Salvationist 2 December 2023

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p/80c 2 December 2023

SALVATIONIST

TIDINGS OF...

COMFORT AND JOY THIS ADVENT CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM RETIRED OFFICERS PAGES 12+13

Comfort and joy ADVENT is for many a time of preparation.

Whether intentionally or otherwise, it marks the beginning of the journey towards Christmas. Retailers have long since started their advertising campaigns suggesting what we just can’t do without.

Many will feel a sense of obligation to respond. Others will be facing a different reality as funds are tighter. Whatever our circumstances, this Advent journey gives us an opportunity to reflect.

This year’s territorial Advent theme is Comfort and Joy and a series of reflections in Salvationist over the coming weeks will, I hope, help us all to focus on this. Comfort in a Christian context is about reassurance that, despite the seeming turmoil around us, we can be comforted by the significance of this tiny baby coming to live among us – Immanuel, God with us.

There is perhaps no greater joy in a human context than the miracle of a baby. God knows that we need something to be joyful about and the gift of his son gives us that.

As we each begin our journey towards the manger, may we be comforted that God is with us and may we know the joy that only he can bring.

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor

ON THE WEBSITE Visit salvationist.org.uk Right Tracks Why we need new kids’ Christmas songs O Come, O Come…

Listen to Salvationist Radio’s Advent podcast

SUBSCRIBE TO GET YOUR WEEKLY COPY For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p/80c 2 December 2023

SALVATIONIST

5 ARTISTS’ CORNER

8 ADVENT REFLECTION

10+11 6+7 JOY WEBB AND CHRISTMAS

SALVATIONIST Issue No 1938 EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

FOUNDER William Booth

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101

CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

© The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

ISSN 2516-5909.

ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org

TIDINGS OF...

COMFORT AND JOY THIS ADVENT CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM RETIRED OFFICERS PAGES 12+13

2

Speak to your corps officer or sign up at sps-shop.com/ salvationist

Salvationist 2 December 2023

BIBLE STUDY

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton.

@SalvationistUKI

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

@SalvationistUKI

TRENDING

Breathe in…

At the beginning of Advent, Commissioner Anthony Cotterill reminds us not to rush through the season Advent is all about an arrival – and a release from being locked in. We need to intentionally keep stopping amid our loving busyness and receive comfort and joy in anticipation of the great celebration of Christ coming into the world.

Some of you will remember the little yellow supplementary Keep Singing songbook that was published in the mid-1970s. In there was a gem of the Joystrings: ‘When Jesus Comes to You’. I share the words to bless and encourage you as we head into Advent:

I

N the UK – and, dare I say, especially in the Army – there is a tendency to jump straight into Christmas without the necessary and beautiful build-up and experience of Advent. By the time most Brits get to the 12 days of Christmas, which start on 25 December, too many of us are almost done with Christmas.

I know of households where the Christmas decorations come down a day or so after Boxing Day! We have 12 days of celebrating Christmas – but after this gentle, yet intensive, period of preparation.

It’s a beautiful time, but only if we can just slow down enough to intentionally breathe in the Advent experience. And here lies the challenge – most of us, if not all of

Reflect and respond Watch the TC’s full video message at salvationist.org.uk/resources/ advent2023 and use it to prepare before music rehearsals, volunteer sessions or Sunday meetings.

What can you do to share comfort and joy with others this Christmas?

When can you pause this week and take in some comfort, joy and peace for yourself?

us, involved in Salvation Army service and ministry face the probability of running flat-out through December, sorting out toys, meals, clothing, food parcels, parties, planning carol services, playing and singing carols and 1,001 other things. Is it possible for us – busy us – to take in some comfort and joy as we journey these next weeks?

I certainly hope so.

One of my earliest memories as a four-year-old was being locked in a downstairs toilet – try as I did, I could not budge the lock, which I had locked from the inside. Eventually my parents heard my cries and came to my rescue – the tiny outside window was prised open and my dad appeared with a very long wooden clothes prop and proceeded to knock the bolt on the door until it sprang open! Anyone who has been trapped or locked in for any period of time knows the exhilaration of walking away free – with fresh air in your lungs and a spring in your step.

Theologian and pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer, imprisoned by the Nazis during the Second World War, wrote this to his fiancée on 21 November 1943: ‘A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes, does various unessential things, and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside … is not a bad picture of Advent.’

When Jesus comes to you, he’ll bring gladness, When Jesus comes to you, he’ll bring peace.

The glory of his presence from care will bring release, When Jesus, Jesus comes to you.

I love the fact that the shepherds were told that a Saviour is born ‘unto you’ (Luke 2:11 English Standard Version) – Jesus is a gift to the world, but such a personal gift to each of us. And we who love and serve him naturally want others to experience life in all its fullness with Jesus. We want people to be blessed and helped and inspired heading towards Christmas. I have no doubt we can be most effective in achieving this when we first receive and allow the dear Christ to enter in.

So I want to thank God for you all and for what you are going to do to bless the people we are called to serve in all our communities – may every carol played and sung, every meal served, every parcel wrapped, every message delivered be used for God. But I also want to urge us all to embrace the Advent season – don’t rush into Christmas without it! Make sure you don’t get locked in, or locked out, from the blessings that God has in store for you.

COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL Territorial Commander

Salvationist 2 December 2023

3

TESTIMONY

Quiz

‘I’m no longer angry Tidings of joy at God’ How much do you know about Major Joy Webb’s life and music?

by Garry D Reed 1

When was Joy admitted to the Order of the Founder?

2

What was the name of the Joystrings’ first hit single?

3

Which General indirectly invited Joy to form a ‘rhythm group’ in 1964?

4

Complete the title of this song

by Joy: ‘___ Can Be Every Day For You’.

5

Joy’s songs ‘As I Pray’ and ‘Share My Yoke’ were transcribed by Ivor Bosanko as solos for which instrument?

6

In 1977, Joy sang at the British memorial service for which American singer and actor?

7

The Joystrings recorded a version of ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ to which alternative tune?

8

Which of Joy’s LPs broke a Salvation Army record by selling more than one million copies?

9

Which of Joy’s songs has been popular with primary schools for many years?

10 Which tuned percussion instrument could Joy play?

11

Name the book in which Joy related the experiences and people that prompted the songs she composed.

O Listen to highlights from Salvationist

Radio’s The Life and Music of Joy Webb, featuring tributes and songs, at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

ANSWERS 1 2004 2 ‘It’s an Open Secret’ 3 Frederick Coutts 4 Christmas 5 Cornet 6 Elvis Presley 7 ‘House of the Rising Sun’ 8 ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’ 9 ‘A Starry Night’ 10 Vibraphone 11 Bridge of Songs

4

Salvationist 2 December 2023

Reuben Bond (Blackpool Citadel) shares how his faith has been strengthened

I

GREW up outside The Salvation Army as my dad was a Baptist minister. When I was younger, I never had any doubts because I had my own walking, talking Bible: my dad! I would ask him 20 billion questions about anything I could think of.

Looking back, I realise how irritating I must have been, but he had what seemed like boundless patience. However, my world turned upside down when my dad was diagnosed with cancer. This was something he battled for three years, which he tried to do with a smile on his face. He died shortly after my 13th birthday, and that was my world gone.

I was angry at the world. I thought the world owed me something, that it owed my dad something. I was angry at God for taking him away from me before he got to see me grow from a boy into a man. I felt so alone too, because now it was just me and my mum. I had promised my dad I would look after her.

It was probably at my first summer mmer school that I fell back in love with th God. I saw his people there, people who cared and loved God, who lived out that hat love to me. A Bible verse was shared from om Job 38:4: ‘Where were you when I made the Earth?’ (Easy-to-Read Version). I realised that I know nothing and cannott guess God’s plans. While my life would d be very different if my dad hadn’t died, I wouldn’t have been sat there or known these hese people and I wouldn’t have found nd my calling. I am the man I am today y because of my dad and what happened.. That’s not to mean I’ve let my loss define fine me, but rather God has used this experience to mould me.

I realised I should be thankful:: I got to spend 13 years with a wonderful erful man. I was blessed that I got that at long. I know lots of people whose se fathers are still alive but they have ave difficult relationships with them. m.

I’m no longer angry at God, because ecause I’ve accepted that he knows best. st. That doesn’t mean my pain is gone, but I’ve learnt to live with it and channel el it into

being more like God wants me to be.

Grief is like an elastic band. It’s always with you; sometimes it’s extended far away and then other days it snaps back and stings you. It’s OK to feel both. It’s OK to question God, because even Jesus did.

It’s OK to mourn who or what you’ve lost.

This doesn’t just apply to bereavement; lots of things in our lives can die or change.

So, I would say to anyone in pain that God knows what you’re going through because he went through it too. He loves you unconditionally. When you trust that he knows best and wants the best for you, the world is suddenly not such a scary place.

Have you got a testimony to share?

We’d love to hear your faith journey!

Get in touch at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk.

ARTISTS’ CORNER

WISEMAN

by Major Catherine Wyles (Rutherglen)

In this occasional series, Salvationists share artwork inspired by their faith

What does Wiseman depict?

It shows a silhouette of a king who is riding atop a camel – the traditional image that might come to mind when thinking about the wise men mentioned in the Nativity story. The camel is walking on the word ‘faith’, with each foot on a different letter. In the background are vibrant bursts of yellows and blues.

How was it made?

It was painted with acrylics on a plain canvas and built up in layers, from blue to yellow to black.

What inspired it?

When we look at the Christmas story, we often marvel at the faith of Mary as a young woman, or we marvel at the faith of the shepherds who left their flocks and acted on what they had been told by the angels. This painting, however, focuses on the faith displayed by the men who journeyed from a different country to discover the new-born King.

What faith it took to travel hundreds of miles with no guarantee of a welcome!

When young Israelites were exiled to Babylon in the 6th century BC (see Daniel 1), little could they know that the message of the one true God would echo down through hundreds of years. Little could they know that wise men from their part of the world would one day see and understand the signs in the heavens.

The faith of the wise men travelling to Bethlehem directly affected the coming of the Messiah. If they had not gone to Bethlehem with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, Joseph and Mary would never have been able to afford to escape to Egypt!

We never know who or what our obedient faith will affect. May God keep us faithful.

Have you created something inspired by your faith that you’d like to share in Artists’ Corner?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy. org.uk to find out more.

Salvationist Salvationist 2Day December 19 August Salvationist Month 2023

5 00

BIBLE STUDY

Born of the Spirit Captain Naomi Kelly begins an Advent series with a reminder of Mary’s willing involvement in God’s plan to save us LUKE 1:26–38

M

Y dad was a great storyteller.

One story he told was about a school trip to the zoo when he was 10 years old. He recalled how he and his friends watched the penguin parade, and the hilarity as they did so.

He claimed that, during their homeward bus journey, one of the children pulled back their coat to reveal that they had taken one of the penguins. He told it with such conviction that I honestly couldn’t tell you if the story was true.

No one verified my dad’s story. There was no report in the local newspaper.

Years later, there is no one, other than my dad, retelling that story.

PAUSE AND REFLECT How can you tell if a story is true?

There is so much within the story of Jesus that seems too extreme to be true. We struggle to understand how some of the things happened. Perhaps this is because these things are of God. Our study passage in Luke, and also the account in Matthew 1:18–25, tells the story of Mary conceiving a child – God’s son, Jesus, who will save his people. Some details may differ, yet they have the same outcome: in each account, an angel of the Lord tells of the birth of the Son of God through an immaculate conception (see Matthew 1:20 and Luke 1:35). These two Gospel writers lead us to a belief that the story must, in fact, be true.

Evelyn Underhill, English writer and pacifist, is quoted as saying: ‘If God were 6

Salvationist 2 December 2023

small enough to be understood, he would not be big enough to be worshipped.’

Ultimately, we are not God. We can try to understand him, but we will be forever learning. It never ceases to amaze me that theologians can study God their whole lives and still not understand him completely. However, as Evelyn Underhill suggests, an all-powerful God who is worthy of our worship is not small enough to be understood.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Have you ever seen God do something beyond explanation?

Have you ever prayed for something and been surprised when it happened?

An angel announces to Mary that the Holy Spirit will be upon her: ‘The power of the Most High will overshadow you’ (v35). Not only is she being told that the Spirit is going to enable her to do something otherwise thought impossible, but also that God will be there to look after her completely.

To be overshadowed by something is to be covered by it totally. Mary must have been terrified when the angel appeared to her and perhaps even more terrified when she came to learn that she, a virgin, was going to give birth to a child. And not just any child – the Son of God! To then learn that the Most High would overshadow her must have been very comforting indeed.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Think of a time you have been scared. What brought you comfort?

Is there something in your life that you need God to be an overshadowing presence over?

Notice the way that Mary ends her encounter with the angel. She answers: ‘I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled’ (v38).

Ultimately, Mary was a poor, young woman. In those days, this might make her appear unsuitable to be used for any of God’s major works. Yet God still chose Mary to be involved in his work of salvation, and that demanded her willingness and obedience.

We can read about other times in the Bible when God chooses someone unlikely to fulfil a purpose. Despite Moses being ‘slow of speech and tongue’, God chose him to speak to his people and to Pharaoh (see Exodus 4:10). David was only a young, shepherd boy when God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint him to be king (see 1 Samuel 16). Although Saul had murderous intent against the Lord’s disciples, Jesus chose him to take the message to the Gentiles, their kings and the people of Israel (see Acts 9:1–19).

Sadly, it is often the case that people lack self-belief. We think we are not good enough, not clever enough, too old or lack experience. By thinking these things, we effectively limit God’s choices.

Mary very clearly said ‘yes’ to God. This was a decision that led to a lot of heartache for her. Although she was

Prayer Matters contains daily devotions covering specific areas in the territory, current worldwide situations and personal reflection and relationship with God. A PDF of the unedited booklet is available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources.

In December prayers will be centred on Jesus, the gift to all humankind.

VALUES FOCUS

by Major Beverly Baker (Senior Personnel Officer) SATURDAY 2 DECEMBER – MUTUAL ACCOUNTABILITY Lord, thank you that I am a part of the body of Christ (see 1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Help me play my part for the common good, responsibly and collaboratively, in ways that empower and equip. Help me to graciously offer and receive feedback when attitudes or actions of myself or others are unhelpful (see Matthew 18:15). Help me serve as a faithful steward (see 1 Peter 4:10). Amen.

ADVENT FOCUS

by Major Gary Lacey (Territorial Prayer Network Co-ordinator) richly blessed by having such a great honour bestowed upon her, it came with a lot of hardship. Her peers would have ridiculed her. Joseph, her fiancé, considered leaving her. Imagine her family’s reaction to her news! Later, Mary watched as her son, Jesus, suffered unimaginable pain dying on a cross. Just because she was chosen by God and blessed, that did not mean life would be plain sailing for her.

This serves as a useful reminder for us as we experience hardships in life. Often, although we pray and seek to follow God’s leading, the way is still tough.

Remember Mary’s story when you feel these pains and frustrations.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Think of a time you followed God’s leading. How did you know it was of God? What difficulties did you encounter?

When God sent his angel to Mary, she submitted herself fully to him. She felt afraid but was full of faith. It would have been easier for her to say, ‘Not me, Lord, I can’t do it.’ Instead, she trusted God and allowed herself to be used in a mighty way. Let her example serve as a reminder to us that God can use anyone. Even us.

CAPTAIN NAOMI KELLY Corps Officer Middlesbrough Citadel

SUNDAY 3 DECEMBER – ‘GOD REST YOU MERRY, GENTLEMEN, LET NOTHING YOU DISMAY’ Read Deuteronomy 31:8. Father in Heaven, we recognise your birth as a symbol of your total care for humanity. While dismay comes to us all and seeps into our lives, thank you that we can rest in the power of your love. I bring myself, my family, my friends and my community before you. Bring them comfort and joy. Amen.

MONDAY 4 DECEMBER – ‘FOR JESUS CHRIST, OUR SAVIOUR, WAS BORN UPON THIS DAY’ Read Isaiah 9:6 and 7. Saviour, as we remember your birth, help us to remember this event as fact and truth. We want the world to know the truth in our times and the times to come, and we bring to you those who don’t know who you are or have stepped out of a relationship with you. Amen.

TUESDAY 5 DECEMBER – ‘TO SAVE US ALL FROM SATAN’S POWER WHEN WE WERE GONE ASTRAY’ Read 2 Timothy 4:18. Jesus, my protector, thank you that you save us all from the power that Satan tries to wield over this world. We bring before you those who need you desperately. Amen.

WEDNESDAY 6 DECEMBER – ‘TIDINGS OF COMFORT’ Read Psalm 23:4. Oh, my amazing comforter, I love you more than words can express. We acknowledge that the word ‘tidings’ means information and news, so we celebrate the spectacular news that you came to bring comfort. I bring all the uncomfortable situations that come to my mind right now before you, both in my life and in the lives of others, and ask that your comfort will envelop us. Amen.

THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER – ‘TIDINGS OF COMFORT AND JOY’ Read Psalm 47:1. Father, thank you for the joy you bring to our lives. I pray for all those who are sad; bless them with a smile today. Lord, shower us with your Spirit of joy as we focus on you. Amen.

FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER Read Isaiah 52:7. Lord God, we praise you for blessing us with your presence in the world. Amen.

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 and the Territorial Prayer Network will uphold them in prayer.

REFLECTION

Tidings that stand the test of time

Comfort

In a series of Advent reflections, Major Malcolm Martin considers what God’s promise of comfort and joy looks like today

L

AST December saw a degree of outrage in some circles when it emerged that one church had used an alternative version of ‘God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen’. Replacement verses, intended to make the carol more inclusive, included such lines as: ‘God rest you also, women,/ Who by men have been erased’ and ‘God rest you, queer and questioning,/ Your anxious hearts be still’.

These additions were viewed by critics as promoting ideology instead of the gospel. Updating the lyrics to one of the oldest English-language carols was always going to be a touchy subject. The carol may date back to at least the 17th century and the phrase ‘rest you merry’ – meaning ‘remain in peace and happiness’ – was used in a couple of Shakespeare’s plays. On occasions a shifting comma has linked ‘merry’ with ‘gentlemen’, giving the first line of the song a somewhat different sentiment.

Even Charles Dickens made this mistake in A Christmas Carol, although it seems likely that Scrooge would have had as little time for resting merry as he did for merry gentlemen.

Across all versions of the carol, the abiding theme is that the Christmas message is one that brings tidings of comfort and joy – two things frequently expressed in the Bible. The familiar words of Isaiah 40:1–5 offer such a message:

‘“Comfort my people,” says our God… “Tell them they have suffered long enough and their sins are now forgiven…” A voice cries out, “Prepare in the wilderness a road for the Lord! Clear the way in the desert for our God! Fill every valley; level every mountain… Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed”’ (Good News Bible).

This promise was offered to a people in exile, who had suffered the destruction of their city, but God’s words of comfort speak across the centuries to people in situations of despair who need to know the comfort of his presence. The Jewish theologian Abraham Heschel said of this passage: ‘No words have ever gone further in offering comfort when the sick world cries.’

The verses include a focus on action, on God who comes to offer aid in a context of despair, who inspires people to prepare the way for the glory of the Lord. The image of a way in the wilderness both recalls the Exodus event and reverses the vision of Ezekiel 11, where God’s glory has left the building and the city. But this message is not just for the people in exile: ‘all people’ (v5) will see the glory of the Lord.

In a similar way, the Christmas message of comfort and joy is not just for Christians gathering for their carol services, but for the whole world. Events still often seem to replace comfort with

JOY

AND

suffering and despair, while some people seem to find joy only in the misfortune and downfall of others. We need a deeper sense of comfort and joy that can cut through despair to bring true hope.

At the end of Isaiah 40 we see hope in the impact of God’s comforting presence on the lives of individuals: ‘Those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like eagles’ (v31 GNB).

The period of Advent is a valuable opportunity to consider how we are preparing to celebrate the coming of the Lord. Are there mountains and hills of pride and selfishness that need to be levelled? Are there valleys of hopelessness and despair that need to be lifted up? Do we need to renew our trust in the Lord, so that we might find our strength renewed?

The final verse of those updated lyrics to ‘God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen’ offers these lines: ‘God rest your mind, O humankind/ Let strife and conflict cease.’

That prayer is badly needed in today’s world.

O Explore Comfort and Joy resources at salvationist.org.uk/resources/advent2023.

MAJOR MALCOLM MARTIN M Corps Officer Thornton Heath

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy!

8

Salvationist 2 December 2023

SA WORSHIP CONFERENCE REPORT

Pictures: Hannah Henderson

Focusing on the heart of worship WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE PEOPLE from across the territory and beyond gathered to be part of the inaugural SA Worship Conference, reports Dan Elson (Music and Creative Arts).

Whether using the ‘rhythm group’ terminology of the 1960s or the phrase ‘worship team’ often heard today, contemporary worship music has been, is, and will continue to be one part of The Salvation Army’s rich musical heritage. It is perhaps fitting that while many are reflecting on the impact of Major Joy Webb and the Joystrings – not only on Salvation Army music-making but also on how music could be used across the wider Christian Church – the conference invited people to spend time focusing on how musical gifts can be offered up in worship to God. Open to anyone with a passion for sung worship within Salvation Army settings, the conference saw about 60 participants singing, praying, reflecting, learning and, above all, worshipping together under the theme of coming back to the heart of worship.

It opened with a challenge from Naar M’fundisi-Holloway (Research and Development) to come back to the Lord and cast aside the distractions and diversions of everyday life, which can become barriers to true worship.

“

Everyone was reminded that musical competency alone is not worship.

”

Guests Geraldine Latty and Carey Luce led vocal and keyboard seminars, where delegates took the opportunity to develop instrument-specific skills and techniques, before delivering a powerful session of teaching on the seven C’s of keeping Christ at the heart of corporate worship.

Members of the weekend’s house band offered seminars on guitar, drums and bass guitar. With the challenges and lessons of the day’s teaching fresh in our minds, our hearts and eyes were directed towards Jesus as Geraldine and Carey led an exuberant evening session filled with the joy of the Lord. It included sung prayer and even a touch of salsa dancing!

Sunday morning opened with Dan Bate (Preston) leading a stripped-back session of worship before A&R manager and producer Les Moir spoke about

worshipping in the Spirit and in truth.

Further seminars included audiovisual media, song writing and leading worship, before a final all-together session where Captain Callum McKenna (William Booth College) challenged us to consider how leading worship relies on a combination of calling, competency and character.

He reminded everyone present that musical competency alone is not a true offering of worship and that we must return to the heart of worship to serve the Lord well.

This led to a powerful time of response where the makeshift mercy seat was repeatedly extended to accommodate delegates who had been invited forward to surrender their all as a living act of worship.

As the last notes of the house band rang in the air and the weekend concluded, there was a clear desire for more: more opportunities to gather with like-minded Christians and explore freedom in worship; more opportunities to develop practical skills that can be used to serve in local settings; more new songs to the Lord from songwriters inspired by being in his presence; and above all a desire to seek more of who God is in our lives.

Salvationist 2 December 2023

9

REFLECTION

Come into our world Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts reflects on the seasonal songs of Major Joy Webb

E

VERY year in early December, large crowds gather in London’s Trafalgar Square at a tall Christmas tree – a traditional gift from Norway – for the tree-lighting ceremony. A Salvation Army band has often provided carols for the occasion, but in 1964 the music had a very different sound: the event was being televised and the Joystrings were to premiere a new song, ‘A Starry Night’, written by Joy Webb.

The single reached number 34 in the charts and this captivating song about the boy who was born in a cattle shed has remained a Christmas favourite ever since. The lyrics of the second verse say about the shepherds: ‘And their hearts believed again for the peace of men,/ For a boy was born, King of all the world.’

In these days, as we intercede for places where hatred and destruction are still so rife, I wonder if our prayers find an echo in those poignant words?

In October this year, Joy was promoted to Glory, and many tributes were paid to her creative gifts and the lasting legacy of her words and music.

At least a dozen of her songs have a Christmas theme. Perhaps there will be a moment this Advent when you hear

10

Salvationist 2 December 2023

one and the themes of her writing will come to mind.

‘A Starry Night’ is probably the best known, closely followed by ‘Noel’, beloved of several generations of singing company members. Some of the songs – such as ‘Sweet Mary’s Boy’, ‘Rainbow Christmas’ and ‘That Night in Bethlehem’ – were originally written for children’s voices and they capture the beauty and wonder of the Nativity. Who could fail to be moved when children’s voices sing ‘Sweet Mary’s boy, you bring us joy;/ Welcome, welcome, sweet Mary’s boy’?

‘The Surprise’ includes the familiar story of the baby and the angels, but also challenges us to consider the impact of God arriving in our world in this way. The refrain says: ‘Here for a moment again today, in the midst of all you must do,/ Let the surprise catch your heart once more, making the old story new.’

Verse 3 refers to the heart listening to a story it has often heard before, then suddenly catching ‘a glimpse of its meaning’. Here is a theophany, a surprising encounter with God who comes to us in the ordinary everyday pattern of our lives. May there be a moment of encounter for each of us

this Christmas amid all we must do.

‘Christmas Can Be Every Day for You’ encourages us to live out the message of love and joy and peace. There are so many opportunities to share the gospel in our communities in all kinds of practical ways at Christmas. Yet how might we continue to offer hospitality and care in every season? As the song reminds us: ‘If the love this child imparts can be held within your heart,/ Then Christmas can be every day for you.’

‘World Without Christmas’, ‘The Reason for Christmas’ and ‘That Night in Bethlehem’ invite us to consider the impact the birth of Jesus had upon our world and on individuals who follow Christ. Jesus came to walk among us humbly, as one who serves. How we live as his faithful disciples, making a difference wherever we go, is a theme we repeatedly find in Joy’s Christmas songs.

She was a gifted wordsmith who could create an engaging narrative and articulate the questions that still fill our hearts and minds when we think about our world in the context of Christ’s Incarnation.

Some of Joy’s songs are heard at other times of year, but also have powerful messages that capture humankind’s longing for peace and healing to flow into our world. One of these is ‘Candle of the Lord’, which captures the vision of God’s people receiving Christ – the Light of the world – and ministering in his name.

The second verse paints a dynamic picture of individuals joining together and bringing transformation:

How bright the light is from soul to soul, A myriad tiny flames expanding to a whole, How strange the truth is when joined as one, And what a miracle this shining could become; It could transform the darkness that we know, And clearly light the way mankind must try to go.

Here is a vision that has inspired my colleagues in the Territorial Prayer Network in recent days. We are seeking to kindle furnaces of prayer throughout this territory, people who will intercede for the mission of The Salvation Army and pray for unity in the Holy Spirit. Each person can be a tiny flame with the potential to bring the transforming power of Jesus.

Joy also captured a prayer for transformation in ‘Come Into Our World’.

The song portrays a world ruled by darkness, where ‘people sit in loneliness, children cry for bread, men fight men in hatred, by suspicion led’. It is heart-breaking to think that those words could have been written in recent days. But there is always hope, always a prayer, always an expression of our need of Jesus: ‘And if we needed you, we need you now,/ Come, Lord Jesus, come.’

LIEUT-COLONEL JAYNE ROBERTS LIE Spiritual Life Development Secretary THQ

Salvationist 2 December 2023

11

Christmas from retire Immanuel – warmest greetings for Christmas and the new year to all our friends, from Majors Ann and Rita Andrews Major Noel Baker sends Christmas greetings to all his many friends. May the good Lord be with you in 2024.

Enjoying retirement, we thank God for Christmas as we pray for colleagues, friends and the ministry of The Salvation Army.

Majors Jorgen and Libbet Booth

Wishing all my friends and colleagues a happy Christmas and a blessed and peaceful new year.

Major Pat Charlesworth God bless you and yours in Jesus’ name.

Major Mildred Crookes ‘Tell them of the baby in the manger laid, sent from Heaven above… Tell it out with a shout!’ High five!

Majors David and Sandra Dalziel

Major Dorothy (Dodie) Brevitt wishes all friends and colleagues the peace and presence of God this Christmas.

May the joy, peace and love that Christmas brings be yours now and in the coming year.

Major Rene Davey

Christmas and new year greetings to friends far and near. God bless you all.

Major Dorothy Caddy

Emmanuel – God is with us at Christmas, new year and always! The season’s warmest greetings from Lieut-Colonel Jill Girling.

Girling

12

Salvationist 2 December 2023

greetings d officers This Christmas, may God grant you joy and every spiritual blessing in Christ.

Majors Kath and Mel Jones Wishing joy, peace and llove to all my friends and colleagues at this time.

Major Patricia Kent

Shalom to you and all humankind at this season of peace and goodwill – if only!

Lieut-Colonels Ray and Joan Kirby May God’s blessing rest upon you all at Christmas and throughout 2024.

Major Christine Marriott Major Pamela Saunders would like to send Christmas greetings to all her friends, and God’s blessings for the new year.

Commissioner Margaret Sutherland sends Christmas greetings to all friends and colleagues. God bless you all.

E Emmanuel!

God is with us!

Thoughts, prayers, thanks to God for you.

Major Georgina Thompson Major Nanella Weir sends Christmas greetings to all her friends and blessings for 2024.

Christmas greetings to all our friends and God’s blessing for the new year.

Lieut-Colonels Mike and Ruth Williams Wishing you peace and joy at Christmas.

Happy memories of serving together.

Lieut-Colonels Joyce and Mervyn Woodman Salvationist 2 December 2023

13

ARMY UPDATES

MODERN SLAVERY

Football tournament for survivors BIRMINGHAM THE inaugural football tournament for survivors of human trafficking and modern slavery brought together 11 teams from safe houses and outreach services.

The tournament celebrated the achievements of survivors, both on and off the pitch, and how far they have come as they move on from experiences of exploitation.

The event coincided with the release of new figures showing a 5 per cent increase from last year in the number of modern slavery survivors supported by the Army through the government’s Modern Slavery Victim Care Contract.

The winning team were survivors supported by the Army’s London-based partner organisation, Hestia. – AR

REMEMBRANCE WATERBEACH The corps joined with the village’s other churches for a Remembrance Sunday service at the war memorial. The band contributed hymns and Bandmaster Joe McLelland (pictured) sounded the Last Post.– DC-H

REMEMBRANCE AYLESBURY Corps Treasurer Michael Power sounded the Last Post and Reveille at the war memorial in the town cemetery. More than 150 people congregated to remember and observe the two-minute silence. – MP

REMEMBRANCE SHERINGHAM Mustering outside the hall, the remembrance parade marched through the town to the war memorial, where a large crowd listened to music from the band and observed the laying of poppy wreaths. – MG

EVENT

COMMUNITY Major Sallywag from Norwich Mile Cross Corps takes part in a scarecrow festival

MUSIC

HOMELESSNESS ST ALBANS Together with volunteers from homelessness charity Centre 33, the corps has opened its doors to dozens of people experiencing homelessness, including former prisoners, people in temporary shelters, survivors of domestic violence and people struggling to pay bills. The mayor of St Albans, Councillor Anthony Rowlands, praised such initiatives on a recent visit. – BH 14

Salvationist 2 December 2023

SALE More than 450 people attended a Disney proms concert, featuring items by soloist Jackie Choi and the corps band.

The Young in Heart Choir also performed two Disney-themed songs, as did the songsters and the Kids Alive Brass Group.

Special guests Wellfield Primary School Choir sang with boundless energy. Corps officer Major Ann Montgomery shared words of encouragement and challenge from 1 Peter 1:3–5. – AM SHEFFIELD CITADEL A wonderful evening of music was performed to a packed hall by Sheffield NHS Choir and Dronfield Genquip Band. Funds were raised for the Big Collection. – VS

WELLING A Light Party gave families a fun, Jesus-orientated alternative to Halloween. Children dressed as their favourite things and made colourful light jars, autumn wreathes and hedgehogs. A worship party included instruments and glow sticks and ended with a story and prayer time. Outside, church members handed out Kids Alive!, colouring packs, glow sticks and sweets to families passing by. – KS

REMEMBRANCE

REMEMBRANCE

REMEMBRANCE FARCET The charity shop window featured uniform and medals belonging to local serviceman, Corporal Lee Fitzsimmons.

He was killed in action in Iraq in 2007 aged 26. Shop volunteers Maddie and Helen decorated the display. – CB

REMEMBRANCE

PENARTH The Vale of Glamorgan Brass Band presented a concert titled War and Peace for Armistice. Pieces included the ‘Colonel Bogey March’ and the songsters sang ‘He Knows My Name’. The knit and natter group made more than 270 poppies for the weekend. – CP

The Perth Corps poppy wreath joins others laid at a well-attended Armistice Day ceremony

REMEMBRANCE

REMEMBRANCE

A remembrance display in Ipswich Citadel’s foyer reminds people of sacrifices made

ANNIVERSARY HAMILTON Divisional Commander Major Janet Robson led the 138th corps anniversary celebrations. A celebration cake was enjoyed at coffee fellowship after the meeting.

Pictured cutting it are number one on the roll, Recruiting Sergeant Mary Howie, and the newest soldier, Alice Wilson. – WL

STAPLE HILL The corps led the annual remembrance parade around the war memorial in Page Park. Hundreds gathered to pay tribute, including civic leaders, cadet forces and members of the emergency services. Corps officer Major Colin Hylton-Jones led the service and the corps wreath was laid by Kay Willetts. – HB

A knitted poppy display by Swindon Gorse Hill’s Crafty Chat and Coffee group pays tribute for Remembrance Sunday

REMEMBRANCE

EVENT BRIDGWATER David Stanley led a Music Man session with six ambassadors, along with Chris Stringer and Joanne Graham (both THQ) from the Enabled team. More than 60 people learnt new songs, danced, sang solos and played percussion instruments. The corps plans to launch a regular group in January. – HC

CHATTERIS The corps hosted a Poppy Appeal concert in partnership with the Royal British Legion. CSM Anese Tomkinson compèred the evening, which featured Cambridge Citadel Band, Upwell Gilbert and Sullivan Society Choir and Chatteris Community Choir.

The event raised more than £600. – IT Salvationist 2 December 2023

15

ARMY UPDATES

REMEMBRANCE

REMEMBRANCE

SOUTHPORT The band performed at a remembrance concert alongside singer Samantha Keen and euphonium soloist Jim Ely (Castleford), raising more than £1,200 for the Army’s International Emergency Services and the Royal British Legion.

The evening included the world premiere of the piece ‘Armistice at Flanders Fields’. Band members were also privileged to take part in marching at the town remembrance service. – PW

REMEMBRANCE

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL The band led the city’s Remembrance Sunday march for hundreds of servicemen and women, veterans and volunteers. Matthew Frost sounded the Last Post. During the week, junior band members Ellen, Molly, Jonathan, Oliver and Oscar, also sounded the Last Post at school services. – RO

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

RUTHERGLEN Eighty people attended the annual fun day.

Young folk enjoyed a bouncy castle, face painting and other activities. An old-style fairground organ and a visit from the fire service added to the day. – DM 16

Salvationist 2 December 2023

CHATTERIS Junior soldier Grace, an air cadet at RAF Wyton and member of her school’s Combined Cadet Force, took part in four services of remembrance. She also carried the Royal British Legion Women’s Section standard for the St Ives, Cambridgeshire, parade. – IT CIRENCESTER The band provided music for remembrance services in Barnsley, Ablington and at the Church of St Mary in Bibury. The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Bandsman David Grace, Songster Leader Helen Grace and Corps Treasurer Mark Walters. Mark also participated in the service at Cirencester Kingshill School. – MG

CHILDREN AND YOUTH TENBY Cardiff Canton’s youth group, Canton Revival, visited the corps, stressing the importance of reflecting Jesus’ light. Corps folk challenged the youth to stay true to themselves and close to Jesus. Cake, music and fellowship were enjoyed by all. – DW

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

STAPLE HILL A celebration weekend began with the young people taking part in water sports and games at an adventure park, followed by games, fun and food at Bristol Kingswood.

Corps officer Major Colin Hylton-Jones led Sunday worship on the story of Noah. The YP band and learners, the singing company and the primary brought items and each member received a prize. – VW

NEW COMMITMENTS

DUBLIN CITY

VALENTINA Chukwuemeka was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Mark Waghorn.

Valentina started work at a Lifehouse in Dublin in early 2022 and was impressed by the Army’s faith in action, which led her to attend the corps to find out more. Valentina felt welcome and wanted to be part of the fellowship and mission of the corps. – MW

LINCOLN

LEICESTER WEST

CHELSEA Musiiwa, Annah Chiradza and Mark and Phillipa Ward were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Lieutenant Liam Beattie. All had very different testimonies of how God had been faithful in their lives, but universally testified to the loving investment they had felt from the corps family. They bonded during their membership classes and have been dubbed the ‘Crusaders of the Cross’ within the corps. They want to serve the Lord and look forward to seeing how their journeys develop. – LB

SOUTHAMPTON SHIRLEY

ESTHER, Sam, Ryan, Amelia and David were enrolled as junior soldiers by Cadet Lizzy Kitchenside. The corps fellowship celebrated God’s abundant harvest in the lives and commitments made, singing ‘Shine (From the Inside Out)’ as their prayer for the young people at the corps. – EK

SHIREBROOK ESME Flegg, Terry Brackstone, Mike Davis and Margaret Flegg were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Captain Martin Crawford, and Valerie Smith (front centre) was re-enrolled as a recommitment to her soldier’s covenant. Each testified to God’s work and provision in their lives, and in bringing them to the Army, their spiritual home. They are pictured with corps officer Captain Victoria Crawford and Recruiting Sergeant Kevin Unwin. – VC

STEPH and John Stevens were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Captain David White. John read a very moving joint testimony about their journey over the past year, overcoming difficult times and finding amazing strength in the Lord. They have committed themselves to him, along with their three children who have become junior soldiers. The family are a wonderful addition to the corps. – LW

WHAT DOES BEING A SOLDIER OR ADHERENT MEAN? Find out more about membership of The Salvation Army and the different ways in which you can make a spiritual commitment at salvationist.org.uk/membership.

Salvationist 2 December 2023

17

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

Appointed Effective 1 January 2024 LIEUT-COLONEL JONATHAN ROBERTS, divisional commander, Wales Division Effective 4 January 2024 MAJOR JONATHAN PAYNE, operational buyer, Procurement Unit, Business Administration Service MAJOR MIMMIE PAYNE, associate officer, Chalk Farm

Local officers appointed

ENGAGEMENTS General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Wed 6 Dec – Sun 17 Dec New Zealand and Fiji

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Territorial Leader for Leader Development Commissioner Gill Cotterill Sat 2 Dec – Sun 3 Dec Hendon Tue 5 Dec Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army) Wed 13 Dec Westminster (Parliamentary carol service)

ASST CS SHEILA HOPTON, Newcastle City Temple

Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Jenine Main

Wedding anniversaries

Tue 5 Dec Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army) Wed 13 Dec Westminster (Parliamentary carol service)

Diamond (60 years) MAJORS MAVIS AND RAYMOND MACKERETH on 15 December Golden (50 years) MAJORS ELLEN AND RICHARD CUSHING on 15 December

NOTICES

Poetry Corner

PRIMROSE SOUTER, daughter of Claire and Harry Souter, at Petersfield by Major Mike Harris

Poetry Corner will return for the 23 December Christmas issue of Salvationist. If you have a Christmas-inspired poem you would like to share, please email it to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk for consideration by 11 December.

Retired officers’ birthdays

The Red Chair Project

CAPTAIN DOROTHY ADAMS, 90 on 11 December

Join the Red Chair Project (25 November to 10 December) by placing a red, or red-covered, chair in your hall or centre to raise awareness of and open up discussion around violence against women and girls.

Resources, including signs, prayers and sermon notes, are available from restored-uk.org. Share your photos of the Red Chair Project with Family Ministries at familyministries@salvationarmy.org.uk.

Dedicated to God

MAJOR KATHERINE FOREMAN, 85 on 11 December MAJOR DIANE BOYD, 80 on 15 December COLONEL PEARL JONES, 85 on 17 December

Promoted to Glory NICKY REES, Skewen PEARL AMBROSE, Stowmarket S/RESERVIST EVELYN CHEEK, Chelmsford, on 3 November AUDREY ADCOCK, Derby Central, on 9 November SONGSTER MARGARET THOMAS, Bath Citadel, on 10 November MAISIE HAMILTON, Belfast Sydenham, on 13 November

Covenant Sunday 2024 Covenant Sunday (7 January) will be themed Living in God’s Covenant – Our Faithful Response. It provides an opportunity to respond to God’s invitation of living in a committed, faithful relationship with him. Resources are available at salvationist.org. uk/resources/covenant-sunday-2024.

SOUNDS

Bereaved

Sunday Worship

ANN REES, Skewen, of her husband Nicky Rees, Caroline Rees-Purcell and Chris Rees of their father

This week’s Sunday Worship is led by Major Malcolm Martin (Thornton Heath). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

STEVEN AMBROSE, Stowmarket, and Libby Winton, Felixstowe, of their mother Pearl Ambrose, Wendy Holden and Colin Baker, both Stowmarket, of their sister BANDSMAN RAY CHEEK, Chelmsford, of his wife S/Reservist Evelyn Cheek, Bandsman Adrian Cheek, Chelmsford, of his mother CAPTAIN WAYNE ADCOCK, Guildford, Susan Thomas, Debra Hands and Christopher Adcock of their mother Audrey Adcock BANDSMAN KEITH THOMAS, Bath Citadel, of his wife Songster Margaret Thomas MAJOR CINDY STANFORD, Belfast Temple, Thomas Hamilton and Alice Irvine of their mother Maisie Hamilton

18

Salvationist 2 December 2023

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

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel Reflect on the words of Christmas carols in this weekly Advent devotional podcast, inspired by the book of the same name.

Episodes are released each Friday. This week, War Cry Editor Major Andrew Stone talks about ‘Little Donkey’.

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

ADVERTS

A Gift for Christmas

HYTHE, KENT

CLASSIC HYMNS FOR ORCHESTRA

SHORTSTAYAWAY

Arranged by Kenneth Downie

HOLIDAY COTTAGE TO LET

CD available from kennethfdownie@gmail.com £12 plus postage and packaging (£3 inland)

Two double bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom and lounge Country and sea views

ADVERTISING RATES

15 mins to Ashford and 15 mins to Dover 5 mins to Channel Tunnel

ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT shortstayaway.co.uk enquiries@shortstayaway.co.uk 01303 238298

TYPE

SIZE

1 ISSUE

3 ISSUES

Classified listing

Up to 25 words

£9

£20

Classified listing

Up to 50 words

£18

£40

TO LET

Small box (1/32nd page)

30mm x 43mm

£15

£40

Medium box (1/16th page)

30mm x 89mm

£35

£85

MAJORCA Beautiful, well-equipped apartment. Two double bedrooms (sleeps 2–6). Walk-in shower. Near seafront amenities. Large balcony, lovely view, quiet area. Competitive prices. Carol@ckendall.co.uk.

Tel: 01274 678889 / 07308506064.

Large box (1/8th page)

62mm x 89mm

£65

£170

Quarter page

89mm x 127mm

£170

£440

Half page

127mm x 181mm

£340

£850

Full back page

181mm x 258mm

£675

£1,650

ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion.

SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY OPTIONS

in the UK and overseas holyhols.co.uk ‘by Christians for Christians’

For more details email advertising@ salvationarmy.org.uk.

1998 ~ MGS ~ 2023 Marriage Guidance Services After 25 years of providing free professional counselling and couple relationship support, as of 1 December, Marriage Guidance Services closes its doors for the last time.

The long and hard work of those within and outside The Salvation Army has not gone unnoticed, with MGS providing support and counselling in the UK, USA and Spain. We thank and praise God for 25 years of ministry, offering a heartfelt thank you to the army of counsellors and colleagues who worked so tirelessly along the way.

Wishing Salvationist readers a wonderful Christmas, full of love, peace and joy!

Major Jorgen Booth Founder/Director of MGS 36 Emmbrook Court, Woolacombe Drive, Reading RG6 5TZ. Tel: 07711 148538

Be a Star and raise funds for your corps this Christmas It’s not too early to be thinking about Christmas!!!

The Community and Events Team have created a suite of ideas to help corps fundraise this Christmas under the theme of ‘Be a STAR’, which came out of one of our corps focus groups. We have designed posters and banners that you can personalise and use for your Facebook and social media pages to help you promote what you are doing this year and raise EXTRA funds. Here are some examples of the concepts 7hey can also be found here: salvationist.org.uk/christmasfundraising

Please get in touch with us at challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information, to let us know how we can support you – or to share your ideas for corps fundraising DW &KULVWPDV $V HYHU ZH ZLOO DOVR KDYH D VHFWLRQ RQ 2XU+XE ZKHUH \RX FDQ ÀQG our Christmas resources.

Here’s ho-ho-hoping for a great festive fundraising season!

Christmas Appeal

The Salvation Army Trustee Company acting as Trustee of The Salvation Army Trust (Central Funds). A Christian Church and Registered Charity No. 2147 9 and in Scotland SC009359.

The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, 1 Champion Park, London SE 8FJ.