Salvationist 13 June 2020

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QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

ARCHBISHOP LINKS DEATH RATE TO RACISM ‘The endemic and longstanding racism’ in society is one of the reasons for the disproportionately higher death rate among black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) [communities] from the Covid-19 virus, the Archbishop of Canterbury [said]... when the government-commissioned report Disparities In The Risk And Outcomes Of Covid-19 was published by Public Health England. The report says that members of BAME communities, as well as the elderly and those who live in the most deprived areas, have suffered most from the coronavirus.

In a video posted on social media, Archbishop Welby said: ‘The black and ethnic-minority communities here in this country... and in many other places have been hit terribly by Covid, disproportionately.

‘There are many reasons for that; we don’t understand them all… But underlying what is happening is certainly, as a cause, as a root of what is happening, the endemic and longstanding racism, white supremacy that has affected so tragically the societies in this country and in the United States.’

He continued: ‘Covid is a tragedy of unbearable depth... Perhaps, out of this tragedy... we can each find ways of reaching out to different communities, of saying that we care where they are disproportionately affected, we care about injustice, and we are going to take action, crying out to God and acting daily to transform our society.’

‘HOW GREAT THOU ART’ IS THE HYMN OF CHOICE TO INSPIRE HOPE DURING COVID-19

THOUSANDS OF HOMELESS ‘BACK ON THE STREETS BY JULY’

‘How Great Thou Art’ is the most popular hymn for inspiring hope during the coronavirus pandemic, a poll by Cafod has found.

The hymn is based on a 19thcentury Swedish poem that was translated into English in 1949 by missionary Stuart K Hine.

It came out on top in a Twitter poll by the Catholic aid agency to find out the hymn people are finding most helpful during the pandemic...

Cafod’s head of fundraising and participation, Jo Kitterick, said… ‘We have seen so many people turning to hymns and prayer to help them through this difficult time... ‘“How Great Thou Art”... reminds us that we can put our trust in God, because God has made such an amazing world for us all to live in.’

Thousands of people experiencing homelessness in hotels could return to the streets at the end of the month if the government does not provide councils with urgent funding, a charity is warning.

Crisis said contracts between local authorities in England and hotels are due to terminate at the end of June, due to current government money running out.

Almost 15,000 people are housed in emergency accommodation... after local authorities moved people... during the coronavirus outbreak.

But Crisis director of policy Matt Downie said... Crisis has received ‘no indications at all’... that more money is forthcoming...

The government said any suggestion it is rowing back on its commitment to support rough sleepers is untrue.

Christian Today

ITV News

CHURCH MUST LEAD THE WAY IN SPEAKING OUT AGAINST RACISM IN THE UK, SAYS PENTECOSTAL LEADER Pentecostal leader Pastor Agu Irukwu has spoken of his sorrow and anger over the death of George Floyd in the US. The black man’s death at the hands of white police officers in Minneapolis has triggered widespread protests across the US and in the UK. Pastor Irukwu, who heads the Redeemed Christian Church of God in the UK, said... he was ‘appalled’ at the sight of a police officer kneeling on Floyd’s neck, and added that his cries of ‘I can’t breathe’ had ‘haunted’ him...

He said Floyd’s death had ‘brought to the fore the very deep faultlines that exist in the American society around the issue of race’...

The Jesus House pastor said that while Christians should pray for their American brothers and sisters, they must also speak a message of love and forgiveness, and stand against injustice even ‘at great cost’.

He also urged the Church not to be silent in the face of institutional racism.

Church Times

Christian Today

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

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CONTENTS

RESPONDING TO WHAT WE SEE IN a 2013 article called ‘The man who changed my life’, Archbishop Desmond Tutu wrote: ‘I believe the most defining moment of my life occurred when I was about nine years old, outside the Blind Institute in Roodepoort where my mother was a domestic worker. We were standing on the stoep when this tall white man in a black cassock and a hat swept by. I did not know that it was Trevor Huddleston. He doffed his hat in greeting my mother.

‘I was relatively stunned at the time, but only later came to realise the extent to which it had blown my mind that a white man would doff his hat to my mother. It was something I could never have imagined. The impossible was possible.

‘I subsequently discovered that this was quite consistent with Trevor Huddleston’s theology: that every person is of significance, of infinite value, because they are created in the image of God.’ That biblical concept makes every kind of discrimination wrong and, bearing recent events in mind, means that black lives matter.

In his message on page 4 the Territorial Commander refers to Jesus standing in the synagogue at Nazareth and reading a passage from the prophet Isaiah that includes the words: ‘He has sent me... to set the oppressed free’ (Luke 4:18). The TC goes on to say that we need to act ‘wherever that oppression is in the world, in our society and, dare I even say it, where it is in our Salvation Army’. These are bold words, followed on page 5 by a statement from our territorial leaders about standing against racism.

The question is, how do we stand against it? Perhaps the first thing is to listen humbly to our brothers and sisters who experience racism. As a white person I can’t pretend to fully understand what it’s like to be a black, Asian or minority ethnic person in our society. But I know from friends and colleagues that they can be undervalued, excluded, disrespected, discriminated against and even endangered. We need to hear and acknowledge those experiences and the emotions they create. Not only will that help us understand, it should also make us examine our own attitudes and behaviour.

The territorial leaders’ statement says the Army ‘stands in solidarity’ with people who experience racism. Along with listening, solidarity is an important response. We stand with and support people experiencing racism, recognising that what we do for them is not as significant as what we do alongside them.

We must also speak out. That means calling for a just society where institutional racism is eradicated as well as challenging racist views and practices when we encounter them in our daily lives.

Jesus said he had come to proclaim ‘recovery of sight for the blind’ (Luke 4:18), and our response to racism begins when our eyes are opened to see people as God sees them. What might seem like an insignificant gesture by Trevor Huddleston – who would later become an anti-apartheid activist and Anglican bishop – was, in the context of that place and time, an unimaginable sign of respect. It came about because he saw that everyone was made in the image of God. When we see people that way, we will know it is right to listen, to stand in solidarity and to speak up.

Quotes from the media

2

Message from the Territorial Commander

4

News

5 to 8

Diary of self-isolation Just keep swimming! Week 11

9

by Major Karen Sandford

News feature 10 and 11 Army rises to the challenge in island communities Feature 12 and 13 ‘I could not have made it without them’

by Shanelle Manderson

Reflection Long live love

14

by Bandmaster Adrian Lyons

Viewpoint 15 Overcoming isolation and loneliness

by Chris Stringer

Bible study 16 and 17 The Holy Spirit will guide you

by Major Howard Webber

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley

Viewpoint Building resilience

18 and 19

by Captain Ben Cotterill

Reflection God’s provision

20

by Brian Colley

Preview All The World

20

previewed by Kevin Sims

Letters Announcements

21 22 and 23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Major Martin Hill

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

Salvationist 13 June 2020

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Being who we were made to be

W

E recently celebrated Pentecost, but it’s still time to celebrate because Pentecost was never meant to be a one-weekend wonder. We should be celebrating Pentecost and be receiving from the Holy Spirit to enable us to live for him day by day.

In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul said ‘be filled with the Spirit’ (5:18). Literally it means ‘be being filled’ – a present continuous tense. It is not just a one-off experience but something that is happening now and will continue to happen. So I want to encourage you to go on praying that God, by his Holy Spirit, will do his work in and through us.

In the online Pentecost meeting I mentioned the blue gloves I’d seen on the ground. I’ve also seen discarded masks. They reminded me of words of Jesus in the Message paraphrase: ‘You can’t hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known. You can’t whisper one thing in private and preach the opposite in public.

The day is coming when those whispers will be repeated all over town’ (Luke 12:2 and 3). In other words, there is no place in our lives for hypocrisy. There is no place for us to make out we’re something that we are not.

In these days of lockdown I think we have an unexpected space to take stock of where we are – individually and as a Movement. I’ve come to the conclusion that the antidote to hypocrisy is found in the Spirit of God. In 2 Corinthians 3 Paul explains that we should be people who show the glory of God in our lives. And when I ask myself what the Spirit is saying to us in these days, I’m more and more convinced that he is calling us to be a people who reflect the glory of God. Paul refers back to Moses receiving the Ten Commandments. When Moses came back down the mountain his face was radiant – so radiant that it had to be covered because the brightness was too 4

Salvationist 13 June 2020

great for the people to look at. Paul says: ‘We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to prevent the Israelites from seeing the end of what was passing away… Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit’ (vv13–18).

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is a freedom to become who we were designed to be – people with masks down who reflect the likeness of Jesus.

As we give ourselves to him and allow his likeness to be seen in us, and his glory to shine from us, we’re able to behave like Jesus. It’s not just about enjoying the blessing – it’s about us being the blessing and living out the Jesus life in our communities.

At the start of his ministry Jesus stood up in the synagogue at Nazareth and read words from Isaiah: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim

freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour’ (Luke 4:18 and 19).

When we’re filled with the Spirit, we can’t help but reflect the light and life of Jesus. But for what reason? To preach good news to the poor, to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, and to release the oppressed – wherever that oppression is in the world, in our society and, dare I even say, where it is in our Salvation Army.

On Pentecost Sunday many of us sang the words: ‘Great is the darkness that covers the Earth,/ Oppression, injustice and pain./ Nations are slipping in hopeless despair,/ Though many have come in your name./ Watching while sanity dies,/ Touched by the madness and lies./ Come, Lord Jesus, come, Lord Jesus,/ Pour out your Spirit we pray./ Come, Lord Jesus, come, Lord Jesus,/ Pour out your Spirit on us today’ (SASB 220). We see the images of oppression and madness around us, and we Spirit-filled people must stand up and be counted so that the glory of God might be seen through us confronting injustice, confronting oppression and pain wherever they might be.

Will you pray with me that the Lord would fill us with his Spirit for his glory?

Will we pray that God would release us from the masks and that we might be true people of the word and of the Spirit and of Jesus Christ?

Pentecost is not just a weekend wonder. Let’s go on exploring and receiving in these days.

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER O This message is based on a video released by the TC that can be viewed at facebook.com/SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/user/salvationarmyvideo

NEWS

COMMUNITY

One less worry for those in need TORQUAY PARTNERING Torbay council and the NHS, the corps has become a food hub and member of the Torbay Food Alliance.

The corps has been at the forefront of food provision over the past two years – giving out 46,458 meals to individuals and families in one of the most socially deprived towns in the UK – but adapting to the coronavirus lockdown means the food bank operates differently.

However, it is positioned to meet the need across Torquay, having rebuilt food supply chains, referral procedures and its delivery service

from scratch.

‘It’s hard work,’ said Corps Community Manager Andy Bichard, ‘but if we can give a mother one less worry, a father one less sleepless night, a child a less stressful household to live in, it’s worth it. It’s why we do what we

do – now and for as long as there is need in our community.’

‘As we continue to engage with our community through the food bank we pray that God’s love for everyone is evidenced through our actions,’ added corps officer Captain Chris Baker. – AB

SNETTISHAM When the lockdown was announced adherent member Rita Dempsey began offering a book and jigsaw exchange to people during her daily exercise.

Her service has become popular and she has safely made contact with many new people. Community Care Ministries Secretary Wendy Ward is ensuring more than 30 homes receive the War Cry, Salvationist and corps newsletter. – AK

46,458

meals given out at Torquay PAGE 5

1880

Belfast Citadel opened PAGE 6

174%

rise in households receiving food support PAGE 6

Salvation Army confronts racism A statement issued by territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill THE Salvation Army in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland affirms that it stands in solidarity with people around the world (including our own members and employees) who experience racism, both in its blatantly ugly and its more insidious forms.

Our hearts are heavy and hurting because it is increasingly obvious that black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people in the UK continue to suffer institutional racism in all areas of life. Our hearts

are heavy and hurting because racism infects the Church – and we acknowledge and confess that this is true even in parts of Salvation Army life.

We are deeply concerned by the research showing that people from BAME groups in the UK have suffered disproportionately from the coronavirus pandemic. We recognise this is a critical time and today we want to recommit to our journey of togetherness with people from BAME communities and respond with positive action.

In these days following Pentecost, and the celebration of the gift of the Holy Spirit to the world, we increasingly understand our responsibility, in the words of Jesus himself, not only ‘to proclaim good news to the

poor’ but also ‘to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour’ (Luke 4:18 and 19). The work of ‘recovery of sight for the blind’ and setting ‘the oppressed free’ is a priority in the fight against racism.

Consequently, The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom and Ireland will intentionally seek ways to confront and fight racism wherever it is found. We will take positive action to ensure that our culture is increasingly one in which our members, employees, service users and officers, of majority and minority ethnic origin, feel included – that is, respected, valued, trusted, safe and have a sense of belonging.

£6,956 raised to help feed others PAGE 7

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NEWS

ARMY NEWS

Army warns of ‘poverty tipping point’ UK A SNAPSHOT food distribution survey of corps during one week revealed an increase of up to 174 per cent in the number of households receiving food support.

The Army has opened largescale food distribution hubs across the country to bulk-buy essentials for an initial supply of approximately 22,000 food parcels. With each parcel costing at least £16, the Army has launched a fundraising appeal to ensure it can keep helping families on the edge.

In Govan, officers helped a 94-year-old woman who hadn’t eaten for five days. A newly formed Salvation Amy food distribution hub at Cradley Heath sent out 355 bags of food in just one week. In Cambridge, the Army is spending more than £1,000 a week feeding vulnerable people and rough sleepers put up in hotels and guest houses.

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill said: ‘We are approaching a poverty tipping point. Our immediate focus is scaling up our provision to get food and support to people who need it now. We are also looking at the long-term picture. Our Employment Plus advisers will help people find work, we will continue to support stretched families juggling minimum wage jobs with childcare and our debt advisers will help people make ends meet.’ – AR O Support the Army’s coronavirus response by visiting salvationarmy.org.uk/donate or calling 020 7367 4800 Is your corps adapting to the coronavirus crisis through innovative ministry opportunities? Salvationist wants to hear from you.

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

ANNIVERSARY

Corps celebrates 140 years BELFAST CITADEL DESPITE the coronavirus crisis, corps folk were determined to mark the 140th anniversary of the first Irish corps.

In May 1880 five women were dispatched by William Booth to start the work of The Salvation Army in Ireland. As the anniversary weekend approached, social

media was used to share video transcripts of War Cry reports about the success of the mission, as well as archive videos of corps activities over the years.

A live meeting has been held on Zoom every Sunday during the lockdown. During the anniversary meeting, a number of messages from past and present territorial and divisional leaders, former corps officers, soldiers and friends of the corps were shared.

Corps officer Major Mark Waghorn delivered a message

challenging corps folk to recognise the faithfulness of those who have served in the corps over the years. The songsters brought ‘My Jesus, I Love Thee’ to the tune of ‘The Mountains Of Mourne’.

The meeting concluded with a How Do You Do testimony time, where many reminisced about those at the corps who had influenced them. The meeting was shared on social media and distributed on DVD to those who had no internet access. – NM

ARMY NEWS

UKI As well as collecting toiletries for hospital wards, store managers from The Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd have used their sewing skills to support the NHS. Managers made and donated scrubs to hospital staff members, as well as headbands to protect the ears of those wearing tight masks. Elaine Robison, cluster manager from Edinburgh, and her 86-year-old mother also created a tribute to the NHS outside their home from 600 handmade ribbon roses. – AR

UKI Territorial Director for Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Major Kathy Betteridge appeared on BBC Radio 4's Sunday and spoke about the innovative ways the Army is continuing to serve survivors during lockdown, such as through virtual help sessions with support workers. Listeners were also reminded to keep their eyes open for victims of modern slavery, as many of the industries they are often forced to work in have shut, leaving people desperate and sometimes turning up at food banks. – AR Send your copy to salvationist@salvationarmy. org.uk. Good quality pictures will be included with reports.

NEWS

INTERNATIONAL

NEWS IN BRIEF STRAWBERRY FIELD Zoom prayers with a fire pit were held on Pentecost Sunday. A testimony and a poem written by café staff member Sandra were also shared on Facebook.

The poem concluded with: ‘We recognise the gift of the Holy Spirit/ At Strawberry Field, we will treasure every minute./ We all stand together to celebrate our beliefs,/ We ended our day with what we wanted to achieve.’ – LB GREAT YARMOUTH The coronavirus pandemic relief work by the corps has received a boost thanks to a £12,330 grant from Norfolk Community Foundation, which will help provide food for the community during lockdown. It will fund takeaway lunches and supplies for the food bank and food parcel deliveries for three months. – AR

Army schools find creative solutions IHQ ARMY schools around the world have been adapting to coronavirus restrictions to continue the education of more than 400,000 students.

In many communities, The Salvation Army offers the only form of public education available. There is also a focus on children with special needs and ensuring that girls have access to education.

Teachers in Guatemala have been providing learning resources and setting work for students via social media or by post. In Darjeeling, India, the Army’s school for deaf students has been using Zoom to deliver online teaching incorporating sign language. Zoom has also been used effectively in Sulawesi, Indonesia, to provide real-time teaching for students with internet access, and to train teachers for remote and rural schools.

FUNDRAISING

In Jamaica, Army-run children’s homes have provided residents with online teaching tools, enhancing materials from nearby schools.

Teachers in Liberia have posted work to pupils or delivered it personally to their homes. Tests are still in place and marks are being collected.

Schools in Poland have been closed for more than two months and The Salvation Army in Warsaw has stepped in to provide online classes and help young people prepare for their national exams, while Praga Północ Corps is offering extra-curricular activities in craft, music and sport.

Inpyung Technical High School in South Korea has used online content, social media, radio and TV to help students maintain momentum.

Schools Director Howard Dalziel (IHQ) said: ‘We will continue to seek to ensure that children from poorer communities can have access to simple technology that will enable them to learn – whether at school or within the home.’ – AR BUCKIE Buckie Ladies Football Club, Buckie Thistle Football Club and Buckie Thistle Supporters Club have provided substantial financial donations to the corps food bank. The food bank has seen demand quadruple since February.

Player Callum Murray is pictured presenting a cheque to corps officers Majors Bruce and Isobel Smith. – BS

CLEVEDON Online ministry during the lockdown includes a Zoom quiz on Sunday afternoons, a prayer meeting on Thursday evenings and an occasional ‘front room’ trio session with cornet, baritone and trombone played by the bandmaster and his family. Corps officer Captain Lorraine Cole is also sending out Sunday’s Bible message to corps folk via email and video. – JP

EVENT

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BIRMINGHAM CITADEL Since lockdown corps members have recorded more than 60 ‘Thought for the Day’ videos and posted them on social media and YouTube, enabling those in isolation to feel connected to church friends and family. Corps folk have also played music in the streets following the 8 pm Clap for Carers on Thursdays to witness to their communities and lift spirits; this has initiated many conversations about The Salvation Army. Pictured are Lauren, Jamie and Rob O’Connor. – RO Salvationist 13 June 2020

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EVENT

BEFORE

Dreams ignite at online pioneer gathering

Army calls for better coronavirus testing in care homes

THQ MANY Army events have had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic, but this year’s pioneer gathering, titled Passionate Believers, Daring Dreamers, was held online instead.

Fresh expressions enablers Majors Andrea and Andrew Vertigan (THQ) pulled the event together, which they described as ‘a Holy Spirit-anointed time’.

A number of guest speakers from across the UK covered subjects including pioneering as a Movement, discerning the Holy Spirit’s direction, living in lament and exile and fostering missional imagination.

Pioneer leaders, officers, envoys, cadets, candidates and soldiers from the territory joined together for the event, as well as people from the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the USA. Hearts and minds were stirred and stretched as delegates reflected on the message that the Church can’t go back to how things were before, that it was time for a radical and faithfilled step into the future. Many delegates said that their passions and dreams had been ignited by the event.

‘The Army has within its DNA the desire and ability to think creatively and proclaim the good news in relevant and creative ways,’ said Major Andrew. – AR

AFTER

FUNDRAISING BRISTOL CITADEL Corps officer Captain Alison Friday and Louise Elcox, who manages the donation centre run by the Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd in Filton, shaved their heads as part of the 2.6 Challenge. They raised a total of £6,956 to help feed people in the St Pauls area. Since the lockdown began more people have been accessing the food bank or need support for household utilities due to spending more time indoors. – AR

COMMUNITY

BALLYMONEY Corps officers Major Jane-Marie and Lieutenant Tim Cook sent out crocheted hearts along with a short Scripture verse to let people in the area know someone is thinking about and praying for them. Lieutenant Tim said: ‘As part of our befriending service we speak to a lot of people on the telephone who are lonely, self-isolating or have lost loved ones.

Social isolation was already a reason for people being lonely but this has increased during the coronavirus crisis.’ – AR

For information about advertising in Salvationist telephone HANNAH HOLDEN on 020 7367 4883 between 8 am and 2 pm Mon, Wed and Fri. We accept adverts by post or email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk Sorry we cannot take copy over the phone.

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

ARMY NEWS

THQ THE Salvation Army has written to MPs with Salvation Army care homes in their constituencies to ask for a better coronavirus testing regime.

The Army operates 12 care homes and is concerned that staff members and residents are being put at serious risk due to testing not being applied consistently across areas of England. Any patient admitted to hospital is tested for coronavirus, regardless of whether they have symptoms, and the Army is calling on the government to expand this strategy to include care homes.

The letters urge the MPs to ask Health and Social Care Minister Helen Whately what she is doing to ensure that the department’s guidelines for the testing of residents and staff members are being followed in a consistent and comprehensive manner; what the department is doing to ensure inconsistent approaches to testing are addressed; and whether assurance can be given that sufficient resources are being allocated to ensure that health protection teams are able to make the impact required. Director of Older People’s Services Elaine Cobb said: ‘Staff and residents need access to testing so that anyone who is asymptomatic does not inadvertently spread coronavirus.

It’s an urgent measure that will save lives.’ – AR STAPLEFORD A team of volunteers with links to nearby schools has been distributing on average 40 food parcels per week to those in need within the community during the coronavirus outbreak. The food parcels have been funded by donations and the corps community fund. – FT

FEATURE I Self-isolation

JUST KEEP SWIMMING! DIARY OF SELF-ISOLATION WEEK 11 Major Karen Sandford (Harlow) concludes her day-by-day account of life in lockdown DAY 71 Tuesday 26 May My Bible app encouraged me to stay focused on Jesus today. Cue noise, stress, things to do and people to ring.

This morning, though, I decided to focus. After all, there was worship to prepare, Scripture to read and songs to consider.

In these moments I’m grateful to God for the gift of his Spirit – calling, leading, challenging and bringing clarity to the chaos.

DAY 72 Wednesday 27 May Residents of Testosterone Towers have been up to all sorts of things today: doing some work at the new house, supporting a socially distant loved-one, catching stuff thrown at us from all directions, earlymorning swimming in a nearby lake, keeping on top of social media and reports of my ‘Channel swim’ fundraiser, visiting corps members, collecting and delivering the weekly food donations – and taking a few moments to catch my breath. Life seems so turbulent at the moment, and I’m not the only one – many people face difficulties of all kinds. Pausing to breathe won’t make our difficulties go away but it will help remind us that we are loved with every breath we take.

DAY 73 Thursday 28 May My hair-straighteners broke today. As if life isn’t difficult enough. I’m joking, of course – it doesn’t compare with the difficulties facing people at this time.

Something on the news made me angry. I believe in grace. I believe in mercy. I believe in forgiveness. But that doesn’t mean I should accept everything.

I try not to hold on to anger, though, because when I do, the only person who gets hurt is me – and perhaps my family.

As I swim in the cool of the evening I look forward to the water encompassing me and washing away the stresses. I’ll pray for the situation.

find yourself wanting. But people generally want you for you, not for what you believe you are lacking. We are who we are, because that’s what God intended.

DAY 74 Friday 29 May

DAY 76 Sunday 31 May

The publicity for my fundraising has taken off, involving lots of calls and emails. I’m hoping all the extra work will help raise funds for the corps.

I made a few pastoral phone calls this morning, which included conversation, sharing in worship and prayer, and in the afternoon we met up with colleagues (at a social distance) who have become friends.

Isn’t it wonderful when you feel heard and understood? Over the past few days we’ve had conversations that have helped and encouraged us. They were desperately needed, and I’m grateful for those who took the time.

We had a corps Zoom gathering this morning.

It feels odd to celebrate Pentecost separately, so it was good to connect and pray for each other.

Then it was a quick change for my appointment with BBC Anglia. I made sure I was wearing an Army hoody, holding a water bottle with the logo, and even attached my brooch to my costume for the swimming footage. I’ve never worn uniform as much as I have during the pandemic.

Gerald Coates prophesied to The Salvation Army in the early 1990s, and part of it was that we would know when to wear our uniform and when to leave it off. That’s always resonated with me.

No matter what we wear, who we are shines through anyway, positively or negatively.

‘Let your light shine before others, that they may see... and glorify your Father in Heaven’ (Matthew 5:16).

DAY 75 Saturday 30 May The fundraising swim has taken on a life of its own, mainly due to a PR consultant, Chloe Walden, who got in touch with me as part of a community initiative and has been publicising the swim and the work of Harlow Corps.

It started gently: a few emails here and there with links to websites that had printed the story. Then on Thursday I was asked to do a recorded interview for radio. It was broadcast on Heart Essex this morning and sounded like I was reading the shipping forecast. This afternoon I was invited on to the BBC Essex radio station, and tomorrow BBC Anglia are sending a TV camera for the evening news.

What a time for my hair-straighteners to break.

I rang the Army’s media office for advice.

They sent me some tips, but the key thing was to ‘just be yourself ’. I made lots of notes, stuck Post-its everywhere, went over and over them – and guess what? I didn’t need them. It turns out that being myself was OK after all.

It’s easy to weigh yourself in the balance and

DAY 77 Monday 1 June May has passed in a flash, and here we are in June with my ‘Channel swim’ almost done – just two miles to go – and lockdown restrictions changing again.

We have had a day off. Full days off have been few and far between since lockdown began, but I think it’s time to have a break. At least for now.

So I’m not going to be writing every day from now on.

Thank you for sharing this journey with us.

Thank you for the love, encouragement and prayers. Pray for us as we pray for you. And remember: God’s got this and he’s got you.

Just keep swimming!

O To read Karen’s daily posts in full, go to karensandford.blogspot.com

Salvationist 13 June 2020

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NEWS FEATURE

Army rises to the challenge in island communities IHQ ISLAND communities such as Tonga and Samoa have escaped the worst of the coronavirus pandemic, most likely due to their remote location and early introduction of travel restrictions. In many geographically remote locations, however, the Army is still providing enhanced services because of the economic side effects of the coronavirus lockdown.

Deputy Co-ordinator of International Emergency Services Damaris Frick says that the Army is often already embedded in these communities and respected by village leaders and other local groups. The Army’s ‘strategic focus on disaster preparedness and risk reduction’ also means that it is well positioned and ready to help. Nevertheless, meeting needs can still pose a significant challenge.

‘Responding to emergencies in island communities can be logistically difficult,’ Damaris says. ‘Supply chain disruption and transportation are the biggest challenges to overcome, alongside the limited storage facilities in several remote locations.

‘Often, The Salvation Army has quite a small presence in these places, which could be outstripped by demand were it not for careful planning and investing in good relationships with communities and other agencies ahead of any incident.’

Samoa

Samoa SAMOA In the capital, Apia, children’s books, educational material, hand sanitiser and 100 boxes of bottled water have been donated to the Army to distribute to families in need.

Teams have been able to dispense these items along with food parcels and vouchers.

With many businesses unable to operate, many families are struggling to make ends meet due to unemployment. For some, the hard day-to-day struggle to earn a living has become almost impossible.

The Army has also been caring for its own family. In recent weeks, a team has been providing copies of Bible studies, sermons, children’s activities and newsletters, as well as visiting members each week, because of limited access to the internet.

Regional leaders Lieut-Colonels Rod and Jenny Carey have been blessed by how much these supplies and visits have delighted the congregation.

AMERICAN SAMOA The Army was able to assist a father and daughter stranded on the island when the only airport was closed, sourcing accommodation through a strategic partnership with Airbnb. The Army also provided food parcels and meals during their extended stay.

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

TONGA The Archipelago hasn’t recorded a single case of coronavirus*. This is a relief for their healthcare system, which would be ill equipped to manage an outbreak and the resulting strain on its resources.

The border closure in March left the Army’s regional leaders, Captains Kenneth and Catherine Walker – who were in New Zealand for their daughter’s wedding – unable to fly back into the country. They communicated remotely with corps officers who were distributing food parcels, along with packs of soap and hand towels to promote handwashing and good hygiene practices.

‘A number of Tongan families live hand-to-mouth on a weekly basis,’ says Captain Kenneth. ‘Those families who received food parcels were over the moon, simply because they weren’t allowed to go out.’

The Alcohol and Drug Awareness Centre in Nuku’alofa reopened when permitted and church services have recently resumed, with social distancing of 1.5 metres between each person. However, the country still has restrictions in place on the size of gatherings and which locations can open. The Tongan culture is a sociable, community-based culture, so not being allowed to gather, congregate or be with family is difficult.

Hawaii

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Twenty-two coronavirus cases have been confirmed, with two deaths*. In the capital, Saipan, the Army has overcome supply chain challenges and is providing emergency meals and food boxes to the most vulnerable people in the archipelago. Approximately 3,380 prepared meals have been served, along with about 50 food boxes, each containing sufficient supplies for at least four meals.

REPUBLIC OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS The closure of the international airport has restricted all but essential movement. The Salvation Army, as part of its disaster preparedness operation, is liaising with local, state and federal government partners on how best to meet needs in the widely dispersed community, with a particular focus on continuing existing emergency feeding programmes.

FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA Emergency and disaster preparedness training has recently taken place in the states of Chuuk and Pohnpei, ensuring that the Army is ready to respond, as required by local authorities.

GUAM The Salvation Army is focused on providing essential food to vulnerable individuals whose situations have become even more untenable. The island territory has seen 161

coronavirus cases*, with 5 deaths believed to be connected to the illness.

Prior to the pandemic the Army was helping to feed an average of 40 Guamanian families each month – about 150 people. By early April staff were creating food parcels for the same number of people every four days.

On its peak day the Army served the equivalent of 97 people, providing vital supplies of fruit, vegetables and juice, as well as items such as nappies.

Hygiene supplies, including body wash, toothbrushes and toothpaste, are also being distributed to vulnerable families. Emotional and spiritual care is being offered where appropriate.

Army personnel are also supporting frontline nurses and assistants who are treating sick patients in a healthcare system with limited capacity. Underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships, The Salvation Army received a generous donation of 200 sacks of rice, 100 cases of tinned meat, 20 cases of banana chips and 150 cases of coffee and drinks from island partner Quality Distributors.

HAWAII, USA Island communities often have specific needs, so, as well as meeting the needs of people, the Army has partnered the Greater Good organisation to source a shipment of 26 pallets of animal feed. It is working with the Hawaii Veterinary Medical Association (HVMA) to ensure that this gets delivered to those in most need.

HVMA President Aleisha Swartz explained: ‘The Salvation Army was instrumental in co-ordinating the food delivery from California. It has been delivered to animal shelters and human food service distribution partners on Kauai, Oahu, Māui and Hawaii islands. We will continue to seek support for pet owners in financial distress so that they can care for their family members during this challenging time. We know the importance of the human-animal bond is perhaps more important than ever during this time of social distancing.’

‘While some of these smaller-scale responses may be eclipsed by the terrifying statistics in larger countries, it’s important to remember the individual as well as the millions,’ says Damaris.

‘Every single person affected by this pandemic is known and loved by God. The Salvation Army will continue to meet needs in the most appropriate ways possible in every community in which it serves. We are grateful to our highly skilled and compassionate personnel, our volunteers, donors, corporate partners and prayer supporters who make our responses possible, whether in London, Lima, Luanda or local villages around the world.’ – AR O Get

regular updates on the Army’s Covid-19 response around the world by visiting sar.my/covid19

* World Health Organisation data as of 26 May 2020

Salvationist 13 June 2020

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FEATURE Employment Plus

‘I could not have made it without them’ Shanelle Manderson discovers how Employment Plus (Birmingham and Warrington) is bettering lives

H

AVE you ever felt that life’s opportunities aren’t open to you?

The feeling that the world is always against you can really get you down. Julian Beardon’s simple request is this: never give up.

Julian (not pictured) turned his life around after taking part in the Inspirational Life Coaching Programme (ILCP), run by The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus service (Birmingham and Warrington).

The programme, which has been running for more than two years,

delivers one-to-one training to individuals referred by the Shaw Trust. Employment development co-ordinators work with assigned participants on a variety of areas such as social capital, financial inclusion and housing and tenancy sustainment. Addressing such issues allows people to improve their lives.

‘My life has been a real struggle,’ says Julian. ‘My childhood was tough. I was abused by my parents, locked away for days in my bedroom and constantly fighting with my brothers. Luckily, at the age of six, I was adopted into a caring family.’

Julian spent his school days hiding behind art, books and the piano, as this was easier than making friends.

However, college was a turning point.

He found himself presented with the choice of freedom – a fresh start. He was able to get a job and buy what he wanted while living at home with his adoptive parents rent-free. Unfortunately,

this led to some unwise spending.

‘I made various mistakes, including contacting my birth family, and became immersed in a world of drugs,’ explains Julian. ‘I found myself making bad choices and behaving badly at home, so my adoptive parents asked me to leave the family home and not return.’

Experiencing homelessness at the age of 17, he was constantly sofasurfing. His relationships failed, his substance abuse increased, he struggled to keep jobs and afford food and his mental health was completely shattered.

At the age of 21 Julian finally found a place to call home, but this also brought challenges. It was supported living accommodation, which meant the council paid £900 a month for the hostel’s rent. Julian was advised by professionals not to work or study but to wait until he was provided with his own place, otherwise he would have to cover the monthly cost.

Unable to understand the situation he was in, family and friends began to show a sense of distrust in Julian. He began spending his nights gaming and his days sleeping, sinking into total despair.

Unable to afford outings or food, he would smoke cannabis or drink with friends to help ease his mental struggles and to make the days go faster.

After waiting for two years to be housed by the council, Julian was faced with another year in supported living accommodation due to increased demand for social housing. He had hit rock bottom. A large amount of his universal credit went towards debt owed as a result of an accident at the hostel.

He was thin, depressed, and feeling broken and lonelier than ever.

‘I felt the best thing to do, if anything

‘

At the age of 21 Julian finally found a place to call home, but this also brought challenges 12

Salvationist 13 June 2020

’

Employment Plus staff working with participants before the coronavirus lockdown

else went wrong, would be to end it all,’ he says. ‘I no longer cared about my well-being. I had gone so long not eating healthily that if I didn’t eat for a couple of days, that seemed fine. I felt the world was against me. No one really cared, so what was the point?’

Noticing Julian was struggling, his work coach at Job Centre Plus enrolled him into the Work and Health Programme with the Shaw Trust, where he met Lucie. She helped him look into work placements and improve his CV and interview skills before referring him to The Salvation Army for the ILCP. There he was introduced to Employment Development Coordinator Julie Howarth.

‘On our first appointment Julian was scruffy and unkempt, with no hope for his future,’ explains Julie. ‘So I encouraged him to begin dressing as he used to, praised his great exam results and his obvious intelligence and natural charm. We put together a plan to move forward. He desperately wanted to get out of supported living but felt stuck.’

They discussed his unhealthy lifestyle, and Julian admitted he may have an eating disorder and that he was suffering with anxiety, depression, low self-worth and was having suicidal thoughts. Julian was advised to see his doctor as a matter of urgency. He promised that he would change his eating habits immediately and agreed that he needed to make a big change in his life. Julie promised to support him and asked him to reach out to her if he felt he needed to talk.

Six months after their first meeting Julian was doing amazingly well.

‘He was cooking nutritious meals, sleeping earlier and swimming four times a week,’ enthuses Julie. ‘He attended all appointments on time, dressed smartly and was more confident in himself. For the first time in years he saw he had a bright future.’

The real Julian was emerging but Julie felt the next step was to get him out of supported living so he could find a job, become independent and get his self-respect back.

After hours of speaking to many

‘

They gave me a reason to leave my bleak existence behind and, when things were tough, they always had my back and helped me through

’

different staff at the council, Julie managed to find somebody who was able to help. They found Julian an affordable home to rent without any restrictions, which enabled him to find work and regain control over his life.

With continued encouragement and support Julian is drug-free, in a stable relationship and has regular contact with his adoptive parents and brother.

Despite being furloughed from his new-found job, this has not broken him.

He is currently applying for care worker roles.

‘I am not yet healed from my life, nor do I think I ever will be,’ says Julian. ‘But Lucie and Julie, two amazing women, enabled me to turn my life around within a couple of months. They gave me a reason to leave my bleak existence behind and, when things were tough, they always had my back and helped me through. They didn’t judge me; they only advised and pointed out the route forward. I can’t thank them enough.

They have been my saviours in such hard times and I could not have made it without them.’

Salvationist 13 June 2020

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REFL RE FLEC ECTI TION ON REFLECTION

Long live love

Did you know...?

Before they were known as Abba, the group’s first hit in 1970 was about a War Cry seller. It was called ‘Hej Gamle Man’ and is available on YouTube and music streaming platforms

Bandmaster Adrian Lyons (Colchester Citadel) looks back at a Salvation Army connection with the Eurovision Song Contest

T

HE Eurovision Song Contest is one of many events that were cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. On the evening of 16 May, when the final was due to be broadcast, BBC One aired a number of Eurovision-related programmes. The evening began with an edition of Pointless Celebrities, which was won by Dana and SuRie – although they failed to come up with a pointless answer to win cash for their charities.

Dana then finished the show by reprising her 1970 Eurovision winner, ‘All Kinds Of Everything’. It is a lovely song, reminding us of the days when a simple ballad sung by a schoolgirl was enough to win.

Since that hit 50 years ago Dana’s career has included singing, broadcasting and television presenting.

She was a member of the European parliament from 1999 to 2004 and last year, aged 68, she returned to the recording studio to release her latest album, My Time.

Dana is a devout Christian and a lovely person. A few years ago I was privileged to host her for an excellent evening in Colchester when she mixed singing with chat about her life, career and faith.

A quiz question could be: Dana won the 1970 Eurovision Song Contest for Ireland with ‘All Kinds Of Everything’, but what was the UK entry that came second? The answer is Mary Hopkin 14

Salvationist 13 June 2020

with ‘Knock, Knock Who’s There?’

In the early 1970s, unlike in recent years, the UK entry had a habit of just missing out on the top spot. In 1971, Clodagh Rodgers represented the UK and came fourth with ‘Jack In The Box’.

Strangely, I remember ‘Jack In The Box’ but have no recollection of Monaco’s winning entry ‘Un Banc, Un Arbre, Une Rue’ (‘A Bench, A Tree, A Street’) sung

by Séverine, but perhaps that is my problem. In 1972 the New Seekers sang ‘Beg, Steal Or Borrow’ and finished in second place, while in 1973 Cliff Richard only managed third place with ‘Power To All Our Friends’.

In 1974 Olivia Newton-John sang a great song for the UK. In the history of popular music, however, ‘Eurovision 1974’ means only one thing: Abba.

When BBC One polled the British public on the greatest Eurovision entry the outcome was surely never in doubt: that year’s winning entry, ‘Waterloo’. The other songs didn’t stand a chance.

This is a shame because Olivia Newton-John’s entry was all about The Salvation Army. The song (written by

In 2013 Switzerland’s Eurovision entry was a Salvation Army group called Takasa, which performed ‘You And Me’, also available on YouTube

Valerie Avon and Harold Spiro) was called ‘Long Live Love’ and, if you are of a certain age, you may remember the lyrics ‘Sister Anna carrying the banner for the Sally Annie band’.

I suppose in some ways it was always going to pose a challenge as a Eurovision entry because the imagery would only be recognised in countries where Salvation Army open-air ministry was a feature of life. Given that, the song did remarkably well to come joint fourth.

Since 1974, the imagery of the Army’s open-air witness has become much less familiar to the public. Nevertheless, other aspects of the song stand the test of time and are relevant today.

Long, long live love, Love is to care, Caring and sharing, Long, long live love.

All the kids, like ten tin soldiers in a row, Follow hand in hand; Sister Anna, carrying the banner For the Sally Annie band.

Singing songs of praise and glory, We all learnt to love their story, Good things are comin’ to ya, Glory, glory, hallelujah.

Long, long live love, As long as we live, Living for giving, Long, long live love.

On a wet day, dry day, great to be alive day, Brother takes the stand, Cymbals ringing, everybody singing With the Sally Annie band.

Just a band of happy people, Teachin’, preachin’ love is equal When you feel the Spirit move ya, Glory, glory, hallelujah Long, long live love, Love is to care, Caring and sharing, Long, long live love, love, love, love, love.

Oh… long, long live love, As long as we live, Living for giving, Long, long live love.

ADRIAN IS ONE OF HER MAJESTY’S INSPECTORS (SCHOOLS)

VIEW POINT

Overcoming isolation and loneliness Chris Stringer considers how we can support vulnerable people impacted by the lockdown

T

HE lockdown that we find ourselves in during the coronavirus pandemic is a challenge for most of us. That challenge can be much more significant for people who have a disability or mental health problem, or who are the parents of a child on the autism spectrum or with learning disabilities.

Many people with a disability are shielding (staying at home) due to underlying health conditions. Some are getting food parcels from the government, while others are struggling to get regular supplies of food through online deliveries.

Emergency legislation introduced by the government in response to the pandemic means that local authorities are focusing care and support on those with the highest needs. As a result, some other people have had their support reduced.

This is having an impact on adult social care, which includes working-age adults as well as older people and children.

In some areas letters have been issued to people with a disability, including young adults on the autism spectrum, asking them if they would wish to be resuscitated in the event that they caught coronavirus and suffered a cardiac arrest.

Children on the autism spectrum or with learning disabilities have had their routines disrupted and their daily activities suspended. The impact of these changes has been felt not only by the individuals but also their parents and siblings. Initially, this group was also affected by only being able to leave the house once a day for exercise; outdoor activity is an important aspect of support for many. Fortunately, this was quickly acknowledged by the government and this group is now able to exercise more frequently.

An increase of ÂŁ20 a week was made to universal credit, but not to benefits specifically for people who have a disability.

Given all this, it is no surprise that, since the lockdown came into place, research from the Office for National Statistics has found: O Almost half (45.1 per cent) of adults with disabilities reported being very worried about the effect the coronavirus pandemic is having on their life, compared with around a third (30.2 per cent) of adults without disabilities O Nearly nine in ten adults with disabilities (86.3 per cent) reported that they are very worried or somewhat worried O Nearly two-thirds (64.8 per cent) of adults with disabilities said coronavirus-related concerns are affecting their well-being O Adults with disabilities were significantly more likely to report spending too much time alone O Finding a way to stay in touch with friends and family remotely is the most popular action that is helping people cope while staying at home O Spending time with members of their household was a less frequent form of coping for adults with disabilities (41.9 per cent) than adults without disabilities (63.5 per cent) In talking with members of The Salvation Army’s Enabled fellowship, there have been some great examples of efforts made to ensure that they do not feel isolated. These include: O Receiving a weekly newsletter from the corps O Getting regular telephone calls from corps leaders and members to check on well-being and provide pastoral support O Undertaking shopping O Collecting prescriptions

O Pastoral

care visits (practising social distancing) O Receiving cards O Joining in with online worship For other members the experience has not been so good. They talk about a lack of contact with anyone.

So through Enabled, we have been: O Posting information and encouragement on the Enabled Facebook page: SalvationArmyFellowshipOf Endeavour O Circulating a newsletter electronically, providing news, encouragement and information on things to do during the lockdown O Providing online interactive music sessions with David Stanley from the Music Man project O Contacting members by phone, text, email and social media O Providing details to corps on Enabled members linked to them O Circulating weekly Prayer Network information O Providing information on how to access the audio version of Salvationist Do you know a corps member who has a disability and might be a member of Enabled? Do you have a friend or neighbour who has a disability? Are you able to find out how they are and if they need help with anything? This could be by phone, text, email or by knocking on the door (while observing social distancing).

You could make a real impact in the life of someone with a disability during these challenging times.

CHRIS IS LEARNING DISABILITIES INCLUSION DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, THQ Salvationist 13 June 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

The Holy Spirit will guide you Major Howard Webber reminds us not to fear when God calls us out of our comfort zone

LUKE 12:1–12

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OD’S imperative ‘do not be afraid’ appears in the Bible more than 300 times in various forms, such as ‘fear not’, ‘do not worry’ and ‘do not be anxious about anything’. We might well ask why that is. Surely it’s because our natural tendency to be fearful – to worry and be anxious – often paralyses us when it comes to obeying him.

Sometimes God calls us out of our comfort zone, where we feel safe and secure, into a world with which we are unacquainted and to challenges we feel unqualified to meet.

QUESTIONS God laid upon your heart something you are too frightened to do? What is it?

O When has fear prevented you from moving on with God? O Has

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

by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

As a young man, I went with a group of other young bandsmen for an evening swim in Soundwell Baths in Bristol. Our wives and girlfriends, not wanting to swim, sat in the area for spectators, chatting together. I declined an offer to join my friends in diving off the diving boards as I had never even dived off the side of a pool before.

However, with them suggesting that I was scared, I climbed up to the first board. The others climbed up to the top board and beckoned me to join them, telling me the lower board was for girls.

When I got to the top and saw how far away the water was, I decided I wasn’t staying. But someone pointed out that my wife and all the other girls were now watching. Scared stiff, I took my life in my hands, admitting to the others that I had never dived in my life before.

They were quick to give advice: ‘Keep your arms straight’ and ‘Keep your

head tucked in or you’ll break your neck!’

I left the board wondering whether that would be my first and last ever dive. It seemed an age before I hit the water. Surfacing to applause, the only negative result was my achy shoulders.

My foolish, young male pride led me to do it – not a very good motive, I must admit. But the point is that although fear and uncertainty about the outcome were still on my mind, I didn’t let those prevent me from making the dive.

Our study passage gives us a far better reason for not allowing our fears to control our response to what God desires. It is full of God’s reassurances.

QUESTION O What fears hold us back from doing what God would have us do or saying what he would have us say?

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

‘I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into Hell.

Yes, I tell you, fear him.’

(Luke 12:4 and 5)

When life sinks apace/ And death is in view,/ The word of his grace/ Shall comfort us through;/ No fearing or doubting/ With Christ on our side,/ We hope to die shouting:/ The Lord will provide!

(SASB 738)

‘Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.’

(Luke 12:6 and 7)

Prayer Father, we are amazed to discover how deeply you care for us and that you are interested in every detail of our lives. Help us to trust you, so that your Spirit can guide our words and actions.

Fear of what others might think or say, fear of not being adequately qualified, fear of making a fool of ourselves, and even fear of letting the Lord down might be factors that affect our decisions.

At the beginning of our study passage, thousands of people have attempted to draw near and hear Jesus. He chooses first to speak to his disciples. He warns them against hypocrisy, so prevalent among the Pharisees, and of the need for consistency between what they say in public and in private. He explains that a day is coming when all that is hidden will be exposed.

Our focus also needs to be on pleasing God rather than being fearful of people; we should let God take control.

Jesus makes it clear that we are precious in God’s sight. It’s mindblowing to think that God knows about everything in the entire universe, yet his focus is on this planet of ours. More

than that, his number one concern is you and me. It’s hardly surprising that David wrote: ‘What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?’ (Psalm 8:4).

Jesus couldn’t have expressed more plainly to his disciples how valued we are by God. Although sparrows might be of little value to us, ‘not one of them is forgotten by God’ (v6), and we are more precious to God than a multitude of sparrows.

In fact, God has an eye on every aspect of our being. He knows exactly how many hairs we each have on our head (see v7), even if, for some of us, that number is diminishing rapidly.

QUESTIONS do we estimate our value to God? O Why do we focus so much on how other people make us feel?

The Lord wants to undergird us with confidence to take him at his word and trust him. We may be put on the spot and not know what to say, but in verse 12 of our study passage, God assures us, as he did Moses in Exodus 4:12, that he will provide the words we need, although he may not give us what we need until we need it.

Not knowing what to say or do in response to an unexpected challenge, I have frequently found God faithful in answering my simple cry for help.

O How

MAJOR WEBBER LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BOURNEMOUTH

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

There are hundreds of sparrows, thousands, millions,/ They’re two a penny, far too many there must be;/ There are hundreds and thousands, millions of sparrows,/ But God knows every one and God knows me.

(SASB 396)

‘Whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.’

(Luke 12:8–10)

No strength of our own/ Or goodness we claim;/ Yet, since we have known/ The Saviour’s great name,/ In this our strong tower/ For safety we hide,/ The Lord is our power,/ The Lord will provide.

(SASB 738)

‘When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.’

(Luke 12:11 and 12)

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VIEW POINT

Building resilience Captain Ben Cotterill suggests seven ways to help us become more resilient in and beyond the coronavirus pandemic

R

EADY for some good news? It seems that we are looking out for each other in ways rarely seen in recent times; community spirit, neighbourliness and connectedness are being rediscovered; and pollution levels have drastically reduced.

At the same time, however, we’re experiencing profound changes that have rocked even the steadiest individual. This calls for resilience. So what exactly is it?

For a while, pre-coronavirus, I was able to study the concept of resilience in my work. I would define it as the ability of a person, community, organisation or business to bounce back from a shock or trend in their world, to adapt to the challenge it presents and even, in some cases, to transform the situation. So, I would like to share seven things that might help us become more resilient: ADAPT AND KEEP ON ADAPTING Resilience is not necessarily about getting back to doing what we used to do, but adapting to what we can do now.

Those people who can adapt will be more resilient and able to go on and achieve their mission or life goals. For example, churches that go online, businesses that create new models, teams that establish new ways of operating or households that make new, healthy life rhythms. This crisis might be the once-in-a-generation or lifetime moment that we’ve needed to focus on what is important to us as individuals, families, businesses, countries – and as a Church.

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

FIND PEOPLE YOU CAN RELY ON We aren’t meant to go through life alone. Everyone needs at least a handful of people who can be relied upon. They don’t have to be family, but the social networks we build will help us to be resilient. Church pastor Rick Warren says that we need people to walk, work, watch, witness and weep with us through life. Community is the answer to loneliness, so we must rediscover and reimagine it in days of unnatural isolation, extensive change and, for many, great suffering.

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‘

Community is the answer to loneliness, so we must rediscover and reimagine it in days of unnatural isolation

’

LEARN THROUGH THIS PROCESS We will be learning and creating ways of doing things that we will probably need again. This will include functional learning such as tips on how to home-school your children or how to virtually meet your doctor. But on a deeper level, the relative suffering we feel may provide a ‘teachable moment’, as theologian Richard Rohr has described it.

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USE MONEY WISELY Some businesses will cease to exist because of the pandemic and there are reports estimating that charities will lose a third of their annual income. Many people will need to save money like never before, others will need to release money into other people’s lives. Why not support someone whose business has had to close its doors? When news broke recently that a zoo in Sweden was bankrupt due to a lack of visitors, thousands of people bought annual passes and toy animals from their online shop. In the soldier’s covenant, soldiers promise to give as large a proportion of their income as possible back to the work of the Army. For some, the crisis might necessitate a reduction in personal giving; for others, it might mean an increase. Giving might need to start hurting a bit more.

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LEARN A NEW SKILL OR RHYTHM Don’t just do something, sit there.

Yes, you read that correctly – I hope.

The Army is an activist organisation, and many of us are on an emergency response footing. Could there be a temptation to share one’s productivity online or by other means in order to ensure people know we’re doing something? Others may have little alternative but to take some time to recalibrate and reflect. So why not learn a new skill or get that thing done that you’ve been putting off for far too long?

Explore Christian mindfulness, find new rhythms, take that online course, write that book, phone a friend with whom you have lost contact. You may have been given a gift of time you would previously have longed for – although I fully acknowledge that some people are busier than ever right now.

5

BE AS FIT AS POSSIBLE We can maintain some level of fitness within our own homes. Joe Wicks, emerging online as the nation’s favourite fitness coach, is leading the way for many. We must make use of the opportunities to get outside where possible and when permitted. We need to get as much sleep as we can, restricting our viewing of coronavirusrelated news just before bedtime. One aspect of resilience is our physical capacity to cope, so we are wise to treat our bodies as best as we can, which includes healthy eating.

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ALLOW FAITH TO GUIDE US THROUGH The Second World War had a big impact on the faith of our nation. Some saw God’s hand in bringing them through, while others could not set foot in a church again because of the horrors they had seen.

Communities that are united by a common hope and goal are more likely to be resilient. However, if our hope is in a God whom we expect to expel Covid-19 from the face of the Earth any minute, or at least ensure the protection of us and our families, then we may be in for a shock. God certainly has the ability to protect, and does at times, but he also endures with us in suffering. The Old Testament psalms, many of which

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are songs of lament, show that. This may be the season in which we learn how to lament and yet recognise a whole new dimension of hope that is in Jesus.

This may not be an exhaustive list but these seven responses could be a start to building resilience. Life will probably never be the same again but, once the anxiety subsides, we can plan. How we navigate our route through this unique time will prepare us for future challenges so that we can flourish in whatever way we hope or are called to be.

CAPTAIN COTTERILL IS SUPPORT OFFICER, INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS OFFICE, THQ Salvationist 13 June 2020

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REFL REFL RE FLEC ECTI EC TION TI ION ON REFLECTION

PREVIEW

A glimpse of All The World Kevin Sims, editor of The Salvation Army’s international magazine, introduces the latest issue

God’s provision Brian Colley (Clowne) continues his series of reflections on verses from Psalms But may sinners vanish from the Earth and the wicked be no more (Psalm 104:35)

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HIS psalm echoes the account of Creation and tells us about the establishment of an ordered way of life for humankind. It clearly states what God has provided for all forms of life, but in particular what is available to his people.

God’s greatness is seen in nature and in his provision, and the wonder of it all is that everything is planned in such a way that nothing is accidental or left to chance.

Psalm 104 offers a beautiful piece of reading, which has been called a poetical commentary upon the first chapter of Genesis.

However, it is seemingly spoilt by an ending that calls for the destruction of those who are wicked. Presumably the psalmist saw no place for imperfection in God’s perfect creation.

Everything has been provided by God and that final prayer has been answered by even more provision because he sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to provide salvation and change for sinners. It is therefore possible for this perfectly made world to be inhabited by people who are forgiven their sins and made perfect in Christ.

God has never stopped giving – all we need to do is receive.

His love has no limits, his grace has no measure, His power no boundary known unto men; For out of his infinite riches in Jesus He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

(SASB 30) 20

Salvationist 13 June 2020

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AM always inspired and moved by the stories I’m able to feature in All The World. At this time, with so much to be concerned about, I am delighted to share stories of hope, compassion, faith and inspiration. God is working through The Salvation Army all around the world to change people’s lives, and examples of these everyday miracles can be seen in every issue of the magazine.

Printed copies of the April–June issue were distributed in late March, when many countries were already in lockdown and others were beginning to recommend that people stay at home. This means that thousands of people who usually get their copy through their corps or headquarters may not have had opportunity to read its selection of inspirational stories of transformation from around the world. However, the issue has now been published online and can be accessed for free.

The cover story is from Bangladesh, where a group from the USA Eastern Territory went to see first-hand the difference being made in the lives of people who produce goods for Others, The Salvation Army’s ‘trade for hope’ initiative.

Film crew members David Giles and Joseph Halliday share about their behind-the-camera experiences filming Displaced, which shows how The Salvation Army in Brazil is responding with skill and compassion to a growing refugee crisis.

Other articles explain how the Army in Indonesia is responding to the Sulawesi earthquake, what it was like to be a Salvation Army chaplain during the Australian bushfire season and the plans being put in place by the Army as the number of older people grows internationally.

The July–September issue of All The World will be printed and distributed as usual, but people who would normally get a copy through their corps or headquarters are encouraged to take out a subscription so that a copy is delivered to them.

O The April–June

issue of All The World is available for free at salvationarmy.org/alltheworld O Annual subscriptions – four copies per year – can be ordered from SP&S at sar.my/atwsubu (UK addresses) or sar.my/atwsubo (rest of the world)

LETTERS

SALUTING THE CARE PROFESSION WE recently celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, who became famous during the Crimean War. Sadly, we are less aware of Mary Seacole, a contemporary of Florence Nightingale.

The Jamaican-born Mary had some basic medical knowledge, which she gained from her mother. She too Mary Seacole went out to Crimea and set up hospitals and clinics to treat and look after the injured soldiers.

Mary had until recently been forgotten, yet also made a significant contribution to medicine and nursing. A statue was erected of her in St Thomas’ Hospital in south London in 2016, which described her as a ‘pioneer nurse’.

Without doubt we are all proud of the work that is being undertaken by the staff in the NHS, particularly during this very difficult period. We are also proud of the way that new hospitals were erected in London and around the country. While I am full of praise for the military and civil engineers who have built these hospitals it is a shame that they were given the same generic name: Nightingale Hospitals.

My wife and I recently spent some time in hospital and it appears to me that a substantial number of the medical, nursing and ancillary staff we met were of the BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) community.

Sadly many of them have given their lives since the onset of this pandemic, and we remember their sacrifice.

Many Salvationists serve in the NHS, nursing and care sectors as well as community-based projects around the country, along with those managed by The Salvation Army. They are on the front line and I salute their dedication and commitment as they serve the present age.

David Newstead Birmingham

UNPAID CARERS DESERVE RECOGNITION TOO MOST unpaid UK carers are being stretched too far during this pandemic, as they navigate providing effective care round-the-clock or for a few hours to loved ones with illness or disabilities. Carers are holding families together, enabling loved ones to get the most out of life, making an enormous contribution to society and saving the economy billions of pounds. Looking after someone can be tough, juggling care with work and family life or even struggling with one’s own poor health.

We need to recognise, celebrate and appreciate the roles that unpaid caregivers are playing for family members or friends who cannot cope without their support.

Handsen Chikowore London

A LASTING LINK I HAVE just been reading John Larsson’s article on George Scott Railton (Salvationist 2 May), and I would like to share an anecdote from Bernard Watson’s biography of Railton, Soldier Saint. It regards the growing distance between him and William and Bramwell Booth. Their link became strained but was never broken. To illustrate that, when William was dying he is quoted as saying to Bramwell: ‘I’m leaving you a bonny handful. But Railton will be with you.’ And he was, even though it was only for a year, before Railton died in Germany.

Gilbert Ellis Lieut-Colonel Oslo

STAYING CONNECTED IN these days of Zoom and other forms of virtual meetings and activities, I am once again struck by the foresight and vision of our early leaders.

I believe it was George Scott Railton who wrote in the War Cry in September 1881: ‘Let us hope that the telephone will soon be so far perfected as to come to our help, enabling us to link together into one meeting hundreds of thousands of persons congregated in various meetings.’

Charles Durman Major Eastbourne

FURLOUGH THIS is a new word to me. I was due to return to work after compassionate leave and am now asked to stay at home and take furlough. My ‘normal’ work will resume at some point after this pandemic but, in the meantime, I will be paid 80 per cent of my usual salary.

It can be a fearful prospect, especially with rent or mortgages to pay, families to feed and children home indefinitely. If this is your situation, my prayer is that you will see the goodness of God during this season, providing your needs.

He is the God who called Moses to lead the people of Israel out of captivity in Egypt. They wandered in the wilderness for 40 years but God ensured their clothes and sandals never wore out. He provided food (manna from Heaven, and quail) and water. Wow! My God can do that in a desert – and I know he is able to do immeasurably more than I can ask or imagine.

I awoke tonight to see a bright, beautiful supermoon shining in the night sky, dispelling the darkness. May you see God shine through in these dark times and be encouraged.

Nicola Walmsley Barrow-in-Furness Salvationist 13 June 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Graham and Pat Pitt, Harwich (25 June) Golden O Majors Peter and Marion Shipp (6 June) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Vera White (85 on 22 June) O Major Barbara Hant (90 on 26 June) O Major David Gauton (80 on 26 June) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Major David Johnston from University Hospital Wishaw on 26 May O Joy Myners, Chatham O HLS Gloria Davies, Cwm O Miriam Godsmark, Wath-upon-Dearne O Bandsman Bramwell Woodhouse, Fakenham O Joyce Winnard, Bolton Citadel O BM Henry Gunn, Redruth O Joan Hudson, Burton-on-Trent BEREAVED O Lynn Johnston, Motherwell, of her husband Major David Johnston O Alan Myners, Chatham, of his wife Joy, Carole Horwood, Chatham, Neil Myners and Russ Myners of their mother O CS Jeff Davies, Cwm, of his wife HLS Gloria Davies, Richard Davies and Ruth Phillips of their mother, Songster Evelyn Cheeks, Chelmsford, of her sister O Songster Connie Clark, Guisborough, of her son John, Bandsman Geoff Clark, Guisborough, of his brother O Ruth Woodhouse, Fakenham, of her PRAYER MATTERS Due to staff being furloughed and homeworking restrictions, hard copies of the Prayer Matters booklet (July–December) will not be printed for the 7,000 people who usually receive it. Instead, Salvationist will print the prayer themes each week from the 27 June issue onwards. A PDF is also available for free at salvationarmy.org.uk/ resources/worship-resources

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Salvationist 13 June 2020

husband Bandsman Bramwell Woodhouse, Major Michelle Woodhouse, Wellingborough, Melanie Stollery and Matthew Woodhouse of their father O Irene Payne, Bolton Citadel, Audrey Barnett and Howard Winnard of their mother Joyce OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory LONG SERVICE 25 years – O Major Angela Bailey, Bedford Congress Hall O Major Graham Bailey, Bedford Congress Hall O Major Jennifer Barwise, Lowestoft South O Major Sandra Collins, Dudley O Major Linda Cunliffe, Bangor O Major James Cussen, Chaplain, Willow House Lifehouse, Reading O Major Kenneth Gardner, Grimsby O Major Richard Gaudion, Personnel Service, THQ O Major Alison Hudson, Bromley Temple O Major Iain Hudson, Bromley Temple O Major Gillian Jackson, Cumbernauld O Major Sarah King, WBC O Major Elizabeth Lloyd, Brighton Congress Hall O Major Michael Lloyd, Brighton Congress Hall O Major Sheila Loman, Cardiff Grangetown O Major Christine McCutcheon, Ripon O Major Alex McNee, Paisley Citadel O Major Ian Mountford, Central East DHQ O Major Tracey Mountford, Central East DHQ O Major Sharon Robinson, Midsomer Norton O Major Janet Robson, WBC O Major Andrew Spivey, Coventry City O Major Valerie Spivey, Coventry City O Major Richard Welch, Reading Central O Major Nina Wright, Enniskillen O Major Simon Wright, Enniskillen 30 years – O Major Joy Beckett, Castleford O Major Linda Billard, Sunderland Millfield O Major Mark Billard, Sunderland Millfield O Major Janet Bishop, Sheringham

Major David Brown, Poplar Major Meshiel Brown, Poplar O Major Christopher Davidson, Rhyl O Major Jonathan Greetham, Swanage O Major Michael Harris, Shipley O Major Judith Hilditch, Business Administration Service, THQ O Major Carole Loveridge, Oakengates O Major Adrian Maddern, Regional Chaplaincy Officer (Ireland) O Major Kay Mandell, Central North DHQ O Major Alison Raybould, Chaplain, Davidson House Care Home, Edinburgh O Major Lindsey Toy, Weston-superMare O Major Andrew Vertigan, Mission Service, THQ O Major Hilarie Watchorn, Mission Service, THQ O Major Julian Watchorn, Portsmouth Citadel O Major Martin Wheeler, Anglia DHQ O Major Michelle Wheeler, Anglia DHQ O O

35 years – O Major Christopher Baker, WBC O Major Sharon Baker, Personnel Service, THQ O Major David Coates, Mission Service, THQ O Major Gillian Coates, Regional Chaplaincy Officer (North East Region) O Major Kim Gotobed, Newcastle City Temple O Lieut-Colonel Kenneth Hawkins, Zambia Territory O Major Mark Herbert, South East DHQ O Major Katerina Lennox, Great Yarmouth O Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts, Territorial Commander’s Office, THQ O Major Paul Robinson, Norwich Mile Cross O Major Susan Robinson, Norwich Mile Cross O Lieut-Colonel Judith Schultz, Ghana Territory O Lieut-Colonel Nigel Schultz, Ghana Territory O Major Diane Steadman, Bristol Kingswood O Major Kathryn Stirling, WBC O Major Thomas Stirling, WBC O Major Kathryn Taylor, Central North DHQ 40 years – O Major John Ager, Wallsend O Major Marta Ager, Loughborough

Major Pat Brown, Central South DHQ Major Ray Brown, Central South DHQ O Major Elizabeth Church, Chaplain, No 10 Drop-In Centre, London O Major Gillian Dicker, Chaplain, York House Lifehouse and Granby Centre Lifehouse, Dublin O Major Stuart Dicker, Chaplain, York House Lifehouse and Granby Centre Lifehouse, Dublin O Major Julie Kidd, Personnel Service, THQ O Major Hilary Naylor, Hull Icehouse O Lieut-Colonel Alan Read, Business Administration Service, THQ O Lieut-Colonel Karen Shakespeare, WBC O O

RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 June O Major Jillian Bartlett (née Gelder) out of Bath Citadel in 1984 and last appointment Maesteg O Major Carol Chadwick (née Dalzell) out of Bexleyheath in 1982 and last appointment Personnel Service, THQ ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES IRVINE McKEE, STOCKPORT CITADEL BORN in 1942, Irvine came to the corps as a child and quickly became involved in Army life, learning to play trombone in the YP band. He was a bandsman for more than 60 years and was a founding member of the divisional band. A versatile player, he was often in demand from other bands.

For a number of years Irvine served as YP band leader and was still assisting in learners’ practices up until the last practice that was held just before his promotion to Glory.

He was an avid annual appeal collector, always encouraging his team to even greater efforts. If there was a job to be done, Irvine could always be relied upon to be there. The sudden loss of Irvine is sorely felt by his family and the corps. Servant of Christ, well done! – AT

DAVID MARTIN, SOUTHEND CITADEL DAVID was born in Evesham in 1936. He worshipped with his family at the corps, learning to play the cornet and becoming a bandsman. After his mother died, his father remarried and the family moved to Ealing and then to Southend-on-Sea after David had completed his national service.

David was an encourager and taught a number of people, both young and old, how to play a brass instrument.

He served as YP band leader, deputy bandmaster and songster leader. During retirement he enjoyed a new avenue of service selling the War Cry in Southend high street.

Many of his customers and people he had taught over the years attended his funeral and thanksgiving service, where mention was made of his love of gardening and telling jokes.

David was promoted to Glory on Christmas Day after a battle with cancer and is missed by his wife, four children and grandchildren. – HE

DOROTHY STADDON, SHEFFIELD LANGSETT ROAD DOROTHY Staddon (née Nuttall) was born into a Salvation Army family and had three brothers and four sisters. She started going to Sheffield Park in 1943 when she was four years old, and became a junior soldier and then a senior soldier. She always loved singing and became a singing company member then, later, a songster. Her mission was selling the Army papers on the streets and pub-booming in the Wicker, an area of Sheffield.

In 1979 Dorothy married John, who was the welcome sergeant at Worcester, and continued her service there, also working in the coffee and charity shops.

In 1991 she was widowed and, in 2005, returned to Sheffield where she joined Sheffield Langsett Road. She served there until illness led to a move to a care home.

Dorothy was a lovely, caring and unassuming lady who loved Jesus to the end. – AT

ADAM HALL, HORSHAM ADAM, a lifelong Salvationist, ended his fight against cancer and ‘laid down his sword and marched forth to take up his crown’. He remained strong throughout his illness, and his amazing faith helped all those around him.

He was much loved, as a husband to Pat and as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother. He was a great friend and mentor to many.

From a disadvantaged background in the North East, Adam heartily joined his family in taking his place at South Shields and, later, at Horsham. He was a man of God’s word and knew his Bible so well that he was affectionately known as ‘the living Bible’. He was also a great encourager with a heart for souls.

Perhaps Adam’s greatest legacy is the work he carried out preaching the gospel in Kenya, resulting in many souls saved and orphanages and schools established. He helped hundreds of children gain a better life.

– AS

JAMES McIVER, EDINBURGH GORGIE JAMES, known as Jim, was born in 1936 and was a third-generation Salvationist at Whifflet. He married Margaret in 1959 and they had two children and five grandchildren.

Jim’s work took him to Glenrothes, Dumfries and Edinburgh. During this time he soldiered at Kirkcaldy Sinclairtown, Dumfries and Edinburgh Gorgie, where he was a bandsman, songster pianist and corps sergeant-major.

After retiring from his career as a chartered engineer, Jim was The Salvation Army’s prison liaison officer in Scotland. His impact on the prisoners and their families may never be fully understood. He was appointed MBE for all his voluntary work, which was well deserved.

Jim was promoted to Glory at the age of 84. He is missed by his family and friends. – LP Salvationist 13 June 2020

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As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God

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 MARTIN HILL Divisional Commander, Central East How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I was taken as a baby to Worcester Corps where my parents were the corps officers.

(Psalm 42:1)

place. Alternatively, I’ll go somewhere where the scenery is inspiring or relaxing.

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

It’s never too late.

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

I would be a pole vaulter because on the way up you go feet first and it’s only on the way down that you see things the right way up.

What made you want to become an officer?

It seemed to me that if I really believed in God and the Bible there could be no half measures. That pointed to a commitment as an officer where I could actively promote what I believe.

What is the most interesting thing about your role?

Meeting people, listening to them, learning to understand them and helping them to be fulfilled in what they do. That’s the ideal. … and the most frustrating?

Being an administrative conduit between departments, corps and officers.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would like the Army to be more upbeat, innovative, enthusiastic and positive-thinking. This is cultural, and I recognise I represent the old culture as much as the new and would need to work on myself first.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

I love places of historic interest, where I can imagine how life was lived centuries ago, who inhabited the buildings and what battles took

’

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

Alfred the Great, because of his leadership, spirit, resilience and political acumen. Alternatives would be William Wilberforce, the slave trade abolitionist, Cicero, Rome’s greatest orator, or Pope John Paul II, a spiritual leader for his times.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God’ (Psalm 42:1), which expresses the pure desire and seeking for God that we have in our best moments.

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

Paul. I would ask him about his upbringing and early influences. I would like to know his views on the main philosophies of the day – Stoicism, Epicureanism and Platonism.

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

Energy, so I could keep going.

What is your favourite meal?

Soup, followed by roast turkey, then fruit crumble with custard. They are all tasty and comforting.

What do you do in your spare time?

Read, watch sport and go to the gym.

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

Flared trousers and platform shoes – then I could smile at other people’s dress sense.

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

A 45rpm record called Tubby The Tuba.

I must have been about five. Ironically, my instrument now is Eb bass.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘O Thou Who Camest From Above’ (SASB 288) or ‘O Worship The Lord In The Beauty Of Holiness’ (SASB 343).

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

Global inequality.

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

An incompetent policeman – then I could escape.

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

Be wary of giving advice. Unless it is part of your job, wait to be asked.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My life, and any positive contribution I can make to the lives of others.