Salvationist 14 December 2019

SALVATIONIST

No.1735 Price 70p

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 14 December 2019

Joy! Joy! Joy!

Celebrating Christmas

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

BRITS STILL SEE VALUE IN CHRISTINGLE SERVICES TO REMEMBER THOSE IN DIFFICULTY

‘REVERSE ADVENT CALENDAR’ LAUNCHED BY FOOD BANK TO ASK FOR GIFTS FOR THOSE IN NEED

POPE’S LETTER ON NATIVITY SCENES SHARES THE STORY BEHIND A BELOVED CHRISTMAS TRADITION

A new survey has found that 87 per cent of Brits believe it’s important to think about or help people who are facing difficulties during the Christmas period.

The research carried out by The Children’s Society sheds a light on Christingle services, which help raise money for the most vulnerable children and young people in Britain.

Nearly half (48 per cent) of respondents said they knew what a Christingle service was, and a nostalgic 38 per cent of those surveyed said they remembered attending a Christingle service as a child.

The services are usually held from the start of December… with Christmas Eve a particularly popular time.

Mark Russell, chief executive of The Children’s Society, said: ‘Christingle services are a fun way to help us support young people at Christmas – so far over one million vulnerable children and young people have been helped by people across the country enjoying these distinctive celebrations.

‘The services are really special – they include hymns, messages of hope, readings and the chance to learn more about The Children’s Society.

This year I hope many more people will see attending a Christingle as a tradition to look forward to…’

Christingle services were first introduced to the Church of England in 1968 to fundraise for The Children’s Society.

A food bank has turned the festive tradition of Advent calendars on its head by asking for people to donate daily gifts for those in need in the lead-up to Christmas.

Provide Devon, a food bank based in Honicknowle, Plymouth… has arranged for donation boxes to be placed in almost all Co-op stores across the city of Plymouth, of which there are 23, in addition to in libraries and local businesses.

The food bank is asking people to buy items of food as they shop in the Co-op supermarkets and then drop them in donation boxes as they leave over the course of December.

The donations will then be distributed to needy families in desperate need of food.

Pope Francis issued an apostolic letter… on the meaning and importance of Nativity scenes, calling for this ‘wonderful sign’ to be more widely displayed in family homes and public places throughout the world.

‘The enchanting image of the Christmas crèche, so dear to the Christian people, never ceases to arouse amazement and wonder…’ Pope Francis wrote in Admirabile Signum, meaning ‘a wonderful sign’ in Latin.

‘With this letter, I wish to encourage the beautiful family tradition of preparing the Nativity scene in the days before Christmas, but also the custom of setting it up in the workplace, in schools, hospitals, prisons and town squares,’ he said…

‘Setting up the Christmas crèche in our homes helps us to relive the history of what took place in Bethlehem.’

The Independent

The Catholic Herald

Premier

The Guardian

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(tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – (tel) 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – (tel) 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – (tel) 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – (tel) 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – (tel) 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 14 December 2019

SALVATION ARMY WARNS OF WINTER DEATHS AS HOMELESS NUMBERS RISE Hundreds of homeless people will die over the winter, The Salvation Army warned… as it opens its night shelters across the country.

The charity is calling for urgent investment in support services to prevent people falling into what it calls ‘the rough sleeping trap’ following years of rising demand for places in its shelters.

‘We will always provide shelter for those forced to sleep rough, especially during winter, but for many a temporary safe space and a hot meal are not enough to save them,’ said Mitch Menagh, the charity’s director of homelessness services.

‘Those people we help invariably have complex, multiple needs including relationship breakdown, childhood trauma, alcohol dependency and drug abuse.

Homeless people die young and that won’t stop until there is investment in support to help end the revolving door of homelessness.’

DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH (tel) 01933 445445 (option 1, option 1) (email) subscriptions@satcol.org TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101 Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

ISSN 2516-5909

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant

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Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS Quotes from the media

REPEAT THE SOUNDING JOY ISAAC Watts, who was born in 1674, started writing poems at the age of six. He was once caught with his eyes open during family prayers, and when asked why, he replied: ‘A little mouse for want of stairs/ Ran up a rope to say its prayers.’ To persuade his father not to punish him, he pleaded: ‘O father, father, pity take,/ And I will no more verses make.’

His father recognised his talent, though, and a few years later, when Isaac complained about the dreary hymns in church, encouraged him to write some livelier, more joyful ones. The rest, as they say, is history: Isaac went on to write more than 600 hymns, 14 of which are in the Army songbook.

Two of his most well-known hymns are ‘When I Survey The Wondrous Cross’ (SASB 208), sung particularly at Easter, and ‘Joy To The World’ (SASB 113), one of the more upbeat Christmas carols.

‘Joy To The World’ is mentioned twice in this week’s Salvationist. It was the opening song of the Army’s carol concert at the Royal Albert Hall, featured on pages 11 to 13.

Joy was a hallmark of the occasion, but the audience were also reminded of the harsh realities of life as they heard from a survivor of human trafficking. Even so, despite all she had been through, joy shone through as she witnessed to her faith in Christ.

In our third Advent reflection on page 15, Major Cliff Allchin uses lines from ‘Joy To The World’ to emphasise that the source of our joy at Christmas is the birth of the Saviour who transforms lives. He challenges us to ‘share the joy of Christmas’.

For Advent this year I’ve been reading Commissioner Phil Needham’s new book of meditations, Christmas Breakthrough. He refers to ‘Joy To The World’ and highlights the last verse, which mentions Jesus’ rule over the world and ‘the glories of his righteousness’. He says: ‘We do occasionally see glimpses of his rule and righteousness, but this world has a long, long way to go. Why is that? Perhaps the answer lies with Church inhabitants whose hearts do not prepare him room. Christians locked within the dirge of a dull and compromised Christian religion. Christians who don’t have the compassion and courage of a joyful heart. Christians who do not really sing while they march their witness into the world.’

He has a point. Some of us give the impression that Christianity is to be endured not enjoyed, and that the depth of our faith is measured by the length of our face.

Of course, mental health issues and life’s tough experiences make it hard for some people to be joyful. The last thing they need to hear is ‘cheer up’. But that’s not the message of Christmas. The message is that God is with us and, in Christ, he has reconciled us to himself. Knowing him means knowing joy that nothing else can give – and nothing else can take away.

That doesn’t mean going around with a permanent smile on our faces or simply displaying superficial cheerfulness. But it does mean having a strong confidence in God that helps us approach life with a deep and profound sense of joy. With that, he can use us to bring joy to the world.

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News

4 to 7

News feature 8 and 9 Officers awarded on graduation day

News

10

News feature Carol concert gifts hope

11

by Shanelle Manderson

Photo feature 12 and 13 Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army Reflection Transformed by a baby

14

by Brian Lewis

Advent reflection Joy

15

by Major Cliff Allchin

Bible study The Light

16 and 17

by Lieut-Colonel Jenine Main

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Lynda Levis

Previews Words Of Life

18

previewed by Major Christine Clement

Thirteen Astonishing Years

by General John Larsson (Retired)

Reflection Unhindered access

18

by Denis Fothergill

Letters

19

Announcements

20

New commitments

21

Adverts

22 and 23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Rodney Kingston

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

FRONT PAGE PICTURE Paul Harmer SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

Salvationist 14 December 2019

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NEWS

SOUTHPORT: The fifth annual Proms concert was a tremendous success with the band and two young soloists raising £660 for the Big Collection. A near-capacity crowd enjoyed performances from 12-year-old harpist Heather Stark and 15-year-old vocalist Josie Lamplough (Birmingham Citadel). The band contributed classics including ‘March Militaire’ and ‘Les Toreadors’, accompanied by a powerful multimedia presentation. The evening concluded with the audience joining the band, Josie and her mum, Stephanie Lamplough, for ‘Rule, Britannia!’, ‘Land Of Hope And Glory’ and ‘Jerusalem’. – G. M. ‘Deputy bandmasters’ Christian and Freddie conduct ‘Star Lake’

HINCKLEY: Dunstable Band’s weekend visit began with an open-air meeting. People took the opportunity to request hymn tunes and were invited to the evening festival. The concert was well attended, with additional chairs brought in. Items included the cornet trio ‘The Veterans’, performed by Dunstable corps officer Major Stephen Brevitt and Bandsmen David Edmonds and Jim Burns. Chloe Brevitt delighted the congregation with her vocal solo ‘Hide Me Now’, and the male voices brought a rendition of ‘I’ll Not Turn Back’. On Sunday Jim led a time of holiness worship. The meeting also included the euphonium solo ‘That’s The Spirit’ by 16-year-old Bartholomew Mutsawu and the march ‘Star Lake’. The weekend concluded with the host band joining the visitors to play ‘Montreal Citadel’. – B. A.

BELLSHILL: The North East England Divisional Youth Chorus presented a varied and uplifting programme to a full congregation on Saturday evening, led by Divisional Youth Specialist Jason Tasker and Regional Specialist of Music and Creative Arts Stephen Burn. The chorus led worship on Sunday morning, themed around Give Thanks. Members introduced each song with an accompanying verse of Scripture, and shared their testimonies. The weekend finished with an open-air meeting at Glasgow City Centre Corps. – M. S. 4

Salvationist 14 December 2019

Dulverton Primary School house captains give Welling £260 raised by the school to support families at Christmas

IPSWICH BRAMFORD ROAD: The Sunshine Circle friendship club celebrated its 60th anniversary. Members enjoyed an afternoon tea and a quiz about the year 1959.

They gave thanks to God for his faithfulness over the past 60 years and for the faithful service of their previous and current leaders.– J. H.

Chief Secretary reopens hall HARPENDEN CHIEF Secretary Colonel Lee Graves cut the ribbon at the reopening of the refurbished hall while the band played.

Later, more than 200 people filled the worship hall to share and celebrate before God all that had been given to them. The congregation included past and present members of the corps, contractors, architects and divisional and territorial staff, as well as friends, neighbours, councillors and businesses from the community.

On Sunday Colonels Lee and Debbie Graves led the meetings, blessing and challenging those present. – K. G.

St Austell corps officer Major Heather Godwin receives more than £450 from Matthew Daubney, who ran his first half-marathon to raise money for the corps

Mattie Orr, pictured with Kilmarnock corps officers Captains Les and Emma Heal, presents £500 to Odette Landsburgh from Ayrshire Cancer Support, raised through her stall at the corps café and home league; £500 was also given to the Nigeria Territory officers training college renovation fund

BARGOED: To celebrate the 117th corps anniversary the South and Mid Wales Fellowship Band led the morning meeting and an afternoon concert. The band and corps folk shared a meal cooked by Jan and Jed Sutcliff and all had a wonderful time. – L. C.

LEEK: Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls Songsters and Majors Ian and Tracey Mountford (Central East DHQ) helped celebrate the 132nd corps anniversary. The songsters led a festival on Saturday night featuring a solo by Dianne Ridley and a drama and testimony by Richard Ellis. The timbrelists also performed. The celebrations continued on Sunday with meetings led by the majors and featuring the host songsters, band, junior singing group and timbrelists. It was a fantastic weekend celebrating the history and future of the corps. – R. J.

Harlow corps officer Major Chris Sandford presents long-service awards to Bandsman Malcolm Ford and Songsters Yvonne Ascott and Sylvia Bennett, and commissions Bandswoman Jenny Owers and Maureen Eggleton as songsters; Major Karen Sandford, Songster Leader Liz Harrod and Bandmaster Andi Harrod are also pictured Salvationist 14 December 2019

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NEWS

BALHAM: The 128th corps anniversary celebrations got off to a flying start with the November Fringe Fellowship Social, entitled Korea Calling, led by a group from New Malden. A full audience was treated to a varied programme including the band and songsters, worship dance and drama items by the youth group, signing, a clarinet solo and tambourine playing with flag waving by home league members. Divisional Officer for Leader Development Major Ian Woodgate led the meeting on Sunday, which included a brief history of the corps and items by the children’s singing group and band. – D. B.

BOSTON: The award-winning Music Man Project has been started at the corps following a visit from founder David Stanley and his team.

Run by musicians and qualified leaders, the programme provides enjoyment, education and unique performance opportunities for people with learning difficulties. The first event was a success, with A night to remember tears of joy from corps volunteers, BOSCOMBE carers and members. The take-up of the project has been so strong AN evening of remembrance that an extra session has already began with the band playing been added. – G. N. ‘Fanfare For The Common Man’. Lieut-Colonel Malcolm Forster read a poem before a quartet of bandsmen sang ‘Anthem’ and the congregation were reminded of Normandy veteran Commissioner Harry

Stapleford’s Nicely Saved charity shop commemorates Remembrance Sunday 6

Salvationist 14 December 2019

Bible conference unites hundreds KENT FOUR hundred people from Armáda Spásy Margate, Chatham, Gravesend and Dover – Czech, Slovak and Roma language Salvation Army expressions – linked up for a three-day Bible conference.

The theme Who Will Go, And Whom Shall I Send? was taken from Isaiah 6:1–8, and resulted in the resounding response: ‘Here I am, send me.’

Lieutenants Roman Farkas and Darina Farkasova from Slovakia, and two visiting pastors from Maranatha church, Roman Pacan and Tomas Budi, led teachings. Margate with Gravesend corps officers Majors David and Kathryn Blowers and fresh expression pioneer leaders David Frater and Roman Mukula also brought messages.

Worship bands from Margate and Chatham ministered, and many lives were changed as people were challenged, encouraged and healed.

Three men came in from the street as they heard the worship and one was saved before he left the building. – K. B. HALESOWEN: West Midlands Fellowship Band and the Voices In Harmony choir raised £2,200 for Cancer Research UK through a concert at Cornbow Hall. The choir and band were well received by a near-capacity audience. This was the first time many of them had come into contact with Salvation Army music. – S. B. Read OF being dropped behind enemy lines. Melissa Nock gave a moving vocal solo, ‘Requiem For A Soldier’, before the songsters sang ‘Peace To The World’.

The singing company started the second half of the evening before the YP band played, and the primary delighted everyone with their version of ‘So Long, Farewell’.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Service, for which Songster Joy Whittingham has been a volunteer and speaker for seven years, was chosen to receive the £1,000 raised through the evening.

After an act of remembrance, corps officer Major David Alton gave a thought-provoking message and the senior and junior timbrelists performed to ‘The Red Shield’. The song ‘God’s Soldier’ concluded another night to remember.

The corps is thankful to CSM Nigel Bishop, who not only organised the evening but was also responsible for the excellent multimedia presentations throughout. – R. C.

NORWICH MILE CROSS: Sunshine Café leaders Patricia and Richard Thorpe attended an exhibition showcasing the work of Norfolk Knitters and Stitchers. The café, which supports people with dementia and their families and carers, has built relationships in the community, including with the knitting group. The knitters make items for fundraising, including twiddle muffs for people with dementia and lap blankets for local care homes. As winter approaches, the knitters are busy making hats and scarves, which will help the café support people in the community experiencing homelessness and families in need. – P. R.

MERTHYR TYDFIL: Music Editorial Manager Andrew Blyth (THQ) led musicians weekend, which began with a Salvation Sounds Festival. Music sections from Cwm and guest soloist International Staff Bandsman Nicholas Brill (cornet) joined the fellowship band and songsters in a varied programme. Sunday morning’s meeting took the theme Enter To Worship, Depart To Serve before questions and answers with Andrew. During the evening meeting, long-service certificates were given to five musicians, and two local officers were commissioned. – L. B.

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD: The communities of Shiney Row and South Hylton were out in force to mark Remembrance Sunday.

Majors Eddie and Elaine Arnold led the service in the village centre with music by the band. The afternoon service at South Hylton was preceded by a march, led by the band. Corps officers Majors Linda and Mark Billard led worship. The Salvation Army’s presence throughout the day was appreciated and numerous members of the two communities voiced their thanks. – R. B. STAPLE HILL: Former member of the RAF CSM Marc Willetts led the festival of remembrance. Guests included D-Day veterans David Jeffries and Ken Turner, and 14-year-old air cadet Corporal Matthew Rogers, who spoke about how a recent visit to Normandy had changed his outlook on life. The music sections supported throughout, with the band playing ‘Hymn To The Fallen’ alongside a video of ‘The Shores Of Normandy’. The evening ended with the march ‘The Red Shield’. – V. W.

REDHILL: Lieut-Colonels Peter and Maureen Wood led the 129th corps anniversary celebrations. Everyone enjoyed songs including ‘Sing We Many Years Of Blessing’ (SASB 977). The message was themed The Abundant Lifestyle: Sharing In God’s Good News. – V. S.

BUCKINGHAM: Nineteen young people took part in a half-term Football Academy outreach aimed at children aged 5 to 11.

Members of the corps ran daily sessions throughout the week, assisted by DYS David Perkins and Simon Perkins (Reading Central). They used the Higher Sport material produced by Scripture Union, which included drills and daily team talks based on the life of Joseph. The leaders were amazed by the young people’s receptiveness to the message about Jesus. At the end they were presented with certificates and invited to the corps children’s programmes. One boy decided to become involved in Salvation Army activities. – X. C.

Bellshill Band march from the hall to lead the Remembrance Sunday parade and service, this year conducted by divisional mission enabler Major Steve Dutfield

Leigh-on-Sea and Southend Citadel Bands lead the march from the Remembrance Sunday service to the saluting base Salvationist 14 December 2019

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NEWS FEATURE

Officers awarded on graduation day YORK THE culmination of a period of intense study and support from family and friends was celebrated at a graduation ceremony in the magnificent setting of York Minster, writes Higher Education Course Leader and Tutor Major Paul Hilditch (WBC).

Hundreds of students graduating from York St John University were joined by representatives of the fifth cohort of officers to complete the Christian Theology and Practice programme.

Since 2009 The Salvation Army’s School for In-Service Training and Development (SISTAD) has maintained a partnership with the university to provide higher education for officers at degree level. This arrangement has supported more than 70 officers in gaining either a bachelor’s degree with honours or a graduate diploma.

On this occasion, 13 officers from the territory, along with Major Anna Kotrikadze from Estonia, were presented with their awards by the Archbishop of York, the Most Rev Dr John Sentamu, who is chancellor of the university.

‘Fanfare For A Graduation’ announced the academic procession, which took place while

the university choir sang Parry’s ‘I Was Glad’, prior to the chancellor declaring the congregation open. Each student was then presented in order to receive their degree.

Celebrating the written word was a theme of this year’s ceremonies as honorary degrees were awarded to Emma Crosby, for her work in broadcast journalism, and to Benjamin Myers, for his work as an author and journalist.

The Christian Theology and Practice course is delivered by SISTAD at William Booth College, and is designed for officers in ministry to develop their skills in biblical hermeneutics, contemporary theology, the emerging Church, spirituality and Christian engagement with ethical issues. A range of learning and teaching strategies challenge officers to upskill in key areas for ministry.

This, along with a self-designed assessment, completes the course, integrating knowledge, experience and skill in contemporary ministry.

The course runs over a two-year period with week-long residential events taking place three times a year. This considerable commitment from students is supported and facilitated by the tutor team and other staff, most of whom are part-time practitioner

‘

I hoped it would help me more deeply understand the reasoning behind what we believe and what we teach

’

Archbishop John Sentamu with Lieutenant Daniel Holland

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Salvationist 14 December 2019

tutors at WBC. The staff were represented in the academic procession and at the conferment lunch, where people expressed keen interest in and enthusiasm for the work of The Salvation Army.

The officers graduating were: Lieutenant Gemma Allen (Briston and Fakenham), Major Amanda Banner (South Shields), Major Gary Chaundy (Peterborough Citadel), Lieutenant Phillip Chisholm (Mirfield), Captain Philip Cole (Larne), Major Scott Cunliffe (Bangor), Lieutenant Jon Doyle (Maldon), Captain Tom Dunham (Plymouth Exeter Hall Whitleigh), Captain Les Heal (Kilmarnock), Lieutenant Daniel Holland (Homelessness Services, London), Captain Alison Hutchings (Southport),

‘

This course has both informed and shaped my practice as an officer

Lieutenant David Jones (Hull Citadel), Major Anna Kotrikadze (Finland and Estonia Territory), Lieutenant Emma Newton (Stornoway), Lieutenant Chris Still (Bedworth), Captain Brian Ward (Booth House, Swindon) and Lieutenant Wendy Watkins (Stepney).

CAPTAIN BRIAN WARD I VERY much benefited from my studies. I chose this qualification as I hoped it would help me more deeply understand the reasoning behind what we believe, what we teach and how it relates to the modern world in which I minister as a homelessness services chaplain.

We no longer live in a world where people simply believe. They want evidence of how it relates to their life – so we are constantly required to provide apologetics, a defence of our faith. In my ministry, I often speak to people with a variety of spiritual experience, and sometimes none at all. However, everyone is seeking some type of rationale for their life.

The main learning point for me was to be able to consent to our faith and doctrines and yet find language that would help people understand them. Our essays were

divided between academic understanding and practical application, which helped me reflect on why I did what I did and the effectiveness of my ministry. I am so pleased that I made the effort and I am grateful to SISTAD and my homelessness services colleagues for all their support.

’

LIEUTENANT WENDY WATKINS I HAVE never really considered myself an academic, and my experience of education was not a positive one. When the opportunity came to study the Christian Theology and Practice degree, it was an opportunity for me to finally put an end to some of the negativity I had grown up with.

Studying has opened many conversations in my community. After every new module there were great conversations with parents from our baby song group. They would go home and search online for the subjects I had been reading about and would be armed with a list of questions the following week.

The topics of discussion included church buildings, feminist theology, the Bible and spirituality. These are conversations with non-Christians that I never imagined having before the course.

I absolutely loved taking the time to read for my dissertation around the subject of the ‘Theology of place-making and disused Salvation Army buildings’. This course has both informed and shaped my practice as an officer. I am grateful for the time, support and encouragement given by the tutors, my family, Stepney Corps and our beautiful community. Thank you!

Salvationist 14 December 2019

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NEWS

Picture: ANDREW KING PHOTOGRAPHY

First lady Melania Trump visits The Salvation Army CLAPTON THE first lady of the United States of America, Melania Trump, and the wife of the US Ambassador to the UK, Suzanne Johnson, visited the corps and helped with the Army’s Christmas Present Appeal.

They joined volunteers and children from the nearby Baden Powell Primary School to wrap presents for the appeal. They also listened to carols played by a Salvation Army band and a festive song chosen and performed by the children.

Territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill greeted Mrs Trump and Mrs Johnson and talked about the Army’s work in the area.

Commissioner Anthony said: ‘The visit was an opportunity to promote our Christmas Present Appeal, where we ask people to buy an extra children’s gift this Christmas so we can donate it to a family in need. I am very grateful to Mrs Trump and Mrs Johnson, who personally donated gifts to our appeal.

‘I was also proud to highlight Clapton Corps’ work with the local community. Corps officers Majors Karl and Ruth Gray have worked hard to meet the needs of local people. From food parcels to after-school clubs, their team works tirelessly to reach out to those who need us most.’ – A. R.

GILLINGHAM: Fifty ladies from nearby corps and churches met for a women’s breakfast with a Middle Eastern theme. Deputy Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Major Heather Grinsted (THQ) spoke about the Army’s work in Kuwait, and Alison Jackson, from the Princess Project, spoke about their work supporting vulnerable young mums. Pictured are corps officer Major Anna Giannarou, Major Heather, Alison and Corps Secretary Julie Millest. – J. M. 10

Salvationist 14 December 2019

Favourite Army brass pieces revealed SP&S THE Salvation Army’s favourite brass pieces have been revealed.

The Salvation Army Music Index (Sami) recently set up a Brass Hall of Fame, asking for the world’s opinion on their favourite pieces. About seven hundred votes were cast.

‘The Light Of The World’ by Dean Goffin and ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’ and ‘Resurgam’, both by Eric Ball, topped the list.

Dale Caffull, co-founder of Sami, said: ‘More than 230 pieces were voted for, with

OAKENGATES: Former British middleweight boxer Andy Flute visited the corps to testify how God changed his life and helped him face his toughest fight: addiction. Early in his career he started to drink alcohol to celebrate his achievements, but years of battling addiction followed. At his lowest point, after a ten-day binge, a friend prayed for him with a pastor. Then Andy invited God into his life. While in rehab he wrote Jesus In My Corner, a book to share his account of God’s transformative work. Andy (above right) is pictured with his father, Alan, and corps officer Major Carol Loveridge. – C. L. O Leek

raised more than £780 through an autumn fayre, which included stalls for Christmas crafts, cakes and toys

publication dates ranging from 1887 to 2019 – evidencing the huge variety of music that we are so fortunate to have access to in the Salvation Army banding world.

‘It was fascinating to hear our voters’ reasoning for their choices – some went for excitement, others a personal connection or deeply meaningful message associated with the music.’ – R. C. O The complete Hall of Fame rankings are available at samusicindex.com/ hall-of-fame O An album of the top ten pieces recorded by the International Staff Band is available to download from samusicindex.com

North Walsham Bandsman Cyril Morse receives a long-service award from Divisional Commander Major Derek Jones for 60 years’ service in the band and songsters; he and his wife, Gwen, were transferred to the band and songster reserves

NEWS FEATURE

ROYAL ALBERT HALL THE ornate setting coupled with the vibrant staging set the festive atmosphere for the Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army carol concert.

Regarded as some of the finest military musicians in the world, the Fanfare Team from the Bands of the Household Division opened with an elaborate piece before the audience sang ‘Joy To The World’.

After extending a warm welcome to guests, Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant pointed to the theme for the evening, The Gift Of Hope, and in his prayer recognised that ‘Jesus is the source of hope that is incomparable, eternal and complete’.

He introduced celebrity readers EastEnders actor Stephen Rahman-Hughes and national treasure Mary Berry, most famously known for her work as a judge on The Great British Bake Off, who brought the Christmas story from the Gospels of Luke and John.

Before the concert Mary said: ‘We should all remember the meaning of Christmas – the birth of Christ.

‘I think of The Salvation Army at this time because they’re very caring. When people have nowhere to go they come to you. My very first knowledge of The Salvation Army was the band playing in the main street.’

The International Staff Songsters presented numerous items throughout the evening, including a captivating rendition of ‘Born On A New Day’ and a spirited performance of ‘Shepherd’s Joy’, supported by guest violinist John Hooper. The International Staff Band

accompanied Christmas carol favourites and brought bright arrangements of ‘Jingle Bells’ and ‘Farandole’, as well as accompanying flugelhorn soloist Richard Woodrow in ‘Sweet Little Jesus Boy’.

The audience broke into thunderous applause after Wells Cathedral School student Sophie Harbridge’s chillingly beautiful ‘Pie Jesu’. Athena, a trio comprising Welsh classical singers Gwawr Edwards, Sioned Terry and Ellen Williams, brought harmonious union to ‘O Holy Night’. The group was formed after the artists came together one evening in concert and have since toured with Only Men Aloud singer Steffan Rhys Hughes.

A multimedia presentation highlighted the Army’s anti-trafficking and modern slavery work. In a moving account of her journey, Malaika Oringo, a Ugandan living in the Netherlands who was helped by The Salvation Army, shared how she was coerced into a life of servitude at the age of 16 after being promised a better life and free education.

Referring to the story of a girl who was asked why she was attempting to return fish to the sea after they had been washed onto the shore when she couldn’t save them all, Malaika explained that every survivor she inspired through her work as a human rights advocate mattered.

‘This “fish” is standing in front of you empowered and rehabilitated because someone took time and invested in my education and saw me,’ she said. ‘Once you see me you free me. Today, I wear my scars as a badge of honour, and to prove that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.’

Multi-award-winning singer Claas P Jambor echoed Malaika’s words with the song

Pictures: PAUL HARMER

Carol concert gifts hope

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

‘Survival (Today Is A Good Day)’.

In his message, Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill recognised the ‘empties’ – the manger, the cross and the tomb – and encouraged everyone to say to the Lord ‘please empty me this Christmas, but please fill me to overflowing with you’.

‘Christ wishes to fill all our lives with his very presence, with the stuff we really need this Christmas: love, joy, peace and the great gift of hope,’ he added, reiterating that Jesus brings life and light to all.

The ISB and ISS with soloists Helen Dymott and Neil Lacey combined for the meditative medley of ‘What A Beautiful Name’ and ‘Agnus Dei’, before the rousing congregational carol ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’. Lieut-Colonel Dean thanked all the participants, including Michael Clack who was accompanying on the organ at his 59th consecutive carol concert, before bidding the crowd farewell, bringing another joyful Christmas carol concert to a close. – S. M.

Salvationist 14 December 2019

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PHOTO FEATURE I Carol concert

Claas P Jambor

Athena

John Hooper

Michael Clack

Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant

Neil Lacey and Helen Dymott

The ISB

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Salvationist 14 December 2019

Stephen Rahman-Hughes

Mary Berry

The ISS

Sophie Harbridge

Malaika Oringo

Fanfare Team

Salvationist 14 December 2019

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Transformed by a baby Brian Lewis imagines what might have happened to the innkeeper’s wife

I

T was early evening. The sun had long since gone down and a bitter cold wind blew from the east. The day was slowly drawing a cloak of darkness around itself.

Despite the cold, the moonlit streets were busy with travellers, huddled deep inside their coats, wending their way to the warmth of guesthouses, inns or whatever accommodation they could find.

They had come from near and far in response to the decree issued by Caesar Augustus for a census of the population.

Now they needed shelter the night before registering.

John the innkeeper looked out of his bedroom window at the people wandering the streets. Many people had come knocking on his door but he had turned a number away; all the rooms in his inn were full.

He turned to his wife, Ruth.

‘I suppose we could squeeze one or two more in,’ he said.

‘No, definitely not,’ she replied. ‘The ones we have look too poor to pay. I don’t know why you bother with this inn.

Sell up, get a proper job. I am fed up with all the work – I’m just sick and tired of this place.’

John looked at Ruth with sadness. She had once been so gentle and caring; now she had become bitter and resentful.

Even her appearance had changed from tidy to slovenly.

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Salvationist 14 December 2019

‘I’ll close the curtains,’ she snapped, ‘or we will attract more travellers.’

Lying in bed, Ruth stared into the darkness. She felt so miserable and downhearted but somehow could not shake herself out of it.

‘Poor John, having to put up with me,’ she thought.

Still peering out of the window, John noticed a couple making their way towards the inn. The man was half carrying the woman. She stumbled and the man lifted her to him.

The sound of an urgent knock echoed around the inn.

‘They’ll go away, leave them,’ said Ruth, snuggling back into the bedclothes.

Another loud knock, more urgent this time.

‘I’d better go down,’ said John, and he left the bedroom.

It was some time later when he returned.

‘Well, I hope you got rid of them,’ mumbled Ruth from beneath the blankets.

John did not reply straight away, then quietly said: ‘No, I couldn’t turn them away. They needed help and warmth. I made room for them in the stable and spread some hay for them to lie on.’ He added thoughtfully: ‘The woman – she’s expecting a baby.’

‘You should have sent them away,’ replied Ruth. ‘Expecting a baby? They should not be out on a cold night like this

looking for shelter. It’s not our business anyway.’

It was later – how long, she didn’t know – when a cry came from outside, followed by another. Ruth got up and, putting her coat on, made her way to the stable. There was something about the cry that had moved her.

In the rays of moonlight that filtered into the stable, Ruth could see the man leaning over the woman who was lying on the straw. He was stroking her forehead.

Ruth knew what she had to do. She went back into the inn and returned with hot water and soft blankets.

A little later Ruth held a baby in her arms.

‘It’s a boy,’ she said. ‘Have you a name in mind?’

The mother stirred and murmured, ‘Not yet.’

‘He’s a lovely baby,’ Ruth remarked, then added: ‘I’ve longed for a child but it was not to be.’

Ruth became aware of others standing at the door of the stable. She turned and noticed her husband talking to some shepherds.

‘Is the Christ baby here?’ one of them asked. ‘We were told, while tending our sheep, that he would be here, lying in a manger.’

John looked at Ruth. She smiled, then said to the shepherds: ‘You have travelled far to see the baby. You must have some food and drink, and rest with us tonight.’

She went over and knelt beside the woman, who quietly said, ‘My name is Mary. Thank you for being so kind.’

The words bore into Ruth’s head.

‘I’ve been such a wretched person and so unkind to my husband,’ she sobbed.

Ruth became aware that John had his arm around her. He slowly helped her up.

They both looked at the baby and suddenly there was a calm, a peace, surrounding the child born in a stable.

BRIAN IS A SOLDIER AT FAKENHAM

A ADVE AD DVE VENT ENT R EFLE EFLE EF LECT LECT CTIO ON ADVENT REFLECTION

Joy

Joy to the world!

Our Advent series continues as Major Cliff Allchin reflects on joy

H

OW many Christmas carols can you name that include the word ‘joy’, ‘joyous’ or ‘joyful’? I was quite surprised when I counted nearly 30, from the obvious ones, such as ‘Joy To The World’, to the less obvious, such as ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’. Joy at Christmas? We cannot escape it. It certainly is the season to be jolly.

But why should Christmas Day be different from other days? Why should this day – one of the shortest days at the darkest time of the year – be so filled with merrymaking, singing and dancing? Is it simply a celebration of family, of love, of friendship, of the gathering together of all who are precious to you? Is it merely mirth-filled merriment to signify that light has begun to conquer darkness?

As Christians we rejoice that the world, which was in darkness, has ‘seen a great light’ (Isaiah 9:2). And we are joyful that our Father sent his only Son so that we might be gathered as children ‘born of God’ (John 1:13).

It is to the birth of a child in the little city of Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago that we turn to discover the source of, and inspiration for, our Christmas joy.

JOY TO THE WORLD! THE LORD IS COME First, we go to an encounter between two pregnant cousins: Elizabeth, an older woman, who thought her hopes of becoming a mother had faded, and Mary, a teenage virgin, possibly visiting her

cousin to escape the hateful village gossip in Nazareth.

I am intrigued by two parts of this scene. I am fascinated that when Elizabeth was greeted by Mary, the baby in her womb ‘leaped for joy’ (Luke 1:44).

Then, immediately, Mary burst out into her song of praise: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour’ (vv46 and 47).

What brought forth this outburst? Was it her reaction to the baby leaping in Elizabeth’s womb? Could it be that Mary, who had hurried to the hill country of Judea, was beginning to doubt her place in the history of humanity’s redemption story? Could it be that it took the flip of a foetus for her to understand that she was bearing within her the fulfilment of people’s hopes?

The joy of Elizabeth and Mary is echoed in our celebrations today.

JOY TO THE WORLD! THE SAVIOUR REIGNS The second appearance of joy in the Nativity story is found on a hillside on the outskirts of Bethlehem, when the night vigil of some shepherds was interrupted by the cloudburst of an angel with this message: ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord’ (Luke 2:10 and 11).

The message about a Saviour turned the shepherds’ fear into happiness.

In 2017 the British explorer Benedict

Allen was reported as being lost in Papua New Guinea. When he was found, he said: ‘I wasn’t expecting to be rescued, I never asked to be rescued, but when it came, for the sake of my family, I thought: I’ve got to do this.’

Can people only be rescued if they are aware of their plight? The news of great joy that comes with Christmas also comes with the challenge that we are in a dangerous situation – that we need to be saved. In Matthew’s Gospel we find that Joseph was instructed to name the baby Jesus, ‘because he will save his people from their sins’ (1:21).

The news of great joy is that a Saviour has come to rescue us from our dire predicament. If we are lost, we can be found. If we are sick, we can be healed. If we are blind, we can be given sight. If we are dead, we can become alive. A Saviour has been born!

Is it any wonder that Christmas is, as the song goes, the most wonderful time of the year? Let’s deck the halls with boughs of holly and get those chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Don’t worry if last Christmas was a letdown: this Christmas, celebrate the wonderful news of a Saviour.

And may the Spirit of Christ leap with great joy within your heart. How will you share the joy of Christmas this year?

MAJOR ALLCHIN IS CORPS OFFICER, LEEDS CENTRAL Salvationist 14 December 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

The Light Lieut-Colonel Jenine Main reflects on the example of Jesus STUDY PASSAGE: JOHN 1:6–18

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HEN I was at school in the mid 1970s, we were required to study at least one science subject. I chose physics. Why? Possibly because I was the only girl in the class.

Snippets of knowledge, such as light reflection and refraction, remain with me.

In John 1:9, John refers to Jesus as ‘the true Light that gives light to everyone’. I wonder how a physicist would explain ‘true light’. I assume it’s light that travels directly from its source to the receiver with no interruptions to its journey.

Jesus came into the world as the true Light. He came directly from God and brings light directly to us. He cannot be overcome by the darkness. Notice how these first few verses of John’s Gospel bear similarity to the opening verses of Genesis; God sent light into the world and separated the light from the darkness.

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

by Major Lynda Levis

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QUESTIONS O Can you describe a time when you recognised Jesus as the ‘true Light’?

O When Jesus brings light to the dark areas of our lives, how do we respond?

Jesus was not recognised or welcomed by those he had created and loved. Although the Jews were desperately seeking the coming of the Messiah, they had predefined ideas of what he would be like. Some expected the Messiah to free them from the tyranny of the Romans.

Others expected him to free them from the Law. Some hoped he would come as a king. When he didn’t meet those expectations, Jesus was crucified.

QUESTION O How do you react when Jesus doesn’t meet your expectations?

John explains the good news: ‘To all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God… born of God’ (vv12 and 13).

Paul wrote about how we are adopted into the family of God as his children (see Romans 8:14–17). As such, we are led by the Spirit of God. This can give us confidence in the knowledge that we belong to God’s family and that we are heirs to an eternal inheritance.

Belonging to a family should be the natural order for everyone. Sadly, that is not always the case. However, the offer to belong to God’s family and be adopted as his child is open to everyone who receives Jesus Christ as Lord.

QUESTIONS O Why do people find it so difficult to receive Jesus as Saviour and Lord?

O How does belonging to the family of God affect your life?

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. ( John 1:4 and 5)

The splendour of the King, clothed in majesty;/ Let all the Earth rejoice, all the Earth rejoice./ He wraps himself in light, and darkness tries to hide,/ And trembles at his voice, and trembles at his voice./ How great is our God, sing with me,/ How great is our God, and all will see/ How great, how great is our God. (SASB 64)

For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

(2 Corinthians 4:6)

Salvationist 14 December 2019

Jesus ‘became flesh and made his dwelling among us’ (v14). The Message paraphrases this as ‘moved into the neighbourhood’. Jesus didn’t avoid the ordinariness of life. For him, taking up residence among us – in the ‘neighbourhood’ of fallen humanity – was an immensely humbling experience (see Philippians 2:8).

QUESTION O Consider what this means for you.

How should it impact your everyday living?

John writes that Jesus ‘came from the Father, full of grace and truth’ (v14). This was evident in all his dealings with people, as he reached out with healing, love and power. He showed patience with his disciples when they struggled to understand his teaching. He spoke truth to the Pharisees and teachers of the Law. He demonstrated to us how to live a life full of grace and truth.

Getting that right is difficult, but as children of God and with Jesus making his dwelling among us, it is possible. As the word of God, the Bible, too, is full of grace and truth.

There are gracious words of comfort, strength and reassurance. There are truth-always-hurts words of challenge.

QUESTION there areas of your life that would benefit from a greater helping of grace and truth?

O Are

John addresses a common question: How can we know what God is like? ‘No one has ever seen God,’ he writes, ‘but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in the closest relationship with the Father, has made him known’ (v18).

Jesus makes God known to us.

There is nothing un-Christlike in God and nothing ungodly in Jesus Christ.

So much about God and his nature remains a mystery. As Christians, we are effectively living in an invisible realm within the visible world.

However, Jesus, as the true Light, came to reveal God and his nature to us – to bring the invisible into the visible.

As we strive to be more Christlike, let us study again and again how Jesus lived, what he said and how he behaved. As we do so, more of God will be revealed to us.

LIEUT-COLONEL MAIN IS TERRITORIAL SECRETARY FOR WOMEN’S MINISTRIES, CARIBBEAN TERRITORY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Light of the world,/ You stepped down into darkness,/ Opened my eyes, let me see/ Beauty that made this heart adore you,/ Hope of a life spent with you.

(SASB 114)

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’ ( John 8:12)

As with gladness men of old/ Did the guiding star behold,/ As with joy they hailed its light,/ Leading onward, beaming bright,/ So, most gracious Lord, may we/ Evermore be led to thee.

(SASB 101)

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

(1 John 1:7)

Prayer Lord, you brought light out of darkness and order out of chaos. Sometimes our lives feel dark and chaotic. Thank you that in those times we can turn to you, the true Light, and find in you our way back to hope and fullness of life.

Salvationist 14 December 2019

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PREVIEWS

Beginnings and Glory Words Of Life Editor Major Christine Clement introduces the January to April 2020 edition

T

HERE is a prayer attributed to Sir Francis Drake that included a thought: ‘It is not the beginning, but the continuing of the same, until it be thoroughly finished, that yieldeth the true glory.’ In this edition of Words Of Life the beginnings are easy to identify – Creation, Israel’s nationhood, Christ’s public ministry and the birth of the Church. In all these events, and in Paul’s two letters to the Thessalonians, we catch glimpses of God’s glory.

Guest writer Captain Marie-Eve Bösiger explores the freedom we have in Christ through his death and resurrection. In contrast, Holy Week looks at attitudes that bound together the opposition to Jesus.

Come the weekend we need a rest and the encouragement to begin another week, so our Saturday and Sunday thoughts reflect these themes.

Of Life is available from SP&S priced £4.99 (plus postage and packing) or as an ebook on amazon.co.uk

O Words

Remarkable Army origins Introducing Thirteen Astonishing Years by General John Larsson (Retired)

‘E

ARLY one morning in May 1878 a tall bearded man, wearing a long yellow dressing gown and felt slippers, set off an explosion in his London bedroom. (The man in question was, of course, William Booth!)’

So begins chapter one of Thirteen Astonishing Years, the latest book from the pen of General John Larsson (Retired), which offers an insight into some of the most remarkable years in the history of The Salvation Army.

Drawing on a series of ‘Rear-mirror views’ articles published in Salvationist, the book comprises 36 short chapters, each focusing on events or personalities crucial to the expansion of the Army from 1878 to 1890 – a period that climaxed with the introduction of large-scale social work.

General Larsson tells the story of those years and introduces the key personalities through whom the Lord worked.

Astonishing Years will be available shortly from SP&S priced £7.50 (plus postage and packing) or as an ebook on amazon.co.uk or kobo.com

O Thirteen

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Salvationist 14 December 2019

Unhindered access Since sending this reflection to Salvationist in October, Denis Fothergill has been promoted to Glory. He described it as his testimony. It is published posthumously with the kind permission of his daughter

I

AM the finance director (unpaid!) of a limited company set up to maintain the site and buildings of our court, which comprises 16 privately owned apartments in three separate blocks.

We recently had a survey carried out by a fire inspector who advised that all the doors should be made to close automatically and that all stairways must be kept absolutely clear. Favourite pictures, ornaments, plants, and even fire extinguishers have all been removed to ensure uncluttered access for professional firefighters in the event of a fire breaking out. Needless to say, some owners were reluctant to see things they had grown accustomed to over the years having to be removed.

Though clearly not included in the fire report, I am left with two important thoughts that relate to my faith.

THE CLOSED DOOR ‘O Jesus, thou art standing/ Outside the fast-closed door,/ In lowly patience waiting,/ To pass the threshold o’er./ Shame on us, Christian people,/ His name and sign who bear,/ O shame, thrice shame upon us,/ To keep him standing there’ (SASB 614).

We long for non-Christians to open up to Christ, but this verse rightly suggests we Christians also need to ensure he has unhindered access to each of us at all times.

‘Swing wide the door of your heart to the King of kings,/ Bid him welcome, for wonderful peace he brings,/ He will shelter you under his outstretched wings;/ Swing wide the door of your heart to the King of kings’ (SASB 407).

THE STAIRWAY I believe God has his own secret stairway into every heart. The question is, do we always allow him unhindered access? Or have we let things that seem nice to have, and surely of little danger, become fixtures, with the potential to get in the way?

George Gershwin imagined a stairway going up in ‘Stairway To Paradise’: ‘I’ll build a stairway to Paradise/ With a new step ev’ry day!/ I’m gonna get there at any price;/ Stand aside, I’m on my way!’

In contrast, Albert Orsborn was clear that the stairway was coming down: ‘When wondrous words my Lord would say,/ That I unto his mind may reach,/ He chooses out a lowly way,/ And robes his thoughts in childlike speech./ He came right down to me,/ He came right down to me,/ To condescend to be my friend,/ He came right down to me’ (SASB 157).

I’m reinforcing my intention to keep my door open and ensure unhindered access via the priceless stairway – not out of fear of some potentially unhappy future event, but rather, being completely convinced of the unquestionable benefit of unhindered divine communion.

DENIS WAS A SOLDIER AT SALE

LETTERS

MIRIAM AND THE MYSTERY OF THE MISSING VASES I WAS interested to read Gillian Mawson’s article on wartime evacuation (Salvationist 9 November), and instantly recalled my own experience of being away from my parents during the dark days of the Second World War. My parents were the officers at Govan. There were air raids nightly over Glasgow and particularly around the shipyards of Govan. As soon as the warning went my mother, my auntie, my two brothers and me were herded down the stairs to our neighbour on the ground floor, where we stayed until the all-clear. My father was an air raid warden and we were always glad to hear the bell ring as he came home.

Some bright officer from THQ had the idea that it would be beneficial for all officers’ children in the area to be sent to a magnificent house in Clackmannanshire given to The Salvation Army for their use.

We were cared for by a major and his wife who had returned from the mission field. School places were found for us in the village of Alloa and each Sunday we were taken to the local corps.

Needless to say, discipline was difficult. The older boys ruled us and

were instrumental in carrying out numerous incidents that caused laughs and tears. One time a hole was dug in the garden and two Chinese vases were buried by our youthful leaders – we were told they would be sold after the war for a good price!

Many times we were sent to bed hungry, but mercifully we only had to wait until the officers had retired for the night: a young officer who had come to help look after us brought us plates of chips. She was loved by all the youngsters.

Our number diminished week by week, as children who were homesick wanted to be with their parents, regardless of the danger.

(One of my friends went home and was killed when a bomb fell on the air raid shelter where her father and mother were. Her mother survived.)

Eventually we returned to Govan.

Many years later, when I was a young people’s worker, I joined with others from the division for youth councils at Alloa. As I sat in that beautiful room and saw the Ochil Hills in the distance, I wondered if the vases were ever found…

Miriam Currie Belfast

GETTING THE BANDS BACK TOGETHER WHAT a joy to meet up with the guys of the Solid Rock Band at Gloucester on 3 November for their anniversary concert.

The capacity congregation was treated to a night of fond memories as the band presented old favourites and songs from their Footprints On The Water album.

It prompts the question: what’s happened to the ‘SA groups’, as we were called?

During the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, there were several good bands on the scene. I have fond memories of being part of New Life from Cradley Heath and leading youth worship at Butlin’s for the Holiday Plus Fellowship Week at Bognor Regis in 1976. We travelled to corps weekends at Newcastle, Penicuik and Banbury, South Yorkshire Youth Councils at Sheffield and countless gigs at youth clubs, working men’s clubs and local corps within the Birmingham Division.

Perhaps Salvationist readers would like to write in with memories of these times – it would be good to hear from you!

Stephen Bradley Halesowen

GOING WITH THE FLOW I HAVE always been a lover of brass bands enjoying upbeat numbers and particularly bands playing sensitive and well-shaped devotional music. But what a treat was in store when a friend gave me a CD that records similar melodies in a different genre: it was an album by Kenneth Downie of reflective piano improvisations called With The Flow.

To begin with, I intended to listen to just one of the five sections, but I was so blessed that I heard it all in one go.

What a rich treasury of spirituality it is, with a style that refreshes parts other arrangements could not reach. The melodies will raise your spirits, nourish your faith and lift you Heavenwards.

Let the commendation of General John Larsson (Retired) speak for itself: ‘Behind these reflections lies a lifetime of expertise, experience and devotion… Let the gentle flow of music bring blessing and uplift – again and again and again.’

Cliff Kent Major Beckenham Salvationist 14 December 2019

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE DEDICATED TO GOD O Agatha Sarah, daughter of SL Christopher and Youth Team Leader Sarah Ward, at Canterbury by Major Mandy Sands O Deacon Nicholas, son of Chris and Katy King, at Edinburgh Gorgie by Major Mark Gilden O Alfred Henry, son of Andrew and Becky Rossiter, at Oldbury by Majors Amaro and Susan Pereira O William, son of Nathan and Adele Avery, at Oldbury by Lieut-Colonels Lynn and Mike Highton RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major David Diaper (80 on 23 December) BEREAVED O Songster Chris Carley, Droitwich Spa, of her husband CT Richard Carley, Steve Carley and Ruth Deller, both Droitwich Spa, of their father O BM Alan Kershaw, Rochdale, of his wife Gillian, Stephanie Kershaw and James Kershaw, Rochdale, of their mother O Major Cliff Allchin, Leeds Central, Beverley Blythe, Christopher Allchin, Michael Allchin, Gravesend, Raymond Allchin and Avril Waterman of their father Leslie O CS John Swansbury, Croydon Citadel, Commissioner Charles Swansbury, Major Catherine Rand, Guildford, and Olivia Swansbury, Ashburton, New Zealand, of their father Colonel Gordon Swansbury, Eva Willis, Poole, and Muriel Hatfield, Belleville, Canada, of their brother O Aux-Captain Reginald Bailey of his wife Aux-Captain Catherine Bailey O Major Barbara Fawcett of her husband Major Ian Fawcett O Theresa McKenzie, Perth, of her husband Alex O Rayleigh and Sheila Mannouch, Poole, of their son Richard

PROMOTED TO GLORY O Colonel Gordon Swansbury from Royal Bournemouth Hospital on 27 November O Aux-Captain Catherine Bailey from New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, on 28 November O Major Ian Fawcett from University Hospital of North Durham on 1 December O Nan Mitchell, Perth O Eifion Williams, Clowne OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory LONG SERVICE 25 years O Major David Betteridge, Mission Service, THQ RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 December O Lieut-Colonel Alan Burns out of Harlow in 1976 and last appointment Secretary for Mission, THQ O Major David Ludditt out of Chesterfield in 1987 and last appointment Rothwell ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES COLONEL GORDON SWANSBURY THE eldest of eight children born to Salvation Army officers, Gordon left school at the age of 14. He remained at Leek in lodgings when his parents moved from that appointment, working at a silk mill in the town.

Experiences while serving in North Africa, Palestine and Italy during the Second World War led him to dedicate his life to God, and he – along with fellow candidate Joyce Emberton – entered the training college as a member of the King’s Messengers Session. They were married in 1950, and during their early appointments

ENGAGEMENTS THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O The Royal Courts of Justice (carol service), Wed 18 Dec O Clydebank (retirement of Commissioners Ivor and Carol Telfer), Sat 11 Jan

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Salvationist 14 December 2019

in the former Notts and Derby Division, their sons, John and Charles, were born.

A call to international service in 1957 was preceded by teacher and specialist training to equip Gordon for a fulfilling 11 years as principal of the High School for the Blind in Thika, Kenya. Under his leadership the school underwent a period of expansion and development, which was later recognised when he was appointed MBE for services to education. During these years at Thika, their daughters, Catherine and Olivia, were born.

A year spent on the staff of the International Training College in 1969 was followed by further international service, as Chief Secretary in East Africa and then South Africa, and officer commanding of the Zambia Command. Immediately prior to retirement, Gordon served as the staff secretary at International Headquarters.

The Swansburys returned to the East Africa Territory for a further year of service, with Gordon appointed as the General’s special representative during a period of transition.

In retirement Gordon continued his ministry teaching at William Booth College.

Upon the promotion to Glory of his wife in 2015, Gordon transferred to Winton, where he supported the corps programme until his final brief illness in his 98th year.

Servant of God, Salvation Army officer, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, well done! – C. S.

CECIL ROGER BARNETT, SLEAFORD ROGER, as he was known, was born in Sleaford in 1940 and spent his whole life in the area, mainly involved in horticulture. He worked for many years for a national seed firm, where he met and married Margaret, before setting up his own gardening business.

While attending a Pentecostal church Roger experienced a real sense of conversion, to which he continually testified. Moving to The Salvation Army, where his son, Carl, was a junior soldier, he was enrolled as a soldier and became a songster and colour sergeant. However, Roger was primarily known for a quarter of a century’s work as a War Cry herald, selling papers in pubs and the town centre.

Despite steadily declining health he maintained a smiling witness and continued to take every opportunity to testify to God’s work in his life. – N. M.

NEW COMMITMENTS

SHERINGHAM: Corps officer Major Janet Bishop welcomed nine adherent members: Community Manager Carol McKean, David Wright, Liam McKean, Rick Bates, Julian Gardiner, Andre and Julie Golec, Jean Lowe and Yvonne Prince. Pictured with them is Recruiting Sergeant Kay Hazelwood. – A. B.

CHIPPENHAM: Nikki, Rebecca and Sophie Wilson-Ash and Noah Irons were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Dawn McGarvey during YP Sunday. Pictured with the junior soldiers is Andy Hurd (DHQ), who conducted the meeting and the YP prizegiving.

Holding the flag is Noah’s father. – D. M. KIRKWALL: Stephanie MacInnes was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Lieutenant John Mitchinson during the 134th corps anniversary celebrations. She testified to the prayer support she’s received and how she feels at home. They are pictured with Andrew Stanger and Lieutenant Rebecca Mitchinson. – S. S.

DUNDEE: Aaron Gauton was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Carole Tucker. He was delighted to be wearing his new Army polo shirt for the occasion. – G. B.

Some photos removed

WELLING: Maria Beaf was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Lieutenant Katy Shubotham. Despite working full-time, Maria finds time to help with events, such as Messy Church, and is a member of the singing group and band. Maria prayed with CSM Sandra Bale (pictured) at the mercy seat, while the congregation sang ‘Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace’ (SASB 608). Maria testified to taking her journey one day at a time. – K. S.

SNETTISHAM: CSM Alison Kirby enrolled Bethany Ward as a junior soldier and Marianne Fowkes as a soldier. Holding the flag is John Asbridge. – M. J.

BATH TEMPLE: Denise and Terry Parker joined with friends to celebrate their dedication to God through their commitment to soldiership. Some years ago a friend invited them to attend the Army. They became adherent members and helped in many corps activities, including the youth club and parent-and-toddler group. They began their soldiership courses this year, and were enrolled by Major Richard Knott. Denise privately signed her promise and Terry, despite being uncertain at first, testified that once he made the decision to become a soldier, he felt tremendous peace and joy. – R. K. Salvationist 14 December 2019

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ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 14 December 2019

22-23

‘ Employees, friends, members, officers, volunteers – we have them all in The Salvation Army!

We’ve asked some of them to tell us about themselves. This week…

RODNEY KINGSTON Graphic Designer, THQ How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I grew up attending Staines with my family. I’ve worked for the Army for more than 13 years as a graphic designer, previously on Kids Alive! and currently on the War Cry. What made you want to work for the Army?

It was the role that attracted me, and I’ve enjoyed designing weekly publications. One thing that has kept me here are the people I work with. The Christian environment has been a great influence on me.

The Christian environment has been a great influence on me

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What is the most interesting thing about your role, and the most frustrating?

Working closely with colleagues in a creative way. It’s never slow and there’s always a deadline looming. It is frustrating when technology fails. We’re so reliant on computers that when something goes wrong the job becomes impossible.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

I love city breaks. Earlier this year I went to New York with my family and spent a fantastic few days exploring. I’m also fortunate to live a short train journey from central London and I try to make the most of it.

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

Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: Episode VI – Return Of The Jedi.

What do you do in your spare time?

My biggest passion is painting in oils, so any spare time is spent at an easel. I’m inspired to paint interesting things around me, which are often portraits and urban landscapes.

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

John Singer Sargent, who painted stunning portraits. It would be great to spend time with him and get some tips.

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

Tickets to Tottenham Hotspur home games.

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

I would have to say the 10,000 metres.

The fact that Mo Farah is an Arsenal fan is disappointing, but he is an inspiring runner.

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

Spurs midfielder Moussa Sissoko. I would have chosen to be handcuffed to him during the 2019 Champions League final. Then I might have stopped him sticking his arm in the air in the penalty box 24 seconds in.

What is your favourite food?

My mum’s Sunday roast.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

I’ve never had a favourite, but Matthew 16:15 often comes to mind: ‘“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”’ I heard it preached on about a year ago and it has stuck with me. I’m glad to say that whenever I consider the question I always have the same answer.

Is there something you’ve never understood?

Why do babies start to cry as soon as you sit down?

Do you have any hidden talents?

I can juggle.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

A sketchbook and enough pencils to fill it.

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

Coldplay’s ‘Viva La Vida’. My wife, Hannah, and I have been married for ten years.

After the ceremony we left the church to that song so it has great memories.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

Time.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I was born in New Zealand. I usually remind people about that when the Rugby World Cup comes around and I dig out an old All Blacks top.