IN this Self-Denial Appeal season, we are encouraged to think about what we can give. The focus of that giving is primarily financial in order that we might share what we have with others who have less. However, the focus of this week’s issue is the territorial value of respect.
Giving financially to others does, of course, demonstrate a level of respect and concern for their wellbeing, but are there other ways that we could give a little more respect to one another? Are there other ways to value our differences and embrace seeing things from a different perspective than our own? We are an increasingly diverse territory, and this reflects the wide range of cultures and groups that are being represented within the society of which we are a part.
In a world where some leaders would seem to be demonstrating a posture of self-preservation and greed, in what ways can we do more to be countercultural, reaching out to give more of ourselves to the stranger and to the people around us?
As we seek to discover what more we can give of ourselves may we continue to look to Jesus, who gave everything.
Visit salvationist.org.uk/ recommended-content
EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods
The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.
Happy together
‘IT’S time to play the music! It’s time to light the lights!’ If you’ve started to sing along already, then you, too, are probably a fan of the Muppets. The fuzzy ensemble of oddball puppets has returned to household screens this week, with an anniversary special on Disney+ to mark 70 years since Jim Henson created them. The one-off reunion promised, as the theme song declares, to be ‘the most sensational, inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational’ show – but however you describe it, there’s no denying there’s nothing else quite like it.
The Muppet Show special once again gathers the ragtag bunch to put on a musical variety performance with a celebrity guest – this time, Sabrina Carpenter. It’s a formula that has worked for the Muppets for decades: an unwavering blend of musical creativity, unflinching slapstick, self-aware jokes and sheer, unhinged chaos. The result is funny, anarchic and very, very silly.
Reflect and respond
Reflect on Psalm 16. How do you make time to experience the joy found in God’s presence?
Grab a copy of Kids Alive! or visit salvationist.org.uk/kidsalive and turn to Giggle in the Middle. Tell a joke to someone.
What song or hymn brings you joy? Share it with someone else this week.
As The Muppet Show returns to Disney+, Ivan Radford celebrates the joy we find in God and each other
Whether you’ve grown up with the Muppets or not, there’s a joy to be found in that silliness, because it gives us permission to be joyful too. To be playful. To have fun.
Galatians 5:22 and 23 remind us that the fruit of the Spirit includes joy, as well as ‘love … peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control’. It’s important to approach our discipleship with a serious commitment, but the outcome of that is a joy – deeprooted, sometimes quiet – that’s even better than an insecure bear with a hat and necktie sharing a terrible pun.
Sometimes, you need a blue, furry outsider with a peculiar fondness for chickens to remind you that God created us with the ability to laugh. Have you ever thought about that? Not the chickens, but the fact that you are made in God’s own image (see Genesis 1:27), with the in-built capability of laughter – something that releases anti-stress hormones in your brain and boosts your mood.
It’s surely no coincidence that laughter is also a social cue. Laughing can help us connect more closely with each other. In Genesis 21:6, Sarah becomes pregnant with Isaac and, as she realises God has fulfilled his promise to her, she testifies: ‘God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.’ Paul’s description of the body of Christ notes that we are called to share together in our highs as well as our lows: ‘If one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it’ (1 Corinthians 12:26).
Our joy comes from the Lord, but it’s
so often experienced and expressed through our interactions with each other – an encouraging word of assurance, humorous observation, surreal flight of imagination or shared recognition of a shortcoming. It’s perhaps fitting, then, that the Muppets are such a joyful bunch: they are a tightly knit, intergenerational team passionate about welcoming and supporting each other, whether they’re a self-centred pig or a redheaded lab assistant prone to accidentally setting his hair on fire.
The Muppets remind me that we are created to be in joyful relationship with one another as well as God, and that those relationships are richer, better and happier when we celebrate and value our unique differences and talents. As their song ‘We Got Us’ puts it, ‘Why sing a melody as a soliloquy/ When it’s more fun to be harmonising?’
We might not have a dancing prawn or banjo-playing frog among our number, but it’s only together as ‘fellow … members of his household’ (Ephesians 2:19) that we can begin to reflect the multifaceted beauty, and joy, of our Creator God. So whether you play the music, light the lights or beat the drums – DRUMS! – take a moment to treasure the shared joy you find in your church fellowship. There’s nothing else quite like it.
IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist
Picture:
Libby Wood Stockton Citadel
‘Those Good Old Dreams’ by the Carpenters
Whenever I listen to Karen Carpenter’s voice, I feel like she’s singing just to me. This song is really jolly.
‘Dreams’ by Jonas Brothers
It’s a cover and they did it in Belfast. It’s on the live album they did. It just sounds cool, and that’s literally the reason I chose the song.
‘You Know That We Love You!’ by the International Staff Songsters
To me it feels like a lullaby. When I put it on, it makes me feel really at peace. When the harmonies are all together but it’s really quiet, it sounds like one voice and makes me feel really calm.
‘My Love, My Life’ from Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again I like it because it’s about a special bond between a mother and a daughter. When I was watching the film, I was sat there with my mum, it was just really emotional. And I felt really fortunate to be sat there with my mum.
‘Jesus, What a Saviour’ by the Canadian Staff Songsters
It’s another simple message and, as soon as the piano introduces the song, you can let it wash over you. I like that, throughout the song, there’s always this thread that whatever is lacking in us, God will give it to us.
• Based on an episode of Salvationist Radio’s Me and My Playlist. The podcast features young people from across the territory as they share five tracks they love. Listen to more episodes at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
‘I finally found my belonging’
Cameron Rosser (Stowmarket) shares the impact of a warm welcome upon his faith journey
IGREW up in a non-Christian household in what was quite a little town in south Essex, but used to enjoy when the local parish church did their assembly at my secondary school. It was usually around Easter or Christmas, bringing both some comedy and meaningfulness to the Scripture they were getting across to a large group of 11 to 16-year-olds.
Fast forward to 2017, close to approaching my 21st birthday. I felt like I hadn’t achieved anything since college. I ended up leaving home and moving to Suffolk, in a way, to start anew. From the moment I got settled in, my mum had said I should find a church but, me being me, I brushed it aside.
I had thought this new life in the countryside was working... Until the Covid-19 pandemic hit and I was confined to my flat. It took a big toll on my mental health at the time, not being able to see my family or friends. It was something I had never experienced before. I was at what felt like a crisis point.
But then in 2021 someone said to me about church again, inviting me to a less formal evening service their church was hosting.
After having tried several churches in the town,
I felt like I didn’t fit in, especially as I already found it hard to make friends.
In 2023, I met Zoe, who introduced me to her church, Stowmarket Corps. From the moment I went to my first service, I was transfixed by how welcoming everyone was compared to my previous experience of other churches.
I finally found my belonging there and the past few years have been an absolute whirlwind, from joining the songsters and the band, becoming a soldier in 2024 and going on the Terrain programme. My most recent experience has been having the opportunity to be a volunteer at the 2025 European Youth Event in the Netherlands. It was at this event I heard God calling me, giving me instruction as to where to go next in my life.
Zoe and Cameron
Belfast Sydenham Belonging and love
Blending together
We’ve been the corps leaders here since July 2020. In 2025, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the corps in its present location. Although we’ve been more contemporary in our worship style, we combine the traditional and modern. Our band, songsters and worship group provide a great balance together. As a corps, we’re very outward looking, not only in mission but in our thinking and discerning and we’re blessed to have many children and young people.
Our young people’s activities take place from midday on Sundays across three age groups. We have about 10 teenagers, 7 older primary school age children and lots of little ones in the Primary. We’ve had about 10 babies born in the past few years!
Our youth group have a monthly fellowship, do social activities together and a weekly Bible class on Sundays, which they called ‘Basic’ - Becoming a Soldier in Christ. We have a young people’s band and singing company.
We changed our parent-and-toddler group name to The Ark, after the Covid-19 pandemic, to emphasise a
Fast facts
DIVISION Ireland
CORPS OFFICERS Majors Graham and Keira Wood
FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/belfastsydenham
safe and warm place for families. That’s been hugely successful and we’ve had local families connect into our corps and Sunday school from that.
We are very much a young family church and we’re also intergenerational. What’s lovely is how they all blend: there’s excellent connection between them. We have fellowship after our meeting and the older generation are genuinely interested in our children and our teenagers. Our youth love the support they get from the older generations. It’s a warm place to be; there’s a lot of love.
In 2025, our older youth spent a fortnight in the USA, mainly serving at Old Orchard Beach Corps in Maine. We offered to be available to them, to do whatever they needed and helped with their adult senior’s programme, their children’s programme and an annual community yard sale raising funds for overseas mission. They also supported the divisional music camp at Camp Sebago.
Flourishing in Christ
As a corps, we decided that, rather than having lots of different events, we would have a running theme for our 30th anniversary year in 2025. We chose Flourishing in Christ using Proverbs 11:28, which says ‘the righteous will thrive like a green leaf’. On Sundays we looked at various aspects of flourishing – for example on Bible Sunday we looked at flourishing in God’s word – challenging ourselves on how healthy we are in different areas. We encouraged people to set their devices for 11.28am every day – inspired by Proverbs 11:28 – to pray for our corps to flourish.
Connecting with the community
We’re part of Churches Together in the East Belfast group. We provide a lot
of practical assistance for families in the community and we are also a Restored Beacon church, providing a safe refuge for survivors of domestic abuse.
We seek to make a lot of connections through corps outreach, supporting care homes, a centre for adults with learning disabilities and a special needs school. Being available and having opportunities to invite people to our events is a privilege. We host a fortnightly online prayer gathering, which started during the Covid-19 pandemic. Some people join us from England. We run a variety of Bible studies, some online or in people’s homes to suit their needs. Our monthly ladies fellowship is going well and growing. On Wednesdays we’ve focused on meeting community needs, with a Connect community group and lunch club with an activity afterwards. This has been hugely successful in connecting people with each other and with God.
A place of welcome
Some of our congregation travel from out of the immediate area to come to the corps. We’ve also had new people join us from the community, which has been encouraging.
Nurturing disciples of Jesus and serving others without discrimination are key mission priorities for us. We’re working hard to be a place where everyone feels welcome and they belong, wherever they are from or whatever their background is. Our aim is simply that people come in, feel welcome and come to faith. It’s all about belonging and love.
• For more information about becoming a Restored Beacon church, visit salvationist.org.uk/domesticabuse-response
Love your neighbour
Captain Tony Kakande reflects on what matters most
MARK 12:28–34
WHEN Jesus is asked to name the greatest commandment, he does not offer something new or obscure. Instead, he draws from Israel’s deepest spiritual roots and brings them into sharp focus. Love for God and love for our neighbour are not optional extras of faith; they are the very centre of what it means to belong to God’s Kingdom. This passage comes at a tense moment in Mark’s Gospel. Jesus is already facing opposition from religious leaders and questions are often asked to trap or discredit him. Yet here, the question is genuine. A teacher of the Law wants to know what truly matters most. Jesus’ response cuts through complexity and reveals that authentic faith is measured not by religious performance but by a life shaped by love. In a world fractured by division, inequality and exclusion, Jesus’ words challenge us to examine how love is expressed –not only in personal relationships, but also in our communities, churches and social systems. To love our neighbour as ourselves is a radical call that requires empathy, justice, humility and action.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
When we think about loving our neighbour, who comes to mind and who is easily overlooked, avoided or forgotten?
Who benefits most from how things are currently organised and who may struggle to feel seen, heard or valued?
In response to the question posed by one of the teachers of the Law, Jesus begins by quoting the Shema: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.’ Love for God, Jesus says, involves the whole person – heart, soul, mind and
strength. This is not partial devotion or surface-level faith. It is a call to orient every part of life around God.
Love, here, is more than emotion. It includes loyalty, obedience, reflection and embodied action. Loving God with the mind means engaging critically and thoughtfully with faith, allowing beliefs to shape values and decisions. Loving God with our strength means faith is expressed through how we use our energy, resources and influence.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Which part of loving God do you find most natural? Right now, which part feels most challenging?
Where might your faith be compartmentalised not integrated?
Without hesitation, Jesus adds a second commandment: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ He does not present it as secondary or optional. Instead, he binds together love for God and love for neighbour so tightly that one cannot exist without the other. In the biblical world, ‘neighbour’ could mean fellow Israelites, but Jesus consistently expands this definition to include those considered foreigners and those on the margins of society. Love of neighbour, then, is not limited by comfort, similarity or convenience. Moreover, Jesus says we are to love others as ourselves. This assumes that our own needs, dignity and wellbeing matter – and so do the needs and dignity of others. The command challenges both selfishness and indifference. It asks us to imagine how our choices affect those around us, especially those with less power who are consequently overlooked, avoided or forgotten.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
In your social or church context, who is considered a ‘neighbour’?
Who might be treated as an outsider rather than a neighbour?
How might loving others as yourself reshape how you think about justice and fairness?
The teacher of the Law responds with insight and humility. He recognises that loving God and neighbour is ‘more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices’ (v33). There are echoes of the message spoken by Israel’s prophets, who repeatedly challenged worship that ignored injustice or compassion. Evidently, this encounter reveals that religious activity, however sincere, can never replace love expressed in relationships.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Where might religious habits distract from loving action?
How can worship shape us more deeply into people of compassion and justice?
What practices help connect faith with everyday life?
Worship, prayer and tradition are meant to form us into people who reflect God’s character in the world. When they become detached from love, they lose their purpose. For contemporary readers, this invites honest reflection about how faith is practised today. Church life can become busy, familiar and comfortable, yet still fail to address exclusion, inequality or suffering. Jesus affirms the teacher’s understanding, saying: ‘You are not far from the Kingdom
of God’ (v34). This is both encouraging and challenging. The teacher understands the heart of God’s Law, but understanding alone does not mean the Kingdom has fully taken root. The Kingdom of God is not simply an idea to grasp; it is a way of life to embody. To move from being ‘not far’ to fully participating requires courage, repentance and ongoing transformation. It involves aligning belief with action and allowing love to shape priorities, relationships and structures.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What might it look like to move from understanding to embodied practice?
Where do you sense a gap between what you know and how you live?
What step might God be inviting you to take?
Jesus’ teaching reminds us that love is not abstract or sentimental. To love our neighbour as ourselves means noticing those who are often ignored, listening to stories that challenge us, and being willing to change for the sake of others’ flourishing. It is a love that seeks dignity, equity and belonging for all. This commandment is not about moral perfection. Rather, it is about faithful direction – continually turning towards God and neighbour in faith and love.
• Listen to Captain Tony Kakande’s message on Salvationist Radio’s Sunday Worship. Visit salvationist.org.uk/ sunday-worship for more information.
CAPTAIN TONY KAKANDE Corps Leader Gateshead
To read the full, unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.
SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY – CARE FOR CREATION: SELF-DENIAL APPEAL
Father God, teach us to give generously, and show us ways we can put money aside so that we can partner in the work of caring for this world and supporting the work of The Salvation Army internationally. We give thanks for the Army’s work in Estonia, and pray for Lieutenant Renno Rannamäe and the other Salvation Army officers serving there. by Faye Lloyd-Jones (Resource Coordinator, Mission Resources)
SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY – SABBATH PRAYER: BREAKING HARD GROUND
Has the plough of God’s grace been opening up new places in you? Have you noticed a softening in you towards people or situations that you used to be resistant to? Is there new hunger in you for the things of God? Take time today to notice the things God has been doing.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
MONDAY 9 FEBRUARY – SHARING THE GOOD NEWS: YORKSHIRE AND HUMBER DIVISION
Yorkshire and Humber has cities with large student populations, and we’re seeking to develop a student ministry in Sheffield. Pray that, as we advertise the first post for a student worker, the right person will apply. As we undertake a listening and networking process in Leeds, pray that we discern whether God is leading us to pursue student ministry in that city.
by Major Caroline Heward (Assistant Divisional Commander)
TUESDAY 10 FEBRUARY – SERVING AND CARING: MISSION CONFERENCE
The theme Intero, meaning ‘between, among, within’, reminds us that faith flourishes in the shared life of the body of Christ. Pray for holy discernment for the conference leaders as they prepare. Pray for those who’ll be attending as leadership teams, that they will find a strengthening of their relationships and to the shared cause of mission and discipleship. by Major Kerry Coke (Assistant Secretary for Mission)
WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY – JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION: EQUALLY LOVED AND VALUED
One in three women will experience gender-based violence in her lifetime. Enable us to see each person through your eyes, that we may treat one another with love, dignity, equality and compassion. Bring violence against women and girls to an end, we pray.
by Hayley Still (UK Engagement Coordinator, International Projects Office)
THURSDAY 12 FEBRUARY – INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY: SOUTH AMERICA WEST TERRITORY
In Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador and Peru, The Salvation Army serves the people through homelessness services, health services, food aid and schools, as well as having almost 100 worshipping communities. Pray that many will come to know the love and goodness of God. Pray for the territorial leadership team, Colonels Alex and Luz Nesterenko and Lieut-Colonels Pedro and Raquel Sanchez.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 13 FEBRUARY – GROWING IN FAITH: MISSION CONFERENCE
Pray for all those attending the Mission Conference this weekend. Pray they will be drawn closer to Jesus; and pray we will each be inspired by the Holy Spirit to step boldly into whatever God is calling us to do where we are.
by Major Kerry Coke (Assistant Secretary
for Mission)
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.
Valuing one another
Major Lynne Shaw discovers how a new role has been enabled at
Wrexham Corps
WHEN we live out the value of respect, we welcome each person, seeing their dignity as someone created in God’s image, valuing their diversity, and seeking to serve each other’s flourishing. At Wrexham Corps, one way this has been modelled is through the Enabled group, which Cass Jones has led for about five years. Enabled exists to provide spiritual and social fellowship for people with a disability and their carers.
Corps leader Captain Claire Durrant shares that the ‘group are keen to learn, and Cass is great at adapting material to their needs’. She continues: ‘We are blessed to have an Enabled group and wanted them officially represented, as we would do for any other group; they are an important part of our corps family.’
After praying about it, Captain Claire and corps leader Captain Del Durrant shared their thoughts with the Enabled team and divisional leadership. There wasn’t an official role but, with encouragement from Divisional Leader Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts, Claire, Del and Cass put together a job description and proceeded as they would for any other local officer appointment, leading to Cass being commissioned as an Enabled facilitator.
Captain Claire says that the speed at which it all took place was ‘a real joy’. Formalising Cass’s role has opened up conversations about needs, how things that they have changed are working out, and what further change is needed.
Cass says: ‘Being made an Enabled
facilitator really hasn’t changed anything for me, but for the group it has. They have always been welcomed and a part of the corps, but their profile has increased. They take part regularly in meetings, from being the team taking up the collection to reading Scripture and praying.’
‘The group have a special bond and look out for each other, often texting to check up on each other or to request prayers,’ she explains. ‘They certainly teach me lessons in humility and grace, and I feel privileged to have the chance to work with and for them.’
Having someone recognised as an Enabled facilitator can encourage openness to inclusivity and being more mindful of everyone’s needs. What has been put in place at Wrexham is an inspiring invitation to consider how we meet everyone’s needs, how we value each other and the things we do in Jesus’ name, and how we include everyone.
Disability Engagement Adviser Jo-Anne Graham (THQ) says: ‘What’s happened at Wrexham is a beautiful example of grassroots discipleship and pastoral care, formalising the truth that everybody is made in the image of Christ and that this ministry matters.’
‘It’s important work,’ she adds, ‘because it breaks down barriers.’
The territory’s Enabled team has had an especially busy year, hosting monthly events across different corps. Jo-Anne explains: ‘We design a programme for the day with accessible activities and worship, drawing on and shaped around
the skill sets and passions of the people at that corps.’
Jo-Anne shares: ‘It’s about embodying life in all its fullness. Reaching out intentionally doesn’t always require big changes, often it begins with the smallest adjustments.’
Whether people have sensory or processing differences, mobility needs, or visual or hearing impairment, creating spaces and activities that are truly accessible reflects the Kingdom calling of honouring and welcoming one another.
‘Churches are incomplete if they do not include people in their community with additional needs and the ways they express worship,’ says Jo-Anne. ‘Belonging is shared ministry. Christ is accessible to us all. Christ meets us where we are.’
Being Christ to each person means considering the needs and experience of each person. Captain Claire encourages us: ‘If you have an Enabled group in your corps use them, listen to them, come alongside them – we’ve learnt far more from them than they’ve learnt from us. Give them a safe space where there’s no judgement, only acceptance and love, and show them how important they are.’
• For more about Enabled, visit salvationist.org.uk/enabled
MAJOR LYNNE SHAW Editorial Assistant Publishing Department
‘It is a welcoming place to be’
Zoe (Exmouth)
shares her first impressions of church with Lyn
Woods
EXMOUTH Salvation Army is a space I’m drawn to and makes me feel at home. It is a positive place of comfort, safety, peace and wellbeing. You can go in with a deep feeling of missing or yearning for something and come out with the missing jigsaw pieces, filled with things and feelings that you didn’t know you needed. The people who attend have a good attitude and give encouragement to lift you up, to make you feel happier, more hopeful and more confident.
Everyone gives a brilliant first impression. They listen to your opinions and give you good advice when it’s needed. They understand your viewpoint and don’t argue with you. They let you decide and explore your faith. They don’t judge: it doesn’t matter who you are, you’re accepted. They have lots of empathy applied to each individual circumstance and they show kindness and generosity. When you speak to them about personal stuff they don’t share it around.
They have lots of humour and laughter to cheer you up. They lift you up and make you smile. They help you believe in yourself. They know if you are trying to hide your feelings and problems and seek to help you through them. They don’t let you suffer alone. They are trustworthy and easy to speak to. They are never indifferent, unconcerned, insensitive, doubting. It is a place of belonging, where you can thrive and have lots of possibilities in life.
I went in quiet, shy and introverted and came out the opposite, not feeling at all out of place.
The atmosphere has a good ambience and aura. It has a lot of positive energy and Spirit. The church is a positive, welcoming, comforting place to be. It is a happy, relaxed, pleasant building to sit and chat to people. It’s safe, inspiring, warm and inviting, a disability-friendly place that accepts all types of people. There are smaller gatherings of people, which is perfect for me. They pray for you when you need it the most. Overall, it’s a brilliant place to go to.
Community Mission Manager Andrew Cutler says: ‘When life gets a bit too much, Zoe knows there are folk in the corps family she can call upon, who will help her through any difficulty. We say “everyone who comes through our door is family, they just don’t know it yet”. Zoe was one of those individuals, now she’s helping others experience that reality.
‘Zoe has undergone a miraculous transformation from a shy, introverted young woman to an engaging individual who is growing in confidence. Despite her dyslexia, Zoe has been challenging herself to read in public, and frequently reads Scripture in our worship meetings. At first, she had someone stand with her for support and was encouraged by our leaders to participate.
‘At our Blend coffee morning Zoe is now a fully integrated member who participates in conversation, the quiz and tabletop games. In recent weeks Zoe has engaged with new visitors and helped settle them in by introducing some of the games to them. On Monday evenings we run group chat for younger adults; we play games before eating a meal together and watch an episode of The Chosen, which depicts the life of Jesus and brings the gospel alive. Zoe loves that they tell familiar Bible stories in a way that introduces the disciples and other characters in a relatable way. After each episode we discuss the characters, the story and how it relates to us. Zoe also attends our monthly Saturday Loaf baking sessions and crafts club.
‘In recent months Zoe has started reading the Bible for herself. We are hopeful that our new Bible course will answer more of Zoe’s questions and deepen her knowledge and faith.’
LYN WOODS Editorial Assistant Salvationist
Love your neighbour
A collection of creative prayer resources for Racial Justice Sunday (8 February)
Jesus of Nazareth ‘NAZARETH! Can anything good come from there?’ Nathanael asked. ‘Come and see!’ was the reply.
The Holy Family as refugees
Rather than standing at a distance and assuming the story of that ‘other person’, why not dwell, abide with, take time to get to know or even just to listen?
Perhaps, in these simple acts of kindness, we’ll see the preciousness and belovedness of the one who, though different from us, is part of God’s work of art.
Jesus, forgive us when we write people off, when we stereotype and profile. Help us to see the humanity that you, Creator God, breathed within them. Help us to extend grace and welcome, compassion and caring, and to take time to appreciate your work of art.
Read the story from John 1:43–51 a few times, using the practice of Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading – an ancient practice of slow, contemplative reading and praying the Bible. Read the passage – notice what words or phrases you’re drawn to. Reread the part of the story you’re drawn to most. Read this part once more, asking what God might be saying. What is your prayer in this moment? What will you do now in response?
Take time to consider the people in your communities (local, work, school and so on) in the differences and diversity. How have you experienced this as both positive and negative? What might your prayer be in response to considering this?
WE hear the phrase, ‘The Holy Family were refugees,’ and we don’t know what to do with it. It’s a strong statement, yet it is there in the story. They flee; they are warned by angels to go and not look back.
How often God’s hand is in the rescuing of those dear ones, loved and cherished by the Almighty, who find themselves far from what they know and far from where they once called home.
God, may we see those guided into peace and safety as your children, loved and cherished, preserved and saved by you – and may we treat them that way, continuing your care for them by living up to our responsibility to love our neighbour and to welcome the stranger.
Read the story from Matthew 2:13–23 a few times, using the practice of Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading. As we spend time in the presence of God, reading through the text slowly, several times over, we are invited to listen deeply for the still, small voice of God.
What is your prayer in this moment? What will you do now in response?
Take time to consider who you know, or who you have perhaps seen in your area, that are the beloved children of God, displaced and seeking refuge. How might you pray for them, in word and in action?
Jesus, sitting at the well HE wasn’t the sort of person who should be there. Not from the right place – but then again, neither was she. A woman who had seen life. Who are we to judge? She recognised what it meant to worship in spirit and truth.
Holy Spirit, guide us to places of refreshing, to the presence of people we least expect but who turn out to be a blessing to us, and us to them. God, your fingerprints are all over us; they are all over those whom we meet, or walk past, or judge, or sometimes worse. Help us to recognise you, and to entertain angels with every opportunity we have. Teach us what it means to live in spirit and in truth.
Read the story from John 4:1–42 a few times, using the practice of Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading. As we spend time in the presence of God, reading through the text slowly, several times over, we are invited to listen deeply for the still, small voice of God.
Consider a time when you felt like you belonged or were made welcome. Now consider a time when you were not welcomed. In light of recalling or sharing stories of these times, consider people in your communities (local, work, school and so on). How might you pray in word and action with and for them?
• Taken from the Churches Together in Britain and Ireland resources for Racial Justice Sunday available at ctbi.org.uk. This year’s theme is Love Your Neighbour.
‘This is the miracle I needed’
Ivan Butler shares how debt advice helped him transform his life and regain dignity
ACROSS the territory, The Salvation Army Debt Advice Service is providing free, confidential and non-judgemental support to help people regain control of their finances. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, the service’s trained advisers give practical guidance on managing debt, negotiating with creditors and accessing options like Debt Relief Orders – a solution to deal with personal debts you cannot pay – or Breathing Space schemes. The service also helps with budgeting, benefit checks and long-term financial planning, ensuring people can move toward stability with dignity. This holistic approach often connects clients with additional support, including mental health resources, emergency aid and employability support, addressing the root causes of financial hardship.
In Luton, the service also supports the wider mission of The Salvation Army and the corps in its passion to serve the community with respect.
‘Each client is welcomed in and is encouraged to come as they are and share their circumstances without shame or judgement,’ explains corps leader Captain Vikki Herbert. ‘Our debt advice team come alongside the client to build positive relationships over time.
Many people stay in touch afterwards, testifying to the difference that the service has made to their quality of life and wellbeing.
‘We’re blessed to see crossover between those who engage with our community activities and those who access debt support. And clients feel able to connect with the corps in other ways, too, whether through our community café, toddler group, baby bank or worship services.’
One such person who was helped by the corps is Ivan Butler.
Born and raised in Luton, Ivan’s journey from financial chaos to stability is a testament to resilience, discipline and the power of compassionate support. For years, he avoided opening letters, ignored phone calls and lived in fear of debt collectors knocking on his door. The debt advice team gave him the tools and support he needed to rebuild his life.
Ivan reflects: ‘Before, I felt worthless. Now, I’m providing for my kids, paying bills on time and even saving. It feels like I pressed the reset button.’
Before seeking help, Ivan’s life was dominated by drug and alcohol addiction and untreated mental health struggles. At one point, he lived in temporary hostels, relied on food
parcels and ignored mounting debts.
‘I wasn’t opening letters or paying bills. Everything went on addiction – my four children, rent, food, it all came last.’
After a psychotic breakdown in 2023, Ivan was hospitalised and subsequently referred to the team.
Tracey Janes and Stephen Yorke, who are debt advice service coordinators, helped him negotiate with creditors, set up direct debits, and prioritise essentials. Slowly, Ivan regained control. Two years after enrolling in the programme, Ivan has been declared debt-free, receiving a Debt Relief Order – a milestone he once thought impossible.
‘Supporting Ivan over the past few years has been incredibly rewarding – we’ve seen such a transformation in him,’ Tracey remembers. ‘When he first came to us, he felt ashamed and overwhelmed, even struggling to open his post, but he knew he had to take control of his situation.
‘Despite facing mental health challenges, Ivan was determined to provide for his family and return to work. With support from our team and partner agencies, he gradually learnt to budget and explore debt solutions.
‘As he grew stronger, he decided a fresh start was what he needed, leading him to apply for a Debt Relief Order. Delivering the news that his application was approved was a highlight for us –the relief in his voice was immediate, knowing the weight of his debts had finally lifted. These moments are why we do what we do: helping people like Ivan become debt-free and ready to embrace the future!’
‘I don’t have to hide anymore,’ Ivan celebrates. ‘I can buy my kids ice cream, pay my rent and finally feel like I’m worth something. I’m not just surviving – I’m living. This is the miracle I needed.’
• Find out more about how the Army helps people tackle debt by visiting salvationarmy.org.uk/budget-anddebt-advice
Hope House
The 2026 Self-Denial Appeal runs from 1 February to 1 March with a focus on the Army’s work in Estonia
‘BEFORE, I was in jail three times, nothing was helping me, but this house is helping,’ explains Viktor, a resident at Hope House. ‘I know what is my problem, drugs and alcohol. Everything is very interesting to me. I’m very happy.’
Viktor is one of the 15 men on a rehabilitation programme at The Salvation Army’s Hope House. The centre is in the city of Tallinn, Estonia’s capital. Each day begins with prayer, followed by breakfast and a group conversation.
Janar Viilver is the assistant manager here: ‘The work that The Salvation Army does here is very important. I have been here for two years. I have seen the number of people in need of help increasing over the past two years. It’s grown. More and more people come here.’
Janar knows first-hand what the men are going through. He had always been a heavy drinker and didn’t think it was a problem. Then something changed.
‘When I realised that I couldn’t control it anymore, that it was controlling me,’ Janar continues, ‘my only choice was to come here and get help and try to live differently, to go on with my life.’
The rehabilitation programme lasts for a full nine months. The men get counselling and support to help them on their journeys to recovery. But they’re also expected to do daily chores and physical work. They call it work therapy, and the idea is it helps to rebuild strength and stamina, and it also serves a practical purpose. The money from the sale of firewood goes towards supporting Hope House, and the prepared vegetables are used in a busy kitchen.
Hope House depends on some dedicated volunteers to keep it running. People like Vjacheslav Vakar (Slava).
‘I’m just a volunteer,’ Slava says. ‘I do what’s asked of me. I look after the guys, run some errands. I offer some lessons, maybe something else. Whatever they ask for!’
Some of the soup they make at the centre is taken to Kopli Corps, where Lieutenant Renno Rannamäe is an officer, in the centre of town. On the way, Slava makes a delivery to some of the elderly members of the community who find it hard to get out.
Slava has been through rehabilitation at Hope House too. After he finished the programme, he joined the team as a volunteer.
‘This is already my fourth year here,’ he adds. ‘I’d say my life has changed dramatically, like a full 360 degrees. Everything I had before and everything I have now are completely different.’
Your offering
Bring your sacrificial offering to your corps altar service on Sunday 1 March, or hand it in at your corps any time during or after the appeal. Why not ask your corps leader for a collection box and save up for your gift?
You can also give online using this QR code or by visiting salvationist.org.uk/selfdenial –and state your corps name when prompted.
The programme is very successful, but Janar knows there’s only so much The Salvation Army can do.
‘If a person is not ready to help themselves, no single method, no person, no specialist can help,’ he reflects. ‘The most important thing is that a person has to get there by themselves, and that they want it.’
As a way to give back to the community, the residents run a soup kitchen every weekday, serving local people who are struggling. And Marat, the cook, makes delicious soup.
‘So delicious, always, always,’ says one visitor. ‘Marat cooks so well. Even if you weren’t hungry, you’d come to eat the soup, and the porridge too! Wonderful, wonderful!’
At the end of the day, the men gather again for prayer. For Janar, it was his faith that kept him going.
‘Well, faith is very important,’ he affirms. ‘There was a time when I lost all kind of faith and hope. I thought that nothing would help me. But God does his work, and God brought me together with the right people who were able to help me find my faith. That is a very powerful thing.’
• Based on this week’s Self-Denial Appeal video, available to watch at salvationist.org.uk/selfdenial
A celebration of legacy and commitment
REGENT HALL
A CAPACITY crowd gathered for a concert celebrating Dr Stephen Cobb’s 50 years of service with the International Staff Band, writes Major Stephen Moir (Mitcham). As part of a weekend of worship and celebration, the varied programme captured the essence of the band’s ministry over those years and featured a number of commissioned compositions. Those in attendance were representative of all ages who have been impacted by Stephen’s spiritual leadership, mentoring, pastoral support and friendship. Throughout the evening were prevalent themes of legacy and commitment. This was evident in the many pre-recorded greetings from worldwide staff bands and other sections, alongside personal messages of gratitude from those whose lives have been positively impacted by Stephen.
A number of surprise items included Philip Cobbs’s rendition of the cornet solo ‘Sounds of Singing’, which had been written for his father while Stephen was principal cornet of the International Staff Band, and Matthew Cobb joining his brother on the solo cornet bench to play William Himes’s march ‘Rolling Along’.
The friendship between Stephen and former bandmaster of the New York Staff Band Ron Waiksnoris came to the fore as the pair reminisced on the journeys they had both shared through commencing leadership of the
respective staff bands in the 1990s. Their conversation provided a unique insight into significant events that both leaders had shared, as well as a recollection of previous personnel who had influenced Stephen’s musical and spiritual journeys, experiences and insights.
The venue for the weekend was also referenced at various points as being pivotal during Stephen’s early experiences of the International Staff Band as a child, as a young bandsman and then his subsequent leadership of the band for 32 years. It was evident that many of the young people attending the event had been attendees at the various music schools that Stephen had been a significant orchestrator or supporter of during his involvement with the International Staff Band as well as his role as director of Music and Creative Arts at Territorial Headquarters and bandmaster at Hendon Corps.
ISB Executive Officer Lieut-Colonel Paul Kingscott encouraged the congregation to consider the promises found in Psalm 23, to rest in all that God has promised us in this portion of Scripture, while recognising the dire needs of the world and the hope of the gospel that invites ourselves and others into a relationship with God. This challenge was depicted through Ray Steadman-Allen’s ‘On Ratcliff Highway’ interwoven with visuals highlighting the historic work of the Army and its current
mission around the world.
The final two pieces of music, Paul Sharman’s ‘Goodness of God’ and Marcus Venables’s ‘Holy Forever’, created a deep contrast in mood but acted as a reminder of God’s faithful promises to us and for generations to come. This was both powerful and challenging as we recognised – and gave thanks for – the work of God through Stephen’s service and music ministry over the past 50 years, and looked to the future as we continue to sing with the angels and creation in proclaiming God’s glory to the world.
The weekend continued on Sunday morning with further music to aid reflection and adoration of a holy God, writes Editor Major Julian Watchorn, and an acknowledgement that we do this through Christ alone. An afternoon concert brought the weekend to a close. Starting with the rousing piece ‘Motivation’ and concluding with the timeless classic ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’, the afternoon was filled with pieces that have been significant to Stephen across the years.
A certificate of recognition was presented by Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main acknowledging Stephen’s 32 years of service and his lasting legacy. In a moving moment, Stephen invited his successor, Jonathan Evans (Sale), to join him as they embraced one another.
United in pursuit of peace
GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham joined Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Nick Coke (THQ) and Secretary for International Ecumenical Relations Commissioner Jane Paone (IHQ) at a service celebrating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly.
The service, held at Methodist Central Hall, marked 80 years since the inaugural meeting of the UN General Assembly and brought together UN Secretary-General António Guterres, President of the General Assembly Annalena Baerbock and Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh, alongside ministers, diplomats, civic leaders, faith leaders, students and members of the public.
The service opened with ‘All My Hope on God Is Founded’ before the Rev Tony Miles, superintendent minister of Methodist Central Hall, gave words of welcome and an introduction. Following a video presentation, prayers and a choir anthem, there was an act of remembrance for all those killed in the service of the UN. Archbishop of Canterbury designate, the Right Rev and Right Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, read from Isaiah 61:1–9 and 11.
The overarching theme was one of reflection but with hope for the future, which was embodied by a speech by Lord Hannay of Chiswick, Britain’s permanent representative to the UN between 1990 and 1995, who encouraged those gathered not to give way to despair.
This was echoed in the readings from Romans 12 and the Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5:1–12), and in the sermon from recently retired Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who highlighted how, 80 years ago, seeds of a fresh global framework had been sown with a shared hope for enduring peace.
He said: ‘How do we rekindle the spirit that once found its expression in this hall? The gospel is where the work of peace begins in the heart of every person, with mutual respect, hospitality to strangers. The UN can play a key role in fostering dialogue and offering humanitarian support.’
Secretary-General António and youth representatives from different faiths read words in an act of rededication and commitment to the future, based on the original preamble to the UN Charter.
Each participant left with an awareness of their own responsibility in rekindling the spirit of peace, hope and unity that sprang from the first UN General Assembly. – AR
EVENT
BASINGSTOKE The Central, Southern and Channel Islands Division held its first residential weekend of this year’s Growing Leaders course at the corps. Seven young adults aged 18 to 25 took part. Throughout the weekend there was a shared sense of affirmation in God’s leading experienced by both the delegates and the leadership team. Participants explored Firm Foundations for Christian Leadership, engaging with four sessions that focused on leadership, establishing identity in Christ, discerning God’s call and developing Godly character. The teaching encouraged the delegates to deepen their relationships with God and to consider how he may be shaping them for leadership within their own contexts. Please hold Jasmine, Catherine, Freya, Anya, Amber, Beth and Jenna in your prayers as they learn, develop and seek God’s guidance for their lives and leadership. We also ask for prayer for the leaders and mentors who will journey alongside them throughout the course. – PJ-B
FUNDRAISING
FARNWORTH Young people from the town’s Unity Drama group raised £600 for the corps at their annual Christmas shop. They are pictured with corps leader Captain Tracy Collis and community manager Beverley Monteith. – TC
EVENT
LEIGH-ON-SEA Lieutenant Gav Dunn (Hackney Mare Street) and Major Georgina Symons (Histon) visited the corps to spend the day with David Stanley and the Music Man Project. Lieutenant Gav and Major Georgina also witnessed how the corps work together intentionally in partnership with the Music Man Project every week. David said: ‘My students always enjoy performing to visitors and we all look forward to supporting Hackney Mare Street as they embark on their own Music Man Project journey.’ Pictured are Clara Chung, Major Georgina, David, corps leader Captain Clare Davis and Lieutenant Gav. – RD/CD
EVENT
CHESTERFIELD Following the commission of a new made-to-measure mercy seat and holiness table, former corps leaders Majors Alex and Maggie Cadogan led a weekend of worship centred around the mercy seat from a biblical perspective. A teaching and worship session was held on Saturday, followed by refreshments. The new mercy seat and holiness table were dedicated during Sunday worship. There was a tremendous response from the congregation, whereby every member knelt in covenant renewal. – TC
REMEMBRANCE
FUNDRAISING
LONDON Bromley FC fans raised almost £3,000 for The Salvation Army by wearing fancy dress to a match. Led by 18-year-old Louie Saunders, more than 130 fans travelled in fancy dress to Lancashire to watch their team take on Accrington Stanley FC. ‘We chose The Salvation Army as it does so much to help families,’ said Louie. ‘We received some very generous donations – including £1,000 from our part-owner at Bromley Football Club, Anthony Serafino.’ The funds will go towards the Army’s community work. – AR
EVENT
HADLEIGH TEMPLE Old friendships were renewed and new ones made when Romford Band made the short journey over the M25 to visit the corps. The band led morning worship and played an afternoon concert featuring the music of Major Joy Webb. The theme of Love permeated the day, both in the worship and in the fellowship enjoyed over food and conversations. – MC
LEIGH-ON-SEA Corps leader Major Rob Davis represented the corps at the council’s Holocaust Memorial Day. Junior soldier Reuben sang with the Southend Boys and Girls Choirs during the service of commemoration. Other guests included members of parliament, the mayor of Southend, other church leaders and members of the Jewish community from Southend. – CD/RD
MEETING
BELFAST CITADEL Sunday worship was led by members of the corps in the style of African Praise. The meeting included powerful testimony, joyful singing, infectious dancing and authentic lived-out faith. – EW
HOMELESSNESS
WALES The Salvation Army has teamed up with Dogs Trust to make sure no one experiencing homelessness has to choose between a safe place to stay and the pet they love. The partnership will help Lifehouses to welcome dogs safely and responsibly, so that residents will not be separated from their pets. Abigail Owens, senior regional engagement officer at Dogs Trust, praised the Army’s compassionate and psychologically informed approach. For people navigating life without stable accommodation, a dog can offer stability, protection and emotional support. Rodrick, 18, from Cardiff said: ‘Knowing my dog is truly welcome here has been such a relief. Juno got me through the hardest time of my life, and having this support means we can both feel safe and cared for.’ – AR
ADDICTION
RHYL The corps has teamed up with charity Kaleidoscope to launch The Beacon, an outreach service supporting people over 18 with drug and alcohol use. The service aims to help more people get into treatment, improve their mental and physical wellbeing, and offer harm reduction advice that can prevent overdoses, deaths and other drug or alcohol-related harms. It will also help reduce pressure on emergency services. Catherine Docherty, area operations manager for Homelessness Services in Wales, said: ‘It is wonderful to see our church and community centre in Rhyl take such a forward-thinking and inclusive approach to supporting people across the town who face substance use challenges.’ Pictured is corps leader Major Chris Davidson at the launch. – AR
Salvationist wants to hear from you!
Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk to tell us about your events, outreach, fundraising, mission and more. Good quality pictures may be included.
Anderson, Flora
as soldiers by
and Ruth
were
Linda started regularly attending following the Covid-19 pandemic and became an adherent in 2023. Following recruits’ classes, she made the decision to become a soldier. Flora transferred from the Church of Scotland in 2023. She has become actively involved with the corps, including administering the registers at our Kids Club and Let’s Connect group, and taking a role in maintaining our corps library. Ruth remembers singing in the singing company and playing her tambourine in her early years. However, she lost contact with the corps for a number of years and, in 2024, started to attend worship and other social events. Following recruits’ classes, she made the decision to sign the Soldier’s Covenant. May God richly bless our newest soldiers. Also pictured is Recruiting Sergeant Major Mary McDonald. – AM
ON Covenant Sunday, Annette Bryant and Maureen Peters were welcomed as adherents by corps leader Major Emanuele Carpagnano. Annette felt the Lord leading her to join us one Sunday early in 2025, and she has never stopped coming. She testified that she felt such a strong, loving support from the whole congregation and feels certain that she has found her true spiritual home. Maureen started attending our weekly Tables group and accepted an invitation to come along to a Harvest service and meal in 2024. She felt such a welcome that she continued to attend, and both felt led to make this step to become adherents. Annette and Maureen are pictured with Major Emanuele and Liz Carpagnano. – EC
SWANSEA
MARILYN Owen was welcomed as an adherent by corps leaders Captains Jenni and Nick Pryor. Marilyn started attending Sunday worship after coming to the corps through our Wednesday Friendship Café. She decided to take the next step on her faith journey and requested ‘Love Divine, All Loves Excelling’ (SASB 262) to be sung by the congregation as her favourite song. – AZ
ANU, Rakesh, Jennifer and Joshua were welcomed as adherents by corps leaders Majors Angela and Graham Bailey. Having arrived in the UK, Anu testified that she knew, as a Christian, that she yearned for and needed to find a church family. When the rest of the family joined her several months later, her husband, Rakesh, came to the corps and found a welcome and warmth that resulted in the family choosing to worship at the corps. Although already part of the family, Covenant Sunday saw the family formally welcomed. Prayers were said over them as the church family surrounded them. – GB
MAIDENHEAD
WASHINGTON and Carter-Rose were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps leader Captain Rob Westwood-Payne on Covenant Sunday at the start of the corps 140th anniversary year. Washington testified that, while he has known Jesus as his Saviour for several years, becoming a junior soldier would allow him to serve the body of Christ through The Salvation Army and tell others about him. Carter-Rose told the congregation that becoming a junior soldier would help her to feel she belonged to the corps family, and that she wanted to get to know Jesus better and grow in her faith. – RW-P
ADDLESTONE
RINGWOOD
LINDA
Ferguson
Smail
enrolled
corps leader Captain Andrew Manley.
KIRKCALDY
RASHE Gavazza was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader Major Susan Dean, to the delight of the church family. Rashe has grown up in the corps and has developed into a beautiful young Christian woman. Rashe is pictured with Corps Sergeant-Major Pat Harvey, Major Susan and Recruiting Sergeant Wendy Willis. – PH
WILLIAM Witham, Ottis Marova, Dave Ridley and his son, Ben, and Kehinde Udaghe were welcomed as adherents by corps leader Captain Huw Dutfield. William recently started attending and helps with the luncheon club, charity shop and café. Ottis, from Zimbabwe, attends with his wife and family. Dave has been attending with his wife and children. Kehinde moved to the UK recently from Nigeria and has been attending with her two young daughters, with one recently enrolled as a junior soldier. All five are involved in worship at the corps and desired to make this commitment. – FT
STOKE-ON-TRENT
LINDA and David Mullaney were enrolled as soldiers by corps leader Major Carol Evans, supported by family members. Linda spoke of being invited to the corps lunch club upon moving to Hinckley a decade ago. They came along in the hope of making new friends and were invited to Sunday worship. After a couple of years, they became adherents and said: ‘We’ve talked a lot about becoming soldiers and with the help of Majors Frank and Mavis Pascoe, and the lessons and studies done with them, we believe it is God’s calling on our lives to make this covenant and extra commitment to him.’ David testified through the inclusion of ‘All That I Am’ (SASB 568). Pictured left to right are associate officer Lieutenant Chelsea Brevitt, Bandmaster Paul Hold, Major Carol, Linda, David and Majors Frank and Mavis. – CE
MIA Berry was enrolled as a soldier by her grandma, Divisional Envoy Margaret Berry. Mia and Margaret are pictured with corps leaders Majors David and Gillian Burns. Mia testified to the influence of many people leading her to this point of commitment and of the impact of Christian music in her life. – MS
HINCKLEY
BELLSHILL
STAPLEFORD
STOCKPORT CITADEL
LEAH Maddocks and Mary Brierley were welcomed as adherents by Major Violet Cummings. They both shared how God had helped them throughout their lives. – PD
Appointed
Effective 29 January
CAPTAIN TONY KAKANDE , additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (1 day per month), Mission Service
LIEUTENANT DAVID PERKINS, additional appointment, Divisional Candidates Officer, South East Division
Effective 26 March
MAJOR CHRISTA BEELDMAN, Weston-super-Mare
MAJOR PETER BEELDMAN, Weston-super-Mare
Effective 30 April
MAJOR MANDY SANDS, Hastings Citadel and Hastings Temple
Effective 25 June
CAPTAIN IAN ARTHUR , Glasgow City Centre
Effective 16 July
CAPTAIN NOVELLA STETTLER , Zurich North, Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory
CAPTAIN TIMON STETTLER , Zurich North, Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory
Local officers appointed
SONGSTER LEADER ALISON QUICK , Dunstable
Promoted to Glory
LORRAINE BARBER , Oakengates, from Princess Royal Hospital, Telford, on 9 January
BANDSMAN DEREK YATES, Hemel Hempstead, on 10 January
MAJOR EDWIN BROWN from The Royal Care Home, Rossington, on 20 January
MAJOR (EDITH) ANN ANDREWS, from St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger, on 23 January
Bereaved
MAJOR WANDA NICHOL of her brother Keith Nichol
RECRUITING SERGEANT VICKY YATES, Hemel Hempstead, of her husband Bandsman Derek Yates, Major Lucy Mann, Yorkshire and Humber DHQ, and Emma Yates of their father
MAJOR PAM BROWN of her husband Major Edwin Brown, Beverley, Ruth and Rachel of their father, and Rachel of her stepfather
MAJOR RITA ANDREWS, Norman Andrews and Derek Andrews of their sister Major (Edith) Ann Andrews
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Tue 17 Feb – Tue 24 Feb Uganda Territory
Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill Thu 19 Feb – Tue 24 Feb India South Eastern Territory
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Mon 9 Feb William Booth College (Together in Worship)* Thu 19 Feb Bournemouth (Territorial Youth Band and Choir) Fri 20 Feb Poole (Youth Makes Music concert) Sat 21 Feb – Sun 22 Feb Pontypool (145th corps anniversary)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 7 Feb – Sun 8 Feb Canterbury (International Staff Songsters)** Thu 12 Feb – Sun 15 Feb Warwick University (Mission Conference)** Fri 20 Feb Poole (Youth Makes Music concert) Sat 21 Feb Maidenhead (International Staff Band)
* Commissioner Paul Main only ** Colonel Peter Forrest only
NOTICES
Addictions training for corps
Join specialists in a series of nine monthly online training sessions for people in corps settings to increase their understanding of addiction and how to give effective support. The sessions will equip attendees with approaches and tools to work with people affected by addiction. The first will take place from 1.30pm to 3.30pm on 10 February and focus on emotional regulation. For more information, email will.pearson@salvationarmy.org.uk
Community Services survey
Take part in the annual Christmas Activities Survey from Community Services to help capture local mission, data and stories that show the impact of love in action at Christmas. The stories and statistics you provide help plan for next year in telling the Army’s story and driving engagement. The survey takes about 15 minutes and only needs one response per corps. Fill in your responses at surveymonkey.com/r/TSAChristmas2025 by 13 February.
Artists’ Corner
Have you made a piece of art, a drawing, a collage or something creative that’s inspired by your faith? We’d love to share it in our Artists’ Corner! Get in touch with us at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
The Small Fish Podcast
This podcast from the Children and Youth Department is for children moving from primary school to secondary school – addressing questions children ask and offering support during this transitional period. There is also an illustrated edition available, with light-hearted cartoons to support children as they dive into the big pond of secondary school.
• Listen to all 14 five-minute episodes at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
TO LET
ALTEA, SPAIN Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom heated apartment. Pool, tennis, garden, garage. Shops, restaurants, beach close, hill-walking. Warm winter area. Airport transfers available. Tel 02920 759314 or email jonesda19@outlook.com.
TOPSHAM, DEVON Two-bedroom cottage overlooking Exe Estuary and hills. Local shops, inns, teashops, walks. Coast, moors, Exeter nearby. Tel 02920 759314 or email jonesda19@outlook.com.
All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion. For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk
ADVERTISING RATES
Southend Citadel 42 Clarence Street SS1 1BD
Saturday 21 March, 7pm
Tickets: £12 plus booking fee ticketsource.co.uk/booking/init/FLMEDKG
MAIDSTONE, 74–80 UNION STREET ME14 1 ED
LAST NIGHT AT THE PROMS CONCERT
Featuring international singing sensation Charlie Green with Maidstone Salvation Army Band
Saturday 7 March, 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 adults | £5 children Tel 01622 681808 salvationarmy.org.uk/maidstone
Led by Commissioner William Cochrane with soloist Tina Shepherd Reunion Chorus led by ISS Leader Dorothy Nancekievill Saturday 21 March, 6.30pm: Festival of celebration
Sunday 22 March, 10am: Worship and shared lunch
If you have any memorabilia or photos, or you wish to be part of the Reunion Chorus, email hilary.gambling@salvationarmy.org.uk
RECRUITING NOW SOCIAL SERVICES TRUSTEE
The Salvation Army Trustee Company (SATCo), is the corporate trustee of the trusts under which The Salvation Army operates in the UK. SATCo is looking to recruit a trustee for its board with expertise in Social Services.
The Salvation Army is also one of the largest UK charities when ranked by voluntary income. The diversity of our work and the localised nature of a lot of what we do, means we are a complex body to govern. As more services are regulated, subsidiaries grow and expand and The Salvation Army itself remains involved in so many areas it is imperative that its strategic planning and governance are fit for purpose.
Accordingly, SATCo is seeking a social services expert for its board that can speak effectively to the issues presented before it. Other experts on its board include church ministry, investments, audit, finance and property. There will also be a requirement to chair the organisation’s Risk Management Committee, established to oversee and drive improvement in the enterprise risk management framework.
The following demonstrable skills and experience are desired:
• Board/trustee experience (essential)
• Relevant senior-level expertise in the area of social services and/or support services to the public
• A diploma in social work or a similar qualification
• Experience overseeing a diverse range of activities and operations (ideally in a faith or church context)
• An understanding of risk management processes, to include high level assessment and mitigation and the ability to provide leadership and direction to ensure adherence to governance frameworks
Most importantly you will bring a passionate Christian faith and be willing to engage with The Salvation Army positively and on a wide range of issues.
Salary
As with many trustee roles, this is unremunerated; expenses are reimbursed
Time commitment
Up to 9 board meetings a year, usually on the second Friday of the month, and 4 committee meetings a year, which occur once a quarter
Length of service 5 years
Closing date Midnight, 7 March
Interview date
To be confirmed
Full
x
ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.
