NEWS
Salvation Army leaders call for prayer and care after mosque attacks
The Salvation Army responds after deadly tornados
CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
USA
AFTER mass shootings at two mosques, which claimed the lives of 50 people, Territorial Commander Commissioner Andy Westrupp (New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory) issued the following statement… ‘The Salvation Army stands with our Muslim brothers and sisters today, and totally condemns this unprecedented act of violence in Christchurch towards people who were peacefully at worship. ‘The horror of these attacks reminds us of our shared humanity and the urgent need to stand for love and peace. Everyone will do that in their own way, some by praying, as we will. The response of caring for others is another way – this is also the path that our faith calls us to. But regardless of religious belief, caring is a response we all can share. ‘We think of all those in Christchurch today who will be feeling anxious and grief-stricken. You are not alone. We stand with you.’ Christchurch City corps officer Lieut-Colonel Gordon Daly was a co-signatory to an open letter written to the city’s Muslim community from the city’s Christian churches, assuring them of ‘friendship and support at this time of great loss’. General Brian Peddle, who served in New Zealand from 2007 to 2009, said: ‘Thoughts and prayers from The Salvation Army are focused on New Zealand today. One life lost is a tragedy but this is deplorable and unprecedented in such a beautiful place and people. God bless this nation and all peoples who dwell there.’ – A. R. 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
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Salvationist 23 March 2019
Bellshill corps officer Major Chris Connelly presents RS Sam Ritchie with a certificate of retirement as he concludes more than sixty years of service as a local officer at Bellshill and Parkhead; Sam has had a significant influence on the lives of many people and has held a range of local officer positions
Birkenhead corps officer Captain Sam Hamilton leads a whole Sunday meeting from a boat – even singing with the songsters from there – to emphasise the theme: If You Want To Walk On Water, Then Get Out Of The Boat
THE Salvation Army’s wellrehearsed emergency response swung into action after tornados hit Alabama and Georgia. The worst storm struck around Beauregard, with tornados carving a path of destruction at least half a mile wide. The US National Weather Service reported that more tornado deaths occurred from this single incident than throughout all of 2018. Several people are known to have lost their lives, with many more injured or left with significant damage to their homes and businesses. In the immediate hours following the storm the Army provided 200 meals to first responders. In addition to tending to the physical needs of those affected, The Salvation Army is providing emotional and spiritual care. After further tornados hit Columbus and Cairo in neighbouring Georgia, canteens from Columbus, Newnan and Bainbridge were activated to assist with service delivery. – H. K.
The manager and regulars wear national costume, Welsh rugby shirts or red clothes to celebrate St David’s Day at Skewen Breakfast Club
