Salvationist 16 November 2019

SALVATIONIST

No.1731 Price 70p

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 16 November 2019

Beyond the wall How The Salvation Army responded to the fall of the Berlin Wall

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

PREPARE FOR CLIMATE REFUGEES, CHURCH OF ENGLAND’S GREEN ADVISERS WARN Churches in the UK should make plans to house ‘climate refugees’, the C of E’s environmental advisers have urged.

The Church must also move much faster in its response to climate change, and aim to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The national Environmental Working Group (EWG), chaired by the Bishop of Salisbury, the Right Rev Nick Holtam… published a statement calling for immediate action to reduce the C of E’s carbon footprint, as well as manage its churchyards and agricultural land to improve biodiversity. The Church’s current goal is to achieve an 80 per cent reduction by 2050…

Bishop Holtam said… that the climate crisis was an issue ‘of such urgency that the whole Church needs to make it a priority’…

The EWG statement looks ahead to a time of crisis. ‘As the impacts of climate breakdown start to accelerate… we foresee an increasing need and opportunity for the churches to play a missional role in communities across the country.

‘Local churches can act as a catalyst in their community for carbon reduction initiatives and climate resilience strategies, as well as preparing to provide sanctuary in extreme weather events and for climate refugees from within and outside of the UK.’

WELFARE CHANGES DRIVE RISING POVERTY AND FOOD BANK USE, STUDY FINDS

JUST 18% OF BRITS SAY BIBLE RELEVANT TO THEM PERSONALLY

Welfare changes such as universal credit and the bedroom tax are a key factor in the sharp increase in food bank use and the re-emergence of extreme poverty in the UK over the past seven years, an academic study has concluded.

According to the research, there is ‘clear and robust evidence’ that people struggling… are pushed rapidly into destitution when their already tight budgets are broken by benefit payment delays, cuts, deductions or sanctions.

The study found five key welfare policies – the rollout of universal credit, increases in benefit sanctions, the bedroom tax, the benefits freeze and the withdrawal of disability benefits – had ‘sizeable and significant effects’ in pushing up demand for food parcels.

One in 50 UK households used a food bank in 2018-19, the study estimated.

A new study on what people in the UK think about God and the Bible has found only 18 per cent believe the Bible is relevant to them personally despite 40 per cent identifying as Christian.

The Bible Society surveyed nearly 20,000 people in what is thought to be the largest review of faith, values and attitudes to the Bible in England and Wales.

Chief executive of the charity Paul Williams told Premier the organisation conducted the research to get a better understanding of the spiritual views of the UK population and learn how to be ‘a mission partner to the British Church’.

The… report also found 61 per cent of those surveyed think it is good for children to know Bible stories while over half of adults believe the Bible shapes our culture.

Williams said these findings should encourage believers to evangelise.

The Guardian

Premier

ROYAL MAIL UNVEILS NATIVITY THEMED STAMPS FOR CHRISTMAS The biblical nativity story has been brought to life on this year’s Royal Mail Christmas stamps.

The set of six postage labels went on sale… for those wanting to get into the festive spirit.

The images on the stamps were created by paper-cut artists Hari and Deepti, who used layers of intricate paper and light-boxes to create three-dimensional scenes that bring the stories to life.

They include the three wise men following the star, animals looking at the baby Jesus in the manger and the angel appearing to the shepherds, as well as Mary holding her child.

Church Times

Evening Standard

SALVATIONIST

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

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Salvationist 16 November 2019

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

ISSN 2516-5909

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

Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline

Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS

DISMANTLING WALLS A COUPLE of years ago I had the opportunity to visit the Berlin Wall Memorial. A section of the wall still stood there, and farther along the street was the Window of Remembrance, displaying photos of the 140 people who died trying to cross over to the west of the city. It was a moving experience. It’s difficult to imagine how a city, and a nation, could be divided in that way, with families separated and lives disrupted for the 28 years of the wall’s existence.

While I was there I went into a nearby shop and bought what I was told was a genuine piece of the wall. It’s only a small piece, but it sits on my bookshelf as a reminder of how ideological differences can lead to physical separation.

Retired Salvation Army officer Major Rolf Metzger has a larger piece of the wall – and it’s definitely genuine, because he was there as the wall came down in 1989. On pages 12 and 13 he recalls those events and how the Army responded in the weeks and months that followed.

The fall of the Berlin Wall led to the reunification of Germany almost a year later and heralded the fall of the Soviet Union. That allowed The Salvation Army to move back into some countries where it had been banned and into others where it had never previously existed.

Today the Army is at work in several countries of the former Soviet Union. It is numerically small, has limited resources and faces huge challenges, but the faithfulness and determination of Salvationists there are to be admired.

A number of corps in this territory have been able to support their work in practical ways. Page 9 features an example, with a report about a group of young people from Tunbridge Wells that visited Latvia to help run summer camps for children. The young people provided positive experiences for the children, and seem to have gained as much as they gave.

Walls still divide people today, be they physical, social, political, religious or ethnic.

Differences are to be expected, but division needn’t be the result. During the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall last weekend, the National Chaplain to The Royal British Legion prayed for ‘our troubled world’ and said: ‘Grant us a renewed spirit of respect for one another.’ He hit the nail on the head: it’s a lack of respect that turns differences into division.

Major Val Mylechreest writes about the value of respect on page 15, and illustrates it with how refugee families have been welcomed by corps in her division as part of the community sponsorship scheme. She writes: ‘Living and loving with respect has provided a means of blessing for all those concerned.’

In Ephesians 2 Paul refers to the differences between Jews and Gentiles, but says that through the cross Christ ‘has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility’ (v14). Where walls of separation exist in our communities today, followers of Christ are called to dismantle them. Showing respect for others is a good way to start.

Quotes from the media

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News

4 to 8

News feature Youth on a mission

9

Feature God’s way with me

10 and 11

Feature 12 and 13 Rebuilding the Army in Berlin

by Major Rolf Metzger

Column from the college Lessons learnt in the summer

14

by Cadet Liam Beattie

Feature Values: Respect

15

by Major Val Mylechreest

Bible study Kingdom of justice

16 and 17

by Captain Mark Read

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Freda Benneyworth

New commitments

18 and 19

Announcements

20

Reviews The Mystery Of Matthew Gold

21

reviewed by Linda McTurk

A Gowans Legacy Volume 2 reviewed by Lieut-Colonel Trevor Davis

Adverts

22 and 23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Celia Wilcockson

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

Salvationist 16 November 2019

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NEWS

General Bramwell H Tillsley promoted to Glory GENERAL Bramwell H Tillsley, The Salvation Army’s 14th international leader, was promoted to Glory on 2 November from his home at the Army’s Meighen Retirement Residence in Toronto, Canada.

Bramwell was born in Kitchener, Ontario, on 18 August 1931 to Salvationists Doris and Harold Tillsley, who had emigrated from England to Canada just a few years before. He accepted Christ at a young age and became actively involved at Kitchener Citadel, including as a junior soldier, corps cadet, bandsman and cornet soloist.

In 1953, Bramwell married his beloved Maude Pitcher, and together

they entered the Toronto College for Officer Training in 1955 as cadets in the Sword Bearers Session. Upon their commissioning in 1956, they were appointed as corps officers in Windsor, Nova Scotia, followed by Oakville, Ontario. They served for the next six years at the training college in Toronto before their appointments as divisional youth officers in Saskatchewan and corps officers at North Toronto Citadel in 1966. In 1969, the Tillsleys returned to the training college in Toronto, where Bramwell took up the position of education officer.

He went on to become training principal, first at the training college in St John’s, Newfoundland, and then in the USA Eastern Territory.

In 1977 the Tillsleys returned to Newfoundland, with Bramwell appointed as the provincial commander. The position of divisional commander in the Metro Toronto Division followed, bringing the Tillsleys to home ground. Bramwell became principal of the International Training College in London, United Kingdom, in 1981, chief secretary of the USA Southern Territory in 1985 and territorial commander in the Australia Southern Territory in 1989, taking the rank of commissioner. In 1991, Commissioner Tillsley was appointed as the Chief of the Staff at International Headquarters in London.

In 1993, he was elected as the General of The Salvation Army, an office he held until May 1994. Together with his wife, World President of Women’s Organisations Mrs General Maude Tillsley, General Tillsley travelled the world, nurturing Salvationists in their faith and highlighting the work of The Salvation Army.

General Tillsley received a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy from the University of Western Ontario and furthered his studies at Wycliffe College in Toronto. He was a gifted writer and communicator who authored many books on biblical studies and holiness, including Life In The Spirit, This Mind In You and Manpower For The Master.

General Tillsley was predeceased by his wife who was promoted to Glory in 2014.

Loving prayers are extended to the General’s sister, Lieut-Colonel Audrey Wilder, and to his children and their families – the Rev Barbara Robinson, Commissioner Mark Tillsley and John Tillsley.

General Brian Peddle says: ‘As a Canadian officer, I have experienced the impact of General Tillsley’s leadership for more than four decades.

I have valued his writings and enjoyed his preaching and teaching, while noting his Christian character.

‘Servant of God, well done!’ – A. R.

CARDIFF CANTON: The band presented a programme of uplifting pieces and worship songs in St David’s Dewi Sant shopping centre. Almost £1,000 was raised in two hours and more than 100 copies of Kids Alive! were distributed. Many meaningful conversations were had, with some people thanking the Army for its support in the past. – A. W.

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Salvationist 16 November 2019

East Scotland families gather EDINBURGH CITY A NEAR-capacity congregation joined together for the divisional family gathering. The theme, Coming Home, celebrated the joy of belonging to God and to one another.

Guest speaker Captain Peter Renshaw (North Scotland DHQ) brought Bible messages. Major Irene Houston spoke about the ministry of the World Day of Prayer and Jay Wallace shared his reflections on starting as a gap-year student at Berwick Corps.

Beverley Johnston updated the congregation on the work of the Edinburgh Street Project, which supports women within the sex industry, before a composite band of folk from multiple corps and soloist Leanne Goddard (Glenrothes) provided music items.

Christian theatre company Cutting Edge delighted everyone with thought-provoking and amusing presentations, and representative corps members participated in an altar service for the helping-hand appeal; so far £7,500 has been raised for the endeavour. Silver Star parents were also recognised and shared in a fellowship lunch. – C. Y.

SKEWEN: Corps member Alan Sleat, who is blind and has a guide dog, led meetings to recognise World Sight Day. They focused on the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9–14) and Jesus healing the blind man (Mark 8:22–26). Alan later shared his testimony, speaking about his loss of sight at the age of 28 and the rediscovery of his faith after a vision one night. Lynette Williams raised £200 by taking part in a sponsored blindfold, guided by Lynda Lustig throughout the day. The funds will go to Neath Fellowship Group, part of the Torch Trust, a Christian charity providing fellowship and support to people with sight loss. – S. L. Staff at Merthyr Tydfil charity shop sell #WeAreNotForSale temporary tattoos to support Anti-Slavery Day, explaining the Army campaign to customers

Regional Specialist for Community Debbie Charles presents Joyce Moore with a letter and gifts from Mission Service (THQ) for 25 years of service at Shoeburyness charity shop; also pictured are corps officers Captains Clare and Robert Davis

BARROW-IN-FURNESS: Young people from the National Citizen Service organised a tea party for socially isolated people after adopting The Salvation Army as its nominated charity to support. The event took the theme A Trip Down Memory Lane, and the young people took part in activities raising awareness of mental health and inclusivity for those with mobility challenges.

Corps officer Captain Martin Davison later thanked the young people at the scheme’s award ceremony and explained how the Army interacts with people in need and provides opportunities for community service. The £520 raised by the young people helped the corps reach its Big Collection target. – M. D. Salvationist 16 November 2019

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NEWS

Bristol young people make music!

STAPLE HILL THE day began with brass and vocal workshops, including workshops for learners. There was certainly a buzz, with about fifty young people chatting and playing games.

After an afternoon of hard work, the children presented a music and creative arts celebration, which featured young people from Bristol Citadel, Bristol Easton and Staple Hill.

Prayers were offered by young

people from Bristol Citadel.

Those who had recently begun learning to play instruments presented ‘In This Place’ led by Garry Mitchell (Bristol Easton), who encouraged the congregation to train and help those who are just starting.

Corps officer Major Colin Hylton-Jones led the evening, including a ‘paws’ for thought, where he asked children to make balloon dogs.

The young people praised and worshipped God through their gifts and encouraged the adults who work alongside them. – V. W.

Bourne corps officer Lieutenant Sarah O’Grady presents Ann Crump, Sue Smith and Patricia Stubley with certificates for completing the Herald Challenge

Cadet Luke Cozens, Lesley Laird, MP, and Councillor Judy Hamilton

Linda Dunlop from Parkhead organises a Macmillan coffee afternoon at Edrom Court retirement complex, raising £260; also pictured are Lena Combe and Flora Muir 6

Salvationist 16 November 2019

KIRKCALDY: Lesley Laird, MP for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath, opened a community fair in the area where the new corps hall will be.

A variety of activities took place during the day, including a prayer tree, on which more than 40 requests were hung. Corps members later picked one each to add to their personal prayers. The band and Kirkcaldy High School’s choir took part in the event, organised by Cadet Luke Cozens. Councillor Judy Hamilton, three nearby churches and representatives from Street Pastors also attended. The divisional emergency vehicle served free tea and coffee. – D. A.

MAIDSTONE: The corps celebrated its children’s ministry with music brought by Harmony Brass. Many in this new brass group began learning earlier this year and for some it was their first Salvation Army meeting.

The band was the idea of a young member of the corps, who envisioned a band that anyone could join and learn to play in. During the meeting the corps was encouraged to ‘dream big dreams’ and ‘pray big prayers’. – G. P. Northumbria Police community engagement dog Russell visits the Cameo club at Southwick Community Project

James and Katherine Seymour from Hadleigh Temple complete a 5km inflatable obstacle course, raising £400 for The Salvation Army’s anti-trafficking and modern slavery work

Isle of Wight corps officers Captains Lillian and Rodney Bean receive a cheque for £158 from Bandsman Alan Rowe on behalf of the island’s Friends in Harmony barbershop singers

STAPLE HILL: The band presented one of their regular concerts to a full hall, opening with ‘Flashpoint’. Beth Ewins’s cornet solo ‘Don’t Doubt Him Now’ set a reflective atmosphere before Band Secretary Chris Painter and Ed Goodman brought a duet. Guest Matt Lush, a young pianist from Cardiff, introduced his own jazz renditions of ‘Give Thanks’, ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Country’. Audience members were encouraged to become lights for good in the community, before the band brought ‘Shine As The Light’. Corps officer Major Colin Hylton-Jones presented retiring Bandmaster Nathan James with a signed print of the band after thanking him for more than ten years of service. The evening concluded with the band’s signature march ‘Staple Hill Citadel’. – V. W. Salvationist 16 November 2019

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NEWS

Peterborough Citadel Band shares musical ministry SCARBOROUGH PETERBOROUGH Citadel Band opened an evening festival with ‘Washington 125’.

Soloist Nathan Bright (horn) brought ‘Don’t Doubt Him Now’ before the congregation joined in singing ‘Who Is On The Lord’s Side?’. Guest soloist Songster Leader Sue Blyth (Peterborough Citadel) sang ‘Now I Belong To Jesus’ and ‘I Am Safe In Your Arms’.

In lighter moments, Martin Blessett’s solo ‘Bare Necessities’ brought laughter as he dressed to suit the part.

Major Gary Chaundy (Peterborough Citadel) led Sunday morning worship, basing his thoughts around the hope of Christ and the glory of God. In the afternoon, a relaxed programme included contributions from Scarborough Songsters, and Martyn Hobbs’ Bible thought reminded everyone of the

Deputy Bandmaster Paul Cuthbert (Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls) sounds the Last Post at Notts County v Hartlepool United; Paul, a Notts County season ticket holder, played to a crowd of more than 5,000 fans

importance of encouragement.

During the meeting Music Editorial Manager Andrew Blyth (THQ) recognised Songster Leader Howard Moxon’s 45 years of service; he has also served as singing

SLEAFORD: Northgate Methodist church was filled to capacity for a united Songs of Praise service organised by the corps. Ministers from churches in the area gave testimonies of their paths into ministry. – N. M. Leighton Buzzard Songsters and Band supported Derick Kane and the Bexleyheath Brass Sextet in an evening of music to mark the 133rd corps anniversary

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Hamilton corps officer Captain Wendy Leisk presents Karen Morton and May Kilpatrick from St Andrew’s hospice with a cheque for £1,200; also pictured are the volunteers who served the public at the Charitea, where the money was raised

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

AIRDRIE: The 134th corps anniversary weekend began with a ceilidh on Saturday night. Friends from neighbouring corps supported the time of fellowship. An anniversary cake, made by Betty Cunningham, was cut by No 1 and No 2 on the roll, David and CS Davina McMartin. – J. S.

GAINSBOROUGH: To support the territorial work on anti-trafficking, the corps decided to bring gifts such as personal hygiene items, slippers, mirrors and hair clippers. These donations were given to the Army’s divisional safe house. People arrive at the safe house with nothing but the clothes on their backs, so these items will be of immense use. – P. H. 8

Salvationist 16 November 2019

Laurence Endrich and Dee Creed receive emergency first aid at work certificates from corps officer Lieutenant Chris Button for their voluntary work at Wandsworth

NEWS FEATURE

Youth on a mission LATVIA AN early summer’s morning saw a group of young people from Tunbridge Wells eagerly waiting to board a flight to Riga, write corps officers Captains Graeme and Zoe Smith. The group was about to embark on a mission trip to help run holiday camps for children in Latvia.

This was the culmination of months of planning and fundraising events, such as coffee mornings, car washes and a sponsored sea swim.

Once in Riga, the team collected resources for the camps and set off the next day for Skangali Manor, the Army’s children’s support and social care centre and the group’s base for the next ten days.

The first holiday camp was set up in Liepa, a small town nearby with a population of just over 2,000 people. An active corps opened in the town in 1995, five years after The Salvation Army recommenced its work in Latvia. There was no official children’s ministry, however, so the youth group was hoping its mission would help launch something new.

The young people had no idea how many children would arrive for the camp, but within an hour of opening the doors on the first day more than 20 had signed up.

Supported by ourselves and youth leader Hazel Edwards, they took turns to lead activities and engage with the children. This provided them with different experiences and stretched them in new ways as they felt the Spirit working through them.

The theme for the camps was Power Up! and the days were filled with Bible stories,

games, activities, crafts, challenges, songs and dances. The team worked together with Latvian Salvationists, who had already led camps around the country earlier in the summer. For many of the children, however, it was the first time they had heard about Jesus and the team felt privileged to be sharing the good news with them.

On Sunday the youth helped to lead the meeting at Liepa, which was themed around the camp’s memory verse: ‘His divine power

‘

The camp was the first time many of the children had heard about Jesus

’

has given us everything we need for a godly life’ (2 Peter 1:3). The hall was packed and everyone was thrilled when some of the children from the holiday camp attended.

The team then moved on to Seda, where the Army opened a corps in 2012. The town embodies much of what challenges the Army’s mission in post-Soviet eastern Europe. Formerly a thriving industrial town, changing times have seen Seda’s economy collapse and much of the population depart, leaving a remnant of around eight hundred people, many with social welfare problems and substance abuse issues.

The group’s second holiday camp spoke a message of hope and God’s love to this Russian-speaking community. More than 30 children attended each day, many of them already known to Seda’s corps leaders through their youth work in the community.

The camp provided an opportunity to help strengthen these relationships.

In the evenings the team enjoyed some downtime exploring Latvia. The group also studied God’s word, a time when the Holy Spirit spoke deeply into the young people’s hearts.

The mission was an incredible experience for all involved. The young people learnt to rely more on God’s strength, which gave them the courage to step up and try new things. The team is thankful for The Salvation Army in Latvia, for the opportunity to be involved in God’s mission there, and for the prayer and financial support provided by Tunbridge Wells Corps.

The team is also thankful for the privilege of serving and seeing God’s Kingdom grow.

Salvationist 16 November 2019

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FEATURE ICO testimonies

GOD’S WAY WITH ME Three delegates from the 243rd session at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development share their testimonies

LIEUT-COLONEL JENNIFER LYONS Caribbean Territory The Lord has blessed us THE Caribbean Territory is made up of 16 countries. I am from the beautiful island of Jamaica, born in the parish of Hanover. I went to primary school there and afterwards moved to Kingston, where I attended a high school and business college.

My grandmother was a Salvationist, so I spent holidays with her and visited the corps in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland. There I met a soldier called Edward. We became friends and 10

Salvationist 16 November 2019

then courted for two years before getting married.

I worked as a dressmaker for a while.

We then started our own business – a variety store – which I managed. I was doing well in our business and it was successful. At that time we had three children.

One day my husband told me he had got the call to officership. But I did not want to go to college because the business was doing well and I was not willing to give it up. I was addicted to the business and making money.

One day my corps officer visited me and asked me if I had got the call to officership. I said no. She then said to me: ‘Thanks for your honesty, but your

husband got the call. What are you going to do?’ I said nothing.

My husband and I began to quarrel.

One Saturday morning, I said: ‘OK, you go and leave me; I will give you a divorce so you can go.’ After the quarrel, I went into the living room, sat down and turned on the TV. A preacher was saying: ‘God calls some people into full-time ministry, but because of their business and money they cannot leave to go. But some sickness could come upon you that no money in the world could cure.’ At that moment I started crying, and asked God for forgiveness.

I went to my husband and told him I was ready to go to the training college because the Lord had called me to full-time ministry.

The following year, 1995, we went to the training college with our three children. It was very hard for me to study with my children, but God saw me through the two years.

After I entered full-time ministry, the Lord blessed me with three more children. Four are now adults and two are teenagers: two boys and four girls.

I also have three grandchildren. My fourth child is currently a second-year cadet in the Caribbean Territorial Training College.

I thank God for my family and my ministry in The Salvation Army. My husband and I have been married for 31 years and the Lord has blessed us tremendously. In everything I do, I rely on the Holy Spirit to lead me and I hold on dearly to my favourite Scripture: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me’ (Philippians 4:13 King James Version).

CAPTAIN CHRISSIE MAHATA Malawi Territory God forgave me and renewed my life BEFORE I received Jesus as my personal Saviour my life was terrible.

As a family we went to church every Sunday, but this did not make me a saved person because I did not know God. As a young girl I was very rude to my parents and people at school. Because of this, it was difficult for me to make friends. I would not pray and I would not read the Bible, because to me

these were a waste of time. I lived this terrible life until I got married.

In 1999 I married Richard, who was already a Christian in The Salvation Army. One day he took me to the Army church for worship. The people there gave me a warm welcome. In the worship service, the singing and style of worship helped me feel the presence of God. When it was time for the message, the officer preached from Luke 15:11– 32, the parable of the prodigal son.

At the end of the message the officer said that if anyone wanted to repent of their sins and come back to God, they should come to the mercy seat to pray.

In my heart I realised that I was a sinner and needed forgiveness. I felt like someone was pushing me to go to the mercy seat. At first I tried to suppress it, but I could not. At long last I stood up and walked to the mercy seat where I prayed for forgiveness.

God forgave me and renewed my life.

I experienced the love of God and became his child.

Since then my life has changed.

I started reading the Bible and offering short prayers. As a young couple we used to do Bible studies every evening.

This really helped me to grow in my spiritual life.

‘

I felt like someone was pushing me to go to the mercy seat

’

Today I am proud to be a Christian and an officer of The Salvation Army.

I want to thank God for my new and meaningful life, because if it were not for his grace, which saved me, I would be lost today.

It is my prayer that God will continue to help me as I serve him. To God be the glory!

LIEUTENANT JUN AIBARA Japan Territory It is my privilege to respond to his call I THANK God for the opportunity to serve as a translator for this ICO session only two and a half years after I was commissioned.

My appointments are as a corps officer at Sendai, and Emergency Services Officer. Sendai is the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, with a population of more than a million. Since the Great East Japan Earthquake in March 2011, the corps has become the base for supporting activities, not only for neighbours but also for significantly devastated areas of northeast Japan.

Onagawa, where the Army has been helping people since the earthquake, was immensely damaged. More than 800 people lost their lives and 70 per cent of the buildings were destroyed.

Eight years have passed, and reconstruction work is still progressing daily.

At that time we received a lot of

support from the Army around the world and were able to provide adequate support for recovery.

Although the disaster areas have recovered economically, many people are still suffering emotionally and spiritually. It is challenging to restore the communities once destroyed. However, when I look around, I realise that the collapse of the community is emerging everywhere in Japan. It is called the third wealthiest country in the world, but problems such as solitary deaths, suicides and child poverty are getting bigger and bigger.

During this time at the ICO I have had a chance to learn from the teachings and testimonies of lecturers and delegates. I am eager to learn how to restore communities and how to use the resources that are given to us.

One of Jesus’ ministries is the restoration of the community, in the past, the present and the future. At the moment Jesus called Zacchaeus’s name, Zacchaeus was freed from loneliness and he was accepted by his community soon after; it is a priority that human dignity is restored.

My sessional name is Joyful Intercessors. It is a fantastic revelation and anointing, which encourages me to participate in God’s ministry of restoration. I believe he is training and equipping me through this special time at the ICO. It is my privilege to respond to his call.

May God continue to use me to help people in restoring their true identities.

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FEATURE Fragments Of Change

Rebuilding the Army in Berlin Thirty years on from the fall of the Berlin Wall (9 November 1989), Major Rolf Metzger shares excerpts from his book Fragments Of Change

T

HE political revolution in East Germany was an exciting period both for citizens of the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) and several West Germans, like me. The Salvation Army had been banned from East Germany. Now the time had come to rebuild it up from scratch.

The ‘fragments of change’ are my personal anecdotes. They reflect emotions many people experienced, and the situations with which they were confronted. The stories also show how the great God of past and present reveals himself in the individual fragments of upheaval.

THE BREAKTHROUGH

‘THIS IS IMPOSSIBLE…’

I had never dreamt anything like this would happen. I had come to Berlin with my family to lead the small Salvation Army in the west of the city. Suddenly I found myself at the centre of world history in the making.

I immediately rounded up my dozen officers. We arranged to meet at the border crossing in Invalidenstraße to serve hot lemon tea to the thousands queueing to pass through.

I hastily had thirty thousand or so leaflets printed, which contained a few words of greeting: ‘Welcome! After an enforced break of 28 years, The Salvation Army is still here for you!’

Late that evening, after an exhausting but happy day, I took a piece of the wall home with me. Sitting on my desk, it would always serve to remind me of the lengths to which humanity is prepared to go.

Yet the greatest turning point in my work – and, indeed, my whole life – was still to come.

Whenever I had been out of the office for any length of time, the first thing I did on my return was to listen to the answerphone. On this occasion I heard a male voice: ‘Bein speaking. I’m Mr Behnke’s desk officer. He’s the head of department at the State Secretariat for Church Affairs.’

I assumed the call was a reaction to my letter.

I had written said letter a week before to the Christian Democratic Party. I had decided to act on my initiative and apply for The Salvation Army in East Germany to be reregistered as a free church.

Immediately I attempted to phone back. I dialled my fingers raw. As usual, the few lines that existed were totally overloaded. Eventually, however, my persistence paid off.

We agreed to meet later that afternoon. So once again I headed eastwards.

I entered the building. At the entrance, a uniformed member of the People’s Police was sitting in a kind of porter’s lodge. He was obviously not thrilled to be disturbed.

But when he saw my uniform, a look of amazement appeared on his face. He willingly showed me the way to Mr Behnke’s office.

Mr Behnke did not keep me waiting long. Our discussion was animated, and a spirit of trust soon developed between us. He knew the history of The Salvation Army very well.

‘It’s a pity you didn’t write to us earlier,’ Mr Behnke continued. ‘Elections are due to be held in three weeks, the first free elections in East Germany. After that the registration process will be much more difficult.

‘Today’s Monday. If you were to call a founding assembly of The Salvation Army before the weekend, during which you adopt the statutes and elect a management board, then it would still be possible. And you must have at least 15 founding members. That’s what the law stipulates.’

The Army had a large number of friends in East Germany.

But how could we gather them all together for a founding assembly at such short notice? I reluctantly decided to send

Greeted by ‘an Army cup of tea’

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Salvationist 16 November 2019

Showing interest in Major Metzger’s ‘Welcome!’ leaflet

HOW GREAT THOU ART! Shortly after the wall came down, Örebro Band, from Sweden, announced its plans to visit East Germany.

It was the first time that a uniformed Salvation Army band paid an official visit and performed in public.

The events in the different towns and The queue of visitors from the East in November 1989 at the cities varied considerably. And yet all had Brandenburg Gate provisional border crossing their charm and provided their own form of encouragement. Serrahn is a village with a handful of people – but the local church was packed for the concert. In the city of Dresden hundreds of people listened to the band’s witness directly in front of the statue of Lenin in Prager Straße.

Unforgettable is the word I would use to describe the visit to Chemnitz, then still Karl-Marx-Stadt. Throngs of people surrounded the Swedish Salvationists as they held an open-air service next to the town hall. After the open-air service the band really made history by marching to the Friedenskirche (Church of Peace) escorted by the People’s Police.

While the band played, a few of the Swedish women walked along the pavement distributing leaflets in rather quaint Office building of the Secretariat for German.

Church Affairs in East Germany The march went past the Soviet barracks. The young soldiers behind the fence eagerly accepted the leaflets and began to flip through them with interest.

For the band’s time in Berlin I had gone to the Mitte district office to apply for permission for us to march from MarxEngels-Platz (today Schloßplatz) along Karl-LiebknechtStraße to Alexanderplatz, where we planned to hold the first open-air service in the east of the city. Permission was granted without delay.

When we consider the fall of the wall and everything it set in telegrams to invite people to a founding assembly in the hall motion, we cannot help but join in singing that international of the former Leipzig Corps.

Swedish hymn of praise: ‘Then sings my soul, my Saviour The next morning, together with Brother Weiss – an older God, to thee:/ How great thou art!’

G Salvation Army supporter from East Berlin – I set off on the (SASB 49). long drive to Leipzig.

Climbing the steep steps to the assembly hall, Brother Weiss and I were welcomed by Brother Färber. Brother O Fragments Of Change is available Färber had held together the former Salvation Army corps, from SP&S priced £5 (plus postage which was now the Lindenau church community, over many and packing). An ebook is available years. He was a living example of faith and perseverance. from Amazon or Kobo However, his welcome was everything but encouraging.

‘This is impossible. Fifteen people? In the middle of the MAJOR METZGER afternoon?’

LIVES IN ‘Let’s just wait and see,’ I said. ‘If our Lord Jesus Christ RETIREMENT IN wants this to happen, he will make it possible.’

BERLIN Twenty-one people came.

‘

I decided to act on my initiative and apply for The Salvation Army in East Germany to be reregistered as a free church

’

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COLUMN FROM THE COLLEGE

LESSONS LEARNT IN THE SUMMER Cadet Liam Beattie looks back at the truths he learnt during his placement

O

NE of the best things about coming to faith has been that God continually surprises me – and my summer placement was no exception.

As part of our training, cadets are sent out across the territory to put what we have learnt at college into practice as we engage in ministry. This is where I find God’s sense of humour really prominent.

How has someone like me, who once openly and actively refuted the word of God, ended up on this journey of Christian pilgrimage and running a corps in Northern Ireland?

This summer saw me going to the fair shores of Ballymena, where I was able to experience his greatness first hand. It was here that three important truths were highlighted, and will for ever stay with me.

GOD IS GOOD I knew even from stepping off the plane that there was something different about this place. The culture was refreshing, the landscape was rugged with beauty, the food was sumptuous and the accents were delightful.

What was particularly great was how wonderful the people were. Upon arriving in Ballymena I was welcomed with genuine warmth, and that courtesy extended throughout the division. I felt blessed. God was good.

Wanting to mirror that compassion, and embrace the calling upon my heart, 14

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instilled in me a great sense of fulfilment.

Never have I felt so alive in all my life than when I was fulfilling God’s call.

Places I’ve been and things I’ve achieved in the past simply pale in comparison. Officership is a genuine privilege, and I thank God daily for blessing me with such a ministry.

GOD IS GRACIOUS I remember travelling down a coastal road one day. It was a journey of pure beauty: the mountains met the coast, the sun was shining upon the strikingly blue sea and the hills were a radiant green. It was in this beauty of God’s creation that I was reminded of something even more beautiful – his grace.

By this point, things at Ballymena were really gathering momentum, and my soul was in a good place. A question arose from this sense of serenity: How did someone like me become so deserving as to be a minister of God’s word, to serve and journey with these wonderful people?

The truth of the matter is that I am not deserving of this privilege. God’s grace is something I often take for granted, and Paul once said: ‘Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst’ (1 Timothy 1:15). I can certainly relate to that!

Paul was able to influence generations of Christians. Someone like me finds himself in a position of leadership.

Whatever our circumstances, we can all be in positions of great privilege – all because of the love and grace of God. GOD IS FAITHFUL I won’t lie: being a Christian is trickier, and the learning curve at college was steeper, than I anticipated. But there was another element that I really hadn’t anticipated: God’s faithfulness.

This summer was my ‘mountain-top’ experience – a time of great rejoicing and a period of rich learning, not only about what to do but also about who I am in Christ. This summer I felt myself really flourishing as a person. I was able to be authentically me, and the fact I was able to channel that into my ministry has been a real blessing.

I firmly believe that the combination of love and investment from the people I have encountered has allowed me to flourish. Through Christ, I am actually able to do this.

Salvation Army epaulettes prompt varied opinions in people – some good, some bad. I look to mine and see God’s faithfulness. I considered officer training to be an absolute impossibility for me, so to see myself in college and then in a summer placement is a powerful reminder of his faithfulness.

I’m excited to see what the future holds, because God is good and God is gracious – but most importantly, God is faithful.

FEATURE I Values

Respect

Treating everyone as family In the fifth of our series on the values that shape the work of The Salvation Army in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, Major Val Mylechreest looks at Respect

I

N 1967 Aretha Franklin recorded the single Respect. It was a rewrite of an original song by Otis Redding. By changing a few of the words Franklin turned it into an anthem for the civil rights and women’s rights movements in the United States. The chorus builds until Franklin delivers the famous, repeated ‘sock it to me’ line, demanding she gets the respect she deserves.

This turnaround is now recognised as a significant cultural moment. Whichever version of the song you prefer, the message is about each of us respecting one another, irrespective of colour, creed, culture, background, gender, belief – the list is endless.

At the time of writing, the news is full of the dreadful behaviour of some football fans at the Euro 2020 qualifier between Bulgaria and England. The disrespect shown to black England players very nearly brought the match to a close, and certainly brought the organisers, UEFA, into disrepute.

Franklin’s anthem – and the call for respect – is as relevant today as it has ever been.

Everyone does deserve respect and everyone should be respected. That’s why respect is listed as one of the values of The Salvation Army.

As Christians we turn to Scripture to

help us better understand what it is that God requires of us. In large parts of the Old Testament we find the idea of respect tied up with status and authority rather than coming from a personal stance of admiration and esteem. God is to be respected and his chosen representatives are likewise. It is an expectation rather than a courtesy freely given.

In the New Testament we find the parable of the tenants (see Luke 20:9–18). A man planted a vineyard and sent his servants to the tenants so they would give him some of the fruit. One after the other, the servants were beaten and sent away empty-handed. Then the vineyard owner said: ‘I will send my own dear son; surely they will respect him!’ (v13 Good News Bible). Well, they didn’t: they killed him. We know that refers to Christ’s death and resurrection, but the story is still uncomfortable reading.

Let me tell you some good news. Let me tell you about places within the South London Division where respect is being lovingly lived out.

Over the past couple of years, two refugee families have been welcomed – people with different stories, backgrounds, natures, cultures, languages and needs treated with absolute respect simply for who they are.

It has been amazing to see how God has honoured these projects and how living and loving with respect has provided a means of blessing for all those concerned. When houses have been miraculously provided, Salvation Army communities have gone to work.

They have painted and decorated, bought and donated, and given sacrificially to welcome total strangers – time, talents, gifts and skills all put to Kingdom use.

Before the families’ names were known, let alone their circumstances or situations, love and respect were poured out in practical ways in order that the gospel might be seen in action.

To everyone who has spent countless hours and blood, sweat and tears, I say thank you. Thank you for giving and showing respect to complete strangers who have become more than friends, and are now part of the family. Doesn’t that say something to us?

That should be our response to every person who enters through our doors and into our lives. Sometimes it’s hard.

Sometimes there are those who appear to have unloveable personalities. We need wisdom to guard ourselves and others but we are always called to do so with respect.

These are sons and daughters whom God loves. Surely we will respect them? And when we do, that sense of respect is returned. Not because it is earned or demanded but from a deep sense of love, as Kingdom values are worked out in our lives, ‘so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders’ (1 Thessalonians 4:12).

Richard Branson, the multi-millionaire entrepreneur, said: ‘Respect is how to treat everyone, not just those you want to impress.’ The Gospel writers remind us that everyone – yes, everyone – is part of the family and loved by God. Surely, we will respect them.

O The

six values statements are available at salvationarmy.org.uk/our-missionvision-and-values MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS DIVISIONAL COMMANDER, SOUTH LONDON Salvationist 16 November 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

Kingdom of justice Captain Mark Read cautions us not to reduce justice to more conveniently-sized ideas

STUDY PASSAGE: JOHN 9:1–17

I

N 2008, Pope Benedict XVI addressed the United Nations and gently gave a warning that if human rights were disconnected from their origins in God’s Kingdom of justice they would be reduced to an unsubstantial approximation of justice. His concern was that the contemporary imagination would diminish the concept of justice to the policing of a few rights.

Often, justice is only discussed in society in relation to particular themes, such as gender, ethnicity, sexuality and personal autonomy. However, it is not only the contemporary imagination that is in danger of diminishing justice.

Within the Church, despite our familiarity with the long history of God’s justice, we too often reduce it to more conveniently-sized ideas: justice as social action, human rights or personal piety. None of these are negative, but none of them tell the whole story of the Kingdom of justice.

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

by Major Freda Benneyworth

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QUESTIONS O When you hear the words ‘Kingdom of justice’, what do you imagine?

O What characters or actions are involved?

In John 9, we find just one event and its repercussions described: Jesus heals a man born blind. While miraculous, it is not uncommon in the Gospels. So why does John dedicate an entire chapter to describing it in such detail? It may have been for several reasons, but it illustrates a justice that goes beyond how we may imagine it.

Our Movement has social action deep within its DNA. It is a reason we are admired. However, we must not reduce justice to social action. Social action is most frequently an act of charity or mercy.

On reading verses 1 to 3, we see that Jesus’ action is not a response solely driven by compassion for the man.

Instead, it reads as a response to the disciples’ question about the reason for

the man’s blindness; Jesus’ healing demonstrates God’s Kingdom of justice. The disciples show a deeply transactional understanding of the world – that sin brought punishment from God and morality brought blessing – and that this blindness was a consequence of sin.

Jesus confounds the disciples’ understanding. The healing demonstrates that God is not transactional. In this way, the Kingdom of justice goes beyond social action to the right ordering of society – Jesus gives fullness of life to a man who most presumed was undeserving.

QUESTIONS O Do we presume not living fully is a consequence? Do we presume our own fullness of life is a reward for good moral behaviour?

O How might our social action bring fullness to the individuals it touches?

Or does it make them an object or project?

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Praise God for the harvest of conflict and love,/ For leaders and peoples who struggle and serve/ To banish oppression, Earth’s plenty increase,/ And gather God’s harvest of justice and peace.

(SASB 54)

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8)

Beauty for brokenness, hope for despair,/ Lord, in your suffering world this is our prayer./ Bread for the children, justice, joy, peace,/ Sunrise to sunset your Kingdom increase!/ Shelter for fragile lives, cures for their ills,/ Work for the craftsmen, trade for their skills./ Land for the dispossessed, rights for the weak,/ Voices to plead the cause of those who can’t speak.

(SASB 998)

Salvationist 16 November 2019

To what extent can we truly believe there is the potential for fullness and dignity in every life we encounter?

O

Living justly may seem easier if we keep to ourselves, if we remain uninvolved with society. Puritans practised this type of piety and left Europe to live separately in the United States. Piety may preserve justice within the boundaries of the group but Jesus engages with everyone involved in this story: he teaches the disciples, heals the man born blind and, at the conclusion of chapter 9, gives a warning to the Pharisees. In each interaction he is bringing justice. Jesus’ holiness, in contrast to piety, leads him to others rather than away from them.

Jesus’ action causes quite a controversy. First, because it disrupts the transactional understanding that had been so engrained in the mentality of the time. Second, because it takes place on the Sabbath. Jesus transgressed the prevailing wisdom and practice to bring dignity to the man – it is important to note that his economic situation was the indignity and not his blindness. The law of the Sabbath is deeply rooted in justice, but to maintain it in this situation would have meant making the Sabbath law a thin, unsubstantial justice.

QUESTIONS O How are we led towards others?

O How does our holiness transform the situations we encounter?

QUESTION Which of our practices, habits, procedures and beliefs are we prepared to reconsider for a fuller justice to ensue?

These are difficult verses and ideas: concepts of justice are varied, complex and contested, even within the Church. Human rights, like social action, have become synonymous

O

with justice. They have come to represent the wisdom and practice of our age. Perhaps we are called to go beyond human rights to enable human dignity.

What is encouraging is how Jesus brings justice in this story using mud and spit – things that are common and ordinary. The work of seeking justice can often be presented as glamorous, exciting and only for the gifted or professionals. However, the meaningful reality is that it may be the ordinary and everyday that echoes the Kingdom of justice in our world most clearly.

CAPTAIN READ IS CORPS OFFICER, NORTH DEVON CORPS

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.

Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.

(Proverbs 31:8 and 9)

Who can stand before your anger?/ Who can face your piercing eyes?/ For you love the weak and helpless,/ And you hear the victims’ cries,/ Yes, you are a God of justice,/ And your judgment surely comes:/ Upon our nation, upon our nation,/ Have mercy, Lord.

(SASB 1004)

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures for ever. Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the Lord or fully declare his praise? Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right.

(Psalm 106:1–3)

All that kills abundant living,/ Let it from the Earth be banned:/ Pride of status, race or schooling,/ Dogmas that obscure your plan./ In our common quest for justice/ May we hallow life’s brief span.

(SASB 1000)

Prayer Lord, on occasions, we want people to get their ‘just deserts’, but your Kingdom is one of justice and mercy, from which we have benefited. May we be merciful not vengeful, compassionate not judgmental, and at all times following the example we see in you.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL: Supported by friends and family, Josie Lamplough was enrolled as a soldier by territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill. Josie chose music items for the meeting and testified that she is on a Christian journey. She expressed the hope that people will see Jesus in her life and that she will find new opportunities to share her faith. – R. O.

HARLESDEN: Corps officer Captain Hean Suk Choi, dressed in Korean national attire, enrolled Matthew, Caleb and Abigail as junior soldiers. They are pictured with Captain Kook Hwan Rho, also in Korean national attire, and Jean Buckley and Margaret Elliott, who teach the children in Sunday school. Holding the flag is CSM Myra Perry. – M. P.

Some photos removed SUTTON-IN-ASHFIELD: Corps officer Captain Deborah Oughton welcomed Christine Hurwood as an adherent member. Christine has been attending the corps for a year since moving to the town.

She chose the song ‘Praise, My Soul, The King Of Heaven’ (SASB 55), as it had featured in all the important milestones of her life. – D. O.

KIRKCALDY: Ian and Moira Inglis were welcomed as adherent members by Cadet Luke Cozens. Having been adherent members at Edinburgh Gorgie some years ago, the couple were delighted to be back in the fold. They are looking forward to serving the Lord in any way they can. Also pictured is Adherents Secretary Major Helen Richardson. – D. A. GUISBOROUGH: After a number of years as an adherent member, Angela Jackson-Bailey decided to become a soldier. Corps officers Majors Antony and Fiona Mugford conducted the enrolment and Angela’s husband, Arthur, sang a solo while she signed the soldier’s covenant. – S. S.

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PENRITH: Kylie Miles and Frances McKenzie were welcomed as adherent members. Kylie has been attending the corps for a number of years. She testified that the presence of the Lord is always with her, and chose Psalm 23 to show that she has accepted God as her shepherd. Frances, who linked up with the corps more than a year ago, testified to an inner glow and peace since coming to faith, and the knowledge that God has always been present. She shared that the words ‘My chains are gone, I’ve been set free’ from ‘Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)’ expressed the release she felt from the moment she accepted Jesus and received his forgiveness. – C. D.

PLYMOUTH EXETER HALL WHITLEIGH: Evie Jones was welcomed as a member of Kingdom Builders, the new Sunday school, and Neve Bray and Ruby Taylor were enrolled as junior soldiers. The girls are a great example to the younger children in the corps. They are pictured with corps officers Captain Tom and Lieutenant Rachel Dunham. – T. D.

SHERINGHAM: Jenny Bailey and Dorothy Allen were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Alex Bishop. Jenny began attending meetings after accepting an invitation through the corps bereavement support group. She testified that linking up with the Army changed her life. Dorothy was invited to the corps by her neighbour, Recruiting Sergeant Kay Hazelwood (right). Dorothy had previously attended a gospel hall with her husband before moving to the area. She testified that she received such a warm welcome at the corps that she felt at home. Holding the flag is CSM Robert Brown. – A. B.

READING CENTRAL: David Gibson was welcomed as an adherent member, having been introduced to the Army at the old Reading East Corps by his Salvationist neighbours. He attended Sunday school, became a junior soldier and played in the band.

However, his family moved away and he lost contact with the Army.

Last year, after a traumatic event in his life, he felt God calling him back and linked up with Reading Central. He immediately felt welcome and among friends, and has made the corps his spiritual home. He has been taking brass lessons and hopes to help with carolling this year. – R. W.

SHIPLEY: Corps officer Major Mike Harris enrolled Matt Spooner as a soldier. Matt began attending the corps after moving to the area and soon expressed a desire to take this step of commitment. His enrolment included music that has helped him on his journey. He testified to the way God had been working in his life. – M. H. MIRFIELD: Archie Grills was enrolled as a junior soldier. Many members of Archie’s family supported him on the day; Archie and corps officer Lieutenant Pip Chisholm are pictured with Archie’s brother, Bertie, his mother, Sheena, and Kath, who, along with Sheena, led Archie through junior soldier lessons. Archie celebrated by performing the rainbow floss. – P. C.

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Salvationist 16 November 2019

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Golden O Terry and Bonita Sage, Swindon Citadel (15 November) DEDICATED TO GOD O Maya Beverlee, daughter of Michael and Eloise Scott, at Harrow by Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Colonel Joy Cooper (80 on 24 November) O Lieut-Colonel John West (80 on 26 November) BEREAVED O Songster Margaret Burns, Bolton Citadel, of her husband George, John Burns and Paul Burns of their father O Major Graham Mizon, THQ, Janet Cotton and Trevor Mizon of their father Frank PROMOTED TO GLORY O RS Christina Guthrie, Bolton Citadel

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory RETIREMENT FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 November O Major Raymond Charlton out of Grimsby Willows in 2004 and last appointment Reading West ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES LES PICKERING, LEADGATE GEORGE Leslie Pickering, a thirdgeneration Salvationist, was born in Sacriston to Salvationist parents at the home of his grandparents.

Les, as he preferred to be known, attended Leadgate for most of his life, serving in the YP and senior bands and,

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O Nairobi (Africa Zonal Conference), Sat 16 Nov – Sun 24 O Nairobi (Africa Zonal Women’s Ministries Conference), Sat 23 – Wed 27* O USA National (Red Kettle Kick-off), Mon 25 – Sat 30** O New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory (commissioning, retirement of Commissioners Andrew and Yvonne Westrupp), Wed 4 Dec – Mon 9 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O Kenya East Territory (commissioning), Th 5 Dec – Tu 10 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Glebe Court (reopening), Mon 18 Nov O Gloucester (140th corps anniversary), Sat Sun 24 O Territorial Appointments Conference, Sat 30 O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec O Westminster (national church leaders’ breakfast), Th 5 O Carlisle, Sun 8 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES O East Scotland Division, Th 14 Nov – Sun 17 O Kettering Citadel (ISB weekend), Sat Sun 24 O Anglia retired officers Christmas fellowship meeting, Fri 29 O Territorial Appointments Conference, Sat 30 O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND O Kettering Citadel, Sat Sun 24 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS O Louth, Sat Sun 17 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec *World President of Women’s Ministries only **The General only

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Salvationist 16 November 2019

after his father’s retirement, as songster leader.

Along with his wife, Doreen, Les ran the very successful corps music and drama group, acting as its musical director. They produced approximately three shows a year, and Les was renowned for the high standard of singing he achieved. These productions brought several new people to the corps, many of whom became soldiers.

Due to failing health in the last two years of his life, Les was unable to take part in the corps programme as he would have wished. Despite this, he never lost his faith in the Lord. He was a true Christian gentleman to the end. – D. P. EVA DEAN, WINSFORD EVA was born in 1948. She was a joyful, bubbly woman of God, whose life reflected Philippians 4:4: ‘Rejoice in the Lord always.’ Eva was a shining example to all who knew her, rejoicing throughout her life, even during difficult times.

Eva was promoted to Glory in August and is greatly missed. She is remembered with love and affection by family, friends and corps folk. – M. B.

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WE UPDATE OUR WEBSITE WEEKLY, GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO O Read through archived issues O Catch up on the news you missed O Read the Editor’s comment and our article of the week O Share archived issues with others

Like our page at facebook.com/ salvationistonline to keep up to date Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

REVIEWS

AN INSIGHT INTO THE MYSTERY OF LIFE War Cry Editorial Assistant Linda McTurk reviews The Mystery Of Matthew Gold by Chick Yuill

C

HICK Yuill provides a fresh insight into the mystery of life with his novel about a detective writer named Matthew Gold.

Chick takes readers on a journey through Matthew’s entire life. Afflicted from childhood by a crippling stammer, Matthew has always found it difficult to relate to other people. When he discovers a passion for reading detective books he becomes engrossed in the escapism that they offer.

Soon he develops a writing talent and begins to publish mystery stories of his own. People become enamoured with the confident and talented detective in his books – but in real life Matthew feels a far cry from his popular hero. His own life is shrouded in questions.

There is plenty in Chick’s novel to leave readers guessing, as the chapters unravel like a mystery story of their own. Whenever Matthew manages to get close to anyone, tragedy seems to get in the way. Despite

having fame and fortune, he still struggles to feel any wiser about his own life. But as different people challenge him to look beyond himself, he soon begins to discover how hope can still exist, even with the worst afflictions.

Chick does a great job of making the characters feel authentic. The descriptions of Matthew and the people around him are vivid and true to life. Impressively, Chick manages to address hard questions about suffering and grief without using a host of religious platitudes. Instead, he gives readers the opportunity to ponder questions on their own, providing meaningful thoughts and reflections throughout the book.

Ultimately, the novel is a tribute to the mystery of life in all its pain and beauty.

Matthew Gold feels like a real person because the questions that he asks, the pain that he feels and the hope that he is looking for resonate with us all.

O The Mystery Of Matthew Gold is available through the publisher’s website, instantapostle.com, priced £8.99 (paperback) and £5.99 (Kindle). All author royalties will be donated to the Christian relief and development charity All We Can

A POWERFUL AND INSPIRING LEGACY Lieut-Colonel Trevor Davis reviews A Gowans Legacy Volume 2 by the International Staff Songsters

I

T was not surprising, following the popularity of A Gowans Legacy – published three years ago – that a follow-up CD would ensue.

This CD contains a further 23 songs, 19 of them being compositions and arrangements of John Larsson. The four additional songs are the work of Richard Phillips, Andrew Blyth, Andrew Maycock and Ivor Bosanko. Groups of songs are included under these headings: Our

Loving Heavenly Father, Our Lord and Saviour, The Holy Spirit, Prayer (and Seeking), Worship (and Receiving), Dedication (and Transformation), and The Life to Come.

The ISS are in good form, as one expects, and so is their backing group.

Larsson has adapted the songs, which originated in the Gowans and Larsson musicals, and made them more suitable for multi-part vocal groups. However, they retain their distinctive characteristics as well as their natural flow and rhythm.

Many of the songs are included in the 2015 revision of The Song Book Of The Salvation Army, and those familiar with them will enjoy sitting back, listening to the music and following the words.

All the lyrics are included in the liner notes. ISS Leader Dorothy Nancekievill graciously adds her own tribute to those who have motivated and facilitated this recording, while John Larsson’s own comments introduce the first-rate booklet

that accompanies the CD. He also offers additional comments on each song.

Songs involve two artistic elements: music and poetry, and it is quite proper that the last comments in this review refer particularly to the poet-lyricist whose legacy is being acknowledged and celebrated.

The published words of John Gowans have been an inspiration to many during the decades of his ministry, and since.

His poetry and perception combine with his artistic and dramatic flair, making him able to impact powerfully on people through his writing.

Many a listener may choose now and again to simply sit and read the words.

Powerful and inspiring. A legacy, indeed!

A Gowans Legacy Volume 2 is available from SP&S priced £13.95 (plus postage and packing) and can be downloaded as individual tracks or a full album from spstunes.com

O

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ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 16 November 2019

22-23

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

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

CELIA WILCOCKSON Shoeburyness How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I worked in a hairdresser opposite the hall and I met a young man who worked there. We started to go out, and he introduced me to the youth club.

What made you want to join the Army?

After attending the corps for some time I began to question my beliefs. I came to accept Jesus as my Saviour and felt that my place to serve him was in The Salvation Army.

What did you do before retirement?

I started my career as a hairdresser, then after getting married and when my children were all at secondary school, I went into the care profession and looked after adults with learning disabilities.

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

I think it was Johnnie Ray’s Just Walkin’ In The Rain, released in 1956.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

Anywhere that has beautiful scenery.

I am not a sun-worshipper, but I do like the sea.

Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with thee; Thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not; As thou hast been thou for ever wilt be

(SASB 26)

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

I’d play Maria in The Sound Of Music, because I like to see children develop and mature.

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

Carry on and keep faith.

If you were in the Olympics, what sport would you compete in?

Swimming.

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

Water.

What is your favourite food?

Steak and kidney pudding with fresh vegetables.

Did you have a nickname growing up?

Cesal.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of Heaven and Earth’ (Psalm 121:1 and 2).

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

The apostle Paul, because he gives all humans hope that change is possible through Jesus. I’d ask how it felt to have an instant change in his faith.

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What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’ (SASB 26).

Is there something you’ve never understood?

Why some of God’s children in this world suffer so much.

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

Negative criticism.

What do you do in your spare time?

I help at the parent-and-toddler group, visit friends and solve sudoku.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I used to make my own clothes, and have made a few wedding and bridesmaid dresses for friends.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

Beyond Our Selves by Catherine Marshall.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Don’t forget that you can’t do everything, and that you need time for yourself.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

Apart from my Bible, my nan’s engagement ring. It was passed down to me by my mother, who wore it before me.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I am a grandmother of six children and I helped look after five of them when they were growing up. Now I am looking forward to being a great-grandmother for the first time.