Salvationist 13 January 2024

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p/80c 13 January 2024

SALVATIONIST THE MAIN THING INTRODUCING THE NEW TERRITORIAL LEADERS

TALKING ABOUT JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION PAGES 10+11

Make it so!

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor

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For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

SALVATIONIST THE MAIN THING INTRODUCING THE NEW TERRITORIAL LEADERS

TALKING ABOUT JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION PAGES 10+11

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8+9 CONNECTING TO THE MAINS

Picture: Louise Norton CAFOD

FOR those of a certain disposition, the above words will be synonymous with the instruction of Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the USS Enterprise when giving orders to his crew to make something happen.

It’s an interesting concept, isn’t it?

By simply uttering those three words, an entire crew are focused on making something happen as instructed – to boldly go where no one has gone before!

At the start of this new year, and at the beginning of a new era of Salvation Army leadership within this territory, we hear from our new territorial leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main, and get an insight into the direction they would want us to travel, keeping Jesus at the centre as the main thing.

We hear, too, about a new initiative to empower young people in speaking into justice and reconciliation, one of the territory’s key mission priorities.

Momentum generally takes us somewhere. In what direction and at what speed are usually within our influence.

May we be ready to move boldly as God, through his Holy Spirit, would lead us, his people. May we all strive to make it so!

10+11 CALLING THE DISRUPTORS!

12+13 TERRITORIAL STRUCTURE UPDATE

Salvationist 13 January 2024

THE GENERAL’S NEW YEAR MESSAGE

SALVATIONIST Issue No 1943 EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

FOUNDER William Booth

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Stevie Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey

TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101

CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

© The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

ISSN 2516-5909.

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

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FRONT-PAGE PICTURE Andrew King Photography SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton.

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@SalvationistUKI

TRENDING

Praying for discernment Lieut-Colonel David Shakespeare encourages everyone to pray for the Territorial Appointments Conference this week

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HE Territorial Appointments Conference will take place from Sunday 14 January to Thursday 18 January. A group of territorial and divisional leaders will meet at William Booth College to worship and pray together, then to seek to understand the needs and opportunities the territory has at this time and consider how appointed leadership may help strengthen local teams in the best possible way. These proposals will then go to the Territorial Appointments Board, led by territorial leadership, before being released on 14 March.

Reflect and respond Commit to 15 minutes – or more if you can – of focused prayer between 6am and 10pm each day from 14 to 18 January.

Reflect on this prayer from Carla Harding: ‘Lord, here I am. I want to be wholly available to you, surrendered to your purpose, trusting in your perfect plan. Teach me today to respond to your call.’

For more prayer points around the Territorial Appointments Conference, visit salvationist.org. uk/praying-for-appointments.

The process of discernment has been under way for some months as THQ service personnel and divisional teams have met with local leaders and their teams to better understand how the local mission is flourishing and what is needed to be ever more fruitful in the next season of ministry. The recent restructuring of divisional boundaries has enabled a more strategic and collaborative approach as many communities now work to their strengths in clusters, which can give leaders a broader experience of the diverse ministry that happens in so many places.

This year’s conference will be structured in a different way from previous years. Each division and service has identified a strategically important appointment. These have been reviewed by the territorial leaders and the personnel service and some territorial priorities have become clear. These appointments will be prayerfully considered first and, through a process of collective discernment, people will be identified for these mission opportunities.

Later in the conference delegates will be invited to consider other leaders available to the territory in July and discern where their experiences, spiritual gifts and ministry passions can be best deployed for them to be fruitful and for mission to flourish.

The whole territory is invited to support these days of discernment with prayer.

Why be intentional about praying into this process? Prayer is needed for those who will be attending as they seek to understand God’s heart and mind. The Territorial Appointments Conference is always a sacred task and is characterised by a spirit of co-operation and goodwill so that the whole territory is strengthened.

Prayer is also needed for the officers and territorial envoys who will be involved in new areas of ministry later this year, and others who will become part of this transition, that they know themselves to be secure in the centre of God’s will.

Prayer for this part of the discernment process will no doubt lead us to think honestly and deeply about our territory as we seek to love God and love others – where we should work and what that work looks like are important issues for us all.

Prayer may also lead us to a greater understanding of our own discipleship and the part we must play as we respond to Jesus’ call to join him daily in pursuit of his mission.

LIEUT-COLONEL DAVID SHAKESPEARE Assistant Secretary for Personnel THQ

Salvationist 13 January 2024

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TESTIMONY

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EXPLAINED RS /‫ܭ ޝܤ‬V/ Ŷ Q AROUND the Army world there are 151,342 local officers supporting and upholding their corps and their leaders.

Similar to lay leaders in other denominations, local officers are soldiers who undertake specific duties.

A common position found in many corps is the recruiting sergeant (RS).

An RS looks after seekers and converts and is a key member of the pastoral care council (PCC). They arrange pastoral counselling at the mercy seat and prepare people for adherency or soldiership. They keep the mercy seat ready for use, follow up with people who approach the mercy seat, encourage people interested in exploring Christianity or seeking Christ, and register and provide aftercare for converts to Christianity.

They provide copies of Called to Be a Soldier to new recruits and see that they are led to understand the Soldier’s Covenant before signing it.

They can also place them in the care of a local officer for guidance.

An RS often arranges meetings, with the corps leader’s approval, to strengthen converts and recruits through the difficulties of their new life. They are also responsible for keeping a register of seekers and converts and provide updates to the PCC. Orders and Regulations for Local Officers (2002) explains that they will be ‘a lover of souls, an out-andout Salvationist … willing to spare no efforts to help seekers, both at the [mercy seat] and afterward, no matter how ... unnoticed such work may be’.

Could God be calling you to a local officer position?

Speak to your corps leader or read more at salvationist.org.uk/ local-officership-and-service.

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Salvationist 13 January 2024

‘I’m where God has placed me’ Head teacher Sue Blyth (Peterborough Citadel) shares how her faith influences her as a leader

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OR most of my adult life, I have been challenged about my ‘calling’ and how I live out that calling in my daily life. I always questioned this, until I became a head teacher. Listening one Sunday to my corps officer preach on Matthew 5:16 very early on in my headship, I heard the voice of God tell me how I should lead my school: ‘I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there – shine!’

From that moment on, I have been driven by this verse. My school is a large community primary school, with no religious background.

Yet we’re driven by this very evangelical desire to be present in our community and not to shy away from our core purpose: to serve.

Of course, we want our students to be literate and numerate, that’s our bread and butter, but more than that we’re a school built on the foundation of love – a place where children, staff and parents feel valued and nurtured to be the best possible versions of themselves.

As the head teacher, I am the pastor of this community, with a flock of 450 children, 72 staff and countless family members. The school is there in their happiest moments g as well as in the darkest of times. Although there are many great school leaders of o everything no faith out there, who will do er as my most they can, I know I have prayer e. Even in school, powerful and useful resource. prayer changes things! hink of William As a Salvationist, I often think elieve a Booth’s ‘I’ll Fight’ speech. I believe e where school is absolutely the place The Salvation Army should be. It’s eople a whole community where people need love, support and care. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, schools have seen xhibiting a huge increase in children exhibiting ties, which social and emotional difficulties, haviours are played out in difficult behaviours chool or school avoidance. At my school he a Starfish mentor – part of The Salvation Army’s mentoring programme – actively works with these children to help them articulate and understand their feelings and how they might addresss

them. The cost of living crisis also means many parents are facing challenges. School staff are not immune to these issues either.

The Salvation Army can offer a listening ear as well as practical help and support. I thank God for Salvationists who are willing to serve and spend time with people in these wonderful, vibrant communities, influencing the next generation.

Charles Wesley once wrote: ‘To serve the present age, my calling to fulfil.’ For me, there is no finer calling. I’m on the front line, every day, right where God has placed me.

Sue will be speaking at the Children and Youth Department’s Schoolswork Conference on 16 March, alongside teachers, volunteers, governors and students. The event will provide inspiration, resources and teaching to equip corps to explore mission opportunities. Tickets are £40, including lunch and refreshments.

Find out more at salvationist.org.uk/ cy-schoolswork-conference. cy schoolswork conference.

THE GENERAL’S NEW YEAR MESSAGE

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T the time of writing this short reflection I am enjoying the days between Christmas and New Year.

It’s vacation time and the pace is much slower than normal. I am looking out over beautiful, rolling green hills and it is so quiet and peaceful. I can feel my mind and body going, ‘aaaaahhhh’. Thank you, Lord, for days of rest and restoration.

It is a perfect time for reflection.

I thank God for his grace, mercy and love in my life and the lives of my family.

I acknowledge his faithfulness to all his promises. I can see his hand throughout the events of 2023. I acknowledge, without hesitation, the impact of his sustaining grace during a year full of challenges and possibilities. God is good. I reflect on the power of prayer, the vitality of God’s Word and the joy of fellowshipping with his people.

I recognise the privilege of being engaged in the mission of God as expressed through my service in The Salvation Army.

I also give thanks for the impact of Salvation Army ministry around the world.

I am thankful for Salvationists globally who have served faithfully throughout 2023, many in extremely difficult circumstances. Your faithfulness and dedication is an inspiration to me. It also makes a difference in our world.

God’s promises for a new year The time ‘in between’ prompts some thought about the new year. I know there are many people who face the year with a degree of anxiety, fear and uncertainty.

The world is very troubled at present. Our news is full of reports that increase our concern and cause us to wonder what the year might bring for us all.

I have been reflecting on some Scriptures I find both reassuring and motivating as I prepare to embrace 2024.

Zephaniah 3:17: ‘The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.’

Lamentations 3:22 and 23: ‘Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.’

Isaiah 41:10: ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.’

With promises that include his presence, salvation, love, strength and faithfulness, I am ready to embrace the challenges and the opportunities a new year offers. How about you?

Ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us Whilst the world may be full of uncertainty, our mission in the world as The Salvation Army remains very certain. Let’s continue to be a people who love God supremely, always looking for opportunities to give him praise and credit for who he is and what he has done for us in Jesus. Let’s always be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us. We need a global Army

bursting with people ready and willing to communicate the difference Jesus has made in our lives; that salvation is possible for the whosoever through faith in him.

I want us to continue to demonstrate our love for God by loving others, especially the unloved, the vulnerable and those forced to the margins of society.

Finding ways to care for others becomes a practical demonstration of the values of the Kingdom of God.

The power of a holy life I encourage all of us to be very intentional in our discipleship journey in 2024, pursuing holiness in every area of our lives.

Please do not underestimate the power and influence a holy life can have on those around you. A life lived to the glory of God and with a genuine desire to be the aroma of Christ in the world will have impact. Our individual contribution may be small, but the collective impact can, and will be, significant.

The world needs the contribution we can make. We may be small in number, but we can and will be a mighty force for good when clear about our mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit and willing to get involved. Count me in!

Grace and peace.

God bless you.

LYNDON BUCKINGHAM General

Salvationist 13 January 2024

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BIBLE STUDY

Consider it pure joy Major Tim Johnson encourages us to persevere through trials and temptations JAMES 1:2–16

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OMETIMES our theology leaks out in surprising ways. At one corps I served in, the youth group went bowling. After a round where one individual had launched both shots into the gutter, that person announced: ‘That just shows that God hates me.’

They were having an over-dramatic moment, of course, but when things go awry, is there not something in many of us that asks: ‘Is this a punishment from God?’ Do the bad things in life – illnesses, accidents, bereavements or job losses – mean that God hates us? James suggests that such ‘trials’ are opportunities to learn and grow.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Read James 1:2–4. Note the phrase ‘consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds’.

What’s your first reaction to this phrase?

What kind of person do you consider James to be – a hard taskmaster or a wise teacher?

What defines the ‘trials’ James talks about? At the time of writing, ‘the testing of your faith’ (v3) might have meant arrest by the Roman authorities for following Jesus and possibly being tortured to renounce him and, instead, acclaim Caesar as lord.

Today, the nearest that might likely happen to us is that moment when someone asks, in front of everybody else: ‘So what’s your view as a Christian, then…?’

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Salvationist 13 January 2024

Or do the trials James is thinking of fall into a wider category than that?

PAUSE AND REFLECT What are the stress points in your life?

Write them down and then ask God to help you deal with them.

While we might not enjoy dealing with trials, we need to recognise how they help us grow. From being helped to deal with our first but-it’s-not-fair moment to grappling with much bigger injustices, there is a process of growth in character and resilience. How do we build up to the major events of our lives – such as bereavement or major illness – if we don’t first have the practice of dealing with small disappointments?

James says that perseverance produces a person who is ‘mature and complete’ (v4). What does this person look like? One dimension is that they can accurately categorise what is good and what is bad but are then able to see the blessings that less favourable moments bring.

Two images come to my mind. First, an immature individual who sees only the negative and unexpected and whinges about it. This type of person complains to a travel company that the beach was too sandy or that no one told them that there would be fish in the sea and their children were startled.

Then, at the other extreme, there is the person with a hallelujah-anyway attitude, who knows no bad and sees only good. They might seem to be very positive but can lack in discernment and empathy.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Think about the challenges that you have tackled and overcome. Reflect on the determination that this has produced in you and thank God for the strength you have.

In James 1:4–8, note how James pivots from being mature and not lacking anything to ‘if any of you lacks wisdom’.

Wisdom is a central concept for James.

Put broadly, wisdom is a reliance on God while engaging the heart and the mind.

It’s a key Old Testament idea, expressed abundantly in Proverbs, that life is best lived with God. James diverts to consider poor and rich people before returning to perseverance in verse 12. For him, those who are poor are exalted in God’s eyes, while wealthy people are lowered.

James’s view is that riches will not get anyone into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Jesus said: ‘It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God’ (Mark 10:25). Poor people are necessarily more reliant on God rather than on material wealth.

PAUSE AND REFLECT How does James’s approach to wealth strike you?

Are you content with what you have – or is having more necessary for you to be happy?

Where does God fit into that balance?

The last section for this study ends where it started – with trials. The words

From January 2024, Prayer Matters is following a new prayer rhythm, to pray for renewal in this territory’s worship and mission. Each day will have a theme, based on the five mission priorities. To read the unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.

SATURDAY 13 JANUARY: CARE FOR CREATION – WINTER WONDER The trees have shed their burdens, the branches are cold and bare. List what you need to leave behind in this season of dying back, ready to return to fruitfulness as the year progresses. Light a fire (maybe as small as a candle) and burn your list (safely) as God uses what has passed to bring brightness to the darkness.

by Captain Vanessa Coleman (Woking)

‘trials’ (v2) and ‘tempted’ (v13) derive from the same Greek word. If we overcome all the trials, tests and temptations in our lives, we will show ourselves as mature followers, worthy of the crown of life.

Life will bring us tests of good and evil.

James is clear: God does not test or tempt us with evil; instead, he rewards us for following him faithfully.

James offers us two sides of God’s goodness: the encouraging Master, who wishes us to grow and overcome, and rewards us when we do (see v12); and the God of grace ‘who gives generously to all without finding fault’ (v5).

PAUSE AND REFLECT We are very accustomed to the idea of grace. Is it a surprise to you to see the image of a transactional reward from God in the Bible?

How do you react to such an idea?

Do bad things mean that God hates us? No. We are entrusted with the gift of life – which will encompass sorrow as well as joy.

It is up to us to reach towards God in all things. When we do, the riches in the character we build will be a reward in itself.

SUNDAY 14 JANUARY: SABBATH PRAYER – CALLING Father God, you called to Moses out of a burning bush; you called him to a life of service and leadership. Help me to hear you speaking to me today, no matter how unexpected your voice may seem, and renew in me a fire for the calling on my life.

by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team) MONDAY 15 JANUARY: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – APPOINTMENTS CONFERENCE As territorial and divisional leaders gather to seek God’s guidance in planning the next set of officer appointments, we pray that their conversations will be characterised by boldness, compassion, passion, respect, integrity and mutual accountability. We pray that the decisions made will result in more people hearing the gospel in the coming years.

by Major Ian Woodgate (Personnel Officer – Administration) TUESDAY 16 JANUARY: SERVING AND CARING – APPOINTMENTS CONFERENCE We continue to lift before God those who meet, for a stirring of the gifts of the Spirit as they worship, pray and talk together. We pray for each officer preparing to serve in a new appointment, and for the corps, centres and other ministries preparing to welcome new leadership.

by Major Ian Woodgate (Personnel Officer – Administration) WEDNESDAY 17 JANUARY: GROWING IN FAITH – WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY (18–25 JANUARY) As the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins tomorrow, we pray: loving God, as part of the Church aiming to ‘grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ’ (Ephesians 4:15), may we willingly give and receive prayer and support to help one another grow in faith, hope and love.

by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts (Divisional Commander, Wales) THURSDAY 18 JANUARY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – RUSSIA TERRITORY In our Worldwide Prayer Meeting this week we pray for the Russia Territory, its territorial leaders, Lieut-Colonel Alexander Kharkov and Major Inna Khurina, and its people. May God protect all those seeking to demonstrate the love of Jesus in difficult circumstances.

by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team) FRIDAY 19 JANUARY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS Lord Jesus, enable us in our desire to seek reconciliation for the refugee and asylum seeker. Give us courage to bridge the divides and be bringers of your grace and love.

by Major Adrian Lee (Huddersfield)

MAJOR TIM JOHNSON Corps Officer Gosport

PRAYER REQUESTS Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and it will be upheld in prayer.

INTERVIEW

In their first interview as territorial leaders, Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main talk to Salvationist Editor Major Julian Watchorn about their focus as they take on their new responsibilities 8

Salvationist 13 January 2024

Picture: Andrew King Photography

Keeping the main thing the Main thing

How are you feeling about your new appointments?

Jenine Excited, apprehensive and mindful of the expectations of others.

I’m aware that we cannot please all people all the time.

Paul Excited, nervous and privileged.

We’re grateful for the foundations laid

by Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill and intend to build on those foundations.

How did you come to the Army?

How were you called to officership?

Paul We both come from Salvationist families. I had officer parents.

Jenine I had local officer parents.

Paul They were good role models and had a strong influence on our thinking and decisions about what God might be asking of us.

Jenine We were both greatly shaped by corps cadets and influenced by strong corps cadet guardians. In my case, that was also my mum.

Paul I was called during a corps cadet rally when I was 14 years old. I was obedient to that call a couple of years later in a corps meeting at Edinburgh Gorgie, when I found myself surrendering fully to God at the mercy seat not knowing how I got there.

Jenine My calling came when I was studying to be a teacher and I started to realise that this was not the path I should take. God stripped everything away that I had planned for my life and clearly directed me towards full-time ministry in The Salvation Army.

What is important to you other than your calling?

How do you rest?

Paul Family is the most important thing.

We have two children – both married – and four grandchildren. We are a close family and speak to each other most days. We also both enjoy walking. I’m quite creative and enjoy gardening and DIY. Jenine I enjoy reading and also listening to podcasts, especially The All Terrain Podcast (see salvationist.org.uk/ podcasts) and The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast.

You have shared the leadership of many corps together, but there have been occasions when you held separate appointments. To

what extent might this experience influence how you lead in your new roles?

Both We intend to lead together.

We both love to lead but we see our past experiences of leading separately as influential and equipping for how we lead together. We hope that this will inspire other couples in joint leadership roles. Serving overseas has also widened our perspective on leadership within the international Salvation Army.

Are there specific passions or causes that God has laid upon your hearts? What will the Main era look like?

Both The most important thing is to keep Jesus at the centre. That we, The Salvation Army, would make Jesus visible to this world. We would like to demonstrate and witness the countercultural, upside-downness of the Kingdom. We want to be bold, to take Holy Spirit-led risks. We want to take the lead from Scripture to be courageous in listening to and acting upon the Spirit’s leading. To step out in faith. We have good people around us who will help us with this. We believe that we will see miracles and answers to prayer.

We are committed to listening to the territory’s young people. We are keen to get them involved at every level.

Children and youth will play a part in our installation. We are particularly pleased that there will be a new Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Youth Forum, which will be starting this year (see pages 10 and 11).

We both feel strongly about equality, which we hope is demonstrated in our leadership style. Equality, diversity and inclusion are very important to us both.

This needs to be preached and lived out.

What can the territory be praying for you?

Both We have made some bold statements in this interview, but if we are to see them fulfilled, we will need them to be prayed for.

We would ask for prayers for pace, space and grace. Pace – to manage both our expectations and the expectations of others and to be at peace about it.

Space – for things that fill us up and inspire us. For conversations that do that too. Grace – discernment for those things that will challenge us and the Christian mission. Grace, too, to be the people God wants us to be.

More than anything else we would ask that, during our time as territorial leaders, the focus will continue to be Jesus, bringing more people to know him and that we will see God’s Kingdom come.

What are you most excited about?

Both Leading together. The opportunity to be bold, to continue to build and be part of this great team of people committed to serving Jesus. To have more opportunities to visit corps and centres and to hear what God is doing.

We look forward to seeing and hearing the dreams and visions of God’s people around the territory.

We asked some children and young people to share some questions for you…

Do you like Peppa Pig? Both Yes – we have young grandchildren who share this with us.

Do you like Marmite?

Jenine Yes. I eat it every day.

Paul No.

What more can we do to protect the environment?

Paul The territory has a plan to be net zero by 2040. That is a big commitment and won’t be easy. We all have a responsibility to do more, both personally and collectively through our corps and as a Church. We have an opportunity to speak to government and the territory’s environmental officer is supporting this agenda. We are reminded in Scripture of our responsibility to care for creation. It is one of our mission priorities.

Jenine Our carelessness always has greatest impact on the poor and vulnerable, therefore we have a responsibility to reduce that, and we will continue to support those working towards it. We are pleased that there are a number of corps that are now Eco Churches and we are encouraged to see more of these through Salvationist.

O The official welcome to the new territorial leaders is at 3.30pm on Sunday 21 January at Regent Hall. Tickets are free and available to book via salvationist.org. uk/welcome-new-territorial-leaders. The event will also be live-streamed on youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo.

Salvationist 13 January 2024

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Calling all disruptors!

Salvationist invites anyone aged 14 to 25 to apply to the territory’s Justice and Reconciliation Youth Forum

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OD’S call to fight for justice has always been at the heart of The Salvation Army’s mission. Salvationists understand that the Lord’s prayer for God’s Kingdom to come ‘on Earth as it is in Heaven’ is not some vague hope but a fundamental belief that genuine transformation can take place – right here, right now.

Today, young people across the Army are already involved in tackling justice issues. God is raising up new generations to improve the future by disturbing the present.

The Army in this territory wants to help more young people do just that through a new Justice and Reconciliation Youth Forum, launching in March – and, if you’re aged between 14 and 25, you can apply to join today. un ng ‘Justice is something y young

people care passionately about,’ says Territorial Co-ordinator for Justice and Reconciliation Major Nick Coke. ‘They intuitively see justice and faith as connected. They have a willingness to take risks. It doesn’t mean older people don’t have that too, but it’s widespread in young adults and that’s exciting.’

‘Many young people we encounter have a strong sense of justice,’ agrees Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Lieutenant Jonny Whitmore. ‘We hear at summer schools, online and in various other contexts youth voices speaking out and into justice issues.’

‘It’s easy to talk about the evils of social media, and I agree with all ength h of it is is that tha that, but one strength people ea re eg loba lo balllly y our young pe are globally connected a nd th the ey re aw ey’r ey war are e off and they’re aware issues without ut those tho ose s being bei e ng gategat atee-

kept by older people,’ observes Youth Specialist (Discipleship) Jo Taylor. ‘They are connected to young people in Ukraine, for example.

These things are in their everyday and they are seeing it unfiltered.’

Young people have participated in justice issues within the Army many times in the past.

The organisation’s work against modern slavery was galvanised at Roots, where a 24/7 prayer programme took place at the youth venue, leading to a string of events around the territory.

In the past year, a number of students have signed up to become anti-trafficking advocates and are going through training.

Most notably the climate crisis has been a lightning bolt for action, with young people joining other Salvationists and Christians for a caring for creation worship service and march in London last year. The territory’s network of Environmental Champions currently includes several young voices.

‘When you give young people the

Successful applicants will need to…

Commit to the forum for at least 12 months.

Attend three meetings throughout the year – one in person, the rest online.

Participate in sub-groups to develop recommendations and initiatives.

The first meeting is on Saturday 23 March at William Booth College.

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Salvationist 13 January 2024

only help set the agenda; they will be the solvers, the campaigners. It’s full participation to create real and lasting change.’

‘We don’t want to do for, we want to do with,’ affirms Jo. ‘We are being intentional from the start to ensure this is not just a talking shop to hear what they say and that’s it. Agreed by leadership are mechanisms by which the forum will report to leadership and they will then respond to those presentations.’

‘The fact that we have leadership who are up for that is important,’ says Nick. ‘I say this a lot when I talk about justice and reconciliation, but the Kingdom of God is disruptive.

It disrupts the way of the world, it disrupts who we are and disrupts business as usual. I say bring it on because we know this is how God works.’

Anyone connected with the Army in this territory between 14 and 25 can apply to join the forum. The aim is to assemble a group that is passionate and diverse.

‘We want experience and wisdom in the room and that comes from a breadth of experience,’ says Jo. ‘It’s exciting, because we’ll learn new things, hear new things and get new perspectives, and this is potentially the only place that will happen.’

‘Children and young people are leaders – like adults, some are loud and upfront, while others quietly influence those around them,’ adds

Jonny. ‘I am really excited that the forum will give an opportunity for young people to combine their leadership and their passions to influence their peers, the Army and wider society to take action, joining with God in the ministry of justice and reconciliation.’

‘If you’re a young person with a passion for justice, we need you,’ sums up Nick. ‘Not only do we believe that you can make a difference through this, but the world needs people who are willing to step up. We need our young people to be doing that in The Salvation Army, because we believe it can change the world.’

‘And we need all types of people,’ continues Jo. ‘If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t feel comfortable speaking in a group or is nervous about filling in a form, that doesn’t matter.

Get in touch and we’ll work it out.’

Jonny adds: ‘If you know someone you think would be interested, give them the form. Work through it with them. Encourage them.’

‘People love to talk about stories of the Army in the past,’ says Nick, ‘but I believe fresh stories are going to unfold that we’re going to be able to tell for the next generations to come.

This is the beginning of some of that.’

O For more details and to download an

application form, go to salvationist. org.uk/youthforum or email childrenyouth@salvationarmy.org.uk.

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Picture: Louise Norton, CAFOD

opportunity to get involved, they join up,’ emphasises Jo. ‘Our job is to take that spark and support, resource and nurture it.’

One of the forum’s aims is to develop understanding of the connection between justice and reconciliation.

‘Lots of people talk about justice but, from a Christian perspective, I don’t think you can talk about justice without reconciliation,’ reflects Nick. ‘We’re not doing this because Extinction Rebellion or another organisation wants us to do something about climate justice.

We’re doing this because this is what followers of Jesus do. The ultimate goal is not just to win moral or political arguments or defeat injustice. It’s about what comes beyond that: reconciliation.

It’s the building of a peaceful world, one where people are reconciled to one another and God. It’s about us all learning what that means together.’

Working together is key to the forum’s design. Supported by territorial leaders and the Children and Youth Department, it will provide a platform for young people to highlight justice issues and propose strategies as well as take action, increasing participation in local, regional and national justice and reconciliation initiatives.

Jonny says: ‘We could ask young people what justice issues they recognise and then go and discuss those. We could say “these are the issues” and ask them to help bring about change. But our aim is to ask them: “What are the issues? How can we support you to raise these and work towards reconciliation?”

‘Through the forum they will not

TERRITORIAL STRUCTURE UPDATE

Handing over Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant, chair of the Structure Co-ordination and Design Group (SCDG), provides a final update as the group concludes its work

A

T the end of a Sunday morning meeting, when we’d considered how we could better love God and love others, the corps officer concluded with this challenge: ‘The meeting is over, but the service is just beginning.’ That’s a very Salvation Army challenge! We are activists. We know meeting for worship is essential to give us the energy and passion we need to be faithful and fruitful disciples of Jesus.

However, we don’t meet for meeting’s sake. The challenge General William Booth gave to his eldest son, Bramwell, still resonates with the Army today: ‘Go and do something!’

For the SCDG, the meeting is over, but the service is just beginning. In this final update, I must start by thanking the members of the SCDG who invested significant time, energy and wisdom into the project over the past three years.

We decided not to use external management consultants, so all the work was done in addition to existing responsibilities. This saved the Army a significant amount of money and, we believe, resulted in better outcomes because we relied on the professionalism and skills already within the Army. Thank you, friends – yes, we are all still friends, despite all the challenging discussions!

We were also helped significantly by Cabinet, which received progress reports at every meeting. Working closely with territorial leadership ensured there were no surprises as the proposals developed.

We were also helped by countless Salvation Army people, like you, who attended forums, completed the 2022 survey, participated in Divisional Design Groups, asked perceptive questions and helped the SCDG cut through processes and structures that have frustrated or burdened you as you seek to love God and love others through the Army.

We have prayed hard, listened hard and taken a long hard look at what we do and why. The work is not over.

There is lots to do to achieve the three desired outcomes of the project: 12

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transformation, integration and streamlining. However, progress has been made and it is the right time for the SCDG to hand over responsibility for the work moving forward.

This month, we will submit the Project Completion Report and a handover plan to Cabinet and SATCo. The proposal is for the Territorial Operations Board to be given responsibility to monitor the implementation of the handover plan during 2024 so we continue to improve ‘how we do things around here’ in the service of God.

What’s next?

The five main teams at Territorial Headquarters (THQ) are taking the lead on several pieces of work.

Chief Secretary’s Office The Chief Secretary’s Office will be continuing to review how things are done, including how well the new processes are working to ensure local mission flourishes and how we live out the culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and release. A review of our boards and councils is ongoing.

Several initiatives are underway to ensure the territory has mature and capable leadership who enable the Army’s mission to be delivered so that people and communities flourish across the UK and Ireland. There are also developments to assist local leaders in gaining the capacity This will ensure data management is and skills to take on more responsibility streamlined, integrated and provides for local mission delivery. verified, reliable, up-to-date data for decision-making. However, creating a data model for a complex organisation Business Administration This service has a variety of tasks that will such as ours is a large undertaking and will take time. improve our processes and capability in Additionally, you told us that the carrying out practical tasks going forward.

For example, we heard that it’s frustrating current bandwidth in corps is not enough for streaming purposes, so the IT for local mission expressions to be asked team continues with its rollout of WAN for data a number of times and for constant and wireless upgrades and replacements verification, so the team is leading on a of corps infrastructure. Property is single data model that allows different progressing its ambitious plan to ‘make it datasets to work together and, as far as easier’ (see Salvationist 25 February 2023). is technically possible, means data is In order to provide better access to requested once and used many times.

Structure Co-ordination and Design Group members Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant, Chair

Major Paul Kingscott (since July 2021)

Major Richard Waters, Project Manager

Major David Taylor (until December 2021)

Commissioner Jenine Main Major Howard Russell Andrew Avison Claire Anderson Major Gregory Morgan (until December 2021) Jo Mosley (until June 2021) Alex O’Hara (since July 2021) Major Beverly Baker (since July 2021)

better to improve the work/ministry environment for officers, envoys and employees. As part of this, there is a review of support, oversight and release processes, to dovetail with vision, values and mission priorities.

Mission

financial reports, Finance is working to provide a new feature to the finance system in readiness for the 2024/25 financial year. The team is also working with a Franklin Covey programme called 4DX to significantly improve the timeliness of invoice payments. Further work is ongoing to improve training and user guides.

Personnel Our employee and officer/territorial envoy teams continue to find the best ways to track culture change measured against our values behaviour framework so they can identify where we can do

Mission will take the lead on investing in local mission with divisions, as well as in conversations around effectiveness of new mission roles and the viability of corps. Already there are projects planned for process improvements, such as the digitisation of corps rolls and improving the local officer appointment process, as well as integration of chaplaincy roles across the territory, which are currently managed by individual departments such as Older People’s, Homelessness and Mission Services. Work is ongoing to improve our chaplaincy services. A new emphasis on mission focus groups to increase integration in local mission delivery is also planned.

A new set of 14 divisional maps has been produced to illustrate all our local mission expressions, including those operated by Saha (our housing association) and SATCoL (our trading company). You can access the maps at salvationist.org.uk/our-territory. There is an ongoing investigation into mapping software that could work with our data to provide everyone access to up-tothe-minute digital maps, but this will take time.

Communications Work is ongoing to strengthen our internal communications system to both

Major Kathy Taylor (January to May 2022) Major Roger Batt (until December 2021) Captain Berri McKenna, (since January 2022) Captain Vicky Crawford (since January 2022) Paul Burr (since November 2022) Major Hilarie Watchorn (since February 2023)

our members and employees and volunteers. Membership communications have been improved through the launch of two additional Salvationist channels – online (salvationist.org.uk) and Salvationist Radio.

Employee, volunteer and officer communications will be improved when the new OurHub intranet is launched in the latter part of 2024. This is being designed for mobile first rather than desktop first.

Divisional Headquarters (DHQs) This change process is not only being led

by THQ. The 14 DHQs have been given greater freedom to adjust their structures and staffing to ensure they are working in the most effective manner for their context. All DHQs will be facilitating and developing mission focus groups and divisional advisory councils to keep God’s mission at the heart of all they do and will reduce local administrative pressure with divisional administration support. Several new mission worker posts have been introduced to enable more local mission delivery.

The Chief Secretary’s Office will continue to welcome your feedback and questions.

Please email transformation@ salvationarmy.org.uk so your comments, questions and contributions continue to help us be the people and Army that God longs for us to be. To God be the glory!

LIEUT-COLONEL DEAN PALLANT Secretary for Communications THQ

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ARMY UPDATES

MUSIC

INTERNATIONAL

Exciting month for General’s home territory NEW ZEALAND AND FIJI THE international leaders joined the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory for an exciting month of celebrations, including the 50th anniversary of the Fiji Division and the ordination, commissioning and appointment of six lieutenants in New Zealand.

Celebrations commenced on Friday with the welcoming of General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham back to New Zealand and a graduation ceremony for the Defenders of Justice session.

On Saturday, the international leaders were present for the ordination, commissioning and appointment of six lieutenants. The General thanked them for ‘every “yes” given in surrender of their will to God’s purposes and plans for their lives’.

Commissioner Bronwyn added that she hoped ‘the Spirit would fill each of them with knowledge, wisdom and understanding’.

The following weekend, the General, Commissioner Bronwyn and senior leaders travelled to Fiji for the division’s 50th anniversary. The full weekend of celebrations was held in the capital city, Suva. The anniversary had an overarching message of Marching On: 50 Years Strong and followed the theme Founded on Faith, Inspiring by Hope, Serving in Love.

General Buckingham shared that there were ‘powerful testimonies, prayer in many languages, joyous worship and cultural performances over a full weekend of festivities’.

The ceremony included the General enrolling 21 soldiers, which was a source of great joy. ‘I’m delighted that the first soldiers I enrol as General are from my home territory!’ he said.

A highlight of the weekend was Saturday’s march of witness through downtown Suva. A tropical downpour did not deter the hundreds of Salvationists present, who marched, cheered and sang in the rain. As the General preached his final message of the visit, encouraging ‘Fijian Salvationists to keep going for another 50 years’, he concluded by asking the congregation, ‘Are you with me?’ In response, hundreds of Salvationists, young and old, moved to the front of the arena to stand with the General in a public declaration of commitment to the mission and ministry of the Army in Fiji.

The General is pictured with members of Suva Central Band. – AR 14 00

Salvationist 13 January Day Month2024 2023

HADLEIGH TEMPLE The highly anticipated visit of the International Staff Band was a weekend of spiritual blessing, challenge and inspiration. On Saturday afternoon, the dozen children who form the learners’ band took part in a workshop with four ISB members. In the evening, the ISB provided a programme of varied compositions bringing glory and honour to God. On Sunday, the young people enthusiastically joined with the ISB in ‘Merrily We Roll Along’. The Sunday meetings, which included an afternoon concert, were a time of further joy, fellowship and music. – WJ

INTERNATIONAL

UKRAINE Major Brad Watson (Australia Territory) has been deployed in Ukraine for the past two months assisting the Eastern Europe Territory and their work supporting people affected by the war with Russia. His role involved helping co-ordinate humanitarian aid. The United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that almost half the entire population is in need of some kind of aid. ‘Being in Ukraine with an active war was a confronting scene, and to witness children and families having to live in this constant danger was even more alarming,’ he shared. ‘The support that we are providing is far-reaching, and we can see it is making a difference to the people of Ukraine.’ Major Brad (second from right) is pictured with General Lyndon Buckingham and members of International Emergency Services at International Headquarters. – AR

ADDICTIONS THQ In response to nearly 5,000 drug-related deaths in England and Wales during 2022, the Army has called for all police officers to be equipped with Naloxone. The drug temporarily reverses an opioid overdose to allow time for emergency services to arrive. The Army is also calling for NHS emergency departments, mental health trusts and ambulance services to issue take-home Naloxone kits for those at risk of opioid overdose. – AR

COMMUNITY

INTERNATIONAL

Bergen Prison opens new Cameo centre NORWAY PROGRAMME Co-ordinator Rachel Crooks (Prison Ministries Unit) visited Bergen Prison for the opening of its new Cameo centre.

In 2022, a cohort of Norwegian prison staff travelled to the UK to observe Cameo programmes at work within the prison system. As a result, the programme has commenced within the prison system there.

Major Yury Zelentsov, director of the Army’s prison ministry in Norway, Bergen Prison chaplain Lieut-Colonel Bernt Olaf Ørsnes and Harald Asaune, governor of Bergen Prison, have worked closely to ensure the new Cameo centre at Bergen Prison provides a place for safety, community and inclusion for older prisoners and those with additional mobility needs.

The opening of the new purpose-built centre included speeches from prisoners, prison staff and Salvation Army workers, a local shanty choir, refreshments and fellowship.

Rachel spoke to prisoners who said that the Cameo staff are caring and understanding, which makes them feel understood and valued. – RC

FUNDRAISING CARLISLE Following a 70-mile sponsored walk around the city’s streets, Marjorie Richardson presented £100 to corps officer Captain Mel Scoulding. The walk celebrated Marjorie’s 70th birthday, and she decided to split the money between The Salvation Army and a local hospice. – WJ

Fullness of life for furry friends EDINBURGH GRANTON THE corps held its first pet blessing ceremony after the fortnightly Paws Pantry pet food bank.

Corps chaplain Territorial Envoy Andrew Howe, who delivered the blessing, said: ‘This ceremony is a way of acknowledging the blessing that a pet can be for someone who is lonely or isolated, the happiness and learning animals bring to children, or simply the selfless joy of looking after one of God’s creatures.’

The community café is a warm and pet-friendly space for owners to relax and meet for a chat, tea, coffee and cake before taking advantage of the food bank and the optional pet blessing afterwards.

Community Programme Manager Lorraine Duncan said: ‘The Paws Pantry has been a huge success. It is in place to hopefully prevent people needing to give up their pets as costs increase.’ – AR

HOMELESSNESS

Army calls for funding increase SCOTLAND THE Salvation Army has expressed concerns that the increased funding for local government, announced in the Scottish Budget, isn’t enough to match growing need.

Secretary for Scotland Colonel Sylvia Hinton welcomed the increase, but warned that it will not provide local authorities with enough resources to prevent homelessness, support those who are already homeless and address rising future demand.

Colonel Sylvia said: ‘We see every day how important wrap-around support for substance use and mental health is to preventing repeat homelessness and delivering impactful programmes such as Housing First. Scotland has some of the strongest statutory rights in relation to homelessness, but these measures are only meaningful if councils have the resource to meet their responsibilities, respond to rising demand and access adequate housing supply.’ – AR

Salvationist wants to hear from you Corps press representatives can email salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Good quality pictures may be included.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BROMLEY TEMPLE

TRISH Edwards was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Iain Hudson, testifying how a whole ‘village’ of corps folk had helped in her Christian journey. Trish was first invited by her cousin to attend the community choir more than six years ago and was then invited to attend the Sunday meeting. After being encouraged by choir friends and supported in prayer, Trish took the step to being formally welcomed into the family of believers. She witnessed that, through it all, God used his people to guide and nurture her faith. – IH

BRIGHOUSE

MARVELLOUS was enrolled as a junior soldier by Major Joy Allchin (Leeds West Hunslet). Marvellous has attended the corps with his mum and two younger brothers since they moved into the area two years ago. The corps family has been blessed and encouraged to witness Marvellous become a junior soldier, the first in the corps for several years. – CC

BECCLES

WREXHAM

NORMAN and Susan Hancock and Selina Lloyd were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Captain Claire Durrant. Norman and Susan were welcomed as adherents a few months ago but wanted to take a further step. Selina came to the corps through the luncheon club and older people’s ministries programme and wanted to make a deeper commitment. – CD

AFTER 35 years away from the corps, John Barker was re-enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Territorial Envoy Harry Woods. In his bold testimony, John spoke of God’s favour, the fervour of the corps in sharing Jesus, and the fabric of the corps, which God is mightily using to bind the fellowship together. John chose the song ‘I Stand Amazed in the Presence’ (SASB 466) and was supported by fellow soldiers Kevin Crack and Graham Jones, as he signed the Soldier’s Covenant. John is pictured with his wife, Sandra, Territorial Envoy Harry and Suku Welsford holding the flag. – LW

PETERSFIELD CLAIRE Souter was enrolled as a soldier and Anna Oliffe was welcomed as an adherent by previous corps officer Major Linda Read. Both are relatively new to the Army, having moved to the area and previously attended other churches. Anna chose the song ‘Be Thou My Vision’ (SASB 573) and Claire testified, saying that The Salvation Army was where she belonged. – SF

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TRIBUTES

ALLEN COUSINS LEEDS CENTRAL

CHRIS WALFORD BROMLEY TEMPLE

ALLEN was born in 1945 and grew up in Wymondham, Norfolk. He met Penny at Peterborough Citadel, and they married in 1975. In 1977 they moved to Yorkshire for work. They soldiered at a few corps before settling at Leeds Central. Allen was an active soldier at each.

Allen and Penny’s son, John, was born in 1983. In later years Allen became grandad to Mieke and Lukas.

A quiet, unassuming and gentle man, Allen was a man of many layers. He had several different interests. As a young man he had been a weightlifter and an athlete and had trained with Geoff Capes. He loved sport and in retirement took up playing golf. He was also a member of the Yorkshire Fellowship Band.

A husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and faithful soldier of the Lord Jesus Christ, he was greatly loved and will be sadly missed. – LC

CHRIS was born in 1931 in Cuba to missionary officers.

In 1946 the family arrived at Bromley Temple. Joining Barclays Bank, he travelled the world for over 20 years.

A torchbearer, bandsman and songster, he married Valerie Myers in 1958. Mark arrived in 1960 and Carole in 1964.

Chris became YP and corps treasurer, then corps secretary. He loved being YP band sergeant. Leading the teen Bible class challenged him to rephrase his faith in their terms.

Through his business and Army skills he created the unique financing scheme for the refurbishment of Bromley Temple.

Into his 80s, Chris regularly cycled down to work at the corps café, yet he was happiest playing games with his four grandchildren.

Ill health forced a move into care. As his speech failed, he still conveyed his trust in God. His carer said: ‘His eyes showed pure love for others.’ – MW

PEARL AMBROSE STOWMARKET THERE will be band members and songsters across the country who will remember fondly being billeted – and fed to bursting – by Pearl’s abundant hospitality! Born in 1937, Pearl grew up at Stowmarket. She took a full part in corps life, becoming singing company leader. She remained at Stowmarket until she met and – in 1959 – married a young man, Peter, from Ipswich Bramford Road. Moving to Ipswich, Pearl subsequently took the role of deputy songster leader and, in due course, the even more important role of mother to Steven and Libby. The family eventually moved back to Stowmarket, where Pearl again took her place in the songsters.

She loved singing, but even more she loved being a mum and, later, Nannie to her four grandchildren. Finally, battling Alzheimer’s disease, music continued to speak to and through her, as she sang her faith to all with a heartfelt ‘Hallelujah’! – NW

BRIAN GREENSIT RIPON BRIAN Greensit (1937–2023) was born into a family from Melmerby, a village near Ripon. He became a member of Ripon Corps soon after the corps relocated to conduct Sunday worship close to home. He and his wife, Pat, came along to a carol service and became the ‘backbone’ of the corps.

Brian loved to be involved in all aspects of corps activity. He became a soldier and later served as corps sergeant-major. He served for many years as a herald, offering prayers for his regular customers.

Brian’s responsibilities included being a welcomer at the lunch club and co-leader of Young at Heart. He was always present at Bible study sessions and prayer meetings.

He was especially involved in all fundraising activities, including raising money towards building the corps hall. His Victoria sponges were legendary!

Brian leaves behind Pat, his wife of 51 years, and three sons, Sean, Graham and Roger. – PC

VALERIE WALFORD BROMLEY TEMPLE VALERIE was born in 1934 to officers Eddie and Trissie Myers. Their example of God’s love in action shaped her honest, searching, bedrock faith.

A founding member of the London Girl Songsters, she moved to Bromley and married Chris Walford in 1958. Mark and Carole were born there, as well as grandchildren Ruth, Becks, Jonathan and Anna.

Her heart of service offered many hospitality. Balancing family life with Chris’s career, she was involved in local officer appointments, youth work, music sections, Gowans and Larsson musicals, the interchurch Top of the Pew quiz team and as the corps ecumenical representative.

Their lasting legacy – the unique financial package that enabled the extension of the hall – was completed in retirement. Moving to Rosebery Manor Care Home, Epsom, in 2020, Chris died in May 2023 and Valerie in early November 2023.

Deeply missed, the corps gives thanks and says well done, good and faithful servant! – MW

JOAN STEVENS STAPLEFORD JOAN was born in London on 16 April 1936 within the sound of ‘Bow Bells’ – a true cockney.

Family and The Salvation Army were the most important things in her life.

She grew up attending Limehouse Corps then Romford Corps. Joan married John on 24 May 1958 and moved to Clapton Congress Hall. They moved to West Hallam when John retired in 1989 and soldiered at Stapleford Corps.

Over the years, Joan had been a songster, company guard, singing company leader and assistant corps secretary. She was admitted to hospital and then to a nursing home, where she was promoted to Glory. Joan leaves a son and daughter, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. – FT Please note members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

ENGAGEMENTS

Effective 12 December 2023

General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

MAJOR HEIDRUN EDWARDS, Deputy Director of Business Services and Staff Chaplain, WBC Business Services Unit

Sun 21 Jan Regent Hall (Welcome to the territorial leaders)

Effective 14 December 2023

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill

Appointed

MAJORS ANITA AND NICK COTTERILL, Lowestoft Citadel and Lowestoft South TE HARRY WOODS, Beccles Effective 4 January 2024 LIEUTENANT EMMA FRANCIS, Divisional Support Officer, South West LIEUTENANT JANE ENTWISLE, Hull Citadel TE JULIA ANYON, Oldham Fitton Hill Effective 10 January 2024 TE JASON WEARMOUTH, Hexham Effective 1 February 2024 MAJOR DAVID BLOWERS, Territorial Mission Officer (Roma)

Local officers appointed DEP BM GUY LEVER, Colchester Citadel

Wedding anniversaries

Tue 23 Jan ICO Lecture

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Sun 14 Jan WBC (Territorial Appointments Conference) Tue 16 Jan Westminster Abbey (Thanksgiving Service for Baroness Boothroyd)* Sat 20 Jan Regent Hall (Sing in the New Year) Sun 21 Jan Regent Hall (Welcome to the territorial leaders)

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sun 14 Jan WBC (Territorial Appointments Conference) Sat 20 Jan Regent Hall (Sing in the New Year) Sun 21 Jan Regent Hall (Welcome to the territorial leaders) *Commissioner Paul Main only

Emerald (55 years) LIEUT-COLONELS MICHAEL AND RUTH WILLIAMS on 27 January

Retired officers’ birthdays MAJOR WILLIAM MYERS, 95 on 21 January

Promoted to Glory DAVID PATERSON, Leeds Central DE LILY SCOTT, Market Rasen SONGSTER MAURICE SCOTT, Market Rasen

NOTICES

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Resource Calendar The 2024 EDI resource calendar highlights key dates to help you with planning and raising awareness of cultural, religious, or social events to reach out to your communities. The calendar is available on OurHub for anyone with a UKI Salvation Army email address. To request a copy of the calendar or for more information, email equalityandinclusion@salvationarmy.org.uk.

MALCOLM PRICE, Dudley IRENE ADAMS, Sunderland Millfield SONGSTER JEAN CASH, Shaw, on 17 December 2023 MAJOR JAMES BENSON from his home on 26 December 2023

Bereaved SYLVIA PATERSON, Leeds Central, of her husband David Paterson GILL PRICE, Dudley, of her husband Malcolm Price, Stephen Price and Elizabeth Kyle of their father RTD BM PAUL ADAMS and Carole Davis, both Sunderland Millfield, of their mother Irene Adams BANDSMAN DONALD CASH, Shaw, of his wife Songster Jean Cash MAJOR DENISE BRINE of her mother Pam Ransley MARION RICHARDSON, Staple Hill, of her daughter Sally Richardson, Susan Hadfield of her sister MAJOR STEPHEN SLADE, Major William Slade, Bandsman Len Slade, Sheffield Citadel, and Bramwell Slade, Wombwell, of their sister Sue Hirst 18

Salvationist 13 January 2024

Join The Crescendo Leaders of music or arts-based groups and activities are invited to join this free Music and Creative Arts (MACA) forum on local approaches to outreach. Three leaders will share how they carry out outreach in their locations. The forum will take place over Zoom at 8pm on 15 January. Email music@salvationarmy.org.uk for details.

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship Sunday Worship this weekend is led by Captain Callum McKenna (William Booth College). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

O Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

ADVERTS

NOTTINGHAM WILLIAM BOOTH MEMORIAL HALLS, KING EDWARD STREET NG1 1EU Sunday 28 January

ADVERTISING RATES ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT

Were you ever a singing company member at the Halls during the last 50 years? You are invited to a special reunion Sunday for the

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RETIREMENT OF SINGING COMPANY LEADER KRYSTYNA PARRY

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(51 years’ service) 3pm buffet tea, 4pm meeting (we hope all members past and present will join to sing together) Please let us know if you are coming. Contact Majors Robert and Julia Jepson: nottingham.wbmh@salvationarmy.org.uk

SHEFFIELD CITADEL, 12 PSALTER LANE S11 8YN Saturday 3 February

BELONGINGS: A MACA MUSICAL Tickets: £10 available online at Ticket Source

Tel: 0114 266 8127 sheffieldcitadel.co.uk

ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.

RECRUITING NOW YOUTH WORKER RAMSGATE, KENT The corps is looking for a youth worker to develop and lead its Salary Unqualified: £23,186 youth and young adults' ministry. You will be a practising Christian with experience to lead youth and inspire volunteers – £26,121 per annum Qualified: in activities involving an age group of 11 to 30 years. You will £27,667 – £29,647 have the support of the corps leaders, divisional youth team and church leadership to implement the vision of nurturing and per annum Working hours encouraging young people in their Christian faith.

35 hours per week Key responsibilities: including Sundays O Develop and deliver the youth programme and activities in and some evenings the church for young people (11-18) and young adults (18-30) (but time taken back O Provide pastoral care of the young people associated with for this) the corps Applications for O Recruit, inspire and lead a team of volunteers to help provide part-time or job a varied programme of activities share interest in this O Provide an environment and activities that nurture and role will be considered encourage young people in their Christian faith Contract O To pioneer and implement new youth ventures and Fixed term for 3 years ministries resulting from community consultation Details O To network with local agencies, schools, colleges and other 25 days' annual leave churches to deliver detached youth work provision in response plus bank holidays to community needs, such as the Starfish programme (pro rata for part-time); The successful candidate(s) will be able to demonstrate: contributory pension O A Christian faith with a passion for working with young scheme; season people to bring ministry to the community of young people O A qualification in youth work or willingness to study towards ticket loan; employee assistance a qualification, or evidence of transferable qualifications programme O Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with Closing date young people in different settings O Previous experience of organising and leading a wide range Sunday 28 January Interview date of youth activities Week commencing The role has an occupational requirement that the successful Monday 5 February candidate must be a practising Christian. Please ensure you use the correct job profile when completing your application form and clearly mark down whether you are qualified or unqualified.

For full details and to apply, visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/jobs Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK, Enhanced DBS Disclosure. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality in the workplace.

PHILIPPIANS 4:13 New Living Translation

SALVATIONIST