Salvationist 30 November 2019

SALVATIONIST

No.1733 Price 70p

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 30 November 2019

Inspired to act

How a trip to Kenya led to action at home

PLUS RETIRED OFFICERS CHRISTMAS GREETINGS

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

APP SEEKS TO FACILITATE DONATING TO FOOD BANKS

CHURCH OF ENGLAND OFFERS MEA CULPA ON ANTISEMITISM

HUMANISTS UK LAUNCH RELIGIOUS-FREE ASSEMBLY MATERIALS FOR SCHOOLS

An app developed by a Christian entrepreneur is taking aim at the familiar problem of food banks having years’ worth of tinned tomatoes, but no fresh fruit.

The app, Bankuet, works by having food banks specify the food items that they actually need.

Those who want to donate to the hungry, but may not have the time or knowledge, can then log into the app and virtually buy the items listed by the food bank in their area.

Bankuet then takes the money given, buys parcels of food, and arranges for it to be delivered directly to the food bank at a convenient time.

The man behind the start-up, Robin Ferris, said that the ‘lightbulb moment’ came last year, after he had set up his own food collection point at his local supermarket…

‘I thought: “There must be an easier way of doing this: why isn’t there an online food bank?”’…

It is now funnelling supplies to six food banks, and many more are due to be added in the coming months.

‘Lots of food banks at the minute have an oversupply of pasta and baked beans,’ he said. ‘As we’re coming up to Christmas, people are now donating mince pies, which actually creates a huge problem for food banks... The only things you see on Bankuet are specifically what the food bank has asked for.’

Christians are to blame for centuries of antisemitism which led to the Holocaust and prejudice in modern politics, the Church of England has said, offering its ‘repentance’.

In an unprecedented 100-page report, the Church confesses that ‘Christians have been guilty of promoting and fostering negative stereotypes of Jewish people that have contributed to grave suffering and injustice’, dating to when early Christians blamed Jews for the death of Jesus.

The report said that Christian teaching had provided a ‘fertile seedbed for murderous antisemitism’ over generations, explaining: ‘Within living memory, such ideas contributed to fostering the passive acquiescence if not positive support of many Christians in actions that led to the Holocaust.’

British schools are being offered a programme for morning assemblies that are entirely secular and free of religion for the first time.

All state schools in the UK are currently required to provide an act of daily worship of a ‘broadly Christian character’ under the 1944 Education Act. But Humanists UK, the campaign group for secularism and nonreligious belief, has drawn up an alternative model that takes God out of daily school assemblies, focusing instead on respect for the individual, the environment and justice for the developing world…

The programme, called Assemblies for All, will promote no particular religion or belief, making it suitable for all pupils regardless of their religious or non-religious background, the group claims.

The Times

The Guardian

More than a week of severe weather and flood warnings have led the lead bishop on the environment to ask: ‘Are we serious about the urgency of meeting the challenge of climate change?’

Bishop John Arnold of Salford has told The Tablet: ‘The recent extreme weather, with several accounts of a “month’s rainfall in a day” or a “week’s rain in an hour” in various parts of the country, is a stark reminder that climate change is not something which is just happening somewhere else.’ He warned that ‘we also face disruption of our seasons and its serious impact on agriculture, threats to our transportation systems and damage to housing’…

Particularly badly affected are Yorkshire and Derbyshire where hundreds of homes have been flooded…

Many churches assisted people affected by flooding.

Church Times

The Tablet

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

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Salvationist 30 November 2019

BISHOP LINKS EXTREME WEATHER TO CLIMATE CHANGE

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THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant

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CONTENTS

NOT DISAPPOINTED GENERAL Eva Burrows once told the story of a woman who got so caught up in the Christmas rush that she left it to the last minute to send Christmas cards to her friends. It was the final day for posting so she bought a pack of 20 identical cards, quickly signed them, addressed and stamped the envelopes, then popped them in the postbox.

The woman had been in such a hurry that she hadn’t read the greeting inside. So when she discovered one card left in the pack she thought she’d better see what it said.

The greeting was: ‘Here’s a little card to say, a special gift is on its way.’ Nineteen friends had their hopes raised and dashed that Christmas!

During Advent we think of the hope fulfilled by the coming of Jesus. On page 9 Lieutenant Nathan Loxley looks at the meaning of hope in the first of a series of reflections by different contributors. He focuses on the shepherds who received a message of hope from the angels, experienced its reality in Jesus and shared the message with others. He relates that to our own lives and encourages us to ‘share our hope with those around us’.

In Advent we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ and look ahead to his second advent, which will involve judgment. The four so-called ‘last things’ – death, judgment, Heaven and Hell – have been traditional themes for Advent meditation.

David Newstead considers these in his article on page 10. His particular focus is the concept of the ‘endless punishment of the wicked’, which appears in the Army’s 11th doctrine. He acknowledges this is a challenging idea but, after looking at the approaches of various writers, concludes that the outlook is more hopeful than he once thought.

In his Bible study on pages 14 and 15, Lieut-Colonel Ken Hawkins continues the theme by looking at God’s righteous judgment. ‘God does not jump to wrong conclusions,’ he says. ‘Instead, he is purposely, fairly and fully aware of your situation.’

Hope is not just about looking ahead to the life to come: it is an essential part of life here and now. It looks life’s problems squarely in the face and offers practical, hopefilled solutions to people’s problems.

The Red Box Project is an example of that. On pages 12 and 13 Hayley Still introduces Aimee Margott, who visited Kenya with young people from Hythe Corps and returned determined to do something about period poverty in the UK – a problem of which many people are unaware. As a result, she became involved in the Red Box Project, providing practical help to schoolgirls in her area.

Ahead of December’s general election political parties are campaigning to promote policies that they believe present a picture of hope for the country. Whether or not you agree with them, they sincerely believe they can improve the future. It is likely, however, that whoever forms the next government will disappoint people in some way. By contrast, those who follow Christ have a message of hope that will not disappoint. We have the joy of experiencing it and the responsibility of sharing it.

Quotes from the media

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News

4 to 8

Advent reflection Hope

9

by Lieutenant Nathan Loxley

Viewpoint Contemplating last things

10

by David Newstead

Thinkaloud What has God joined?

11

by John Coutts

Feature 12 and 13 Inspired to tackle period poverty

by Hayley Still

Bible study God’s righteous love

14 and 15

by Lieut-Colonel Ken Hawkins

Through the week with Salvationist 14 and 15

by Major Lynda Levis

Retired officers Christmas greetings

16 to 18

New commitments

19

Announcements

20

Adverts

21 to 23

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring Lee Highton-Nicholls

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

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NEWS

International leaders gather at multicultural congress NEW ZEALAND GENERAL Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle captured the hearts of delegates at the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territorial Congress in Wellington.

The world leaders, who had served in New Zealand as leaders of the Northern Division from 2007 to 2009, were welcomed back with a moving pōwhiri (traditional Māori welcome) on the first day of the congress.

An opportunity for the General and Commissioner Rosalie to speak with officers and leaders from across the territory followed.

In the evening hundreds of people gathered for a presentation of cultural songs, dance, spoken words and images by Salvationists from the island nations and New Zealand’s Māori ministry group.

The General spoke about the work of The Salvation Army worldwide, sharing both challenges and celebrations, after which he met with members of territorial boards and councils and the mayor

of Wellington, Justin Lester.

During Friday’s Mission Conference, Divisional Programme and Candidates Secretary Major Christina Tyson facilitated a question-and-answer time with the General, which covered a wide variety of topics.

More than 100 young people met with the General and Commissioner Rosalie and, along with leaders and divisional officers, were able to share their concerns, challenges and ‘wins’.

At the evening family celebration, Commissioner Rosalie joined Territorial Youth Secretary Captain Mat Badger and one of the young delegates, Ben Clark, on stage for a game with Wubble Bubble Balls, leading her team to victory!

Throughout the event the world leaders preached with passion and an expectation that God wants to move significantly within the territory.

The General shared his international Call to Mission on Saturday night and Sunday morning, and the mercy seat was lined many times over the weekend with people responding to the invitation to encounter God in a fresh way. – A. R. WALLSEND: Sunderland Millfield Band presented a Saturday evening of music to celebrate the 140th corps anniversary weekend. The programme spoke powerfully to everyone and provided a foundation for the Sunday meetings led by Major Fred Thompson, who was returning to his home corps. He shared some fond memories and focused the congregation’s thinking on the present and future in a helpful and challenging way. Major Fred is pictured with corps officer Major John Ager (left) and Doreen Ralph, No 1 on the roll. – J. A.

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Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill presents Songster Joan Woods (Sunderland Millfield) with a certificate marking her retirement after 70 years’ faithful service; also pictured is Songster Leader Andrew Mair

Longstanding soldier Caroline Tinsley presents a new flag to Buckingham’s young people; the YP register now holds more than 16 names

LEIGHTON BUZZARD: To mark the 133rd corps anniversary the songsters and band supported Derick Kane and the Bexleyheath Brass Sextet as they provided an excellent evening of varied music. The evening was compèred by Andrew Blyth. – J. Q.

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CIRENCESTER: The band provided music, and Songster Leader Helen Grace sounded the Last Post and Reveille, for three services on Remembrance Sunday, including war memorials in Barnsley and Ablington and a service at St Mary’s church in Bibury. – M. G. LEEDS CENTRAL: The band led the annual Remembrance Sunday parade in the city centre.

The corps later commemorated the occasion with a Songs of Praise of Remembrance, which featured the band and songsters and guest Mark Porter (Doncaster). The hall was decorated with a poppy display, arranged by John Horsley. – C. A.

Ipswich Citadel Band accompanies singing at the annual Remembrance Sunday parade in Christchurch Park

Celebrating remembrance

SHIREMOOR: The 2nd Shiremoor Salvation Army Rainbows, Brownies and Guides led a prayer time during worship on Remembrance Sunday before marching behind the band to the war memorial. Hundreds from the local community attended. – F. S.

SOUTHWICK THE community project held a community event with a military theme. This included an assault course, a static owl display and information stalls hosted by representatives from the armed forces and St John Ambulance.

The 29th Field Kitchen brought an information stall and displayed food rations alongside their mobile kitchen, which provided a vegetable broth for people to enjoy.

The day finished with the graduation ceremony of the

current Victory Programme candidates and a time of remembrance for armed forces past and

present, as well as the emergency services and other support services. – J. J.

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CONSETT: The band hosted a concert at the town theatre by Black Dyke Band to celebrate the 140th corps anniversary. Spiritual and secular pieces were presented, including big band and cinema classics.

Steven Ponsford’s ‘Consett One Forty’ was also commissioned especially for the occasion. Conductor Phil Goodwin brought the evening to a close with Peter Graham’s arrangement of ‘How Great Thou Art’.

Celebrations continued on Sunday when former corps officers Majors Hilary and Stephen Naylor (Hull Icehouse) led the meetings. The band played a prominent part, with inspiring music and testimony. – H. M.

CHESTER-LE-STREET: Memories were brought back as corps folk enjoyed a retro school dinner to support Phil Hendy and Janet Harrison’s Brave and Courageous Project, which will help to build and support a school for children in Kolkata, India. Everyone was challenged to consider those less fortunate than themselves as the band played ‘People Need The Lord’. A sum of £800 was raised. – G. C. Salvationist 30 November 2019

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NEWS

Officers and leaders to stay politically neutral THQ THE Salvation Army is reminding officers and senior employees to remain politically neutral, particularly during the current election period.

The Public Affairs and Social Policy Unit says: ‘Elections can be a sensitive time, even more so given today’s political climate.

Particular care is required during the election campaign regarding all social media posts.’

The unit stresses that The Salvation Army is a politically neutral organisation and that social media posts on official Salvation Army or individual accounts should not be party political. This is not only a legal requirement to comply with charity law, but has long been a moral one to ensure the Army speaks for everyone in the communities it serves and is not associated with a particular political party.

‘This is an unusual election in that it is taking place in the run-up to Christmas – a time when The Salvation Army has a higher public profile than at other times of the year,’ the unit says. – A. R. O Advice and support on complying with electoral law and impartiality during this time are available from the Public Affairs and Social Policy Unit by emailing public.affairs@salvationarmy. org.uk.

SEDGLEY: The hall was full for an event celebrating what God is doing in the community through the corps. Three years ago four people would attend meetings on Sundays, but the corps has transformed into a growing, vibrant group that is seeking new ways of reaching people with the gospel.

Retired Divisional Envoy David Harrison supported, along with Dudley Band and Willenhall Songsters. The band and songsters brought various pieces before joining the congregation for an afternoon tea. – L. H-N. 6

Songsters celebrate centenary SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill and Birmingham Citadel Songsters joined a

Leaders embark on island tour GUERNSEY CHIEF Secretary Colonel Lee Graves and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Debbie Graves visited Guernsey accompanied by divisional leaders Majors Gregory and Priya Morgan.

The tour included a visit to meet the bailiff of Guernsey, Sir Richard Collas, alongside corps officers Majors Claire and Jamie

Salvationist 30 November 2019

weekend of celebrations for the songsters’ centenary.

On Saturday evening the visiting songsters brought blessings galore, from the opening stanza of ‘Great Great God’ to the final song, ‘I Have Seen The Glory Of The Lord’. Variety was provided by a flute duet, xylophone solo and a timbrel item.

The Territorial Commander focused on Ephesians during the Sunday morning meeting, observing that ‘once you’ve received the Holy Spirit, you’ll never be the same again’. The songsters’ contributions included ‘Bow The Knee’ and ‘If...Then’.

Supported by the band and songsters, the final meeting was a source of encouragement.

Birmingham Citadel Songster Leader Lesley Nicholson interviewed two songsters: Kabi Ho from Macau and Davison Muropa from Zimbabwe. They spoke of the welcome they had received from Birmingham Citadel corps folk and of their desire to serve the Lord through song. In her message, Commissioner Gill reminded everyone that they are on a journey, and asked the congregation: ‘How is your walk with the Lord?’ – R. B.

Hill. Sir Richard explained the unique position of Guernsey as a Crown dependency outside the jurisdiction of the UK. The leaders were shown ancient charters and seals dating back to the 1300s and were given a tour of the Royal Court. They also visited the birthplace of Major Marie Ozanne OF, as well as the house where occupying forces imprisoned her during the Second World War. The visitors saw the work of the community centre and corps

first hand, meeting with centre staff, volunteers and corps folk.

Members of the corps also provided afternoon tea and entertainment.

Sunday morning included worship led by the newly formed worship group, inspiring testimonies and prayers, and contributions from the band and songsters.

Colonels Lee and Debbie addressed the congregation and each brought encouragement and challenge from the word of God. – J. H.

DISS: Kettering Citadel Band presented a wonderful evening of music to an audience of nearly 200, many of whom were new to the Army. The programme included solo items from Gary Rose (euphonium) and Nathan Hunt (horn). The event was held in memory of Chris Davies, Harold Rackham and Derrick Leeder, three bandsmen who were recently promoted to Glory. Major David Young paid tribute to them, and funds were jointly raised for the Army and for Nelson’s Journey, a children’s bereavement charity. – E. H. Bandmaster Iain Parkhouse, Mia Laird, Jaqueline Turner and Andrew Wileman

Capacity crowd enjoys homemade Prom CROYDON CITADEL

RUTHERGLEN: More than 100 people visited for the annual corps fun day. Activities included face-painting, a bouncy castle, games and a visit from the police and fire service. One of the highlights was seeing corps officer Major Catherine Wyles having her face painted. People who once were active in the corps also reconnected with the church family through the event. – D. M.

THE band brought a Last Night of the Proms-inspired festival to mark band weekend during the 150th corps anniversary year.

During the evening, compèred by Andrew Wileman (Winton), the band delighted a capacity audience with music from musicals. Later, a faithful version of the Last Night of the Proms was presented, with all the favourite tunes enjoyed.

Brit School student and corps member Mia Laird, and second-year music college student and youthful Croydon resident Jacqueline Turner brought vocal solos. Violinist Stephanie Kemna travelled from Germany to provide an upbeat version of a sea shanty. Corps officers Majors Lisa and Mike Lloyd-Jones gave a thoughtful prayer and comment.

Bandsman Kevin Coates organised the event and his son, Ben, enhanced the evening with audio-visual effects. – C. K.

CANTERBURY: The band held a concert along with musicians from Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School to celebrate 130 years of music ministry in the city. The band played pieces including ‘Soli Deo Gloria’ and ‘Fanfare And Triumph’. The chorus sang show tunes from The Phantom Of The Opera and Wicked and presented several solo items. A sum of £350 was raised for the lord mayor of Canterbury’s Christmas Gift Fund, which will be used for food parcels for local people. Former chairman Sheila Cragg accepted the funds and congratulated the band on their years of service in the community. – K. C.

SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING: Majors Mike and Sheila Smith led morning worship, focusing on anti-trafficking and modern slavery. All music sections contributed, and a member knelt at the mercy seat at the conclusion of the meeting. Comrades and friends from Southampton Shirley shared in a buffet before the two congregations united for an afternoon praise meeting.

Rhian Jones gave a testimony, Dan Redhead and Tony Unwin (both euphonium) played an arrangement of ‘Calon Lan’ and Commissioner Siegfried Clausen brought the message. – B. E.

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NEWS

Reimagined Strawberry Field opens LIVERPOOL INVITED guests, including John Lennon’s sister, Julia Baird, gathered for a service of dedication and thanksgiving to mark the official opening of Strawberry Field.

The centre, built in the grounds of the former Salvation Army children’s home, includes a café, shop, prayer space, visitor exhibition and landscaped gardens, and hosts the Steps to Work programme.

Enfield Band welcomes guests for pre-contest fest LONDON HOLY Trinity church, Sloane Square, provided excellent acoustics for Enfield Band’s annual pre-contest festival, which was held the day before the National Brass Band Championships final at the Royal Albert Hall.

A large crowd attended the concert, including corps family, former band members and many overseas visitors in London for the championships.

Guest conductor Bandmaster Andrew Blyth (Peterborough Citadel) compèred the evening, which commenced with Joel Collier’s ‘Thy Matchless King’ and Thomas Rive’s ‘I Know A Fount’.

‘Immeasurable’, an upbeat arrangement of the tune ‘Penlan’ – written by Andrew at the request of William Flinn OF – was presented, before guest Tom Nielsen (Croydon Citadel) 8

Salvationist 30 November 2019

Liverpool Walton Band, which played at garden parties in the grounds years before, provided pre-meeting music and accompanied the singing.

Strawberry Field Mission Director Major Kathy Versfeld welcomed everyone before Secretary for Mission Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe and designer of the visitor exhibition, Jerry Goldman, prayed. The people who had been involved at every stage of the project were acknowledged in words of thanks from Divisional Commander Major Roger Batt.

The Liverpool Signing Choir delighted the

congregation with a presentation of the Beatles hit ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’ before Jerry Goldman spoke about the connection between John Lennon and Strawberry Field, and how he had intertwined their stories with that of the wider Salvation Army in his design of the visitor exhibition.

Alan Triggs spoke about Steps to Work and introduced a number of participants who enthusiastically explained how the programme had helped them.

Strawberry Field includes a fresh expression of church, and the leader, Captain Louise Brown, gave insights into how it is developing.

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill based his message on Psalm 24 and, referring to the plaque that would later be unveiled bearing the words ‘Dedicated to the glory of God’, said: ‘We pray that dedicated lives and these dedicated buildings and grounds may result in many individuals flinging open the doors of their own lives to let the King of glory in.’

After the meeting the TC and Julia Baird cut the ribbon at the entrance to the visitor centre.

Songs were performed in the café area by soloist Gyaan Lyon and the Liverpool Signing Choir, and a number of guests took time to visit the prayer space and write their thoughts in a memory book.

Melanie Robinson, whose mother was a child at the home in the 1940s and is featured in the exhibition, said: ‘This place holds memories for so many people and is a place where many more memories will be made.’ – J. R.

played his first cornet solo, William Himes’s ‘Jubilance’. The band followed with Olaf Ritman’s arrangement of ‘Tu Es Petrus’.

The atmosphere changed as the band played Andrew’s arrangement of ‘Shine Down’, featuring some excellent glockenspiel playing. Tom’s second solo was ‘Glorious Ventures’ by Peter Graham, who was in the audience.

The first half of the programme ended with Robert Redhead’s ‘Quintessence’, a favourite of many.

Following the interval, the band brought Brian Bowen’s festival march ‘The Southern Cross’, which was conducted by Bandmaster Don Jenkins (Enfield). A meditative setting of the chorus ‘At Thy Feet I Bow Adoring’ featured a trombone solo by Deputy Bandmaster Andrew Justice (Enfield). The second half also featured Stephen Wood’s new piece ‘Thy Tend’rest Blessing’, Barrie Gott’s swing arrangement, ‘Shine’, Andrew’s ‘My Father’s World’ and Edward Gregson’s arrangement ‘Before The Cross’, which

featured Tom’s final solo of the night.

Corps officer Major Allison Gaudion spoke on Psalm 24 before the band played Peter Graham’s ‘To Boldly Go’. Following the benediction, the band concluded with their signature piece, ‘The Red Shield’. – M. G.

Bandmasters Andrew Blyth and Don Jenkins with soloist Tom Nielsen

AD ADVE DVE VENT R VENT EFLE EF EFLE LECT ECT CTIO CTIO ION ION ADVENT REFLECTION

Hope

Sharing messages of hope At the beginning of Advent Lieutenant Nathan Loxley reflects on hope

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T’S all about Jesus. Matthew 12:21 tells us: ‘His name will be the hope of all the world’ (New Living Translation).

We can look to the shepherds, in Luke 2:8–21, and see how their hope grew the closer they got to him. As their watch was disturbed by the appearance of ‘the glory of the Lord’ (v9), I wonder where their hope lay.

It was not the most everyday experience, but perhaps we can relate to it. Those on guard were caught completely off guard – the unexpected had happened and they were flooded with fear. Has that ever happened to you? You thought you were in control and life was going well, then, without a second’s notice, everything changed?

The shepherds were swiftly joined by an angel speaking peace and sharing the ultimate good news. The Greek word ággelos translates as ‘messenger’ – an apt description of this angel’s role.

I’ve never seen an angel, and I’m not sure I would find its presence the most soothing. However, I can testify to God sending me messengers on numerous occasions, often in the guise of obedient disciples. Only a few weeks ago, when I was feeling exhausted and confused about God’s apparent absence in a situation, my phone pinged. It was a message from a friend at the far end of the UK, who was completely unaware of

what was going on, saying that he felt nudged by God to get in touch and encourage me. The man is certainly not an angel, but his obedience to deliver a message brought hope right into the middle of my situation.

In Luke 2 there’s soon not just one angel, but an army of them. These weren’t lovely children with tinsel halos, or even a choir in full descant, but a display of might. The army appeared and spoke out their words of praise before returning to the heavenly realm. This wouldn’t be a strange concept for the early hearers of this news: the Hebrew title Yahweh Sabaoth, meaning ‘Lord of hosts’ or ‘Lord of armies’, is used more than 250 times in the Old Testament.

The concept is as true now as it was 2,000 years ago – Heaven’s army has not retired. There are, undoubtedly, things happening in the spiritual realm that we do not understand. But this serves as another great generator of hope: that, even when it seems as if my prayers are going unanswered, things are happening. They may not always be visible, but let’s not lose hope in prayer.

The atmosphere out in the fields must have been electric and, as the angels left, the shepherds looked at one another and said: ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem’ (v15). The sense of anticipation, excitement and adventure almost makes it feel like the start of a Tolkien story, as the shepherds hurry off like little hobbits, bravely joining in something far bigger than them. This growing sense of hope was infectious, and as they shared their story with others, all were amazed.

Perhaps when Christians pretend to be happy all the time they just get on people’s nerves, but there is something much more compelling about a Christian who actively carries hope, because it’s real. Hope holds together the reality of current pain and the promise of something better. Like the shepherds, we each have a story to share about why we have put our hope in God in the past, and why we continue to do so.

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God – the same behaviour as the heavenly host. As we stand up as an Army, let us see ourselves as lining up alongside warrior angels in the King’s service. Worship, in itself, is a weapon to be used in aligning our behaviour on Earth with that in Heaven, and worship instils hope. More often than not, hope is an active choice and worship reminds us of why we make that choice: because God is God. During Advent and Christmas, may we find time to draw near to Jesus, the source of our hope. As we encounter the living God let us listen to his messages: messages for our encouragement or for the building up of others. We stand in hope, knowing that ‘the battle is the Lord’s’ (1 Samuel 17:47), and that he is at work.

From this place of encounter, let us share our hope with those around us, and take it where it is needed most.

LIEUTENANT LOXLEY IS CORPS OFFICER, ST IVES Salvationist 30 November 2019

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VIEW POINT

Contemplating last things David Newstead considers a doctrine that can be troubling for some

TOM WRIGHT The former Bishop of Durham, in his book Surprised By Hope, challenges our thinking further by suggesting that we have a Platonised view of Christianity, with the belief that when we die we simply go to Heaven and leave this poor old world behind. What he argues is that God’s overall plan is not to snatch up a few people to some ethereal Heaven, but to redeem and restore his creation.

There will be a new Heaven and a new Earth over which Jesus will reign and in which we shall live as whole people in resurrected bodies.

LESLIE WEATHERHEAD In The Christian Agnostic Weatherhead argued that Christianity is a way of life, not a theological system with which one must be in intellectual agreement: ‘I feel that Christ would admit into discipleship anyone who sincerely desired to follow him, and allow that disciple to make his creed out of his experience.’

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F I had been asked what I thought Heaven was like as a child, I probably would have answered: ‘A beautiful place with sandy beaches and rock pools where the sun always shines.’ I wonder if this childish understanding still lies just below the surface of our adult thinking. It certainly comes to the fore in many funeral services. Tom Wright makes an interesting observation in his book For All The Saints?, where he challenges the use of hymns, prayers and sermons that implicitly seem to support doctrines that don’t hold up under the careful reading of Scripture.

As Salvationists our formal beliefs are set out in the Articles of Faith, but can there be a dichotomy for some between what they have been taught to believe and what they actually believe, particularly in relation to Heaven, judgment and resurrection?

One particular challenge is the doctrine of ‘endless punishment of the wicked’.

This concern is not new – it has been raised from the beginnings of the Christian Church. For instance, Origen Adamantius – one of the most influential figures in early Christian theology – caused quite a few ripples in the 3rd century by challenging some of the Church’s beliefs, including the concept of endless punishment for the wicked.

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Over the years many leading biblical scholars have presented their views, and I have turned to some of those who have challenged and influenced my thinking.

JOHN STOTT Anglican evangelical John Stott presented an alternative to the traditional view. He suggested that lost souls would, if they continued to reject God, in the end be annihilated: ‘I find the concept [of eternal conscious torment] intolerable and do not understand how people can live with it… The ultimate annihilation of the wicked should at least be accepted as a legitimate, biblically founded alternative to their eternal conscious torment’ (Evangelical Essentials: A Liberal-Evangelical Dialogue).

WILLIAM BARCLAY Scottish theologian William Barclay advocated very strongly that everyone would eventually be saved, and that God would restore his creation to perfect harmony. In A Spiritual Autobiography he wrote: ‘I am a convinced universalist. I believe that in the end all men will be gathered into the love of God… I believe that it is impossible to set limits to the grace of God.’ To the universalist, eternal punishment contradicts the fundamental belief in a loving God.

Most mainstream churches, including The Salvation Army, accept some central truths about last things.

First, we will all appear in the courtroom of God and will be found guilty, but some will be acquitted. Those who will be acquitted are those who have been forgiven because of their faith in Christ.

Second, we will all be held accountable and must accept responsibility for the way we have lived our lives.

Third, we can all trust in the mercy, grace and justice of God for those whose life experiences, creeds and spiritual opportunities are different from our own, because he is the loving Creator of all.

On my personal journey I have, to my surprise, found the doctrinal explanations to be more accommodating and less dogmatic than I had previously thought. I think this gives Salvationists more latitude for personal interpretation, provided they do not deliberately distort the truth just to fit their own ideas.

General John Larsson (Retired), in his book Doctrine Without Tears, wrote: ‘The 11 points of doctrine provide us with a guide, a rough framework of understanding, but truth is ultimately found in experience. This turns doctrine into adventure!’

DAVID IS A SOLDIER AT BIRMINGHAM CITADEL

Thinkalou d b y John Coutts

N

the original, and that Mark and Luke omit Testament heroes such as Abraham and the excepting clause because everyone David had been polygamous but, by the time of Jesus, monogamy had become the knew that adultery was grounds for divorce anyway. rule. A man could divorce his wife – but not the other way round – if he found ‘NOT I BUT THE LORD’ ‘something objectionable about her’ The first followers of Jesus soon found (Deuteronomy 24:1), as long as he gave themselves struggling to apply his her a certificate proving that she was no enigmatic teaching. Writing to his flock longer married.

At least one prophet had disapproved of at Corinth, Paul clearly claims the THE MAN CHRIST JESUS authority of Jesus – ‘Not I but the Lord’ this one-sided concession: ‘Do not let The Gospels never say that Jesus wasn’t (1 Corinthians 7:10) – when telling married anyone be faithless to the wife of his married, but we can confidently assume couples that they must stick together. But youth. For I hate divorce, says the Lord’ that he was a young, single man. His what of believers whose non-Christian (Malachi 2:15 and 16). forthright comment about looking lustfully partners have left them? Here Paul gives What exactly was ‘something at a woman (see Matthew 5:28) suggests his personal opinion: ‘I say – I and not the objectionable’? The Rabbinic school of that he was well aware of sexual desire, Lord… in such a case the brother or sister and the cryptic statement about some ‘who Shammai restricted the idea to sexual infidelity, but the purportedly liberal school is not bound’ (vv12–15). This seems to have made themselves eunuchs for the mean that they are free to remarry. of Hillel stretched it to include spoiling the sake of the Kingdom’ (Matthew 19:12) could perhaps be a wistful reference to his dinner. That’s the background to the AN IMPOSSIBLE IDEAL? Pharisees’ question: ‘Is it lawful for a man own calling to remain single.

And where are we now? In An to divorce his wife?’ (Mark 10:2).

Further romantic speculation about Interpretation Of Christian Ethics In reply, Jesus referred to the Creation Jesus’ private life is guesswork. Mary theologian Reinhold Niebuhr spoke of ‘the story and that ‘God made them male and Magdalene’s song, ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’, comes from the musical Jesus female’ (v6), and affirmed that Moses only relevance of an impossible ethical ideal’. allowed divorce ‘because of your hardness Is our Lord’s challenging teaching on Christ Superstar, not the Bible. Mary – marriage, like his call to love our enemies, of heart’ (v5). His conclusion – ‘What God ‘from whom seven demons had gone out’ such an ideal? A standard to which we has joined together, let no one separate’ (Luke 8:2) – has often been presented as (v9) – seems to have stunned his hearers. must aspire but might never fully attain? a penitent prostitute (pictured above), but How, then, do we apply it in our changing Later on, he told the disciples in private only because Christian imagination linked world of cohabitation, frequent divorce and that remarriage after divorce, for either her with the woman ‘who was a sinner’ same-sex relationships? That’s a question sex, is adultery.

(Luke 7:37). The idea that ‘sinner’ implies But Matthew’s parallel account adds the to talk about using those Let’s Talk ‘sexual sinner’ comes from the evangelist so-called excepting clause: a man may Luke, not from his Master. discussion papers, remembering, of never divorce his wife, ‘except for Whatever his personal feelings may course, that this article was written by me have been, our Lord’s love life extended to unchastity’ (Matthew 19:9), at which the – and not the Lord. bewildered disciples wonder if it would be all humanity. The healing of the woman ‘suffering from haemorrhages’ (Luke 8:43) better not to get married at all. ‘Not O Conversations using the Let’s Talk everyone can accept this teaching, but disarms any taboos surrounding discussion papers are being facilitated by only those to whom it is given’ (v11) is our menstruation, and his unforgettable each divisional headquarters treatment of the woman caught in adultery Lord’s enigmatic reply. *All biblical quotations are from the New Revised Some have suggested that Mark’s strict (see John 8:1-11) puts paid to sexual Standard Version, Anglicised version, supported by Luke 16:18, is the double standards. original, while Matthew’s account is an early attempt to dilute our Lord’s teaching AN EXCEPTING CLAUSE? and align it with the school of Shammai.

The revolutionary deeds of Jesus worked JOHN IS A SOLDIER Others maintain that Matthew’s version is AT STIRLING wonders, but what of his words? Old

OWADAYS Christian thinking about human sexuality is in a state of development, if not confusion and disagreement. That’s why The Salvation Army has issued Let’s Talk, a series of international discussion papers on the subject. Let’s make a start by looking at our Lord’s teaching on marriage and divorce*.

Salvationist 30 November 2019

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FEATURE Red Box Project

Inspired to tackle Hayley Still describes how the Army’s Wash project in Kenya motivated Aimee Margott to take action in the UK

T

HE Salvation Army’s Kenya East Territory works with partner organisations in a number of sectors, such as community development, emergency relief, sports and health. The Army has also worked alongside communities to strengthen the public education system by establishing and supporting almost 500 schools across eastern Kenya.

Ten years ago, the territory implemented its first Wash (water, sanitation and hygiene) project for schools in rural areas. Aimed at developing school facilities and promoting good hygiene and health practices, the project had huge success in improving the learning environment and outcomes for more than 13,000 children.

Building on that success, a second phase began in 2013 with a broader strategy that actively engaged schools and their surrounding communities.

Recognising the importance of a community-integrated approach to achieving long-term sustainability, the project incorporated Wash, community health, agriculture and nutrition, targeting 40 schools.

Children act as agents of change within their communities, which means school engagement, as well as the

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development of school facilities, is an important starting point for achieving far-reaching transformation. Community development was the cornerstone of this project, as it leads to a greater degree of community ownership and participation, and therefore sustainability. Alongside financial and technical support provided

by The Salvation Army, local field co-ordinators were assigned to defined geographical areas, where they were responsible for facilitating community mobilisation and providing ongoing coaching and support.

As a result of the project, there is improved access to safe water through the drilling of boreholes and provision of rainwater harvesting tanks to schools and community members. Alongside the construction of new toilets and handwashing facilities in schools, health clubs were established to improve hygiene practices among girls and boys and knowledge of menstrual hygiene.

This improved knowledge has spread beyond school boundaries into surrounding communities.

The patron of the health club at Musuani Primary School noted the value of the children’s involvement in the clubs, and their impact on helping to make the project a success: ‘One important thing that the children have

Emily Ghassempour and Aimee Margott

learnt through the health clubs is responsibility. They are the ones who take care of the equipment… and teach other children how to take care of themselves. This is important because they [also] practise these activities at home.’

This project has had an impact beyond the local community as well. In April 2018, as part of its Transformers course, members of Hythe Corps travelled to Kenya to witness The Salvation Army’s mission and community development work there.

Aimee Margott was one of the attendees. During the trip she was inspired to become practically engaged in social justice issues affecting her own community.

Aimee shares her experience: ‘This was the first time I had ever set foot in Africa and I was initially struck by how breathtakingly beautiful Kenya is.

period poverty

During the trip we visited a number of people and I was moved by their overwhelming kindness. They opened their homes to us, provided us with food and gave us gifts. Though, materially, they had very little, people lavished us with generosity and it was truly inspiring.

‘One experience which stood out for me was our visit to the Salvation Army school in Thokoa, which, as part of the Wash project, had newly installed toilet facilities and washrooms. The previous facilities were completely dilapidated.

This had meant that for up to one week – maybe even longer – every 28 days girls would miss out on their education as they stayed home from school because they were unable to manage their period during this time. With the new facilities, they can continue to attend school, manage their periods and keep themselves clean by using the washroom facilities.

‘It was quite an experience to be part of the ribbon cutting for the opening of a new toilet block, but it was clear to see how important these new, brightly coloured and clean toilets were to the school community, and the smiles on the children’s faces were contagious!

‘This trip was eye-opening for me.

Although I knew that poverty exists all over the world, it wasn’t something I had really thought about seriously until witnessing its effects in Kenya. Missing out on education because I couldn’t afford to manage my period is unimaginable for me. For the girls I met, it was their life. This was a huge shock, and something that I think about frequently.

‘When I returned home from Kenya, I did further research into “period poverty” because I knew I wanted to do something very hands-on to help. I was shocked by the statistics that I found online about period poverty in the UK – for example, one in ten girls have been unable to afford sanitary wear.

During my research I came across the Red Box Project and immediately emailed them, asking to get involved. I soon became the co-ordinator for my area in Folkestone.

‘The Red Box Project quietly ensures that no young person misses out on their education because of costs associated with their period. We place red boxes into schools filled with

donations of sanitary towels, tampons, hygiene wipes, underwear and tights.

These products are kindly donated by the community, who drop them off to our donation points.

‘Recently the government announced a scheme which will cover schools with free period products from January 2020.

This is incredibly exciting news and something that the Red Box Project has been fighting for.

‘Although the project might be winding down at the end of 2019, there are parts of the country in which period products are still needed until the government’s scheme begins. You can find your local Red Box Project at redboxproject.org and get in contact at redboxprojectuk@ gmail.com to see how you can donate or set up in an area that is not already covered.’

Aimee’s story is a reminder that we must not sit back when confronted with poverty and injustice. There is always something we can do to make a positive impact, whether locally or globally, large or small.

O This article first appeared in Develop magazine

HAYLEY IS UK ENGAGEMENT CO-ORDINATOR IN THE INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS OFFICE, THQ Salvationist 30 November 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

God’s righteous Lieut-Colonel Ken Hawkins weighs up the benevolent justice of God STUDY PASSAGE: ISAIAH 11:1–5

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N October, 24 newly commissioned lieutenants of the Messengers of Compassion Session were sent out from Lusaka to appointments across Zambia’s 400-plus centres. They were challenged to preach the love of Jesus to a needy world. This Advent season, the love of God is symbolised in both the coming of the Christ child and the cross of Christ. In our study passage, God’s love appears in a different way.

QUESTION O How can a God of love also be a terrifying, righteous judge?

Isaiah 11 forms part of the expectation of a rescuer of God’s people, arising out of the family of King David, whose father was Jesse. This descendent Messiah will rule with power and fair judgment. For

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

by Major Lynda Levis

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Christians, this prophecy is linked directly to the coming of Jesus, and with similar strong expectations.

The coming Messiah will be equipped with the Spirit of God, and with divine wisdom, strength and judgment. He will stand in strong contrast to secular rulers, who boasted of their own strength and wisdom (see Isaiah 10:12–14). Verse 2 also reminds us of the earlier prophecy from Isaiah 9:6 and 7: ‘And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.’

QUESTION O Read verses 3 to 5 and then recite the Army’s fifth doctrine (see SASB p426). What similarities do you find?

These verses point us to a way of understanding the character of God,

and his Righteous Judge, which must not be forgotten. The fifth doctrine of the Army also reminds us of the angry judgment of God. Our belief is in a fallen humanity, intentionally departed far from God, causing the stirring of his anger. All of us are aware of the daily consequences of the fifth doctrine, and of the capacity of fellow human beings to inflict the worst atrocities upon each other; crime documentaries minutely examining the causes of brutal killings provide popular television viewing.

Around the world, and especially in this part of Africa, access to justice, and righting wrongs, is a privilege of the wealthy few. I have regularly listened where people have lost their valuable property and possessions, by encroachment and land grabbing, with no opportunity for redress.

Isaiah is interesting because the wrath of God and the work of the

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

‘Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations… He will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on Earth.’

(Isaiah 42:1 and 4)

He came to give us life in all its fullness,/ He came to make the blind to see,/ He came to banish death and doubt and darkness,/ He came to set his people free./ He liberating love imparted,/ He taught men once again to smile;/ He came to bind the broken-hearted,/ And God and man to reconcile.

(SASB 139)

For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.

(Psalm 72:12–14)

Salvationist 30 November 2019

love coming Righteous Judge are focused on benefiting the poor – those who have no access to normal justice. Verse 3 tells us, in contrast to our frequent human tendency, that God does not jump to wrong conclusions based on quick personal observations. Instead, he is purposely, fairly and fully aware of your situation, your pain and your unresolved grievances.

QUESTION O Consider and discuss any intentional encounter between Jesus and an outcast in the New Testament. What was the outcome?

Verse 4 seeks to answer the unspoken question: why does evil seemingly flourish in our world? Isaiah clearly declares God’s opposition to wrongdoing. More importantly, Isaiah shows that God acts to oppose evil, to judge evil and to limit evil. This

important principle underlies the whole message of the Bible.

The coming Righteous Judge, Jesus, is the one who will embody opposition to evil; ‘righteousness will be his belt’ (v5), his central focus.

In the book of Revelation, especially, Jesus is the one who opposes evil, who judges evil, and who will secure the final victory over evil. With the prophecy of Isaiah in hand, Revelation encourages us to focus on the important victory that the coming Righteous Judge will secure for his followers.

QUESTION O Read Revelation 5 as an example of that assured final victory. How does it make you feel?

Our study passage emphasises that Christian leaders must be balanced in their teaching about the character of God. Biblical history witnesses a God

of love who consistently acts out of love for his faithful children. God’s righteous judgment, and sometimes his anger and wrath, are a consequence of that strong love.

Doctrines one to six clearly demonstrate the loving action of God on our behalf. The cross, endured by Jesus, the Righteous Judge, can be seen as the greatest demonstration of God’s love. Through Christ, God desires to overcome all that oppresses his children. He acts to oppose, judge and limit evil and wrongdoing.

Is there someone you know who needs to hear about God’s loving action on their behalf this Advent? How can you share this important truth with them?

LIEUT-COLONEL HAWKINS IS CHIEF SECRETARY, ZAMBIA

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

He comes, the broken heart to bind,/ The wounded soul to cure,/ And with the treasures of his grace/ To enrich the humble poor.

(SASB 107)

He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and for ever.

(Isaiah 9:7)

He rules the world with truth and grace,/ And makes the nations prove/ The glories of his righteousness/ And wonders of his love.

(SASB 113)

And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness… Only the redeemed will walk there, and those the Lord has rescued will return.

They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

(Isaiah 35:8–10)

Prayer Lord of justice and mercy, fill our hearts and minds with the Spirit of Jesus so that we may never simply accept things as they are, but, in his name, do whatever we can to achieve peace and justice in our communities and beyond.

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Retired officers

Christmas greetings MAJOR CHRISTINE MARRIOTT

prays God’s blessings for Christmas and the new year on everyone who reads this message. God bless you.

Warmest greetings to you all. May the peace and joy of knowing Immanuel – God with us – stay with you always.

MAJORS VI and ROB SMART

Sending good wishes and praying you will enjoy a lovely Christmas with joy, peace and happy memories.

MAJOR MAGGIE SINGLETON

Wishing you peace and happiness this Christmas and throughout the new year. God bless you all.

MAJOR BILLY RICHMOND

MAJOR DOREEN INGRAM and BRIGADIER MRS DOREEN YORK

send Christmas greetings to all our friends and colleagues.

Wishing my friends peace and joy and God’s presence this Christmas and in the year ahead.

MAJOR NESSIE THOMSON

Greetings. A King is born. Peace and joy this Christmas and in the new year.

MAJOR CYRIL CHADWICK

Richest blessings at Christmas to family and friends at home and overseas.

MAJOR GEORGINA ATKINSON

What a privilege to wish you all a very happy Christmas. Also God’s love surrounding you for the new year.

MAJOR BARBARA HANT

May the peace and joy of Jesus fill your hearts this Christmas.

MAJOR MRS PHYLLIS SPICER

MAJORS PAM and EDWIN BROWN

To all my friends: wishing you all a very happy Christmas as we celebrate his birth.

send greetings and best wishes for a happy Christmas and a Godblessed new year.

MAJOR JEAN MOORE

Sending prayerful good wishes for Christmas and the new year to friends and colleagues near and far.

COMMISSIONER LYDIE ORD

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To friends everywhere: may the joy and peace this season brings be with you now and during the coming year.

MAJOR RENE DAVEY

May the peace and happiness of Christmas remain with you throughout the coming year.

God bless.

MAJOR PAT CHARLESWORTH

Season’s greetings. May the Christ of Christmas fill you with love, joy and peace.

MAJOR ANN ANDREWS

wishes her many friends peace, joy and Christmas blessings, and a happy new year. God bless you.

May God bless you with his grace, peace and joy at Christmas and through the new year. In gratitude for former colleagues and dear friends.

MAJORS ALEX and MARGARET HYNDMAN

COLONEL INA MARVELL

MAJOR MARY HODGKINS wishes all friends a happy Christmas. May peace and joy bring you goodwill throughout the coming year.

Christmas greetings come with our love and best wishes for a very happy Christmas.

MAJORS JOHN and DIANE BOYD

May God fill your hearts with his peace, joy and abiding love this Christmas.

MAJOR BERYL MOREY

My prayer for all my comrades and friends is that you will experience gladness and peace during this blessed season.

MAJOR WILLIAM MYERS

MAJORS BETTY and ALAN BENNETT send warmest

greetings to all our dear friends at this Christmas season. Thanks be to God.

With warm Christmas greetings to friends in the United Kingdom and further afield at this special time of the year.

COMMISSIONER ROBIN FORSYTH Continued on page 18

Continued from page 17 MAJORS GERALD and MILDRED PEACOCK send greetings to

comrades and friends for a happy Christmas and blessed new year.

May peace, joy and happiness be yours this festive season and throughout the year!

MAJOR OLIVE STEVENS

A Christmas prayer for all my friends that God’s peace, joy and love will be theirs this Christmas.

MAJOR RUTH CURTIS

MAJOR JEAN McCROSSAN and MAJOR BRENDA JEFFERY send Christmas

greetings to all our friends. May you be blessed as you celebrate our Saviour’s birth.

Warm Christmas greetings to all my friends. May God’s love, joy and peace be yours now and in the year ahead.

MRS MAJOR ANNE IRELAND

May the joy, peace, love and wonder of the coming of Jesus be with you all, now and always.

LIEUT-COLONEL OLIVE DAWS

LIEUT-COLONELS RAY and JOAN KIRBY send

prayers for shalom – God’s peace – on their family and friends at Christmas and in 2020.

Christmas blessings to all officers and friends who served with MAJOR MARY HARTLEY, both near and far. Have a blessed Christmas season and a happy new year. With love and blessings.

COLONEL MARGARET WHITE

thanks you for service shared and continuing fellowship. May God bless, keep and be gracious to you.

Wishing you all a joyful and God-blessed Christmas and a new year filled with happiness and peace.

MAJORS KEITH and DOREEN SHARP

Joy to the world, our Saviour is with us. Warm and personal greetings to our many friends.

LIEUT-COLONELS JOHN and JEAN PEARCE-HAYDON

From retirement in West Sussex, MAJORS LIBBET and JORGEN BOOTH greet colleagues and

friends around the world, wishing them a most wonderful Christmas and a safe, enriching new year. And so, as Tiny Tim observed in A Christmas Carol, ‘God bless us, every one!’

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BANGOR: Annie Kinney-Bell, Olivia Hillier and Alesha Gilpin were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Scott Cunliffe. They were supported by family and friends. – S. C.

DRIFFIELD: Corps officer Major Lois Town welcomed Jenny Semmens, Yvonne Millps and Sandra and Stephen Stennett as adherent members. All four have been attending for some time and enjoy the friendship and fellowship. – A. D.

GAINSBOROUGH: During the 135th corps anniversary, Recruiting Sergeant Major Chris Standing welcomed Lynda Glover, Pearl Richardson and June Marshall as adherent members. Each one shared how grateful they were for their first invitation to ‘come and see’, and testified to the warm friendship and fellowship that they felt.

Pictured with them is corps officer Captain Wendy Brown. – P. H.

NELSON: Formerly a member of the Baptist Church, Alan Ashworth linked up with the corps family in recent years and made the decision to become a soldier. Major Carol Ainsworth enrolled him, and he gave his testimony in the words of his favourite song, ‘When I Survey The Wondrous Cross’. – M. D.

TAUNTON: Divisional leaders Majors Ian and Jean Harris enrolled sisters Ruby and Maisy Walsh as junior soldiers. Pictured with them is corps officer Lieutenant Theresa Torr. – T. T.

BRISTON: Andrea Burrows, supported by her husband, Kevin, was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Lieutenant Gemma Allen. Andrea, who has been attending Briston for a number of years, took this step to show her love for God and her commitment to the corps. – G. A. Salvationist 30 November 2019

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 1 February O Lieut-Colonel Mike Caffull, Secretary for Leader Development, IHQ O Major Judith Payne, Principal, William Booth College, with the rank of lieut-colonel DEDICATED TO GOD O Arianna Rose, daughter of Tafwah Zevulana, at Sale by Major Donald Montgomery RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Lieut-Colonel Audrey Neal (85 on 9 December) O Major John Pocock (90 on 10 December) O Major Percy Hatcher (85 on 11 December) O Major David Groves (80 on 12 December) BEREAVED O Captain Susan Stubbings, Kidsgrove, of her husband Captain Timothy Stubbings O Jim Covell, Guisborough, of his sister Olive Bean O Songster Dorothy Soal, Gillingham, of her husband Mervyn O SL Russell Allen, Upper Norwood, of his wife Pauline, Kurt Allen and

Nicola Hartley of their mother, Olive Jefferson, Romford, of her sister O CSM Frederic Wheeler, Warrington, of his father Major Leslie Wheeler O YP Treasurer Eileen Smith, Burtonon-Trent, of her husband Bandsman Robert Smith, Fiona Smith, Burton-onTrent, of her father O David Walsh, Southport, and Alex Walsh of their mother Margaret Walsh O Songster Sergeant Marilyn Hunt, Cambridge Citadel, of her father Jim Dearle O CSM Norman Hunt, Cambridge Citadel, and Janet Raven, Burnley, of their sister Christine Hunt PROMOTED TO GLORY O Major Leslie Wheeler from St Rocco’s Hospice, Warrington, on 13 November O Captain Timothy Stubbings from Royal Stoke University Hospital on 15 November

TRIBUTES MAY ARIS, LEIGHTON BUZZARD MAY attended Rutherglen in her early years. It was an important foundation for her life and where she established her faith – a faith that would be tested by the

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory (commissioning, retirement of Commissioners Andrew and Yvonne Westrupp), Wed 4 Dec – Mon 9 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O Kenya East Territory (commissioning), Th 5 Dec – Tu 10 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Territorial Appointments Conference, Sat 30 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec O Westminster (national church leaders’ breakfast), Th 5 O Carlisle, Sun 8 O Parliamentary carol service, Tu 10 O William Booth College (spiritual day with cadets), Wed 11 O Reading Central (Reading area retired officers fellowship), Th 12 O League of British Muslims UK (annual celebration), Th 12* O The Royal Courts of Justice (carol service), Wed 18 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES O Territorial Appointments Conference, Sat 30 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec O Parliamentary carol service, Tu 10 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS O Royal Albert Hall (Territorial Carol Concert), Wed 4 Dec *Territorial Commander only

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experiences that life dealt her.

May transferred to Leighton Buzzard and immediately immersed herself in corps activities. She married Ken in 1954, which was the first wedding conducted in the hall, and they had two daughters.

In 1972 the family relocated and transferred to Wellingborough, where they continued to serve. In 1975 they returned and were welcomed back to Leighton Buzzard, and once again took a very active part in corps life.

As well as being a songster, May was songster secretary for a number of years. At various times she also served as Sunbeams leader and cradle roll sergeant. She is remembered with love and affection by all. – J. Q. MAJOR OLIVE TWITCHEN OLIVE was born in 1936 in Wivenhoe and attended Brightlingsea Corps from an early age. After leaving school she worked as an office clerk, but by the age of 20 she decided to enter the International Training College and joined the Faithful Session.

Between 1958 and 1962 she was appointed to Laindon, Benfleet with Canvey, Woodford and Limehouse Corps. From 1962 she served at the training college for 23 years. During this time she inspired and helped many cadets, both practically and through her teaching. She was appointed to International Headquarters between 1985 and 1994, where she rose to the position of Assistant Chief Secretary to the Chief of the Staff.

In 1990 she married Major George Twitchen at Sunbury Court, and they worked together in public relations. On retirement they moved to Norwich and took an active role in the life of Norwich Mile Cross Corps.

Olive is missed by all her friends in Norwich, including Major Kath Grimshaw and her family, as well as her sister Jackie and her stepchildren Georgina, Pauline and Godfrey and their children.

Olive’s exceptional organisational skills and her love of a challenge enabled her to give so much to those around her.

The olive tree planted for her remains a symbol of her resilience, dignity and faithfulness. – G. C.

ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 30 November 2019

21-23

‘

Employees, friends, members, officers, volunteers – we have them all in The Salvation Army!

We’ve asked some of them to tell us about themselves. This week…

LEE HIGHTON-NICHOLLS Oldbury How did you first come into contact with the Army?

When I was ten years old I started attending the Salvation Army Boys Adventure Corps with a friend whose dad was the leader. He was a true Christian man and taught me so much.

I would love to see corps that are mainly full of older people accepting that God can still use them to do great things

’

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

I struggled to think of an answer, so I asked my seven-year-old son. He said: ‘Dad, you would make a good Mr McGregor in Peter Rabbit. He is grumpy too.’

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

Fred Astaire. He is considered to be one of the most influential dancers of all time.

I love dance, especially musical theatre, and I would chat to him about this.

What made you want to become a Salvationist?

As a child I quickly fell in love with all that the Army offered me. I decided to become a junior soldier at the age of 12, when I came to understand that I could have a personal relationship with Jesus.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would love to see corps that are mainly full of older people accepting that God can still use them to do great things.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘The Lord your God is among you, a warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will be quiet in his love. He will delight in you with singing’ (Zephaniah 3:17 Christian Standard Bible). It speaks of how compassionate God is to us.

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

Daniel. I would ask him how he was able to have such unwavering faith in God in every situation.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

An all-time classic that I never tire of singing has to be ‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’ (SASB 26).

What is your day job?

I work for the Army as an older people’s specialist in the Birmingham area.

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

The most interesting thing has to be journeying with corps and centres to discover how they can equip, engage and encourage more older people on their faith journeys. The most frustrating thing is that there are not enough afternoons in a week. It feels like most corps programmes for older people are between 1.30 pm and 3 pm Monday to Wednesday. I need more days!

Is there something you have never understood?

How people can hurt others intentionally.

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

Grasp every opportunity, give it your best shot and, if you don’t succeed, consider another route.

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

Hours in a day. I would love to be able to decide how long each day is.

What do you do in your spare time?

I enjoy playing the piano and listening to music. A lot of my time is spent making plans for the youth chorus and community choirs that I lead.

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

Major Ena Deakin. She is fun to be around. She captivates me with her stories of what God has done in her life through her ministry, but she also makes me laugh until I cry.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I can tap-dance a little (not pictured).

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

Before making a decision be sure to weigh up all the possible outcomes.

What do you consider to be the most valuable thing you possess?

Life, and a loving family and amazing friends to share it with.