Salvationist 8 August 2026

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SALVATIONIST LEAPS OF FAITH GROWING LEADERS

STANDING ALONGSIDE SURVIVORS HELPING-HAND APPEAL 2024

DFL YOUTH PAGES 8+9

Growing leaders WHAT are you called to do? We often think about calling and leadership by starting with that question. And there are so many opportunities and ways to offer your God-given talents in service of his mission where you are.

In this week’s issue of Salvationist, we consider growing leaders – a key focus area for the territory – and invite you to think about your own calling.

But calling isn’t primarily about doing; it’s about being. Before anything else – before we are adherents, soldiers, music leaders, spiritual leaders, whatever our role vocation is – we are called to be disciples, to respond to God’s personal call to ‘come, follow me’ (Matthew 4:19).

We are called to seek God’s design for our lives, to live out our faith in our individual contexts.

As Christians, then, being a leader paradoxically involves following – finding our identity, belonging and purpose in God. When we take that leap of faith – to answer God’s call, to be disciples of Jesus, to grow in our relationship with him – in a way we all become leaders. Because whatever we do, inside or outside The Salvation Army, we can all lead others to God. And, along the way, we can help grow other leaders in turn. Who are you called to be? Who are you leading others towards? Who are you helping to grow?

IVAN RADFORD Editor

EXPLORE MORE ONLINE

Visit salvationist.org.uk/ recommended-content Explore calling and vocation

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE Sharing the good news Evangelism in the everyday

To subscribe, speak to your corps leader or visit sps-shop.com 2

Salvationist 8 August 2026

5 THE GIRL FROM MONTEGO BAY

8+9 DESIGN FOR LIFE YOUTH

10-12 GROWING LEADERS

12 REFLECTING GOD’S KINGDOM

6+7 BIBLE STUDY

SALVATIONIST Issue No 2075

EDITOR Ivan Radford

FOUNDERS Catherine and William Booth

ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope

INTERNATIONAL LEADERS General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden

TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Andrew Stone

PROOFREADER Chris Horne CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101 © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

ISSN 2516-5909.

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.

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

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

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TRENDING

An end to rough sleeping?

Jez Bushnell considers Andy Burnham’s first major promise as prime minister

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IKE many of you, I watched the new prime minister’s first speech on the steps of Downing Street with interest. As someone working for The Salvation Army to campaign against homelessness, there was one key line from Andy Burnham that I couldn’t ignore: ‘I will soon go through that door behind me and issue my first instruction: to end rough sleeping in our country.’

Quite a statement.

Rough sleeping absolutely should be a priority – it is currently at record high levels in England, and anyone from the Army’s Homelessness Services will tell you about the horrific impact that sleeping rough can have on someone’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Reflect and respond Join our campaign to end homelessness for good. Write to your local elected politician at tsa.link/homelessness-campaign.

Pray for politicians and ‘all those in authority’ (1 Timothy 2:2) for wisdom and compassion in their decisions.

At The Salvation Army, we believe everyone is made in the image of God (see Genesis 1:26) and therefore deserves to be treated with dignity. A place to rest your head is surely part of that dignity?

Behind the prime minister’s statement are some welcome commitments around funding and housing. The government has provided an additional £340 million to secure 1,200 homes and intensive support for at least 3,000 people. And this is just the first stage of a wider fiveyear programme.

These are promising numbers and certainly give the impression that this commitment is not just about saying the right words but about backing them up with hard evidence.

But questions do remain.

Money and housing alone will not deliver the end to rough sleeping that we all desire. There are still legislative barriers that prevent many rough sleepers from getting vital emergency accommodation – read our report about priority need at tsa.link/priority-need for more details.

Rough sleeping also represents just one of many forms of homelessness.

Will the prime minister be committing to ending the other types of homelessness in society?

And then there’s the fundamental truth that, just because a prime minister commits to doing something, that doesn’t necessarily mean it will happen.

We have heard politicians promise to end rough sleeping before, to no avail.

After all, commitment and delivery are two very different things.

This is why it is so important that we grasp this opportunity and make this time different.

Rough sleeping and homelessness are not inevitable. Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main have written a letter to the new prime minister from The Salvation Army to emphasise this.

We’re calling for access to support when it’s needed, and vital wrap-around support services to break the cycle of homelessness. Together we can fight to deliver lasting change to improve the lives of some of the most marginalised and vulnerable people in our society. To treat them with dignity, including a place to rest their heads.

JEZ BUSHNELL Policy Officer Public Affairs Unit

Salvationist 8 August 2026

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TESTIMONY

seconds with...

Corps SergeantMajor Paul Dale Stoke-on-Trent

‘Before anything else, we are called to be disciples’ Freya Baldock (Dunstable) shares how Growing Leaders gave her the space to surrender more fully to God’s calling

W Who are you and what do you do?

Paul Dale. I am retired after being a primary academy business and operations manager.

How did you first get involved in the Army?

My sisters took me to Sunday school when I was four. They had been invited by our neighbour.

What’s your favourite hymn?

I have so many, but must choose ‘In the Secret of Thy Presence’ (SASB 766), with the Eric Ball music.

What’s your favourite Bible verse or passage?

Psalm 8.

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

Plain chocolate digestives.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Treasure every moment with your family and friends, and treat each day as a special gift.

Give your testimony or life story using only one word.

Love.

• Is God calling you to a local officer role? Speak to your corps leader about how you might be able to use your gifts or read more at salvationist.org.uk/localofficership-and-service.

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Salvationist 8 August 2026

HEN I began the Growing Leaders course in my division, I expected to learn about leadership. What I didn’t expect was that God would use the course to transform me, not just into a better leader, but into a more faithful disciple.

One truth has echoed throughout the journey: before anything else, we are called to be disciples. Leadership is not about status, influence or recognition; it is about faithfully following Christ. Early in the course, we were asked a challenging question: are we building the Kingdom of God or the kingdom of self? That question has prompted me to examine my motives and remember that true leadership begins with surrender.

The words ‘let God transform you’ became a constant encouragement. I have become increasingly aware that God is gently revealing areas of my life that need to be surrendered – self-doubt, fear of other people’s opinions and the temptation to seek approval rather than obedience. Like the father in Jesus’ parable, God continually welcomes us with grace, inviting us to come to him just as we are. Repeatedly, I have found myself running back to the Father, discovering

that his mercy is greater than my fears and his love is where I truly belong.

Romans 12:2 has become especially meaningful: ‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’ Those words remind me that lasting leadership begins with inward transformation through Christ.

Another lesson that has deeply impacted me is learning to make a response rather than simply have a reaction. Leadership inevitably brings challenges, but taking time to pray, listen and respond with wisdom reflects the character of Christ far more than reacting in the heat of the moment.

The course has also reminded me that leadership is a marathon, not a sprint. God is never rushed, and his work in us unfolds over a lifetime. That perspective has helped me focus less on immediate results and more on becoming the person he is calling me to be.

One of the greatest blessings has been seeing God’s unique calling on the lives of others while also gaining confidence in the calling he has placed on mine. Hearing different stories has reminded me that his Kingdom is built through ordinary people who simply choose to say yes to him.

Above all, I am grateful that Growing Leaders gave me the space to surrender more fully to God’s calling. My prayer is that I will keep running to the Father, allowing him to shape my heart, leaving behind anything that holds me back, and becoming the disciple and leader he has created me to be.

Have you got a testimony to share?

We’d love to hear what you are thankful to God for!

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

REVIEWS

Inspiring and challenging Territorial Intercultural Mission Officer Major Marjory Parrott (Ripley) reviews The Girl from Montego Bay: The Autobiography of Britain’s First Black Woman Bishop by Rose Hudson-Wilkin

“

As a student, Rose had a poster that reminded her: ‘Do not go where the path leads.

Instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail.’

”

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IKE the author, I am a 60-something minister, and a woman of colour, which increased my interest in this book, especially as I also share Caribbean genes.

Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin’s story starts in Montego Bay, Jamaica. She writes that life was hard, with an absentee father, and she and her sister being caregivers for their younger siblings.

Despite this inauspicious start, Rose sensed God’s call to the ministry as a young teenager. Although church leadership was not an option for women, Rose promised God that, when it was, she would obey.

Towards the end of her schooling, Rose realised that her aunt could no longer fund her education, so she found employment as a pre-trained teacher. God also placed in her life the adults who became her ‘adopted’ parents, providing her with much-needed love and guidance.

Soon after, Rose trained with the Church Army, and met her future husband, Ken. After marriage, and time in Jamaica, the couple returned to England to pursue Ken’s path to ordination

and Rose’s journey as a deacon. This meant trusting that God would clear the way for future ordination.

It is good that Rose’s sense of calling was strong, because the journey had its difficulties. There was the parochial church council that resigned en masse because they didn’t want a woman curate, the family who refused to let her conduct the funeral of parishioners, and, in later years, the church leaders who would have preferred her white husband as priest.

Rose had to face challenges, not just because of being a woman, but also being black and not English. Yet Rose refused to be defeated, or to justify herself. Instead, she focused on living the gospel, and loving people inside and outside the church.

At one point in the book, Rose writes about asking a church warden if they would consider her for a vacancy, if they had one. The warden replied that, as they had no black people in the church, there would be no need. She goes on to write: ‘If we fail to be honest about the fact that, left to our own devices, we simply choose the people who look like us and speak like us, nothing will ever change. But the tragedy of not pushing beyond our comfort zones is that our gloriously diverse family under God never realises its full potential.’

The later chapters cover her time as Queen Elizabeth II’s chaplain and as the first woman chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, ending with her appointment as the Bishop of Dover.

As a student, Rose had a poster that reminded her: ‘Do not go where the path leads. Instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail.’ Her commitment to do that enabled her to fulfil these varied roles and to make a difference in both joyous and tragic circumstances.

Rose has not allowed her background or her identity to affect her obedience to God. Indeed, she has allowed God to use all that makes her who she is. This commitment is inspiring and challenging. For us all, whoever we are, whatever we bring, the calling to follow God remains, whatever our sphere of influence.

• The Girl from Montego Bay: The Autobiography of Britain’s First Black Woman Bishop is published by SPCK Publishing.

Salvationist 8 August 2026

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BIBLE STUDY

Sing for joy to the Captain Hannah Webb calls us to heartfelt worship PSALM 95

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IRST and foremost, this psalm is about worship – the importance of worshipping God, how we should worship and, crucially, why we should worship him.

PAUSE AND REFLECT What does worship mean in an increasingly secular society?

Some people claim they have only been into a place of worship for weddings, baptisms, funerals or maybe Christmas. However, I would argue this view of worship is too narrow. Worship lives in our DNA. Football crowds and concertgoers are evidence of this. You only need to glance at the coverage of the mania surrounding the Beatles and Elvis Presley in the 50s, 60s and 70s or, more currently, Harry Styles, Taylor Swift and [insert your favourite K-pop band here]. Devoted worship is intrinsic to human life.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Who or what do you see people worshipping?

How do you see them worshipping?

Psalm 95 begins with a call for the listener to join in the psalmist’s praise of the Most High, the One exclusively worthy of our praise. This is an exuberant, excited and exciting invitation for us to lend our voices to an ancient chorus, offered to the Lord as a joyful new tidal wave of worship. It is presented as an invitation but underneath lies the reality that to praise God is the only appropriate 6

Salvationist 8 August 2026

response for all that he has done for us.

Many scholars now believe that this psalm was written to a generation who were about to return from exile in Babylon, or who had very recently returned. The psalmist was encouraging people to also return to their proper worship of Yahweh. They had been in Babylon for generations, immersed in a culture where people worshipped multiple deities. The writer was reminding them of the one true God, who was bringing them back from exile, the God who was on the throne of Heaven, and who was exclusively worthy of their praise.

While we may not have been exiled, there can be times in our lives when we feel like our faith is being shaken.

It is important to remind ourselves, and others, of who our God is, and to encourage each other to worship him.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Who or what acts as a reminder to you of who God is and draws you back into worship?

How could you increase your boldness in inviting others to worship God? Throughout the psalm, the writer indicates that expressions of worship can be diverse. The writer gives examples of worshipful behaviours towards God: singing and shouting (see v1), making music (see v2), bowing down and kneeling (see v6). These are varied; some are loud, some are quiet. They require different postures – standing, kneeling and prostrating. Some involve movement, some don’t. This shows that there are many ways of offering

our worship to God, all of which – when offered in a spirit of authenticity and joy – give him glory.

Joy is a key component of Godhonouring worship (see v1). Whatever our worship expression, we must offer our heartfelt praise with an attitude of joy.

PAUSE AND REFLECT What is your preferred or most natural way of coming before the Lord in worship?

How could you contribute to the joyful attitude of your worship setting?

The heartbeat of Psalm 95 is its pendulum swing between the call to worship God and the reasons we have for worshipping him, which can be summarised in the simple, profound fact of God’s identity and what he has done for us.

The writer declares God’s ownership of the heights and the depths of the Earth (see v4), as well as the sea and the dry land (see v5). These contrasts speak of God’s lordship over all creation because ‘he made it’ (v5). He is worthy of our worship because he is the Creator.

The description of God as ‘the Rock of our salvation’ (v1) would have been taken as a reference to a military fortress. God is worthy of our worship because he is our protector.

In verse 7, the psalmist highlights God’s covenant character and his relationship towards us. God was and is the shepherd of the people of Israel, and he is our Good Shepherd today (see John 10:1–21).

The psalm then takes a bit of an unexpected turn, with the writer issuing

To read the full, unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.

Lord! a powerful challenge to the original audience: do not harden your hearts to God like your ancestors did (see vv8 and 9). Their ancestors’ generations had tested, angered and failed to listen to God in the desert (see Exodus 17:1–7). Indeed, their inability to worship God properly deprived some of them of the right to enter God’s Promised Land at all.

We, too, are challenged to listen to and trust God and not repeat the mistakes of previous generations. Our experiences of having to rethink communal worship during the Covid-19 pandemic and then returning to our congregations might give us something of an insight into what it means to return to and re-establish worship.

SATURDAY 8 AUGUST: CARING FOR CREATION Read Psalm 146:5 and 6. Care for creation has become a focus for many churches and denominations. Some theologies suggest the Earth is scheduled for destruction, so why worry about caring for it. Others see spiritual things as being more important than physical things. Have we in The Salvation Army been given something of a head start? We are formed in a tradition where the physical matters. Write a couple of lines in the style of William Booth’s reported ‘I’ll Fight’ speech expressing the same determination about fighting for the planet. Read the speech at salvationist.ca/articles/a-new-rallying-cry.

SUNDAY 9 AUGUST: SABBATH PRAYER Lord, I welcome your completing; finish in me the work you’ve been doing this week. I welcome your rest; help me lay down my burdens. I welcome your blessing; help me make room for treasures only given in stillness. I welcome your sanctifying; re-create me for your glory.

MONDAY 10 AUGUST: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS Look at the week ahead. Picture things you’ll be doing and people you’ll be seeing.

Think about what it might mean to proclaim the good news in that situation. Then give that thought back to God as a prayer.

TUESDAY 11 AUGUST: SERVING AND CARING Ask God to speak to you on what it means to serve and care. Ask for wisdom and discernment to see where people need support and ask God to equip you with strength and resources. Consider God’s passionate love for you.

PAUSE AND REFLECT In what ways did the Covid-19 pandemic change the way you or your congregation worship?

Is God telling you to let go of anything in order to ‘sing a new song’ and refresh your worship?

We must ensure that we are worshipping joyfully in faith and in truth and establishing good patterns for the future.

We are invited to be God’s co-workers in re-establishing his intended covenant relationship with his creation and the sheep of his pasture. We are called to worship God – our Creator and Good Shepherd.

So, will you come and sing a new song for joy to the Lord?

CAPTAIN HANNAH WEBB Corps Leader Dartford

WEDNESDAY 12 AUGUST: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION Read Isaiah 58:6. There’s an adage about the futility of rescuing people from a river if you don’t work out why they’re falling in. Find the root of the problem and you can do far more good. How might the Army be even more of a positive force for social cohesion? What might the Army do locally, where you are, to disrupt systems that cause injustice in the first place?

THURSDAY 13 AUGUST: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY Today, the worldwide Salvation Army is praying for the Sweden and Latvia Territory, famous for its musical heritage. Hold them before God as you listen to these songs from VasaGospel: ‘Great I Am’ at youtu.be/FbGdRyDUfiE and ‘Brighter Day’ at youtu.be/8molr1UGOwU. FRIDAY 14 AUGUST: GROWING IN FAITH In John 4:13 and 14, Jesus describes living water; a wonderful promise of refreshment, depth, movement and growth. As soon as seeds absorb water, their stored energy has the potential to create an explosive whirlwind of growth. Take time to marvel at the wonders of God’s Spirit, which brings us life in all its fullness.

Ask God to help you absorb his living water and release new growth.

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.

Salvationist Day Month 2026

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INTERVIEW

Identity, belonging and purpose Editorial Assistant Major Lynne Shaw finds out about DFL Youth

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ESIGN for Life (DFL) is a weekend retreat that helps people discover God’s design for their lives. Earlier this year – and following the launch of DFL for Children last year – a pilot of DFL Youth expanded the course in a format geared towards young people’s developing identities, sense of belonging and unique purpose.

Captain Berri McKenna (Liverpool Walton), who was territorial candidates officer at the time, introduces the new version of the weekend:

How did you develop the course?

We worked in partnership with the Children and Youth team, which was brilliant because they’re experts in their field. We spent time working through the distinctives of Design for Life and DFL for Children and what we wanted to keep hold of.

We want DFL Youth to be transferable to different areas of the territory, but tested it in London, based at William Booth College.

Who is it for?

The course isn’t necessarily for new Christians. It probably wouldn’t be for your young people who come to youth group on a Friday. It’s designed for those who are intentionally wanting to push deeper with their discipleship and figure out what God is saying to them in this season.

There are three themes, which the Children and Youth team use in other 8

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programmes, such as Terrain: identity, belonging and purpose. We also took the questions from DFL, which tie in with those themes: Who am I? Where do I fit? What am I here for?

We framed that around the three characters we’ve used in DFL: Jesus’ mother, Mary; David, before he became king; and Saul, who became Paul after his experience on the road to Damascus. Through these characters we learn we’re so much more than one story or thing we’re known for – that there is a journey we go on, and that things can be flipped to use for the Kingdom.

What is different about DFL Youth?

We use the story of Miles Morales, the main Spider-Man from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. For instance, the scene where Miles is walking down a school corridor and anxiously wondering: ‘Why are my thoughts so loud?’

That’s the ‘who am I?’ part.

Another clip has Miles asking: ‘When will I know I’m ready?’ The answer he receives is: ‘You won’t. It’s a leap of faith.’ One of the things we did to explore that was to hire an inflatable base jump and do a leap of faith.

We also explored spiritual gifts and where we fit. We went around London doing different tasks, like litter picking and praying around social justice. They also had to draw pictures of people without looking down at the paper,

which helped them consider what their eyes are focused on.

Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Captain Jonny Whitmore designed a custom escape room around spiritual gifts. And we went out stargazing, with the help of Sports Mission Specialist Rob Moye, from the top of Territorial Headquarters, which was just amazing. We also had an unplanned praise party with the help of acoustic guitars – the weekend was full of those kinds of spontaneous moments where God took over.

At the end of the weekend, rather than get the young people to say what they’d seen in each other, we surprised them with letters from either corps leaders or somebody close to them. The letters encouraged and affirmed them, helping them see themselves through someone who really knows them.

Then we challenged them to write a letter to themselves. We gathered the letters in and sent them about a month later, so that the young people could be reminded of what they’d experienced during the weekend and what they sensed God was saying to them.

We created space for God to move by not heavily timetabling the weekend, and God did move. I think the most precious moments were the ones we didn’t plan.

• To find out more about Design for Life, DFL for Children and DFL Youth, email vocation@salvationarmy.org.uk.

DFL Youth was an experience I’ve never had before. It had a mix of really good worship, teaching and good fun; it was full of laughter and friend-making. It was really good that people who perhaps didn’t know each other were able to connect. There were lots of different experiences that could help different people, as not everyone learns in the same way! A lot of the things that happened might not have been explainable in the moment but I’m sure that it will be explained in God’s timing!

Will

DFL Youth was an amazing experience! I really enjoyed getting to know people I already knew more, as well as new people! It involved lots of fun and some great worship and teaching that definitely has encouraged my faith! Overall, it was great to spend the weekend with people who share in a passion for God and encouraging leaders who strive for the best for us!

I would definitely recommend this experience!

Demelza

DFL Youth was such a special experience, as we got the opportunity to explore who we actually are and what our individual purposes are. It was also very special because we got to worship in a smaller group making more personal connections with one another, making a trusting, loving little community. Overall, it was such a great weekend as we all got to share our love for God through close worship.

Anon

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INTERVIEW

Growing leaders Territorial Candidates Director Major Jonny Smith, Divisional Leader Major Fiona Broom (South East Division) and Captain Amy-Jo Battersby (Parkhead and Dennistoun) have an informal discussion about raising up leaders What does growing leaders look like for you?

Jonny For me, it’s starting with discipleship. The deeper you go within discipleship and your relationship with Jesus, the more you will come to recognise the Godly leadership opportunities that are presented before you, to step into.

Fiona I think it’s also about releasing people into their God-given calling and helping them find it, because sometimes people don’t see it until somebody invests in them and sees it in them. But as Jonny says, discipleship is essential.

Amy-Jo For me, it looks like taking risks.

We need good leaders, and we have had good leaders. But when you’ve got a faithful group of people who have done things for a very long time, we have to ask: who else could come alongside them and learn from them and take that forward? It’s great that somebody can be, for example, a corps treasurer for 40 years, but has anyone else missed an opportunity to do the role during that time? How can we enable that?

Sometimes that looks like taking a risk, giving people opportunities to take on roles so that we can develop them and disciple them.

Fiona Yes, that’s an important question we ask when we do annual reviews with corps leadership teams: where’s your succession planning? Who are you developing? Who are you coming alongside to bring into leadership positions?

Amy-Jo I once told my corps: ‘If I can leave here and you don’t notice that I’ve gone, I’ll have done my job really well!’

If I can leave a corps and it has all the leaders it needs that it still thrives, then I think I’ve done a really good job as a leader, enabling leaders to lead others.

How do local officer roles play a part in growing leaders?

Amy-Jo For me, local leadership is becoming popular. But if it feels overwhelming for someone to take on 10

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a momentous role, I think letting them have small opportunities will help us get to the place where we can give them more responsibilities later down the line. We just need to get into the habit of appointing people and giving them responsibility.

Fiona In our division, one way of doing this is a couple of our corps are considering appointing more than one assistant corps sergeant-major, because none of them is comfortable doing the whole role by themselves, but three of them together could do it. They can take on leadership that suits them and it develops them.

Jonny From a Candidates Unit perspective, you notice the difference between people who have been in local leadership positions and people who have not, as they have greater insight into a wider perspective of corps leadership. I want to see corps and divisions continue to have conversations with people about spiritual leadership, continuing to take risks and giving people a chance in the local setting and wider. The more we see people enter into local leadership positions, who are used in leadership opportunities throughout the division, the more we will see people offering for wider spiritual leadership roles with The Salvation Army.

I think culture is perhaps a factor here.

When you put someone into a role who has a different cultural understanding to you – I’m not just talking about different backgrounds, but if you do things one way and someone else does something another way – that can be uncomfortable. But it’s about trying to learn from each other.

I always look to the way that Jesus picked his disciples. It wasn’t the elite who passed all the tests; it was people who had failed the test and had gone back to doing their father’s business. It’s about looking not necessarily at who can do a job, but who can’t, remembering that God doesn’t call the equipped, he equips the called.

Amy-Jo This is not a criticism, more of an observation, but I don’t think we’re always very good at equipping people with the practical skills to take on some responsibilities. Some of that we can do at a corps level, but some knowledge I think has been passed down from generation to generation.

How much of a role is that way because the last person did it that way? How much could it look different? People who come with a different culture, a different understanding, add so much value because they help us see and do

How does risk-taking link in with that?

Jonny I think there is a link between risk-taking and the amount of time people stay in leadership roles, because people often go with what they are used to, which could mean that it limits a risk-taking change. Then when someone steps down, we haven’t equipped someone else to do it. Within the Candidates Unit and with the committed people we have used over the years for our assessment conferences and Design for Life (DFL) team, we recognise that we have to give other people from around the territory opportunities to serve in these areas.

Major Jonny

Local officers Ministry opportunities within your corps might include pastoral care, youth and children’s ministries, older people’s ministries, music, creative arts, chaplaincy, community services, administration, finance and much more. Speak to your corps leader to explore how you could use your gifts to serve and support local mission.

things differently – they often just want assurance that they’re doing it right by having some kind of training package.

Fiona I think that training is one place where we’ve fallen down, although I think it’s being addressed now – up until recently, a lot of learning and development courses through William Booth College weren’t available to local officers, but now can be.

Amy-Jo I wonder whether it would be helpful to get into a culture of reviewing local officer roles, with a role lasting for, say, five years, so then there’s an opportunity for someone to step down if they wish, step back and rediscover their calling, or an opportunity for developing someone else.

Fiona And if you’ve got a culture of review, that makes it easier to say, ‘Maybe this isn’t the right role for you.’

I know of corps that have swapped their local officer roles, because they realised people weren’t serving according to their gifts or their passions, and the result afterwards was much better.

What other challenges can there be at a local level?

Fiona Sometimes, when corps leaders move to an appointment with a capable leadership team when they haven’t had one previously, it can be difficult to

Major Fiona

adapt their leadership style. It’s important to help leaders move from having a team to not and vice versa.

Jonny I think that can sometimes be why some local officers leave their roles, because they’ve been given the reins to lead previously and then been pulled back.

Fiona To some degree, these things should be covered in appointment profiles, which can help scenarios like that happen less.

Amy-Jo Also, if you’ve had an empowering officer who has enabled a local leadership team, do we need to be quick to put another officer in when they move? Is it better to wait until the right person comes along and support the corps in other ways?

Fiona I would always advocate having the right person over filling a gap, but no corps wants to be without officers – it isn’t easy.

How do we help people see or discover their calling?

Fiona We use Growing Leaders in our division, and that covers the whole discipleship piece as a foundation.

We’ve got a couple now who are applying to be territorial envoys because, through Growing Leaders, they have experienced what their calling is.

Captain Amy-Jo

Jonny It’s also about that ‘called to be...’ piece and respecting that. For people who don’t have a calling to be an officer, if people say to them, ‘You’re called to be an officer!’, that can really wind them up. One of the most memorable people from DFL was a schoolteacher who didn’t realise that she was already in fulltime ministry as a teacher. The lightbulb moment when she realised she was an agent of the Kingdom in that school was absolutely brilliant! We are all agents of the Kingdom wherever we are.

Amy-Jo We’re a missional Movement and 99 per cent of the mission happens when we leave our buildings. So enabling people to be more courageous talking about faith, offering to pray for people, seeing what they do every day as an act of worship or mission is important.

There is no one calling or one position that’s greater than any other. For the person called to teach in the classroom, that is their mission field, and that is just as important and just as worthwhile investing in as any other calling. We’re not just creating leaders to run a church, we’re creating leaders to grow a Kingdom. So we need to equip people for that, whether it be through using the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity’s (LICC) Life on the Frontline series or the Alpha course.

INTERVIEW

Growing Leaders Growing Leaders is a course created by the Church Pastoral Aid Society to develop new leaders and invest in those already leading. It is usually run as 10 sessions over 12 months. Learn more at cpas.org.uk/growing-leaders or, to find out if your division is running the course, contact your Divisional Headquarters.

Fiona I think sometimes other people see things in you that you haven’t seen yourself. When I first felt called to be an officer, I thought it was a ridiculous idea.

But several people were like, ‘I’m not surprised.’ So they’d seen it, but I hadn’t.

Or maybe I didn’t want to see it!

Amy-Jo We must also remember that we all get called to different roles in our lives.

The role we do now will be a different role in a few years’ time. People’s lives change and they can’t do certain things anymore, but they can take on other, new things. We can live that and model that as officers. Personally, I believe that officership is one of the most fantastic gifts God has ever given me.

This is one of life’s greatest privileges, to have the privilege to be able to speak into somebody else’s life, and for them to listen to you, not because I’ve done anything that warrants it, but because God put me in that place at that time to listen and occasionally open my mouth.

Jonny I think the word ‘privilege’ is so important, and I think it’s reminding myself that on the days when things aren’t going quite right, what a privilege it is to be a Salvation Army officer.

What excites you about growing leaders right now?

Amy-Jo People at my corps just keep turning up! I’m very blessed with that and it gives me a lot of freedom to see people for the gifts that they have. The leaders are very willing to take risks and they’ve seen the fruit of that.

Jonny I’m excited that there is a hunger and a real openness to having calling conversations. That gives me a lot of hope, because when I was going through whether I was called to be an officer or not, no one spoke about it. So I rejoice that that’s happening. But we’ve got a long way to go.

Fiona When we have candidates board and other meetings, we never have nothing to talk about – there’s always another conversation that’s been had.

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The Growing Leaders course is also where I see hope. Our division is in our second cohort and that’s about 40 people. A lot of them will go back to local leadership roles and be better local leaders in their corps.

We’re also beginning to see a number of our Roma corps sending people to Growing Leaders. We have five Roma congregations, most of them first-generation Christians, so they remember what it’s like to be without Jesus. They have an expectancy and trust that you don’t always find elsewhere. I think a lot of our young people also have that hunger for God and we don’t always harness it. I think we need to do that before they lose it.

Jonny What’s interesting is that, if you look at the early Salvation Army, young people were leading the way. I rejoice when I see young people around the territory rising up and starting to lead the way again. I rejoice at the officer who took a risk and made Phil Wall the territorial evangelist all those years ago - he was in his early twenties at the time! While I glimpse some changes, with younger officers being given wider leadership responsibilities, I still believe we need to recapture our risk-taking God-driven spirit again, with greater opportunities given to those who we see that God-given potential in.

Amy-Jo I’m still dreaming of the day when I’m not the youngest officer in my division! I know we’ve got lots of younger officers coming through now, and I think the leaders we have are

very courageous. I thank the leaders we have today for the courageous decisions they’re making to enable younger people to see a future in which they can lead.

What one thing can we all be doing to help grow leaders?

Jonny Always try to encourage people, because you don’t know what’s going on for that individual, and we need a culture of encouragement just to cheer people on. Whenever I see good stuff going on, I say, ‘That’s a really good job.’ Nine times out of ten, they go, ‘Oh no, no.’ People should just take the pat on the back!

Amy-Jo Whatever level we’re working at, wherever we’re working, we can be enabling somebody. It’ll look different for each of us, but we can be encouraging somebody. I find that people feel very encouraged when I say to them, ‘I think you could organise this. What can I do to help you?’

Fiona I think it’s also about empowering people. Certainly in a divisional role, trying to be a permission-giver, not a permission-holder. There are times when you have to do the opposite, but it’s about trying to be a permission-giver for people to be able to do the courageous thing. I think the key is remembering that we’re stewards of the ministry, not owners.

• Explore opportunities for leadership and service within The Salvation Army at tsa.link/calling-vocation or speak to someone at the Candidates Unit by contacting vocation@salvationarmy. org.uk.

Design for Life DFL is a weekend retreat at William Booth College to reflect on where you’ve been, look at where you are now and listen to God about the future. The next weekend runs from Friday 18 September to Sunday 20 September. For information and to book your place, visit tsa.link/DFL.

REFLECTION

Intercultural leadership Territorial Intercultural Mission Officer Coordinator Captain Adrian Allen considers how we can reflect the Kingdom of God

T

HE phrase ‘you can’t be what you can’t see’ is widely attributed to Marian Wright Edelman, an American children’s rights activist. It highlights that people need visible role models to believe in their own potential – particularly regarding career goals and overcoming societal limitations – and emphasises how a lack of representation can make it harder for people to visualise themselves going down certain paths.

In the Church, intercultural leadership is the intentional practice of integrating multiple cultural voices into the highest levels of decision-making and worship.

Unlike a multicultural approach, where different groups just coexist, intercultural leadership empowers diverse cultures to lead together. It requires a mutual exchange, where no single culture dominates the liturgy, budget or strategy.

Churches with intercultural leadership are better equipped to engage communities locally and globally, because diversity is not a barrier to overcome but a rich resource that fosters creativity and resilience. Diverse leadership teams use wider pools of cultural wisdom and expressions. And, when a church reflects the community it’s in, it is often a sign to anyone outside the church that they will be truly welcome and valued.

The motivation to engage with other cultures is called cultural intelligence.

This is about building knowledge of cultural variation and developing the ability to adapt behaviour appropriately.

Having cultural intelligence empowers leaders to move beyond good intentions or one-size-fits-all methods, enabling them to navigate unfamiliar cultural norms and build trust in ways

that ensure all members feel valued.

Someone with cultural intelligence suspends personal judgements to understand and motivate people across social and cultural groups.

A crucial part of all this is intentional mentorship, which helps bridge cultural divides and develop cultural competence. Mentorship can also be two-way and help leaders understand new perspectives. Through purposeful cross-cultural relationships, leaders can foster genuine unity, reconcile differences and produce humility while also creating a sense of trust and belonging.

Diversifying worship is also vital, because it can transform a congregation from a collection of cultures into a unified, integrated community that reflects the Kingdom of God – the biblical vision of people ‘from every nation, tribe, people and language’ (Revelation 7:9) worshipping together. It moves worship beyond the preferences of a dominant culture, fostering genuine inclusion, breaking down social barriers, and allowing all members to see themselves represented in the church’s life.

Of course, intercultural leadership has its challenges. A power imbalance might see a dominant culture resist sharing decision-making authority – even while enjoying the idea of diversity. Unconscious biases can skew judgements. Different cultures can have varying values around hierarchy, time management or individual and group responsibility. Misunderstandings can also arise from communication gaps and barriers, including differences in non-verbal language – such as gestures and eye contact – and feedback styles.

Overcoming these requires continuous self-reflection and

education. This involves engaging in the deliberate process of decentering, shifting away from one’s own cultural perspective as the primary lens for interpreting the world, because no single culture monopolises the understanding of God – everyone has something to bring to the table.

When they lead with an intercultural heart, leaders acknowledge and repair old wounds, share power, and cultivate deep, trust-based relationships. They seek to adapt their leadership and communication styles for different contexts, embrace empathy and listen to understand rather than respond, aiming to create a space where people feel safe to share. They are intentional in reaching people, so they do not become lost in the background.

As the communities we are in become more diverse, cultural intelligence is essential for churches to become theological mosaics, rich tapestries of interwoven threads; it’s not enough to simply welcome visitors without creating lasting belonging.

And, when we do show unity in diversity, it proves the power of the gospel to transcend natural human boundaries and reminds us that we are united not by shared ethnicity or background, but by grace.

• Based on a presentation given by Captain Adrian at Exploring Leadership Day 2026. For more information, email the intercultural mission team at intercultural. mission@salvationarmy.org.uk.

CAPTAIN ADRIAN ALLEN Corps Leader Stotfold

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ARMY UPDATES

EVENT

Celebrating growing leaders CENTRAL, SOUTHERN AND CHANNEL ISLANDS DELEGATES from across the division attended the final gathering of their Growing Leaders course. Together, they have explored what it means to be leaders, particularly in a Christian context, with a strong focus on personal growth, calling and leading with faith, humility and purpose.

The celebration and graduation gave each delegate the opportunity to reflect on their experience. It was inspiring to hear how they have grown and how they now see themselves in a new light. Many spoke openly about how they have been shaped. For some, it has been a deeply transformative experience.

Divisional Area Officer Major Denise Cooper shared a thoughtful message based on the Parable of the Sower, before mentors prayed with their delegates in a deeply meaningful and affirming time. The afternoon concluded with powerful worship as we sang together, reflecting on our shared desire to stand in God’s presence, seek his grace and be guided by his Spirit.

Our prayer for each delegate – and for one another – is that God will continue to work in their lives, and that they will remain attentive to the leading of the Holy Spirit as they step forward in ministry. We have been truly blessed to witness the growth of these seven individuals and look forward with anticipation to seeing how God will use them in the future. – AR

ANNIVERSARY FAULDHOUSE The corps celebrated 136 years of mission in the village with a weekend led by previous corps leader Major Alison Raybould (THQ). A varied Saturday evening included Gemma Gunn (Bellshill) as guest soloist, as well as a fun feature looking back at some old Sunday school choruses.

Sunday worship was a time of reflection as well as looking forward. Major Alison blessed, inspired and challenged the congregation to respond to what God is going to do through the corps fellowship, as they work and witness for him. – RR 14

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CHILDREN AND YOUTH STORNOWAY Divisional Leaders Major Gillian Jackson and Major Steve Dutfield led a joyful weekend celebrating the corps children and young people. Following on from a Saturday afternoon 10-pin bowling outing, the corps gathered on the Sunday for a special prizegiving. Each child received an age-appropriate Bible, marking an important milestone in their faith journey and offering encouragement for the future.

The weekend reflected a season of encouraging growth within the corps, with many new families bringing fresh energy and new opportunities for ministry. It was especially encouraging to see many relatives in attendance, with some visiting for the first time and others reconnecting, making it a meaningful time of community and celebration. – MS

CHILDREN AND YOUTH LEIGH-ON-SEA The visit of Birmingham Citadel Young People’s Band and Singing Company started at Southend’s seafront, where some members experienced the thrill rides at Adventure Island and everyone walked the pier. Following fish and chips at the hall, the youngsters provided an excellent programme that included several solo items, before a sleepover at the hall – with provision to watch a World Cup football match. Sunday morning worship, themed Called: Will You Answer? involved youngsters giving Scripture readings and testimonies. The band and singing company were used to the full, and their high standard of musicianship and commitment were appreciated. After a faith lunch, the visitors went home via Hadleigh Farm Estate, where they saw a different aspect of Salvation Army activity and Hadleigh Castle. – PJ

COMMUNITY FAULDHOUSE On an unusually dry day for the village gala, the corps presented a very visible presence on the village green with the use of the division’s Emergency Response Vehicle.

Lots of teas and coffees were served and many great conversations took place. So far, this visible witness has resulted in someone attending Sunday worship as well as a midweek activity. The corps are still praying for more outcomes. As part of the celebrations, Corps Sergeant-Major Robert Russell presented the gala queen with a youth Bible. – RR

INTERNATIONAL

United in faith and action FINLAND AND ESTONIA

CHILDREN AND YOUTH BATH CITADEL The young people led worship as part of their prizegiving day. The theme of the meeting was Influencers, and the children spoke of biblical figures, family members and sports people who influence their lives. It was lovely to witness the confidence and love of Jesus shining from these youngsters. – SL

CHILDREN AND YOUTH CIRENCESTER The GAP young people’s prizegiving coincided with the World Cup, which was used as a theme for the activities. The young people attempted to score a goal while avoiding hazards and wearing their team colours.

One bandsman, who had outgrown his team colours, brought his original shirt and an original black-and-white photograph of him wearing it around 70 years ago. – MG

CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill visited the territory, sharing encouragement, prayer and fellowship.

The commissioners spent time with officers, employees, members and people supported through the Army’s ministry in southern Finland.

The visit began at Territorial Headquarters in Helsinki, where they toured the building and met with members of the Executive Management Council. Later, they visited the Army’s Central House in Helsinki, which includes two housing units supporting 150 tenants. The day concluded with dinner and fellowship with retired officers at Helsinki Corps, where the commissioners shared a message of hope and prayed with those gathered.

The following day, they travelled to the Army’s children’s summer home in Nummela, which has served children from a variety of backgrounds since 1914 and was rebuilt in 2025. They shared worship, lunch and celebration with children and employees. The visit continued at one of the area’s I-Care charity shops, before travelling to Malmi, for the official opening of a new Goodwill Centre. The day concluded at Vuosaari Church, where those gathered heard a message from the Chief of the Staff and a testimony from Commissioner Shelley.

Throughout the visit, the commissioners were warmly received, encouraging Salvationists and friends across the region to continue to serve, united in faith and action. – AR

INTERNATIONAL

COMMUNITY HASTINGS CITADEL After being closed for a year, the newly refurbished hall hosted an employability and community fair to help people find work, access training and connect with support services. Now in its fourth year, the fair brought together the Army’s Employment Plus team with exhibitors including the East Sussex College Group and the Hastings Advice and Representation Centre. Helena Dollimore, MP, said: ‘It was great to see The Salvation Army buzzing with life again. The team here have put on an excellent event dedicated to helping local people into work.’ Pictured are Deputy Director of Employment Services Nick Read (THQ), Helena, Employment Plus Assistant Regional Manager Sam Sorrenti and corps leader Major Mandy Sands. – AR

SUNDERLAND MONKWEARMOUTH Lunches and coffee mornings have raised funds for essential medical and sanitary supplies for hospitals in Ukraine. Refugee Support Coordinator Olena Myronova – who came to the UK in 2022 – said: ‘Every donation, every box packed and every act of kindness brings hope to people facing the hardships of war.’ – AR

EMERGENCY AID NORTH SHIELDS Volunteers with the Army’s emergency response vehicle supported around 50 firefighters at a large fire on an industrial estate. A few days later, they also provided pastoral support to emergency services dealing with another fire at a commercial property. Julie Judson, the Army’s deputy emergency response coordinator in the North East, said: ‘We couldn’t do this without our team of dedicated volunteers who answer the phone any time day or night and always show up willing to do what they can to help ease the pressures on 999 workers.’ – AR Salvationist 8 August 2026

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BO’NESS DHANI Miller was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader Major Matthew Bennett. In his testimony, Dhani spoke of not having a strong faith – considering himself an agnostic – but, with the encouragement and kindness of Christian friends and influences within the Army, music has played a key part of his journey as he acknowledged the undeniable presence of God at work in his life. Acknowledging family links to the corps and at the invitation of corps members, Dhani had been attending the corps for a year and in his welcome testified to his full commitment in what God is doing using the gifts he has – particularly, playing cornet in the band to the service of God and the fellowship he feels so welcome to be a part of.

The band played a composition by Dhani in response to his testimony. – MB

POOLE HENRY and Rowena Angell were enrolled as soldiers on Pentecost Sunday by corps leader Major Katrina Greetham.

Having been soldiers at another corps previously, they returned to the Army in recent years and strongly felt God leading them to become soldiers again. After much prayer, they have taken this step in faith. They are a blessing to the corps fellowship. Holding the flag is Stanley Walker. – KG

PAISLEY CITADEL

REGENT HALL WILL was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Major Mark Rose, in front of family and friends from his corps, college and school and even his old headteacher. In a compelling testimony, Will spoke with honesty as he shared his personal journey to faith, drawing parallels with the film Rocky as he recounted drifting away from faith to a transformative encounter with Jesus. As the band played ‘Going the Distance’, Will declared a courageous covenant, offering himself afresh to God’s service and committing to stand with the marginalised while sharing, with boldness and faith, the redeeming love and hope of Christ. Will is pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Major David Jackson, Major Mark and Colour Sergeant Robin Moorwood. – MR

PENTECOST was celebrated with the enrolments of Tom Fullerton, Carl McIntyre and Caroline Bell as soldiers and the welcome of Gillian Fullerton and Annmarie Gillies as adherents. Caroline was invited to the fellowship band. She had been a soldier many years before but had no idea that it was the Army she was being invited to. She brought Carl as her satnav, and they both started attending the corps. Jill, Caroline’s sister, and Bill Fullerton later followed. Annmarie is a carer who came to the meeting supporting one of her clients and she too wanted to become a member of the corps. Each testified to the loving presence of God in their lives. Tom, Carl, Gillian, Caroline and Annmarie are pictured with corps leader Major Catherine Wyles. – CW

CANNOCK MEGAN Slater was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Major Gary Chatburn (now at Bromsgrove and Evesham). Megan spoke of how the corps and music sections have encouraged, supported and prayed for her over the years and how we have become her Christian family. She sang the worship song ‘King of Kings’ as part of her testimony. She was supported by family members and Divisional Youth Officer Captain Corinne Seabridge. Also pictured is Assistant Corps Sergeant-Major Alexander Shelley holding the flag. – AS 16

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HISTON LYNNE Ellis was welcomed as a soldier by corps leader Major Georgina Symons (now at Batley). Lynne has previous connections with the Army and testified of two strong women who had influenced her in childhood: her Salvationist grandma and her aunt, who was an officer. Lynne is pictured with Majors Rob and Georgina, as well as Bandmaster Rob Carmichael and Daphne Watts, who has greatly encouraged her. – JC

LLANELLI BARBARA Davies and Princess Tomlinson were enrolled as soldiers by corps leader Captain Karen Symonds on Pentecost Sunday. Barbara and Princess gave their testimonies on how God had used them in their lives through various situations they had encountered on their journeys. – ST

BARKING LINDA Underwood, Diane Orme, Helen Hill and Brian Hill were welcomed as adherents by corps leaders Majors Bernie and Stephen Westwood (now at Clowne). Helen shared personal words of witness about her journey of faith, and how she felt like it was coming home when she started to attend the corps. This sentiment was echoed during recruits’ classes by Linda, Diane and Brian. – SW

EASTBOURNE CITADEL THE corps celebrated a significant and joy-filled moment with the enrolment of its first soldier in many years. The occasion marked a special milestone for the corps mission, and a powerful testimony of faith, commitment and new beginnings. Mia Gartshore has quickly become a much-loved and inspiring presence within the corps. Described by those who know her as an exceptional young woman of genuine warmth and conviction, Mia shared a deeply personal testimony during the service. Mia was formally enrolled by corps leader Major Maxine Walker, in a moment filled with celebration and encouragement from the congregation. The service highlighted not only Mia’s personal journey, but also the ongoing life and growth within the corps family. Her enrolment stands as a reminder of the continuing impact of faith lived out with authenticity, and the encouragement that comes when individuals choose to publicly dedicate their lives to God within their community. The corps rejoices in welcoming Mia as she takes this important step, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her walk of faith and service. – RW

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD ON Pentecost Sunday, the corps was delighted to celebrate the welcome of Emanuel Ababio as an adherent. Emanuel studies at the university in the city and joined us in September.

He has become a valued member of the corps in this time.

Emanuel is pictured with corps leaders Captains Caron and Jon Doyle. – JD

WENDY Nyashanu and Thomas Hall were enrolled as soldiers by corps leader Major Keely Standley. Wendy was brought up in the Army in Zimbabwe and, after moving to the UK, attended both the Army and Church of England. Wendy chose to come back to worship at the corps and has become a soldier again as she feels this is her spiritual home. Thomas also attended the Army as a child and reconnected through the band’s pre-contest music programme at a brass band contest in Birmingham. He then came to the meeting the next day and immediately felt welcomed and at home. Tom felt called to become a soldier and feels this is part of God’s plan for his life. – RO Salvationist 8 August 2026

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ENGAGEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

International appointments

Appointed

The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff

MAJOR CAROLINE BROPHY-PARKIN, additional appointment, Divisional Mission Officer (1 day per week), Central and Southern Scotland Division

Effective 1 August MAJORS WILSON AND BESNART CHIWOYA, officers of the Zambia Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Uganda Territory, with the rank of lieut-colonel Effective 1 January 2027 MAJORS ROBERT AND JANTJE FENNEMA, officers of the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovakia Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development, Eastern Europe Territory, with the rank of lieut-colonel LIEUT-COLONEL PAUL AND MAJOR WENDY HATELEY, officers of the Australia Territory, as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Territory, Major Wendy with the rank of lieut-colonel CAPTAIN PIERRE-ALAIN CÉSAR, officer of the France and Belgium Territory, as Private Secretary-designate to the Chief of the Staff, IHQ, effective 1 November, to become Private Secretary to the Chief of the Staff, IHQ, effective 1 January 2027

Local officers appointed YOUTH TEAM LEADER AND DEPUTY SAFEGUARDING LEAD CATHERINE BARLOW, Rock Ferry QUARTERMASTER ALAN DAVISON, Rock Ferry CHILDREN’S TEAM LEADER ERICA DICKINSON, Rock Ferry COMMUNITY TEAM LEAD AND DEPUTY SAFEGUARDING LEAD MYRTLE LACEY, Rock Ferry ASSISTANT CHILDREN’S TEAM LEADER AND CHILDREN’S ADVOCATE HANNAH TRIGGS, Rock Ferry 18

Salvationist 8 August 2026

Effective 16 July

Effective 23 July MAJORS DAVID AND MERLE GARRAD, officers in retirement, Louth (3 days per week)

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Mon 10 Aug – Wed 12 Aug IHQ (The General’s Commission on Membership, Covenant and Belonging)*

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Thu 20 Aug South East Division * Commissioner Jenine Main only

NOTICES Children and Youth Voice survey: Have your say!

MAJOR NICOLA WATSON, Territorial Chaplaincy Officer

The Children and Youth Department are working with Participation People to better understand how children and young people are listened to, valued and involved across The Salvation Army. We are encouraging all adults to complete a 15 to 20-minute survey to share their experiences and insights. Your feedback will help shape future developments and ensure the voices of children and young people are at the heart of everything we do. Complete the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/TSADiagnostic. The survey will also be featured in the 15 August issue of Kids Alive!, for children to have their own say!

Effective 1 October

Independent Safeguarding Review: We need your help

COMMISSIONER CEDRIC HILLS, officer in retirement, Middle East Regional Leader, IHQ COMMISSIONER LYN HILLS, officer in retirement, Middle East Regional Leader, IHQ

The Salvation Army has commissioned an external organisation to conduct an independent safeguarding review across our territory. We work with some of the most vulnerable people and so it’s essential that we have the most robust safeguarding processes in place, which is why INEQE Safeguarding Group is conducting the review. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and so everyone is encouraged to take part.

Responses are submitted directly to INEQE and are anonymous and confidential. Please complete the survey most relevant to you by 4 September at ineqe.com/TheSalvationArmy.

Effective 2 October

Race inclusion course

MAJOR KIM WILSON, officer in retirement, Regional Wellbeing Officer (2 days per week)

This course is designed to help corps explore how we can become more intentionally welcoming and inclusive communities. Using short videos, teaching input, and real stories from Salvationists, the course creates space for honest reflection, discussion and growth, rooted in our Christian faith and mission. If your corps is interested in running the course, or if you would like support, guidance or advice on how to get started, email racial.inclusion@salvationarmy.org.uk.

Effective 30 July

Effective 1 November MAJOR ELWYN HARRIES, officer in retirement, Regional Wellbeing Officer (2 days per week)

International Youth Congress 2027: Applications open

Promoted to Glory

The Big Connection 2026

DAVID MCALISTER, Belfast Citadel SONGSTER MAUREEN PAYNE, Brighton Congress Hall DORIS PEARCE, Staple Hill, on 23 July BRIAN MCMANUS, Bristol South, on 26 July

Bereaved GEOFF PEARCE, Staple Hill, of his stepmother Doris Pearce

The UK and Ireland Territory has been allocated 23 places at the next International Youth Congress, a global Salvation Army gathering for 2,500 young adults in Jakarta, Indonesia. Apply by 6 September 2026 for the opportunity to worship together, explore God’s calling and develop leadership gifts alongside peers from across the world.

For more information, visit tsa.link/iyc2027.

From fundraising toolkits and project ideas, to posters, leaflets and outreach materials, resources to help you plan and promote this year’s appeal are now available at tsa.link/big-connection-resources. Corps can continue to use it to support local mission and ministry, a local social work expression or another corps.

Singing By Heart leaders training Support by Music and Creative Arts, this course for anyone interested in running a Singing By Heart dementia friendly programme. Contact ali.thornton-dean@salvationarmy.org.uk to request Zoom details.

SOUNDS Sunday Worship From 2 to 30 August, Sunday Worship will invite us to take a digital Sabbath through a repeated, stripped-back programme that will encourage us to embrace rhythms focused on rest, presence and discipleship. Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the 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.

TRIBUTES

MAJOR JOHN MCCOMBE MAJOR John McCombe was born into a Salvationist family and spent most of his childhood at Swadlincote and Burton-on-Trent Corps.

John responded to God’s call on his life and entered the International Training College in 1975 as part of the Companions of Christ session, aged just 18. There, he met his future wife, Jennifer. They married in 1978 and served together for over 45 years in a variety of corps, THQ and William Booth College appointments. In retirement, John took on the role of recruiting sergeant at Boscombe Corps, showing his unwavering pastoral heart.

John was a servant leader who followed the example of Christ throughout his life and was devoted to his Saviour to the very end. All who came across him felt his warmth and encouragement as he sought to see them grow and thrive. He had a love of worship and enjoyed playing and listening to the band in each corps he served in.

John loved studying Scripture and preaching, always in a way that unlocked God’s word for others. He also loved community and would often be the last to leave after a meeting as he would be talking and showing interest in the lives of the individuals he came into contact with.

John was promoted to Glory on 11 May with his wife and children by his side. His wife, his children and their families are all deeply thankful to God for having had John in their lives. They are also grateful for the overwhelming love, prayers and support of so many. – RD

PATRICIA BEAUCHAMP RIPLEY PAT was born in February 1940, the eldest of three children.

After school, she worked at the Co-op Drapery, where she met her first husband, Geoff Bamford. Their three daughters, Karen, Lynn and Helen, were joined by a son, David, from her marriage to Ron Beauchamp.

Pat is also survived by grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Pat loved life and valued her friends, travelling with two of them to London each December to visit Fortnum & Mason and a show.

She also loved music. Tom Jones, Roy Orbison, Jim Reeves and the Beach Boys were firm favourites, but Pat especially loved musicals and opera and enjoyed prompting for the Ripley and Alfreton Operatic Society.

Pat was raised Baptist, but an invitation to the home league led to soldiership and full involvement at the corps. Pat gave herself wholeheartedly to everything, including her relationship with Jesus. – MP

VIOLET CLAMPTON BARROW-INFURNESS VIOLET was born in 1934. Invited to The Salvation Army by a friend, she gave her heart to Jesus and became a junior soldier, singing company member, guard, senior soldier and a company guard.

Violet was a loving and devoted wife to Tom, married in 1958, and was caring and proud of her three children and two grandchildren.

She was engaged in shop work, cleaning and catering, but her main focus was as homemaker and provider.

Violet was big on family, an avid reader, a puzzle solver, cook and baker. She was kind, generous, joyful, caring and supportive of others in times of need.

Violet loved God throughout her days. God was first in her life, and she loved others before herself. She was promoted to Glory on 3 June 2026.

A faithful soldier of Jesus, Violet is missed by her family and all who knew her. – SC

DONALD GREGORY RISCA DON, known to many, along with his brother, as one half of the Gregory boys, was born in 1936 to Salvation Army parents.

He was brought up at Abercarn Corps, which became Risca when Pontymister and Abercarn amalgamated in 1980. Don celebrated his 90th birthday not long before his promotion to Glory.

He worked hard as a coal merchant with his dad and brother, carrying bags of coal that were heavier than him.

Don was a proud family man and, along with his wife June, raised three children: Amanda, David and Alan. He was also a loving grandad to his four grandchildren.

Don loved his sport and was a keen cricketer and golfer, though, first and foremost, he was a man of God. A bandmaster’s dream – always there and not a bad player either!

In everything, he put God first. – AR

KEITH WHEELER RUGBY KEITH Wheeler, along with his wife, Kath, graduated from the training college in 1969 and served at many corps across the territory.

Keith loved being an evangelist and never missed an opportunity to ‘preach the word’.

During their time as officers, Keith and Kath went to work as house parents in a boys’ home in Somerset, taking the boys to the Army every Sunday morning. While here, Keith trained to be a teacher and took up a position in Tyntesfield School and transferred to Rugby Corps in 1977.

He conducted meetings at Rugby Corps and was also the young people’s sergeant-major for a while. When Keith retired, they bought a market garden in Rugby. Keith’s ministry over the years has inspired many, evident by the full hall at his funeral, which was conducted by Commissioner Robert Street.

Keith leaves his widow Kath, his daughter Diane, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Well done good and faithful servant. – KW Salvationist 8 August 2026

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