Salvationist 22 February 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1744 Price 70p

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

Lent

A road of discovery

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

FIRST CHRISTIAN GARDEN AT CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

UNIVERSAL CREDIT COULD ‘STEAMROLL VULNERABLE INTO POVERTY’

Chelsea Flower Show will be home to a Christian garden for the first time this year.

Sponsored by the Bible Society, the theme of the garden will be based on Psalm 23.

Bible Society spokesperson, Hazel Southam, told The Sunday Telegraph: ‘We visited Chelsea last year and saw that banks and gin companies had a presence and decided there was no reason the Bible Society should not be in there. We decided that Psalm 23 should be the theme because it is beautiful and speaks to everybody.

We want our garden to be restorative and for people to see it and feel they can draw away from the busyness of life…’

In previous years there have been gardens inspired by other faiths, but this will be the first time a garden is inspired by the Christian faith, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

Sarah Eberle, a RHS gold medal-winning designer, plans to bring the psalm to life with her interpretation… The psalm’s ‘green pastures’ will be depicted by a meadow while ‘the valley of the shadow of death’ will be evoked by Dartmoor granite and deep shade…

The Queen will open the Chelsea Flower Show on 18 May. The Psalm 23 garden will be relocated to Winchester Hospice after the show ends on 23 May.

Thousands of vulnerable people on low incomes – particularly those with mental illness – are at risk of destitution because they do not have the skills or support to apply for and maintain a universal credit benefit claim, The Salvation Army has warned.

The Christian church and charity said there was ‘overwhelming evidence’ that many people found it a struggle to engage with the mainly digital benefit, leaving them unable to pay rent or buy food and effectively locking them out of employment support.

It called on the government to increase the level of support to make it simpler… to make a claim before the next phase of the… programme later this year, when about 750,000… claimants start to be moved on to the benefit.

‘Rolling out universal credit in its current form will steamroll vulnerable people into poverty, but the government has time to turn this around…’ said Rebecca Keating, The Salvation Army’s employment director.

Premier

Church Times

SALVATIONIST

The Guardian

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Salvationist 22 February 2020

Faith leaders in Scotland have committed to working together with the Scottish government and statutory services to eradicate human trafficking and modern day slavery in the country.

They signed a declaration recognising the existence of human trafficking in Scotland and condemning the exploitation of people as a ‘crime against humanity’.

Signatories came from the major church denominations in Scotland as well as the Muslim, Buddhist, Sikh, Hindu and Jewish communities.

They came together to identify areas of collaboration at a seminar… hosted

by Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland, a newly launched charity...

Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Humza Yousaf, was the keynote speaker at the seminar.

‘Faith-based organisations are at the very heart of communities, with the ability to make a difference in neighbourhoods and congregations,’ he told the faith leaders.

Christian Today

CLIMATE REPORT INSPIRES COMPOSITION Christian Aid has commissioned composers and musicians from around the world to create a new orchestral work inspired by the climate crisis.

The 12-minute piece, ‘Song Of The Prophets: A Requiem For The Climate’, is being composed by Chineke! – said to be the first majority-black and minority ethnic orchestra in Europe. It will have its premiere in St Paul’s Cathedral during Christian Aid Week (12–18 May)...

Climate change was having a ‘devastating impact’ on lives and livelihoods around the world, affecting food production, employment, education and women’s rights, the chief executive of Christian Aid, Amanda Khozi Mukwashi, said.

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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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CONTENTS

THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME THE image of a journey is often used to describe people’s lives and experiences. Some might say it is overused, but it does seem to be an appropriate way to describe the contents of this week’s Salvationist.

There are two articles that take us to various parts of the world. This month’s ‘In the zone’ feature introduces us to the Army in Switzerland, Austria and Hungary. In the coming months we will be touring European territories in the order in which the Army was established there. After France, Switzerland was the second country where the Booths’ eldest daughter Catherine, La Maréchale, began the Movement’s work.

Commissioner Jane Paone describes the Army’s present-day ministry there and in the territory as a whole.

Three other countries – Indonesia, Uganda and Canada – are highlighted in ‘God’s way with me’. Delegates from those countries, who are currently at the International College for Officers (ICO), tell their stories. I’m always fascinated to read how God has been at work in people’s lives, particularly in cultures and contexts very different from our own, and with challenges and opportunities with which we may not be familiar.

As well as discovering other parts of the world, a number of articles this week reveal the inner journey that people go on. In the ICO feature Captain Fred Okiru writes, ‘God is taking each of us on a journey of growth and transformation through our relationship with Jesus.’ He goes on to mention the disciples of Jesus who ‘left their nets immediately and followed him’.

The disciples travelled far and wide with Jesus, going to places and meeting people they perhaps never imagined they would. But they also travelled deep with him – discovering who he was, who they were, what he wanted them to be, what the Kingdom of God was like and what part they were to play in it.

That’s a journey we all need to take, and the start of Lent is a good time to focus on it. Lyndall Bywater helps us do that with a prayer journey that begins on Ash Wednesday. It’s an opportunity to explore the limitless love of God – ‘what it’s like, how we can experience it more deeply, how it can transform our relationships and how it can ignite mission in our corps’.

The article by Captain Daniel Diakanwa from the USA Eastern Territory reminds us that the disciples still had a lot to learn after Jesus had left them. He looks at Peter’s journey to meet Cornelius the centurion, where he made an inner journey by taking steps of neighbourly love and overcoming racial and ethnic discrimination. Daniel helpfully outlines four steps towards ‘multicultural holiness’ that we can take if we’re to go on a similar journey.

Wherever we travel in this world – whether that’s far and wide or within our own neighbourhoods – may we always seek to go deeper with Jesus, growing in our love for God and for others.

Mine to rise when thou dost call me, Lifelong though the journey be; Thine to measure all its windings, Leading step by step to thee.

I am thine, O Lord and Master, Thine to follow to the end.

Thou art mine, O Christ my Saviour, Guide and helper, lover, friend!

(SASB 661)

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Quotes from the media

2

News

4 to 7

Preview 8 The Salvation Army Year Book 2020 Resources A prayer journey for Lent

8

by Lyndall Bywater

Preview Territorial congress

9

by Ann Stewart

ICO feature God’s way with me

10 and 11

In the zone 12 and 13 Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory

Reflection Stepping towards multicultural holiness

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by Captain Daniel Diakanwa

Feature Ending rough sleeping for good

15

by Ryan Gow

Bible study 16 and 17 Words of encouragement

by Lieut-Colonel Julie Forrest

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

New commitments

18 and 19

Announcements

20 and 21

Adverts

21 to 23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Major Eddie Bland

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

Salvationist 22 February 2020

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NEWS

World leaders share and receive blessings INDIA NORTHERN TERRITORY SALVATIONISTS and friends shared with General Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle in a week of celebration, joy, encouragement, blessing and culture.

The international leaders visited Salvation Army schools in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh and Batala. Students presented dances, singing and dramatic performances. In Batala the General inaugurated a basketball court before playing a game with the school team. Commissioner Rosalie advised the students to trust in the Lord, never give up and always aim higher. The General told them: ‘Always remember that God will take care of you.’

The international visitors also spent time at MacRobert Hospital in Dhariwal, bringing words of encouragement to patients and staff.

A march of witness took place before a joy-filled children and

Brass Play Day makes a ‘joyful noise’ PLYMOUTH THE Devon and Cornwall Division hosted its second annual Brass Play Day, where 70 musicians, including 33 with no regular Salvation Army connection, joined to make a ‘joyful noise’.

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youth congress, attended by more than 2,000 young people.

The young people were reminded to flee from temptations, follow God and fight for what is right when they face difficulties. After the Bible message, more than 600 young seekers moved to the mercy seat and signed decision cards to show that they wanted to follow Jesus.

More than 2,000 women attended their own congress, where the presence of the Holy Spirit was felt as testimonies were shared. Commissioner Rosalie’s Bible message demonstrated how women can be powerful witnesses to God if they have a strong faith.

In public meetings, the General asked: ‘What does God require from us? He

Bandmaster Peter Woolway led the band through a rousing rendition of the march ‘Cairo Red Shield’ before handing over the baton to guest conductors, BM Kenneth Downie (Exeter Temple) and International Staff Bandmaster Stephen Cobb.

Kenneth led the band through his composition ‘Joy’, before Stephen conducted William

Himes’s rendition of ‘Elsa’s Procession To The Cathedral’.

Other items included ‘The Light Of The World’, ‘Praise To The Lord’, ‘The Firing Line’ and the reflective ‘The Lord’s My Shepherd’.

The band was formed last year to provide an opportunity for witness and fellowship across the division. – JS

Salvationist 22 February 2020

requires us to be his people today and every day.’

This challenge led 700 people to kneel at the mercy seat. More people rededicated their lives to God during the Sunday holiness meeting, where the international leaders called on The Salvation Army to fulfil God’s mission.

– AM/SM/AM

Chelmsford Home League Treasurer Christina McClure presents a cheque for £100 to Project Officer Lieutenant Heidie Bradbury (Bangladesh Command) for the Army’s work in the country Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

‘Milestone’ reached as developer buys 101 Newington Causeway

Homelessness project celebrates first anniversary MERTHYR TYDFIL

THQ THE Housing First project, run by the county borough council in partnership with the Army, celebrated its first anniversary.

The pioneering initiative is working to reduce the number of people experiencing homelessness in the town by helping rough sleepers move from the streets directly into their own homes, where they receive support in addressing issues such as substance misuse or poor mental health.

A celebration of the scheme’s first year, organised by the Army, was attended by the cabinet member for regeneration and public protection, Councillor Geraint Thomas, and Welsh

Dawn Bowden, Emma Paynter and Geraint Thomas

assembly member for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, Dawn Bowden.

Assistant Regional Manager (Wales and South West Homelessness Services) Emma Paynter said: ‘The feedback we have had from the people we work with on Merthyr Tydfil Housing First

has been overwhelming; lives have been transformed. People are moving into a new home … and they can see a future for themselves. We are investing all our energies to create the best environment and opportunity for a person to realise their potential and dreams.’ – IR CLEVEDON: The King’s Messengers drama group presented an evening of entertainment, comprising songs and excerpts from Salvation Army musicals. The evening was in memory of Sheila James, the group’s previous director. It was well attended and raised money towards props and lighting for the group. – PJ facebook.com/ salvationistonline @SalvationistUK

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL: The YP band played four pieces in a concert with Triumphant Brass, which also featured guest soloists Tom Nielsen (cornet) and Isobel Daws (trombone). The concert, put together

by Harry Browning as part of his course at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, featured a band formed of the conservatoire’s brass players and 18 Salvation Army band members from around the territory. – RO

THE Salvation Army has exchanged contracts with property developer Rockwell for 101 Newington Causeway in preparation for moving to a new territorial headquarters at Denmark Hill.

‘We are pleased to have reached this significant milestone on the journey to a THQ appropriate for the 21stcentury Salvation Army,’ said Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill.

‘The existing building has reached the end of its life and the cost to remain on the site was unaffordable. With the proceeds from the sale of 101 Newington Causeway, we aim for a cost neutral move, so the significant amounts entrusted to us by the public and our members are prioritised for people who need our help the most.’

The new, purpose-built THQ will be constructed next to William Booth College.

Demolition on two empty houses on the site has begun, with doors, kitchens, bathrooms and any salvageable items removed and recycled.

As material from roofs, floors and walls is dismantled, bricks and debris are being crushed for reuse in the foundations of the new building. In this way, 85 per cent of building materials will be recycled.

After a detailed review and discussions with Southwark borough council, The Salvation Army believes that Rockwell’s development at 101 Newington Causeway will complement the wider development of Elephant and Castle.

‘Rockwell has an absolute commitment to ensuring that local people benefit directly from each proposal,’ said Rockwell founder Donal Mulryan. – AR Salvationist 22 February 2020

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NEWS

STOWMARKET: Anglia Youth Band and Youth Chorus brought an evening of inspiration and blessing in aid of the children’s appeal for Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals Charity.

Soloists included Katy Woodhouse (vocal, Norwich Citadel), Ben Winton (flugelhorn, Felixstowe), Lean Martin (saxophone, Cambridge Citadel) and Max Moye (drums, Stowmarket).

Max organised the event as part of his GCSE music exam. He has nephrotic syndrome and has received treatment at Ipswich Hospital since he was a toddler.

He thanked staff for their support. Consultant Paediatrician Dr Jackie Buck gave an appeal

Art workshop raises awareness of loan sharks JAMES LEE HOUSE

before a cheque for £2,283 was presented to the charity. Pictured are Adrian and Joanne Moye,

Max, and Brian Taylor, the community and events manager for the charity. – MB

MERTHYR TYDFIL: The launch of the Self-Denial Appeal began with a Together in Praise Saturday evening programme. The event, led by Pentre Songster Leader Meryl Hoskins and Merthyr Tydfil Fellowship Band Leader Howard Roberts, included music items ‘On The Rock’ and ‘Happy Song’

by Pentre Songsters, and ‘Love Lifted Me’ by the united songsters. The band brought ‘Seize the Day!’ and ‘The Joy Of The Lord’. Guests Commissioners Joan and Mike Parker spoke of their time in Indonesia and led Sunday meetings on the theme The Joy Of Giving. – LB

A local business treats the Barrow-in-Furness community team to a rare meal out as a reward for its work over the past year

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Salvationist 22 February 2020

THE Salvation Army’s Lifehouse in Warrington has launched a new art workshop to raise awareness of illegal money lending.

James Lee House has been awarded a £3,800 grant from the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT). The money, which came from the proceeds of crime taken from convicted loan sharks, will help provide art therapy sessions, including the Stop Loan Sharks workshop. Participants will create an ‘army of sharks’ made from clay while discussing issues surrounding the use of illegal money lenders.

Loan sharks are not authorised to lend money by the Financial Conduct Authority, often giving cash loans to borrowers without paperwork and charging extortionate interest rates.

Tony Quigley, head of the IMLT, said: ‘It’s important to highlight the dangers of illegal money lending, as it usually leads to people getting into even greater debt.’

James Lee House has been part of the Warrington community for more than 50 years and provides 54 beds for men and women over the age of 18 experiencing homelessness. It holds a regular programme of activities aimed at empowering residents. – AR O To report a loan shark, call the 24-hour helpline on 0300 555 2222 or visit stoploansharks.co.uk

Territory to be equipped for mission THQ

During her retirement meeting at Leigh-on-Sea, Major Amanda Slader receives a Recognition of Service certificate from Assistant Principal (Development) Lieut-Colonel Karen Shakespeare (WBC)

Kathleen Randall (centre) thanks St Day Line Dancers for their donation of £300 towards Redruth’s community work

CHESTER-LE-STREET: The corps hosted the annual church service of 1507 Chester-le-Street squadron of the Air Training Corps.

The squadron’s padre, corps officer Major Liz Hancock, enrolled a number of junior cadets and presented certificates. Three cadets brought Bible readings. – GC

SIGNIFICANT work is under way to address a number of complex issues raised during the Fit for Mission (FFM) Review.

The FFM Review Team began its work in early 2018 and made recommendations for the way forward in June 2019.

As far as possible, existing boards, councils and groups have taken ownership of these recommendations. For example, an external review of the Property and Facilities Service has identified areas for improvement.

These are being addressed by Territorial Property Director Philip Scott and his team.

In addition, Chief Secretary Colonel Lee Graves has appointed three groups to address other issues affecting the territory.

The Structure Development Steering Group is chaired by Lieut-Colonel Mike Highton, who recently retired after serving as a divisional commander for 17 years and as a director of the Salvation Army Trustee Company (SATCo) for 3 years.

The group will consider the opportunities that the recommendations relating to potential structural change can offer.

Almost all the people on the group are officers with divisional or corps appointments. The steering group has held its first two-day meeting and is planning to finalise its report by the autumn.

The Identity Task Force is co-chaired by Secretary for Mission Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe and Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant. It has been appointed for a limited time to clarify the identity of The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland and propose systems, tools and resources to enable greater alignment across the territory in terms of what

and how the territory communicates. The group is expected to complete its work by July.

The third group is the Stewardship Principles Group, which is chaired by Assistant Chief Secretary Major Howard Russell and mainly comprises THQ staff who oversee the raising and apportioning of Salvation Army funds. The group is charged with developing a framework based on sound fiscal principles to guide leaders and managers in the use of money.

This framework will help leaders invest in mission priorities. The principles will be shared with all budget holders across the territory to ensure as many voices as possible are able to speak into and affirm them. An approved framework is expected to be ready for use in the development of budgets for the financial year beginning April 2021.

The directors of SATCo and members of the Cabinet are being kept fully engaged with this work.

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill comments: ‘This work is not simply a consequence of the Fit for Mission Review and its recommendations. The territory is prioritising these matters because we want to honour Christ and be obedient to God’s leading. We have put processes in place but we need the continuing guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We do not yet know all the answers.

‘I encourage everyone connected to The Salvation Army to pray regularly for the various groups, councils, boards and individuals who are grappling with these Kingdom matters. Discernment, good governance and good management are essential to ensure The Salvation Army in the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland is equipped to fully engage in God’s mission to the world and experience the immeasurably more that God has in store.’ – AR Salvationist 22 February 2020

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PREVIEW

RESOURCES I A prayer journey for Lent

Living limitless love ACCORDING to General Brian Peddle’s foreword, The Salvation Army Year Book 2020 is ‘a statistical and programmatic representation of The Salvation Army’, but the facts and figures are ‘of little value if they are not saturated with the pervading presence of a holy God’.

The 368-page publication includes details of the Army’s work and ministry in 131 countries, supported by reports, articles, colour maps and vibrant photographs. International overviews sit alongside profiles of every territory, command and region, together with historical information and a helpful glossary.

This year’s fold-out cover highlights General Brian Peddle’s Call to Mission, which is explained in one of four in-depth articles.

Other articles include ‘Gender equity emphasised in The Salvation Army’ by European Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Eva Kleman and ‘Women’s Ministries responds to holy urging with Reimagining initiative’ by World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle.

There is also a feature on the Army’s response to the humanitarian crisis along the USA and Mexico border.

‘I celebrate the ministry of The Salvation Army,’ writes the General. ‘I am privileged to lead this international Movement and I thank God for his faithfulness and his hand of blessing.’

O The

Salvation Army Year Book 2020 is available from SP&S priced £7.99 (plus postage and packaging). It can be purchased as an ebook from amazon.co.uk or kobo.com 8

Salvationist 22 February 2020

by Territorial Prayer Consultant Lyndall Bywater

‘P

AUL boils it all down for the believers in Corinth.

Religious people often spend their time practising rituals, projecting dogma, and going through routines that might look like Christianity on the outside but that lack the essential ingredient that brings all of it together – love! It is a loving God who birthed creation and now pursues a broken people in the most spectacular way.

That same love must guide believers, so faith doesn’t appear to be meaningless noise’ (note on 1 Corinthians 13 The Voice).

This prayer journey is all about the limitless love of God. Based on 1 Corinthians 13:4–7, it is designed to help us reflect on that love: what it’s like, how we can experience it more deeply, how it can transform our relationships and how it can ignite mission in our corps.

Each day has a thought, a question, a prayer request or a prayer, and we hope you will find time to reflect, pray and listen to God as you work your way through them. Every Saturday there is a local mission prayer focus written by guest writers, according to the theme of the week.

May this dive into limitless love refresh your walk with God and your heart for his world.

LOVE TAKES TIME Wednesday 26 February ‘And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God’ (Ephesians 3:17–19).

Lord, as we embark on this Lenten journey, we make Paul’s prayer our own. By your power, may we know your limitless love.

LIFELONG LOVE Thursday 27 February ‘You have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth’ (Psalm 71:5).

Father God, you have been a constant companion on my road through life, lighting my way and holding my hand. You have walked with me through good times and bad and you have been unfailingly patient with me. Today I say thank you, and take time to remember those moments when I’ve experienced your limitless love.

TAKING TIME, MAKING TIME Friday 28 February ‘Love is patient’ (1 Corinthians 13:4).

Relationships take time. Is there a friendship you’ve been neglecting because of busyness or avoiding because of unresolved conflict?

Why not get in touch with the person today and make time to meet up? Pray that God will guide your conversation; that he’ll help you make peace where there’s tension, and find new rhythms that make your friendship sustainable in the midst of busy lives.

STRAWBERRY FIELD: BUILDING COMMUNITY TOGETHER Saturday 29 February ‘I’m Captain Louise Brown, the Fresh Expressions leader at Strawberry Field, a unique project bringing together a Steps to Work programme for young people, a visitor experience and a fresh expression of Salvation Army church. I see love shown in so many ways: by the young people we work with and by the volunteers who give their time so generously and patiently.’

Pray that God will continue to move by the power of his Spirit to build connections and community, so that many more lives will be transformed over the coming years.

O A prayer

journey for Lent appears in Prayer Matters and at facebook.com/groups/ SA.prayer.networkUKI

PREVIEW

A life-changing opportunity Ann Stewart introduces the theme of this year’s territorial congress

L

IGHT, Life And Love is the theme and focus of the territorial congress, which will take place on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October at the International Convention Centre Wales in Newport.

There is an open invitation to come together as a Salvation Army family to praise, to pray and to glorify God. Join with hundreds of people who want to grow in their faith and be equipped to share the good news of God’s love in their lives and communities. This is a not-to-be missed opportunity to meet like-minded people, discuss the big questions and be resourced to explore your faith and ministry.

There will be workshops, talks, creative arts, prayer and passionate worship – including a Saturday gospel celebration, Sunday morning holiness teaching and a Sunday afternoon sending-out meeting to conclude the weekend.

There will also be sessions and activities for youth aged 12 to 17 and a children’s congress for those aged 5 to 11.

The inspiring theme for the congress weekend was chosen by Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill after reflecting on the words of General Albert Orsborn:

Commissioner Anthony says: ‘Light, life and love are powerful words that will be reflected in many ways across the weekend. With so much uncertainty in the world, our gathering in October will be an opportunity to rest and be refreshed in God’s

Pictures: ANDREW KING PHOTOGRAPHY

Light, life and love are in that healing fountain, All I require to cleanse me and restore; Flow through my soul, redeem its desert places, And make a garden there for the Lord I adore.

(SASB 742)

presence as we worship, pray and study his word. There will be time to give thanks for who and where we are as a church, and to mobilise and equip ourselves for being part of God’s plan for his Kingdom here and now.

‘We are called to be a Salvation Army where God is glorified and visibly at work, shaping us into disciples of Jesus Christ. If you are ready to find out more about this life then come along to congress – and bring someone else too! I particularly encourage corps and Lifehouses to bring people needing to hear the gospel story.

‘Those of us who are old enough to remember the Roots gatherings will recall the powerful impact they had on our own faith and on our Movement as a whole. There were many different expressions under the big tent, but everyone was united in the desire to grow in faith and develop a closer relationship with God. ‘Our congress in Newport will also have something for everyone and all ages. So come ready to receive and be open to the speaking of the Spirit.

Congress really is a life-changing opportunity to deepen our relationships with God and to introduce someone to the gospel message for the first time. It is exciting to look ahead and imagine what God has in store!

‘Save the date in your diary. And pray now for the organisers, speakers and participants, and that the whole occasion will be God-inspired, Spirit-filled and Christ-centred.’

Tickets for the territorial congress are expected to go on sale by May. Look out for further details in future issues of Salvationist and on the territory’s website: salvationarmy.org.uk/ territorial-congress-2020 ANN IS INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER, THQ Salvationist 22 February 2020

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FEATURE ICO testimonies

GOD’S WAY WITH ME Three delegates from the 244th session at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development share their testimonies

neurological check. I was able to receive the necessary medication and the Lord healed me.

After my commissioning in 2003 I was appointed as staff officer in the Finance Department for three years. Then I worked in finance at Catherine Booth Hospital before returning to THQ in 2007.

In 2009 I married Captain Yudawan Lesbasa and followed him to his appointment at Jayapura Corps in eastern Indonesia.

After time spent at Jayapura and Surabaya 3 Corps we were appointed to Woodward Hospital in Palu. During our appointment God blessed us with a son, Godwin Rafael.

In 2012, when Godwin was a year old, we were transferred to Boya Corps in the Kulawi Division, then four years later I received a dual assignment with an additional finance role.

The Boya Corps building was officially opened in July 2018. Two months later, however, an earthquake struck Central Sulawesi and the church suffered great damage. Yet our congregation remains faithful to our Lord.

Currently, I am serving as divisional secretary for business administration in the Jawa and Bali Division, while my husband serves as divisional secretary.

As in every appointment, we long to live for the Lord, and for God to make a great impact through us.

CAPTAIN FRED OKIRU Uganda Territory

MAJOR ANNA MARIA LAUISA Indonesia Territory My Lord is a God of miracles I WAS born in Bandung, Indonesia, and grew up in a family of believers who were active in serving God at Bandung 3 Corps.

In November 1997 the corps held a young people’s meeting, and a sermon taken from Hebrews 4:7 touched me in a big way. The verse includes the words, ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.’ Since then God’s word has spoken continually in my life, and in the year 2000 I answered his call.

I had been working in the Finance 10

Salvationist 22 February 2020

Department at THQ for four years when I filled in the application form for officership. In 2001 I entered the training college as a cadet in the Believers Session.

I learnt so many lessons at the college but while I was there an illness, caused by an accident when I was a child, struck a blow to my head. I was diagnosed with an intracranial stenosis, which is a narrowing of an artery inside the brain. This scared and worried me.

I was often in pain. But my Lord is a God of miracles and he revealed his glory while I underwent field training at Catherine Booth Hospital in Makassar in 2002. The hospital trustee officer took me to a nerve specialist for a

My life has been transformed MY testimony is about God’s love and transforming power. I once lived without God – in perpetual worry, without purpose and without hope. But God loved me and wanted a personal relationship with me. He had a purpose for my life.

For years God lovingly pursued me without me realising it, until finally I found him. Then he began patiently and carefully working change in me. Now I can testify that I am not the same person. My life has been transformed by the power of God’s word.

I have come a long way from the time I allowed God to come into my life, and I still have a long way to go, but the good news is that God never stops loving me and changing me in his gentle way.

I appeal to all my friends out there to see that God is taking each of us on a journey of growth and transformation through our relationship with Jesus. But we must be prepared to go where he leads. When Jesus called his disciples and said ‘follow me’ we are told that they left their nets immediately and followed him.

But this was only the beginning, and we read something of their journeys in the Gospels. They still made mistakes, they still struggled to understand. At times they turned away. But they continued to grow and be transformed.

They had to make that initial decision to follow Jesus and then keep going.

During my stay here at the ICO I have wanted a daily transformation.

The opportunities have been there every single day for me to be transformed. Transformation comes bit by bit, by putting my old, sinful nature to death. In the diverse situations that come into my life each day, I find that impatience, jealousy, anger, lust, selfishness and pride show themselves in me. By denying these thoughts and refusing to let them fester and grow, I put them to death as Paul urges us to do in Colossians 3:5. I offer it up to God

‘

God never stops loving me and changing me in his gentle way

’

and let him transform that piece of me.

Transformation is a daily occurrence, not some magical spell that God will do way down the road when I am older.

I am not the same person today as I was yesterday. Often the changes are small and there’s a long way to go. But if I can’t see my transformation from day to day, then I can look back a week, a month or six months and see that I’ve taken another step on the narrow way.

MAJOR MÉLISA TARDIF Canada and Bermuda Territory I felt like I was floating!

WHEN I was growing up God always had an important place in my family. We went to church every Sunday and were involved in the choir.

At the age of 10 I decided to dedicate my life to God. At a café meeting the guest shared with us his experience with God. He explained how God, in his love, sent Jesus to die on the cross so that I could have life. Jesus did not deserve to die because he had never done anything wrong. He was the only one who could pay for the consequence of my sins. Jesus agreed to suffer for me, to take my place so that my relationship with God would be restored and I would have eternal life.

I was deeply touched that night by those words. Even though I had always been an ordinary girl, I was fully aware of my sins and realised the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice for me. I asked him for

forgiveness and I invited him to live in me and guide my life. That was the beginning of a new life. I felt like I was floating! I had a deep joy in me that I had never experienced before.

I was around the age of 15 when we moved to Quebec City and I came to know The Salvation Army. I attended the corps and became involved in the activities there. I had the privilege of working at the Army’s Camp Lac l’Achigan for several summers in various positions, including kitchen helper, sports director and chaplain.

The camp was an enriching experience for me.

One evening I knelt down by my bed.

I had been feeling weird all day, so prayed to God to tell me what was wrong with me. That very night God called me to be an officer. My first reaction was to cry because I didn’t want to. God was disrupting what I thought was my career plan. I had undertaken studies in animal health but clearly my plan was not God’s plan.

I have now been an officer in The Salvation Army for 17 years – for several years as a corps officer and now as divisional secretary of finance at DHQ in Quebec.

Why would someone dedicate their life to serve God through the Army?

I like to do good and be a source of comfort and encouragement to the people around me. Helping my neighbour gives me joy and makes me feel useful to society. Saved to serve – this is what God has called me to do.

Salvationist 22 February 2020

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IN THE

ZONE Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory

Holistic ministry in Christ’s name

How well do you know The Salvation Army’s Europe Zone? This month Commissioner Jane Paone gives an overview of the Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory

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WITZERLAND, Austria and Hungary are not just about Rolex watches, chocolate, fondue, goulash, beautiful architecture and music and Roger Federer. These three countries are linked together through holistic ministry in Christ’s name.

Although Switzerland is a small country geographically, it has been blessed, and is able to share many of its blessings through those who invest themselves in the lives of others, as well as those who give financially.

The Army has social justice representatives connected with two of the main United Nations offices situated in this territory – the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Office on Drugs and Crime in Vienna, Austria – and the territory is taking the UN Sustainable Development

THE TERRITORY AT A GLANCE

Simply Organized

Simply Organized

2,269 Soldiers 1,316 Adherent Members 240 Junior Soldiers 61 Corps 4 Outposts 360 Officers (152 active, 208 retired)

2 Auxiliary-Captains 10 Cadets 2,112 Employees 12

Salvationist 22 February 2020

‘What if...?’ day Goals into consideration.

The five-year territorial strategy, launched in January 2019, places Jesus at the centre of all we do and are. The aim is to communicate Christ’s living presence to the people we meet daily in whatever language they speak.

In 1982 Bern city council requested help from The Salvation Army in taking care of Tamil refugees fleeing Sri Lanka.

In 2015, with a greater influx of refugees, corps were asked to respond while extra centres were prepared. At one point the Army was caring for 3,500 refugees in centres where we had responsibility for providing support. Through language classes and employment training, and much interaction with our charity shops, corps and volunteers, these ‘strangers’ have become friends. Ensuring integration is an ongoing adventure.

In Vienna the Army is highly respected for its Housing First programme, providing homes where people find stability, follow-up care and hope for the future. Part of the city’s Wintergarten officially opened in June 2019 as a day centre for people in need, from Monday to Friday. Since these premises are empty at the weekend, our goal is to use this space for a new corps opening in the city centre.

The Brocki charity shops use the

Commissioning slogan ‘second hand makes happy’ – a reference to their economic and ecological benefits. More than a million customers visit the 19 shops across Switzerland each year. Bridges are being built between corps and Brockis.

One Sunday morning meeting took place in the Geneva charity shop.

Another, located in an area of Zurich with vibrant nightlife, was opened for evening concerts – brass band, rock, folk – that attracted many people. A new Brocki opened last year, giving an opportunity for mission to people in the Solothurn area.

Genuine human interest and a simple prayer can make a huge impact to the life of a person and to a community. Last year the police approached the corps officer at Zurich Oberland to ask for an Army presence during the Christmas

HISTORY ON 10 December 1882 Salvation Army operations were commenced in Geneva by La Maréchale, Catherine Booth, and Colonel Arthur Clibborn. Bitter opposition was encountered but now the Army is recognised as an evangelistic and social force throughout the Confederation.

Work commenced in Austria on 27 May 1927 in Vienna, and was legally recognised by the Austrian Federal Ministry on 8 May 1952.

The Salvation Army’s operations in Hungary commenced on 26 April 1924 and were maintained until suppressed in 1950. The Salvation Army was officially re-established on 3 November 1990 by General Eva Burrows.

Commissioners Massimo and Jane Paone at Chikankata

Ladies Day fashion sh

ow

market. They had noticed that, since the regular visits of the prayer team to the parks of the town, the crime rate had dropped. The corps agreed to be at the Christmas market only if they could have a portable chapel to invite people to pray. Their wish was granted and life-transforming conversations took place.

With the desire to link corps with the Prison Services, an initiative was launched for Mother’s Day. Through the Prison Services’ Angehört (people in your circle) project, where families of prisoners are also cared for, it was

noticed that children had little to do while waiting to visit parents. So, corps families were asked to send illustrated children’s books to Prison Services. This practical outreach made Salvationists reflect on the reality that Mother’s Day can be challenging for some families.

The generous response resulted in books being distributed to prison waiting rooms. Several new books were given to fathers, who then offered them as birthday gifts to their children when they visited them.

An intergenerational focus is part of the territorial strategy. During the triennial Ladies Day a special offer was made to mothers who came along with their daughters for a day of renewal called ‘To Be and to Shine’.

Youth groups and older people from corps in Switzerland have participated in mission trips to Hungary. The exchange of these two cultures has proved beneficial for all. Friendships continue long after those visits. One young person testified to her life being changed by being part of the mission team to a Roma village where there is a vibrant Army outreach.

Many corps use a translation of the book To Serve as a resource to prepare people for soldiership. Following many prayers and the ‘What if…?’ recruitment campaign, the territory has rejoiced to see new candidates for officership.

Seven officers were commissioned in June 2018 and ten cadets are currently in training and will be commissioned this year. The preparation of candidates for the next session looks encouraging.

The Swiss International Development team visits and organises various projects in other territories, and last summer the territorial leaders were able to see first-hand the importance of partnerships. Wash projects in Zambia and Zimbabwe were officially opened, as well as a new mothers’ shelter at Chikankata hospital.

Territorial Commander Commissioner Massimo Paone says: ‘If the Lord has blessed this territory economically and with human resources, then we really need to ask ourselves what we are doing with this blessing. If God has been so generous towards us, then we must surely give to others. It is in giving that we receive.’

COMMISSIONER PAONE IS TERRITORIAL PRESIDENT OF WOMEN’S MINISTRIES, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND HUNGARY Salvationist 22 February 2020

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REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI TION TI REFLECTION EC ON

Stepping towards multicultural holiness Captain Daniel Diakanwa considers how we love others as ourselves

J

OHN Wesley’s definition of sanctification arguably remains the most comprehensive and biblical.

He said entire sanctification means ‘pure love’. In A Plain Account Of Christian Perfection he wrote: ‘It is nothing higher and nothing lower than this – the pure love of God and man; the loving God with all our heart and soul, and our neighbour as ourselves. It is love governing the heart and life, running through all our tempers, words and actions.’

Multicultural holiness is one’s genuine love for people of all cultures and races. It recognises that God is the author of diversity, as displayed in the Trinity and in creation, and that all humans are created equal in God’s image and likeness.

All humans have a certain level of prejudice because of their inborn sin.

Racial and ethnic discrimination was prevalent in New Testament days between the Jews and the Gentiles and continues to exist throughout the world.

But Acts 10 shows four steps towards multicultural holiness that can help Christians change their ethnocentric attitudes.

A CHANGE OF HEART Acts 10:11–15 indicates that Peter had a vision in which he saw Heaven opened and what looked like a large sheet containing all sorts of animals lowered to Earth.

A voice told him: ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’ Peter replied: ‘Surely not, Lord!

I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.’ Then he heard the voice again: ‘Do not call anything impure that God

has made clean.’ It was necessary for God to confront Peter’s ethnocentrism to bring change in his heart and in his attitude towards non-Jewish Christians.

David said: ‘Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting’ (Psalm 139:23 and 24).

We need to be willing to allow God to search us and test us so that we can have a change of heart.

OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD In response to God’s command, Peter went to Caesarea to meet Cornelius the centurion. Jews were not allowed to associate with Gentiles but, out of obedience to God, Peter went and entered the house of Cornelius. He recognised that ‘God does not show favouritism’ (Acts 10:34).

Cornelius was not a Jew, although he was a God-fearing Gentile who gained the respect of the Jews in his community. Discrimination against people from other races and ethnic groups is a lack of obedience to God’s word, where the command is to ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ (Matthew 22:39).

HUMILITY TOWARDS ONE ANOTHER As Peter entered the house, Cornelius ‘fell at his feet in reverence’ (Acts 10:25). This act of humility was inappropriate for a high-ranking Roman officer. Peter humbly reacted: ‘Stand up, I am only a man myself’ (v26). As reflected in this encounter, multicultural holiness demands humility from both sides.

Although the Jews were under Roman occupation, Cornelius never showed arrogance towards Peter. He welcomed God’s servant with respect. Peter never expressed spiritual superiority or ethnocentrism towards Cornelius. He said: ‘You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile. But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean’ (v28).

ACCEPTANCE OF ONE ANOTHER In verses 34 and 35, Peter exclaimed: ‘I now realise how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.’ Peter had come to realise that God is just and accepts all people who fear him.

True acceptance treats diverse people with equality, so God expected Peter to accept and embrace Gentile believers as equals. God demonstrated how important the Gentile believers were by pouring out his Spirit upon them while Peter was preaching – something that ‘astonished’ the Jewish Christians who had accompanied him (v45).

The evidence of multicultural holiness in us is our genuine love for our diverse neighbours and for God. Although our obedience to God’s word may never eradicate our inborn prejudice, it can progressively make us less prejudiced as we strive to be like Jesus.

CAPTAIN DIAKANWA IS A RETIRED OFFICER IN THE USA EASTERN TERRITORY

CAMPAIGN I Rough sleeping

Ending rough sleeping for good Ryan Gow encourages us to write to our MPs as part of a Salvation Army campaign

S

UPPORTING people experiencing homelessness is one of the major services of The Salvation Army. We have a network of Lifehouses supporting more than 3,000 people who have either experienced rough sleeping or are at risk of it.

People who come to stay at our Lifehouses face a range of challenges.

Some might have had an adverse childhood experience. Others might have mental health problems or a history of addiction. The Army’s Homelessness Services Unit works with people to overcome these challenges and give them support in areas such as money management.

The goal is to help people move on from this accommodation and become more independent.

As well as this work being driven by strong moral imperatives, supporting people who have experienced rough sleeping is good value for the taxpayer.

The government’s rough sleeping strategy estimates that rough sleeping can cost the taxpayer between £14,000 and £21,000 per head, per annum. This is due to costs such as visits to accident and emergency departments.

The annual cost of a place in one of our Lifehouses is £9,000. In 2018 only 4 per cent of the people who lived in our Lifehouses returned to rough sleeping, so this represents a major cost saving.

Supported housing, such as our Lifehouses, has previously been funded predominantly by the Supporting People programme. Unfortunately, since 2011 £1 billion has been removed from the programme as a result of local authority spending cuts. One consequence of this has been that we have had to cut the number of bed spaces in Lifehouses. In recent years London has experienced an increase in the number of people sleeping rough for up to two years and in the number of people who return to rough sleeping.

A positive development is that the Conservative Party’s general election manifesto has committed the new government to eliminating rough sleeping by 2025. This is a more ambitious timetable than the previous target of 2027. The Salvation Army is now looking for the government to back this commitment with the financial resources needed for its fulfilment.

The Salvation Army is running an online campaign asking Salvationists and Army supporters to write to their MP and call for the housing minister to prioritise this manifesto commitment.

The greatest impact will be made if MPs hear directly from their own constituents on this – if they know you care then they will care. We need to show ministers that there is widespread support for this pledge.

Unless the government takes action

now it will not meet its self-imposed target to end rough sleeping. It was not on track to meet the previous target of 2027 and it is not on track to meet this new one. If ministers know that MPs will be holding them to the manifesto commitment, then the government will have to act. That is why we need people in corps, our service staff and our other employees to take this action.

Supporting our campaign will only take a minute and could make all the difference.

To take part go to salvationarmy.org. uk and search for ‘rough sleeping campaign’ or go directly to action. salvationarmy.org.uk/page/54432 O For more information email countmein@salvationarmy.org.uk O

RYAN IS A PUBLIC AFFAIRS ADVISER, PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND SOCIAL POLICY UNIT, THQ Salvationist 22 February 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

Words of encouragement Lieut-Colonel Julie Forrest reminds us of the possibility of spiritual growth in hard times STUDY PASSAGE: PHILIPPIANS 1

F

OR many years, the lyrics of the song ‘His Provision’ (SASB 316) have been special to me. General John Gowans had an incredible ability to articulate in poems and lyrics the human condition and our connection to God: ‘At the moment of my weakness,/ When my need for power is plain,/ And my own strength is exhausted once again… When the darkness falls around me,/ When bewildered and afraid,/ When I feel the most deserted and betrayed.’

Each time I sing that song, I never fail to be aware that for someone, there is an echo of a line or a phrase that they identify with because of some situation they are facing – a financial concern, bereavement, loss, relationship breakdown, anxiety or work. John Gowans touches suffering and pain with a realness with which we can all identify.

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

by Major Howard Webber

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Salvationist 22 February 2020

QUESTIONS O Are there any phrases from ‘His Provision’ that you identify with now?

O If so, in what ways are you suffering?

In Philippians 1:12 – 26, Paul writes from a place of uncertainty; he has been imprisoned and is in chains. He doesn’t have a prison sentence, but he waits, unsure whether he will be freed or sentenced to death. Yet Paul seeks joy in a time of great suffering.

The attitude we have towards our circumstances has a huge impact on how we deal with adversity. I am often challenged and encouraged when people are able to testify to choosing joy to accompany them on a difficult pathway they need to face. It doesn’t mean the suffering goes away but, by choosing to seek out joy each day, God can be glorified in suffering.

During Lent, our minds often turn to Jesus as our suffering servant. His

obedience took him to the cross so that we can be free. Jesus experienced physical, emotional and spiritual pain.

He identifies with us and understands our suffering.

We can know Jesus better in our suffering: ‘Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead.

You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am.

Don’t run from suffering; embrace it.

Follow me and I’ll show you how”’ (Mark 8:34 The Message).

QUESTION O What does it look like to embrace suffering and not run from it?

When difficulties come our way and we find ourselves out of control, how often do we hear phrases such as ‘I didn’t see this coming’, ‘I’m not in control’, ‘I didn’t plan for this’ or ‘This situation is overwhelming’? In such

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ – the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

(Philippians 3:8 and 9)

Now my heart’s desire is to know you more,/ To be found in you and known as yours,/ To possess by faith what I could not earn,/ All-surpassing gift of righteousness.

(SASB 565)

I want to know Christ – yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.

(Philippians 3:10)

times we can surrender the situation to God in prayer.

In our suffering, John Gowans offers words of hope: ‘Then my Lord has made provision for the day of my despair,/ And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer./ Holy Spirit!

Promised presence fall on me./ Holy Spirit! Make me all I long to be./ Holy Spirit! Holy Spirit!/ Give your power to me O Holy Spirit.’

I sense that he writes from personal experience of the beauty in knowing that God’s Holy Spirit meets our needs and lifts us up again. God is with us. God hears our prayer. The Holy Spirit is with us.

Paul tells the Philippians: ‘In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy… And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be

pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God’ (vv4, 9 –11).

This prayer speaks of spiritual growth and maturity, reflecting Paul’s personal spiritual experience – when we are weak, we become strong through the presence of God’s Holy Spirit.

In The Message Devotional Bible, Eugene Peterson writes: ‘A life that begins with prayer is the result of an understanding and a decision – an understanding that God is personally involved in everything that’s going on in me and in the world, and a decision that I want to participate in it on his terms.’

QUESTIONS O In what ways can we grow spiritually when we suffer?

O Which fruit of the Spirit can we grow?

Even though we may have a sense that God is with us in our suffering, it can still be a struggle; we need to go daily to him for strength.

Paul brings words of encouragement: ‘But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed’ (2 Corinthians 4:7–10).

LIEUT-COLONEL FORREST IS INTERNATIONAL LIAISON OFFICER FOR DIALOGUE ON HUMAN SEXUALITY, IHQ

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

O, to know the power of your risen life,/ And to know you in your sufferings,/ To become like you in your death, my Lord,/ So with you to live and never die.

(SASB 565)

But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

(1 Peter 2:20 and 21)

There is strength in knowing Jesus/ When your heart is bowed with care,/ ’Mid the problems that distress you;/ O what joy to feel him there!

(SASB 679)

Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.

(2 Timothy 2:3 and 4)

Prayer

Lord Jesus, it is a natural thing to run in fear from the threat of possible suffering. Please give me the courage to neither run nor react in an un-Christlike manner to any injustice, unpleasantness or pain I may face, but to remember your willingness to suffer for me.

Salvationist 22 February 2020

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NEW COMMITMENTS

SHOTTS: Jacqui Malone was enrolled as a soldier on Vision and Commitment Sunday.

Jacqui believes the Spirit led her to the Army. She first linked up with the corps through a coffee morning. Welcomed as an adherent member last year, she decided to be wholly available to God and commit to soldiership. Jacqui testified to being enveloped by warmth on a night when she was seriously ill; she was healed and has not touched a drop of alcohol since. Jacqui is pictured with corps officer Lieutenant Amy-Jo Battersby and her prayer partner, Marilyn Aitken. – A-JB CHESTERFIELD: Corps officer Captain Elizabeth Di-Palma enrolled Carl Davidson as a soldier. Carl linked up with the corps after receiving an invitation from Pauline Perera while on a training course. – CD-P

Some photos removed

CARDIFF CANTON: Corps officer Major David McCaw-Aldworth enrolled Ezequiel Ribeiro as a junior soldier. – DM-A

COVENTRY CITY: Corps officer Major Val Spivey enrolled sisters Ruvarashe and Nokutenda Kandengwa as junior soldiers.

They said how much they enjoyed their preparation classes with Junior Soldiers Sergeant Sandra Chesney, and were prayed for by the other junior soldiers. Also pictured is Colour Sergeant Richard Thompson. – VS 18

Salvationist 22 February 2020

BATH TEMPLE: Father and son Eric and Charlie Dennett-Lewis were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Richard Knott. Charlie was invited to the Army by a friend. Eric initially attended to support Charlie in Sunday school but soon got more involved. Eric testified that his unique gifts are being used as part of God’s team at the corps. Charlie shared how God had spoken to him about his uniqueness; even though he experiences speech difficulties, he was reminded that God created him for a specific purpose and to let God’s light shine through his character. Many friends gathered to support them. – RK

CLACTON: Corps officer Major Barrie Sampson enrolled Finlay Caffull as a junior soldier on Vision and Commitment Sunday.

Also pictured is Major Maria Sampson. – VR

SWINDON GORSE HILL: Corps officer Captain Chris Hall welcomed Teresa Hardman as an adherent member. Also pictured is Captain Sandra Hall. – SH

LARNE: Corps officer Captain Philip Cole enrolled Billy and Margaret Hoey as soldiers on Vision and Commitment Sunday. Lifelong friends from neighbouring churches supported Billy and Margaret, who testified to God’s grace in their lives for many years. Also pictured are Captain Annemarie Cole and Colour Sergeant Peter Thompson. – PC

LEICESTER SOUTH: Martyn Woodward and Elaine Burn-Joyce were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Michelle LovegroveHuggins. Martyn testified to feeling God’s call to return to the active role he played some 30 years previously and valued being a cell group member. Elaine, although never ceasing to attend meetings, testified that the time was right for her to make a new commitment. Martyn’s wife, Lorraine, was welcomed as an adherent member, having attended the To Serve course with Martyn and become a cell group member. Also pictured are Recruiting Sergeant Maureen Stephenson and flag bearer Mike Black. – BB

DUNSTABLE: Corps officer Major Steve Brevitt welcomed Freya Baldock as an adherent member. Freya chose the song ‘In Christ Alone’ (SASB 861) and she was interviewed by Adherents Secretary Sue Leadbeater, who, as junior soldiers sergeant, had led Freya through junior soldier preparation classes nine years ago. Freya confirmed that she enjoyed being involved in the junior music sections and saw her decision to become an adherent member as the next stage in her Christian journey. – SB

PETERBOROUGH CITADEL: Corps officer Major Gary Chaundy enrolled his daughter, Molly Chaundy, as a soldier. Molly testified that trusting in God’s unfailing love is important to her. Molly met Jesus powerfully while on the Transformers youth leadership programme. – MH

FARNWORTH: Ella-Leigh Owen, Liam Masters, Esther Peachman and Declan Bethel were enrolled as junior soldiers.

Pictured with them are corps officer Major Carolyn Wilson and YPSM Marie Walkden.

Mother and daughter Sharon Eckersley and Leanne Ballantyne were welcomed as adherent members on the same day that Declan, Leanne’s son, was enrolled. This was the first time that three generations of a family had become members of the corps on the same day. Sharon and Leanne are pictured with Major Carolyn. – PW

LOUGHBOROUGH: Surrounded by family and friends, Hazel Simpson was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Marta Ager.

Newly enrolled Welcome Sergeant Colin Rouse held the flag and Mission Secretary Janine Parry read 2 Corinthians 9. Hazel, who helped put the programme together for the meeting, also introduced her grandson and daughter to the Army. – MA

MARKET RASEN: Susan Coles was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Territorial Envoy Terence Carpenter. After linking up with the corps in early 2019, Susan soon made herself at home. She brought with her a love of God’s word and is a regular contributor to the weekly Bible study group. – TC Salvationist 22 February 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff Effective 1 April O Lieutenants Richard and Heidie Bradbury, officers of the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland currently serving respectively as Business Administrator and Project Officer, Bangladesh Command, are appointed as General Secretary and Command Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Bangladesh Command.

They will take up their new appointments with the rank of captain.

They succeed Majors John and Lalthangmawii Rohmingliana, who will be taking up other appointment responsibilities in India.

Effective 1 May O Lieut-Colonels Garth and Patricia Niemand, officers of the Southern Africa Territory currently serving respectively as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries/Territorial Secretary for Leader Development, Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Territory. They will

take up their new appointments with the rank of colonel. They succeed Colonels Kelvin and Julie Alley, who will be retiring from active service.

O Major Hary Haran, officer of the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory currently serving as Secretary for Personnel in that territory, is appointed as Chief Secretary, Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory. He will take up his new appointment with the rank of lieut-colonel.

Effective 1 June O Colonels Daniel and Arschette Moukoko, officers of the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory currently serving respectively as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Mozambique Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Democratic Republic of Congo Territory. They will succeed Colonels Lucien and Marie Lamartinière, who will be taking up other appointment responsibilities.

O Colonels Moses and Sarah Wandulu, officers of the Uganda Territory currently serving respectively as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Malawi Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Mozambique Territory.

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory, Mon 17 Feb – Tu 25 O Aberdeen Citadel (140th corps anniversary), Fri 28 – Mon 2 Mar O Fairfield Halls, Croydon (ISS 40th anniversary), Sat 7 O Lisbon (international conference of leaders), Mon 16 – Mon 23 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O Fairfield Halls, Croydon (ISS 40th anniversary), Sat 7 Mar O Lisbon (international conference of leaders), Mon 16 – Tu 24 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Poole, Sat Sun 23 Feb O Warwick (youth and children’s workers conference), Sat Sun 1 Mar O Northampton (divisional leaders training and consultation), Sun 1 – Th 5 O Fairfield Halls, Croydon (ISS 40th anniversary), Sat 7 O Hendon, Sun 8 O North London (divisional event), Sun 8 O Ilford (Malachi Place opening), Sat 14 O Lisbon (international conference of leaders), Mon 16 – Tu 24 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES O Herts and Essex, Th Fri 28 Feb O Northampton (divisional leaders training and consultation), Sun 1 Mar – Th 5 O Fairfield Halls, Croydon (ISS 40th anniversary), Sat 7 O William Booth College (spiritual day with cadets), Wed 11 O West Scotland (officers retreat), Mon 16 – Wed 18 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND O Poole, Sat Sun 23 Feb INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS O Fairfield Halls, Croydon (ISS 40th anniversary), Sat 7 Mar O Croydon Citadel, Sun 8

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Salvationist 22 February 2020

Lieut-Colonels Alfred and Pamela Banda, officers of the Malawi Territory currently serving respectively as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries in that territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Malawi Territory. They will take up their new appointments with the rank of colonel.

O Lieut-Colonels Zothanmawia Khiangte and Vanlalnungi Thiak, officers of the India Eastern Territory currently serving respectively as Secretary for Programme Administration and Territorial Home League Secretary and Literature Secretary for Women’s Ministries/ Communications Secretary in that territory, are appointed as Officer Commanding and Command President of Women’s Ministries, Bangladesh Command. They will succeed Lieut-Colonels Alister and Nilanthi Philip, who will be taking up other appointments in their home territory.

O Majors Imran Sabir and Nighat Imran, officers of the Pakistan Territory currently serving respectively as Assistant Chief Secretary and Territorial Youth Secretary in that territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Pakistan Territory. They will take up their new appointments with the rank of lieut-colonel. They succeed LieutColonels Washington Daniel and Azra Washington, who will be retiring from active service.

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LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O CS Lin Anderson and CT Anne Brindley, both Banbury O CSM Pat Kane, CS Rosi Broad, Adherents Sec Carol Grant, CMS Harry Woods, CCMS Julie Cooper and Quartermaster Gordon Grant, all Great Yarmouth WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Majors Malcolm and Ann Holt (5Â March) Golden O Majors Peter and Dawn Disney (7Â March) O Majors David and Rita Jepson (7Â March)

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Linda Hamilton (85 on 3 March) BEREAVED O Hazel Austin, Southampton Sholing, of her husband Frank O Peter and Sylvia Etheridge, Worthing, of their son Jason, James Etheridge of his brother O Kathleen Chapman, Southampton Sholing, of her husband Michael O Mavis O’Connor, Birmingham Citadel, of her husband Malcolm, Rob O’Connor, Birmingham Citadel, and Steve O’Connor of their father O Songster Yvonne Park, Harwich, of her mother Ruth Barker

TRIBUTES MAJOR BETTY DRAKE BETTY Drake was born in 1924 in London, a thirdgeneration Salvationist and the second of three sisters. She began her career as a state enrolled nurse during the Second World War and,

in 1950, was commissioned as a Salvation Army officer.

Appointed to Social Services, she served in maternity homes and nurseries across the UK before joining the Women’s Social Services headquarters in London in 1969 until her retirement.

Betty and her sister, Pearl, moved to East Sussex, where Betty served at Eastbourne Citadel in children’s ministry for many years. She taught generations of young people in the Sunday school, encouraging them every week to make a difference in faith and life.

During her years as an officer, Betty faithfully gave her time, energy, devotion and love. In group prayers she would often end by saying: ‘We have much to be thankful for every day.’

She loved the Lord, her family and The Salvation Army. – DA Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

IVOR BURGOYNE, REDRUTH IVOR was commissioned into the YP band at Harlesden aged eight.

He joined the senior band at Plymouth Congress Hall in 1939 and became an accomplished horn player.

After his family lost their home in the Blitz, Ivor was conscripted and posted to Halifax. At Halifax Corps he met and married Irene O’Neill in 1943, but within weeks was called up for the Allied invasion of Sicily. Reunited in 1946, he returned to Plymouth and shortly afterwards Chris was born.

In 1949 the family moved back to Halifax, where Ivor served as YP bandleader and later bandmaster until 1972. He transferred briefly to Leeds Central, but returned to Halifax until 2008 when Irene was promoted to Glory after 65 years of being happily married.

Ivor moved to Cornwall to be near Chris and his family, but continued to serve in the band at Camborne and Redruth. He kept his first promise for 90 years, a soldier and bandsman from first to last. – CB

Salvationist 22 February 2020

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Salvationist 22 February 2020

22-23

‘ 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…

MAJOR EDDIE BLAND

It is satisfying to know we are able to help folk who are potentially socially isolated

’

What one thing would you change about the Army?

Give appropriate training to enable officers who want to manage older people’s care homes.

Retired officer, North Walsham How did you first come into contact with the Army?

As a junior member of the Independent Methodist Church in Spennymoor I used to join the Army for Saturday night open-air witness in the high street. Thirty years later, my wife and I took our children to the Army Sunday school at Middlesbrough West Central (now Acklam).

What made you want to become an officer?

In 1991 my wife and I attended a vocational weekend in London about auxiliary-captaincy. In the final meeting of the weekend the Holy Spirit took over.

When I returned to Middlesbrough I became a soldier, a step I had resisted for some time. After lots of deliberation we applied to become auxiliary-captains.

What do you do in retirement?

I volunteer as the treasurer for the North Walsham dementia support group. We run the Cameo café in partnership with Older People’s Services for people living with dementia and their carers. It is satisfying to know we are able to help folk who are potentially socially isolated. I also potter about in the garden, play partner whist and support Norwich City FC – and I am ‘the taxi’, as my wife doesn’t drive.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

An all-inclusive beach hotel holiday in a warm country.

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

Hatred.

Did you have a nickname growing up?

In the playground I was called Planner Bland. I don’t know if I was a schemer, but is it possible that five and six-yearold kids could foresee the gift of administration in me?

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

Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates Of The Caribbean.

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

A locksmith – I don’t like being restricted!

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

Basketball.

Which book (apart from the Bible) would you want on a desert island?

The Oxford English Dictionary.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?

Patience.

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

‘You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby’

by Bing Crosby.

What is your favourite food?

Cheese.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

Rubber Soul by the Beatles.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

The passage that Billy Graham preached on when I was saved as a youngster: ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life’ (John 3:16 New King James Version).

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

King David. I’d ask: ‘Did you ever forgive yourself?’

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘Breathe On Me, Breath Of God’ (SASB 294).

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

When I was training to be a state registered nurse in the 1960s, I was always short of money. I borrowed a fiver a couple of times from a charge nurse. On the third occasion he refused and gave me some blunt, down-to-earth advice: ‘Live within your means!’

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My wedding ring. Earlier this year I thought I had lost it and was distraught.

Something interesting people might not know about you is…

As a teenager I played basketball for a team named the Spennymoor Synners. We were aptly named!