Salvationist 25 January 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1740 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 25 January 2020

En avant!

Going forward in France and Belgium PLUS THE ALL TERRAIN PODCAST

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

WELCOME FOR BAN ON CREDIT CARD GAMBLING The Bishop of St Albans, Dr Alan Smith, has welcomed this… announcement from the Gambling Commission that consumers will no longer be able to use credit cards to gamble from April 2020.

The Gambling Commission has announced the ban will come into effect on 14 April. It follows their review of online gambling and a government review. A public consultation was carried out late last year.

Over 20 million adults in Great Britain gamble, with 10.5 million of those gambling online. UK Finance estimates that 800,000 consumers use credit cards to gamble.

‘This marks a significant step in progressive policy-making, reducing the risks to gamblers,’ said Bishop Smith.

‘For too long people have been vulnerable through gambling with money they don’t have, using credit cards, additionally incurring the costs of borrowing alongside any losses…’

Separate research undertaken by the Commission shows that 22 per cent of online gamblers using credit cards to gamble are classed as problem gamblers – with even more at some risk of harm.

‘I was delighted when both the government and Labour pledged to deliver a ban on credit card gambling,’ said Bishop Smith… after the announcement.

‘However… fundamental reform is needed if we are to ever make significant progress for the hundreds of thousands affected by gambling-related harm.’

The Church of England Newspaper

SALVATIONIST (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – (tel) 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – (tel) 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – (tel) 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – (tel) 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – (tel) 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 25 January 2020

WELSH GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES ‘HIDDEN HOMELESSNESS’ CAMPAIGN

NEW DIGITAL SURVEILLANCE FEEDS RISK OF PERSECUTION

The Welsh government, working with housing charity Shelter Cymru, has launched a new campaign to tackle awareness of so-called ‘hidden homelessness’, particularly among young people.

The campaign… advises the public on what to do if they are concerned about someone they know.

Research suggests that people overwhelmingly connect the idea of homelessness with rough sleeping – which is not the case for most young people experiencing homelessness.

People can still be classed as homeless if they are sofa surfing or staying somewhere temporarily… or somewhere that is not suitable for them or their family.

The campaign suggests that people should look out for signs, including someone having difficulties… with their parents and close family members, being reluctant to go home, keeping belongings with them or asking for help with money.

The number of Christians facing extreme or high persecution has risen sharply in the past year, as the use of new digital methods to monitor worshippers has increased.

The latest World Wide Watch List, compiled by the charity Open Doors, which monitors the persecution of Christians round the world, shows a 6 per cent increase in the number of Christians persecuted for their faith.

The latest list also reveals that new methods are increasingly being used to monitor and target religious believers, including artificial intelligence and biometric surveillance…

The Watch List was first compiled in 2002 and, since that date, the worst country for Christians has remained the same: North Korea – where owning a Bible can lead to arrest and internment in a labour camp.

Inside Housing

Church Times

DO THESE TEN THINGS IN 2020, BISHOP TELLS LIVERPUDLIANS The Bishop of Liverpool, the Right Rev Paul Bayes, is encouraging people to ‘do ten things that will make a difference’ in the world in 2020, such as supporting a charity, volunteering at a food bank, donating blood, or supporting people with mental illness. ‘Do Ten Things is a simple idea,’ he said. ‘It calls us to find things we wouldn’t normally do to make the world a better place. Of course, “ten” does not limit our lives, and no one will be penalised if they do eleven. Yet for many of us the initial challenge is being able to think of ten, and if we can’t then we might get discouraged and give up.’

Church Times

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ISSN 2516-5909

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Malcolm Davies

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CONTENTS

GETTING TO KNOW YOU JUST over 18 months ago we revised the back page of Salvationist and introduced a feature called ‘The Salvation Army and me’. It was not a completely new idea – a similar series called ‘The questionnaire’ started in October 1997 and ran for a year.

The two series aren’t exactly the same, however. The original one had different questions, including ‘What is your best characteristic?’ and ‘How long should a sermon be?’ It also asked people to tell a joke.

The people taking part back then were mainly officers from headquarters, but ‘The Salvation Army and me’ includes a wide variety of people: officers, soldiers, adherent members, employees and volunteers; people of different ages, backgrounds, ethnicities and experiences; and people from all across the territory. I’m grateful to the 76 people who have responded so far. Getting to know them has helped us understand the territory a little better.

A new monthly series beginning this week is designed to help us get to know the Army beyond our borders. ‘In the zone’ will give insights into other territories and commands in the Europe Zone. France was the first continental European country in which the Army began, so we start the series with the France and Belgium Territory on pages 12 and 13. As in many other parts of the zone, The Salvation Army in that territory faces significant challenges but is carrying out its mission faithfully, and with energy and enthusiasm.

On pages 10 and 11 Phil Ball tells us about The All Terrain Podcast, which is a recent initiative from the Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit. Each month a guest on the programme answers four questions: How do you face change? How do you move through suffering? How do you receive joy? How do you mature in service?

Phil states that the podcast ‘enables people to hear the stories and wisdom of others in the wider Church, listening for significant personal moments and wondering how God may be leading them as they move through their journey of discipleship’. In other words, by getting to know others we can get to know ourselves and what God has in mind for us.

A new book, reviewed on page 15, can also help us benefit from insights into other people’s lives. Twelve Ordinary Men by David Vandebeulque is about Jesus’ first disciples. In his review, Major Iain Hudson suggests that as we understand the disciples better we may recognise some of their traits in ourselves, which can help us in our own discipleship.

Page 15 also has a preview of Contentment, an audio download in which Commissioner Keith Banks reads some of his own poetry. ‘Those poems of a devotional nature emerge from my own spiritual quest and God’s presence in my life, while others relate to some deeply tender experiences,’ he writes, adding: ‘There are some lighter insights too!’

Human beings are made to relate to one another. John Donne wrote: ‘No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.’ Our relationships can help us grow, but that won’t happen if we close ourselves off from other individuals, social groups or nations. By learning about them we learn from them – and in doing that we can better understand how to live for God and for others.

Quotes from the media

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News

4 to 8

Feature Investing in the next generation

9

by Matt Perkins

Feature Putting faith in pod

10 and 11

by Phil Ball

In the zone 12 and 13 France and Belgium Territory Thinkaloud A question of sport

14

by John Coutts

Review 15 Twelve Ordinary Men: Trained And Transformed By Jesus reviewed by Major Iain Hudson

Preview Contentment

15

by Commissioner Keith Banks

Bible study Paul’s obedience

16 and 17

by Major Denis Lomax

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Philippa Smale

New commitments

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Letters

19

Announcements Adverts

20 and 21 21 to 23

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring Liz Menagh

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

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NEWS

Salvation Army assists evacuees INDONESIA SALVATION Army teams have responded across Jakarta to floods that killed at least 43 people and led to more than 190,000 being evacuated.

Response teams were put together of Salvationists from corps in the capital city and cadets from the training college.

The territory’s medical services also assisted in co-operation with the Indonesian Christian Association for Health Services.

Meals and hot drinks were given to people from badly affected communities. Young people from Jelambar Corps

helped with the evacuation food distribution.

In the four days of initial response 1,939 meals hot drinks were served

and the and and

Ringwood Band plays carols at The Elm Tree Inn 100 years after corps musicians played there when it was a farmhouse

GORSEINON: The corps held its first Messy Church over Christmas. Many excited children wanted to learn about Jesus throughout the amazing afternoon. – M. C. 4

Salvationist 25 January 2020

154 people received medical services.

The teams are monitoring conditions and remain on standby in case of further rain. – A. R.

K E TTE R IN G C ITADEL: More than 500 people benefited from 220 parcels of toys, food and gifts delivered by volunteers during the week before Christmas. Stores in the area supported the appeal by acting as collection points for gifts. Other businesses and schools and churches donated food and goods. A total of nearly 700 people attended three community carol services, including the mayor of Kettering, Councillor Keli Watts.

More than £2,300 was collected for the Christmas parcels as well as the corps drop-in. – T. H. 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

TUNSTALL: Together with the band and songsters, the Silent Choir, which signed to carols, inspired visitors at the community Christmas service. A collection raised £400 for dDeaflinks, the charity chosen by the corps. – C. V.

A full quartet of singers completes Southend Citadel’s unique Advent countdown; an extra singer joined the ensemble each week as the candles were lit

Ayr Community Gospel Choir, supported by Paisley Community Band, Newton Primary School choir and guests, raise £3,350 for Ayr Rotary projects at the town hall Christmas concert; they also raised £680 at Buchanan Galleries for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity

CHELMSFORD: Nearly 200 people gathered for a Christmas concert that featured Kerry Sampson as well as the band and songsters.

The audience delighted in listening to Kerry, whose songs included ‘Breath Of Heaven (Mary’s Song)’. Iain Sturgeon (clarinet), accompanied by his wife, Lynette, presented an unusual arrangement of ‘Ding Dong! Merrily On High’. The event raised almost £1,500 for the work of the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. – I. S.

Charity Shop Manager Sally Sturman receives a certificate for the Christmas display in Snettisham Corps charity shop; it was ‘highly commended’ in Hunstanton's window display competition

LEIGH-ON-SEA: This year’s YP carol service took place during the morning meeting. In addition to the Sunday school and Frogs, the recently formed Jam club took part alongside some instrumental learners, puppeteers and Father Christmas. The senior carol service included an invitation for non-Salvationists to take part in a community choir. – P. J.

STAINES: A new feature for Christmas was a life-sized manger scene erected in front of the hall. It proved a talking point for the community and, on a few occasions, some characters went missing to be found in nearby gardens. Fortunately, the residents were pleased to return them. – M. J. Salvationist 25 January 2020

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NEWS

THORNDALE FAMILY CENTRE: The centre received a generous donation of toiletries and gifts from Lurgan Corps. Members of Lurgan youth fellowship, led by Amelia Chapman, brought the donations and launched the centre’s first Messy Church. More than 20 children enjoyed crafts and sang enthusiastically. This gave opportunities to build links within the division. – B. M. Stapleford family carol service raised £1,300 for Salvation Army safe houses in Nottinghamshire, which support survivors of human trafficking

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HOVE: The band visited BBC Radio Sussex to play live on Sunday Breakfast With Emily Jeffery. In addition to playing some of the presenter’s favourite carols, the band members discussed their many years of carolling and talked about corps involvement in delivering food parcels and gifts to local families. – M. H.

BOURNE: While the community band carolled in a nearby supermarket, the Bourne Tuneless Choir – who are anything but tuneless – sang carols in the town shopping precinct, raising £320 for the Christmas community fund. They sang for two hours, enjoyed every minute and offered to do it again. – C. G.

Lockerbie corps officer Captain Andrina Downie thanks Norman and Moira Macdonald for helping to run the Christmas lunch for the past 15 years

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LYMINGTON: Boscombe Singing Company were guests at the carol service and presented songs and a timbrel item. Many of the capacity congregation were attending for the first time, and the offering collected more than £400. Combined with the Saturday carolling donations, this brought the total funds raised to £2,000 for the Big Collection and the Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Unit. – R. B.

For the 27th time, Whitby provides a Christmas Day meal for people who would otherwise be lonely

Bath Citadel Band plays carols at Royal United Hospital

LEEDS CENTRAL: The toy appeal received an outstanding response from the public and businesses in the area, with donations of toys for about nine hundred and eighty children, gifts for about one hundred and fifty mothers and two hundred food vouchers. Leeds General Infirmary and HMP Leeds visitors centre also received toys. It took five days to sort through the donations. – M. B.

Harlow Band concludes carolling by playing ‘Jingle Bells’ while riding a merry-go-round

KING’S LYNN: Snettisham Band provided music for the borough council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk’s carol service. The service took place at Mintlyn Crematorium and included time for those who had lost loved ones during the year to reflect. The ecumenical service included representatives from other churches and the mayor, Councillor Geoff Hipperson. – A. K.

SNETTISHAM: The corps held a Christmas tree festival for the third year running. Village groups and businesses decorated trees and visitors donated to the charities each group collected for. Visitors also voted for their favourite tree and the winner was revealed at the carol service.

Pictured is the winning tree, decorated by Pauline Drewery, who collected donations for The Salvation Army. – A. K.

BRISTOL EASTON: The band visited Southmead Hospital on Christmas Day for the 100th consecutive year to play carols to patients, visitors and staff.

Martyn Bryant (cornet) was on duty for the 60th year in a row. The band hopes to continue this ministry for many more years to come. – M. G. Salvationist 25 January 2020

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NEWS

SOUTHEND CITADEL: The tenth annual Citadel Gospel Choir’s Christmas concert raised more than £1,000 to provide resources for two-year-old Albert, who is living with bilateral anophthalmia. Codetta Brass supported the choir, presenting a wide range of interesting pieces to the 300-strong audience. The occasion was further enhanced by an encouraging video message from the choir’s founder, Lieutenant John Mitchinson (Kirkwall). – J. T.

FARNWORTH: One hundred and forty-eight people filled St Gregory’s Social Club for the community carol service. The Singing by Heart group, made up of people living with dementia and their carers, enthusiastically sang carols and Christmas songs. A band was formed for the occasion from people linked to the corps; they played ‘Mid-Winter’ and accompanied carols. A total of £215 was raised for the Big Collection. – P. W. RIPLEY: After being approached by a nearby JD Wetherspoon pub, the corps set up a food collection point in support of the community. One hundred and fifty food and toy parcels were given out over the Christmas period with support from nearby churches, businesses, the council, the library and townsfolk. Pictured are Corps Treasurer Ian Brown and duty manager Siobhan Pearcy. – I. B.

Shoeburyness Band plays traditional and contemporary carols to children and parents at Friars Primary School (above) and Greenways Primary School (below)

SHOEBURYNESS: The corps hosted the S Stibbards and Sons remembrance service for members of the community who had lost someone.

Corps officers Captains Clare and Rob Davis are pictured with representatives from the funeral directory and CSM John Wilcockson. – R. D. 8

Salvationist 25 January 2020

RESOURCES I Youth and children’s grants

Investing in the next generation Youth Specialist for Leader Development Matt Perkins (THQ) highlights the grants available for youth and children’s ministries

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HE Youth and Children’s Ministries team is committed to developing youth and children’s work, and to equipping its leaders to fulfil their roles effectively. One way we hope to achieve this is through financial support. We have updated and relaunched our grants scheme, which we hope will be used across the territory.

The grants scheme exists to provide: Support for volunteer youth and children’s leaders in developing themselves by attending training courses, conferences and accredited courses, and in attaining relevant professional qualifications

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Resources, such as teaching materials and equipment, for volunteer children’s and youth leaders and the projects they run

BIRMINGHAM ASTON: MUSIC WORKSHOPS Aston have been running music production workshops for young people for a few years now, writes corps youth worker Karac Baldwick. The programme offers young people nationally accredited qualifications through the Arts Award.

They wanted to expand the art forms they offer to young people and the outreach fund helped them. With the fund they purchased professional drawing tablets and creative software to teach young people digital art, illustration, graphic design, animation, and comic book, manga and graphic novel creation – and to offer qualifications in all these subjects.

With budget cuts to schools and equipment, and software being unaffordable for most of the families they work with, the workshops have introduced young people to art forms they wouldn’t have had access to otherwise. They have been given the opportunity to build skills in areas that can lead to a positive future and career. The young people love it.

TRANSFORMERS: HANNAH DAVIS As part of the Bishop’s Stortford Region Transformers programme, Hannah (Chelmsford) came up with the bold notion of throwing herself out of a perfectly good aeroplane, reports Divisional Youth Specialist Ben Still. Why, you may ask? Well, the Transformers were tasked with raising money to support the work of The Salvation Army in Estonia. As such they had planned a variety of activities to raise funds, from bake sales and curry nights to concerts and even skydiving.

After coming up with this bright idea, Hannah applied to the Young People’s Participation Fund to cover the cost of the jump. This enabled her to do it and raise more than £400. Well done, Hannah!

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Initial investment for starting up a new outreach activity for young people in the community, such as a children’s or youth club

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Support for young people aged 5 to 25 in leading or participating in a local project

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On the right are four stories showing how young people and their workers have benefited from the grants scheme.

For grant guidelines and application forms contact your divisional youth specialist or regional children’s specialist. Forms can be downloaded by corps officers from OurHub. For more information email youthchildren@ salvationarmy.org.uk

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FALMOUTH TEMPLE: AFTERSCHOOL CLUB The corps received a grant that helped them buy some much-needed craft resources for their weekly after-school club, writes Regional Children’s Specialist Richard Prescott.

Community Outreach Leader Clair Allen reports that the children have recently enjoyed working with some new Christian stickers and making crafts that help them explore God’s promises. The club takes place every Wednesday at the Salvation Army hall, where the children sing, play lots of lively games, share stories and eat tasty snacks together.

ALDERNEY: JAM CLUB Alderney received a children’s grant to help buy resources for their weekly Jam club, reports Richard Prescott. The club takes place every Monday afternoon in the only primary school on the island.

The grant has also helped Alderney develop their children’s work with the launch of a new Messy Church. This new monthly event takes place in the Salvation Army hall in place of Sunday morning worship. In September the corps welcomed six children along with their parents.

The second Messy Church, which took place at the end of October, welcomed 19 children and 14 adults. God is good!

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FEATURE I The All Terrain Podcast

Putting faith in pod

Alexander John Shaia with Phil Ball

Deputy Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Phil Ball introduces a new Salvation Army podcast featuring conversations about life and faith 10

Salvationist 25 January 2020

‘W

E should do a podcast.’

Those five words, spoken over a coffee in the summer of 2019, led to us launching a new podcast last September.

The All Terrain Podcast is a monthly release from the Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit that invites special guests to share some of

their life stories and the wisdom they’ve picked up along the way.

Since sharing our first episode, The All Terrain Podcast has been in the Top 10 in the ‘Christianity’ chart and No 25 in the ‘Religion and Spirituality’ chart on Apple Podcasts.

WHAT IS A PODCAST? A podcast is a recording about a

particular topic or issue that is made available online for people to download or stream on their computer, tablet or smartphone. According to Ofcom, about seven million people in the UK now listen to podcasts each week. There is something for everyone, including politics, sport, religion, spirituality, comedy and even sewing. Ofcom’s research found that half of listeners have joined the podcast wave in the past two years, with the average, regular podcast user listening to about seven podcasts a week.

WHAT’S ALL TERRAIN ALL ABOUT? In each episode a guest joins our host, Matt White, for a hypothetical hike as they face four choices and answer four questions.

The four choices are: Where are we walking? Who’s coming with us?

(Guests can pick one living, one dead and one fictional person.) What’s on the playlist? What’s in the snack bag?

The four questions are: How do you face change? How do you move through suffering? How do you receive joy? How do you mature in service?

The questions were inspired by Alexander John Shaia’s book Heart And Mind: The Four-Gospel Journey For Radical Transformation. Alexander John proposes that the way of Jesus followed by the Early Church encompasses four paths – or Gospel texts – and that the four Gospels are not simply about Jesus but about Jesus speaking to us about the journey we are on. Each Gospel can be read as answering those four specific questions: Matthew deals with change, Mark with suffering, John with joy and Luke with service.

As part of our work we encounter numerous young adults who find themselves in some way asking those questions as they try to navigate life and faith to find their place in the world and how they should serve.

It’s not just young people. We have met many older people who are still faithfully serving children and young people and are also trying to negotiate those questions themselves.

WHO ARE THE GUESTS? In the introductory episode, I explain the heart of this new series, as well as unpack some of the ideas behind the four questions and Alexander John’s work.

Matt White interviews Alexander Another episode features Mike Horne, who has enjoyed a 25-year career in marketing and brand development. He is one of the founding partners of Asha, an award-winning creative consultancy. Mike shared some of his personal journey through life and faith.

Other guests have included Chine McDonald, who works with Christian Aid, and Secretary for Mission LieutColonel Drew McCombe.

We were recently delighted to welcome Alexander John himself. He shared deeply about his own life and how the Gospel journey through the four questions has become the core of his own Christian faith. It was a fascinating chat, so keep an eye out for that episode early this year – although, after two hours of recording, it might need to be more than one episode!

WHY A PODCAST? The Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit are passionate about raising leaders and young people who are disciples of Jesus in the tradition of social change and justice. One of the ways in which we help this vision become a reality is by creating relevant discipleship resources that equip and enable the formation of faith and character, and can empower them.

The All Terrain Podcast enables us to do just that, as it helps create meaningful conversations about life and faith. It also enables people to hear the stories and wisdom of others in the wider Church, listening for significant personal moments and wondering how God may be leading them as they move through their journey of discipleship.

The four questions and four Gospels help provide a luminous path that leads to greater wisdom, compassion, service,

love and transformation rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

We hope that The All Terrain Podcast will help amplify The Salvation Army’s voice in a way that magnifies the calling and relevance of the Army to a wider world and a broader audience that is listening.

Major Kerry Coke (Raynes Park) is one such listener. ‘It’s great!’ she enthuses. ‘I’ve forwarded the link to our youth team and hope they will join me in using it.’

‘We have received some really positive feedback since its launch in September,’ says Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Major Helen Schofield. ‘We would like to encourage everyone to listen, share, rate and review The All Terrain Podcast. It is amazing to see The Salvation Army being a voice and presence in this space.’

Series 1 of The All Terrain Podcast is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Podbean with new episodes released on the last Friday of every month

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IN THE

ZONE France and Belgium Territory

Building on a firm foundation

How well do you know The Salvation Army’s Europe Zone? This month we give an overview of the France and Belgium Territory

S

INCE La Maréchale (the eldest daughter of William and Catherine Booth) conducted The Salvation Army’s first meeting in Paris in 1881, Salvationist influence has grown, and remarkable social and spiritual results have been achieved. Adjutant and Mrs Charles Rankin and Captains Valleema and Hass pioneered operations in Belgium in 1889.

Most of the work in Belgium operates within the Francophone part of the country so, from January 2009, the former Belgium Command became a region linked administratively to France under the newly created France and Belgium Territory.

The territorial leaders are Colonels Daniel and Eliane Naud.

Armée du Salut, France

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Salvationist 25 January 2020

Children at Nice Corps

‘

The challenge lies in maintaining this diversity across all corps

’

FRANCE Today, The Salvation Army in France has developed into two strands, known as the Congregation (corps) and the Foundation (social services).

Almost all the Foundation’s social centres are covered by some sort of spiritual support, with Salvationists and other Christian believers providing care and a listening ear to service users.

Recent Foundation projects include work with migrants and people experiencing homelessness. In 2018 it launched The Night of Philanthropy, the Army’s first annual charity event in the country.

While the Foundation supports those in need on a national scale, the Congregation provides spiritual and psychological aid in local situations. This includes food, clothing and personal hygiene aid as well as administrative services such as social advice, translation and financial assistance.

Corps are open seven days a week with outreach activities for people who do not usually attend church. These include celebrations, home league

THE TERRITORY AT A GLANCE

Simply Organized

Simply Organized

1,161 Soldiers 246 Adherent Members 201 Junior Soldiers 36 Corps 4 Outposts 169 Officers (63 active, 106 retired)

3 Envoys 5 Cadets 2,440 Employees

Home league rally, Belgium

enrol new families into corps. While young people now tend to share their faith through social networks, the summer camps continue to gather between 100 and 150 young people each year. Today, several officers testify to discovering their calling while attending these camps.

Philippe Clément admitted to Order of the Founder by Commissioner Johnny Kleman

meetings and other social activities. This witness will often have shared Scripture and works alongside Sunday worship, Bible studies and music rehearsals.

One of the driving forces behind the Army’s dynamism in the country is the presence of African Salvationists. Most Parisian corps are home to Salvationists from Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Their settlement in cities such as Chartres and Rennes is also leading to the creation of new outposts. The challenge lies in maintaining this diversity across all corps.

In 2019 the territory celebrated a century of Salvation Army scouting in France – known as Torchbearers since 1941 – and the 90th anniversary of scouting in Belgium. These celebrations included the admittance of Philippe Clément, national scout leader of The Salvation Army in France and Belgium, into the Order of the Founder for his contributions to the social and spiritual development of the territory’s young people.

Torchbearers has flourished in recent years, proving to be a good way to connect with children and teenagers and

BELGIUM The Army in Belgium is going through a period of reflection and necessary change, looking at how it can not only survive in the 21st century but also show sustainable development writes regional officer Major Mike Stannett.

One hundred and thirty years of faithfulness need to be built upon and, in some cases, replanted so that new openings are possible. Where previous generations served and ministered to small industrial communities, these centres are no longer viable. Yet when one place closes, it provides resources for a new plant in another city.

The Belgium Army is working in ten cities. On a material level, many of the corps and social centres are in a poor condition, but plans and investments are being made to make them suitable for purpose and inspiring to be in.

Liège Corps was replanted to a modern, purpose-built location with a nine-metre-high white cross – which can be viewed from every floor – in the heart of the building and a dedicated team of soldiers and volunteers providing community services alongside the growing congregation.

As a reflection of the times, Brussels II Corps is dedicated to providing a spiritual home for many African families

who have migrated to Belgium and added richness to the fellowship.

The social services also face the need to embrace change. Homelessness shelters are moving away from dormitory-style accommodation, and Housing First principles are being considered.

Brussels is home to a centre for refugees, which has now been active for 30 years. It is looking into contractual agreements to subcontract some services, such as language lessons and cultural inclusion, to corps.

Other social centres include the only dedicated debt-counselling centre in Brussels, which has several hundred referrals, and a family aid centre, which serves 2,000 people weekly with support and food parcels.

For political reasons, corps are not allowed to use staff or resources paid for by the municipal authorities to help undocumented migrants experiencing homelessness. So, while there are not enough able-bodied helpers in Brussels Central Corps to respond to the acute needs of today, they have partnered Serve the City Brussels, which provides volunteers to help in practical ways.

Brussels Regional Headquarters also houses the Army’s European Affairs Office, which represents The Salvation Army at an EU level. The office’s primary focus is making a difference around the issues of human trafficking, Roma communities, refugees, migration and poverty.

Although the world and the Army change, people and their need for acceptance, dignity and the knowledge of God’s love remains the same.

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A QUESTION OF SPORT

H

OW many readers of this column watch Songs Of Praise, a venerable act of worship and witness that has been running on BBC One since the early days of television?

First broadcast in peak time at the traditional hour of evening service, it has been pushed ever forward in the Sunday afternoon schedule, thus making room for non-stop sport – which, along with the NHS, could perhaps be described as the national religion.

The downgrading of Songs Of Praise takes us back to New Testament times because organised sport was big business in the 1st century and offered no protected slot to Christians. We can learn a lot about it from the letters of Paul, who mentions four, maybe five sporting activities – some of which were nasty indeed.

‘Man against beast’ could be a crowd-puller, reminding Paul of his own worst experiences. ‘If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained?’

(1 Corinthians 15:32). It’s likely that the ‘beasts’ are human: the apostle might be thinking of the city’s great riot recorded in Acts 19:23–41.

Exasperated by his troublesome flock at Corinth, Paul seems to compare himself to a gladiator, fighting to the death before a roaring crowd: ‘It seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena’ (1 Corinthians 4:9). But he keeps his temper, adding: ‘I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children’ (v14).

When it comes to boxing, the great apostle seems to take a more positive view, even though competitors often wore studded gloves. ‘I do not fight like 14

Salvationist 25 January 2020

a boxer beating the air,’ he declares.

‘No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave’ (1 Corinthians 9:26 and 27).

This suggests that Paul liked to keep fit – but how did he do it? Could he have been a runner in his younger days? Paul certainly commends the commitment of athletes as an example to Christians, although he would never have approved of naked competitors and dedicatory pagan sacrifices.

‘Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training’ (1 Corinthians 9:25), he says, after reminding them that ‘only one gets the prize’ (v24). There were no silver or bronze medals in the ancient Olympics and, in the Isthmian Games, held not far from Corinth, the winners would be awarded a simple wreath of fading celery. ‘They do it to get a crown that will not last,’ adds Paul, ‘but we do it to get a crown that will last for ever’ (v25).

Which brings us, perhaps, to chariot racing, the ancient equivalent of Formula One, in which the risks were enormous and the top drivers were big names. Scorpus, a near-contemporary of Paul, won 2,048 races but died while competing at the age of 26. Among his fans was the poet Martial, who called Scorpus ‘the pride of the noisy circus, the darling of Rome’ and wrote: ‘Why did the finish line of the race… become the finish of your life?’

Paul could well be thinking of that dangerous track, still to be seen in Rome, with its long straight, sharp turn and acceleration to the finish, when he writes: ‘Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 3:13 and 14).

Thinkalou d b y John Coutts

We won’t find a detailed theology of sport in the New Testament, the writers of which likely found the ‘noisy circus’ and its speeding chariots a distraction.

This led the Puritans of the 17th century to look with suspicion on all forms of non-religious pastimes – not realising that recreation should be a form of re-creation, a necessary part of the Christian’s walk with God. Professional sport was seen as worldly amusement, which is why, not so long ago, a Salvation Army bandsman could be suspended for attending a Saturday football match.

For Paul, our guide in matters of sport (as in everything else) should be the mind of Christ, and the letter to the Hebrews challenges us to ‘run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith’ (12:1 and 2).

Sport has its valid place but Christian worship, witness and service must come first. That makes sense to me. But nowadays, like Songs Of Praise, our faith no longer enjoys a protected Lord’s Day slot. How do I present its claims to a teenager who finds Sunday morning football a lot more attractive than Sunday morning church? Your suggestions, please, to the letters page.

JOHN IS A SOLDIER AT STIRLING CORPS

REVIEW

Discipleship insights for all generations Major Iain Hudson (Bromley Temple) reviews Twelve Ordinary Men: Trained And Transformed

By Jesus by David Vandebeulque

I

T is a delight to read and take in some inspirational thinking from Twelve Ordinary Men, the newly translated book by French officer Major David Vandebeulque. General John Gowans wrote in his foreword to the original edition: ‘This study reminds us of our predecessors’ humanity... the enormous diversity in the disciples’ personalities.’

As we read the Gospels, we realise it is true that Jesus took hold of these diverse personalities and managed, transformed, valued and used their particular abilities to grow his Church.

The author reminds us that, as successors to those first disciples, we

too must rejoice in the wonderful diversity of our talents and abilities.

Taking a chapter to focus on each of the 12 disciples, David offers new insights into these men’s personalities and characters. Helpfully, each chapter title gives the reader a clue to that focus.

For example, there is Andrew, the self-effacing one; John, the possessive one; Peter, the stubborn, impulsive one; and Bartholomew, the thoughtful one.

Throughout the book we can gauge the author’s passion for sharing the gospel. As Scripture is offered relating to each disciple, the narrative is by its nature evangelistic. It is easy to see traits in these ordinary men and recognise them in ourselves or others.

What is appealing is the invitation to apply these insights in a 21st-century

context. At the end of every chapter is an imaginary letter to the disciple in question, as if they were living today.

There are also helpful and challenging questions for further personal reflection or discussion.

The book is an ideal resource for small groups or even a planned sermon series in a corps setting.

Thankfully, International Headquarters have readily made this publication available to a wider English-speaking readership through the translation by Major Bramwell Williams. I heartily recommend it to disciples of all generations.

O Twelve

Ordinary Men is available from SP&S priced £8.99 (plus postage and packing) or as an ebook from amazon. co.uk

PREVIEW

Poems to comfort and inspire Introducing the audio download Contentment

by Commissioner Keith Banks

C

OMMISSIONER Keith Banks has read his poetry aloud for a new audio download titled Contentment. The author, who recently served in retirement as chaplain at Glasgow airport, has crafted verse that is accessible and meaningful. Many of the poems feature complementary music arranged or composed by Gary Rose (IHQ Communications).

From verse reflecting on loss and personal circumstances to everyday observations, the poet’s voice conveys aspects of his own faith journey that he hopes will help others encountering similar ups and downs.

Commissioner Keith says: ‘This collection of my poems under the title Contentment has been written over a

number of years. Those poems of a devotional nature emerge from my own spiritual quest and God’s presence in my life, while others relate to some deeply tender experiences. There are some lighter insights too!

‘If anything I have written brings comfort, encouragement or contentment to anyone who listens, then this production serves its purpose. Gary Rose has used his skills as a musician to greatly enhance what I have done, and I am deeply grateful to him. I am also indebted to Lieut-Colonel Lucille Turfrey (Australia Territory) for the illustrations that gave the original printed version so much appeal.’

Gary adds: ‘The emotion in Keith’s writing and in his vocalisation was tangible, making it easier to match the mood of each track. It was such a pleasure to work on this project – I received so many blessings putting the music together.

‘I think the poem that touched me

most was “Over There”, written in memory of his wife, Pauline. It’s clear that there is rich meaning in the words, and I’ve tried to authentically capture the phrase “over there” in the articulation of the first phrase of music.

‘Also, “Risen Glory”. Keith wanted this to build and build, so hopefully it takes the listener to a place of excitement as they consider – as the poem conveys – “the glory of the Christ to be adored”, before the final, exalting “Hallelujah!”’

O The

audio collection, priced £9.99, is available to download at spstunes. com. A free sample track, inspired by Psalm 23, is available on Soundcloud at sar.my/bankspsalm23 Salvationist 25 January 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

Paul’s obedience Major Denis Lomax explores how the Holy Spirit directed Paul to a new area of mission STUDY PASSAGE: ACTS 16:6–10

O

UR study passage marks a change of physical direction for Paul, but a continuation of purpose, as Christianity spreads into areas hitherto untouched by the gospel.

Paul’s plan was to visit and strengthen the churches he had planted during his first missionary journey in the Asian province of Galatia (see Acts 15:36).

After that, he planned to head west, taking the gospel to unchurched territory.

However, Paul and his companions were ‘kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia’ (v6).

It is not known exactly what caused Paul and his team to shift their plans, but somehow the Spirit made it plain that they were not to go to the southwest portion of Asia Minor. Next, they tried heading north to Bithynia, a province located on the southern coast

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

by Major Philippa Smale

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Salvationist 25 January 2020

of the Black Sea, but again they were prevented: ‘When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to’ (v7).

QUESTIONS O Do you feel it would have been easy for Paul to follow this prompt? Why or why not?

O How might Paul have rationalised this as not being from the Lord?

Paul was in possession of a clear, logical mind so, to him, it must have seemed that he was barred from this Roman province of Asia by the Holy Spirit. Ephesus and all the recipients of the letters to the seven churches in the book of Revelation were situated in this region. It was an area ripe for gospel expansion.

We are not told exactly how Paul received this prompt. It could have been

through the word of a prophet, a vision, or a clear and inescapable conviction.

QUESTIONS O How do we recognise the Holy Spirit’s prompts?

O Can you remember a time when you have unmistakably heard God’s voice?

O What was it about that time, experience or moment that was conducive to hearing it so clearly?

There is no indication that Paul was anything other than immediately obedient to the Spirit’s prompts: ‘So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas’ (v8). Was this prompting and prohibition a matter of direction, timing or both?

QUESTIONS What makes it easy or difficult for us to respond to the Holy Spirit’s prompts?

O Do we distinguish between ‘yes’, ‘no’ O

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

We thank you, Holy Spirit, for gifts of many kinds,/ New life and love and power that changes hearts and minds;/ We praise you for the comfort and strength you bring each day,/ As one who stands beside us and helps us as we pray.

(SASB 48)

Paul and his companions travelled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.

(Acts 16:6)

Come, Holy Spirit, thy guidance we crave;/ Speak out thy will we pray;/ We would be sensitive to thy control;/ Speak to our hearts today./ Speak to our hearts today, / Speak to our hearts today,/ Rekindle the glow and the glory bestow,/ Speak to our hearts today.

(SASB 318)

and ‘not yet’ as we seek to obey God’s voice?

Sometimes we face an issue where the answer between these options is difficult to resolve. Then we must remain persistent in praying that the Spirit will bring clarity to the situation.

We read that: ‘During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us”’ (v9).

It was this vision of a man from Macedonia that finally gave Paul his guidance. Who was the man Paul saw in the vision? If he was an actual person and not a vision, some think it was Luke, for Luke may have been Macedonian.

Once Paul understands, he is quick to obey: ‘After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them’ (v10).

Luke, the author of Acts, does not often intrude into the text. However, here we see the first of the celebrated ‘we’ passages, where the story is told in the first person as opposed to the third person. This change indicates that Luke was an eyewitness participant in these unfolding events.

Paul responded to the vision and proceeded to Macedonia, the northern and central part of modern Greece.

Much happened in Macedonia, including conversions and deliverance from demonic possession, Paul and Silas’s imprisonment and the planting of churches in Philippi, Thessalonica and Corinth. Up to this point in time, the gospel’s reach had been limited to Asia.

Many historians credit Paul’s heeding of the Macedonian call with the spread of Christianity into Europe and therefore the western world.

Unlike Paul, we have the benefit of unfolding Scripture to gauge the

rightness of his obedience to the Macedonian call.

QUESTIONS O Do changes of direction bring a sense of excitement and anticipation, or do you feel more comfortable with the familiar?

O Do you sense God revealing a ‘Macedonia’ in your context?

O What would it take for you, your small group or your corps to make an impact?

O What first steps could or should you take?

MAJOR LOMAX IS DIVISIONAL COMMANDER, NORTH SCOTLAND

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’

(Acts 16:9)

Right here in this place the Spirit is moving,/ Right here in this place as the prophet said it would be;/ Right here in this place there’s a mighty revelation/ Of the glory of the Lord,/ As the waters cover the sea.

(SASB 315)

After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.

(Acts 16:10)

We have a gospel that matches the hour,/ We have discovered the true source of power,/ Man is a weakling, but he can be strong,/ Choosing the right and refusing the wrong./ Man has no meaning, no purpose, no soul,/ Till he discovers that God is his goal./ This is the gospel that claims all our powers,/ This is good news for this age of ours.

(SASB 904)

Prayer Thank you, Lord, that we have a glorious gospel to share with the world. Thank you, too, that we have the Holy Spirit, who prepares the way for us and then guides us in the direction he wants us to go.

Salvationist 25 January 2020

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NEW COMMITMENTS

MERTHYR TYDFIL: It was an evening of celebration when Carol Davies, Sally-Ann Woodley, Joyce Morgan and William Cross were welcomed as adherent members. All from Army beginnings but having not attended for many years, they testified, supported by family and friends, that they now felt the time was right to make a commitment.

Joyce, Carol and William then played ‘Follow, I Will Follow Thee’ with the fellowship band. All four are pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Lynne Brill, flag bearer Bandsman Robert Davies and corps officers Majors Lynne and Nigel Collins. – L. B.

CLOWNE: Corps officer Major Elaine Holder welcomed Lydia Rock as an adherent member. Lydia spoke of the love and friendship she had received from the corps. She shared that she was in a dark place, operating in her own strength before returning to God, renewing her faith and putting her trust in him. Also pictured is Major Mark Holder. – G. H.

HECKMONDWIKE: Hannah Ellis was enrolled as a soldier and Kieren Ellis and Sean Steberis were welcomed as adherent members.

In seeking a church, they linked up with the corps and soon became a part of the church family. They testified that God’s love and grace had saved them. Their love for Jesus was evident as they sang and shared heartfelt testimonies. Sean, Kieren and Hannah are pictured with Major Ray Mackereth and corps officer Lieutenant Yong-Geun Lee. – H. L.

ARMÁDA SPÁSY CHATHAM: Patricia Mosorova and Dezider Zdenek were welcomed as adherent members by Major David Blowers, bringing the total number of new members who joined the fellowship last year to 12. Dezider is new to faith, while Patricia has renewed her relationship with God and found her spiritual home at the corps. They both testified to God’s transforming power in their lives. – K. B.

ARMÁDA SPÁSY GRAVESEND: Timea Bunda and Rajmond Jano were welcomed as adherent members by Fresh Expressions Pioneer Leader David Frater. Timea testified to God leading her life. Having heard about God through a Christian who travelled to Gravesend to share the gospel, Timea and Rajmond were introduced to David, who visited and encouraged them. After the death of Timea’s father, the family were shaken and without a church fellowship. When their local church closed down, Timea began praying and seeking God, and it was confirmed in a dream that the Army was the place for her family to be. Timea and Rajmond began to attend regularly. They were pleased to join other family members who have already made a commitment.

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Salvationist 25 January 2020

Three soldiers were enrolled by corps officer Major David Blowers and David Frater. Alexandra Makulova and Erik Makula testified to God’s calling on their lives and Alexandra read from Psalm 23 as she spoke of God leading and speaking to her. Nikolas Bunda testified to God calling him to this step of commitment. – K. B.

LETTERS

SPOT THE BRIT! I WRITE with reference to the news article ‘World leaders celebrate new service and long service’ in Salvationist (4 January) about the recent visit of the General to New Zealand.

In the accompanying photo, eagle-eyed readers may have noticed a Brit among the six newly commissioned officers. Our son, Jonathan, is on the far left, next to our New Zealander daughterin-law, Charlene. Until 2017 they were worshipping at Rayleigh in the UK. Before that Jonathan soldiered at Reading Central and Downham Market.

Carol and Martin Whybrow Majors Wickford

ONE LAST TIME

PRAYERS ON A TRAIN

THORNABY Corps has a small band of seven players, but carried out a full carolling programme in December.

During this time the band visited numerous care homes in the area. Two days before Christmas, a week after visiting one of these homes, the band was playing at a nearby Tesco.

A family with two young girls stood nearby and sang along with the carols.

One of the girls, aged about five, knew all the words and sang with much gusto. I asked if they had any favourites and the girl asked for the usual ones of ‘Away In A Manger’ and ‘Silent Night’. She then asked for ‘Jingle Bells’. I gave her a set of bells but, before we started, the mother told the family not to move as she was going to the cash machine. The band played the tune and the mother returned and handed over a £20 note.

The mother told us that we had played in the care home where her grandmother resided the previous week.

She went on to say her grandmother had been a sunbeam and had been brought up in the Army and that the last thing her grandmother heard was an Army band playing carols. The next day the grandmother died suddenly at the home.

She couldn’t thank us enough for our ministry during the Christmas season and said her grandmother would have wanted us to have the donation.

I’m sure God granted this lady her final wish to hear an Army band play one last time.

David Helm Thornaby-on-Tees

THANK you for the interesting article regarding Hadleigh Farm Colony by General John Larsson (Retired) in Salvationist (4 January). Wanting to expand his plan regarding the development of the Colonies, General William Booth invited Cecil Rhodes to Hadleigh Farm Colony, where Rhodes was immensely impressed.

Harold Begbie’s authorised biography of the Founder says that William and Cecil had a serious discussion on the train back to London. William, ever an evangelist, gave this recollection of their talk.

He had asked: ‘How is it with your soul?’ Cecil responded: ‘It’s not quite so well with my soul as I could wish.’ ‘Do you pray?’ questioned William. ‘Sometimes; not quite so often as I should,’ Cecil replied. ‘Will you let me pray with you – now?’ asked William. Cecil agreed and they knelt down in the coach. William asked God to guide Cecil and save his soul.

When Cecil died in 1902 at the age of 48, William Booth wrote in his diary: ‘I wonder whether in our several interviews I did what I could for his soul?’

Gilbert Ellis Lieut-Colonel Oslo

RHYTHM AND REMINISCING I WRITE in response to Stephen Bradley’s letter in Salvationist (14 December), asking what happened to the Salvation Army groups of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.

We were going to call ourselves ‘One Direction’ but, after much deliberation, decided on ‘One Way’. Our four rhythm group members were Martin Steady (lead guitar/vocals), Jeff Steady (bass guitar/vocals), Kelvin Hare (drums) and me (vocals). We led a few corps meetings in our division, a beach meeting at Barry Island, visited Malvern and Maldon Corps and I recall a divisional Good Friday meeting where we sang ‘There Is A Green Hill Far Away’ to the tune for ‘House Of The Rising Sun’. Most of our songs were inspired by the Joystrings, but we also sang our own original songs, written and composed by Martin and Jeff.

We disbanded when I went off to the International Training College in 1968, Martin went to another church, Jeff went to the college at a later date and Kelvin left for America.

In those days rhythm groups were up against traditional brass band music and some discouraged rather than encouraged this ministry, but it was a ministry that drew people into the Kingdom.

Robert Davies Major Newcastle upon Tyne Salvationist 25 January 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 1 January O Territorial Envoy Alexander Reynolds, associate officer, Stirling, to be corps officer (effective 5 March) Effective 23 January O Captain Karen Symonds, Cwm Effective 5 March O Divisional Envoys Denise and William McMurray, Falkirk LOCAL OFFICER APPOINTED O BM Marc Willetts, Staple Hill DEDICATED TO GOD O Mia April, daughter of Gordon Changata and Mona-Lisa Mpofu, at Prescot by Major Bryn Hargreaves O Oliver Owen George, son of Lieutenants Dominic and Elizabeth Nicoll (USA Eastern), at Boston by Majors Gerald and Jayne Nicoll RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Mrs Colonel Jean Gauntlett (90 on 4 February) O Major Brian Johnson (80 on 7 February) O Major Brenda Hunt (95 on 8 February)

BEREAVED Major Sandra Battle, Rayleigh, and Bandsman Carl Cracknell, Felixstowe, of their mother Janet Cracknell, Major Doug Askew and Rtd BM John Askew, Ipswich Citadel, of their sister O Olive Kneebone, Redruth, of her husband Douglas O Valerie Barrett, Clowne, of her husband Philip O Lieut-Colonel Barbara Sharp of her husband Lieut-Colonel Cedric Sharp O Major Connie High of her husband Major Malcolm High, Mandie Leighton of her father O Val Martin, Boston, of her daughter Kirsty O’Connor O

PROMOTED TO GLORY O Ivor Burgoyne, Redruth O Major Freda Woodward from Little Holland Hall care home, Holland-onSea, on 6 January O Lieut-Colonel Cedric Sharp from Sunderland Royal Hospital on 6 January O Major Malcolm High from Haywood Hospital, Stoke-on-Trent, on 6 January O Major Betty Drake from Conquest Hospital, Hastings, on 7 January O S/Reservist Grace Atherton, Rochdale O Chris Claridge, Staple Hill O Faith Barton, Brighton Congress Hall

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O India Northern Territory, Mon 20 Jan – Sun 26 O India Western Territory, Mon 27 – Mon 3 Feb O ICO, Th 13 O ICO, Sun 16 O Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory, Mon 17 – Tu 25 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O Korea Territory (installation of territorial leaders), Th 6 Feb – Sun 9 O Brazil Territory (welcome to cadets), Th 13 – Mon 17 O ICO (farewell to session), Fri 21 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Clitheroe, Sat 25 Jan O Anglia Division, Th Fr 31 O WBC (public welcome to the principal), Sun 2 Feb O WBC (first year cadets teaching module), Tu 4* O Aberdeen (Scotland Council), Th 6 O Basingstoke, Sat Sun 9 O Poole (Youth Makes Music festival), Fri 21 O Poole, Sat Sun 23 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES O Swanwick (prayer gathering weekend), Fri 24 Jan – Sun 26 O WBC (public welcome to the principal), Sun 2 Feb O Aberdeen (Scotland Council), Th 6 O Central East (divisional officers retreat), Mon 10 – Wed 12 O Poole (Youth Makes Music festival), Fri 21 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND O Poole, Sat Sun 23 Feb INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS O Sunderland Millfield, Sat Sun 9 Feb *Commissioner Gillian only

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Salvationist 25 January 2020

TRIBUTES MAJOR GILLIAN ANDREWS MAJOR Gillian was a lifelong Salvationist.

Born Gillian Thompson in 1955 to Salvationist parents, she was brought up with Shrewsbury as her home corps.

In 1973, while working at Gloucester House, she met Terry Andrews, whom she married in 1974 at Manchester Citadel. They became social services sergeant-majors and were appointed to Arden House, Liverpool.

In 1978 she farewelled from Coventry City with Terry and became a member of the Proclaimers of Salvation Session at the International Training College.

After commissioning Gillian was appointed to Wilmott Street Social Service Centre, Manchester. Further social service appointments at Rochdale, Warrington, Newcastle and Edinburgh followed. After an appointment at Willow House, Reading, came corps appointments at Lye, Slough and Greenford, before she retired from Ealing in 2011.

While in retirement at Felixstowe, Gillian undertook a shared visiting ministry and also helped lead monthly meetings at a local nursing home.

Gillian was a people person with a passion for serving those who needed love and support. She was an extrovert and happiest when sharing her faith with the unsaved and those in need, showing them the beauty of Christ through her actions.

Even during the last few months of her life, despite poor health, she continued to witness with an infectious smile. – D. A.

VERA FIELD, PETERSFIELD VERA was born into a Salvation Army family in 1929. They attended Petersfield, three miles from their home village of Buriton.

Vera was active within the corps from the beginning, and later became young people’s sergeant-major. This was the only local officer position that she held, but she was involved in many other

ways, including managing weekly coffee mornings, visiting pubs and raising money for the Army. Vera was enrolled as a soldier in May 1944 and became No 1 on the roll in 1984. At the 130th corps anniversary in 2016 she was commended for her long, active service

by Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams.

Vera passed away in October at the age of 90. Her life is celebrated by the many who knew her in the corps, nearby churches and other walks of life. – S. F.

ROBERT SMITH, BURTON-ONTRENT BOB was born in 1942. On leaving school he became a nurseryman, specialising in roses.

Joining The Salvation Army at Derby Temple in 1956, he became a bandsman in 1961 and served as YP band sergeant. Marriage in 1965 preceded the adoption of three children in 1988. In 1989 the family transferred to Burton-on-Trent, where Bob continued as a bandsman and in the YP corps.

He was head groundsman at Derby County FC during Brian Clough’s management, leading many advances in the profession, which led to the Institute of Groundsmanship’s Lifetime Achievement award in 2015. Later, he ran a landscaping and sports ground management company until retirement.

An encourager, Bob taught many how to play brass and also how to conduct themselves in life, becoming significant to many people; this was highlighted in tributes given at his thanksgiving service.

He is missed by his wife Eileen, his children and grandchildren. – J. R.

RICHARD CARLEY, DROITWICH SPA RICHARD was born in Wolverhampton in 1945. After gaining a degree in maths from Reading University, he made Yeovil his home.

Following a difficult period in his life, he searched for a welcoming church and found the Army. There he met Christine Mock. They married in 1980.

Having become a soldier, Richard took on the position of corps treasurer, continuing this role at Droitwich Spa after a move. His spirituality, attention to detail, honesty, integrity and ability to explain and teach the intricacies of Salvation Army finance endeared him to many. Following redundancy, Richard worked for ten years at West Midlands DHQ. The hall was packed for his funeral service. The many tributes gave testimony to this loving, kind, funny and generous man of prayer, who firmly believed that God had a plan for his life.

Richard is sorely missed by many people, not least his wife Chris, children Steve, Ben, Ruth and Woody, and granddaughters Hettie, Abbie and Poppy. – C. C.

Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. 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

Salvationist 25 January 2020

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ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 25 January 2020

22-23

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

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

LIZ MENAGH

‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future’

’

(Jeremiah 29:11)

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

Spending time with my family and relaxing in the sunshine with a good book.

Penge How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I was born into a Salvationist family. My parents, grandparents and greatgrandparents were lifelong Salvationists, so it’s in the blood.

What made you want to become a Salvationist?

It’s a great way to worship God and live out my faith. It provides good opportunities to share with others and allows special friendships to develop.

What is your day job?

I’ve worked for nearly five years at William Booth College as the Internal Courses Administrator for SISTAD (School for In-service Training and Development).

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

The variety of people I meet and come into contact with interests me. The most frustrating thing is when course delegates don’t read their emails.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would definitely of Army ou d de te y get rid do y hats. ats

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

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. I would play Truly Scrumptious.

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

Mother Teresa. She always thought of others before herself.

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

I’m not very sporty, but I do like to walk, so I would take part in race walking.

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

Bassetts Liquorice Allsorts. I would possibly share a few with my husband.

What is your favourite food?

Steak with chips, peppercorn sauce and loads of vegetables.

What do you do in your spare time?

Reading, walking and going to the theatre with my husband, especially when he pays.

What was the first record, tape or CD ever owned? tthat at you e e o Bye Bye Babyy by tthe Bay City Rollers, released in 1975.

What are your fav favourite Bible verses? plans I have for you,” ‘“For I know the pla Lord, “plans to prosper declares the L you and not to harm you, plans to give you a p hope and a future. h Then you will call on T me and come and pray m me, and I will listen to to m You will seek me and you. Y

Picture: BILL CRAIGHEAD (UNSPLASH)

find me when you seek me with all your heart”’ (Jeremiah 29:11–13).

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

My three-year-old grandson, Oliver. We would have so much fun.

If you could invent a gadget, what would it be?

A mode of transport to get me in a short space of time from where I live in London to my home in Ayrshire, Scotland, to be with family.

Do you have any hidden talents?

According to my husband and his work colleagues, I make a very nice lemon drizzle cake.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

Anything by Francine Rivers, who writes fiction with Christian themes.

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

‘Mamma Mia’, as performed by Young Donna and the Dynamos.

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

My lovely dad told me many years ago: ‘Remember who you are and what you are.’ He is such a godly man.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

Precious memories of significant events in my life, such as my wedding day, the arrival of my daughters and the first day I met my grandson.

Something interesting people might not know about you is …

I was the first woman to win the top brass award at the Scottish Music School in Midlothian, although that was a long time ago.