Salvationist 18 July 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1765 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 18 July 2020

A Commissioning like no other PAGES 10 TO 13

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

ENGLAND’S VULNERABLE TEENAGERS AT RISK OF ‘FALLING OFF THE RADAR’

LAST SUPPER WITH BLACK JESUS TO GRACE ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL

CHURCH OF ENGLAND AWARDS £24M IN GRANTS TO SPREAD FAITH IN DEPRIVED AREAS

Tens of thousands of vulnerable teenagers whose lives have been disrupted by Covid-19 are at risk of slipping out of education and becoming easy prey for criminal gangs, the children’s commissioner for England has warned.

Anne Longfield said more than 120,000 teenagers in England with a history of exclusion, persistent absence from school and periods missing from care could ‘fall off the radar’ without focused intervention as the country comes out of lockdown.

Many more will struggle to adapt to normality after six months out of school, with young people who have finished year 11 – the final year of secondary school – and those whose apprenticeships may have collapsed of particular concern, she said.

The commissioner’s report looked at the number of teenagers aged 13 to 17 in each local authority in England who were on the radar of schools and social care in 2017/18.

It found that 123,000 fell through gaps in provision, becoming invisible to services...

Longfield said it was vital to identify these young people and ‘do whatever it takes’ over the summer to stabilise their lives, calling on councils, schools, police and youth workers to work together, and summer schemes to be made available to the most vulnerable...

‘They need extra help now as we emerge from lockdown.’

A pastiche of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper that recasts Jesus as black is to be displayed above the altar of St Albans Cathedral in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.

The altarpiece at the 11th-century abbey will be replaced... with a highresolution print of a work by Lorna May Wadsworth, who based Jesus’ features on those of Tafari Hinds, a Jamaican model. The work, modelled on the original, depicts the disciples as ethnically diverse.

Wadsworth... said that she chose a black Jesus to ‘question the... myth that he had fair hair and blue eyes’...

The Very Rev Dr Jeffrey John, Dean of St Albans, said: ‘The church is not in a strong position to preach to others about justice, racial or otherwise, but our faith teaches that we are all made equally in the image of God.’

Several towns and cities in urban and deprived areas of England have got a major boost from the Church of England.

The Church has awarded £24 million in grants to spread the gospel through mission and evangelism, as well as social action projects.

In the North East, the diocese of Durham got a £4.2 million chunk of the money. As well as planting six new churches within five years, the church will be opening centres called ‘Communities of Hope’.

The centres will be for projects like food banks, community cafés, budget cookery classes and help with job hunting.

Rev Canon David Tomlinson, programme director for strategic growth in the diocese, told Premier it’s much needed in the area.

The Times

Premier

The Guardian

Premier

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GENERAL Brian Peddle

ONLY 1 IN 5 CHRISTIAN PARENTS THINK CHURCH SHOULD HAVE BIG ROLE IN CHILDREN’S MENTAL WELL-BEING A new study has found that only one in five Christian parents believe churches have a major responsibility to protect the mental health and well-being of their children.

The research, which was commissioned by Christian children’s charity World Vision UK and the non-profit fostering agency Northpoint Care, revealed that Christian parents were more likely to identify teachers (54 per cent) and their wider family (53 per cent) as being most responsible for their children’s mental health, outside of the parents themselves.

CEO of World Vision Mark Sheard told Premier [that] by dismissing the value of how churches can boost mental health, families are missing out.

‘Children’s well-being depends on three things. I think it depends on physical wellbeing and mental well-being. And somewhere in the midst of that... soul well-being and I think that the churches can bring a unique perspective on that... We know that faith communities and church leaders have a vital role to play.’

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EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Major Godspower Anozie – 020 7367 4893 ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 18 July 2020

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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, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

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CONTENTS

MAKING CONNECTIONS WHEN I was a cadet the chairs in the training college assembly hall were carefully arranged to be a few inches apart. It was the duty of one of the cadets to check this, and there was even a measuring stick to ensure it was done accurately.

I was never quite sure of the reason for this. Perhaps it was so we weren’t distracted by those either side of us or so that the staff on the platform could keep an eye on us more easily. But it may have unintentionally emphasised the point that when we come together in worship, although we are one body, we are still individuals whom God wants to deal with in a personal way.

Last Saturday, as reported on pages 10 to 13, Commissioning took place in that same assembly hall for the first time in its history. The cadets were not inches but metres apart, and their families and friends could not attend. It made for a highly unusual occasion, but as Principal Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne said, ‘The significance of these moments will not be lessened in any way by social distancing. In God’s Kingdom, miles and geography are not so important. The physical space that is between us today is completely filled with the love and power and presence of our Father.’ So it was. And helped by THQ’s Video Production Unit, families, friends and people across the world were able to share in a unique occasion.

While coronavirus restrictions have been in place the importance of making and keeping connections has become clearer. Despite the limitations and the distance, people have found ways to support others in need and to share the gospel.

Majors Karl and Ruth Gray are grateful to the many people who supported them in prayer from a distance while Karl was in a medically induced coma due to Covid-19.

They tell their story on page 8.

Before the lockdown Caroline Ferguson attended an Army centre for adults with learning disabilities four days a week. Page 9 reveals how the centre’s Zoom sessions now enable her to see and talk to her friends. She has also made new connections with the nearby corps.

Captain Astrid Carillo shares on pages 14 and 15 how she and her team have maintained connections with the pupils in Army schools in Guatemala during the pandemic.

On pages 18 and 19 Major Helen Schofield introduces the Inside Out resource, which is intended to ‘inspire young people to connect with the life-giving words of Scripture’, and they are encouraged – when restrictions ease – to ‘grab their friends and their Bible and learn together’.

On the Wednesday before Commissioning the cadets signed their officer’s covenant, promising to ‘live to win souls’ and ‘care for the poor, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, love the unloved and befriend those who have no friends’. Jesus said when we serve others this way we are serving him: ‘Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’ (Matthew 25:40). When we draw near to others we draw near Christ, and when we distance ourselves from them we distance ourselves from him. May God help us to make and keep connections with people – for their sakes and ours.

Quotes from the media

2

News

4 to 6

Prayer matters

6

News feature 7 Army offers practical, educational and musical support Testimony Carried through the storm

8

by Majors Karl and Ruth Gray

Feature Keeping active and engaged

9

by Chris Stringer

News feature 10 and 11 Messengers of the Kingdom make history

by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Reflection A Spirit-filled weekend of sincerity and joy

11

by Cadet Susan Shorland-Compton

Photo feature Commissioning 2020

12 and 13

My coronavirus story Learning to adapt

14 and 15

by Captain Astrid Carillo

Bible study 16 and 17 Peter exercises faith in Jesus

by Lieutenant Nathan Loxley

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Philippa Smale

Resources Connecting word to life

18 and 19

by Major Helen Schofield

Reflection The good old days

20

by Brian Colley

Reflection Tough questions

20

by Jim Burns

Adverts Announcements

21 22 and 23

Quiz

24

A global Army

FRONT-PAGE PICTURE Andrew King Photography

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

Salvationist 18 July 2020

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NEWS

ARMY NEWS

COMMUNITY

Government extends modern slavery victim contract THQ THE Salvation Army has been awarded the new government contract to manage the support of adult victims of modern slavery in England and Wales. The Army first won the contract in July 2011. Through this extension, which runs for an initial five-year period, the Army and its partners can build on expertise developed since then from helping more than 10,000 adult victims of modern slavery and human trafficking.

In response Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill said: ‘We are grateful for the opportunity to not only continue to serve these most vulnerable people but that through the new victim care contract we can extend the support available to them at all stages of their recovery. Working closely with the Home Office and our partners, we will build on the improvements and partnerships we have delivered over the past nine years and continue to add value to the entitlements survivors of slavery receive.

‘We will remain at the forefront of the fight to help today’s survivors and protect other vulnerable people from becoming the victims of the future.’

The transition to the new contract will occur in the next six months, with a focus on ensuring the needs and entitlements of survivors are properly managed and respected. Sanu, who is from Bangladesh, was held in slavelike conditions and forced to work seven days a week for seven years. He was traumatised and withdrawn when he first arrived at a safe house.

‘They see how I am and work hard to help me get my personality back,’ he said. ‘They helped me to go to the mosque and do volunteering and training. I feel lighter than I did before.’

During the coronavirus pandemic the Army has continued to help survivors access the support they need as they rebuild their lives. – AR 4

Salvationist 18 July 2020

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Army partners charity to distribute PPE to carers UKI THE Salvation Army is working with Mail Force, the charity recently set up by the Daily Mail and its partners, to distribute 700,000 items of PPE (personal protective equipment) to care homes, supported housing

and safe houses for victims of modern slavery.

Supporters of Mail Force paid for the masks and aprons, which would have cost the Army £230,000. As well as bolstering supplies to the Army’s frontline services, the delivery will be shared with two other charities – Age UK and Leonard Cheshire – and the social enterprise Turning Point.

Assistant Territorial Director of Homelessness Services (North) Malcolm Page said: ‘We are currently

FUNDRAISING

Major Rudi Bruinewoud (Louth), chaplain Rachel Robinson (The Booth Lifehouse, Grimsby) and Captain Huw Dutfield (Lincoln) receive a large food donation from Debenhams

COMMUNITY

Corps still supports people in need WINTON

Quick thinking stops coronavirus outbreak DEVONPORT HOUSE spending around £24,000 per week on PPE to keep our staff and vulnerable service users safe. Having such a big donation means we can channel some of that money towards stocking up food banks, running our debt advice line and helping victims of modern slavery.’

He added that the Army is uniquely placed with its network of sites in communities across the country, and its ‘can do’ mentality, to store and organise the onward distribution of the PPE. – AR

MEETING BRANKSOME Corps folk have been receiving ‘2-minute worship’ telephone calls on Sundays, which include music, a reading, a thought and prayer, to stay connected. This initiative takes several hours, but each knows they are hearing the same message, giving them a sense of togetherness in worship. Additionally, Army papers are posted weekly along with a letter giving up-to-date information and a thought written by Colin Bright or corps officer Major Gaynor Mulryne. Corps members also contribute items to the letter and have sent in cheques for their offering and Army papers. While most have been shielding on their own physically, this period has brought corps folk closer together as a worshipping community. – AR

STAFF members at the Lifehouse have been praised by the council for stopping a coronavirus outbreak among its residents.

One occupant tested positive for the virus and was immediately moved to a self-contained flat within the grounds to self-isolate.

The flat had been deep cleaned in advance as part of the staff ’s forward planning and kept empty in case it would be needed.

The homelessness centre was placed into quarantine while residents and staff were tested. Staff continued to support residents by following public health guidance, such as regular hand washing and increased cleaning, and making personal protective equipment available. Mobile phones and individual meals were also provided to support residents who were self-isolating.

Three days later, test results for all other residents and staff showed no one else had caught the virus and, as there had not been an outbreak, public health officials announced that Devonport House did not need to remain under quarantine.

Plymouth council’s director of public health, Ruth Harrell, said: ‘We are very pleased that there was only one positive test and that quick action ensured this did not become an outbreak.’

Homelessness Services Unit Regional Manager for Wales and South West Yvonne Connolly added: ‘I’m incredibly proud of Karl Trevis, the centre manager, and his hard-working team…

Their forward-thinking and prompt action potentially saved lives’. – AR

CORPS

THE corps has adapted to ensure members stay connected during the coronavirus pandemic. A service is recorded weekly and shared on the corps Facebook page and Sunday school and Messy Church are livestreamed online. A weekly newsletter is emailed out or posted to those without internet access. Through a new telecare communication service, everyone connected to the corps and its outreach is receiving a call every couple of weeks. Telecare organiser Ree Foster addresses any issues callers have or alerts a corps officer.

The outreach project supporting rough sleepers and vulnerable people is also operating, but in a less direct way. The corps has continued to help Boscombe Corps with its BH1 project, supplying volunteers and donating food.

The majority of rough sleepers have been temporarily accommodated, and the corps has helped to provide a packed lunch to individuals twice a week. Working with other Christian charities and the local authority, the corps has given vulnerable people, shut-ins and people staying in hotels about 80 meals every week, as well as books, puzzles, DVDs and clothing from the charity shop.

Food parcels have been provided to people in need, and corps folk have volunteered to shop for those unable to get out. Items collected include puzzle books and wool to knit scarves for rough sleepers. – GT SHOEBURYNESS Since lockdown, the corps has recorded short biblical thoughts on Facebook, which receive more than 100 views a week from people who use the hall and attend corps activities as well as members of the community. People have asked whether this will continue after lockdown, so the corps is looking into recording meetings to share online when they resume worship together. – RD Salvationist 18 July 2020

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NEWS

ARMY NEWS

Army calls for child refugee sanctuary UK THE Salvation Army has joined with more than 250 faith leaders to write an open letter to Boris Johnson, asking him to commit to offering child refugees a safe route to asylum in the UK. The signatories to the letter included Territorial Leader for Leader Development Commissioner Gill Cotterill, Chief Secretary Colonel Lee Graves and Refugee Response Co-ordinator Major Nick Coke as well as a former Archbishop of Canterbury, more than 20 Church of England bishops, the secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, more than 30 rabbis representing Reform, Liberal

and other Jewish denominations, the former president of the Hindu Forum of Europe, the lead Catholic bishop for Migrants and Refugees and senior leaders from the Baptist, Methodist, United Reformed and Quaker traditions.

‘Even in challenging times,’ the signatories wrote, ‘the UK has always remained a place of sanctuary for those seeking refuge, from the Kindertransport to the more recent Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme, and we urge you to build on this proud tradition by urgently resettling some of the world’s most vulnerable children.’

The letter was organised by the charity Safe Passage in the wake of an announcement by the UK government that the 480 places available to child refugees under the ‘Dubs Scheme’ had been filled. – RR O Read the letter at safepassage.

org.uk/faith-letter-june-2020

MEETING

Prayer EMERGENCY RESPONSE FOCUS

by Majors Karl and Ruth Gray (Clapton)

Majors Karl and Ruth are responsible for one of the 24/7 emergency response pagers in London.

SATURDAY 18 JULY Lord, thank you that even on a Saturday morning the 999 control rooms are still open. We thank you for the Salvation Army personnel who are ready to respond if necessary. Thank you because when we work together with others we see glimpses of your Kingdom, even in the very darkest of places. Amen.

SUNDAY 19 JULY Dear God, as some of us go to worship today, we pray that we will keep our eyes and ears open and focused to see where we are called to help. We pray for the Army’s response in this territory and internationally. Continue to provide resources and enable us to share your salvation, compassion and promises in every situation. Amen.

MONDAY 20 JULY Dear God, as we wake up on this Monday morning, we thank you for everyone who works in any role in the ‘blue light services’ in this country and their availability 24/7. We pray protection, peace and thankfulness over them today. Amen.

TUESDAY 21 JULY Dear God, thank you that we are allowed to make tea, serve sandwiches and offer chocolate in the midst of devastating situations. Of course we do more than that; you also allow us to share your love, offer hope and just be there in the most distressing of environments. Thank you for this privilege. Amen.

WEDNESDAY 22 JULY Dear God, thank you for the resources that you provide for us.

We praise you especially for the volunteers who are always ready to respond when an emergency arises. Keep them safe as they serve others. May they know your grace, love and protection at all times. Amen.

THURSDAY 23 JULY Dear God, we pray for all the divisions that support emergency response teams. Thank you that they are always available and willing to assist, usually on top of already busy workloads. Please bless them and let them know we are praying for them. Amen.

PLYMOUTH EXETER HALL WHITLEIGH Sunday morning worship on Zoom continued with the annual Children’s Celebration Sunday. Themes were taken from the Toy Story films, and the young people led prayers, read the Bible and spoke about what makes a good friend. As well as dressing up as characters from the films, members of the congregation were encouraged to make their own Mr and Mrs Potato Head by decorating a potato to remind each person that they are unique but made in the likeness of God. – TD 6

Salvationist 18 July 2020

FRIDAY 24 JULY Lord, we pray for everyone affected by emergencies: people who have lost family and friends, who have watched their houses burn or who have become homeless because of flooding. We pray for anyone who is struggling because of what they have witnessed. Lord, thank you for bringing healing, restoration and hope in every situation. Amen.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources

NEWS FEATURE

Army offers practical, educational and musical support IHQ GLOBALLY, more than 10 million cases of Covid-19 have been recorded by the World Health Organisation. Communities around the world are grappling with the realities of bereavement, economic disruption, hunger and the ever-present threat of disease. The Salvation Army stands firm in its support of the most vulnerable in society through practical, educational and musical means.

HYGIENE, FOOD AND WARMTH The Salvation Army in the Philippines is making a practical difference in public health provision by supplying hygiene kits and cleaning supplies to quarantine facilities in and around Manila. These locations include facilities such as requisitioned sports centres and other public buildings. Antibacterial soap, alcohol-based hand gel, detergent, bleach, health information leaflets and bags have been given out.

In northern India, significant feeding operations are being undertaken, alongside the distribution of public health messaging and sanitiser. The Salvation Army’s territorial headquarters team in New Delhi received phone calls from migrant labourers who were at a construction site at Gautam Nagar and had no food for two days. The local authorities asked the Army to help them by giving food, and the team was able to respond immediately.

The Salvation Army in Johannesburg, South Africa, has also helped provide a ready supply of nutritional food to vulnerable individuals and families in neighbouring Lesotho. Food parcels have been distributed where the need is greatest in both countries.

As winter draws closer and the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis becomes clearer, the Army in Australia has developed the ‘coat tree’. The Gold Coast town of Southport now has several trees sporting unusual ‘fruit’ in the guise of warm coats.

Anyone sleeping rough or in need of warmth can take a coat for free. From an

The Philippines initial supply of 30 garments, supplies are topped up from Salvos Stores. Coat trees are now also springing up in New South Wales.

EDUCATION The IHQ Schools and Education Unit has developed advice on the safe reopening of schools. This new advice offers support on how to assess the capacity of schools where physical distancing is required, along with details on how to ensure adequate hygiene provision. The framework also takes school leaders through issues such as planning reopenings or initiating altered services, as well as advising on the training and support of teaching and ancillary staff and communicating changes to pupils, parents and authorities.

With regulations and Covid-19 advice varying from country to country, some of the Army’s thousands of schools have managed to continue providing education. At the Army’s Azam School in Karachi, Pakistan, and in the Philippines, teaching has moved online. Other options are also being put into action, including in Guatemala, which is one of many countries where teachers at rural schools are making difficult journeys to provide lesson materials to pupils. In urban settings, teachers are using WhatsApp to communicate with parents and teach pupils who have no access to laptops or home computers (see feature on pages 14 and 15).

In Liberia, lessons are being taught online to pupils who are sitting exams, while water and

sanitation preparations are being made for the return to school.

DRAMA AND MUSIC In Australia, while theatres and performing arts venues are still unable to operate, the Army has produced a virtual musical. Three Bags Unpacked is based on the biblical story of the prodigal son and is the brainchild of Worship Arts Co-ordinator Julia Roper, based in Melbourne. The initiative will involve 15 to 30-year-olds from around the nation. The young stars will record their singing, acting, playing and dancing to be mixed together to create the virtual production.

‘This will be a unique way for our youth and young adults to connect with old friends and make new ones while being part of this fantastic musical theatre experience,’ said Julia and her counterpart in Brisbane, Louise Mathieson, who have been reviewing recordings submitted from every state.

Louise added that it had taken the isolation regulations during the Covid-19 pandemic to ‘show this is possible’.

‘We probably would never have thought of it if we hadn’t been forced into a situation where we can’t travel or get hundreds of kids together in a space,’ she enthused. ‘Although there is an intense amount of work involved, this is a really good alternative to still be inclusive and flexible. I think what’s exciting for all of us is the collaborative aspect of it.’

– AR Salvationist 18 July 2020

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TESTIMONY

Carried through the storm Majors Karl and Ruth Gray (Clapton) give thanks for prayer support and God’s faithfulness during Karl’s Covid-19 hospitalisation and recovery

K

ARL had been ill for two weeks with Covid-19 before that day in April when he couldn’t breathe and turned blue. We called 999, expecting him to be home by teatime.

We have never been so wrong.

When the ambulance took him to Homerton University Hospital he was immediately put on a ventilator and into a medically induced coma. He was on 60 per cent oxygen and, over the next days, his kidneys failed and he contracted acute pancreatitis.

Ruth contacted people, asking them to pray: Major Sarah Evans at DHQ, who got people praying; Major Andrew Vertigan, who requested prayers on social media; church leaders in Hackney where we work; and the rector of Tunbridge Wells, one of our oldest friends. Our corps WhatsApp prayer group members literally got on their knees and our daughter, Tasha, got people praying at the Church of England’s pension board where she works. We believe God hears every single prayer, but it was also people’s love and faith that carried us through the long, scary days that followed.

Salvation Army officers prayer walked around the hospital and prayed outside our house, members of our congregation ran round the hospital praying on their daily exercise and the 8

Salvationist 18 July 2020

emergency cabinet meetings at THQ started with prayer for Karl. On top of that, we live in an area of north London with a large Orthodox Jewish community, and those in our street prayed constantly for us. We don’t come from Salvation Army families but we learnt that we have a massive Salvation Army family, as people from all over the UK and the wider world contacted us letting us know they were praying for us.

Karl gradually improved and the future became more hopeful. He was brought out of the coma after three and a half weeks, but under heavy sedation for another week and a half before being moved out of intensive care and into a respiratory ward.

He then got another infection and ended up back on oxygen. A week later, though, he was moved to a rehabilitation ward. Then, exactly eight weeks after he went into hospital, he came home. We hadn’t seen him during that time, except once when the ward sister allowed us a sneaky peek at him through a window. He is now continuing to recover at home.

We will never be able to repay or thank the hospital staff enough – they were beyond wonderful. And we cannot thank our Salvation Army friends enough. The people who helped us have gone above and beyond anything we expected.

On the first Sunday that Karl was in intensive care – Palm Sunday – we saw a video of Regent Hall worship group singing ‘Raise A Hallelujah’, which contains these words: ‘Up from the ashes hope will arise,/ Death is defeated, the King is alive!’ Clapton singing group had been learning that to sing on Easter Sunday. The

two corps are different expressions of Salvation Army yet, on that Sunday, God united his people. The Hammond family in Derby posted a brass quartet every day on social media, and the song ‘He Came To Give Us Life In All Its Fullness’ (SASB 139) spoke volumes, as yet again God confirmed his promises to us.

Karl can’t remember anything until a week before he left hospital. Ruth, Tasha, our son, Arran, and his wife, Helen, remember everything. In that remembering we see how amazing God’s people are when they stand in unity and pray.

Karl is now feeling much better, although he is frustrated by his lack of strength and stamina. He is having physiotherapy three times a week and can walk up the stairs as well as round the block. It’s tiring but he can do it. We are convinced that he will get back to full health because people are praying and God is faithful.

As people who choose to follow Jesus, the most important thing we can do is pray. An Army on its knees will see God’s Kingdom revealed in the darkest times, and when it felt like all the happiness had been sucked out of the world, people’s prayers carried us through.

Please keep praying – for us, for each other and for this hurting, confused world. Pray that we will all keep our eyes fixed on Calvary and our hearts firmly tuned to the voice of the Holy Spirit.

We thank everyone who prayed. The glory always goes to God, but so many people stood in the storm with us and we have seen a faithful God proving to us miraculously that ‘all the promises of God in [Christ] are yes, and in him amen’ (2 Corinthians 1:20 New King James Version).

FEATURE Life in lockdown

Keeping active and engaged Chris Stringer finds out how George Steven Community Hub member Caroline Ferguson has been taking care of her well-being

F

ORMERLY known as the George Steven Centre, the George Steven Community Hub in Kilbirnie has been expanding its projects to become a resource for the whole of the Garnock Valley. The services it provides include Community Choices, a specialist programme for adults with learning disabilities, which provides a range of activities throughout the week. Caroline Ferguson usually attends four days a week. Since the lockdown began, she and her family have continued to engage with the hub. And while she cannot attend, she continues to make the most of the services on offer.

Four mornings a week the centre hosts Zoom sessions with service users. These meetings have different themes including tongue twisters, karaoke, music, arts and crafts and quizzes. One of the arts and crafts meetings involved making and decorating shakers out of milk cartons and pasta. These have allowed Caroline to see and talk to her friends.

In addition to the midweek Zoom sessions, Caroline has been taking part in the Sunday morning Zoom meetings hosted by Kilbirnie Corps, even though the family do not normally attend worship there.

One of the most innovative groups at the centre is the Music Man Project.

Before the lockdown, the group had begun taking their performances beyond the centre to delight audiences at care homes and special education needs schools.

Since the lockdown, Caroline has been tuning in to the Music Man Project on Facebook, where it offers singalongs

on Wednesdays o and Thursdays. a The George T Steven Community Hub dropped off a drum, tambourine and triangle to her house, so she has been able to participate fully. She already knows all the words and actions and enjoys the shows so much that, even on the days when the shows are not on, she watches previous days’ videos.

In the evenings Caroline watches a similar Facebook show by accordion player Graham Mackay. He broadcasts from his summer house in his garden in Elgin, which he calls the Ceilidh Cabin.

Alongside her mother, Caroline has also been taking part in a daily online workout organised by the local Curves gym, which runs a short line dancing session on Sundays.

Throughout lockdown, Facetime has been a great blessing. Caroline’s brother, Alan, moved to Canada a couple of years ago and he and his partner would usually visit during the summer. It is likely that this summer’s

visit will have to be cancelled but, through Facetime, the family are able to share in a call with them on most nights.

As well as this, they take part in a family quiz with Caroline’s aunt, uncle and cousins on Saturday nights.

Most days, the family manage to get out for a walk, enjoying a variety of routes through the countryside, including one that takes them to a hidden waterfall.

Caroline celebrated her birthday at the start of May and one of her presents was a hula hoop. Since then she has been practising in the back garden. The family have found themselves in need of something to cool them down during the hot weather, so she has been helping to make ice cream.

As you can see, Caroline’s days are pretty full. But she still misses going down to the George Steven Community Hub and meeting up with all her friends and the staff members. She is eagerly looking forward to the day when they can reopen.

CHRIS IS LEARNING DISABILITIES INCLUSION DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, THQ Salvationist 18 July 2020

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NEWS FEATURE

Messengers of the Kingdom WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE

Pictures: ANDREW KING PHOTOGRAPHY

EVERY Commissioning is memorable, but the Commissioning of the 20 cadets of the Messengers of the Kingdom Session will be particularly remembered for the imaginative way it adapted to coronavirus restrictions, writes Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts.

With a mixture of live and pre-recorded sequences put together by THQ’s Video Production Unit, the event, which had never taken place at the college before, was live-streamed on the internet and combined traditional and novel elements.

William Booth College Principal Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne welcomed viewers from the front steps of the college, explaining how the college had adjusted to the lockdown. The cadets’ families and friends were not able to be present but Cadet Kat Whitmore thanked those watching from home for their support before and during training, and for their promises of prayer.

The scene then switched to the assembly hall, where the territorial leaders, service heads, first-year cadets and some of the college staff were gathered. The Messengers of the Kingdom slowly entered behind their sessional flag, which was carried by Cadet Gill McCredie, before Chief Secretary Colonel Lee Graves welcomed those present and watching via the livestream.

No singing was allowed within the hall, so the opening song was a recording of ‘King

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Of Kings, Majesty’ from the previous year’s Commissioning, with words displayed on a screen.

After Cadet Jamie Slater read Luke 17:20 and 21, a video of the sessional song based on those verses, ‘Kingdom Come’ (Matt Spencer), was shown.

Four pre-recorded testimonies were screened during the meeting. Cadet Liam Beattie recalled his first visit to WBC, when he thought ‘this can never be for me’, and then spoke about the blessings of his time at college and expressed his belief that ‘through

his strength [God] will enable me to fulfil my calling’. Cadet Jacqueline Coates said the Kingdom of God in her life was like a jigsaw, as God shaped each piece to fit in place. ‘I know the puzzle is far from complete,’ she said, ‘but I am beginning to see the finished picture.’

Cadet Rebekah Clark highlighted the characteristics of the Kingdom that she had seen at college and hoped to see in her ministry. ‘Who doesn’t want to be part of the Kingdom?’ she concluded. Cadet Jonny Whitmore expressed his excitement at not just being a Messenger of the Kingdom but also a bringer of the Kingdom. Quoting the song ‘The Way It’s Gonna Be’, he hoped the world would see ‘a little bit of Heaven in my life’.

Normally during Commissioning the session would gather on the platform to pray together but, instead, a video of the International Staff Band playing ‘You Encircle Me’, based on Psalm 139, was played and viewers were invited to share prayers on social media using the hashtag #UKCommissioning.

The Principal then formally presented the cadets to Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, who responded by thanking all the staff for preparing the cadets for officership, acknowledging the part played by the previous Principal and Assistant Principal,

make history Lieut-Colonels Mike and Wendy Caffull.

In his message the TC said: ‘Ahead of you as officers are great joys and blessings. But let me tell you too, ahead of you is intensive hard work and often great sorrows.’ Referring to Ephesians 6, he encouraged them to ‘put on the full armour of God’ (v11), the personal protective equipment that God provides.

‘May we all be dressed ready for battle and action, filled with the Spirit as true messengers of the Kingdom.’

Cadet Emily Watson read Ephesians 3:14–21 before a video featured the session singing their dedication song, ‘To You...’

(Yvonne Field). It had been filmed with the cadets standing individually or with their spouses at various places in the college grounds, including one cadet on the assembly hall roof, and showed sweeping aerial views of them on the eight-acre campus.

The session recited the Army’s 11 doctrines before promising to live by them, to serve others and to be faithful officers.

In the moving moments that followed,

each cadet was called individually to step forward and Territorial Leader for Leader Development Commissioner Gill Cotterill commissioned them as officers with the rank of lieutenant and read a Bible verse chosen specifically for them.

As a recording of the first year cadets singing ‘In Your Presence’ (William Himes) was played, the image of each new lieutenant was shown on the screen and viewers were again invited to share prayers on social media. Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Debbie Graves then prayed for the session, asking God to ‘fill them with an abundance of love for others’.

Viewers were challenged to consider God’s calling on their lives as staff members from the Candidates Unit spoke on the theme Therefore I Will.

Commissioning Day would normally include two meetings. In the second the newly commissioned officers would appear in their lieutenants’ uniforms for the first time. Instead, they were shown donning

their lieutenants’ epaulettes in the informal setting of a classroom, before the places to which they had been appointed were shown on a map on the screen.

The TC concluded this unusual but inspiring Commissioning by encouraging the lieutenants to ‘grasp hold of everything that God has resourced you with’, expressing thanks to God for them and praying that he would enable them by his Spirit in the days ahead.

2020 can be watched at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo

O Commissioning

REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI TION TI REFLECTION EC ON

A Spirit-filled weekend of sincerity and joy Cadet Susan Shorland-Compton, a Messenger of Grace, shares her thoughts on the Messengers of the Kingdom Commissioning weekend

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LTHOUGH not in the traditional format, Commissioning was a God-honouring ceremony and a blessing to all those watching. Whether present in the assembly hall or watching the livestream, one could not fail to be moved by these people giving their lives to God for service as Salvation Army officers. The footage previously filmed and the live moments of commissioning and dedication captured the sincerity

and spirit of the occasion.

Whatever was lost by not being able to inhabit the usual venue at Central Hall, Westminster, was more than made up for in intimacy and outreach.

More than 14,000 people have so far viewed the footage, which explained not only the ceremony but the journey the Messengers of the Kingdom had been on over the past two years.

The meeting was followed in the evening by a celebration. One could feel nothing but joy and happiness for the new lieutenants as they marched around the centre of the campus to the greetings of cadets, staff and families.

The meeting included a time of open testimony, and words of encouragement from Chief Secretary Colonel Lee Graves.

Our realisation that we Messengers of Grace were now second-year cadets was a moving and significant moment, captured in the place where

we had been living, worshipping and learning together for the first year of our training. What shone through the new lieutenants was how grateful they were to be officers; they seemed ready and fired up to go where God has sent them.

The celebrations concluded on Sunday morning with a private time for the laying up of the Messengers of the Kingdom flag and the acknowledgement of us, the new second-year cadets. We also said farewell to some of the college staff moving to new appointments.

A few months ago we feared that none of this might be possible but, by God’s grace, it was a Spirit-filled weekend of sincerity and joy as we witnessed again the commissioning of officers, called by God to step out in faith, and prayed that through this unique experience many others would step out in faith too. God bless the Messengers of the Kingdom.

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Pictures: ANDREW KING PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO FEATURE Commissioning 2020

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Salvationist 18 July 2020

Salvationist 18 July 2020

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Picture: VIDEO PRODUCTION UNIT

Picture: VIDEO PRODUCTION UNIT

FEATURE My coronavirus story

Learning to adapt School Co-ordinator for Guatemala Captain Astrid Carillo (Latin America North Territory) tells Jo Clark (IHQ) how Salvation Army schools in the division are caring for pupils

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HAVE been a Salvation Army officer for eight years. Before that, my professional background was in education administration and so, with each of my corps appointments, I have also held responsibility within a school.

I am now the co-ordinator of the five Salvation Army schools in the Guatemala Division and the director of one. In total we have almost 600 pupils aged from 4 to 12 years.

Tierra Nueva School, which I oversee, teaches a total of 87 pupils. We have been under lockdown since March. As you can imagine, this has posed huge challenges for us as a community.

Our school, in Guatemala City, lies in

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one of the country’s most dangerous zones. Poverty and drug addiction are rife, even in normal times. Life before Covid-19 was already tough, but we were able to see and meet the challenges of our pupils’ circumstances by providing a stable school life and a good education. After the outbreak we realised that we were going to have to develop a whole new strategy to support our children.

The majority of families do not have access to the internet or computers, so providing online classes was not going to be an effective way forward. Many parents, though, do have a smartphone, so that is where we started.

Teachers have been developing materials and sending them out to parents via WhatsApp. They have also sent out links to YouTube videos for those who have sufficient data and can watch with their children, and they have been arranging class group video calls where possible. For those families without smartphones, teachers have been trying to visit to take worksheets to children’s homes and keep in touch with the families through regular support phone calls.

These calls have been particularly important for families where a member has suffered from Covid-19, requiring them to self-isolate. To know they are being remembered has been crucial to families in such challenging times and has enabled us to build confidence with them.

Where possible we have tried to support isolating and other vulnerable families with food and other necessities for their children. We have few resources but corps and community members who are able to help have joined together to support those in most need.

The logistics have been particularly complicated, as it has been difficult for us to move around. Each Sunday Guatemala’s president gives a televised Covid-19 briefing, announcing new movement restrictions for the following week. These depend on how Covid-19 infections are tracking at that particular time; sometimes we are locked down completely and sometimes we are allowed out to buy essentials on one or two specific days of the week. Some weeks markets and supermarkets in our area are allowed to open but other weeks they are closed. Sanitary cordons are quickly set up in order to monitor temperatures and movements of people, disrupting plans for shopping or, at best, slowing them down.

This uncertainty is one of the hardest things to deal with. It makes planning almost impossible and is leading to many stresses within families. For example, where families work to make money on a day-to-day basis they can’t buy supplies to last for several days, which is important in case the lockdown restrictions are tightened again.

While our situation has been difficult, at Chimaltenango School – more than an hour’s drive from the city – the challenges have been multiplied by its rural location. The community is more

vulnerable and, even in normal times, life is more marginal as many people speak only Kaqchikel, rather than Spanish, and electricity and other basic services are not available to the general population. Access to smartphones and mobile data is also uncommon. Despite this, our teachers are doing their utmost to keep the pupils connected and supplied with learning materials.

The flexibility and adaptability of all our teachers during these days has been incredible. They have extended their contact hours, making themselves available at times that work best for parents and pupils, which enables families to manage their children’s education alongside other stresses and priorities. Some teachers have been using their own resources to top up data plans on their phones when we haven’t been able to support them, so they can keep in contact with pupils. They also continued working even when our reserve funds were low and we struggled to pay them on time.

Thankfully, we are now receiving some financial support from the World Service Office in the USA. Our teachers continue to make huge efforts to bring variety to lockdown life, boosting their pupils’ emotional wellbeing. Each week they try do something different to cheer and inspire the children and their family members, including an exercise video, a day of challenges and a puppet show via WhatsApp. Despite the challenges, the team at Tierra Nueva School has made and maintained contact with all its pupils.

Making first contact wasn’t easy, and in some cases it was down to our stubborn determination that we managed to find out how to reach the children. The effort taken to locate people has enabled us to keep track of the most vulnerable children during the times we are allowed out.

During these months, I have been so grateful for my school team and my corps family who have been generous in their support. Being single and living alone has made lockdown particularly difficult at times. My father lives some distance away and I have not been able to visit him. Having the support of the corps has been a godsend, especially since corps monetary offerings – which support my allowance – have ceased.

I have come to appreciate the shared passion and dedication that my team members have for the children in our care. How they have given of their own resources and have made themselves available any time of day and night has been extraordinary. Their dedication and teamwork have deepened the relationships that we, as a school, have with the pupils, their parents and families. As a result, we are finding that parents are becoming more interested and involved in supporting their children’s learning.

Approaching people with open hearts has enabled us all to move forward together. We have no idea what the coming weeks will hold but we do know that with this closer union, God will continue to open doors and work out ways beyond our imagination for us to meet people’s needs and for him to sustain us.

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BIBLE STUDY

Peter exercises faith in Jesus Lieutenant Nathan Loxley encourages us to depend on Jesus and learn from him MATTHEW 10:1–20

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HAVE never seen someone raised from the dead and sometimes that really frustrates me. Reading the instructions that Jesus gave Peter and the other disciples, we might feel ‘raise the dead’ (v8) is almost a nonchalant command.

A deeper examination of the passage shows the depths of Jesus’ radical demands to live by faith.

Jesus gathers his disciples. This is an essential first step for close communication and just as important today. By gathering closer to Jesus, the disciples also gather closer to one another. We can focus solely on Peter exercising faith in Jesus, but this is also about Jesus creating a team to enable Peter’s continual faith journey.

During the coronavirus lockdown, perhaps we have appreciated more than ever that Christian fellowship is a great source of encouragement, where Jesus’ voice is heard by his people together.

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

by Major Philippa Smale

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In Luke 10:1 and Mark 6:7, we see Jesus sending disciples out in pairs.

This becomes the practice of the Early Church. For example, Paul and Barnabas (see Acts 13:1–3), Paul and Silas and Barnabas and Mark (see Acts 15:36–41). When stepping out into any new ministry, we should aim to adopt this biblical model – a team dependent on Jesus and, to a lesser extent, on one another.

QUESTIONS do you intentionally get close to Jesus and listen to him in your everyday life?

O How are you encouraging other believers?

O How

Jesus outlines his plans. It would not have been unreasonable if they questioned him. Why avoid the Gentiles? Those who were around Jesus a few days previously would

have heard him praising a Roman centurion. He heralded the soldier’s faith as greater than any other he had found in all of Israel (see Matthew 8:10). If this were typical of the reception they could expect among Gentiles, then maybe they would see good breakthroughs on their mission.

Like a game of Simon Says, we have to wait on instructions from our Master.

We may well have some sensible ideas but to exercise faith we need to wait for instructions from the Spirit and then obey them. We must depend on Jesus for our battle orders. He is our example of how to love well.

As the disciples listen to the instructions from Jesus, they hear his compassion towards the ‘lost sheep of Israel’ (v6). In the same vein, they are being sent out to proclaim the Kingdom and to meet the needs of those who are sick, outcast and oppressed.

As we are also sent out to proclaim the

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

God forgave my sin in Jesus’ name,/ I’ve been born again in Jesus’ name;/ And in Jesus’ name I come to you/ To share his love as he told me to.

(SASB 459)

‘Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, proclaim this message: “The Kingdom of Heaven has come near.” Heal those who are ill, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.’

(Matthew 10:5–8)

He said: ‘Freely, freely, you have received,/ Freely, freely give;/ Go in my name, and because you believe/ Others will know that I live.’

(SASB 459)

Prayer Freely, we have received – help us to freely give, Lord. This message is too precious and important to keep to ourselves. Help us all to become messengers of your gospel.

Kingdom, we must ensure that we practise what we preach. We must avoid using people for our own ends. They must not become a vehicle for boosting our personal or corporate reputation.

QUESTIONS O How have you acted out of a Christgiven compassion this week?

O What battle orders is Jesus giving you for the week to come?

I wonder whether the disciples had a practice run. Before the mission, had Peter healed anyone in the name of Jesus? Had he been taken through the step-by-step intricacies of how to raise someone from the dead? Was he able to make some private mistakes, before stepping out into public ministry?

The success of the disciples’ mission would be fully dependent on Jesus and the power of his name. At times, I have found that it can be all too easy to slip

into a ministry that comes from my own strength. It requires little thought, is comfortable and takes little faith.

Author AW Tozer wrote: ‘If the Holy Spirit was withdrawn from the Church today, 95 per cent of what we do would go on and no one would know the difference.

If the Holy Spirit had been withdrawn from the Early Church, 95 per cent of what they did would stop, and everybody would know the difference.’

This is a good challenge to the Church, but let’s also apply it to our lives and our frontline mission.

In verses 9 and 10, Jesus lists what the disciples are to take for the journey: nothing. They are called to be totally dependent on God and his provision (see Luke 9:3). This dependency began long before their ministry. Their time listening, watching and learning from Jesus was a spiritual investment.

This is echoed in what I consider to be one of the most exciting parts of the

soldier’s covenant: ‘giving as large a proportion of my income as possible’ to support corps ministry and the work of the Army worldwide. This is not only because The Salvation Army needs our money but also a reminder that when we purposefully position ourselves to depend on Jesus, we will see his miraculous provision and, consequently, learn to depend on him even more.

When we are comfortable, we are the ones who miss out.

QUESTIONS O What ‘comforts’ might be holding you back from learning to depend on Jesus?

O What are your next steps in ministering in the power of the Spirit?

LIEUTENANT LOXLEY IS CORPS OFFICER, ST IVES

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

‘Whatever town or village you enter, search there for some worthy person and stay at their house until you leave.

As you enter the home, give it your greeting. If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you.’

(Matthew 10:11–13)

All power is given in Jesus’ name,/ In Earth and Heaven in Jesus’ name;/ And in Jesus’ name I come to you/ To share his power as he told me to.

(SASB 459)

‘On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it.

At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.’

(Matthew 10:18–20)

We have a gospel to proclaim,/ Good news for men in all the Earth;/ The gospel of a Saviour’s name:/ We sing his glory, tell his worth.

(SASB 155)

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RESOURCES

Connecting word to life Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Major Helen Schofield introduces a resource for young people

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HAVE always had a passion to see young people flourish and know that their identity is found in God. The Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit is committed to producing new resources to make sure these things happen.

Throughout history and throughout Scripture there are examples of young people who have been the sharp head of the arrow with respect to shaping, influencing and leading change. We believe that young people have unbridled potential – potential to dream, lead and restore the forgotten places, and to rebuild communities as disciples and followers of Jesus in the tradition of social change and justice. We have the amazing privilege of walking with young people to help them get to know the God of the Bible who still acts and moves in the world.

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‘

Youth workers are realising the importance of connecting young people with the words of Scripture

’

The Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit conducted a survey to help us develop an effective approach for future work. More than 1,400 people across the territory took part: children and young people, corps officers, youth and children’s workers and divisional and regional specialists. The research captured the voice of all those invested in the Army’s youth and children’s ministry in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The results, published in a booklet called Listen Up, revealed a need for effective discipleship, with discipleship resources being a key area for future development. Youth workers were looking for up-to-date, culturally relevant resources that young people would engage with and that would get them excited about their relationship with God. Back in 2011 we produced a book called Shelf Life, which was designed to help young people get the Bible off the shelf and into their lives. We wanted them to realise that, even though the

Bible was written long ago, it is still relevant to our lives right here, right now. We wanted young people to get excited about picking up their Bible and be able to really connect with what they read. When we saw the brilliant new Good News Bible Youth Edition, published by Bible Society 18 months ago, we felt that in Shelf Life we could have, with some updating, a fantastic resource that would work alongside the youth Bible to inspire young people to connect again with the life-giving words of Scripture. We hoped that by working with Bible Society we could breathe fresh life into a resource that still had tremendous relevance to today’s young people.

Discussions began more than a year ago and we have developed a strong partnership, combining our individual expertise with the shared vision of making Scripture more accessible to this new generation of Christians. The original book has been rigorously edited and expanded, and we are excited at

‘

Inside Out is a Bible discovery guide, designed to get the life-changing words of the Bible out of the text and into our lives

’

what we have produced together.

Inside Out is a Bible discovery guide, designed to get the life-changing words of the Bible out of the text and into our lives. It makes the link between day-today modern living and the ancient words of Scripture. It guides young people into a deeper connection with the wisdom found in the Bible and, through this, into a closer relationship with Jesus.

A unique feature of Inside Out is the development of six creative practices called ‘connectives’. Each connective focuses on a specific element that is a vital part of quality Bible study and is presented in a way that young people will understand and be able to put straight into action. The design of Inside Out is relevant and engaging. Full of colour, the text is broken into bite-sized chunks with interesting pictures, backgrounds and fonts, suitable for even the most unenthusiastic reader.

Throughout the book there are step-bystep guides and a wide range of interactive journaling activities, which will encourage readers to delve into the

words and hear God speak to them.

Of course, one of the great ways to get right inside the Bible is to do it with friends. Towards the end of Inside Out we have included four short group Bible studies, showing young people how to use some of the ideas described in the connectives with others. No preparation is needed. Young people can simply grab their friends and their Bible and learn together.

For the final part of Inside Out we’ve put together a daily Bible reading plan with seven short personal studies – one for each day of the week – to help young people get into the habit of reading the Bible regularly. Each day’s reading takes only 10 to 15 minutes and uses the six connectives throughout.

We will be encouraging our youth workers to make sure every single one of our young people has a copy of Inside Out, as well as encouraging them to incorporate the connectives into their own Bible study programme within youth and cell groups. We shared a sampler of Inside Out at the Territorial Youth Band

and Choir weeks in February. The participants liked the way it looked and anticipated that it would be beneficial in their spiritual journeys and formation.

We also distributed it at the Youth and Children’s Ministries Conference in March, and the response was extremely positive.

Youth workers within The Salvation Army – and, we believe, in other churches across the nation – are realising the importance of connecting young people with the words of Scripture. We all need rock-solid truths to hold on to in the fast-paced, everchanging landscape of the 21st century.

We believe that this resource will equip young people with the tools they need as they follow Jesus, and provide a key foundation for their journey of faith.

O A free copy of Inside Out is available to young people and youth workers.

Contact your divisional youth specialist or email youthchildren@salvationarmy. org.uk. Copies are also available from biblesociety.org.uk priced £8.99 Salvationist 18 July 2020

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REFLECTION

The good old days…

Brian Colley (Clowne) continues his series of reflections on verses from Psalms I remember the days of long ago.

(Psalm 143:5)

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ANY people talk about the ‘good old days’ with affection. More often than not memories are selective and bad moments from the past are forgotten.

Christians can also be included in this thinking. For some it means speaking about someone who has passed away or about a place of worship that is now closed or has a much smaller

membership. The times remembered are when friends were alive or when larger congregations enjoyed happy fellowship.

Some look back and remember when people attended worship and were not attracted to sporting events, garden centres, supermarkets or anything else that, before the lockdown, diverted attention away from the need to meet weekly with God. Some older people can remember when there was respect for elders, those in authority and other people’s property, when the back door could be left unlocked with no fear of someone walking in and stealing something, when a friendly policeman walked regularly around the neighbourhood and when people waited until they could afford something instead of using credit cards to take them into debt. They were the ‘good old days’.

‘

On retirement in 1994 I started to teach myself the piano

Asking I tough questions Jim Burns (Dunstable) considers our response when Christian leaders are found to have acted wrongly

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When the psalmist looked back it was to remember the blessings of God – and to realise that there were going to be many more blessings in the future. It is unfortunate that some Christians look backwards and not forwards. God has not changed and never will. His blessings are ours and he showers them on us in abundance. Why, then, do so many see the need to take shelter from them?

The blessings of current times should be enjoyed – even with our present difficulties – so we can look back on them with thanksgiving. They can become the good old days of the future.

MAGINE you’ve finished reading a book on prayer by a famous pastor, which you have found helpful and challenging. You search online for information about his church, but the first item that comes up is about how he has resigned because of allegations made by some of his staff and congregation.

Do you decide never to read any more of his books or do you think that the message, if it’s in line with the Bible’s teaching, is more important than the messenger?

Do you pray for him to receive forgiveness? Or do you think that he’s just another in a line of ministers whose walk didn’t match their talk and therefore deserves to be punished?

Do you feel sorry for the good reputation and standing that he has lost? Do you remind yourself that ‘All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way’

There shall be showers of blessing: Precious reviving again; Over the hills and the valleys, Sound of abundance of rain.

(SASB 314)

(Isaiah 53:6 New King James Version)?

Perhaps you thank God that any sins that you have committed haven’t been the subject of global attention.

As well as feeling deeply for those who have come forward to complain about his behaviour and may not initially have been believed, do you feel angry that he didn’t admit his failings and immediately stand down from his position? Do you believe that, in not acknowledging his wrongdoing, he doesn’t deserve God’s forgiveness, never mind the forgiveness of those he has abused?

When someone in a high profile position is found to have acted wrongly, do we privately gloat? Or does it make us feel uncomfortable, helping us see the need to confess to God the sins that we have committed – sins that might be known to no one other than God? It’s not easy being a Christian, is it?

ADVERT

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Platinum (70th) O Rtd BM Ron and Daphne Joice, Romford (5 August) Diamond O Bill and Dorothy Scott, Rushden (30 July) Golden O Brian and Pauline Davison, Staines (11 July) O Joe and Ann Little, Felixstowe (25 July) O Lionel and Janice Lodge, Gloucester (25 July) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Roy Smith (90 on 31 July) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Major Lilian Wylie from her home in Kinlochleven on 30 June O Rtd Dep BM Kenneth Osbourne, Gravesend O Rtd BM Billy Stanger, Kirkwall O Bandsman/Songster Graham Robb, Aberdeen Citadel O Patrick Boyne, Aberdeen Citadel O Clifford Grinsted, Eastbourne Citadel BEREAVED O Gwyneth Dobson, High Wycombe, and Pamela Robins of their mother Major Lilian Wylie, Angus Wylie, Kinlochleven, and Stephen Wylie, Rutherglen, of their stepmother O Gareth Moreton, Penarth, of his mother Linda Woodger O Rtd HLS Isa Stanger, Kirkwall, of her husband Rtd BM Billy Stanger, Andrew Stanger, Marnie Burns, Ishbel Fraser and Morag Walker, all Kirkwall, of their father, Evelyn Buchan, Peterhead, of her brother O Lieutenant Ruth Hammond, Ivybridge, of her sister Christine Coe O Songster Margaret Robb, Aberdeen Citadel, of her husband Songster/Bandsman Graham Robb, Bandsman Austyn Robb and Songster Margaret-Alison Booth, both Aberdeen Citadel, of their father O Denise Young, Stapleford, of her father Clifford Grinsted

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LIEUT-COLONELS PAUL AND JENINE MAIN TO BE NEW CHIEF SECRETARY AND TSLD FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM TERRITORY WITH THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND THE Chief of the Staff has announced that the General has appointed LieutColonels Paul and Jenine Main as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, effective 1 November. They will succeed Colonels Lee and Debbie Graves, who will be taking up appointments at International Headquarters.

Since 2018 Lieut-Colonels Paul and Jenine Main have served respectively as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries in the Caribbean Territory.

They will take up their new appointment responsibilities with the rank of colonel.

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 July O Major John Ager out of Northampton Central in 1980 and last appointment Wallsend O Major Joan Archibald (nĂŠe Owens) out of Coleraine in 2001 and last appointment Limavady O Major Peter Hawkins out of Croydon Citadel in 1982 and last appointment Personnel Service, THQ O Major David Morgans out of Gorseinon in 2001 and last appointment Tenby O Commissioner Massimo Paone out of Napoli in 1977 and Commissioner Elizabeth Paone (nĂŠe Moir) out of Nunhead in 1982 and last appointment Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES MAJOR MILLICENT STRAKER MILLIE was born in 1918 in Redhill, Surrey. She moved with her family to London just after the First World War. At eight years of age she joined the Sunbeams at Haggerston where she quickly embraced all the Army had to offer.

During the Second World War, and throughout the Blitz, Millie worked at the Men’s Social Work headquarters. At 26 years of age she entered the International Training College as a member of the Challengers Session and worked for many years as a field officer in corps around England.

In 1960 she was appointed to the YP Department at headquarters, then the Property Department, before returning to field ministry for a few years. Her final appointments were at the training college, the Mothers’ Hospital in Clapton and Women’s Social Services headquarters.

In retirement Millie moved to Bognor Regis and was actively involved in corps life. At 90 years of age she moved to Weston-super-Mare, where she was a much-loved and respected member of the corps.

Millie finally moved to the Army’s Dewdown House care home where she was promoted to Glory, a week before her 102nd birthday. She was God’s soldier, totally committed to the Lord and The Salvation Army, and is greatly missed by her family and friends. – PD LIEUT-COLONEL KATHLEEN ARMISTEAD KATHLEEN Miller, known as Kath, was born in Bradford in 1947. She came to know the Army at Bradford West Bowling through the witness of a schoolfriend. She committed her life to God and wanted only to love and serve her Lord.

At the age of 19 Kath married David Armistead. In 1971, following the arrival of

courage, assuring everyone that God is good.

David, Lesley and Matthew were with her when she went to her reward. They and the wider family miss her tremendously, but take comfort in the knowledge that her ministry continues through the memories she left them and others. – DA JOE BATE, LEEK JOE was born in 1937 and attended Longton Corps, where he became a bandsman and YP band leader.

In 1958 he married Shirley, to whom he was devoted, and in 1963 their daughter, Gillian, was born.

In 1981 the family transferred to Leek where he became recruiting sergeant and, in 1988, bandmaster – a position he held up until his promotion to Glory.

Joe also maintained links with Longton, leading the band practice for 14 years while they were without a bandmaster.

Music was Joe’s passion and his love for people and his Lord shone through. Many testified that it was Joe’s outreach and interest in them that brought them to faith or helped them return to the Lord.

Joe was immensely proud of his family.

He has left a void in their lives. In the front of his Bible are written these words: ‘I have done my best in the race, I have run the full

Issued by Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant and correct as of 3 pm on 13 July

collected. A privacy notice should already be on display, but it does not cover this new use of data. No request for any form of consent or signature is required.

The data must be locked away when not in use – or, if electronic, held on the secure Salvation Army network – and destroyed after 21 days. Pending further guidance, the minimum information necessary for this purpose should be recorded: a name and phone number will likely be sufficient.

Updated government advice on places of worship in England says that people attending with one other household should, wherever possible, not engage in

conversation with anyone outside of their group. This is to protect people and make any Test and Trace activity easier should anyone fall ill.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Based on government briefings, the territory is not permitting corps community activities to restart before 1 September 2020. Before they begin, a detailed community activity risk assessment will need to be completed and approved by DHQ. Further guidance on youth and children activities will come out in due course.

ANSWERS TO GLOBAL ARMY QUIZ (PAGE 24)

5. a. Danke 3. c. General André Cox 2. b. 2008 1. a. 13

CORPS REOPENING FOR WORSHIP Where corps are reopening for worship, government guidance states they should keep an accurate, temporary record of visitors and assist NHS Test and Trace with requests for that data, if needed, for contact tracing and the investigation of local outbreaks. This includes worship specifically for children and young people.

This collection and use of personal data is for a new purpose so people may have privacy concerns. To remain compliant with General Data Protection Regulation corps leaders will need to display a privacy notice at the point where this information is

PHILLIP HARRIS, BIRMINGHAM CITADEL PHIL was born in 1949 to Salvationist parents Hannah and Jim, and they attended Kidderminster. Upon moving to Cradley Heath some years later he met Jean.

They married in 1971 and, in 1972, they welcomed a daughter, Debbie, into their family.

Phil enjoyed a 30-year career as a police officer. He found his job to be extremely fulfilling and received commendations for his exemplary work. He was a committed bandsman and songster and held the position of band secretary at Birmingham Citadel, a role in which he excelled.

There were many challenges throughout Phil’s life but he faced each one with remarkable courage and a strong faith.

Even his battle with Parkinson’s disease and dementia couldn’t extinguish his amazing sense of humour.

Phil lived out his faith in so many ways.

He is now with his maker, whom he trusted and loved very much. – EH

4. b. ‘Be ready, be engaged and take

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

distance and I have kept the faith.’ They fully express his service, dedication and love for his Lord. – GJ

responsibility’

their daughter, Lesley, they entered the International Training College out of Retford. Their first appointment was at Marlow, and while there she studied at the University of London.

In 1978 the couple – now with a son, Matthew – took up an appointment at a corps in northern Italy, which included running an Army holiday centre and residential children’s camps.

Six years later the family returned to London where Kath served as the candidates studies officer and a Bible teacher at the training college. She found this period of service extremely fulfilling.

In 1994 she and David were appointed as leaders of the Italy Command, where people came to love her for her hard work and unpretentious ways.

On their return to the UK in 2002, Kath was appointed as the training college’s officer for distance learning, running the college’s correspondence courses, while serving as corps officer at Thurso in Scotland. When retirement came earlier than expected, she served as a hospital chaplain.

Around this time Kath had health problems that required surgery. She celebrated her recovery by cycling the Great Glen Way, as well as helping to oversee Wick Corps for some months.

Eight years later her illness returned.

Kath faced her final months with calm and

Salvationist 18 July 2020

23

15. b. Colonels Daniel and Tracey Kasuso

10. a. 13

14. b. Order of the Founder

9. b. Bangladesh

13. a. Salvation Patrol

8. b. New York

12. c. Kentucky

7. b. The Philippines

11. c. Displaced

6. c. Rolf Metzger

20. c. Korea 19. c. Time To Be Holy 18. b. Alexander Kharkov 17. a. 1882 16. c. Armáda Spásy

GLOBAL ARMY QUIZ The Salvation Army is active all over the world - test your knowledge of the global Movement In how many countries is The Salvation Army working worldwide? a. 131 b. 178 c. 205

1

In which year did the Movement’s work begin in Namibia and Mongolia? a. 2006 b. 2008 c. 2010

2

Who launched Australia One, amalgamating the Australia Eastern and Southern Territories? a. General Shaw Clifton b. General Linda Bond c. General André Cox

3

What is General Brian Peddle’s call to mission, launched in 2019? a. ‘A chosen people with a chosen purpose for a chosen mission’ b. ‘Be ready, be engaged and take responsibility’ c. ‘One Army, one mission, one message’

4

What is the Army’s periodical in the Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory? a. Danke (Thank you) b. Loben (Praise) c. Zeugen (Witnesses)

5

Who wrote Fragments Of Change, published by The Salvation Army in 2019? a. John Larsson b. Gordon Taylor c. Rolf Metzger

6

In which territory of The Salvation Army will you find Mindanao Island? a. Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands b. The Philippines c. Japan

7

Where is the International Social Justice Commission based? a. London b. New York c. Toronto

8

In the South East Asia Zone, which of the following is a command, not a territory? a. Pakistan b. Bangladesh c. Sri Lanka

9

10 a. 13 b. 23 c. 33

How many territories are there in total within the Africa Zone?

What is the name of The Salvation Army in the Czech Republic? a. Váleþný Pláþ b. Boží Lid c. Armáda Spásy

What Brazilian Army film explores life for refugees and migrants? a. Dislocated b. Dislodged c. Displaced

16

Which of the following states is included in the USA Eastern Territory? a. Tennessee b. Alabama c. Kentucky

17

In Mexico, the Army’s work began in 1934 through which group? a. Salvation Patrol b. Salvation People c. Salvation Partners

18

Which award did Philippe Clément (France and Belgium Territory) receive in 2019? a. Order of Distinguished Auxiliary Service b. Order of the Founder c. The Fellowship of the Silver Star

19

Who are the territorial leaders of the Southern Africa Territory? a. Colonels Ian and Wendy Swan b. Colonels Daniel and Tracey Kasuso c. Commissioners Joash and Florence Malabi

20

11

12 13 14 15

When did the Movement’s work commence in India? a. 1882 b. 1892 c. 1902 Who became the first Russian officer to lead the Russia Command? a. Svetlana Sharova b. Alexander Kharkov c. Vadim Khurin What is the name of IHQ’s Bible studies launched as part of Reimagining Women’s Ministries? a. Time To Praise b. Time To Go c. Time To Be Holy In which territory or command will you find the country Mongolia? a. Russia b. India Northern c. Korea

O Answers on page 23