Issuu

The youth of today

DEPENDING on your age, this phrase may well hold differing inference. For some, it will be a positive reference to the energetic and adaptable characteristics of young people. For others, it may hold a more disenchanted or derogatory tone. I find myself humming a catchy little number – ‘Youth of Today’ – by the 1980s reggae band Musical Youth. Look it up –but I warn you, it is an earworm! Whatever your point of view, young people have a critical role to play in shaping both our present and our future. Their voices are pivotal in navigating the challenge of harnessing our learnt history with the as-yet-undiscovered possibilities for the future.

Throughout the centuries, being an effective disciple of Jesus has always been dependent on being relevant to those around us. The history of our Movement has been shaped by seeking bold new ways to proclaim and live out the gospel. In this issue we reflect on some of the gatherings that have been places of inspiration and encouragement for our young people over recent months and hear how it has impacted their discipleship today and challenged them to do more.

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor

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EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope

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Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips

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Issue No 2030 @SalvationistUKI

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the 2011 New International Version (Anglicised), unless otherwise stated

INTERNATIONAL LEADERS

General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

TERRITORIAL LEADERS

Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

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The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.

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ARTISTS’ CORNER

GUIDES ME THROUGH MUSIC’

SUMMER SCHOOL ROUND-UP

FOUNDERS Catherine and William Booth

Let your light shine!

At the start of a new academic year, Noelah Karigambe encourages us to be confident in who we are

STARTING a new school can be extremely scary. What if I don’t have the fanciest bag or shoes like the other boys and girls? What if I don’t make any friends? What if I struggle with the subjects? What if I don’t do well?

There are lots of what-ifs, what-ifs, what-ifs. We have to remember to go in with a calm and open mindset and relax in the fact that God has got us.

Being a Christian and starting university quite far from home has been a really big journey for me recently, going into the unknown and having to let God take the reins. As Christians, we all have to put our trust in God; he knows our future, he knows our plans. We are children of God, and with that comes clarity that God has always got us and has a plan in mind, whether that plan is something completely different from what we intended for ourselves.

As you start this new academic year, be who you are: be confident, brave and full of love. Through that, not only will the Holy Spirit shine in us unknowingly, but he will also shine through your energy and attract people towards you.

Matthew 5:16: ‘Let your light shine before

others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven’ (English Standard Version). Always work hard and try your best, because not only will that give selfgratitude at the end of the journey but also self-fulfilment, as trying our best is all that is required of us.

Take time to find your style of learning; take time to find your style of obtaining information. Go over your lessons at home, even if it’s just for 5 to 10 minutes – spending a little time compared to no time is better than nothing! Hard work is exactly what it is … hard. But commitment and determination will provide truthful results in what you do.

Most of all, spend as much time as you can focusing on the word of God and thanking him for the opportunity to even have an education and that you are given an opportunity to learn –sadly, not many children have this. Grasp that opportunity while you can. Enjoy meeting new people. Enjoy learning about the different things you do in history and English and maths.

It’s OK to struggle and not get everything perfectly right. As long as you

Reflect and respond

Take time to thank God this week for the strength and opportunities he gives you, and for the knowledge that he’s got you even in new and difficult situations.

Read Matthew 5:16. How can you let your confidence in God shine this week in how you think, talk and act?

Pray for the Holy Spirit’s help in showing God’s love to others and towards yourself when you don’t get things right.

try your hardest and are as committed as possible to your studies, the people around you and, most importantly, God, there is nothing you cannot achieve.

NOELAH KARIGAMBE Wrexham

Megane Moki Birmingham Citadel

‘Nzambe’ by Ollie P Music and Megane Moki

This was written by myself. It talks about me struggling a lot and having God as my cornerstone. So there’s a lot of Psalm 91 references in the song. I’m Congolese, so that’s why it’s in Lingala.

‘Rescuer (Good News)’ by Rend Collective

It’s a tune. I’m always blasting it in the car with my mum. Neither of us know the lyrics, but the song itself is a blessing.

‘Praise You’ by Ollie P Music and Megane Moki

I was 18 or 19 when I wrote the song. Ollie sent me the guitar track and he was like, ‘Hey, do you wanna sing over this?’ I’d written the lyrics in, like, five minutes. I prayed and then the Holy Spirit was like, ‘OK, go.’ For me, even in times when I’m feeling not my best, I’m still going to praise God.

‘Still Rolling Stones’ by Lauren Daigle I really like the lyrics – Satan has not won, you know – but also the music. The instrumental is powerful.

‘The Glorious Impossible’ by Gaither Vocal Band

When FourHymn first came to Birmingham Citadel, this was one of the songs I liked the most. I went and stalked them and the song on YouTube afterwards. It reminds me of how maybe you feel like you’re in an impossible situation, but God will get you out of it, usually in a glorious way.

• Based on an episode of Salvationist Radio’s Me and My Playlist. The podcast features young people from across the territory as they share five tracks they love. Listen to more episodes at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts

‘God guides me through music’

Speaking at Territorial Music School, Rosie (Bristol Citadel) shares how the Holy Spirit is moving in her life

MY mum grew up in The Salvation Army because her parents were officers, so she brought me up in the Church as well. My grandparents are French, and they served all around France. I have always classed myself as a Christian, but I really felt it a couple of years ago.

I’ve struggled a lot with faith before, but things have been getting better. Last year I went to a summer school and for the first time I felt the Holy Spirit, and it was amazing! It was so unexpected! It was the best time ever.

Previously, I’d always hear people say ‘this is when I first felt the Holy Spirit’, and I would get upset, thinking: ‘Why am I not feeling this? Does God not love me?’ One worship night, the music got to me, and it was amazing. Since then, my faith has been improving.

This is my first year at Territorial Music School (TMS) and I feel God’s presence here. It’s good to be surrounded by people who are like-minded.

At TMS, everyone gets along. I think it’s great. We have people whose first language isn’t English. We have people from Spain and France, as well as the USA. We have free time, which allows us to get to know each other. I’ve got to know people who I would never usually speak to. I’ve spoken to them about my life and how our lives are different from each other.

Today, God really guides me through music. I play the trombone and I do vocals. At my corps, we have a youth worship band and, when we sing and play instruments, I feel very guided by him. I want to pass that on to others. At school, when it came to my GCSE exams, I prayed beforehand, which gave me a layer of support.

Certainly, with all of the exams, it was difficult. However, in my head I knew that after the exams I would be going to TMS and then to the European Youth Event in the Netherlands! Knowing that I had all this great God stuff to look forward to was my motivation.

God knows where I will go next with my music. When I am older, I would love to be in the worship band, as I love to sing. If the International Staff Band ever asked me to play with them, I would definitely do it! Whatever God has planned for me, I won’t say no as it will be a calling from him.

Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

RECLAIMED LEATHER BOOKMARKS

by Major Jacques Rouffet

What do your bookmarks depict?

They are long, strips of leather and each have a different type of flower painted on them.

How were they made?

I feel I should add a disclaimer! I do not claim to be an artist but am aware that God has placed in me a desire to create, restore and beautify that which has been overlooked, cast away or neglected.

A friend found a dusty, rolled-up piece of leather at the back of his shed and gave it to me to ‘do something with’. After cleaning the surface and cutting it into manageable strips the size of bookmarks, I looked for inspiration. I found it in a book about flowers I bought earlier that week secondhand from the SATCoL Filton Donation Centre. This was exactly what I needed so I began to sketch a variety of flowers on to the smooth surface using pencil. I then added colour using acrylic paint and pens.

How did God speak to you while creating them?

While crafting the bookmarks, I felt God prompting me to use them to encourage and enable folk to deepen or renew their connection with God, and to reconnect with others. On the back of each bookmark, I wrote words inspired by Proverbs 17:17: ‘A friend loves at all times and in adversity shows himself to be a brother.’

That Sunday I took the bookmarks to Bridgwater Corps and shared my story at the commencement of the morning prayer meeting. The corps leader suggested placing the remaining bookmarks on the mercy seat. At the conclusion of the holiness meeting people were invited to go forward and receive one in an act of worship and commitment.

From that forgotten, dusty roll of leather came more than 80 bookmarks, which were given out in the prayer meeting or received at the mercy seat. Some were translated into Portuguese to acknowledge and encourage the Brazilian Christians who use our building. I would not claim to be an artist, but rather that I have a deep connection with the Divine Creator.

Have you made a piece of art, a drawing, a collage or something else inspired by your faith?

We’d love to share it in our Artists’ Corner! Get in touch with our team at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk.

Holy appetite

Major Paul Hilditch thinks about fasting

MATTHEW 6:16–18

IN previous generations, it was not uncommon to ask if you were ‘keeping well saved’. This question may not often be heard today. However, much of our attention needs to address this topic. It is a question that not only assumes that you are saved, but also enquires how God is working in your life and how you are cooperating with his grace. Spiritual disciplines, then, are what we do to ensure that our relationship with God, in Christ, is healthy.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What do you do to ensure that you are responsive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit?

The Soldier’s Covenant states that, in order to be ‘responsive to the Holy Spirit’s work and obedient to his leading in my life’, and in order to grow in grace, one will worship, pray, serve and read the Bible. These are the concepts that I grew up with. When I mention them today, I usually add that I am much happier reading the Bible than exercising the others. They are all important, but we probably each have preferences.

In the case of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus assumes that his followers are doing something else – fasting. Jesus does not command them to fast but assumes they already practise it.

As first-century Jews, the followers of Jesus were already committed to the spiritual disciplines of their day. The Temple was a central place of worship, the study of the Torah led to living a life seen to honour God, and the festivals marked out the year.

One major fast was Yom Kippur –the Day of Atonement (see Leviticus 23:26–32). God calls the people to rest from their work and deny themselves. The concept of self-denial was and is considered primarily one of fasting from food and drink. This kind of fasting may be useful for you. Of course, take care to consider any medical or practical concerns around this. One tip would be to go with a biblical day – from sunset to sunset – which allows a normal evening meal before starting the fast and another the following day after sunset. Jesus assumes that this kind of fasting is the practice of his disciples.

Jesus’ requirement is to ensure that fasting happens without making a public show of one’s suffering. By continuing with personal care –including using hair products (see v17) – we do not attract attention to ourselves. The reward given for fasting is then something that comes from God to the believer. We will be spiritually nourished. Perhaps this is due to the self-discipline involved, or because we have some extra time to commit to prayer, Bible reading, worship or service. The alternative would be to seek the praise of other humans as we make it very clear that we are suffering. This produces human reaction, rather than the blessings that come from a life lived for God.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How might fasting benefit you?

Who might you encourage to practise fasting?

The Didache, also known as The Lord’s Teaching Through the Twelve Apostles to the Nations, is an early Christian document that helps us understand the practices of the early Church. It also assumes fasting and gives some extra detail beyond what appears in the Gospels.

It states that Christians should fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. Some people think this may be a commemoration of the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus.

Fasting needs to be a limited thing that we carry out. As Salvationists we will be familiar with the stories in our own heritage around the origins of the Self-Denial Appeal. John Carleton fasted by going without a pudding for a year and contributed 50 shillings to The Salvation Army. This exercise inspired the annual Self-Denial Week which, although focused on fundraising for the international work of The Salvation Army, was certainly rooted in a time of fasting.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Are there times in your life that you could observe or commemorate by fasting?

A word of warning – Isaiah asks about what kind of fasting is particularly pleasing to God (see Isaiah 58:5–8). Instead of abstaining from some activity, this is a clear call to be active.

It is a call to be involved and engaged with societal ills and to bring about change, bringing light where there is darkness.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Read Isaiah 58:5–8 and consider what this may mean for you.

Christians today, perhaps especially in the developed world, are more accustomed to feasting. This is also a biblical concept, although not mentioned here by Jesus. Perhaps there are times for public feasting, which need to be matched or even anticipated by private fasting. Maybe our customs of celebratory meals at Christmas, Easter, birthdays and weddings need to be matched with spending disciplined time in fasting before God in commemoration or in crying out to him for justice. Then, taking Isaiah’s ideas, we roll up our sleeves and make a difference. It may not happen often but, if someone were to ask you about your spiritual health, how would you respond? What story would you tell? Abstaining from food and/or drink. Abstaining from something else for a period. Doing it to fundraise. Doing it to commemorate. Working for social justice. These may all be a part of your story. Make sure you tell your story to bring glory to God and not to mourn the rigour of the challenges involved. There is then a vital promise: ‘Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you’ (v18).

A shortened version of Prayer Matters will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist in 2025. To read the full, unedited booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship

SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER: CARE FOR CREATION – PROTECTION FOR OCEANS ‘May your Holy Spirit help us to live lives that honour you and emulate your care for the oceans. May your Holy Spirit act through our politicians so they can work to prevent plastic entering and harming the oceans. May your Holy Spirit work in your Church to equip us to be your hands and feet in facing this problem.’ prayer from arocha.org

SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER: SABBATH PRAYER – ENSLAVED

In the Genesis story, Joseph was taken captive by his brothers and sold into slavery. And yet Joseph came to a place where he was able to say: ‘Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good’ (Genesis 50:20 New Revised Standard Version), a testimony of God’s redeeming work. by Major Cheryl Davies (Anti Trafficking and Modern Slavery Department)

MONDAY 22 SEPTEMBER: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – THE BIG CONNECTION

Pray that more people will hear about the Big Connection and feel moved to get involved. Pray that the funds raised will meet and exceed the needs of the appeal, and that every pound given will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those it supports.

by Sassi Stuckey-Beeri (Fundraising Officer, THQ)

TUESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER: SERVING AND CARING – WELLBEING DEPARTMENT

Pray for the psychological assessment weekends attended by those pursuing a vocational calling within The Salvation Army. Pray that the applicants will feel nurtured and encouraged in their search to identify God’s calling for them. Pray for the assessors to be granted wisdom and discernment. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in any recommendations the assessing team may make.

by Rosemary Steadman-Allen (Wellbeing Department)

WEDNESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER: GROWING IN FAITH – CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SCOTLAND

Pray for the young people who participate in our divisional youth sections – brass band, youth chorus and worship band – and the great group of people who lead/ support them. Our prayer is that each young person will encounter Jesus and grow deeper in their discipleship.

by Major Janet Robson (Divisional Leader)

THURSDAY 25 SEPTEMBER: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – MALI AND BURKINA FASO REGION

Today we pray for one of The Salvation Army’s youngest regional areas. The work started in Mali in 2007 and in Burkina Faso in 2012. There are 23 congregations and 17 youth groups, as well as a host of social services. We pray for the regional leadership team of Lieut-Colonels Blaise and Evelyne Kombo and Captains André and Nana Togo, and for protection for every expression of Salvation Army life in the region. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)

FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – WELCOME TO THE CADETS

MAJOR PAUL HILDITCH Degree Course Leader

William Booth College

Lord Jesus, as we welcome a new session of cadets to William Booth College, we bring the 12 Proclaimers of Transformation and their families to you in prayer. Continue your work of transformation in them, that they may impact this world with courageous, creative and life-giving love. In their training, may the example of your disciples inspire them to connect with 21st-century cultures in ways that resonate with your truth – the truth that sets people free.

by Major Catherine Smith (Territorial Candidates Director)

PRAYER REQUESTS

Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.

Friends, fun and faith!

Salvationist shares memories from this year’s divisional schools and camps

Central and Southern Scotland

SUMMER school. A week I always look forward to, writes Breanna Hildrew (Glenrothes). Over seven days, I found myself catching up with friends, doing fun activities and, most importantly, getting quality time to reconnect with and grow closer to God.

I took vocal as my main option, and I do not regret it. The songs spoke to me and allowed me to use my gift of singing to glorify God. I even found myself to be a more confident sight-reader! The giggles the ladies brought along have given me unforgettable memories and dare I mention the board games elective with the silly talk and great laughs. Just the whole week in general brought me joy. The silent disco, the ceilidh... I could go on and on!

This was my third year at camp, and the theme really stood out to me: Step Up and Stand Out. After discussion in worship and cell groups, I became very encouraged. For me, stepping up involved a duet in Stirling Chorus and helping with the Transformers evening activity, the one-minute bottle flip challenge. I really enjoyed watching everyone connect in such a positive way.

I don’t think I can put into words how inspired this week has left me. Not long out of camp and I already miss it like crazy! I can’t wait to see what next year will bring.

Ireland

GANAWAY Activity Centre hosted this year’s summer school, writes Temra Neill (Belfast Temple), which was themed Transformed, with Romans 12:1 and 2 as our focus. Through worship, prayer and Bible study, students explored how the fruit of the Spirit can transform them from the inside out.

Students took part in activity streams choosing choir, band or art, each providing an opportunity to express their faith musically or creatively, displaying how we all can show the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives.

Camp activities included laser tag, an egg drop challenge – demonstrating how we can be protected by God’s love – and Taskmaster-style games, developing a healthy competitive spirit as well as strengthened friendships. The students put their faith into action by visiting The Salvation Army’s Sir Samuel Kelly care home, where they led a short worship time for residents, who were each gifted a handmade card with a Bible verse reminding them of God’s love.

It was a week of faith, friendship and fun living out what it means to be truly transformed by God’s Spirit. The final festival joined students with family and friends to celebrate the many different ways to showcase our talents to worship God.

London and South East

TOGETHER with 101 young people from across the two divisions, we explored what it means to be Refreshed, writes Divisional Youth Specialist Anita Gellatly (South East). We looked at how with God we can be reset, renewed, refreshed, restored and recharged and that, if we allow him into our lives, we can reflect him to others through who we are.

We looked at stories of Zacchaeus, Elijah, and Mary and Martha and at Romans 12:2, where we were challenged about not conforming to the world around us, but being transformed as we listen to God’s word speaking to us in new and refreshing ways.

In a powerful evening of prayer, we walked through Psalm 23 with stations of reflection. We stopped, and we had time to ‘be’ and to allow God to refresh our souls. Friendships and connections were made that will encourage us all in our daily faith journeys as we grow together. Decisions and commitments to follow Jesus were made as the Holy Spirit touched people’s lives. He refreshed our souls, ready to go back to our lives and make a difference, as we recall daily: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need’ (Psalm 23:1 New Living Translation). We pray that the week equipped and enabled us all to daily claim God’s refreshment in the ups and downs of life.

North East

I CAME to junior camp to make new friends and to do fun activities, writes Henry. My favourite activity was the Fire Fighter for a Day. At camp I learnt that the disciples had to wait for the Holy Spirit to come to them. I am going to tell people about all the fun activities that we did.

I loved last year’s camp, writes Ava, so I came again! On the way I was extremely excited to come for the second time. Also I made many lovely friends who I hung out with at free time and at activities. My favourite thing to do was swimming and Pizza Hut. I learnt in teaching how Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to give his disciples an ability to speak nearly every language, so they could spread the word about God. The staff are kind and really fun to be with, so don’t have any worries!

East of England

FIFTY-five young people gathered at Wymondham College for this year’s summer school, writes Bethany Grimshaw (Norwich Citadel). We explored the theme of being Known by God, discovering each day a different name for him: Yahweh, Jehovah, Raah, Shalom, Rapha, Jireh, Shammah and Nissi.

Alongside daily worship, creative and engaging activities included media, chorus, band, stepping out, dance, art, songwriting, discussion, sport, photography and worship band. There was something for everyone. Each evening, the fantastic staff team led fun-filled social events that brought the whole school together. From lively discos and a murder mystery to a film night – with more than a few spontaneous High School Musical singalongs! – quizzes, a talent show and team scavenger hunts – one of which literally led us to find Jesus – the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and laughter.

Harriet Carr (Stowmarket) shared: ‘Something I have taken away is that God is always here and he is here now. That can be easy to forget, so I think it’s important to be reminded.’

Micah Hall (Kettering Citadel) reflected: ‘I enjoyed every moment. It gave me the space to explore my passion, and I discovered how powerful media can be in sharing testimonies, promoting events and encouraging others in their faith.’

Imogen Beattie (Norwich Citadel) said: ‘I was in the worship band option for the first time and was singing. I was nervous, but excited. In the first session, I was quite quiet and didn’t feel very confident, but then I realised it isn’t a performance: it’s one of the ways I can worship God and lead others in worship too. The song “Who You Say I Am” reassures me that God specifically chose me and will always support me. When singing it, I felt my nerves go away and confidence grow and I knew that God was with me.’

‘IS there much “God stuff” at this camp?’ said a young lad connected through a local Salvation Army drop-in.

‘Well, not in the way you’d think of it...’ came the reply from one of our team members, writes Divisional Youth Specialist Nathan Bright. The divisional youth camp is a week of camping at Hadleigh Farm. The whole emphasis is allowing young people to feel welcome, invested in and known, so much of our programme simply involves spending time and having fun with each other. Young people are given the opportunity to be young people – a vast contrast from circumstances they might find themselves in at home, which force them to grow up quickly. During our time at camp we gathered around the theme of Under Construction, allowing us to understand that not everything in this world – including ourselves – is perfect, but can be taken on a journey of being wisely built up, so that God’s Kingdom can begin to be seen ‘brick by brick’ and ‘stone by stone’. As the week progressed we saw minds opened, life choices made and God – who was very much part of all the stuff! – glorified!

West Midlands

BE strong and courageous! Joshua 1:9 was the theme for West Midlands Summer School as young people and staff gathered at Denstone College for a week of fun and sharing together, writes Divisional Youth Officer Lieutenant Corinne Seabridge

The story of Joshua was explored through gathered worship and prayer, Bible study groups, and studies and activities. Young people could choose from drama, gospel choir, art, dance, media and brass for their main study, and then two options from sport, journalling, photography, team games, musical theatre, timbrels, worship band and crafts.

South West

AT junior camp, the children enjoyed the theme of Space Academy, writes Divisional Children’s Worker Adrian Kemp. They learnt many new things about God’s amazing universe, while exploring the incredible Bible stories of Daniel and his friends in exile in Babylon – which was so different to their own land and Jewish culture it was as if they were on a different planet!

A youth activity centre on Dartmoor was our new venue, where the children loved pushing themselves on the adventure activities, including high ropes, bushcraft and raft-building. Each day included whole-camp gatherings for worship, Bible teaching and hilarious games, while small groups allowed deeper exploration of the day’s Bible story.

Loads of fun was had with arts and crafts, outdoor games, campfire songs, an inflatable assault course and a silent disco, but there was also time for beautiful quieter moments: each night before bed we slowed down for creative prayers, and a Godly Play session allowed children to wonder about and respond to the Creation story.

These gave opportunities to discover more about the theme of Courage, and also to be inspired and develop skills. Activities included a Rave Jesus Night, a silent evening, a games night and the annual Big Water Event! The week concluded with two final celebrations, allowing students, family members and friends to worship together through music, drama, dance, media and timbrels. Artwork was displayed for all to see as they walked through the college to the theatre.

The celebrations concluded with the young people and staff joining together, singing praises to God and thanking him for all he had taught us during an amazing week.

At the end of the camp, children were invited to kneel and pray at the window, like Daniel did, and say yes to living their lives for Jesus.

North West and Isle of Man

YOUNG people from the division spent the week in Fleetwood considering the theme of Love, writes Divisional Youth Specialist Darren Highton

We started the week discovering that we were loved by God. Every day focused on a different aspect of Love, including the magnitude of God’s love, how we love God, how we love when it’s hard and loving in our communities. The final day included a challenge to go out and love!

Delegates and staff were all challenged to dig deeper and have open hearts to listen to what God is asking of them in a world where love is not the norm. Our week was full of challenge, fun and special moments of worship, with lives changed and transformed with a deeper understanding of God’s love and how we should love others.

At the end of the week, everyone shared with family and friends in a final worship celebration together, leaving with the words of Ephesians 5:2 to ‘let love be your guide’ (Contemporary English Version)

IN May, 48 children, 20 leaders and 3 young leaders gathered for our fourth year of Camp Nowesa for four days filled with adventure, friendship and faith, write Children’s Outreach Worker Amy Dickinson and Children’s Worker Amelia Burr

With the theme Explore!, campers set out to discover great explorers in the Bible, offering opportunities to learn about trusting God, following his call and sharing his love.

The days were packed with fun-filled activities, from outdoor games and crafts to team challenges and evening celebrations. As a team we aimed to help children see that faith is not just about knowing stories, but about stepping out in their own walk with Jesus. Time was spent reflecting on the sacrifice Jesus made and what that means for their lives, reminding them they can be strong and courageous with Jesus in their lives.

For many, the highlight was worshipping together –singing, dancing, crafting, discussing, praying and hearing God’s word in a way that made sense to them. Leaders and children alike left camp encouraged, challenged and full of joy, with each child being prayed over by their leaders. It’s always the highlight of our year.

One child summed it up: ‘I’ve learnt that God is with me wherever I go, and exploring with him is the best adventure ever!’ Amen to that.

Daring to look up

THE NETHERLANDS

HAVING been a part of The Salvation Army my whole life, flying abroad to attend an Army event was a completely new experience for me, writes Ewan Hall (Norwich Citadel). My flight took me to the Netherlands and, after a coach journey, I arrived at De Kroeze Danne camp for the European Youth Event (EYE) 2025.

Away from the noise of the outside world, the camp represented a miniature Europe, with approximately 700 Salvationists and friends from across the continent. Over just four days of worship, teaching and testimony, we would learn to Look Up, and discover how doing this influences our relationships with God.

In between main sessions, EYE offered space for creative and personal expression through sports, music, art and workshops. We learnt how The Salvation Army supports gender equality and people facing human trafficking. As well as shared meals and spaces to relax and talk, we connected with each other and God. The atmosphere was one of freedom, authenticity and joy.

From the very first main session, it was clear that, regardless of where we had come from or what language we spoke, people were there to express their love for God. The worship band and interpretive dancers united the room in powerful songs of proclamation.

Each morning began with Bible

UK and Ireland delegates

study led by Captain Callum McKenna (William Booth College). Through passages including Exodus 3:1–15 and Luke 10:25–37, small groups reflected on identity and the exhaustion of trying to be someone else. Yet God sees and loves our whole lives. The story of the good Samaritan introduced the Greek word splagchnizomai – a deep, stirring compassion that moves us to act, like the Samaritan helping the man on the road.

Evening sessions blended worship, music and teaching, each led by a different speaker: Territorial Commander Commissioner Bente Gundersen (The Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovakia Territory), Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team) and Lieutenant Lizzie Kitchenside (Harold Hill). Their messages, rooted in Scripture, reflected the theme of EYE – whether looking up from fear, from our lowest moments or towards the start of something new. All pointed to one truth: God is with us through it all. We just have to look up and see.

The final day stood out to me the most. Led by International Youth and Children’s Officer Captain Mariska Potters (IHQ), it offered a time of

reflection on the Journey of EYE – not just a mountaintop experience, but preparation for real life, with all its joys and struggles. What impacted me was the response that followed. During a call to testimony, many shared their splagchnizomai moments. Reflecting on my own experience, I remembered a conversation I had with someone about attending a corps and found myself ad-libbing Matthew 18:20: ‘For where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am with them.’ I wasn’t sure why I said that or if I’d used it correctly but, as I heard others sharing, it clicked.

As EYE 2025 came to a close, the message was clear: God is working across Europe and young people are responding. What some have called a ‘quiet revival’ is anything but quiet – it is bold, passionate, and full of hope. A generation is rising, looking up and trusting in God.

It doesn’t matter whether we are in a remote village in Finland or the centre of London, God is working to provide those splagchnizomai moments and show us the new thing he wants us to be a part of. Even when it seems like God is missing, he is present where we are –all we need to do is look up and put our trust in him.

EVENT

LOWESTOFT The band and members of the corps from the town participated in the inaugural Oulton summer fete to raise funds for Pathways Care Farm. The band played a variety of musical pieces and corps members made good use of the occasion by having meaningful conversations and giving out leaflets detailing who we are and what we get up to in the community. – NC

ANNIVERSARY

ABERYSTWYTH Members and friends celebrated the 143rd corps anniversary with worship and a faith meal. Time was given to reflect on and give thanks to the Lord for the lives of people associated with the corps since it opened in 1882. This was visually captured in a paper chain that recorded names being placed on the mercy seat during prayer. Those attending also set up an Ebenezer-style memorial recalling 1 Samuel 7:12: ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us.’ This was a marker for ongoing ministry and witness for the Lord in this part of his Kingdom. – PS

COMMUNITY

CHESTER-LE-STREET A free activity week offered fun for youngsters over the summer holiday, with an Army emergency response vehicle giving out around 400 lunches. A school uniform exchange supported families with the cost of living. – AR

NUNEATON Corps leader Major David Stephenson has been accepted as a chaplain with Warwickshire Police. Major David has welcomed this as another opportunity to serve the community. – DS

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

BELFAST NORTH It was lovely to see our wonderful group of young people in their school uniforms for our back-toschool Sunday. They shared what they like and dislike about school and their favourite subjects. The congregation took time to pray for them and for all involved in education. Each young person received a gift of school essentials and Bible verses. – LK

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

BECCLES The Teambuilders Holiday Club was a brilliant success, providing five fun-filled sessions for six children. One game had the children working together to defend and knock down cones, which promoted teamwork and friendly competition. There were also creative craft activities, music and dance, free meals, sandwich teas and hot chocolate! – LW

EVENT

SLEAFORD The Bible Fellowship marked their return after the holiday break with a mystery visit to a special place. Each equipped with a favourite Scripture passage, they enjoyed refreshments at a village café before following Recruiting Sergeant Lynda Tasker to the parish church of St Andrew, Scott Willoughby, the smallest church in regular use in Lincolnshire. None of the members was previously aware of its existence. They shared their Scripture and testimonies in the peaceful surroundings. – NM

OUTREACH

NUNEATON The corps reached out to the community during Nuneaton Carnival. Refreshments were served from the West Midlands Division’s emergency response vehicle. Outreach leaflets were distributed while the band played to crowds waiting for the carnival procession to pass the hall. – DS

NORTH WALSHAM The Singles with a Testimony group enjoyed a few days away at Launde Abbey, a sanctuary for Christian worship and retreat for more than 900 years. They took a day out to Burghley House and a canal trip with the Baldwin Trust, learning about locks and boating. A highlight was seeing a Lancaster Bomber, Hurricane and Spitfire circling over the National Memorial Arboretum. The trip was a time of rest and relaxation with so much joy, laughter and time for deep spiritual connection. – PP

PARKHEAD Salvation Army communities from the Glasgow area came to the corps for A Big Quiz. There were teams from William Hunter House Lifehouse and Glasgow West Corps. A meal of pies and peas was enjoyed by those present. Evangeline Kingsley Grace and corps leader Captain Amy-Jo Battersby were responsible for the questions and answers. It was a most enjoyable evening. – AD

CARDIFF CANTON The audiovisual team, under the guidance of Steve Jones, joined a behind-the-scenes tour of BBC Cymru Wales. It was a morning of fun and experience, and the team were thanked for all their hard work every Sunday. – DW

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

WINTON Thanks to a generous grant from The Count Zoltan Rosco Maria Van Rosenthal Charitable Trust, the corps rolled out a packed summer programme for more than 100 young people. Activities included barbecues, games nights, a glow-in-the-dark neon party with a DJ, a parentand-toddler group and free hot meals. – AR

OUTREACH

CIRENCESTER The band provided music for the official opening of the Phoenix Festival, which took place in the Abbey Grounds. The festival was free and lasted for three days, with more than 22,000 visitors in the first two days. – MG

HOMELESSNESS

FUNDRAISING

FAVERSHAM Pioneer Leaders Bethany and Jonathan Munn provided more than 30 blessings bags. These contain toiletries, clean clothes, tents, water bottles, blankets, sleeping bags and other essentials. ‘We support individuals who are sofa surfing, living on the streets and living on houseboats,’ explained Beth. ‘We believe both in practical support and compassionate care.’ – AR

SUNDERLAND MONKWEARMOUTH Ukrainian refugees and corps members Maryna Rahulina, Tetiana Nikobenko, Daria Kostiuchenko and Marharyta Marchenko, along with Ukrainian family sponsor Peter Holmes, participated in the Great North Run and raised £900 for the Army. Marharyta said: ‘We represent the Ukrainian community of Sunderland, who are strong, brave and resilient.’ – AR

CHARLOTTE, Zanele and Lois were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps leader Major Stephen Baker during the young people’s Sunday, led by our young people. Using the parable of the talents, they encouraged the corps family to think about their own talents and gifts and to make sure we are using them as God wants. – JB

LEICESTER WEST

DAWN Chivers was welcomed as an adherent and Yasmine Al-Saket and Ekele Joseph Ejiga were enrolled as soldiers by corps leader Captain Liam Beattie. The new members, dubbed the ‘champions of light’, are not from Salvation Army backgrounds and each powerfully testified to how the church has become family and God has been moving in their lives. They journeyed through the To Serve course and brought their own experiences and insights to membership. They are embracing this meaningful new chapter. – LB

VAL Cooper was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader Captain Rebecca Mitchinson. Val has been a Christian for many years and recently decided to continue her discipleship journey at our corps. She gave a heartfelt and moving testimony, which was an encouragement to all. Also pictured is Songster Leader Andrew Stanger. – SS

ISLE OF MAN

CHARLIE and Alfie were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps leader Captain Rachael Nieuwoudt during the young people’s anniversary. Charlie and Alfie have grown up in the corps, attending with their mums, grandparents and siblings. They were excited and nervous about becoming junior soldiers but bravely stood at the front to take part in their enrolment, supported by their families and Young People’s SergeantMajor Joanne Clague. Holding the flag is young people’s worker Cerys Mudie. – RN

SOPHIE Gomersall was welcomed as an adherent by her aunt, Divisional Area Officer Major Denise Cooper. The hall was full as family and friends from other corps joined with our own corps family as Sophie’s commitment to God was made. It was lovely to hear words of testimony from Sophie and thoughts from corps members about how much she is loved. We thank God for Sophie and pray that she will continue her Christian path when she leaves shortly for university. Also pictured is corps leader Major Sandra Collins. – MM

MILTON KEYNES CENTRAL

KIRKWALL

DROITWICH SPA

MAJOR BARBARA LOASBY

MAJOR Barbara was promoted to Glory on 19 July, having served 79 years as an active Salvation Army officer.

In 1942, at the young age of 18, Barbara Clucas left her home corps, Thornton Heath, to enter the International Training College as a member of the Valiant session of cadets.

The daughter of officers Brigadier and Mrs John Clucas, Barbara was accustomed to frequent moves across the UK. However, her years of service as an officer took her not just right across the country, but across the world – to South America, first to Argentina, then Chile, where she became fluent in Spanish. This served her well many years later when she was in the Spain Command. In the 1960s, appointments in South Africa included visiting mission stations, producing musicals, travelling to other African countries and running a corps in Cape Town.

Her many varied appointments in the UK included the Missing Persons Department in London, during which time she was featured in the Daily Mail discussing the Army’s important work in this field. Public relations work followed, including appearances on radio and TV, as well as corps appointments.

In retirement, Major Barbara moved to Bournemouth where she was very active for many years at Boscombe Corps. An accomplished pianist, singer and public speaker, she led various sections, including the home league and over-60 club, forming singing groups and producing plays and musicals. Barbara continued to travel to other corps as a special weekend speaker and leader.

In her later years she moved into Fair Haven care home in Bournemouth. Barbara was thrilled to receive her card from the King on her 100th birthday. Having lived a very active life serving others across the world, Major Barbara went to her welldeserved rest one week after her 101st birthday. – RF

ISOBEL McKENNA EAST KILBRIDE

ISOBEL was invited to the Army by a friend at the age of 14 and gave her heart to the Lord. It was there she met Eddie, and they married six years later.

Throughout her life, Isobel committed herself to the work of God at Calton and then East Kilbride Corps, where she served faithfully for 57 years. She ministered as young people’s treasurer for 30 years and had been active within the sections. Isobel worked diligently along with others to raise money for a new hall, which was opened in 1992.

Following early retirement from employment, Isobel commenced a luncheon club in the new building and did this for 20 years, witnessing to others with the gospel.

Throughout her life, Isobel faithfully served the God she loved and fully trusted and relied on for everything.

A faithful servant of God who touched the lives of many people over the years. – GB

HOWARD ROBERTS MERTHYR TYDFIL

HOWARD was born into a Salvationist family in 1934, one of three children. He grew up in the corps where his father was bandmaster.

In 1946, he travelled with the senior band to Guernsey, the first time an Army band journeyed to the island after the German occupation.

Howard did his national service in Kenya where he, along with Jock Lynch, Gordon McGowan and Peter Grahame, formed a YP band.

Howard was married to Barbara for 68 years and had three children.

He held many positions within the corps, including pub-boomer, herald and secretary.

Howard was a fine cornet player, becoming bandmaster in 1994 until retirement in 2023. The band during his leadership visited Norway and Lurgan, during the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, and various other UK corps.

Howard lived a busy life and was blessed with a strength of character that sustained him throughout. – EB

ERIC JONES SHEFFIELD HILLSBOROUGH

ERIC was an ardent Christian who never tired of sharing his faith. As a steelworker in one of the major steel foundries in Sheffield, he knew what tough, physical work was. But he also knew a close relationship with his Lord. For many years Eric would sell the War Cry in his nearby Ecclesfield as well as on the streets of Sheffield.

An officer colleague from Sheffield Citadel wrote about Eric and his desire to sell the papers in the city: ‘He had a great rapport with the “clientele”, and one could never measure the tremendous influence he had particularly in this ministry. He was a “down to earth man with a simple but vibrant faith”. A ministry which could never be measured.’

Eric leaves a wife, Christine, and their children and grandchildren, who all thought the world of him. – GP

TREVOR AUSTIN TUNBRIDGE WELLS

TREVOR was born into the Army to Bessie and Matt Austin. Worshipping at Regent Hall, he met and married fellow Salvationist Grace Catelinet in 1956. She helped Trevor become a rounded person, flourish in his business ventures, bring up their sons, Mark and Paul, and grow in the Christian faith.

Following five years as a musician in the Royal Horse Guards, Trevor spent 20 years in the construction industry. He was also proprietor of two magazines, British Bandsman and Sounding Brass, and founded Rosehill Music Publishing and the British Association of Christian Brass Bands.

In retirement, Trevor established the Rosehill Mission to support an orphanage and a teaching hospital in India, visiting twice to better understand their needs.

He pursued a range of interests in his life, including public speaking, acting as a representative of the Bible Society – which involved work as a lay minister – squash, cricket, walking, horse-riding and cycling. – PA

International appointments

The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff

Effective 1 January 2026

COLONELS JAMES AND SUE-ELLEN BETTS, officers of the USA Eastern Territory, as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries of the USA Western Territory, with the rank of commissioner; Colonel James Betts on 3 January and Colonel SueEllen Betts on 4 January

COLONELS EDDIE AND GENEVERA VINCENT, officers of the Canada and Bermuda Territory, as International Secretaries for the Americas and Caribbean Zone, International Headquarters, with the rank of commissioner; Colonel Eddie Vincent on 1 January and Colonel Genevera Vincent on 2 January

LIEUT-COLONELS IVAN AND JENNIFER WILD, officers of the USA Western Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, USA Western Territory, with the rank of colonel

COLONELS IVAN AND CHRISTINE ROCK, officers of the USA Eastern Territory, as National Chief Secretary and National Secretary for Personnel, USA National Headquarters

MAJORS STEWART AND CRISTA DALRYMPLE, officers of the USA Eastern Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, USA Eastern Territory, with the rank of colonel

LIEUT-COLONELS STEPHEN AND THERESA MALINS, officers of the Southern Africa Territory, as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Southern Africa Territory, with the rank of colonel

MAJORS SERGIO AND ANA NSUMBU, officers of the Angola Territory, as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Angola Territory, with the rank of lieut-colonel

MAJORS MARUILSON AND FRANCISCA DE SOUZA , officers of the Brazil Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Angola Territory

Wedding anniversaries

Golden

SONGSTER JOY AND SONGSTER LEADER PAUL WESTON, Brighton Congress Hall, on 20 September

Dedicated to God

GIO TAWONGAISHE CHIYANGWA . son of Christina Chidarara and Yonfred Chiyangwa, at Luton by Captains Josh and Vikki Herbert

Promoted to Glory

COLONEL DAVID NAPIER from Eagle Lodge Care Home, Edinburgh on 8 September

MAJOR ELIZABETH ROSE from Weston General Hospital, Weston-super-Mare, on 8 September

Bereaved

MAJOR KENNETH ROSE of his wife Major Elizabeth Rose

ENGAGEMENTS

General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Mon 22 Sep – Sun 28 Sep New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory (Congress)

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Sat 20 Sep – Sun 21 Sep Belfast Sydenham Sat 27 Sep William Booth College (Welcome to the Cadets)

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 27 Sep – Sun 28 Sep William Booth College (Welcome to the Cadets)

NOTICES

Domestic abuse training

Family Ministries is working with Restored to build a network of Restored Beacon churches – places trained and equipped to respond to disclosures of domestic abuse and support survivors. If your corps is interested in becoming a Beacon Church, sign up for a free webinar on 25 September at restored.cademy.io or email familyministries@ salvationarmy.org.uk for more information.

Harvest resources

Visit salvationist.org.uk/resources/key-dates/harvest for resources to support the build-up to your Harvest service and worship on the day.

Ecumenical call to pray for peace

On 21 September, join with other churches in holding a minute’s silence to pray for an end to hostilities in Gaza and the West Bank, for unfettered humanitarian access to Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages, and for work to continue to secure a lasting peace. Find out more at cte.org.uk/ middle-east-peace

Christmas resources

This year’s Advent and Christmas theme will be Love Came Down. Find out more about the resources available to support you at salvationist. org.uk/resources/christmas

Older influencers

For the International Day of Older Persons (1 October), we want to celebrate the older people in your lives who have influenced and encouraged you in your faith. If there is someone you want to tell us about, get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk before 22 September.

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message. This week’s message is from Captain Christopher Button (Stroud). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio

Me and My Playlist

This Salvationist Radio show sees a young person linked to The Salvation Army share five tracks they love. This month’s episode was recorded at the London and South East Summer School. Listen to the podcast and Spotify playlist each month.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts

The Salvation Army Trustee Company – SATCo - is the corporate trustee of the trusts under which The Salvation Army operates in the UK. The Audit Committee and the Finance Committee report to, and are committees of, SATCo.

The Audit Committee, which meets four times a year, comprises four external experts with a remit that covers financial reporting, internal controls and audit, and considering reports issued by internal and external auditors and the annual financial statements.

The Finance Committee meets every other month. It is a recently established committee with an independent chair and is advisory to the SATCo board. Its purpose is to consider the overall financial position, performance and planning of The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

We are seeking two additional members for each committee; the roles are unpaid but reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Individuals must be supportive of the Christian ethos of The Salvation Army and the following demonstrable skills and expertise are required:

• A strong financial background, preferably with committee and/or board level finance experience, or experience of a leadership role in a comparable organisation of scale and complexity

• Commercial acumen

• Skills to challenge in a constructive and insightful manner

• Independent and balanced judgement

• Knowledge of risk management and statutory compliance obligations

• Understanding of risks such as safeguarding, long-term revenue generation and fraud

To apply for either of these voluntary roles, please email your CV to the Company Secretary office at Territorial Headquarters using this email: company.secretary@salvationarmy.org.uk

ADVERTISING RATES

ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.