Salvationist 31 October 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1780 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 31 October 2020

Stepping up New territorial envoys tell their stories PLUS

CHRISTMAS OVERSEAS MAILING LIST

SEE PAGES 20 AND 21

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

NEW REPORT CLAIMS UK CHURCHES PROVIDED £12.4BN WORTH OF SUPPORT TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

SCRIPTURE UNION LAUNCHES NEW FRAMEWORK TO REACH MISSING GENERATION OF YOUNG PEOPLE

Church leaders want urgent financial support from the government to protect church buildings…

A new report has highlighted the UK’s increasing reliance on mainly volunteer-led services including food banks, mental health counselling and youth groups based in churches, chapels and meeting houses.

The House Of Good report from the National Churches Trust found UK churches provided £12.4 billion worth of essential social and economic support to local communities during the 12 months up until May 2020.

That’s roughly equal to the total NHS spending in England on mental health in 2018…

Chief Executive of the National Churches Trust Claire Walker said…

‘For the most vulnerable in our society, the support church buildings offer is not a recreational choice – and lockdown served to highlight the increasing reliance of people on this support’…

The report states that most churches that provided community support during the Covid-19 pandemic are under threat because support for essential maintenance and repair from the government and other funding bodies is drying up.

Walker added… ‘For this reason, we are urgently calling on local and national government and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to recognise the continuing need for their support.’

Scripture Union (SU) has launched a new mission framework to reach young people – the missing generation from many UK churches.

‘Revealing Jesus’… aims to reach the 95 per cent of under-18s across England and Wales who do not go to church.

SU is encouraging churches to recruit ‘faith guides’ – volunteers who feel called to engage with children and young people outside the Church...

Volunteers will be trained in mentoring younger Christians through four stages in their development of a personal Christian faith – from making initial connections and seeking out opportunities to explore the faith, to making a personal response to Jesus and finally a lifelong commitment to grow in the Christian faith.

Hard-won gains in equality and human rights in the UK are at risk of being reversed by the coronavirus pandemic... the UK human rights watchdog has said.

A report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission says young people, ethnic minorities, older people and disabled people have been disproportionately hit by the pandemic, which has highlighted and widened existing inequalities.

‘While everyone has been affected by either the virus or the restrictions imposed... our report shows that the negative impact has been more severe for some groups...’ said Caroline Waters, the commission’s interim chair…

She added: ‘Without a clear strategy... the small gains we have made in equality and human rights over the past few years are set to reverse.’

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Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891

DRAMATIC INCREASE IN UK SLAVERY SURVIVORS BEING SUPPORTED BY THE SALVATION ARMY Record numbers of UK nationals have been helped by The Salvation Army after escaping from modern forms of slavery.

New figures show a 79 per cent increase in British slavery survivors being helped by the church’s specialist support services, despite a fall in referrals during lockdown.

Of the 243 Britons helped last year, 111 were coerced into criminal exploitation like begging and drug dealing, 70 were the victims of forced labour and 46 were sexually exploited…

Major Kathy Betteridge, The Salvation Army’s Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery, said many more people could become victims as a result of the pandemic...

‘Further lockdown restrictions mean we are spending more time at home and there are fewer physical interactions for suspicions to be raised.’

She called on members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

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Salvationist 31 October 2020

EQUALITY GAINS IN THE UK RISK BEING REVERSED BY CORONAVIRUS, SAYS EHRC

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS

REFLECTING ON LIFE REGULAR readers of Salvationist may have noticed that in recent months we’ve featured a number of ‘reflection’ articles. We seem to have been sent more of these during the coronavirus pandemic and they have been welcome, not only because they have provided material when news and new commitments have been scarce but also, much more importantly, because they have been encouraging, thought-provoking and spiritually uplifting.

The reason for the increase in these may be because people have been in a more reflective mood. When people face crisis experiences – personally, in their communities, nationally or globally – they tend to start thinking more deeply about their lives, their work and their families. Whereas in normal times we easily take these things for granted, in more testing times – when health, relationships, livelihoods or faith are challenged – we are perhaps led to reflect on their importance more intensely.

Christians will include their relationship with God in these reflections.

All sorts of things can inspire reflective thinking, including people, events or objects around us. For example, Nicola Walmsley on page 12 draws inspiration from the day lilies in her garden as she reflects on the need to make the most of each day.

On page 13 Major Peter Mylechreest highlights some of the lessons people have learnt as they’ve reflected on their experiences during the pandemic. In his article on page 14 Trevor Caffull reflects on how local lockdowns have the potential to divide people but says the best way to face the crisis is to unite and work together. In an article from our archives on page 15 Captain Callum McKenna uses Halloween as a starting point to reflect on how Christians might engage with difficult cultural issues.

It’s not long until Advent, traditionally a time of reflection as we consider our lives in the light of Jesus’ coming. Page 19 highlights books that can help us do that at the end of a year when many people’s lives have been turned upside down.

The practice of theological reflection has become prominent in the Church over the past 40 years or so. It’s been used in theological education to help ground learning in real life, and the Army has adopted it in the form of Faith-Based Facilitation, which is used, for example, in corps mission development planning. The idea is that we examine an experience and reflect on it in the light of the Bible and Christian teaching before planning actions that build on what we have learnt. This leads to new experiences we can reflect on, and so the cycle begins again.

This kind of reflective learning shouldn’t be confined to theological education or mission planning; it can be part of our personal spiritual formation, helping us integrate faith and life. We needn’t just let life happen to us. Instead, we can reflect on it, learn and grow from it and move forward with a deeper faith and a greater capacity to serve others.

If you have reflected on something that happened to you and learnt from it, why not write about it in approximately 700 words and send it to me? Share your reflections and let other readers benefit from them too.

Quotes from the media

2

News feature 4 and 5 Light, life and love experienced during online congress

by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

News

6 to 8

Prayer matters

8

Letters

9

Feature Taking up the challenge

10 and 11

Reflection Day beautiful

12

by Nicola Walmsley

Reflection Lessons learnt

13

by Major Peter Mylechreest

Viewpoint A time to unite

14

by Trevor Caffull

From the archive Tricky (or treat) issues

15

by Captain Callum McKenna

Bible study Lord, be my help

16 and 17

by Major Kathleen Versfeld

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Lynda Levis

New commitments

18

Preview Books for Advent and beyond

19

Christmas mailing list

20 and 21

Announcements

22

Adverts

23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Major Debbie Nield

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

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NEWS FEATURE

Light, life and love experienced during online congress

The Chief of the Staff

UKI SALVATIONISTS and friends from across the territory and beyond joined together in spirit for inspiring congress meetings hosted online by territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill, writes LieutColonel Jonathan Roberts.

The congress was broadcast on the same weekend as the original event was due to take place in Newport, Wales, and with the same theme – Light, Life And Love – taken from a line in Albert Orsborn’s song, ‘Light, life and love are in that healing fountain’ (SASB 742).

Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham 4

Salvationist 31 October 2020

Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill Jesus, Light Of The World was the theme of the Saturday meeting, which began with a visual depiction of the Creation before Commissioner Gill welcomed viewers and introduced the guest speakers for the weekend, Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham.

The focus on Creation continued with the congregational song ‘Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee’ (SASB 39) before prayers from representatives of the corps farthest north (Madaleine Maclean, Kirkwall), east (Lisa King, Lowestoft Citadel), south (Lieutenant Alice Nunn, Jersey) and west (corps folk at

Enniskillen), giving the sense of the territory being surrounded by prayer. The MACA (Music and Creative Arts) dance group then brought an interpretation of the song ‘Indescribable’, each of the five members having filmed themselves separately outdoors.

Three corps folk from Govan each read verses from John 1:1–18 and ‘light bulb moments’ were shared by Catherine Mapfumo (Hemel Hempstead) and Ella Doheny (Abergavenny), who spoke about times when God had revealed himself to them.

Many corps sections have produced virtual music items during the pandemic, and Castleford Singing Company presented their own example as they encouraged viewers to shine for Jesus with ‘Shine Your Light’.

‘When Shall I Come’, a contemporary version of the congress theme song ‘The Healing Waters’, was brought by the group transMission (USA Southern Territory), which led into the message from Commissioner Bronwyn, who referred to the Bible’s emphasis on God as light, the promise of the coming of the light in Isaiah 9 and its fulfilment in Jesus. She encouraged those who had not yet accepted him to open their lives to ‘the one who shines light into the dark spaces of our lives’ and challenged those who had accepted him to allow the Holy Spirit to shine through them into a dark world.

Catherine Mapfumo

Birmingham Citadel Singing Company

Niclette Lutete

CSM Vernon Smallwood

Captain Alison Hutchings and SL Joy Wood There was opportunity to respond in personal prayer or by contacting the Territorial Prayer Network as the International Staff Songsters sang ‘Shine On Us’ and Elliott Chappell (Regent Hall) drew images illustrating the light, grace and love mentioned in the song.

The International Staff Band had presented ‘Let There Be Light’ earlier in the meeting, and in the closing moments brought the big band-style ‘Light-Walk’ as Salvationists were shown shining the light of Christ by giving practical help during the pandemic. The meeting concluded with the ISB playing the final section of ‘Shine As The Light’, featuring the song ‘Wonderful Counsellor’ with its climactic affirmation that ‘the light has come’.

The Sunday meeting, themed Life And Love, began with ‘Crown Him With Many Crowns’ (SASB 358) before the ISS sang ‘Breathe’, reminding viewers of the source of spiritual life – ‘Your holy presence living in me’ – and leading into prayers by the Laird family (Croydon Citadel).

Territorial Candidates Director Major Janet Robson and her team introduced and prayed for seven new territorial envoys, whose photos appeared on the screen, and after ‘The Healing Waters’, brought by the ISS, Envoys

One of the MACA dance group

Elliot Chappell’s drawing of ‘Shine On Us’

Jane and Kevin Sandford (Indonesia) read 1 John 4:7–12.

The TC expressed gratitude to Colonels Lee and Debbie Graves (Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development) for their past two years of service in the territory as they go to appointments at International Headquarters.

Birmingham Citadel Singing Company presented ‘All My Thanks’, a song based on Psalm 54, which was written by BM Gavin Lamplough and the singing company members during lockdown.

In a This Time Tomorrow interview SL Joy Wood (Southport) spoke to her corps officer, Captain Alison Hutchings, about her work and witness at Edge Hill University. Referring to her work colleagues, she said: ‘I would love to think that I add a bit of salt and light into their lives.’

Staff Songsters Helen Dymott and Neil Lacey lifted up the name of Jesus with ‘What A Beautiful Name’ before the Chief of the Staff ’s Bible message.

‘Perhaps the most powerful words that I can offer to you this morning are “God loves you”,’ he said, and challenged the viewers by adding: ‘I want to ask you today if you are a lover of God?’

The Chief stressed that our love for God is demonstrated in our love for our neighbour. When we know God’s love, love him return and love others, then we experience fullness of life.

As the ISB played ‘Consecration Hymn’ viewers were again invited to pray at home or send prayer requests to the Territorial Prayer Network. The prayer time concluded with Major Howard Webber’s poem, ‘Fill Me With Your Spirit, Lord’, read by Niclette Lutete (Dublin City), CYS Shetal Patel (Gloucester), CSM Vernon Smallwood (Coedpoeth), reading in Welsh, and Deniece Brooks (Gillingham).

In final comments the TC said: ‘May something of the Jesus life live in you and in me, to his glory and praise, and be a blessing to the people we come into contact with.’

That thought was echoed in the closing song ‘Rejoice! Rejoice!’ (SASB 389), which encouraged and challenged viewers with the words: ‘He lives! He lives! His breath is in you,/ Arise a mighty army, we arise.’

O The

congress meetings can be watched at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo Salvationist 31 October 2020

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NEWS

ARMY NEWS

COMMUNITY Hemel Hempstead corps officer Major Sarah Murray receives food and clothes from Tesco community champion Tricia

John Lennon’s piano joins exhibition STRAWBERRY FIELD THE piano that John Lennon used to compose ‘Imagine’ is on loan to Liverpool’s Strawberry Field exhibition courtesy of the estate of the late George Michael.

The piano was delivered to the centre to mark what would have been Lennon’s 80th birthday.

John’s sister, Julia Baird, who is honorary president of Strawberry Field, said: ‘Strawberry Field played a pivotal role in John’s childhood as one of the first places that sparked his young imagination while living on nearby Menlove Avenue. It’s fitting therefore that this piano should find a new home here, where The Salvation Army continues

to do such good work with young adults with learning difficulties.’

The piano, which was toured globally by George Michael as a symbol of peace in the early 2000s, has never before been placed in a location so steeped in John Lennon’s history.

Mission Director for Strawberry Field Major Kathy Versfeld said: ‘Strawberry Field has been a place of refuge and peace for all those who, like John, sought sanctuary beyond its beautiful red gates. We are absolutely delighted to display this wonderful “instrument of peace”, sharing as we do with its owners an enduring passion for peacemaking and the transformation of communities and individual lives. We are grateful for this generous loan and know that it will make a huge difference to the work that we are able to do.’ – AR

ENFIELD Corps folk and band members gifted spare Christmas carol books and tune books to Lydia, a friend of Bandmaster Don Jenkins, to be passed on to a small corps in Kenya. Due to coronavirus restrictions at the time the presentation could not take place at the corps, but Lydia visited Don to receive them.

She expressed her sincere thanks for the kind gesture and said the Kenyan corps would be thrilled to receive the books. – SF

CORPS

CORPS

PENGE The corps purchased a number of Talkies Video Books to enable those without internet access to watch the Sunday meeting during the week. Volunteers upload the videos each week and deliver them to corps members. Pictured is corps officer Major Janice Snell delivering a video to Major Elsie Grassham. – JS 6

Salvationist 31 October 2020

BELFAST CITADEL YP workers assembled 77 pencil cases containing stationery sets, colouring pencils, highlighters and ‘back to school’ bookmarks for distribution to Kids Alive and youth group members. This was a great opportunity to visit the young people, many of whom had not been seen since March, although they have been receiving weekly letters and activities.

They are greatly missed at the corps. – NM

COMMUNITY

FUNDRAISING

Officers heralded for food bank efforts

Vero Moda and Army ‘Share the Warmth’ EUROPE

JERSEY CORPS officers Lieutenants Alice and Richard Nunn have been nominated for the Jersey Evening Post’s Angel of the Year award for their efforts in setting up a new food bank for the island.

The corps usually has a small food cupboard for emergencies, but when the lockdown hit a large-scale food bank was set up to serve hungry people with food parcels. It has helped more than 600 people and 300 families during the pandemic.

Patrick Lynch, who nominated Alice and Richard for the award, said: ‘There was a huge need for this service, as many people were shielding and others had lost their jobs or had much reduced incomes.

Within a few days, Alice and Richard had pulled together a team of charities and volunteers, began fundraising, and put a system in place to provide help to all those who needed it.

‘Without their work, lockdown would’ve been much more difficult for so many people. They are true “angels” who have gone beyond the call of duty.’ – AR Send your news reports to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

Good quality pictures will be included.

BARKING Since the beginning of the lockdown, the corps has served 10,000 hot meals through its takeaway service. The initiative supports rough sleepers and other people in the community who are experiencing psychological and financial difficulties. A number of strong relationships have been forged and prayers are offered up for each person contacted. The corps offers a huge thank you to all the volunteers. – SW

INTERNATIONAL

DUNSTABLE Team Noble collectively ran 100km to raise funds for the Big Collection. Robert and Marion completed 10.5km and 12.1km respectively. Their daughter, Heather, set off at 7 am and ran 41.8km by lunchtime. Their son, Peter, who is in the military, ran 32.2km in full military kit along the towpath of his local canal. He was joined by his wife, Lauren, and their dog, Flynn, for the final 9.7km. With Marion’s 83-year-old mother, Joan Papps, also walking 0.8km, the family’s combined efforts have raised more than £2,100. – JB

FUNDRAISING

UPPER NORWOOD On three days in August and September, before the current coronavirus restrictions, Major Ruth Clarke, a retired officer who soldiers at the corps, hosted a CakeQuest and a PieQuest in her back garden. On each occasion, two people from the same household enjoyed coffee and scones and were able to take away cakes or pies, marmalade or tiffin, and scones or crumble for a £10 donation. A total of £370 was raised for corps funds. – RC

FASHION brand Vero Moda is working with the Army to provide vital winter clothing to keep vulnerable women warm. The company encouraged customers to donate preowned coats and jackets to help ‘Share the Warmth’, in exchange for a 20 per cent discount off a new garment when purchased instore.

The campaign ran in all Vero Moda stores across Europe.

Salvation Army teams collected the donated items from participating stores and checked each piece of clothing. Any damage will be repaired so that women in need will only receive fit-for-purpose clothing.

In a similar initiative run in Denmark during autumn 2019, about 6,000 items were collected and distributed to vulnerable women. The garments collected this year will be distributed via the Army’s network of shelters and social services centres. – AR RIPLEY The corps food bank, which serves all of Amber Valley, has seen a 100 per cent increase in demand since the coronavirus outbreak. Rotary Club members from Amber Valley and across Derbyshire were on hand to help by delivering more than 80 boxes of staple foods. They are working as part of a region-wide scheme called Rotary4foodbanks, which raises funds to buy food in bulk. – AR

COMMUNITY

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Salvationist 31 October 2020

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Prayer

NEWS

NEWS

OUTREACH INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOCUS

by Ben Gilbert (International Development Team Leader, THQ)

SATURDAY 31 OCTOBER – GENDER JUSTICE When someone is abused because of their gender, it exploits the very identity of who they are made to be. The Salvation Army International Development UK (Said UK) is supporting a number of gender justice projects around the world, such as group therapy for survivors of domestic violence in Argentina and women’s advocacy in Pakistan. Pray that those who are involved in helping these survivors will have wisdom in how to heal the wounds from trauma.

CIRENCESTER Peter Grace, who shares the paper sales ministry with corps leader Territorial Envoy Kim Whyard, has constructed a trolley for the socially distanced selling of Army papers in the town centre. A street collection that was postponed earlier in the year also took place to raise funds for the Big Collection, while a small group of corps members conducted a prayer walk around the town and made a number of socially distanced contacts. – MG

SUNDAY 1 NOVEMBER – EMERGENCY RESPONSE Lives are devastated when disasters strike. Working closely with territories around the world, Said UK supports the global response, recovery and reparation of communities that are affected by global emergencies and disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes and other types. Pray for the work of The Salvation Army around the world as it reaches out to those who are affected by disasters.

REMEMBRANCE FOCUS

COMMUNITY

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, THQ)

MONDAY 2 NOVEMBER Today is All Souls Day. Let us take the opportunity to remember before God all those whose influence in our lives continues though they are no longer physically with us. We give thanks for the hope that we will be reunited with them in Heaven.

TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER – PSALM 139:13–16 What is your earliest memory? What is your first memory of knowing God’s presence in your life? Reflect on your journey, pray and give thanks that God formed you and knew you even before you were born.

PORTSMOUTH CITADEL Painting Our World In Silver, a charity that provides craft activities in community centres for older people, gave out care packages to be distributed by community groups. After being donated craft packs, puzzle books and jigsaws during lockdown, the corps recently received 250 afternoon tea packs. Corps members and the Good Neighbours befriending scheme, which keeps in touch with more than 400 older people by telephone, have been busy delivering them and catching up with people through socially distanced doorstep visits. This has been linked with online Sunday worship, which includes a message and a greeting from Assistant Director for Older People’s Ministries Andrew Wileman. – AS

CORPS CIRENCESTER The young people’s work continues online using Zoom meetings and materials from the Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit. Members of the Sunday club also take an active part in a monthly family service led by group leader Corinne Walters and Deputy Songster Leader Mark Walters. – MG 8

Salvationist 31 October 2020

COMMUNITY SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING Replacing the usual Harvest display, an appeal was made for donations of tinned food. Community Secretary Jan Davey delivered 150 tins of food, together with woollen winter hats and gloves, to the Booth Centre Lifehouse on behalf of the corps.

– BE

WEDNESDAY 4 NOVEMBER – GENESIS 32:26 Can you bring to mind today an encounter with God that changed the direction of your life? Perhaps there have been several such events. Reflect on what you discovered about yourself and God, praying in the words of Jacob at Bethel: ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.’

THURSDAY 5 NOVEMBER – GENESIS 8:1 When the Bible says ‘God remembered’, the Hebrew word used is the verb zakar which means ‘to turn attention to someone and act on their behalf ’. God remembering Noah does not imply that he had ever been forgotten, rather that there was a decisive moment for God to act in what appeared to be a hopeless situation. Reflect, pray and thank God for the assurance of hope whatever your current circumstances may be.

FRIDAY 6 NOVEMBER – LUKE 23:42 ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom’ was the simple yet profound heart cry of the thief crucified next to Jesus. In his dying moments he glimpsed the salvation offered by Jesus and acknowledged him as his Lord and Saviour. Reflect, pray and ask God to enable you to know his presence today as you voice that simple prayer: ‘Jesus, remember me.’

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources Salvationist 31 October 2020

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LETTERS

INCREASING OUR UNDERSTANDING AS a former member of MASIC (The Salvation Army’s Moral and Social Issues Council), I was struck by how cautiously and carefully matters of doctrine and morality were considered. During the years of my membership any changes to positional statements were made slowly and conservatively.

In the 3 October issue of Salvationist we saw a most interesting and challenging piece about conscious and unconscious bias: ‘Racing to justice’ by Captain Ben Cotterill. By contrast in the same issue, ‘Promoters of faith’ by Major Bryan Snell suggested, in a somewhat reactionary mode, that Salvation Army publications should not be examining questions such as how and when the Creation occurred.

Coincidentally (or was it?) the 10 October issue was full of articles exploring issues of faith, including ‘Faith in a food parcel’ and ‘False religion is worthless’.

In my view every prayer we make and every song we sing (silently) is an assertion of faith. Fear of Bible verses being open to honest examination and consideration should not deter us. For example mental illness, demonic possession (Matthew 8) or homosexuality (Leviticus 18; Leviticus 20; 2 Samuel 1).

None of these should make us resistant to new knowledge. All of us, whether younger or older, can listen to God’s voice to increase our understanding, believing in faith that he still has new things to reveal.

Mike Stubbings Southsea

Readers’ letters are a popular and well-read section of Salvationist. Many years ago General Frederick Coutts said letters for publication in the Army’s press should be ‘carefully thought out, logically presented and charitably expressed’.

Letters may be edited and should ideally be no more than 300 words.

MEETINGS OR SERVICES? WE wondered if we had missed a change in our rules recently. Looking at lots of online meetings and even references in Salvationist there seems to have been quite a marked change in the language used in recent months from what we have used without any problem in The Salvation Army since 1878: ‘Meetings’ seem to have been replaced by ‘services’; ‘songs’ seem to have been replaced by ‘hymns’; and ‘corps’ and ‘halls’ seem to have been replaced by ‘churches’.

Is there now something wrong with going to the hall or virtually to a Salvation Army ‘meeting’, and singing (or at the moment listening) to ‘songs’?

In our ministry as officers for the past 34 years we have never found using the terms initiated by William Booth as he started our great Movement to be in any way an obstacle to reaching out to people in God’s name. Have we missed something?

Heather and Richard Durrant Majors North Walsham

FINDING WAYS TO CONNECT I WAS pleased to see in a recent copy of Salvationist that I was not the only person challenged by Adrian Lyons’ article ‘Crossing the threshold’ (15 August). So much of the content resonated with me and I kept a copy to aid the discussion currently taking place at the corps I attend.

Last Christmas while carolling we gave out hundreds of leaflets inviting people to the corps with a special emphasis on the Carols by Candlelight and Christmas Day services. Many people expressed an interest and, while we were pleased to welcome a couple of first-timers, it was nothing like the number who told me they would attend.

I am not tech-savvy and pre-lockdown I had never heard of half the social media platforms that I read corps are currently using to great advantage. I would never have thought in a million years that I would find myself using such tools yet I am discovering what an effective means they are to connect with people. So, is this the way forward?

I was privileged to be part of the planning team for the Enabled Summer School at Home. We were all quite nervous, yet the report in Salvationist (29 August) clearly showed we had a fantastic week. The benefit of doing an online school was that some members who would not have been able to attend were able to join in, as did family and friends. The number of people that viewed each activity was astonishing; one session even exceeded 2,000 views!

My corps has been using Zoom for quite a few activities.

The content of our Sunday meeting has changed over the months and I think most people are enjoying this relaxed approach to worship. The numbers have increased each week

and our average ‘attendance’ is now more than if we were meeting at the hall. One of the lovely things is we are connecting with people who were once part of the corps fellowship.

I recently had the privilege of leading the meeting as this was to include the dedication of my great-great nephew. Whereas I would normally outline the promises being made, instead I invited the parents to both publicly declare their intentions in terms of giving their child fully to God. I really felt this strengthened the significance of the occasion. More than 150 people virtually attended this meeting, which included some who were once Salvationists.

I think that we could build on this less threatening approach to invite people to join us online for our Christmas services.

This may then be a stepping-stone to successfully getting folks to ‘cross the threshold’ when our doors can safely reopen.

Angela Irving Lieut-Colonel Paignton

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FEATURE I Territorial envoys

TAKING UP THE CHALLENGE Five territorial envoys share their stories during their early days of service as corps leaders ROGER COATES Reading Lower Earley AFTER Vision and Commitment Sunday in January 2014 I had a conversation with my corps officers, explaining that I felt God wanted my availability at the corps. I waited for a response. It came in September that year when they asked me to consider becoming the corps sergeantmajor.

As CSM, I had to take responsibility for leading the corps and work with the leadership team through some difficult times. During this period the divisional leaders asked me what gave me the most fulfilment – my paid employment or my role in the corps. This question played on my mind for many weeks as God continued to use the experience I was having at the corps to confirm to me a calling to full-time spiritual leadership.

Seeing people respond to God’s leading in worship and grow in their faith was a clear indication that he was using me and wanted to use me more.

I thank God that he placed people in my life then as he is doing now to support me as I step into my calling.

I encourage you to listen to God and step out in faith.

It’s worth it!

Pictures: SARAH KING

MATTHEW GRIFFITHS Malvern GOD has been calling me for many years, always with the word ‘more’ – calling me to do more with my life and to serve him in more ways.

During the 2012 I’ll Fight congress, I felt God telling me that now was the time. Since then my calling has become more pronounced and has been affirmed through many different people and the situations I have been in.

For the past 14 years I have worked at Cradley Heath Corps and had the opportunity to develop my faith and understand my calling further. In 2018 my wife, Sarah, was commissioned as an officer and we moved to Malvern. We welcomed Max into our family in 2019. While we have been at Malvern we have had the opportunity to share in ministry together and develop even further.

I know that God is telling me that now is the right time to trust him and take the next step in my journey by becoming a territorial envoy. I am excited to see what he has in store for me and my family.

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Salvationist 31 October 2020

MARTYN COLES Newquay I FIRST started to hear God’s prompting towards corps leadership while taking part in the Growing Leaders course run by the Devon and Cornwall Division. The course enabled me to take the time to know God on a deeper level, explore my spiritual gifts and discover how my life fitted within his plan.

I’d served as the divisional youth specialist for the past seven years, with the privilege of journeying with young people and youth leaders as they explored their calling and what it meant to live with authenticity. In the months following Growing Leaders I quickly realised that I needed to be obedient and authentic in responding to God’s call on my life to become a territorial envoy.

As I have journeyed through the application process I’ve been reminded of words from 1 Thessalonians 5:24: ‘The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.’ I can testify to the fact that God has kept his promise so far and I trust that he will be with me in the coming days.

I’m excited to be in this next phase of my life ALEXANDER ‘SANDY’ REYNOLDS Stirling I HAD a chaotic lifestyle before I came to know the Lord – it was full of drink, drugs and violence. I had been in and out of prison and was involved in organised crime.

I had to deal with things like my father being murdered and three death threats against me followed by failed attempts on my life.

When I look back now, I can see that I was lost. But I also see that God was always with me.

The night I came to the Lord I was working as a pub doorman. I got chatting to one of the street pastors, who asked me if I read the Bible. I told her I didn’t as the print was too small. A few weeks later she returned with a large-print Bible with a piece of Scripture written on the front. I read it and thought it made sense, so I started going to church and my life began getting better.

However, I was still drinking and taking cocaine, and repeatedly ended up in court. I was expecting to go back to prison but instead got 120 hours’ community service and was sent to The Salvation Army. This was the best thing that ever happened to me. After my community service was over I volunteered full-time. I later got full-time employment with the Army. I gave up alcohol and drugs and became a soldier.

I just love the way God gave me the opportunity to help others. A vacancy came up in the corps for a drugs and alcohol support worker. I had a good knowledge of this so applied for the job, as I felt God wanted me to do more. I got an interview, which made me think this was what God wanted, but I could not answer a single question right. I didn’t get that job, as it was not God’s plan.

I went to the mercy seat and asked God to let me know what he wanted from me. A few weeks later I was speaking with the divisional commander about me not getting the job. She said it is OK to walk with the sick, but we must do as Jesus did and heal them. It was like a light getting switched on as I realised that the best way of healing someone is to bring them to a knowledge of the Lord. That is when I discovered my calling.

I met Jesus in a pub doorway and he has opened another door – a door of service as a territorial envoy.

ELAINE ROGERS Ashton-in-Makerfield FROM a very young age I grew up loving God. This was nurtured through the Sunday school stalwarts of Farnworth Corps, each of them giving of themselves unconditionally.

Later, as a young Christian, I knew God had his hand on my life and was calling me to do and be more. However, sometimes we don’t obey and put excuses in the way. That was me.

I continued to resist God’s calling for many years. Eventually I surrendered – and here I am! I am so excited to be in this next phase of my life, journeying as a territorial envoy, ready to give God the best and the rest of my life.

John 13:34 says: ‘A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.’ I know that God has given me a heart to love others and to love big. My prayer is that as I share the love of Jesus with everyone I meet, they will come to love the Jesus that I know and serve, and that they will continue to love others in response to his great love.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Territorial Candidates Director Major Janet Robson answers some questions about being a territorial envoy

HOW MANY TERRITORIAL ENVOYS ARE THERE? The UKI Territory is blessed to have 59 territorial envoys providing leadership to corps in a range of different communities.

WHAT DO THEY DO? Territorial envoyship offers a great opportunity to serve in spiritual leadership. The day-to-day role of serving as a corps leader is the same as that of a commissioned officer serving as a corps officer. Territorial envoys receive an allowance on a similar basis to officers.

HOW LONG DO THEY SERVE? Territorial envoys tend to sign up for a minimum of three years, with some serving for much longer. Many serve in their own division.

WHO CAN BECOME A TERRITORIAL ENVOY? Territorial envoyship is open to any soldier between the ages of 18 and 65.

HOW DO I BECOME ONE? Your corps officer will pass on your application to DHQ, which liaises with the Candidates Unit to support the process. Anyone entering into service will receive on-the-job training and support from William Booth College.

Salvationist 31 October 2020

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REFLECTION RE R EFL EF FLE LEC ECT TIIO ON N

Day beautiful Nicola Walmsley learns a lesson from nature

D

URING the spring and summer months my husband, Colin, grows beautiful flowers. Our English country garden is our happy place, and during lockdown it has been a haven of perfume and loveliness. In July and August we had day lilies flowering, and they inspired some thoughts about how precious time and life are.

Day lilies are from the family Hemerocallis, which originates from the Greek word hemera, meaning ‘day’, and kalos, meaning ‘beautiful’ – day beautiful.

A day lily blooms for only 24 hours, then it fades, closes and dies. They aren’t cut for bouquets or arrangements as they don’t last long enough. Their living beauty is enjoyed for such a short period that their trumpet-shaped flowers seem to herald carpe diem: ‘seize the day!’

‘So watch your step. Use your head.

Make the most of every chance you get.

These are desperate times!’ (Ephesians 5:15 and 16 The Message). When I see my orange day lilies I am reminded not to be in such a hurry and become too busy. I’m reminded that life is fleeting, so I need to take time to notice the beauty that surrounds me: smell that exquisite Ena Harkness rose and that sweet nectar; stop and listen to that blackbird singing its heart out just for the sheer pleasure of it; enjoy the warmth of the sun’s rays; and delight in being 12

Salvationist 31 October 2020

caught out barefoot on the lawn by a sudden shower as I take the washing off the line.

I feel compelled by these verses of Scripture: ‘In your hearts revere Christ as Lord.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect’ (1 Peter 3:15).

‘How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?’

(Romans 10:14).

Like a day lily – here today, then gone tomorrow – life is beautiful and short.

The opportunities I am privileged to encounter may only be momentary. That is why I am compelled to speak up and tell others of the hope I have in Christ Jesus, of the love he has for them and his free gift of salvation.

Here, then, is our challenge: ‘Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others… For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again… We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s

behalf: be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God… As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. For he says, “In the time of my favour I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation’ (2 Corinthians 5:11–21, 6:1 and 2). There is an urgency in these verses, admonishing us to seize the day.

I returned to work after four months of furlough and I’m getting to know the new corps officers, Lieutenants Jonathan and Kathryn Whitmore. We have been busy making the hall ready and safe for reopening to meet the public and, as Christ’s ambassadors, we eagerly await the opportunities to share the love of Jesus with people in the community. We are ready to seize the day, and what a day it will be when we finally reopen!

Each fleeting day, God makes these connections possible. So I wonder: what will you do with your life? Will you make the most of the opportunities to share God’s free gift with those you meet? Will you seize the day beautiful?

NICOLA IS THE COMMUNITY MISSION FACILITATOR, BARROW-IN-FURNESS

R RE EFL FLEC FLE ECTI TIO ON N REFLECTION

Major Peter Mylechreest encourages us to hold on to what we have found to be true

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AVE the weeks of strict lockdown and the restrictions imposed since been a help to you or a trial? This has been an unusual year, and for many people a time of stress and tribulation. How we approach these difficulties is a personal response.

James, during a time of great uncertainty, wrote: ‘When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives my brothers, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realise that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed, and you will find you have become men of mature character’ (James 1:2–4 JB Phillips).

Has our patience had the opportunity to grow? Are we stronger in character?

A wise man once said that there is no point in suffering if we don’t learn from it. He was talking in the context of being hurt in a relationship, but the same maxim could be applied to many other scenarios.

Paul the apostle went through horrendous sufferings. He lists some of them in 2 Corinthians 11: he was in prison, severely flogged, beaten with rods, pelted with stones, shipwrecked three times, received forty lashes five times, in danger wherever he went, sometimes without food, and so on.

Yet he wrote to the Philippians: ‘I have learnt to be content, whatever the circumstances may be. I know now how to live when things are difficult and I know how to live when things

are prosperous… I am ready for anything through the strength of the one who lives within me’ (4:12 and 13 JBP). Paul leant heavily on Christ’s support, so that at any time and in any way he learnt to be content. Has what we have learnt changed our perception and ushered in a new way of doing things? For many people, the lockdown experience has been a form of suffering and a steep learning curve as they have endeavoured to deal with a whole range of situations not previously considered likely.

Paul learnt that, strangely, suffering helped him to be a better follower of Jesus. He writes: ‘We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us – they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady’ (Romans 5:3 and 4 The Living Bible).

Here are some lessons people have told me they’ve learnt during the trauma of recent months: ‘I suddenly realised that none of us is immortal and I’ve stopped to think through what my life is all about.’

‘I have rediscovered how important my family is to me.’

‘I am going to make sure that I focus on living rather than just existing to work and eat and sleep.’

‘Being locked in with my small children 24/7 has been exhausting, and I now have much greater sympathy for my stay-at-home wife.’

‘It has confirmed for me that my

faith is an integral part of my being.’

‘Even when we return to normal I am going to pursue my new-found hobby.’

‘I have seen how out of touch I was with my teenage son. I’m now trying to build bridges.’

‘Self-isolation hasn’t been the hardship I imagined it would be. I had in my mind that it would be like solitary confinement, hemmed in, completely cut off – but my mobile has been a lifeline.’

‘If I had realised that lockdown was going to be so long I would have rearranged my priorities much earlier.’

On reflection, many may realise that such things have always been true and that recent events have brought them into focus.

Paul, who benefited so much from all he had learnt, passed on wise advice to Timothy, encouraging him to hold on to all those things he found to be true: ‘Continue in what you have learnt and what you have become convinced of’ (2 Timothy 3:14 Tree Of Life Version).

As the country, and indeed the world, eventually and gradually moves back to more normal times, may the good intentions expressed over the past few months be realised in our living. May the positive things we have learnt be consolidated, and may the God who specialises in those intangible aspects of love, beauty and truth be with us all.

MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS THQ CHAPLAIN Salvationist 31 October 2020

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VIEW POINT

A time to unite As coronavirus restrictions prove divisive, Trevor Caffull urges us to face the future together

M

Y sense is that these past two or three weeks have been difficult. Not necessarily for me personally – although I’ve certainly had better – but for us as a nation.

A friend of mine emailed a few days ago and, in jest I think, asked if I was starting to suffer ‘creeping lockdown blues’. While I don’t think I am, I certainly perceive that the country is.

Tackling the renewed spread of Covid-19 in what seemed to me to be an entirely logical approach – greater restrictions in more badly affected areas – started to emerge as a divisive strategy. We appeared to have become less tolerant. While complete lockdown in March was accepted almost without challenge, the recent suggestion that pubs, bars and clubs should close at 10 pm (or whatever the local restriction might be) seemed to elicit huge opposition, with political leaders and the press whipping up a frenzy of criticism.

I was quite taken by a comment from England football manager Gareth Southgate. He had been asked about the behaviour of three young members of his squad who had disregarded rules about mixing in other people’s houses, as well as the rule of six, and who had consequently put themselves and potentially other members of the squad at risk. Southgate’s response, in part, reflected on the fact that when the original lockdown had been announced everybody seemed ready and willing to conform to the restrictions, but now he sensed this wasn’t so and that a lot of divisions were emerging. We need, he said, to unite in beating Covid-19 without allowing it to divide us.

Southgate is an articulate football manager. He strikes me as an inherently decent man. He talks good 14

Salvationist 31 October 2020

PA photo

sense, doesn’t seem to play that numbing old ‘we was robbed’ blame game and might have a very positive human impact on those who come under his charge. Oddly, I found myself thinking, ‘Southgate for prime minister’ – how refreshing that might be! Then, later that week, England lost at home to Denmark, so I started thinking, ‘Boris for England manager.’ It would certainly be an interesting job swap.

I think Southgate’s comments on the coronavirus restrictions hit the nail on the head. Unity is crucial when you are fighting a war, and this struggle with Covid-19 does feel like it’s moving from a battle to a war. Unity is important at any time when we desire to work together in a common cause. It’s important in our social and domestic lives as well as in Salvation Army work and at SATCoL (Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd). Without it, life is simply less enjoyable and we are less effective individually and as a team. It’s worth working hard on recognising and cherishing the things that unite us, rather than those that divide us.

Other than the Psalms it’s unusual for me to look to the Old Testament for

inspiration from Scripture. But there’s a wonderful passage in Ecclesiastes 3: ‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens’ (v1). It’s too long to quote in full, but the passage suggests that there is ‘a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance’ (v4), ‘a time to be silent and a time to speak’ (v7), ‘a time to keep and a time to throw away’ (v6) – a good one for our charity shops! – and, very of the moment, ‘a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing’ (v5).

This is a time to unite, work together, support each other and do our moral and public duty by observing what we might otherwise see as restrictive rules.

Only through our united approach will Covid-19 be beaten – or at least suppressed – and only then will we start to experience a more acceptable new normal.

TREVOR IS SATCOL MANAGING DIRECTOR AND A SOLDIER AT KETTERING CITADEL

TRICKY (O OR TREAT) ISS SUES FROM THE

ARCHIVE

by Captain Callum McKenna by Lieutenant Callum McKenna

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Y wife Berri and I were little over three months into our first appointment in Hythe when we found ourselves barricaded into the back bedroom of our house with all the curtains drawn tightly and the lights switched off, plunging the house into darkness. We even moved our car off the driveway and further farther down the street, all in a desperate attempt to create the impression to passers-by that we were not at home.

The date was 31 October – Hallowe’en. In the build-up to the day Halloween. we’d been asked by anxious parents in our flock for our wise counsel on how they should, or shouldn’t, allow their children to engage with the somewhat Americanised celebration of all things spooky. Some of them felt guilty for allowing their children to join their school friends in dressing up to embark on trick or treating expeditions, while others were defiant in their non-observance.

In the middle of it all Berri and I were hiding – retreating away from the whole thing, wishing that they’d have taught us at training college what to say about Hallowe’en.

Halloween.

While there were no classes on prepping your congregation for Halloween, Hallowe’en, we were given some of the tools that would help us to empower others to make decisions about these tricky situations. Richard Niebuhr’s Christ And Culture is one of the most significant theological works of the 20th century and, while not without its shortcomings, provides a helpful framework for us to consider how we might engage with whatever cultural difficulties come our way. Niebuhr’s

work outlines several ‘postures’ that the Church might take towards any aspect of culture. How might our Hallowe’en Halloween conundrum have been viewed using a broad, and somewhat simplified, approach to Niebuhr’s framework?

CHRIST AGAINST CULTURE Applied to Halloween, Hallowe’en, Halloween, this stance could recognise the dangers and distinctly Halloween, unchristian elements of Hallowe’en, unC citing it as an event that is hostile towards Christian belief and practice. In response to this we could have actively picketed Halloween Hallowe’en Halloween parties, or at the very least insisted on withdrawal and complete non-observance in order to shield ourselves and others from the dangers of this worldly influence.

CHRIST IN CULTURE You’ve probably heard the call to be in the world, but not of the world, and that is where adopting this stance would leave us. It would have left us aware of some of the difficulties Hallowe’en Halloween presents but also aware of the power of God to transform the culture around us.

We could have held a ‘light party’ or given copies of Kids Alive! to the trick or treaters at our doors. These actions would have acknowledged that Hallowe’en wouldn’t just go away but Halloween does have the potential to be influenced by the values of the Kingdom.

CHRIST OF CULTURE If, up until this point, you’ve asked, ‘What’s the issue here anyway?’ the chances are that if you were in our shoes on that October evening you would have been out trick or treating yourself, possibly because of a ‘Christ of culture’ stance; a belief that Christian

values and the culture they find themselves in are compatible and indeed cultural expressions needn’t be criticised but celebrated.

WHAT CAN WE DO? It is my belief that we do well to heed the advice of Paul when he says: ‘Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking’ (Romans 12:2 The Message).

This isn’t really an article just about Halloween; Hallowe’en; day in, day out each one of us has to make a range of decisions about the way in which we live out our biblical values in a ‘world of shifting values’. We can’t withdraw from the world around us. Similarly, we shouldn’t just ‘go with the flow’ without reflecting on and discerning what the Scriptures might speak into our culture.

In the Godhead, we have encountered the culture of a Kingdom that is truly transformative. The same God sends us into the culture we find ourselves in as Kingdom citizens for transformation.

The journey may be tricky – but what a treat for the world!

CAPTAIN MCKENNA IS CORPS OFFICER, HYTHE O This article was first published in the 24 October 2015 Salvationist

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BIBLE STUDY

Lord, be my help Major Kathleen Versfeld reminds us that we are not alone

ARLIER in the year when it was reported that half the world’s population was in lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, can there ever have been more people across the globe united in a plea for help and healing?

ones and livelihoods around the world, what hope, what wisdom, does King David’s psalm offer us?

As we seek enlightenment, let’s begin with a prayer to God, the source of all wisdom: Spirit of Truth, shine a light into our hearts and speak clearly to us. In your mercy, reveal more of yourself to us, we pray.

QUESTIONS O What were the prayers on your heart when the battle against Covid-19 was at its peak?

O Who or what were you most anxious about?

QUESTIONS O Read Psalm 30 aloud at least a couple of times. Was there a word or phrase that stood out, or an image that came into your head?

O What might God be saying to you?

Psalm 30 begins and ends in praise.

It is written with the hindsight of a happy ending: the psalmist has been healed of a deadly illness. Living as we are in the shadow of an undefeated pestilence, one that continues to threaten loved

‘Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; praise his holy name,’ the psalmist exhorts. ‘For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favour lasts a lifetime’ (vv4 and 5). The verses that follow hint at a cause-and-effect

PSALM 30

E

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

by Major Lynda Levis

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Salvationist 31 October 2020

relationship between God’s anger and David’s arrogance in declaring: ‘I shall never be shaken’ (v6). A lack of humility has led to God removing his favour and hiding his face.

QUESTIONS O Some have suggested that the pandemic is God’s judgment on a sinful, wayward world. What do you think?

O How does this tally with the God of mercy and faithfulness that we know and whom David exalts?

On Vision and Commitment Sunday 2020, Salvationists across the territory invited God to reveal more of himself to us and to do immeasurably more in and through us. No one could have imagined that the fulfilment of this prayer might involve less of all the things we love and more of the stuff we don’t: less worshipping and witnessing

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Lord of mercy, you have heard my cry;/ Through the storm you’re the beacon, my song in the night./ In the shelter of your wings, hear my heart’s reply,/ Singing, ‘What a faithful God have I’.

(SASB 378)

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

(Psalm 34:4)

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

(SASB 26)

in our halls and streets and more weeping and waiting for the Lord to speak; less singing and more silence; less rushing around and more rest.

Undeniably, we’ve been prompted to pray more, but what about praise?

David asserts that ‘weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning’ (v5).

QUESTION O Read verse 11. When has God turned your wailing into dancing and replaced your sackcloth with joy?

Perhaps it’s too early, the road ahead too uncertain or the pain of recent loss too raw. When David is ‘dismayed’ (v7) and his death seems imminent, he cuts to the chase and cries out to God with this simple prayer: ‘Lord, be my help’ (v10). David doesn’t ask for a particular remedy or

cure or sign. He puts all his hope and trust in a person – the Lord God. In the midst of all the uncertainty of the pandemic, I am encouraged by the suggestion that it was the healer, rather than simply the experience of being healed, that put the song in David’s heart and words of praise on his lips.

At Easter, as the world held its breath and the UK death toll reached its peak, amid the silence of our city centres and neighbourhoods, nature burst into sight and song all around us – a symphony of praise. It caused our hearts to sing.

In the dark days of winter, while we wait for a cure and plan a new normal for Advent and Christmas, can we raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving?

We are not alone. God is here – our hope, our help and our healer.

In the solitude and safety of our own homes, let his faithful people sing these words from ‘I Am Not Alone’ by Kari

Jobe: ‘When I walk through deep waters/ I know that you will be with me,/ When I’m standing in the fire/ I will not be overcome;/ Through the valley of the shadow/ I will not fear./ I am not alone,/ I am not alone,/ You will go before me,/ You will never leave me./ In the midst of deep sorrow/ I see your light is breaking through,/ The dark of night will not overtake me./ I am pressing into you,/ Lord, you fight my every battle;/ And I will not fear./ I am not alone,/ I am not alone,/ You will go before me,/ You will never leave me.’

MAJOR VERSFELD IS MISSION DIRECTOR, STRAWBERRY FIELD, LIVERPOOL

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

(Lamentations 3:22 and 23)

Love lifted me, love lifted me,/ When no one but Christ could help,/ Love lifted me.

(SASB 853)

Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.

(Isaiah 12:4)

Jesus turned our sorrow into dancing,/ Jesus turned our sorrow into dancing,/ Changed our tears of sadness into rivers of joy,/ Jesus turned our sorrow into a dance.

(SASB 875)

Prayer Lord, we thank you and praise you for your constant, unchanging presence and love.

Thank you that when we call out to you – whether in joy or distress – you hear us and are ready to reach out to us.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

HASTINGS CITADEL Evie and Keith Knight were welcomed as adherent members on the weekend of their 50th wedding anniversary celebration. Also pictured are corps officer Lieutenant Debbie-Anne Hogarth, Major Percy Hatcher and Recruiting Sergeant Gillian Padgham. – DH

CARSHALTON Laud Gyasi was welcomed as an adherent member.

He preached from Joshua 24:15: ‘As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord’. – TS

NORWICH MILE CROSS Stephanie Leeds was welcomed as an adherent member on the first Sunday back for socially distanced worship. Stephanie declared her belief in Jesus, that the Army was her spiritual home and that she desired to serve him through the corps community work. Prior to lockdown, she helped at the Care and Share shop and luncheon club. During lockdown, she has been active in getting the hall and shop ready for reopening. – PR BURGESS HILL Corps officer Major Angela White welcomed Pat Liddell as an adherent member. Pat has regularly attended Sunday meetings and the Young at Heart midweek group for two years. – DH

GAINSBOROUGH Amelia Bott was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Wendy Brown, who presented Amelia with her certificate during Sunday morning worship on Facebook. Amelia was keen that this should take place before she began her teaching training at Bishop Grosseteste University. She testified that 1 Corinthians 16:14 was central to her commitment: ‘Let all that you do be done in love’ (English Standard Version). Amelia has been active throughout the lockdown, working regularly with the corps food bank team. – PH 18

Salvationist 31 October 2020

PREVIEWS

Books for Advent and beyond Salvationist highlights three books to take you through the coming months. They are available from brf.org.uk or as ebooks from amazon.co.uk.

At Home In Advent by Gordon Giles AS we come to the end of this strangest of years, Gordon Giles leads us on a surprisingly fitting Advent journey.

He writes: ‘We enter Advent and look forward to Christmas, which will also have a special meaning this year after the social isolations of Lent and Easter, a strange summer and ongoing trepidation about what the future holds for our health and our wealth. These are, ironically perhaps, Advent themes: hope, expectation, trepidation.’

Following the success of his 2019 book, At Home In Lent, the author again draws on domestic items and seasonal symbols to explore the deep and often solemn themes of Advent.

Thought-provoking, original and quirky in the best sense of the word, At Home In Advent argues the

The Celtic Year by David Cole THIS latest title from award-winning writer David Cole completes a set of four Celtic spirituality devotionals to take you through the entire year in the company of the ancient Celtic Christians.

The Celtic Year focuses on the eight points of the ever-turning year: the four season changes and the four midpoints of each season.

Cole says: ‘Much of our modern western world has become completely detached from the turnings of the Earth, from the cycles of the seasons to the astronomical as well as

Seven Sacred Spaces by George Lings GEORGE Lings’ new book brings to life the seven sacred spaces of traditional monastic communities and demonstrates their profound relevance for contemporary Christians.

Extensive personal experience, research and reflection have convinced him that the cell, chapel, chapter, cloister, garden, refectory and scriptorium all have a distinctive and important contribution to make in the creation of vibrant Christian discipleship and community.

He writes: ‘For me, there need be no gap between belonging to Jesus’ Church and having a shared Christian life worth living. I admit immediately that for many people there is a chasm between these two. My discovery has been to see that the seven sacred spaces approach is one way in which that disturbing gap can close.’

importance of dwelling in the dark challenges of Advent without rushing on to the Christmas festivities: ‘The clue is in the name: Christmas – the mass of Christ; the meal of Christ. In Advent we prepare ourselves to eat that meal, and in anticipating it we stir up not only our cake mixture but also our hearts and minds, so that when we arrive at Christmas we will have truly prepared ourselves to take our seat at his table.’

With daily readings, running from 1 December to 6 January, and two sets of questions for reflection at the end, this book will help readers to process the challenges and uncertainties of 2020.

O At Home In Advent is priced £8.99 (plus postage and packing)

Earth-based phenomena of time.’ His hope is that, through its liturgies, reflections and prayers, The Celtic Year will reconnect the reader with these cycles.

Professor Ian Bradley comments: ‘Following the Celtic year and reconnecting with the cycles of the Earth’s turning in relation to the sun, moon and seasons, David Cole provides a rich diet of daily biblical devotions which will sustain, challenge and comfort all who follow them.’

O The Celtic Year is priced £8.99 (plus postage and packing)

For Lings, thinking in terms of the seven sacred spaces offers a useful tool: ‘It can act in a diagnostic way to spot the strengths and weaknesses in our private lives, our homes, our churches and our communities. As we see more clearly by what means communities work well, we have a better chance to live richer lives and to create sustainable, healthy churches.’

Bishop of Liverpool the Right Rev Paul Bayes says: ‘George Lings is a radical, one who believes that we should explore the deep roots of faith if we are to live well. Seven Sacred Spaces distils the wisdom of decades of looking, listening and reflecting. Read it if you want to be a deep-rooted Christian today. I recommend it very, very highly.’

Sacred Spaces is priced £10.99 (plus postage and packing)

O Seven

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Lieut-Colonels Joan and Raymond Kirby (12 November) Golden O Majors Christine and Robert Campbell (14 November) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Mrs Colonel Sheila Griffiths (85 on 6 November) O Lieut-Colonel Joy Taylor (85 on 6 November) O Mrs Aux-Captain Jessie McHutchon (90 on 9 November) O Major Kenneth Lawson (95 on 14 November) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Joyce Francis, Dudley O Elsie Price, Dudley O Florence Atkins, Dudley O Stan Shepherd, Sale O Major Joan Lyons from St Martins care home, Camborne, on 5 October O Joy Hixon, Basingstoke, on 10 October O Major Lilian Bowes from Chaucer House care home, Canterbury, on 15 October O Captain Joan Le Marchant-Davison from Lincoln County Hospital on 15 October O Songster Mark Millest, Gillingham, on 19 October O Major John Joy from Colchester Hospital on 20 October O Major John Pocock from Copperfield care home, Leeds, on 21 October O Vernon Roberts, Weymouth BEREAVED O Bandsman Raymond Atkins, Dudley, of his wife, Florence, Major Lynne Collins, Hazel Hargreaves and Joanne Atkins of their mother O Songster Anne Wills and Paul Shepherd, both Sale, of their father Stan Shepherd O Lieut-Colonel Jenine Main and Ian Hixon, Basingstoke, of their mother Joy Hixon O Mollie Millest, Gillingham, of her son Songster Mark Millest, Alison Millest of her father, BM Christopher Millest, Bath Temple, and SL Andrew Millest, Gillingham, of their brother O Major Beverley Joy of her husband, Major John Joy 22

Salvationist 31 October 2020

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Songster Stephanie Gauntlett, Sale, of her father Vernon Roberts

TRIBUTES JEAN KING, CROYDON CITADEL JEAN was born in 1932 to Salvationist parents.

From a young age she attended West Croydon Corps where she was the Sunbeam leader. In 1957 she married Reg, and they soldiered at South Croydon. Jean was active in the corps, serving as recruiting sergeant and then YP treasurer.

Many officers mentioned Jean’s gift of hospitality when they billeted as cadets with her and Reg. Her home was always open to everyone. Young people at the corps and in the community knew that they could visit at any time and many were helped and encouraged through her.

When South Croydon closed in the 1990s, Jean and Reg transferred to Croydon Citadel. She attended until ill health and mobility prevented her from doing so. Jean’s daughters thank God for a mum who cared for others and for them.

Well done, good and faithful servant! – SK LIEUT-COLONEL ERNEST COUPE ERNEST entered the training college as a member of the Greathearts session, and was in the process of organising a sessional reunion before his unexpected promotion to Glory. Such reunions epitomised Ernest’s lifelong commitment to the spiritual well-being of those with whom he came into contact.

His service as an officer included corps appointments, as well as time spent at THQ and IHQ in financial and administrative roles. These were always pursued with care and diligence, as were Ernest’s years serving at the Army’s Campfield Press, where his pastoral interest in colleagues and employees left a deep impression of an officer whose priority was people.

Overseas ministry in Pakistan was not without its challenges and struggles, but Ernest retained a strong faith in God throughout, taking such matters to the Lord in prayer.

Sharing officership with his beloved wife, Margaret, Ernest’s gentle influence

continued into retirement. He devoted himself to the role of prayer co-ordinator at St Albans Corps, as well as a number of behind-the-scenes acts of kindness, all carried out with humility and humour. He was a popular War Cry seller and played an active part in the midweek fellowship group.

His stall at the Christmas Fayre will long be remembered. He is greatly missed by his children, his family, and by all who had the privilege of knowing him. – SP COLONEL JEAN GAUNTLETT JEAN was born in 1930 to Eva and Albert Fardon and dedicated to God at Luton Temple.

During her childhood her sensitive nature took her to the mercy seat on numerous occasions. She sang her first solo aged five and blessed many congregations with her beautiful contralto singing and rich speaking voice. Following school Jean became a senior pharmacist at a large general hospital before deciding to enter officer training.

She became cadet sergeant-major at the training college, and soon found herself en route to Chikankata Hospital, Zambia, where she served for 20 years. During this time she also trained and took responsibility for the laboratory, haematology and physiotherapy services. Her life was spent in the hospital, the compound for leprosy patients and the village corps, where she led meetings.

Her mother, who was a local officer, was a spiritual and emotional strength for her through letters and prayer. Contrary to her own preference to remain in Zambia, Jean was subsequently appointed to IHQ as assistant to the under secretary for the Far East Section.

She later married Sidney, who had become a widower, and they shared 34 happy years together. Jean, who had been ‘auntie’ to Heather and Ian on the Chikankata compound, became ‘wonderful Granny Jean’ to Ian’s family, William, Alice, Henry, Edward and George, all of whom she loved dearly.

Jean worked for social services for a few years and subsequently trained in counselling. She was also a valued lecturer at the International College for Officers and the Brengle Institute for many years.

In retirement she read widely, prayed much and listened to people’s cares and concerns on the telephone. Lois Marriott of Upper Norwood, her lifelong friend, joins the Gauntlett family in gratitude for her beautiful life. She fragranced the lives of countless people and lived in the love of God. – AM

Addresses removed

Christmas Ch Chr C hr h ri r is i st tm ma m as mailing Africa

Europe

GHANA Lieut-Colonels Nigel and Judith Schultz

EASTERN EUROPE TERRITORY Lieut-Colonels Richard and Ann Borrett

KENYA EAST Lieut-Colonels Ann and Kenneth Hawkins

FRANCE AND BELGIUM Majors Mike and Ruth Stannett

South Asia BANGLADESH Captains Heidie and Richard Bradbury

Majors Geoff and Liz Chape

NIGERIA Majors David and Janet Howarth

SRI LANKA Major Tracey Palmer SWEDEN AND LATVIA Captain Mark Cotterill

SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND HUNGARY Captain Rebecca Zünd

Americas and Caribbean BRAZIL Major Philippa Chagas

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Salvationist 31 October 2020

OFFICERS IN THE UK AT CHRISTMAS Lieut-Colonels Nigel and Judith Schultz Lieut-Colonels Ann and Kenneth Hawkins Captains Richard and Heidie Bradbury Majors Geoff and Liz Chape Major Tracey Palmer Majors David and Diane Kinsey

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list South Pacific and East Asia AUSTRALIA Majors Kevin and Pam Pitt

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Captain Janine Skinner

INDONESIA Lieut-Colonels Cedric and Lyn Hills

Envoys Jane and Kevin Sandford

SINGAPORE, MALAYSIA ALAYSIA AND ND MYANMAR Joon Moi and Nigel Jones

TAIWAN Majors David and Diane Kinsey

Salvationist 31 October 2020

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Salvationist

31 October 2020

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‘‘ All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army.

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

MAJOR DEBBIE NIELD Bury St Edmunds with Lavenham How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I was staying in Clevedon with my parents and we attended the Easter Sunday meeting.

What made you want to become an officer?

While I was watching a tape of centenary celebrations, God said: ‘I don’t want you sitting in the congregation, I want you to be on the platform leading my people.’

What is the most interesting thing about your role?

Sharing the amazing word of God with his people. ... and the most frustrating?

All the administration and paperwork that cuts into the time I want to be out with our flock.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

People’s attitudes and negative talk.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

Coach touring holidays – particularly the Canadian Rockies – with my husband, Philip.

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

Little Women, and I would be Jo March.

She has such love and fight and belief in her family.

What do you do in your spare time?

Sharing with my family, lots of craftwork like knitting, cross stitch, tapestry and making American sampler quilts. I also enjoy reading, walking and writing poetry and children’s stories.

Here is love vast as the ocean, Loving kindness as the flood, When the Prince of life, our ransom, Shed for us his precious blood.

(SASB B 169)

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

Florence Nightingale. I would love to talk about all the difficulties she had along with the rewards that she gained while establishing a good nursing team.

I was a nurse and still understand the necessity of having like-minded people around you, enabling good teamwork and effective results.

What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics?

I quite like the idea of competing in the archery.

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

Easy – wool for knitting. I am an avid knitter, as Philip would verify.

What is your favourite meal?

A roast gammon dinner.

If you could bring back any fashion trend what would it be?

1930s and 1940s fashions. So cool.

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

Bright Eyes by Art Garfunkel.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint’ (Isaiah 40:31). It’s a reminder that God is always there. With him supporting me I do not need to worry; I should rely on him.

’’’

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

Ruth. I would ask if she ever had doubts about her decision to give up all she knew and go with her motherin-law, Naomi, into a strange land.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘Here Is Love’ by William Rees (SASB 169). It’s a beautiful song, reminding us so clearly of why Jesus died on Calvary, a song that really captures grace and that moment in time.

Is there something about life or the world you’ve never understood?

People’s greed, selfishness and hate towards each other and the seemingly uncaring attitude to a person’s fellow man.

If you could invent a gadget, what would it be?

An umbrella that could attach to a pram or pushchair, keeping the person pushing completely dry.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I make a mean cheese soufflé.

Apart from the Bible, which book would you want on a desert island?

Testament Of Youth by Vera Brittain.

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

Rely always upon God. He will never let you down.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My faith.

Something interesting people might not know about you is…

When I was six years old I came third in a Butlins fancy dress competition dressed as a large cereal packet.