Salvationist 10 August 2019

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www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 10 August 2019

Age is no barrier Flourishing in later life

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QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

POLL SUGGESTS CLIMATE CHANGE IS MORE IMPORTANT TO CHRISTIANS THAN BREXIT IN LONG TERM A poll commissioned by Christian Aid has revealed UK Christians’ opinions on Brexit and climate change.

Seventy-three per cent of Christians polled said they think climate change will be more important than leaving the European Union in the long-term and sixty-five per cent said they don’t think the government is doing enough to prioritise climate change.

Among all those polled, seventy-one per cent considered climate change more pressing than Brexit long-term and just over half said they cared more about climate change than Brexit.

ComRes interviewed 2,072 UK adults online… who were representative of all UK adults by age, gender, region and social grade.

trends continue, it could take 560 years to close the disadvantage gap.

It also found that disadvantage gaps are larger and growing in parts of the north of England. In Rotherham and Blackpool, poorer pupils are trailing their peers by more than two years at GCSE. Meanwhile, black Caribbean pupils have fallen further behind white British pupils by the end of GCSEs (an additional 2.2 months since 2011), the research shows.

More than 4 million people in the UK are trapped in deep poverty, meaning their income is at least 50 per cent below the official breadline, locking them into a weekly struggle to afford the most basic living essentials, an independent study has shown.

The Social Metrics Commission also said 7 million people, including 2.3 million children, were affected by what it termed persistent poverty, meaning that they were not only in poverty but had been for at least two of the previous three years.

Highlighting evidence of rising levels of hardship in recent years among children, larger families, lone parent households and pensioners, the commission urged the new prime minister, Boris Johnson, to take urgent action to tackle growing poverty.

The commission’s chair, Philippa Stroud… said there was a pressing need for a concerted approach to the problem. ‘It is time to look again at our approach to children, and to invest in our children as the future of our nation,’ she said.

The Independent

The Guardian

Premier

HOMELESS BILL OF RIGHTS TAKES STEP CLOSER IN BRIGHTON Brighton and Hove may become the first city in the country to adopt the Homeless Bill of Rights.

The bill was devised by the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless – known as Feantsa – in November 2017.

It has been adopted by seven European cities, including Barcelona, and will be considered by Brighton and Hove city council’s Housing and New Homes Committee in September.

The bill sets out people’s rights to housing, shelter, use of public space, equal treatment, sanitation, a postal address, privacy and the right to vote.

The Argus

POORER STUDENTS ‘18 MONTHS BEHIND’ CLASSMATES AS PROGRESS IN CLOSING GCSE ATTAINMENT GAP STALLS Progress in closing the GCSE attainment gap between poorer pupils and their peers has come to a standstill for the first time since 2011 – and there is a risk of going backwards, a report warns.

Disadvantaged students in England are 18 months behind their wealthier classmates in English and maths when they finish their GCSEs, according to the think tank Education Policy Institute.

The attainment gap has widened slightly from 2017 – and if the current five-year

SALVATIONIST (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – (tel) 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – (tel) 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – (tel) 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – (tel) 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – (tel) 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 10 August 2019

MORE THAN 4M IN UK ARE TRAPPED IN DEEP POVERTY, STUDY FINDS

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ISSN 2516-5909

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant

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CONTENTS

LIVING LONGER, LIVING WELL

Quotes from the media

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A NUMBER of years ago I was out running and was overtaken by an older runner. It happens sometimes. As he passed me I noticed the slogan on the back of his T-shirt: ‘The older I get, the faster I was.’ It was a reminder that with age comes change. Sometimes change can be for the worse but that’s not always the case. In fact our later years can give us a new lease of life.

The possibility of living well in later life seems to be growing. For some people this involves working beyond retirement age. In 1992 there were 478,000 people over the age of 65 working in the UK, which was 5.5 per cent of the age group.

Now there are just under 1.2 million of that age group in work, which is 10.2 per cent. This includes more than 53,000 over-80s, of which 25 per cent are in fulltime jobs. As well as the benefit of extra income, research shows that working beyond retirement age helps people maintain their physical and mental health.

Work isn’t the only thing that does that. In the interview on pages 12 and 13 Ian Richards talks about his life as a race walker, which saw him compete for Britain in the 1980 Olympics and keeps him fit today at the age of 71. He’s even broken some Masters world records. Ian is a great believer in the health benefits of sport and in recent years he’s been able to share his insights with many other older people.

Ron Thomlinson is also in a sporting mood, reflecting on his experiences at the gym on page 15. He says that many people fail to take advantage of gym membership because they feel awkward when there are so many super-fit people around. That’s a bit like ‘saints, sinners and the matter of salvation’, he suggests.

Sport – this time rugby – also features on page 9 in the latest excerpt from Major Peter Mylechreest’s book, Light Bites. He has encouragement for older people who might feel they can’t contribute much. They ‘are mistaken if they think only the young and fit can serve God’, he says, and gives examples of how older and younger people can support each other.

On pages 10 and 11 Andy Wileman points out that people can flourish in later life and have much to offer. Rather than being seen as ‘a problem to be endured’ they should be ‘enabled to be all that God intended them to be’.

Andy also considers how flourishing in later life can be difficult where inequalities exist. He regards this as a major social justice issue. An example of this is seen in the news on page 6. It highlights a Salvation Army report that reveals the inequality in adult social care between rural and urban areas in England. The problem is that funding relies on local authority taxation, which varies from area to area, so the report calls on the government to reduce the disparities through a national funding mechanism.

It is unusual for an issue of Salvationist to focus so much on a particular age group but older people do form a significant proportion of our readership. If you’re younger don’t be put off: there’s plenty to interest you as well!

Viewpoint 10 and 11 Later life in all its fullness

News

4 to 9

Light Bites

9

by Major Peter Mylechreest

by Andy Wileman

Interview 12 and 13 Keeping on track with God Ian Richards talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Feature 14 Researching wholeness and healing

by Major Emma Knights

Reflection Shaping up for summer?

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by Ron Thomlinson

Bible study Taste and see!

16 and 17

by Lieutenant Ian Hammond

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

New commitments

18 and 19

Announcements

20 and 21

Adverts

21 to 23

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring David Peacock Front page picture: ALEX ROTAS

From the Editor, Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

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NEWS

The Salvation Army joins churches raising concerns about no-deal Brexit impact UNITED KINGDOM

Matthew Donaldson raises £435 for community building works at Penrith Corps in a sponsored bike ride; also pictured are Dave Martin, who guided and supported Matthew, and Community Support Worker Heather Watson

THE Salvation Army has joined with six other Christian denominations to write to the prime minister, Boris Johnson, to express concern that a no-deal Brexit will ‘hit those held back by poverty very hard indeed’.

The letter, signed by 11 church leaders, including Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, highlights the work of the churches across the country with people in need, through food banks, homelessness services, employment advice and debt counselling.

The letter does not focus on the decision to leave the EU, which continues to be debated with deeply held and sincere views on either side, but highlights the impact of a no-deal Brexit upon the most vulnerable people in UK society. It states: ‘The impacts of a no-deal Brexit are at best highly uncertain, and at worst deeply worrying.

Our view that it would put at risk the welfare and safety of the poorest communities in the UK is formed on the basis of the best available evidence, including our presence in local communities in every part of the UK.’ The TC’s decision to sign the letter was made in response to concerns raised by corps leaders about the rise in poverty and increased demands for practical assistance, as well as by a review of academic evidence. Three issues were of particular concern: a rise in food poverty, higher levels of household debt and a rise in homelessness.

The letter calls on the government to ‘demonstrate that the most vulnerable in our communities, those locked in poverty, will not be harmed’ and concludes by assuring the prime minister of the church leaders’ prayers as he takes up his ‘challenging new role’. – A. R. O The full letter is available at salvationarmy.org.uk/news-centre

DUNSTABLE: Matthew and Victoria Stone (Reading Central) led YP celebrations. The morning meeting took the form of a pyjama party and included the prizegiving for children from Sunday school and Messy Church. Making reference to the film Monsters, Inc., Matthew spoke on the lessons that can be learnt from the story of God calling Samuel in the night (1 Samuel 3). Matthew and Victoria are pictured with corps officers Majors Lindsay and Stephen Brevitt. – J. B.

BUCKHAVEN: More than 25 children and their families attended the holiday club, which took the form of Messy Church every day for a week. They explored Genesis and took part in activities, including a welcome song, knitting, baking and games. To conclude the week, Major Carol Young (DHQ) encouraged and challenged everyone to consider what it means to play their part in God’s story. Community Support Worker Kathryn Howe was also commissioned as a divisional envoy. – A. H. 4

Salvationist 10 August 2019

CRADLEY HEAT H: The 138th corps anniversary was celebrated with the visit of Morriston Songsters. During the Saturday festival corps folk were challenged to bring themselves wholeheartedly to the cross. Majors Neville and Yvonne Andrews (Morriston) and the visiting songsters led Sunday meetings. – D. S.

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EE staff volunteer at Southwick Community Project SUNDERLAND AROUND seventeen employees from mobile network operator EE volunteered at Southwick Community Project.

The group helped to sort produce within the food bank, put together food parcels, CIRENCESTER: Corps members and friends spent a day at the Harnhill Centre of Christian Healing under the leadership of Majors Malcolm and Sylvia Walters. They considered themes on ‘Power to Heal’, ‘Power to Speak’, ‘Power to Serve’ and ‘Power to Teach’.

Regional Children’s Ministries Specialist Richard Prescott and Judith Billingham also arranged a variety of YP activities. – M. G.

assisted with quiz items for the Cameo group, served food to groups on site and helped take people home who had come to the centre via a minibus.

The team from EE also donated some tinned goods to the food bank.

Project Manager Graham Wharton thanked them for all they had done and reminded them that they had made a difference. – G. W.

LEEK: Birmingham Citadel Band joined corps folk and nearby churches on the annual walk of witness around the town centre, which has been a tradition for more than 200 years. The march was followed by a buffet, where the two corps joined in fellowship before the visiting band brought a festival of music, which included solos by David Taylor, Andrew Dickinson and Dep BM Mark Sharman. – R. J.

Anglia Fellowship Band presents an open-air concert at the care home where one of its members, Maurice Page, now lives; many residents enjoyed the music

Ipswich Citadel corps officer Major Loes Palmer and YPSM Suzanne Cook present the young people with prizes at the YP annual

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NEWS

Rural communities worst hit in adult social care crisis ENGLAND THERE is significantly less money to care for older people living in rural areas across England, according to Care In Places, a new report by The Salvation Army.

Adult social care is largely funded by local business rates, council tax and other local charges, but this means that some areas cannot raise as much money as others.

Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant said: ‘Rural local authorities have been set up to fail with this flawed formula. People are living longer and the population is ageing. The adult social care bill is rising but the local authority funding streams aren’t enough to cover the demand.

The report refers to current discussions about the future funding of adult social care and asks the government to consider how ‘national resource is allocated to local areas’ to create ‘a system that achieves a closer match between resources available and local need.’

The report shows: Some areas can raise five times more revenue than others.

O Funding streams for areas with lower populations are so depleted that they cannot raise sufficient funds.

O While rural areas are the worst hit, the funding disparity does affect urban areas too, especially those that have been hit by years of economic decline.

O The Salvation Army’s care homes top up what it costs the local authority to run a care home. In several areas what the local authority can provide does not even cover the staffing costs.

This last point is illustrated by the situation of Dilys Fox, who is 100 years old and has lived in two different Salvation Army care homes. The council continues to pay towards Dilys’s care but the Army substantially subsidises her placement, making up a shortfall of almost two-thirds.

‘I’m very happy at Villa Adastra,’ says Dilys. ‘I don’t have any property or savings so the local authority pays for my care, but The Salvation Army makes up the difference in cost.

‘I honestly don’t know what would happen if The Salvation Army wasn’t able to top up [the difference]. I just can’t think about it really.’ – A. R. O

SOUTH WOODHAM FERRERS: The home league celebrated 30 years of The Salvation Army in the community. The Army has had an active presence and high profile in the town ever since it was pioneered from Wickford in 1989. The number of people who attended the anniversary showed their appreciation for three decades of continuous involvement in the area. HLS Mary Parker led the meeting, which included readings, prayers and music from members past and present. God was praised for his goodness, and faith was expressed for the future. – O. A. 6

Salvationist 10 August 2019

Carlisle corps officer Captain Mel Scoulding presents Majors Les and Eileen Cook with a letter of recognition from Divisional Commander Major Roger Batt for leading the over-60 club for the past ten years

SLOUGH: Boys from the kids club took part in the inaugural corps 5km fun run in Burnham Beeches National Nature Reserve to raise funds for going to summer camp. Divisional Youth Specialist David Perkins and Divisional Relationship Manager Ann Bushnell ran alongside them, and a few members of the corps walked the route.

A picnic was also held to support those taking part. – A. B.

Chesterfield corps officer Captain Elizabeth Di-Palma presents Major Les Taylor with a letter and certificate of appreciation for 60 years’ service as a bandsman

Harlesden learners band lead worship and witness in Roundwood Park; several good conversations were had with listeners and Army papers and corps leaflets were distributed

Home league members from various corps in the southeast of England share in a time of praise, worship, teaching and refreshment at the regional African home league meeting, held at Welwyn Garden City Corps

Britney, Shadrack and Owen receive their bronze and silver junior soldier awards from corps officer Major Kim Gotobed at Newcastle City Temple’s YP anniversary

Dunstable CSM David Everton retires after giving five years of valued support to past and present corps officers; David has served in various local officer positions since the age of 17 and the corps thanked God for his long and faithful service

CARDIFF CANTON: ‘Come and be inspired’ was the invitation to all those who attended the corps flower festival, themed Inspirations.

Many people came to enjoy the displays put together by corps members, who drew their own inspirations from the Bible, poetry, people, music and more. An exhibition depicted the story of the Creation and visitors were able to pray and reflect at prayer stations. Those who came were inspired and blessed. – C. K. Salvationist 10 August 2019

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NEWS

Something for everyone at joyful Fiesta weekend DEVON AND CORNWALL THE first work of transformation at the division’s Fiesta weekend began on Thursday morning as a large cattle-shed exhibition hall at the Royal Cornwall Showground near Wadebridge was turned into a place of worship.

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham led the weekend, which was open to everyone and brought people of all ages together to encounter God through worship, prayer, creative arts, sport, music and fellowship.

Fiesta commenced on Friday evening with an open-air prayer meeting overlooking the beautiful Cornish countryside.

The Chief of the Staff prayed passionately: ‘Empower us to be your people, Lord, for the world desperately needs your people.’

The visiting leaders felt at home sharing in fellowship with people throughout the weekend. Commissioner Bronwyn said that the conversations she had shared with many people were a highlight of Fiesta. The Chief said he 8

Salvationist 10 August 2019

was excited to hear people’s passion to be effective and creative in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, reimagining mission and furthering the Kingdom of God in their communities.

There was much in the weekend to equip people for creative mission, such as reaching out to older people through singing.

There were also opportunities for engaging with art and dance in worship, prayer walking, Messy Church, sports ministry and a Stomp-inspired seminar featuring dance and percussion using everyday items.

As people gathered for teaching it was evident that the Holy Spirit was present in the exuberance of worship, in the quiet moments of prayer and reflection, in the joy of the young people, in testimony and in the powerful teaching of the commissioners, which challenged the congregation in their Christian living.

During Sunday morning worship, after Commissioner Bronwyn’s call to choose to love authentically, many people moved to the front of the arena to pray, showing their willingness to go deeper in their relationships with God. There was a deep sense that God was in this place, and that the Chief of the Staff ’s prayer that God would ‘empower us to be your people’ was being answered. – P. S.

READING CENTRAL: Minister of State for Employment and Reading West MP Alok Sharma visited the Employment Plus service at the corps. The service helps people update their CVs, apply for jobs and training, access courses to improve their confidence and budgeting skills, and prepare for interviews. There is also a chaplaincy service. Pictured with the minister are a Department of Work and Pensions representative, Director of Employment Services Rebecca Keating (THQ), corps officer Major Richard Welch and corps Community Development Manager Matthew Stone. – R. W.

Droitwich Spa luncheon club receive a Friendly and Welcoming Place award from Age UK in recognition of their dedication and hard work in supporting members of the community; they are pictured with Age UK community worker Emma Sharp

CWMBRAN: The songsters and bands from Cwmbran, Newport Citadel and Risca joined to lead a meeting at the corps. Corps officer Major Stuart Ashman welcomed everyone with ‘Who Is On The Lord’s Side?’ and Major Stephen Wilson (DHQ) spoke about not being restricted in a box but being free and courageous in God. Items presented by the songsters and band were followed by refreshments and fellowship. – S. A.

Regent Hall Songsters lead songster weekend at Risca; the weekend included a concert, Sunday morning worship and open-air witness at a nearby supermarket

LIGHT BITES

CHEERING US ON In an excerpt from his book Light Bites Major Peter Mylechreest highlights the importance of prayerful encouragement

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HE Junior Colts school rugby team was drawn against another school whose players seemed about two years older and certainly taller and wider! The Junior Colts were somewhat disheartened when their opponents scored three tries within the first quarter of an hour. Their trainer gave them a hard time, calling them all sorts of names.

But then quite unexpectedly the school headmaster turned up and shouted encouragement from the sidelines. He didn’t chide them for losing but continued to support and encourage. The Junior Colts rallied and even managed to score a few tries. It is amazing how different life can be if someone gives encouragement.

With increasing age and poor health many Christians feel that there is no longer opportunity for them to be actively involved in their church. But they are mistaken if they think only the young and fit can serve God. There is a marvellous ministry of prayer and encouragement open to all. Just as God is worshipped in spirit and in truth, so God can also be served in spirit and truth. Striding out in prayer and giving an encouraging comment can accomplish much alongside those rushing around ‘doing things’.

The writer of the letter to the Hebrews gives thumbnail sketches of various people in the past who combined faith and deeds and says that these ‘veterans’ are cheering us on.

In Colossians, Paul reminds the church of Epaphras’s work: ‘Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured’ (Colossians 4:12).

If we are younger, our faith, energy and enthusiasm may encourage those

who are older. If we are more mature, then our prayers, interest and words of support may encourage those younger.

But whatever age we are, we can decide to be someone who both prays for and cheers on other Christians in their work for the Master.

MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS CHAPLAIN, THQ The book Light Bites: Spiritual Food In Small Portions is available from SP&S priced £4.99 (plus postage and packing). Look out for another volume, which is to be published in the autumn: Second Helpings

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VIEW POINT

Later life in all its fullness Andy Wileman challenges the stereotypes surrounding older people and highlights their potential

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N 1917 King George V sent the first ever birthday telegram to a centenarian. It was written by hand and delivered by bicycle from Buckingham Palace. Queen Elizabeth ll now sends cards to thousands of centenarians each year and has a full-time team of seven to administer them.

The global demographic shift towards older people is in full force. In 2020, for the first time, the world will see more people over the age of 65 than those under 5.

This slowly changing ratio will require us to review how we carry out our mission. Like almost all churches in the UK, the majority of Salvation Army corps have their largest cohort of members and congregations in the age bracket of 65-plus.

However, what it means to be 65 is changing. In the 1950s a 65-year-old woman in England and Wales could expect, on average, to live to 79. Today, the Office for National Statistics says that an average 65-year-old woman can look forward to a further 23 years, living to a possible 88. In fact, if current trends continue, some of us could spend more than a quarter of our lives retired.

Advertising feeds off the idea that we are in a constant battle against ageing.

Broadcasters, the arts and even corps and churches spend many hours worrying about how to reach more youthful audiences despite the fact that older people have more time and money 10

Salvationist 10 August 2019

and are growing in numbers, especially the ‘young old’.

The Salvation Army Older People’s Ministries team is working across the UK to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices we have about the ‘old’. Too many corps tell us, ‘Sorry, there is not a lot we can do. We are just a corps of older people.’ They continue to persist with the view that youth, programme and energy are preferable to wisdom and maturity.

If we are so negative and anti ‘old’ as a society, and even as a church, did God make a mistake when he designed old age? I offer a resounding ‘No!’ to that idea. Our later years are here for a purpose. They enable us to mature and become emotionally and spiritually ripe.

Ripe fruit yields more juice, contains more nutrients and is usually sweeter.

The Amplified Bible says that people in later years ‘will still thrive and bear fruit and prosper in old age; they will flourish and be vital and fresh’ (Psalm 92:14).

Let’s be real, though. Lots of older people do not achieve the ‘ageing well’ utopia that I outline. Approaching older age can trigger fears that we will become isolated, suffer from ill health and lose our identity and purpose. As our communities live longer, those in later life who are poorer, less educated and in substandard housing are becoming ‘old old’ earlier than those who are richer, more educated and better housed. A University of Manchester research project in 2017 found that the ‘inequalities gap’ is widening between the educated, richer old and the poorer old.

I would argue that inequality is not just

facing older people and is one of the most important local mission and social justice issues of our time. The very DNA of The Salvation Army and the ministry of the gospel are intertwined in our response to this.

May I propose that making the most of later years becomes a key objective for us personally and should be intentionally reflected in the mission planning of corps across the territory?

We need to grasp the new reality that many of our existing over-60 clubs and Cameo programmes are no longer the only effective or relevant descriptor or model for those in later years.

We need to stop lumping everyone together from the age of 65 to 105. We have extremely capable and vibrant corps members who are in their seventies and eighties. In fact, many of our corps programmes are happening because of a volunteer base of people in these age groups performing a wonderful service. In addition, our ministry to the very old and those who are housebound or in the care system is a valuable and precious ministry in itself.

The extension of our ‘younger old’ means that many corps are providing walking clubs or intergenerational activities bringing young and old intentionally together, such as community choirs, health and wellbeing programmes, discipleship schemes, hobby-based clubs, holiday at home schemes or Men’s Sheds groups. These are all examples of the diverse and

Andy (centre) with the regional older people’s ministries specialists

vibrant ministries that can involve those in later years.

I believe we should challenge the view that just sees the deficits of older people in our congregations and not their characters. If we look with missional eyes and see that older people are equipped on purpose by God for service in our corps, then we see them as equals and not as a ‘problem’ to be endured; they are enabled to be all that God intended them to be.

Psalm 78 says that one generation will tell the next about the things that God has done. Our corps members living in later years have reservoirs of

experience to share. Let’s stop apologising for being an ‘older Army’.

Let’s not assume that an older corps is a failing corps.

In our mission and calling in our corps settings, let us challenge expectations and see later life ‘in all its fullness’ (John 10:10 Good News Bible) as God’s plan to do even more.

ANDY IS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (OLDER PEOPLE’S MINISTRIES), THQ Salvationist 10 August 2019

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INTERVIEW

Ian breaks the 3,000m indoor race walk world record for men aged 70 to 74

KEEPING ON TRACK WITH GOD Ian Richards talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts about race walking, his faith and his passion for sport 12

Salvationist 10 August 2019

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OLIDAYMAKERS strolling along Worthing seafront this summer may find themselves being overtaken by 71-year-old Salvationist Ian Richards.

‘I train out there every day,’ says Ian, who race walked for Great Britain in the 1980 Olympics and recently broke the world indoor record for the 3,000m race walk in the men’s 70 to 74-year-old age group.

Ian admits to being ‘absolutely rubbish at sport at school’ and only discovered his race walking ability once he’d begun work. ‘There was this annual seven-mile walking race around the City of London,’ he recalls. ‘My friends at work said they always did it because it was a good laugh. “OK, fine,” I said. “That’s not difficult.”

‘There were about three hundred people taking part, including a lot of the

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I remember seeing that the guards were playing Frisbee with a bunch of Aussies. That’s the power of sport: it breaks barriers

Picture: ALEX ROTAS

country’s top walkers who worked in finance. I hadn’t done any training, but I finished around sixtieth. I did it for three years and somebody said: “Have you ever thought of joining a race walking club? You’ve obviously got a little bit of talent.”’

There were two Olympic gold medallists and other international race walkers in the club Ian joined. He benefited from their advice and eventually joined the British team, before being selected for the 1980 Olympics in Moscow.

Soviet troops had just entered Afghanistan and more than 60 countries boycotted the Games, but the British government allowed sports associations to choose whether to go and for individuals within those sports to make their own decision. Ian went, took part in the 50km race walk and finished in 11th place.

One small incident stuck in his mind: ‘I was woken up one night. There was a bit of a commotion going on outside the room. I remember looking out and seeing that the guards had laid their rifles down and were playing Frisbee with a bunch of Aussies. That’s the power of sport: it breaks barriers.’

Ian also represented Britain in both the World and the European Athletics Championships before retiring from race walking in 1982. ‘I decided it was time to devote more time to family and other activities,’ he says.

He later linked up with The Salvation Army at Maidenhead and made a commitment to Christ. ‘My son and daughter were attending the Sunday school and playing in the YP band. I’d been to a Methodist Sunday school so I encouraged them to go, but me getting involved was not even on the agenda. I didn’t disbelieve; I just had no need for God in my life.

‘Then my wife’s father died, and the following Christmas she said she’d like to go to a church service, so we went to the Army. We enjoyed it and went back the next week and the next.

‘I started to look at people there and they had something that I didn’t have. I had a perfect family, was happily

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married, my career was going well and I’d represented my country, but they had an inner happiness that had escaped me. I came to recognise that it was Jesus. One Sunday morning, during the singing of “Lord, With My All I Part”, I responded to the mercy seat invitation.’

Ian had been a cub scout leader for many years, so naturally became involved with the youth club at the corps and was made YPSM. Two years after joining the Army tragedy struck when Ian’s wife, Elaine, suffered a brain haemorrhage and was promoted to Glory soon afterwards. Ian is grateful to God for the support the corps gave to him and his school-aged children: ‘I was surrounded by people who cared and I could see what God had done for me. I felt confident that my world was not falling apart. My faith grew and I got more passionate about it.’

When he later married Barbara and moved to Worthing, Ian was again involved in children’s and youth work and was invited to help at divisional junior soldier camps. This led to his involvement in the territorial In Touch sports weeks, which included a variety of sporting activities. ‘It was a fantastic experience, particularly taking it out to underprivileged kids,’ he reflects. ‘I always shared my story.’

It was this involvement that eventually led Ian back into race walking and to the World Masters Championships, which are for veteran athletes.

‘I was coming up to 60,’ he says, ‘and I wondered if the kids were listening to me any longer – this old bloke who was

Ian (centre) in the 1980 Olympic Games

in the Olympics 30 odd years before. I needed to refresh my story.

‘There’s a club called the centurions for people who have race walked 100 miles in under 24 hours, so I did that in 2008. That restarted my race walking and I really enjoyed it. Then somebody mentioned the Masters internationals and said I’d be welcome in the British team. So I raced in the 2010 European Championships in Hungary and won! I didn’t expect to. I got the bug again and I was back into it in a big way.’

Ian has now won eight World Masters Championships races and taken six world records. He has also been involved with the Olympics again, as part of the Army’s 2012 London Olympics task force and as chair of the Paralympics Committee in the interdenominational initiative More Than Gold, which developed a charter for churches to sign up to as being disability friendly.

These days Ian is keen on promoting sports ministry and would like to see more corps involved in it. He also champions the health benefits of sport, with a special interest in the benefits for older people.

‘When I was getting back into race walking in my sixties I started to get requests to go and give talks at Rotary clubs and places like that. People would ask what I was doing that kept me so fit.

I began to see a new angle: sharing some of the things people are doing in the sports world that could help other people be more active.

‘I’ve been to a lot of home leagues and over-60 clubs. I’ve spoken at the pre-retirement course for officers and at divisional events, giving a half-hour talk about managing the ageing process.

That seems to be the way God has been leading me.’

Looking back on his life in sport and the Army, Ian can see God’s hand at work. But he’s also looking to the future.

‘It’s been an exciting journey,’ he says, ‘and God has put me on a path that gets more exciting as we go.’

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FEATURE My dissertation explained

Researching wholeness and healing In this monthly series SISTAD* students tell us about their degree dissertations. Major Emma Knights’ dissertation for her MA in Pastoral Theology was called, ‘Wholeness and healing: a study of Salvation Army history and practice’

I

HAVE been interested in the concept of healing for many years. In my first corps appointment Churches Together held an ecumenical healing service at The Salvation Army. That piqued my interest in the subject and, when looking for something to research, the topic of wholeness and healing was at the top of my list.

To my knowledge, little research has been undertaken within The Salvation Army on the subject of wholeness and healing.

They are not, however, new topics for the Army. The tenth of our eleven Articles of Faith, which William Booth confirmed in the Foundation Deed of 1878, states: ‘We believe that it is the privilege of all believers to be wholly sanctified, and that their whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ The latest edition of the Handbook Of Doctrine gives a recent interpretation of this doctrine, saying: ‘The God who sanctifies is the healing God who makes us whole,’ and refers to Psalm 30:2 and 103:3 as examples of God healing.

I spent a lot of time researching the War Cry and The Officer magazine, which included an interest in physical healing that I found fascinating. (The International Heritage Centre at William Booth College holds copies of all the War Cry issues, which make for interesting reading.) In the War Cry between 1882 and 1884 there are 11 detailed accounts of healing, including the healing of people attending Salvation Army meetings and the healing of officers. In February 1883 the War Cry carried a report of healing, by faith, of a case of consumption at Liverpool 3 Corps. The report gave the man’s name and address so that readers could see him if they wanted to verify the truth of the account.

It is clear that healing was being publicised. A few months later there was an eyewitness account from Major Dowdle of Captain Rapkin being healed on 1 May 1883. Dowdle states: ‘My wife [and I] were witnesses to the foregoing marvellous 14

Salvationist 10 August 2019

cure of my aide-de-camp Captain Rapkin’s eyesight.’

Along with unearthing the written records, I asked a small sample of officers to fill in a questionnaire to gather data. It showed that although wholeness and healing were deemed to be important to the work and ministry of The Salvation Army, the area is often left to expressions of ministry such as community services, one-to-one pastoral situations, Homelessness Services and Older People’s Services.

Any study of healing and wholeness is faced with the issue of why some people are healed and others are not. In my view there is no final answer to this question, but it may be seen to depend partly on the individual’s understanding of healing.

Praying for healing and wholeness does not necessarily mean that a miraculous cure will be evident, although, in some instances, this may well be the case. But at some level, through prayer, a healing can take place that might enable the person to journey towards the wholeness that Christ intended.

Sometimes, death can also be seen as a welcome healing from the pain a person has experienced on Earth. The concept is one that can be difficult to understand and talk about, but it does need to be acknowledged.

In the Salvationist published on 4 November 2006 Captain Dean Pallant wrote: ‘Over the years many Salvationists have steered clear of sermons about physical healing. Few corps hold healing meetings and most of us don’t find it easy to talk about God’s healing power. Have we missed some of God’s blessings because we have been too afraid to ask?’

This is an important question, and one that needs careful consideration. In a section called ‘Wholeness, Health And Healing’ the Army’s Handbook Of Doctrine says that God’s people should be ‘a healing community engaged in a healing mission in anticipation of the final healing to be experienced in the New Jerusalem’. I would suggest that more teaching and training about wholeness and healing are needed for all Salvationists. *SISTAD is the territory’s School for In-Service Training and Development, which provides courses for officers and employees, plus open learning courses e ffor everyone; visit salvationarmy.org. uk/SISTAD for details u MAJOR KNIGHTS IS LEARNING M AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, THQ A

REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON REFLECTION

Shaping up for summer?

Ron Thomlinson encourages everyone to join God’s gym

Ron and his dad

D

UE to deferred maintenance, it has taken me longer than usual to get my sculptured torso back to its normal pristine state for the holidays. The Goliath-sized motivational quote at the gym hasn’t helped much: ‘The body achieves what the mind believes.’ Whoever wrote that has never been 74 or swallowed a statin and does not have three stents or fallen arches.

I would rather have words from Psalm 71 on the wall: ‘Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength is spent’ (v9 New Revised Standard Version).

A lifesize poster of a personal trainer offers to create a perfect body for me in 90 days for £2,300. Just so I can wear my swimming trunks without embarrassment? On your bike!

Surprisingly, the most important writing on the wall is an extremely tiny notice, illegible to us older athletes whose eyes are growing dim. It advertises a course on how to help people decide to become fit and stay that way.

A recent study showed that Brits waste more than £4 billion a year on unused gym membership fees. Feeling intimidated by their own body shape, becoming bored with the experience and being ignorant of the equipment are among the contributing factors. We just don’t seem able to keep on keeping on.

The result is we defer the necessary body maintenance, even though we know it is vital. The Adonises among us have no reservation about training at the gym. Why should they? They have

nothing to feel awkward about. But those of us who need to exercise for our own health’s sake are often too embarrassed to even start taking the cure.

It’s a bit like saints, sinners and the matter of salvation. There are the spiritual haves and spiritual have-nots.

The have-nots may be too frightened or ashamed to show their faces when it comes to salvation, so they don’t join in.

As Jesus says, even what little they have will be taken away from them.

Meanwhile, some of the spiritual haves, just as in Jesus’ day, run the risk of appearing to show off.

But I dare not take the high moral ground in these issues. I don’t always get my money’s worth out of my gym subscription either. I have a thousand and one reasonable excuses why not.

The trainer has heard all my porkies* before and knows the only one I am kidding is myself.

Thinking about my failure to keep on keeping on, the line from a famous Isaac Watts hymn came to mind: ‘All the vain things that charm me most’ (SASB

208). They are the things that not only stop me going to the gym but also stop me making progress on my pilgrimage.

The enlightening fact about this lyric is that the things that charm me most do not necessarily charm anyone else.

These ‘charms’, whatever they may be, highlight what matters more to me than what is essential. They need to be sacrificed for the greater good.

The problem with the gym is that we feel we have to look good before we even start. They might as well put a big notice on the door: ‘No entry for misshapes.’ Some of us whose bodies absolutely confirm the law of gravity are non-starters in this school of sports. It’s the same as saying, ‘I only love you when you are good.’

Thank God that this is not how he meant it to be. Richard Rohr, a Franciscan friar, wrote: ‘Most of us were taught that God would love us if and when we change. In fact, God loves you so you can change.’

That’s why, whether we are a spiritual have or a have-not, we need to join God’s gym and keep on doing the exercises. We will change after we have joined and not before, whatever charms hold us back.

Of course my torso is not perfect. I hate sunbathing. I cannot stand bodybuilding poseurs. In fact, I take after my dad: a pair of rolled-up trouser legs to just below the knee and a quick paddle on Blackpool Sands does it for me every time. Happy feet and happy holidays. *As we have an international readership, some readers may want to know that ‘porkies’ derives from ‘pork pies’ and is a popular word in cockney rhyming slang for ‘lies’. It is in common usage.

RON LIVES IN THE NETHERLANDS

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BIBLE STUDY

Taste and see!

Lieutenant Ian Hammond encourages us to put faith into action

STUDY PASSAGE: PSALM 34

H

OW are things for you at the minute? For many, there will be something bothering them. For some, this will be a small niggle; for others, it could be something big that might even feel overwhelming.

In 1 Samuel 21, we read that David, chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel to be king, is greatly troubled and running for his life from King Saul. This is the setting for Psalm 34.

QUESTION O What is your first reaction when you are scared or face trouble?

In Psalm 34 David praises God and promises to continue praising him always. This isn’t because he has been saved – in reality, it will be another eight

Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day

by Major Howard Webber

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Salvationist 10 August 2019

years, four spent running and four spent in a foreign land, before Saul dies and the threat ceases. How, then, can David praise God in these circumstances? And what does that mean for us?

David says: ‘I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears’ (v4). Even in troubled times, David confidently believes that God loves and hears him and will answer and save him.

QUESTION How do we measure up to David’s faith?

O

I don’t go to God quickly enough nor subsequently act in faith as much as I should. David reminds us to, ‘Taste and see that the Lord is good’ (v8). He knows God will always be there for him because he has tasted God’s love and provision and has seen God in action.

David shows us that faith is grown through experience – not through thought but actual testing in real life.

You can’t taste food without putting it in your mouth. David tells us that to grow in faith and in our relationship with God we actually need to do something. The relationship God wants with us is personal and real, not distant and theoretical. We can’t rely on developing faith intellectually; we need to put some of his love in our mouths, make it part of our lives and see what it does.

As much as I love spending time reading the Bible and books, the times I really learn about and see God in action are when I am out living life. I experience him there and see him at work. Why, then, do we often not look for those moments? Instead, we try to struggle on in our own strength. Even when something does happen, we write it off as coincidence.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

(Psalm 34:8)

O that the world would taste and see/ The riches of his grace;/ The arms of love that compass me/ Would all mankind embrace.

(SASB 84)

Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

(1 Peter 2:1–3)

QUESTION O How good are we at actually tasting God’s provision, putting it to the test and then noticing what he does?

David also reminds us of another great truth: ‘Blessed is the one who takes refuge in him’ (v8), because ‘no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned’ (v22).

The message is clear: when in trouble, go to God. He should always be our first response and in him we will be safe.

The verses form a parenthesis around a number of proverb-like sayings that emphasise why this is true, and the life we should lead in response to God’s love.

Now, focus on verses 8 to 22, taking time to reflect after each phrase.

Then, reread the parts that resonate with you.

QUESTIONS Which bits stand out?

O What is God saying to you through them?

O

David shares some important lessons for life: honour God, be honest, do good and seek peace (see vv8–14). He also assures us that God responds to such behaviour (see vv15–20). God watches the righteous, hears when they call and is especially attentive to those who are in need: ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit’ (v18).

If you are struggling now, reflect on those words and consider what they are saying to you. If you are searching for what God may be calling you to do – to taste his love and live out your discipleship – they might challenge you to act.

David is always able to praise God despite his troubles because he has faith built on actual experience of God’s provision. He has tasted and seen that the Lord is good.

QUESTIONS O What action can you take this week to develop this experience for yourself?

O What are you going to do to taste God and see his love this week?

Spend some time with God every day, asking him what you can do. When you get an idea or feeling, take action: God will not disappoint.

LIEUTENANT HAMMOND IS CORPS OFFICER, IVYBRIDGE

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Safe in the shadow of the Lord,/ Beneath his hand and power,/ I trust in him, I trust in him,/ My fortress and my tower.

(SASB 890)

The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.

(Psalm 34:19)

O hope of every contrite heart!/ O joy of all the meek!/ To those who fall, how kind thou art,/ How good to those who seek!

(SASB 85)

The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.

(Nahum 1:7)

Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, for the joy of my salvation and the many blessings that continue to accompany your wonderful gift to me; your company and care, provision and protection; and my ever growing awareness of the enormity of your love, grace and goodness, I thank you.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BRISTOL CITADEL: Harry Williams, Sylvie Rajfeld and Liberty Friday each expressed how they wanted to take the next step in their faith journey as regular members of the children’s activities and worship at the corps. They were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Captain Gavin Friday. – G. F.

BRIGHTON BEVENDEAN: When Glenda Morrison was enrolled as a soldier she shared in her testimony how God had been at work in her life, in the choices she had made at home and work. She spoke about how God had helped her overcome trials in the past and bring her to where she is. She recognised the love and support she received from her parents and said that her father, now promoted to Glory, would have been proud that she had made this commitment. Glenda is pictured with corps leader Territorial Envoy Portia Stirling-Mack. – P. S-M.

IPSWICH CITADEL: Corps officer Major Loes Palmer welcomed Marianne and Wayne Allan and Emily Cook as adherent members. – D. C.

TADCASTER: Following attendance at the Friends and Heroes after-school club and family services, Leah Stephen, Jacob Hinchliffe, Lilly Hayes and Joel Clemmit decided to become junior soldiers. They completed their classes and planned their enrolment meeting and the annual prizegiving, choosing songs, readings and solos. The new junior soldiers also acted out the story of Jesus calming the storm and challenged the congregation to ‘Trust Jesus!’ They are pictured with corps officers Majors Jackie and Michael Bainbridge, who enrolled them. – M. B. 18

Salvationist 10 August 2019

LEEK: Nicola Anger was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Leanne Wallis. Nicola attended Sunday school as a child and returned after her daughters began attending Sunday school and became junior soldiers. She testified that it was through the support and prayers of her family and corps folk that she was able to overcome an addiction to alcohol. – R. J.

CHATHAM: As part of the Junior Soldiers Day of Renewal ten children were enrolled by corps officer Major Ian Payne. Joan, Ronnie, Sandra, Shirley, Chantelle, Isabella, Kamie, Pelo, Darcymae and Grace are pictured with Junior Soldiers Sergeant Sam Wood and junior soldier workers Martin Castle and Julie Lenton. – I. P. LEIGHTON BUZZARD: Craig Baker was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Carol Back. – J. Q.

SOUTHPORT: Corps officer Captain Alison Hutchings was delighted to enrol Elaine Johnson as a soldier. Elaine became a Christian several years ago but never grew fully in her faith and commitment. Earlier this year a Salvationist friend encouraged her to attend the corps, where she was overwhelmed by the welcome. Elaine renewed and developed her relationship with God; becoming a soldier was a natural step forward on her Christian journey. – G. M.

CHESTERFIELD: Amanda King was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Elizabeth Di-Palma.

After some time away from the Army, a friend encouraged Amanda to return. The commitment is a reflection of where she feels she is at in her relationship with the Lord. – C. D-P. HIGH WYCOMBE: Sandra Mativenga was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Richard Thompson. Sandra spoke about God’s calling to become a soldier and the encouragement that she received on her faith journey. She also shared her desire to encourage others. – R. T.

CHATTERIS: Shirley Taylor was welcomed as an adherent member by Lieut-Colonel John Hassard. Shirley has been attending Sunday meetings since moving to the area and is also a member of the home league and luncheon club. She is a faithful and supportive member of the corps and lives her life in Christ. – H. D.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O BM David Catherwood, Belfast Temple O YPSM Mark Holmes, Winsford MARRIAGES O Dean Jones to Laura Tribble at Leeds Central by Lieutenant Jon Doyle O Samuel Ellison to Annabelle James at Sale by Major Yvonne Field and Cadet Corinne Seabridge WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Blue Sapphire (65th) O Bandsman Derek and Joy Griffin, Paignton (14 August) DEDICATED TO GOD O Jasmine Louise, daughter of Matthew and Helen Fearn, at Bolton Citadel by Majors Liliane and Paul Westlake BEREAVED O Major Dorothy Brevitt of her husband Major Lawrence Brevitt, Major Stephen Brevitt, Dunstable, and Amanda Joy de Castro of their father, Sylvia Crump of her brother O Major Joyce Holmes of her brother David Newman O Hilary Everest, Winton, of her mother Barbara Spear, Songster Rosemary Johnson, Penarth, of her sister O David Smith, Staines, of his wife Ina O Major Brenda Hunt of her brother Major Colin Hunt

PROMOTED TO GLORY Major Edith Malpas from Abbey Court Care Home on 22 July O Major Lawrence Brevitt from a Poole care home on 23 July O Brigadier Mrs Alma Day from West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St Edmunds, on 24 July O Janet Le Tissier, Guernsey O Rtd SL Margaret Hewitt, Belfast Citadel O Margaret Martin, Staines O

TRIBUTES HARRY BROOKSBANK, STAPLE HILL HARRY was born in March 1920 and was a very proud Yorkshireman. He knew the meaning of the word ‘consistency’ and lived it out in every aspect of his life.

Harry was a loving husband, nurturing father, encouraging grandad and a devoted great-grandad.

His consistent approach to life was expressed clearly through his faithful service to his country in the RAF during the war and to God through more than 50 years of local officership as corps secretary and treasurer.

Harry enjoyed a long and fulfilled life.

He prayed for every member of his family twice a day and demonstrated his love of Christ in all things. His absolute trust in God enabled him to face hard times with tenacity and optimism.

Harry is deeply missed by those who

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O Zimbabwe (regional home league conference), Wed 7 Aug – Sun 11* O ICO, Th 8 and Sun 11** O Ayr, Sat Sun 18 O Sunbury Court (Right at the Heart conference), Mon 26 and Sat Sun 1 Sep O IHQ (officers councils), Fri 6 O Senior leaders day, Sat 7 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O Zimbabwe (regional home league conference), Wed 7 Aug – Sun 11*** O New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory, Sun 11**** THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES O South and Mid Wales (divisional visit), Th 29 Aug – Sun 1 Sep O IHQ (leaders orientation), Tu 3 – Fri 13 * World President of Women’s Ministries only ** The General only *** World Secretary for Women’s Ministries only **** Chief of the Staff only

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Salvationist 10 August 2019

loved him but lives on through those he invested in.

Soldier of Christ, well done! – N. B. AUDREY LE PAGE, GUERNSEY AUDREY was born into a Salvation Army family as the youngest child of Brigadier and Mrs James Clark. She grew up in different corps as her parents moved around – including Barnsley, Eccles, Bradford Temple, Douglas, St Helens, Leeds Central, Leeds West Hunslet, Nelson and Harwich – before a move to St Peter Port in Guernsey, where Audrey met Ron, her future husband.

Audrey was proud of The Salvation Army and whenever the family moved, she would encourage her new friends to attend Sunday school with her.

After her marriage to Ron, Graham and Janice were born and Audrey devoted her time to them and their families.

For more than 60 years Audrey was a songster and also helped with the weekly luncheon club and toddler groups. She was a happy, positive and faithful soldier at the corps. – J. H. MAJOR KEITH WILLIAMS KEITH was born into a Salvation Army family in Ryde, on the Isle of Wight, and made his first personal commitment to the Lord at Sunday school.

At the age of 12 his parents, Charles and Evelyn Williams, became auxiliary captains and undertook appointments in Dorset before moving to Newbury. Here Keith became a soldier, bandsman and singing company leader.

While he was working for the Ministry of Defence at Aldermaston, Keith’s parents were appointed to Basingstoke Corps, where he met Rosemarie Swan.

They were married in 1975 and later had three sons.

After a year as territorial envoys they entered the Disciples of Jesus Session at the International Training College in 1976. Their first appointment was in Maltby, a mining community in South Yorkshire, and they later served in

Scotland. While there Keith was asked to provide pastoral support and minister to the residents of Lockerbie following the disaster of 1988. They continued their service with appointments in the Anglia and Northern divisions before retiring to Norwich in 2018. Keith had suffered from some health problems for a few years and his health deteriorated rapidly in retirement.

Married for 43 years and completing 41 years as corps officers, Keith’s marriage and ministry were united. He was a gentle, even-tempered man and his life was one of devotion and service, both to his family and to the Lord he loved. – R. W. JANET RHYLAND, BASILDON JAN linked up with the Army through the parent-and-toddler group at Grays, where she took her son, Spencer. She became a soldier in 1982 and threw herself into work at the corps.

In 1988 Jan took the bold step of becoming a divisional envoy and assumed leadership of Stanford-leHope. She was diligent in this work, developing new community activities and ministering to her congregation.

Jan retired in 1999, but after attending the 2000 international congress in Atlanta, she returned home convinced that God hadn’t finished with her yet.

She resumed the role of corps leader in 2002 for a further three years.

After her second retirement Jan soldiered at Basildon, where she remained active in all aspects of corps life until ill health limited her involvement. She is remembered as a great encourager and a courageous witness. Her faithfulness in prayer for the corps and its people is sorely missed. – P. W.

Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication.

Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

CISSIE RANKIN, CUMBERNAULD CISSIE was born in Kilsyth in 1934, into a family of five brothers.

It was here her caring nature first developed.

As a girl she attended Kilsyth Corps, and later Cumbernauld.

In total, she was a faithful soldier for 70 years.

Her beautiful singing voice was put to great use in the songsters. On one occasion, singing in an open-air meeting, she caught the attention of Harry. Love blossomed and they married, celebrating their 65th anniversary earlier this year just prior to Harry’s promotion to Glory.

They had three children and three grandchildren, and Cissie loved and encouraged them all. After her family had grown up, she continued to show her love for others through her work in a care home. In more recent years, living with Alzheimer’s disease, it was her turn to receive care from family and support staff. Right through her illness she continued to bless people with her singing. – G. J.

Salvationist 10 August 2019

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ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 10 August 2019

22-23

‘ Employees, friends, members, officers, volunteers – we have them all in The Salvation Army!

We’ve asked some of them to tell us about themselves. This week…

DAVID PEACOCK

I met an officer selling papers in the town. I was invited along to The Salvation Army and loved it

’

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

I like to go to places connected to the royal family. This year I am going to see the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

I have visited many royal palaces but I really enjoyed visiting Windsor Castle.

(Mold)

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

Jesus, because he is my friend. I would like to ask him lots of questions and get to know him better.

How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I met an officer selling papers in the town. I was invited along to The Salvation Army and loved it. I have been coming to the Army now for years and love the music, especially the band.

What made you want to volunteer for the Army?

I liked attending the Sunday meetings and decided to volunteer in the week.

I help out two days a week doing everything from working the till in the charity shop to mopping the floors.

What is the most interesting thing about your role?

I like to stamp the magazines every week as I get to read Salvationist and the War Cry first! I enjoy reading about what is going on at other corps and looking at the photographs to see if there is anyone I know. I also like working in the shop because I get to talk to people and help them to find a bargain.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would like the territorial leaders to visit my corps. I would like them to see my church.

What do you do in your spare time?

I like to ride my bike and I also volunteer in another charity shop. I enjoy watching snooker and anything to do with the royal family. I often go on day trips to different places.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

My favourite song to sing in church is ‘Send The Fire’ (SASB 326).

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

The Queen as she takes the salute at her birthday parade, Trooping the Colour. I would like to ask her lots of questions.

What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics?

I would play snooker if it were an Olympic sport. I also like to cycle so I would quite like to take part in the cycling.

What is your favourite food?

I love a carvery and always go back for more! I also like the cake that they sell in the coffee shop – it is very tasty.

What languages do you speak?

I live in Wales so I know a little Welsh, but not a lot.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

I would like everyone to be nice to each other.

If you had to be handcuffed to someone for a day, who would it be?

One of our territorial leaders, so I could see what they do on a typical day.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

A big colouring book and lots of pencils.

We sometimes do Bible journaling at the Army and I really enjoy it.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Always keep trying. Never give up.

What’s the most valuable thing you possess?

My fish and my collection of soft toys.

Something interesting people might not know about you is…

I have been in Salvationist before and I am excited to be in it again.