Letters to the editor

I agree with much of Kevin Miller's analysis of contemporary Christian music (Dec. 12). Contemporary Christian music suffers from a divided purpose: It wants to entertain but also is expected to deliver an evangelical message. When we consider the common elements of rock music (loud volume, heavy beat, discordant instrumentation) and that this music has been historically identified with social restlessness, dissatisfaction and rebellion, it becomes difficult to combine it with the gospel message. Any music communicates as much (or more) through its sound as its lyrics. I encourage Christians to follow Philippians 4:8: Seek music that is lovely and inspiring to hear, not just for theologically correct vocals.

Roland Derksen,

Vancouver, B.C.

Thanks for the thorough and helpful "Canadian Church Planting Congress '97" (Jan.9). You captured the spirit and intent of the event very well. May the Lord of the church now empower us for accomplishing His purpose.

I'm grateful, too, for the leading role the Canadian Conference of MB Churches has been playing in this movement. May the Lord bless you richly and add many to His eternal kingdom through your faithful efforts.

Murray Moerman (E),

Church Planting Canada

Wow! We have gone through your Nov. 7 issue (Abortion) and wanted to say a collective thanks for the gutsy journalism and beautifully balanced articles. We loved the way you covered the local, national and global scene. We hope that this material not only enlightens the intellect, but helps to save real babies from certain death and their mothers from great anguish. The issues surrounding abortion are critical. If we do not ascribe value to the earliest and most vulnerable members of our human race, then it can only be ascribed arbitrarily at some later point--at the whim of those in power. (Drs. Watson and Crick desire to "grant personhood" only after some significant time post-birth.)

Juergen M. Severloh,

Crisis Pregnancy Centre,

Winnipeg, Man.

The Nov. 7 issue on abortion has been a long time coming. I commend you for tackling this issue (as well as other controversial subjects). The facts were accurate and well presented, the articles intriguing. I hope they challenged many of our brothers and sisters to be more involved in pro-life issues.

Dennis Hemminger,

B.C. Family Care Foundation,

Maple Ridge, B.C.

There is nothing like the original message of Jesus Christ to bring salvation to sinners and build the church. Strategy does not work. It may draw people to the church, but it cannot save them from their sins.

Kevin Miller has it right ("Christian music ain't got no soul", Dec. 12). Dressing secular music, drama and dance in spiritual overtones and calling it Christian, does not work. People soon tire of the imitation, and others are drawn by the more professional package of the secular and leave the church.

Henry Koop,

Winnipeg, Man.

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