Salvationist 11 January 2020

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www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 11 January 2020

Singing with a mISSion International Staff Songsters celebrate 40 years

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

MAKE YOUR RESOLUTIONS ‘HEROIC’ The Archbishop of Canterbury has urged Christians to take up a ‘heroic’ New Year resolution and ‘resolve to reconnect’ with lost friends or family…

In his New Year message, broadcast on BBC One… Archbishop Welby praised the 70 volunteers involved with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in Dover, in Canterbury diocese, whom he described as a family.

‘When their pagers go off – day or night – they’re prepared to risk everything to rescue whoever needs their help,’ he said. ‘There are so many ways we can connect with others…’

He continued: ‘Christian faith doesn’t promise us a comfortable life. Christ promises us hope, meaning, peace, purpose, and joy – but not comfort.

‘It’s about following in the footsteps of Jesus, who took the risk of connecting with people who were separated from him.

‘We rightly think of lifeboat crews as heroic… Yet every time we reach out and connect with someone, it is an act of heroism.

Don’t underestimate it. It could be someone you know… It could be someone you really disagree with.

‘Let’s go for a heroic New Year’s resolution. Let’s resolve to reconnect. To reach out to just one person we don’t know, or from whom we have drifted apart.’

Church Times

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 11 January 2020

LEADERS HIGHLIGHT PERSECUTION AND CALL FOR RECONCILIATION

RETHINK URGED ON SCRAPPING OF CHILD REFUGEE SCHEME

The prime minister, Boris Johnson, and the Prince of Wales highlighted the plight of persecuted Christians in their Christmas messages, while church leaders in their homilies urged Christians to be agents of reconciliation in a divided culture.

In a video message for Aid to the Church in Need, Prince Charles said: ‘As we mark this holiest of seasons… may I assure those of you who carry the cross of suffering today that you are in my most special thoughts and heartfelt prayers…’

His comments were echoed in a video message… by the prime minister, who said: ‘Today of all days, I want us to remember those Christians around the world who are facing persecution… We stand with Christians everywhere… and will defend your right to practise your faith.’

Charities have spoken out against the government’s apparent scrapping of the Dubs amendment, which sought to reunite child refugees stranded in Europe with their families in the UK… Lord Alf Dubs, a Labour peer who was among those children who found safety from persecution by the Nazis after arriving in Britain on the Kindertransport, said he was ‘bitterly disappointed and angry’ after the amendment was watered down...

John Pontifex, head of press and information at Aid to the Church in Need (UK), told The Tablet: ‘… Seeing the situation on the ground in places like the Middle East where huge numbers of people are fleeing persecution, there is an urgent need to ensure robust legal protection for unaccompanied children and other young people arriving in Europe.’

The Tablet

The Tablet

LEVELS OF CHILD CRIMINAL EXPLOITATION ‘ALMOST BACK TO VICTORIAN TIMES’ The criminal exploitation of children is at its highest level in modern times as gangs capitalise on a lack of youth facilities and school exclusions to groom children, a police chief has revealed.

Chief constable Shaun Sawyer… is the national police lead for modern slavery and human trafficking and he said [the number of] exploited children were ‘almost back to Victorian times’…

He said that while in previous years, sexual exploitation or labour exploitation were the biggest reasons to class someone as a modern slave, it was now criminal exploitation driven by drug gangs...

Under county lines youngsters are groomed by urban gangs operating phone lines for customers to buy drugs, and travel to take supplies up and down the country, and deal them.

The Guardian

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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

DAYLIGHTING

Quotes from the media

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News

4 to 9

Preview 9 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

JUST before Christmas I heard a fascinating radio discussion about the impact of water on our communities. It took place soon after flooding had forced many people across the country to leave their homes, so the main focus was on flood prevention and how vulnerable areas can be protected. There was also discussion about the erosion of our coastlines, which is set to increase in the coming years.

As well as these important and worrying topics, something else in the discussion caught my attention: Britain’s hidden rivers.

Apparently the Victorians covered over many of the rivers in our towns and cities, hiding them in culverts to mask what had become foul-smelling sewers and outlets for industrial waste. An environmental engineer explained how some of these are now being ‘daylighted’. They are being uncovered – brought into the daylight – and renewed to bring social and environmental benefits to nearby communities. In Sheffield, for example, part of the underground Porter Brook has been daylighted.

What had been a hidden ‘dead’ stream now has wild trout spawning in the spring and green banks where people can picnic.

It reminded me of the story in Genesis where ‘Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the time of his father Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up’ (26:18). In a land where water was scarce Isaac was able to find what he needed in the places that had been dug before. It was a case of uncovering what had been lost and renewing its purpose.

That was perhaps the thought behind the inauguration of the International Staff Songsters 40 years ago. As far back as 1892 a vocal group comprising staff from International Headquarters began weekend visits to corps. Five years later the International Staff Songsters were officially established to ‘spread salvation news’.

The group came to an end in 1928 but a new ISS was brought into being in 1980.

On pages 12 and 13 Ruth Unwin, a founding member of the revived ISS, looks back at their inaugural event and the impact they have had since. ‘To point the way to Jesus is why the Staff Songsters are still in existence after 40 years,’ she writes. Her reflections, and the experiences of the thousands who have received their ministry, show that going back to the old wells and daylighting the ISS was an inspired move.

Another idea that was part of the early Salvation Army is uncovered by Samantha Calvert on pages 10 and 11. Members of the Booth family practised and recommended vegetarianism, and it was on the menu at some social service institutions. With veganism on the rise, and with a growing range of food from non-animal sources becoming available, it may be timely to take another look at this part of our history and see what it says to us today.

Even if not every practice from the past is worth recovering, many of their underlying principles have value and could be reconsidered and applied in a fresh way.

So, what old wells might be worth daylighting in our personal lives and in the mission and ministry of our corps and centres? Feel free to write in and tell us.

by Bob Fyffe

Feature 10 and 11 Examining a vegetarian legacy

by Samantha Calvert

Feature 12 and 13 Pointing the way to Jesus

by Ruth Unwin

Column from the college 14 A united family of the ‘whosoever’

by Cadet Kit Mayston-King

Reviews Boundaries For Your Soul

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reviewed by Major Zach Bell

Second Helpings reviewed by Major Susan Robinson

Bible study Infinitely more

16 and 17

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Philippa Smale

New commitments

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Letters

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Announcements

20 and 21

Adverts

21 to 23

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring Major Geoff Ashdown

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

Salvationist 11 January 2020

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NEWS

MAIDENHEAD: The children’s carol service was led by Sparkle (corps officer Major John Mclean) and Shine (YPSM Rob Molloy), two stars from the first Christmas night.

The YP sections participated, and many people dressed as characters from the Nativity story.

A great time was had by all. – J. M. ABERTILLERY: A Christmas concert raised £500 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Divisional Chaplain to Welsh Assembly Members Major David Emery compèred a programme, which featured Abertillery Town Band and Training Band, 16-year-old Nia Roles, who sang a selection of operatic arias, and spoons played by Major Cora-Joy Tucker. A number of dignitaries also attended. Corps officer Major David Wise is pictured handing the cheque to Janie Hughes, a representative of the charity. – A. B. Forties-style singers the Candy Bars take part in Ipswich Citadel’s Christmas concert; the event raised more than £265 for the corps Christmas Day lunch

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

Fauldhouse corps assistant Alan Bellshaw presents Robin Campbell with a long-service certificate for 50 years of banding

NORWICH MILE CROSS: A Christmas craft fayre raised more than £600 for the Big Collection. People who would not usually attend worship services visited and filled the building. Chloe Smith, MP, also visited and took the time to see Father Christmas (Adrian Lee) in his grotto. – P. R. 4

Salvationist 11 January 2020

BRIGHOUSE: Major Ernie Huby played traditional Christmas carols on his hand-built street organ outside the hall, enticing people to come into the building and encouraging many donations. The tunes were well received, cheering people up on a windy day. – G. O.

READING CENTRAL: Fifty volunteers from the corps, nearby businesses and Festival Republic helped pack Christmas food hampers for people in need. The number of hampers packed increased to 829, enough to provide more than 4,000 people with necessities for a festive Christmas lunch. The corps worked with social services, schools and health workers to ensure the hampers supported underprivileged individuals and families who find Christmas a difficult time. The costs were covered by donations from the public and businesses in the area as well as the band’s carolling efforts. – R. W.

Snettisham corps folk lead a carol service at Hanover Court sheltered housing complex in Dersingham; residents collected food and toys for the Army’s Toys and Tins Appeal in Norfolk

BRISTOL SOUTH: The corps opened its doors to the community for the first time after relocating from Bristol Bedminster.

Fifty-six families and nearby residents attended a craft morning and many positive conversations took place. The event allowed corps folk to build relationships and gain a greater understanding of the community’s needs. – S. C.

A number of first-time visitors attend a relaxed Christmas Community Brunch meeting at Reading Central, with tea, coffee and pastries before worship; everyone was invited to wear Christmas jumpers

KIRKCALDY: Nearly 200 people attended the corps community carol service held at Kirkcaldy High School. The corps sections took part, as well as the newly formed high school choir, Kirkcaldy North Primary School and soloist Julie Taylor. More than £600 was raised for Rachel House Children’s Hospice. Kirkcaldy Central councillor Judy Hamilton presented a cheque to Margaret Langlands. – D. A.

Cowdenbeath Messy Church plays, eats, enjoys crafts and shares the Christmas story

CLOWNE: New and returning families were welcomed to Messy Christmas, which included the creation of a pool noodle donkey, a bourbon biscuit manger cupcake and a handprint angel. Corps members joined them for a Christmas celebration, which featured a Nativity scene themed With Love From God To You. Combined, the music sections and congregation resulted in more than 100 attendees for worship. Later, everyone enjoyed a buffet. – G. H. Salvationist 11 January 2020

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NEWS

Army stresses need for action on homelessness and social care THQ THE Salvation Army has highlighted the need for action on homelessness and social care following the Queen’s speech at the state opening of parliament.

‘Sadly, the priorities outlined in the Queen’s speech make clear that the government will not be able to deliver on key manifesto pledges on homelessness and adult social care,’ said Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant.

‘This inaction will have devastating consequences for the most vulnerable in our society.’

The Army is calling for 90,000 more lowcost homes for social rent to be built every year, and an increase in the value of the local housing allowance so that 3 in every 10 rented homes are affordable to people on benefits and low incomes.

‘We very much welcomed the Conservative manifesto pledge to “end the blight of rough sleeping by the end of the next parliament” but the government are setting off on the wrong course to achieve that,’ Lieut-Colonel Dean continued.

In the past decade, rough sleeping has increased by 165 per cent. Supported housing, such as the Army’s Lifehouses, provides shelter but also gives access to health and addiction help and other essential supportive services. The Army is campaigning for a new, targeted programme of investment for local authorities to design and deliver local solutions to homelessness and rough sleeping, including support for those with addictions to prevent drug-related deaths, as well as more investment in supported housing.

The Army also highlighted the urgency of the promised cross-party consultation on how to tackle the adult social care crisis.

‘More investment in adult social care is praiseworthy, but it is clear an additional £1 billion per year is not enough to fix a system that is in crisis,’ added Lieut-Colonel Dean.

He concluded by expressing the Army’s disappointment that the government ‘has not addressed the child poverty and destitution and desolation that universal credit continues to cause’.

‘We have said time and again that the fiveweek wait for people’s first payment is too long,’ Lieut-Colonel Dean explained. ‘It causes great financial strain for the people we support.’ – A. R. 6

Salvationist 11 January 2020

Carols, readings, prayers and testimonies are shared, along with a festive quiz and sweets, at the Harold Hill Christmas walking service

CASTLEFORD: Looking to support people experiencing homelessness, two children from a local family, Annabel, aged 11, and Isaac, aged 5, experienced the difficulties of sleeping rough during a sponsored sleep out. They raised £263 through family and friends and presented the amount as a donation during the carol concert. The congregation added to the total, bringing it to more than £430. The applause the children received was rapturous, and a service user from the soup kitchen got down on his knees to thank them on behalf of everyone who will benefit from their generous hearts. – J. B.

A quiz at Hereford raises funds for work with people who are vulnerable

UPPER NORWOOD: The mayor of Croydon, Councillor Humayun Kabir, opened the 2019 Christmas fayre. The mayor thanked the corps for their fundraising activities, which raised nearly £2,500. Some of the money went towards providing toys for children in need in the community, to be delivered by volunteers and several organisations. – R. C.

BOSCOMBE: The Rev Charles Stewart began the annual Boscombe Band and Timbrelists carol concert at Christchurch Priory by asking: ‘When does Christmas begin?’ Band Sergeant Craig Snell (cornet) played ‘Candlelight Carol’ before corps officer Major David Alton prayed God’s blessing upon the proceedings. Later, Major David spoke on the juxtaposition of politics and the Nativity. The congregation gave full voice to the closing carol, ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’. – R. C.

Inspired to take the message to the people GLOUCESTER TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill led the 140th corps anniversary, which began with the band splitting to play at both SATCoL charity shops in the city.

An evening festival featured the music sections and a message from the TC, encouraging listeners to take the message to the people of Gloucester. The commissioners also led the Sunday meetings with the TC answering searching questions from young people on topics

Yavana Choir, who use Loughborough hall, raised £374 through a Christmas concert to help fund instruments, music folders and a banner for the Singing

by Heart group

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including the environment and the future of the Army.

The TC cut a wonderful cake, made by Eric Freeman, with No 1 on the roll Rene Thomas.

They are pictured with corps

officer Major Gareth Heward, Commissioner Gill, youngest on the cradle roll Madeline Rouffet, Lorna Rouffet, Major Susan Heward and divisional leaders Majors Ian and Jean Harris. – A. B.

Firefighters help with sorting toys at Blackpool Citadel in return for the help they receive from the emergency response team

Music for a Christmas evening BELLSHILL THE band presented its annual Music for a Christmas Evening programme to a capacity congregation, with items including ‘Carol Of The Bells’, ‘Winter’s Snow’, ‘French Christmas’ and ‘A Christmas Finale’. Soloists YP Band Leader Chris Shanks (euphonium), Marjory Watson (vocal) and Daniel McMillan (vocal) presented ‘In Gardens Of Peace’, ‘Saviour’s Day’ and ‘When Love Was Born’ respectively, and the congregation enjoyed the opportunity to join the band in a number of carols.

The concert raised more than £860 for Brothers in Arms, Scotland’s first mental health charity for men. Bandmaster Yvonne Ferguson presented a cheque to Kieran and Kris, who spoke movingly of their personal experiences and the charity’s work. – M. S.

Sleaford corps folk bring toys during gift meetings to be given out by Rainbow Stars, an agency working with children and young adults with disabilities Salvationist 11 January 2020

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NEWS

NORWICH MILE CROSS: Former Tiverton soldiers Myra and Peter Woods presented corps officer Major Paul Robinson with £1,000 for the Christmas appeal.

The funds were raised through their new book, Christmas Then And Now, which comprises photos and stories based on their travels. The couple now worship at Corton Methodist Church but have a deep ongoing relationship with the Army. They hope the book portrays the real meaning of Christmas. – P. W./P. R. O A copy of Christmas Then And Now can be requested by emailing arestos@btinternet.com with a suggested donation of £10

DUNSTABLE: Corps folk once again donated to an overseas project organised by Major Laina Geleit instead of sending Christmas cards to each other.

More than £1,200 will go towards the Army’s work in Malawi to provide decent handwashing facilities and toilets in schools, enabling pupils to spend more time in class. The amount raised should provide four units of each. These facilities are known to have a significant positive impact on health. – S. B.

SALE: Two community carol and toy services included a panto-style Nativity play, called A Lad In A Manger, which was full of fun, laughter and audience participation. Despite the drama and excitement the Christmas story was still well portrayed.

The mayor of Trafford, Councillor Rob Chilton, was a guest. The afternoon performance featured corps children and the Baby Song group, who use the hall. Wellfield Junior School choir sang in the evening performance. Corps officer Major Ann Montgomery spoke about finding Jesus, inviting the congregation to bring their gifts.

Once again, the community’s response was amazing. – E. Y.

LOUGHBOROUGH: While collecting for the annual appeal, David Pocock met Doreen Lennox, who had not attended the corps for many years. Because of that conversation, Doreen attended a Sunday morning meeting and presented £1,000 towards the corps community work on behalf of Rotary International. Doreen is pictured with corps officer Major Marta Ager and long-lost friends. – M. A. 8

Salvationist 11 January 2020

BURTON-ON-TRENT: The luncheon club and Evergreen meeting were extended into a Christmas fun day. Members engaged in crafts before a seasonal quiz. Handbell ringers from Alrewas provided entertainment and everyone participated in the carols. The next Sunday, a good number attended Christmas Messy Church and the Christingle service. – K. A.

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LEEDS CENTRAL: The community carol services were themed 12 Days Of Christmas and included guest soloists Bethany Furlong (vocal) on Saturday and Hannah Dilworth (flute) on Sunday.

Members of the congregation donated toys, and the lord mayor of Leeds, Councillor Eileen Taylor, attended on Sunday. Other items included a barbershop-style quartet, a dance by the African Fellowship group, kazoos and the opportunity for 12 people to try their hand at drumming. – M. B.

PREVIEW

UNUSUAL KINDNESS Bob Fyffe, general secretary of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, introduces the 2020 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18–25 January) URING the Week of Prayer for

D

Christian Unity we join with the worldwide Church to pray for the unity of all Christians, so that the world might be transformed by our shared Christian witness.

The theme for 2020 comes from the churches of Malta, for whom the Bible has a special relevance because the gospel first came to Malta in the events that are told in the Acts of the Apostles, when Paul and those with him encountered ‘unusual kindness’ (Acts 28:2) from the inhabitants.

Many people in Britain and Ireland will have visited Malta on holiday and seen the place where these events are thought to have taken place. This is a reminder that Christianity is not merely a spiritual belief but a faith rooted in events in human history. The unity for which we pray therefore serves to make Christ known in the world.

The churches of Malta have drawn on the account of Paul’s shipwreck on the island and his journey to Rome where he would face trial and execution. This vivid story takes us through the fear of his fellow prisoners and captors in the midst of a violent storm to their experience of hospitality offered by the people of Malta after they were shipwrecked.

Through the worship service and resources for the eight days of the Week of Prayer we

are invited to reflect on how the call to unity comes in the context of a turbulent world, and how we are called to be on a journey with one another, in spite of the things that divide us, perplex us, make us uncomfortable with one another or create barriers between us.

We are called to exercise ‘unusual kindness’ to one another because in doing so we learn how to show it to all people, whatever their faith, race or social circumstances.

O Resources

for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity are free to download from ctbi.org.uk/weekofprayer

O This article first appeared in CTBI magazine

ANGUS: Bellshill Band witnessed to more than 1,000 people in its 21st annual Christmas visit to the Scottish county. Soloists Daniel McMillan (vocal), Marjory Watson (vocal), YP Band Leader Chris Shanks (euphonium) and Deputy Songster Leader Lynn Shanks (flugelhorn) presented items in Kirriemuir Old Parish church and Lowson Memorial Parish church, and the congregations enjoyed opportunities to sing carols. Corps Mission Secretary Allan Scott and Band Sergeant David Kendall delivered thoughtful Christmas messages during each service. This annual ministry, which included open-air meetings at a hospital and hospice, has now raised more than £42,000 for charities in the area. – M. S. Salvationist 11 January 2020

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FEATURE Veganuary

Examining a

vegetarian legacy As thousands of people take part in Veganuary, Samantha Calvert explores vegetarianism in the early Salvation Army

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N the past five years Veganuary has joined awareness campaigns and challenges such as Dry January and Stoptober to encourage people to live better or raise funds for charity. Up to 350,000 people worldwide are trying a diet free of animal products for the month of January.

In the UK, organised veganism began with the founding of the Vegan Society in 1944, and the first members were part of the much older Vegetarian Society, founded in 1847.

The Salvation Army’s history is entwined with the history of late 19th and early 20th-century vegetarianism.

William and Catherine Booth were interested in vegetarianism from the days of their engagement. In 1854 Catherine wrote to William: ‘Have you Teatime at The Nest

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Salvationist 11 January 2020

thought any more about vegetarianism?

I am inclined towards it more than ever… we will examine its claims.’

They were, however, not consistently vegetarian throughout their lives. During an overseas visit in 1894 William was asked in a War Cry interview whether he was still a vegetarian. He responded: ‘No, I regret to say that I am not; for, seeing what discussion and trouble it would be likely to entail during my travelling, I deliberately backslid on this subject on the day I left England. I am now taking a little meat once, and sometimes twice, a day.’

The 1886 Orders And Regulations For Field Officers demonstrated the Founders’ commitment to advocating a vegetarian diet: ‘It is a great delusion to suppose that flesh meat of any kind is essential to health. Considerably more than three parts of the work of the world is done by men who never touch anything but vegetables and farinaceous food, and that of the simplest kind.

There are far more strength-producing properties in wholewheat flour, peas, beans, lentils, oatmeal, roots, and other vegetables of the same class, than there are in beef or mutton, poultry or fish, or

animal food of any description whatever.’

Later paragraphs state that a vegetarian diet is useful in ‘practising self-denial, improving… health, and brightening… spirits’ as well as supplying the means of saving ‘a substantial amount of money to help forward the Kingdom of God’.

Orders And Regulations For Soldiers (1890) included a short section on food.

The first paragraph stated: ‘With brown bread and good vegetables, milk, eggs, and fruit, there is very little need for meat, and good, vigorous health can be maintained without it.’ This paragraph was included in the 1943 revision but from 1950 onwards the guidance was less specific.

Of all Catherine and William’s offspring, Bramwell is most associated with vegetarianism. His articles on vegetarianism were published in The Local Officer and republished in The Herald Of The Golden Age, a journal of the Order of the Golden Age, a Christian vegetarian organisation. Based on writings of their daughter Catherine Bramwell-Booth, it seems likely that Bramwell and his wife, Florence, were not fully vegetarian until 1888, although

the family may have been predominantly vegetarian.

The Salvation Army’s commitment to vegetarianism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was evident in its social work.

The use of a vegetarian diet was widely believed to be beneficial to the reformation of alcoholics in the 19th century. Meat was seen as food that caused a desire for alcohol. An Annual Report of the Women’s Social and Rescue Work contains the story of a reformed alcoholic, Betsy Bobbett. The officer who witnessed her cure said, ‘The vegetarian food we use is the greatest help in diminishing the craving for alcoholic stimulants. It is carefully selected to this end.’

A vegetarian diet was also used in Salvation Army children’s homes such as The Nest. The children came from difficult backgrounds.

The author H Rider Haggard visited The Nest and a number of the Army’s other social work projects in 1910, and was told by the officer in charge that, occasionally, when they grow older, ‘propensities originally induced in [the girls] through no fault of their own will

assert themselves’, so to ‘lessen this danger, as in the case of the women inebriates, all these children are brought up as vegetarians’ (Haggard’s Regeneration).

Oriolet, a short-lived Salvation Army hospital in Loughton, Essex, was also run on vegetarian principles at the beginning of the 20th century. Prior to being offered to the Army, Oriolet had been run by its owner, A F Hills, as a vegetarian hospital for some years and his offer of its use was likely to have been made to safeguard its future as a vegetarian institution.

The entirely vegetarian diet continued until the hospital closed in 1904 due to the poor health of its only physician, Dr Ruth Wilson. Dr Wilson had, though, considered the diet a success from every point of view.

How successful The Salvation Army was at encouraging its members to take up vegetarianism is unknown. It distributed large quantities of vegetarian literature supplied by the Order of the Golden Age, but no record indicates high levels of vegetarianism within the Army. Perhaps members did not take to their hearts those requirements which,

unlike teetotalism, were not mandatory.

On the other hand, vegetarianism is likely to have been more widespread among Salvationists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries than is generally claimed today, even if the Booths were the only high-profile exponents.

Perhaps the most that can be said with any assurance is that the Army has an undeniably vegetarian legacy: a clear recommendation by both William and Bramwell Booth of the spiritual and temporal benefits of a vegetarian diet.

William Booth wrote in Religion For Every Day: ‘There are multitudes of men and women who would be wiser, healthier, happier and holier without meat altogether. I recommend everybody who has not made the experiment of total abstinence from flesh meat in every form to do so at once. Give it a month’s trial.’

In recommending a month’s trial William Booth would presumably have been in favour of Veganuary!

SAMANTHA IS HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS AT THE VEGAN SOCIETY Salvationist 11 January 2020

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FEATURE I ISS 40th anniversary

Pointing the way to

Ruth Unwin (Alton) has been a member of the International Staff Songsters since their inauguration.

She shares some highlights as they celebrate their 40th anniversary

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Salvationist 11 January 2020

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N 1979 General Arnold Brown asked Major Norman Bearcroft to form the International Staff Songsters. My sisters – Miriam, Eunice and Rhoda – and I sang as a quartet, often visiting corps and participating in events at headquarters. I was also part of the vocal group for the LP Spirit, which was directed by Major Les Condon, who recommended me for an ISS audition.

The same night as that audition I attended my first ISS rehearsal. I was quite young and very nervous to be in a room with such great Army names as Major Norman Bearcroft and Jacqui Proctor. It was scary in many ways, but the songsters were capable and we all loved singing.

Our first public event was the installation ceremony on 7 March 1980 at Fairfield Halls, Croydon. I will never

forget the experience. My family were there to support – my parents, my sisters and my dear grandmother, who had a lovely rich alto voice and was a great inspiration to me, vocally and spiritually. Apparently my future husband, Tony, was there too!

I was used to performing at Fairfield Halls, so I felt at home. In the afternoon before the festival we rehearsed marching in pairs down the steps to the platform, then moving forward to receive our appointment letter from the Chief of the Staff.

The first song we sang as the ISS was ‘Jesus, The Very Thought Of Thee’, so our first word was ‘Jesus’. That was an important moment for us because Jesus has been at the centre of everything we have done, no matter who has been our leader or whether we have been at a small corps, a large territorial event or on tour. That is the message we have taken to everyone, whatever their circumstances and whether they are a committed Christian, thinking about making a decision or someone who once had a faith. To point the way to Jesus is why the Staff Songsters are still in existence after 40 years.

General Brown, when announcing the group, indicated it was his hope that the ISS would not only introduce new music but also revive many of the legacy songs of The Salvation Army. These are a wonderful heritage from people who have gifted their musical and lyrical talents to

Jesus us. It has been a privilege to sing them and they have remained some of my favourite songs. Norman was a wonderful originator of music for the group and had a knack for arranging them so beautifully. The harmonies were well crafted, enhancing the original form of each song.

‘My Solemn Vow’ by Catherine Baird and Norman Bearcroft, ‘Passport To Heaven’ by Olive Holbrook and Edward Purcell, ‘He Giveth More Grace’ by Annie Johnson Flint to the tune of ‘Blacklands’ by Ray Steadman-Allen – these are just a few of the heart songs that impacted me back then and still have a powerful legacy today. Any song

by George Marshall is also a favourite, although I might be biased as I was born in his home town of South Shields.

There is a tremendous depth to these devotional songs. Even today, as culture and times have changed, their words still apply to our experiences. I’m really glad that they are still part of our repertoire.

When Captain Len Ballantine took over as leader in 1992 it was a significant time of transition within the Army in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Len extended our repertoire to introduce us to a contemporary style of music.

This happened as the Army was relaxing its attitude towards music by non-Army composers. He was an absolutely brilliant teacher and trainer, and we really took this new style on board. Len also introduced a little bit of movement into

our singing, which caused great hilarity.

I never get tired of singing Len’s arrangement of ‘More Than Wonderful’.

I absolutely love it. The group took to it straight away. It is a joy to sing every weekend as former members join with us. It has become an anthem of the ISS. Our repertoire today shows our development, as well as how we remain true to General Brown’s original vision.

Norman and Len were talented originators and arrangers for the group, and the interweaving thread of the heart songs, the contemporary choral work and the pioneering of new music has continued under the leadership of Peter Ayling, Andrew Blyth and, since 2003, Dorothy Nancekievill. Dorothy has added further pieces by contemporary choral composers such as Will Todd, Eric Whitacre and Bob Chilcott, which are a pleasure to sing. Our repertoire truly has something for everyone.

The aim of the group has always been to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus and to challenge and encourage them on their spiritual journeys. It is humbling to discover when this has happened following our festivals, meetings and recordings – and now through social media. What better way to share the gospel than through song?

Our visits to corps are always a highlight. We often stay in people’s homes, where there is the opportunity to share in conversations. I also enjoy the moments before festivals when we shake hands with people who have come to hear us. Although it is a brief time, even those few sentences are an opportunity to share with others.

It has been an amazing experience to sing in so many lovely and varied places, from cathedrals and churches to prestigious venues, such as the Royal

Albert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl in the USA. In contrast, but equally memorable and poignant, have been visits to countries such as Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa. These have provided opportunities to see first-hand what goes on in the Army overseas and how Salvationists there are worshipping and serving in their communities.

I am excited at the thought of being back at Fairfield Halls for the 40th anniversary concert on 7 March. It will be a really enjoyable time, singing with a live orchestra and being reunited with many former members.

Ruth Unwin But I am also wondering where the years have gone. I never imagined I would still be part of the group 40 years later, but what a privilege it has been.

The ISS are a wonderful family and community. I have been blessed to have enjoyed some long-standing friendships.

They have encouraged me and helped with my personal and spiritual development. It truly has been more than wonderful.

For more information about the 40th anniversary of the ISS, visit salvationarmy.org.uk/iss

O

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A united family of the ‘whosoever’ COLUMN FROM THE COLLEGE

Cadet Kit Mayston-King looks back at his first term at William Booth College

‘J

ESUS said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him’ (Mark 1:17 and 18 English Standard Version).

When I answered the Lord’s call to officership more than three years ago I can’t say I immediately left my net, but such is the journey of a candidate. Once I’d stopped wrestling with it, the candidate process became intrinsic to my calling. A journey of self-discovery, of a deepening relationship with God and of walking in footprints marked out for me. There is a sense of inevitability, of responsibility, of discipline – and some sense of personal loss – in saying yes to officership, as you leave your career, your home and your friends and family to enter college.

Like the fishermen, tax collectors and tentmakers, the cadets in our session come from all walks of life. Single, married, families, Roma, Pakistani, younger, older – we are part of life’s rich array. We reflect and represent those we must minister to, with no boundaries. We must love, serve and include all with a passion to serve the Lord and bring life in abundance to his people.

We unite as family – not just as the Messengers of Grace but with the Messengers of the Kingdom, the Principal, tutors, pastoral support officers and staff. There is little evidence of ‘us’ or ‘them’.

It may not be as it has always been, but it is relevant, and it is God’s purpose now. We are the ‘whosoever’ of college – teaching, learning, being served and serving. With an emphasis on the ‘knowing, being, and doing’ of true discipleship, we start to become the heart, head and hands of the God we serve.

Walking into the assembly hall for the first time as a session, the chatter subsided into hushed reverence. There is a palpable feeling of blessing in this 14

Salvationist 11 January 2020

Kit (centre back) with the wreath-making group place. A thin place, you sense the years of prayer and devotion, the covenants made, the communion with God and the peace that it brings.

Looking at the sessional flags hanging in the hall you are humbled as your own journey is put into context. You are about to join thousands of Spirit-filled souls who have given their lives to be those heart, head and hands.

It’s an opportunity to experience the college as few people external to it can.

Most come to events such as Welcome Weekend and encounter a vibrant place of praise and worship but miss the serenity that we are privileged to experience. Our monthly spiritual days – holy times given over exclusively to be with God and each other – have become precious to us.

Knowing a number of recently commissioned lieutenants and former training staff makes you think you know about college before you get there. ‘It’s too academic’, some say, yet the emphasis is on spiritual development.

‘It’s like living in a goldfish bowl’, yet it’s a safe space to freefall with God. ‘It’s not easy living in community’, yet deep sessional friendships evolve, supporting your ministry.

For cadets who have already led corps it can be challenging. For those of us with years of life experience it is easy to see college as yet another hoop to jump

through, but that would be to miss the mark. There is a holistic ministry of college that I struggle to put my finger on, but it challenges and ministers to you, whatever circumstances you find yourself in.

College is different for everyone who experiences it because, just like in our relationship with God, we all engage in unique ways. God speaks to me through creativity, and I have been gifted with creativity as a florist. College gives me the opportunity to use this gift to bring God’s beauty into events such as our welcome meeting and poignancy to our observance of Remembrance weekend.

I’ve been able to give thanks for my gift, offering it back to God by teaching others, spending a morning helping a group to make Advent wreaths, enjoying fellowship and mulled fruit punch, and raising money for our international appeal, all at the same time.

College also gives the opportunity to reach into the community on mission placements and at public events, such as the Remembrance commemorations at the Cenotaph.

The highlight of college for me so far has been the carolling. For a horn player of just a few months I truly bring the ‘whosoever’ to the band. But the joy that our playing brings to the community seems to transcend the more dubious joyful noise I make unto the Lord.

REVIEWS

Helpful steps to care for ourselves Major Zach Bell (Area Commander, Greater Houston Area Command, USA Southern Territory) reviews Boundaries For Your Soul by Alison Cook and Kimberly Miller*

B

OUNDARIES For Your Soul is a useful resource to help us care for the emotional needs of the people we serve and ourselves.

Salvationist Alison Cook and her co-author, Kimberly Miller, have gathered knowledge from their combined 25 years of advanced education, biblical studies and clinical practice to set forth an approach to emotions that combines evidence-based psychology and biblical wisdom.

The book is divided into three sections that build on each other. The first offers a nice introduction that looks at the parts of the soul and the role of the Holy Spirit at the centre. It includes the concept of taking a ‘you-turn’, which involves taking charge of yourself rather than blaming others.

The second section spells out how to

care for the various parts of your soul, and the last section offers great insights to help you deal with specific emotions, such as anger, fear, anxiety, sadness, envy, desire, guilt and shame. These emotions could potentially be paralysing and harmful but this book helps you address them in a healthy way.

All three sections contain real-life stories that can relate to our own situations. They include quizzes and life-application questions, which allow us to apply what has been learnt.

I found that the ‘five steps of taking a you-turn’ relate well to my work in ministry. They are: focus ‘on the part of

your soul that’s bothering you’; befriend ‘the parts of your soul that you’ve dismissed as troublesome’; invite ‘Jesus to be near a struggling part of your soul’; unburden ‘the hurting parts of your soul’; and integrate ‘those parts into your internal family’, so that the parts of you that were at odds can take on new roles.

As The Salvation Army, we try to lighten the burdens of those we serve: physically, through our tangible social services, and spiritually, through our worship. We truly hope to welcome all whom we serve into our family, which is what makes us so much stronger.

These five steps are what we emphasise in our ministry activities on a daily basis but not normally when it comes to ourselves. We can be so focused on everyone else at times that we lose sight of the needs within our souls.

I challenge you to pick this book up and read it. As we focus more on bringing God’s care to our own souls, may our ministry to others be strengthened and go deeper.

O Boundaries For Your Soul is available from amazon.co.uk priced at £7.91 (paperback) or £6.99 (Kindle Edition).

Download a free chapter from thomasnelson.com/p/boundaries-foryour-soul * Adapted from a review in Word & Deed

A book for everyone Major Susan Robinson (Norwich Mile Cross) reviews Second Helpings by Peter Mylechreest

T

HE second book written by Major Peter Mylechreest lives up to the anticipation since his first book, Light Bites.

However you choose to read it – a thought a day, all at once, in one or two sittings or using a thought for a talk or even a sermon – it will not disappoint.

The chapters include such gems as ‘God’s Dwelling Place’, ‘Whoops!’ and

‘No Matter What’ that will teach you and make you sit up and say, ‘I didn’t know that.’ It will make you smile, bring back memories and touch your emotions.

Second Helpings is a good, useful and helpful resource that can be used time and time again. It will be a springboard for teaching, listening and discussion. It should be kept where it can be seen and easily got at, and will become well used and loved.

It is something that can be read by everyone from young adults upwards. If you are a speaker or teacher, this book is for you. If you want to grow in your spiritual life, this book is for you. If you

want to worship, this book is for you. It’s a book we all need, whoever we are.

O Second Helpings is available from SP&S (sps-shop.com) priced at £5.99 (plus postage and packing) Salvationist 11 January 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

Infinitely more Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts highlights the need for spiritual growth rooted in God’s love STUDY PASSAGE: EPHESIANS 3:16–19

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OR the past three years, my husband, youngest daughter and I have lived in a house near Purley Oaks station in south London. I have yet to discover any nearby oaks but we did have plenty of other trees between our garden fence and the railway line at the end of the garden. Each summer we enjoyed the rich canopy of green leaves that completely masked the passing trains on the busy London to Gatwick line. Sadly, in recent months, those trees have been cleared away in preparation for new homes to be built on what seems an impossibly small plot of land next to the railway.

In October 2019, our daughter entered the Trees for Londoners ballot. The Woodland Trust offered 30,000 free trees to be sent in packs of two per successful applicant. She applied and then forgot all about it until a thin cardboard box was delivered to our

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

by Major Philippa Smale

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Salvationist 11 January 2020

home in November. We were excited to see the trees – a wild cherry and a rowan. We opened the box and discovered two unpromising long ‘twigs’ and a planting guide. The saplings were placed in a bucket of water for a few days until they could be planted in the garden. Now we wait in hope to see if they will grow and fulfil their intended purpose, to improve air quality and also to restore something of the verdant beauty we formerly enjoyed. We are going to need a lot of faith and patience.

In Ephesians 3, Paul’s prayer is for God’s people to grow and flourish spiritually. It is a prayer for empowerment, of being rather than doing.

QUESTION What kind of spiritual growth do you hope for in the coming year?

O

Paul prays that God will strengthen the believers by the power of his Holy Spirit and that Christ will dwell in their

hearts. The Greek word katoikein used for ‘dwell’ refers to permanent residence – settling down and really being at home.

The song ‘Spirit Divine’ by Brindley Boon expresses a similar prayer: ‘Come, great Spirit, come,/ Make each heart thy home;/ Enter every longing soul;/ Come, great Spirit, come’ (SASB 311).

Here are two facets of the same process – a deepening awareness of God’s power and a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Yet there is one active requirement: faith.

Jesus spoke of faith like a mustard seed – something very small with huge potential to grow. Paul’s prayer for strength is followed by an image of botanical growth: ‘I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power… to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ’ (vv17 and 18). The Living Bible expresses it very directly: ‘May your roots go down deep into the soil of

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

(Ephesians 3:16 and 17)

Come in, my Lord, come in/ And make my heart thy home;/ Come in and cleanse my soul from sin/ And dwell with me alone./ Thyself to me be given,/ In fullness of thy love;/ Thyself alone wilt make my Heaven/ Though all thy gifts remove.

(SASB 411)

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:17–19)

QUESTION Is there a challenge here for you to offer spiritual encouragement to others?

knows us perfectly, our capacity and our limitations.

We are deeply loved by God and fully understood, even as we live in the mystery of the one who makes himself known to those who seek him.

Songwriter Elizabeth Ann MacKenzie writes: ‘Love surpassing understanding,/ Angels would the mystery scan,/ Yet so tender that it reaches/ To the lowest child of man./ Let me, Jesus, let me Jesus,/ Fuller know redemption’s plan’ (SASB 468).

Think about the characteristics of spiritual health found in our study passage – strength, love, knowledge and fullness in Christ. These can all flourish in us through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit.

The final part of this prayer is for believers to be ‘filled to the measure of all the fullness of God’ (v19). As human beings we may question whether we are able to attain such spiritual heights. Let us be reassured that our Creator God

LIEUT-COLONEL ROBERTS IS SECRETARY FOR SPIRITUAL LIFE DEVELOPMENT, THQ

God’s marvellous love’ (v17).

This echoes Psalm 1 where the people of God who spend time in his word are likened to trees planted by streams of water. They flourish and bear fruit in due season, constantly nourished by life-giving water. When we are rooted in love we are enabled to experience God’s love in all its dimensions, even though we cannot fully understand it.

Spiritual growth will be evident in four aspects: strength, love, knowledge and fullness. In just four verses the writer captures an incredibly complex and rich series of possibilities, interconnected like an extending telescope.

and confidence to approach God in prayer on behalf of the Ephesian believers who are so dear to him. He urges them not to be discouraged by his situation, but to grasp God’s love and power to the full.

We can sometimes make our limitations an excuse. However, nothing stopped Paul from ministering the grace of God to his brothers and sisters in Christ. He asked that they would have power ‘together with all the Lord’s holy people’ (v18), a reminder that we need fellowship with each other to be spiritually healthy.

QUESTIONS O How can you ensure you are rooted and grounded in love?

O Where do you find spiritual nourishment?

O

Paul writes from prison, probably chained to a Roman guard night and day, yet he experiences the freedom

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

God’s love is as wide as creation,/ God’s love is as boundless and free,/ God’s love, it can never be measured,/ God’s love is sufficient for me.

(SASB 24)

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

(Ephesians 3:20 and 21)

He is able, more than able/ To accomplish what concerns me today./ He is able, more than able/ To handle anything that comes my way./ He is able, more than able/ To do much more than I could ever dream./ He is able, more than able/ To make me what he wants me to be.

(SASB 836)

‘Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.’ ( John 14:12 and 13)

Prayer

Father God, we thank you and praise you that all things are possible with you.

When we put our trust in you, you lead us on an amazing adventure of service in your name. You will lead us to do great things! So let it be.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL: Josiah Rodriguez and Promise Mateta were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Adrian Allman.

They are pictured with Colour Sergeant Edward Dixon and Junior Soldiers Sergeant Ruth Taylor. Promise testified that he wanted to be a better Christian and follower of God. Josiah shared that he wanted to be an important member of the church community and to tell others about God’s amazing work. – R. O.

LOUGHBOROUGH: Patricia Gibbs and Celia and Gemma Robbins were welcomed as adherent members and affirmed in their journey of faith by Divisional Commander Major Martin Hill. Each gave their testimony, sharing their inspiring, encouraging and heart-warming stories. As well as certificates, badges and cards, they received copies of a surprise greeting sent by Deacon Jan Sutton, head of chaplaincy at Loughborough University, who spoke at a recent corps retreat.

‘Grow where you are planted!’ she encouraged them. Also pictured are corps officer Major Marta Ager and flag bearer Colin Rouse. – M. A. LARNE: Corps officer Captain Annemarie Cole welcomed Kirstie Gore as an adherent member.

Kirstie gave her testimony in the meeting, supported by friends and family.

– P. C.

HASTINGS TEMPLE: Having attended worship and the home league for some years, Angela Hill and Jackie Causer were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Major Karen Smith. Amanda McNulty was also enrolled as a soldier after returning to the Army after a time away. Watching the commissioning of the Messengers of the Gospel, she made her decision and knew immediately that it was the right move for her. She is now involved in the parent-andtoddler group, Sunday school and youth club and sells Army papers every week in Ore village – an initiative that started with the herald challenge. Amanda is certain that God has amazing plans for her future. Major Karen, Angela, Jackie and Amanda are pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Major Carole Babstock. – K. S. PENZANCE: Corps officer Major Vincent Wall welcomed Jenny Worth as an adherent member at the home league meeting. Although unable to attend on Sundays, Jenny chose The Salvation Army as her church and is a staunch supporter of the corps. – V. W. 18

Salvationist 11 January 2020

NORWICH MILE CROSS: Corps officers Majors Paul and Susan Robinson enrolled Pat Thorne and Sarah Jarvis as soldiers. Pat has attended for years and was already an adherent member, and Sarah has been attending for a relatively short time. In her testimony, Sarah paid tribute to her friend Major Jean Bradley, who taught her about Jesus. While sitting by Major Jean’s side in hospital, as she lay dying, Sarah realised that she was not alone. Pat and Sarah already play major parts in the life of the corps, helping to run the weekly coffee morning and monthly dementia café, the Sunshine Café. Sarah has also started a craft group. They are pictured with flag bearer Peter Jeffries. – G. W.

LETTERS

LOOKING FOR MARY I AM a former member of The Salvation Army, now a Catholic priest. I am trying to acquire a copy of Catherine BoothClibborn’s much-reprinted pre-war booklet Mary, The Mother Of Our Lord.

I first read it many years ago and was impressed and encouraged by it. I have recently found it again. I now have a copy in French and there are many copies in English in various libraries, but I cannot find a copy for sale anywhere.

Perhaps there is a reader out there who has a copy and would happily part with it? It would go to a kindly and appreciative home!

In Christ, Rev Mgr David Silk Torquay [email address supplied]

LETTERS Many years ago General Frederick Coutts said letters in the Army’s press should be ‘carefully thought out and charitably expressed’. Letters may be edited and should ideally be no more than 300 words.

Catherine Booth-Clibborn

HELP WANTED: PUTTING ARMY HISTORY ON THE MAP I AM currently working on a project mapping Salvation Army data on the web. The idea is to create lots of different animated heat maps to show different characteristics of the Army around the world over a period of time, eg when The Salvation Army started in a specific country, the number of corps, officers, soldiers or schools there, etc.

The simplest map already produced is when the Army started in each country around the world, as well as who the General was at the time. To see it, scan the first QR code using a smartphone.

How can you help? To map other information over time, such as the number of corps or officers, we need the statistics for each territory and year

from Salvation Army yearbooks.

However, the yearbook stats are not available anywhere in digital form, and yearbooks can be hard to get hold of (the further back in time you go, the harder they are to find). So far, we have manually entered the stats from about 30 yearbooks (mostly from about 1987) but there are over 100 years to cover, so there are plenty we do not have any data for.

You can enter the data into our online spreadsheet, which is accessible by scanning the second QR code.

If you have any yearbooks for periods that are not already featured in the heat map, and can enter some data for them, that would be very helpful. (It

takes about an hour to manually enter the data from one yearbook.) You can also visit the International Heritage Centre, which is happy to support this project and has a full collection of yearbooks.

To see a sample of what we have done with the number of corps so far (it will look better when we have fewer gaps in our data), scan the third QR code.

If you have any questions, or would like me to email you the links to the existing maps and spreadsheet, please contact me at email address supplied.

Thanks for your help.

David Philpot Brisbane

1. Global growth of The Salvation Army

2. Online spreadsheet of data

3. Number of Army corps worldwide Salvationist 11 January 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 31 October 2019 O Major Neil Woollacott, Chester Effective 1 January O Captain Joanna Baker, additional appointment, Area Candidates Officer, Central South Effective 2 January O Major Nigel Byrne, additional appointment, Teignmouth Effective 6 January O Major Stewart Grinsted, Southwark Effective 5 March O Major Lynn Farmer, Chaplain, Greenock Floating Support Service and Glasgow Housing First Effective 15 March O Captain Ben Cotterill, Project Officer, Pakistan Territory O Captain Rebecka Cotterill, Enterprise Development Officer, Pakistan Territory MARRIAGE O Chizuruoke Anyim to Chidinma Anaso at Northampton by Major Janice Snell

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Golden O Majors Betty and Melvyn Ackroyd (24 January) BEREAVED O Avis Elliot, Douglas, of her husband Bandsman Ken Elliot, David Elliot, Cannock, Liz Dixon, Douglas, and John Elliot of their father O Major Karl Gray, Clapton, of his mother Barbara O Michael Boughton, Tadcaster, of his wife Gladys O Territorial Envoy Lynette Skutt, Liverpool Community Chaplain, of her father Alfred Skutt O Major Lindsey Toy, Westonsuper-Mare, of her mother Mary Blackman-Hall O Major Elwyn Harries, THQ, and Glyn Harries of their mother Sheila O Paul Perryman, Belfast Sydenham, Elizabeth Perryman, and Sharon Rix, of their father Major William Perryman O Marijane Gwata, Leeds Central, of

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O India Northern Territory, Mon 20 Jan – Sun 26 O India Western Territory, Mon 27 – Mon 3 Feb THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O ICO (welcome to session), Th 16 Jan O ICO (lecture), Tu 21 O Korea Territory (installation of territorial leaders), Th 6 Feb – Sun 9 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Clydebank (retirement of Commissioners Carol and Ivor Telfer), Sat 11 Jan O ICO (welcome to session), Th 16 O Dublin City (opening of new building), Sat 18 O Dublin South, Sun 19 O Territorial envoys annual seminar, Wed 22 O Clitheroe, Sat 25 O Anglia Division, Th Fr 31 O WBC (public welcome to the principal), Sun 2 Feb O WBC (first year cadets teaching module), Tu 4* O Aberdeen (Scotland Council), Th 6 O Basingstoke, Sat 8 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES O West Midlands (officers spiritual day), Th 16 Jan O Regent Hall (ISS 40th anniversary launch), Sat 18 O Swanwick (prayer gathering weekend), Fri 24 – Sun 26 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND O Regent Hall (ISS 40th anniversary launch), Sat 18 Jan O

Hendon, Sun 19

INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS O Regent Hall (ISS 40th anniversary launch), Sat 18 Jan O Regent Hall, Sun 19 O Sunderland Millfield, Sat Sun 9 Feb *Commissioner Gillian only

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Salvationist 11 January 2020

her father Moses Chisava Muriel Ottaway, Leeds Central, of her husband John, Robert Ottaway, Jill Smith, Richard Ottaway and Deborah Bedford, all Leeds Central, of their father, Alan Ottaway and Lilian Worth, both Macclesfield, of their brother O Commissioner Margaret Taylor of her sister Jean Waller O

PROMOTED TO GLORY O Rtd SL Pat Collings, Exeter Temple O Major William Perryman from his home on 21 December

WHAT’S ON LET THERE BE PRAISE O Reading Central Band on 15 January from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm on kitchener.faithfm.org Previous broadcasts are available on citadelpromotions.co.uk, salvoaudio.com and salvos.com/ tomquick

TRIBUTES RALPH HARVEY, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD WITH Salvationist parents, Ralph was involved in the former L’Islet Fortress Corps in Guernsey.

Work took him to Hemel Hempstead, where he met and married Christine Carr. They had two children, Stephen and Katie, but Christine sadly died while they were in their teens.

Ralph returned to the Army, where he served as a bandsman and helped in the coffee lounge. He also sold the War Cry in the town centre, where he loved meeting people.

He was a larger-than-life character, who supported Great Ormond Street Hospital and various local events as the ‘official’ Santa.

Ralph’s last days were at the Hospice of St Francis, where his beloved wife died 25 years earlier.

When the band visited the hospice, his wry humour was still evident.

Ralph’s final song request was ‘It Is Well With My Soul’. – L. R.

AUDREY WILLIAMS, WREXHAM BORN in 1924 Audrey grew up in Liverpool. During the Second World War she moved to the countryside and found a new church in The Salvation Army at Cefn Mawr in Wales.

There she met and married Les Williams and they shared more than 70 years together. Audrey was a dedicated homemaker who enjoyed family life with her children, Barbara and Eric, and her grandchildren.

Audrey was a talented pianist and accompanied the songsters for many years. After she retired, she regularly helped with reading lessons at a

nearby infants’ school.

She was a quiet lady with a deep faith and rich Bible knowledge, and a keen visitor who would always lend a listening ear. Never one to complain, Audrey fully trusted in her Lord, with the assurance that one day ‘all will be well’. – E. W.

OLWEN MAY NORMAN, WATCHET A TRUE and loyal soldier at the corps for many years, May was No 1 on the roll, a Sunday school teacher, songster and bandswoman. She always put others first and is missed by her family and corps folk. – S. S.

Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy

Did you know Salvationist is now online?

WE UPDATE OUR WEBSITE WEEKLY, GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO O Read through archived issues O Catch up on the news you missed O Read the Editor’s comment and our article of the week O Share archived issues with others Like our page at facebook.com/ salvationistonline to keep up to date Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 11 January 2020

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ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 11 January 2020

22-23

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…

MAJOR GEOFF ASHDOWN Retired officer, Southend Citadel How did you first come into contact with the Army?

My friend at junior school was the son of Salvationists and went to cubs at Wood Green Corps. I went along with him and loved it!

‘

My training officer at the International Training College told me I’d never last five minutes as an officer

’

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

My school reports said I was a ‘slow and steady plodder who will get there in the end’. Too late to change now!

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

A bit more dosh – not a huge amount, but enough to get myself a really nice motorbike rather than the boring one I’ve got.

What made you want to become a Salvationist?

A very slow conviction over the years. I finally gave in to God walking home after an evening meeting at Wolves Lane, by the boating lake.

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

Noah. I’d say: ‘Come on, mate, did you really have two of every kind of animal?

Who cleaned out the elephants’ droppings?’

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

My commissioning song, ‘The Saviour Of Men Came To Seek And To Save’ (SASB 626).

Is there something you’ve never understood?

Why they got rid of steam engines.

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

Hatred.

What do you do in retirement?

After retirement I was the assistant officer at Hadleigh Temple for seven years, but I am a model railway enthusiast and have taken my layout Tower Pier to 11 exhibitions. Exhausting, but fun.

If you could invent a gadget, what would it be?

A third hand to mould the fiddly bits when soldering.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

To stop using trendy, made-up words, like ‘missional’ or ‘journaling’. They bring out the Victor Meldrew in me!

What is your favourite food?

Bangers and mash with onion gravy.

What do you do in your spare time?

Build model trains.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

My complete set of model railway journals (272 and counting) would keep me happy in the evenings.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

A caravan beside the sea. I can’t be bothered with the palaver of going abroad.

If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?

The 1950s Teddy Boy fashion: drape jackets and creepers.

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

‘You Are My Sunshine’ by Johnny Cash.

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

The Harry Potter film series. I’d be Professor Severus Snape, a much misunderstood character.

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

Chinese Laundry Blues by George Formby (1932). We used to play it incessantly on the family gramophone.

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

My training officer at the International Training College told me I’d never last five minutes as an officer. It gave me a lifelong incentive to prove him wrong.

With God’s grace, watch!

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

Denis Thatcher. I’d like to know what it was like being married to Margaret.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

Nothing ‘will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord’ (Romans 8:39). The old favourite does it for me every time.

What do you consider to be the most valuable thing you possess?

My two girls and grandchildren.