Salvationist 21 December 2019

SALVATIONIST

No.1736 Price 70p

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 21 December 2019

God revealing Now silver, now white, a magnificent light Illumines the heavens, and banishes night, Enticing the wisest to travel afar, To seek for a king, and to follow his star.

Now lowly, now rude, and yet perfect and good, The shed where they find him, though barren and crude, Hides mother and infant alight with the glow Of heavenly grace touching Earth far below.

Now humble, now mild, earnest men greet the child With incense and treasures and hearts undefiled; Great wisdom has led them, and now their souls sing For God is revealing our true Saviour-King.

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QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

YOUVERSION BIBLE APP NAMES MOST POPULAR VERSE OF 2019 The creators of the Bible App have revealed the most popular Bible verse of the year.

Around the world, the verse most engaged with on the app is Philippians 4:6: ‘Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done’ (New Living Translation).

YouVersion founder Bobby Gruenewald said it’s a good sign to see that people are turning to the passage in tough times.

He said: ‘We’re encouraged to see so many people turning to the Bible in response to their worries, remembering what God has done in their lives, and choosing to trust in his faithfulness.’

YouVersion’s annual report showed it was a record-breaking year for how much people engaged with God’s word on the app.

People read and listened to the Bible 30 per cent more this year compared to last year. In total, YouVersion saw 5.6 billion chapters listened to and 35.6 billion chapters read in 2019…

‘What we are seeing in global engagement is exciting to us because with every verse highlighted, plan day completed or audio chapter listened to, that’s a person who is being transformed by knowing God more intimately through spending time in the Bible,’ Gruenewald said.

POPE CALLS FOR DIGNITY FOR DISABLED PEOPLE People should ‘develop antibodies against a culture that considers some lives first or second-class’, the Pope said… in a message to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Pope Francis said that many disabled people felt as if ‘they exist without belonging and without participating’, Vatican News reported. ‘All this calls not only for the rights of people with disabilities and their families to be protected… It also urges us to make the world more human’ by removing prejudice.

He invited people to ‘have the courage to give a voice to those who are discriminated against because of their disability’, and concluded that good laws and infrastructure were not enough, and that people’s mentality about disability needed to change.

Senior faith leaders, led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, have given their backing to the World’s Big Sleep Out… In a highly unusual move, leaders from the nine faith communities (Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Zoroastrian, Baha’i), united by the moral injustice of homelessness, have lent their support.

Interfaith activist Zaki Cooper said: ‘At this time of fracture and division, it’s really significant that faith leaders have come together to support the World’s Big Sleep Out. Homelessness is a shared challenge, and faith communities can help tackle it through collective efforts…’

The Most Rev Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, said: ‘Homelessness is a tragedy that ought to belong in the past. Everyone deserves access to safe and stable housing.’

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The Independent

FAITH LEADERS BACK RECORD-BREAKING SLEEP OUT

The Church of England Newspaper

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

Christmas is considered to be the loneliest time of the year for more than 1.5 million older people, according to a new Age UK report.

The charity, which questioned 2,000 people aged 65 and over, estimates that around 200,000 elderly people will spend the holiday alone this year. And those who have recently been widowed struggle the most during the season…

In total, Age UK estimates that more than 3 million older people may not be looking forward to the festive season, 700,000 (23 per cent) of whom say this is because it brings back too many memories of people who have passed away and of happier times.

Church Times

Premier

(tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

MORE THAN 200,000 ELDERLY PEOPLE SPENDING CHRISTMAS ALONE THIS YEAR, SAYS AGE UK

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth

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TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101 Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

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CONTENTS

MAKING THE VISION A REALITY

IN the recent election campaign the political parties put forward their visions for the future, outlining their own understanding of the better society they wanted to see.

Looking forward hopefully seems to be part of human nature. We all do it. The hope of something better certainly features strongly in the words of the Old Testament prophets. They longed for the age when God would be revealed in all his glory and everything would be put right.

Take Isaiah, for example. At a turbulent time for the people of God he looked ahead to an age of peace: ‘The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks’ (2:3 and 4). Micah says the same thing, but adds: ‘Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid’ (4:4). It’s a vision of peace between people and of personal contentment – the Hebrew concept of shalom, which means ‘well-being, wholeness, peace and prosperity’.

Isaiah goes on to reveal how this vision will be fulfilled: a child will be born ‘and he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end’ (9:6 and 7).

We live in the light of Jesus’ coming more than 2,000 years ago and hope for the complete fulfilment of that vision when he comes again. In the meantime we have a lot of peace building to do.

In his Christmas message on page 4 the General calls us to have a renewed confidence in the gospel, ‘the saving message we preach in words and express in actions’. Our words can point people to peace with God and our actions can help bring peace and well-being to individual lives and communities.

Christians in Bangladesh are a tiny minority in a sometimes hostile environment.

On pages 14 and 15 Lieutenant Richard Bradbury tells us about Salvationists in that country, whose sense of peace rests on the assurance of Immanuel, ‘God with us’. He says, ‘We follow a God of peace and carry a hope that one day we can worship freely.’

Commissioner Keith Banks provides a Christmas meditation on pages 16 and 17.

He looks at aspects of the Christmas story that we don’t always focus on, and encourages us to pray for people whose experiences are far from peaceful, and to pray for ourselves.

Major Lindy Rose considers the personal experience of peace in her Advent reflection on page 11. She shows how it can so easily be lost in the busyness, and how it needs to be consciously accepted.

On the first Christmas night the angels’ message was: ‘Glory to God in the highest Heaven, and on Earth peace to those on whom his favour rests’ (Luke 2:14). Whatever the result of the election may mean and whatever a new year holds for us, may we all know the reality of that message and be willing to share it with others.

COVER DESIGN Hannah Holden POETRY Stephen Pearson

Quotes from the media

2

The General’s Christmas message Good news needs to be shared

4

News feature Parliamentary Carol Service News

5

5 to 10

Advent reflection Peace

11

by Major Lindy Rose

Photo feature 2019 in pictures

12 and 13

Feature God is with us

14 and 15

by Lieutenant Richard Bradbury

Christmas meditation 16 and 17 The other side of Christmas

by Commissioner Keith Banks

Bible study The Saviour

18 and 19

by Major Stewart Grinsted

Through the week with Salvationist

18 and 19

by Major Lynda Levis

Staff greetings

20

New commitments

21

Announcements 22 Adverts 23

Please note, the next Salvationist will be published on 4 January 2020

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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THE GENERAL’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.

(Luke 2:17)

Good news needs to be shared W HEN you experience something good you just can’t help talking about it. That may be a memorable meal, a good book, an enjoyable film, stirring music, dramatic theatre or beautiful countryside.

Whatever the experience, it leaves such an impression on us that we want to share it with others. We have to share it!

Good news needs to be shared.

These days, when people discover they are expecting a baby, many find creative ways to share the news; some hold parties to reveal the gender of the unborn baby; some have parties and – when the child is finally born – they announce it loud and clear.

Jesus’ birth was announced through a new, bright star that appeared in the sky.

An angelic choir burst into song to communicate the great news.

Unsuspecting shepherds were looking after their sheep, like any other night, when the sky lit up and they heard the most astonishing news in a most spectacular way. An angel appeared to personally deliver a message to the shepherds (see Luke 2:9–12). This was a detailed message – the angel clearly described who Jesus was and how they would find him. So the shepherds 4

journeyed to the manger and found Jesus ‘just as they had been told’ (v20).

Such was the impact of their experience on the hillside and in the stable, they just had to tell other people about it. The news was so joyous and tremendous that they couldn’t keep it to themselves. The news about Jesus brought light into the darkness of a shattered world. Like the shepherds, we need to realise that this good news is not just ours – it needs to be shared.

In my message to Salvationists and friends, employees and supporters this Christmas, I’m calling us to have a renewed confidence in the gospel. John the Baptist preached a message of repentance and prepared the way for Jesus. God sent his one and only Son into this world to save it. Jesus then sent out his disciples to preach the good news, perform miracles and make disciples. At Pentecost the Holy Spirit enabled the disciples to share the gospel in a myriad of languages and empowered the Early Church to spread the story of the Saviour to new lands and new people.

The apostle Paul declared: ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to

everyone who believes’ (Romans 1:16).

We are a Salvation Army – the gospel is the saving message we preach in words and express in actions.

The good news of Jesus brings hope to those who are lost, light to those in darkness, joy to those in despair. It offers real transformation to the person who is caught in addiction, disillusioned by materialism or seeking purpose and direction. We share the gospel because we have experienced its truth and power for ourselves, and we know, personally, the ‘author and perfecter’, so we have confidence in the gospel’s transformative power on others.

This Christmastime and beyond, let us follow the example set by the angels and shepherds. Let us use every opportunity and every means possible to spread the word about who Jesus is while showing people where they can find him so that they too can have a saving, personal relationship with the living Christ. It’s not just good news – it’s the best news. Let’s share it!

BRIAN PEDDLE, GENERAL

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NEWS FEATURE

A time to think of things eternal WESTMINSTER HALL

THE International Staff Band once again led the Parliamentary Carol Service for staff and visitors, which opened with ‘Christmas Joy’ and ‘A Starry Night’.

Standing in for the Speaker’s chaplain, the Rev Mark Birch, from Westminster Abbey, wel­­comed guests to the annual service, asking them to ‘focus for a short while on things eternal’.

Encouraged to turn away from the ‘turmoil and confusion of this world’, the congregation reflected on the light and peace of God in

Christ as they sang ‘Once In Royal David’s City’.

In a prayer, Terri­torial Com­­­mander Com­­ missioner Anthony Cotterill won­­dered at the coming of Christ from Heaven. He thanked God for the gift of Jesus and asked for his blessing on everyone who was, and would soon be, working in parliament.

After Bible readings from Luke and John by Territorial Secretary for Leader Develop­ment Colonel Debbie Graves and the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MP,

Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MP, the Rev Mark Birch and Colonels Debbie and Lee Graves

the Rev Mark brought a benediction of joy, eagerness, perseverance, obedience and peace.

Sir Lindsay thanked everyone for attending, affirming that ‘Christmas in this house only starts when [The Salvation Army] attends’. He thanked the ISB, and the Army in general for working with victims of human trafficking and people experiencing homelessness.

‘I really do believe,’ he continued, ‘that this [service] is part of bringing this house together, and you have certainly done that today.’ – S. H.

SOUTHSEA: The annual carol concert at the Kings Theatre, arranged by the corps, raised more than £2,390 for Naomi House and Jacksplace. The hospices provide care to more than 525 life-limited children, young adults and their extended families from Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset, Berkshire and beyond. Russell Rook, who compèred the night, is pictured handing over the cheque. – I. U.

Chief of the Staff lights up Christmas display IHQ

CIRENCESTER: The band provided music for a Christmas fayre to raise funds for North Cerney C of E Primary School, and accompanied carol singing at the switching on of the Christmas lights. The band also provided music for the Advent carol service of 29 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps at the Duke of Gloucester Barracks. – M. G.

CHIEF of the Staff Com­ ­ missioner Lyndon Buckingham conducted the switching on of the IHQ Christmas display for 2019 at an informal event attended by staff and officers.

He prayed that the artworks would be used by God ‘in a powerful way’.

This year’s images look at the ‘aspects of light’ running through

the Christmas story. The Chief paid tribute to the artistic talents of designer Berni Georges (Literary and Editorial, IHQ), who created the images.

Picking up on the fact that four million people walk past IHQ every year, the Chief confessed that he finds the numbers ‘stag­ gering’. He continued: ‘I pray and believe that these designs will be used for encouragement and inspiration… and for some as a means by which God will reveal himself.’ – A. R. l Watch a video of the event at sar.my/christmaslight2019

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NEWS

Handyman on a mission JAMAICA A 67-YEAR-OLD member of Morriston Corps spent 11 weeks volunteering as a handyman at The Salvation Army’s School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Kingston.

Arwel Bell, who describes himself as ‘handy with his hands’, spent his first week getting used to working in temperatures of up to 36C and installing 38 fans to help cool the children’s dormitories.

During his stay he single-handedly painted the dining hall, repaired and painted the shower blocks and replaced cracked floor tiles in the assembly hall. He also fitted new lights, changed locks on doors around the centre and tackled trees in the overgrown garden.

‘I saw the promotional film for The Salvation Army’s Self-Denial Appeal, which featured the school,’ he explained. ‘They obviously needed help so I made contact and arranged to go out there. I took out with me a

Toddlers smile for the camera case full of paintbrushes and rollers, together with tools.’

Writing to thank him, the school administrator Major Rodney Bungay commented: ‘While his hard work was eagerly and professionally completed, it was his Christian mentoring of our staff and students that was most humbling.’ – I. R.

BIRMINGHAM ERDINGTON: Captain Debbie Saunders (Eccles) helped celebrate the corps anniversary. Captain Debbie, who was previously appointed there as corps officer, spoke on God’s faithfulness. She challenged everyone to work together for God’s Kingdom just where they were, after which corps folk shared a fellowship meal. – K. D. MARKET WEIGHTON: St John’s Methodist church welcomed a visit from Hull Citadel Band on a cold, rain-filled evening. General William Booth held a meeting in the church in July 1907 and it was hoped the town would not have to wait another 112 years before The Salvation Army visits again. A donation of £200 was given to Hull Citadel for their work in the community. – M. K.

THE Sally Tots toddler group were visited by producers from ITV’s Tonight, which will feature the group in a documentary on the town.

The producers chose the group for its diverse membership, and used the location as a neutral space to canvass opinions on the town’s shopping, well-being and sense of community.

Parents had the opportunity to share their views with the film crew, who also captured toddler leader Nicola Walmsley sharing a story about Jesus with the children and parents.

The crew were surprised and delighted with the responses given and later interviewed volunteers from the corps café and corps officer Captain Martin Davison about the impact of the corps in the community. – M. D.

An audience of almost 100 people attend a FourHymn concert at Heritage High School, Clowne

FARCET: Leighton Buzzard Band and Songsters helped celebrate the 130th corps anniversary on Saturday evening. Majors Carol and Douglas Back (Leighton Buzzard) led Sunday worship before the weekend ended with a corps lunch. – J. P. 6

BARROW-IN-FURNESS

SHEPTON MALLET: There was a large turnout to celebrate the 125th corps anniversary. The corps continues to be an influence in the community, running food parcel services, a café and charity shop, as well as providing sleeping bags to people experiencing homelessness. The corps is always welcoming and searching for new ways to serve the community. – A. C.

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SOUTHEND CITADEL: Majors David Evans (THQ) and Sarah Evans (North London DHQ) enthusiastically joined a 1950s Army evening to celebrate the 133rd corps anniversary. There were contributions from male voices, timbrelists, the band and the songsters, who were accompanied by a folding pedal organ. Corps members who were active in the 1950s shared highlights, and refreshments were served at post-Second World War prices. Majors David and Sarah led the Sunday meetings. – J. T.

New mental health toolkit launched for teenage boys THQ

THE Salvation Army and Youthscape have worked with celebrities to create Upbeat, an innovative toolkit designed to help boys aged 13 to 16 develop a healthy approach to their emotional well-being.

The six-session course features videos of artists, such as Guvna B and Steph Macleod, and presenter Radzi Chinyanganya talking openly about their struggles with mental health and discussing music that has helped them. It also uses Spotify playlists, creative activities and facilitated group discussions.

Since the mid-1990s three quarters of UK suicides have been among men and the Department of Health has warned that 50 per cent of mental health problems in adult life start before the age of 14, and 75 per cent before the age of 18.

‘The Salvation Army works with thousands of teenage boys… through church activities, scouts, school outreach and community services for families in need,’ says Youth Specialist for Leader Development Matt Perkins. ‘We know many of them are struggling with their mental health and this course is designed to ensure youth workers have the skills to support them.’

The course is designed for use in a variety of settings and with boys of all faiths and none. – A. R.

WELLING: More than 15 people stayed for home-cooked soup and a roll after the corps extended the Friday coffee morning to offer a Winter Warmer Lunch as well. The joy continued as a person from the lunch also attended worship on Sunday. There are plans for the lunches to continue past the cold weather. – K. S.

MAIDENHEAD: The annual Last Night of the Promsinspired concert featured sacred and secular items from the band and songsters, plus a clarinet solo and Singing Company Leader Taryn Parker’s rendition of ‘Land Of Hope And Glory’. The audience enjoyed the traditional waving of flags and sharing choc ices and refreshments. – J. M.

CLOWNE: Sunday morning worship took the theme Talents and included an ingathering of money raised for the helpinghand appeal through the corps Talents scheme, which has raised £1,200 to date. The junior soldiers had attended a divisional Kids Have A Go And Make Music event and used the talents learnt to present a drumming display using large catering buckets borrowed for the occasion. Regional Specialist for Family Ministries Dean Coates gave thanks in prayer. – G. H.

MAIDENHEAD: The corps celebrated 133 years of mission and ministry in the town.

Supported by the music sections, Commissioner Alex Hughes led worship on the theme Running With Chariots. After the message seekers rededicated their lives to sharing Jesus with others. The day ended with a supper, during which many thanked God for his faithfulness. – J. M.

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NEWS

Creative exploration of Jesus’ great commission NEWCASTLE MORE than 100 young people from the North East England Division met for a creative arts day at the Royal Grammar School.

Brass, song, dance, drama and the visual arts were all used to explore the theme Go, based on Jesus’ great commission to ‘go and make disciples’ (Matthew 28:19).

Parents and friends joined delegates for a celebration in the evening where the groups performed items they had rehearsed during the day. ‘God’s Eye’ prayer aids made by the visual arts group were displayed and explained.

Divisional mission enabler Major Caroline James encouraged the young people to be prepared to share their experience of God with others and Divisional Commander Major David Burns thanked everyone involved in the day.

The event concluded with a group presentation of the song ‘By His Hand’ under the leadership of Gavin Lamplough (brass) and Bethany Logan (vocal). – P. J.

Sheffield Citadel corps officers Majors Jim and Sharon Duff and associate officer Captain Lucy Mann present Corps Secretary David Wileman with a certificate celebrating 40 years’ faithful service 8

Justin Reeves (Sutton) leads teaching on David

THURSO: The 134th corps anniversary celebrations began on Saturday with an afternoon of fun, food and fellowship.

Guest Wemyss Billows, whose Christian journey began at the corps, led Sunday worship and brought a message of encouragement and challenge.

The band and songsters presented a selection of old Army choruses and a modern song of testimony. Deputy Bandmaster John Campbell, who has served as a local officer for more than 60 years, cut the anniversary cake, assisted by Wemyss. – M. S.

Young people discover God’s plan for their lives NUNHEAD

CHILDREN from the South London Division gathered for the first Design for Life course for children aged 7 to 12.

Similar to the course offered for adults, but over one day, it encouraged 11 children to explore key experiences and moments in their lives that have helped to shape who they are.

The day included interactive games, stories and personal responses as they looked at God’s calling in the lives of Mary, David and Paul. The day concluded with the young people reflecting on God’s plan for their lives. Each child was given the daily devotional book Jesus Calling to take home. – I. W.

Salvationist 21 December 2019

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Douglas corps officer Lieutenant Dylan Nieuwoudt presents David North with a certificate of recognition for 40 years’ service as chair of the corps advisory council

Chelmsford soldier and lifelong Salvationist Margaret Warburton celebrates her 102nd birthday with family and friends, including Major Jean Bradbury

State-of-the-art care home reopens

The General gives thanks for volunteers

TERRITORIAL Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill officially reopened the Salvation Army care home in Lewisham, which provides residential care for up to 40 older people.

The completely refurbished and modernised Glebe Court now provides a bright, modern, accessible environment in welcoming dementia-friendly surroundings. Funding for the work came through legacies, the sale of properties and land and a generous grant from the Bradbury Foundation.

Residents and staff, friends, relatives and neighbours as well as those involved in the

TO mark International Volun­ teer Day General Brian Peddle released a tribute to the many thousands of Army volunteers who serve others in 131 countries.

In a short film the world leader thanked those who ‘wake up ready and willing to say yes, no matter how small or great the task’. He also reflected on the diverse ways in which volunteers meet needs without discrimination. ‘With your heart of service,’ he said, ‘you are preparing to stare down injustice and bring healing and hope where it is needed most.’

The General referenced the fires, floods and storms that have affected parts of the USA, the Caribbean and Australia in the past 12 months, and praised the compassion and care shown to people in need. He also highlighted work by trained volunteers in the United Kingdom, including those who give up their sleep to transport survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking to safe houses.

‘Thank you for playing your part,’ concluded the General. ‘I pray that today and all days you are blessed, because we are blessed by you.’ – A. R.

GLEBE COURT

IHQ

refurbishment attended the opening celebrations, which were led by territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill and Director of Older People’s Services Elaine Cobb. Everyone gathered to sing popular hymns and songs accom­ panied by a small band. The resi­ dents also performed ‘Bless This House’ on angklungs, Indonesian bamboo percussion instruments.

Home Manager Hilary Upjohn said: ‘All the residents have coped extremely well with the move. The home is just so calming, which has helped put everyone at ease.

‘We want everyone at Glebe Court to feel safe and cared for and also to feel loved. Since moving back in, feedback from residents and relatives has been overwhelmingly positive.’ – N. R.

Army opens emergency shelters for rough sleepers UKI

THE Salvation Army has launched its emergency shelter action plan to ensure people experiencing homelessness are protected against harsh weather.

A network of ‘pop up’ emer­ gency shelters will join the Army’s year-round residential accommodation and outreach services for rough sleepers. The emergency shelters are part of the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (Swep) activated by local authorities as soon as the temperature drops to dangerous levels and involving other churches, faith groups and charities.

Assistant Territorial Director of Homelessness Services (North) Malcolm Page said: ‘If we don’t provide emergency shelter, people could die from exposure.’

There will be more than 250 Swep spaces available in churches and Lifehouses so that rough sleepers can find a safe, warm place for the night. – A. R.

SOUTHPORT: One Way Traffic, a movie following three victims of human trafficking, premiered to an invited audience at the corps. The film was produced by Ian Bennett, an adherent member, and features several corps members. The Blue Room was transformed into a cosy, 70-seat cinema, and everyone enjoyed a pre-screening reception with refreshments. A number of people who hadn’t entered the building before attended. Donations collected amounted to £160. – I. B. l One Way Traffic is available to watch on Amazon Prime Video

A solid performance GLOUCESTER TWO sell-out concerts by the Solid Rock Band (SRB) cele­ brated the 40th anniversary of their album Footprints On The Water. It had been 14 years since the SRB gave a concert, and the group was enthusiastic as friends rallied round to help.

The band and crew trans­ formed the hall, taking the audi­ ences back to earlier years. The talents of the band members had not diminished over the years, nor had their infectious humour.

They also presented two songs during the Sunday morning meeting.

Throughout the concerts it was clear that, since the band’s begin­ nings in 1964, everything they

did was presented to God. Each member of the band witnessed to the influence of the Lord.

The music, despite its age, still had a clear message for all who heard it. – A. B.

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NEWS

Marge and Graham Harris receive a certificate of appreciation for raising £20,000 in four years for community and corps funds; they first responded to God’s call to serve through a coffee morning

FOLKESTONE: Pam Jones was voted Christmas hero by Folk­ estone Herald readers. She, along­ side corps officer Major Sheila Eade and volunteers, provides hot meals for vulnerable people and people experiencing homeless­ ness, and hands out bags of food or clothes. As well as being a foster carer for more than 30 years, Pam previously launched Action on Homelessness in the town. When not at the hall, she drums up support at supermar­ kets, banks and other businesses, and collects donated items needed for a night on the streets. – V. C.

Alvar Cook, Steve and Irene Ellson, Margaret Morris, Marge and Graham Harris and Barry Clarke receive long-service awards for their music ministry totalling 383 years; they were presented during Wellingborough’s 146th corps anniversary celebrations

WELLING: Corps folk joined community action group Prog­ ressive Welling and Bexley coun­ cil’s communities team for a weeding party and litter-picking to spruce up the high street ahead of the Christmas Lights Switch On. The corps also donated to the group’s successful campaign to fund the lights; there is now a light outside the hall. The toddler group were especially delighted to brighten up the high street where they live. – K. S.

OLDBURY: The corps opened its doors to two classes from a nearby primary school. The school asked corps folk to run a session emphasising the real meaning of Christmas for the children. The pupils, aged seven and eight, considered Jesus coming to bring love into the world and how he could make a difference in their lives. A small ensemble from the band came to support and accompanied the singing of carols. – L. H-N.

Anniversary celebrations conclude with African Praise CROYDON CITADEL PEOPLE from as far as Leeds and Paris came to take part in an African Praise weekend that marked the finale of the 150th corps anniversary celebrations.

Saturday began with a feast of African dishes followed by a presentation of the history of the Army in Zimbabwe, which included corps members who had served there. Visitors came to support corps folk from different African countries, and many in the congregation wore traditional attire.

The band opened the evening programme with ‘They Shall Come From The East’ as participants waved their national flags. The host sections, guests and timbrelists also brought joyful items.

Commissioner Stuart Mungate, who compèred the evening, 10

expressed gratitude to The Salvation Army for his own life experiences and for its work in his home country. In his message, based on Exodus 12, he encour­ aged everyone that they could find freedom from personal oppression, before the concluding song ‘God Bless Africa’.

An integrated and inclusive Sunday meeting featured Africanthemed contributions, including ‘Nearer, My God, To Thee’ in Shona, brought by the Zim­ ­ babwean Hosho group, followed by prayers in multiple languages.

Intercultural Mission Enabler Major Jonny Smith (THQ) assured the congregation that resources are available to enhance diversity in the UKI Territory, and Commissioner Stuart chal­ lenged everyone to consider service in the developing world and in officership. His appeal resulted in several seekers at the mercy seat.

Corps officer Major Mike Lloyd-Jones thanked all who had made the weekend a success, and closed the event with prayer.

– W. M. /J. S.

Rutherglen corps officer Major Catherine Wyles and cook Michelle Wood receive a £300 donation from Specsavers for the lunch club

Shoeburyness corps officer Captain Rob Davis receives £200 from Asda community champion Lorraine Coman, donated in aid of corps work

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ADVENT REFLECTION

Hope Love Joy Peace

Peace be with you Our Advent series concludes as Major Lindy Rose reflects on peace

‘H

ELP! I’ve been robbed.’ That’s my cry of anguish, as I realise the enormity of the situation I’m facing. ‘They’ve taken everything, there’s nothing left. It’s gone, it’s all gone!’

I desperately look around, trying to take stock of what I see, what I experience and how I feel. A wave of insecurity and uncertainty sweeps over me as I begin to make sense of what’s happening. My anxiety levels are rapidly rising within me. The more I notice, the more fearful I become. My breathing and heart rate quicken and then slowly become regular again as I sit, head in hands, and reflect on how I came to be here.

The pressure to prepare, to get ahead; the busyness, the buying, the shopping and the wanting; the eating, the meeting, the greeting and the carolling; the rushing, the pushing and the planning.

Surely, this cannot be right.

Advent was my time to watch and wait, to pause and, like John the Baptist, ‘prepare the way for him’ (Luke 1:76) – an opportunity for my feet to be guided ‘into the path of peace’ (Luke 1:79). But what have I done? I’ve allowed someone – well, everyone, including myself – to guide me elsewhere and rob me of my peace.

My peace is a gift from Christ himself.

There’s nothing on Earth like it. When Jesus promised his disciples peace he used the typical Jewish greeting, shalom (see John 14:27), which Frederick Dale Bruner defined as: ‘May things go well

with you in every way.’ Without such peace, the things in my life cannot go well in any way. I am comforted to know that this incomparable peace is offered to those who are troubled or fearful time and time again. I’m in good company.

The fact that Christ’s peace is a gift is significant. Many things in life are promised yet not delivered, or given yet not accepted. Similarly, that which is received can later be disregarded or ignored. Advent is a timely punctuation in the Christian calendar to recognise the gifts that money cannot buy: hope, love, joy and peace. Each gift is freely and willingly given by God, and they are all wrapped together and embodied by Jesus.

In the watching and waiting of Advent I am mindful of the dangers in letting this slide. I’m overflowing with hope, pouring out love, abundantly joyful – but when it comes to peace, I find myself falling short.

As a child of God seeking to live out my authentic discipleship on Earth, I hear the proclamation of the angels: ‘Glory to God in the highest Heaven, and on Earth peace to those on whom his favour rests’ (Luke 2:14). I believe God’s favour rests on me and therefore his peace does too, no matter how hard I appear to work otherwise.

Jesus warns the disciples that they will have trouble in the world. It’s not a mere possibility. John 16:33 states clearly: ‘You will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’ That’s a comfort, if

ever I needed one. Jesus says in the same verse: ‘I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.’ Wow! In me. There’s a connection, a closeness, a relationship and an embrace. How I’ve longed for that this Advent, and I nearly missed it.

Simeon waited patiently to see the Messiah. He served faithfully until he set eyes on Jesus, presented by his parents at the Temple. His Advent was a thorough one. He could not let anyone or anything take away the moment he’d looked forward to all his life. Just one glimpse of the Prince of Peace was enough. His response to God was: ‘You may now dismiss your servant in peace’ (Luke 2:29).

So what am I waiting for? Do I continue to sit here, head in hands, bemoaning my lot? Am I content to let everyone and everything define my response to the absence of peace? Not a chance. As I prepare the Advent way, I consciously manoeuvre into the path of peace. I gladly accept this wonderful gift of incomparable peace from Christ himself, and seek to share it.

From the depths of my innermost being, I recognise his peace in me. With that, I’m glad to say, I go in peace towards all that Christmas brings. Peace be with you!

MAJOR ROSE IS CORPS OFFICER, HENDON Salvationist 21 December 2019

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PHOTO FEATURE 2019 in pictures

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4 1. Whitby Kidz Klub sponsored walk 2. The TC and John Lennon’s sister, Julia Baird, open Strawberry Field 3. Commissioner Harry Read is admitted to the Order of the Founder by the General 4. The TC launches the Anti-Slavery Day tattoo campaign 5. The General meets the Pope 6. No long faces at Bellshill YP weekend 7. Sunderland Millfield Corps members in Race for Life 8. Major Julian Watchorn (Portsmouth Citadel) abseils down the Emirates Spinnaker Tower 9. Enabled Summer School hoedown 10. Salvationist Ian Richards breaks a world race walking record 11. Grosvenor Lifehouse and supporters at Belfast’s Féile celebrations 12. Pentre 140th corps anniversary film 13. Symphony Sounds, Birmingham 14. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola visits the homelessness services football tournament 15. The South and Mid Wales Fellowship Band on Norwegian Constitution Day

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FEATURE I Christmas in Bangladesh

God is with us Lieutenant Richard Bradbury reveals how Christmas is celebrated in Bangladesh

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S I approached the Salvation Army hall with my sermon in my bag, preparing to deliver the Christmas Day message, I spotted 15 heavily armed police officers surrounding the building. I chatted nervously to my fellow passengers as we drew nearer and discovered the police had been sent by the authorities to protect us. I realised then that for many people in Bangladesh, and in other places around the world, Christmas can be a time of fear and even persecution.

Despite the challenges, we went ahead with the service. It was clear to me on that Christmas Day, as we celebrated with carols, Scripture and dancing, that The Salvation Army is courageously doing all it can to bring Christmas to communities, corps, projects and institutions.

As a family we have spent Christmas in Denmark, the UK, Zambia and Kenya, but Christmas in Bangladesh differs from Christmas anywhere else.

Despite the hustle and bustle and 14

chaos and colour of living in the most densely populated capital city in the world, you’ll find no indication that Christmas is approaching when walking through Dhaka in December; there are no Christmas trees, no bright lights, no sparkling decorations and no Christmas songs.

For some people, that might sound like heaven but with two excitable younger children, my wife, Heidie, and I have to be creative in upholding some simple, portable family traditions. One we do enjoy and appreciate each year is opening Christmas cards together.

This year it has been particularly special. It is also immensely encouraging. As the Bradbury family, and as part of the wider family of UK personnel serving overseas, we would like to say thank you to everyone who takes time to send these. It is part of our Christmas now.

Last year was our first experience of Christmas in Bangladesh. Despite the lack of festive cheer, the nearer we got to 25 December the more we saw that

our Muslim friends and colleagues were able to see beyond the differences and divisions and wish us a simple ‘Happy Christmas’. We valued and respected their increasing willingness to share in our celebrations in some small way.

Since coming here we’ve seen that Islam, like Christianity, has its own unique holidays, but there are some customs and traditions we have in common. Regularly during Ramadan parcels or platters of food would be brought to our house in the evening, and occasionally we would be invited to share in a celebratory meal with our Muslim friends to mark the daily breaking of the fast. At the end of Ramadan we received gifts to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

Christmas seemed like a good time for us to reciprocate – to return the favours and send gifts to our friends. It was also an opportunity to remind people sensitively that we were celebrating the birth of Jesus. And, perhaps more importantly in our context, it was a chance to promote peace, unity and inclusion.

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Lieutenant Richard Bradbury

‘

Lieutenant Heidie Bradbury (right)

Christmas is a chance to promote peace, unity and inclusion

’

Despite the general Christmas silence in mainstream society, we learnt that Christmas in Bangladesh is an important, joyous and precious time for Christians, who make up just 0.3 per cent of the population. There are many Christmas traditions emerging within their safe spaces. We learnt about some of these new customs while celebrating Christmas with the Salvation Army family: chicken biryani for Christmas lunch, dancing after the church service on Christmas Day and – my favourite – Santa arriving in a rickshaw at the children’s home Christmas party.

But we also saw that the personal cost of following Jesus was amplified at Christmas time. Many of our officers and

soldiers have converted to Christianity from other religions at great sacrifice.

They have been cast out from their families and communities for their faith, consequently forfeiting any chance to celebrate important religious days and holidays with those closest to them. Instead, the corps fellowship or the headquarters staff have become their family. They share their Christmas meal together – or Christmas feast, as it is called here – and exchange gifts, while rejoicing in the true hope of the story of the birth of Jesus. It is a special time of joyful fellowship, focused worship and authentic sharing.

In the Christmas service that was surrounded by armed security, the reading was from Matthew 1:22 and 23 and concentrated on the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy: ‘All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).’

At the end of each prayer time in our

corps, we don’t conclude with a resounding ‘Amen’: we sensitively conclude by repeating the name ‘Immanuel’. It feels like we are reassuring each other that God is with us, even when everyone around us has different beliefs. So, in the midst of joy and fear at Christmas time, we are able to remind each other that God is dwelling among us and helping us on our faith journeys. We take strength that we are not alone, that we follow a God of peace and carry a hope that one day we can worship freely without the need for armed security.

The untraditional feel, the low-key approach and the minority viewpoint of Christmas have helped me to identify with Immanuel, God incarnate, that little bit more deeply.

LIEUTENANT BRADBURY IS PROJECTS OFFICER, BANGLADESH COMMAND Salvationist 21 December 2019

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CHRISTMAS MEDITATION

The other side of Christmas

by Commissioner Keith Banks

C

HRISTMAS? Bring it on! We love it. Well, most of us do. Carols, cards and crackers; food, festive games and fairy lights; parties, pantomimes and pies. These, with an idyllic-looking Nativity scene thrown in here and there, are the themes and images that we encounter daily from Hallowe’en onwards and confront us as we open our Christmas cards.

Apart from the ‘Hallowe’en onwards’ bit – that’s far too early – there is nothing much wrong with having so many fun things going on in the run-up to Christmas, especially for those of us whose pre-Christmas days are short, dark and usually very cold. After all, Christmas is a time for celebrating the greatest gift God gave to the world: Jesus.

But there is another side to the love, joy and peace of Christmas that doesn’t quite fit with the tinsel and glitter. That is probably why the events on the other side of Christmas do not get as much attention. Yet they are essential components in this amazing story.

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FEAR Fear made an entrance nine months before the cowshed features in the Nativity story. In Luke 1 the angel Gabriel put in an appearance to Mary, a peasant girl from Nazareth. Nazareth was not famed for such events, and Mary would certainly not have experienced anything like it before. The angel put on a smile and said all the right things: ‘Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you’ (v28).

But Mary was terrified. No wonder.

Who wouldn’t be? Her fear was so obvious that Gabriel had to calm her down with: ‘Do not be afraid’ (v30). Little wonder, either, that flight followed fright, as Mary dashed off straight away to see her cousin Elizabeth, doubtless hoping to be reassured and calmed down.

We can only use our imaginations to get an idea of how fearful Mary felt when she had to tell Joseph that she was having a baby. We might also wonder how terrified Joseph was when he had to give the news to Mary’s

parents – and his own!

Fear came on the scene again when an angel – what was it with these angels? – suddenly appeared to shepherds in the middle of the night to announce that Jesus had been born.

‘They were terrified’ (Luke 2:9) and, once again, the angel had to calm them down by saying: ‘Do not be afraid’ (v10).

SHAME What else would a pregnant teenager feel, living in those times in a sleepy town where everybody knew everybody? They were all happy about the miracle that Elizabeth had experienced – a pregnancy in her old age? Amazing! Woohoo! It wasn’t quite the same for Mary, who was unmarried and pregnant in her teens. She was nurturing a miracle in her womb too, yet there was no applause.

Philip Yancey, in The Jesus I Never Knew, points out that there was no need for Joseph to have taken his heavily pregnant fiancée with him to register for the census in Bethlehem. So why did he

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Fear, shame and disobedience are the unsung parts of the Christmas story. They reveal the other side of Christmas – the less cosy, non-glittery side

put her through that ordeal? Did Joseph love Mary so much that he wanted to spare her the shame of giving birth in her own village?

DISOBEDIENCE Matthew’s account of the Magi following a star to find Jesus (see Matthew 2:1–12) comes some time after he had been born, but it is part of the overall Christmas story.

They arrived in Jerusalem looking for a newly born king. They asked: ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him’ (v2).

No wonder King Herod was disturbed when he heard this. Another king? After seeking advice from the religious leaders and teachers of the law, he told the Magi to go to Bethlehem and do everything possible to find the baby.

Then he ordered them to return and tell him where the baby could be found so that he could worship him too.

There was some jealous scheming going on, and the Magi knew it. So after

they had found Jesus and worshipped him, ‘they returned to their country by another route’ (v12). A classic case of disobedience.

Fear, shame and disobedience are just three of the largely unsung parts of the Christmas story. They reveal the other side of Christmas – the less cosy, non-glittery side. But they are essential parts of the story. The Son of God came into an imperfect world marred by sin.

He would have to take the rough with the smooth and we know how rough it got. Rough wood, too.

As you reflect on these things pray Jesus into situations internationally, locally and in your personal world. You may want to think of the huge number of refugees facing fear; the abused and cast-offs in society experiencing shame; or the many oppressed people, such as those held in slavery, who feel that disobedience is their only hope.

You may need to confront a personal fear, shame or dilemma. Is there something you should act upon?

’

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER Loving God, thank you for revealing yourself in Jesus and for letting him come into the world in the way we did. Help us not to forget the ordinariness of this extraordinary event in the history of the world. Forgive us if we have been selective in choosing what to highlight about his coming.

We confess we have decorated truth with too much tinsel. Help us this Christmas time to think about the other side of the story, the parts that are easy to overlook, so that we face the new year with an understanding of the full picture.

COMMISSIONER BANKS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN INVERKIP Salvationist 21 December 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

The Saviour Major Stewart Grinsted considers the significance of the angel’s announcement

STUDY PASSAGE: LUKE 2:1–20

C

HEERY Chrimbo! I suspect some of you wouldn’t appreciate such a greeting, perhaps even feeling it a disrespectful way to start a Christmas Bible study. I am similarly irritated when people say ‘Sally Army’. Why? Because it demeans the crucial word: salvation.

That word being central to our Movement’s name might lead us to think overconfidently about salvation.

We might even think that ‘The Salvation Army’ is an audacious title.

Certainly, we should be excited, as Jesus’ first followers were, in understanding God’s great truth: that salvation has come, and the world’s Saviour is among us. As the hillside shepherds first heard: ‘Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord’ (v11).

Through the week with Salvationist

– a devotional thought for each day

by Major Lynda Levis

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QUESTIONS What is salvation? l Where is it needed right now? l

As a concept and a reality, salvation is presented not only in the Gospels but also throughout the Bible. Philosopher Emil Fackenheim calls the Exodus – the salvation of the people of Israel from enslaving oppression in Egypt – a ‘saving presence’ in history. Thousands of years later, it is still celebrated in the annual Passover feast, which embodies the truth that God sees, hears and saves.

QUESTION l Why is salvation needed?

The truth of humanity is that people mess up, hurting themselves and others.

We reject God – his way, his will, his wisdom and his word. We become separated from him, embroiled in sin.

See what God promises in Isaiah 7:14 and 9:2–7. Treasure the truth that

‘Immanuel’ means ‘God with us’.

In early 2011, having just arrived in Kuwait, my wife, Heather, was called on a mercy errand while I was leading a Bible study. At midnight, she returned and related her experience. On her travels, she had taken some wrong turns and driven into the dark, dusty desert.

With no houses or lights in sight, she approached Kuwait’s only hilly area near the Iraq border. This was the kind of place where camel and goat herders and shepherds would gather in daylight. She had no way to turn around but a crossroads unexpectedly appeared. She stopped. With no satnav or phone connection, in darkness, lost, alone and scared, she prayed for a miracle.

Eventually, she saw in the distance a light getting nearer. A 4x4 stopped alongside her. Windows down, a Kuwaiti man sternly asked: ‘You English?’

Heather meekly responded: ‘Yes!’ He said: ‘Only English stop at desert crossroads giving way to others not

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God among us;/ Everlasting Father, Prince who rules in peace./ To us a child is born, to us a Son is giv’n./ To those who walked in darkness the light has come.

(SASB 133)

‘You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’

(Matthew 1:21)

O holy child of Bethlehem/ Descend to us, we pray;/ Cast out our sin and enter in,/ Be born in us today./ We hear the Christmas angels/ The great glad tidings tell;/ O come to us, abide with us,/ Our Lord Immanuel.

(SASB 118)

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there. This dangerous area! Why you here, crazy lady?’

Heather said: ‘I’m lost. I can’t get home.’

Smiling, he asked: ‘Where you live?’

Heather replied: ‘Ishbiliya.’

‘I’ll get you home,’ he said. ‘Follow me!’

Heather did. True to his word, the man caringly led her home. Salvation! His promise delivered – immediately.

God also delivered on his promise of salvation. God was neither hurried nor slow. His message came to Isaiah many years before the Saviour’s birth. As Paul later reflects: ‘When the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the Law’ (Galatians 4:4). God kept his word.

At the time of Jesus’ birth, many Jews wanted a political leader to liberate the nation from Roman occupation. Others hoped for a saviour from sickness and physical hardship. The angel’s announcement to the shepherds relates to the Saviour who, as an angel told

Joseph, would ‘save his people from their sins’ (Matthew 1:21).

The announcement of the Saviour was not delivered to politicians, religious leaders or powerful rulers, but to shepherds. Some commentators claim that shepherds, as a class, were despised by, and cast out from, respectable Jewish society. God, however, saw them differently.

God broke the news of Jesus’ birth not to the wealthy elite, but to the marginalised – not to those who lived comfortably, but to those who faced the dangers of wild animals, robbers and a tough climate.

l

good news to those who identify with the shepherds. God knows us and has room in his heart for us.

In our world many people live in fear, and this can cause seemingly unbeatable problems. Fear might also be damaging our Christian witness as agents of change and transformation in the world.

Keep in mind the angel’s message in our study passage: ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord’ (vv10 and 11 New King James Version).

Let us humble ourselves before Jesus the Saviour, rejoice in him and share him, just as the shepherds did.

Do not fear! God sees us, hears us and wants to save us. The birth of Jesus is

MAJOR GRINSTED LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN LONDON

QUESTIONS Have you ever felt overlooked, marginalised or neglected? l Are you lost in darkness, alone, fearful and hoping for a miracle?

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

‘I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.’ ( John 10:10)

Joy to the world! the Lord is come;/ Let Earth receive her King./ Let every heart prepare him room/ And Heaven and nature sing.

(SASB 113)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.

(Isaiah 9:6 and 7)

Hail the Heaven-born Prince of Peace!/ Hail the Sun of righteousness!/ Light and life to all he brings,/ Risen with healing in his wings./ Mild he lays his glory by,/ Born that man no more may die,/ Born to raise the sons of Earth,/ Born to give them second birth./ Hark! the herald angels sing:/ Glory to the newborn King.

(SASB 108)

Prayer

Lord Jesus, as our hearts are filled with joy at your coming and all that it brings, may joy spill into our lives, not just at Christmas but at all times, so that others may come to know the truth of your coming, and experience new life in you.

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Jonathan

Hannah

Shanelle

Simon

Ivan

THE SALVATIONIST TEAM WISHES ALL READERS A

HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A PEACEFUL NEW YEAR

Mark

Maggie

Chris

Melita

Louise

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NEW COMMITMENTS

NORWICH THORPE ST ANDREW: Corps leader Territorial Envoy Russell Day enrolled Richard Harris as a soldier. Richard shared how God had been calling him into commitment and how he felt certain that God would continue to guide him as he took on this new level of discipleship. Richard is the first soldier to be enrolled at the corps, formerly Dussindale Outreach Unit, since its relocation to new premises. – R. D.

EASTBOURNE CITADEL: Brian and Eunice Litchfield were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Ivan Oliver. Having been away from the Army for many years, they reconnected and became involved in the fellowship of the corps. In his testimony, Brian thanked God for his hand being upon them in bringing them into the fellowship and his service. – I. O.

OAKENGATES: Peter Hinchley, Roseanne Innes, Hafeza Antar and Robert Ward were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Major Carole Loveridge. – C. L.

SHEPTON MALLET: Barbara Tutthill was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Captain Ann Chinye, supported by CSM Helen Stevens.

Barbara was born in Swaziland to Methodist parents. Her mother encouraged her to wear the church uniform, but she told her mum that people in the church wore it but were not living right and so she would never wear it. Later Barbara moved to the UK and settled in the corps.

In 2018 her mum passed away. During the funeral she felt the Spirit asking her to go into uniform, so she began soldiership classes. When Barbara was enrolled she could not contain her joy. Others in the congregation joined her in dancing. – A. C.

STAPLEFORD: Tegan Butcher was enrolled as a soldier by associate officer Captain Vicky Owen. – F. T. Salvationist Day 20192019 Salvationist 21Month December

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+ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICER APPOINTED l SCL S/Sgt Cheryl Nash, Leeds Central MARRIAGE l Benjamin Clayton to Lindsay Jones at Leeds Central by Majors Andrew and Valerie Spivey WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Diamond l Derek and Jill Ricketts, Swindon Citadel (9 January) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations l Aux-Captain Jean Brooke (90 on 31 December) BEREAVED Hebborn, Staines, of her husband Rtd CSM John Hebborn, Neil Hebborn, Staines, and Andrew Hebborn, Feltham, of their father l Major Connie McCallum, Eagle Lodge Care Home, of her father Andrew McCallum l Major Heather Yates, WBC, of her father Eric Wilson PROMOTED TO GLORY l Edward Matthews, Eastbourne Old Town l Joan

l Major

Janice Ley from her home on 2 December l Margaret Barnett, Sleaford l Gerry Thompson, Bourne

Lincolnshire and BBC Radio Lancashire 2 pm BBC Radio London 5 pm BBC Radio Norfolk, BBC Essex, BBC Three Counties Radio, BBC Radio Northampton and BBC Radio Cambridgeshire 6 pm BBC Radio Solent 8 pm BBC Radio Humberside 9 pm BBC Radio Nottingham l Boxing Day 6 pm BBC Radio Cornwall

WHAT’S ON The Salvation Army Christmas Concert From The Royal Albert Hall BBC local radio stations will broadcast highlights from Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army, featuring popular carols and celebrities including Mary Berry and EastEnders star Stephen Rahman-Hughes. The programmes can be heard at bbc.co.uk/programmes/p07vsvc3 or by tuning into the following stations: l 21 December 6 am BBC Somerset l 23 December Noon BBC Radio Guernsey and BBC Radio Jersey l Christmas Eve 5 am BBC Sussex and BBC Surrey 3 pm BBC Radio Cambridgeshire 6 pm BBC Radio Oxford and BBC Radio Humberside l Christmas Day 5 am BBC Radio Gloucestershire 6 am BBC Three Counties Radio, BBC Radio Oxford, BBC Radio Sheffield, BBC Radio

TRIBUTE EDWARD MATTHEWS, EASTBOURNE OLD TOWN EDWARD ‘Ted’ Matthews was appointed as welcome sergeant in 2017. His smiling face, together with an offer of a cup of tea, was the first greeting many people had to the corps.

He loved serving God as a soldier in The Salvation Army and, despite failing health, he gave the corps every bit of energy he had. He is greatly missed.

– G. M.

Did you know Salvationist is now online?

Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

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ENGAGEMENTS

l Read through archived issues l Catch up on the news you missed l Read the Editor’s comment and our article of the week l Share archived issues with others

THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM l ICO (welcome to session), Th 16 Jan THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL l Clydebank (retirement of Commissioners Carol and Ivor Telfer), Sat 11 Jan l ICO (welcome to session), Th 16 l Dublin City (opening of new building), Sat 18 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND l Regent Hall (ISS 40th anniversary launch), Sat 18 Jan Hendon, Sun 19

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INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS l Regent Hall (ISS 40th anniversary launch), Sat 18 Jan l Regent Hall, Sun 19

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