THE word ‘compassion’ comes from the Latin compati, which when broken down into its component parts comes from ‘com’ – meaning ‘with’ – and ‘pati’ – meaning ‘bear’. Compassion is a shared experience, to bear with the suffering of another. It is a connection. It goes beyond a feeling of empathy and becomes a desire and motivation to act in order to alleviate that suffering. Compassion is a powerful force for positive change.
Compassion is one of this territory’s six values. It sits squarely within the Army’s DNA. Compassion is the gospel with its sleeves rolled up.
When God speaks to Moses on Mount Sinai, his first description of himself is ‘compassionate and gracious’ (Exodus 34:6). Right from the start, God declares his intention to bear with us. The name Emmanuel means ‘God with us’. We serve a relational God: he wants to be in relationship with us and he wants us to be in relationship with others, bearing with them in their sufferings as he bears with us in ours.
In this week’s issue, we look at where compassion is being shown around the territory. Who are you bearing with?
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor
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EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
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Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips
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In or out?
As the 2025 Wimbledon Championships begin, Ivan Radford asks what your game currently looks like
WHETHER you’re in it for the strawberries or the smash volleys, you’ll probably be joining me and millions of others watching Wimbledon when it begins on Monday (30 June).
In the 2025 tennis tournament, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner will be hoping to pip each other and Novak Djokovic –not to mention breakout Brit star Jack Draper – to the men’s singles prize. In the women’s singles tournament, French Open victor Coco Gauff will be looking to hold her winning streak, despite competition from fellow French Open finalist Aryna Sabalenka.
Whoever the Grand Slam champs are, Wimbledon remains one of the world’s most popular sporting events. That enduring appeal stems not only from SW19’s prestigious grass courts, but also from the unique nature of tennis as a sport. While most other major sporting contests are team games, tennis – in the singles competition, at least – is a solo endeavour: a player is solely responsible for how they perform.
On a televised stage before a hushed audience, that pressure can be even more intense and isolating. Anyone who’s lost their cool after missing a first serve in their local park, while someone happens to be walking past, will know that sinking feeling of disappointment and self-blame. They might even have thrown down their racket in anger – apologies from teenage me to my older brother for that one.
As Christians, we have a similar responsibility in our spiritual lives.
We are each called by name to follow Jesus (see John 10:1–16). That individual calling means we are responsible for our response: nobody else can follow Jesus on our behalf.
In Luke 9:23, Jesus says: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’ It is an intentional, personal choice to follow Jesus, and it is an intentional, personal choice to continue following him, to pray, to study the Bible – we have to keep seeking him first, before anything else. In John 15:4, Jesus reminds us: ‘Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself.’
While it is our responsibility to be active and sincere in our discipleship, the good news is we have the Holy Spirit to help us. Through his Spirit, Jesus works in us, with us and through us to transform us into who we are called to be. He is the ultimate coach, who – unlike the coaches with players under the Centre Court floodlights – communicates with us directly. The Holy Spirit whispers, nudges, guides and intercedes for us, searching our hearts and knowing our faults. While each of us must persevere in taking up our cross, the Holy Spirit gives us strength that will be sufficient for the point at hand. Our discipleship begins with our response to Jesus’ invitation, but it is not our strength (see Zechariah 4:6) or wisdom (see James 1:5) that earns us the victory – it is by his power and grace (see 2 Timothy 2:1).
The even better news? While nobody
Reflect and respond
What do your match stats currently look like? Are you still playing with intent? Have you dropped the ball?
Read Galatians 5:22 and 23. Is the fruit of the Spirit currently being produced in your life?
Pray for strength, wisdom, grace and peace to play your next point.
else can take up our cross for us, we are not called to do it alone. We are called into relationship with Jesus and also each other. Our callings are unique, and cannot be compared, but they are intertwined, as we grow together in the body of Christ. Jesus is with us not just through his Spirit but through our fellow believers, who are on the court with us, cheering us on and helping us to keep within the lines.
But to be in the game, you have to pick up your racket and not throw it down each time you hit the net. Jesus is always there, ready to forgive and empower you. It’s advantage you – but nobody else can take that second serve.
IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist
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EXPL A INED
Fl a g /flag/ ■ n.
CATHERINE and William Booth designed the Salvation Army flag in 1878. The design is predominantly red, surrounded by a thick blue border. In the centre is a yellow eight-pointed star and the text ‘Blood & Fire’.
The blue represents the purity of God. The red stands for atonement, pointing to the blood of Jesus Christ who died to save people. The yellow symbolises the light and fire of the Holy Spirit. ‘Blood & Fire’ is an early Army motto that also refers to the blood of Christ and the fire of the Spirit.
The International Heritage Centre explains that, in the 1880s, many corps used flags in their processions. William Booth saw the need for one standard design. As he and Catherine travelled, they would present each corps with their own flag.
Early flags had a sun in their centre, which was replaced by a star in 1882. The number of points on the star has varied from time to time, but no significance has been attached to this.
Today, the flag is often referred to as ‘the colours’. Some corps may have additional flags for specific sections or groups, such as the songsters, band or young people. A corps may have a colour sergeant or flag bearer, a member who has taken on the formal duty of being responsible for the care and handling of the flag on special occasions.
These important life moments can include a child’s dedication to God, an adherent, soldier or junior soldier commitment ceremony, and weddings and funerals. The Godly Play session about the flag reminds us: ‘As we gather under the flag, and make each of our own brave and important steps, we come together in God, with God and for God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.’
• Learn more about The Salvation Army’s identity at salvationist.org.uk/ our-mission
Jo (Wrexham) thanks God for his grace, peace and compassion
IFIRST began attending The Salvation Army in Wrexham about three years ago. I believe God had been leading me there for some time, so when I finally arrived it was like coming home. I have made so many lifelong friends here and it has been a real sanctuary for me during tough times.
As a child, I attended a church school and have lots of happy memories singing in the choir at Christmas, listening attentively to the parables and drawing the best picture of Jesus (in my opinion). I remember having an irrepressible sense of God in my life.
It was during my teenage years that I first recall the now-familiar tug away from God. I easily got lost in the world with other things grabbing my attention. Relationship problems, insecurity, materialism, greed, jealousy and needing to fit in.
I quickly lost all sense of self and who I
belonged to and, by my late twenties, I became alcohol dependent – a quick fix for managing my own problems.
When I arrived at the rehabilitation centre, I woke up to sunshine that morning and realised that God had answered my prayers. In this moment I felt the peace that passes all understanding, despite nothing being solved or fixed. I knew I had finally surrendered. As I have come to understand with time, life is a constant series of challenges that we can keep hold of and try to resolve on our own, or we can surrender each and every one to him.
When I look back on my life, I see all the incredible ways that God has been working in my life. I could not have strayed further from the path yet, by his grace, I am safe and protected. I have many friends, young and old, I work in a hospital as a qualified nurse and I am in a stable Christian relationship. When I attend church on Sundays, I listen attentively to our corps leaders, Captains Claire and Del Durrant, and continue to apply the Bible teachings to my life.
I believe all challenges we experience in life are as real today as they were then, because God knows us in all our humanness. Faith and trust in God did not come easily to me – I have stumbled so many times and been overwhelmed with fear. God does not promise to fix everything, especially in the ways we would like! I believe God meets us where we are at and sometimes that is broken and messy. If God had not met me here in the reality of my existence, I would never have been able to return home. By his grace, I have been saved.
Have you got a testimony to share? Get in touch at
More than words
Major Sarah King (William Booth College) reviews Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the Choices They Made by Clare Hayns
UNVEILED is a beautiful, accessible and at times humorous devotional book. The 40 women depicted include well-known women of the Old Testament such as Sarah, Miriam and Ruth. In addition, the reader is introduced to lesser-known figures, such as Rizpah, Shiphrah, Puah and – my personal favourites – Jael and the daughters of Zelophehad.
The book is ordered around themes such as motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and #ThemToo. Within these themes, different stories are told, with each devotion following the format of picture, synopsis, reflection and prayer.
Hayns brings the Bible stories to life, helping readers to see themselves in the
women’s lives and challenges. In doing so, she articulates some of the hard questions that arise when we read stories from ancient cultures about how women were treated and mistreated. She is quick to point out, however, that plenty of Old Testament women used the agency they had to make a difference to their families and communities.
These reflections helped me make real connections between then and now. Some of Hayns’s comments made me slightly uncomfortable, and it felt at times as if she was transposing 21st-century values to ancient cultures that worked in very different ways to ours. However, I valued this sense of discomfort, which made me question assumptions and
Practical and pastoral
think about how and why I think differently.
In the main, though, I found the reflections to be beneficial, and it was really good to be reminded of lesserknown women of the Old Testament.
Part of the beauty of this book are the illustrations by Hayns’s son, Micah, who creatively portrays the subjects. The illustrations help the reader imagine the women as real people, rather than just words on a page. As such, the book contains food for thought and visual delight and could make for a great gift.
• Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the Choices They Made is published by Bible Reading Fellowship.
Marcus Luckett (William Booth College) reviews Gospel Conversations: Building Confidence through Christian Apologetics by Phil Layton
MAJOR Phil Layton sets out to give Christians the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations about faith. Recognising that apologetics alone is not evangelism but a partner in the process, the book frames apologetics not as a battle to be won, but as a tool to clear the way. Layton begins with the concept of truth, grounding the reader in a clear understanding of why truth matters. This is an important consideration, especially in a time when we hear so much about alternative facts and the post-truth age.
Each subsequent chapter opens with a scenario that introduces a central question and aim. The chapters end with ‘putting it together’ sections
that help consolidate the learning. Layton then offers memory aids and mnemonics to help the reader recall key points during conversations.
What makes this book especially useful for Salvationists is its focus on real-life engagement. Layton doesn’t shy away from difficult questions around suffering and evil. And he does not dismiss the questions with glib answers. Rather, Layton models humility, insisting we must first respond as humans to other humans.
The logical structure of his arguments is clear, but not cold. He scaffolds thinking in a way that builds understanding without overwhelming. He’s generous with references, providing a well-rounded view of Christian thought,
and the resource list details books, videos and websites to explore the topics in further depth.
Importantly, Layton reminds us that apologetics can be a tool for our own growth and formation. Indeed, Layton ends the book with how apologetics winds itself into his own testimony.
Gospel Conversations is a practical and pastoral resource. It will whet the appetite for deeper study but, more importantly, it will help provide the confidence Salvationists need to speak the truth with gentleness and grace in a world that needs both.
• Gospel Conversations: Building Confidence through Christian Apologetics is published by Salvation Books.
Blessed are the meek
Captain Daniel Holland seeks what it means to be meek
MATTHEW 5:5
THE Beatitudes are a series of blessings that Jesus proclaimed at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount. These statements challenge worldly assumptions about success, power and happiness, presenting instead a vision of life in God’s Kingdom that can speak to us individually as Christians and corporately as The Salvation Army. ‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the Earth’ (Matthew 5:5) may seem illogical. The world – and indeed the Church – often rewards those who are dominant, aggressive and powerful. Yet, Jesus declares that the meek are those who will receive the Earth as their inheritance. This verse invites us to reconsider our understanding of strength, humility and God’s promises. Let us reflect on what it means to be meek, why meekness is a mark of a Holy Spirit-filled life and how this promise of inheritance aligns with God’s Kingdom.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Think about a time when you were in a situation where gentleness or humility seemed like weakness.
How did that experience shape your understanding of strength?
The word ‘blessed’ – translated from the Greek makarios – conveys more than just happiness. It refers to a deep, spiritual joy that comes from God’s favour. This joy is based not on personal circumstances but on living in orientation with God’s purposes. Jesus is not simply saying that meek people will feel good; he is declaring that they’re already in a position of divine blessing.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How does viewing ‘blessing’ as a state of being, rather than as a reward, change your understanding of what it means to be blessed?
In general usage, ‘meekness’ is often misunderstood as weakness, passivity or lack of confidence. The biblical understanding of meekness, however, is very different. The Greek word for ‘meek’ – praus – describes strength under control, like a tamed wild animal. Meekness is not about being powerless but about choosing to submit one’s power to God.
In Numbers 12:3, Moses is described as a ‘very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the Earth’. Yet Moses was not weak. Overcoming initial reluctance, he confronted the powerful Pharaoh, pleading for the release of his captive compatriots. He then led Israel out of Egypt, confronted criticism of his leadership from fellow Israelites and interceded for his people. Moses’ strength came from his reliance on God rather than his own abilities.
Similarly, Jesus describes himself as ‘gentle and humble in heart’ (Matthew 11:29), yet he’s regarded as one of the most powerful figures in history. Paul sees Jesus’ meekness in his willingness to submit to God’s will and his being ‘obedient to death – even death on a cross’ (Philippians 2:8).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How does Jesus’ example of meekness challenge your cultural ideas about strength and success?
The phrase ‘inherit the Earth’ echoes Psalm 37:11: ‘But the meek will inherit
the land and enjoy peace and prosperity.’ In the Old Testament, inheritance was deeply connected to the divine provision of Israel as the Promised Land. The land itself was regarded as a tangible sign of God’s blessing and faithfulness. However, in this Beatitude, Jesus expands this promise beyond physical land to include the fullness of God’s Kingdom. Meekness prepares us to receive God’s inheritance because it acknowledges that all we have comes from God. Proud people fight for control. Meek people trust that God’s provision is enough. Revelation 21:1 speaks of ‘a new Heaven and a new Earth’, where God will dwell with his people. Those who embrace the way of Jesus will ultimately receive this renewed creation as their inheritance.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How does trusting in God’s provision free you from the need to fight for power or control?
The Holy Spirit regenerates and empowers us to live as God intends. Meekness is not something we develop on our own – it’s part of the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22 and 23). The Holy Spirit can transform our hearts, enabling us to respond with grace in situations where we might otherwise react in anger or defensiveness.
Meekness allows us to stand firm in faith while responding to others with gentleness and love (see 1 Peter 3:15). In Acts 4:13, Peter and John boldly witness to the resurrected Jesus. Yet, while doing so, they remain humble. Their confidence is not in their own strength but in the power of the Spirit working through them.
meek
meek
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Where in your life do you need the Holy Spirit’s help to respond with meekness instead of defensiveness?
Being meek is challenging. It means choosing to listen rather than insisting on being heard. It means responding with love even when treated unfairly. It means trusting God’s justice instead of seeking revenge.
Meekness is particularly powerful in leadership and relationships. A meek leader does not dominate but serves (see Mark 10:42–45). A meek friend does not demand their way but values others (see Philippians 2:3 and 4). A meek follower of Jesus does not force their faith on others but witnesses with grace (see Colossians 4:6).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Think of a practical way you can practise meekness in your interactions this week.
Jesus’ words challenge us to embrace a different way of living. The meek are not overlooked or forgotten in God’s Kingdom – they are blessed, and their inheritance is secure. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live with the quiet strength that comes from trusting in God’s promises.
Let us seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit so that our lives reflect the meekness of Jesus. By doing so, we will find that we will lack nothing because we already belong to the creator, preserver and governor of all things.
CAPTAIN DANIEL HOLLAND Service Manager Westminster Homelessness Project
A shortened version of Prayer Matters will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist in 2025. To read the full, unedited booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 28 JUNE: CARE FOR CREATION – MULCH
Mulch helps to keep weeds down and store water through the driest parts of the year so plants stay hydrated. Ponder what helps you stay refreshed and weed free in your Christian life. Are there rhythms, routines, resources or relationships that are particularly helpful when life feels dry? by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
SUNDAY 29 JUNE: SABBATH PRAYER – THE FATHER WHO PROVIDES
Father God, thank you for all the good gifts you give. You don’t always give us what we want, but you do always give us what we need. We pray for wisdom in giving to those in our lives. Help us to learn from you. by
Karen Findlay (Wellingborough)
MONDAY 30 JUNE: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – BOLDNESS IN PRAYER
Lord, thank you that prayer brings me into your presence through your Holy Spirit. I often come in weakness, and yet you fill me, empower me and encourage me to be bold and speak of your love and power. I commit to pray for those I know who don’t know you yet. May they come to know you. by Major Jill Miller
TUESDAY 1 JULY: SERVING AND CARING – NORTH SCOTLAND DIVISION
Thank God for cadets joining us for the summer and for new lieutenants preparing for their first appointments. In these new beginnings, ask God for guidance and direction in shaping the future ministry in the places where they will serve, allowing the message of Jesus Christ to be brought into those communities. by Major Gillian Jackson (Divisional Commander)
WEDNESDAY 2 JULY: GROWING IN FAITH – IRELAND DIVISION
Our young people’s work is going through a period of significant transition. We thank God for our young people and are grateful for local and divisional youth teams, who are committed to journeying with them as they discover more of Jesus. Pray God will encourage and build up our young people and pray for wisdom for our youth leaders. by Captain Jonathan Rouffet (Divisional Leader)
THURSDAY 3 JULY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – INDIA NORTHERN TERRITORY
Ask God’s blessing on all those who worship and serve in the corps and centres across this vast area. Pray particularly for those whose families were affected by the partition of India almost 80 years ago. Pray that God will use the Army to bring healing and hope where the wounds are still felt. Pray God’s blessing on the territorial leadership team of Colonels Chawnghlut Vanlalfela and Khupchawng Ropari and Lieut-Colonels Andrews and Sunita Christian. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 4 JULY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – GENDER IDENTITY
Thank you for the beauty of diversity in creation, including human beings. We pray for The Salvation Army to be a welcoming and safe space for transgender people. May every person be accepted as your beloved child. Grant us strength to speak out against prejudice and to foster understanding. by
Lieut-Colonel
Jayne Roberts
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?
Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.
Valuing others
Major Lynne Shaw considers how gratitude can lead us to compassion
HAVE you ever thought about all the processes involved in you being able to read something online or in print? WordPress, Reddit and Substack are all examples of digital spaces where people are able to write for others to read and share their opinions, learning and lives. For that to happen, we need manufacturers of tablets, smartphones and laptops. We need providers of electricity, people who build transport that gets people to work, people who staff supermarkets that stock the food we need to live, people who provide sanitation and clean water… The list goes on!
Every single one of those people has played a part in you being able to have the option of reading somebody else’s words across the internet. Even for you to read this article, so much has gone on behind the scenes just to make it possible.
It’s easy to take all this for granted, but when we start paying attention to all the people who are involved in making sure we can do certain things, it can prompt us to a new and fresh sense of gratitude.
Perhaps you prefer to think about the wrapped, sliced loaf of bread that forms your sandwiches or toast. How many
people have been involved in making that possible? The people who grow the wheat and other ingredients, the people who mill the flour, the people who make the machinery to mill the flour, the people who maintain the machinery, the people who make and print the wrappers, and so on.
When you pay attention to how many people you probably take for granted every day, it brings you up short. Once you become more aware of what everything is truly worth, it can grow your gratitude into compassion – valuing the contribution of others, seeing beyond what’s in front of you to all the people who helped it get there.
I have been taking others for granted, all the work that they have done so that I can have a loaf of bread, so that I can have a smartphone in my hand. The people who make it possible for me to read other people’s words or see family photographs from across half the globe. When I practise gratitude, however, suddenly I feel connected to these people and my God-given instinct is to feel compassion for them. It’s impossible to imagine every single person’s life or whether I can do anything for each of them, but I do need to have a change
of attitude within myself. It’s not gratitude about whether I’ve got less or more than anyone else, but gratitude that leads me to look after my stuff, the planet and other people, to be grateful for all that I have right now.
This gratitude-led compassion prompts me to be more mindful of the person at the till ringing up all my purchases, or of the person who’s just delivered something to my door. My profound gratitude reminds me to feel for others and show them love and grace. It’s a humbling – not humiliating –process to remember that my life owes so much to so many.
It causes me to ask two questions: What am I giving back? And how can I honour and support other people better?
Compassion in action, as a fruit of gratitude, leads me to be a better steward, to be more aware of how my choices affect others, and to do better at treating everyone I meet as valuable.
MAJOR LYNNE SHAW Editorial Assistant Publishing Department
Freed into fellowship
George Tanton explores how The Welcome Directory is equipping church communities to welcome prison leavers
‘MANY people find faith in prison, while others rekindle their faith,’ says Emily Green, project manager at The Welcome Directory. ‘But when it gets to the point of release, only about one in five people choose to connect with their faith beyond the gates.’
The Welcome Directory is a multi‑faith organisation that equips faith communities, including The Salvation Army, on how to reintegrate prison leavers safely. Prison leavers can face numerous obstacles upon rejoining society, including finding steady employment and accommodation or dealing with trauma and addiction. Entering places of worship can also be challenging for prison leavers, as they carry with them public stigma and the societal isolation it can impose.
“ We want to do our bit and change what people read and hear about prison leavers. ”
Established almost nine years ago, The Welcome Directory is seeking to change the public narrative around prison leavers, encouraging faith communities to be places of non‑judgemental acceptance and see the human potential in all prison leavers to flourish in faith.
‘Stigma exists in society as a whole,’ Emily states. ‘We don’t want to admit it, but it probably exists in our individual communities as well. It may take decades to shift that narrative, but we want to do our bit and change what people read and hear about prison leavers.’
The Welcome Directory maintains a list of faith communities who are welcoming as well as safe. Four corps – Wrexham, Swindon Gorse Hill, Staines and Falmouth Temple – are currently
registered, with Wrexham and Staines working closely with local prisons.
For Emily, the Army is an ideal partner organisation: ‘The Army’s mission to reach those on the margins of society is very much aligned with what we’re striving to achieve. We really respect the Movement’s work and are very happy for our positive collaboration to continue.’
The Welcome Directory resource is available in each prison in England and Wales, as well as at approved premises. The organisation doesn’t make referrals, but does work closely with prison chaplaincy teams. Prison chaplains use The Welcome Directory to help facilitate connections between someone about to leave prison and a welcoming faith community.
The Welcome Directory also works with leaders and members of faith communities – churches, temples, synagogues or mosques – to raise awareness of prison leavers’ needs. For faith communities considering welcoming prison leavers, The Welcome Directory’s online Prison Awareness Course covers issues of safeguarding, including principles as well as processes for different categories of risk. Probation places prison leavers into high, medium and low risk categories.
‘High risk would be crimes of a sexual nature, acts of terrorism and other violent acts, and are managed under Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements,’ Emily explains. ‘While we are asking places of worship to be welcoming to all, we explain the processes whereby faith communities can ensure their congregations are safe. To serve those on the fringes of society, and those who are vulnerable, is always going to involve an element of risk. However, it can be done safely and it can be done well.’
Places of worship must have well‑integrated safeguarding policies in place before they register, especially with regards to vulnerable adults or children in their congregations. Other requirements include permission from the church leader, prior experience or
taking part in the Prison Awareness Course, and having a specified point of contact in the church.
The Welcome Directory’s success is shown by its astonishing statistics. Its 2024 report states that 1,446 connections were made by prison chaplains between prison leavers and registered faith communities in one year alone. Three hundred prison leavers were supported directly by registered faith communities, and 63 per cent of the registered faith communities reported the prison leavers had not reoffended.
‘Being part of a community made up of different people, who share a common faith and with opportunity to belong is powerful,’ notes Emily. ‘Whether helping out at a food bank or putting the chairs out for a Sunday service, it all supports the research that fellowship essentially desists individuals from crime.’
• Find out more about The Welcome Directory at welcomedirectory.org.uk
GEORGE TANTON Editorial Assistant Salvationist
Compassionate conversations
Matt Perkins talks about the impact of An Introduction to Pastorally Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People
IN summer 2021, The Salvation Army launched a training resource to help equip youth workers to work with LGBTQ+ young people. Statistics show that LGBTQ+ people – people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning) and more – are at higher risk of experiencing poor mental health and hate crimes. The training resource provides people with a safe space to talk about LGBTQ+ issues, promoting respect and addressing prejudice.
Matt Perkins (Children and Youth Department) talks about the impact of the training so far and how it is being shared more widely within the Church:
How did the resource come about?
It started with a corps leader who wanted to be more confident in having conversations with young people within their corps who identified as LGBTQ+. We felt the response needed to be pastoral and one of love – helping people to understand what it might be like to be an LGBTQ+ teen in the Church, and equipping them to have a conversation about it.
If people are afraid of saying the wrong thing, can saying nothing be just as harmful?
The fear about saying something wrong comes from a good place, but saying nothing can also be misinterpreted and be equally damaging.
That’s a hard space to be in – the training is about giving people confidence to have conversations.
Why does the training matter?
our churches safe spaces where we act with compassion and it’s only through conversation that we can start to learn and understand others. The way we think impacts how we behave, and how we behave affects other people. You can hear statistics about LGBTQ+ people, but they can just seem like numbers – when you listen to someone’s story, it can help you understand them and accept them for who they are as a person. Some people can find that difficult, but as followers of Jesus, it’s about trying to be Jesus to other people. We don’t know who’s going to walk through our doors: whether it’s someone turning up for a meeting, for a food bank or for information, we need to equip ourselves in different areas of ministry to be able to respond to each person in an appropriate, compassionate way.
Compassion is one of the territory’s values. Is compassion partly about focusing on other people rather than our own views?
Absolutely. It’s about living with difference and still engaging with and loving each other. It’s like being members of the same family: we can have different views on politics, for example, but that doesn’t stop us loving and respecting each other. Whatever my views are, I need to act in a way that is gracious and loving and still be open to discovering and learning.
I T Y For more, visit salvationist.org. uk/our-values or scan the QR code. This article demonstrates the value of compassion.
We have a duty to make
How many people have taken part in the training?
Roughly over 1,500 people have taken part in the training so far. The training doesn’t dig into theology – it’s not a positional statement or stance – because whatever your theology, we are all called to love people. I think there’s
something in the training and the language it uses that disarms people who might come in with preconceptions, and the elements of the training are very equipping. It includes terminology, acronyms, stories and testimonies, plus FAQs and time for people to think about how they feel.
What impact has the training had so far?
Initially, it was a resource to equip youth workers, but congregations quickly became interested as well. I think that’s because we all need to be able to have conversations about these topics. That includes helping and equipping parents who are supporting children who are LGBTQ+.
The materials are also being translated into other languages and have been used in other countries, such as Switzerland and New Zealand. In the next few months, we are also rolling it out for other denominations. In November, I was at the National Youth Ministry Weekend – an ecumenical event organised by Youthscape – and led the training with people from other churches and there is interest in using it. Cabinet has agreed that we can roll this out across the wider Church, and it’s great that the Children and Youth Department are having a voice in this area.
• For more information about An Introduction to Pastorally Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People, visit tsa.link/ lgbtq-pastoral-support
‘It’s
about the journey’
Territorial Chaplaincy Officer Major Ali Stone (East of England, London and South East) talks about contemporary chaplaincy
What is a chaplain?
A chaplain is a recognised spiritual leader who comes alongside people, sharing their space and journeying with them. Chaplains are there for staff and management, as well as for service users, and they build relationships within the team. The Army in this territory no longer has sufficient officers to appoint them solely as chaplains, so more corps officers are finding that their role includes not only chaplaincy to their fellowship and community, but additional responsibilities to places such as care homes, hospitals, town centres, prisons, retail, schools, airports, military services and other groups.
What qualities should a chaplain have?
Being a people person and a good listener, empathy, emotional resilience, not wanting to be a fixer. Chaplains accept that you may not ever be able
to get to that fixing point – it’s about the journey rather than getting to a specific destination.
What do people seek most from chaplains?
A safe space, someone who has time, someone who keeps showing up for them when others have let them down. The importance of integrity, of doing something that you say you’ll do. The reliability, the listening, the trust and the authenticity. God made us the way we are for a reason, and we must be our true selves. If we try to be something we’re not, people will see through that.
How do chaplains support people?
It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, it’s very much a person-centred approach. It could be as simple as sitting with somebody living with dementia and having that same conversation on a loop. Within Prison Ministries or Homelessness Services, it might be more of a practical thing, such as linking them to the Family Tracing Department or Open Learning, with a view to rehabilitation and moving forward.
It’s about being available, present and relative, and having the tools to respond to people’s concerns and worries, and being honest if it’s not something you have encountered or experienced before.
What are the modern blessings and challenges of chaplaincy?
The joy of joining with somebody and seeing them flourish, seeing them move on to maintain independent living, seeing them come into a relationship with God. It’s journeying and building that trust, building those relationships to different depths with different service users. When you can meet a need that might seem inconsequential to anyone else, but means the world to that person.
One challenge is the frustration of seeing a
person progress, but then the system fails them for whatever reason. When you’ve journeyed with someone to a point, but then something happens and they run back to what they know, to what they feel is safe, because the way forward is either scary or tough.
How are chaplains supported and how does your role fit into that?
The Army’s team of territorial chaplaincy officers are there to support our chaplains, as are their divisional headquarters and the Army’s Wellbeing Department. Chaplains are encouraged to have a support network that is a safe space where they can talk.
From my role’s perspective, every year I have four in-depth pastoral conversations with the chaplains. Ideally, the relationship between a chaplain and their line manager is good enough that they can call if they need to. Every two years there’s a chaplaincy conference where all designated chaplains across the Army’s services, plus those in other expressions of chaplaincy, get together.
What can we pray for our chaplains across the territory?
Pray for protection and resilience, that they don’t get compassion fatigue. Pray for awareness of the vicarious trauma they experience and recognition that they need to look after themselves and that it’s essential to factor that into their ministry to effectively serve others.
John 10:10 says: ‘I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]’ (Amplified Bible). In life we can experience awful things, but Jesus died for us that we might have life to the full. This is for everyone and, as chaplains, we’re here to come alongside someone and be a bridge to that – we can share some of that joy and hold hope for someone.
• For a full list of the territory’s chaplaincy officers and for more information about the Chaplaincy Department, visit salvationist.org.uk/chaplaincy
It’s so much more than just being nice
Trauma-Informed Practice Lead
Dawn Richardson (THQ) chats with Stevie Hope about the territory’s trauma-informed future
You recently became the territory’s first ever TraumaInformed Practice Lead. Why did you apply for the role? I’ve always had an interest in how our experiences of challenge and adversity impact our behaviours and relationships. I’ve been doing this kind of work for a long time and I’m always conscious that we –as The Salvation Army – are already doing amazing work, but it could always be better. What if things were different? How might that look and feel for stakeholders, the people we serve, members, frontline staff and senior leadership? What would it look like if we really, genuinely understood each other with a deeper appreciation of our individual traumas?
What do we mean by trauma in this context?
The majority of us are impacted by traumatic experiences – toxic stress, adversity, life challenges. This isn’t a small minority of people we’re talking about.
What does trauma-informed practice look like?
It’s so much more than just being nice. It’s taking an intentional stance of recognising when people are challenged by traumatic experiences. It’s about asking how those experiences impact us and show up in our lives. Then we need to ensure that our responses, our policies and our communications create an environment of safety. There’s also an emphasis on preventing retraumatisation.
Why is being trauma-informed important?
We want everyone to feel seen, heard, valued, affirmed and able to be the best version of themselves – life in all its fullness!
Does the Army have a history of trauma-informed practice?
We do lots of new things in the Army and there are lots of new initiatives and buzzwords that come into play, but this isn’t new – it ties in with our values and mission priorities. We’ve made really great strides providing traumainformed care to our service users. But this is a journey: it’s not something that’s ever going to be completed. There was always a question for me around whether others in the Army are also implementing and experiencing these trauma-informed approaches.
What’s first on your to-do list?
My secondment to this role is only for two years, so we have a lot to achieve in that time – my hope is that people will start to feel some of this pretty soon! One of the first things we’re doing is connecting with people and building relationships. There’s so much out there. People are doing brilliant traumainformed work and fabulous stuff is happening. We’ll be trying to get a real scope of what’s out there. We want to reach out and hear people’s voices. I’m more than happy for anybody to reach out to me with questions and
suggestions. The more voices we hear, the better! My hope is that my role is going to be more people work than paperwork. This will all inform a new traumainformed strategy for the territory.
Is this strategy for members and employees too?
Absolutely! This role is sitting in the Human Resources Department and Personnel Service because it’s about people. It’s not just about frontline service delivery – it’s for employees, members, officers, leadership, for all people at all levels across the organisation.
What can people look out for?
We’re going to produce some easy guidance for people who want to know more about trauma-informed practice. There will also eventually be surveys and focus groups and things like that – it’s early days but watch this space!
• You can share your thoughts with Dawn by emailing dawn.richardson@ salvationarmy.org.uk
STEVIE HOPE Assistant Editor Salvationist
ANNIVERSARY
EXMOUTH In January, the corps embarked upon 140 days of prayer to mark 140 years of mission and ministry. On Saturday afternoon, the corps held an afternoon tea and celebrated with the community, including Divisional Leaders Majors Gillian and Paul Billard and other church leaders, supported by the band. Sunday included a bring-andshare lunch and an anniversary cake, cut by youngest member Megan Kenny and number one on the roll Julia Chapple (pictured). The weekend’s leaders were Majors Hilary and Stephen Naylor, whose ministry was a huge encouragement. Major Stephen spoke on Romans 12:9–15. Exmouth Museum and Heritage Centre dedicated space for an exhibition and Exmouth in Bloom planted a floral display in Salvation Army colours. – JH
COMMUNITY
LUTON The corps has partnered Luton Hygiene Bank, the Courtney Foundation and Asda to launch a Baby Bank. It will provide expectant and new parents struggling with the cost of living crisis with essential items, such as nappies, toiletries and newborn care packs. The initiative came following a request from health visitors, social prescribers and social workers, after the Christmas present appeal highlighted the extent of need among Luton households. – AR
ECUMENICAL
HIGH LEIGH CONFERENCE CENTRE Territorial Ecumenical Officer Major Paul Robinson attended an Enabling Group of Churches Together in England meeting to celebrate the 1,700th anniversary of the first ecumenical council – the Council of Nicaea. The different denominations united to pray for God’s blessing on Pope Leo XIV. Father Michael Lambros of the Coptic Orthodox Church spoke of the Egyptian influence on the Council of Nicaea and its continuing ministry, as it witnesses against 21st-century persecution. Delegates were reminded they had so much in common as the Church works together to reveal to the world the Body of Christ. – PR
MUSIC
CITADEL One way or another, all the men participated in a Father’s Day service led by Peter France. Making their debut, the male voice choir sang ‘Just the Same Today’ and ‘Wide as the Ocean’, accompanied by the all-female brass band. The verdict was a resounding 10 out of 10! – SL
OUTREACH
GUERNSEY Regent Hall Band brought the gospel message in its recent visit to the island. The people in St Peter Port town centre stopped to watch the band’s march and open-air meeting, before an evening concert at the hall. Sunday morning started with a march of witness, and a Sunday afternoon concert at Candie Gardens filled 200 seats. The whole weekend was a blessing to all who met the band, and the music and the truths allowed praise and worship to God to shine. – AD-C
ANNIVERSARY
RUTHERGLEN The songsters celebrated 100 years of ministry with past and present members. An appreciative congregation enjoyed songs old and modern under guest leader Bandmaster Paul Drury (Bo’ness), whose father and grandfather were previous songster leaders. Sisters Lynda Orr and Elizabeth Ramsay brought a vocal duet. – DM
EXMOUTH As part of the corps 140th anniversary celebrations, 65 people shared afternoon tea and were entertained by the a cappella group Champagne Cornwall Chorus. It was a wonderful afternoon of joy and encouragement as the congregation listened to modern tunes and romantic ballads, while donating £260 towards corps community work. – JH
BATH
INTERNATIONAL
Chief of the Staff visits for Commissioners’ Conference
USA
CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill, International Secretary for Business Administration Commissioner Garth Niemand (IHQ) and Reliance Bank CEO Nikki Fenton visited the Army’s USA National Headquarters (NHQ) in Alexandria, Virginia, for the Commissioners’ Conference. Commissioner Edward shared how the international partnership with the USA territories contributes to the global work of The Salvation Army and discussed shared operational challenges.
The conference is attended by all active commissioners serving at NHQ and in the four USA territories. The group meets three times a year to discuss matters of national importance and common concern.
‘The international Salvation Army is grateful for the expertise, innovation, people and resources provided by the USA territories to the world,’ Commissioner Edward concluded. – AR
FUNDRAISING
BELFAST TEMPLE A strawberry tea raised funds to continue the Army’s much needed work at Strawberry Field, which supports young adults with learning difficulties into paid work. Pictured are the event staff: corps leader Major Cindy Stanford, Hazel Murphy, Iris Corry, Cheryl Murray, Pamela Neill and Temra Neill. – PN
DERBY SOUTH An afternoon cream tea raised £80 for the Big Connection. More than 20 people attended, some to the building for the first time. Lots of food was consumed and great fellowship was shared. – DW
COMMUNITY
Southend United FC fan and Leigh-on-Sea Deputy Charity Shop Manager Mark Wilson engages the community with a shop window display in support of the club reaching the National League promotion final
SUNDERLAND MONKWEARMOUTH The Ukrainian community at the corps welcomed Sergii Kupriienko, a London-based immigration solicitor. The session was highly valuable, offering clear guidance on immigration options and answering key questions on visas, settlement and citizenship. It helped attendees better understand their legal rights and opportunities in the UK. With extensive experience, Sergii’s visit provided timely and practical support to the community. – OM
PENRITH The corps Nourished Project is a new drop-in programme supporting families through the cost of living crisis by working with supermarkets to distribute surplus food and household items. Corps leader Major Carole Donaldson said: ‘Allowing people to have control over what they choose gives a level of dignity.’ – AR
EVENT
LURGAN A Cameo garden party was a celebration of friends, frolics and food. People wore an assortment of fascinators and Nicola McKee organised a series of games. Traditional garden party food of cucumber and assorted sandwiches was prepared by corps leader Major Maureen Bain. – CB
ANNIVERSARY
GREENFORD Majors Christine and Stephen Perkins led the 90th corps anniversary. Number one on the roll Corps Secretary Marjorie Barrett read articles from the corps history book. In the afternoon, Harlesden Young People’s Band blessed and encouraged a full hall. Marjorie is pictured with Divisional Envoy Kath Davison cutting the cake. – KD
FUNDRAISING
ROYSTON Great-grandads Bob Woodcock, 71, and Melvyn Thomas, 72, completed a mammoth 11-day motorbike journey, raising £285 to support corps work with families and children and Barnsley Children’s Hospital. Starting in Royston, they drove to Land’s End, then to John o’ Groats, before returning home. – AR
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
BRIGHTON CONGRESS HALL The corps is appealing to the community to help launch a new play café, after learning of a need for a place to go for parents and carers with pre-school children. Two trial openings saw more than 100 people attend. Once funding is secured the café will offer a safe, inclusive environment for parents and carers to relax and children to enjoy engaging activities. – AR
WELLING Corps leader Captain Katy Shubotham shared the story of Zacchaeus at a local primary school. After, the children asked questions and shared feelings about the story. It was a wonderful opportunity to share with so many young people. – KS
COMMUNITY
STROOD A new community garden is growing food, building friendships and supporting wellbeing. The garden is at the front of building with a patch either side of the entrance, which splits the garden in two. One half will be turfed with a flower bed cut out while the other side will be an allotment to grow vegetables and fruit for the weekly lunch club and other people in the community. – AR
GOLDTHORPE The corps hosted a Calling Barnsley storytelling workshop. Participants celebrated all the incredible stories in the borough by contributing stories to the yellow pages project. – AS
ANNIVERSARY EVENT
BELFAST CITADEL
The theme for the 145th corps anniversary meeting was Firm Foundations. Divisional Leaders Captains Jonathan and Marion Rouffet led the meeting. They were assisted by Martin Huang – who plans to study engineering at university this year – in proving that it is wiser to build on rock than sand. – NM
WALES Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main led the division’s annual celebration, this year themed To Be Continued, calling everyone to move forward boldly. Worship was supported by Brecon Brass and the Carmarthen Worship Group. Ange Sampson (Abergavenny) testified, and Bandmaster Colin Sneade (Wrexham) spoke about the impact of Growing Leaders. ‘Joshua Rap’ was performed by the children and Shamiso Chaiteizwi (Newport Citadel) shared a song she composed while attending Territorial Youth Choir. More testimonies were shared by Jan Sutcliffe (Bargoed) and Craig Walsh (Wrexham). – KS
DUNSTABLE The Household Troops Band joined the 140th corps anniversary celebrations. They caused a stir marching through the town, with many Saturday shoppers stopping to watch. At the bandstand, a short music programme enabled corps members to chat with people. An evening festival included a tribute to Bandsman Seb Farrall (Coventry City), who was recently promoted to Glory. Sunday morning was led by former leaders of Dunstable, Majors Ann and David Radford. Sunday school children led a glory march with newly made percussion instruments. An afternoon festival featured varied music, and the band greatly encouraged the corps, who will long remember this special weekend. – RC
AIDAN and Lara Allen and Catherine and Lee Reynolds were welcomed as adherents by corps leader Territorial Envoy Stewart Madden. Aidan testified about how God is working in his life and how he met and married Lara and now they have three lovely girls. Catherine and Lee have been coming to the corps for a few years, along with their children and Catherine’s mum. – SM
SACRISTON
DAWN Witson was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Major Ann-Marie Johnson on Easter Day. After journeying with God and listening to his call, Dawn pledged her life to Christ’s mission with renewed commitment. Also pictured is Flag Bearer David Robinson. – A-MJ
WHAT DOES BEING A SOLDIER OR
ADHERENT MEAN?
Find out more about formalising your membership of The Salvation Army and the different ways in which you can make a spiritual commitment at salvationist.org.uk/ membership
MOREBLESSING, Joy, Jo and Kath were welcomed as adherents by corps leader Captain Claire Durrant. Each of them has a glorious testimony and is involved in various aspects of corps life, where they shine for Jesus in their own unique way. – CD
TRACEY Lloyd was welcomed as an adherent by Major Kevin Rand. Tracey thanked the corps for their support over the years, which have sometimes been difficult for Tracey. She has grown in her Christian faith and, with the support of the corps and her own resilience and hard work, she decided to become an adherent. – GJ
DEVONPORT MORICE TOWN
SUSAN Bailey and Sue Wilson were welcomed as adherents by corps leader Captain Andy Toby. It was a beautiful occasion filled with joy, prayer and thanksgiving as we celebrated together with their friends and church family. We are so thankful for the gifts they bring and the faith they share. – AT
RUGBY WREXHAM
TADLEY
Picture: Courtesy of Mark Fisher
BRADFORD IDLE
DIVISIONAL Envoy Billy Cowgill was honoured by the King for his Christian service and contribution to the community. He was one of 76 men and 76 women invited to Durham Cathedral on Maundy Thursday to receive Maundy Money as part of a tradition dating back to the 13th century. Billy, who has led the corps for 30 years, said: ‘It felt a real privilege and honour to receive thanks from our King, but all I do is in service of the King of kings, the Lord Jesus Christ. He gives me the strength and the help to do what I do.’ – AR
CORPS leader Major Andrew Jarrold’s retirement was recognised at a celebration event. Tributes were paid and Divisional Area Officer Major Graham Daniels spoke highly of his impact and legacy in the town. – TG
ON behalf of General Lyndon Buckingham, Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main presented Sir Boyd Tunnock with the Order of Distinguished Auxiliary Service in recognition of ‘committed professional, practical and financial support given generously to The Salvation Army in Scotland for over 30 years’. The order is one of The Salvation Army’s highest honours and marks its appreciation of service rendered by non-Salvationists. It is the first time in 70 years that the order has been bestowed upon a recipient in UK and Ireland Territory. – AR
MARGARET Watts was presented with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her faithful and loving service of 60 years as a songster. Margaret continues to sing as a songster and leads a singing and story time for the youngest ones here at the corps. Margaret is pictured with Songster Leader Heather Tyler. – CB
WORKSOP
TONY Cookson received his threeyear pin from Divisional Area Officer Major Martin Sayer. Tony has been volunteering at the corps charity shop for the past three years and helps on Wednesday evenings at the children’s Jaffa group with Jeanette and Pat. Well done, Tony! – AD
BELLSHILL
IPSWICH CITADEL
BRISTOL CITADEL
Accepted as candidates for officer training
JULIE HENDY, Wakefield
TERRITORIAL ENVOY LEE HIGHTON-NICHOLLS, Darlaston with Willenhall
JACOB SMITH, Dudley
TIMOTHY WATCH, Leicester West Awarded
RECRUITING SERGEANT PATRICIA BAKER , Clacton‑on‑Sea, awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community Dedicated to God
EVERLY ROSE HIRST, daughter of Young People’s Sergeant‑Major Bethany and Corps Sergeant Major Luke Hirst, at Castleford by Major Wayne Price
NATHAN TURNBULL , son of Andrew and Kelly Turnbull, at Shildon by Lieutenants Hannah and Stuart Turnbull
Long service
35 years
LIEUT-COLONEL KARIN RAMOS, Eastern Europe Territory
30 years
MAJOR ANGELA BAILEY, Addlestone
MAJOR GRAHAM BAILEY, Addlestone
MAJOR JENNIFER BARWISE, Dereham
MAJOR SANDRA COLLINS, Droitwich Spa
MAJOR LINDA CUNLIFFE , Bangor
MAJOR JAMES CUSSEN, Assistant Chaplain, Founders House Lifehouse, London
MAJOR KENNETH GARDNER , Grimsby and Yorkshire and Humber DHQ
MAJOR RICHARD GAUDION, Personnel Service, THQ
MAJOR ALISON HUDSON, Central and Southern Scotland DHQ
MAJOR IAIN HUDSON, Chaplain, Glasgow Airport
MAJOR GILLIAN JACKSON, North Scotland DHQ
MAJOR SARAH KING , William Booth College
MAJOR SHEILA LOMAN, Cardiff Grangetown
MAJOR CHRISTINE McCUTCHEON, Potton
MAJOR IAN MOUNTFORD, Chelmsford and Mission Service, THQ
MAJOR TRACEY MOUNTFORD, Chelmsford
MAJOR SHARON ROBINSON, Swindon Citadel
MAJOR JANET ROBSON, Central and Southern Scotland DHQ
MAJOR ANDREW SPIVEY, Mirfield and Yorkshire and Humber DHQ
MAJOR VALERIE SPIVEY, Mirfield
MAJOR RICHARD WELCH, Bexleyheath
MAJOR NINA WRIGHT, Belfast Citadel
MAJOR SIMON WRIGHT, Belfast Citadel
Wedding anniversaries
Golden (50 years)
MAJORS DAVID AND MARGARET BAILEY on 12 July
Promoted to Glory
SINGING COMPANY LEADER/ SONGSTER/ BANDSWOMAN SARAH BURCH, Chatteris
Bereaved
COMMISSIONER PATRICIA BIRD of her sister Rita Baldwin
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Thu 26 Jun – Mon 30 Jun Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory Fri 11 Jul Birmingham Conference and Events Centre (Spiritual Leaders’ Meeting)
Fri 11 Jul – Sun 13 Jul Birmingham (Together 2025)
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
Sat 5 Jul Langley Park Centre for the Performing Arts (The Canadian Staff Songsters in Concert)
Wed 9 Jul William Booth College (Covenant Day)
Fri 11 Jul Birmingham Conference and Events Centre (Spiritual Leaders’ Meeting)
Fri 11 Jul – Sun 13 Jul Birmingham (Together 2025)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest
Wed 9 Jul William Booth College (Covenant Day)
Fri 11 Jul Birmingham Conference and Events Centre (Spiritual Leaders’ Meeting)
Fri 11 Jul – Sun 13 Jul Birmingham (Together 2025)
NOTICES
Self-Denial
Appeal: Thank you!
Thank you for your sacrificial giving to support the Self Denial Appeal. This year, the appeal focused on expanding the Army’s global mission, with particular emphasis on the Army’s life changing work in Indonesia. The appeal raised £1,070,408 – £43,614 more than last year’s appeal! If you have any feedback or suggestions for next year’s appeal, please email territorial.appeals@salvationarmy.org.uk
National Month of Prayer for Toddler Groups
This ecumenical initiative runs throughout June and encourages churches, individuals and toddler communities to pray for parent and toddler groups. The theme for 2025 is based on the words of Isaiah 43:18–21. Available resources include a tribute to Major John Smith, who encouraged and began this focused time of prayer. Visit salvationist.org. uk/resources/national-month-prayer-toddler-groups
Act Now, Change Forever
On Wednesday 9 July, the Climate Coalition is organising a mass lobby in Westminster that will bring thousands of people together to ask MPs to protect the country’s health, nature, communities, climate and future. There will be a prayer vigil outside parliament’s gates and various stalls at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre. Find out more at theclimatecoalition.org/ act-now-change-forever or email environment@salvationarmy.org.uk
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Divisional Commander Major Mark Rose (East Midlands). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Fully Scored
In this month’s episode of the Music Editorial team’s podcast, Brian Hillson chats to Matthew Frost about his legacy of Salvation Army recordings, Howard Evans looks at Eric Ball’s ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’ and International Staff Bandsman Rob Hayward is the guest on Arid Island.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
ADVERTS
BRADFORD CITADEL, BD6 1NS VISIT OF SALE CORPS BAND
Saturday 5 July, 7pm
An evening of music to celebrate our 30th corps anniversary Tickets £5 (under-18s free) Contact bradford.citadel@ salvationarmy.org.uk or 01274 677591
All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion.
For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk
Dates worth remembering.
• Online discussions
• Inspiring conferences
• Territorial networks
salvationist.org.uk/events
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