Salvationist 16 February 2019

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1692 Price 60p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 16 February 2019

PLUS A LIFE OF FAITHFUL SERVICE

T CONTENTS

Quotes from the media

3

News

4 to 7

Letters

8

Review On The Altar – The Call To Be A Living Sacrifice

9

reviewed by Major Peter Mylechreest

Reflection Creative intelligence

9

by Peter Cooke

Preview I Exploring Leadership Day Your next ‘yes’

10 and 11

by Simon Hope

Interview A life of faithful service

12 and 13

Major Georgina Atkinson talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

ICO feature God's way with me

14 and 15

Bible study Be on your guard

16 and 17

by Major Steve Dutfield

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

New commitments

18 and 19

Announcements Adverts

‘LEADERSHIP can mean different things to different people,’ says Major Liz Chape in the feature about the Exploring Leadership Day on pages 10 and 11.

Delegates to this event will have an opportunity to find out what leadership could mean for them, whether in full-time spiritual leadership, in corps life or at work.

In our quarterly ‘God’s way with me’ feature on pages 14 and 15 three delegates who have just attended the International College for Officers share their experiences.

Coming from contrasting cultures, leadership has inevitably meant something different for each of them.

On pages 12 and 13 Major Georgina Atkinson, who recently celebrated her 105th birthday, reflects on her life and service. Becoming an officer in 1935 means her experiences of leadership may have been different from people’s experiences today.

Changes in church leadership styles over the years was the subject of an article I read a few years ago. It said that up to the 1960s the ‘military commander’ style predominated: leadership was ‘top-down’ and authority was not often questioned.

By the late 1960s, however, society was changing and there was less deference towards those in authority. The new leadership image was that of the chief executive officer (CEO) who had to cast a vision and persuade people to follow it.

In the 1980s the entrepreneurial style of leadership developed, characterised by innovation, creativity and pioneering. By the 1990s the leader was more often seen as a coach who helped people find the role that would make best use of their strengths and skills.

The writer of the article thought the coach style still predominated but also saw a new kind of leader emerging: the poet/gardener. As poets create works that can express or resonate with people’s thoughts and feelings, so poet-leaders articulate the thoughts of those they lead. It’s not just the leader’s ideas that count but the ideas that the Holy Spirit inspires in others. And, as gardeners cultivate the soil to create an environment where plants can grow, the gardener-leader develops, equips and empowers people.

Interestingly, Natural Church Development research supports the poet/gardener style. It indicates that a key characteristic of healthy and growing churches is ‘empowering leadership’. Church members are not there to help leaders attain their own visions and goals; instead, leaders assist others to attain the spiritual potential God has for them – to equip, support and motivate them – as they work together to fulfil God’s purpose.

Another fascinating thought from the article was the suggestion that leadership is partly about the way God has made us and partly about adapting ourselves to our environment. So, if anyone thinks they’re a military commander or a CEO by nature, but are in a situation that needs them to be a poet/gardener, they’ll have some adapting to do!

Leadership does indeed mean different things to different people. And it’s not just about those in leadership roles. Anyone who has influence over others is a leader, even if they don’t have the badge to prove it. As John C. Maxwell said: ‘Everyone is a leader because everyone influences someone.’

Understanding what leadership means for us, whoever we are and wherever we are, is part of the challenge of living fruitfully as disciples of Jesus.

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The Salvation Army and me featuring Ali Pearson

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

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UNDERSTANDING LEADERSHIP

Salvationist 16 February 2019

From the Editor, Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

BIBLE’S SEXISM DEBATED A new podcast led by an influential BBC reporter is to discuss Bible texts that portray violence – including rape – against women.

talks to feminist scholars and will ask whether giving voice to these ancient victims opens up the means whereby the stories of today’s victims can be heard and validated.

‘TRY PRAYING’ CAMPAIGN REACHES US AND AUSTRALIA

The series is available at biblesociety.org.uk/shetoo.

A small charity in Scotland is running an advertising campaign in the UK, the United States and Australia to encourage people to ‘try praying’, using the strapline, ‘It’s easier than you think’.

Rosie Dawson said her new sevenpart series… is looking at the stories that have come under fresh scrutiny in the wake of the #MeToo movement.

The texts include the story of Hagar, the Egyptian slave of Abraham and Sarah; and Tamar, the daughter of King David who was raped by her half-brother.

Entitled #SheToo, the series

The Church of England Newspaper

PRESSURE ON GOVERNMENT TO REPEAL VAGRANCY ACT The government is facing mounting pressure to repeal a ‘draconian and outdated’ Georgian-era law used to criminalise thousands of homeless people each year for sleeping and begging on the street.

Charities and politicians of all stripes have laid out their opposition to the Vagrancy Act, which was controversial even when rolled out in 1824.

The Labour Party adopted its abolition as policy in December 2018, and charities Centrepoint, St Mungo’s and Crisis have called for an end to the law, which was described in parliament… as ‘a cruel and outdated piece of legislation’ by Layla Moran, a Liberal Democrat MP who has been campaigning for its repeal since February 2018…

The ‘try praying’ initiative was set up eight years ago by David Hill, founder of the charity There is Hope, and has been running ever since, in churches and through bus advertising, to prompt people to pray. Last year analysis for the charity by a market research agency suggested that 32 per cent of those who saw the adverts began to pray afterwards.

This year the charity is trying to raise £100,000 to expand bus advertising across the whole of Scotland in April.

A $60,000 donation is paying for the campaign to be launched in parts of the US.

[She said:] ‘Government should listen to those on the front line.’

The charity also produces short, sevenday prayer guides, which are aimed at non-churchgoers, and are available as a booklet or through an app.

The Independent

Church Times

CAMPAIGNERS CALL FOR TRANSPORT OVERHAUL TO TACKLE POLLUTION Campaigners have called for free bus travel and the reopening of hundreds of miles of railway lines to end reliance on cars, as transport is due to be confirmed as the UK’s

SALVATIONIST (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – (tel) 020 7367 4892 Major Tony Button – (tel) 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey DTP DESIGNER Hannah Holden – (tel) 020 7367 4883 DTP OPERATOR Mark Knight – (tel) 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

largest contributor to greenhouse gases.

Official data… is expected to confirm transport as the most polluting sector, largely driven by cars. It outstripped energy for the first time in 2016, with annual emissions of about 125 million tonnes of CO2.

This figure has barely changed since 1990.

Friends of the Earth said there

ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4895 (email) advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH (tel) 01933 445445 (option 1) (fax) 01933 445415 (email) subscriptions@sp-s.co.uk TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101 Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Grange Ltd, Southwick. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. 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.

ISSN 2516-5909

needed to be a ‘radical reimagining of transport’ to bring about a 20 per cent reduction in car journeys, even with a faster switch to electric cars, to meet climate change targets.

The group said free bus travel, costing £3 billion a year, would

also help address public health concerns around air quality and obesity.

The Guardian

SALVATIONIST ONLINE Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline Find Salvationist on Twitter twitter.com/@SalvationistUK

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

Salvationist 16 February 2019

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NEWS

The Ayr community gospel choir, YP Band and Dalmellington Town Band give a concert in Ayr Town Hall, raising £3,650 shared by the corps and the North Ayr TheGither Project

Devon and Cornwall launches divisional band LAUNCESTON WITH a flurry of applications in advance, the first challenge of the brand new divisional band was to find a suitable location. In switching to Launceston Town Hall, the Divisional Play Day enabled the band of 56 musicians – comprising players from a variety of corps as well as two town bands – to meet and spend time in music and fellowship.

Bandmaster Peter Woolway (Exeter Temple), Regional Specialist for Music and Creative Arts Dean Jones (Newport 4

Service Centre) and Retired Bandmaster Kenneth Downie took turns putting the musicians through their paces. With a spirit of unity and encouragement, the group responded with distinction to a cross-section of repertoire.

Leaving with a spring in their step from the uplifting sounds of ‘Montreal Citadel’, the musicians were sent back their own settings with a blessing to ‘join the crescendo’, inspired by Psalm 150. – D. J. At the age of 88, corps pianist Norman Taylor, an accomplished musician and composer, has retired from active duty at Farnworth

Ayr corps officer Major Linda Watson takes a wintry dip in the Firth of Clyde, supported by corps folk, friends and family, raising £1,150 towards the Big Collection

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Salvationist 16 February 2019

Members of nearby churches gather at Eston, as part of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, joining together individual prayers to make a prayer ribbon long enough to surround the entire congregation

Rough sleeper count is underestimated THQ

Songsters launch centenary celebrations SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD COMMISSIONER Keith Banks led the songster centenary celebration weekend with guests Songster Leader Hayley Stubbs and her son Harry (both Derby Central). They are pictured with Songster Leader Andrew Mair.

The Saturday evening At Home meeting was a relaxed event with the songsters taking part and solos from Hayley (vocal) and Harry (euphonium).

Leading the Sunday morning prayer meeting, the commissioner encouraged those present to imitate Moses by removing their shoes and acknowledging the holy ground on which they stood.

The Power of the Song was the theme for the holiness meeting, when a number of the commissioner’s lyrics were used, including the chorus ‘Lord, How I Love You’, to which verses had been added and were sung by Hayley. Harry testified and played the euphonium solo ‘Compelled By Love’. A certificate of appreciation was presented to Shirley Pemberton, acknowledging her 23 years as songster secretary.

The music sections supported the guests for the final meeting, with present and former members of the songsters singing ‘To God Be The Glory’ led by the commissioner. – R. B.

Charlie Green wows audience HEREFORD MORE than 150 people enjoyed an evening with Charlie Green.

The first half, with the theme Rat Pack, contained songs from the shows.

Charlie spent the interval chatting with members of the audience, his personality and gracious spirit shining through.

REPORTED in the recently published Rough Sleeping Statistics Autumn 2018, the total number of people estimated to have slept rough in England on a single night was 4,677, representing an increase of 165 per cent since 2010.

The Salvation Army does not believe that these figures give an accurate picture of people experiencing homelessness and those sleeping rough, and that they are likely to represent an underestimation of the real figure. It believes a much clearer figure of the actual numbers would emerge if the government would respond to the Army’s urging to consider using something similar to the Combined Homelessness and Information Network for the whole country, which monitors the actual levels of rough sleeping in London all year round.

The Army is also concerned that the government’s rough

sleeping strategy receives adequate funding in order to bring it to fruition. As with many other service providers, it is awaiting the outcome of the Fair Funding Review, which will be used to determine how much funding local authorities will have to tackle rough sleeping from 2020 onwards.

Rough sleeping is dangerous and when temperatures are close to freezing The Salvation Army will be working with other organisations and volunteers to run night shelters giving rough sleepers somewhere safe to stay overnight. The Army will also be opening beds at its residential Lifehouses to increase the capacity for people who need them.

Drop-in services that offer meals, showers, laundry facilities, access to medical attention and advice services are also available.

Anyone who is concerned about rough sleeping can download and use the free StreetLink app that helps to ensure that people who are experiencing homelessness can be connected with services quickly and directly. – A. R.

Changing into his Army uniform for the second half, Charlie gave a beautiful rendition of ‘What A Friend We Have In Jesus’.

Interviewed by a member of the corps, Charlie told the audience about his spiritual journey alongside his musical career. His priority is to follow where God leads and remain true to himself.

He described singing at the Royal Albert Hall for the Army as a highlight of his life. – M. P. Salvationist 16 February 2019

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NEWS

Migrant caravan receiving Salvation Army support MEXICO AN estimated 10,000 people from Central America have arrived at, or are approaching, the USA-Mexico border after travelling through Mexico. While some have crossed into the USA seeking asylum, several thousand others have congregated in the northern city of Tijuana, where The Salvation Army and other aid agencies are providing essential services.

The caravan started almost 2,800 miles away in Honduras where the vast majority of its members originate, but its numbers have grown as it has travelled north, with people from El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua joining. Most of the people are fleeing extreme poverty, gang violence and a lack of employment. The caravan gave an opportunity to travel with others, providing safety in numbers. Along the way, various communities, including some Salvation Army centres, have

provided food, drink and shelter.

Most of the migrants plan to seek asylum in the USA, but almost 1,800 of the original group have already sought asylum in Mexico.

In Tijuana, which is home to a substantial transient Mexican population seeking refuge in the USA, The Salvation Army is supplying 2,000 backpacks and nearly 2,500 personal hygiene kits. Around 8,000 people will also be assisted with information and advice, access to legal aid, help with identification

documentation and the paperwork associated with the legal aspects of registering for asylum.

Practical issues such as the need for cooking facilities and clothing are also being addressed.

The Salvation Army operated two shelters in the city prior to the present crisis. The men’s shelter accommodates 120 people with a small extension soon to be commissioned. The women’s shelter provides 27 places.

Outreach services support approximately 8,000 people with

food and other items. Many of the migrants are disorientated and emotionally affected by having felt compelled to leave their homes and familiar surroundings.

Co-ordinating with other stakeholders, The Salvation Army is further enhancing its humanitarian response in the region by providing greater availability of access to social workers and psychologists, and by offering spiritual assistance where requested. – A. R. BOURNE: The young people’s weekend began with a bowling night for the young people and their leaders. Captains Sara and Wayne Duffy (chaplains, Glasgow Homelessness Services) led the morning meeting with the theme Love. Using the film Toy Story the captains were suitably attired as Woody and Jessie. Captain Sara presented the children’s prizes.

Pictured with the children are YPSM Heather Culshaw, Captains Sara and Wayne in costume and corps officers Captains Kevin and Wendy Brown. – C. G. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk

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Salvationist 16 February 2019

Phillip Baker is commissioned as bandmaster at Consett as his father, Jeff Baker, retires after almost 41 years of service; Jeff received letters of appreciation from territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill and Director of Music and Creative Arts Stephen Cobb (THQ)

at Tiverton Street, London

Wednesday 20 February between 10 am and noon

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STAPLE HILL: The Nexus Youth Choir (West Midlands Division) led a weekend of praise and worship. Among the many songs presented by the choir were ‘Glorious’ and ‘Almighty’. The Severn and Somerset Youth Chorus united with the choir to sing ‘This Is The Day’. The band supported, playing ‘Cry Of The Celts’ and, during a time of reflection, ‘Written In Red’. The evening raised more than £2,000 towards the Big Collection. The Sunday morning meeting included the choir singing ‘Humbly Bow’ and ‘You Are Always There’; at the conclusion several people prayed at the mercy seat. The host sections supported throughout the day, and the weekend concluded with the songsters uniting with the choir in singing ‘Praise His Holy Name’. – V. W.

On The Altar O Lieut-Colonel Jonathan L Roberts will be launching R and signing his new book a which looks at how the idea w of sacrifice is used in the o New Testament to describe some familiar aspects of the Christian life.

To Serve, for adults A new resource for adults considering becoming soldiers or adherent members.

New stock of red shield blouses and shirts at a 25 per cent discount Free children’s Goody Bags with the opportunity to win a free bear

DUNSTABLE: Set in Paris, in 1900, a murder mystery evening was held as part of a Just for Fun series. Cast members and guests were invited to guess who had murdered the world-renowned chocolatier, Billy Bonka. Poor acting, dodgy accents and an opportunity to dress up all contributed to an evening of fun and fellowship for members and people linked to the corps. – S. B.

Refreshments available

SP&S London Shop 1 Tiverton Street, London SE1 6NT (nearest railway or underground station Elephant and Castle)

Salvationist 16 February 2019

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LETTERS

THE MESSAGE MUST BE UNDERSTOOD RON Thomlinson (Salvationist 26 January) makes a valid point when he says: ‘Repetition of old and often much-loved phrases and songs never saved anyone.’

The same applies to music, particularly brass music. A newcomer to the Army once asked me why the band had played ‘Home On The Range’ after

the morning meeting. The musicians hadn’t done so – they had played ‘Come, Beautiful Christ’.

Meeting leaders are often heard in our meetings announcing that ‘we will now hear the message from’ whatever music section is about to contribute.

But unless the point of the piece is received and understood by all present, can it be considered a message?

Howard Sercombe, Major, St Ives, Cambridgeshire

A MOVING EXPERIENCE I READ with interest the letter from Stan Redfearn (Salvationist 5 January) regarding the homeward voyage of General and Mrs Carpenter to Australia in 1947.

In April of that year I was in the RAF stationed in Bombay (now Mumbai) attending Byculla Corps, meeting in the Jubilee Hall. It was announced that, as the Carpenters’ ship would be staying in port for ten days, they would be conducting meetings in Byculla and, the second Sunday, up country at Poona Central (now Pune).

The General told me he well remembered, when in office, visiting Letchworth where his son and daughter-in-law (Captain George and Mrs Olive Carpenter) were stationed. That day the General officiated at the dedication to God of his grandson and at the retirement of the CSM. Before they resumed their voyage, the Carpenters invited us servicemen to spend an evening with them at the home of Territorial Commander LieutCommissioner Mrs Moffatt. We shared happy memories and concluded by singing some of the old holiness songs. The General commended us all to God and, as we left, it was apparent that there was not a dry eye in the house.

Desmond Rix, Letchworth

IN PRAISE OF OLD RECORDINGS ON reading two letters (Salvationist 2 February), I could not help but feel the similarity between them.

I am also elderly, disabled and housebound and find great enjoyment in tuning in to YouTube every morning to listen to Salvation Army recordings, many dating back even e earlier than the 1950s. I know k that many Army musicians are a aware of this service, so it would w be a nice idea if they could seek out any disabled people in their community and enable them to again share the wonderful messages that these older recordings give.

I use the service for my own morning and evening devotions and always feel God’s nearness as I listen.

David Paget, Cardiff 8

Salvationist 16 February 2019

HOW CAN WE IMPROVE? I WAS interested to read the comments made by David Newstead concerning Fit for Mission (Salvationist 19 January).

Like many Salvationists I am aware that the UKI Territory might not be in a healthy condition. Also, like many Salvationists, I have only a hazy idea of what that actually means. Would it be possible for the leadership to offer a clear and detailed statement of our present situation?

This would open up opportunities for debate and allow us all to become aware of what changes are likely to be necessary in order to give us the healthy and growing Salvation Army that we long to see.

Christine Barrett, Bournemouth

OUR SONGS SHOULD BE ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE THE saying, ‘Why should the Devil have all the best tunes?’, while not originated

by William Booth, is closely linked to him, as he would frequently use popular music hall tunes of the day to make Christian songs and hymns accessible to all.

‘Champagne Charlie’ (‘Bless His Name’) and ‘Here’s To Good Old Whisky’ (‘Storm The Forts Of Darkness’) are probably two of the best known. We are, of course, less able to do this today because of copyright laws.

Religious songs of old, rather than having music specifically written for them, were usually set to popular folk tunes of the day. Many of Charles Wesley’s hymns were originally sung not to what is familiar to us, but to tunes which, now, sound dire.

A final point: more than a few of our traditional carols contain much of what can be described as dubious theology, for example ‘We Three Kings’ or ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’.

As ever, the important thing is to proclaim the message and, if we do so in an entertaining way that catches people’s attention, all to the good.

Brian Lowndes, Major, Stoke-on-Trent

+ REVIEW

ALWAYS MORE TO LEARN Major Peter Mylechreest (Chaplain, THQ) reviews the book On The Altar – The Call To Be A Living Sacrifice by Jonathan Roberts with reflections

by Jayne Roberts

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ACRIFICE is not always a popular concept, but this book examines the wide range of self-giving acts undertaken by and for God and the good of others. There is an explanation of the various offerings outlined in the Old Testament and the purpose and methods involved in the fivefold sacrificial system. However, over time the system was abused because performing a ritual was not enough.

Repentance, heartfelt devotion and a sincere concern for others were also required.

The New Testament describes the self-giving and death of Jesus as a once-and-for-all sacrifice as he freely took upon himself the sins of the world;

it was an atonement that brings us into a right relationship with God. As his followers, we are now called to be ‘a living sacrifice’. Our offering is a response to salvation, not the cause of it.

Using Scripture, quotes from Christian writers and numerous illustrations, the author gives practical advice on how we can live sacrificial lives. Consideration is given to our prayerful relationship with Jesus; opening our hearts in praise; using our God-given capacities to serve; pointing people to Jesus by doing acts of compassion; a generosity that responds to his grace; and a Spiritinspired and empowered, relevant witness.

Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts’ reflections on the eight parts of the book are suitable for personal or group study.

Motivation and actions are pondered, as is our obedience to God. There are pertinent questions – some require soul-searching and others are a call to action. But whatever we discover in our contemplations, we are assured that we are loved and accepted by God. However, if we live for ourselves with

self-centred lives, we are neither free nor fully fulfilled. We need to place ourselves completely on the altar.

Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts writes: ‘We give ourselves in gratitude, in faith and in total dedication to the One who gave himself for us.’

Here are challenges for the new Christian as well as those wise enough to know there is always more to learn.

The book is well worth reading – and putting into practice!

On The Altar is available from SP&S priced £4.99 (plus postage and packing) or as an ebook from Amazon priced £3.99.

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CREATIVE INTELLIGENCE

by Peter Cooke

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WATCHED a stunning TV documentary that examined the possibility of the Earth being twice its present size. Would it matter? So strong would be the gravitational pull that we would hardly be able to take a step forward. Better, then, to leave it the size it is.

‘Would it matter if we were twice as tall as we are?’ we were next asked.

The same thing would happen for different reasons. The weight of the bones in our frame would be too great for us to carry; the heart would find it nearly impossible to pump blood up to the brain. Again, no change called for.

The programme considered the size and position of the moon in relationship with the Earth and found that these were ‘just right’ as well. If it

were bigger or closer the tides would be catastrophic in their effect. The same with the sun: a twice-as-big sun would bring a twice-as-long year, with twice-as-long seasons. Food production and processing would be affected.

All this made me think of a verse in Genesis where ‘God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good’ (Genesis 1:31 King James Version).

And it reminded me of the illustration used by William Barclay in his book, The Plain Man Looks At The Apostles’ Creed, in which he suggests that the idea of there not being some sort of creative intelligence behind the universe is like throwing up into space enough ‘movable type’ (this was in the days of movable type, obviously) to produce the whole of Encyclopaedia

Britannica and for it to come down in the form of that classic work of reference. It just wouldn’t happen.

Again, my thoughts went to a well-known thinker of a previous generation, Edith Sitwell, who had no time for any religious thought at all, until one cold, frosty morning, when she noticed frost patterns on a window pane. ‘And that started my belief in God,’ she said. ‘For it surely needs some kind of intelligent thought process to produce something so beautiful.’

Having established, then, the existence God, all we need to do is to persuade people that he longs to have a loving relationship with them.

PETER IS A SOLDIER AT UPPER NORWOOD Salvationist 16 February 2019

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PREVIEW Exploring Leadership Day

YOUR NEXT ‘YES’ Major Liz Chape shares with Simon Hope why the upcoming Exploring Leadership Day is for everyone

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PON hearing of an event called Exploring Leadership Day, some people might immediately disregard it as ‘not for me’. This might be for any number of reasons, like being too young, too old, too experienced or not experienced enough. In response, the Candidates Unit asks one question: ‘What will be your next “yes” to God?’ The day takes place annually at William Booth College (WBC) – this year on Sunday 17 March – and aims to equip delegates with an understanding of what leadership means to them. This free event is open to everyone linked to The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland.

Liz is eager to emphasise that the event is not just for potential officers.

‘It’s for anyone exploring how God might want to use them,’ she explains. ‘The day has, in the past, absolutely been part of people’s journeys towards officership or territorial envoyship, but it’s also been part of people’s journeys towards leadership at work and in the corps. It really is for anyone.

‘Wider than that, we want to create a space for those who are passionate about listening to God. They can come away from their normal responsibilities and listen to some good speakers from around the territory.’

This year’s speakers have a range of

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Salvationist 16 February 2019

perspectives and experiences and include local officers, cadets, corps officers, WBC staff and territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill, who will be leading worship and a seminar.

The 2019 theme, Be Obedient, follows on from last year’s theme, Be Available, as Liz explains: ‘Be Obedient fits with our “Be” themes.

The Candidates Unit has the overarching theme of Be The Change. Last year that expressed itself as Be Available and this year it follows on naturally to Be Obedient. It can stand alone, so whether people were here last time or not, it doesn’t matter, there will be something for everyone.’

This year’s eight seminars will give delegates opportunities to deepen their understanding of leadership in a variety of contexts. ‘I think leadership can mean different things to different people,’ says Liz, ‘but, when talking about Exploring Leadership Day, we’re asking what it means to you. What might God be saying to you about leadership within the Church? And are we listening to that and responding?

‘We’re also asking how we prepare

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This year’s eight seminars will give delegates opportunities to deepen their understanding of leadership in a variety of contexts

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ourselves to be effective in leadership.

How do we build ourselves? How do we ground ourselves? And how do we use the resources that God has given us to be effective in what we do for him?

‘Some of the seminars will be similar to last year, but we have a number of new ones for 2019, like Leading Churches For Cyborgs. This will explore leadership in the digital age. We’re also holding a seminar about intentional conversations – which will ask how we make our conversations meaningful – as well as a session on how we ensure that we’re using our spiritual gifts effectively.’

In this way, Exploring Leadership Day is as much for experienced leaders as it is for novices. ‘While the day is about what leadership might mean for you, it’s also about how you can explore who you are within your leadership,’ Liz affirms. ‘So even if you’re already in a leadership role, there are still things that you can discover and develop about what that leadership looks like.’

The same applies to returning delegates. ‘We’re always developing, always learning,’ Liz continues, ‘and that doesn’t stop – it shouldn’t stop!

Delegates will have had months of new experiences and new opportunities, so they’ll take part in a slightly different way and perhaps hear things or explore

has used it to speak to me in joyful times and when things get tough.

God used the day to open my eyes to how he had been working in my life and, on that day, I felt so sure that God had placed me where I was. I had found my spiritual home. He had led me to the Army and he was calling me to something more.

things in a new way.’

So, whether you are exploring what leadership means to you for the first time, returning to develop yourself in a new way or answering the call to officership or envoyship, what will be your next ‘yes’ to God? Get your ticket now for Exploring Leadership Day on 17 March by visiting eventbrite.co.uk and searching for Exploring Leadership Day

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DELEGATE TESTIMONIES James Pegg, Wellingborough EXPLORING Leadership Days at William Booth College are always special and significant – 2018 was no exception! Although some wintry weather tried to dampen the occasion, the day was Spirit-filled, with inspiring worship and the chance to be with others who were exploring God’s calling.

Part of the day that impacted me most was a talk by Major Maria Konti-Galinou (Nunhead). She spoke about lessons she learnt in her leadership, particularly

while establishing the work of The Salvation Army in Greece. She shared the challenges she faced during the refugee crisis and how she was able to lead the Army to meet the physical and spiritual needs of thousands of people arriving each day. The key message was to observe what’s going on, pray about what’s happening and then act on it! This lesson is something I can take forward with me as I reflect on my present and future leadership within The Salvation Army.

Hannah Potter, Addlestone AFTER starting to worship at Addlestone only a few months earlier, Exploring Leadership Day 2017 was the first big Salvation Army event I went to. I thought I would be overwhelmed and terrified but it was a truly blessed day, and I was challenged by the Be A Hero branding to consider my individual calling and how I should respond.

Being new to the Army, I didn’t know many of the songs, but one in particular – ‘He Is Able’ – spoke to me. The song has stuck with me ever since, and God

Craig Bates, Portsmouth Citadel I HAVE been to two Exploring Leadership Days, and both have been a source of encouragement and conviction in exploring God’s call on my life. The workshops were brilliant as they explored different aspects of leadership within the Church and, throughout all of them, we were encouraged to share our experiences and views in an open environment.

At my second Exploring Leadership Day, I attended workshops focused on officership and what it’s like to be a cadet. These were a real encouragement to me, and God used the discussions to reaffirm his calling.

Exploring Leadership Day has been a valuable experience for me, and I would encourage anyone involved in or considering leadership to go along. I’m grateful to my DYS for getting me along to my first one and I’ll definitely be there again this year.

MAJOR LIZ CHAPE IS ASSISTANT TERRITORIAL CANDIDATES DIRECTOR, WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE Salvationist 16 February 2019

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INTERVIEW

A LIFE OF FAITHFUL Major Georgina Atkinson talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts about her life and service

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FEW weeks ago family and friends gathered with Major Georgina Atkinson to celebrate her 105th birthday. Still living independently and doing her own shopping and cleaning, and still attending Boscombe Corps, Georgina is a remarkable person. She entered official retirement in April 1979 but, pointing to the retirement certificate on her wall, insists: ‘That’s out of date. I’m still an officer!’ Indeed she is – and the oldest officer in the UK. Born in Trieste, Italy, on 31 January 1914, Georgina first encountered The Salvation Army at the age of 12. ‘What attracted me to the Army was the preaching and singing,’ she recalls.

‘I went to Sunday school in the Lutheran Church but there was a group of us youngsters there who were enthusiastic about this new evangelical opening and went to help them out. Because the hall was very small they had to have the meetings with the doors wide open, and the street was packed with people singing. My mother said, “I’m going to pass by one day. I want to see for myself.” When she came home, she said, “You can go there”.’

Although Georgina doesn’t remember ever being enrolled as a soldier – ‘I just put on somebody’s uniform and they looked at me and said they’d never seen a uniform to fit so nicely!’ – she was a candidate helper at Trieste for three years before becoming a cadet in 1935.

‘There were seven of us in the session,’ she remembers. ‘We were trained in Rome by the headquarters officers, for a fortnight only. Then, the day I turned 21, I was made an officer, given my yellow trimmings and sent to my first appointment, to Turin.’

A number of corps appointments 12

Salvationist 16 February 2019

Georgina in the Red Shield Services, 1944

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They had to have the meetings with the doors wide open, and the street was packed with people singing

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followed before The Salvation Army was closed down when Italy joined the Second World War in June 1940.

Georgina was stationed at Naples at the time. ‘Major Riccio was the commanding officer and I was second in charge,’ she says. ‘The police made us all promise not to meet with one another and came to the hall to confiscate songbooks and Bibles. They would come to the quarters every day so they could confiscate our post and other things. They wanted Major Riccio and me to go back to our home towns. So we went out in the morning, roamed around Naples and came home again when it was dark.

Eventually I travelled home on a train accompanied by seven policemen, just in case I would escape!’

Back home in Trieste Georgina did voluntary work in an old people’s home until late 1943 when she spotted a Salvation Army red shield van in the

Georgina and Matthew, 1975

town. She decided to offer her services at the nearest red shield centre, which was in Mestre, near Venice. ‘I went and told them who I was,’ she says, ‘and they said they needed someone to deal with the personnel.’ She managed the Italian staff and, with her smattering of English, was able to bridge the communication gap between them and the red shield officers.

In 1946 Georgina met her future husband, Captain Matthew Atkinson, who took charge of the Mestre red shield canteen. He originated from Portadown in Northern Ireland and had become a Salvation Army officer in 1937 before serving in the military during the war. Then, becoming an officer again, he joined the Red Shield Services.

Georgina recalls how they met: ‘He took ill while he was at Mestre and I was asked to take him his meal. That was the beginning!’

SERVICE

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Soon after Matthew’s promotion to Glory in September 1978 Georgina entered retirement, but she carried on working in the post room, arriving at 7 am each morning to wait for the postman Matthew moved on after only a fortnight but spent three years with the Red Shield Services before returning to the UK as a corps officer. Georgina was sent to Rome when the corps reopened, but during those three years they continued courting by post. ‘I improved my English through courtship, through the letters,’ she says. ‘I had a few English lessons at school. I didn’t really like it but the Lord knew what lay ahead!’

Georgina and Matthew only met again when she came to the UK to marry him in 1949, joining him in their first married appointment at Lisburn. Other appointments in Northern Ireland followed before a transfer to Italy in 1952 and a return to the UK two years later, with appointments in Scotland, Wales and England over the next twenty years. As well as serving in busy corps appointments they brought up

four children; there are now six grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren.

In 1974 Matthew became the reception officer at the National Headquarters of the British Territory before transferring to the International Headquarters Public Relations Department. Georgina went to work in the IHQ post room.

Soon after Matthew’s promotion to Glory in September 1978 Georgina entered retirement, but she carried on working in the post room, arriving at 7 am each morning to wait for the postman. She then worked in the Public Relations Department and the Africa Department before finishing her time at IHQ aged 77.

During her years at IHQ Georgina soldiered at Croydon Citadel, then moved to Bournemouth in 1994 where she quickly became involved in corps

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life at Boscombe, joining the home league singers, helping in the charity shop and leading the Bible study, which she did for ten years.

Underlined in Georgina’s Bible are some words of Jesus to the disciples: ‘It is I; be not afraid’ (Matthew 14:27 King James Version). ‘It’s very short,’ she says, ‘but it goes with me everywhere; it always did.’ She explains what the words mean to her: ‘It’s not always easy.

When things come and you say, “Lord, why?” He says, “It is I; be not afraid.”

When there’s nobody else there, just you with your own thoughts, sometimes in the middle of the night, he says, “It is I”.’

Looking back over the years, Georgina knows that the assurance of those words has helped her remain faithful, despite all the changes and challenges that have come her way, whether active or retired.

Salvationist 16 February 2019

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ICO FEATURE

MAJOR BARBARA BACKHAUS Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory

GOD’S WAY WITH ME Three delegates from the 240th session at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development share their testimonies 14

Salvationist 16 February 2019

REFUGEES BECAME A PART OF OUR LIFE MOHANAD, Wael, Hima, Moufak, Fadi, Osama, Hamudi, Bilal, Abed, Amin...

They could have been only anonymous figures on the TV screen in a refugee camp just out of Syria or on one of the crowded small boats on the Mediterranean Sea carrying refugees to Greece, but they made it to my country – Germany. They were brought to my city – Leipzig.

And, instead of being sent to one of the big refugee shelters, they were taken to our Salvation Army building.

There they stayed for several months, until they had permission to move to their own flat. We were reminded that God ‘defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing’ (Deuteronomy 10:18).

In March 2015, when we were thinking about how we could best respond to the refugee crisis, we received a phone call asking if we could accommodate a Syrian family of 13. They would come two days later and stay for three to four weeks. As we had spare room, including a kitchen and a bathroom, we said yes.

We bought mattresses, bedding, towels and food, and prepared three small bedrooms and a large room for them. Two days later we welcomed this family into our building. They were lovely people. The children loved playing in the backyard and riding on the bicycles that we got for them. About four months later they moved to their new home.

It was then that thousands of refugees from Syria came to Germany. Shelters were built in many towns. We told the town authorities that we could accommodate other refugees. A few days later 12 young men from Syria moved into our building – the same building my family lives in.

These refugees, who so many people refused to welcome, became a part of our life. Anonymous figures had faces and names. They told us about their lives and their escape from the war in their country. They showed us pictures on their mobile phones: destroyed

towns, their homes before and after the bombing, themselves sitting in one of the small crowded boats on the Mediterranean Sea. The TV I could have just switched off – but these refugees were here in our house. Young men who cried, because they had lost everything they had, including family members. They had left their families behind and did not know if they would ever see them again. They talked about their professions – cook, tailor, florist – or the studies they had to give up. We shared meals – we bought, they cooked – and we got them help to find their way through bureaucracy. We invited people from the neighbourhood to meet with them and us, but not many came.

Later that year we established a furniture hall. When refugees moved from the shelters to their own flats they could buy donated furniture at low prices. When they came to our thrift store they got a voucher so they could have the things they needed immediately, for free.

We met many refugees. But the ones who were living with us made us understand what being a refugee really meant.

CAPTAIN OMAR VENEGAS Mexico Territory GOD HAS BEEN GOOD TO ME WHEN I was ten years old I got to know the Salvation Army children’s home and I had the opportunity to hear about Jesus. I did not at this time understand salvation, so I did not give it much importance. I spent two years in the children’s home but found it hard, as I missed my grandmother, who was like a mother to me because she took her place.

From the age of 12 I started having very serious attitude problems, so The Salvation Army had to call my father and

sent me home. My attitude worsened.

I stopped studying and started making friends who were harming my life.

Even at that age I already had problems with alcohol, tobacco and witchcraft. For five years I fought with this until I could not resist any more and I had to leave my home. In my desperation the memory of the children’s home came to me and I thought, ‘There they will help me’.

When I arrived at the children’s home I was received by a captain. He was not the officer that I remembered from seven years before, so I had to explain that I had been there before. The captain kindly received me.

To my surprise, that first night I spent there was the first night I could sleep well. So the first thing I said the next morning was: ‘Nobody gets me out of here!’

Sometime later the captain received a change of appointment and I immediately offered my help. I struggled in the early days of this work but I thank God for Captains Ana and Manuel Campos who had the patience to guide me through this process of learning and maturing in the Christian life. Soon I received the news that I was accepted to be a cadet in the Crossbearers Session.

My first appointment was to open fire in Ciudad Victoria, a small city that is about 435 miles from Mexico City. I was there for one year and then had a new appointment as assistant officer in the Rio Bravo Division. It was while at this appointment that I met my wife. I had to make a decision and asked for permission to leave officership. During the following period, I had the opportunity to work for Tyco Fire and Security Services and then, in 2011, my wife was accepted for officership.

In July 2011 I had my third appointment, as Director of the Department of Information Technology.

In 2014 I was moved to be the Territorial

Secretary for Information Technology. In 2018 I received a new appointment as Territorial Property Secretary.

I thank God because he has been good to me. He has taken care of me and supported me. I have a nice family: my wife, Captain Elena Venegas, my daughters, Iran and Katherine, and my son, Omar.

I am still preparing myself for the new challenges that the Lord has for my life.

God bless you all!

MAJOR INOS NAYAK India Northern Territory I FELT ABLE TO PUT MYSELF IN GOD’S HANDS I AM very grateful to God for this opportunity to witness to the wonderful blessings I have received from him from the beginning of my life, even though I did not know his plans for my future.

From an early age I was very much interested in church activities, and enjoyed my Sunday school, youth meetings and church services.

When I finished my BA Education studies, and at just the right time, I received the call to serve God as an officer in The Salvation Army. I did not know where I should go for training but my elder sister encouraged me on this path; sadly she is not alive now.

I entered the training college in 2000 as a cadet in the Crossbearers Session.

I did not know much about officership and its requirements, but from the day I received the call of God I felt able to put myself in his hands through continuous prayer and to give my life for his service.

I thank God for my parents who willingly dedicated me and supported me through prayers.

I have experienced God’s presence throughout my life, in all my appointments as an officer. I have learnt the constant love and presence of God in my life when my first priority has been to study the word of God, exercising my faith and my prayer life to establish good spiritual foundations. I earnestly thank my leaders who support me and pray for me.

I recall these words each day and pray that God will help me…

All my work is for the Master, He is all my heart’s desire; O that he may count me faithful In the day that tries by fire!

(SASB 672) Salvationist 16 February 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

BE ON YOUR

GUARD! Major Steve Dutfield highlights challenges in sharing the message of Jesus STUDY PASSAGE: ACTS 20:16–37

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T is reported that as Sir Winston Churchill was about to slip into a coma at the end of his life he uttered the words: ‘I’m bored with it all.’ Beethoven, in his last statement on this earth, said: ‘Applaud my friends, the comedy is finished.’ St David, in his final sermon, encouraged his listeners to ‘be joyful, keep the faith and do the little things you see me do’.

QUESTION If you wanted to leave some final words to those you might not see again, what would you say?

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As we consider this passage from Acts, we are given an insight into the priorities of the life of Paul and what he would like to pass on to the fledgling church in Ephesus.

Paul is clearly a busy man. He has, as we know, been up and down the coastline of the Eastern Mediterranean

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

by Major Howard Webber

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Salvationist 16 February 2019

and the Aegean Sea, criss-crossing the known world to spread the good news of the gospel.

Paul’s stay in some places had been short, but in others he had taken time to get to know the people, sharing with them on a daily basis. Ephesus was one of those places. No doubt, they had a special place in his heart.

However, Paul is ‘in a hurry to reach Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of Pentecost’ (v16).

Paul decides to sail past Ephesus rather than going into the city. If he was anything like me, Paul knew that a visit there, with lots of people to catch up with, would not have been quick. He, therefore, makes arrangements for some of the key leaders from Ephesus to meet him in Miletus, 30 miles or so down the road, to deliver his farewell speech. What a speech it is!

Paul speaks quite openly of the uncertain nature of the travels that lie ahead. He doesn’t know what will happen in Jerusalem, but he does know that prison and hardships are to be

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We are given an insight into the priorities of the life of Paul and what he would like to pass on to the fledgling church in Ephesus

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SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Be alert and of sober mind.

Your enemy the Devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

(1 Peter 5:8)

Leave no unguarded place,/ No weakness of the soul;/ Take every virtue, every grace,/ And fortify the whole.

(SASB 979)

‘Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.

The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.’

(Matthew 26:41)

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After such a dire warning, we get a glimpse into the humanity as well as the deep spirituality of Paul and his followers other record of Jesus saying this.

Nevertheless, this is an important reminder to them and to us, of the virtue of generosity in our lives as Christians.

Paul also warns them that there will be challenging days ahead for the church in Ephesus: ‘Savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them’ (vv29 and 30). These are strong words indeed – difficult words for them to hear and, surely, for us too! This is not some vague notion for them to be aware of, but a reality that they will certainly face.

There might even have been people present who would lead others astray.

QUESTIONS How would you feel if Paul was addressing this to your corps?

O Do you think this could ever be levelled at The Salvation Army?

O What would you do about it?

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wept as they embraced him and kissed him’ (v37).

They are going to miss him, and they have now been charged with ensuring that they are on their guard and that the message of the gospel, which has been entrusted to them, is going to continue without them seeing him in person again. Paul is OK with that. He knows that he cannot stay with them; there are other places to visit, other things to be done. He knows that he will probably never see them again, but he also knows that he has done all he can to give this new church a good start on their journey.

I am sure they will be thankful to Paul, but, as they too face an uncertain future, their faith in Jesus will be tested. How will they now respond to the challenges that lie ahead?

O

faced in the days to come. He reminds them of his credentials, of how he spent three years with them in humility, tested

by Jewish opponents, preaching the gospel of repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus.

He quotes the words of Jesus, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (v35), although, strangely, we have no

Finally, after such a dire warning, we get a glimpse into the humanity as well as the deep spirituality of Paul and his followers. This is truly a mature and heart-warming conclusion to what, no doubt, has been a difficult day. Despite, or perhaps because of, what Paul has said, he kneels and prays with them.

The elders’ response is evident as ‘all

QUESTIONS How do we deal with some of the difficult issues that we face in the day-to-day life of the Church?

O How do we express thanks to those who challenge us and encourage us as we move into the future?

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MAJOR DUTFIELD IS DIVISIONAL MISSION ENABLER, WEST SCOTLAND

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

To keep your armour bright/ Attend with constant care,/ Still walking in your captain’s sight/ And watching unto prayer.

(SASB 979)

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!

(1 Corinthians 10:12)

I want a godly fear,/ A quick-discerning eye,/ That looks to thee when sin is near,/ And sees the tempter fly;/ A spirit still prepared/ And armed with jealous care,/ For ever standing on its guard,/ And watching unto prayer.

(SASB 768)

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.

(1 Corinthians 16:13 and 14)

Prayer Lord Jesus, draw me closer to you. Make me alert and aware of the subtleties of Satan. Ensure that I have all my armour in place so as to prevent the tempter’s fiery darts from penetrating, causing me to turn from you by sinning.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

OPENSHAW: After worshipping at the corps for a number of years, Barbara decided to become an adherent member. She chose the songs ‘Reckless Love’ and ‘Good Good Father’, as they reflected her confidence in God’s care and Jesus’ saving sacrifice.

Barbara was welcomed by corps officer Captain Jane Bishton. – J. B.

WESTON-SUPER-MARE: Evelyn Laird felt God calling her back to the Army after many years attending another church. In order to obey the calling, Evelyn moved house to be nearer the corps, and was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Lindsey Toy. Also pictured is flag bearer Ryan Windget. – L. T.

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Salvationist 16 February 2019

LOCHGELLY: After more than 20 years as an adherent member, Margaret Howe was enrolled as a soldier by her son, Territorial Envoy Andrew Howe (Buckhaven).

Margaret is involved with the corps and made the commitment to become a soldier last year. Pictured with Margaret are corps officer Major Mary McDonald, Andrew, Margaret’s husband Divisional Envoy CSM John Howe and Sarah Gourdie, who is holding the flag. – M. M.

GREENFORD: Corps leader Divisional Envoy Kath Davison enrolled Emma Burnell, Sarah Bowden, Jaida Cassells, Kareena Virdi, Taneesha Virdi, Tyla Frances, Tia Frances and Shamila Virdi as junior soldiers. Also pictured are YP Treasurer Marjorie Barrett, Messy Church leader Beryl Phillips and young people who supported them.

Kath also welcomed Lee Burnell as an adherent member on Commitment Sunday. He linked up with the Army having been a junior soldier some years ago. – K. D.

DOUGLAS: Introduced to the corps by YPSM Jo Clague, Bob and Sylvia Hewitt were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Lieutenant Dylan Nieuwoudt.

Bob and Sylvia testified to the warm welcome they had received. – D. N.

IPSWICH CITADEL: Eve Bull was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Loes Palmer. – D. C.

NORTH WALSHAM: The hall was packed when 99-year-old Beattie Sandell was welcomed as an adherent member. Beattie loves attending Sunday meetings and the weekday luncheon club. Pictured with Beattie are corps officer Major Richard Durrant and Recruiting Sergeant Aux-Captain Brenda Singleton. – R. D.

SHOTTS: Rita Goldie and Jacqui Malone were first introduced to the Army through attending the coffee mornings and have been made to feel part of the corps family.

They were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Lieutenant Amy-Jo Battersby. Rita and Jacqui are pictured with their husbands and Amy-Jo. – A-J. B.

COWDENBEATH: Friends supported Karen Candlish and David Haldane when they were welcomed as adherent members. Karen enjoys attending weekly activities and regularly invites others to join her. Karen and David are pictured with corps officer Lieutenant Karen Thomas. – K. T.

Some photos removed

MARGATE: Andy Stapely has been enrolled as a soldier. Introduced to the Army when helping a soldier who found it difficult to get to meetings, Andy became involved in community outreach and became an adherent member. He felt that the time was right to commit to soldiership. Andy is pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Val Lunn and corps officers Majors Richard and Sarah Oliver. – L. C.

BOSTON: Hollie Edwards was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Gerald Nicoll. Hollie testified that this was an appropriate step in response to God’s call on her life. – G. N.

Salvationist 16 February 2019

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Blue Sapphire (65th) O Rtd Songster Ldr Harry and Songster Cissie Rankin, Cumbernauld (13 March)

PROMOTED TO GLORY O Commissioner Alan Coles from Clairleigh Nursing Home, Bromley, on 4 February O David Cobbold, Norton

DEDICATED TO GOD O Oliver George, son of Peter Robinson and Emily Pegg at Hinckley by Major Carol Evans

TRIBUTES

BEREAVED O Captain Sue Dean, Dartford, and Gillian Hoyle, Boscombe, of their mother Margaret Kendrew O Lieut-Colonel Ronald Smith, Major Michael Smith and Alan Smith of their mother Rtd HLS Catherine Aitchison Smith O Dora Hughes, Leeds Central, of her husband Gordon, Lieut-Colonel Beverley McCombe, THQ, Martin Hughes, Birmingham Citadel, Alison Hughes and Lindsey Clayton, both Leeds Central, of their father O Major Iris Clay of her sister Mary Spiers O Major Steven Todd of his brother Christopher Todd O Mrs Commissioner Brenda Coles of her husband Commissioner Alan Coles O Captain Janet Sebbage, Long Eaton, of her mother Rtd Songster Secretary Ruth Timms, Rosemary Trinder of her sister O Major Carol Lockhart of her mother Elsie Lockhart O David Alston, Sale, of his wife Eileen, Captain Heather Alston, Hadleigh Farm, of her mother O Pauline Annetts, Winton, of her husband B/Reservist Ivor

DEREK Foster was born in 1937 and, at the age of 11, began attending the Army at Sunderland Citadel with his mother.

Derek became fully involved in corps activities and was commissioned as singing company leader at the age of 16.

During National Service in the RAF Derek linked up with Blackpool Citadel and Birmingham Citadel, and during his studies at Oxford University attended Oxford Corps.

In 1972 Derek was elected to Sunderland borough council and then to the Tyne and Wear county council in 1973. From 1974 until 1976, he was chair of the North of England Development Council until his election as MP for Bishop Auckland in 1979.

After serving his constituency with distinction he was elevated to the House of Lords in 2005.

Derek was an active and valued member of the corps alongside his wife, Anne, whom he married in 1972.

He passed away peacefully, surrounded by Anne and several members of the family. – B. T.

DEREK FOSTER, SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE: O Canada and Bermuda Territory (Canadian Staff Band 50th anniversary weekend), Wed 27 Feb – Sun 3 Mar O Sunbury Court (International Moral and Social Issues Council), Mon 4 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM: O India Central Territory, Wed 6 Mar – Sat 9* THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL: O Harlow, Sun 17 Feb O Poole (Youth Makes Music), Fri 22 O Northampton (Intercultural Mission Conference), Fri 1 Mar – Sun 3 O Swanwick (homelessness conference), Mon 4 – Tu 5 O Ireland (divisional congress), Sat Sun 10 O Sunbury Court (five-year review of officership), Mon 11 O William Booth College (Design for Life), Sat 16 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES: O Poole (Youth Makes Music), Fri 22 Feb O East Midlands (divisional leaders retreat), Wed 27 – Fri 1 Mar O Yorkshire South with Humber (divisional officers retreat), Tu 5 – Th 7 *Chief of the Staff only

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Salvationist 16 February 2019

BERYL CROSS, ABERTILLERY BERYL was born in Treharris in 1935 and knew nothing of The Salvation Army until moving to Abertillery in 1975. As her husband was serving in the Merchant Navy and was at sea for long periods, a friend invited her to worship at the Army.

She later moved to Cwmbran but, when her husband died, she moved back to Abertillery and renewed her interest in the home league, over-60 club and lunch club, becoming a willing and active helper in these activities. At this time Beryl was attending the Sunday evening meetings, and in 2012 was welcomed as an adherent member.

She was a forthright character but she was sincere in her belief that God cared for her.

A fall at home necessitated a time in hospital, and then a recuperation hospital, from where Beryl was called to her eternal Home. – A. B.

JOHN STEVENS, STAPLEFORD JOHN was born in Balham, London, in 1935. His parents were Salvation Army assurance officers when they moved to Clapton Congress Hall, where John started his Army life.

John played euphonium in the band from the age of 8 to 80, when he had to retire because of ill health. He was also a songster and, for a time, songster leader and corps treasurer.

John met Joan at youth councils, and they were married in 1958 at Joan’s home corps of Romford.

In 1989, John and Joan moved to live near their daughter and soldiered at Stapleford where he continued his service in the band and songsters and was corps sergeant-major for 18 years.

John leaves his wife, daughter, son, four grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. – F. T. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 16 February 2019

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

We’ve asked various people to tell us about themselves. This week…

ALI PEARSON SP&S shop manager, Tiverton Street How did you first come into contact with the Army?

My parents were officers – they are retired now. I didn’t have much choice!

What made you want to become a Salvationist?

Following the crowd as a teenager, I wanted to join the songsters. Then I started ‘growing up’ and my relationship with God started changing. I am still in the songsters after 39 years, but I sing for the Lord and not just for my sake.

What is the most interesting thing about your job?

I love hearing our customers’ stories: how they linked up with the Army, their decision to become an adherent member or a soldier and how they’ve ended up in our shop buying a Salvation Army uniform. Some of the stories are amazing, and the challenges they have had to go through make me realise just how fortunate I am. … and the most frustrating?

I’d rather not say – my managing director reads Salvationist!

What one thing would you change about the Army?

It is not just the Army, but when people say, ‘It is not my job!’ and then are not bothered to find out whose job it is to help the person. Also, the pettiness – despite all the problems in our country and the world, someone came into the shop and moaned that the ‘e’ is too big on one of the red shields!

I love hearing our customers’ stories: how they linked up with the Army, their decision to become an adherent member or a soldier and how they’ve ended up in our shop buying a Salvation Army uniform If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play?

I would like to say Pretty Woman but that might raise a few eyebrows! However, a dashing, white knight coming to my rescue and us charging off together into the sunset – I wouldn’t say no.

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

The Queen Mum. I have always wanted to ask how she felt when she became queen after her brother-in-law abdicated.

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

If I can make one person smile today my day has not been wasted. Smile at strangers, it really worries them!

What is your favourite food?

Roast lamb and all the trimmings.

What do you do in your spare time?

I am a steward at Allianz Park, home of the Saracens rugby team.

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

My earliest memory was a school trip to Harrods. I wanted a Harrods carrier bag, so I bought the single ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ by Queen. I loved that record and it made me a fan of their music.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

Jeremiah 29:11: ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Over the next couple of years or so I will have to live by this verse and trust the Lord.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘God And God Alone’.

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

Cancer. I know there are many who have fought the disease and won but there are many who are still fighting. My heart goes out to the families who have lost loved ones to this terrible disease.

Did you have a nickname growing up?

Sunshine.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

All seven Harry Potter novels – if box sets count!

What do you consider to be the most valuable thing you possess?

My memories and photos. My husband was promoted to Glory too young; he was a victim of cancer. The time I had with him was too short, but I have my memories and photos of the years we had together.

Something interesting you might want to know about me is…

I have an NVQ level 3 in stewarding, crowd control and crowd safety. This qualification has given me the opportunity of working at Royal Ascot, Brighton Pride, large firework displays and many other places, including Southend Beer Festival!