FAITH IN ACTION 01 JUNE 2019 | Issue 6718 | $1.50
Meredith’s
Mahi She was once a young girl in an abusive home, but is now running for Mayor of Gisborne
‘The Issue of Our Generation’ Magical Night at Launch of Offering The Sallies’ Sweet History with the Donut
The End of Life Bill—What Should We Think? The Foodbank Project Reaches $1 Million!
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WAR CRY The Salvation Army
New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Andy & Yvonne Westrupp | GENERAL Brian Peddle | FOUNDERS William
& Catherine Booth
The Salvation Army’s message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by love for God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need in his name without discrimination. War Cry exists to support and advance The Salvation Army’s message, ministry and mission. MANAGING EDITOR Ingrid Barratt | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Matt Gillon | STAFF WRITERS Captain Jules Badger, Hugh Collins, Major Shar Davis | PROOF READING Major Jill
Gainsford, Vivienne Hill OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box
6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Fax (04) 382 0716, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department, Phone
(04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT www.makeready.nz | PAPER Sumo Offset
is an environmentally responsible paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) FSC® certified Mixed Source pulp from responsible sources and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System.
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Having Fun with God I have always loved dancing—with far more enthusiasm than talent, I might add! It was not something I did growing up, but as an adult I loved to give it a go. I was a devotee of a dance fitness class that was like Zumba on steroids. They were running a dance competition, but I was struck down with a heavy cold, so I wavered about whether I would enter. But I felt a prompting in my spirit saying, ‘You have to go and hand in your entry’. I thought, ‘Really? God, can that be you? Would the Holy Spirit really be prompting me to attend a dance class?’ So I went along, and … guess what? I won! It was not by any talent, but by pure luck … or pure blessing. The prize was tickets to a Stevie Wonder concert—and the whole experience felt like God was reaching down to bring me joy. It was especially meaningful for me, because it was during a time of unanswered prayer in my life, and I often wondered whether I was forgotten by God. But, in this small—and let’s be honest, rather silly—moment, God was reassuring me that he sees me, and wants to bless me for who I am. And, that he even wants to have fun with me! I reflected on this after reading the piece on page three by Jules Badger. God, in his infinite creativity, gives us moments of beauty—even within our grief. It’s not an answer to suffering, but it does allow us to feel God’s presence in every circumstance. Ingrid Barratt Editor
Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association. All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated. Articles are copyrighted to The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and may be reprinted only with permission. Publishing for 135 years | Issue 6718 ISSN 0043-0242 (print), ISSN 2537-7442 (online) Please pass on or recycle this magazine Read online www.issuu.com/salvationarmynzftwarcry
www.salvationarmy.org.nz SalvationArmyNZFTS @SalvationArmyNZ salvationarmynzfts
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Hope itself is like a star— not to be seen in the sunshine of prosperity, and only to be discovered in the night of adversity. Charles H. Spurgeon
Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Tiuteronomi 33.27 Ko te Atua ora tonu tōu nohoanga, ā kei raro ko ngā ringa o tua iho: ā i peia e ia te hoariri i tōu aroaro, i mea hoki, Whakangaromia.
Ginny Blackmore meeting Michael Hight at his studio in West Auckland. Photography: Glenn Manchester.
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enesis 1:1 says, ‘In the beginning God created … ’ And he did so for six days straight! Before God laid down any laws or smote anyone, God got creative—he imagined, designed, invented, sculpted, constructed and painted a priceless, timeless, original and beautiful masterpiece. Just for us to live in. Being created in the image of God means we are naturally creative. Artists, accountants, poets, musicians, butchers, bakers, candlestick makers, gardeners, mechanics, heavy metal drummers, rappers, Irish dancers, knitters … not one of us missed out on the creative gene. We are designed to imitate the creator by creating. As Commissioner Andy Westrupp said at the launch of the Offering project, ‘Music and art move us like nothing else can’. God knew that after the ‘fall’ our lives would be peppered with difficulty, illness, grief, injustice, hate, anger and death. We want desperately to know why God chose not to spare us from all this pain. But anyone who’s been on the spiritual journey for a while knows, beauty is one of the lights that keeps hope alive in dark places. God created beauty to comfort us when nothing else can. God created beauty to lift our spirits when we fall and fail and are frail. God created beauty to remind us that even when we are staring life’s ugliest circumstances in the face, this is not the end. There is more. Isaiah 61:3 reminds us that God will ‘bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord or the display of his splendour’. When we’re stuck in the doldrums of despair, when we’re walking through the valley of the shadow of death, when we’re having a thoroughly human experience, many Christians testify that God used the contrast of beauty to reawaken hope and rebuild faith. The artists and musicians who generously gave their creativity to Offering, will help ease the suffering of our nation’s poor, through the work of The Salvation Army. Beauty for ashes right there. Interestingly, but not surprisingly, the lyrics of each hymn featured in Offering, were written during times of great adversity and struggle. The artwork that accompanies each hymn endeavours to express something of both the synergy and paradox between despair and hope, darkness and light, ashes and beauty. Offering is a mind-blowing blessing for The Salvation Army. It’s also a clarion cry for us to remember that since the fall, exchanging beauty for ashes has been God’s paramount work of creativity. In the beginning God created … but it was not a one-time thing! Everyone gets a shot at a new beginning. Broken lives can be re-created in Christ. In turn, God enables us to create beauty through our lives. BY JULES BADGER
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The Army and the History of the Donut In celebration of National Donut Day on 7 June, we examine a sweet and sugary part of Salvation Army history that most are probably unaware of … Picture this: you’re a soldier fighting in the hellish squalor of combat in WWI. The mud, rats and constant threat of death makes life miserable. But suddenly a woman appears and hands you a donut. Just the tasty treat you needed to soothe your weary soul.
WARCRYINHISTORY
On 1 October 1960, War Cry featured Sister Rita Rainer, of Gisborne’s Edward Murphy Hospital, who collected £63 for the Self-Denial Appeal. Source: Booth College of Mission Heritage and Archives Centre
Comedy Poms (PG, offensive language) Zara Hayes
Skimming the surface, but failing to plumb the depths of some big topics, Poms still managed to have some powerful moments and lots of laughs. Starring Diane Keaton as Martha, this predictable tale of a terminally ill, childless retiree seeking to die in peace, was still strangely moving. Befriended by fun-loving Sheryl (delightfully played by Jacki Weaver, who outshines Keaton) Martha decides to take on the establishment and start a cheerleading squad for seniors. Some beautiful intergenerational moments ensue, as teenager Chloe (played by Alisha Boe of 13 Reasons Why fame) quits her own squad to coach ‘the grandmas she never had’. Cheerleading comes second to relentless female determination, which had me tearing up more than once. (Reviewed by Jules Badger)
In 1917, Salvation Army service workers entered WWI as support to those on the frontlines. While these workers were both male and female, it was women who featured prominently in this story. Known as ‘donut girls’, these service workers provided baked treats and coffee to battle-worn soldiers. Salvation Army history buff Major Kingsley Sampson says the story speaks of innovation, initiative and improvisation—making do with what is at hand. ‘It reflects motherhood and home in that it provided a “taste of home” in the midst of the horrors of the battlefield for war-weary, homesick soldiers,’ Kingsley says. The workers producing the treats would make use of whatever was at hand—wine bottles and baseball bats became rolling pins. Kingsley says the story is one of courage and heroism. ‘The women worked close to the front line and often within range of enemy shellfire and shrapnel. It is a story in which young non-combatant women, not male soldiers, are the heroes.’
Weird of the Week: It is physically impossible for you to lick your elbow. 4 WarCry 01 JUNE 2019
Faith isn’t about having everything figured out ahead of time; faith is about following the quiet voice of God without having everything figured out ahead of time. Rachel Held Evans
TOPFIVE In celebration of National Donut Day on 7 June, we’re taking a look at some of the weirdest holidays from around the world. 5 National Fried Chicken Day— Observed in the United States, 6 July presents a great excuse to indulge in some fatty and delicious fried chook. 4 Singles Awareness Day— Also known as Singles Appreciation day, 15 February offers a nice complement to Valentine’s Day. 3 International Axe Throwing Day—This Canadian pastime has become an annual celebration on 13 June. Please make sure you keep this well away from residential and urban areas! 2 Kiss a Ginger Day—Started by Canadian comedian Derek Forgie, let’s ensure we spend January 12 showing redheads how much we appreciate them. 1 Pastor Appreciation Day—3 October is a great time to give your corps officers or pastors some special love and attention.
QUIKQUIZ 1 W hat did Prince Harry and Meghan Markle call their baby?
2 What is pineapple guava also known as? 3 How many vertebrae in a giraffe’s neck? 4 What is the capital city of Poland? 5 W hat church began in the home of Lydia, the seller of purple? Answers on page 22
Easy Peasy Donuts 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup white sugar 1 tsp salt 1 Tbsp baking powder ¼ tsp ground cinnamon 1 dash ground nutmeg 2 Tbsp melted butter ½ cup milk 1 egg, beaten 1 litre oil for frying
Heat oil in deep-fryer to 190°C. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix in butter until crumbly. Stir in milk and egg until smooth. Knead lightly, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or pat to 1cm thickness. Cut with a donut cutter, or use two round biscuit cutters of different sizes to make the shape and hole. Carefully drop donuts into hot oil, a few at a time. Do not overcrowd pan or oil may overflow. Fry, turning once, for 3 minutes or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Dust with sugar and cinnamon.
Sugar and cinnamon mixture for dusting Source: allrecipes.com
SALLIEOFTHEWEEK
Gaylene Harawira (Whakatāne Corps) Gaylene first started coming to the Sallies in Whaktāne when she was a child, although she left for many years before her return around 30 years ago. Gaylene loves people and is hugely valued at the Whakatāne corps. She loves to turn her hand wherever there is need and our church family is so much richer because of it. Currently a part of our emergency housing team, year after year Gaylene can be seen giving her all. In the past few years, some of her children and moko (grandchildren) have even started coming along as well. Well done Gaylene, we love you. Do you have someone working hard behind the scenes in your corps? Let us know! warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz 01 JUNE 2019 WarCry 5
Meredi
Mah
ith’s
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In 1978, an eight-year-old Meredith was playing in the mud by her letterbox, contemplating how to kill herself. A Salvation Army officer drove up and invited her to Sunday School. Now, 40 years later, that little girl is running for Gisborne’s mayoralty. BY JULES BADGER
There have been days lately when Meredith Akuhata-Brown has caught herself thinking: ‘God are you sure? You know this is me, Meredith, here, eh? With my violent upbringing, weird ways and outgoing personality? Running for Mayor— are you sure?’ This touch of self-doubt is ironic because Meredith’s mantra, as she moves about her beloved community is: ‘Who are you and what’s your story?’ Meredith believes in a God who can do more with a surrendered life than could ever be imagined; and that someone’s past does not need to dictate their future. Meredith, herself, is living proof.
A Life Saved … Literally Born and raised in Puhi Kaiti, one of Gisborne’s poorest neighbourhoods, Meredith is the sixth of seven children. At home, God and faith were never talked about. No grace before meals, nothing. ‘My Dad was an alcoholic so life at home was difficult. Domestic violence and abuse were normal facets of daily life. I was utterly miserable. I was just a child, but I reached the depths of despair and didn’t want to be on the planet anymore. I remember thinking, “If there’s something bigger out there—more than this— I need to know. God if you’re real, help me—show yourself!”’ At that very moment, a red station wagon came around the corner and pulled up next to Meredith. Captain Jim Miller was picking up the kids next door for Sunday School and asked if she wanted to come, too. ‘In that moment my whole world changed. The only place I ever felt safe was at school. Why hadn’t anyone told me there was school on Sundays?! I thought: “Wow! Count me in”,’ Meredith recalls. ‘When we arrived at the old citadel on Gladstone Road, I looked out the car window and saw a family out front. The man kissed his wife and kids, and I remember thinking: “Where on earth am I? What is this place?” It was all so foreign. ‘A few years later I gave my heart to Jesus and became a Junior Soldier, but really, God saved me that day when Jim picked me up—literally.’ Life at home didn’t change much for Meredith, but she now had a faith community around her. ‘I still consider Jim and Anne Millar to be the first faith influencers in my life. Jim was a gentle, kind, fatherly figure. Obviously today we don’t encourage kids to take candy from strangers, but Jim was the real deal—and his lollipops were what I considered to be the high end of lollipops! Chocolate eclairs—no cheap stuff! But there was something telling in that 01 JUNE 2019 WarCry 7
small action. That’s how much he cared about us—nothing but the best!’ laughs Meredith.
A Real Family Meredith found a place of belonging and nurture in the care of youth leaders Grant and Doreen Harris. But Bible study was the catalyst for really building Meredith’s faith. ‘Being grounded in the word at a young age was such a blessing. It became so evident to me that the Bible was a resource that I needed to be strongly connected to.’ When God answered Meredith’s cry back in 1978, coupled with what she was learning in the Bible, she learnt not to hesitate in asking for what she wanted. ‘As a young person I remember praying, “God all I want is to marry my first boyfriend and know what a real family is”. I felt God saying to me: “If you honour me, I will give you the desires of your heart”. And he’s done that my whole life,’ Meredith testifies. Meredith met Jason, from the local Apostolic Church, at a YFC (Youth for Christ) event. ‘The wider church community is such a great space for meeting your future spouse,’ she laughs. Married for 27 years now with three young-adult children, Meredith explains that she was very apprehensive about being a mum at first.
‘IF THERE’S SOMETHING BIGGER OUT THERE—MORE THAN THIS—I NEED TO KNOW. GOD IF YOU’RE REAL, HELP ME—SHOW YOURSELF!’ ‘I was truly nervous about parenting, coming from such a broken family and violent background. I had to do a lot of work on myself because I felt so inadequate. I relied big time on the support and encouragement of our church family. And I daily thank God that Jason came from such a loving and nurturing Christian whānau. ‘Jason carries patience, understanding, forgiveness—things that didn’t come naturally to me. Our kids have benefited from having such a Godly man as their dad. For sure, they have been exposed to my boldness, but that’s so beautifully complimented by Jason’s grace.’ 8 WarCry 01 JUNE 2019
Jason and Meredith returned to The Salvation Army when their two daughters were pre-schoolers, and Meredith became involved with Mainly Music. Their son was born during this time and was very unwell at birth. ‘God added a Sallie whānau to the support around us because it was such a difficult and traumatic time for us. ‘The nerves about being an adequate mum came back, but God never let me down,’ she recalls. Relentless hospital visits ensued, with trips to Starship in Auckland, but Meredith found she was able to make a difference as she listened and connected with struggling families in those spaces.
A Nudge From God God began challenging Meredith about being intentionally involved with people outside the usual church spaces. It was a nudge from God that led her to apply for a position as a school social worker. ‘I wasn’t qualified—all I had was my life experience and passion—but I just knew I could make a difference. I prayed “God if this is where you want me, you have to make it happen”.’ She got the job over others who were qualified. Meredith went on to work in two other high schools, before accepting a position with the police as Youth Offending Prevention Coordinator. From there, she moved into the realm of youth justice as an advocate for youth court. There are now 16 of these youth courts on local marae throughout New Zealand. For Meredith, youth work and the social service sector had become a natural fit, so she began studying toward a Diploma in Youth Work through Praxis. It was during this period of learning that she made an unsettling discovery. She’d always believed herself to be Ngāti Oneone of Ngāti Porou descent, and was shocked to discover she didn’t whakapapa as strongly to the Tairāwhiti region as she’d always believed. ‘At the tender age of 37, I found out that I’m actually Tainui. We hadn’t talked much about whakapapa growing up, with my dad being Pākehā with Welsh/English roots. But I discovered Mum’s whānau whakapapa from Pukekohe, down through to the Wairarapa. ‘I was heart-broken to be honest. I was telling an elder I wasn’t really an East Coast Māori, but she said the most beautiful thing to me: “I knew that—I remember when your mother first arrived here. But don’t worry, we whāngai-ed you kids way back then”. I was so touched because Gisborne is my home, so to be adopted into the local whānau is so precious to me.’
‘GOD CALLS ME TO BE TRANSPARENT AND I’M ALWAYS HOPEFUL THAT WHEN PEOPLE HEAR ME SPEAK AND SEE ME IN ACTION, THEY REALISE I DO THIS BECAUSE OF WHAT I BELIEVE IN.’ Speaking Up for Others During her Praxis studies, Meredith connected with an American Collective called Freedom Writers (FW). Inspired, she trained to be an FW teacher, and travelled to the United States with local Gisborne school students in 2018. As part of this, she came before local council advocating on several issues, and felt compelled to run for the Gisborne District Council. ‘In the political arena you can challenge policy and legislation. It made sense to be in that space and try and make a difference at that level. ‘Being a Christian in politics is challenging, but it’s my faith that keeps me honest. God calls me to be transparent and I’m always hopeful that when people hear me speak and see me in action, they realise I do this because of what I believe in. ‘I believe in the Kingdom of God coming here on earth, and that motivates me daily. I’m a Christian and I can’t not be one—it’s who I am—and God’s given me a boldness to speak up,’ says Meredith. She adds that, ‘being out-spoken is one of the reasons people say they vote for me. They believe I’ll be brave enough to speak on their behalf.’ Meredith is also acutely aware that like any secular sphere, she’s not wrestling against ‘flesh and blood’: ‘I’m really aware that while Council starts with a karakia, there are issues of injustice that need prayer muscle behind them. Scripture tells us to pray for our government, so my plea to churches is: please pray,’ she urges. Now, Meredith is taking another bold step: ‘I had a stranger come up to me in the supermarket recently and say, “Please stand for the mayoralty”. I said: “I’m thinking about it”. She said: “good”.’ But Meredith felt it was such a big decision, she needed confirmation from God: ‘A visiting elder at our family’s current place of worship, Wainui Beach Community Church, had a word for Jason and me. She said: “I felt the Lord say it’s time to step out. Over your lives there has been a powerful anointing; God wants you to be who you are called to be and wants you to stand confidently in that, because in this day God is going to
use you”. What could I say to that other than, “OK, I’m trusting you God”,’ Meredith laughs. ‘The irony is that I don’t have a really strong sense that I’m going to win. I might—but if I can increase participation in the democratic process, that’s a win for me. I want to see young people, Māori, and those who wouldn’t normally vote, talking about issues that affect our community. My faith dictates that this has to be about democracy in action first and foremost. It’s not all about me!’
Ready for MORE Meredith is no stranger to The Salvation Army youth scene, having spoken at a recent Northern Youth Councils. She has just been announced as a speaker at the MORE conference in July, run by the Territorial Youth and Children's Departments. ‘MORE is such a fantastic concept! I know that when there is more of God and less of me, I’m in a much stronger position,’ reflects Meredith. ‘I believe in a God who looks at our weakness and frailty, our sin and simplistic thinking, and sees potential we just can’t see. He sees “more”. ‘I want young people and youth leaders to grasp that no matter what you think about yourself, or where you’ve come from, he sees more. We focus on our “less-ness”, and we limit God. But he’s in the “more” of his promises!’ Her passion for young people is informed by her own upbringing: ‘I desperately want young people to know that God is in the middle of their struggles,’ says Meredith. ‘I know that feeling of deep despair—I’ve been there—and I can easily go back and be that little girl playing in the mud thinking, “I can’t do this anymore”. ‘But I’ve also seen what God can do when we trust him for more, because he’s done it for me again and again. The clouds will part, and the sun will shine again. He promises to never let us go.’ In one sense, that little girl sitting in mud has come a long way—but in another, her roots are deep in the soil where God wants her to bloom.
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Dealing with Dementia If you suspect you’re suffering from more than just ‘forgetfulness’, you can take steps that will help you continue having a positive and healthy life for years to come. ‘If I have been out shopping, and I come in and I might want to go to the bathroom. I’m going around opening the doors saying that’s not the place, and this is out in the hall, and I can’t remember, and I’m saying: “Gosh, what did I come in here for?”’, recalls Mrs Curren, 74, regarding her experience of early dementia. Dementia progresses over a period of around 10 years. Warning signs include recent memory loss that affects daily life, difficulty performing regular tasks, problems with language, disorientation, problems with judgement or abstract thinking, misplacing things and changes in behaviour or personality, according to Alzheimer’s NZ (Alzheimer’s disease is the most common reason for dementia).
A RANGE OF EMOTIONS IS NORMAL, AND IT’S OKAY TO CRY OR EVEN LAUGH ABOUT IT.
The onset of dementia can be frightening. The sufferer will often try to cover up their confusion, and family members may feel they are in denial—but this only causes more anxiety for the sufferer and their whānau. Seeing a GP about any concerns can actually be a positive opportunity to talk through fears and ease anxieties. You may discover your symptoms are not a sign of dementia at all. Even if it is dementia, getting help sooner can slow down the progress of the disease. And most people find that actually knowing is better than wondering: ‘It just gives a person the peace of mind that, yeah, we definitely know what it is and life goes on,’ says a family member of a person suffering dementia, in the guide ‘Coping with the Early Stages of Dementia’. If you’ve had a diagnosis of dementia, Alzheimer’s NZ says it’s important not to deny your feelings. A range of emotions is normal, and it’s okay to cry or even laugh about it. Share your feelings with your family, and writing about it can help you process. ‘Be patient and kind to yourself. If you are finding it hard to remember something, don’t stress about it—focus on something else,’ says Alzheimer’s NZ. ‘Try something new—finding a new activity you enjoy will make you feel better and it will stimulate your brain. Go out and enjoy life.’ Sources: dementiapathways.ie alzheimers.org.nz
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Next steps
A practical guide to dealing with a dementia diagnosis. • Ask your doctor about anti-dementia drugs and other types of interventions that might improve your quality of life. • Try to organise your financial affairs. Consider setting up a direct debit account, this may make bill payments a lot easier. • Talk to a solicitor about an ‘Enduring Power of Attorney’. Nominating someone to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf, can make life a lot easier if your memory becomes more impaired. • Put systems in place to help you with memory loss— this can range from a noticeboard and Post-It notes to assistive technologies. • Find out about the wealth of care services you can access from your home, including things like cleaning and Meals On Wheels—www.alzheimers.org.nz has a lot of tips.
TESTIFY! Josh Mosa’ati, featured in this year’s Red Shield adverts, is a talented rugby player and musician—and balances it all with his Christian faith. As told to Lieutenant-Colonel Bill Allott. My name is Joshua Mosa’ati and I recently took part in a photoshoot to promote this year’s Red Shield Appeal with the All Blacks captain, Kieran Read. Most people know me as Josh. I’m 19 years old and work as an apprentice carpenter on a commercial building site in central Christchurch. I started work at 5 o’clock in the morning to take time off for the photos! Work helps me pay my bills and things, but having God in my life is just as important. It’s tough being a Christian on a building site. I work with some who are Christians, but others like to have me on and that’s a challenge. Colourful language goes with the job! As an apprentice, I work with a qualified carpenter—particularly when I’m learning new tasks. I also have carpentry trade books that I need to study. Rugby takes up a lot of my free time. I’ve been playing as an open-side flanker with the Burnside Club senior team, but the coach wants me to change to centre. At present I’m in our senior reserve team while I get used to playing in the backline and learn about my new position. I play hard, but try not to be overly aggressive. When there’s a fight I prefer to walk away. When I don’t agree with the ref, I may have a little argument, but then get on with the game. I train four evenings a week and that includes gym, field and class sessions. I don’t like things to be half done, so I seek perfection. I was born in Palmerston North, but my Tongan roots are quite important to me. Tongan was my first language when I was growing up, and we’ve always used it at home. When I was
MY CHRISTIAN FAITH PROVIDES A BASIS FOR MY BUSY LIFE. younger, we used to go back to Tonga every year. It’s not so easy now with the commitments we each have, but I still like going back to meet my cousins and other family members. The last time we went back was in 2012. I have a cousin in Christchurch who encourages me to perform Tongan dancing and singing and we get together three or four times a year. Brass banding is important to us as a family. Tonga has a police band and there are bands in the military forces. Many schools have bands and that’s where my father learnt to play. After we came to Christchurch, he saw a Salvation Army band playing in a street. He realised that his Christian faith could be expressed in this way, so he chased up the bandmaster and that brought us to the Army. I now play trombone with my dad Daniel, in the Christchurch City Corps
Band, and my brother Stephen plays cornet. He and I are also members of the Salvation Army NZFTS Youth Band. It was our privilege to go to California with this band last year. The eight kilometre march that we did in the cold was the first time I’d marched in public with a band! My shoulders ached with holding up my trombone. I like singing. I get that from my dad. He really loves singing. We sing in Tongan as a family at home and sometimes in Army meetings. Along with Mum and Dad, I also sing in the songsters. I’m a member of the youth group, but don’t turn up as much as I’d like. Last year, Stephen and I became senior soldiers of The Salvation Army. My parents are recruiting sergeants at the corps (church) but it’s something I wanted to do for myself. My Christian faith provides a basis for my busy life.
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Colson Verdonk, 22, examines why climate change is real, and why it may be the most important issue of his generation. To mark World Environment Day on 5 June, this is the first in a two-part series. I remember my history teacher in Year 11 discussing the importance of climate change, stating that it was the issue of my generation—and encouraged me to dedicate my career to it. At the time, I knew it was important, but didn’t think it was the most important issue. Six years later, my view has changed. My urgency for action has grown exponentially, and this series looks into why yours should too. This two-part series on climate change delves into what climate change actually is, what it means for people of faith, and what we can do about it. I encourage the skeptics to engage with the discussion, and to think deeper into their ideas and ask why—this series is for you as much as the climate activist.
The evidence for climate change is overwhelming and substantive,* while studies used to disprove climate change are often outliers—and some are funded from the fossil fuel industry. Looking at the evidence as a whole tells us that climate change is real and that we need to act. There are many Christian climate activists—those on the frontline of climate action. But there has been a large portion of Christianity that have pushed back against climate change and continue to be skeptical, advocating against action. But faith and action on climate change, I believe, are intimately linked. We are called to be stewards who protect and look after the gift that is the planet.
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Climate change is caused by greenhouse gas emissions. When the sun’s energy reaches the earth’s atmosphere, some of it is reflected back to space, and the rest is absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases— including carbon dioxide, methane and water vapor. The absorbed energy warms the atmosphere and the surface of the earth. This process maintains the earth’s temperature at around 33°C, allowing life on earth to exist. However, when greenhouse gases increase, this process results in more insulation—and, therefore, rising temperatures. Since the industrial revolution, humans have released more and more greenhouse gas emissions, due to the burning of fossil fuels and coal, intensive farming and the expansion of manufacturing processes. The causes of climate change are complex and multilayered. But at the core of the issue is the current system putting profit over people—from the sweat shops in Calcutta to big oil drilling off the coast of Australia. For too long, the bottom line has been profit. One hundred corporations are responsible for 30 percent of global carbon emissions. To fight climate change, we need to do more than reduce plastic and start using Keep Cups (although these are both good things). We need to look at the system as a whole and work for a world where profit isn’t the bottom line—but where the environment and people are.
The IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) Report was released at the end of 2018, detailing the issue of climate change. The report gathered the extensive environmental research of the previous year, to predict climate change and its impact. It showed that if we don’t drastically reduce carbon emissions, we are on track for a catastrophic temperature rise. If current commitments to international climate agreements are adhered to, we are still tracking for a 3.5 degree increase. This means we have 12 years at the current rate of emissions, before we need to become carbon neutral. I often talk about climate change disproportionately affecting the poor and vulnerable, and it does. But the conversation needs to change. Climate change has and will affect people across borders, cultures, socioeconomic groups and nations. The choice has become simple: join in the effort to minimise catastrophic climate change or feel its effects—not in 50 years, but more and more with each day.
The governments of our country have often taken an economy-before-environment approach—meaning action is supported, but only if there is limited economic cost. There is a fundamental problem with this thinking. The environment and climate contribute significantly to our economy. People visit Aotearoa from around the world for its natural beauty, rivers, lakes and mountains. Tourism is our largest export industry, employing 7.5 percent of the workforce and contributing $34.7 billion to our GDP.
‘WE NEED TO LOOK AT THE SYSTEM AS A WHOLE AND WORK FOR A WORLD WHERE PROFIT ISN’T THE BOTTOM LINE.’
Our second largest export industry is agriculture— an industry reliant on climate for successful outcomes. Last summer, we saw severe droughts in Nelson and the Bay of Plenty, and this impacts on production and has significant stress on stock and farmers. The impact of the climate changing on our economy is vital to consider. Recently, Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) stated the cost to council infrastructure due to a 1.5 metre sea level rise would be a minimum of $8 billion; while the cost to the private sector could run into tens of billions, according to insurers. The reality is that climate change will affect us all financially, socially and politically.
The climate movement has to be built from the ground up. Government and corporations will not listen without people mobilising. We have to be serious about action, because the fossil fuel industry, and corporations benefiting from too-loose environmental impact regulations, are serious about keeping their profits and power. Climate change doesn’t need discussion—like most global issues it needs decisive and forceful action. Companies and governments—driven by their stakeholders, supporters and those who finance their dealings—are not currently taking responsibility for the planet and the people within it. Action on climate change has been painfully slow. Targets are one thing, but legislation that ensures that they are met, is another. Even our current government, led by Jacinda Ardern, who called climate change ‘our nuclear free moment’, has so far failed to take meaningful action beyond targets. The time for dialogue has passed, we need to make substantial changes to our system of government, business and personal lives. It is a moment which ensures that cooperation and togetherness is our only option. We are all in this together—no matter what creed or race or country. And ensuring that legislation, regulation and policy is passed within Aotearoa, and within every nation, is the most important thing of my generation.
* See evidence from NASA, Ministry of Business Innovation and Enterprise, the research coming from universities in New Zealand and abroad, and the IPCC 2018 report.
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A MAGICAL NIGHT OF The Salvation Army has received ‘an unprecedented gift’, said Commissioner Andy Westrupp at the highly anticipated launch of the Offering project. BY JULES BADGER
Picking up the famous Army motto of ‘soup, soap and salvation’, the Offering launch began with guests sipping gourmet minestrone soup in vintage enamel Salvation Army mugs. They mingled in the courtyard of Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral in Auckland, to tunes from the Wellington City Corps Band, who played as the sun set. Offering is the brainchild of Murray Thom and Tim Harper and is a collection of ancient hymns recorded by 15 New Zealand artists, including Stan Walker, Dave Dobbyn, Sol3 Mio and Kimbra. Each hymn has been interpreted by a prominent New Zealand visual artist, in a stunning collection of 12 works. The launch, on 30 April, was broadcast live on Seven Sharp. As the time came to move inside, it became clear that Holy Trinity Cathedral was the perfect backdrop for showcasing the beauty of Offering. Stunning stained glassed windows accentuated the light and shade of the art on display, while the cavernous interior of the church enhanced the acoustics of every breathtaking musical performance. A curved LED screen spanned the entire stage and, while music and art were clearly the stars of the show, at poignant 14 WarCry 01 JUNE 2019
moments the cross that hung above it kept the muse behind each hymn centre stage. Salvation Army Māori Ministry Kapa Haka sang a beautiful karakia to open the evening. Then MC Petra Bagust declared, ‘I hope you’ve come with open hearts and minds ready to be filled. We want your kete to be full when you leave. ‘You’re going to hear beautiful music and see beautiful art tonight. It will be soup for your soul. It’s about each of us bringing what we’ve got to help care for the poor. That’s the invitation to each of us tonight—bring what you have as an offering. Let’s collaborate together!’ In his opening address, Offering project creator Murray Thom just couldn’t hold back! ‘This is the happiest night of my life! Come on! We’re doing a great thing here and I’m so happy and humbled to see the vision finally realised. Offering is about lifting people’s spirits, strengthening hearts and feeding souls—I was born to do this!’ Murray’s vision behind Offering is, of course, ‘the artists of our time performing the music of all time’. With every recording and visual artist not only participating in the project for free,
‘YOU ARE HELPING MAKE GOD’S LOVE VISIBLE.’ but also foregoing any future royalties, The Salvation Army is privileged to have been chosen as the recipient of all proceeds now and in the future. As Murray explained this, a standing ovation was the enthusiastic response from the 500 guests. A spectacular line-up of performances peppered the evening as various Offering artists took the stage. Wooed on stage by Petra for a brief interview, Stan Walker poignantly suggested that, ‘It’s the perfect time for this generation to learn where we come from and whom we come from. There’s so much whakapapa in these hymns.’ During the launch we crossed live to Seven Sharp for Dave Dobbyn’s performance of the 1779 hymn ‘Amazing Grace’. Dave sang alone, centre stage, dwarfed by a visual recording of the accompanying Wellington City Corps Band, resplendent in red, on the screen behind him. Dave, who Petra dubbed ‘the darling of New Zealand music’, has referred to Salvation Army brass band music as one of Aotearoa’s ‘iconic’ sounds. As the two performed together, the power and truth of both those descriptions strongly resonated around Holy Trinity Cathedral. ‘Thank you for your passion and tenacity,’ Territorial Commander Commissioner Andy Westrupp said, when addressing Murray and Tim. Andy acknowledged the generosity of the musicians and artists saying, ‘You are helping make God’s love visible. We, as The Salvation Army, are deeply humbled to be recipients of the resources flowing from this wonderful project.’ Andy then presented Murray and Tim with mere pounamu. Captain Hana Seddon explained that greenstone is the most precious of gifts in te o Māori, and therefore an appropriate expression of reciprocity for the gift The Salvation Army was receiving on behalf of the many New Zealanders who would benefit from Offering for years to come. This presentation was followed by a stirring ‘I’ll Fight’ haka; with Petra stating that the Offering hymns are taonga for our nation. The Salvation Army Kapa Haka group was then joined on stage by Offering artists for a spine-tingling waiata. For us as The Salvation Army, Offering is a stunning gift of generosity—a blessing from God that will enable us to continue to do what we do best. It also celebrates our heritage as a nation under God. Statistically, we may be an increasingly secular society, but passion was evident as artists sang the timeless truths of these hymns. Coupled with the response to Offering by New Zealanders, it suggests that a deep spirituality still exists among Kiwi.
Dave Dobbyn (left) and Murray Thom (right)
Wellington City Corps Band
Tim Harper
MC Petra Bagust (left) and Stan Walker
The Salvation Army Kapa Haka group
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Foodbank Project Hits $1 Million Mark New Zealand’s only online foodbank has just ticked over $1 million in donations.
Chaplains Without Borders After the recent Christchurch mosque shootings, Salvation Army chaplain Major Glenton Waugh visited Masjid Al Noor, along with Gregory Fortuin of Education and Employment. ‘They were just about to have their prayers, so we were invited in. Gregory said to the Iman, “How are you getting on spiritually?” So here is a Christian talking to a Muslim, asking about their spiritual walk,’ says Glenton, National Mission Director. ‘That’s chaplaincy—it’s about helping people to connect with their spirituality, whatever form that is.’ We are chaplains without borders. A big part of chaplaincy is ‘sowing the seed and allowing the Holy Spirit to water it,’ he says. Glenton was the first chaplain present at the Civil Defence bunker after the Kaikoura earthquakes. He was also called in as a chaplain after two men had been working in a remote area of Pauatahanui. One of the men collapsed, and the other had to do CPR until the ambulance arrived—but it was too late, and the man died. ‘It’s a matter of sitting down with the person and letting them tell their story. I’m here to listen, I tell them, “I’m not a counsellor, but I’m like a safety valve”. You encourage them and give them some advice on healthy ways to process it. You help the person realise they did everything they could. You are validating what they have experienced— it’s their story and that is so important. ‘Chaplaincy is 90 percent listening, and Salvation Army 10 percent chaplain Major talking,’ adds Glenton Waugh Glenton. 16 WarCry 01 JUNE 2019
Chaplaincy happens in a wide variety of settings within The Salvation Army—as well as working in all of our social services, there are also chaplains in sports, schools, the military, police, and even a racing chaplain. Majors Clive and Lesley Nicolson are chaplains for Hospice Marlborough, where they deal with heart-breaking situations every day. As part of the Family Support and Bereavement team, they work not only with the patient, but with their families as well. ‘We often think that grief only happens when we have lost a loved one, but in reality, it begins the moment we think we are going to lose something precious to us. Our role is to help people adjust to the new reality and prepare for what is to come,’ reflects Clive. ‘Our aim is to bring a sense of peace amongst the reality of loss and grief.’ A good chaplain is completely trustworthy, unshockable, a good listener, can be impartial and has a strong faith, says Glenton. ‘Foundations for Chaplaincy’ is a short course being held at Booth College of Mission from 2–5 July. It will cover the role of a chaplain, self-awareness and respect, establishing and building relationships, communication and listening, and other important chaplaincy skills. If you feel a calling to care for others through chaplaincy, talk to your corps officer about attending. ‘Chaplaincy is unlimited,’ says Glenton. ‘Where did Jesus go? He was in a boat, on the beach, on the mountain top, in the market place, by a well in a foreign land … Chaplaincy is about being there for people, where they are at.’ Foundations for Chaplaincy 2–5 July Booth College of Mission
Since its launch over three years ago, The Foodbank Project has provided more than 33,000 food parcels and other essentials for Kiwi in need. Introduced in late 2015 as a joint initiative betwen The Salvation Army, Nelson-based developers Lucid and Countdown supermarket, it aimed to provide a modern solution to the topping up of local food banks—a concept that would work alongside traditional donation bins. The millionth dollar was donated on 7 April by Shayna YoungCarroll, a 24-year-old Christchurch nurse who’s so far donated more than $700. She heard about the project from Instagram influencer Rebecca Kiel and has gone on to donate over $700 worth of sanitary projects. ‘Sanitary items are a necessity for all women, and they should be able to access this regardless of cost. Hence why I chose to donate towards providing sanitary items to the foodbank,’ Shayna says. ‘One thing I like about The Foodbank Project is you can choose where you want to donate your money. For me, I chose to donate sanitary items to hopefully break down barriers for women to access them.’ Shayna was thrilled to hear so many had got behind the initiative, something that was ‘as easy as online shopping’. ‘Yet you are looking beyond yourself and looking out for others in your community,’ she says.
‘I also think it’s cool how an everyday kiwi like myself can be a part of something that is having such positive effects for others.’ Countdown’s General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Safety and Sustainability says the response to The Foodbank Project has been incredible—a true testament to Kiwi ingenuity and collaboration. ‘Bringing food donations into the online age was something we’d all thought about doing but it’s tricky to line up the technology, the food and the distribution network. Through our partnership with Lucid and The Salvation Army we’ve been able to make it happen, and New Zealanders have responded with incredible generosity,’ Kiri says. Salvation Army’s Territorial Director of Community Ministries Jono Bell says for most foodbanks the weekly deliveries from the Foodbank Project is the one certainty they have, which allows food to go to some of New Zealand’s most vulnerable families. ‘We rely on the donations and generosity of New Zealanders to keep our foodbanks stocked, and I’ve seen first-hand how an empty foodbank is restocked after their Foodbank Project delivery and the impact that makes. ‘The Foodbank Project is an extraordinary resource that not only provides our hubs with certainty, but enables us to ask for items that are needed, in an easy way.’ The initiative enables people to choose from a range of products critically needed for food parcels. They can also make one-off or recurring donations. Countdown will then pack and deliver the donated items to the nearest Salvation Army foodbank hub to include in their food parcels.
www.foodbank.org.nz
Community, Competition and a Cat: Sevens 2019 This year’s Sevens competitions in Taupō and Tīmaru continued to build on the tradition of past years. Midland Division hosted the North Island event— celebrating over 30 years of friendly competition among corps and centres. What began in 1988 as an event for corps in Midland, soon branched out to include Northern and Central divisions. This year, 21 teams competed in four disciplines (touch, football, netball and volleyball) across social, recreational and competitive grades. Teams came from as far away as Kaitaia and Miramar and included two teams from Epsom Lodge in Auckland. It’s not the first time Epsom Lodge has fielded teams, but this year they put a real focus on how they played. They were hoping to win the fair play award. ‘We instantly have it going against us when we turn up with tattoos all over us and [Department of Corrections] bracelets on our ankles,’ said Auxiliary Captain Eric Turner. It turned out they didn’t even issue a fair play award this year, laughed Eric, so he issued everyone with one when they got back to Epsom Lodge. This year’s wooden spoon award was given to the team ‘Extreme Sweaty Try-Hards’ from Albany Bays Corps, who managed to lose every single game— mostly on purpose so they could take home the trophy. ‘Jimz Nuggz’ (Wellington City Corps) won the recreational grade, with the social grade being won by a hybrid team from Taupō and BMAC. Best Dressed was won by ‘Owairaka’ (Mt Albert Corps) and the competitive grade winners were Porirua Corps. The focus for the event this year was a renewed emphasis on community, said Lt Jordan Westrupp, Divisional
Youth Secretary (DYS) for Midland. The competition draw was simpler and there were fewer sports. There was also a bouncy castle for the kids who weren’t old enough to play. ‘We wanted to throwback to memories of when the event first started—people got to play sports and connect with other Salvationists from across the North Island,’ said Jordan. The Southern Sevens tournament is held in Tīmaru each year, roughly the half way point for corps in the South Island. This year’s weather was spectacular and there was a great atmosphere of friendly competition and participation by everyone involved. Teams competed against each other in touch, volleyball, netball and soccer. It’s a round robin tournament before the top four teams compete in semi-finals and a final to determine the overall winner. Southern DYS Major Alison Moody was grateful for everyone who travelled from across the division to make the day such a success. ‘It is such a team effort and a special shout-out goes to Nigel De Maine who sorted the draw and kept a track of the leader board,’ said Alison. The overall winner was ‘Christchurch City Avengers’, with ‘Sydenham Horsing Around’ getting runner up. The fair play award went to junior team Christchurch City Justice League. The school cat was the unofficial MVP of the day. 01 JUNE 2019 WarCry 17
Brass Academy Camp a Time of Worship In April, 100 young people and leaders from around the territory came together for the annual brass band camp. Young people from brass academy programmes across New Zealand came for four days of learning about God, brass band playing, teaching, fun and community at the Academy Camp. Salvation Army Academies and Just Brass programmes throughout New Zealand focus on kids from local communities and schools, and give them the opportunity to learn a brass instrument and find out about God. Alongside the Academy Band was The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Youth Band. The Youth Band welcomed 11 new players to the group off the back of its international trip to the USA in January. Guests for the weekend were Kevin and Jacqui Larsson, along with their two sons from the USA Western Territory. They came and shared a wealth of both spiritual and musical knowledge with the young people and leaders. Their contribution to the camp was greatly appreciated by all who attended. The two bands received musical teaching from both Kevin and Jacqui, with the Youth Band playing two of Kevin’s pieces of music at the camp concert—which was open to family, friends, supporters and the public. The concert featured bands from the Academy group and the Youth Band and showcased the hard work that had been put in throughout the camp. It was an amazing time being able to GAZETTE Bereaved: Major Anthony Stone of his mother Pauline Frances Stone from Wellington on 2 May 2019, aged 98. Please uphold Majors Anthony and Gaynor Stone and other family members in prayer during this time of grief and loss. Promotion to Glory: Major Jan Impey from Auckland, on 12 May 2019, aged 68 years. Janet (Jan) Farebrother was born in Luton, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom on 7 June 1950. In 1971, Jan married Melvyn (Mel) Impey in the UK. They moved to New Zealand in 1973, settling in Auckland as soldiers of the Newton Corps. Jan and Mel entered officer training in 1980 with the God’s Soldiers session. After their commissioning on 16 January 1982, Jan and Mel were appointed Assistant Officers, Tauranga Corps. Corps Officer appointments followed to Te Awamutu in 1983 and to Kaitaia in 1985. Jan and Mel transferred to the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland in 1985 where they served in England as Corps Officers at Birmingham Erdington Corps, Kidsgrove Corps, and Watford Citadel Corps. In 1989, Jan was appointed to Fundraising Development, Public Relations Department, International Headquarters, and in 1990 as Public Relations Officer, United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland Territorial Headquarters. In 1993, Jan and Mel returned to New Zealand and served as the Corps Officers at Kāpiti Corps, Lower Hutt Corps, and New Lynn Corps. In 1999, Jan was appointed to Community and Family Services, Auckland City, as Assistant Officer with the additional appointment as Referral Officer for Independent Living Units. In 2001, Jan’s ministry evolved out of her developing passion for the homeless and marginalised in Auckland and she was given responsibility for Inner City Ministry, Auckland. Jan and Mel were appointed to the Midland Division in 2002 and were based in Hamilton until 2011. Jan’s appointments during those years were Divisional Assistant, Midland Divisional Headquarters, with an additional appointment as Silver Star Secretary; Extension Ministries Officer, The Nest Community and Family Services; and
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worship God through music throughout the camp, and enable and lead others in worship at the camp concert. Other features of camp included night church, where Jacqui brought a powerful gospel message, and a quiz night. Band Camp 2019 was a highlight for kids from across the territory and we were blessed by the ministry of the Larssons. It is with excitement that we look forward to the ministry continuing through the brass programmes week-to-week, and we are excited for Band Camp 2020! BY KATE GEDDES
Chaplain Body ’n Soul Ministries, Hamilton City Corps. In 2011, Jan and Mel moved to Christchurch. Jan served as Assistant Officer Supportive Accommodation, Addington, and the Bridge, Christchurch. In 2013, Jan was appointed as Court Officer, Auckland District Court. Jan entered retirement from this appointment on her 68th birthday on 7 June 2018. Please remember in prayer Major Mel Impey, their children Rachel and Andrew, the grandchildren and other members of the extended family during this time of grief and loss. Well done, good and faithful servant! Resignation: Effective 19 May 2019, Captain Debbie Wilson. Debbie completed her officer training in the Australian Southern Territory. Since her commissioning in November 2008 Debbie had appointments in the Australia Southern Territory as a Corps Officer; Professional Standards Officer in the Personnel Department, THQ; Assistant Officer, Secretary for Personnel, THQ; and Chaplaincy. In January 2017, Debbie transferred to the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa Territory where she was appointed National Mission Coordinator, ASARS. This was followed by an appointment as Corps Officer, Kilbirnie Corps in January 2019. We thank Captain Debbie Wilson for her ministry and service and pray God’s blessing on her in the days ahead. Resignation: Effective 28 June 2019, Major Nicola Rogers. Following her commissioning on 17 January 1993 Nicola was appointed to Community and Family Services, Porirua, followed by an appointment to Community and Family Services, Manukau. Nicola then served in corps appointments at Rangiora (1998), Napier (2000), and Mana Corps (2008). Nicola has had a range of other appointments during her 26 years 5 months of service: Employment Plus Chaplain, Napier; Administrative Assistant, Programme Department, THQ; Outer Circle Home League Secretary, THQ; Assistant Officer followed by Mission Director, Bridge Programme, Christchurch; and Assistant Officer, Supportive Accommodation, Addington, Christchurch. We thank Major Nicola Rogers for her ministry and service and pray God’s blessing on her in the days ahead.
Sallies’ Annual Ski Sale Breaks Records People lined up around the block for the Annual Ski Sale at the Queenstown Family Store, on Monday, 15 April. A hardy crowd of close to 300 braved the chilly morning to be first in the door to grab a bargain when the store opened at 9am. The annual sale, which has been going since 2001, broke previous records—with an estimated thousand people through the door, said Queenstown Corps Officer Lieutenant Andrew Wilson. ‘The Salvation Army was overwhelmed with the popularity and support of the community,’ he said. It took two months of preparation for the mega sale. Each year, experienced ski instructors come in as staff to help sort out all the ski gear—from gloves to skis and snowboards. They check each item and use their industry knowledge to price them. ‘The store is transformed into a full-blown skiers’ paradise. Customers can get nearly-new items at a giveaway price,’ said Andrew. Proceeds from the Ski Sale go directly back into the community to support those in need around New Zealand and as far away as the Pacific Islands. ‘We want to thank those who donated the thousands of items that made this year’s sale an outstanding success. ‘By donating goods, and shopping at The Salvation Army Family Stores around New Zealand, you’re helping some of society’s most vulnerable,’ said Andrew.
‘IT HELPS TO HAVE A “LIFE G.P.S.” TO GIVE US TRUE AND CORRECT INSTRUCTIONS’ Do you remember when we used to carry maps in the car? Finding our way around an unfamiliar place meant studying the map, committing the directions to memory, and then numerous stops along the way to check the map. Then a wonderful thing happened—GPS was invented and maps were replaced by a calm and knowledgeable voice, giving instructions as we drive. The GPS voice is so confident, so calm and so precise: ‘In 300 metres turn left and you will arrive at number 14 on the right’. Being human, and wanting to make our own decisions, we don’t always trust the voice. Sometimes we think, ‘That’s not right, I think it’s this way instead’. We do what we want, because we know the voice is wrong. The voice then speaks very calmly, ‘Recalculating … make a U turn’. It doesn’t say ‘I told you to turn left, you idiot! You think I’m going to help you now!’ No, the voice is calm and clear. The voice is full of grace. Life is a journey we need to negotiate. When we have choices about what direction to take, it helps to have wise advice. It helps to have a ‘life GPS’ to give us true and correct instructions about how to live. God has given us this advice. It’s recorded in the Bible. Some of these instructions are easy to follow, and we do so. But sometimes we want to make our own decisions—we don’t want to follow, we want to be in control. We think we can do something else and things will be fine, then God’s voice calmly tells us to turn and follow his instructions. His voice is calm and full of grace. As we follow God’s directions, the Holy Spirit works in our lives to bring transformation. To change us from the inside, through spiritual renewal. The Salvation Army views this spiritual transformation as important and so we focus on it in our mission statement. At this time in our territory, we want to refocus on transformation and spiritual renewal. We believe God is calling us to turn our attention to him and his direction for our lives, and to seek encounters with the Holy Spirit. As we do this and follow God’s leading, we will stay on track in our life journey and experience ongoing transformation. To further help us in this, the territory has planned some specific New Zeal events where we expect to encounter God. Look out for 9 June in Napier, 11 August in Christchurch and 4–6 October in Wellington (Territorial Congress). Be present in person, or via livestream, so you have the opportunity to experience a transformational encounter with God. Commissioner Yvonne Westrupp Territorial President of Women’s Ministries 01 JUNE 2019 WarCry 19
The End of Life Choice Bill: What Should We Think? New Zealand’s ‘End of Life Choice Bill’ came before Parliament last month, which will ramp up the debate around euthanasia in the coming months. But what should we think about it? MASIC (The Salvation Army’s Moral and Social Issues Committee) has prepared this response to a very 21st century problem … Human beings have always had a complicated relationship with pain—it seems to both degrade and affirm our experience of life. No one seeks pain. It is tiring and debilitating and yet it is what gives words like ‘courage’ and ‘empathy’ meaning. The elimination of pain threatens to make those terms meaningless. Never in human history has suffering been more readily relieved than today. And yet, paradoxically, we have never been more afraid of suffering.
How did we get here? It seems unusual that when pain management was at its least developed there was little call for legalised euthanasia and assisted suicide. Yet, at its most developed, the call for legalisation is at its most insistent. 20 WarCry 01 JUNE 2019
Bioethicist Yuval Levin suggests that this is because society has moved towards regarding the avoidance of suffering as a primary goal in life. That would be a significant shift in the way we view the purpose of life, and could explain why there are now calls for the legalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide. Generally accepted primary goals of life have a significant influence on which choices a society will and will not allow. If a primary goal of life is to support people as they live their life to its natural end, it would not be surprising to see pain reduction as a beneficial tool and effective and universal palliative care as its most developed expression. But if a primary goal of life is to avoid suffering at all costs, then it would not be surprising to see society making euthanasia and assisted suicide legally available.
What the public said … This is the very debate that is swirling around us, with the proposed ‘End of Life Choice Bill’ having its second reading in Parliament last month.
In August 2017, a report summarised submissions made to the Parliamentary Health Select Committee regarding the bill. These were some of the main issues that emerged regarding euthanasia: Dignity: Some people define ‘dignity’ as ‘the ability to look after themselves and maintain their independence’. They are concerned that becoming a ‘burden’ would diminish their sense of self-worth. Others argued that this perspective undermines the idea of human dignity, by equating an individual’s worth with their ability to contribute to society. Such a view would be particularly concerning for disabled people, because their lives might be seen as having less value. The elderly may also feel they should seek an earlier death so as not to be a burden on family members. Pain and suffering: Some people recounted stories of family and friends who had died in pain over extended periods of time in hospital. They expressed regret about this suffering. Others expressed the fear that they might experience pain and suffering in the future.
Amongst the submissions, medical and health practitioners said that no one should be dying in pain in New Zealand in the 21st century. Several hospices made submissions on the nature of pain and suffering. They argued that the very nature of hospice care and the underlying philosophy of neither hastening death nor prolonging life preclude the use of euthanasia and assisted suicide.
‘Safeguards’: Most people making submissions identified the need for safeguards—but many of these were simply eligibility criteria. Some people questioned whether formulating effective safeguards was actually possible: How will other vulnerable members of society, such as the disabled and elderly, be protected from the perceived value of their lives being eroded by the legalisation of euthanasia?
Autonomy: Some people placed a high value on their own autonomy and desired the right to end their life at the time of their choosing. Other people argued that in a society, individual autonomy is frequently limited for the good of all members of that society. Public safety was frequently cited as a reason why assisted dying could not be legalised. It was also noted that the individual’s right to autonomy must be balanced against the effects that euthanasia and assisted suicide could have on others, such as patients’ families and vulnerable members of society.
A biblical perspective
The ‘slippery slope’: People making submissions, regardless of their views, were concerned about the ‘slippery slope’ effect—a tendency for assisteddying laws to widen beyond the initial intentions. One of the more extreme examples is what happened in Belgium, which initially legalised euthanasia only for terminal cases, but the scope was quickly broadened, and between 2002– 2015 the number of people annually euthanised rose from 24 to 2021. Other people argued that changes in scope are part of the democratic process, and that an increase in such deaths only demonstrates public awareness and acceptance over time. The role of medical professionals: The Health Select Committee heard from the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) that although patients have a right to autonomy in their healthcare choices, ethical and societal considerations inherently limit personal autonomy. Assisted dying or euthanasia does not only involve a patient’s own personal autonomy, it necessarily also requires the involvement of a health practitioner. The NZMA believes assisting dying is incompatible with medical ethics.
The debate around euthanasia is influenced by society’s primary goals of life, but from a Christian perspective, what does the Bible say about the purpose of life? From the very beginning, humans are regarded as part of God’s creation, and commanded to be good stewards of that creation (Gen 1:26–31). We are created in God’s image and we are to reflect that image. God is love and we reflect that love by loving others. This includes supporting and encouraging each other in times of trouble: ‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God,’ says 2 Corinthians 1:3–4. We are also created for God’s glory. Our purpose is to praise God, worship him, to proclaim his greatness, and to accomplish his will. This is what glorifies God. ‘So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God,’ says 1 Corinthians 10:31. The Bible witnesses to the sovereignty of God. Psalm 139:16 says that ‘all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be’. The Bible consistently upholds the sanctity of human life, which is in God’s hands, and asks us to comfort each other in our suffering. The Salvation Army has put out a positional statement on euthanasia, saying that it believes all people deserve to have their suffering minimised in every possible way, consistent with the sanctity of life. All human beings are made in the image of God, sacred and with an eternal destiny. Accordingly, all
HOW WILL VULNERABLE MEMBERS OF SOCIETY, SUCH AS THE DISABLED AND ELDERLY, BE PROTECTED FROM THE PERCEIVED VALUE OF THEIR LIVES BEING ERODED … ? people have dignity and worth whatever their circumstances. The Army ‘believes strongly that all people deserve compassion and care in their suffering and dying. Euthanasia and assisted suicide should not, however, be considered acceptable responses. They undermine human dignity and are morally wrong. The Salvation Army believes therefore that euthanasia and assisted suicide should be illegal,’ says the statement.
An alternative Instead of euthanasia, fully developing the practice of palliative care would provide the most vulnerable in our society with the best possible holistic care. Modern palliative care is a comprehensive package of medical, social and spiritual care. The careful selection and application of the medical tools available to the specific needs of each person receiving care, means that almost all physical pain can be relieved effectively. When people are supported emotionally, socially and spiritually, all types of pain and suffering can become more bearable. Our goal should be to find compassionate ways to preserve the sanctity of life—right to the very end of life.
01 JUNE 2019 WarCry 21
OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Andy (Territorial Commander) and Yvonne Westrupp (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 9 June: New Zeal Pentecost Sunday Service, Napier Corps 13 June: Recovery Church, Wellington 15 June: Māori Ministry Council Hui, Wellington Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Secretary for Programme) 5–19 June: Footsteps of Paul Study Tour Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 9–10 June: Central Division Governance Board Visit, Wellington
PRAY Epsom Lodge in Auckland, Suva Central Corps, Sydenham Corps, Talasiu Corps, Tāupo Corps; The Salvation Army in Korea.
What A Ride!
Pentecost Sunday
by Judith Bennett
10am: Worship with Napier music team 10.30am: Captain Sammy Millar preaching.
A journey of unexpected turns and extraordinary adventures
COMING SOON To join us livestream at: newzeal.salvationarmy.org.nz/livestream
Want to Know More? I would like:
to learn about who Jesus is information about The Salvation Army The Salvation Army to contact me prayer for the following needs:
‘ … helping women who are on their journey of faith and brokenness. o encourage them that they are beautiful regardless.’
Palmerston North Corps women’s conference July 26-27 Speakers: Colonel Suzanne Fincham, Chief Secretary
Colonel Heather Rodwell,
Name
Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries
Sheryn Adamson, former police officer,
Address
infertility advocate and style consultant.
Phone Send to: warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz or War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141
To find out more, and register, go to:
somethingbeautiful2019.com
Quiz Answers: 1 Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, 2 Feijoa, 3 Seven—the same number as humans, 4 Warsaw, 5 Philippi (Acts 16: 15,40).
22 WarCry 01 JUNE 2019
Make a Windmill
A Pentecost Party!
When Jesus left, he told his disciples to go to Jerusalem and wait … but for what, they wondered? They all went from Galilee to Jerusalem—where people from all over the world came, speaking all sorts of different languages. One day, they got together as usual. Suddenly a sound like a roaring wind came from heaven and filled the whole house. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire, that separated and rested on each of them.
The Holy Spirit is like the wind—we can’t see him, but we can feel his presence. Make this special Pentecost windmill. You’ll need: • Scissors • A push pin • A pencil with an eraser at the end 1. Cut out the square, and cut down the scissor marks on each corner. 2. Fold every second corner into the centre. 3. Put a push pin through the paper.
God is so amazing that the Bible is full of lots of ways to describe him. Why do you think the Holy Spirit is described like a ... ? Fire: (Hint: Fire gives us warmth and light. How is God like fire?)
Wind: Hint: It can be both wild and gentle. Is this like God?
Water:
4. Push the pin loosely into the eraser at the top of your pencil.
Hint: It’s essential for life to grow. How does God help us grow?
5. Now blow on it or go out into the wind and see what happens! (If it doesn’t move freely, try making the pin a bit looser).
A Dove: Hint: After Noah’s flood the dove signalled new life. What does new life mean to you?
Colour these in!
They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk about the wonders of God in languages they had never learnt! People outside heard the commotion and came into the house. ‘How on earth do you speak my language?’ They asked. ‘You come from Galilee!’ Then the disciple Peter stood up, and in a loud voice told everyone gathered about how Jesus had died and risen again. ‘If you believe in Jesus, you, too, will receive the Holy Spirit!’ he said. That day more than 3000 people decided to follow Jesus—it was the beginning of the Christian church. That’s why on 9 June, we celebrate Pentecost Sunday. When you decide to follow Jesus, he promises to give us a helper, called the Holy Spirit. We can’t see him, but we feel his presence guiding our hearts and minds. It’s like always having a friend with you, where ever you go! HAVE YOU EVER …
Felt God’s presence telling you something or helping you? That is the Holy Spirit! 01 JUNE 2019 WarCry 23
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever —the Spirit of truth … I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live,’ Jesus. John 14:16-19
Holy Spirit we welcome you. Pentecost Sunday, 9 June