Salvationist 21 sep 2013

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 21 September 2013 // No. 1416 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Pages 12 & 13

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

12.

4.

PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and From the archives 5. – 9.

NEWS IHQ // SATCoL // Ireland // Bootle // Alrewas // Sleaford // Stornoway // Tunbridge Wells // Maidenhead // Glasgow // Boston // Letchworth // Skegness // Ruislip // Verwood // Cwm // Exeter Temple // Swansea // Heckmondwike // Cumbernauld // Aberdeen Citadel // Merthyr Tydfil // Whatfield // Tiverton // Petersfield // Sheffield // Lavenham // Shipley // Ipswich // Bellshill // THQ // Potton // Scarborough // 8.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10.

Spring Harvest update

8.

FEATURE

11.

MISSION MEANS...

Answering the call 12. & 13.

FEATURE Finding ourselves fit for mission 14.

Celebrating Christmas

FEATURE

7.

15.

BIBLE STUDY The brokenness of creation 16. & 17. NEW COMMITMENTS 18.

LETTERS

19. 22. & 23.

ADVERTS

20. & 21.

24.

ANNOUNCEMENTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated 2

Salvationist 21 September 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

WHAT MATTERS MOST? THE Countess of Carnarvon, whose home, Highclere Castle, is the film location for Downton Abbey, has expressed concern about incorrect place settings at the dinner table in the TV series soon to be screened. She tried to inform the production team who failed to act on her advice and apparently she has now given up. However, filming continues generating income for the estate.

Part of the attraction of period dramas like Downton Abbey is that viewers are translated to a way of life now long gone. As the world changed, large stately homes had to adapt or decline. The survivors have been those who faced up to what was happening and did something about it.

The Salvation Army has also had to move with the times, but some people still long for the way things once were rather like the countess and the place settings. In reality there’s no going back. What really matters in a changing world is that we continue to be relevant without losing our essential identity and purpose.

Almost a year ago, General André Cox – a commissioner at the time and our territorial commander – introduced Fit for Mission. He was concerned that, as a territory, we were not effective in our core mission of winning souls. He challenged us to consider the fitness of The Salvation Army to ‘save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity’ and, through sound evaluation, to gain a clearer picture of the way things are. Plenty of information has already been gathered and there’s still more to come. It is not the first

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Captain Andrew Stone – (tel) 020 7367 4892 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Archie Bagnall – (tel) 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881

time that this sort of thing has happened and will probably not be the last. Perhaps the main difference today is that technology enables a far wider involvement than ever before through consultation and sharing of information.

When the TC introduced Fit for Mission he invited us to pray for the process, to get involved and to contribute towards shaping the way forward. He urged us to share our concerns, comments, suggestions and hopes for the future of the territory.

Although Fit for Mission was already in progress when Commissioner Clive Adams was appointed as TC, he picked up where his predecessor left off. On pages 12 and 13 he writes for us in his engaging style and speaks about rediscovering our Salvation Army and connecting meaningfully with the world we have been commissioned to serve and win for Jesus. He sets out mission priorities with prayer as the foundation.

Thou hast called me from the byway To proclaim thy wondrous love; Thou has placed me on the highway That to all men I may prove There is mission in my living, There is meaning in my word; Saviour, in my daily living, May this message yet be heard.

(SASB 463)

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4895 (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 DIGITAL SALVATIONIST Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline

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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 Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © André Cox, General of The Salvation Army, 2013. 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.

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 21 September 2013

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PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS DO NOT FAN THE FLAMES OF WAR, CHURCHES URGE

Churches around the world are ‘profoundly concerned’ both about the use of chemical weapons in Syria and the prospect of retaliatory attacks, according to the general secretary of the World Council of Churches.

The Rev Dr Olav Fykse Tveit wrote an open letter to the UN Security Council against the background of sharp divisions between countries regarding military action…

Dr Tveit said: ‘While condemning all use of chemical weapons, we must do everything possible to starve the fire of war rather than feeding it with further deadly armaments.’

In his letter… he said: ‘An attack from outside Syria is likely to increase suffering and the risk of more sectarian violence, threatening every community in the nation, including Christians.

‘At this crucial time, the people of Syria and the Middle East need peace and not war. Weapons or military actions cannot bring about peace in Syria.’

He urged Russia and the US to reach an agreement about their contributions to a political process and warned that unilateral action without UN backing would be illegal.

Methodist Recorder

NEW REPORT HIGHLIGHTS MODERN POVERTY More children are now living in poverty than in the 1960s, a damning new report revealed…

The National Children’s Bureau carried out research that found 3.6 million children are living in relative poverty, compared to 2 million by the end of the 1960s.

The study warned that Britain is at risk of becoming a place where ‘children’s lives are so polarised that rich and poor live in separate parallel worlds’…

Data collected was compared to the 1969 report called Born To Fail.

Commenting on the new research, published… in a study named Greater Expectations, chief executive of The Children’s Society, Matthew Reed said: ‘Britain has made huge progress over the last 50 years, but this important report reminds us that the economic inequality that existed in the 1960s persists today.

‘And children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds remain less likely to have a healthy childhood and an education that allows them to get on in life.’......................................................................

The Church of England Newspaper

ATHEISTS ARE WINNING WAR WITH FAITH, SAYS DAWKINS

Atheists are winning the war against religion, [according to] Richard Dawkins…

Professor Dawkins said that he did not believe that religion was of any moral value. ‘But I do believe it has had, historically, artistic value’…

He said that while he had some sympathy for the Anglican Church and enjoyed reading the Bible, that was as far as it went. He would like his legacy to consist of being known as a ‘lover of truth’, and as ‘a believer in the possibility of discovering objective truth by scientific research’…

He had no desire to destroy hope and accepted that people found hope in religion, but the fact that faith could give people hope did not make it true.

‘I think on the whole we are winning,’ he said. ‘We are all moving in the same direction. I get the feeling more and more that religion is being left behind.’.........

The Times

FROM THE ARCHIVES – TEN YEARS ON Some like it hot!

AS well as being a fabulous party trick, fire-eating has proved to be something of a guaranteed crowd-puller at open-air meetings for Southsea corps officer Major Mandy White.

The major caused a huge amount of interest as she demonstrated her special skill while four bandsmen acted as a windbreak.

Perhaps a course in fire-eating proficiency would be a valuable addition to the officer training curriculum!

News in ‘Salvationist’ dated 13 September 2003

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Salvationist 21 September 2013

NEWS The General calls Salvationists to pray for peace in Syria IHQ SINCE its early days, The Salvation Army has responded to crises caused by natural disaster, famine and war, writes General André Cox. I am calling upon Salvationists worldwide to pray for peace in Syria and grace and wisdom for elected officials the world over who are adjudicating on how to manage the tremendous humanitarian crisis that has enveloped the region.

Syria was the focus of the Worldwide Prayer Meeting on Thursday 12 September.

A news item on the United Nations website www.un.org reports: ‘With an estimated 5,000 desperate Syrians fleeing their homes every day, the spiralling violence in the country has now created more than two million refugees. As of the end of August, the number of Syrians registered as refugees or pending registration was 110,000 in Egypt, 168,000 in Iraq, 515,000 in Jordan, 716,000 in Lebanon and 460,000 in Turkey. Over half of them are children under 17 years of age. The refugee crisis has placed an overwhelming burden on the host countries’ infrastructures, economies and societies, and with an average of almost 5,000 Syrians fleeing into these countries every day, the need for international support has reached a critical stage.’

The Salvation Army has been invited to participate in and support the humanitarian effort in Jordan. Officials from IHQ are actively working in partnership with other non-governmental organisation representatives and a Salvation Army team is soon to depart for the region.

As world leader of The Salvation Army, I believe it is our Christian duty to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Jordan both practically and prayerfully.

Please join me and Commissioner Silvia as together we pray

for peace. I invite Salvationists around the world to unite in prayer (visit http://sar.my/syria).

Please pray for peace, wisdom and grace for our leaders and those responding to the humanitarian crisis in Jordan.

Thank you for your support of this special request.

Record profits announced SATCOL SALVATION Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) giftaided £9.6million to the territory following record profits for the year ending March 2013.

SATCoL, which includes subsidiary divisions in the form of SP&S, British Bandsman, R. Smith and Company and World of Sound, also saw overall sales income grow by 6 per cent compared with the previous year and overall profits rise from £10.14m to £11.13m.

These figures come just one year after SATCoL’s acquisition of its previous recycling partner, Kettering Textiles Ltd (KT).

Managing Director Trevor Caffull comments: ‘This was a particularly pleasing result and a strong justification of the decision to acquire KT.’ Strong trading in the group through its clothing collection operations and its charity shop chain had resulted from ongoing expansion.

In presenting the gift-aid cheque to Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive

New website, Facebook and Twitter presence for General André Cox IHQ GENERAL André Cox has created a significant online presence with the launch of a new website and social media accounts.

His website – www.salvation army.org/thegeneral – will provide up-to-date news about official engagements, as well as reports and photos from his visits to Salvation Army initiatives in the 126 countries where the Army flag flies. The Worldwide Prayer Meeting, held every Thursday, continues to be an important part of the General’s site, and Salvationists and friends are encouraged to contribute their own prayers for the Army’s global mission.

The General’s website is supported by a Twitter account (@GeneralAndreCox) and – for the first time – a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ GeneralAndreCox).

Adams, Trevor commented that Salvationists are encouraged SATCoL employees and volunto follow the General online and teers felt an immense sense of to share with a wide audience privilege in helping the Army’s the Scriptures, reflections and work. Responding, Commisupdates he posts. The website, sioner Adams commended the Twitter account and Facebook SATCoL board of directors and page will give Salvationists and staff for another outstanding friends around the world the financial result and thanked all opportunity to know what the concerned for their dedicated General is doing and to support efforts. him and Commissioner Silvia The SATCoL board of direcCox (World President of tors are pictured presenting the Women’s Ministries) through cheque to the Territorial specific, targeted prayer. – A. R. Commander. – A. R.

Advisory board members appointed MBE IRELAND NORTHERN Ireland Advisory Board members Lady Elizabeth Bloomfield and Paul Clark have been appointed MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for their work in the community. Lady Bloomfield, who was chairman from 1997-2004 has served on the advisory board for 24 years and founded the Friends of The

Salvation Army. Among her involvement in many charitable causes she is an advocate of the Army in Northern Ireland.

Mr Clark, who is a journalist, president of Northern Ireland Hospice Care and Northern Ireland ambassador for Unicef UK has served on the advisory board for 20 years. – E. H.

Salvationist 21 September 2013

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NEWS Young people lead meetings BOOTLE JUNIOR soldiers led the YP anniversary meetings, choosing the songs, prayers, sermons and a drama presentation. Zak Margetts, Amy Dickinson, Leandra and Lysandra Gadzikwa all participated and performed the sketch ‘I’m The Best’.

In response to the sermon, based on Psalm 109, Joyce Sapahla sang ‘They That Wait Upon The Lord Shall Renew Their Strength’. Corps officers Captain Jonathan and Lieutenant Sam Hamilton presented the children with their prizes. – J. H. ALREWAS: West Midlands Fellowship Band visited the National Memorial Arboretum to support COFEPOW, an organisation for prisoners of war and their dependants in the Far East. After a remembrance service the band presented a varied programme including ‘Star Lake’, ‘Jubilee Day’ and ‘Jesus Bids Us Shine’. – D. B.

Singer Ricky Valance leads a The Central Band of the Royal Air Force presents a concert

music evening at Skegness,

organised by Maidenhead Corps; £1,809 was raised for

describing how God led him

Alzheimer’s Dementia Support and the RAF Music Charity Trust

through good and bad times

RUISLIP: Parent-and-toddler group members from Hayes Community Outreach Project and Hillingdon and Uxbridge Corps enjoyed some time together in the sun for a picnic and games afternoon at Ruislip Lido. – C. M.

Scotland Fellowship Band provides a lunchtime programme to more than 1,000 people at Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow

VERWOOD: The corps hosted a stall at the Rotarians’ annual rustic fayre. Hundreds of people attended the event. New corps officers Captains Eka and Gia Salarishvili and their family introduced themselves to members of the community. – M. R.

SLEAFORD: The band provided music for the annual songs of praise on the green at St Andrew’s church. The bandmaster led the meeting and corps officer Captain Margaret Gargett gave the Bible message. – N. M. STORNOWAY: Divisional leaders Majors Denis and Olive Lomax attended the Saturday evening 30th corps anniversary meal and led a songs of praise meeting. More than 60 people with various links to the corps attended. – M. S. TUNBRIDGE WELLS: The YP band participated in the monthly Music at the Wells event. The young people delivered a varied programme, which included ‘Star Lake’, ‘Farondole’ and ‘Stand Up For Jesus’. Cornet, piano and euphonium solos and a vocal duet were well received by a large congregation. – B. E. 6

Cwm Male Voice Choir presents a concert at Boston Band celebrates Musical Sunday at

Abertillery raising more than £200 for The

Skegness with an open-air concert at

Salvation Army and the cardiology services at

Compass Gardens Bandstand

Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham

Exeter Temple corps officer Major Alan Young presents Margaret Vincent with a certificate recognising 60 Letchworth corps officer Major Barrie Sampson

years’ faithful

presents Jacky Clayden with a certificate of

service as a

appreciation for 20 years’ service as YPSM

songster

Salvationist 21 September 2013

NEWS

Halifax bank managers leave behind their day jobs to spend a day at Heckmondwike painting, planting, laying a patio, chopping down trees and weeding; this was part of their Day To Make A Difference community programme

New multi-faith facilities dedicated GLASGOW AIRPORT chaplain Commissioner Keith Banks led a dedication meeting for the new multifaith prayer room at Glasgow Airport.

Commissioner Banks offered a prayer of dedication and

Managing Director Amanda McMillan officially opened the new facility; she spoke warmly of the value of chaplaincy within the airport community and referred to the prayer room as being ‘the heart’ of the airport.

Rabbi Mendel Jacobs attended and read from Psalm 84 and Matt Ramsay (Govan) contributed two vocal solos, ‘You Raise Me Up’ and ‘How Great Thou Art’. – K. B.

Swansea corps officer Major Stephen Westwood receives a donation for £200 from Yorkshire Building Society branch manager Lynne Couch; the money was raised by the building society and

Aberdeen charity shop volunteers attend a celebration service

its customers for work in the

where they received certificates of appreciation; 76 volunteering

community

roles were recognised during the meeting

MERTHYR TYDFIL: Lieutenants Zoe and Graeme Smith (Dartford) led the community weekend. On Saturday, more than 200 people participated in the community fun day and enjoyed a bouncy castle, face and nailpainting, various crafts stalls and a barbecue. A café church meeting on Sunday was followed by evening worship with the songsters and fellowship band. – L. B.

Former corps officers Majors Ann and Donald Montgomery (Northern DHQ) cut the anniversary cake to celebrate 42 years of mission and ministry in Cumbernauld;

Young people at Glasgow City Centre explore the story of

celebrations began on

Zacchaeus through crafts and activities at Messy Church; more

Saturday with a family fun

than 64 people attended the session and then took part in a

day

celebration meal where they learnt the full story of Zacchaeus

WHATFIELD: Divisional Commander Major David Jackson led Harvest celebrations. A capacity congregation gathered at the village hall for the event, featuring music by Norton Band. – M. H. Salvationist 21 September 2013

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NEWS

All things bright and beautiful Thirty-six people gather in the sunshine for Tiverton’s annual cream tea and songs of praise event; the tea was followed by an informal time of praise and worship

PETERSFIELD EARLIER this year, Maureen Dawson offered to brighten up

the hall with various plants – and won the Petersfield in Bloom 2013 competition! The idea not only brought transformation to the exterior of the corps, but also captured the attention of the public. Maureen is pictured with corps officer Captain Linda Read and the Cameo group. – R. F.

Going for gold at the Transplant Games

WEEK 30 Monday 23 September 1 Corinthians 13 – In ‘the love chapter’, Paul describes the greatest spiritual gift O vv4–7: think of the person who you are closest to – does your love for them match this definition?

O vv9–12: what do we ‘know in part’?

Tuesday 24 September 1 Corinthians 14 – Paul talks about various gifts and the need for orderly worship O vv1–25: the gifts of preaching and speaking in tongues – which is greater?

O Have you ever come across someone (or a group) who have elevated the gift of speaking in tongues?

O Is speaking in tongues wrong? If you speak in tongues is it helpful to you? What about others?

O What would your reaction be if someone started speaking in tongues during Sunday morning worship?

O v39: what would your expectations of the church leader be in such a situation?

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Salvationist 21 September 2013

Wednesday 25 September 1 Corinthians 15 – This chapter describes the importance of the Resurrection O vv12–19: how important is belief in the Resurrection to the rest of your faith?

O Try and imagine what life would be like if you didn’t believe in the Resurrection O vv51–53: ‘we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed’; what do you think this means?

Thursday 26 September 1 Corinthians 16 – Paul makes some personal requests and final greetings O v2: the collections were to be made in keeping with personal income – is your offering in keeping with your income? How do you know?

O v22: What do you make of this verse?

Friday 27 September 2 Corinthians 1 – Paul writes again to the Church in Corinth with a change of plans O v8: why do you think Paul wanted to inform the readers of his troubles?

O v11: do prayers cause God to act in ways that he wouldn’t otherwise?

SHEFFIELD NATASHA Rogers (Northampton East) won a gold medal in the British Transplant Games after competing for the first time since her heart and lungs transplant 12 years ago.

She won the gold medal in the cricket ball throwing event and participated in ten-pin bowling and a 3km mini-marathon. She was part of the Harefield team, one of 51 teams participating.

Children and adults of varying abilities participated in the games, but even those less abled showed much enthusiasm and determination and enjoyed taking part.

As a result of the games, 22,000 people joined the organ donor register. – N. R.

NEWS

Ipswich Citadel Band leads Aldeburgh carnival songs of praise, attended by holidaymakers, residents and councillors

Songs of praise at carnival LAVENHAM SALVATIONISTS and other musicians formed a brass band for a carnival songs of praise. A large congregation sang a variety of contemporary gospel songs and traditional hymns, introduced by members of the community.

The band was conducted by Bandmaster Paul Doswell (Bury St Edmunds). – G. A.

Bellshill Band and Singing Company conduct an open-air meeting in Ancaster Square, Callander, attracting a large crowd of holidaymakers and locals

Making a difference

New free schools magazine

SHIPLEY

THQ

SALVATIONISTS helped to make a difference in their community through an intensive week of community action.

At the launch, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe (pictured with corps officer Major Mike Harris and corps members Jack Gomersall and Sam Phillips) encouraged people to help those in need.

During the week, gardens were dug, walls painted, litter picked, shopping bags packed, café meals

THE Schools and Colleges Unit has launched a new magazine to inspire and encourage corps to develop links with schools. The free magazine includes articles about schools ministry, lesson plans, advice on linking with schools and information about new resources. To access the magazine online visit www. salvationarmy.org.uk/schools.

To order a printed copy or find out more about the support and resources the unit offers, email schools@salvationarmy.org.uk or phone 020 7367 4706. – R. K.

served, cars washed, moving crates unpacked, football played and

residential homes visited. Around 1,600 leaflets were distributed and 700 people directly contacted. The week ended with a family fun day.

– R. P.

Young people at Potton take part in a teddy bears’ picnic to fundraise for The Big Collection; a cream tea Laura Hancock, Adam Booth and Sam Barker are interviewed by

helped to raise £52 in total.

Scarborough corps officer Lieutenant Richard Weston on the

Both events attracted new

Sunday before they attend their new secondary school; they

people to the parent-and-

were presented with the book ‘Moving Up’ and the congregation

toddler group and home

prayed for them, and for all the young people returning to school

league Salvationist 21 September 2013

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FEATURE

SPRING HARVEST UPDATE Major Mark Herbert looks forward to the Army’s involvement in Spring Harvest WHEN delegates heard that Roots 2013, held in Doncaster, would be the last, many asked: ‘What happens next?’

Roots had always been so much more than just a conference. For many people it was a significant time set aside for worship, Bible study and fellowship.

Over the years its focus helped to inspire spiritual renewal and effective mission in The Salvation Army.

Roots had a very close relationship with Spring Harvest, with similar programmes, speakers and vision.

When the Spring Harvest leadership team heard that Roots was coming to an end, they invited The Salvation Army to join them at Minehead in 2014 from 9 to 14 April. We have accepted this invitation because we believe it creates a unique opportunity for Salvationists

from across the country to engage in all that Spring Harvest has to offer.

Spring Harvest is an interdenominational family festival held at Butlins resorts on multiple weeks over the Easter holiday period, with a focus on teaching, worship and fellowship. There are programmes for adults, youth and children which follow a shared theme. The event is supported by a prayer venue, bookshop and exhibition area, and includes sports activities and evening entertainment.

All the events are held on Butlins’ site, a safe, friendly environment where parents know their children will be safe to play and where everyone can relax and enjoy all that the site and the programme have to offer. There is a

range of sports activities, a fantastic fun pool and a funfair at no extra cost.

With the seaside town of Minehead nearby, there is opportunity to relax and be refreshed.

We plan to join in all the elements of Spring Harvest 2014 themed ‘Unbelievable’. We will not be running a separate programme, although we hope that there will be daily opportunities for Salvationists to meet together. We will be contributing to the programme, suggesting speakers, running seminars, holding receptions and having a key presence in the exhibition area.

The booking arrangements for the event are all managed by Spring Harvest. You can book online at www.springharvest.org or call 0845 070 4743.

MAJOR MARK HERBERT IS TERRITORIAL EVANGELISM SECRETARY

Are you planning to be at Spring Harvest 2014?

Salvationists from across the UK are invited to a Salvation Army break at Spring Harvest next year. Join us for an all-age family festival of teaching and worship O Salvation Army

Speakers

O Daily meeting point for Salvationists

MINEHEAD 9-14 APRIL 2014 Book online at www.springharvest.org or call 0845 070 4743

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Salvationist 21 September 2013

FEATURE

ANSWERING THE CALL Chick Yuill continues a six-part series entitled Mission Means...

THESE days – especially in conversation with people who have little knowledge of the gospel – I am reluctant to describe myself as ‘a Christian’ and leave it at that. Don’t misunderstand me.

It’s not that I’m ashamed of my faith or unwilling to share it with others.

It’s simply that often the person with whom I’m speaking has so many confused ideas as to what a Christian is that it can take an hour to sort out their misconceptions! So, I say something like: ‘I’m an imperfect but passionate follower of Jesus.’ And that usually leads to a much more productive conversation.

But there’s another more important reason for my reluctance. It’s highly significant that the word ‘Christian’ appears only three times in the entire New Testament. We learn in Acts 11:26 that it was at Antioch that the believers were first called ‘Christians’, in all probability a derogatory term, meaning something like, ‘these Christ people’. We hear it again from the lips of King Agrippa in Acts 26:28 when he cynically asks Paul: ‘Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?’ And it occurs just one more time in 1 Peter 4:16 when he tells his readers not to be ashamed if they suffer ‘as a Christian’.

I’m not suggesting that we should abandon the word ‘Christian’ entirely.

That would be foolish, not to say impossible. The point I’m making is this: in the four Gospels and in the Acts of the Apostles, ‘Christian’ is not the characteristic word used to describe the followers of Jesus. Instead, it is ‘disciple’ – a word that actually appears 250 times in the New Testament.

It means ‘a learner’ or ‘a pupil’ or,

more accurately, ‘an apprentice’; someone who is not simply learning facts, but who is learning by doing – learning a way of life. In Acts it is used alongside another illuminating collective term to describe the early Christians: ‘followers of the Way’.

What we are being given is a picture of a small but rapidly growing band of men and women who not only believed that Jesus was the Son of God who had died for them and been raised from the dead, but also who based their way of life on his example and who sought to live and behave like he had lived and behaved.

They were seen by the authorities of the day not as a quaint group of people who had embraced a new religion, but as a dangerous company of passionate followers who had engaged with a radical new way of life and who were empowered by an energy that was difficult to explain and impossible to extinguish.

To understand what being a disciple means, it’s important to recognise two things. First, the concept of discipleship didn’t begin with Jesus. If you had walked the dusty roads of first-century Palestine, you would have seen more than a few Jewish rabbis (rabbi is just a term of respect for a teacher who was skilled in understanding and teaching Scripture) walking along followed by their disciples, who would be listening to their teaching and learning their way of life. They even had a neat phrase to describe just how closely the disciple followed and observed his rabbi: ‘Cover yourself in the dust from your rabbi’s feet.’

Discipleship was learning life from a

teacher who understood deeply the way God wants us to live.

The second important thing to know is that becoming a disciple was a privilege available to a relatively few gifted young men. They would apply to the rabbi of their choice and he would accept them only if he thought they had the potential to emulate him and become rabbis themselves one day.

Other young men went into the family business and got on with the task of earning a living. But Jesus turned that prevailing culture on its head. At the beginning of Mark’s Gospel we witness him walking by the Sea of Galilee, announcing the good news that the reign of God has broken through, and calling Simon Peter and his brother Andrew, and James and his brother John to be his disciples. He calls them to walk with him, to know him, to grow like him.

That’s the truth that rings through the Gospels and Acts, and through the centuries of church history. As the good news about Jesus is declared, men and women answer his call and become his disciples. We, in our generation, need to do no less than that.

CHICK IS A FREELANCE WRITER AND SPEAKER Salvationist 21 September 2013

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FEATURE

Finding ourselves fit for mission

by Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams

I

READ an amusing exchange between a mother and her son, recounted on Facebook the other day. The mother is an ‘OK’ (child of a Salvation Army officer, aka ‘officer’s kid’) and, as is the wont of most parents, she had described her childhood to her son over the years.

These descriptions would have included her parents’ appointments criss-crossing the Army world (they have had international experience as well as many appointments in their homeland): Son: ‘Mamma, who are your best friends?’

Mom: (Gives thoughtful list, with explanations about how different friends present different gifts) Son: ‘…And?’ Mom: ‘And, Carol (Mom’s sister)’ Son: ‘Carol? But she’s your family!’

Pause…

Son: ‘Can family be your best friends too?’

Mom: ‘Um, j-jaaa (yes), if you want them to.’

Son: ‘Even the mad ones?’

Mom: ‘Um, well yes...’

Son: ‘Like Granny! I mean, you have to be mad if you travel all over the world just to find your church.

If I were her, I would’ve just chosen another church! Who even does that?!’

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Salvationist 21 September 2013

Now I’ve heard of people travelling huge distances to ‘find themselves’ (like the Beatles travelling to India!), but doing so to ‘find their church’ is a new phenomenon! Or, is it?

If ‘finding your church’ has more to do with feelings of connection and contentment than the efficiency of one’s satnav system, then I would have to acknowledge that this is nothing new! There are serial ‘pastorsurfers’ (aka ‘pew-surfers’) who will never find their perfect church because it exists only in their imaginations.

There are others whose changing circumstances result in the legitimate need to leave one church and find another. Whatever the reason, there always will be people who are trying to find their church – a spiritual home where they can belong.

But, like ‘finding one’s self’ is understood to refer to a process of self-discovery, I suppose finding your church could apply to the idea of seeking answers to the perennial questions: Who do we think we are? and What do we think we’re doing?

There may well be many who feel that, after almost 150 years of existence, we should know who we are and what we should be doing; that we should stop wasting resources on discussing our sense of identity and mission.

You would have my sympathy if you felt that!

I understand those who become impatient with all this self-examination; constant navel-gazing is neither inspiring nor helpful. But, while I do not subscribe to the notion of change for the sake of changing – ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ – I do believe that an unexamined life leads to an unproductive existence.

Frank Gelett Burgess is reported to have said: ‘If in the last few years you haven’t discarded a major opinion or acquired a new one, check your pulse.

You may be dead.’

If we exchange the word ‘opinion’ for ‘procedure’, ‘programme’ or ‘practice’, it becomes an interesting premise to contemplate in the context of examining our effectiveness as missioners.

In the past 12 months or so, territorial leadership has been doing just that – engaging in an exercise of self-evaluation.

In a sense, we have been finding – rediscovering – our Salvation Army, and this examination has been about O reaffirming our mission as the Body of Christ in our world O restating our mandate to meet the needs of our world O reassessing the way we do mission in the context of our world We confirm that our missional objective has not changed – the making of disciples of Jesus, God’s sole, lifetransforming solution for the whole being, through our work of saving souls growing

saints and serving suffering humanity.

The question is whether we are maximising our efforts; whether we truly are connecting meaningfully with the world we have been commissioned to serve and win for Jesus; whether we are able to ‘serve the present age’. ‘New occasions teach new duties, time makes ancient good uncouth…’ wrote James Russell Lowell. The good practices, procedures, programmes, etc, of yesterday may not be as good (effective and/or efficient) today, is what Lowell argues. Have we kept apace with the changes in our society in order to maintain our relevance and our effectiveness? Fit for Mission (F4M) was conceived as a response to this process of self-examination, and its ethos can be summed up in the following question: Are we fit – ie equipped, geared, organised, prepared, ready, efficient, effective, structured – for the fulfilling of the mission of The Salvation Army today?

As a process seeking to answer that question, F4M has been operational for several months, and after much consultation, seminars, interviews, and amid ongoing workshops and datacollating, a team under the leadership of Lieut-Colonel Alan Burns continues to work towards preparing a final report that will make concrete proposals as to how the territory can be better equipped and shaped to fulfil our mission. There is and will be opportunity to speak to F4M-thinking through a specially designated website, as well as through

correspondence and email. The F4M office will distribute contact details for such interaction.

One of the key elements of this process is the identification of the mission priorities the territory will have for our day. It is only as we hold our missional objectives before us that we can be intentional about aligning ourselves to that mission.

In consultation with leaders across the territory, we are finalising a list of specific areas of mission that we believe this territory should be prioritising in the context and complexities of the world of the 21st century.

To be fit for mission means that we must be fit to grow, fit to share and fit to serve. Therefore, our mission priorities will focus on O prayer as being foundational to all we are and do; spiritual and numerical growth, and the stronger and more intentional integration of our many and varied ministries O equipping our people to share the story of Jesus; encouraging corps and centres to engage in sharing the gospel in their communities through strategic mission-planning and seeking opportunities to plant corps in various expressions O discipleship training and living; promoting soldiership as a real expression of radical discipleship in our day and concentrating our efforts to reach and engage youth and children

O developing

mission focus groups to facilitate sharing the story of Jesus and teaching the life of Jesus; looking at Recovery Church as a missional opportunity and developing strategies to strengthen and resource our social services and community outreach.

These priorities will be unpacked and explored by the territory so that, together, we can embrace and engage with a clearly defined and formulated mission strategy. As we corporately examine our fitness for mission, I appeal to all Salvationists – soldiers, local officers, officers, adherent members – to rededicate ourselves afresh and, individually, allow ourselves to be made ‘fit for mission’ too.

Equip for joyful service, Arm us with holy might, Give victory in temptation And courage for the fight.

(SASB 870) May it be so! May this territory find itself fit for mission in the 21st century as we have been in the two centuries before.

Salvationist Salvationist 21 September 17 August 2013

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FEATURE

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS Vivienne Whitaker offers a glimpse of plans that are being made for Celebrating Christmas THE Christmas carol concert at the Royal Albert Hall is an annual event arranged by the THQ Marketing and Fundraising Department together with supporters of The Salvation Army from the arts world, who freely give their expertise to the event. A broad cross-section of people attends, including Salvationists and people whose only link with the Army is the carol concert. Some have commented that this annual event kick-starts their Christmas.

West End theatre director Graham Hubbard will assist in directing the programme. Theatre designer Richard Jones, who presently works on Dancing On Ice, will be responsible for designing the set.

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The wonderful message of the traditional Nativity will give a powerful focus to this whole evening which will include drama, readings by renowned celebrities who support The Salvation Army, the International Staff Songsters and Regent Hall Band. Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Marion Drew, THQ, will steer the programme through and Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams will bring the message.

For the first time the carol concert will be on a Monday evening.

It may be that, as the Christmas season approaches, some people will consider spending an extended weekend in London. All proceeds

from this event will support The Salvation Army, however, its key purpose is to share the true message of Christmas.

O Tickets are available from the Royal Albert Hall box office.

Call 020 7589 8212 or visit www.royalalberthall.com

VIVIENNE IS MARKETING RESOURCES MANAGER, THQ

BIBLE STUDY

The brokenness of creation A study for the Harvest season by Lieutenant Xander Coleman

I

HAVE a confession. Secretly, I’m a climate-change sceptic. I do all the things I’m supposed to do. I diligently separate my recycling, use energysaving light bulbs and even drive a super-efficient hybrid car – bright, lime green, to tell the whole world that I’m a ‘greeny’. But, secretly, there’s a little part in me that wonders if all that bother is really worth it. Does it really make a difference?

Unfortunately, the science is pretty concrete that the earth’s climate is changing and human pollution is the cause. Moreover, as a Christian trying to honour God, Scripture is pretty clear about what my responsibility is in light of the evidence. To understand this, we need to go back to the beginning.

IT’S ALL GOD’S God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1). Our starting point for understanding the environment is this – God made it, and it’s his: ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it’ (Psalm 24:1).

We live as one part of the created order, albeit the pinnacle of creation (Psalm 8:3–5).

OUR ROLE AS STEWARDS OF GOD’S WORLD In Eden, God’s instruction to humanity was to ‘rule over’ (Genesis 1:26) and ‘subdue’ (v28) creation – in fact, this is the reason God gives for creating people in his own image (v26).

The Psalms also recognise this special role we play in creation: ‘You have made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet’ (8:6); ‘The highest heavens

belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to the human race’ (115:16).

Scripture reveals us as sovereign over our domain, rulers over the created order, with a mandate to impact the earth – representing God’s authority to subordinate creation.

But often we misunderstand what that means. This word ‘rule’ in Genesis 1:26 implies lordship, but not exploitation. Humans, as God’s representatives, rule over God’s subjects for their own good, not for their own interests.

We don’t own the world, we merely steward it. We are caretakers: ‘The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it’ (Genesis 2:15).

Those strong words ‘rule over’ and ‘subdue’ are tempered by this great responsibility to ‘take care’ of creation.

SIN BROKE CREATION The world is broken. We see the brokenness of humanity all around us and that the created order is not as it should be. Romans 8 describes the whole creation as being ‘subjected to frustration’ and ‘in bondage to decay’ (vv20 and 21). With the fall of humanity, all of creation is affected (Genesis 3).

‘The act of creation resulted from God’s good order triumphing over formless chaos… but sin tries to drag creation back into that chaos – sin uncreates’ (from Open Your Bible, a CLC publication).

God’s good creation has become infected with chaos, death, decay, scarcity and poverty. Broken humanity exercises broken authority over an already broken creation where

‘all creation is still groaning and is in pain’ (Romans 8:22 Contemporary English Version).

Resources are being depleted at unsustainable levels; waste and pollution are clogging up our air, waterways and landfills and now the climate is changing.

What’s most disturbing about climate change is that those most responsible (wealthy countries) are least affected and most resilient to the negative effects of it. Meanwhile, those least responsible (developing nations) have the most to lose from climate change.

Already vulnerable communities are being devastated by unpredictable weather affecting crops, rising sea levels ruining low-lying land and drought forcing people to use unsafe water.

SO WHAT? Our response as followers of Jesus must be compassion for the marginalised and vulnerable, and honouring God through faithful stewardship of his earth.

If human pollution caused the problem, human intervention can help solve it. The spiritual brokenness of creation will be solved when the children of God are revealed at Christ’s return (Romans 8:19).

This Harvest season, reflect on what you can change about the way you relate to the environment to make a difference to the lives of those affected by climate change. Light bulbs and recycling are just the beginning!

LIEUTENANT COLEMAN IS CORPS OFFICER, BANBURY Salvationist 21 September 2013

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NEW COMMITMENTS

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1. ROY BEYNON Soldier ST HELIER AFTER 20 years as an officer, Roy lost his faith and rejected any form of religion. About 40 years later, Roy returned and sought Christ.

After much prayer and support from corps folk, he was able to commit himself fully. Corps officer Lieutenant Stephen Scoulding enrolled Roy as the first soldier at the corps in six years. – L. W. 2. BRENDA MCGLYNN, JEAN TUNNEY, DIANE BRAWN Adherent members KEIGHLEY CORPS officer Major Kenny Gardner welcomed three new adherent members into the fellowship.

Brenda returned to the corps after her Salvationist sister visited from Australia.

Jean began volunteering at the weekly community programme and responded to an invitation to the monthly songs of praise. She soon started to attend regularly.

Diane would visit the corps when her aunt, an adherent member, visited her. After a while Diane realised that the corps was where God was calling her to be and decided to make it her spiritual home.

All three women testify to the warm and friendly welcome received and are actively involved in corps life. – K. G. 3. LAWRENCE LORAINE Soldier STOCKTON LAWRENCE returned to the Army after the death of his wife, with whom he had attended another church. When he moved to the area, 16

Salvationist 21 September 2013

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he got involved in the corps and decided to make a commitment as a soldier. – B. C. 4. STAN LEDGER, SUE LEDGER Adherent members GRIMSBY CORPS officer Captain Gerald Nicoll welcomed Stan and Sue as adherent members. Sue testified to the power of prayer and that she is striving to be an active Christian. Stan shared how he returned to the Army after a 13-year absence and immediately felt he had come home.

The couple volunteer at the Lifehouse. – G. N. 5. SOPHIE BROWN, EMILY LEWIS, MARI GRIFFITHS Junior soldiers MERTHYR TYDFIL CORPS officer Lieutenant Andrew Warriner enrolled Sophie, Emily and Mari as the first junior soldiers at the corps in 12 years. The girls testified to the importance of Jesus in their lives and how much they love him. – A. W. 6. & 7. PETA RAYNER Soldier JOEL WHITE Junior soldier NORTHAMPTON EAST PETA grew up at the Army and has been involved in various youth aspects of the corps. Her challenging testimony was a blessing to the congregation. Joel has also grown up at the Army and was excited to attend junior soldier classes. He is looking forward to joining the YP band. Joel is pictured with corps officer Captain Carl Huggins. – N. R.

8. ALEX SKINNER, ANDREW GENT, ELLA GEZI Adherent members RIPON THE corps welcomed three new adherent members to the fellowship.

Alex became involved with the corps through a job experience scheme and later started volunteering in the kitchen and parent-andtoddler club.

Andrew was introduced to the corps during his time as a parish councillor. He volunteers at the furniture project and youth club.

Ella returned to the Army after a few years away. When her shifts as a mental health nurse allow, Ella attends Sunday meetings and volunteers at the employment and resource centre. – P. C. 9. MARK BARLOW Soldier ALICIA BARLOW Junior soldier BIRKENHEAD FATHER and daughter Mark and Alicia share their birthday and wanted to share their enrolment too. In his testimony, Mark spoke about how precious his family is to him and how much he values being a part of the greater corps family. Alicia said that she loves God and going to church, where she has fun and meets lovely people. They were enrolled by corps officer Major Sheila Loman. – S. L. 10. ELSA JOSEPH, EMRIS BUCKLEY Soldiers CAMBERWELL CORPS officer Captain Karen Cardy enrolled mother and daughter Emris and Elsa as soldiers. They were looking for a church where they would be able to grow in their faith and started to attend the corps.

The welcome they received made them feel at home and confirmed to

them that it was where God wanted them to be. They are pictured with Captain Cardy and Elsa’s son David. – K. C. 11. RODNEY HICKS Soldier REDRUTH IN the presence of family and friends, Rodney was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Territorial Envoy Karen Thomas. Rodney returned to the Army after many years. He felt led to recommit his life to the Lord and testified to the love and support he received from corps folk. – K. T. 12. – 14. BEN WINTON Soldier CATHERINE WESTLAKE, REECE LEE, AIMEE LEE, SUSANNA RUTHERFORD, BEN COOK, Junior soldiers FELIXSTOWE BEN Winton had been considering senior soldiership for a number of years and felt God leading him to make a commitment. He spoke of the pressures and temptations of young adulthood and the power of God to help him stay true to the promises he was making.

Reece and Ben expressed their enjoyment of learning more about God through their classes.

Aimee is looking forward to singing about God in the singing company; Susanna and Catherine enjoy being part of God’s family.

– R. W. JEROME FOULGER, SAMUEL SHEARN Junior soldiers (not pictured) TUNBRIDGE WELLS DURING the YP annual weekend, proud family and friends witnessed the enrolment of Jerome and Samuel as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Lorna Smith. – C. W.

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LETTERS DON’T GO QUIETLY THE letter from Muriel Peacock (Salvationist 7 September) concerning corps closures, prompts me to write and ask that divisional headquarters advertise such closures in Salvationist.

Details of valedictory meetings would give the opportunity for people who have had an interest in a corps over the years to attend the meeting and give thanks to God. Over the years, my wife and I have been saddened to hear of corps we have been a part of, as soldiers or officers, closing without us having the opportunity to be reunited with the faithful ones remaining at such times.

Hemsworth is one such corps, Muriel Peacock being one of the dedicated local officers at the time when my wife and I were the team leaders. Along with Hemsworth, there was Kinsley and Cudworth, which have now closed, with just Royston remaining from the team.

Although we were fairly small in number, we had some good times with the people in the corps and the

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community. It would have been great to return and give God the glory for the years The Salvation Army was in these places.

God Bless those remaining faithful few at Hemsworth who now need to find another corps or church at which to worship.

Colin Edwin, Major, Lower Slaughter

EIGHT TIMBRELS AND A PIANO A BRIEF but heartfelt thank you to all who have rung me and sent tambourines for our new eight-piece timbrel group. I have enjoyed all my conversations with you and we have deeply appreciated your generosity.

Our debut as the Holmwood Timbrels is at the Harvest Supper on 28 September – and it will take the place by storm, as well as give expression to praising God for a leader who has missed playing for several years!

Also is there anyone out there who

would give a caring and reverential home to RSA’s old piano? It’s an upright Berry, needs a complete overhaul, case in good nick, all the old classics written on it (early Fifties to Eighties), marks of fingernails where Dad’s pencil has been in his mouth, manuscript on lap, feeling around the keys with his fingers.

We had rehomed it at Sunbury Court; now it is back in my home near Dorking.

Please ring me – 01306 889118.

Barbara Steadman-Allen, Dorking

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Salvationist 21 September 2013

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE The following appointment has been announced by the General: Effective 1 November: O Lieut-Colonels Nihal and Rohini Hettiarachchi (currently serving in Sri Lanka) to be Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries of that territory. They succeed Lieut-Colonels William and Debra Mockabee, who will be taking up appointments in their home territory of USA Southern LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED Siobhan Fraser, Leigh-on-Sea O CSM Marc Willetts, Adherent Sec Geraldine Wiltshire, Adherent Sec Malcolm Wiltshire, Staple Hill O SL

LONG-SERVICE AWARD O Bandsman Derek Griffin, Paignton (65 years) LOCAL OFFICERS RETIRED Mel Hawkins (after 31 years), CT Val Hawkins (after 26 years), both Maddiston

O BM

MARRIAGES Simpson to Sonja Jeffery at North Shields by Lieutenant Alexander Woods O Brian Callow to Bandswoman/ Songster Helen Ring at Douglas

by Captains Carolyn and Simon Clampton O David Kariþka to Renata Drapáková; Andrej Demeter to Ivana O Mark

Kanalošová, both at Armáda Spásy, Margate by Major David Blowers WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: O Philip and Lea Scott, Bristol Citadel and Andover, (28 September) O Rtd BM Fred and Edna Aplin, Teignmouth (3 October) O Rtd SL Terry and Songster Moira Nielson, Bristol Easton (3 October) Golden: O OSCS Selwyn and Brenda Faiers, Knottingley (28 September) O Majors Alan and Brenda Austin (5 October) O Maurice and Edna Cornwell (5 October); Mike and Veronica Haines (5 October) both Bristol Easton O Ray and S/Librarian Christine Hedley, Chester-le-Street (5 October) DEDICATED TO GOD Christian, son of Christian and Alison Goodrich, at Cheltenham Citadel, by Captain Steve Smith O Isla Poppy, daughter of Richard and Leanne Roberts, at Whitehaven by Majors Gillian and Hendrik Hoitinga O Ruth Evangeline, daughter of Tom and Katie Jones, at Regent Hall by Major Ray Brown O Chinazum, daughter of Chidinma Anaso and Chizuruoke, at Northampton East by Major Michelle Huggins O Harrison

BEREAVED Peter Clack, Ohio, USA Eastern, Ruth Dalton, Bristol Easton,

O Major

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL ANDRÉ COX AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga, Fri 20 Sep - Mon 23 O William Booth College (official welcome), Sun 29 O South America West, Tu 8 Oct - Mon 14 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O William Booth College (welcome to cadets), Sat Sun 29 Sep O William Booth College (welcome to General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox), Sun 29 O Swanwick (officers councils), Mon 14 Oct - Wed 30 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O William Booth College (welcome to cadets), Sat Sun 29 Sep O William Booth College (welcome to General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox), Sun 29 O Maldon, Sat Sun 6 Oct O Swanwick (officers councils), Mon 14 Oct - Wed 30 COMMISSIONER WILLIAM COCHRANE: O UK, Worthing, Sat Sun 22 Sep COMMISSIONER GILLIAN DOWNER: O East Timor, Fri 13 Sep - Mon 23 COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O UK, Regent Hall, Sun 22 Sep COMMISSIONERS LALZAMLOVA AND NEMKHANCHING: O India National Secretariat, Th 26 Sep - Mon 30 COMMISSIONER JOHN WAINWRIGHT: O Kenya East (Conference of African Leaders), Fri Sat 21 Sep O USA Southern (International Technical Exchange Conference), Mon 23 - Wed 25 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O Sunderland Millfield, Sat Sun 29 Sep

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David Clack, Gainsborough, and Tony Clack, Victor Harbor, Australia Southern, of their father Brigadier Edward Clack O Songster Margaret Fielding, Bolton Citadel, of her mother Mrs Aux-Captain Dorothy Pickering O Olive Charlton of her husband Robert, Songster Elizabeth Jones of her father, both Kirkcaldy O Songster Linda Tasker, Sleaford, of her husband Winston O Barry Poole and Madge Kirkup, both Consett, of their mother Elsie Poole O Rtd BM Ronald Ineson, Batley Castle, of his wife Muriel O Songster Betty Elliott of her husband Les, Gaynor Vane of her father, both Liverpool Walton RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Aux-Captain Joan Parker (80 on 30 September) PROMOTED TO GLORY Doreen Eland from Edinburgh on 9 September O BM John Wigham, Whitehaven O Ethel Jones, Bolton Citadel O Rtd OSCS Gwyneth Lewis, Maesteg O Rtd CSM Bob Adams, Sunderland Millfield O Robert Barkess Charlton, Kirkcaldy O Major

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UK Territory RETIREMENT FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 September: Major Raymond Ward out of Bradford Temple in 1977 and last appointment Macclesfield CLIVE ADAMS, Commissioner, Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES BRIGADIER EDWARD CLACK EDWARD CLACK was born in 1912 in Christchurch. He was songster leader before entering training as a cadet in the 1935 Liberators Session. After his commissioning, he walked to his first appointment at Westminster. Twenty further appointments –

spanning 42 years – followed, from Scotland in the north to Southampton in the south, Thetford in the east to Cardiff in the west.

He married Kathleen Hester – an ‘Awakener’ – in 1940 at High Wycombe and she became his companion and confidante. They served together until her promotion to Glory in 2003.

The brigadier’s great delight was in ministry: preaching, teaching and visitation. He was known for his holiness teaching and wise, confidential approach to some difficult situations – preferring to encourage, counsel and support, rather than punish, while still upholding his principles. He enjoyed conducting congregational singing, especially such songs as ‘Would You Know Why I Love Jesus?’

His carpentry skills proved useful, as he extended platforms, built risers for the songsters or made repairs in the quarters.

Retirement came in 1978 from Bristol Easton. The brigadier often said that a Christian never retires, and so it proved to be – he looked after Wellington Corps for two years and Weston-super-Mare for four months in 1987. His last years were spent at the Army’s Dewdown House Care Home in Weston-super-Mare, where he often led morning prayers and Sunday worship. His concern for the spiritual wellbeing of fellow residents was evident. He would often call local ministers to tell them that one of their congregation was a resident needing pastoral care.

His children – Ruth Dalton (Bristol Easton), Tony (Victor Harbour, Adelaide, Australia), David (Gainsborough) and Peter (a retired officer in Ohio, USA) – join the countless number of people who thank God for their introduction to Christ through the faithfulness of this godly man. – D. C.

EVA DAVIDSON, HULL ICEHOUSE PROMOTED to Glory at the age of 81, Eva was a lifelong Salvationist. Throughout her service she served in various roles – with the life-saving guards, as sunbeam leader, welcome sergeant, songster, YP treasurer and ladies’ fellowship leader. More recently Eva helped in the charity shop, where her unique sense of humour endeared her to many customers.

A full hall of family and friends at her service of thanksgiving showed how much she was loved. Eva’s faithful witness and influence are sadly missed. – C. D.

MRS JOAN ASHTON, LEEDS CENTRAL BORN in 1922, Joan was introduced to the Army through the Sunday school in Wombwell, South Yorkshire. A family move brought transfer to Stanningley in her teens, and – after marriage to Fred in 1944 – another to Outwood.

Finally settling at Rothwell, Joan spent the last 50 years at Leeds Central where she was greatly loved for her generous, caring nature, which personified the fruit of the Spirit. Her home was open to anyone.

Her practical work and love also extended to many people at the appointments of her officer-daughter.

During later years Joan refused to give in to painful illness, but showed personal interest in her nurses, carers and other patients.

– S. B.

SONGSTER RESERVIST MRS DORIS JACKSON, CARLISLE DORIS was born to Salvationist parents in 1914. She gave her heart to Jesus at an early age and served in the corps with her brothers and sister.

She married John in 1935 and they continued to serve together until his promotion to Glory in 1975.

Doris had a quiet nature and her Christian principles and Salvationist standards were evident throughout her life.

During her final years in a residential care home she was highly respected and loved.

She leaves three sons and is sadly missed by them and all who loved her. – C. S.

WINIFRED JONES, PAIGNTON BORN at Porth in 1924, Win was saved at the age of eight – greatly influenced by the Christian example of her grandparents and parents.

After she trained in the 1946 Warriors Session, Win’s officer appointments included Worksop, Exeter St Thomas, Newlyn, Ottery St Mary, Pensilva and NHQ. Health problems caused a withdrawal

from officership after corps ministry at Southall and Feltham.

Win moved into teaching at Ipswich in 1957. In 1967 she took an exchange to the USA, followed by similar posts in Australia and New Zealand.

In corps life she was primary sergeant and corps cadet guardian at Pontypool and YPSM at Ipswich and Paignton, where she was also recruiting sergeant, corps secretary and corps cadet guardian. Recent poor health prevented further service. – D. B.

MRS LILIAN CARTNER, NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE LILY was born in 1919 at Byker, where her mother attended the corps. She became a singing company member and life-saving guard and was awarded the Founder’s Merit of Honour.

A loyal soldier and songster, she married Alfie – a bandsman – in 1939 and had two sons, Trevor and Raymond.

After the family’s transfer to Newcastle City Temple in 1950, Lily dedicated herself to supporting them in their Army activities.

Essentially practical, this included washing the football strips for the youth club football team.

In later years Lily also found friendship at many luncheon clubs and Wallsend Home League. She remained steadfast and strong in faith, encouraging family and friends.

– B. I.

MRS MARGARET HILL, NUNEATON MARGARET is missed deeply by many people, especially her husband Jeff, with whom she shared 56 years, her family – who lovingly called her ‘the leader of the pack’ – and many friends.

Margaret had a living relationship with the Lord and this influenced her whole life and ministry. She loved to sing with the songsters, together with her daughter and granddaughter, and cared for younger family and corps members.

As over-60 club secretary, it was her aim to bring joy and the love of the Lord into the lives of club members.

Margaret was promoted to Glory after a long illness, during which she was a strong witness to God’s faithfulness. – C. V. Salvationist 21 September 2013

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Salvationist 21 September 2013

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

Tuesday

Thursday

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’ ( John 8:12)

O for the time of Christ’s completed mission!

Throbs of its rapture reach us as we pray; Gleams of its glory bursting on our vision Speed us to labour, urge us on our way.

Jesus shall conquer, lift up the strain!

Evil shall perish and righteousness shall reign.

(SASB 173)

Stretch out thy hand, O God, and let the nations Feel through thine host the thrill of life divine; Grant us, we pray, still greater revelations, Make of these days an everlasting sign.

Jesus shall conquer, lift up the strain!

Evil shall perish and righteousness shall reign.

(SASB 173)

Wednesday

Friday

And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith.

(Ephesians 2:6–8)

It is for power, O Lord, I plead; Power to meet my soul’s great need, Power to witness in your name, Power to set dull hearts aflame.

Your resurrection power to me, Lord, give That to your glory I might daily live.

Sunday Yet once again, by God’s abundant mercy, We join our song of thankfulness and praise; Ever the light of our redeemer’s victory Shineth before us in the world’s dark ways.

Jesus shall conquer, lift up the strain!

Evil shall perish and righteousness shall reign.

(SASB 173)

Monday ‘Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.’ ( John 17:24)

Praying around the world... France and Belgium French law requires the separation of Church and State, leading to a separation of spiritual and professional work. The Churches’ creed is ‘With God, with others, with oneself ’ and the Foundation has three aims: ‘To help, to accompany, to rebuild’. Pray that the Church and the Foundation will work effectively to help people in need.

Rapeseed oil field and Dutch barn. Picture: NORMAN LOCKYER