Salvationist 14 jul 2012

SALVATIONIST ESSENTIAL READING FOR EVERYONE LINKED TO THE SALVATION ARMY

INSIDE THIS WEEK

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 14 July 2012 No 1355 Price 60p

USA Western PAGE 4

The Gathering brings together the General and thousands of Salvationists

Band emphasises the spiritual Gainsborough PAGE 5

PLUS LOTS MORE!

PAPERS War Cry y THE

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Est 1879

Holiday idea goes far

No 7073

FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS

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14 JJuly l 2012 20p/25c

BORN TO A CLASSIC athletics film is getting a rerun. Chariots of Fire, the 1981 portrayal of Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams’s efforts to win gold at the 1924 Olympics, has been digitally remastered and was released in cinemas yesterday (Friday 13 July) ahead of the 2012 Games.

RUN

CINEMAS ARE ALL FIRED UP ABOUT ERIC LIDDELL

Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross) starts out as a Cambridge student with an impressive turn of pace.

He wants to put that pace to good

writes PHILIP HALCROW

Turn to page 3

Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson) aims high

Twentieth Century Fox

Q ERIC LIDDELL’S STORY COMES ROUND AGAIN IN ‘CHARIOTS OF FIRE’

Q THE COOLEST ISSUE THIS YEAR WITH ‘ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTAL DRIFT’

Q THEATRE PRODUCER TALKS ABOUT STAGING NARNIA PLAY

Q GOD’S CHAMPIONS: SHADRACH, MESHACH AND ABEDNEGO

Q PROMS AUDIENCES ENJOY RESTORED MUSIC

Q ‘ICE AGE 4’ GOODIES TO WIN

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS DAVID ATTENBOROUGH: ‘THERE MAY BE A GOD’

MAN HAS 42 CATHEDRALS LICKED

Speaking on Desert Island Discs, David Attenborough said that there may be a God and that this would not be ‘inconsistent’ with the theory of evolution. The 85-year-old broadcaster and naturalist told Kirsty Young: ‘I don’t think that an understanding and an acceptance of the four-billion-year-long history of life is in any way inconsistent with a belief of a supreme being. I am not so confident as to say that I am an atheist.

I would prefer to say I am an agnostic.’

Worcester was ‘exceedingly gritty and salty’ and Durham was ‘disappointingly bland’, but none came close to the horror of the ‘foul, sickly sweet’ Wakefield.

When Lawrence Edmonds agreed to a bet to lick every Anglican cathedral in the UK, he had little idea of what taste to expect… he has become quite the connoisseur.

‘Not only is Lichfield Cathedral quite tasty: it is also an incredibly attractive building,’ he writes on his blog.

Bible Society’s Word In Action

Which books inspire you and why?

The novels of Thomas Hardy and the books and other writings of C. S. Lewis. I hugely enjoy the sheer creativity of Hardy’s plots...

C. S. Lewis is a very different sort of writer. His secular explanations of the tenets of Christianity are quite simply unsurpassed.

Last week I received three plastic envelopes, each containing plastic bags with requests for my old clothes. But despite the claims, these are not for a charity. The small print states that the clothes are for a company that sells them, and graciously gives the charity £85 per ton…

My advice is to put old clean clothes in Salvation Army bins. They served us well in wartime, and will use the clothes well.

High Court judge Sir Paul Coleridge, interviewed in The Times

Bernard Crisp, in a letter to The Daily Telegraph

OUT OF COURT

Church Times

CLOTHES FOR CHARITY

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS Tel: 0845 634 0101 SALVATIONIST 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN Tel: 020 7367 4890 Fax: 020 7367 4691 Email: salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Web: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by benhamgoodheadprint Limited, Bicester, Oxon. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

EDITOR Major Stephen Poxon Tel: 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson Tel: 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley Tel: 020 7367 4892 ASSISTANT EDITOR Claire Anderson Tel: 020 7367 4894 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker Tel: 020 7367 4893 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter Tel: 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza Tel: 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael Tel: 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino Tel: 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING Tel: 020 7367 4883 Email: advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH Tel: 01933 445451 Fax: 01933 445415 Email: keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

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14 July 2012 SALVATIONIST

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COMMENT

God the just

I ‘The holiness of God signifies an intolerance of sin, but not a rejection of the sinner.’

(General Clarence Wiseman, taken from The Desert Road To Glory)

NEWS Pages 4 – 10

USAWesternRomaniaPooleGainsborough CastlefordReadingCentralNorth-Western CentralNorthBrightonCongressHallRothwell LiverpoolMirfieldIHQAberystwythGreenock CentralSouthSwanwickFarnworthCirencester LlanelliMorristonLondonderryPentre SunderlandMillfield

’M afraid I’m not much of a one for being prayed for in public. Disclosing my soul to relative strangers doesn’t come naturally.

I have a wife for that, and parents and parents-in-law. Please, though, don’t let me discourage you. If that’s your thing, you go right ahead and pray with as many people in public as you like, just not me.

I don’t comfortably share my innermost thoughts with anyone much except my nearest and dearest. (It’s not you, it’s me.)

Years ago, I abandoned my foray into prayer partnerships because of my – non-Army – prayer partner’s tendency to pronounce ‘Lord God’ as ‘laaw gaaw’ in a cowboy-style drawl that – weirdly – he never used otherwise. Not being a cowboy, I became so irritated by the habit that I considered atheism just to get out of the situation!

I notice things like that when perhaps I should set my mind on things above.

I pick up, for example, on the astonishing number of times the word ‘just’ is used in prayers nowadays. I’m wondering if I’ve missed an edict rendering prayers invalid unless they include a ‘just’ every five seconds.

Likewise, the seemingly insurmountable inability of Christians to confidently sing the final line of the final chorus of ‘All I Once Held Dear’. Listen carefully the next time it’s used – half the congregation won’t know what to do, half will keep calm and carry on and the pianist will feel like packing up.

This might all simply be evidence that I am turning into a grumpy old man, but it does at least lead me to draw your attention to Major David Cavanagh’s Bible study on page 15.

The major obviously spends more time studying the Bible than he does congregational quirks. As well as expertly pulling words apart, Major Cavanagh brings reassurance to anyone who despairs of ever being anything like perfect.

A colleague showed me the following, from Jacob Abbott’s King Alfred The Great Of England. I offer it not as theology, but simply because I like it: ‘The noblest human spirits are always, in some periods of their existence, or in some aspects of their characters, strangely weakened by infirmities and frailties, and deformed by sin. This is human nature.

We like to imagine that we find exceptions and to see specimens of moral perfection in our friends or in the historical characters whose general course of action we admire; but there are no exceptions. To err and to sin, at some times and in some ways, is the common, universal and inevitable lot of humanity.’

Thank God, then, for 1 John 1:9 (NIV): ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.’

MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR

FEATURE

BIBLE STUDY

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Big collection – big money – big idea

Christian (im)perfection

Army people, engagements, tributes and picture caption competition

Page 11

Souvenirs of Salvationism

VIEWPOINT Commute or community?

Page 14

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LETTERS

FEATURE Pages 12 & 13

Page 15

Pages 16 & 17

Pages 20 & 21

ADVERTS

NEW COMMITMENTS Pages 18 & 19

Pages 22 & 23

SALVATIONIST 14 July 2012

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NEWS The Gathering brings together the General and thousands of Salvationists USA Western TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs named the Congress The Gathering – more than 5,400 officers, soldiers and friends gathered together from across the territory at the Pasadena Convention Centre, California, under the leadership of General Linda Bond. Four days of fellowship, learning, inspiration and consecration concluded with Sunday meetings in which 41 cadets of the Friends of Christ Session were commissioned and received appointments.

On Sunday morning the General ordained the cadets as ministers of Christ and commissioned them as Salvation Army lieutenants. In the afternoon she charged them to go forth, taking Christ into the world.

The Gathering’s three evening meetings from Thursday to Saturday each focused on an aspect of the international vision – One Army, One Mission, One Message.

At the Thursday evening meeting, One Army – A Great Gathering!, the General told her audience: ‘You belong to a great Salvation Army, not because you made it so, but it is great because it belongs to God.’ The next day’s evening meeting took the theme One Mission – I Believe. It included the enrolment and welcome of 350 junior and senior soldiers and adherent members. Also featured in the evening were the Arc (Adult Rehabilitation Centre) Chorus, Seattle Temple Band, prayer for the summer service corps missionary teams and an announcement of the territory’s World Service contribution of $6,905,762.

In a surprise announcement, the General admitted Warren Johnson (Tustin Ranch) to the Order of the Founder (see picture). Warren’s citation referred to his ‘exemplary service above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating commitment to evangelism and spiritual formation at corps, territory and worldwide levels’.

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In her Bible message, the General said that mission requires both action and vision.

‘We need to see the world as God does,’ she said, explaining that sometimes the world appears so dark that people wonder what they can do. ‘We need to see that God can use the candle, the match, the light in our life to do something amazing and bring light to darkest places,’ she said.

The evening meeting on Saturday focused on One Message – Fire In The Blood. It featured the Territorial Youth Band, massed Korean singing

companies from Torrance and Tucson and Pasadena Tabernacle Youth Chorus. Commissioner James Knaggs and New Frontier Publications Editor-inChief Bob Docter presented Trailblazer awards – given annually for innovative and exceptional service – to Major Linda Manhardt, Ted McClure, George Walker and Lorrie Davis.

In her Bible message the General told the audience: ‘You can be wrapped in a Salvation Army flag from birth, but if you’re not in relationship with Jesus you can’t be saved. I pray

tonight that this would be a salvation meeting and you would come to Jesus.’

The meeting climaxed with an outpouring of God’s Spirit and a massive response to the General’s appeal. Army flags waved to the brass band’s music and colourful streamers filled the air.

On Saturday, General Bond attended the new musical Spirit!

II: Empire – a sequel to the 1974 musical Spirit!

Congress events were broadcast worldwide on the internet by the territory’s new online TV station (savn.tv). – B. D.

Chaplains and eagles

Anniversary celebration Poole THE 134th corps anniversary began on Saturday afternoon with the visit of Portsmouth Citadel Band and open-air witness.

The evening programme was arranged in four sections – Worship The King, Sacrifice, Praise In Song And Dance and Guards And Guides – and included various items by the band. Guest leaders for the weekend Lieut-Colonels Peter and Sylvia Dalziel contributed vocal items and the band concluded the evening by playing ‘Fighting For The Lord’. – G. G.

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Romania PRISON chaplains from 20 Euro pean countries met in conference at an Eastern Orthodox monastery in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The theme for the conference was Strengthening The Soul. Author Father Richard Rohr provided spiritual teaching and reflection for the 120 chaplains; other speakers contributed with lectures on prison work in the various countries represented.

During a walk up in the mountains, delegates saw a pair of eagles surfing the air currents, a reminder of the conference theme and Isaiah 40:31.

The chaplains pictured are Major Samuel Winkler (Switzer land, Austria and Hungary), Major Roger Blomberg (Sweden and Latvia), Ruth Rauscher (France and Belgium), Majors Gill and David Tribble (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland). – D. T.

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NEWS Band emphasises the spiritual Gainsborough THE visit of Birmingham Citadel Band began with a concert at the historic Old Hall bandstand as part of the town’s Riverside Festival. After this, the band moved on to the Guildhall for a civic reception hosted by the Chairman of West Lindsey District Council (Councillor Jessie Milne). The band then returned to the hall for a prayer meeting.

Throughout the weekend great emphasis was placed on the spiritual aspect of the visit.

The hall was packed for the evening festival, which featured ‘Vitae Aeternum’, ‘Soli Deo Gloria’ and ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’. Featured soloists were Neil Blessett (tenor horn) playing ‘Demelza’, Mark Sharman (trombone), ‘Somebody Prayed For Me’, David Taylor (euphonium), ‘Harlequin’, and Edward Dixon (tuba), ‘The Bare Necessities’.

The band enhanced the Sunday morning meeting by playing ‘The Crimson Tide’ accompanied by powerful multimedia images.

Afterwards the band marched to an open-air meeting in Marshall’s Yard which attracted great numbers of people.

During the final meeting the band played Paul LovattCooper’s ‘Fire In The Blood’ and David Taylor and Keith Watts played the scintillating euphonium duet ‘Timepiece’.

Bandmaster Andrew Blyth of the host corps led the visiting musicians in the march ‘Rosehill’. – P. H.

Castleford Band plays at Monk Fryston as the Olympic Torch Relay passes through the village; corps members distributed copies of ‘The War Cry’ and chatted to people in the crowd

Songsters support fellowship band Reading Central THE London Central Fellowship Band presented a high

Musicians present thoughtprovoking evening concert Brighton Congress Hall A VARIED programme from the South London Fellowship Band was warmly received at its Saturday evening concert. The band opened with the march ‘Southern Australia’ and presented a variety of items including ‘Happiness And Harmony’, ‘The

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quality and varied repertoire to an appreciative audience.

The band also provided the

Lost Chord’ and ‘Laudate Dominum’. Contrasting items included ‘A Glenn Miller Collection’ and ‘Thornbury’.

The band sang two items, ‘Sound The Battle Cry’ and the thought-provoking ‘By The Way Of The Cross’. Alan Moyse (cornet) and Les Swift (vocal) provided solo items and Adrian Horwood (euphonium) played ‘Song Of The Brother’ on his first engagement with the band.

– M. H.

accompaniment to an upbeat arrangement of Debbie Crane’s vocal solo ‘Now I Belong To Jesus’. While much of the music was of a light nature, new to a Salvation Army audience, the inclusion of ‘Army Of The Brave’ and ‘Canadian Folk Song Suite’ provided more familiar fare.

Reading Central Songsters supported, presenting ‘From The River Flows The Ocean’ featuring soloists Sarah Denyer and Kate Turner.

The band’s executive officer, Major Graham Mizon (London Central DHQ), led a devotional period bringing a message based on the parable of the prodigal son, following which the band played a moving arrangement of ‘Softly And Tenderly Jesus Is Calling’.

– P. B.

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NEWS Army supports emergency personnel and evacuees Central North THE Army’s emergency services were on duty following an explosion that devastated several houses in the Shaw area of Oldham.

The response team, led by Divisional Emergency Response Co-ordinator Major Nigel Tansley, were alerted by the Fire Service in Manchester to provide welfare support to victims, which included people evacuated from their homes.

The scene of the explosion is

close to Shaw Corps, which was on standby to be used as an emergency shelter.

‘We had nine team members helping out, offering welfare support, a listening ear and a cup

of tea to residents, fire crews and police officers,’ Major Tansley reported. – A. R.

Corps opens AFM members testify to growing two new projects relationship Rothwell with God MORE than 60 representatives North-Western THE adult and family cele bration – held at the Southport Theatre and Convention Centre – was themed Miracle Of Change. Guest Major Carole Harries (West Scotland DHQ) encouraged everyone to see how their relationship with God has changed them and Major Elwyn Harries used sleight of hand to entertain and inspire the group.

Members testified to how their relationship with God is growing and encourages them to take on new responsibilities.

Liverpool Walton Hope group brought a musical drama item entitled A New Hallelujah which illustrated how the original ‘Hallelujah lasses’ have been replaced by the ‘hope girls’ of today. Vocal soloist Gillian McCredie (Wrexham) blessed people with ‘Break Our Hearts’ and led the audience in a patriotic singalong and St Mary’s Catholic College Swing Band provided foot-tapping music, which was well received.

The division raised £12,896 for the helping-hand scheme. The money will support the Salvation Army International Development (UK) project Growing Hope, the Cameo ministry in HMP Wymott and the Re-cycle project at Mchinji in Malawi. – S. M.

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from the council, community groups and divisional headquarters, as well as soldiers and friends, witnessed the opening of two new corps projects – The Well drop-in centre and The Bridge charity shop – which began through a donation from a local trust fund. Lieut-Colonel Wendy Caffull (DHQ) presented certificates of acknowledgement to volunteers.

Pictured (from left) are corps officers Majors Pauline and Richard Cook, Councillor Alan

Mills, trust representatives Robert Eden and John Pridmore and divisional leaders LieutColonels Wendy and Mike Caffull. – J. C.

Wendy Cox (Care and Repair England), Community Chaplain Lynette Skutt (DHQ) and Norris Green Day Service’s Peter Ellis and Rhonda Williams stand by an encouragement table prepared by Lynette as part of the City of Liverpool’s Social Services event at Norris Green Day Centre for Older People marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

14 July 2012 SALVATIONIST

Cliff Richard tribute artist Will Chandler, who sang and gave his testimony, contributes to an evening of fun and nostalgia at Mirfield

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NEWS Youth chorus serenades diners IHQ THE public café at IHQ resounded with music during an impromptu performance by the Pasadena Tabernacle Youth Chorus (USA Western). Diners from IHQ and members of the public enjoying a quiet lunch were caught by surprise when the young people – many of them scattered around the café – burst into song, singing an a cappella version of ‘Be Thou My Vision’. Among those enjoying the music was General Linda Bond, who was also treated to what she described as the ‘best ever’ version of ‘Happy Birthday To You’ – one day before her birthday.

Members of the 60-strong chorus, ranging in age from 13 to 30, were given tours of IHQ, helping them in their understanding of The Salvation Army’s international mission.

The youth chorus was in London ahead of a mini-tour to Nottingham, Boscombe, Staines and Upper Norwood.

Before touching down in the UK the young people had visited Finland and Estonia, leading worship and presenting concerts in various locations.

They have been accompanied on their tour by their territorial leaders, Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs.

Visit sar.my/ihqptyc to hear the youth chorus singing in Café 101 at IHQ. – K. S.

Pasadena Tabernacle Youth Chorus at IHQ

Corps provides help and advice during floods Aberystwyth THE corps gave assistance to people affected by the flooding in Wales.

For seven hours they helped to redirect traffic at a busy roundabout at Llanbadarn Fawr that was partially closed by flooding. Following the floods, corps officer Major Ray Hobbins and Christian outreach worker the Rev Roger Thomas visited flood victims in Capel Bangor, Llanbadarn Fawr, Dol-y-Bont and Talybont, offer-

Corps thanks God for the past while moving forward Greenock AS part of a yearlong celebration to mark the 130th corps anniversary, Major Carol Bailey (London North-East DHQ) led the anniversary weekend celebrations. Major Bailey entered the training college from Greenock in 1977.

The major themed the weekend Moving Forward and spent time thanking God for the past while urging trust for the future.

Charles Forbes and Major Ann Thomson gave personal words of testimony, speaking of how God had been faithful to them.

In the morning meeting corps officer Captain Alistair Mann presented Jim McKechnie with a certificate of appreciation; Jim has sold the Army papers in Dunoon for 50 years and continues to do so.

In the afternoon meeting Bandsman Ken Kilgour sang ‘The Door Sergeant’.

After the morning meeting, No 1 on the roll Arthur Collins cut the anniversary cake (see picture).

As the corps looked forward, time was spent looking at the continued integrated mission between the corps and the Greenock Floating Support Service, the Army’s social work in the area that cares for people living with addictions. – A. M.

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ing help and advice. Most people in these areas are Welshlanguage speakers and appreciated that the Salvation Army representation could speak Welsh and deal with their problems in their first language.

– R. H.

Music-making weekend is a hit Central South THIRTY-SIX young people from all around the division came together for a fun weekend of music-making at Sunbury Court.

They formed a brass band, led

by Andrew Scott (Boston), and a choir, with Margaret Launn (Bedford Congress Hall), as they worked together to put on a Sunday afternoon celebration for friends, family and guests.

This was a huge success as people were touched by the presence of God throughout.

The young people cited highlights as experiencing different forms of interactive prayer, discussing their faith in small groups and playing on inflatable games. – N. L.

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NEWS FEATURE Evangelism groups unite in mission Swanwick TWO hundred and fifty delegates gathered at The Hayes Conference Centre for United In Mission which incorporated the Adult and Family Ministries (AFM) Women Of Worth (Wow) conference and the Act Out drama group.

United In Mission drew together all units of THQ’s Evangelism Department including Mission Development, 24-7 Prayer, ALOVE, Children’s Ministries and Music Ministries.

Each of these expressions provided specialist resources to invited delegates within their groups and the AFM and drama groups, as in previous years, attracted personal applicants.

At certain times everyone gathered together for worship and between sessions delegates met others involved in different areas of ministry.

Territorial Evangelism Secretary Major Drew McCombe, who co-ordinated the event, led the first session and introduced territorial leaders Commissioners André and Silvia Cox, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries Colonel Sylvia Hinton and members of the evangelism team. Major McCombe set the focus for United In Mission and highlighted seminars planned by the different groups.

Wow: There was an air of excitement and anticipation as 120 women arrived for the conference and were greeted by AFM Officer Major John Smith and Associate AFM Officer Major Lorna Smith. Each delegate received a goodie bag and was photographed by Robin Bryant (Hadleigh Temple) – the pictures formed a display that was used later in the conference.

Major Lorna Smith introduced Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox who spoke about her family and her experiences of women’s ministries in different parts of the world.

Actress, author and teacher Abby Guinness introduced her book The Word Of The Wives, which focuses on the wives of Bible charac-

Major Lorna Smith leads Women Of Worth in worship

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Major Lorna Smith, assisted by Anne Croft (AFM), invites Wow delegates to collect their photo cards

ters, and presented inspiring and challenging monologues. The following morning Abby led the Bible study and asked delegates: ‘How do we live our everyday lives for all they’re worth?’ The study focused on Luke 12:7 and Luke 10:38–42. She challenged listeners to put God first; to turn from what is worthless to a life that makes a difference and to become like him, loving others for all they are worth.

Later in the morning there was a multimedia presentation on human trafficking followed by preparation for the afternoon workshops. Carl Finnan spoke about United Christian Broadcasters (UCB) and Major Abby Howe (London Central DHQ) introduced Wow – a new sixpart course available from AFM that focuses on developing the worth of women.

The afternoon workshops included walking, photography, crafts, information about UCB

and the Wow course. There was a great atmosphere as delegates of all ages and abilities shared together.

In the evening, everyone gathered to hear Bishop Graham Cray (Archbishops’ Missioner and Team Leader of Fresh Expressions) who asked: ‘United in mission, how is such a thing possible?’ He referred to Ephesians 4 and spoke about the glorious grace of God that is the basis of unity. Delegate Lieutenant Laura McLean (Liverpool Walton) said: ‘What really stood out for me is that God wants to bring healing and wholeness to all and we need to live in accordance with his plan.’ The bishop challenged people to be a united community serving the purpose of Jesus with diversity.

Major McCombe led Sunday morning worship in which Major John Smith testified and the drama group gave a presentation. The TC preached from Romans 12 and many people responded to the message by kneeling at the mercy seat. Delegates returned to their respective groups for the final part of the conference.

Wow worship included personal testimony

by Colonel Sylvia Hinton which encouraged several women to testify. Major Lorna Smith reminded delegates of their value to God and invited them to collect their photo cards, which were displayed at the front of the hall.

Act Out: Delegates met with Territorial Drama Co-ordinator Keith Turton to explore drama in a Christian context. Part of the time was spent studying and rehearsing a short, one-act play that gave participants an opportunity to explore the characters and learn about the mechanics of directing a play. Abby Guinness led two sessions, sharing some of her expertise as a solo performer, and encouraged

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delegates to explore new ways of telling Bible stories.

24-7 Prayer: Major Gill Miller, who attended the 24-7 prayer group, said: ‘I felt God’s love through his tangible presence all weekend. I experienced powerful teaching, useful and encouraging information-sharing and a renewed hunger for all that God wants to do through his people.’

Mission Development: Natural Church Development (NCD) training was a key element for the 40 delegates. Some already had experience of NCD coaching within their divisions, for others it was all new. Sharing with each other was of particular significance.

ALOVE: The ALOVE team, volunteer youth workers and two delegates from The Netherlands gathered for the Volt conference. This opportunity provided time to share good practice, receive relevant and inspiring teaching and take away practical ideas and resources that could be implemented in various settings. Guest speaker Matt Summerfield (Urban Saints Chief Executive) shared his passion to see young people living God’s great adventure for their lives. Three different seminars helped delegates to explore various issues and a live-issues panel allowed them to question the experts on various areas of youth work and ministry.

Children’s Ministries: Three divisional children’s officers and thirteen children’s workers employed by corps contributed

Abby Guinness chats to a conferencegoer about her book

to the group through their varied experiences.

The programme included a visit by Kids Alive! Editor Justin Reeves, Ultimate Church Visit resources, a session spent focusing on work with boys and hardto-reach families and reflection on when the workplace is also the place of worship.

Music Ministries: Songster Leader Ann HowlettFoster (Cambridge Citadel) said: ‘I met some wonderful, hardworking, committed and creative leaders who love God. I was challenged by the corps music leaders’ presentations of how music is being used in

new and exciting ways to reach people of all ages and cultures. I was glad to be part of the discussions led by Derick Kane (THQ) about corps needs and expectations of the Music Ministries Unit and was fascinated as Major John Martin (London Central DHQ) helped us understand the history and theology of music.

Sharing in the cross-walk prayer labyrinth with ALOVE helped us to see creative possibilities and brought us to our knees.’

At the conclusion of the weekend Major Drew McCombe reflected: ‘It was so good to have mission workers who work across all generations at one conference in one place. The shared learning and fellowship was a highlight for many. It is hoped that this integrated conference will be repeated in future years where we can learn from and with each other across the different mission fields.’ – A. R.

Wow delegates prepare for their walk ALOVE delegates spend time in reflection on the cross walk

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NEWS Praise theme Farnworth SALE SONGSTERS kept a theme of Praise throughout their programme in Trinity Methodist church, Bolton – hosted by Farnworth Corps – which included a vocal solo from Joanne James, a brass quintet and a humorous drama item.

Major Irene Draycott (Sale) gave a Bible reading and thought. – E. Y. Cirencester: The band provided accompaniment at the annual thanksgiving service for Cirencester Hospital, held in the Baptist church. The congregation joined in so heartily that ‘I’ll Go In The Strength Of The Lord’ concluded with applause. – M. G.

Llanelli young people celebrate their YP annual with an Olympic theme; Divisional Youth Officer Captain David Williamson led meetings and had the youngsters make Olympic torches to illustrate how they can be lights for Jesus

Young people show love for Jesus Schoolchildren showcase their talents with Morriston Singing Company and Timbrelists at a Swansea’s Got Talent concert at the corps organised

by Morriston soldier and teacher Ben Ford; the event raised £200 for the Annual Appeal

Pentre DURING the YP anniversary, the children (above) presented Marpel Is Stuck, which included a vocal solo by Millie Langton. During the afternoon meeting young people showed their love for Jesus through their talents, watched by corps members, family and friends. – S. W.

Youngsters torch neighbourhood

The children from Little Treasures Toddler group at Londonderry celebrate their ‘graduation day’ to mark the first year of the project

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14 July 2012 SALVATIONIST

Sunderland Millfield THE young people’s anniversary began with a tea party and Mini-Olympics Games Night. The children received certificates and medals for their achievements and the primary, who made foam Olympic torches, were joined by others for a run around the hall’s neighbouring street carrying ‘Olympic flames’ and Union Jacks.

The next day Captains Gary and Lorraine Chaundy (Eston) and young people from their corps led Sunday worship.

Afterwards, more than 75 young people shared lunch and a trip to the park. – S. W.

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FEATURE

Big collection – big money – big idea

L

OOKING for new ways to raise money for this year’s Annual Appeal – the Big Collection? Then The War Cry could be just what you need! Free copies of The War Cry 8 September issue are available and will include a four-page feature on the social ministry of The Salvation Army.

Place an order for free copies in multiples of ten, sell them and put the money raised towards the Big Collection.

The free issues will arrive with the

regular chargeable order through the usual delivery method.

To order your free copies of the Big Collection War Cry email THQ’s Publishing Department (publishing @salvationarmy.org.uk) stating name, corps, address and quantity required, or send the completed order form (right) to Publishing, The Salvation Army, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. The closing date for orders is Monday 13 August 2012. Q

War Cry Big Collection Order Form

By Monday 13 August 2012

Name

Address

Corps Quantity required

Also still available for use in outreach – particularly during the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games – are free special-edition copies of The War Cry and Kids Alive!

As stocks are limited, these will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Copies are available by emailing Keith Jennings at keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk or telephoning him on 01933 445 451

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SOUVE SALVAT FEATURE

Commissioner Wesley Harris has given a lifetime of se chest of memorabilia and discovers some u

BOOTH’S BOOKMARK William and Catherine Booth were years ahead of their time in many ways – not least in their ability to give the ‘one liners’ or soundbites so beloved of today’s politicians..

They were blessed with a superb ability to encapsulate the profound in just a few brief words – William Booth’s declaration, for example, that we should ‘go for souls and go for the worst’ has stood the test of time.

Among my souvenirs is an embroidered bookmark bearing just such a punchy statement from the Army Mother: ‘Any profession of Jesus Christ which brings no cross is all nonsense’; beneath her picture on the bookmark, and above one of her husband, are words attributed to him: ‘I don’t care how near to the bottomless pit I go in order to save mankind’.

These are stirring wordss of yesteryear that should challenge us today. Their relevance has not diminished.

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TR TREASURE IN HEAVEN I possess p a cheque made out to the Founder to the sum of £50 – a not inconsiderable sum in 1912. According to one report, William Booth sometimes used used us ed a small wooden frame to en enable nab able e him to write in a straight line e– nh e such as, for example, when he endorsed this cheque with his unmistakably bold signature. This writing frame became invaluable when his eyesight began w tto fade.

In a sense, that wooden fframe typifies the spirit of an old warrior who, despite a increasing in n frailty and impaired d vvision, vi isiio refused to cease fighting. g. g.

As As I hold the cheque in my hand dI am moved by his indomitable spirit and his determination to fight to the very end.

SONGS OF SALVATION Dr John Fulton, an eminent New York c clergyman, predicted tthat Salvationists would ssing their way around the world. From the beginning, the Army’s message was carried on wings of song.

When 16-year-old L Lieutenant Eliza Shirley

farewelled from Coventry Corps in 1879, to pioneer the work in the USA, Captain Elijah Cadman presented her with a number of copies of The Salvation Soldier’s Song Book – commonly known as ‘Penny Songbooks’.

Someone S So ong gbook boo bo okks’ s’. S So ome meo on ne has inscribed ha h as in as nssc cririib bed be ‘1882’ ‘1 18 88 82’ 2’ iin nm myy

copy off th book, which was hidden c co opy py o tthat h hat a llittle at itttltle b itt bo oo okk, w wh hic ich wa w as h hi idd dden e un u under nde er tth the he p pl platform lat atfo fo orm mo off th the he o ol old ld Cl C Clapton lap apto on Congress Hall for many years.

Also among my souvenirs are editions of the Musical Salvationist Song Book and The Salvation Soloist – the former containing an advertisement for an autoharp being sold at 17 shillings and 6 pence and which was, apparently, ‘very easy to learn’!

Vocal solos were a common feature of early Army meetings. Some of the songs are still in use today, but others have fallen by the wayside – such as one that included these illuminating lines: Smoking and spitting and dozing all day,

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

ENIRS of IONISM

rvice to The Salvation Army. He opens up his treasure useful pointers for modern-day Salvationists Nasty, bad habit – oh, throw it away!

Smash the pipe now; give your friends no more pain And never be such a big stupid again May I never be reluctant to sing ‘Always, ‘A Alw way ays, s, o only for my King’ (SASB 525).

A GENER GENERAL IN THE CABINET My c My china h cabinet plays host to a small bust of the Founder bearing b the tth h civic insignia of Edinburgh on the top of his cap. I can only o as a assume s that a Scot with an eye for business bu b u thought this feature would en enhance n sales!

Booth is also featured in a B Salvation Army cup with his face S Sa alv lv depicted in the bottom – down d de ep ep among am a mong the the dregs th drreg egs gs – right rriigh igh ght where wh w her ee th he A rmyy a spirred sp ed tto o be b e! the Army aspired be!

Apparently, A y, th the he ssu suggestion ugges ugg ggessttiion gg on w was as as that instead do off look lo looking oo ok kin ng ffo for or a ta ttall, alll, dark stranger ge g er in no one’s ne’ss ttea ne ea lleaves, ea ea eave avve ess,, one could se ssee ee the face of th the the General!

The small al al china vase once belonged to Richard Slater, these days ass the se d da ays ys rreferred efer ef errrre e ed to to a tth he fa ffather ther th er of Army music i – and d who, h incidentally, i id d t lll was promoted to the rank of lieut-colonel some ten years after retirement, having

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

responded to some kind of emergency at headquarters.

The vase was passed to m me e fr from om m Slater’s house in Westgate on Sea eo n Se ea when I was stationed at Margate.

Only a vase, maybe, but a tangible reminder of the man a an who gave The Salvation Army such timeless words as I have not much to give thee, Lord, For that great love which made e thee mine: I have not much to give thee, Lord, But all I have is thine.

LITTLE ONES TO H HIM BELONG In n 1880, 188 8 0, children in nB Blyth in northeast England E En ng gllan and had a problem prrobl – the crowds anxious get Salvation Army an nxi x ous ou us to og et into Sa meetings m me meet ee ettin ings gs w gs were erre so e s gre great that there was no room ro oo om m ffor o boys and girls! or Captain John Roberts, C aware of this complaint, arranged meetings for children on Friday evenings.

The Th T h he e rest is history.

Salvation Sa Sal al Army Sunday schools scho sc hool ool ols were markedly different d di fff t tto church h h ones, in that the children were encouraged to pray, read and testify.

The young people were also expected

to share testimonies in open-air meetings.

The upshot of all this was an abundance of children’s ne news being submitted ews w b eiing submi itt tted d to the beleaguered editor of The War Cr Cry. C y.

Fourteen-year-old ‘Happy Annie’, for example, wrote to say: ‘We are rising up at Sunderland’. A report from nearby Seaham Harbour told of children marching in ranks four deep, singing for the Lord.

The obvious solution was a paper written in large part by children, for children – hence the advent of The Little Soldier, forerunner of The Young Soldier and today’s excellent equivalent, Kids Alive!

As we grapple with the statistic that, nowadays, something like 95 per cent of children do not attend Sunday school (according to Tearfund’s Churchgoing In The UK 2007 report), perhaps the past can teach us that the best people to evangelise children may be children themselves. Q Q Commissioner Harris lives in retirement in Australia

SALVATIONIST 14 July 2012

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VIEWPOINT

Commute or community? asks Angela Wood

D

RIVING to work, I use the A449 on my 18-mile commute. This provides opportunity to prepare myself for the day and wind down again later. I work with challenging youngsters and – to be honest – I appreciate living at a distance from my workplace.

My local primary school – at which I am a governor – is a short walk from home. We had an open day. I was greeted by a child giving me a hug; this girl comes to our kids’ club at the corps. Throughout the day I met with children who knew me from corps activities. I felt part of their school community – not because I am a governor, but because I know them from the corps. They recognised me as a member of their church and a Christian.

As newlyweds, my husband and I, for work reasons, lived 19 miles away from my home corps. We uprooted ourselves every Sunday, lunching with corps folk. When we had our children it was like moving house for the day! We were, though, missing out on something. We lived in a close-knit community and missed being part of that in

order to worship at a distance. As our children grew we had to choose between moving house or moving church as there was no corps nearby. We moved house.

Over the years our congregation has ‘lost’ soldiers for many reasons, one of them being soldiers transferring elsewhere – sometimes because of domestic circumstances and sometimes to worship with a larger congregation. Some, for example, regularly make round trips of up to 30 miles as part of their corps membership. I understand this is a personal choice.

Despite these losses, we have new people coming to worship with us and a community work that just keeps growing. We lack workers and leaders, but we have a waiting list of young people wanting to learn to play instruments! We need people to support our children’s ministries.

The challenge is this: if we don’t live within the community surrounding our corps, how do we bring people to know

‘If people are to grow in faith, I contend it is within their own community that they do this best’

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Christ? How do we nurture people in an experience of God’s love if we live a long way away? How do we invite them to the corps if there is no room in the car and the hall is miles away?

General Linda Bond wrote in her May letter (see www.salvationarmy.org /thegeneral/sharingthevision): ‘The Lord continues to open my eyes to the amazing ministry carried out by Salvationists around the world. The vision of One Army, One Mission, One Message… captures the reality of an Army living out its faith in each community and country where it serves...

Easter weekend at Norwich Citadel… was not only a time for reflection and celebration… at the Army hall, but the corps also took its message to the streets with three open-air meetings. The open-air ministry there is very intentional, providing a weekly outdoor meeting. People from the community attend regularly and see this as their church.’

If people are to grow in faith, I contend it is within their own community that they do this best.

Jeremiah 29:5 and 6 says: ‘Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters’ (New International Version).

The essence of this verse is about community discovering faith through our presence and Church being accessible – the family of God growing together.

William Booth wrote: ‘A young Christian once came to me… she had been giving the Lord her profession and prayers and money, but now she wanted to give him her life. She wanted to go right into the fight... She wanted to go to his assistance in the sea. As when a man from the shore, seeing another struggling in the water, takes off those outer garments that would hinder his efforts and leaps to the rescue, so will you who still linger on the bank, thinking and singing and praying about the poor perishing souls, lay aside your shame, your pride, your cares about other people’s opinions, your love of ease and all the selfish loves that have kept you back for so long, and rush to the rescue of this multitude…?’

Will we still ‘linger’ in our cars, wasting time commuting to be with like-minded people? Or will we look to our own communities? Q Q Angela is corps secretary, Worcester

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

BIBLE STUDY

Christian (im)perfection The second of a three-part series by Major David Cavanagh

R

EADERS of Lewis Carroll’s Through The Looking-Glass And What Alice Found There may remember Humpty Dumpty’s claim that when he used a word, it meant exactly what he intended.

It is, of course, an absurd statement: language is a social phenomenon and confusion would soon ensue if individuals arbitrarily assigned idiosyncratic meanings to words.

We must not make Humpty Dumpty’s mistake in our attempts to define and explain holiness. Although the gospel promises that God’s grace can transform human beings and Christians are meant to be saints who live holy lives, it must be recognised that this does not mean we are paragons of virtue, free from all weakness and error.

As General Shaw Clifton states: ‘The holy life is not one of moral or sinless perfection,’ while the Army’s Handbook Of Doctrine explains: ‘To be a saint is not to be a finished product, but to be a work in progress.’ This might seem to contradict both the Army’s traditional stance and the teaching of the Bible. The Army’s Founders, following Wesley – who was himself heavily influenced by William Law’s A Practical Treatise Upon Christian Perfection

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(published in 1726) and

by Matthew 5:48 – spoke often of holiness as a state of ‘Christian perfection’ and strongly affirmed that it was possible for the sanctified Christian not to sin.

However, the Army’s Founders also drew short of declaring that it was impossible that a sanctified Christian should sin. Although they maintained the biblical term ‘perfection’, they were well aware that this was a potentially misleading translation of Matthew 5:48. To say something is ‘perfect’ in English implies that it is the finished article and cannot be improved. The Greek term ђўѤўѢѨѪ – sharing the same root as the term for ‘goal’ or ‘end’ – suggests that something is ‘fit for purpose’, and therefore allows room for further development and improvement.

This more accurately reflects the careful balance we find in the Bible. On the one hand, the New Testament is clear that Jesus’ death and resurrection have broken sin’s hold over mankind (John 8:36; Romans 8:2), so that we can honour and glorify God in our daily conduct (Romans 6:4; 12:1). Christians are radically renewed because they are united to Jesus and his life has been

transplanted into them by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17; John 3:3; Galatians 2:20).

On the other hand, the New Testament makes it clear that Christians still need to grow and develop in order to reach the fullness of character and personality that God has in store for them. While Christians are genuinely renewed in Christ and truly experience a new life through his Spirit, this is only a ‘deposit’ or ‘first instalment’ of the full salvation that awaits us (2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13 and 14).

Christians are indeed destined to be truly like Jesus, and are already being transformed into his likeness (2 Corinthians 3:17 and 18), but this reshaping of their character will be complete only when they truly see him as he is (1 John 3:2; Colossians 3:4). In the meantime, our true life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3), and we live ‘in the flesh’ – prone to weakness, fallibility and fragility.

Such imperfection should not be considered as failure. Indeed, I want to suggest that imperfection is part of what it means to be ‘fit for purpose’ as a saint.

The ethical theologian Samuel Wells usefully contrasts the saint from the hero.

The hero, Wells proposes, is central to our imagination and has the task of making sure the story ends happily: if the hero fails, all is lost. By contrast, the saint is ‘just a small character in a story that’s always fundamentally about God’ and ‘can fail in a way the hero can’t, because the failure of a saint reveals the forgiveness and the new possibilities made in God’.

Christians are clay pots who display God’s power and grace in their imperfection (2 Corinthians 4:7). They show off God’s grace to best advantage precisely because they are so clearly common, fallible and weak. No one can mistake the saint’s holiness for a human achievement; it is clearly the result of close and continued association with God. Like Paul, Christians are paradoxically most fit for purpose when they recognise and grapple with their own weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:9) because that is when God can showcase in them his love, mercy, forgiveness and creative power to renew. Q Q Major Cavanagh is General Secretary, Italy and Greece

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LETTERS

Q The Church is not a club I VERY much agree with Dave Tomlinson’s view on the Church (Salvationist 23 June) – we must change or die. I believe passionately that we in the Army must ask ourselves hard questions about our methods and practices.

From the very beginning of the Christian Church the gospel and culture have been in a constant conversation.

The gospel needs the culture to be able to find expression and culture needs the gospel to shed light on it and guide it.

I agree with Tomlinson that the Church has to rediscover its spirituality. For too long the Church has been guided by the mind, perhaps again as an influence of the Renaissance, where logic sat on the throne.

However, the mistake that the Church made in its encounter with the Renaissance, which caused it to lose sight of its spirituality, is the same mistake that Tomlinson seems to be advocating and calling the Church into. He seems to suggest that we must open wide the doors of the Church so that people, no matter where they are, can feel that they belong.

The Church is not a club. One can only belong and be a member of the Church after an encounter with the risen Saviour, who gives rebirth to the soul. Let’s not confuse the Church’s desperate need for missiological engagement with a lost world to actually opening wide the gates and inviting people to belong.

Jesus had something to say about this when he told the parable of the person who went to the wedding without a wedding garment.

The gospel must never change in order to accommodate culture. When this happens it ceases to be the good news to a lost world. Bringing our standards down and watering down the gospel is not what is needed in order to reach the Western world. It is a mistake to think that we need to redefine the gospel in order to express God’s love for the lost and to love the sinner with Christ’s love.

The apostle Paul did not go to my country of origin, Greece, sanctioning the culture and people’s beliefs and practices. He used the Hellenistic culture

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to give expression to the good news of Jesus Christ but one needs to read Romans 1 to see that Paul let the gospel challenge the Hellenistic culture in no uncertain terms.

I suppose when one talks of gospel and culture, one is soon driven to rediscover what in our faith is gospel and what is actually a cultural expression. The way we dress or what musical instruments we use in our worship could never be the gospel. They are always means and methods that help us express the gospel in a culturally relevant way. Those of us who are leaders in the Church have the responsibility of stripping the gospel of its cultural garments to allow people to glimpse its real beauty. The bottom line is that the gospel must not and can never change or it will cease to be the gospel.

However, the vehicles of expression of the gospel of Christ should constantly be adapted and changed in order for it to be intelligible.

Haris Giannaros, Major, Gillingham

Q Young musicians were great!

THANK you, Cardiff Canton, for inviting Croydon junior musicians to your corps. The singing was great and not one copy of printed music was in evidence the whole weekend.

The playing of the band was also excellent.

The soloists were of an exceptionally high standard and to single any one out would not give justice to all the rest, even down to the 2nd cornet players.

Members of our international staff sections should watch out – in a few years’ time their places will be under threat! It was worth a 250-mile journey from Morecambe to hear these young musicians.

Brian Camplin, Morecambe

Q Hong Kong photo I THOUGHT you might be interested in printing this photograph of my father – a Salvation Army bandsman – who, in 1929, was serving in the Band of the Welsh Regiment in Hong Kong.

The photo was taken at the Salvation Army Red Shield Club. The officers provided refreshments and friendship to off-duty soldiers. Probably all in this photo are long gone, but there may be relatives or friends who may recognise someone. My dad, Ernest Farr, is third from the right on the back row.

I am the eldest of six children – my mother was also a Salvationist – all brought up in Pontymister Corps, South Wales.

Sheila Moseley, Newport

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

LETTERS

Q Prayer focus

Q Congress was an inspiration

I WAS delighted to read in Salvationist the excellent review of Army On Its Knees by Lieut-Colonel Janet Munn and Major Stephen Court.

I have read this book and I think the best way I can describe it is by saying it is the kind of book one might be reluctant (or afraid) to pick up, because of its challenge to pray, but that it is also very difficult to put down again!

One of the greatest strengths of Army On Its Knees is that it covers a wide scope of prayer tradition, ranging from ancient schools of thought to modern tactics of prayer warfare. This means that the wisdom of the ages meets healthily with current thinking. Furthermore, the entire book is grounded in Scripture.

Colonel Munn and Major Court have presented a challenging case for prayer as the heartbeat of our Movement. My personal understanding of this is that if The Salvation Army is to be what it should be in 2012, then there will be a price to pay. That price is sacrificial prayer, the principles of which are outlined in this book’s pages.

I commend this publication to anyone interested in being part of an Army on its knees.

Heather Poxon, Major, St Albans

I COMMENCED my officership at Stratford Goodwill Centre and it certainly was a steep learning curve.

While in college, as a member of the Evangelists Session, I read William Booth’s ‘I’ll Fight’ speech and was deeply challenged by it. I was also introduced to principles of ‘whole ministry’ by my lifelong mentor Colonel Margaret White.

I have recently reread God In The Slums

by Hugh Redwood and have been inspired and challenged again. The Congress was a great inspiration and I pray that I can continue the fight. The needs are immense and I pray that I, and all Salvationists, will rise to the challenge so prayerfully put to us over the Congress weekend.

Jacqui Griffiths, Major, Bolton

Q BAOR memories 1

Q BAOR memories too

I WAS interested to read Gernod Kumm’s letter (Salvationist 23 June) and to be reminded of Brigadier Frank Ellingham’s excellent work with the Red Shield Services. I am the middle trombonist in the photograph (above).

I was playing bass trombone in the Royal Army Medical Corps Staff Band when it undertook a six-week concert tour of units in BAOR in September and October 1956. The tour included Berlin, Cologne and Hamburg, with our longest stay being at Hannover. Soon after our arrival I made myself known to Brigadier Ellingham who immediately co-opted me into his ‘local band’ and then insisted on giving me a guided tour of the city with the help of the red shield minibus!

I was in Hannover for around six days which included a weekend, and recall visiting Hameln on the Sunday and marching along the main street playing ‘Star Lake’ at least six times!

From Hannover we moved on to Berlin to take part in the military tattoo alongside the Grenadier Guards Band, and a photograph of around seven or eight Salvationists taking part was published in The Musician (now Salvationist).

Roy Horscroft, West Wickham

I WAS most interested in the letter from Gernod Kumm. The picture accompanying the letter, a copy of which is in my possession, brought back many happy memories.

For most of my National Service, from 1956 to 1958, I was with 26 Field Engineer Regiment of the Royal Engineers in Hameln, Germany. Most of my free time was spent at the red shield club in Minden where I enjoyed fun, fellowship and worship, participating in the band and male voice group.

I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to have shared so much time in great company, for the influence of Brigadier Ellingham on my life and for the wonderful Christmas celebrations provided for servicemen by the club.

I am fourth from the right in the middle row of Gernod’s picture with a euphonium and recognise Sandy Morrice (now Lieut-Colonel, retired), Mike Bugler of Weymouth and others.

John Hockley, Gravesend

Q Books sought AT William Booth College we regularly hold a second-hand bookstall to raise funds for the International Project.

Books are priced at £1 each and vary from very old Army/Christian writings through to the works of contemporary authors such as Lucado, Willard and Driscoll.

If you have any books that you no longer use, enjoy or need or that you think may be helpful to someone else, please consider donating these to WBC. All donations can be dropped off at reception. If you are further afield please contact me via email (claire.durrant@salvationarmy.org.uk).

If you are interested in popping in to the college for a coffee and a browse through the bookstall, please email me for dates.

Thank you.

Claire Durrant, Cadet, William Booth College

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Q Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk SALVATIONIST 14 July 2012

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NEW COMMITMENTS Sue Heap Ruth Pashley Soldiers

Denis Oliver Soldier SHIREMOOR DENIS attended the corps after his son started attending S-Club. He later became an adherent member. After careful consideration he decided to become a soldier and was enrolled by corps officer Captain Jason Snell. During his testimony, he read Psalm 46 which he had found helpful in his journey to soldiership. – J. S.

DarDar Htoo Sandar Htoo Adherent members SOUTHSEA CHRISTIANS DarDar and Sandar arrived in the UK from Burma in 2005 and settled in Portsmouth last year. They were looking for a church and friends invited them to the Army.

Corps officer Major Mary Wolfe welcomed DarDar and Sandar as adherent members. – T. M.

Brian Green Adherent member PARKGATE DIVISIONAL Envoy Barbara Sabin enrolled Sue and Ruth as soldiers and welcomed Brian as an adherent member.

Sue and Ruth were once soldiers of the corps. During serious illness, Sue knew that she was in God’s hands. Ruth said that the Lord knew her feelings, fears, sorrows and tears and that she wanted to be re-ordained by him. Brian went to the Methodist Church but when bereaved of his wife he started to attend the corps. – B. S.

Sue Hudson Adherent member

Joan Wattis Adherent member HEDNESFORD JOAN remembers going to the Army as a little girl, but it was not until ten years ago that the corps became her spiritual home.

She always thought she was too old to become an adherent member, but recently found out that was not the case. In a double celebration, corps officer Lieutenant Liz Tubby welcomed Joan as an adherent member two days after her 90th birthday. – J. T.

BICESTER SUE recently moved back into the area and has made her spiritual home at the corps. She decided to take a first step of commitment as she develops her faith. Corps officer Captain John Mclean welcomed Sue as an adherent member. – J. M.

Ben Mitchell Adherent member MABLETHORPE BEN has attended the corps for some time and was encouraged by the friendliness of the fellowship. As a keen percussionist he enjoys participating in worship. Corps Sergeant-Major Fred Simms welcomed Ben as an adherent member. – B. P.

Paul Marshall Marion Pitchacaren

Beryl Kearl Ruth Hickey Adherent members HYTHE PAUL faced testing times in his life. At his lowest point he saw corps officer Captain Phil Layton training for the London Marathon. On seeing the logo on the captain’s running vest he felt challenged to go back to the Army.

Ruth supported Marion at the funerals of her Salvationist parents.

Ruth and Marion decided to return to the corps that they attended as children.

Beryl works as a volunteer in a British Red Cross charity shop.

A member of the corps who also works in the shop invited Beryl to the Army.

Captain Layton welcomed Paul, Ruth, Marion and Beryl as adherent members. – P. L.

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Edna Cameron Mark Savage Adherent members LEIGHTON BUZZARD FORMER corps officer Major David Squibb (now St Albans) invited Mark to the meetings. Although he goes through times of anxiety and depression he recognises there is always help at hand from the Army and he values the kindness and support he receives from the corps folk. He testifies to answered prayer and gives all the glory to the Lord. He works very hard behind the scenes at the corps.

Edna got to know the Army through the over-60 club, where she made many friends. She attended Sunday worship and soon felt part of the family. It meant a lot to her personal faith to find a spiritual home and the Army is now a big part of her life.

After spending time in thought and prayer Edna and Mark felt the time was right to become adherent members and were welcomed by corps officer Captain Jackie Bainbridge. – J. B.

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NEW COMMITMENTS Eloise Peek Mo Smale Soldiers

Nancy Tomlinson Ruth Pashley

Barbara Murgatroyd Audrey Hairsine

Doreen Hague Jane Hague (not pictured) Graham Gudgeon Adherent members

NORWICH CITADEL ELOISE attended Dereham Corps until the age of 12, when she and her family transferred to Norwich. She testified to the positive influence in her life of young Christians and experiences at divisional and territorial music schools. She was also influenced by General Linda Bond’s Easter ministry at the corps, which confirmed her decision to become a soldier.

Mo attended her first Army meeting 17 years ago at the invitation of work colleague Songster Janet Munday. She soon became an adherent member and enjoyed the corps fellowship.

Mo is grateful for Janet and Recruiting Sergeant Sandra Payne’s support and helpful Scripture advice from corps officer Major Sally McBride. At her enrolment, Mo testified to a firm, ongoing commitment as a soldier in The Salvation Army.

Mo and Eloise were enrolled by Majors Ian and Sally McBride.

– B. C.

Luke Gudgeon Megan Gudgeon Daniel Wilmott Soldier

Ethan-Harry Hague Junior soldiers BRADFORD IDLE BROTHER and sister Luke and Megan were enrolled as junior soldiers.

Their mum, Julie, is already a soldier. Their grandfather, Brian Metcalfe, held the flag for their enrolment ceremony. The day was made even more special as their father, Graham, was welcomed as an adherent member. The Gudgeon family started attending the corps after they were invited to the 125th corps anniversary three years ago.

Also welcomed as adherent members were Ruth the corps cleaning manager, Barbara, who came through the Saturday coffee mornings, Audrey, who was invited by her friend Doreen Hague, and Nancy who helps run the Tuesday Care (Come And Relax Everybody) Club.

Nancy started attending the corps after she met Divisional Envoy Beryl Cowgill at a bus stop and shared with her how she had just moved into the area and knew very few people. The envoy invited her to the Army and Nancy said that meeting Beryl changed her life for the better. She loves the fellowship and is an active and valued member.

Ethan-Harry promised to love and serve God as he was enrolled as a junior soldier. The meeting was doubly blessed as his mother, Jane, and his grandmother, Doreen, were welcomed as adherent members.

Divisional Envoy Billy Cowgill enrolled the junior soldiers and welcomed the new adherent members. – B. C.

PAIGNTON FAMILY and friends witnessed Daniel signing the soldier’s covenant at the mercy seat when his aunt, Major Angela Irving (THQ), enrolled him. Daniel played his testimony on his trombone, using the piece ‘In His Time’. – D. B.

Hannah Letsholo Margaret Smith Adherent members ALDERNEY HANNAH grew up in the Lutheran tradition in South Africa. She went to Guernsey to work as a nurse in the hospital and a friend invited her to the Army. She testified to the Lord’s guidance in her life.

Margaret found her home with The Salvation Army after a very difficult spiritual time. She testified to the Lord’s calling and explained that although she disregarded his call at first, the Lord persisted and after much prayer she responded.

Margaret and Hannah were welcomed as adherent members by corps leader Territorial Envoy John Charlton. – J. C.

Chris Trattles Adherent member

Catherine Billington Junior soldier SCARBOROUGH CATHERINE and her brother were taken to the Army by their mother, who attended the corps outpost as a child. Corps officer Major Paul Robinson enrolled Catherine as a junior soldier. – J. M.

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ESTON CHRIS found himself in a very low place, struggling with depression and other health issues. He had fallen far from God and did not know how to get back to him. He started attending the Army a year ago and completed the Start course and rediscovered that trusting God as his Father is the only way life works. In his testimony he encouraged others to do the same. He was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Gary Chaundy. – G. C.

SALVATIONIST 14 July 2012

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTMENT Songster Angela Legg, Kettering, as President of Kettering Inner Wheel Club.

LOCAL OFFICER APPOINTED CSM Alan Bellshaw, Edinburgh Gorgie.

MARRIAGES Ian Atkinson to Sandra Beeston at Chester-leStreet by Major Janet Robson; Jonathan Hampton (Oakengates) to Deborah Allchin at Sale by Majors Elizabeth and Ivan Oliver; Nathan Loxley to Helen Billard at Bedford Congress Hall

by Majors Paul and Jenine Main; Robert Knight to Helen Hambleton at Sutton-in-Ashfield by Lieutenant Margaret Gargett; David Robertson to Hannah May at Bexleyheath by Captains Louise and Paul Wood.

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Blue sapphire: Major and Mrs Leslie and Joy Horwood (26 July); Bert and Mrs Grace Beeton, Cottenham (26 July).

Golden: Lieut-Colonels John and Enid West (28 July); Brian and Rtd CS Mrs Sonia Parkhouse, Reading Central (21 July); Jimmy and Bandswoman Mrs Joyce Whittaker, Gateshead.

DEDICATED TO GOD Jazmine Rose Olivia, daughter of Majors Stuart and Margaret Downham, at Edmonton by Colonel Derek Elvin; Richard Mark, son of Mark and Michelle Henson, at Grimsby by Major Margaret Bowers; Clodagh Ruby, daughter of BM Stuart and Claire Leathem at Bangor by Captain Gordon Tucker; Esther Joy, daughter of John Willows and

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sat 7 Jul - Sat 14; USA Eastern, Th 26 - Mon 30; ICO, Wed 8 Aug; Ghana, Th 9 - Mon 13 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sat 7 Jul - Sun 15; ICO, Tu 24 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sun 8 Jul - Sat 14; Sunbury Court (Territorial Music School), Sun 22 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: The Hexagon, Reading (Territorial Music School final festival), Sat 28 Jul; London South-East (installation of divisional leaders), Sun 29; Star College, Cheltenham (SAFE School of Music and Drama), Fri 3 Aug

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14 July 2012 SALVATIONIST

Polly Jackson-D’Zacchaeus, at Lincoln by Major Christine Standing; Jack Michael, son of Stephen and Grace Wynn, at Midsomer Norton by Major Sharon Robinson; Amber Leila, daughter of Carl and Angela Impey, at Cottenham by Territorial Envoys Alison and Russell Day; Esther Joy, daughter of CYS James and Hannah Stannett, at Shipley by Major Maureen Melton; Benjamin Michael, son of Michael and Alison Grills, at Bexleyheath by Major Barbara Mileham; Oliver Chase, son of Mark and Bethany Jarvis, at Tadley

by Captain Teresa Everett.

BEREAVED Rebecca Brill, of her father Alan, CT Eddie Brill of his brother, both Merthyr Tydfil; Songster Irene Barry, Gainsborough, of her husband Rtd SL Alan Barry.

RETIRED OFFICER Birthday congratulations: Major Pearl George, Reading (80 on 19 July).

PROMOTED TO GLORY Graham Homes, Boston; S/Reservist Edith Mitchell, Gateshead; Rtd CT Fred Cook, Clowne; Gilbert Aldous, Gravesend.

Aux-Captain Ivor Dartnall-Smith from Stafford on 3 July.

Aux-Captain Mavis Dartnall-Smith can be contacted in Stafford.

TRIBUTES MAJOR TRICIA YON TRICIA YON was promoted to Glory following a late diagnosis of cancer.

Her dynamic faith meant that she was not afraid of dying, just of leaving those she loved. Although only 56 years old, Tricia lived a very full life and accomplished much – personally and professionally – inside and outside the Church.

She felt the call to ministry as a teenager and entered the training college as an Overcomer (1974-1976). It was there she met Herbie, a college officer. They married in 1976, the start of 35 years of happy marriage and shared ministry.

The celebration service following her funeral was packed. Many people came from corps that the Yons had served in as officers, going back as far as the early 1980s. Others were members of the church where she worshipped, officers, friends and colleagues from secular employment. She was much loved and respected.

Tricia had a large sphere of influence. A natural evangelist, she successfully took her faith into the workplace. Following early retirement from officership she held several appointments, some within the Civil Service.

This entailed a lot of travelling, but – just as in ministry – she did it out of her love for

PLEASE note that pressure for space means tributes have to be edited. This has caused pain to some family members when tributes have appeared in shortened form. To avoid such distress it is requested that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. We will then make as few changes as possible. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

Commissioner William Cochrane: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul Sun 15

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UK Territory

Commissioners Alistair and Astrid Herring: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul - Sun 15; Mongolia, Wed 18 - Fri 20; Korea, Sat 21 - Mon 23

MARRIAGE Captain Susanna Hart, Canvey Island, to John Offor on 30 June.

Commissioners Kenneth and Jolene Hodder: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul - Sun 15; Zimbabwe, Mon 16 - Th 19 Commissioners Robert and Janet Street: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sat 7 Jul - Sun 15 International Staff Songsters: South America East, Fri 20 Jul - Th 26; USA Eastern, Fri 27 - Tu 31

RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 July: Major Angela Irving (neé Richards) out of Torquay in 1972 and last appointment Personnel Service, THQ. Major David Lewis out of Dunstable in 1969 with Major Marian Lewis (neé Linkins) out of Chartham in 1970 and last appointment South Shields.

Major Brian Lowndes with Major Janis Lowndes (neé Dixon) out of Ellesmere Port in 1994 and last appointment West Cornforth.

ANDRÉ COX, Commissioner, Territorial Commander

When submitting pictures to Salvationist they can be posted to the office as photographs to be scanned, or emailed to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk as digital images.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS people, particularly those grappling with redundancy. She worked until the day she was diagnosed, pushing herself to the limit – an extremely qualified professional with a heart of gold.

Tricia was not interested in this world’s wealth but was rich beyond measure in the things that really mattered, including fun and laughter. Through practical compassion and concern, as well as her forthright preaching, she undoubtedly stored up much treasure in Heaven.

Tricia was devoted to her family: her husband Herbie, Julian and Sally – with granddaughters Beth and Katie – Adelisa and Philip, her mother and six brothers and sisters. She will be missed for a very long time.

– H. Y.

BANDSMAN/ SONGSTER ROBERT STEWART, RUTHERGLEN BORN at Bellshill in 1931, Robert attended the Glasgow City Mission and Bellshill Corps while growing up. After marriage to Rita in 1953 they worshipped at Rutherglen where they brought up their three children, Colin, Fiona and Lyndsey. Robert was enrolled as a soldier in 1974.

Gifted with a beautiful singing voice, he was in great demand as a soloist at corps events, Burns Night suppers and women’s guilds.

As the corps ‘greeter’, he made sure that everyone received a handshake and word of

PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION

welcome. An enthusiastic and faithful bandsman and songster, he never stinted in his service for the Lord and was an encourager to many young people.

Robert bore his illness with dignity and is missed. – D. M. BERT COPPIN, WORTHING THE son of officers, Bert was born in 1923 at Brighouse and was taught to play a cornet by his father.

He often played in meetings with his brother. This instilled a love of banding.

Bert was proud to have played in Rosehill Band, the International Staff Band (for 17 years) and also in Kingston, Upper Norwood and Worthing Bands.

He worked for the Army’s Assurance Society before moving into marine insurance, becoming a superintendent.

Bert nursed his first wife through many years of illness. He later found happiness again with Kath, his wife for almost 40 years.

A perfect gentleman with a strong faith and a firm belief in the power of prayer, Bert is sadly missed by his wife, family and friends. – S. H. CLIFFORD SAVILLE, WOODHOUSE CLIFF was born in 1924 into a Salvationist family and brought up at Sheffield Park Corps. He became a soldier, a gifted cornet player, songster, young people’s band leader and company guard. In later years he served as deputy bandmaster.

In 1974 – together with his wife Ivy and family – Cliff transferred to Woodhouse, where he played cornet in the band, sang in the songsters and participated in other corps activities.

Cliff is sadly missed by his family and corps members. He is especially remembered for his laughter, love, loyalty and wonderful example of living out the Christian faith. – M. S./D. S.

West Scotland Divisional Commander Major Russell Wyles, on his way to see the Olympic Torch Relay pass through Glasgow, waits for a bus at Stepps station. Send your suggested captions for this picture by email to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with the subject line ‘Picture caption competition’, or by post to Salvationist, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. A selection of the best captions will be printed in Salvationist next month.

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ENID HOWELLS, SKEWEN ENID was promoted to Glory at 95 after a short stay in hospital. Although she had been a member of a Welsh chapel most of her life, she always attended the home league, over-60 club and special corps events. Enid felt called to be a Salvationist, and became a valued soldier of the corps.

She was enthusiastic in her service, and her love for the Lord showed on her face and in her life.

In latter years Enid was unable to attend meetings but her joy in the Lord remained, as she claimed the words of her favourite chorus: ‘Be bold, be strong, for the Lord your God is with you’ as her own. Her cheerful smile is missed. – S. L.

SALVATIONIST 14 July 2012

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SALVATIONIST 14 JULY 2012

22-23

BOOK OF THE WEEK Major Bruce Tulloch reviews Keeping Faith In Faith-Based Organisations by Dean Pallant Major Dean Pallant, a former Editor of Salvationist, now shares with his wife, Major Eirwen Pallant, the role of international co-ordinator for The Salvation Army’s global health services.

In the first four years of this appointment he has travelled to more than 40 countries, some more than once, to assess medical work. At the same time he has been studying for a doctorate in theology and ministry. So he brings to this overview of Salvation Army health ministry not only a professional perspective, but also a keen intelligence and a passionate faith focus on Christian mission – along with a capacity for hard work.

Underlying this book is a deep concern for the health of the poorest people and for the integrity of faith-based health ministry especially in The Salvation Army. He begins by analysing the problems facing such work, especially the relations with secular and governmental bodies which are too often driven by market forces or, especially, an orientation at odds with faith.

Dean goes on to survey how the Army in particular has developed its health and social ministry, examining tensions that still exist as a result of unclear theological foundations and which have led to an unhelpful dualism and the artificial separation of ministry to soul and body. Then he relates this directly to the theme of redemption and the key understanding of ‘healthy persons’ and relationships.

Finally, Dean comes up with practical conclusions. These include careful partnership with other bodies while retaining clearly our faith foundations. But he also advocates shifting emphasis from large-scale multi-specialist hospitals in favour of primary healthcare as close to the family as possible. In our faith-based organisation, he says, this has to be linked directly to the worshipping congregations.

This is not reading for bedtime or beach, and requires commitment, but it is an important piece of research for The Salvation Army, and not only its health ministry. Its practical theology could inform all aspects of our ministry.

Q Keeping Faith In Faith-Based Organisations, priced £16, is published by Wipf & Stock and is available online at amazon.co.uk

QUOTE

SONG

The instrumentalisation of health services is a particular risk for churches engaging in ‘direct healthcare’ services. The ‘instrumental’ attitude manifests itself in the congregations wanting to ‘do something’ about the plight of ‘the poor’ rather than commit to deep relationships with people. Thus, it is critically important that congregation-based health ministries… affirm, enhance and appreciate the faith works of the poor themselves as they find both their agency and identity in the task of improving their own health.

Ours is not a distant God, remote, unfeeling, Who is careless of our loneliness and pain, Through the ministry of men he gives his healing, In their dedicated hands brings hope again.

John Gowans (SASB 238)

Dean Pallant (taken from Keeping Faith In Faith-Based Organisations)

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Raiatea, French Polynesia. Picture: NICK ANDERSON