation future assemblies.—MC “Peace—Live It!” Released in to MC Canada on behalf of the Canada release July, the 29 songs are a bearer. collection from the last several Anne Neufeld with the tote years of camp. Her note read, “This tote bag Mennonite Church bags she helped to sew. Mennonite Church was sewn for you with care, Manitoba Sandra Friesen, organizer of and with a prayer that God made. May his blessings Manitoba the recording, pulled together will bless you as you serve abound through you.” senior camp staff from Camp songs previous years as well as the Him through Mennonite Neufeld said her project available on CD Church Canada. I will pray for “gives me the joy of giving to Junior Choir from Sargent the sessions, for those who are the church, and somebody else For the past three or four Avenue Mennonite Church in in leadership, and for you as a perhaps gets an idea.” What years, song writers have Winnipeg, directed by Lori participant. May God grant motivates her is commitment gathered for a workshop every Wiebe. you wisdom as various issues to the work of the wider spring. With the Camps with Some of the songs are by the are dealt with and decisions church. Meaning curriculum in hand 2002 song writing team: From our Reflections on Assembly 2003 leaders this at the assembly. Several things stick in my mind as I time” if we met only every other Pain and vision: At times reflect on the Mennonite Church year? it felt like there was tension between Canada assembly in St. Catharines. Input: I was struck by the careful the need to grieve what has been lost Time: “You are so close, so terribly attention to financial detail, both in the and a desire to look forward in trusting close, to allowing God’s Spirit to move reporting and the discussion. I look vision to face the challenges of the people in worship. Why not...yield to the forward to the time when we can devote church. I wondered about that tension. Spirit’s prodding, and see where it will that same energy to other details for Is it not possible to look back at the take you? It appears as though you are ministry at home and around the world. pain through eyes of vision, and to look stifling the moving of the Spirit with I was inspired by Tom Yoder Neufeld’s forward to the challenges with the tightly controlled time allotments.” application of Ephesians to our church life. knowledge of pain? Pain and vision can This was one of Peter Stucky’s Why is it that the biblical books always be simultaneous experiences. Pain and comments when I asked him how he seem to be more relevant when our seas vision are not adversaries but comrades was experiencing our assembly. are a bit stormy? I was energized by the on our journey of faithfulness. Knowing his Latin American spirit, I ability of Five on the Floor, the bluegrass- Gratitude: Overall, I feel an can suggest that he needs to gospel group, to lead a tired audience to overwhelming sense of gratitude for the contextualize worship in our setting. theological levity. Thank you. church. The time it spends, the ministry Knowing the spiritual hunger in our Process: A poignant moment came it promotes, the sensitivity to process it own people, I wonder if he has a point. when a young adult Council member represents, and the pain it experiences I was dismayed by the paralyzing pointed to her role in the difficult decision- within a framework of theological vision trauma experienced by a Laotian making process and bluntly asked: “Do you are causes for gratitude. I sense an church leader who was told that he had still trust me?” We struggle to get young increasing conviction that our society to stick to a three-minute time-slot. adults involved in the church. Can we needs such an alternative: one that is “The tyranny of time,” I thought as I support them when they do? based on a healthy watched him struggle to overcome his One sentence in the Canadian dose of revelation from fear of the clock. Mennonite report caught my eye: “Perhaps “above” rather than Delegates repeatedly expressed the the least acknowledged grief was that of only our muddy need for “more time to talk.” It makes the conference leaders who had to make wisdom from “below.” me ponder someone’s suggestion that the painful decisions and face the del- Jack Suderman, executive we have an assembly every two years. egates.” Thank you, Margaret Loewen secretary of Witness, MC How would we handle the “tyranny of Reimer, for your sensitivity in “hearing” Canada

36 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 LocalChurch

Darryl Neustaedter Barg, Phil Friesen hopes that the church Campbell-Enns, Barrette W. can “find ways of staying Plett, Loretta Friesen and connected so they can learn Bryon Moyer Suderman. Other about what they are [involved artists are Gord Sawatsky, Lori in] and also helping me stay Franz and Rick Hoeppner connected with the church,” Mueller. Neustaedter Barg she said. produced the CD. Friesen is part of a family The recording is available at mission tradition. Extended all three camps and at family members have served in Mennonite Church Manitoba Zaire, Mali, Taiwan, China, offices. and the Ukraine.—From MC Canada release Mennonite Church MennoniteMennonite Church Church

Saskatchewan Photo by Marianne Siemens BritishBritish Columbia Columbia Cari Friesen receives a blessing from Jack Dyck (Mount Royal Gift for languages pastor), uncle Don Friesen (right) and other family members. draws Friesen to China Women’s retreat will Burkina Faso with the tian, my presence there, my focus on the garden A gift for languages and a Commission on Overseas interactions with people—all desire to use those gifts for Mission. Friesen speaks of that relates to my ministry The BC Mennonite Women in God’s purposes is leading Cari French and Portuguese, and there,” she said. Friesen is Mission retreat is scheduled Friesen to China to teach has a Music Ministry degree supported by Mennonite for October 18-20 at Camp English for two years. from Canadian Mennonite Church Canada Witness in Squeah. The theme for the The 25-year-old Saskatch- Bible College (2000). partnership with China weekend is, “The Christian ewan woman has lived in Friesen sees her English Educational Exchange. journey: Exploring the rhythm Africa (former Zaire, now teaching as an opportunity to Chongqing, where she will of the garden,” with guest Congo) and Brazil. She also be a Christian witness to teach, is a long way from her speakers Angelika Dawson served as an Overseas Mission students. home church, Mount Royal and Benita Warkentin. Volunteer (2000-2001) in “Being myself as a Chris- Mennonite in Saskatoon, but Using scripture, music, displays and readings, each session will explore the lessons Letter from Colombia of the garden in each season On the Sunday I was there, a couple and how these parallel our The following is from an August 19 letter by shared their burden of having a daughter spiritual lives. Other high- Rudy and Helen Baergen, MC Canada Witness kidnapped a year ago and no word since. A lights of the weekend include workers in Colombia. young father asked me about Canada and music arranged by Barbara then asked me for money. Another father Nickel and Amy Dueckman, This past weekend we were both in La Mesa told me he had been turned down by the and the annual silent auction. where I am doing some teaching for several Canadian embassy in spite of the fact that Women are encouraged to weekends, and Helen is assisting in forming two of his brothers had been killed. bring items for this auction— a choir for the church’s 50th anniversary. A middle-aged woman came to tell us that anything from homemade Next weekend I will return to Ecuador to she and her family were leaving the next crafts, baking or canning to provide some input on Anabaptist week for Canada to settle in Stratford. She purchased items. Proceeds ecclesiology at the first retreat of the survived an attack which left her with three from the auction make it Mennonite Church in Quito. Helen will do bullet wounds. Leaving her beautiful possible for financially some music workshops. country, her culture and family felt like a challenged women to attend Meanwhile, we are putting the finishing mixed blessing to her. the retreat. Blessings Book- touches on one part of an Anabaptist Sunday The theme of my sermon was that God store will be on hand as well. School curriculum for Latin America, a will provide, focusing on Abraham’s desper- Registration forms will be project which has been headed for the last ate faith in the face of God’s incomprehensi- available in the congregations six years by Henry and Helen Dueck, with ble “testing,” the call to sacrifice his son and by mid-September. For more some 130 writers from across Latin America. thus his future. Seldom has Abraham’s faith information contact Pam The war in this country continues to cause seemed so audacious, so assuring. The hush Roseboom at (604) 823 6848. devastation. A few weeks ago I preached in of the audience assured me that the story the Teusaquillo church where Peter Stucky is struck a chord. Unless otherwise credited, the the pastor. This church has opened its doors The Teusaquillo Church is taking articles in TheChurches pages were to displaced people and they come by the seriously the conviction that they are part of written by: Leona Dueck Penner (Mennonite Church Canada), dozen with their desperate stories. God’s provision. Let’s remember and support Maurice Martin (Eastern Canada), With the influx of new people it becomes our brothers and sisters on the front line of Evelyn Rempel Petkau (Manitoba), almost impossible for the church to maintain incredibly difficult situations. Remember the Karin Fehderau (Saskatchewan), a sense of identity and community. What a Colombian pastors in prayer. Let us not be Donita Wiebe-Neufeld (Alberta), contrast from many of our churches in remiss in accepting the part that we have to Angelika Dawson (B.C.). See page 2 Canada where we develop extensive mission play in the equation of God providing.— for contact information. strategies to attract new people! Rudy and Helen Baergen

Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 37 ToLocalMorrowChurch

Mennonites and Farewell for about how God is transforming Calendar multiculturalism Ron Rempel lives and how you can help. The couple were Mennonite Winnipeg, Man.—“Mennonites Waterloo, Ont.—A farewell Church Canada Witness and the challenge of dinner and “roast” for Ron workers.—MC Canada release British Columbia multiculturalism” is the title of Rempel will be held at Elmira September 20: MC British a conference at the University Mennonite Church on October Columbia all-pastors’ meeting. of Winnipeg on October 18. The 18. It will be an evening of UN seminar on September 27: MCC B.C. Fall event is sponsored by the stories, humour and food, religion and conflict Fair at Civic Centre, Prince Chair in Mennonite Studies. remembering Rempel’s 24 George. New York, N.Y The keynote address will be years as editor and publisher .—Post-second- October 6-8: Pastor/spouse “The challenge of multicultur- of Canadian Mennonite. ary students are invited to the retreat. Contact MC British alism in Canada” by Jean Host of the evening will be eighth annual Mennonite Columbia for details. Augustine, Secretary of State Ivan Emke, former columnist. Central Committee United October 8, 14, 16, 18: for Multiculturalism. Other The dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Nations seminar here October Mennonite Church British topics are Teaching Mennonite Tickets are available from 2-4. The topic this year is Columbia Listening Meetings, Studies, Singing Mennonites Betty Dyck at (519) 669-8314. “Religion: Fuel for world 7:00 p.m.: Emmanuel and Writing about Mennonites. conflict or healing salve?” Mennonite, Abbotsford (8); Speakers include Harry Speaker will be Joseph Sherbrooke Mennonite, Loewen, Al Reimer, Ted Evening to focus Liechty, scholar and mission Vancouver (14); First Regehr, Hildi Froese Tiessen on Ukraine worker in Northern Ireland for Mennonite, Greendale (16). and James Urry. Contributors many years. UN officials, First Mennonite, Kelowna (18) Winnipeg, Man. to the music section are —Jake and ambassadors and partner at 10:00 a.m. Henrietta and Rudy Dorothy Unrau, who have just organizations will also be on October 17-19: Women in Schellenberg, Ed and Mily returned from service in hand for discussion on hot- Mission retreat at Camp Hildebrandt and Tim Snider. Zaporyzhyzha, Ukraine, will be spots such as Israel/Palestine Squeah with speakers For more information, featured in a Ukraine Dessert and Kashmir. Angelika Dawson and Benita contact Roy Loewen, phone Night at First Mennonite For details, contact MCC Warkentin. (204) 786-9391, e-mail: Church here on October 5. The United Nations, phone (212) October 18: Mennonite [email protected].—From event begins at 7:00 p.m. 223-4062, e-mail: unoffice Historical Society of B.C. @mcc.org.—From release release Unraus will tell stories banquet with speaker John B.

Plan to Attend Orie in Paraguay Can parents name their son Orie? asks Korny Neufeld in the May 16 Mennoblatt, published in Filadelfia, Paraguay. Obviously, he answers, because the Millers from Indiana, USA, gave their newborn this name in 1892. And a street in Filadelfia is named after him. The article goes on to describe the contributions of Orie O. Miller to the Mennonite colonies in Paraguay. After studies at Goshen College, Miller was three times a candidate for the ministry, but the lot never fell to him. The son of a wealthy farmer and partner in his father-in- law’s shoe factory, he entered a life of business. ROAST But he felt called to serve the church as well. In 1919, Miller travelled to Beirut and participated in relief efforts in Syria and Armenia. In 1920, he organized aid for An evening of song, stories, humour and food Mennonites in south Russia through the newly-formed remembering 24 years of service Mennonite Central Committee. Many of our forebears owe their lives to him, notes Neufeld. Featuring: Ivan Emke At age 28, Miller was named executive secretary of Master of Ceremonies MCC. For Mennonites in Paraguay, Miller was the “essence” of MCC, says Neufeld. He personally helped Saturday, October 18, 2003 Tickets: $25 per person Mennonite refugees from Russia settle in Paraguay and Elmira Mennonite Church available from Brazil, organizing aid and negotiating land prices. He Elmira, Ontario Betty Dyck visited the Chaco area about 20 times. His last visit was Dinner & Program: 6:30 pm (519) 669-8314 in 1970.

38 Canadian Mennonite September 8, 2003 Volume 7, Number 17 ToMorrow

Toews. Call (604) 853-6177, e- Manitoba Ontario Union, 7:30 p.m. Elmira mail: [email protected]. Mennonite (20), Wellesley November 1: MCC B.C. September 20: Morris MCC September 14: Celebration at Mennonite (21), MSCU head annual meeting. Relief Sale. Altona Mennonite office, Kitchener (27), UMEI, November 6-8: Mennonite September 21: Welcome Party Meetinghouse near Stouffville, Leamington (28). Disaster Service informational for young adults moving to 3:30 p.m. Call (905) 640-1536 November 14-15: Mennonite evenings: Vernon Mennonite Winnipeg, at Home Street for details. Central Committee annual (6), Greendale MB (7), Peace Mennonite Church, sponsored September 29 and 30: meeting in Stouffville. Speak- Mennonite, Richmond (8), 7:00 by MC Manitoba Young Adult Seniors retreat at Hidden ers: Ed Nyce, Ron Mathies and p.m. Reports from MDS Council. Acres Camp (choose one day). Don Peters. volunteers. September 26-27: Brandon Theme: Reflections on world November 7-9: Scrapbooking MCC Relief Sale. conference with Ray United States retreat at Camp Squeah. September 26-27: Canadian Brubacher. Call (519) 625-8602 Contact Christa Lynn Nikkel, Mennonite University Home- or 888-9642. October 2-4: MCC United e-mail: [email protected]. coming weekend. Friday October 18: Farewell dinner Nations seminar for post- November 29: Mennonite evening: Faculty concert at for Ron Rempel ( former secondary students. Phone Church British Columbia 7:00 p.m. and Live@CMU for Canadian Mennonite editor) at (212) 223-4062, e-mail: special delegate meeting at youth with Radiantsonchild, Elmira Mennonite Church. [email protected]. Bethel Mennonite, Aldergrove. 7:00 p.m. October 20, 21, 27, 28: September 28: CMU presi- Regional meetings for Alberta dent’s installation at Portage Mennonite Savings and Credit Ave. MB Church with speaker September 27: Mennonite Stanley Hauerwas, 3:00 p.m. Historical Society of Alberta October 4: Equipping meeting in LaCrete. For Conference with Ministers and details and transportation, Deacons Conference at contact Dick at (403) 241-1819 Winkler Bergthaler Mennonite or Irene (403) 275-9550. Church. October 11-12: 50th anniver- Saskatchewan sary celebrations at Graysville Mennonite Church. Phone September 19: MCC building (204) 828-3359. renovation fundraiser, West October 17-18: Women in Portal Mennonite Brethren Mission fall retreat at Camp Church, Saskatoon. Assiniboia. Speaker: Kathy October 1: Pastors’ gathering Giesbrecht. on “Learning while leading.” October 18: MC Manitoba October 17: MCC Saskatch- special delegate meeting. ewan Support Circle workshop October 23-25: Youth at Grace Mennonite Church, ministry course and conference Regina, 7:00 p.m. at Canadian Mennonite October 17-18: Women in University with Rick Bartlett. Mission retreat. October 25: Preaching October 18: MCC Saskatch- workshop at Springfield ewan Support Circle workshop Heights Mennonite Church, at Rosthern Mennonite Winnipeg. Church, 10:00 a.m. October 30-November 2: October 19: MCC Saskatch- MEDA 50th anniversary ewan Support Circle workshop convention at Fairmont Hotel, at Massey Place Community, Winnipeg. Call 800-665-7026. Saskatoon, 2:00 p.m. October 31-November 2: October 25: Alumni Volleyball Quilting retreat with Val Tournament at Rosthern Pankratz at Camp Moose Junior College. Lake. October 31-November 1: November 1, 8: Preaching MCC Saskatchewan annual workshops at Grace Mennonite meeting at Laird Mennonite Church, Brandon (1) and Plum Church. Coulee Bergthaler Mennonite November 14-15: MC Church (8). Saskatchewan Bible Confer- November 7-9: Quilting ence with Harry Huebner at retreat with Meg Suderman at Grace Mennonite Church, Camp Moose Lake. Regina.

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