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Nov. 12, 2014 Colleen McFarland,
Director of Archives and Records Management Mennonite Church USA 1700 S Main St Goshen, IN 46526
Dear Colleen,
We are pleased to know that Mennonite Church USA has received a grant to digitize the print files of Gospel Herald and The Mennonite.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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I
POSTMASIER
mil NEWTOM, KANSAS'
The Mennonite
"Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid which is Jesus Christ.
\'0I UME LIX ivT/^n^rxJ XT17^irmXT Tv^ A TVl Is: A 's lAMIIAkV A Tn/IA NUMBER I
En.e„d .. pos. offloe N.nj; Newton, K.nsas.as g^^S.^I'^V^SS^^^^^
NORTH NEWTON, KANSAS, JANUARY 4, 1944
Christian Education in the Home
By J. Marc Jantzen
A study of the life of Jesus as recorded in the New Testament indicates that Joseph and Mary, in their rearing practices, tried to follow the Mosaic precepts as given in Dueteronomy 6:6-7, "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children and thou shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Through such educational agencies as the home and the Jewish synagogue, Jesus in- creased in wisdom (intellectually), in stature (physi- cally), and in favor with God (spiritually) and with men (socially).
The three social institutions that have for cen- turies been in primary regulating agencies in the complicated process of growth and development from infancy into adulthood in all of its aspects have been the home, the church, and the school. During the last twenty-five years many responsibilities for- merly assumed by the home have been shifted to the teachers in our schools. Whereas, the father formerly taught the boy such trades as blacksmith- ing, shoe making, and cabinet making; while mother instructed the girl in sewing, baking, and child care, we now expect the schools to give such training. Church and home gave the boy and girl a thorough foundation in the Christian religion, resulting in high moral standards. During the 1920's the edu- cational leaders were doing everything possible to teach "character" to our boys and girls, while dur- ing the 1930's they tried to develop the "person- alities" of our young people, yet the number of cases of juvenile delinquency has shown an increase instead of a decrease.
From the foregoing discussion it might be con- cluded that the schools have failed in their task. With respect to educating individuals to a senge of ; greater responsibility toward themselves, their fel- I lowmen, and to God they have failed, but it was not the school's sole task in the first place. Rather it is the home that has failed by shifting the major responsibility of developing proper moral controls
onto the schools. The latter is a valuable adjunct in this task, but the parents must assume their full share of the rearing task through a program of sym- pathetic guidance and an understanding of child behavior.
In the discussion that follows, the writer presents several suggestions that may serve parents as guid- ing principles in dealing with their children. These suggestions may be criticized as being too general and not meeting specific problems. It should be kept in mind that Jesus gave us underlying princi- ples that have been operative for nearly 2000 years; he did not present a list of commands of what a Christian might do or not do. He has left it to each generation to make the interpretations and applications within the framework of those princi- ples.
1. As the child learns to be a responsible partici- pant in family affairs, the parental controls should become progressively less and less necessary. The son or daughter should be given due consideration in deciding family matters. The nature of the situ- ation in which an individual finds himself at birth demands complete domination from parents, or very nearly so, in supplying the necessary care in the form of food, shelter, clothing, and affection. As the child grows and develops into an individual in his own right, this domination must become pro- gressively less. During the period of adolescence, roughly from twelve to eighteen years, the boy or girls changes from a pattern of dependency upon parents to interdependency upon those of his own group. Out of this emerges the adult pattern of group responsibility, a feeling that "I am my brother's keeper," that what I do does concern the welfare of my fellowman, and his activities help shape my form of behavior. That type of parental domina- tion or control is desirable which makes itself pro- gressively less and less necessary as the child matures toward adulthood.
2. The learning process is always an active process in which the learner must do something on his part in
(Continued on page 12)
Page Two
An Interesting Community
I had the privilege of visiting in the Freeman South Dakota, community from JDecember lo to 15. Riding with some Frcemanites in the small motor stage that runs from Sioux Falls to Freeman, it soon became apjjarent that I was coming to a friendly rura,] community where people were unreserved and enjoyed sharing community news.
Soon after my arrival in Freeman I was swinging along in the "College Plymouth" to a meeting of the Silver Lake Mennonite Brethren Church. There and in the following days it soon became evident that there was a healthy cooperation among different branches of Mennonites — Mennonite Brethren, Krim- mer Mennonite Brethren, Hutterite, and General Conference churches all having a share in Freeman Junior College. After the sermon President J. D. Unruh led a business meeting relative to the establish- ing of an old people's home. A survey that had been taken in the various churches showed a goodly number of people in favor of such an, institution. Further investigations are to be made by the com- mittee in charge. The fact that there were a number of Freeman Junior College teachers on this com- mittee is suggestive of the point that our schoolmen can and ought to be instrumental in the planning and building of our Mennonite communities.
On Saturday a cold south wind swept across the fields and against the college buildings which stand on the south edge of Freeman. Looking out of the windows of Memorial Hall one could see miles of farm land.
Freeman Junior College is a school that serves a rural community and that i^ dependent upon it. When crops fail— as they largely did for eight years or so in the thirties — then farmer and faculty in- comes both fall- Possession of otherwise productive land encourages a farmer to "stick out" such years. However, a faculty member does not have any such tangible possessions to encourage him to endure dry, hard years.
Truly those men and women who stayed with. Freeman Junior College during very lean years in order that the school might remain open deserve Christian honor. Would they have done it if they had not had their minds and hearts set upon the heavenly treasurers that come from teaching in a Christian school? Like Paul they have sacrificed to serve. Like Paul they are worthy of material re- muneration for the spiritual service rendered- If this point is remembered by the community in these years of greater ability to give, then it will safe- guard for itself continued spiritual blessings for the future.
Freeman Junior College, which offers a full aca- demy course, is suggestive of what Mennonite-run
January 4
high schools or academies could accomplish in some of our other communities. In our church schools we have the right to emphasize an ujilook to God through- out the whole day. In our ])ublic schools this can- not be done. The consecrated Christian parent will send his son or daughter to a church school when confronted with the choice of spending a half a hundred dollars either for some new home furnishing or for the tuition charges involved. We have a num- ber of Mennonite academies. More of our young people should attend them.
Sunday morning I found myself in the large meet- inghouse of the (South) Salem Church of which Brother Willard Claassen is pastor. In the hallway was a "thermometer" which indicated that this church had already contributed several hundred dollars above its 1943 C.P-S. quota by December 12. During the Sunday school period I had the pleasure of observing a class that used the Mennonite Junior Quwrterly. From the pointed summaries of the stories and from the interest shown in the activity exercises, one could sense that the quarterly was well-liked. After Sun- day school the church decided to consider the 100 Percent Subscription Plan to our church papers on the following Sunday. Shaking hands after church helped to fix the name "Preheim "rather indelibly in my mind.
For dinner I went to a farmstead that had some unusual points about it. Noticing the beautiful stone- work on the place and the beautiful mural paintings on hayloft door and machineshed door, one easily came to the conclusion that the person who developed this farmstead was highly gifted and strongly con- vinced that a farmstead should be a place of beauty as well as a place of utility. A visit with the pastor of the South Church and his family that late after- noon revealed the substantial two-story parsonage that this church has provided. The pastor also ad- mitted the editor into the room where he has a neat printing press on which he turns out some good jobs.
That evening it was my privilege to become ac- quainted with the Huttertal Church near Freeman. The smell that assailed us when we first approached the porch of the meeting house suggested that the boys of the community should be even more ex- tensive in their trapping. However, inside it was cozy, and there we learned to know Rev. Hofer, the active pastor of the church, who does a good job of teaching school besides his church work.
Monday evening and an enjoyable visit in the Alfred Waltner home before services at the Bethesda Church. In this church there is more of a low-German touch than in the "South" and "North" churches which are made of Swiss people- Founder's Day dawned with the thermometer (Continued on page 11)
THE MENNONITE
3
FOREIGN MISSIONS
, p. H. RICHERT, Secretary
GIFTS UNTO THE LORD t was the fall of the year. In the rice fields only bble was left. It had been a happy harvest time, there had been much rice. In the gardens there •e radishes, large squash, beans, and lentils and , ripe pumpkins had been stored away in safe ners of the house. Now the farmers were harvest- peanuts and sweet potatoes. it the church services a few Sundays before, the .ngelist had reminded all the Christians to get dy for the harvest festival. They all had much to thankful for and no one should come to the gather- empty-handed. Revindra sat very straight. In ! house there was much rice and enough of every- iig. It would be easy for him to bring a gift, huel thought happily of the little chicken that was be his offering. The evangelist had also said t there would be special guests. How nice that Jld be!
harvest festival day drew near. This year it 3 to be an evening service because then the Sahib 1 the Memsahiba could be there. The moon was lost full. It would be pleasant to be out. Prepar- es were being made and offerings laid aside. Only 'ie home of Sita and little Philip there was so little ±oose from. Father had been sick during the year that he could not stay with his weaving steadily, d there were so many mouths to feed that nothing r went far enough. What would there be for each bring?
'ust the day before the meeting, one of the big age farmers was harvesting his peanut crop. And is an unwritten rule in India that as soon as a !ner finishes harvesting a field then the children 1 the poor may come in to glean. Ten-year-old I was there with her wee basket. She had a plan. ! would glean peanuts and bring them as her of- ng. Carefully she searched the ground and vied h others in the scramble for what had been left, ^nd what would Philip have to bring? He also nd a place to glean — a sweet potato field^ — wee atoes scarcely bigger than walnuts and probably 16 as large as good American eggs. Indian chil- ti love the sweet potato eaten just as it comes n the ground or boiled in water. But Sita's pea- s and Philip's sweet potatoes were carefully set le for that evening.
ileeting time arrived. One by one the families le forward with their offerings — fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters and sometimes even the wee lies had pice pressed into their wee hands. From evangelist's family came a big basket of rice. God
Page Three
had blessed their fields. A weaver brought some cloth. There were eggs, chickens, vegetables, and various sized baskets of rice. On the table the money gifts were placed. Sita £md Philip also came with their offering.
After the prayer of dedication there was a short sermon. Then the things brought were auctioned off to the highest bidder. There were some who bought back the gift they had given at more than the market price. When some of the young boys picked up enough courage to bid on things there were smiles from the grownups. Everyone seemed to be enjojdng themselves.
When the dish with the peanuts was held up the Memsahiba thought, "I must buy those for the Sahib because he likes peanuts so well." They finally sold for five pice, about three cents. Then the little dish with the sweet potatoes was put up and the Sahib bought them for the Memsahiba to cook. He paid three pice.
Meeting over and good nights said and the Sahib and the evangelist were checking up the account of the sale. The Memsahib looked over her purchases. "Strange that anyone would have brought such wee, runty peanuts or such poor sweet potatoes. Gener- ally people bring the best for an offering," thought the Memsahiba to herself.
Turning to the evangelists she said, "Who brought these peanuts and sweet potatoes?" The evangelist answered softly, "Those are the gifts of Sita and Philip." When the Memsahiba heard how Sita and Philip had gotten those things, her eyes filled with tears. Truly these were love gifts. How their mouths must have watered to eat up their gleanings. But they had denied themselves that they might have something to give. Perhaps their gift was more in the Lord's sight than the larger gifts that others had given out of their abundance. Would they not rank with that of the widow who gave her all? She looked at those wee peanuts and small sweet potatoes in a new way. And her prayer was, "God bless those dear children."
— C. Duerksen
Letter from Albert Jantzens
On December 29, 1943, Rev. and Mrs. John Lichti, Deer Creek, Oklahoma, wrote to the editor: "We rejoice in receiving our first letter from our chil- dren, the Jantzens in the Philippines, on Decem- ber 27. We enclose a copy of her letter; will you please bring it in The Mennonite. Dear readers, continue to pray for all our interned missionaries. May God continue to protect them in the future as in the past."
Camp Holmes Internment Camp Baguio, Philippines
August 19, 1943
M 5"^- THE MENNONITE
THE MENNONITE
Page lu)ur
Dear ones all,
We are glad Uir this opijoiiuiiily to vvrilc to you. We were certainly glad to hear from you, Grandma and Edward. Your letters both arrived on Albert's birthday. When you wrote them, you had just broken your arm, (irandpa. Wc hope that all of you are well now.
We arc all four well and happy. The children have grown a lot. Lyman is no longer a baby, but a big, three-year-old boy and weighs 37 pounds, Grace Joan 51 pounds, Albert 154, and I 140. The children have just finished another year of school. Grace Joan has been promoted to the fourth grade, and Lyman is ready for Kindergarten. We have school for the youngsters from Kindergarten through high school. There are many capable teachers here.
Our community consists of about 500 inmates, prac- tically all of the professional class; missionaries, teachers, doctors and nurses, miners and business men. We are a congenial group and are faring quite well in spite of occasional sickness. God is most graciously near us from day to day and month to month, and is blessing us. Grace and Lyman have had light cases of dysentery several times, but are well now. Any physical disorder that arises receives immediate attention in our own little hospital.
In general we run things here on a communal basis, "having all things in common;" common kit- chen, common dining room, etc. The work is allotted equally among all able-bodied individuals so that all necessary work is taken care of if every man spends about three and one-half hours a day for the camp and every woman about two and one-half hours. The work is all done gratis. At present Albert is chopping wood and cutting hair. He used to wash dishes and he also worked in the garden. We are permitted to change work from time to time to avoid monotony. I supervise the small children on the playground and also clean floors. I used to help with the rice cleaning, but I find my present work more satisfactory because I can watch Lyman better. We do our family washing together. These jobs with the mending and a little supplementary cooking and baking keep one busy. Albert spends as much time as possible in reading and studying. We have regular Sunday school, church services, and Bible classes.
The Dirks and Wuthrichs are here too and all well. Please, notify their parents. When possible, please, send clothing and powdered milk. We think it would be best if you send a few clothes for me and the chil- dren and have Albert's folks send clothes for him. T.yman is large and takes about a four year size (not larger), and Grace only about a seven-year size. I think that the dresses you sent before would fit her now. Do not rush things, though.
With much love to all of you, and greetings to all
January
friends, ever committing you into God's care,
Albert, Wilma, Grace Joan and Lym (signed) Albert and Wilma Jantzfen and childr
Letter from Lester Wuthrich
Camp Holmes Internment Car Baguio, Philippines August 21, 1943
Mr. P>ed Wuthrich Whitewater, Kansas, U.S.A.
My dear folks:
Through the courtesy of the Imperial Japan Army Administration we have been granted privilege of writing to you. We are very thank for the opportunity. I hardly know what to wi since it has been so long since we have last writt We are both very well for which we praise G' The Lord has been very good to us and helped us many ways.
We have been interned here since December 1 94 1. There are a few over 500 in this camp.
We are so glad that it is cool most of the tii but yet not cold. The rainy season will be over about another month. We have electric lights, runn water, and plenty of food. It consists mainly rice, vegetables, fruit and meat. We do our 1 cooking and other work, including cutting w( taking away garbage, etc. The ladies work on v tables, pick rice, do laundry and other things .
The Dirks and Janzens are here also with us are well. Please notify their parents. The D and Janzens have both received letters from relati in the States some time ago, but we are still wai for our first letter from you. Time goes fast here, it does seem like a long time since we have h( from you. We think of you often and wonder '. you are and are praying for you daily. Think pecially of Roland and John and others.
There are over 100 missionaries in this cam Almost every denomination is represented- We tainly hope you had good crops last harvest. It be very warm there now.
We are longing and praying for the day when can continue our missionary work Hoping to from you soon- Until then, God bless you is h prayer.
Love, I Lester WutHdi
WEEK OF, PRAYER TOPICS
The Week of Prayer Topics have not been ^rt sented this year because the editor received his ifip^ to late for the pre-Christmas issue. The issue |t6j Christmas was delayed too long for them to apjeaj in time. We hope to bring them early in Deceijbe next year. "'"^
43
THE MENNONITE
Page Five
Mennonites in Latin America
By S. C. YODER
ARGENTINA
Mennonitism in Latin America is of very recent igin. The first beginning of it came as a result missionary effort organized and carried on by the d Mennonites. The work started in 191 7 when jv. and Mrs. T. K. Hershey and Rev. and Mrs. W. Shanli arrived in Buenos Aires. The next year ljj station was opened at Pehuajo, 216 miles south- [4;st of the capital city, and the first converts were ought into the church. Since then the number of ;te| embers has increased to more than six himdred, id several strong and active congregations have been tablished. This attempt to implant the Mennonite ith into a Latin culture was an experiment, but it iS yielded gratif3dng results and has confirmed the aims of the gospel as a religion for all men. Those 10 have accepted the faith have caught the spirit at marks the Mermonites the world around.
MEXICO
i Previous to the large migrations that began after
ter the World War, there were several abortive ''I tempts on the part of real estate companies to
l ionize Mennonites in Mexico and the Central Amer- f|in states, but none of them proved successful. It ^lis not until 1922 when the migrations from Canada ' Mexico began, that permanent and successful col- ics were planted on Latin American soil. These
ivements continued until more
m 9,000 souls had found homes
fifty-three villages, in the state
Chihuahua near Cuauhtemoc,
ere in an oval-shaped valley
•rounded by low mountains a
urishing colony was established.
second setlement was opened a-
it the same time at Patos, in
' state of Durango, where some
00 are now located. Later re was an attempt to bring ae of the Russian Mennonite fugees into Mexico, but this iture proved unsuccessful, and
larger number of those who iCjie finally made their way to ajir friends in the United States
1 Canada, or were absorbed in- the life of the colonies in Mex-
PAR AGU A Y
The Menno Colony
The same wave of discontent that landed some of the Canadian Mennonites in Mexico brought the first ones to Paraguay. Being dissatisfied with conditions in Canada as a result of developments that grew out of the war in 19 14-19 18, these people like their co-relig- ionists who had gone to Mexico, sought a home in other lands and finally located in the Gran Chaco of Para- guay. They reached their lands early in 1927. At this date (1943) this settlement, known as the Menno Colony, consists of more than twenty villages located in a primitive wilderness completely cut off from the outside world, and contains over two thousand souls.
The Fernhelm Colony
Late in the 1920's Canada declined to admit any more alein refugees who had no money or means of establishing themselves. This cut off the large stream of Mennonites that had been flowing into the country from the Ukraine, Siberia, and parts of Russia. Con- sequently, when in 1929 some three thousand succeed- ed in getting across the border into Germany, it be- came necessary to find some other place for them to locate. The attempt to colonize these refugee groups in Mexico had not proved successful. Germany could not absorb any more into her life at that time. The way to other countries seemed closed, so the eyes of those wanderers turned to South America which seem-
ON THE WAY FROM HARBIN, CHINA, TO PARAGUAY
Shown here aboard a French liner are some adults and a lar^e group of children from Russian Mennonite families. Several hundred Mennonites fled from Siberia to Harbin, China. Through the influence of the Mennonite Central Committee they were led to Icoate in Paraguay. The j>icture above shows some of them on their trip from Harbin to Paraguay.
Page Six
THE MENNONITE
January
ed to oflVr I ho only hope for them at that time.
The Mennonite Central Committee offered to assist in every possible way, those who would go to Paraguay and to help them find homes on a tract adjoining the Menno Colony. Between i,6oo and 1,700 availed themselves of this oi)portunity and by the end of 1930 they were located on their new lands, some 350 miles north of Asuncion and about 150 miles in the Chaco.
With characteristic zeal they set themselves to the task of home building, the digging of wells, clearing of land and planting of crops. It was a new world to them. The climate, the products, and the environment was different from anything they were accustomed to. Life was hard. Disease broke out among them, and in the absence of medical care, death took a heavy toll of their numbers. Internal difficulties rose over col- ony management which together with dissatisfaction with the location and climate finally led to divisions and the establishment of several new settlements, one of which is located some distance east of Conception and is known as the Horquette Colony. The other and larger defection took place in 1937 when about 150 families left Fernheim and founded Friesland about thirty miles inland from Rosario on the Paraguay River.
In 1932 the Fernheim Colony was joined by sever- al hundred Mennonites, who had made their way from Siberia to Harbin, China, and who through the influ- ence of the Mennonite Central Committee had been led to locate in the Paraguayan settlement. Between 1930 and 1933 about fifty Mennonites from Poland, who had become dissatisfied with conditions in their native land, joined the group in Fernheim where they estab- lished a new village call Rosenfeld. They, however, did not prosper and in the course of time were absorb- ed into the other villages.
THE BRAZILIAN COLONIES But Paraguay and Mexico were not the only coun- tries of Latin American to receive Mennonite settlers. Largely through the influence of the Holland groups and through the efforts of The Hanseatic Colonization Company of Hamburg, about 1,300 of those who came across the frontier into Germany in 1930 went to Bra- zil. The land which they occupy lies along the Krauel River in the State of Santa Catharina about 1,500 miles inland from the sea coast. The district is known as "Hammonia." The colonies that lie in the river valley were named Witmarsam, Waldeim, and Gnad- ental.
Because of the topography of the country it was soon discovered that the available lands in the Krauel Valley were insufficient to furnish homes for all of the settlers. This led to the opening of a new settlement located on what is known as the Stoltz Plateau about a thousand feet above the river valley. This colony was named "Auhagen."
In 1934 the settlements of Hammonia, including all
those along the Krauel River, and the one on 1| Stoltz Plateau were augmented by arrivals in cons erable numbers of refugees who had escaped across 1 Amur River into China and had congregated at H bin.
But life was hard and the patience and endurai of the settlers was taxed to the utmost. As in Pa guay dissatisfaction rose over local management a with the location of the settlements. This resulted! a withdrawal of about sixty-five families from mother colonies and the establishment of a new one Curtyba in the state of Parana, where they took dairying. They were more successful in this venti and in the course of time they virtually took over milk business of the city.
Until well into the first quarter of the present c tury Mennonitism has had little contact with Spanish American culture. What the future he for these new implantations only time can tell. E ing the past years there has been much unrest i dissatisfaction among the colonists, but no doi they are more attached to their surroundings t| they realize. Much progress has already been m and in addition to the building of homes and cultivation of the soil a number of progressive 1 dustries have been developed in some of the colorl
One of their great concerns is how to main i their faith and cultural heritage in the midst of ts alien surroundings. From the beginning they \ been busy with their schools, their churches, i hospitals. When one reviews the past history of group of which these colonists are a part and ( gether with that he sees the response of the L'" American to the gospel as it is taught through! Mennonite missions, he is satisfied to leave thei suits with the Lord and with the future, withfl confidence that out of this missionary effort as e as out of the influence of these colonization er; prises will come a church that will bear the es:i tial stamp of Mennonitism in faith, in life, ann character, and that the true spirit of our foreb:: will not only be conserved in the home, in busii s^ in the church, and in the school, but that it M govern every contact that is made with the S( ia| groups among which these people live.
ALL-OUT FOR CHRIST The task of living in the spirit of Christ is not is, unless we are completely willing to give ourselvd 8 Christ. We may have to make some so-called :* rifices which are usually only the giving up of sm material, woridly pleasures. Let us commit oursiw completely to the spirit of Jesus and part with U ries. We must trust God and our fellow men. W; must return to the simple life of calmness, indiv u| conviction, and a concern for the welfare of ouife! low men all over the world. '
— Katherine R3
1943
THE MENNONITE
Page Seven
Are We Preparing for World War III?
By Barbara C. Smucker
On school playgrounds all over the United States today children are playing war. The boys lie on the ground with tiny sticks for guns. They point them toward the sky and when a bird flys over they yell "Jap" and then "ack-ack-ack-ack, I've shot him down."
Toy counters at Christmas were minus bicycles, trains, sleds, and other childhood essentials — but they were glutted with guns, small soldiers, machine guns, army tanks, service uniforms, and other miniatures of war. In a very real sense the children of our nation are at war!
Of course, it is rather natural for war-minded par- ents to have war-minded children. It is false to expect children to rise above the morals of their elders. But many of our heartsick folks hoping and praying for peace should probe deeper into the meaning of this supposedly innocent fun of war games. Perhaps, this play looks harmless enough on the surface, but what is it fundamentally doing? Isn't the child beginning to think of war as a fascinating regular event in society — an event which he is someday to participate in — an event thoroughly approved by the adults about him? The aggressive, violent, destructive little tenden- cies of his personality are nurtured under this system and allowed to grow and materialize.
Not too many years ago a Kansas editor, Nelson Antrim Crawford, wrote a small book called Your Child Faces War. In it he said:
"A safe and peaceful world must be a world in which violence among people is disapproved ... In- asmuch as actions speak louder than words, the exam- ple of the parents is of the utmost importance. They should avoid violence themselves, in word and tone of voice as well as overt acts. They should be careful to avoid expressing approval of violence. This tabu, if it is to be of any value, must be absolute. The child under five has no capacity for drawing hairline distinc- tions. One can't teach him that it is wrong to shoot the man who lives next door but right to kill the sol- dier of Patagonia with which the nation is at war. It may be a significant fact that a very large proportion of the dangerous criminals of today are in their early twenties. They were very young children during our participation in the World War. At that time Amer- icans who stayed at home were in a veritable orgy of violent talk. There was rejoicing in our homes over the killing of the enemy. The hope was freely ex- pressed that German babies might be murdered in the same way that it was falsely reported Belgian infants had been massacred. Parents were at a high pitch of emotion. It is not surprising that children accepted violence as a normal way of life and that the more un- fortunate ones, unreached by tabus at adolescence, en-
tered upon careers of robbery and murder."
This is a sobering thought; especially for Menno- nites. We have a religious heritage which has grown out of anguish and martrydom opposing the world's violence in order to live the love which Christ preached to those who sought the Kingdom of God.
It is difficult to oppose the neighborhood gang in their daily warfare with the Japs and Germans. It is time-consuming to plan alternative recreation that plums the constructive geniuses of all our children. Our society seems too hurried to find time for the daily family worship of Bible reading and prayer. It is baffling to compete with school, radio, picture shows, books, magazines, and the Sunday funnies with their lurid and hair-raising approval of war. But parents must do it, prayerfully, constantly, and patiently.
Our children should know that the bombs and "ack- ack guns" kill and destroy the homes of little children. And that war has caused the pitiful starved bodies of small boys and girls all over the world. How mucb. more humane and Christian it is to save pennies for the starved and unclothed children of war and part-^ icipate generally in the Good Samaritan activities of the Mennonite Central Committee. Here the innocent love of the little child is harnessed to the Cross rather than the sword; here the symbol of work is a lamb and not a bomb!
It would be well for all of us to heed the words of Menno Simons when he wrote long ago on the Educa- tion of Children:*
"The world desire for their children that which is earthly and perishable, such as money, honor, fame and wealth. From infancy they train them up to vice, pride, haughtiness and idolatry. But with you, who are born of God, this is not the case: for it behooves you to seek something else for your children; namely, that which is heavenly and eternal, and hence it is yow duty to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the lord."
* Complete Works of Menno Simons, Vol. k, p. 274
TRUE GREATNESS
We in America, somehow have the idea that we have to go fast, that anything large is of great value — big houses, huge churches, colleges, cities, and na- tions. What is important, rather than this, is the great teacher in the small college, a great Christian in his own community, and the presence of Christ in a small church. William James, a well-known teacher in a large university says, "I am done with big things, great organizations and big successes. And I am for those tiny invisible forces, which, if you give them time, will rend the hardest monuments of man's pride."
— Katherine Regier
Page I'lighl
THE MENNONITE
DAILY DEVOTIONAL MESSAGES
■ By Rev. Howard Raid, Fortuna, Missouri
January 4
JANUARY 9—". . . hecaus.e the Lord lialli anoint- ed Die lo preach tidings unto the meek." Isaiah 61:1 We can say that Jesus came to spealc to all who would open their hearts to Him. All who will sub- mit to Him will hear His message. Jesus did not come with a sword forcing people to submit to Him, rather He came to stir up the Kingdom of God with- in us and to tune it with Himself. But only the people who are meek or will become meek and will consent to hear, will hear.
JANUARY 10— "As Jesus sat at meat in his house, many ^publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and His disciples." Mark 2:15
This feast was at Levi's house for his friends, in honor of Levi's joining with and following Christ. He would be pleased today, if we could celebrate more disciples following Him. You say Jesus was eating at the table with publicans and sinners. ^ Yes, He was never afraid to mingle with sinners in or- der to show them His way of life. JANUARY II— "Ca?z the children of the bridecham- ber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?" Mark 2:
19 . .
Jesus would not take the old form and put it into
His religion until the form fitted or until the time was ready. Fasting was the traditional way to show religious feeling, especially of sorrow. But Jesus said that there was no need for it yet among His followers, they should be happy for He was still with them. In other words, Jesus was not going to accept the old form of religious thinking and belief unless it really had some place in His teachings. As yet, fasting did not.
JANUARY 12 — "Therefore the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." Mark 2:28
We have sometimes taken the verse before this one to be our only guide for Sabbath use, and then we have interpreted it to mean that whatever man wanted to do was all right to do on the Sabbath. The Lord is ruler of the Sabbath as well as of the other days of the week. The things that we do on the Sabbath are to aid us in bringing the Kingdom of God into our lives the other six days of the week.
JANUARY 13 — "Is it lawful to do good on the Sab- bath day, or to do evil? to save life? ar to Ml?" Mark 3:4
Wherever there was any question which involved really helping some human beings, Jesus always cut straight across all tradition, beliefs, and laws that would hold Him back, in order to help. Jesus would not put off until Sunday, some task that He could have done during the week, nor would He plan to
do certain tasks on the Sabbath just because they were good tasks. But if it happened that He could relieve suffering on the Sabbath He would quickly take advantage of the situation.
JANUARY 14— "For He healed many ..." Mark 3:10
Jesus healed the sick physically, mentally, and spir- itually. He knew that many were following Him in order that He might heal their physical ailments, then they would be satisfied and go their way. Jesus did not withhold His healing from any who asked it. Remember, He healed the ten lepers physically for they had asked for His mercy, but only one came back and thanked Him. This one He healed spirit- ually also.
JANUARY 15 — "And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand." Mark 3:25
The Bible tells us that we are made in the image of God. Jesus told the unsaved Pharisee "Behold the Kingdom of God is within you," Luke 17:21. This then, means that we have the Kingdom of God within ourselves; each one of us carries the image of God within. If we sin, then we sin not only against God beyond us but also against God within us. We are literally a "House divided against itself." That is why sin causes us to fall.
JANUARY 16 — "For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." Mark 3:35
The big standard by which we are judged is not the color of our skin, the size of our bank roll, the num- ber of farms we have, the number of degrees wef hold, nor even what church we go to, but what wei do with what we do have . Do we waste it, do we let it set idle, do we let our farms wash away, do we let our children fill their minds with trash, do we let ourselves compromise with evil because we are afraid to stand for what we believe, or do we use all that we have for the upbuilding of the Kingdom of God?
THE MENNONITE
MTeeklv religious lournal of the GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE MENNONITE CHURCH OF NORTH AMERICA Devoted to the interest of the MENNONITE CHURCH and THE CAUSE OF CHRIST, in general , t i Ti- „
Published every Tuesday, except the weeks of J«ly and Christmas, by the Board of Publication of the General Conference.
Business Office: Mennonite Publication Office Newton Kan Editor . . Reynold Weinbrenner, North Newton. Kansas Subscription in advance, $1.75 Foreign, $2.2.^
Address all contributions and commnnications for thif paper, and exchanges, to THE MENNONITE, North Newton
Mail ' aU subscriptions and pay™e»t^ J,"?,^**''? Jl'VlSo.c MENNONITE PTTBT.ICATTON OFFICE. NEWTON. KANSAS
II
1943
THE MENNONITE
Page Nine
Sponsored by the Young People's
Union of the General Conference
EDITOR R. Welnbrenner North Newton, Kansas
Mennonite Youth
"A United Mennonite Youth in Christ'
Y.P.U. OFFICERS
President Ted E. Claassen Newton, Kansas
Arthur Wenger Vice President Shafter, Calif.
Dorothy Dletz Secretary-Treasurer Quakertown, Pa.
Will Ye Heed the Call
By Edna Ramseyer
Have you ever wished that you could prove your convictions on peace and war as your boy friend, husband, brother, or son has? Have you ever won- dered if there are places for Mennonite girls or wo- men to serve as our boys are serving at present?
Or haven't you wondered at all? Have you just considered yourself lucky that you haven't had to? Have you just crossed your fingers, hoping that wo- men would not be drafted; and if so, then you would decide what stand yoil would take?
Girls and women of the Mennonite church groups! Our Christian responsibility to our God, the world, the church, our boys in Civilian Public Service is tremendous. The challenge is before us; the projects await us; the question is, do we as girls and women want to serve? Are we willing to take time out to do the little things that count so much?
This summer sixteen girls from various branches of the Mennonite church accepted this challenge for service and attended the Relief Training School at Goshen College, sponsored by the Mennonite Central Committee. These girls not only deepened their own conviction to help this sick and sinful world, but keenly felt:
(1) That we as Meimonite girls and women should be made more aware of the part that we can and must play as Christian conscientious objector wo- men;
(2) That we as women of all branches of the Mennonite church should develop study groups a- round the topics of Mennonite history, the teachings of Christ, the work of the C. P. S. camps, including detached service, and past, present, and future relief work of the Mennonite Central Committee;
(3) That we should help our brethren bear the reproach of Christ before the world by giving expres- sion to, and developing convictions on, peace and war;
(4) That we enter actively into some of the fol- lowing fields of service which are ready for us as workers :
(a) Join the "Relief Girls" who have been work- ing at some of our state mental hospitals as nurses, dieticians, ward attendants, office helpers, etc.
(b) Take nurses' training or college work in econ-
omics, sociology, history, home economics, language, and Bible, and plan to work with other C. O. groups in C. P. S. camps, mental hospitals, our own Menno- nite hospitals, Puerto Rico, or some foreign unit.
(c) Collect, clean and mend used clothing. Send it to Akron, Pennsylvania.
(d) Order from our Mennonite cutting rooms new clothing which can be sewed by our own missionary societies, and then send it to Mrs. Lydia Lehman, Akron, Pa.
(e) Encourage "Brotherhood gardens," carming and drying of foods for our colleges, C. P. S. camps, hos- pitals, orphanages, and old peoples homes.
(f) Make new toys, collect and redecorate old toys for Japanese evacuees, migrant groups, children's
YOUTH JOTTINGS
— The young people of the Halstead (Kansas) Men- nonite Church put out a news sheet of three mim- eographed pages in December for their twenty-two comrades in the services of the government. — Wayland Mennonite Church: The young people gave a program at the State Hospital at Mt. Pleas- ant on December 12.
— ^Beatrice, Nebraska,: About sixty young people attended a recent bi-weekly fellowship meeting. A fine collection of colored pictures describing the training and work of the "Smoke Jumpers" was shown by Louis Goosen. Louis is one of the "Jump- ers". This fellowship group, which draws members from two Mennonite churches and a Dunkard church as well as from some others, meets on Wednes- day night. This group is now studying one of the "Mennonites and Their Heritage" booklets. — Bulletin, Menno Mennonite Church, Lind, Wash- ington: "Our contribution toward the young peo- ple's retreat grounds for the Canadian young peo- ple was $24.00."
— "A singing voice is a talent God has given to us. To misuse it for profane purposes is indeed a sin. Not to use it at all is also to fail God in His purpose for us." — Bulletin, Bethel Mennonite Church, Moun- tain Lake.
— The Jn-i'or C.E. of the Eden Mennonite Church, Schwenksville, Pa., sent over 100 gifts to Busby, Montana, to be distributed there among the Indian children on Christmas morning.
Page Ten
THE MENNONFI E
January 4
homes, children's hospitals, and poor families.
(g) Organize children's groups to collect soap, pen- cils, tablets, tooth brushes, handkerchiefs, thread, etc., for relief purposes.
(h) Save, collect, and remake old pocketbooks and felt hats into small shoes and slippers for relief.
(i) Make (^hristmas gifts, collect stationery and stamps for our boys in C. P. S. camps, mental hos- pitals, and regular service.
(j) Encourage children and parents to buy peace bonds and raise money for C. P. S. camp work, Mennonite colleges, missions, etc.
(k) Encourage Mennonite women living near C. P. S. camps to mend for the C. P. S. boys.
(1) Encourage people to subscribe to and read var- ious church publications.
(m) Live a conscientious, peaceful, sincere. Chris- tian life.
Shall we as Mennonite women accept these oppor- tunities for service, whether it be in a foreign coun- try, mental hospital. Civilian Public Service camp, or at home. Shall we say, as Moses had been tempted to say, "Lord, we are not prepared, we do not have the ability, we do not have the time"? Or will we say, "Lord, we will do that which thou hast for us to do. We will accept this challenge to spread 'good will to all men,' 'to be our brother's keeper,' 'to help the widowed and the fatherless,' and 'to be peacemakers.' " We will say, "Father, not our will, but thine be done." Girls! Let us prayerfully consider this opportunity. God will lead us into the path which we should take if we but dedicate our lives to Him. Let us use our time, our energy, our bodies, our money, and our minds for His service.
Via C. P. S. Headquarters, Akron, Pa.
SIGNING ON THE DOTTED LINE A Methodist layman visited a great church in Ohio during a business trip. After the service he congratulated the minister on his service and ser- mon. "But," said the manufacturer, "if you were my salesman, I'd discharge you. You got my at- tention by your appearance, voice, and manner; your prayer, reading, and logical discourse aroused my interest; you warmed my heart with a desire for what you preached; and then — and then you stopped, without asking me to do something about it! In busi- ness, the important thing is to get men to sign on the dotted line."
— Alliance Weekly
AN INTERESTING VISITOR in the pastor's study this week was a post-graduate student from the University of Minnesota who had previously been im- pressed by the prosperity and orderliness of our community and who was desirous of learning more about it. Among the questions asked were these: What kind of people live here? Who are the Menn-
MENNONITES and RURAL LIFE
By J. Win field Fretz
RURAL STANDARDS OJ' LIVING
There is a popular acceptance of the opinion that Ihe rural standard of living is far below the urban standard. This raises the immediate question of what is meant by a standard of living.
Dejinition
There are two conceptions of what a standard of living is. One definition or conception holds that a standard of living consists of the accumulation of things — the emphasis is strongly on things. We say the people in the United States have a high standard of living because the number of refrigerators, radios, automobiles, electric stoves, sweepers, razors, etc., per person is greater than anywhere else in the world, that the physical comforts of the American people are greater than those of any other people. Therefore, say some, we have the highest standard of living in the world. The emphasis here is clearly on things- things, things, and more things, and if this is what a standard of living consists gf it is certainly higher in the cities than in the country.
Another Definition
Another notion of what constitutes a high stan- dard of living is not in the accumulation of many material objects but in the use to which one puts the material objects which he possesses and the satisfact- ions which he derives from those uses — also a high standard is determined by the character and attitudes of the people; their honesty, kindliness, helpfulness, cleanliness, and godliness. These are items which the world overlooks or discounts as unimportant in defin- ing a standard of living. // this definition is accepted, rural standards may be as high as the urban.
The tragedy of modern Christianity is that all too many of us who profess to be good Christians (to ourselves if not to anyone else) is that we have accept- ed the former definition. We constantly buy one more thing hoping that this will surely give us happiness. It won't. Material things do not give lasting satis- faction in themselves. This accumulation results only in a high standard on a low plane. The kind of things that give happiness and a really high stan- dard of living can't be bought. It must be done — Paul said "This one thing! do . . ."' Philippians 3:13.
onites? What about them is responsible for such a splendid community? etc. Well, what would you have said? In substance our opinion was that the people had made the church the center of the community and that God had blessed them for it. "Seek ye first the kingdom. . .and all these things shall be added unto you."
— Bulletin, Bethel Mennonite Church, Mountain Lake,
Minnesota
1943
CORRESPONDENCE
BEFORE THE SHUTTERS CLOSE
Greetings from the First Mennonite Church, New- ton. We have knelt at Bethlehem's manger. The holy Christmas day has passed. Already Old Year stands at the window of life with his hands upon the shutters. Before they close forever, let us step to the window to view once more the road that we have tra- veled, that we have traveled as a church. Will you, who have not journeyed with us side by side, come to view the scene with us? Perhaps our joys and sor- rows— is not life made up of these two interchanging experiences? — can be of some blessing to some other struggling heart, or groups of hearts, laboring together as we have tried to labor through this year.
There are times in the individual's life when the fibers of faith are strained and tested by trials. When, by grace, the soul emerges out of its trials victoriously, faith's fibers have added strength and elasticity. So also to a church, come years of testing. They have come to us. Would that, by the grace of God, we would emerge out of the present crisis as victors to toil by the side of the Master with more zeal and stronger faith.
We are facing the same problem that many churches have faced, to find a shepherd for us, needy sheep. Rev. J. E. Entz, who has served us as pastor for the past forty years, has tendered his resignation which is to be voted on in the near future. Dr. A. Warken- tin, though he is slowly gaining strength, will be unable to serve us for some time to come. When this great- est of all problems comes to a church, then it is com- fort, indeed, to know that no other than the Christ, Himself, is the head of the Church. Surely He doth supply shepherds for His sheep. Surely He has plan- ed definitely to meet also our needs. Our prayer is that we might humbly seek His will and lay our own aside that we might work together with Him in the building of His Church in our midst.
Other events have taken place in our church: there have been baptisms, there have been births, and there have been deaths; there have been festivities, there have been marriages; there has been worship and ador- ation and praise; there has been the teaching of the Word. I feel a bit more reluctant to say there has been repentance, forgiveness, confession — when these three become more common in our churches, we shall have more power to work the works of Him that sent us. — There has been so much!
But in our heart there remains only one prayer as we look through the window over which the shutters are slowly closing now,
"Spirit of God, descend upon thine own!" — Joanna S. Andres, Corr.
THE MENNONITE Page Eleven
HOFFNUNGSFELD MENNONITE CHURCH Moundridge, Kansas We can truly say that the Lord was gracious to us in the past year. Couples have been married. Mothers rocked the cradles of several newborn babies. A cate- chism class was conducted and baptized by Missionary Ferdinand Isaac. Communion was observed. Yes, we experienced joy and sorrow. One babtismal candidate was struck by a passing motor and instead of being baptized with the class she was in the hospital suf- fering severe pain. However, after a few months she also was baptized. One casket stood before us. One of our deacons passed away after a short illness. There was an empty chair in the home and the church.
Officers for the next year have been elected. We thank God that men and women are willing to work in the church and help build the Kingdom of God. After dinner was served in the church basement on December 5, we remained seated, and the chairman an- nounced that the afternoon meeting was for getting better acquainted with our pastor. Rev. Gustav Frey, and his family. Gifts were presented to him- Professors Menno Kaufman and Mose Stucky gave encouraging short talks. Rev. Frey also gave a short talk and thanked, stating that the surprize had been successful. Occassions like this strengthen us and draw us closer together. .
Sunday services start at 10 a. m. We kindly invite friends and neighbors. Come and worship with us. Especially those who live at a distance from this church.
— Mrs. Ernest Juhnke, Moundridge, Kan.
An Interesting Community
( Continued from (page 2 ) shivering somewhere around fifteen below — inauger- ating the first intensely cold period of this winter. A goodly number of people came for the services of the day — which were held in commemoration of the purpose and) labor of the founders of the school. There again one became aware of the fine cooperation of the various Mennonite branches.
The day afforded a visit with Rev. Peter J. Stahl, pastor of the Hutterdorf Church. There was a time when Brother Stahl farmed, taught school, and preach- ed. That takes a strong constitution and strong con- secration. Some of the Hutterisch churches have join- ed the Northern District Conference, and they are contributing to the work of our General Conference.
A few more enjoyable visits in homes and it was time to take the bus back to Sioux Falls. Unfortu- nately the time was too short to visit all the General Conference churches and pastors in the community.
— rw.
"Christ came to seek and to save lost ideals, hope, lost enthusiasm, and lost man."
lost
J\igc' Twi'lvc
rilE MENNONITE
January 4
Christian Education in the Home
( Coiilinucd from page 1)
order lo learn; it is not merely a "pouring in" situa- tion in which (he learner passively absorbs so many doses of knowledge. Whether in church, in school, or at home, the child is an active learner, not a passive one. For many centuries we assumed thai "children should be seen not heard." We neglected answering the endless questions which the child from ages three to seven or more asked. True, part of the purpose of questioning is to use this new speech-tool for itself, but it is also the child's way of learning to live in a complex world which we as adults often take for granted. As far as knowledge, information, is concerned, a new-born infant must start from "scratch." By the time that individual is an adult, merely twenty years (more or less), he has to learn, much of what it took our civilization several thous- and years to achieve.
3. Since the most important years of a child's life are the pre-school years, and since the child during this time is under direct supervision of the home, parents must realize that the future life course of their son or daughter is largely their responsibility. The most important learning years of a child's life are the years before the child goes to school, from birth to age five or six. It is at this time that the basic patterns of life are laid down with the later development largely a differentiation and expansion process of the experiences of these early years. The basic patterns of religion should be established at this time, as well as a love for stories, a delight for songs, common courtesy, orderliness, the idea of sharing and many other worthwhile traits of a Christ- ian personality. The home remains the primary educative agency for the pre-school child. This means that parents, the father as well as the mother, must assume more of the responsibility for this early period of training than they frequently have in the past.
4. The home should permit the child to be a creative participant within an environment which balances the opportunity for freedom and the neces- sity for restraint. The home environment must be a democratic one permitting every member of the family to participate creatively with that group. The traditional parental pattern commonly included a stern father who meted out severe corporal pun- ishment to his children at frequent intervals. The older social customs tended to demand this practice; consequently, parents frequently assumed the role of dictators instead of leaders who need to guide and direct their sons and daughters. A reaction against such tyrannical family methods set in at the turn of the last century resulting in a swing to the op- posite extreme of permitting the child to do as he pleases with very little restraint offered. Dr. P. M. Symounds, psychologist, found that the child with
dominating parents accepts authority and is orderly and courteous but lacks in self-confidence and initia- tive. The child with submissive parents defies authority, is irresponsible, lazy, selfi.sh, aggressive, and independent. Neither type of parental practice illustrated above is desirable. Dr. Raymond H. Wheeler, psychologist at the University of Kansas, maintains that the individual exercises his freedom under laws of restraint. Any parent who has at- tempted to maintain such an optimum position will attest to the fact that to put the afore-mentioned principle into practice is a difficult task that will require a great deal of patience and understanding. The resulting child behavior is often discouraging when one sees the boy behave like a "bull in a china shop," but the rewards come when that same boy is able to greet guests courteously and to carry on an intelligent conversation with them, when he has learned the principles of sharing play equipment with playmates, when he is helpful around the house on his own initiative, such as helping clear the dishes from the table and assisting with their washing, and when he shows a growing orderliness in keeping items in his room in their proper place. Parents should recognize that there will be many regressions at which time it appears that all past training practices have been in vain, but the very next day may again show the rewards of a rearing program with a proper balancing of freedom and restraint. Parents should not merely insist on "adjustment" to the pre-estab- lished pattern of living, but they should permit, rather encourage, creative participation in family affairs.
5. A child should be given opportunities to meike choices, but after a choice has been made parents should insist that the tasks involved be performed whether they be pleasant or unpleasant. It is easier to let the child do the things he likes and to ignore the ones he does not like. The home, together with the church and the school, needs to reaffirm its faith in the ability of the individual to pass judgments of value. This includes making choices predicated upon an assumption that human behavior is purposive, be- havior directed toward a goal, an objective. The child should be given a purpose for the task he is assigned to do. When he asks "WTiy?" he should be given a truthful answer, not merely a "Do it because mother says so!" School, home, and church training methods have unfortunately been influenced by the pleasure — pain theory which maintains that the child remembers and wishes to repeat those exper- iences which are pleasant and Jorgets and avoids those experiences which are unpleasant. This type of thinking would sugar-coat the many unpleasant tasks that any individual must perform. _ Our civilization would be in a sad state if we merely tried to do the tasks that are pleasant. Instead, what we must do is have our goal, our purposes, our objectives clearly in mind and then work for those purposes. In doing
1943
THE MENNONITE
Page Thirteen
so there will be somewhat of a balance between the pleasant and unpleasant tasks that need to be ac- complished. When we have the feeling that we are on our way toward that goal, satisfaction will re- sult as a by-product; while when we seem to be blocked, frustrated, in our endeavor we have the feeling of dissatisfaction. Our objective in life cannot be happiness, since this is merely a by-product of a worthwhile and fruitful Christian life spent in serving God and one's fellowmen. The attempt to achieve happiness for itself would be a selfish effort, and, therefore, doomed to failure from the beginning. The foregoing discussion has significance for Christian education by urging parents to give their boys and
How One Pastor Makes His Visits
Articles about pastoral calling seldom appear in this paper. Yet this is very important in present- day church w^ork. To give an idea of how one pas- tor goes about this, we present the following article which' is taken from the Eden Chronicles of the Eden Mennonite Church, Moundridge. Brother Walter Gering is pastor of this church.
For some time it has been a matter of concern as to how we might more effectively reach the families of the congregation through visitation and personal con- tact. One of the great dangers of large congregations is that not only do individual members and families lose that personal intimate touch which is evident in a small congregation but the pastor as well. The grow- ing number of families represented in the congregation is making it increasingly difficult for the pastor to keep in touch with all. Yet a certain amount of personal touch is necessary if he is to be informed of the needs and heart throbs of the congregation. The problem of pastoral calling is one which has not yet been solved satisfactorily; more needs to be done along this line. Limited physical endurance, the need for personal study and devotions, family obligations, restricted transpwrtatipn facilities, church activities — all of these increase the problem. Yet we believe that with the cooperation of the congregation greater contacts can be made. With that thought in mind we wish to suggest a method of procedure which requires the co- op>eration of all. This is an exp>eriment and as such may go the way of many other experiments, but we suggest a fair trial. Below, you will find a proposed schedule of visitation for the month of December. Monday of each week we shall endeavour to spend the day at home in study and meditation. Tuesday and Thursday are to be devoted to family visitation. In order to go about this visitation in a more systematic manner a schedule has been worked out and is present- ed for your consideration. A study of it will reveal that the church is the starting point ,and that each week finds us going out in a different direction. The plan is to go from house to house as much as possible
girls training in making wise choices, and in develop- ing techniques of making value judgments. Our American civilization has strayed too far into a materialistic thinking in which the thing that costs the most is the best. We must achieve a new sense of values in which the human personality is of prime importance, not the monetary value. To do this we must help our youth to make qualitative choices. The finest traditions of the Christian religion can help achieve a set of judgments. May the Christ- ian home lead the way toward a view of life in which we look to God as the Father, realizing that all of us are sons of God, and therefore brothers. We will then say: "Yes, I am my brothef's keeper."
and to cover the entire congregation.
May we ask for your cooperation in several ways. First of all, please do not ask us to make these calls as a family. Much as we would like to do so, that is im- possible. The pastor will come alone. Then may we ask that you do not expect us to extend the time of the visit over thirty minutes. To do so will be to ask us to take away time from some one else. There are 300 other families to l5e visited; let us be fair and consider- ate, of others. Then again may we ask for your pa- tience. In our visitation we are bound to pass up someone unknowingly and unintentionally. We wish we could say that no such mistakes will be made. But knowing ourselves as we do, we predict that such mis- takes will be made. Please accept them as a sign that we are merely human; tell us about the oversight and we shall gladly seek to make it right. Then in the fourth place may we suggest that if you have any problems or suggestions to offer during these visits that you feel free to do so. May we make these thirty min- ute periods of mutual benefit to each other.
So much for the visitation on Tuesday and Thurs- day. On Wednesdays and Fridays we shall endeavour to follow a similar procedure in the afternoons visiting the aged and shutins. We have a number of members who should be visited once a month. These with the sick provide a list long enough to occupy two after- noons a week regularily. Here again we shall find it necessary to limit the time of the visit as much as possible. Saturdays, we shall reserve for study and preparation for the activities of Sunday.
Now may we say a word about the proposed sche- dule in general. May we all recognize that this is merely a proposed schedule. There are always un- foreseen happenings and situations which arise, requir- ing immediate attention. We would ask that every- one feel free to interrupt the schedule at any time for such occasions. The sick and the needy must always come first. We do not wish to discourage any one from coming at any time. If we do not appear for a family visit at the time scheduled, the family involved will understand that other things interfered, which re- quired our attention.
Pago Fourtoon
HOME MISSIONS
A J Nmicnischwaiuler, Socrotary
HOME MISSION WORK IN TORONTO ONT.
"O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever"- -Psalm 107:1
On September 12 the members of this mission gave their pastor-to-be a cordial welcome. This was done in form of a program, and later a lunch was served by the ladies. The program consisted of official wel- comes by the ministers of Vineland, Virgil, Waterloo, and Niagara-on-the-Lake. They gave short messages, choosing for their themes appropriate Scripture ver- ses for the encouragement and help of the new worker. Favorable music was rendered by the choir, as well as solos from the individuals of the choir. In all it was a very interesting program and certainly one that would make their pastor-to-be feel quite at home.
A few weeks have passed since it was my pleasure to begin work at this mission in Toronto. Thus far it has been a matter of getting acquainted with the peo- ple. Many of the young people are still left who need to be called upon and invited to the Sunday services. However, at present there are from twenty-five to thirty-five people in regular atendance. We are look- ing forward to larger attendance as time goes on.
We can say this, that it has been as real a blessing as we have met from time to time. We have exper- ienced that what that Psalmist speaks of, namely, "The Lord, He is good, for His mercy endureth for ever."
Yours in His Service, Arnold A. Fast 84 Greenwood Avenue
C.P.S. Camps
Selective Service Notified
The agencies administering C.P.S. have finally no- tified Selective Service that they are willing to con- tinue the program for another year. Mennonite Cen- tral Committee and Brethren Service Committee had made the decision in October, but The American Friends Service Committee was doubtful as to wheth- er they should continue or not, and the final com- mitment was delayed for two months. Canning: and Drying Project
A preliminary report of the canning and drying project for C.P.S. camps places the total quarts can- ned well over 168,000. This total does not include quantities taken directly to the camps, but only the food handled in the collection centers. By this time almost all of the food is stored in the camp pantries. Hagerstovm Farm and Community School
The Hagerstown Farm and Community School will not open on January 1 as originally planned. Due to
January 4
the cancellation of transfers over the holiday season thi.s project will probably get under way around Feb- ruary 1.
Released December 21, 1943 Compiled by Irvin B. Horst
RELIEF NOTES
Relief to India
A detailed letter from Sam Goering and J. D. Graber closes with a paragraph outlining tentative plans for a relief project in Bengal:
"As plans now seem to be shaping up there will likely be a famine camp at Sonarpur, a village twelve miles out from Calcutta, a rice selling pro- ject where rice is sold at cost, and less than cost to needy people at Kalyanpur, a village about twenty miles out, besides some subsidy to well managed mission relief kitchens, especially those of the American Baptist Mission in Midnapur and 6ala- sore districts. This will be but a drop in the bucket as far as the colossal Bengal famine is concerned, but it looks as if this were as effective a way as is feasible for us to use our resources."
Cable from China
A telegram was received recently at M.C.C. Head- quarters Office from China relief commissioners, J. D. Graber and S. J. Goering. An excerpt is given here:
TENTATIVELY RECOMMEND ESTABLISHING FIRST UNIT AROUND . CLOSED MISSION HOS- PITAL HONAN FAMINE AREA. REQUIRE DI- RECTOR ONE DOCTOR SEVERAL OTHERS FOR RELIEF ADMINISTRATION, HANDICRAFTS, OR- PHANAGE, ETC. ONE MUST SPEAK CHINESE. INITIAL UNIT COMPRISING MEN SUITABLE FOR LEADERSHIP LATER DEVELOPMENT. LEAVING FOR INVESTIGATING FAMINE AREA NEXT WEEK. .
Conference at Ottawa
Orie Miller and Ernest Bennet met wdth six Cana- dian Mennonite brethren in Ottawa, Ontario, De- cember 8-9. Representatives were present from three Canadian relief committees and from the On- tario Conference of Historic Peace Churches, whose constituencies support M.C.C. relief activities. Plans were discussed as to how the relief efforts and in- terests of the Canadian Mennonites might be better coordinated with the relief activities of the M.C.C. It was suggested that the M.C.C. might set up a branch office in Canada. At the recent meeting of the Executive Committee of the M.C.C. this sugges- tion was passed upon favorably and it was decided to have Ernest Bennet assist in the opening of this office probably in Toronto.
Needed Bains Come to the Chaco
Vernon Schmidt writing from the Fernheim Col- onia, November 20, tells about welcome showers of rain:
"We have had wonderful rains here in the last two or three weeks; Mr. Klassen says that he had heard so much about the dry, hot Chaco, then when he gets
TME MENNONITE
1943
THE MENNONITE
here, it is cool and forever raining! Anyway, the most of the plowing and planting is now done, and soon the weeds will be big and a lot of cultivating necessary. Several have told me that never before here, have they had rains that covered the whole of both colonies so uniformly and at the same time in sufficient quantities that they could plow and plant everything at one time, with no interruption for dry weather in the meantime. So the people are much more satisfied now."
Page Fifteen
Workers to Puerto Rico
Grace Kauffman is at the M.C.C. Headquarters at present becoming acquainted with the work of M.C.C. The date for her to leave from Miami has been changed to January 3. Latest word from Roman and Elmer Gingerich is that they left Miami on the morn- ing of December 8. N. Paul Stuckey and Erwin War- kentin have arrived in Puerto Rico. N. Paul writing from Castaner, says, "It took longer to travel between the two units (Castaner and La Plata) than it did be- tween Miami and San Juan."
The German Mennonite war prisoner, Hans Schne- ble, was contacted by J. M. Regier, Cornelius Krahn and John A. Ewert. This prisoner had seen the name of M.C.C. on a devotional booklet and had written to Akron asking for a visit. He is interned at Camp Phillips, Salina, Kansas. In a report of his visit Broth- er Regier says:
"On our return to Capt. Wickliff's office we found Hans Schneble waiting for us. As soon as he saw Dr. Krahn he said, Tch kenne Sie' (I know you). They had been at the same conference at Danzig one time. We visited with him for about 20 minutes in the presence of two officers, the corporal being the in- terpreter, but of course we did not need his services. Schneble seems to be a man of about 30 years, is married, but has no children. The prisoners can write letters and receive them, but everything is first cen- sored. His address would be as follows: Hans Schne- ble, Prisoner of War Camp, Co. No. 6, Camp Phil- lips, Kans. In care of the District Postal Censor, 252 Seventh Ave., New York City."
—"New Year's Eve! (This coming Friday) The mem- bers and friends of this church are invited to drop in at the parsonage any time after 9:30 p.m. for an informal fellowship together. Let us start the New Year with the blessed tie that binds!" So read a a note in the December 26th bulletin of the First Mennonite Church, Wadsworth, Ohio. Donovan Smucker as pastor. On December 27 a member of that church wrote to the editor. "The icy condition of the roads yesterday prevented our minister . . . from making his trip to Akron for his broadcast over WAKR and kept many of us from attending church at Wadsworth too, although the forty or fifty who did make the trip were well paid by a splendid sermon by Rev. Smucker and some nice
words for braving the roads."
— Brother C. H. A. van der Smissen wrote on Decem- ber 28: "My dear sister and I had a very happy and blessed Christmas. I wish you could have seen the array of cards and of nice presents we had. Cookies were scarce this year, but there were plenty of chocolates and fine candy. This year I attended three beautiful, blessed celebrations." Brother van der Smissen was ninety-two on December 4. He is the oldest minister in our General Conference. His sister Hillegonda van der Smissen celebrated her ninety-fifth birthday on last June 30. — Please notice everyone concerned: Please, address mail for our church to Rev. H. P. Fast, Saron Men- nonite Church, Orienta, Oklahoma. — Woodland Mennonite Church, Warroad, Minneso- ta: The choir furnished music one evening during a week of revival meetings at the Mission Covenant Church. A Thanksgiving program was given on No- vember 25. It is important that we give thanks every day of the year.— Jake Quiring, Corr. — Bethel College: Chapel speakers in the week end- ing December 17 included Dr. C. E. Krehbiel and Rev. H. J. Brown, who recently returned from the China mission field. Rev. Brown's son, Roland, is a student in Bethel College and the editor of the 1944 Graymaroon. Rev. Brown also spoke to students and others, Sunday evening, Dec. 17, telling of his ex- periences in occupied China as a prisoner of the Japanese.
—Rev. Walter Gering will bring a series of Bible messages to the First Mennonite Church, Berne, Indiana, from January 9 to 16. Services will be held each evening except Saturday, and some Bible study periods will very likely be held on some of the mornings. Brother Gering is pastor of the Eden Mennonite Church, Moundridge, Kansas. With a membership of about 800 this is the fourth largest
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Page Sixteen
THE MENNONITE
December 28
S. S. Lesson Commentaries for 1944
HIGLEY'S S. S. LESSON COMMENTARY FOR 1944
Without a doubt, the best commentary for the money on the market today. Publish- ed only since 1935, it has gain- ed first place in sales over all other commentaries we carry.
P'rice $1.00
TARBELL'S TEACHER'S GUIDE FOR 1944
39th annual volume. Many consider this work by Martha Tarbell, litt. D., to be the best commentary on the mar- ket
Price $2.25
THE
PELOUBET'S SELECT NOTES FOR 1944
70th Annual Volume. By Wilbur M. Smith, D.D. of the commentaries selling at $2.00, this is our best seller. An abundance of helps for each lesson.
Price $2.00
SNOWDEN'S SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS FOR 1944
23rd Annual Volume. Writ- ten by' Earl L. Douglass, this small book contains concise helps for the busy teacher. Very good for the teacher of adult classes.
Price $1.50
GIST OF THE LES- SON FOR 1944
You'll be surprised how much material is packed into this tiny book. Taken from the writings of R. A. Torrey. Price 40c
ARNOLD'S PRACTICAL COMMENTARY FOR 1944
With its hints to teachers, illustrations, questions and maps is a good all around commentary at a popular price.
Price $1.00
.You may order these helps either from the Mennonite Publication Office, Newton, Kansas, or from the Men- nonite Book Concern, Berne, Indiana.
church in the General Conference, being ex- ceeded in siz.e only by the Berne and Alexan- (l(>rwohl churches.
— Il(!v. J. P. Suderman is to be the temporary pastor of the First Mennonite Church, Berne, Indiana. Brother Suderman, a missionary among the Hopis at Oraibi, Arizona, under our Foreign Mission Board and now on a leave of absence, is scheduled to begin his work in Berne with the new year. Rev. Suderman has been granted a three-month furlough from his mission work. However, he is subject to be re-called to his mission work at any time as conditions may warrant.
— Missionary H. J. Browns are to serve the Bethtel Mennonite Church, Mountain Lake, Minnesota, for one month. Brother Erland Waltner has been granted one month "vaca- tion" time. Brother Waltner, however, intends to use this period of time for continuing his studies at Eastern Baptist Theological Semin- ary, which he attended while pastor in Phila- delphia. Brother and Sister Brown are to be- gin their services on January 17 and will oc- cupy the parsonage. At present they are stay- ing with Mrs. Sam Goering, North Newton, Kansas.
— Rev. and Mrs. F. J. Isaac and Alida Schrag left for India on December 22. They boarded an airliner in Brownsville, Texas, on Decem- ber 30 at 9:30 a.m. They are due in Buenos Aires on January 4 at 2:55 p.m., from where they will wait for boat connections to South Africa. Please, remember this party in your prayers.
—You don't want someone else to pay your share, do you? Yet that is just what happens when you send a new or renewal order for The Mennonite and fail to pay the 2 percent Sales Tax that all residents of Kansas should pay. Whenever a subscriber in Kansas fails to send in the amount of the tax with his sub- scription order the Mennonite Publication Of- fice must dig into its pocket and pay it. When hundreds and hundreds of such orders come in, it amonuts to a big amount of money. —Rev. J. M. Suderman, after a rather severe case of flu, is again busy vidth the large amount of work in the Publication Office. Mrs. Suder- man, who also was ill vdth the flu, is also again busily helping with the work. Brother P. A. Penner, another flu victim, is again back at his desk in the Conference Headquarters building.
—A short time ago David Habegger, Berne, Indiana, father of Mrs. A. S. Rosenberger, | Missionary Alfred Habegger, Busby, Montana, 1 and Mrs. Metta Moyer, Janjgir, C. P., India, died and was land to rest.— Bulletin, Swamp Mennonite Charge.
—The Wayland, Iowa, Mennonite Church hadi its annual meeting on the afternoon of Newj Year's Day. Members enjoyed a fellowship, [ basket dinner before the session.
The Mennonite
"Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid which is Jesus Christ.''
VOLUME LX NORTH NEWTON, KANSAS, JANUARY ii, 1944 NUMBER 2
Entered at the post office at North Newton, Kansas, as second-class matter. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for In Section 1103. Act of October 3, 1917. Authorized January 22, 1919.
The Schweitzer C. O. Case
With the exception of Lew Ayres, probably no individual conscientious objector has found himself the focal point of as much heat and publicity as Edward O. Schweitzer, Miami, Fla., school teacher who was ousted for his views.
Schweitzer's case did not achieve the nation- wide audience of Lew Ayres, but in Dade County, Fla., it has made up for this in intensity. One news- paper compared the case to the famous Scopes trial. Editorials, letters to the editor, columnist's opin- ions and news stories are still coming in, despite the fact that he was discharged in August.
The Facts in the Case
Schweitzer, 34 years old and a Methodist, had been teaching in Miami public schools for ten and a half years, the last five of which he has been Dean of Boys at the Ada Merritt Junior High School. In addition, he was a YMCA clubleader, Scoutmaster, choir-singer and Sunday-school teacher. This past summer he has been working up to twelve hours a day in a local dairy.
Last May his local board changed his III-A classi- fication to I-A, amending it to I-A-0 after his pro- test. He appealed for IV-E.
In June or July, an anonymous telephone caU in- formed the School Board that Schweitzer was a was a CO., apparently suggesting that something be done about it.
The School Board held a preliminary hearing to ask Schweitzer about his beliefs. It later preferred charges of incompetence, alleging that he was in- capable of teaching patriotism and defense of country as required in the school system. A formal hearing was set for August 11.
Just before the hearing, Schweitzer learned from his local boa^d that he had been re-classified IV-E. There was no explanation as to why his ceise had been reopened.
The hearing was held and Schweitzer was later discharged. Soon afterwards he began legal pro- ceedings for reinstatement.
On September 15, he reported to Camp Blanding for his final physical examination and was rejected by army physicians. He is now back in Miami.
The Hearings
The preliminary hearing was only a preview of what was to come. Quoting from Time Magazine's account:
"Schweitzer's mother, whom he supports testified that he does a long daily stint in a dairy, held that this constitutes more war work than the School Boarders achieve. Also supporting Schweitzer were his principal, students, parents, friends. Some arguments:
"Principal Albert L. Isaac: 'He is loved and re- spected by his boys.'
"Several parents: their sons were studying under Schweitzer when they enlisted ; he . did not teach pacifism, but believes in it himself.
"A parent who works for the Air Transport Com- mand: his soldier son was prevented by military duties from appearing to say that Schweitzer was the best teacher he ever had.
"Chinese- American student Helen Gong: Schweit- zer improved wayward students' characters.
"Miami News Editorialist Francis P. Locke ar- gued that to fire Schweitzer verged on tyranny. Next day he wrote, 'A sad blow to the ideals for which we are fighting . . . flesh and blood and bones of democracy . . . torn, spilled and crushed. . . .'
"The Miami Herald, on the other hand, advised Schweitzer's dismissal, though expressing respect for his convictions. Terry's (R. P. Terry, School Board member) co-Legionnaires at the hearing ex- pressed no respect. Florida's ex-Vice Commander Al Lambert wanted 'red-blooded' teachers. Miami Beach Post Chaplain Elmer Warren darkly de- clared: 'Dade County is on trial here.' "
The formal hearing was even more dramatic. About 200 persons attended. For three hours, the crowd continually interrupted the testimony to shout their own "violently partisan" opinions. A bloc of Schweitzer's students and Boy Scouts cheer- ed lustily when someone spoke in favor of him. A Boy Scout in the rear wept throughout the debate on hearing his leader denounced.
Schweitzer had the backing of 17 Methodist minis- ters of the city, the Dade County Scout Leaders' Ass'n, and the National Education Ass'n in a state- ment read at the hearing. Newspapers were also generally favorable to his stand with editorial and columnist opinion running about five to one in his favor, according to a NSBRO count.
Schweitzer himself was called first to the stand to be quizzed in a manner strongly protested by his (Continued on Page 7)
Page Two
THE MENNONITE
January i i
Not so Much Knowledge, As Fruitage
Jesus (lid nol say that (rue Christians can be as- certained by the amount of Jiible knowledge possessed. He said, "... by their fruits ye shall know them. Jesus again and again emphasized fruitful living; "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the wiirof my 1-ather which is in heaven- whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man— Verily I saCy unto you, Inasinuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me —Herein is my Father glorified that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples— If ye keep my commandments ye shall abide in my love— Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you— If a man love me he will keep my words— By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, , if ye have love one to another— That except your right- eousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven — He that hath my command- ments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me." The doing of God's will as revealed in Christ should be an uppermost concern for the Christian.
Naturally we must know a truth before we can put it into action. We must know what Christ is like before we can be Christlike. Far too many Christians are stunted in their scriptural knowledge. As God's children we should dearly cherish what He has to say to us.
However, we can best do this by learning with the intention of applying. Just to let God's word go into one ear and out another or to let it lie idle in the mind is not pleasing to our Father. We can easily drift into a false feeling of security by attaining a vast knowledge of the Bible. By just knowing and thinking about holy things we can rather easily con- vince ourselves that we are quite holy. We can make of scriptural knowledge a sedative that helps to quiet a conscience that should prick us because of our sinfulness. The Pharisees seemingly succeeded in this.
The Pharisees were very "scriptural." They pro- fessed to stand absolutely true to the scriptures. They considered themselves the guardians of them. They thought that they knew them so well that they could use them to entangle Jesus. There can be no question that the Pharisees did know the scriptures, but it is plain that they did not live them very well. Yes, the Pharisees did some good; they were looked upon as holy men by the multitudes; they were the leaders representing God as far as most people were concerned ; they expounded the Scriptures and taught reverence for them; they prayed and fasted; they gave alms; they kept the Sabbath; they got aroused- about a case of adultery. To outward appearances they were
pretty good men. In fact, very good men; only there was something disgusting about their goodness. The rottenness inside them! Jesus revealed their hard, little, selfish hearts from which started the cancer of hypocrisy that crept through all their manipulations. The Pharises knew the scriptures, but Jesus said, "except your righteou.sness exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees ye cannot enter into the Kingdom of Heaven."
Jesus did not say to the Pharisees, "Blessed are ye that know the scriptures." But he did say, "Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness . . ." It was that hunger and thirst that the Phari- sees lacked. Without that hunger and thirst their knowledge of the scriptures was frequently put to a devilish use. That is always the danger when scrip- tural knowledge and a hunger and thirst for righteous- ness are not found together.
We need to approach the study of our Sunday School lesson with a hunger and thirst for righteous- ness. It is easy to come to class and to know a lot "about the lesson." It is harder to come to class with a conviction as to what God's will is for one's own life, as revealed by the lesson. It is easier to speculate and theorize about Biblical matters than it is to apply them in right living. Yet, it is fruit-bear- ing that Jesus, our Saviour, is concerned about.
It might be profitable for the members of a Sunday School class to gather with each one ready to share with the others a definite conviction gained from the lesson for his own personal life. Each could state his insight, and then the others could ask questions for clarification. We share our best experiences in cattle raising, cooking, etc. However, generally we do not have a counterpart in the realm of Christian experience. Such a class session should be very in- spiring.
Today we have Sunday School, C.E., preaching services every Sunday morning and perhaps also even- ing, and frequently prayer meetings during the week. But it is very questionable whether our spirituality can compare with that of the early Brethren in Switzerland and Holland. They did not have all these meetings; many undoubtedly were not able to read the Bible. But they seem to have had a hunger and thirst for Bible knowledge that was to be concretely applied in their living— and dying. The result, a thorough knowledge of the scriptures and living and dying that puts us to shame.
We by all means need more Bible knowledge, but we must certainly not make it an end in itself. It is but a means unto an end — fruitbearing. Let us not be like the Pharisees who knew the scriptures but failed to do God's will as revealed by Jesus Christ. — rw.
»44
THE MENNONITE
Page Three
FOREIGN MISSIONS
p. H, RICHERT, Secretary
LETTER FROM THE DUERKSENS
Jagdishpiir, Via Raipur, C. P., India April 3, 1943
ear Mission Friends,
You who live in the temperate zone would feel that »mething was not quite right with our surroundings, lost of the trees are shedding their leaves, and as Du look at the bare branches against the pale blue : the sky, you would expect the air to be a bit cool I anticipation of coming winter. But, instead, the lermometer is crawling up to 100 or more and the Don sun is so hot that one is glad to remain under lelter. One of the strange things about this part of idia is that the leaves of the trees fall in the spring lonths. Almost immediately dainty, soft, new leaves )me out inspite of increasing heat and no rainfall, lany of the trees are full of blossoms — some deep ;d, some in velvety salmon and cerise, other fragrant ^rays of white flowerets. One of the evangelists in oeaking to a group of new Christians whose home as far from the Mission Station said, "You may not ave calendars and may forget when the great Chris- an holidays come. But when you see the trees deck- 1 out in flowers and new leaves you can know that it ■ time to celebrate the great resurrection day."
In some waj^s the war has come closer to us. Quite
few of our Indians have enlisted in various branches f the Indian army. They are either motor drivers, ospital workers or cooks. Once in a while a soli- iry airplane flies over and everyone runs out to see . Outside of the increased prices of commodities and le irregular mail service from abroad, we have exper- mced nothing of war time troubles. We go anywhere 1 our district without fear. If the nights are hot we 0 not hesitate to take our beds out into the open.
The time for the touring season is almost over and isults in the number of baptisms can be tabulated, ut such results probably tell only a part of the story, bout three miles distant from Jagdishpur, a bit off le main road, lies a small village with its "outcast ;ction somewhat separated from the village proper, 'his year twenty-three people have taken baptism lere and they seem to be very eager to learn more, /as this the first time they had really had a chance to ear? Was it because of superior work done by this ear's evangelists that so many were ready to come ut? We investigated a little.
Twenty-three years ago the first evangelistic camp as set up there by Rev. P. J. Wiens. That was about )ur years after that first exploration trip by Rev. teiner when he came into Phuljhar State. In the ears that followed and up to the present date, there
have been at least twelve more camps there when workers stopped for a longer or shorter time to pre- sent the claims of Christ. They told us that the sec- ond camp had been set up by P. A. Penner Sahib. Then Wenger Sahib and the Moyer Sahibs had both been there. Mr. Thiessen remembers visiting that village in the early days when he toured in this area. In a list of believers and their villages we find two Chris- tian families listed in Jiradabhri as early as 1923. But the older man, Shatrughan, had received his baptism at Jhagrindhi the year Dr. Kliewer and Mr. Habeg- gar visited India. The son, Bansi, had been baptized later in another village. Still later we find the younger man and also the children of the first man listed as church members in Jagdishpur and no further names recorded in Jirradabhri.
In 1939 efficient workers spent a whole month there. No one was ready for baptism. The next year the camp was in a village about a mile distant and workers came regularly to give instruction here too. Still no one was ready. Although the people of this village had made no request for teaching this year, yet the evangelist in this area thought they should have one more chance. And this year they were ready.
Part of the evangelistic work is the selling and dis- tribution of literature. We use two languages in this area — Hindi and Oriya. The record for last year is 2 1 Bibles, 26 Testaments, 663 Gospel portions and 131^ tracts and booklets. Song pamphlets sold number over 200. Many of the tracts are in couplet or verse form to which the reader makes up a melody as he goes along. We haven't learned that trick yet.
The activities and work of the coming months' will keep us from wondering what to do to pass away th-? time. Mrs. Dester and I, together with eight womer, expect to attend a Women's Institute this coming week where there are to be representatives from all the neighboring missions.
School close comes on the 20th of April. There are sixteen eighth class pupils this year. Outside of the children living in this village there are many district children here to attend school. Besides that the Mid- dle School (Grades 5 to 8) pupils from the other sta- tions also come here. Besides looking after the school and the farm attached to it, it has also been Mr. Thiessen's responsibility to see to that 113 of these children had something to eat every day. With rice and other food stuffs at double their former price it has been impossible to make the budget come out even. With the increased costs it will mean that some children will have to miss school next year.
Immediately after school close there is to be a mela (sort of a district convention) and Teacher's Institute combined. Our district Christians are always verv eager for this time of "get-to-gether." Three outside speakers are to give the special messages. We trust that these gatherings will be a time of real spiritual
Page l'"()ur
THE MENNONITE
January
empowering. After this the district workers are to sjiend a month in Rihlc study here at the station. That is always a time of l)lessing.
The I.ord willing, we hope to spend a few weeks with the children in September. The winter vacation time is also a very busy time in the work. It passes so quickly and it is with regret that we see the appointed day in March arrive when children and trunks must be sent away again. We are glad our children can go to a good school here instead of being sent away to America when they are Httle.
With Christian greetings,
/. R. and Christena Duerksen
FIRST DIRECT LETTER FROM OUR MISSION- ARIES ON THE PHILIPPINES
Camp Holmes Internment Camp Baguio, Philippines
August 2 2, 1943 The Mennonite Board of Foreign Missions To Rev. P. H. Richert, Newton, Kansas Dear Friends,
With a note of deep gratitude to God for His gra- cious protection and care over us, we gladly make use of this opportunity to notify you that we are all com- paratively well, and are being accorded fair treatment.
Our needs as to food and necessities in general are also met. We all hope to keep our health in view of continuing in the service of the Christ in future.
Each of us has his particular daily duties to perform in the upkeep of the camp. At present, Wuthrich. Dirks, and Jantzen are members of the wood gang, which supplies wood for the camp kitchens. The wo- men care for the children, clean rice, vegetables, etc. Marvin Jr. and Grace Joan attend school. We are trying to add our bit to keep our small community of about five hundred people going and happy.
The Dirks' youngest daughter, Annt Rae, one year old, is receiving thyroid. If at all possible, it would be well, if the Board, through a doctor, would make ar- rangements to send several hundred grains, in view of the almost certain future shortage of thyroid here. Otherwise, we have excellent medical care here. The Wuthrichs, Dirkses, and Jantzens all send greet- ings to friends and relatives.
Committing all into God's loving care.
We remain, Yours in Christ, (Signed) Lester and Agnes Wuthrich Marvin & Frieda Dirks and family Albert & Wilma Jantzen and family (the letter was written by Albert Jantzen) Note: Brother and Sister Brown brought us the first definite word from our missionaries in the Philippines, but the above letter is the first direct word from them, and it is also good news. Thank the Lord.
P. H. Richert, Sec.
HOME MISSIONS
A. J. Nou(.>n;;chw<indor, Socretary
CITY VISITATION WORK VERY NECESSAE
"I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise si continually be in my mouth." How we yearn in th days that all people everywhere should learn to pn God, instead of slaughtering each other as they doing now.
It surely behooves us as children of God to be igent in calling upon God. If only all who profess believe in God would have faith in prayer, but all many have not faith that prayer avails anything. TI fail to realize that it is not they who are the po: in prayer, but that they would be praying to an mighty God who has all power.
It seems that these terrible times would stir pec and that they would flock to God's house to seek s] itual help, but instead one finds many just as lax 1 indifferent to God as they were before the war. Oh, they would like to see an end to this terrible war, I no, they have no time for God, no not even in a t like this. Many have the "I can't be bothered" a tude. A mother told me just the other day that her wants to sleep on Sunday morning, and she is not I ing to try to get her up to come to church. Afte^ talked with her for a while she promised she wol try, but only in a half-hearted way.
However, we do praise God that there are some mi are interested and are willing to get their children i] to come to God's house; we hope and pray that th parents soon will come with their children and becc i consecrated Christians.
I made 1,269 calls; distributed some used cloth| given for that purpose, also some food, and new ckh ing for poor children, paid for by the Sunday ScKo from their fund for such needs. And distributed iv eral hundred pieces of Christian literature.
I had charge of the devotions in our Ladies' m and helped make the programs for our women's rsj sionary meetings. Also helped in the sewing we v for the Red Cross, City Relief, and Mennonite Cn tral Committee.
I served as Junior Christian Endeavor superinuii dent of our church, also was Junior C. E. superinm j dent of the Eastern District Conference and presi' ' at the Junior C. E. Convention at Lansdale in June
On May twenty-third I took a group of our Sn- day school and Jr. C. E. children to the Philadelpjia Jr. C. E. Union "Play Day" on Lemon Hill.
As president of the Women's Societies of the Is tern District Conference, I presided at the Busiisi Meeting and Program of the Women's Societies 11( during the conference at AUentown in May.
(Continued on page 14)
THE MENNONITE
Page Five
Byways of Mennonite History
By C. Henry Smith
THE BLOOD OF THE MARTYRS
III ,
vfo other religious group since the days of Nero has J fered such persecution, and in proportion to its lj nerical strength offered up so many martyrs for sake of religious conscience, as have the Menno- is. During the hundred years following the be- aing of the Reformation period they were tortured, leaded, drowned, and sent to the stake for their gious beliefs ; for another hundred they were fined, ed, and hounded from one country to another; and y n, finally, it was another full century, the period of French Revolution, that leveller of all religious and ial inequalities, before Mennonites were granted ,al privileges and rights with other citizens through- Europe. Women as well as men suffered for their h. In fact, the proportion of women martyrs as ipared with men is far larger among Mennonites n among any other religious group of the period. J big martyr book contains the story of over one usand Mennonite men and women who suffered un- I torture rather than do violence to their con- nces. And the list is by no means a complete one. ."'he following story of the torture and exe- ion of Michael Sattler is typical of hundreds )thers. Michael Sattler, a former monk, join- :he Swiss Brethren in Zurich in the early years :hat movement and became one of the early lers of the religious movement that later be- le the Mennonite church. He was also one Ihe first martyrs of the church. After a brief very active period of service in behalf of his h, a period of only two short years, during ch, however, he had written the first confes- i of faith known among the Mennonites, he arrested in 1527 and soon after put to death he most brutal manner. ^j[is persecuters could find no other charge a- j,|ist him than this, that he had deserted the I holic church. The specific complaints were Q he had denied the Catholic doctrine of the presence, infant baptism, the worship of Jy and the saints, extreme unction, commun- in one kind; and also that he opposed the ng of the oath and participation in war, and lly, that he "had left the order and taken a
shall be pinched five times in the same manner."
"After this was done," the Martyrs Mirror con- tinues, "in the manner prescribed, he was burned to ashes as a heretic. His fellow brethren were exe- cuted with the sword, and the sisters drowned. His wife also, after being subjected to many entreaties, admonitions and threats, under which she remained very steadfast, was drowned a few days afterwards."
Michael Sattler was a pious and amiable soul whose only fault was that his conscience would not allow him to be a Catholic. Even his bitterest en- emy had to confess that he was "a dear friend of God though an Anabaptist."
But why all this bloody persecution and torture, we naturally ask ourselves in these days of supposed religious toleration. These men and women were no criminals. They never stole any property nor harmed any one. They were among the most peace- ful, industrious, and pious people of the commun- ity, asking for nothing more than the right to wor- ship God as their consciences demanded. Other-
inding him guilty on these points, the court ;h tried him decreed this sentence, namely, he "shall be delivered to the executioner, shall lead him to the place of execution and out his tongue, and then throw him upon a 3n, tear his body twice with red hot tongs, after he has been brought within the gate he
Mennonites Being Persecuted
Page Six
THE MENNONITE
wise, they were among the most loyal and law-abid- ing suhjt'cls of the whole realm.
There were a nunil)er of reasons. But among others it might be well to remember that persecu- tion seldom came from their neighbors, the com- mon people, but rather from the rulers, especially the clergy, priests, parish clergy, bishops, doctors of i)hilosophy, and other tax-supported and autocrat- ically appointed rulers of religious affairs, with fat salaries and positions of honor and influence, whose economic and social status would be seriously threat- ened by either a rival state system, or especially by the simple voluntary church organization advo- cated and practiced by the Mennonites, with their unpaid ministry and popularly controlled church organization.
We need not necessarily charge these rulers with blood lust or special delight at the sight of human suffering. They were fighting for their jobs, as were the Pharisees and Sadducees when they cruci- fied Jesus. Even torture was resorted to, not for the purpose of inflicting pain or as a punishment for the sins of heresy, but rather for the purpose of securing a recantation and restoration to the established church. All through history persecu- tion, both religious and political, has had a strong economic or political basis.
Up to about twenty-five years ago, the time of the first world war, most of us would have said that the age of the martyrs was past, that the world had be- come too civilized to engage in such atrocities. But recent history has shown us that we were wrong. Bolshevist brutalities within the past twenty-five years, and Nazi barbarism since then, to say no- thing' about the bombing and butchering of whole masses of innocent civilians, women and children as well as men, even among the so-called civilized nations all over the world is proof sufficient that this thing we call civilization is but a very thin ven- eer.
Scratch but the surface of our social order, and soon under pressure of selfish interests and allow- ing free reign to the unbridled elemental passions of human nature, you immediately expose the savage instincts to which human kind so easily reverts in times of great crises.
Human nature after all has not changed much for the better in the last thousand years, and if left to itself without proper direction will not make for higher levels of civilization. It needs the continued ■motivation of the redemptive love of the Saviour of mankind and the guiding influence of the accumu- lated wisdom of the ages to make it function for a better world.
We must look to religion and education using that
Januarv
term in its broadest sense, including all the : influences that help to change our ideas, ther( as the two forces that will lead us to a brightci ture. Whatever may happen in the course of < to all our other social institutions, the church the school at least must ever remain an integral perpetual part of our social structure. We can ne get along without them so long as human kind mains on the earth. Religious education must main a never ending process. Not any kind religion, of course, nor just any kind of educati but a religion committed to the basic concepts the New Testament as found in the Sermon on Mount, and an educational program that recogni the sacredness of human personality and which the courage to supplant the vicious nationalism prevalent today with the broader doctrine of universal brotherhood of man and world citizensl Only then will the kingdom as visualized by J in one of his well known parables becomes a re zation
"The kingdom of heaven is like to the grain mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in field:"
"Which indeed is the least of all seeds; but w: it is grown, it is the greatest among the herbs, becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air c( and lodge in the branches thereof."
Has the day of martyrs passed? Would our ya people today, or older ones too, for that mat show the same sublime courage for the preservai of the faith as that shown by their forefathers ] centuries ago? I think they would under press A fine example of the sacrificial spirit latent in hearts of our young Mennonites is found among two thousand or more young men in the C. P.fS! camps, who deliberately chose to minister to v. needs of their fellow human beings under the ns! distressing circumstances, without pay or hope'oi future reward, against a strong adverse populai; ip- inion, willing to enter any kind of service, no mae how dangerous or difficult, if only it be construct rather than destructive and in keeping with t :i; religious convictions. And all of this when tpy might easily and legally have been granted for jhe mere asking non-combatant service, which off(|e(i the maximum of benefits with the minimum of c- rifice and with popular acclaim. This choice tjes tremendous courage. It is to this spirit that we niist look for the future hope of our faith. Sacrific- i' still the price of progress. The Christian spiri i- propagated and preserved not by killing, but by y ing for it. The blood of the martyrs is still h-: seed of the chixrch.
"Today is improvement day, not tomorrow."
1944
THE MENNONiTE
Page Seven
MENNONITES and RURAL LIFE
By J. Wiufield Fietz
STRENGTHENING THE RURAL CHURCH In the ideal Christian community the church is at the center. Among Mennonites this has traditionally been the pattern of community organization. When new communities were started one of the very first buildings erected was a church building, or perhaps a school house which served a double purpose as meet- ing house and educational center. In the new com- munity the early settlers sought to locate as close to church and school buildings as possible. As the com- munity grew settlement was pushed farther and far- ther out on the fringes of the local parish. In time a second meeting house was erected. It gradually be- came the center of a new community social and reli- gious life, and the growing process was demonstrated all over again.
What Has Happened?
If one observes carefully the situation in his own community he may find that the church is no longer the center. Every pastor should have a spot map of the members of his congregation. If he doesn't have one he can easily make one. With the use of a road map he can quickly draw the main roads of his par- ish. On these roads he can spot the location of the homes of his members. With this done it is easy to see how far the members are scattered, at what dis- tance they live from the chtirch, whether the church is centrally located and many other valuable points of significance regarding the church. Many Mennonite ministers who take the time to do this will discover that their church is no longer the center of the com- munity, that the members do not live close to the church and that in fact there is only a weak shell where once was a strong, solid, closely settled body of com- mon believers that formed a religious community. What Can Be Done?
A mere discovery of the true facts in the situation will not solve the problem, but it will be a start in the right direction. It will give a clue to the answer to many problems. Two churches come to my mind where such is the case. As old Mennonite farmers re- tired or died the farms gradually passed into the hands t){ non-Mennonites. Young Mennonites found jobs in the cities or bought farms at a distance. This situ- ation can be remedied. In our local churches mem- bers ought to make it a common concern to help prospective young farmers find a farm in the local area. Instead of old people selling their farms to the high- est bidder they might be taught to be concerned with the future welfare of the church and sell their farms to fellow-church members. It would be a legitimate con- cern of home mission boards to see that local churches remain strong and vigorous as well as to come to the rescue of small struggling ones that have become de- pendent.
C.P.S. Camps
A New Type of Service has been provided for C.P.S. men in the opening up of a project for dairy artificial insemination. The project will be con- ducted in Lancaster and York Counties, Pennsyl- vania.
PEACE SECTION NOTES "What If They Say ?"
"The Bible contains contradictory teachings on the matter of war and non-resistance." "The Ser- mon on the Mount is not intended for Christians today." "Jesus' teachings on non-resistance are limited to personal relations." "According to Ro- mans 13:1-7 and I Peter 2:13-17, Christians should submit to government and render military service." "Non-resistant people are parasites on society who return nothing for what society gives them."
These statements and fifty others that the non- resistant Christian must be prepared to answer are answered in the booklet, "Must Christians Fight?" published by the Peace Section of the Men- nonite Central Committee. The booklet may be obtained by ordering from the E. V. Publishing House, 301 N. Elm Street, Nappanee, Indiana, or from the M.C.C. Akron, Pennsylvania. Price, $ .20i per copy, or $ .15 each for ten tO' one hundred copies,, and $ .10 per copy for orders of a hundred or more..
Released December 29, 194S Compiled by Irvin B. Horst
THE SCHWEITZER CO. CASE (Continued from page one)
attorney. The climax apparently came at the ques- tion:
"What would you tell a student who came to you to ask whether it was right to bear arms?" To this Schweitzer replied:
"I would tell him that when he grew old enough,, the experience he had would have to determine his answer."
The answer brought a chorus of cheers from the audience and the hearing was immediately turned into an open forum with parents. Legion members, clergymen and spectators alternately praising and denouncing him. When the meeting was officially closed, it was 15 minutes before order could be restored.
The School Board Decision About three weeks later, the School Board hand-, ed down its decision that Schweitzer should be re- moved. Its resolution declared that his conduct and attitude were "wholly inimical to the ideals of cit-. izenship" and that he had "become and now is in-. capable and incompetent longer to perform his full duty as a teacher or dean."
— The Reporter
Editor's note: Mr. Schweitzer took the case to court after the school board decision. A Florida, circuit court has now ordered Schweitzer to be re- instated in his position. The school authorities in question state that they wiU take the case to thQ Supreme Court if necessary.
Page iM^ht THE MENNONl TE January ii
DAILY DEVOTIONAL MESSAGES
By Rev. Ihmard Raid, h'ortuna, Missouri
JANUARY 17 " II III ken: Behold there went oul a sower to sow." Mark 4:3
Jesus is the Master of leaching methods. Note He starts oul with the word "Harken" for He knows that He must get the people's attention before they will actually hear what He has to say. Then He uses the word "Behold." At the word "Harken" they stopped to listen, and at the word "Behold" they focused their c()ini)lete attention upon what Jesus had to say.
JANUARY 18—" . . • hut to them I hat are without, all these tilings arc done in parables. Mark 4:11
The Master illustrated His great truths by telling a simple story with an every day background. He knew that if He tried to tell the truth in abstract terms none would understand it. But if He used an illustration they could understand; then the ones who were willing to think for themselves would be able to apply this truth and thereby gain the needed light. The lazy-minded would not apply it, but they might repeat the story to others as a good story, and still miss the truth behind it, seeing but not perceiving. JANUARY 19 — "The Sower Soweth .the Word." Mark 4:14
Sometimes it seems that we are glad for this in- terpretation of the parable by Jesus, for it allows us to say to ourselves, "Well, I can not do any more, I am only able to produce thirty fold. There is no need for me to try and produce any more than this. I am doing the best that I can." Jesus said that it was not only the kind of soil but the condition that it is kept in that is also important. We cannot con- trol the kind of inheritance that we have, but we can control what we do' with it. We cannot stop the birds from flying over head, but we can keep them from nesting in our hair.
JANUARY 20 — "For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken that which he hath" Mark 4:25 -
This is the law that is written into all of life, physi- cally, mentally, and spiritually. In the physical realm it is called the law of "use and disuse." If we would possess the things that we have we must do two things : first we must appreciate them, and second we must use them. The sunset belongs to all of us, yet only those who take time to look at it really possess it. We may buy the finest Bible in the world, but if we do not use it we will lose the knowledge that is in it. JANUARY 21 — " . . . Whereunto shall we liken the Kingdom of God? ... . it is like a grain of mustard seed." Mark 4:30, 31
Jesus compares the Kingdom to things which are familiar to His people. First it is small but has life so it can grow; it becomes large, it has many branches.
it depends upon the soil in which it is sown for food and strength, it stands by itself, it is useful internally as an herb and externally as a shelter, it lives in the world that surrounds it, and its .seeds reproduce like it. So it is with the Kingdom-
JANUARY 22 "But grow in grace, and in the know- ledge of our Lord and Saviour." 11 Peter 3:18
O God, we thank Thee for Thine unrationed grace. May we use it more and share it with others, knowing that in so doing we increase it in ourselves. Help us this day to so live that our lives may radiate Thy goodness, mercy, sympathy, and understanding. For Thy name's sake we ask it. Amen. JANUARY 23 — "Give me understanding, and 1 shall keep thy Laiv." Psalms 119:34
What a change understanding could make in our world today, understanding in the family circle, un- derstanding in the church, understanding in the school, understanding in the state, in the nation, among na- tions, and understanding of the Kingdom of God. If we would take time to understand all of our relation- ships in the light of the laws of God we would be able to live in harmony with all people of all races. We would not be swayed by the propaganda stories of today, for we would understand that all men are made in the image of God, and for that reason, if for no other, we would treat them as brothers and thereby keep the laws of God, and bring His Kingdom to come upon earth.
RELIEF NOTES
Relief Worker for England Appointed
Additional workers are being secured for the work there. Glen R. Miller professor at Goshen College, has been appointed to serve for one year. He will leave in January. Two nurses, one from Canada and one from United States, are yet to be appointed.
Philadelphia Research Center
A busy place in Philadelphia is the Research Cen- ter located at 4035 Spruce Street. M. C. Lehman has his office at this place from which he contacts the C.P.S. Relief Training Units at Duke University Hospital, Durham, North Carolina; Howard, Rhode Island; and Polk County, Florida. Brother Lehman provides instruction and study materials for these units. Carl Kreider from Goshen College has the same responsibility in connection with the training units at Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Alexian Brothers Hospital, Chicago, Illinois:
In addition to his work with the relief training units. Brother Lehman is preparing a booklet on the history, program, and philosophy of M.C.C. as a relief agency. John E. Bender of the same office is preparing an area study booklet on Paraguay. These booklets are to be used In relief training.
1944
THE MENNONITE
Page Nine
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» Sponsored by ' { the Young People's i > Union of the i General Conference | |
Mennonite Youth |
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f EDITOR ! |
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> R. Welnbrenner \ i North Newton, i Kansas ! |
; "A United Mennonite Touth in Christ" i |
Y.P.U. Ol-x-iCERS
President Ted E. Claassen Newton, Kansas
Arthur Wenger Vice President Shatter, Calif.
Dorothy DIetz Secretary-Treasurer Quakertown, Pa.
Pulls 608 Teeth in Four and One-half Days
Record Set by Dr. Klassen in Paraguay Pulling 608 teeth from 254 people in four and one- half days — that is the record reported by Dr. G. S. Klassen from the Friesland colony in Paraguay in a letter written from the Philadelphia colony on Novem- ber 25 to relatives here. According to the letter "the people have terribly bad teeth. It is nothing unusual to find a dozen or more bad teeth . . .Many have only two to six teeth in all."
Speaking of the Indians who live around the Fern- heim colony Dr. Klassen sayg that they are very peaceful, honest, and friendly. "And the funny part;" he remarks, "is that they practically all speak Low German." Since Dr. Klassen relates many other in- teresting facts about their experiences and about con- ditions in the colonies we quote highlights from the letter.
Celebrate Thanksgiving Day "Today is Thanksgiving day here for us also. We are six workers from the States here at the present time. Besides us there are Dr. and Mrs. John Schmidt and two young men, Mr. Geigley and Mr. Vernon Schmidt. The six of us are having a duck dinner to- night. Viola is personally fixing two ducks for us all. Fruit is rather scarce here at this time of the year. But there is some wild fruit in the jungle; we also get some lemons of which we make a strong lemonade. We once in a while buy some canned fruit, but that is about twice as high in price as at home. The people here eat a lot of baked stuff. They should eat more vegetables and fruit. A little later there will be lots of oranges, tangerines, lemons, grapefruit, and grapes. The trees are full of green fruit. They cannot raise potatoes here, only sweet potatoes. I never realized just how much I could miss them. They have had very much rain here in the two weeks that we have been here, so they are looking for good crops in cotton, kafir corn, etc. Al- most every day we get bread baked of kafir flour mostly. It is good, but not as good as the good old rye bread at home. They say for Christmas we will have lots of watermelons. You know it is spring here and we will soon have green beans from the garden.
My office is in one end of the hospital in one large room which we have partitioned. There was no furni- ture or equipment. But they have very good carpen-
ters, so I drew the plans and had them make a dental chair, cabinet, cuspidor, wash stand, sterilizing table. The instruments we sterilize above a small gasoline stove, and it works very well. In Friesland the girl had to carry the instruments outside to a summer kitchen and boil them on a mud stove, "sporhead," as we used to call them. The chair is made so that it can be raised and lowered, also tilted back. Every- thing is made of good cedar wood. At the present time I have only the extracting instruments along, all the other things, also the material for 'making dentures, is coming on the steamer. We hope it comes soon because there is lots to do here. I am also supposed to train a few men to make dentures and extractions.
Must tell you a little about our driving in a wagon. To go to Friesland we stepped off the ship on a mud bank at a small Paraguayan village. From here the Mennonites took us in a wagon, 32 miles, to the colony. We made this in one day's driving. Believe me, to sit in a wagon without springs for eleven hours is interesting. In the whole stretch was not even one mile of graded road, at many places only a nar- row path through the jungle. We were always watch- ing for limbs or branches of trees that might hit us on the head. At one place we drove in water for more than two miles. At some places we would al- most upset. But here to Fernheim from the end station railroad, 70 miles it took two days. The second day it rained all day.
It is rather difficult to imagine all this, but very likely by the time you get this letter it will be Christ- mas, so we wish you a merry Christmas.
— George and Viola Klassen — Reprinted from Hillsboro Journal
NEW QUARTERLY WELL LIKED
High praise has been expressed by various compe- tent individuals who have inspected the new Men- nonite Junior Quarterly. Reports have come from a considerable number of Sunday Schools that use it, that they like the quarterly. Are you a pastor, Sunday School superintendent or teacher who has not seen this quarterly? Copies may be had free of charge from the Mennonite Publication Office. Write today.
Fret Not Yourself Because of Evil
By Karl Baehr
^'O God, in despair I cry unto Thee
I can no longer dream of man's goodness or of Thy power!
My spirit has drained away, leaving my soul lifeless — a victim of the
unquenchable fire of evil. The world is in the throes of death; night is ruler of the day; Goodness and mercy are lost; love is a hollow mockery — unrealistic — an
im.practicable ideal. How then can justice and love ever cast a canopy of peace over the
earth?
How can the cross of Christ win an enduring brotherhood? "My despondency is complete, O God.
I had hoped that the Christ would redeem the world; that he would
draw all men unto himself; But death, in a thousand garbs, is trampling upon mankind: Bombs and bullets are violently tearing flesh and bone; Starvation is slowly absorbing the bodies of millions; Disease is invading weakened bodies, leaving them lifeless. Is there a Messiah who can raise out of this destruction the abundant
life?
"My weakness, O God, overwhelms me.
In the night I cry for forgiveness and love to fill the hearts of men;
I plead for a rebirth of conscientiousness and the spirit of reconciliation.
But the sound of my voice is lost — not even the echo is released by the devils of the night.
I am pitied as a duped idealist and a sentimental dreamer.
When, O God, will Thy prophets be heard and their words be respect- fully heeded?
When will Thy creation lend an ear to Thy voice?"
1
i
si
i
[Then, exhausted by my outburst of despair, My wretched body and destitute soul surrendered to sleep. In the depth of that sleep the almighty God covered me with His presence.
I could not see Him, nor could I hear His voice; I only felt the inrush of His wisdom and power. My faith was rebuilt and my zeal rekindled.
My thoughts turned inward, and I found my lips echoing the voice of God.)
"Rise, my soul. Tou were deluded by the world's mad race. Tou staked the greatness of God on this crushing hour and abdicated your faith.
Time, you know, is but the rising and the setting of the sun; ' It is the succession of generations, the march of events, the thrust of life
within eternity;
It is the symbol of restlessness, of fleeting ambitions, and tired hearts;
It is the noise of today battling the stuff of eternity;
It is the rain of divine patience on proud and arrogant man.
"Be still, my soul; the universe belongs to God.
You have been a slave to the idea that man must inevitably progress
toward perfection; You have dreamed that the triumph of God in the universe is in the
hands of man. Though evil be in the saddle, it cannot win the race — ■• Be not deceived; God has overcome the world.
Christ, who still atones for evil with forgiveness, love, and immortal
life, rescues man out of destruction. Progress is the continuous overcoming of evil with good.
"Raise your voice, my soul, and speak patiently of truth and love. Work for justice and righteousness without binding your will to the
necessity of liquidating evil — For the creative conquest of ever-present evil lies in doing justly, loving
mercy, and forgiving abundantly. Qood is discovered in lifting up the fallen, healing the broken-hearted,
and chastening the spiritually dead; Truth and love are latent within conflict and in each recurring crises: For good is not a static fact, nor an isle of blessedness, but the glory of
resolved evil.
Good is everlastingly rescued out of defeat, despair, and a cross."
— Chicago, Illinois
Page Twelve THE
CORRESPONDENCE
HEBRON MKNNONl TK (TIURCH Buhler, Kansas
The three mission societies the Mission Workers, the Candlelighters, and the Helping Hands- of the Hel)r()n Mennonite Church (Huhlcr, Kansas) had their annual mission sale in November and realized $1,332.75. This sum is to be used for such items as India Relief, Leper Hospital, the retired Missionary Pension Fund, Civilian PubHc Service camps, Para- guay hospital needs, etc- Mrs. P. A. Penner was our guest speaker and gave a very illuminating and chal- lenging talk.
The Helping Hands — a high school age group of girls — had Rev. J. M. Regier speak to them on "Plome Mission Work in Mexico" for their October meeting. They invited the rest of the Hebronites and their friends to be their guests. It was a good and profitable meeting. At another of their monthly meetings they had Mrs. John Suderman from Oraibi, Arizona, address them on "Mission work in Arizona" and we all learned many things of interest.
Two of our C.P.S. boys were able to spend a Thanks- giving furlough with home folks. From here they left for detached service in a mental hospital in Kala- mazoo, Michigan- They were Austin Regier and Ervin Siemens of Fort Collins, Colorado. Another one of our C.P.S. boys, John Lohrentz of Lapine, Oregon, was home on furlough earlier in the fall.
In December our church adopted the Hundred Per- cent Subscription Plan, and the members of the Mis- sion Societies are busy canvassing the new and old subscribers with satisfactory results. We do need to feed our souls, not only our bodies, if we want to live spiritually.
— Correspondent
FIRST MENNONITE CHURCH Berne, Indiana
This morning, December 30, this church bade good- bye to their pastor and his wife, Dr. and Mrs. Suckau, as they left for their new field of labor in Omaha, Nebraska. On Sunday morning December 19, the church gave them a cash love offering, which with what has come in since from such that could not be present amounted to over $1,200. On Sunday, Decem- ber 26, Dr. Suckau preached his final sermon. This was a communion service, at which time three young men and women were baptized and taken into church membership- In the evening a farewell service was held for the paster and wife, arranged by the Board of Deacons. Brief words of appreciation and farewell were spoken by representatives of the various organi- zations of the church. Dr. and Mrs. Suckau each
JNONITE January 11
also .spoke briefly. At the close, the 121st Psalm was beautifully rendered in song by the Men's Chorus.
We are grateful for the ministry of these dear jjeople among us. Our prayers, good-will, and well wishes go with them as they enter upon their new work. As we think over their ministry here, we feel led to give recognition to two special phases of their ministry which stand out prominently, namely, the faithful, uncompromising preaching of the Word by the Pastor, and the .sympathetic ministry of both Dr. and Mrs. Suckau among the sick and bereaved of the congregation. This will ever be cherished among the memories of their ministry here. May God richly reward them.
It may be of interest to some to know that during the fifteen years of his pastorate here, Dr- Suckau preached approximately 800 sermons, baptized 574 persons, united 169 couples in marriage, and con- ducted 184 funerals.
Rev. and Mrs. J. P. Suderman, who are at present on leave from their work among the American Indians, are expected here this evening to take up the work temporarily until a new pastor is secured. We bid them welcome into our midst and trust that our ministry together will be one of rich blessing.
— Martha Gilliom, Corr.
EMMANUEL MENNONITE CHURCH Delft, Minnesota
People have been taking inventories of their lives for the sake of improving them in the new year. May Christians realize that this should be an every- day matter. Let us confess our short-comings and receive God's cleansing.
Our church had a time of soul-feeding the first twelve days of December. The Rev. Erwin R. Wedel conducted evening services. He came to us from Jasper, Alabama, where he and his wife work among neglected negroes, bringing them God's Word. Mr. Wedel is a very efficient children's worker. Each evening he illustrated a Bible story on flannelgraph. The children learned many choruses and Bible verses. Object lessons were used to make more vivid the truths of the Bible. While he ministered to the children, the adults were also strengthened in the faith. The necessity of prayer was definitely stress- ed throughout the services. If Christians would only realize the value of prayer. We thank God that souls came to the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
The young people enjoyed a social on the even- ing of December 26. After the recreational period we sang for some of our old people. Later we gath- ered around a table to sing familiar Christmas car- ols.
Prayer services are scheduled for the first few eve- nings of the new year. May we make this year count definitely for God. — Corr.
1944
THE MENNONITE
Page Thirteen
GRACE MENNONITE CHURCH
The Grace Mennonite Church of Pandora, Ohio raised ipiioo.oo for missionary purposes during the Thanksgiving season, $700 of which was raised dur- ing the Thanlisgiving morning service and $400 through a sale of harvest products, halved goods, and handmade articles. We felt especially privileged in having Harvey and Ella Bauman, who have served two terms in India, with us for the Thanksgiving service. Both brought inspiring messages.
The Sunday following a special communion ser- vice was held remembering the young men absent from us in the C.P.S. camps and in the armed forces.
The ladies of the church recently held their annual mother-daughter banquet in which all the women and girls of the church participated. Mrs. Clayton Steiner, a local missionary to Peru, gave the address.
The Sunday School has organized an orchestra which greatly assists in the service.
The pastor, Rev. Forrest Musser, has started a series of prayer services on the subject "Men Who Spoke for God."
— Mrs. Sidney Steiner
MENNONITE BIBLE ACADEMY
North Newton, Kansas
Greetings to the Editor and Readers of The Menno- nite:
By the fourteenth of this month the Mennonite Bible Academy will have finished its first semester of work. Has the effort that has been set forth to make this school possible been worth while? On Monday morning, January 3, the first day after a two-weeks vacation, the teachers were greeted by some forty happy students that were glad to be back in school. This gave the teachers a feeling of satis- faction that the Academy is not in vain and that it is worthwhile to exert greater effort to build it up and have the school help fill a vital need in our Church.
We need Christian workers in our Church and in our country. That the Academy may do its share in supplying this need, the school works toward a definite religious experience by the students which will enable them to go into the various communities and take their rightful places in the activities of the Church.
At this time the Academy would like to extend an invitation to those that plan on going to high school the second semester, as we are giving a full four- year course plus a required Bible subject for each year.
Cordially yours, Theodore Schmidt, Principal
IN MEMORIAM
HENRY F. GKABER, son of Peter J. P. and Freni Schrag Graber, was born on July 12, 1899, near Freeman, South Dakota, and died November 24, 1943, at the home of his parents where he had lived all his life. Death came after thirty years of suffer- ing. He was baptized by Rev. C. Hege and became a member of the Salem Church. He is survived by his parents; two sisters, Ella and Tille; five brothers, Jonathan, Edwin, John, Paul, and Felix.
LYDIA MILLER HIRSCHLER, daughter of Jacob and Eugenia Miller, was born on December 29, 1901, near Hanston, Kansas, and died December 16, 1943. In 1934 she was married to Menno Hirschler. One child, Thelma Ann, was born to this marriage. She and her husband first lived at Burrton, Kansas. In 1936 they moved to their farm near Hanston. Lydia Miller Hirschler was baptized in 1917 by Rev. Chris- tian Hirschler and received into the membership of the Hanston Mennonite Church, of which she was a member at the time of her death.
DORA BARTEL LINSCHEID, daughter of George A. Bartel and Susan Unruh Bartel, was born on Ap- ril 11, 1901, at Hillsboro, Kansas, and died November 16, 1943. With her parents she moved to Aberdeen, Idaho, in 1906. She was baptized and accepted into the Mennonite Church in 1915. She founded the True Blue Mission Society of the Aberdeen Church. In 1922 she was graduated from the Bible Institute of Los Angeles. Following two years of training at Bethel College she taught school in Aberdeen. In 1926 she was married to Marvin D. Linscheid. To this union was born one daughter LaVerne, who now with her father mourns the departed.
R. MENDELSSOHN AMSTUTZ, son of Peter D. and Helena Steiner Amstutz, died at Pandora, Ohio, November 16, 1943, at the age of forty-nine after a lengthy illness of cardia asthma. He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Melvlna Burry of Pandora, and Mrs. Hilda Thomas of Chatham, New Jersey. Mr. Amstutz was a graduate of Juniata College, Huntingdon, Pa. He also completed a theological course at Dallas Theological Seminary, Dallas, Texas.
ANDREW STEFFEN, twenty-seven. Pandora, Ohio, was killed in action in the southwest Pacific in July. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Steffen; four sisters, Nellie of Dayton, Mrs. Bessie Green of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mrs. Ar- lene Snare of Chesterland, and Ruth at home; and four brothers, Willis, Leonard, and Harry in the navy, and John at home.
LINFORD FOULKE, son of Charles and Anna (nee Heacock) was born in Richland Township, Pa., December 21, 1872, and died November 28, 1943. He married Mary C. Gerhart in 1900. He was or- dained to the ministry at the Saucon Mennonite Church in 1915 by Elder H. W. Shelly. Brother Foulke served the Saucon Church for seventeen years. In 1932 he was received into the member- ship of the East Swamp Mennonite Church.
Pago I'ourti'on
THE MENNONITE
January ii
ANDRKW T. VVEDKI., son of Rov. T. P. and Eva Wodol, was born Docomber IG, 1878, in McPhorson County, Kansas. He was bapti/.ed in 1897 by Peter Balzcr and rocvivcd into the Canton Mcnnonite Church noar Mounchid^o. Later ho joined the New IIoixHiale Mennonile Church north of Rinfjwood, Oklahoma. In 1!)0() he married Elizabeth Unruh. He died November 20, 194.3.
MAUGAKET KPP, daughter of Jacob and Marie Wiebe, was born on December 4, 1873, at Herren- hagen. West Prussia. She received elementary schooling by private instruction in the home of her parents. In 1888 she came to Beatrice, Nebraska, with her parents. She was baptized by Elder Ger- hard Penner and received into the Mennonite Church in 1890. In 1897 she was married to Abraham Epp. She died December 25, 1943.
City Visitation Work Very Necessary
(Continued from page 4)
1 had 125 children enrolled for the vacation Bible school before the school opened. Over eighty of these attended our school. During the school I had charge of the Primary Department.
I served as Girls' Counsellor at the High School Retreat, and also at the Young People's Retreat in
July.
At the request of the Second Mennonite church I also made a number of calls for them during the year.
Some new people, both children and adults, have been coming to Sunday School and other services, as a result of my humble efforts.
Catherine Niswander, 2011 North yth Street, Phila- delphia.
« « JOTTINGS » >>
-Bethesda Mennonite Church, Henderson, Nebras ka: The Young Women's Mission Society is begin- ning a series of studies on Latin America with spe- cial programs on Paraguay and Puerto Rico. The reporter says, "With fellow Mennonites in both of these countries we are certain that these programs will be interesting. . . .Also we hope that they will inform our members as to what has been done and what should be done as far as Christianity is con- cerned in South America. Our Conference is making investigations as to establishing a mission in South America. Our interest in the undertaking will de- pend to a great extent on the knowledge we have in this work." The membership of the Bethesda Church is now 831 which makes it the third larg- est in the conference.
Married: Arnold A. Fast and AdeUne Becker.
Brother Fast is in charge of the mission work in Toronto, Canada, that is being sponsored by the Home Mission Board of the General Conference. The couple will be at home at 15 Laws Street, Toronto. — Married: Malcohn Wenger and Esther Baehr. Brother Wenger has already spent some time on
our General Conference mission field in Montana. According to present plans he and his wife will serve this field for our Foreign Mission Board in the future. Both are now studying at Bethel College. — The Federal Bun^aii of Investigation has checked up on 10,094 registrants who claimed to be conscien- tious objectors, according to the Department of Jus- tice. There wore G,685 men in C.P.S. as of November 30, 1943.^The Reporter.
Eden Mennonite Church, Moundridge, Kansas:
Rev. Walter Gering left on January 4 for Freeman, South Dakota to attend the funeral of his grand- mother. The father of Rev. Walter Gering was op- erated recently, but according to latest reports is recovering satisfactorily.
Peter W. Goering-, who was ordained to the minis- try on December 26, is serving the Methodist church- es at Barnes and Lynn, Kansas, alternating at these two places. Brother and Sister Goering are both teaching in the Barnes high school.— Upon the death of one of its members one of the women's Sunday School classes gave twenty-nine dollars to M.C.C. relief in honor of the deceased.
— New orders for about 2,500 copies of the German Sunday School quarterly, Sonntagschul-Lektionen,
have recently come to the Mennonite Publication Office. The total orders for this quarterly now run over the 10,000 mark. It is the only German quarter- ly published by our conference. C. H. A. van der Smissen was editor of it for many years. He has now retired and Rev. J. M. Regier is the new editor of it. The "Old" Mennonites have stopped publish- ing their German quarterly.
—No deacon for sixty years. That is the history of the Zion Mennonite Church, Elbing, Kansas. It has, however, had a board of trustees. Nov/ recently at its annual meeting the congregation decided to have a deacon and elected J. L. Regier to that position. —Jacob Friesen, ministerial student at Bethel Col- lege, is to be ministerial assistant to Rev. David •Wedel, pastor of the First Mennonite Church, Hal- stead, Kansas, from now to about the close of the school year. The ministerial assistant is frequently asked to teach a Sunday School class, to help in the morning worship service, to preach the children's sermon, to work with C.E. groups, to visit members, etc. It is a splendid provision for young men who plan to serve churches and at the same time is of real help to the congregation. Brother Friesen serv-
THE MENNONITE
Weekly religious journal of the GENERAL CONFERENCE OF THE M^NONITE CHURCH OF NORTH AMERICA
Devoted to the interest of the MENNONITE CHURCH and THE CAUSE OF CHRIST, in general ^^„^y.
Published every Tuesday, except the weeks of Jnly Fourth and Christmas, by the Board of Publication of the General Conference.
Business Office: Mennonite Publication Off ice^^ Newton Kan. Editor .. Reynold Weinbrenner, North Newton. Kansas Subscription in advance, $1.75 Foreign, $2.25
Address all contributions and communications for this paper, and exchanges, to THE MENNONITiS. North Newton,
^^a?l* all subscriptions and payments for this pape?, to MENNONITE PUBI.TCATTON OFFICE. NEWTON. KANSAS.
1944
THE MENNONITE
Page Fifteen
ed as ministerial interne at the First Mennonitc Church, Reedley, this past summer. He is a member of the Bethel Mennonite Church, Mountain Lake, Minnesota.
— The Service Committee of the Church of the Breth- ren suggested to members of Brethren churches be- fore Christmas that they give for relief the equiva- lent of the wages of one day above that which they normally gave for the church program. — Orders for copies of Must Christians Fig'ht are coming in from various places to the undersigned. If you do not have a copy of this booklet, write for it today. Have an answer for that member in your church who says, 'We must fight, for the Bible says that there shall be wars and rumours of war." Those in the Western District may order from Rey- nold Weinbrenner, North Newton, Kansas. Those in other districts should be able to get copies of the booklet from their peace committees.
— A CO. teacher in Miami, Florida, was ousted from his job by the school board last September up- on charges of incompetency. This charge seems to have been based solely on the fact that he was a CO. However, this CO., Schweitzer by name, was praised by his superior as an excellent teacher. Now a Florida circuit court has ordered the county board of public instruction to reinstate Schweitzer as science teacher and dean of boys in the junior high school in question. '
— C.O.'s are among the "most reliable workers" ever employed in mental institutions. So declares Dr. George S. Stevenson, executive-secretary of the National Committee for Mental Hygiene. "They have a definite, sympathetic feeling for people un- der their care," he reported. By November 30, a total of 1,166 C.O.'s v/ere working in mental hos- . pitals. This num^ber has, undoubtedly, been con- siderably enlarged by this time.
— The Mennoville Mennonite Church, north of El Reno, Oklahoma, commemorated its fiftieth anni- versary on November 28. A large number attended. Many old friends got to see each other and to call to mind experiences of long ago. — War Restrictions Affect The Mennonite: Due to government restrictions on the paper supply, this paper will appear once a month with fewer than the regular number of pages. However, through the use of different type we hope to bring to our read- ers practically the same amount of material that they have received heretofore.
— Otto Hirschler, who is organist of the Wilshire Christian Church of Los Angeles, gave an organ re- cital to the First Mennonite Church of Upland on January 9. Mr. Hirschler is a prominent member of the Southern California Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, as v^ell as of the California Music Teachers' Association and the Musician's Club of Loss Angeles, and he has played in many of the leading churches of Long Beach and Los Angeles.— Bulletin, Upland Church. — Decide to vote for pastor every three years: This was the decision of the First Mennonite Church of Berne at its business meeting held recently. The
decision resulted in a change of the church consti- tution.--A commmittee is to see to the landscaping of the church and parsonage grounds.
— C. E. Banquet of Eden Mennonite Church: The
annual CE. banquet was held with a large group of young people attending. Professor Bernhard Barg- en of Bethel College was the main speaker. There were also short talks by members of the CE.
— Rev. P. H. Richert, Secretary of the Foreign Mis- sion Board, recently attended the Foreign Missions Conference held in Chicago. Rev. A. E. Kreider, another member of the board, also attended. On the way home Brother Richert visited the CO. unit at Ypsilanti, Michigan. The Mennonite Church at Madrid, Nebraska, has invited Brother Richert to hold services there during the last week in Janu- ary. Brother Alvin Fast is pastor of the church.
Gratitude for Songbooks Letters of appreciation have been received from German war prisoners for the German Christmas songbooks printed and distributed by the M.CC
WHILE THEY LAST
We still have some Christmas greeting cards in $1.00 box assortments, which will be excel- lent for use next Christmas. While they last, we offer them to our customers at
2 boxes for $1.00 postpaid
Please specify whether cards are wanted with or without Scripture texts.
MENNONTE BOOK CONCERN Berne, Indiana
ORDER BLANK
After January 1, 1944 the following prices will be in effect on The Mennonite: NEW SUBSCRIP- TIONS $1.25 for the first year, RENEWALS $1.75 per year. This advance in the price is made nec- essary by the greatly increased cost of producing the paper under present conditions.
Please use this Order Blank when sending in your subscription and underscore the word N E W or RENEWAL to correspond with the type of subscription you are paying for.
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Subscribers living in Kansas should include 2% Sales Tax. Remittances from Canada should be by Postal Money Order only. Please write plainly to avoid errors in name and address.
MENNONITE PUBLICATION OFFICE Newton, Kansas
Page Sixteen
THE MENNONri E
January ii
KASTKItN DISTllICT CONFERKNCK Rollu'l, IN'rUiisie — Stc-rcoplicon viows of the birth and boyhood of Jesus were presented during the Christmas i)rouram. The Sunday School is spon- soring an all(>ndance cont(>st during the first quar- ter of V.m. Any one bringing eight visitors to Sunday School will receive a $5.00 Bible and any one bringing four visitors during the quarter will receive a Testament valued at $2.75.
SprinKl'iold Several of the members assisted in the Christmas program in the Perkasie Church. The pastor of the Perkasie -Springfield Charge, the Rev. Ward W. Shelly, is calling attention to the importance of subscribing to The Mcnnonite.
Eden, Sehwenksville— At a recent service the of- ferings for the Mcnnonite Central Committee amoun- ted to approximately $250. The annual congrega- tional meeting was held on January 1 at seven o'clock in the evening so that" more members might attend.
—Deep Bun— The C. E.
Relief Project was brought to a successful close Sunday December 12, with the offering amounting to $211.03. The young people of the church planned to spend Saturday, January 8, at Men-O-Lan to begin the construction of their ca- bin at the Retreat Grounds.
Souderton— Dr. J. EL Hartzler, pastor, is de- livering a series of lec- tures at the Sunday- evening services. The themes for January are: 2, "Life, What does it Mean?," 9, "The Land and the Book," 16, "Pa- lestine and The Jews," 23, "Divine Revelation," and 30, "The Authority of Jesus."
First, Phila. — In a re- cent church bulletin, the pastor, the Rev. J. J. Plenert, inserted the fol- lowing, "Tithing Does it! It gives churches confi- dence. It convinces men and women that it is more blessed to give than to receive. It cre- ates a new race of Chris- tians who put God and His Kingdom FIRST in their lives. It means adequately paid pastors, renovated buildings, re-
built organs,, improved Sunday School, more missionaries, better colleges, and more self respect."
I''airl'h>l(l— The Closing Union Vesper Service was held on Sunday evening December 19. The joint choirs presented a Cantata. There were ten mem- bcis from our church in the Choir.
—Howard G. Nyce, Conf. Corr.
Dairy Herd Improvement Units in Pennsylvania
and Michigan will be increased by seven and eight men respectively. C.P.S. men serving in these units have been doing a good job and as a whole are pleased with the opportunity to do this type of work.
The January 1 Bethel College Bulletin will be a 1944 calendar with a Bethel College picture.
This is. the meetinghouse which Howard G. Nyce is
of the First Mennonite Church, AUentown. Pa., of| pastor. See the 1944 YEARBOOK for the historyj of this church.
POSTMASIER X KORfH NEWTOW, KANSAS'
The Mennonite
"Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid which is Jesus Christ.'' VOL. LIX NORTH NEWTON, KANSAS, JANUARY i8, 1944 NUMBER 3
Entered at the post office at North Newton, Kansas, as second-class matter. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1103. Act of October 3, 1917. Authorized January 22, 1919.
Primary Bible Story Book
Some time ago we raised the question in this paper as to whether our conference should produce a Pri-
; mary Bible Story Book. Several helpful replies came in answer. Below we present a letter received from Brother Menno Schrag, Superintendent of the First Mennonite Sunday School, Newton, Kansas: Dear Brother Weinbrenner:
Finally I am getting around to write you about your timely question in The Mennonite, "Shall we Provide a Bible Story Book?" If I am rather free in expres-
i ing my opinions, I assure you it is in a brotherly spirit and with a prayer that the suggestions might be constructive.
I feel that the arrangement in our Sunday Schools as far as lesson material is concerned is so completely out of line that it is almost a tragedy. In our public schools it is the children which are being educated; it is for them that graded courses, scientifically ar- ranged and prepared at tremendous cost, are outlined by specialists in the educational field. Can the Christian church bring any less care or talent to the teaching of the Sacred Scriptures? It seems to' me our entire program for the Sunday
[ School is an inverted pyramid. I have frequently said that in case our conference does not have the funds to publish material both for children and adults,
I it would be far better to omit the Senior Quarterlies,
I and let the Bible be the only text-book for adults, but use the available funds to publish first-class graded material for the children. This material should be Scriptural, true to the Bible, but also pedagogically correct. It should be in accordance with our particular Mennonite doctrines, designed for our own pupils.
Many of our problems today can be traced back to the fact that we have no program for the systematic training of our youth, children from six to twelve, in our Sunday Schools. May the Lord lead our con- I ference to definite action, for the salvation of our I youth and for His glory."
i IT'S LOVE
1 ^ "If you would try to sum up all the Old Testament in one word, I would suggest the word, righteousness.
If you would try a similar summary with the New Testament, I would say without question love. And this Christian love says' to the agony of the world: you must break men's hearts with Divine love. You must break men's hearts instead of men's heads. If God's love shines through you clearly enough it will work miracles." — Donovan Smucker
Oklahoma Convention Plans Extensive Program
The Church Worker's Committee of the Oklahoma Convention plans to promote the following activities in 1944:
/. Young People's Retreat: Possible places, time, theme, and leaders have been discussed. Oklahoma ministers will serve as leaders in order to save ex- penses.
//. Church Leaders' Conference: This is to replace the Oklahoma Ministers' Conference and is to include minister's wives and Sunday School superintendents. The program of this conference will include : Morning, Bible study and one theme. Afternoon, discussion of practical problems. For the discussion the con- ference is to meet in these three groups: ministers, Sunday School superintendents, and ministers' wives. Each is to discuss problems relating to its work. Evening, open to the public. This conference is to be held in February if possible.
///. Youth Conferences: Christian youth conferences are to be held for the Oklahoma churches witli mem- bers of the Church Worker's Committee acting as leaders. The following schedule was agreed upon:
Brother R. Schmidt, Carnegie, is to be the leader for the churches of Inola, Goltry, Meno, Gotebo, and Taloga.
Brother Lubin Jantzen is to lead for Enid, Geary, Medford, Deer Creek, and Carnegie.
Brother H. N. Harder is to be the leader at Hydro, Orienta, Turpin, Bergtal, and Herold-Sychar.
The Worker's Committee is asking each minister, minister's wife, and Sunday School superintendent to send in a topic or a problem that they would like to have included in the discussion of a particular group.
Members of the Church Worker's Committee are the brethren: Rudolph Schmidt, Lubin Jantzen, and Henry Harder. The last named is secretary.
THE MENNONITE
January i8
Every Man His Own Priest
Is the C^hristian of today, perhaps, somewhat care- less about the opportunity of being his own priest? Does he depend loo much upon the performances of relif^'ious specialists, such as the minister, the Sunday School teacher, etc., while ncf^lectinjj; opportunities for direct, personal communion with God, his Heavenly Father? Does he spend more time and energy regu- larly in group worship than in "enter into thy closet" worship?
Before the days of Jesus, and even into his time, the priest in the temple was a significant factor in the spiritual life of the people. However, we do not find Jesus urging the people to rely upon the per- formances of the priest. He declared unto them a loving Father in heaven, who wants men to be his children. The child-father relationship suggests a very direct and personal fellowship.
Many in the early. Apostolic Church undoubtedly experienced the glories of such a relationship. Then arose the Catholic Church with all its intricate machinery for salvation. Priests again officiated in elaborate edifices. The Word of God was lost to the masses. The individual Christian felt dependent upon those who professed to have the keys to heaven and hell.
The Reformation cut the cords that were chokmg the individual and left him free to do his own pray- ing to God, his own reading of God's Word, and his own meditation upon it. A surge of spirituality swept Europe as men and women learned to know their heavenly Father better and began to approach him as children approach their father.
Time swept on from the slow sixteenth century to the twentieth with its airplane speed. The ordinary Protestant Christian still has the opportunity to be his own priest. But the monster Hurry Hurry seeks to block the Christian in his personal, direct ap- proach to God. This modern monster succeeds in many cases; there is no searching, unhurried medi- tation upon the scriptures and no refreshing heart- to-heart talk with God at the beginning of each day. Many Christians depend nearly entirely upon or- ganized public worship. "Let the religious specialists do the meditating and the communing for us," they seem to say. For others there is a family altar. But even there much may glide off the individual's heart like water glides from a duck's back.
It takes time and effort to fellowship richly with God. A happy, helpful personal relationship with God can be entered into; by giving God a chance to talk to us in an unhurried reading of His Word — a reading that honors God by seeking to discover His will for the purpose of doing it, — by that kind of meditation that permits him to put our thought and feeling house into order for the day, and by praying to Him with a surrendered heart. "Enter into thy closet," that is, do it all alone.
We need to make more of our group worship ser- vices. We pray too little for them and too many of our members do not attend them regularly enough. However, it seems true that today we stand in great-
er danger of neglecting our own personal worship services. On the Sabbath day Jesus went into the .synagogue as his custom was. But who would say that this was more imj^ortant to Jesus than those early morning periods of prayer that seemed to have meant so much to Him? Do we give the same pro- portion of time and energy to these two types of services that Jesus did? If we do not and if we feel spiritually weak at the same time, the solution is evident. Every man his own i)riest! That is an opportunity not to be ignored.
"And in the morning, rising up a great while be- jore day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed."
A CHALLENGE
How often one hears and reads about the blessings that humanity will reap from wars. Even churches have repeatedly stressed the fact that this war is producing many earnest Christians, that young men and women are led to Christ through their war ex- periences. To some the statement made by Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt before the Columbia Institute of Arts and Sciences on January 3, as reported by the Associated Press, may come as somewhat of a shock. She is reported to have said: "Boys of 18 or 19 have seen death so often, they believe life is very cheap. They have learned what organized force will do and have lost their regard for human life." She further stated that the treachery of the enemy had caused American fighting men to lose their belief in "the fair and square thing," and that trustfulness was "gone from the top admiral down to the youngest private." "It is important," she added, "for all of us to make an effort to understand all these boys are going through."
In view of the fact that Mrs. Roosevelt has re- cently spent some time among the boys on the battle [ fronts, her statement may well give us reason to pause. When we try to understand the boys" she sug- gests, and we must do this, may we not forget that many of these boys were sent into this environment of death and destruction, not only with the consent, of many churches, but even with the urgency and* blessing of a righteous crusade. Let us hope that^ no Mennonite church will have the necessity of re-^ pentance when the full effects of the war become 1 fully evident.
Having just returned from the annual meeting of, the M.C.C. one cannot be thankful enough to God', that in His infinite wisdom and benevolence. He has opened avenues of service and sacrifice to our church where the Christian spirit of love and mercy can still find effective expression. May this spirit not only be kept alive, but may it be enriched and deep- ened for a still greater witness to the power of a Christ-given love. Should our church fail at such a crucial moment, it might indeed be said that oui martyr forefathers had largely died in vain. But judging from the support given to our constructive program by the many churches, they have not die in vain. May we hand on that glorious heritage!
— ^7. W. Bauma
4f
THE MENNONITE
Page Three
Sunday in a Country Church
By Myrtle Wasser
As the dawn breaks upon a warm Sabbath morn- ; in summer in southeastern Pennsylvania, it re- lls a red brick church with white shutters located the country. Tall trees with spreading branches d green leaves, birds with their many songs, and Id flowers give to the church the surroundings which ! evidence of the handiwork of God. People in cars begin to arrive. They come in fam- ;s from the baby to the grandparent and remain both services. Very few families live near the jrch. Previous to entering the church people greet •Ji other in a friendly manner.
Having been built in 1849, this simple church build- i; of one story today stands in its original with the jieption of some changes in the inside of the church. Lhas served as a place of worship for nearly a cen- y. An inscription under the eave of the church tes that it was formerly known as the "Mennonite ;iety_ of Deep Run and Plumstead." The present .tor is the sixth to serve the congregation, and he vows the long term of service by the late Rev. Allen Fretz.
\bout 200 members including farmers, school teach- , commission men, and factory workers, comprise
membership of the chuirch. Approximately twenty erent communities are represented, and some fam- ; must travel a distance of fifteen miles to attend
services. Although at present no one lives within king distance, at one time the members did live r the church.
I brief devotional period, consisting of a hymn and yer, opens the Sunday school. The adult and ng people's classes, which make the main portion he church building a scene of buzzing activity dur- the Sunday school hour, are large and held close ;_ther. Listening, one can hear the small children ;mg from a room in the rear of the church. One wo of the children's classes gather under the trees, i there in God's outdoor world the pupils and their her together discover new truths about r Heavenly Father.
receded by a piano prelude, the call to ship marks the beginning of the worship ice, which is informal and simple in nature, average attendance at the worship service SO people. Frequently, special music from church or neighboring churches is a part of service. The pastor's sermon may be about response to Christ or one of a series on onal problems, but it always challenges the lie to an intimate companionship with God. 1 during the worship service the birds can eard adding their songs of praise. After benediction and doxology the pastor greets •eople at the door.
nday morning at Deep Run is a busy
inis o75wrnt3'.l'^ '^^t^ ^r""^'' Meetingr-house of the Deep Run Mennonite Church, of mgs ot church organizations after the ser- which RusseU L. Mast is pastor.
vice, such as the Women's Missionary Society, pro- gram committees, or Sunday School classes because it is the only time people are together to carry on such activities. A friendly spirit exists among the members of the congregation, and those who are not at any special meeting engage in conversation. Pennsylvania German is commonly used in speaking. Activity also exists outside where the children play games.
About an hour after the worship service the last car usually leaves the church grounds. The church with its closed shutters remains until again a week hence people will seek strength and fellowship within its walls. Occasionally, families bring their lunch to church and in the afternoon visit friends in the com- munity.
On one particular Sunday all agreed- to bring their own lunch to church and spend the afternoon to- gether on the church grounds. Everyone ate on a long table which was set under the trees. The after- noon provided something for young and old. While the children and young people had a grand time playing together, the adults discussed various sub- jects and problems. At the close of the afternoon a common feeling existed that the fellowship together had been of real value. It had provided a fine time socially, but also people had been drawn closer to each other and to God.
This church and its people are only a part of the world-wide fellowship in Christ.
SAVED?
"In China they don't ask a man whether he is saved— they ask his neighbors." This quotation from a former missionary to China (Mennonite Brethren) suggests that deeds often reveal the heart of a man much more accurately than do words, especially when spoken of self.
I
Page r'our
FOREIGN MISSIONS
p. H. RICHERT, Secretary
Li':ri i':R i rom mrs. j. r. duerksen
Jagdishpur, Via Raipur, CP., India July 30, 1943
Dear Rev. Richert:
We come to you with greetings in the name of Him who sendeth rain and causeth grass to grow m the fields and food for mankind. We are in the begmnmg of our rainy season and it is truly beautiful in this area. Everywhere we are surrounded by the green of trees, grass, and growing crops. Just this week the representative of the British and Foreign Bible So- ciety was here at our station and he spoke repeatedly of how beautiful things were here. So far crop pro- spects are good.
I have been trying an interesting experiment for about a month and feel it is so valuable that I want to repeat it some time later. I had asked for 150 rupees in the budget to use for women's work and since it was granted I went forward with plans. There are so many girls in the district who have not had the opportunity of going to school. I felt it would be helpful for these girls to come here for a month for special instruction. Only ten girls came in— all illiter- ate—and of such families that had been Christians for only two or three years.
Yesterday afternoon the evangelists were in for some work and in the afternoon they visited our school. They were amazed to see how much the girls had learned to read in the simple readers that have been prepared for teaching adults to read. I believe that in three months they would be able to read in the New Testament if they had one in large .print. The evangelists have promised to try to continue the work when the giris go home. They sang a number of songs that they have learned from mernory, recited verses, and gave answers to Bible stories. It will cost me about fifty rupees to have these giris here for this time, so I will have some money left to repeat the experiment. And I hope to let these giris come back for more work before too long. One sees so many things that could be done that one would like to have more hands and heads. But I suppose the best thing I could do would be to train others to carry on. I have a young girl of seventeen as a helper and also an older woman who knows the village dialect well to help with the Bible teaching.
Mr. Duerksen continues his district work and would have many interesting little stories if he had more time for writing and was not so hesitant about talking about himself and his work.
The Lord willing, we expect to go to the hills in a -^veek from now. We would not especially feel the need of a hill leave this year if it were only because of the heat because the summer was not too hot. But we feel we must have the time with our children as
JNONITE January
they face some of their problems. Going late in t. season also reduces the rent bill for we can get t house at half of what it costs in the hot season. T Lord has been very good to us in the matter of fi ances so that inspite of higher bills from school, sj: cial gifts and the extra allowed by the mission boa make it possible to pay as we go. Praise His dc name.
In His Service,
(Mrs. J. R.) Christena H. Duerb
WORDS OF FAREWELL
Dear friends of the homeland:
As we leave for another term in India we wi to thank you for your love and hospitality, for y( prayers with which you have promised to accompz us, and for your testimony that you believe in message of Jesus the Savior which is being taken the far ends of the earth.
It is well for us to remember that spiritual thii belong to those which must come first even in midst of war. Therefore missionary work can be suspended for the duration.
It will be better to publish the itinerary of journey later. We are assured of your intercess in any case. May all our churches grow in gi and strength and may they keep the faith.
Yours in Christ Jesus, our Lord
F. J. and Anna Is Telegram Received The following telegram was received at Gen Conference Headquarters recently, "Safely Arri Departure Unknown. Signed Isaac and Schrag." is thought that the telegram was sent from Bu( Aires.
RELIEF NOTES
Three Doctors Needed Immediately
The Mennonite Central Committee needs three doc immediately for its relief program. One is needed 1 India, one for China and another for Puerto Rico, i doctor interested in relief work in any of these s;« should contact ajt once C. L. Graber, Director of Ri ( M.C.C. Akron, Pa. Any one knowing of a doctor '1 might be interested should send us his name and « dress. There is a great need for medical help in te areas and we are praying that some of our doctors w: willing to serve in behalf of these needy people.
— C. L. Gia
Farewell Services for Relief Workers ,
Sunday afternoon, January 2, farewell services held for four outgoing relief workers. Glen Millc Goshen, Indiana, who is leaving for a year's se in England expressed his concern for the work oJ church in our times. Sara Histand of Doylestown, who has been appointed to assist in the hospital in Paraguay, and who, upon arrival in Ascunsion become Mrs. Vernon Schmidt, spoke of her intere the work. Mr. and Mrs. Willard Smith of Go Indiana, are also appointed for Paraguay where Br Smith will be director of M.C.C. interests for a i of two years. Brother Smth spoke of his desire relief work ever since World War I. Mrs. Smith sister to C. L. and J. D. Graber who are also w( in the interests of M.C.C.
M4
THE MENNONITE
Page Five
News Notes from Sam J. Goering
(The following quotations are excerpts from a card id a letter written by Sam Goering.)
In a card from Champa, India, written October 30, rother Goering tells of living conditions in China as jscribed to him by a missionary from there: "Living tnditions are very high there (China). A missionary Id me he was offered for his bicycle thirty thousand hinese dollars which at the present exchange is a lousand dollars in our money. He says a shirt sells r a thousand and a good bath towel for five hun- •ed."
While in Calcutta Bro. Goering met Bishop Chen, ho baptized the Generalissimo Chiang Kai Chek and )w recently the son of the Generalissimo.
In a letter written from Kutsing, Yunnan, China, on ovember 11, 1943, he states:
"We left Calcutta on November 8 . . . arrived at unming at 8:30 p.m. We had a very fine trip )y air). We crossed the "hump" in the evening, icause it was clear we could fly much lower and I which Hugh Stanley came over everybody was iiry sick, and he told me that he passed out for at ast thirty-five minutes. Hugh is the one boy of e China unit that came through. We understand that ob Kreider and the rest are on their way back now. "They finally quartered us at the Y.M.C.A. in the A.U. office, where they board bunks. At first the lards seemed so hard I thought my bones just would it be able to take it. But this is the kind of life we ,ve ahead of us, and we may as well get used to it. id really it is surprising how one can take it. We read our few blankets (two light cotton blankets )m India) that we could bring in by air out on e board — say our prayers and go to sleep — and sleep id that we have a place. For the nights that have en cool the woolen underwear came in handy. I :ar mine at night instead of day. When I get time want to sew the blankets I have into a kind of leping bag. I suppose you feel that it is odd that : don't buy stuff, but things are so high priced that e gets only the things that one just can't do with-
out. For example, there were plenty rickshas in Kunming but Joe and I walked everywhere we went just because we felt that we could not spend the money ricksha men asked to take us . . . Quite dif- ferent from the way things used to be when we lived at Kaichow. Strange as it may seem there are plenty supplies in the stores and food on the market in Kunming . . ."
"They (Friends relief organization) buy and eat the things that do not cost so much and rejoice when they get things that they have been doing without. For instance, this morning they had small oranges for breakfast — one for each and when the one in charge of the dining hall was congratulated for get- ting them, he remarked that they were a gift from the British minister (to China)."
"This was a pleasant stop on our way to Chung- ching. We came here ... on the back of a loaded F.A.U. truck, and we are going on from here in a British Motor Convoy. Our next stop will be Kwei Yang and then Chungching."
Cable From China Another cable has been received from the China Commissioners, S. J. Goering and J. D. Graber. This one was sent from Loyang, a city near the Yellow River in the province of Honan. Chengchow, referred to in the telegram, is near Loyang and near the line of battle. Japanese control the northern bank of the Yellow River in this area but have never been able to hold for any length of time a position on the guerilla-held southern bank.
. . . AWAITING SANCTION OF USE SOUTH- ERN BAPTIST HOSPITAL CHENGCHOW. HO- NAN FAMINE HAS EMERGENCY RELIEF WELL ORGANIZED. NEED IS REHABILITA- TION RECONSTRUCTION ESPECIALLY AFTER INVASION RETREAT. SPEED NOT MOST IM- PORTANT ELEMENT. CONSIDER ESSENTIAL GOERING RETURN IMMEDIATELY REPORT BEFORE UNIT DEPARTS. GRABER PROCEED BENGAL- AWAITING INDIA WORKERS. . .
Greetings to the Conference
From H. J. and Maria Brown
North Newton, Kansas January 8, 1944
eetings !
We praise God with you, that we are back once ire in our home country. The dear Lord has heard ur prayers and brought us into the land of freedom d peace. If it had not been the Lord; we would .g ago have perished. His loving kindness hais ieemed us out of the hands of the enemy. It is nderful, oh, so wonderful! The Lord has done a at thing. Let us praise His holy name! Later will be glad to have an opportunity to tell you re about it. We shall also take time to publish ne of our experiences. But in the meantime we It to remind you, that we still have missionary
co-workers now in concentration camps, both in China and in the Philippine Islands. For these we must continue to pray for sustaining grace, and if it so be God's will, liberation. Secondly, we have thousands of Chinese Christians, that, although they are not in concentration camps, are nevertheless in great distress. Many of them are suffering far more than the mis- sionaries. Some have been arrested and often faced death, even when not in jail. There are so many things here at home that claim our prayer life, but let us continue to share sympathy and intercession with the Christians in China. They are looking ud to the mother church with a pleading voice. Prayer changes things, and prayer will bring relief to them. (Continued on page 11)
rage Six
THE MENNONITE
MY NEIGHBOR AND'J
By Earl Salzman
January
/. Introduction: The Laymen's Missionary Move- iiicnl is sponsored l)y a group of laymen who claim that no one can he a follower of Christ and then side s(cp his responsibility to either carry or send the gospel of (^hrist to all the world. I'br a group of laymen to be inspired by such a conviction every minister should be indeed grateful. When the plan of God for world redemption is considered, it is very evident that Christ's mission for the world can not be fulfilled except through His own followers. This lays an inescapable task on every Christian man. //. "My Neighbor and I." Who are our neighbors today? If to live close together physically means being neighbors, then we have many neighbors today. We live much closer today than our fathers did. Folks live in villages and cities the like of which they never dreamed. However, to live in an apartment often means just exactly that, to live apart. Old men die and babies are borii within five hundred feet of us, and we don't even know it unless we read the birth and death columns very closely.
The old community. In the old days a birth was a community affair. When a baby was bom, the neighbors came in; they had to be there or the event wouldn't come off right. If the death angel came, again the neighbors came in. They notified the friends, cooked the meals, dug the grave, sang at the service, carried the body out to its final resting place. The neighbors helped to carry that whole burden of bereavement. If it was harvest time, apple butter cooking, or butchering, again the neigh- bors all turned out to help, and what a wonderful blending of joy and laughter with all the sweat and toil. Aside from Amish communities this is all gone now.
Today's community. Today babies are bom m a hospital, very scientifically and almost painlessly, while father walks up and down the corridor wonder- ing how things are going. Today when death comes, the funeral director takes charge. He does his part so efficiently and there is nothing overlooked. Those who have had need of him remember him with grati- tude. These things have their advantage, but isn't there something lacking? Being neighbors today means physical proximity, nothing more.
III. Jesm' community. When Jesus talked about neighbors, he was not thinking about this tame, in- sipid, lifeless something that passes today for the reality. He was thinking about that life-giving bond that holds people together in a life and death struggle. He knew the joy and blessing of having neighbors and being one, and the sorry plight one was in who had none. Jesus also lived at a time when certain folks did not neighbor with certain other folks. Jews and Samaritans, Romans and Greeks had no dealing Avith one another. These folks didn't neighbor with one another. It was because of this situation that Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan" Luke
id: 2 5-,^ 7. This story is a picture of true neighbc line-ss. According to Jesus neighborliness means response to human need regardless of race, or cree or the cost.
IV. Today all the nations are our neighbors. sixty hours one can be from the Los Angeles air])r to the farthermo.st part of the earth. Today we c feed a starving child in Greece, we can lift an Afric native out of his ignorance, just as easy as the Go, Samaritan lifted the wounded traveler out of the di to the saddle and carried him to a place of heali and help. The world's need is just as near to us that. If we neglect our duty at this point our cc' duct will be just as heartless as the Priest and Lev who passed by on the other side. When will learn that the teachings of Jesus are not mer* idealistic but are the inescapable laws of life. It indeed gratifying that many Christian laymen i, beginning to see this.
V. Do we want to be neighbors? Does it m(\ any difference if Japan has Christianity or not? 1 them alone we said. They have Shinto for th religion and that binds them together for life a death. Why bother them with Christianity. / yourself that question now. If they had Christ s Christ truly had them, they would not now _ - slaughtering our boys in the islands of the Paci If we as a nation had spent a fraction of the ene: and money to take them Christ and teach them ]i way of life as we are now spending in the war effc this terrible thing wouldn't be happening that is ( by day unfolding before our very eyes. Christ ;( His way of life is the only hope of the world. 1 must help make the world Christian or we will ci tinue to blow up our wealth with gun powder, sr( our ships to the bottom of the ocean, rear our si to be slain on successive battle fields, rear pur daui ters to be denied husbands, a home and a rights be loved. It is Christianity or nothing.
VI. Conclusion: Our value to the world will bt: proportion as we are Christian neighbors. It i. _ our task to Americanize the world, much as we 1/ our own country. There are some things in Ame ; that aren't worth sharing. Our task is to Christiais the world, and just as the Grace of our Lord J<J Christ became our grateful experience we must sit him with all men, women, and children everywht
ONE ISSUE A MONTH TO BE SMALLER The next Mennonite will not be up to its regular z in number of pages. It may be necessary that e>ry| month we make one Mennonite smaller than R j other three or four isgues. However, the remaisnj issues will contain as many pages as heretolrf This step is taken in compliance with governme;a measures to control the paper supply. We repeat is week's statement that by using different type;!? hope to give our readers practically the same amdi of reading matter as before. — rw.
1944
THE MENNONITE
Page Seven
MENNONITES and RURAL LIFE
By J. Winfield Frefcz
GOVERNMENT STATISTICS OF MENNO- NITE BODIES
Every ten years the Federal Government talies a census of religious bodies. The last such census was taken in 1936. Separate analysis can be secured for each denomination from the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Washington, D. C. The consolidated report on Mennonites costs ten cents. In it are seven tables showing: i. Summary of statistics for churches in urban and rural territory, 1936; 2. Comparative summary by decades from 1906 to 1936. 3. The num- ber and membership of churches in urban and rural territory, membership by sex, and Sunday schools by states, 1936; 4. Number and membership of churches, 1906 to 1936; 5. Value of churches and parsonages and amount of church debt by states, 1936; 6. Church expenditures by states, 1936; 7. Number and mem- bership of churches, value and debt on church edi- fices, expenditures, and Sunday schools by conferences, 1936. Here are a few interesting summary facts: Denomination Mem. Churches No. Rural % Rural
Old Mennonite
General Conference
Old Order Amish
Mennonite Br. in Christ
Mennonite Brethren
Central Conference
Conservative Amish
Ch. of God in Christ Menn. Old Order Mennonite Defenseless Mennonite Krimmer Menn-Breuder Gem Evang. Menn. Br. in Christ Reformed Menn. Church Hutterian Brethren, Menn. Unaffiliated Mennonites Mennonite Kleine Gemeinde Stauffer Mennonites
46,301
26,535 9,887 7,841
7,595 3,434 2,538 2,024 1,822 1,432 1,285 1,184 1,044 501 480
27s 161
342 142
ICQ 112
55 26 20 20 20 12 12 10 27 6
5 2
289 112
95 68 46 20
19 18
17 II 10
6 22
6
5 2
913 747
82 79 95 61
84 77 95 90
85 92
83 60 81 100 100 100 100 82
perhaps have found out that he had not quite ar- rived in heaven. The parents wore so taken up with that telegram that they circulated it among their friends and i'cllow missionaries. For quite a lew of us it caused a little sober thinl<ing. Were we in the opposite place from where that boy thought he was? After further reflection the greatest majority of us do not think so. India goes through a terrific strug- gle in this transition period; and many may be caught and ground up in the wheels of destiny. Yet to be in India in a time like this seems to be a spec- ial challenge and opportunity. The Christian church and all others need guidance.
HOME MISSIONS
A. J. Neuenschwander, Secretary
New Worker in Portland Mission
^ 114,337
Growth by Churches and Members by Decades
1906 1916 1Q26 igj6
Total Number of Menn.
Churches 604 835 826 913
Number of Members 54798 79363 87164 114339
Average Size of Church 90 94 106 125
"I Am In Heaven, Where Are You?"
Last July the eood ship Brazil landed . in New iTork harbor with its precious cargo of 470 mission- aries and children. As soon as these passengers were m port one of the boys who had finished high school here m India and was sent home by his parents sent to his parents here in India this telegram- "I am m heaven, where are you?" After the long and hazardous journey the younR man thought he had landed m heaven. By now (November, 1942) he will
For the past three months Rev. and Mrs. Herman Wiebe, have been serving as leaders in the Alberta Mennonite Church. They live in the Workers' Home,. 5215 N. E. 23rd Avenue, Portland. Rev. Wiebe comes, from the Mennonite Brethren Church. He has been: associated with General Conference work, having lived: in the Dallas, Oregon, section for some time. He was bom in Kansas and attended the Bible Institute- as Los Angeles and also at Moody. While in Port- land, he intends to attend college and get a degree in connection with his church work. According to the last report the attendance is increasing in worship services morning and evening and the other auxiliaries. Renovation at Memorial Church, Altoona During the summer months the church roof was repaired. Some painting was also done in the Sun- day School rooms. It has been several years since any painting was done in the auditorium. After care- ful investigation it was found that to install a non- conducting fibre board ceiling would cost little more than painting; so it was decided to make the im- provement which will need no painting.
The members and friends in the church responded nobly and donated and subscribed almost a hundred dollars toward this improvement. Rev. Delbert Welty who follows the Master in his labors being a carpenter as well as in preaching, is installing the new ceiling.
Rev. Arnold A. Fast, Toronto, Married On Wednesday, December 22, the marriage of Rev. Arnold A. Fast and Miss Adeline Becker, was solem- nized at the Evangelical Mennonite Brethren Church, Marion, South Dakota, just a few days before Miss Becker completed her course at Moody Bible Insti- tute. After January 9, they will be at home at their new home, 15 Laws Street, Toronto, Ontario. Hearty congratulations !
_ At a meeting some time ago .the Toronto Menno- nite group gathered and elected a council to work with their minister. The congregation has not been formally organized as yet, but may be in the months to come. Regular worship, Sunday School and young people's services are held. — A.J.N.
Page Eight
THE MENNONITE
January 25
DAILY DEVOTIONAL MESSAGES
/>v Ri v. Howard K
JANUARY 24- "Why uic ye so jvurjul^ how is il that ye have no jaith?" Mark 4:40
The disciples were worrying about something they could not change regardless how much they worried. Jesus will not refuse (o hel|) us, even if we come to Him only in times of storm. But if we come to Him at all times, He will help us over the storms by giving us strength to overcome them. We need not worry about these things, for this only shows a lack of faith in the goodness of the Father to do so. He will take care of us if we give ourselves to Him completely. JANUARY 25 — "But when he saw Jesus afar ojj, he rail and worshiped Him." Mark 5 : 6
The mentally sick find in Jesus and His followers healing and health. Today the C.O.'s work in dealing with the mentally sick is a great step forward, for here he applies his belief in nonresistance and is find- ing that it works with "crazy men." In one hospital where the former attendants had control of the in- mates only by beating them, the number of accidents dropped 40 per cent within three months time after the C.O.'s took charge. The mentally sick still re- cognize the healing touch of the Master's followers. JANUARY 26 — " . . . and see him that was possessed with the devil ■ . . clothed and in his right mind: and they were afraid." Mark 5:15
They were afraid but of what? of sanity. We are afraid because we do not understand or we lack faith. Were we afraid of sanity? Have we become so used to insane ways of living that when the sanity of the Christian way is shown us, we are afraid to follow? Christ could not help these people because they would not let Him. The only way to rid ourselves of fear is to let the Master help us.
JANUARY 27 — . . Thou seest the multitude throng- ing Thee and Thou sayest, 'Who touched Me?' Mark 5:31
When we are sick do we rush to the Master, throng Him, seeking help? There is a great deal of differ- ence'between touching Jesus and thronging Him. The curious, adventuresome, the thrillseekers might throng Jesus seeking to see Him, to get something from Him. They were not afraid to ask for all that they could get. But the woman who came in humility and meek- ness to the Master was healed spiritually and physi- cally- 7 T „ JANUARY 28 — . . Be not afraid, only belteve.
Mark 5:36 , ,
As surely as a human being is bom, so he must sometime die. that is the way of all life. A little child telling of death used the story of Enoch. She said that Enoch and God walked each day together and one day they walked farther than usual and they were very tired. So instead of turning back, God
aid, h'oriuna, Missouri
.said to Knoch, "Come on to my house and rest there." So lOnoch rested with God. When we walk daily with the Lord then death is only our re.sting with the Lord. JANUARY 29—". . . O Woman, great is thy faith: he it unto thee even as thou wilt." Matt. 15:28
(;od is a very present help in time of trouble. Let us thank Him that we are not orphans but that we have a Father who cares. He cares even for the sparrow and not one falls to the ground without His care. As we take the first step to come to Him for help He is ever ready and willing to help us. Even in the turmoil and confusion of today, our faith may burn as brightly as this woman's and we can claim His everlasting promises.
JANUARY T)0—"My help comet h from the Lor A which made heaven and earth." Psalm 121:2
We get our help from the Lord who made all, the Ruler of all life and death. Yet even if our trouble is not large compared to the entire world, God will take time to help us in solving it. No trouble of ours is too large or too small or too personal for Him to help us with if we but ask Him. Why then, are Christians so often disturbed in mind and heart about so many things, why so much anxiety for the morrow, why this panic of fear as though the world were sinking into everlasting night? Simply, because we forget that "our help cometh from the Lord." "Speak to Him thou for He hears, and Spirit with Spirit can meet."
JANUARY 31— 'Mnd Jesus when He came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, became they were as sheep not having a shep- herd: and He began to teach them many things." Mark 6:31
Jesus wanted to rest and talk to His disciples, for His disciDles had many experiences that they wished to discuss with Him. But when Jesus saw the crowds of people He showed His own true greatness by for- getting about what He wanted to do, and He did what He saw ought to be done.
A QUESTION
God, who made the shining stars, The circling planets, the fair green earth, With friendly seasons,— jubilant spring, Bountiful summer, winter that puts tired life to rest;
God who made morning" songs and sweet night- croonings; God of the forests and silver rivers, Gardens and orchards green and golden, God of harmony, God of beauty— WHO MADE WAR?
1944
THE MENNONITE
Page Nine
Sponsored by the Young People's
Union of the General Conference
EDITOR R. Welnbrenner North Newton, Kansas
Mennonite Youth
"A United Mennonite Youth in Christ"
Y.P.U. Oi'i^'lCERS
President Ted E. Claassen Newton, Kansas Arthur Wenger Vice President Shafter, Calif.
Dorothy Dletz Secretary-Treasurer Quakertown, Pa.
Mrs. Aron E. Jantzen Describes Elephant Ride
(Written especially for the youth section of THE MENNONITE)
Last August during the rainy season the call came from Champa that a nurse was needed to attend Miss Pauls following her operation. I was the only one who was free to go. So plans were made and Miss Pauls informed that we would come. But getting out of Korba during the rains is not such an easy matter, as we well know ; so plans had to be made carefully. We knew that the road was impassable for the motor and buffalo carts. Even walking would be very difficult. So some means of transportation had to be found. Aron had the use of a horse, but that would not carry both of us. Arrangements were made to borrow a horse for me, but as the day for departure drew near it was discovered that the horse was off touring with officials and was not available. This left us perplexed indeed, for we had promised to go to Champa. We had to find some way to get there. After prayer Aron paid a visit to the palace and asked whether the Queen would loan us her elephant for the trip. She was very gracious and granted the request. We praise the Lord for this boon.
Last minute preparations were made. The elephant was due at 7 a. m., but did not appear until three hours later — a perfectly natural thing out here. An Indian bed was quickly strapped "upside-down," on the elephant's back on top of a padding of quilts. Ropes were strung around the four legs of the upturned bed to make a railing, thus protecting the rider from falling off. When all was ready, Lakshmi Prasad (the elephant) knelt for me to mount. Someone grabbed the fellow's tail and held it for me to step on while Aron assisted me in climbing "on board." Then Lakshmi slowlv arose to his feet. I had to hold on tightly to keep from tumbling off as he rose to a standing position. A few hasty good-byes were called, and we were off.
It was a beautiful day, and Lakshmi was feeling in good spirits. We were soon out of the village of Korba and headed south. We made good time and raced along at the speed of three miles per hour. Everything was green and fresh from the rains. So it was a delight to watch the landscape from
my elevated perch. The sun was warm, but I had an umbrella for shade. It had been two months since we had last been to Champa, so we welcomed the opportunity to get out to civilization once again. Since we are so cut off during the rains, this first trip out is always a thrill. The road is not passable for motor traffic until late fall, so we must use some other form_ of transportation to get out after the rains. The previous year we went out much later, so were able to use a cart for resting when tired of walking.
The Mahwat and I chatted together of many things as we ambled along. Feeling this a golden opportun- ity to speak to my driver of the Lord Jesus Christ, I turned the conversation to things spiritual. For an hour he sat quietly listening to the gospel story. He occasionally grunted and replied to a question put to see if he were following the points of the message. It turned out that he was a Moslem, but really did not
Mrs. Aron E. Jantzen writes that this picture is an excellent illustration of how she traveled to Champa. She says further, "Of course I was the only passenger as Aron went by horse, but the general setup was the same. I believe it was this same elephant who took me to Champa, tor he has been here m the service of our local queen lor about twenty years, according to the story told me by the Mahawat (driver)." The picture above was taken many years ago and shows airs. Suckau and children on Lakshmi Prasad, the elephant. However, our missionaries do not usually travel by elephant. (Editor's note: We hope other miss- ionaries will write articles sunilar to the one by Mrs. Jantzen for use in the Youth Section.)
l*;if,'e Ten
THE MENNONITE
January j.h
seem to know too much about his relif^ion, 1 tried to present a message which mij^ht be a means ol oiK-nin^ his heart to Christ, bul do not know what imjjression was made. As 1 brought my message to a close, the cooHe carrying our Umch and water jugs caught u]) with us. With his sui)i)ort sonu; Indian .songs were sung in the local Chhattisgarhi dialect. The Maha- wat seemed to enjoy these messages in song which were written by an Indian (blind) evangelist.
When a swollen stream was reached, Lakshmi care- fully probed its depths before proceeding. He was very cautious until he was sure of his footing. He gave us a bit of excitement at times as he took us under some low hanging trees. His purpose was to tear off some nice juicy limbs to munch as he jogged along. He quenched his thirst so generously at streams that the water splashed back on us. It was indeed interesting to watch his antics.
After a while a horse was sighted in the distance, and we knew that Aron was catching up with, us at last. He had stayed behind to close the bungalow and finish last minute business, knowing that he could travel much faster than we. Barpali, the half-way village, was soon reached and a halt made. The an- imals were watered and fed, while we ate a picnic lunch and rested. It felt good to walk about after the confinement of the morning. We had planned to make only a brief stop, but our servants were otherwise minded, so we did not get off again until 4 p. m. In the meantime a nice shower had passed just up the road. By the extra wait we escaped a drenching. This was God's plan for us.
The last twelve miles we made less speed as Lakshmi was tired after his long trip in spite of the rest and food. The horse was still fresh but was kept in check so we might ride together. Aron and I chatted as we rode along. As evening came on, it was evi- dent that we could not reach Champa before dark. It was decided that Aron go on ahead and ask for a car in which to meet me somewhere out on the Champa-Korba road. (The road was just passable near Champa.) Pray- ing each for the other's protection, we parted.
Clouds which had been gathering in the darkening sky now became more threatening. Lightning flashed about among the clouds. Darkness fell. A few stars blinked coyly behind "scarfs of cloud." God was near and we were not afraid. How very sorry I felt for Lak- shmi as we plodded along. He was so tired, he walked slower and slower. I did not like to have the driver beat him.
We had now covered twenty miles since morning, and we knew that we were not far from our destination. This made it easier to bear the cramps which constantly brought pain to my weary legs. Try as I would to relieve the cramps by shifting my position, the pain would not leave. Suddenly off in
distance we saw a light. It was different from the dim lights of nearby villages. We studied it. Yes, it must be the car coming for me. Excitement had to be suppressed lest it be .some other vehicle moving in the dark.
1 counted the furlong posts which seemed farther and farther apart. The light drew closer. There wa: no mistake now - it was a motor! A joyful shoul went up as the car stopped and its occupants tumbled out. I was soon off my tired beast and into the car It seemed no time at all until we were at the home of the Rev. and Mrs. Orlando Waltner, where a hot supper