Salvationist 4 September 2021

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No 1823 Price 70p

salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 4 September 2021

Defining who we are PLUS 00

CREATION CARE IN ACTION

Salvationist Day Month 2020

SEE PAGES 8 AND 9 00

Salvationist Day Month 2020

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

OVER 100 CHURCHES MOBILISE TO HELP AFGHAN REFUGEES SETTLE IN THE UK

DOMESTIC ABUSERS ‘WEAPONISED’ COVID IN ENGLAND AND WALES, STUDY FINDS

AFGHAN REFUGEES ‘AT RISK OF EXPLOITATION’ WARNS CHRISTIAN CHARITY

More than 100 churches from across the country have joined forces to help Afghan refugees settle in the UK. Christian charity Welcome Churches, together with the Hospitality Pledge, both of which encourage the Christian community to support refugees, launched an emergency call for churches to join their support efforts, especially those based in areas where the resettlements are going to be.

Dr Krish Kandiah ... leader of the Hospitality Pledge project, told Premier over 100 churches joined...

‘It's been so amazing to see the Church step forward and really get involved,’ Kandiah said.

‘We ... are working with the Home Office to provide practical support.

People have arrived with very little...

Churches have been sourcing prams and clothing... There are so many things that churches can do.’

Coronavirus was ‘weaponised’ by domestic abusers during the pandemic and police forces should remain alert to ‘Covid blaming’ as an excuse or defence by suspects, a study has found.

The Domestic Homicide Project, established by the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the College of Policing, revealed that domestic homicides in England and Wales had not increased dramatically during the pandemic but still remained at about three a week, with 163 recorded in the 12 months to March. This was similar to the previous year’s figure of 152 and in line with the 15-year average…

The report concluded Covid-19 had not caused domestic homicide but it had been ‘weaponised’ by some abusers both as a new tool of control over victims and – in some cases – as an excuse or defence for abuse or homicide of the victim.

Refugees fleeing Afghanistan due to fear of reprisals from the Taliban face an acute risk of exploitation by human traffickers, according to the Christian charity, Care.

Lauren Agnew, human trafficking officer for Care, says: ‘The desperate situation in Afghanistan is a recipe for human trafficking. Afghan citizens face an acute risk of exploitation by traffickers as they seek to flee violence and persecution under the Taliban regime...

‘Afghan women ... are particularly at risk. Aware of attacks on their rights, they will want to try and escape Taliban control and oppression and may, in desperation, turn to illegal means of leaving the country.

‘Traffickers deceive vulnerable individuals with the promise of a better life. But many end up falling into modern slavery, whether that means commercial sexual exploitation, forced labour, or domestic servitude.’

Premier

The Guardian

Premier

METHODIST MINISTER SINGS 748 HYMNS TO RAISE MONEY FOR COVID RELIEF EFFORTS IN INDIA A Lancashire church minister has sung the entire Methodist hymn book to raise money for an Indian Covid-19 relief effort.

[The] Rev Phil Gough, superintendent minister of The Chorley and Leyland Methodist Circuit, sang 748 songs in slots of three to four hours a day during a week...

SALVATIONIST salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891

ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

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Salvationist 4 September 2021

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 (option 1, option 1) subscriptions@satcol.org TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 020 7367 4500 0845 634 0101

PROOFREADER Chris Horne

Premier

ADVERTISING 020 7367 4883 advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896

of the number of deaths caused by Covid-19...

[The] Rev Phil broadcast his singing through Facebook Live with the aim of raising £600, but has so far raised £1,500, enough to pay for two ventilators for a church in northern India.

He said the idea came after being made aware of the challenges churches in India are facing to help people suffering with Covid-19...

Earlier this year, India suffered a critical shortage of oxygen tanks and ventilators after a huge rise in Covid-19 cases. The country currently ranks [third] in the world in terms

ISSN 2516-5909

GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Social icon

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For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS

DECLARING OUR NOT-SO-SECRET IDENTITY

AS a child, I was fascinated with the concept of identity. Actually, let me clarify that: I liked Batman. The idea that one person could be two very different people – for example, Batman and Bruce Wayne – fascinated me. This fascination continued with my adoration of Superman/Clark Kent, Spider-Man/Peter Parker, Wonder Woman/ Diana Prince, Hulk/Bruce Banner and so on. Add in the Lone Ranger and Zorro – just to show my age – and my childhood was full of people who spent time being someone else!

This fascination with the secret life of fictional characters developed into a similar fascination with real life people. I’ve always been interested in people who have a secret talent or ability that few know about. I recall when a young man joined a corps where I was serving as corps officer and started playing alongside me in our cricket team and in our brass band. I went to his house one evening and he had a grand piano in his bedroom! It turns out he was also a highly skilled pianist.

The question of identity is not only an individual one but also, at times, a corporate one. ‘Who am I?’ becomes ‘Who are we?’ It can be difficult to come to a neat conclusion when different personalities, desires, passions and objectives come into play – especially when contradictory notions are expressed.

In his 1999 book Who Are These Salvationists?, General Shaw Clifton (Retired) addressed the matter well as he sought to answer ‘who we were, who we are, and who we ought to be in the 21st century’. However, each generation is entitled to clarify Army identity again and so, in 2020, an Identity Task Force (ITF) began a series of meetings to establish for this territory what our vision, mission and values are.

In the centre pages of this Salvationist you will find a summary report of the findings of that group, including new vision and mission statements, as well as the stated general intention of our Army to love God and love others as best we can.

To be clear: this is contentious work. Every Salvationist will have their own thoughts on what these statements should say and some, I’m sure, will applaud and welcome these statements while others will want to question them. That is the tension we have to hold as Christians with individual theological, ecclesiastical and missiological viewpoints, seeking to serve together, corporately, in one Army and one territory. To that end, I thank the members of the ITF and its leaders, Lieut-Colonels Drew McCombe and Dean Pallant, for their attention to a difficult but significant task.

Throughout this week’s issue you will find other evidence of Salvation Army identity. General John Larsson (Retired) writes of some historical conversions and unique mission responses. Some young Salvationists share about raising awareness of the need to care for God’s creation. We read a wonderful story of personal transformation. We explore Scripture. Elsewhere, Major Nigel Bovey talks about the Kingdom of Heaven and what Jesus said about it.

All of it links in with our identity as The Salvation Army, who we are and who we aspire to be. I pray that as you read through this Salvationist, you have a new sense of who God has called us to be – together, in his name.

From the Editor-in-Chief Major Mal Davies

Quotes from the media

2 4 to 6

News Prayer matters

6

Army snippets

7

shared by General John Larsson (Retired)

Feature Rise to the moment

8 and 9

by Lizzy Kitchenside, Hannah Potter and Yelena Grase Jurkenas

Stories of transformation Arthur White: A force for God

10

by Major Rosemary Dawson

Exploring The Salvation Army’s God-given identity 11 to 14

by Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe and Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant

Viewpoint The Old Testament: A Christian understanding

15

by Major John Waters

Interview Unlocking the gates

16 and 17

Major Nigel Bovey talks to Emily Bright

Bible study The fruit of the Spirit

18 and 19

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts

Through the week with Salvationist 18 and 19

by Major Lynda Levis

Fundraising

20

Adverts

21 and 23

Announcements

22 and 23

General knowledge quiz

24

by Garry D Reed

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

Salvationist 4 September 2021

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NEWS

ARMY NEWS

Army responds to rough sleeping report UKI THE Salvation Army has welcomed the conclusions of an interim report from the Kerslake Commission on Rough Sleeping and Homelessness. The Army agrees that, if the government acts now, it can build on the progress made by the Everyone In scheme during the pandemic, which took rough sleepers off the streets and saved lives.

Recent data from Chain (Combined Homelessness and Information Network) shows that more than 11,000 people were recorded as sleeping rough in London in 2020/2021 – a 3 per cent increase on the previous year, and a 94 per cent increase in the past decade.

Secretary for Communications LieutColonel Dean Pallant said: ‘Much more needs to be done to ensure the long-term legacy of the Everyone In campaign. Long-term solutions are needed to avoid spiralling costs and rising numbers of people experiencing homelessness once the furlough scheme and other government support finish at the end of September. We agree with the commission that the £20 uplift in universal credit should be kept and that homelessness prevention strategies need further investment.

‘Tackling homelessness requires more than just providing housing. Services must help people who need support to tackle the wider issues that lead to homelessness, including addiction, debt and unemployment.

‘Schemes like Housing First offer that essential wrap-around support, and so we were pleased to see the commission highlight the importance of the Housing First approach.

We have seen first-hand how effective combining housing with support is with our Housing First programmes in Scotland and Wales.

‘The Salvation Army have also proved that innovative housing solutions like Malachi Place – a modular building project [in Ilford] – are cost effective ways of targeting homelessness. We would like to see these projects extended to other areas.

‘The government has the opportunity to ensure the abolition of rough sleeping becomes a major part of [its] legacy. As the Kerslake Commission makes clear, this is a turning point where that commitment must start to become a reality.’ – AR 4

Salvationist 4 September 2021

EVENT IRELAND While different from previous years, a great time was had by all at the divisional junior camp. Running over two days, the camp took the theme Team Builders and looked at Joseph and his brothers. Lieutenant Sharon Stevens (Dundonald) and her team of volunteers shared how everyone brings a different gift to the team and that no one’s gift is better than someone else’s. The young people also looked at the team that Jesus picked to be his disciples, discovering that they were all different but that God used them all. They were reminded that God wants everyone on his team no matter what their age, colour or background. The children also had the opportunity to work together in outdoor sports. The week ended with the children being invited to join Jesus’ team and think about what they could bring to it. Everyone then went outside for a big water fight – adults included! – SS SUDBURY The corps has set up a school uniform swap shop to help struggling families. People can attend drop-in sessions where they can take donated items. Parents are also encouraged to donate children’s uniforms that may no longer be needed, providing they are in a good condition.

Corps officer Lieutenant Rachel Hepburn told the Suffolk Free Press: ‘The scheme passes on pre-loved and outgrown uniforms to new homes.

About 1.4 million wearable school uniform items are thrown away each year in the UK. We’ve had amazing donations. The cost of the uniforms is prohibitive so this should take the pressure off families.’ – AR

11,000+ people sleeping rough in London SEE PAGE 4

£100k

donated to combat homelessness SEE PAGE 5

£2,400 raised for corps funds SEE PAGE 5

500

bottles of water given out in a day SEE PAGE 5

COMMUNITY

Funding secured for housing project SOUTHEND FUNDING has been secured for a project to rehabilitate people experiencing homelessness in specially designed modular homes.

The Salvation Army joined forces with Citizens UK and housing developer Hill Group to set up the SHC Partnership, which has started work on the project in the town and other locations around the country.

The project had been thrown into doubt because of an £80,000 shortfall, until they received an unexpected donation.

Southend Citadel corps officer Captain Tracey Bale led efforts to secure local funding.

She explained: ‘We were asked to raise £5,000, which we did through people’s generosity. I spoke to Southend council to

ask for help and it was looking unlikely.

But within a couple of days, we received a letter from a housing association that was closing who wanted to give us £100,000.’

The letter was from Andrew Conway at St Saviour’s Housing Association, a Christian organisation.

‘Andrew was really excited and emotional, as this was confirmation their work would be continuing,’ said Captain Tracey.

Attention has now turned to securing planning permission for the scheme and it is hoped that the first residents could move in towards the end of the year.

As well as providing accommodation, support workers will work closely with residents helping them to adjust to their new lives.

There are thought to be around 70 people experiencing homelessness in Southend. Recent statistics show the town ranks 8th on the list of the UK’s 10 worst homelessness hotspots.

Captain Tracey added: ‘Southend council does not have any spare accommodation so this project will make a big difference.’ – AR

COMMUNITY

FUNDRAISING OUTREACH RUTHERGLEN The daily lunch club recommenced for the first time in 16 months. Covid-19 safety measures meant that tables were unlaid, cutlery was distributed individually, face masks were always worn by volunteers and names were taken from behind a clear screen.

However, everyone was glad to be back.

Most members attended all week, with an average of 21 people each day. ‘It’s just great to see everyone again,’ said one member. – CW

WATFORD Alison Hayward, pastoral and mental health lead at Beechfield School, tandem skydived from 13,000 feet, raising more than £2,400 for the corps. Alison decided to take on the challenge after seeing how the corps supports vulnerable families in their community.

‘Since 2019 Beechfield School and the corps have had an amazing partnership, supporting some of the most disadvantaged children and families in Watford.

I’m taking the plunge so that we can continue to support those in our town who need it most,’ said Alison. – MS

CARDIFF People were given a helping hand to stay cool during July’s heatwave after The Salvation Army set up its emergency support vehicle in the city centre.

Corps officers and volunteers handed out bottles of cold water throughout the hottest part of the day and provided an area of shade where people could sit and rest. More than 500 bottles of water were distributed in one day. Outreach workers and ambulance teams could also access the supply of water to help people needing assistance. Major Neville Andrews, emergency services co-ordinator for South and Mid Wales, and Major David Woodman (Cardiff Canton corps officer) were also on hand. Major Neville said that everyone involved was pleased to help. ‘It also gave us an opportunity to talk to people about the important ministries of the Army, including our work at emergency incidents,’ he added. – TG Salvationist 4 September 2021

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NEWS

BIG COLLECTION FOCUS

by Major Christine Kingscott, assistant secretary for spiritual life development (THQ)

OUTREACH SALISBURY Tapping into a need for affordable bikes, the corps shop has extended its range to include surplus cycles donated by the public.

The pilot scheme has generated lots of interest, including enquiries about both donations and purchases. The display of bikes outside the hall has also increased sales in the charity shop and brought more people into a knowledge of what The Salvation Army represents. ‘We wanted to connect more with our neighbourhood,’ said corps officer Captain Martin Davison.

‘Formalising the sale of bikes makes sense, especially as the council have introduced many more cycle lanes in the city streets.’ – MD

SATURDAY 4 SEPTEMBER The Salvation Army, through its care homes, day centres and weekly community programmes, provides vital opportunities for people in their later years to experience the practical care and support, companionship and friendship of others. Almighty God, we give thanks for all who provide care and support for those who are older.

Give them the compassion, energy and wisdom to provide for the physical, practical and emotional needs of residents and those who attend day provision. Help us to appreciate the wisdom and guidance that older people can offer. We also thank you for their memories which help us understand the rich tapestry of life, and for the fine upright example many have set before us. Amen.

SUNDAY 5 SEPTEMBER Read Isaiah 61:1–3. These verses remind us that God wants all men, women and children to live in freedom. Sadly, though, there are many who are trapped by fear and enslaved by others. Father God, we pray today for all those who have been coerced or entrapped, taken from their homes and families and forced into unwanted work for the benefit of others. Lord, we pray for your guidance and wisdom for all those who work to bring freedom and hope to those who are held captive. In your name. Amen.

THE PROMISES OF GOD FOCUS

by Major Christine Kingscott

MONDAY 6 SEPTEMBER – I WILL BE WITH YOU ‘As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you’ (Joshua 1:5). Reflect for a moment on ‘I will be with you’. When was the last time you were overcome by God’s presence? Give thanks for his precious promises.

TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER – I WILL PROTECT YOU ‘Remember, I will be with you and protect you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done all that I have promised you’ (Genesis 28:15 Good News Bible). Lord, you are my shield and protector, help me to remember today that as you were with Moses and Joshua, you are with your people today. I need not fear for you are with me. I will put my trust in you.

EVENT CARDIFF ELY Twenty people attended the first Messy Church since December 2019.

Although things were different due to Covid19 safety measures, everyone enjoyed crafts and activities themed around the story of Noah and were reminded of God’s promise with the rainbow. – PS

FUNDRAISING WINCHESTER Fashion students from Winchester School of Art reworked garments made from Salvation Army donations as part of a project called Future You / Future Fashion. The garments were sold in a pop-up shop during the school’s fashion week. All proceeds were donated to the Army. – AR

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Salvationist 4 September 2021

WEDNESDAY 8 SEPTEMBER – I WILL BE YOUR STRENGTH ‘Do not be afraid – I am with you! I am your God – let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect and save you’ (Isaiah 41:10 GNB).

‘You are my strength and comfort,/ You are my steady hand,/ You are my firm foundation,/ The rock on which I stand./ Your ways are always higher,/ Your plans are always good,/ There’s not a place where I’ll go/ You’ve not already stood’ (‘Trust in You’).

THURSDAY 9 SEPTEMBER – I WILL ANSWER YOU ‘Call to me, and I will answer you; I will tell you wonderful and marvellous things that you know nothing about’ (Jeremiah 33:3 GNB). Lord, in your word it tells me that if I call upon your name you will be there. I sometimes struggle with this because, if I’m being honest, this has not always been my experience. There have been times when I have not received an answer or when the answer was not what I expected or wanted. In those times Lord, help me to realise that you know what I need.

FRIDAY 10 SEPTEMBER – I WILL PROVIDE FOR YOU ‘And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4:19). ‘All good gifts around us/ Are sent from Heaven above:/ Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord,/ For all his love!’ (SASB 70). l A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources

Article for Salvationist due 12pm

Army s t e p p i sn

1878 1890

Thirteen Astonishing Years That Shaped The Salvation Army

ning, Burning, bur g, nin always bur stay Holy Spirit, with me; l my To your wil g, will is turnin I will What you . be.. to t wan

... shared by General John Larsson (Retired)

CAT EXPORT OF the many ingenious ways in which the Army has met human need, one of the most extraordinary happened in 1907 when The Salvation Army in Britain exported a vast shipment of cats to Gujarat in northwest India.

In cages on the ship’s deck were cats of every kind – big cats, thin cats, cats of every colour and breed. By the time these Salvation Army cats arrived they were hissing and yowling with anger at being shut away for so long. They were ready for action and needed no training – they knew what to do.

The state of Gujarat was being ravaged by a virulent epidemic. People were dying in their thousands. The medical experts had concluded that the epidemic was being spread by rats, and also noted that households with cats were being spared – for the cats ate the rats. ‘More cats needed!’ became their cry. So the Army sprang into action – and soon hundreds of cats were on their way.

The cats were so effective at halting the epidemic that the Japanese government heard about it and imported a large consignment of cats to beat a similar epidemic there.

A TROPHY OF GRACE EXTRAORDINAIRE IF a picture gallery of early Army trophies of grace had been made, the portrait of Poll Cott would have stood out.

Beginning her criminal career as a child in Ireland, she continued it in New South Wales after she was deported to Australia, aged 16.

Drunk hundreds of times, hated by other women, feared by children, avoided by men, she lived a vicious and violent life in the Maitland area. She smashed broken bottles on the heads of bartenders and had been known to hurl a policeman into the river. Many Army trophies of grace had served prison sentences, some more than once. But Poll Cott was in prison a staggering 257 times – and because of her violence was held in solitary confinement for a total of 11 years.

Soon after the Army reached Maitland in the early 1880s corps officer Captain William Rundle bumped into her.

Smiling, he apologised and invited her home for dinner.

After she had been fed, cleaned up and had sobered down, the officer spoke to her of the transformation that the power of Jesus Christ could bring to her life. Suddenly Poll, the hardened convict, began to cry. ‘O God, save me,’ she prayed, and an extraordinary miracle happened – her whole life was changed in an instant.

For the next 20 years Poll Cott lived to testify to God’s power to transform lives. As a uniformed Salvationist she witnessed in the streets to her amazed former companions, and she died in the faith after having won many for the Lord.

HE WALKED FOR SIX DAYS TO SAVE A WOMAN IN 2007 Captain Michael Dengi, a corps officer in Papua New Guinea, heard about a woman living with Aids in a distant village who was being inhumanely mistreated.

Captain Michael had a heart for HIV/Aids sufferers, but to reach her he had to travel by car and canoe and then walk for six days through the jungle.

When he arrived at the village after dark he discovered that the woman was tied up and living with the village pigs.

She was forced to live there because, in the local culture of superstition, no one would touch a person who had Aids.

In the early morning hours Captain Michael rang the village bell and walked the villagers out to the woman. She was filthy and covered in her own faeces. He picked her up,

untied her, took off her clothes and burnt them, then gently bathed her and dressed her in clean clothes. He then built a fire and prepared a cup of tea, all without saying a word. He gave the tea to the woman and asked her to drink it. Then, to the utter astonishment of the villagers, he took the cup from her and drank the remains of the tea himself.

Turning to the crowd he told them that this woman could in no way infect any of them except through sexual contact.

He took the woman’s arm and slowly escorted her back into the village, where she took her rightful place not only in her home but also in her church.

Captain Michael then began his journey home by walking for six days.

Salvationist Salvationist4Day September Month 2021 2020

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FEATURE I COP26

Rise to the moment

Three young people from Addlestone Corps explain why they took part in the Young Christian Climate Network Relay to COP26

A

HEAD of the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow in November, the Young Christian Climate Network (YCCN) has organised a relay pilgrimage to raise awareness of the climate crisis and show they care about climate justice and creation care.

The YCCN, an action-focused community of Christians in the UK aged between 18 and 30, began the walk in June in Cornwall, where the G7 summit was held. The relay will end in Glasgow at the end of October.

Three participants from Addlestone Corps explain why they’re taking part.

LIZZY KITCHENSIDE, 18 My passion for environmental issues and climate change stems from my Christian faith, so when I saw a Christian network dedicated to just that, I knew that I had to get involved somehow. I joined the relay because I believe that systemic change is required to combat climate change. Although we can make individual changes in our lives, such as eating a plant-based diet or recycling, much bigger change is also needed. Only policy and nationwide change can generate this. I hope that the relay to COP26 will share this much-needed message to the wider Church and world.

The world was created by God. In even the tiniest of details we can see the Creator at work. Creation praises and glorifies God – it points us to him, the Creator. It’s the most natural piece of theology we have. This gift from God was created for us to share and enjoy, to sustain life and, ultimately, point us to God, but instead we have chosen to dominate it for selfish gain. We as Christians – stewards of the Earth – must do all that we can to protect it, to sustain the gift of life given by God and to glorify him.

Salvationists are called to serve suffering humanity, and so much of humanity’s suffering is exacerbated by climate change. Greed, money and exploitation of both people and resources have led to huge injustices throughout the world, such as extreme weather conditions that cause drought or floods. Climate change fuels poverty, disease and hunger – social issues that The Salvation Army has been fighting for years. How can we ignore one of the main contributors, especially when we have so many of the solutions right in front of us and an almighty God on our side?

My prayer for the future is that the Church would make sustainability one of its core values in worship and mission.

I want to see change so big and a world transformed so incredibly that it can only point to the power of God! I believe that he has given us all the answers through technology, people and Scripture so I pray that we would take time to listen to God, turn towards him and away from our selfish desires and make the changes required to not only save his wonderful creation but to see it flourish. Ultimately, I pray that everyone would see hope on the horizon and strive to make it a reality, building God’s Kingdom right here on Earth.

HANNAH POTTER, 22 I joined the relay after hearing about it from a couple of my friends. I have an increasing passion for climate justice and my faith plays a large part in influencing that passion. I was so excited to find a Christian network rising up, embodying Christ and engaging in creation care. I, like many, want to see a systematic change both globally and locally to reverse the damage caused by climate change. It needs to happen sooner rather than later! I wanted to join the movement to show how much we need to care about climate justice and raise awareness of COP26 to the wider Church and the world.

As Christians, glorifying God in all we do, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ encompasses and extends to fighting for climate justice and caring for creation. We see natural disasters, poverty, hunger and suffering as a result of climate change, and our hearts break – this is not how God intended his people to live.

God is our creator, and he is with us – a truth that every day is declared by the beauty, intricacy and intelligence of creation. When God created the world and everything in it, he saw it was ‘good’ (Genesis 1:31). We are told in the Bible that ‘the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands’ (Psalm 19:1). The Earth has been gifted to us to share, enjoy, care for, love and cherish just as God does, not for us to damage, exploit and misuse as we are currently doing.

William Booth fought for the most vulnerable people in society. We still emulate Jesus in this way today. So, when the Earth is crying out and creation needs us, as Christ’s ambassadors and God’s Army, we need to fight against climate change and make a stand. God will be there fighting and standing with us!

My prayer for the future is that the Church would listen to God and the creation he has blessed us with and remember that he is in control. That the Holy Spirit would stir up the hearts and minds of the world and of the leaders at COP26 so that the right action is taken to begin to combat climate change. I pray that we will be open to God so that he can use us and work through us to bring all glory and honour to him, to bring about justice for the climate and for people, and that lives are transformed by the power of God. I pray that God’s will is done and that we will be rooted in him as we strive and pray for radical changes locally and globally. Lord, help us as Christians, to stand and shine for you in issues of climate change and be bold in the way we live out your word in caring for creation.

YELENA GRASE JURKENAS, 18 I felt frustrated about the lack of action against climate change and didn’t know what I could do to make a difference. When I stumbled across an advert for the relay, I knew something was different and this time I would stand up, ready to act.

The advert talked about rising to the moment and seizing the opportunity to influence world leaders at COP26. The walk is an act of faith, hope and love designed to advocate that, above all, no country should be pushed into debt because of climate change. This encouraging approach enticed me and called me to join in. I yearned to do more for climate activism and wanted to spread the word about it in the Christian community.

I think that Christians should care about climate change because God entrusted humans to be stewards of the Earth in Genesis. Climate change has previously been seen as unconnected to Christian matters of importance as it is believed that this planet will not be our eternal home. I find this to be an immense injustice and want to spread the word about Christian stewardship encompassing action against climate change. God calls us to love and care for others. That means we should preserve our planet for future generations as an extension of our love for others.

My prayer for the future is for Christians across denominations to join together to protect the planet God entrusted to us. I would love to see the Church paving the way for a more planet-conscious future.

Salvationist 4 September 2021

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FEATURE I Stories of transformation

Arthur White: A force for God Major Rosemary Dawson continues a series in which she remembers some of the inspirational people she met while working on the War Cry

A

SEVEN-TIME British powerlifting champion, three-time world champion and five-time European champion, Arthur White is a force to be reckoned with. But soon after his first world championship victory in 1992, Arthur’s dependence on steroids, amphetamines and cocaine sent him on a downward spiral of self-destruction.

In 1993 his life was changed by an even greater force: the love of God. When I met him, Arthur was still competing to win, but without reliance on drugs.

‘I started taking steroids for bodybuilding, which led to amphetamines and cocaine,’ he said. ‘People think drugs are an easy fix in sport, but they nearly destroyed me.

Like any addiction, they took over. I am not proud of that, but now I use my experience to warn others. I’ve been born again, in the truest sense – my heart was badly damaged, and that’s been healed.’

Arthur grew up in Essex and started a carpentry business in the late 1960s. He went to the gym to keep fit and then took up bodybuilding.

‘I was at my lowest between October 1992 and March 1993,’ he recalled. ‘I’d left my wife, Jacqui, and two children, and was having an affair. I tried to cut my throat several times, but just couldn’t do it.

‘Jacqui knew about the steroids, but not about the others or the money involved. I spent £700 a week on drugs and took extra jobs as a debt collector and club doorman to pay for them.

‘I planned a new life in South Africa with my girlfriend and withdrew £35,000 10

Salvationist 4 September 2021

from our bank account. We blew the money on drink and drugs, but nothing had any lasting attraction. I came home to earn some money.

‘It was Christmas and I promised Jacqui I’d stay – but by New Year I was off again. She’d always taken me back but finding out about my affair was the last straw. When she said, “Never again,” I’d never felt so lonely.’

In Tenerife with his girlfriend, Arthur sat on the beach watching the dawn break.

His mind was in torment, racked with guilt, remorse, anger and loneliness.

The waves seemed to beckon him to a watery grave. Then he heard a voice say: ‘You cannot take your own life.’

He looked around but saw no one.

‘I looked up to the sky and shouted, “Who are you?” The voice answered: “I am your Father.” I really thought I’d flipped, so went back to the hotel and took some cocaine.’

Back in England, Arthur’s girlfriend asked him to settle an argument over drugs with a man in a club. ‘The man legged it up the street, which was a dead end,’ Arthur said. ‘I stabbed him in the back; he tried to run, so I did it again, punched him a few times, and was about to cut his ear off when I heard a voice: “Arthur, stop!”

‘I froze and looked around. There was nobody near, just a big crowd watching from the club.

‘I knew I needed help. My daughter had become a Christian, and Jacqui was going to church too. I’d never thought about church before – Christianity was for wimps, not champion weightlifters!

But at Jacqui’s suggestion, I talked to a church bloke who said I needed to change.

‘That happened one morning in March 1993 in the car park at Spitalfields Market. I literally shook my fist at God and challenged him to sort me out. I expected the heavens to open up, but instead felt a deep warm peace inside.

‘I threw my knife and drugs away. But turning my life around was really difficult, especially with terrible withdrawal symptoms.

‘I prayed hard to Jesus to help me and went to counselling and Bible study sessions. Jacqui and I made our commitment to Christ at the same time; now we enjoy worshipping together.’

For years afterwards Arthur visited schools, youth clubs and prisons as a member of the charity Tough Talk, talking to men with similar backgrounds whose lives were changed by God. ‘A Hell’s Angel once said to me, “If God can change a scumbag like you, he can change anybody.” I took it as a compliment. As a Christian, I’m more of a man now than I ever was on drugs – and I’ve regained the love and respect of my wife and children.’

MAJOR DAWSON LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN ST AUSTELL l Based

on an article published in the War Cry, 9 July 2005

Exploring The Salvation Army’s God-given identity Secretary for Mission Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe and Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant present the findings of the Identity Task Force

Salvation Army history shows what can happen when a powerful message is communicated effectively, empowered by a life-changing identity

I

N late 2019 we were appointed to lead an Identity Task Force to review the vision, mission and values statements used by The Salvation Army in this territory. The work was necessary because our current identity is inconsistently understood and presented. Corps, centres and headquarters use a variety of mission, vision and values statements and logos. People involved with The Salvation Army have different understandings as to who we are and what differences we seek from our work.

A strong, consistent identity helps answer questions such as ‘Who are we?’, ‘What are we doing?’ and ‘What do we want to be in the future?’

These are important questions for everyone involved in the life of the Army – not just THQ. Any organisation’s identity can become confused and even contradictory. This is a particular risk for The Salvation Army because we are involved in so many different activities.

We are not simply a local evangelical church. Neither are we only a homelessness charity or a social service agency or a chain of charity shops or groups of musicians or an insurance company or a leader in the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery. All this work makes a vital contribution to Salvation Army life and the good of society. Our diverse identity is a strength, but it can also be a weakness if we disagree about our vision, mission and values.

The Salvation Army’s identity is God-given and God-sustained but it is vulnerable to being shaped by ungodly pressures that squeeze and distort it. The Army needs an identity that is dynamic and generates godly energy to ensure we faithfully serve the present age.

We are part of the universal Church, raised up by God with a unique identity and proud history. However, in every generation, The Salvation Army needs to explore its God-given identity. Our identity must have the capacity to make sense to today’s Salvation Army members as well as employees, volunteers, the people we serve, our supporters and our ecumenical partners. The Salvation Army’s identity needs to be large enough to encompass all aspects of our work in the one ‘tent’.

In our deliberations with the task force, as well as with the Territorial Leaders Conference, Territorial Advisory Council and other groups, we identified serious risks in allowing different identities (‘tents’) to conflict and confuse. God’s identity for The Salvation Army must animate every aspect of work with life and love.

The Salvation Army made sense to people in the 1880s and 1890s. In the 10 years after The Christian Mission became The Salvation Army almost 1,000 corps were opened in the UK and Salvation Army work started in 21 other countries, from the USA to Australia, Canada to the Netherlands, Jamaica to India, Norway to South Africa. The Salvation Army had a vision and mission for the world that inspired and motivated all kinds of people. Salvation Army history shows what can happen when a powerful message is communicated effectively, empowered by a life-changing identity.

However, the words and images used by the first Salvationists do not have the same impact today. For example, the motto ‘Blood and Fire’ does not make sense to contemporary UK society. We still believe in the vital power of the blood of Jesus and the fire of the Holy Spirit, but we need other words to communicate these eternal truths. Even the identity and methods used in the 1990s and 2000s won’t necessarily connect today. In a rapidly changing world we must pay careful attention to our identity.

We have a distinctive and trusted reputation. A nationally representative sample of 1,000 adults recently reported that, when prompted, 90 per cent of people know of The Salvation Army and 64 per cent say they have seen the red shield logo in the past six months. Seventy per cent say they trust The Salvation Army a ‘great deal or quite a lot’. We must build upon our existing identity to ensure our Army connects, inspires and transforms people and society in the power of the Holy Spirit.

LOVE GOD, LOVE OTHERS The Identity Task Force was advised by a Christian who is also an expert in communications. He felt The Salvation Army required more than a vision statement, a mission statement and a set of values. He urged us to agree a few words that explain who we are and frame everything we do.

After much prayer, reflection and discussion we agreed on four words. ‘Love God, Love Others’, based on Jesus’ greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37–39 to ‘love the Lord your God’ and ‘love your neighbour as yourself’. ‘Love God, Love Others’ underpins, inspires and motivates everything we do in every part of The Salvation Army. We must not simply love God and ignore others. Neither should we love others and behave as if God does not exist. The Salvation Army’s wellspring, its driving force, is summarised in ‘Love God, Love Others’.

OUR VISION The territory also needs a measurable vision statement to help us capture the difference we want to make in the world. After much discussion, the Cabinet approved a new vision statement: ‘Fullness of life for all with Jesus.’

This is ‘Our Vision’ for every part of The Salvation Army. It is inspired by the words of Jesus: ‘I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full’ (John 10:10).

No words can adequately capture the vision of boundless salvation that God intends for the world and everything in it. However, ‘Fullness of life for all with Jesus’ includes every aspect of Salvation Army life. We believe everyone can enjoy fullness of life with Jesus. It is aspirational – we are not there yet – but this is what we strive towards.

Our mission SHARE THE GOOD NEWS At the heart of The Salvation Army’s mission is a passion to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ far and wide. This is not an optional extra. The Salvation Army only does what it does because our inspiration and vision come from people’s ongoing relationship with Jesus.

We know the difference our relationship with God makes in our lives and we don’t want anyone to miss out.

OUR MISSION Having agreed ‘Our Vision’ we need to know how we are going to get there. ‘Our Mission’ focuses on five key priorities. They are not arranged hierarchically. They overlap and mutually support each other.

When these priorities are present, The Salvation Army is working towards ‘Our Vision’ of ‘fullness of life for all with Jesus’. Each of the five priorities of ‘Our Mission’ is rich in meaning and helps us explain to 21st-century society why the Christian message and the work of The Salvation Army are relevant and desperately needed in our communities and nations.

Of course, this is not all new. The Army’s identity comes from God whose purposes are unchanging. ‘Our Mission’ builds upon ‘saving souls, growing saints and serving suffering humanity’. The TIDE mission priorities (transformation, integration, discipleship and effectiveness) are being taken forward, for example, by the Structural Co-ordination and Design Group, who are focusing on transformation, integration and streamlining. As the writer of Ecclesiastes stated: ‘History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new’ (Ecclesiastes 1:9 New Living Translation). However, we need to find fresh ways to communicate the good news of God’s love to every generation.

The Identity Task Force was also tasked with affirming the territory’s values. Due to the pandemic we did not complete this work, which is being taken forward by a group chaired by Major Beverly Baker. They are making good progress so you can expect to hear more about ‘Our Values’ soon.

SERVE OTHERS WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION The Salvation Army responds to people without discrimination. God calls us to be with the people we serve. In ‘being with’ people – as against ‘doing for’ people – together we find solutions and make progress because we are all made in the image of God. We are called to share love in a too often loveless world. ‘Love God, Love Others’ inspires every aspect of our work.

NURTURE DISCIPLES OF JESUS The future of The Salvation Army depends on nurturing current and future generations of Christian disciples who, filled by the Holy Spirit, share the good news of Jesus, resulting in more disciples. Like athletes, Christian disciples need to practise staying fit for God’s demanding mission. Habits such as prayer, Bible reading, corporate worship, music, tithing and helping others are vital. The Salvation Army believes being a disciple of Jesus and experiencing the blessing of holiness is the way to experience fullness of life.

CARE FOR CREATION The Salvation Army is committed to helping change attitudes, resulting in a more responsible use of our planet. We seek to provide practical care and advocacy for people affected by damage to the environment. People will not experience fullness of life unless God’s creation is protected and cared for.

SEEK JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION People can experience a fuller life while we are on Earth – we don’t have to wait until we die.

God longs for justice for all people. Therefore, The Salvation Army will speak out against injustice. We fight not simply the effects of injustice but also the systems and structures that enable injustice. Seeking reconciliation is also an essential part of Salvation Army life.

Justice and reconciliation are vital activities to achieving ‘Our Vision’ of ‘fullness of life for all with Jesus’.

Our identity principles In addition to the three new statements, the Cabinet have approved a set of principles to guide and strengthen the identity of The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Our Identity Principles are: l

The identity of The Salvation Army originates in God and is rooted in God – Father, Son and Spirit.

l

The Salvation Army must be Spirit-filled and life-giving for all people.

l

The Salvation Army must consistently explore, embrace and strengthen our God-given, God-inspired identity, which is part of the mission of God in the world and the wider Church.

l

The identity of The Salvation Army must be faithful to God’s purposes and relevant and engaging to a range of audiences. For example, the general public, corps members, employees, supporters, volunteers, officers, media and parliament.

l

The Salvation Army’s identity must be big enough for every part of the territory to understand itself and be appreciated as part of one Salvation Army, contributing to ‘Our Mission’. Fragmentation or narrowing the identity of the Army poses a risk to an inclusive and diverse Salvation Army.

Every part of the Army is welcome to use the three new statements, but we are not having a big rebranding launch. Rather, THQ will start using the new statements and develop and share resources that explain and promote our reimagined identity.

We thank the members of the Identity Task Force for their hard work and commitment. We pray this work will strengthen and embed our God-given identity into every aspect of Salvation Army life. We, the people who serve and work through The Salvation Army, need to understand who we are and why we do what we do.

We need to be clear, confident and consistent as we live out the gospel of Jesus and ‘Love God, Love Others’ in every aspect of our lives. May God help us do this faithfully and fruitfully.

VIEW POINT

The Old Testament A Christian understanding Major John Waters begins a four-part series exploring how to understand the Old Testament from a Christian perspective

W

HAT is a Christian to make of the Old Testament? On the one hand, we Salvationists have an article of faith clearly stating that both the Old and New Testaments are equally and divinely inspired. On the other hand, there are events, attitudes and behaviours described in the Old Testament that are as unlike Christ as can be imagined.

One response is to accept the ‘good bits’ and ignore the ‘bad bits’. So, for example, we are inspired by Psalm 1 or Psalm 91 but rarely read Psalm 3:7 – ‘Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked’ – and certainly not the ending of Psalm 137: ‘Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks’ (v9).

But this pick-and-mix method is not a credible procedure and leads to a very subjective interpretation of Scripture. What is needed are principles of interpretation that allow us to understand the Old Testament as a whole, warts and all. This series will describe some of the problems and suggest some solutions.

When I was a cadet studying at the training college one of the underlying theories was that the Old Testament is a record of the divine self-revelation: gradually God revealed his nature to the faithful as they were able to understand it.

Amos could teach that God was just, Hosea that he was loving and forgiving, and Isaiah that he was holy. But while this principle may be acceptable as far as such positive attributes are concerned, it does not explain negative behaviours attributed to God, some of which we would condemn in human activity, let alone in divine activity. Why would God reveal himself at any time as vindictive, exceptionally cruel and – equally difficult – capricious and unreliable?

The answer is that he is not and did not.

We do not believe in a god like those of the Greek myths, for example, who were all of these things. The God of the Old Testament is no different to the God of the New Testament and, being true to himself, he could never pretend to be otherwise. Yet in the Old Testament there are many fearful things attributed to God that are clearly alien to his character and which opponents of religion use to discredit faith.

How, then, do we square the circle?

One solution is to consider the Old Testament not only as a record of God’s self-revelation but also humankind’s religious progress – the gradually evolving and deepening of thought arising from experience and people’s reflection upon it.

Evidence of just such a development may be seen in Genesis 22, with its story of Abraham and the intended sacrifice of his only son. Abraham, perhaps influenced by the practice of surrounding tribes, was convinced that obedience to God demanded this ritual killing and, more significantly, attributed his conviction to a conversation with God. In this conversation, Abraham is not only instructed to make the sacrifice but also given direction about the location where the ritual should take place. The fact that the sacrifice was cancelled at the last minute does not contradict the integrity of Abraham’s initial belief, mistaken though it was.

Subsequently, child sacrifice is condemned by the Levitical Law and the prophets, but this is not due to a

change of the divine mind, for God ‘never commanded such a horrible deed’ (Jeremiah 32:35 New Living Translation). God did not change – he is the ‘same yesterday and today and for ever’ (Hebrews 13:8). What has changed is the human perception of what he requires of us.

In other words, the Old Testament reveals what people thought about God and his purposes and outlines the development from primitive and immature concepts to those that, certainly in the prophetic literature, are much nearer to the truth.

Much of what we now consider alien to God’s character can thus be attributed not to his real nature but to humankind’s limited understanding of it. The Old Testament faithfully records that limitation and humankind’s gradual progress towards enlightenment.

MAJOR WATERS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BIDDULPH MOOR

Next week What was the writers’ purpose?

Salvationist 4 September 2021

15

INTERVIEW

Unlocking the gates

Major Nigel Bovey tells Emily Bright about his new book exploring the Kingdom of God

I

T all began with a compelling concept.

While writing his previous book, Browsing the Bible, Major Nigel Bovey noticed a couple of phrases in the Gospels that kept jumping out – the ‘Kingdom of God’ and the ‘Kingdom of Heaven’.

‘I didn’t have the opportunity then to delve deeper because I was writing about Revelation and beyond,’ recalls Nigel. ‘So I thought: “I’ll come back and have a look at that.”’

In his latest book, Keys of the Kingdom, he does exactly that.

‘I tried to put into 400 words the essential message of each of the 52 occasions in the Gospels where Jesus – or occasionally John the Baptist – talks about the Kingdom of Heaven,’ Nigel explains.

‘The book also provides opportunities to ponder relevant questions that relate to the passages of Scripture and my brief analysis thereof, and personal prayers that relate to it.’

Keys of the Kingdom comes out of Nigel’s experience of being a preacher and Bible teacher of 40 odd years, and tries to distil the truth of what Jesus says.

Throughout his ministry, Jesus refers to the Kingdom of God and Kingdom of Heaven over 100 times, more than any other subject.

‘I did a word count of famed or popular sermon topics such as “forgiveness”, “love”, “trust”, “faith” and so on,’ Nigel says. ‘But Jesus doesn’t talk as much about those as he does the Kingdom of Heaven.’

While some may acknowledge Jesus’ emphasis on God’s Kingdom, they may perceive it as a past or future concept.

However, Nigel explains that the Kingdom is not just ‘a pie in the sky when you die’. Instead, in his book, he highlights how we wield life-transforming power in the present day through the Holy Spirit. He takes inspiration from what Jesus models.

‘Time and again, people’s lives are being radically altered because of the presence of Jesus,’ says Nigel. ‘They have more than just a feel-good factor, renewal of faith or encouragement.

Some of them are physically changed as Jesus heals the sick, delivers them from demons, cleanses lepers and raises the dead. That same lifechanging ministry of healing and reconciliation is alive today.’

While the Kingdom of God can be a tangible reality for all of us today, living out Jesus’ teaching is countercultural and can be extraordinarily challenging.

‘If you read the Sermon on the Mount,’ Nigel continues, ‘you recognise quite quickly and easily that what Jesus is talking about is a whole new way of life.

And it goes beyond the law. It’s not just actions that count, it’s attitudes. If we get our attitudes right, our actions will follow.’

During his time on Earth, Jesus sets out the priorities of the Kingdom and examines the attitudes of people against his heavenly yardstick – where love supersedes success.

‘The conversation with the rich young ruler shows that your bank balance counts for nothing in the Kingdom of Heaven,’ observes Nigel. ‘That is completely against this world’s culture of acquisition, attainment and ambition.

‘Rather, God’s Kingdom is ruled by love. When talking to the rich young ruler, Jesus quotes the daily Shema prayer from Deuteronomy: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your strength and love your neighbour as yourself.” Love is the driving force of the Kingdom.’

Another key characteristic that Nigel explores in his book is joy: ‘I found that, time and again, joy is the overriding emotion of the Kingdom. For instance, in Jesus’ parable of a man who finds treasure in the field unexpectedly, he buys it and goes away with joy. It’s not everyday happiness being described here, but rather a joy that stems from a deep-rooted sense of the presence of God.’ He adds that, as Christians, we have ‘a tendency to lose our sense of joy’ as we become too focused on doing rather than being: ‘Within The Salvation Army, the concept of duty is colossal, and in the wider culture life is about what you do.

Yet Jesus never said: “Do your duty.”

‘The Kingdom of Heaven is never a reward for good behaviour or for extra effort. The Kingdom of Heaven is a state of grace.’

Nigel asserts that we cannot bring about the Kingdom of Heaven in our own strength: ‘You don’t have to read very far into what Jesus says about the Kingdom without realising that the standard of behaviour required is immensely challenging.

‘It’s humanly impossible to live up to the standards that Jesus sets in the Kingdom of Heaven. Without a dynamic within us to refine us, to change our attitudes, to guard and guide our actions, it would be impossible. Indeed, in Romans 3:23, Paul tells us we’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.’

But, Nigel reflects, there is hope when we admit our shortcomings and surrender to God: ‘That’s where the Spirit comes in. It refines our actions, attitudes and reactions to be more like Jesus and shapes us into citizens of the Kingdom.’

Nigel quotes Matthew 16:16–19 as ‘the critical verses’ of his study. In the passage, Peter acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, and Jesus tells Peter: ‘On this rock I will build my Church… I will give you the keys of the Kingdom’ (vv18 and 19).

Some have interpreted this to mean that Peter would be the leader of the early Church, but Nigel takes a different view: ‘The Greek word used for “on this rock” is petra, which means “big rock” or “firm foundation”. It is the same word that Jesus uses when he talks about the wise man who built his house upon a rock.

‘Jesus doesn’t build the Church on one person. He builds it on the affirmation that Peter made: “You are the Christ, the Son of God.” And that is essential to entering the Kingdom: to acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah.

No one gains access without that.’

Nigel sums up the most important revelation of his study: ‘The very heart of being a citizen of the Kingdom is a personal relationship with Jesus the King: the keys of the Kingdom are forged in the nails of the cross.’ l Keys

of the Kingdom is available from sps-shop.com priced £5 (plus postage and packing) and as a Kindle ebook from amazon.co.uk for £4

EMILY IS PROMOTIONS AND MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR IN THE PUBLISHING DEPARTMENT, THQ Salvationist 4 September 2021

17

BIBLE STUDY

The fruit of the Spirit Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts considers qualities that flourish in a Christlike life

GALATIANS 5:22 AND 23

W

HEN our eldest daughter and her husband enjoyed a holiday in Indonesia, every breakfast included a platter of exotic fruit. Several times, they sent me a photo via WhatsApp asking: ‘Mum, which fruit is this?’ I didn’t always know, but it was good to be asked.

In Galatians 5, Paul refers to the fruit of the Spirit – not fruits – and lists nine qualities that flourish in a Christlike life: ‘The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’ (vv22 and 23 New Living Translation).

QUESTION l Can you identify the fruit of the Spirit in your life?

Through the week with Salvationist

– a devotional thought for each day

Unlike the gifts of the Spirit, which differ from person to person and may be assigned individually or severally, the fruit of the Spirit is cultivated in every Christian.

‘The fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart and strength of spirit’ (vv22 and 23 The Passion Translation).

Martin Luther said: ‘It would have been enough to mention only the single fruit of love, for love embraces all the fruits of the Spirit’.

Isn’t it amazing that God is at work in the hearts and lives of ordinary people producing this kind of fruit?

Read John 15:1–8 and reflect on the assurance Jesus gives that if his

SUNDAY ‘As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.’

(John 15:9)

by Major Lynda Levis

Salvationist 4 September 2021

QUESTION l What is your experience of the pruning process?

As we live in Christ, the Holy Spirit is at work, transforming us and making us more like Jesus.

The New Testament Greek word for fruit is karpos. It can describe the fruit of trees and plants and the harvest of a field, as in 2 Timothy 2:6 – ‘The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops.’ Yet there is another level of meaning – the investment of seeds and labour will produce a return of fruit and grain.

The process of growing fruit takes time. Planting the seed, nurturing the first tender shoots and supporting the

MONDAY

Let me love thee, I am gladdest/ When I’m loving thee the best;/ For in sunshine or in sadness/ I can find in thee my rest./ Love will soften every sorrow,/ Love will lighten every care,/ Love Prayer unquestioning will follow,/ Lord, may our lives Love will triumph, love speak of the love of will dare.

Christ – not just in words (SASB 716) but also in actions. May all that we say and do reach out and speak of the Saviour.

18

disciples ‘abide’ in him they will bear ‘much fruit’ (New King James Version).

TUESDAY Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.

Do everything in love.

(1 Corinthians 16:13 and 14)

growing plant until its fruit is ready can take years.

The fruit of the Spirit cannot be produced by our own efforts and this can be hard to grasp. Usually, hard work, persistence and effort are required to provide for ourselves.

Yet here is God’s gift to us – the Holy Spirit to guide us.

In Romans 5:5, we read: ‘God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us’. He enables a process of transformation as we live in relationship with God. There might be times when we feel that our spiritual progress is very slow. We need the encouragement that comes when we share fellowship with others, remembering that a vine has many fruitful branches, not just one.

In his book Day by Day, Commissioner Robert Street writes: ‘The apostle Paul …

named love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control as fruit (qualities) that grow in us when we welcome God into the centre of our lives’. We might feel that some of these qualities suit our character more than others, but we are not meant to choose which ones we want to embrace.

QUESTION l Which of the qualities listed do you find difficult to see in your character?

The Ancient Greeks used different words for ‘love’, such as philia – brotherly love, authentic friendship – and storge – the love between members of a family. The word used for love as a quality of the fruit of the Spirit is agape. It expresses the deep and constant love of God for

humankind, love that does not depend on any deserving or being worthy of it.

This is the kind of love we will reflect as God’s Spirit makes us fruitful: the unconditional love of God for others.

Joy Webb wrote a song called ‘What is Love?’ and its chorus answers the title’s question: ‘Love is a place where you are always welcome,/ Love is an open hand outstretched to care,/ Love is of God and where his name is honoured/ Love is there.’

Take time to pray that love in all its varied expressions will continue to grow in your life.

LIEUT-COLONEL ROBERTS IS SECRETARY FOR SPIRITUAL LIFE DEVELOPMENT

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Except I am moved with compassion,/ How dwelleth thy Spirit in me?/ In word and in deed/ Burning love is my need;/ I know I can find this in thee.

(SASB 626)

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

(1 Corinthians 13:4–7)

Let us go out into the world with love in our hearts./ Let us go out into the world with love in our hearts./ Love is patient, love is kind/ And leaves selfishness behind;/ Let us go out into the world with love in our hearts.

(SASB 925)

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

(1 John 3:18)

Salvationist 4 September 2021

19

and raise funds for your corps this Christmas

It’s not too early to be thinking about Christmas!

We have created a suite of resources with a handy ‘how to’ guide to help corps with their Christmas activities. This includes ideas for fundraising, the Christmas Present (toy) appeal, media and communications ideas, safe mission guidance as well as support for volunteering and a Christmas Day meal guide.

Please get in touch with us at challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information, to let us know how we can support you – or to share your ideas for corps fundraising at Christmas.

As ever, you can find our Christmas resources on OurHub: sar.my/ukichristmas Or here: salvationarmy.org.uk/resources/community-engagement-resources/ christmas-present-appeal Or for ease just scan the QR code:

Here’s ho-ho-hoping for a great festive fundraising season!

Christmas Appeal 2021

The Salvation Army is a Christian Church and registered Charity No.214779 and in Scotland SC009359; Social Trust Registered Charity No. 215174 and in Scotland SC037691; The Salvation Army Trustee Company, registered number 00259322 (England and Wales).

& ADVERTS

Are you coming to study at Reading University?

The three Reading corps would love to welcome you and support you in any way we can.

Please contact us as follows: Reading Lower Earley Corps Jacqueline and Roger Coates Lower.earley@salvationarmy.org.uk 07776 965781 Reading Central Corps Adrian and Beth Maddern Reading.central@salvationarmy.org.uk 0118 9583019

On 7 and 8 September, the Emergency Services Show will be held at Birmingham NEC and The Salvation Army will have a display there. The show will feature 450 stands and have more than 10,000 visitors.

Reading West Corps Portia Stirling-Mack Reading.west@salvationarmy.org.uk 07823 747954

If you are interested in attending or taking your volunteers, go to emergencyuk.com/why-visit to register for a free ticket.

Your corps

FLAT FOR RENT

Penge Corps, Maple Road, SE20 8JB, has a one-bedroom flat for rent. Flat contains a living room/ kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.

Also included fridge/freezer and washing machine. £800 pcm (utilities not included). Penge East and Penge West train stations are a 10-minute walk from the flat. Bus stop to central London and local shops are a two-minute walk.

Contact penge@salvationarmy.org.uk

STUDYING IN YORK?

Are you coming to study in this great city?

Be sure to link up to the corps, where a warm welcome awaits you.

Meals arranged and Student / Young Adult Fellowship (Covid-19 allowing!)

For further details: Cynthia Smith 07961 586465

could advertise in a box

this size for as little as

£26 for 1 issue or £65 for 3 issues

MGS works professionally providing l

COUNSELLING l THERAPY l MEDIATION

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion.

MGS works with relationships and other life experiences MGS is confidential, experienced and free Contact Major Jorgen Booth and the MGS team Tel 07711 148538 or email mgscounselling@yahoo.com

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Salvationist 4 September 2021

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+ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

TRIBUTES

APPOINTED Effective 19 August l Captain Carol Baker, Farcet Effective 1 September l Major Kelston Stanford, additional appointment, divisional mission enabler, Southern DHQ l Major Sheila Westlake, divisional support officer (pro-tem), Severn and Somerset DHQ Effective 7 October l Major Denise Cooper, divisional mission enabler, Southern DHQ

LIEUT-COLONEL COLIN TUCKER COLIN was born in 1941 to Salvationist parents, the only son between two older and two younger sisters.

He was active in Greenford Corps as a junior soldier, senior soldier, bandsman and corps treasurer.

His calling to serve as an officer led him to enter the International Training College in 1962 as a cadet in the Heroes of the Faith session.

After commissioning in 1964, Colin was appointed to Crowborough and Uckfield.

Colin and Barbara married in 1965 and served at St Leonards-onSea, followed by a number of corps appointments in Scotland. Colin was much respected as a preacher and leader, caring for people and giving careful attention to corps business.

Colin also served as divisional secretary of the South West Scotland and East Scotland Divisions. He later became assistant finance secretary at Scotland Command Headquarters.

Colin and Barbara’s overseas service began in January 1995, when Colin served as finance secretary in the East Africa Territory, later becoming secretary for business administration.

He is remembered there with love and respect for his faithfulness, integrity and love of Jesus.

Returning to the United Kingdom in 2004, Colin served as a corps officer at Clydebank, concluding his active service in 2006.

Opportunity came for service in retirement when Colin was appointed as chaplain at Greenock Corps, again fulfilling his preaching and pastoral ministry.

Many people remember Colin with affection for his gentle kind ways.

He is greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Barbara, daughter, Hazel, son, Russell, and his four grandchildren. – BT

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Emerald (55th) l Majors George and Jennifer Warren (17 September) Golden l Adrian and Marilyn Brand, Gloucester (21 August) l Majors Denise and Robert BarhamHall (11 September) l Majors Robert and Zena Peppiatt (11 September) l Rodney and Sue Le Poidevin, Guernsey (18 September) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations l Major Lesley Jeeves (80 on 13 September) l Major Miriam Dodds (90 on 15 September) l Colonel Edward Cotterill (95 on 17 September) PROMOTED TO GLORY Lieut-Colonel William Main from Bournemouth Macmillan hospice on 20 August l Rtd CCG Jean Logan, Port Glasgow, on 22 August l

BEREAVED l Major Dean Logan, West Scotland DHQ, Lesley Anderson, Greenock, and Thomas Logan of their mother Rtd CCG Jean Logan l Colonel Paul Main, THQ, Andrew Main, Stephen Main and Alison Nock, all Boscombe, of their father Lieut-Colonel William Main

ENGAGEMENTS THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL PAUL MAIN) AND COLONEL JENINE MAIN l Strawberry Field, Thu 9 Sep l Kirkcaldy (opening of new hall), Sat 18 – Sun 19

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Salvationist 4 September 2021

NANCY JONES, WREXHAM NANCY Jones (née Parry) radiated a gentle, Biblebased, discerning spirituality that was a source of inspiration to countless people. Born in Oswestry, she moved to Wrexham early in her marriage to her beloved Wilfred. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary before Wilfred’s promotion to Glory in 2013.

Nancy was a committed Salvationist who held several commissions during her life. Due to her love of young people, she particularly enjoyed being young people’s sergeant-major and then corps cadet guardian.

Nancy and Wilfred had two sons – Alun and Melvyn – and three grandsons. Blessed with a great sense of humour, Nancy had a love of life and a deep faith. Her mind remained sharp and positive, even in her 103rd year. – MJ LIEUT-COLONEL JOHN DANGERFIELD THERE was a man sent from God whose name was John – John Dangerfield. Many people can testify to that truth. His discipleship and officership were the gold standard.

John was a man of contrasts. He could be assertive, anti-establishment, confrontational, a strong leader but always with a deep, practical love for people. He was an exemplary shepherd to those under his care.

Though reserved by nature, he led from the front and by example.

His passion for the gospel is amply illustrated by his red pocket New Testament, which is falling apart because of use. For the same reason, one of his songbooks – containing some verses gently underlined and notes in his tiny, careful handwriting – has disintegrated.

John never stopped learning. When a captain more than 50 years ago, he attended lectures on Islam and at the Westminster Pastoral Foundation.

In retirement, he earned a degree in sociology. Continuing education

was par for his course. The news of salvation had to be applied to the present age.

John was also a gold-digger: he had the spiritual gift of finding gold in those with whom he came into contact, doing all in his power to develop their talents. John dimmed the spotlight on himself so those who worked with him could shine brighter.

Intensely loving towards his wife, Marjory, especially during her long and distressing illness, they shared corps, training college, divisional and national appointments. In all their responsibilities, they always went for gold. – RT DORIS LUSCOMBE, NEWTON ABBOT DORIS was born into a Christian family in 1928 in Torquay.

Encouraged to go to Sunday school, she attended The Salvation Army from an early age. In her late teens she met Harry Luscombe whom she married in 1949.

She worked tirelessly at the corps, holding local officer positions such as singing company sergeant, corps cadet guardian, young people’s sergeant-major and songster leader.

In later years she led the over-60s Sunshine club.

She always took a keen interest in everyone under her care, especially the young people – many of whom still remember her influence on their lives today.

In later years, ill health led Doris to transfer to Newton Abbot, where she continued to serve by playing the drum. Her Christian faith was paramount in all she did for the Kingdom.

She is sadly missed by her family and friends. – NB

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HOLY SPIRITCONGRESS

Drop inside Youth for a Cafe chat today! Table Tennis Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May 2016

MARY DARNES, BOURNE MARY was born and brought up in the village of Kirkby Underwood, north of Bourne, where there was also a young man called Alan Darnes. They eventually married, moved and worshipped at Stamford. When Bourne Corps reopened in September 1990 they transferred there. They raised a son and three daughters of whom they were very proud, together with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mary was a quiet and caring lady full of grace. She attended and helped at most of the weekday activities. She always looked forward to a ‘good Army meeting’ on a Sunday. When Alan died, Mary eventually moved to the centre of Bourne.

In her last few months, after reaching the age of 90, she testified she was ready to meet Alan again along with her Maker. – CG

or email: paul.fowler@salvationarmy.org.uk

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EDEN COURT THEATRE – INVERNESS

Led by General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox

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Chat Crafts Film nights Wii Games

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£1.00 ntr e ance Deer Road, Woodside, Aberdeen. AB24 2BL Snacks & rinks d available

Registered Charity No. 214779 and in Scotland SC009359; Social Trust Registered Charity No. 215174 and in Scotland SC037691 General: André Cox. Territorial Commander for the United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland: Commissioner Clive Adams

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ANSWERS TO GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ (PAGE 24) 1. André Cox 2. a. Bramwell Booth 3. b. Frederick Coutts 4. Linda Bond 5. General Superintendent 6. b. David Lloyd George for Bramwell Booth 7. c. John Larsson (grandson of Commissioner Karl Larsson, OF) 8. Bramwell Booth in 1912 Salvationist 4 September 2021

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9. a. Evangeline Booth 10. a. Bramwell Booth 11. b. Blood and Fire 12. b. Four (Edward Higgins, Albert Orsborn, Wilfred Kitching and Frederick Coutts) 13. George Carpenter 14. c. Five (Clarence Wiseman, Arnold Brown, Bramwell Tillsley, Linda Bond and Brian Peddle)

15. f. Bramwell Booth (1912–1929); c. Edward Higgins (1929 –1934); a. Clarence Wiseman (1974 –1977); b. Jarl Wahlström (1981–1986); d. Eva Burrows (1986–1993); e. Shaw Clifton (2006–2011) 16. a. Albert Orsborn 17. c. … Boy Here 18. a. Albert Orsborn

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ

Test how much you know about Generals of The Salvation Army by Garry D Reed

1

Which General was born in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) to an English father and Swiss mother?

2

Who was the only General, except for the Founder, not elected by a High Council? a. Bramwell Booth b. Edward Higgins c. Evangeline Booth

3

Who was General during the Army’s centenary in 1965? a. Wilfred Kitching b. Frederick Coutts c. Erik Wickberg

4

Name the 19th General.

Clue: Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1946 and territorial commander of the Australia Eastern Territory before becoming General three years later.

5

Before taking the title of General of The Salvation Army what was William Booth’s title in The Christian Mission?

6

Which former prime minister hosted a dinner for the 70th birthday of which General? a. William Ewart Gladstone for William Booth b. David Lloyd George for Bramwell Booth c. James Ramsay MacDonald for Evangeline Booth

00

Salvationist Day Month 2020

7

The grandfather of which General helped pioneer the Army’s work in Russia in 1913? a. Paul Rader b. John Gowans c. John Larsson

8 9

Which General was appointed in the year the Titanic sank?

Which General did Eric Ball describe as ‘intriguing, talented, gracious … and, at heart, lonely’? a. Evangeline Booth b. George Carpenter c. Albert Orsborn

13 14

How many Canadians have been elected General? a. Three b. Four c. Five

15

Put these Generals in chronological order: a. Clarence Wiseman b. Jarl Wahlström c. Edward Higgins d. Eva Burrows e. Shaw Clifton f. Bramwell Booth

10

16

11

17

12

18

Which General wrote ‘Come in, My Lord, Come in’ (SASB 411) in just six minutes while waiting at Aldersgate Street station for a train? a. Bramwell Booth b. Albert Orsborn c. John Gowans

What was the title of Roy Hattersley’s 1999 biography of William and Catherine Booth? a. The Better Fight b. Blood and Fire c. By Love Compelled How many Generals have been appointed CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire)? a. Three b. Four c. Five

Who was the first Australian to be elected General?

Which General’s priorities included the Army becoming a founding member of the World Council of Churches? a. Albert Orsborn b. Wilfred Kitching c. Erik Wickberg Complete the title of John Gowans’ autobiography: There’s a … a. … Word for It b. … Better Way c. … Boy Here Which General wrote ‘Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me’ (SASB 717)? a. Albert Orsborn b. Arnold Brown c. Jarl Wahlström

l Answers on page 23