MWR : Articles : June 23, 2008

Last updated November 24.

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Articles : June 23, 2008

Humbly proud

Almost every Mennonite probably has heard or said some-thing like, “We’re proud — in a humble sort of way.” The statement reveals a Christian dilemma that afflicts Mennonites more than most. Believers are to be humble but also bold, meek but also courageous. How is that possible?

Amid worship changes, Mennonites still love their hymnals

Even in an age of “off-the-wall” music and changes in worship, Mennonites in about another decade will want to sing from a new hymnal — preferably one reflecting their increasingly diverse voice.
In Kentucky, bringing up a church like family

ONEIDA, Ky. — Poverty, broken families and a lack of opportunity create pitfalls for Clay County’s youth. Bored and unable to find work, they often turn to drugs for recreation and as a source of income.
Rural and urban, local food idea grows

Boxes and bins of tomatoes, asparagus, rhubarb and spring onions line a shelf at Kauffman’s Fruit Farm and Market in Bird-in-Hand, Pa. Labels read, “Lancaster County Grown” and “Locally Grown.”
Beachy Amish bridge diversity of practices

A tale of two churches: One has organized softball teams with uniforms and shows DVD movies at youth activities. Another disallows youth activities altogether, uses German in services and takes a stand against posing for photographs, even for driver’s licenses.
Churches revive faith in former East Germany

DRESDEN, Germany — It removed mention of Christ’s birth and God from the lyrics of Christmas songs.

Ten Thousand Villages honored for ethics

AKRON, Pa. — World fair trade leader Ten Thousand Villages has been recognized as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by The Ethisphere Institute and Forbes magazine.
MWC calls for prayer as Zimbabwe runoff nears

STRASBOURG, France — Mennonite World Conference is sending a deacon couple and calling for prayer and fasting June 26-27 as Zimbabweans face a tense runoff presidential election.
Hole-in-one a first for Spruce Lake

CANADENSIS, Pa. — It was a long shot.
Lancaster, Pa., parents organize to offer Christ-centered sports

LANCASTER, Pa. — A committee of parents working closely with Lancaster Mennonite School recently established the Mennonite Sports Organization to provide Christ-centered sports opportunities for elementary-age children.