Ambassador To His People: C.F. Klassen and the Russian Mennonite Refugees

Description Herbert & Maureen Klassen The Mennonite, back in 1954 stated that “there is probably no living Mennonite who is so widely known & so universally respected as was the late C. F. Klassen, who died in Germany of a heart attack. Widely known he was, not only in the Mennonite world, but also in government & United Nations circles where he moved about with dignity & a relaxed style that could be the envy of any diplomat. He was universally respected, except perhaps by a few of his own people who either did not understand his actions & motives or were confused in their notions about the role of leadership.” The story of C. F. Klassen is a story of inspiration & challenge. But, it is more than that. It is also the story of the Mennonite Central Committee, now a world relief organization with personnel in many countries. C. F. Klassen’s work among the refugees fleeing Russia became the basis for the operation of MCC. Today, this Mennonite organization assists in development & social justice in many countries. Its worldwide ministry is still based in a love for Christ, in that its motto is “In the Name of Christ.” Just as C. F. Klassen was a helper in the hour of need; a shining example of what living for others means; a constant inspiration; a reminder to all that truth & integrity need not be compromised however difficult the task or noble the ends; even so the new generation of servants is seeking to fulfill that same sense of direction & servanthood.