Salvationist 10 October 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1777 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 10 October 2020

Facing the challenge Anti-Slavery Day 2020

PLUS

THE INSIDE STORY OF PRISON CHAPLAINCY

SEE PAGES 8 AND 9

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

UNIVERSAL CREDIT: PLEA NOT TO AXE £20 A WEEK ‘LIFELINE’

SMALLER CHURCHES RESTRICTED BY YOUTUBE OVER ONLINE SERVICE TIMES

CHURCH TOLD TO GIVE FAMILIES LAST WORD ON EPITAPHS

Millions of the UK’s poorest households could see their incomes cut by £20 a week from April unless a ‘lifeline’ payment continues, charities warn.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation and others are calling on the chancellor to make a temporary rise in universal credit, plus other benefits, permanent.

The yearlong hike was introduced in April, after the UK went into lockdown, to help those who had lost their jobs.

But there are no signs it will be extended beyond next April…

Some 50 children’s charities, food bank providers, housing organisations, benefit and debt advisers, disability groups and others say if this ‘lifeline’ is cut it risks plunging struggling households into poverty…

In a letter to the chancellor… they say 700,000 more people will be driven into poverty, including 300,000 children, while a further 500,000 of those already in poverty will be plunged into deep poverty – a measure which is gauged by being more than 50 per cent below the poverty line…

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation is an independent social change organisation working to solve UK poverty.

Other signatories include Barnardo’s, Citizens Advice, Child Poverty Action Group, Macmillan Cancer Support, Oxfam, The Salvation Army, Save the Children and Shelter.

It comes... after think tank the Resolution Foundation issued a similar warning.

It’s emerged that YouTube is preventing smaller churches from hosting their online services at their requested time.

Known as a ‘premiere’, where an event is streamed at a set time, subscribers can watch live and interact with others.

However, due to the large increase in live events since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, YouTube is moving the times for some users with [fewer] than 100 subscribers.

It means church services which are advertised to begin at 10 am or 11 am are then often moved, leaving members of the congregation confused…

It’s understood those with [more than] 100 subscribers are unaffected by the change.

Headstones in Church of England graveyards need not be inscribed in English, a church judge has said, during a row over an epitaph in Irish.

The judge said that England was a ‘multi-ethnic and multicultural’ society and that English might not be the ‘natural’ language some people wish to use to commemorate their loved ones…

The statement added that ‘the Irish language is an important part of the heritage of the Church of England’, citing the role of Irish-speaking monks in Lindisfarne who helped to establish the English church.

There are other examples in Church of England graveyards of...

Irish inscriptions with no translation, including that of Spike Milligan: Duirt mé leat go raibh mé breoite, which translates as ‘I told you I was ill’.

Premier

The Times

Christians are more likely to feel an increased sense of community spirit in their neighbourhood as a result of the pandemic this year, a survey has found.

The findings of the survey conducted… by Savanta ComRes on behalf of Christian Aid, Covid-19: Global Neighbours, reveal that 50 per cent of Christians reported an increase of community spirit since March, compared with 40 per cent of those of another religion and 37 per cent of those without a religion…

The head of community fundraising and public engagement at Christian Aid, Chine McDonald, said: ‘Covid-19 may have forced us to physically separate, but connection and community have been huge themes this year...’

One third of all adults who took part in the survey said that they thought that the sense of community spirit in their neighbourhood had not changed; 10 per cent said that it had decreased…

The findings were drawn from an online survey of 2,315 adults in the UK between 4 and 7 September.

BBC News

Church Times

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CHRISTIANS MOST LIKELY TO FEEL INCREASED COMMUNITY SPIRIT, SURVEY FINDS

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth 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 Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS

FINDING FREEDOM IN July my wife, Jayne, and I spent a few days in North Wales. The trip included a visit to Portmeirion, a quaint holiday village built in Italian style overlooking the Dwyryd estuary. Portmeirion is famous for its pottery, although the company that produces it is actually based in Stoke-on-Trent. Many tourists, however, visit because it was the location used for the cult 1960s TV series The Prisoner. In the show, Patrick McGoohan plays Number 6, a former intelligence agent who is imprisoned in the village while his captors try to extract information from him. At the start of each episode Number 6 shouts: ‘I am not a number, I am a free man!’ It was his protest against a loss of identity and freedom.

A few miles from Portmeirion is HMP Berwyn, which is definitely not on the tourist trail. It does get visitors, though, and one of those is Salvationist chaplain Kath Sneade. On pages 8 and 9 she tells us about her work of ministering to the spiritual and emotional needs of prisoners and staff.

In recent years we have become increasingly aware of another form of imprisonment: modern slavery. The Army is heavily involved in combatting this social evil, holding the government contract for supporting victims of human trafficking and modern slavery in England and Wales. The Army also highlights Anti-Slavery Day on 18 October each year. On page 7 you can read about how to get involved in this year’s #WeAreNotForSale campaign by buying a special face mask and sharing images of yourself wearing it.

Freedom from another kind of restriction features in the reflection by Major Catherine Wyles on page 14, as she considers the story of the blind man healed by Jesus. She relates the story to the practical service many corps are undertaking during the pandemic, which, she says, may open people’s eyes to the reality of Jesus.

‘What about rich people?’ asks Major Mal Davies on pages 10 and 11. While the Army has traditionally focused its ministry on disadvantaged people, those further up the economic and social ladder also need to find freedom in Christ. ‘We must not ignore the spiritual need of those who have little material need,’ he says.

However we are called to serve the Lord, and in whatever circumstances, we can often feel imprisoned by fear. But as the Territorial Commander reminds us on page 4, we need not let fear hold us back. The witness of others who have faced great challenges, combined with our faith in the God who is with us in every situation, can help us serve with confidence.

During these days of local lockdown for some, and quarantine or shielding for others, many people, like Number 6, may be sensing a loss of identity and freedom. But the wonderful paradox of our faith is that when we surrender ourselves to God we discover who we really are and experience true and lasting freedom: freedom from sin, freedom to serve and freedom to grow in our relationship with him.

Make me a captive, Lord, And then I shall be free; Force me to render up my sword, And I shall conqueror be.

I sink in life’s alarms When by myself I stand; Imprison me within thine arms And strong shall be my hand.

(SASB 724)

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Quotes from the media

2

A message from the Territorial Commander

4

News

5 and 6

Prayer matters

6

Preview #WeAreNotForSale 2020

7

previewed by Isobel McFarlane

Feature Release from darkness

8 and 9

by Kath Sneade

Viewpoint 10 and 11 What about rich people?

by Major Mal Davies

Feature 12 and 13 Reinventing the tambourine

by Major Martin Whybrow

Reflection Faith in a food parcel

14

by Major Catherine Wyles

Resources Faith in transition

15

by Major Helen Schofield

Bible study 16 and 17 False religion is worthless

by Major Nick Coke

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Melvyn Knott

Reflection Journey of discovery

18

by Major Jim Bryden

Poets’ corner We Thank You, Lord

19

by Mark Ayling

Fill Me With Your Spirit, Lord

by Major Howard Webber

Sometimes I Wonder

by Brian Colley

New commitments Adverts

20 21 and 23

Announcements

22

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring Glynis Bromage

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

Salvationist 10 October 2020

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Fear not – have faith

T

HE recent cadets welcome meeting was the first time I have sat through a meeting with a mask on, and that was quite an experience. It seems that this pandemic is not going away, and we find ourselves having to adjust – sometimes one step forward and, it feels like, two steps back.

But how good it was to be in worship at William Booth College and to welcome the new session.

I’m pleased to hear of corps around the territory that have been able to recommence Sunday worship, and it’s lovely to hear of some of the blessings that have come as a result. I’m acutely conscious, though, that for so many of our corps at the moment that’s just not a viable option.

There’s no doubt that infections are increasing and consequently restrictions are becoming tighter. So we’re going to continue to live with levels of uncertainty and anxiety. We’re not sure how it’s all going to develop, not only with respect to our worship but also with respect to our work and the way we live our lives.

These are difficult and challenging days.

I woke up recently with a line of a song in my head: ‘Fear not, have faith, ’tis I who lead the way!’ (SASB 838).

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

That was a great start to the morning. The first verse says: ‘How wonderful it is to walk with God/ Along the road that holy men have trod;/ How wonderful it is to hear him say: Fear not, have faith, ’tis I who lead the way!’ The road of discipleship has been trodden by men and women of faith over generations.

On this road God comes alongside us and says: ‘Fear not, have faith, ’tis I who lead the way!’

My thoughts jumped to Hebrews 11, that great chapter of faith.

One of the most helpful definitions of faith that I came across many years ago now was that faith is my response to God’s initiative.

In other words, it’s all about God and my response to him. It starts with him, but it demands my response. The difference between belief and faith is that, for example, I could believe that you can drive a car but I might have to exercise great faith to take up your invitation to get in it and be driven along with you! Faith is my response to God’s initiative.

In Hebrews 11, we read of a great number of men and women who had faith – people whose lives were transformed as they walked in faith, despite some of the terrors, difficulties and challenges, despite imprisonment and ill-treatment. Verse 39 says: ‘These were all commended for their faith.’

Hebrews 12 starts with these words: ‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.’

On first reading, those words can be a bit scary and overwhelming – it seems that all those people of faith referenced in chapter 11 are there witnessing us,

watching how we are doing. The Living Bible paraphrase puts it this way: ‘Since we have such a huge crowd of men of faith watching us from the grandstands.’

It pictures us centre stage, surrounded by all these heroes of the faith who are watching, perhaps cheering us on, but certainly checking on how we are doing.

That’s been a typical understanding of the verse, but I want to put it to you that they are not being witnesses of us, they are not watching us, but they are witnessing to us. Do you see the difference? Their own lives and their own testimonies are their witness to us that we too can trust in God. It’s as if they are saying, ‘God has brought us through and he will bring you through also, regardless of the challenges, regardless of the hardship.’ It’s not that they’re witnessing to us in the sense of being critical of us, or even encouraging us – they are saying that their testimony is that God brought them through and he’s going to be with us too.

Whatever it is that God is asking of you, this is the testimony of so many other people: ‘Go for it. You can depend on him.’ Faith is your response to God’s initiative. So, whether it’s public ministry, plucking up the courage to ring your neighbour’s doorbell to see how they’re doing, supporting someone in a particular way, taking a bundle of War Crys out on to the street, speaking up for justice at work, speaking up for peace in our communities or speaking a word of encouragement for Jesus in our networks – whatever it is, God is with us and his word is true.

‘Have faith, ’tis I who lead the way!’

Those were the words that resonated in my heart and mind that morning, and I hope they’ll resonate in yours as you seek God – as you seek his strength and comfort, and as you seek to be obedient to what he is calling you to be and do.

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER O This

message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ user/salvationarmyvideo

NEWS

ARMY NEWS

Partners appointed to help slavery victims ENGLAND AND WALES

COMMUNITY

Army wins award from mayor STOWMARKET THE corps has won an award from the mayor for its ongoing work in the community during lockdown.

Councillor Paul Ekpenyong invited nominations for his Covid-19 Awards and was overwhelmed by the response, with many people nominating The Salvation Army.

One nomination read: ‘I would like to nominate Stowmarket Salvation Army for their support during the lockdown. Without this help we do not know what we would have done. We are both disabled and in our 80s. They did all our shopping and delivered hot meals every week.’

The awards aimed to promote selflessness and resilience in the community.

The mayor commented that he knew The Salvation Army would be ‘out and about being good Samaritans’.

Corps officers Majors Beverley and James Lloyd also received a letter of appreciation from Jo Churchill, MP. ‘Many constituents have commented on your kindness,’ Jo wrote. ‘Thank you very much!’ – MB

ARMY NEWS

Procurement Unit picks up prize THQ THE Procurement Unit has been named Team of the Year in a Small Organisation category at the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Excellence in Procurement Awards 2020.

The team, which buys a wide range of goods and services for The Salvation Army, was recognised for its efforts in building a procurement function from scratch.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the team has played a vital role in creating a network of 22 food hubs, which provide stock for corps to deliver essential food

parcels to more than 25,000 people in need.

The Procurement Unit has also arranged the distribution of 700,000 items of personal protective equipment, as well as planning the bulk delivery of it to Salvation Army care homes, Lifehouses and modern slavery safe houses.

The team was one of eight companies nominated in the category. It was also shortlisted for the Best Procurement Transformation award after overhauling its purchasing approach and saving millions of pounds, which can instead be used to help people in need.

Judges for the awards said: ‘A very clear stakeholder-led approach with a flexible model to balance commercial and social outcomes. The challenges were significant but were overcome through common-sense solutions at very low cost.’ – AR

THE Salvation Army has announced the specialist partners it will work with to manage the support of adult victims of modern slavery in England and Wales through the government’s Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract (MSVCC).

The new and extended contract enables the Army and its partners to build on relationships and expertise developed since 2011 when it was first appointed to manage the wide-ranging specialist support services needed to help survivors of slavery recover and move on with their lives.

The partners include Ashiana, Bawso, BCHA, Black Country Women’s Aid, City Hearts, Hestia, Medaille Trust, Migrant Help, Saint John of God Hospitaller Services, Snowdrop Project, Palm Cove Society and Unseen UK. The new MSVCC runs for an initial five-year period. During this time The Salvation Army will review its services and consider new partnerships so that its services can respond to demand fairly and dynamically. – AR

ECUMENICAL

Churches connect together online WEST WIMBLEDON AS the moderator of Churches Together in West Wimbledon, Major Kerry Coke (Raynes Park) has had the opportunity to engage with nearby churches throughout the pandemic.

This ecumenical co-operation initially involved getting everyone set up online; some churches had the equipment and know-how to do this quickly, but others understandably struggled to adapt. Some churches helped out in the early weeks by holding short Zoom tutorials and sharing experiences of leading worship online.

‘It felt like we were all in it together,’ said Major Kerry. ‘We have a tradition of sharing a Good Friday walk of witness around the town centre and, while that couldn’t work, we were able to join together on Zoom as a massed group of believers from various denominations and share the story in a similar way to usual. It was quite emotional and felt special to be able to meet in this way at a key moment in church life.’

The churches also created a Pentecost Prayer video – comprising representatives of all the churches – which they each used during their Sunday services. There are plans to produce a similar video at Christmas sharing words of peace and hope.

As well as these practical offerings, the churches have supported each other in prayer and with listening ears.

‘Relationships have grown deeper as a result of our vulnerability,’ Major Kerry concluded. ‘We’ve come out of this time as a stronger group.’ – AR Salvationist 10 October 2020

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Prayer

NEWS

NEWS

Major Cliff Allchin gives 5,000th corps meal to Matthew

DIVISIONAL PRAYER FOCUS (CENTRAL EAST)

by Major Ann Pugh (Farcet and Whittlesey, and Divisional Prayer Co-ordinator)

SATURDAY 10 OCTOBER – ACTS 4:33 Rothwell is a small market town outside Kettering. In recent years the corps moved from its hall into a rented shop on the main street. The site houses a drop-in café, small charity shop, community lounge and worship hall. Pray that God will continue to inspire vision and mission as they seek to serve and build relationships with people. Pray that faith conversations will happen that will lead people to Jesus.

SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER – ACTS 4:33 Rushden Corps typically has a very busy community presence, with charity shops, a community centre and a coffee shop. However, they are still looking for new ways to engage with people, such as establishing a local Employment Plus and being a point of contact to help people experiencing unemployment on their journey back into work. Pray that this initiative will also help people to learn basic computer skills and engage with the ever-changing digital world.

COMMUNITY

Corps feeds thousands in need LEEDS CENTRAL ON 14 September, the corps served its 5,000th hot takeaway meal for people impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Led by corps officers Majors Cliff and Joy Allchin, the team has provided hot daily meals to people in need, with sandwiches, cake and other food available to collect later in the day from the hall door. At the end of each week, visitors have also been given a large bag of groceries. On top of this, about 90 deliveries have been arranged for those unable to leave home.

The corps has also supplied a wide range of other items, including school uniforms, toiletries, Asda vouchers, sleeping bags, toys and a bicycle pump. Through God’s help their stock of essentials has never run out. Donors supporting the work include Food Aid Network, FareShare, Bramhope Methodist Church, BW Legal, TK Maxx and Homesense.

Christopher, a regular visitor, summed up the individual distress behind each lunch and parcel in a thank you poem: ‘In this desperate hour when we find ourselves alone,/ You’re making sure at the least there’s a meal to be found.’ – MB SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING The corps has continued to serve the community throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

After one serious house fire, the corps provided food, new bedding and kitchen equipment. Corps officer Major Granville Myers visited the family and friends of a motorcyclist who sustained fatal injuries in a road accident, offering comfort and prayerful support. Toiletries are also regularly donated to the nearby Booth Centre Lifehouse. – BE

Like our page at SalvationistOnline to keep up to date

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

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ANTI-TRAFFICKING AND MODERN SLAVERY FOCUS

Major Heather Grinsted (Deputy Director, Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery, THQ)

MONDAY 12 OCTOBER Dear God, we pray for those who are vulnerable to being exploited: those stepping out into the unknown, perhaps moving away from home, sometimes to a different country or culture, those who have been tricked by the sale of false hope and a better life ahead of them. We pray too for the protection of people at risk in our own neighbourhoods, the defenceless and unprotected.

Amen.

TUESDAY 13 OCTOBER Dear God, I thank you that all of us are precious to you. We pray for victims of modern slavery, for those who have been treated as commodities and held captive by the greed and violence of a broken world. We pray for children, women and men who are bought and sold and abused by those who have forgotten the worth of a human being. May they rediscover their value in you.

Amen.

WEDNESDAY 14 OCTOBER Dear God, please give those who are trapped or enslaved the opportunity, courage and support they need to escape from a place of danger to a place of safety. We pray for our staff and volunteers, that their actions and words will aid recovery and restoration and bring renewed hope. We pray that through them, survivors will come to know God’s love and freedom. Amen.

THURSDAY 15 OCTOBER Dear God, we pray for a change of heart in the perpetrators of human trafficking. We ask for a miracle, that you would touch the hearts of those who enslave others. We pray that your light will break through their darkness and they will turn from their ways, finding freedom from greed and violence. Amen.

FRIDAY 16 OCTOBER Dear God, we pray for the families and friends of victims and survivors. We long for a world where there is no need for an impoverished family to send a child into a trafficking situation; no need for a young person to leave home and fall victim to perpetrators. And we pray that when survivors return home, they will be reunited with their families with love, mercy and compassion. Amen.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources

PREVIEW

#WeAreNotForSale 2020 Isobel McFarlane (PR and Communications Office) introduces the Army’s Anti-Slavery Day campaign

THE Salvation Army is asking people to stand in solidarity with the victims of modern slavery on Anti-Slavery Day 2020 (Sunday 18 October) by buying a special edition #WeAreNotForSale face mask.

Tackling modern slavery and human trafficking – and supporting survivors of this shocking crime – is a global priority for The Salvation Army. By purchasing a face mask from SP&S people can help to raise awareness of modern slavery and vital funds for the Army’s Victim Care Fund, which provides essential items outside the support they are entitled to through the government contract.

In today’s world people wear face masks to protect others, but victims of slavery have been masked and silenced by those exploiting them for years. The Salvation Army is also concerned that coronavirus lockdown measures make it harder for the public to spot and report the signs of modern slavery.

To join the campaign and spread the word, The Salvation Army is asking people to wear a mask, take a selfie and share it online with the hashtag #WeAreNotForSale on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and tag @salvationarmyuk. A digital toolkit will be available with lots of information and help for social media posts.

The Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit will be asking the Army’s young people to hand over their social media platforms to campaign and raise awareness of modern slavery for the weeks around Anti-Slavery Day. Everyone will be challenged to consider other ways they can support, including fundraising, looking out for the signs of modern slavery around them and volunteering to support the Army’s work with survivors of slavery.

Territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill

O O

Find out more at salvationarmy.org.uk/modern-slavery Face masks are priced £5.99 (including postage and packing) Salvationist 10 October 2020

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FEATURE I Prison ministry

Release from darkness To mark Prisons Week (11–17 October) chaplain Kath Sneade gives an insight into her challenging but rewarding work T a Roots convention in the late 1990s, someone gave me a Bible passage: ‘The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners’ (Isaiah 61:1).

I didn’t know what significance that had to my life at the time, but I have gone back to that passage time and time again through my life’s many twists and turns.

A

population of 1,700 men, some sentenced and some on remand. The chaplaincy has five full-time staff members: three Christians, a Sikh and an Imam. We also have a few sessional chaplains and 40 to 50 volunteers working anything from a few hours to a couple of days a week.

The chaplaincy centre is rarely quiet, with worship groups, study groups, restorative justice groups, the Alpha course and men who come to clear their heads, light candles for loved ones or find a listening ear. None of this could be done without our volunteer base.

HMP Berwyn opened in February 2017. I applied to become a Free Church chaplain, but didn’t get past the interview stage. Six months later another opportunity arose when the job of chaplain and link worker appeared on the Army’s job vacancies page. I applied and got through, but had to wait six months to get the necessary clearances.

I eventually started work at Berwyn in February 2018.

Berwyn is a Category C prison with a

Prison during lockdown has been very different, with no volunteers allowed and men locked behind their doors for the vast majority of the day.

But we are now beginning to see men back in the chaplaincy centre once again, with study groups and volunteers coming back slowly.

Chaplaincy is very much a ministry of presence, being alongside someone – prisoner or staff member – on their walk, regardless of race, religion,

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

gender or anything else. Men of faith and of no faith will use chaplaincy in their time of need. If there is a loved one in hospital or they have not been able to get hold of someone, they do not care what religion we are, they just want someone to help them.

We don’t always see the good we do.

Sometimes we hear of it later, when a staff member or volunteer will say how a man has told them of the difference that our conversation has made.

There have been many memorable occasions for me: moments when I sensed something click in a man’s mind as I said something; the time when a man full of self-loathing and hate was unsettled and anxious, but calmed down when I prayed at the end of our talk; the occasions when men who were at risk of suicide and self-harm turned a corner and learnt new ways of coping; the instance when a man said, ‘Miss, I was sat here praying for the right words and that someone would help me, and now you have rung and given me the words I needed to hear.’

Men have a respect for the chaplaincy team. We often find that they are different characters when they are with chaplaincy staff members or in the chaplaincy space and when they are on the wings. There is something about the space we offer – it helps men feel safe

Kath in Wrexham Band (prior to Covid-19 restrictions) and recognise a peace that they don’t feel elsewhere.

Berwyn has gained a lot of negative press, with people outside saying it’s like a hotel. Yes, there are benefits to a brand new prison with an emphasis on rehabilitation. The men have a phone in their room, which they can use to call authorised numbers. These phones are to maintain family ties, which reduces reoffending. They also have a TV, a laptop and a shower.

Those are positives, but the negative is that the men are locked in their rooms for more hours.

Then there is the other part of my job: the link work. I had free rein on this

when I started because it was a new job in a new jail. This was a difficult thing to kick-start. With a lot of chaplaincy work it is easy to see what you have achieved, but link work is not always like that. It has taken a few different forms over the past two and a half years, including filling in numerous family tracing forms with men, bringing the band in at Christmas and on other occasions and taking part in a jobs fair with our Employment Plus co-ordinator for men who were due to be released within six months.

The link work also involves being at the Wrexham Corps community care hub, where many organisations – the

probation service, Shelter, the mental health team, a dentist, a GP and the Department for Work and Pensions, to name a few – gather on a Friday to assist people, including prison leavers.

On Thursdays, breakfast is served at the corps for the homeless community, which again can include prison leavers. There are also good links between Berwyn and The Salvation Army’s 7ǔ Dewr housing provision for ex-forces personnel in Wrexham.

All this has looked very different during lockdown. We do not know what the future holds but we serve a God who does.

If we go back to the ‘soup, soap and salvation’ approach of William Booth, that means we can’t sort out a person’s issues if we haven’t dealt with their basic human needs, whether that be a listening ear in the prison or practical work in the community. God calls us to proclaim good news to the poor, to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoner.

O To download prayers for Prisons Week, go to prisonsweek.org

KATH IS A SOLDIER AT WREXHAM Salvationist 10 October 2020

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VIEW POINT

What about rich people? asks Major Mal Davies

Wealthy people need Jesus as much as the person sleeping in the gutter

O

VER the past decade, in many parts of the world, there has been a revitalised interest in the mission of The Salvation Army. Many articles have been written, numerous books authored and scores of seminars and conferences held to clarify, discuss, promote and pray about the mission of the Army. It has become de rigueur for writers and speakers, no matter their topic, to pepper their thoughts with words such as ‘missional’, ‘missiology’ and ‘missiological’.

Much of this renewed interest has been centred on the concept of radical change, getting back to the roots of what the Army is about, identifying the ‘DNA of the Army’ (another term that has become a cliché) and a push to return to the methods and passion of the Founders.

We have seen physical evidence of this in the creation of new-style corps and programmes that aim to assist the most disadvantaged people in our communities, and this is fantastic. We should keep doing it. It is God’s work; the sort of work William and Catherine Booth would have us do.

However, for some time now I’ve had a growing concern with this increasingly restricted interpretation of the Army’s mission. Expressed in the simplest of terms my concern is: what about rich people?

The Salvation Army was partly born out of William Booth’s frustration with a Church that had become exclusivist, a Church that had no place for the poor and downtrodden, a Church that said the gospel was only for people who fit into a certain socio-demographic group.

However, increasingly, I now see parts of the Army so aggressively aim to service the disadvantaged that they are almost at risk of becoming exclusivist.

I’ve heard young Salvationists talk disparagingly of wealthy people, concluding that the well-to-do will never heed the gospel message so it’s no use trying to reach them.

I attended an Army function that included considerable chest-beating about how we have a mission to the poor and downcast, and the friend I brought with me – the manager of a thriving business and a non-Christian – leant over, smiled and whispered to me: ‘So which church should I go to?’

Part of my difficulty is this: for our first appointment my wife and I were corps

officers in the leafy outer suburb of a capital city where the majority of people were decidedly middle-class, living in nice houses with clipped lawns. We didn’t have people sleeping in gutters, drug dealers on the streets, prostitutes on the corners, graffiti-covered squats or high unemployment.

Now, if you’re asking why the Army is there, the answer is quite simply because there are many, many people there who don’t know Jesus.

The task that faced us and our corps was to bring anyone and everyone in that community into a relationship with Jesus – not just the down-and-out but also the wealthy home-owner, the CEO, the academic and the entrepreneur.

When William Booth said our mission was to the ‘whosoever’ he didn’t say ‘the whosoever below the poverty line’ or ‘the homeless whosoever’. He meant everyone.

I’m reminded of the scene in Edward H Joy’s book The Old Corps when the aristocratic Lady B kneels at the mercy seat and is joined by the ‘stinking, unwashed, ragged and verminous’ Dirty Jimmy. The corps officer attempts to move Dirty Jimmy along to protect the sensitivities of Lady B, but she stops him. ‘Leave him alone,’ she says, ‘we are both seeking the same Lord.’

That story of Lady B with her carriage, fine clothing, jewels and maids, and Dirty Jimmy with his ragged clothes, unkempt hair and dishevelled appearance has inspired many an officer to dwell on the importance of helping Dirty Jimmy in his search for salvation. But it was exactly the same search based on exactly the same need that brought Lady B to her knees at a Salvation Army mercy seat.

In 1889 General William Booth launched a campaign to convert 100,000 people in six months. The War Cry of 16 November 1889 quotes him as saying: ‘Go straight for souls and go for the worst.’

This eventually became the slogan that appeared alongside the title of The Officer magazine between 1898 and 1906. It became a catchcry for the Army generally, as it seemed to encapsulate the essence of its mission.

But who out of Dirty Jimmy and Lady B had the ‘worst’ soul? I’m not convinced we can equate someone who is materially poor with someone who is spiritually poor. Who says the ‘worst’

souls belong to those in the worst financial and social state?

At this point I should give some context to my position. I’m a fifthgeneration Salvationist and a thirdgeneration officer. Before becoming an officer I worked for the Army for 15 years in programmes for people experiencing homelessness, people in crisis situations and people battling with long-term unemployment. I’ve seen people struggling with drug addiction, I’ve been with people who have self-mutilated, I’ve cleaned up vomit from semi-conscious alcoholics, I’ve stood with people in court as they’ve been sentenced to jail.

I think the Army’s work with people such as these is necessary, biblically mandated, divinely approved and exemplified by the life, character and teaching of Jesus. The Salvation Army should be doing all it can for the most disadvantaged people in society and I pray encouragement, protection and blessing on those charged with doing this work.

However, we must not become so blinkered to completing this work that we turn our backs on those not in material need. We must not become exclusivist.

We must not ignore the spiritual need of those who have little material need.

It is also far from appropriate to suggest that those of a wealthier status can go to church elsewhere because the Army only takes in the down-and-out.

If the Army were to establish a corps in the richest, most well-heeled suburb in the city in which I was living, I would be happy to serve there, because the truth is that wealthy people need Jesus as much as the person sleeping in the gutter.

Just as Jesus cried over lost Jerusalem and spoke of how hard it is for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God, I would cry over the lost souls around me and work with a passion and, yes, a mission to bring them into his Kingdom.

And I believe William Booth would smile upon the work and say: ‘Whosoever will may come.’

O This article first appeared in The Officer magazine

MAJOR DAVIES IS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, THQ Salvationist 10 October 2020

11

FEATURE I The timbrel

Reinventing the tambourine Major Martin Whybrow explores the enduring appeal of the timbrel

T

HE expression ‘reinventing the wheel’ means to waste time redesigning something so obvious that no further refinements are necessary or even possible. Tambourines are shaped like wheels, so we might be forgiven for thinking that there has never been any possibility of using them, or even making them, in different ways. Yet they have been reinvented repeatedly throughout the Army’s history.

Captain Lizzie Cheeseman has been credited with introducing tambourines to the Army. In the 1870s the instrument was primarily a plaything of children or part of public, even exotic, entertainment.

Lizzie had once worked in a theatre in Marylebone and, amazed by one of the acts that featured tambourine-playing, learnt to play one herself. After she was converted she played her tambourine in meetings and even at her own wedding.

So the Army sanctified the music hall tambourine, in the same way that it had made use of music hall tunes and architecture.

The catalyst to their widespread use is said to have been William Booth’s War Cry article in February 1881, in which he wrote about the prophetess Miriam from Exodus 15:20: ‘And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women

Timbreltastic group, Hadleigh Temple

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

A Baker tambourine from the 1890s went out after her with timbrels and with dances’ (King James Version). It was accompanied by a large illustration of Miriam playing her instrument.

In The Salvation Army the word ‘timbrel’ has tended to be preferred over ‘tambourine’, while those leading groups of timbrel players have been officially designated ‘timbrel leaders’. The difference between tambourines and timbrels has often been debated, but it is generally thought that by having a skin (for extra noise) and ribbons (for added visual impact), the Army timbrel is

a reinvention of the tambourine.

Following the publication of the Founder’s article Captain Rothwell of Mansfield purchased a tambourine for his wife to play in open-air meetings.

Very quickly it was reinvented again, this time as a collection plate to take round and gather in offerings during these meetings.

Demand for tambourines within The Salvation Army exploded. In October 1882 Commissioner Railton reported that 1,600 had been sold in six weeks. This must have delighted

manufacturers around the country as sales of them had been declining during the century.

When William Booth produced his plans for social work – the Darkest England scheme – he set up ‘elevators’, which were industrial workshops associated with hostels where those staying could learn new skills. One of the workshops specifically trained men to make tambourines. The Army had demand, so why not supply it?

For hundreds of years tambourinemaking had been a cottage industry. In 1890 it appears that there were at least eight households in Bethnal Green manufacturing tambourines, and it was near here in 1890 that the Salvation Army opened its workshop at 159 Hanbury Street, Whitechapel.

Facing a reduction in direct demand from the Army, the response of two

In October 1882 a reported 1,600 tambourines sold in six weeks tambourine makers in the area was to reinvent the instrument.

William Baker, whose factory was less than a mile away, appears to have found out what the Army was up to before the Hanbury Street workshop opened. Early in 1890 he was granted a patent for his tambourine. The patent claimed that he had reinvented the manufacturing process by using only a single piece of wood for each one. Some of these reinvented tambourines were clearly aimed at Salvationists; most of the wooden frame was painted red, a blue line ran around the top of the instrument and the jingles were of bright yellow brass – the Army’s colours.

Six years later, just a mile and a half away, Emily Howard took out her own patent – this time not for the process itself but for her ‘improved tambourine’.

She claimed that it had a ‘prettier effect’ and ‘greater volume’ because it had more jingles, and each jingle was ‘corrugated’. No further patents were registered for tambourines until after the First World War. Salvation Army production seems to have continued during wartime. Adverts in The Young Soldier in 1915 described instruments as ‘Best English Make’. As if

offering nine different models was not enough, the advert added ‘tambourines made to order to any specification’.

There were suggestions that the tambourine’s appeal was declining and becoming a thing of the past. In November 1914 The Young Soldier featured a picture of the Montrose young people’s workers who were said to ‘value the tambourine’ and to ‘not mind… being thought a little oldfashioned if tambourine playing will help on the war’.

However, Trade’s marketing department put out an advert in summer 1915 that challenged the picture of decline with this statement: ‘Timbrel bands are to be found in increasing numbers throughout the country, and ever hold their own for attraction.’

When I was a teenage corps cadet at Northampton Central we had our own mini band, but no drum. I remember that while on campaign at Worcester our corps cadet guardian instructed the timbrel players to tap on the first beat of a march tempo tune to keep everyone in step. Using the tambourine as a marching drum, of course, was nothing new: William Booth is credited with doing this in his Christian Mission days.

So it seems that the tambourine just will not go away. In June 2016 Timbreltastic at Hadleigh Temple reinvented the art of timbrel-playing as the ‘latest exercise craze’. One hundred and fifty years on the tambourine is still with us. Dare we say it is still being reinvented?

MAJOR WHYBROW IS CORPS OFFICER, WICKFORD WITH STANFORD-LE-HOPE Salvationist 10 October 2020

13

REFL FLEC ECTI TION TI ON REFLECTION REFL EC CTIO O N

Faith in a food parcel Major Catherine Wyles considers how our practical service can open people’s eyes to Jesus

O

NE of the most beautiful accounts of someone reaching faith is found in John chapter 9.

It teaches us so much about the journey to believing in Jesus and having a real relationship with him.

The main character, a man born blind, began almost as a bit player. He didn’t ask for healing – Jesus and his disciples were just walking by and he became the topic of discussion.

‘Teacher, whose sin caused him to be born blind? Was it his own or his parents’ sin?’ (v2 Good News Bible).

There was a common belief that disability was the result of sin. Jesus quickly rebuked this, but his answer was a strange one: ‘His blindness has nothing to do with his sins or his parents’ sins. He is blind so that God’s power might be seen at work in him’ (v3 GNB). This may be uncomfortable reading, but as we progress through this story God’s glory is 14

Salvationist 10 October 2020

undoubtedly shown, and in perhaps the most powerful way out of all the recorded miracles.

The physical healing came first: Jesus spat on the ground and made some mud, rubbed it on the man’s eyes, then told him to go and wash in the pool of Siloam – and he ‘came back seeing’ (v7 GNB).

As a young child I was used to leading a blind lady around the town: ‘Step up, Nan. Step down,’ I would say.

I always marvelled at her ability to sense direction, but it was not easy.

Every journey was an act of faith – in her white stick and in her God. This man, as he felt his way to the pool with mud encasing his eyes, showed amazing hope. He did not know who Jesus was but he knew that he needed healing.

During this pandemic I believe that many people are stumbling to Christ,

recognising their need for healing long before they learn who he is. People who are desperately lonely, who need food or just a friendly voice have their basic needs met, but I believe it doesn’t stop there.

When the man in John 9 went home, his neighbours saw the difference and asked him who healed him. He of course answered that it was Jesus. The healing was investigated by the Pharisees, who questioned his parents and him.

Here we see a progression of this man’s faith. The Pharisees called Jesus a sinner, but the man replied: ‘I do not know if he is a sinner or not… One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see’ (v25 GNB). After more questions and insults, the man continued: ‘We know that God does not listen to sinners; he does listen to people who respect him and do what he wants them to do. Since the beginning of the world nobody has ever heard of anyone giving sight to a person born blind. Unless this man came from God, he would not be able to do a thing’ (vv31–33 GNB).

What a progression! This man had recognised that God was at work in his life.

It was after four weeks of receiving food parcels that Evelyn asked whether I had anything religious she could read. She was an older lady who was isolating in a block of flats and needed support. I gave her a little book, and the next time I went I found that she had read it and passed it on to two other ladies in her block. The journey had started.

The young man’s declaration of faith in John 9 was rewarded by an encounter with Jesus. Jesus instigated the meeting and revealed himself as the Son of Man, causing the man to reply, ‘I believe, Lord!’ (v38 GNB), and kneel down before him.

My prayer is that Jesus reveals his true self to all those to whom we have ministered in his name, including Evelyn, and that we will look back on this time and see his power at work.

MAJOR WYLES IS CORPS OFFICER, RUTHERGLEN

RESOURCES

Faith in transition

Territorial Youth and Children Secretary Major Helen Schofield highlights how corps can link up with students

D

URING September thousands of students started or returned to university. It’s an exciting time in a young person’s life, but it can throw up plenty of challenges and anxieties, particularly at this moment in time. It can often test the faith of young people and their desire to attend or link up with a church.

Friendship is vital in the early weeks of higher education and corps have a key role to play in coming alongside our students – to make them feel welcome, offer a meal, give an invitation to physical or online groups, meet for coffee or even offer a mentor. Ultimately, being involved in church will allow our young people to receive the support they need to live a life of faith in this time of transition.

This year, finding a corps will be very different from past years. Many are meeting online and it may be a real struggle for students to connect while at university. So it is even more important that the corps from which the student comes is proactive – with the student’s permission – in reaching out to a corps near their university.

While ensuring they follow local coronavirus guidelines, corps also need to make an even greater effort to form relationships with students moving to their area. When we are going through times of transition we all need extra support.

For those students who consider The Salvation Army their home church, corps fellowships may be the safe haven they require.

Thousands of other students are also leaving home for the first time. Wouldn’t it be great if they too were able to see The Salvation Army as a place where they can belong? Perhaps one way in is through the volunteering needs of a corps.

Reaching out to a nearby university to see if any students want to support in that way could encourage them to link up.

If corps are looking for resources to support students, these three are recommended:

STUDENT LINKUP Organised by a Christian organisation called Fusion, this is a great way to bring students and corps/churches together.

O Corps can register at fusionmovement.org/churches.

Students can search for corps at fusionmovement.org/ students

THE STUDENT LINKUP BOX This resource includes four sessions on starting university, an A–Z guide on life at university and more.

O The Student Linkup Box is available from divisional youth specialists or the Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit by emailing youthchildren@salvationarmy.org.uk O Go to fusionmovement.org/box for more information

SALVO STUDENTS Produced by Alove some years ago for students attending university, it is still relevant and worth any prospective student reading.

O Go to salvationarmy.org.uk/youth-and-children/ youth-resources Salvationist 10 October 2020

15

BIBLE STUDY

False religion is worthless Major Nick Coke reminds us that faith is not a spectator sport

JEREMIAH 7:11, 21–26

M

Y grandfather played tennis to a high level. Family legend has it that he once beat Fred Perry in a game of doubles. When I was a child, although it was always wonderful to see him, there was one thing my brother, sister and I dreaded – the tennis coaching.

Once he had a racket in hand this impeccably mild-mannered man turned quite intimidating. He lined us up on the court, fired balls over the net and expected us to return them. Nine times out of ten we failed miserably. Clearly, we had not inherited his tennis-playing genes. After an hour or so, frustration would get the better of him and we’d be sent home with the sound of ‘pay attention’, ‘please stay focused’ and ‘keep your eye on the ball’ ringing in our ears. It was a chastening experience.

As we read these verses from

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

by Major Melvyn Knott

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

Jeremiah, it is easy to hear frustration in the voice of God, as imagined by the prophet. The people of Israel have not been paying attention and their eyes have wandered well and truly off the ball.

QUESTION O Think of a time when someone neglected to listen to your instructions.

What happened, how did it make you feel and why?

Jeremiah’s prophecy comes at a critical time for the southern kingdom of Judah. Its rulers have become so enamoured with their own abilities and ways of life that they are consistently failing to recognise how far they have come from God’s way of doing things.

Time and again, God sent his prophets to call the nation to listen, pay attention and obey his instructions (see v23–26) but they paid no heed. Jeremiah warns that there will be consequences.

Historically speaking, with hindsight, we know what this means – the days of Judah’s self-autonomy are numbered.

The Babylonians are gathering at the borders, poised to invade.

What kept Judah’s leaders from seeing and hearing what God really wanted of them? It appears that self-righteousness and empty religion were blinding them to the truth. They believed that Temple offerings and sacrifices were enough (see v21). They stubbornly did only what they thought was right in their own eyes and lived on past glories. As long as they went through the motions of daily ritual and worship that had been passed down by their forebears, they reasoned all would be fine. In other words, as long as they sang the right songs, wore the right clothes and remembered to order their worship in the right way, they thought all was as it should be.

This way of thinking is as old as

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

(1 John 1:6 and 7)

O how happy are they who the Saviour obey/ And have laid up their treasure above./ Tongue can never express the sweet comfort and peace/ Of a soul filled with Jesus’ love.

(SASB 267)

No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.

(Psalm 25:3 and 4)

Prayer Jesus, you are the firm foundation on which I build my life. Help me to remember that you will never leave me or forsake me. I pray that I will continue to be as faithful to you as you are to me.

religion itself. The prophet looking in from the outside, however, recognises that this is simply not enough.

QUESTIONS O What are the potential consequences for individual Christians and the wider Church of neglecting to pay attention to God’s voice?

O What does worthless religion look like to you?

Old Testament scholars refer to Jeremiah 7 as the ‘Temple Sermon’ because the prophet is called by God to deliver his prophecy at the gates of the Temple in Jerusalem. This is the most important place in the land, built by King Solomon centuries earlier and home to the presence of God in the Holy of Holies. The symbolism is clear – there is a sickness at the very heart of the worshipping community.

Jeremiah delivers a line that might

sound familiar: ‘Has this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your sight?’ (v11 New American Standard Bible).

We might recognise the words as coming from Jesus at the beginning of Holy Week (see Matthew 21:13 and Luke 19:46). On that occasion, Jesus drove traders from the Temple grounds for engaging in unjust practices in the central place of faith and worship.

Clearly, it is not only Jeremiah’s generation but also future generations that need to hear the same message – ‘pay attention’, ‘obey me’, ‘walk in all the ways I command you’.

Religion that does not involve the whole of our lives – head, heart and hands – and does not include justice and righteousness is religion that is missing the point (see Amos 5:24).

God does not want a show of worship.

He wants a deep-rooted, everyday faith that embraces our entirety. He is not so

interested in past glories as our willingness to walk with him into the future. He does not want complacent self-righteousness. He wants a people who pay attention, listen to his voice and faithfully live his way.

QUESTIONS O What does a living faith look like to you?

O What spiritual practices and disciplines enable you to hear God’s voice and walk in his ways?

O What examples can you give of justice and righteousness working together?

MAJOR COKE IS CORPS OFFICER, RAYNES PARK, AND TERRITORIAL REFUGEE RESPONSE CO-ORDINATOR

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

O Lord, how often should we be/ Defeated, were it not for thee;/ Cast down, but for thy grace!/ When all the arts of Hell oppose,/ We find a refuge from our foes/ Within the holy place.

(SASB 268)

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old.

(Psalm 25:5 and 6)

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,/ Spread his praise from shore to shore;/ How he loveth, ever loveth,/ Changeth never, nevermore;/ How he watcheth o’er his loved ones,/ Died to call them all his own;/ How for them he intercedeth,/ Watcheth o’er them from the throne.

(SASB 269)

From the ends of the Earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.

(Psalm 61:2 and 3)

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REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON N REFLECTION

JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY Major Jim Bryden begins a three-part series exploring what it means to follow Jesus ‘Then Jesus said to his followers, “If any of you want to be my follower, you must stop thinking about yourself and what you want. You must be willing to carry the cross that is given to you for following me”’ (Matthew 16:24 Easy-To-Read Version)

F

OR all people, life is a journey of discovery about who they are. The ancient Greek maxim ‘know thyself’ was based on the assumption that the better we know ourselves, the better we understand other people. However, the most wonderful reality in the world is knowing Jesus! When we know him, we truly know ourselves and can best relate to others.

The disciples made the most incredible journey of discovery about themselves and their master. Crowds came to see and hear this captivating young rabbi.

They had either heard about or witnessed his miracles of healing broken bodies, scarred minds and darkened souls.

The man from Nazareth said to certain fishermen: ‘Come, follow me... and I will send you out to fish for people’ (Matthew 4:19). They would learn that following and fishing were no picnic. Jesus told

Pan’s grotto, Caesarea Philippi 18

Salvationist 10 October 2020

them: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me’ (Matthew 16:24).

He was talking about sacrifice and service.

Following Jesus is not about having our way or satisfying personal ambition.

It’s a tall order, but it means living our best, God-pleasing life. It means giving up our search for prestige and recognition and, instead – as an old chorus says – putting ‘Jesus first, yourself last and others in between’.

The meeting between Jesus and his disciples took place at Caesarea Philippi near the base of Mount Hermon. This was Gentile territory, where history and culture were steeped in pagan worship of Baal and the Greek god Pan. The secure sunshine of Galilean ministry was now eclipsed by the clouds of uncertainty in what lay ahead. The wind of change was blowing. The shadows were gathering.

Calvary’s course was set. Jesus was ready – but were the disciples?

Jesus needed to know if they had grasped his true identity. He often referred to himself as the Son of Man, a term they would be familiar with (see Daniel 7:13 and 14). So he asked the starter question: ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ (Matthew 16:13). The disciples told Jesus that public opinion regarded him as one of the greats come back to life: John the Baptist, Elijah or Jeremiah.

What question in the world matters more than any other? Is it about politics, philosophy or science? Does it relate to the origin of humankind and the world in which we live? I would suggest it is quite simply: ‘Who is Jesus?’

No one outside God’s enabling power possesses the capacity to understand, let alone know, the true and unique

divinity of Christ. At best they may applaud him as a Gandhi, a Martin Luther King, a Mother Teresa, a prophet – but that’s as far as it goes. Why is this?

Again, we find the answer from Jesus’ own lips in response to Peter’s recognition that he was ‘the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the living God’ (v16 The Message). Jesus said: ‘God bless you, Simon, son of Jonah! You didn’t get that answer out of books or from teachers. My Father in Heaven, God himself, let you in on this secret of who I really am’ (v17 MSG).

In 1972 I arrived in Peru with my wife, Helen, and our two small children, David and Sheron. We were there on international service for The Salvation Army. The place felt new and strange.

On that first night, tucking our frightened infant daughter into bed, her mother whispered reassuringly: ‘Don’t be frightened, darling. The Lord Jesus is here.’ Eyes bright and blazing, little Sheron clung to her mum and cried out: ‘But Mummy, I’d rather have someone with skin on!’

On that day at Caesarea Philippi, Peter knew that Jesus was God with skin on.

Our journey of discovery now moves from public perception to private insight – up close and personal. As he asked Peter, so Jesus asks you and me how we see him.

MAJOR BRYDEN LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BELLSHILL

Poets’ corner We thank you, Lord For when we are able to return to our places of worship and sing. Can be sung to the tune ‘Aurelia’.

We thank you, Lord, for mercies, For your unfailing love; For bringing us to worship, We praise you, Lord above.

For being by our side, Lord, When things were growing dim, To bring us into light, Lord, Your Church, we enter in.

We thank you for your blessings That helped us every day, For all the lovely sunshine That lit our darkest way, And for our friends and neighbours Who took the time to care, We thank them for their friendship, Their help and words of prayer.

We pray for all the families Who lost their dearest ones.

We bring them to you, Lord – Fathers, mothers, daughters, sons.

May you bring all the comfort They need to feel just now, So they will know you love them, And give them hope, somehow.

We bring to you, dear Father, The people who gave care To all the sick and dying, Who worked to end despair.

For all the brave key workers; They laboured, though afraid.

We thank them all so much, Lord, Whatever role they played.

And now, Lord, to the future, We turn to you in prayer.

May all the world unite, Lord, And know your loving care.

May this time be a new start, To bring us close to you, Together now, forever, In peace, your love renewed.

MARK AYLING (EASTBOURNE CITADEL)

Fill me with your Spirit, Lord Fill me with your Spirit, Lord, Fill me with your love.

Fill this empty heart of mine, Come down gentle dove.

You see all my self-concern, Lovelessness and pride; Help me open up my heart, Place your love inside.

Fill me with your Spirit, Lord, Fill me with your joy.

Give to me that happiness Nothing can destroy.

Even when my sufferings Point me to despair, May I know that joy inside Just because you’re there.

Fill me with your Spirit, Lord, Fill me with your power.

Give to me your source of strength, From this very hour.

You have seen me trying hard, Failing every time, Show me how to let you now, Live your life in mine.

Fill me with your Spirit, Lord, Fill me with your peace, Quieten all the turbulence, Bid my struggles cease.

Often my anxieties, Fill my life with stress, Show me how to let them go, Give to me your rest.

MAJOR HOWARD WEBBER

Sometimes I wonder All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.

But who am I to question The wonder of God’s skill?

My mind’s too small to grasp it, To comprehend his will.

Though sometimes I do wonder When I see the things that crawl, Those earwigs and the woodlice, Why were they made at all?

I can just gaze in wonder At all he did create, The mystery of nature, My God he is so great.

Annoying flies in summer, Those wasps with nasty stings, And rats that haunt the sewers, Why did he make those things?

Those little creepy crawlies, All part of his great plan, Might also look and wonder Why ever he made man.

The grubs we find in apples, Big sharks that roam the seas, There seems to be no reason Why God would make all these.

BRIAN COLLEY (CLOWNE)

Salvationist 10 October 2020

19

NEW COMMITMENTS

PETERSFIELD Before her transfer to Tenby, corps officer Captain Linda Read enrolled Angela Gover, Rita Perry and Christine Scott as soldiers. They were prayed for by CSM Steve Field. Pictured with the new soldiers are CS Brian Edwards and CT Carole Noon. – RF

GUERNSEY Shirley Leivars was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officers Majors Claire and Jamie Hill. She first linked up with the corps on Christmas Day 2018. Having received a friendly welcome and encouragement to know Jesus as her Saviour, she attends as often as she can. – JH HAWICK Billy Killey was welcomed as an adherent member during Sunday worship.

He linked up with the corps as a youngster and began attending again a few years ago after receiving an invitation to Back to Church Sunday. Billy found great support and comfort at the corps after the recent promotion to Glory of his wife, Elaine. His enrolment was carried out under the Scottish government’s guidelines for the reopening of places of worship and followed strict social distancing measures. – CP-B

CWM Corps officer Captain Karen Symonds enrolled Diane Russell as a soldier, observing social distancing. The enrolment was streamed on Zoom. – PC 20

Salvationist 10 October 2020

IN DARKEST ENGLAND 130 YEARS ON

Look back at the Founder’s legacy Look forward to the Movement’s future

In 1890 General William Booth published his ambitious plan to reform social and welfare services: In Darkest England And The Way Out. Booth’s remarkable manifesto set out ideas on how to tackle homelessness, offer training for people who were unemployed, support alcoholics and minister to former prisoners. These founding pillars of The Salvation Army’s social work endure to this day.

To celebrate this transformative text, Shield Books is delighted to introduce In Darkest England: 130 Years On. A riveting read for any Salvationist or supporter: reflections on In Darkest England’s revolutionary ideas O Delve into essays, poetry, testimonies and historical articles from all over the world O Follow the Army’s development from early outreach to modern ministry O Gain unique insight into how the Army operates today O Hear from those on the front line fighting homelessness, unemployment, addiction and human trafficking O Explore the role of Booth’s faith in founding the Army’s social work and the theology behind his book O Read

Available early October priced £8 (plus postage and packing) Order from sps-shop.com or call 01933 445 445 Also available as an ebook from amazon.co.uk priced £7

Salvationist 3 October 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

WHAT’S ON

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Blue Sapphire (65th) O Songster Evette and Phil Edwards, Upper Norwood (15 October) Golden O CSM Norman and Sue Lockyer, Pokesdown (24 October)

THE HISTORY OF THE ISB For more than 50 years, Roger Herbert has been a loyal supporter of the International Staff Band (ISB). No stranger to the radio, he produces a weekly show and is a regular football commentator. Now he has prepared a six-part series on the history of the ISB for Fortress Radio, with special programmes on Bernard Adams, Ray Bowes, Robert Redhead and current bandmaster Stephen Cobb. Episodes are broadcast at noon and 7 pm on Sundays, starting from 4 October, and are repeated on Fridays at 8 pm.

O Listen to new episodes live at fortressradio.online or catch up through the Fortress Podcast on fortresspodcast.podomatic.com

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Aux-Captain Lilian Phillips (90 on 17 October) O Major Estelle Clack (80 on 17 October) O Aux-Captain Margaret Siviter (85 on 18 October) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Joyce Houldridge, Hull Icehouse O Joyce Fisher, Doncaster O Rtd BM Oliver Allen, Reading West, on 7 September O Jean Versey, Felixstowe BEREAVED O Songster Carol Saxton, Burton-onTrent, of her daughter O Major Paul Fisher of his mother Joyce Fisher O Robert Versey, Felixstowe, of his wife Jean, Michelle Holden, Stowmarket, of her mother OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 October O Major Elizabeth Church out of Oxford in 1980 and last appointment Chaplain, Westminster Homelessness Project, London O Commissioner William Cochrane out of Barrhead in 1975 and last appointment IHQ O Captain Richard Reynolds out of Stratford upon Avon in 2009 and last appointment Bromsgrove ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander 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

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Salvationist 10 October 2020

TRIBUTES MAJOR GILLIAN STACEY GILL was born in Leeds in 1961 when her parents were the corps officers at Knottingley.

She travelled with them to various appointments and finished her education, qualifying as a nursery nurse while at Stapleford. She actively soldiered there until entering the International Training College in 1985 as a member of the Messengers of Peace session.

Her first appointment was at Ryde, followed by Petersfield and Hadleigh.

In 1993 she undertook a period of international service in the Caribbean Territory.

Upon her return to the UK in 1999 Gill was appointed to social services, first to Marshfield community home and then Strawberry Field children’s home. Corps appointments followed at Coedpoeth and Chester.

Gill’s final years of ministry were spent in chaplaincy roles at Shepherd’s Green House Lifehouse and Vale Street Lifehouse until she was called Home after a long and challenging illness.

Gill was a people’s person, ministering to, caring for and visiting those entrusted to her. Her influence extended beyond The Salvation Army; messages have been received tellling of her beautiful Christian influence on countless lives.

Family members, friends and many others cannot speak highly enough about the influence she had on them; they loved her and she loved them.

Gill’s niece Hannah wrote: ‘If you knew Gill you will know that she gave her life and her all to serve others in lots of different contexts. She was consistent in the confession and application of her faith and was the definition of integral love. I hope we can continue on living out her legacy. ‘See you in Paradise you beautiful and brave soul. We love you so much. We are thankful for being gifted with such a woman of God.’ – JS KEVIN LOFTUS, EASTBOURNE CITADEL AT the age of 14, Kevin and his brother moved from Darlington to Eastbourne, where they settled with their adoptive parents, Ernie and Elsie. Kevin had a happy life and joined the Army band and songsters, which remained part of his life until the end.

He met and married Marjorie, also from Darlington, and, with her daughter Alison, became a family man. Kevin and Marjorie had two children, Andrew and Stacey.

Kevin was passionate about his faith, and gave emotional testimonies and devotions at practices, proving that he loved his Lord and was not afraid to show it. After being diagnosed with his illness, he carried on encouraging people and would not let it get him down.

He was proud to be a grandad to Mia-Rose and Amelia, and the corps is proud to have known this humble and faithful soldier. – CB

Did you know Salvationist is now online?

WE UPDATE SALVATIONARMY. ORG.UK/PUBLICATIONS WEEKLY, GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO O Read through the latest issue from 3 pm on Thursdays O Catch up on news you missed O Read the Editor’s comment and our article of the week O Share archived issues

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Salvationist

10 October 2020 23

‘‘ All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army.

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

SONGSTER LEADER GLYNIS BROMAGE Dundee How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I was born into a Salvationist family who attended Springburn.

What made you want to become a soldier?

I grew up in the junior corps and enjoyed corps cadets and youth activities, so it seemed a logical step.

Besides that, I wanted to wear a bonnet.

What was your day job before retirement?

I was a secondary school music teacher.

What was the most interesting thing about your job – and the most frustrating?

The most interesting was encouraging pupils to appreciate and enjoy performing early and classical music when their only experience had been pop music. The most frustrating was trying to motivate some pupils to stay after school to practise for exams.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

It’s more about what I wouldn’t change; we’re losing so much of our uniqueness and becoming too much like many other churches.

If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play?

Maria in The Sound Of Music.

Apart from English, what languages do you speak?

I can get by in Spanish and French.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord, the maker of Heaven and Earth

(Psalm 121:1 and 2)

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

Johann Sebastian Bach or Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, to show how composing would have been quicker and easier using technology. They would have been able to compose even more music.

If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be?

Do something good every day and try not to get found out.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?

Patience.

’’

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

Selfishness. There are so many people in the world who think only of themselves.

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

My husband, Roger. He’s my best friend and we’ve been married for almost 46 years. It would probably be unfair for someone else to have to listen to me chatter for a whole day.

If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be?

‘When You’re Smiling’ by Louis Armstrong.

What do you do in your spare time?

Musical activities, such as playing piano, leading choirs and taking music into care homes. During the lockdown I have done lots of gardening and sewing.

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

Life is not a rehearsal. Make every day count.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

Scarlet Ribbons, a 45rpm single by Harry Belafonte. My dad used to sing it to me.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My family and old family photos. All material goods can be replaced.

What is your favourite Bible passage?

Psalm 121. We live in Scotland, the land of hills and mountains. Either from a hilltop or looking to the hills and mountains, one cannot fail to be amazed at God’s creation.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I have perfect pitch.

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

I’d like to ask Noah’s wife how she coped with the housework with all those animals living under her roof!

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘As The Deer’ by Martin J Nystrom, and I particularly love verse three of ‘And Can It Be?’ (SASB 241).