Salvationist 29 jun 2013

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 29 June 2013 // No. 1404 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

At the centre of all things Army

Pages 12 & 13

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

6.

4.

NEWS and PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers 5.– 9.

NEWS Italy // Northern // Reading // London // Peterborough Citadel // Durham // Belfast Sydenham // Exeter Temple // Cardiff // Boscombe // USA Central // Hadleigh Farm // Feltham // North Shields // Kilmarnock // Burton-on-Trent // Hythe // Czech Republic // Germany // Hungary // 8.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10.

LETTERS

5.

11.

REVIEW FEATURE Mission accomplished 12. & 13.

FEATURE

A church tailor-made for the community 14.

THINKALOUD Conformed or transformed 15.

Valley of dry bones

BIBLE STUDY

16. & 17. NEW COMMITMENTS 18. & 19.

20. – 23.

24.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

12.

7.

ADVERTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated 2

Salvationist 29 June 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

A PLACE FOR ALL

concludes by saying that he never ceases to thank God for Commissioner Denis Hunter who refused to un-create the partnership he created.

Imagine what would have happened, or maybe not happened, if the musicals had never been written.

‘WOULD you like some help with your packing?’ is a question I am often asked at the supermarket checkout.

Sometimes I go along with the idea, which allows me to observe a lesson in the art of packing. I leave thinking, if only I could transfer those observed skills to packing a suitcase or the car boot. But it doesn’t seem to work like that.

I’m told it’s all about spatial awareness, in other words being able to see how everything will fit into a defined space. It seems that if maths or jigsaw puzzles were my forte I wouldn’t have a problem. But clearly that’s not the case and no matter how easy packing might look to someone else, for me it’s another matter.

Never mind things – what about people? I was interested to discover what’s happening at Clapton (pages 12 and 13) and how the corps fits into the community, having moved from relative obscurity to the place to be. By meeting the people outside the hall and listening to them, the corps has developed and continues to do so. Lively worship and practical Christianity resonate with people. Many have made a faith commitment and look to give something back to the Army and their community through volunteering.

Fitting into what’s happening in the wider world is an ongoing challenge for the Church. On page 14 John Coutts contributes a thought-provoking feature in which he asks: ‘So where do we stand on same-sex relationships?’ He says that he is still searching for an answer but offers a few tentative suggestions.

For anyone who enjoys music from the Gowans and Larsson musicals, General John Larsson (Retired) writes on page 11 about Volume 4, the final CD in the series. He

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist (fax) 020 7367 4691 EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891

In the service of Jesus there’s a place for all If you’re towering giants or just sort of small If you’ve been up to college Or you don’t know much If you’re childlike you’re welcome For the book says of such That the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. (from the musical Glory!

by John Gowans and John Larsson)

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

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A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed

by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © General of The Salvation Army, 2013. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity.

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THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth CHIEF OF THE STAFF Commissioner André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 29 June 2013

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NEWS AND PAPERS The Chief of the Staff calls High Council to elect 20th General IHQ CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner André Cox has summoned members of the High Council to meet on 29 July 2013 for the purpose of electing the 20th General of The Salvation Army. All leaders who are commissioners on active service or who are territorial commanders or territorial presidents of women’s ministries of whatever rank qualify for membership of the High Council.

This High Council will be the largest in the history of The Salvation Army. There will be 118 members – 64 women and 54 men – with

an average age of 59. Fifty-four will be attending a High Council for the first time.

Twenty-six have appointments in the Americas and Caribbean Zone and 24 in the Africa Zone. The South Pacific and East Asia Zone supplies 21 members, Europe 18 and South Asia 15. Fourteen International Headquarters commissioners complete the total of 118 members.

The High Council will not meet at its usual venue of Sunbury Court as this historic venue is presently undergoing a major refurbishment. Instead, it will meet at the Renaissance Hotel, near Heathrow. This is not the first time the High Council has convened away from Sunbury Court – in 1934 and 1939 proceedings took place at Clapton, in the East End of London.

The Chief of the Staff will preside over the

opening of the High Council until such time as a president and vice-president have been elected. The deliberations of the council will then be directed by the president, preparing the way for nominations for the office of General and the election of the next international leader of The Salvation Army.

News releases will be issued from time to time during the course of the High Council and will be available on the International Headquarters website. The announcement of the new General will be webcast so people all around the world will learn the identity of the new General at the same time.

For the latest information, visit www. salvationarmy.org/HighCouncil2013.

A Twitter feed, @HighCouncil2013, has also been set up, along with a Facebook page www.facebook.com/HighCouncil2013

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS WELBY SPEAKS TO POPE OF ‘SELF-GIVING’ LOVE

Overcoming divisions between Anglicans and Roman Catholics will require a ‘self-giving love’, characterised by ‘hospitality and love for the poor’, the Archbishop of Canterbury said… at his first meeting with Pope Francis.

Archbishop Welby, accompanied by his wife, Caroline, and the RC Archbishop of Westminster, the Most Rev Vincent Nichols, met Pope Francis at the Apostolic Palace…

Archbishop Welby said that he prayed ‘that the nearness of our two inaugurations may serve the reconciliation of the world and the Church… It is only as the world sees Christians growing visibly in unity that it will accept through us the divine message of peace and reconciliation.’

Pope Francis told Archbishop Welby: ‘Since we began our respective ministries within days of each other, I think we will always have a particular reason to support one another in prayer.’

Church Times

JOHN AND FRANCIS: TWO OF A KIND In his book with Rabbi Skorka, the then future Pope Francis remembers being five or six and accompanying his grandmother, when two Salvation Army women passed by. He asked her if they were nuns. ‘No,’ she replied, ‘they are Protestants, but they are good’…

Bergoglio reflected back on the incident as 4

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archbishop of the capital city [Buenos Aires] and praised his grandmother’s ‘wisdom of true religion’.

John XXIII arose from humble origins in a village near Bergamo, Italy, never forgetting his roots. His chauffeur secretly slipped him away from the Vatican for a surprise visit to a dear friend in hospital… Pope John seemed to interact best in private conversations and offering encouragement with simplicity and humility in contrast to the high pageantry surrounding the papacy.

The Tablet

GOD GOES, BUT QUEEN REMAINS HEAD GIRL AS THE GUIDES ADAPT TO CHANGING WORLD Girl Guiding has severed its ties with God and country – at the heart of the movement since it was founded more than a century ago – after a radical rewriting of its historic Promise that is designed to appeal to a new generation of members.

From now on, Guides will pledge ‘to be true to myself and develop my beliefs’ instead of ‘to love my God’. The words ‘my country’ have been replaced by ‘my community’.

But the Queen survived the cull…

One critic accused the organisation of ‘blowing with the wind’, but Gill Slocombe, the Chief Guide, said she believed the new pledge was spiritual without being faith-based.

The Times

NEWS The Chief of the Staff and Commissioner Silvia Cox lead historic commissioning weekend ITALY CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner André Cox (right) played a leading role in an historic day for The Salvation Army in Italy when he commissioned and ordained four Salvation Army officers. Lieutenants Luigi and Valentina Capuano and Luca and Francesca Longo were the first officers to be trained and commissioned in their homeland for 54 years.

The weekend’s events began with a two-day spiritual retreat at Villa Sorriso, where the Chief and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox joined the cadets, command leaders and officers who were involved in the training of the cadets for a time of prayer and meditation.

Officer Commanding LieutColonel Daniel Naud welcomed representatives of civic authorities and other churches to the commissioning meeting, which was held in the Methodist church in Rome. General Secretary Major David Cavanagh added words of introduction and explanation.

The Chief gave recognition to four officers present who had been among those cadets commissioned more than 50 years ago. Referring to the cadets about to become officers he said: ‘Pray for these new officers as they take up the flame.’ Speaking about the need for more officers, the Chief noted that the addition of four new officers increased the Italy and Greece Command’s officer strength by 20 per cent!

Lieutenant Luigi Capuano testified to God’s care for him even when as a boy he did not know him. He explained that

when he met Valentina, who introduced him to The Salvation Army and to faith, he realised that God had been there all the time. Lieutenant Francesca Longo in her testimony emphasised the importance of bringing the gospel to those who have yet to hear it.

The new lieutenants were given ‘marching orders’ to their first appointments by command

leaders Lieut-Colonels Daniel and Eliane Naud.

The meetings were enriched by music group contributions from Rome and Naples Corps and a band augmented by Salvationists from France. The occasion was a great stimulus to the spiritual life of the command.

On Sunday the visiting leaders were warmly greeted by Salvationists and friends at

Rome Corps. During the meeting the worship team from the host corps brought encouragement through a variety of songs.

A 13-strong group from Greece that had travelled to Rome for the weekend sang to the glory of God. Brother Christos in his testimony stated that, even though for many years he followed the Lord, there was a time in his life when he felt that God was calling him elsewhere and to do more. He said that in a dream the Lord made it clear he wanted him to serve in The Salvation Army.

Commissioner Silvia Cox, in her Bible message, referred to the story of Esther and to verses from Jeremiah to show that despite the circumstances or sufferings, God wants to use his people according to his plan but, she added, if anyone refuses to be used by God, he will choose someone else.

The commissioner’s final exhortation – ‘Do you want to be part of God’s plan?’ – led many people to kneel at the mercy seat and dedicate their lives to the Lord. The weekend concluded with a response in song from all present: ‘I’ll stand for Christ, for Christ alone’. – E. G./F. P./V. L.

Territorial leaders Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams officially open the new suite of offices for Northern DHQ; DHQ staff spent nine months in temporary accommodation after extensive flooding of the former premises Salvationist 29 June 2013

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NEWS Everywhere tour brings inspiration North York Temple Band, Toronto (Canada and Bermuda) visited a number of corps during its Everywhere tour. Here is a roundup of reports…

READING ALL Saints church (pictured) was the venue for the Saturday concert. The programme led by Commissioner William Francis included compositions by Mark Venables: the march ‘Abundance’ and the cornet solo ‘Eternal Life’ played by his father Robert Venables.

On Sunday morning the band divided to lead worship at Reading Lower Earley and Reading West.

Both meetings were vibrant and moving in equal measure. In the afternoon the three Reading corps met for worship at All Saints church. – P. B.

LONDON AN intrigued crowd watched as the band gathered on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral for a lunchtime concert of traditional hymns and contemporary wor– ship songs. – G. R.

PETERBOROUGH CITADEL THE songsters presented a premeeting concert and then provided a guard of honour, waving maple leaf flags, as the band entered a crowded hall bedecked in red and white to the strains of ‘The Canadian’.

The evening featured brilliant brass playing and the unashamed proclamation of God’s love.

Composer Bandmaster Andrew Mackereth (Nuneaton) was present to hear and to excitedly acclaim the astounding playing of Brindley Venables in his 6

Salvationist 29 June 2013

cornet solo ‘Heaven Came Down’.

Trombone soloist Barrington Venables gave a masterful presentation of Ray Steadman-Allen’s ‘Fantasia On Spirituals’ and the band played Dean Jones’ ‘Validus Deus’. The congregation joined in ‘Storm The Forts’ accompanied by a New Orleans-style ensemble.

On Pentecost Sunday, a ‘bring a friend’ initiative by the corps led to more than 30 people attending worship for the first time. – J. B.

DURHAM ELVET Methodist church, Durham, provided the venue for a programme hosted by Sunderland Millfield featuring ‘He Is Exalted’ (Edward Mylechreest) and Steven Ponsford’s arrangement ‘Now I Belong To Jesus’. Commissioner Francis drew on selected verses from Psalm 118 to demonstrate not only its significance in the life of Jesus, but also how God’s love endures for ever. This was an apt introduction to the tour’s signature piece ‘Everywhere’, composed by Bandsman Marcus Venables drawing upon Andrew Maycock’s arrangement of John Gowans’ words ‘Have you ever stopped to think how God loves you?’ – R. B.

and visited various attractions in the city. At the hall a capacity congregation was taken on a journey of spiritual uplift and challenge through the band’s ministry. Commissioner Francis spoke about the importance of eternal security in Jesus. – P. B.

EXETER TEMPLE IN the afternoon the band marched to the cathedral precincts for an open-air meeting where many contacts were made. A civic reception at the Guildhall followed.

The evening festival drew a large congregation from the South West. The occasion was interesting in that most of the music was written by composers present at the festival including Marcus Venables, Steven Ponsford, Kenneth Downie and Darren Bartlett. – A. C.

CARDIFF CARDIFF Grangetown Corps offered hospitality to the band during the day before the evening event in Llandaff Cathedral. Keith Griffin compèred an inspiring programme which featured North York Temple Band and Cory Band.

– A. R.

BOSCOMBE A PACKED hall greeted the visitors for the Saturday evening concert. As well as leading Sunday meetings, the band gave an afternoon programme at the Pinewalk bandstand. Throughout the weekend the band’s ministry made an unforgettable impact. – P. L. Proceeds from the tour will support community work in Kenya East Territory

O

Members of Bristol Citadel, Bristol Easton, Bristol Bedminster, Bristol Kingswood, Staple Hill and Pill lead more than 1,500

BELFAST SYDENHAM

Christians on a march of witness around the main shopping

THE band was welcomed by members of the corps and DHQ

centre of Bristol before the Celebrate Pentecost party in Castle Park

NEWS The General leads family congress USA CENTRAL MORE than 3,600 Salvationists converged on St Louis, Missouri, for the territory’s family congress led by General Linda Bond.

Exhilarating meetings, special events and family-orientated activities made for a non-stop weekend of spiritual refreshment, strengthened connections and renewed commitments.

From the moment the General exclaimed: ‘This is a victory congress. The Holy Spirit is going to do a new thing that could very well spark revival around the Salvation Army world,’ she had won over her listeners with her fervour and hope. Her strong, clear Bible messages – sprinkled with humour and anecdotes – expounded on the International Vision ‘One Army, One Mission, One Message’. Many Salvationists felt compelled to kneel at the mercy seat at the end of each session, with others standing to show a deeper commitment.

Chicago Staff Band supported and each meeting was packed with blessings.

Highlights included a record $8.1 million World Services ingathering; the enrolment of 160 soldiers; a massed singing company of nearly 200 children; the presentation of certificates in recognition of exceptional service to two women soldiers for their support of missions and youth; an original musical drama based on William Booth’s essay ‘In Heaven But Not Of Heaven’; and moving testimonies of transformation given by officers, soldiers and employees. The God-glorifying event was supported by territorial leaders Commissioners Paul and Carol Seiler and USA national leaders Commissioners William and Nancy Roberts.

Besides the main worship sessions, delegates had many other opportunities for participation. An exhibit hall featured a

marketplace of vendors, historical exhibits and The Salvation Army’s supplies and purchasing department, with a special emphasis on fundraising to support a clean water project for the Kenya East Territory, which is a partner in mission of USA Central. Elsewhere, 225 people completed a sponsored fivekilometre walk/run for World Services, raising approximately $5,000.

There was a myriad of family opportunities during the congress, including a leisurely Saturday afternoon at the zoo.

During main meetings, dynamic, spiritually enriching programming for children was provided.

Special activities for youth and young adults included a latenight ‘afterglow’ at a museum, a contemporary Christian music concert and a Soapbox with the General where she answered a broad spectrum of questions. She told the young people: ‘William and Catherine Booth’s heart is in the youth. This is a revival generation. Our greatest days are ahead of us and you’re going to be a part of it.’

Echoing this sense of promise, on Sunday morning 32 cadets – nearly half first-generation Salvationists – were commissioned as Salvation Army officers by the General. Again, the General’s heartfelt preaching on holiness met people where they

were, with large numbers of people moving to the place of prayer. A call to officership resulted in nearly 130 responses.

In the exuberant final meeting the General challenged the new lieutenants to be their God-given best. They were given their appointments by the TC, with most beginning their ministry as corps officers across America’s Midwest. – E. K.

Celebrating kaleidoscopic talent NORTHERN DIVISION THE divisional adult and family rally, themed Kaleidoscope, recognised the various gifts, abilities and cultures represented in the division. Each corps was given a colour to dress in and charged to make a flag representing their community and ministry. The divisional fellowship band supported and Major Elaine Arnold and Captain Mark Sellers (Carlisle) animated the congregation with fun recitations and a singalong. Guest soloist Captain Wendy Parkhill (West Scotland DHQ) sang ‘Pictures Of Perfection’ and ‘Praise The Lord, He Never Changes’.

Guest speaker Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Marianne Adams challenged the congregation to

At Hadleigh Farm, Rare Breeds Centre Manager Emma Sayer introduces Guernsey goat kid, Titus, to Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams, after whom he was named – Titus being the TC’s middle name

recognise the kaleidoscope of talent that can be used to bring God’s love and light into the community and change the pattern into something beautiful.

– K. G. FELTHAM: The first Cameo Sunday held at the corps took the theme Creation. Members took part in choosing favourite songs, poems and readings for the meeting. Eleven members, who do not usually attend on a Sunday, came to the meeting.

– J. B. NORTH SHIELDS: Majors Ray and Joyce Ebden led 135th corps anniversary celebrations.

The weekend included an anniversary tea and social evening of games and entertainment on Saturday. On Sunday the meetings reviewed past and present activities with a strong focus on the future. – J. G. Salvationist 29 June 2013

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NEWS

At Kilmarnock, corps folk enjoy a day out in Eglinton Park to support Andy Peddle in his walkathon

WEEK 18 Folk from North Shields enjoy a corps retreat at Minsteracres Centre, Northumberland, led by Lieut-Colonels Anthony and Gill Cotterill (WBC) who challenged them to dig deeper in their faith

A window display based on Catherine Booth graces the flower festival in Great Longstone, Derbyshire; corps folk from Burton-onTrent were asked to supply items based on the theme Famous Ladies Of Derbyshire

Monday 1 July John 18 – Jesus is arrested and taken before the Jewish leaders and then to Pilate O Compared to the other Gospels, John’s account puts Jesus firmly in control during his arrest and trials. Do you agree?

O Could the other disciple be John? If so, it seems he had access to details of the trials (v16) O Other accounts describe the Last Supper as a Passover meal. Jews were keen not to become defiled (v28) so that they could eat the Passover meal later that day. Does this add credibility to the theory that, to allow for presentation and slaughter of the lamb, the Passover was extended two days, or do you think that some ate the meal during the daytime and some the evening before (each Jewish day is from sunset to sunset)?

Tuesday 2 July John 19 – Pilate has Jesus flogged, then crucified, after which Jesus is laid in a tomb O Why did Pilate have Jesus flogged (v1)? Was it a legal requirement, an attempt to win favour with the crowd or a last ditch attempt to save him from execution?

O The sign above Jesus on the cross differs slightly between Gospel accounts; v20 gives the reason why.

Wednesday 3 July John 20 – The resurrected Jesus appears to his followers O Why do you think Mary didn’t recognise Jesus (v14)?

O vv19 and 26: what was the significance of locked doors and what can be learnt from this?

O As Jews the disciples knew that only God was to be worshipped. Note what Thomas said (v28) and how Jesus accepted his declaration.

Football focus during meeting HYTHE MEMBERS of the senior Salvation Army football team, the youth football group and parents from the veterans’ team attended the annual Football Sunday Awards Service. The meeting 8

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included contemporary worship songs, photos from the season, a short and direct gospel message and the presentation of trophies.

The senior team won the East Kent Church League this year, making them the league champions for the second time. The players strive to play pure, clean and fair football as they represent the Army. – P. L.

Thursday 4 July John 21 – Jesus guides the disciples to a miraculous catch of fish and reinstates Peter O v11: is there any reason for mentioning that 153 large fish were caught?

O In v15 is Jesus referring to the other disciples or the fish?

O v24 identifies the beloved disciple as the Gospel writer Friday 5 July Acts 1 – Jesus ascends into Heaven and Matthias is chosen to replace Judas Iscariot O Luke’s Gospel is addressed to Theophilus too; Acts is presumed to be written by the same author O vv9–11: why was Jesus taken like this?

O vv 21–26: how legitimate would it be to make major church decisions in this way today?

NEWS Salvation Army provides support to flooded areas of Europe CZECH REPUBLIC THE Salvation Army played an important role in helping people affected by rising floodwaters in Prague. Flood barriers were raised on the River Vltava, which flows through the city, but some parts were already affected. More than 3,000 people were evacuated from their homes across the west of the country.

The Salvation Army hostel in Prague remained open and offered extra beds to homeless people and evacuees – as requested by local officials. The hostel’s day centre area also stayed open during the night to give homeless people, who usually stay under bridges and at the riverside, a dry place to rest. All guests were offered meals, coffee and tea.

Contact was made with the village of Počáply, which The Salvation Army ‘adopted’ during the devastating floods of 2002. Most villages in this part of the Czech Republic were evacuated. – A. W.

AS floodwaters rose in eastern Germany, The Salvation Army assisted victims and volunteer workers. This area was also heavily damaged by extensive flooding in 2002.

Around 30 volunteers – equipped with four vehicles – provided help across the region.

They served warm meals and coffee, packed sandbags, listened to heartbroken people and

gave practical assistance where needed in Meissen, Leipzig and Dresden.

Salvation Army relief activities were carried out in co-ordination with the local government and the fire service.

The waters rose and moved north, affecting a broader populace in Germany. When the waters recede and the heavy clean-up begins, The Salvation Army is prepared to help in the substantial work of rebuilding lives. – A. R.

Regional Officer Major Andrew Morgan praised the quick and efficient response of the Budapest team and called for prayer support: ‘Pray that our responders will remain physi-

cally strong and spiritually alert as they minister in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and on behalf of The Salvation Army.’

– A. R.

GERMANY

HUNGARY AFTER severe flooding in Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic, the swollen Danube threatened the Hungarian capital Budapest.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán declared an emergency and his government asked The Salvation Army to provide essential supplies and assistance as evacuations took place.

Salvation Army officers and volunteers served hot meals and drinks to workers constructing emergency flood protection measures on Margaret Island, in the city centre section of the river. As 300,000 sandbags were being assembled on site, The Salvation Army worked closely with disaster management professionals, water management experts, firefighters, soldiers and civilian volunteers.

Hot food was prepared in The Salvation Army’s men’s hostel in the city and clients of the homeless shelter helped with the relief effort.

Although emergency disaster response assistance was provided previously, this is the first time that the Hungarian government has officially requested Salvation Army help since its re-establishment in the country in 1990.

The authorities asked that the Army team, co-ordinated by Captain Gábor Gazsó, remain at the scene. Floods also affected the Gyõr-Moson-Sopron and KomáromEsztergom areas of the country.

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LETTERS GOWANS AND LARSSON EVENING WAS EXCELLENT I WOULD like to express my appreciation to the organisers and performers who put together the modern tribute to Gowans and Larsson presented at Regent Hall on the Friday evening of the Gospel Arts weekend.

It was an excellent evening with many updated arrangements by Kevin Larsson of songs from the Gowans and Larsson musicals.

A real highlight of the evening for me was Sue Blyth’s version of ‘Army Cup Of Tea’ and it was lovely to see a presentation of John Gowans reciting, in his inimitable style, ‘General William Booth Enters Into Heaven’.

Thank you for a great evening.

Andrea Hopkins, St Mary Cray

GREAT SONG – HUGE IMPACT NEARLY two years ago I purchased the recording Songs That No One Taught Us by Alvin and Karl Allison, which I found to be not an ordinary worship CD. Recently my husband was asked to contribute to the training of our town’s soon-to-be-commissioned Street Pastors group. He felt that one song – ‘Come As You Are’ – fitted well with the session theme, Knowing Your Community, and played it at the end.

The impact it had on the group was incredible, and almost everyone has since commented how challenged and inspired they were by it.

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We found a version on YouTube that has accompanying images and posted it on Facebook for the group. We have since heard that it has been used in small-group situations and one woman sent the link to her vicar and several members of her congregation.

The Street Pastors in the town subsequently asked if they could adopt it as their theme song, as it reminds us to be nonjudgmental and to make sure our churches are inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of age, class, race, gender or sexual orientation.

We are hoping that our town will catch this vision and that any individuals encountered on the streets by the Street Pastors as part of their ministry will feel welcome in any of our church buildings.

Ann Rowsell, East Grinstead

AN IDEA FOR EVANGELISM I WOULD like to echo the thoughts of all those who have written in recently about the wonderful mission opportunities that selling the Army papers on the streets provides.

Twice a week I go out locally and last month I gave a Bible to a man who is seeking the Lord and requested one.

The shop opposite where I stand, which provides me with coffee each time, has an Army box for five pence pieces and has collected nearly £300 in a year. At one corps a woman came to faith after I had invited her to the meeting through the street ministry. If only there were more Salvationists willing to witness in this way!

Now here’s an idea. Why not give every officer and uniformed Salvationist working on DHQ, THQ and the training college, the opportunity to go out once a week for a few hours in a high street or market to sell the papers and build up friendships? I’m sure most officers would be glad of the break from the computer screen.

The money raised would help the work of the headquarters or local corps and would greatly increase the profile of The Salvation Army. Maybe it’s already happening in some DHQs – if not, give it a try.

God bless your work in providing such good tools for mission and evangelism

through Salvationist, The War Cry and Kids Alive! (which I take into schools when I do assemblies).

David Wise, Major, Williamstown

OUR GOOD NEWS I HAVE led the corps at Bideford for more than 20 years; through many changes I have been supported by a loyal group of comrades and friends and have so much to thank God for.

Sadly, as I am no longer able to work full-time, our weekly programme has become limited. We have been praying that God would bring into our area of Torridgeside people with sincere faith and a heart for our Army who would be willing to join our little team in mission.

We are greatly encouraged by two soldiers who recently moved down from Peterborough. They were in the meeting when we welcomed our latest adherent member. We hope that our good news, might encourage other small corps to keep on believing. We must not despair, for we are in God’s hands. He has promised us greater things if we will simply place our trust in him.

We are rejoicing here in Bideford; Doreen is our second new adherent member in a month. She lives in Torrington and it is special that she has expressed the wish to join our corps.

Bideford and Torrington have close connections; it was back in 1884 that two officers from Torrington made ‘open-air raids’ in Bideford. Eventually two women officers were sent to ‘open fire’ and Bideford had its own corps.

We held outreach meetings in Torrington until quite recently.

Mary Craigie, Envoy, Bideford Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address O The Editor reserves the right to edit letters or print extracts O Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

REVIEW FEATURE

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED General John Larsson (Retired) writes about the series of CDs he has recorded THE piano stands silent again. The project of recording piano arrangements of the songs from the musicals has been completed. After recording a total of 115 tracks and preparing four 32-page booklets of lyrics, on my desk lie the fruits of my labour: four compact discs with five hours of music from the musicals – and with me still smiling on their covers.

The smile is part of the story, for it has been most enjoyable to delve back into this storehouse of songs that John Gowans and I wrote together. At times it has been quite moving as well to recall how the inspiration for particular songs came. From comments received about the earlier CDs, it seems the songs have also brought smiles as well as the occasional tear to many listeners.

The first three CDs in the series John Larsson plays covered two musicals each.

The newly released Volume 4 has favourites from four musicals. This was always part of the plan for these four musicals are not as well known as the first six. White Rose was originally written for women’s ministries, Son Of Man was initially published in the USA, Man Mark II was published only in that country, and The Meeting came at the tail end of the era of our musicals.

Yet John and I have always reckoned that they contain some of our best songs. Included in Volume 4 are songs like ‘God Is Spirit’, ‘I’ll Not Turn Back’, ‘They Need Christ’ and ‘I Want To Say Yes’.

It is pleasing to note that the return of the Gowans and Larsson musicals continues, with performances being staged in this country and abroad.

Perhaps the series of CDs has helped to encourage this revival of interest in them as part of our ministry armoury.

It is also pleasing to record that the script, music and orchestra parts for all ten of them are now permanently available in photocopy form from SP&S. Midi recording is a by-product of the computer age, and when I began exploring the marvels of this technique four years ago it was like entering into a new world. With a quality Yamaha digital piano linked to an external computer recording program I have been able to play, record and edit the tracks as well as add other instrumental sounds to some of them. From the wide choice of instrumental voices available I have confined myself to strings and bass so that the sound of the piano always remains predominant.

As I reflect on the musicals and the more than 200 songs that John and I wrote together it is sobering to think that they almost did not happen. It was Brigadier Denis Hunter, then the national youth secretary, who brought us together in 1966 as part of a planning group and commissioned us to write a musical.

We started with enthusiasm – but finding a theme that would fire our imagination proved much harder than we had anticipated. We thrashed around in our minds. We tried idea after idea.

But the paper remained blank.

We were both under great time pressure with our corps work. The next meeting of the planning group was soon due, and we had nothing, absolutely

hi to nothing show. In the end we decided to ask to be relieved of the task. When the group met we told them that, regrettably, they had backed the wrong team and that we must admit defeat and let someone else have a go.

But to his everlasting credit, Denis Hunter simply refused to consider that option. He told us that he and the group were convinced that we had it in us to write a musical – and would we now, please, go back and try yet again.

Well, we did – and the rest, as they say, is history. But it could have been so different. John and I have never ceased to thank God for Denis Hunter, for had he not refused to un-create the partnership he had created, there would have been no musicals and no songs – and no CDs. O Visit

www.johnlarsson.com for further information and sample tracks John Larsson plays (Volume 4) is available from SP&S priced £9.99 (plus £2.95 postage and packing). Telephone Mail Order on +44(0)1933 445445 or visit www.sps-shop.com or www.spstunes.com O

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FEATURE

A church tailor-made for the community Nine years ago, as newly commissioned officers Captains Karl and Ruth Gray were appointed to Clapton in Hackney, one of the most deprived boroughs in the UK, and found a tired-looking hall with just a handful of worshippers.

Tasked with reconnecting with the community, the captains threw out the rulebook and opened the doors.

The corps now has more than 120 worshippers on a Sunday morning and provides a lifeline to the community. Laura Barker finds out more 12

Salvationist 29 June 2013

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LAPTON Congress Hall was once the hub of The Salvation Army. As The Hackney Society reports: ‘Such was The Salvation Army’s success in Hackney that, at the turn of the 20th century, more people came to services at the Congress Hall than at any other place of worship in the area. One Sunday in 1903 [the hall] attracted 913 worshippers, while 1,635 came in the evening.’

Over time, the sense of being ‘at the centre of all things Army’ faded and the congregation dwindled. The under-occupied hall was sold in the 1970s and was succeeded by Clapton Corps in more suitably sized premises. By the turn of the century, Clapton Corps, much like Clapton itself, had become despondent and on a good Sunday attracted no more than 20 people to the meeting.

Fast forward to 2013, and as I walk into the corps building on a Monday morning, it is buzzing with activity. I sit in the coffee area and throughout the morning a constant stream of people settle down to enjoy a latte or cappuccino. Some people chat with friends, others peruse items from the charity shop or use the computers to look for work.

Captain Karl Gray explains: ‘When we arrived, we needed to start from scratch. On Monday there was home league, on

Tuesday an over-60 club and on Sunday, morning worship. The same groups of people met for each meeting. There was no one new coming to the corps and it seemed likely it would close.’

The captains followed their instincts and opened up the doors to the community.

Captain Ruth Gray says: ‘We decided to run a toddler group. Quite simply, I stood outside on a Tuesday morning and handed out leaflets, coaxing people into the hall. One mum told me she had walked past the hall every day for nine years and had never seen it open. All she needed was an invitation.’ By word of mouth, the toddler group began to grow and after 18 months moved into the larger hall. Now the group runs three times a week, has 259 children on its register and is full to capacity. A new outside area funded by the Fundraising Department (THQ) provides a play space for more than 50 children. In a neighbourhood where garden space is short, this is transforming the lives of families.

The growth in the corps has been organic.

Ruth explains: ‘Through running the toddler group we realised parents needed something for their older children too. So we started a kids club and a youth club. Alix, one of the mums from the toddler group, used Community First funding to start an art class.

Her neighbour, Drue, runs a crochet group and knit-and-knatter session.’ There are two part-time staff members and two community workers – and a number of service-users have chosen to volunteer.

The growth within the community outreach activities has spread to worship meetings – as many as 140 people sometimes squeeze into the hall on a Sunday morning. In addition to this, on Sunday evening there is a reflectivestyle worship meeting, a Monday afternoon fellowship and Tuesday evening prayer meeting. Each of the four meetings uses the same message and songs so that everyone, whenever they attend, can feel part of all that happens.

Over the past three months the corps has welcomed 15 new people. Despite the non-traditional style of worship, the corps still strives to get people to consider adherent

membership or soldiership. Although there is no band or songsters, anyone can join the allage singing group.

Normally, as a congregation builds, the need for mission support reduces as new members help to support the corps financially. However, for some this is difficult because of their circumstances. Karl and Ruth acknowledge the tremendous support given to the corps by DHQ and THQ. Clapton has high levels of unemployment and poverty. As many as 30 corps members first came to the corps through the food programme and some still rely on the corps for food in times of extreme need. Early in June, in just one day, 20 food parcels were distributed to people in need. Being located in a low-income area, donations, either financial or otherwise, are rare. There is no charge for attendance at any of the activities, because a charge would exclude some people from attending. Instead, the corps aims to generate money through its coffee area, which has become a desirable place to go to for a cheap but decent cuppa. The simple food menu also provides a well-presented, nutritious meal. Those who can afford to pay, do, and those who can’t, don’t. Both paying and non-paying customers are treated the same and are made to feel part of this loving, Christian community; 75 per cent of corps members first attended community projects.

The corps officers, community workers and corps members work together to make the Army a place where people want to be. By serving people’s physical and spiritual needs, this is unashamedly a church tailor-made for the community. www.facebook.com/claptonsa

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THINKALOUD

Conformed or transformed – sailing or drifting? asks John Coutts

J

UST a few weeks ago, back in May, the annual General Assembly of the Church of Scotland ‘sat down’ on the Mound in Edinburgh. Before the restoration of the Scottish Parliament, it was the only national forum for public debate. Its proceedings are sometimes dull, but often its long history has been colourful.

In 1638 the Assembly started a revolution by refusing to disband at the command of King Charles I. In 1843 came the Disruption, when 400 of the ‘Fathers and Brethren’ protesting against state interference, walked bravely away from homes, careers and salaries to set up the Free Church.

And this year there were rumours of yet another impending breakup – over the vexed question of same-sex relationships; to be precise, whether a minister in a civil partnership could be called – that is, appointed – to take charge of a parish. One church – in Aberdeen – had already gone ahead and done so, while two parishes had resigned from the Kirk in protest.

So, were we about to witness ‘high noon’ in the historic Assembly Hall?

Would there be – as the secular press suggested – a theological shoot-out around the statue of old John Knox? At Stirling Corps we work closely with our Church of Scotland colleagues just down the road, one of whom had been chosen to be a Commissioner (a delegate) at the forthcoming Assembly. She was worried, and we shared in prayer for a Godguided outcome.

In the end there was to be no great split. The debate, conducted with courtesy and conviction on all sides, ended in a compromise. The Kirk as a whole voted to uphold the ‘traditional’ man-woman concept of marriage, while allowing individual parishes the right to 14

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call a minister in a same-sex civil partnership. In other words – the supreme authority in the Church of Scotland has agreed to disagree.

But was this a wise compromise or a deplorable fudge? Those anxious heart-searchings in the Scottish Kirk should give us food for thought, because the crosswinds of contemporary thinking swirl around our own Army, even though we don’t have a General Assembly for them to blow through.

Let us turn to Scripture for guidance.

‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world’ – says St Paul – ‘but be transformed by the renewing of your mind’ (Romans 12:2).

But who – in that General Assembly debate – was conforming to the world and who was being transformed? Let’s put it another way: which side was sailing before the wind of the Holy Spirit and which was drifting with the tide of secular opinion?

When it comes to man-woman relationships, Christian understanding has certainly changed. This year the General Assembly has a woman Moderator – which would have been unthinkable to the ‘Fathers and Brethren’ of the 17th century. The pioneering Salvation Army affirmed women’s right to preach the gospel – but then conformed to contemporary social practice by not giving independent appointments to married women officers. Our stance has now changed, but it took us a long time to catch up.

So where do we stand on same-sex relationships? There is no doubt that people of homosexual orientation have been cruelly victimised in the past.

Sometimes they still are. But does this give the State the right to legalise same-sex monogamy – and if so, how should the churches respond?

I am still searching for an answer – but

here are a few tentative suggestions.

First, the followers of Jesus will have to learn to live with disagreement on this question, as we have already done, for example, concerning Christian attitudes to peace and war. On this weighty question our Salvation Army has always tried to make room for the pacifist and the non-pacifist alike.

Next, we must try to think outside our cultural frame of reference. African churches are often criticised for their negative attitude to homosexual conduct – but ‘liberal’ condemnation can sound like the patronising ‘West knows best’ attitude familiar from the 19th century.

And lastly, we mustn’t repeat the mistakes of Christians in earlier centuries and demonise those with whom we disagree. ‘Traditionalists’ (I use the label without prejudice) should recognise that those who relativise St Paul’s apparent condemnation of homosexual conduct (Romans 1:27) can make a case of sorts.

The apostle could just be referring to male prostitution and not to faithful relationships. On the other hand, those who believe that homosexual conduct is wrong – on scriptural or other grounds – are not to be condemned as ‘homophobes’ and ‘bigots’.

‘The spirit of truth’ – said our Lord to the disciples – ‘will guide you into all truth.’ Lord, on this and on other perplexing topics, help us to listen thoughtfully, to hear and to understand.

JOHN WORSHIPS AT STIRLING

BIBLE STUDY

Valley of dry bones In the second of a four-part series entitled Dreams And Visions, by four different writers, Major Brian Slinn focuses on Ezekiel’s vision STUDY PASSAGE EZEKIEL 37:1–15

E

ZEKIEL’S vision of the valley of dry bones speaks into the desolation of the people of Judah 12 years into their exile and facing the news that Jerusalem has now finally been destroyed (Ezekiel 33:21).

The larger part of the historic Israel had already been conquered and lost more than 100 years before (720BC).

Now Judah suffers the same fate, with the final indignity of the loss of Jerusalem and all it means to their national and religious life.

The vision of the valley of dry bones given to Ezekiel responds particularly to the brokenness and hopelessness of Israel at this time. As Israel’s ‘watchman’ (see chapter 33), Ezekiel has called Israel to account and identified their present situation with their failure to be who God wants them to be. Now, through this vision, he reveals the possibility of renewal and restoration of what has been lost (chapters 40 to 48).

This takes the form of a rhetorical dialogue between God and Ezekiel.

God asks the question: ‘Can these bones live?’ (37:3). The bones are, as verse 11 reveals, ‘the people of Israel’.

Is it possible, having come under the judgment of God – and their place in God’s purpose lost – to be again what they were before? Can they come again to life, with all that this means?

Ezekiel acknowledges that God alone is the catalyst of what might happen. He is told to ‘prophesy to these bones’ (v4).

The prophecy he is given is one of promise: ‘You will come to life’ (vv5 and 6).

Through Ezekiel’s word, the bones stir and take form. The process of decomposition reverses as flesh

appears. They now look as they were in life, but there is no breath in them (v8).

They remain corpses. The reconstruction of Israel is cosmetic; something more is needed.

It is the second prophecy to ‘the breath’ that proves significant (v9).

God’s intention is to ‘make breath enter you, and you will come to life’ (v5).

Ezekiel simply speaks it into being: ‘They came to life and stood up on their feet – a vast army’ (v10).

The message of this prophecy reveals

‘‘

WE NEED TO BE CAREFUL THAT COSMETIC APPEARANCE DOES NOT HIDE THE REALITY OF WHAT IS

’’

that God has purpose and intention for his people which is not negated by the shifts of history or the perversity of the human response to his will.

Judah may be desolate, as seen in the imagery of the dry bones, but as Ezekiel calls upon God to be faithful in spite of Judah’s faithlessness, he does no more than invite what God wants and intends to give – his ‘breath’, his life, extinguished in their consciousness by recent events.

God does not cease to have purpose for Israel, but needs to find them in a place of receptivity and response in order for that life to be seen and lived among them.

The lessons of the vision of the valley of dry bones, while specific in time and place, are transferable to our context and maybe invite some similar understanding and response.

In a postmodern world where secularism aggressively marginalises Christianity, we can feel ourselves as ghettoised as the Jews in Babylon – a culture hemmed in by a bigger culture, with the sense of loss and disempowerment reinforced by the memory of what used to be.

We might need to hear a corrective voice that suggests we carry some responsibility for where we find ourselves as we adapt to our changing world.

Like the breathless army, as we attempt to re-imagine ourselves in today’s society we need to be careful that cosmetic appearance does not hide the reality of what is.

The key lesson God presents to Ezekiel is the need of ‘breath’ – the pneuma of God, revealed in Creation and through Scripture to Pentecost and to us.

Ezekiel’s call is to invite that life into lifeless Israel. God as his own catalyst waits to do it – now as much as then.

NEXT WEEK: PETER’S VISION

MAJOR SLINN IS CORPS OFFICER, BROMLEY TEMPLE Salvationist 29 June 2013

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NEW COMMITMENTS

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1. GRACE CARROLL, KAITLIN HUYTON Junior soldiers HYTHE SUPPORTED by family and friends, Grace and Kaitlin were enrolled as junior soldiers. The congregation promised to support the girls as a spiritual family. Corps officer Captain Phil Layton read Romans 4 and challenged the new junior soldiers and congregation to consider how God is always faithful. – P. L. 2. PAM SINCLAIR, TOMMY YOUNG, ELIZABETH BAILEY Adherent members LEADGATE CORPS officer Major Eric Pearce welcomed Pam, Tommy and Elizabeth as adherent members.

Following an invitation by her neighbour, Pam started attending the Army several years ago. Tommy and his daughter Elizabeth have had connections with the Army for some years, but when his late wife fell ill they felt the strong support of corps folk. They decided to make the corps their place of worship and have become more involved during the past year. – D. P. 3. ALAN PHILLIPS Adherent member BROMSGROVE ALAN visited the drop-in centre and enjoyed it so much that he has also started to attend Sunday evening meetings. He was welcomed to the fellowship as an adherent member. – C. G. 4. DAVID HAYES Soldier WOMBWELL LAST year David was diagnosed with a terminal illness. At his most recent appointment, doctors revealed that his illness was no longer terminal. David testified to offering a listening ear to his neighbours and quoted the words: ‘Just where he needs me, my 16

Salvationist 29 June 2013

7.

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Lord has placed me.’ Corps officer Captain Vaughan Bovan enrolled David as a soldier. – V. B. 5. RICKY WOOD Soldier BARNSLEY A MATURE student reading science at university, Ricky testified that his studies have revealed to him God as Creator. This revelation challenged his faith and brought him back to regular worship at the Army. In his testimony, Ricky challenged the congregation to think about who God is. Corps officer Captain Vaughan Bovan enrolled Ricky as a soldier. – V. B. 6. – 8. MARTIN LEWIS, PAULA LEWIS Soldiers GEORGINA WEBB Junior soldier CANNOCK MARTIN and Paula were members of the Assemblies of God Church, where Martin was also a minister for a number of years. They were so impressed by the warm welcome they received at the Army that they decided to stay. Georgina attends the corps when she visits her grandparents and other family members. Corps officer Major Nigel Govier enrolled Martin and Paula as soldiers and Georgina as a junior soldier on her ninth birthday. – N. G. 9. JOEL DOVE, ERIN BOSWORTH, JAKE SHELTON, ABBIE BOSWORTH, ELLA WRIGHT, LILY, KARLA, BECKY, NATHAN (not pictured) Junior soldiers STAPLEFORD FAMILY and friends came to support nine junior soldiers enrolled by corps officer Major Richard Crowe. The children knelt at the mercy seat and signed the junior soldier’s promise as confirmation of their decision to follow Jesus. The corps welcomed them as a source of great joy and encouragement. – F. T.

10. DAVE MITCHELL, FIONA MITCHELL, ROBERT SPEIRS Adherent members LIVINGSTON CORPS folk welcomed three new adherent members into the fellowship. Dave and Fiona have attended the Army for a number of years with their four children. Through their attendance and serving the community they felt convicted to make a commitment. Robert and his family have had connections with the corps through the years. He became a community café regular and started volunteering. His journey has led him to this commitment. – K. C. 11. NICK BERRY Adherent member BALHAM NICK’S aunt and uncle Majors Freda and Ted Benneyworth welcomed him into the fellowship as an adherent member. He is pictured with the majors and his mother Diane. – V. S. 12. WENDA TRUSCOTT Soldier SHEERNESS CORPS officer Captain Bronnie Rimmer enrolled Wenda as a soldier.

Wenda is a prayer warrior and was encouraged to continue using this gift. – B. R. 13. TOBIAS POFFLEY, DANNY CULLUM, EWAN SCOTT, THOMAS RUTHERFORD, STEVEN BROOKFIELD, EITHEN MAJAMBO, FREDDIE IDEHEN, CHARLIE MORTON Junior soldiers FELIXSTOWE FAMILY and friends supported eight junior soldiers as they were enrolled. Tobias attends with his family and is the first to become a

junior soldier. Danny started attending the Army with his family after they heard the band playing at an open-air meeting. Ewan has been part of the Army all his life, while Thomas and his family are new to the corps. Steven was invited to go along by Eithen, whose mum first came to the corps through the parent-and-toddler group. Freddie also attends with his family. Charlie stopped playing rugby on a Sunday morning so that he could go to Sunday school and junior soldier classes. The boys are pictured with members of the children’s ministry team. – R. W. 14. JAK CAMP Junior soldier SHILDON FAMILY and friends supported Jak as corps officer Major Linda Watson enrolled him as a junior soldier. – L. W. 15. HELEN CAMPBELL Soldier DERBY CENTRAL A CHRISTIAN since she was a teenager, it was only when she accepted that God deserved to come first in her life that she was able to let go of the guilt she was feeling. Helen testifies that she tries to obey the first and greatest commandment – to love the Lord with all her heart, soul, mind and strength. Corps officers Majors Graham and Julie House enrolled Helen as a soldier. – G. H. 16. EDWINA HOLDSWORTH Soldier MIDDLESBROUGH WEST CENTRAL EDWINA was enrolled as a soldier on the second anniversary of her returning to the Army. She felt the renewed call of God on her life and enthusiastically committed her future to the Lord and his service. – A. S.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED OBE O Richard Bullock, Hucknall, for services to the Shrievalty in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, and to the community in Nottingham APPOINTED MBE Carey, Boscombe, for dedicated service to the community of Bournemouth O Pamela Neill, Belfast Temple, for services to the community and voluntary sector in Northern Ireland O Phil

ELECTED Ian Mountford, Bristol Citadel, Convener and Chair of Churches Together in Greater Bristol

O Major

LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED Envoys Lin and Malcolm Anderson, Oxford, for Central South

O Divisional

MARRIAGE Timberlake to Pauline Banks at Staines by Majors Christine and Stephen Perkins

O Paul

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Golden: O John and Vera Poxon, Hartlepool O David and Anne Moulton, Ipswich Citadel DEDICATED TO GOD Benjamin, son of David and Kate Williams, at Bristol Citadel by Major Ian Mountford O William Joseph, son of Zac and Jo Brown, at Dunstable by Major Carol Evans O Noah Jacob, son of Glen and Hannah Bruinewoud, at North Shields by Major Yvonne Dare O Alex David, son of Ian and Kerry-Anne Chaffey; Elisa, daughter of Larisa Honeybourne, both at Abertillery by Captain Beverley Womersley O Charles

BEREAVED Lowther, Newport, of her husband Dr John Lowther, Major Eirwen Pallant, IHQ, of her father O S/Reservist Hazel Middleton, Eastbourne Citadel, of her husband Rtd CT/Bandsman Donald Middleton, Darren Middleton, Southend Citadel, and Gayner Naraine of their father, O Kathleen

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Salvationist 29 June 2013

Muriel Penny, Cardiff Canton, Songster Marjorie Harrison, Bristol Easton, and Christopher Middleton, Wood Green, of their brother RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Major Agnes McClements (80 on 5 July) O Mrs Major Lilian Birch (80 on 5 July) PROMOTED TO GLORY Orval Taylor from USA Southern on 8 June.

Orval Taylor entered training from Seattle Citadel, USA, and was commissioned in 1940. He married Captain Muriel Upton in 1943 and served with her in corps, divisional and territorial appointments in USA Western and USA Eastern.

In addition to his officer service, he was regularly engaged in state welfare work, including territorial and national committees on children and youth.

In 1978 he became National Chief Secretary. Service as Territorial Commander, Caribbean, and International Secretary for Planning and Development, IHQ, followed. In 1983 he was appointed Territorial Commander, USA Eastern.

Commissioner and Mrs Taylor retired in 1986. Mrs Commissioner Muriel Taylor was promoted to Glory in 2010.

O Commissioner

O Rtd

BM David Flett, Wick Gladys Field, Halifax

O Songster

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UK Territory PROMOTIONS To major – Captain Colin Bain, Coventry City Captain Maureen Bain, Coventry City CLIVE ADAMS, Commissioner, Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES BANDSWOMAN/ SONGSTER MRS PEARL RICHARDSON, MALTBY BORN into a Salvationist family, Pearl began her lifelong service at Goldthorpe. After marriage to Colin she transferred to Maltby, immediately becoming an active corps member. A dedicated bandswoman and songster, Pearl also served God as Sunday school teacher, timbrel leader and corps pianist. The commission closest to her heart, however, was that of recruiting sergeant – teaching doctrine to new recruits and leading them to a deeper commitment to God. A loving wife and mother, Pearl’s faith overflowed into family life and her home and heart were open to everyone. She had a wonderful sense of humour and showed that being a Christian can be fun.

Pearl leaves a legacy of faith, fun and duty. – J. A.

ENGAGEMENTS THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O France and Belgium, Sat Sun 7 Jul O Senior Leaders Day, Th 11 O ICO, Th 18, Tu 23 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O William Booth College (Covenant Day), Wed 10 Jul O Westminster Central Hall (commissioning), Sat 13 O William Booth College (farewell meeting), Sun 14 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Chatham, Sat 6 Jul O William Booth College (Covenant Day), Wed 10 O Westminster Central Hall (commissioning), Sat 13 O William Booth College (farewell meeting), Sun 14 COMMISSIONER BIRGITTE BREKKE: O Senior Leaders Day, Th 11 Jul COMMISSIONER WILLIAM COCHRANE: O UK, Market Rasen, Sat Sun 7 Jul O Senior Leaders Day, Th 11 O UK, Westminster Central Hall (commissioning), Sat 13 COMMISSIONER GILLIAN DOWNER: O Taiwan (installation of Officer Commanding and Command President of Women’s Ministries), Tu 2 Jul - Tu 9 O Senior Leaders Day, Th 11 Jul COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O Caribbean, Wed 26 Jun - Tu 2 Jul O Senior Leaders Day, Th 11 COMMISSIONER DORITA WAINWRIGHT: O Senior Leaders Day, Th 11 Jul INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Norway (Norway, Iceland and The Faeroes territorial 125th anniversary congress), Th 27 Jun - Sun 30

GILBERT YOUNG, KIRKCALDY GILBERT came to the corps as a child, joining the YP band. His love of music – particularly the trombone – continued throughout 62 years of band membership. Gilbert served as corps secretary and band secretary. In later years he led the band, keeping Salvation Army banding alive in his home town.

His punctuality was legendary; he was always first at open-air meetings, the band subsequently forming around its trombonist.

Married to Jean for more than 50 years, he supported her service as YPSM. They travelled together to many Army events. To colleagues from work and in special constable duties, friends, family and fellow Salvationists, he was a principled, dependable person. – G. G.

MARGARET NEWTON, KILBIRNIE THE youngest of eight, Margaret was born in Kilbirnie. Her father died when she was young. Her working life was happily spent in a factory making military camouflage nets.

Already a church member, she commenced attending the Army with her sisters, Nan and Mary, and was enrolled as a soldier, wearing her uniform with pride and distinction. She became involved with the home league and Sunday school.

Although Margaret suffered with ill-health she was always very pleasant and sociable, with a lovely nature, warm personality and good character. She latterly contracted motor neurone disease. Although hard to accept, she faced her illness with grace and dignity, motivated by a deep Christian experience. – D. W.

SONGSTER MRS MARGARET HASKING, BASINGSTOKE A LIFELONG Salvationist, Margaret served in a loving, consistent and fully committed way. The majority of her service was at Newton Abbot, where she spent more than 30 years working with young people as primary sergeant and YP treasurer. She later helped with the parent-and-toddler group.

In retirement, Margaret – together with her loving husband Derek – moved to Basing-

stoke to be nearer their sons, Stuart and Robert, and their families. Her service continued as a songster at Basingstoke.

Margaret was promoted to Glory after a short period of illness and is sadly missed.

Her life has been a perfect example of Christian love, care and fun. – S. H.

MRS ALICE RUSHTON, OLDHAM ROUNDTHORN ALICE was born into a Salvationist family at Castleton in 1912. She was YPSM for several years and later home league secretary for a much longer period.

Always cheerful and ready with words of encouragement to both young and old, Alice worked tirelessly in the corps. Her baking skills were legendary. Her lovely calm disposition, caring attitude and cooking skills made her a much appreciated and valued worker in the home help service, where going the extra mile for her clients became the norm.

Alice filled her mind with lovely thoughts and had a deep steadfast faith in God, which she was always proud to share. – B. F.

MARTIN HILL, CANTERBURY BORN in 1943, Martin grew up in a Christian family and attended an Anglican church in Twickenham. Over the years his faith proved to be a great strength in his life.

In 1996, when his eldest son was commissioned as a Salvation Army officer, Martin was invited to worship by Major Malcolm High, then corps officer at Canterbury. Martin soon felt he belonged and made the corps his spiritual home. He first made a commitment as an adherent member and then as a soldier.

Martin’s faith remained strong through various health issues. He assisted in the ministry of the corps in various practical ways, especially finding fulfilment in his welcome duties on Sundays. – J. H.

MRS MARGARET MANDELL, DROITWICH MARGARET was born in 1936 to Salvationist parents. She married Gordon in 1958.

His work commitments took them to Kidderminster

and then to Redditch, where Margaret was songster leader for 15 years. She had a deep sense of commitment to God and the Army and found fulfilment in what she felt was God’s will for her life.

She loved young people and also cared deeply for older people in the fellowship – especially those who were housebound – and regularly travelled from her home near Worcester to visit them.

Her life bore testimony to her faith in God, whom she loved, and she expressed that love in every area of her life. – G. M.

MRS DOROTHY CALVERT, WINTON BORN in 1921 at Flamborough, East Yorkshire, Dorothy was baptised into the Primitive Methodist Church.

At nine she made Hull Icehouse her spiritual home – becoming a singing company member, songster, YP worker and singing company sergeant. She married Robert in 1951.

After many years as a secretary and shorthand typist for a pharmaceutical company, Dot moved to Winton in 1980 with Bob. Their lives were enriched with the arrival of their grandson Bramwell.

‘Aunty Dot’ played an active part in corps life – selling the Army papers and working in the home league and charity shop. She loved all things Army, and what the Army stood for: a Christian expression of practical service to God. – G. T.

GEORGE WILSON, HADLEIGH TEMPLE GEORGE died peacefully after a six-week battle with heart failure.

A lifelong Salvationist, George was introduced to Oldham Citadel at a young age and become songster leader aged just 22 – a position he held for 17 years before moving to Cornwall with his family in 1969.

It was there, as choral leader for the Bristol divisional music school from 1972 until the early 1990s, his legendary conducting skills achieved critical acclaim locally and nationally.

In 1980 he was appointed as resident officer at IHQ – the first non-officer to hold this role.

He retired to Hadleigh, Essex, in 1993.

He leaves his wife Jean, daughter Barbara, grandchildren Andrew and Sarah and countless friends around the world. – B. J. Salvationist 29 June 2013

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Salvationist 29 June 2013

20-23

Through the week with ‘Salvationist’ – a devotional thought for each day Saturday ‘Then the King will say to those on his right, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the Kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world”.’

(Matthew 25:34)

Sunday Thine is the Kingdom, Lord, Thou art the King of kings; Thy realm enfolds the universe And Heaven its tribute brings; Though evil forces seem On earth to hold the sway, Thy loyal peoples wait in faith To hail thy crowning day.

(SASB 171)

Monday Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you,

no one can see the Kingdom of God unless they are born again.’ ( John 3:3)

Tuesday Thine is the power, O Lord, Nor Heaven nor earth can break; The oceans move at thy command, The stars their courses make.

Thou canst the breath of man Bestow or canst withhold; Of all the wonders of thy power No tongue has ever told.

(SASB 171)

Wednesday Then he [the penitent thief ] said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.’ Jesus answered him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’

(Luke 23:42 and 43)

Praying around the world…

Malawi The Salvation Army started operations in Malawi in 1967. Work has grown and expanded which resulted in the region being given territory status in March 2011.

The territory, led by Colonels Moses and Sarah Wandulu, comprises 90 officers, 50 corps, 19 outposts, 64 outreach units and new openings, 6,534 soldiers and 2,352 junior soldiers.

Malawi is one of the world’s least developed countries with a life expectancy of only 53.5 years and a poverty rate of 52 per cent. In these desperate circumstances, children suffer; boys are sent to work and girls are sold into prostitution. Pray that the Army’s Mchinji centre can provide a refuge and support network to those children who are rescued from trafficking and that the cycles of human trafficking can be broken.

Rosa Salvation. Picture: VAL JONES

Thursday Thine is the glory, Lord, The greatness and the praise, The final victory over death, The end of mortal days.

All majesty is thine, Beyond the poet’s pen, For thou art life, and light and love: Amen, amen, amen!

(SASB 171)

Friday In you alone can I be satisfied: Your strong right hand has marked me as your own And, since for all my needs you will provide, Invade my soul and make my soul your throne.

Just come, Lord, come in love and power today.

O let me feel you near me as I pray.

Amen.