Salvationist 23 jun 2012

SALVATIONIST ESSENTIAL READING FOR EVERYONE LINKED TO THE SALVATION ARMY www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 23 June 2012 No 1352 Price 60p

INSIDE THIS WEEK

Army assists people displaced by fighting Democratic Republic of Congo PAGE 4

Royal round-up Jubilee news PAGES 8–11

PLUS LOTS MORE!

PAGES 12 & 13

PAPERS War Cry y THE

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SONIC’S AGE IS A PRICKLY SUBJECT Back page

No 7070

FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS

23 June 2012

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IN A G T E N WIMBLEDON IS STILL A SMASH HIT writes CLAIRE BRINE

SERVE up the strawberries and lob on the cream – Wimbledon fortnight is about to begin. From Monday (25 June), tennis stars will be hitting the courts at SW19, each of them set on scooping a slice of the £16 million prize-money.

While the players are getting stuck into the AELTC

Turn to page 3

A tennis fan prepares to tuck into strawberries and cream

Q NO 1 JAZZ SAXOPHONIST YOLANDA BROWN SAYS FAITH IS INSTRUMENTAL

Q LOOKING FORWARD TO WIMBLEDON FORTNIGHT

Q PEOPLE NEED A SAY ON MARRIAGE – COMMENT

Q CELEBRATION TIME WITH NEHEMIAH IN KA! JAM

Q PROVERBS BIBLE SERIES CONTINUES

Q ‘DORK DIARIES’ BOOKS TO WIN

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS PAIR GIVE PRAISE TO TREE LORD

Two recycling workers wondered if they had divine intervention to thank after escaping when a tree crushed their van. Driver Chris Lloyd, 46, had jokingly told colleague Billy Harwood, 17, ‘God loves you’ to cheer him up.

It seemed he was right when, seconds later, the 70ft tree was felled by 60mph winds…

The pair had to crawl out through the windows but were unhurt.

Metro

CLERGY ‘ABUSED’ OVER WIND TURBINE PLAN

PLAYING GOD

A young boy went up to the actor playing Jesus and said: ‘Isn’t it good that God has let you come down here!’

Peter Hutley, in The Catholic Herald, talking about the staging of the play The Life Of Christ

iBAD

A bishop has rebuked ‘abusive and bullying’ wind turbine protesters whom he claims have forced a diocese to drop its energy plans in order to protect clergy.

The Bishop of Exeter, the Right Rev Michael Langrish, claimed staff had suffered verbal abuse over plans to build two 80ft high (25m) turbines…

The diocese had hoped to test the turbines in Church of England plans to reduce its carbon footprint.

It is acceptable to play games on an iPad but not to use it to celebrate Mass, priests in New Zealand have been told.

A number have been using the Roman Missal designed for tablet computers and iPhones instead of the physical book when saying Mass. Now, a letter to clergy from the New Zealand bishops’ conference has put an end to the practice.

The Daily Telegraph

From Notebook in The Tablet

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS Tel: 0845 634 0101 SALVATIONIST 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN Tel: 020 7367 4890 Fax: 020 7367 4691 Email: salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Web: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by benhamgoodheadprint Limited, Bicester, Oxon. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

EDITOR Major Stephen Poxon Tel: 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson Tel: 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley Tel: 020 7367 4892 ASSISTANT EDITOR Claire Anderson Tel: 020 7367 4894 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker Tel: 020 7367 4893 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter Tel: 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza Tel: 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael Tel: 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino Tel: 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING Tel: 020 7367 4883 Email: advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH Tel: 01933 445451 Fax: 01933 445415 Email: keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

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23 June 2012 SALVATIONIST

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COMMENT was present not only to protect the community, but to serve it too, a fact recognised by the woman next door when she asked me to cycle to the chemist to collect her prescription.

Unfortunately – with crime figures and visor issues weighing heavily on my mind – I got mixed up and asked the pharmacist for her description instead.

He was kind enough simply to hand me the drugs and refrain from telling me she was approximately 5ft 7in tall with auburn hair.

Fast forward four decades and imagine me, if you will, pedalling around my present haunt of St Albans on the same bike, wearing the same costume.

It’s a ridiculous thought! I am now the best part of 6ft 3in tall and more suited to the role of ‘The Laughing Policeman’ of Charles Jolly’s music hall song than the pursuit of burglars. The very notion is absurd.

And yet…

How often – and I take first prize for this – do we persevere with ways of outreach that are outdated and – forgive me – somewhat irrelevant?

By and large, I subscribe to the ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ theory, but even I know the value of the secondary theory which states that ‘it might not be broke, but is it still relevant?’ In other words, does what we do – and how we do it – still connect with Joe and Josephine Public?

For example, I own a couple of old typewriters – one of which, incidentally, was manufactured in a German factory that was commandeered for machine production in the Second World War. They ain’t broke and they don’t need fixing, but I would soon be regarded as hopelessly outmoded if I brought one to THQ and expected my colleagues here to accept my antiquated, pre-war ways.

To that end, I commend to you the feature on this week’s centre pages. Let me know what you think.

Ten-four. Over and out.

The secret policeman

O ‘What a beautiful bird!’ said the eagle to its neighbour, ‘what is it?’

‘That’s an eagle…’ the chicken clucked. ‘But… you could never be like him.’

So the eagle never gave it another thought and died thinking it was a chicken.

It’s time to see above and beyond and move our Army forward.

(Commissioner Ivan Lang taken from The Officer magazine)

NEWS Pages 4 – 11 & 21

DemocraticRepublicofCongoStapleHill EstonSleafordRhylBromleyHuddersfield AbingdonWhatfieldPeterboroughCitadel SouthamptonShirleyTunstall BlackpoolCitadelWokinghamUKT LockerbieOtleyCirencesterWintonHadleigh CroydonBelfastCitadelDennistounL’Islet StocktonHordenStanford-le-Hope HastingsCitadelLeightonBuzzardWorcester SomercotesAndoverNorthShields HeckmondwikePetersfieldGorseinonBurnley SherburnHillScunthorpeWillingham BirminghamErdington PlymouthCongressHallStIves StockportHeatonNorrisPenarthHaroldHill MiddlesbroughCitadelAshington GreatYarmouthFelixstoweClydebank

N Christmas Day 1972, I took to the streets on my bike, wearing the policeman’s outfit I had received as my Christmas present. Though I say it myself, I really did look the part – Dixon Of Dock Green, Z Cars and Heartbeat, all rolled into one: white vinyl gauntlets, dark-blue cotton jacket and trousers and – best of all – a plastic helmet complete with black and white chequered band and a green visor that could be pulled down or left up, depending on how the crime-fighting was going.

Patrolling the streets of King’s Lynn, a real-life constable walked past and – recognising me as one of his own – saluted me. I doubt there was a happier boy in the whole of England that morning.

It should also go on record that I

MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR

FEATURE

HEARTS ON FIRE

NEW COMMITMENTS

Safeguarding a delightful inheritance

Called for a purpose

Pages 18 & 19

Pages 12 & 13

Page 15

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FIT4LIFE

FEATURE

Leave no one ‘out there’

Army people, engagements and tributes

Governing for the Governor

Page 16

Pages 20 & 21

Page 13

BIBLE STUDY

ADVERTS

The mind of Christ

Pages 22 & 23

LETTERS Page 14

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Page 17

SALVATIONIST 23 June 2012

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NEWS Army assists people displaced by fighting Democratic Republic of Congo THE Salvation Army in central Africa is responding to a growing humanitarian crisis. Hundreds of thousands of people have fled their homes because of fighting between government troops and rebels in the DRC. Some of the displaced people are living in temporary camps within the country but many have fled across the eastern border, seeking safety in Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi.

In Rwanda, project officer Major Robert Tuftström reported a large increase in Congolese refugees moving over the border.

During an assessment visit to the Nkamira Transit Camp in Rubavu District it became apparent that living conditions were very poor.

Clean water and food are in short supply and many people have travelled without even the most basic of possessions – including clothing. The camp was set up to house 2,500 people but it is now home to almost 8,500, with more arriving every day.

IHQ sent an initial payment of $20,000 to Rwanda. Following the assessment, and working alongside other non-governmental organisations, the funds will be used to provide clothing and food, with a particular focus on mothers who are breastfeeding.

A further $20,000 has been sent to the territory to fund the emergency supply of food to 10,000 internally displaced persons.

The Army in Uganda is conducting an assessment in order to decide how best to offer support to Congolese refugees.

In all three countries, The Salvation Army will look to provide as much ongoing support as funds allow. All signs point to the likelihood that the situation will worsen over the coming weeks. – A. R. Staple Hill: The band provided music for the annual songs of praise event – attended by members of 14 churches – at the Methodist church. Songster Hilary Dickens represented the corps with the song ‘Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind’ and briefly spoke on her choice of song. – V. W.

Sleaford corps members visit the William Booth Birthplace Museum, Nottingham; Sleaford Band earlier led a service of praise and thanksgiving when members of the International Caravanning Fellowship of Rotarians met for their annual general meeting at Nottinghamshire Showground

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Bike ride raises funds Eston THE men’s fellowship group took on the epic challenge of riding the C2C cycle route, a demanding 140-mile route between Whitehaven and Sunderland, and raised more than £1,500. The funds will

support the growing children’s programme at the corps and its ongoing work within the community.

They were joined by riders and support team members who had no contact with The Salvation Army before, yet felt they wanted to support the Army.

The men also raised funds for various other charities. – G. C.

Home League Secretary Ruth Thomas, pictured with Rhyl corps officer Lieutenant Sian Radford (left), retires after 22 years’ faithful service; Divisional Family Officer Major Shirley McKenzie (right) presented Ruth with a retirement certificate and expressed appreciation for her commitment to the Home League

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NEWS Bands unite in open-air witness Bromley STOCKHOLM South Citadel Band visited the corps for the final weekend of its England tour.

In the afternoon the band led an open-air programme in the High Street before presenting an evening concert in Bromley parish church attended by civic leaders. Hundreds of people listened to the band’s varied repertoire, which included ‘Ad Optimum’ and ‘Romans 8’, euphonium and cornet soloists and Cadet Daniel Viklund, who sang and played the piano.

The band, accompanied by its corps officer, Commissioner Hasse Kjellgren, led the Sunday morning meeting. The tour concluded with open-air witness (pictured) when the host corps band, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary, joined with the visitors. – B. F.

Time to shine Huddersfield AS the Olympic flame entered the UK, the corps spent time praying for the route and the opportunities and celebrations that would occur throughout the nation as a result.

During a special prayer time corps members were asked to consider all the places the flame will visit, including Huddersfield, and pray that the light of Christ will shine brightly.

Prayer will be a focus for the corps throughout the Olympics, and prayer resources are displayed in the foyer with an extended invitation to all who use the building to utilise the resources to engage with the community and consider the opportunities that will arise.

– L. T.

God-glorifying weekend Abingdon THE 125th corps anniversary celebrations – with rousing singing, memories and messages – commenced with a Saturday evening festival of praise by Reading Central Band.

Guests Commissioners Judith and Ray Houghton brought God’s word, challenging and encouraging the capacity congregation, a number of whom had returned to share in the celebration.

The commissioners continued to lead worship on Sunday in the presence of the new

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Mayor of Abingdon-onThames (Councillor Monica Lovatt), who brought her own message to the corps.

The meeting included testimonies from corps folk and contributions from the visiting band and the corps music sections.

The open-air meeting outside the supermarket, where corps members met and made contact with shoppers, was a highlight.

This was followed by a march of witness through the town centre, something that has not taken place for a number of years.

An afternoon praise meeting and celebration tea concluded a happy and God-glorifying weekend. – A. M.

YP band supports corps anniversary Whatfield SOLDIERS and friends of yesteryear responded to invitations to share in 126th corps anniversary celebrations, which began with the Sunday holiness meeting led

by Majors David and Muriel Diaper.

People filled the village hall for a celebration service led by Divisional Commander Major David Jackson. The programme featured Stowmarket Young People’s Band and was compèred

by Bandsman Gerald Turner (Stowmarket).

Corps officer Major Mary Hartley, who has led the corps for 17 years in retirement, is pictured with Major Jackson cutting the celebration cake. – M. H.

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NEWS Corps projects transform lives Peterborough Citadel THE corps held a community open weekend to showcase its community work. The corps serves a wide variety of vulnerable and marginalised communities through diverse projects, including a homeless drop-in, a debt advice service and the Good Neighbours scheme.

The theme of the weekend was Living A Life Of Action, Purpose And Faith. In total, 27 activities were showcased at the event, launched by Councillor Bella Saltmarsh (chairperson of the Community Work Advisory Board). Divisional Commander Major David Jackson welcomed everyone to a Friday lunchtime event, attended by DHQ staff, commissioners from statutory agencies, Peterborough City Council officials, local housing agencies and NHS staff.

Events over the weekend included a coffee morning.

During Sunday worship a number of people who were helped by the projects (see picture) told stories of how their lives have been transformed. – A. M. Southampton Sholing’s new Cameo choir presents its inaugural performance to Southampton Shirley Cameo members; the two groups have established a good rapport and hope to enhance this with future engagements

Tunstall Band joins with Methodists for Pentecostal Praise at Mow Cop – the birthplace of Primitive Methodism

Fundraising sends young people to camp

The Mayor of Blackpool (Councillor Sylvia Taylor) meets Majors Jean and Ian Harris at a Civic Sunday service hosted by Blackpool Citadel where she is an adherent member

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Wokingham PROCLAMATION Youth Brass – comprising members of various corps – conducted the Sunday morning meeting followed by an open-air meeting at the town hall.

During a testimony time the band members thanked God for Salvation Army music camps, where many members had met, and for the Christian influence the camps have had on their lives.

Together the band and the corps raised enough money to send two young people from Slough to the 2012 divisional youth camp. – N. M.

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NEWS Congress generates unprecedented web traffic UKT THE Salvation Army territorial website experienced an unprecedented number of visitors during the weekend of the ‘I’ll Fight’ Congress as thousands of people attempted to watch the event online.

The website traffic increased by more than 400 per cent on Sunday as the Congress page experienced more than 10,179 page views, with people from all around the world accessing the site.

People from 66 countries, including the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Brazil, viewed the Congress online. – A. R.

Music night Lockerbie THE music sections provided items for a music night. The band played ‘Alleluia’ and ‘Shenandoah’ and the songsters sang ‘He Came To Give Us Life’ and ‘Sometime Soon’ and closed the evening with the benediction ‘Spirit Of The Living God’. The timbrelists provided two displays.

Other items included a piano duet, a guitar piece, the male voices and the Bible-based sketch Fred And His Bed by corps officer Major Jim Prescott. – K. R.

Torchbearer given a time to shine Winton DAVE RAMSAY carried the Olympic Torch after his daughter, Victoria, nominated him as a torchbearer. She felt he deserved a time to shine because of all his hard work in changing the lives

Otley: Major Linda Watson (Shildon) led the adult and family ministries weekend accompanied by Shildon Band, which presented a Saturday evening festival, uplifting an appreciative audience. During Sunday worship and the Monday rally – which was well supported by nearby churches and other corps – the major looked at the blessings experienced by Noah’s family because of his obedience.

– W. K.

Band joins Olympic relay

Cirencester: The corps hosted an interdenominational launch for Christian Aid Week with all local churches taking part.

Paul Langley from Christian Aid spoke during the event and the band, songsters and worship group provided music. – M. G.

Croydon DURING the Saturday night festival of band weekend, the band became part of the brass band world’s contribution to this year’s Olympic celebrations when it played ‘Going The Distance’ from Paul

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of children and adults in Ukraine.

He was allocated a 300-yard section in Nailsea near Bristol.

Since 1994 Dave has organised a biennial mission trip to the country. This year the mission team hopes to run three children’s clubs and renovate an old people’s home. Dave is very passionate about the project and devotes his life to helping others. – G. T.

Morrisons supermarket in Hadleigh erected a sculpture with a tribute to The Salvation Army; the plinth contains four bricks from the farm colony and the bronze section portrays a bandsman and colony workers

Lovatt-Cooper’s ‘Brass The Baton’. Other sections of the same piece had been played by various brass bands in relay fashion.

Highlights of the almost sellout festival included contributions by special guest soloist Philip Cobb (Hendon) – co-principal trumpet of the London Symphony Orchestra – who is pictured as he plays accompa-

nied by the band. Philip’s solos included ‘Jubilance’, ‘Flourish’ and ‘Don’t Doubt Him Now’.

He also played the trio ‘The Veterans’ with Bandsman Carl Nielsen and Carl’s 11-year-old son, Thomas.

The band’s contributions included ‘Olympic Fanfare And Theme’, ‘The Proclaimers’ and ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’.

– C. K.

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JUBILEE NEWS Jubilee café church attracts new people Belfast Citadel THE Queen’s Diamond Jubilee proved to be the ideal opportunity for the first café church at the corps as a Street Party theme attracted eight new people.

The theme continued in the meeting, with the band contributing ‘Hornpipe’ from Handel’s ‘Water Music’ to accompany slides of past Thames pageants.

After the songsters’ ‘Song Of Consecration’ many people responded to the challenge to echo the declaration of service Princess Elizabeth made to the Commonwealth in her 21st-birthday speech. The meeting concluded with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ arrangement of ‘Old 100th’, which was played at the Queen’s coronation. – N. M.

Toddlers receive a royal visitor

Jubilee thanksgiving

Dennistoun THERE was great excitement when the Queen – alias Major Helen Adams – visited the parent-and-toddler group.

The group celebrates many different cultures and the major felt that it was important to mark this special occasion.

Each child received a bookmark to remind them where they spent the Diamond Jubilee and the party concluded with the chorus ‘When You See A Rainbow’. – C. W.

L’Islet THE united bands of L’Islet and St Peter Port took a prominent part in an ecumenical service of thanksgiving for the Diamond Jubilee at the town church in St Peter Port, in the presence of the Lieutenant Governor (Air Marshal Peter Walker) and Bailiff (Richard Collas). Corps officers Majors Claire and Jamie Hill (L’Islet) led prayers.

– J. H.

Neighbours join Jubilee celebrations Stockton MORE than 100 people celebrated the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, with entertainment that included face-painting, a magic show, a brass ensemble and TV coverage of the events in London.

The car park overflowed with people from near and far, including neighbours of other faiths who joined in the celebrations and supplied a wide selection of their national foods. – B. C.

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Southampton Shirley corps folk serve ‘postwar’ food at a Diamond Jubilee coffee morning, attended by more than 60 people, many of whom were not Salvationists

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JUBILEE NEWS

Praise the Lord and the Queen Horden THE Diamond Jubilee night – featuring the Kool Kids + Band and Choir – was a great success, with people praising the Lord and the Queen.

Samantha Leonard was awarded first prize in a crown and tiara competition with her Olympic flame-inspired creation. She won a balloon queen, created by Kevin Campbell (see picture).

A time of fellowship followed the meeting. – M. S.

Worcester: Parent-andtoddler group members made crowns for their Jubilee party.

Within just a few weeks, attendance at the new group has reached more than 30 children.

– C. D.

Jubilee concert raises funds for charity Somercotes THE Pye Hill and District Male Voice Choir presented a concert to a capacity congregation to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee.

The choir sang a number of popular songs including ‘You Raise Me Up’, ‘Love Changes Everything’ and ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.

Territorial Envoy Terence Carpenter presented a cheque for £347 to representatives from the Chernobyl Children’s Life Line charity, which supports children and young people affected by the Chernobyl disaster. – M. H.

Many new people attended the Army for a Jubilee Big Lunch – provided by staff from Hadleigh Training Centre – at Stanford-le-Hope; it was followed by a Jubilee songs of praise supported by Romford Band

Hastings Citadel: Corps officer Captain Stephen Baker offered a prayer of thanksgiving when he joined other faith leaders and Amber Rudd MP at Elphinstone Community School Jubilee Fayre. – B. N. Leighton Buzzard: Corps members met for a Jubilee prayer breakfast during the week when the corps held the divisional prayer flame. – J. B.

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At Andover, the Pebbles toddler group holds a Kings and Queens party; other Jubilee celebrations included a Cameo party and a Big Lunch on Sunday

Staff and guests at North Shields Cameo club celebrate the Diamond Jubilee

Party fit for a Queen Heckmondwike PRESCHOOL children, parents and staff gathered for a special Jubilee tea party. The hall – decked out with Union Jacks, balloons and bunting – resounded to the sound of ‘Land Of Hope And Glory’ as everyone sat down to enjoy the royal feast. An impromptu visit by ‘the Queen’ (Preschool Leader Tricia Major) delighted the children.

The party concluded with the National Anthem. – V. G.

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JUBILEE NEWS

Petersfield Junior Club members display certificates and medals they received as participants in Jubilee races Members of Scunthorpe Home League celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with an old-fashioned afternoon tea

Fifty people at Gorseinon celebrate the Jubilee and raise more than £100 for the Annual Appeal. The corps produced a souvenir brochure featuring corps news from 1952 and information about the Queen and country at that time

Willingham lunch club celebrates the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a themed lunch with activities including ‘pin the tail on the corgi’

A Jubilee strawberry tea at Burnley attracted many people from the community, some paying their first visit to the Army; everyone who attended received a New Testament Birmingham Erdington members join with corps officer Major Valerie Harrod to celebrate the Jubilee; the day included an after-meeting meal

The rainbows and brownies at Sherburn Hill enjoy a Diamond Jubilee celebration party with games and quizzes; each member received a commemorative mug

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Home league fellowship members at Plymouth Congress Hall line up for the judges with the crowns they created without the use of paper or card; YPSM Andrew Renouf shared with the fellowship his memories of being a footman at Buckingham Palace

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JUBILEE NEWS

Worship leader Mark Gadsden performs a magic show at an outreach Jubilee celebration at Harold Hill attended by more than 100 people

Children and parents from St Ives toddler group enjoy a Jubilee party with a bouncy castle, games and a visit from ‘the Queen’ Eston rainbows tuck into a picnic and wear red, white and blue at a garden party to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee

Stockport Heaton Norris charity shop volunteers throw a Jubilee-style party

Middlesbrough Citadel toddlers celebrate the Jubilee

Penarth toddlers enjoy a Jubilee party during a week of celebration, which included a screening of the Coronation for over-55 club members

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Ashington corps folk enjoy a Jubilee meal, which was followed by a praise meeting

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FEATURE

Safeguarding a delightful inheritance As corps and churches face up to the challenge of numerical decline and the need to explore new ideas in modern outreach, Salvationist publishes an article by Dave Tomlinson that first appeared in Third Way magazine under the heading ‘Change or Die’

I

T IS no secret that churches are now in trouble across the Western world, haemorrhaging members at an alarming rate, however, the big surprise to many people is the widely documented rising tide of different forms of spirituality there.

It seems that people are no less spiritual in their outlook, but simply looking elsewhere for sustenance.

This is no time for defensiveness or licking of wounds. Instead of pulling up the drawbridge, we must recognise the exciting times we are living in and respond to the new challenges and opportunities with imagination and hope. I would like to suggest three broad tasks facing churches that wish to change rather than die.

RETHINK AND REINTERPRET THE CHRISTIAN FAITH FOR THE 21ST CENTURY The image of an essentially masculine, transcendent deity ‘out there’ somewhere else, ‘up in Heaven’ ordering the affairs of the world, is deeply problematic when, for example, we require an ecologically sensitive theology that affirms an understanding of divinity as profoundly present within creation. The same approach can be extended to argue that God is equally manifest in both masculine and feminine; and that God is present within churches and beyond churches, within the Christian gospel but never

‘I do have a sense that God will bring revival to the Army. I’ve had it for a long time and it’s been my prayer. I do have a feeling that when that happens we will have a great soul thirst for God… He wants to tell the world he’s still in the transforming business and he’s still the God of grace’ (General Linda Bond)

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exhausted by it; that invited or uninvited, recognised or unrecognised, felt or unfelt, God is present everywhere.

In order to find God afresh it is vital to deconstruct the images of God, which become idolatrous when they have become absolutes or are taken literally. We need constantly to rethink and reinterpret our God-talk for today’s world.

RECONNECT WITH THE SPIRITUAL HEART OF CHRISTIANITY In the eyes of many people, the Church is no more than an empty, archaic structure. If it is to survive, we need to reconnect more effectively with the hidden heart of Christianity, to rediscover the mystery that forms its light and wisdom. In what ways can the reality of Christ and his Kingdom impact the burdened psyche of post-modern urbanites? How can the liberating love of Christ inspire us to ensure a future for our grandchildren and great-grandchildren in a world that ‘bears man’s smudge and shares man’s smell’, as Gerard Manley Hopkins put it.

The present challenge is to shift from extrinsic faith to intrinsic faith, based on an existential grappling with the reality of God, who seeks continual and dynamic incarnation in creation, society and human consciousness. We cannot save our churches through budgeting, publicity, seeker services, more evangelism,

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technology or good-old-Bible preaching.

The future hinges on a constant reinterpretation of, and re-engagement with, the spiritual heart of our tradition in the light of new cultural insights and sensibilities.

CREATE OPEN, EMPOWERING CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES In a fractured world where many starve for relationships, the capacity to offer a place to belong is an immense asset.

David Tacey makes the observation that it is the innate human need for community that will build religion again.

But it needs to be the kind of community that is inclusive and affirming, liberating and empowering – church without border controls – where people can belong and contribute to the life of the community without necessarily feeling able to tick doctrinal boxes. Once we treat conversion as a process, and allow identity to be governed by participation rather than doctrine, some very liberating and attractive forms of church can begin to emerge.

Jesus created community wherever he went. His energetic presence captivated people and they came for healing, for wisdom, for hope and liberation, for a vision of what might be, for the challenge to be different, for a fearless response to oppressive authorities, for the mysterious presence of God, for the warmth and empowering energy of kindred spirits. They came.

And his was no puritanical community; Jesus ate and drank with tax collectors, prostitutes, publicans and others on the fringes of society.

Christian mission over the next decade will require Kingdom-orientated communities, places of radical inclusion and empowerment. These should say: You are welcome – whatever your ethnic or cultural background, however you look or dress, whether you are a man or a woman, gay or straight, whether you earn a pittance or you’re worth a fortune, whether you have kids, can’t have kids, don’t want kids, whether you are full of faith or riddled with doubts, whether you feel hopeful or fearful, gregarious or withdrawn – YOU ARE WELCOME! Will churches change or die? The choice is ours. Q Q Reprinted from Third Way with permission

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GOVERNING FOR THE GOVERNOR Responding to the need for Salvationists to embrace community involvement on a personal level, Kevin Pallister tells Salvationist about ministry opportunities as a school governor

A

S a lifelong Salvationist, serving as a local officer and a musician, my search for new avenues of discipleship began when I reached my late thirties. I am in business in a rural market town with no Salvation Army corps, although there are a number of expressions of Army work within reasonable distance.

In 2003 I was invited to become a governor at a local independent school, with responsibility for monitoring religious education. I sensed God calling me to do something practical within the school so I tentatively suggested I might provide some music and a short thought in assembly as a representative of The Salvation Army. God honoured my step of faith and my involvement grew to include the regular provision of assemblies and the privilege of providing ‘music and a message’ at the carol service.

When the chair of governors introduces me to someone, I am declared to be ‘a contributor to the moral health of the school’! This is a challenge and a responsibility.

In 2010 I wrote to a number of primary schools, offering this ministry.

Consequently, I now provide assemblies at several more schools and I have been asked to be a governor at a state school.

My assembly modus operandi is as follows: Q I wear uniform Q I use and adapt music children will recognise – Disney tunes go down well Q I provide visual aids Q I share a brief and simple Bible-based thought Q I describe the role of the Army as my church and a charity Q I stress the joyful experience of being a Christian – humour is allowed!

I have tried to develop a ‘salt and light’ ministry in other areas such as commerce and civic life; however, I feel that God has affirmed my role as a lay Salvationist in education.

I would encourage Salvationists to build contacts with schools – indeed, communities at large – and to use their gifts in practical ways.

As a denomination, we have much to offer. Experience indicates that the Army is held in high esteem. Excellent, modern, up-to-date materials are readily available from the Schools and Colleges Unit at THQ. Before venturing out, though, be sure to consult with your corps officer and DHQ! I do not know what the outcome of this work might be. I simply regard it as a part of my service to the Lord. It is no exaggeration to state that the future of some corps will increasingly depend upon corps and individuals impacting communities. Q Q Kevin is young people’s band leader, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls

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LETTERS

Q Where there’s a need?

AFTER reading Stuart Gay’s letter (Salvationist 26 May) regarding red shield catering, I feel I should respond. Along with my wife, I have worked with the Red Shield Defence Services for the past 23 years in 7 different centres in the UK and overseas.

Stuart rightly points out that many thousands of service personnel, and their families, have found a welcome at a red shield canteen over the years but, in my experience, our service is more than a subsidised food outlet – there are bigger issues to address than the loss of the bacon butty!

I serve at an army training regiment where the red shield centre is visited daily by often hundreds of unchurched young men for the special service we provide.

Q Red shield services fondly remembered MY fellow musicians and I of the band of Hannover Corps are still thankful for the help our band received from the red shield services, especially through the then Adjutant Frank Ellingham and the British bandsmen who played in the band.

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Barely a day goes by without a request for prayer for one of the young soldiers under training.

Each Sunday we meet with up to a hundred of these young people for worship at the garrison church, at which we are very much involved. Only last week we witnessed eight young soldiers making a commitment to God, each one testifying how their life had been changed while in training, and most of them commenting on the welfare provision we offer. We give thanks to God that we have been able to play our part.

At a time when other churches are looking for fresh expressions of church, The Salvation Army is in danger of losing a model that works through a ministry of listening, serving and incarnational mission to the Forces community.

I know that requests are still being made to THQ for new red shield openings. There is still a need.

Anthony Foster, Bassingbourn

Brigadier Ellingham and my grandfather, Karl Kumm, became very good friends. Older bandsmen in our band told me that our band was led by either Brigadier Ellingham or my grandfather.

The accompanying picture shows Hannover Band in Wolfenbüttel in September 1956. But, very sadly, there is no recollection of the names of the British bandsmen. I was a very small boy and didn’t belong to The Salvation Army at that time.

Gernod Kumm, Hannover

Q Our duty to save children AFTER the excellent Congress, and charged with reinforcing the message of William Booth to fight against the evils of our world, I came across another message which I understand was written by the Founder on his 80th birthday.

He said: ‘My hourly usage with regard to every effort I put forth has been to ask myself, What does this action contemplate? What will it achieve? Can it be improved upon?

‘There are many other things you will have to do, but I must remind you of the unchanging necessity of looking after the young. So great are the advantages flowing out of the discharge of this duty and so self-evident must be the importance and compliance with it, that I need not take up time by presenting any arguments in its favour. With all the emphasis with which I am capable I plead for the intelligent, compassionate, religious and persistent duty of saving the children and young people.

‘I cannot help feeling that if a band of angels from Heaven was deputed to undertake the mighty task at present resting on our shoulders, they would begin with the young. Passing by the matured and hardened and slaves of sin and vice and crime, they would turn to the children and say “This is the shortest, surest and most economical method of saving the world.” I believe I can say that every conversation and prayer and song and address and meeting I have had a hand in, have been valued in proportion to their ability to promote the realisation of that great purpose.

‘O, my comrades, my comrades, let us do our duty by the young.’

In her book, My Father’s House, Corrie Ten Boom describes how she gave her life to Jesus at the tender age of five while in the kitchen with her mother. In my simplicity I still believe that childhood conversion is ‘the shortest, surest and most economical method of saving the world’ and of defeating the darkness about which General Linda Bond spoke so eloquently.

Stuart Snowball, Grantham

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

HEARTS ON FIRE

Called for a purpose

by Territorial Commander Commissioner André Cox

T

HIS is my first opportunity to engage with the Salvationists and friends in this territory through the printed media.

Face-to-face encounters are preferable and my wife and I look forward to such opportunities as we travel and visit many corps, centres and Lifehouses.

We are grateful to our predecessors, Commissioners John and Betty Matear, and to the many others who have gone before us, for their faithful work and the laying of solid foundations upon which we can continue to build.

The day is fast approaching when The Salvation Army will be celebrating 150 years of existence. A lot has happened since William Booth reflected on the issues of his day. In many ways the world has changed, yet sadly we acknowledge that many of the social issues and the battles we face remain the same. If William Booth were to return today, I fear that he would be all too familiar with the issues of social justice and poverty that we face. Without doubt, he would exhort us all to ‘do something about it’!

I sometimes wonder what Booth would make of the technological

advances we benefit from in this century.

I feel pretty sure he would be constantly looking for ways to make good use of technology as he demonstrated a willingness to use the emerging technologies of his day. I am, however, constantly challenged when I realise the responsibility of using the tools we have at our disposal to grow the Kingdom.

The early-day Salvationists could never have dreamt of the facilities we now

for and assurance about what we do not see’ (11:1 New International Version).

Those who have gone before had an unshakeable faith. They believed they could win the world for Jesus. I pray that in this generation we will be a people of unshakeable faith because it is as we acknowledge and accept the will of God for our lives that we can experience and participate in his victory.

In an age of rampant secularism and materialism Salvationists need to take a stand! As soldiers, we sign up to some important things. In the soldier’s covenant we boldly state: ‘I will make the values of the Kingdom of God and not the values of the world the standard for my life.’ We then declare: ‘I will be faithful to the purposes for which God raised up The Salvation Army, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, endeavouring to win others to him and in his name caring for the needy and the disadvantaged.’

There are many in the Army today who, while they may not have literally signed such a covenant, are committed to the same ideals.

What is the practical outworking in your own life? Do you see that in the reality of your setting?

If we are a fully mobilised force, committed to the promises that we have made, we can and will make a significant impact for positive change. We can help transform society in our lifetimes!

Jesus calls us to be ‘salt and light’ and this implies that our lives have to be different; they have to impact the lives of others in a positive and visible way.

God has called us for a purpose and it is therefore important for us to make our lives count for things of eternal value. The message of the Bible is still real and relevant to society today. The message remains unchanged and speaks directly into the reality of our world.

Jesus came as the light of the world. Is that light reflected in our lives?

Do we need the Holy Spirit to reignite that passion within our hearts?

The mission of the Army remains unchanged since William Booth’s day and I believe with a passion that God is calling us today to continue the battle against forces of evil in this world. I pray we will be a mobilised and effective fighting force for his Kingdom because God has called us for a purpose. Q

‘God has called us for a purpose and it is therefore important for us to make our lives count’

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

enjoy and, dare I say, take for granted, yet they went out and changed the face of their generation.

Why were the early Salvationists so successful in saving souls and growing saints? Without doubt they had an unfailing faith in a wonder-working God. They experienced first-hand that he can indeed do all things.

The writer to the Hebrews states: ‘Now faith is confidence in what we hope

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FIT4LIFE

Leave no one ‘out there’ Martyn Beecham warms to the theme of torchbearing

A

S I write, enthusiasm, interest and expectation are mounting as torchbearers carry the Olympic flame – symbolic of ‘the light of spirit, knowledge and life’, through the highways and byways of the land. We’re told that no one need be any more than an hour away from where the torchbearers pass.

I don’t know if I’m alone, but each time I hear the word ‘torchbearers’ I get an irresistible urge to begin singing the evocative strains of the 1933 sessional song of the same name. (Altogether now: ‘Out there, out there, where the darkness reigns, out there’!)

For others, the phrase may conjure up memories of times spent playing table tennis or snooker at a torchbearer youth club. I have recently read of a group based at Nairobi Central Corps, Kenya East, styling itself Futurist Torchbearers, caring for children in need and vulnerable adults, giving them hope and encouragement by participating in manual work.

It seems that a word nearly lost to the Salvationist lexicon is back in vogue!

After the torchbearers will come the Olympics themselves. We will hardly have put away our Jubilee bunting before we are once again inviting friends around for coffee and snacks as a prelude to

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watching that all-important race, game or competition.

Pubs and clubs will throw open their doors, inviting regulars and potential customers to come inside and, in likeminded company, watch the spectacle on their big screens – no doubt banking on visitors sampling their wares as they do so.

Forward-thinking, mission-centric corps will be adopting the same strategy as an evangelistic opportunity. Halls and homes will be opened for corps and community members to watch together on screens normally reserved for song lyrics and the preacher’s bullet-points!

As Sarah-Jane Alley (More than Gold Co-ordinator, THQ) reminds us: ‘Corps and centres are planning big-screen viewing parties, inviting members of their communities to experience friendship and fun in a safe environment.’

Such activities are not a million miles away from the New Testament model of ‘doing church’ where ‘they followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved’ (Acts 2:46 and 47 The Message).

Although The Salvation Army pioneered the use of small groups through its ‘wards’ and ‘brigades’ structures, such groups were not widespread in the Church until the middle of the last century. In his book How Your Corps Can Grow, General John Larsson (Retired) argues: ‘The discovery of their value seems to have been sparked off by what social scientists were learning about groups. Suddenly church leaders were beginning to speak of small groups in glowing terms.’

In his study I Believe In Church Growth, Eddie Gibbs (a writer and teacher on mission and church growth) sees groups as being strategically important because Q they create intimacy in an urban society that is becoming increasingly impersonal Q they bring together people from a variety of backgrounds Q they create a sense of community and fellowship Q they can respond to changing needs quickly and at low cost.

Castleford Corps is rich in opportunities for evangelism, discipleship, stewardship, worship and fellowship through its small groups.

Music sections, a ramblers group, home league, lunch clubs, parent-and-toddlers, soup kitchen and other similar groups allow their members to enjoy the benefits Larsson and Gibbs refer to. However, after a recent ‘4-8 Prayer-Fest’, there has been a challenge to establish yet more groups – particularly groups encouraging open membership.

In Community In Mission, Commissioner Phil Needham emphasises the importance of small groups within a corps. He writes: ‘The small group can become a vehicle of encouragement because it can serve as a kind of extended family within the congregation: a place of personal belonging where certain needs are met, personal growth is nurtured, members are respected and loved and empathy is felt.’

So, here’s our challenge: let us open our halls and homes and find Olympic opportunities to meet together, using these as forerunner activities to establish small-group fellowships from within our own corps.

We don’t want anyone ‘out there’ to be more than an hour away from a torchbearer! Q Q Martyn is songster leader at Castleford

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

BIBLE STUDY

The mind of Christ Captain Amy Reardon explores mind control

STUDY PASSAGE 1 CORINTHIANS 2

W

OULDN’T it be wonderful to have access to Albert Einstein’s brain? Imagine if his thoughts became your thoughts! It is 57 years since Einstein died and science and technology have come a long way since then. With today’s pool of knowledge and Einstein’s mental dexterity, what could you accomplish if his brain were at your disposal?

The scientific mind might not be your first choice. Perhaps you could make good use of the genius of filmmaker Steven Spielberg or musician Kate Bush. Imagine the journey through the creative process with that kind of barrier-free imagination! If you could link into those minds, what contribution would you make?

As much as we might love to examine the thoughts of these brilliant people, we have access to something far greater.

1 Corinthians 2:16 tells believers that ‘we have the mind of Christ’ (all quotations from New International Version).

This is a remarkable statement! How can a mere human know the thoughts of God? In verse 6, Paul begins building up to the dramatic declaration of verse 16. The first thing he wants his readers to understand is

that God’s wisdom and human wisdom are nothing alike. The world will call the wisdom of God ‘foolishness’ (1 Corinthians 1:21).

Paul affirms that human wisdom – the wisdom of this age – is fleeting. Only what is true is eternal, and the wisdom of the age is not truth.

The mystery of salvation continues to unfold. There is a final piece to it. We are already saved from our lonely, wretched state as human beings and can enjoy fellowship with the Holy Spirit even as we walk this earth. We are already welcome to approach God boldly in prayer and worship.

We already possess the hope of Heaven. But salvation will be complete when we share in the glory of God with, and through, Christ (Romans 8:17 and 18). That day is yet before us.

WHAT DOES SALVATION BRING TO US, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE? HOW CAN THIS IMPACT THE WAY WE LIVE? The Holy Spirit of God knows the thoughts of God. This same Spirit is the companion and guide of every believer. Perhaps we have become too accustomed to the truth that the Spirit who dwells within is ‘not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God’ (1 Corinthians 2:12).

It is a spectacular thing to have been given God’s own Spirit. On our own we are flawed and feeble. But we possess the Spirit of God. Ponder the kind of power that comes with that.

The Spirit of God has been given to us so we might understand the wisdom and mystery of God that is ours to claim. Without the Spirit, we would be as the ‘rulers of this age’ (v8), who could not understand. The Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts and minds and teaches us. Most of us cannot access the Queen, yet we have daily access to the God of the Universe, who is our ‘private tutor’. Hallelujah!

This leads us to the glorious conclusion of this chapter: ‘We have the mind of Christ.’ Through the Holy Spirit, believers can actually think as God thinks. We can make appropriate ‘judgments about all things’ (v15) because we can discern what God would have us do. That is not to say we are never wrong!

Sometimes we allow our own voices to crowd out God’s voice. But with the Holy Spirit living with us, we can know the mind of Christ.

Are we mindful of the thoughts of God? Do we allow his wisdom to control our lives? Q

‘Salvation will be complete when we share in the glory of God with, and through, Christ’

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

WHAT IS THE WISDOM OF OUR AGE? WHAT THINGS ARE WE TAUGHT BY SOCIETY THAT ARE NOT GODLY, LASTING TRUTHS? The wisdom of God is the ‘mystery’ of God. That mystery is nothing less than God’s plan to provide salvation through Christ Jesus and includes the crucial fact that ‘we may approach God with freedom and confidence’ (Ephesians 3:12). While vague in the days of the Old Testament, the mystery became much clearer with the coming of Christ. The unbelievers did not understand. They could not comprehend God’s wisdom.

For reflection Consider the questions in the first two paragraphs in relation to knowing the mind of Christ.

Q Captain Reardon is Editor, Young Salvationist, USA National

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NEW COMMITMENTS

Amanda Say Soldier

Valerie Humphries Soldier

CWMBRAN AMANDA was enrolled as a soldier at Cwmbran many years ago but after a while she moved away and found it difficult to attend the Army.

On moving back to Cwmbran, Amanda started attending the meetings again and decided to become a soldier once more. She was enrolled by corps officer Major Lynne Collins. When Major Collins asked for people to support Amanda, a number of soldiers stood around her and pledged to support her in prayer. Amanda now attends songster practice. – D. L.

Karen Everest Soldier HORSHAM KAREN returned to the Army a year ago and enthusiastically runs the children’s and family ministries. She testified that, despite knockbacks, she knew she had to be a soldier in The Salvation Army after many years away. She is now preparing to marry.

She stood before the congregation and signed her covenant, indicating that she wants to be a radical disciple and stand up for Jesus.

Several people made commitments in response. Karen was enrolled by corps officer Captain Ian Woodgate and, as is tradition, the corps folk came forward to greet and celebrate with her. – I. M.

Maggie Lay Michael Humphries Adherent members SITTINGBOURNE VAL went to the Army after an invitation from her nephew. She became an adherent member some time ago and earlier this year felt God calling her to become a soldier. Val’s link brought her husband to the corps via her involvement with the over-50 club and Mick faithfully attends all worship services. After a recent Alpha course, Mick decided that Jesus was for him. This resulted in his commitment to become an adherent member.

Maggie became involved with the Army when invited to the home league by a neighbour. Ever since this encounter Maggie has attended the Sunday meetings, bringing her grandchildren with her. After attending an Alpha course and knowing Jesus as her true friend she decided to become an adherent member and now supports the luncheon club and parent-and-toddler group.

Corps officer Major Robert Jepson welcomed Mick and Maggie as adherent members and enrolled Val as a soldier in ceremonies supported by corps members, friends and family. – R. J.

David Roberts Soldier

Daphne Holmes Margaret Ohameje

WEYMOUTH IT was a special day for David, a veteran of the Falklands war, when he put on his Salvation Army uniform. During his enrolment he told of his 30-year battle with post-traumatic stress disorder and thanked God for the healing that had come through the medical profession and through the steadfast support of his wife, Anita. David testified to a living experience of God and declared his intention to be a faithful soldier of Jesus Christ. He was enrolled by corps officer Major Granville Myers. – G. M.

Maureen Hathaway Soldiers BOSCOMBE ALTHOUGH she has been a Christian for many years, Daphne testified to a life full of fear, grief and tragedy, culminating in the recent death of her husband. Needing friendship and fellowship, she found both at the Army, following an invitation from corps members.

She subsequently decided to commit herself fully to the Army as a uniformed soldier.

Margaret gave a vibrant testimony, confirming her deep knowledge of the Bible. Her initial contact with the Army was when her church used the hall for its worship services. When this arrangement discontinued she decided to make The Salvation Army her church.

Maureen’s mother took her to a Methodist Sunday school when she was eight years old and told her she had to make her mind up about going again. She attended the church for the next 60 years. She became interested in the Army when a member of the corps invited her to assist the work among homeless people. This led to her attending meetings and eventually making the decision to become a soldier.

Corps officer Major Peter Mylechreest enrolled the new soldiers.

– R. C.

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Joan Latheron Andrea Latheron Cassule Adherent members GUISBOROUGH JOAN attended the Sunday school as a child and reunited with the corps through volunteering at the charity shop and sale of work. She decided to take her granddaughter, Laura, to Sunday school and also started to attend meetings with her daughter, Andrea. Joan wanted to make a public commitment to God and the Army to encourage Laura, who became a junior soldier just a few weeks ago.

Andrea took Laura to the parent-and-toddler group, and when her mum started to attend meetings she decided she would go too.

Andrea, who recently joined the puppet ministry team and is a valued member, wanted to show her commitment to God by becoming an adherent member.

Andrea and Joan were welcomed by corps officer Major Mark Price. – S. S.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

NEW COMMITMENTS

Dee Symons Soldier

Ana Marie Chidgey Thomas Wright

GOSPORT AS a teenager, Dee soldiered at Falmouth but moved away. Over the years she has set up a charity in The Gambia and in moving to Gosport became a lay preacher. About three years ago she started attending the corps and decided to become a soldier. Dee’s reinstatement was delayed by ill-health but thankfully she was well enough to receive the soldier’s covenant and testify to God’s love.

She was enrolled by corps officer Major Peter Fallows. – P. F.

Sarah-Jane George Soldier NEWARK SARAH-JANE was enrolled on Pentecost Sunday. Her family and friends attended and were challenged and encouraged by her testimony. A turning point in her life came when she attended a Soul Survivor weekend last year, where she became aware of the fullness of God’s love for her and the work of the Holy Spirit in her life. She was enrolled by corps officer Major Jo Justice. – T. J.

Tom Selwood Katie Selwood Adherent members NORWICH DUSSINDALE TOM, Katie and family became part of the fellowship in November 2010 after reading about the family meetings. Following the launch of Give To Grow last year, Tom and Katie decided to become adherent members and were welcomed by outreach unit leader Territorial Envoy Kerry Giles. – K. G.

Dave Diston Norma Diston Adherent members SWINDON GORSE HILL ANA MARIE and Tom serve in the charity shop. They enjoy the worship and fellowship at the corps and these led them to decide to become adherent members.

Dave and Norma married at the corps and quickly felt at home.

Dave worked for the Army at Davis House in Swindon for some years and Norma formerly belonged to a Methodist family, but feels the Army is now her spiritual home.

The new adherent members were welcomed by corps officer Major Fred Thompson. – L. B.

Pat Donkin Sarah Macamphill Soldiers

Carol Snaith Beryl Ford

Sue Milburn Adherent members Shirley Morris Junior soldier Helen Morris Soldier BATH CITADEL HELEN was brought up in a Salvationist family, becoming a junior soldier at seven years old and a soldier at fourteen. She moved to the Baptist Church in her late twenties, where she helped bring back to faith her future husband. As their daughter, Shirley, was growing up, the family decided it would be helpful if she could find a Christian fellowship that offered her more opportunities for meeting other young Christians, and Helen and Shirley began to go to The Salvation Army.

Helen and Shirley quickly found themselves at home in the corps, and Helen felt, with her husband’s full support, that she wanted to become a soldier again. Shirley decided to become a junior soldier.

Shirley has already revealed her gifts for dance and music in the corps, and participates in the divisional youth chorus. Helen, who alluded in her testimony to ongoing medical issues, said that she had wondered about waiting until a later time before becoming a soldier, but decided there was no point in waiting for some future ‘perfect’ time.

Helen was enrolled as a soldier and Shirley as a junior soldier by corps officer Major Andrew Diaper-Clausen. – C. A.

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

WETHERBY THE corps celebrated Pentecost with the enrolment of two new soldiers and welcome of three adherent members. Each person shared how the Lord had been not only helping them through some very challenging times but also blessing and inspiring them. They have all committed to serving God within the community.

Carol, Beryl and Sue were welcomed as adherent members and Pat and Sarah were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Andrew Vertigan. – A. V.

Gemma Clark James Street Soldiers GRAYS FAMILY and friends supported Gemma and James as corps officers Captain John and Lieutenant Helen Parry enrolled them as soldiers.

Both testified that it was the right time to make a commitment and thanked all those who had encouraged them along their journey. As they went through classes they grew in faith and confidence and are excited to use the gifts God has given them for his service. – J. P.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: Jim and Mrs Iris Houchen, Thornaby (9 July); Alan and Mrs Brenda Sibary, Brighouse.

Golden: Colonels Gordon and Irene Becker (4 July); Majors Andrew and Linda Hamilton (7 July).

DEDICATED TO GOD Laura, daughter of Ico and Andrea Cassule, at Guisborough by Major Mark Price; Isabella Caitlin, daughter of John and Karen Cooper, at Cradley Heath by Captain Liz Hancock; Erica Eliza, daughter of Graham and Karina Dicker, by Colonel David Napier, Jacob, son of Adam and Karen Barber, by Major Alison Hudson, both at Edinburgh Gorgie; Dylan James, son of Keith Vertigan and Jenny Sandall, at Fakenham by Captain Stuart Ashman; Petra Aurelia, daughter of Jonathan and Sarah Elliott, at Canterbury by Major Chris Sands.

BEREAVED Major Ruth Stannett, Czech Republic, of her stepfather David Morris; Songsters Doris and Mike Anderson, Chester-le-Street, of their daughter Lilly-Mae; S/Reservist Kath Coppin of her husband B/Reservist Bert Coppin, Don Coppin and Eddie Coppin of their brother, all Worthing; S/Reservist Eunice Wood, Canterbury, of her brother Douglas Minter; YPSM Susan Stewart, Regent Hall, Jayne Wyatt, Pill, and John Wyatt of their mother Songster Nanette Wyatt; SL Kenneth Burton of his wife Songster Jean

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: Sunbury Court (Senior Leaders Day), Th 28 Jun; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sat 7 Jul - Sat 14 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: Norway, Iceland and The Faeroes, Th 21 Jun Mon 25; Sunbury Court (Senior Leaders Day), Th 28; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sat 7 Jul - Sun 15 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX Swanwick (Women Of Worth Adult and Family Ministries Conference), Fri 22 Jun (eve), Sun 24; Milton Keynes, Sat 23; Westminster (Parliamentary prayer breakfast), Tu 26; Ireland, Th 28; William Booth College (Covenant Day), Wed 4 Jul; Westminster Central Hall (Commissioning), Sat 7; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sun 8 - Sat 14; Sunbury Court (Territorial Music School), Sun 22 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: Swanwick (Women Of Worth Adult and Family Ministries Conference), Fri 22 Jun - Sun 24**; Hadleigh (opening of Park Farm House), Fri 29*;

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Burton and Rtd CT Derek Grimshaw of his sister, both Barnsley.

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: Major Leslie Woodward, Clacton-on-Sea (90 on 30 June); Lieut-Colonel Marjory Dangerfield, Enfield (80 on 2 July).

Retirement address: Major and Mrs Clifford and Patricia Kent, Beckenham.

PROMOTED TO GLORY May Martin, High Wycombe; George Carr, Cynthia Blair, Kirkcaldy; John Yhearm, Barbara Winfield, Leicester Central; Betty Harvey, Cradley Heath.

Major Brian Farrant from Stoke-on-Trent on 13 June.

Major Margaret Farrant lives in Leighton.

TRIBUTES LESLIE SMYTH, LONDONDERRY A LIFELONG member of the Army, Leslie was born in 1923 and dedicated his life to God’s service. He was corps sergeant-major

William Booth College (Covenant Day), Wed 4 Jul; Westminster Central Hall (Commissioning), Sat 7; William Booth College (Farewell Sunday), Sun 8 Commissioner William Cochrane: Sunbury Court (Senior Leaders Day), Th 28 Jun; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul Sun 15 Commissioners Alistair and Astrid Herring: Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul - Sun 15 Commissioners Kenneth and Jolene Hodder: Singapore, Sat 23 Jun - Tu 26*; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul Sun 15 Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina: Mali, Fri 22 Jun - Tu 26; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Fri 6 Jul - Th 12 Commissioners Robert and Janet Street: UK, Lowestoft Citadel, Sat Sun 24 Jun; UK, Margate, Sat 30 Sun 1 Jul; Canada (International Conference of Leaders), Sat 7 - Sun 15 International Staff Band: Westminster Central Hall (Commissioning), Sat 7 Jul *wife will not accompany **husband will not accompany

from 1970 to 1996 and corps historian from 1972 to 2008. He married Mary in 1949 and they had a daughter, Christine.

Leslie became manager and developed the work – with Mary’s help – of the Care and Share charity shop after its opening in 1990.

He was also involved with the work of the Family Tracing Service.

In latter years he was very supportive to everyone in the fellowship and greatly encouraged new people.

Leslie was a talented writer and has left some wonderful words in recently written lyrics set to well-loved tunes. His spirit and influence lives on. – D. M. MRS (OLIVE) JOAN SHEPHERD, SOUTHEND SOUTHCHURCH JOAN was born in Hackney in 1917. She attended Homerton Corps with her family and became a life-saving guard. She married Donald in September 1939 and they had two boys, Colin and Ian. They all attended Clapton Congress Hall.

Joan worked in Hackney Council’s Children’s Department, and ended up fostering 152 children. Linda joined the family after Joan fostered her and couldn’t give her back!

When Donald retired they moved to Southend and attended the corps at Southchurch, where Joan became an active home league member and made some special friends.

At the age of 95, Joan ended her days as she wished – at home, surrounded by her family. – Y. A. DAVID STANWAY, SEAHAM HARBOUR PROMOTED to Glory aged 74 after a short illness, David had expressed his love for God through music as a bandsman and songster, 26 years as corps treasurer and as a company guard. During the Annual Appeal, David was the first to start and the last to finish.

His greatest ministry was pub-booming, where he touched many lives by singing the gospel message in his beautiful tenor voice.

A quiet man, his love for the Lord shone through in kind deeds. His favourite solo – ‘I have not much to give thee, Lord, but all I have is thine’ – was also his testimony, lived out day by day.

David leaves a gap in the lives of many people, especially his sister Evangeline.

– E. C. MRS GWENDOLINE BELL, BARNSTAPLE GWEN was born in 1916 in Torrington and brought up in the Anglican Church. At 15, she accepted an invitation from some Salvationists she worked with in Woolworth’s to

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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NEWS go to the Army. She immediately fell in love with it and became a soldier, songster and corps cadet at Barnstaple.

Gwen left the Army on marriage, but returned after her husband’s death in 1985.

On Easter Sunday 1987 she became a soldier at Bideford, later transferring to Barnstaple.

She loved everything about the Army and enjoyed Annual Appeal collecting and helping on the corps market stall. She also looked forward to New Horizons every year.

During her last three years in residential care, staff described her smile as one that ‘lit up the room’. – M. S.

The couple transferred to Burton upon Trent in 1980, and Bill continued to serve in the band and songsters.

His legacy and influence live on, not only with his children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, but also with all who knew him as a true Christian gentleman.

Bill’s influence was reflected by the large number of people who attended his funeral.

– H. D.

JOSEPH WILLIAM (BILL) HALL, BURTON UPON TRENT BILL was born at Belper in 1924 and spent his early years at the corps, becoming a junior soldier and YP band member before joining the Armed Forces. After military service he returned to Belper, marrying Dorothy in 1952. In 1960 the family transferred to Derby Temple, where Bill was a bandsman and songster.

JACK EBDEN, NORTH SHIELDS BORN in 1916 in the Byker district of Newcastle upon Tyne, Jack was attracted to the Army through an open-air meeting held in his street. This influenced and shaped his future service. He married Kathleen and the family – comprising Kathleen, Raymond and Margaret – moved to Whitley Bay, where Jack became bandmaster and songster leader.

The family moved to North Shields in the 1960s and Jack again took his place in the band and songsters.

A painter and decorator by profession, he

Felixstowe Munch ’n’ Lunch community café group is pictured with a Mayor’s Award for service to the community; thanks to the vision of the centre manager the project – which is staffed by people with additional support needs, offering them the opportunity to serve others – continues to go from strength to strength, offering a valuable service to the community

Cirencester: The corps began its summer outreach programme with visits throughout the town, including a band visit to Barnsley Village Garden Festival and to St Marys’, Tetbury, to help Christ Church Chapel members raise funds to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee with the residents. – M. G. At Clydebank Bandmaster Peter Fuller receives a retirement certificate from corps officer Major Chris Connelly in recognition of 43 years’ service as a local officer; also pictured are Deputy Bandmaster David Henderson and Bandsman Matthew Fuller (holding the flag)

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became President of the Federation of Master Painters and Decorators.

He regularly testified, thanking God for the work of grace in his life, and was a great encourager. He leaves a legacy of faith to his family, whom he loved dearly. – J. G. BANDMASTER IAN BURN, BEDLINGTON AS was his practice, Ian outlined the song featured in the band piece – the march ‘Songs Of The Pioneers’ – before it was played in the praise and salvation meeting: ‘We are bound for the land of the pure and the holy… Will you go?’

Ian was promoted to Glory a few minutes after the completion of the march. It seems the band played their bandmaster of 26 years to the very edge of eternity.

A small man with enormous spirit, Ian was 67. He is missed by his wife Isabel and three sons – Gary, Jason and Andrew – and by extended family, friends and colleagues, who joined hundreds of people at a deeply moving celebration of a life well lived. – E. B.

Bandsman celebrates birthday at concert Great Yarmouth A LARGE congregation warmly welcomed Norfolk Fellowship Brass as it presented a varied programme that included the march medley ‘Heavenward’, ‘Ein Feste Burg’ and ‘Tomado De La Mano’.

Ray Todd (cornet), Malcolm Berry (tenor horn) and Brian Midgley (trombone) excelled in their brass solos and Bram Bryant offered an excellent vocal solo.

The band recognised Bandsman Bram Nurse’s 91st birthday. Conductor David Woodrow presented Bram with a rose bush for his garden to celebrate the occasion (see picture). – J. P.

SALVATIONIST 23 June 2012

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SALVATIONIST 23 JUNE 2012

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CD OF THE WEEK The latest offering from General John Larsson (Retired) is reviewed by Commissioner Harry Read THERE has always been a strong element of ‘sanctified theatre’ within the life and imagination of The Salvation Army. Our early days of open-air meetings with seekers using the drum as a mercy seat, our bands, uniforms and our choice of music halls for meetings were, without intention and probably inadvertently, pure Christian theatre.

Therefore, when Captains John Gowans and John Larsson were invited to join forces and blend their immense God-given gifts to produce a musical, no seismic Salvationist shocks were registered – only pleasure and delight at this creative initiative.

Their remit fell well within the bounds of Army tradition in terms of innovative outreach and the desire to convey gospel truths simply.

The first musical became the first of many and very quickly corps groups (other churches also) took this exciting ministry on board and were revitalised in the process.

This CD, the third volume in the series, recalls the musicals Glory! and The Blood Of The Lamb.

The first points to our beginnings and the second to – we hope and trust – our endings. Both portray life at its worst and, because of the grace of God, life at its very best.

The CD successfully encapsulates the Christian’s experience of salvation from sin, laced with the happy prospect of Paradise.

Glory! is based on Colonel Edward Joy’s book The Old Corps, which is about the characters whose conversions built the spiritual foundations of the historic Folkestone Corps. The Blood Of The Lamb is based on a poem by the American Vachel Lindsay about William Booth entering Heaven and the colourful, diverse characters who pass through the pearly gates due in part to his and the Army’s influence.

Since there are so many songs in each musical a sense of ‘sameness’ would be understandable. Instead, there is a rich variety in lyrics and music and, remarkably, the songs never seem to lose their freshness. Listen to them, sing them, whistle the tunes as often as you will and still they remain fresh, contemporary and relevant.

The secret is that the composers, with the simplicity and skilfulness granted by the Holy Spirit’s obvious guidance upon their efforts, wrote from their hearts to our hearts; we are fellow aspirants after a better life with Jesus as our mutual goal and master. As one of their ‘so easy to identify with’ songs has it, ‘We’re all seeking the same Saviour.’

Our two hugely inspired Generals have blessed us immeasurably and the timeless element of their songs – and scripts, of course – will bless all future generations. That these blessings have been shared, enjoyed, used and appreciated beyond Army boundaries is an added bonus.

I have two suggestions to make. The first is to play the CD with the words of the songs in the 32-page booklet before you and prepare yourself to be blessed.

The second suggestion mainly, though not exclusively, relates to those who have taken part in the musicals.

Would you think of those who were members of your cast and who no longer worship with us? Perhaps you could pray for them and send them a gift copy of the CD in the hope that their spiritual aspirations may again be stimulated.

Enjoy this CD! Q Visit www.johnlarsson.com for further information about the CD series and sample tracks Q John Larsson Plays ‘Glory’! And ‘The Blood Of The Lamb’ is available from SP&S priced £9.99 (plus £2.95 postage and packing) and also from www.amazon.co.uk

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Capel Curig, Wales. Picture: TREVOR JENNENS