Salvationist 25 July 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

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

Open in spirit Stepping out to serve in Port Glasgow

PLUS

No.1766 Price 70p

LEARNING NEW WAYS TO MINISTER

SEE PAGES 8 AND 9

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

BRITAIN’S MODERN SLAVERY PROBLEM TEN TIMES WORSE THAN FIRST FEARED, REPORT FINDS Former foreign secretary Lord Hague has called for a renewed drive to tackle the ‘terrible crime’ of holding another human being enslaved after [a] report found a rise in incidents of domestic slavery.

The report by the Centre for Social Justice think tank and the anti-slavery charity Justice and Care... warns the problem is likely to intensify in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

Modern slaves are frequently trafficked from abroad, although in the past three years the UK has been the top country of origin of suspected slavery victims, the report says.

It cites harrowing examples of gangs using the identities of victims to commit benefit fraud, victims being plied with alcohol and drugs and forced to beg in the streets, engage in the sale of illicit tobacco or be exploited in brothels or car washes...

Government estimates in 2017 put the cost of slavery on the country at up to £4.3 billion – based on between 10,000 and 13,000 victims.

The report gathered evidence of slavery in the UK across six towns and cities... Extrapolating the data to the UK population as a whole suggests there are at least 99,469 victims linked to cases reported to police. This does not include the hidden majority of victims that are yet to be in any way identified...

Lord Hague said... ‘Modern slavery is hidden from view, even though it is all around us.’

CHILDREN IN POVERTY TO RECEIVE HELP OVER SUMMER

NEW SANCTIONS TO TARGET ABUSERS WORLDWIDE

A group of Christian charities have set up an initiative, Lockdown Hunger, to support children and their families over the summer, and are encouraging churches to work closely with schools to support them.

The charity YourNeighbour.org, working... with The Salvation Army, Transforming Lives for Good, the Message Trust, the Love Your Neighbour network and the Audacious Foundation, has highlighted how the 1.4 million children living in poverty before the pandemic, including the 1.3 million who were eligible for free school meals, now face even greater levels of financial and food insecurity...

‘While the lockdown is starting to ease, the need isn’t,’ the chairman of the YourNeighbour.org network, Dr Russell Rook, said. ‘As Christians, we want to demonstrate our love for those around us.’

Those who commit abuses motivated on the grounds of religion or belief will be sanctioned under the new UK global human rights regime.

Some 49 individuals and organisations involved in some of the most notorious human rights violations and abuses in recent years have been designated for sanctions under a new regime established by the UK, the foreign secretary has announced.

The individuals and organisations are the first wave of designations under the new arrangements, with further sanctions expected in the coming months.

The global regime means the UK has new powers to stop those involved in serious human rights abuses and violations from entering the country, channelling money through UK banks or profiting from the UK economy.

Church Times

The Church of England Newspaper

TWO THIRDS OF CHURCHES IDENTIFY LONELINESS AS TOP ISSUE TO TACKLE POST-LOCKDOWN A new study has found two thirds of UK churches identify loneliness as the top issue to tackle after the coronavirus lockdown.

The Hope Beyond report by Allchurches Trust revealed almost 70 per cent of churches believe it will be the most pressing concern in the next three months, and 58 per cent of churches believe it will remain a top issue in the year ahead.

The survey, which involved 638 respondents across... Christian denominations in the UK, also reveals... 60 per cent of churches plan to introduce initiatives to tackle isolation in older people and 21 per cent plan to do the same for younger people.

Jeremy Noles from Allchurches Trust, which provides grants to churches, told Premier the Church has a big role in responding to the issue...

‘I think... the Church has been reminded it’s not about buildings, it’s about people.

And... people... can all do something... in their own neighbourhoods and circles of influence to reach out to those who are lonely and isolated because of the pandemic.’

The Telegraph

Premier

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GENERAL Brian Peddle

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Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Major Godspower Anozie – 020 7367 4893 ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 25 July 2020

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 020 7367 4500 0845 634 0101

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

ISSN 2516-5909

FOUNDER William Booth

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

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CONTENTS

HELLO, IT’S OPPORTUNITY CALLING

THOMAS Alva Edison is rightly listed in history books as one of the world’s greatest inventors. Apart from creating or advancing items such as the electric light bulb, the phonograph and the motion picture camera, Edison took out patents on more than 1,000 inventions – including a pneumatic stencil-pen and a rock-breaking machine!

Edison had been a poor student and suffered from almost total deafness, but he was imaginative and enterprising and revelled in problem solving. Trained as a telegraph operator as a teen, Edison became more interested in how the telegraph worked rather than just operating the equipment. It was a curiosity that led to a life of research and invention.

Did it come easily to him? Not at all. In his diary (later published) he wrote of working through nights, thousands of failed tests, broken equipment and endless hours making the tiniest of adjustments to machines.

He once said: ‘Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.’ Edison knew that anything successful took work; nothing just happened without effort and without personal strain and stress.

The past four months have been a testing time for the world in a whole range of ways. It has been a testing time for The Salvation Army too. It has been interesting watching leadership, administration, corps and Army programmes adapt to ‘the new normal’. We’ve all had to work out how we do what we do when we can’t do it the way we’ve always done it!

Edison said that to grasp opportunity took work and effort. William Booth said: ‘Work as if everything depended upon work and pray as if everything depended upon prayer.’

So, has the pandemic proven to be a time when you’ve worked hard and prayed hard and grasped new opportunities? Or has it been a time to, well… not do that?

In this issue of Salvationist Patrick Herak, from Armáda Spásy Margate, says: ‘For me, knowledge of the pandemic didn’t bring any fear; it was more an opportunity to find other possibilities and ways of being and ministering.’

You’ll also see reports of new opportunities for service taken at the Southwick Community Project; how Port Glasgow Corps has ‘taken hold of the call’ to welcome strangers and show genuine love at a time when people shun each other; and how Captain Alison Greer, a regional manager for the Homelessness Services Unit, has had to find new ways of supporting people suffering from addiction and others.

In a lovely connection, Lieutenant Naomi Kelly’s Bible study also reminds us of the ‘leap of faith’ we’re sometimes called to take and the importance of focusing on Jesus when challenging days come.

Through the past four months, Salvationists and volunteers and staff have taken leaps of faith on a regular basis. For many corps and programmes, they’ve taken the opportunity to learn new ways of working and doing worship that may not all be put aside, even once the current crisis has passed.

Paul wrote in Colossians 4:5: ‘Make the most of every opportunity.’ I pray that as individuals and as an Army, we are doing this with the expectation of seeing lives changed and spiritual victories won.

Quotes from the media

2

Message from the Territorial Commander

4

News

5 to 7

Prayer matters

7

My coronavirus story 8 and 9 God is bringing us together

by Patrick Herak

News feature Cementing partnerships and supporting the community

10

by Julie Judson

Thinkaloud Salvation Army democracy

11

by John Coutts

We are The Salvation Army 12 and 13 We are here, pandemic or not says Hattie Arthur

Feature 14 and 15 More effective and efficient

by Captain Alison Greer

Bible study Peter steps out in faith

16 and 17

by Lieutenant Naomi Kelly

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Philippa Smale

Reflection His provision

18

by Brian Colley

Review Journey To Contentment

18

reviewed by Major Noreen Batt

Reflection Joy in the morning

19

by Lieutenant Chris Button

Testimony My heart and my life are God’s

20

by Sareann Walsh

Letters

21

Announcements

22 and 23

Adverts

23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring Peter Cursley

From the Editor-in-Chief Major Mal Davies

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

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

On the move

T

HIS past week many officers across the territory have been moving appointments and our thoughts are very much with them.

Moving is challenging at the best of times, but there are exceptional challenges in this period of coronavirus.

I want to thank all the people who have facilitated these moves. We pray God‘s blessing upon them, and especially on the Messengers of the Kingdom, who were commissioned just a few days ago and will be on their way to their first appointments.

I always find myself praying for officers on the move, praying that there will be no incident as they move. Over 50 years ago my parents were the commanding officers at the William Booth Memorial Halls in Nottingham and they had farewell orders and marching orders to take up the command of Croydon Citadel in south London. When we set off down the M1, we had a puncture. In fact, we had a blowout. Our car slued across the three lanes – from the outside lane onto the hard shoulder, where we glanced against one of the safety barriers, which sent us back across the three lanes.

There were no crash barriers in the centre of UK motorways at that time, so we crossed the central reservation and went across the three lanes of the oncoming traffic in a massive loop – across the central reservation again, across three lanes of southbound traffic and eventually stopping on the hard shoulder.

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Salvationist 25 July 2020

I remember the feeling of shock and relief that no one had hit us and we had hit no one. Thank God for that miracle and the skill of my dad driving the car to safety.

After the car was made roadworthy again, we eventually arrived at the Croydon quarters at 7.10 pm, where some ladies from the corps had prepared a lovely tea. Unfortunately the welcome meeting was at 7.30 pm, so my mother and father had to go straight to Croydon Citadel, while my older brother looked after me and my baby brother, Gordon.

I’m glad to say that things have changed somewhat since.

Of course, moving isn’t just the domain of Salvation Army officers.

People in the New Testament are often on the move. In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul is explaining who he is. He writes: ‘I have been constantly on the move.’

Some of us can identify with that feeling, but I think that all of us who are in Christ should find ourselves on the move. Jesus was and is a God who is on the move. In CS Lewis’s The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, Aslan – the lion, the Christ figure – is first introduced by a beaver, who explains: ‘Aslan is on the move.’

It’s the same when Jesus is introduced in John’s Gospel: ‘The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us’ (v14). I love the Message paraphrase of this, because it says: ‘The Word became flesh and blood,

and moved into the neighbourhood.’ In John 14, Jesus says: ‘If anyone loves me, he will carefully keep my word and my father will love him – we’ll move right into the neighbourhood!’ (v23 MSG). In Revelation 21, John says: ‘I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: “Look! Look! God has moved into the neighbourhood, making his home with men and women!”’ (v3 MSG).

I recently saw a quote attributed to William Booth on the internet. One of our historians couldn’t verify it, but it is suggested that William said this: ‘I am not waiting for a move of God, I am a move of God.’ Whether he said it or not, that, for me, is interesting. It is a reminder that this God on the move is in us. Every one of us as a believer in Christ is a move of God. The last verse of song 591 says: ‘O for a heart of compassion,/ Moved at the impulse of love,/ Lost ones to bring to thy footstool,/ Thy gracious riches to prove!’ This Movement, this move of God within us, is moved at the impulse of love.

Song 392 says: ‘Teach me to dance to the beat of your heart,/ Teach me to move in the power of the Spirit.’ And song 1031 says: ‘Lord, if your presence does not go with us,/ Please do not send us up from here./ How will anyone know we are your people/ Unless you go before us? Lord if your favour does not rest on us/ We dare not move beyond this place./ How will anyone know we go in your name/ Unless your blessing is over us?’

As we remember the officers on the move, I pray that we will all understand that we are called to be a move of God. I pray that we will all experience a move of God’s Holy Spirit within our hearts and lives. Even though we may not be able to be physically up and about, in Christ we are able to move forward and he in us.

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER O This

message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ user/salvationarmyvideo

NEWS

EMERGENCY AID

Dramatic rise in emergency call-outs CENTRAL NORTH THE Salvation Army’s North West emergency response service has seen a dramatic rise in call-outs since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Normally assisting the emergency services with an average of 100 callouts a year, the charitable organisation’s emergency response team saw 20 requests in just one month across the North West following the nationwide lockdown.

Equating to one fifth of an average year, this increase in April callouts led to practical and emotional support for a range of emergency services, including fire and rescue services, after several workers contracted Covid-19 and had to self-isolate.

ARMY NEWS

Army welcomes interim housing plans ENGLAND THE Salvation Army has welcomed £105 million of government funding towards interim housing for rough sleepers during the pandemic, but warned it might not solve the problem in the long term.

Assistant Territorial Director of Homelessness Services (North) Malcolm Page said that the new funding was a vital interim step to stop people being forced back on the streets as hotels reopen and emergency accommodation closes.

He added, however, that most of the funding that has been announced since March is for the next 12 months only and that the Army remains concerned about the future sustainability of the government’s investment in rough sleeping.

‘Given the wider economic

The emergency response service covers Cheshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester with four vehicles working across the area to provide refreshments for crews when dealing with urgent situations.

The team of 75 volunteers has seen the coronavirus pandemic increase pressure on the service due to lockdown health measures, with many volunteers aged over 70 needing to self-isolate. – AR

pressures caused by Covid-19, we are worried that many more people will be at risk of rough sleeping, perhaps for the first time. We are especially concerned about the impact of the temporary ban on evictions from the private and social rented sectors coming to an end in August,’ he said.

The Army is already assisting a number of local authorities to find housing for people living in

emergency accommodation, including hotels, but to find suitable, permanent options is going to take time.

Malcolm concluded: ‘There isn’t a quick fix to ending rough sleeping, and long-term investment will be essential in ensuring that we can build on the impressive strides that have been made to end rough sleeping during the pandemic so far.’ – AR

10,000 meals cooked SEE PAGE 6

£4,500 donated to corps food bank SEE PAGE 6

1,000

well-being packs delivered SEE PAGE 7

COMMUNITY

Chalk Farm hall is lit up blue to mark the 72nd birthday of the NHS

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NEWS

OUTREACH

Vulnerable jobseekers at risk, Army warns UK

ANNIVERSARY CHESTERFIELD Celebrations for the 138th corps anniversary took on a different look during lockdown.

All soldiers were asked to wear uniform and corps officers Captains Carl and Elizabeth Di-Palma visited each member at home, delivering a piece of birthday cake. As well as shopping for those who are unable to do so, the officers have maintained contact with corps folk through social media, virtual meetings and tea parties, couriered birthday cards and other activities. – CD

STAPLEFORD Before the new Public Health England guidance about playing instruments outdoors, a small band was appreciated by friends and neighbours as it visited the homes of corps folk who have been ill and in lockdown. – FT

Jane Sleep from Launceston makes face masks at home, gift-wrapping each one and including a card with words from Aaron’s blessing (Numbers 6:24–26)

COMMUNITY

Corps cooks thousands of meals WORCESTER THE corps has made and given out 10,000 meals for people experiencing homelessness who have been rehoused in hotels, bed and breakfast accommodation and centres across the city.

Every day for the past three months, officers and volunteers have packed and delivered lunches to the Fownes Hotel so that the council and the charity Caring for Communities and People can distribute them. One man said: ‘You are lifesavers. You guys have saved our lives.’

Corps officer Major Diane Henderson commented: ‘The Army is an integral part of Worcester Cares – an initiative that brings volunteer organisations in Worcester together. We’re working with Worcestershire Homeless Appeal and Worcestershire county council to source food, and this is boosted by donations from corps folk, local businesses and public donations. We have also been fortunate to receive a grant from Worcestershire Community Foundation and we would like to thank the people of Worcester for helping us to help others.’ – AR

OUTREACH SKEWEN As well as delivering Army papers during the lockdown, corps officer Captain Jo Walters and associate officer Major Mary Wolfe surprised corps folk with a strawberry cream tea. Captain Jo and Major Mary have also continued to serve the community, collecting prescriptions for vulnerable people along with food donations from supermarkets and delivering food parcels to people experiencing homelessness. Sunday meetings and Bible study have also been taking place on WhatsApp and Zoom. – SL 6

Salvationist 25 July 2020

THE Employment Plus service has warned that vulnerable jobseekers could be left behind as unemployment levels rise in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Since lockdown came into effect, 3.2 million individual universal credit claims have been made, and research suggests that more jobs are still at risk.

Employment Plus supports longterm unemployed people, those who lack computer skills, or those who have health needs that affect the work they can do.

‘The odds were already stacked against vulnerable people finding work and we are worried that some people could be locked out of the jobs market for years,’ said Rebecca Keating, Director of Employment Services.

To better support unemployed people and their families, the Army is calling on the government for a regional rethink on how to deliver consistent support to people who need help to improve their digital literacy and budgeting skills and a local rethink on the pressures that work coaches face.

To prevent newly unemployed people falling into debt the Army is also calling for an end to the five-week wait for a first payment of universal credit by changing advance payments into a one-off grant for all new claimants. It is also calling for a rethink on the Department of Work and Pension’s support for people with mental and physical health issues claiming universal credit, so that their needs are met.

– AR

FUNDRAISING

MIDDLESBROUGH ACKLAM Before the new Public Health England guidance about playing instruments outdoors, the band continued its annual tradition of playing in the cemetery on Father’s Day. The socially distanced band ministered to people who were remembering loved ones, with many of them stopping to listen to the tunes and hopefully receiving a blessing or some comfort. – LB

FRASERBURGH Fraserburgh United Football Club raised £4,500 for the corps food bank through a 24-hour running challenge. Each player was allocated a one-hour slot to run as far as they could. Braving adverse weather conditions, they covered more than 185 miles. A cheque was presented via a Zoom meeting with the team. – MDL

Prayer ARMY NEWS

TC joins call for climate action UKI TERRITORIAL Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill joined UK faith leaders in signing an open letter to the government urging it to centre its economic recovery strategy on reducing the impact of climate change.

In the letter, the leaders stated: ‘Covid-19 has unexpectedly taught us a great deal. Amid the fear and the grief for loved ones lost, many of us have found consolation in the dramatic reduction of pollution and the restoration of nature… The very health and future of humanity depends on our ability to act together not only with respect to pandemics but also in protecting our global ecosystem.’

The letter highlighted the fact that, during the pandemic, many people have seen the possibility of creating a more sustainable and generous society, which includes being accountable for how we treat the planet – a planet that has been ‘lent to us on trust only’ and for which ‘we are urgently and inescapably responsible’.

The letter calls the government to ensure that every element of the economic recovery strategy includes the urgent need to reduce the risk of catastrophic climate change; to implement policies for sustainability in every sector of the economy; and to protect biodiversity and restore the environment. – AR

NEWS IN BRIEF

MEETING CIRENCESTER Sunday club leader Corinne Walters and Deputy Songster Leader Mark Walters (pictured) led the monthly family service, which was shared on YouTube and DVD. Members of the club took part in telling a story to illustrate the point of being a unique member of God’s family.

One member took a series of photos to show how people can stand out for God, with each of the young people filmed stating that they were determined to be themselves, as God wanted them to be. – MG

STAPLE HILL Virtual ministry has remained active on Sundays and throughout the week.

People from as far afield as Australia, Canada and Japan have been taking part in Sunday worship and each week’s sermon is discussed in greater depth in virtual groups. The youth meet online every Sunday, with YPSM Laura Baker leading the Lighthouse Club, and people are caring for each other and sharing fellowship through phone calls, texts, cards and online quizzes. – VW SHOTTS Almost 1,000 well-being packs have been delivered to people who are vulnerable or isolated during lockdown, reminding them that someone cares during this difficult time. Corps officer Lieutenant Amy-Jo Battersby explained that many people in the area are older, have underlying health conditions or are isolated, with limited transport or access to shops. ‘The response has been amazing and people say they really appreciate the thought,’ she added. – AR

ENABLED FOCUS

by Amanda-Jayne Lanceley (Bromley Temple)

SATURDAY 25 JULY Every year during this particular week the Enabled Summer School of Music and Creative Arts is held in Cheltenham. This is a time for people with disabilities and their carers to come together. While this year it has unfortunately been cancelled due to Covid-19, prayerfully focus on the different joys and challenges that people with disabilities face on a day-to-day basis.

SUNDAY 26 JULY People with disabilities are often told that they can’t do this or that they’ll never achieve that. The doctors told my parents I would never walk, but I did, and danced too! Lord, people with disabilities may have more of a mountain to climb than most people, but thank you because through Christ’s strength they can do it (see Philippians 4:13). Amen.

MONDAY 27 JULY In general, people with disabilities are very sensitive to people’s emotions. They pick up and respond to them very quickly.

Sometimes they can be too trusting and can face discrimination or bullying because of it. Quite often they don’t see the risks, only the fun, of living life every day. Pray for all those who support and care for disabled people, helping to keep them safe.

TUESDAY 28 JULY A disabled person’s biggest goal is to live independently. There are many supported housing schemes and organisations in the UK that can make this happen. Sadly, some people are still fighting for the right to do this, while others are able to achieve this big step. Pray for the organisations and supported housing schemes as they help disabled people succeed in achieving independence.

WEDNESDAY 29 JULY One big challenge for people with disabilities is being accepted and included. Employers, colleagues and the general public can overlook or ignore people with disabilities. During the Enabled Summer School, participants are encouraged to use the skills they have by taking part in the timbrels, band, dance, drama or choir. Pray for the delegates at home this week. May they find another source of joy and fulfilment.

THURSDAY 30 JULY Communication can be very difficult, to be understood can be frustrating, but with braille, sign language and new technology this is becoming easier. People don’t always have the time or patience to really listen and understand, and this can hurt, upset and lead to misunderstandings. May God give us all the patience and ability to take time to understand each other.

FRIDAY 31 JULY Rejection is something people with disabilities face daily. People are too quick to see the disability and not the ability. We all have many gifts and skills and just need the chance to use them.

Read 1 Timothy 4:12 and change the word ‘young’ to ‘disabled’: ‘Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are disabled.’

Let us remember this as we go through each day.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources Salvationist Salvationist Date 18 Month July 2020 Year

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FEATURE My coronavirus story

God is bringing us together Pioneer Leader Patrick Herak (Armáda Spásy Margate) shares how the fresh expression has responded to the coronavirus pandemic

H

OW on earth can we go on? That was my first question when the Covid-19 lockdown started and Army halls and worship meetings were closed.

As a leader, people came to ask me all sorts of questions; they had so many doubts and fears. I knew immediately that I had to go to God to get answers for them.

The leaders of each ministry group within the church came together with Roma ministry co-ordinators Majors Kathryn and David Blowers for conversation and prayer. We knew from God – and decided together as a team – that we had to go on.

For me, knowledge of the pandemic didn’t bring any fear; it was more an opportunity to find other possibilities and ways of being and ministering. I saw this as a calling that God had given to me.

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Salvationist 25 July 2020

God reminded me of how the apostles experienced similar situations. They faced times when they had to be closed down, times of persecution, times when their leaders were physically absent and when believers were separated from each other.

God also reminded me that the only contact they had with each other was by

letter. Today we are blessed with new technologies and new ways of connecting. We have had to learn these in recent weeks. Understanding and using new technologies has been a real challenge for me, but I believe they are what God has given to us.

As Peter said in his first letter to those in exile: ‘In all this [salvation and eternal inheritance] you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may result in praise, glory and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed’ (1 Peter 1:6 and 7). This has helped me personally in these times and enabled me to encourage others.

The reaction to the virus in our congregation was initially mixed.

People had a lot of worry and fear for themselves and their families. Some even said they would go back to their homeland.

In the end, although other friends returned to mainland Europe, our congregation members all decided to stay.

After a few weeks people began to take notice and see what was

happening in their families during lockdown. While some struggled in their relationship with Christ and had doubts and trials of faith, it was revealed to others that things weren’t right within their family or marriage.

I had to accept some correction from God myself. This has strengthened me.

I know that God has given us more to carry in these times, but I also recognise that the burden I carry is his and that he is with me. I first had to receive from God in these times before I was able to teach and share with others so they could be strengthened too.

Ilona, my wife, and I have carried out this strengthening and encouraging ministry together. We have been meeting separately with husbands and wives, and also with married couples together. I can see things changing for the better and fruit coming out, with God bringing healing in marriages, which couples otherwise might not have known was needed. And even though some of the family struggles continue, it isn’t like it was before.

I once read something from the Rev Billy Graham that said, despite the harshest burden, blessing can come through times of suffering, pain and hopelessness; something can still grow.

When each e we e met et with t tthe e leaders eade s of o eac

Patrick Herak and Ilona Herakova

‘

Today we are blessed with new technologies and new ways of connecting

of the ministry teams we asked them what these times have been like for them. Each leader has grown spiritually.

Everyone has had to seek God for themselves. There has been a deepening of each person’s relationship with Christ, of their hope and recognition that he is the path. As they have sought his wisdom in this time, I can see that w spiritual fruits and gifts have emerged. spir In this th way, this time has been an excellent experience. exce Of O course, our patterns of ministry and communication have had to change, com and this has been a challenge. Getting to grips with prayer meetings and Bible g studies via Zoom, worship and preaching stud via Facebook Live and daily connection, encouragement and prayer requests via enc WhatsApp has been vital. Each ministry Wha group within the church has its own grou WhatsApp group and people – old and Wha you young – are now in contact daily.

N Now that lockdown restrictions are easing, Ilona has been able to go out for eas exercise with some of the women and I exe have been able to meet with some of hav the men in their gardens to encourage them. Neither Ilona nor I have had the them same kind of opportunity to connect and sam spend time with members like this until spe now. God has created a situation that now have imagined before. we couldn’t c During the pandemic there have been D hard times. People we know have died.

We have stood beside those who have

’

lost loved ones, but at the same time I have seen how God has looked after us and used us. Even in the hardest times we have been privileged to be able to support people.

One thing I know is that only with hope in Jesus will we find the way through this. My understanding, one that has come to us as a church fellowship, is that God has waited for so long but during these times has given churches who didn’t want to change a kind of earthquake. God has stepped in and helped people realise what they have to do.

Many leaders were comfortable with the way things were, and wouldn’t have changed anything. People had perhaps come to rely too much on what they were comfortable with. Now we rely on God and his word. Life will never again be like it was before. God has this in his hands. He showed me this through Psalm 32:8: ‘I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.’

God is teaching me exactly what he wants me to do, how he wants us to go on and live. The future is not going to be like it was, but God is saying that he is God and we just need to trust him.

These are difficult times, but I hold on to the positives. Couples, families and our whole church congregation have learnt new ways to love, encourage, support and be together.

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NEWS FEATURE

Cementing partnerships and supporting the community SOUTHWICK COMMUNITY PROJECT IN among all the emotions that the current crisis has brought upon families and individuals is the amazing way in which communities have drawn together, writes Child and Family Worker Julie Judson. As well as friendships being formed, organisations have joined with each other to help and support people who are isolated or struggling to cope.

At Southwick Community Project this has been evident in many ways, such as the increased donations from individuals and companies supporting our local food bank.

Wider than that, it has been evident in how individuals have supported each other and prayers have been answered.

One family in desperate need of furniture came from a referral via the council’s ‘Together for Children’ service. The following day we received a phone call from an individual wanting to donate some furniture. This was passed on to the family, which was gratefully received by them – an answer to prayer.

When a non-English-speaking couple asked us for help with their application and information regarding their status within the UK, we aimed to give them the best support possible by directing them to the services that would offer further specific assistance.

We have kept in touch with service users and our community by visiting and phoning them and delivering ‘bags of comfort’ to make them aware that we are thinking of them.

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Salvationist 25 July 2020

Julie Judson with nursing staff members from Monkwearmouth Hospital We have also taken opportunities to provide the nearby Swan Lodge Lifehouse, as well as other supported accommodation providers, emergency services and schools, with extra support via donated fresh produce.

This is all part of the wider ministry we offer across our city. The coronavirus crisis, although difficult for many, is providing us with opportunities and opening doors. We thank God for these opportunities.

Furthermore, we are one of the 22 divisional food hubs. To date we’ve distributed more than 900 food parcels across the North East England Division.

This has been done with the support and assistance of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, which has delivered food parcels to 13 of our corps.

Working alongside each other, whether through distribution, donations of food or a chat, not only is the work of The Salvation Army being acknowledged but, most importantly, the word of God is also being taken out into the community.

Thanks go to Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, FareShare, Lidl and others, as well as to a company manufacturing and supplying facial shields to us.

The words of a chorus come to mind: ‘Give thanks with a grateful heart,/ Give thanks to the Holy One;/ Give thanks because he’s given/ Jesus Christ, his Son./ Give thanks’ (SASB 364).

Thinkalou d b y John Coutts

Salvation Army democracy In the first of two articles John Coutts examines the Army’s top-down structure

M

ANY years have passed since I was a keen member of the Salvation Army Students Fellowship. Some of us thought we were the future. Our constitution was democratic, and our uncensored magazine could discuss hot topics of the time, such as apartheid and nuclear disarmament, which were taboo in the official Army press. I looked forward to the day – maybe within my lifetime – when our Movement would be based on one soldier, one vote.

Such are the illusions of youth – but frustrated calls for change still continue, even though the Territorial Commander doesn’t have to cross a line of prodemocracy pickets before entering THQ. So here’s a personal view.

Let’s go back to the beginning. How did our Lord intend his followers to be organised? ‘We cannot get the order of a single service from the New Testament, nor can we get the form of government of a single church.’ So wrote Catherine Booth in her classic 1880 address ‘Adaptation of Measures’ (published in Aggressive Christianity).

She was defending the infant Salvation Army’s unconventional – and to some people, offensive – methods and military structure. No form of church order – Roman Catholic, Protestant or Eastern Orthodox – should be treated as sacrosanct because our Lord set his followers free, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to organise in any way that would promote the gospel. Such was Catherine Booth’s argument, and here, if anywhere, we find the Army’s understanding of ecclesiology – a topic on which our 11 articles of faith say nothing at all. But if ‘adaptation of measures’ is to be our guiding principle, then plainly it ought to apply to us as well.

Catherine’s husband, William, was a Methodist minister, and the mission he founded in east London began with a structure similar to that of the New Connexion in which he had been ordained. But sudden revival and rapid growth seemed to call for strong leadership, and in 1878 the Annual Conference voted itself out of existence. Instead, it was agreed that The Christian Mission should be under the control of one person: William Booth himself. When The Christian Mission became The Salvation Army, the ‘General Superintendent’ became the ‘General’, holding office for life and with the right to appoint his own successor. Absolute monarchy had arrived.

What, though, if the General were to go mad or abandon the faith? In 1904 a change was introduced. If the General were thought to be unfit a High Council of leading officers could be called, with the power to depose him.

Twenty-five years later came crisis.

The tiny Christian Mission had become a growing international community, and many feared that the leadership was about to become hereditary. A High Council was convened and William Booth’s eldest son, Bramwell, became the first – and, so far, the only – General to be removed from office.

The story of that high tragedy has been told in detail by General John Larsson (Retired) in his book 1929: A Crisis That Shaped The Salvation Army’s Future.

Adaptation of measures had reappeared, but it stopped short at the top. Power remained in the hands of senior officers, and the resulting arrangement, with which we still live, bears an uncanny resemblance to that

of the Roman Catholic Church. The Pope appoints the cardinals, who then elect the next Pope. Likewise, the General appoints the senior officers who form the High Council, which then elects the next General. Absolute monarchy had turned into self-perpetuating oligarchy – government by the few.

But here the similarity ends, for the Roman Catholic Church teaches that our Lord appointed St Peter and his successors to preside over the Church, while The Salvation Army holds that he left his followers free to adapt to the needs of each and every age. Here, our rather rigid structure – ‘church order’, if you like the official term – rubs against our doctrinal principles.

Does it really matter, though? Nobody in this Army of volunteers is ever shot for desertion. ‘The authority of the General,’ wrote the journalist WT Stead, ‘is exercised only by the continually renewed voluntary consent of his soldiers… There is before every Salvationist the open door through which he can go out whenever he pleases.’ In other words, the rank and file, if dissatisfied, can always vote with their feet.

More than a century has passed and where is The Salvation Army today?

Does our top-down military structure help to unify an international community that crosses many cultures, keeping the lid on divisive controversy? Or does it act as a brake on badly needed change?

In the next issue of Salvationist I will try to take a personal look at some of the pros and cons.

JOHN IS A SOLDIER AT STIRLING Salvationist 25 July 2020

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There are hundreds of corps and centres up and down the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, but what currently makes them The Salvation Army?

In this series, Salvationist discovers just that

We are here, pandemic or not says Hattie Arthur from Port Glasgow

A

T Port Glasgow we are committed to living out passionate gospel, genuine love and sincere welcome for all. We are a family corps, and these are our family values.

Over the weeks and months of lockdown, we have been blessed and immensely privileged to get more opportunities than we could have imagined to visibly demonstrate that which we hold dear. In taking hold of these opportunities we have seen our corps family grow in ways that we never could have predicted.

Of course, we must recognise the suffering and pain of our community.

Our area, Inverclyde, has been labelled the ‘Covid-19 capital’. It has been the

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area in Scotland with the highest recorded number of pandemic-related deaths. It is also an area where poverty, unemployment, addiction and mental health struggles are rife. Yet into this darkness, God has brought light. The coming together of individuals and groups for the purpose of love in action has been one of the brightest beams of light we’ve seen.

What do you get when you cross a Salvationist and a counsellor? It sounds like the beginning of a joke, but this combination has represented the basis of our lockdown mission. When it comes to supporting and serving our community, all have been welcomed to join in this effort and all have been eligible to receive help.

People from various backgrounds and faiths have come together under the banner of ‘Port Glasgow Salvation Army’. We have given out 1,500 meals to vulnerable individuals each week, as well as activity packs and food parcels.

A grief project has begun to support the hundreds who have lost loved ones over this time.

Yet for us, the greatest blessing of this love-inspired, action-focused teamwork has not been the numbers encountered or reached: it has been seeing people realise that church is ‘for them’.

As people have been welcomed to the table – whether to serve or be served – their eyes have been opened to the sincere welcome they can receive.

Perhaps they have been rejected by

‘

We have been in this together, loving in practical, indiscriminate ways

churches before. Perhaps they have been too afraid to enter. Regardless, anyone who has come under the shelter of the corps umbrella has found that they can have a place.

As the corps has welcomed whosoever, we have likewise found ourselves welcomed by others. The Inverclyde Community Action Response Group (ICARG), a voluntary organisation, was set up quickly in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

ICARG has undertaken myriad projects and provided huge support to our community. It has also welcomed the corps as a key component of its work, giving us a place, a voice and a visible face. It has embraced the opportunity to work alongside us, something that non-religious organisations do not always afford to members of the Church.

We’ve been able to share gospel words with the people we have encountered. These conversations – often with those in pain – have been

’

surprising, beautiful and profound. But our sharing has not been through words alone. It has, significantly, been through our actions.

Scripture challenges us with the fact that ‘faith without deeds is dead’ (James 2:26). Indeed, this is the impetus behind all that we do; behind all that we have done over this time.

The words of Hebrews 13:2 come to mind, with the call to ‘show hospitality to strangers’. It is always astonishing to take hold of that call and to realise how quickly strangers become friends, or even angels, to us. At this time we have all been forced to socially distance and view others with caution. And so what a blessing it has been to welcome strangers as family, looking into their eyes and finding in everyone the image of God. This is what genuine love is about for us: embracing without judgment or fear.

Over these past few weeks, many of our corps members have been unable to

attend worship and serve in the ways that they usually would. Yet each one has demonstrated love. Many have baked cakes for our new volunteers, showing love to those they have never met. Money and items have been gifted.

Prayers have been shared. There has been no ‘us’ and ‘them’. No ‘Salvationist’ and ‘other’. We have been in this together, loving in practical, indiscriminate ways.

As we have fed the hungry and faithfully stewarded our resources, as we have responded to the Spirit’s call to service, we have prayed to see transformation in our community and in individual lives. As we have welcomed, loved, worked with and supported the whosoever, we have sought to see God’s Kingdom come.

As we begin to move into a postlockdown society, we don’t know what that future will hold. We don’t know for how long the pandemic’s effects will be seen. However, our latest partnership campaign assures people that it is always OK to ask for help. There is never a need for people to struggle or to suffer alone.

While there are people to be helped, we will do everything we can to keep helping them. We will continue to share the gospel, loving and welcoming all who come to us or to whom we can go.

This is our commitment. These are our values. This is what our family does.

Pandemic or not, we are here.

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FEATURE Life in lockdown

More effective and efficient Regional Manager for Homelessness Services Unit (London) Captain Alison Greer shares how her life has changed for the better since lockdown

M

Y job title is quite misleading as I work across six divisions and my patch spans from Norwich to the south coast and Leicester to the east coast. Lieutenant Daniel Holland works alongside me as assistant regional manager and Major Andrea Cooper oversees all the chaplaincy work in the region.

We have 11 centres and provide a temporary home to almost 600 people every day, as well as signpost and support about 160 people who come regularly to our day centres. While Daniel and I oversee these services, we have around 150 staff members who are on the front line doing the daily hard graft.

Before the coronavirus pandemic my days would have been filled with visits to centres to offer advice and support to service managers, monitor for contractual compliance and liaise with local authorities, as well as partner

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agencies and media. My office was based at THQ, although weeks would go by without me stepping through the door.

Since lockdown began my daughter, Emma, husband, Keith and I have been working from home in line with territorial directives. We joke, saying that our home has become a service centre with the three of us taking over most of the house with our new ‘office’ spaces. The icing on the cake has been the return of our youngest daughter, Brianna, from university.

There were numerous occasions at the start of the year when people asked how I was and I replied that I just

needed the world to stop for a few days, maybe a week, so I could catch up on a backlog of admin and paperwork. More than 13 weeks later, on a positive note, my undealt-with emails have gone from 978 to 27. Face-to-face meetings are now held through Lifesize or Zoom.

Contract meetings are now conference calls. Team meetings are virtual. We are all becoming much more technologyconfident. It is great that meetings take much less time than before and it is now possible to attend meetings in Norwich and London on the same day.

Support and advice are given remotely, with the directive that we are not to visit centres to reduce any unnecessary footfall and contamination risk between them, not to mention any government guidelines regarding travel.

This is probably the area that I battle with the most. I have found it difficult to expect people to put their fear behind them and go to work, yet I am unable to lead by example. However, working from home has helped me better protect Keith, who is shielding and has only been out of the house twice since February – to the hospital for his regular treatment. Now he is self-administering at home he doesn’t even get the excitement of those visits. As we move into the next phase of lockdown life, we need to learn what all the new ‘rules’ will be.

Having split the region between Daniel and myself, I have been part of three different divisional triage groups who

‘

I am much more productive in what I get done every day

’

meet online several times a week to discuss programmes at corps and centres. This has been really good in widening my understanding of the depth of work that goes on in the North London, Anglia and Central East Divisions.

The only thing I miss from THQ is a decent printer and scanner. I do, however, miss people, especially colleagues in the Music Editorial team with whom we share the annexe office space.

I am much more productive in what I get done every day. I am able to respond to service managers and other enquiries in minutes or hours rather than days. As a result, I feel far less stressed and I am eating and sleeping more healthily. Family time has also much improved, even if we spend lots of time

and energy pranking each other.

Life for our centres, in many ways, has carried on as usual with adaptations to physically distance from one another – I use the word ‘physically’ deliberately as the social connection has improved.

External companies have become donors, there have been VE Day parties, Eid celebrations, hopscotch skipping and weekly games events.

On the tougher side, staff members have had to deal with many challenges.

A few examples are: O Fear and uncertainty, personally and professionally O New ways of supporting addicts in times of self-isolation O Trying to get young people to understand that this is serious O Finding a balance between the government’s requirement to have no evictions and the unacceptable behaviour by residents when they believe the usual rules don’t apply O Supporting a new cohort of rough sleepers when the judicial system offered release to prisoners

O In

Norwich, dealing with the reality that the closure of shops and food outlets meant the service centre had the only available toilet in the city centre open to rough sleepers

I am really proud of staff and residents for how they are handling these times.

God is good and to date we have only had about 90 people affected by the virus. A young woman who had been in intensive care has made a full recovery and a staff member who tested positive for Covid-19 is now working again and keeping well. Daniel, who was also helping the NHS as a trained registered nurse at the weekends, tested positive too. He ended up in hospital but he is now fine.

There is much talk of when we go back to ‘normal’. I don’t actually want to, as hindsight has shown me so many flaws in how I worked. My prayer for all who work in and use our services is that, moving forward, we can keep hold of what is important and continue to work more effectively and efficiently.

Salvationist 25 July 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

Peter steps out in faith Lieutenant Naomi Kelly reminds us to focus on Jesus MATTHEW 14:22–33

D

O you remember the scene in Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade where our hero is introduced to ‘the path of God’? He has to get from one side of a wide chasm to the other. Initially, his words are: ‘Impossible!

Nobody can jump this.’ His father cries out: ‘You must believe, boy, you must believe’. Indiana raises his foot and, in faith, steps out into the gaping void.

Spoiler alert: As though being held by an invisible force, his foot is suspended in mid-air, before a camouflaged pathway emerges and he makes his way safely to the other side.

In our study passage we see a similar act of faith – someone feels that they can’t do something but they step out in faith and discover that they can.

After the feeding of the five thousand, ‘Jesus made the disciples get into the

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

by Major Philippa Smale

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Salvationist 25 July 2020

boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd’ (v22). The feeding had created quite a stir. The crowds were growing enthusiastic. Perhaps some among them were keen to force Jesus into a role of political leadership. Jesus sent the disciples away, then took himself off to pray alone. Speaking to God was his priority.

I know that I can easily become distracted. ‘Naomi talks too much!’ was often a comment on my school reports. But it’s so easy to lose focus when you’re surrounded by other seemingly more interesting or more important things. It often helps me to think about what it is that distracts me and what engages me well.

Ultimately, spending time in prayer with God nurtures my relationship with him.

Even Jesus would come away from the chaos to seek time alone with his Father. We should do the same.

QUESTIONS O When have you been distracted from something important? What happened?

O What keeps your focus?

O How could you better prioritise your conversations with God? With the wind and the waves growing, the disciples experienced a rocky journey in their boat. Jesus went to them. As they were no longer near the shore, there was no way that the figure the disciples saw was standing on dry land. They would have had little or no sleep, so it’s no wonder that they thought they were seeing a ghost.

Peter, who often spoke without thinking and could be quite a bold character, called out to Jesus: ‘Lord,

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd.

After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

(Matthew 14:22–24)

And yet, alas! a storm-tossed sea/ Of care and doubt and fear/ Still parts me, Saviour Lord, from thee,/ Although thou art so near./ O speak again and bid me come,/ From every fear set free,/ In spite of self and sin and storm,/ Upon the waves to thee.

(SASB 619)

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified.

‘It’s a ghost,’ they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’

(Matthew 14:25–27)

if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water’ (v28). This statement was not made to put Jesus to the test; it was a reaction of faith.

Jesus invited Peter out of the boat and Peter began to walk on water. All went well until Peter’s attention shifted away from Jesus and the task in hand to focus on the wind and waves instead.

By losing focus, he began to sink and fear set in again.

good to remember that even if we fail, Jesus will still support us and love us.

There was still a rebuke for Peter: ‘Why did you doubt?’ Like him, we will always be held accountable for our actions but that doesn’t mean that we are loved any less. The key thing is that God will never leave us and, even in the midst of doubts, we can reach out to Jesus, just as Peter did.

QUESTIONS O When have you started something well and then been filled with doubt?

O What do you think causes doubt?

O When

Notice that Jesus helped Peter ‘immediately’ (v31). He didn’t stand back and watch him flounder for a while or mock him for failing. Instead, Jesus offered Peter his hand and caught him in a loving action. It is

QUESTIONS have you reached out to God? O Why do you think God rebukes us at times?

O When have you found it difficult to trust God? Once out of the boat, Peter realised things were going wrong and knew that he had made a mistake. However, he instinctively reached out to Jesus, whom he trusted.

Many of us might have had moments when we feel that we have failed and there’s no way back. The good news is that it is never too late to reach out to Jesus.

Peter stepped out of the boat in faith but there was a moment when he began to sink. We might have moments when we take a leap of faith but later become disheartened when the way is not smooth. We might feel as though we are sinking. If we focus on Jesus in those times and reach out to him, the waves and wind of circumstance will not consume us.

LIEUTENANT KELLY IS CORPS OFFICER, MIDDLESBROUGH CITADEL

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Jesus is strong to deliver,/ Mighty to save! Mighty to save!/ Jesus is strong to deliver,/ Jesus is mighty to save.

(SASB 449)

‘Lord, if it’s you,’ Peter replied, ‘tell me to come to you on the water.’ ‘Come,’ he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came towards Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’

(Matthew 14:28–30)

Souls in danger, look above,/ Jesus completely saves;/ He will lift you by his love/ Out of the angry waves./ He’s the Master of the sea,/ Billows his will obey;/ He your Saviour wants to be,/ Be saved today.

(SASB 853)

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’ And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.

Then those who were in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ (Matthew 14:31–33)

Prayer When we are sinking in fear, doubt, despair or hopelessness, Jesus stretch out your hand and rescue us.

Give us courage, faith, joy and hope. Thank you, Lord.

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REFL RE FLECTION FLEC ECTI EC TION ON REFLEC REFLECTION

REVIEW

A companion on the pilgrim way Major Noreen Batt reviews Journey To Contentment

by Sally Welch

R His provision Brian Colley (Clowne) continues his series of reflections on verses from Psalms For the Lord takes delight in his people (Psalm 149:4)

I

T is easy to like nice people and enjoy being in their company. It is also enjoyable to help such folk when they seek our support. Human nature is usually selective in this way.

God, however, does not only choose nice people. The psalmist tells us that he takes delight in all his people. The most hated person, the dirtiest person, the person everyone avoids, the person with a contagious disease – everyone is included in that statement. God takes pleasure in his people, regardless of who they are.

In the book The Old Corps by Edward Joy, which was retold in the musical Glory, is the story of ‘Dirty Jimmy’. As his name suggests, he was filthy and carried an odour, especially after warming himself by the stove in the hall. On one occasion he went to the penitent form and knelt by an aristocrat, known only as ‘Lady B’. Some people immediately went to move him, but Lady B said to leave him alone because, as she rightly put it: ‘We are both seeking the same Lord.’

The Lord takes delight in all his people. Jesus Christ did not only die for nice people; he died for every one of the human race. If everyone in the world took the same pleasure in God as he takes in them there would be only nice people.

Each and every one of God’s children would be truly in his image.

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EADING this guide brought a helpful dimension to the prospect of going on a journey to contentment right in the midst of the rawness of life. As Sally Welch observes: ‘Contentment is not a secret, but it is a mystery… it is learned, and the lessons can be hard work.’

We are guided to prepare for the journey, to step out in faith, find the rhythm of how to walk well, encounter challenges on the way and discover the mystery of contentment as we go. Written in 52 short chapters, it feels like a pocketbook that you could take on a pilgrimage – thoughts to mull over at the beginning or end of the day, guidance to ponder over a cup of coffee and insights to wonder about in between.

The Scriptures given for each step are carefully placed stepping stones that you don’t always expect, but that adds interest. In each chapter there is a suggested exercise that offers a variety of responses, from spiritual disciplines to artwork, from creative to practical responses, from gardening to decluttering.

This is a book you could use by yourself for daily devotions or – if you wanted to dwell on the insights for longer and exercise them in your life – as a weekly guide.

Alternatively, you could use it as a pilgrimage guide with a small group of fellow pilgrims and enjoy companionship along the way.

As we gradually emerge from lockdown, Sally’s reflection on Ezekiel’s vision of the dry bones particularly resonates: ‘Deprived of the structure that sustained his life, he must find a new way of thinking and believing. With the old supports destroyed, hope must be sought – and found – in a new place.’

This book offers a gentle, thoughtful companion on the pilgrim way. You pi just ju might want to pop po it in your rucksack! ru

O Journey

To Contentment C is available a from brfonline.org.uk priced £8.99 (plus postage and packing) or as an ebook from amazon. co.uk

REFLECTION

Joy in the morning Lieutenant Chris Button reflects on the experience of grieving and the hope that faith brings

‘N

O one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear.’ That is the opening line of the book A Grief Observed, which CS Lewis wrote after his wife died. His exposure to what grief really was transformed the way he understood his faith.

Christians are often not very good at dealing with grief. We are torn between believing that the person we love is now in a better place, while feeling the intense pain of loss that they are not with us – not simply the pain of that immediate absence, but the existential pain of what might have been, of all the hopes and possibilities that have been torn apart. We want to celebrate the life that was lived while still shedding tears for the life that came to an end.

Grief doesn’t just hurt; it leaves a cloud of confusion drawn like a veil over the mind and heart. Some feelings are numbed, while others are made more acute. Sometimes the emotions come and pour out of us, and on other days it can be difficult to feel anything at all.

Things that never seemed to matter suddenly become unbearably important, while what were once the most consuming activities lose their lustre.

We want to throw ourselves into our work one day and the next simply getting out of bed is harder than could be imagined. We have a day when we laugh or smile, then later feel guilty that we had a moment of happiness, almost as if it were a betrayal of the one we love by feeling happiness without them.

Then a well-meaning soul reminds you that ‘God is still on the throne’, or something similar. It’s well intentioned, and said with love, but falls empty into the void of meaning that has torn a cleft through your broken heart.

We don’t know what to say or do and feel lost in the middle of it all. We don’t do grief well – but the Bible does.

In psalms and stories, in heartwrenching prayers and in the quiet sobs of the broken, the Bible teaches us to lament. There’s even a whole book named after it: Lamentations.

Two examples out of many are Jesus weeping at the tomb of Lazarus (see John 11:33 –35) and David weeping for the loss of his friend, Jonathan (see 2 Samuel 1:11 and 12). However, the book of Lamentations, in the middle of describing the desolation and despair of the people of God, tells us: ‘The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning’ (3:22 and 23 New Revised Standard Version).

Psalm 30 is one of my favourites. It says: ‘Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning’ (v5 NRSV). It does nothing to take away the

shattering pain of our grief, but it promises that there will be joy again in the future. Perhaps that is the greatest gift that faith in Jesus gives to us as we grieve.

Faith does not mean that our pain will be taken away or that our loss will have any kind of meaning. Faith does not explain why the person we love has died; it does not try to give meaning to the suffering we are feeling. Our weeping lasts through the night, but faith gives us hope for the morning, even if we can’t see the dawn approaching yet.

We don’t always know when the dawn will come, when the end to our pain will arrive and when we will be able to find joy again. We have to live through the darkness of our grief, although we can know that we do not walk through this darkness alone. In the midst of our pain, Jesus, the man of sorrows, feels our pain with us and stands alongside us.

Our faith tells us that the way things are now is not how they will always be.

Our hope is for what is yet to be, not that we will no longer walk through the night of our pain and grief. Faith in the crucified Christ reminds us that joy comes in the morning. The night will turn to day and our grieving will become dancing once again.

LIEUTENANT BUTTON IS CORPS OFFICER, WANDSWORTH

Salvationist 25 July 2020

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TESTIMONY

My heart and my life are God’s Sareann Walsh (Clitheroe) shares how God transformed her life

I

WAS born with poor eyesight, but I had a good childhood with my loving parents and two sisters. I had an older brother, John, but he died, so although I was the second child I became the eldest.

My eyesight had an effect on my childhood. I could not see very far so I could not play outside. I wasn’t able to see to play when the sun was very bright or see in the dark. I couldn’t play with a ball unless it was big and brightly coloured, so I was not able to play tennis, golf or games like that.

I went to a special school for blind children, where I felt more comfortable and fitted in well. I learnt braille, went swimming, horse riding, mountain climbing and did lots of other activities.

As well as poor eyesight I had a heart problem – an extra valve that was piercing my heart – and the doctors said I would die by the age of 12, which scared me. I did not know it at the time, but God was with me, an d I don’t know how to thank him for my life.

I went to Sunday school in Sutton Coldfield. I enjoyed it but didn’t like it when I was on my own, as I was teased and picked on by other children because of my eyes. I left church when I met Geoff, who did not believe. We got married and moved to Lancashire, and I put God to the back of my mind.

My family life was difficult as my husband abused his medication and smoked cannabis. I lost my first 20

Salvationist 25 July 2020

child, and then had a son and two daughters. At the time I asked God for help, and he did help me.

‘

I did not know it at the time, but God was with me

’

My husband developed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and was eventually on oxygen 24 hours a day. My children suffered during this time, and the days leading up to Geoff’s death were unbearable to watch.

After Geoff’s death I found being a single parent hard. The children were free of their dad’s illness, but they went off the rails for a while. I was upset and found it hard to cope. But when they saw me upset, I told them I needed them to help me and they began to do better.

A while later my father became seriously ill and I wanted to go and see him in Birmingham before he died. I had no money for the train, so I contacted Citizens Advice, which contacted The Salvation Army to ask if it could help.

Corps leaders Territorial Envoy Brenda Wise and Aux-Captain Elizabeth Smith met me at the station and paid for my return ticket. I was so grateful. My dad passed away, and Elizabeth and Brenda said: ‘You know where we are if you need anything.’

As time went by I found myself in debt, so I asked Citizens Advice

for help again. Ann, a lovely lady, suggested I go to The Salvation Army for company. I went into the building one day when the Job Club and Drop-in were taking place. I sat at a table with a cup of tea, and Elizabeth came and sat with me.

I told her I had a lot of guilt about how the children had suffered during Geoff’s illness – I felt I had not done enough to protect them. Elizabeth talked to me about how Jesus could take our burden of guilt away if we said sorry for our part. I went home and thought about it, and I asked Jesus to forgive me for not doing more. I felt free and I had a sense of peace in my heart.

One Sunday morning I woke up and heard a voice say: ‘You are going to church today!’ I said: ‘Am I?’ The voice said: ‘Yes, you are.’ So I got ready and went to the Army – and I have been going ever since.

I was enrolled as a soldier earlier this year, on the first Sunday in the new corps hall, which was really lovely. I am so happy and blessed to be a soldier in God’s Salvation Army. I have changed so much since I gave my life to Jesus.

Even my children have commented on the difference.

My heart and my life are God’s. I am so grateful to him. Jesus is wonderful.

He is my shepherd and I am his lamb.

I shine with Jesus in my life. My past is no more because of him, and I am happier than before. I want to serve him for the rest of my life, and I thank him for all he has done for me.

LETTERS

ABSOLUTELY INSPIRING WHAT an absolutely inspiring set of verses composed in response to the request made by the Territorial Commander (Salvationist 27 June)! The original lines from song 747 by Augustus Toplady quoted by Gordon Taylor prompted me to go back to my 1953 edition of the songbook, where it was number 525 and the verses were divided into two. Line five was changed from ‘The sense of thy expiring love’ to ‘The knowledge of thy dying love’. As was then the practice, ‘thy’ had an upper-case ‘T’.

The 1953 version also included the chorus: ‘Now none but Christ can satisfy,/ No other name for me;/ There’s love and life and lasting joy,/ Lord Jesus, found in thee.’

In the 1986 songbook, as number 565, the alteration is acknowledged, but the chorus is missed off. In our current songbook, the chorus has reappeared separately as number 508 – to use with the original tune, 101, in the tune book.

All absolutely fascinating.

Len Roberts Hemel Hempstead

CHALLENGE AND OPPORTUNITY AT MGS Counselling our workload has more than doubled during the coronavirus pandemic. The large number of requests we are dealing with provides serious challenge and great opportunity. As a confidential service, we can only make public comments in general, but one story can be mentioned because the client in question gave us permission to share it.

It began with them bluntly stating: ‘Before we start let me say that I don’t believe in God!’ As the counselling progressed, the client added: ‘Like everybody else at this terrible time, I find myself praying.’ At that critical moment I heard myself say: ‘I am so glad that although you don’t believe in God, you trust him enough to ask for his help!’ Or as Commissioner Mona Westergaard once wrote: ‘God has his reasons, For times and seasons,/ So why question his will and his way?/ He knows what is best, Acceptance brings rest/ He’ll explain at the end of the day.’

Could this possibly be God’s time, and The Salvation Army’s season?

Jorgen Booth Major Worthing

INCREDIBLE TIMING THERE was recently an article regarding Fortress Radio (Salvationist 6 June). I want to say that the inception and broadcasting of the station has been a real help and means of blessing to my husband and many of our friends through this very difficult time we have been experiencing. The timing was incredible – ready for lockdown.

We have heard many comments about how helpful it has been and not only from Salvationists. Some people, albeit ‘oldies’, have even called it a life-saver. The day-long programming on Sunday has been wonderful, reminding us of the Lord’s Day and giving structure to our week. The testimony time in the evening meetings has been particularly uplifting, especially those heard on 7 June.

Well done, Fortress Radio. We know you will probably evolve now that restrictions are being lifted, but please do not forget us older Salvationists who love ‘the old stuff’!

Mr and Mrs Brian Jeffs Nottingham

every day Broadcasting blessings INTERVIEW

Radio ly launched Fortress

ionist about the recent

l Promotions, tells Salvat

Stuart Hall, owner of Citade

OPEN LEARNING I WOULD like to thank the Open Learning team at William Booth College for the help they have given me in my studies during the lockdown. Studying their modules has given me a structure to work through in Bible study and doctrine. My tutor has been very helpful in stretching my knowledge and understanding. I can recommend the courses to others as a great way of developing their faith and understanding of The Salvation Army in these difficult times.

Richard Smart Wimbledon

?

WHO ELSE IS INVOLVED if the site could s we Zonophone but asked Since starting live broadcast RADIO GET sly rather than HOW DID FORTRESS of regular play tracks continuou have built a small group a time.

STARTED? schedules are one track or album at presenters. Most of the the running and music In early 2019 I acquired Investigating this option, self-running, with suitable Zonophone we could provide how However, and hosting of the Regal mind in database. keeping selected from the 20 years Ian nd website. For more than a ministry to the housebou we currently have three Sundays had on on Australia, met, we hit . The Barton in Adelaide, Salvationists we had meetings led by presenters more than 1,200 a radio station. around meticulously collated the idea of launching news on the hour is centred records, LPs albums to albums, including 78rpm from that week’s We had more than enough pages news given the was look launching, we and cassettes. A fresh by my wife, get started and, since Salvationist and are read outside tary albums to the website, and albums White hosts have received complimen Lorraine. Major Keith with SP&S like to hear at 9.30 the copyright remit agreed from corps who would (the prayer meeting) Drill Knee on the station.

Major were taken out. their sections featured am before War Cry Editor new website After the launch of the and Captain Andrew Stone (THQ) and messages RADIO I started receiving calls Hall) present DO YOU HAVE PREVIOUS Alison Stone (Regent UK asking if I from people around the Later, at 6 EXPERIENCE? Holiness Hour at 11 am. collections of their appeared take to have I like would Harry (Lincoln) Frankly, no! However, pm, Bandmaster Marc too many I was Other recordings. There were on radio shows, for example hosts the Salvation Meeting. with on my promoting the recorded requests for me to deal on Radio 4’s Midweek people who have provided Austin Burn, album own, so a friend of mine, programmes International Staff Band messages or presented Together we met research were volunteered to help.

Peddle, Together. So, hours of ts who include General Brian meetings with oner a number of former Salvationis undertaken as well as Commander Commissi their Territorial about us to radio talk BBC nel were happy to some current and retired Anthony Cotterill, Lieut-Colo in some small immensely. experiences and how, Booth College), presenters, who helped Judith Payne (William Army’. Visiting Malcolm way, they ‘missed the Stephen Poxon and Major came across IS DIFFERENT older Salvationists, we THE SUNDAY FORMAT Westwood. cannot get to THE WEEK. HOW OF the same message: ‘I REST THE FROM I used to. I do the Army as much as FUNDED? DID THAT COME ABOUT? HOW IS THE STATION Sunday was a miss it.’ up the During my childhood, The main cost for setting Austin and we lived some Over coffee one morning both Austin and full day at the Army. As station was time that wondered if normal to I shared our stories and The financial way from the hall it was I were happy to invest. to those and stay all day. we could provide a service initially met take a picnic with us costs to get started were a Sunday that ts Salvationis who could not get to Fortress Thinking of those by a major donor. When out to we meeting as well as reaching no longer attend meetings, we had enough could live, went corps. a Radio attended of music those who no longer to keep the wanted to provide a mixture funds in the account conversation format of three A week later I was in months. We throughout the day. The station ‘on air’ for three Music Editorial with someone in the find a use for and three open-airs became would meetings God that how prayed mentioned schedules.

Unit at THQ and they the Holy the basis for the Sunday this service. We believe Regal they loved listening to this with us Spirit was working on from from the start. Revenues via the advertising and donations

website are keeping operating.

the station

T ISSUES? ARE THERE COPYRIGH took advice Before launching we s in from a lawyer who specialise registered with music copyright and ce PPL (Phonographic Performan radio Limited), which licenses ers. stations and TV broadcast

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IN’?

HOW CAN PEOPLE ‘TUNE online, people Because we broadcast iPad, can listen on any computer, that has internet tablet or smartphone Amazon Alexa access. Listening via we recently is also an option and and iOS launched an app for Android

devices.

ON NORMAL WHY ISN’T FORTRESS RADIO AIRWAVES? cost. To host a The simple answer is channels radio station on the FM of £15,000 a would cost upwards costs. An month, including licence ly more internet station is significant effective. cost BEEN WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE LIKE? run some test Our initial plan was to lead up to Easter, transmissions in the launch the new using Easter itself to ces station. However, circumstan and we went live. changed in February and in the We were not quite ready, we learnt some first couple of weeks With a few valuable lessons, fast. we completed ing weeks of broadcast key personnel booked a meeting with could work at THQ to see how we

together. known when we Little could we have that the day of arranged to visit THQ day after our meetings was the ed a the prime minister implement the number of lockdown. Suddenly, where they people now in a position was ‘couldn’t get to the Army’ significantly higher. we were In our first few weeks of listeners pleased to see the number Then on the rising into the hundreds.

5,774 first Sunday of the lockdown

FORTRESS WHAT IMPACT HAS RUNNING RADIO HAD ON YOU? the significance I could not have guessed Radio. The of the timing of Fortress has had a major coronavirus pandemic God is and impact on how we worship, to bless and certainly using the station I feel like the little comfort many people.

DEVELOP THE a small basket of ARE THERE PLANS TO boy who turned up with my STATION FURTHER? this man Jesus has taken then food, after lockdown is feeding the We are conscious that basket, blessed it and normal’ and, I feel we will be living a ‘new thousands who are listening. what that will take my small while we don’t know humbled that he should continually comfort his people. look like, we shall be offering and use it to fit to content and reviewing the format We are to Fortress Radio on in with this new lifestyle.

O You can listen programmes e, which also has currently planning new fortressradio.onlin as podcasts. to listen via Amazon that will also be provided instructions on how es are smartphone app Some of those programm Alexa or download the – sections focused on music sections and – today AT MAIDENHEAD of yesterday as well as STUART IS A SOLDIER with a variety of INTERNATIONAL interviews are THE others AND MEMBER OF who will Salvationists and friends STAFF BAND share their stories.

the figures tuned in and from there rising. have been gradually a number of We’ve received quite They can be messages from listeners. e/ read at fortressradio.onlin messages.

Salvationist 6 June 2020

Salvationist 6 June 2020

Salvationist 25 July 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff Effective 1 August O Lieut-Colonel Beauty Zipingani, an officer of the Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory, is appointed as Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Zambia Territory Effective 1 September O Major Agripina Góchez, an officer of the Latin America North Territory, is appointed as Chief Secretary, Latin America North Territory. She, along with Major Gerardo Góchez, will take up her new appointment responsibilities with the rank of lieut-colonel Effective 1 November O Commissioners Merle and Dawn Heatwole, officers of the USA Central Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Latin America North Territory O Colonels Lee and Debbie Graves, officers of the Canada and Bermuda Territory, are appointed as International Secretary for Business Administration and IHQ Chaplain and City of London Liaison Officer, International Headquarters with the rank of commissioner O Colonels Gabriel and Indumati Christian, officers of the India Western Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, India South Western Territory O Colonels John Kumar Dasari and Mani Kumari Dasari, officers of the India Central Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, India South Eastern Territory O Lieut-Colonels Lalhmingliana Hmar and Lalhlimpuii Chawngthu, officers of the India Eastern Territory, are appointed as National Executive Officer and National Secretary for Women’s Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

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Salvationist 25 July 2020

Development, India National Office with the rank of colonel O Lieut-Colonels Chawnghlut Vanlalfela and Khupchawng Ropari, officers of the India Eastern Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, India Western Territory with the rank of colonel O Majors John William and Ratna Sundari Polimetla, officers of the India Central Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, India Western Territory with the rank of lieut-colonel

response, which would be supported by other territories through funding and technical support. What about a global pandemic, when every country is dealing with it on their own? This conversation with Emergencies Co-ordinator Damaris Frick (IHQ) explains how the Army is responding and some of the key lessons we can take with us when we come out on the other side.

O This and previous episodes are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud and Google Podcasts

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Platinum (70th) O Stan and Dorrie Sabey, Stockton (5 August) Golden O SL Graham and CT Marilyn Leonard, Lowestoft Citadel (8 August)

TRIBUTES

PROMOTED TO GLORY B/Sec Howard Pentland, Greenock O Sandra Sedgeman, Redruth O

BEREAVED O Captain Ruth Hammond of her sister Christine Coe O Major Harry Wilson of his brother Lesley Wilson O Jean Prestwich, Swindon Citadel, of her son Neil O HLS Maureen Pentland, Greenock, of her husband B/Sec Howard Pentland, Stephen Pentland, Govan, of his father, Morag Marshall, Greenock, and Raymond Pentland of their brother

WHAT’S ON LIEUT-COLONEL NORMAN BEARCROFT: FESTIVAL OF THANKSGIVING Govan presents an online Festival of Thanksgiving for the life of Lieut-Colonel Norman Bearcroft on Sunday 2 August at 7.30 pm. Led by the Bearcroft family, it will be a time of music, memories, laughter and joy.

O Join the event by signing into Zoom using the meeting ID 393 078 4231 and the password 313200 DEVELOP PODCAST The Salvation Army regularly responds to localised disasters such as floods or earthquakes. Typically this would involve the local Salvation Army setting up a

MAJOR IRENE POCOCK IRENE was born in Redruth in 1940 to officer parents.

Throughout her childhood the family moved up and down the county as her parents took up various appointments. Irene always enjoyed taking part in the corps programme wherever she lived.

In 1963 she entered the International Training College in the Proclaimers of the Faith Session, aptly named for the lifetime of ministry to which she was called.

In 1965 Irene married Lieutenant John Pocock and together they served in Salvation Army men’s hostels including Greenock, Bristol, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Rochdale. Irene worked tirelessly to help the marginalised and disadvantaged, and many people’s lives were improved. Many people found a faith in Jesus because of her ministry.

In 1994 John and Irene retired and settled in Morley, where they became involved in the corps. Even in retirement Irene found ways to help and encourage the people she came into contact with, especially serving as home league secretary. In her final days living in the care home she witnessed to her faith.

The words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew are a testimony to her life: ‘I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink‌’ (25:35 and 36 English Standard Version). Irene is now receiving her eternal reward, which she so richly deserved.

She leaves behind her beloved husband, John, her four children, Ian,

Caroline, David and Joy, and her grandchildren whom she loved so much. Irene is greatly missed. – DJ RAYMOND FENSOM, HENDON RAYMOND was born in 1930 at Easington Colliery, Durham. The only son of Brigadiers Algernon and Lillian Fensom, Raymond lived a somewhat nomadic existence, travelling far and wide at the behest of The Salvation Army.

As a young bandsman, Raymond became a firm favourite on many festival programmes. A talented wordsmith, he would recite his self-penned monologues, such as Odd Odes, and was a popular compère in Salvation Army circles.

At Chalk Farm, Raymond met his

beloved wife, Freda Blackman – a very happy union that was to last for 67 years and produced four children: Paul, Simon, Nicholas and Alison. In his mid-thirties, Raymond qualified as a solicitor. He was a consummate professional with a willing ear, and a support and encourager to many.

He served his dear Lord in many guises at ‘The Farm’, Watford and latterly at Hendon. He was a true Christian gentleman.

Servant of God, well done! – AR RAYMOND ALDWORTH, CARDIFF CANTON RAYMOND was born in 1938 in Tow Law. He soldiered at the local corps and immediately found a

love of God and service through the Army. He lived in the town until the 1960s when he moved to Darlington for work, and later married his soulmate, Iris, in 1965. They enjoyed going to the Army and were blessed with three children.

Ray loved the Army but was a behindthe-scenes man, never one to take centre stage. He loved banding and played his double Bb bass for many years.

He was a gifted mechanic who kept many an officer’s car on the road. Sadly, later in life, Ray did not attend as much as he wanted and drifted slightly. With his failing health it then became difficult to attend.

Dementia and ill-health took their toll on Ray, and he was promoted to Glory suddenly. Now he is safe in the arms of Jesus. – DM-A

ADVERTS TO LET ALTEA, SPAIN. Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom heated apartment, pool, tennis, garden, garage. Shops, restaurants, beach close, hillwalking. Warm winter area.

Airport transfers available. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net TOPSHAM, DEVON. Two-bedroom cottage overlooking Exe Estuary and hills.

Local shops, inns, teashops, walks. Coast, moors, Exeter nearby. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net

RAP AROUND THE GOSPEL

by John Coutts

The ‘old old story’ in a brand new format

MGS works professionally providing O

COUNSELLING O THERAPY O MEDIATION

MGS works with relationships and other life experiences

MGS is confidential, experienced and free Contact Major Jorgen Booth and the MGS team Tel 07711 148538 or email mgscounselling@yahoo.com (Based in Worthing – MGS works throughout the UK)

Now gather round – as quick as you can.

Let’s go-go-go with the Galilee Man! Sixteen stories from the life of Jesus with easy-to-perform rap commentary, plus three join-in poems A4 format – 42 pages - photocopiable - adaptable Available as a PDF – £8 or paper copy with spiral binding – £12 inc. postage and packing in UK from johnjcoutts@gmail.com Payment by PayPal, or cheque to RG Publishing, 138 Ladysneuk Road, Stirling FK9 5NR

Saturday 25 July – Saturday 1 August

SUMMER SCHOOL AT HOME Everyone is welcome to join us on the enabled (previously Salvation Army Fellowship of Endeavour) Facebook group for a series of activities during the week.

Salvationist 25 July 2020

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‘

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…

One night in a meeting the song ‘How Can I Better Serve Thee, Lord’ led me to make a full commitment

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

A touring caravan holiday in Norfolk or Wales.

PETER CURSLEY Long Eaton How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I had connections with the Army on my father’s side of the family, but had no personal interest. Through an invitation from a friend my wife began to attend and I eventually began attending too.

What made you want to become a soldier?

I was attending on a regular basis, becoming part of the corps fellowship and getting more involved with the young people’s club, Self-Denial appeal and other corps activities. One night in a meeting the song ‘How Can I Better Serve Thee, Lord’ (SASB 646) led me to make a full commitment.

What did you do before retirement?

I was a motor mechanic and technician. I loved having a new challenge every day and meeting and helping new customers.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would like there to be more street ministry and a return to open-air meetings, where I feel we could encourage and help more people to know Jesus.

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

Lance Corporal Jones in Dad’s Army.

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

Winston Churchill. He was a strong leader with the determination of a bulldog.

If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be?

Think happy and you will be happy.

Trouble no one.

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

Archery.

’

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

Simon of Cyrene, who was forced to carry Jesus’ cross. I would ask him if he later realised who Jesus was.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘I’ll Go In The Strength Of The Lord’ (SASB 959).

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

The suffering caused by pointless wars.

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

General Eva Burrows – to be close to a person who radiated so much Christian love and understanding.

What is your favourite meal?

A Sunday roast.

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

A gadget that does the ironing in the same way the washing machine does the laundry.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

Psalm 46:10: ‘Be still, and know that I am God.’

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

The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan.

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

Elizabethan Serenade by Ronald Binge, written in 1951.

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

‘Onward Christian Soldiers’ played by Jon Schmidt on the piano.

What do you do in your spare time?

I have many y hobbies: classic vehicles, modelaircraft, steam locomotives and mo making.

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

Wealth will not buy you health and happiness.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My wife’s love for me.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I have been selling Army papers now for more than 15 years, as well as being a bandsman and songster.