IT seems fitting that, in the same month as the International Day of Families (15 May), Disney should release a live-action reimagining of its 2002 animated classic Lilo & Stitch, a wildly funny and touching story of a lonely Hawaiian girl and the fugitive alien who helps to mend her broken family.
There is much to love about this crazy story, and its central message can teach us a lot about the challenges of family and what makes us part of one – parents trying their best under difficult circumstances, children rebelling without knowing the full circumstances of their seemingly unfair situation but also developing a strong sense of what is right and an innate love for the stranger. It comes down to valuing belonging above all else.
One of the central quotes in the original film is the definition of the Hawaiian word ‘ohana’, which Stitch learns ‘means family and family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.’
In Ephesians 2:19, we read: ‘You are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.’
Who do you call family and how do you ensure that they feel like they belong?
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN
Editor
EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods
SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips
PROOFREADER Chris Horne
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DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
FOUNDERS Catherine and William Booth
INTERNATIONAL LEADERS
General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399. Published
Face to face with giants
As the FA Cup final kicks off, Lieutenant Luke Furlong reminds us that God is bigger than any opposition
TODAY, Crystal Palace will face off against Manchester City under the Wembley Arch in the 144th FA Cup final. The competition’s finale is one of the oldest and most prestigious events in the football calendar, with the winner set to receive the famous trophy and a ticket to compete in next season’s UEFA Europa League.
The road to the final is a long one! Beginning with a preliminary round involving 653 non-league clubs from the fifth to ninth tiers of English football, these teams compete for 32 coveted spots in the first round. Once the competition gets under way, these 32 non-league clubs are joined by the 48 clubs from League One and League Two. Then, 24 teams from the Championship and 20 teams from the Premier League drop in for the third round.
There’s something special about the FA Cup. It’s a tournament like no other and, from time to time, serves up some real David vs Goliath moments. It’s a competition where part-time amateurs who hold down day jobs as plumbers, builders, shop workers or teachers take to the pitch against the multi-millionpound elite of the Premier League, in the hopes of pulling off an infamous ‘giant killing’ and writing their names into the football history books.
While it would be unfair to call Crystal
Palace a footballing minnow, there is no escaping the fact that, on paper at least, they’re the underdogs in this year’s final, compared to the footballing giant that is Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.
In 1 Samuel 17, we read of the young David’s face-off with the giant Goliath. Scripture reminds us how David placed his complete trust in the God who called and anointed him, rather than in his own power and earthly strength.
Despite defeating Goliath, David continued to face other ‘giants’ throughout his life, and yet he knew that God was with him and so proclaimed: ‘The Lord is my rock, my protection, my Saviour. My God is my rock. I can run to him for safety. He is my shield and my saving strength, my defender’ (Psalm 18:2 New Century Version).
Although we may never step onto the turf at Wembley, there are giants that each of us face in our own day-to-day lives. These giants might be long-term physical or mental health concerns, employment worries, financial stress, relationship challenges, to name but a few. As someone who lives with a stammer, there are some days when this giant seems far too big. It’s in these moments we need to remember that, however big our giants may seem, God is so much bigger!
And so, as this year’s FA Cup reaches
Reflect and respond
Reflect on Psalm 18. What encouragement can you take from it into the week ahead?
Listen to ‘Every Giant Will Fall’ by Rend Collective or reflect on the lyrics: Every giant will fall, the mountains will move, Every chain of the past, you’ve broken in two.
Over fear, over lies, we’re singing the truth, That nothing is impossible with you.
What are the giants in your life you need to give over to God?
its conclusion – and Crystal Palace fans hope for their own giant killing – may each of us, like the young David, stand firm in the knowledge that, because of Jesus, the victory has already been won!
• Lieutenant Luke is the club chaplain at Newport IOW Football Club
LIEUTENANT LUKE FURLONG Corps Leader Isle of Wight
seconds with...
Lily Doyle Divisional Intergenerational Worker
Who are you and what do you do?
Hello! My name is Lily and I work for South West DHQ. I help to develop, celebrate and resource all-age practice within the division.
Why do you do what you do?
When I was studying, I learnt that young people stick with faith when they have at least five adults in the church who genuinely care about them. This opened my eyes up to what church family should look like – somewhere the differences we have are embraced and our communities are richer because of it.
What’s your favourite Bible passage?
Psalm 68:4–6. ‘God places the lonely in families’ is a comfort and a calling for me – God’s heart is all about community. I want to reflect that by creating spaces where no one feels isolated.
What’s your most-used phone app? I wish it wasn’t true, but I spend too much of my life on Instagram.
If you had an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?
Free petrol. Otherwise, probably cinnamon buns.
Which book – apart from the Bible – would you want on a desert island? I could finally finish The Chronicles of Narnia! (Does the bumper edition count as one book?)
What advice would you give to your younger self?
It’s OK you don’t know what you want to be when you grow up, just do the next right thing. And invest in your friendships – they’ll be your foundation.
‘I felt God’s presence with me’
Ken Kew
(Reading
Central), who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, shares how trusting God has stood him in good stead
I’M a third-generation Salvationist, the son of Army officers. Up until the age of 16, I was very shy, quiet and reserved. I didn’t know much about the real world, and it took me a while to become anxious about being a better Christian.
At the corps I belonged to, there was a gentleman in his fifties who, without question, I looked up to and respected. He was someone I could rely on and who I was happy to speak to about faith.
One day he told me to consider how far I had come in my experience of God. He would ring me every day to find out about my progress getting to know the Lord. Gradually, I began to realise there was more to life and that Jesus was with me. It hit me for six!
I was a pretty good trumpet and cornet player in the band. Music has always been my best way of expressing myself, and Army music has been part of my religious education.
As a young man, I attended the Royal Scottish Academy of Music to play under the trumpet players of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Then, unfortunately, the military came and took me away to the Second World War. Otherwise, my life might have been different altogether.
Two or three days after D-Day, I was deployed to Europe. When peace was declared, they wouldn’t demob me and
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
had me stay on for the Nuremberg Trials. I was in the Royal Corps of Signals and my job was to send military messages to the operators at Bletchley Park during the trials. I certainly felt God’s presence with me in the war.
During my training, I was very fortunate to be in a small unit with a very nice Methodist chap and we got very friendly. This friendship lasted the whole of the war, and 40 years later he turned up in Reading at a reunion!
My true vocation as a Salvationist has been as an encourager, and my advice to younger people in the Army is to encourage others. I’ve been so fortunate to have witnessed people touched by Christ and converted on the spot.
I want people to know what a wonderful life I have had due to the commitment I made when I was 16 to build a relationship with God. It has
Messy Togetherness
by Martyn Payne and Chris Barnett
Continuing an occasional series, Rachel Gotobed considers a book for reflection and discussion
THIS book is an enlightening exploration of both the why and how being all-age is the necessary default for all Messy Churches, and one of its essential values.
First published in 2016, I now realise how pioneering Messy Togetherness was when it comes to thinking about what all-age church looks like.
Although it has been updated to include more recent research, much of the original content remains and is still extremely relevant to the intergenerational culture that is being rediscovered by the worldwide Church.
Messy Togetherness is written in an easy-to-read style, yet is filled with opportunities to reflect on scriptural evidence, theological understanding and current research. Enabling the reader to explore why Messy Church is all-age, it then moves on to investigate how this is done by looking at togetherness through the Messy Church values of creativity, hospitality and celebration. Three session outlines then give churches an opportunity to discover how Messy Church is a shelter, a family and a home for all.
While intergenerational church may feel countercultural to many church congregations, this book offers helpful teaching on the intentionality required to deepen relationships across all generations. And it shows how –alongside participation that nurtures a shared faith experience where everyone worships and learns together – it is the biblical, holistic way for the body of Christ to live and grow as disciples.
It’s a must-read for all Messy Church leaders and anyone exploring what it means to be a truly intergenerational church.
RACHEL GOTOBED Outreach Mission Partner Family Ministries Department
CLOSE-UP READING
Page 28
If we want to see our Christian faith caught and nurtured today, those with faith need to be alongside those who are learning faith. The young need to be alongside the old so that they can hear and learn from those with experience of trusting God in all the ups and downs of life. The old need to be alongside the young, who can bring the gift of a lively spirituality and an eager sense of adventure when it comes to exploring the wonders of God’s creation and what faith in Jesus means.
REFLECT AND DISCUSS
Can you recall a time when coming alongside people of different ages helped your faith journey?
Where do you see an opportunity to do this in your life today?
CLOSE-UP READING
Page 53
The issue is this: yes, we can seem to learn more effectively and comfortably in segregated groups. But is learning what church is primarily about? If church is about loving God and loving each other and transforming the world in partnership with him and with each other, can we achieve that best by splitting up or learning to live together? If I cannot learn to cope with praying in church with a slightly smelly 80-year-old, a 15-year-old who is cleverer than I am, a toddler who wriggles or a woman who won’t stop weeping, what hope do I have of loving people outside the church?
REFLECT AND DISCUSS
What do you feel when you read this? Do you think it is true?
How can being part of a church family help you live with people of all ages in other areas of your life?
Listen!
Lieutenant Kat Whitmore considers the impact of responding to God’s call
1 SAMUEL 3
FOR anyone considering calling, a key question is: How do we hear God’s voice? At times, many of us may have said: ‘I just wish God would make it clearer!’ Or asked: ‘Why doesn’t God speak in obvious ways, like he did in biblical times?’ While, nowadays, we may not hear of God writing on walls, vocalising from burning bushes or leading crowds with pillars of smoke and fire, we believe that God is still communicating with us. He is still guiding and leading, and he is still calling his people.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How do we listen for God’s voice?
How can we tell who God is calling us to be?
How can we tell what God is asking us to do?
Our study passage begins with a bleak picture: ‘In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions… Eli … could barely see’ (vv1 and 2). Unable to convince his own sons to live well, Eli had become an ineffectual leader who was out of practice at hearing the voice of God. However, the situation was about to change because of one person – Samuel. God chose Samuel, who ‘ministered before the Lord under Eli’ (v1), to hear and deliver an important message.
Why did the Lord choose Samuel? Might it be because, in stark contrast to Eli, Samuel was ready? Samuel postured and positioned himself in such a way that he was prepared – knowingly or otherwise – to hear from God.
Samuel slept ‘in the house of the Lord, where the ark of God was’ (v3). The ark signified the presence of God. Samuel positioned himself near it in the inner sanctuary of the Temple. Even as he slept, he purposefully stayed within the presence of God. There, Samuel showed willingness to respond, even though he didn’t know to whom he would be responding.
When he first heard his name, he ran to Eli and said: ‘Here I am; you called me’ (v5). Unlike Eli, whose weakening eyes may be symbolic of his failure to see and hear God, Samuel was ready and responsive. Remaining close to God – abiding in God’s presence – puts us in a position to be ready to hear and respond when God calls our name.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How are you positioned? How close and ready are you to hear from God?
How can you ensure the conditions in and around you are right so that, when God speaks, you will hear him?
We go on to read that Samuel wasn’t trained in hearing God’s voice. Hearing the Lord speak to him was a new experience. He had neither learnt that skill nor been told how God might communicate with him. Samuel needed input and support from someone with experience to guide him through that first encounter.
Despite his initial lack of recognition, Eli was able to coach Samuel through the experience, pointing out that it was God who called Samuel.
It can feel like there is so much mystery around listening for God’s voice. I wonder if we talked more about it and shared our
experiences and practices, whether we would all feel more equipped to listen to God, and to know with confidence when he is speaking.
A child growing in their faith recently said to me: ‘God just doesn’t talk to me.’ Realising that they had been expecting an audible voice, we went on to talk about the many different ways God speaks – through the Bible, through the words and actions of other people, through experiences such as physical movement, music and nature, through our imaginations, through visions – and the idea of hearing from God began to be demystified. God is speaking to us all, but we may need to learn how to listen.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How did you learn to hear God’s voice?
What are the ways God speaks to you? If you aren’t sure, who could guide you and offer their wisdom?
Who could you encourage to listen for God’s voice?
Who could learn from your experience or wisdom?
Our openness to hearing God’s voice is important. We recognise Samuel’s willingness when he hears his name being called. First, ‘here I am’ (v4) and, later, ‘speak, for your servant is listening’ (v10). Samuel not only placed himself close to God, but also had open ears. Once he understood that it was God calling him, he invited God to speak further. It was then that God could reveal the full message to Samuel.
The message that Samuel had to deliver to Eli was difficult. However, he obediently shared with Eli all that the Lord had told him, and the message was received.
In fact, Samuel’s listening and responding to God’s calling resulted in change throughout Shiloh. Before, the word of the Lord had been rare. However, after Samuel learnt to listen, we’re told: ‘The Lord continued to appear at Shiloh’ (v21). The messages Samuel delivered never fell to the ground (see v19) and, in turn, his words impacted all of Israel (see 1 Samuel 4:1). One person’s willingness to listen for the voice of God changed things for the whole community.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What is our response when God speaks?
How easy is it to say ‘here I am’ when God asks us to be, say or do something difficult?
One person’s listening and responding can affect a whole community. What does that mean for us?
What has God been saying to you through this passage? How will you respond?
A shortened version of Prayer Matters will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist in 2025. To read the full, unedited booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 17 MAY: CARE FOR CREATION – SUPER SPACE!
Thank you, God, for making the sun that gives our world warmth and light. Thank you, God, that you made our wonderful world. Please help us to look after it and each other.
Two disciples walk together trying to make sense of it all when Jesus joins them. This seems to open their minds and rekindle their hearts. Will you allow Jesus to open your mind and rekindle your heart?
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler
Room Team)
MONDAY 19 MAY: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – SOUTH WEST DIVISION
Great things are happening around the division. But there’s an increasing number of corps without officers or spiritual leadership, which puts them in a fragile position. We have various leadership opportunities and some paid spiritual leaders and a local leaders’ retreat weekend to equip and support them, but we need more. by Major Gill Billard (Divisional Leader)
TUESDAY 20 MAY: SERVING AND CARING – SALVATIONIST MAGAZINE
Lord, thank you for the talents you have given the Salvationist team to tell the story of your love in action through The Salvation Army and all who belong to it. Guide them as they listen to you and seek out the voices you are raising up. Equip them as they nurture disciples who will Step Up and Stand Out. Inspire them as they encourage, challenge and include everyone connected with the Army in living out our shared vision, mission and values.
by Ivan Radford (Managing Editor, Salvationist)
WEDNESDAY 21 MAY: GROWING IN FAITH – SALVATIONIST RADIO
Thank you, Lord, for the team preparing shows and podcasts each week. Thank you for the musicians and recording engineers who enable Salvation Army and other Christian music to be broadcast 24/7. We pray for our listeners, from the five-yearold dancing to Morning Praise with Kids Alive! to the 95-year-old tuning in to Sunday Worship because they can’t attend a corps. May our broadcasting bring hope and lead people to Jesus.
THURSDAY 22 MAY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – SPAIN AND PORTUGAL TERRITORY
Give thanks for those who give their time and energy to preach the gospel, care for those in need and speak out for justice. Pray the Holy Spirit will breathe fresh life into every part of the Army’s worship and service in Portugal, Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler
Room Team)
FRIDAY 23 MAY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – BRIDGING DIVIDES
Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary THQ
Discussions on assisted suicide and welfare reform often fuel division and hostility. Pray for respectful dialogue, displaying wisdom and grace. May Christian leaders speak with clarity and compassion; may the Church remain united in seeking justice; may politicians work together to find solutions that serve the common good.
by Captain John Clifton (Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Officer)
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.
Mucking in together!
Messy Church Ministry Lead Aike Kennett-Brown talks about the growth of Messy Church
How did Messy Church start?
Lucy Moore started it in 2004 because, while her community had lots of children and families, they weren’t coming to church. So they tried something different.
What is Messy Church?
It’s an expression of church based on five key values. It’s Christ-centred – it’s not just a club. It’s for all ages – it’s a common misconception that Messy Church is for children. It’s creative –reflecting God’s creativity in a handson approach to church. It demonstrates hospitality – there’s always a meal provided, as it’s about being accessible and welcoming people who wouldn’t regularly come to church. And it’s a celebration – reflecting the joy of fullness of life with God.
Why does it work?
While we see the Holy Spirit working through it to build God’s Kingdom. I think it’s partly because it’s adaptable to your context and your community’s needs. It helps us to think about how
we do church and ask if we need to change it. We grow best as a church when we spend time and journey together. It also provides a valuable space where people can ask questions – kids are often happier to have honest conversations about faith and can help open parents up to have those too.
What does a typical Messy Church look like?
While we produce resources for leaders, it looks different in different places. As long as you can see those five values in it, it’s Messy Church. A survey in 2024 showed the average group is 42 people, but they come in all shapes and sizes. They meet in churches, schools, community spaces. Mine meets in a Church of England school garden on Greenwich Peninsula.
How many are there?
We had about 1,400 Messy Churches in 2022. Since then, as churches use it to reconnect with families after the Covid-19 pandemic, that’s grown to about 1,770. Not everyone is registered officially, so it’s likely higher than that.
Have families’ needs changed over time?
I think the cost of living crisis is biting hard. In some areas, Messy Church is successful partly because it offers food and that’s a starting point for families. Some families are looking for family time – they spend all week apart and want to be together and worship together. Others might need flexibility of when the best time to meet is for them – whether that’s after school or on a Saturday afternoon. At the Messy Church I help with, it’s surrounded by housing where people don’t have gardens, so we’re doing lots of growing in raised beds. Part of that is introducing people to God’s amazing creation. Again, it depends on your context. The key thing is to listen to your community to find out what the local needs are.
How can we be more intergenerational?
There’s a fantastic book called Being an Intergenerational Church, which says start with the who rather than the how. Who is it that we are honouring and serving? Are we being disciples so that we can disciple others?
The next step is being intentional –you can have different generations in the same room, but you have to create the space and moments for them to interact.
Then it’s about relationships – for an intergenerational community to flourish, we have to model loving God and each other. We have to be humble – the default is for adults to hold the power, so it’s good to give that power to those who are young in your church, in a way that apprentices and supports them.
Having all generations involved is key at all stages – in the planning, the participation and the hosting. Even when getting feedback, who are you asking? Where is God at work?
How can people start Messy Church where they are?
We host free online masterclasses each month. Find out more about those and our book Starting Your Messy Church at messychurch.brf.org.uk
What’s next for Messy Church?
A survey last year found Messy Church is brilliant for families with primary school children, but half of Messy Churches don’t have any secondary school children. How can we journey with families at that transition point and encourage those young people in particular? We’re about to launch a project called Messy Momentum exploring that – we’re looking to recruit 25 to 30 pilot groups this summer, which any Messy Church can sign up to. For more information or to join a launch meeting in June or July, visit messychurch.brf.org.uk/projects/ messy-momentum.
Family in-tent!
Captain
Major
Wendy Watkins
(Hadleigh
Farm Estate)
talks to
Lynne Shaw about the impact family camps can have
How did Hadleigh Farm’s family camp come about?
It was a seed idea. We previously ran a youth camp in Hadleigh, so we knew it was possible. In 2019, we got about 40 people together. It was the windiest weekend possible, but it was amazing. We planned to try again the next year, but the Covid-19 pandemic happened! In 2021, we tried again and had 80 people in a field with us. The next year it grew again, and we did two camps back-toback with 160 people from local corps.
What does family camp look like?
When we say family camp, we mean family in the broadest sense: single people, older people, babies, single parents, refugees, everyone – the intergenerational family of God. We hold on to the name ‘family camp’ on purpose, because it’s definitely not about the nuclear family, it’s about the family of God – from the edge to the middle, you’re included!
The principle was that we would create a space where corps could come for four days to build deep relationships. We’ve seen people come to church and even get married on the back of coming to camp. It’s also a gift for leaders, as they
don’t have to think about what everyone is going to eat or what they’re going to do, because that’s all organised for you.
What’s it like at a family camp?
Everything is optional, so you don’t have to do any of it if you don’t want to. But we have a programme of activities that people can get involved in, from kayaking to mountain biking on the London 2012 Olympic Legacy site to exploring the farm and tearoom. You can play games at the castle or join in a silent disco or a ceilidh. If you’ve got toddlers, we have story time and singing sessions.
We turn one of the tents into a discovery den, where people can find out more about Jesus. People tell stories to each other, including people who’ve never shared a Jesus story, and we facilitate discovery by making a beautiful space.
When William Booth bought this land, his vision was to use it for ‘Whitechapelby-the-Sea’ so people could holiday here. We’ve adapted that vision, and this is what it looks like today.
We have amazing conversations around the fire, and we have lots of activities. But we also have times for nothing; people can enjoy the space, enjoy sitting together, enjoy talking
about life and faith. And it really works! It’s a celebration!
How has Hadleigh’s campsite developed?
We made a big investment this year: we now have our own unisex toilet and shower cubicles, all facing the camp, including an accessible shower and toilet and a long path! It’s made the field into a proper campsite. We’ve also got a yurt going up to create a spiritual space for encounter.
What’s your vision for family camps?
We hope that other people will see the benefits and be inspired to hold their own family camps. We’ve tried it, we’ve tested it, and we have something we think others could run with.
How can other divisions start their own family camps?
I’ve been working with the East of England DHQ and the Family Ministries team to invite other divisions to try a pilot camp. This could be at the Hadleigh Farm campsite or using our resources in their own locations. To find out more, email familyministries@salvationarmy.org.uk.
R The original Get Outside with Toddlers! resources were put together by Captains Nick and Shelley Ward (Mitcham) while they were at Middlesbrough. They wanted to maintain their good connections with their parent-andtoddler families during the Covid-19 pandemic. These resources have now been revised, rebranded and relaunched for the post-pandemic territory.
What’s included in the relaunch?
R New material for 2025 includes an Easter session and a six-session series called Love the Earth, which reflects the Army’s care for creation mission priority by connecting with the story of Creation.
What does it look like to Get OWT!?
R It can be as often or as infrequent as required – as a one-off, a regular feature or during school holidays. It can work well in different settings and is easily adapted for older children.
E At Carshalton, we did Get OWT! all year round, with between 50 and 70 children attending every week. When it’s colder we run Create and Play, which is a Get OWT! session at our hall with activities indoors and in our outdoor space. This year, we plan to host six sessions over summer and a weekly Thursday session. We ran it on a Sunday once, which was amazing because we engaged with a totally different community. Sundays are a quieter day for families, and we found that parents came and engaged. The dads really liked it and built a little community of their own. I’d love to explore the idea of doing it regularly on Sunday mornings.
Why are these resources relevant at the moment?
E The concept of outdoor play is fashionable right now. It appeals to families. That includes families that the Army hasn’t historically connected with, such as those who don’t have an urgent point of need. For some parents, Get OWT! is a way to do activities they might not try at home.
Children are spending much less time outdoors, even those with gardens. We’re recognising the effect that has on mental wellbeing and motor skills.
R It’s holistic for the whole person: body, mind and spirit. As a team, Family Ministries wants to encourage families to be outside together and to join in doing something in God’s creation.
Why do families come to Get OWT! sessions?
E Get OWT! offers something different. At Carshalton, our shared outdoor space meant people could enjoy nature and connect with other families. It created a memorable experience for parents and children.
There’s a feel-good factor because you’ve done something worthwhile. Parents can disconnect from the distractions of daily life and spend quality time with their children.
And, being in the park, new families are discovering us. It’s a great way to connect with families outside your hall.
• Do you want to get outside with toddlers? Find out more at salvationist.org.uk/get-owt or email familyministries@salvationarmy.org.uk
Why I
Laura
My little girl is always so excited by the activities. Get OWT! is so different from other toddler groups and it’s perfect for learning and social development.
It’s such a relief to get outside and connect with people and nature. I cannot thank everyone enough for the priceless memories we’re making in the woods I used to play in throughout my own childhood.
Captains Nick and Shelley Ward (Mitcham)
We have two young children of our own. Often, we just need to get out of the house. Getting outside and interacting in nature’s playground is so important.
We usually set up five to eight activities and always include a story time, some questions and songs. For us, this is a time to build community and celebrate together.
Lieutenant Beth Perkins (Maidstone)
We loved using Get OWT! during our summer placement. The best thing is its adaptability to different contexts. We wanted to maximise our use of it, so ended up running a week-long project in the park, effectively running a mini holiday club. The resources were easy to pick up, and the risk assessment was really helpful for getting park approval quickly.
One family who joined came along to Messy Church the following week, which we advertised as a follow-up event. The further impact of joining in God’s mission outside the church building will no doubt be more than we can measure!
Intergenerational togetherness
Major
Jo Moir celebrates the intergenerational opportunities
at Together 2025
TOGETHER 2025 at the ICC Birmingham promises to be a space for every generation to celebrate, learn and reflect. The theme of the weekend (11–13 July) is Mission 160: From Generation to Generation and will focus on mission and the call we have to share God’s goodness with each generation (see Psalm 79:13), telling of his mighty acts and proclaiming his power (see Psalm 145:4).
What does it mean to be genuinely intergenerational?
I belong
The first core belief of intergenerational ministry states that everyone has a place and can feel that they belong. Being part of an event, no matter our age, being included in the planning and advocated for by those in leadership is at the heart of Together. With separate spaces as well as inclusive worship across the weekend, free tickets for children to enable families to attend more easily and live-streamed celebrations, our prayer is that everyone truly feels part of the weekend.
I am needed
At the heart of Together is participation rather than spectating, a desire for all those who engage in the weekend to connect on a deeper level. The teams involved in planning the weekend are working to include groups from across the United Kingdom and Ireland, of all ages and expressions of The Salvation Army. For anyone unable to join with us in person, we will be building on last year’s Together at Home concept with even more ways to be essential to the weekend wherever you are – whether that’s through the Together 2025 issue of Salvationist, live-streaming from home, holding a watch party at your corps or other ways of participating. More details about Together at Home and timings for the live-streamed events will be available soon.
I can learn from everyone
When we think of the phrase ‘from generation to generation’, we often consider older generations passing down
knowledge and wisdom to younger generations, but within intergenerational ministry there are so many ways to explore journeying together as disciples. How can we learn from our young people? How can children inspire and teach us? How can we truly learn from each other? Finding ways to listen to the voices of others is a key element of intergenerational ministry and that is at the heart of Together.
Life is fuller when we journey with people of different generations
The final core belief of intergenerational ministry focuses on the fruit of engaging and including people of all ages in worship and ministry – our lives are enriched by it. Far from being a mere gimmick or fad, intergenerational ministry when
embraced intentionally can make all our gatherings – from informal get-togethers, picnics and Sunday worship to large events – fuller and more enriching.
To find out more about intergenerational ministry, go to salvationist.org.uk/familyministries or email familyministries@ salvationarmy.org.uk
• Tickets are on sale now for Together 2025 at salvationist.org.uk/together
MAJOR JO MOIR Territorial Communications Officer
Pictures: Paul Harmer
Cheltenham Where church is family
A sense of belonging
We arrived in Cheltenham as corps leaders last July and were delighted to find a warm, welcoming, established fellowship. Intergenerational Christian values and culture were already embedded here, along with a real sense of family. The corps is in the town centre and includes a diverse mix of ages, ethnicities, backgrounds and stages of faith.
In a time of listening since arriving here, it has emerged that there is a need for a safe space where people can gather and be part of our family, be supported and have fun. The Gathering Place will be our new after-school drop-in, with opportunities to learn new skills, find support, share food and get help with homework.
‘I Am’ for women
Linked to our ‘I Am’ women’s group, 57 women between 14 and 80 years of age attended our recent women’s conference. It was a beautiful day of learning, reflecting, chatting, eating and worshipping. It was family in a different context, with women journeying together and generations learning from each other.
Reciprocal discipling
We’re bringing generations together and developing intergenerational values through intentional discussion. We want the whole church to see their roles in discipling and to be intentional in having faith conversations with each other. Once a month we enjoy intergenerational worship, and on other weeks we have time in age-specific groups.
We’re starting an Alpha Youth course soon, and we embrace our positive role models. Our young people are not just connecting with one or two youth workers but the wider church family. It’s a two-way relationship; the young people give as much to the older generations as they receive.
The Army’s mission priorities of nurturing disciples and serving others without discrimination resonate with us. We want to nurture our church family
first so that they are equipped for outreach and sharing the good news with others.
Family in all formats
For us, the whole church is family, not the stereotypical family unit or folk who attend on Sundays. We’re all part of the extended family of God. It’s like the Hawaiian idea of ‘ohana’ – the connectedness of a wider circle of people where no one gets left behind.
Our Jingle Tots parent-and-toddler group meets twice a week and the volunteers are like family members to those in the group. They genuinely care and are family figures, keeping in touch and building relationships beyond sessions.
We run Beavers and Cubs and are praying for resources to add Squirrels and Scouts in the future.
We have a flourishing Cameo group, which involves generations having fun, sharing life and being reminded of the truths of Scripture.
We actively encourage people to give things a go. For example, we have grandparent figures who volunteer at our Friday night youth drop-in. We want to reveal opportunities for people to give of themselves, even if they don’t think they have anything to offer.
We’re mindful of the language we use around ideas of family and seek to develop the use of prayer partners and mentors. We regularly share
home-cooked meals together around a table as a church family.
As church leaders with young children, we don’t have our own families near us, so the church is our family and support network. We benefit so much from them, and we’ve experienced the love and welcome. We know it for ourselves and want others to join and be a part of the family.
It’s all about sharing life and the love of Jesus together!
Fast Facts
DIVISION South West CORPS LEADERS
Captains Rachel and Tom Dunham FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/ salvationarmycheltenham
God’s way with me
Three delegates from the 261st session at the International College for Officers share their testimonies
Major Iveta Charão Brazil Territory
I HAVE been an officer for 16 years, all in corps appointments. Currently, I am in Piraí do Sul, Paraná. My experience at the ICO has been wonderful, and it is the realisation of a dream.
I can sense God’s presence in everything, and I see him taking care of every detail because his will is good, pleasing and perfect. I’m thankful to the Lord for preparing this time for me here. I have met friends who have touched my heart, and these friendships will last a lifetime. My time here at the ICO is a gift from God.
I have met officers from all over the world, with many different accents, and yet we were able to understand each other. This is only possible in the presence of the Lord. A moment that was very special for me was the day when we all prayed together, everyone in their own language. It gave me a glimpse of what Heaven will be like.
Another memorable occasion was when we went on the East End tour. It was so interesting and informative as we learnt more of the history of The Salvation Army and visited some of the early sites and I began to understand more of those early days of our Movement.
The one memory I will treasure was in Abney Park Cemetery, where we stood at the grave of Catherine and William Booth and sang ‘O Boundless Salvation!’ It was such an emotional moment.
Through the lectures, morning prayers, sermons and meetings, God has been speaking to my heart.
I remember a song that God used to recall to my mind:
Just where he needs me, My Lord has placed me. Just where he needs me, There would I be!
And since he found me, By love he’s bound me. To serve him joyfully.
(SASB 944)
These lyrics echo my desire to do God’s will for my life.
Psalm 126:3 says: ‘The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.’ And I move forward into the future singing: ‘I’m in his hands, I’m in his hands;/ Whate’er the future holds/ I’m in his hands,/ The days I cannot see/ Have all been planned for me;/ His way is best, you see;/ I’m in his hands’ (SASB 848).
To God be all the glory! And thank you Salvation Army!
Captain Junius Pakaya Indonesia Territory
I AM currently the corps officer of Batam Corps in the North Sumatra Division.
I am grateful to God for the opportunity given to me to participate in ICO session 261. Initially, I never thought it would be possible for me to attend as my English is limited but, praise God, I was given this opportunity and made every effort to study hard so that I could get the most out of this experience.
1 Corinthians 2:9 has strengthened me with the words: ‘“What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” – the things God has prepared for those who love him.’
My ICO experience has brought back memories of my background and what God can do with a transformed life. I was not a believer in Jesus as my father was, and still is, a Muslim. However, through an encounter with The Salvation Army – while studying at the Salvation Army nursing academy in Palu in 2008 –I was guided by a lecturer to accept Jesus as my personal Lord and Saviour. This was the beginning
of my life following Jesus.
After completing my studies, I decided to surrender myself to fully serve God as an officer in The Salvation Army. I was then taken through the process of candidateship, cadetship and finally commissioned as an officer and I now celebrate my 11th year of service.
The opportunity to participate in the ICO is rare, and not all officers get this opportunity. Therefore it’s my prayer that, throughout this experience, God will put in my heart love, Christlike thoughts and attitude, and that Christ will always be reflected in my life.
The ICO experience has taught me to be more enthusiastic in serving and more courageous in making decisions, living in holiness, commitment and consistency in carrying out this ministry, and managing time well so that no time is wasted, and creating a space to be with God.
I value the encouragement I have received through the lectures but, above all, I value the encouragement to reflect Christ in ministry and mission.
Hallelujah!
Major Noluntu Semeno Southern Africa Territory
MY current appointment is Social Programme Secretary, Strategic Plan Coordinator, and Territorial Statistician.
With 25 years of service as an officer of The Salvation Army, my heart overflows with gratitude for this transformative journey. Triumphs and challenges have both marked my path, but God’s faithfulness has upheld me through every step. His presence in my life has been unwavering, a constant source of strength and guidance.
My time at the ICO has been a profound period of healing and renewal. Within the first three weeks, I’ve experienced restoration from the scars borne from ministry’s struggles. These trials were not meant to harm me but to refine and prepare me for God’s purpose. As the psalmist beautifully states: ‘Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path’ (Psalm 119:105).
Session 261 has brought together officers from around the world, each with an open heart eager to encounter God. What began as a gathering of strangers quickly transformed into
What is the ICO?
Located at Sunbury Court, the ICO exists to further officers’ personal and leadership development. It provides an environment for them to flourish spiritually through teaching, prayer, worship and fellowship.
a community of deep connection and fellowship. Within just 10 days, we have bonded through quiet, reflective meals and vibrant conversations filled with laughter. Structured activities – such as reflection groups, games, zonal groups, prayer partner sessions and evening walks – have fostered meaningful interactions and built lifelong relationships.
The shared moments of tears and joy have united us in such a way that we can sense when someone is missing from the group. These connections reflect the beauty of God’s Kingdom – a global family brought together by his love.
My time at the ICO is a testament to God’s provision and grace. When I leave, I will carry with me not only renewed strength but also a wealth of knowledge and skill. I am eager to use these to serve his people more effectively and spread the message of hope and salvation.
Looking ahead, my heart brims with anticipation for the opportunities and challenges to come. With unwavering faith, I trust in God’s wisdom and strength to guide me.
May his love shine through all my actions as I strive to advance his Kingdom and glorify his name in every endeavour.
Army survey highlights assisted suicide fears
THQ
RESEARCH by The Salvation Army has highlighted the fears that people have about the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.
The survey, which was carried out by YouGov, found that more than half of people across the UK think that some vulnerable adults could feel pressure to end their life early.
While 78 per cent of people generally support the idea of assisted dying, the majority do not support loopholes in the proposed Bill that would allow vulnerable groups to apply to die.
The research found that 63 per cent of adults think that assisted dying should not be allowed for someone whose primary reason is that they feel like a burden on their families or the NHS. It also found that 55 per cent of adults think that assisted dying should not be allowed for adults who have suffered a mental illness that has affected their physical health, such as anorexia.
The survey also uncovered concerns that legalising assisted dying would put many vulnerable people at greater risk of being pressured into applying to die, including older people (63 per cent), people with a disability (58 per cent) and people with mental health issues (56 per cent).
The research showed strong support for rejected amendments that would have acted as safety measures.
Territorial Leader Commissioner Paul Main said: ‘Everyone agrees that people should have relief and dignity in their final days but this survey shows that the public are concerned that the legislation will not provide that.
‘Even those who support the principle of assisted dying admit that particularly vulnerable groups are at risk of pressure should the Bill become law. Beneath widespread sympathy lies a deep unease about how such legislation could expose the most vulnerable to harm, coercion or abandonment.’
‘Though this legislation stems from a sincere desire to alleviate suffering, we are urging MPs to vote against the Bill,’ he continued. ‘We are gravely concerned that the Bill inadvertently creates a two-tier system of death. It is terrifying to face terminal illness without palliative care but if you cannot access the support that can help alleviate suffering, you may feel you have no choice but to ask for an assisted suicide.’ – AR
• To read more or write to your MP raising your concerns, visit salvationist.org.uk/assisted-suicide.
EASTER
WELLING The corps gave out more than 400 Easter goody bags, hosted a townwide Easter egg hunt and ran activities at the lunch club and pantry. The corps was delighted to see so many smiles and was overjoyed by the help from volunteers and community friends. – KS
EASTER
WICK Following a Maundy Thursday supper, divisional leaders Major Gillian Jackson and Major Steve Dutfield led Easter celebrations. Good Friday focused on Jesus before Pilate. Easter Day included Major Steve speaking as if he were Peter, explaining his thoughts and actions around the denial of Jesus, the Crucifixion and the Resurrection. A weekend of real blessing. – GH
FUNDRAISING
SNOWDONIA Seven-year-old River raised £500 for the Army’s homelessness services by climbing Mount Snowdon, smashing his original target of £50. Motivated by the struggles of rough sleepers in London, River explained: ‘I wanted them to have help and somewhere safe to sleep.’ – AR
Louise Brookes and Stephanie Bindeman enhance Easter celebrations at Ipswich Citadel with Lego dioramas and a floral display
EASTER
Woodhouse Corps lead Churches Together in reflection and contemplation on Good Friday
EASTER
EASTER
LEIGH-ON-SEA Holy Week included daily features led by the Rev Steve Mayo, the band and songsters, Captain Claire Whybrow (Hadleigh Farm Estate), Gordon and Margaret Parkhill, Major Graham Slader (THQ) and corps leaders Captain Clare and Major Rob Davis. Easter Day commenced with a sunrise service supported by members from local churches. This was followed by a shared breakfast and fellowship at the hall. – PJ
EASTER
CIRENCESTER Visitors were welcomed to a Maundy Thursday meeting, with music and readings illustrating the Easter story, interspersed with video links and contributions from the band, songsters and worship group. On Good Friday, members of the corps joined a united service at Cirencester Parish Church, with corps leader Major Bryan Lang and Corps Treasurer Mark Walters presenting readings. After the service, a walk of witness took place to the beat of the Army drum. An open-air service was held in the marketplace and hot cross buns were distributed to the stall holders, customers and passers-by who stopped to join in. The rain and gloom of Good Friday turned to bright sunshine for Easter Day. After the morning meeting, the band played Easter music in the marketplace. Copies of War Cry and Kids Alive! and Easter eggs were distributed. – MG
COMMUNITY
ST ALBANS Soldiers Keith and Manuela Perry have established a group for Ukrainian refugees living in Hertfordshire. The group provides space to share information and personal experiences, enjoy Ukrainian food, teach children about the history and culture of their homeland, and more. – BH
EASTER
A celebration of faith, hope and love STAINES
GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham visited the corps for a deeply meaningful and Spirit-filled Easter weekend.
Under the prayerful leadership of corps leader Major Val Mylechreest, it was marked by powerful ministry and heartfelt worship.
On Maundy Thursday evening, Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main attended a beautiful presentation of Easter music by the band and songsters, which prepared people’s hearts for the sacred days ahead.
On Good Friday morning, Commissioner Bronwyn brought a reflective message, drawing people to the foot of the cross. The junior band provided music at the Ashford open-air service while the special guests and the band led a walk of witness through the town to the Churches Together open-air service. General Lyndon proclaimed the hope of the gospel in the public square. It was a powerful moment of hope-filled witness and unity with other churches.
An afternoon service included a moving testimony from adherent Jeannie Saha-Cook. The General reminded everyone of the price Jesus paid for our salvation and challenged everyone to step out of the shadows and into the light of God’s saving grace.
Easter Day was a joyful celebration. The General shared his personal testimony, offering a heartfelt glimpse into his own walk of faith and God’s continued faithfulness. Commissioner Bronwyn preached a vibrant message, reinforcing the central message of hope and resurrection through Christ. In a time of dedication, many responded. Throughout the weekend, the international leaders –supported by Major Chris Mulryne (IHQ) – ministered with warmth, humility and genuine love. – CT
EASTER
MERTHYR TYDFIL The corps gave 170 Easter eggs to a local food bank, helped by donations from a nearby factory. An open-air meeting in the shopping precinct was well received, and Easter eggs and hot cross buns were given to shoppers who stopped to listen to the message. – LB
International appointments
The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff Effective 1 May
COLONELS FRIDAY AND GLORY AYANAM, Territorial Leaders in the Nigeria Territory, promoted to the rank of commissioner; Colonel Friday Ayanam on 1 May and Colonel Glory Ayanam on 2 May
COLONELS DANIEL AND ANNE KIAMA , Territorial Leaders in the Kenya East Territory, promoted to the rank of commissioner; Colonel Anne Kiama on 3 May and Colonel Daniel Kiama on 4 May
COLONELS GEOFF AND KALIE WEBB, Territorial Leaders in the Kenya West Territory, promoted to the rank of commissioner; Colonel Geoff Webb on 5 May and Colonel Kalie Webb on 6 May Effective 1 August
LIEUT-COLONEL SANDRA STOKES, officer of the Canada and Bermuda Territory, as Territorial Commander, Denmark and Greenland Territory
MAJORS TERO AND METTI SAAJORANTA , officers of the Finland and Estonia Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Finland and Estonia Territory Wedding anniversaries
Emerald (55 years)
MAJORS ALIVE AND BRYAN SNELL on 30 May
Dedicated to God
LUCAS CELYN BRILL , son of Lieutenant Dean and Captain Emily Brill, at Malton by Lieut‑Colonel Jane Cowell, Major Jonathan and Captain Sam Hamilton
EXCELLENT EHIMWENMA EDOKPOLOR , son of Elvis and Grace Edokpolor, at Clacton on Sea by Major Katerina Lennox
Promoted to Glory
CHRISTINE PILGRIM, Eastbourne Citadel
MAJOR ANTONY CLIFTON from the Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, on 26 April
SONGSTER CHRISTINE GARRAD, Louth, on 1 May
Bereaved
PETER PILGRIM, Eastbourne Citadel, of his wife Christine Pilgrim, Pip Dickinson, Woodhouse, of her sister
MAJOR HEATHER CLIFTON of her husband
Major Antony Clifton, Hannah Maryon, Wigan, Kirstie McEnhill, Gavin Clifton and Karl Clifton of their father
NICK DUNK, Staple Hill, of his father William Dunk
MAJOR DAVID GARRAD, Brenda Short , Louth, Richard Garrad, Boston, and Lieut-Colonel Rob Garrad of their sister Songster Christine Garrad
Retirements from active service
Effective 1 May
MAJOR KEITH SEBBAGE out of Upper Norwood in 1985 and Major Jan Sebbage (née Timms) out of Rugby in 1985 and last appointment Long Eaton
MAJOR VINCENT WALL out of Dinnington in 2002 and last appointment Ripley
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Sun 18 May Sunbury Court (ICO Spiritual Day)
Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill Mon 19 May – Thu 22 May USA National Headquarters
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Sun 18 May Brecon (Wales divisional celebration)
Tue 20 May – Wed 21 May Houben House and ROI Board Meeting* Sat 24 May Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls (Songs of Praise)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 17 May – Sun 18 May Bellshill (International Staff Songsters)**
*Commissioner Paul Main only
**Colonel Peter Forrest only
NOTICES
Songs
of Praise
Join with Salvationists and friends at Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls on Saturday 24 May at 2.45pm for a special recording of hymns and songs – and even some Christmas carols – as BBC One’s Songs of Praise marks The Salvation Army’s 160th anniversary. Tickets are free and, at the time of writing, a limited number are still available. Find out more and apply for tickets at lostintv.com/sop.htm
Take part in the Army’s global spiritual life survey!
A new survey is setting out to better understand the spiritual life of the international Salvation Army, to identify where the Army is thriving spiritually and where growth is needed. You are invited to respond thoughtfully and honestly. There is no age limit: your experience matters and every response will help create a fuller picture. Please also encourage others in your family and your corps community to take part, whether the Army is their spiritual home, place of worship or place of work, or if they attend programmes or receive support. Responses are anonymous and will be analysed by the spiritual life development team at IHQ. A report of the findings will be shared in the autumn. The survey is available in multiple languages and the deadline for responses is 22 June. Take part at sar.my/spirituallife While an online survey will reach many people, focus groups will make it accessible to anyone unable to participate in online research – for more information, contact Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Lieut Colonel Jayne Roberts at jayne.roberts@salvationarmy.org.uk
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Captain Rob Westwood Payne (Maidenhead). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Me and My Playlist
This Salvationist Radio show sees a young person linked to The Salvation Army share five tracks they love. This month’s episode features Michael Gwazai (Bexleyheath). Listen to the podcast and Spotify playlist each month.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
MIN was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader Major Geoff Chape. Min first contacted the corps when he was looking for a band to play his bass in. First attending rehearsals, then on Sundays, Min found faith and made his decision to become an adherent. He has entered church life with real enthusiasm and spoke of how much he appreciated those who have spent time encouraging and helping him. Also pictured are Commissioner Susan MacMillan, who has been a great support to Min, and Robin Moorwood holding the flag. – LC
DISS
ROBERT Mark, husband of corps leader Major Paula Mark, was enrolled as a soldier on Easter Day. Robert and Major Paula are pictured with Major David Young, who took Robert through recruits’ classes. – EH
AILEEN and Gordon Grant were welcomed as adherents on Palm Sunday by corps leader Major Peter Renshaw. Aileen and Gordon first attended a Christmas carol service two years ago and have become part of our church family. They testified to the warmth of fellowship at the corps and the blessing of Sunday worship. – PR
IN a joyful service, corps leader Captain Kathryn Stowers enrolled Deborah Hampson, Anvita William and Sylvia Newman as soldiers and welcomed Connor Rogers and Stuart Wadeson as adherents, and Sue Moyo rededicated her commitment to soldiership. Each of the new soldiers, who have come to the corps from as far afield as Delhi, Zimbabwe and Jamaica, testified that they found family and home in the corps fellowship and had seen God’s hand in their journeys, with more than one quoting Jeremiah 29:11–14. Pictured are Captain Kathryn, Deborah, Anvita, Colour Sergeant Brian James, Sylvia, Sue and Recruiting Sergeant Gordon Smith. – KS
OAKENGATES
THERE was great joy on Palm Sunday as Rosie Lowe and Cadence Dukes chose to enrich their commitment to God. Corps leader Territorial Envoy Linda Downward acknowledged their decision and prayed God’s blessing on them as they were welcomed as adherents. – AO
PAUL Webster was enrolled as a soldier on Easter Day by corps leader Major Peter Renshaw. Paul, who has been an adherent member for more than two years, testified to how the people of the corps had always gone the extra mile to support him. – PR
NEWPORT CITADEL
REGENT HALL
ABERDEEN CITADEL
God’s family is like a house and you are part of the building
