Salvationist April 2013

Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice: My Journey With Cancer

Growing Servant Leaders

Does the Army Truly Embrace Diversity?

Salvationist The Voice of the Army

April 2013

The Army’s Best-Kept Secret RISEN CHRIST, WOUNDED GOD

Music of the Heart

In Victoria, the Army’s rehabilitation centre gives residents a new song 1 I April 2012 I Salvationist

an evening of music and scripture

The RHythm of The Rock

in support of The Canadian Council of Churches

The Salvation Army Historical Society

hosted by

Frank Faulk CBC Radio Documentary Producer eight top musical acts including

The Salvation Army Canadian Sta Band

The 99th Anniversary Memorial Service commemorating the sinking of the Empress of Ireland and paying tribute to those officers and soldiers of The Salvation Army who since May 27th, 2012 have been promoted to glory Lieutenant Colonel Sandra Rice - Secretary For Personnel Amsterdam Staff Band Sunday, May 26th, 2013 at 3:00 pm Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Toronto - Rain or Shine salvationarmy.ca/ontariocentraleast/empress-of-ireland

2 I April 2013 I Salvationist

Wednesday, May 15, 2013 $50 ($25 Students & Seniors)

7:30pm

Metropolitan United Church 56 Queen Street East, Toronto

Purchase tickets at therhythmoftherock.eventbrite.com

19mm

than is required.

Inside This Issue Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX

April 2013 No. 83 www.salvationist.ca E-mail: salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org

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Departments 3 4 Editorial

24 Cross Culture 4 25 Celebrate Community

5 Around the Territory 15 Mission Matters

28 The Storyteller

“Eureka!”

by Major Jim Champ Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Enrolments and recognition, tributes, gazette, calendar Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX

Sowing Good Seed

by Major Fred Ash

I Believe in Transformation PRODUCT

by Commissioner Brian PeddleLABELING GUIDE FaithFOREST WorksSTEWARDSHIP COUNCIL The Towel and Basin Point Counterpoint

by Major Kathie Chiu Cultural Integration

by Cadet Leonard Heng and Talking Points Captain Rick Zelinsky From Hero to Zero

by Major Juan Burry

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16

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22 Ministry in Action The Fantastic Five

by Ken Ramstead

Cover photo: Kevin Light

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Features 8 Music of the Heart

At the Victoria Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, a new music program is helping residents gain self-confidence

by Kristin Fryer

10 Risen Christ, Wounded God

An open invitation to see and believe by Major Ray Harris

12 The Army’s Best-Kept Secret

Tranquility and fond memories await at Jackson’s Point Conference Centre by Melissa Yue Wallace

18 My Journey With Cancer

A survivor chronicles the hurdles and emotions of an unexpected battle by Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice

20 Caught in a Downward Spiral

Addicted to gambling, Bonnie Bonnetta could not find peace, until a surprising discovery led her to The Salvation Army by Kristin Fryer

Inside Faith & Friends Crowning Glory

As a Salvationist and Miss Bermuda, Rochelle Minors is determined to show the world the wonders of her island

The Burning Man

James McIntyre’s addictions almost consumed him. Would he ever find peace?

Share Your Faith When you finish reading Faith & Friends, FAITH & pull it out and give it to someone who CROWNING needs to hear GLORY about Christ’s life-changing Who s + power

frıends

April 2013

“Would I Lie to You?”

How parents answer this question is crucial

When the Cupboards Were Bare

The Salvation Army restored a mother’s hope

faithandfriends.ca

Inspiration for Living

As a member of The Salvation Army and Miss Bermuda, Rochelle Minors is determined to show the world the wonders of her island

A SECOND  WANT CHANCE? See Page 20

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Got Mail?

Phil Callaway Does

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World Watch

Keep up to date on what the Army is doing internationally.

Visit salvationist.ca/ worldwatch

Sharing the Vision

General Linda Bond’s letters to Salvationists around the world can be read at salvationist.ca/ tag/sharing-the-vision Salvationist I April 2013 I 3

EDITORIAL

I

“Eureka!”

n high school, I wasn’t very interested in studying science. But my Grade 10 teacher certainly caught my attention when he told us about this Greek fellow who ran naked into the street, shouting at the top of his lungs, “Eureka! Eureka!”

There are few who have contributed more to the field of science than Archimedes. Born in 287 BC, he was one of the greatest mathematicians of all time. Not only that, Archimedes was also a physician, astronomer, engineer and inventor. Some of his inventions include the lever and the pulley. He developed new ways of understanding mechanics, buoyancy, hydrostatics and specific gravity. Yet it was his exuberance and unconstrained enthusiasm that captured my attention.

The story behind this risqué behaviour is the stuff of legends. King Hieron suspected that he had been cheated by the maker of a golden crown that he had ordered for his royal head. While its weight seemed to match the specifications, the king wanted proof that the goldsmith had not cut corners and added silver to the precious metal. He presented the challenge to Archimedes asking that he verify the purity of his prized possession. And the story goes that while having a bath, this man of science had a flash of brilliance that led

him to solve the problem of the crown.

In his excitement, Archimedes leapt to his feet and dashed outdoors shouting in his native tongue, “Eureka!” which means, “I have discovered it!”

Major Ray Harris leads us in a discovery of a different nature this month as he reminds us of the confusion and disbelief of the disciples during Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection (pages 10-11). Many of us will not only understand the fear that gripped both Mary Magdalene and Thomas, but we will also identify with their hesitancy and lack of faith when confronted with the possibility of the Resurrection. Could it be true? Did the crucified Christ rise from the dead? The major points out that it was in their seemingly darkest hours that each found their lives forever changed by Jesus.

Read carefully the evidence of transformed lives throughout these pages.

Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice speaks boldly of her confidence in the living Christ as she battled cancer (pages 18-19). Bonnie Bonnetta testifies to overcoming her gambling addiction (pages 20-21). Staff writer Kristin Fryer witnesses changed lives from a unique music therapy program at the Army’s Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre in Victoria (pages 8-9).

In the events of Easter, God grabbed our attention. Have you experienced one of those “eureka” moments in your life?

The kind of moment when you encounter the risen Christ up close and personal?

It is a transformational moment that brings us into a right relationship with the living God. Understanding the laws of nature gave cause for Archimedes to shout, “Eureka!” How much more does God’s grace give us reason to declare to the world, “My Lord and my God!”

MAJOR JIM CHAMP

Editor-in-Chief

Salvationist

is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Linda Bond General Commissioner Brian Peddle Territorial Commander Major Jim Champ Editor-in-Chief Geoff Moulton Assistant Editor-in-Chief Melissa Yue Wallace Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Production Co-ordinator, Copy Editor (416-422-6112) Kristin Fryer Associate Editor and Staff Writer Timothy Cheng Art Director Ada Leung Circulation Co-ordinator Ken Ramstead Contributor Agreement No. 40064794, ISSN 1718-5769.

Member, The Canadian Church Press. All Scripture references from the Holy Bible, Today’s New International Version (TNIV) © 2001, 2005 International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

All rights reserved worldwide. All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory and can be reprinted only with written permission.

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Mission

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Salvationist informs readers about the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. salvationist.ca salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org facebook.com/salvationistmagazine twitter.com/salvationist

4 I April 2013 I Salvationist

AROUND THE TERRITORY

Oshawa Corps Explores the Salvation Army Opens Cold Spirituality of Knitting Weather Shelter in Regina

The Oshawa Temple knitting group meets twice weekly at the thrift store

FOR THE PAST year, a group has been meeting twice weekly in the Salvation Army thrift store in Oshawa, Ont., to knit together.

The knitting group began as a sign on the door of the thrift store which read “The Spirituality of Knitting.” The sign piqued the curiosity of people coming to the store, and soon the group had many members. Since then, close friendships have formed, giving participants a profound sense of community.

Each session includes a devotional time and some of the group are now regular participants at Oshawa Temple.

To meet the needs of group members who wished to explore more deeply the spiritual dimension of life, the corps also launched a weekly 12-step spiritual journey program.

THE SALVATION ARMY in Regina, in partnership with the United Way, worked to ensure that no man would be left out in the cold this winter.

In February, the Army launched a Cold Weather Response Program, which temporarily increased the capacity at the Waterston Centre’s men’s emergency shelter by 15 beds every night. The service, which runs until April 30, provides shelter from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. All clients receive a light snack in the evening, breakfast in the morning and access to shower and bathroom facilities.

“The intent of the Cold Weather Response Program is to provide late night, overnight and early morning supervision, safe shelter, support and assistance for men who might otherwise be left in the cold,” says Captain Ben Lippers, executive director, Waterston Centre. “The Salvation Army is thankful to be partnering with United Way as we do everything in our power to provide less-fortunate men safe shelter and, more importantly, dignity.”

Cpt Ben Lippers makes beds at the Regina cold weather shelter

Army Opens Shelter on P.E.I. THE SALVATION ARMY recently opened Bedford MacDonald House in Charlottetown, P.E.I., the only men’s shelter on the island.

The grand opening event drew a crowd of approximately 50 government officials and community partners, and featured speeches from Army officials and local politicians, including Mayor Clifford Lee and MLA Valerie E. Docherty.

“Our government recognizes that there are times when Island men need a warm and welcoming place to go and we are pleased to be able to support the community effort to reopen Bedford MacDonald House,” says Docherty. “I would like to congratulate The Salvation Army and the community partners whose hard work and dedication ensured this reopening became a reality.”

The seven-bed shelter came into the hands of The Salvation Army after an Island businessman anonymously donated $200,000 to help cover repair and operational costs over the next five years. Bedford MacDonald House was closed for three months in 2012 for significant renovations, reopening under The Salvation Army’s name in December.

Salvation Army officers and government officials participate in a ribboncutting ceremony to officially open Bedford MacDonald House. From left, Cpt Jamie Locke; Colonel Floyd Tidd, chief secretary; Mjr Doug Hefford, DC, Maritime Div; MLA Valerie E. Docherty; Mayor Clifford Lee; Mjr Jean Hefford, DDWM, Maritime Div; Cpt Elaine Locke, CO, Charlottetown CC

“Bedford MacDonald House represents a wonderful addition to our ministry,” says Captain Jamie Locke, corps officer, Charlottetown Community Church. “We are excited to offer this shelter and support to those in need in our community.”

Since its reopening, the shelter has proved an important service in the community, with occupancy averaging four men each night.

Salvationist I April 2013 I 5

AROUND THE TERRITORY

Ontario Youth Band Tours California

Bermuda Salvationists Focus on Evangelism

THE ONTARIO CENTRAL-EAST Divisional Youth Band went on a six-day tour of the greater Los Angeles area in December.

This tour included marching in the famous Tournament of Roses Parade, which The Salvation Army has participated in continuously for more than 90 years.

On the first day of the tour, the band enjoyed a special opportunity to perform at Disneyland, which hosts up to 15 visiting bands on any given day. The following day, they gave a concert in Hollywood at the outdoor mall of Hollywood and Highland, the host location of the Academy Awards. Crowds gathered to listen to the music and enjoy their ministry.

The band were musical guests at Torrance Corps on Sunday, where band members gave their testimony and sang special music. Captain Stephen White, divisional youth secretary, Ontario Central-East Division, delivered the message.

That afternoon, the band participated in the Tournament of Roses Bandfest at Pasadena City College, and capped off the day with an evening of music and fellowship at Pasadena Tabernacle. Bill Flinn, Pasadena Tabernacle bandmaster and executive director of the Tournament of Roses, greeted the band and presented Bandmaster Robert Brown with an award for participating in the Tournament of Roses Parade.

On New Year’s Day, the band’s tour culminated with the Tournament of Roses Parade. When the Salvation Army band took centre stage at the start of the parade, the crowd cheered in appreciation.

“My trip to the 2013 Rose Bowl Parade will not be soon forgotten,” reflects Andrew Dolan, divisional youth band member. “While a great ministry to those in southern California, the trip was also a time of spiritual renewal and growth for all band members.”

SALVATIONISTS IN BERMUDA have been thinking strategically about how to engage their community and a new generation w ith the message of the gospel. In support Salvationists in Bermuda discuss evangelism at of divisional and a recent conference territorial mission priorities, the division implemented a new strategy in January that saw all corps participate in a division-wide conversation on evangelism through the “Just Walk Across the Room” series

by Bill Hybels. The response was incredible as people recalled the essence of their story and the mission of the church.

A focal point of the initiative was the Mission Impact conference on evangelism, which brought Salvationists together for a weekend of teaching, fellowship, worship and prayer. A highlight of the weekend was the Saturday workshops led by Majors Fred and Wendy Waters, corps ministries secretary and adult ministries secretary. Approximately 75 people shared in learning and conversation as they considered their place in the story that God is telling. Salvationists were inspired to embrace the opportunity to be full participants in shaping the future mission of the church.

After the conference, the focus on evangelism continued as each corps held a “Celebration Sunday” in March. These events were designed to connect and reconnect the corps with individuals, families and communities in meaningful ways.

“Many Salvationists have captured a new reality of mission,” says Major Shawn Critch, divisional commander, Bermuda Division. “God has even greater things in store for The Salvation Army in Bermuda.”

Did you know …

The Ont. CE Divisional Youth Band marches in the 2013 Tournament of Roses Parade

For more Army news, visit us online at

salvationist.ca

6 I April 2013 I Salvationist

… The Salvation Army provided timely assistance after a series of collisions involving 70-80 vehicles occurred on Highway 401 near Newcastle, Ont., in January? The Army sent a van to the crash scene to deliver food and drinks to stranded motorists and volunteers set up a relief station at the Newcastle Community Centre … after extensive renovations, The Salvation Army celebrated the grand reopening of the Bethany Hope Centre in Ottawa in February? … The Salvation Army provided 2.8 million meals to Canadians last year? … Col Glen Shepherd was elected to be Chair of the Board of Booth University College for a three-year term? Col Shepherd, a former chief secretary for the Canada and Bermuda Tty, currently serves as president and CEO of Health Partners International … The Salvation Army opened a new thrift store in Pickering, Ont., in February?

AROUND THE TERRITORY

North Toronto Kicks Off Anniversary Celebrations

Thirty players participated in the North Toronto CC 100th anniversary hockey game

NORTH TORONTO COMMUNITY Church kicked off its 100th anniversary celebrations by hosting a special hockey game. The game is part of a series of events that will take place at the corps throughout 2013.

The event recalls the many years North Toronto spent in the former Salvation Army Hockey League, which was popular among younger members of the corps.

“Many former members of the team have told us that the opportunity to play hockey was one of their best memories

from being teens and young adults,” says Captain Rick Zelinsky, corps officer.

Thirty players participated in the game, which pitted older former members of the team against younger ones.

About 110 people came to watch.

Future anniversary events include a Blue Jays game in April, a waterfront cruise in June, a rally day picnic in September and more.

“We wanted to provide opportunities for people to connect throughout the year,” explains Captain Zelinsky.

“There’s something for everybody.”

The ceremonial opening face-off. From left, Mark Cameron, Cpts Rick and Deana Zelinsky, COs, Art Cameron and John Tillsley

Retreat Inspires Maritime Youth THE MARITIME DIVISION is making ministry to youth a priority. In addition to its two annual retreats for teenagers,

the division recently added an event specifically for young adults.

The first annual College and Careers

Young adults enjoy the first annual College and Careers Retreat in Truro, N.S.

Retreat was held in January in Truro, N.S., with nearly 30 young adults from across three provinces attending.

The theme for the weekend was Jesus Manifesto: Restoring the supremacy of Christ in your life and culture. Guest speakers Majors Keith and Shona Pike, territorial youth secretary and secretary for candidates, challenged the young adults to make Christ the centre of their lives. The final message gave them a powerful image of walking so close to Christ that they would be covered daily in the dust of their rabbi.

“The retreat was so personal and wonderful,” says one young adult who attended. “The times with my small group gave me the opportunity to get to know the other youth more intimately, and the focus on restoring the supremacy of Jesus has had a huge impact on me.”

Salvationist I April 2013 I 7

Photos: Kevin Light

Jason Saumier plays guitar with Nathan Swartz, chaplain at the Victoria Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre

Music of the Heart

At the Victoria Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, a new music program is helping residents gain self-confidence

A

t first, it was just a few guys playing guitar in the chapel.

But the sound of their chords and rhythms travelled down the halls, drawing others in. Soon, more people came, bringing their own instruments, joining in, forming groups, until 18 men were playing together. Guitars, piano, bongos and xylophone—a truly joyful noise.

“I get goose bumps just thinking about that night,” says Nathan Swartz, 8 I April 2013 I Salvationist

BY KRISTIN FRYER, STAFF WRITER chaplain at the Victoria Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre. Swartz co-ordinates the Music Jam program at the centre, which gives clients an opportunity to play musical instruments as part of their recovery. “I wanted to breathe life into the community, and I think music is an essential part of that.”

The idea for Music Jam came to Swartz last May when he noticed some of the clients going into the centre’s chapel to play the piano. Thinking that the men

might enjoy playing other instruments as well, Swartz found a few guitars and placed them in the chapel. As the men came in to play the instruments, he was amazed by the number of talented musicians he heard. Sensing a ministry opportunity, he started hosting a weekly jam session on Friday afternoons.

It didn’t take long to catch on. Within the first month, 10-15 men were showing up each week. “The clients were loving it,” says Swartz. “They thought

it was great.”

The program currently offers three acoustic guitars, an electric guitar, electric bass and a set of bongo drums. As the clientele of the shelter has changed over the past year, the format of the program has evolved as well to meet the needs of the community. Instead of a weekly jam session, the shelter now allows clients to sign out the instruments for as long as they like between 12 and 9 p.m. every day. About 20 men sign out instruments on an average day, a significant portion of the 149-bed shelter.

The program attracts musicians of all backgrounds and musical styles. If you visited the centre, you might hear a client playing classical Spanish guitar music, the country-rock jams of Johnny Cash or some old familiar jazz standards.

Many of the men also write their own music. Participants are young and old, beginners and experts, and everything in between.

Jason Saumier, who is just learning to play the guitar, signs one out for at least an hour every day. He loves playing because it relaxes him.

“I enjoy it and it’s really comforting,” he says. “I’m always in a better mood after I’m done playing.”

Saumier has been living at the centre for the past few months after being released from prison and is undergoing treatment to help him overcome his addiction to drugs.

“I’m not just here for a place to stay,” he says. “I’m here to better myself and learning to play guitar is part of that.

“Playing guitar makes me feel good about myself,” he continues. “If I start practising chords and I’m not too good at them, and then I eventually get them, it increases my confidence.”

Swartz says that boosting self-esteem is one of the primary purposes of the Music Jam program. He sees this in new players who take pride in learning a skill and especially in experienced players who enjoy teaching others how to play.

“If you live in the homeless community long enough, you start to feel worthless,” he says. “But now, if you are talented on the guitar, suddenly you’re a pillar of the community. I’ve noticed a huge change in attitude and self-worth among those men.”

Swartz also notes that the teachinglearning aspect of the program has brought the community at the shelter closer together.

“They now have a shared interest,”

he says. “You see guys who normally wouldn’t talk to each other sitting together, playing music and learning from each other.”

Saumier often plays on his own, but he also enjoys listening to other people play and collaborating with others at the shelter.

“It makes you more social,” he says.

“You get to meet new people and make new friends.”

Playing music also gives clients an outlet for personal expression.

“Being street-entrenched and homeless, many of our clients don’t really feel like they have a voice,” says Swartz.

“Music gives them an opportunity to have a voice again.”

For people struggling with addictions, Music Jam is particularly helpful as a means to reduce stress and, consequently, drug use.

“It’s a great way to relieve stress,” says Dylan Doberstein, a regular participant

“I’m not just here for a place to stay. I’m here to better myself and learning to play guitar is part of that” in the program who has been staying at the shelter for a few months. “Most of the people around here don’t have any way to get rid of their stress besides drugs and alcohol. But give them an instrument to play, and it gives them something to do to occupy their time.”

Swartz agrees. “When you’re homeless or on the verge of homelessness, you’re facing a lot of stress—just finding food each day is a stressful event—and drugs are an easy coping mechanism.

Quitting drugs is also very stressful, and when drugs are your only coping mechanism, it becomes very hard to move through that.

“Introducing or reintroducing music into the lives of people struggling with addictions gives them access to a new coping mechanism,” Swartz says.

“Whereas drugs were the only answer before, now it could be, ‘I’m going to go to the chapel and play the guitar for two

“Being street-entrenched and homeless, many of our clients don’t really feel like they have a voice,” says Nathan Swartz. “Music gives them an opportunity to have a voice again”

hours.’ It makes the quitting process a lot easier.”

Looking ahead, Swartz sees many opportunities for expanding the Music Jam program. In particular, he would like to get the musical community of Victoria more involved by having professional musicians come in and be “musical mentors” at the shelter.

The centre recently put out a call for volunteers and has already had one musician offer to teach a harmonica class this summer.

Swartz also encourages the men to develop their own musical projects. Last summer, a group of participants from Music Jam formed their own band, put on a concert at The Salvation Army’s High Point Community Church in Victoria and then recorded two songs together.

Working in tandem with the broader program at the centre, Swartz says Music Jam has the power to open the door to all kinds of new possibilities.

“I just love seeing these guys come alive,” he says, “and I think the stronger the program gets, the more life we’ll see in the clients. And the more self-esteem they have, the more confident they’ll feel to dream and try to accomplish those dreams.”

Salvationist I April 2013 I 9

Risen Christ, Wounded God An open invitation to see and believe

10 I April 2013 I Salvationist

Photo: © bigstockphoto.com/flashon

E

aster morning is a time for fanfares. It’s an occasion for brass and percussion, at double-forte.

Death has been conquered. We proclaim, “He is risen! He is risen indeed!” Easter morning is a time to rejoice and sing our hallelujahs. It is … except that the first Easter morning really was a time of confusion, even disbelief.

We learn in John’s Gospel that Mary Magdalene was one of the first to visit the tomb of Jesus on that first day of the week. She had been among the group of women who stood near the cross during the moment of Christ’s Crucifixion.

Risking her own safety during the darkness of morning, she arrived at the tomb only to discover that the stone had been removed from its entrance. She did an abrupt about-face to tell Peter and the “disciple Jesus loved.” When she returned to the tomb with them, she looked into it and wept. She assumed the body had been taken. Then she turned around to see someone whom she took to be the gardener, until he spoke her name, “Mary!” Only then did it begin to dawn on her that Jesus was risen and she addressed him, “Teacher!” (see John 20:11-16 NRSV).

By evening of that first day of the week, the risen Jesus had been present among his disciples—at least most of them. Thomas, somehow, was missing.

Had he been overcome by fear? Did he not want to associate with them out of a sense of anger or guilt? Thomas did show up eventually and was told, “We have seen the Lord.” He responded, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe” (see John 20:24-25 NRSV). He would not take their word. He demanded to see for himself. No Easter fanfare for

BY MAJOR RAY HARRIS

Thomas. Not yet.

John’s Gospel picks up the story: “A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them.

Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’

Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ ” (John 20:26-28 NRSV).

The risen Jesus understands Thomas’ hesitancy. He wants Thomas to trust, but he will not coerce belief. The Gospel of John voices this perspective throughout its narrative. For instance, early on in the Gospel an embryonic group of disciples forms around Jesus of Nazareth.

Nathanael is invited by Philip to join them, but Nathanael says, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Some cities have that kind of reputation. (Can anything good come out of Winnipeg?)

Philip responds to Nathanael’s skepticism with an invitation: “Come and see” (see John 1:43-46). Seeing is not believing, but it does contribute to belief. The disciples are invited to come and see for themselves and form their own convictions. As are we.

John’s Gospel opens with a cadence that sounds much like the opening of Genesis: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1 NRSV).

The Word of whom John’s Gospel speaks is Jesus of Nazareth. “And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14 NRSV). From the viewpoint of this Gospel, “No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known” (John 1:18 NRSV).

Once inside the storyline of the life of Jesus of Nazareth, we begin to see him making God known. We see him crossing a forbidden social boundary to meet a Samaritan, who is also a woman. This Word of God, full of grace and truth, asks for a drink of water from the well.

His jarring request leads to a play on words as Jesus begins to talk about “living water.” Only gradually does this conversation lead to the conviction of her neighbours that this Jesus is “the Saviour of the world” (see John 4:7-42 NRSV).

A crowd follows Jesus and becomes hungry (see John 6:1-13). A few loaves

and fish are located. Jesus takes them and gives thanks. The food is distributed to the crowd and the leftover fragments fill 12 baskets. The action leads to conversation and Jesus claims, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35 NRSV).

A man born blind is noticed by Jesus (see John 9). Debate over the role of sin in this disability is swept aside and Jesus instructs the man to wash in the pool of Siloam. He did, “and came back able to see.” There were heated exchanges between the opponents of Jesus and the man because this took place on the Sabbath. He counters their logic with this: “though I was blind, now I see.”

In his own way, he has pointed to “the light of the world” (John 9:5 NRSV).

The wounds of the cross are not obliterated with the Resurrection.

Christ is risen … But the risen Christ stands with marks of the cross inscribed in his hands Israel’s prophets were often critical of its leaders. Ezekiel, in particular, was most critical of its shepherds who fleeced the sheep for their own benefit (see Ezekiel 34). In contrast, Jesus points to himself as the “good shepherd” (see John 10). His relation to the sheep is of a different kind. “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11 NRSV). And so he does.

About that time, Mary and Martha put in a frantic call for Jesus as their brother Lazarus is ill (see John 11:1-45).

Jesus delays his response and Lazarus dies. When Jesus eventually meets up with them he is “deeply moved” by their grief. He asks the sisters where they have put the body of Lazarus and instructs them to “take away the stone.” They are reluctant, but do it. Lazarus comes out and we are pointed in the direction of the one who claims, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25 NRSV).

John’s Gospel invites us to “come and see” the one who is the Word made flesh, full of grace and truth, who makes

the Father known. All of these pointers in the Gospel of John come to a climax with the confession of Thomas in John 20:28 (NRSV), “My Lord and my God!” But notice now what has happened. This confession comes as Thomas looks at the marks of crucifixion. The wounds of the cross are not obliterated with the Resurrection. Christ is risen; he is risen indeed! But the risen Christ stands with marks of the cross inscribed in his hands.

Here’s the thing: Christians cannot understand God apart from the risen Christ. And Christians cannot understand the risen Christ apart from seeing the wounds of the cross in his hands and side.

The God we worship and serve is a wounded God. John of Patmos portrays it this way: “Then I saw between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders a Lamb standing as if it had been slaughtered … ” (Revelation 5:6 NRSV).

Today’s culture reflects Thomas’ attitude. It is not simply that it needs to see in order to believe; it’s what it needs to see. And what it needs to see is a God who engages in the suffering of Sandy Hook Elementary School—that its imprint is left on God. Our culture needs to see a God who also suffers when a young woman is gang-raped on a bus in New Delhi. Dietrich Bonhoeffer understood this when he wrote, “The Bible directs us to God’s powerlessness and suffering; only the suffering God can help.” Christ is indeed risen and he shows us his hands and side. When our world realizes this truth, only then will they echo Thomas’ proclamation, “My Lord and my God!” Now it is time to stand and sing. It is time to let the brass and percussion lead us—especially the trombones! It is time to let voices ring out our praise: Crown him the Lord of love; Behold his hands and side.

Those wounds, yet visible above, In beauty glorified; All hail, redeemer, hail!

For thou hast died for me; Thy praise and glory shall not fail Throughout eternity.

(Mathew Bridges, SASB 156) Major Ray Harris is a retired Salvation Army officer living in Winnipeg. He plays trombone in the Heritage Park Temple Band and enjoys watching episodes of Inspector Lewis.

Salvationist I April 2013 I 11

The Army’s Best-Kept Secret Tranquility and fond memories await at Jackson’s Point Conference Centre

W

hen Majors Ivan and Audrey Rowsell were appointed to Ontario’s Jackson’s Point Conference Centre (JPCC) in June 2010, they were thrilled and excited about the challenges and opportunities.

“In our own home, we enjoy making friends feel comfortable, and having the opportunity to do that on a larger scale is something that has always appealed to us,” says Major Ivan Rowsell.

Over their more than 30 years of officership, the couple had visited JPCC several times and fell in love with the grounds, situated on the shores of Lake

BY MELISSA YUE WALLACE, FEATURES EDITOR Simcoe and owned and operated by The Salvation Army since 1917. The centre offers 20 cottages, executive suites and guest rooms, ample space for chapel and meetings, 156 acres of open fields and mixed forest, hiking trails, a private beach area and lake.

“The highlight for me is the glorious sunsets,” says Major Audrey Rowsell.

“This place offers the ideal backdrop for rest, relaxation and meditation. Many guests tell us they leave here feeling rejuvenated in their spirit.”

The Army first purchased property in Jackson’s Point to operate summer camps. Over time, the focus expanded

(Clockwise from top) Jackson’s Point Conference Centre offers a warm welcome; Mjrs Ivan and Audrey Rowsell in front of the Fireside Chapel; JPCC staff, from left, Rod Hiscock, Corinne Ennis, Meagan Pollard, Mjr Audrey Rowsell, Mjr Ivan Rowsell 12 I April 2013 I Salvationist

A view of the modern-day conference centre from the lake

to include retreats and conferences.

“My parents were divisional youth secretaries, so I spent several summers here,” says Rod Hiscock, manager of operations, of his time at the divisional camp adjacent to the conference centre.

“They were six of the most fun years of my life.”

The centre is often booked for church retreats and conferences and hosts music groups, scrapbookers, family reunions,

schools and businesses.

“When new groups come and say, ‘I didn’t know this place existed. You’re the best-kept secret in all of Ontario,’ it’s great Photograph (circa 1917-1919) of the Salvation Army to hear, but it’s frustrating and camp at Jackson’s Point something we want to change,” says Hiscock.

“A lot of guests come here because Major Audrey Rowsell also hopes they like the wholesome atmosphere,” others will see that JPCC is not just she says. “This is a place where people another conference centre. can meet with each other and God.”

Stories from JPCC guests

Three families share their experiences

Michael and Kendra Martone With three children, soccer games, church commitments and busy jobs, the Martone family looks forward to leaving their home in Rochester, N.Y., to travel to the quiet environment at JPCC every summer.

Kendra’s grandparents, LtColonels Jim and Grace Sloan, took their children and grandchildren to the camp when they were young.

“It’s become a family tradition,” says Michael, whose own family has been to JPCC for 14 summers. “My wife has many fond memories of growing up there and she knows many families in The Salvation Army that we only see once a year at the centre.”

The Martones enjoy paddle boating, staying in rustic cabins, having campfires, swimming and fishing.

“We have competitions to see who

h

e catc with thy a r d n e a K of the d

The Martones

can catch the biggest fish,” laughs Michael. “Usually, it’s my wife.”

What Michael finds so significant about their time at JPCC every year is watching his kids grow up through documented photos and videos.

“We talked to our kids about trying something different and breaking tradition and they were not interested in that,” he says. “They’d rather go to Jackson’s than Disney World.”

Salvationist I April 2013 I 13

Majors Bradley and Susan Donais

The Donais family is no stranger to JPCC. “We’ve been going there for the last 30 years since our kids were babies and our oldest is now 33,” says Major Bradley Donais, executive director of the Hamilton Community Resource Centre, Ont. “We spend a week or two on holiday there and also go up for officer retreats or if my wife, Susan, and I need a study day to be quiet and reflect.

“It’s the peaceful and quiet atmosphere that continues to draw us back.”

The centre has been so meaningful to the Donais’ that their youngest son, Ryan, and his wife got married there last May. “When my son’s fiancée was

describing what her dream wedding would look like, Ryan said, ‘You know what?

That’s the Jackson’s Point Conference Centre!’ ” laughs Major Donais. “She described it to a tee without having been there before.”

Some of Major Donais’ fondest memories also include officer retreats Celebrating lo ve at JPCC at the centre that were a time of revival and refreshment. He explains that everyone would naturally gravitate to the centre’s cozy lounge and fireplace, Donais. “It’s a gem tucked away in networking and sharing experiences. the Georgina area and, for all the years “JPCC is a place that we really we’ve been going, we’re always treated need to be proud of,” says Major with a real sense of care.”

Letters from other guests WE’VE ENJOYED JACKSON’S Point various times.

My husband went there with his parents when he was a boy. At the time, it was only for officers and they have great memories.

We were there for a few years when our children were small and we were stationed close enough to make it viable.

At that time, there were children’s programs in the morning and it made it very restful for us, as well as a safe and fun environment for the children.

There were a couple of years in the early 2000s when we went and did a musical worship segment at the beginning of the morning Bible study every day for a week. That was sponsored by the retreat centre. In the last two years, we have flown back from British Columbia to holiday for a week with all our children and grandchildren (who live fairly close to Toronto). Each family has their own cabin and we enjoy the space, the beach and all the little cousins playing together.

Major Connie Armstrong 14 I April 2013 I Salvationist

JACKSON’S POINT ISN’T about the accommodations, the openness of the front foyer or the kindness of all the staff that touches you when you spend time there.

It’s God’s presence that you feel when you enter. It’s his voice that you hear between the intermittent cracklings of the fire. It’s his hand you feel certain is holding yours, when you stroll the halls or admire your favourite Group of Seven print. Jackson’s Point isn’t a place on a map or a moment in time. It’s a gateway to God. If you call to him, it’s not the wind barrelling off Lake Simcoe that will echo your call back to you in vain; it is his voice that will answer if you truly listen for it.

Ultimately, what you get when you go to Jackson’s Point is a chance to connect with the Lord on so many different levels that you may find yourself desperately trying to control your awe.

Sheri-Lynn Gagnon

Photography

or a tree f g n i t n Pla va-Marie E

of Andrew Buda

Last summer at JPCC was especially significant for the Klenk family.

Ever since their daughter, Eva-Marie Klenk-Asher, was two, the Klenk family from Piqua, Ohio, vacationed at JPCC and have basked in the beauty and safety of its surroundings for the past 18 years.

It was in Lake Simcoe that both of their children learned to swim. And the family easily made friends with other recurring JPCC guests.

“We got to know the staff and officers and all the people who visited,” says Major Robert Klenk. “For the past

eight or nine years, we’ve gone to the centre with the same families and we all stay in the same cottages and it’s a great time.”

That fellowship of friends drew closer together when Eva-Marie passed away in December 2011. The family decided to plant a tree in her honour at the centre and their friends provided support.

“No matter what else was going on in Eva-Marie’s life, this place was her normalcy,” says Major Klenk. “No matter what else we did in the summer or throughout the year, we counted down to our Jackson’s Point trip—everything else centred on that.”

Photo courtesy

Majors Robert and Kathleen Klenk

MISSION MATTERS

I Believe in Transformation A fresh start is possible when you have faith

BY COMMISSIONER BRIAN PEDDLE

M

y grandson, Aleksandr, is fascinated by a line of toys known as Transformers.

Advice from a five-year-old? When in doubt as to what to buy for a surprise, buy a Transformer.

It is an amazing and creative exercise to transform these toys from action figures into cars, trucks and planes. As Aleksandr grows, the Transformers become more complicated and the level of difficulty to construct them outpaces my expertise. I often surrender to his nimble fingers, and in only a few moments, I observe the miracle of transformation.

Implicit in this wonderful word “transformation” is the idea that change is possible. A new creation miracle can be a current reality when accompanied

by God’s grace.

When I first talked to Patricia, I met a woman restored and transformed. Her life didn’t start out that way, though.

Patricia had a troubled childhood and became a mother at an early age. She suffered the loss of three children, two failed marriages marked by abuse and deep devastation, which included jail, psychiatric wards, detox and recovery centres. Patricia lived on the street and started using crack when she was 50.

She became ill and experienced health problems, but felt that no one cared.

When Patricia turned 60, her daughter and two sisters intervened. Six months later, she said a prayer.

“If there is anyone there,” she cried, “if there is a God, please help me.

“That is when my life began to take shape,” says Patricia now. “The past six years have been the best years of my life.”

While visiting the Salvation Army thrift store in Oshawa, Ont., Patricia was invited to join a knitting circle located in the middle of the store. She now meets with the women twice a week, prays daily, attends worship and, best of all, is living a transformed life.

Then there is Ariel. It was late last summer when the doors to the foyer at Winnipeg’s Weetamah Corps building

Patricia found friendship at a thrift store

Ariel left gang life to help others

burst open. Before the receptionist could react, her space was filled with loud voices and an older man holding a younger man by the ear.

“He just broke into my car,” the older man said. “If you don’t do something with him, I am taking him to the police!” An hour later, a deal was struck.

The police weren’t called; instead, Ariel agreed to a number of hours of volunteer service.

To fast-forward Ariel’s story, he stayed in a safe shelter and received smiles, dignity and an eventual job offer.

In the middle of Winnipeg’s winter, you can find Ariel on the Army’s streetvan duty. The supervisor tosses him a new toque displaying the Red Shield facing forward and off they go. At one point he hops out to offer help to a man he knows. The man is nearly frozen.

This former gang member pulls off his new toque and places it carefully over the man’s ears. As Ariel climbs back in the van, he hears a loud and sincere, “Thank you.” Ariel shouts back, “I am with The Salvation Army now. That’s how we roll.” Though it will take a while for Ariel to remove his tattoos—representing his former gang life—inside, real transformation has taken place.

General Linda Bond has asked us to align with the international vision plan: One Army, One Mission, One Message.

I am excited and applaud the fact that under the One Message, she calls The Salvation Army to a commitment to preach, share and live the gospel of transformation.

When you stand at the pulpit or share stories over the backyard fence, your intentionality about the gospel soars when you are passionate about your own transformation and the transformation of others. Why else would we preach or feel the obligation to witness if it wasn’t possible to pass this gift on to others?

I smiled the first time I heard Ariel’s story, summarized in a unique phrase, “I am with The Salvation Army now.

That’s how we roll.”

I also recall a heavily tattooed man named Craig Carter coming into my office in Auckland, New Zealand. He was a career-criminal-turned-Salvationist and still on parole. He tried to convince me to let him visit the jail as a chaplain. His last challenge to me was this: “If God can do this for me despite all I have done, imagine what he can do for the other guys.” One year later he had distributed 600 Bibles and the Crown prosecutor was buying him lunch so he could hear Carter’s story of transformation first-hand.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV).

We still believe transformation is possible, don’t we?

Commissioner Brian Peddle is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Salvationist I April 2013 I 15

POINT COUNTERPOINT

Cultural Integration

Are we doing enough to embrace diversity in our congregations?

BY CADET LEONARD HENG I CAME TO Canada with my family from Singapore in 2006 because I was attracted to the Canadian educational system and wanted to provide more options for my family. There were many challenges with emigrating to a foreign country: coping with weather conditions, housing, transportation, language, culture, people and employment opportunities. We visited churches but somehow felt alienated.

I had the desire to help people who were struggling and marginalized. I was aware that The Salvation Army was a large, social services organization, but did not know that it was also a church. I decided that I would volunteer my services with the Army.

When I first stepped into Toronto’s Scarborough Citadel, I was a little intimidated by those who were in uniform. Otherwise, I felt at home with the entire worship service. The music and hymns were familiar, the sermon was challenging and comforting and the preacher was personable. The people were warm, approachable and welcoming. There was also a good mix of people in the congregation. Eventually, I was asked to be their crosscultural ministries co-ordinator to serve the community, which has a population of close to 600,000 and is home to a range of ethnicities. Fifty-five percent of Scarborough residents are born outside of Canada.

General William Booth valued multiculturalism and, from its early days, the Army’s leaders spoke about winning the world for Jesus. Since its inception, the Army has been concerned with the spiritual and social needs of all people, recognizing that we are made in the image of God. Regardless of our race or nationality, we are all equal in our intrinsic value.

Our social services are offered on a non-discriminatory 16 I April 2013 I Salvationist

basis and our worship services are open to everyone. The Army believes that racial and multicultural integration of believers is possible within the body of Christ because the gospel transcends human culture (see Galatians 3:28). The Army is intentional in its efforts to incorporate different styles of worship to meet the diverse needs of its international community and is at work in 126 countries around the world.

With such a solid reputation and rich heritage from our early leaders, the idea of welcoming people from other cultures has become entrenched in Army culture through the years.

To act otherwise would be unacceptable and diametrically against the trend of Army culture.

After serving as Scarborough Citadel’s cross-cultural ministries co-ordinator, I was asked to be a part of the corps’ leadership committee. My children were actively engaged with the vibrant music ministry, children and youth activities and summer camp. A year later, my wife, Peck Ee, joined the

Photo: © iStockphoto.com/CEFutcher

Yes, my family is a testimony of how the Army welcomes people of all cultures.

corps as the family services worker. As a team, we helped to connect people with activities and programs such as learning English, monthly movie nights and cultural celebrations. We also connected newcomers after worship services and invited them to join Bible study and other groups. Our food bank ministry was a blessing to those who were seeking friendship as well as food, as we introduced them to our multicultural activities.

Through their involvement, people in the community were informed, inspired and connected with the corps. Music teams from different nationalities were invited to share their music

POINT COUNTERPOINT on various occasions at the corps. During our annual picnic and fun fair, we all enjoyed fun and games and shared our unique ethnic dishes.

General Booth offered us four effective steps for outreach: go to where the people are; attract the people; save the people; and involve the people. We are the church and we bring the church to where the people are.

The Army brings a rich variety of cultural expressions to the heart of Christian mission and ministry. In fact, I know of at least 10 Army churches that have adopted the same effective strategies in reaching out to multicultural communities in their own neighbourhoods. Christ died for everyone and that includes newcomers to Canada. We are reminded by our Founder concerning God’s boundless salvation to reach out to everyone: “Go straight for souls and go for the worst.”

Indeed, the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, which transcends all cultures, must be preached to all people.

Cadet Leonard Heng is currently in the Field-Based Tailored Training program at the College for Officer Training and ministers at Toronto’s Agincourt Community Church.

No, we need to be more intentional about helping diverse groups feel at home.

BY CAPTAIN RICK ZELINSKY AS A CHILD, I used to sing, “Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world. Red and yellow, black and white they are precious in his sight….” Back then, my sense of Jesus loving all the children of the world really meant “those children over there”—in places such as Africa and Asia. Growing up in the Ontario suburbs, I never knew kids who were racially different than me, and my church reflected that reality. Times have changed dramatically and with the influx of immigrants and refugees into Canada in recent years, the world is now “here,” on our doorstep.

Some of the questions we ask in the Army are: Are we doing enough to reach people of all cultural backgrounds?

Do some of the Army’s cultural peculiarities get in the way?

As I prepared this article, I asked people in my congregation who were from Iran, China and Korea whether the Army’s military structure and church culture created any barriers for them. While they were curious about the rationale behind the Army’s military structure and symbols—uniforms, flags, ranks—there wasn’t any fear or perceived barriers because of it. In fact, they all shared how this was a normal part of life in their country of origin.

What we perceive as barriers are not always hindrances to people of other cultures. After all, Salvation Army membership is booming in other parts of the world. Perhaps our preoccupation with identity has more to do with keeping up with the changes that are afoot in the wider Western church than it is with attracting newcomers. The reality is that cultural integration is a challenge for all churches and we all need to be sensitive. Perhaps the Army is more acutely aware of it because of the wide range of people who are helped through

our social services ministry.

There are aspects of Army culture that can help us make strong connections with people of diverse backgrounds. For example, hospitality is a traditional value of Salvationism. “A good cup of Army tea” was the tactic my corps sergeant-major used to invite people to stay for fellowship after services. The difficulty we often face is that our hospitality lacks intention.

It is something we do out of tradition rather than with the goal of understanding its importance to newcomers.

I have an Eastern European heritage and, in my culture, hospitality is intentional. My mother and grandmother always cooked too much food in the event that someone would drop by. If friends were over for a visit, there was an expectation they would stay for dinner. As an adult, I have experienced this same intentional hospitality in my interactions with Korean friends, Eritrean neighbours, as well as Mexican and Iranian congregants. Hospitality transcends cultural forms and is a powerful Salvation Army value.

The key to successful integration is intentionality, but this isn’t something that comes to us naturally as a denomination.

Our pragmatism makes us reactionary instead of proactive.

We often rely on doing what we’ve always done rather than planning for the future. Given our increasingly multicultural society, our future must include diverse communities. When was the last time we reviewed our corps’ programming to ensure it reflects the community makeup? When do we stop and ask if we are relevant to our community profile?

One vital program at North Toronto Community Church is our English Conversation Café. This program intentionally reaches out to our culturally diverse neighbourhood, which boasts four English language schools within 100 metres of our doors with an enrolment of 3,000. In many Army corps, music programs can be a strong asset to connect with a culturally diverse constituency as music transcends cultural barriers. The challenge is recognizing the diversity in our midst and seeing it as an opportunity rather than a threat to the status quo.

If our churches are going to be community churches, they should look like their communities. Metrotown Citadel in Burnaby, B.C., recently embraced Chinese New Year as an opportunity for the church to be the centre of community celebrations in a predominantly Chinese neighbourhood.

With the help of their Chinese office assistant, they learned the value parents place on seeing their children engaged in musical endeavours. Staff then responded by putting timbrels in the hands of their Sunday School children and creating a roster of children who play piano and inviting them to play in church.

The families might not understand the theological implications of the sermons, but the staff’s actions reflected an understanding of their family values and an openness to invite them in. As one of the fastest growing congregations in the territory, the church has changed to reflect its place in the community.

If we take the risk of adapting our approach, the Army can be effective in welcoming newcomers into congregational life.

But first we must plan with a broader sense of who we are as a community and how we can worship as a united people of God. Captain Rick Zelinsky is the corps officer of North Toronto Community Church where he ministers with a culturally diverse community to help people connect with God and each other.

Salvationist I April 2013 I 17

My Journey With

Cancer

A survivor chronicles the hurdles and emotions of an unexpected battle

BY LT-COLONEL SANDRA RICE

I

Preparing for the Road Ahead I had walked alongside others with serious health concerns many times over the years. That’s what we do as officers.

It was a comfortable role for me after 30 years of service; in fact, I counted it a privilege. I had, however, never been the patient. For the first time in my life, I felt vulnerable and uncertain of what the future held. Never before had I felt my own mortality so forcefully. Life had changed and would never be the same again.

Immediately after my diagnosis, my sister encouraged me to read Psalm 62.

Yes, I truly believed with the psalmist that God was my rock and salvation, but would I prove the promise that “I would not be shaken”?

I was also directed to A Place of Healing, a book by Joni Eareckson Tada.

As one who had journeyed through “deep waters” herself, Eareckson Tada wrote candidly about her experience of pain, confusion, vulnerability, fear, loneliness and isolation in a manner that resonated with me. She also bore witness to Christ’s faithfulness in the midst of her suffering and I found myself praying that God would enable me to walk this path in a way that honoured him.

A New Reality I received my diagnosis in the final days 18 I April 2013 I Salvationist

Photo: Timothy Cheng

t was an ordinary day; a good day.

I had just arrived home in Toronto after spending a day with cadets and staff at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg when the phone rang. I heard my doctor’s voice on the line. I had recently undergone a battery of tests, but expected nothing but a positive report.

“Sandra, we have the results of your tests. Are you sitting down?”

Thus began my unexpected journey with breast cancer.

Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice back at the office

of my brother Wayne’s life. He was losing his battle with cancer and I anticipated a call to return to Newfoundland at any moment. As my cancer was quite invasive, my medical team recommended an aggressive treatment regimen that was to commence with surgery in early December 2011. I was grateful that I had just recently visited Wayne and we were able to spend meaningful moments together. While my heart’s desire was to be with my family for the final goodbye, the coming days were no longer mine to control. I was compelled to trust

God for what lay ahead—and his timing was perfect. Wayne passed away on November 25 and I was able to join the family for his funeral. I returned home before the scheduled date of my surgery with the added blessing of the company of my sister, Lt-Colonel Myra Pritchett.

Her time and care over the next several weeks were a special gift that will ever be appreciated.

This was an especially difficult time for my parents. My heart ached for them, knowing they remained in Newfoundland to grieve the passing of

their only son with the added concern of my well-being. I will never know the full extent of their suffering as they showered me with love and attention from afar and silently carried their sorrow in order to encourage and bolster my spirit for the days ahead. Reciprocally, I mustered my strength and courage when speaking with them in order to protect them from the reality and uncertainty of what was to come.

The first surgery was unsuccessful and within two weeks I was readmitted to the hospital for further surgery and spent Christmas quietly recovering. In the new year, I received an encouraging word that the second surgery was more successful.

In February, I began chemotherapy treatments and soon learned that each day would bring the “unexpected” and “unpredictable.” Unfortunately, I had an adverse reaction to the first treatment and found myself in the emergency room. Truthfully, the reaction was so severe that I don’t remember much of this part of the journey except that it was shared by my friend who accompanied me. I am grateful that the medical team was able to adjust my dosage so that the remaining rounds were “tolerable,” albeit unpleasant.

By the second week, I lost my hair.

I suspected it would come, but it happened one morning with little warning.

By noon, I had lost it all. I confess this was one of the more shocking moments for me—thus deserving of at least one afternoon at home (smile)! For me this became an ever-present reminder that I had cancer. I had purchased a wig in preparation, but found myself very self-conscious and uncomfortable so my mother lovingly knitted me several “chemo caps.” There were a variety of colours—some even co-ordinated with my uniform! It took several weeks to find the courage to be seen without the wig or cap, but “comfort” eventually overtook “pride” and I spent the early summer without any covering.

Sixteen treatments of radiation would follow chemotherapy, which would then be followed by a five-year regimen of oral medication.

I am now 18 months beyond that original diagnosis. My hair has grown back—and, surprisingly, I bemoan the fact that it now takes longer to get ready for work and I’m spending money on haircuts again. My body has been permanently changed. My energy level

Showered with blessings at the hospital

Lovingly knitted chemotherapy caps, a prayer shawl and quilt provided comfort throughout the journey

is still adjusting. I have aches in joints that I never experienced before. I have known sickness to such a degree that I questioned whether I had the strength to persevere with treatment. I have wondered what impact my health may have on my officership. I have worried about the impact of my sickness on those I love.

This, however, is only part of my journey.

Faith and Friendship In the midst of the suffering, I have been showered with blessings.

I drew strength from the courage of my fellow sojourners. I had the privilege of passing many hours in the company of women walking a similar path to mine as we sat together for treatments. My

ordeal pales in the face of others, but I found in these women a courage and zest for life that was inspiring.

I received exceptional support from my health-care team which continues to this day. It is humbling for one as independent as me to release control to others, yet the team has not only been professional, but also personal, assuring that I am always treated with dignity.

I have been overwhelmed by the encouragement and care from the community of believers. Love took on many forms. My colleagues stepped into the gap at the office, taking on additional work without hesitation, always quick to offer assistance in any way needed.

There were surprise arrivals of a beautiful quilt and prayer shawl to keep me warm during treatment. Meals were delivered to my door. Flowers and fruit baskets arrived to cheer me as I recuperated at home. Notes, e-mails, phone calls and cards arrived at just the right moment when encouragement was needed. Regardless of the circumstances of the day, I was continuously reminded that I was blanketed in prayer. Family and friends made themselves available to walk the journey with me. These gifts were not “coincidental.”

I have a deeper appreciation for the value of each moment of my life. I understand more personally that “though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). I am so grateful for the reminder that, “Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken” (Psalm 62:2).

While cancer has been unexpected and I acknowledge that each person’s story is unique, God is using my own journey to broaden my perspective on life, deepen my sensitivity to the journey of others and strengthen my trust in him.

With the songwriter, my heart sings: Find rest my soul, in Christ alone.

Know his power, in quietness and trust.

When the oceans rise and thunders roar I will soar with you, above the storm.

Father, you are king over the flood.

I will be still, and know you are God. (Still, written by Reuben Morgan from Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia) Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice is the secretary for personnel of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Salvationist I April 2013 I 19

Caught in a Downward Spiral

Addicted to gambling, Bonnie Bonnetta could not find peace, until a surprising discovery led her to The Salvation Army

Photo: © Anton Balazh, shutterstock.com

BY KRISTIN FRYER, STAFF WRITER

I

t was almost too easy. As her company’s payroll administrator, Bonnie Bonnetta could quietly divert funds into her own bank account. Right or wrong didn’t enter into the equation— she needed the money so she could keep gambling.

“I always said, ‘I’ll pay it back next week,’ but it didn’t happen,” she says.

By the time she was caught, Bonnetta had stolen more than $100,000 from her employer.

20 I April 2013 I Salvationist

“Sitting in jail, I knew that I had done wrong and I deserved to be there,” she says. “And I knew that I had to turn my life around.”

Lonely Heart Growing up, Bonnetta’s home life was anything but stable. When she was born in 1946, her father was in jail, leaving her mother alone to take care of two young children. This early abandonment was just the beginning.

“My father was not dependable. You never knew if he was going to have a job from week to week, or if he was going to gamble or drink the money away,” she says. “I thought it was normal. My parents hung out with people who were the same, so I didn’t know any different.”

To compensate for her father’s frequent bouts of unemployment, Bonnetta’s mother went to work, but it wasn’t enough to keep the family out of poverty. When Bonnetta’s younger sister was born, their parents sent her older brother, then five years old, to live with their grandmother because they could not afford to feed three children.

Both of Bonnetta’s parents had violent tempers—especially when they were drinking—but it was her father she feared most.

“We were disciplined severely, usually with a fist,” she says. “With me, it was either my arm or stomach—somewhere where nobody was going to see the bruises—but he hit my mother in the face.”

Usually, her father came after her if she hadn’t done her chores, but sometimes she just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“You learned to dodge. You knew that if he came home and was drunk, you had to disappear,” she remembers.

“I had a lock on my bedroom door. He would pound on the door, and he could have broken it down, but my mother would get in the way and she would take the abuse.”

As she grew older, the abuse started to take its toll, leaving Bonnetta with emotional and physical scars.

“I became very withdrawn and introverted, and I didn’t make friends easily,” she says. “I didn’t want anybody to see what my family was like.”

Dream Home At 19 years old, Bonnetta was married, finally escaping the turmoil of living with her parents and sister.

They had been dating for almost five years. In that time, a whole new world had opened up for Bonnetta. “His was a totally different, normal family,” she says. “There was no fighting, no abuse.

I wondered, ‘Is this what life is really supposed to be like?’ ” Her husband’s mother and father greeted her with open arms. “It was like having a new family,” she adds.

After a year of being married, she and her husband bought a brand-new

house and watched it being built from the ground up. “We thought we’d died and gone to heaven,” she says. “It felt so good to own something, to look after it.”

Even still, traces of her upbringing remained. It was years before Bonnetta felt completely at ease in her marriage.

“For a long time, if my husband got angry and raised his voice, I would cower,” she says. “It was a gut reaction. I would shut right down and start to cry.”

Six years after she was married, Bonnetta had a daughter and then a son another five years after that. Becoming a parent was a very healing experience for Bonnetta, as she created a family that was entirely different from the one she grew up in.

“My children were my world,” she says. “I put everything into them.”

first so that her husband wouldn’t find the bills. Finally, there was no money left. Desperate, she began stealing money from her workplace.

“When it got to the point where I knew I could never pay it back, I realized that the only way I could stop taking the money was to quit,” she says.

After she left, it wasn’t long before her employer discovered the theft.

As she came to grips with the seriousness of her actions, Bonnetta’s depression went haywire again and she tried to commit suicide with a cocktail of prescription drugs and alcohol. She is thankful now that her attempt was unsuccessful.

Bonnetta was sentenced to a year in prison for her crime but served seven weeks because she couldn’t get the counselling she needed in prison.

Though divorced from her husband, she

volunteering. Bonnetta was welcomed in and soon was volunteering in the office two days a week.

On Thursdays, the corps held devotions, which all staff were invited to attend. The fourth time she attended, Bonnetta had a life-changing experience.

“Captain Jim Mercer, the corps officer, was reading from the Bible, and all of the sudden it hit me: I felt this real peace and joy come over me,” she says.

After devotions, she shared her story with Captain Mercer and told him what had just happened.

“I said to him, ‘I came here because I found my dedication certificate, and I know God’s telling me something,’ ” she says. “ ‘He’s telling me I have to be here.’ ” Bonnetta started going to church every week and joined a Bible study.

After attending the corps for two years, Losing Everything she decided to become a soldier With two healthy children, a lovin August 2012. ing husband and a satisfying job “I wanted to become a solas a clerk at the local municidier because I felt that I needed pality, Bonnetta’s life was better to fully belong—just coming to than anything she could have church wasn’t enough,” she says. imagined growing up.

The day she received her “I was feeling very secure,” Soldier’s Covenant was signifishe says. “I loved my family cant, not only because she was and I loved the lifestyle that we officially joining the Army, but had.” But in 1996, that security also because it was the first time was taken from Bonnetta when, she gave her testimony. after 16 years of working at the “I was ready to tell the conmunicipality, she was suddenly gregation what I had done, what let go. She was devastated.

I had gone through,” she says.

“I was 50 years old,” she says. Bonnie Bonnetta with her corps officers, Cpts Jim and Michelle Mercer “I was nervous because I didn’t “I thought, ‘Who’s going to hire know how they would respond, me?’ I went into a very bad depression received invaluable support from her but they were fantastic. So many people and my husband didn’t know how to two children, who helped her through came up to me afterward and said they help me.” this darkest period. were moved by my story.”

And just when Bonnetta was at her “They stood by me,” she says. “They most vulnerable, a new casino opened were my saving grace.”

Hope in Christ near her home. “I started going to the The same month she became a soldier, casino just to fill time, and then it Rededication Bonnetta was diagnosed with breast canbecame my comfort zone,” she recalls.

Throughout her life, Bonnetta had very cer. In October, she underwent surgery “I could go there and nobody would little experience with church—she went to have the lump removed; the following talk to me. My husband wasn’t there to a few times with a friend as a teenager month, she was facing a triple bypass. say, ‘What are you doing? Get yourself just to get away from her family. But Despite this unexpected turn in her out there and get a job.’ I could go there after she came home from prison, she health, Bonnetta felt at peace. and be nobody.” made an astonishing discovery: as a “I went through both surgeries knowEventually, Bonnetta did find a new child, Bonnetta had been dedicated at ing that I was in God’s hands, and he job, but by that time, the gambling had the Long Branch Corps in Toronto (now was going to look after me,” she says. a hold on her.

Lakeshore Community Church). She For the next year, Bonnetta will “I would stop in for an hour or two came across the dedication certificate undergo chemo treatments every three on the way home from work,” she says. while going through some old papers. weeks, followed by intense radiation “Most of the time, my husband didn’t “When I found it, I thought, ‘Maybe therapy—a challenge she takes in stride. know where I was—I always had an there’s someone at The Salvation Army “Three years ago, I never would have excuse.” that I can talk to,’ ” she remembers. She been able to deal with this,” she says.

Bonnetta acquired multiple credit called the corps in Orillia, Ont., and “I wasn’t strong before but I am now, cards, spending more and more while told the family services co-ordinator, and I’m strong because I have Christ making sure that she got to the mailbox Kathy Aitken, that she was interested in in my life.”

Salvationist I April 2013 I 21

MINISTRY IN ACTION

The Fantastic Five

These dedicated volunteers are the heart and soul of Uxbridge Family Services

BY KEN RAMSTEAD, EDITOR, FAITH & FRIENDS AND FOI & VIE

B Barb Johnson

Beverly Northeast

Heather McKinnon

Susan Torrance

Derek Clark 22 I April 2013 I Salvationist

everly Northeast had an epiphany while giving a talk to the Rotary Club of Uxbridge, Ont. As the deputy mayor and chairperson of The Salvation Army’s Uxbridge Family Services (UFS) detailed the many programs provided by the five-person staff, a man asked what percentage of their operating budget went toward salaries and administration.

“I realized only then that the five of us who staff UFS are all volunteers,” she says. “None of us—myself, treasurer Sue Torrance, camp director Heather McKinnon, street director Derek Clark and director Barb Johnson—are paid one thin dime for all that we do. And we like it like that!”

A Question of Respect Up until the early 1990s, UFS was staffed by one volunteer and a Salvation Army major.

“This was when I was recruited as a volunteer secretary,” says Northeast.

“But the major was soon transferred to a posting in Toronto and the woman retired, so I took over as chairperson of the Uxbridge unit.”

Northeast operated the unit by herself for quite a while but gradually the nucleus of what is now the staff formed.

All four individuals volunteered for different reasons but at the core of each was The Salvation Army.

During a rough patch in his life, Clark live on the street and was helped

by The Salvation Army. He remembered their kindness and when the Uxbridge unit moved in next door to where he lived, promptly offered his services.

McKinnon, a mother of two, wanted to do something outside the home and gravitated to the camping aspect as her grandfather had run a similar camp when she was young.

When UFS’s treasurer moved away, Torrance offered to handle the finances and never left. Her father-in-law served in the navy during the Second World War and never forgot what The Salvation Army did for him and countless other

servicemen and women.

And Johnson was moved to help because she appreciated that the Army had helped out her brother over the years when he was in trouble with the law.

What is especially unique about the staff is that none of them are Salvationists or even attend an Army church.

“We’ve adopted The Salvation Army, in a way,” smiles Northeast, “but people only adopt what they respect and that is how we all feel. We respect the Army, and we respect how society respects the Army.”

Give and Take UFS casts a wide net in the Lake Simcoe area, representing three different communities: Uxbridge Township with 20,000 people, Port Perry with 28,000 and Brock Township with 18,000.

While UFS offers a myriad of programs and services, they only offer what is desperately needed, and they do not duplicate programs operated by other groups.

For instance, The Salvation Army does not operate a food bank out of Uxbridge because the surrounding communities already have existing ones.

They also do not run a second-hand clothing store because there is one already supporting the local hospital.

Unofficial reciprocity agreements are in place, however.

“We take any clothing donated to The Salvation Army to that store, where we know it will be put to good use,” says Northeast, “and when our clients need clothes, they are supplied to us by the store in turn.”

Unsung Gestures There are dozens of services offered by UFS but a few are particularly close to the staff’s hearts.

“We offer a snow removal program for seniors who are able to stay in their homes but cannot shovel,” says Northeast. “It helps them maintain their independence and self-respect.”

“As a retired teacher, I am proud that

MINISTRY IN ACTION we offer a back-to-school backpack program, which we distribute to children of families in need,” says Johnson. “And our apple-a-day program, which we coordinate with local farms, provides some schoolkids with their only nourishing snack of the day.”

“Our Jackson’s Point summer-camp program helps dozens of kids each year grow as individuals, meet new friends and enjoy the outdoors,” states McKinnon.

“We co-ordinate tutoring classes, which are held at the library,” says Torrance.

“And we have a lunch program that provides a nourishing meal for children who would have to do without,” continues Northeast.

A bag lunch may not seem like much—but for one child, it was instrumental in helping alert the school that her family was in trouble.

“We got in touch with the family and found that there were a lot of problems there, and we were able to bring in professionals who dealt with the mentalhealth issues that were going on,” says

“When I have a senior who comes into the office and he is fighting back tears because it’s the first time in his life he’s had to ask for help, how can you not be moved?”

Northeast, “and they were successfully resolved.”

“The Army is held in a very high position in conversations that you have with anyone in the community,” she continues. UFS is supported by dozens of

businesses in the area who donate money and labour. But ultimately it comes down to unsung gestures such as the $5 bill that was dropped into the mail slot at UFS each week.

“It’s those actions that speak the loudest for me,” Northeast sums up.

“They do that because they know somebody cares.”

Satisfaction Guaranteed At the end of the day, however, UFS wouldn’t be what it is without the quintet of dedicated volunteers.

“We couldn’t do what we do without everybody here,” asserts Northeast.

“It isn’t a job,” she believes. “It’s something we do because we enjoy doing it.

“When I have a senior who comes in to the office and says his daughter and family have had to move back with him but he can’t afford to feed them because his pension won’t go that far, and he is fighting back tears because it’s the first time in his life he’s had to ask for help, how can you not be moved? Having the privilege to assist him and help him maintain his dignity is priceless.”

Salvationist I April 2013 I 23

CROSS CULTURE

IN THE NEWS

Government Launches New Religious Freedom Office

Photo: www.pmg.gc.ca

Dean of Christian college appointed office’s ambassador The federal government has established a new Office of Religious Freedom, which will be dedicated to promoting freedom of religion or belief around the world. The office will be led by Dr. Andrew Bennett, dean of Augustine College, a Christian liberal arts college in Ottawa.

“Around the world, violations of religious freedom are widespread, and they are increasing,” said Prime Minister Stephen Harper at a launch event held at a Toronto mosque.

“Dr. Bennett will monitor religious freedom around the world, he will promote it as a key objective of Canadian foreign policy, and Dr. Bennett will help ensure that the protection of religious freedom informs the policies and programs of the Government of Canada.”

The office will focus on advocacy, analysis, policy development and programming. Its activities will centre on countries or situations where there is evidence of “egregious violations” of the right to freedom of religion—including Prime Minister Stephen Harper announviolence, hatred and sysces the establishment of a new Office of temic discrimination.

Religious Freedom

Pro-Life Crusader Justin Bieber’s mother produces short film As the mother of pop star Justin Bieber, Pattie Mallette has become a celebrity by extension. And now she’s using that fame to promote pro-life values through a new short film, Crescendo.

The film is a fundraising project which aims to raise $10 million for American pregnancy centres. If enough money is raised, the film will be screened at pregnancy centres around the world. Supporters of the Pattie Mallette project can screen the film for a cost of $700 for a public screening or $2,500 for a theatre version.

The film’s executive producer, Mallette says she wants Crescendo to “encourage young women all over the world, just like me, to let them know that there is a place to go, people who will take care of you and a safe home to live in if you are pregnant and think you have nowhere else to turn.”

Mallette, who stayed at a Salvation Army shelter in London, Ont., while pregnant with Bieber, has admitted that, had she not been a Christian, she would have had an abortion.

24 I April 2013 I Salvationist

IN REVIEW

Unfinished

BY RICHARD STEARNS Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he gave his disciples one final command: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15). But as Richard Stearns writes in his new book, Unfinished, that revolutionary mission has yet to be accomplished.

Unfinished challenges readers to take up that task again, to understand what God is doing in the world and how we fit in. “If God is the author of the bigger story within which our own stories take place,” Stearns writes, “then we can only find the deepest meaning and purpose of our lives when we

discover the role he uniquely created for us to play.”

In this book, Stearns aims to help readers discover that role and how our faith should affect our careers, money, families and lives—to discover what the Great Commission means for Christians today.

Joni and Ken: An Untold Love Story

BY KEN AND JONI EARECKSON TADA Many in the Christian community are familiar with the story of Joni Eareckson Tada. At 17, she became a quadriplegic after she dove in shallow water. Though she struggled with depression and doubt while undergoing rehabilitation, Eareckson Tada learned to paint with her mouth, becoming an artist and later an author, speaker and advocate for the disabled.

Much of her life story is chronicled in her bestselling autobiography, Joni. In Joni and Ken, she and her husband, Ken Tada, tell their story as a couple who have experienced the reality of “in sickness and in health.”

Tada thought he knew what he was getting into when they married, but

as the years went by, the responsibility of caring for her overwhelmed him, sending him into a severe depression. Though committed to their relationship, they found themselves living parallel, but separate, lives as they drifted apart emotionally.

When she was diagnosed with cancer, she wondered if it would be the final blow.

Joni and Ken tells how they fought back against these difficulties and how, by the grace of God, they have learned not only to survive, but thrive in their marriage.

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

ENROLMENTS AND RECOGNITION

K EN T V I L L E , N . S . — Exciting things are happening at Kentville CC, with 17 junior soldiers being enrolled.

Sharing in the happy occasion are Mjrs Ross and Doreen Grandy, COs; JSS Natalia Wheaton; Mjrs Douglas and Jean Hefford, DC and DDWM, Maritime Div; Mervin Misner, holding the flag.

TORONTO—Aux-Cpts Alain Suamunu-Luasu and Alice Ludiazo-Nsona, COs, are pleased to welcome nine new soldiers, hailing from such countries as Kenya, Ghana, Saint Lucia, Nigeria and Jamaica, to the corps family at Yorkwoods CC.

SASKATOON—Saskatoon Temple Band was recognized for 50 years of service with the corps’ community care ministries. Taking part in the presentation of the certificate are, from left, Mjr Dorothy Munday; Vi Hawkins, CCM leader; Mel Robinson, retired bandmaster; Vienna Sawatzky, bandmaster; Mjr Don Law, CO.

FREDERICTON— Robert Harding is enrolled as a soldier at Fredericton CC. With him are Mjrs Larry and Judy Goudie, COs, and CSM Betty Young.

GANDER, N.L.—During a recent junior soldier/junior action renewal Sunday, Abigail Boyde was enrolled as a junior soldier. From left, Cpts Cory and Pamela Pinksen, COs; Kiri Bungay, Abigail Boyde and Caitlyn Adams, junior soldiers; JSS Mary Bungay; ACSM Cherie Green; Dan Kelly, special guest.

The Salvation Army Portage La Prairie

Note Revised Dates: October 9-23, 2013

125th Anniversary

Celebrate Your Faith in the LANDS of the BIBLE Three-day Greek Islands cruise, visit Athens, Israel and Petra, Jordan Hosted by Majors Woody and Sharon Hale Brochures available. wshale@sympatico.ca; 905-440-4378 “The moment we arrived in Israel, any concerns of our safety quickly faded.

No words can express the feelings and emotions as we walked the roads that Jesus walked. It is not words and stories anymore—it’s real. We were there!”—E. Drodge, Churchill, Man.

May 25th-26th, 2013 Special Guests: Majors Brad and Mary Smith & Heritage Park Temple Band from Winnipeg, Manitoba Saturday, May 25th at 6:30pm: Celebration Concert Sunday, May 26th at 10:30am: Worship Service Greetings from former Officers and friends can be sent to: Peter_Robinson@can.salvationarmy.org or Box 476 Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, R1N 3B7

Salvationist I April 2013 I 25

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

Flag Still Flies at Hillcrest LONDON, ONT. —In October 1991, London East Corps moved into a new corps building as the Hillcrest Corps, beginning a new chapter in the history of the congregation. Less than 12 years later, the building was lost to a devastating fire caused by an arson attack. Doubts about the corps’ future surfaced as a merger with a neighbouring corps was discussed, but the soldiers, adherents and friends fought hard for its survival—and they succeeded. Regular activities continued, temporarily housed in

the gym at the nearby Salvation Army London Village. The building was reconstructed and in September 2004, Hillcrest CC reopened its doors to the community. “Fire of a different kind is currently consuming Hillcrest CC,” says Lt Darren Woods, CO. “Tangible evidence of the Holy Spirit at work is being seen.” The corps has engaged in significant outreach activity over the past year, including the establishment of a successful Friday night youth program. And for only the third time in the history of Hillcrest CC, new soldiers and adherents have been enrolled.

“It is an historic occasion to have 11 new people, including five soldiers and six adherents, welcomed into membership at one time,” says Lt Woods.

Five soldiers and six adherents are welcomed at Hillcrest CC by Lts Darren and Danette Woods, COs, and Mjr Glenda Davis, AC, Ont. GL Div

The Salvation Army Park Street Citadel

75th Corps Anniversary May 11-12, 2013 Special Guests:

Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle Territorial Leaders

Greetings from former officers and friends can be sent to 27 Park Street, Grand Falls-Windsor NL A2B 1C7 or Ivy_Gardner@can.salvationarmy.org

Army Supports Ecumenical Concert Music groups from several churches in the Greater Toronto Area, including The Salvation Army, will come together to present The Rhythm of the Rock in support of The Canadian Council of Churches (CCC). The evening of sacred music, organized by the CCC, will take place at Toronto’s Metropolitan United Church on Wednesday, May 15 (see page 2 for further information).

“The Canadian Staff Band and St. Michael’s Choir School will be amongst the performers,” says Major Jim Champ, the Army’s editor-in-chief and president of the CCC. “The concert will provide a wonderful opportunity for the Christian community to come together in a spirit of unity and celebrate its diversity of gifts through music,” says Rev. Dr. Karen Hamilton, general secretary of the CCC. The CCC is the largest ecumenical body in Canada representing 25 churches of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Protestant and Evangelical traditions including The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army St. Thomas Citadel

130th Anniversary Celebrations April 19-21, 2013 Special Guests:

Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle Territorial Leaders

North York Temple Band and Timbrels Supported by:

Lt-Colonel Lee and Deborah Graves

Divisional Leaders, Ontario Great Lakes Division

On This Rock I Will Build My Church (Matthew 16:18) The Salvation Army, 380 Elm Street, St. Thomas ON N5R 1K1 Phone: 519-631-6202; e-mail: sastthomas@bellnet.ca

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26 I April 2013 I Salvationist

or visit salvationist.ca/subscribe to order

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

TRIBUTES LANGLEY, B.C.—Floyd and Doreen (Dodie) Christiansen were promoted to glory within 12 days of each other in their 73rd year of marriage. Floyd was raised in Steveston, B.C., and lived the remainder of his life in the Vancouver area. He became a Salvationist in adult life and was the corps sergeant-major at New Westminster Citadel, B.C., for four decades.

A loyal supporter of his corps officers, Floyd was an advocate for all the members of the congregation, not allowing anyone to be marginalized.

He routinely telephoned absentees and visited the sick. After many years in the bakery industry, Floyd served for 15 years as the assistant administrator of the House of Concord with a focus on young offenders and was known for his caring and compassionate leadership. This position was a calling for Floyd and many residents remained in contact with him after being discharged from the program. A lifelong Salvationist, Dodie was born in Portage la Prairie, Man., and then moved to the west coast where she met Floyd while ice skating. She was a quiet support partner in their Christian endeavours and served as a Sunday school primary teacher and home league secretary. Dodie supported the House of Concord program by mending clothes for the boys, teaching them leatherwork and being a mother figure for them. In their later years, transportation difficulties prompted Floyd and Dodie to transfer from New Westminster Citadel to British Columbia’s Langley South—The Salvation Army Gateway of Hope.

Known for their friendliness and generosity, they are survived by four children, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

SAULT STE MARIE, ONT.—Earl Slagel was born in Sault Ste Marie in 1948 and started attending Steelton Corps at the age of 12. He took an immediate interest in the church and started taking lessons from Bandmaster Bill Towers. Earl was hooked and became involved in the corps, where he spent most of his time and loved being with the young people. He enjoyed attending music camp at the Army’s divisional Camp Newport. Earl enjoyed church life to the fullest and served as corps treasurer, member of the corps council and bandsman. Earl loved banding and faithfully took his bass to local nursing homes at Christmastime. He enjoyed helping with the women’s ministry Christmas dinner, working with the Camp at Home children’s program and participating in the men’s fellowship group. A willing volunteer, Earl assisted with many corps projects. Being a grandfather was one of Earl’s great loves and he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He is remembered by his wife, Marion; sons Shane (Melody) and Brad (Kerith); stepsons Philip and Scott Woolsey; grandchildren Jaelyn, Brennen, Camden and Nathan; brother, Allen (Bev); sisters Vi Tinsley (Ron) and Pauline Mclarty; many nieces and nephews.

CALGARY—Major Lewis George Ashwell was born in Viking, Alta., in 1925 as the fourth of six children. The family moved to Ladysmith, B.C., in 1937 and shortly after graduating from high school, Lewis joined the air force and trained to be an air gunner. Following his military service, Lewis studied geological engineering and worked in this field for a number of years. He became a Christian in Thompson, Man., and feeling called by God, entered the College for Officer Training in Toronto. While there he met his future wife, Eileen Round, from Sarnia, Ont. After training, they were married and had two sons, Bram and Paul. Together they served in Yorkton, Sask., Burwash, Ont., Ottawa, Montreal, Winnipeg, Victoria and Chilliwack, B.C. For most of his officership, Lewis worked in the correctional field, ministering to men and women in prison and helping them to keep their lives on track once they had been released. Lewis regularly greeted visitors to the various corps he attended to ensure that everyone felt welcome. He often sat with them and invited them to his family’s home for dinner following the service.

He is remembered as a kind, selfless and generous human being who excelled in the ministry of “love thy neighbour.” Lewis is remembered by his sons Bram and Paul; daughter-in-law, Linda; grandchildren Brandon and Brooklyn; brother, Bill; sisters Molly and Jean.

DEER LAKE, N.L.—Martha Serena Janes (nee Bignell) was born in Leading Tickles, N.L., raised in Badger, N.L., and later moved to Deer Lake where she met and married her husband, James Roland Janes. The couple had a wonderful life together for 67 years until James’ death in 2008. Martha was a homemaker who loved to entertain with her cooking and baking, and is remembered as a loving mother to her five children. Martha was a dedicated and lifelong church member and a member of the home league for more than 40 years. Left with fond and loving memories and to celebrate her life are her children Winston (Louise), Catherine (Dennis) Seabrook, Marilyn (Bud) MacDonald, Robert (Wanda) and Rick (Tara); 11 grandchildren; 20 greatgrandchildren; sisters Jean Noel and Dorothy Andrews; sisters-in-law Helen Bignell, Naomi (Ronald) Yates, Elizabeth Rumbolt, Effie Coderre and Jessie (Newman) Neal; brother-in-law, Charles Janes; a large circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

WINNIPEG—Major Gordon Grice was born in Windsor, Ont., in 1923. He was commissioned in 1953 in the Heralds Session. In 1955 he married Lieutenant Violet Woodgate and together they ministered at various corps appointments including Kamloops, Nelson and Prince George, B.C, Dauphin, Man., Hamilton and Collingwood, Ont., and Vancouver. Gordon’s last years of officership were spent as administrator at the Eventide Home in Saskatoon and Golden West Lodge in Winnipeg. After retirement, he served as chaplain for a number of years at Golden West Lodge. He is remembered for his kindness, pastoral care ministry, sense of humour and commitment to pray for others.

Gordon will be remembered by his wife, Violet; sons David (Lynn) and Donald; grandchildren David (Allison), Jeremy and Rebecca; sisters Joan and Janet (Miron); sister-in-law, Jean; numerous nieces and nephews.

Salvationist will print brief tributes, at no cost, as space permits. They should be received within two months of the promotion to glory and include: community where the individual resided; conversion to Christ; corps involvement; Christian ministry and survivors. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Digital photos in TIFF or high resolution JPEG format are acceptable. Clear, original photos may be submitted and will be returned. Send to Salvationist, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4 or e-mail salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org.

GAZETTE

TERRITORIAL Appointments Cpts Mark/Wendy Crabb, Oakville CC, Ont. GL Div; Mjrs Neil/ Merrilee Evenden, Collingwood CC, Ont. CE Div; Cpt Betty Lessard, community ministries officer, Montreal Booth Centre, Que. Div; Cpt Judi Wickens, community ministries officer, Erin Mills, Mississauga, Ont. CE Div (designation change) Retirements Mjr Martin McCarter, out of Benoni, South Africa. Last appointment: divisional secretary for business administration, Alta. & N.T. Div; Mjr Joan McCarter, out of Southend-on-Sea, England. Last appointment: divisional services to seniors secretary, Alta. & N.T. Div Promoted to glory Mrs Brg Caroline Pike, from St. John’s, N.L., Jan 29; Brg Cyril Gillingham, from Windsor, Ont., Feb 10

CALENDAR

Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle Apr 3-6 Que. Div; Apr 11-12 Pre-confirmation Institute, JPCC; Apr 16-24 territorial review, THQ, Toronto; Apr 26-28 spring convocation, Booth University College, Winnipeg Colonels Floyd and Tracey Tidd Apr 3-5 divisional review, N.L. Div; Apr 20-21 Que. Div General and Mrs Bramwell Tillsley (Rtd) Apr 19-22 Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Canadian Staff Band Apr 6-7 Columbus, Ohio Salvationist I April 2013 I 27

THE STORYTELLER

Sowing Good Seed

Digging at the root of Jesus’ stories

Photo: © iStockphoto.com/Cjp

BY MAJOR FRED ASH

A homeowner went out to promote his yard sale. As he was putting up posters, some fell to the ground and were washed down the gutter. Some were in windy places and were soon blown away. Some posters were hung along busy sidewalks and were soon covered by other posters and left unseen. Still other posters were placed in good neighbourhoods where they sparked interest and produced customers—some 30, 60 and even 100 times the number of posters put up. Whoever can read, let him read with understanding.

T

he simplest definition I know of the word “parable” is that it is “an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.”

Telling such stories was one of Jesus’ favourite teaching techniques. Storytelling was the television of the ancient world. People crowded around a good storyteller and listened with bated breath to his every word. He painted dramatic word pictures and their imaginations filled in the details and colours. With the story firmly planted in their heads they could recount it almost word for word to their friends and family.

Some stories were told simply to entertain. Others were to inspire patriotism or to glorify a country’s heroes. But the best stories—the kind that Jesus told—were meant to teach spiritual truth that would change people’s lives.

28 I April 2013 I Salvationist

The first lesson in storytelling is to start where your listeners are. You have to connect with the culture around you. Jesus lived in an agrarian culture, one in which people depended on growing crops and raising animals to survive. Consequently, when Jesus told stories, they were about farmers sowing seeds, wheat and weeds, sheep and goats, and fruit trees and vineyards.

So we read of him talking to his neighbours like this: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, 60 or 30 times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear” (Matthew 13:3-9).

If the people of ancient Israel lived as we do today, perhaps Jesus would have talked about yard sales and posters, cars and mechanics, cellphones and computers. On the surface, the parables would be different, but underneath they would be the same. They would communicate the same spiritual truth with different word pictures to a different culture.

Jerome, an early church scholar, explained it this way: “Like as gold is sought for in the earth and the kernel in a nut, so in parables we must search more deeply after the divine meaning.”

So what is the Parable of the Sower really about? If the people who first heard this story took it only at face value, then Jesus was not telling them anything that they did not already know. They were farmers and knew all about planting seeds. In fact they’d probably say that the sower in the story was somewhat careless and wasteful for throwing seeds in areas where they were not likely to grow. But that was part of the storyteller’s technique—to put into the story an element that was somewhat out of place, an element that made people stop and ponder what this was all about. After all, no prudent farmer would just throw his seeds to the wind and let them fall where they may. There had to be more to the story than that.

Fortunately, this is one of the few times in which the Gospel writers record Jesus’ explanation of one of his parables. He explained others to his disciples when they didn’t understand, but he usually left the crowds to mull things over in their heads.

And so in Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus says: “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: When people hear the message about the kingdom and do not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart.

This is the seed sown along the path. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to people who hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. The seed falling among the thorns refers to people who hear the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. But the seed falling on good soil refers to people who hear the word and understand it. They produce a crop, yielding a hundred, 60 or 30 times what was sown” (Matthew 13:18-23).

Get the picture?

Major Fred Ash is a retired Salvation Army officer, freelance writer and editor living in Barrie, Ont.

FAITH WORKS

The Towel and Basin

Servant leadership means living the kingdom way

BY MAJOR KATHIE CHIU

I

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them” (John 13:12-17).

It seems funny to me that out of all the things that Jesus told us to do, the early church fathers didn’t pick foot washing to be a church sacrament. Yet I think it would help my walk with God and my leadership to be regularly reminded of how to live as Jesus lived— as a servant.

The challenge for a leader is to ask “How do I translate the idea of the servant into leadership? Doesn’t it fly in the face of everything we’ve learned?”

As leaders, we stand up on the platform in church, have the corner office with the view in the workplace, teach from the front of the class at school, and,

Photo: © depositphotos.com/carlosphotos

n my last six Salvationist articles I addressed topics of interest to leaders. As a leader myself I’m interested in knowing more about leadership, as I’m sure you are. How do we navigate successfully through our work and lives as leaders without studying leadership?

To improve your leadership skills, you can get degrees, join organizations and attend conferences. It’s natural for us as Christians to desire to do our best in our work and ministries. We take charge, bring our best to the table, compete for a spot and aspire to learn as much as we can so we can earn those coveted leadership positions.

I’m going to blow that concept out of the water right now and say it’s time to bring back the towel and the basin: as officers in a hierarchical structure, we make decisions at the top and expect everyone to follow.

In The Salvation Army, the system for officers is one of sacrifice and, at first glance, it may appear that the worldly goals of ambition and power have escaped us. Officers commit to sacrifice by obeying their leaders. They put their own personal desires and family considerations aside to serve others.

However, if we’re honest with ourselves, sometimes we’re motivated to sacrifice this way because we know it’s how you advance your career in the organization.

In Jesus on Leadership, C. Gene Wilkes writes, “Too many organizations, homes, businesses and schools struggle because they lack men and women who lead as Jesus did. Head tables have replaced the towel and washbasin as symbols of leadership among God’s people.” It’s almost as if we have allowed the world’s version of leadership and position to creep into the church, infecting our lives and establishing patterns of living and leading that make being like Jesus too difficult.

Jesus challenges our whole concept of power and authority. He turns position on its head and says to us, “Go and serve others.” How do we do that? We jump

down off our platforms and allow Jesus to be exalted. We become satisfied with the privilege of participating in ministry with God. We make following God’s will our priority and stop worrying about what that looks like. He has a mission for each of us and we must stay true to it. We look at those who follow us as team members and find ways to make what is best for them our priority. How can we help them to do better? How can we help them to be all God wants them to be? How can we better serve them and together serve others? We share our power and authority with our team and stop worrying about getting the credit.

We give people permission to fail and then we help them clean up the mess when they do.

When we grasp the concept of servant leadership we will realize that we are living and leading the kingdom way— where those who are first are last and those who are last are first. The world is catching on to service-oriented models of leadership. We’ve had the perfect model all along. It’s time we picked up the towel and washbasin to show them where it all started.

Major Kathie Chiu is the corps officer of Victoria’s High Point Community Church.

Salvationist I April 2013 I 29

TALKING POINTS

From Hero to Zero Lance Armstrong’s confession reminds us to empathize with the broken—no matter how far they’ve fallen

Photo: © AP Photo/Peter Dejong

BY MAJOR JUAN BURRY

“We must learn to regard people less in the light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer.”

—Dietrich Bonhoeffer

O

nce upon a time, there was a man whom the world revered. He was athletic and exciting. He not only battled cancer, but conquered it and became a seventime champion in his sport. He also launched a charity that raised nearly half a billion dollars for others affected by cancer.

The man was a hero.

There was also a man who competed in the same sport, but was a cheater. He depended on performance-enhancing drugs to help him compete and win races. If people opposed him or didn’t comply with his demands, he bullied and harassed them. If anyone tried to implicate him in a doping scandal, he sued them and frightened them so they would not reveal the truth. The man was a villain.

Oddly, these two characters are the same man. After years of denying the use of banned substances and in the face of overwhelming evidence, Lance Armstrong finally admitted to Oprah Winfrey that he lied and cheated. Very quickly, the media went from putting Armstrong on a pedestal to tossing him aside like yesterday’s trash. There was no compassion. In fact, many seemed to take Armstrong’s sins personally, like 30 I April 2013 I Salvationist

he had somehow sinned against them. Why is that?

When Armstrong confessed his cheating ways to Winfrey, the pundits were all chiming in with their opinions. Did he do enough in his confession? Did he seem sincere? Does he deserve a second chance?

Thankfully, that is a decision we don’t need to make. I am sure we all get tired of seeing our heroes and role models make serious moral mistakes and then deny their culpability right up until they can no longer hide it. We’ve seen it happen in the church. It is deflating to our spirits and we wonder how we can trust people again.

But perhaps the answer to dealing with our disappointment in those who fail us is to stop holding them up so high in the first place. Maybe we need to take a more realistic view of the world and not exalt celebrities, professional athletes or even preachers beyond what we ourselves are capable of.

Armstrong was defiant in the face of those who wanted the truth. He was ruthless in how he went about winning each of his seven Tour de France victories. It is hard to have much compassion for him. Yet the Bible says that we are to: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

How do we get beyond our disappointment in others to the place where we can forgive them? The key lies in the last part of that verse. It is the recognition that the shortcomings in others—whether large or small—are essentially no different than our own flaws. Perhaps that is why we get so outraged with Armstrong and others. They remind us of our own inadequacies and the need for compassion and forgiveness.

I will be the first to admit that what Armstrong did was wrong. As a Salvationist and one who is passionate about caring for the weak, I am more appalled by Armstrong’s bullying and harassment of other riders and participants than I am by his cheating. I am not making any excuses for him, but perhaps viewing him through the old paradigm of good/bad and heroes/villains doesn’t help us to have compassion. In that model, he is immediately cast as the villain and undeserving of our compassion. Perhaps a better paradigm is one in which we acknowledge that our lifestyle and behaviour are influenced by a whole host of factors, many of which are beyond our control (e.g. family of origin, experience of trauma, brain pattern and development).

In his interview with Winfrey, Armstrong often alluded to his upbringing and how he and his mother “had their backs against the wall.” His childhood was a constant fight against feelings of inferiority. No doubt, there was a significant amount of shame that came along with that. Perhaps Armstrong used his career to feel superior and fight off the shame with which he had long been saddled. Undoubtedly, those feelings contributed to the bravado and his desire to win at all costs.

Ultimately, he is responsible for his actions. But, maybe for a moment, we can look at Lance Armstrong the man—not the hero or villain—and realize that underneath the defiant exterior is an ashamed young boy with an inferiority complex.

Maybe it means looking in the mirror and recognizing that the reason we hurt people and lash out is because we ourselves are hurting. While that doesn’t excuse improper behaviour, it does help illicit empathy. Now let’s ask ourselves: Does Lance Armstrong deserve compassion? Do we?

Major Juan Burry is the executive director of Victoria’s Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre.

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