www.TheMennonite.org February 17, 2009

8 Roadside Jesus 16 Communion questions 18 A biblical consideration for adoption 32 Damaged vets need healing

Page 12 GRACE AND TRUTH

God’s extravagant generosity

o you imagine God with a clenched hand or (7 with 22 zeroes). To think of it another way, an open hand? Is the God you worship a there are 10 times as many stars as all the grains D giver or a taker? of sand on all the world’s beaches and in all the For the past year I have been soaking in the world’s deserts. God of the open hand lavished spirit of God’s generosity. The God of the Bible is complexity and majesty in the creation of the uni- the God of the open hand. Psalm 145:16 says, God, verse and the earth. “you open your hand and satisfy the desires of Why such grandeur, such beauty, such intricacy every living thing” (TNIV). The Message transla- in God’s creation? God says, “I made it for you to tion is, “Generous to a fault, you lavish your favor enjoy, to contemplate, to fire your imagination and on all creatures.” Not only do we as humans expe- to saturate your soul.” In Genesis 2:16, the Lord rience God’s generosity, but all living things, completed the Garden of Eden and gave it to plants and animals, experience it. Adam. “Here it is. For you. You are free to eat of God lavished beauty, complexity and grandeur any tree of the garden. Enjoy.” One tree Adam and in creating the world. Consider flowers. In the fall Eve were not to eat from, but that’s another story. of 2007, Amanda, my wife, and I put in a perennial “Earth is drenched in God’s affectionate satis- Clarence Rempel is flower garden across the northeast corner of our faction” (Psalm 33:5 The Message). The description pastor of First backyard. We put in 70-some plants of a dozen of God’s generous, extravagant creation continues: Mennonite varieties, and this past summer I loved walking the “The skies were made by God’s command; he Church in backyard to gaze at what was blooming, from the breathed the word and the stars popped out. He Newton, Kan. perfectly shaped trumpets of Asiatic lilies to the scooped Sea into his jug, put Ocean in his keg” profuse blooms and bright colors of impatiens. We (Psalm 33:6-7 The Message). had lilies that bloom only a day and rose bushes We become what we honor and worship. As we covered with dozens of blooms. I am mesmerized behold God as extravagantly generous, our hearts by the intense colors and the abundant blooms. will bloom with greater generosity. Our churches Did you know that there are 600 varieties of will become baskets of generosity and beacons of asters and 25,000 varieties of orchids? Those are hope. My congregation has been known to talk just two of 270,000 species of flowers. Why so poor, as if God were tightfisted. “We can’t decide. many? What extravagance! What lavish, over- We can’t find people. We don’t have money. Or we whelming beauty! God of the open hand has have it, but people won’t give it.” poured out his blessing in creation. I dream that Mennonite Church USA will I am overwhelmed by the grandeur of God’s become a generous church, because God has been creation. A thousand stars in the sky would be outrageously generous with us. “We can make up plenty. I can only keep track of a half dozen or so our minds and make decisions. We can get things by name. We can actually see about 5,000 stars done. We have willing, talented people resources. with the naked eye. Surely that would be enough. We have substantial financial resources, and we But our galaxy has 400 billion stars. And there are will commit them to God’s mission. We have been now 10 billion galaxies within reach of our most blessed to be a blessing.” Start your next church powerful telescopes. There are 70 sextillion stars board or council meeting with this litany. TM

TheMennonite Vol. 12, No. 4, February 17, 2009 The Mennonite is the official publication of Mennonite Church USA. Our mission is to help readers glorify God, grow in faith and become agents of Editor: Everett J. Thomas Offices: healing and hope in the world. The Mennonite (ISSN 1522-7766) is normal- [email protected] 1700 S. Main St. ly published on the first and third Tuesdays of each month (except only one issue in August) by the board for The Mennonite, Inc. Periodical Associate editor: Gordon Houser Goshen, IN 46526-4794 postage paid at Goshen, IN 46526. Subscription rates for one year: $43.95 [email protected] phone: 800-790-2498 fax: 574-535-6050 to U.S. addresses and or $51.45 USD to Canadian addresses. Group rates Assistant Editor: Anna Groff available. Scripture references are from the New Revised Standard Version [email protected] 722 Main St., P.O. Box 347 unless otherwise noted. The views expressed in this publication do not Advertising, subscriptions: Rebecca Helmuth Newton, KS 67114 necessarily represent the official positions of Mennonite Church USA, [email protected] phone: 866-866-2872 The Mennonite, or the board for The Mennonite, Inc. Bookkeeper: Celina Romero fax: 316-283-0454 [email protected] Postmaster Editorial Assistant: Nora Miller 801 N. Negley Ave. Send form 3579 to: Design: Dee Birkey Pittsburgh, PA 15206 The Mennonite phone: 412 894 8705 1700 S. Main St. Web site: www.TheMennonite.org fax: 412-363-1216 Goshen, IN 46526

2 TheMennonite February 17,2009 CONTENTS

6

7 8 Roadside Jesus We encounter Jesus when we welcome strangers.—Isaac Villegas

12 Jesus trail Walking where Jesus walked helps put us in touch with his life and teachings.—David Landis

15 Friends in need Preventing homelessness before it starts—Jan Johnson 13 16 Communion questions Communion and mission can go together.—Eleanor Kreider

19 What do the church and schools want? Greg Boyd tells Mennonite leaders ‘Mennonite culture’ is not the treasure.—Anna Groff

20 Leaders say church planting on the rise, but ‘witness’ goal difficult to measure —Anna Groff

23 EMU helps Virginia Tech’s peace center

24 Man follows call to work with homeless 11 DEPARTMENTS

2 Grace and truth God’s extravagant generosity—Clarence Rempel

4 Readers say

6 News digest

18 Speaking out A biblical consideration for adoption—C. Richie

26 For the record

30 Mediaculture A YouTube presidency—Gordon Houser

32 Editorial Damaged vets need healing—Everett J. Thomas

Cover: Photo by David Landis of Anna Dintaman on the Jesus Trail.

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 3 READERS SAY

What about public schools? and not inclusive. What is missing is the most After reading the annual Mennonite education important quality of pastors (and all followers of issue (Jan. 20) of The Mennonite, I find myself Jesus), namely, that they follow Jesus. It is amaz- wishing for an article comparable to Laurie ing to me that a movement started by the first Oswald Robinson’s piece (“No Price Tag on Anabaptists so readily embraces institutional Priceless Anabaptist Education for the Young”) preservation as a worthy goal. This is especially that would read, “No Price Tag on Priceless Public painful because the radicals gave their lives, not to Education for the Young.” preserve institutions but to live out the call of The decision to send our boys to the local pub- Jesus as a gathered body of believers free from lic school was an intentional one, born out of many institutional constraint. It’s difficult to see how This publication discussions with friends around the campfire on welcomes your Mennonite Church USA can possibly live out the letters, either about our Mennonite Central Committee assignment in call of Jesus to break down barriers and build a our content or about southern Africa. What, we asked ourselves, would issues facing the new humanity rooted in Jesus when it seems pret- Mennonite Church it be like to move back home and integrate our- ty clear that drawing boundaries along ethnic USA. Please keep selves in a local community in the same way that your letters brief— Mennonite and institutional lines is in vogue. one or two para- we had immersed ourselves in cross-cultural set- —Michael Danner, Metamora, Ill. graphs—and about tings? What if we served on local school boards, one subject only. We reserve the right to sent our kids to the local school? What if we Appreciation for preseminary pastors edit for length and looked for the face of God in all the people in our clarity. Publication is The Jan. 20 editorial (“Seminaries as Seedbeds”) also subject to space new, adopted community? caught my attention. It reminds us of the major limitations. Send to As a graduate of a Mennonite high school, I am Letters@TheMenno- shift in the calling and equipping of our pastoral nite.org or mail to aware of the benefits of a Christian education. leadership. Although I enthusiastically support Readers Say, The While I have at times lamented the shortcomings Mennonite, 1700 S. these changes, I wish to express my appreciation Main St., Goshen, IN of a small, rural public school system and the to the pastors who served us in the preseminary 46526-4794. Please messiness of local politics, I have no regrets about include your name years. For the most part they were called out of and address. We will our decision to send our boys to public school and the pews of their home congregations, and there not print letters sent then off to Goshen (Ind.) College, where we see anonymously, they carried out their ministry. They had modest though we may with- them move with ease among different groups of library and training resources available to them. hold names at our people and where they find themselves challenged discretion.—Editors They preached sermons, served Communion, bap- in new ways in a college whose core values so tized the youth, married the betrothed, visited the closely mirror our desire for their faith develop- sick and buried the dead. Demands on their time ment.—Christine Nofsinger, Marcellus, Mich. and skills were high, while financial support was low. They were expected to be self-supporting. Seminaries as seedbeds They kept the Mennonite ship afloat through the I read with great interest the “Seminaries as turbulent waters of several world wars, a deep Seedbeds” editorial by Everett J. Thomas (Jan. 20). recession and the various gales of modernity. It sounds like another attempt to “circle the wag- Perhaps a fitting expression of our gratitude could ons” and invest our future by becoming exclusive come in the form of a publication in the style of Tom Brokaw’s The Greatest Generation.—Ross T. IN THIS ISSUE Bender, Goshen, Ind.

nlike our last two issues—the annual church school issue In defense of The Shack on Jan. 20 and the “national identity” issue on Feb. 3— Regarding Gordon Houser’s review of the book U this issue has no overriding theme. But as happens occa- The Shack (Mediaculture, Jan. 20): There are sionally in our work, a subject appears several times with little many ways to judge a book. One of them is its planning. In this case, the subject is homelessness. On page effectiveness in speaking to others. This book has 24, Lee Penner describes his work with homeless people in obviously done that as is witnessed to by the Harvey County, Kan. The editorial (page 32) calls for renewed responses it has received. I do not believe that attention to combat veterans increasing the ranks of the home- William Young’s purpose was to write “good fic- less. Jan Johnson (page 15) offers suggestions on how to pre- tion” but to find a way to share what God had done vent homelessness before it starts and cites a friend who says, for him with others. I experienced this book as “The church is the highway around Skid Row.” In the story on communicating a profound truth in a way that has page 8, Isaac Villegas describes his Wednesday noon meals been able to reach many people, including me. I with the homeless people who haunt his Sunday celebration of don’t believe he meant this story to be theological- Lord’s Table. —Editor ly correct but rather to help communicate the truth of where God is when evil happens to us and

4 TheMennonite February 17,2009 READERS SAY

others. This is a truth that many of us struggle to with church politics—for Sider to encourage understand in spite of having read the Bible. Christian Peacemaker Teams not to appear to —Margaret W. Gale, Tiskilwa, Ill. “promote … a homosexual/lesbian lifestyle,” I would encourage Sider and others not to use the Saddened by review of The Shack word “lifestyle” in that context. Using that term Gordon Houser’s column “The Shack: Simplistic, betrays an ignorance of the variety of sexual prac- Didactic, Wildly Popular” saddened me. I under- tices among gay and lesbian people—a variety as stand that Houser objects to the quality of the writ- broad as that among heterosexuals. ing. Perhaps the book’s purpose was to meet non- As with heterosexuals, gay and lesbian people’s believers where they are and introduce them to a sex lives include everything from celibate single- ONLINE POLL God with whom they may not be familiar. And per- ness to short-term hookups to lifelong monogamy. RESULTS haps God needed to use a method not approved of The myth of a “homosexual lifestyle” is a vicious by Houser in order to accomplish [God’s] goals. stereotype that, like most stereotypes, can come Regarding the What I heard from Houser in his comments was only from ignorance or malice. book The Shack: a great deal of arrogance. It sounded like he was As a CPT supporter, my preference would be (73 votes) complaining about God’s ways of working in the for CPT to go the other direction from Sider’s sug- I do not plan to world. I heard the following in the review: “Lord, if gestion and, as part of his recommended expan- read it (44%) you’re going to use a work of popular fiction to sion, put together an additional team focused on I read/am read- introduce people to you, at least use an author “getting in the way” of cruel and uncompassionate ing it (44%) who doesn’t break the rules of good fiction writing acts by American churches toward gay and lesbian I plan to read it by beginning the story with a discussion of the people.—John Zimmerman, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa (8%) weather. And while you’re at it, maybe you could Not sure (4%) pick an author with a clean record of pure The post office dog Christian living. Oh, and don’t let the author intro- Today I received my copy of The Mennonite along Check out the new duce any concepts not explicitly mentioned in the with an apology from the post office saying that it poll question at www. Bible because we don’t want to get people started had been damaged on its way to me. It looked like TheMennonite.org on the wrong foot with their theology.” my dog had gotten it and torn it to shreds. One But God didn’t follow Houser’s rules, and he whole corner was missing. My dog, Molly, imme- seems upset about that. When did we Christians diately tore the envelope in as many pieces as the start believing that it was OK to tell God how to do magazine. So, can I have another copy mailed to his job? If even one person comes to faith because me and hope the “post office dog” doesn’t shred of The Shack, then God has accomplished what he it?—Eunice Gautsche, Lexington, Ky. set out to do. And how ironic that the Bible, of which Houser speaks so highly, is full of stories of Editors note: This letter was one of a dozen com- God using unconventional ways of working in the plaints we received after our switch to a lighter world—ways that angered those who thought they paper for the January issues. We are also beginning knew what God should be doing and how he to hear from subscribers who never received one or should be doing it.—Janet Szabo, Kalispell, Mont. both of their January issues—probably because the back page with the address label was torn off. Opposes CPT policy change Therefore, we have abandoned efforts to use a Regarding Ron Sider’s letter in the Jan. 6 Readers lighter paper. If you did not receive either of the Say: While I understand the reasons—having to do January issues, please call 800-790-2498.

Pontius’ Puddle Joel Kauffmann

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 5 NEWS DIGEST

IN BRIEF Millions benefit from microcredit campaign Razia also helped her husband purchase a vehi- NEW YORK—More than 106 million of the world’s cle, allowing him to earn an extra 1,500 Afghanis poorest families received a microloan in 2007, sur- (equals $40) per day. Slowly their family is increas- passing a goal set 10 years earlier, according to a ing its income and rising above poverty. report by the Microcredit Summit Campaign, “I encourage others to get a loan, too,” she says, which Mennonite Economic Development “because the only way to help yourself and your Associates (MEDA) is part of. Microloans are family is to work. “Through MEDA, I have access used to help people living in extreme poverty start to the finest resources to help me reach my goals.” Mission Network —MEDA announces new or expand a range of tiny businesses. senior executive Razia is one MEDA client. She is just 30 years To her new post as old, but she’s already suffered through decades of MCC provides supplies to Gaza and more senior executive for war and strife. Razia lives in Kabul, Afghanistan, AKRON, Pa.—Mennonite Central Committee is advancement for where years of conflict have taken their toll on her providing relief to three areas around the world Mennonite Mission family. Earning a livelihood has been extremely suffering from war and natural disasters: Network, Paula difficult. Razia was a skilled tailor but struggled to Gaza: Mennonite Central Committee is prepar- Killough brings theo- ing to ship blankets and other relief supplies to the logical background, know how to turn those valuable skills into regular economic and com- income in order to feed her family. Gaza Strip despite Israeli restrictions on humani- munication experi- But everything changed when she heard about tarian aid to the war-torn region. Israel is prevent- ence and a commit- microfinance loans offered through MEDA. Razia ing most humanitarian aid from entering Gaza in ment to church lead- soon secured a loan and began building her own the aftermath of a 23-day war against Palestinian ership. Since January militants, according to Daryl Byler, an MCC 2008, Killough tailoring business. served as program “With the loan,” she says, “I have been able to regional representative for Jordan, Iran, Iraq and administrator for the forget my sorrows and start to prosper. I repaid Palestine. Byler is optimistic that MCC’s shipment U.S. ministries my loan on time and applied for a second loan.” of 3,910 blankets and 1,260 relief kits will be department of allowed into Gaza when it arrives this month. Mennonite Mission Honduras: MCC provided blankets, food and Network. In her new position, which be- kits in Honduras through a partner agency follow- gan in September ing devastating floods in October and November 2008, she leads the 2008. More than 313,000 people were affected by church relations,

Rebecca Helmuth Rebecca the destruction. Proyecto Aldea Global, an MCC development and partner, quickly responded by providing 4,000 marketing and com- munication depart- comforters, 7,900 cans of meat, 1,085 health kits ments. Killough dis- and 707 school kits from MCC. covered the Menno- Colombia: Mennonite Brethren churches in the nite church as a Choco region of Colombia provide alternative agri- young adult in cultural projects for families in the “Food not Denver and joined Arvada (Colo.) Coca” program. The program, funded by MCC, Mennonite Church in supports the efforts of more than 100 families. 1980, then attended Coca cultivation has changed the economy by Seattle Mennonite inflating local prices. Traditional crop prices do not Church before sustain farmer’s families. Coca, when processed beginning at Associated Menno- illegally, produces cocaine, which is a sure income. nite Biblical “There is definitely a temptation to grow coca, Seminary in Elkhart, especially in rural communities,” says Manuel Ind.—Mennonite Mosquera, pastor of the Istmina Mennonite Mission Network Brethren Church and coordinator of “Food not Immigration ‘solidarity pole’ planted at church Coca.” Additionally, people were forced to abandon Following a Sunday school series on immigration, their land in the early months of 2008 because of Francisco Berdejo (back) and the Ramirez family of North Goshen (Ind.) Mennonite Church touch a “solidar- fighting between illegal paramilitary groups in the ity pole.” The pole, inscribed with “welcoming the Choco province of Colombia. A large number of stranger” Bible verses in Spanish and English, was dedi- the displaced families were members of Menno- cated during a Jan. 25 worship service. Situated in a nite Brethren churches from the towns of Basuro largely Latino neighborhood, North Goshen planted and Baudó. MCC sent $7,500 to the Mennonite the solidarity pole as a visual symbol of its commitment to “the stranger among us.”—Rebecca Helmuth Brethren Church in Istmina to help them respond with emergency food provision.—MCC

6 TheMennonite February 17,2009 NEWS DIGEST

IN BRIEF Mennonite Men grants $35,000 to church NEWTON, Kan.—Mennonite Men sent Rochester (N.Y.) Area Mennonite Fellowship (RAMF) a $35,000 JoinHands church-building grant in January. Mennonite Men coordinator Jim Gingerich visited the congregation last September and symbolically presented the grant. RAMF organized gradually, first around 1980 as Longhurst is MPN a group that met Sunday afternoons. It began marketing director meeting Sunday mornings in the first of a series of John Longhurst will rented spaces in 1986. begin as director of

Sarah Harder Early on the congregation joined New York marketing and sales Mennonite Conference, and in 1992 it joined the for Mennonite Pub- General Conference Mennonite Church. The con- lishing Network May 1 and will be based in gregation has about 60 members. Winnipeg. Longhurst 17 photographers enter first photo contest Construction of the 3,800-square-foot building has more than 25 The first-ever photo contest sponsored by The Mennonite drew has been completed with much volunteer help. years experience in 17 photographers for the five categories available. Sarah Harder The property, once a farm, is RAMF’s first perma- communications and won the “Mennonite Church USA Members at Work, Service or nent home—a $500,000 project toward which the marketing for non- profit organizations Play” category with this shot of Eastern Mennonite University congregation and even former members have students on camels in the Sahara Desert in 2008. and educational insti- donated generously. tutions and currently The JoinHands church-building program enlists is director of commu- Lehman, veteran EMU education prof, dies members who commit themselves to contribute nications and market- HARRISONBURG, Va.—Esther K. Lehman, 85, a $100 twice each year to support new congrega- ing for Canadian retired longtime member of the education depart- Mennonite University tions. Members may be individuals or groups such in Winnipeg. ment faculty at Eastern Mennonite University, as Sunday school classes or men’s fellowships. —Mennonite Pub- Harrisonburg, died Jan. 30. Lehman, professor JoinHands has given about $1.5 million to more lishing Network emerita of education, joined the EMU faculty in than 50 congregations since 1984.—Gordon Houser 1951 and retired in 1982. She was a reading and Water by numbers language arts specialist in the education depart- • Global average gal- Miller lead conference minister for IN-MI lons of water used ment. Lehman took an assignment with Menno- GOSHEN, Ind.—Daniel Z. Miller began his role as each year to produce nite Central Committee, 1982-85, working at the Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference lead con- goods and services, Teacher Training College in Serowe, Botswana. ference minister on Jan. 26. His per capita: 328,366 She graduated from EMU in 1949 and received a appointment comes in the midst • Annual per capita master’s degree from George Peabody College, water use in the of a time of transition. United States: Nashville, Tenn., a master’s degree in Christian Leaders across the conference 655,939 education from Wheaton (Ill.) College and a doc- are working at understanding • Annual per capita torate in education from Syracuse (N.Y.) and engaging new ways of think- water use in China: University. Lehman was a member of Mt. Clinton ing and working as they follow 185,449 • Number of people Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg.—EMU God’s leading, prompted by a lis- Daniel Miller worldwide who do tening-redesign process that not have access to Icy challenge benefits Spruce Lake Retreat began four years ago. fresh water: 1.2 billion CANADENSIS, Pa.—This year’s “polar plunge” at Miller is the first person to serve in the new • Number of children the men’s retreat at Spruce Lake Retreat, position of lead conference minister. The transition who die each year for Canadensis, raised $10,000 to benefit Spruce Lake lack of access to clean team created the position last summer. water and adequate on Jan. 9. It all started with board chair Robert In the last 15 years, Miller has served eight sanitation: almost 2 Nice posing a dare. If the men would raise $1,000 congregations in northern Indiana as transitional million for Spruce Lake, executive director Mark Swartley pastor, walking them through conflict, visioning —Yes! magazine would do the “polar plunge”—diving into the icy and preparing for new pastoral leadership. water of Spruce Lake. Before long, the amount Timothy Burkholder has served as interim pledged tipped over $5,000. Director of develop- executive conference minister since Sherm ment Mark Fly, wilderness camp director Kent Kauffman completed his ministry with the confer- Kauffman, retreat center director Tim Hillegas ence in December 2007.—Indiana-Michigan and adult and family ministries director Eric Horst Mennonite Conference jumped in Jan. 9 with air temperatures in the 20s. —Spruce Lake Retreat —compiled by Anna Groff

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 7 We encounter Jesus when we welcome strangers.

ears flow freely this week. Fatback died a few days ago. Liver failure. Caroline gathers us into a circle around the plastic folding table. Hand in hand—some more filthy than others. Heads bowed and eyes closed. “Heavenly Father,” she prays, “your people are hurting.” She finishes with the Lord’s Prayer, and we all join in: “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.” Since I’m new to this circle, I follow the lead of the guy whose hand I just held. Sparky piles spaghetti on his plate and grabs a roll. This week a Presbyterian church provides our daily bread. As we sit around the table, I overhear bits and pieces of conversations: a broken rib, a robbery, chiggers, harassment from Chapel Hill police, Bulldog in the hospital, no more food stamps, hitching a ride to Montana. Noise from the speeding cars drowns out the words in between.

by Isaac Villegas

8 TheMennonite February 17,2009 The people who gather at Wednesday’s Open Table haunt my celebration of Sunday’s Lord’s Table. Photo suppliedPhoto

Every Wednesday at noon, Communion hap- Hebrews: “God is in the slums, in the cardboard The writer reads pens on the service road next to highway 15/501 boxes where the poor play house. God is in the Scripture at the between Durham and Chapel Hill, N.C. A few peo- silence of a mother who has infected her child Open Table gath- ering in Chapel ple drive up in cars as I did; the rest wander out with a virus that will end both their lives. God is in Hill, N.C. from the forests, where they live in tents. They call the cries heard under the rubble of war. God is in this time of fellowship “the open table.” Sparky, the debris of wasted opportunity and lives, and one of the regulars, calls it “God’s little flock.” God is with us if we are with them.” Sparky, Caroline and the others let me stop by When Hebrews tells us to fix our eyes and cen- and eat at their table. Every meal is an education. ter our lives on Jesus, we are destabilized. As we They’ve taken away my grand solutions for home- follow after Jesus, we give up control of our direc- lessness and instead have given me their names tion. We begin to lose ourselves in the wastelands, and faces and stories. Now when I sit at church on like those places Bono describes. The lure of Sundays, my mind conjures up their faces, and I Christ’s gracious presence invites us onto a wan- notice their absence. The people who gather at dering path of discipleship that leads into forgotten Wednesday’s Open Table haunt my celebration of places—the margins of highways and the wilder- Sunday’s Lord’s Table. ness of slums. As the title of Ernst Käsemann’s As I travel between these two tables, I can’t help landmark book on Hebrews puts it, we become but ask, What does our worship of Jesus Christ in The Wandering People of God. We are nomads who all his glory have to do with the humiliated and set up our tents where others don’t want to live. shamed? This tension runs through the heart of the We wander into relationships where we share bur- Epistle to the Hebrews. When I turn to those pages dens and hope to encounter the living presence of of Scripture, my images of glory and humiliation Jesus among the disfigured, disordered and are confounded and flow into one another. Hebrews disheveled. “Can we see Jesus?” The answer offers a description of Jesus that entangles glory depends on where we go and with whom we await and humiliation into a single knot that cannot be Christ’s presence. undone: Jesus is humiliated glory, glorified humilia- The nomadic vision of Hebrews adds a critical tion. Chapter 2 sets us on a wandering path to the edge to our talk about mission. Certain kinds of face of Christ: “We do see Jesus,” the author says in missional spirituality turn Jesus into a possession, verse 9. When we see him at the end of Hebrews, a thing we can own. We can put him in our pocket we find ourselves at the edge of town among the or tuck him away in our hearts for safekeeping. humiliated: “Let us then go to him outside the camp We treat Jesus as a deposit in our spiritual bank and bear the abuse he endured” (13:13). accounts, a fund we can draw from later, when we The text speaks of the crucified Jesus in the pres- need it, and lend to others if we feel generous. ent tense: “Let us then go to him.” Are we to Descriptions of the missional church fall into believe that Jesus is there right now, as we sit and the same temptation. We talk as if we own Jesus: read these words? Is Christ among those who since we have God’s presence, we must transform share his suffering and disgrace and abuse? The our churches into missional communities that lead singer for U2 offered a stunning answer to share what we already possess. Thus giving only www.sxc.hu these questions. In February 2006, Bono preached goes in one direction: Jesus is ours to give away. a sermon to president George W. Bush and his We own the patent on God’s presence; the church Continued friends. His words reverberate with the thought of owns the exclusive rights of Jesus. on page 10

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 9 Continued But Phil Kniss, pastor of Park View Mennonite from page 9 Church in Harrisonburg Va., describes a different missional encounter, one that resonates with Hebrews. In a sermon on Feb. 4, 2007, Kniss said that a missional church wanders into the world and “asks what God is up to around here.” Through wandering, this church “lets go of itself,” surrenders agenda and strategies and cultivates virtues of receptivity. This is a church that “listens and looks” because “the reign of God is trying to be born somewhere.” Therefore “we go [into the world] as willing to receive as to give.” Kniss envisions a missional church that is “as

willing to receive as to give.” Hospitality is the suppliedPhoto name of this posture. We are nomads with open hands, ready to receive someone else’s lead and blood. Sure, welcoming strangers may be a because with her hand comes Christ’s body. We form of generosity. Yet the author of Hebrews wander beyond the walls of our community shows how hospitality is also our way of receiving because Jesus is there, calling out to us, awaiting God’s presence—some have welcomed God with- reception. That’s why the author of Hebrews clos- out knowing it. The messenger of God, the Lord, es by telling the church to welcome the stranger: comes to us through strangers and foreigners. “Do not neglect caring for strangers, for through They are God’s missions to save us from our- this some have cared for messengers without selves. Will we serve them as Abraham and Sarah knowing” (13:2). shared a meal with the Lord? Can we consider how foreigners may be God in our midst, divine messengers who bring the word from God? We are nomads with open hands, ready With Hebrews as our wilderness guide, our churches will become missional when we learn to to receive someone else’s lead because welcome strangers, prisoners and the mistreated as agents of God’s call. Our task is to open our- with her hand comes Christ’s body. selves to receive what they can give: their very presence, which may turn out to be our Lord. In his forthcoming book To See History Doxologically, Alex Sider of Bluffton (Ohio) University puts it With this verse the author of Hebrews reminds this way: “For the author of Hebrews, [the gospel] us of the story of Abraham and Sarah. They show is continually given as an ecstatic mission that hospitality to three messengers who turn out to be takes the shape of mutual love and hospitality.” We the Lord: “The Lord appeared to Abraham … as wander into the good news of Christ’s presence he sat at the entrance of his tent … Abraham when our mission of love takes us into unfamiliar looked up and saw three men standing near him. places where we can share a stranger’s burdens. When he saw them, he ran from the tent to meet Mutual love and hospitality is how we receive them and bowed down to the ground” (Genesis Jesus into our lives. 18:1-2). Strangers turn out to be the Lord. Who The gospel is an ecstatic mission, writes Sider, would expect God to show up as a few homeless where we give and receive the good news as God travelers? guides us into relationships where we share bur- We are far too comfortable with a fleshless dens and learn to love one another. Discipleship is Jesus. We suffer from Gnostic sensibilities that our unceasing struggle to welcome the good news deceive us into thinking we can separate spirits of God’s love for the world into our lives. Thus dis- from bodies. But Genesis 18 tells us that our God cipleship is also hospitality; it is how we make appeared as three strangers—real people, flesh room in our lives for Christ’s redemption. And

10 TheMennonite February 17,2009 The gleaners of Oakley

by Joel Miller according to Hebrews, we make room for The laws of Moses, Jesus when we welcome suffering strangers ancient as stone, and wandering foreigners. They are the mes- command the one sengers of God for our redemption. They have harvesting a field much to give if we are willing to receive the to leave behind the edges, the corners, the extras, the leftovers. gifts of their presence. Will we receive them The scraps—at least the scraps—are for the poor and the sojourner. as God’s mission to save us from ourselves? Early Wednesday mornings, outside my bedroom window, If our American churches want a future, well before the recycling truck rumbles through the neighborhood, we need to wander into the places everyone I hear the gleaners of Oakley, else abandons. That’s where we belong—on foraging through the fields of green bins that line the street. the margins. Our people are the ones who Curbside scraps and leftovers. look like Jesus, suffering in cardboard A harvest of aluminum boxes, under the rubble of war, among the will become debris. Our people are the ones everyone their daily bread. else has cast out, the unclean, the aban- doned, the strange. Joel Miller is pastor of Cincinnati Mennonite Fellowship. “Let us then go to him outside the camp and bear the abuse he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we are looking for the city that is to come” (13:13-14). Hebrews tells us that home is elsewhere. I join the strangers on Wednesday during my lunch hour because I’m homeless, too, or at least I need to learn what it means to be homeless. They are my teachers; I am a disciple with much to learn, much to receive. Hebrews tells me that Jesus is out there on the side of the road. I can’t say that I recognize him. That’s why I’ll go again. Maybe it takes time to see such mysteries. For now I’ll let a question guide me as I wander: If I pray “thy kingdom come” with them every week, will I discover that the coming kingdom is already at hand? For the kingdom happens at the table when we break bread and bear each other’s burdens. And if that’s the case, this kingdom is not something I possess. It’s not a kingdom I can build if I work hard enough. Rather, it’s an episodic kingdom that happens whether I’m there or not. I can receive it only if I return to their foldup table next week and take my seat and patiently await another advent of God’s presence. “But we do see Jesus.” Maybe he will come when I sit and pray and eat on the margins of highway 15/501. Hopefully I’ll recognize him this time. All I can do is hope.

Isaac Villegas is pastor of Chapel Hill (N.C.) Photo illustration | Dee Birkey Photo Mennonite Fellowship.

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 11 by David Landis

north of the border of the Gaza Strip. He told me stories of how his family used to take their bikes into Gaza City before the conflict escalated. He joked about how they were so close to the border with Gaza that when rockets were fired they went right over his family’s house. Maoz spoke with an awareness of the suffering of his neighbors yet exuded a warmth and persistence that moved for- ward with hope. Maoz had recently completed his second around-the-world trip and was exploring opportuni- ties to build peace in his own country. He wanted to start a backpacker-style guesthouse in an Arab city in Israel and use tourism with the develop- studied in the Middle East with Eastern ment of hiking routes to bridge the gap between Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, Va., dur- Jews and Arabs. He imagined Israeli Jews walking ing the fall semester of my junior year, and this into an Arab market for the first time, experienc- period of international learning altered the ing a Palestinian hospitality that smells like syrup- course of my life. My experiences abroad initiated laden ktayyef and knaffe, hot mint and sage tea, misgivings about going into medicine after gradua- freshly ground coffee and cardamon. tion, I began a period of global travel to explore I continued on my journey but stayed connect- possibilities. In the following year, I visited more ed to the development of Maoz’s dream. Within a than 40 countries, including a trip back to few months, the Fauzi Azar Inn was up and run- Israel/Palestine to visit friends and spend a month ning in the winding old city streets of Nazareth, hiking the Israel National Trail, a 950-kilometer the largest Arab city in Israel. The inn is located in hiking route traversing the length of the country. a historic Arab mansion with marble floors from While I was scouring the Internet for informa- Turkey, roof tiles from France and beautiful 200- tion on the Israel National Trail, I came across year-old hand-painted ceilings by a Lebanese only one site in English—the blog of a young artist. The Azar family owns the house, and Israeli hiker named Maoz Inon who chronicled his Maoz’s relationship with them has bridged the gap personal month-long journey with detail and to bring many Jewish tourists into the old city. He enthusiasm. On a whim, I emailed Maoz with a few loves to tell the story of how Israeli jaws drop as questions about practical hiking. His response they learn of the rich Palestinian culture and histo- resounded with exuberant hospitality, “You can ry that has resided in Nazareth for generations. stay at my house and use my maps. I’ll bring you water in the desert.” When I returned to Israel Maoz loves to tell the story the following spring, we hiked together during the peak of of how Israeli jaws drop as the green burst that follows winter rains, when the fields they learn of the rich are teeming with red poppies. We passed through Maoz’s Palestinian culture and family’s moshav, located just history that has resided in Nazareth for generations. www.sxc.hu

12 TheMennonite February 17,2009 Walking where Jesus walked helps put us in touch with his life and teachings.

Since the fall of 2007, I’ve been living in Jesus and his followers to pass months of their Nazareth and helping out at the Fauzi Azar Inn. time hiking through fields and valleys, up moun- Maoz and I have founded the Jesus Trail, a 65-kilo- tains and cliffs and through risky areas of political meter hiking route from Nazareth to Capernaum instability. The range of Jesus’ travels as an adult that connects major sites in Jesus’ life, including extends at least 50 miles east to west and 150 the Mount of Beatitudes, Tiberias, Mount Tabor, miles north to south through present-day Israel, Cana and the Sea of Galilee. Our vision is for the Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Jesus Trail to become a world-class route that pro- vides a way to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and The range of Jesus’ travels as an adult learn about his life and teachings. We hope it will bring people together from different nationalities, extends at least 50 miles east to west cultures and religions. During the past months in Nazareth, I have had and 150 miles north to south many conversations with travelers, hikers, stu- dents and the press relating to Jesus’ itinerant through present-day Israel, Jordan, lifestyle. Everyone is curious about the Jesus that existed before Christianity, asking, “What can we Lebanon and Syria. learn from the Jesus who walked between villages, encountered a diversity of people, and invited Jesus and his disciples’ diet likely would have them on a journey that promises abundant life?” consisted of bread and olive oil supplemented with How did Jesus travel during his life? local fruits and vegetables. A staff was used for Matthew 9:35 states that Jesus went through all protection against wild animals and thieves, which the towns and villages, teaching in their syna- lurked in rugged hill country and in border gogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom. regions where authority and security were tenu- In Mark 6:7-12, Jesus sends his disciples out on ous. It is unlikely they carried much money, foot in pairs, instructing them to take nothing for though some of the finances of Jesus’ itinerant the journey except a staff, no bread, no bag, no ministry were funded by Joanna, wife of Herod money in your belts. He asks them to travel light, Antipas’ finance minister, as well as several other rely on the hospitality of a diversity of neighbors women who were from Sepphoris (Luke 8:3). and spread the good news throughout the land. What realities affected travel and movement Since Jesus and his followers were not wealthy during Jesus lifetime? Roman diplomats or military leaders but mostly a Matthew 4:12-16 states that Jesus went to live in band of low-class fishermen and subsistence farm- the Capernaum region, near the Jordan River on ers, we can assume they traveled by foot. Walking “the way to the sea.” This ancient land route is between the towns listed in Scripture required called the Via Maris, connecting eastward to Damascus and serving as one of the major thor- oughfares through first-century Palestine between the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa. The Via Maris connected the silk and incense routes that extended from Iran and China to the ports of Ptolemais (Acco) and Caesarea on the Mediterranean coast of western Asia. Jesus was born during the period of the Roman Empire’s expansion throughout the Mediterranean

Continued on page 14 Wikimedia Commons | David Shankbone | David Wikimedia Commons February 17,2009 TheMennonite 13 The choice to follow Jesus is to transform life into a journey, take nothing for the road and walk with a trust in providence.

Continued region, creating a network of land and sea routes What does this mean for followers of Jesus today from page 13 used for transportation and communication. The and the Christian movement worldwide? Roman Road system was comprised of a network It is wise to be located in a region of interna- of over 63,000 miles of paved roads, connecting tional influence, demography and movement. centers of government, culture and power stretch- In order to communicate with the world, there ing from present-day Spain to Iran. is a need to be located in a region with exposure to In the first century, less than four miles from the world’s diversity. Today, these places are best the small village of Nazareth (population 200-400) represented as urban and border regions, near air- was Sepphoris, one of Herod Antipas’ capitals. ports and seaports and along major travel routes. This city boasted a population of 30,000 and was a Encountering diverse demography through every- center for culture and art in the Galilee, including day existence is the foundation to building rela- beautiful mosaics and a Roman theater, giving it tionships and bridges across people groups. the reputation as the ornament of the Galilee. It The geography of the kingdom of God has no also served as the political and banking capital of political, ethnic or religious borders. the region, housing many of the social and reli- Jesus’ vision and philosophy of land was gious elite. Although Scripture does not mention focused on following his example of breaking Sepphoris by name, it is likely Jesus was aware of down obstructions to movement and seeking rec- its existence, as a “city on a hill cannot be hidden” onciliatory relationships between diverse people and is visible from the ridges of Nazareth. groups. The choice to follow his example was a Proximity to Sepphoris would have provided Jesus decision to recognize each person as a neighbor employment with his father Joseph, exposure to and extending love even to enemies. This also foreigners from across the Roman world as well as means extending relationships beyond traditional the ability to learn to speak and read three lan- identities, whether national, political, ethnic, reli- guages: Greek, Hebrew and Aramaic. Through gious or denominational and focusing on the indi- archaeological evidence of cities and systems of vidual behind their public label. international transport during Jesus’ life and The choice to follow Jesus is to transform life informed speculation when interfaced with into a journey, take nothing for the road and walk Scripture, we can know that Jesus was in contact with a trust in providence. with the broader world. As paths are made by walking, the choice to Why might Jesus have chosen to travel? take Jesus seriously becomes real when move- Jesus’ choice to spend much of his adult life in a ment begins. This journey is sustained by simple state of itineracy provides hope to the destitute. living, intentionality, the practice of hospitality and For the poor and oppressed, Jesus’ way of living creative ingenuity. It becomes unending as the offered an invitation to choose freedom from traveler rests in the risk of action, grasping the oppressive and unjust structures—to consider reality that the exercise of faith is the true adven- them insignificant compared with the promised ture of the journey. good news. As the movement grew, Jesus’ choice The Jesus Trail and Fauzi Azar Inn continue to to build a kingdom with decentralized geography support the local communities nearby, inspiring consequentially disempowered elite establish- many neighbors to start businesses because of the ments that hoarded wealth and exerted control increasing interest and traffic. Our work is a com- through segregation. Whether Jesus’ intentions bined effort of locals and internationals, Muslims, were to challenge political and religious structures Christians and Jews. As we focus on providing hos- or not, it is clear his movement threatened the pitality for travelers passing through the land, our authorities enough to publicly execute him. different ethnic and religious backgrounds become The geography of the kingdom of God is not less important than our attention to others. We tied to specific places or people but is an invitation mostly encourage people on their journeys, open to all. In Jesus’ central region of Capernaum, whether physical or spiritual, offering them an he was in contact with a diversity of ethnic and opportunity to spend some time on the path of religious groups, making it possible to imagine the Jesus and experience abundant life. beauty of a world without borders, restriction of movement or division. His vision for the kingdom David Landis ([email protected]) works for of God is an invitation to mindfully journey in a Franconia Mennonite Conference and is based in way that is life-giving for all people. Nazareth, Israel.

14 TheMennonite February 17,2009 Preventing homelessness before it starts

by Jan Johnson www.sxc.hu

arol could never catch up financially. Before a reliable used car or she could pay for rent, food and child care, her who rents inexpensive apart- purse was empty. As we became friends, I ments. They may know about employers who often found her staring into an empty refrigerator offer child care, such as universities and hospitals. and crying over her broken marriage. Although A needy person may not qualify for a professional she was a teacher, she didn’t manage money well job, but clerical and custodial help may be needed. and was too devastated by her divorce to care. Ask potentially homeless friends to rethink How could I be She taught summer school, but when it was their family options. Can an aunt or in-law move in concerned over in July, she couldn’t find a temporary job that and trade room and board for child care? Many enough coordinated with child care and bus schedules. times people in this situation are estranged from I tried to help. I paid her to watch my children. I family members who would help if they knew to write a check brought her food. I encouraged her to study for a there was a problem. Probe to see if they could to a downtown state teaching credential test so she could get a patch things up with their families. mission job in a higher-paying public school. Beyond that, I People who work regularly with the homeless but not enough was stumped. Then I read in the newspaper that can direct us to resources. Some churches publish to recognize single-parent families were the fastest-growing cat- their own classified ads or bulletin boards that fea- a friend egory among the homeless, and I realized Carol ture used furniture, jobs and quality day care. and her children were likely candidates. There are Here are some other ways you can bring hope who soon could at least a half million homeless children today; to those feeling discouraged by their situation: become some statistics suggest up to a million. How could Be a friend. View this person as a peer instead a resident I be concerned enough to write a check to a down- of a “needy person.” On Carol’s birthday, my hus- there? town mission but not enough to recognize a friend band watched her children while I took her out for who soon could become a resident there? I had cheesecake. “I feel so special,” she whispered. stereotyped the down-and-out person as someone Validate them. Lack of self-esteem is a major living on Skid Row, but that’s not so. problem. One way we can help is to point out this Typical scenarios leading to homelessness needy person’s good qualities. When I admired include a family that can’t find affordable housing Carol’s tall, slim figure in her class picture, she after its older building is torn down and a waitress looked shocked. Between the breakup of her mar- goes on medical leave and can’t survive on sick riage and her self doubts, she’d forgotten that any- pay without tips. one could think she was attractive. My friend Marguerite didn’t understand how Don’t expect miracles. Understand that some desperate her neighbors were until someone days a potentially homeless person may want to bought their house at a foreclosure auction. “I work on problems and other days feel hopeless. remember the husband lost his job, but I never Carol studied for her credential test sporadically. I dreamed it was that bad,” she said. learned to praise her for her confident moments The problem of homelessness can be so over- and walk with her through the discouraging ones. whelming we think only specialized organizations Find support. A family’s personal and medical are equipped to deal with it. But a friend who problems may be more than you can handle. works at Union Rescue Mission in Los Angeles told Shelters and self-help groups for alcoholics, spous- me she believes the church is the highway around es of alcoholics and battered women are often list- Skid Row. “It’s that committed network of people ed in the telephone book. Some missions offer who already know potentially homeless people who free clinics. Some churches offer free counseling. Jan Johnson is can help the most—before they get down here.” Share your faith. Since Carol already knew the a retreat speak- Here are some suggestions on how we can help: Lord, I tried to remind her that God loved her er and author Be a resource person. People with financial prob- without giving her pat answers. of Growing lems can get so discouraged that they aren’t good Helping others doesn’t have to drain you; it can Compassionate at digging up job training programs or subsidized help you. After talking to Carol about how God Kids and child care. We can make some phone calls and always provides, I received a car insurance bill that Enjoying the search the Internet. had doubled. “We can never pay this,” I stormed. I Presence of Ask friends if they know someone who’s selling rehearsed my words on myself. God.

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 15 www.sxc.hu Communion Communion and mission can go together. by Eleanor Kreider

arly Christian tradition, not New Testament whole creation into wholeness and peace.” With teaching, tied baptism and Communion joy and commitment we respond, “Yes.” Both our together. In the first few centuries after the worship and the call into God’s mission are gift. apostles a dramatic baptismal rite of entry God initiates mission and worship, and each flows into a bounded Christian community prepared the through the other. Nourished at the table, we path to the weekly Eucharistic table of nourish- become co-workers in God’s great mission of rec- ment and joy in the presence of the Risen Christ. onciliation, justice, healing and hope. Enforced universal baptism eventually distorted We respond to God the servant from above both baptism and Communion. As western Communion is not an abstraction, not a per- Christians we have inherited a complicated history formance, not a beautiful event to induce peaceful of the church’s treasured forms of worship. Today, feelings, not a tradition to maintain. Communion is Mennonites rightly look to the Communion ser- a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, the ser- vice as a proper center and source for our calling vant from above. He is the one who loves us, saves to build community, to follow Christ in discipleship us, serves us and calls us into fullness of life. and to foster justice and reconciliation. In the Communion service he says, “See my hands. See my side.” He says, “Come to me, you Does our Communion express God’s who are troubled and weary. Your sins are forgiv- en.” He says, “Love one another as I have loved character and concerns? you. Pray for your enemies.” Here at the Lord’s Table is mercy, forgiveness Does our Communion express God’s character and grace offered for all in the very person of and concerns? What does it mean that Christ is Jesus Christ. We eat the bread of Jesus’ life and present when we gather at his table? How does the drink the cup of his sacrifice. In the dialogue of Spirit energize us for self-giving love and service as adoration we respond with fervor and joy, then we go out? A Trinitarian approach addresses some turn to receive each other with open hearts. We of our questions. In this service we “praise God the “welcome one another just as Christ has welcomed Abba bearing love, praise God the servant from [us], for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7). The above, praise God the Paraclete we share” (Gail harmony of this welcome is not to please ourselves Ramshaw-Schmidt, “Naming the Trinity: Orthodoxy but to build each other up so that glory will come and Inclusivity,” Worship, November 1986). to God. Worship and welcome are God’s gifts to We respond to God the Abba bearing love the church. In Communion we pledge love to Like the sun with the sunflower, Abba God Christ and one another, sealing it in shared bread turns to us in our worship, and we turn our faces and wine. “We who are many are one body, for we to Abba. In Communion the story of God’s whole all partake of the one bread” (1 Corinthians 10:17). saving action comes first. Listening to this story is We respond to God the Paraclete we share like feeling the warm sun on our faces. Turning How are we to join in God’s universal welcome toward the warmth, we respond. First we hear and mission? Only through the Spirit of God, the sweep of the great story, then our who comes alongside us (paraclete) to praise and thanksgiving flow. comfort, prepare and strengthen us. Is worship only what we do? We As we pray at the table, God the plan Communion, lead it, experi- Paraclete, works through our ritual ence it, either like or dislike it. It actions, enabling us to participate is more. It is gift. But in this gift in a fruitful way. It is more than of worship do we actually receive ordinary eating and drinking. mercy, forgiveness and grace? Taking into ourselves the bread Abba God calls out to us, “Come and wine—gifts of Christ’s very to me. You are my beloved peo- www.sxc.hu life—we present ourselves to be ple. Listen to my great passion. transformed. Communion is a Join me as I work to restore the type of commissioning, a call to

16 TheMennonite February 17,2009 questions

extend outward the welcome and love we have es, held on a weekday evening, would not be received. The loving energy of the Spirit trans- advertised, and may include footwashing and more forms us as individuals and as a community. How extensive intercessory prayers. do we respond to the Spirit in Communion? By 2. If a church holds to the classic invitation for a committing ourselves to self-giving love in the Sunday Communion open to baptized Christians service of brother, sister, neighbor and enemy. only, it could always extend a winsome invitation Communion, with its intense focus on the pres- to baptismal faith. Perhaps a forthrightly open invi- ence of Christ, calls us in the power of the Spirit tation to baptism is more hospitable than offering into the mission of God. The Spirit shapes individ- an open invitation to the Communion table. Are we ual believers and the congregation into Christlike more willing to welcome than to invite? people who will join in God’s mission of reconcilia- tion. We will breathe mercy, offer forgiveness, Are we more willing to welcome pray for the enemy, love the neighbor and wel- come the stranger. In Communion we act out the than to invite? Lord’s Prayer as we receive bread and forgiveness from Abba’s hand, then offer bread and forgive- 3. A church may con- ness to others, hallow God’s name, and pray for sider all its meals Eucharistic the coming of the kingdom. meals. Potlucks, soup kitchen meals, small group In light of this cosmic context, we realize the snacks—all may begin with simple ritual words, questions we ask about Communion may be too for example: “Christ is our host. His life is our

small. Each question we ask becomes a bigger bread and our drink. Let us take this food with www.sxc.hu question. thanksgiving and joy.” This is not exactly • Who can we invite to the Communion Table? Communion, but it resonates with Communion becomes bigger: Does the quality of Christ’s wel- prayers and is a legitimate extension of them. come we experience in Communion permeate our 4. A church may separate the bread and the everyday relationships? cup. The invitation to share bread would be for • What kind of bread shall we use and what everyone: “This is the bread for the world, the size of cup? becomes bigger: Does the generosity bread of life. Jesus invites us all. Everyone can of God’s provision spill over into passionate local share.” The invitation to the cup would be for and global sharing? those who have committed their lives to Christ • How do we do the peace greeting? becomes and his way (Matthew 20:22): “This is the cup of bigger: Does the love and peace within the church discipleship. Those who are willing to walk with extend outward to self-giving love of neighbor and Christ, drink his cup and receive baptism will par- enemy? ticipate.” Here is a way to combine an open invita- • How do I keep from offending my sister who tion in the same service with an invitation even frets that we sing the wrong songs at Communion? more intense than usual to Jesus’ costly cup of becomes bigger: How can we invite outsiders into baptism and life-giving service. a common song of joy and glory to God? 5. In Communion we rightly celebrate the joy of • How could we even think of offering the resurrection. But Communion holds all the Communion to an unbaptized person? becomes themes of redemption together: Christ’s life, suf- bigger: Might we be more flexible, offering differ- fering, death, vindication, presence in his Spirit ent kinds of Communion in the round of church and his coming again. In Communion, as in the life, becoming a community of many tables? rest of our lives as Christians, we will “know Five modest proposals Christ and the power of his resurrection and the 1. A church could hold two kinds of Communion sharing of his sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). It is services—public and closed. Public services, gen- uniquely in Communion that this whole story erally on Sunday mornings, begin with an open holds together. And this story, told and enacted in invitation and draw on themes of meals from Communion, is still the greatest “draw” to faith. Jesus’ ministry. Communion in this case may be a Communion is a table of mission. route to baptism. Closed services, for baptized Christians only, emphasize the disciplines and Eleanor Kreider teaches at Associated Mennonite mutual love of covenanted believers. These servic- Biblical Seminary, Elkhart, Ind.

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 17 SPEAKING OUT

A biblical consideration for adoption

s the population continues to rise, people ask, The facts of displaced children and the sheer How does God want me to care for children? amount of couples that want children are undeni- A This does not imply that God wants all people able. However, there is a solution both to the ache to be parents or schoolteachers but draws upon of the orphan’s abandonment and the desire of the biblical model of adoption and care for couples to have children. Christians have an obli- orphans. Although the Bible clearly demonstrates gation to form their ethics and actions after what the responsibility of both the mother and the the Bible instructs. The Scriptures paint a picture father in bringing up the child, concern for the dis- of selflessness and generosity, not just as a sugges- enfranchised is certainly a theme in the Bible. tion but also as a way of life. Perhaps the most Our mandate, given by Jesus Christ under the vivid image of these two virtues comes in the con- new covenant, is to care for the orphaned. He cept of adoption. advocated letting the children come to him when The Scriptures certainly speak of adoption, but the disciples wanted to dismiss them. He had adoption is used in the Bible in reference to God great concern for these children, who were pre- adopting us. We were unwanted and sinful; God cious in his sight, regardless of took us in, sanctifying us and C. Richie is in the Master of their ethnicity, gender or capa- giving us life eternal. God not Divinity program bilities. Yet there are many chil- Why should some children be only adopted us but did it by sac- at Gordon- dren, globally and nationally, rificing his only begotten Son, Conwell who are without mother and brought into existence when Jesus Christ. It was through giv- Theological father or, worse yet, on the ing up his own Son that we can Seminary, South there are many loving, Hamilton, Mass. streets fending for themselves. be called sons and daughters of There are 11-year-old girls on beautiful children who need the Father. the streets of the world prostitut- homes immediately? In the same way, through the ing themselves; doing despica- relinquishing of the ability to ble acts one’s wife would not do, have biological children, more just to have money to feed them- children can be adopted as sons selves. In India, parents intentionally mutilate the and daughters and saved from a life of a hell on bodies of their children so they can panhandle on earth. How much love a child can feel when par- the streets. Young boys steal and rob for food or ents come and pick them out of a life of destitu- allow themselves to be violated by perverse men tion! Then with the life example of adoption, the for money. parents can explain how God adopted them into In this country as well are children who des- his family. perately need homes. They are given up by young The question before us is, How can we continue women who accidentally or forcefully get preg- to procreate wantonly when we know there are nant. There are even more school-age children many children of equal dignity and worth with a whose parents do not emotionally take care of life full of pain, abandoned by their parents who them. Yet all these at-risk children who could be did not want them? The Lord Jesus welcomed chil- adopted are deemed unwanted because they are dren to sit on his lap while he blessed them, and “too old,” not of European descent or because he would not have turned a blind eye to the aban- potential adoptive parents worry about the doned child. orphaned child not looking like one of their own. Why should some children be brought into They are disregarded as unlovable because of cir- existence when there are many loving, beautiful cumstances they cannot control. Many children children who need homes immediately? Let us wait for parents to adopt them, but as they get remember the words from James, “Religion that is older, their chances of being adopted diminish, pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: and so does their hope. to care for orphans” (1:27). This pure action will glorify the Almighty God more than a thousand IN THE NEXT ISSUE live births. TM

• Stories of pastors in need of health insurance The views expressed in this publication do not necessar- —Madelyn Metzger ily represent the official positions of The Mennonite, the board for The Mennonite, Inc., or Mennonite Church USA.

18 TheMennonite February 17,2009 What do the church and schools want? Greg Boyd tells Mennonite leaders ‘Mennonite culture’ is not the treasure.

tions and reduce the number of colleges and semi- naries. Bontrager said he sees the “reduction of physical campuses expanding the number of points of contact” and perhaps allowing for pres- ences in major cities. Bontrager’s other suggestions for Mennonite institutions included providing dual enrollment with local community institutions and offering Greg Boyd online programs. He also suggested MEA shift from its facilitative role and act as a think tank. In another session, Sarah Flanagan, vice presi- dent for U.S. government relations and policy for National Association of Independent College and Universities, described four realities affecting higher education institutions: technology that James Rosenberger, Mennonite Education Agency board allows for real communities on the Internet, the chair, speaks during a question-and-answer time with Greg increased role of government in higher education, Boyd, keynote speaker. the accountability movement and influence of No Child Left Behind and the decreasing cost to reg Boyd, pastor of Woodland Hills Church attend public universities. in St. Paul, Minn., says Mennonites have a In other news, Elaine Moyer, principal of G precious treasure to offer in the 21st century. Christopher Dock Mennonite School; Bob Rutt, In fact, his evangelical church of 2,000 people is executive director of Penn View Christian School; considering becoming a Mennonite church. and Phil Swartley, administrator at Quakertown This article is However, as the plenary speaker at the Menno- Christian School, introduced GPS 2012, a collabo- available as a nite Education Leaders gathering in Pittsburgh rative strategic plan initiative between the schools podcast at Jan. 30-Feb. 1, Boyd encouraged the group to dis- and in partnership with Eastern District and www.The tinguish “culture” from the kingdom of God. Franconia Mennonite Conference to create a “tri- Mennonite.org “Cultures are always changing,” he said. “The school community” in Eastern Pennsylvania. treasure is not Mennonite culture.” —Anna Groff Boyd went on to challenge the leaders to offer up Mennonite culture as “a sort of Isaac to God.” Some 300 board members and administrators A conversation between schools and the church attended the gathering—sponsored by Mennonite Education Agency (MEA), Mennonite Schools What do schools need from the church? Council, Mennonite higher education institutions By Loren Swartzendruber, Eastern Mennonite University president and Mennonite Early Childhood Network—with 1. Prayer the theme “Growing as Trees of Righteousness.” 2. Names for faculty, staff and board positions Boyd also encouraged the Mennonite education 3. Advocacy 4. Accurate information about costs to church members leaders to spend time with intentional groups such 5. Completion of the Mennonite Education Agency census forms as the Simple Way in Philadelphia to learn from 6. Student aid plans other movements. 7. A spirit of love and pride toward Mennonite schools When asked whether Mennonite schools 8. Tolerance should be “sectarian,” as in the past, or “integra- tionist,” Boyd said to err on the sectarian side and What does the church need from schools? boldly emphasize theological distinctives. By Sharon Waltner, Mennonite Church USA moderator 1. Know that church is relational and humans crave face-to-face contact. “Be as scandalously flexible with the cultural 2. Communicate about spiritual activities on campus to parents. nonessentials as you are inflexible with kingdom 3. Bring faculty and staff as speakers to our congregations. essentials,” he said. 4. Remember the powerful effect that staff and faculty have on students. In a general session, leaders discussed trends 5. Use Mennonite Church USA identity symbols. in educational institutions and possible changes. 6. Require a course on the “missional paradigm.” 7. Encourage all faculty to understand and teach the “missional paradigm,” Bob Bontrager, a consultant from Elkhart, Ind., not just the Bible/religion department.—Anna Groff proposed that Mennonite colleges and universities join forces with the Mennonite Brethren institu-

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 19 Leaders say church planting on the rise, but ‘witness’ goal difficult to measure

he gospel of Jesus Christ is practiced and pro- Stanley Green claimed through a seamless web of evangel- Executive director of Mennonite Mission Network T ism, justice and peace across the street and around the world.” This goal is one of four estab- Last year when I spoke at a con- lished by Mennonite Church USA delegates when gregation about becoming a mis- the denomination was formed in 2001. Anna Groff sional people, I highlighted the asked four leaders to assess progress toward our importance of engaging our cul- “witness” goal.—Editor ture so that we share our witness to Jesus as the source of healing Sharon Waltner and hope. Afterward an older Moderator of Mennonite Church USA Stanley Green gentleman told me that he was in his 80s and had been a pastor for Given the Witness is the essence of the most of his life. I steeled myself to hear a critique. Christian walk for all believers, Instead, the man whose hand I was shaking asked choice and it’s one of four missional pri- me to pray for him. With tears flowing down his orities Mennonite Church USA is cheeks, he shared that at one time in his life he between committed to developing and cared passionately about engaging people with the nurturing between now and gospel but that he had “lost it.” His despair was orderly 2020. truly frightening. The missional paradigm In my encounters with fellow Mennonites, I try control and Sharon Walnter moves us from a passive “send- to make sense of the mixed signals. According to ing” role to a position of empow- some surveys, a quarter of Mennonites report a a dynamic erment as we are now “being sent.” We are mak- keen missional consciousness. These encounters Holy Spirit ing progress, even though we cannot measure it with fellow-believers leave me feeling encouraged. with numbers and charts. Congregations are However, I meet just as many people who seem to global embracing the idea that the church exists for the have lost it. They have lost the capacity to share world rather than itself. People are learning that about Jesus and, sadly, do not seem to care about movement, attending church is not about “what’s in it for me” that loss. A few years ago I received a letter from a (WIIFM) but rather, “How can I better learn to fellow Mennonite who berated me for believing I’ll take the worship, witness and serve others?” Our “mission- that we should invite others to encounter Jesus. aries” aren’t the only ones charged with witness. These encounters leave me saddened and discour- latter. The rest of us are also called to be evidence of aged about the identity and future of Mennonites. God’s kingdom here and now. I find hope in encountering some Mennonites, —Loren Congregations and conferences are increasingly mostly immigrant and newly emergent congrega- Horst committed to mending the gaps between evangel- tions, who are sincere in their witness. We are a ism and peace-justice—both of which are integral community that encompasses both those with an to our church’s collective witness. Some see these apathy about having lost our capacity for witness as opposing options, even pitted against each other to Jesus and many who share an enthusiasm to be for emphasis. The Executive Board feels this is a aligned with God’s purposes for healing and hope false dichotomy. Has the web of evangelism and in the world. Churches are dying for lack of wit- peace-justice become seamless? We are making ness, and new churches are being planted in many progress, but I fear we still have a few areas need- places around the world and across the street in ing generous applications of duct tape to hold this many communities in this country. web together. Have we made progress? I believe the jury is Our Savior said, “As the Father has sent me, so still out. Will we allow ourselves to tolerate a fur- I send you. Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:21- ther erosion of our capacity for witness through 22). Witness is not something we delegate to oth- accommodation to the relativism in our culture? ers. It doesn’t require degrees, training or skills. It Alternatively, will we recover our identity as heirs is accepting the empowering call to being sent. to the Anabaptist tradition marked by such an Note: For the full We are not all called to be missionaries in the enthusiasm to share about Jesus that it makes us responses from these leaders, traditional sense of the word, but we are all sent. I willing to endure the discomfort of boldly pro- go to www. cannot envision a greater example of radical and claiming Jesus in a culture that has little place for themennonite. org. seamless witness. him? In some places we have made great strides in

20 TheMennonite February 17,2009 In the East there are 47 new churches and ministries envisioned or in forma- tion, but one key leader reports many of us have lost interest in evangelism.

our interest and capacity to bear witness to Jesus. in this case they may only partly conceal a deep, In other parts of our church we have seen overall new turning to God, issuing in all kinds of practi- declension. The choices we make in our lives and cal steps in local and global witness. in our local congregations about allowing our- selves to become the “sent ones” will determine Loren Horst our future and answer this question. President of Virginia Mennonite Missions

Richard Showalter Congregations are reaching out. President of Eastern Mennonite Missions While congregations will always struggle to keep a right balance We are farther along than we between maintenance and mis- were six years ago in intent to sion, almost every congregation be a missional church. The “mis- is trying. “Mission,” though vari- sional church” language is ously defined, is still one of the understood and affirmed by highest values in the church. more. Professor Patrick Loren Horst There is a resurgence of new Keifert’s prophetic word says church formation, albeit taking “the whole church is missional various forms. Church planting is again on the Richard Showalter when it is as much ‘church sent’ rise. A recent tally by a number of conferences in as it is ‘church gathered.’ ” the east totaled 47 new churches or ministries in Though this has made us less comfortable, we be- some stage of vision and formation. lieve that Keifert is right. The pace is accelerating compared with the last There are signs that we are beginning to number of years. While the number of people will- change our behavior. This past summer, members ing to be supportive of church planting may have of West End Mennonite Fellowship of Lancaster, declined a bit, they still represent 78 percent of Pa., under the leadership of pastor Josef Berthold, Mennonite Church USA members, according to spent time each week interacting with their neigh- Conrad Kanagy’s Church Member Profile. That bors on their turf, where we, not they, are most translates into 6,678 people in my own conference. vulnerable. Last year, Elizabethtown district of The challenge is to help people move from “will- Lancaster Mennonite Conference distributed free ing” to “doing.” hoagies in a neighboring town. This year, the bish- Mennonite Church USA is becoming more ops and credentialed leaders also took “plunges” global and multicultural. Nearly 30 percent of the into our surrounding communities, meeting and members in my conference are members of racial- blessing those they met. Congregations such as Ephrata, Lititz and Weaverland report exciting developments in outreach to local youth. We are not all called to be “missionaries”in the traditional sense Such activities do not in themselves make us of the word,but we are all “sent.”—Sharon Waltner any more missional than operating day-care cen- ters, serving new immigrants, reaching out to pris- oners, giving to AIDS victims, working for peace ethnic churches. Such congregations are the and justice or going to Thailand to work in com- growing edge of our denomination, so the percent- munity development—more common ventures age will continue to grow. Such congregations still among us. However, they indicate a vector, inten- do not carry corresponding authority or responsi- tionally moving beyond our church walls in new bility for Mennonite Church USA, so work ways with kingdom purpose. remains to be done. Yet the overarching challenges are not small. Most congregations now have members who With membership standing now at about 16,000, are globally aware, and many are even capable of Mennonite Church USA’s largest conference, mounting mission efforts far beyond our borders Lancaster, has experienced a 20 percent decline in or neighborhoods, with or without the help of mis- this decade, in contrast to steady increases in sion agencies. Some confusion will result, but those preceding. Thank God that numbers are not given the choice between orderly control and a the only measure of church health. Sometimes, dynamic Holy Spirit global movement, I’ll take the indeed, they are positively misleading. I pray that latter.—Anna Groff

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 21 Progress grows from conflict, leader says Burkina Faso’s 500 Mennonites known as people of peace, conflict mediators. ithout conflict, there is no progress, Siaka to bring together factions that had fermented dur- Traoré told a group of West African church ing the four years following the coup d’état that W leaders and expatriate missionaries at the brought him to office. Traoré, appreciated for his Institut Missiologique du Sahel, an interdenomina- peace-building ability, was named to the presiden- tional mission training school in Ouagadougou last tial advisory commission charged with implement- October. ing the conciliatory actions resulting from the Day “The nonviolent approach to conflict relentless- of Forgiveness. ly seeks out dialogue, and if refused, provokes it,” Traoré has experienced both conflict’s pain and Siaka Traoré said Traoré, president of Eglise Evangélique the transformative aspects from the beginning of Mennonite du Burkina Faso. his Christian life. Born into a Muslim family, Burkina Faso’s 500 Mennonites may seem like a Traoré found compelling questions in the Islamic few grains of salt in the sauce of a predominantly texts he studied as a boy but few satisfying Muslim nation of more than 13 million. But answers. In the life and teaching of Jesus, Traoré because they are known as people of peace, found the truth he longed for. Mennonites are sought out to season society Though many Muslim families reject those who through mediation of family and societal disputes. convert to Christianity, Traoré and his father Mennonites are increasingly recognized for found a reconciling path that allowed them to their work in reconciliation and social justice, says respect each other’s faith. Jeff Warkentin, who, with his wife, Tany, works as “What convinced my father was the correlation a church planter in Burkina Faso through between what I said about my faith and how I lived Mennonite Church Canada Witness. my faith. I continued to obey him,” Traoré said. Mennonites entered the arena of national con- —Lynda Hollinger-Janzen of Mennonite Mission flict mediation in 2001, when President Blaise Network, with Jeff and Tany Warkentin and Dan Compaoré called for a National Day of Forgiveness Dyck of Mennonite Church Canada Witness

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22 TheMennonite February 17,2009 EMU helps Virginia Tech’s peace center Former horticulture professor who lost wife in the shootings now heads program. wenty-one months ago, professor Jerzy Jon Styer Nowak was writing a grant at Virginia Tech T when student Seung-Hui Cho began a shoot- ing rampage. When the shootings were over, Nowak’s wife, Jocelyne Couture-Nowak, was among the 32 who died. In the chaotic and grief-filled aftermath, one of the three Nowak daughters, 23-year-old Francine, told a reporter that the best way of memorializing her mother and the other victims would be estab- lishing a peace center at Virginia Tech. In May 2008, Virginia Tech announced the estab- lishment of a Center of Peace Studies and Violence Prevention, with Nowak as its head. Promoting peace is a new life mission for Nowak, who previously headed Virginia Tech’s horticul- Virginia Tech, as well as with a scholarship in her Eastern Menno- ture department. Nowak led a group of 11 from name awarded annually to French majors. Virginia nite University Virginia Tech to Eastern Mennonite University Tech students have also organized a new foreign president Loren Swartzendruber (EMU), Harrisonburg, Va., Jan. 22, to meet with language program named “Teach for Madame” in (left) meets with its president, academic leaders in conflict transfor- honor of Couture-Nowak, wherein members teach Jerzy Nowak, mation and students studying peacebuilding. French to elementary school students. And last head of Center of “I knew almost nothing about Eastern Menno- but not least, her husband now heads a peace cen- Peace Studies and nite before I started exploring how to set up our ter in the building where she died.—Bonnie Price Violence Preven- tion at Virginia peace studies program,” says Nowak. “But among Lofton of Eastern Mennonite University Tech. numerous information packages and offers of col- laboration I have received, I found its peace pro- gram to be fascinating and one of the most highly regarded.” Visit our welcoming community ... The Virginia Tech group observed an under- graduate class in justice, peace and conflict stud- Come to our open house March 27 ies, met with professors and staff at EMU’s Center for Justice and Peacebuilding and learned how CJP’s Practice and Training Institute serves as a bridge between the theories and skills taught in the classroom and their application. Nowak had a particular interest in the global nature of EMU’s work—CJP has hosted students and practitioners from dozens of countries over the last 12 months—because he himself was born in Poland and has worked on agricultural matters in West Germany, Nigeria and Canada. “We are pleased to collaborate with Virginia Tech,” says Loren Swartzendruber, EMU presi- dent. “The more of us in the peace business, the better.” Nowak’s wife, Jocelyne, was teaching an inter- mediate French class in Norris Hall on the morn- ing of April 16, 2007, when she heard the gunfire of Seung-Hui Cho. She led her students to barri- cade the door with a desk and ushered them away from the door. The barricade did not stop Cho. Couture-Nowak and 11 of the 22 registered in her Financial aid is still available, so call class died. She has been memorialized with the Jocelyne Couture-Nowak Terrace Garden at (574) 535-7535 or go to goshen.edu/journey

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 23 Man follows call to work with homeless Lee Penner wanted to do something more than hand out tracts at Wal-mart. ee Penner, Newton, Kan., was restless and felt shelter board member. “Various classes at the like a man without a spiritual home. Though church are each responsible for one night of that L his former church focused on sharing how week to bring meals and take shifts to connect Jesus saves hearts, there seemed less interest in with the residents and stay overnight.” sharing how Jesus’ way of life called believers to A warning label comes with involvement, he meet the social needs of their neighbors. says. It takes energy and sacrifice of time and Penner’s search for how to better integrate his resources when one begins to do a hands-on min- faith led to his volunteer work with homeless peo- istry in one’s backyard. Lee Penner ple in Harvey County—a ministry supported and For Penner it has meant following up with the encouraged by his current congregation, First shelter residents when they leave. He became Mennonite Church in Newton. friends with someone who later took his own life, “I wanted something beyond the idea of sharing received 3 a.m. phone calls from folks in crisis and Jesus with people by handing out spiritual tracts at worked with addicts who had no food or rides to Wal-Mart or on street corners,” says Penner, now the hospital. For me to First Mennonite’s representative to the Harvey “There is a Vietnam vet in our community who County Homeless Shelter. “For me to continue to has done some informal polling in Newton,” continue to be spiritually healthy, I needed to better connect Penner says. “He has found at least 20 families be spiritually Sunday worship with real needs of real people. I who don’t have any utilities. They have no water, needed to integrate my heart with my hands.” no gas, no electricity and are afraid they will end healthy,I Penner’s call began when he went on a DOOR up with no children, too, if the system finds out needed to program mission trip to Denver as a sponsor with what dire straits they are in. his former congregation’s youth. Their needs stay hush-hush, covered up a lot in better con- Penner returned and thought, Why are we al- communities like ours. But the needs are still nect Sunday ways sending our young people to other countries here, even when you can’t see them.” or other communities to do mission? Why do we Though there is much need in communities, worship with always have to go to other places to do this stuff? ministries such as the shelter do stabilize lives and real needs of That question led Penner to realize he must help people again become contributing members practice his faith locally if he expected the wider of their communities, he says. For example, after a real people. church to do the same. So he began volunteering year of independent living, former residents may —Lee Penner with the homeless shelter a couple blocks from his volunteer at the shelter. After three and half years home. in operation, the shelter has a number of former “I became a team leader at the shelter, which residents who are now valuable volunteer staff. means that one week each quarter I engage peo- Penner and First Mennonite—along with other ple from my own congregation,” says Penner, a volunteers who are part of a broad ecumenical cir- cle that engages the shelter—are learning what it means to be wide-eyed and compassionate. Today’s economic meltdowns impact more than “I am passionate just what is traditionally thought of as the down- about making and-out, he says. God’s people understand they share a common humanity with those who have disciples. That scant resources to cope with tough times. passion was ignited “At our homeless shelter, we see a lot of women and families with kids who go to school in New- and imparted at EMS.” ton,” Penner says. “When you are eating supper with these families, all of a sudden stereotypes fall Nelson OkanyaOka , Associate Pastor Capital Christian Fellowship,Fe Lanham, Md. away. These are golden moments that put this all into perspective.” One of those moments came when the New Disciples Sunday school class from First Menno- nite showed up with a meal, and the kids of class 1200 Park Road members began to play with kids of the homeless Harrisonburg, VA 22802 mothers. (800) 710-7871 [email protected] “That’s about as good as it gets,” he says. emu.edu/seminary —Laurie Oswald Robinson

24 TheMennonite February 17,2009 Interest groups to meet in Paraguay I live in a pecial interest groups see the Mennonite World Conference (MWC) Assembly in S Paraguay in July as an opportunity to confer Greencroft with colleagues from around the world. Stuart Clark, senior policy advisor with the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, will lead planning for a Community series of four workshops on “Refinding our place in creation.” Albert C. Lobe, representing MWC, and Gerhard Pries, representing Mennonite Economic Development Associates, and two indi- viduals from the global South will assist in facilitat- “Whathat I like most about living here is theh freedom ing the 75-minute workshops July 15-18, with a andnd independence.ce. IInstead of wowworrying about half-day field trip to a MEDA Paraguay “green” project on July 17. doing mamaintenanceaint nce and yardd work,w rk I can volunteer, Another special interest group is Indigenous revisit hobhobbies,bbb make new friends and worship. People of the Americas. Some 35 Indigenous peo- Shouould I ever need assisted living or nursing care, I ple from western Canada, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and South Dakota, including seven have priority access. That gives me and my family young people and a few Mennonite Church Native peace of mind. Life in a continuing care retirement Ministries workers, expect to attend Assembly communitycomm is very satisfying. I should have done Gathered. Approximately 10 people from Latin American this yearsyeyeay a ago.” churches in Guatemala, Peru and Panama plan to attend, as do many Paraguayan indigenous Explore a campus today! Mennonites. The Indigenous People of the Americas will gather at the assembly site in Greencroft Goshen,Gosh Goshen, Ind. 574.537.4010 Asunción for workshops. Those from the Para- Located just behinbehindhi d Goshen College with access guayan Chaco plan to host the visitors from North to mmany activities and cultural events. America and Latin America who will travel to the Chaco after Assembly Gathered. Greencroft Middlebury, Middlebury, Ind. 574.825.6756 A few of the other special interests groups plan- Walnut Hills Retirement Community, ning meetings in connection with Assembly 15 are Walnut Creek, Ohio 330.893.3200 Latin American women theologians with some A unique combination of scenery, Amish culture African counterparts (July 13-14); theological edu- and commerce. Two true destination locations. cators (July 9-11 consultation); business and faith (July 12-13 consultation); Francophone Network, Southfi eld Village, South Bend, Ind. 574.807.8301301 former Mennonite Central Committee/PAX volun- Comfort and serenity of a countryside setting,eetting,in teers; physicians, mental health practitioners, in an urban environment. Mennonite historians, Associaçao Evangélica Menonita (Brazil) leaders, global Mennonite sec- Our mission ondary school representatives, various mission agencies and representatives of church-to-church In keeping with our Mennonite values and high standardsdard partnerships. of care, Greencroft Communities is committed to creatingeat The MWC officers, Executive Committee, dynamic communities that embrace the creativity, General Council, commissions, continental caucus- contributions and challenges of aging for all. es and the communication team will attend to the business of MWC. Numerous MWC-related groups will also meet, including the second MWC Live, Here. For the Best of Your Life. Global Youth Summit and the Global Mission Fellowship. These groups will convene before, during and after Assembly Gathered, July 14-19, outside www.greencroftcommunities.orggrereencroftcommunities.org morning and evening worship services.—Ferne Burkhardt of Mennonite World Conference ACTIVE COMMUNITIESOM NITIES FOR RESIDENTS 55 AND OLDER.OLDE

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 25 FOR THE RECORD

CALENDAR Harman, Grady Corbet, Dec. 26, 2008, to Swartz/Vandevander: Emily Swartz, Hans and Sarah Link Harman, Harrisonburg, Va., and Robert Benefit Walk will benefit No Longer Harrisonburg, Va. Vandevander, Harrisonburg, Jan. 24, at Alone Ministries (NLAM), March 7, at the Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. Landisville Mennonite Church, 3320 Kratz, Ethan Samuel, Jan. 20, to Erik and Bowman Road, Landisville, Pa. NLAM pro- Sarah Troyer Kratz, Harrisonburg, Va. vides supportive, caring services to indi- Miller, Finnly Raigan, Dec. 20, 2008, to DEATHS viduals experiencing significant mental ill- Mark and Ashley Sauder Miller, ness and their families in Lancaster Harrisonburg, Va. Abrahams, Norman E., 85, North County. To register and/or get more infor- Newton, Kan., died Jan. 8 in an automo- Miller, Katelynn Ruth, Jan. 22, to Keith bile accident. Spouse: Ethel Grace Ewert mation, contact: [email protected] or visit and Karen Callahan Miller, Louisville, Ohio. www.nlam.org. Abrahams. Parents: Cornelius and Anna Schrock, Anna Yoder, Jan. 31 to Jon and Dalke Abrahams. Children: Nan Abrahams Spring Scrapbook Retreat, March 6-8, Mandy Yoder Schrock, Goshen, Ind. Graber, Dwayne, Nadine Abrahams Epp; Camp Friedenswald, Cassopolis, Mich. six grandchildren; one great-grandchild. Go to www.friedenswald.org for more Simpson, Ian Robert Blough, Nov. 5, Funeral: Feb. 1 at Bethel College detailed information or call 269-476-9744. 2008, to John and Bethany Blough Mennonite Church, North Newton. Simpson, Denver, Colo. On March 14 Friends of Shirati, a Bachman, Aldine Elizabeth Metz, 89, “For the Record“ Lancaster, Pa., based nonprofit organiza- Wagler, Ava Nadine, Oct. 17, 2008, to lists obituaries for Hopedale, Ill., died Jan. 17 of natural caus- tion, will be having their 20th annual Curt and Lori Brown Wagler, Wayland, es. Spouse: David Bachman (deceased). Mennonite fund-raising banquet at the Gathering Iowa. Parents: Fred and Mary Koch Metz. Church USA Place in Mt. Joy, Pa. The money collected Wheeler, Andreas Francis, Oct. 17, 2008, Children: Roger David, Eunice Kay Harris, members who will support our projects of purchasing to Diek Wheeler and Greta Ann Herin, Marilyn Litwiller, Alice Ann Slager; 11 died during the medicines and medical supplies, purchas- Harrisonburg, Va. grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren. past three ing a new x-ray machine and resurfacing Funeral: Jan. 24 at Hopedale Mennonite Yoder, Valentina LaVerne Pimentel, Nov. months. the dirt airstrip. Reservations can be made Church. by calling 717-299-5998, or on 20, 2008, to Lawson and Mary Pimentel Additional infor- www.friendsofshirati.org. Yoder, Harrisonburg, Va. Baer, Lowell F., 96, Sterling, Ill., died Jan. mation about the 16. Spouse: Lee Gowan Baer. Spouse: deceased may be Maple Grove Mennonite Church, Dorothy Musgrave Baer (deceased). submitted to Atglen, Pa., will hold a 100th Anniversary Parents: Lloyd and Bertha Hinz Baer. Celebration on Aug. 16. The all-day serv- MARRIAGES The Mennonite at Children: Barbara Ebersole, Judith Long, ice will include a “reproduction” of a 1909 Brubaker/Horst: Jessica Brubaker, South Beth Shank, Dorothy Ulrich, Lila Miller, www.TheMennon morning service (period attire optional), Bend, Ind., and Dan Horst, Goshen, Ind., ite.org. We will Judith Repass, June Sullivan; 18 grandchil- displays, drama, testimonies and ending Jan. 10, at Reith Recital Hall, Goshen. dren; six step-grandchildren; numerous forward all infor- with a “Parade of Music” from German Claassen/Froese: Rebecca Claassen, great-grandchildren. Funeral: Jan. 22 at mation to hymns to the current worship group. Moses Lake, Wash., and Beau Froese, Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling. MennObits, the Everyone is welcome. Contact Pastor Inman, Kan., Dec. 27, 2008, at Menno research Web site Steve Crane, [email protected], for Bender, Rose M. Yoder, 92, Kalona, Iowa, Mennonite Church, Ritzville, Wash. died Jan. 22. Spouse: Gerald Bender sponsored by more information. Martinez/Smucker: Jerome Martinez, (deceased). Parents: Mose F. and Hannah the Historical Quarryville, Pa., and Lindsay Smucker, Graber Yoder. Children: Marlene Ropp, Committee of WORKERS Goshen, Ind., Jan. 3, at College Mennonite Ruby Miller, Dale Schrock, Delbert Mennonite Church, Goshen. Schrock; 24 grandchildren; two great- Church USA. To Banks, Otis M. Jr., pastor at Diamond grandchildren. Funeral: Jan. 26 at Kalona receive a paper Street Mennonite Church, Philadelphia, Mennonite Church. copy of the obitu- Pa., retired Dec. 31, 2008. ary form, call 574- Beyer, E. Eugene, associate pastor at 535-6052. To Millport Mennonite Church, Lititz, Pa., receive the obitu- retired Dec. 31, 2008. ary form as an Eberly, Harold B., deacon at MS Word docu- Bowmansville Mennonite Church, ment, email Bowmansville, Pa., retired Dec. 31, 2008. Editor@themen- Good, John W., deacon at Strasburg nonite.org. Mennonite Church, Strasburg, Pa., retired Dec. 31, 2008. Landis, Paul S., transferred his credential from Lancaster Mennonite Conference to Koinonia Fellowship on Dec. 17, 2008. Wendland, Wolfgang K., transferred his credential from Lancaster Mennonite Conference to Church of the Brethren-SE District on Dec. 17, 2008.

BIRTHS & ADOPTIONS Blackburn, Madalyn Shade, Dec. 1, 2008, to Mike and Jane Musser Blackburn, Port Republic, Va. Gering, Emerson Jon, Dec. 30, 2008, to Jon and Deborah Ediger Gering, Kirksville, 800.222.6695 www.mennohaven.org Mo. Menno Haven is committed to providing equal housing for all.

26 TheMennonite February 17,2009 FOR THE RECORD

Bixler, Paul E., 71, Saginaw, Mich., died Hertzler, Emanuel C., 92, Granger, Ind., Dec. 12, 2008, of a stroke. Spouse: died Jan. 28. Spouse: Myrtle Schnell Lavonne Gisel Bixler. Parents: Reuben and Hertzler (deceased). Parents: Aldus and Elma Nussbaum Bixler. Children: Reginald, Ellen Kratz Hertzler. Children: Barbara Roderick, Regina Walczak; five grandchil- Cassel Martin, Linda L. Peirard, Suzanne dren; one great-grandchild. Funeral: Dec. Scarsella; four grandchildren; three step- Group 16 at Our Redeemer Evangelical Church, grandchildren. Funeral: Jan. 31 at Kern Midland, Mich. Road Mennonite Church, South Bend, Ind. Denlinger, Anna Martha Groff, 82, East Judy, Richard M., Jr., 56, Canfield, Ohio, Petersburg, Pa., died Jan. 18 of cancer. died Jan. 10 of a pulmonary embolism. Spouse: Clifford E. Denlinger. Parents: Parents: Richard M., Sr., and Lorraine savings Abram and Miriam Metzler Groff. Children: Sweringen Judy. Funeral: Jan. 15 at Charmayne Brubaker, Philip, Bethany Midway Mennonite Church, Columbiana, Denlinger, Steven; six grandchildren. Ohio. Funeral: Jan. 22 at East Petersburg Krabill, Willard Stanley, 82, Goshen, Ind., Mennonite Church. died Jan. 6 of cancer. Spouse: Grace Ellen Gautsche, Richard “Dick” E., 75, Hershberger Krabill. Parents: Mahlon and Lexington, Ky., died Jan. 3. Spouse: Eunice Ella Conrad Krabill. Children: Merrill, Zook Little Gautsche. Parents: Oscar and Jeannie Miller, Karen Krabill, Ron; nine Herma Noffziger Gautsche. Children: grandchildren. Funeral: Jan. 9 at College Nancy Gautsche, Gary Gautsche, Randy Mennonite Church, Goshen. Gautsche, James Little, David Little, Amy Lapp, Lucy N. Miller, 86, Parkesburg, Pa., Swartzentruber; eight grandchildren. died Dec. 16, 2008 of congestive heart fail- Memorial service: Jan. 11 at First United ure. Spouse: Leroy S. Lapp (deceased). Methodist Church, Lexington. Memorial Parents: Nathaniel P. and Mary J. Miller service to be held later at Belmont Miller. Children: Mary Etta King, Mel M., Mennonite Church, Elkhart, Ind. Jay, Carl R.; 12 grandchildren; 11 great- Gehman, Irene L., 62, Gilbertsville, Pa., grandchildren. Funeral: Dec. 30 at Calvary died Nov. 4, 2008. Parents: Melvin S. and Monument Bible Church, Paradise, Pa. Sara L. Brubaker Gehman. Funeral: Nov. 10 Lapp, Marian F. Trimble, 87, Sterling, Ill., at Bally Mennonite Church, Bally, Pa. died Jan. 31. Spouse: James Lapp Gerber, Clarence, 90, Dalton, Ohio, died (deceased). Parents: Harry and Bessie Jan. 5 following a period of declining Frank Trimble. Children: Dale, Vonda health. Spouse: Lydia Steiner Gerber James, Nancy Hunphrey; nine grandchil- (deceased). Parents: Menno and Anna dren; 22 great-grandchildren. Funeral: Feb. Moser Gerber. Funeral: Jan. 17 at Kidron 4 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Mennonite Church, Kidron, Ohio. Sterling. Graber, Fern Irene Klopfenstein, 90, Leichty, Leonard John, 85, Leo, Ind., died Goshen, Ind., died Dec. 22, 2008. Spouse: Jan. 6. Spouse: Carolyn Hartzler Leichty. Dillon Joseph Graber (deceased). Parents: Parents: Daniel and Alma Yoder Leichty. James and Mabel Eicher Klopfenstein. Children: Phillip, LaMar; five grandchil- Children: Charlotte Rosenberger, Janet dren. Funeral: Jan. 11 at North Leo Gerber, Connie Marner; nine grandchil- Mennonite Church, Leo, Ind. dren; eight great-grandchildren. Funeral: www.TheMennonite.org Jan. 24 at College Mennonite Church. 800-790-2498. Growing and Eating Faithfully: Sustaining Communities Mennonite Camps in the US and Canada will offer programs for farmers, home gardeners, churches, and consumers throughout the months of March and April, 2009

Crooked Creek Camp March 6-7 crookedcreekcamp.org Amigo Centre March 20-22 amigocentre.org Camp Mennoscah March 21-22 mennowdc.org/Camp.html Camps with Meaning March 27-29 campswithmeaning.org Camp Deerpark April 24 - 26 campdeerpark.org

sponsored by Mennonite Creation Care Network

February 17,2009 TheMennonite 27 FOR THE RECORD

Mast, Sara “Edna” Mast, 96, Cochranville, Nafziger, Marvin J., 75, Archbold, Ohio, Summers, Leon M., 89, Gap, Pa., died Jan. Pa., died Jan. 11 of coronary artery dis- died Jan. 25. Spouse: Vicki Mack Frank 12 of CVA. Spouse: Ida Arment Stoltzfus ease. Spouse: Alvin Isaac Mast (deceased). Nafziger. Parents: Harry J. and Rosa Short Summers. Spouse: Ida Petersheim Parents: Samuel and Emma King Mast. Nafziger. Children: Greg Nafziger, Dave Summers (deceased). Parents: Samuel and Children: Vernon A., Dale J., Larry D., Verda Nafziger, Julie Ruffer, Joe Frank, Jeff Frank; Rachel Summers. Children: Leon, Jr., R. Geib, Anna M. Bishop; 11 grandchildren; four grandchildren; 10 step grandchildren; Nevin, Cathy Miller, Nancy Summers; step- 21 great-grandchildren. Funeral: Jan. 15 at four step-great-grandchildren. Funeral: children: Steve Stoltzfus, Galen Stoltzfus, Maple Grove Mennonite Church, Atglen, Jan. 29 at Zion Mennonite Church, Anna Mary Boettger, Jean Hoover, Rosella Pa. Archbold. Coblentz; many grandchildren, great- grandchildren, step-grandchildren, step- Mierau, Lucille Culp, 85, Goshen, Ind. and Rhodes, Charles Lindamood, 85, Tucson, Ariz., died Jan. 3 of injuries sus- Broadway, Va., died Jan. 26. Spouse: Janet great-grandchildren, foster grandchildren tained in a fall. Spouse: Jacob Mierau Dove Rhodes. Parents: Robert Neff and foster great-grandchildren. Funeral: (deceased). Spouse: Earl Culp (deceased). Rhodes, Sr., and Mattie Lindamood Jan. 16 at Hinkletown Mennonite Church, Children: Judith E. Culp, Dennis Culp; Rhodes. Funeral: Jan. 29 at Zion Ephrata, Pa. three grandchildren; one great-grand- Mennonite Church, Broadway. Weaver, Clarence L., 71, Ephrata, Pa., died child. Burial: Jan. 10 in Phoenix, Ariz. Jan. 23. Spouse: Rhoda J. Martin Weaver. Rohr, Robert C., 74, Camp Hill, Pa., died Memorial Service: Jan. 17 at Silverwood Oct. 20, 2008, during knee replacement Parents: Noah B. and Anna W. Sauder Mennonite Church, Goshen. surgery. Spouse: M. Lois Beyer Rohr. Weaver. Children: Bruce A., Carol L. Martin, Doris A. Kurtz, Linda J. Ulrich; seven grand- Miller, Ella May Weaver, 93, Parents: Samuel M. and Emma Cassel Harrisonburg, Va., died Oct. 26, 2008. Rohr. Children: Sandra Shamansky, Robert children. Funeral: Jan. 27 at Ephrata Spouse: Samuel E. Miller (deceased). L., Jeffrey L.; six grandchildren. Funeral: Mennonite Church. Parents: Reuben M. and Ella Neuhauser Oct. 28 at Slate Hill Mennonite Church, Weaver. Children: S. Ernest, John, Martin, Camp Hill. Jeanne Troyer; 12 grandchildren; six great- Stoltzfus, Ruth Wenger Brunk, 93, grandchildren. Funeral: Oct. 29 at Park Harrisonburg, Va., died Dec. 2, 2008. View Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg. Spouse: Grant M. Stoltzfus (deceased). Parents: George R. and Katie Wenger Brunk. Children: Eugene, Kathryn Stoltzfus Fairfield, Ruth Stoltzfus Jost, Helen Stoltzfus; 12 grandchildren; 11 great- grandchildren. Funeral: Dec. 6 at Park View Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg.

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28 TheMennonite February 17,2009 CLASSIFIED

Camp Deerpark is seeking to fill the positions of construction Mountville Mennonite Church (Lancaster Mennonite assistant and food service assistant. Salaried positions with ben- Conference) seeking full-time associate pastor for youth min- efits, including housing and insurance. Camp Deerpark is a min- istry with training or experience in youth ministry and disciple- istry of the New York City Mennonite Churches. Contact Ken ship, commitment to Anabaptist core values and passion for Advertising space Bontrager at 845-754-8669 or [email protected]. reaching unchurched youth. Starting summer 2009. Applications in The Mennonite requested by March 1. Contact: Jim Herr [email protected]; 717- MCC Washington Office Spring Seminar in Wichita, Kan., March is available to 28-30. Learn about the global food crisis; its causes and some 285-2153. congregations, solutions, worship and speakers: mcc.org/us/washington or 202- The Mennonite Heritage Cruise and its international resource conferences, 544-6564. team invites you to join the 15th annual cruise in Ukraine on the businesses and in late September 2009. This has Hesston College seeks applicants for a head women’s softball Dnieper River and Black Sea churchwide been the ultimate 15-day roots discovery experience for 2,500 coach. As a part of the Athletic Department, the person in this boards and part-time position will be responsible for all aspects of the soft- descendants of Russian Mennonites and others. For details of the agencies of cruise Google “Mennonite Heritage Cruise” or phone Marina ball program, including recruiting, scheduling, managing a budg- Mennonite Unger 800-387-1488, ext. 2827. et, travel arrangements, etc. Qualifications include experience and Church USA. knowledge of fastpitch softball, the ability to teach the skills and Swamp Mennonite Church, www.swampmennonite.org, seeks a Cost for one-time strategy of the game to college student-athletes, recruiting skills, passionate full-time senior pastor to focus on preaching, pastoral classified place- love for students and commitment to Mennonite higher educa- care and equipping leaders. SMC is a Christ-centered, welcoming ment is $1.30 per tion. This position will be open with duties commencing August church (regular attendance of 140) that is a fellowship of believers 2009. Review of applications begins immediately and continues committed to serving our community, living in peace and mak- word, minimum until the position is filled. To apply, send resumé, application and ing Anabaptist-Mennonite faith and worship relevant in the of $30. Display faith statement as found at www.hesston.edu/employment to Art Quakertown, Pa., area. Seminary training is required. Interested space is also Mullet, Athletic Director, Box 3000, Hesston, KS 67062. EOE people should email the Lead Pastor Search Committee at available. To place [email protected]. Whitestone Mennonite Church, Hesston, Kan., is seeking a full- an ad in The time lead pastor. Contact Elam Peachey by email: [email protected]; Mennonite, call phone 620-217-8149. 800-790-2498 and ask for Part-time conference minister for New York Mennonite Conference beginning immediately. Conference profile available: Rebecca Helmuth, http://nymennon.bfn.org/. MLI required. Contact Dale Beebee or email [email protected]; 585-593-5598. Applications accepted Advertising@The through February 2009. Mennonite.org.

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February 17,2009 TheMennonite 29 MEDIACULTURE

A YouTube presidency

he election of Barack Obama, now the first For example, Obama has used such media for African-American president of the United his weekly address to the nation. Under previous T States, marks many firsts, many changes in presidents, such a speech was recorded and our nation’s history. But one change perhaps over- released to radio stations on Saturday mornings. looked is the expanded use of the Internet and Obama records a video, and on Saturday it is post- social media to reach a greater number of people ed on the White House Web site and on YouTube. than previously, particularly younger voters. Macon Phillips, the “new media” director for Obama’s campaign proved revolutionary and Obama’s administration, says: “Historically the effective in its use of social media such as media has been able to draw out a lot of informa- Facebook, instant messaging, Twitter and tion and characterize it for people. And there’s a YouTube. The idea behind social media is to cre- growing appetite from people to do it themselves.” ate and encourage a community of users commu- News media advocates have expressed concern nicating with each other. about this approach. They are uncomfortable with Now that he’s president, his staff is working to “what effectively could become an informational use this same media to promote broad changes in network reaching 13 million people, or more, with Gordon Houser health care and environmental and fiscal policy, an unchallenged, governmental point of view,” according to an article by Jim Rutenberg and write Rutenberg and Nagourney. This article is Adam Nagourney in the Jan. 26 New York Times. “They’re beginning to create their own journal- available as a This marks a change in strategy for getting ism, their own description of events of the day, but podcast at one’s agenda to the public. “Like George W. Bush it’s not an independent voice making that descrip- www.The before him, Mr. Obama is trying to bypass the tion,” says Bill Kovach, the chairman of the Mennonite.org mainstream news media and take messages Committee of Concerned Journalists. “It’s trouble- straight to the public,” write Rutenberg and some until we know how it’s going to be used and Nagourney. the degree to which it can be used on behalf of the people, and not on behalf of only one point of view.” BEST FILMS OF 2008 BEST BOOKS OF 2008 What does this change mean for the rest of us? Gordon Houser: 2666: A Novel by Roberto Bolaño That may depend upon our own use of such 1. 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days Home: A Novel by Marilynne media. But it shouldn’t change how we should 2. The Visitor Robinson always approach what we read or hear or see. We 3. Happy-Go-Lucky How Fiction Works by James Wood need to approach all messages (including this one) with a critical sense. If we are interested in 4. The Edge of Heaven The Plague of Doves: A Novel by Louise Erdrich more than simply reinforcing our own opinions, 5. Wall-E The Purple Crown: The Politics of we should check a variety of sources. 6. Encounters at the End of the World Martyrdom by Tripp York Another lesson for the church is to learn about 7. Frost/Nixon social media and explore ways to use it in reaching 8. Man on Wire BOOKS people otherwise unknown to us. Behind social 9. Milk Cynicism and Hope: Reclaiming media lies an emphasis on community. But in this case community is often virtual—via the Internet 10. Slumdog Millionaire Discipleship in a Postdemocratic Society, edited by Meg E. Cox rather than face to face. Such community is much Anna Groff: (Cascade Books, 2009, $17), includes more a part of people under 30, say, than over 30. 1. Milk presentations at a conference at Reba But that may be changing. Place Church, Evanston, Ill., in 2007. 2. The Visitor Inspired by an address Mennonite Interestingly, behind Obama’s use of social 3. The Edge of Heaven Peter Dula gave at a Christian peace media in his campaign and now in his new strate- 4. Happy-Go-Lucky witness for Iraq, the essays here gy is the hope that it leads to face-to-face commu- address the dual topic from various nication (or at least texting). And word of mouth, 5. The Curious Case of Benjamin angles. Dale Suderman’s “Cynicism as as advertisers know, is an effective means of Button Therapy” writes, “Our problem may spreading information and ideas. 6. Vicky Christina Barcelona not be cynicism so much as unfettered and unexamined idealisms.”The Can the church learn to use such media in 7. Slumdog Millionaire essays vary in quality, but readers will spreading the good news of Jesus Christ? Parts of 8. Wall-E find numerous insights. The book con- the church are doing just that, some more effec- 9. Rachel Getting Married cludes with a powerful poem by Ruth tively than others. It seems at least worth explor- Goring called “Ingredients.” 10. Doubt ing. The times are changing. TM

30 TheMennonite February 17,2009 February 17,2009 TheMennonite 31 EDITORIAL

Damaged vets need healing

he article “Wounds of War” by Carolyn in small cities and suburbia. This, along with Holderread Heggen (July 8, 2008) called on increased levels of education and professionalism, T Mennonite congregations to “welcome com- gives us additional resources. bat veterans … suffering terrors of the soul.” Heggen, a psychotherapist who specializes in We received little response to this call, and I trauma recovery, offered to assist Mennonite con- have been curious whether any congregations are gregations wishing to help those paralyzed with focusing in new ways on this national shame. shame by their combat experiences. When I visited Chicago recently, an article in the “Our society never successfully addressed the Everett J. Thomas Chicago Tribune Magazine reminded me of mental health problems of many of our Vietnam Heggen’s plea. veterans,” Heggen wrote in her article. “If you The article, entitled “Relief Efforts,” describes doubt this, visit a homeless shelter or talk to men the 20-year-old Homeless Sandwich Run coordinat- living on our streets. Some mental health profes- ed by Vietnam War veterans and other volunteers. sionals now speak of a ‘tsunami of mental health They start their run about noon every Sunday and problems’ facing us as more and more traumatized serve 1,300 sandwiches to some 800 homeless veterans return from Iraq and Afghanistan.” people in the center city. In this recessionary economy there are needs “It’s getting bigger every year,” said one volun- everywhere. And there are homeless people other teer, who has been making the run for five years. than former combat veterans. But as a peace “Mostly there are a lot of Nam guys out there church we are uniquely positioned to address the homeless. But we’re seeing more and more guys wounds of war manifest in our midst. Doing so will from Iraq and Afghanistan. Kids come home. help us move from “passivism” to a healing paci- There are no jobs. They’ve been deployed too fism. It would illustrate—to others as well as our many times. They’re disenchanted. Messed up in children—that peacemaking is action rather than the head. Drug issues. Mental issues. Suicide. It’s quietude. a shame.” Only communities of faith have the language Some ambitious and savvy young Mennonites and understandings to address the core spiritual addressed another national shame nearly 60 years residue of war, Heggen said as she described the spiritual hell into which many veterans believe they have eternally cast themselves. It is the A missional church discerns where God is at work in the world church that understands confession and forgive- and then joins in that work. ness, grace and mercy, transformation and conver- sion, Heggen said and then asked, “Can we learn how to apply these gospel truths and extend our ago: the treatment of the mentally ill in asylums hands of welcoming compassion to spiritually dam- and hospital wards. They helped galvanize national aged veterans and their loved ones?” interest. It brought a sea change to attitudes about This call is too important to fade into memories mental illness and treatment. of good ideas. We hear again and again from Where among us now might be another such Mennonite Church USA leaders that a missional group of energized young Mennonites ready to church discerns where God is working in the spark a similar phenomenon today? world and then joins in that work. This article is available as a Unlike the 1940s, when most Mennonites lived God is at work through such programs as the podcast at on farms and in rural areas, we are assimilated Homeless Sandwich Run and countless other www.The into our culture and increasingly comfortable efforts with emotionally wounded combat veter- Mennonite.org addressing public policy issues. Although only 10 ans. Those of us who live near such ministries can percent of us live in big cities, according to a 2006 join in what God is doing. In doing so we incarnate profile of Mennonite Church USA, most of us live the gospel.—ejt

32 TheMennonite February 17,2009