Salvationist 22 August 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1770 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 22 August 2020

Home music schooling

Territorial Music School 2020 PLUS

A WARM WELCOME AT NORTH WALSHAM

SEE PAGES 12 AND 13

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

REFUGEES TELL OF BRUTALITY AS PEOPLESMUGGLING ACROSS CHANNEL BOOMS Refugees have told of increasingly brutal tactics used by peoplesmugglers transporting thousands across the Channel in small boats, as calm seas and the Covid-19 pandemic create a boom in the trade.

The Home Office confirmed… that 6 August was a record day for small boat crossings, with 235 people identified… The Home Office has pledged to take tougher measures to halt these crossings.

The Guardian has heard testimonies of migrants being forced into boats at gunpoint or knifepoint and threatened with having their fingernails ripped out if they do not follow the orders of smugglers, who often use inflatable dinghies to transport their human cargo…

Growing numbers of unaccompanied children, usually teenagers, are reported to be among those trying to travel from France to the UK by sea, with more than 2,000 people said to have entered the country by this route in June…

MPs on the home affairs select committee have announced an inquiry into the rise in migrants crossing the Channel…

According to experts, a combination of... good weather, the coronavirus pandemic reducing the number of lorries stopping off in Calais and an absence of safe and legal routes... to reach the UK to claim asylum has led to the huge increase in the use of small boats.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES PRESS GOVERNMENT TO RAISE GIFT AID RATE

CHURCHES PUT THEIR FAITH IN FEWER PEWS

The Catholic Bishops of England and Wales along with leading Catholic organisations are calling for a higher rate of Gift Aid to be introduced.

Their request, made in an open letter to the culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, stressed that the change, which would provide charities with a cash boost, was urgently needed as lockdown measures are lifted.

Pointing to the difficult financial situation... the signatories… have requested an enhanced Gift Aid Scheme be introduced as soon as possible. With revenue falling and demand for services rising, the coronavirus pandemic was a ‘perfect storm’ for many charities…

Currently, Gift Aid allows charities to claim an extra 25p for every £1 donated, a decrease on a previous scheme... Although the letter does not stipulate a specific level of Gift Aid, it does reference a recent campaign by the Institute of Fundraising calling for the rate to increase to 33p.

Nearly 250 churches a year are applying to remove their Victorian pews, prompting disputes with heritage groups which complain of unnecessary destruction and parishioners who accuse them of desecration.

Many churches have told preservation societies that their buildings are not museums and must modernise.

Priests have warned that churches with dwindling congregations will close unless they get a new lease of life as community hubs.

Removing fixed pews and replacing them with moveable chairs creates open spaces that can be used for local groups and events, bringing in income and new worshippers.

Over the past decade, there have been about 100 requests a year from Church of England churches to remove four or fewer pews... according to unofficial estimates.

The Tablet

The Times

MARRIAGE FIGURES DROP IN ENGLAND AND WALES Marriage has hit a new low in England and Wales, according to new official statistics.

They show that just over half of the adult population in England and Wales, 50.2 per cent, was married in 2019, down from 51.8 per cent in 2009.

Less than 9.5 per cent of adults under 30 were married that year, reflecting a growing trend of delaying marriage until later on or never marrying.

The Coalition for Marriage said that the decline in marrying is one reason why the number of one-person households in England is projected to swell by more than 10 per cent over the next decade while the number of family households barely increases (Office for National Statistics: England).

The Guardian

The Church of England Newspaper

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GENERAL Brian Peddle

salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

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

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Major Godspower Anozie – 020 7367 4893 ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 22 August 2020

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

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

ISSN 2516-5909

FOUNDER William Booth

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

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CONTENTS

REDESIGNED PLANS JUST before the lockdown began in March, the editors of War Cry, Kids Alive! and I met with our respective teams to draw up plans for working from home. This was to be a new experience for us – working through the editorial and design processes, while miles apart, to ensure we reached our weekly print deadlines. It was strange at first, and everything took much longer than normal, but after a while we became used to this way of working. Some of the methods we’ve adapted may even continue when we’re eventually able to work together in one place again!

Of course, millions of people are in a similar position, including Salvation Army officers and employees. It may be tough, but those who are still in work are the fortunate ones because the number of redundancies has escalated and is expected to rise still further.

Other aspects of life have been disrupted as well, including weddings, holidays and school exams. While the most devastating impact of the pandemic has been on those who have died, fallen ill or lost loved ones, all our lives have been affected in some way – 2020 has definitely not worked out as planned.

On pages 8 to 10 the Territorial Commander reflects on how the territory has managed over the past few months. He mentions the concerns that were raised as the lockdown began and the impact on personnel and finances. But he also highlights the way staff members in Army residential centres have risen to the challenge and how corps have adapted their ministry, finding new ways to look after their members and reach out to others.

The extent to which corps life across the territory has changed is glimpsed in the example of North Walsham. On pages 12 and 13 corps officer Major Richard Durrant recalls life before the coronavirus pandemic, focusing on the new people who have joined the growing fellowship, then describes the corps ministry now. It’s quite a contrast, but they are making the most of new opportunities there.

As with corps activities, planned territorial events have been affected. The report on page 7 shows how the Territorial Music School took place online, while on page 21 Christine Thomas outlines changes to the Big Collection.

The pandemic has disrupted plans of all kinds, but sometimes things change because of our own actions – including when we turn away from God’s plan for our lives. Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis considers this on page 11 as he asks: ‘Does God have a plan B?’ The apostle Paul knew what it was like to have to alter his plans. Having travelled extensively, preaching the gospel and establishing churches, he found himself in prison. But from behind bars he said: ‘What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel’ (Philippians 1:12). He was able to witness to the guards, who had then shared the message with others – and his courageous witness encouraged the believers to preach more boldly.

Whether our plans are disrupted by circumstances outside our control or by our own foolishness or sin, God has a wonderful way of redesigning plans to serve his purposes and to work ‘for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose’ (Romans 8:28).

Quotes from the media

2

Message from the Territorial Leader for Leader Development 4 News

5 and 6

Prayer matters

6

News feature Virtual TMS hits the right note

7

by Jacob Smith

Interview 8 to 10 Taking stock and moving forward with Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

Reflection Does God have a plan B?

11

by Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis

We are The Salvation Army 12 and 13 We’re growing a friendly fellowship says Major Richard Durrant

My coronavirus story Saved to serve

14 and 15

by Jo Clark

Bible study Not if but when

16 and 17

by Major Lindy Rose

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

Reflection Creating good vibrations

18

by Commissioner Keith Banks

Poets’ corner

19

Reflection Praising a great God

19

by Brian Colley

Feature A quackin’ fundraiser

20

by Melita Day-Lewis

Feature 21 Big changes for the Big Collection

by Christine Thomas

Announcements

22 and 23

Adverts

23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Nyasha Chinyanganya

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT

Putting it into practice

Y

OU may have seen the story in the news recently about the ten-year-old boy, Ravi, who went with his mum and dad to the beach in Scarborough. He was enjoying swimming in the sea but suddenly found himself out of his depth. His dad, who was trying to get to him but realised it would be impossible, saw Ravi disappear away in the distance. But when this little boy realised he was drowning, he remembered something that he had learnt from a documentary on TV. The RNLI had shown what you should do if you think you are drowning.

This little boy didn’t panic; he quickly remembered what was said on the programme and did it. He floated on his back, made a star shape with his arms and legs and kept as still as he could.

Some time later the lifeboat came and rescued him.

I was amazed at the presence of mind of a ten-year-old in such a situation. He remembered what he had learnt and, in that moment of crisis, put it into practice.

One of the stories that Jesus told is about two builders. The wise one built his house on the rock. When the storm came, it stood firm. The foolish one built his house on sand. When the storm 4

Salvationist 22 August 2020

came it, it fell flat.

Jesus was talking about building on the firm foundation of his teaching: ‘Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock’ (Matthew 7:24).

Then on another occasion there was a big crowd, and Jesus’ mother and brothers were right at the back. Someone told Jesus they wanted to see him, and he said: ‘My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice’ (Luke 8:21).

Whoever hears God’s word and puts it into practice, Jesus suggests, is a very wise person.

I wonder how we are doing when it comes to hearing God’s word and putting it into practice, really remembering all that we have been taught and living by it. What about the command to ‘love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength’ (Mark 12:30)? What about loving others as Christ loves us? What about loving your neighbour as yourself, being kind, forgiving and compassionate to each other? What about acting justly, loving mercy and walking humbly with our God, as it says in Micah 6:8? How do we reflect the Kingdom of God in our lives, in our families, in our workplaces, in our corps and in our service to the world with those who need us?

In Matthew 14 there’s the story of Jesus walking on the water and Peter going out to meet him. Jesus had sent the disciples off in a boat while he spent some quiet time in prayer. But later that night, the Scripture says, Jesus went out and walked to them on the water.

The disciples thought it was a ghost, so Jesus said: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid’ (v27). Peter said: ‘Lord,

if it’s you… tell me to come to you on the water’ (v28).

Jesus told him to come, and verses 29 to 33 say: ‘Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came towards Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshipped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”’ Peter was doing OK until he looked down and began to panic. He saw Jesus and he understood so much about him – he recognised his wonderful power and love – yet at that moment of crisis, when the waves came up around him, he panicked and forgot all that he knew. But Jesus was there to save him.

It is so important not only to hear the word of God, but also to put his word into practice. Whatever crisis may come our way, Jesus Christ walks the waves with us. Perhaps we should take a leaf out of Ravi’s book and not panic, but instead remember the important things – especially that God is with us whatever the circumstance.

Peter just needed to keep focused on Jesus, but he took his eyes off him and began to sink. May our focus always be on Jesus so that we learn from him, put it into practice and find strength and support in every storm we face.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in his wonderful face; And the things of Earth will grow strangely dim In the light of his glory and grace.

(SASB 445)

GILL COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT O This

message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ user/salvationarmyvideo

NEWS

ARMY NEWS

ARMY NEWS

Procurement Team shortlisted for awards

Army supports families through ‘holiday hunger’

THQ

UKI

THE Procurement Team has been shortlisted for two accolades in the CIPS Excellence in Procurement Awards 2020.

The team, led by Head of Procurement Andrew Roper, is among the ten finalists to receive recognition in the Best Small Procurement Team of the Year and Best Procurement Transformation categories.

All entrants will be assessed by a panel of industry peers in the procurement and supply chain profession.

The winners will be announced live in an online awards ceremony on 16 September.

‘I’m extremely proud of the amazing team who continue to push the boundaries of what procurement can achieve for charities,’ said Andrew.

‘Matching the ethos and values of the Army, we seek to go beyond traditional procurement through raising awareness and supporting practical assistance to current social issues. This includes support campaigns to help identify modern slavery among our suppliers, bringing 70,000 books and toys to disadvantaged families at Christmas and enabling people who are experiencing homelessness to gain employment, skills and routes to turning their lives around.

‘Now in the wake of Covid-19 we’ve pivoted towards food procurement, delivering food parcels to 25,000 vulnerable families.’ – AR

THE Salvation Army has prepared thousands of meals and food parcels to help struggling families and other vulnerable people throughout the summer.

Many corps have been able to help a greater number of people turning to them for help as the long-term impact of the coronavirus continues.

To support this emergency action, the Army launched a fundraising campaign to help feed families and other vulnerable people, such as those experiencing homelessness, who are exposed to ‘holiday hunger’.

Tony Daniels, Territorial Director for Community Services, said the Army was prepared for demand to soar: ‘Every year we help people through holiday hunger as the summer brings new financial strains.

The coronavirus safety net is now being removed; the furlough scheme is in its final stages, protection from eviction is ending and the economy is stalling.

‘We know families are struggling and many other vulnerable people such as those experiencing homelessness will be in need.’ – AR

DISS Corps member Neil Powell received 30 older people’s care packs from Rebecca Mount, the hospitality host at Oaklands care home. The packs contained two pairs of gloves, two face masks, a jar of jelly beans, and a writing pad and pen, along with information about the home. These will be given to folk attached to the corps. – EH

CORPS HAROLD HILL Ten children from the BabySong group will move on to preschool in September, but their planned graduation ceremony was not able to take place due to coronavirus safety guidance. Not wanting the children to miss out, leaders Liz Haskew, Joy Hopkins and Susanna Smith arranged to perform the ceremonies on the doorsteps or in the gardens of the children’s homes. Amelia is pictured receiving a certificate and book from Liz. – PG

COMMUNITY

WOKING Corps officers Majors David and Margaret House were pleased to collect toiletries from the manager of the nearby Asda. The toiletries will be used to make welcome packs for residents living in a new assisted living complex for families next to the hall, with food and cleaning products hopefully included too. The officers had an opportunity to chat with the manager about life at the store during the pandemic and the effect that it has had on staff members. More donations are expected from the supermarket in the coming months. – MH

LONDON The Salvation Army charity shop on Princes Street, Mayfair, has been listed by a fashion insider in Elle magazine as one of the best charity shops to find sartorial treasures. ‘My favourite charity shop would be The Salvation Army near Hanover Square,’ said Costume Designer Charlotte Mitchell. ‘I have been going there for ten-plus years and it never lets me down when I’m looking for more interesting pieces that give personality to a look.’ – AR Is your corps adapting to the coronavirus crisis through innovative ministry opportunities? Salvationist wants to hear from you. Send your news to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Good quality pictures will be included.

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Prayer

NEWS

FUNDRAISING

COMMUNITY FOCUS

by Majors Karl and Ruth Gray (Clapton)

SATURDAY 22 AUGUST Dear God, may we know your guidance in all situations, along with your direction and your empowering Holy Spirit. In all things may we seek to reveal glimpses of the Kingdom of light into this world that often seems so dark and chaotic. Amen.

SUNDAY 23 AUGUST Dear God, all over the Salvation Army world people are responding to emergencies in a variety of ways. A food parcel, a utility top-up, a mug of coffee, pastoral care at a fire – the list is endless. As a privileged group of people, may we always take you into every situation in which we find ourselves. May we shine in the darkness as we reflect you in every conversation you have ordained for us to be part of today. Amen.

MONDAY 24 AUGUST Dear God, in numerous places parent-and-toddler groups are being run where new, often isolated, carers can become part of a community. May people glimpse your community and see that they could be part of that Kingdom. We pray that people will choose to follow you because doors are open and toys are on the floor. Amen.

CHESHIRE Over 26 days sisters Eloise and Esme took on 26 mini challenges as part of the 2.6 Challenge, including baking 26 brownies, reading 26 books and doing 26 cartwheels to raise money for the Army’s homelessness services. The girls exceeded their target of £50, raising a total of £736. – AR

TUESDAY 25 AUGUST Dear God, we live in a world where we have stopped being shocked. Stabbings, gun crime and muggings have become everyday occurrences. We know that only you can change the world, however. Help us to be obedient where we are and share your love at every opportunity. Help us to be the best customer and the kindest person on the bus. Please stop the hatred and violence that happen, and help people to learn to live in peace. Amen.

WEDNESDAY 26 AUGUST Dear God, help us to do everything that we do well. Help us to focus on the conversations and situations you need us to engage with in our sphere of influence. May we all listen to the Holy Spirit’s prompting, and if we need to do anything practical for anyone, please direct and compel us to do it. Amen.

COMMUNITY

THURSDAY 27 AUGUST Dear God, we pray today for families who, through broken relationships, do not get to spend time together. This world is broken in so many ways; help us to be people who put it back together, not always in big ways but through a smile or through buying someone a coffee. Amen.

FRIDAY 28 AUGUST Lord, you call us to worship you every minute of every day.

Help us today to recommit to being your Church seven days a week. Help us always to say yes to your voice in our lives and not to do anything that distracts us from building your Kingdom community. Amen.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources 6

Salvationist 22 August 2020 Salvationist Salvationist Date 18 Month July 2020 Year

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BLAYDON The corps has joined with other churches to deliver Bags of Hope throughout the school summer holidays to 26 families.

A total of 110 people in the area entitled to free school meals have been struggling to make ends meet since lockdown. The bags contain ingredients for a healthy meal and a recipe card. The families have also been given extra food from the Army’s divisional food hub, copies of Kids Alive! and activities or crafts for the children to enjoy.

Activities have included bubble wands, books, kites and basil seeds for planting. – AD

NEWS FEATURE

Virtual TMS hits the right note UKI TERRITORIAL Music School (TMS) this year wasn’t what anyone could have expected, writes Jacob Smith (Dudley), but it was still a week filled with love, grace, hope and joy. These were the themes that we explored during our 10@10 am sessions throughout the week, under the title Infinitely More.

We began our week with a quiz hosted

by Matthew Frost. It was prepared and delivered with a high amount of charisma and wit, which we all expected. It was a pleasure to listen to the testimonies of Derick Kane, Iain Parkhouse and Sue Blyth on Tuesday evening – hearing about their fond memories of TMS and their hopes for the future of the school. We enjoyed masterclasses with Phil Cobb (brass) on Wednesday evening and Silvie Paladino (vocal) on Thursday evening, which inspired many of us. We were grateful for all these guests who spoke with us.

Friday evenings at TMS are usually spent dressing up and dancing the night away.

While we may not have dressed up for photographs this year, we did enjoy a virtual disco hosted by Samuel Shelley.

In the final festival we presented a virtual Girls Chorus and Band, which featured more than 100 students past and present.

The Girls Chorus sang ‘I Sing Because I’m Happy’ and the Band played ‘To Regions Fair’ by the late Norman Bearcroft. The Virtual TMS Girls Chorus

Virtual TMS Band worship band brought us a wonderful song entitled ‘What A Beautiful Name It Is’, which fitted our theme for the week so appropriately. It was good to hear messages from Chris Brindley and Kenneth Downie about their pieces – ‘I Have Seen The Glory Of The Lord’ and ‘King Of Heaven’ – which were brought to us respectively by the A Chorus and A Band from previous final festivals.

A big thank you must go to the TMS staff for putting the week together and making it happen virtually – in particular Steve Cobb, Nick Brill, Andrew Blyth, Chris Shanks and Mel Dee. While TMS was not the same, it still blessed many people, which is exactly what the week is all about. I sincerely hope and pray that we

will be able to meet in person for TMS 2021 and I cannot encourage you enough to attend if you are able. It will be a year that you do not want to miss!

O The final festival can be seen at facebook.com/musicandcreativearts

10@10 AM THE cell group Bible studies took the theme Infinitely More, explains Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Major Helen Schofield.

The sessions, which were based on verses from Ephesians 3, took place each weekday morning and were entitled 10@10 am. Whoever was teaching shared for 10 minutes via a prepared video, and those who joined the Zoom call split into virtual breakout rooms. This allowed for good discussions around the topic.

There was a helpful engagement each morning with 25 to 30 delegates plus staff. The teaching was shared among the staff team, which gave the opportunity for a variety of styles and inputs.

I found the week to be positive, despite it being so very different from a normal residential TMS. It was great to see what can be done when we have to think outside the box.

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INTERVIEW

The Army was raised up to glorify God and serve in the name of Jesus – this is not the time to retreat but to advance

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Salvationist 22 August 2020

Taking stock and moving forward

Salvationist asks Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill about the Army’s response to the coronavirus and what the future might hold WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS WHEN THE LOCKDOWN WAS FIRST IMPOSED? My first thought was along the lines of ‘This is going to be interesting!’ A lot was obviously going to change, but we needed to concentrate on the things that do not change, especially the knowledge that God is with us. The Army was raised up to glorify God and serve in the name of Jesus – this is not the time to retreat but to advance.

At the same time there were, and still are, concerns for all sorts of groups of people in our communities. How would we be able to ensure that the Army’s residential services could safely continue? How could we source the necessary personal protective equipment for staff members and volunteers and how could our working practices adapt to keep everyone safe? How could we access sufficient quantities of food for our existing food banks, let alone the need for new ones? How would people in our communities who are elderly and alone be looked after? These were just some of the questions we had to consider. The last meetings I had at THQ before the lockdown concerned how retired officers, particularly the older ones, would be contacted, assured and served during the following days.

HOW HAVE STAFF MEMBERS IN RESIDENTIAL CENTRES MANAGED? I thank God for the remarkable service that staff members in our homes and Lifehouses have maintained during these incredibly challenging and difficult days. I

am so proud of the frontline men and women who have ensured that the people who are accommodated by the Army have been looked after so well. In addition to the brilliant care staff, I am grateful to the cleaners, receptionists, managers, cooks – everyone who continued to serve.

HOW HAS CORPS MINISTRY ADAPTED? Of course, it has changed drastically.

Over the years I have often mused on the question, ‘What would happen if we stopped all our programmes for a while?’

I never imagined it would ever happen, and certainly not like this. It has been a remarkable opportunity, despite the almost overwhelming challenges. This time has given us an opportunity to discern what is really important. For me it is a fresh understanding that the Church, and thus the Army, is at its best and strongest not necessarily when we come together but when we disperse and live out the Jesus life in our homes and communities.

It is thrilling to see and read of so many Salvationists being the hands, feet and mouth of Christ in their own communities.

An example of that was not only the collecting of food and prescriptions for neighbours but some bandsmen and women plucking up the courage to stand in their drives and play their instruments as a blessing to neighbours on Thursday evenings – before the current restrictions on playing instruments! We need to go on being innovative and bold.

The emergence of online meetings has

allowed corps to minister to thousands more people than they usually do. I praise God that these new opportunities have opened up, making it easier for people to join in worship or listen than it would have been for them to enter an Army hall or other church building. I’m also delighted that many former Salvationists have been watching or listening and been blessed.

Also, the intentional plans to be more pastoral of our own people, let alone the community, have been remarkable. I have heard from many people – those who, for various reasons, have been in their own lockdown for years – who have received more pastoral care than they ever have, and not just from the corps officers, but also from other members of the corps.

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS ON THE TERRITORY? In terms of finance there is no doubt that this period has been very uncertain. So many streams of income were and are threatened. Collections and weekly offerings, charity shops, income from renting out hall spaces, fundraising from events, sales of Army papers on the

Govan Corps ensures people who are hardest hit have access to hot food Salvationist 22 August 2020

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Residents in good hands at Villa Adastra care home

A resident at Granby Centre Lifehouse, Dublin

Major Sarah Murray provides boredom buster bags for Hemel Hempstead corps children

Belfast Citadel Songsters take part in a Zoom meeting

Ipswich Citadel delivers Mother’s Day flowers to corps folk self-isolating 10

Salvationist 22 August 2020

streets – these have all been affected.

However, the territory’s fundraising team has gone into overdrive and is processing significant donations from members of the public as well as from many Salvationists and employees who have given generously and sacrificially.

Significant numbers of employees were furloughed and, while it was and still is challenging for them personally, this saving from the government job retention scheme has helped cushion the blow. To help us recover financially we all need to honour God first and foremost with our giving – not because this is primarily about the pounds and pence, but because it is about being generous and reflecting the father-heart of God. If we can keep getting this right, other things will come right, especially as we monitor our expenses and, of necessity, tighten our belts.

THE TERRITORY COVERS A NUMBER OF JURISDICTIONS WITH DIFFERENT APPROACHES TO THE LOCKDOWN. HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO DEVISE TERRITORIAL POLICY ON REOPENING HALLS FOR WORSHIP? Generally speaking, it has become increasingly difficult, in fact impossible, to have a territorial policy on a whole host of matters relating to the pandemic, including reopening halls. Within the guidelines and rules of the relevant government, corps – having completed the appropriate risk assessments – must be guided by and given permission from divisional leadership to recommence.

There is no pressure from THQ or DHQs to restart meetings. Restarting will be different in different places, depending on a host of factors, including building layout, available resources, personnel and the age of the congregation. The critical thing is to ensure the safety of people who will attend a meeting.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO CORPS AS THE LOCKDOWN STARTS TO EASE? The first thing is: don’t be tempted to ‘go back’. I encourage people to think of going forward. There are some elements that we have to leave behind, and the pandemic is allowing us to revise what is crucially important and to prioritise. We need corps members to be discipled and released into intentional ministry where they live and work and study, having

come together in worship and teaching – whether virtually or physically. Don’t feel pressured to go forward too quickly and certainly not before some serious questions have been asked and evaluations completed.

In much of the territory at the moment it is not possible to sing, play brass instruments or have refreshments – and there is discouragement for there to be interaction with others! These are all important elements of Salvation Army worship. In most places we need to be patient and wait until it is safer for there to be further easing of these restrictions.

Some fellowships will be able to meet and benefit from a restart even under these conditions, but many will find this impractical. I do feel for some people who have been in lockdown on their own and who are desperate to be ‘in fellowship’. Having said this, I do know that where two or three are gathered, there the Lord makes his presence known in a special way and I trust that this will be the case as corps do recommence, even though it may feel very strange.

Some corps will be able to have more than one meeting, but that again depends on local needs, the size of the congregation, the size of the hall and the ability of the corps to clean the facilities thoroughly in between meetings.

HOW HAVE YOU AND COMMISSIONER GILL COPED WITH WORKING MAINLY FROM HOME? Like everyone we have adapted to fresh rhythms of life, but it has been OK. We have missed not getting around the territory and meeting people – but thankfully technology has allowed us to be even more connected to increasing numbers of people. We have had to learn to stop and relax. Although we do not have a garden to go outside and walk in, we have discovered some remarkable buildings and historical points of interest in and around the part of central London where we live.

WHAT DO YOU THINK GOD HAS BEEN SAYING TO US DURING THIS TIME? ‘Trust me – I am with you. There is so much you have to learn from me, and this pandemic is an opportunity for you to come deeper with me and so reach even more people for me.’

REFLECTION REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON

DOES GOD HAVE A PLAN B? Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis assures us that we are always part of God’s plans

‘T

HE best laid plans of mice and men often go awry’ is a saying from a line in ‘To A Mouse’ by Robert Burns. It is often quoted when things do not turn out according to plan.

With this in mind, many planners form a plan B as an alternative if the original plan fails.

Does God have a plan B? Well, the answer is both yes and no. In many respects God does have a plan B, but in one particular instance everything was based solely upon one plan, with no alternative. That was God’s plan of salvation for the world. It was a plan built upon the person and character of Jesus Christ. To put it bluntly, Jesus was the plan to save the world. There was no other. In the critical moments before this plan was fulfilled on Calvary, Christ prayed in Gethsemane: ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me’ (Matthew 26:39). On this occasion it wasn’t possible – there was no other plan and no other person able to achieve it.

In many instances, however, God does have an alternative. One example is a verse many take to heart: ‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and

a future”’ (Jeremiah 29:11). It may come as a surprise to many, but this verse refers to God’s plan B. Allow me to give the background to this verse, beginning with Moses. He led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, with the promise that they would live in a land flowing with milk and honey: ‘Observe therefore all the commands I am giving you… so that you may live long in the land that the Lord swore to your ancestors to give to them and their descendants, a land flowing with milk and honey’ (Deuteronomy 11:8 and 9).

That was the plan. Unfortunately the Israelites disobeyed God’s commands and as a result they were taken captive to Babylon.

After the first group, which included the king, had gone into exile in 597BC, Jeremiah declared that the Lord had plans to bring the Israelites back to their own land once more. This was God’s plan B. It was never his plan for them to be taken into captivity. His promise was that they would live in Israel, the Promised Land. That was God’s plan A. Then came a new plan – a plan for hope and a future.

Here then is a source of hope for us.

We all fall short of God’s original plan for our lives but, when that happens, God does not reject us because he is the God of new opportunities. If the original plan for our lives is thwarted by our own disobedience, he forgives us by his grace and gives us a new opportunity.

His ultimate plan for our lives can still be realised.

Let me give you an illustration from the world of motoring. Most new cars today come with GPS (Global Positioning System). To use it, you do not have to tell the system where you are – it already knows that. You only have to plot in your destination, and immediately it comes up with a route that will guide you all the way there. However, things can happen on the way that might alter your route.

Roadworks, accidents, floods – even a lack of attention – can frustrate the original plan. Then the guidance system produces new instructions, enabling the journey to be completed.

When we speak of God’s plan for our lives, and we find ourselves following plan B instead of plan A, it does not mean we have a different final destination. It is simply a detour. The Israelites’ time in exile was just such an example. God’s plan was still working towards bringing his people back to their homeland.

This is true for all of us. If we repent, God’s ultimate plan for our lives still holds. His eternal promise for us is found in 2 Corinthians 6:16: ‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.’

It’s a reference to the original plan; how life was before the Fall. That was, and is still, God’s plan for our lives, secured for us when Christ died at Calvary.

LIEUT-COLONEL ELLIS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN NORWAY Salvationist 22 August 2020

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There are hundreds of corps and centres up and down the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, but what makes them The Salvation Army? In this series, Salvationist discovers just that

We’re growing a friendly fellowship Rachael and her daughters

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Richard

ORTH Walsham has a particular heart for used-to-be Salvationists.

The corps has welcomed many new members over recent years, but five of the newest members were soldiers before. These include mum-of-two Rachael, who left the corps as a teenager 25 years ago, and Richard, who left the Army 14 years ago. They both rededicated their lives to the Lord after he led them back to faith and our fellowship.

‘We all look after each other and keep in contact,’ says Richard, ‘supporting each other through prayer and in other ways. I’m so pleased to be back at the Army and I pray God can use me.’

This real acceptance also extends to everyone who walks through the doors.

We want everyone to feel that they belong and we pride ourselves on our welcome.

There are a whole variety of ‘entry points’ for people of all ages to join the fellowship. Before the coronavirus pandemic these would usually include coffee mornings, family links, the community band, the lunch club and volunteering.

Janet first came just over a year ago after attending a lunch club.

‘When I first came along I was not in a good place,’ she says. ‘But coming here has helped me find new friends and

Songs of Praise meeting before lockdown

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Salvationist 22 August 2020

Janet

says North Walsham corps officer Major Richard Durrant

Dorrie Ewles rediscover my faith in God. I look forward to it every week.’

North Walsham has also seen a general increase in the number of people joining the worshipping fellowship. Corps members have invited their friends to ‘seeker-friendly’ meetings such as Songs of Praise or the occasional café church.

These have been a great success and there are plans to develop the programme to include even more of them.

Wendy is one of the newest adherent members. She first linked up with the corps when her Salvationist parents moved to the area. She found a warm, caring place where she soon fitted in.

‘I have never been so happy in my life,’ she says, adding that she values the care of her newfound friends, who have helped and supported her through a tough time.

This focus on welcome is informed by the corps mission statement: ‘We are representatives of Jesus Christ in our community so that by our words and actions others will come to know him’.

The vision is ‘to bring people to Jesus and bring Jesus to people’, which we aim to achieve through the values of ‘welcoming, befriending, loving, praying and pastoring’.

Major Richard welcomes 13 adherent members in October 2019

The community band before lockdown

‘

We are representatives of Jesus in our community so that by our words and actions others will come to know him In all this, the corps seeks to follow the territory’s three-pronged mission: to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity. Len and Trish are a lovely example of this. When their home was flooded they were helped by the corps and started attending meetings. Len was a non-believer at the time but has now been saved. Welcomed as adherent members, they have joined the Bible study group as they seek to grow in their faith.

With a total of 59 members the worshipping congregation has grown by almost 50 per cent over the past couple of years. On top of that, a lot of the congregation are not members. This is especially the case with the seekerfriendly meetings, which have seen increased attendance; only about half the Sunday morning congregation are uniformed Salvationists.

Situated in north Norfolk, North

’

Walsham is a market town of about 12,000 people and there has been an active Salvation Army presence for 134 years.

The corps building itself is old. Opening in 1897, it comprises a single multipurpose worship hall, which is normally used throughout the week for community activities. Although it is not ideal it has been adapted to suit corps needs as best as possible.

Outreach would normally include the charity shop, weekly activities, War Cry evangelism, an annual community carol service in the town theatre and activities that are regularly mentioned in the local press. The corps also plays its full part in Churches Together in North Walsham.

The No 1 on the roll, 91-year-old Dorrie Ewles, has been at the corps almost since birth. She first attended the home league at 10 days old and enrolled as a soldier at the age of 14. She describes North Walsham as ‘wonderful, friendly and caring’, adding that, while the corps has had ups and downs over the years, it got through the difficult times with God’s help.

‘I could not live without being part of it,’ she says. ‘I love coming to the meetings and sharing in worship and fellowship, including meeting lovely new people in the past few years.’

Many of these new people came through activities such as the Army Bears parent-and-toddler group, over-60s club, children’s club, coffee mornings and prayer meetings, as well as a monthly Bible study, monthly youth group, community band, songsters and timbrel practice. The charity shop is run wholly by volunteers and supports the community programme. The corps also has close links with Furze Hill House care home, which is part of the Army’s Older People’s Services.

We would particularly like to pray for new families joining us as well as for new programmes that are being developed, such as the seeker-friendly meetings, Rendezvous – a weekly event for folks to meet with each other – and a men’s activity called Pitt Stop. Overall, our prayers are that God will continue to bless and guide us, that we will continue to reach out and accept new people into our midst and that, through this, lives will be changed.

During the pandemic corps folk have stayed in touch with each other. There has been a weekly news and prayer sheet and a weekly online meeting, while younger members have supported those shielding and in isolation with shopping. With the number of emails sent out and posts on the corps Facebook page, some weeks more than 200 people have clicked into the meeting. Cautious plans are being made to reintroduce worship on two selected Sundays as an experiment, which will then be evaluated. These will be for a limited number of people socially distanced, but at this stage regular weekly meetings are not to be reintroduced.

Salvationist 22 August 2020

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FEATURE My coronavirus story

Saved to serve One woman shares with Jo Clark (IHQ) why she’s helping the Army respond to the Covid-19 pandemic

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Pictures: BENNY DHAYA

URING India’s coronavirus lockdown, many people living with HIV and Aids have not been able to access antiretroviral medication as there is no transport to the towns where they usually collect them. Staff from The Salvation Army’s Community Health and Development Programme (SA-CHDP) in the India South Eastern Territory recently set out to distribute food, medicine and sanitary items to people living with HIV and Aids in Tamil Nadu. They did not expect Sumita [not her real name] to call the SA-CHDP office and offer to help.

Sumita had a great insight into what some of the area’s most vulnerable people were facing. This is her story: In 2003 a young girl came to our village and introduced herself as Vijila, a social worker for The Salvation Army’s HIV/Aids care and support project. At this time, already three avasthas had been given to my husband. (An avastha is where the parish priest gives holy bread to a dying patient and prays to the Lord for their soul to be taken to

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Salvationist 22 August 2020

Heaven. This is done three times before the person dies.) We had already begun to make arrangements for his funeral.

The time for him to die was near, but I was praying to God to send me an angel.

Two men came with Vijila, and introduced themselves as Alexander, from nearby Kulasekharam, and Suresh, the project co-ordinator. My neighbours had started to object to my husband’s burial being near our home.

Since it is a hilly area they feared that their well water might get contaminated with the HIV virus, which they believed was the cause of his illness.

Alexander and Suresh said that my husband was not going to die and that they would take him to The Salvation Army’s Catherine Booth Hospital (CBH) in Nagercoil. I opened the door and showed them into the room where my husband was. The windows were closed, and when they asked why, I explained that the neighbours were peeping inside the room out of curiosity.

The room smelt bad.

Suresh asked me to get some water, which he gave to my husband, who then drank four more glasses. They opened the windows; this was the first time in months that my husband had seen natural light.

I think my husband might have known about his HIV status long before and he

‘

Having been helped by the Army when I was at my lowest, I now want to give back

’

was afraid that it might affect me and my children. So he had remained in this secluded room for months, using a separate cup and plate.

My husband used to work as a tailor in Mumbai, where he had a large number of customers. During the past year, though, he had been falling ill frequently. Unable to continue his tailoring business he closed the shop and gave it up for rent. We lost all our savings and were bankrupt.

Believing that my husband was not going to recuperate, I urged Suresh and Alexander to let him die as soon as possible; we couldn’t bear to see him suffer further. However, they went immediately to Kulasekharam and arranged a taxi. I packed a few clothes and a couple of plates and cups, and left my two daughters with my motherin-law.

My husband was unable to stand on his own, so they wrapped him up in a

blanket and carried him to the road. It was late, so Vijila and Alexander left for home. Suresh accompanied us to the SA-CHDP office to meet Director of SA-CHDP Benny Dhaya, who helped us buy medicines since I didn’t have any money.

Then we were taken to meet Dr Ebenezer, who referred my husband for an HIV antibody test. There I also met Mr Prasad, the lab technician.

Even before the test results arrived, Dr Ebenezer admitted my husband to CBH’s Mercy Clinic ward and started

to treat him for severe diarrhoea, bedsores and high fever.

I was curious about my husband’s HIV status but the doctor didn’t reveal it. I was then confused about my own HIV status and those of my children.

Directly opposite our room, however, was the chapel. Whenever I felt worried, I would visit and pray to the Lord for my children. It was a healing place for me.

The next morning the counsellor spoke to my husband. She asked if I would also undergo an antibody test.

I took courage and told her that I would bring both my children so all three of us could be tested. I tested HIV-positive, but both my young children tested HIV-negative.

My husband was given the best care.

There were frequent visits from Dr Ebenezer, and the nursing staff were also kind to us. Food was arranged for free by the SA-CHDP. Despite all that was happening, I didn’t cry or blame my husband, because of the faith that I had in SA-CHDP and the CBH. Today my husband is 56 years old and living healthily. He is back working as a tailor and I am a social worker with the HIV Positive People’s Network, helping to bring confidence to other households.

Seventeen years ago, my family members, the general community, and even the parish priest thought that death was close to my door. Without the intervention of Vijila, Alexander, Suresh, SA-CHDP and CBH my husband would have died long ago. It was a last-minute intervention that saved him.

Benny Dhaya has also helped us with advice on higher education and job opportunities for our children. Our eldest daughter is a microbiologist and my younger daughter is doing her BSc in Nursing at The Salvation Army’s Catherine Booth College of Nursing. I thank the Lord every day for the love and affection shown to us by the entire SA-CHDP team.

Having been helped by the Army when I was at my lowest, I now want to give back.

Salvationist 22 August 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

Not if but when Major Lindy Rose reminds us that messing up need not be the end MATTHEW 26:31–35, 69–75

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OT everyone likes to be told something. Some of us prefer to be asked, particularly if it’s something we don’t want to hear or do.

QUESTION O What was your reaction last time someone told you something you didn’t want to hear?

In our study passage Jesus tells the disciples some uncomfortable truths – a prophecy about their own inadequacies and failures. To date, Jesus has been full of glory, miracles and powerful teaching, but he knows that what follows will be too much for the disciples. The glory, miracles and teaching will lead to shame, torture, humiliation and death. It’s not the outcome they expect or want. All the disciples, without exception, will fall away. That must have been hard to hear, but even harder to experience.

Don’t you just love Peter? ‘Even if…’ he begins to reply (v33). Yet it is not a

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

by Major Howard Webber

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Salvationist 22 August 2020

question of ‘if’ but ‘when’. The ‘when’ is not some undisclosed time in the future but, as Jesus predicts, ‘this very night’ (v31).

It’s personal. Jesus will fail to live up to all their previous experiences of him and yet it’s he who points it out. Everything that will happen to Jesus will test all that the disciples have seen and heard and each of them will be found wanting. In his commentary on this passage, Frederick Dale Bruner writes: ‘The night of great forgiveness at the table is also the night of great denials in the garden.’

QUESTIONS O How do you experience forgiveness?

O Do you sometimes find it hard to escape the disappointment of knowing that you’ve often been found wanting?

Jesus owns the biblical concept of ‘the shepherd’. The disciples will be separated and divided, and without the Shepherd they’ll be nowhere. Yet Jesus knows this is not the end. They have a future – and it’s together. The Shepherd will still lead. The Shepherd will still take

care of the sheep. Jesus recognises the disciples’ potential, but knows that it will take his death, resurrection, ascension and the sending of the Holy Spirit for it to become a reality.

QUESTION O How can your potential be more fully realised?

Peter has a low view of his fellows and an overinflated view of himself. In truth, he is no better. Judas has betrayed Jesus; Peter will reject him.

QUESTIONS O Which is harder, betrayal or rejection?

O Why? ‘Never’ is a dangerous word. It is more dangerous still to contradict Jesus.

Despite Peter’s ‘never’ (v33), during the darkest time of night he falls in the darkest and deepest way. His fall is quick and happens time and time again. Peter, who is the alleged ‘rock’, is reduced to a weeping lump. Peter the offended becomes Peter the offender.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

‘Truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘this very night, before the cock crows, you will disown me three times.’ But Peter declared, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’ And all the other disciples said the same.

(Matthew 26:34 and 35)

I’ll follow thee, of life the giver,/ I’ll follow thee, suffering Redeemer,/ I’ll follow thee, deny thee never,/ By thy grace I’ll follow thee.

(SASB 589)

Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servantgirl came to him. ‘You also were with Jesus of Galilee,’ she said. But he denied it before them all. ‘I don’t know what you’re talking about,’ he said.

(Matthew 26:69 and 70)

Prayer Lord, I love you and long to be the sort of servant in whom you are well pleased. Yet I fail you in not witnessing when opportunities arise. Forgive me and fill me with that Holy Spirit courage I lack.

QUESTIONS O When have you directly contradicted Christ’s words?

O What happened?

Peter stated his faith was strong and the other disciples joined him in professing faith that, when tested, proved to be wildly exaggerated. They might have had the last word, but they couldn’t live up to it.

Reports of this bravado and falling away are testament to the vulnerability and honesty of the Early Church. To focus only on the triumphs does not mirror reality.

The disciples blew it and the recording of that fact can bring reassurance that messing up need not be the end.

QUESTION O In what ways does this thinking offer hope?

Peter faces his own trial. Jesus is tried on the question of his messiahship, Peter on his discipleship. There are witnesses and testimony, and Peter has a flimsy defence: ‘I don’t know what you’re talking about’ (v70).

QUESTIONS anyone testified about your life, what might you say?

O Jesus was tried in a courtroom, Peter in a courtyard. Where are our trials most pressing – in a closed, inner place or an open, visible space?

O If

From the courtyard, Peter ‘went out to the gateway’ (v71). In so doing, physically and spiritually, he moves farther from Jesus. It appears he can’t get away quickly enough.

When we deny Christ, time does not stand still, waiting for us to be redeemed; life goes on and we live with the consequences.

QUESTIONS O In what ways might we deny Jesus?

O What impact does this have?

Contrast Peter fiercely protesting his loyalty to Jesus with Peter consistently denying his Saviour. Much is expected of people who make great claims. Peter is accused about the company he keeps.

He feigns ignorance, deflecting attention from himself.

QUESTION O Are we comfortable with the company we keep, or would we want to deflect attention from ourselves?

When a girl accuses Peter of being ‘with’ Jesus, he moves away from her (see vv69–71). When he is then accused of being ‘one of them’ (v73), he distances himself from them by calling down curses – not the expected behaviour of a disciple.

Peter’s denials start with ignorance and move steadily in repeated behaviour towards deliberate intent.

Peter’s faith was tested and he was found wanting, but he was still loved.

It’s never ‘if’, but ‘when’.

MAJOR ROSE IS CORPS OFFICER, HENDON

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

But my heart at times with care is crowded,/ Oft I serve with weak, o’erladen hands,/ And that early joy grows dim and clouded/ As each day its heavy toll demands./ Have I ceased from walking close beside thee?/ Have I grieved thee with an ill-kept vow?/ In my heart of hearts have I denied thee?/ Speak, dear Lord, O speak and tell me now.

(SASB 634)

Then he went out to the gateway, where another servant-girl saw him and said to the people there, ‘This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.’ He denied it again, with an oath: ‘I don’t know the man!’

(Matthew 26:71 and 72)

Yet deeper do I ponder,/ His cross and sorrow see,/ And ever gaze and wonder/ Why Jesus died for me./ And shall I fear to own him?/ Can I my Lord deny?/ No! let me love him, serve him,/ And meet him by and by.

(SASB 528)

Those standing there went up to Peter and said, ‘Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.’ Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, ‘I don’t know the man!’

Immediately a cock crowed.

Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken...

And he went outside and wept bitterly.

(Matthew 26:73–75)

Salvationist 22 August 2020

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REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON REFLECTION

Creating good vibrations Commissioner Keith Banks continues the series in which people reflect on a favourite prayer

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MUST have led a sheltered life because I had not come across Saint Ephrem until recently. After reading one of his prayers I was intrigued by him.

The more I read and thought about his prayer, the greater my interest became.

Saints are saints because they are found to be holy, and I have no doubt Ephrem was well qualified for sainthood on that score. But Ephrem’s prayer suggests to me that there was something very down to earth about him. This man seemed to know more about humility than halos. This is his prayer: ‘O Lord and Master of my life, spare me from the spirit of apathy and meddling, of idle chatter and love of power. Instead grant me, your servant, the spirit of integrity and humility, of patience and love. Yes, O Lord and God, grant me the grace to be aware of my sins and not to judge others, for you are blessed, now and ever and for ever.

Amen.’

Ephrem lived between the years 306 and 373. He was born in Nisibis in Mesopotamia (now Turkey) and his parents were thought to play a significant part in the life of that city’s growing church. We know that Ephrem became a Christian as a young man and quickly grew in faith and in things spiritual, being well known in his home city for his sound and informative teaching. In 363 he became a war refugee, together with most of the Christian population. He fled to Edessa (now the city of Urfa in southeast Turkey) and was eventually ordained as a deacon.

Ephrem was a creative and prolific writer and it is said that his writings reveal an intimate knowledge of Scripture. He wrote poetry and songs and is credited with being one of the first to introduce singing into public worship.

He was a worthy forerunner of early Salvationists because he wrote lyrics to popular tunes, more often than not, tunes used by groups opposed to Christianity – fourth-century equivalents of ‘Champagne Charlie’, I presume! But his hymns were said to be sound in doctrine 18

Salvationist 22 August 2020

and valuable teaching aids for new Christians.

Ephrem lived a basic lifestyle in a cave that overlooked Edessa, and from there he went to his reward in Heaven.

A thoughtful reading of Ephrem’s prayer reveals a lot about him as a person. I see here a natural, honest, salt-of-the-earth kind of Christian, who was well aware of his faults and failings – all necessary qualifications, I would contend, for sainthood. The Church has always been made up of imperfect people trying to be good, and Ephrem was one of them. He was well aware of his humanity and his tendency towards apathy, meddling, idle chatter and a lust for power. But he had the spiritual honesty and insight to ask the Lord to replace those negatives in his life with integrity, humility, patience and love.

Rather than be judgmental of others, he also asked the Lord to give him an awareness of his own sin.

Many of the positive facets of fourthcentury Christianity and Christian congregations are still seen in the Church, and for that we should be glad.

But, sadly, so are some of the negatives.

Because we are imperfect people, those four dangerous and corrosive issues Ephrem asked to be delivered from rise up for attention.

Apathy is indifference, unconcern, a feeling of detachment, of being politely not bothered and being content to let things drift along. Not many of us always escape such an attitude, nor the temptation to meddle and intrude into congregational matters that should not concern us. Such dangers are never far away. As for idle chatter, well, the apostle Paul had a few things to say about that to Early Church congregations which are very relevant today, and the desire for power in the Church is the very antithesis of the servant attitude of the Servant King.

These things are a serious threat to personal spiritual development, and for a congregation they are a massive hindrance to the pursuit of Kingdom

goals. Saint Ephrem clearly knew that, which is why he prayed to live a more Christlike life, marked by integrity, humility, patience and love – and why he prayed that God would give him the grace to be aware of his shortcomings.

Saint Ephrem, a genuine Christian, musician and lyricist, came to be known as ‘the harp of the Spirit’. The sound of the harp is gentle, mellow and gives off calming vibrations. I think those words describe Ephrem well. The earnestness of his prayer certainly vibrates through the centuries to our own generation.

Early Christian art often depicts angels as harpists – perhaps saints play harps as well.

COMMISSIONER BANKS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN INVERKIP

REFL RE FLE EC CTION TIIO T TIO ON N REFLEC REFLECTION

Poets’ corner Just how you feel For a friend suffering from depression

Brian Colley (Clowne) continues his second series of reflections on verses from Psalms

Dear friend, Just how you feel I cannot know, Nor can I hope to heal Your pain, or end Your far-too-long distress But, being blessed, I bless The man who often plays In church on worship days Turning a weekly duty Into harmonious beauty.

He helps me pray and praise, And trust that – come what may – Faith, hope and love remain In spite of pain.

This too is true: And so I thank the one and only you.

What is mankind that you are mindful of them?

(Psalm 8:4)

P

JOHN COUTTS (STIRLING)

What did you see, Lord?

What did you see, Lord, when you walked this Earth That made your heart ache so?

Injustice, prejudice and poverty.

What did you hear, Lord, when you walked this Earth That made your heart ache so?

Hatred, malice and indifference.

What do we see as we walk this Earth?

And does it make our heart ache As we too see injustice, prejudice and poverty?

And what do we hear that makes our heart ache Like the heart of Christ’s when he walked this Earth?

Beyond the shouts of hatred and indifference Dare we listen harder to hear the cry for equality,

Praising a great God

The cry for freedom, the cry for compassion?

We are called to be partners in mission – partners in Christ!

Our prayer must be one of love, of grace and hope, And one where we offer to God our best to serve suffering humanity.

MAJOR STEPHEN NAYLOR (HULL ICEHOUSE)

SALM 8 is a hymn of praise – praise for God who is such a great creator and still cares about his creation. The psalmist marvels at God’s handiwork and is obviously fascinated and impressed as he looks at the night sky. He can hardly understand how the weaver of that wonderful tapestry of moon and stars can be bothered with lowly humankind, even trusting them to care for the other part of his creation, the Earth. Humankind has been given a position higher than the rest of creation.

This writer ends as he begins, on a note of praise: ‘Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the Earth!’ (v9). What a pity God’s trust has been abused by those who have polluted the Earth, its water and atmosphere.

Certain kinds of animals and birds have been wiped out because of neglect and greed. Even today endangered species are being exploited by those who have turned their back on God in search of physical rather than spiritual happiness.

In spite of all that, God has not changed and his love for undeserving people is still the same. He truly deserves the praise of everyone on Earth. How can anyone not be moved to praise such a great and loving God? O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds thy hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to thee: How great thou art! How great thou art!

(SASB 49)

Salvationist 22 August 2020

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FEATURE I Quacky races

A quackin’ fundraiser Maxine Whitmore gives Melita Day-Lewis the inside story of a duck race created to raise funds for the Army

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S pandemic restrictions on sport begin to ease, a quackin’ new event has been launched in New Malden, Surrey: the Ducksbury Races.

Thirty-two small and sixteen large rubber bath ducks are competing in two races at Mallard Park to be crowned Ducksbury’s first winners on either wheels or water. Race organiser Maxine Whitmore said that the ducks were not racing for any special prizes or medals but to raise money for The Salvation Army.

The whole family has been involved in the fundraising fun. Sons Adam and James have helped with race production and filming and Maxine’s husband, Brian, has been busy building the racetrack and operating be behind-thescenes IT. ducks race The duc down bes bespoke lanes crea created out of guttering guttering. When the sma smaller, and lighter lighter, ducks struggled strug gain to g sufficient suff mom momentum on wa water, 20

Salvationist 22 August 2020

Adam found a solution by providing custom-made Lego cars for each competitor. This led to the creation of the first race, Wacky Wheels.

Wacky Wheels took place two weekends ago in front of Lego and duck-race enthusiasts. Four ducks in peak condition faced each other in eight different heats, with only one winner qualifying for the quarterfinals. The contenders came from a range of work backgrounds, including some more unusual occupations, such as a pirate, jester, fairy, cowgirl, punk rocker, magician and lifeguard.

The heats were categorised into emergency services, entertainers, workers, ‘dressing-up ducks’, ‘odds and ends’, footballers, spotty duck family and ‘space time’, in which, Tim Beak (the first British drake in space), DT (an alien duck), Helen Duckman (the first female duck in space) and baby Rocket Man faced each other. Lifeguard Quacksafe won the grand final, beating fireman Barney by a beak.

The second race takes place on Saturday 29 August and features bigger ducks swimming down water-filled lanes.

Each entrant is named after children Maxine works with.

‘I’m a speech and language therapist.

I work with children with Developmental Language Disorder in a specialist unit and I wanted to involve them,’ she explains.

The starting line-up for the water heats is also an eclectic mix of characters, including a bridal party, a judge, an aviator, a spa duck, a jungle duck, and two literary characters: Sherlock Holmes and The Mad Hatter.

Maxine gathered her competitors before lockdown for a school project about occupations, but pandemicrelated restrictions closed the school and put the project on hold.

‘During lockdown we were very impressed by Captain Tom Moore with his magnificent fundraising and we thought we would do something similar… I was left with this large number of ducks and I thought I could use them in a different way – to raise money for charity,’ she relates.

So far, the Whitmores have raised almost £1,500, with donations coming from across the world. The family decided to donate the funds raised to The Salvation Army after receiving a newsletter about the Army’s work helping those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

‘As a family we’ve always been long-term supporters of The Salvation Army because they stand for belief in action… they’re Christians with their sleeves rolled up who get stuck in where the need is,’ enthuses Maxine.

Another source of inspiration was the song ‘A Little Bit Of Love’, written by Graham Kendrick.

‘The song’s message that any little acts of kindness, when added together, can make an ocean of difference… really resonated with me,’ says Maxine.

As well as setting up the duck races, she formed Maxine’s Makaton Choir with 11 other speech and language therapists from the Croydon area, who helped her create a YouTube video where the words of the song are signed using the Makaton language programme, which enables people to communicate through signs, symbols and speech.

‘I wanted to get the message across to as many people as possible,’ explains Maxine.

O Watch the races and find out more by visiting drbrianwhitmore.wixsite.com/ ducksbury-races O For more information on ways to fundraise for The Salvation Army go to salvationarmy.org.uk/fundraise-us

FEATURE I Big Collection

Big changes for the Big Collection Christine Thomas explains how the Big Collection is being adapted in light of the Covid-19 pandemic

T

HE Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of life in 2020, and the way we raise money for the annual Big Collection is also severely impacted. A paper proposing options was discussed by the Territorial Operations Board and a number of changes for this year have been approved.

Throughout the pandemic, Salvation Army residential centres – Lifehouses, older people’s care homes and safe houses for people who have been victims of human trafficking and modern slavery – have remained open. The employees and officers in these centres have done a tremendous job and we need to find ways to support them, particularly this year. The general public has been great in showing support to the NHS and care workers, which include some of our staff, so we hope the Salvation Army family can find ways to show support to its own care workers through this year’s Big Collection.

The Big Collection in 2019 raised £1.2 million for The Salvation Army Social Work Trust – 15 per cent of it from house-to-house collecting, 17 per cent from street collections and 67 per cent from special events and community fundraising.

Some Big Collection fundraising methods will not be possible this year.

The Institute of Fundraising has advised against all house-to-house collecting for the rest of 2020. This will be reviewed for next year, but this year house-to-house collecting envelopes and resources will not be provided by THQ. Many local authorities have already cancelled street collections and standing days, with no new bookings accepted for the foreseeable future. However, the sale of Army papers on the streets is still permitted by the vast majority of councils, and a number of corps have already increased their orders so that heralds can get out again. As well as being a means of outreach and fundraising for

Staple Hill junior soldier Noah raised £407 for the Big Collection through a sponsored pigtail challenge corps work, many corps use the sale of the War Cry and Kids Alive! to support the Big Collection. The THQ Publishing Department has produced a set of guidelines for heralds wanting to resume their ministry on the streets. This ministry should only happen when heralds feel it is safe and when government guidance allows. Email publishing@salvationarmy. org.uk for details.

The greatest opportunity for fundraising towards the Big Collection this year will be through special events and community fundraising – even though these will also be impacted by pandemic restrictions. A number of corps have already set up JustGiving pages to raise money through local donations and virtual events. We encourage more corps to do this. The money raised can be allocated to the Big Collection, as long as the narrative on the JustGiving page is clear about where the money is going. Please contact me for more information on this.

The Territorial Operations Board has agreed that corps targets for this year will not be set. However, we are asking corps to do their best and explore what is possible in order to generate support for

Army residential work. This year we are specifically focusing on Lifehouses, care homes and safe houses, rather than simply appealing for funds to support the Social Work Trust.

The banking date will be extended beyond the end of November to the end of December, so that if corps wish to allocate part of any carolling money to the Big Collection, they can. In future the Big Collection year will be 1 January to 31 December, which means that money can be raised and banked throughout the year. Of course, house-to-house collecting – when it becomes possible again – will still only be allowed in the usual designated period in the autumn.

The Big Collection – and its predecessors – has always been the once-a-year time when Salvation Army members and friends ask their community to support the territory’s social work. Given the huge outpouring of love and support for the NHS and care workers in recent months, there is an opportunity to strengthen the connections between corps and residential social work. We recognise some corps are miles from the nearest Lifehouse or Army care home, but we hope that creative ways can be found to breathe new life into the Big Collection and strengthen our integrated mission.

The Big Collection’s outward focus towards our communities needs to be maintained. THQ will be producing a video for corps to show in their online meetings to encourage viewers to give, and friends, family, colleagues and neighbours can also be asked to donate to this worthwhile cause.

O For more information email christine. thomas@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 020 7367 4816

CHRISTINE IS TERRITORIAL APPEALS OFFICER Salvationist 22 August 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Hal and Margaret Gomersall, Swindon Citadel (17 September) Emerald (55th) O CSM John and Joan Burton, Southsea (4 September) Golden O DE John and Dorothy Farrar, Irthlingborough (22 August) O David and Ann Smith, Fakenham (29 August) O Ian and Pauline Whiteside, Sale (5 September) O RS Barrie and RS Marilyn Mockett, Southsea (5 September) O Majors Roy and Olivia Milner (5 September) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Joan Cutland (85 on 6 September) O Major Jean Phillips (90 on 6 September) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Mary Harvey, Burton-on-Trent O Major Peter Shipp from Hayward House hospice on 11 August BEREAVED O Major Marion Shipp of her husband Major Peter Shipp, Major Janice Snell, Penge, and Jo Mellor, Stapleford, of their father OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 August O Major Lynne Davis out of Manchester Central in 2005 and last appointment West Cornforth O Major Gillian Dicker (nÊe Scott) with Major Stuart Dicker out of Dorchester in 1980 and last appointment chaplains, Granby Centre, York House and St Bricin’s, Dublin O Major Keith Johnson out of Merthyr Tydfil in 1977 and last appointment Regional Chaplaincy Officer (HSU Central Region) O Major Denis Lomax with Major Olive Lomax (nÊe Baird) out of Prescot in 22

Salvationist 22 August 2020

1976 and last appointment North Scotland DHQ O Major Jean McDevitte (nĂŠe Bryson) out of Burnbank in 1976 and last appointment Christchurch O Major Jean Midwinter (nĂŠe Davis) out of Burnley Accrington Road in 1983 and last appointment East Scotland DHQ O Major Dawn Mizon (nĂŠe Harrison) out of Droitwich in 1978 and last appointment chaplain, William Booth Centre Lifehouse, Birmingham O Captain Kathryn Reynolds (nĂŠe Withers) out of Stratford upon Avon in 2009 and last appointment West Midlands DHQ ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

WHAT’S ON SONGS OF PRAISE The work of The Salvation Army is the subject of a special episode of Songs Of Praise on 23 August. The programme will include a feature on Lieutenant Daniel Holland (THQ), who returned to nursing in the NHS – working on a Covid-19 ward – and shows how the Hadleigh Farm Estate has responded since lockdown by providing a food distribution centre for corps in south Essex. The International Staff Songsters also take part, and their leader Dorothy Nancekievill and member Lesley Nicholson, who is a prison chaplain, are interviewed. Timbreltastic are featured, as well as two congregational songs recorded in 2015 at Sale.

O Songs Of Praise is broadcast on BBC One at 1.15 pm on 23 August and available to watch after broadcast in the UK on bbc.co.uk/iplayer THE ALL TERRAIN PODCAST In the latest episode of the Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit podcast, Area Commander Major Marion Platt (Memphis and the Mid-West, USA Southern Territory) speaks candidly about racism and how it has affected his life.

O Listen to this and previous episodes on Podbean, Apple Podcasts or Spotify Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes should be no longer than 150 words. Please do not send your copy to any individual as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy. org.uk

TRIBUTES EDNA THIRLAWAY, WEST CORNFORTH EDNA was born into a Salvationist family and dedicated her life to serving the Lord at the corps.

She was enrolled as a soldier in January 1959 and was commissioned as a songster ten months later.

She married Lawrence in December 1958 and they had two sons, Alan and Colin. Edna was commissioned as songster leader in 1988, and even as her health deteriorated in later years she still carried out this role with complete dedication.

She was very active in the corps and enjoyed collecting at Christmas with the band, at Little Chef for the annual appeal and at Barnard Castle on flag days.

When ill health meant she could no longer be active, her Christian beliefs continued to shine through until the very end. Edna is greatly missed by her family and friends. – MT JENNIFER ELLIOTT, COVENTRY CITY JENNIFER grew up at Buckingham Corps with her parents, where she joined the primary, Sunbeams and singing company.

She later enrolled as a soldier, joined the songsters and became primary sergeant.

Jennifer transferred to Coventry City and in 1971 married Ken Elliott. They had two children, Kelvin and Rachel.

Jennifer enjoyed singing in the songsters and later became a songster reservist. In retirement she enjoyed volunteering in the community cafĂŠ.

For many years Jennifer looked after Ken, who suffered from poor health.

She is remembered for her beautiful smile and sense of humour. She passed away peacefully at home after a short illness.

Jennifer’s faith shone in her witness to family and friends who cared for her.

She loved the Lord and was a faithful servant of Christ.

She is greatly missed and is now resting in the safe arms of Jesus. – VS

ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist

22 August 2020

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

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

Let your living water flow over my soul, Let your Holy Spirit come and take control Of every situation that has troubled my mind, All my cares and burdens on to you I roll

Northampton

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

King David. I love music, singing and dancing. At least he would understand my passion.

How did you first come into contact with the Army?

My grandad was an officer, so my parents went to The Salvation Army and so did I.

If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be?

Saved to save – that is my life motto.

God loves me, so why not extend that love?

What made you want to become a soldier?

From a young age I really wanted to be a soldier. My grandfather’s passion rubbed off on us; he loved sharing the word with all that had ears to listen.

I became a junior soldier aged 8 and a senior soldier at 17. I then married, and my husband was also in the Army.

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

Probably running, as the training would make me lose weight.

NYASHA CHINYANGANYA

What is your day job?

I am a nurse, working in clinical research.

What is the most interesting thing about your job – and the most difficult?

I love helping people, but I hate death and struggle to deal with loss.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I love the uniform, but I think it can be a deterrent for other people that would like to join.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

Somewhere sunny with a pool and lots of walking trails.

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

It would have to be Titanic. I would play Kate Winslet’s character, Rose.

What is your favourite food?

Cake, cake and more cake!

What do you do in your spare time?

I volunteer with older people. I am also working towards being a street pastor and will hopefully work with people experiencing homelessness too.

Apart from English, what languages do you speak?

Shona.

’’

What is your favourite Bible verse? ‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”’ (Jeremiah 29:11).

This verse reminds me of the need to take everything to the Lord in prayer and to trust him. He has good intentions for my life.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

Presently it is ‘Let Your Living Water Flow Over My Soul’.

Is there something you’ve never understood?

Death. I know we all have to die at some point, but sometimes the timing doesn’t seem right.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

Fighting.

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

The afro.

If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be?

It would have to be my favourite person at the moment. I am sure they will know who they are when they read this.

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

Be true to yourself.

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

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.

If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be?

‘Salt Of The Earth’ by Michael Mahendere.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My prayer journal.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I am a very chatty person. I love life and enjoy being around people. Most of my special friends are over 70.