20 March 2021 NZFTS War Cry

FAITH IN ACTION 20 MARCH 2021 | Issue 6763 | $1.50

In Your Corner: Boxing and Building Communities of Champion People International Day of Prayer for Children and Youth Stronger Together: Gender Equity Shayne Thompson: A Regular Guy With an Extraordinary Ministry

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WAR CRY The Salvation Army

New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Julie & Mark Campbell | 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.

EDITOR Vivienne Hill | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Lauren Millington | STAFF WRITERS Holly Morton, Louise Parry, Bethany Slaughter | PROOF READING Major Colleen

Marshall OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street,

PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department, Phone

(04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT 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.

Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.

All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated.

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Soli Deo Gloria!

On the email signature of Salvation Army’s policy analyst, Ronji Tanielu (Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit), I noticed the Latin phrase Soli Deo Gloria! It means: Glory to God Alone!

This motto is directly linked to the Protestant Reformation, where Christianity was summarised by five Sola Scriptura: we are saved by Christ alone, by faith alone, by grace alone, Scripture alone is our final authority and all Glory belongs to God alone. Not only was the Latin phrase notable in the Reformation, but it was also used as a ‘signature’ at the end of famous artistic works and compositions in the past.

In 1741, German-born composer, George Handel, was asked to undertake a benefit concert in Dublin. He worked feverishly day and night for three weeks on a new oratorio called the Messiah. Once he had finished the score, he wrote Soli Deo Gloria at the bottom of the work and exclaimed, ‘I think God has visited me’.

Although the composition is traditionally linked to Christ’s birth at Christmas, only a third of Messiah is about the birth. The second and third act are about the death and resurrection of Jesus. As such, the oratorio was originally written as a work for Easter and was premiered during Lent.

The church is now preparing for the time leading up to Easter and we will soon celebrate Palm Sunday and Holy Week. This season, just like the famous artistic offerings of the past, may we too bring glory to God alone, and, as you read about the lives of our people in this edition of War Cry, you will see lives who have and are bringing glory to God alone.

Vivienne Hill Editor

Articles are copyrighted to The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and may be reprinted only with permission.

Publishing for 137 years | Issue 6763 ISSN 0043-0242 (print), ISSN 2537-7442 (online) Please pass on or recycle this magazine Read online issuu.com/salvationarmynzftwarcry

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2 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

Prayer is not learned in a classrom but in the closet.

E. M. Bounds

James 3:18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

Hemi 3:18 Ā, e ruia ana ngā hua o te tika i roto i te rangimārie mā te hunga hohou rongo.

S

unday March 28 is The Salvation Army’s International Day of Prayer for Children and Youth. The 2021 theme is ‘Seen and Heard’—understanding that children are full and active members of the Body of Christ and encouraging us to pray that they would all have opportunity and respect in our communities.

Coincidentally, this week we also mark one year since New Zealand was forced into nationwide lockdown. Now that we are embedded in our new normal, it is hard to remember that afternoon in March 2020, when we rushed home to kit out temporary home offices, scramble for necessary groceries, and perhaps soak up some last moments of time outdoors.

No one can argue that Covid-19 negatively impacted children in our own territory, and our natural tendency is to turn our attention and zero-in on those immediate effects which are right in front of our noses. However, all around the globe (including, undoubtedly, in pockets of our territory) the catastrophe of modern slavery and human trafficking (MSHT) has also shapeshifted because of the pandemic. It is an issue which already goes unnoticed, unseen and unheard far too often, but Covid-19 has further disguised and muffled its operations.

Children make up a third of MSHT victims.

In May 2020, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime released a report titled, ‘Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Trafficking in Persons’.

It found that as countries one by one closed their borders and locked down in response to the virus, the danger for people vulnerable to MSHT increased.

‘Children are at heightened risk of exploitation, especially since school closures have not only precluded many from access to education but also

from a main source of shelter and nourishment.

In some countries, because of the pandemic, more children are forced onto the streets in search of food and income, heightening their risk of infection and exploitation,’ it read.

‘In an environment where priorities and actions are geared towards limiting the spread of the virus,’ the report continued, ‘it is easier for traffickers to hide their operations, making victims increasingly invisible. Identification of victims and subsequent referral to social protection schemes may therefore become more challenging.’

In these scenarios, heartbreakingly, it is becoming easier for these children to go unseen and unheard.

Even though we may feel geographically removed from the problem, this week is a reminder that we can do our part to make sure these victims are seen and heard by utilising the power of prayer.

Prayer is one of the eight points specified in The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission’s ‘Fight for Freedom’ strategy to combat MSHT. We can pray that more children are rescued. We can pray for their mental, emotional, spiritual and physical healing. That they will go on to live beautiful, full lives, free of violence. We can pray for the not-for-profit organisations working on the ground, as they too adjust to new parameters.

We can pray for transformative change in the hearts of the perpetrators of this violence.

We can also pray that our eyes and ears will continue to be opened to injustices around us, and that if there is ever a moment where we can do something, we will have the wisdom and courage to use it well.

BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER 20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 3

OURPEOPLE

Lt-Colonel Milton Collins, Territorial Overseas Development and Support Secretary Milton has been an officer for 27 years along with his wife Michelle, and has a passion for photography. Milton has recently taken on the role of managing our response to The Salvation Army’s international projects and mission to developing countries around the world.

Alongside this, Milton is currently working on a strategy that better supports Fiji, Tonga and Samoa. Then there’s the amazing Sponsorship programme for children, which successfully assists children in 17 countries with education, medica needs, food and clothing in Salvation Army-based centres. He is currently working on the Self Denial Appeal and the ‘Just Gifts’ programme, so watch this space for new developments that you can be part of.

Band Camp 2021

Podcast The Holy Post Podcast

by Sky Pilot Media and Phil Vischer Enterprises I didn’t grow up with VeggieTales, so my introduction to the mind of Phil Vischer (VeggieTales co-creator and the main creative force behind The Holy Post) was as a result of stumbling across his podcast. From that moment, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the creativity and storytelling ability that his assembled crew possess. In a time when cultural analysis by Christians is increasingly polarised, this podcast is a breath of fresh air with their engagement with politics, entertainment and the mission of the church. They interview people from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences (recent guests include rapper Lecrae and a strategist in the George W Bush White House), with an aim to show how God can be at work on both sides of the political divide. (Reviewed by Sam Coates)

QUIKQUIZ

1 What type of sugar is found in milk?

2 Who voiced Mrs Potts in the 1991 version of Beauty and the Beast?

3 Antananarivo is the capital of what country?

4 What 1970s TV series was set in Walnut Grove, Minnesota?

5 In the biblical dream of a Midianite soldier, what tumbled into the Midianite camp and flattened a tent?

Answers on page 22 4 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

Recently, the 2021 Salvation Army Band Camp was held at Silverstream Retreat.

The rehearsal weekend is a highlight each year, as it gives us a chance to meet, play and share in fellowship with people, which is especially important now because of lockdowns.

Each year the camp is attended by both The Salvation Army Youth Band and the Academy Band.

This year the entire group headed out to Adrenalin Forest, a high ropes course, which was a lot of fun. My personal highlight of the camp was the devotions given at the end of each rehearsal.

Our conductor, Duncan Horton, emailed a number of esteemed composers and conductors from all over the globe, many of whom we met during our recent trip to Los Angeles. He asked if they would record and send a testimony/devotion for us to view at camp. We received a large number of responses from people, such as

TOPFIVE

Are you interested in learning more about ethical fashion and making sustainable decisions when purchasing clothes this year?

Here are five resources to get you started.

1. T earfund Ethical Fashion Guide and Report—tearfund.org.nz/ethicalfashion 2. B aptist World Aid Ethical Fashion Report and Ethical Fashion Guide— baptistworldaid.org.au/resources/ethicalfashion-guide/ 3. G ood on You app—goodonyou.eco/ 4. F ashion Revolution Instagram account— instagram.com/fash_rev/ 5. The True Cost documentary (directed by Andrew Morgan)—truecostmovie.com/ watch-now/

WARCRYINHISTORY

This week’s War Cry in History photograph comes Weird of the Week: Saint Lucia is the only country from the 6 May 1944 edition. named after a woman, because on the feast day These Red Shield Mobile of Saint Lucy on 13 December, the French arrived.

Clubs visited servicewomen who were stationed in isolated places around Britain, carrying a library, sewing machine, Ken Waterworth, the conductor of the Australian Youth electric iron and things which women Band; and Kevin Larsson, a famous composer from around the country needed at that time. the United States who came out to our camp in 2019.

Source: The Heritage Centre & Archives at My favourite was Stephen Cobb, the conductor of the the Ploughman Resource Centre, Booth College of Mission Salvation Army International Staff Band, who we were fortunate enough to have call-in live. Each message was extremely powerful and resonated with us in a number of ways, and brought to mind just how powerful the art of music can be as an offering.

The weekend really challenged us to look at ourselves as musicians and reflect on the reason why we play. We really enjoyed the camp with the band this year and we look forward to going to other corps and sharing the word of God with them through music.

By Jonty Zydeonbos, Soprano Cornet, National Youth Band

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3 dates, fresh 1 dash vanilla

Source: Dr Libby Weaver/eatwell.co.nz

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 5

y t i l a u Eq in the Call to n o i s s i M

The Salvation Army has a strong legacy of speaking up for the rights of underrepresented people from its formative years, particularly for women, through the Army Mother, Catherine Booth.

BY HOLLY MORTON

C

atherine Booth was a capable and articulate speaker and a firm advocate for women’s suitability for preaching, believing that women also heard from God and could speak on his behalf. Her defence of the rights of women within the church paved the way for the present-day Salvation Army. In our territory, her work is being continued by the territorial Gender Equity Committee and Australia’s first—and now former—Advocate for Gender Equity, Commissioner Julie Campbell.

Gender equity conversation The Army has for a long time been at the forefront of supporting women in leadership roles within the church, but it seems as though this has slowed down in recent years. Internationally, The Salvation Army is prioritising the gender equity conversation, recognising that by improving opportunities for women we can strengthen their capacity to care for others, transform lives and reform society by God’s power. Julie recognises the balance that comes with the history of The Salvation Army. ‘We’re grateful for the past, and we’re grateful for the people who have gone before us. We want to make sure that as we move into the future we are an Army that truly brings life, and people flourish within The Salvation Army and in our ministry to the community.’

The territory’s Gender Equity Committee is relatively new on the scene, having launched in September of 2020, although discussions have been held for many years. The Gender Equity Committee currently has ten people from the Army, both officers and staff, who feed into work that is happening in the territory. In its development stage, the committee sent out a survey across the territory to get an idea of both the strengths and the gaps within The Salvation Army around improving gender equality. It would be easy to assume that the experiences of those on the committee represent the territory as a whole, but they are committed to hearing from a wide range of voices in our Army to determine what goals need to be set and policies put in place.

Voices for equity The survey centres around opportunities for and attitudes towards women within The Salvation Army, including questions such as: ‘What is one thing in The Salvation Army that you would change when it comes to full, safe and equal opportunities for women?’, and, ‘Do you feel empowered to effect change in The Salvation Army’s culture when it comes to its attitudes towards women?’

The responses generated from this survey will allow the committee to make 20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 7

a plan for what they will focus on in the near future. There is the intention of sending out more focussed surveys as the committee gets underway.

Kirsty Ahern is on the Gender Equity Committee as a representative from the Human Resources department and feels privileged to be a part of the team. ‘I’ve been very fortunate in that my personal experience in The Salvation Army and as an officer’s kid has always been really positive and affirming of being a female. I’ve never been held back from any opportunities. While I believe there will be many other positive experiences for our women in valuing the skills and talents they bring, I do understand that sadly this will not be the case for everyone. As our committee has only recently been established, we are still working through where exactly the disadvantages are. I’m eager to gather all of this information so that the committee can progress to doing all we can to resolve these issues for people now and in the future.’ Kirsty hopes that the committee will be able to take practical steps to provide support and encourage change in addressing the issues that they encounter.

Julie sees the committee as holding an advisory role for Army governance and management. They will be working to have the conversations around what is going well and where there are further opportunities for growth. The goal on a structural level is to ensure that the current policies value equity and are providing the right services to the community.

The territorial statistics for The Salvation Army sit at around 70 percent of staff being women, and a pretty even 50/50 split for officers. Despite this, Julie says that approximately

THE ARMY HAS FOR A LONG TIME BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF SUPPORTING WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP ROLES WITHIN THE CHURCH, BUT IT SEEMS AS THOUGH THIS HAS SLOWED DOWN IN RECENT YEARS. 8 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

‘WE SEE THE NEED TO DEVELOP AND NURTURE THE CAPABILITIES AND CAPACITY OF OUR WOMEN AND THIS INCLUDES LOOKING AFTER WOMEN REPRESENTING CULTURAL DIVERSITY.’ 90 percent of territorial leadership roles internationally are held by men. Julie questions whether the Army’s leadership positions reflect this gender makeup and if the way the Army presents itself outwardly shows ‘that it’s a place for everyone’.

Equal opportunities Although The Salvation Army trains and commissions both men and women to all sorts of places internationally, Julie is aware of gaps in appointment opportunities for single and married women. ‘It’s often the men who have been developed or placed in appointments and then wives have been placed in a role that may not have been specifically suited to them, but is convenient. And the same with single women, because they don’t have a husband, sometimes they may have felt disadvantaged because they may have been overlooked as well.’

Often there are spaces for married couples to be appointed together and, in an ideal situation, both parties would be able to take on roles that work to their individual strengths.

While there have been examples of this, and there is still an encouraging gender balance in the overall appointment of officers in The Salvation Army, the use of default appointments can be particularly challenging for women in leadership.

Julie has experienced this difficulty first-hand in her appointment with her husband, Commissioner Mark Campbell.

‘Mark and I were commissioned together; we were married, and we went to training college together. And for all sorts of reasons, we’re so different, Mark trained and developed in one area and I’ve developed in the other, so we feel like we’ve developed our gifts and our strengths in the right ways. But there have been times where because of Mark’s appointment it’s almost like, “Well, what will we do with her?” Mark, at one

particular time, was in Public Relations for seven years and I had about three or four appointments in that time.’

In all the changes, there has been a lot of provision from God in those roles. ‘I’ve learnt heaps from being in an appointment which I didn’t feel equipped for, that’s where God enables me to discover things and learn different skills.’

However, Julie feels there needs to be people filling roles out of passion rather than expectation, particularly in Women’s Ministries. ‘For engaging, equipping and empowering women, you want your best people. You want someone who is absolutely sold out and so passionate about investing and being a voice for our women. It is vitally important to have the people with the right skills in those roles, not just because I’m married to someone and that’s why I get the role.’

Playing to our strengths The same holds true for other staffing and volunteer roles within The Salvation Army. Kirsty agrees that, ‘when filling a vacancy, for example, there needs to be good testing of people; someone who’s going into a role because of their calling, and because their capabilities make them the best candidate for the role. We see the need to develop and nurture the capabilities and capacity of our women and this includes looking after women representing cultural diversity. It’s balancing those two and it’s really important that we do that correctly.’

Julie explains that part of her passion for gender equity is scriptural. ‘In the New Testament, it talks about how we’re the Body of Christ. It talks about how you need every part of the body to work effectively and efficiently, so that’s what I want to see in The Salvation Army—that every part of the Body of Christ is working to their full potential. Not feeling like they’ve been undervalued or overlooked, unknown or unheard. When Jesus looks at us, because of the cross, there’s no one who’s better or more superior, in Christ he sees us all as part of his ministry and mission. That’s so important to us in our community.’

Working together In 1 Corinthians 12 it talks about this idea of the followers of God being of the same body, each with their own vital role to play in the movement of the body for the kingdom. The eye has to serve as an eye, and the heart as a heart, and Julie hopes for the same within The Salvation Army. ‘For our body to work well, every part has got to be healthy and well and strong. If one part of the body is aching, then it puts the rest of the body out and we’re not able to work to our full potential.’

Kirsty has recently undertaken some research around the distribution of leadership within The Salvation Army in this territory. Without including officers or volunteers, there are approximately 1310 women and 528 men employed by the Army. Across the territory, there are more women in managerial roles than men, although the opposite is true when you look at senior leadership positions, which is something both Kirsty and Julie are interested in addressing within the Gender Equity Committee. The recent shift into three main boards (Territorial Governance Board, Territorial Management Board and the Pastoral Committee) has resulted in an equal distribution on each board in terms of gender, whether an intentional decision or not.

Ongoing conversations The territory’s willingness to continue these conversations around equity and fairly representing the people we serve speaks to the character of The Salvation Army in the way it prioritises demonstrating God’s love by seeking justice for his people. Even with a strong history of modelling gender equity for other faith communities, Julie wonders what The Salvation Army would look like internationally if Catherine Booth had lived longer. If she had been able to continue her work of advocating for women’s voices to be heard, how would the shape of the Army appear now?

Kirsty hopes that the results of the initial gender equity survey will offer some jumping-off points for the committee.

‘I’m really hoping that for any issues found that this committee will be very proactive and very practical in being able to provide support as needed in order to fix those issues, because, finding out about it is one thing, and doing something about it is another.’ There is always more that can be done, and the Gender Equity Committee understands that equal opportunities for men and women is only one aspect of a wider commitment to equality within The Salvation Army. Beginning to recognise the needs of the community and hosting spaces for change is a promising start.

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 9

When Conversations Stall…

We’ve all been there—that tricky point where the talking stops and you both stand waiting, unsure of what to say next. Everybody hates an ‘awkward silence’, whether you are desperate to keep the conversation afloat or keen to get out as soon as possible. Especially if you are somebody who struggles with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), crippling shyness, or are at an event where you don’t know a soul, the art of chit-chat can be tough.

Here are some ideas to help you relate better in your next stilted conversation.

1. Identify the cause of the perceived awkwardness. This will help you find a solution.

2. Know it’s okay to have pauses—sometimes it’s appropriate.

You cannot expect to talk fluently with somebody who you do not have an established relationship with.

3. Find humour. Consider saying something to lighten the mood with a joke or story.

4. Offer a new topic. Plan go-to questions ahead of time.

Alternatively, ask them to help you solve a problem.

5. Listen and paraphrase. If you can’t think of how to reply, try reflecting what the other person is saying.

6. Agree to disagree if the conversation becomes tense.

Practise empathy, view the situation from their perspective and try to find a compromise.

7. If the conversation is turning sour or onto an uncomfortable topic, stand up for yourself. Tactfully redirect the discussion.

This can be as simple as, ‘I would rather not talk about that’.

8. Don’t judge if they seem awkward, nervous, afraid or uninterested. You don’t know what someone’s day has been like, or whether they have SAD or another condition which makes conversing tough for them too. Show genuine interest and try to find a mutual ground to make them feel comfortable.

9. Choose kindness. You might be talking to someone who is grieving or in pain. These conversations are likely to feel awkward, even forced. Acknowledge the subject with compassion and allow them to dictate what they are comfortable sharing.

10. Practise conversation skills before you leave the house.

If you find your anxiety is debilitating, consider speaking to a therapist who can offer new strategies.

10 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

If all else fails, exit the conversation gracefully. Thank the person for their time, summarise your conversation or, if necessary, excuse yourself (go to the bathroom or get a drink, for example).

There is no blueprint to perfect conversation. Even with lots of practice, sometimes people don’t click and connect. But as long as you show interest, listen intently and speak kindly, you are putting yourself in the best position to communicate.

GOOD CONVERSATION STARTERS Steer clear of topics that are awkward, boring, impersonal and/or offensive. Ask open-ended questions about something meaningful to the other person. Vanessa Van Edwards (LinkedIn) suggests these potential conversation starters.

What’s one thing you have always wanted to try?

Why haven’t you done it yet?

What has been the highlight of your year so far?

What do you daydream about?

If you could trade places with anyone for one week, who would it be?

What is something you have always wanted to learn?

What is your best memory?

What question have you always wanted to ask me?

Source: verywellmind.com

TESTIFY! Tana Konakava is a young musician and worship leader based out of The Salvation Army Westgate whose spiritual walk has gone hand in hand with his musical journey.

My younger brother started going to The Salvation Army way before I did.

I didn’t really want to go to church, because I’d been to one or two services and, back then, I used to get bored and just walk out. But our next-door neighbour invited me, my twin brother and my younger brother over to youth group at Westgate—that started my journey with God. From there, I started getting involved with music in youth bands. Then at Easter Camp, I had a moment with God and that’s where it started. Ever since then, it’s been growing and growing.

Now, all of us help out with community events that involve God—inside and outside of the church. I love spending time with my family, my friends and my partner. I study music at Excel School of Performing Arts, and I will finish my diploma this year. I am one of the instrumentalists for the worship band and I love what I do, playing for God. In terms of music, he’s really helped me with my ability to grow and adapt. He’s humbled my ability—not to overplay, not to shine through, just to sit back, relax and worship. It can be a handful sometimes because I play multiple instruments (guitar—both electric and acoustic—piano, bass, drums and, when needed, I’ll help the singers) so whatever I need to play, they’ll chuck me on. Learning how to apply the same skills that I know on guitar onto every instrument can be challenging sometimes, but I become more of an instrumentalist that relies on the Spirit, how the Spirit leads me during that time, and how I see that my playing for God can impact another one’s life. I love exploring new ways of worshipping.

MY MUSICAL JOURNEY HAS ALWAYS BEEN INTERTWINED WITH MY FAITH JOURNEY. Music is my calling—it hasn’t always been, but over these past few years it’s really grown on my heart. Being part of the worship team and studying at a Christian-based tertiary institution has really helped me gain the skills and knowledge I needed to grow—not only musically, but also spiritually—and I’m excited to learn more. My musical journey has always been intertwined with my faith journey.

My two biggest role models would be Nick Moffat and [Captain] Daniel Buckingham. Nick taught me the basics of electric guitar, and after that I shot off on my own path. Daniel has been encouraging, and he’s always given me advice for my instrument, telling me how I can improve every week. Without those two, I wouldn’t be able to play

the same and wouldn’t have had some of the years where I grew as a musician and as a Christian in that space.

Since I’m only 18, it’s a scary thing to know that I could be a worship leader alongside people older than me, who may expect more from an 18-year-old than they will from people their age.

There’s a verse in the Bible where it says don’t be scared to be a young leader (1 Timothy 4:12). It’s about not being scared to be that outreach and to be that role model for people my age and younger who are wanting to do the same thing. At Excel, we’re going on a New Zealand-based tour this year.

I’m excited to use my skills in order to encourage people in high school to not be scared of their faith and their talent that they’ve been blessed with.

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 11

In Your Corner: Boxing and Building Communities of Champion People The Billy Graham Youth Foundation (BGYF) has grown out of the success of the Naenae Boxing Academy in Lower Hutt. The gym uses boxing as a vehicle to teach and develop life skills, combining passion for the sport with cultivating a culture of building resilience and relationships.

BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER

When the Billy Graham Youth Foundation (BGYF) talks about champions, it goes far beyond being a winner in the boxing ring—even though several of those have been trained through their academies.

To them, a champion is somebody who has grown up to become their best self.

It is about any young athlete who walks through their doors and becomes a good brother, a good sister, a good parent, a good employee. Someone who has developed self-confidence and skill, but also a heart for their neighbours.

12 firezone.co.nz 20 MARCH 2021

‘We love boxing—that’s the vehicle—but central to our purpose is not only that they’re succeeding for themselves, but they also then contribute back into their communities,’ says David Graham, CEO of BGYF. The foundation is named after David’s father, New Zealand boxing great Billy Graham, who pioneered their first academy in the mid-2000s.

‘Dad was a Naenae boy, grew up here in the 50s and got into trouble more often than not. The local policeman brought him into the boxing gym … that helped him turn his life around, and that’s how he came to faith,’ David explains.

What followed was a successful athletic career in boxing, but also a desire to one day open a boxing gym to replicate his experience for more teenagers. Naenae Boxing Academy was launched in 2006 (coincidentally, in a former Salvation Army building), as a place for young people to train and box, but also to acquire and develop life skills.

Boxing may be an individual sport at face value; however, because everybody trains together as a team, it helps athletes to grow in self-confidence and independence while simultaneously developing teamwork and trust in those around them. What

results is a community of well-rounded, outwardly focused individuals with increased resilience to face the challenges of life.

For some, that might be the turbulent nature of growing up. Others may have seen their lives touched by violence or disadvantage. The academy has seen people from all kinds of backgrounds—from refugees to CEOs’ sons—pass through its doors and step into a safe space where everyone is equal. There are no cliques. Nobody interrupts or calls names. Everyone cleans up at the end of class.

‘When you walk into the academy, you won’t have a coach come and shake your hand—you’ll have 20 nineyear-olds come and shake your hand,’ David says. ‘They set the standards; they build community as much as coaches do.

‘We’ve got well over a thousand kids going through these academies each week. To be able to support youth development practice and the boxing practice and combine those two together is magic.’

A Strong Foundation After witnessing the transformative work emerging out of Naenae Boxing Academy, other communities reached out to them, seeking the same empowerment for their own young people.

David, who grew up boxing and then moved into coaching at the academy, received a World of Difference grant from the Vodafone New Zealand Foundation in 2014.

Those funds supported research into what made the Naenae Boxing Academy model special, and an extension grant provided a further three years to see how they could support other communities to replicate this model. In 2015, BGYF was established for national oversight.

They now support five academies—in Naenae, Lower Hutt and Cannons Creek in Porirua, Mid-Canterbury, Te Awamutu and West Auckland—and are preparing to launch a sixth at Snells Beach.

All five academies have a waitlist to join; at the beginning of the year, there were over 240 people hoping to join the Naenae gym. While it is disappointing to have to turn away families, David is encouraged to know they are filling a need and that young people are enthusiastic about getting involved.

‘If we’re interested in developing that social connectedness between diverse communities and diverse peoples—which is what we’re all about—then you need a vehicle that’s going to attract diverse people,’ David says.

‘A CHAMPION IS SOMEBODY WHO HAS GROWN UP TO BECOME THEIR BEST SELF.’ ‘For some reason, they seem to be attracted to boxing.’

In recent years, their academies have also expanded to offer classes for girls and young women.

‘Supporting young people to pursue purpose and potential and then develop that outward focus is just as needed for our young women as our young men, as it is for young people that are working through their sexual orientation,’ David says. ‘We’ve got safe environments.

We know that we love people, so let’s go about supporting them and learning from them as much as we can.’

He believes what sets their gyms apart is the culture of everyone giving to each other and benefitting and learning from each other in equal measures.

‘I receive as much from those young people as what I can, hopefully, support them with,’ he says. ‘When one person walks into a room and they’re having a hard day, it needs to be that the community gets around them and shares the weight.

‘We belong to this kaupapa that has been and will be of communities supporting communities.’

If success can be defined for BGYF, it boils down to building relationships.

‘There’s this pressure that’s placed on the youth development, social services world that you can quantify success as you would any other KPI (key performance indicator) in a business setting,’ he explains. ‘For me, we’ve got young people that are journeying with each other. We’ve got relationships. That’s success.

‘Everybody’s “at risk”—if you’re at risk of growing up to be a chauvinist who is not interested in supporting those around you, then you’re “at risk”. If you are at risk of topping yourself at 13, then you are “at risk”,’ David says. ‘That’s why I’m involved in BGYF, because we’ve got a chance to support every young person and to be supported by every young person.

‘You don’t know what’s going to happen in six months’ time, because for a lot of the young people that we work with, it’s that constant up and down,’ he explains. ‘You hope that in fifty years’ time, there will be more ups than there are downs, and that we can contribute to that.’

Ultimately, they see their mission as helping young people to become champions who enrich their communities, while knowing there is a network of support for them to fall back on.

‘FOR ME, WE’VE GOT YOUNG PEOPLE THAT ARE JOURNEYING WITH EACH OTHER. WE’VE GOT RELATIONSHIPS. THAT’S SUCCESS.’ 20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 13

Shayne Thompson: A Heart for People

BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER

Shayne Thompson is one of the leaders of Uprise Youth at Palmerston North Corps. By day he works as a truck driver, travelling from the North Island to the South Island on the big rigs. He has survived two major health issues and believes he is ‘here for a reason’.

Shayne Thompson was in his late teens when he first came to Palmerston North Corps.

‘I was working at a supermarket and a person there was going along to their youth group,’ he says. ‘I had a little side bet with a game, and if she won I’d come along to the youth group.’

Needless to say, he lost.

Three years after that first introduction to Uprise Youth, he began his first stint of youth leading. During that time, along with the corps, Shayne committed his time and finances into setting up a dedicated space for Uprise in the basement. He believes they were one of the first Salvation Army corps in New Zealand to set up a young adults’ space like it, and the basement has been key to drawing new people towards their group’s events.

14 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

‘They look around and they’re quite impressed. We have a toastie machine, milkshake machine, drinks in the fridge, jars of biscuits, jars of sweets and stuff like that. They all ask, “How much is this?” and I say, “No, you don’t have to pay”. The only time we do get them to pay is if we’ve got something coming up, like Easter Camp.’

The basement also has a large mural which was painted by two young Fijian boys from the corps. ‘They did that in their spare time, it took them about four weeks.’

Shayne believes it is an exciting time for the youth in Palmerston North. Uprise has also seen recent growth from the corps’ Just Brass programme (a Salvation Army initiative which provides free brass music lessons in partnership with local

schools), which he wants to capitalise on by encouraging the group in creativity and leadership.

‘I like the fact that the other leaders who we’ve got in our group now, I was leading them when I was doing it the first time around.’

Shayne took a short break from youth leading during what he describes as a ‘holiday from church’, for around three years.

Throughout that period, Rob Kirk, a friend from Palmerston North Corps, was praying for him, before one day inviting him to come along to their corps’ annual cricket match against Levin.

Shayne met Lt-Colonels Rod and Jenny Carey, who were coming in as the new corps officers at the time, and it wasn’t long until he was back at the corps, helping with Uprise again.

‘Two weeks after that, I got asked to help,’ Shayne remembers. ‘I said I’d pop along, and then went along and recommitted. If it wasn’t for Rob and Rod, I think I probably would have stayed away.’

Another important person on his journey is his friend Captain Joe Serevi.

‘MY MUM ALWAYS PRAYS FOR ME ON THE ROAD … BECAUSE IT’S A DANGEROUS BUSINESS BEING WITH THE BIG RIGS.’ ‘I look up to Joe. He always gets a phone call if something goes on, and if anything happens to me, I always get a phone call from Joe.’ Shayne is inspired by Joe’s approach to serving the disadvantaged on the streets of Wellington and would love to be part of a similar initiative in his local area. He hopes that Uprise Youth can get involved in this area of serving as well in the near future, whether on the streets of Palmerston North or further abroad through mission trips (once borders reopen).

SHAYNE BELIEVES IT IS AN EXCITING TIME FOR THE YOUTH IN PALMERSTON NORTH. have surgery within six months.

On the planned day, Shayne arrived at the hospital before his room was ready, so he decided to go for a walk. He soon realised that he didn’t feel well, and hurried back to the hospital where he was put into surgery.

Following the procedure, he was told, ‘We’re glad we did your surgery now, because you were close to having a full-on heart attack’.

‘And that would have been it—there’s nothing they would have been able to do.’

It is not the only serious health complication that Shayne has survived. When he was just a child, he was diagnosed with leukaemia and, of a group of about 30 children diagnosed at the time, as far as he knows only three of them are still alive.

That experience has spurred Shayne to do his bit for kids experiencing leukaemia today, through the Palmerston North ‘Big Rig Ride’ event which supports the Child Cancer Foundation.

‘You go around with the truck and you pick the kids up … and you take them for rides,’ he explains. ‘It’s the only truck event that I do, because it’s for the kids.’

Living through those two experiences with serious medical issues has encouraged Shayne that he is ‘here for a reason’.

Whether that means he will continue with youth leading or explore his passion for helping the disadvantaged, he has a heart for people and hopes that serving with and for people will be part of that purpose.

Not all plain sailing When he is not youth leading, following the V8 Supercars or ‘keeping the faith with the New Zealand Warriors’, Shayne is driving trucks. It has been his job for more than thirty years, travelling anywhere from Auckland to Invercargill.

‘My mum always prays for me on the road, and I know for a fact that a lot of other people do too, because it’s a dangerous business being with the big rigs.’

It can also be a space that feels challenging to be a Christian in, ‘but all the guys at my work know I go to the Army. They can sometimes make jokes about it, but a few of them have got quite a bit of respect that I do what I do.’

Just over 10 years ago, Shayne experienced a health scare, when he collapsed at the wheel of his truck.

He was told that he would need to stay in hospital for a few weeks until they could identify the problem, due to the backlog of patients. However, the timing turned out to be much faster.

‘There was a lot of prayer going on, and pretty much within a week I had all my tests done.’

Doctors discovered that his aortic valve (which pumps blood out of the heart) was deformed, and Shayne was instructed to

Uprise Youth's basement space at Palmerston North Corps.

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 15

One Waka—Rowing from Jerusalem In conversations at Booth College of Mission during the introduction of the Territorial Strategy, Commissioner Julie Campbell was involved in many thought-provoking discussions around where the language for the new strategy had come from, within Salvation Army’s history. Since then, Julie has been reflecting on and investigating the significance of waka for the Army.

The image of the waka for the Army in New Zealand stems from Captain Ernest Holdaway and his wife Elizabeth. During their mission on the Whanganui river, a Ngāti Haunui-aPāpārangi chief, Tamatea Aurunui, came to faith and gifted a waka to Holdaway and The Salvation Army to continue their mission.

A column from the 25 May 1889 War Cry includes a letter from Captain Ernest Holdaway, discussing their relationship with Tamatea and his gift. ‘I am glad to be able to report great progress. After having had real good times in Wanganui, we have had a continuation of them on our way up. Tamatea, the chief has given us a canoe, that is, the main part of it, the log all cut out.

I have had kauri sides put on it, also oars, rowlocks, mast and sail and now I am going to paint it. It is a very fast canoe and without any other cargo will carry around 20 people.

Of course it belongs to the Army, and will carry us up and down the river whenever we like.’

With the use of this waka, The Salvation Army was able to travel along the Whanganui River and share the gospel with other iwi.

This history of generosity and journeying together flows into what the Army hopes to achieve within the territorial strategy.

However, the use of a sea-faring vessel as a visual for the strategic framework is intended to resonate with the territory’s Island nations as well— Fiji, Tonga and Samoa—and the image incorporates features of each nation’s vessel.

Julie explains that at the end of the day, this new territorial strategy is all about ‘rowing together as different areas of ministry, whether it’s a corps or a Family Store or addictions, ASARS, Bridge, we’re all in this waka because our goal is to achieve our mission of caring for people and transforming lives and reforming society by God’s power and his love.’

Southern Division Gathers in Christchurch On Sunday February 21, the Southern Division gathered at a packed-out Christchurch City Corps for a celebration meeting.

Held on the same week as Southern Officers Councils and the 10-year anniversary of the Christchurch earthquake, the evening was a timely opportunity to come together.

Through a video presentation, each corps provided updates about causes for celebration in their communities, while officers taking up new appointments within the division were welcomed.

Lieutenant Semi Ratu shared his testimony and spoke of God’s provision over the course of his life—from growing up in Fiji, to beginning his officership journey in New Zealand, and the blessings that were already apparent in their family’s first appointment to Ashburton Corps.

The anniversary of the Christchurch earthquake was acknowledged, followed by a moment of reflection. Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Julie Campbell thanked the people of Christchurch for their resilience in responding to the tragedy, particularly those who did so despite personal trauma and damage to their own homes, before leading in prayer.

16 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

Territorial Commander Commissioner Mark Campbell shared a message about being ‘life givers’ in an environment where so much could take life from us, like Covid-19 or earthquakes.

The following day, representatives of The Salvation Army were present at the 10-year anniversary memorial service of the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake, which was held beside the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial. It was a time to pause and remember the losses of the disaster and its lingering impact on the Canterbury region.

Major Clive Nicolson, who was the divisional commander (Southern) at the time of the disaster, was one of the people invited to read the names of the 185 people who lost their lives.

For Lt-Colonel Michelle Collins, the most poignant moment of the service occurred during the observed moment of silence.

‘Everybody turned to face the wall,’ she says. ‘It was eerily quiet, and then all of a sudden there was this sound in the distance of sirens—somebody, somewhere in Christchurch was in need of help, and first responders were on their way again.’

By the conclusion of the proceedings, an array of individual flowers had been placed in the water as part of the yearly River of Flowers tribute, colouring the Avon River in remembrance.

Tribute to Commissioner Garth McKenzie On the cadet tramp recently, which Garth organised and led, the first signs that Garth was unwell began to emerge. As the tramp progressed and Garth had fallen over more than once, he expressed concern to me that cadets needed to assist him.

My immediate response was: ‘Garth, they love you and they would walk through fire for you if they had to’. And I believe this is how the officer force felt about Garth.

We loved his humility, quiet graciousness, deeply pastoral heart, trustworthiness and knowing he would hold sacred the personal things shared with him. He was genuinely concerned for us, a man who prayed extensively and with great deliberation, a man who knew God and walked with him and was never enamoured by the baubles of office, nor did he seek these.

Garth held a very large deposit with officers, of trust, admiration, experience and respect. This deposit never was in danger of running out because it emanated from who he was and not what he was. He retained the respect and judgement of people even when decisions had to be made which involved disappointment, because he carried aroha, mana and utter sincerity.

In many ways, Garth’s officership was in two halves: the first as an active officer leader, the second as an officer serving in retirement. In both these capacities it would be true to say that every officer in the territory has been influenced and impacted by Garth.

As an officer leader, we grew to appreciate Garth as a facilitative leader who understood vicarious achievement through others, who ensured people were listened to and encouraged and empowered to reach their potential. He led by consensus and by agreement and formed the first Territorial Strategic Plan. Prayer was at the centre of all this.

In retirement, Garth’s influence upon officers has in some ways been even greater. Officers who have attended in-service training courses at Booth College of Mission (BCM) have been the object of his care and gentle inquiry. His prayer lists for all these people were extensive … the scope of the cycle of pastoral contact, catch up by phone, email and one-on-one contact will never be

fully known. His knowledge of people and understanding of their situations is unparalleled. One knew you could share the deepest things with Garth and know it would never be betrayed. His presence at BCM was a presence of graced influence and agape.

Garth was a tōtara in our midst.

‘Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord and on this law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers,’ (Psalm 1).

BY MAJOR DAVID NOAKES

Year of Prayer: The Breath of the Spirit For the last three years I have been walking up and down Mt Victoria, Wellington, close to my home. Going up Mt Victoria is hilly as well as flat, but I get near the top and I have two ways to go, either around the road, or up a steep hill, which is a lot quicker. There are also around 75 steps to climb on the way back.

Over the past three years, I have never been able to go up this steep hill, or the steps, without taking a break.

We all know that a lot of us don’t really breathe in the way we should do, at least I didn’t, so instead of breathing from the abdomen, I breathe from the upper chest area, which is not ideal—for the simple reason that breathing this way is not breathing deeply.

Then, something changed in my head, I knew the right way of breathing for a long time, yet have never put it into practice, until this summer.

I can’t tell you the difference it has made to my walking. I can get up the steps and up the steep hill without having to stop, it feels really good and all of my walking has become easier.

I realise that this is the same in my spiritual walk, my prayer life, of being still and breathing in the Holy Spirits breath and power for my everyday life in him. When I sit at the feet of Jesus, when I live my life every day knowing he is with me, his breath is breathing life into me every moment. I can rest, I can be, I can do, I can build relationships in a far more significant way than ever before.

May we find the rhythms of his love, grace and presence in our every day.

BY MAJOR STEPH HERRING

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 17

International Day of Prayer for Children and Youth March 28 is the International Day of Prayer for Children and Youth, where corps around the world will be incorporating a time of prayer into their meetings and also encouraging children and youth to be involved. The theme for this year’s Day of Prayer is ‘seen and heard’, as The Salvation Army believes that God often speaks to and through young people, and so this year in March we want to allow room for his children to be listened to by those around them.

Even though this international call to pray for our young people is an important date in the territory’s Year of Prayer, the theme of ‘Seen and Heard’ is a wider consideration for our territory. This concept has already been a part of the Children’s Ministry strategy, expressing the importance of giving children and youth space to be included in the life of the Army’s faith communities.

Lt-Colonel Debbie Clark, the Territorial Children’s Mission Secretary, likens the need to honour and support the children and youth in our corps to the relationship kids have with their

grandparents. ‘There’s a high bias, it doesn’t matter what they get up to, they’re loved unconditionally. But often in the church, we’re not good grandparents.’ Young people need encouragement and understanding as they learn to hear from God, while navigating a rapidly changing world. There is a challenge to offer belonging as spiritual aunts, uncles and grandparents, and the International Day of Prayer is a great opportunity to step into these roles. It is important to be equipping and interceding for the next generation now and not just in the future.

The Children and Youth Department at Territorial Headquarters was asked to prepare the resources on behalf of International Headquarters for this year’s Day of Prayer. These resources have been translated into twelve different languages to be used in corps globally.

For more information on the Day of Prayer for Children and Youth, or for access to these resources, visit salvationarmy. org/ihq/seen-and-heard

Photography: Lt-Colonel Milton Collins From left: Lt-Colonel Michelle Collins, Lt-Colonel Ian Hutson, Peter Bain, Lt-Colonel Allan Clark, Lt-Colonel Lynette Hutson, Bruce Wall, Major Brenda Luscombe, Colonel Gerry Walker. Not pictured: Captain David Daly, Major Raewyn Gardner, Captain Rochelle Moffatt, Phil Neal, Captain Pauleen Richards.

Territorial Management Board In the previous edition of War Cry, we presented the Territorial Governance Board (TGB) and its members. In this edition, we introduce the Territorial Management Board. This board will primarily oversee the implementation of strategy and policy that is proposed by TGB. They will work alongside both TGB and the Pastoral Committee on an operational level, to enable The Salvation Army to achieve its mission, take a more hands-on 18 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

approach and provide advice and assistance where needed.

These are the Territorial Management Board members: Colonel Gerry Walker, Lt-Colonel Allan Clark, Lt-Colonel Michelle Collins, Lt-Colonel Ian Hutson, Lt-Colonel Lynette Hutson, Major Raewyn Gardner, Major Brenda Luscombe, Captain David Daly, Captain Rochelle Moffatt, Captain Pauleen Richards, Peter Bain, Phil Neal and Bruce Wall.

Awaken 2021 Conference There is currently an ongoing conversation about human sexuality taking place within The Salvation Army across the world. One of the aims of this conversation is to build bridges between the Army and LGBTIQ+ Salvationists, corps members and the rainbow community.

The theme of building bridges is close to the heart of Craig Watson and Neill Ballantyne who are coordinators of Diverse Church in New Zealand, a rainbow Christian network that seeks to embody a healthy and authentic Christian faith and find safe and meaningful community for its members.

Diverse Church is hosting the Awaken 2021 Conference in Wellington on the weekend of 26 to 28 March, at St Peters on Willis Street. The Awaken 2021 Conference this year will be opened by the Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Grant Robertson on the evening of Friday 26 March, with keynote speakers including kaupapa Māori and Takatapui researcher, advocate and now Green MP, Dr Elizabeth Kerekere; former Sydney pastor and Lower Hutt native, Andre Afamasaga and respected church historian Professor Emeritus Dr Peter Lineham.

A number of Salvation Army representatives will be attending, looking to understand what the good news of the gospel means for LGBTIQ+ people within the Army and the wider church.

Both Neill and Craig have had negative experiences within the wider church in New Zealand and they are working towards facilitating a welcoming and inclusive space for LGBTIQ+ Christians and people of faith.

For more information go to diversechurch.co.nz/events/ awaken2021/

WE WANT TO ENSURE WE HAVE A GREAT PLACE TO BELONG, WORK, WORSHIP AND SERVE… He aha te mea nui o te ao What is the most important thing in the world?

He tangata, he tangata, he tangata It is the people, it is the people, it is the people Māori proverb

Our people are our most important and valued resource, and I thank God for our Army of staff, volunteers, soldiers, adherents and officers who are committed to our mission and passionately serve and care for others with the love and compassion of Jesus.

Our mission is caring for people, transforming lives and reforming society by God’s power, and we fulfil this through our worship of God and our work in the many and varied mission centres serving people in our community.

This importance is the focus of one of the three priorities in the recently released Territorial Strategic Framework: Our Mission Impact, Our People and Our Sustainability.

We want to ensure we have a great place to belong, work, worship and serve, through living our values and recognising and honouring our individual experience and gifting. We can do far more together than separately.

It is our aim to continue to lift leadership and management opportunities and capabilities and also improve our recruitment and retention of our staff, Salvationists, volunteers and officers. It is also important that our mission centres are inclusive, so that all people regardless of culture, age or gender know they belong and are valued.

We want to hear the voices that represent the diversity of people who worship and work in our Army and the people God has called us to care for and serve.

Recently, Commissioner Garth McKenzie was promoted to Glory and I have heard inspiring stories of how he invested, encouraged and prayed for many people. Garth had a way of making everyone feel important and valued. All of us who were blessed and encouraged by Garth have been challenged to continue his ministry of loving God and encouraging others.

Jesus demonstrated the importance of people and treated everyone with love, compassion and respect. Jesus made time to teach about God’s love, his Word and how to love and care for others.

In Matthew 22:36–39, we read that an expert in the law asked Jesus, ‘ “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” ’ Loving God with all our heart, soul and mind enables us to love our neighbours; who live next door, who work with us, who we serve or who worship at our corps.

Everyone is our neighbour and important in God’s Kingdom.

Commissioner Julie Campbell Territorial President of Women’s Ministries 20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 19

Cancel culture will be a new phrase for many. In its purest form it is shutting down abusive and damaging speech. In its worst form it is shutting down any opinion that is contrary to another’s opinion.

But what is now called ‘cancel culture’ could be constituted as suppression of freedom of speech.

Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

BY VIVIENNE HILL

Freedom of speech There has been a growing shift in society over the past 10 years against ‘freedom of speech’. What was once a value held dear in a democratic and free society is now seen as an impediment, even a danger. This shift has largely been driven by social media, which is unregulated, at times false and often expresses a one-sided opinion, with bullying and vilification a response to any countering opinion. What was once ‘iron sharpening iron’ could now be seen as a threat to our society.

20 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

Historically, freedom of speech and opinion was often misused to malign, belittle and control people. It has been the hammer used to marginalise and isolate those who have differing views on gender, race and religion. But, it has also been used to expose hidden abuse, challenge totalitarian governments and defend minority people groups.

Words hold tremendous power for both good and evil, and we have in our near history an example of this power both used effectively and abused terribly. In Eric Metaxa’s book, Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy, he writes about a young Dietrich, born into a family of German intellectuals who valued the right of free speech in society.

He was encouraged to think deeply and critically about the culture he was part

of. This ability to consider and respect other people’s opinions was encouraged and used to shape his education and thinking and ultimately his character.

When the misuse of ‘free speech’ was used in Hitler’s Nazi Germany, Dietrich’s fundamental belief in Proverbs 31:8–9—‘Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy,’—gave him the courage and conviction to challenge the despotic manipulation of the German people and the victimisation of the Jews. Hitler freely expressed his opinion while crushing any dissenting voices.

His actions highlight the danger of freedom of speech and the danger of the suppression of freedom of speech.

IT IS OUR JOB AS CHRISTIANS TO ENGAGE WITH THE SOCIETY AROUND US, EVEN THOSE WHO MIGHT SEEK TO CANCEL US AND WE MUST ENGAGE WITH LOVE AND GENTLENESS.

HIS MINISTRY OF CANCELLATION WAS TARGETED AT EVIL. IN FACT, JESUS CANCELLED DEATH! cancellation? Well, the Bible says these days are not far away.

was always willing to engage both his opponents and the populace.

Christians in a culture of cancellation

Many of Jesus’ followers expected him to stand up against the Roman occupation forces in his country, but Jesus did not entertain their agenda.

In fact, it was the cancel culturalists of his day, the religious leaders, who used the Romans to ‘cancel’ Jesus. He exposed their wicked practices, but never demanded they be removed. In contrast, the religious leaders who enforced their beliefs and practices on the Jewish population crushed any dissent.

It is not, and has not been, unusual for Christians to become victims of cancel culture. There are many people and governments around the world who believe that Christianity is fundamentally wrong and oppressive.

Many Christians face persecution for their beliefs and faith. Dinesh D’Souza said, ‘Somehow freedom for religious expression has become freedom from religious expression’. If the suppression of free speech in other countries is our benchmark, then we can be sure Christianity is and will continue to be in the firing line of proponents of cancel culture.

Bonhoeffer said, ‘Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.’ Bonhoeffer’s actions and expression of free speech cost him his life, but he is an example to all of us of a person of courage and conviction who spoke in defence of groups who were being suppressed—no matter what the cost.

The cancel culture When we look at the suppression of freedom of speech today, we see a ‘cancel culture’ at work in our society that has a growing list of expressed opinions that are deemed offensive and the list is getting longer. There are those who believe that the cancel culture is a good thing and removes harmful opinions, but the big question is: who decides what is a ‘good’ and an ‘acceptable’ opinion and what is not? Even with the polarising issues of today, any dissenting conversations or opinions are shut down, or people are ‘cancelled’. This is now considered acceptable, even favourable, but this inevitably victimises individuals and invites fear and tyranny into society.

What if one day Christianity itself was deemed ‘offensive’ and in need of

Unfortunately, there are Christians who have been guilty of engaging in cancellation, and deem it necessary to vehemently defend opinions, instead of allowing the free flow of ideas and conversations, which, instead of being a threat, often help to crystallise and shape our faith. People fear that allowing ‘free speech’ within the church may be an affront to Christ, or their particular expression of faith. They perceive discussions and thought as heresy and so sanction and suppress.

Soren Kierkegaard said, ‘People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.’

Christ’s response to cancellation Christianity may have participated in oppressive and intolerant behaviours in the past, and at times in the present, but this is not what was spoken of and modelled by Christ. Jesus spoke powerfully into many social issues of his day and his opinions have remained relevant and truthful for millennia.

Instead of defending his rights, he often countered differing opinions with a question or a parable. He was not afraid to answer the hard questions and he

Jesus’ message was and is inclusive for all, regardless of race, gender identification, belief: no one is excluded from coming to the table, where Jesus said in Revelation 3:20, ‘Here I am!

I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.’ Jesus’ ministry of cancellation was targeted at evil. In fact, Jesus cancelled death!

What are we to do?

It says in 2 Timothy 2:24–26, ‘And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness’. It is our job as Christians to engage with the society around us, even those who might seek to cancel us, but we must engage with love and gentleness. This may not be reciprocated. If this happens, we are told

by Jesus in Luke 6:22–24 that, ‘Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.’

This is our exemplar, this is our mandate: to speak up against tyranny and evil without violating the law of love.

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 21

GAZETTE

OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS

Promotion to Glory: Major Jeane Prattley from Palm Grove Rest Home, Shirley, Christchurch on Tuesday 23 February 2021 at the age of 92. Evelyn Jeane Clara Britton was born in Whanganui on 29 July 1929. Following Jeane’s marriage to Richard Prattley on 27 June 1953, they entered The Salvation Army Training College from Terrace End Corps in 1954, as cadets in the Shepherds session. They were commissioned on 22 January 1955 as second lieutenants. Following their commissioning, Jeane and Richard gave 30 years of service in corps appointments in Paremata (1955), Auckland South (1957), as first lieutenants in Foxton (1958), as captains in Gore (1960), Oxford (1961), Dunedin North (1964), Petone (1968), Blenheim (1971), then as majors in Sydenham (1973), Dunedin Fortress (1975) and Palmerston North (1978). In 1980, Majors Jeane and Richard were transferred to the United Kingdom Territory and served in Stowmarket Corps and Penge Corps. Upon returning to New Zealand in 1985, they were appointed Assistants, Wellington Railton Hotel.

Then in June 1986, Jeane and Richard were appointed Assistant Managers, Resthaven Christchurch, and Managers, Resthaven Christchurch (1987), and it is from this appointment that Jeane and Richard retired on 1 May 1993, having given 38 years and 3 months of dedicated service as active officers. Major Richard Prattley was promoted to Glory on 27 February 2010. We honour Jeane for her dedicated service as an active officer, and for her 28 years of continued faithful service in retirement. Please uphold Jeane’s children Laurence, Annette and David and members of the extended family in this time of grief and loss. Well done good and faithful Shepherd of Jesus Christ!

Bereavement: Lena Morgan, the sister of Captain Susan Adams, passed away on Sunday 28 February 2021, in Australia, aged 46 years. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the family were not able to be together at this time. We ask you to uphold in prayer Captains Susan and Robert Adams, Finn (Lena’s 7-year-old son) and extended family members, at this time of grief and loss.

Prayer request: Captain Kelvin Turner is far from well, please uphold him in prayer as he receives chemotherapy treatment. Please also uphold in prayer Captain Pauline and the family, including Captains Eric and Julie Turner who are in Samoa and not able to be with their family at this time. Thank you for your prayers.

Commissioners Mark (Territorial Commander) and Julie Campbell (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 21 March: Corps visits, Auckland 22 March: Officers Councils, Northern Division 26–28 March: Corps visits, Southern Division 2–4 April: Easter Celebrations, Kilbirnie Corps, Wellington Colonel Gerry Walker (Chief Secretary) 15–29 March: Royal Commission Hearing Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 22–23 March: Spiritual Life Development Network, Wellington 1–5 April: Easter Celebrations, Tauranga Corps

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Thank you, from the McKenzie family Name Email Address Phone Send to: warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz or War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141

We wish to acknowledge our very grateful thanks to everyone who has expressed love, upheld us in prayer, sent messages and cards and supported us in practical ways. From the beginning of our four-month journey, we have felt carried by you all, experiencing God’s grace, strength and peace. We have been humbled and overwhelmed by the magnitude of your love and care for us. Despite our grief, we are so grateful to God for sustaining us and the underlying joy we have, knowing Garth is safely in his presence.

Quiz Answers: 1 Lactose, 2 Angela Lansbury, 3 Madagascar, 4 Little House on the Prairie, 5 A cake of barley (Judges 7:13–14).

22 WarCry 20 MARCH 2021

‘Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.

Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life”.’

Make a lemon volcano!

It’s time to put on your lab coat, because we are going to delve into the world of science! You can cause a lemon to fizz into a colourful eruption with a lemon and some household items.

A

YOU'LL NEED

• Lemons • Knife and cutting board

B

• Craft sticks or a fork • Food colouring

JOHN 4:13–14

• Dish soap

C

• Baking soda

Which two are the same?

• Large dish (to catch the eruption mess) • An adult to help out as your trusty lab assistant.

METHOD

• Roll the lemons to get the juices flowing, then cut lemons in half.

• Use a craft stick or fork to poke into the flesh of the lemon and release those juices a little more.

D

• Set your lemons on the large dish, flesh side up. If they won’t stand up, cut a flat part onto the bottom.

• Add a few drops of food colouring to the lemon flesh.

• Add a dribble of dish soap to each lemon.

• Sprinkle the top of the lemon with a generous layer of baking soda. A small reaction will take place.

• Take the craft sticks or fork and poke the lemons to push the baking soda into the lemon flesh to mix it with the juice.

• Watch the lemon erupt!

What kind of shoes are made from banana peels?

Fruity crossword

With that in mind, think about these four ways that Jesus describes himself in the Bible: ‘I am the living water.’

‘I am the bread of life.’

Because lemonade is a soft drink.

Use the picture clues to fill in the crossword.

Humans only need four elements to live: water, food, air and light. As long as we are quenched, fed, breathing in and out and getting our daily vitamin D from the sun, those are our building blocks to survive.

Slippers.

F

Source: steampoweredfamily.com Method has been tweaked slightly for formatting.

FUN FACT Lemons float, but limes sink because they are slightly denser.

A man falls 100m into a pool of lemonade —why wasn’t he hurt?

E

‘I am the breath of life.’

‘I am the light of the world.’

How cool is that? Just like we need water, food, air and light to keep our living bodies strong and healthy, Jesus is the foundation for our inner, spiritual lives.

CAN YOU...

…think of any other examples in the Bible of God providing water, food, air and light?

20 MARCH 2021 WarCry 23