Salvationist 8 August 2020

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 8 August 2020

Lessons learnt Responding to Covid-19 in Bangladesh

PLUS

No.1768 Price 70p

WALK A MILE IN MY SHOES

SEE PAGE 14

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TURN TO FOOD BANKS IN LOCKDOWN Hundreds of international students in the UK have turned to food banks after part-time work and funding from families dried up during lockdown.

Some have been unable to pay their course fees and have been threatened with suspension by their universities which would result in their visas being cancelled.

At Newham Community Project in east London, volunteers are feeding up to 600 students, most in their early twenties. ‘They’re going through a lot of hardship,’ says organiser Elyas Ismail...

Some fear the pandemic means they will not be able to complete their qualifications. International students... studying full time at degree level or higher at a UK university... are usually allowed to work up to 20 hours a week, according to Home Office guidance...

Many have lost their jobs, while their families, in countries with their own outbreaks, can struggle to send funds overseas, but international students have no recourse to public funds in the UK...

Elyas... became aware of the problem at the end of the Muslim month of Ramadan... when about 50 students came into a local mosque asking for food. The numbers grew, so Newham Community Project ran [an] appeal for donations.

Before the pandemic they provided food for about 30 needy households each week.

CORONAVIRUS ‘HAS HIT CHURCH INCOME HARD’ Many churches have experienced a drop in income since the start of the pandemic, says Stewardship [a charity promoting generous and tax-effective giving], which is encouraging them to consider online giving as a way to reverse the decline...

Stewardship said that the months of lockdown have taken their toll financially, with many of the churches in its network reporting increasing financial challenges due to the lack of collection plate offerings over 12 weeks.

This continues to be a challenge for churches that do not have an online giving platform in place...

Stephen Moss, Stewardship’s Giving Services Church and Charity Lead, is encouraging churches to create a give.net church page to receive online donations.

The page can be customised for individual churches and a link sent out to members through which they can give online.

Christian Today

HATE CRIME BILL THREATENS FREE SPEECH, SAY SCOTTISH BISHOPS The freedom to disagree must be protected, bishops have said in response to the Scottish government’s controversial plans to expand hate crime laws.

The Catholic Church in Scotland voiced concerns that the Bible and expressing biblical values may be at risk if the Hate Crime and Public Order Bill is passed in its present form.

The bill proposes a new offence of ‘stirring up hatred’ but critics say the wording is too vague and poses a threat to free speech.

The proposals have been widely criticised by Christians, secularists, lawyers and the Scottish police.

In a submission to the public consultation... the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland said that any new law must be ‘carefully weighed against fundamental freedoms, such as the right to free speech, freedom of expression and freedom of thought, conscience and religion’.

Christian Today

CHRISTIAN GIVING APP GOES FREE TO HELP PEOPLE NOT GETTING GOVERNMENT SUPPORT A Christian tech company has made its app free for churches and charities who want to help those financially struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Esther app allows organisations to refer people who are cash-strapped to receive donations from anyone who wants to give to a good cause.

After a donor is matched with a recipient, a donation goes straight onto the recipient’s prepaid debit card and is monitored by the app to ensure the money is being used on necessities.

The Esther app has been running since last November with mostly refugees and people experiencing homelessness being helped in Northern Ireland.

BBC News

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GENERAL Brian Peddle

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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 8 August 2020

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 020 7367 4500 0845 634 0101

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

ISSN 2516-5909

FOUNDER William Booth

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS

WALKING TOWARDS A BETTER WORLD MY local council has kept residents well informed about the coronavirus situation in our borough, explaining the guidance we need to follow and outlining the measures and support it has put in place. The latest bulletin announced an expansion of ‘temporary measures to encourage walking and cycling on residential streets and improve the local environment’. More streets are being turned into cul-de-sacs where vehicle access is only allowed for residents and their visitors, and people can enjoy socially distanced exercise. The council has also ensured the measures show up on the latest version of drivers’ sat-navs. People are now taking advantage of the opportunity to get out and enjoy exercise and fresh air in these newly created low-traffic areas. It’s made a world of difference.

All sorts of people have emphasised the importance of exercise during the lockdown – from the prime minister, who has proposed making bikes available on prescription, to Joe Wicks, the fitness instructor whose series of YouTube videos – PE With Joe – were designed to help children stay active while stuck indoors. And they’ve made the point that exercise is not just about keeping physically fit – it can also benefit mental health. Psychologists say that even a 10-minute walk can help relieve the symptoms of anxiety and boost a person’s mood.

Members of the territory’s Well Being Department recognise the need for people to take care of their physical, mental and spiritual health. On pages 7 to 9 they offer resources and techniques to help us do this. ‘Exercise makes you feel good,’ they say, ‘so discover a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness.’ They make a few references to walking, including the suggestion that people working from home can create a daily routine by still walking to work – going out of the house and round the block before starting the working day. I’m missing my daily 20-minute walk from London Bridge station to THQ, so I might try this.

On pages 16 and 17, in his Bible study on the Transfiguration, Lieutenant Andrew Manley refers to an ‘incident hike’ where a normal walk leads to ‘an incident, challenge or something unexpected’. Lieutenant Lizette Williams suggests we do something similar – in a metaphorical sense – and she invites us on page 14 to ‘Walk a mile in my shoes’. She shares her experiences as a black woman growing up in The Salvation Army and makes important points that we need to understand and respond to.

Captains Heidie and Richard Bradbury have been walking in the shoes of people in Bangladesh during the coronavirus pandemic, as Richard indicates in his article on pages 10 and 11. They had the opportunity to leave with their children at the beginning of the outbreak but decided to stay. ‘It feels important to be journeying together with the people we serve alongside right now,’ Richard says. The experience has taught him a number of lessons, and he shares these with us.

Whether our walking is actual or metaphorical, it can have enormous benefits, for ourselves and others. Physically walking helps the body and the mind. Metaphorically walking in someone else’s shoes or walking alongside them in their difficulties raises our awareness and enables us to empathise with them. And if that leads to positive action, it will be a step along the path towards a better world.

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Quotes from the media

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Message from the Territorial Commander

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News

5 and 6

Prayer matters

6

Resources Well-being toolkit

7 to 9

by Majors David Ryder, Carole Harries, Jan Thompson and Robert Pearce

Viewpoint 10 and 11 Learning lessons from a crisis

by Captain Richard Bradbury

Feature 12 and 13 Lieut-Colonel Norman Bearcroft: The man and the music

by Major John Mott

Viewpoint Walk a mile in my shoes

14

by Lieutenant Lizette Williams

Reflection Baffled and perplexed? Me too

15

by Major Mal Davies

Bible study Who do you see?

16 and 17

by Lieutenant Andrew Manley

Through the week with Salvationist

16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

From the archive Uniform behaviour

18

by Commissioner Keith Banks

Fundraising Raising funds with pedal power

19

by Angela Carlucci

Letter from the Chief Secretary 20 and 21 Coronavirus impact update Announcements

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Adverts

23

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring Nicola Walmsley

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

Salvationist 8 August 2020

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Buried treasure

I

NSIDE an old Bible of mine is something that I found among the rubbish when Gill and I moved into one of our corps. I went into the backyard of the hall at Arbroath, which backs on to a public car park, and discovered all sorts of rubbish: beer cans, Coke cans, crisp packets and so on. As I cleared it out, to my amazement I found a £1 note. It was soaking wet, dirty and frayed on the edges. I’ll explain why I keep it in my Bible in a moment.

In Matthew 13 there are some wonderful parables that Jesus told. Two of them are in three short verses: the parables of the buried treasure and the pearl of great price. Jesus said, ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.

Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it’ (vv44–46).

The interpretation generally given is

that Jesus is the treasure and the pearl of great price, and to possess him we are invited to sell everything – to be sold out for him – so that we might be at one with him. It’s an admirable interpretation.

He is worthy of us laying everything down in order that we might be with him.

In the Army songbook we have reference to the pearl of great price: ‘I’ve found the pearl of greatest price,/ My heart doth sing for joy;/ And sing I must, for Christ I have,/ O what a Christ have I!/ My Christ, he is the Lord of lords,/ He is the King of kings’ (SASB 869). The picture is that Christ is the pearl of greatest price and that we will do everything we possibly can to possess it.

However, it doesn’t sit comfortably with me that somehow I can amass enough wealth or enough credit to possess the King of kings and Lord of lords. My understanding of the gospel is actually the reverse: it’s Jesus who comes looking for us. He’s the one who goes looking for the lost sheep, for the lost coin, for the prodigal child. He’s the one who takes the initiative.

It might be a shock to some of us that we are the treasure, we are the pearls of great price. You and I are precious in his sight. Some of you might find this difficult to accept. You might be thinking, ‘I’m just an ordinary person. How could I possibly be of such worth?’ Yet the reality is that you could be buried treasure.

We could sit very comfortably with the idea that we’re buried up to our eyes in rubbish. ‘That’s more my reality,’ we might say. And that brings me back to my £1 note, because I think God in Christ not only steps down into our rubbish, he sorts it out and, as we hold

our hands out to him, he lifts us and begins to carry us home.

There’s a great song near the start of the songbook: number 32, penned by Stuart Townend. It says: How deep the Father’s love for us, How vast beyond all measure, That he should give his only Son To make a wretch his treasure.

How great the pain of searing loss – The Father turns his face away, As wounds which mar the chosen One Bring many sons to Glory.

Behold the man upon a cross, My sin upon his shoulders; Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice Call out among the scoffers.

It was my sin that held him there, Until it was accomplished; His dying breath had brought me life – I know that it is finished.

I will not boast in anything, No gifts, no power, no wisdom; But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection.

Why should I gain from his reward?

I cannot give an answer, But this I know with all my heart, His wounds have paid my ransom.

It’s that beautiful picture of God in Christ coming for us, taking us and leading us home. That’s why I kept the dirty £1 note that is frayed at the edges.

It reminds me that I am of great price to Christ. I’m held by him and I’m loved by him, as are you.

So may God bless you as you walk forward with him – with the one who holds us in his hand, the one who sees us as a precious gem – as he leads us and as his blessing is upon us and through us, encouraging us to always reflect his light and love and glory into the world.

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER O This

message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ user/salvationarmyvideo

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Salvationist 8 August 2020

NEWS

ARMY NEWS

BIRTHDAY

COMMUNITY

Army to feature on Songs Of Praise

Helping schools to lock down hunger

HADLEIGH FARM

UK

SOME examples of The Salvation Army’s frontline work will feature on Songs Of Praise this month.

Filmed at Hadleigh Farm Estate, the episode is expected to feature the farm’s history and its work today helping unemployed or marginalised members of society to find employment, as well as its role as a food distribution hub connected to Basildon food bank.

The International Staff Songsters’ 40th anniversary will be covered, including interviews with three young ISS members from the Northwood family and member Lesley Nicholson, who is a prison chaplain.

The return of Lieutenant Daniel Holland (Homelessness Services Unit) to the NHS as a trained nurse and the music and dance group Timbreltastic will also be featured.

The broadcast is scheduled for 23 August on BBC One. – AR

THE Salvation Army has joined with other church networks and charities for Lockdown Hunger, an initiative to support children and families in need over the summer.

Government data shows 4.1 million children in poverty. Out of these, 1.3 million qualified for free school meals.

During the coronavirus crisis, more households will face urgent needs, with some of their support networks cut off. For many families, schools have been a source of food and activities as well as education.

Lockdown Hunger encourages churches to approach schools in their area to discuss needs and offer help through the summer. Churches can provide support through deliveries, food, activities or games.

Other partners in the initiative include YourNeighbour.org, The Message Trust, Transforming Lives for Good, Audacious and Love Your Neighbour. – AR

HARWICH The corps secured funding from DHQ to distribute 95 summer food boxes for vulnerable families, providing groceries for more than 500 people. The corps worked with charity Homestart Harwich and six primary schools that nominated vulnerable families to receive a food box at the start of the summer holidays. Letters were included in the boxes to remind recipients that they are loved by God and that the corps is there to support them. Corps folk, volunteers from the community and Cally Short, the Community Champion from Morrisons, helped pack and deliver the parcels. – SM WINTON Corps members Mary Randell and Malcolm Clarke and volunteer Rosemary Veale, who have respectively held trustee positions at Michael House for 18, 25 and 25 years, were each presented with a planted flower pot to acknowledge their service. The corps has long assisted the supported accommodation facility. – GT

May Keen celebrates her 100th birthday; she was visited by a small group from Ivybridge Corps

OUTREACH Before the new Public Health England guidance about playing instruments outdoors six members of Exeter Temple Band played in the city centre

COMMUNITY

FUNDRAISING

Steffan Kerr, connected to Belfast North, has his hair cut to donate to the Little Princess Trust, which provides wigs for young people with no hair due to various medical conditions Salvationist 8 August 2020

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Pra Prayer Pr P rraay

NEWS

PRAISE AND WORSHIP FOCUS Karen Findlay (Wellingborough)

SATURDAY 8 AUGUST The psalmist invites us to worship and bow down before God. Why? Because he is our God (see Psalm 95:6 and 7). As this week unfolds, let us worship and praise God because God is who he says he is. He is worthy of our praise!

SUNDAY 9 AUGUST ‘Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house; I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe’ (Psalm 5:7 New Living Translation). We can come into the awesome presence of God because of his love for us. What an incredible truth! As you pray, allow that truth to seep into your thoughts. God loves you. Whatever the day brings, that truth stands firm.

MONDAY 10 AUGUST ‘In every place of worship, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy’ (1 Timothy 2:8 NLT ). Timothy is reiterating something Jesus taught, that we are to mend relationships with others. When we pray we must first forgive others (see Matthew 6:12, 14 and 15). Ask God to reveal to you those relationships in your life that need healing, and help you to forgive.

TUESDAY 11 AUGUST ‘I bow before your holy Temple as I worship. I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; for your promises are backed by all the honour of your name’ (Psalm 138:2 NLT ).

God has promised so much and his promises are true. As we worship and pray, we can trust that he will hear because he has promised he will. As you pray, claim a promise from God over your life. Worship him and praise him. His love endures for ever!

WEDNESDAY 12 AUGUST ‘They worshipped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity’ (Acts 2:46 NLT ). Worship in community is important. In Acts we can see this template for church: worship, sharing, expressing joy and generosity. Pray for all those with whom you are sharing your journey of faith. Praise God for the truth that we are not alone. Even now there is a community praying with you.

THURSDAY 13 AUGUST ‘Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds’ (1 Chronicles 16:9 NLT ). God has done so much. Pray today that you will have an even deeper awareness of those with whom you need to share your experience of the wonderful deeds of God. FRIDAY 14 AUGUST ‘And the Lord will be king over all the Earth. On that day there will be one Lord – his name alone will be worshipped’ (Zechariah 14:9 NLT ). This verse reveals a vision of what is to come. If our world ever needed this to be so, it needs it now.

Pray that the world will see Jesus and worship him.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources Salvationist Salvationist Date 18 Month July 2020 Year

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CORPS BELFAST NORTH Youth workers have been making regular visits to young people in the corps during the lockdown. Coronavirus restrictions prevented children from gathering for their YP outing and prize-giving weekend but each child received their prize personally. They were reminded that although they weren’t together in the same building they were still a family – God’s family – and that they would soon be together again. – LK

COMMUNITY

Food Share helps people facing unemployment GATESHEAD THE corps Sunday Food Share programme has increased dramatically during the coronavirus pandemic. As well as providing food – especially fresh fruit and vegetables – the programme has supported people with many other issues including fear and isolation, and those facing unemployment.

A Chinese national who was no longer able to work at a local takeaway received weekly provisions for meals. A volunteer was able to converse with him in Mandarin and he contacted her to say how thankful he was for the corps support and kindness.

A victim of domestic abuse, who had recently been rehoused and was looking for work, was referred to the corps by the Jobcentre. He accepted donations of food and a toaster and microwave to help him set up his home.

He expressed how grateful he was for the support he’d received.

A man claiming universal credit for the first time received a substantial food parcel for him and his 12-year-old son. The corps was able to signpost him to support organisations for specialist help. He contacted the corps to say that all his major issues were on the way to being resolved and to thank them for their non-judgmental, friendly support. – AH Is your corps adapting to the coronavirus crisis through innovative ministry opportunities? Salvationist wants to hear from you.

Send your news to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk. Good quality pictures will be included.

RESOURCES

Well-being TOOLKIT Members of the Well Being Department* suggest resources and techniques to help us strengthen our well-being and mental health

T

HE mission statement for the Well Being Department is: ‘We will be a proactive service working in partnership with other services to ensure that the people working within the mission of The Salvation Army are able to flourish and fulfil the offer of Jesus to have life in all its fullness.’

The department has been working very differently since the coronavirus outbreak. Our face-to-face sessions have been replaced with online support and our residential events have been cancelled. We have delivered key support to officers and managers, worked with the staff of our Homelessness and Older People’s Services and provided one-off conversations

to help people process the implications of the lockdown.

Working with the School for In-Service Training and Development we have moved some of our resources on to video, including Understanding Grief, Pastoral Peer Debriefing Model, Supporting People Through Trauma and the Rhythms of Rest retreat.

Not many of us will have experienced uncertain times like this before. So how do we begin to safeguard and strengthen our well-being, resilience and mental health as some of the lockdown restrictions are being released? Here are some resources and techniques that you may find helpful.

*Majors David Ryder, Carole Harries, Jan Thompson and Robert Pearce Salvationist 8 August 2020

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NAMING EMOTIONS

FIVE WAYS TO WELL-BEING

It is completely normal to experience a wide range of emotions, and accepting this is an important first step to building resilience. The simple act of naming your emotions benefits well-being, so take a few minutes to tune into your body and notice how you are feeling – anxious, stressed, fearful, overwhelmed, guilty, angry, lonely or helpless. It’s OK to feel discomfort. Accepting distress is often the quickest way to feel calmer.

It may be helpful to draw up a list of things you have control over: washing your hands and good hygiene, staying at home, what you consume (food, water, media and news), self-care, your thoughts and actions and reaching out for support from others.

But also list those things that you have no control over: the world situation and the spread of the virus, how other people respond to the virus, the government’s response, regulations, statistics and facts.

Make it a priority to look after your mental health during the coming weeks and months. The most up-to-date evidence suggests that building the following five actions into our day-to-day lives is important for well-being.

Make connections Think of the connections you have with people as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing those relationships. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.

Keep learning Try something new or rediscover an old interest you haven’t had time to invest in. Fix a bike or learn to play an instrument, for example. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving.

Be active If you are not shielding, step outside, walk or run, spend time in the garden or dance. Exercising makes you feel good, so discover a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness. There are also plenty of gentle workouts online.

Take notice Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling. Be curious.

Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are walking to work, eating lunch or talking with friends. Reflecting on your experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you.

Give During the pandemic we have seen many people going the extra mile. So do something nice for a friend or neighbour, say thank you to someone or send them a card, share in a random act of kindness. Seeing yourself and your happiness linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and creates connections with the people around you.

O The

Five Ways To Well-being resources are available from dpt.nhs.uk/FiveWays

SPIRITUAL FORMATION Your spiritual journey is key to strengthening well-being. Reflecting on verses of Scripture will bring a sense of hope and contentment. For example: ‘Do not yield to fear, for I am always near. Never turn your gaze from me, for I am your faithful God. I will infuse you with my strength and help you in every situation. I will hold you firmly with my victorious right hand’ (Isaiah 41:10 The Passion Translation).

‘Now may God, the inspiration and fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in him. And may the power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with his super-abundance until you radiate with hope!’ (Romans 15:13 TPT).

Here are some resources to support our spiritual well-being: O Apps for smartphones such as Lectio 365 or Pray As You Go O Salvation Army Prayer Network: salvationarmy.org.uk/our-faith/prayer-resources O Christian mindfulness exercises: christianmindfulness.co.uk/audio-meditation

WORKING FROM HOME The Church Pastoral Aid Society produced a guide to working from home as the pandemic began to impact the UK. It provides three top tips:

FINDING BALANCE 2020 Psychology Tools Ltd has provided a tool to help look after your well-being by finding balance. It can be helpful to organise a daily routine that involves a balance between three activities.

Achievement Give yourself a sense of achievement – a feeling that you have accomplished something. It could be work related, completing an online short course, a baking competition across the team or family, a gardening project or knitting a hat.

Pleasure There are activities you can do just for pleasure – things that make you feel joyful. Reading a book, watching a comedy film, series or special, taking a relaxing bath or sitting in the garden with your coffee.

Connection Some activities help you feel connected with others. With restrictions beginning to be lifted, family and friends are able to connect again in person after weeks of virtual meetings or phone calls. Having social time will boost your well-being.

Create a comfortable workspace Few people will have the luxury of a dedicated room to work in but, if possible, identify a workspace and set it up to function well. Create some symbolic things that help you know when you are working and when you are doing other things. It could be as simple as putting a Post-it note at the bottom of your screen that says ‘At work’. Don’t eat lunch where you are working. At the end of the working day tidy up your workspace and prepare it for tomorrow’s work or for another use.

Establish a routine Going to work helps us by offering a number of routines that bring structure to our day. As much as possible, establish a similar set of routines for working from home.

Wake up at the same time and get dressed for work. Walk to work – some people find it helpful to go out of their house, round the block and come back into the house to start work. Monitor how many times you go to the fridge to snack! Create a timetable that includes regular breaks.

See it as an opportunity This is a new way of working for many people. While it poses challenges, it also provides opportunities. As well as using new tools that may enable better working in the future, for example Lifesize or Zoom, we may also learn new work patterns that will serve us well. There will be some frustrations, but even these provide an opportunity to grow in patience, flexibility and creativity.

The guide goes on to detail three common challenges: boundaries, which are more difficult when working from home; isolation, where people miss the buzz of the office space and social interactions; productivity, when doing the same things each day is wearisome and distracting. This is also a time to learn new practices that will help bring energy and focus to our work.

O The

guide is available from cpas.org.uk by searching for ‘home working’

In times of uncertainty we can lose a sense of balance when the majority of our thinking time is given over to worries. There are lots of legitimate concerns and unanswerable questions right now. Many well-being strategies highlight the importance of being grateful. What if we were to balance out our grumbles with gratitude? We could dilute some of the toxic impact of worry by taking time each day to name the things we are grateful for – speaking them to God in prayer, recording them in a journal, writing them out and putting them in a gratitude jar or naming them in whatever way works for you.

Research shows that cultivating gratitude has a wide range of benefits, including reducing stress, boosting mood, strengthening our immune system and improving sleep. Doing this as part of your daily routine will support your mental health too.

Salvationist 8 August 2020

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VIEW POINT

Learning lessons from a crisis Captain Richard Bradbury shares what he has learnt from the Covid-19 response in Bangladesh BANGLADESH is in an extremely vulnerable position when it comes to Covid-19. It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with more than 160 million people living in an area half the size of the UK. It also has one of the lowest testing rates for coronavirus and social distancing is near impossible. Here are five things I have learnt during these turbulent times.

First, being ‘with’ people is harder when it impacts on your family. I’ll start with my own struggles. Many of our friends agonised over a difficult decision to be either evacuated out by their embassy or stay and work. Most have gone. Watching from the roof of our apartment block as the evacuation planes flew over was not for the faint-hearted and brought all sorts of feelings of confusion and self-doubt.

Questioning whether I was being a good father by keeping my children in a small apartment with no outdoor activities or walks, manoeuvring three months of distance-learning with minimal resources and increasing their uncertainty about when they will ever get to see their grandparents again was not a great feeling.

I understand why people left, and a big part of me wishes I could be home.

But I believe The Salvation Army has an important role to play at this challenging time, so we stayed, helping to support life-giving emergency relief projects and life-saving essential medical services. It feels important to be journeying together with the people we serve alongside right now, but it is not without fluctuating emotions. We continue to pray that our faith remains stronger than our fears.

Second, we are not all equal but we do have things in common. I have heard people say many times that this crisis makes us all equal. It does not. We are not. Yes, Covid-19 is indiscriminate and,

‘

We need to find a new way of doing things that reflects the realities of life for people in poverty

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Salvationist 8 August 2020

’

yes, we are all facing the same storms, but this does not equate to a new-found global equality. It seems we are not all in the same boat.

Even in Bangladesh the coronavirus pandemic does not make things equal between its anxious citizens and residents. I am able to stock up selfishly on food and medicine for a few weeks, while most people in Bangladesh are daily wage earners and struggle to live hand to mouth. I have ample space in my flat to isolate, while a few metres away people are nervously cooped up with anywhere between five and ten others, living in a one-roomed shack and sharing water and toilet facilities at

risky public points. This crisis has also laid bare the poor state of health systems in some of the world’s developing countries, where health insurance or state care are not even a remote possibility.

What emerges, however, are beautiful commonalities of wounded humanity in crisis. We all share kindness, strength and resilience as general societal and individual characteristics. Through the crisis we have seen this all over the world. Kindness abounds across Bangladesh when it comes to sharing generously with others, no matter where you live.

Sometimes it takes a disaster to bring out the strength in individual people or a population. Resilience is found in the least likel yof places, unexpectedly reminding us that we all have a lot to learn from those who constantly bounce back from setbacks.

I have also learnt that fair trade is not necessarily fair during times of crisis.

We are all connected, not just by handshakes or door handles but on a more colossal scale.

In these connections we see the best and worst in people. The best comes through the big-hearted support given by government, charities, businesses, individuals and, for us, our supporting offices and territories. We have been enormously inspired by the selfless Salvation Army officers, employees and volunteers in Bangladesh who, without any query or question, step up and step out to help the most vulnerable in their communities.

However, it is very difficult to sit and watch as many of the companies we use back home simply cancel orders or put them on hold, or demand an instant discount, condemning millions of Bangladeshi garment workers to being

sent home, unpaid and unemployed.

I understand business is business but I can’t help thinking that it is easy to have good ethics and fair trade when things are going well, but as soon as something goes wrong the problem gets shifted down the line once again and, ultimately, the poorest are the most vulnerable and hardest hit.

Another lesson is that local solutions are possible. With a global scramble for equipment we are seeing local solutions emerge and the very best of the creative and innovative Bangladeshi minds come to the fore.

In rural communities the same inventiveness is on display when it comes to making soap or disinfectant, or implementing awareness-raising activities.

Bangladesh has a great history of running successful community-based programmes in relation to family planning, child illnesses, leprosy and TB. We see this shining through again.

The Salvation Army is present in communities and participates in many of these approaches. Resourceful and faithful people inspire hope and manage to reassure us that things might not turn out to be as bad as was predicted.

My final lesson? We need to learn new ways of doing things. Our strategic plans, mission statements and budgets don’t prepare us for disasters, shocks or pandemics. The developed world is understanding this more than ever right now, but for most of the developing world this is just the next in a line of disasters and shocks. In the midst of this pandemic Bangladesh is also preparing for dengue fever and the monsoon season.

My friend Matt White spoke recently about how this is a time when we need to unlearn things while we have space to reflect. That’s a sincere challenge for organisations as well as individuals. We can no longer revert to the way we used to do things, especially when that way largely benefits the agenda of the developed world. We need to find a new, more flexible way of doing things that reflects the realities of life for people in poverty, regardless of which country we live in.

CAPTAIN BRADBURY IS GENERAL SECRETARY, BANGLADESH COMMAND Salvationist 8 August 2020

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FEATURE I Lieut-Colonel Norman Bearcroft

The man and the music In the second of two articles, Major John Mott recalls the life and service of Lieut-Colonel Norman Bearcroft, who was promoted to Glory in June

Norman and Jill

A

FTER returning from Canada to become National Secretary for Bands in 1976, Norman’s first job was to prepare for the Tylney Hall School of Music. In 1977 it moved to Cobham Hall and went co-ed. The major work for the band was ‘Romans 8’ by Ray Steadman-Allen. After the first rehearsal there was an absence of the usual banter and all were aware that the Lord was present. Nothing was said as, one by one, the students left what had become a holy place.

Before moving to Canada Norman had been involved in the first Holiday plus Fellowship at Butlins in Clacton-on-Sea. He now returned, but to a new venue, Bognor Regis, and with new officers in the entertainment team. Among them were Ann and Peter Mylechreest. Peter arrived, not quite knowing what to expect, and was told to pretend to be the mayor of Bognor Regis, complete with chain of office, and to give a long speech of welcome in the opening ceremony.

Norman was standing behind Peter while 12

Salvationist 8 August 2020

he droned on, and began shaking and checking his watch. Some members of the audience were giggling while others were seemingly shocked at Norman’s behaviour towards the ‘mayor’. Norman disappeared and came back with a chair to sit on, then feigned falling asleep. Eventually twigging that it was a set-up, the theatre erupted with laughter.

The programme for the week now involved three shows, performed twice each night. Among these were Robin Hood, The Desert Song and many episodes of Biggles. For these, Norman wrote a version of the 20th Century Fox fanfare to be played before each show. At 10 pm there would be a singalong, mainly Army songs requested by the campers, all with Norman’s good humour thrown in.

Trevor Davis was appointed National Bandmaster to assist Norman in preparing for the 1978 congress, which was to include the centenary of Army banding.

These tasks included the establishment of four separate 1,000-voice choruses, with members from all over the territory, all of whom needed music – 80,000 duplicated sheets of it – and numerous rehearsals.

There were also a dozen or so touring groups from overseas. Trevor describes Norman during this period as completely unflappable.

In 1979 General Arnold Brown sent for Norman and asked if he would bring into being the International Staff Songsters, saying they were to sing ‘the heart songs of the Army’. Norman jumped at this opportunity. The first thing to do was to find the personnel. He had majored with Army banding for many years and said he did not know of too many good singers. But word got round and he finally gathered a fine group. At the inauguration festival in

Fairfield Halls in March 1980, the first ISS song was a new setting by Norman of ‘Jesus, The Very Thought Of Thee’ (SASB 85), with soloist Jacqui Proctor singing the opening lines.

As with the International Staff Band, the ISS were expected to be at Army events throughout the year in addition to monthly visits to corps. Their first overseas tour was to the USA in 1986, and CD recordings were made, many of them featuring songs and arrangements by Norman.

A couple of years later Norman was asked to be musical director for a sevenweek Anglia TV series about the Army.

Music was to be a major part of the series, which was called Marching As To War, presented by Roy Castle.

An international congress was on the horizon for 1990, including a composers festival at Wembley Arena, an international brass festival in the Royal Albert Hall, a 1,000-voice chorus for Sunday at Wembley, a 600-voice chorus plus three songster brigades for a vocal festival and another mammoth weekend to finish the congress.

In 1992, just before Norman and Jill’s retirement, the last annual Royal Albert Hall festival that Norman organised took place, the guests being the New York Staff Band. This festival was the 16th arranged

by Norman and, in his words, there was a lot of Bearcroft music! Jill was promoted to Glory in 2002 and her ashes were scattered in the New Forest, their holiday home for many years.

When Norman was visiting New York, where he had been invited as guest at a Profile Night promoted by the New York Staff Band, he met his second wife, Major Kathleen Ljungholm. After the concert he and Kathy went for an ice cream, love

The ISS, 1980

Norman at the press launch of ‘Marching As To War’ with Commissioner Harry Williams (series consultant), Felicity Maton (director and producer) and Roy Castle

blossomed and a few weeks later they were married.

Norman and Kathy lived in New York until Kathy’s retirement, when they moved to New Jersey.

Norman was my friend and colleague, which is a statement that could be made by many people. He had that knack of making you feel special and encouraging you in whatever you were engaged with. We understood one another and at times were like brothers. It was a real privilege to have counted him as my friend.

His legacy will be found, not only in his powerful personality and musical skills, but in his compassion for people, his love of family, his love of God and his love of The Salvation Army.

He testified: ‘The best decision I ever made was to become a Salvation Army officer!’

Ray Steadman-Allen said: ‘Norman has had about 70 band items published, but this can only represent a fraction of his output, especially when

including the choral works.

There is nothing pallid or watery about Norman’s music. It is positive, usually cheerful and energetic. Yet the affection poured into the arrangement of a tune like ‘Unsworth’ – central to ‘Song Of Exaltation’ – is to encounter craftsmanship with warmth and character. The approachability, buoyancy and compelling warmth of his music is but a sound-translation of the man and heart behind it.’

I would go silently, Lord, when I come to thee; Glide as some gallant barque Into the mighty dark.

Softly and gently ride O’er the receding tide; Steer from the shores of time T’ward an eternal clime.

Lord, on a quiet sea Let me sail home to thee.

Words: Catherine Baird Music: Norman Bearcroft MAJOR MOTT LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN SOHAM Salvationist 8 August 2020

13

VIEW POINT

Walk a mile in my shoes Lieutenant Lizette Williams begins a series of articles in which black, Asian and ethnic minority Salvationists share their experiences MY story with The Salvation Army began before my birth when my mum, aged 13, came across an open-air meeting in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. She enjoyed the exuberant worship and was so drawn to the timbrels that she followed them back to the corps. She received a warm welcome there and found a church where she could belong.

There is no doubt that my mum is called to be a Salvationist. But this calling was challenged when we arrived in the UK. She did not find the sense of belonging that she had felt in Africa. As a family, we all experienced lazy, careless racism within our Movement.

I remember the first time she went to the Army in the UK. She was so excited because the corps was within walking distance of our home and she was made to feel so welcome.

Unfortunately, that welcome did not last long and we learnt the difference between a warm greeting and an actual welcome. This was emphasised when a member of the corps said to her that if she was uncomfortable at the corps, she should just find a church with more people like her. Those words alone were brutally shocking and hurtful. To my family, we were just like everyone else in the corps, as we were all Salvationists, but that comment led us to feel unwanted and rejected because we did not ‘fit in’, as the majority of people in the corps were not ‘like us’.

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Salvationist 8 August 2020

This person was perhaps trying to be helpful, but at the time it hurt us as a family. However, we were called, so we stayed. That does not mean that things got easier. We often felt ignored and white people looked at us as if they were wondering what we were doing at the corps.

We were often made to feel the same way at divisional and territorial events.

This was especially hard for me and my siblings, as we were always eager to meet young Salvationists at youth events but we were mostly rejected in those places too. It was tough to hear conversations of young white Salvationists talking about us being black.

I thank God for my mum because, despite the pain and hurt that we experienced, she was obedient to God’s calling on her life and she did not give up on The Salvation Army. Every Sunday she would wake us up and make sure that we attended the meeting. She encouraged us not to give up but to trust Jesus. We continued to trust in Jesus as we carried on serving within the corps.

After a few years we gradually began to be accepted.

Our assistant singing company leader, who later became our singing company leader, was an amazing woman. She looked after us. She gave us lifts and drove us to Army youth events. She cooked us Sunday lunch!

Those difficult times were made so much easier by her caring for us. She was not the only person to have a positive impact in our lives. I am grateful to God for all those people who, without realising it, made such a difference to our lives. They did simple things, like saying hello and just checking up on us.

These experiences are hard to put down on paper. I believe that white people often do not realise that what they are saying is racist and painful to

someone. It saddens me to say that little has changed in the 22 years I have been a Salvationist in the UKI Territory.

The coronavirus lockdown has given us all an opportunity to look at life differently. Maybe you have not noticed people in your corps being discriminated against. Maybe you have noticed but have kept quiet. This is the time to speak up. This is the time to stand up against any injustice. A passage that keeps coming back to me is Micah 6:8: ‘He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.’ I hope that, as we start coming out of lockdown and move forward, we as a Movement will not keep quiet in the face of injustice, but instead act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God. LIEUTENANT WILLIAMS IS CORPS OFFICER, BASILDON

Lizette, Paul and Martha Williams

REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION N REFLECTION

Baffled and perplexed?

Me too Major Mal Davies begins a new series in which people reflect on a favourite prayer

I

THINK Thomas gets a bad rap. For 2,000 years he has been the poster boy for doubt and uncertainty; even in the secular world people use the phrase ‘doubting Thomas’ only in a negative context. Poor Thomas.

I like Thomas; he’s one of my favourite biblical characters. Having said that, he’s only mentioned 11 times in the whole Bible and five of those are just his name listed alongside those of other disciples.

His name only appears by itself on three occasions: at the raising of Lazarus, when he comments at the Last Supper, and four times – most memorably – at a post-Resurrection appearance of Jesus.

The ‘doubting Thomas’ reference comes from a passage in John 20. On the evening of the Resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples but Thomas was not present. When the disciples saw Thomas, they told him that Jesus was alive and Thomas said that until he could touch Jesus’ wounds he wouldn’t believe it.

A week later, Jesus appeared to them all and immediately confronted Thomas, saying: ‘Stop doubting and believe’ (v27).

Thomas – without even touching Jesus – fell to his knees and replied: ‘My Lord and my God!’ (v28).

And that’s Thomas. Five mentions, three appearances, his longest dialogue covered in just five verses. Yes, he showed some doubt about Jesus being alive, but if I told you that someone you’d seen buried a few days earlier was alive again, wouldn’t you question it?

The sobriquet ‘doubting’ is based almost solely on Jesus’ words to Thomas, and – just like that – doubting Thomas he was dubbed and for evermore shall be known.

One of my favourite prayer books is When I Talk To You, a collection of prayers and illustrations by Australian cartoonist, poet and writer Michael Leunig. It contains a short prayer that I’ve used in various ministry settings, from sermons and prayer meetings to pastoral visits: ‘God bless the lost, the confused, the unsure, the bewildered, the puzzled, the mystified, the baffled and the perplexed. Amen.’

When I first read the prayer it – ironically – confused me a little. I’d always believed that Christians are supposed to be sure of every nuance of faith, deeply convicted of spiritual truth and solid as a rock in their beliefs and spiritual persuasions. Surely this prayer was only for wavering, irresolute, faltering, foolish heathen types who didn’t know what to believe?

One morning recently, as I attended to my daily devotions, I made some notes in my Bible alongside a passage that I’d read many times before but, as I focused closely on it, found more and more mystery in its words. I sat back in my chair and thought: ‘You’ve read this passage hundreds of times. You’ve heard it preached on. You’ve read about it in commentaries. You’ve done formal biblical and theological studies. You’ve been a Christian your whole life and an officer for nearly 20 years. How can it be that you still don’t get what Jesus is saying here?’

Are Christians allowed to be confused, unsure, bewildered, puzzled, mystified, baffled and perplexed, or should we know the answer to every question of faith and Scripture and doctrine?

I like Thomas because he wanted to be sure. He didn’t want to take what others said on face value; he wanted to find out for himself. By seeing the risen Jesus, Thomas would know his faith was built on a solid foundation. He needed to do what he needed to do, not for others but for himself.

History and tradition tell us that

Thomas travelled to India and helped establish Christianity there; today there are more than 28 million Christians in India. As Thomas was preaching to people about Christ and trying to convince them of the Resurrection, imagine the difference between him saying, ‘I know Jesus was resurrected; my friends told me they’d seen him,’ and, ‘I know Jesus was resurrected; I was with him.’

‘Doubting Thomas’ could just as easily be called ‘convinced and convicted Thomas’. His doubts prompted him to seek truth.

So as I read this small prayer by Leunig, I’m reminded that it’s OK to have questions and to sometimes be a confused, baffled and puzzled Christian.

It’s in seeking answers that my faith grows and I, too, become convinced and convicted. I find the truth, and the truth sets me free.

No doubt about it.

MAJOR DAVIES IS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, THQ

Salvationist 8 August 2020

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BIBLE STUDY

Who do you see?

Lieutenant Andrew Manley reflects on the Transfiguration

MATTHEW 17:1–13

A

S a young person, I joined the Boy Scouts. The most enjoyable parts were outdoors; whether it was camping or hiking or just fun games, this seemed to be where I was happiest. One of the most pleasurable activities was an ‘incident hike’. What started out as a normal walk became so much more interesting when we’d come across an incident, challenge or something unexpected.

At the start of Matthew 17, we read an account of the ultimate in ‘incident hikes’ – the transfiguration of Jesus on a mountain top.

QUESTION you ever been on a journey that didn’t turn out as expected or where some unexpected incident took place?

Reflect on this for a few moments.

It is unclear where this extraordinary event took place. Scholars suggest Mount Tabor, Mount Carmel or Mount Hermon. Wherever the location, three critical events occurred.

Matthew describes the Transfiguration as follows: ‘[Christ’s] face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light’ (v2).

This description, together with the observation that the disciples were overcome by awe when they heard a voice from the cloud and fell to the ground, might suggest that Matthew intends to describe Jesus as the new Moses. The entire scene reminds us of Moses meeting God on Mount Sinai: there is a cloud, a light and God’s voice.

O Have

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

by Major Howard Webber

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Salvationist 8 August 2020

QUESTIONS a moment to compare the Transfiguration account with Exodus

O Take

19:16–19. How might Jesus be seen as ‘the new Moses’?

O How might you have felt and reacted had you been on the Mount of Transfiguration?

Luke’s account of the Transfiguration says that Moses and Elijah appeared and discussed with Jesus his exodos (see Luke 9:31). The Greek word means ‘departure’. As the exodus from Egypt was God’s great act of deliverance in the Old Testament, so Jesus’ exodus from this world – his death, resurrection and ascension – would be God’s great act of deliverance in the New Testament. Jesus would accomplish a new and greater exodus.

The appearance of Moses and Elijah – representatives of the Law and the Prophets – confirms that Jesus was fulfilling Old Testament messianic prophecies.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves.

There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.

(Matthew 17:1 and 2)

Lord, I come to your awesome presence,/ From the shadows into your radiance;/ By the blood I may enter your brightness,/ Search me, try me, consume all my darkness./ Shine on me, shine on me.

(SASB 261)

‘The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace.’

(Numbers 6:24–26)

Prayer Dear Father, I want to experience the glory and radiance shining forth from your face. I want those I meet to see in me the evidence that I have been with you.

QUESTION O What does this idea of ‘exodus’ mean to you?

Peter remarks that he is enjoying being with Jesus at this special moment.

Wanting to mark the event, he suggests building three shelters – one each for Jesus, Moses and Elijah. A voice then comes from Heaven saying: ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!’ (v5).

These words rebuke Peter for placing Jesus on the same level as Moses and Elijah. To make three shelters would be to lose sight of who, and how special, Jesus is.

Earlier, at Caesarea Philippi, Peter had said to Jesus: ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God’ (Matthew 16:16).

Had Peter forgotten so quickly?

Terrified at hearing the heavenly voice, the three disciples fall, face down, to the

ground. Jesus responds by touching them and telling them to get up and not to be afraid.

What happens next? Matthew records: ‘When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus’ (v8).

QUESTION a moment to reflect. Are there times when you have needed to be corrected or rebuked in your thoughts, words or actions? Perhaps you haven’t always placed Jesus front and centre in your life. Pray and let Jesus touch your life anew.

O Take

Peter later recounts this momentous event in his second letter: ‘For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty.

For he received honour and glory from

God the Father when that voice was conveyed to him by the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, my Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” We ourselves heard this voice come from Heaven, while we were with him on the holy mountain’ (2 Peter 1:16–18 New Revised Standard Version).

Christ’s transfiguration is the precursor of every believer’s transfiguration. When he returns in his glory, all believers will be transfigured and will receive a glorious, imperishable ‘spiritual body’ (1 Corinthians 15:44).

Take time, also, to read Colossians 3:4 and Philippians 3:20 and 21. Reflect on what these words mean to you.

Who do you see? Jesus.

LIEUTENANT MANLEY IS CORPS OFFICER, KIRKCALDY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Jesus, lead me up the mountain,/ Where the whitest robes are seen,/ Where the saints can see the fountain,/ Where we may be pure and clean./ Lead me higher up the mountain,/ Give me fellowship with thee;/ In the light I see the fountain,/ And the blood now cleanses me.

(SASB 539)

When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the covenant law in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.

(Exodus 34:29)

I want that adorning divine/ Thou only, my God, canst bestow;/ I want in those garments to shine/ Which mark out thy household below.

(SASB 590)

We were eyewitnesses of his majesty. He received honour and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’ We ourselves heard this voice that came from Heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.

(2 Peter 1:16–18)

Salvationist 8 August 2020

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FROM THE

ARCHIVE

Uniform behaviour Commissioner Keith Banks suggests common sense for dress sense

H

OW many people will read this article? The subject is not new and the writer is a retired officer. Maybe not bursting with promise! However, I am desperate to say something…

I recently attended the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh where I had been invited to a royal garden party with my daughter as my guest. We met other Salvationist friends and Army employees there, so the Army was well represented.

The pros and cons of uniform are often debated and I have been party to the debate for years, switching sides repeatedly. If ever I needed proof of its

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Salvationist 8 August 2020

value, though, I got it on garden party day.

‘Hello,’ said one of the Queen’s Body Guard for Scotland, of the Royal Company of Archers. ‘So good to see you in your uniform. I’ve just met two of your people who surprisingly are in civvies.’ He had been speaking to two non-Salvationist employees, so they couldn’t be expected to be in uniform, but he had no way of knowing that. What emerged from our conversation was that he clearly linked The Salvation Army with uniform.

‘Pleased to meet you,’ said one of the Queen’s chaplains in an impressive bright red neck-to-toe cassock. ‘Your uniform reminds me that the world cannot manage without Salvationists’ (slightly overstated maybe!). ‘You are living proof that it is possible to be a Christian without the sacraments and without bishops – but don’t tell my bishop I said that!’

‘Great to see the Army,’ said the Lord Provost of Edinburgh.

He spoke warmly of the Army and of his personal contacts with Salvationists.

‘You look dapper in your uniforms. Just what we need,’ said a member of the official video team when he caught sight of four of us walking together and invited us to contribute to the recording.

‘For the cause,’ said a man as he rushed off the train we had boarded for the journey home. He put £25 on the table in front of me as we stopped at his station, and then disappeared. What trust! I’ll pass the money to Govan Corps for the drop-in soup kitchen – a new venture that has attracted many to the corps, some of whom come to meetings and have made decisions for Christ.

‘The Salvation Army is a church, right?’ asked the owner of a fish and chip shop. On the way home by car from the station my daughter and I felt hungry – the cucumber sandwiches and lemon tarts now needed to be followed by something more substantial!

We called into the chip shop, where the proprietor told me he is a believer and is looking for a welcoming church – high or low, he said, as long as it welcomed him! I said I would find out and let him know. There is a corps nearby so I have suggested to the officers they might like to indulge in some chips and chat sometime soon.

Uniform can be a controversial issue.

Quite possibly, we haven’t helped ourselves by inventing endless versions of it. Maybe we also have a tendency to wear it in the wrong places – when we sit in the hall but not when we walk in the mall; and when it is not suitable – at in-house conferences. However, worn at the right time it is a powerful tool waiting to be exploited in a positive way for the Kingdom and the Army.

The incidents related are not concocted – they happened, just as I have told them, all in one day. I learnt a lot from them.

I sometimes hear Salvationists complain about the Army’s lack of visibility these days, our absence from TV screens and the shortage of positive coverage in the media.

We don’t like not being noticed because we know in our hearts the Army has a great story to tell.

So, if we really care about what people think, maybe we should deliberately set out to make ourselves visible by using the tools we already have – uniform being one of them.

At the right time and in the right place our uniform, smartly worn, is a gift to the cause for visibility. It is a mark of identification that we could and should use more effectively.

Commissioner Banks lives in retirement in Inverkip This article was first published in the 6 August 2011 Salvationist

FEATURE I Fundraising

RAISING FUNDS WITH PEDAL POWER Community and Events Fundraising Manager Angela Carlucci (THQ) invites you to take part in My RideLondon charities. The 2020 Prudential RideLondon will see the event take a virtual form as My RideLondon. Anyone can sign up for one of four challenges: 19 miles, 46 miles, 100 miles or ‘Freecycle’ for cyclists and riders of other non-motorised wheels – from skateboards and trikes to even rollerskates – who want to set their own distance of 1km or more.

The virtual event will take place on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August via an app. It is free to enter for all ages, with money raised for The Salvation Army going towards our vital work across the territory.

Fundraisers such as James Hook from Faringdon, Oxfordshire (pictured left), have adapted to the fundraising challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic.

James took on a virtual bike challenge last month from the comfort of his own home, cycling the ascent and descent equivalent of Mount Everest on an indoor smart trainer. He cumulatively cycled the elevation of 8,848 metres and raised an outstanding £1,207 for The Salvation Army.

Prudential My RideLondon is free to enter and open to all ages and abilities, so set your wheels in motion and complete your challenge next weekend. You can encourage your family and friends to take part too!

O Register

for Prudential My RideLondon at myridelondon.co.uk or for more information get in touch with the Community and Events Fundraising team at challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk

T

HE first ever virtual edition of Prudential RideLondon – the world’s biggest one-day cycling fundraising event – will take place this month to celebrate cycling and raise funds to help UK charities.

So what are you waiting for? Do something amazing and join #TeamSallyArmy in this exciting virtual event! We are looking for people to use pedal power to raise vital funds for The Salvation Army as RideLondon opens.

Over the past seven years RideLondon has inspired hundreds of thousands of people to take up cycling or cycle more often and has raised more than £77 million for thousands of Salvationist 8 August 2020

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A LETTER FROM THE CHIEF SECRETARY Issued on 31 July

Coronavirus impact update and debt support services are now available online. We are hearing so many encouraging testimonies about people deepening their relationship with Jesus during these days. Corps and centres have also been working tirelessly to provide pastoral care, meals, food parcels and other essential supplies to people who have needed our help.

Many staff are working from home. We acknowledge how difficult this can be for people who are balancing child care and other responsibilities with work commitments as well as those feeling very isolated during this time. Thank you everyone for all your hard work, tenacity, compassion and willingness to go the extra mile.

G

reetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. More than three months have passed since I wrote to you (Salvationist 25 April) about the impact of the coronavirus on our territory. Those were very dark times when more than 3,500 people were testing positive for the virus every day in the UK, intensive care units were full and more than a thousand coronavirusrelated deaths were reported every day across the territory.

As I explained in my April letter, I chair the Territorial Operations Board (TOB).

The TOB has agreed it is timely to provide an update on the impact of the coronavirus on The Salvation Army in our territory.

A TIME TO GIVE THANKS While the infection rate is dropping in most places we need to remain vigilant and take warnings of a resurgence of the virus very seriously. We must continue to heed government guidance and work hard to make safety our priority.

We are pleased to report that The Salvation Army has responded superbly throughout the lockdown. Our Lifehouses, older people’s residences and safe houses for survivors of modern slavery remained open throughout the pandemic and provided safe, secure places for thousands of vulnerable people. I thank everyone who has worked so hard to make this possible.

We have seen massive growth in online ministry and mission. Salvation Army worship as well as employment 20

Salvationist 8 August 2020

FINANCES In my April letter, I explained the financial challenges facing the territory. I am pleased to report that we have also made good progress in this respect. We must, however, continue to consider the impact the lockdown has had, and the gradual easing of restrictions continues to have, upon our temporal resources.

First, we thank all of you who have made personal financial sacrifices to support The Salvation Army. We also recognise the sacrifice made by employees who have been furloughed and officers and employees who were in a position to be able to join them by donating a significant amount of their allowance or salary back to the Army.

Thank you.

Army feeds NHS staff in South East

The general public has also responded very generously to our requests for donations. It has been particularly encouraging to see corps fundraising activities bring in more than £800,000 for Covid-related work. In addition to this, the THQ fundraising team has raised more than £3.7 million. It is affirming to know that so many people love The Salvation Army and want to help us to help others.

Unsurprisingly, expenditure in our Lifehouses, older people’s residences and safe houses has increased significantly. For example, we are spending more than £20,000 per week on personal protective equipment.

Despite the good news of increased fundraising, the recovery of our investment funds and lower than expected expenditure, we will need to continue using our financial resources carefully in these uncertain days.

We cannot be complacent and assume life will return to what it was before the pandemic. The coronavirus will be a risk for the foreseeable future and the economic forecasts are gloomy. People are going to need our help. There will be many opportunities to present the good news of Jesus in our words, actions and attitudes. Therefore, every part of The Salvation Army needs to examine itself carefully to ensure we maximise our income and review all expenditure.

Work is continuing on reducing costs, particularly at THQ. As already reported, the building of the new THQ at Denmark Hill has been paused and a full review of

Port Glasgow continues to serve those in need

Winchester corps folk and volunteers deliver hot meals

Birmingham Citadel Band joins online Pentecost meeting

Army papers and food parcels from Gainsborough all possible options is under way. We have a great opportunity to adjust quickly to the ‘new normal’, which will demonstrate once again that The Salvation Army is an agile, flexible and innovative part of the Christian Church.

However, we will face hard choices and we need to work together as we navigate stormy seas.

MOVING FORWARD As we continue to move forward, we need carefully to monitor our income and expenditure. While the financial results for the first quarter for the year ending 2020–2021 have been more favourable than we anticipated, the full impact of the lockdown is just beginning to be realised. In the next three months we will begin to see the impact of our charity shops not returning to full strength. Our financial obligations will continue to take hold as rent holidays come to an end. The reality of lost revenues from external renters in our corps buildings will begin to be noticed. Increased costs will start to show as we begin to come to the end of government schemes such as the furlough initiative.

Importantly, it must be recognised that

we are unable to ascertain at this point what the coronavirus impact will be upon our ability to raise funds in the important weeks when carolling will be undertaken.

Currently, we are anticipating raising £1,606,754 but, of course, this could be at risk. We know that our literature sales, forecasted to be in the range of £1,586,670, have been severely hindered.

The THQ Christmas fundraising appeal result, critically important to our annual income generation, remains unknown to us. Only as we progress through the balance of this current fiscal period will we truly understand the impact of the coronavirus upon our financial resources.

The TOB recommended to The Salvation Army’s trustees (SATCO) a ‘just-in-case’ plan to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus for this fiscal year only should the worst-case implications be realised. Properties no longer required, namely surplus houses, could be liquidated. Investment earnings could be drawn down to replenish our general reserves and, if necessary, the drawing down on a loan already established with Reliance Bank could be initiated. These are contingencies and only to be triggered if necessary, save that some excess houses have

been identified to sell at this time.

SATCO has endorsed this plan. We will leverage these resources only if necessary to sustain and advance mission.

We sense God is encouraging us to be confident but not complacent. The Salvation Army across the territory is well placed to meet challenges. We have many fine people, at all levels of the Army, who are seeing new opportunities and are determined to move forward. Let’s encourage each other and be optimists for, as Paul wrote to the church at Philippi, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13 New King James Version).

If you have questions or comments, please write to me at THQ or email chief.secretary@salvationarmy.org.uk and I or the appropriate person will respond to you.

May God continue to bless and guide us.

Yours faithfully LEE GRAVES COLONEL CHIEF SECRETARY Salvationist 8 August 2020

21

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

TRIBUTES

MARRIAGES O SL Lee Fisher to Asst YP Bandleader Louise Forrester at Droitwich Spa by Majors Jennifer and Stephen Forman

MAJOR DAVID JOHNSTON DAVID was born in 1940, the son of officer parents. He entered the International Training College in 1963 as a member of the Proclaimers of the Faith Session. After Commissioning in 1965 David served in various corps appointments, including Peel with Ramsey and Liverpool Edge Hill before having to step back from officership for a time because of ill health. In 1998 he was appointed to Bradford Lawley House as officer in charge and to Edward Alsop Court as deputy manager. Corps appointments followed at Leith and Winsford.

In 2007 David retired to Motherwell Corps, and four years later married Lynn. He became corps sergeant-major in 2015, was a member of the band, and catered for many memorable corps events with Lynn.

David was promoted to Glory on 26 May. He is sadly missed by Lynn, his sister Jean and the corps family at Motherwell. – JR

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Eddie and Muriel McMillan, Cumbernauld (13 August) O Fred and Mavis Mayers (20 August) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Lieut-Colonel Gustave Allemand (80 on 18 August) O Commissioner Mrs Dora Grinsted (90 on 20 August) O Major Mervin Baker (80 on 22 August) PROMOTED TO GLORY Bandswoman/Songster Joy Anderson, Salisbury O Doreen Thomas, Southsea O Gwen Bowyer, Canterbury on 13 July O Major Sarah Pengelly from Torcare nursing home on 24 July O Peggy Keats, Ipswich Citadel on 25 July O

BEREAVED O Captain Grace Gordon of her sister and brother O David and Christine Anderson, Salisbury, of their daughter Bandswoman/Songster Joy Anderson, Christopher Anderson and Karen Chadwick of their sister O Audrey Percy and Michael Keats, both Ipswich CitadeI, of their mother Peggy Keats O Major Jane Cowell, Yorkshire North with Tees, Martin Cowell and Ian Cowell of their mother Paula Cowell O Margaret Pursglove, Sutton, and Rosemary Aziz of their mother Gwen Bowyer

WHAT’S ON LET THERE BE PRAISE Birmingham Citadel Band and Songsters will be featured on Faith FM’s monthly Salvation Army music programme at 7.30 pm EST on 12 August (12.30 am UK time on 13 August).

O Listen live at kitchener.faithfm.org or catch up with previous broadcasts on citadelpromotions.co.uk 22

Salvationist 8 August 2020

OWEN DUFFY, ENNISKILLEN OWEN was a storyteller and Jesus was always the hero of each story.

He was born in Ireland and settled in Oldham, where he married Maureen and had two children, Keith and Julie.

Owen followed Julie to the Army, where she attended the Guides. He was gloriously saved and committed his life to telling others how Jesus saves, protects, heals and provides.

Owen and Maureen shared a ministry of hospitality and care. They lived in a multicultural area where they loved their neighbours and built strong relationships.

He felt called to return to Ireland and the family settled in Enniskillen, where they became active in the corps. Ever the evangelist, Owen recorded a CD of his testimony, giving copies away liberally.

During one of his many hospital stays towards the end of his life Owen was

overjoyed to lead a fellow patient to Christ. He is missed but corps folk celebrate that he is with the Saviour he adored. – JD DAVID MORTLOCK, READING CENTRAL DAVID was a lifelong Salvationist, born in 1931 in Burton-onTrent. He showed an early aptitude as a pianist, playing to a proficient level by the age of eight and gaining qualifications from Trinity and London Colleges of Music in his teens.

After leaving school David studied mechanical engineering, forging a career as a draughtsman and design engineer. He married Audrey Mellor at the corps in 1953, and they had two sons, Paul and Simon.

David’s work took the family to Sunderland, back to Burton-on-Trent and then to Reading, during which time he was bandmaster at Burton-on-Trent, Chalk Farm and Reading Central, and was a sought-after accompanist.

David was a much-respected band instructor at Tylney Hall in the 1970s.

He worked in the USA and India before retiring back to Reading in 1996, where he continued to be active in the corps band and songsters and as corps pianist. – PM Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

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Salvationist 8 August 2020

23

‘ 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…

NICOLA WALMSLEY Community Mission Facilitator, Barrow-in-Furness How did you first come into contact with the Army?

My great uncle and great aunt were Salvationists. When I was a child they would sing to me ‘Climb, Climb Up Sunshine Mountain’.

What made you want to work for the Army?

I had worked as an environmental health officer, a domiciliary support worker and, with my husband, planted a church and led it for 20 years. It was time for a change. My friend’s husband saw the community mission facilitator job advertised and they encouraged me to apply because the description suited my gifts and experience.

What is the most interesting thing about your role?

I get to share the love of Jesus openly at work, with young infants, elderly groups, shop customers, café visitors and volunteers – and, as my husband and I have the privilege of leading Sunday services from time to time, with our congregation. I get to help the people who are most in need in our society and see the Holy Spirit working in their lives, transforming them daily. … and the most frustrating?

We are often short of volunteers.

What do you do in your spare time?

Crafting – upcycling furniture, doing reupholstery, sewing, jewellery and wreath-making – and spending time with my four daughters and five grandchildren.

My Jesus, my Saviour, Lord, there is none like you.

All of my days I want to praise The wonders of your mighty love

(SASB 264)

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

One with family, staying in a remote country cottage near the sea.

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

Live one day at a time, love and forgive one another, laugh at yourself and be kind, honest and faithful.

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

Swimming.

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

Sunny days.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I have a knack for creating nice things without a pattern or a recipe.

Apart from English, what languages do you speak?

Afrikaans and some French and Zulu.

What are your favourite Bible verses?

‘Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen’ (Ephesians 3:20 and 21).

It reminds me that when things seem impossible, God can make a way.

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

Moses. I would love to ask him about his life. The stories he could tell!

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘My Jesus, My Saviour’ (SASB 264).

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

Colin, my husband and best friend.

’

What is your favourite food?

Rice pudding.

If you could invent a gadget, what would it be?

A time machine, to go back in time and encourage my brother to have a thorough check-up before his unexpected fatal heart attack at the start of lockdown.

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

Stay close to Jesus! As a child that was written in my Bible, which was given to me by my eldest brother and sister-in-law.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My wedding ring. It hasn’t come off since my wedding day and reminds me of my promise.

Something interesting people might want to know about you is…

I moved to South Africa as a child.

Water always attracted me, and I had three near-drowning incidents. I learnt to swim and spent many hours in my teens swimming in the warm Indian Ocean. In recent years I have swum the width of Coniston Water and back again.