More to discover
HERE’S a fun fact about me: I’m created in God’s image. Which is pretty remarkable. Here’s another fact: you’re created in God’s image too. We are both unique, yet we can both see something of God reflected in each other.
Fact number three! God is bigger than both of us. That means that you or I – as amazing as we are – cannot alone reflect the whole multi-faceted richness of God. Together, however, in our differences and in our unity, we can reflect immeasurably more of him. The same thing is true of everyone else in your church community.
This weekend, the Intercultural Mission Conference gathers Salvationists from across the territory to learn more about sharing together, learning from each other and celebrating who we are in Christ. This issue brings you something of that weekend to take into your own life. Because being intercultural isn’t just about becoming more complete as a Church or addressing injustice – both of which are right and important – but about us getting to know God better in relationship with each other. Because –and this is a fact too – if you think you know our eternal God well already, there’s still more of him to discover. And that’s pretty remarkable, isn’t it?
Visit salvationist.org.uk/ recommended-content
EDITOR Ivan Radford
ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods
SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips
PROOFREADER Chris Horne
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SCRIPTURE
INTERNATIONAL LEADERS
General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
TERRITORIAL LEADERS
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Andrew Stone
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS
1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101
FOUNDERS Catherine and William Booth
An open goal
Captain Amy-Jo Battersby encourages us to share our faith through sport this summer
SPORT is big just now – especially if, like me, you live in Glasgow as an Arsenal fan! We are preparing to watch the Scotland men’s football team play in the World Cup for the first time since 1998. I am celebrating Arsenal men’s team winning the Premier League for the first time in 22 years. And my neighbours – Celtic – are celebrating the men’s and women’s victory in the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup! I love sport. It presents us with a
Reflect and respond
Read Ephesians 6:19 and 20. Pray for us to be bold as we share the gospel, trusting that God carries the message come what may.
Pray that the sporting community gathering this summer at the World Cup (11 June–19 July) and Commonwealth Games (23 July–2 August) come to know victory through Christ because of Christians witnessing.
Pray that those in influential positions continue to speak about and live out their faith, pointing others towards Jesus. May God protect them as they do!
fantastic opportunity to share life with people from all kinds of backgrounds. It also gives us an opportunity to share who we are, our whole selves, including what we believe. It takes a lot of courage, but the community around sport is so significant that it would be sad if we met people week in week out, celebrated great wins and tough losses together, and yet never learnt about each other’s lives.
I have been challenged to think about how I share my faith in the sporting contexts I find myself in – the friends I hike with, cycle with, box with and just hang out and watch football with. I have been especially encouraged by members of Arsenal, who have gone all out to share who they are and what they believe.
Known as the ‘Bible brothers’, these players – including Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Madueke and Eberechi Eze – have put themselves in the spotlight, opened themselves up to criticism and have done so with pride in who they follow and what they believe. They have stayed humble as they give thanks for who they are to Jesus, and they have challenged culture as they share their beliefs and religious practices.
Saka has shared about his Bible being a gift from his dad and how much studying God’s word meant to him, how much peace it gives him when he steps out and what his church means to him.
Timber has been open about how the players share Scripture and pray together before each game. And Madueke has commented on how this shared faith has made them stronger as a team. Imagine all the people looking up to these guys, buying their shirts, copying their behaviour… they are followers being led to Jesus. And you don’t need to be an international footballer to have that level of influence!
Ephesians 6:19 says: ‘Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I may fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.’
With so many opportunities for us to engage in sport this summer, can we be as courageous and open about our faith as Arsenal’s Bible brothers? We might find that the message we share leads to us standing in a much larger crowd when we lift the trophy at the final victory parade!
• Hosting watch parties for sporting events this summer? Download resources to help you reach out to your community at salvationist.org.uk/ faith-in-sport-resources
CAPTAIN AMY-JO BATTERSBY Corps Leader Parkhead
by Garry D Reed
Rearrange the first letter of each answer to find a significant spiritual word.
‘I know I have Jesus’
Kemi Ehigbochie (Hackney Mare Street) shares how she has been blessed by God
1 Name a New Testament book that could be the parts of a theatrical production.
2 Name the Old Testament character who brought the house down, literally.
3 Name the final letter of the Greek alphabet.
4 Name the key event of Easter Sunday.
5 Name the fruit traditionally cited as causing problems for Adam and Eve.
6
7 Name the Old
8 Name the most repeated command in
9 Name a cult image often made of stone or wood, such as the golden calf, Baal or the statue of Nebuchadnezzar.
10 Name the 10th king of Judah as referred to in 2 Chronicles.
11 Name the promised son of Abraham and Sarah.
12 Name the supreme being.
13 Name the location of the early Greek church to which Paul wrote at least two letters.
14 Before he was married, Boaz could be said to be ____less.
15 Being a fisherman, some might regard Peter as wealthy due to his ___ income.
Y background is Muslim. My family included Shiite imams who led the mosque. It was a little bit tricky for me to practise Islam. When I came here, I started looking for
I looked for a Pentecostal church. Later, I was going to study early years education, and I was looking for a placement for my childcare course. That’s when I came to know The Salvation Army. I was going to a Pentecostal church, but I was able to do my placement at Hoxton Salvation Army. My colleagues there were too good to me, and they would always invite me to church. I didn’t go to the Salvation Army service at that time because I had my church, but I promised them that – when I was ready to move on – I would go to The Salvation Army.
Then the time came for me to move on. I started looking for a church and saw The Salvation Army on Mare Street.
I knew nobody in that church; I walked in all by myself. I was brave! The first day I went to the service, asking myself: am I in the right place? The church is not that big – they’re not 500 people, like where I’m coming from. I came back next Sunday and was asking myself and asking God: am I in the right place? They shower love, and they’re so kind. All of them are very friendly. Not just friendly, they’re very friendly! And they prayed with me, saying: don’t worry, you are in the right place. And I feel welcomed. I feel like I’m at home and I belong. Now I am a soldier, by the grace of God, and everybody shows love. Even when my mummy passed, everybody continued to phone and show me love, show me empathy.
I really want to know that I’m in the right place, for real; I don’t want to go to church for going’s sake and I like to know the doctrine I am following. I know I have Jesus and, now I have Jesus, I have everything!
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 020 7367 4890.
ANNIVERSARY BANNER
by Evangeline Kingsley-Grace and Flora Muir (Parkhead)
How was it made?
We wanted to create something to celebrate the 140th corps anniversary, so Corps Secretary Flora Muir and I bumped our heads together. Flora had the idea for a Celtic cross and drew out a design, and I evolved that design into a full-on huge hanging. I was really big into the stained-glass effect because of how diverse our corps is; I think we have 17 different nationalities!
The fabrics were contributed by members of the corps, as part of their cultural identity. We’ve got some batik from one of our Nigerian members. I put in fabric with a seahorse print, because that’s the symbol of Belfast. And there are lots of tartans. We even have the tie of somebody who was promoted to Glory a couple of years ago.
What does Parkhead’s anniversary banner depict?
It’s a patchwork Celtic cross wall hanging made of fabrics of different weights and styles and clashing colours to suggest stained glass. The background uses quilting to give a sunburst effect. The three Celtic rings around the centre of the cross are in Salvation Army colours.
What inspired it?
For me, it’s not just the nationalities that inspired the stained-glass effect. So many of us in the corps come from different backgrounds. People have experienced trauma and brokenness, and Parkhead Corps is a place where we can come to heal and really be loved. Stained glass is effectively broken to make something really beautiful. When you look at the different pieces, each is surrounded by others that complement it. That’s what Parkhead Corps is about!
Have you made a piece of art inspired by your faith?
We’d love to share it in our Artists’ Corner! No matter how big or how small, get in touch with our team at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
Alive in Christ!
Major Jane Mylechreest encourages us to choose freedom
ROMANS 6:1–14
IRECENTLY visited the town where I grew up in America. I enjoyed driving around to see the house where we lived, the schools I attended, the library, the swimming pool and the ice cream shop. It’s strange, both good and bad, to be physically in a place that is so strong in your memories.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Have you ever been back to visit a place from your childhood? How did it compare to what you remembered?
Although the town was familiar, it’s not the place where I live any more. It’s not the place I belong any more. Everyone experiences this. There are places we used to be part of, sometimes for years. Yet time passes – we grow up, leave school, leave home, move house, get different jobs. Eventually, we might get to retire!
You might like to visit your old school, but would you put on the uniform, walk in, sit down and take a maths exam? If you quit your job in a fast-food chain, would you pop in one day, grab a mop and start cleaning the toilets? If you went past your old house, would you cut the grass in the front garden? No! You don’t have to do those things any more.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Think of something you are glad to never have to do again.
In Romans 6:2 we read: ‘We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?’ Jesus has freed us from our previous life where we were controlled by sin – not just from an old school or an old job, but a life that was harmful to us and to others.
Sin might make us do things we don’t want to do. It can take away our dignity, build anger and resentment, or be present as lust or greed. Sin doesn’t reward us or benefit us. It just makes us feel ashamed and can ruin our relationships. Sin is insatiable. And it won’t let go. The power of sin over us is stronger than a boss or a coach – the Bible tells us it’s more like a slave master. We can’t outgrow it, quit it or run away from it. The only way out is death to it. A dead person can’t be controlled, can’t be cajoled, can’t be blackmailed or berated or coerced or convinced. When a person is dead to sin, they no longer belong to sin.
Paul writes good news: ‘We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin –because anyone who has died has been set free from sin’ (vv6 and 7).
Jesus died on the cross, but he rose to life and can never die again. By asking his forgiveness for our sins, we can join with his death – not a physical death on a cross, rather a death to sin. By turning a completely new direction, we can move away from sin and towards God instead. How? We ask for forgiveness for the things we have done wrong (see 1 John 1:9), we confess – recognise, admit, proclaim, declare out loud – that ‘Jesus is Lord!’ (see Romans 10:9), and we choose to live for him
(see 2 Corinthians 5:15).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Have you asked God for forgiveness for the things you do wrong?
Have you said out loud that Jesus is Lord?
Have you made a clear, definite choice to live for God and not for yourself?
If so, you are no longer a slave to sin, but you belong to God. Just like Jesus rose again, you can rise into a new, different kind of life where you want to do God’s will.
The temptation to sin is still present in our lives, but the Holy Spirit can help us resist it. It’s like seeing your head teacher on the street and knowing he can’t make you wear a blazer and tie any more. Sin will try to boss you around, but you don’t have to obey it any more.
God’s forgiveness is free to anyone who asks, but it was costly. Jesus’ death was painful and humiliating and he went through it so we can be free. Now that he has shown us such abundant, amazing kindness, are we going to look back over our shoulders at the sin we left behind? Paul asks: ‘Shall we go on sinning, so that grace may increase?’ (v1) and emphatically states: ‘By no means!’ (v2) You don’t have to obey sin. So, don’t go where it will start trying to control you again! Paul urges his readers: ‘Do not offer any part of yourself to sin’ (v13). Don’t go back to visit the old life you had, where sin had power over you.
Stay away from the places that led you to temptation – the physical places, the online places, the places in your mind.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What strategies do you have to help you stay away from the things that tempt you?
How does the Holy Spirit steer you in the right direction?
‘Offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life’ (v13). Like Jonah released from the big fish, or Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego walking out of the fiery furnace, or Lazarus emerging from his tomb, we walk away free and alive. Next, we offer ourselves as living sacrifices to God (see Romans 12:1). We are not just dead to sin; we are alive to love him, to worship him and to join with him in bringing his Kingdom to Earth.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What does being a living sacrifice look like?
How can you live for Christ and his Kingdom?
MAJOR JANE MYLECHREEST Divisional Support Officer North West and Isle of Man Division
To read the full, unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 13 JUNE: CARE FOR CREATION – CLIMATE INNOVATION – GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
Centuries-long reliance on burning fossil fuels to provide heating has done serious damage to the natural environment. New methods of accessing heat are needed. Pray for those designing effective methods for drawing heat from the Earth’s core, for boldness and ingenuity to devise compact and efficient systems. Pray those who hold wealth will turn away from funding fossil fuel extraction and invest in these less destructive methods.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)
SUNDAY 14 JUNE: SABBATH PRAYER – JESUS THE SON
Holy Trinity – trifold community of love – you poured the very essence of yourself into one human body, that we might know you. Jesus, you came to show us what the bond of love looks and feels like. You ministered in the strength of the Father, and in the power of the Spirit. As we seek to build community in the world, teach us to welcome that same strength, love and power. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)
MONDAY 15 JUNE: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – IRELAND DIVISION – NEW MISSION OPPORTUNITIES
We’re actively exploring missional opportunities across our corps and homelessness services, with a Holy Spirit-led drop-in at Londonderry Corps and a Dublin-wide mission focus group. Pray for discernment, the opening of doors, and the courage to obediently follow, as the wind blows where it will. by Major Jonathan Rouffet (Divisional Leader)
TUESDAY 16 JUNE: SERVING AND CARING – SOUTH WEST DIVISION – LEADERS
Many of our corps do not have local leaders. Pray with us for more leaders: people who will help officers in the ministry and mission of the Church, and people who will pray, encourage and offer practical support to officers. by Major Paul Billard (Divisional Leader)
WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – REFUGEE RESPONSE – SHALOM
We ask for shalom in our communities: a spirit of reconciliation and wholeness transcending difference. We pray for communities where everyone is recognised and loved for their unique contribution, where people’s concerns are lovingly addressed, and each person recognises their responsibility to the other. by Ben Still (Refugee Response Manager)
THURSDAY 18 JUNE: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – INDONESIA TERRITORY
We give thanks for the work in Indonesia, particularly work with children and older people. Thank you for their faithful honouring of your mandate to care for the most vulnerable. We pray that places where this care happens will be places of encounter with the living God. We pray for the territorial leadership team: Colonels Hosea and Liliana Makagiantang and Lieut-Colonels Alberth and Elsi Sarimin. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)
FRIDAY 19 JUNE: GROWING IN FAITH – SPORT FAITH LIFE (20–21 JUNE)
The Sport Faith Life weekend includes quality teaching, practical sessions, fun, reflection, prayer, challenge and being with people who want to go deeper and further in their faith through sport. Pray for us as we consider why our bodies are worship, focusing on what Scripture, history and tradition teach us. by Rob Moye (Sports Mission Lead)
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.
Seeking God’s Kingdom together
Intercultural Mission Conference guest speakers Majors Heidie and Richard Bradbury (THQ) talk about their experiences
What’s your intercultural journey been like so far?
Heidie We were appointed to Chikankata Mission Hospital in Zambia. I was a nurse and Richard was in charge of the hospital. The Salvation Army is huge in Zambia, but it was different from what we came from in the UK and Denmark, where we had different expressions of worship. After coming back to the UK, we were appointed to Nairobi in Kenya with our two kids. That was a big city, which was different from being in a rural setting. The Salvation Army there was also different. And then came three years in Bangladesh – a culture where, as Christians, we were in a minority. It’s a huge sacrifice for people to be Christians or officers in Bangladesh –they often have to leave their families and communities. It’s a huge privilege for us that we’ve seen all these different expressions and experiences.
Richard Traversing different cultures, you see different ways of thinking. It softens your certainty, because you can have this very fixed view of what church or life look like, of what the Bible means, and your culture shapes your view. That was a real lesson for us, particularly in Bangladesh and our understanding of worship and what sacrifice means. Being able to
take time to immerse yourself in other people’s perspectives and see the bigger picture more clearly is important. We’ve made mistakes along the way, but some of the sweetest parts of our lives are where we’ve been stretched, shaped and changed when we’ve been living with others in this intercultural journey. That’s the beauty of intercultural ministry – it’s not static. We learn together as we press deeper into relationship and grow closer to God. We seek the Kingdom of God together, and that’s what the family of God is all about.
Heidie We have gained more than we have ever been able to give.
Do you have any memorable moments?
Heidie One is the birth of our son at Chikankata Hospital. On the day, things were not well. His heart rate was down. When he was born, he wasn’t breathing. What we saw was a community coming together. Everyone came! There were three doctors, two midwives and two anaesthetists, which was amazing because one was able to be with him and one with me. He was brought up by the community there. It was incredible to feel that kind of belonging.
Richard I had a serious car accident and
was rushed to the hospital in Nairobi. And there was an army of Salvationists waiting for me to arrive at the hospital, with everybody praying. One person in the ICU sang ‘I know he cares for you’ over me. I can’t remember much, but I remember that clearly. That sense of community, faith and belonging is something I’m often reminded about.
What are you talking about at the conference?
Richard One of the things will be time. In UK culture, time is something to be managed, whereas I learnt in Kenya and Zambia that, actually, people are to be honoured and time is secondary. That difference was powerful to me – it’s about giving time to the person in front of you. There’s a beautiful quote from Maya Angelou: ‘We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike.’ But we do have differences and we need to live with and understand them. Through all that is a thread of common humanity and oneness in Christ. We’re not created to know all the answers – in the Bible, the disciples didn’t know everything. They kept listening and asking questions. For me, we need to have that intercultural space to understand that God is revealing to us some special things about his creation and his people. Seeing intercultural mission as part of the Great Commission, too, I think is very rich.
We are so privileged to be in this position as a Movement of diverse people. It’s something we should cherish. In a rapidly moving world, intercultural understanding is important.
What are you most looking forward to about the weekend?
Heidie Meeting new people and learning from them!
Richard Being part of worship where everybody comes from different places and ways of looking at things, but we sit down together in the Kingdom of God. Our experiences of God are diverse, but it’s the same God.
• Find out more about the Intercultural Mission Conference at salvationist.org. uk/intercultural-weekend
Life together
Captain Wan Gi Lee reflects on going deeper in relationship with each other
‘INTERCULTURAL mission’ is a beautiful and necessary phrase. It reminds us that the gospel is not owned by one culture, one language, one style of worship or one way of seeing the world. It calls us to meet Christ in one another beyond our cultural differences. Yet the phrase can also become a label. It can be something we put on.We might learn the right vocabulary, celebrate diversity on special occasions, display different colours, foods, songs and traditions, and feel that we have‘done’ intercultural mission.
These things are not wrong.They can be joyful and meaningful. But if we do not go deeper, intercultural mission can become an act of pleasing others. It might attract attention, but it might not yet reveal transformation.We might still be avoiding the harder question: are we learning to live together?
Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book Life Together was shaped by his experience running an underground seminary for the Confessing Church at Finkenwalde in Nazi Germany during the 1930s.There, Christian community was not treated simply as an idea, but practised through shared rhythms of prayer, Scripture, service, discipline and mutual responsibility. For Bonhoeffer, Christian community is not a dream we impose on others: it is a gift we receive in Christ. This matters deeply for intercultural mission. Sometimes we come to community with our own imagined picture of what it should be.We want it to be warm, colourful and exciting.We are drawn to difference,yet we might hesitate when difference begins to unsettle us.We gladly celebrate diversity, but the deeper work of listening, repentance, patience and shared life asks more of us. It invites us to meet one another as real people, rather than as cultural
symbols. It asks us to listen before explaining, to share before organising, to confess before teaching, and to remain with one another when misunderstanding arises.
In today’s culture, labels can often move faster than relationships. Bonhoeffer’s phrase ‘life together’ gently encourages us to slow down. It brings us back to the people before us, people through whom God can bless us and change us. ‘Life together’ reminds us that Christian community must go deeper than performance, visibility or occasional celebration. At its heart, it is about presence, belonging and shared discipleship. It is entering a deeper dialogue with God and with oneself. And this is where the real change begins.
Galatians 3:26–28 give us a final point of reflection. Paul writes that we are all children of God through faith, clothed with Christ, and that ‘there is neither Jew
nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus’ (v28). This does not mean our differences disappear. It means that our deepest identity is no longer secured by cultural superiority, social status or inherited division. We are clothed with Christ.
Putting on this new clothing is joyful, but it is also challenging. It asks us to take off the old clothes of fear, control or labels. It asks us not to use intercultural mission as a colourful garment that makes us look generous. Instead, it is a deeper call into shared life together. Life together is a precious gift from God. It is an open invitation to you too.
CAPTAIN WAN GI LEE Corps Leader St Albans
Becoming intercultural
Some of the territory’s intercultural mission officers reflect on their ministry and
Captain Adrian Allen Stotfold
Over the past 12 months, changing roles to become the territorial intercultural mission officer coordinator has been a whirlwind and baptism of fire. At times it has been overwhelming, often wondering why I was asked to step into this role. However, it has allowed me to interact in ways I could not have done before.
It has been a privilege to be present at occasions where diversity is celebrated, including an international celebration in Glasgow, an ecumenical intercultural conference in Manchester and watching the Africa Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe timbrel brigade during their Easter campaign in Warwick! I often find myself in places where I see glimpses of the Kingdom, where people worship God in many languages, styles and positions. For me intercultural worship is a place where we can be truly free to be ourselves, made uniquely in the image and likeness of God.
In this coordinator role, I find myself in many different meetings hearing many different topics that affect the wider Army. I have been amazed at the number of people wanting to see how their spheres of influence can become increasingly intercultural. When I look to Galatians 3, I am reminded that we are all children of God. I strive to ensure that everyone has a seat at the table, regardless of background, nationality, gender or social status, realising there is a strength and richness in diversity, especially when we are, clothed through faith, all united in Christ.
I am fortunate to have such wonderful and gifted members of the intercultural team to work with. They are a gift for the territory to use, so if you need any support regarding intercultural mission, please contact us, and we will ensure the right member of the team can support you where possible!
Being a lifelong Salvationist, but also of mixed heritage, brought up in the white culture of The Salvation Army of the late 60s to early 80s, my initial passion was to reach out to other Salvationists who are of mixed heritage – because we belong to both or more of our birth cultures in part, but none of them fully, and that can be a challenging path to walk, as we try to discover the blessings and navigate the pitfalls. However, nothing came of this.
I also thought that I might be useful for divisions as a resource, a safe space or even as one to come alongside and encourage, but that hasn’t really happened either. In part, I think that has been because Salvation Army expressions have been getting on with trying to be multicultural or making the journey to being intercultural under their own steam. My role has been more letting people know of resources and courses than meeting with people at a local level, although I have had the opportunity to have conversations!
When it comes to what intercultural mission looks like in my area, we are still at the stage of being welcoming. Everyone is welcomed into the fellowship, but naturally people go where there are others who look like them, speak their language and are of the same age group, so we have welcomed people of other nationalities, but they have not stayed. Messy Church is slightly more successful in this regard, because children come with their school friends –although some already attend other churches.
So my role has largely been to model what it means to be intercultural and to affirm those who are on the journey!
Read more responses at tsa.link/imo-interviews out more about mission at salvationist.org.uk/ intercultural-mission the Intercultural at intercultural.mission@ salvationarmy.org.uk
Major Marjory Parrott Ripley
and experiences so far
Captain Wan Gi Lee St Albans
At the heart of our corps mission are three key words: intercultural, intergenerational and inclusive. These reflect a missional model Jesus demonstrated throughout his ministry, which is beautifully echoed in Galatians 3:26–28.
Finding ways to promote and put these values into practice is both a joy and a challenge. It is a joy because we get to witness the beauty of God’s Kingdom through our identity as an all-nations church in Christ. It is also a challenge because discipleship requires us to identify, encourage and equip people to join in the mission. If mission truly is for us all in Christ, then we all have a part to play.
Lieut-Colonels Edgar and Sara Chagas Croydon Citadel
Croydon has more than 390,000 residents and is made up of a diverse mix of ethnic groups. More than 100 languages are spoken and 14.5 per cent of people have a language other than English recorded as their main language.
We daily receive people from all over the world in our premises, and our Sunday congregation is made up of people from more than 20 different countries. As much as we appreciate all this, we suspected it was not unique! So at the recent Mission Conference we invited some of the people who participated in one of the workshops to make a list of countries people in their corps come from. They came up with 50 countries –from Mexico to Iraq, Ukraine to South Africa, Albania to Nepal! We hope that the diversity we see in our communities will continue to be well represented within The Salvation Army in this territory.
An intercultural melting pot where cultures interact, influence and transform each other is hard work. There is no set recipe; it is slow, often uncomfortable, mutually inconvenient and every corps is unique.
There are many lessons to be learnt, but let us share some we have encountered:
further
responses online link/imo-interviews, find about intercultural salvationist.org.uk/ intercultural-mission or contact Intercultural Mission team intercultural.mission@ salvationarmy.org.uk
As I have prayed about this challenge, God has given me a simple idea: driving from the back seat. In many areas of our intercultural mission, we can create space for others to take the lead. For example, our monthly Bible study at St Albans is led by Ronald, a Hong Kong immigrant. He has a deep passion for God’s word and the knowledge and gifts to lead others in it. The Bible study, followed by lunch together, continues to flourish. Another example is our monthly Ukrainian fellowship. Manuela, one of our members from Germany, has been coordinating this ministry by bringing together individuals and groups to support people facing difficult circumstances. Through her leadership, people have found friendship, practical help and a sense of community.
These are just a couple of examples of our intercultural mission in action. My joy – and my challenge – to all of us is this: in prayer, give people the opportunity to drive. As we make space for others to lead, God will continue to show us the way forward.
First, you need to be determined to get the melting pot going with continuous investment and focus. It has to be intentional.
Second, the melting pot is the culture of the Kingdom of God, not necessarily the culture of our society.
Third, it is a lifestyle – not something we do because it is politically correct or do on a Sunday and forget about it the rest of the week. It is relationshiporientated not programme-orientated. It is dependent on a willingness to be open and to make oneself vulnerable and available to learn from the other. In Brazil we have a saying: ‘If you want to get to know someone, you need to sit down with them and eat a kilo of salt!’
The diverse society we live in gives us a unique opportunity to be bold. As representatives of God’s Kingdom here on Earth, as those he has chosen to work with at this time in history, we can step out in faith, knowing he is with us, and embrace the people he is giving us to be part of The Salvation Army for such a time as this.
When worship stays comfortable
John Baraza Namunyu invites us to go deeper in intercultural worship
GROWING up as a child of Salvation Army officers from rural Kenya and now worshipping in the UK for more than two decades – particularly within The Salvation Army – I have witnessed both the beauty and the blind spots of our global Movement. One of the most pressing, yet often sidestepped, conversations today is the difference between multicultural and intercultural worship, and why corps appear to struggle to move beyond the former.
Multicultural worship, as many of us who are migrants have experienced, is often about presence without participation. Different cultures are welcomed, but the structure, tone and leadership of worship remain largely unchanged. It is, as has often been said, inviting people to the party, but still choosing the music, the dress code and the programme. In contrast, intercultural worship calls for something deeper –something far less comfortable. It calls for shared ownership.
It asks: Whose voice shapes the prayer? Whose rhythm defines the praise? Whose story is centred in the testimony?
A traditional, predominantly monocultural corps might find themselves struggling here – not because they lack goodwill, but because intercultural worship disrupts long-standing norms. It challenges inherited power dynamics. It exposes unconscious bias. It calls into question whether what we have always done is truly universal – or simply familiar.
Let us be honest: there is often an unspoken expectation that people from different cultural backgrounds must adapt to an existing Salvation Army ‘way’ of worship. Brass bands, certain hymn styles, structured meetings –
these are cherished, yes, but they are not neutral. They are cultural expressions. When these are upheld as the standard, without room for equal contribution from ‘different’ others, we drift into symbolic effort rather than integrated transformation.
Intercultural worship introduces what some might call ‘mutual inconvenience’. It might mean songs in unfamiliar languages, prayer styles that feel less predictable or leadership that does not mirror the historical norm. For some, this may feel like loss, and the grieving is palpable. But, in truth, it is an invitation – to growth, to humility, and to a fuller and more creative expression of the Kingdom of God.
Another gap lies in local leadership. Many corps might appear diverse and multicultural in attendance, but decision-making spaces might still remain monocultural. Without diverse voices shaping vision and practice, intercultural worship cannot take root. Whichever way we choose to frame this conversation, the bottom line is that representation
is not a gesture; it is essential.
The communities we serve are richly diverse but, if our Sunday worship does not reflect this reality, we risk becoming culturally disconnected from the very people we are called to reach. The challenge before us is not to abandon tradition, but to hold it with open hands. The Salvation Army has always been a Movement of adaptation, from the days of William Booth to our present global mission.
Intercultural worship is not a trend. It is a theological and missional necessity. It reflects the vision of a truly global Church – one body, many parts, equal in value and voice.
What would it cost your corps to not just welcome intercultural diversity, but to be reshaped by it for God’s glory and Kingdom?
Intercultural Mission Conference 2025
JOHN BARAZA NAMUNYU Liverpool Walton
Learning together
Salvationist introduces a new Race Inclusion video course
IN 2021, at the request of the then territorial commander, Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, a Territorial Race Inclusion Working Group was formed to help The Salvation Army take practical steps to address racial injustice and discrimination within our Movement.
Through listening to honest and sometimes painful stories, including those of Salvationists who have felt ignored, excluded or mistreated because of their ethnicity, the working group recognised both the harm experienced by individuals and the ways in which racism can operate unintentionally or unconsciously within church life.
As part of this work, a Race Inclusion video course and supporting resources were commissioned. The course is designed to help corps explore how we can become more intentionally welcoming and inclusive communities. Using short videos, teaching input and real stories from Salvationists, the course creates space for honest reflection, discussion and growth, rooted in our Christian faith and mission.
This journey is hopeful and rooted in our faith, but it may also feel uncomfortable at times. It invites us to reflect honestly on our assumptions, biases and habits, and to consider how we might need to step beyond what feels familiar. Scripture reminds us that God’s Kingdom is a restored family not defined by ethnicity, culture, gender or background, but by love, justice,
reconciliation and grace.
The Race Inclusion course offers a gentle but intentional starting point, one in which we will be able to encourage one another to learn, to listen, and to move forward together as one corps family. A theological reflection on equity and inclusion, welcome and hospitality is also available for individual and group reflection, to use independently or alongside the course. You can read and download it at tsa.link/raceinclusion-group.
‘I long for the day when we can all live together in harmony, when differences are celebrated and, no matter our ethnic background, feel like we fit in,’ says Territorial Leader Commissioner Jenine Main. ‘Sadly, oursalvation Army family doesn’t always look like this. Even when we believe ourselves to be inclusive, there is a tendency to stick to who we’re familiar with, and the people who are like us.
‘One of things the Race Inclusion Working Group has done is commission some resources to get us all further on a journey towards fuller inclusion. They include some teaching and some interviews with people who share their experiences of being part of The Salvation Army. I’d encourage you to keep going on this journey – and to encourage others to join you. I believe that God is restoring his family, and I want to be part of it. Do you?’
How does the course work?
The course uses short videos, teaching input and real stories from Salvationists to help people reflect prayerfully and honestly on race inclusion within our local Salvation Army settings.
Participants will be encouraged to engage at a level that feels safe for them. Listening attentively is just as valuable as speaking, and personal stories shared by others should always be treated with confidentiality and respect.
Facilitators will gently but clearly remind the group of agreed expectations, redirect the conversation towards learning, and focus on ideas rather than individuals.
The course acknowledges that this journey can be challenging, and encourages participants to be honest about their feelings while remaining respectful and open to listening. The goal is not to force agreement but to encourage respectful listening and reflection.
• If your corps is interested in running the course, for access to the video resources and course guide, or if you would like support, guidance or advice on how to get started, email racial.inclusion@salvationarmy.org.uk
Part of something bigger!
Whether you’re attending in person or at home, you’re invited to join in with Together 26
FROM Friday 3 to Sunday 5 July 2026, Salvationists will be travelling from across the UK and Ireland to the ICC in Birmingham for Together 26. It’s a weekend to gather, celebrate and reflect on who God has called us all to be as The Salvation Army – united in hope, faith and purpose. There’s a place for everyone to belong and flourish – to be part of something bigger.
Timings and the full schedule for the weekend are now available at salvationist.org.uk/ together, along with the last few tickets! Come as you are. Be part of the story.
It fosters a profound sense of togetherness in every respect – not only reinforcing unity as one Army, but also deepening our fellowship and connection with the Lord. It provides a precious opportunity to pause from the demands of everyday life and refocus our hearts and minds upon God, strengthening and reaffirming our faith through worship, teaching and fellowship. It is also a privilege to share in the joy and celebration of the commissioning of new lieutenants as they begin their journeys of service to him. Particular highlights for me include the International Staff Songsters workshop and the opportunity to reconnect with friends I do not often see.
Gareth Wigan
Travelled: 90 miles
In 2024 I had my first experience of Together. I initially went because my brother wanted to go. I didn’t feel it was for me, but I was very wrong. The atmosphere was amazing and the happiness all around was contagious. God was at the centre of Together 2024 and was evident in all those I met, whether it was catching up with old friends or making new ones. Together 2025 didn’t disappoint and the venue made it even more special. There is something for all ages at Together, whether you like it loud and energetic or quiet and relaxing. I came away with many memories but, more than that, I came away knowing that I had met with God in a more personal way. I have booked again this year and I’m looking forward to experiencing new things, sharing in a great weekend of celebration and praise, and knowing that God’s love and presence will be shown.
Fliss Devonport Morice Town
Travelled: 205 miles
I just love to see people follow their calling and, obviously, because it was Lieutenant Emma Scott’s commissioning in 2025, I wanted to go and support. I would love to go again!
Margaret Forest of Dean
Travelled: 71 miles
Together at Home
Be part of Together 26 wherever you are!
Livestreams
The main sessions will be live‑streamed at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo
Saturday 4 July
6.30–8pm This is Us! Together in Worship
Sunday 5 July
10.30am–12.30pm This Is Our Journey: Ordination and Commissioning of the Keepers of the Covenant
3–4.30pm This Is Us! Called to Be… Salvationist In print, online, on air
The 4 July issue of Salvationist magazine will be a Together 26 special, including interviews, reflections and testimonies from the cadets being commissioned.
Live updates, features and prayer prompts will be shared across salvationist.org.uk and the Salvationist Facebook page. Follow us @SalvationistUKI and be part of the conversation.
Listen to Salvationist Radio and subscribe to the Sunday Worship podcast at salvationist.org.uk/ sunday-worship as we explore the theme This Is Us together.
Activity packs and resources
The event guide, Commissioning brochure, a Kids Alive! activity pack and more will also be available to download and use at home or in your corps.
For the latest information, visit salvationist.org.uk/together-home
Calling future leaders
WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE
I ATTENDED Exploring Leadership Day, and it filled me with so much hope for The Salvation Army in our territory, writes Sports Mission Specialist Rob Moye (THQ) I love sport, exercise and movement. It has shaped – and is shaping – me to be the person God has called me to be. I specifically remember being called to sport; it was a calling as clear as a musical bell.
That calling has taken time to figure out and discern, but I know it’s what God wants for me in my life at the moment, so I have to be obedient to him.
People from across our territory attended, with a mixture of ages and life experiences. Divisional teams and corps groups were also present, many of them using the event to springboard other missional engagement opportunities, such as volunteering at the London Marathon.
As I entered William Booth College, I immediately felt the Holy Spirit as people laughed, embraced each other, tried to wake up following long journeys, or reacquainted themselves with friends, family and colleagues. All were welcome! It was evident from the very outset that God had plans for the people attending, but that some hadn’t quite fully discovered that for themselves yet.
Our morning kicked off with energised sung worship and praise, fun icebreakers, a chance to hear from workshop leaders regarding the afternoon sessions and moments of reflection. We considered the 9.38 prayer
initiative – inspired by Matthew 9:38 –and stopped to pray for future leaders of The Salvation Army: that God would send people into his mission field. This created a real moment of unity. As people prayed together in small groups, you could sense the Spirit was welcome and at work in the Assembly Hall. It was a real holy ground moment.
The icing on the cake was having Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin as guest speaker. She spoke about her own calling and story in relation to Peter’s calling. She gave us many life lessons when it came to exploring leadership in our lives and inspired us to consider our own ‘come, follow me’ stories. There was a beautiful moment following Rose’s sharing when we were invited to come and kneel, stand or be prayed for at the mercy seat. People were visibly making decisions, receiving affirmation or just able to be still and know that God was for them!
The afternoon gave us opportunity to socialise in the glorious sunshine or in the foyer before several diverse and thought-provoking workshops centred around the theme Called to Be. Streams relating to whole-life discipleship, intercultural mission, discernment, children and youth, sport, officership and so much more were available to attend and learn and receive from.
During the sports stream, we considered why ‘teamwork makes the dream work’ and, as we played on holy ground, we discovered that here we
could worship. As we played the game Crazy Catch – praying and playing to Jesus and listening to his voice – we were reminded that we can do all things through him who gives us strength (see Philippians 4:13). God made sport for his glory so, as a called people, we praised him, competed for him, jumped for him and received from him.
To round off the day, we heard testimonies from individuals of how God was prompting their callings.
Territorial Candidates Director Major Jonny Smith encouraged us to keep making a difference in our everyday lives as we step into our callings.
As I left the day, I was reminded that the body of Christ is a team, made up of many different parts. We are called to serve by love, called to build each other up, called to encourage, and called to support and strengthen each other in Christ by working out our calling in him together.
If you’re exploring leadership or considering God’s calling, I pray you’ll remember that God will help you in your leaps of faith, and that God will fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit in your everyday life.
• Find out more about Exploring Leadership Day or explore who you are called to be at salvationist.org.uk/ calling
INTERNATIONAL
Keeping the Covenant PHILIPPINES
CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill visited to celebrate the new officers from the Keepers of the Covenant session.
The Philippines was once part of the commissioners’ home territory, the USA Western Territory. Commissioner Edward reflected on the enduring bonds between the two territories and the shared history that continues to unite Salvationists across generations.
The weekend began with Officers Councils led by Territorial Commander Colonel Nelia Almenario and Chief Secretary Lieut-Colonel Emerald Urbien. Commissioner Edward encouraged officers with reports of growth across the international Salvation Army and challenged delegates to pray for more workers in the service of God. Testimonies of God’s faithfulness through difficult circumstances created moments of spiritual renewal, with many officers recommitting themselves to God’s service.
At the celebration of the newly ordained and commissioned officers, a strong sense of God’s presence prevailed. Following the Chief of the Staff’s message, lives were dedicated to God, and personal needs were brought in prayer at the mercy seat. Cadet Jennifer Puno shared her personal testimony of faithfully responding to God’s call despite uncertainty and family challenges.
Excitement filled the meeting as second-year cadets and newly commissioned lieutenants received their appointments. As Commissioner Edward issued a challenge to officership, 20 young people responded to God’s call, including two 10-year-old junior soldiers. Smiling warmly, the Chief of the Staff remarked: ‘We are also preparing cadets for 2035 or 2045 sessions!’
Commissioner Shelley Hill later met with members of the Silver Star Fellowship, honouring the parents of the new lieutenants.
Throughout the weekend, Salvationists praised God for lives transformed, callings affirmed and continuing faithfulness to God. – AR
COMMUNITY
NUNHEAD To help manage our recycling, our corps charity shop shared some of the donated items it had received with other organisations, including a Southwark day centre that supports refugees and St Barnabas Church in Dulwich. In a world that is tough for so many, we spread what we have to help the communities within our reach. – KS
FUNDRAISING
GLASGOW The city’s Kilt Walk raised money for charities over three different distances: a Wee Wander of 3 miles, a Big Stroll of 14 miles and a Mighty Stride of 23 miles. Some people from SATCoL’s Barrhead Donation Centre raised money for the corps by taking part. Thankfully the best of Scottish sunny days was had. The corps thanks Tina, Sophie, Jane and David for their efforts and for all the Donation Centre’s staff and volunteers who do such a great job all year round. – GW
COMMUNITY
LONDONDERRY The corps parent-and-toddler group is a lovely community that has grown over the past few years. Our group constantly works at providing a safe place for children to play and develop, but also a place for people in and around the community to build friendships, support each other and share the love of Jesus. We hope and pray that, by providing this, it will not only impact our church’s mission and ministry but also that we will see God’s Kingdom being built right here in our community. – SS
FUNDRAISING
NORWICH CITADEL The band joined forces with the East of England Co-op Band to present Brassed Off: A Together Concert, raising over £2,000 for the YMCA. During the evening, a variety of music was presented separately and together, culminating in the massed bands playing ‘Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral’. – MW
Holistic approach brings hope
IHQ
THE Salvation Army’s recently released 2025 Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Response Impact Report highlights worldwide efforts to combat exploitation and support survivors. Operating in 134 countries uniquely positions the Army to deliver a global network of care and safety for victims, helping them regain control of their lives, restore dignity and, where possible, reunite with loved ones.
The report showcases stories of transformation and resilience, that change is possible and that lives can be rebuilt. The Army emphasises a holistic approach to tackling modern slavery and addressing the social, economic and environmental factors that drive vulnerability.
In 2025, the Army supported more than 25,000 survivors worldwide through its coordinated response network. Its Freedom Action Framework – expressing its holistic approach – comprises eight global response areas: prayer, prevention, protection, partnership, participation, prosecution, proof and policy. – AR
COLCHESTER CITADEL The visit of Bromley Temple Songsters began with an afternoon rehearsal, where the visiting brigade joined the host songsters and members of the congregation to rehearse ‘Guardian of My Soul’ before an evening festival. Highlights of the evening included ‘Written in Red’ and ‘Hymn to the Conqueror’. – MW
NOTTINGHAM A group of brave students from the University of Nottingham raised an incredible £6,513.06 for The Salvation Army through a skydive challenge, supporting communities across the city in what has become an annual event. In September 2025, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls hosted a promotional stall inviting students to enter a competition to become one of the 10 skydivers for 2026. Those selected embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, dedication and a shared passion to make a difference. The money will also help fund essential services at Nottingham Aspley. – AR
OUTREACH
NORWICH CITADEL In response to the decline of traditional youth provision, leaders have been meeting young people where they naturally gather offering presence, conversation and care. Divisional Youth Specialist Ruth Beattie, Hilary Winch and James Gibson have engaged with about 60 young people this year, with a growing number recognising and welcoming them each week. Through consistent, relational work, trust is being built over time. Encounters range from defusing difficult situations to listening to young people share about music, faith and personal challenges. The approach is simple but intentional – being visible, compassionate and available. This ministry reflects a commitment to show that young people matter to God and to the Church. By stepping into their world, the team is offering a message of hope, belonging and a reminder that the Church is present beyond its walls. – MW
CLOWNE A record 122 people attended the biennial Spring Fair. A variety of stalls provided something for everyone, from wax melts, cards and cakes to books and crafts. The everpopular bacon cobs, tea and coffee provided attendees a reason to stay a while and share a few words. More than £660 was raised for corps funds. – GH
LEEDS CENTRAL Knitters offered comfort to more than 1,000 people through lovingly handcrafted prayer shawls. The corps prayer shawl ministry – now in its 15th year – brings people together to knit shawls, scarves and prayer squares. Corps leader Major Nicola Barker said: ‘It’s very much a ministry. The fact that it’s been thought about and prayed over means so much to people when they’re going through something, even those who are not of faith.’ – AR
COMMUNITY
Local officers appointed
BAND SECRETARY MARC
JACKSON, Consett
ASSISTANT CORPS TREASURER
NATHAN SILLETT, Consett
WOMEN’S MINISTRIES
SECRETARY REBECCA WATERS, Consett
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES
COORDINATOR KATE EBINEDIA , Greenock
CHILDREN’S WORKER VIOLET
O’TOOLE, Greenock
DEPUTY SAFEGUARDING LEAD AND CHILDREN’S WORKER
LAUREN WEIR , Greenock
Wedding anniversaries
Blue Sapphire (65 years)
BANDSMAN/SONGSTER
FREDERICK AND SONGSTER
MARIAN COTTERILL , Worcester, on 10 June
HELENA AND JIM OLIVER , Blackburn, on 24 June
Diamond (60 years)
DAVID AND DOROTHY GRINNELL , Woodhouse, on 4 June
Promoted to Glory
STUART HOLMES, Eastbourne Citadel
LIEUT-COLONEL DOREEN
CAFFULL from Linkfield Court care home, Bournemouth, on 26 May
Bereaved
LIEUT-COLONEL RAMSAY
CAFFULL of his wife Lieut-Colonel Doreen Caffull, Lieut-Colonel Mike Caffull, Graham Caffull and Trevor Caffull, Kettering Citadel, of their mother
Retirements from active service
Effective 1 June
MAJOR SARAH EVANS (née Orton) out of Penge in 1986 and last appointment Director of Wellbeing, Personnel Service, THQ
MAJOR GILLY HOITINGA (née Denny) out of Croydon Citadel in 1995 and last appointment Wick
MAJOR TERRI HOLDROYD out of Addlestone in 1987 and last appointment Dumfries
MAJOR IAN McBRIDE out of Lurgan in 1986 and last appointment Belfast Citadel
MAJOR SALLY McBRIDE (née McDowell) out of Ballymena in 1987 and last appointment Belfast Citadel
MAJOR MARGARET STREDWICK out of Romford in 1983 and last appointment IHQ
Long service
40 years
MAJOR GILL BILLARD, South West DHQ
MAJOR PAUL BILLARD, South West DHQ
MAJOR EMANUELE
CARPAGNANO, Ringwood
MAJOR GEOFF CHAPE, Tunbridge Wells
MAJOR LIZ CHAPE, Tunbridge Wells
MAJOR DAWN EVANS, Redditch
MAJOR SARAH EVANS, Personnel Service, THQ
MAJOR WENDY GOODMAN, Haverhill
COMMISSIONER CEDRIC HILLS, IHQ
COMMISSIONER LYN HILLS, IHQ
COMMISSIONER JENINE MAIN, Territorial Leader, THQ
COMMISSIONER PAUL MAIN, Territorial Leader, THQ
MAJOR IAN McBRIDE, Belfast North
MAJOR MARJORY PARROTT, Ripley
MAJOR ANNETTE RIEDER-PELL , Business Administration Service, THQ
LIEUT-COLONEL JONATHAN
ROBERTS, Wales DHQ
MAJOR AMANDA WHITE, London DHQ
MAJOR CATHERINE WYLES, Paisley Citadel 35 years
MAJOR ADRIAN ALLMAN, West Midlands DHQ
MAJOR DAVID BLOWERS, Mission Service, THQ
MAJOR JILL COLCLOUGH, Loughborough
LIEUT-COLONEL JANE COWELL , Chief Secretary’s Office, THQ
MAJOR GRAHAM DANIELS, East of England DHQ
MAJOR JUDITH DANIELS, East of England DHQ
MAJOR CAROL EVANS, Hinckley
MAJOR LINDA GOVIER , East Midlands DHQ
MAJOR MARTIN SAYER , East Midlands DHQ
MAJOR BRUCE SMITH, Inverness
MAJOR ISOBEL SMITH, Inverness
MAJOR ALEC STILL , Yorkshire and Humber DHQ
MAJOR ANDREA STILL , Morley
MAJOR KIM WILSON, Wales DHQ
MAJOR STEPHEN WILSON, Wales DHQ
MAJOR DENISE WISE, Bath Citadel
MAJOR DAVID WOODMAN, Cardiff Canton
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
Thu 25 Jun – Thu 2 Jul Switzerland, Austria and Hungary
Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries
Commissioner Shelley Hill
Fri 12 Jun – Mon 15 Jun Denmark and Greenland
Mon 15 Jun – Thu 18 Jun Finland and Estonia
Fri 26 Jun – Mon 29 Jun Kirkcaldy (140th corps anniversary)
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
Sat 13 Jun – Sun 14 Jun Connah’s Quay (135th corps anniversary)
Sat 27 Jun – Sun 28 Jun Sheringham (138th corps anniversary)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development
Colonel Julie Forrest
Sat 27 Jun – Sun 28 Jun Portsmouth Citadel (corps anniversary)
NOTICES
Together 26: Full timetable now available
The full timetable for the weekend from Friday 3 July to Sunday 5 July is now available at salvationist.org.uk/ together, including information about the Children’s Venue, Family Area and Quiet Space. Check your ticket confirmation emails for registration details for any activities.
Praying for Racial Justice
Racial justice is something that many people don’t feel equipped to lead prayers for. This new resource is designed to help you pray for racial justice, individually, in groups or in gathered worship. Visit tsa.link/praying-for-racial-justice
Father’s Day: Remembering someone special
If you’re remembering your father or a father figure who has given you love, guidance and support this Father’s Day (21 June), you can leave a message on The Salvation Army’s dedication page, a space to share memories and photos of loved ones. The virtual wall is free to use and a donation to the Army is optional. Access the page at thesalvationarmy.dedicationpage.org/fathers-day
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Grace Moir (Regent Hall). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
FRIDAY Iyahen was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader
Captain Amy-Jo Battersby. Friday came to the UK from Nigeria and began attending the corps, where he has relatives. Friday made the decision to become an adherent as he has been welcomed into the corps family and wished to make the corps his church. – AD
NIKE Adelaya was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader
Captain Amy-Jo Battersby. Nike moved to the area with her family and began attending the corps, where they were made welcome. She made the decision to become an adherent and make the corps her church. – AD
JOSHUA Craig was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Major Gary Chatburn. Josh spoke of how the corps and its music sections have encouraged, supported and prayed for him since he arrived with his family and how we have become his Christian family. Josh asked the songsters to sing ‘I Dare to Be Different’ and the band to play his favourite march ‘Alderney’. Josh referenced Galatians 2:20, speaking of a life no longer just his but one that belongs to Jesus, of wanting every part of his life to reflect Christ’s love and grace, and of how soldiership is the next step for him. Also pictured is Assistant Corps Sergeant-Major Alexander Shelley holding the flag. – AS
BURGESS HILL
MAUREEN Hobden was enrolled as a soldier by corps leaders
Majors Bramwell and Rhonda Hayes. Maureen has been attending the corps and made it her spiritual home. She has been playing in the band for some time and felt called to make the commitment to soldiership. Also pictured are her fellow band members. – BH
FELIXSTOWE
EWAN Scott was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Captain Paul Williams. As part of a Salvationist family, Ewan attended Sunday school, but in his early teenage years drifted to the fringe of the corps. As a student attending college, he applied for the hall cleaner job to supplement his income and again became involved in corps activities. Learning to play the tenor horn, he joined the band and became a member of the songsters. Also pictured is Major David Squirrell, who assisted with soldiership classes. Andrew Cracknell held the flag. – DA
Find out more about formalising your membership of The Salvation Army and ways in which you can make a spiritual commitment at salvationist.org.uk/membership
salvationist.org.uk
