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SALVATIONIST WALKING WITH OTHERS SERVING WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION

Without THIS week’s issue of Salvationist invites you to explore the territory’s mission priority of serving others without discrimination. We’re good at serving others, aren’t we? And yet how often do we each skip past those last two words, ‘without discrimination’? John 3:16 doesn’t say ‘for God so loved the world … except for Colin over there’ or ‘but not you, Helen’. But we can so easily qualify our own imperfect love with conditions or limitations. Do you ever love others – showing them compassion and hospitality – but not someone whose circumstances are radically different from yours, or not someone you disagree with? Imagine if the phrase was ‘serving others with discrimination’. That wouldn’t be serving others at all, would it? Because if our service doesn’t begin with God’s unconditional love, we might as well be serving ourselves. We end up without an opportunity to encounter someone made in God’s image and loved by him. We end up without them in our lives or in our Church. They, meanwhile, end up without an opportunity to know Christ. As Gowans and Larsson once said, there are people dying in this world and ‘they need you, they need me, they need Christ’ (songbook 935). Serving others without discrimination? That’s a priority. Fullness of life without Jesus? That’s impossible.

IVAN RADFORD Editor

EXPLORE MORE ONLINE

Visit salvationist.org.uk/ recommended-content Explore our mission priorities and values

5 CORE RECOVERY AT ATHERTON

8+9 WELCOMING SPACES

10+11 BATTLING ADDICTION WITH COMPASSION

6+7 BIBLE STUDY

SALVATIONIST Issue No 2086

EDITOR Ivan Radford

FOUNDERS Catherine and William Booth

ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope

INTERNATIONAL LEADERS General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden GRAPHIC DESIGNER Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE Explore faith and belonging together

£1/€1 24 October 2026

SALVATIONIST

Mutual accountability Learning from each other

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TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Andrew Stone TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101 © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.

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Salvationist 24 October 2026

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TRENDING

Chasing desire With Sense and Sensibility out now, Hermione Hutchings asks if we are running after what we want or seeing what God has given us

HE 2026 adaptation of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, starring George Mackay and Daisy Edgar-Jones, encapsulates perfectly what it means to be a human being. How many times have you found yourself asking why something has happened, or why it hasn’t happened yet? After the sudden death of their father, the lives of the Dashwood sisters are drastically changed; they are left with no money and are forced to leave their house. However, with every dark cloud, comes a silver lining: in this case, love. Elinor falls in love almost at first sight with Edward Ferrars, who is the right man for her in every way but, through

Reflect and respond Read and reflect on Psalm 46. What are the challenges God is telling you to hand over to him? Where are you heading in life? What are you chasing after? Are your motives God-centred? How can you be someone else’s Mrs Jennings? Where can you give a helpful piece of advice?

difficult circumstances, keeps getting pulled away. Marianne, meanwhile, is introduced to the mysterious Colonel Brandon by the wise, but loud, Mrs Jennings, who has impeccable matchmaking skills – but instead Marianne chases the wrong man, who seemingly meets all her expectations, and ends up in a near-death state. (Spoiler: There’s a happy ending!) Are you living for God, or are you living for yourself? I believe we all need a Mrs Jennings in our lives, someone to give us advice and guide us in our walks of faith – it’s very easy to talk about reading the Bible and praying every day, but it’s an important practice that helps keep us aligned with God’s will. Like Elinor, many of us miss out on what we know is right, because we want to uphold a reputation or do what we think is right for other people. I can see myself in Marianne, and I’m sure you can relate. Have you chased something you want for a long time – when, in reality, God has already placed the very thing you need in your life and you just need to open your eyes to realise it? My favourite observation in Sense and Sensibility comes from the younger sister, Margaret, who asks: ‘Why must our father always have your ways?’ The

will of Mr Dashwood was not what the rest of the family had expected and therefore they were left disappointed. They completely missed the fact that their father did still leave them something. The same can be true of us. When things don’t quite go our way, it’s so easy to turn from and blame God, forgetting that he has been so faithful and good to us throughout our lives. When times get tough, I often listen to the song ‘Goodness of God’ to be reminded that he is still there for me. The lyrics of the bridge, which echo Psalm 23:6, say: ‘Your goodness is running after me.’ How many times have you found yourself asking why something has happened, or why it hasn’t happened yet? Turn to God. Psalm 46:1 says: ‘God is our refuge and strength, an everpresent help in trouble.’ God has the best advice and will support you in all you do. If we stop running after what we want, we find that God is running much faster towards us.

HERMIONE HUTCHINGS Southport

Salvationist 24 October 2026

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

TESTIMONY

‘I feel God guiding me’ Debt Advice Caseworker Emma Durrant (THQ) thanks God for the strength to support others

CY Conference: WITH 19 to 21 March 2027 The Hayes Conference Centre

What is it? Themed WITH, the 2027 Children and Youth Conference is a weekend to explore how we can journey with children and young people in the world. In a world that accelerates around children and young people every day, WITH invites us to be formed by Jesus. Together, we will dwell with Jesus, reflect with others, learn with young people, and walk alongside them where they live, question, struggle and hope.

Who is it for? Anyone working with children or young people in their corps, centre or community.

Why should you go? To explore faithful presence and service in the everyday places where God is already at work – to help you and the children and young people you work with to choose depth over speed and connection over noise.

Book your place Weekend tickets, including optional accommodation, are available as well as single-day tickets for Saturday. Prices start from £60 per person. Book before 31 December for an early bird discount! Volunteer grants of up to £100 are available. Visit salvationist.org.uk/ cy-conference.

Salvationist 24 October 2026

Y parents are retired Salvation Army officers and, growing up, I always watched them helping and supporting people. In a way, that’s followed on in my life! My job involves helping people come to solutions to their debts by going through the different options out there. It’s about finding the best one for them and supporting them in that. Caring is something I’ve always done. Before having my daughter, my background was in supporting adults with learning disabilities, and I have also done elderly care. My parents always joked about getting me a place at William Booth College to become a Salvation Army officer, and about how they’d signed me up. And I would always reply: ‘No! Never in a million years would I work for the Army!’ And here we are! Having been in debt myself 10 plus years ago, I feel like I can relate to clients. I just really want to help people get to a point where debt is not overtaking their lives, because it can so easily overwhelm you, especially if you have poor mental health. Over the years, I’ve seen God guiding me – although I’ve not necessarily listened every time! In my role, he has guided me in lots of ways. It can be a difficult job at times, but I feel him giving me the strength to push through for the clients’ sake.

Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear how God is working in your life! Get in touch at salvationist @salvationarmy.org.uk.

There was one extremely difficult client. They suffered from really poor mental health and were not always great at engaging. It would have been quite easy just to say: ‘Here’s your 14-day notice.’ But very early on, I had a conversation with them, and they told me a lot of their problems and were quite open. It was a long, long road. They had been with other advisers as well, which obviously hadn’t been easy. When you suffer with poor mental health, you need to build a relationship with one person, but if you’re going from person to person, that can be difficult. I just felt God guiding me to not walk away from them and to continue to support them. Sticking by them made the difference.

SPOTLIGHT ON…

Atherton Recovery for all God’s timing When I was appointed in 2019, my passion for Core Recovery was often misunderstood as something relating only to people experiencing addiction or homelessness. After the Covid-19 lockdowns, doors began to open and Core Recovery started to snowball. It was the right time, God’s time, and a recovery drop-in began. I went to the Core Recovery conference and it was there I realised this would work for the corps and community. The same things affect people in church as outside church, and we wanted to have a programme that gives people support in those things without being ashamed.

Recovery for all Core Recovery is founded on the idea that everyone has a brokenness, whether it’s from relationships, how we’re brought up or other experiences. We are blessed to have Territorial Chaplaincy Officers

Fast facts DIVISION North West and Isle of Man CORPS LEADER Captain Darron Boulton FIND US ONLINE salvationarmy.org. uk/atherton

Majors Nicky and Martyn Watson as part of our senior corps leadership team, as well as our Community Programme Coordinator Shez Grigg, who is the facilitating face of Core Recovery in the week. Nicky says: ‘Over the past two years, we’ve tried to reimagine the whole programme, so that the whole corps is a Core Recovery corps. It’s not just about having that recovery drop-in or recovery group, but that the whole corps is as welcoming as possible. We’re inclusive by our understanding of what people come with and how they can be comfortable in church.’ Martyn adds: ‘Recovery is for everyone, because we all have things which are not as they should be.’ Core Recovery works under three headings: Welcome, Belonging and Healing. Welcome is underpinned by an understanding of radical hospitality, a trauma-informed approach offering spaces for people to come and be themselves and talk to one another. Belonging is celebrating people’s diversity, so that they can feel and be themselves in a non-judgemental space. Core Recovery is a spiritual programme; it’s healing and recognising that we won’t experience a full recovery unless Jesus is part of it. In any Core Recovery setting we talk about Christian faith, our own experience of it, sharing and praying with one another and looking at stories of Jesus. We ask them to keep an open mind to the existence of God.

people is to know that they’re loved. A mural at our church shares Psalm 34:18: ‘The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ We’ve given people journals and that is becoming a precious thing for people. God is showing up in their lives. Through the week, and over time, people share what’s on their mind or things they’ve experienced. You don’t tend to do that if you only meet for an hour on a Sunday and then go home. We have different levels of recovery help available. We offer a supported trained professional, which is important and safe for some people. We have a peer-led group that is more relaxed. It’s not something we’re doing alone, but in community.

Journals and journeying

• To find out more about Core Recovery, visit tsa.link/what-is-core-recovery or email corerecovery@salvationarmy.org.uk.

We’re journeying with people in their recovery. The most important thing for

Growing disciples We love to explore people’s giftings and what they can bring. Even if they’re not ready for that, they can just come and join us. It’s about progression, not perfection. We’re continually learning how Godly wisdom, compassion and love enrich lives. Putting these things into practice builds our courage and resilience. We’re concentrating on developing spiritual lives in a year-long series about the fruit of the Spirit: ‘love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’ (Galatians 5:22 and 23), spending a month on each. Please pray for our corps as we join God in his Kingdom work.

Salvationist 24 October 2026

BIBLE STUDY

A time to push on Major Matt Butler calls us to be determined in the face of opposition

NEHEMIAH 4:1–24

AVE you ever taken on a task or challenge with good intentions, only to realise it will be hard work? A few years ago, I returned from a break in swimming to take part in Swim Serpentine and the Great Scottish Swim – one and two-mile open water challenges. As I trained, there were times I wanted to give up, times I needed others to encourage me, and times when, in order to keep going, I was literally shouting at myself as I swam. During 22 years as officers, Sarah and I have felt God asking us to lead local Salvation Army expressions into new ministries and transition. There were times when we could have given up, times when others needed to encourage us, and times when we might have shouted at God or had strong words with ourselves. PAUSE AND REFLECT When have you faced a challenge while moving into something new or taking up a task?

Following four months of prayer for desolate Jerusalem, Nehemiah feels burdened by God to act (see Nehemiah 1:5–11). God allows him to petition the King of Persia, who gives permission for Nehemiah to leave the comfort of serving as his cupbearer and return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city. As exiles for decades, the Jews had only heard stories of home. Now they could start dreaming of returning. Nehemiah reaches Jerusalem with others, assesses the walls and organises the rebuilding (see 2:11 to 3:32). In chapter 4, Nehemiah’s efforts draw the attention and opposition of others. 6

Salvationist 24 October 2026

PAUSE AND REFLECT Have you ever set out on something, only to face opposition from others? When we face opposition, it is helpful to understand where it is coming from and to whom it is directed. Nehemiah’s opposition came from those living around Jerusalem who had enjoyed unopposed access to the city and its land for years. Therefore, the rebuilding of the walls impacted their desires, purposes and freedom. Opposition comes from historic enemies of God’s people. They felt threatened. They did not understand the need to rebuild the Temple and city walls. We need to recognise that people see what we do – individually and corporately – and have an opinion on who we are and what we do, even if they are not part of The Salvation Army. We can encounter opposition and challenge due to the expectations placed upon us by those outside our Movement. On a local level, the wider community, local authority and even other churches can seek to direct our mission and ministry. These expectations can be based on past experience, national campaigns or naive understanding of who we are. For 15 years, Sarah and I were involved with leading three local pioneer settings of The Salvation Army. Very quickly, we realised that we had to have clarity about our purpose – clarity for ourselves and clarity in our response to the expectations placed upon us. Just as shire horses wear blinkers in order not to be distracted, we had to put on blinkers to keep us focused on God’s calling over us. Our practice in those communities needed to be based upon God’s calling over us and our team. As a result of being focused on God, we faced opposition from those who didn’t understand us or

God or his purposes for the local church. Opposition can come in many forms, including conversations, emails, ridicule, damage to buildings or the withholding of funding. For Nehemiah, the opposition started as mockery (see v1). Then, as the wall progressed, the opposition moved to planning violence (see v8). Nehemiah responded with prayer and resolve: ‘Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the builders… We prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat’ (vv4–9). However, the increased level of opposition sowed fear and concern among the Jews. They started to see the task before them as overwhelming: ‘The strength of the labourers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.’ (v10). PAUSE AND REFLECT Can you identify times when opposition in various forms created uncertainty and fear in your corps? What was the response? What was the impact? Nehemiah’s response was to also raise the stakes. He stationed guards, and called together the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people. He reminded them of their great and glorious God and that they didn’t need to be afraid. Nehemiah’s enemies heard of this response and did not attack. As the walls continued to be rebuilt, Nehemiah put in place protective strategies to ensure the task would be

Explore Nehemiah with us This is part four in a seven-part series, running from 3 October to 21 November. Find more at tsa. link/devotions or see page 2 to order back issues. To read the full, unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.

Saturday 24 October: Care for Creation – Farmers in God’s Hands Loving God, we lift up all working in our farming communities. Bless them in their endeavours, sustain them in these challenging working conditions, protect them and their animals from harm, and keep them mindful of your love and care, and the care of those around them. taken from bathandwells.org.uk/prayers-for-the-farming-community

Sunday 25 October: Sabbath Prayer – Acting on Homelessness

completed. Men took turns building and keeping guard, and leaders stood among the people; labourers worked with one hand while holding a weapon in the other; all had weapons belted to them; and protocols were arranged to bring people together if attacked, expecting God to fight for them (see vv16–20). Through prayer and strategic planning, the people stayed focused on rebuilding the walls while also being prepared to withstand opposition from their enemies. Nehemiah was able to demonstrate practical realism amid his spiritual devotion. No attack came, and the walls were completed. Today, The Salvation Army corporately – and ourselves individually – can draw opposition from outside our ranks. We need, then, to ensure we stay focused on our calling to proclaim the saving power of Jesus Christ, which, in turn, brings transformation and an invitation to live life in all its fullness (see John 10:10). PAUSE AND REFLECT When do you feel tension between pleasing others and remaining faithful to God? How might you demonstrate practical realism amid spiritual devotion? Are you willing to push on through opposition to fulfil the purposes to which God called you?

When so many still don’t have a safe place to rest, we ask: ‘What can we help rebuild?’ Lord, where are you already at work? Show us. Where are you inviting us to join you? Lead us. Where you call us, give us courage. Where you challenge us, give us humility. Where you send us, give us love. Help us recognise your voice and respond with faithfulness. taken from tsa.link/homelessness-sunday-resources

Monday 26 October: Sharing the Good News – Half-Term and Halloween We pray for children on half term, for rest and restoration, joy and fun. Approaching Halloween, we pray for churches hosting light parties and other such activities, that those celebrations of your light and goodness will make a tangible difference in communities. Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)

Tuesday 27 October: Serving and Caring – London Division – Children and Young People We continue to pray for the impact that our summer school and summer outreach camps had in the lives of our young people. Through this busy autumn term of school, college and everyday life, we pray they will know God is at work in them. May they know they are valued and welcomed in their corps and communities, and that they truly belong. Let’s do all we can to enable them to find their place and their voice in our worshipping communities. Major Steve White (Divisional Leader)

Wednesday 28 October: Justice and Reconciliation – Empathy (Matthew 7:12) Jesus summarises the Law and the Prophets with a simple command: treat others as you would wish to be treated. He invites us to choose to treat everyone with kindness, dignity and respect. God of compassion, fill us with empathy for everyone we encounter. May your love shape our thoughts, words and actions in our daily lives. Hayley Still (THQ)

Thursday 29 October: International Salvation Army – India Western Territory We pray that the good work of many generations will be a solid base of encouragement and reassurance for Salvationists across the territory, and that God’s faithful love will inspire them to believe for even more in the future. We pray for the territorial leadership: for Commissioners John William and Ratna Sundari Polimetla and Lieut-Colonels Santhi and Samraj Babu. Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)

Friday 30 October: Growing in Faith – Ready to Go Further and Deeper Prepare our bodies, our minds and our souls for the ongoing journey of discovery, as we encounter more of you in our lives. Lead us to learn more, seek more, and venture more into the unfathomable riches of love that you have for each one of us. Major Gary Lacey (Assistant Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)

MAJOR MATT BUTLER Divisional Mission Officer South East Division

PRAYER REQUESTS Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.

Salvationist 24 October 2026

REFLECTION

Unconditional love Major Lynne Shaw considers what makes a space safe and why it matters

FEW years ago, I shared prayer time with two lovely women, one of whom would often say ‘as our faces differ, so do our needs’. I’ve reflected on that phrase a few times. It puts us firmly in the category of human being, unique but part of something so much bigger, each needing food, water, shelter, safety and connection, but also needing to understand and care about, and for, each other. I’ve seen how taking the time to listen to someone can make a difference. I’ve seen how accommodating needs can help a person feel valued. And, sadly, I’ve seen the opposite. Not taking the time to understand or care for someone is a fast way to nudge them out of the door; meeting a person’s needs with an unbending culture holds a barrier up before they ever get to hear about Jesus’ love for them. I believe our task is to provide the welcome and unconditional love God offers us, to remember we’re not better than anyone, but are called to be hospitable, kind and patient. A safe space could be defined in a number of ways, but here are a couple of pictures from my own experience. While living in Newquay, our children being young, two of them were in infant school. Having dropped those two off, I’d park by the River Gannel estuary. This beautiful place was one of rest and 8

Salvationist 24 October 2026

sanctuary for me – a space where I was safe to connect with God as I needed, to wrestle with God, to cry and even to shout. Another picture is more recent. I had the opportunity to see a very good friend. I walked into her house and immediately felt at home. Lunch was already on the table – she’d even bought my favourite dessert. These are two pictures of what a safe space could be. When we look at our halls, our centres, our homes and our communities, what can make them safe spaces? Being welcomed? Being known? Having space to be brave? Being free to be fully ourselves? We mustn’t forget the physical aspects of safety either. If someone doesn’t like to be hugged, they shouldn’t have to endure it because someone else does. If someone can’t see a screen or book, they need specific accommodations. Our reasonable adjustments, safe mission and safeguarding policies and procedures are all about meeting these practical aspects of safety, accessibility and welcome. A safe space should be welcoming to everyone, without discrimination or judgement – while, of course, being mindful of criminal behaviour and the consequences of that. Each of us should be able to walk into a room and not sense people talking about us behind our

backs; people’s humanity needs to be seen first, not their appearance or their circumstances. Each of us wants to be seen and valued and, in Jesus, we are – in Jesus’ name, we can humbly reflect that to others. What about spiritual safety? I’ve had conversations over the years with people who have felt rejected because someone else wouldn’t have made the same decision or wouldn’t wear the same clothes. I’ve seen people’s doubts and questions dismissed in fear instead of held in love. Our territory’s mission priority of serving others without discrimination has the deepest of foundations: ‘For God so loved the world’ (John 3:16); ‘Whatever you did for one of the least of these … you did for me’ (Matthew 25:40). Whether someone needs a drink, clothes, a listening ear or even the loo, it’s our mission to welcome and to serve others, not only as if they were ourselves, but as if they were Jesus. We love as God loves us, we serve as Jesus serves us (see Mark 10:45), and we let our compassion speak as it must: good news for all people.

MAJOR LYNNE SHAW Editorial Assistant Publishing Department

REFLECTION

More than housing Captain Martyn Evans reflects on how looking beyond someone’s circumstances is key to tackling homelessness

O some, a home is a physical house, apartment or space where they live with their family – a place of safety and sanctity. For others, a home is a street corner, a doorway. When we think of people who are experiencing homelessness, we may think of people who are sleeping rough, carrying their worldly possessions in a carrier bag that’s falling to bits. Working in a Salvation Army Lifehouse in the privileged position of chaplain, I see that homelessness is far more than the absence of a home; it is often the loss of identity, hope and belonging. We all have life experiences and stories to tell. The people who enter our Lifehouses have some of the most heartbreaking. They range from family breakdown, bereavement and financial hardship to poor mental health, trauma and addiction. Whatever their story, one underlying issue is the same: feeling invisible. We are often so quick to judge people without seeing behind their circumstances. It is my greatest joy to sit down with someone and listen to their

story. Just saying hello or checking in with someone who is having a difficult day builds relationships and helps me see the person for who they truly are. Instead of seeing someone who is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, I see a son, a grandson, a father who is experiencing heartbreak or who’s had their hopes and dreams taken away. Despite everything life throws at them, you see real resilience. As a chaplain, I have the privilege of entering into those stories. Sometimes people want to talk about faith. Sometimes they want to talk about family or grief, disappointments or hopes. Often, what they need most is simply someone who will listen without judgement. I have found that genuine presence is incredibly powerful. On many occasions, a resident has told me that nobody has asked about how they are really doing for a very long time. I have also been humbled by the courage I see every day. I watch residents take small but significant steps forward after setbacks that would have broken many people. I see individuals rebuild relationships with family members, engage with recovery programmes, secure employment opportunities and move into their own accommodation. Those moments are profoundly encouraging, and they remind me that homelessness does not define someone’s future. It is a privilege to share part of someone’s journey,

and I am continually inspired by the strength they demonstrate as they work towards a brighter future. My Christian faith shapes the way I approach this ministry. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consistently notices people who are overlooked. He stops, listens and restores dignity. I believe that same calling is for us today. In a society that rushes past people experiencing homelessness, we are called to slow down, see the individual and recognise their inherent worth as people created by and loved by God. Working within homelessness has challenged many of my assumptions and deepened my compassion. It has reminded me how quickly circumstances can change and how important community, belonging and hope truly are. Homelessness is not simply about housing; it is about people, relationships and restoring a sense of purpose. • Discover how you can support people in finding belonging, hope and a place to call home at salvationist.org.uk/ ending-homelessness.

CAPTAIN MARTYN EVANS Chaplain Centenary House Lifehouse

Salvationist 24 October 2026

INTERVIEW

Reducing stigma Salvationist learns about the impact of needle and syringe provision

EEDLE and syringe programmes (NSPs) are a well-established response to drug-related deaths and harms. Also known as needle exchanges, they provide access to sterile injecting equipment and safe disposal, as well as support around safer injecting practices. The aim of NSPs is to reduce risk and harm, for example the transmission of blood-borne viruses and infections. They also create opportunities for conversations and further support. NSPs are part of the Army’s harm reduction approach, which is about minimising the negative impacts of a behaviour, without requiring someone to stop the behaviour as a condition of support – it is the epitome of compassion in action. As NSPs are often the first point of contact with someone, they are on the front line of serving some of the most stigmatised people in society without discrimination. Major Will Pearson, assistant territorial director of the Addictions Department, talks about the role of NSPs:

How long has the Army provided needle and syringe programmes? We’ve been doing this for more than 15 years. We currently have about 15 centres providing NSPs, as well as one corps, and the number of places is growing.

Why are NSPs important? NSPs are the most researched intervention for harm reduction. What’s so important for us is the message that we care. Often needle exchanges are in little doorways, or hidden behind the scenes. So for us, as a well-known organisation, to say ‘we want to help’ is really powerful. The staff aren’t excited about giving out needles; they’re excited about the conversations that

will happen. These conversations help people move forward in their lives.

What are the common misconceptions around NSPs? When we do NSP training, people often have a couple of initial concerns. If I give a needle and syringe to somebody and they overdose, am I responsible? Am I encouraging people to use drugs? Am I somehow making things worse by giving them the equipment? We must understand that somebody addicted to heroin has to use three or four times a day, otherwise they get really, horribly sick. They’re trapped in that situation. They are not suddenly thinking that, because they’ve been given a needle, they need to go and find some heroin – they’re already dependent on it. NSPs are about opening a way for people to use more safely.

What are the challenges we face? The environment for people using drugs is getting scarier, because of the inconsistency of the drug supply. People addicted to heroin aren’t going out trying to overdose, but what people are buying now is contaminated with more dangerous drugs, including strong synthetic opioids. Another challenge is for politicians to understand the things that help and the things that make it worse.

Where are we breaking ground in response? The wider sector is currently talking about drug-

Booth House Swindon

Devonport House Plymouth

Tŷ Gobaith Cardiff

Our programme is delivered in partnership with CGL and local public health partners. We have a dualcolumn dispensing machine, which allows people to access equipment discreetly when staff are not available, but we prefer to provide equipment face-to-face, rather than it simply being a transaction. Over time, those brief interactions develop into relationships where people feel comfortable talking with us. Our view is that, if someone is going to inject, they should at least have access to clean equipment, accurate advice and a route into support when they’re ready. The NSP is often the first step. It allows us to meet people where they are, without judgement, and start building the trust needed for positive change. Ultimately, it isn’t about needles. It’s about keeping people safe, preserving dignity and creating opportunities for recovery. The programme has been running since May 2024 and we have recorded 240 NSP contacts and issued approximately 1,935 items of injecting equipment and 273 tokens for the dispensing machine. Specialist Support Worker Paul Kyson

All our staff are trained in NSP provision, harm reduction, traumainformed working and first aid. Residents and non-residents are welcome to use the provision 24/7. Through this we have been able to reach the wider community, especially during times of public health emergencies, such as when dangerous batches of substances are in circulation. We run a psychosocial education programme, have provided hepatitis awareness training and a safer injecting workshop led by HepC Trust. Specialist support workers have also delivered naloxone training to the community, and we have collaborated with other services to introduce and expand drop-in services. Our NSP provides an important point of contact for individuals who may be socially excluded or not currently engaged with treatment services. The programme has been running since 2022. It is used approximately 10 to 20 times a day. From July to September 2026, 45 naloxone kits were distributed and 30 dry blood spot tests submitted. Specialist Support Worker Andy Perree

The NSP was initially a small, outof-hours service for when local services such as pharmacies were closed. It opened 24/7 during the Covid-19 pandemic and has continued since. It is for residents only, and it is a responsive service that provides a selection of equipment depending on the substance that a person is currently using. It has also provided support around sexual health, including STI screening, and has given out wound packs for people who have infected injection sites or wounds. Within the NSP are lots of conversations around different types of intervention, and it is supported by local external agencies, including the NHS and public health bodies. Even a 10-minute conversation is an intervention – within those minutes you can lay the seeds of change and engage with somebody. In September 2026, there were 203 transactions, with 2,182 needles issued and 102 foil sheets given out. Addictions Development Officer Zoe Jenkins

checking, people being able to see what’s in their drugs and therefore be safer. We can provide test strips, for example, to detect super strong synthetic opioids called nitazenes. The Salvation Army has also been campaigning to expand access to naloxone, a life-saving medication that temporarily reverses opioid overdoses by blocking the effects of the opioid. Available as a nasal spray or injection, it can allow enough time for emergency services to arrive. We use naloxone at

our centres, and a lot of our centres are doing naloxone and CPR drills.

We also have so many corps running drop-ins, and I’m encouraged by the people attending our training for corps. The training is monthly and runs from February to November every year – sign up!

What brings you hope each day in your role? The stories of kindness and compassion shown by our staff. People don’t always appreciate the value of a positive relationship. For some Lifehouse residents, their support worker might be the only person they really trust, who’s been decent, who’s not given them a dirty look or treated them as less than.

• For more about the territory’s positional statement on drug use and dependency, visit salvationist.org.uk/reducing-harmand-stigma. To sign up to the Addictions Service’s training sessions for corps, email addictionservice@salvationarmy.org.uk. Salvationist 24 October 2026

Opportunity for continuity

Stevie Hope hears why corps are working with The Welcome Directory to help people find fellowship after prison

OU step out of the only life you’ve known for a decade, the fellowship in which you first found Christ. What now? For many people, it can be daunting to leave prison. For some, it might have become their primary faith community. Suddenly, that’s gone. They’re on the threshold of a new start, but they’re stepping away from so much. The Welcome Directory offers an opportunity for continuity. Distributed directly through chaplaincies, this resource – and the not-for profit organisation behind it – helps people find places of worship where they can belong after being released from prison. ‘Registering with the directory creates a clear pathway to connect with people at a critical turning point,’ explains Territorial Chaplaincy Officer Major Carl Huggins. For Captain Theresa Torr (Swindon Gorse Hill), joining the directory was about intentionally positioning the corps as a place where everyone is accepted. While acknowledging that some people

Simeon Sturney and Cath Maughan

might have concerns around safety, she emphasises that the Army has its safeguarding policies, and these apply to every new arrival – no one should be treated differently because of their past. ‘My attitude is: he who is without sin can cast the first stone,’ Theresa reflects. ‘And that will not be me.’ Importantly, this stance of welcome shouldn’t stop at registering with the directory. At Staines Corps, volunteer prison link Cath Maughan shares how prison leaver ministry is part of the weekly rhythm of serving people. Being on the route from HMP Bronzefield to Ashford Station, the corps is a key touchpoint for people heading to their probation destination. Between herself, volunteers from other churches and organisations and Through the Gate Chaplain the Rev Simeon Sturney, there is always someone ready to be there for people leaving the women’s prison. ‘I go to the coffee shop just outside the prison,’ Cath explains, ‘and I wait there. When the women are released,

if they want someone to walk with to the station, then I do that.’ ‘It’s a fairly straight route,’ she adds, ‘but some women have no idea where they are. They’ve come from somewhere else, they’re going to somewhere else. They’ve never been here before because they arrived in a prison van.’ It’s during this time walking together that a need might become apparent: ‘These shoes are rubbish!’ ‘My coat isn’t warm enough…’ 4re, help can be offered. ‘I take them into the hall,’ Cath continues. ‘They can go into the cloakroom and choose a coat or shoes. We also have bags of toiletries and snacks to get them to their first destination. And they’re always welcome to sit and have a coffee.’ It might be daunting to consider what you could do to create opportunities to welcome people leaving prison, but The Welcome Directory can help. ‘Beyond offering practical community inclusion, signing up equips corps teams with specialised training and guidance, ensuring every welcome is grounded in care, confidence and compassion,’ Carl assures. ‘You just want to be there for everyone, and you don’t judge,’ Cath asserts. ‘Once they’re released from prison, they are like anyone else. And it’s our role – our Christian duty – to care for everyone the same.’ As the number of prisoners being released is set to increase in England and Wales under the government’s early release scheme, perhaps now, more than ever, we need to see the people, not their past. • Find out more about The Welcome Directory at welcomedirectory.org.uk.

STEVIE HOPE Assistant Editor Salvationist

Salvationist 24 October 2026

Unseen impact

Peter Woods shares an example of compassionate, selfless service

HETHER you have been in The Salvation Army all your life or not, there will be people who have made a difference in your life. People who have welcomed you. People who have given you encouragement. People who have offered you a listening ear. People who have helped carry a burden. Our territory’s mission priority of serving others without discrimination perhaps brings to mind grand acts or bold initiatives, but the truth is that serving others is often found in the smallest of gestures. A kind word or a moment of time taken. ‘Myra was a lifelong soldier,’ recalls Peter Woods. ‘She was one of those quiet, steadfast members who carry out their ministry, day in and day out, away from the spotlight. I think of people like Myra as The Salvation Army’s band of silent angels – those who seek no recognition.’ ‘Her time at Wollaston perfectly illustrated this spirit,’ he continues. ‘While a congregation can sometimes be hesitant toward new or inexperienced officers, Myra bucked the trend. She became a vital lifeline for those finding their feet, including Major Christine Hird. Major Christine recently shared this: “I have precious memories of Myra in my early days of corps leadership. I shall always be grateful for the support she showed me during those daunting

days. The song ‘I Believe in Angels’ became real to me because Myra was an angel, providing the practical help and compassion I needed.” ‘Myra was still relatively young and inexperienced herself, yet this never hindered her ministry.’ Major Joy Caddy also recalled to Peter: ‘I was a chaplain to a care home during the Covid-19 pandemic, exhausted by the weight of multiple bereavements and the ache of being far from my own family. I soon discovered that Myra didn’t just need a visitor; she was a natural sanctuary. Myra’s home became a rare place where I, usually the one giving, was invited to receive.’ Myra’s support spanned decades and distance. ‘In the late 1980s, when our daughter, Ruth, was training in Devon, we grew close to Captain Joan Cutland at Exmouth,’ Peter adds. ‘Upon hearing that Joan was unwell, Myra didn’t hesitate to open our home in Northamptonshire to her. That act of hospitality sparked a friendship that endured for 40 years. Four decades later, Myra made it her mission to call every few days. She maintained this even as she began to face the early stages of her own final illness.’ Serving others without discrimination isn’t just about serving others regardless of their background, experiences or status, but also serving others

regardless of where you find yourself. In a too-often loveless world, serving others is nothing more than being with people – rather than doing for or doing to people – and sharing a natural outpouring of God’s love. ‘Myra’s warmth reached people from Norway and Finland to the remote reaches of northern Canada, across America and throughout the Middle East,’ Peter reflects. ‘Whether she was speaking to a guest at the Aggie Grey’s Hotel in Samoa or a stranger in a local aisle, her mission remained the same.’ ‘From 2004 to 2009, Myra brought this same spirit to her leadership of the over-60 club at Wollaston Corps,’ Peter continues. ‘To honour the year’s high achievers in puzzles, quizzes and word searches, she hand-crafted cloth medals. One winner, beaming with a smile, remarked: “This is the first time I have won anything in my life, let alone being presented with a medal.” It was a small gesture that restored a sense of pride to the group’s members. Her devotion to others also extended to her mother’s care home in Sidmouth, where Myra organised holiday services and spent hours listening to residents.’ Peter jokes about Myra once returning home from shopping with lots of bags: ‘I thought, “At last, she’s bought something for herself!” But the bags didn’t hold clothes – instead, out poured tennis balls, painting books or colouring pencils! She was already preparing Christmas boxes for disadvantaged children.’ Everyday service that flows from God’s love for us almost always takes place away from the spotlight. It’s unseen – but its impact is undeniable and is long remembered. Who has made a difference in your life? How can you do the same for others? Salvationist 24 October 2026

ARMY UPDATES

EVENT BELFAST TEMPLE Four decades of the corps music school and the 50th anniversary of the corps moving to its present location were celebrated. Special guests for the weekend, Derick and Hazel Kane, led our music schools in the 1980s. The weekend began with a celebratory dinner. About 70 guests enjoyed a fabulous meal and reconnected with people from all parts of the UK. Saturday was filled with band and choral rehearsals in preparation for Sunday. A reunion band of about 40 players started the Sunday morning with the march ‘To Regions Fair’ and a 50-strong chorus contributed the energetic ‘Good Soldiers Never Look Back’. Kirsten Hewitt and Karen Hunter spoke on behalf of former students and testified to how attendance at music camp had shaped their early Christian experiences. To round off a great morning of praise and worship the chorus and congregation joined forces in a rousing version of ‘Count Your Blessings’ complete with piano duet accompaniment, led by another former leader, Lesley Redhead. Perhaps the most important takeaway was that camp was never just about music, and it is impossible to calculate the number of lives touched by the Christian values taught and experienced by those who attended. – WC

HOMELESSNESS EXETER TEMPLE A café run by people with lived experience of homelessness, addiction and neurodiversity opened at the corps. Café EX4 began when Daniel Martins and two friends from Gabriel House supported living accommodation needed food hygiene certificates to prepare meals for fellow residents. Their small basement operation became the DBN Café at St David’s Church. When the space became too small, Dan approached the Army – the corps has a large industrial kitchen and a congregation already committed to community feeding. Celebrity chef Michael Caines cut the opening ribbon. – AR

OUTREACH COVENTRY CITY More than 40 people of all ages, including several who do not regularly attend the corps, attended the corps’ first Gamesfest. The relaxed evening offered darts, pool, table tennis and board games, providing plenty of friendly competition and opportunities for conversation. It was encouraging to see new faces joining in, making connections and enjoying fellowship across the generations. – SW

EVENT GLOUCESTER HOUSE During an open house event, former GP Nicholas shared how the Lifehouse team saved his life after his own journey through alcohol addiction. He shared how his experience shows that addiction reaches every profession and every level of influence – and that recovery is possible for all of them. – AR

ENVIRONMENT CONSETT Ahead of Creation Sunday, we did our first corps litter pick. We offered our time and energy, not only as an act of worship and service, but also as friends working together to improve our community. – HM

MUSIC

MEETING PRESTONPANS The congregation visited the home of a bedbound member of the fellowship, who, along with her son, used to attend the corps regularly. Geoff Barker conducted the house meeting, and the group were accompanied by Major Christine Bailey, who led the meeting at the corps earlier the same day. – CB 14

Salvationist 24 October 2026

CONSETT The first Music in the Round saw lots of people gathering to enjoy a cup of tea and a scone while listening to the band, songsters and Consett Brass each perform a 20-minute programme. The morning raised over £300 for the Big Connection. – HM

Salvationist wants to hear from you! Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk to tell us about your events, outreach, fundraising, mission and more.

EVENT CLOWNE Harvest Messy Church included creating leaf crowns, handprint trees, newspaper plant pots, wooden spoon farmers, cupcake pumpkins and wool-wrapped pumpkins. In celebration time, the focus was the story The Enormous Pumpkin. The prayer focus was about being hand-picked by God to shine his light. Many new families were welcomed and prayers were said, asking that the message of God’s love will shine throughout the community. – GH

CHILDREN AND YOUTH LUTON Three events over the summer provided a safe space for families and for sharing God’s love. The themes were The Good Samaritan, The Lost Son, and Jesus Saves, explored through bouncy castles, play and crafts. The corps connected with approximately 50 families – the majority of whom were not previously connected to the corps – and it was great to see the hall full. – JH

OUTREACH

INTERNATIONAL

Army speaks on older persons’ rights GENEVA AT the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, The Salvation Army delivered a statement on the rights of older persons with cognitive impairment during an interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert. The dialogue considered the report Cognitive Impairment and the Continuing Exercise of the Human Rights of Older Persons. Speaking on behalf of The Salvation Army, Markus Hofer, United Nations Representative in Geneva, welcomed the focus on autonomy, participation and human dignity. The statement stressed that autonomy does not simply disappear when cognitive abilities change. Instead, people can be supported in practical and relational ways so that their voices continue to be heard and their preferences are respected. – AR

LUTON The band joined the Luton Council of Faith’s 30th anniversary peace walk to highlight unity across the community. It was a privilege to play music on the theme of peace to show our desire to see a town that works and lives together well. – JH

MEETING COVENTRY CITY A small group from the band led the monthly worship meeting at Earlsdon Park Village’s Christian fellowship. Fellowship members chose their favourite songs, which included ‘In Christ Alone’, ‘Count Your Blessings’ and ‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’. Bandswoman Hayley Peaple shared insights from her ministry as a chaplain in an older people’s home, and Bandmaster Catherine Wallis brought a Bible message. – SW

REMEMBRANCE HARRIET GARDENS In response to Suicide Prevention Week, staff member Brian Morrison and Chaplain Julie Taylor (Eva Burrows Lifehouse) organised a candlelight vigil for the supported living community. The well-attended event was beautiful, with readings and prayer. Refreshments were served, with Julie on hand to help anyone who needed further support. – JT

ECUMENICAL THE HAYES CONFERENCE CENTRE Delegates representing a diverse mix of Church traditions – including The Salvation Army – came together under the theme Belief, Identity and Belonging. Sessions included ecumenism and evangelism, interactive Bible study and responding to Christian nationalism. Delegates returned home believing their witness must be credible, their relationships must be deep, and that God still has a plan for his people. – PR

CHILDREN AND YOUTH BRISTOL SOUTH An inclusive sensory hub for under-18s with special educational needs and disabilities and their carers opened at the corps. Corps leader Captain Clare Kinsey said: ‘If creating spaces like this helps someone feel safe enough to encounter the hope of Jesus Christ, then it absolutely matters, and we’ll always do our best to make that possible.’ – AR

HARVEST IPSWICH CITADEL To celebrate Harvest, the talented team created a display to welcome people into the foyer, as well as smaller displays around the main hall. During the festival, the congregation brought gifts of food and toiletries to go to people in the community. The food was kept for food parcels and given to a local food bank, soup was given to charity Ipswich Outreach, and toiletries were given to Lyndon House Lifehouse. – DC Salvationist 24 October 2026

NEW COMMITMENTS

PARKHEAD CLEMENT and Deborah and their daughter, Shalom, were enrolled as soldiers. Their son, David, was welcomed as an adherent and their son, Michael, was enrolled as a junior soldier. Evangeline Kingsley-Grace (now a cadet at William Booth College) welcomed David, and corps leader Captain Amy-Jo Battersby enrolled Clement, Deborah, Shalom and Michael. Clement and Deborah were adherents but wished to become soldiers and Shalom wished to take the step to soldiership too. David was led through classes by Evangeline, and was supported by his prayer partner Erland Smith. Michael was also led through his classes by Evangeline. He was supported by young people’s worker Rebecca Merser, and prayer partner Gareth Merser. It was such a wonderful sight to see this family making their commitments. – AD

SALISBURY THE corps was blessed as three of the fellowship made the decision to commit to adherent membership. Pam Mellish joined the corps as a volunteer in its shop before coming to Sunday meetings to help serve refreshments. Soon she was very much part of the church family. Digby Thomas Bennett came to know the fellowship when attending a Sunday afternoon Bible study, which he and his wife Kirsten unexpectedly stumbled across during the Covid-19 pandemic. This led to further exploration of the Army’s values and attendance at Sunday meetings. Louise Payne moved to a new housing complex following the death of her husband. Looking for a church fellowship to link up with, she was encouraged by another resident and corps member to try the Army. All three were sympathetically and thoughtfully led through the adherent membership commitment by Recruiting Sergeant Major Christine Parkin. Also pictured are Assistant Recruiting Sergeant Shilling Masih and corps leader Captain Martin Davison. – MD

STIRLING AVERY Russell was enrolled as a soldier and James Ives was welcomed as an adherent by Avery’s mum, Major Ruth Russell (Hawick), who also led worship. Avery testified to God being with her as she starts a challenging journey in teacher training. James spoke of God’s faithfulness to him during a very difficult year. Major Ruth sang a duet with her husband, Ben, and challenged the congregation to put on the full armour of God and ask for God’s protection. Corps Sergeant-Major Margaret Cunningham prayed for them, and corps leader Major Andrina Downie presented gifts from the corps. – AD

ISLE OF WIGHT 16

Salvationist 24 October 2026

CANDICE, Edith, Henry and Leo were enrolled as junior soldiers during our young people’s celebration weekend at the corps. Candice, Edith, Henry and Leo helped take part in leading the meeting and shared in a question-andanswer style time of testimony. They are pictured with corps leaders Lieutenants Luke and Rachel Furlong. – RF

GOVAN THE corps were delighted to welcome Ramat Adenike Abdulsalam, known as Nike, as an adherent. Nike spoke of her love for God and the warm welcome she had received since attending the corps. Nike first encountered the corps after attending an event held by a community group that had hired the hall. Nike and her family were new to the area and looking for a spiritual home. The day was extra special as Nike also dedicated her daughter, Tumini, back to God. Also pictured are Recruiting Sergeant Divisional Envoy Gerry Ranachan, corps leader Major Helen Schofield and Alison Gillespie. – SJ

HOXTON

NORTH SHIELDS

DURING our young people’s annual celebration weekend, Sophie, Darmian, Daren and Isaac were enrolled as junior soldiers by Captain Naomi Kelly (Middlesbrough), who led the celebrations. Also pictured is Sunday school leader Lorna Cook, Corps Sergeant-Major Stephen Cook and Sunday school leader Anne Gallagher. It was a great celebration Sunday! – SC THE corps has welcomed eight new adherents in recent months. Natalie passed by our church on the bus one day, saw our invitation banner outside and knew instantly that God wanted her and her children to be part of our congregation. Amanda came in through our Open Door project to use Employment Plus, where she was supported to find employment and then came to worship with us. Calvin and Margaret became our youngest and oldest adherents as they were welcomed together in a service. Calvin has attended the corps since he was a baby, and Margaret came in through our Open Door project to a community event and was invited to worship by another member. Many of Margaret’s family attended worship to support her on the day. Ejide, known as Fergie, came to worship when invited by another member. She testified to the amazing welcome she has received since first walking in, and to wanting to be part of all that God has in store. Deborah came to worship with her grandma one Sunday and kept coming back. Deborah, her sister, Esther, and her mum, Grace, expressed the desire to grow more in Jesus and to be united when being welcomed as church members. Gabriel, who is part of the same family, supported his mum and sisters as they made their commitments. – SS

NOTTING HILL DURING the visit of Divisional Leaders Majors Mandy and Steve White, Kerry Ohara was welcomed as an adherent. Kerry has been attending the Sanctuary Project at the corps for a long time and has found something special through doing so. More recently, she offered to serve in a volunteer capacity and has been attending Sunday celebration meetings. Kerry is pictured with Major Steve and the corps senior leadership team. – AR

CORPS Sergeant-Major Stephen Cook welcomed Megan Jeffries, David Keating and Marilyn Chamberlain as adherents. To God be the glory! – SC

KIRKCALDY

THE corps continued its 140th year celebrations with a weekend that considered the international elements of our mission. As part of the occasion, corps leader Captain Andrew Manley welcomed Kingsley and Onyi Udeh as adherents and enrolled Gianna and Nashe as junior soldiers. Kingsley and Onyi had been worshipping at the corps for about 18 months before making the decision to become adherents. Gianna and Nashe made the Junior Soldier’s Promise before kneeling at the mercy seat to sign their cards. Kingsley gave thanks to God, and both junior soldiers spoke about why they had made their promises. We give God all the glory. Also pictured are Recruiting Sergeant Major Mary McDonald and Major Lynn Farmer and Flora Ferguson, who helped lead the junior soldiers’ classes. – AM

Salvationist 24 October 2026

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff Effective 1 January 2027 MAJOR JANTJE (JOLANDA) FENNEMA, officer of the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovakia Territory, as Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, Eastern Europe Territory, with the rank of lieut-colonel Effective 1 February 2027 COMMISSIONERS GEOFF AND KALIE WEBB, officers of the Australia Territory, as Compliance and Policy Coordinator, IHQ, and Principal, International College for Officers COLONELS HARUN AND BEATRICE CHEPSIRI, officers of the Kenya West Territory, as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, with the rank of commissioner; Colonel Beatrice on 1 February and Colonel Harun on 2 February COLONELS BISHOW AND PAMELA SAMHIKA, officers of the Zimbabwe, Botswana and Madagascar Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Kenya West Territory

Appointed

Effective 1 January 2027 COLONEL JANET ROBSON, additional appointment, Executive Officer, International Staff Songsters

Local officers appointed

RECRUITING SERGEANT MARION KNIGHT, Rochdale CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR JEAN BRIGGS, Rochdale CORPS MISSION ENABLER ROY BRIGGS, Rochdale QUARTERMASTER STEVE WILLIAMS, Rochdale ASSISTANT YOUNG PEOPLE’S SERGEANT-MAJOR KATE OSEI, Sittingbourne ASSISTANT CORPS SECRETARY MORAG WILLIS, Sittingbourne

Promoted to Glory

JOYCE EDMANDS, Burton-on-Trent BANDSMAN CLIVE SMITH, Reading Lower Earley, on 14 September

ENGAGEMENTS General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Sat 17 Oct – Wed 28 Oct India Eastern Territory and Nepal

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

Sat 24 Oct – Sun 25 Oct Southend Citadel Wed 28 Oct – Thu 29 Oct South West Division Thu 5 Nov William Booth College (Neurodiversity Conference)*

Chief Secretary Colonel Howard Russell

Mon 26 Oct 10 Downing Street (Summit for Ending Rough Sleeping)

Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Janet Robson Sat 24 Oct THQ (Children and Youth Hackathon) *Commissioner Jenine Main only

NOTICES Update your corps webpage for Christmas

A series of free webinars is available to help you update your corps webpage. Find out more at tsa.link/digitaltraining.

The Entertainer Toy Appeal

The Salvation Army’s Toy Appeal partnership with The Entertainer has ended following a widespread review of how best to support corps at Christmas. The Army is grateful to The Entertainer and the many corps and divisional teams who helped make the partnership a success. For Christmas Present Appeal resources, see tsa.link/christmasresources. For advice or support in planning your local response, email communityservices@salvationarmy.org.uk.

SOUNDS Sunday Worship

MAJOR MARGARET FARRANT from Woodheath Care Home, Upton, on 5 October

Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Colonel Julie Forrest (THQ), sharing her address from Together 26. Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

LIEUT-COLONEL MIRIAM PULL from her home on 6 October

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

Bereaved

No Age Limit

PENNY SCOTT, Andover, from Countess of Brecknock Hospice on 1 October MAJOR MICHAEL LEONARD from Lindisfarne House care home, Seaham, on 2 October

COLONEL GORDON BECKER and Colonel Irene Becker of their son Adrian Becker RETIRED RECRUITING SERGEANT EDDIE EDMANDS, Burton-on-Trent, of his wife Joyce Edmands, Lynn Dolman, David Edmands and Sue Ussher of their mother

Join Andy and Ali from Older People’s Ministries for an hour of music, chat and testimony. This month features Territorial Chaplaincy Officer Major Carl Huggins. Listen live on Sunday 25 October at 5pm. The episode is repeated on Friday 30 October at 11am.

CORPS SECRETARY ANDREW SCOTT, Andover, of his wife Penny Scott, Andrea Beechy and Richard Scott of their mother

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

JAYNE ROWLAND, Clacton-on-Sea, Michael Leonard and Andrew Leonard of their father Major Michael Leonard

A young person linked to The Salvation Army shares five tracks they love. This month’s episode features Sophie Mallet (Portsmouth Citadel).

ELSIE BONIFACE, Trevor Pull and Christine Pull, all Bromley Temple, of their mother Lieut-Colonel Miriam Pull

18 18

Salvationist Salvationist 2624 September October 2026 2026

Me and My Playlist

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts.

ADVERTS

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THE LONDON CENTRAL FELLOWSHIP BAND with Bandmaster David Daws Saturday 21 November, 7pm Donation tickets on the door Adults £5, children free

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RECRUITING NOW INDEPENDENT COMMITTEE MEMBER SATCoL AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) was established in 1991 and evolved from our parent charity’s interests in reuse and recycling, charity shops and other community-based initiatives – today we continue to raise funds to help The Salvation Army with its important work supporting vulnerable people. For further information about SATCoL, please see our website: salvationarmytrading.org.uk/about-us. We are seeking an independent committee member to join our Audit and Risk Committee, which reports to our board of directors. This role provides independent assurance and constructive challenge to support effective governance, financial oversight and risk management. Key responsibilities • Provide independent scrutiny and constructive challenge on financial, audit and risk management matters. • Review financial reports, internal controls and audit findings. • Monitor the organisation’s risk register and risk management framework. • Support oversight of internal and external audit recommendations. Person specification • Professional financial qualification (eg ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CGMA, CIPFA) • Experience in finance, audit and risk management. • Strong communication and people skills. • Sensitive to the aims and ethos of The Salvation Army. • Personal behaviours in line with our company values of compassion, accountability, respect and equality. This will be a voluntary position with preparation time and attendance required for at least four meetings across the year. Meetings take place during business hours, with at least two held via Microsoft Teams. On-site meetings are held at our Wellingborough offices. To apply, send your CV and cover letter to susan.griffin@satcol.org. For further enquiries, email susan.griffin@satcol.org.

Hear from us every week with magazine highlights read by Lieut-Colonel Rob Garrad Listen at salvationist.org.uk/audiomagazine

Salvationist Day Month 2024

THEY NEED YOU, THEY NEED ME, THEY NEED CHRIST. SASB 935

SALVATIONIST