September 6, 2010 Volume 14 Number 17

Seeking higher ground pg. 22

inside Our ‘multicultural’ church 4 A faith to die for: Martyrs Mirror turns 350 18 Colombians may get compensation 23 2 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Editorial electronic technology to stay in touch with our readers, we are launching a completely redesigned website with this How green is Canadian edition. It has much more capability for interaction and updated news. The home page will feature regularly updated news events, along with photos. Mennonite? Since we are limited by paper, ink Dick Benner and delivery costs in our print edition, Editor/Publisher we are using our website—which is not constrained by page counts—to include n a letter to Canadian Mennonite special film on our largely glass front, more features than we can put into print: on June 28, Angelika Dawson of reflecting—rather than absorbing—the features such as more book reviews; IAbbotsford, B.C., charged that when sun, to cut down on cooling costs. Other perhaps a new “sermons” feature down we challenged Mennonite Central than that, we are not sure what an the road; and a new subscription to Committee and congregations to energy audit would find. Ecumenical News International, raising be more environmentally re- How many of your staff use our awareness of important religious sponsible in a previous issue, we alternate transportation to get to happenings around the globe, espe- “failed to point the finger back at work or gather stories in the field? cially as news occurs in areas where our [ourselves].” Our managing editor has recently MC Canada Witness workers and our Here’s an attempt to answer her moved closer to the office and service agencies like Mennonite Central specific questions: walks to work as often as he can. Others Committee, Mennonite Economic Is your magazine printed on recycled live at a distance and have to use cars. Development Associates and Christian paper using soy-based inks? No. When Our correspondents work mostly from Peacemaker Teams are active. doing informal bids recently on printing home, using their phones/computers to And our blog, which now has a moder- with recycled paper and soy-based ink, gather stories. When onsite reporting at ated discussion, will be open to any and all I discovered we would likely double our a distance is required, we often sub-con- feedback without needing the approval of paper costs. tract the story to a local reporter. a moderator. Our blog writers are anxious Web printers are using only partially Since our 12-member board of directors for your comments to widen discussion of soy-based inks (up to only 30 percent— and six correspondents live in all parts the issues they thoughtfully raise. not enough for us to run the an environ- of the country, from east to west, we are mental logo with integrity). This presents increasingly holding video-conference Redacting historical a conflict of values: Do we increase the meetings. Our board chair holds executive information online costs to our subscribers, congregations committee meetings almost exclusively via We can no longer comply with requests and denominational partners—the lat- video conference. We still think it is im- to excise names from our website and our ter two of which are already struggling portant to hold our annual meetings in a online posted issues for two reasons: with diminishing contributions—and local community, where we invite pastors • First, as a publication of record in the “go green,” or hold the costs in line while to attend and hold an annual dinner for MC Canada world, such redaction makes Canadian paper mills and ink producers local interaction, but our overall carbon the record incomplete. Historians would get enough customer pressure to also “go footprint in this area is on the decrease. not find us a reliable source. green?” Suffice it to say, environmental pro- • Second, in the universe of the “world- Do we choose good stewardship or tection is a top priority for Canadian wide web,” complete with the omnipres- costly environmental changes? We are Mennonite. We are holding ourselves as ent Google and other service providers, open to counsel. accountable as we ask the church to be. excising information from Canadian Would your office hold up to an environ- Mennonite—a very, very small player in mental audit? Yes, very likely. My pre- Redesigned website this universe—will not solve the problem decessor went to the expense of installing To the end of using less paper and more of this information being public.

About the cover: Circulation: Please contact Lisa Jacky toll-free at Floods have destroyed homes and livelihoods across much of Pakistan, 1-800-378-2524 ext. 221 or by e-mail at office@ including the Dera Ismail Khan District, pictured. See story on relief efforts canadianmennonite.org for subscriptions and ad- by Mennonite Central Committee and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank on dress changes. Subscriptions can also be ordered at page 22. our web site. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Publications Photo: Zafar Wazir, Church World Service Assistance Program towards our mailing costs. ISSN 1480-042X PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40063104 REGISTRATION NO. 09613 Three views of our ‘multicultural’ church 4 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE ITEMS TO CANADIAN MENNONITE contentsEmmanuel Mennonite pastor April Yamasaki says her Abbotsford, 490 DUTTON DRIVE, UNIT C5 B.C., congregation has been deliberate in its embrace of ‘mak[ing] dis- WATERLOO ON N2L 6H7 ciples of all nations.’ MC Canada’s Samson Lo explains the biblical basis Phone: 519-884-3810 Toll-free: 1-800-378-2524 Fax: 519-884-3331 of ‘one church, many peoples.’ gives the church a Web site: canadianmennonite.org Joon-hyung Park bracing wake-up call to be ‘intentional’ about multicultural ministry or Please send all material to be considered for publication to: risk offering nothing more than ‘a landlord’s temporal charity’ to those General submission address: [email protected] not of German or Swiss background. Readers Write: [email protected] Milestones announcements: [email protected] MWC reports a good year 16 Obituaries: Lisa Metzger, [email protected] During meetings in Ethiopia, Mennonite World Conference hears Calendar announcements: [email protected] encouraging reports on its new commissions, efforts at engaging Material can also be sent “Attn: Submissions/Readers Write/Milestones/Obituaries/ young adults, inter-church dialogue and the growth of the worldwide Calendar” by postal mail or fax to our head office. Mennonite body of believers. Reprint requests: [email protected] Where will the children play? 21 Canadian Mennonite (CM) is a bi-weekly Anabaptist/ Mission statement: Saskatchewan correspondent Karin Fehderau reports that plans to Mennonite-oriented periodical which seeks to promote covenantal relationships within the church (Hebrews 10:23-25). It provides channels for sharing accurate expand Bethany Manor on public parkland has some members of the and fair information, faith profiles, inspirational/educational materials, and news local community concerned. and analyses of issues facing the church. In fulfilling its mission, the primary con- Canadian environmental advocates profiled 24 stituency of CM is the people and churches of Mennonite Church Canada and its Winnipeggers David Neufeld and Joanne Moyer, five related area churches.CM also welcomes readers from the broader inter-Men- the Canadian members of the Mennonite Creation Care nonite and inter-church scene. Editorial freedom is expressed through seeking and speaking the truth in love and by providing a balance of perspectives in news and Network, speak about their passion for God’s world. commentary. CM will be a vehicle through which mutual accountability can be Not a forecast of unseen things 26 exercised within the community of believers; the paper also encourages its readers In his new book, Nelson Kraybill writes that the Book to have open hearts and minds in the process of discerning God’s will. of Revelation is less about predicting the future than it is Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has prom- about worship, politics and devotion for believers in the ised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, first century and the 21st. and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:23-25, NRSV). Regular features: Board of Directors (by appointing body): For discussion 8 Readers write 9 Milestones 12 MC Canada: , Ed Janzen, Les Klassen Hamm, Joon Hyoung Park, Doreen Martens; Pontius’ Puddle 13 Yellow Pages 28 Calendar 29 MC B.C.: Linda Matties; MC Alberta: James Moyer; Classifieds 30 MC Saskatchewan: Joe Neufeld; MC Manitoba: Al Friesen; MC Eastern Canada: Tim Reimer; How green is Canadian Mennonite? 2 CMPS: Carl DeGurse, Margaret Ewen Peters, Tobi Thiessen Dick Benner Board Chair: Tobi Thiessen, [email protected], 416-622-7850 Time to prioritize 9 Head Office Staff: Dick Benner, Editor/Publisher, [email protected] Lisa Carr-Pries Ross W. Muir, Managing Editor, [email protected] Joy and finances 10 Barb Draper, Editorial Assistant, [email protected] Dori Zerbe Cornelsen Dan Johnson, Graphic Designer, [email protected] Lisa Jacky, Circulation/Finance, [email protected] The grace of duty 11 Melissa Miller Advertising: Lisa Metzger, [email protected], toll-free voice mail: 1-800-378-2524 ext. 224 Correspondents: Rachel Bergen, National Correspondent, [email protected], 204-885- 2565 ext. 259; Amy Dueckman, B.C. Correspondent, [email protected], New blog postings 604-854-3735; Donita Wiebe-Neufeld, Alberta Correspondent, at canadianmennonite.org/blog/ [email protected], 780-436-3431; Karin Fehderau, Saskatchewan Correspondent, [email protected], 306-933-4209; Face to face, Pt. II: Paul Loewen Evelyn Rempel Petkau, Manitoba Correspondent, [email protected], The miracle of rest: Cheryl Woelk 204-745-2208; Dave Rogalsky, Eastern Canada Correspondent, ec@ Face to face, Pt. I: Paul Loewen canadianmennonite.org, 519-579-7258 canadianmennonite.org, 519-579-7258 Three views of our ‘multicultural’ church April Yamasaki writes of how her congregation in Abbotsford, B.C., has been deliberate in its embrace of ‘mak[ing] disciples of all nations.’ Samson Lo explains the goal of Mennonite Church Canada’s Multicultural Ministry and the biblical basis of ‘one church, many peoples.’ In our final piece, Joon-hyoung Park challenges the church to go beyond ‘just sharing a space with other ethnic groups’ if it wants to avoid the appearance of ‘just a landlord’s temporal charity.’

Becoming a multicultural church By April Yamasaki

n 1981, the newly formed Emmanuel Mennonite Church drew on Jesus’ words in Matthew 28:19 to express its purpose as a congregation: “To make disciples of all nations.” At the time, the in- tention was simply to begin an English-speaking Ichurch, but, in the years since, it seems to me that those I empathize with those who are words have proven to be more prophetic than anyone minorities in the church, who are not might have realized at the time. In almost three decades, Emmanuel’s original mem- sure that they can—or even want bership has grown to more than 270, as the predomi- to—‘become Mennonite,’ or who feel nantly Russian Mennonite group has been joined by people from “all nations,” including Germany, Holland, frustrated as permanent outsiders to Vietnam, China, Japan, El Salvador, Kenya and Iran. the in-group who all seem to be related. Emmanuel might not be officially “multicultural,” according to the standard definition of having a minor- ity of at least 20 percent, but there are enough visible minorities that visitors often remark on it. At Easter, the traditional greeting, “Christ is risen!” was given in a number of different languages. At our Peace Vespers last November, we deliberately included Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 5

Photo by Rachel bergen

Emmanuel Mennonite Church, Abbotsford, B.C., is an intentional multicultural congregation. Pictured from left to right: John Cheny, Shigali Dembede, Alayne Cheny holding Naomi Cheny, pastor April Yamasaki, Janice Redekop holding Callahan Redekop, and Masako Moriyama.

prayers in English, German, Portuguese, sure whether to be more surprised that they can—or even want to—“become Farsi, Arabic, Japanese, Swahili and the church was calling a woman pastor or Mennonite,” or who feel frustrated as Halq’eméylem. someone who—in their minds at least— permanent outsiders to the in-group who In a recent sermon, I noted that “com- “just wasn’t Mennonite.” all seem to be related. munity is the work of God in our lives. It’s Still, the church took the risk, and so I also empathize with those who find not something that we can accomplish on did I. And it’s that same kind of risk- change difficult, who may even feel that our own. It’s God who transforms us.” So taking and openness to change that is they are losing “their” church. Both need none of us can take credit for the growth necessary if we are to become more to hear that together we can become and change in the church over the years. multicultural and accept the challenge of more than we are, that we can become Yet humanly speaking, I also believe opening the doors of the church and the more and more the people that God is that there are a number of key dynamics doors of our hearts to others. calling us to be. that have had an important role: • Empathy: Years ago, when we were • Being deliberate: It takes effort to • Risk-taking: I realize that Emmanuel both in our 30s, a friend visited a church talk to the stranger in the church foyer took a huge risk in calling me as a pastor where she was the only “white” person. instead of focusing only on those we al- 17 years ago. The church had wanted a “It was the first time I felt like a minority,” ready know and love. It takes time to get pastor with previous experience; I had she said to me. How strange, I thought, to know and include the gifts of others— none. The church had wanted a pastor that it took her that many years to feel not in a token way, but in a real way that trained in an Anabaptist-Mennonite that kind of difference! makes a difference. school; my degree was from an inter- I empathize with those who are minor- In gatherings for prayer, I let people denominational school. Some weren’t ities in the church, who are not sure that know that they can pray in the language 6 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

they prefer. In worship, we sometimes moves us beyond ourselves and our own seated on the throne, and to the Lamb!’ ” sing songs in a language other than circles. In that way, the original founders Ever since I came to Canada I have English, or encourage people to sing in of Emmanuel certainly got it right: We heard and seen so much of how “Canada the language they prefer. As I write this, need to make disciples of all nations. is a rainbow of colours,” with people from though, I realize how little we actually do We still have a lot to learn, and often numerous different cultures, such that it these things and I pray for more deliber- stumble on the way. But by God’s grace, has become a microcosm of the world’s ate action. that vision is still before us. l ethnic, religious, linguistic and racial • Vision: To be—or become—a multi- diversity. As former prime minister Jean cultural church, we need a vision for the April Yamasaki is pastor of Emmanuel Chretien put it: “It contains the globe church that is bigger than those who are Mennonite Church, Abbotsford, B.C. within its borders.” Indeed, we have the already part of the church, a vision that world coming to us. What an opportu- nity! What a privilege! The objective of this Multicultural Ministry office is “to work towards One church, integration of people groups within Mennonite congregations, and cooper- ation among people of different ethnic, social, national, political and religious many peoples backgrounds.” In short, we want to build By Samson Lo bridges to ethnic groups, be attentive to their needs and make sure that they are better served by MC Canada programs travelled throughout Europe in the early 1980s. I had the It was God’s intention that there be good, Iopportunity to come across harmonious relationships between all people, some Mennonites and learn something about Anabaptist his- and between people and their Creator. tory and teaching, preparing me for God’s leading to Vancouver, were prophetic voices that called and better represented in denominational B.C., in the late ’90s, where for a move towards reclaiming leadership. I began serving with Chinese Grace that “goodness” and being reunited with The office of Multicultural Ministry Mennonite Church. In this capacity I God and with people, such as in Psalm has an important mission, and it takes was then elected to serve for six years on 100: 1, where “all the Earth” is to “make a a concerted effort to bring everyone the Committee of Church Ministries for joyful noise to the Lord.” together. Besides diversity in culture, Mennonite Church British Columbia. With the coming of Jesus we have a language, tradition, practice and custom, Inspired by the recommendations of renewed call to all people “that they may there are also geographical restrictions, Hugo Neufeld’s report, “The Diversity all be one” (John 17). With Christ’s death as our multicultural congregations are so Project,” MC Canada took on the biblical on the cross and his resurrection, the way widely dispersed in different major cities mandate of striving to maintain good, was paved for reconciliation with God across the country. harmonious relationships between all and with one another. How do we bring them together, both people and between people and their At Pentecost we saw the early church physically and in spirit? How do we Creator. In 2002, MC Canada offered me coming together in over a dozen differ- break down the tangible and intangible the position of director of multicultural ent nationalities and languages. After barriers between different groups? How ministry. Since then, I have often been that, the church branched out “to all do we learn from one another and learn asked what this ministry is all about. the world,” as called for by the Great to appreciate one another? I would like When God created the first human Commission in Matthew 28:16-20. to leave these and many more questions beings in God’s image, the Bible tells us Finally, Revelation 7: 9-10 prophesizes with us as food for thought. l that “God saw that it was very good.” It a beautiful picture of things to be, where was God’s intention that there be good, “a great multitude that no one could Samson Lo lives in Vancouver, B.C., harmonious relationships between all count, from every nation, from all tribes where he serves as pastor of Chinese people, and between people and their and peoples and languages, [stood] before Grace Mennonite Church and direc- Creator. But sin destroyed that ideal state, the throne before the Lamb, robed in tor of Mennonite Church Canada’s which finally culminated in the Tower of white, with palm branches in their hands. Multicultural Ministry. Babel, where multi-ethnicity started. They cried out in a loud voice, saying: Throughout the Old Testament, there ‘Salvation belongs to our God who is Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 7

church does not just happen. Everyone engaging in ministry must first identify Essentials for building a and then take intentional steps to turn their vision into reality. As multicultural minister and author David A. Anderson emphasizes in his multicultural church book Multicultural Ministry, “intention- By Joon-hyoung Park ality is absolutely critical” to the success of multicultural ministry. Just as Jesus placed himself in an environment where ccording to research greater tool for becoming a mis- he would have social contact with non- conducted by soci- sional, multicultural church than Jewish people, like the Samaritan woman, Aologists Curtiss Paul the witness of diverse believers we should also recognize that intention- Deyoung, Michael O. Emerson, walking, working and worship- ality is the key premise of evangelizing George Yancey and Karen Chai ping God together as one in and people. Kim, 92.5 percent of Catholic and through the local church. I have no doubt that people in many, Protestant churches throughout if not most, homogeneous Mennonite the U.S. can be classified as “monoracial.” The pitfall of multicultural awareness churches would sincerely state that they This term describes a church in which A few multicultural churches among would not intentionally turn anyone 80 percent or more of the individuals Canadian Mennonites have recently away. If asked, they might say something who attend are of the same ethnicity or been seemingly aware of embracing all like, “We welcome anyone to become a race. The remaining churches—just 7.5 nations under one roof. They may listen part of our church,” or point to the fact percent—can be described as multiracial. to their cultural demands on the style that “a few families” of diverse ethnicity The majority of churches, whether or of worship, communion—and other do attend their otherwise homogeneous not they appear seriously multicultural, trivial practices—only as far as it does fellowship. still fall behind in embracing the true not affect the church’s direction and In fact, some pastors have specifically meaning of multiculturalism and apply- growth. Going through tough and subtle stated, “We would love to have more di- ing it practically among their members. turbulences stemming from their cultural verse individuals in our church as long as In their minds they may believe that the concoctions, they only learn to be patient they like our music, our preaching style, 21st century is an era of “acceptance” and persevering, and do not tackle the and our spirit. But they should not expect and “adaptation,” but they do not know challenge of resolving and reconciling in us to change for them.” how to practically react to new multicul- faith. These well-meaning homogeneous tural surroundings and how to warm- Mennonite churches, as a whole, as people are not doing anything intention- heartedly welcome people of different they stubbornly or conventionally stick to ally to turn diverse others away. However, cultures. Instead, they easily hunker their own principles and practices, can be they are not doing anything to draw them down, defending uniformity and resisting categorized as practitioners of low-level in either. And this is, to be honest, exactly diversity. multicultural awareness. Both denial and the impression I received when I first Surely, it must break the heart of God defence are typical icons for them. Soon joined a Mennonite church in 2004, and to see so many Christians and churches they jump up to the next stage of self- the observation remains unchanged since throughout this country segregated and complacence, declaring, “We are okay then. detached racially and culturally from one now.” Without any sacrificial intentionality, it another, and that little has changed since is useless to build a multicultural church. it was first observed that 11 o’clock on Intentionality needed to create Note that just sharing a church space Sunday morning is the most segregated a multicultural church with other ethnic groups—or renting hour in North America. To create a harmonious mixture from space out to them—is not a multicultural In an increasingly connected—yet different-coloured ingredients requires a ministry; it is just a landlord’s temporal stubbornly sectarian Mennonite world— fundamental premise among leaders and charity. l it is time to recognize that there is no lay people: intentionality. A multicultural Joon-hyoung Park is an intercultural edu- In fact, some pastors have specifically stated, ‘We would cator and author, and a member of the Canadian Mennonite Publishing Service love to have more diverse individuals in our church as board. long as they like our music, our preaching style, and our spirit. But they should not expect us to change for them.’ 8 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Photo composite by Ryan Roth Bartel Who are our multicultural Mennonites? By Deborah Froese Mennonite Church Canada Release

nce upon a time, Mennonite • 30th anniversary of Toronto Chinese congregations in Canada could Mennonite Church, Ont. Olargely define themselves by • 15th anniversary of First United Spanish German or Swiss Mennonite heri- Mennonite, Vancouver, B.C. tage, but no more. Mennonite Church • Calgary Chinese Mennonite Church, Canada congregations now represent Alta., celebrated the installation of lead an increasing variety of cultural and pastor Joseph Liou. ethnic backgrounds; currently, 49 of • Western Hmong Mennonite Church, them worship in 19 languages other than Maple Ridge, B.C., joined both MC The “What makes a Mennonite” bro- English or German, including Amharic British Columbia and MC Canada. chure has been translated into Spanish, (Ethiopian and Eritrean), Cantonese, • Calgary Vietnamese Mennonite Church, traditional and simplified Chinese, Chin, Hmong, Japanese, Karan, Korean, Alta., held a Vietnamese Sunday service Korean, Vietnamese and Chin, while Laotian, Mandarin, Spanish, Tamil, Thai in Saskatoon, Sask. other language translations, such as and Vietnamese. • Korean Anabaptist Fellowship in Hmong and Laotian, are planned. As the tapestry of MC Canada grows Canada celebrated its annual gathering in These resources are available from the more diverse, it has increased oppor- Calgary during the MC Canada assembly Mennonite Church Canada Resource tunities to learn about Christians from there. l Centre, Winnipeg, Man. around the world, strengthening the de- nomination’s relationship with the global Mennonite church. Spanish-speaking congregations, including First Mennonite Church, Kitchener, Ont.; First United Spanish Mennonite Church, Vancouver, For discussion B.C.; and Iglesia Nueva Vida in Toronto, ΛΛ Ont., relate to Iglesia Menonita Hispana, 1. How homogeneous is your congregation? How long does it take for “outsiders” to the North American conference of feel welcome? What extra challenges does someone from a visible minority have to Spanish-speaking Mennonites. Lao, feel accepted? What should Mennonite congregations do so that people from other Vietnamese and Korean congregations cultures can feel welcomed and included? also belong to North American bodies. 2. Do you think all Mennonite congregations should be intentionally multicultural? According to Samson Lo, director Why is it important? Can a denomination be called multicultural if it has congrega- of Multicultural Ministry, Anabaptist tions of different ethnicities, or does it require that most congregations have a good Mennonite peace and justice theology variety in the racial mix? attracts and stirs passion in newcomers to Canada. “Some of these people were 3. What are the barriers or challenges for congregations to become multicultural? refugees and had experienced persecu- Joon-hyoung Park refers to the style of worship and communion as “trivial practices” tion in their home countries. That’s why that we need to be willing to change in order to be more accommodating to those they fully appreciate and agree with the of other cultures. Do you agree? What role does language play in isolating cultures Anabaptist values,” Lo wrote in an update from each other? on multicultural ministry. 4. How much do congregations that worship in a language other than English feel part of Mennonite Church Canada or their area church? Do you think English- Multicultural celebrations speakers feel or act superior to Mennonites whose first language is something other This year, several of MC Canada’s multi- than English? What needs to happen for Mennonite churches to become more cultural congregations celebrate anniver- multicultural? saries and special events: Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 9

Viewpoints EE Church leaders seek a world without nuclear weapons ΛΛReaders write (Excerpted from a letter written to Prime Minister We welcome your comments and publish most letters sent Stephen Harper on June 25 and signed by Robert J. by subscribers intended for publication. Respecting our Suderman, general secretary of Mennonite Church theology of the priesthood of all believers and of the im- Canada. and all of the other leaders of the Canadian portance of the faith community discernment process, this Council of Churches denominations.) section is a largely open forum for the sharing of views. Letters are the opinion of the writer only—publication We write this letter to encourage you and your does not mean endorsement by the magazine or the church. government to give renewed and urgent attention to Letters should be brief and address issues rather than nuclear disarmament. individuals. Our call for the elimination of nuclear weapons Please send letters to be considered for publication to is rooted in our certain knowledge that the Earth is [email protected] or by postal mail or fax, God’s and that all that is in it is under both God’s love marked “Attn: Readers Write” (our address is on page 3). and judgment. We know that God has placed before Letters should include the author’s contact information us and all people in all generations the choice between and mailing address. Letters are edited for length, style life and death, desiring for all people not only life but and adherence to editorial guidelines. the abundant life of peace with justice. From Our Leaders Time to prioritize Lisa Carr-Pries September gives us the opportunity to once again reorder our lives, reserving a t’s September again. I’m sure I’m volunteers to assist in our programs and place for God that allows us to develop not alone when I acknowledge the recruit others to enrol in those programs. an ever-deepening relationship with God Ivariety of feelings that accompany Board rooms and fellowship halls are and with others. fall’s arrival. We move from a season that booked to capacity and it becomes tough Creating a new rhythm can absorb is relatively free from structure into one to schedule meetings and events. Tension all of our attention and we often tune where schedules and activities shape the builds between personal schedules and out God’s still small voice. Embrace the rhythm of each day for the next eight to the church calendar. We stress, we ques- unexpected. Be open to the opportunity 10 months. tion each other’s priorities, and we worry you never anticipated and welcome the Some enter this period of transition about the health of our programs or our invitation to participate in something with great anticipation, burned-out volunteers. new. Be willing to hear and see in new while others are more ap- Without a doubt, September can be ways. Many of us think we don’t have the prehensive about the road tough. But the pain of September is really luxury of being able to drop everything ahead. As parents of three the pain of change, of giving birth to a and pursue new aspirations or oppor- school-aged children, my new year rich with potential and pos- tunities, but this season of re-ordering husband and I find that September is sibility. Although we may hope to just provides a chance to create time for the a time where five schedules fill up and survive September, if we look deeper new things we are called to do. collide. Piano. Sunday school. Volunteer we’ll find that it offers us an opportunity It’s not really about piano, Sunday commitments. Hockey. After we decide to encounter God. school or hockey. We need to embrace on our activities, we must figure out how Making space for God and hearing the fact that we are beloved children of we can possibly manage the details and God’s voice in the chaotic and hectic pace God. And in doing so, we consciously sheer logistics of getting everyone where of the month is something that each of attune ourselves to the nudges of God’s they need to be, when they need to be us can deliberately choose to do. Begin Spirit, prioritizing our formation into there. simply. Start each day by asking for God’s Christ’s likeness. If it’s not on the schedule, it won’t presence and direction in your life. End happen. each day by reflecting on where you Lisa Carr-Pries chairs the Mennonite Church life is similar. At the end noticed God’s presence. At church, sur- Church Canada Christian Formation of August, we begin searching for round each meeting in prayer. Council. 10 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

We are called to love our enemies, and we are life, threatening humanity and the planet itself, such convinced that this cannot be accomplished through measures must be unequivocally rejected. We cannot the build‐up of nuclear arsenals. Nuclear weapons conceive how the use of nuclear weapons could be jus- have only one capacity, and that is for mass, indis- tified and consistent with the will of God, and we must criminate destruction with a power so great that it therefore conclude that nuclear weapons must also be threatens the very existence of the human community rejected as a means of threat or deterrence. and the environment that sustains it. Nuclear arsen- The United States and Russia carry the heaviest als cannot defend against attack or protect humanity weight of responsibility to set an ambitious pace for or any part of God’s creation. We believe that to rely disarmament. The new U.S./Russia strategic arms on nuclear weapons, to threaten nuclear attack as a treaty signed on April 8 is an important step. We foundation for security, is to acquiesce to spiritual and believe that Canada, along with the international moral bankruptcy. We say without reservation that community, has a vital role to play in encouraging the when measures employed to defend nation states and United States and Russia to persist in disarmament human institutions undermine God’s gift of abundant efforts.

God, Money and Me

our creating, saving God. Therefore, Joy and finances generosity is part of who we are as well. “When we don’t give, or give only Dori Zerbe Cornelsen token amounts, we resist our nature and deprive ourselves of one of life’s greatest s it realistic to contemplate joy as a per year. “We’re spending without stress joys,” he writes. “When we give, we live potential outcome of setting financial for the first time in our lives,” one spouse in harmony with our design. That’s why Ipriorities? In our increasingly com- gushed. being generous provides us with so much plex financial world this may seem naïve. Given this outcome, I wonder if the pleasure.” A fairly common metaphor for manag- educator thought to suggest generosity— There are many generosity stories ing money that Mennonite Foundation the “share jar”—as a solution to the real that confirm the joy of giving. On of Canada staff use has three jars: one for financial anxiety this couple was experi- boldergiving.org, a website dedicated to share, one for save, one for spend. Nathan encing. It is possible that generosity was sharing stories from philanthropists to Dungan has developed this metaphor as presented as a “regret-free living” option, encourage more giving, Molly Stranahan, part of his Financial Sanity program on although the emphasis of the article heiress of the founder of the Champion sharesavespend.com. This idea is not new was on the couple’s joy of spending on Spark Plug Company, stresses, “I ex- in this column and has even generated themselves. perience every day that being generous some pointed response when potential Moving from stockpile to shopper isn’t enhances my happiness.” percentages of income have been at- a great financial success story, according “Giving infuses life with joy,” writes tached to the three-jar metaphor. to author Matt Bell in Money Purpose Joy. Randy Alcorn. It was with interest, then, that I read an In the quest for more, either more sav- Perhaps it is time that more of us plan article in a recent edition of MoneySense ings and investments or more stuff, both our finances with an expectation of joy as magazine called “The joy of spending.” It forms of this common North American a return by giving generously. presented the dilemma of a couple who were unable to rid themselves of Moving from stockpile to shopper isn’t their anxiety about money because a great financial success story. they were “extreme savers,” savers with significant financial assets with which they couldn’t part. The solution of- consumer financial identity become fered by a financial counsellor was to “set caught up in a cycle of declining returns, Dori Zerbe Cornelsen is a stewardship up three ‘money pots’—one for savings, which only feeds the desire for even more consultant at the Winnipeg, Man., office one for emergency cash [six months’ to to be happy. of Mennonite Foundation of Canada one year’s worth] and a third pot for . . . The root of true joy in our lives is (MFC). For stewardship education and ‘regret-free living.’ ” The couple adapted generosity, Bell claims. He reminds his estate and charitable gift planning, well to this system with their regret-free readers that we are made in God’s im- contact your nearest MFC office or visit pot now funding two Caribbean cruises age and that generosity is at the heart MennoFoundation.ca. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 11

All other states that possess nuclear weapons also monitoring and inspections work. have an obligation to progressively and verifiably Collective global action to verifiably ban nuclear reduce their arsenals, to end all planning for new weapons will yield tangible economic and security systems, and to reshape their security architecture benefits, and it will release political, psychological in accord with the vision of a world without nuclear and spiritual resources on which humanity can draw weapons. to address the other daunting challenges that con- Non‐nuclear-weapons states have an obligation front us. . . . to conduct their nuclear energy programs in com- As Christian leaders we also understand our own plete openness and with an unqualified willingness obligation to encourage our respective faith commu- to meet the most stringent and reliable inspections nities to become part of a great global movement for requirements. We therefore urge Canada to foster nuclear disarmament. verification efforts and technologies, and to ensure We appreciate your attention to our concerns and that the International Atomic Energy Agency has the wish to assure you of our prayers as you exercise your resources it needs to carry out its critically important responsibilities. l

Family Ties

God’s grace. The grace of duty We see some of this in the biblical story of Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi. Melissa Miller The two women had fallen on hard times; Naomi urged Ruth to look after herself s it just about duty?” my friend avoidance of pain, self-centredness and and leave Naomi to her own fate. Ruth wondered. “Is that the only rea- irresponsibility. “The heart wants what chose the path of duty. She kept walking “Ison to stay in the relationship? the heart wants,” proclaimed filmmaker with Naomi, as they cared for each other. Duty seems so flat and colourless. What Woody Allen in 1992, to justify his sexual By the end of the story, they had encoun- about joy and excitement and fun?” relationship with his stepdaughter. More tered much grace, including a new home, It’s a good question. At the time, we recently, we witnessed the buck-passing security and new life. were discussing marriages, and the times of many individuals in the companies re- The grace that is present in the story when it’s tough to hang in. When the sponsible for the ruptured oil well in the of Ruth has another name, chesed in appeal of personal fulfillment, self-actu- Gulf of Mexico. Who sings the praises of Hebrew, or “steadfast love.” Naomi uses alization or “following one’s bliss” seems duty, of “doing the right thing”? this word near the beginning of the story much more attractive than the dutiful With thought, it doesn’t take long as she blesses Ruth: “May the Lord deal plodding through the mundane terrain of before we see the value of duty, not the kindly with you, as you have dealt with keeping faith. least of which are the benefits we’ve me” (Ruth 1:8). While marriage was the topic of conversation, it could Walking the pathway of duty, we have been about other kinds of relationships or commit- encounter the river of God’s grace. ments. Most of us have had at least some moments when duty was the received from others who have met Steadfast love, the kind of constant, only thing that compelled our response— their obligations. I am grateful for my compassionate faithfulness that God a calm reply to an overwrought child; parents’ example: their capacity to stick offers us, can enliven our acts of duty and a phone call to an estranged friend or with each other through good times and brighten our mundane paths. Walking relative; a visit to a hospital bedside; at- bad, and their steadfast support to their the pathway of duty, we encounter the tendance at a funeral we wanted to avoid. aging parents and prickly teenagers. They river of God’s grace. God’s grace and At such times, it is duty that reminds us would probably agree with these words steadfast love provides the strength we of our obligations to people and commu- from an old Salvation Army hymn: “By need to walk the path of duty. nities that stretch beyond our personal the pathway of duty flows the river of preferences or comfort. God’s grace.” As we take our measured, Melissa Miller ([email protected]) Duty doesn’t get a lot of credit in our sometimes reluctant steps of duty, we are lives in Winnipeg, Man., where she larger culture. We hear more mes- refreshed, and occasionally even over- ponders family relationships as a pastor, sages promoting individual freedom, the whelmed, by the abundant sweetness of counsellor and author. 12 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

EE Authoritarian brutality much Pittsburgh, Pa. more sophisticated now Kropf—Kyra Beth (b. Aug. 1, 2010), to Bethany and Trevor Kropf, East Zorra Mennonite, Tavistock, Ont. Martens—Dylan Parker (b. July 16, 2010), to Karl Martens skewed G20 protest,” Aug. 2, Re: “Major media and Michelle McKinnell, Hagerman Mennonite, Ont., and page 23. Osler Mennonite, Sask. Laura Dyck presents a brave and positive picture of Ott—Nicholas Elgersma (b. July 16, 2010), to Sandra the experiences of the protesters themselves; they “did Elgersma and Dave Ott, Ottawa Mennonite, Ont. not simply talk about peace and justice as a rosy ideal. Ponsen—Zoey Rose (b. June 20, 2010), to Annette They lived it out in the face of violent opposition,” she McDowell and Jordan Ponsen, Community Mennonite, writes. At the same time, she admits that the message Stouffville,O nt. of the protesters “did not make it onto the primetime Regehr—Annika Sophie Helene (b. July 19, 2010), to Jon n e w s .” and Rachel Regehr, Glenlea Mennonite, Man. It seems to me that there is a plaintive question lurk- Yazdani—Saviz (b. July 19, 2010), to Kendra Reddekopp and ing behind the whole article: Why is this not working? Parviz Yazdani, Osler Mennonite, Sask. It worked for Gandhi! It worked for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.! Why doesn’t it work for us? Baptisms This is a very good question, but the answer is pretty disturbing. During the Gandhi and King protests, it Kelsey Beam—Shantz Mennonite, Baden, Ont., July 11, 2010. was still possible to shame the authorities; it was still Matt Gain, Jacob Philpott—Community Mennonite, a time when there were certain things the authorities Stouffville,O nt., June 13, 2010. would not do: namely, shoot down peaceful protesters. Mack Gingerich—East Zorra Mennonite, Ont., May 30, During the 1968 demonstrations in France, President 2010. Correction. Charles de Gaulle had to interview at least five gener- Ella Ruth Kendall—Erie View United Mennonite, Port als before he found one who agreed to shoot down Rowan, Ont., May 23, 2010. students. Hailey Innocent, Hanna Innocent, Julie Innocent— At this time I do not know of anything a govern- Rosthern Mennonite, Sask., July 25, 2010. ment would not do. I’m sure our Canadian author- Broek Bosma, Jessica Morrison, Bill Allan Junior— ities, had they felt it necessary to shoot and kill some Toronto United Mennonite, Ont., Aug. 1, 2010. protesters, would have had their stories ready to justify Jasmine Janzen—Wildwood Mennonite, Saskatoon, Sask., such killings. July 11, 2010. I seem to remember that it is in Orwell’s dystopian novel, 1984, where one image of the future of the Marriages world is a jackboot forever stomping on a face. While Amendt/Bartel—Cheryl Amendt and Justin Bartel (North jackboot stomping has gone out of fashion, brutality Star Mennonite, Drake, Sask.), at Jansen, Sask., July 31, 2010. has not. It has just become much more sophisticated, Bartel/Krysa—Bryce D. Bartel and Danika Krysa, at North as Joshua Enns and others experienced at the G20 Star Mennonite, Drake, Sask., July 24, 2010. protests. Bender/Lloyd—Laurel Bender and Brian Lloyd, Tavistock Jim G. Suderman, Winnipeg, Man. Mennonite, Ont., at the home of the bride’s parents in Kitchener, June 26, 2010. Bergen/Neufeld—Claire Bergen (Crystal City Mennonite, Man.) and Darren Neufeld (Glenlea Mennonite, Man.) at Crystal City Mennonite, July 24, 2010. ΛΛMilestones Bradnam/Farrell—Jonathan Bradnam and Michelle Births/Adoptions Farrell, at Niagara United Mennonite, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., July 24, 2010. Belletrutti—Matthew James (b. July 26, 2010), to Becky and Paul Belletrutti, Foothills Mennonite, Calgary, Alta. Brenneman/Brubacher—Jeremy Brenneman and Beverly Brubacher, Poole Mennonite, Ont., at the bride’s parents’ Dow—Riley John (b. June 1, 2010), to Todd and Julie Dow, Niagara United Mennonite, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. farm, June 12, 2010. —Brian Britton and Donna McTavish, Funk—Nolan (b. July 16, 2010), to David and Amy Funk, Britton/McTavish Vineland United Mennonite, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. Wellesley Mennonite, Ont., July 17, 2010. —LeeAnn Corey and James Kuepfer, Hartman—Sierra Claire (b. Aug. 12, 2010), to Adrian and Corey/Kuepfer Lori Hartman, Foothills Mennonite, Calgary, Alta. Riverdale Mennonite, Millbank, Ont., Aug. 14, 2010. —Janelle Cressman and Jesse Gingerich, Kresta—Gregory Jakob (b. June 30, 2010), to Sandra Cressman/Gingerich Friesen (Toronto United Mennonite) and Gerald Kresta, in Kingsfield-Zurich Mennonite, Zurich,O nt., July 18, 2010. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 13

Cressman/Schuit—Jeff Cressman (Shantz Mennonite, Heinrichs—Ed, 85 (d. July 16, 2010), Lowe Farm Bergthaler Baden, Ont.) and Emily Schuit (Harrow Baptist, Ont.) in St. Mennonite, Man. Jacobs, July 17, 2010. Jones—Kathleen (Kay), 90 (b. July 30, 1919; d. July 20, 2010), Deckert/Poysti—David Deckert and Sarah Poysti, Douglas Carman Mennonite, Man. Mennonite, Winnipeg, Man., July 31, 2010. Kehler—Ann (nee Hildebrandt), 89 (b. Dec. 4, 1920; d. July Enns/Koop—Randy Enns and Noelle Koop, Sargent 17, 2010), Bergthaler Mennonite, Altona, Man. Avenue Mennonite, Winnipeg, Man., Aug. 14, 2010. Metzger—Harold, 82 (July 3, 1928; d. July 13, 2010), Ewert/Kostiuk—Tom Ewert (North Star Mennonite, Drake, Floradale Mennonite, Ont. Sask.) and Jessica Kostiuk, at Southey, Sask., July 31, 2010. Neudorf—Bernhard (Ben), 84 (b. April 30, 1926; d. Aug. 15, Hooge/Warkentin—Sarah Hooge and Lee Warkentin, 2010), Rosthern Mennonite, Sask. Nutana Park Mennonite, Saskatoon, Sask., Aug. 13, 2010. Peters—Elisabeth, 81 (b. Nov. 15, 1928; d. July 30, 2010), Hopkins/Penner—Kevin Hopkins and Juanita Penner, Niagara United Mennonite, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. Ottawa Mennonite, Ont., July 17, 2010. Reimer—Allen James, 68 (b. Aug. 10, 1942; d. Aug. 28, 2010), Klassen/Nickel—Andrew Klassen and Stephanie Nickel Rockway Mennonite, Kitchener, Ont. (Fort Garry Mennonite, Winnipeg, Man.), at Fort Garry Rempel—Rudy, 91 (b. Dec. 25, 1918; d. July 13, 2010), Mennonite, July 24, 2010. Vineland United Mennonite, Ont. Krugel/Meloche—Jeff Krugel and Candace Meloche, at Stobbe—Helena, 95 (b. Oct. 27, 1914; d. July 21, 2010), Niagara United Mennonite, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., Winkler Bergthaler, Man. Aug. 7, 2010. Suderman—Susie, 85 (b. Sept. 26, 1924; d. July 1, 2010), Otterbein/Snyder—Laura Otterbein and Mike Snyder, Winkler Bergthaler, Man. Waterloo North Mennonite, Ont., in New Dundee, Ont., Toews—Ed J., 82 (b. Aug. 26, 1927; d. July 9, 2010), Bergthaler July 24, 2010. Mennonite, Altona, Man. Stephens/Voth—Sean Stephens and Cristin Voth Warkentin—Isaac (Ike), 74 (b. July 10, 1936; d. July 11, 2010), (Bergthaler Mennonite, Altona, Man.), in Mexico, July 10, 2010. Sargent Avenue Mennonite, Winnipeg, Man. Weber—Don, 78 (b. April 29, 1932; d. July 4, 2010), Deaths Community Mennonite, Drayton, Ont. Zacharias—Frieda (nee Ginter), 82 (b. Feb. 17, 1928; d. July Bauman—Erla (nee Musselman), 80 (b. June 6, 1930; d. Aug. 16, 2010), Bergthaler Mennonite, Altona, Man. 3, 2010), St. Jacobs Mennonite, Ont. Dyck—Susan, 88 (b. July 16, 1922; d. Aug. 16, 2010), Vineland Canadian Mennonite welcomes Milestones United Mennonite, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. announcements within four months of the event. Friesen—Cornelius, 95 (b. Oct. 19, 1914; d. July 19, 2010), Please send Milestones announcements by e-mail to First Mennonite, Calgary, Alta. [email protected], including the Friesen—Louise, 97 (b. Dec. 19, 1912; d. July 28, 2010), Trinity congregation name and location. When sending death Mennonite, Calgary, Alta. notices, please include birth date and last name at birth Funk—Margaret (nee Schroeder), 83 (b. March 8, 1927; d. if available. July 20, 2010), Bergthaler Mennonite, Altona, Man. 14 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

This Preacher Has 22 Minutes Getting to the pulpit By Allan Rudy-Froese

he arrival of the be an informal chatty staircase week after week to the pulpit preacher at the affair with lots of “real” once stopped half-way up and yelled, “I Tpulpit is not as stories from the lives of will not . . . I will not go into that awful mundane as it seems. “real” people. place.” But after some moments of dead A friend of mine, a There is a history silence, he began to obediently climb into woman of short stature to observing how the the pulpit to preach. and a guest preacher in preacher arrives at the Many preachers would like to stop this case, arrived at a pulpit. In the novel and yell a similar word of protest as massive pulpit to preach Moby Dick, there is a they make their way to the pulpit. After and looked up only to chapter dedicated to much preparation, even after preaching notice that she could not how Father Mapple hundreds of times, preachers struggle even see the congrega- makes his way to the with the “awe-full” task of speaking a tion. As for the congre- pulpit in the church in relevant and good word in the name gation, most of them Nantucket, a seaport of God. James Earl Massey named this could only see tufts of for whalers. The pulpit paradox well in the title of his book, The Jane’s greying hair on stands high above the Burdensome Joy of Preaching. Preaching the top of her head. congregation and is the good news is certainly a joy, but the She tried to lower the shaped like the prow of a burden is not light. lectern on the pulpit, to no avail. In her great ship. The only way to the get to the Each preacher steps into the pulpit desperation she picked up a large book pulpit is by a rope ladder “like those used in her own way, bringing the joy and on the shelf in the pulpit, placed it on the in mounting a ship from a boat at sea.” the burden of the gospel in particular floor and stood on it so as to see and be Father Mapple’s climb to get to his mortal and fragile form. The steps to the seen. She was told after the service that pulpit is a near sacred moment: “Halting pulpit may be few, but the journey is long she was actually standing on an old Bible, the one which had been ceremonially She was told after the service that she was carried into the church a century before at its founding. actually standing on an old Bible, the one The walk to the pulpit takes mere which had been ceremonially carried into the seconds, but the moment is often telling. The character of the preacher or the church a century before at its founding. sermon can sometimes be anticipated by the way the preacher gets to the pulpit. for an instant at the foot of the ladder and arduous. Many hours of reading, The preacher who walks with some . . . Father Mapple cast a look upwards, conversation, prayer, dead-ends, “aha” speed will often speak with some speed. and then with a truly sailor-like but still moments, writing and rewriting—not to Some preachers—usually men—walk reverential dexterity, hand over hand, mention side trips to the vault of blessed to the pulpit with a kind of righteous mounted the steps as if ascending the and painful experiences—have led to prophetic swagger; this preacher carries main-top of his vessel.” this moment. Having travelled for some the sense, real or imagined, that he has The narrator goes on to describe that distance, and now standing on the Word a new and controversial word for the Father Mapple, having climbed to his as the foundation under her feet, the congregation. pulpit, stooped over to slowly “drag up preacher places her notes on the pulpit Other preachers make their way with the ladder step by step.” The preacher has and begins to preach. l an air of formality, sometimes bordering confirmed his captain-like credentials on rigidity; in this case, we are likely and is ready to preach to the congrega- Allan Rudy-Froese is a student of going to get an even-keeled sermon that tion of sailors. preaching, theology and ethics at the stays within what is proper. The long trip to the pulpit can also Toronto School of Theology. He can be Another preacher may walk up with an reveal the preacher’s hesitation of the reached at [email protected]. informal gait with a coffee in hand which awesome task of preaching. An old Welsh is plunked on the pulpit; this sermon will preacher who slowly climbed the winding Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 15

Experience the

of an Amish family New Series from NY Times Bestselling Author BEVERLY LEWIS! In this riveting series debut, Beverly Lewis—the top name in Amish fi ction—gives you an open door into the hidden world of the Lancaster County Amish.

As two Amish sisters fi nd themselves on the fringes On Sale Date: of their beloved community, will they fi nd the love Sept. 7, 2010 and acceptance they long for?

The Thorn by Beverly Lewis The Rose Trilogy # 1

Heart and Soul

“No one does Amish-based inspirationals better than Lewis.”—Booklist

www.bethanyhouse.com A Division of Baker Publishing Group

7676_theThorn_CanadianMennonite.indd 1 8/9/10 4:28:01 PM 16 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

God at work in the Church plans to hold a Global Mission Fellowship event in 2013 somewhere in Asia. MWC reports a good year Budgets and opportunities While MWC is currently in good financial By J. Lorne Peachey shape, it is not yet in a position to simul- Mennonite World Conference Release taneously establish representation and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia offices on each continent, treasurer Ernst Bergen of Paraguay told the committee. ennonite World Conference is in Committee that they have begun their This plan has been listed in MWC’s finan- “Mgood shape. There are no crisis work electronically and in person. All have cial projections as an “opportunity,” along areas. What we agreed to do, we have been plans for future work: with several other things that MWC will able to do.” • Faith and Life Commission is an- do as funds become available. With those words, general secretary Larry ticipating surveying member churches on Income for current operations is meet- Miller, who will leave his post in 2012 after practices related to baptism and the Lord’s ing expenses, said Karen Martin-Schiedel more than two decades of service, summar- Supper; of Canada, MWC’s director of finance ized the work of MWC to the Executive • Peace Commission has plans for a and administration. But because of addi- Committee when it gathered in Addis study of peace practices in Anabaptist- tional costs due to changes facing MWC, Ababa this summer for its annual meeting. related churches globally; an “unrestricted fund” budget of $897,000 • Deacons Commission has identified (all funds in US dollars) calls for $150,000 New commissions two or more global Anabaptist deacons in to come from reserves designated for the Finalized in 2009, the four commis- each continent to be available especially in transition period. sions—Faith and Life, Peace, Deacons and times of crisis; and Mission—each reported to the Executive • Mission Commission announced MWC Executive Committee prefers U.S. for 2015 assembly the global family into their homes and fellowships,” com- By Phyllis Pellman Good mented Miller. “While it is financially possible for many Mennonite World Conference Release persons from the North to travel south, the Executive Committee stated clearly its desire not to deprive our t its annual meeting this summer in Ethiopia, member churches in the North of welcoming the global Athe Executive Committee of Mennonite World church, of offering hospitality, and of experiencing Conference (MWC) unanimously stated a preference firsthand the wonder of fellowshipping and worshipping for holding the next MWC assembly in the United States with sisters and brothers from around the world.” in 2015. Indonesia will be considered as the alternate The Executive Committee acknowledged that serious choice for 2015, if plans for the U.S. do not work out, and visa problems may exist for participants wanting to enter as the first choice for the site of the 2021 assembly. the U.S. from particular countries. Committee members Before a decision on holding the next global assembly made a commitment for MWC to vigorously pursue in the U.S. is made, general secretary Larry Miller said, legal efforts and to pray ceaselessly for admission of all “we need to discuss with the MWC member churches in who wish to attend the assembly. the U.S.A. whether they desire to host the next assembly, After careful study and serious consideration of al- and if they do, we need to do a feasibility study of the site ternatives, the committee also acted to reconfirm the they propose.” American churches had offered to host the six-year cycle of MWC assemblies. 2009 assembly, which was ultimately held in Paraguay. Several significant anniversaries related to Anabaptist The last three assemblies have been held in the Global history will take place in 2025 and 2027. For that reason, South: Calcutta, India, in 1997; Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, in the European member churches will likely invite MWC to 2003; and Asuncion, Paraguay in 2009. hold the assembly on their continent in 2027. At the same “Despite the fact that the majority of Mennonites and time, MWC will consider how best to celebrate globally Brethren in Christ live in the Southern Hemisphere, in 2025 the 500th anniversary of the first Anabaptist bap- Executive Committee members believe it is essential that tism (January 1525) and the 100th anniversary of the first churches in the North have the opportunity to welcome Mennonite world conference (June 1925). l Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 17

Engaging youths The largest of these national churches is 1982, when the church went underground MWC’s staff liaison for youth, Elina Meserete Kristos Church of Ethiopia, which because of persecution by the then-com- Ciptadi-Perkins, and Ayub Omondi Awich hosted the Executive Committee sessions. munist government, it had 5,000 members. of Kenya, African representative on the “We now have 189,296 baptized mem- MKC emerged in 1991 “from the dark Youth Task Force, met with the Executive bers in 518 local congregations,” MKC time of persecution” with a membership Committee to outline plans for a new chair Tewodros Beyene reported. MKC of 50,000. And it has been growing ever Young Anabaptists Network to work with also has 867 church-planting projects. since. young people in five areas: networking, MKC executive secretary Kenna Dula “God has been very good to us,” said fellowship, capacity building, decision- described how the church began 60 Beyene. “In spite of the challenges, MKC making and Anabaptist identity. years ago out of missionary work by the is now completely self-sustaining with no “Young people are interested in MWC and Lancaster (Pa.) Mennonite Conference. In assistance from outside sources.” l want to be involved,” Ciptadi-Perkins said. The group comes with an $85,000 sur- plus from the Global Youth Summit held Motorcyclists bond in Paraguay in connection with Assembly 15.

Inter-church dialogue through weekend ride By Amy Dueckman After hearing positive and emotional reports B.C. Correspondent from the MWC representatives who had just Abbotsford, B.C. come from the Lutheran World Federation event in Stuttgart, Germany—at which n what’s become a tradition in only three through the Fraser Canyon before heading Lutherans apologized for the legacy of the Iyears, 15 riders on 12 bikes came togeth- home to the Lower Mainland. persecution of Anabaptists in the 16th cen- er for the third annual Mennonite Church On Sunday morning five bikers from tury—the Executive Committee approved B.C. Motorcycle Ride, held August 14-15. South Abbotsford Mennonite Brethren participation in two inter-church dialogues: Organized by conference minister Garry Church also joined the MC B.C. bikers in • Bilateral conversations with the World Janzen, this year’s ride had 12 men and three Lytton, swelling the numbers to 17 bikes Conference of Seventh Day Adventists on women from various MC B.C. congrega- and 20 riders altogether. “lifestyles as Christians,” particularly the tions uniting for fellowship and sightseeing. Cheryl Dyck of Mission, who went on biblical understandings and practices of The ride spanned two days, with Valley rid- the ride with her husband, believes this peace; and ers beginning at Columbia Bible College in now-annual summer event is a way—albeit • Tri-lateral conversations on baptism be- Abbotsford and meeting up with western a non-traditional one—to bond MC B.C. tween the Lutheran World Federation, the area riders in North Vancouver. “It’s another way for various congrega- Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian The route took riders along Duffey tions to come together, for various guys Unity of the Catholic Church, and MWC. Lake Road heading through Squamish to and gals from different congregations to Both dialogues are to begin in 2011. Whistler and Pemberton, and an overnight get to know one another,” she said. “And Representatives from Latin America, stay in Lillooet, with individuals choosing it’s a way to enjoy the sights and smells of while approving, urged caution. “Given to camp or stay in motels. After a Sunday outdoors.” l the reservations that some of our church- morning devotional led by Janzen, the es have, because of persecution from the group continued to Cache Creek and down With files from Garry Janzen. Catholics in the past and statements which continue to this day, it’s very important that Photo courtesy of Garry Janzen the objectives for dialogue be very clear,” said Edgardo Sanchez. MWC growing As of this June, MWC member church- es totalled nearly 1.2 million baptized members, an increase of 30,000 over the previous year. These members worship in congregations in 99 conferences in 56 countries. Baptized membership in all Anabaptist-related churches, both MWC members and those not members, totalled The third annual Mennonite Church B.C. Motorcycle Ride also included bikers 1.67 milllion. from South Abbotsford Mennonite Brethren Church. 18 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Photo by Dale D. Gehman escaped from prison but stopped running A faith to die for to rescue his pursuer, who had fallen into an icy pond, only to be recaptured and exe- Recorded to stir spiritual cuted in 1569. revival and preserve nonviolent “These are heroic, mythic tales designed ethic, Martyrs Mirror to inspire allegiance to Mennonite identity accounts still inspire awe and conformity to its ethic of nonviolence at any cost,” said Julia Spicher Kasdorf, pro- By Celeste Kennel-Shank fessor of writing at Penn State University For Meetinghouse in University Park. Elizabethtown, Pa. Jeffrey Bach, left, director of the Young Nurturing nonresistance Center at Elizabethtown College, Pa., artyrs Mirror is newer than the In the early 1740s, German-speaking checks out a copy of the Martyrs Mirror MBible and longer than some copies Mennonite immigrants to Pennsylvania with Diane Windham Shaw of Lafayette of it. ended efforts to gain exemption from College, Easton, Pa., right. Like the Bible, though, the book has a military service after colonial authorities powerful message for today, said James directed them to take their request to the Lowry, a Mennonite historian from king’s officials in England. “Rather than -at “Martyrdom resists an ecumenical age like Hagerstown, Md. “Persecution, dungeons, tempt to change public policy, they would ours,” Covington said. “[Martyrs] represent a shackles, chains are not something in our publish the Martyrs Mirror,” Kasdorf said. pure faith, a faith not watered down.” experience,” Lowry told an audience at the In 1748-49, Mennonite leaders commis- June 8-10 “Martyrs Mirror: Reflections sioned a new edition of the tome in Ephrata, Public witness Across Time” conference at Elizabethtown Pa. Several hundred copies remained un- In Martyrs Mirror, women as well as men College. sold. During the Revolutionary War, the testify to their faith and understanding of Yet people today live in a materialistic Continental army confiscated some of them truth. “Early Anabaptist women facing ar- age, as Dutch Mennonites did in 1660, to turn the paper into gun cartridges. rest and execution boldly used their voices when Thieleman van Braght revised and After the Ephrata edition, American and words to shape hostile situations to added to previous books and records about Mennonite leaders would reprint Martyrs their own ends,” said Jean Kilheffer-Hess Christian martyrs, aiming to spark spirit- Mirror during times of war, to inspire the of East Petersburg, Pa., who collects and ual renewal, Lowry said. “Martyrs Mirror preservation of nonresistance, Kasdorf studies oral histories. is the correct medicine for 21st-century said. “The martyr becomes an alternative Humility shaped the early Anabaptist Christians, and especially for Mennonites,” soldier, so the pacifist is not seen as a cow- understanding of suffering and martyr- Lowry suggested. ard, but as a hero,” Kasdorf said. dom, said Andrew Martin, a doctoral stu- More than 60 people from across the Martyrs Mirror has power even for those dent at the Toronto School of Theology, spectrum of Anabaptist-connected groups, who have not read it, Kasdorf said. She Ont. “Central to the Anabaptist ethical as well as scholars from other traditions, finds it difficult to read herself, in large part heritage is a self that was transformed on gathered for the event marking the 350th because of the antagonistic language used the journey toward ultimate truth through anniversary of the 1660 edition, called The to describe members of the state churches an encounter with God and the expecta- Bloody Theater of the Baptism-Minded who viewed Anabaptists as heretics. “It can tion of meeting him face-to- face in death,” and Defenseless Christians, which tells of get in the way of conversation with other he said. “Anabaptists have left us a spiritual martyrs from the early church and per- Christians,” she said. legacy that is foundational for Christian secuted groups in Europe through to the In the 16th century and today, heresy ethics today.” Anabaptists of the 16th and 17th centuries. and martyrdom are a matter of definition, John D. Roth, professor of history at The 1685 edition added Jan Luyken’s etch- said Sarah Covington, professor of history Goshen College, announced that the ings depicting events described in the text. at Queens College at the City University Mennonite Historical Society in Goshen, One story tells of Anneken Jans, drowned of New York, N.Y. “One person’s martyr Ind., is planning a conference on Martyrs in 1539 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, is another person’s terrorist,” she said. “In Mirror in 2012, at which time the possibil- after she was arrested for singing a hymn in a sense, martyrs are religious extremists, ity of extending the collection of accounts public. Another remembers Dirk Willems since they die for what they understand to to the present day will be discussed. l from Asperen, the Netherlands, who be one unified truth.” Meetinghouse is an association of ‘Martyrdom resists an ecumenical age like ours. [Martyrs] Mennonite and Brethren in Christ publi- represent a pure faith, a faith not watered down.’ cations. Celeste Kennel-Shank is assistant editor of Mennonite Weekly Review, a (Sarah Covington) Meetinghouse publication. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 19 Is Sunday school dying? MPN looking for new ways to do ‘faith formation’ in the 21st century

By John Longhurst Mennonite Publishing Network Release

oes Sunday school have a future? “Is this situation an unusual one? Or is Church of the Brethren, will meet to begin D That’s a question being asked by a Sunday school slowly, or sometimes with a talking about what to do after Gather growing number of Mennonite churches fell swoop of fatigue, becoming extinct?” ’Round completes its second cycle. today as they deal with declining enrol- That question is very much on the mind “Will there be a need for a quarterly ment, sporadic attendance and the chal- of Ron Rempel, executive director of graded curriculum in four years, when lenge of finding teachers. Mennonite Publishing Network (MPN), Gather ’Round is finished?” Rempel won- It’s a question facing other churches, too, the publishing ministry of Mennonite ders. “Or is there something else we can do as Debra Bendis discovered. Writing on Church Canada and MC U.S.A. to help churches accomplish the important Theolog, a blog sponsored by Christian “As we hear how churches are struggling ministry of Christian formation with chil- Century magazine, Bendis shared about a to keep Sunday school going, we ask our- dren, youth and adults?” friend whose church has proposed a new selves what kind of curriculum is needed Rempel invites people to send their Sunday school schedule for fall: Classes for the changing Sunday school scene to- thoughts and ideas about the future of will only be held three out of four Sundays day,” he says. “Do we need to offer different Sunday school to [email protected]: each month. kinds of programs and products to meet • Does it have a future at your church? The teachers explained that this proposal the needs of churches? Or is Sunday school • What’s working well, and what isn’t? would provide a break for them—an idea a thing of the past?” • What kind of things will help your church that’s difficult to oppose, Bendis noted, This fall staff from MPN and Brethren pass on faith to children, and grow faith in since Sunday school teachers are just as Press, the publishing ministry of the youths and adults? l busy as the rest of the congregation, and surely deserve a break. But as the church discussed the pro- posal, a disquieting reality became clear to her friend: It’s not just teachers who want Advancing Peace, a break from Sunday school; so do fam- ilies. Lots of parents not only supported Social Justice, the idea of taking a week off, but went on to say that attending Sunday school was and Mutual Aid getting harder and harder to do. “The kids do baseball all day Saturday,” Applications are now being said one. “I just need a down day at home sometimes.” “We can’t always be there accepted from churches [Sundays]. We’re trying to do soccer as well and charitable organizations as church,” said another. “Saturday nights/ Sundays are the only days my kids can stay for the 2011 grants. over with their grandmother. That’s im- Deadline October 29, 2010. portant time, too,” stated a third. “It is all just too much to do as a single parent with kids,” added a fourth. Visit www.mscu.com Bendis’s friend is stumped. “Where do for more details. we start in a session discussion of all of this?” she asked. “How do we raise a vision for Christian education, emphasize a sense of outreach, and compete with societal Your Values expectations and choices that are bearing Your Credit Union down on our young parents?” www.mscu.com | 1.888.672.6728 The situation prompted Bendis to ask: 20 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Photo by Amy Dueckman

Mortgage burning—the modern way: Mike Redekop of the Emmanuel Mennonite Church finance committee shreds the mortgage papers for con- struction of the church gymnasium. On May 1, 2000, a mortgage of $550,000 was granted to Emmanuel Mennonite, Abbotsford, B.C., by the Mennonite Foundation of Canada for the purpose of constructing the gym. Construction was completed in 2001 at a cost of $623,000. The mortgage was officially discharged on June 8 and the church celebrated with a mortgage shredding on July 18. Church Snapshots

Photo by Cliff Derksen

Seventy descendants and numer- ous friends attended a ceremony at Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach, Man., on July 25, when the Jakob D. Reimer grave marker was unveiled. Reimer was an early leader among the Mennonite Brethren. The grave marker was found in Ukraine by Gert Martens, a Reimer descendent, in 2006 (see story May 31 issue, page 6). It had been moved when the former village of Wiesenfeld was levelled to become a wheat field. With the help of numerous people, especially that of Olga Shmakina, a Ukrainian tour guide, of- ficial permission was granted to ship the grave marker out of Ukraine to Canada. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 21

God at work in the World worried that the intersection would look too crowded with the added building. Strong emotions on the proposed changes Where will the children play? came out during the meeting when the city refused to make time for an open forum. Plans by Bethany Manor seniors complex to expand on One man was angry; others disappointed. city parkland has some community members worried “It was the only chance for the commun- ity to ask questions,” said Ruth Martens, Story and Photo by Karin Fehderau who lives at Bethany Manor. Saskatchewan Correspondent Bergen, too, was disappointed that there Saskatoon, Sask. wasn’t more discussion. Instead, people were invited to ask questions in a one-on- t’s a warm summer evening on the north because of Bethany’s expansion. one format after the meeting. Iside of Saskatoon and residents in this Plans for the expansion will take into While empathizing with area residents, busy neighbourhood are enjoying the op- account the community’s need for green Arnie Fehderau, pastor of First Mennonite, portunity to cycle, walk, play tennis or rip up space, promised the architect hired to places the blame on the shoulders of the the tarmac at the nearby skateboard park. oversee the expansion. “The park doesn’t provincial government for the problems. The focal point for many of these ac- disappear; it simply moves to the roof,” “Bethany Manor has been asking permis- tivities is the park across the street from said Alvin Fritz, calling it a “community- sion for years to build a long-term-care Bethany Manor, a large centre for retirees accessible rooftop garden.” home,” he said, wondering if this could have and seniors run by 12 different Mennonite And city planners have promised to been avoided with better management. churches. Tennis courts, a skateboard park move the tennis courts and skateboard Isaac agrees. “In 2004, when we were and a grassy area are all sandwiched neatly park to a new location nearby. planning Bethany Place [a four-storey into the park space and are widely used by A worker for the city admitted that it is independent living complex], the health the community. unusual to sell park space. “But park re- region told us there was no more capital It’s also the same space that Bethany’s development does happen,” said Roxane funding for long-term care,” she pointed administrators have their eyes on as they Melnyk, a consultant for Saskatoon’s parks out, but it now has changed its mind and seek a viable spot to expand. department, who called the expansion a sees the need for such facilities. All of this came into sharp focus at a pub- “good project.” Before expansion plans of any kind can lic meeting this summer between Bethany Comments from citizens who attended move forward at Bethany Manor, they Manor, city planners and area residents the meeting asked why the city was “selling must be approved by Saskatoon city coun- that took place at Bethany Manor. green space for a project” and some were cil. l Bethany Manor administrator Teresa Isaac presented statistics defining the needs of the retirement community in the city. “By 2026, it is projected there will be 60,000 seniors [in Saskatoon],” she said, calling it a “demographic tsunami” that will increase already-lengthy waiting lists for Bethany apartments. She also presented future health care concerns of Bethany residents if the seniors complex cannot expand nearby. “There is programming, family and friends . . . that require a connection with our facility,” Isaac said. Residents are worried that they will be separated from loved ones as their healthcare needs change, she explained, citing meetings held last year where such concerns were highlighted. Chrissy Bergen, 31, has lived in the area for four years. She attended the meeting because of a concern that the neighbour- hood teens wouldn’t have a place to hang Anne Driediger, a resident at Bethany Manor, speaks with a Saskatoon, Sask., city out if the skateboard park gets taken away planner about the seniors complex expansion. 22 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Cover Story affected by the floods”. Food prices have significantly increased due to both flooding and the coming of Seeking higher ground Ramadan. It is expected that the price for green vegetables will double. These price MCC, Foodgrains Bank respond to Pakistan’s hikes will put vulnerable households in in- worst flooding in 80 years creased danger of hunger and malnutrition. Although MCC does not have an of- By Ross W. Muir Managing Editor fice or staff in Pakistan, it has a history of relief and development efforts there, says akistan’s worst floods in eight dec- than 1,000 kilometres long. Joe Manickam, director of MCC programs Pades have killed more than 1,600 “The floods have destroyed homes, farms, in Asia. Most recently, following the 2005 people and disrupted the lives of more factories and the livelihoods of millions of earthquake, MCC supported a large relief than 14 million—about 8 percent of the people,” says Willie Reimer, director of the and housing reconstruction project imple- population. With hundreds of thousands Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) mented by Church World Service-Pakistan/ of homes already destroyed in what the Food, Disaster and Material Resources pro- Afghanistan. “This is a major disaster of National Management Authority is call- gram. “Many people have lost everything enormous magnitude and we want to walk ing “the worst disaster in Pakistan’s his- and are in desperate need of assistance.” alongside the people of Pakistan during this tory,” people there are in immediate need According to Jim Cornelius, executive time of great devastation,” says Manickam. of basic necessities. About two million director of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, In partnership with members of the people are homeless and there are fears that a coalition of 15 church-based agencies, Foodgrains Bank, MCC is supporting pro- outbreaks of water-borne diseases such as “Agricultural and crop lands have been se- jects undertaken by two member agen- cholera could create a health crisis. verely damaged as a result of flooding, par- cies—Christian Reformed World Relief The floods, which began in late July ticularly in Punjab Province, where much Committee and Presbyterian World Service after heavy monsoon rain deluged the up- of the country’s grain is grown. This dam- and Development—to distribute food kits. per reaches of the Indus River basin, have age will negatively impact food security MCC is contributing $20,000 towards ploughed a swathe of destruction more in the area, especially for families directly the distribution of food kits to 11,000 vul- nerable households in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, some Term Deposit Special of the worst-affected areas. For its part, .30%* the Foodgrains Bank, with funding from 60 month term the Canadian International Development 3*Rate subject to change Agency, is responding with $2 million in food aid—rice, lentils, flour, oil, sugar, salt, tea and spices—towards this effort. MCC is also sending a container of 2,000 relief kits to support the emergency response efforts undertaken by Christian Reformed World Relief Committee. In partnership with members of Canadian Churches in Action, a coalition of 10 church-based development agencies, Pick MCC is contributing $2,000 for the pur- chase of tents. This is part of the coalition’s investments matching funds towards a $68,000-project supported by the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation. that bear fruit “Working in partnerships with church agencies allows us to combine our gifts, con- local | secure | trusted tacts and resources as we respond to this serious humanitarian crisis,” says Reimer. l Your Values Your Credit Union From reports by Gladys Terichow, MCC, www.mscu.com | 1.888.672.6728 and Heather Plett, Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 23

doesn’t come from the president, nor from Displaced Colombian community a political process alone. It starts here,” he said, pointing at his chest. “As a Christian, may get compensation for losses I am required to forgive. I know, too, that forgiveness doesn’t only affect the forgiven; By Torin Thomas Schaafsma Mennonite Central Committee Release it’s just as transformative for the one who María la Baja, Colombia forgives.” He ended by declaring his forgiveness, hugging those responsible for his displace- en years ago, a Colombian paramil- seized from paramilitary groups. ment, and giving them Bibles. People lis- Titary group violently forced the people The reparations are the first for survivors tening in Mampuján Nuevo reacted to his of Mampuján Viejo from their homes. In of paramilitary violence in the armed con- words with spirited applause. June of this year, the Justice and Peace flict that has plagued Colombia for more Whether or not there is enough Court of the Superior Tribunal of Bogotá, than 50 years. Thousands of people have money for reparations for all victims of Colombia’s capital, ruled that the com- died and millions have been left homeless the violence is a concern. The National munity must be compensated. as government forces, paramilitary groups Reparations Fund contains only $17.5 mil- From a vocational high school and and guerrillas vie for power and territory. lion. The settlement offered to survivors of health centre to a sewer system and com- To the people of Mampuján Nuevo, re- Mampuján Viejo will consume about 60 munity truck, the court ordered various ceiving reparations is important. Perhaps percent of that money although they repre- levels of government to strengthen the equally important was the opportunity to sent less than 1 percent of the paramilitary infrastructure of Mampuján Nuevo, the speak to the leaders of the paramilitary victims in Colombia. site where about half the displaced resi- group at the reparations hearing. Since 2007, Mennonite Central dents of Mampuján Viejo have resettled. Alexander Villarreal Pulido, a Mampuján Committee has been working with this dis- The court also allotted $9,000 compen- Nuevo community member and church placed community, supporting it through sation per person, with a $64,000 cap per leader, spoke of the sickness of war and trauma healing and advocacy. l family, an amount that is being appealed as retaliation in Colombia, and the need to too low. The compensation is to come from work, not just politically but on a personal a fund created with money and property level, to break out of that cycle. “Peace ΛΛBriefly noted Photo by Dave Rogalsky Not a crime to seek asylum: MCC It is extremely regrettable that the Tamil refugee claimants who arrived in Canada in early August by boat ar- rived under such a cloud of suspicion, says a Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) spokesperson. “It is not a crime to seek asylum and no one is ineligible until their refugee claim has been as- sessed and denied,” says Ed Wiebe, MCC Canada’s refugee assistance co- ordinator. The 490 Tamil refugee claim- ants are in compliance of Canadian and international refugee laws, Wiebe says. Canada’s refugee laws, he explains, are Visibly weak, Jim Reimer, seated, distinguished professor emeritus of Conrad designed to examine each claim on an Grebel University College, Waterloo, Ont., used his energy for two of his loves: individual basis and address issues of gospel quartet singing and theological education. Billed as Five on the Floor’s criminality and security. “A boatload of 500 refugee claimants does not over- final concert, the Church Theatre in St. Jacobs, Ont., was sold out on Aug. 26. whelm the system,” he says, adding, The quartet of Reimer, Henry Schmidt, Ron Harder and Bob Janzen sang through “Our Canadian system is adequate to many of their favourites from their two CDs. Reimer, 68, passed away at his deal fairly with these claims.” home two days after the concert. A full obituary follows in the next edition. —MCC Release 24 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

God at work in Us Canadian environmental advocates profiled

Sustainable communities mining town in northern Manitoba called because it is not only driven to maximize require long-term planning Snow Lake. For the first time the local cit- short-term profits. The public interest is David Neufeld of Winnipeg, Man., has izens are engaged in a discussion of their much broader than that. I have served a long history with both Mennonite and future and also bringing together con- governments of all political stripes, and secular efforts to address environmental siderations of infrastructure, housing and I don’t always agree with their values and issues. He has served on the Creation environment in one process. aspirations. But as long as I can do my job Care Council of the Mennonite Creation with a clear conscience, I will continue to Care Network (MCCN) since its incep- Martin: Name some challenges and high- try and contribute in this way. We need tion. He was also part of the Mennonite lights from your position. caring and faithful stewards in every sec- church’s Environmental Task Force that Neufeld: Short-term thinking is a chronic tor: in government, the private sector and existed from1991 through 2001, and as- problem we encounter with some local the non-profit sector. sisted with the ad hoc committee that de- councils and landowners. Many feel they Meanwhile, there have been ample op- signed MCCN. On the job as a community should have the right to subdivide their portunities to reflect on creation care from planner, he champions long-term think- land and sell it for whatever purpose some- a faith perspective. I minored in religious ing. Heidi Martin conducted one is willing to use it for. The studies at university, got involved in help- the interview for the MCCN true cost of development is ing Mennonite Central Committee Canada newsletter. often underestimated. It also adopt its first policy on environmental is difficult to quantify some stewardship, did workshops at church con- Martin: Describe your job of these costs. For example, ferences, and so forth, so there was little responsibilities as the director the impact of approving too gap between my personal beliefs and my of community planning for the much development around work orientation. government of Manitoba. small lakes—or allowing Neufeld: I have worked for Neufeld scattered rural subdivisions— Martin: Looking ahead, do you have par- the government in the area often only becomes apparent ticular goals in the area of creation care of land and water policy for 25 years. At many years after they are approved. At that that you would like to accomplish at work present, I manage regional offices across point it is too late or extremely costly to or in your home life? Manitoba that provide advisory and tech- remedy the situation. Neufeld: I am conscious of the need to nical services to cities, towns and rural mu- fight cynicism. When you have worked as nicipalities. Our job is to help communities Martin: How does your work integrate long as I have in a government setting, one put together long-range plans for manag- faith and your personal interest in creation can get discouraged or simply give in to the ing growth [housing, industry, commer- care? many barriers and difficulties of achieving cial, recreational, institutional]. Neufeld: I went to university to study the good policy. environment because of an abiding inter- Martin: How has your work made a dif- est in how we can motivate society and In a follow-up e-mail, Neufeld notes ference in Manitoba or in the lives of rural individuals to relate to, and interact with, that congregations can expect to receive a community members? the ecosystems of which they are a part in poster from Mennonite Church Canada in Neufeld: We encourage communities to non-destructive ways. October supporting the MCCN’s Shades take a more sustainable approach to land I do not work for a faith-based organ- of Green Campaign (mennocreationcare. use planning, and to realize that if it is not ization. Separation of church and state is org), saying, “We want to see 40 congrega- planned properly it will cost everyone, in a fact of life, and probably a good thing. tions across Canada share what they have terms of impacts on the environment as Having said that, one of my goals in high been doing to be a little greener in their well as social and economic costs. school was to work for the government local context to care for God’s creation.”

Martin: Are there projects that were par- [T]here have been ample opportunities to reflect ticularly successful? Neufeld: We have a pilot project in a small on creation care from a faith perspective. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 25

Pursuing tough questions in Kenya to Kenya have taught a gospel focused pri- have only one thing to say: We repent.” How do you get people marily on an otherworldly salvation, and Care of Creation Kenya has also ad- to care about the en- a theology that respects creation is not a dressed deforestation by developing a tree vironment? How do you given. nursery with the largest collection of in- get them to change their Care of Creation Kenya is one group digenous species in the country. behaviour? How do you that has impressed Moyer. Its purpose is Moyer is returning to Kenya this month change a society? to bring the message of environmental to spend time with two other groups: These are the kinds of stewardship to church leaders and it hosts Arocha Kenya and the development arm questions that intrigue Moyer workshops for them. At a recent workshop of the Quaker Mission. l Joanne Moyer, who has for Presbyterian clergy, Moyer reports that served on the MCCN Creation Care participants began by saying they didn’t Reprinted from July 2010 MCCN Council since its inception. Moyer lives know why they were there. At the end, a newsletter. in Winnipeg, and is currently a Ph.D. representative came forward and said, “We student in natural resource and environ- mental management at the University of Manitoba. “I get fired up thinking about what drives Discover South America! people to care and to act,” Moyer says. Brazil & Paraguay Tour – April 2011 “This touches on philosophy and religion Rio, Curitiba, Witmarsum, Iguazu Falls, and culture and psychology and education, Asuncion, Mennonite Colonies and more. and lots of other things as well.” Moyer’s long-term goal is to teach in an Peru & Paraguay Tour – Sept./Oct. 2011 academic setting. She says she explored Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Asuncion, Mennonite Colonies, Iguazu Falls working for a variety of non-profit organi- zations on environmental issues, but found Contact Rudolf Duerksen at (204) 415-6836 that most of these jobs involved organiz- [email protected] ing, while she enjoyed reading, writing and www.southwaytours.com thinking about environmental issues. “I hope I can help practical-minded people think about things that will be helpful to them in their work,” Moyer says. Currently, Moyer is directing her atten- tion towards Kenya, where she is research- ing faith-based environmental organiza- tions for her dissertation. Her work is part Sensing Peace of a project that assesses how people who What does peace smell, taste, feel, sound or look like? participate in environmental assessment Suzana E. Yoder encourages children ages 4 to 7 to find out learn from the process and apply their in their everyday moments—laughing, cooking, gardening, learning to other settings. Kenya had a par- singing or sharing ice cream. ticular draw for Moyer because her family Paper. 32 pages. $13.99 USD/$16.00 CAD. lived in East Africa for two years when she www.mpn.net/sensingpeace was a child. Moyer’s first impressions are that the ways Africans understand their churches Let the Children Come are very different from the ways many Preparing Faith Communities to End Child Abuse and Neglect westerners perceive churches. “In coun- Are children safe at your church? What can you do if you tries like Kenya, where social institutions suspect a child is being abused? In the context of the Bible aren’t strong and political institutions are and faith, Jeanette Harder shows how churches can address often corrupt, the church is the only organ- child abuse and neglect. ization that people trust,” she observes. Paper. 160 pages. $12.99 USD/$14.99 CAD. Religious slogans are everywhere and www.mpn.net/letthechildrencome churches are highly respected. When church leaders tell the community to think 800-245-7894 (USA) • 800-631-6535 (Canada) about, or act on, a particular problem, they Herald Press is the book imprint of Mennonite Publishing Network. will. On the other hand, many missionaries 26 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Artbeat Book Review Not a forecast of unseen things Apocalypse and Allegiance: Worship, Politics, and Devotion in the Book of Revelation. J. Nelson Kraybill, Brazos Press, Grand Rapids Mich., 2010. Reviewed by Dave Rogalsky

n his new book, Nelson Zechariah, Mark 13, and other non-biblical America live at relative ease in the heart of IKraybill, most recently materials such as those found at Qumran empire, it may be difficult for us to identify president of Associated along the Dead Sea in Palestine. Revelation with the countercultural nature of worship M e n n o n i t e B i b l i c a l was written to guide people through the in Revelation. We are tempted to the di- Seminary, Elkhart Ind., world in which first-century Christians version of using Revelation as a horoscope does not follow the Book found themselves, according to Kraybill. for predicting the future, rather than as a of Revelation in a linear “Rather than starting with the expecta- handbook for radical Christian living in the fashion, something that tion that Revelation will forecast events of present. Believers in the two-thirds world will be confusing for some. But it allows our time, we should seek to understand who deal daily with poverty or violence, him to work on themes like emperor wor- the life setting of John and the believers to however, may help us grasp the function ship, the returning Nero myth, and the pa- whom he addressed his book,” he writes. of worship among suffering people.” tronage system of client and patron. “With that background, we then can listen In a brief response to the divine violence Kraybill works from the premise that the for what the Spirit is saying to the churches in this last book of the Bible, he tries to book was intelligible to the churches that about faithfulness to Jesus Christ today.” understand how oppressed people feel received it in the first century AD, and that Kraybill constantly makes this crossover, about their oppressors. the icons, indexes and symbols in the book showing how the works of John’s vision Each chapter has recommended bib- made sense to them. Using semiotic theory would have been received in the churches, lical readings and reflection questions, as (the study of signs and symbols) “as articu- as John encouraged them to resist giving in well as a story, mostly of modern people lated by American philosopher Charles to emperor worship, even though mem- who are giving their full allegiance to Jesus Sanders Pierce,” Kraybill describes how bership in the guilds who controlled the Christ in many different ways. It is a use- the many seemingly secret and mysterious economy often required it. ful study guide, full of illustrations and passages of the book would have helped Instead, the heavenly worship which diagrams that help the reader understand the early Christians to navigate their lives, takes up much of Revelation pointed them the semiotic world of Revelation and think mostly in Asia Minor, that was part of the to their true allegiance: Jesus Christ. Having about their allegiances. l Roman Empire. made this point clearly and repeatedly, just Revelation fits into the apocalyptic— as Revelation did to its first readers, Kraybill Dave Rogalsky is the Eastern Canada cor- “lifting the veil”—tradition of Daniel, writes, “Because many Christians in North respondent for Canadian Mennonite.

On June 13, Conrad Grebel University College, Waterloo, Ont., hosted a reception to thank the family of the late artist Peter Goetz for a donation of 16 of his paintings to add to Grebel’s collection of Goetz works. Pictured from left to right: Grebel president Henry Paetkau thanks Goetz’s children, Jean Hoover and Peter Goetz Jr., for the donation. In his remarks, Paetkau quoted Goetz, who died in 2007, “ ‘What is bleak to some people is beautiful and paintable to me.’ ” Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 27

Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery photo

Swami Divyanand, right, a revered Hindu spiritual leader from India, visited the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery this summer, where he viewed the current “In the Spirit of Humanity” exhibit, which includes works by gallery curator Ray Dirks, left, who created the multiple portraits of Gandhi (pic- tured), Hindu artist Manju Lodha and Muslim artist Isam Aboud. The swami also gave a talk to about 40 Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians of South Asian descent. Over the summer, a group of at-risk Muslim children from Afghanistan and Pakistan met weekly at the gal- lery, where Dirks gave them painting lessons and began building relation- ships with the children and their parents and guardians.

our redesigned website is now live. check it out at www.canadianmennonite.org 28 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Yellow Page Business Directory Consulting Insurance Roth Nowak INSURANCE BROKERS 119 University Avenue East Waterloo, Ontario N2J 2W1 Telephone: (800) 576-7166 E-mail: [email protected] Education Resources www.rothnowak.com Mennonite & BIC Resource Centre Auto, Home & Business 519-745-8458 x225 www.mbicresources.org Insurance Dennis Roth u Ed Nowak Dennis Roth • Ed Nowak Financial Services Serving the Mennonite community throughoutServing the Ontario. Mennonite Community throughout Ontario

Representing

Listen. Understand. Plan. Duane Eby, MBA, CFP, CLU Financial Advisor

410 Conestogo Road, Unit 208, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 4E2 tel 519.725.2006 fax 519.725.2003 email [email protected]

Gerber Financial Services, Waterloo, ON 519-772-5867 • [email protected] Legal Services Guaranteed Investments & Life Insurance Russel Snyder-Penner Sound Advice, Excellent Products, Peace of Mind B.A., LL.B., M.A. Trademark Agent Corporate/Commercial Law John Thiessen, BA, BTh, CFP Charities/Non-profits Tel: 1.866.324.9574 Wills/Trusts, Real Estate [email protected] S 675 Queen255 King St. St. S. N. Suite Suite 300100 Kitchener, ON N2M 1A1 Investment 519.725.2500 Planning Counsel TM (f) 519.725.2525 IPC INVESTMENT CORPORATION [email protected]

Insurance Provided by IPC Estate Services Inc. Real Estate

Your Values, Your Credit Union Creating and Sustaining Aylmer 519.773.9559 1.877.773.6728 W H O L E N E S S Elmira 519.669.1529 1.800.265.1994 Kitchener 519.576.7220 1.800.565.6801 Leamington 519.326.8601 1.888.285.5501 MAX Canada Insurance Company Milverton 519.595.8796 1.800.952.2217 is committed to serving the Anabaptist community with Mount Forest 519.509.6728 1.888.509.6728 INSURANCE protection and MUTUAL AID care. New Hamburg 519.662.3550 1.800.567.4047 St.Catharines 905.646.9223 1.866.405.8590 HOME • FARM • CHURCH • BUSINESS Waterloo 519.746.1770 1.800.265.4513 MUTUAL AID MINISTRIES 877-770-7729 • www.maxcanada.org %$-5.$02)%30H$ Products available in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario & Saskatchewan 0RESIDENT"ROKEROF2ECORD ACCOUNTS • LOANS • MORTGAGES ONLINE BANKING • FINANCIAL PLANNING Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 29

Retreat/Accommodations News Update Check out NEWS UPDATE, the newest feature on Canadian Mennonite’s website: www.canadianmennonite.org. It highlights important breaking calendar events of the week across the provinces, significant personnel changes and other happenings that are of significance to you, our readers. ΛΛCalendar contact [email protected]. Church. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (21 and British Columbia p.m. A fundraiser for the Memorial : Fall seniors retreat at Hidden 22), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (23). For more to the Victims of Totalitarian Sept. 27 Sept. 23-Oct. 7: MC Canada IMPACT Acres Mennonite Camp. Theme: “The information, call 905-627-4132. Communism to be built in Ottawa as hosted by MC B.C. churches. role of congregations in the ministry of : Women of Mennonite a commemoration of the fall of the Oct. 23 Sept. 25: MCC Fall Fair in Prince our seniors.” Speakers: Gloria Dirks and Church Eastern Canada Enrichment Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold George. Nancy Mann. For more information, Day, from 10:15 a.m. to 3 p.m., at War. Keynote speaker Peter Letkemann Oct. 2: LifeBridge Ministries call 519-625-8602. Bethany Mennonite Church, Virgil, will present stories of Mennonites from Fundraising Concert at Level Ground : Christian/Veronica Ont. Theme: H“ aiti: Building in the former Soviet Union. Oct. 17 Mennonite Church. Steinman(n) reunion, at Shakespeare hope.” Speakers: Donna Thiessen Sept. 23: Annual palliative care Oct. 2-3: ThanksgivingV espers Optimist Hall; potluck at 1 p.m. and Leah Reesor. Bring your own conference offers a public lecture by with Abendmusik Choir at 8 p.m. at Refreshments provided, but bring lunch; beverages provided. For more Dr. Jose Pereira on “Euthanasia and Emmanuel Free Reformed Church, your own plates, cutlery and cups. information, call Florence Jantzi at palliative care: Don’t confuse the two”; Abbotsford (2) and Knox United Memorabilia welcome. 519-669-4356. at Victoria Inn, Winnipeg, at 7 p.m. Church, Vancouver (3). Donations to : Ten ThousandV illages : Pax Christi Chorale presents For more information or tickets, call Oct. 21-24 Oct. 24 Menno Simons Centre. Fair trade sale at Hamilton Mennonite “Fauré Requium & S.S. Wesley Oct. 4-6: Pastor/Spouse Retreat at Andrea Firth at 204-889-8525 ext. 225. Camp Squeah. Sept. 24-25: Brandon and area MCC Oct. 15-17: MC B.C. Women’s Retreat Relief Sale at the Keystone Centre. UpComing at Camp Squeah. Featured topic: Oct. 2: Westgate Mennonite Collegiate ΛΛ Women’s health issues with a focus on fundraising cyclathon. MEDA promotes ‘unleashing breast cancer. Speaker: Feather Janz, Oct. 2: Coffeehouse fundraiser entrepreneurship’ to alleviate poverty a two-time breast cancer survivor. for InterMennonite Chaplaincy Concert by Lisa Adrianne. Association at Fort Garry EMC Church, In a post-economic-crisis world there is a great need for Winnipeg, at 7:30 p.m. Featured artists unleashing entrepreneurship, hence the theme for this Saskatchewan TBA. year’s Mennonite Economic Development Associates Oct. 15-17: MC Manitoba youth (MEDA) Business as a Calling convention, Unleashing Oct. 15-16: Saskatchewan Women in sponsor workshop and worship Entrepreneurship, Nov. 4-7, in Calgary, Alta. Who better to Mission fall retreat at Shekinah. Theme: event, “For the Love of God,” at Camp speak about the power of business to alleviate poverty than Worshipping God using our senses. Assiniboia. Special guest: Bob Marsch. Oct. 22: Pastors’ gathering. Oct. 15-17: Manitoba Mennonite and featured speaker Frank O’Dea, who overcame incredible ad- Oct. 23: Equipping Day, Osler Brethren Marriage Encounter weekend, versity to found Canada’s famous Second Cup coffee fran- Mennonite Church. in Winnipeg. For more information, chise, now a chain of 70 stores across the country? Unleashing visit marriageencounter.org. To apply, Entrepreneurship will also feature David Miller, director of the Manitoba call Peter and Rose Dick at 204-757- Princeton University Faith & Work Initiative, on “Succeeding Until Sept. 18: “In the Spirit of 4705 or e-mail [email protected]. without selling your soul,” pastor Jane Hoober Peifer on Humanity” art exhibit at Mennonite “Unleashing the Spirit of God in the life of the entrepreneur,” Heritage Centre Gallery, Winnipeg; Ontario MEDA president Allan Sauder with his year-in-review report, featuring the art of Ray Dirks, gallery Sept. 11: Annual Corn Festival and a festive evening of Russian Mennonite food, Ukrainian curator, Manju Lodha, Isam Aboud, at Wanner Mennonite Church, music, personal stories and highlights of MEDA’s Ukraine and M.K. Sharma of Jaipur, India. For Cambridge; starts at 5:30 p.m. Meal program. With a program of 30 seminars, participants—from more information, e-mail rdirks@ includes local corn, sausage/hot dog, entrepreneurs and professionals, to lay people and pastors— mennonitechurch.ca. beverage and dessert. Followed by a can hear reports on the impact of MEDA’s work in several Sept. 19: Voices Within Walls, a campfire. countries, as well as presentations on a diverse mix of topics. play featuring stories of prisoners Sept. 12: Reunion for descendants of conscience against communist For more information, or to register, call 1-800-665-7026 or of George Albrecht at the KW visit BusinessAsACalling.org. oppression around the world, at Khaki Club, Wellesley, at 1 p.m. For —Mennonite Economic Development Associates Release Gas Station Theatre, Winnipeg, at 6 information call 519-885-0266 or 30 Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010

Anniversary” with guest conductor To ensure timely publication of Employment Opportunities Stéphane Potvin at Grace Church-on- upcoming events, please send the-Hill, Toronto at 3 p.m. Calendar announcements eight LEAD PASTOR weeks in advance of the event date by e-mail to calendar@ Mount Royal Mennonite Church, Saskatoon, Sask., is inviting applications for a full-time Lead Pastor starting fall 2010 to canadianmennonite.org. work in a pastoral team setting with an Associate Pastor for Youth and a Hispanic Pastor. We seek a Lead Pastor who has a joyful desire to preach, teach and provide spiritual counsel and mentorship. MRMC is made up of varied age groups, UpComing occupations and cultural backgrounds set in a growing city. ΛΛ We are an Anabaptist congregation following the Confession Round-the-world trip chronicled in art of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective with a desire to serve and grow. Congregational information is available through MC WINNIPEG, MAN.—The Saskatchewan, Area Church Minister: [email protected]. Inquiries can be forwarded to Jerry Buhler at MC Saskatchewan or Mary- “275 Days” exhibition by Lou Dyck, MRMC Pastoral Search Committee: [email protected]. Reymond Pagé opens at the Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery on Sept. 24. In 2007, Pagé, a Winnipeg artist, and HALF-TIME PASTOR his partner, Laura Peters, Kingsfield is searching out a half-time Pastor to join our team pulled their sons from school to be on mission with the church in the community of Clinton, and headed out on an around Ont. This position is to provide leadership of pastoral and mission-shaped integrity and direction of Kingsfield-Clinton the world journey. In the art- and to share unique leadership qualities with Kingsfield as a ist’s words: “275 Days—the whole. Kingsfield-Clinton is a home-based church established exhibit—was inspired by 275 Pagé almost 3 years ago. The applicant should have a dynamic, vibrant and mature personal relationship with God through days of backpacking around Jesus Christ and have demonstrated gifts in leadership, areas the world with my family in 2007 and 2008. This collection of related to a church plant setting (i.e. developing a missional drawings, paintings and photographs is an effort to relate that presence in the culture), teaching, visioning and disciple-making. time of wonder, exploring places overrun by time, witnessing Please apply before Monday, Oct. 4, 2010. For a full job hope and determination in faces young and old, and recogniz- description, or to submit your resume, please contact: Lead Pastor, Tim Doherty, Kingsfield, 37818 Zurich-Hensall Rd., ing the beauty in that which is often overlooked or covered up. Zurich, ON N0M 2T0, or by e-mail: [email protected]. . . . Visiting places with such remarkably different daily routines www.kingsfieldcommon.ca awoke the child within me and helped me to appreciate all that I saw.” The exhibition by Pagé, a member of Fort Garry Mennonite Church, Winnipeg, will run until Nov. 13. —Mennonite Heritage Centre Gallery Release

ΛΛClassifieds Travel Opportunities EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GREENWOOD COURT TRAVEL: Visit Europe the Advertising Tri-County Mennonite Homes, a not-for-profit service agency, Mennonite Way! See website Information has provided leadership in service to seniors and development- for the 2011 Hotel and Youth ally disabled individuals for over 35 years. Our organization is Hostel Heritage Tours, includ- seeking a dynamic Executive Director to oversee and manage ing Holland, Germany, Poland, Contact Canadian the Greenwood Court division, which provides healthcare and France and Switzerland. www. Mennonite residential services to seniors in Stratford, Ont. mennoniteheritagetours.eu. Ad Representative Candidates should have: • A three-year post-secondary degree or a two-year Volunteers Sought Lisa Metzger post-secondary diploma in health or social services Volunteer couple or single 1-800-378-2524 x.224 • Five years’ relevant management experience person needed at Menno-Hof • Previous experience in long-term care in 2011. Duties include hosting 519-664-2780 • An approved Administrators’ Certification or be enrolled visitors while sharing our story. advert@ in the course Length of stay is negotiable Please e-mail your resume by Sept. 17, 2010, to employment@ with a minimum of one month. canadianmennonite.org tcmhomes.com or mail to TCMH Employment, 200 Boullee St., Completely furnished apart- New Hamburg, ON N3A 2K4. Phone: (519)662-2718. ment. For more information, contact Jerry Beasley, PO Box We thank all applicants however, only those selected for an 701, Shipshewana, IN 46565. interview will be contacted. Phone: 260-768-4117. E-mail: For more information please visit www.tcmhomes.com. [email protected]. Canadian Mennonite September 6, 2010 31

PASTOR Conrad Grebel Tofield Mennonite Church is searching for a pastor who is University College fearless and passionate for God, and is gifted in the areas of community outreach, preaching and teaching. We are an Anabaptist congregation of about 70 members in a growing History Faculty town of about 2,000 people, with many acreage and farm Sixteenth Century Anabaptism and Mennonite History families living in the surrounding area. Edmonton is only about Conrad Grebel University College 45 km northwest of us. Blessed with a newer sanctuary and at the University of Waterloo fellowship hall, we look forward to working together with a pastor who has an outgoing personality and is eager to help Conrad Grebel University College invites applications for a full-time our church bring Jesus to our community. The opportunity is continuing contract faculty position in undergraduate History and great. Is God calling you? graduate Theological Studies at the University of Waterloo, with a Please direct resumes to: teaching and research specialty in sixteenth century Anabaptism B. Goerzen, Search Contact, Box 443, Tofield, AB T0B 4J0 and Mennonite History. The appointment will begin July 1, 2011 or e-mail: [email protected] at either the Assistant or Associate Professor level. The College will begin reviewing applications on November 15, 2010. The College is committed to employment equity. Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. For further information about the position, qualifications, and application procedures please visit: Conrad Grebel University College

Faculty Search PRESIDENT FOR CONRAD GREBEL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE Conrad Grebel University College 140 Westmount Rd. N, Waterloo, ON The Board of Governors of Conrad Grebel University College invites N2L 3G6 applications and/or nominations for the position of President, expected [email protected] to be effective July 1, 2011. 519-885-0220 x24265 Conrad Grebel University College is a liberal arts college founded by http://grebel.uwaterloo.ca/contact/history_search.shtml the Mennonite Church, affiliated with the University of Waterloo, and grounded by its Christian identity and Anabaptist/Mennonite heritage. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated ability for engaging various communities in fostering: • the College values and mission — to seek wisdom, nurture faith, and pursue justice and peace in service to church and society; • its programs, which embrace undergraduate courses in Arts including the University of Waterloo Music and Peace & Conflict Rooted in faith, Tri-County Mennonite Homes (TCMH) Studies programs, a graduate Theological Studies program, and provides leadership in service to seniors and developmentally an exceptional undergraduate residence and student life program. disabled individuals by dedicated staff and volunteers. The resources of the College Library and Archives support these programs. In light of a pending retirement, the Board of Directors is seeking to fill the role of: The College is committed to employment equity. Preference will be given to candidates who stand within the Anabaptist/Mennonite CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER tradition and have earned a doctorate. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is a dynamic, values-based, All inquiries will be kept in strict confidence. Applications and resumes visionary person who will lead and direct TCMH, including its should be received by November 1, 2010 and be addressed to: three divisions, and provide advice and support to the Board of Directors. We are looking for a well-rounded person with an The Chair aptitude for business, vision for the future, an understanding Presidential Search Committee of the past, a well-grounded faith, a love for people and the Conrad Grebel University College ability to leverage the abilities of the people around him/her 140 Westmount Road N. to achieve the goals of the organization. Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G6, CANADA Or sent by e-mail to: [email protected] If you have: Profile and other details are found at • Post-secondary education, preferably in Business http://www.grebel.uwaterloo.ca/contact/presidential_ Administration, with 10+ years of experience as a search.shtml CEO/Senior Leader in the not-for-profit sector • Familiarity with the provincial funding mechanisms and Acts that relate to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC), Ministry of Community and Upcoming Advertising Dates Social Services (MCSS), Ministry of Labour (MOL) and the Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) • Proven ability to lead and motivate individuals and teams Issue Date Ads Due to produce quality service within tight time frames and Oct. 4 Sept. 21 manage multiple projects Focus on Education Please respond with a cover letter and resume by September 17, 2010 to Glenn Zehr, Board Chair at [email protected]. Oct. 18 oct. 5 www.tcmhomes.com Focus on Travel set world record set Manitoba farmers

On Aug. 7, 200 combines worked together to harvest a crop on a 122-hectare field south of Winkler, Man., beating the previous Guinness world record of 175 combines harvesting simultaneously on a single field. Around 15,000 people crowded to watch as an adjudicator from Guinness World Records made the record official five minutes after the combines began to roll. Less than seven minutes later, the swaths were gone and the field was bare. The record-setting harvest was a fundraiser for the seven-year-old Children’s Camps International, which runs Christian camps in India, Kenya, Nepal, Cambodia, Belize, Fiji and Cuba; including the sale of the harvested wheat, the event has so far raised in excess of $100,000. Children’s camps International photos by Russ Dueck