Salvationist 6 June 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1759 Price 70p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 6 June 2020

The Army’s pandemic response Now in more than 100 countries

PLUS AN INSIDE JOB SEE PAGES 12 TO 14

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

NEW PRAYER GUIDE TO SUPPORT HEALTHCARE WORKERS DURING PANDEMIC A new prayer guide has been produced to help support healthcare workers as they tackle the coronavirus outbreak.

Developed by online prayer resource Pray As You Go, the Healing Hands guide aims to encourage and support doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals to pray as they face the daily challenges of working amid the current pandemic.

The guide consists of two sessions: one for preparation before a shift and another as a reflective prayer to look back over a day or shift...

Written by Christian doctor, Father Paul O’Reilly SJ, the resources combine his experiences of both medical life and his Catholic faith to produce a short burst of prayer and reflection for those working in the healthcare system...

‘I created these prayer guides simply based on the way I pray as I go to and from my work as a GP...

What I offer here is not any form of guidance, consensus statement, established protocol, expert advice or, least of all, an example of good practice.

‘It is simply how I pray as I go to and from the work I offer to the Lord.’

[Producer of Pray As You Go Emma Holland] told Premier: ‘Prayer can really transform your day... to know God’s presence with us and to focus on God’s activity in our day-to-day [lives].’

CORONAVIRUS BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE LAUNCHED St Paul’s Cathedral [has unveiled] a new online book of remembrance for those who have died from coronavirus.

Launched online... it has won the support of the Prince of Wales, who said it was a chance to mark ‘our loss and sorrow, but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives’.

The memorial book, called Remember Me, will be... open to people of all faiths or none, the cathedral said. However, those named in the memorial must be British or have been living in the UK. Those who want to use it will be able to submit the name and photograph of the deceased as well as a short message.

The Church of England Newspaper

YOUNG CATHOLICS LAUNCH WEBSITE TO HELP REOPEN CHURCHES A group of young Catholics has launched a volunteering website, with the intention of helping with the reopening of Catholic churches across England, Wales and Scotland.

The website, Open Church Doors, allows lay Catholics to indicate their availability to help clean, maintain and manage their local parish for private prayer... Over 600 people have already signed up to help out.

According to one of the initiative’s organisers, the popularity of the site indicates an appetite to provide concrete assistance to bishops and priests working for the reopening of parishes, especially amongst younger, web-literate Catholics...

The Tablet

UK WOMEN BEAR EMOTIONAL BRUNT OF COVID-19 TURMOIL Women in the UK are bearing the emotional brunt of the coronavirus pandemic, experiencing greater anxiety about its impact than men... research by Ipsos Mori and the Fawcett Society found.

Six out of ten women said they were finding it hard to stay positive day-today, compared with just under half of men. Half of women were very concerned about the risk the virus posed to the country, compared with a third of men.

Women were also more likely to have their employment impacted, with a third saying their workplaces had been closed, compared with a quarter of men...

Sam Smethers, Fawcett Society chief executive, said: ‘Women are bearing the brunt of the emotional and financial fallout. Government needs to take a gendered approach as we lift the lockdown and begin to turn our attention to how we emerge from this crisis. One thing is certain, an economy which leaves women and girls behind will fail to recover...’

Campaigners say women are more likely to be on the front line delivering essential services... and caring for children and older relatives...

The survey was conducted online among 18 to 75-year-olds between February and May and weighted to reflect the population profile.

Premier

The Guardian

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

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

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Salvationist 6 June 2020

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CONTENTS

FREE ON THE INSIDE ONE of the most rewarding aspects of being a Salvation Army officer, which can also be one of the most challenging, is the variety of ministry opportunities that come our way. For me, that has included two stints as a prison chaplain while being a corps officer.

The first of these opportunities came when I was stationed at Plumstead in south London. A men’s prison, HMP Belmarsh, opened on our patch and I was asked to join the chaplaincy team for half a day each week. I’d visited a couple of prisons before, but always with a group. Now I had my own set of keys and was free to wander where I wanted. As well as mingling with prisoners on the wings I was expected to do the ‘statutory duties’, which involved visiting those confined to specified parts of the prison. The most daunting of these was the category A block, which held highly dangerous prisoners: those convicted of terrorism, murder or armed robbery. It did wonders for my prayer life!

On one occasion I showed a group of cadets around the prison and ended the tour in the chapel. One of them said how surprised and encouraged he was to see a chapel right in the heart of the prison. Even in a modern establishment like Belmarsh, the value of the chapel and the ministry of its chaplains were recognised.

On pages 12 and 13 two Salvation Army prison chaplains, Sarah-Jane Gregory and Major Alex Cadogan, tell us about their ministry. It’s clear that their presence is appreciated, both by the prisoners and the staff, and that their ministry as Salvationists makes a unique and valuable contribution to the work of the chaplaincy teams in their prisons.

Territorial Prison Ministries Officer Major Paul Johnson follows this up on page 14 with a reflection on solitary confinement and the need for interconnectedness and transformation – and, in his Bible study on pages 18 and 19, Major Graham Mizon reminds us that real transformation happens when ‘we grow into new creations in Christ, which transforms our thinking, attitude and motives’.

Not every form of captivity is behind prison bars. In another of his ‘More rearmirror views’ articles on page 15, General John Larsson (Retired) tells how, at the beginning of the 20th century, the Army in Japan took bold steps to help free thousands of young women trapped in prostitution.

I don’t know how things are now, but in my time as a prison chaplain a prisoner could only have a radio in his cell as a reward for good behaviour. For many of them it was an important link to the world outside. The recently launched Fortress Radio is not quite the same, but it seems to be meeting the needs of many Salvationists – and former Salvationists – during these days of lockdown. On pages 16 and 17 Stuart Hall tells us how it all began and what kind of an impact this online station, broadcasting Army music and worship, is making.

Someone can be as free as a bird but still captive to their moods, habits and selfcentredness, while a jailbird may be confined within prison walls but still experience true freedom inside. Wherever we are, and whatever our circumstances, may we experience the inner freedom that comes from being in Christ.

Quotes from the media

2

News

4 to 7

Prayer pointers

7

News feature 8 and 9 Army extends coronavirus response From the archive 10 When you take a leap of faith and fail

by Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis

Diary of self-isolation Just keep swimming! Week 10

11

by Major Karen Sandford

Feature Insights from the inside

12 and 13

by Sarah-Jane Gregory and Major Alex Cadogan

Reflection On the inside: cell and soul

14

by Major Paul Johnson

More rear-mirror views A march like no other

15

by General John Larsson (Retired)

Interview 16 and 17 Broadcasting blessings every day Stuart Hall talks to Salvationist

Bible study Knowing Jesus more

18 and 19

by Major Graham Mizon

Through the week with Salvationist 18 and 19

by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley

Letters

20

Feature Getting active for the Army

21

by Angela Carlucci

Announcements

22 and 23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring James Fotheringham

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

Salvationist 6 June 2020

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NEWS

War Cry wanted as prison pandemic pastime UK THE War Cry has had an unexpected circulation boost as prisoners are requesting copies to help them cope with self-isolating during the pandemic.

More than 15,000 copies have been delivered to 31 jails in England and Wales, representing a 16.5 per cent increase.

One prisoner wrote in to say: ‘I wanted to let you know the positive impact you have on prisons in the UK. I have only recently returned to faith in the past three years and I feel a connection to God stronger than I ever have. This has been greatly helped by the War Cry.’ Prison Ministries Officer Major Paul Johnson said: ‘Some of the most vulnerable and marginalised

people in our society are in prison. Mental health struggles, self-harm and addiction are all prevalent, so this time during social-distancing will be particularly difficult. Prison chaplains and other staff are dedicated and courageous in reaching out to support prisoners. Supplying the War Cry often helps start a relationship with a prisoner and we have seen salvation come into many people’s lives in prison.’

The Rev Jo Honour, managing lead chaplain at HMP Stafford, added: ‘The content connects with prisoners as it references current TV programmes and discusses the issues of the day, together with wordsearches, crosswords and sudoku.’

War Cry Editor Major Andrew Stone commented: ‘We value all our readers, but there is something special when we hear stories of how the magazine is helping people in prison who are trying to turn their lives around.’ – AR MALDON: The corps has worked with local partners to provide more than 450 food parcels for families in need since the start of the lockdown, as well as picking up and delivering prescriptions. Parcels distributed around VE Day included a poster, which recipients could display in their window to show support for those who gave so much during the Second World War. Corps officer Lieutenant Jon Doyle said: ‘The Salvation Army is always there for people in need and we take our inspiration from Jesus to include everyone in what we do and offer practical support.’ – AR

DORSET: Two bandsmen from Branksome Corps commemorated VE Day by sounding the Last Post and Reveille in their respective neighbourhoods. Just before 11 am Acting Bandmaster Colin Bright (pictured) sounded the last post outside his home in Swanage and, after the two-minute silence, sounded the Reveille. Several people came out of their houses and gave prolonged applause. Just before 3 pm he sounded the Last Post again and, together with retired Methodist minister Chris Moreton, played ‘We’ll Meet Again’. At 11 am and 3 pm Bandsman Denis Upshon also sounded the calls outside his home in Poole. – AR

Army provides VE Day cream teas for older people STREET SIX hundred older people received parcels including freshly made cream teas delivered to their doors for them to enjoy on VE Day as they continued to self-isolate.

Corps leader Territorial Envoy Louise Melia said: ‘We were starting to get concerned about the mental health of older people in our community during the lockdown.’

Corps folk baked 1,200 scones – two for each parcel. The parcels also included a Union Jack napkin, a tea bag and a postcard designed by the corps.

The recipients were encouraged to sit in their front gardens to enjoy their cream tea at 3.30 pm, and everyone else in the village was encouraged to have a cup of tea outside their homes at this time while maintaining social distancing. – AR GAINSBOROUGH: Members and friends of the corps were delighted to receive a decorated VE Day bag filled with macaroons, biscuits, chocolate, colouring sheets and a quiz. A few days later, Second World War veteran Don Andrews, a resident of Foxby Hill care home, celebrated his 100th 4

Salvationist 6 June 2020

birthday. A small group from the band played ‘Happy Birthday’ outside the home, and a few ladies from the corps made cakes for the residents and staff to enjoy. The event was also mentioned on BBC One’s Look North (East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire).

– PH

Territorial leaders host online Pentecost meeting UKI TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill invited viewers to celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit in a YouTube broadcast from the meeting room at THQ, with others participating from their homes across the territory.

Birmingham Citadel Band accompanied the opening song, ‘O God Of Burning, Cleansing Flame’, and other congregational songs during the hour-long broadcast were taken from previous live-streamed events.

Prayers were led by Chaplain to the Welsh Assembly Major David Emery and, from Bangladesh, by Captains Heidie and Richard Bradbury and their children, Luke and Neve.

Soloist Marjory Watson (Bellshill) sang ‘By My Spirit’ and the International Staff Band brought ‘Fruit Of The Spirit’.

Shadow puppetry was used to illustrate the Pentecost story from Acts 2. Later, members of Dublin City Corps, some of them wearing their health worker uniforms, read Galatians 5:13–23.

Using the example of blue medical gloves, which are only useful when worn, the Territorial Commander made the point that our work for God is only achieved when we are filled with the Holy Spirit.

Then we have ‘power to witness, power to preach, power to pray, power to serve in the name of Jesus’.

Viewers were invited to email saprayernetwork@salvationarmy.org. uk if they wanted someone to pray with them, before the meeting closed with the congregational song ‘I Dare To Be Different’. – JR O The meeting is available to watch at youtube.com/user/ salvationarmyvideo

First divisional food hub delivery arrives CHIPPENHAM SINCE the coronavirus outbreak and the necessary lockdown, Chippenham food bank has accelerated its work, providing more parcels in the first day than would normally be given in a month. While financial donations from the public, churches, supermarkets, charitable funds and community groups have helped maintain stock levels, delivery from the Severn and Somerset food hub was warmly welcomed, especially with the promise of more to come.

Many regular volunteers have been unable to help at the food bank because of shielding or selfisolation, but the corps has been blessed with volunteers from the Rotary Club, Chippenham Borough Lands Charity, other churches and many members of the public.

Hurdles with supplies initially meant volunteers needed to buy what supplies they could from supermarkets. After persuasive and persistent conversations, supermarkets and firms are now on board, making much-needed goods available.

The food bank’s remit is widening as it becomes a life-

SOUTH LONDON: The Woodgate family, who have served in the division for eight years, found different ways to thank the Army and support its divisional projects. Divisional Mission Enabler Major Susan Woodgate shaved her hair off and Divisional Officer for Leader Development Major Ian Woodgate climbed the stairs at home with 17-year-old Adam until they reached the equivalent height of Mount Everest. Hope, who is 13 years old, kept a 24-hour silence and 18-yearold Grace has been creating greeting cards, which can be ordered by emailing susan.woodgate@salvationarmy.org.uk. So far the family have raised more than £2,500. – AR

The Salvation Army, represented by FourHymn, joins 65 Christian churches, movements and worship leaders to sing a blessing to the UK, attracting more than three million views; search ‘UK Blessing’ on YouTube

saver to individuals and families.

Another charity in the area has been unable to hold its regular drop-in for people experiencing homelessness, so Miriam Dann, the community support worker at the corps, is giving 30 hot, healthy meals three

times a week to the residents of a supported housing unit and others who have been provided with accommodation by the police.

Amid all this, the food bank has been nominated to receive a civic community award. – JD Salvationist 6 June 2020

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NEWS

A royal helping hand CROYDON HER Royal Highness Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, helped pack emergency parcels at the Army’s regional food distribution hub based at Croydon Citadel – some of the 22,000 parcels being distributed across the country as part of the UK’s biggest emergency food response in more than 60 years.

The princess said: ‘In the past few years I have witnessed first hand [The Salvation Army’s] dedication and hard work, so when they invited Jack and me to their newly created hub to pack boxes, we jumped at the chance. As a group of volunteers we helped pack trolleys of food that are distributed to The Salvation Army’s hugely important and much-needed food banks that feed thousands across the UK.’ Divisional Commander Major Valerie Mylechreest said: ‘Her Royal Highness Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack, really became part of our team effort during their visit, joining volunteers in our socially distanced production lines to help get food to people who would otherwise go hungry.

‘It was a wonderful morale boost for all those at the hub who are working around the clock as more and more desperate people are reaching out to us. We are ready to help them thanks to the generous support of British businesses and members of the public.’ – AR

LEEDS CENTRAL: By the end of April the corps completed five busy weeks of food distribution thanks to donations from Morrisons, Tesco and Costco, financial support from the B&M store in Harehills – which donated £1,500 – and fundraising through JustGiving.

During the first week of lockdown helpers gave out around 920 hot takeaways and 960 food parcels. A further 123 food parcels and support for 50 families were given to the Stronger Families programme, a single dads group and a nearby Methodist church. Supplies of food and toiletries were also given to residents in high-rise apartment blocks, the Joanna Project and a takeaway Caribbean café. – MB

Steps to Work trainees take Steps from Home STRAWBERRY FIELD THE Strawberry Field Steps to Work programme has introduced Steps from Home sessions in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Steps to Work reaches out to young adults aged 18 to 25 with learning difficulties and other barriers to employment through a training hub in conjunction with work placements across Liverpool. During the lockdown, keeping trainees motivated and supported has been key for the Steps to Work team.

In the first couple of weeks of social distancing, a series of activities was planned, including virtual exercise, reflective quotes and sharing happy memories. The group proved popular and technology has allowed the informal ‘keeping in touch’ sessions to turn into Steps from Home.

Each day the trainees are invited to log on to Zoom and spend up to an hour interacting with each other and the Steps to Work team. Sessions are structured to include well-being activities, quizzes, ‘Strawberry Field’s got talent’ and messages of hope and reflection.

Steps from Home is providing trainees with an opportunity to socialise. They look forward to these sessions, which break up the day and offer encouragement and support. – LT

Meeting unique needs STOWMARKET IN partnership with Age UK, Mid Suffolk district council and Community Action Suffolk, the corps helped 23 families, 16 of which are receiving ongoing help.

An isolated older woman could not walk so volunteers changed her bed and bought food. She was also paired with a hospital chaplain, who is in self-isolation 6

Salvationist 6 June 2020

and calls her weekly. Others who have received food include a blind woman and a 93-year-old RAF veteran whose wife is living with dementia. The corps has also picked up prescriptions for a couple who require more than 21 medications.

One young mother with three children was given a fridgefreezer, and a young single father was given curtains for his threeyear-old’s bedroom window.

The corps is in regular contact

with a man with bipolar disorder, who could not attend his stepmother’s recent funeral.

A small package of food and toiletries was brought to a couple of men who were experiencing homelessness and had been housed in a hotel.

For a mother with a PEG-fed child (fed via a tube into the stomach), the corps supplied anti-bacterial wipes and laundry soap. For another, the corps has been making wellness calls, as

well as providing food and activity bags for her child.

Corps officer Major Bev Lloyd has so far made 107 contacts.

‘Each family is unique and is a privilege to serve,’ she said. ‘We recognise that we could just give them each a food box, but sometimes needs aren’t met with just some tinned food. Human contact, a weekly phone call and unique food items make isolating easier for the vulnerable and elderly.’ – AR

Prayer pointers Secretary for Spiritual Life Development LieutColonel Jayne Roberts introduces the final week in this series of daily prayer topics.

GATESHEAD: The corps has delivered ration bags to senior members containing essentials, treats, a card, VE Day newspapers and a gift. As some young people connected with the corps have not been in the country very long, the corps is providing additional ‘school’ work, as well as craft boxes, competitions, toys and games. A new social media group has allowed almost everyone to keep in touch, and those without internet access have an individual contact group for inspiration and encouragement. – AH

D

URING these weeks of lockdown we pause at noon each day to unite in prayer. This specific time may not be possible for everyone but whenever you take time to pray, the following subjects are offered, which particularly relate to concerns around the impact of the pandemic on daily life.

Monday Let us pray for local and national leaders who continue to instruct and advise us as we seek to move out of lockdown.

Tuesday

GLOUCESTER: Corps folk have found online Sunday morning gatherings beneficial. Before each worship meeting a group of members connect virtually to pray for the meeting and people affected by the coronavirus. After worship everyone enjoys a virtual coffee and a chat, finding out how they all are and sharing requests for prayer or support. – AB

We pray for all key workers today and thank God for the services they provide. May we continue to appreciate them and their work.

Wednesday These past weeks have brought us a new awareness of the wonder of God’s creation. We rejoice to see the spring flowers, clear blue skies, leafy green trees and hear the birdsong. May we continue to appreciate the beauty around us and care for our environment.

Thursday Every Thursday we have taken the opportunity to thank and celebrate NHS staff and all carers at 8 pm. Although this may have ended, let us continue to pray for everyone in our community working for people’s medical, practical and emotional well-being.

Friday

CIRENCESTER: When pupils at Chesterton Primary School reception class produced a video to thank key workers, Monty borrowed his father’s cap and tie and his mother’s epaulettes to represent the Army. Monty and his brother, Maxwell, also created pictures of rainbows and smiley faces to decorate the corps charity shop windows and attract attention to the information on display for those needing assistance. – MG

We ask God’s blessing today on our family members and the close friends we have been unable to visit for many weeks.

Lord, we thank you for the anticipation of being together and sharing in conversation face to face.

Saturday Lord, we are grateful for all that we have learnt during this unexpected time of living under various restrictions. Thank you for the peace and safety of our homes. Be near to those who have been bereaved during this time and those who have suffered illness and pain in isolation.

Sunday BELFAST TEMPLE: The corps has adapted its ministry through ‘worship at home’ sheets, delivered with the Army papers, a wave and sometimes other goodies.

This is especially valued by those without internet access. Corps Secretary Tom McAuley said: ‘Like so many self-isolating, my weekends are made more bearable by the efforts of kids like Connor, who faithfully delivers my copy of Salvationist every Friday.’ – KW

We thank you God for inspiring so many new expressions of Salvation Army worship, prayer and fellowship online and via printed matter. May we continue to learn from these days when thousands of people have connected.

O This

week’s link is to resources available from the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. They have published a book by Tom Wright, God And The Pandemic - A Christian Reflection On The Coronavirus And Its Aftermath. Profits will go towards supporting SPCK initiatives, including free daily bedtime story videos, with printable worksheets (spckpublishing.co.uk/ faith-at-home) and free ebooks from a selection of authors (spckpublishing.co.uk/free-ebooks) Salvationist 6 June 2020

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NEWS FEATURE

Army extends coronavirus response IHQ THE coronavirus pandemic remains a worldwide crisis, with the World Health Organisation reporting that more than 4.5 million cases of Covid-19 have been recorded globally*. While much of the world remains in some form of lockdown, there are signs of encouragement as some countries carefully start to ease restrictions where community transmission of the disease has been brought under control.

The Salvation Army now has coronavirus responses in more than 100 of the 131 countries in which it officially operates and continues to work to meet needs caused by or amplified by the pandemic. Food security remains a major priority for the Army’s International Emergency Services, as many vulnerable people are suffering with the breakdown of the subsistence approach.

FEEDING Angola The Army has identified 2,000 individuals – primarily women – in great need of food assistance. Because of necessary government restrictions on movement, access to reliable sources of food has become impossible. The Army is stepping up to provide emergency food parcels containing cereal, beans, oil, sugar and salt because these items have nutritional value.

Colombia and El Salvador Providing emergency groceries to people experiencing homelessness is central to a new initiative being introduced by the Army in Latin America. Project Officer Ricardo Gomez explains: ‘[They] don’t have access to food supplies. They have been fired, and there is no one on the streets so they cannot even beg. Common places to find shelter and bathroom [facilities] are closed.’

Salvation Army personnel are developing new ways of ensuring health and safety while also providing essential support.

Food is being portioned into disposable containers, in order to reduce the risk of virus transmission. Team members use alcohol hand gel before and after each delivery, maintaining a distance of two metres. Face masks and gloves are worn, and there is frequent disinfection of surfaces touched. The health authorities in both countries are regularly consulted.

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Salvationist 6 June 2020

India India Migrant workers in the transport industry have lost their jobs while on the move. Many lorry drivers, for example, have not been able to return to their homes, although some are endeavouring to rejoin their families by walking long distances. Food and clean drinking water are not routinely available on these journeys, because roadside facilities are closed. The Army is undertaking a major logistical exercise to provide around 20,000 migrants with simple snack boxes across ten divisions in the west of the country.

Philippines Salvation Army teams are helping to feed people who have been diagnosed with coronavirus and quarantined in sports stadiums and other official venues in Manila.

Bahrain A pre-paid grocery voucher scheme is offering relief to nearly 250 families and individuals.

Mexico In Xochimilco vouchers can be exchanged for a food box, in a scheme designed to feed a family of three for at least two weeks.

Meanwhile, prepared food will be handed out from the Army’s La Esperanza shelter to 125 people experiencing homelessness per day for 60 days.

Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua Food support for vulnerable families will be introduced following needs assessments.

Jamaica The Ministry of Local Government has asked the Army to help feed people who have lost their jobs in the capital, Kingston.

Around 100 families (300 individuals) will receive emergency food parcels, and approximately 200 people experiencing homelessness will be given daily cooked meals.

Belize The Army is continuing its feeding programme for people affected by the coronavirus pandemic, at least until the end of the month. More than 10,000 pantry packages have been distributed since the programme began in March.

HYGIENE Uruguay Teams of officers and volunteers have been distributing cleaning and hygiene kits to those who live in the neighbourhoods of La Humedad and El Cerro, near Salto. This is part of an ongoing commitment to support them and walk alongside the most susceptible communities during this health emergency.

Uruguay Kenya Health awareness programmes are taking place in numerous locations. Teams are disseminating information about coronavirus – and its control and prevention – to communities in Kakamega, Kolanya and Migori. House-to-house visits are taking place with the necessary precautions to ensure that everyone hears the important hygiene messages. Community training is also being carried out in strategic locations.

Indonesia The Army’s hospitals and clinics – many of which serve rural and vulnerable communities where there is little other healthcare provision – are on the front line.

Six hospitals in East Palu, North Sulawesi and Java are treating on average more than 6,400 patients per month. To ensure the safety of service users and staff, additional personal protective equipment is being secured. The Army is also providing doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers with vitamin supplements.

SPIRITUAL CARE Australia The Army held a National Day of Prayer as a precursor to a 21-day season of prayer, which began on Pentecost Sunday.

Territorial leaders Commissioners Robert and Janine Donaldson are keen to bathe the Army’s ongoing coronavirus response in

prayer, stating: ‘As we see restrictions being eased, the question we all have is: what will this look like as we move forward?’ To that end, members and people linked to the Army are being invited to assess and evaluate the way resources are being deployed. Participants are also encouraged to consider new ways of delivering services and encouraging people in their personal expressions of faith.

Finland Social media is being used by all corps to provide a means by which people can request and receive prayer, while copies of Sotahuuto (The War Cry) are being made available on request to social centre clients.

EASING RESTRICTIONS New Zealand The Army is resuming most of its pre-lockdown welfare services as the government’s restrictions are eased to Level 2.

‘We are hoping to get many of our community ministry centres and family stores up and running,’ says Assistant Territorial Secretary for Mission Captain Gerry Walker. ‘But this will be dependent on being able to ensure we can continue to meet the restrictions.

‘Many of our staff and volunteers, particularly in our family stores, are aged over 70, and we need to make sure we can operate at a safe staffing level while not putting people at risk.’

Director of Addictions, Supportive Accommodation and Reintegration Services Lieut-Colonel Lynette Hutson says that work in her area of responsibility has continued throughout the lockdown, albeit in a modified way. The distancing rules have brought some ‘interesting innovations’, which have worked particularly well for clients addicted to gambling. This is often a hidden affliction, and Lieut-Colonel Lynette says that some individuals have found a socially distanced approach to be a less intimidating way of getting help, although ‘there is a point where people want human contact’.

Denmark In Europe, Denmark is one of the countries leading the way towards a tentative, managed relaxation of restrictions. The economic factors of the ‘new normal’ remain uncertain, and the Army has been active in providing care packages for existing service users and individuals and families finding themselves in financial hardship.

As well as meeting essential needs, the Army has been including Lego sets with the family food parcels to bring a little enjoyment, thanks to generous donations from the Lego Group. Young people associated with the Army in Valby, Copenhagen, have helped to deliver the parcels, adhering to social distancing guidelines. The Army in Denmark has also been planning for a safe restoration of Sunday worship in light of the government’s intention to permit faith-related gatherings.

– AR O Get

regular updates on the Army’s Covid-19 response around the world by visiting sar.my/covid19

Denmark

* data correct as of 10 am 19 May 2020

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FROM THE

ARCHIVE

WHEN YOU TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH… AND FAIL

by Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis

H

ELEN Keller was the first deaf and blind person to earn a university degree. She overcame enormous obstacles and said: ‘Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved.’

No one in their right mind would actively seek out experiences of trials and sufferings, but often in life the only way forward is to confront such situations.

Moses is an example of what can happen when someone moves out of their comfort zone. Brought up as a prince, his life of privilege contrasted enormously with the conditions of the Hebrew people, who suffered under terrible bondage. He decided to help them, but it all went regrettably wrong.

Having saved a Hebrew slave from a beating by killing and then burying the slave driver, he felt confident the Hebrews would accept him as their leader and that he would secure their freedom. It was a shock, therefore, to be rejected by the very people he wanted to help. The next day, when he stepped in to calm down two Hebrew slaves who were fighting each other, they turned on him and one said: ‘Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian?’

(Exodus 2:14). There and then Moses decided it would be best to move on, like his patriarchal ancestor, Abraham, who also set out on a journey.

However, there were significant differences between his journey and Abraham’s. While neither knew at the outset where they were going, their motives were completely different.

Abraham moved out in hope. Moses was fleeing from his past. Abraham was motivated by divine discontent and he was looking forward with hope.

Moses was motivated by the lack of 10

Salvationist 6 June 2020

support from the Hebrew slaves.

Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote: ‘O, wad some Power the giftie gie us to see oursels as ithers see us!’ In this new situation Pharaoh would have seen Moses as a traitor; having grown up in the royal household, he had rejected all it stood for. The Hebrews would have seen him as a pompous upstart who thought he could just come along and take over their lives. His true family must have been disappointed with his behaviour, seeing it as a failure.

However, the gift Moses needed was not to see himself as others saw him, but rather to see himself as God saw him. From Moses’ point of view he was fleeing from disappointment and failure – a failed revolutionary, leaving behind his family, his friends and the people he wanted to help. From God’s viewpoint Moses was just moving from one classroom to another in the school of life.

Sometimes God can seem remote, and everything seems in a mess, when in fact, in the background, God is working out his plan for us. Moses had a lot to learn. In the same way we can set out to do the right thing, only to find that the very people we want to help reject us.

When life becomes intolerable despite

our best intentions, we need to remember that God has not deserted us. His viewpoint is very different from ours, and he can bring victory out of our apparent defeat.

The supreme example of this is to be found in Christ. The Prince of Peace came into this world to save us, and yet he was rejected. He came to his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet, on the cross, in the moment of his apparent defeat and failure, God was working to bring about an eternal victory for the whole world.

Eventually things worked out for Moses too, and he went on to become a spiritual giant and leader of God’s people. It is good to remember that when life becomes a mess, despite our best intentions, God is still there making all things work together for good. In his time, God will make things plain and turn our defeats into glorious victories.

LIEUT-COLONEL ELLIS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN NORWAY O This article was first published in the 12 March 2016 Salvationist

FEATURE I Self-isolation

JUST KEEP SWIMMING! DIARY OF SELF-ISOLATION WEEK 10 Major Karen Sandford (Harlow) continues her day-by-day account of life in lockdown DAY 64 Tuesday 19 May

DAY 67 Friday 22 May

There were some strange noises coming from the garden this afternoon. After a little confusion, I was pleased to discover it was Nathan – the garden is where he does his gym workouts.

I think it’s hard for teenagers in education at the moment – especially years 11 and 13.

They’ve spent most of their years focusing on exams, so there’s always been something to study and revise for, until now. Add to that the lack of socialising and sport, and the world as they know it is completely different.

I wonder if young people have been overlooked a bit – they’re so happy on their screens after all. (Note to self: get in touch with the ones from our corps.)

One of the important things I’ve learnt to do, in managing my mental health, is to take each day as it comes.

The past few days have been tough, and yesterday involved a bit of a meltdown, but it wasn’t the end of the world. It just meant I had to make adjustments, and go to bed with a clean slate.

Today, by complete contrast, I’ve been able to work effectively, spend time with people pastorally and even throw in a bit of admin for good measure. I don’t feel 100 per cent but it’s OK. It’s Ryan’s birthday and I’m looking forward to us all being together later when work is done. We’re adjusting to lockdown celebrations. Today we’re having a curry, and the marshmallows are ready for the firepit. Happy 26th birthday to my firstborn.

DAY 65 Wednesday 20 May Wednesdays are probably our most predictable day. We pick up food and take it to the hall for the food bank, and we deliver worship sheets and have pastoral conversations.

The day usually runs like a well-oiled machine. It feels good to have something familiar to ground us in the middle of the week.

DAY 66 Thursday 21 May I have ongoing health issues that flare up from time to time. This one has been a long time coming, but I have a strategy to deal with it. In my vulnerability I was reminded of these words by Scott Stabile. I offer them in the hope that they may help you too: ‘I see you. I see your strength and courage, your hesitations and fears. I see the way you love others, and your struggle to love yourself. I see how hard you work to grow, and your dedication to heal. I see your vulnerable humanity and your transcendent divinity. I see you, and I love what I see.’

DAY 68 Saturday 23 May I felt a little put-out this morning. The lake I swim in every Saturday has recently reopened. I swim there every Saturday all year round and two evenings a week during the swimming season. I’ve been swimming there for more than three years, so have viewed it as my swimming place.

Until now.

Today the car park was full to bursting.

Everywhere I looked there were people in wetsuits who don’t swim there usually.

Some of them have even turned their noses up at it in the past.

I know I don’t own it. I know they pay their money like I do. I’ll admit I’m prejudiced – sorry.

If I’d been six I’d have shouted, stamped and stormed off. As I’m a grown-up I only shouted and stamped inside, then drove off for a socially distanced swim in the River Beane with a couple of friends. It was heaven. The temperature was just

right, it was easy to get in and out, and if you swam in one direction for a minute or two it gently swooshed you back like a lazy-river ride. And it was free!

It’s easy to be judgmental at times – to feel a sense of entitlement and complain that things aren’t as they should be. I’ve felt like that a bit this week – but sometimes there is something better just around the corner.

‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him’ (1 Corinthians 2:9 New Living Translation).

DAY 69 Sunday 24 May We had a good Zoom meeting today, including a Scripture verse that hit me between the eyes. We are the body of Christ: ‘In fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be’ (1 Corinthians 12:18).

Every one of them. Just as he wanted them to be. Let’s take a moment to rejoice in who we are. Let’s rejoice in who God is – and who we are because of him.

DAY 70 Monday 25 May After Nathan’s special bank holiday breakfast, it was time for a swim, followed by a long walk with Daisy, before the day ended with the obligatory barbecue.

It’s hard to stay positive at the moment.

Today has been a lovely day but it just feels like Groundhog Day. After ten weeks in lockdown together, I guess that’s to be expected. We don’t get out much.

So, three things I’m grateful for are: the beautiful sky today; the feeling of being totally surrounded by nature, as if I were forest-bathing in the woods; and having sons who can cook.

O To

read Karen’s daily posts in full, go to karensandford.blogspot.com Salvationist 6 June 2020

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FEATURE Prison chaplaincy

Insights from the inside The Salvation Army has 26 chaplains visiting 32 prisons in England and Wales and four Cameo co-ordinators in three establishments.

Two of the chaplains tell us about their work.

SARAH-JANE GREGORY HMP North Sea Camp

Bringing the light of the gospel I AM part of the multi-faith chaplaincy team in this category D open prison on the outskirts of Boston, Lincolnshire.

I take an active part in all the generic statutory duties required, but there are times when the specifics of being a Salvation Army chaplain come into their own. One example is the wearing of uniform, the visibility of which leads to residents calling out to speak to me. In the years I have been a prison chaplain, Salvation Army uniform has never been mistaken for a prison officer’s uniform, although occasionally people think I am a healthcare worker, which gives me a golden opportunity to engage with someone who might not approach a chaplain otherwise.

A surprising number of residents use the Army’s Family Tracing Service, which gives a particular opportunity for engagement if time is taken to work through the form with them, rather than 12

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just send them away with it. The conversation that can be had in gathering the information required can be therapeutic for the enquirer. By staying alongside and supporting them with whatever the outcome might be, there is great scope for giving pastoral

support and building a relationship, which is more positive than the infrequent encounters many may have had with a chaplain while in custody.

It is sad to see fear in a face because the immediate assumption is that you are bearing bad news, rather than simply wanting to have a conversation and offer support. I find it remarkable that governors and managing chaplains often request a Salvation Army chaplain, even though the chaplaincy team is usually composed according to the religious demographic of the resident population. Our ‘sleeves rolled up’, practical approach of faith in action is recognised as a valued addition to the team.

In conversation with our number one governor, the observation was made that an increasing number of people are registered as having no religion and there is no specific chaplain for them.

The Army’s work in the wider community across the UK to many – which includes serving many more people than attend our Sunday meetings – was likened to

‘

I’ve been most moved when I see the prisoner also reach up his hand to the window in prayer

’

us being the church for the ‘no religion’ category.

I feel privileged to be engaged on the front line in the fight to change the pattern William Booth observed when he described people going to prison ‘in and out, in and out’, bringing the light of the gospel to what can be a very dark place.

MAJOR ALEX CADOGAN HMP Kirkham and HMP Lancaster Farms

It’s not just bad news AN irony within the prison estate is that the Christian chaplain, whose calling is to declare the good news of the gospel, is the person with the statutory duty of informing an inmate of bad news. In these days we’ve had more than our fair share of bad news to break. Not a day goes by, in either of my two prisons, when I do not have the task of informing someone of either a death or serious illness – and Covid-19 has made the situation so much worse.

Lockdown is a familiar situation, but in HMP Kirkham, a men’s category D open

prison, all visits have been cancelled and home leave (release on temporary licence) has been suspended. This has left more than 600 men locked up in billets (residential blocks) of about 20 men each, for roughly 23 hours a day.

Naturally they are scared, and living in close conditions the rumour mill works overtime.

Because of lockdown restrictions, we chaplains are not allowed into the billets to speak to the men unless it’s to deliver bad news. So I’ve had to get creative in order to provide bereavement support and pastoral care to my flock.

As my regular Sunday chapel service is suspended I produce a sheet with a Christian message and an act of worship that the men who regularly attend my service can read in their cells

on their own. I’ve been so blessed to be supported by prisoner volunteers who have ensured that fellow inmates get the service sheets.

I also go from billet to billet speaking with as many men as possible. I talk to them through their cell door window – a natural form of social distancing – and offer pastoral support and a War Cry, which they love! On many occasions I’ve reached up my hand to the window to bless them, and pray with and for them, and I’ve been most moved when I see the prisoner also reach up his hand to the window in prayer.

In HMP Lancaster Farms, a men’s category C closed prison, it has been rewarding to be able to spend more time with prisoners and staff. The regime has become simpler in many ways, with all movement off the wings strictly limited.

Many within the estate have serious mental health issues, and being locked up in their cells on their own for 23 hours a day, with no possibility of going off the wing for their usual work and activities, is contributing towards a rise in mental health problems.

I make a regular visit to as many of them as I can, especially those at risk of suicide or self-harm. I’m a nonestablishment face and I chat with them in a way that isn’t jail talk. It’s become a loving way of being with those who are imprisoned both physically and mentally.

The War Cry is having a remarkable effect among the prisoners. I was struck by a comment made to me by an inmate the other day. He said, ‘I look forward to seeing you guv, cos it’s not just bad news now!’

Life is tough in prison, but it reflects the outside in that things have just got tougher for everyone. However, amid the pain, fear and loneliness, the role of the prison chaplain is asserting itself once more: to be a bearer of good news.

O To find out about becoming involved in prison chaplaincy email Prison Ministries Officer Major Paul Johnson at paul.johnson@salvationarmy.org.uk Salvationist 6 June 2020

13

REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON ON REFLECTION

ON THE INSIDE: CELL AND SOUL Major Paul Johnson reflects on isolation, interconnectedness and the possibility of transformation

T

HE coronavirus has shaken the world and no element of society has been immune from its impact and intrusion. We have been forced to live in a new world with a new norm.

Social distancing is the least that we have been asked to practise in our behaviours, and for some that means solitary confinement. This has not been easy because we were created by God to be social beings.

It’s all there in Genesis. We were created to have an active daily relationship with God, to be in fellowship – God with us and we with him. God also knew we would need fellowship at our own level: ‘The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him”’ (Genesis 2:18).

Solitary confinement is used as a punishment in a prison setting – although it can be used for a prisoner’s personal safety. The film The Great Escape stars Steve McQueen as Captain Virgil Hilts, one of three Americans in a prisoner-of-war camp.

Because of his frequent escape attempts and irreverent attitude, Hilts

spends regular spells of isolation in the cooler – a solitary confinement cell – so is known as the ‘Cooler King’. His habit of bouncing a baseball against the cell wall keeps him entertained as he plans his next escape attempt. The film ends with an iconic scene where Hilts makes a break for it, leaping over barbed-wire fences on a motorbike, but is eventually captured. The final shot shows him being returned to the cooler and bouncing his baseball against the wall – to the irritation of the prison guards.

The pursuit of freedom and fellowship is an underlying desire of every man and woman, underpinning life itself. ‘No man is an island’ is a phrase from Meditation XVII by the priest and poet John Donne, written in 1624 when he was Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral. The prose passage, which was published in Devotions Upon Emergent Occasions, speaks of the essence of being human: ‘No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend’s or of thine own were: any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.’

John Donne lived in Tudor England at a time when church bells were rung to mark various events and were an important feature of daily life.

In this passage, the bell signifies a death, but the main point Donne makes is that

all of us are socially and spiritually interconnected. In other words, we exist in and for fellowship, not isolation.

This is how God has ordained it for us, and the need for it is reflected in the prison regime, where ‘association’ is the highlight of a prisoner’s day. It is the time they can meet, talk, watch TV together, play cards or have a game of pool. It’s important to the mental and spiritual health of those who reside in what is known as ‘the prison estate’.

The Penitentiary Act of 1779 proposed two state penitentiaries, one for men and one for women. It introduced solitary confinement to give a prisoner time to think, receive religious instruction and engage in a purposeful labour regime. The idea was to help those being entertained at His or Her Majesty’s pleasure time to reform their character from the inside, cell and soul, spiritually and morally. This remains at the heart of all prison reform today, and prison chaplains – including Salvation Army chaplains – have an integral and influential role in this mission.

A prison’s chaplaincy team is central to all its activities, and promotes the true meaning of fellowship: bringing men and women into a living relationship with the God who loves them in spite of their sin, faults and failings, and who can change them inside and out.

I believe in transformation, God can change the hearts of men, And refine the evil nature Till it glows with grace again.

Others may reject the weakling, I believe he can be strong, To the family of Jesus All God’s children may belong.

(SASB 34)

MAJOR JOHNSON IS PRISON MINISTRIES OFFICER, THQ 00 14

Salvationist 6Day June Month 2020 2019

MORE REAR-M MIR RRO OR

Gunpei Yamamuro

A MARCH LIKE NO OTHER General John Larsson (Retired) shares fascinating glimpses of the early Army

E

ARLY morning on 1 August 1900 in Tokyo, the most daring march ever undertaken by The Salvation Army set off. And no Army march has ever had greater consequences for good.

The Army had only been in Japan for five years, and numbered a scant 50 officers and a few hundred Salvationists.

The march that morning was headed by two Brits, Territorial Commander Colonel Henry Bullard and Chief Secretary Major Charles Duce, together with Japanese Captain Gunpei Yamamuro, editor of the Japanese War Cry. Under their leadership the 50 officers marched into the Yoshiwara, a one-mile-square walled city within Tokyo that was the stronghold of licensed prostitution in the capital and housed almost 5,000 girls.

These girls were virtually slaves of the brothel keepers, who insistently told them that there could be no escape. An imperial ordinance of 1872 had ordered that no prostitute could be held against her will, but it was written in hard-tounderstand classical Japanese and the brothel owners made sure it was not communicated to their girls.

The brilliant Gunpei Yamamuro, who as a 23-year-old Christian had become the first Japanese Salvationist and then the first Japanese officer, prepared a special rescue number of the War Cry. Printed on its front page in bold characters was the operative clause of the 1872 ordinance, rendered into colloquial Japanese by Yamamuro, which told the women that they could be free if they wished and that the Army was prepared to help them.

Armed with hundreds of copies of this

War Cry, and with banners flying, the officers marched into the Yoshiwara, proclaiming their good news from the street corners like town criers. But within minutes a taskforce of 300 thugs in the pay of the brothel keepers swung into attack. In the skirmish that followed, many officers, including Yamamuro, were wounded. The girls screamed and ran for cover. It was pandemonium.

Ranged against the diminutive ‘David’ of the Army was the mega-gigantic ‘Goliath’ of some of the most powerful vested interests of the land.

The day after the march, as the Army’s leaders had anticipated, the press arrived in force at the Army headquarters and, to a man, the editors joined the Army’s campaign and gave it front-page treatment. From then on it was not only Salvationists who were assailed in the streets, so were pressmen who were writing up the story. The editorial plants of two leading papers were so badly wrecked by gangs of thugs that the papers were forced out of business. But the papers that survived issued two or three editions daily so that readers could follow the evolving story. ‘March on, Salvation Army,’ applauded one paper, ‘and bring liberty to the captives.’

The events aroused such nationwide agitation that already by October an imperial ordinance decreed that any prostitute desiring her liberty could achieve it by stating her wish at the nearest police station.

The consequences of that march into the Yoshiwara were by any measure spectacular. In the space of one year,

12,000 prostitutes obtained their release, with many of them assisted in the process by the Army. By 1902, two years later, 14,000 prostitutes had renounced their way of life and the number of brothel clients, over a million in 1900, had dropped to less than half.

In 1920 a roll of honour was prepared by the government listing ‘the benefactors of Japan’. In the roll only five Europeans are numbered, but among them, to mark a nation’s gratitude, are Commissioner Henry Bullard and Lieut-Commissioner Charles Duce. And it all began with a march!

Young Gunpei Yamamuro went from achievement to achievement. The year before the march against prostitution he had used his communication skills to write a book entitled The Common People’s Gospel. This simple story of the life and teaching of Jesus was on its way to becoming a Japanese classic. The Yoshiwara events made the author even better known and increased its sales. To date, the book has sold more than 3 million copies in more than 500 editions. It has been sold in bookstores throughout Japan and, in a country where but 1 per cent of the population are Christian, the book has been a beacon of light that has guided many to Christ.

Gunpei Yamamuro was the first Japanese person to become territorial commander of his native country, be promoted to the rank of commissioner and be admitted to the Order of the Founder. It is little wonder that Japanese Salvationists of today revere his name.

Salvationist 6 June 2020

15

INTERVIEW

Broadcasting bles Stuart Hall, owner of Citadel Promotions, tells Salvationist about the recently HOW DID FORTRESS RADIO GET STARTED? In early 2019 I acquired the running and hosting of the Regal Zonophone website. For more than 20 years Ian Barton in Adelaide, Australia, had meticulously collated more than 1,200 albums, including 78rpm records, LPs and cassettes. A fresh look was given to the website, and albums outside the copyright remit agreed with SP&S were taken out.

After the launch of the new website I started receiving calls and messages from people around the UK asking if I would like to take their collections of recordings. There were too many requests for me to deal with on my own, so a friend of mine, Austin Burn, volunteered to help. Together we met a number of former Salvationists who were happy to talk to us about their experiences and how, in some small way, they ‘missed the Army’. Visiting older Salvationists, we came across the same message: ‘I cannot get to the Army as much as I used to. I do miss it.’

Over coffee one morning Austin and I shared our stories and wondered if we could provide a service to those who could not get to a Sunday meeting as well as reaching out to those who no longer attended a corps.

A week later I was in conversation with someone in the Music Editorial Unit at THQ and they mentioned how they loved listening to Regal

Zonophone but asked if the site could play tracks continuously rather than one track or album at a time.

Investigating this option, and keeping in mind how we could provide a ministry to the housebound Salvationists we had met, we hit on the idea of launching a radio station.

We had more than enough albums to get started and, since launching, we have received complimentary albums from corps who would like to hear their sections featured on the station.

DO YOU HAVE PREVIOUS RADIO EXPERIENCE? Frankly, no! However, I have appeared on radio shows, for example I was on Radio 4’s Midweek promoting the International Staff Band album Together. So, hours of research were undertaken as well as meetings with some current and retired BBC radio presenters, who helped immensely.

THE SUNDAY FORMAT IS DIFFERENT FROM THE REST OF THE WEEK. HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT? During my childhood, Sunday was a full day at the Army. As we lived some way from the hall it was normal to take a picnic with us and stay all day.

Thinking of those Salvationists that could no longer attend meetings, we wanted to provide a mixture of music throughout the day. The format of three meetings and three open-airs became the basis for the Sunday schedules.

WHO ELSE IS INVOLVED? Since starting live broadcasts we have built a small group of regular presenters. Most of the schedules are self-running, with suitable music selected from the database. However, on Sundays we currently have three meetings led by presenters. The news on the hour is centred around the news pages from that week’s Salvationist and are read by my wife, Lorraine. Major Keith White hosts Knee Drill (the prayer meeting) at 9.30 am before War Cry Editor Major Andrew Stone (THQ) and Captain Alison Stone (Regent Hall) present Holiness Hour at 11 am. Later, at 6 pm, Bandmaster Marc Harry (Lincoln) hosts the Salvation Meeting. Other people who have provided recorded messages or presented programmes include General Brian Peddle, Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne (William Booth College), Stephen Poxon and Major Malcolm Westwood.

HOW IS THE STATION FUNDED? The main cost for setting up the station was time that both Austin and I were happy to invest. The financial costs to get started were initially met by a major donor. When Fortress Radio went live, we had enough funds in the account to keep the station ‘on air’ for three months. We prayed that God would find a use for this service. We believe the Holy Spirit was working on this with us from the start. Revenues from advertising and donations via the website are keeping the station operating.

ARE THERE COPYRIGHT ISSUES? Before launching we took advice from a lawyer who specialises in music copyright and registered with PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited), which licenses radio stations and TV broadcasters.

16

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sings every day launched Fortress Radio HOW CAN PEOPLE ‘TUNE IN’?

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

WHY ISN’T FORTRESS ON NORMAL RADIO AIRWAVES? The simple answer is cost. To host a radio station on the FM channels would cost upwards of £15,000 a month, including licence costs. An internet station is significantly more cost effective.

WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN LIKE? Our initial plan was to run some test transmissions in the lead up to Easter, using Easter itself to launch the new station. However, circumstances changed in February and we went live.

We were not quite ready, and in the first couple of weeks we learnt some valuable lessons, fast. With a few weeks of broadcasting completed we booked a meeting with key personnel at THQ to see how we could work together.

Little could we have known when we arranged to visit THQ that the day of our meetings was the day after the prime minister implemented a lockdown. Suddenly, the number of people now in a position where they ‘couldn’t get to the Army’ was significantly higher.

In our first few weeks we were pleased to see the number of listeners rising into the hundreds. Then on the first Sunday of the lockdown 5,774

tuned in and from there the figures have been gradually rising.

We’ve received quite a number of messages from listeners. They can be read at fortressradio.online/ messages.

ARE THERE PLANS TO DEVELOP THE STATION FURTHER? We are conscious that after lockdown we will be living a ‘new normal’ and, while we don’t know what that will look like, we shall be continually reviewing the format and content to fit in with this new lifestyle. We are currently planning new programmes that will also be provided as podcasts.

Some of those programmes are focused on music sections – sections of yesterday as well as today – and others are interviews with a variety of Salvationists and friends who will share their stories.

WHAT IMPACT HAS RUNNING FORTRESS RADIO HAD ON YOU? I could not have guessed the significance of the timing of Fortress Radio. The coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on how we worship, and God is certainly using the station to bless and comfort many people. I feel like the little boy who turned up with a small basket of food, then this man Jesus has taken my basket, blessed it and is feeding the thousands who are listening. I feel humbled that he should take my small offering and use it to comfort his people.

O You

can listen to Fortress Radio on fortressradio.online, which also has instructions on how to listen via Amazon Alexa or download the smartphone app STUART IS A SOLDIER AT MAIDENHEAD AND MEMBER OF THE INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND Salvationist 6 June 2020

17

BIBLE STUDY

Knowing Jesus more Major Graham Mizon reminds us that faith needs to be worked out in everyday life 2 PETER 1:3–11

T

HERE is a modern parable about the owner of a manufacturing company whose main machine had broken down. An engineer was called out and, after a brief examination, took a hammer and hit the machine with one sure blow. The owner was delighted and relieved when it burst into life, but shocked when he later received a bill for £1,000. He asked for an itemised invoice, which duly arrived: £100 for the call-out to fix the machine, and £900 for knowing where to hit it.

A little knowledge is not always a bad thing, and in the second letter of Peter we read that knowing Jesus is a very good thing indeed. For starters, and before we get to more challenging parts of our Bible passage, consider this statement: ‘His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness’ (v3).

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

by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley

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Salvationist 6 June 2020

Or, to turn it around: through knowing Jesus, who called us, we can tap into his divine power, which will give us all we need to live a life that more resembles God than us.

QUESTIONS is your understanding of ‘knowing Jesus’?

O What is the difference between knowing him and knowing about him?

O What

Knowledge is associated with the mind, the place where we store information and gain understanding. In his recent book The Body: A Guide For Occupants, Bill Bryson claims that ‘you could travel through every inch of outer space and very possibly nowhere find anything as marvellous and complex and high-functioning as the three pounds of spongy mass between your ears’.

The wonder of our brain allows the Christian faith not only to be something that we feel and experience but also

something that we can think about, rationalise and make sense of. Coming into a transformative relationship with Jesus not only changes our hearts but also renews our minds (see Romans 12:2).

A Pharisee, who was an expert in the law, asked Jesus a question about the greatest commandment. Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind’ (Matthew 22:37).

The apostle Paul writes: ‘Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 2:5 New Revised Standard Version).

When we become believers, we grow into new creations in Christ, which transforms our thinking, attitude and motives (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).

QUESTIONS O Why is it so important that we are renewed in our minds?

O How can we ensure that we feed the mind with the things that are encouraged

by Paul (see Philippians 4:8)?

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

(2 Peter 1:3)

It is Jesus I need, it is Jesus indeed/ Who can make it all possible in me;/ Without Jesus I find I am so often blind/ To the truth he is wanting me to see./ O Jesus, Jesus,/ You are the one who can make my life complete./ O Jesus, my peace restore./ It’s Jesus I need, Jesus indeed,/ Jesus in me, more and more.

(SASB 499)

Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

(2 Peter 1:4)

Prayer Lord Jesus, we thank you for your teaching and example on how to bring glory to God, the Father. Thank you for sending us your Holy Spirit to guide, empower and enable us to grow more like you each day.

In 2 Peter 1:5–7, we are given a list of virtues: goodness, knowledge, selfcontrol, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection and love. We are told that knowledge of Christ is ineffective and unproductive unless it goes hand in hand with a life that demonstrates these qualities. This is not to say that works are a prerequisite for salvation, rather that faith needs to be worked out in everyday life.

I experienced this quite vividly, as a young adult, not long after becoming a Christian. I took the Salvation Army papers around the public houses, and one of the regulars I got to know was a man whom I always found at the bar.

Although his speech was slurred, he always quoted a Bible verse to me.

Then he would challenge me to quote a verse back. It became a weekly challenge, to the point where I would memorise a Bible verse before setting out on my round. I never got to know where his knowledge of the Bible came from, but it was certainly greater than

mine. And I struggled with why a man who was so well versed in Scripture would drink so much and present himself in such an unkempt way. His knowledge of the Bible did not translate into a transformed life.

QUESTION your spiritual journey. Can you identify areas of maturity and growth in terms of fruit and qualities that have come from knowing Jesus better?

worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God’ (Colossians 1:10).

As Paul prayed, let us pray that we will have a hunger to know Jesus better, and that this knowledge will lead to a life that is fruitful for the Kingdom of God.

O Consider

As our knowledge of Jesus grows, our relationship with him matures and our nature and actions become more like his. The consequence is that we leave more of the human, sinful nature behind as we ‘participate in the divine nature’ of Jesus (v4).

Paul warns the believers in Colossae about the knowledge and wisdom offered by false teachers there (see Colossians 2:4, 8 and 16–23). He also prays that they may be filled with God’s knowledge ‘so that you may live a life

Now my heart’s desire is to know you more, To be found in you and known as yours, To possess by faith what I could not earn, All-surpassing gift of righteousness.

(SASB 565)

MAJOR MIZON LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BIRMINGHAM

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Set forth within the sacred word/ The path of life is plainly shown;/ The ways of God its lines record,/ For every soul of man made known./ The truth, of all our hopes the ground,/ Is here within its pages found.

(SASB 810)

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.

(2 Peter 1:5–7)

But how shall we that truth declare,/ Thy grace, thy love, thy beauty show?/ Only as we thy nature wear/ Shall men that nature truly know;/ And as we walk with thee abroad/ They shall perceive the mind of God. (SASB 810)

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

(2 Peter 1:10 and 11)

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LETTERS

As the station is a private initiative we have asked Stuart Hall, controller of Fortress Radio, to comment:

AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY THE use of technology, in particular the internet, for Christian worship during the coronavirus lockdown has been an exceptional success. A report from the Office for National Statistics found that 52 per cent of people are using the internet to continue their usual activities, for example online worship.

Prior to the lockdown, church attendance in the UK was estimated to be circa 5 per cent of the population.

Fortress Radio has played a part in trying to help Salvationists compensate for the blessings and benefits of physically meeting within our individual fellowships. There are, however, aspects of the content in some of its programmes that raise cause for concern, particularly the referencing to historical Salvation Army terminology and use of certain songs that have little or no context in today’s setting and, more importantly, play little part in attracting potential new believers. I would say that I am a lifelong Salvationist who enjoys nothing better than our approach to worship, but I have concerns when we devote time to protecting old practices rather than considering new ones.

Fortress Radio uses an element of nostalgia to attract a listening audience, but in doing so restricts those who perhaps do not embrace the sentimental remembrance of previous times. Nostalgia can be healthy as long as its primary purpose is to remind how the past laid the foundation for the present and future. If, however, it results in a compulsion to return to the ‘good old days’, it can be damaging and lack spirituality.

Fortress Radio has an ideal opportunity to help direct our vision on where we are heading and not stay focused on what we have left behind.

The key to a growing church is to keep focused on where God is leading us and why.

Wayne Johnson Corps Sergeant-Major Hadleigh

FORTRESS Radio thanks Salvationist for the opportunity to highlight its mission and respond to the concerns of CSM Wayne Johnson. I am delighted with how the radio broadcasts have been received by many listeners. Fortress Radio’s original promise was to offer a platform to facilitate the sharing of music and reflections for those who were housebound or unable to attend regular corps meetings. Little did we realise how it would be used by the Holy Spirit to enable online worship while in lockdown.

Each week, a diverse range of valued and experienced presenters arrange and present their own spiritual reflections while selecting their choice of music from a vast range of genres to support their ministry; one such presenter was the Territorial Commander on Easter Sunday.

Fortress Radio makes no apology for using Salvation Army terminology and for providing a schedule that at times mirrors past activities. It is broadcasting Salvation Army music with Salvation Army presenters. By looking back to our vast heritage, which gives us our identity, we are able to look and move forward, secure in the knowledge that we have God’s guidance in a world that is uncertain and a little scary at present. Yes, there may be times when a song, an arrangement or a reflection may not appeal to all, but it is still worship. Fortress Radio can’t be all things to all people. I am delighted that it has a broad range of listeners – Salvationists, former Salvationists and Christians from other denominations – who appreciate our endeavours.

We have come a long way in less than three months. In May, we reached more than 46,000 listeners. Who knows what seeds are being sown?

LIVING MORE SIMPLY THE questions in my letter (Salvationist 15 February) were not ‘misdirected’, but were simply aired hoping to obtain answers. Sorry, Gordon, none were forthcoming in your reply (Salvationist 18 April).

I am pleased you have enjoyed being a vegan for 56 years as I have enjoyed being an omnivore for modestly longer, but neither philosophy is opposed to loving our neighbour as ourselves.

In Genesis 1:29 we read: ‘I have given you every herb…. and every tree’ (New King James Version). To claim this equates to veganism, and the exclusion of all animal products, is stretching it a bit, not least as in v28 it states 20

Salvationist 6 June 2020

that humans ‘have dominion over every living thing that moves’. I suspect every omnivore would accept ‘dominion’ includes eating animal products, and everyone knows the vision of Peter in Acts 10: ‘Rise… kill and eat’ (v13).

Yes, we live in an unbalanced world, and not all food production is as sustainable as it should be. The current crisis will and should involve much rethinking and reorientation.

Perhaps we should have half a Self-Denial week 52 weeks a year, and adopt the slogan ‘Live more simply so that others can simply live’.

Wesley Paxton Lockerbie

FEATURE I Fundraising

Getting active for the Army Community and Events Fundraising Manager Angela Carlucci (THQ) introduces three people who have taken on personal challenges to raise funds

Robin at the gym before lockdown JASON RODWELL 200 MILES ON A BIKE JASON is doing a 200-mile cycle ride from his home in Doncaster to Wolverhampton and back (a few days later), aiming to raise £400 for The Salvation Army in memory of his late girlfriend, Danielle Kenehan, who died in 2018. The first leg of the ride will be on 4 August, which would have been her 30th birthday.

‘The Salvation Army in Bradford did so much to support Danielle and me in our times of need,’ says Jason.

‘The centres on St Margaret’s Avenue [Bradford Holmewood Corps] and Leeds Road [The Orchard Lifehouse] provided food, advice, time and effort when it seemed like there was no one else.

‘I went through a period of homelessness, and got to know a few of the Army’s workers who walked the streets looking for people in need to try and better their situation. They didn’t judge, they didn’t force their religious values down my throat in exchange for help. Put simply, I wouldn’t be alive if The Salvation Army didn’t exist, and Danielle’s life would have been cut a lot shorter than it was.

‘Workers at the centre closest to where we lived became personally invested in our story. After she passed away, they worked with my family to make sure I didn’t go the same way. I had no income, so all the workers who knew her took me to her funeral and supported me throughout.

‘I can’t think of a more deserving charity to fundraise for or a better way to commemorate Danielle’s birthday.’

ROBIN LANCEFIELD ROWING THE LOIRE ROBIN began his challenge of rowing the equivalent length of the River Loire on a rowing machine at home on 17 April. He aims to finish on Bastille Day, 14 July.

This is the third rowing machine challenge Robin has undertaken for The Salvation Army. In 2015 he rowed 25 half marathons (a total of 328 miles) and in 2017 he rowed the equivalent distance of Land’s End to John o’ Groats (603 miles as the crow flies). Since 2015 he has raised more than £2,500 for the Army.

Robin says: ‘No holidays to France this year so why not go on a virtual holiday while raising money for The Salvation Army’s coronavirus fund? To motivate myself I decided to row from the source of the Loire to its mouth in Nantes. The Loire is 629 miles long and is France’s longest river. Along the way I shall post pictures and facts about where I end up each day.’

O Follow Robin’s progress at indoorrowingchallenges.blogspot.com JAN SHAW 10,000 STEPS A DAY JAN and Philip Shaw first came into contact with The Salvation Army when their daughter was born at the Mount Cross Maternity Home in Leeds.

Jan says: ‘The major attending to me was a very tough lady and the captain was a beautiful, gentle lady. It was a much-needed combination at the birth and I’ve had a soft spot for The Salvation Army ever since.’

Jan, who recently turned 79, started volunteering in the Army’s charity shop in Thirsk last year.

‘The charity shop workers are lovely people,’ she says.

‘I appreciate what they do and I believe they do a very important job in Thirsk. I also love being a part of my community. I get a lot of satisfaction from helping out.’

Unfortunately, the charity shops are closed during the coronavirus lockdown, so Jan – and her 13-year-old rescue dog, Willow – walked 10,000 steps a day during May to raise vital funds for the Army in Thirsk. She has raised more than £1,200 through Thirsk’s JustGiving page.

‘I’m the sort of person who needs a challenge,’ Jan says. ‘I need to have a purpose in life.’

O Is

there a challenge you would like to take on for The Salvation Army? Go to salvationarmy.org.uk/tell-us-about-your-event O Not sure how to fundraise virtually? Go to salvationarmy.org.uk/virtual-fundraising O For help with setting up a JustGiving page, email the Community and Events Fundraising team at challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 020 7367 4819 Salvationist 6 June 2020

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 4 June O Major David Chadwick, Assistant Retired Officers Secretary, THQ WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Emerald (55th) O Peter and Hilary Bebbington, Yeovil (26Â June) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Lieut-Colonel Geoff Blurton (80 on 17Â June) O Aux-Captain Laura Sharples (90 on 17Â June) O Lieut-Colonel Mrs Helen Boyden (95 on 18Â June) PROMOTED TO GLORY O David Ward, Sunderland Monkwearmouth O Junior Club Leader Olive Silcox, Plymouth Congress Hall O Elsie Campbell, Belfast Citadel O Alan Sibary, Brighouse O Brenda Sibary, Brighouse O Mabel McLoughlin, Prescot O Eric McIlwrath, Belfast Sydenham O Major Isaac Siundu, IHQ O Trudy Baxter, Bromley Temple O Hugh Boughton, Skegness O Aux-Captain Clara Wilson from University Hospital Wishaw on 23Â May O Major Kathleen Wilkinson from her home in Dudley on 24Â May BEREAVED O Barry and Sally Thorpe, Swindon Citadel, of their son Jonathan O Aileen Ward, Sunderland Monkwearmouth, of her husband David, Christopher Ward, Canterbury, Alex Ward, Sunderland Monkwearmouth, Lysa Ward and Mark Davidson of their father O Primary Sergeant Pamela Renouf, Plymouth Congress Hall, of her mother Junior Club Leader Olive Silcox O Gillian Greetham, Bedford Congress Hall, John Sibary and Paul Sibary of their father and mother Alan and Brenda Sibary O Bandsman Ian McIlwrath, Belfast Sydenham, of his father Eric O Major Anne Siundu, IHQ, of her husband Major Isaac Siundu, 22

Salvationist 6 June 2020

Blessing Siundu and William Siundu, both Bromley Temple, of their father O CS Margaret Boughton, Skegness, of her husband Hugh O Heather Brooke-Feather, Cradley Heath, and Howard Wilkinson, Birmingham Citadel, of their mother Major Kathleen Wilkinson

TRIBUTES CYRIL TURNER, BRIGHTON CONGRESS HALL CYRIL was adopted by a Salvationist couple at Uckfield Corps and learnt to play the trombone when he was 11 years old.

He grew to be a versatile musician and during the Second World War carried a miniature cornet with him, which he had to leave on the beach at Dunkirk. After the war he served as a bandsman, first at Uckfield and then at Brighton Congress Hall.

Cyril married Cath in 1948 and had two sons. He served as YP band leader and later as over-60 club secretary. His thought-provoking words during testimony time are greatly missed.

When his health deteriorated Cyril moved into a nearby care home. He insisted on taking his trombone, which he played from time to time, and when the corps band visited him he conducted them with great enthusiasm.

Just before his promotion to Glory Cyril celebrated his 100th birthday. – BW

MAJOR ANTHONY BUTTON TONY was born in Finchley, London, and worked in a bicycle repair shop before joining the Barnet Press, where he became assistant circulation manager.

In 1971 he and his wife, Jean, entered the International Training College out of New Barnet Corps as members of the Blood and Fire Session. They initially held appointments in the southwest of England, the Lake District and the home counties, before moving to the Goodwill Department to run centres in Dundee,

Nottingham and south London. When the Goodwill Department closed they returned to corps work.

Out of their 42 years of service, 22 were spent in their final appointment at East Ham, including a year of extended service after retirement.

Tony was dedicated to serving the people most in need and did not seek rewards or promotions, wanting only to do his best for the communities in which they served and advocating on behalf of people in his care whenever necessary. He loved Army brass band music, carolling every Christmas and attending band competitions.

Tony is survived by his wife, Major Jean, their sons Adrian, Carl and Lieutenant Christopher, nine grandchildren and one greatgrandchild. He loved spending time with people, especially his family, and was playful and funny with his children and grandchildren.

In a final note to his family, Tony wrote that he had lived doing what he loved. – CB

YVONNE WOOD, IPSWICH CITADEL THE youngest of 13 children, Yvonne was born in 1940. In 1962 she married Melvyn, and they were blessed with three children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Yvonne worshipped at Ipswich Citadel all her life. For many years she served as hall keeper, songster and youth club leader, roles in which she took great pride. She was a member of the home league and, after retirement, attended the Cameo club, introducing many to the corps family through her hospitality and friendliness.

Yvonne’s generosity of spirit, and her vivaciousness and ability to live life to the full, were evident to all. She was a good communicator and always spotted people who were in need of encouragement.

She lived life by loving God and others. Even in her final days, she held strongly to her faith, witnessing to those around her. A much-loved member of the corps, she is greatly missed by all. – DC

MICHAEL GREEN, DROITWICH SPA BORN in 1937 to Salvationist parents, Michael attended Droitwich Spa all his life. He played in the YP band from the age of seven, and was later commissioned as singing company leader and deputy songster leader. He was also a bandsman for 66 years, serving as deputy bandmaster and bandmaster.

During his national service Michael played with the Worcestershire Regiment. He played in the Salvation Army Divisional Fellowship Band, Worcester Concert Brass, Malvern Hills District Brass Band and West Mercia Police Band, which he conducted.

He was interested in sport, playing football in his younger years and bowls for Droitwich Spa in his later years.

Michael married Shirley in 1961 and they had four daughters, twelve grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Shirley dedicated many years to caring for Michael, especially in his final few years of illness. He is greatly missed by all his family and is remembered for his many talents, sense of humour and encouragement to all. – JC Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

Did you know Salvationist is now online?

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Salvationist 6 June 2020

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All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army.

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

‘

I was made to feel part of the corps family

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

Swimming. It was the one sport I enjoyed when growing up.

JAMES FOTHERINGHAM Falkirk How did you first come into contact with the Army?

A family member invited me to the men’s fellowship at the corps in 2005. I felt like I belonged, which led me to attend Sunday worship.

What made you want to become a soldier?

I was made to feel part of the corps family. I felt God wanted me to allow him to guide me as I explored my faith.

What is your role?

Before the lockdown I worked at New Future, the corps employability project, helping service users to understand basic computing. I also drove the minibus for the corps after-school project, collecting children from three primary schools each afternoon and transporting them to the hall.

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

It’s most satisfying when service vice users achieve the goals they have set for themselves, especially when n I have had the opportunity to assist them. m. Nothing frustrates me; when I encounter nter difficulties I just take them in my stride.

What is your favourite kind d of holiday?

One where I can relax and unwind. nwind. I also enjoy visiting places of historical rical interest and experiencing the local culture. ulture.

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

Always eager to help; no job is too much trouble.

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

Time, which would allow me to do more.

What do you do in your spare time?

In the winter I like nothing better than sitting down to watch a James Bond film – I enjoy a good thriller. In the summer I like spending time in the garden.

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

An assistant to 007 in one of the James Bond films. I could fetch and carry all the gadgets.

If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?

Platform shoes, which made me look taller.

Did you have a nickname growing up?

I was called Bugs Bunny at school because my two front teeth stuck out.

What is your favourite meal?

Haddock coated in breadcrumbs, and chips with salt and vinegar, washed down with a lovely cup of coffee.

’

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 1:6). When I made the decision to commit my life to God I was presented with a Bible and this verse was highlighted. I have turned to these words on many occasions and they have given me the guidance and strength to know that he is with me always.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

If I had to narrow it down it would be ‘Cornerstone’ by Hillsong. The lyrics inspire me, as they have meaning and can lift your mood if you are at a low point.

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

Preparation and planning prevent a poor performance, and if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I worked in an iron foundry in the early 1970s. I held the position of sand man, which involved ensuring the sand used in the moulding process was of the right consistency so that the mould was correctly formed.