SALVATIONIST
Nurture leads to nature
BEING a disciple of Jesus is not a hobby, it is a responsibility. When we follow Jesus, we are compelled to lead others to him. Whether that is through proclamation of the gospel or the ministry of our service and presence, however God equips us so we must bring others into relationship with him.
Of course, we are only going to be able to do that if we spend time nurturing our own relationship through reading God’s word, spending time in prayer, and meeting together for fellowship and teaching. Nurture leads to nature.
Romans 12:2 tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Transformation comes from renewal.
Verse 3 of ‘Lord, I Pray That I May Know Thee’ says: ‘Only as I truly know thee/ Can I make thee truly known;/ Only bring the power to others/ Which in my own life is shown’ (SASB 771).
In this week’s issue of Salvationist, we are revisiting the territory’s mission priority of nurturing disciples of Jesus, exploring what that looks like and how we each have a responsibility to grow in our own knowledge and experience in order to lead others to him.
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor
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EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods
SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips
PROOFREADER Chris Horne
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Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
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FOUNDERS Catherine and William Booth
Choosing truth
As Superman soars through cinemas, Ivan Radford celebrates a human example of sharing hope
‘IQUESTION everything and everyone. You trust everyone and think everyone is beautiful.’ That’s how Lois Lane describes Clark Kent in 2025’s Superman, currently in cinemas. When we first meet Lois, a journalist, she is already aware of Clark’s alter-ego, the Man of Steel, and they are both already aware of Superman’s real strength: not having powers, but being a visible, radical symbol of hope, peace and truth in a world of cynicism, lies and division. As he puts it, ‘that’s the real punk rock’.
Reflect and respond
Listen to Lauren Daigle’s ‘You Say’ or reflect on the lyrics. Who does the world say you are? What does God say of you? Which do you listen to?
What difference does it make to you that Jesus became human and knows your every weakness?
Read Matthew 5:14–16. As members of The Salvation Army, how can what we say, do and wear help us stand out as signals of faith, love and hope to others?
This new incarnation might come with a flying dog, but that truth remains key to Superman’s identity, as he lives out a bumbling human existence each day as Clark Kent. The 2025 film sees Superman’s dual life upended by his nemesis, billionaire Lex Luthor, who takes a message from Superman’s home planet and uses it to manipulate hostility towards the outsider. Suddenly, Superman is not just facing extraterrestrial danger but a society tricked into thinking he has nefarious motives beyond helping others.
At its heart, Superman is the story of someone resisting the lies of who the world says they are and instead choosing truth and kindness. Throughout, Clark isn’t an indifferent, impervious figure, but a flawed individual doing his best.
‘I am as human as anyone,’ he declares. ‘I love, I get scared. I wake up every morning and, despite not knowing what to do, I put one foot in front of the other and make the best choices that I can.’
People have often drawn parallels between Superman and Jesus, but the 2025 incarnation feels particularly striking for Christians today, as it emphasises the importance of a shared experience of humanity. All too often, we can think of God as someone ‘over there’ to look up to – rather than someone who ‘became flesh and lived among us’ (John 1:14 International Standard Version).
The Salvation Army’s fourth doctrine says: ‘We believe that in the person of Jesus Christ the Divine and human natures are united, so that he is truly and properly God and truly and properly man.’ Stop for a second. Isn’t that amazing?
Hebrews 4:15 says: ‘We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all – all but the sin’ (The Message). How many times have you sung the words ‘Jesus knows our every weakness’ (SASB 795) and been comforted that you have a friend, as well as a Saviour, in Jesus?
During Jesus’ physical ministry on Earth, he was an icon for a radical, countercultural way of life rooted in love and hope. Today, as he lives and works in, with and through us, we naturally become visible beacons of that love and hope in a world being pulled apart by deceit, greed, pride, fear and distrust (see Matthew 5:14–16).
That doesn’t mean we’re instantly flawless and Christlike: our discipleship is an ongoing journey of faith, filled with choices about what we should say and do at every step. Jesus understands that intimately because he’s been in our shoes. When we focus on him, he helps us and gives us the strength to resist the lies of the world – that we aren’t enough, that we don’t belong – and instead choose the truth of Jesus’ hope, salvation and friendship.
Are you a beacon sharing Jesus’ love with the people around you? Why wouldn’t you choose to share it? After all, that’s the real punk rock.
IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist
Quiz
A Sun-day quiz
by Garry D Reed
1 Name Donald Osgood’s 1959 march featuring ‘Travel Along in the Sunshine’.
‘We are all role models to someone’
Ben
Broad
(Cambridge Citadel) shares what he learnt through the Growing Leaders course
2 Quote the first line of Thomas Chisholm’s classic hymn that includes the lyrics ‘Summer and winter, springtime and harvest’.
3 Name the seasonal song written by Eliza Hewitt on a warm summer day.
4 Name the lively euphonium solo by Chris Mallet that reminds us of a popular journeying chorus.
5 Name the Salvation Army composer who wrote ‘Light Up the Sunshine’.
6 ‘The sun comes up/ It’s a new day dawning’ are lines from which Matt Redman song?
7 Sometimes sung to the tune ‘Royal Oak’, name the Cecil Alexander hymn that talks of the pleasant summer sun, sunset, ripe fruits and flowers.
8 Give the summery title of The Salvation Army’s version of Girlguiding.
9 According to Nellie Talbot, who wants us for a sunbeam?
10 Name Ray Bowes’s 1965 composition that uses the chorus ‘Climb, Climb Up Sunshine Mountain’.
OR the past 10 months, I have been part of the Growing Leaders course in the East of England Division. I’ve learnt a great deal about myself, God and leadership, both as a youth leader at church and in my day job in IT. The course reinforced what was already doing, put a new spin on some things, and completely changed way I approach others.
Putting Christ at the centre of leadership in the workplace was significant takeaway from the course, enabling me to apply the skills I gained at my church and in my workplace. It has also given me the confidence to lead in a way that puts my faith at the centre.
What continues to amaze me is how the kind of leadership modelled in the Bible is the same kind of leadership being discussed today in the workplace as a valuable asset, sometimes even being put forward as a new concept. It is almost like the God who created us knows how best to lead us!
I believe it is essential to be open about our faith in the workplace without imposing it on anyone. My grandparents always taught me that our actions are the best way to spread the gospel message. When we act differently, lead differently and love differently, if we are open about having a faith alongside this, it can lead to some fantastic conversations.
Growing Leaders helped me in my church life, too. In 2024, my corps youth team and youth group took a leap of faith and went to the Satellites festival, which is aimed at 13
The five-day event brings together thousands of young Christians from across the UK and various denominations. This year, we’re going back! The event is going to be bigger
and better, and the group we are taking is also bigger, with young people from across the territory and other churches joining us as well. As a leader, I gained so much from witnessing God move in 2024 within my group, and the event as a whole – it makes all the paperwork worthwhile.
Being a leader isn’t about a job title or role; it is something we are all doing whether we see it or not. We are all role models to someone; we might not realise it, but how we act, lead and love has a profound effect on everyone around us, and can either point them towards God or away from him.
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
Poetry corner
Sunday Sunday
We’d get dressed in our uniforms or best Sunday attire; we’d come to the citadel and sing in the choir.
We’d play in the band and chat with our mates and go home to a roast like a mound on our plates.
We would be at the corps three times every Sunday, and as kids we were never allowed out to play.
We’d sit and watch as the sinner came forward and wonder by what sin the seeker was haunted.
There was songsters on Tuesday and band on a Thursday, corps cadets on a Monday and youth club on Friday. There was fellowship on Wednesday and then if we were bored, a festival on Saturday to make our hearts soar.
It’s not quite the same anymore as you know, and sometimes we long for the old days to show.
But now as we ponder what to do with our time, we have space in our lives to the stranger be kind. It offers a chance to meet for a coffee with a person who hasn’t seen anybody.
All the praise and the worship it really is due but now we have time to tell others for whom.
So let us keep going as everything changes, God’s still in charge and our lives he still manages.
So lift up your hearts and sing praises to him at the end of the day he still is the King.
Mike Rosevear Maidenhead
Evangelism
Paul wrote to Timothy, there in a letter, ‘Be an evangelist.’ There’s nothing better, For Jesus had said you’ll be fishers of men,
Today he is seeking disciples again.
To be an evangelist, for souls have a passion
The need of those who on Jesus would fashion.
There has to be in us a yearning that drives,
A burning desire in our hearts to save lives.
Letting the Light In
We could build up a barricade
Keep the endless distractions out
Fight off the enemies
From behind the protections we’ve made with our own hands
We could sit in a closed circle
Guarding each other to keep things safe
Speak long lists of reasons
For why we can’t go beyond the boundaries we’ve decided in our own minds
Or...
We could study Jesus
And let him transform the way we think
And the way we love
So that we add to our world the Kingdom values of our eternal God
We could refuse to see walls
Nomadic disciples even in our own communities
Loving and living
As God’s children in supermarket, office, and every place that’s ever been built
We could make bigger and bigger tables
Welcoming the whosoever
Embracing every soul
Because Jesus loved the whole world and so must we
We could learn from Jesus
Nurturing one another with words of grace
Always showing mercy
Making every word and action and thought count towards letting the light in.
Major Lynne Shaw
Firstly, we need to work out all our actions,
Whilst always aware there could be distractions.
Praying, we will always be willing and able
To show Jesus is real and not just a fable.
Preaching God’s word will patience require,
As we give out Good News we never must tire.
Not all our efforts will give us success, There’s many who hear who could not care less.
Lead Me
Lead me O Lord to be who you want me to be,
Guide my path with your hands,
Bless me with the gifts you have for me,
Send your Holy Spirit to guide me,
Help me to know how to use these gifts,
So that I may glorify your holy name,
As I walk through life,
Show me the paths,
Help me to see the light,
So that I am not consumed by darkness, I will follow you Lord,
Because you have loved me first, I am blessed with your grace, I wish to lead a life of service, So that I may one day kneel at your throne,
Guide me in your ways Lord,
May my life be blessed with love, grace, peace, hope and joy, I will listen for your voice, calling me in the direction you want me to go.
Dawn Chivers Leicester West
Be always persistent and go out again
Whenever our efforts are seeming in vain. Jesus died but arose and is living today
To bring full salvation to all who will pray.
Wherever God needs us is where we must be,
In the right place results we will see.
Be passionate, prepare, make plans and persist,
Then go out, seek the lost, be an evangelist.
Brian Colley Clowne
Blessed are you when people insult you
Captain Liam Beattie reminds us that many Christian values are counter to those of the world
MATTHEW 5:11 AND 12
IMAGINE that everything is going your way. Everybody agrees with most of the things you’re saying, they constantly want to be around you and there isn’t a single challenge in your seemingly blissful world.
Feeling optimistic, you wish to profess your faith in an intentional way, knowing that same sense of bliss and popularity will still be afforded to you. But, in fact, it isn’t. You are branded ‘delusional’, ‘ridiculous’ and are no longer taken seriously in your social circles. In such a situation, would you have an attitude of gratitude?
This has been my experience but, despite this, I have never felt richer. I can attribute this to one word: blessed. I love this word for many reasons, but most importantly because Christ himself is saying it to me.
Imagine the feelings of the many people gathered around Jesus – while Judea is under Roman occupation –hearing from the Teacher that they are blessed. The feeling must be overwhelming, as those who know Jesus as Messiah hear first-hand that God’s favour is upon them.
Like those mountainside listeners, Jesus also speaks to us. Though we can’t experience that same eye contact with Jesus as they did, through his Spirit we can have that same feeling of jubilation. As we go against the tide of the world’s attitudes and values, we capitalise on this blessing by having an attitude of gratitude.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
When you are insulted for your faith, do you respond with grace or with challenge?
It isn’t easy being a dedicated Christian. Society is more of a challenge than an ally to God. Subsequently, there will always be conflict between the Church and the world. Why? Because Christian values are counter to those of the world. Rather than humility, the world favours prosperity. Rather than what’s right, the world favours might. The world operates with an attitude that looks to trivialise the concept of a grand heavenly Father.
This is not a 21st-century phenomenon. Every era in history has challenged God and his people. The Old Testament is full of accounts of faithful people challenging the ways of the world and striving forward valiantly for God. Though some were more successful than others, it is still a remarkable example of having an attitude of gratitude for God.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What do you believe made the leaders and prophets in the Scriptures so successful?
Do you believe they achieved what could be achieved?
A wise mentor of mine once told me that persecution ‘is a sign that you
are following God’s direction’. In the adolescent stage of my spiritual journey, the very notion wanted to make me scoff at the idea. How on earth is that even helpful when you’re frustrated and irritated? What I found helpful, though, was knowing that being part of a Christian community meant that I wasn’t alone in my trials and persecutions.
In verse 12 of our study passage, Jesus, paying homage to saints of old, tells his audience to ‘rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in Heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you’. Not only is this an assurance for his hearers, but there is also a recognition that they are in this together. For today’s disciples, the Church is in this together, not only with contemporary believers, but also with those great leaders of faith who have gone before.
Another advocate with an attitude of pioneering for God was the apostle Paul. Despite being incarcerated in a Roman jail, he penned many letters to believers in the churches to persevere under such persecution. The fact that he wrote while in chains emphasised his point.
Colossians 1:24 says: ‘Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.’
Paul rejoiced in his suffering. It is obvious that he grasped what Jesus said about those who are persecuted being blessed, even though that attitude of gratitude isn’t always easy to live out.
whenPAUSE AND REFLECT
How do you keep yourself accountable for living your faith, despite challenging circumstances?
‘When life gives you lemons, make lemonade’ is a saying I’ve heard many times. If we add a biblical lens to this, we might say: ‘When the world persecutes you, dig deep and reap the blessings.’ Admittedly that isn’t as catchy, but the meaning is clear: we are to understand that to live by faith is to relish being in the Kingdom of God.
Hebrews 11 reminds us that the saints of old lived by faith in all that they were and all they were called to do: ‘Some faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were put to death by stoning; they were sawn in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and ill-treated – the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground’ (Hebrews 11:36–38).
In the face of persecution, we, like them, are called to live by faith, to have an attitude of gratitude in all we do, knowing that God will show us favour. What a blessing that is!
A shortened version of Prayer Matters will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist in 2025. To read the full, unedited booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 16 AUGUST: CARE FOR CREATION – GROWING OPPORTUNITIES
Pray for clubs where children are learning about how to care for creation: growing fruit and vegetables, building insect hotels and discovering new ways of creating environments where wildlife can thrive. Pray they will become lifelong carers for God’s precious creation. by
Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
SUNDAY 17 AUGUST: SABBATH PRAYER – GROWING IN LOVE
We pray for the children and young people we know. Surround them with love that is safe and true from family, friends and mentors who see their worth. Help them know they’re never alone, even when they feel misunderstood or unseen. May they grow in wisdom and compassion, living as lights in this world, shining with your grace. by Jillian Gemmell (Divisional Youth Worker, Central and Southern Scotland Division)
MONDAY 18 AUGUST: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – NEW ACADEMIC YEAR –PRIMARY SCHOOL
I pray for children and young people starting new schools, and for the little children entering the education system for the first time, leaving their parents for a significant amount of time every day. I pray this introduction to school will be exciting for them, that they will make new friends and find a thirst for learning. by Rachel Gash (Divisional Youth Specialist, London Division)
TUESDAY 19 AUGUST: SERVING AND CARING – NEW ACADEMIC YEAR – SECONDARY SCHOOL
I pray for children starting secondary school. This can be daunting and so I pray you will take any anxieties away. I pray new friendships will be made, and that young people will find their place within this new setting. by Rachel Gash (Divisional Youth Specialist, London Division)
WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST: GROWING IN FAITH – TIMES OF CHANGE
We pray for children whose summer holiday marks a time of change. May they know you’re with them at all times. May their trust in you mean they’re able to declare you’re their rock and salvation, a fortress that means they will not be shaken (see Psalm 61). May anxiety not overwhelm; may they find confidence in knowing that you are with them and for them. by Captain Kat Whitmore (Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary)
THURSDAY 21 AUGUST: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – MALAWI TERRITORY Pray for the Army’s work helping to rescue children from trafficking. Pray for the Recovery Centre, where children are helped to reintegrate safely and sustainably into their home communities. Pray these children will know the presence and peace of God and will be fully healed from the effects of trauma.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 22 AUGUST: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – REFLECTION – SOCIAL MEDIA
I pray for young people who are alone, grappling in the dark of the digital space without help. Why do we long so much for affirmation in this place? The overwhelming nature of it all crowds out your peace and calm. How do you speak to us when we absorb information in 20-second clips and adverts? How do we learn again to be still and focus?
CAPTAIN LIAM BEATTIE Corps Leader Leicester West
by Hannah Willis (Divisional Children’s Worker, Central and Southern Scotland Division)
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?
Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.
Pour and ref i ll
Abi Miller reminds us that discipling others begins with following Jesus ourselves
WE live in a world of titles, roles and identities. For me, that includes daughter, granddaughter, sister, colleague and youth worker. If someone asked who you are, would ‘disciple of Jesus’ make your list?
In Matthew 28:19 and 20, Jesus makes discipleship central to our purpose: ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.’
What a challenge – to go out, spread his word and lead others to follow him! It’s a calling that many today take lightly. When Jesus said ‘follow me’ (Matthew 4:19) to his disciples, he wasn’t inviting a casual click to follow him on Instagram or Facebook. He was calling 12 ordinary people – fishers, tax collectors, sons and brothers – to leave everything familiar behind and reorientate their entire lives around him. Discipleship means saying yes before we see the full picture; these men had no idea what lay ahead, yet in faith and trust they chose to follow him.
A disciple – from the Greek mathētēs – isn’t just someone who believes. A disciple is a learner, a follower, an apprentice. It’s not a title we earn but a journey we enter – a daily walk of spiritual growth.
I recently returned from being on staff at the Central and Southern Scotland Adventure Camp. In the middle of the
chaos, fun and sleepless nights, I found purpose: I was reminded of Jesus’ call to discipleship – not just for the campers but for us as leaders. Nurturing disciples of Jesus begins not with leading others, but with following Jesus ourselves. If discipleship is about learning to live like Jesus, that includes letting him restore us, teach us and lead us – even when we’re the ones pouring out.
During the final morning of worship, a young person approached me to pray with them about their home situation. I was so moved when this happened and truly felt God’s calling of discipleship in my personal life, because discipleship is about walking with others in their vulnerability, not just teaching from a distance. It’s about listening, loving and lingering – not rushing past the sacred moments that ask for our presence.
The Salvation Army’s ninth doctrine says: ‘We believe that continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ.’ Discipleship isn’t a one-time decision; it’s the posture we hold, the surrender we choose, the transformation we invite day by day. That means tending gently to our own soul, not out of selfishness but out of stewardship.
Discipleship means making space for silence, for Scripture, for joy. It means letting Christ speak – not just through us, but to us. It’s OK to pause. It’s holy to receive.
The rhythm of discipleship includes both pouring out and being refilled. What does that look like in your daily life? Not just being someone who knows Jesus’ words, but someone who lives them. Not just being someone who goes to church, but someone who is church.
Fans admire and followers imitate, but disciples walk with – especially when it’s inconvenient, costly or quiet. Sometimes that journey feels dramatic – a bold moment of change. Other times, it unfolds gently, like a slow awakening. Either way, being a disciple should shape our deepest identity. It should inform how we speak, how we love, how we respond.
In Jesus’ day, disciples would walk with a rabbi, not merely to hear his teaching, but to learn how to live it. It was immersive. Embodied. Wholehearted. Today, Jesus doesn’t just call us to believe in him. He calls us to follow him, to become like him and to surrender all to him. Then we can lean fully into the purpose he instills in our lives: to go and make disciples.
Would you name ‘disciple of Jesus’ among your core identities? Is discipleship central to your purpose? Do you make space to be filled up as well as pour out?
Retreating well
William Booth College’s Spiritual Formation
Coordinator Major Susan Woodgate and Spiritual Life Director Major Matt Spencer introduce The Retreat
What’s happened to House 9 at William Booth College?
Matt Sue and I arrived at the college in 2023. Since then, we’ve redeveloped and reimagined the space as a retreat available to the territory. Sue’s done an amazing job aesthetically, while also having a vision for how to use it.
Sue The building is great. It was a blank canvas when we started and it feels different, fresh.
How did you create the right environment?
Sue We wanted to soften it, so it didn’t become a conference space. We put time into choosing furnishings and creating cosy hubs indoors. There is a main meeting room with soft chairs and plants. There is a beautiful little prayer snug, which has a sense of intimacy. There are bedrooms that were created with simplicity, but with kinaesthetic and visual prompts. And there is a shared dining space with things to evoke a sense of drawing on God. I’ve used the space myself to really know what it feels like. Matt We’ve got amazing outside spaces as well. The quiet quad on the college campus has had a prayer labyrinth for some years, but we’d added an outdoor prayer hut, surrounded by flowers chosen for their fragrances – lavender, jasmine, scents that evoke sensory engagement. Beyond the college canteen building, we’ve also opened The Oasis – a walled garden and multi-use reflective space. It contains another two prayer huts, an old olive tree and a water feature.
Who could most benefit from this space?
Sue Anyone and everyone! Our strapline is ‘retreat, reflect and respond’. A retreat is about intentionality of heart and mind, so anyone who wants to reflect on their life and relationship with God and respond in some way. That doesn’t have to be an individual. A corps group or
leadership team could book a weekend. A songwriter could book a couple of days with friends. That’s the kind of space we want it to be.
Matt The space is available to anyone connected to the Army who has the support of an officer or local leader. This is the same model that’s used for Design for Life. We’ve got limited space, so we’re not opening it more widely than that at this point.
Sue The endorsement of a spiritual leader is important, because a retreat isn’t a holiday: it’s about creating intentional space to come face-to-face with something within yourself. It isn’t for the faint-hearted. You need to be ready.
Why does the college need a retreat space?
Sue I believe that, as Salvationists, we’re being called to build on our heritage of pragmatic holiness.
Matt This is part of a wider move within the Army; we’re not doing it in isolation. Sue We often don’t fully recognise what a retreat is. An Army doesn’t retreat; it isn’t in our language. A retreat is a deliberate act of stepping outside normal routine to be in a quiet place where all our senses are open and ready to listen to God. At Together 2025, General Lyndon Buckingham spoke about the ‘in’ and the ‘out’. We’re great at the ‘out’. The Retreat is all about the ‘in’ – it provides a space for a planned full stop in the narrative of our lives.
Matt Perhaps we forget that, as an Army, strategic and intentional retreat can ultimately help us win the battle!
• Is The Retreat a space for you? Start your conversation and get the full brochure by emailing retreat@ salvationarmy.org.uk
East of England Division
Divisional Youth Specialist Ruth
Beattie
We are passionate about investing in young people and nurturing their journey of faith. Each year, from November to July, we run Transformers –a nine‑month discipleship programme to help teenagers grow in their relationships with God, understand their identity and discover their purpose.
The programme is shaped around 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager by Kara Powell and Brad M Griffin, which guides the three core weekends of teaching and reflection. Over these weekends, we explore identity, belonging and purpose in a safe and supportive environment. Each young person is paired with a mentor.
Alongside the residential weekends, participants engage in a digital book club, reading We Are Satellites: How to Put God at the Centre of Your Life by Martin Saunders, which helps them further
explore faith in today’s world. This combination of in person connection and online learning creates a powerful rhythm of growth, community and spiritual depth.
In July during our last weekend together, we graduate each young person before they return to their corps to continue their journeys and explore what God is calling them to do next.
Many former Transformers continue their development by serving as young leaders at future divisional kids camps, becoming role models for others as they grow into leaders themselves.
The Transformers programme is more than a series of weekends: it’s a life shaping experience. Rooted in biblical teaching, built on community, and driven by purpose, it’s a powerful expression of our commitment to raising the next generation of disciples in The Salvation Army.
‘Being a part of Transformers has been not only enjoyable – meeting new people and gaining new experiences – but also eye-opening. I’ve learnt and understood a lot about leadership, discipleship, but also about teamwork and being a part of the bigger picture and plan in my life and the lives of others.’
Blossom
Our future and our present
Two divisions share how the
Transformers programme is discipling young people
‘I
love the Transformers initiative, as I have met new people and grown closer to some I knew beforehand.
I particularly appreciate the leadership and safeguarding training as they are extremely helpful for autistic understanding of the world.’
Daniel
‘So far I think Transformers has been great. I’ve met a lot of new people and had volunteering opportunities that I would have never had before and it has also helped me develop leadership skills.’
Ethan
Central and Southern Scotland Division
Divisional Youth Worker Jillian Gemmell and Divisional Children’s Worker Hannah Willis
It has been great to offer Transformers to our division for the first time. We have eight Transformers who were recruited at the beginning of the year. Straight away the Transformers were introduced to the programme’s three essential components: discipleship, leadership and mission.
Our Transformers from the get go have been kitted out with clothing to support them in mission as they have travelled around the division. They all have new journals, Bibles and Satellites, which we are working through as a group.
To initiate them, we completed a Go Ape course and had one of two planned residential weekends where we were gathered around the campfire and talked through our individual journeys with God so far.
‘Transformers has been a great way to develop my leadership skills. Working alongside a great team to push each other to achieve what we can do. I can’t wait for the challenges we get to face next.’
We met the newly commissioned cadets and a mission team from the USA, which was helpful as we discern our individual callings. As the programme continues, we will delve into material about Apest.
Still to come are two further residential camps, where we will take part in leading games and worship. We are having a retreat day as we learn more about Sabbath and then send them out to lead a corps meeting.
On our next residential weekend, we will learn more about the history of The Salvation Army and what mission looks like in 2025. It has been a great watch as they grow their understanding of who they are and what they can do for God. And we’re only halfway through!
Nurturing young disciples
Divisional Children’s Officer Captain Luke Cozens shares how young disciples are being nurtured in the North East Division
WE’RE really concentrating on our junior camp this month, which has a focus on the Holy Spirit – what it means to expect the Holy Spirit to act in our lives, and how we can respond to him. As well as fun and games, camp includes daily worship, small group time and evening prayers. Our aim is to create a Christian community that gives children a taste of the Kingdom of God. Last year, we had the highest number of kids attending since before the Covid-19 pandemic! We have almost 50 attending this month’s camp.
We also have a children’s council, which advises me on how to support children’s ministry in the division. We meet three times a year. We share one good thing that has happened in the Army since we last met, one challenge and one thing that has helped us go deeper with God. We then explore various topics chosen by the children and the divisional children’s officer. The children are keen that we provide real space to connect with God through sharing with others, exploring the Bible, in worship and prayer.
Most of our corps have some kind of children’s ministry and there’s some great discipleship work happening.
Bedlington Corps has a welldeveloped children’s ministry that focuses on discipleship. They sent four young people to Transformers who came back with more confidence in their relationship with God and in their ability to take on responsibility in the corps. One volunteered to be part of the welcome team. A second asked
to shadow the corps treasurer. They are also helping the young people’s leaders develop a strategy for outreach and will be taking an active part in our community day in September.
Darlington Corps has also undertaken a review of its Messy Church to ensure it’s well placed to disciple children.
Murton Corps has an active kids’ club which is deep into Bible study and discipling young people. They help with the food bank and lead on Sundays and with community projects.
Corps leader Territorial Envoy Mark Simpson says: ‘Our young people have taken part in a range of discipleship activities including a Passion play, the opening of our Bethel Retreat, a holiday at Haggerston Castle Holiday Park and our interactive Bible studies – our young people are so excited about faith and eager to answer questions! It’s a joy for me and Young People’s Sergeant-Major Annette Rose to share with them in discipleship. It’s a real blessing to see young people grow in the Lord, many of whom have no previous experience with church – we have 18 young people on our books and only 3 of them come from church backgrounds.’
Buds of promise
Major Lynne Shaw reminds us that we are called to make disciples, not fully formed Christians
HAVE you ever shadowed somebody to see how they carry out a particular role?
The idea is that you watch carefully, noticing good practice, picking up helpful information, learning processes and thinking about how you might do the same tasks.
In Matthew 28:19 we read what’s since been called the Great Commission: ‘Therefore, as you go, disciple people in all nations’ (International Standard Version). I was thinking about this a while ago and looking at the plants and trees coming back to life after the winter. I do love flowers very much, but their buds also have extraordinary beauty. Part of the beauty of a bud is in the waiting and the promise of what it might become. Unless you know the plant, you can’t be certain what the final flower will look like. The same is true of the buds you find on trees and shrubs – what will they grow into?
Even if you do know the plant, you can’t be entirely certain of the final flower or fruit. Maybe something will disrupt its growth, or unseasonable weather might influence its final size and shape. There’s beauty in that process, in the hope for tomorrow’s outcomes.
When we think about the Great Commission, it can seem like a huge burden to be a disciple who helps make disciples, but we can take encouragement from the gentle souls who’ve helped nurture our own faith, from all sorts of innovative missional activities, and from words of Scripture.
For instance, in Acts 8 we read of how Philip – a man the Samarian crowds had paid close attention to – followed an angel’s instructions to head south on the desert road. On his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, who had been worshipping in Jerusalem and was now reading words from the prophet Isaiah. Philip shared the good news of
Jesus and the eunuch asked: ‘What can stand in the way of my being baptised?’ (v36). Then Philip baptised him.
This as-you-go nurturing of faith was the beginning of the blossoming of a bud of promise. Only God could have known that Philip would cross this man’s path. This partnership with God reminds me of Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth, where he wrote: ‘What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe – as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labour. For we are fellow workers in God’s service’ (1 Corinthians 3:5–9).
We are called to disciple people in all nations, but we are released by God to do our part with the influence we can have, and trust the final flower to God’s love and unthwarted purposes. I believe God intended it all to be a natural, uncomplicated process rather than a burden –an opportunity to be awake to the guidance and inspiration of the Spirit by sharing not just our words, but our own transformed lives. As our own discipleship influences those around us, God will make things grow.
MAJOR LYNNE SHAW Editorial Assistant Publishing Department
Walking together
Lieut-Colonel Goff Payne reminds us that we are not called to walk in faith on our own
WALKING is said to be good for the soul as well as the body. People track their steps, or keep a record of their walking. There are various theories as to how far one should walk to stay healthy, but it is almost universally accepted that walking is good for us. It can be a means of coping with stress or simply enjoying the beauty of God’s creation.
Knowing where we are is an important part of walking. But knowing where we are in life and in our relationship with God is vital too. The opposite is being lost – either not knowing where we are, or spiritually lost, without hope and without God to guide us. Just as walkers need maps, Christians need the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, through the reading of Scripture, prayer and the advice of trusted friends.
Reasonably accurate maps of the UK have been available for about 240 years. Initially these maps were not well coordinated and so, in 1935, Ordnance Survey implemented a network of triangulation points, unifying localised maps into a comprehensive network of Britian.
This retriangulation happened over 26 years. More than 6,500 triangulation points were erected all over Britain and many of them are still visible today. The first was located just outside the village of Cold Ashby in Northamptonshire.
These pillars – or trig points – were erected mainly on high points so that they could be seen easily.
There had to be at least two other trig points visible from any one pillar. Once these were in place, Ordnance Survey could measure the angles between trig points, as well as their height above sea level. This made it possible to map everything accurately.
These pillars are now obsolete, as satellite technology has taken their place, but we Christians should be like trig points – firmly established and acting as beacons to others, so they might get their bearings for life.
Jesus made it clear that hearing his words and putting them into practice were the foundations for life (see Matthew 7:24). The apostle Paul wrote: ‘No one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ’ (1 Corinthians 3:11).
Just as a trig point is useless in isolation, we need one another too! We are a fellowship, a community of believers. Ephesians 2:19–22 remind us that we belong together as the body of Christ, with Jesus holding the structure together. This becomes something holy and beautiful.
Of course, we are human and have failings and foibles. Life’s pressures and challenges – unfulfilled longings, doubts, suffering, sickness, trauma, persecution, failure – can erode our faith. But when our foundations are strong, we can withstand these obstacles. When we are beacons that others can see – sharing advice, giving guidance or receiving the occasional rebuke – we can ensure we are well positioned to receive even more from the Lord.
Who are the trig points that help you navigate life? How can you be a pointer from which others get their bearings?
LIEUT-COLONEL GOFF PAYNE Corps Leader Sheffield Hillsborough
God’s way with me
Three delegates from the 262nd session at the International College for Officers (ICO) share their testimonies
Major Germanie Gachelin Caribbean Territory
I come from the Turks and Caicos Islands. Turks and Caicos is beautiful by nature and is a British overseas territory.
I am a humble servant of the Lord. I love the Lord and my heart’s desire is to serve him all the days of my life. I was born and raised in Haiti into a Salvation Army family.
I have come from Turks and Caicos to be at the ICO, but from here I will be going to my new appointment in Suriname, a small country on the northern coast of South America. The capital of Suriname is Paramaribo.
God has appointed me to work in Suriname to continue to do his will, and I know that he will be with me. I ask God to use me in every area where I am weak to make me strong.
Coming to the ICO is more than a blessing to me; in fact, it’s a great privilege. I am honoured to be in Session 262. I did not know anyone before I came – now, we are a big one family.
I believe God has a purpose for me
and a blessing to overflow. I will invite God’s presence in my life. I will be obedient to his voice speaking to me. Through the lectures and the teaching at the ICO, I will use them in my ministry and train my people with those materials.
My colleagues at the ICO are a blessing to me. I enjoy the fellowship among ourselves. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for ICO Session 262. Together we can have a better Army. I pray for the General and his team, and I pray for all Salvationists across the world, including our territorial leaders and divisional leaders, that God will give them vision for this beautiful Army. He is able to do more than we can imagine and that is why I love him so much, because he is so dear to me.
God has been good to me and I will take all the opportunities I have to reflect, to meditate on God’s word. I ask God to make me pure and holy. Then I will sing: ‘Jesus, hold my hand,/ I need thee every hour.’
Major Sandeep Massey India Northern Territory
My wife and I are Salvation Army officers and God has blessed us with three children. I was born and raised in a traditional Christian family. I was very far from God in my childhood but, one day in 1999, my grandmother took me to a spiritual revival meeting. During the final day of the meeting on 15 October 1999, God touched me and filled me with a deep sense of his dependability and the fire of the Holy Spirit. That evening, I surrendered myself to God and accepted Jesus as my Saviour.
God spoke to me through a vision of Jesus’ triumphant entry and I experienced my call to serve him. I prayed to Jesus for confirmation of his calling. Then I heard a voice that said ‘go and serve the Lord and my people’ and I responded to his call. Major Samuel Lal, who is now with his Lord, helped me in my path to serve God.
When I was selected to enter the session of cadets from 2006 to 2008, I again prayed for confirmation, and God confirmed to me with these words: ‘The lot is cast into the lap, but its every
decision is from the Lord’ (Proverbs 16:33). With this experience I put two markers in my Bible, one which said yes, go to training but the second said no, no need to go. The next day when I woke up and opened my Bible without turning any pages, the first marker said ‘serve the Lord through The Salvation Army’ but the second marker I couldn’t find!
After being commissioned, God used us in many corps and divisional appointments, even in other states of India.
Now we are appointed to Udhampur Corps in the Jammu and Kashmir region, where it is hard to proclaim the gospel, but we serve the Almighty God through God’s power and provision and with support from territorial headquarters. Through the ICO, God has provided me an opportunity to be in the UK and to connect with the powerful roots of our Church. I thank God for creating such a space for me to experience his power and encouragement from friends and officer colleagues. This has been a remarkable experience, which I will reflect for life.
Captain Ilona Konovalova Sweden and Latvia Territory
I serve as a corps officer at Riga 1 Corps. I feel very privileged and blessed to be an ICO delegate. When I came here, I was very worried about the flight, the unfamiliar environment, and also about my family and church in Latvia without me for such a long time. But I left everything in God’s hands and experienced God’s protection, guidance and blessing every step of the way. Our God is powerful and loving. He knows us better than we know ourselves and he cares for his children.
When I came here, I asked God to transform me, fill me and use me for his glory. From the first day at the ICO, I felt accepted, loved and blessed. God is speaking to me in a special way through his word, nature, people and visions.
I had two questions to ask God and I received clear answers to them within the first week. I was convinced that I was called to serve only in my homeland, Latvia. However, through the wonderful testimony of Captain Andrew Hammond (IHQ), God specially touched my heart. I realised that God was calling me to
What is the ICO?
Located at Sunbury Court, the ICO exists to further officers’ personal and leadership development. It provides an environment for them to flourish spiritually through teaching, prayer, worship and fellowship.
something bigger, to international ministry.
The second thing I asked God for was to give me a like-minded friend with whom I could share joy, sorrow and prayer. From day one, God allowed me to experience his blessings in this matter as well. I met so many like-minded, passionate and faithful people who had similar experiences. I could feel God breaking down all barriers and building bridges that would last for ever. Praise God, I needed it so much, because constantly serving others, I often felt lonely and empty.
So many wonderful moments of worship, powerful and engaging lectures, Bible study discussions, fellowship, and unhurried personal time with God are shaping me and fulfilling me, giving me inspiration and encouragement to begin new ministries and surrender completely to God’s will.
I thank God for this life-changing time at the ICO and am grateful to the regional leaders of Latvia, Majors Steve and Melanie Smith, for their encouragement and support.
MEETING
CLACTON-ON-SEA The church was filled almost to capacity when Harlow Young People’s Band and Singing Company led the Sunday meeting. The message was given by Songster Leader Liz Harrod (Harlow) and included music from the young people, the songsters and the band. After the meeting, the young people spent the rest of the day at the beach, with their flag planted in the sand. – VR
ANNIVERSARY
DUNSTABLE To celebrate its 140th corps anniversary, a reunion weekend reconnected current and former members over shared memories and the enduring legacy of service that has shaped countless lives in the town. Corps leaders Captain Jacqueline and Territorial Envoy Roger Coates said: ‘Whether it’s through a hot meal, a listening ear, or a place to belong, The Salvation Army has always been here, and we’re as committed as ever to being a light in our community.’ – AR
EVENT
NORWICH CITADEL Divisional Children’s Worker Hannah Potter hosted an informal evening at the hall to talk about her experience representing The Salvation Army at the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. During the evening, she spoke about inequalities facing women and girls worldwide, and shared material about human trafficking, period poverty, sexual abuse, gender-based violence, the girl child, and educating men and boys. The evening also included a viewing of I’m Just a Girl, a video created by the Army’s International Social Justice Girls group. – MW
COMMUNITY
WELLING Corps members joined businesses, community groups, councillors and the mayor for a litter pick. More than 60 bags of litter were removed from the street. The corps strives to be visible at community litter picks and they are excellent opportunities to show faith in action. – KS
ANNIVERSARY
BATH CITADEL To celebrate 160 years of The Salvation Army, officers brought their sessional flags to the meeting and said a few words about their time as cadets. Some brought the sessional flags of their parents and grandparents, bringing back many happy memories. – SL
ANNIVERSARY
BRADFORD CITADEL The 30th corps anniversary was celebrated with a visit from Sale Band, who presented a varied and exciting programme of music. The second half of the concert, themed There’s a Place for Us, took the story of Noah, inspiring the capacity congregation to find their place in the corps and the Kingdom of God. Anniversary celebrations continued the following day, and the afternoon’s Messy Church explored being a disciple of Jesus in creative ways. – TM
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
BRISTOL EASTON A wonderful celebration of the corps children and young people included a joy-filled concert featuring the trainer band and singing company, who shared their God-given talents with an encouraging and supportive audience. The leadership team thanks everyone who took part and the fantastic team of volunteers who provided a delicious afternoon tea afterwards! – LT
COMMUNITY
HASTINGS CITADEL Corps folk shared in an early morning swim and beach litter pick before celebrating Employability Day with Employment Plus at the hall. More than 60 people attended, including the mayor and local businesses, who shared job openings with those seeking employment or volunteering opportunities. There was also time for quiet reflection. – D-AH
EVENT
EVENT
DUNDEE Aaron Gauton proudly showed his model of Arbroath harbour to the congregation. The model was a project during his last term at Dundee and Angus College. Aaron sings in the community choir and is eager to set the table for coffee fellowship. He is an amazing young man who inspires all he meets. – HY
OUTREACH
TORQUAY An open-air meeting at the inner harbour commemorated 160 years of The Salvation Army and 137 years since Salvationists were arrested for attending an open-air meeting at the inner harbour. The band played in the exact place where the arrests took place. A plaque erected in 2018 records the event. Literature was distributed extensively, and proceedings were concluded by the band playing everybody out with ‘Crown Him with Many Crowns’ (SASB 358), a fitting conclusion to a wonderful occasion. – MR
EMERGENCY AID
USA SOUTHERN Following the devastating flooding of the Guadalupe River, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services worked around the clock to provide meals, drinks and emotional and spiritual care to communities in Central Texas. Emergency canteens supported first responders and survivors in Kerrville, Hunt and Ingram. San Angelo Corps opened its shelter for overflow evacuations, and the Army in Kerrville worked with county and state officials to coordinate the receiving, organising and distributing of supplies to impacted individuals and families. – AR
HOMELESSNESS
SWINDON BOOTH HOUSE The Lifehouse transformed an unused office into a sensory room to support residents’ mental wellness. Assistant Support Worker Jay Wiles and colleague Connor Graham suggested the idea after noticing how residents and staff – many of whom are neurodiverse – struggle with sensory overload. The relaxation room offers space to decompress, process emotions and regain stability and has been welcomed by residents. – AR
WREXHAM The North and Mid Wales Cynefin gathered for their first Bible Day. Led by Divisional Commander LieutColonel Jonathan Roberts and Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts, the day focused on sacrificial living as outlined in Romans 12. – CD
International appointments
The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff
Effective 1 September
COLONELS SAMUEL AND THERESA BAAH, officers of the Ghana Territory, as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries of the Kenya East Territory, with the rank of commissioner; Colonel Samuel on 1 September and Colonel Theresa on 2 September
LIEUT-COLONEL ONAI JERA , officer of the Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory, currently serving as Chief Secretary, Malawi Territory, will continue to give oversight to the Malawi Territory until new leadership is appointed Effective 1 December
LIEUT-COLONEL IREEN HACAMBA , officer of the Zambia Territory, as Chief Secretary, Ghana Territory
LIEUT-COLONELS BRENDA AND SHAWN CRITCH, officers of the Canada and Bermuda Territory, as Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development and Chief Secretary, Zambia Territory
Marriages
CAPTAIN HANNAH BORRETT AND YOUNG PEOPLE’S
SERGEANT-MAJOR MIKE WEBB at Gloucester on 28 July
SAM GREEN AND LAUREN SMITH at Swansea on 2 August by Lieutenant Paul Sass
Wedding anniversaries
Diamond (60 years)
JEFF AND MADELINE MORTON, Bath Citadel, on 14 August
Dedicated
to God
PEARL MARTINA OLATUNBOSUN, daughter of Charlene Gwatidzo and Toheeb Olalckan Olatunbosun, at Birmingham Citadel by Major Keely Standley
KLEO ELLISE SHEPHERD, daughter of Katie Priest and Lucas Shepherd, at Birmingham Citadel by Major Keely Standley
ELIS WILLIAM KERVIN, son of Lieutenant Elliot and Captain Megan Kervin, at Edinburgh Gorgie by Captains Emma and Les Heal
Promoted to Glory
PAULINE BALMER , Newcastle City Temple
KATHRYN DUGGAN, Newcastle City Temple
Bereaved
JOANNE BONE, Newcastle City Temple, of her mother Pauline Balmer
DEREK DUGGAN, Newcastle City Temple, of his wife Kathryn Duggan
HEATHER CAMPBELL , Staple Hill, of her father John Whitford
Retirements from active service
Effective 1 August
MAJOR ALEXANDER BISHOP out of Canvey Island in 1982 and Major Janet Bishop (née Southern) out of North Shields in 1990 and last appointment Sheringham
MAJOR TERESA HARRIS out of Barnstaple in 1984 and last appointment Tiverton
MAJOR JOANNA TODD (née Mays) out of Canterbury Temple in 1998 and last appointment Associate Officer, Ipswich Citadel
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Mon 11 Aug – Mon 25 Aug Furlough
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 30 Aug East Midlands DHQ (installation of divisional leader)
NOTICES
The Big Connection: Order your War Cry issue
The 6 September issue of War Cry will showcase the variety of projects the Big Connection appeal can help fund. The edition is undated so you can use it at any time to support your events and activities. To order extra copies, email subscriptions@satcol.org or call 01933 445 445 by 21 August.
Artists’ Corner
Have you made a piece of art, a drawing, a collage or something else creative that’s inspired by your faith? We’d love to share it in our Artists’ Corner! Get in touch with us at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Territorial Music School student Naomi Blowers (Staple Hill). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Me and My Playlist
This Salvationist Radio show sees a young person linked to The Salvation Army share five tracks they love. This month’s episode – recorded at Territorial Music School – features Paige Sharp (Oshawa Temple, Canada and Bermuda Territory). Listen to the podcast and Spotify playlist each month.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
Fully Scored
In the latest episode of the Music Editorial team’s podcast, three special guests join Matthew Frost to discuss the music of the first decade of the new millennium: Stephen Cobb, Andrew Blyth and Kevin Norbury all give their unique perspectives. A special edition of Bandmastermind and Fully Scored News complete the episode.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
Morning Praise with Kids Alive!
Get your day started with half an hour of music, prayer, a thought and lots of giggles! Listen on Saturdays from 7.30am to 8am. Can’t tune in on Saturday morning? The broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 9am and Mondays at 7.30am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Sunday Wake-Up with Lyndall Bywater
Ease yourself into the day with a relaxed mix of music, chat and a few inspirational moments to stir your soul. Listen from 7am to 9am on Sundays.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
AFTER being prayed over by the fellowship, Helen Murgatroyd, Phoebe Allen and Anne Black were enrolled as soldiers by then corps leader Major Michael Allen. Each was dedicated in prayer by Richard Taggart – who led recruit classes – before they testified to the presence of Christ in their lives bringing them to this point in their continuing discipleship, and their trust in him for the future. – MA
ANUOLUWAPO Ogunlade was welcomed as an adherent by then corps leader Major Paul Knight and the congregation. Anuo has been attending worship since she moved into the area last year. Major Paul prayed with her and presented her with the gift of an Amplified Bible and commentary. – PK
LEAMINGTON SPA
DAVID Lyons has been a supporter and part of the fellowship since 2019. Corps leader Captain Sarah Johnson invited him to join and, after attending this year’s Mission Conference, David felt he wanted to become a member. It was Captain Sarah’s pleasure to welcome him as an adherent. Also pictured is David’s spiritual mentor, Major Norman Ord. – SJ
CHESTERFIELD
GEMMA Beecham, Abdul Turay and Olivia Kandira were enrolled as soldiers by then corps leaders Captains Carl and Elizabeth Di-Palma. Carl Davidson renewed his Soldier’s Covenant. – CD-P
ON Pentecost Sunday, Maimie, Karin, Esther and Louise were welcomed as adherents by corps leaders Majors Debbie and Matthew Bennett, supported by family and friends. Corps members read a chosen verse of Scripture for each of them and, in a question-and-answer style testimony time, each expressed the welcome and sense of belonging they experience at the corps as they participate in activities and events. We praise God for all he is doing. – MB
WOOD GREEN
O THE JOY OF GETTING OTHERS TO CLIMB WITH
... CALVARY-LOVE HAS MADE THE STAIR A VERY WIDE ONE