October 27, 2014 Volume 18 Number 21

‘What is truth?’ pg. 4

inside Legacy of ‘the clock’ 14 Sexuality is about more than just sex 19

PM40063104 R09613 ‘Choose hope’ for climate 25 2 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

Editorial worshipped together. The admonishers and those admonished likely had an ongoing relationship with each other, and out of that relationship came (hopefully!) Lower the the needed teaching and moral guidance. Jump ahead 20 centuries. We can now fire off an angry e-mail, leave a snarky com- ment on Facebook, send an anonymous let- pointing finger ter or launch a written string of Bible verses Virginia Hostetler at a person we don’t know personally. It’s Interim co-editor easy to “admonish”—read “criticize”—a brother or sister one has never met. everal months ago, our editor inform how we see the world. He writes, A Facebook friend of mine recently heard complaints from someone “What we have found . . . are competing posted a thought from author Philip Swho wanted Canadian paradigms, each purporting to Yancey. In the photo an accusing hand Mennonite to stop carrying let- be the truth.” Sometimes we lack points at a cringing person who is trying ters to the editor because letters the insight into another person’s to shield his face. The quotation reads, often cause too much friction. paradigm and simply respond “I’ve yet to meet someone who found A small confession: We like to out of frustration. Sometimes our their way to faith by being criticized.” hear from our readers. As the main opinions gain too much emo- In his latest book, Vanishing Grace: conversation venues for members tional intensity when a contrary What Ever Happened to the Good News? of Mennonite Church Canada, our printed point of view causes us to confront our Yancey speaks of a “crisis of grace” in magazine and online presence offer op- own fears and doubts. How might we talk current North American Christianity. He portunities for people across the church to to each other—in helpful ways—from points out that sometimes the ungracious weigh in on what matters to them. When within our own worldviews? way we treat others belies the beliefs we you send us letters, leave thoughts on our There’s the route of admonishment. claim to hold. website, and comment on our Facebook The Apostle Paul instructs believers to The world is hungry for examples of page, we know that you want to be engaged “admonish the idlers” (I Thessalonians grace. I challenge us to demonstrate ways with others in our faith family. 5:14) and to “teach and admonish one of disagreeing with each other that offer But I’ve been wondering recently about another in all wisdom” (Colossians 3:16, hope to each other and to our cynical certain types of responses—the finger- both quotes NRSV). culture. Might we have a moratorium on wagging kind, the kind that disparages the As it relates to Christian sisters and long-distance admonishing? Let’s us give beliefs of another individual or enumerates brothers, Jacob Elias defines the word up the impulse to correct any belief that the faults of the entire church. This kind of “admonishing” as teaching, nurturing, we deem wrong. Let’s encourage each response suggests arrogance: So-and-so has instruction, offering moral guidance, and other and learn what it means to bear an absolutely wrong belief and it is my duty warning in I and 2 Thessalonians from with each other in love. Instead of criti- to correct that belief; how stupid/sinful of the Believers Church Bible Commentary cizing, let’s seek to listen deeply to each so-and-so to think that way! series. Elias does not give as synonyms other’s stories. Let’s invigorate the practice It’s easy to carry out angry arguments the words reprimanding, scolding or ridi- of gathering around the Bible—together— on Facebook, and writers of strong culing. In fact, in many New Testament to seek the Spirit’s guidance. opinions can hide behind anonymity in letters, believers are more often urged to We can lower our pointing fingers, online comments. Uncharitable things encourage each other, to bear with each trusting that the Holy Spirit will give insight get said and conversation gets shut down. other in love, and to forgive each other. even to the sisters and brothers with whom Relationships are broken. If the early believers practised ad- we most fervently disagree. May we also In this issue’s feature article, Dave monishing, likely they did it face-to- have the humility to realize that we, too, Rogalsky writes about paradigms that face, in households where they ate and desperately need that wisdom from above.

About the cover: Circulation: Please contact Lisa Jacky toll-free at In this famous painting, Pilate presents a scourged Christ to crowds in 1-800-378-2524 ext. 221 or by e-mail at office@ Jerusalem. Eastern Canada correspondent Dave Rogalsky explores the canadianmennonite.org for subscriptions and ad- meaning of Pilate’s famous question, ‘What is truth?’ in his feature of the dress changes. Subscriptions can also be ordered at same name beginning on page 4. our web site. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada ARTWORK: ‘ECCE HOMO’ (DETAIL) BY ANTONIO CICERI, 19TH-CENTURY Periodical Fund for our publishing activities. ISSN 1480-042X PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40063104 REGISTRATION NO. 09613 What is truth? 4 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE ITEMS TO CANADIAN MENNONITE contentsAs the world turns from modern to postmodern and from 490 DUTTON DRIVE, UNIT C5 WATERLOO ON N2L 6H7 Christian to post-Christian, Eastern Canada correspondent Phone: 519-884-3810 Toll-free: 1-800-378-2524 Fax: 519-884-3331 Dave Rogalsky explores the changing meaning(s) of Web site: canadianmennonite.org truth.

Please send all material to be considered for publication to: Lessons from those who left 16 General submission address: [email protected] Senior writer Will Braun offers his thoughts on what Mennonites Readers Write: [email protected] have to learn from the recent Ex-Mennonite/Near Mennonite Milestones announcements: [email protected] Obituaries: Michael Hostetler, [email protected] Conference in Winnipeg. Calendar announcements: [email protected] Material can also be sent “Attn: Submissions/Readers Write/Milestones/Obituaries/Calendar” ‘They are not alone’ 20 by postal mail or fax to our head office. Mennonites remember missing and murdered indigenous Reprint requests: [email protected] women at Winnipeg vigil, reports Manitoba correspondent Evelyn Rempel Petkau. Mission statement: To educate, inspire, inform, and foster dialogue on issues facing Mennonites in Canada as it shares the good news of Jesus Christ from an Anabaptist perspective. We do this Encouraged to keep working 27 through an independent publication and other media, working with our church partners. Saskatchewan community developer Ray Funk is awarded Goshen Guiding values: (Ind.) College’s Culture for Service Award. Hebrews 10:23-25 • Accuracy, fairness, balance • Editorial freedom • Seeking and speaking the truth in love • Open hearts and minds in discerning God’s will • Focus on Books & Resources 28-32 Covenantal relationships and mutual accountability Read book reviews by David Driedger, Barb Draper and Elma Martens Schemenauer. Plus, browse the Fall List of Books and Area churches and MC Canada financially support 38 percent of Canadian Mennonite’s Resources for Christmas gift ideas. annual budget. Young Voices 34-37 Board of Directors (by appointing body): ‘Values, views and visions’ by Kalynn Spain. ‘Supplementary reading’ by MC Canada: Les Klassen Hamm, Doreen Martens, Henry Krause, Bryan Moyer Suderman MC B.C.: Linda Matties; MC Alberta: Kuen Yee; Aaron Epp. ‘The Forks and the Road’ by Rachel Bergen. MC Saskatchewan: Marianne Harder; MC Manitoba: Ken Reddig; MC Eastern Canada: Tim Reimer; Regular features: CMPS: Carl DeGurse, Roger Epp, Tobi Thiessen For discussion 8 Readers write 9 Milestones 15 Board Chair: Tobi Thiessen, [email protected], 416-622-7850 Pontius’ Puddle 15 Yellow Page 26 Calendar 38 Classifieds 39 Head Office Staff: 2 Dick Benner, Editor/Publisher, [email protected] (on sabbatical) Lower the pointing finger Ross W. Muir, Managing Editor, [email protected] Virginia A. Hostetler Barb Draper, Editorial Assistant, [email protected] (interim co-editor) 9 Dan Johnson, Graphic Designer, [email protected] Connecting passions Lisa Jacky, Circulation/Finance, [email protected] Vic Thiessen Aaron Epp, Young Voices Co-editor, [email protected] 10 Rachel Bergen, Young Voices Co-editor, [email protected] That’s a lot of money! Virginia Hostetler, Web Editor, [email protected] (interim co-editor) Sherri Grosz

Advertising Manager: D. Michael Hostetler, [email protected], The deadly sin of pride 11 toll-free voice mail: 1-800-378-2524 ext. 224 Melissa Miller Correspondents: Will Braun, Senior Writer, [email protected]; Online NOW! Amy Dueckman, B.C. Correspondent, [email protected], 604-854-3735; Donita Wiebe-Neufeld, Alberta Correspondent, [email protected], 780-436-3431; at canadianmennonite.org Donna Schulz, Saskatchewan Correspondent, [email protected], 306-232-4733; Evelyn Rempel Petkau, Manitoba Correspondent, [email protected], 204-745-2208; Web exclusives: Dave Rogalsky, Eastern Canada Correspondent, [email protected], 519-577-9987. • Why the choice to die is not personal or private One-Year Subscription Rates • South Sudanese trained in trauma awareness in conflict zones Canada: $44 + tax (depends on province where subscriber lives) • Six things you can do to prepare for PA 2015 U.S.: $66 International (outside U.S.): $89.10 Subscribe to our RSS feeds and find out when new stories are posted online. Printed in Canada Award-winning member of the Canadian Church Press Facebook.com/Canadian.Mennonite @CanMenno God at Work in the Church Feature “What is truth?” We have believed we can find the truth, have found the truth, and that this truth can be easily appropriated by others. . . . What we have instead found are competing paradigms, each purporting to be the truth.

By Dave Rogalsky Eastern Canada Correspondent

ilate asked him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.’ Pilate “Pasked him, “What is truth?” After he had said this, he went out to the Jews again and told them, ‘I find no case against him’” (John 18:37-38, NRSV). One way of looking at this passage is to see Pilate as the cyn- ical Roman, refusing to believe in Jesus who had just made his righteous claim to be the king who spoke nothing but the truth. Because of his cynicism, Pilate does not see the truth, does not re- ceive Jesus’ message, refuses salvation, and, according to an early church document called “The Acts of Pilate,” loses any chance at This is a dire message for all people: salvation. Believe the truth about Jesus, who is the This is a dire message for all people: Believe the truth about Jesus, who is the Truth, or lose any chance at salvation. Jesus is Truth, or lose any chance at salvation. the Way, the Truth and the Life. There is no other way, truth or There is no other way, truth or life. life. Another way of looking at this passage asks the question, “How did anyone know what Jesus and Pilate discussed?” Is this not a “sacred fiction” written by John or another early Christian trying to make a point about Jesus, using Pilate as a character? This text is not about Pilate’s or anyone else’s salvation, but is about Jesus’ eternal kingship as opposed to any earthly, in this case Roman, rule. This fit the need of the early church as it faced persecution by the Romans. Jesus’ pushback against Pilate showed them how to live: Don’t give in. Here is a message for today as we face the powers of government, capitalism and society: Don’t give in. Jesus is the original anti-government, anti-culture martyr. We need to follow his example. Each of these responses to the passage from John 18 comes from a way of thinking that is complete in itself. Such ways of thinking are often called paradigms. From inside a paradigm cer- tain truths are true beyond doubt. They make sense to those who live within this paradigm. People build their lives on these truths and are willing to live and die for them. Anyone who challenges these ideas is either ignorant, naïve, witless or purposely dense. In Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 5

‘ECCE HOMO’ BY ANTONIO CICERI, 19TH-CENTURY

exasperation, those in the paradigm ask, change? Galileo was silenced by the circled the earth. The earth was, after all, “What is wrong with those people who church because he had come to believe the home of humans who were made in don’t see things the way we see them?” that the moons of Jupiter did not circle God’s own image. As the highest point the earth, but Jupiter, contrary to the in the creation, everything else must be Understanding paradigms belief of his day that reasoned everything subordinate to humans and their home. These belief systems are not only reli- This made complete sense to everyone. gious or philosophical. The book that According to Kuhn’s study of the his- popularized the idea of the paradigm was tory of science, the paradigm of a group The Structure of Scientific Revolutions of scientists in a specific area of science by Thomas Kuhn. Kuhn looked at how is not learned by memorizing rules and and when scientific ideas were upset and theories. Instead, newcomers to a disci- changed. How did the earth-centred idea pline are given to repeat experiments of the universe get changed to a sun-cen- whose outcome is already known, and are tred idea, and then to a universe with no given problems which are already solved, real centre, where every place is relative to find again the known solutions. In to other places? this way, through practice, they learn the How did systems of belief, which led rules and theories. some to send others to their death for A page from Galileo’s notebook depicting In his book Worship and Evangelism heretical beliefs in the wrong science, the movement of Jupiter’s moons. in Pre-Christendom, Alan Krieder 6 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

ILLUSTRATION: ©ISTOCK.COM/BENMOAT describes how new believers in the early found the truth, and that this truth can church were brought into the paradigm be easily appropriated by others. But the of the church out of the paradigm of the multiplicity of Mennonite groups should Greco-Roman world in which they lived. give us pause and raise a flag of humility Through a multi-year process of learn- to such a claim. ing the mysteries of the faith, they slowly When it has become apparent that we came to think from within the belief disagree about something, we tend to system. This system saw the story of God separate, hurling claims of heresy or lack in relationship with humanity written of Christian belief at those whom we are in the Scriptures and the history of the leaving or who are leaving us. We have world. Finally, they would be baptized not found the truth, none of us, no group, on Easter eve and then be allowed into no individual. their first communion service/love feast, What we have found instead are com- a celebration only baptized adherents to peting paradigms, each purporting to be alive for the next half century, grinding the Christian faith were invited to. the truth. This is a hard pill to swallow to a sputtering end when the greatest In her book A Mennonite Woman, because, from inside a paradigm, the Christian and most powerful nation on Dawn Ruth Nelson notes that it was beliefs hold together, make sense, are ap- earth, the United States, was stopped by the community that taught faith in the plicable and hold emotional power over a little atheistic, Communist Chinese- Mennonite church for generations. those who believe. backed nation in Southeast Asia: Family, work, church and the community The potential collapse of a paradigm Vietnam. at large taught faith less than modelled it, is fraught with fear, grief, depression and During this same period, Einstein’s and brought children up into it through hopelessness. This potential can keep work on relativity (see equation above) practice. In both the early church and sane and rational people believing what shook the idea of there being a firm place Nelson’s tight-knit Mennonite commu- others around them see as nonsense. We to stand anywhere in the scientific world, nity, the faith made sense to everyone, witness this in the Americas and Europe, and led philosophers to begin to ques- just as scientific beliefs make sense to where Christians are transitioning to a tion the idea of there being any objective everyone in a scientific discipline. post-Christendom society. truth. Postmodern philosophers began to When paradigms shift The collapse of the modern paradigm build systems of subjective truth. Much The early Christian process of bring- This year, in which we commemorate of what they developed looked relativ- ing new converts into the paradigm, the centennial of the beginning of the istic to many, with no foundation for the mind-set of the church, broke down First World War, can also been seen as truth and no overarching story of human when, after Constantine, culture became a commemoration of the beginning of history. “Christians in Christendom.” No longer were Christians a minority with a differ- ent way of looking at life, but they be- As part of the Anabaptist stream, Mennonites came the majority living in a “Christian” are part of this modern belief system. Mennonites culture. The modern period of history—1400s have believed that they can find the truth about to 1900s—believed that absolute truth God and humanity through a simple reading could be found, clarified and articulated. This referred to philosophy, theology, of Scripture and its application to life. sociology, psychology and all kinds of sci- ence. If human beings put their rational minds to work, they would discover the end of modernity. That Christian In terms of faith, some people have truth such that everyone would come nations could send out soldiers against developed highly personal belief systems to believe it. Even theology became each other, to kill each other in the mil- based on what they have gathered from systematic. lions, using the best of science in their many sources. David Lyon, professor As part of the Anabaptist stream, military hardware, and based on the best of sociology at Queens University in Mennonites are part of this modern of philosophy, has led philosophers and Kingston, Ont., calls this a “bricolage belief system. Mennonites have believed theologians to wonder about the whole faith.” Like a collection of bric-a-brac, that they can find the truth about God project of finding truth, especially in many have developed a faith and practice and humanity through a simple reading Europe, since 1914. that is made up of bits of many philoso- of Scripture and its application to life. We Progress in North and South America phies and religions that work for them. have believed we can find the truth, have through the 20th century kept modernity But this absolute subjectivity has not Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 7

caught the imagination of everyone. Some have fled into quasi-modern belief systems, which give them assurance that what they believe is absolutely true and cannot, in the end, be satisfactorily challenged. Fundamentalisms of many kinds are found in all the major religions. Choosing some point in history, theology or prac- tice to draw their line in the sand, these groups build a wall around their beliefs and declare that anyone outside that wall is lost. In extreme cases, often called cults, people are cut off from all other ways of thinking and from people who think differently, in an effort to shelter the group’s paradigm from challenges. It is often the newest converts to a faith who are the most strident in their defence of it. Others in modern culture have drifted into “infidelity”: a lack of belief in any- thing revealed by any god/God or held by any religion. Some of these continue to hold to reason and science as the places to find truth. Seeing that use of force and violence have yet to solve any human problems, they look to empathic acceptance of all people as the solution to humanity’s problems. It sometimes seems that the only people they cannot accept are fundamentalists. When community-based faith breaks down Dawn Ruth Nelson tells the story of her work in Northern Ireland during the “troubles” there. When the small inten- tional community of which she was a part broke down, she found that her accultur- to have some truths upon which many experience of many people over time ated faith could not carry her through can agree, and it has become clear that and space. In her book A History of God, the interreligious troubles in Ireland, there are different ways of finding truth. Armstrong proposes that mystics past and nor help her to understand how her own These ways are not the old ways of an present, Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Christian community could act so badly. individual studying and developing truth, beyond, have come to truths through lives Many Christians find that they need nor of an individual prophet receiving a of contemplation. These truths include: new ways of thinking about faith and new revealed truth that all must obey. disciplines to grow and strengthen their Historians like Karen Armstrong have • There is a god/God who can be ap- faith in the absence of the old commu- come to the conclusion that there is proached, found and communicated with nity-based faith. Trying to live out their truth to be found by studying the wide through contemplative prayer. inherited faith paradigm in the different paradigms of human cultures, many are going through crises of faith. Nelson In terms of faith, some people have developed turned to contemplative Christianity to highly personal belief systems based on what support her faith and work. It has become clear that there is a need they have gathered from many places. 8 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

• This god/God works to change Many Christians find that they need new ways people from the inside out into empathic and love-driven workers for change in of thinking about faith and new disciplines to society. grow and strengthen their faith in the absence Because she finds this in many religions, of the old community-based faith. she does not depend on outside influences like religious texts and practice, or hier- archies, to influence people. Instead, god/ understanding of the truth, since no one Christian homosexuals in the life of the God works from the inside out to influ- can ever have all the truth. church, Metzger wondered if unity were ence and change people no matter which Separating into camps the way to be found in faithfully praying, wor- religion nurtured and matured them. The Mennonites and other groups have done shipping and studying the Bible, even Golden Rule—“Do to others what you over the centuries deprives those in other though we will not come to a corporate want them to do to you” (Matthew 7:12)— camps from the knowledge and feelings conclusion on the truth of the matter is an example of this (see chart previous of the separating group, impoverishing anytime soon, or perhaps not at all. page). Jesus’ two great commandments— all. Ideally, everyone in the human family So what is truth? In the postmodern “Love the Lord your God with all your would take part in this conversation, add- era, many have given up on finding abso- heart and with all your soul. Love him with ing to the harmonies and dissonances, lute truth, but we still have truth to share all your strength and with all your mind.’ not finding a final truth, but all work- with those around us: And, ‘Love your neighbour as you love ing towards current approximations of yourself’ ” (Luke 10:25-28)—is a Jewish/ truth that future conversation partners • God is. Christian summary of the same. in future generations would continue • God wants to be in relationship with to develop. This is very similar to what us. At the Mennonite Church Canada indigenous people are asking of settler • God wants to grow us in the image biennial assembly in Winnipeg this sum- people in Canada: Learn to listen to each of Jesus. mer, Betty Pries called on participants to other even with deep differences. turn to contemplative life, surrendering Willard Metzger, executive director We can’t claim to base this on revela- to God all of their lives; abiding in Christ, of MC Canada, spoke passionately at tion from the Bible alone, even though allowing God to free them from their this summer’s assembly of a unity that we continue to treasure the Bible as a attachments to anything other than God; was not based on finding “the truth.” source of truth. We have to be able to and to incarnate Christ in their lives. This With individuals, congregations and share from our individual and corporate directly parallels Armstrong’s findings area churches in very different places on lives how we know this to be true. We from her study of the Abrahamic faiths. the topic of full inclusion of practising have to live it. l Living truth In his book Fractured Dance, Michael King looks at Hans-Georg Gadamer’s ΛΛFor discussion thinking about how to communicate when we disagree deeply, and how to find 1. Where would you place yourself and your congregation: believing in absolute truth when we cannot rely on those in truths, wondering if there really is any truth, or somewhere in between? Do you agree power to give it to us, nor can we depend that many Christians are finding they need a new way to think about faith? solely on what has been revealed. All 2. Can you live with the idea that, on many topics, truth might be hard or impossible revelation is interpreted from within the to find? How do you feel thinking about this? If there is no universally recognized paradigm of the interpreter, including absolute truth, how does that change the church’s mission? the very act of translating a text from its original language. 3. Karen Armstrong suggests that God works from the inside out to influence and Gadamer, a 20th-century Christian change people. Betty Pries has called for contemplative surrender, abiding in Christ philosopher, believed that there had and incarnating Jesus. How are these approaches similar? Do you think Pries’s call to be better ways to communicate in for a contemplative life is the right direction for the church to go? order to form communities. Instead of 4. Willard Metzger says that we need to find a unity that is not based on finding “the apologizing for our prejudices, Gadamer truth.” Is unity without a common understanding of truth possible? What practical suggested that we offer them as a kind measures do you or the church need to take in order to have this kind of unity? of gift to those with whom we disagree. We also receive their prejudices as a gift —By Dave Rogalsky and Barb Draper from them, given to help us grow in our Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 9

Viewpoints EE Communitas follows in the footsteps of L’Arche founder ΛΛReaders write Re: “Good work” and “Differently gifted,” Sept. 1, We welcome your comments and publish most letters sent pages 4 and 8. by subscribers intended for publication. This section is I am writing to thank you for your recent articles by largely an open forum for the sharing of views. Letters are Jason Reimer Greig and Will Braun. the opinion of the writer only—publication does not mean Jean Vanier has been an inspiration and mentor to endorsement by the magazine or the church. Keep letters many, including the staff and board at Communitas to 400 words or less and address issues rather than indi- Supportive Care Society in Abbotsford, B.C. His viduals. We do not countenance rancour or animosity. philosophy of person-centred care and inclusion has Personal attacks are inappropriate and will not see the guided our organization as we support families and light of print. Please send letters to be considered for publi- people living with developmental and intellectual dis- cation to [email protected] or by postal mail abilities, mental health challenges and acquired brain or fax, marked “Attn: Readers Write” (our address is on injuries. page 3). Letters should include the author’s contact infor- Braun indicated he had “found no evidence mation and mailing address. Letters are edited for length, of church groups speaking out on this topic.” style and adherence to editorial guidelines. Preference will Communitas was, in fact, founded 40 years ago be given to letters from MC Canada congregants. because of pastors who responded to families in their (Continued on page 10)

From Our Leaders through my favourite periodical, Canadian Mennonite, I would have to say “yes.” Our MC Canada communications team also plays a role in sharing these Connecting passions voices through various media that con- Vic Thiessen nect our members and congregations with each other and with the work of the art of my role in overseeing Assemblies have changed a lot over national church. Mennonite Church Canada’s as- the years, even in this decade. Most As I leave my work at MC Canada, part Psemblies includes reading every people support our shorter biennial of which included oversight of communi- word on assembly feedback forms. As I assemblies, but I miss having more time cations and serving as the official liaison to reviewed the 128 forms we received this for conversation. Indeed, I even miss the Canadian Mennonite, I am convinced that year—a record number—I was struck by once-frequent, heated debates from the it will remain a priority for the national how often people stressed the import- floor. These debates may have sparked church to help our members and congre- ance of being together as anger and tension, but they were also an gations across Canada stay connected. members of our national indication of how passionately people It has been an incredible privilege to faith community. Despite felt about the work of the national work for MC Canada these past 12-and- the fact that most attendees church and its calling in the world. I still a-half years, first as a Witness worker were delegates, they did not find people who are passionate about in the U.K. and then at the office in come to Winnipeg to talk the church­—many here at the office in Winnipeg. Networking and a passion for business, regardless of how important Winnipeg—but that passion is usually God’s reign were central to that work. that might be. They came to be together. expressed in restrained ways and in safe My prayer for each of you is that you stay I have had the privilege of attending many settings, like assembly feedback forms. connected to the friends and congre- assemblies during the past four decades Perhaps it is simply a sign of the times, gations that are part of your national with MC Canada and her predecessor, the but are we losing something? church community and that you remain Conference of Mennonites in Canada. I Jesus’ passionate nature was revealed passionate about the extraordinarily vital never went as a delegate. I went because I most clearly in his prophetic role as he call you have received to be faithful fol- was excited to be part of this national church challenged those who missed the point lowers of Jesus. God bless you all! body and because I wanted to stay connect- about what God’s calling for the people ed with the people I would find there, from of God actually looked like. Do we in MC Vic Thiessen will leave his positions as friends to professors and church leaders who Canada allow room for that passionate MC Canada’s CAO and minister of have taught me so much. prophetic voice to be heard today? Reading Church Engagement on Nov. 28. 10 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

(Continued from page 9) should have a population of people living with dis- congregations who asked, “Who will care for our abilities disproportionate to the rest of society. The children?” Their vision of faith-based, non-institution- church has an opportunity to be a place where there alized care for their children has informed our vision can be abundant life for people of all abilities. to be “communities of fully human, interdependent We recognize that there are congregations who citizens.” embrace this opportunity. Our prayer is that we can One of my colleagues recently said that if we are all experience the grace of which Reimer Greig writes, truly modelling our lives after Jesus, then our churches and we are grateful that your magazine has created

God, Money and Me That’s a lot of money! Sherri Grosz designated gift, you should ensure that remember a special gift from my of money is waiting. This can lead to a the church will be able to meet the desig- Grandpa: a $20 bill in a Christmas rushed process or poor decisions, and nation requirements both now and in the Icard. It came with one instruction: has even caused battles in some churches future. Grandpa had to see my purchase. It was when agreement can’t be reached over MFC has an online bequest discussion a lot of money for a 10-year old! It was how to use the legacy gift. paper available at MennoFoundation. the first time I’d had that much money, Bequest policies should indicate which ca/downloads/bequests.pdf and our and I was a little concerned about using it council, board or committee can accept consultants are available to meet with wisely. It took a few weeks to decide, but the bequest. Who makes the decision churches that wish to create, update or eventually Grandpa was shown a sweater may vary depending on the size of the review a bequest policy. Individuals, and a few books. gift; perhaps the finance committee can couples or families wishing to explore Although what we consider a lot of accept a smaller bequest, while the board gifts to the church or other charities can money will vary with age, stage of life or council may need to approve larger also benefit from meeting with MFC to and experience, receiving a sizeable gift gifts. The policy should also indicate discuss their wishes and to receive free of cash can cause headaches and stress types of gifts the church will not accept counsel regarding the best way to make not only for individuals, but also for and who will have the final decision to the gift. churches. A bequest, which is a gift given refuse a bequest. While receiving a lot of unexpected through a person’s will, is the most com- Designated bequests are gifts with money—whatever the amount may mon way for churches to receive a large strings attached. Generally, the gift be—can cause stress, it can also bring op- or unexpected amount of money. An undesignated bequest is a gift with The policy should also indicate types of gifts no strings attached or the church will not accept and who will have detailed instructions in the donor’s will. Churches the final decision to refuse a bequest. should have a bequest policy that will govern how undesignated bequests will be handled. By having such comes with instructions in the will and portunities, allow us to cast new visions a policy, decisions are made in advance indicates the gift must be used for a and begin conversations. and there is a set process in place. In specific purpose. If the church cannot— addition, having a bequest policy can or decides not to—meet the designation Sherri Grosz is a stewardship consultant lead to further bequests, as people may requirements, it must refuse the gift. in the Kitchener, Ont., office of Mennonite feel more comfortable leaving gifts to Neither the estate trustees, nor surviving Foundation of Canada (MFC). For more the church since they know how these family or church members can change information on impulsive generosity, stew- gifts will be handled. Churches without a designation in a will. As the donor is ardship education, and estate and chari- policies are sometimes faced with trying deceased, only the courts can authorize table gift planning, contact your nearest to make decisions while a large amount an alternate use. If you wish to leave a MFC office or visit MennoFoundation.ca. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 11

space to tell these stories. EE Those who feel impulse to Karyn Santiago, Abbotsford, B.C. rape need to find help

Karyn Santiago is chief executive officer of Re: “End rape culture: a Mennonite perspective,” Communitas Supportive Care Society. Sept. 1, page 36, and “Talk of ‘rape culture’ forces men to deal with their lust” letter, Sept. 15, page 13. Thank you to Rachel Bergen for bringing up this (Continued on page 12)

Family Ties

boastful in I Corinthians 13:4. The deadly sin of pride Of course, there are variations on pride and humility. We might recall examples Melissa Miller of false pride and false humility. Some of us may be guilty of a kind of pride by ride goeth before a fall, I ruefully • Pride says I am better than others. hiding our gifts and refusing to take risks. thought last month, as I limped Humility says I respect others’ qualities. We may couch it in humble terms, but Paway from the place where I had • Pride says I am the source of my accom- really it’s borne out of misplaced fear, taken a nasty tumble. plishments. Humility says I have been even pride. “I’m not showy, like Martha,” I fell in the Detroit airport just before blessed with gifts that I use for the good we might think. Or, “I’m not one to toot stepping onto the huge, four-storey esca- of the community. my own horn, like Ben does.” lator. Just after glancing at a slow-moving • Pride says I am self-sufficient. Humility I wonder about the stories of Esther couple a decade or two older than me, recognizes the web of life-giving connec- and Mary in the Bible. Could Esther who appeared to be heading to the eleva- tions, of which I am a small part. have thwarted the plot to kill her people tor, and smugly thinking—I confess with if she had denied the power she pos- embarrassment—“I am fit. I don’t need Pride is such a natural human ten- sessed? Could Mary have birthed and the elevator.” dency, and so deadly. “Pride is the first nurtured Jesus if she had refused to use Then kaboom, the tip of my sandal sin, the source of all other sins, and her physical and spiritual gifts? Or Jesus: caught the floor and I pitched forward, the worst sin,” said theologian Thomas Could he have accomplished what he did falling hard on my left shin, so hard that Aquinas. Like other sins, pride draws us without a keen sense of his own abilities, I couldn’t readily stand and needed help into ourselves and blinds us to the needs and the courage to use them? to regain my balance. Help I received of others, and to our place of inter- Paul’s advice to the Galatians (6:4-5) from that same older couple and a clean- dependency in the community. Humility is worth pondering: “Make a careful ex- ing person, who insisted that I take the elevator. Our work—the way we are using our Chastened and stunned God-given gifts—done with humility and with pain, I complied. Yes, sometimes pride goes commitment can be a source of true pride. before a fall, literally. Fortunately, the pain was short-lived opens us up to remembering God as the ploration of who you are and the work you and the injury didn’t interfere with my source of all gifts. Humility frees us to have been given, and then sink yourself normal activity. I was heading to my claim our rightful place in God’s world, into that. Don’t be impressed with your- mother’s that day. When I arrived and as beneficiaries of God’s gifts, to use in self. Don’t compare yourself with others. told her of the incident, she sympathized service to God’s purposes. Each of you must take responsibility for and then cheerfully offered, “I’ve got a The Bible has quite a bit to say about doing the creative best you can with your knee brace if you need it, or a cane, or pride. The oft-quoted phrase I recalled own life” (The Message). a walker.” My mother has experienced after my tumble is found in Proverbs some mobility challenges, and her good 16:18. Jesus’ parables often touched on Melissa Miller ([email protected]) humour reflected the humility that she pride, including the one about the proud lives in Winnipeg. She is wrapped in the has wisely cultivated. Pharisee and the humble sinner in Luke family ties of daughter, sister, wife, mother, Humility is the antidote to pride: 18. And Paul reminds us that love is not friend and pastor. 12 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

(Continued from page 11) be boys and just can’t help themselves. important topic, for sharing her own experiences of If we are going to have a conversation about lust or sexual harassment and for giving other women an oppor- rape, there needs to be equality. Please refer to mature tunity to do so as well. We need to listen to these stories. females as women and mature males as men. It’s important for me, as a man, to recognize that I Virginia Reimer, Toronto am part of rape culture simply by virtue of being male in a society in which sexual violence against women is frequently normalized and excused. EE Generational, gender shifts I also applaud Marcus Rempel’s honesty in acknowl- good for Conrad Grebel edging his complicity in rape culture and his willing- ness to be part of the solution. Re: “Generational shift at Conrad Grebel But I think that the comment made by Rempel’s University College,” Sept. 29, page 29. co-worker in the letter reinforces a false belief. I agree Six men and one woman replaced by three men and with Rempel that the majority of heterosexual men four women: that’s a positive sign also, indicating that experience sexual attraction towards women and that not only is a generational shift occurring, but so is a it’s our responsibility to figure out how to channel balancing of genders. Good for Conrad Grebel. that energy in ways that are positive and, above all, The next step might be a shift towards a faculty that respectful towards women. But I don’t believe there’s tries to represent global Anabaptism, and by that I do anything natural about the impulse to act violently or not mean to assume anything by the last names listed coercively towards women. in the article. To suggest that sexual violence is a natural male Randolph Haluza-DeLay impulse perpetuates the myth that sexually stimulated (online comment) men don’t have full control over their actions—“boys will be boys”—and that the onus is on women to pro- E tect themselves from unwanted sexual attention. E The church is alive around the world Sexual desire is natural; sexual violence is not. Any male who feels an impulse to, in the words of Rempel’s Re: “Where are we headed?” editorial, Sept. 15, co-worker, “rape every attractive female [he sees],” page 2. needs to find help. There is no question that the church is changing. As Josiah Neufeld (online comment) I travel around the world, the Christian church and our beloved Mennonite church are alive. I often feel so blessed to participate in worship services in Ethiopia, EE Reader inspired by Mennonite Vietnam or Peru. The church is alive. I feel the Spirit of ministries, service agencies Christ. As I said to another tour member at a worship service in Vietnam, “Do you feel the Spirit of Christ in I was inspired once again as I was reading about this place?” the many ways in which the Mennonite church is We in Canada and North America have much involved in its various ministries/agencies, both in to learn from our brothers and sisters in the global Canada and around the world. Thank you for provid- church. For many of them, their energy is used in ing these examples via Canadian Mennonite. facing persecution, harassment and imprisonment by Marge Unger, Cambridge, Ont. their governments, or caring for other members of their church family who struggle for survival. I grieve that our church in North America is spend- EE Gender equality needed if ing so much energy on keeping members of our we are to talk about rape church family out, rather than focussing on welcoming them, as Ryan Dueck outlined so well in his feature, Re: “Talk of ‘rape culture’ forces men to deal with “Are we one?” on page 2 of the same issue. their lust” letter, Sept. 15, page 13. Wilmer Martin, Waterloo, Ont. First, there is a huge difference between lust and rape. Both men and women experience lust, but as we Do you know of mature we have learned not to “get carried away.” Rape someone in your is something different. Rape is about anger and power. congregation not getting Canadian Mennonite? Second, I take issue with Marcus Rempel’s patron- Ask your church administrator to add izing tone. He refers to women as “ladies,” and then in them to the list. It is already paid for. the next sentence he refers to “us boys,” as if boys will Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 13

Life in the Postmodern Shift Pastor’s Journey From Faith to Doubt. In it, he chronicles his long transition from answers and certainty to a “faith that wavers, faith that questions, faith that is Faith vs. belief (Pt. 1) not sure.” Troy Watson For years, Frank Schaeffer, son of Francis Schaeffer, the famous 20th- curious lyric caught my atten- the obstacles to belief increased exponen- century theologian, has been promoting tion as I was listening to “Don’t tially the more he studied the evidence. a faith that simultaneously believes and ASwallow the Cap,” a Bob Ripley, a doesn’t believe. The title of his most re- song by The National, a melan- retired United cent book says it all: Why I am an Atheist cholic indie rock band: “I have Church min- Who Believes in God. faith but don’t believe it.” ister and faith Two summers ago, I ran into a col- What a strange concept: faith columnist, came league and we decided to catch up over without beliefs. It sounds like out as an atheist a coffee. When I asked him about his nonsense on the surface, but a few weeks faith journey, he responded, “I’m in total could there be such a thing as ago. You can free-fall.” He had read a few books that faith beyond belief? I realize this read all about it knocked the theological ground out from type of postmodern “drivel” can in his upcom- under his feet. Since then, he has opted be tiresome, even infuriating, ing book, Life out of ministry. I was disturbed by this for modern-minded believers. Beyond Belief: news. He was a fantastic pastor whom Yet, as the 21st century unfolds, A Preacher’s I looked up to and admired. I can’t help I meet more and more people Deconversion. but wonder if doubting pastors like my who share this kind of paradox- The list goes colleague might have an important place ical faith unfettered by beliefs. on, but not all and voice in the 21st-century church. Why is this happening and what does it post-Christians lose their faith entirely. I’m no longer surprised when I hear mean? Some describe their “new” faith as an about a mature Christian struggling with There is evidence that the decline of evolution beyond the conventional or abandoning certain Christian beliefs. Christianity and church attendance in Christian belief system. What I find interesting and inspiring is Canada is directly related to the rise in One of my friends left the ministry that so many of them still have faith. education levels over the past half-century. more than 10 years ago for a number of This growing reality has caused me to Education is one of the highest values of reasons, including his struggle with the ponder certain questions: our society, and naturally this has affected how we view matters of faith and spiritual- Two summers ago, I ran into a colleague ity. We’ve been acculturated to question what we’ve been taught to believe, and this and we decided to catch up over coffee. has clearly been a factor in the exodus of When I asked him about his faith journey, young people from the church. However, the people who most rigorously study he responded, ‘I’m in total free-fall.’ church history, theology and the Bible struggle with their Christian beliefs as narrowness of Christian doctrine. He told much as inquisitive teenagers. me if he had to wear a label now, it would • Can people have faith without know- Bart Ehrman, one of the leading New be “agnostic mystic.” He explained, “I’m ing what they believe? Testament scholars in the world, has mystic because I’ve experienced the ‘divine • How can believers engage in mutual been sharing his reasons for leaving the presence’ so deeply it remains the greatest faith exploration with people who have evangelical faith and becoming an atheist truth in my life. But I’m agnostic because “faith beyond belief”? in most of his best-selling books over the I don’t know. I don’t who or what this • How can we “believ-ers” be hospit- past 15 years. presence is—because I can’t know. ‘G-d’ able and give voice to the “faith-ers” in Another Bart made news recently by is infinite, mysterious, beyond human our churches? revealing he is no longer a Christian. The comprehension. None of us can know.” former pastor and son of Tony Campolo, John Suk, a former Christian Reformed To be continued . . . . the famous preacher, now serves as a Church (CRC) pastor, recently retired as humanist chaplain at the University of editor of The Banner, the official maga- Troy Watson ([email protected]) is Southern California. His reasons for leav- zine of the CRC, in the wake of publish- pastor of Avon Mennonite Church in ing Christianity were familiar; namely, ing a book in 2011 entitled Not Sure: A Stratford, Ont. 14 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

Remembrance Day Reflection family who now mean so much to me. The clock is part of that legacy, having come with a family from Ukraine as they Legacy of ‘the clock’ fled. It was repaired by my father-in-law and now marks time faithfully. Dawne Driedger The unconditional love and peace of- fered to me in my husband-to-be’s family ome time ago, when my father- After a time of wrestling with the ques- home are the heritage of these faithful in-law was updating his will, he tions these Mennonites had proposed people—“faithful” not because they are Sasked his children whether there to me, I made the decision to leave the so perfect, but because they faithfully was anything in the house that they military. I left for a number of reasons, passed on their love and devotion to the would like to have after he was gone. My one being that I was unable to justify most Faithful One. thoughts immediately went to a clock taking part in a system that might call me As a mom and a pastor, I do my best to that has hung in his home ever since I can to participate in taking the life of another share the gifts God has given to me and remember. created in the image of God. do my part to carry on this legacy. This I married into this family, but this clock I heard the stories of the men and family clock is witness to the best of what carries special memories for me. My women who came to live in Ukraine has sifted down to the next generation husband grew up in a Russian Mennonite due to a decision not to take part in the through the faith stories of the Russian community of faith. I did not. I met him military. I listened to the pain of the Mennonite people. on a blind date. revolution that scarred their memories I offer this poem to share with others At the time, I was serving in the mil- and tore them from loved ones and their who may have experienced what I itary. You can imagine the discussions we land. I heard the testimonies of both loss have been blessed to receive from our had, him having grown up with a pacifist and restoration as they escaped to North Mennonite heritage. perspective. I can tell you that my faith America and eventually to Leamington, was challenged in many ways by these Ont., and the struggle to put down roots Dawne Driedger is cur- discussions. in a place where the culture and language rently interim minister of I met his pastor, who challenged me was so strange. Throughout were threads Milverton (Ont.) Mennonite as well, in a loving and respectful way. of hope and faith in the midst of darkness Fellowship. Eventually, I met his family, and although and doubt. they disapproved of my choice of em- Their legacy is the quiet faith of this ployment, they were always loving and gracious towards me. The clock is part of that legacy, having come with a The clock hung above the fireplace family from Ukraine as they fled. It was repaired by mantle, its chimes adding a faithful song to the hospitality. my father-in-law and now marks time faithfully.

The Clock it tells of new generations . . . By Dawne Driedger moving forward, life from the ashes, including my story— there is a clock that hangs by the fireplace at Opa’s house a stranger welcomed in with kind- it tells of hiding and fear . . . ness, patience, and more than enough love to share held closely by victims of a revolution it tells the glory of God . . . it tells of flight and hope . . . tick, tock, ticking the infinite faith- carried with refugees on a boat to a strange land fulness of the One called Love, it tells of perseverance and gratitude . . . the reorienting mercy and grace of the perfect Friend, embracing a new life despite the setbacks of a foreign and restoring power of the Holy culture and tongue Life-Changer Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 15

ΛΛMilestones Births/Adoptions Martens—Julius, 88 (b. Feb. 23, 1926; d. Sept. 5, 2014), First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Dwight—Silas Chandran Edgar (b. Aug. 9, 2014), to Prabo Pauls—Peter, 91 (b. Aug. 8, 1922; d. July 2, 2014), First and Shauna-Lee Dwight, North Leamington United Mennonite, Winnipeg. Mennonite, Leamington, Ont. Schroeder—Irmgard (nee Unger), 85 (b. July 11, 1929; d. Grunau—Annika Louise Schellenberg (b. Sept. 23, 2014), to Aug. 6, 2014), First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Miriam Schellenberg and Brian Grunau, Langley Mennonite, Steinman—Walter, 93 (b. Sept. 5, 1921; d. Sept. 30, 2014), B.C. Steinmann Mennonite, Baden, Ont. Renwick—Alexander Thomas (b. Sept. 20, 2014), to Justin Wagler—Lester, 79 (b. May 27, 1935; d. Sept. 29, 2014), and Jenna Renwick, North Leamington United Mennonite, Crosshill Mennonite, Millbank, Ont. Leamington, Ont. Wall—Charlotte (nee Buller), 90 (b. April 30, 1924; d. Aug. Schulz—Brynlee Kait (b. Sept. 23, 2014), to Tim and Kaitlin 19, 2014), First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Shulz, Vineland United Mennonite, Ont. Woelk—Jakob, 82 (b. April 26, 1932; d. July 15, 2014), First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Baptisms Canadian Mennonite welcomes Milestones Ruthie Clark—Avon Mennonite, Stratford, Ont., Sept. 28, announcements within four months of the event. Please 2014, at Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp, New Hamburg, Ont. send Milestones announcements by e-mail to milestones@ canadianmennonite.org, including the congregation name Marriages and location. When sending death notices, please also include birth date and last name at birth if available. Braun/ Epp—Terra-Lyn Braun and Jonathan Epp, Hague Mennonite, Sask., Oct. 4, 2014. Burdge/Tober—Stacy Burdge and Jon Tober, Kelowna First Mennonite, B.C., Sept. 27, 2014. Doerksen/Rapchuk—Kara Doerksen and Chris Rapchuk, Hague Mennonite, Sask., Sept. 20, 2014. Epp/Neudorf—Cherisse Epp and Dakota Neudorf, Hague Mennonite, Sask., Sept. 6, 2014. Jorritsma/Wenger—Stephanie Jorritsma (First Mennonite, Edmonton) and Tim Wenger (River of Life, Kitchener, Ont.), at Sargent Avenue Mennonite, Winnipeg, Oct. 4, 2014. Klassen/Peters—Kristen Klassen and Jeffrey Peters, Douglas Mennonite, Winnipeg, Sept. 19, 2014. McFadyen/Miller—Dillon McFadyen and Bethany Miller, Hague Mennonite, Sask., Oct. 4, 2014. Olfert/Wiens—Jill Olfert (Mount Royal Mennonite, Saskatoon) and Curtis Wiens (Herschel Ebenfeld Mennonite, Sask.), at Shekinah Retreat Centre, Waldheim, Sask., Aug. 31, 2014. Petkau/Sieminska—Justin Petkau (Carman Mennonite, Man.) and Sylwia Sieminska, in Carman, Sept. 13, 2014.

Deaths

Block—Betty, 94 (b. Oct. 26, 1919; d. Sept. 24, 2014), Vineland United Mennonite, Ont. Dyck—Sybil (nee Dubord), 87 (b. April 8, 1927; d. Sept. 1, 2014), First Mennonite, Winnipeg. Grant—Holly, 82 (b. Aug. 30, 1931; d. Aug. 11, 2014), Hoffnungsfelder Mennonite, Glenbush, Sask. Kasdorf—Isaak, 96 (b. April 1, 1918; d. Aug. 3, 2014), First Mennonite, Winnipeg. 16 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

God at work in the Church people. A pacifist Mennonite church will not draw Catholic war vets. But if you Viewpoint make your boundaries too porous, as con- ference organizer Royden Loewen noted in a later interview, you run the risk of Lessons from those who left losing your centre and identity altogether. Conference considers ex-Mennos This is the dilemma of community and identity played out in a thousand wars, By Will Braun reformations and excommunications, and Senior Writer in at least one Hutterite-farmer-turned- mega-church-minister. hil Kleinsasser urged the faith- the back. She told of people who found How, for instance, do we identify as ful to “sow” their money in the an antidote to legalism, permission to nonviolent without causing the pain Poffering plate in order to “reap” embrace the ever-changing urban ethos, experienced by the Mennonite Second abundance in all areas of their lives. physical healing and acceptance of nose World War vets who started Altona Kleinsasser, of course, is a Hutterite rings—in short, a place of belonging. (Man.) United Church upon rejection by surname, but his admonition came not in “Love, accept, forgive” is a Springs motto. their Mennonite churches, as presenter an austere colony chapel, but at Springs Not surprisingly, one person asked a Conrad Stoesz explained? How can we be Church, one of Canada’s most successful question that presumed Springs does distinct without being prideful? and success-oriented mega-churches, little to help the disenfranchised. His Or perhaps distinction is the wrong where Kleinsasser—his suspenders, critical inclination matched my own in- goal. Paul Doerksen of Canadian beard and plaid long gone—serves as an itial impulse to mentally shun. My more Mennonite University, Winnipeg, assistant pastor. considered response was to ask what said we are preoccupied with defining That was the image with which Kate posture we Mennonites assume, or ought what a Mennonite is and what makes Bowler, a professor at Duke Divinity to assume, in relation to other churches, Mennonites distinct. He implied we School and author of Blessed: A History of other faiths, “the world” and those among should get over ourselves. the American Prosperity Gospel (Oxford, us who opt for one of those paths. In a related presentation, Paul Martens 2013), began her presentation to the The stories of those who leave us, of Baylor University in Texas, argued Ex-Mennonite/Near Mennonite either by choice or de facto banning, raise that, as part of a process of consolidating Conference hosted in October by a more fundamental question: Mennonite identity around the things the chair in Mennonite Studies at the we do that make us different, a string of University of Winnipeg. • How do we create and maintain com- Mennonite heavy hitters—specifically Bowler estimates that ex-Anabaptists munity—one of humanity’s most basic Harold Bender, John Howard Yoder and form the largest ethnic minority in and complicated endeavours—without J. Denny Weaver—have over-simplified the well-padded pews at Springs, even hurting people, that is, non-violently? the rich Anabaptist history into a narrow though the church could hardly be less and very human-centred focus, which Anabaptist, with its rock star pastor up As soon as a group identifies in some includes discipleship, “brotherhood” and front and holy Starbucks look-alike at way, by definition it excludes certain the politics of nonviolence. Martens takes the argument further, PHOTO © BY COLIN VANDENBERG to say that this circumscribed focus has made Mennonite theology superfluous, but the more basic point, identical to Doerksen’s, is that we should focus less on ourselves and more on God. We’re not as unique as we think. The Mennonite legacy contains many interconnected, organic layers, not just a few star tenets. And the starting point should be what God does, not what we do. Realizing this should make us more open to reach out over the “social chasm” that Loewen says tends to separate Springs Church in Winnipeg is one of Canada’s most successful and success-oriented Mennonites from those who have left us. mega churches, where an ex-Hutterite, Phil Kleinsasser—his suspenders, beard and The Mennonite tendency to stake out plaid long gone—serves as an assistant pastor. a unique identity is understandable. We Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 17

are scattered across the globe in an era of dizzying change, held together by neither a geographic nor an administrative cen- tre. No Pope. No Mecca. The pressures of assimilation—the ultimate enemy of Precise. distinctiveness—pullDRAFT on us with a force as inescapable as gravity. Target your giving to benefit the That’s what makes the Springs case charities you choose. Pinpoint the interesting. It is the apex of assimilation, with the possible exception of complete timing to be the most effective non-belief. Anabaptist participation at for both you and the charity. Springs represents one logical conclusion of the gradual path of acculturation on which the majority of us—whether black bumper or buffed bumper types—find ourselves. How do we respond? With defensive- We can help. Our professional ness, judgement, fear, grace, openness? staff work to keep your aim true. If distinct identity is the bottom line, there is little to be said about Kleinsasser, or Call any time for a free consultation. the esteemed Muslim leader Elma Harder, who spoke of her path from a Mennonite farm to Islam, other than that they are wrong. The conference, by its nature, 1-800-772-3257 invited a softer, more engaged response. MennoFoundation.ca The original Anabaptists most cer- tainly set themselves apart from the dom- inant religious practice of their day. But what they critiqued, in large part, was the GIC Special claim made by a segment of the church to a corner on truth. They critiqued the Good things * blind guarding of a legacy. .90% Our calling is not to guard the come in FREEs! 18 month term Anabaptist legacy or claim theological *Rate subject to change high ground. Our history and character 1 are gifts of God, but not ecclesial trump FREE Transfer cards. We must be open to the gifts God Now is a great time to invest with MSCU! Until 1 has given others, which can serve as cor- November 28th we will cover your transfer out fees up to $150. rectives for us. FREE Plan To allow Yoder back into the discussion, Our Investment team doesn’t work on commission. We help you we need to believe that weakness, not create a personalized financial plan that aligns with your values distinctiveness, wins. We must resist the and individual goals. urge to try to steer the Mennonite legacy toward a particular position or end. FREE Portfolio Imagine having your documents - from your birth certificate and After the one conference attendee tax returns to your investments and mortgage - all in one place. asked the question about Springs’ Our new portfolio binders keep all of your important files organized. presumed neglect of the marginalized, Harold Janz, a Mennonite Brethren elder, Create your personalized plan with MSCU today! gently encouraged us consider the mega- church’s sizeable donations to Mennonite www.mscu.com Central Committee and the admirable work it does in Winnipeg’s personal care 1.888.672.6728 homes. He did not condone the prosper- ity gospel preached there, but he didn’t 1 Applies to deposits of $50,000 or more. Some additional conditions may apply; speak with a member of our Investment team for details. let us get away with sitting too smug. l 18 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

‘I can’t give God any less than my best’ Speed skater, hockey player and basketball coach speak of the roles faith and sport have played in their lives

Story and Photo by Dave Rogalsky Eastern Canada Correspondent WATERLOO, ONT.

hen I run, I feel his pleasure,” discipline, how to deal with Canadian Olympic speed-skating medallist Cindy “Wsaid Eric Liddell in the 1981 failure, and how to be a serv- Klassen responds to a question from moderator Greg movie, Chariots of Fire. ant leader do, he said. Yantzi of Mennonite Central Committee Ontario Cindy Klassen, six-time Canadian Klassen spoke of how during a panel discussion on faith and sports at RIM Olympic speed-skating medallist, echoed family and faith have kept her Park in Waterloo, Ont., on Oct. 4. Liddell when she said, “I can’t give God grounded in her career as an any less than my best,” at Waterloo’s RIM amateur athlete. She is now Park on Oct. 4 as part of a panel discus- finishing her undergrad degree that she would not be missing both worship and sion on sports and faith co-sponsored by began in the mid-1990s before dedicat- Sunday school in order to play hockey as Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) ing herself to her sport. But throughout, children, although this rule was loosened Ontario and Mennonite Church Eastern she has maintained a regular prayer and up as they reached their mid-teens. Canada. Scripture-reading practice, as well as at- At the end of the presentations and Klassen, together with Brad Schlegel, a former NHL player and Olympic hock- All three expressed the perspective that, while winning ey medallist, and Suzanne DeGroot, a is great, as Christian athletes doing their best every University of Waterloo and Athletes in Action basketball coach, answered ques- time they compete is actually more important. tions from mediator Greg Yantzi of MCC Ontario and a crowd of sports and faith tending worship when she could. panel discussion, youths, parents and enthusiasts. Both she and Schlegel spoke of their grandparents crowded around Klassen for All three expressed the perspective parents making it clear that their children autographs and photos. l that, while winning is great, as Christian athletes doing their best every time they compete is actually more important. Schlegel, who played for the NHL’s ΛΛStaff changes Washington Capitals and Calgary Flames, Bergen to take on CAO role following Thiessen’s departure as well as the 1992 and ’94 Canadian Mens Olympic Hockey teams, spoke of losing WINNIPEG—Staffing shifts at the executive leadership level at as having played his best against someone the Mennonite Church Canada offices in Winnipeg will see Dave else who had played his best as well. Bergen, executive minister of Christian Formation, take on the DeGroot, who works for a Christian additional responsibility of chief administrative officer (CAO) organization as well as the University of while retaining his key responsibilities in Formation. The shift was Waterloo, was not alone when she talked prompted by the departure of Vic Thiessen, CAO and executive about the opportunities to share faith minister of Church Engagement, effective Nov. 28. Thiessen says Vic Thiessen with others, both on her team and with that he and Willard Metzger, MC Canada’s executive director, mu- other teams, particularly when planning tually agreed to end Thiessen’s employment. “I have greatly appre- Christian worship for sports events. ciated Vic’s work, and support and wish him well in his new endeavours,” Metzger Schlegel also noted that sports has says. “I admire Vic’s forthrightness and his conscientious work ethic.” Metzger adds great opportunities to develop both good that he will be working with executive staff in the coming weeks to determine the and bad habits. Some of the lifestyle pos- implications on the program areas of Christian Formation and Church Engagement. sibilities practised by professional ath- —Mennonite Church Canada letes don’t suit Christians, but learning Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 19

Sexuality is about more than just sex Rockway Mennonite Collegiate focusses on sexuality in chapel series and public meeting

Story and Photo by Dave Rogalsky Eastern Canada Correspondent KITCHENER, ONT.

ockway Mennonite Collegiate decid- ranking parents and church 9th and 10th Red that not only did it need to focus out of 10, respectively. on sexuality for its students in grades 7 to He reminded the crowd that “sexual- 12, but it needed to invite the community, ity is, of course, far more than what we including Canadian Mennonite, to hear do with our genitalia. It’s about our full- what was being presented and to have an body selves, about embracing or critiquing opportunity to respond. gendered expectations, about living in and Keith Graber Miller, a professor of with our bodies, about love and connec- Keith Graber Miller, a professor of religion and sexuality at Goshen (Ind.) tion and attachment and friendship. It’s religion and sexuality at Goshen (Ind.) College, began his Oct. 1 public presenta- about men and women respecting the College, speaks to the public on ‘Faithful tion by giving a synopsis of what he had other sex as well as their own sex.” sexuality’ at Rockway Mennonite said in two earlier school chapels, includ- Parents wondered what the children Collegiate, Kitchener, Ont., on Oct. 1. ing “faithful, inclusive and shameless sexu- at Rockway had been asking and, while ality,” gender, sexuality, sexual practice and Graber Miller did not “out” any individual, His advice to parents is to begin talking [M]any youth do not see oral/genital sexual practice as about sex with toddlers and teaching that masturbation is good, but not public. ‘sex,’ reserving that for genital/genital sexual experiences. Car rides are his preferred place and time for talks about sex; not just “the talk,” today’s sexualized society. He bemoaned he noted that questions were asked about but many talks. His description of going in the early and depersonalized start to sex- when to begin dating, what expressions the same direction, eyes forward, a healthy ual practice in today’s society with the easy of sexuality were appropriate, and a sense space between the two in the conversation, availability of dehumanizing pornography from students about being different from and a captive audience, raised an apprecia- and the ubiquity of relationless sexual those in the public school system in regard tive laugh from the gathered group. l practice. to the practice of genital sex. He noted also Throughout, he practised a relaxed and that many youth do not see oral/genital open attitude towards any question that sexual practice as “sex,” reserving that for the gathered parents, pastors and stu- genital/genital sexual experiences. dents raised, leavening the evening with self-deprecating humour. Expressing an “inclusive sexuality” towards lesbian/gay/ bisexual/transgender/queer individuals, he spoke of the need for both ethics and inclu- sion. Using an encyclopedic knowledge of current trends and statistics, he answered each question with sincerity and clarity. For him, the key to “faithful sexuality” is open communication between parents, church and people of all ages, from tod- dlers through adulthood. Most teens tell surveys that they get most of their knowl- edge about sex from peers and the media, 20 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

God at work in the World like this, and would empathize with people and their suffering,” she said, noting that “Mennonites have their own stories of so much suffering, coming from Russia and ‘They are not alone’ Ukraine, that it is hard for me to understand why there is not more empathy, especially Manitoba Mennonites remember missing for something like murdered and missing and murdered indigenous women indigenous women and young girls.” Grace Mennonite Church in Steinbach By Evelyn Rempel Petkau is one church that responded to the Manitoba Correspondent open invitation put out by the Sisters in Spirit, a group from the Native Women’s n a very windy, cold and dark Oct. stated that 1,182 indigenous women have Association of Canada, that has held an- O3 night, Steve Heinrichs, director gone missing or have been murdered since nual vigils across Canada on Oct. 4 ever of indigenous relations for Mennonite the late 1980s or early ’90s. Heinrichs wants since Amnesty International shone a light Church Canada, and a few others strung Mennonite churches to sit up and recognize on the number of missing and murdered 20 dresses on fishing line on both sides that these murdered and missing girls and indigenous women. of the Esplanade Riel pedestrian bridge women are their sisters and daughters too. “This year, nine of us from Grace at- that spans the Red River near The Forks in Tina Fontaine, who made national tended the vigil at the legislative build- downtown Winnipeg. news when her body was discovered in ings,” said Kyle Penner, associate pastor. “We lifted up prayers before, during and August, lived in Heinrichs’ neighbour- Grace Mennonite has partnered with after, and hung the dresses as visible prayer hood. Heinrichs and his wife Ann have the Pauingassi community in northern signs that say, ‘Someone hears the cries of two adopted indigenous daughters and a Manitoba, and he said that relationship those mourning the missing and murdered biological son. The issue hits home for him. has prompted church members to look at indigenous women; someone will honour “They are my neighbours,” he said. “They ways of “standing in support and solidarity it,’ ” Heinrichs said. look like my girls.” because we believe that something in this “What if there were 100 missing Men- Melanie Kampen, a member of relationship between settler and indige- nonite women in Canada?” he wondered Springfield Heights Mennonite Church nous people is broken”. aloud. “What if there were 200 mur- in Winnipeg, said she joined the effort be- “Often you feel paralyzed by the enor- dered Mennonite girls? How would our cause “I wanted to do something to raise mity of an issue,” said Heinrichs. “We church community respond? What would awareness and act in solidarity with those need to nurture some kind of hope, so we we ask Mennonite Central Committee who are mourning and grieving the loss of don’t go into despair. This act of hanging to do? What would we demand of our their loved ones.” dresses is not going to change much, but if governments?” “I wish that the Mennonite community there are some people that see and know In June, a report released by the RCMP would pay a lot more attention to things that it is non-native people responding to

PHOTO BY CHRIS SWAN

Melanie Kampen camped out at the Native Women’s Protest site near the Manitoba Legislature in Winnipeg earlier this month, to protest the government’s lack of response to the 1,182 missing and murdered indigenous women from across Canada. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 21

PHOTO BY KIRA BURKETT

WORLD LEPROSY DAY JANUARY 25, 2015

Flowers are laid out on the Manitoba Legislature steps in Winnipeg in the pattern of a butterfly at the annual Oct. 4 vigil honouring the 1,182 missing and murdered indigenous women from across Canada. It was one of 130 vigils held this year.

indigenous cries for justice, that can be en- the issues that we hear today of missing couraging. They know they are not alone.” and murdered women, a lack of a real “As treaty people, we are a covenanted treaty relationship and ongoing questions people,” he continued. “I would like to see of jurisdiction over land at the core of our the church make indigenous concerns its work. . . . It begins with awareness and concerns. We need to find ways of putting deep lamentation.” l

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strengthened the team ministry aspect. Before, there was very little communica- Making the ‘Corner tion between the three of us, but here com- munication flows easily,” says Pauls. Connection’ in Carman “It feels like we are a team,” says Schellenberg in agreement. “We are more Carman Mennonite Church offices become a downtown ministry available to each other.” The church building, which sits at the Story and Photo by Evelyn Rempel Petkau north end of town on a busy highway, is Manitoba Correspondent used by several community groups dur- CARMAN, MAN. ing the week, but mostly it sits empty. The activity is all happening downtown at the even hundred metres makes all the when two or three people would drop by Corner Connection. Sdifference for Carman Mennonite the church.” Today, the offices receive any- “People have gotten used to this as a Church. Four years ago, the church de- where from 15 to 45 visitors a week, with place to stop in, whether they are members cided to move its offices out of the church an increasing number of non-members . . . or not,” says Schellenberg. “Sometimes building to a downtown location on one of and non-attenders dropping by. “We knew they come with specific concerns; some- the busier intersections in Carman. They the numbers would increase, but we had times they just want a listening ear; some- have aptly named the building “the Corner no idea by how much.” times they come to meet each other.” Connection.” With the extra traffic, Pauls says, “the The coffee pot is often on and the large Carman is a rural community of 3,000 challenge is to get our sermons written foyer with a table and chairs is a welcom- people. In the 1940s, Mennonites moved sometimes.” The church has given Pauls ing space. A large boardroom hosts many to this Anglo-Saxon area from Mennonite and Karen Schellenberg, the church’s other meetings and discussions. Not only is the communities to the south, looking for pastor since 2012, permission to work on building more accessible, but, Pauls says, work or farmland. In 1945, when the fam- their sermons at home on the Friday before “being a small town, if you parked your ilies were looking to purchase a church they preach. “We try to manage it by one car or truck outside the church, every- building or property on which to build a of us taking care of traffic while the other one would know you were there, but here church, the town was less than welcom- works with the door closed for awhile,” you’re not on public display. For non- ing. Hard feelings toward this group that says Schellenberg, “but we are both ‘people church people it is sometimes intimidat- refused to go to war—while the rest of people.’ It is our nature to want to be with ing to enter a church building. This is less the community suffered significant loss— the people.” threatening.” meant that Mennonites were banished to For Pauls and Pat Wiens, the administra- “I think the issues of the past no longer the outskirts of town to build their church. tive assistant, who remember working in exist,” Pauls concludes. “Being a Mennonite Today, that property lies within town the offices at the church, which were scat- in Carman has become more acceptable. limits, and while the downtown area is a tered into the far corners of the building, We have become more of an integral part very short distance away, the church con- this downtown office “has enhanced and of the community.” l tinues to feel removed from the hustle and bustle of weekday activity in town. Several events have worked to change the community’s attitude into one that embraces and welcomes Mennonites. In the 1970s, Carman suffered two major floods. Many homes and businesses were flooded, but each time when the waters re- ceded Mennonite Disaster Service moved in and mucked out the basements. During that decade, the Mennonites from Carman and surrounding communities opened the Carman Mennonite Central Committee Thrift Shop that today has volunteers representing a diverse cross-section of the community. Bob Pauls, pastor of Carman Mennonite Carman Mennonite administrative assistant Pat Wiens, left, and pastors Bob Pauls Church since 2000, says, “When the of- and Karen Schellenberg stand outside the Corner Connection, the church’s new of- fices were at the church, it was a good week fice space in the heart of town. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 23

PHOTO BY DAVE ROGALSKY

Violet Wakaba, left, Judy Shantz, Carla Helmuth and Tim Mbugua cook for a joint West Hills Mennonite Fellowship/Kenyan Global Church fundraising dinner on be- half of Pan African Christian Exchange (PACE) on Oct. 4 at Steinmann Mennonite Church in Baden, Ont. The $2,534 raised will be used for a church/school plant by PACE in Kenya for a nomadic tribal group. Helmuth, supported by West Hills in God work at in World the New Hamburg, Ont., has volunteered for PACE three times over the past four years, working at providing a retreat for PACE staff, doing office work, building a website and staffing a kids camp. Funds were raised through the dinner, a silent auction and

through the sale of crafts from Kenya. Snapshots

PHOTO BY AMY DUECKMAN

The Common Place Café opened for business on Oct. 8 in the new Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) B.C. Centre in Abbotsford. Open from Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., the new restaurant features various breakfast items and a lunch menu of signature borscht and other soups and sandwiches, along with muffins and desserts. The café and the staff offices for MCC B.C. were the first to open, with the thrift shop and Ten Thousand Villages retail outlets scheduled to open before the end of October. An official grand opening is scheduled for Dec. 6, pushed back from the original announced date of Oct. 25. 24 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014 Care for the Land

in contemporary Christian thinking about the troubled relationships of agriculture, ‘Shaping a environment and community in contem- porary North America. sustainable future’ According to Joanne Moyer, who spoke about her postdoctoral research at the AMBS conference grounds Christian discipleship to the land University of Toronto on the relationship between faith and environmental activ- Randolph Haluza-DeLay ism, Rooted and Grounded was one of Special to Canadian Mennonite the most enjoyable academic conferences ELKHART, IND. she’d attended. “There’s really nothing sillier than sitting in a classroom talking ven urban Mennonites lay claim to listeners with the idea about the land and never going outside,” Ean agrarian heritage. According to that being “unrooted, un- she said. Besides the classroom lectures, many speakers at Rooted and Grounded: grounded, is essential for participants could pick from one of 11 A Conference on Land and Christian consumptive capitalism,” afternoon field trips, including an Amish Discipleship, held last month at Anabaptist with all of its community- hydroponics farm, Goshen College’s Merry Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS), destroying characteristics. Lea Environmental Learning Center, ex- this is important despite the urbanity of S. Roy He emphasized the gifts amples of urban agriculture projects and most Mennonites and North Americans Kaufman that agrarian communities a canoe trip on the Elkhart River. in general. have “to shape a sustain- Sarah Thompson, the executive direc- More than 170 academics, farmers, pas- able future for the human tor of Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT), tors and laypeople gathered for dozens of family and to bring healing to this earth of was surprised to hear CPT referred to as presentations and three keynote lectures, God’s creation.” having an environmental element to its during which they discussed ways that In between, Ellen Davis, a professor of programs. “We are just realizing this our- agrarian and rural backgrounds need to Bible at Duke Divinity School in North selves,” she declared in her own session. be recovered and rethought, for reasons Carolina, reminded listeners that Scripture When Palestinians return to their homes of faithfulness to God and care of the repeatedly points out the expectations of and find decades-old olive trees uprooted, environment. a partnership between land, people and it is an issue that combines environment, According to Tim Wiebe-Neufeld, co- God. This three-way relationship proved peace, and the deepest spiritual and ma- pastor of First Mennonite in Edmonton, central to other presentations on topics terial needs of people. Thompson said CPT the final keynote lecture by Barbara such as local food, reclamation of dam- is starting to consider whether “undoing Rossing, professor of New Testament at aged environments, human-animal inter- ecocide” needs to be included in the or- Lutheran Theological Seminary, brought actions, and even hymn-singing in the lo- ganization’s training programs. it all together for him. Rossing empha- cal congregation. The practical matters of stewardship sized that Christians do not aim for a fu- Several presenters pointed out how of the land can be complicated. During ture world, but to seek how God’s kingdom political boundaries are often ecologically an evening storytelling session around a is entering this world. It does so like the nonsensical. campfire, two presenters disagreed on the “tree of life” in Revelation, she said, grow- “Thirteen political jurisdictions need to best way to deal with the urban decline ing from roots continually being nourished work together to protect the stream that and empty houses plaguing Detroit. One in solid ground. Christians need to be flows near my house,” pointed out Matt emphasized the good work being done by grounded simultaneously in both “place” Humphreys of Campbell River, B.C. This a wealthy businessman buying land and and God, to be most faithful. idea caught the attention of a Church of planting trees to be harvested, which also Rossing drew on scholarship that em- the Brethren pastor, who pointed out that brings nature into the urban spaces. But phasizes how the New Testament was churches in his denomination are often another reminded listeners that this pro- written in times of Roman Empire. “The named after local rivers because they bap- cess privatized the land and consolidated counter-imperial vision of communities tize new members in rivers. “What does decision-making power into one person. deeply grounded and rooted” in the radical it mean to baptize in polluted water?” he The latter speaker highlighted commu- new relationship with Jesus was a counter- asked. nity land trusts as a collective way of doing cultural message even then, Rossing said. Given the conference focus, several ses- stewardship. The first keynote address also empha- sions explored the thoughts of Wendell Opportunities for exploring ways that sized the counter-cultural aspects of being Berry, a Kentucky farmer, author and AMBS has been greening its campus—in- “rooted and grounded.” S. Roy Kaufman, environmental advocate. One speaker cluding native flower and prairie grass areas, a pastor who has served rural Mennonite referred to him as “St. Wendell,” jokingly and energy-efficient buildings—seemed to churches for three decades, challenged highlighting the prevalence of his thought be appreciated by participants. l Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 25 Care for the Climate PHOTO BY MATT THOMPSON Interfaith Statement fell on the UN’s World Day of Peace, Sept. 21, pointed out Doug Hostetter of Mennonite Central Committee’s United Nations Office in New York. Climate change “is linked to conflict as we have abused this planet,” he said. “It has affected water, grazing lands, resources all over the world, so peace and climate change is a link we have tried hard to make.” It was those consequences and the shared sense of duty that characterized the gathering, which ended with a spectacu- lar multifaith ceremony on the evening of Sept. 21 at the Episcopalian Cathedral of Saint John the Divine. Many of the par- ticipants had been on the massive People’s Climate March that afternoon in New York City. “The twin sides of my faith [are] doing and worshipping,” said a Christian leader from the Pacific Islands, which are experi- encing storm surges from sea-level rise and saline encroachment on fresh water. “We stand together to express deep concern for the consequences of climate change on the earth and its people, all en- trusted, as our faiths reveal, to our com- mon care,” read Bhai Mohinder Singh Under the yellow flags of 20 different denominations and faiths, a dozen Mennonite Ahluwalia, a Sikh leader from the United church members walk with the People’s Climate March in New York City on Sept. 21. Kingdom, from the first paragraph of the Interfaith Statement on Climate Change. More than a dozen leaders read succes- sively from the document. “We acknowledge the overwhelming ‘Choose hope’ for climate scientific evidence that climate change By Randolph Haluza-DeLay is human-induced,” the statement ac- Special to Canadian Mennonite knowledged. (To read the full text, visit NEW YORK, N.Y. interfaithclimate.org.) The question of hope came up frequent- efore 120 political leaders gathered common future,” a statement to highlight ly at the Religions for the Earth confer- Bat the request of the United Nations the importance of religious engagement ence that took place at Union Theological secretary-general Ban Ki-Moon for a sum- with climate change. Seminary from Sept. 19 to 21. A sense of mit on climate change, and before more In a speech to the Interfaith Summit, urgency was prevalent for many as the sci- than 300,000 people marched through Christiana Figueres, executive secretary entific evidence continues to mount, and the streets of New York for the People’s of the UN Framework Convention on natural conditions upon which human Climate March, religious leaders from Climate Change, the organization that societies depend begin to change in ways around the world gathered to consider the oversees international negotiations, called attributable to human-originated fossil- threat posed by climate change. on religious groups around the world to fuel emissions, deforestation and land They met on Sept. 21 and 22 in New tackle the issue. Figueres urged religions practices. York for an Interfaith Summit on Climate to “find their voice on climate change” and “I waver between the rising balloons of Change organized by Religions for Peace to mobilize against what is increasingly be- optimism and the brick bats of cynicism,” and the World Council of Churches (WCC), ing called the “greatest moral issue of our said a participant. that culminated in signing “Climate, faith time.” Another speaker responded by drawing and hope: Faith traditions together for a The climate march and signing of the on her heritage as an African-American:

26 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

“This is the gift of faith. For us, tragedy Petition to urge political leaders there to companies, news which received no media and hope exist. There’s honesty in griev- take action. coverage in Canada. ing, but we learned through that horror Citizens for Public Justice has sugges- “When the organization that accounts of our history that we have a choice. So, tions for churches on a climate page on its for half a billion Christians makes such a choose hope!” website (cpj.ca). significant step, one would think someone No Anabaptist leaders were present at would notice in a fossil-fuel-dependent the Interfaith Summit as signatories or Fossil-fuel divestment encouraged country,” said blogger David Climenhaga observers. Religions for the Earth ended with a web- from Alberta. Smaller climate marches happened based campaign to encourage the world’s Other churches and seminaries have around the world and in many Canadian religious citizens to speak up by visiting begun divestment processes. At the cities. Mark Bigland-Pritchard of Osler www.ourvoices.net. Mennonite Church Canada assembly this Mennonite Church in Saskatchewan The most far-reaching proposals in- summer in Winnipeg, a resolution was said climate change is pretty abstract, but clude efforts to divest from fossil fuels. passed for the church to study the climate- people hear about it a lot. “So a march is Several charitable foundations, led by the change issue and make recommendations a step people can take,” he said. “They can Rockefeller Brothers Fund, announced at to local congregations and the national take other steps, like changing light bulbs, the event that it was divesting from fossil church. but then they wonder what’s next.” fuels. Organizers of Fossil-Free Menno are Other Mennonites have begun a climate Figueres gave a speech in May to the hopeful that this will lead Mennonites to fast the first day of each month. WCC with the same call for divestment. think about the issue and take steps in the A campaign run by Mennonite Central In July, the WCC central committee voted wake of the WCC decision and attention Committee U.S. is the Faith Climate to eliminate its investments in fossil-fuel to events like the Climate Summit. l Yellow Page Business Directory Financial Services Insurance Legal Services Russel Snyder-Penner B.A., LL.B., M.A. Trademark Agent Corporate/Commercial Law Roth Nowak Charities/Non-profits INSURANCE BROKERS Wills/Trusts, Real Estate Listen. Understand. Plan. S 675 Queen255 King St. S tS.. N .Suite Suite 301000 Duane Eby, MBA, CFP, CLU Financial Advisor 119 University Avenue East Kitchener, ON N2M 1A1 519.725.2500 410 Conestogo Road, Unit 208, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 4E2 Waterloo, Ontario N2J 2W1 www.sutherlandmark.com tel 519.725.2006 fax 519.725.2003 [email protected] email [email protected] Telephone: (800) 576-7166 E-mail: [email protected] www.rothnowak.com Real Estate Charitable giving Auto, Home & Business can be fun and easy Insurance Dennis Roth u Ed Nowak Dennis Roth • Ed Nowak Serving the Mennonite community Let us show you how. throughoutServing the Ontario. Mennonite Community throughout Ontario

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God at work in Us issues, including introducing a peace trust fund bill, which was not passed. “Everything I’ve done,” says Funk, Encouraged to keep working “[whether it was working with] the first nations, politics, Mennonite Central Saskatchewan community developer Committee, all of it has been a team effort.” wins award for service to others In his acceptance speech, Funk reflected on his understanding of the “Culture for By Donna Schulz service” motto. “The culture is not there Saskatchewan Correspondent to fuel the war machine, . . . to power the corporate empire, . . . to feed the fame fac- verything I’ve done has been a team Michigan State University. tory,” he said. “The culture is there to feed “Esport,” quips Ray Funk as he reflects Eventually, he returned to Saskatchewan, the hungry, to heal the sick, to build com- on his life’s achievements. where, in 1985, he and his wife, Shirley munity and to take care of Mother Earth The community developer and for- Falstead, established Spruce River for our children and grandchildren.” mer Member of Parliament was awarded Research. The non-profit organization fos- Funk, a member of Grace Mennonite Goshen (Ind.) College’s Culture for Service ters economic development in indigenous Church in Prince Albert, says, “I still have Award at the college’s fall convocation communities through feasibility studies, lots of energy, and, hopefully, good years in and homecoming on Oct. 3. The award is strategic planning and implementation, front of me,” adding that he sees his award given annually to two or three alumni who adult education, and negotiations between as “an encouragement to keep working,” exemplify the college motto, “Culture for communities and government or com- particularly in the area of relationships service,” having distinguished themselves munities and industry. between the Mennonite community and through lifelong service to others. In 1988, Funk was elected as a Saskatchewan Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. l Funk was nominated for working MP for Prince Albert-Churchill River, a seat at justice issues on behalf of Canada’s he held until 1993. During his time in office, Indigenous Peoples during his years Funk worked at numerous peace and justice in federal politics and also for building bridges through economic development in GOSHEN COLLEGE PHOTO BY BRIAN YODER SCHLABACH northern Saskatchewan’s first nation com- munities. He didn’t think there was much chance he would win, though, because he hadn’t published papers or written books, as some other nominees had. Nevertheless, when told he would be receiving the award, Funk says, “I was delighted.” Funk doesn’t see himself as a self-made man. He says receiving the award “made me grateful for all the people who men- tored me along the way,” from pastors and Sunday school teachers at Tiefengrund Mennonite Church, where he grew up, and teachers at Rosthern Junior College, where he attended high school, to professors and classmates at Goshen College, where he earned his undergraduate degree in sociol- ogy in 1969. “It’s important to stay rooted in com- munity,” says Funk, and he speaks with warmth of the various communities he has been part of in his adult years. After his time at Goshen, Funk moved to Ontario, where he worked in adult edu- cation and community development. He Goshen (Ind.) College president Jim Brenneman, left, presents the Culture for later returned to the United States to earn Service Award to alumnus Ray Funk at the college’s fall convocation and homecom- a master’s degree in adult education from ing on Oct. 3. 28 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

Focus On Books & Resources

Book Review Helping us not to forget The Winter We Danced: Voices From the Past, the Future and the Idle No More Movement. Edited by The Kino-nda-niimi Collective. Arbeiter Ring Publishing, 2014, 440 pages. Islands of Decolonial Love: Stories & Songs. By Leanne Simpson. Arbeiter Ring Publishing, 2014, 112 pages. accounts as they unfolded and the reflec- tions that emerged in the wake of these Reviewed by David Driedger events. The collection is not only impor- Special to Canadian Mennonite tant for future generations, but a present reminder of how quickly these events can fter getting a coffee I sat down to tragedy and a reminder. It is a tragedy that vanish from mainstream media. read The Winter We Danced. these unique and impactful works will not As I read through these accounts I was A On the table next to me I no- receive the audience they deserve, and, struck again by the importance of Chief ticed a book someone left behind. On the conversely, it is a reminder of the sorts of Theresa Spence’s hunger strike and how cover was a bold notice stating “2.5 million stories we prefer to tell ourselves. quickly I had forgotten it. There are many copies sold.” The book was a contempo- The Winter We Danced will make stories competing to occupy our memory rary work of fiction re-telling the conquest it more difficult to write some future and imagination. narrative of America expanding into the bestselling novel of Canada’s brave resist- Islands of Decolonial Love is a col- West doing battle in “Indian country.” ance to the potential terrorist actions lection of poems and short stories by I turned my attention back to The of the indigenous people in the years Leanne Simpson, an indigenous theorist Winter We Danced and thought also 2012-13. It is an archive, a vast collection and storyteller. The title is acutely accur- of Islands of Decolonial Love that I had of stories, poems, songs, editorials, blog ate, as this collection moves among the recently finished. Both are stand-out posts, tweets, images and histories that registers of love, isolation, experimenta- contributions from Winnipeg-based explore the people and events that came tion, abuse and hope. Arbeiter Ring Publishers. These books will to be identified with the Idle No More This book is work to read. It is the not sell 2.5 million copies. This fact is a Movement. This is a primary resource of necessary and at times painful work of emerging from another story—one that has also sold millions—a story of love that was never meant for indigenous ΛΛBriefly noted bodies and souls. Simpson’s stories swirl Borntrager books on growing up Amish relaunched with dirt and blood, water and whisky, red and white, and if there are connec- Mary Christner Bontrager was 67 when her first book, Ellie, was tions among these islands—and even published in 1988 by Herald Press. When Ellie began to sell well, bones are broken into islands—it is by Herald Press asked her to write another book, and then another. In threads of love. Simpson writes: “i want all, she penned 10 novels over the next 10 years, all with one-word, to pick you up, and i’m going to stitch one-name titles, concluding with Annie. The Ellie’s People series every one of your broken bones back grew to more than 500,000 copies in print. Now the series is be- together with kisses.” ing relaunched by Herald Press with new covers and slight textual These books challenge our imagina- updates. In Ellie, readers meet Ellie Maust, an Old Order Amish tion. They put in bold contrast many of girl growing up in the early 1900s. She wishes she could wear bright the stories we are more comfortable with, dresses like her English friend, Missy, and face cream and perfume especially for those of us immersed in the like their fancy Amish hired girl, Susie Glick. Borntrager’s heirs are pleased to see the history and story of the West. I can only books brought back into print. “If more children and adults in a new generation can get remind readers of the two images cast by pleasure from reading them, that is great,” says Kathryn Keim, her oldest daughter. One the titles: love and dance. These forms are of Borntrager’s goals in writing the books was “providing a true window into Amish often closely related. We would do well to family life,” says Keim, recalling that her mother had read two misleading books on the learn some new steps. l Amish that also propelled her to continue the series. Borntrager died in 2002 at 81. —MennoMedia David Driedger is associate pastor of First Mennonite Church, Winnipeg. Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 29 Focus on Books & Resources

Book Review wanted to quibble with the editing. The strength of this book is in the every- day-life questions it raises in the midst of the story. Readers are pushed to explore Pastor’s first novel their own views about the Christian mes- sage and how it plays out in the church. It raises questions about a wide variety of issues, including feminism, intimate rela- invites discussion tionships, issues in the work environment, A Pie Plate Pilgrimage. By William Loewen. Privately published by Wordly Lion Press, 2014, 226 pages. respect for others, the meaning of love, and even death and funerals. Review by Barb Draper Although the story might not win a Books & Resources Editor prize for excellence in literature, Loewen has provided a good resource for pro- illiam Loewen has was to be thoroughly edited moting discussion about things we face written a theological and revised by a professional in our lives every day. Although he never Wbook disguised as a publishing company. The book mentions Mennonites, he writes from an novel. This makes it challenging and its cover look quite profes- Anabaptist perspective and invites read- to classify, but it also opens new sional except for the fact that ers to sincerely think about what it means possibilities for how it can be the page margins are very nar- to follow Jesus. used. I would recommend this row. I found the long text lines A Pie Plate Pilgrimage is available in book for a book club or other a bit distracting. There were paperback or Kindle versions at amazon. group discussion, especially for only one or two places where I ca. l young adults who are exploring their own spirituality. PHOTO COURTESY OF JANE ANN MCLACHLAN Loewen, pastor of Trinity Mennonite Church in Calgary, provides an interesting and believable story with engaging char- acters. Lydia Phillips, the main character, is given the task of compiling a Christian self-help book, forcing her to ask impor- tant questions about Christian faith. Her problematical work environment forces her to face deep questions about her voca- tion. Meanwhile, the old friend she has recruited to help her with the book project brings his own complicated relation- ships into the picture. Those who enjoy something of a love interest in their stories won’t be disappointed. Although the writing may not be as polished as that of a seasoned author who submits to a rigorous editing process, Loewen’s book is a compelling read. The story carries itself, even while it begs to be discussed along the way. Loewen Waterloo author Jane Ann McLachlan presents a cheque for $1,205 to Rick provides some discussion questions in Cober Bauman, executive director of Mennonite Central Committee Ontario, the back and indicates that conversa- half of the royalties from the sale of her book Connections: Parables for Today. tion was his intention. He wants to make The other half is going to Canadian Lutheran World Relief. She chose these theological discussion more accessible, especially for young adults. organizations because of their work in the Third World. Published by Pandora As I was reading, I found it slightly Press of Kitchener, Ont., McLachlan’s book is a collection of 10 short stories that ironic that a self-published book with show people often have more in common than they initially realize. Connections a style that had some rough spots was can be purchased by e-mail to [email protected]. describing the making of a book that 30 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

appearances of Jesus from the early church to the 20th century. History 2014 Fall list of Called to be a Soldier: Experiences of COs at Alternative Service Camps during WWII. Darrell Frey. Vineyard Publications, 2014, 519 pages. The author uses creative storytelling to Books & Resources describe the experiences of Mennonite conscientious objectors, primarily at Montreal Theology, Spirituality River near Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., in the early 1940s. The appendix includes copies of many Good News: The Advent of Salvation in the Real Christian Fellowship. John Howard Yoder. documents, letters and lists of COs from Gospel of Luke. Darrin W. Snyder Belousek. Herald Press, 2014, 210 pages. Ontario. Available at Vineyard Publications, Liturgical Press, 2014, 140 pages. This is the third and final volume in the 7277 Third Line, RR 2, Wallenstein, ON N0B 2S0. As the executive director of Bridgefolk, Yoder for Everyone series. It is a collection of Snyder Belousek brings together the essays and speeches from the 1950s and ’60s It Happened in Moscow: A Memoir of Discovery. Anabaptist-Mennonite tradition with the that have never before been published, but Maureen S. Klassen. Kindred Productions, Benedictine prayer tradition in looking at have been edited for modern readers. 2013, 210 pages. what salvation means for life on earth. Snyder Klassen describes how she and her Belousek teaches religion at Bluffton (Ohio) Reconcile: Conflict husband Herb were able to discover more University. Transformation for Ordinary about the early history of the C.F. and Mary Christians. John Paul Klassen family while they lived in Moscow in Living the Christian Life in Today’s World: A Lederach. Herald Press, 2014, the 1990s. They were surprised to learn about Conversation Between Mennonite World 192 pages. a whole new dimension to the Klassen family, Conference and the Seventh-day Adventist Using dramatic a discovery that was possible because they Church, 2011-2012. Carol E. Rasmussen. examples from his own life, lived in Moscow at just the right time. Mennonite World Conference, 2014, 300 pages. Lederach reflects on how This collection of papers is from two reconciliation is rooted in the teachings of Your Faith Will Sustain You years of inter-denominational conversations Jesus and how it can happen in the midst and You Will Prevail: The Life held in the U. S. and Switzerland. Canadian of conflict. He explains how to work at Story of Jacob and Elisabeth participants from Mennonite World reconciliation in military and church conflicts. Isaak. Helmut Isaak, Conference included Robert J. Suderman and The book also includes resources for working translated by Jack Thiessen. Tom Yoder Neufeld. The book is available at reconciliation. Self-published, 2014, 200 at [email protected]; an electronic pages. version is available at www.mwc-cmm.org/ The Spacious Heart: Room for Spiritual Previously available in article/interchurch-dialogue. Awakening. Donald Clymer and Sharon German, this book tells the Clymer Landis. Herald Press, 2014, 240 pages. story of the Isaaks who fled Russia in 1929, Pilgrimage Through Loss: Using lots of stories from their personal settling in the Paraguayan Chaco and serving Pathways to Strength and experiences, this brother-and-sister team as church leaders in the Fernheim Colony. Renewal after the Death of a explain their spiritual journeying. They Although it is a family story, it is also set within Child. Linda Lawrence Hunt. invite the reader to also explore doubts and the context of the church and colony in 20th- Westminster John Knox longings, to see the world with new eyes, and century Paraguay. The book is available at Press, Louisville, Ky., 2014, to strengthen spiritual life and practices. Amazon.ca. 200 pages. Linda Hunt writes about Visions and Appearances of Jesus. Phillip H. Together in the Work of the Lord: A History the loss of her daughter, Krista Hunt Ausland, Wiebe. Leafwood Publishers, 2014, 224 pages. of the Conservative Mennonite Conference. who was killed in a bus accident while Phillip Wiebe, who teaches at Trinity Nathan E. Yoder. Herald Press, 2014, 551 pages. on assignment with Mennonite Central Western University in B.C., has collected The Conservative Mennonite Conference, Committee (MCC) in Bolivia in 1998. The stories of people who have seen a vision or with its headquarters at Rosedale, Ohio, can book is designed to provide understanding an appearance of Jesus. Wiebe also includes trace its roots to 1910, when a group of Amish and a path to renewal for those who have his comments about each of these sightings, Mennonite ministers met together. This experienced deep grief or those want to including his view of the Shroud of Turin. volume is part of the Studies in Anabaptist accompany someone else’s grief journey. In the first half of the book, he outlines and Mennonite History series. The author is Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 31 Focus on Books & Resources

an archivist at Eastern Mennonite University, a group study guide, as the story raises many with death. The book includes exercises to Harrisonburg, Va., and teaches church history questions that young adults and others encourage reflection and discussion about at Eastern Mennonite Seminary. should find lead to stimulating discussion. end-of-life issues.

Other Books What Lies Behind. Luanna Hiebert. Turnstone Practicing Presence. Terri J. Plank Brenneman. Press, 2014, 93 pages. MennoMedia, 2014, 77 pages. Bonnet Strings: An Amish This collection of poems is written by This collection of worship resources in 13 Woman’s Ties to Two Luann Hiebert, who teaches at Providence sessions was commissioned by Mennonite Worlds. Saloma Miller University College in southern Manitoba. Women Canada and Mennonite Women Furlong. Herald Press, 2014, U.S.A. It can be used individually or in 337 pages. Children’s Books groups. In this memoir, Furlong describes her struggle Ellie. Mary Christner Borntrager. Herald A Shared Understanding of in deciding to leave her Press, First published 1988, reprinted 2014, Church Leadership: Polity Amish community. After 193 pages. Manual for Mennonite several months in Vermont, she returned This is Book 1 in the 10-book series, Ellie’s Church Canada and to her Amish home in Ohio, but then again People: An Amish Family Saga, being reprinted Mennonite Church U.S.A. decided to leave. She feels torn between by Herald Press. This book, set in an Amish MC Canada and MC U.S.A., two worlds, but finally chooses to leave community in Ohio in the early 1900s, is Herald Press, 2014, 79 pages. permanently. Furlong has also written Why I designed for a juvenile audience. This revised polity Left the Amish published in 2011. manual is a working Resources document until it is formally accepted by Chasing the Amish Dream: My Life as a the MC U.S.A. delegate body. It explains such Young Amish Bachelor. Loren Beachy. Herald Living Thoughtfully, Dying Well: A Doctor things as the Mennonite understanding of Press, 2014, 195 pages. Explains How to Make Death a Natural Part of ordination and who holds pastoral credentials, Loren Beachy is an Old Order Amish Life. Glen Miller. Herald Press, 2014, 180 pages. and outlines how pastors and congregations schoolteacher and auctioneer. With wit, Author Glen Miller is a retired physician can have healthy relationships. humour and warmth, he tells short stories, who wrote this book to help people deal often arising from his own experiences in an better with the dying process. He writes from —Compiled by Barb Draper, Amish community in northern Indiana. This his own experiences, including his own brush Books & Resources editor book is part of Herald Press’s Plainspoken series of “Real-life stories of Amish and Mennonites.” ΛΛBriefly noted Extending the Table, revised edition. Joetta Read your way to PA 2015 Handrich Schlabach. Herald Press, 2014, 344 pages. HARRISBURG, PA.—“We should be well informed hosts,” said This revised edition looks very different from Richard Thomas about PA 2015, the Mennonite World Conference the original Extending the Table published in (MWC) assembly to be held next July 21-26 in Harrisburg. Thomas, 1991. Most of the recipes are the same, but who chairs the National Advisory Council for the event, is urging all the layout is more pleasing to the eye, with North American Mennonites, Mennonite Brethren and Brethren in lots of colourful photos. This collection of Christ to honour their guests next summer by starting to prepare international recipes was commissioned by now. “Most of us probably can’t become fluent in Indonesian or MCC; many of the contributors spent time Amharic or French between now and next July,” he said. “But we can overseas, where they picked up the recipes. certainly learn to know more about our sister churches around the Also available as an e-book. world before we’re sitting next to their members at next summer’s assembly!” commented Thomas. MWC commissioned the writing of a five-volume A Pie Plate Pilgrimage. William Loewen. Global History Series, one for each continent, which reflect the perspectives, experi- Privately published by Wordly Lion Press, 2014, ences and interpretations of the local churches. “I’m reading these books as one way 226 pages. to get myself ready for PA 2015,” Thomas said. He is also reading What We Believe This novel tells the story of Lydia Phillips, a Together: Exploring the “Shared Convictions” of Anabaptist-Related Churches. Said young adult who is given the task of choosing Thomas, “This common reading material can be one of our global glues. And we’ll a writer for a Christian self-help book and finds be talking about our ‘Shared Convictions’ when we’re together next summer.” it challenging. Loewen, the pastor at Trinity —Mennonite World Conference Mennonite Church near Calgary, also provides 32 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014 Focus on Books & Resources

Book Review Suffering under the Soviets Other Side of the River. By Janice L. Dick. Helping Hands Press, 2014. 370 pages.

Reviewed by Elma Martens Schemenauer Special to Canadian Mennonite

illage houses face the main street shrinks to almost zero. of the authorities. However, Communist with barns attached behind and An aunt of Luise’s, Tante Manya, is a officials pursue and persecute them there Vfields beyond that. Young people spiritual mentor for the young woman. At too. It seems the beleaguered Mennonites gather for “singings.” A bone setter one point, Tante Manya says, “Do not hide will never escape. Or will they? relieves headaches by carefully manipu- from sorrow, my child. When it comes— A number of other novels feature the lating the neck. These are all aspects of and it will—embrace it and believe the experiences of Mennonites in Russia, in- Mennonite life in Russia as presented by rainbow will come after. That is the prom- cluding My Harp is Turned to Mourning Janice L. Dick in her new novel, Other ise of our Lord, and he never fails.” by Al Reimer, The Blue Mountains of China Side of the River. “Never, Tante?” Luise asks. by Rudy Wiebe, and The Russländer by They resonate with me because I re- “Only in our limited understanding,” the Sandra Birdsell. Dick’s Other Side of the member them from stories told by my aunt replies. “We see our path in the light River stacks up well in comparison with Mennonite ancestors. we have; he sees the whole road right to the these. In some ways, it’s The Russländer Other Side of the River begins in 1926 and end.” with more action, suspense and Christian centres on Mennonites of the Siberian vil- For Luise and other Alexandrovka impact. lage of Alexandrovka. Sadly, their orderly, Mennonites, that road includes moving far The first chapter of Other Side of the River provident, faith-based lives are disturbed, east in an attempt to escape the attention can be read online at bit.ly/1rWD7LE. l frustrated, and, in some cases, crushed by officials of the ruling Communist regime. The government demands more and more of the villagers’ wheat and other ΛΛBriefly noted farm products. It tries to prevent them Canadian Bible Society introduces digital children’s ministry tool from speaking German, the language of their hearts. Schools aren’t allowed to TORONTO—With recent study re- give religious instruction and parents are sults revealing concerning trends in warned about teaching the Bible at home. Bible reading and engagement, the Mounted members of the Soviet secret Canadian Bible Society is launching police run women down in the street, a series of national initiatives to help and rape them or threaten to. People who churches effectively reach their neigh- openly oppose the regime are imprisoned, bourhoods with the Bible. Its second exiled to work camps in the far north or initiative, “Incredible Islands,” is a simply shot. customizable, digital ministry tool to Caught in the turmoil are young Luise strengthen Bible engagement. “In a world where 80 percent of children as young as 3 Letkemann and Daniel Martens. They’re in are already using the Internet for an average of four to seven hours each day, the need love. They hope to marry and live peaceful, for a safe and productive online environment that brings kids closer to God has been fruitful lives among their people. They do evident for some time,” says Don Miller, the Bible Society’s director of Canadian ministry. manage to marry, but then political, social Compedia, the developers of edutainment brands “Bob the Builder,” “Lassie” and “Postman and personal crises force them to grapple Pat,” offered its expertise in combining fun and games with educational content to build with physical suffering, bereavement, un- a Scripture-rich virtual world for children. Canadian Bible Society is offering free 30-day certainty, a long separation and divided trials to children’s ministry workers, available at www.incredibleislands.ca. loyalty. Through it all, the couple cling to —Canadian Bible Society their faith in God, although it sometimes Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 33

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young voices

Personal Reflection

young Values, views voices and visions Young Manitobans discuss Mennonite church issues at September event

Kalynn Spain Special to Young Voices

he morning begins with many suggesting that Mennonites worldwide hugs, some handshakes and the share a desire to be fulfilled and that they Thearty, infectious laugh of Kathy do this through communion. He chall- Giesbrecht, or “Kathy G.” as many refer to enges us to consider the other things that Mennonite Church Manitoba’s energetic unite us as Mennonites, both religiously associate director of leadership minis- and culturally. tries. There is a sense of reunification as He concludes by saying that his goal we tell stories of our summers and new is to find 25 young Mennonites who will things that are happening in our lives this represent Manitoba at the Mennonite fall. World Conference in Pennsylvania next We have gathered for Making July, an idea that spurs much debate Connections, an event aimed at young about who should attend and a burst of adults from MC Manitoba to connect excitement as someone shouts, “Road with one another and discuss our ideas trip!” for the local and wider church. The next speaker is Rianna Isaak, the As young Mennonites who attend, or are members of, Mennonite churches, we share not only an Anabaptist history, but a desire to have a voice in the church.

At 10 a.m., Giesbrecht calls us together, new program director of MC Manitoba’s her hands spread out in front of her Camps with Meaning ministry. Her as she welcomes us all and then says a experience working in areas of peace and prayer for the day. She introduces the justice, specifically with indigenous com- plan for the morning: a roundtable munities in northern Manitoba, brings format that will invite us to discuss four insight to the idea of Mennonites as ac- different ideas presented by four different tive peacebuilders and justice-seekers in speakers, followed by discussion. the world around them. She asserts that, The first speaker is Gerald Ens from as young Mennonites, we share a stub- Bethel Mennonite Church, Winnipeg. bornness in our work that helps us in this He talks about the connection we have to field, which can be discouraging at times, Kalynn Spain Mennonites in other parts of the world, and insists we need to support each other Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 35

as this work is done. how God has called us together: I am the third speaker. I tell two stories of when my faith was challenged im- • What reasons do we each have for mensely, the first being my time in the being here? Katimavik volunteer program and the • What binds us to each other? second being the time I spent living in India during a practicum as part of my I come to the conclusion that the two undergraduate degree in international questions are interdependent. As young development. In both situations, I found Mennonites who attend, or are members myself time and again explaining to of, Mennonite churches, we share not people I met what a Mennonite was. only an Anabaptist history, but a desire to While each time became easier, I could have a voice in the church. This voice is not help but wonder how others would diverse. It is not always in agreement with answer this question. other voices, but it is present and vital I invited those listening to think about nonetheless. what values connect us as Mennonites This voice is growing louder, thanks to and how these values shape our everyday events such as this one, and will continue lives as we encounter those who do not to be heard this winter and in the coming know anything about our story. year. The fourth speaker is Don Rempel One day, this voice will be ready to Boschman, lead pastor at Douglas proclaim the values, the views and Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, who the visions that young Mennonites shares some statistics about young in Manitoba have, not only for the Mennonites attending churches in churches we attend here at home, but Manitoba, in order to highlight how our for the church we are a part of around churches are shifting and changing to suit the world. l the interests of younger generations. He notes that this is not the case in Kalynn Spain, 26, is a member of Hope every church, as it can be difficult for Mennonite Church, Winnipeg. She some congregations to go through transi- works casually at MC Manitoba’s Camp tion when they have been worshipping Assiniboia and full-time at Zinn Farms the same way for so long. However, he in Springstein, Man. Young adults in adds that it is exciting to see how at least Manitoba can follow ongoing conversa- the dialogue is happening and that young tions by joining the Young Mennos of Mennonites are participating in the Manitoba Facebook group at http://on.fb. conversation. me/1D1k8UR. As the morning unfolds, I think about

Personal Reflection Supplementary reading A Year of Reading Biblically spreads its wings

Aaron Epp Young Voices Co-editor

id you know that there’s an illus- who has spent thousands of dollars using trated Bible that retells the stor- those small, colourful bricks recreating Dies in Scripture using Lego? The biblical stories and then photographing Brick Testament is a series by a man in them. California named Brendan Powell Smith, (Continued on page 36) 36 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

(Continued from page 35) [P]erhaps unsurprisingly, “While there is really no substitute I’ve found myself for reading the Bible itself, The Brick Testament endeavours to come as close gravitating toward books PHOTO BY CRAIG TERLSON to that experience as possible for people that have to do with the who wouldn’t normally read the Bible all the way through on their own,” Smith Bible over the past year. writes on TheBrickTestament.com. “For those already familiar with the Bible, it editors and I chose for A Year of Reading offers the chance to brush up in a fun Biblically. Jacobs, an editor-at-large at way, or to reconsider what they have read Esquire magazine, has made a name for before.” himself by taking on different projects The Brick Testament is one of the and writing about them. In his 2004 many intriguing titles I’ve come across book, The Know-It-All, for example, he The Brick Testament is as this Year of Reading Biblically has wrote about reading the entire 2002 edi- progressed. tion of the Encyclopedia Britannica, all one of the many intriguing I love books, and perhaps unsurpris- 33,000 pages of it. titles I’ve come across ingly, I’ve found myself gravitating For The Year of Living Biblically, Jacobs, toward books that have to do with the a secular Jew, read the Bible, wrote down as this Year of Reading Bible over the past year. I’ve dug a few off every rule he came across, and then Biblically has progressed. my bookshelves that I’ve had for years, spent a year following those rules. It’s and also picked up a few new ones over an entertaining read that documents (Aaron Epp) the past 10 or 11 months that I’ve come Jacobs’ spiritual transformation. He has across while perusing the stacks at vari- no dramatic conversion experience, but ous bookstores. by the end of his year of living biblically, Here are three of the books I’ve picked he defines himself as a “reverent agnos- up and flipped through in the last few tic,” someone who believes in the idea of months. I have not read all three of these sacredness, and that rituals, the Sabbath cover to cover, but have read parts of or prayer can be sacred. Jacobs offers them from time to time, to supplement many fascinating insights along the way. my Bible reading: • Good Book by David Plotz • Know Your Bible for Kids by Donna K. (HarperCollins, 2009). Maltese (Barbour Publishing, 2013). When I first spoke with my editors I came across this title at a store in about A Year of Reading Biblically late Lake of the Woods, Ont., while heading in 2013, one of them suggested that a to a fishing trip this past summer. The book might come of it. David Plotz, an store had a small rack of Christian books, American journalist, beat me to it. In and this was one of them. I was drawn Good Book, Plotz—who starts the book to the small, 128-page volume because by writing, “I’ve always been a proud Jew, it reminded me of the illustrated chil- but never a very observant one”—writes dren’s Bibles I looked through when I was about reading through the book on which young, but also because it gives a brief, his religion, his culture and his world are two-page overview of each book in the based. He offers summaries of each Old Bible. Each entry discusses who wrote the Testament book that are both incisive book, when it was written and what the and humorous. Flipping through Good book is about; it also identifies an impor- Book from time to time has been a good tant verse from each book, what that way for me to make sense of what I’m verse means, and what the book’s key reading in the Bible and has also brought message is. my attention to some of the things I’ve missed along the way. • The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs (Simon & Schuster, 2007). Finding books like the ones listed I first read this book a number of years above has made for a richer Year of ago, and its title inspired the name my Reading Biblically. l Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 37

MCC Manitoba celebrates 50 years with a play

By Rachel Bergen Young Voices Co-editor

50th wedding anniversary tra- and that the play will newly inspire people Aditionally calls for a gift of gold, but to get behind MCC Manitoba.” Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Originally from Stouffville, Ont., Steiner Manitoba got something a little different moved to Winnipeg in July with her hus- for its 50th anniversary. Theatre of the Beat band, and just started attending Fort Garry wrote and presented a play in honour of Mennonite Fellowship. the relief and development organization. Before moving to Manitoba, Steiner got Called The Forks and the Road, the play to know MCC Ontario well by volunteering celebrated MCC Manitoba’s journey over at a thrift shop, participating in internation- the past half-century. Through the stor- al learning tours and serving on an MCC ies of Anne, Campbell and Perry, themes board. “Getting to know MCC Manitoba ‘Getting to know MCC of thrift, refugee resettlement, creation through working on this play has definitely care, indigenous relations and mediation given me an appreciation for Manitoba’s Manitoba through working came to life, the relationships between the character and interests,” she said. “It’s been on this play has definitely characters becoming a portrayal of people a nice way to get to know this new province working for justice and dignity. While fic- I’m learning to call home.” given me an appreciation tional, it was based on true MCC Manitoba And working on the play has helped for Manitoba’s character stories. Steiner feel more at home. “It’s been like Rebecca Steiner, 25, did the bulk of the getting to know a family member who has and interests.’ writing and dramaturgy for The Forks and a familiar personality and character,” she (Rebecca Steiner) the Road, and then the Theatre of the Beat said. “It’s neat to see some of the unique team got together over Skype for brain- programs that have emerged in Manitoba storming and edits. reflected by the prairie context.” She said the play was meant for every- The Forks and the Road featured local one: staunch supporters of MCC’s relief Manitoba Mennonite actors and stage and development work, and those who hands. Many of them are young adults. aren’t familiar with it. “It takes the audi- Terri-Lynn Friesen, 25, one of the actors, ence on a journey into the lives of three was excited to celebrate MCC Manitoba’s very different people who learn about what good work while acting with other believ- doing justice, loving mercy and walking ers. She played three characters in the play, humbly means in their contexts,” she said. including Anne, who manages an MCC The Fork and the Road was the first thrift store. Most of Friesen’s experiences time Theatre of the Beat, which is based with MCC Manitoba revolve around thrift in Ontario, exclusively produced a play for shopping. “So many of [Anne’s] mono- Manitoba. Steiner said their main goal was logues speak directly of what I experienced to share what good work MCC Manitoba in real life,” Friesen said of this role. has been doing for the last half-century. The Fork and the Road played in “One way to make history relevant—es- four Manitoba communities—Gretna, pecially to younger generations—is to re- Winnipeg, Stienbach and Brandon—over member the past, while also looking into four nights in late October, where patrons the future,” she said. “We hope people of all also got to experience unique music, poetry ages will see themselves in the characters and choir performances from local artists. l 38 Canadian Mennonite October 27, 2014

5 p.m., and appreciation/fundraising security?” featuring Wendy Kroeker and Nov. 22: MCC Manitoba annual ΛΛCalendar banquet, at 6 p.m. Jae Yung Lee from Seoul, South Korea; Christmas craft and bake sale, at 134 British Columbia Dec. 6,13: A Buncha Guys’ Christmas at CMU’s Great Hall, at 7 p.m. Plaza Drive, Winnipeg; from 9:30 a.m. concerts: (6) at Knox United Church, Nov. 15: “MCC matters” at CMU, to 4 p.m. Nov. 29,30: Abendmusik Advent Saskatoon; (13) at Shekinah Retreat from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Spend a day Nov. 23: Mennonite Community Vespers with Abendmusik Choir; (29) Centre, Waldheim; both concerts at exploring restorative justice, affordable Orchestra presents its fall concert, at Emmanuel Free Reformed Church, 7:30 p.m. housing, peacebuilding, global hunger featuring Rossini’s Semiramide Abbotsford; (30) Knox United Church, Dec. 14: RJC choir concert, at Knox and more. For more information or Overture, Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto West Vancouver; both services at 8 United Church, Saskatoon, at 7:30 p.m. to pre-register, visit mccmanitoba.ca/ and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5; at p.m. Dec. 19: RJC Christmas choir concert, mccmatters. CMU’s South Campus Chapel, at 3 p.m. Dec. 6: MCC Centre grand opening at RJC, at 7 p.m. Nov. 15: MCC Manitoba’s 50th- Tickets available at the door. at 33933 Gladys Avenue, Abbotsford, anniversary benefit concert with Nov. 24: Westgate Mennonite from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ribbon cutting, Manitoba local choirs, at Immanuel Pentecostal Collegiate annual general meeting. For food, open house, live music. Church, Winnipeg, at 7 p.m. Keynote more information, call 204-775-7111. Nov. 7: Mennonite Collegiate speaker: former prime minister Joe Nov. 29: Grand opening and Alberta Institute soup and pie fundraiser and Clark. For more information or to dedication of CMU’s new library and fall concert; meal at 5 p.m., followed reserve free tickets, call 204-261-6381 or learning commons, at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 21: MCC Alberta hosts “Breaking by choir concert at 7 p.m. For more visit mccmanitoba.ca/50. Nov. 29: Christmas at CMU, at 2:30 down the walls . . . relief, development information, visit www.MCIBlues.net. Nov. 18: Evening of the arts at and 7 p.m. and peace,” at Foothills Alliance Nov. 9: Peace, Pies and Prophets Westgate Mennonite Collegiate. For Nov. 30: Winnipeg First Mennonite Church, Calgary; at 7 p.m. Keynote presented by Ted and Co. Theater more information, call 204-775-7111. Church Choir present Schubert’s Mass speaker: Joe Clark, former Canadian Works, at Home Street Mennonite Nov. 20-22: Cottonwood Community in G and Bach Cantata BWV 61 with prime minister. For more information, Church, Winnipeg, at 7 p.m. Freewill Drama present Pollyanna, at orchestra under the direction of Yuri visit www.mcccanada.ca/get-involved/ offering and pie auction fundraiser for Mennonite Collegiate Institute’s Buhler Klaz, at the church at 7 p.m. An offering events. Christian Peacemaker Teams. For more Hall, Gretna, at 7:30 p.m. each evening. will be taken. information, e-mail [email protected]. For more information, visit www. Dec. 8: Westgate Mennonite Collegiate Saskatchewan Nov. 13: Face2Face community MCIBlues.net. Christmas concert at Westminster discussion: “Restorative justice: Soft Nov. 22: RJC corporation meeting, at on crime or building community ΛΛUpComing Submissions sought for second Give the Gift annual Krahn Contest of Faith NORTH NEWTON, KAN.—Bethel College and Mennonite Life announce the opening of the second annual Cornelius Krahn Mennonite Multi-Media Contest for High Schoolers. The contest is open to any secondary-school student in the shine On United States and Canada, with awards of $200, $150 and $100 A Story Bible for the first-, second- and third-place entries as decided by a Beautiful stories, panel of judges. Contest entries may take the form of essays, lively illustrations, creative writing, multi-media (film or web), or original pieces of art or music on topics related to Mennonite and Anabaptist thought-provoking history, identity or theology. All works must be created during questions, interesting the 2014-15 academic year. Award winners will be published facts, prayers, and in the 2015 online edition of Mennonite Life. Submission dead- activities. Best for line is April 1, 2015. Submissions must be made electronically ages 5–12. to [email protected]. To see the full submission guidelines, visit ml.bethelks.edu and click the “Krahn Contest” link at the top. Historian Cornelius Krahn, 1902-90, spent a career teaching at Mennonite colleges in Kansas, and was the Order nO w in tiM e fO r ChristM as! founding editor, in 1946, of Mennonite Life. The children of Cornelius and Hilda Krahn established the Mennonite Life Endowment Fund in 2012 in honour of their parents, which 1-800-245-7894 provides the contest prize money. www.MennoMedia.org an imprint of MennoMedia —Bethel College Canadian Mennonite Vol. 18 No. 21 39

United Church, Winnipeg, at 7 p.m. For information, call 519-653-5719 or visit more information, call 204-775-7111. www.fairviewmh.com. ΛΛClassifieds Dec. 17-18: Mennonite Collegiate Nov. 15: Mennonite Mass Choir Travel For Sale Institute Christmas concert in Buhler featuring Brahms’ Requiem, at St. Peter’s Visit Europe the Mennonite House for Sale Hall; performances at 7:30 p.m. each Lutheran Church, Kitchener, at 7:30 Way! Multiple Hotel Tours Waterloo, 3-bedroom bunga- evening. p.m. focussing on Mennonite- low close to universities and Nov. 21-22: 23rd annual Spirit of Anabaptist history in Holland, expressway, mature trees, perennials, solar panels. Visit Christmas music and craft show Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Ontario Poland and Ukraine. Organized propertyguys.com and enter at Nairn Mennonite Church, Ailsa by Mennonite Heritage Tours, 146128 in the Quick Search Until Jan. 18, 2005: “Along the road Craig; features include live music, Ten www.mennoniteheritagetours. box. to freedom” art exhibit by Ray Dirks, Thousand Villages, craft sale, tea room. eu at Conrad Grebel University College (21) 6:30 to 9 p.m.; (22) 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gallery. For more information, visit For more information, visit www.nairn. PHOENIX (Arizona) MENNO Advertising Info uwaterloo.ca/grebel/grebel-gallery. on.ca.mennonite.net. Guest House Bed and Breakfast welcomes guests coming to Nov. 9: Third annual Male Chorus Nov. 22: Nithview Christmas tea and the Phoenix area. (Web site Contact Sing, at 2:30 p.m., at Detweiler bake sale, at Nithview Community, www.hscserves.org). Email D. Michael Hostetler Meetinghouse, Roseville. Former New Hamburg, from 2 to 4 p.m. [email protected] and current male quartet or chorus Nov. 22: MennoHomes annual general or call 623-847-0314. 1-800-378-2524 x.224 members, or want-to-be members meeting and fundraising concert advert@ invited. Leader: Bob Shantz. For featuring The Deacons of Jazz, at canadianmennonite.org more information, call Bob Shantz at Waterloo North Mennonite Church, 519-745-4524. Waterloo, at 7 p.m. For more information, Nov. 10: “Peace quest: Remembering visit www.mennohomes.com. for peace 2014-18” event at Conrad Nov. 22,23: Soli Deo Gloria Singers Employment Opportunities Grebel University College Chapel, at 7 present their fall concert, “Sing Praise!”; p.m. Speaker: Jamie Swift, co-author of (22) at UMEI, Leamington, at 7:30 Warrior Nation: Rebranding Canada in p.m.; (23) at Leamington United an Age of Anxiety. Mennonite Church, at 3 p.m. For more Nov. 13-14: Bechtel Lectures in information about tickets, call UMEI at Anabaptist and Mennonite Studies, 519-326-7448. at Conrad Grebel University College, Nov. 26: Mennonite/s Writing, a free at 7:30 p.m. each evening. Speaker: public reading series with celebrated Jeff Gundy of Bluffton (Ohio) Canadian authors, at Conrad Grebel University. (13) Topic: “Poetry, the Chapel, at 7:30 p.m.: Miriam Toews sleeping king and creative doubt”; (14) will read from her bestselling new Topic: “Circling defiance.” For more novel, All My Puny Sorrows. For more information, visit grebel.ca/bechtel. information, visit grebel.ca/mennolit. Nov. 14: Mennonite/s Writing, a free Nov. 28-29: Oct. 24-25: “Reading Full time / part time public reading series with celebrated the Bible with Jesus” retreat at employment Mennonite authors, at Conrad Grebel Willowgrove, Stouffville, with Bryan Chapel, at 7:30 p.m.: Jeff Gundy will Moyer Suderman: sponsored by Combine World is an agriculture based machinery dealership read from his new book of poetry, MC Eastern Canada, the Markham- in central Saskatchewan (Saskatoon area). Somewhere Near Defiance. For more Stouffville Mennonite Ministerial and information, visit grebel.ca/mennolit. Willowgrove. Pt. 2: “Mark: Have you Our vision: To be a learning organization. Nov 14: “Spirituality and Aging” never read?” For more information, Our mission: To maximize success and quality of life for our customers, employees and company. seminar at Conrad Grebel University e-mail [email protected]. College’s Great Hall, at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30: Third annual Welcoming We are currently hiring full time: Speaker: Kenneth Pargament, professor Advent event, at 2:30 p.m., at Detweiler Journey person mechanic or equivalent...... $27.00 to $35.00/hr. of clinical psychology at Bowling Green Meetinghouse, Roseville. Welcome Parts salesperson...... $20.00 to $26.00/hr. University, Ohio. For more information, Advent by hearing and singing old and Part time, May-September yearly: visit grebel.ca/sa. new Christmas music led by Lifted Forklift operator...... $21.00 to $26.00/hr. Nov. 15: Fairview Mennonite Voices. For more information, call Sam Shipper/receiver...... $17.00 to $22.00/hr. Home presents its annual Christmas Steiner at 519-884-1040. Yard maintenance...... $17.00 to $22.00/hr. Handicraft Sale of crafts, decorations, Mechanics helper...... $19.00 to $25.00/hr. stocking stuffers, wearable items, To ensure timely publication of We guarantee to provide a safe, meaningful work wreaths, woodworking, baby quilts, upcoming events, please send environment. We focus on mentorship and training of all used books and much more; from Calendar announcements eight associates. Travel and settlement assistance provided. Contact: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Home in weeks in advance of the event Charlie Smith 1-306-221-3800 [email protected]. Cambridge. Plus Santa’s Sweet Shop, date by e-mail to calendar@ Check us out at combineworld.com. fresh baking and tea room. For more canadianmennonite.org. Focus on Books & Resources Books show Old Order Mennonite culture from the inside By Barb Draper Books & Resources Editor YATTON, ONT.

msey Martin, an Old Order Mennonite deacon and long- Atime parochial school teacher, loves books. While most people in his community are farmers, he says that sitting in his study surrounded by books is “a dream come true.” The idea of making a book has also appealed to him, and when a writer from his Old Order community asked him to publish some of her stories, he was ready to take up the challenge. Vineyard Publications, which produces books “by the plain people for the plain people,” has now been around for more than 10 years and has published more than 30 books. The goal of Vineyard Publications is to pro- vide wholesome reading material for those who have old-fashioned morals. Many of the books are designed for children, to reinforce the values of the Old Order Mennonite community. The Vineyard catalogue identifiesRuth, Girl of the Conestoga and Joy in the Valley as books for youth. The books portray the everyday life of Ruth Weber, a girl in her late teens who lives and works in the Conestoga River Valley includ- ing the village of Hawkesville. Unlike typical Amish romances, these books are true-to-life for the Old Order community. Readers will get a genuine view of Old Order culture and beliefs from the inside. Called to be a Soldier is another book recently published by Vineyard. It describes the experi- ences of Old Order Mennonite conscientious objectors at Alternative Service camps in the 1940s. Author Darrell Frey provides a great deal of information, especially regarding the Montreal River Camp in Ontario. He also in- cludes copies of letters, documents and lists of COs from Ontario who served in the camps. Frey’s writing style could be described as cre- ative non-fiction, as he anchors his story in facts but is creative in his storytelling. Vineyard books are available in local small- town Ontario stores owned by conservative Mennonites, including Busy Bee Quilts in Elmira. Vineyard Publications, located in Yatton, does not use the Internet, but its books can be ordered online through Living Water Christian Bookstore (www.lwcb.org) in Linwood. l