SALVATIONIST ESSENTIAL READING FOR EVERYONE LINKED TO THE SALVATION ARMY www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 21 July 2012 No 1356 Price 60p
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PAPERS War Cry y THE
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Est 1879
No 7074
FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS
ROWER SAYS HE’S GOING FOR GOLD Page 8
21 July 2012
20p/25c
MANE STAGE
NARNIA STORY IS PLAYED OUT IN NEW PRODUCTION
SIMON ANNAND
writes PHILIP HALCROW
A GAME of hide-and-seek leads four children to discover a magical world. It is being oppressed by a witch but can be saved by Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy with the help of a lion. In London’s Kensington Gardens children and adults are watching a new theatre production of The Lion, the Witch Turn to page 3
Aslan and four children can rescue Narnia
Q OLYMPIAN RICHARD CHAMBERS TALKS OF ROWING AND HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
Q BRITISH ATHLETES PREPARE TO GO FOR GOLD
Q NARNIA PLAY HIGHLIGHTS FORGIVENESS
Q ‘SHREK THE MUSICAL’ TICKETS TO WIN
Q YORK PREPARES TO STAGE MYSTERY PLAYS
Q PATCH’S PALS WITH ERIC THE ELECTRIC EEL
Q GOD’S CHAMPIONS CONTINUES WITH EZRA
THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS SALUTE TO THE HIRSUTE
BETTER TO GIVE THAN RECEIVE
The Church of England has been named by the Beard Liberation Front as the BeardFriendly Employer 2012. The Archbishop of Canterbury was cited by the Front as an ‘important role model’ in a nation where many employers are guilty of pogonophobia.
Looting and rioting can be a spiritual experience, a bishop has said… The Right Rev Peter Price said: ‘Rioting can literally be an ecstatic spiritual experience’… ‘Something is released in the participants which takes them out of themselves as a kind of spiritual escape,’ he told the General Synod.
Church Times
The Times
TIME TO RECONSIDER GIRL GUIDE’S VOW
FAITH ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD
Since the Canadian and Australian Girl Guide organisations... have had the sense to consult their members and consider whether… it is more important to blindly promise to love God, or to personally take a spiritual journey which may or may not end up in religious belief, I would ask why Girlguiding UK seems to be incapable of addressing the growing concerns of its own members… Without making the promise, no girl or woman may attempt the Baden-Powell Challenge, be a Queen’s Guide [or] become a full adult leader… This smacks of discrimination against those who have decided that they cannot… promise to love a God in whom they do not believe.
You don’t have to be a football fan to notice that footballers and their faith have been making the headlines recently. Fabrice Muamba’s shocking collapse… led to an extraordinary series of events… Another footballer… dropped to his knees to pray… Aston Villa’s Darren Bent… spoke of his love for the Bible… Manchester United’s Javier Hernandez says: ‘I always pray on the pitch before a game… it is not superstition.’
Jane Berry, Brown Owl, in a letter to The Times
The Church of England Newspaper
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS Tel: 0845 634 0101 SALVATIONIST 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN Tel: 020 7367 4890 Fax: 020 7367 4691 Email: salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Web: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by benhamgoodheadprint Limited, Bicester, Oxon. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399. EDITOR Major Stephen Poxon Tel: 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson Tel: 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley Tel: 020 7367 4892 ASSISTANT EDITOR Claire Anderson Tel: 020 7367 4894 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker Tel: 020 7367 4893 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter Tel: 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza Tel: 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael Tel: 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino Tel: 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING Tel: 020 7367 4883 Email: advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH Tel: 01933 445451 Fax: 01933 445415 Email: keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven
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COMMENT
If you ever go across the sea‌ O ‘I do not anticipate an easy victory, but I do expect we are going to conquer by trust in God and hard work. The women who are going are ready for hard work.’ (General William Booth, speaking after the appointment, LQ RI ÂżYH VSHFLDOO\ VHOHFWHG RIÂżFHUV Âą DOO ZRPHQ Âą ÂľWR EHJLQ WKH ZRUN RI FKXUFK DQG FKDULW\Âś LQ ,UHODQG
NE of the most charming television programmes I have ever seen was an episode of The Hairy Bikers ďŹ lmed in Enniscrone, a small seaside town in County Sligo, Ireland. The ‘hairy bikers’ in question, in case you don’t know, are two bearded, jocular men who love motorbikes and cookery. They combine their twin passions by biking around the world in search of delicious recipes. There are deďŹ nitely worse ways to earn a living. Enniscrone, so far as I could tell, looked wonderful – picturesque, tranquil and just the place to relax. One hesitates to indulge in generalisations and stereotypes, but I sometimes wonder if I am part Irish, on account of the fact that – so I’m told – I frequently come across as being laid-
back about things that I am – apparently – supposed to be uptight and worried about. I mean it as a compliment when I say I regard that as a distinctly Irish characteristic. There is, I believe, a test that anyone with ÂŁ45 to spare can have done, whereby a blood sample is taken and one’s racial origins can be analysed. Say, for example, some of my blood was tested, it would be possible to discover, with reasonable accuracy, the internationalism of my genetic make-up. It would be fascinating, but might lead to problems when it came to watching England play football. Having said that, I’ve spent four decades experiencing problems watching England play football, so I don’t suppose it would make an awful lot of difference really. I remember hearing about a French ofďŹ cer who had been appointed from this territory, back to his homeland. In his farewell meeting, he was keen to stress that neither the Union Flag nor the French Tricolour meant as much to him as the ag of The Salvation Army, making the point that he was a citizen of Heaven and that citizenship of anywhere else was – in that context – neither here nor there. Well, whether you hail from Ireland, England, France or anywhere else, I would encourage you to read the feature on page 11 about the Army’s work on the Emerald Isle – and then pray for our yellow, red and blue ag to y there with prominence and inuence. Speaking of genealogy, my mum’s maiden name was Pope – making her, by the way, an ecclesiastical novelty: a Pope who became a Salvationist. That, in turn, links me – albeit tenuously – to the 18th-century English poet Alexander Pope, arguably the most famous bearer of the surname. He had an IQ of 180 – 15 points higher than Beethoven and 20 points higher than Einstein. Which just goes to show: not everything makes its way down the bloodline! God bless An Arm an tSlĂĄnaithe! MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR
COMMISSIONING 2012
FOCUS ON IRELAND
BIBLE STUDY
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Reaching up to reach out
Holiness and mission: a beautiful life
Army people, engagements and tributes
Page 15
Page 20
Westminster Central Hall
Pages 4 & 5
NEWS Pages 6 – 10
ClowneHarrowOldhamRoundthorn NorthScotlandChester-le-StreetKilmarnock SouthseaWorthingBeningtonWellingborough NottinghamWilliamBoothMemorialHalls YorkshireWhitbyCampbeltownInverness HeckmondwikeNorthScotlandBoscombe EstonHunstantonEnfieldKinlochleven DemocraticRepublicofCongoIpswichCitadel SouthwickWrexham
Page 11
FEATURE Wanted: Salvation Army officers Pages 12 & 13
LETTERS Pages 16 & 17
ADVERTS
Pages 21 – 23
ROOTS UPDATE
NEW COMMITMENTS
Roots in the Midlands
Pages 18 & 19
Page 14
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SALVATIONIST 21 July 2012
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COMMISSIONING 2012 WCH pictures: PAUL HARMER
Actions prove friendship Westminster Central Hall EVEN as Territorial Commander Commissioner André Cox was speaking, people made their way to the mercy seat – a fitting climax to the commissioning and ordination of the Friends of Christ Session. The TC spoke with conviction about the claim to be friends of Christ being proven not by words, but by actions. The commissioner pressed home the point that friends of Christ must ‘pass the test of credibility, not just theory’. The mercy seat was lined time and time again as Chief Secretary Colonel David Hinton spoke about the need to stand for Christ. The colonel shared his conviction that the Holy Spirit was active within the meeting, leaving no one in any doubt that only a positive, definite response to the claims of Christ would suffice. Calling people to respond, the CS stated that their part in winning others for the Kingdom lay not in their ability, but in their availability: ‘Jesus will take care of the fishing if you take care of the following.’ The Friends of Christ had made their way to the platform to the challenging words of ‘I Will Make A Mark’ and were warmly welcomed by prolonged, enthusiastic applause from the congregation. Cadets Angela Wilson and Alexander Wood shared inspiring testimonies, telling the congregation about their appointments to, respectively, the most easterly corps in the territory (Lowestoft Citadel) and one of the most northerly (Wick). Cadet Wilson captured attention by using the illustration of a window, testifying that ‘wherever we look – north, south, east or west – God is in control’.
Officers, soldiers and friends join in worship
Cadet Diane Pryor read verses from John 15, set to piano music, before Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox brought the reminder that God first loved his children and they become friends of Christ thanks to his gracious initiative. The International Staff Band lifted hearts in worship with ‘Soli Deo Gloria’. As the cadets sang their dedication song, ‘Set Apart, Called, Anointed’, a tangible sense of goodwill filled the hall. The TC presided over a joyous yet sacred ceremony of commissioning and ordination, each cadet being given a Bible text, with members of the congregation being invited to stand in order to indicate their personal support for individual cadets. Appointments confirmed, the Friends of Christ took their place in the evening
meeting as the newest lieutenants in The Salvation Army. Loud cheering, clapping and whistling accompanied each lieutenant as they followed their sessional flag, carried proudly by Lieutenant Mark Godwin, to the platform, there to sing their sessional song, ‘Friends Of Christ’. Lieutenant Lee Raggett, with her daughter Niamh, led a time of creative prayer, handing out yellow, red and blue ribbons and asking for them to be made into friendship bracelets that would remind people to pray for the Friends of Christ. Lieutenant Victoria Rowney shared her testimony on the theme Taking Courage, before filmed testimonies from the children of William Booth College brought the house down, especially the comment from Greg Toby, son of Lieutenants Andy and Mel Toby, that he hoped his dad, as a new officer, ‘wouldn’t drone on and on in his sermons’! The children received a standing ovation for their song ‘We Will Miss You’ set to the tune ‘We Are Sailing’. A drama presentation brought much humour to the occasion, with several cadets standing behind various chairs that represented their pre-officership occupations. Territorial Candidates Director Major Mark Herbert spoke about God’s ability to ‘use ordinary people by giving them Cadets of the Friends of Christ Session receive the goodwill and applause of the congregation an extraordinary calling’ and Lieutenant Annemarie Cole presented
Colonel David Hinton
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Colonel Sylvia Hinton
21 July 2012 SALVATIONIST
Major Norman Ord
Commissioner Silvia Cox
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Children from William Booth College perform their song
Lieutenant Lee Raggett with Niamh
The Territorial Commander preaches the word
a dramatised reading of John 15:1–17, using her laptop to ‘befriend’ Jesus on her Facebook page. Introduced by Lieutenant Lydia Bartlett, who outlined the testimony behind the music, the International Staff Band, sensing the mood of the congregation, delivered ‘Fire In The Blood’ with expertise and deep feeling, prompting heartfelt applause. Training Principal Major Norman Ord, in one of his last acts in his present appointment, prayed God’s blessing on the new officers, their families and loved ones. – S. J. P.
School’s out for the summer William Booth College AN exciting atmosphere filled the college as the newly commissioned lieutenants prepared to say goodbye to their home of the past two years and the first-year cadets prepared to depart for their summer placements. Chief Secretary Colonel David Hinton greeted the congregation and conveyed greetings from territorial leaders, Commissioners André and Silvia Cox, who were on their way to the International Leaders Conference in Canada. Colonel Hinton made special mention of Training Principal Major Norman Ord – who also prepares to leave the college – thanking him for his significant contribution,
Singing from the heart
Fighting the good fight
Creative prayer for new lieutenants
not just through his spiritual leadership, but also in bringing the college through the recent refurbishment. Croydon Citadel Band led the congregational song ‘Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee’ as the children from the nursery and Jam club – who were bursting with enthusiasm – eagerly waved pompoms, flags and scarves. The children followed this with a rap song prompting the Chief Secretary to remark: ‘I’m not quite sure how I can follow that!’ Lieutenant Samantha Lennox gave an inspiring testimony, describing her training as challenging, informative, but fun, adding that God had surprised her greatly throughout the past two years. Quoting the wise words of a tutor, she told her fellow lieutenants to ‘have fun, take risks and get dirty’, adding: ‘With God it’s never going to get boring!’
Cadet Ellie Read discussed her experiences of the Journey programme in Malawi, describing how the Salvation Army rescue van was a sign of hope to the young victims of human trafficking. Cadet Read then joined her fellow Proclaimers of the Resurrection to sing their sessional song ‘Risen King’. In his message, Major Ord commended past and present college staff for their ‘total dedication under God’. Developing a Hope theme, he discussed how people throughout the UK hope for financial stability and security, people around the world hope for their next meal, for shelter or an escape from exploitation, and asked: ‘The cadets, what do they hope for?’ He added that God initiates hope in everyone, and encouraged the cadets and lieutenants to go forth and spill hope around them. – L. B. WBC pictures: MARK ROSE
Jammin’ in the Jam Club
Friends and family rise to worship at William Booth College
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NEWS Songsters start weeklong celebrations Clowne KETTERING Songsters offered a thought-provoking festival of music that began weeklong celebrations for the 125th corps anniversary. They sang ‘God Of My Praise’, setting the tone for the evening. Individual items complemented the theme, supported by the host corps band. During the week retired musicians attended the sections’ open practices. On Saturday former corps officers Majors Maureen and Ray Baddams joined corps folk and friends for a reminiscence evening, and led the worship on Sunday. No 2 on the roll Violet Green is pictured cutting the celebration cake with corps officer Major Ian Cook (left) and Majors Maureen and Ray Baddams. – M. N./D. M.
Community supports Annual Appeal
Delegates to the North Scotland parent-andtoddler group training day learn about Babysong
Oldham Roundthorn COMMUNITY and corps members packed the building to support the annual Strawberry Tea Celebration in aid of the Annual Appeal. The celebration included a music programme featuring an energetic timbrel display and a singalong as well as a quiz. Euphonium soloist Brian Farrar is pictured playing favourite tune requests from the audience. – I. H.
Fellowship shows no subsidence Harrow CORPS members enjoyed great fellowship, worship and fun with great prayer teaching from Lyndall Bywater at a retreat day of celebration (pictured). The fellowship had reason to celebrate having heard that their corps hall will be rebuilt – they left it ten years ago because of subsidence. The corps has continued to worship at a school and carried on its mission in the community. – P. M.
Chester-le-Street corps folk and friends enjoy a six-mile walk along the Northumbrian coast; young and old were able to interact and those new to the Army had opportunity to share in the fellowship
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21 July 2012 SALVATIONIST
Members of Kilmarnock Home League present a cheque for £500 – raised through the sale of home-baking, donated by Margaret Ross to support Ayrshire Maternity Unit – to Aileen Brown (unit manager) and ward sister Marion McGale
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NEWS A glorious chorus
Young people present musical Southsea THE young people’s anniversary weekend began in rousing style with the musical Go! Go! Jonah! presented by the young people and workers and children from a neighbouring church (see picture). Young People’s SergeantMajor Cheryl Morris led Sunday morning worship themed God Is Big with participation by the young people. The meeting concluded with the action song ‘God Can Do Anything’. Evening worship led by Singing Company Leader Amanda Streather took the form of café church, and included songs from Go! Go! Jonah! The young people contributed prayers and Bible readings and the YP band and singing company participated. A member of the congregation responded by kneeling at the mercy seat. – T. M.
Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls THE congregation gathered in excitement for the opening of the Pasadena Tabernacle Youth Chorus (USA Western) UK tour, titled Glorious. The chorus, accompanied by their territorial leaders, Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs at once began presenting their love for Christ and their desire to serve him using musical talent (see picture). Barbara Allen directed the chorus in an evening of dance, drama, vocals and personal testimony. The young people’s seemingly unlimited energy and exuberance were a source of great encouragement and uplift. The evening concluded with chorus member James Allen’s contemporary arrangement of the tune ‘My Jesus I Love Thee’ with the Founder’s words, ‘O Boundless Salvation!’ – E. C.
Guest performances light up summer’s evening Chester-le-Street GUESTS for a concert entitled Music For A Summer’s Evening were trombonist Andrew Barker, bassoonist Alison Barker and the 47-strong Chester-le-Street Civic Choir. YP Band Member Cameron Barker delighted the audience by performing a trombone duet (pictured) with his uncle, Andrew, entitled ‘Let’s Call The Whole Thing Off’. Corps officer Major Michael Barker introduced the evening’s chairman, Lord Foster of Bishop Auckland. Proceeds from the evening went to the Annual Appeal – the Big Collection. – G. C.
Concert raises £430 for Kenya Worthing SOLENT Fellowship Band presented a concert, which raised more than £430 towards the work of building a sand dam for the Army in Eastern Kenya. The programme began with a march and featured a selection from Jesus Folk. A time for reflection included a band song, ‘Softly And Tenderly Jesus Is Calling’, a meditation, ‘The Light Of The World’, and words of Scripture and commentary from Major Derek Smith. – S. H.
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Letchworth Band is seated among the bell ropes to participate in Benington Church Flower Festival
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NEWS Youngsters show off their talents Wellingborough FOLLOWING a fun Saturday afternoon – including games and a barbecue – for the young people at Irchester Country Park, Majors Miriam and Victor Kennedy led Sunday YP anniversary meetings. After a shared lunch, an afternoon of Celebrating Our Kids showcased the many different talents of the young people, including dancing, animation and singing. – F. P.
Delegates encouraged to aim high Yorkshire LIEUT-COLONEL Doug Rayner and Sheila Rayner led the divisional SAFE (Salvation Army Fellowship of Endeavour) retreat, themed Going For Gold. Forty-one delegates attended the annual
event at Cober Hill conference centre. Session leaders encouraged people to aim for the highest goal, as Paul declared in Philippians. In the final session, delegates responded to the call for a deeper commitment and to meet the demands placed upon them as Christians. – B. P.
Parents attend for the first time Campbeltown PARENTS attended the corps for the first time for a prizegiving meeting and the hall was so busy that extra seats were needed. For a number of years there have not been enough children attending for a Sunday school to take place. However, in 2011 Margaret Raeside started a Sunday school with three children, which has now grown to a membership of nineteen (see picture). – M. R.
Major Patricia Charlesworth is appointed a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of her many years of devoted service in Whitby and throughout the UK; during the ceremony, Rotary officers paid tribute to her love for people and her unfailing mission to serve
A member of Heckmondwike’s preschool meets a barn owl during a visit from the Morley Exotic Animal Rescue Centre; other visitors included a lizard, snake and skunk!
Inverness parent-and-toddler group visits the Black Isle Wildlife Park where the children saw the animals and enjoyed a ride on the safari train
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21 July 2012 SALVATIONIST
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NEWS Mercy seat focus at Bible Day
Choir show their enthusiasm
North Scotland CORPS members from across the division congregated in Barn church, Culloden, for the annual Bible Day, which followed a Mercy Seat theme, led by Major Nigel Bovey (THQ). Major Bovey (right) discussed the importance of the Ark of the Covenant and reiterated the significance of the Ten Commandments. The day concluded with reflective worship and people knelt at an improvised mercy seat – a reminder to everyone of the theme. – F. P.
Boscombe FROM the opening song ‘Glorious’ to the final offering ‘O Boundless Salvation!’ the 60-strong Pasadena Tabernacle Youth Chorus (USA Western Territory) – accompanied by territorial leaders, Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs – presented an inspiring programme of gospel music. They expressed every song with deep conviction and sincerity, and their enthusiasm in ‘He Made The Difference’ and ‘Wonderful Invention’ con trasted with the more soulful ‘The Lord Is My Shepherd’ and the a cappella rendering of ‘Be Thou My Vision’. Several outstanding soloists added their contributions to the programme, compèred by choir leader Barbara Allen. The choir toured through the UK having visited Finland and Estonia. Commissioner Carolyn Knaggs brought a thought from Scripture before the choir sang ‘My Life Is In Your Hands’ and Pasadena corps officer Major Darren Norton closed in prayer. – R. C.
Fitting celebration
Enfield’s young people smile proudly after the YP annual meeting, led by Lieutenants John and Naomi Clifton (Ilford)
Eston THE 131st corps anniversary celebrations included a Saturday afternoon barbecue and quiz. Sunday morning’s meeting was a fitting celebration of the year, featuring a multimedia presentation of pictorial highlights and Corps Sergeant-Major Trevor Watson shared his personal highlights. To complete the weekend celebrations, Bedlington Songsters sang a selection of uplifting songs at café church (pictured). – G. C.
Club members relish rally Hunstanton THE 30th rally for the East Anglian Salvationist Caravan and Camping Club took place in the grounds of Glebe House School. Major Cliff Allchin (Anglia DHQ) led the Sunday morning meeting, offering thanksgiving for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. On the Tuesday evening, the music sections – brought together for the rally – presented a festival at the Hunstanton Methodist church, where a large congregation enjoyed items by the band, singing group, singing company and timbrelists. Other activities during the rally included cycling, bowling and a barbecue. – W. T. Kinlochleven corps leader Territorial Envoy Janet McIntyre takes a break from leading the community choir after three ministry visits to residential care homes where the choir provided light entertainment in verse and song and members chatted to residents
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NEWS Army provides widespread assistance to people fleeing conflict Democratic Republic of Congo ONGOING instability and violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is causing humanitarian problems in the country and across its borders. The Salvation Army is responding to the needs of internally displaced people in DRC and to refugees in Rwanda and Uganda. In Mugunga Camp, DRC, the Army has already provided food to almost 10,000 people. Captain Dieudonné Tsilulu reports, after a monitoring visit to the camp, more food is urgently required ‘because other organisations have not yet started food distribution’. The other big need is for plastic sheets to provide at least some basic form of shelter. Residents are pictured creating shelter at the camp. In Rwanda, the Army started two projects. One is to distribute clothes and supplementary food to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in refugee camps. The other project addresses provision of medication, with many of the displaced people suffering from major health issues. Both projects are being implemented in co-ordination with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees and other UN agencies working in the camps. Uganda also had an influx of refugees. The Army is providing food and drinking water to 6,000 refugees and further projects are planned. A team deployed by the Army’s International Emergency Services will assist with the task. The team consists of experienced emergency services workers, Major Comfort Adepojou (Nigeria), Major Ray Mackereth (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) and Willemijn Bijl (The Netherlands and Czech Republic). Donations can be made online to the Africa Disaster Fund (www.salvationarmy.org). – A. R.
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After weeks of hard work the cast of ‘Daniel – A Hard Act To Swallow’ presented the musical on two consecutive evenings to large audiences at Ipswich Citadel
Concert supports three initiatives
The Mayor and Mayoress of Sunderland (Councillors Iain Kay and Barbara McClennan) share tea with families from the Southwick community project; they also presented a commemorative Diamond Jubilee coin to the children, who earlier in the day staged a mock coronation
21 July 2012 SALVATIONIST
Wrexham A CONCERT featuring young soloists, flautist Charlotte Thomas and pianist Robert Owens, raised money for three church initiatives – School Pastors, a pregnancy advice service and the delivery of food parcels to people in need. A retiring collection raised £214. Corps officer Major Ian McCredie had earlier compèred a songs of praise evening, at Llangollen Methodist church for the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, that raised more than £500 for corps work. – C. D.
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FOCUS ON IRELAND
Reaching up to reach out The Salvation Army’s operations in the whole of Ireland come under one administrative area, with Majors Alan and Linda Watters as divisional leaders; they embarked upon a journey of discovery with the divisional team, officers, local officers, corps members and advisory board members
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IVISIONAL Commander Major Alan Watters says: ‘We looked at “saving souls, growing saints and serving suffering humanity”, considering the all-important subject of values – understanding what it means to be Christians; beliefs that guide our decisions and actions. We looked to God for a vision.’ A booklet has been published detailing the vision and the actions to follow, linked to General Linda Bond’s vision of One Army, One Mission, One Message. Salvationists in Ireland will be encouraged to ‘reach up to God in order to reach out to their land’. The strategy incorporates specific aims for 2012 to 2017. A committed response is invited. Q Under the heading of Reaching Up To Worship, these initiatives will be implemented: families to receive Commissioner Robert Street’s book Love – Right At The Heart; creative worship workshops for officers and worship leaders; ‘after hours’ creative worship events and divisional events, with an emphasis on youth and children; a seminar on How To Double Your Salvation Army Corps In A Day; an appraisal of the ‘I’ll Fight’ Congress. Q The Salvation Army in Ireland states: ‘We will be an Army whose worship exalts Jesus Christ and is so dependent upon the
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Holy Spirit that nothing will prevail against it.’ Consequently, these resolutions have been decided upon: corporate worship will be inspiring, challenging, creative, relevant and life-changing; all members will have opportunities to hear the word of God; members will explore the concept of worship as a way of life; we will increase our worshipping community by at least 50 per cent. Q With regard to Reaching Out To Save Souls, these ideas were agreed: at least 50 per cent of corps will commence a mission development plan; a divisional outreach event will include every corps and centre; DHQ will investigate church-planting via the Vision To Plant conference; resources such as Alpha will be made available. Q The resolve was made that ‘we will be an Army whose mercy seats are constantly filled with repentant sinners responding to God’s call to salvation’. To that end: every corps and centre will have an outreach programme to the unchurched; every member will engage in evangelism; we will increase membership by at least 20 per cent. Q Issues of discipleship were studied, headed Reaching Higher To Grow Saints. It was agreed: corps will develop allage discipleship programmes; a DHQ library of resources will be available; a
prayer co-ordinator will be appointed, establishing a strategy including 365 days of continuous prayer, a web page and a training seminar; pastoral care councils are to be held accountable for pastoral care; every member should practise holy living and spiritual authenticity; every member and centre-user will have opportunity to grow in faith; corps and centres will provide environments that value people; corps will have prayer co-ordinators to ensure reviving prayer. Q Questions of Reaching Wider To Serve Suffering Humanity were considered, namely: reaching a greater awareness of the Seeds Of Exclusion report; community audits focusing on how to meet the Army’s Seeds Of Exclusion deliverables; a focus event to learn about community programmes in the territory; compliance with food hygiene, first aid and health and safety. Q In order to be an Army making a difference in community: corps will be visible, approachable and influential; corps and centres will meet community needs, including at least one of the Seeds Of Exclusion deliverables; corps and centres will support each other; we will actively engage in issues of reconciliation. Q It was understood that Salvationists would need to Reach Deeper To Give. Therefore: divisional events will provide opportunity for exploration of spiritual vocation; use of spiritual gifts will be encouraged; Give To Grow will commence; a divisional youth officer will be appointed; children’s workers’ training will be ongoing; there will be improved communication between DHQ and corps; DHQ will facilitate a seminar on corps budgeting. Q We will be an Army committed to training and empowering the next leadership generation, facilitating: trained leaders, staff and volunteers for every key objective; the utilisation of skills; good stewardship of time, talents and treasure. In order to Reach Up, Out, Higher, Wider And Deeper, the division will: develop new expressions of mission and community service; establish strategies for the northwest region, Belfast and Dublin and for youth and children’s work. Q This article represents a summary of The Salvation Army’s ‘Strategy For Growth In Ireland’, published by DHQ. A review of the Ireland Division took place in June and further discussions will follow, covering all aspects of the Army’s work in that division
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Why aren’t more young people pursuing full-time ministry and what can we do to support them? asks Major Julie Slous
FEATURE
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CCORDING to a 2005 Gallup poll, the most popular career choices for teens were doctors, nurses, teachers, computer technologists, professional athletes, lawyers, veterinarians, chefs, musicians, military officers and mechanics. More recent 2010 findings would add to the mix accountants, firefighters, fashion designers, forensic scientists and police officers. Salvation Army officership or other positions of church leadership didn’t make the list. What happened to the young people who used to view ministry as a lifelong calling and vocation? The survey responses hit me quite personally, as the very thing I’m passionate about seems to be the most undesired by the masses. In 2012, 18 cadets were commissioned as Salvation Army officers in the Canada and Bermuda Territory. While Jesus commenced his ministry with only 12 disciples, shouldn’t we be concerned that there are so few Salvationists signing up for full-time service? Some might argue that less is more. We should celebrate the fact that it is not quantity but quality that matters. Better to have just a relatively small number of Spiritfilled, Spirit-driven leaders than to have a larger group that may not make it over the long haul. We could also look at the Gallup results in a different way. What if being a preacher or pastor did rank at the top of the career list and every young person graduating from high school sought to become a minister of the gospel? What would be the subsequent effect? If everyone chose to be in ministry, eventually there would be no one left in the pews. So we ought not to argue that everyone should seek the role of a minister or officer, but rather ask why we don’t see more people embracing this vocation. When we engage this tension in theological terms, we recognise that being a minister of the gospel is a holy and sacred calling. God said to Moses: ‘I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt’ (Exodus 3:10 all quotations from New International Version). God’s word to the prophet was equally clear and direct: ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations’ (Jeremiah 1:5). Choosing to be a minister of the gospel is not a choice that can be made outside a strong sense of holy calling.
salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
So how do we assist young people to discern the will of God for their lives? How are today’s youth to be encouraged to consider full-time ministry as a viable life goal? Our Founder, William Booth, had strong convictions on this subject. In The War Cry of 6 December 1884, he said: ‘We must have officers. The people are perishing. We want men and women filled with this idea, and filled with the idea of the grand remedy that is provided and filled with the resistless power of the Holy Ghost, who will go and force these same ideas upon the world about them.’ He then went on to address the active role the community of faith must play in nurturing young people towards their sense of God-focused vocation. ‘Let everybody help God to speed it! Mothers and fathers, captains and lieutenants, sergeants and soldiers… put them on the altar. Spend money and time and strength in teaching and training them. Nurse them for God. When they fall down, pick them back up again. Get them saved. Get them into uniform. Write their names on the roll. When they get carried away by childish impulses… fetch them back again. Fill their mouths with your songs. Teach them your music and hurry them in every way possible to get ready for the fight.’ While some might question how directive we can be in hurrying people to the fight, particularly in our postmodern/ post-Christian context, the point is well taken. Our corps have a responsibility to encourage young people to at least consider the vocation of officership. And those of us presently serving as officers have an increased burden to speak about the things that inspire and motivate us as we fulfil our calling. As I reflect on my past and present appointments, I am amazed at all the places ministry in the Army has taken me. My life is richer for all the people I have met and the lessons I have learnt. Yes, there are days when the challenges seem overwhelming. Yet, there come these wonderful moments when you see God’s Spirit bursting forth in a human life and you know the journey has been worth every step. Certainly it has been a life of sacrifice, but also a life of adventure. I have placed myself at the Army’s disposal. Yet I have learnt nothing can outweigh the joy of being a part of God’s unfolding plan for the world. It is also essential that we foster a commitment to membership in The Salvation Army. In order to have officers, we must first have soldiers. Challenging
people to step up and sign up, as General Linda Bond has said, is one of our greatest needs. Only as people are invited to align themselves with the mission of The Salvation Army, and find their role within it, will we find the means to open conversations about full-time service in the Army. Over the last few years at Winnipeg’s Heritage Park Temple, there has been an incredible influx of children into the congregation. It was a memorable Easter Sunday morning when we enrolled eight junior soldiers coming directly from community ministry contact. As we have brought them along the discipleship spectrum, some have reached a point where they are considering junior soldiership. A recent conversation with one parent will always stand out in my mind. ‘You are inviting my son to enlist? Wow! Cool!’ he said. ‘My son just loves The Salvation Army!’ While it was important to help this parent understand we would not be shipping his child off to missionary service any time soon, the father recognised the significance of belonging to something. Who knows, maybe among the mix there will even be a future officer of The Salvation Army! The point is that we have learnt the importance of opening the door for these conversations and seeking to be a community of faith that will nurture Kingdom possibilities. Officers are needed – people who will make themselves available to be used by God in any way and at any time for the mission of reaching the world for Jesus. Maybe ministry will never make the top career choice on the Gallup poll. But in Salvation Army terms, we will find increased ways to strengthen the recruitment of officer candidates in the context of our faith communities. In so doing, we assist the young and the not so young in more actively discerning the will of God for their lives. Q Q Major Slous is corps officer, Cariboo Hill Temple, Vancouver, Canada Reprinted with permission from Salvationist, Canada and Bermuda Territory
For further information on officer training or territorial envoyship please contact the Territorial Candidates Director, William Booth College, Champion Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8BQ. Telephone 020 7326 2820
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ROOTS UPDATE the Bible – it’s inextricably linked to being the people of God. The Lord’s throne is established with righteousness and justice. The Army’s own holiness journey is embedded in justice and the work of creating right relationships with God and then with others and for others. It’s our DNA, part of who we are and are meant to be. I think the important thing to remember is that the calling to social justice is the Holy Spirit reminding us of who we are meant to be. To listen and then to do what we hear God saying is the key to our future – we had better listen to God on this one. His heart is for justice.
Roots in the Midlands Major Drew McCombe talks to Major Danielle Strickland about Roots Birmingham
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HAVE the pleasure of being Roots Event Leader. I was equally privileged to be Chairman of the Congress 2012 Planning Committee. It is no coincidence that the theme for Roots Birmingham is Changing Minds – The Challenge Of Social Justice, deliberately linking to the ‘I’ll Fight’ Congress theme. One of the most encouraging sights at Congress was seeing many respond to the challenge issued by General Booth 100 years ago. Roots Birmingham is all about providing practical teaching and sharing real examples, resources and ideas to help others join in the Founder’s call to fight for salvation and justice. Major Danielle Strickland will be speaking on this key theme at Roots. I caught up with Danielle to find out more about what she has been doing and hear her thoughts on events, Roots and social justice.
exploited women off the street. I’ve released a book called The Liberating Truth – How Jesus Empowers Women, that I’m hoping will do what the title suggests. DM: What do you think is the value of gathering together at events like Roots? DS: Gathering is key for every tribe. The Salvation Army needs it particularly because we are so often about work. We value service so much that we can neglect some other aspects of our calling.
DM: At Roots you’ve been asked to speak on the biblical perspective. Do you think the Bible gives a clear mandate for Christians to engage in the fight for social justice? DS: Isaiah 58 is the unofficial charter of The Salvation Army – it’s the Scripture that made William Booth’s heart beat faster and it remains an important part of our calling. It’s loaded with social justice, as are most of the teachings of Isaiah and the prophets and Jesus and the New Testament. The Bible is incredibly clear on our calling towards bringing God’s Kingdom to earth – this is the work of justice. This is what true worship looks like. DM: What do you hope will be achieved through Salvationists gathering at Roots Birmingham? DS: God’s Kingdom expanded, people saved, saints on fire, revival in The Salvation Army. Genuine love that grows by its very nature. Hope and freedom and truth proclaimed and experienced. Boundless salvation rolling over us and saturating us – motivating us to spread it around the globe and share it with our neighbours. Those are a few things I’m hoping for. Q
‘Social justice is the Holy Spirit reminding us of who we are meant to be’
DM: Tell us a little about what you have been doing since you were last with us? DS: I’ve moved countries – from Australia back to Canada as a corps officer in Edmonton. I’ve had another baby boy – Moses was born this year. I’ve been busy with an amazing team getting sexually
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Gathering helps us refocus, recharge and remember – this was key for the Israelites and was commanded by the Lord. I think if we are going to stay on track and keep momentum we need to gather – remember, refresh, recharge and go out again. DM: Social justice is a key issue at the moment. Why do you think this subject is receiving so much attention just now? DS: Social justice is the oldest theme in
Roots Birmingham is taking place on 3 November 2012 at The Bingley Halls, Hockley, running alongside Regional Youth Rally at Birmingham Citadel Corps. Guest speakers include Phil Wall (Raynes Park) and Major Dean Pallant (IHQ), with sung worship led by Matt Leeder. For more information and to book online visit roots-conference.co.uk or telephone 01825 748883 Q Major McCombe is Territorial Evangelism Secretary
www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist
BIBLE STUDY
Holiness and mission: a beautiful life Major David Cavanagh concludes his three-part series
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COLLEAGUE told me of an encounter with a shop assistant. The girl had been struck by the simple joy she saw in this Salvation Army officer and her questions had led to an opportunity to explain how knowing Jesus can transform your life. The young girl was fascinated and eagerly asked: ‘Can God do that for me too?’ Listening to this story reminded me of David Rightmire’s characterisation of Samuel Logan Brengle as a ‘holiness evangelist’. Brengle’s aim was to bring people to Christ, but his message focused on holiness: he painted a picture of the beauty and joy of a heart and life saturated with divine love, to which he invited his listeners to aspire. I suggest that in taking this approach, Brengle was simply giving theological articulation to a key factor in our early impact on society and success in winning people for Jesus. The Salvation Army’s unwavering belief in full salvation led converts into an experience of often startling transformation: God’s grace turned sinners into saints and this aroused the interest of family, friends and neighbours who then asked hopefully: ‘Can God do that for me too?’
Brengle’s approach, I also want to suggest, was inspired by and reflected one aspect of Jesus’ mission. According to John 10:10, Jesus said that he had come to give his followers life in all its fullness. His mission was to restore the integrity and fullness of life which God intended humans to enjoy when he created them and which was lost when humankind rebelled against its Creator.
In the early Nineties, my father – a Church Army officer until his recent retirement – drove a van that bore the slogan: ‘Knowing Jesus means really living’. Until people understand and believe that the heart of the gospel is that God wants to give our lives a makeover, talk of sin and repentance will probably be perceived as a threat. Our society no longer understands forgiveness and people are therefore too frightened to grapple with feelings of guilt and remorse. Admitting you did wrong is just too dangerous! This is where practical, visible holiness makes its entrance. The New Testament calls Christians to shine like stars in the world’s darkness, reflecting God’s perfect holiness (Philippians 2:15; Matthew 5:14). We are called to be ‘living icons of Christ’. Our lives should be Christ-centred to the extent that his marks are seen in us and we become ‘a window from God through which he reveals himself to the world’. In doing so, we follow the example of Jesus himself. People were drawn to Jesus because they sensed, however vaguely, that here was a man in whom simple, sheer goodness was embodied. Because Jesus was devoted to the God he knew as his Father, his life mirrored the glory of God’s holiness. The divine splendour that was revealed in the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2–9) was always burning away in his heart, and – even if they didn’t really understand why – people knew that he was someone uniquely special. If people truly see the marks of Jesus in our lives, then they may begin to see themselves as they are – and begin to realise they can be more than they are at present. They might not speak of themselves as impure sinners, but, like the prophet Isaiah when he saw God’s glory (6:1–5) or Peter before Jesus (Luke 5:8), they may realise how drab, dreary, polluted and second-rate life is without God and will want the abundant and joyful life that God gives through Jesus. That was certainly true of the shop assistant mentioned earlier. Her interest was aroused, not by anything my fellow officer said, but by my colleague’s vibrant joie de vivre. She saw a glimpse of a richer, fuller, more rewarding life, and she wanted it: ‘Can God do that for me too?’ Q
‘The Salvation Army’s unwavering belief in full salvation led converts into an experience of often startling transformation’
salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
I wonder if we need to rediscover the place of holiness as an integral part of the gospel message. Reformed Christianity – which believes that the Christian, while forgiven, is still a miserable sinner – may focus on justification, but Wesleyan pietists who believe in regeneration and sanctification should surely be giving a message that invites people to discover fullness of life through faith in Christ.
Q Major Cavanagh is General Secretary, Italy and Greece
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LETTERS
Q Change or die Q Inspirational Salvationist
THE Editor invited comment upon the material on pages 12 and 13 of the 23 June edition of Salvationist, under a rather alarmist cover line (‘Change or die’), which did not seem to acknowledge that change is not new, but has ever been with us! Certainly our Salvation Army inheritance needs to be safeguarded, but the adjective ‘delightful’ seems inappropriate. ‘Delightful’ may describe a pleasant summer afternoon picnic, happy children at play or an unexpected visit of friends – things that are there to be taken and enjoyed. But the Salvation Army inheritance that needs to be safeguarded calls for more powerful adjectives: ‘hugely precious’, ‘God-entrusted’, ‘Holy Spirit-inspired’. Such inheritance calls for committed, dedicated, costly, disciplined, selfdenying, intelligent safeguarding – with the serious awareness that, indeed, what we do not nurture and cherish may be lost. It calls for the model of Salvationism given in the article by Kevin Pallister as he describes the ministry opportunities as a school governor that he has developed, so taking his faith into the community in a creative and dedicated way. At the same time, his work as young people’s band leader fulfils a disciplined local officership role, which builds up the corps in the present and for the future. His community involvement clearly witnesses to his Salvationism, it uses and promotes Salvation Army resources and observes the courtesies of liaison with divisional headquarters and his own corps officer. Thank you for such a well-chosen example of Salvationism, and thank God for Kevin and all others who – with commitment and as God leads them – are safeguarding our precious inheritance. Thank you for the part Salvationist and other Army papers have in this goal. Margaret White, Colonel, London Q The Editor responds: I do indeed take the point the colonel makes. The adjective ‘delightful’ was taken from Psalm 16:6 (NIV): ‘Surely I have a delightful inheritance’ and applied to an Army context.
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THE issue of Salvationist (23 June) with its dramatic artwork and cover line ‘Change or die’, the recently appointed Territorial Commander’s message of hope and encouragement and the back-page review of General John Larsson’s CD was truly inspiring. It was all gripping reading and I am now at an age where I reminisce at statements and articles that mention events in context with the gradual evolvement of our Movement. In the article ‘Safeguarding a delightful inheritance’ the writer speaks loud and clear. ‘Change or die’ is indeed a matter the Army has wrestled with since its founding. William Booth was probably the most ‘out of the box’ thinker we have ever had, yet his undeniable promise to God was to be obedient to his calling. The Larsson CD review pulls a vivid memory from my bank with the ‘two Johns’ collaborating in Take-Over Bid.
Q From glory into glory I WAS intrigued by the recent piece entitled ‘Change or die’. While I respect the sentiment I would respectfully point out that, from my reading of Salvation Army history and my personal experience of the past seven decades, the Army has been in a process of change since about 1865. Change is a natural process and we resist at our peril. Change will continue to happen but the pace will vary from place to place, as also will the application and result from such change.
I clearly remember the first performance – a private showing to officers in London – and being part of that production. As the overture began, a small number of officers rose and left their seats, making very obvious their protest at what they later described as a ‘worldly exhibition’. This behaviour reflected the attitude of a few corps music leaders who would not agree with the formation of a spate of corps rock bands during the Sixties – especially when this involved young bandsmen missing a Sunday night meeting because the rock band was evangelising away from the hall! I had friends – wonderful Salvationist musicians – who were shown the door and never returned. Whatever our ‘modern’ viewpoint – contemporary versus traditional, accepting or rejecting – we must remember that ‘whosoever will may come’. Simply put, we do indeed change or die. Christopher Priest, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
However, we also need to be aware that change can be very superficial and have more to do with style than substance. While style is not unimportant and needs to be up to date and relevant, substance addresses the fundamental matters of identity, integrity, purpose and motivation. These have to be faced on a personal as well as a corporate level, bearing in mind the most basic change is that of heart and mind which occurs continually after conversion when, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we are ‘changed from glory into glory, till in Heaven we take our place (SASB 438)’. Ray Kirby, Lieut-Colonel, Selby
Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address Q Please remember, letters for publication in Salvationist should be carefully thought out, logically presented and charitably expressed Q Not all letters can be printed Q The Editor reserves the right to edit letters or print extracts Q Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist
LETTERS
Q I’m not in the picture! IN his letter (Salvationist 2 June) David Mortlock asks: ‘Are you in the picture?’ No, I am not! I was serving with the RAF in the south of France and my letter of application did not reach Red Shield Headquarters in Germany, so I missed the weekend in Amsterdam. When I was posted to Germany it was good to meet up with other Salvationist bandsmen serving in the Forces. The Red Shield Services arranged weekends for us, from Paris to Berlin. A letter from Brigadier Alf Lockyer to the commanding
officer of one’s unit ensured a long weekend pass to attend. In those days a British Army brigadier ranked higher than a colonel, which added weight to his request and Brigadier Lockyer never made them any the wiser! Centres visited ranged from Essen, Hannover, Hamburg, Cologne – sleeping on straw – and Berlin, where we billeted in the 1936 Olympic Stadium. Of all the band music we played, the selection ‘Where Duty Calls’ stands out. At the first practice, Ken Kew played the emotive cornet passage, ‘I must have the Saviour with me’. As he finished, the faces of the rest of the band registered a silent ‘Wow!’ Albert Jakeway never wrote better. I cannot praise highly enough the help given by the Red Shield Services
Headquarters’ staff and the officers of the red shield clubs. They provided a lifeline to a young Salvationist on military service, keeping him in touch with God and The Salvation Army. My photograph shows British personnel playing alongside comrades of Hannover Corps. Once again, I’m not in the picture, as I was taking the shot from a similar pile of rubble on the other side of the street! Kenneth Kilgour, Greenock
Q Wonderful news!
IN response to recent letters in Salvationist concerning a photograph of a red shield band, I can confirm it was taken in Amsterdam in November 1946 when the band, under the leadership of Brigadier Lockyer and Major Saywell, participated in a Salvation Army congress (probably the first held since the cessation of hostilities). My father, Major John Moores, was the colour sergeant of this band and travelled widely with it to events in Holland, Belgium and Germany. Many of the photos taken during this time show him proudly marching at the head of the band carrying the flag that meant so much to him. Eileen Doncaster, Boscombe
IT was so encouraging to read the article by Major Colin Cowdery (Salvationist 30 June) – in particular to learn of the experiences of the cadets on their prayer walk. Reading between the lines, one is able to get some idea of the difficulties faced when trying to witness in Pakistan, but to hear how God is leading and inspiring the cadets is wonderful news! I have added the training college there to my Thursday morning prayers. Paul Latham, Major, Blairgowrie
salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
SALVATIONIST 21 July 2012
Q My father carried the flag
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NEW COMMITMENTS Hannah Mason Soldier Ben Cook Adherent member
Gerry Slessenger Soldier
Lynda Newbury Peter Newbury Heather Phillips James Taylor Vic Jannels (not pictured) Sheila Jannels (not pictured) Adherent members HORSHAM GERRY began attending meetings some months ago after moving to be near his parents. He soon found his spiritual home at the corps and discovered more and more of God’s purposes for him. Gerry’s enrolment came at a significant time, as Recruiting Sergeant Donald Jones was promoted to Glory the previous day. Donald had done much of the preparation for this enrolment. As Gerry signed the soldier’s covenant many people made their own personal covenants with God. Gerry was enrolled by corps officer Captain Ian Woodgate. Lynda and Peter found themselves at The Salvation Army having asked God what they should be doing with their lives and where they could be serving him. Heather had a similar experience and shared with the congregation how her grandfather had been in the Army. He had prayed daily that she would find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. She now prays for her grandchildren in the same way. James met the corps officer outside the hall and got talking. The captain invited him to the meetings and he soon started to attend and receive help from the corps community programme. Vic and Sheila have been members of the congregation for a long time and are tremendous supporters of the work at Horsham through their leadership of the music sections and organising of fundraising and awareness events. Captain Woodgate welcomed the new adherent members. – I. M.
Heather Appleton Aline Garrity Soldiers LIVERPOOL WALTON HEATHER was brought up in the Army and was a member of Thatto Heath Corps. However, after leaving some years ago, Heather was invited to attend the Army at Liverpool Walton following a conversation with Songster Carol Stephens. Heather testified to soldiership not being her right, as she believed in her youth, but her privilege. Originally from Lebanon, Aline arrived in the UK some years ago. She attended the parent-and-toddler group and received a warm welcome. Aline initially thought membership at the Army was exclusive, but community manager Gill Collings invited her to a number of other activities, including the Alpha and A Life Worth Living courses. She testified to the friendliness and the feeling of inclusiveness which drew her to the fellowship. Corps officer Major Linda Billard enrolled Heather and Aline as soldiers. – L. B.
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SWINDON CITADEL TWO years ago a neighbouring Salvationist family invited Hannah to the Army and she became a junior soldier. After due consideration, she decided to become a senior soldier and, in the presence of family members, was enrolled by corps officer Major Sylvia Watts. Having enjoyed her time in the singing company, she was also commissioned as a songster. She testified: ‘Although I didn’t grow up in the Army, it somehow feels that I have been here all my life. I have never known such a tight-knit group of people to welcome me with such open arms. I want to thank everyone for supporting me and helping me when my faith has been tested.’ She also referred to a verse in the Bible, which she said sums up being a soldier: ‘We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.’ Along with his family, Ben has recently begun attending the corps; they were present when Major Watts welcomed him as an adherent member. – K. S.
Robin Glover Adherent member BATLEY ROBIN has attended the corps with his wife, Grace, for some time. He felt it was time to recognise The Salvation Army as his spiritual home. He testified that he has never felt as welcome anywhere else as he did at the Army, a place he calls home. Robin was welcomed into the fellowship as an adherent member by corps officer Lieutenant Wayne Duffy. – W. D.
Clarrie Burdett Adherent member EVESHAM CORPS leader Territorial Envoy Sandra Stanford was pleased to welcome Clarrie as an adherent member. He has found fulfilment in working in the charity shop and he loves to give his testimony and to tell stories to Cameo and lunch club members about his service in the Merchant Navy. – P. S.
George James Junior soldier ASHFORD ALTHOUGH George was keen to become a junior soldier, during his preparation classes he asked if he could change the junior soldier’s promise. Instead of promising to be God’s loving and obedient child his suggestion was that he would try to be! At George’s enrolment the congregation considered Deuteronomy 6:5 and 6 (NIV): ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.’ George was enrolled by corps officer Lieutenant Tim Swansbury. – R. C.
www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist
NEW COMMITMENTS
Anne Francis Soldier GUISBOROUGH ANNE was born in South Wales but moved to the North East with her family at the age of five. Three years ago Anne began looking for a church and, having discovered that her great-grandmother was a Salvationist, she found the website for the corps and decided to attend. She was overwhelmed by the friendly greeting and has attended ever since. Last year she became an adherent member but felt the time was right to make a further commitment. Anne says God has been her lifelong best friend and rock and she loves to tell other people about him. She was enrolled by corps officer Major Sarah Price. – S. S.
Pauline Field Soldier BRAINTREE PAULINE has a church background which led her Salvationist neighbour to invite her to the Army. She enjoyed the fellowship and the worship and made a recommitment of her vows to the Lord. She was enrolled by corps officer Major Cliff Bradbury. – C. B.
Lucille Grand Soldier
Chris Tyler Angela Tyler Soldiers TUNBRIDGE WELLS CHRIS and Angela have attended the Army for some time and felt at home because of the warmth and friendship of the corps members. They were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Elizabeth Lloyd. – A. S.
SHERINGHAM LUCILLE was brought up in a Christian home and joined The Salvation Army when she was 16. In 1966 she moved to Sheringham where she met and married Ray. They moved to Essex and joined the Baptist Church, but the call of the Army was never far away and they returned to Sheringham. In 2010 Lucille sat in the new hall and felt God speak to her through some Scripture that had always been part of her Christian walk: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart… These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts’ (Deuteronomy 6:5 and 6, NIV). She knew the Lord was asking her to make a recommitment. Corps officer Major Alan Read enrolled Lucille as a soldier and she joined the songsters to sing ‘The Army Of The Lord’. – A. C.
Omsa Driscoll Maureen Mills Rosemary Parrott Adherent members Pat Hover Steve Humphries Adherent members HOXTON OMSA has attended the corps for a while and decided to make The Salvation Army her church. Pat has also attended for some time, having been introduced through the day centre. Steve formerly attended another corps but had not been to the Army for some time, although he always considered it his church. He works for the corps, driving the minibus as well as other duties. Omsa, Pat and Steve were welcomed by corps officer Major Mike Smith. – M. S.
Kimberley Borland Zak Reid Junior soldiers CUMBERNAULD KIMBERLEY and Zak were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Lieutenant Joanna Moir. Kimberley’s family joined the corps through the parent-and-toddler group. Zak went to the corps when he and his twin sisters were dedicated to God. Zak and Kimberley were excited to be making a commitment to follow Jesus, inviting friends and family to celebrate with them. They used the song ‘God Can Do Anything’ as their testimony of their trust in the Lord. – J. M.
salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
Harriet Martin Joel Drury Junior soldiers PETERBOROUGH CITADEL MAUREEN and Rosemary took part in the Start course at the corps day centre and decided to make new commitments. Corps officer Major Beth Maddern welcomed Maureen and Rosemary as adherent members. Harriet and Joel were supported by their families during their enrolments. They were enrolled as junior soldiers by Joel’s grandfather, Lieut-Colonel Keith Howarth. – A. M.
Soul Stanford Junior soldier PLYMOUTH EXETER HALL WHITLEIGH SOUL was enrolled as a junior soldier on the 130th corps anniversary. He has wanted to be a junior soldier for a long time and is finally old enough. He was very excited on the day of his enrolment and sang ‘O Happy Day’ with his father, corps officer Captain Kelston Stanford. Soul was enrolled by his grandfather, Territorial Envoy Paul Stanford (Tewkesbury and Evesham). – K. S./T. R.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE PALACE VISIT Bandsman Donald and Songster Linda Orr, Rutherglen, received invitations to a garden party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh. LOCAL OFFICER APPOINTED SCL Alison Quick, Leighton Buzzard.
Anglesey (80 on 30 July). Retirement addresses: Majors Ian and Irene Kerrison, Selby; Majors David and Lorraine Wakefield, Rochester; Major Peggy Smardon, Weston-super-Mare. PROMOTED TO GLORY Maureen Baxter, Kirkcaldy; Rachel Marshall, Halifax; Sheila Baker, Bridlington.
MARRIAGE Sean O’Leary-Wilkins to Tracy Wilkins at Cheltenham by Captain Steve Smith. WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: Jim and Mrs Iris Houchen, Thornaby. Golden: Mike and Mrs Avis Upson, Harpenden; Rtd SL Dennis and S/Sec Mrs Hilda Harrison, Darlaston; Howard and OSCL Mrs Ruth Johnson, Reading Central (4 August). DEDICATED TO GOD Kathryn Jane, daughter of John and Ivon Baker, at Cheltenham by Captain Steve Smith; Rowan John, son of David and Sarah Coulthard, at Sunderland Millfield by Majors David and Maureen Gill; Benjamin James Llewelyn, son of Philip and Rachael Nurse, at Blackpool Citadel by Territorial Envoy Ian Browning; Phoebe Rose, daughter of Steve Halliwell and Angela Whenlock, at Bolton Citadel by Major Fiona Broom; Max Richard, son of Richard Charlton and Claire Sherratt, at Portland by Major Granville Myers; Mollie Anne, daughter of Ian and Becca Martin, at Weymouth by Captain Kath Myers. BEREAVED CT Kathleen Foster, Bolton Citadel, of her sister Pat; S/Reservist Gill Ellson, Wellingborough, of her sister Sheila Chown. RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: Major Ivor Jackson,
ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: USA Eastern, Th 26 July - Mon 30; Ghana, Tu 7 Aug - Mon 13; ICO, Sun 19, Wed 22 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: ICO, Tu 24 Jul
TRIBUTES FLORENCE GARDENER, NUNEATON GOD has called home to Glory his oldest soldier at Nuneaton. Flo was born in 1911 and became a soldier at the corps in 1928. She loved to sing and was a songster for many years. She worked in a textile factory for 46 years, and – having no family of her own – was ‘adopted’ by some close friends who took her into their home. She lived with them for many years. Flo was housebound in recent years and despite her great age was very clear in her mind. She knew the Lord had prepared an eternal home for her. – C. V. MRS ETHEL SUFFIELD, BROMSGROVE THE first soldier to be enrolled after the corps re-opened in 1983, Ethel was introduced to the Army by her grandmother at Aberdare before moving to Bromsgrove as a teenager. Very gifted musically, she led the
Commissioner Alistair Herring: Korea, Sat 21 Jul - Mon 23 Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina: Rwanda (Commissioning), Fri 3 Aug Mon 6 International Staff Songsters: South America East, Fri 20 Jul - Th 26; USA Eastern, Fri 27 Tu 31
THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: Sunbury Court (Territorial Music School), Sun 22 Jul
OFFICIAL GAZETTE
THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: The Hexagon, Reading (Territorial Music School final festival), Sat 28 Jul; London South-East (installation of divisional leaders), Sun 29; Star College, Cheltenham (SAFE School of Music and Drama), Fri 3 Aug
TERRITORIAL CERTIFICATE IN RECOGNITION OF EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE Rtd CSM George Brown, Portsmouth Citadel. ANDRÉ COX Commissioner, Territorial Commander
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21 July 2012 SALVATIONIST
UK Territory
singing group for many years and was over60 club secretary. Ethel had a very real War Cry pub ministry; she took time to talk to people of all ages and listen to their problems, and was often asked to sing. In later years active involvement became prayerful support. Full of grace and wisdom, Ethel is remembered for her lovely smile, great sense of humour and kind Christian caring. Her three sons – David, John and Peter – miss her greatly. – S. K. ERIC NORMAN, WARRINGTON BORN into a Salvationist family at Warrington on Easter Monday 1933, Eric asked Jesus into his life as a young child and became a committed Christian and Salvationist. He played in Army bands for 62 years. He met his wife Shirley at the Army, but it wasn’t until Eric joined the Navy and, by chance, they met up again in Plymouth that romance blossomed. Their first home was in Plymouth. The family later lived in London for six years while Eric worked for the Army’s Assurance Society. Returning to Warrington, he became a valued corps member and a faithful witness for the Lord. He is greatly missed by his wife, three daughters, six grandchildren, one greatgrandchild, and the many people whose lives he touched. – P. F. RETIRED SONGSTER LEADER ALAN BARRY, GAINSBOROUGH BORN into a Salvationist family at Rossington, where he lived all his life, Alan became a successful master butcher with his own business. He was a highly respected music leader at Rossington, singing company leader at Doncaster and spent 30 years as songster leader at Gainsborough. This included a period of extra responsibility for the band. Presentation, planning and high standards of music-making were hallmarks of Alan’s leadership. His catering skills were much utilised by arranging many corps dinners and barbecues. During the past 11 months Alan fought a difficult battle against cancer. He is greatly missed for his leadership, encouragement and dedication. A true family man, he leaves his wife, Irene, and daughters, Katie and Sarah. – A. H.
PLEASE note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.
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SALVATIONIST 21 JULY 2012
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RESOURCE OF THE WEEK Major Philippa Smale (Germany and Lithuania) reviews the 50th edition of Link, the video magazine of The Salvation Army To celebrate the 50th edition of Link, presenters Bill Hamilton and Captain Kerry Coke look back on some of the highlights from the 13 years of the magazine’s existence. In Link Around The World, they remind viewers of some of the countries Link has visited in its mission to show people the work of The Salvation Army worldwide. In Link Makes A Difference, Bill and Kerry look at how the magazine helped provide pigs for Haitians and assisted in keeping a rehabilitation centre for addicts open. Captains Gordon and Kate Cotterill, now on the staff of William Booth College, remember their work at the oldest Salvation Army corps in the world – Poplar. Their ministry in that area of London was featured in an early edition of Link and they talk about how what happened there has shaped their thinking and their teaching. Major Anne Read visits the newly refurbished William Booth College and reflects on how important it is to actively remember God’s faithfulness. Bill then revisits Booth House Lifehouse in Swindon to discover what happened to The Sandwich People, a project featured a few years ago. The sandwich-making is still going strong – with a new team – and there is also a new business venture that repairs bicycles. To celebrate the last in the present series of Did I Ever Tell You..?, Bill looks back on his life as a TV journalist and football referee. After 11 years, Link returns to Kilbirnie to the Army’s centre for adults with learning disabilities and discovers that it is flourishing, with the café now a very popular venue for people in
search of a good meal in comfortable and welcoming surroundings. To round off this very special edition, Bill and Kerry look back on some of the music featured in Link over the years. They also introduce the new presenters for the new Link – Esther Shephard and Lieutenant Mark Cotterill. Q Link – The Salvation Army’s video magazine, is available in DVD or VHS format, priced £10 per issue or £30 by subscription for four issues from the Video Production Unit, THQ. Email vpu@salvationarmy.org.uk or telephone 020 7367 4975 to subscribe
BIBLE VERSES The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. (Psalm 23: 1–3 New International Version)
PRAYER Dear Lord, sometimes we are worried by the changes we have to face. Taking a path that leads into the unknown can be frightening. But we thank you that you are always with us and your strength is always available to us. Amen.
SONG The King of love my shepherd is, Whose goodness faileth never; I nothing lack if I am his And he is mine for ever.
PICTURE OF THE WEEK
The Himalayas from Khumbu Glacier Valley, Nepal. Picture: ROBERT HARVEY
(Henry Williams Baker, SASB 53)