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Contents Features www.canadianlutheran.ca Volume 30 Number 6 November/December 2015
Welcoming the Prince of Peace in a World of War Just in Time Restructuring Update: December 2015
6 8 10
Departments Table talk
A Promised Peace
5
Presidential Perspective
Breaking Through Our Darkness
42
News Section International News
11
National News
12
ABC District
17
Central District
21
ILC dialogue with Roman Catholics begins • Australian Lutherans thank LCC for their prayers
Restructuring process moves forward; Stahlke named consultant • LCC staff sponsor refugee family • Euthanasia Declaration •
T h e C a n a d i a n L u t h e r a n is the national publication of Lutheran Church–Canada, published in Winnipeg six times per year: January/ February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/ October, November/December under the auspices of the Board of Directors (Committee for Communication and Technology). ISSN #0383-4247 Member: Canadian Church Press Editor: Mathew Block Advertising: Iris Barta District News Layout: Marion Hollinger Subscriptions: $20/yr E-mail: bcs@lutheranchurch.ca
All material and advertising should be in the office of The Canadian Lutheran five weeks prior to publication date. Advertising rate card available upon request. The Canadian Lutheran 3074 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y2 Telephone: 204-895-3433 FAX: 204-832-3018 E-mail: communications@lutheranchurch.ca Materials published in The Canadian Lutheran, with the exception of Letters to the Editor, news reports, and advertising, receive doctrinal review and approval before publication. Contents of supplements are the responsibility of the organization purchasing the space. ©2015 Lutheran Church–Canada. Reproduction of a single article or column for parish use does not require the permission of The Canadian Lutheran. Such reproductions, however, should credit The Canadian Lutheran as the source. S c r i pt u r e t a ke n f ro m t h e H O LY B I B L E , N E W INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.
Bringing refugees to Christ • District News editor position now open • Marching for MS research • Giving thanks for a faithful servant Youth learn and laugh at annual retreat • Friends erect tribute to valued servant •Saskatoon hospital chaplaincy event
East District
25
Banana Cram • EvangelFest 2015 • Hats and Mats project • Etobicoke calls second shepherd • Lost Penny screening sold out
Mission Update
29
2015 Mission Newsletter now available
Education Report
Free Quest Course: Nazism and Religion • 2016 Pastor’s Desk Diary now available • New issue of LTR available
30
Daily Bible Reading
4 36 37 38 41
Supplement
35
Letters to the editor Classifieds Index Obituaries
M
EDIA atters
Partnering with You in HIS mission
News about Lutheran Hour Ministries from the Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada
www.LLL.ca
2015
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
Amigos en Cristo “Friends in Christ” – Nicaragua
Congregations
3
Letters to the Editor Of Women and Children
I was profoundly saddened to read the article “LCC in Numbers” (July/ August 2015). So many statistics and cold facts but no discussion about who is missing from worship and why. We Lutherans like to remind ourselves that other churches also suffer from declining membership, so it’s just a “sign of the times.” That may be true, but it might be helpful to have a frank discussion about the possible causes. The article extols the virtues of women having more children to help with declining numbers in the Lutheran church. Really? Seriously? I simply cannot believe that at this time in 2015 someone would even consider such a statement. Do you really believe there is a place in our world for that archaic, male-dominated, paternalistic attitude that defines women as child-bearers, dish washers, and sandwich makers? We encourage our sons and daughters to get a good education, to make a valuable contribution to society, and yet we close the door to the notion of equality of gifts in the Christian setting. What I appreciate about the Lutheran Church is the focus every Sunday on confession and forgiveness, our statement of faith in the creeds, the reality of salvation by grace through faith. What I cannot embrace is the second-class role assigned to women which has not changed much in the 60 years I’ve been a member. What if women were allowed an equal role which recognizes their value—their talents and gifts? May I suggest that perhaps the Church would be a better, richer one if we encouraged women to use their God-given talents in a variety of roles that complement and strengthen our families as board members, teachers, communion servers, Scripture readers, educators, advisors. Women have held these positions successfully in business, education, health, and industry since World War II. Imagine what our church body and families and communities would look like if women were allowed equal status. Connie Conrad Moose Jaw, SK
A response from the editor
Thank you so much for your comments, Ms. Conrad. The idea that having children is a primary aim of marriage is certainly a countercultural
4
one. But it is nevertheless a teaching grounded in Scripture. Genesis reminds us that the creation of humankind came with the blessing to “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” (1:28). The same book teaches us that the purpose of marriage, in addition to companionship (2:18), is also that man and wife should become “one flesh” (2:24)—an oblique reference to the intimacy of sex. And the primary purpose of sex, biologically speaking, is the conception of children. That fact is something we often forget in our own time. The advent of widely-available contraception in the 20th century made possible something never before seen in history—namely, a culture in which the act of sex could be disconnected from its procreative function. And once Western society was freed from the natural consequences of sex, people began to reinterpret sex in whatever way they wished. The free-love movement, cohabitation, and the proliferation of alternate sexual preferences are all consequences of this disconnect. Put simply, we have forgotten what sex is for. Scripture, by contrast, upholds children as a gift from God. “Children are a heritage from the LORD,” the Psalmist writes, “the fruit of the womb a reward” (127:3). And while our broken world sometimes makes bearing children impossible for certain couples—Scripture recounts many stories of those unable to bear children—in the normal course of things married couples hope to be blessed with children. So it is that the liturgy for Holy Matrimony explains that “God also established marriage for the procreation of children.” None of this is about relegating women solely to the role of “childbearers, dish washers, and sandwich makers” either. My wife, for example, is a medical doctor. She is also a mother. Of the two vocations, she tells me that “mother” is the more important and more rewarding role. Similarly, I am communications manager for Lutheran Church–Canada. I am also a father. Of the two, “father” is infinitely more important. The fact is, raising children—like conceiving children— requires both a father and a mother. That doesn’t mean, of course, that in the past (and even in the present) women haven’t been treated unequally. The sad fact is they have—even, to our
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
shame, in the church. But raising a family and pursuing other vocational interests need not be an either-or proposition. Yes, Scripture praises the vocation of woman as mother; but it also praises the married woman who takes part in work and service outside the home too (Proverbs 31:10-31). That external service includes service in the church, too. In fact, a much higher percentage of women in North America and Europe attend church than do men (as of 2008, 31% of Canadian women attended worship regularly, as opposed to just 26% of men). As men have increasingly abandoned church, it is women who have continued to serve it faithfully. It shouldn’t be surprising therefore to learn that women hold many important positions in Lutheran Church–Canada. Just a year ago we devoted an entire issue of The Canadian Lutheran (Sep-Oct 2014) to highlighting the important roles women play in the church, and we regularly feature female writers. Women vote and hold various offices in our congregations, and take part in district and national conventions. Women make up the vast majority (71%) of deacons in LCC. One of our two major essayists at the 2014 national convention was a woman. Women also serve on LCC’s Board of Directors, on various synodical and district commissions and committees, and in the leadership of many Auxiliaries and Listed Service Organizations. Lutheran Women’s Missionary League–Canada, for example, provides a significant portion of LCC’s budget for overseas missions (from 2012-2015, they raised $421,860 for LCC missions). I agree with you that more should be done to encourage women to use their gifts more widely in the church. And we should all oppose those who would denigrate women as somehow inferior to men. But such equality need not be championed at the cost of children. God has given women (and men) a variety of unique gifts for service to the world around them, to the church, and also to their families. Accepting children as a gift from God and raising them in the faith is one important vocation to which women and men are both called, as mothers and fathers. Mathew Block Editor, The Canadian Lutheran
Table Talk
A Promised Peace by Mathew Block Editor, The Canadian Lutheran
F
or several weeks leading up to Christmas, the Church commemorates a season called Advent. The word comes from a variant of the Latin word for “to come,” and refers to the prophesied coming of Christ. Consequently, in Advent Christians do two things: we remember the waiting of the faithful for the First Coming of the Messiah—the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem two millennia ago. But we do not merely remember a past event. No, we also look forward to Christ’s Second Coming at the end of all things. The Prophet Isaiah describes well the joy the Church will feel on the Day of the Lord’s return: “It will be said on that day, ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that He might save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for Him; let us be glad and rejoice in His salvation’” (25:9). Our waiting will at last give way to glorious fulfillment, as Christ comes to be among His people in power and majesty. We shall see the King of Salvation with our own eyes and we shall rejoice. In the meantime, however, we wait. And as we wait, we face very real struggles—“trials of various kinds,” as St. James puts it (1:2). This world is broken by sin, and until Christ returns to institute a new heaven and new earth, we live with the effects of that sin. Put more poetically, it has been
said that “in the midst of life, we are in death.” I do not know what challenges you are facing this Christmas season. Perhaps you are having trouble finding work. Perhaps you are grieving the death of a loved one. Perhaps you are concerned over national and international affairs. God knows there is enough pain in this world to trouble us all. It was into just such a world that Christ came in His first advent. People struggled to make ends meet. They buried family members. They worried over international conflicts. Into this heartache and pain Christ came proclaiming Good News—news that remains good for us today in the midst of our struggles too, news of “peace on earth and goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14). God saw the suffering of sinful humankind and sent His Son to bring respite. Jesus came to be our “Prince of Peace,” as Isaiah prophesied (9:6), reconciling us to God through His death and resurrection (Romans 5:21)—a promise we shall see fulfilled visibly in the age to come. Of course, this isn’t peace as the world understands it. As St. Paul says, “The peace of God surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). And Christ Himself explains that the peace He gives is “not as the world gives” (John 14:27). No, this peace isn't what we expect—or maybe even what we want, if we're
honest. The peace of Christ doesn’t free us from the conflict around us. Nor does it make us immune to the sorrows of this world. Instead, it sustains us in the midst of those sorrows. It gives us strength to carry on when we would most like to give up. For it is through these trials that God Himself forms in us a persevering faith and hope in His Son (James 1:34). The days are indeed evil. But another day is coming—the great and awesome Day of the Lord, in which He will bring us the salvation He has already won for us. On that day at last we shall see an end to the suffering this world has long endured. “He will swallow upon this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations,” Isaiah prophesies. “He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of His people He will take away from all the earth” (25:7-8). May this promise from the Prince of Peace be your comfort this holiday season. For it was to fulfill this promise that Christ first came into the world two thousand years ago. And He will come again to bring it at last to completion. “May the peace of God, which passes all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:7
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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Peace on Earth (2012) by Andrew Davis.
Welcoming the Prince of Peace in a World of War
I
by Harold Ristau
n light of public response to recent terrorist activity in Europe and elsewhere, we see how powerful fear can be. Although “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18), our Christian walk is often characterized not by love but instead by doubt. Terrorism is the warfare of those who lack courage, integrity and the resources to significantly alter global affairs. They themselves are driven by terror. Nevertheless, terrorism works. Thugs scare us. To make matters worse, just as love bears healthy fruits, fear breeds poisonous feelings of racism, hatred, xenophobia, anger, and—worst of all—doubt in God’s promised presence with us (Luke 17:21). Terrorism makes us question our temporal identity, as citizens of a safe and non-violent country. When fear overtakes us and fosters its toxic fruits, it can also cause us to question our identity as Christians, citizens of an eternal country. It doesn’t take much to instill terror in people. The evil one is accustomed to playing on our fears and insecurities, our hopes and dreams. Death itself
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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
is the ultimate terrorist and enemy (1 Corinthians 15:26). The general perception in the Western world is that, with terrorism on the rise, the world is a worse place than in days gone by. But is there actually an increase in global violence? It’s hard to tell, since terrorism is radically different from the kinds of wars we are used to reading about. In an asymmetric war, it is never clear who and where your enemy is. Fear of the unknown—How many terrorists are there?—adds to the stress. The element of surprise only makes it worse. In the trenches, you knew when you would be attacked. Today, you never know when a strike may occur, and the targets are not usually soldiers but civilians. Moreover, as digital and social media continue to increase exponentially, a crime 6,000 km away is brought into your living room, leaving you feeling like the threat is next door. Throughout history people have often thought their generation was the worst, and the last. Nevertheless, the
threats, no matter how small, are real. Fear is real. Many people died in Paris (Lord, have mercy on us). Jesus promises that war, suffering, and national violence will be with us until the end. But He also tells us not to be afraid (Matthew 24:6). When seized with fear, our Lord speaks to us from the lectern and the pulpit with words like, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). Of course we all know that the Prince of peace is coming one day, but recognizing that He comes right now, through hungry mouths with balm for anxious hearts; through open ears with a perfect love that penetrates our terrified souls and chases away all fear, doesn’t come naturally. Despite our doubts, His Kingdom still comes. So even if things gets worse, God is with us. Even then we have a reason to rejoice (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Have you ever noticed how it is during the moments when you encounter the deepest of fears, that you most appreciate the depth of the comfort offered by the Prince of peace? It is a shockingly beautiful circle. For the deeper we look and the darker things get, the sweeter and more wonderful the presence of Christ and our identity in Him as His baptized children become. Evil around us may attempt to darken the situation, but for the Christian, it only further reinforces the brightness of God’s light. From the manger of the altar, in the barn of the church, all the terrible darkness of sin and death are overcome with glorious light. And so, the devil never wins. His strategies always backfire. We always end up on top, with more faith, not less. The birds-eye view is best when you observe the world around you from the mount of Golgotha, fastened to the cross—or rather, held in the arms of Him who was fastened there for you. From there, we discover how the process of repentance enables us to better make sense of the world around us. After all, the violence we see outside originates in human hearts like our own. Given the “right” circumstances, we are all capable of terrible things. The bombs we drop are the unedifying words we speak. The bullets we shoot are the self-centered attitudes that we treasure. A terrorism of the soul winds through our lives, families, and communities. The weeds and the wheat will remain until the final harvest, both in ourselves and in the world. Although “deweeding” is a necessary tactic (both through repentance, and, in terms of national security, through military forces), as long as the roots remain in our hearts, they will continue to be expressed in the world. Even so, we take confidence in Him who saves us from this evil. “Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death” (Hebrews 2:14-16).
Remember the disciples panicking in the storm (Luke 8:23-25)? Despite their fears and the dangerous situation around them, it didn’t change the fact that the Prince of peace sailed with them: already afloat under the shadow of the cross and the terrifying storm of Calvary, where the terrors of our souls, the heinous guilt of our sins, would be drowned in the blood bath of our Lord's baptism, forever. So it is in our storms. The terrors of hell shriek at the sight of the One who sails silently below deck, fighting for us with His tongue and Spirit. For the evil hosts, it is a lost battle. Certainly these rebels forces like to pretend that they have the upper hand. And we often believe them. Yet before the army of Christ and the kingdom of heaven, they are a weak, frightened minority, as the legitimate armies of the heavenly hosts watch over us, guard us, and assure us that we will arrive safely to our true home and country (Philippians 3:20). We are indeed refugees, awaiting our stable homeland, citizens of heaven longing for refuge, while afloat in the terrorizing sea of the world. Yet we have the ever-present certainty that our fellow citizens await us, for He has prepared for us a place with Him and among them (John 24:2). With God on our side, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)? Now fear is seldom rational. Knowing Jesus was with them didn’t soothe the frightened disciples. God has given us brains to think t h ro u g h p ro b l e m s , coupled with hearts to pray through them, but instead of seeing problems as opportunities, we interpret challenges as threats. So when we hear about the influx of thousands of refugees we certainly may have some justifiable concerns (so we pray weekly for wisdom for our leaders). But at the same time let us remember how Christ responded when the poor, hungry, and homeless came to Him seeking both physical and spiritual aid? He stretched out His arms wide in love. Welcoming the stranger may not result in more affluent voting members, but the Lord of life seems to be less concerned about that than we are. He was more concerned about dying for others than living for self. Remembering your homeland, surviving in fear in your wanderings, will help you appreciate their wanderings, those without a home or without a saviour, in prayer and with deeds of charity. “Come Lord Jesus.” And He does still come, to you and through you, with peace.
The deeper we look and the darker things get, the sweeter the presence of Christ becomes.
“As Your coming was in peace, quiet, full of gentleness, Let the same mind dwell in me which is Yours eternally.” (LSB 352:4). Rev. Dr. (Maj.) Harold Ristau is a Lutheran Church–Canada chaplain with the Canadian Armed Forces. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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Just in Time by Peggy Pedersen
O
ne feature of non-Abrahamic religions is a cyclical view of time, but the Old Testament teaches that time is linear and progressive. Indeed, the very idea of progress originates in this understanding. How can there be progress if you forever go in circles? It is the very definition of futility. The linear nature of time entails a beginning and an end. So it is that the opening sentence of Genesis tells us: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Revelation, in line with Jewish p r o p h e c y, a l s o p r e d i c t s a n “e n d times” when God will draw the creation to a close and engender a new creation. Time and the material world are mutually necessary, and change is the prime feature of both. God Himself is outside of time, outside of materiality, and outside of change. Yet, as we are told in the Scriptures, He is imminent — with us — and involved in every aspect of this universe of time. He sustains and rules over every aspect of our existence with personal supervision; every hair of your head is numbered.
In Ecclesiastes, King Solomon wrote: “To everything there is a season and a time for everything under heaven” (3:1). Hence we come to the understanding that events happen “in the fullness of time” or at the perfect time. For generations, Hebrew prophets foretold the coming Messiah promised by God in Genesis. Yet centuries passed without his appearance. Like the pagan prophet Balaam (whom God used to bless Israel) predicted, faith in the coming of a Messiah involved waiting. “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a sceptre shall rise out of Israel; it shall crush the forehead of Moab and break down all the sons of Seth” (Numbers 24:17). Historians have pointed out that in the first century B.C., many elements came together to facilitate the reception and spread of a messianic faith. Expectation was high among the Jews for the appearance of the Messiah, especially because of the oppression of the Roman Empire and the fulfillment of pre-messianic prophecies. Today, not only Christians, but the highest
When the Time had fully come, God sent His .
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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
Son
Jewish authorities, say the elements are in place for the coming of God's deliverer. In fact, the Talmud (an important Jewish religious text) puzzles over why the Messiah had not come as predicted before the destruction of the second temple: the temple and its genealogical records were supposed to verify that the Messiah's lineage was intact. The Roman Empire created a vast network of highways and transportation routes throughout the Mediterranean and beyond, resulting in a free flow of commerce, communication, ideas and people throughout the Empire. Greek was widely spoken, enabling different groups to communicate with each other. Jewish settlements were established in Spain, Rome, Turkey, Greece, North Africa, and elsewhere. People of other nations were seeking out the God of Israel, coming to the synagogues and to the Temple in Jerusalem to learn, disillusioned as they were with the petty gods of the Greeks and Romans. Mystery religions popularized the idea of a saviour-god, yet localized pagan deities had shown themselves powerless against Roman power. In the Book of Daniel, a specific period of time was predicted that would last from the command of Artaxerxes in 445 B.C. to rebuild Jerusalem until the coming of the “anointed one”, his being “cut off,” and Jerusalem’s destruction. “From the going forth of the command to restore and build Jerusalem until Messiah the prince, there shall be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublesome times.” (Daniel 9:25) This prophecy implied that the Messiah should appear by 33 A.D. Meanwhile, within Judaism, many disputatious sects had arisen. The Sadducees were in control of the Temple under the authority of the Roman government, corrupted by power; and the Pharisees were spiritual leaders, forerunners of today’s rabbis, who sought by example and teaching to raise the people to levels of holiness often only they could follow. Other groups, such as the Essenes, taught the coming of the “teacher of righteousness.” Expectations were high, with zealots seeking to establish the restored kingdom by force and multiple so-called messiahs vying for recognition. Adding to the confusion was that there were two strains of messianic belief—the first a suffering deliverer (ben Joseph) who would be killed, the second a triumphant king (ben David) who would establish an eternal kingdom. The latter idea had become far
more dominant in popular expectation, as the people chafed under Roman rule and yearned for deliverance. Whereas during the time of the first Temple formalized worship was focused on the activity of the priests, the Babylonian exile popularized local synagogues for study, hearing and preaching of the Torah, and this continued upon the return to the land and the rebuilding of the Temple, providing a platform for an itinerant preacher to gain followers outside the control of the Temple authorities. Jesus’s birth, required to be in Bethlehem to fulfill Messianic prophecy, was facilitated by the enforced census that caused Mary and Joseph to travel there for enrolment near the time of her confinement. A few years before Jesus began his preaching, the Roman government passed a law that only the Roman authorities, not the Jews, could impose capital punishment (some date it to AD 6). Crucifixion is not a Jewish mode of punishment but a Roman one; yet it was the very method foretold by the prophets for the death of the Messiah. When Jesus began his ministry, no other time had so favoured the spreading of God's message of deliverance, with the greatest opportunity of reception by the Jews, who had been prepared for the imminent coming Messiah by the preaching of John the Baptist. But it was not the deliverance they expected. It was a freeing of the soul, but not the body. For that we wait. The hand of God moves history. No promise of His fails. No prophecy will be unfulfilled. God has had a plan from the beginning. Within His plan, generations live out their lives, nations rise and fall, the years pass, sometimes in joy, sometimes in sorrow, but hope endures. Shakespeare’s Macbeth complained that life was a tale “full of sound and fury, signifying nothing” — and it seems each day creeps through recorded time, yet we wait. But we wait in faith. As with the promise to give the land of Canaan to Abraham, God said “not yet,” because the wickedness of the inhabitants wasn’t full. God in His mercy allowed time for repentance and for Israel to grow and be formed into a nation. It is so with the second coming. Jesus says no man knows the day or the hour, only the Father, but we know He will come when all is ready, at the closing of the Last Day. Expect Him soon.
The hand of God moves
History
. No promise of His fails. No prophecy will be unfulfilled.
Peggy Pedersen is a writer living in Victoria, B.C., where she is a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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Re-Forming Our Church
Restructuring Update December 2015
by William R.A. Ney
T
he Commission on Constitutional Matters and Structure (CCMS), having been given a strong mandate from the last Synodical Convention and all three District Conventions to put forward a plan to restructure Lutheran Church–Canada, has made a major move forward in that process by hiring a specialist in governance and structure: one of our own pastors, the Rev. Les Stahlke. Rev. Stahlke has had decades of experience in working with individual churches, businesses, and large church bodies in Canada and around the world in assisting them to put together a structure and governance model that will assist a church, a church body, or another organization to carry out its mandate in the most effective way possible under God’s guidance and blessing. Rev. Stahlke will be visiting immediately with many of the elected leaders in our Synod and Districts as he puts together a survey which will be vetted by the CCMS and then be made available to every pastor, deacon, and lay person in Canada who is part of our church body. A concerted effort by the Commission on Constitutional Matters and Structure will be made to receive input, ideas, and concerns from every person in Lutheran Church–Canada through this survey, which will be provided to every LCC parish in Canada. The CCMS has determined that this process, with the assistance and leadership of Rev. Stahlke, will be a truly “bottom up” and not “top down” effort. The Commission is determined to listen to all people who take the time to respond from all parts of the country. From these responses, the CCMS will develop a new structure through which congregations, pastors, and deacons of LCC can work together for the sake of the Gospel in the most effective manner possible. We are looking at taking the responses of our people, synthesizing them, identifying common themes, ideas and concerns and then—on the basis of our Lutheran Theology, which does not change—put forward a new Constitution and Bylaws for the 2017 Synodical Convention. This new structure, if adopted, will transform the way in which we govern ourselves and
work together locally, nationally, and internationally in order to carry out Christ’s Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Our goal is to come up with an organizational plan that will enable us to maximize the blessings of Word and S a c ra m e n t , a n d t h e physical blessings God provides in order for us to reach the whole world, beginning at home, with the message of His salvation for mankind through Jesus Christ alone. It is my strong belief that it was God— responding to much heart-felt prayer—who led our conventions to mandate this action at this time, given the present instability in the world, the “wars and rumours of wars” which St. John predicted in Revelation, and the world’s attacks on Christians and Christianity. More than ever we need to utilize all of God’s blessings to us individually and to Lutheran Church– Canada corporately in order to carry out the mandate given us by Christ to be His witnesses in our fallen world (Acts 1:8). Please pray for the Commission, Rev. Stahlke, our elected and appointed leaders, and for our church body that God would grant His blessings of strong faith, wisdom and love to all who lead in this massive undertaking. We boldly dare to ask for your prayers because we recognize that it is only by God’s grace and blessing that this undertaking will succeed and result in great blessings in and through our beloved Lutheran ChurchCanada.
It is my strong belief that it was God—responding to much heart-felt prayer—who led our conventions to mandate this action at this time.
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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
Rev. William R.A. Ney is Chaiman of Lutheran Church– Canada’s Commission on Constitutional Matters and Structure. For more restructuring news, see page 12.
International News www.canadianlutheran.ca
ILC dialogue with Roman Catholics begins GERMANY - Representatives of the Roman Catholic Church and the International Lutheran Council (ILC) met October 7-8 on the campus of the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Oberursel, Germany to initiate a three-year series of informal academic dialogues. Bishop Hans-Jörg Voigt, Chairman of the ILC, greeted the participants and wished them God’s blessing and good progress for their discussions. The Roman Catholic delegation includes Professor Dr. Wolfgang Thönissen (Presiding Director of the Johann-Adam-Möhler Institute for Ecumenism, Paderborn, Germany); Professor Dr. Josef Freitag (University of Erfurt, Germany); Dr. Burkhard Neumann (a Director at the Möhler Institute); Professor Dr. Grant Kaplan (St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA), and Father Dr. Augustinus Sander, OSB (Maria Laach, Germany). Representing the ILC was Lutheran Church–Canada’s own Dr. John Stephenson (Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, St. Catharines, ON, Canada), along with Professor Dr. Werner Klän (President of the Lutheran Theological Seminary, Oberursel); Professor Dr. Roland Ziegler (Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft. Wayne, IN, USA); Professor Dr. Gerson Linden (Concordia Seminary, São Leopoldo, Brazil); and Rev. Dr. Albert B. Collver (Director of Church Relations and Assistant to the President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, St. Louis, MO, USA).
Participants in the dialogue between the ILC and the Roman Catholic Church.
The way had been paved for this consultation by a three-year series of talks carried out on a national level within Germany. Because of the positive developments achieved at that time, representatives of the Johann-Adam-Möhler Institute and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Oberursel had appealed for discussions to continue on an international basis. At this initial consultation evaluations were shared from a confessional Lutheran point of view of documents already produced by the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the Roman Catholic Church. Discussions focused specifically on the documents The Eucharist (1978), The Ministry in the Church (1981), and Church and Justification (1993). In addition, Roman Catholic participants
were made aware of an ILC response to the document produced in 2014 by the Lutheran-Roman Catholic Unity Commission entitled From Conflict to Communion. This response was recently approved formally by the 25th ILC World Conference, meeting September 24-27 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Beyond findings reached in Lutheran-Catholic dialogues up to the present time, the goal of the planned discussions is to determine whether exchanges between confessional Lutherans and Catholics could lead to mutual enrichment leading to a discovery—or re-discovery—of a shared apostolic, catholic heritage. The next meeting of the dialogue commission is set for May, 2016, in either Erfurt or Paderborn.
Australian Lutherans thanks LCC for their prayers AUSTRALIA - The Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) has expressed its thanks to Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) for keeping their church in prayer in advance of their 2015 national convention. “Thank you for your willingness to do this for us as brothers and sisters in Christ,” Bishop Henderson of the LCA writes in a letter to LCC. Earlier this year, Bishop Henderson
asked LCC to pray for their national convention, held in late September and early October. The convention was considering whether to ordain women to the pastoral office, a subject that has been a matter of controversy in the LCA for several years. On October 3, the issue of female ordination came to a vote. The resolution narrowly failed to receive the 2/3 majority needed to change
the teaching of the church. “I encourage our people to continue to remember their Australian brothers and sisters in prayer,” said LCC President Robert Bugbee. “May God grant healing of division and strengthening of faith in this difficult time.” LCC and the Lutheran Church of Australia have enjoy a special formal relationship since the 1990s.
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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National News www.canadianlutheran.ca
Restructuring process moves forward; Stahlke named consultant
Rev. Dr. Les Stahlke.
WINNIPEG - Lutheran Church– Canada’s (LCC) Commission on Constitutional Matters and Structure (CCMS) met November 16 and appointed Rev. Dr. Les Stahlke of Edmonton as its consultant for the restructuring process now unfolding in LCC. D r. S t a h l ke, C E O o f GovernanceMatters, has participated in similar ventures for both secular
and church-related organizations in numerous countries. An LCC p a s t o r, S t a h l ke s e r ve d m a ny years as Executive Director of LAMP (Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots). Commenting on Dr. Stahlke’s appointment, CCMS chairman Rev. Bill Ney noted that the restructuring process is moving into high gear. “Very early in the new year, a survey will be made available to all confirmed members of LCC congregations, so that they can express their views on the changes they believe are needed in the Synod’s structure, as well as on the valuable things they want to retain,” Rev. Ney said. “In order to get input so that the survey will be well crafted and helpful, Les Stahlke will initially be in touch with Synod and District leaders across the church to learn from them the issues that require attention.” The timeline for this thorough restructuring process is short. All three District conventions voted earlier this year overwhelmingly to ask the Synod to present concrete restructuring proposals at its 2017 convention. LCC President Robert Bugbee observed that
“this is one reason the LCC Board of Directors has decided to move the 2017 convention from the usual time-slot in June to mid-October. This will give the CCMS valuable extra time to do all the necessary homework on a restructuring model. At the same time, we may well celebrate Luther’s ‘new beginnings’ of 500 years ago with some ‘new beginnings’ of our own.” To assist the CCMS with the increased workload in the coming two years, the LCC Board of Directors in early October approved the addition of three new advisory members of the Commission. They include Dr. Harold Ristau (East), Marilyn Schultz (Central), and Deacon Jennifer Frim (ABC). Continuing as regular voting CCMS members are LCC Secretary Pastor Paul Schallhorn (Sarnia, ON), attorney Gary Gilmore (Winkler, MB), Herb Doering (Winnipeg, MB), Pastor Dennis Putzman (St. Catharines, ON), and Pastor Bill Ney (Stony Plain, AB). Ongoing reports on the restructuring effort will appear in both online and print editions of The Canadian Lutheran.
Registration for 2016 National Youth Gathering now open CANADA - Registration is now open for Lutheran Church– Canada’s (LCC) 2016 National Youth Gathering (NYG), to be held July 8-12, 2016 in St. Catharines, Ontario. The 2016 NYG is only eight short months away, and the planning committee has been hard at work preparing to welcome LCC youth and leaders from across the country to worship, learn, connect, and discuss this year’s theme Living H20. “Jesus is our living water,” the organizers write, “and we want to celebrate that with an amazing weekend including a trip to one of the most amazing water features God put on this earth: Niagara Falls!” Registration for the 2016 gathering will be conducted entirely online in
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order to save on costs. Visit the gathering’s website at www.nyg. lutheranyouth.ca for registration packages, answers to frequently asked questions, contact information, presenter information, and much more. You can also keep up to date with the latest information at the gathering’s Facebook page by searching “2016 LCC National Youth Gathering.” “We are so excited to know that we are supported by not only the youth and leaders who plan to attend but also those who will be at home praying and encouraging
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
those who do attend,” organizers write. “Please feel free to contact us for any extra information you may not be able to find on the website. Stay tuned for upcoming videos and helpful tips as we approach our time together!”
National News www.canadianlutheran.ca
LCC staff join CLWR and ELCIC in sponsoring refugee family WINNIPEG - The national staff from Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC), along with Central District staff, are partnering together with the national staff of Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) to bring a Syrian refugee family to Canada. The initiative will see individual staff members pool money to support a family for a year. Earlier this fall, CLWR staff members agreed to begin collecting pledges to sponsor one person, most likely a Syrian living in Jordan, where most of CLWR’s overseas programming for Syrian refugees takes place. CLWR invited the LCC and ELCIC to get on board, making it possible to bring a whole family. Together the three organizations’ staffs will be sponsoring a family of four (parents and their two children). The paperwork to get the sponsorship moving is now underway. LCC, ELCIC, and CLWR are all headquartered in Winnipeg and that’s where they expect the family will live, so that staff members can provide emotional support and connect the family with settlement services like
language training, job training and counselling. C LW R i s a S p o n s o r s h i p Agreement Holder with the Canadian government, which allows them to facilitate private sponsorships for congregations, families and other groups, including their own. Once a family is identified, CLWR expects it will take approximately two to six months before they arrive in Winnipeg. They plan to put their expertise in refugee resettlement to use. “Each day we work to support congregations who are acting as refugee sponsors in Canada,” says Robert Granke, CLWR executive director. “My colleagues and I are excited to come together as a team and welcome a family, together with colleagues from the ELCIC and LCC. We are looking forward to identifying a family and meeting them in the coming
months.” This sponsorship is on top of the refugee sponsorships individual ELCIC and LCC congregations undertake every year across the country. LCC President Robert Bugbee reflected on the decision of the LCC staff to support refugee resettlement. “I’m deeply grateful to our friends at CLWR for inviting us to take part in this project,” President Bugbee said. “There are few better ways to come to grips with the worldwide plight of refugees than to spend concrete time with real individuals, and I believe that we ‘longtime Canadians’ will be the first to benefit when we seek to show this sort of love to others. It will be a great thing if the commitment of our national staff people to address this need encourages local congregations across the country to consider refugee sponsorship in their own communities.
Living H20 — Come thirsty, leave refreshed! You’ve seen the logo and maybe you’re wondering why we’re talking about water. Water is needed for life, and Jesus himself has promised us in John 4 to provide us with “living water.” We’ll discover what that means through our main sessions: Session 1 – Who Gives Living Water? Session 2 – Created by Living Water Session 3 – Re-created with Living Water Session 4 – Serving with Living Water Session 5 – Connected to Living Water Session 6 – Sharing Jesus through Living Water We will learn more about this living water from our main stage presenters, but we will also have the opportunity to gather in smaller groups for an H20 break where we get the chance to go a little deeper into the ideas presented on the main stage. For more information on the 2016 National Youth Gathering, visit www. nyg.lutheranyouth.ca. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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National News www.canadianlutheran.ca
Canadian physicians face challenges to Freedom of Conscience CA N A DA - M e d i c a l d o c t o r s across the country continue to face challenges to their freedom of conscience as a number of the provincial colleges which regulate medicine in Canada consider new regulations that would restrict physicians’ freedom on moral issues like abortion and euthanasia. The policies in many cases would require doctors to refer for and even, in some cases, perform procedures they feel would harm and not help their patients. Failure to comply could result in disciplinary action. “Many physicians across the country are concerned about these policies, especially in the context of the decriminalization of physician-assisted dying, which the Supreme Court of Canada set for early February 2016,” explains Dr. W. Joseph Askin, Chair of the Christian Medical and Dental Society of Canada’s (CMDSC) Freedom of Conscience Committee. “We believe that the departure from the Hippocratic standards of medicine will endanger patients and jeopardize doctor-patient trust. A physician’s conscience may be the last line of defense for a vulnerable patient, so physicians need to be free to say ‘No’ to controverted procedures.” Dr. Askin is a member of Grace Lutheran Church, a Lutheran Church–Canada congregation in Calgary. He is calling on Lutherans across the country to join the CMDS
in supporting the rights of physicians. “I am writing you to ask for your assistance in alerting Canadian Lutherans to threats to physicians’ conscience rights and enlisting their help in supporting those rights, which are vitally important for patient safety and the moral integrity of physicians.” There are a variety o f way s i n w h i c h Canadian Lutherans can defend the physicians’ conscience rights. This can include writing letters to your province’s ministry of health and college o f p hy s i c i a n s a n d surgeons, as well as the federal government. For more information and assistance in this regard, please visit the website Moral Conviction at www. moralconvictions.ca (a website sponsored by the CMDS, the Canadian Federation of Catholic Physicians’ Societies, and Canadian Physicians for Life).
You You shouldn’t shouldn’t lose lose your your job job because because of of your your morals. morals. Neither Neither should should your your doctor. doctor. Everyone Everyone has has the the right to live their right to live their lives according lives according to to their their moral moral convictions. convictions. That That means means Doctors Doctors too. too.
Learn Learn more more and and take take action action at: at: MoralConvictions.ca MoralConvictions.ca
GARY R. SCHMIDT President
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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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National News www.canadianlutheran.ca
LCC joins Catholics, Evangelicals, and others in declaration on euthanasia CANADA - Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) has signed a joint declaration on assisted suicide and euthanasia along with the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), member churches of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC), and other Canadian faith leaders. LCC is an observer member of the EFC. The Declaration comes in reaction to a February 2015 decision by the Supreme Court of Canada which decriminalized assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia, and which gave the federal government one year to propose new legislation on the issue. The signatories of the Declaration are encouraging Canada’s elected officials to develop laws that clearly protect the dignity of all human life, noting that “euthanasia and assisted suicide treat the lives of the disadvantaged, ill, disabled, or dying persons as less valuable than the lives of others.” Signatories call for expanded support for palliative care, and for the protection of health-care workers and administrators who, for reasons of conscience, “cannot accept suicide or euthanasia as a medical solution to pain and suffering.” In total, more than 30 Canadian Christian denominations have signed the Declaration, including leaders of Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Orthodox, Baptist, Evangelical, Mennonite, Alliance, Armenian, Anglican, Nazarene, Reformed, Salvation Army, Apostolic, and Pentecostal church bodies, among others. More than 20 Canadian Jewish and Muslim leaders have also joined the declaration. “Our church has long defended the sanctity of human life, from conception to natural death— positions grounded both in natural law and in the clear teachings of Scripture,” noted LCC President Robert Bugbee. “God’s Word tells us that all people are created in the image of God. That teaching grants dignity and value to all human life.” “This teaching also underlies the commandment not to commit m u r d e r, ” P r e s i d e n t B u g b e e
continued. “God grants life to all human beings, placing His image upon them and His breath of life within them. It is not for any one person to summarily choose to end someone’s life—not even their own.” Fo r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n , including the full list of signatories, visit the Declaration’s website at www.euthanasiadeclaration.ca. The declaration follows.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada: Declaration on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide Assisted suicide and euthanasia raise profound social, moral, legal, theological and philosophical questions—questions that go to the very core of our understanding of who we are, the meaning of life, and the duty of care we owe to each other. The recent Supreme Court of Canada decision has brought this issue to the forefront of public discussion and compels each of us as Canadians to reflect upon our personal and societal response to those who need our compassion and care. We, the undersigned, each from the basis of our sacred teachings and enduring traditions, affirm the sanctity of all human life, and the equal and inviolable dignity of every human being. This is an
affirmation shared by societies and cultures around the world and throughout history. Human dignity is not exclusively a religious belief, although for us it has a significant religious meaning. Furthermore, we affirm that reverence for human life is the basis and reason for our compassion, responsibility and commitment in caring for all humans, our brothers and sisters, when they are suffering and in pain. The sanctity of human life is a foundational principle of Canadian society. It has both individual and communal import: it undergirds the recognition of the equal dignity of each individual regardless of their abilities or disabilities and shapes and guides our common life together, including our legal, health care and social welfare systems. It engenders the collective promotion of life and the protection of the vulnerable. While Canadian society continues to affirm the importance o f h u m a n d i g n i t y, t h e re i s a worrisome tendency to define this subjectively and emotionally. For us, human dignity is most properly understood as the value of a person’s life before her or his Creator and within a social network of familial and societal relationships. We are convinced the only ways to help people live and die with dignity are: to ensure they are supported by love and care; to provide holistic care which includes pain control as well as psychological, spiritual and emotional support; and, to improve and increase resources in support of palliative and home care. On the basis of our respective traditions and beliefs, we insist that any action intended to end human life is morally and ethically wrong. Together, we are determined to work to alleviate human suffering in every form but never by intentionally eliminating those who suffer. Continued on page 35.
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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National News www.canadianlutheran.ca
Atlantic Canada ministry venture mostly been pastorally cared for via ATLANTIC CANADA - Earlier the internet. this year, the East District’s Board With the outreach focus of his of Directors issued a call to Rev. ministry in mind, Rev. Smith has Mark Smith to serve in the newly also begun catechesis with several created position of Atlantic Canada people who have visited worship Circuit Rider. He accepted that call services, contacted him through and was installed on July 26, 2015. various means, or been referred to Most of the Halifax congregation him by other pastors. The numbers and some from the Annapolis attending worship services in P.E.I. Valley group attended this joyhave continued to grow as people filled, hope-filled worship service. hear about this ministry that is East District President Paul Zabel now happening twice each month officiated in the Rite of Installation. on a regular basis. Rev. Milette has Chaplain David Jackson (Rev. The logo of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in also experienced growth at Good Smith’s seminary classmate and Halifax. The Latin means “We have found the Messiah” and comes from John 1:41. Shepherd, catechizing and receiving friend stationed in Halifax) served as liturgist. In less than Rev. D r. J o h n six months, Rev. Stevenson (Rev. Smith has become Smith’s friend well acclimated to and seminary the area and well professor) connected to the proclaimed people he was God’s Word of called to serve. We forgiveness, life, give thanks to God and salvation to for moving Rev. all those gathered Smith to accept there that day. the call to this Since his new adventure installation, Rev. in ministry. And Smith has gotten we ask everyone a feel for the across the synod distances involved to engage in this in ministering ministry by: to the people 1. Sending throughout the Rev. Smith contact circuit he has been information called to “ride.” He for people you has visited with know who could the members of S t . A n d r e w ’ s Members of St. Andrew’s gathered on July 26 for the Installation of Rev. Mark Smith as the East benefit from this District’s Circuit Rider for Atlantic Canada. In front from left to right are: Chaplain David Jackson, ministry. and most of the East District President Paul Zabel, Rev. Dr. John Stephenson, and Rev. Mark Smith. 2. Joining any people in the new members, starting work among of these groups for worship when you Annapolis Valley mission site. He university students, and seeing are visiting in the Atlantic Provinces. has established a regular schedule more people worshipping with 3. Coming to Him who answers for worship, visitation, and Bible them online. prayer on behalf of the Atlantic study with them. He has crossed As Rev. Smith reports about his Canada Circuit Rider Rev. Mark Smith the Confederation Bridge numerous ministry, he often mentions that and the various groups and individuals times and connected with the people someone has told him about another he has been called to serve. attending the Charlottetown mission person or family he could contact. site, establishing a regular schedule for Rev. Ron Mohr, East District Mission Encourager. Sometimes these are Lutherans who ministry there as well in cooperation have moved “out East.” Sometimes with Rev. Milette. He also has plans to A longer version of this article appears online at they are friends or family members connect in person with the people in www.canadianlutheran.ca. who are searching for a church home. Newfoundland who up to now have
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Alberta and British Columbia, Jon Teschke, editor Alberta and British Columbia, Jon Teschke, editor
Learning more about bringing Christ to refugees SURREY, B.C. - Sixty women and men of the Fraser Valley Zone accepted an invitation to Faith Lutheran, Surrey, B.C., to learn how our church is bringing Christ to refugees while serving our Lord by helping these people without a home find their true home in Christ. T h e g u e s t s p e a k e r, F i k r e Tsehai, development manager for refugee resettlement with Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) said that the first refugees cared for and settled in Canada by CLWR were from Germany 65 years ago. Today there are 60,000,000 refugees all over the world. Famine, hunger, war and displacement of people are common causes for people to flee from their homelands. Mr. Tsehai asked if we could imagine a world without refugees. As Christians we are to love our neighbours, feed the hungry, and provide for their thirst. CLWR and Lutheran World Federation are actively involved in sponsoring refugees coming to Canada and ensuring lives are improved for the better by providing clothing, food vouchers and water for those in refugee camps. Many of our LWMLC societies assist by making quilts, baby bundles, We Care kits, etc. We also can help with our donations and providing supplies from “Gifts from the Heart” brochure. But overall, prayer is the biggest assistance we can provide.
In the afternoon, Reverend G. Wilch brought a message based on 2 Timothy 1:6, “Fan the flame of God.” Flames are internal and require fuel. Motivation, zeal and energy help fuel our gifts. Since they can die down, what do we need to tend this flame? Consider our mission statement: growing in God’s Word, sharing God’s Son, serving God’s people. God never gets tired of serving us, Jesus is always there to re-ignite our passion, to fan the flame of our gifts of service. Business and a convention report from delegate, Dawn Loyie, greetings from district president, Pauline Huth, and an update on district convention plans by Valerie Lowther rounded out the day.
(l-r) Fikre Tsehai, development manager, refugee resettlement, Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR); Fikre’s wife, Senait Biadgilign, community relations, refugee resettlement CLWR
Shirley Wisdahl
Vacation Bible school
NANAIMO, B.C. - Children and volunteers from the 2015 vacation Bible school at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. THECanadian CANADIAN L UTHERAN November/December 2015 The Lutheran November/December 201517 1
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A Time of Pruning
J
esus said, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit... I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:1-2,5). Over the last months President Glenn Schaeffer and I have travelled to the circuits in the ABC District to meet with people and dialogue with them about the serious issues which confront the District and Synod in these days. Many of these meetings have ended with a devotion focused on Jesus’ words about vines and branches. By just about any measure you might use, we are enduring a time of pruning. Pruning is painful; and we have felt pain. People’s savings have been put into jeopardy. The way our church-body does its work has been called into question. Congregations are at risk of losing their church buildings. And this is just the start of the list. Deep down some of us know this pruning is deserved; words, actions and attitudes have fallen short of God’s will for His church. Most of this was not intentional. No one set out to hurt anyone, yet hurt has come. For others this time of pruning has come upon them even though they did nothing but entrust their funds to the church expecting those funds to be used to further the Lord’s work in this
world. Trust has been destroyed and the way forward is uncertain, at best. In a time of pruning, there is a strong temptation to focus all our attention on the pain this has caused and on what has been lost. While we certainly cannot ignore these things, we need also remember, the Lord never prunes simply to cause pain. He prunes so we might bear more fruit. Only the fruitful branches get pruned; the unfruitful branches are simply cut off and burned. He prunes us so we might bear more fruit and be more faithful in the work He has given us to do. Over the past year I have become much better at reading the financial statements and legal documents associated with this crisis. This can be pretty depressing reading. But I have also challenged myself to be much more faithful in my reading of God’s Word. Jesus tells us plainly that the key to coming through a time of pruning is to abide in Him. “See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand” (Deuteronomy 32:39). His Law exposes our sin and death, puts to death the Old Adam in us so that the Gospel can bring us new life again and again. He prunes us so we might bear the fruit of righteousness. It all begins with repentance. The entire life of the believer, Luther said, is to be a life of repentance. We live constantly turning from our sin and turning to the forgiveness won for us by Christ. But repentance is not just a mental or emotional action. It also involves real change. Real change must happen among us. There is a strong temptation to lash out at one another in this difficult time, but through the Word we encounter the One who already died for this mess, the One who already shed His blood to cover all our sins. By Word and Sacrament, He abides in us so that in His good time we might bear fruit again. Rev. Nolan Astley
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District Editor position now open EDMONTON - With this issue, Jon Teschke completes his service as interim editor of the ABC District News section of The Canadian Lutheran. Teschke has served in the role since the March/April 2015 issue of the magazine. “I am very thankful for the service of Jon over these past several months,” said Mathew Block, editor of The Canadian Lutheran. “He has helped to keep the important work of Alberta and British Columbia congregations at the forefront of our readers’ minds, giving us all much to pray over and to thank God for.” With his departure, the district is currently looking for a volunteer to fill this vital role. The editor is responsible, under the supervision of the ABC District, for sharing the stories of local congregations in Alberta and British Columbia as they proclaim the Good News of Christ in their own locales. To that end, the editor receives news and photo submissions from congregations and other Lutheran entities in the ABC District, edits the stories, and then submits them to The Canadian Lutheran’s editor for inclusion in upcoming issues. The district editor also seeks out news-worthy stories in the ABC District and encourages congregations to submit stories/ pictures for the magazine. Those interested in volunteering for this unpaid position are invited to contact Janice Ruff, Senior Manager of District Services at jruf@lccabc.ca. I n t h e m e a n t i m e, p l e a s e submit submissions for the ABC District News section directly to The Canadian Lutheran’s editor Mathew Block at communications@ lutheranchurch.ca.
Marching for MS research
“Dwayne’s Dudes” walked to raise money for MS research.
D RU M H E L L E R , A l t a . While members worshiped in the sanctuary of Grace Lutheran Church on Sunday, May 3, another group of members worshiped in God’s creation as they enjoyed a beautiful
ten-kilometer stroll for the MS Walk. They walked in support of friend and congregation member, Dwayne. “Dwayne’s Dudes” raised more than $1,400 for Multiple Sclerosis research.
Pastor installed at Nanaimo congregation
NANAIMO, B.C. – Rev. Fraser Coltman was installed as pastor in Nanaimo on April 12, 2015. (back, l-r) Rev. Scott Lyons, Rev. Colin Liske, Rev. Robert Willie, Rev. Al Dudiak, Phil Washiem, Rev. Tim Rumsch; (front l-r): Rev. Brian Rosnau, Rev. Fraser Coltman, Rev. Mark Smith, Rev. Erik Trovall
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Giving thanks for a faithful servant
Your mission remittances at work Jesus invites us to pray for workers to serve in the harvest fields because the harvest is ripe. When followers of Jesus respond to our prayers and enroll in our seminaries to be trained as pastors, they encounter an expensive fouryear educational program. The ABC District provides educational grants to students enrolled in fulltime church worker programs. Just recently, five seminarians received $500 each in order to assist them in their educational costs. Thank you for your partnership in preparing church workers to serve as harvesters!
Funding for outreach projects (l-r) Revs. Darren Siegle, Lester Carlson, Robert Bugbee
OLIVER, B.C. - On Reformation Sunday, October 25, Rev. Lester Carlson was recognized for 60 years of faithful service in pastoral ministry at his home congregation of St. Paul Lutheran. Rev. Carlson was surprised by the honour when his pastor, Rev. Darren Siegle, called him forward to congratulate him, to read to him a letter of recognition from District President Glenn Schaefer, and to present him with a certificate and a gift on behalf of the district. Lutheran Church–Canada President Robert Bugbee, who was guest preacher that morning at the Reformation service, also congratulated Rev. Carlson on his many years of faithful service. Rev. Carlson, moved to tears, thanked everyone for the recognition. Other retired clergy from the area were present to help celebrate over a potluck meal and a special cake following the service.
Rev. Les Carlson grew up in a farming community in Iowa. He graduated from Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Illinois in 1955. His entire ministry was in the province of British Columbia, where he was first assigned to a new mission in Port Coquitlam which soon became Hope Lutheran. In 1961 he accepted the call to Hope Lutheran in Victoria, which he served for the next 25 years. In 1986 he moved again to serve St. Paul Lutheran in Oliver until his retirement in 1992. Rev. Carlson was married to Bernice, and together they enjoyed 44 years of marriage, until she went to be with her Lord in 2004. Together they were blessed with two sons, Dan and Paul, and eight grandchildren, and seven greatgrandchildren. Rev. Darren Siegle
In need of funds for a community outreach project? You may qualify for outreach program funding. 2016 outreach program funding application forms are available on the district website at www.lccabc. ca/resources. If you have questions, please contact ABC District President Glenn Schaeffer at president@ lccabc.ca.
Visit the ABC District website at www.lccabc.ca
Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month. District Editor 7100 Ada Boulevard, Edmonton, AB T5B 4E4 phone: 780-474-0063 communications@ lutheranchurch.ca
Next deadline: January 10, 2016 4 The Canadian Lutheran November/December 2015 20 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
Central District District News Central News
Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor
Youth learn and laugh at annual retreat CHRISTOPHER LAKE, Sask. - Each year in November, youth groups from across northern Saskatchewan gather on the shore of beautiful Christopher Lake at Camp Kinasao for a weekend retreat. Youth, pastors, and leaders enjoy the opportunity to meet friends, play games, and dive into God’s Word through Bible study sessions. The theme for this year was “Confess,” which examined what Lutherans declare to be true about God. Rev. Cody Cooper and Deacon Melissa McNeil from La Ronge Lutheran Fellowship led an in-depth study of the Apostles’ Creed. Looking at Scripture and the Small Catechism, the youth learned about the creating work of God the Father, the redeeming work of Jesus Christ, and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. On Friday and Saturday evening,
group members were transported to the catacombs t o ex p e r i e n c e the compline service the way our brothers and sisters in the early church may have worshipped. With hoods up to conceal identities, the participants walked quietly through the darkness to gather by the fire and pray, recite Scripture passages, sing, and even chant (with some help from Rev. John Rapp). While warming up with some hot chocolate, the group watched the infamous “Bedroom of the Week”
video, saw some cheesy 3-D movies, and showed off their snazzy slippers, hats, and stuffed animals. Organizers encourage youth to mark their calendars and plan to attend again next November. Natalie Keith
Open house treats neighbourhood visitors some hard-working volunteers, and then transformed by more than fifty carvers. By the end of the evening, 157 adults and children visited, not counting the church members there to help. from Mount Olive Facebook page
More than 50 people carved pumpkins for the front steps to welcome visitors.
REGINA, Sask. - On the Eve of All Saints Day members at Mount Olive Lutheran Church were given the opportunity to have some fun and share their faith as Reformation Christians, welcoming people into God’s House at the congregation’s annual Reformation Open House on October 31. Prior to the event, congregation members donated candy and assembled gift bags with some Christian encouragement included, using JC Playzone resources from Lutheran Hour Ministries. Pumpkins were prepared for carving thanks to
The finished products provided a welcome entrance for trick-or-treaters.
The 201521 1 THECanadian CANADIANLutheran LUTHERAN November/December November/December 2015
Central District News News
Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor
Serving while sewing FORT QU’APPELLE, Sask. - The LWMLC society at Our Saviour Lutheran Church sponsored a pillowcase dressmaking event earlier this year. Society members were joined by other women from the congregation for a joyful day of serving the Lord while sewing. The congregation greatly blessed the group with donations of thread, sewing notions, pillowcases, and sheets. Amidst much laughter, and— perhaps more importantly—no scissor or needle mishaps, some 50 dresses were completed by the end of the event. All the dresses were sent to Canadian Lutheran World Relief for girls in Haiti.
The day’s participants pose with some of the dresses made at the event.
Ponderings from the president
A Time to Wait atience. It is much easier said than done. As someone once prayed, “Lord, I need patience—and I want it now!” As we wait in the grocery store checkout line, or crawl along in traffic, or wait our turn in the hospital’s emergency room, or count the days to our next vacation, or as children count the days when they can finally open Christmas presents, patience is a virtue that seems to be lacking in most of us. I’m not sure if it has come about because of age or just more life experiences, but patience seems to be coming easier for me. Don’t get me wrong—I can still be very impatient in many circumstances. But when the highway is closed because of an accident, my thinking is that now I’ve been presented with an opportunity simply to relax for a while. When I get to the airport early and have to “hurry up and wait” for my flight, I reason that now I can get some needed reading done. When I’m waiting in the doctor’s office, I can close my eyes and pray for myself and especially those around me who are experiencing greater health issues than I am. While I’m waiting for my vehicle to be serviced, I convince myself that this will take some time, so just sit back and read the newspaper or magazines provided. During Advent, Christians may become impatient for we are encouraged to prepare for our Lord’s second
P
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coming. But year after year has gone by without His appearing. When will He finally come to take us to our heavenly home? Some people are impatient to leave this world with all its illness and suffering and join their Saviour in the perfection of heaven. As we approach another Christmas, we hear God’s Word comforting and instructing us: “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5). While it may seem that God was slow in providing a Saviour for the world, He acted at just the right time. God sent His own Son, conceived of the Holy Spirit, yet born of a woman. He then placed Himself under the Law in order to fulfill its rigid requirements for us. God’s Son suffered the death all mankind deserved. But His perfect sacrifice and triumphant resurrection bring eternal life to all who believe in Him. If you are a person who can’t wait for Christmas to arrive, or you can’t wait for the Christmas season to be over, you can relax as Jesus’ love surrounds you. Our Lord has everything under control for our life in this world and our life with Him forever. Rev. Thomas Prachar
Central District News News
Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor
Friends erect tribute to valued servant
Sara and her brother Steve in earlier days.
To l e a r n more about S a r a ’s story, read the cover story in the Fall 2015 issue of Tapestry (the national magazine of LWML-Canada).
The cross was installed in loving memory of Sara Turnquist courtesy of some of the young people she worked with. Inset: tribute plaque.
ROBLIN, Man. - Sara Turnquist had a lifelong interest in Bible camp. She served at several camps including Jackfish Lutheran Camp i n Ro b l i n , M a n i t o b a ; Au ro ra Lutheran Bible Camp near Thunder Bay, Ontario; Lutherland at Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan; and Canadian Sunday School Mission camps at Weyburn, and Madge Lake. She served in every position possible, from dean to maintenance person to cook. After being diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, a very rare and basically untreatable auto-immune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks itself, Sara’s health deteriorated quickly. She died in November 2014 at the age of 32. Sara spent a number of summers at Jackfish Lutheran Camp, first as counselor, then as dean. Some of the young people who worked with her wanted to put a memorial for her there, so they got permission and installed a cross in September. They spent several hours reminiscing in the process of installing it.
Church workers meet at fall conferences near KENORA, Ont. - The Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario workers met October 5 to 7 at Luther Village, southeast of Kenora. Lutheran Church–Canada President Robert Bugbee was the presenter.
LUMSDEN, Sask. - Central District rostered church workers from Saskatchewan met at St. Michael’s Retreat, September 27- 29. Dr. Jeff Malinson, Associate Professor of Theology and Philosophy at Concordia University, Irvine, California presented on “False Spiritualities in the Church.”
Rev. Robert Bugbee
Dr. Jeff Malinson
The 201523 3 THECanadian CANADIANLutheran LUTHERAN November/December November/December 2015
Central District District News Central News
Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Manitoba, NW NW Ontario Ontario Elaine Elaine Stanfel, Stanfel, editor editor
LCC president at Saskatoon hospital chaplaincy event SASKATOON - Rev. Dr. Robert Bugbee, national President of Lutheran Church-Canada (LCC), was featured speaker at a special Reformation event on Sunday, November 1, at Redeemer Lutheran Church (ELCIC), hosted by the “Lutheran Ministry in Hospitals of Saskatoon” (LuthMinHos), formerly known as the “Lutheran Care Society.” The event included musical offerings, an opportunity to commit to supporting the chaplaincy effort, and greetings from various church bodies and governing entities who were Rev. Ron Bestvater (LuMinHoS Chaplain), LCC President Robert Bugbee, and ELCIC Bishop Sid Haugen. present. many Lutheran churches and to the assembly. Special music President Bugbee spoke on the people in Canada, and finished was provided by the choir of Faith theme, “Bringing the Reformation with comments on Luther’s own Lutheran Church, Saskatoon (LCC); Home,” and highlighted the “Solus commitment to ministering to the the handbell choir of Good Shepherd Christus” (Christ alone) as a needed sick and dying. Rev. Dr. Sid Haugen, L u t h e ra n C h u rc h , S a s ka t o o n emphasis in Lutheran preaching Bishop of the Saskatchewan Synod (ELCIC); and the Joy Singers of St. and personal devotion. He also of the Evangelical Lutheran Church John’s Lutheran Church, Warman focused on the need to overcome in Canada, also brought greetings (LCC). Christine Gilbertson provided the biblical illiteracy now afflicting superb piano accompaniment for the group singing. The program was followed by fellowship and refreshments in the parish hall, Chili cook-off serves up a winner provided by women of Redeemer THUNDER BAY, Ont. - Rev. Lutheran Church. Garry Heintz (Redeemer, A similar event is already being Kakabeka Falls) was voted planned for the fall of 2016. chili master and winner of the 2 nd Annual Chili Cook-off held at Aurora Visit the Central District website Lutheran Bible Camp in at www.lcccentral.ca November. The beautiful trophy will find its home for the next year in the kitchen at Redeemer. Organizers thank Send news, photos, articles Alvin Miller, Rev. Brian and announcements six weeks Fa l k e n h o l t ( C h r i s t , prior to publication month. Thunder Bay) and Rev. Tim Elaine Stanfel, district editor, Barone (Calvary, Thunder 509 Airport Road, B ay ) f o r c o n t r i b u t i n g Pembroke, ON K8A6W7 some amazing chili for 613-687-6620 everyone to enjoy, as well elaine.stanfel@gmail.com as the community for their Next deadline support.
January 10, 2016
Chili master Rev. Garry Heintz
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East District News News East District
Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia Ilene Fortin, editor Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia Ilene Fortin, editor
BananaCram combines learning and fun for confirmands BURLINGTON, Ont. - Some 24 first- and second-year confirmands g a t h e re d f o r t h e 6 t h a n n u a l BananaCram session, graciously hosted by Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, where they spent the weekend October 23-25 studying the Ten Commandments. Four cram sessions and four rounds of games organized by the East District Youth Committee kept the group busy studying God’s word and having fun. Organizers and participants extend special thanks to this year’s speakers: Revs. Paul Pollex, Aaron Astley, Kurt Lantz, and Gary Kuenzel; to Rev. Kevin Walrath for devotions and music; and to the church family at Prince of Peace for hosting the group and taking care of the meals.
The group has a silly moment during a break in cram sessions. Krysti Beckett, East District Lutheran Youth Committee Chair
Concordia Seminary hosts EvangelFest 2015 so prevalent today, to ST. CATHARINES, change the focus of our Ont. - The fields were preaching to better fit white for harvest— with the expectations of or, in the case of the our hearers, the witness Niagara region, fruits of the early church were ripe for picking— shows that proclaiming as EvangelFest was held the good news of God’s during the last weekend justifying and lifeof September. Hosted giving grace to sinners this year by Concordia is the only way to lasting Lutheran Theological success in mission work. Seminary, the annual The East District two-day conference Mission Encourager, on September 28-29 Rev. Ron Mohr, started gathered more than 80 people to hear and Keynote Speaker, Rev. Jonathan Fisk, spoke about evangelism in o f f t h e c o n f e re n c e discuss how to share Acts, what the Apostles actually said, and offered factual evidence w i t h a n e n g a g i n g of the resurrection to provide Christians with answers to naysayers. presentation on the the Gospel with an joy of mission, as it is unbelieving world. that Christ truly rose from the dead. described in the New Testament. Christianity, unlike all other Faith in Christ who conquered death Retired professor Dr William Mundt religions, is firmly rooted in historical needs to be the main point of the and Pastor Marvin Bublitz were events, including not only Christ’s Church’s witness. sectional presenters. earthly ministry, but also and With meticulously thorough yet Video recordings of the keynote especially His resurrection. Examining speaker and some of the breakout lively and engaging style, Rev. Fisk the various theories concerning the sessions are available on the East led his hearers through the sermons mystery of the empty tomb, the District’s YouTube channel. The event preached in the Acts of the Apostles. main speaker of the conference, Rev. was sponsored by the East District and The example set by the apostles Jonathan Fisk (St. John Lutheran shows that their message consistently the Department for Outreach. Church, Oakes, North Dakota) showed focused on Christ crucified and from Concordia Lutheran Theological that a mass of historically sound and resurrected. Against the temptations, Seminary enews Oct 8, 2015 rational reasons also testify to the fact CANADIAN LUTHERANNovember/December November/December 2015 TheTHE Canadian Lutheran 2015 25 1
East East District News
Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor
Windsor member a top-ranked junior golfer
Shawn Sehra takes a swing.
WINDSOR, Ont. - Shawn Sehra, a senior confirmand at First Lutheran Church, is ranked first in Canada in the 11-12 yearold age category for golfers after recently competing in the Junior Worlds in San Diego, California. Shawn will be off to Florida this December to compete in the World match play championship. Shawn and his parents and sister are members of First Lutheran Church.
Meeting summary available A summary of the latest East District Board of Directors meeting on October 7, 2015 is available for download from www. lcceast.ca (select Bulletin Board / Notices).
Rev. Gilvan de Azevedo
From the president Fear Not! And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!” It is hard for us to imagine, isn’t it—the full effect of the message of great joy that the angel shared with the shepherds. We are told that after receiving this message of the Saviour’s birth, they went with haste—that they actually “hurried off”—to find the baby Jesus. And after the shepherds had seen the baby Jesus, they “spread the word concerning what had been told them.”I cannot imagine the shepherds doing this without great joy in their hearts and a skip in their step, so to speak. During the time of our Saviour’s birth the Roman world was experiencing what was called the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), a period of time marked by external tranquility. However, the angels proclaimed to the shepherds a deeper, more lasting peace than that: a peace of mind and soul that was only made possible by the Saviour. A peace with God received by true faith in Christ as one’s Lord and Saviour from sin. A peace that is within those upon whom God’s favour rests. The same peace that our Lord Himself promised again and again to His disciples. A peace that also came with the conflict of the sword, as true peace with God also involves opposition to Satan and his work. We all have opportunities in the course of a day to make others happier. We may never know how significant the effect might be on others, simply because of the
2 The November/December 2015 26 THECanadian CANADIAN Lutheran LUTHERAN November/December 2015
positive and cheerful attitude we extend to people as we meet and greet them in the course of the day. Someone has suggested that the wonders a smile can perform are limitless. He tells how he stopped at a certain restaurant in the downtown section of a city. On the outside it looked very inauspicious, but inside the proprietor’s son beamed at him as he filled the water glass, and the waiters appeared happy that he had come in for dinner. The proprietor behind the cash register thanked him profusely for his visit asking him if everything had been all right. “The effect of this,” he said, “is a glow of friendliness all over the place.” And then he goes on to say, as though it was almost incidental, “And the food was very good, too.” If one is a Christian, one cannot help but be radiant. No matter how dark the circumstances of life may appear, there can always be a song in our heart that gives evidence to others that we are trusting in a loving Father who will never let us go, no matter what circumstances we might find ourselves in. Even if we are not prospering materially, even if circumstances beyond our control or those of our own making are being used by the devil to destroy our relationships with others and our dependence and faith in our Lord and our God, we can still know and depend upon the never failing love that God has for us! It is true that we must constantly seek to rebuild the world beginning in the communities in which we live. Likewise, it is true that we should courageously battle for social improvement that others might have better living conditions and more equal opportunities. But, even beyond these ideals we must discover the only One who can truly give us great and fear-free living! “Fear not” the angel said, “for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.” Rev. Paul Zabel
East District News News East District
Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor
What a Fall for the Berea Lutheran Hats & Mats project! GODERICH, Ont. - In the middle of September a small group began meeting Monday evenings at Berea Lutheran Church to prepare plastic milk bag strips and weave them on looms to create 3 foot by 4 foot sleeping mats. This group has grown to 19 people, generally with 12 or so on any given Monday. The group’s first goal this fall was to attend the Homeless Connect Toronto event November 8 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (formerly known as Maple Leaf Gardens). Kevin and Heather Ball attended this event on behalf of the group, taking with them 32 sleeping mats, 274 acrylic handwoven hats prepared by group members, and 79 pairs of mitts that were generously donated by a group of ladies from Goderich. The involvement in this Toronto event was an overwhelming success and plans have been already made to attend next year’s event. Of the 600 homeless people who attended, the group’s booth served 120 people before running out of products. They received many thanks and words of appreciation, from both guests and organizers. The next goal is to donate hats and mats to the homeless of London, Ontario, through the Unity Project on Dundas Street East, and through Mission Services of London. The group was asked by a member of the local Goderich Branch 109 of the Legion to donate sleeping mats and hats to homeless veterans, so members will be working on filling that need until approximately midFebruary. Once the veteran project is completed, they will begin working toward next November’s Homeless Connect Toronto event, this time with even more mats, hats, mitts, and men’s socks. This project is open to anyone in the community who would like to join. In addition to donations of milk bags from the community, students and teachers from Goderich Public School are contributing milk bags, while students and adults at Huron
Centennial Public School are now also making mats for the mission. Group members are so happy with the way that this ministry continues to grow! Heather Ball, Berea Lutheran Hats & Mats Project Coordinator
Some of the Hats and Mats volunteers gather each Monday to help the homeless with their own creations of hats, mats and mitts. The completed products are donated not just in their own community of Goderich but also in Toronto and London.
Etobicoke calls second shepherd ETOBICOKE, Ont. - Rev. Joseph Singh was installed into the office of the Holy Ministry at Our Saviour Lutheran Church on September 20. Many Toronto circuit pastors, seminary professors, district officials, instructors in the Pastors with Alternate Training program, along with many other saints attended, participated, and celebrated Rev. Singh’s ordination. Greetings from synodical President Robert Bugbee were received and read. A meal followed the service. Rev. Singh has served as an outreach worker at Our Saviour since 2008 and now takes on a new role as assistant pastor. Those fed in the body through the congregation’s food bank were also fed through the Word by his personal witness, catechesis, and preaching as a PAT (Pastors with Alternative Training) candidate. As an ordained pastor, he may now celebrate and distribute the most precious food there is: our Lord’s true body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins, and he may do so in the heart language (Hindi/Urdu) of many of those attending weekly communion services at Our Saviour. The work extends beyond Etobicoke as many who have heard the Word of God and received the Sacrament at Our Saviour travel
Clergy participating or attending the service pictured above. Those leading the English service included: Rev. Paul Zabel, officiant; Rev. Ron Mohr, liturgy; Rev. Greg Johnson, preacher (text of the sermon has been posted at www.lcceast.ca – select Bulletin Board/Notices); Rev. James Luke, Hindi/Urdu psalmody and lector; Rev. Jack Hetzel, lector; Rev. Richard French, lector, Rev. Samuel Masih, crucifer.
back and forth to India, spreading their knowledge of confessional Lutheranism abroad. Rev. Singh has also translated some of LCC’s confessional documents, as well as Portals of Prayer, into Hindi/Urdu. T h e H i n d i / U rd u s p e a k i n g community at Our Saviour looks forward to celebrating with Word and Sacrament on Christmas Day (1:00 p.m.) with a meal following. Upon request of the congregation’s membership, the church will also be holding a bilingual service on New Year’s Eve at 7:30 p.m. celebrating “The Name and Circumcision of Our Lord.” Rev. Gregory Johnson
HE CANADIAN LUTHERANNovember/December November/December 2015 TheTCanadian Lutheran 2015 27 3
East East District News
Ontario, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec, New New Brunswick, Brunswick, Nova Nova Scotia Scotia Ilene Ilene Fortin, Fortin, editor editor
Lost Penny screening sold out in Niagara Falls NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. - SOLD OUT! Many Niagara area Lutherans couldn’t get a ticket to see Lost Penny at the Niagara Integrated Film Festival on June 21, so we decided to hold our own encore screening on Tuesday, July 7 at the Seneca Queen Theatre. Approximately 200 people attended. Lost Penny, inspired by the parable of the Prodigal Son, also references the parable of the Lost Coin. As Penny goes into this imaginary upside-down world, she discovers some things about herself and her relationship with her mother and her absent father. Many Niagara area Lutherans participated as background actors or behind-the-scenes crew, including meals and transportation, locations, and singing for the soundtrack by the Niagara Area Lutheran Choir. Organizers thank all who supported the film by attending the encore performance and helping out in the various volunteer positions.
A review of Lost Penny
I went to the Lost Penny screening in Niagara Falls when visiting my grandparents in St. Catharines. When we arrived I saw that the theatre was old and fancy, and looked well taken care of, and my brothers, cousin and I explored the theatre and lobby. Soon people began to arrive, at first slowly then more and more. I was an usher and was amazed at the crowd that kept coming. My Aunt told me that it turned out to be a full house. People kept coming in and everyone seemed very happy to be there. The producer, Roberto Munoz, gave a small speech and then the lights were dimmed and the movie started. I don’t want to give any spoilers to those who haven’t seen the movie, but it was my first time to watch Lost Penny and I was enchanted. The movie has a clear sense of continuation and purpose. In some movies the story arc is not exactly clear but in Lost Penny it was. I believe that everything in the
This is the fourth feature film for Rev. Roberto and Jill Munoz of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Smithville. Jill Munoz
film is there for a reason. Afterward the producer/director, Mann Munoz, and writer of the musical score, Miq Munoz, thanked those who helped make the film. All in all I enjoyed myself and I believe everyone else there did too. Lost Penny is definitely worth watching. Lusha Palmer, Vermilion, Alta.
The Rest of the Story! by L.W. Beckley
Oh! I love the Christmas story When the news is told complete; For ‘twas the Spirit brought me Prostrate at the Saviour’s feet; And when He shall come in glory Take me to Himself, I know I shall still repeat the story That I learned so long ago.
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Visit the East District website at www.lcceastdistrict.ca Send news, photos, articles and announcements six weeks prior to publication month. Ilene Fortin, district editor East District Office 275 Lawrence Avenue, Kitchener, Ontario N2M 1Y3 E-mail: ilene@lcceast.ca Fax: 519-578-3369
Next deadline: January 16, 2016
Mission Update 2015 Mission Newsletter now available ONLINE - Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) is pleased to announce the release of its 2015 Mission Newsletter, highlighting its mission work around the world. “Our Synod’s current triennial theme is is taken from Psalm 62:5: ‘Come To Him Who Answers Prayer,’” notes Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel, LCC’s Executive for Missions and Social Ministry. “These triennial themes encourage each of us, as individual church members, congregations, families, and other entities of the church to study God’s Word, to pray, to plan, to work, and to promote outreach events as a witness to the Lord’s Kingdom. Likewise, LCC’s mission fields are regularly encouraged to use these themes to guide their work too.” This year’s newsletter highlights new mission opportunities that LCC is exploring around the world. “As we give Jesus glory, abide in His Word, and come to Him who answers prayer, the Church is strengthened and enabled to reach out to the world with the Gospel of salvation,” Dr. Neitzel explains. “This year’s Mission Newsletter showcases answers to Lutheran Church–Canada’s prayers in the form of new mission frontiers during the past two years and ongoing international mission work. The main purpose is to highlight some of the many blessings our Lord has bestowed on the various world regions where LCC is active sowing the seed of God’s Word.” Mission and social ministry successes highlighted in this year’s newsletter include music ministry, youth outreach, Bible studies, deaconess training, agricultural support, computer education, children’s feeding programs, church wo r ke r we l l n e s s , t h e o l o g i c a l education, and more. The newsletter also highlights specific prayer needs for each of the world regions where LCC is active sharing the Gospel. The Mission Newsletter is released annually, with each edition focusing on a different aspect of LCC’s missions. 2014’s newsletter explained
the history and the current status of LCC’s various mission focuses. The 2013 newsletter focused on ongoing projects in each of LCC’s missionregions, while 2012’s highlighted the work of LCC’s Listed Service Organizations and Auxiliaries. For more information on LCC’s missions, visit LutheranChurch.ca.
You can support LCC’s Missions and Social Ministry Services through online giving, or by sending donations by mail to LCC’s office in Winnipeg: Lutheran Church–Canada 3074 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y2 Canada
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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Education Report Free Quest Course: Nazism and Religion
Desk Diary available
ONLINE - Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS – Edmonton) is preparing to offer another course in its popular Quest series. Rev. Dr. John Hellwege (CLS Assistant Professor of Theology) will present on “Nazism and Religion” on the evenings of January 12, 19, 26, and February 2. “Were the Nazis Christians, atheists, or something else?” asks the course description. “How did the Christian churches in Germany respond to Hitler and his regime? This four-part Quest series explores the complex interaction between religion and the infamous Third Reich.” Dr. Hellwege has done extensive studies on what is known as the Kirchenkampf—the struggle for control of the German churches during the Nazi era. His doctoral dissertation focused on American Lutheran perceptions of Nazi Germany. Quest is a continuing education program, offering lifelong learning classes for pastors, lay leaders, and all Christians. This class is offered free to the public (though donations
C A N A D A - Concordia L u t h e r a n Theological Seminary (St. Catharines, Ontario) is again pleased to offer to the church the annual Pastor’s Desk Diary. It contains readings from the three-year and one-year lectionaries, including variants for the major Lutheran churches in Canada (Lutheran Church–Canada, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, and Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod). The original work of Thrivent Financial in the United States has been adapted to the Canadian calendar. Although the seminary can no longer offer the diary for free, the cost has been kept to $19 (plus shipping and GST) through the support of advertisers. The diary is available through lulu. ca, an online, print-on-demand service. You may order your diary, which will be shipped directly to you, by searching on lulu. ca or following this direct link: http://www.lulu.com/content/ paperback-book/lutheran-pastorsdesk-diary-2016/15517953. The base shipping cost in Canada is $5.99, but there are quantity discounts available if you can put an order together with other pastors or church workers. (It’s always worthwhile to check Lulu’s website for specials like discounts and free shipping.) The seminary ask you to please note that you must order the diary yourself. The seminary produces the diary as a service to the church and does not make a profit. As a result, the seminary’s paid staff cannot be expected to order the diary for you. If you have difficulty with online ordering, please ask for help from a family member or parishioner.
Rev. Dr. John Hellwege.
are accepted), and is available as a webcast online for those unable to attend in person. For more information, visit CLS’ website. To register for the free classes, contact Rhonda Buck at development@ concordiasem.ab.ca or call (780) 474-1468, ext. 225.
New issue of LTR available ONLINE - The new issue of the Lutheran Theological Review has just been released and is now available for download online. Volume 27 is dedicated to recently retired Lutheran Church–Canada seminary professors Rev. Drs. Edward G. Kettner and William F. Mundt. Dr. Kettner was Concordia Lutheran Seminary’s (CLS – Edmonton) longest serving professor, having served nearly three decades (1986-2014). He also served as co-editor of Lutheran Theological Review for two decades. Dr. Mundt joined the faculty of Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS – St. Catharines, Ontario) in 2000, eventually becoming Dean of Students (though his involvement with the seminary dates back to 1976). “At the retirement of these two men,” CLTS President Thomas Winger notes in the foreword to this volume, “our LCC
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seminaries m o v e palpably into a new era.” Lutheran Theological Re v i e w is a joint publication of LCC’s two seminaries. C u r re n t l y the journal is edited by CLS’ Rev. Prof. Jonathan W. Kraemer and CLTS’ President Winger. Copies are sent free of charge to every pastor in LCC, and paid subscriptions are also available, in addition to being made available online. Download Volume 27 of Lutheran Theological Review here: http://www. brocku.ca/concordiaseminary/LTR/ LTR_27.pdf.
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
M
EDIA atters
Partnering with You in HIS mission
News about Lutheran Hour Ministries from the Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada
Amigos en Cristo “Friends in Christ” – Nicaragua
W
hile most of the work of Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada takes place in our home country, we do conduct some work in Nicaragua in cooperation with Ricardo Arguello and the other staff and volunteers at Lutheran LHM Nicaragua Director, Ricardo Arguello (left) gives group of Canadian visitors a tour of the computer lab used to teach Christian lessons to students looking to improve their Hour Ministries– computer literacy at the LHM Nicaragua office in Leon. Gifts from Canadian donors Nicaragua. Their have been used to equip the lab. outreach efforts utilize in schools and prisons portion of our work, you radio, the internet, printed and talk with people in may designate your gift materials, puppets and the churches, streets and for “Amigos en Cristo– song, a computer lab, marketplaces. Nicaragua” (Friends in and personal interaction. To help support this Christ–Nicaragua). They make presentations
Qu’est-ce que Noël? used for outreach in Quebec
C
ompleted just in time for Advent 2015, Qu’estce que Noël? is the latest Project Connect booklet to be translated and printed in French. This booklet provides insights from a family going through problems and their celebration of Christmas. Using the Biblical narrative of the first Christmas it shares the message of man’s Media Matters 2015
reconciliation to God through Jesus. The booklet is also available in English as “What Is Christmas?”. “The Christmas booklets (in French) are going to be distributed in Saint Jean (Quebec) at the brand new community outreach centre set up there by one of our members for outreach to the city’s
misfortunate” writes Rev. David Somers, “specifically for Advent, Christmas, there will be meals offered, Advent calendars, and devotionals for each family, showings of the Lutheran Hour Ministries’ Christmas DVDs in French – yes we still use them – and some of the remaining Little Shepherd booklets in French will go to the children.” “We do indeed appreciate the LHM gifts that keep giving The Gift” concludes Somers.
www.LLL.ca
2015
Congregations encouraged to mark Lutheran Hour Ministries Sunday
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ongregations are being encouraged to set aside one Sunday a year to raise awareness of and pray for the outreach resources and work of the synod’s auxiliary organization, the Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries. February 6 is the ‘official’ LHM Sunday for 2016 but congregations may mark the occasion on any date that suits their schedule. “In addition to LHM Sunday materials, information about our resources and programs can be shared by individuals who serve as Ambassadors or Congregational Contacts,” says Sharon McKie, Ambassador Coordinator. To reserve LHM Sunday materials for your congregation or to find out more about serving as an Ambassador or Congregational Contact call 1-800-555-6236 or e-mail info@lll.ca. 1
Saint James congregation hosts LLL Canada AGM
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quipping, training and encouraging members of congregations as they reach out with the Good News of Jesus Christ is one of the purposes for which the Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada exists so we were pleased when Pastor James Schnarr and the members of Saint James Lutheran Church in Winnipeg opened their facilities on October 28 to host our Annual General Meeting. LLL-C President Ian Adnams conducted the business meeting after Rev. Schnarr’s opening devotion. Managing Director, Stephen Klinck gave an overview of the
past year’s work and the ministry resources available for congregations and individuals. He thanked all who had supported the ministry with financial gifts during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2015. The audited financial statements for the year showed income of $718,317 and expenses of $718,024. Klinck noted that gifts from those who had included LLL-Canada in their estate plan (bequests or life insurance) provided more than 18% of the income. The evening was an opportunity to share information about our outreach programs and resources, report on
the past year’s activities, and encourage those who financially support this work. After the formal meeting attendees visited with members of our Board of Directors while enjoying coffee and fresh baking arranged by Iris Barta.
when Linus simply recited the Christmas story from St. Luke's Gospel which includes the words: "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour who is Christ the Lord." Over the past 50 years, millions of people around the world have heard that clear proclamation from God's Word and as it celebrates its Golden Anniversary millions will no doubt hear it again. For Martin Luther, the key words as he received the Body and Blood of our Lord in the
Lord's Supper were: "Given for you" — God's gift of forgiveness and strength given to him and to us as we gather around the Table. And those words are the essence of Christmas: Given for you... the Saviour...Christ the Lord. We can share those same words with those around us: Jesus was born for you. He suffered, died and rose from the dead for you. God's gift of His Son is yours to receive. Think of the ways you can share this message. You could sign your Christmas cards or end your Christmas emails with "May God's gift at Christmas be yours"
Saint James, Winnipeg, hosted LLL Canada’s Annual General Meeting.
Director, Ed Tiefenbach (right) visits with LWML–Canada president, Iris Barta.
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A Golden Word By Ian Adnams
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ifty years ago, Lutheran cartoonist Charles M. Schultz brought his popular Peanuts comic strip characters to the small screen in "A Charlie Brown Christmas." The cartoon Christmas special had its secular holiday themes as Charlie Brown found himself depressed by the commercialization of the season. But its shining moment came
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or share on Facebook Christmas memes and messages that point to Jesus: God's gift “given for you.” And someone is sure post a YouTube link to the Christmas story as recited by Linus. Share it liberally! It will demonstrate that Christmas TV specials come and go, but the golden Word of the Lord— given for you and for your salvation—lasts forever! As the writer of Proverbs observes: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver” (Proverbs 25:11). Ian Adnams is the volunteer president of Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada.
Media Matters 2015
LLL-C directors meet with synodical representatives in Winnipeg
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he office of Lutheran Church–Canada in Winnipeg was the location for the October 28-29 meeting of the board of directors of Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada. During the meeting, the Rev. Dr. Robert Bugbee, president of synod installed the board members during staff devotions in the chapel. He also took time to meet with the board and shared information and ideas on ways LLL–Canada can serve the synod as an auxiliary organization.
Directors heard presentations by Rev. Leonardo Neitzel, executive director for mission and social ministry; Mr. Dwayne Cleave, LCC treasurer; Mr. David Friesen, one of LCC Financial Ministries’ gift planners; and Mrs. Iris Barta, president of Lutheran Women’s Missionary League– Canada. “Meeting at the synodical offices gave our directors and members of LCC’s staff an opportunity to meet each other and discuss items of mutual
interest, which should assist us as we plan our future operations,” noted Stephen Klinck, managing director of LLL-Canada.
Rev Neitzel shared insights and ideas about cooperative outreach efforts in Nicaragua
Fred Jarvis of Kelowna, BC recently completed his term of office as LLL Canada President. Stephen Klinck (left) presented Jarvis with a token of thanks for his service at the October meeting of the Board of Directors.
The Lutheran Hour on Canadian radio stations was the topic of a report from Lynn and Brian Reimer of C. Reimer Advertising in Winnipeg, who also shared insights on the opportunities for broadcasting Christian programs in Canada.
LCC President, the Rev. Robert Bugbee (right) installed the LLL-Canada Board at a special service at the Synodical office on Oct. 28. From left to right are Board members: Ronald Fischer, Stratford, ON; Keith Bohlken, Condor, AB; Ian Adnams, Richmond, BC; Ed Tiefenbach, Regina, SK; and Calvin Ulmer, Neudorf, SK. In the 2015 elections the Voting Members selected Adnams as President and reelected Fischer and Ulmer while Bohlken and Tiefenbach are completing the second year of their terms.
An ingrate’s guide to contentment
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oes that sound a bit harsh? Well, deep down we all know there is more to contentment than: a wonderful spouse and family; a showcase home; and a growing bank balance – nevertheless it is elusive. Lutheran Hour Ministries newest booklet by Rev. Dion Garrett gives insights into some key practices we can implement concerning our “Contentment”. Get a copy from your churches tract rack or by contacting Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada at 1-800-555-6236 or info@lll.ca.
Media Matters 2015
Marking the Reformation’s 500th
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he year 2017 will be the 500th anniversary of the Reformation sparked by Dr. Martin Luther. Lutheran Hour Ministries has completed the first of several items planned in conjunction with this anniversary. The booklet “A Treasure Revealed,” available in English and French, gives a brief overview of Luther and the events of the Reformation. “A Man Named Martin” is 5-part video-based study about the life and times of the reformer. Two further studies are planned, one each in 2016 and 2017. While Luther is prominent in the Reformation story, the Gospel is the real message and treasure. 3
Reaching out to fair-goers
In the districts…
with LHM materials
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sing a variety of resources from Lutheran Hour Ministries members of Lutheran Church – Canada congregations had outreach booths at several fairs and exhibitions across Canada this year. At Regina’s Queen City Exhibition, 30 volunteers from area congregations offered fair-goers Bibles and a variety of LHM booklets and the LHM Men’s Network ‘official’ Man Card. Especially popular were: the children’s booklet “The Bully” and Project Connect booklets on: Angels, Depression and Stress. Darlene Walters, a volunteer from Grace Lutheran Church, Regina noted “It gives you a wonderful feeling that you’ve touched someone – it makes this ministry all worthwhile”. Myron Becker of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, had lots of fun with the ‘Man Cards’ using it as a way to start conversations with visitors, both men and women. The 175th Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show was held October 6-12, 2015 in Simcoe, Ontario. Sixty volunteers from St. Peter’s Simcoe, Peace Tillsonburg,
Martin Theissler volunteered at the Simcoe fair booth.
Queen City Ex attendees were offered free LHM materials.
Trinity Fisherville, and Christ The King Port Rowan, annually distribute hundreds of children’s booklets, Project Connect booklets and other LHM materials. When children spin the “Question Wheel” they are asked a Bible knowledge question and are rewarded with a small prize. Attendees may enter draws for prizes. Nearly 50 people accepted an opportunity on the entry form to request information about upcoming children’s activities or a call from the nearest Lutheran congregation. Once again this year the members of the Saskatoon Zone Lutheran Laymen’s League organized an outreach booth/ display at Saskatoon Exhibition which was held August 4-9. Children’s resources and Project Connect booklets on a wide variety of topics we offered to the passersby.
Media Matters is a publication of the Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada and its Lutheran Hour Ministries. The mission of LLL Canada is to assist in the proclamation of the Gospel by creating, distributing and promoting resources through various media and equipping Christians for outreach. LLL Canada Board of Directors: President, Ian Adnams, Richmond, BC; Directors Keith Bohlken, Condor, AB; Ronald Fischer, Stratford, ON; Ed Tiefenbach, Regina, SK; and Calvin Ulmer, Neudorf, SK.
Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada, 270 Lawrence Ave. Kitchener, ON, N2M 1Y4 1-800-555-6236 www.LLL.ca
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ABC District LLL members elected Gord Schoepp of Onoway, AB as District LLL President and William (Bill) Wood of Calgary as Secretary-Treasurer at the annual general meeting held at Foothills Lutheran Church on October 16. Stephen Klinck, Managing Director of LLL Canada presented a ministry update. Left to right: Keith Bohlken, Past President; Robert (Bob) Felstead, VicePresident; Gord Schoepp, and William (Bill) Wood.
Dr. Doug Rutt Director of International Ministries for LHMUSA (left) and Rev. Michael Kuhn, missionary with Lutheran Bible Translators (right) were two of the presenters at the Outreach Conference put on by the ABC District LLL at Foothills Lutheran Church, Calgary, October 17. LCC District President Rev. Dr. Glenn Schaeffer led a Bible study and Judi Luckhardt shared her experience on mission trips with LAMP. David Hicks spoke about the Lutheran Hospital Ministries of Southern Alberta while Stephen Klinck, of LLL Canada suggested ways that Lutheran Hour Ministries can be a Partner in Outreach with individuals and congregations.
East District LLL Pastoral Advisor, Rev. John Mackey, (right) installed the East District LLL Board and officers at the conclusion of the District’s annual general meeting, November 7 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Waterloo. President Robert Wilson of Simcoe and Secretary Ron Fischer of Stratford were re-elected. Staff members Stephen Klinck and Sharon McKie gave a ministry update and LCC District President Rev. Paul Zabel expressed appreciation for and encouragement of the work of the LLL. Jan Buchner brought greetings from Ontario District LWML-Canada, and host pastor Rev. James Heinbuch led a Bible study based on the LHM Men’s Network study on Islam.
Media Matters 2015
Euthanasia declaration (cont.) Continued from page 14.
The withholding or withdrawal of burdensome treatment must be distinguished from euthanasia and assisted suicide. The intention in such cases is not to cause death but to let it occur naturally. We understand that under certain circumstances it is morally and legally acceptable for someone to refuse or stop treatment. The refusal of medical treatment, including extraordinary measures, is very different from euthanasia or assisted suicide. Euthanasia is the deliberate killing of someone, with or without that person’s consent, ostensibly in order to eliminate suffering. Assisted suicide occurs when one person aids, counsels or encourages another person to commit suicide. There is a fundamental difference between killing a person and letting her or him die of natural causes. Euthanasia and assisted suicide treat the lives of disadvantaged, ill, disabled, or dying persons as less valuable than the lives of others. Such a message does not respect the equal dignity of our vulnerable brothers and sisters. H e a l t h c a re s y s t e m s m u s t maintain a life-affirming ethos. Medical professionals are trained to restore and enhance life. They are not trained or expected to administer death. Any change in this
regard would fundamentally distort the doctor/patient relationship. Similarly, all members of society are called upon to do their utmost to protect their neighbours when their lives or safety are threatened. This basic care and concern, so fundamental to society, is evident in the continuing efforts to provide better, readily available palliative and home care. Health Canada defines palliative care as “an approach to care for people who are living with a lifethreatening illness, no matter how old they are. The focus of care is on achieving comfort and ensuring respect for the person nearing death, and maximizing quality of life for the patient, family, and loved ones, and is a societal affirmation of caring for the most vulnerable a m o n g s t u s . Pa l l i a t i v e c a r e addresses different aspects of endof-life care by: managing pain and other symptoms; providing social, psychological, cultural, emotional, spiritual and practical support; supporting caregivers; providing support for bereavement.” Assisted suicide and euthanasia are contrary to the philosophy and practice of palliative care. In light of the recent decision of the Supreme Court of Canada, we urge federal, provincial and territorial legislators to enact and uphold laws that enhance human solidarity by promoting the rights
“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13 A message from
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to life and security for all people; to make good-quality home care and palliative care accessible in all jurisdictions; and to implement regulations and policies that ensure respect for the freedom of conscience of all health-care workers and administrators who will not and cannot accept suicide or euthanasia as a medical solution to pain and suffering. Humanity’s moral strength is based on solidarity, communion and communication – particularly with those who are suffering. It is personal attention and palliative care and not assisted suicide or euthanasia that best uphold the worth of the human person. It is when we are willing to care for one another under the most dire of circumstances and at the cost of great inconvenience that human dignity and society’s fundamental goodness are best expressed and preserved.
HAVE YOUR SAY! The Canadian L u t h e r a n welcomes letters to the editor on articles published in the magazine. S e n d s u b m i s s i o n s to communications@ lutheranchurch.ca with “Letter to the editor” in the subject line. Letters to the editor may also be sent in hard copy to the following address: The Canadian Lutheran c/o Lutheran Church– Canada 3074 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y2
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2015
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Transitions
Announcements
Announcements
Rev. Harold Schoubye, candidate to Holy Cross, Winnipeg, MB. Installation: Nov. 29.
(cont.) 31 December 2015 via e-mail at twinger@brocku.ca or post to:
Rev. Paul Schallhorn, pastor, Christ, Sarnia, ON to Peace, Tillsonburg, ON. Installation: Dec. 6.
President Thomas Winger Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary 470 Glenridge Ave St. Catharines, ON L2T 4C3 Canada
(cont.) Available degrees are: Doctor of Laws (LL.D), Doctor of Letters (Litt.D.), Doctor of Divinity (D.D.). Available awards are: Faith in Life, Friend of the Seminary, Doulos Dia Iesoun. A description of the awards and degrees and the forms required for each are available at www.concordiasem. ab.ca. Desirable qualifications for each position are listed on each nomination form.
Rev. Timothy Schneider, pastor, Trinity, Golden, BC to Good Shepherd, Amherstburg, ON. Installation: TBA. Rev. Perry Hart, pastor, Waikerie, South Australia to Bethel Lutheran Church, Kitchener, ON. Installation: TBA.
Announcements Concordia Lutheran Seminary in Edmonton seeks to call a full-time faculty member specializing in the Old Testament. Candidates meriting serious consideration will be ordained pastors of Lutheran Church-Canada or one of its partner-churches who possess significant parish experience, an earned terminal degree (Th.D or Ph.D), strong teaching and administrative capabilities, a positive and pastoral personality, and a commitment to excellence in pastoral formation and service to the Church. The seminary envisions issuing a call in May 2016 for service at CLS beginning in August 2016. Nominations are sought by 31 Jan 2016. Interested candidates are invited to contact Dr. James Gimbel, President (jgimbel@ concordiasem.ab.ca). Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary in St. Catharines, Ontario will be calling a Professor of Theology to take up office in July 2016. The candidate must be an ordained pastor of Lutheran Church– Canada or a church in fellowship with her. The preferred candidate will have: a strong commitment to sound, confessional Lutheran theology; significant parish and/or mission experience; an earned doctorate; a specialty in Dogmatics or Old Testament; experience and/or understanding of the Canadian context; interdisciplinary teaching capability; research and writing competence; and a collegial personality and attitude. Interested candidates are asked to submit their curriculum vitae by...
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Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary each May at the annual Call Service has the opportunity to confer two major awards on worthy pastors or lay members of Lutheran Church–Canada. The recipient of the “Friend of the Seminary” award is nominated by the faculty or Board of Regents for making a significant contribution to the well-being of the seminary. The Delta Chi Medal, by contrast, is awarded by the seminary on behalf of the wider church. This “highest and most distinguished award” is “presented to an individual, either clergy or lay, whose life exemplifies service to Christ in his/her everyday living and vocation.” In nominating, one should consider the person’s service to the local congregation, the community, the synodical district, the church at large, church service o rg a n i z a t i o n s , a n d e d u c a t i o n a l institutions. Delta Chi refers to the initials of the Greek expression διάκονος χριστοῦ “servant of Christ”. Anyone in LCC may nominate a candidate for the Delta Chi award. No current faculty or board member i s e l i g i b l e . P l e a s e s u b m i t yo u r nomination in writing to the seminary or via e-mail to concordia@brocku.ca. The deadline for nominations is 15 January 2016.
Completed forms must be received by January 1, 2016, for consideration. Degrees and awards will be presented at the seminary’s Sacred Convocation on May 26, 2016. Contact: Prof. Jonathan Kraemer, faculty secretary Concordia Lutheran Seminary 7040 Ada Blvd. Edmonton, AB T5B 4E3 Fax 780.479.3067 Email jkraemer@concordiasem. ab.ca
Classified “Britain Experience” June 14-28th, 2016 Hosts: Rev. Norm & Ruth Miller Ph: 1-604-556-7111 Email: ruthkm@telus.net Early Booking Discounts
Movie Night! Concordia Lutheran Seminary’s faculty and Board of Regents in Edmonton invite individuals, congregations, and Boards of Lutheran Church–Canada to submit the names of persons to be considered for one of the seminary’s honorary degrees and awards. The pur pose of t hese honorar y degrees and awards is to acknowledge outstanding service to the church, the seminary, and the community.
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
Take your family’s movie nights to the next level. The Canadian Lutheran publishes regular movie reviews by Rev. Ted Giese online— more than you see in the print magazine. Visit www. canadianlutheran.ca for the latest film.
The Canadian Lutheran 2015 Index Table Talk by Mathew Block
Lord, To Whom Shall We Go? Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February The End of Hope Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April Further Up and Further In Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June Old News Vol. 30, No. 4 July/August A Promised Peace Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December
Cover Stories and features
Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February How God Really Speaks Today Rev. Dr. Phillip Cary Reading the Bible 101 Rev. Dr. William Mundt Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April Why I Prefer a Small Church Rev. Dr. Harold Ristau Sharing Jesus: The First and Highest Work of Love Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel The Martyrs’ Message Mathew Block Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June Precious in the Sight of the Lord is the Death of His Saints Rev. Rod Buck The Story Continues Peggy Pedersen
Just in Time Peggy Pedersen Restructuring Update December 2015 Rev. William Nye
International News
Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February - The most dangerous countries in the world to be a Christian - ILC Executive meets in England, plans for 2015 World Conference Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April - Conference addresses the challenges of post-Christian society Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June - LCC and LCMS coordinate on Central America missions Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October - ILC welcomes Nicaraguan church into membership - First graduating class of pastors for Mozambican Lutherans Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December - ILC dialogue with Roman Catholics begins - Australian Lutherans thank LCC for their prayers
National News
Vol. 30, No. 4 July/August The Changing Face of Canadian Missions James Morgan Lutheran Church–Canada in Numbers Mathew Block
Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February - ABC District insolvent, investors facings losses - President Bugbee releases pastoral letter on ABC District situation - Canada decriminalizes assisted suicide - LCC Pension Plan stable
Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October Martin Luther: Father of the Reformation Rev. Dr. Edward G. Kettner A Reformation Moment Mathew Block Reforming Our Church Rev. Paul Schallhorn
Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April - Update on ABC District situation - Immigration behind Francophone Lutheran growth in East District - Supreme Court decision a win for religious freedom
Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December Welcoming the Prince of Peace in a World of War Rev. Dr. Harold Ristau
Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June - LCC facing deficit budget - East District makes special gift - I n t e r i m Pa s t o r a l L e a d e r recommended for Alberta-B.C.
- Marge Lehman called to glory Vol. 30, No. 4 July/August - New Third Vice President for Lutheran Church–Canada - Nolan Astley appointed Interim Pastoral Leader for Alberta and B.C. - LWMLC plans for the future, Iris Barta reelected - ABC District office to be sold, stay of proceedings extended Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October - CCMS discusses restructuring synod - LCC indicates willingness to accept LHI - Planning for 2016 National Youth Gathering Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December - Restructuring process moves forward; Stahlke named consultant - Registration for 2016 National Youth Gathering now open - LCC staff joins CLWR and ELCIC in sponsoring refugee family - Living H20—Come thirsty, leave refreshed! - Canadian physicians face challenges to Freedom of Conscience - LCC joins Catholics, Evangelicals in declaration on euthanasia - Atlantic Canada ministry venture
Mission Update
Vol. 30, No.1 January/February - New church workers for Nicaragua - Malabar Mission Society reports outreach success in India Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April - Joy over continued growth in Cambodia - Canadian Lutherans participate in Nicaragua outreach Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June - Mission spotlight on Thailand Vol. 30, No.4 September/October - Another step forward for Nicaraguan children’s computer program
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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2015 Index (continued) Vol. 30, No.5 September/October - Nicaraguan clergy study Greek - Ian Adnams elected President of LLL-Canada Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December - 2015 Mission Newsletter now available
Education Report
Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February - CCSCF plans for 2015 conference - Seminary cooperation continues - CUCA moves to Pension/Benefit autonomy Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April - CLTS to welcome Finnish scholar for 2015-2016 - Concordia University College of Alberta suspends church work program Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June - CLTS Professor William Mundt retires - First calls for seminary graduates - DPS graduates - Vicarage placements - New name for Concordia University College of Alberta Vol. 30, No. 4 July/August - Dr. Hellwege to join faculty at Edmonton seminary - CLTS President’s new commentary on Ephesians now available Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October - New school year underway at LCC’s two seminaries - Concordia Lutheran Seminary library reopens following 2014 fire Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December - Free Quest Course: Nazism and Religion - Desk Diary available - New issue of Lutheran Theological Review available
Presidential Perspective by Robert Bugbee
In Memoriam Come to Him Who Answers Prayer Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April Remembering Mrs. Lehman and Her Many Sisters Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June Confidence in the Midst of Persecution Vol. 30, No. 4 July/August The Reformation Lived and Prayed Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October Breaking Through Our Darkness Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December
Movie Reviews by Ted Giese Into the Woods Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February Chappie Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April Avengers: Age of Ultron Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June Black Mass Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October
In Memoriam
Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December
Supplements
Lutheran Bible Translators of Canada Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February Lutheran Women’s Missionary League–Canada Vol. 30, No. 2 March/April Concordia Lutheran Mission Society Vol. 30, No. 3 May/June Lutherwood Vol. 30, No. 4 July/August Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots Vol. 30, No. 5 September/October Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada Vol. 30, No. 6 November/December Additional articles appeared online at www.CanadianLutheran.ca.
The “Right Side of History”? Vol. 30, No. 1 January/February
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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
Rev. Martin S. W. Chiang passed away in the Lord on September 14, 2015. He enjoyed 90 years on earth, having been born in Hunan province, China on March 17, 1925. Along with his parents, he was baptized at the Lutheran Gospel Church in Hunan. His father attended a famous military college in China and was believed to have perished in the Japanese invasion of China when Rev. Chiang was six months old. His widowed mother took a position as a nurse for a Norwegian mission in Hunan province in order to support Rev. Chiang and his four-yearold brother, Shao Wie. Rev. Chiang and his brother received a Christian education at Lutheran schools in Hunan. In 1937, much of China was plunged into extreme hardship. The Lutheran school which he was attending was relocated to a safer part of the province, and Rev. Chiang continued his education there. Rev. Chiang received training from American forces in China and served in the communications corps. At the end of the World War II, Rev. Chiang returned home to Hunan to teach at the prior location of his alma mater, although the church buildings, clinic, and school had been largely destroyed by the war. Encouraged to pursue theological education, Rev. Chiang was led by the Holy Spirit to serve in the ministry. In 1948, he enrolled in the Lutheran Seminary in Hubei. In his first term, internal conflict within China caused the school to relocate to Hong Kong. Upon graduation in 1952, Rev. Chiang was transferred to work as a local missionary for the Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod. In 1957, Rev. Chiang was ordained as a pastor and served Saviour Lutheran Church in Kowloon. On April 17, 1959, Rev. Chiang married Kit Ling Wong. Their union was blessed with three children: Mark, Paul, and Elizabeth.
In Memoriam (continued) In 1968, Rev. Chiang was elected president of the Lutheran ChurchHong Kong Synod and was one of two power of attorney holders for the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. He was re-elected in 1971. In 1974, he accepted a call from the LCMS, ABC District to be a missionary to the Chinese people in Vancouver. He served Prince of Peace Lutheran Church from 1974 to 1990, when he retired from the ministry. During his service, he preached, visited, instructed confirmation classes, and baptized many new Christians. He established a Chinese school for the church and his sermons were often broadcast on the radio sponsored by Lutheran Hour Ministries. After Rev. Chiang’s retirement in 1990, Rev. Thompson Mok from Hong Kong was called to serve Prince of Peace. Rev. Chiang remained an advisor to the congregation. When Rev. Raymond Wong and Rev. Jaime Ventura served the congregation as vacancy pastors, Rev. Chiang continued to assist with regular preaching. From 1997-1998, Rev. Chiang served as interim pastor to the Mandarin fellowship at Trinity Lutheran Church in Richmond, B.C. He fully retired when his son Rev. Mark Chiang was called to Prince of Peace in 2006. Rev. Chiang is survived by his wife Kit Ling; sons Rev. Mark Chiang and Paul Chiang (Karen); one daughter Elizabeth Moy (John); grandsons Samuel and Caleb Chiang; and granddaughters Stephanie and Jennifer Moy, all of Vancouver.
Rev. Harold Rudolph Patzer passed away February 9, 2015 at the age of 83. He was b e l o v e d husband of Barbara for 53 years and devoted father to Mark and Lisa (Atlanta), Paul and Elizabeth (Metcalfe), Jane and Howard (Montreal), David (Ottawa), Steven and Gina (Kanata). He was also loving grandfather to Jennifer; Tyler, Laci, and Ryan; and Brett and Kayla. Left to mourn are Harold’s only sister, Eleanor Schweyer (Windsor) and many relatives and friends in Windsor, Manitoba, British Columbia, and Michigan. Rev. Patzer was predeceased by his parents Rudolph and Karoline Patzer (née Flatt). Rev. Patzer worked at the Ford Motor Company in Windsor before attending Concordia Lutheran Seminary (Springfield, Illinois), graduating in 1960. He served in active ministry for 36 years and was the Ontario District secretary for 16 years. Harold loved photography, reading, nature and the Word of God A funeral service was held at Zion Lutheran Church in Augsburg on February 14. Well-wishers were encouraged to make donations to the Parkinson Society of Canada, T h e B o n n e c h e r e M a n o r, o r Canadian Lutheran World Relief.
“And I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Blessed indeed,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them!’”
Rev. Richard Wu ka s c h , husband of the late Sylvia Wukasch, father of six, grandfather of eighteen, and greatgrandfather of five, went to be with the Lord at the age of 91 on August 21, 2015. Re v. Wu k a s c h w a s b o r n November 23, 1923 in St. Louis, Missouri, where he later met Sylvia. During his life, he served as a parish pastor in Bristol, Connecticut; Baltimore, Maryland; and New Castle, Delaware, as well as serving as a chaplain in the U.S. Naval Reserve. In 1967, the Wukasch family relocated to Toronto, when plans for overseas missionary work in Nigeria were cancelled due to political turmoil in that country. Rev. Wukasch was assigned to be the Lutheran Chaplain at Toronto General Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital (Toronto), and Riverdale Hospital (Toronto). His care and compassion for patients and their families was evident to all, and he continued his chaplaincy work even after his retirement at the Heidehof Long-Term Care Facility and Shaver Hospital in St. Catharine's, Ontario. Rev. Wukasch also served as a guest pastor at several Lutheran churches in the Niagara Region and was on the boards of various Lutheran agencies and ministries. His sense of compassion, sociable nature, service to others, and strong committment to his Lord were a blessing to many over his sixty years of ministry, but especially to his wife and family, and friends. He will be greatly missed but is now experiencing the joy and wonder of Heaven with his Saviour.
- Revelation 14:13 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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Thuringia, Germany—Discover the heart of it
Travelling in the footsteps of Martin Luther
© UNESCO World Heritage Wartburg Castle / A.-L. Thamm / Thuringia Tourist Board
T
he 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 fast approaching, the German Federal State of Thuringia is taking centre stage. A two-and-a-half hour drive from both Berlin, to the north-east, and Frankfurt, to the south-west, this corner of Germany is known as LutherCountry. Beyond its Luther connections, though, Thuringia also boasts a wealth of historic castles, cutting-edge contemporary architecture and some of Europe’s most charming medieval towns that dot the region’s picturesque countryside. One of the world’s great religious revolutionaries, Martin Luther (1483-1546), spent a large part of his life studying and working in this German cultural heartland. From 1505 to 1512, when the Church was still united, he was a friar and priest in the Augustinian monastery of Erfurt, becoming a reformer in 1517, when he published his revolutionary 95 Theses that ultimately led to the division of the Church. Hiding in the lofty heights of the Wartburg Castle, near Eisenach, he translated the New Testament into German, in later years staying in the Thuringian town of Schmalkalden, where he helped forge the Protestant alliance against Roman Catholic politicians and armies led by German Emperor Charles V. The year 2017 commemorates the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, and LutherCountry welcomes visitors from around the globe to travel in Martin Luther’s footsteps. A number of special exhibitions are being organized, leading up to the anniversary. In Eisenach, the newly re-opened Luther House recently launched its permanent-collection “Luther and
the Bible” multi-media show. Next year, starting 24 April to August 28, an exhibition called “The Ernestines. A dynasty shapes Europe” will present more than four centuries of Thuringian and European history and culture; organized by the State of Thuringia, it is staged in two cities: at Gotha’s Friedenstein Palace, where centuries of art and antiques will include a gallery of Cranach wood panel paintings, and at both City Castle and New Museum in Weimar, those exhibits highlighting the 100-year rivalry between the Protestant Ernestines and Catholic Hapsburgs. In 2017, starting 4 May to 5 November, a major exhibition at Eisenach’s Wartburg Castle called “Luther and the Germans” will present how Luther’s translation of the Bible led to a common German language and identity. Follow in Luther’s footsteps to discover the Luther sights in Eisenach and at Wartburg Castle, or in the State capital, the medieval city of Erfurt. Visitors interested in additional authentic sights, may travel elsewhere in Thuringia—to Weimar, Schmalkalden or Mühlhausen, for example—to find more places where Luther lived, worked and preached. For further information, brochures, travel programmes, tickets or hotel bookings, please contact Tourist Information Thuringia or visit www.visit-thuringia.com or www.visit-luther.com. Tourist Information Thuringia Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 99084 Erfurt, Germany Phone: +49 (0)361-37420 service@thueringen-tourismus.de www.visit-thuringia.com or www.visit-luther.com
Daily Bible Reading
“Is not My Word like fire?”
W
ith this issue’s readings we begin in earnest to read the writings of the Bible’s major prophets. Among these is Jeremiah, a prophet who had the unenviable task of prophesying the coming exile of Israel. It’s not always a job he wanted, he notes, but the importance of speaking (and hearing) God’s Word was greater than his own discomfort. He writes: “His Word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot (Jeremiah 20:9)” Find earlier readings in previous issues of The Canadian Lutheran, o r d ow n l o a d t h e m a t w w w. canadianlutheran.ca/biblereading/.
“Since the Church has been born of the Divine Word, there is no doubt but that she must be nourished by the same.” - Philip Melanchthon
WEEK 54 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Is 7:1–8:22 Is 9:1–10:34 Is 11:1–12:6 Is 13:1–20:6 Is 21:1–23:18 Is 24:1–25:12
WEEK 58 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Jer 3:1–4:31 Jer 5:1–6:30 Jer 7:1–8:22 Jer 9:1–10:25 Jer 11:1–12:17 Jer 13:1–14:22
WEEK 62 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Lm 2:1–3:66 Lm 4:1–5:22 Ezk 1:1–2:10 Ezk 3:1–5:17 Ezk 6:1–7:27 Ezk 8:1–9:11
WEEK 55 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Is 26:1–27:13 Is 28:1–29:24 Is 30:1–31:9 Is 32:1–20 Is 33:1–35:10 Is 36:1–39:8
WEEK 59 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Jer 15:1–17:27 Jer 18:1–19:15 Jer 20:1–22:30 Jer 23:1–40 Jer 24:1–25:38 Jer 26:1–28:17
WEEK 63 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Ezk 10:1–11:25 Ezk 12:1–13:23 Ezk 14:1–15:8 Ezk 16:1–17:24 Ezk 18:1–19:14 Ezk 20:1–21:32
WEEK 56 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Is 40:1–41:29 Is 42:1–43:28 Is 44:1–45:25 Is 46:1–47:15 Is 48:1–49:26 Is 50:1–52:15
WEEK 60 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Jer 29:1–32 Jer 30:1–32:44 Jer 33:1–26 Jer 34:1–35:19 Jer 36:1–37:21 Jer 38:1–40:16
WEEK 64 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Ezk 22:1–23:49 Ezk 24:1–27 Ezk 25:1–27:36 Ezk 28:1–26 Ezk 29:1–32:32 Ezk 33:1–34:31
WEEK 57 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Is 53:1–12 Is 54:1–57:21 Is 58:1–59:21 Is 60:1–62:12 Is 63:1–66:24 Jer 1:1–2:37
WEEK 61 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Jer 41:1–43:13 Jer 44:1–45:5 Jer 46:1–49:39 Jer 50:1–51:64 Jer 52:1–34 Lm 1:1–22
WEEK 65 Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat
Ezk 35:1–36:38 Ezk 37:1–39:29 Ezk 40:1–42:20 Ezk 43:1–31 Ezk 44:1–31 Ezk 45:1–46:24
Readings for the above plan are from the Lutheran Study Bible © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission. To purchase this resource or other Bible reading resources, please visit CPH at www.cph.org. THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
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Presidential Perspective
Breaking through our darkness President Robert Bugbee “The people walking in the dark will see a great light.” - Isaiah 9:2 AAT
W
hen 2015 passes into the history books, it will not be remembered as a bright spot. Not in the world in general. And not in our church. As I write this, the world is reeling from the terrorist killing of 130 people in Paris. Earlier this year, countless families began fleeing the bloodshed in Syria and elsewhere. We all saw the pitiful photo of a little boy from one of those families lying lifeless on a beach. As winter sets in, multitudes are stumbling along on a road somewhere in Europe. Others are stuck in frustration—and maybe despair—at a border crossing now tightly closed in their faces. While all that swirls around in a world approaching Christmas, I cannot help but think of the shock many people in our churches in western Canada experienced just after last Christmas. They learned that they may well have lost money they entrusted to their District. As of this moment, the situation remains tied up in a court process. For those depending on these funds to meet ongoing needs, the pain is obvious. For others who may be better off, there was a different heartache, a loss of trust in the church they dearly believed in throughout their lives. Still others, though not personally affected by the crisis, felt sorrow in watching the pain of friends and the turmoil this has set off.
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It all seems so needless. It all wouldn’t have to be that way, if some people didn’t delight in violence, or if others had been quicker to see a financial crisis coming. It all wouldn’t have to be that way if the world were not so broken and fallen. It wouldn’t have to be that way if people—including you and me—were not sinners. But that’s what we are. That’s given rise to so much of what causes us sadness. That’s what has turned our world—and sometimes even the church—into a dark place. 700 years before Jesus was ever born, God’s man Isaiah foretold that people “walking in darkness” would see a great light. These would be men and women stumbling about because of the sinful things others around them were doing, and because of the sinful things they themselves were constantly doing. These would be people in the dark because they couldn’t see a way of escape on their own. More than anything, people need “a great light.” That’s a light big enough to cut through the dark so you and I could see the way out, and the way forward. The New Testament announces that the promise published by Isaiah came true when Jesus took His place in our world and started preaching (Matthew 4:14-15). It’s not just that Jesus brings light. Jesus Himself is God’s light... aimed at you! Jesus, the Light, can shine on the dark mess of human sin and show it for what it is, a dead-end street that ruins you. Jesus, the Light, can shine forth and make clear that He’s the Lord’s way out of the dark, paying for your freedom
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN November/December 2015
by the death He died, and opening wide the road to relief that leads back to God again. Yo u p r o b a b l y k n o w t h a t Christmas was not scheduled on December 25 because anybody can prove this was the precise date of Jesus’ birth. However, the early believers felt that this point in the year was a splendid way of showing what Jesus is and gives. When the days are at their shortest and the darkness at its longest, that’s when we celebrate the love God showed by sending His Christ into our world. After all, you notice a candle’s light much more on a dark winter night than you ever would on a bright sunny day in the summer! Jesus means to be that light for you... once again and brand-new... this Christmas. In those moments when you feel nearly engulfed by the darkness brought on by your own sins and failures and those of other people; in those moments when the whole “climate” out there in the world looks totally misguided and wrong, Bethlehem’s little Christ comes to shine His light into the dark. He’s ready to do it for people everywhere whose hearts are sore right now because of the violence and inhumanity of others. He’s ready to do it for people who have endured bitter disappointment, even in the church. He’s ready to do it again for you, whoever you are, whatever darkness presses in on you. The apostle had it right: “The real light is already shining” (1 John 2:8 AAT). I pray that this Christmas will find you close to Him.
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