RECORDER. Th e. eflections enewal evival. September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

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1 Th e RECORDER September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5 R eflections enewal evival Evangelical Mennonite e Mission Conference September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 1

2 Prayer Opportunities and Coming Events Dates to Remember EMMC General Board / Council Meetings Saskatoon, SK November 23, 24 & 25, 2017 World Fellowship Sunday Mennonite World Conference Any Sunday in January 2018 Missionfest February 2 to 4, 2018 Church of the Rock, Winnipeg, MB SBC Leadership Conference March 16 & 17, EMMC Youth Leader Retreat March 23 to 25, 2018 Red Rock Bible Camp, MB Palm Sunday March 24, 2018 Good Friday March 30, 2018 Easter Sunday April 1, 2018 On the cover Recorder Deadlines November 15, 2017 November / December issue Send Recorder-related information to recorder@emmc.ca Ah - the little red wagon! What that four-wheeled wonder could become. It was the racecar, shuttle for the dolls to the teaparty, transportation for the dog, grocery delivery vehicle and all-important part of the route for the newspaper delivery person. It could be pushed, pulled, or dragged - loaded or empty. One vehicle with many functions. What stories can you tell about your little red wagon? Did you know new info for EMMC Home Office: info@emmc.ca Lyn Dyck, Executive Director lynd@emmc.ca Abe Giesbrecht, Missions Facilitator abeg@emmc.ca Lil Goertzen, Communications Coordinator lilg@emmc.ca Allen Kehler, Conference Pastor allen.kehler@gmail.com Jonathan Schmidt, Admin Assistant info@emmc.ca Terry Terichow, Director of Finance terryt@emmc.ca Recorder related items recorder@emmc.ca Education & Training education@emmc.ca EMMC Website photo: Designpics The RECORDER is published bi-monthly by the Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference. As a vehicle of communication within the Conference, it strives to keep members of the EMMC informed about congregational life within the family of churches, to inspire interest and commitment to world missions, to facilitate dialogue on relevant faith and life issues, to stimulate spiritual growth, to communicate EMMC visions, to contribute toward a sense of Christian community and fellowship within the conference, and to inform members of major events and developments within the larger Anabaptist community and the greater Christian world beyond our borders. However, opinions expressed in The Recorder are not necessarily those of the Conference as a whole. Letters, articles and photos are welcomed but The Recorder will only publish materials considered edifying to readers and reserves editorial rights to improve communication and adjust the length of submissions. All submissions, including photos will be retained by The Recorder unless a return is specifically requested. Due to space and sizing restrictions, The Recorder no longer publishes Baby Dedication photos. The Recorder is sent free of charge to all EMMC members who request it, as well as other persons interested in receiving it. A full version of each current issue is available in PDF on our website at. The Recorder is a member of Meetinghouse, a consortium of editors from North American Anabaptist periodicals. Deadline for The Recorder November / December 2017 issue is November 15, Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: The Recorder, EMMC Home Office 757 St. Anne s Road Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R2N 4G6 Phone: Fax: recorder@emmc.ca for Recorder related information website: Publication Mail Registration #1050 Publication Mail Agreement # Editor: Lil Goertzen Printed by: Derksen Printer, Steinbach Manitoba Lil Goertzen, Editor Are you receiving the The Recorder through the mail? Is it arriving at the correct mailing address? We don t want you to miss a single issue of our bi-monthly publication! Let us know of address changes and corrections so we can do our part to make sure the mail gets to you! If you know of someone who would like to receive a copy of The Recorder at their home, we ll gladly add them to our list! Just let us know. EMMC Home Office mailing address and street address 757 St. Anne s Road Winnipeg, Manitoba R2N 4G6 CANADA (located in the Morrow Gospel Church building) ph: fax: info@emmc.ca Visitors are always welcome! 2 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

3 Table of Contents Articles 4 Why should Anabaptists care about Martin Luther? Conference News 6 Reflections, Renewal, Revival 8 Aiming towards a clear goal Churches, Mission and Ministry 12 Window on the Regions 16 Ministries and workers Dave and Cheri Bartsch Scott and Patsy Buhler John and Song Ja Gerbrandt Gordon and Beckie Klassen Lori and Dan Neufeld Arlie and Eva Peters Carl and Pat Whitehead Tami Zacharias 27 In Search Of... Partnerships and Connections 10 Plautdietsche Medienkonferenz 22 MCC Around the World 24 Canadian Foodgrains Bank Hurricane Irma impact 25 Providence redevelopment 26 Abundant Living: Contagious Generosity EMMC Churches Region 1 Alberta / Saskatchewan Hague Gospel Church Hepburn Gospel Church Mennonite Gospel Church, Vauxhall AB Sutherland Evangelical Church, Saskatoon Warman Gospel Church Wynyard Gospel Church Region 2 Manitoba Central Austin Evangelical Fellowship Bagot Community Chapel Gospel Fellowship Church, Steinbach Lakeside Gospel Chapel, St. Laurent Morrow Gospel Church, Winnipeg Nassau Street Church, Winnipeg Niverville Community Fellowship Region 3 Manitoba South Altona EMM Church Bergfeld Mennonite Church Glencross Mennonite Church Gospel Mission Church, Winkler Morden EMM Church Winkler EMM Church Region 4 Ontario Aylmer EMMC Blenheim EMMC Deer Run Church, Leamington Region 6 Belize / Mexico South Blue Creek EMMC, Belize Colonia Del Valle EMMC, Mexico Gospel Fellowship Chapel, Shipyard Belize Hopelchen EMMC, Mexico Spanish Lookout EMMC, Belize Did you know Back in 1958, a little booklet entitled Die Entstenhung der Rudnerweider Gemeinde 1936 was written. It detailed the start of the Rudnerweider Gemeinde, which later became Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference. This booklet has been translated from High German into English. A PDF of this translation is available on the EMMC website at emmc.ca. Look for The Beginning of the Rudnerweide Gemeinde It is a valuable piece of history and information. Stop by the EMMC Home Office and pick up copies for your church. They are FREE! A very special thank you to Ed Zacharias for his work on translating this project. ~ Lil Goertzen, Editor September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 3

4 Why should Anabaptists care about Martin Luther? is the 500 th anniversary of Martin Luther posting 95 theses on the doors of the churches in the city of Wittenberg, Germany, including the All Saints Church. What Luther intended as a debate over how to reform abuses in the Roman Catholic Church resulted in the break-up of the Catholic Church and the start of the Protestant Reformation. Why should Anabaptist Mennonites care about Martin Luther, a young university professor, and his reforms? Why should this anniversary be noted in Mennonite denominational papers? The principal reason why Mennonites should care about Luther s reform is that Luther is the reason why there was an Anabaptist Mennonite reform movement at all. Luther s reforms, and the conflicts they spawned between Catholics and Protestants, created space for the Anabaptist movement to take root. They sprang up in German states, northern Switzerland, Moravia, and the Netherlands. Without Luther, and the other reformers who followed his lead, there would have been no Anabaptist movements. Mennonites should also care about Luther s reform because the early Anabaptist leaders were inspired by Luther s key ideas. Luther s reform began as a critique of the Catholic Church selling indulgences. In response Luther formulated his central view that salvation is by grace, that is, a gift from God, and not by works. The Bible, not tradition When challenged about how he could make such a claim since it deviated from the beliefs of most of the great teachers of the medieval church, Luther said his authority was the Bible, not tradition. Specifically, he based his view of grace on the Apostle Paul s letters to the Romans and Galatians. It was the Bible alone, Luther said, on which he based his view that salvation is by faith through grace. 4 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

5 Following this claim, Luther decided to make the Bible available to the masses by translating it into the German language. Widespread distribution was made possible by the newly invented moveable type printing presses. Access to the Bible allowed people to read scripture for themselves, and to implement reforms that they believed were consistent with scripture. Luther also rejected the control that the Catholic priesthood had over access to forgiveness. Luther believed that all believers had direct access to God no priestly mediation was necessary. Luther called this the priesthood of all believers. All these emphases Anabaptists applauded. Even though at first Luther seemed to empower common people, he also spoke highly of the role German princes should play in any reform. When the peasants revolted in the years , Luther condemned them harshly. He cast his lot with the princes and adopted the state-church model for his reform. Luther looked to the German princes both for protection and direction. This decision set Luther and the Anabaptists against other. A life of Christian discipleship Anabaptists believed that Luther s reform ideas should have resulted in a believers church. Such a church would have consisted of those who truly had faith in God and had committed themselves to a life of Christian discipleship. This option would have resulted in a church that was a minority in the population. Accepting a believers church would have resulted in a pluralist society, in which minority church groups were tolerated. When Luther opted for the state-church model, placed the Lutheran church under the authority of the state, and persecuted minority churches, Anabaptists believed that Luther had betrayed the teachings of the Bible. This commitment to a believers church allowed Anabaptists to reshape basic Christian beliefs and practices. Anabaptists emphasized baptism on the basis of adult confessions of faith, instead of infant baptism. Church leaders were chosen from within the community of believers instead of being appointed by church hierarchies, or by state officials. Reforms were based on the church community s reading of scripture, rather than on the basis of what was politically expedient and approved by princes. Church discipline and social shunning replaced trials and executions of those with whom they disagreed. For worship, Anabaptists gathered in houses, barns and caves to read scripture together. They discussed biblical texts and discerned together, under the leading of the Holy Spirit, how to apply them to daily living. They sang songs composed They [Anabaptists]advocated a life of peace, rejected violence, refused to carry swords, forgave those who wronged them, and reconciled conflicts between members of the church. by their own members based on experiences of persecution and martyrdom. No more majestic cathedrals, chants, organs, monastic choirs, and elaborate liturgies where members were largely spectators. They rejected feudal oaths since their primary loyalty was to God and not to princes and emperors. They advocated a life of peace, rejected violence, refused to carry swords, forgave those who wronged them, and reconciled conflicts between members of the church. John J. Friesen is Professor Emeritus of Canadian Mennonite University. He and his wife Dorothy are members of Fort Garry Mennonite Fellowship in Winnipeg Manitoba. They have three married children and six grandchildren. Break between Luther and Anabaptists One cannot imagine the Anabaptist movement without Luther s reforms. And yet, the direction that Luther s reforms took resulted in Luther becoming one the Anabaptists bitterest enemies. Even the Augsburg Confession of 1530, the basic Lutheran confession, included the following among a number of condemnations: We condemn Anabaptists who forbid Christians to hold office, and We condemn Anabaptists who reject the baptizing of children, and say that children are saved without baptism. Most Lutheran states crushed Anabaptist groups within their borders. This sharp break between Luther and the Anabaptists, however, is not the end of the story of Luther s influence on Anabaptist Mennonites. In the late seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the Lutheran Church spawned a Pietist movement, which has in many ways positively influenced Mennonites. Pietism emphasized Bible reading by laity, a warm devotional life, an experience of conversion and personal commitment to God, a life of discipleship, and an extensive hymnody. Pietists drew upon the early emphases of Luther, and thus in many respects, were close to the emphases of the sixteenth century Anabaptist movement. Martin Luther and his followers have had a powerful shaping influence on Anabaptist Mennonites, then and now. It is appropriate to remember Luther and the significant contributions he made to all denominations of the Christian Church, including the Anabaptist Mennonites. Luther was a giant in his age and will always be honoured for the major impact he made. This article was commissioned by Meetinghouse Gathering an association of Mennonite periodicals. September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 5

6 Reflections, Renewal, Revival Mommy.can you tell my story? Our kids have enjoyed having us tell their story of how they came to be part of our family. They listen intently as Jennifer lovingly tells them how they came to be. Our kids have their birth stories, and our foster kids have their gotcha stories. It s important foundational. Why? Stories connect the past and present to the future, helping us understand how we began, and appreciate who we are. Our Story The 1930 s on the Canadian prairies was tough. The Great Depression, the stock market crash, 30 per cent unemployment and a severe drought causing the prairies to be described as a dust bowl caused life to be very difficult for many of our forefathers. Many of these people had migrated to Canada in search of a better life, only to be met with more hardship. The people began to ask is there something more? Changes came. The drought was coming to an end. During this time, a spiritual awakening was happening, as a renewal movement began to stir on the prairies. Four young Sommerfelder ministers were touched by this movement and desired to see an awakening of their churches. God was at work, and the Holy Spirit was stirring these men. They had come to know Jesus in a new and intimate way and found that they could not contain what they were experiencing. They began to witness boldly of what they had seen and heard. These four men were Wilhelm H. Falk, Peter S. Zacharias, Gerhard J. Froese and Isaac Hoeppner. These men, gripped by the Holy Spirit began to preach with a new urgency. Requests were coming from all directions to serve at weddings, funerals, and other services. They threw themselves into the work electrified by the Holy Spirit. They counselled the young, and challenged their older brothers and sisters to a deeper walk with God, and shared boldly of their love for God, letting people know Jesus had come to seek and save the lost. They preached that people could have a certainty of a relationship with Jesus. But soon they were being singled out. The leadership began to oppose them, telling them this was to stop, classifying them as whoremongers and false prophets. Can you imagine how disheartened Falk these four young ministers would have been! Men they had looked up to, and been mentored by did not understand, did not see what God was revealing to them. But these young men couldn t stop. They continued to preach the Word, and spread the Gospel in the hopes that they too would understand. It was a short time later that these four were asked to separate, to leave the gemeinde or fellowship. This deeply saddened and distressed these Hoeppner pner men. Their hope and prayer was for change within the leadership and the people. But now there was a heavy weight upon them. Shortly after that meeting, 1200 members and 1600 dependents left to go with them the young ministers. So not only were they separated from the larger body, but now many others separated as well. This was dividing families, separating friendships. Suddenly these 4 young innovators were fully responsible to provide direction and pastoral care for all these people. This they had not asked for. They were just following the Holy Spirit s leading, and preaching and sharing the Good News. The burden was nearly too large to bear. One must remember these men were still trying to manage farms and families at the same time. It was under this burden these men spent hours at a time on their knees in prayer. 6 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

7 In November 1936 these men, with Rev. Wilhelm H. Falk in the lead, gathered those interested together to discuss a new church; one that should be founded and develop its aims totally on Scripture; one whose goal of all activities should be to win souls for Christ and lead them in their spiritual growth. In January 1937, Rev. Falk was elected as bishop and this newly formed church was called the Rudnerweider Mennonite Gemeinde, which was later changed to the Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference in That is how we began, some 80 years ago. God was at work. The Holy Spirit was stirring and our denomination was born. At The Gathering 2017 we had had the opportunity to celebrate these beginnings, as well as the ongoing ministries and the mission of the EMMC. This past year we embarked on a new 5 Year Plan for our conference. It is a plan that is very much in keeping with the intent of our early beginnings. It is a plan that is calling us to a renewed obedience and response to Jesus exhortation to Make Disciples in Matthew 28: I am reminded of the passage in Joshua 4 where God had caused Froese the Jordan River to part and Joshua gathered a member from each of the 12 tribes of Israel together and told them to bring stones from the river to create a memorial, so that in years to come people could remember and tell the story. As we reflected on our story, let s remember to not only tell it, but understand it. We were born out of revival, a spiritual awakening! Four young men who couldn t stop doing what God had called them to do! People tried to stop them, but they continued. This is our story, this is our FOUNDATION. God called them, they sacrificed and toiled to plant the seeds of the Gospel,which today we are able to reap. As we move into the next 80 years, what will be our story? What will be our story of revival and renewal? Is the Holy Spirit moving? Is the Word of God creating a stirring in you, causing a transformation from the inside out, calling you to share of the love and overwhelming grace of Jesus, moving you to share the gospel, and live it in your family, your church your community? The world we live in is challenging the Church at its core. How do we respond? For the church we must remain committed (as our founders were) to solid biblical teaching, discipleship and mentoring of all believers. The work is not yet done, and the opportunities and needs continue to grow. God is at work, and we have been called. Can revival happen again? Is renewal happening? What will Our Story be? To be continued To borrow a quote from associate missionary Bob Toews: OK, we got the call, but we got it 2000 years ago, and so did you. The call came for all believers Matthew 28:19-20 'therefore go and make disciples of all nations...' what have you done with your call? May we not only celebrate what God has done, but move forward in anticipation of what He will continue to do in our next 80 years. Lyn Dyck, EMMC Executive Director Lyn and his wife Jennifer together with their family attend Altona EMM Church, Manitoba. For a more detailed story of the start of the EMMC, and glimpse into the struggle of these four young ministers, read The Beginnings of the Rudnerweider Gemeinde. This little booklet is available at the EMMC Home Offi ce in Winnipeg or on-line at / about/our-history These free booklets are available for distribution in your congregation, church library or for family members. Contact EMMC Home Office at or info@emmc.ca to request additional copies. September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 7

8 Aiming towards a clear goal Aim at nothing, and you ll hit it every time. We have all heard that kind of statement, and it can be unsettling, because of the truth that it reveals. So what to do? During 2016, the EMMC Home Office Staff spent several months evaluating our direction and our purpose and to develop a clear five-year plan. We examined our areas of greatest spiritual need, our areas of strength, and areas of potential improvement and opportunities. We assessed our most viable options for strengthening the ministries of our family of churches. Our General Board and Council approved the 5-Year Strategic Plan in November of Since that time, we as staff and conference leaders have engaged our churches and regions with its contents. One of our key findings was that our Purpose Statement resonates and provides direction for our ministry and our life together. The vision of the 5-Year Plan is to be a resource to EMMC congregations, as they strive to achieve a level of unity, love and service, worthy of God s call. Our calling is summarized in our tag line MAKING Purpose Statement EMMC exists to EQUIP and ENCOURAGE our churches for effective ministry, EMPOWERING them to participate in God s work in the world. Our international, regional and local ministries will focus on: INSPIRING and FACILITATING local outreach and global missions. EQUIPPING and RESOURCING local church ministries. DEVELOPING and SUPPORTING pastors and leaders in our congregation. DISCIPLES CONNECTING CHURCHES. To that end, the 5-Year Plan document is intended to consolidate our analysis to provide a basis for a renewed obedience and response to Jesus exhortation to make disciples in Matthew 28: It is from this perspective that we launch our ministry initiatives and plans. This document is a framework to guide our path; to provide focus and clarity in our efforts, resulting in God being glorified. 8 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

9 The 5-Year Plan has now been in practice for nearly a year. Successful plans are not static. These plans need to be evaluated on an annual basis in order to move towards our goals and objectives. With that in mind, Review Criteria has been crafted and put in place to assist with on-going assessments to help reveal the areas where adjustments are required and where progress has been made. This bi-annual reassessment will help to keep the plan moving forward while making the necessary updates and adjustments on a regular basis instead of doing a major over-haul at the end of a five year span. Leadership Development and Church Renewal As of September 1, 2017, EMMC entered into our second 6-month pilot project with Darrell Kehler of SCOPE Leadership. The following churches have signed on for the leadership workshop: Morden EMMC of Region 3 Manitoba in October Hepburn, Warman, and Sutherland of Region 1/ Saskatchewan-Alberta in November Bergfeld Mennonite, Manitoba in Region 3 in January Blue Creek EMMC, Spanish Lookout EMMC and Belize Camping Experience, Belize in February 2018 Follow-up discussions with churches that have completed the Leading With Vision workshop are continuing. Meanwhile, other churches have expressed interest in participating in the workshop. Other organizations are watching to see how EMMC churches are moving forward with the Leadership Development Workshops, and are keenly interested in also tapping into this resource. Darrell Kehler has earned his certification to use the Lead like Jesus DiSC and Biblical DiSC material as well. At The Gathering and at the pastor s retreat in July 2017, it became apparent that there was correlation between the workshops led by Darrell Kehler (Leadership Development) and Terry Hiebert (Church Renewal). Ken Dueck, lead pastor at Altona EMMC is currently leading the congregation through a renewal process. Ken has extensive experience as a transitional pastor and attended the workshops at The Gathering. In late August Executive Director Lyn Dyck gathered this group together to understand where this could benefit our family of churches. Each person present shared the insights of their experiences both within their existing churches, and previous experiences in other churches. They found that the resources that have been provided recently through the Leading With Vision workshops have been well received and the demand indicates the need for and willingness to utilize the resource. As our leaders gain a better understanding of how God has wired them, they also are asking themselves of what is God s vision for my life and for our Church. For some it is the opportunity to dream again, and see why we do church. It becomes the beginning of a renewal and the opportunity for individuals and churches to consider next steps. As we look across this family of churches, we have some that are growing, a number that are considering expansion and some that are considering other ministries and involvements. We also have some churches that have plateaued or are in a state of decline. It is helpful for our churches to see their reality. Where are they on the lifecycle of a church? Spiritually growing and healthy, or in Maintenance mode? Church Life Cycle The church renewal and revitalization process, more consultation is required. We can all agree that we need healthy churches. Working together with pastors and leaders in the EMMC provides opportunities for support and accountability and understanding. Early in October, Al Kehler, Conference Pastor and Executive Director Lyn Dyck gathered a group of EMMC pastors. Their focus was to explore the idea of developing a Pastor-in-Training program. After receiving positive responses from pastors, the group was encouraged to continue creating this mentoring process. The developing ministry leaders is a core part of church renewal, as it connects directly with discipleship and is a practical way of implementing leadership development. As EMMC continues to move and grow, we do so with Matthew 28:19 and 20 as our directive. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19 & 20 ~ Lyn Dyck EMMC Executive Director September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 9

10 Plautdietsche Medienkonferenz Together we achieve more! Blumenau, Manitoba Colony, Mexico September 5 to 8, 2017 Being able to connect with others who have a common goal is invigorating and inspiring. The Plautdietsch Medienkonferenzein Manitoba Colony, Cuauhtémoc Mexico provided that opportunity to connect! September 5 to 8 was a time dedicated to the development of Plautdietsch and sharing of resources and insight to broaden the circle of available material and expertise. People from eight different countries gathered to share information and experience in writing and developing material in Plautdietsch. They shared ways of making use of radio technology, encouraged each other in writing songs and producing music, expression through art, creating videos with cell phones. Building on what each one brought to the Konferenz made for a wonderful time of discovery and celebration. The musicians wrote and produced a song and performed it for the group Translators / writers wrestled with words, grammar, spelling and further developing the written language Artists created beautiful work Radio people shared information and ideas about the technical side of production Video folks learned new techniques and used cell phones to create a video for the larger group Not everyone was good in each area, nor were they interested in each area! The study groups gave each person the opportunity to learn more in their specific area, and to contribute their experience and ability. This group of approximately 80 people came together under the common banner of Plautdietsch, but the broader umbrella was the desire to provide Christian / evangelical All Plautdietsche Medienkonferenz photos are by Jakob Sawatzki, Germany, unliess otherwise noted. Used with permission. Plautdietsche Medienkonferenz 2017 attendees, representing eight different countries: Belize, Bolivia, Austria, Paraguay, Germany, Canada, USA and Mexico. The Bolivia representatives played an important role at the Konferenz. Education and radio are two major components of the ministries that MEM carries in Bolivia. Their practical experience with people who have had limited opportunities and education helped shape how written Plautdietsch will be developed. Anita dekehler and Ella Friesen are currently developing curriculum for grade school, and expect to have the majority of the project available for students in Photo: Jake Fehr, Radio; Eduard Giesbrecht, video production; Bill Kehler, MEM Field Director; Anita dekehler, curriculum development; Ella Friesen, curriculum development; Eva and Arlie Peters, MEM Director of Education; Cornie Sawatzky, Radio del Campo Boliviano Board Chair. 10 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

11 resources to those who have NO OTHER language. There are approximately 500,000 Plautdietsch speakers around the world. Many of these people do not have the luxury of a second or third language. Plautdietsch was the common spoken language at the Konferenz. A common goal, a common vision, working together, encouraging each other, learning from each other and a willingness to share freely was a demonstration of the same God working in all men. Abe Giesbrecht, Missions Coordinator, my husband George and I benefitted from being part of the Third Plautdietsch Medienkonferenz. The delegation from Germany extended the invitation for the next Konferenz in 2019 to be held in Germany. ~ Lil Goertzen, Editor 3PMK Sponsors Canadians that attended the 2017 Plautdietsch Medienkonferenz in Cuauhtemoc, Mexico: back row: Dick Loewen, Picture Butte, AB; Abe Giesbrecht, EMMC Missions Facilitator; Ed Zacharias, Low German translator, Winkler MB; Kennert Giesbrecht, Die Mennonitesche Post, Steinbach, MB; Abe Harms, Mennonite Community Services, Aylmer, ON; Anita Harms, Aylmer, ON; James Schellenberg, MCC Canada; Abe Heppner, Sommerfeld Churches, MB. Front row: Verna Doerksen, Wycliffe Bible Translators, Low German Ministries, Redcliffe Alberta; George Goertzen, Winnipeg, MB; Lil Goertzen EMMC Communications Coordinator, Winnipeg MB; Nettie and Diedrich Friesen, Multi-Nations Ministries Foundation/D Friesens, Reinland, MB; Wayne Thiessen, EBMC, Grand Prarie, AB; Irene Marsch, Square One Media, Winnipeg MB; Jake Fehr, Saskatchewan, ministering in Bolivia. Diedrich Harms (left) being interviewed by his brother, Abe Harms. Abe is the manager for Low German radio station DeBrigj in Aylmer ON. Photo: Lil Goertzen Shipyard, Belize was well represented at the conference with Henry and Tina Redekopp who are involved with both the Gospel Fellowship Chapel, as well as DeStemm Radio Station. Justina and David Friesen are an important part of the leadership team of the congregation. De cluck on the right was a reminder to speak Plautdietsch when addressing the larger audience. If non- Plautdietsch words slipped into the presentation, the speaker was encouraged to drop some pesos into the clay chicken! Funds went to help off-set the costs of the Konferenz. At the outset of the Konferenz, de cluck was just a brown, clay chicken. Artist Bennie Peters turned it into this beautiful piece of art! At the conclusion of the Plautdietsch Medienkonferenz, it was determined that this group should continue to work at developing the written structure of Plautdietsch. Encouragement was given to forward questions and suggestions to these gentlemen so there can be consistency in word usage and spelling as development of the written language continues. Pictured: Arlie Peters, Bolivia; Ed Zacharias, Canada; Heinrich Siemens, Germany. September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 11

12 Region 1 - Alberta / Saskatchewan Window on the Regions Region 1 Gathering Valley Christian Academy, Osler SK August 20 Photos courtesy of wayne shiels Conference Pastor Al Kehler was the guest speaker at the Region 1 Gathering. Children are important to Pastor Al. You can always count on him involving the children in some way. Jason Duermeyer, Lead Pastor at Hague Gospel Church. Ray Sider, interim pastor at Hepburn Gospel Church hosted the celebration. 12 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

13 Region 4 - Ontario Region 2 - Manitoba Central Aylmer EMMC Baptism celebration! Aylmer EMMC, Ontario was blessed to hear many testimonies on Sunday mornings throughout the summer. On August 13 we had a baptism celebration at Springwater Conservation Area and welcomed nine new members. Lili Dyck (membership transfer), Susie Knelsen, Cassy Dyck, Abe Peters, Nico Thiessen, Martha Heide, Chrissy Hiebert (membership transfer), Henry Wiebe, Branden Wiebe. Back: Pastor Michael Krahn is ecstatic to have had the opportunity to lead this fabulous group of people through the Christian Life Class Following the service we all enjoyed a potluck lunch together. Austin Evangelical Fellowship 8 South Ave, Austin MB (204) austinefc.com Region 6 - Belize / Mexico South Blue Creek EMMC, Belize Youth baptism March 23 to 25, 2018 EMMC Youth Leader Retreat 2018 Blue Creek EMMC, Belize celebrated with baptism on August 20, Pastor John Krahn, Karina Jeany Klassen (membership transfer), Rachel Wiebe, Chantel Harder, Destinee Froese, Tammy Wiebe, KeriAnne Dyck, Justin Wiebe, Jerry Dyck, Dallas Rempel, Youth Pastor Henry Janzen, Pastor Diedrich Dyck. for ALL those involved in youth ministry Red Rock Bible Camp Rennie, Manitoba September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 13

14 Region 6 - Belize / Mexico South Gospel Fellowship Chapel, Shipard, Belize New pastor for Shipyard We are thankful and blessed to be able to announce that God has provided a pastor couple for Gospel Fellowship Chapel. After much prayer, Pete and Tina Banman from Ontario have agreed to serve Shipyard as the next pastor couple. They have two daughters and six grandchildren. They are planning to arrive in Belize in Pete and Tina Banman chosen as new late November 2017 pastor couple for Gospel Fellowship to begin serving in Chapel, Shipyard, Belize. December. A special commissioning service is planned for December 3. All are invited to celebrate with us. Pete and Tina have diverse backgrounds. Tina was born in Mexico and moved with her family to Canada while she was young, where she accepted the Lord at age 8. She moved again with her family to Belize in 1974 where she met Pete. Pete was born in La Crete, Alberta and moved with his parents to Belize in 1962, where he grew up and later met Tina. They both moved to Ontario and married in They were baptized in the Mount Salem EMC in Although Pete had prayed the sinner s prayer, attended Bible classes and served in church with young people, he was not a believer. A godless lifestyle followed, and their marriage and family fell apart. Then the Lord worked a miracle in their lives. In Pete s words, Today I can tell you that through God's marvelous grace, I had a true encounter with Almighty God and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and became a new creation in Christ in November After I got saved, the Lord put a burden on my heart for the men in Belize that I had always drank with. I desired to go and be a testimony to them. So in November 2007 we moved to Belize and lived there for about 5 and a half years, became members in the Blue Creek EMMC, and got involved in ministry. In 2010 we were called into the deacon ministry and shortly after that as lay minister couple. They were also actively involved with outreach among the Old Colony communities in Belize, especially in Indian Creek. Because he sensed that he might be called to pastor and resisted the thought, they moved back to Canada. But they are no longer running and willingly and humbly embrace the calling. Pete explains, I tremble at the thought, but I believe the Lord will not ask us to do something that He will not give us the ability to do. We have always felt that our work in Belize was not finished yet. So we believe that the call from the Shipyard Church is truly a call from the One who is building His Church, the Lord Jesus. We are humbled by the call. We want to surrender all to Him and go forward with rejoicing. We as a congregation feel that Pete and Tina are God s choice for Gospel Fellowship Chapel for various reasons. They have roots in Belize and understand our people. They have a heart for the Old Colony and Pete is gifted in evangelism. Our colony is on the verge of revival and his fervor in sharing the Gospel will be a strong asset. We sense a teachable and humble spirit about them, willing to be molded for the Lord s purposes. Please join us in thanking and praising the Lord for His direction and provision as well as in prayer for His continuing wisdom and strength. ~ Tina Redekopp When we get tangled up in our problems, BE STILL. GOD wants us to BE STILL so He can untangle the knot. 14 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

15 Region 6 - Belize / Mexico South DeStemm to celebrate grand opening With receiving the approval of the radio license at the end of July, the next steps of preparing for the radio station in Shipyard Belize moved forward quickly. The equipment was brought into place, and the search for and gathering of music and programs began. There is a lot of work in putting together a 24-hour radio station! Henry Redekopp has given leadership to this project. The prayers, support and encouragement from the Region 6 council and churches is turning the vision for a radio station into a reality! DeStemm (The Voice) can be heard at 93.3FM. Margaret Friesen (right) from Shipyard spent three days hand stitching this quilt with the De Stemm logo and upcoming frequency. It will be on display at the studio if you ever want to check it out. Henry and Tina Redekopp assist with holding up the quilt. ~ Henry Redekopp DeStemm Radio Grand Opening Celebration Saturday, October 28 Shipyard, Belize The radio tower in Shipyard, Belize. website: De Stemm es daut Plautdiestche Radio en Belize. Wie strolen haupsechlich Plautdietche Musik un Programen Can Vegetables Bear Fruit? A three-year-old writhes in her father s arms, lips locked against the dreaded terror - peas. Were the peas that important? No. What was important was the lesson of obedience. After what seemed like an age, the lips fi nally unlocked to accept the peas. A lesson of obedience had just been learned. A seven-year-old sits on the fl oor, tears of self-pity rolling down her cheeks. Before her lay the mushrooms she had dropped on the floor in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid eating them with her supper. Were the mushrooms that important? No. What was important was the lesson of obedience. She learned that if Mom and Dad put mushrooms on her plate, she had to eat them. Sneaking them under the table only resulted in her having to eat them off the floor. A lesson of obedience had just been learned. Yes, embarrassingly enough, that was me. As a child obedience, just like eating certain vegetables, wasn t always easy. But could these vegetables bear fruit? My parents taught my brothers and me to obey right away, all the way, and cheerfully. Sometimes we think that obeying right away isn t all that important, especially if we re busy doing our own thing. David tells us in Psalm 119, I promise to obey your words I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands. (v. 57, 60) If we claim allegiance to God, then we give Him a promise to obey, and our obedience should be prompt. Our obedience should also be complete. Psalm 119:44 states, I will keep on obeying your instructions forever and ever. When we obey, we have to follow through. Obeying cheerfully, though, can be a kicker sometimes. We receive a command in Philippians 2:14, Do everything without complaining and arguing. When we think of how Jesus went to the cross without complaining, do our piddling affairs really matter? My parents taught me to obey right away, all the way, and cheerfully. While it wasn t always easy, it taught me not only to obey them and other authorities, it ultimately taught me to obey my Heavenly Father. So did those vegetable bear fruit? I can confidently say that they did. ~ Rachel Redekopp Gospel Fellowship Chapel Shipyard, Belize September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 15

16 Ministries and workers Dave and Cheri Bartsch Elianna & Verity Youth With a Mission Gold Coast, Australia Outreach ministry Home church: Aylmer EMMC, Ontario Faith is seeing something and being convinced that what God is showing us will happen because He spoke it. Early this year we had what could be described as a tsunami of trouble when it came to the ministries that we are leading with Youth With A Mission. With 60% of our key leaders leaving their posts and moving on to other things to which God was calling them, left my heart in a mess and ruined my plan of building my dream team. After many tears and conversations with God I began to regain my composure and was able to see once again what God had called me to do: to train, equip and release leaders into the nations to impact their worlds for Christ. The hard work and toil that goes into discipling people and investing your life into them is great but the reward of seeing the multiplication of dream teams built all over the globe leading people to Jesus is worth it. Over the next 6 months I would see some of the greatest friendships that I have made in ministry make steps of obedience towards God s call on their lives. They have all left legacy at YWAM Gold Coast and have left their marks on the ministries and people here. I have been reminded in this season to hang on to God s Word and let it remain in my being so deeply that nothing can shake His calling and word in me. A story of a student that graduated our DTS (Discipleship Training School) program. I have grown so deeply in my love for God during these 6 months. I have always known that God speaks, but I never knew that God would want to speak to me personally as a believer. This training and experience has changed the way that I see God and His goodness and I am in love with His word on a much deeper personal level. The evangelism ministry is continuing to teach and model what lifestyle evangelism can look like and how easy it is to share your life with others. We have spent time training our interns and students and taken them onto the streets to engage with the public as a practical portion of getting over the fear of sharing your faith. We have seen some incredible breakthrough in our students and staff as they have overcome the obstacle of fear and started building relationships with nonbelievers. Our aim and goal is that true love would be known and experienced through our lives and ministry. Thanks again to everybody that is praying for us. It is such a privilege to serve Jesus in this way and we appreciate all of your support and prayer as we endeavour to lead strong through the rest of this year with God. Scott and Patsy Buhler Teach Beyond / Quest Director of Retreat Centre Santa Catarina, Brazil Home church: Niverville Community Fellowship, Manitoba I (Scott) was feeling very feverish, which is unusual for me. I never get sick. Although my body begged for rest, I was committed to teaching this class. What weighed heavy on me was knowing that Patsy and I were going to be up early the next morning to speak at a marriage retreat for two days. Beyond that, I had no outlook for rest during the week as I was scheduled to travel to a place called Espírito Santo (Holy Spirit). I had never been there before and I had been anticipating this trip for over a year. Patsy and I prayed, asking God to be my strength. I am an introvert, I need my down time, especially when I am not feeling well. I had no idea what lay ahead and looking back, I m glad I didn t. 16 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

17 My trip to ES was delayed and I arrived at my hosts home at 1am on Friday morning. In the days that followed I experienced a new culture. A rural culture that is up early enough in the morning to have lunch by 10:30am! Where internet depended on solar panels and when the sun went down, so did the internet! I visited many farms and one of them grew three of my favorite things: coffee, black pepper and cocoa beans! During my 11-day stay, I spoke at a men s retreat, I preached in 3 different churches, planned, prepared and spoke at a Junior High retreat and had a surprise invitation to speak at a women s Bible study with coffee and cake thrown in! I spoke 11 times in 11 days. What amazed me the most was the physical energy I experienced and the enthusiasm I had to speak and share. God blessed me greatly with immediate positive feedback from those to whom I ministered. Throughout my leadership journey, I ve learned that if we don t look after ourselves physically, emotionally and spiritually, our bodies will eventually lay us out! Upon my return home, I battled fever and flu for four days. I literally lay on our couch for four days, which I hardly remember. Reflecting on all this, I don t know if it s the name of the place that I went to, Holy Spirit, but I know for a fact that I experienced the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in my life during those 11 days like I never had before. What a whirlwind year 2017 has been! We have been working hard on the Panapaná building project! We entered into the 3rd and final phase of the project about a month ago and are very pleased to say that God has already blessed Quest with 31% of the total funds needing to be raised. We estimated the final phase costs to be around $100,000 and through two precious families, we have been gifted the first 30% of this phase. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Your cheerful hearts in giving sacrificially has been an inspiration to us! It is people like you that give us the encouragement to keep pressing forward. We have been held back for a while, because the company we had contracted to put on the metal roofing has broken their word and our contract. Quest s board decided to move on to another company who is willing to finish what the other had started. We have had to involve a Christian lawyer from our church, who is helping us wade through the legalities of the situation. We ask for your prayers as we make decisions. The roof tiles have now been ordered and are being prepared! We are moving forward with the stuccoing of the Panapaná and it is looking amazing! It s a big project and we are grateful for the bricklayers who work hard every day and surprise us with their quick progress! We praise God for the safety He has provided! In March 2018, Quest is officially celebrating 10 years of ministry and our hearts desire would be to inaugurate the Panapaná at that same time! To God be the glory, GREAT Ministries and workers Gord and Beckie Klassen Inner City Youth Alive Gem Lake Wilderness Camp, Director (Gord) Winnipeg, Manitoba Home church: Nassau Street Church, Winnipeg MB evidence of His power. Thank you so much for your prayers and support for us and our staff team at Gem Lake Wilderness Camp this summer. We ran eight camps, each one filled with the maximum number of campers. If I had to choose an overall theme to sum up this summer it would be God s faithfulness and the We had a younger staff team than we have had other summers, but they boldly used the gifts God had given them and were diligent in sharing His love and message with the campers. It was exciting to see a number of campers take that first step into relationship with Christ and many others move towards a better understanding of God s plan for them personally. During one of our Teen Camps I was awakened in the middle of the night by a two-way radio call from a staff member on another island. He asked me to pray for them because a camper was having severe night terrors. Beckie and I prayed that the staff would have wisdom and also for peace for the other campers. A short time later we were awakened again and asked if I could come to their island, along with the pastor who was our guest speaker that week. By the time we arrived it was evident that this camper was not suffering from night terrors but was under the control of a demonic power. Several of our staff had been praying over the camper for some time, while the remaining staff stayed with the rest of the campers in the cabin, reading scripture and singing songs of praise to God. The demon was disturbed by this and was making threats against the campers, yelling in a most evil voice that he would not leave without a fight. The pastor asked the demon some questions. We laid hands on the camper and prayed. Then, with the authority of Christ, the pastor commanded the demon to come out. The camper s body relaxed, he lifted his head and with a quiet voice, which we knew as his own, asked what was going on. The pastor explained to him what had taken place. The camper responded, That was really crazy I think I need a hug now. The pastor followed up by asking him whether he wanted to receive Jesus into his life, which he did! A flood of peace filled the place. The battle was over and Christ was victorious! things He has done! cotinued on page 18 September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 17

18 Ministries and workers Gord and Beckie Klassen continued from page 17 The next morning we met with the boys to explain a bit more about what had happened during the night. They were an exhausted bunch, having slept very little, but it was exciting to hear how a terrifying experience for both campers and staff had turned into a time of reading God s Word and celebrating with the camper in his decision to follow Christ. They had seen with their own eyes how God s power defeated the power of darkness and saved a life for Himself. It was real and it was amazing! We are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world. What a powerful assurance to know that we are on the winning side in this battle. Please continue to pray for our campers and especially for this group of boys as they process the things they have heard and learned at camp this summer. Praise and Prayer Items Praise God for giving us safety at camp, on the road and in the water and for outstanding weather this summer. Praise God for a dedicated summer staff team that was committed to sharing Christ with the campers. Pray for continued growth in the campers who made decisions to follow Christ. Pray for good opportunities to connect with campers and staff in the city. Pray for the camp staff and me as we transition back into city routines, also for three staff that graduated this spring and are into jobs, university and Bible College. Praise God that our entire camp staff reached full support this summer. First time! Pray for me as I clean up and close camp for the season and that our camp is kept safe. Pray that I use my time wisely and that preparation for winter camps goes well. Did you know... There are a variety of ways to make a donation to EMMC. Cheques, cash and money orders are always welcome. To donate online, go to and click on the Give, Gather, Go button on the home page. Regular monthly contributions through bank transfers can be arranged. Just call EMMC Home Office at and we will be happy to assist. Mailing address: EMMC 757 St. Anne s Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba CANADA R2N 4G6 p Lori and Dan Neufeld Inner City Youth Alive Bridge Drop-In Coordinator (Lori) Winnipeg, Manitoba Home church: Altona EMMC, Manitoba Being on sabbatical these past four months has been incredible. I met all sorts of wonderful people at weddings, on the river and at the local splash pads and was so grateful for all the support I received from new and old friends. I learned a lot about myself and grew to truly appreciate the gifts that God has given me. I surprised myself with everything that I took away from this experience. Thank you to each and every one of you for your prayers and encouragement for Dan and me this summer. We were beyond blessed! The end of my sabbatical also meant summer was ending and paddling season was coming to a close. I was thrilled to see my team again, but I wondered what they expected from me when I returned. Did I need to be more educated? Overflowing with energy to do the work? I hoped they would embrace me when I stepped back into the office, but I was filled with doubt. Well, as I walked up to ICYA along Salter Street I could already see the balloon at my desk. My first three days were filled with hugs, gifts and lunches. Kids I hadn't seen in years appeared at my door and new staff members treated me as if I had been there all summer. I felt overwhelmed with love. The honeymoon phase has ended now and the challenges that I faced before sabbatical are back on my plate, but it's different now. I've grown. I feel ready to tackle the tasks before me and I'm feeling a lot more relaxed. My hope and prayer is that I will take all that I've learned during the summer and pour it into my work. With September well underway Dan, Finley and I have been working hard at establishing a new routine. This includes Kindergarten for Finn, level 2 electrical at Red River College for Dan and me back in the office during the day and rotating through ICYA's Drop-ins in the evenings. The changes haven't come without some miscommunication, meals on the fly and a little chaos, but we're getting by and know that we'll grasp this schedule soon. Please pray for us as we do life in the North End. We continue to feel called to this ministry, but we know that it isn't possible without your prayer and financial support. 18 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

19 Ministries and workers Tami Zacharias Director of Human Resources Operation Mobilization Port Colborne, ON Home church: Winkler EMMC, Manitoba Jesus said in Luke 16:10, Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. Contrary to the messages in society, Jesus tells us to start small, and aim at faithfulness, not greater power or influence. I have often been amazed to see how when I focus in this way, my influence expands naturally and in proportion to my character. People often see more in me than I see in myself, and give me opportunities beyond my current capacity. I think it s God s growth plan. Thank you for your prayers, which help me remain faithful. Basic Leadership Training I ve been working with a team of people around the OM world to develop a new online course to train all newcomers into OM in basic leadership. It s a big task that potentially impacts hundreds. Most of our meetings are online, but in June we met together in Germany. I found it both challenging and productive. The project leader recently asked me to take over his position. It s a little intimidating to me, but I also see the opportunity to be faithful in something greater. Please pray for wisdom as I take on this project leadership, and that we would develop the best course possible for God s glory. OM Canada National Conference I never realized all that you did. Thank you! I was shocked to hear this sort of thing from multiple people after my HR presentation at the OM Canada National Conference in May. Until that point, I often felt that not only did people not appreciate my work, they actually thought I was trying to make their lives difficult. It was encouraging to find new common ground. Overall, the conference went even better than I expected. Thank you for praying! OM internationally, and the plan is to move into that full-time when I finish here. I want to discern God s direction not only in what I do, but also in when and how I do it. Would you pray with me? October 15-21: Taking an OM course focused on people care. Located in Port Colborne. November 1-11: Facilitating an online OM course called Effective Online Teaching Prayer and Praise Praise for a successful OM Canada National Conference Pray for wisdom as I take on project leadership of the Basic Leadership Training course development Pray for the 3 Canadians joining OM through the GO Conference in the Netherlands Pray for God to help me remain faithful with what I ve been given Carl and Pat Whitehead Wycliffe Bible Translators Working with the Menya people group Papua New Guinea Home church: Nassau Street Church, Winnipeg MB The shipment of Menya New Testaments has arrived! The audio recording of the New Testament has been completed. The technician will now do some editing to get an improved final version. Thanks for all your prayers. Please pray that the plans for the dedication will come together. The dedication is planned for February 23, Thinking Ahead I can hardly believe I ve been at the OM Canada office in Port Colborne for three years this September! It s a blessing to tell you that God has done even more than I planned or imagined in the ministry and my personal life. Although my initial term here was three years, I agreed to stay on another year, finishing in summer I ve already started to get involved in training and leadership development projects with September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 19

20 Ministries and workers John and Song Ja Gerbrandt Open-Door Missionary Service Committee Pyeongtaek, South Korea Home church: Glencross Mennonite, Manitoba It is fall in Korea. Farmers have started the rice harvest and the crops around here look quite good. People have also planted Korean cabbage and large radishes for the winter kimchi; pickled cabbage with hot spices. Soon it will be time again to plant garlic and onions. They are planted in late fall like winter wheat and then grow in early spring. In July, our daughter, Susanna, her family and I enjoyed several weeks together with family, relatives and friends. The grandchildren enjoyed seeing many new or different things in Winnipeg and southern Manitoba. I returned to Korea on August 31. Song Ja stayed at home in Korea. She continues to work full-time as an LPN at the Pyeongtaek E-Pyongwon (Peace) Senior Hospital near where we live. It would have been great if she could have come with us, but it was not possible this time. Lord willing, there may be a next time. The first week in October is the Chusok holiday which is the Korean version of Thanksgiving Day. They also refer to it as the Harvest Moon Festival. It is a time for family gatherings and a lot of good food. Ancestor worship is also practiced at this time, as families visit their deceased ancestors graves to bring them food and to bow down in front of the grave. Even now we see many people cutting the grass and cleaning up the family gravesites to prepare for this event. They do not realize that they are sacrificing to demons and not to God. I Corinthians 10:20. They need the gospel. At the beginning of March, we started a Sunday school. There are only 4 children, but it is good to see the children studying the Bible. The morning consists of a message and teaching time followed by smaller group fellowship. Please pray that these meetings might lead to spiritual growth and that the Lord Jesus Christ might be honored and glorified. Thank you all for your prayers and support for us and the Lord s work here in Korea. May the Lord continue to bless and guide you in His ways and in His service. The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember... NOAH was a drunk ABRAHAM was too old ISAAC was a daydreamer JACOB was a liar LEAH was ugly JOSEPH was abused MOSES had a stuttering problem GIDEON was afraid SAMSON had long hair and was a womanizer RAHAB was a prostitute JEREMIAH and Timothy were too young DAVID had an affair and was a murderer ELIJAH was suicidal ISAIAH preached naked JONAH ran from God NAOMI was a widow JOB went bankrupt JOHN the Baptist ate bugs PETER denied Christ THE DISCIPLES fell asleep while praying MARTHA worried about everything THE SAMARITAN WOMAN was divorced, more than once ZACCHAEUS was too small PAUL was too religious TIMOTHY had an ulcer...and LAZARUS was dead! 20 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

21 Ministries and workers Bolivia Arlie and Eva Peters Director of Education Low German Ministry - MEM Villa Nueva, Bolivia Home church: Aylmer EMMC, Ontario Joshua, Arlie and Eva, Gabriela and Naomi Peters with the family pets. T h e school transition seems to be going well even better than last year! As of February 10, 2016, A r l i e handed over the leadership of the Villa Nueva school into the hands of very capable and talented people who are just as committed and passionate about education for the Mennonite children as we are! Please pray for Albert Pardo, who has taken on the role of principal while still teaching part time; Sandra Rojas is now teaching part time while also taking on the role of vice principal, which includes overseeing most of the academic aspects of running the school. She is also director of the adult evening school. Gerhard Unger is a school board member who has taken on the communications aspect of the school leadership, communicating with the parents and teachers. God has truly blessed us with these 3 gifted individuals who are doing a great job of leading the school forward! Arlie is still the director of education for our MEM team here in Bolivia. As such, he is working with 4 schools outside of Villa Nueva and Hacienda Verde. These four schools have been started by groups of families. However, they lack some of the knowledge and resources necessary to run a school, so they have asked Arlie for advice and assistance. Their schools are running under the umbrella of the Villa Nueva school. Arlie s responsibilities include organizing annual teacher workshops for all the teachers from these 6 schools, help spread the word of the teacher needs, keeping contact with the teachers and leaders of the outlying 5 schools, visiting them to encourage and provide advice as needed, help collect and hand in all the necessary paperwork for the children to be registered with our school, and mostly helping these new believers learn conflict resolution according to scriptures.i often go along with Arlie on these trips to the outlying schools, to help encourage the female teachers or the wives of the school leaders, and most often just to listen to them. They often feel so alone and isolated in their ministry of school leadership. For them to hear that they are not alone is often encouragement enough for them! Arlie also does the administration for our MEM team here in Bolivia, which involves taking care of the finances, looking after all paperwork and government reports that are required annually, as well as helping new team members with getting their visas and any other documents required for them to be able to be here in Bolivia. Another exciting development is the production of a Plautdietsch (Low German) curriculum, complete with teacher guide books, workbooks, and reading books which has been a heart s desire for Arlie since almost the beginning of our time here in Bolivia. Thanks to God s provision, that is becoming reality as well. We have been so blessed to have two linguists, Ella Friesen and Anita de Kehler, come on board our team and make this project a reality! They will be joining us in Mexico for the Plautdietsch Media Conference September 5 to 8 to present some fruit of their labour there. To see how God has gifted each of us differently, and working together to bring something beautiful out of it all is truly AWEsome! We praise God for His marvelous works! At the home front, our children are growing faster than we can keep up with! It has been such a joy for me to be mostly at home with our children, especially as we are entering a key phase in their lives - Joshua is 14 years old and in grade 9, Naomi is 12 years old and in grade 7, and Gabriela is 10 years old and in grade 5. They are each such a blessing from God and we treasure the short years that we still have together as a family under one roof! However, they each have their own struggles that come with being a family in ministry, so please pray that God will protect them and bless them! We truly appreciate your continued prayers and financial support in our ongoing ministry here in Bolivia! God has truly blessed the work He has for us here, and what joy to see the ministries that we have been involved in growing, maturing, and being passed on to local leadership! Seeing our dreams and desires from the first year we were here become reality is so fulfilling, and we are so blessed to see some of the fruit of the labour which God is producing right here around us! We know that without our many co-workers (locals and missionaries), and without you our faithful supporters that would not be possible you are a key member of our team! THANK YOU! September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 21

22 MCC providing relief around the world MCC responds to Irma s devastation in Cuba, Haiti Community health organizer Osa Jonmarits received a comforter, an MCC relief bucket and water purification tablets after his home and property were damaged by flooding from Hurricane Irma. Mcc Photo/annalee Giesbrecht Osa Jonmarits and his family were awakened in the middle of the night as water rushed into their mud and stone house on the mountains of La Chapelle, Haiti, and covered them in their beds. The flash flooding came from Hurricane Irma, a category-five hurricane that passed to the north of Haiti on September 7. It caused flash floods and heavy winds from the country s northern shores to its deep interior, where La Chapelle is located. Placing their two smallest children on their shoulders, Jonmarits and his wife waded with their other two children through waist-deep floodwaters in places, as they walked uphill for several hours in pouring rain to get to a safer location. La Chapelle is a commune (like a township or municipality), located in the Artibonite Department, which had one of the highest concentrations of rainfall in the country within a very short time. The rainfall led to devastating flash floods because of the Artibonite s mountainous topography and narrow ravines. People living in La Chapelle, which is accessible only by foot, reported flash floods causing water to rise to waist height in their homes in less than a minute. The Jonmarits family returned to their home the next day to find walls crumbling, livestock dead and their surrounding garden and fruit trees swept away by the murky flood waters. Most of their belongings had been destroyed or washed away, including school materials and uniforms for their children a huge cost to the family and a necessity for attendance. Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) is asking for contributions to respond to these needs in Haiti as well as in Cuba, which suffered an even more direct hit from Irma on September 8. In Haiti, less than 48 hours after Hurricane Irma passed, MCC staff conducted its first distribution of comforters, water purification tablets and relief kits that contain hygiene supplies for a family of four. MCC also is preparing for a food security response for families in and around La Chapelle, including the distribution of food assistance and seeds, so people can replant their gardens. To contribute to MCC s disaster response in Cuba and Haiti, you can donate online, at mcccanada.ca/hurricane-irma. Contributions can also be made by phone, or at your local MCC office. Please contact Mennonite Disaster Service to support its response to Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Mennonite Central Committee Relief, development and peace in the name of Christ MCC provides relief for those caught in Ukraine conflict T h e conflict in Ukraine continues to force people from their homes to seek refuge in other parts of the country. It began in 2014 when Russia annexed the Crimea region; the unrest spread eastward, with waves of people fleeing fighting in the Lugansk and Donetsk areas. Recently the conflict escalated in eastern Ukraine and four million people now require immediate humanitarian assistance. MCC is assisting displaced people and those still living in the conflict zone, through our partners in the Zaporizhzhia and Lugansk regions, as well the cities of Nikopol and Zhytomyr. This support includes assistance with rent and heating costs and psychological support to people affected by the conflict. Our shipments of supplies such as blankets, canned meat and hygiene items have almost doubled since the conflict began. Lena Skachkova and her two sons left their home in Lugansk when bombing intensified. At their new home in Nikopol, Skachkova is thankful for MCC s assistance in paying for utilities and medication. We make porridge with the [MCC] canned meat, she says. And we have one of the [MCC] blankets over the window to keep out the cold. ~ Julie Bell Photo by colin VandenberG 22 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

23 MCC responds to devastating Mexico City earthquake MCC is responding to the two earthquakes which ravaged Mexico, including the 7.1-magnitude quake that hit southern Mexico near Atencingo, Puebla state, causing significant damage in Mexico City on September 19. Hundreds of buildings collapsed in Mexico City, including some schools, trapping people in the rubble. More than 225 were killed in the capital, and the death toll continues to rise as citizens pick through what s left of buildings. There s a lot of anxiety around here. We re still in shock, says MCC representative for Mexico Liliana Alvarez- Woo. The people are all very nervous and frightened by the physical damages, especially because another earthquake happened earlier this month. This earthquake comes less than two weeks after an 8.2-magnitude quake hit Pijijiapan, Chiapas, Mexico. It was felt throughout south and central Mexico, as well as in Guatemala and El Salvador and was the strongest earthquake to hit Mexico since In all this, Alvarez-Woo says she finds hope in many stories of people coming together in a difficult situation. There are many supportive people working in solidarity with one another, she says. Houses and public places have been adapted to attend to people affected. The stronger quake killed at least 90 people in the states of Oaxaca, Chiapas and Tabasco on September 7. In Guatemala, reports of damage vary across the country, with the northwestern highlands of San Marcos, Quetzaltenango and Huehuetenango experiencing the most damage. MCC is planning a response to the earlier earthquake with our partners, and we are assessing needs following the most recent quake. In Guatemala, MCC is co-ordinating and assessing needs with the Diocese of San Marcos. The local partner reports damage to housing and water systems as a result of the earthquake earlier this month. A church in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico, sustained damage during an 8.2-magnitude earthquake on September 7. Mcc Photo: Quinn brenneke MCC welcomes your support for our relief work in Mexico and Guatemala. mexico-earthquake-response ~ Rachel Bergen is a staff writer for MCC in Canada. EMMC Education and Training funds available Students making plans to continue with post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for funding assistance through the Education and Training Fund. Applications are on the EMMC website at and click on Resources and select Student Bursary in the drop-down box. Complete the application and follow the instructions. pastors and MinisTrY WOrkers are also eligible for These funds. For further information, contact education@emmc.ca September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 23

24 Hurricane Irma spares Haiti, but island nation still impacted What happens when a country is hit by one vicious disaster after the other? Hurricane Irma the most powerful storm ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean didn t end up hitting Haiti with the sort of impact many people feared. That sort of terrible impact was left to places like Antigua and Barbuda, Florida, and Cuba. But that doesn t mean residents of the small Caribbean nation the poorest in the western hemisphere, and one with many ties to Canada aren t disproportionately affected. It s easy to think that because Irma s impact was so much less than what it could have been in Haiti, that things are fine, says Matthew Van Geest, program manager at Canadian Foodgrains Bank, who coordinates the Foodgrains Bank s programming in Haiti. For many Haitians, particularly farmers, life post-irma is far from fine. According to the United Nations, agricultural losses due to flooding and high winds in the centre and northern parts of Haiti were significant. Many Haitians are small-scale farmers, explains Van Geest. For them, losing an avocado tree, for example, is a huge setback. It could mean they won t be able to afford school fees for their children this year, or they might not be able to afford to see a doctor if someone in the family is sick. For people who already live close to the edge, the loss of that extra income impacts their life significantly. The effects of Hurricane Irma are also compounded by the effects of Hurricane Matthew, which hit Haiti less than a year ago, and from which the country is still recovering. Hurricane Matthew killed over 500 people, and destroyed roads, buildings, water sources, and schools. Many people were just barely getting their lives back on track with the current planting season when news of Hurricane Irma came out, says Van Geest. Each time a disaster hits is a setback in the climb out of poverty. Knowing Haiti is at constant risk for natural disaster means working to end hunger in ways that are unique to such a situation, he adds. It means we, as the Foodgrains Bank, have to look at the overall situation, and think about how we can work with people to become less vulnerable to disasters, he says. We know the situation probably isn t going to change soon, so how do we help farmers deal with the impacts of a changing climate? One way the Foodgrains Bank is approaching this situation is through an agro-forestry project of Foodgrains Bank member Mennonite Central Committee Canada. Much of Haiti suffers from deforestation and erosion, meaning that when torrential rains fall, such as during a hurricane or tropical storm, they sweep down mountains and hills, taking productive farmland, rickety homes, and infrastructure along with it. Through the MCC project, land is being re-forested, so that when heavy winds and rains do come, farmers have an added layer of protection. For many Haitians, it s not a matter of if people will see their homes, communities and livelihoods destroyed by natural disaster again it s when, says Van Geest. It doesn t mean the situation is hopeless though. One way Canadians concerned about the impact of climate-related disasters on poor countries can help is by contributing to the Climate Fund of Canadian Foodgrains Bank. All gifts to the fund go toward helping people in developing countries adapt to the effects of climate change. A new project is selected every year. This year, a project working with small-scale farmers in Guatemala was chosen to receive donations from the Climate Fund. In past years, the MCC project in Haiti has received the funds. Read more on our Climate Fund website. Please pray for Haiti as additional hurricanes during hurricane season continue to potentially impact the country. --Amanda Thorsteinsson, Communications Coordinator Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 churches and church agencies working together to end global hunger. In the budget year, the Foodgrains Bank provided over $41 million of assistance for over 900,000 people in 35 countries. Canadian Foodgrains Bank projects are undertaken with matching support from the Government of Canada provided through Global Affairs Canada. Assistance from the Foodgrains Bank is provided through its member agencies, which work with local partners in the developing world. Counselling for children, adolescents, and their families is now available with experienced clinicians at Recovery of Hope, with offices in Winnipeg, Portage and Winkler. To learn more, call , or visit Christian, not-for-profit counselling organization. 24 The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

25 Providence President appoints task force for campus redevelopment following Bergen Hall fire OTTERBURNE, September 6, 2017 Providence President Dr. David Johnson has appointed a Task Force for Campus Redevelopment as the institution moves forward following the June fire that destroyed the Bergen Hall residence. Meanwhile, more than $4,500 in donations has been committed towards the $25,000 insurance deductible. Although the Bergen fire was a huge loss to Providence we are turning it into an opportunity to continue our climb to become one of the leading Canadian Christ-centred universities, says Dr. Johnson, who, alongside the Task Force, will continue to tour some of North America s standout residence facilities in the coming months. Following the tours and a comprehensive consultative process, the Task Force, which is already working with a designer and architect, will make its recommendation to the President, who will present development plans to the Board of Directors. We are exploring features to be incorporated into the new residence that will move us forward in offering a holistic, Christ-centred education that is second-to-none, he says. In the meantime, Providence has renovated several existing residence buildings and installed 28 units of temporary housing that include oversize beds and individual fridges and bathrooms for each student. We have done a lot of work to ensure that our students Temporary housing units for students. Marlin Reimer, Associate Vice-President for Student Life at Providence, says the Cundy, Sweet and Pierce residences have received new paint, flooring and furniture, while the temporary structures come equipped with comforts. Each of the 28, air-conditioned rooms in the executive style units has a bathroom, fridge and oversized bed. There are also televisions and laundry services in the common areas. have a great experience in residence this year, says Marlin Reimer, Associate Vice-President for Student Life, who adds that the educational mission of the Residence Life program at Providence will be the driver behind the design and architecture of all new buildings. In the next three weeks a number of campus groups, including students, Cabinet and the Student Development department, will meet with the designer and architect to discern the values and features that will be incorporated into the new residence facility. We pray for wisdom as we plan to build a residence that will be flexible and resilient and will foster faith for the next 50 years or more, says Dr. Johnson. Interested supporters can visit the IMPACT 2020 website and designate their gift to the Bergen Fire Fund. ~ Jerrad Peters Creative Content Specialist Marketing & Communications ext. 245; Jerrad.Peters@Prov.ca September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 25

26 ABUNDANT Living Kevin Davidson Planning Consultant Contagious Generosity Photo: nellie JiMenez For many years my wife and I raised our family in an older community with many beautiful boulevard trees but very few young families. Despite our best efforts, our neighbours were aloof and at times confrontational, but we loved our little home and the family we were building there. Last summer, we made the big decision to move. Although it s a short distance away from the old house, our new neighbourhood is completely different. The week we moved in, neighbours came out of their houses to welcome us to the community. People passing by stopped to chat. We found ourselves surrounded by families with children eager to welcome new kids into their games. It wasn t just a surface friendliness that wore off once we got settled; over the past year, we have been blown away by the kindness and generosity of our neighbours. This football season, my son ran home from a playdate excited that our neighbours had offered us two tickets to the CFL game that evening. We love sports and the game was starting right away. My wife and I quickly discussed the logistics and sent my son back out to let the family know he and I would love to join them. Unfortunately, we had taken a bit too long and they were already driving away. My son broke into tears of disappointment. Reaching for my cell, I called them and they assured us the tickets were ours if we could get to the game. Meanwhile, the retired couple from across the street had noticed the commotion of us trying to flag down the departing vehicle and quickly offered to drive us to the stadium so we wouldn t have to worry about parking. I was amazed! What a gift! My son and I enjoyed the game immensely thanks to the generosity of our neighbours. Thinking of my new neighbourhood, I can t help but be reminded of Jesus words in Mark s Gospel The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these. (Mark 12: 31 NIV). Our neighbourhood has become a practical model of this commandment for our children, and we have found the generosity around us is contagious. It fills me with joy when I see my children emulating the kindness they see around them. Shortly after we moved in, our nine-year-old announced he d invited some neighbourhood kids over for dinner. My wife and I encouraged him to invite their parents as well, and we enjoyed a lovely dinner getting to know them. Another time, our son invited some of the neighbourhood boys over to play video games, and before we knew it we had a houseful of kids playing and sharing a meal together. We ve had more neighbours over for brunch and dinner in the past year than we did in the previous ten years in our old neighbourhood. For a school fundraiser, we bought two cases of apples, and my wife made apple pies that the kids and I delivered to some of our neighbours. In the winter, we shovel the driveway for a single mom down the street and help mow her lawn in the spring. It doesn t feel like hard work, either. In fact, there is an atmosphere of easy joy about it. I see this same joy when I am helping clients plan their giving using Abundance Canada services, and I feel so privileged to assist in their generosity journeys. I have always been delighted by the connection I see between generous living and generous giving among my clients. Since our family move, this connection has become even clearer to me. Each day, my new neighbourhood teaches me that it really is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35 NIV). And we have been blessed so richly. Kevin Davidson is a Gift Planning Consultant with Abundance Canada, serving generous people in Calgary and across Alberta. Abundance Canada is a 100% donor advised, faith-based organization and the solution for charitable giving in your lifetime and with your estate. Visit to learn more about our services or call today to arrange to meet with a Gift Planning Consultant in your area. Abundance Canada office p The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5

27 In Search of... HEPBURN GOSPEL CHURCH is prayerfully seeking a FULL-TIME PASTOR. We are a multigenerational (EMMC) congregation with an average Sunday morning attendance of approximately 80 people. We at HGC are looking for a pastor who has the heart of a shepherd, is mature in his knowledge of the Word, is self-motivated with good communication skills, has a desire to see our church grow through reaching the lost and invests in the people of the church. He should have strong preaching and teaching skills. Some pastoral experience is preferred, but all applicants will be considered. He must be in agreement with our EMMC statement of faith. We are an evangelical church with a heart for missions. We are located in Hepburn, Saskatchewan, a small, friendly town just 25 minutes north of Saskatoon. For further information or to submit a resume please send to: Hepburn Gospel Church Attention Pastoral Search Committee Box 288 Hepburn, SK S0K 1Z0 david.ironside@hotmail.com WINKLER BERGTHALER MENNONITE CHURCH, located in Winkler, Manitoba is seeking a FULL- TIME ASSOCIATE PASTOR to serve the seniors of our congregation. We hold to the Anabaptist theology and have accepted The Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective. We are currently not affiliated with a Conference. Presently we share our facility with another congregation. Ideal candidates would have the following: Experience working in a church setting (preaching, pastoral care) Outgoing personality and have a heart for working with seniors Our congregation consists primarily of seniors. This position would focus on visitations (both home and hospital), preaching, and teaching (which includes Bible Study and / or Adult Sunday School class). This is a full time position but would be open to considering an application for a part time. Please submit resumes to: Search Committee, Winkler Bergthaler Mennonite Church Box 1207, Winkler, MB R6W 4B2 to: wbmc@mts.net WINKLER BERGTHALER MENNONITE CHURCH, located in Winkler, Manitoba is seeking an experienced, FULL-TIME LEAD PASTOR. We hold to the Anabaptist theology and have accepted The Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective. We are currently not affiliated with a Conference. Presently we share our facility with another congregation. We invite applications from candidates with: Strong interpersonal skills Experience working in a church setting (preaching, teaching, and pastoral care) Commitment to Anabaptist theology An attitude of servant leadership Post-secondary religious education Our congregation consists primarily of seniors. This position would focus on preaching and teaching, some visitation, leadership to staff, working with the Church Council Leadership Team as they prayerfully discern vision and strategy, and some administration. Please submit resumes to: Search Committee Winkler Bergthaler Mennonite Church Box 1207 Winkler, MB R6W 4B2 to: wbmc@mts.net EMC = Evangelical Mennonite Conference EMMC = Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference Bolivia San Jose, Bolivia RADIO WORKER For Radio del Campo Boliviano This person or couple will be well grounded, born again believers in Jesus Christ. They will feel the call from God for this ministry. This work will involve living and working in the town of San Jose de Chiquitos, Bolivia. They will come with financial support that will provide housing, transportation and their everyday living. This couple/person will be fluent in Low German. Spanish would be an asset. Spanish language training can be provided. The radio work will include live on-air, preparation and interviewing and other related duties. The balance of their time will be spent in connecting with their audience. They must have the ability to communicate clearly and articulate their words well. It would be preferred (not a must) that this worker also have an Old Colony accent / pronunciation. This couple will be considered long-term missionaries with MEM and will be paid according to the mission policy guidelines. For more information, please contact: Bill Kehler, MEM Field Director billk@emmc.ca Abe Giesbrecht, Missions Facilitator abeg@emmc.ca Ph: Volunteer Opportunity Concordia Hospital Spiritual Care The Bereavement Care Program of Concordia Hospital in Winnipeg MB is urgently seeking volunteers who are able to provide TELEPHONE GRIEF SUPPORT MINISTRY, to family members of people who have died at the Hospital. This is an ideal opportunity for a person with a health care, ministry or counseling background. If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please contact Bob Milks at , bmilks@concordiahospital.mb.ca. Did you know Everyone attending an EMMC Congregation has access to the bimonthly conference publication, The Recorder. Some of you receive it in your church mailbox. If you would like to receive this FREE magazine at your home address, please contact us at or info@emmc.ca We will gladly add you to our mailing list! There is no charge. You can also access current and back issues of The Recorder on-line at September / October 2017, Volume 54, Number 5 The Recorder 27

28 Back Page THE RECORDER EMMC 757 St. Anne s Road Winnipeg, Manitoba CANADA R2N 4G6 Publications Mail Agreement # Publication Mail Registration # The Recorder, September / October 2017 Volume 54, Number 5