Salvationist 8 May 2021

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

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Innovative ministry Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory PLUS

WHAT THE PEOPLE SAY

SEE PAGES 10 AND 11

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

CHURCHES MUST ENGAGE IN ‘DIFFICULT CONVERSATION’ ABOUT RACIAL AND ETHNIC INJUSTICE Churches ‘must confront issues of racial injustice head on’ with research, reflection and reparation, says a report by a new ecumenical body established in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests and George Floyd’s death.

The ... Racial Justice Advocacy Forum (RJAF) brings together the Quakers, the Sam Sharpe Project, United Reformed Church, Methodist Church, the Evangelical Alliance, Baptists Together, Churches Together in Britain and Ireland and the Ascension Trust.

It says that churches must engage in the ‘difficult conversation’ around racial and ethnic injustice both in society and in the Church, including ‘not only its historic legacies but sites of complicity and ongoing injustices ... in church life, ministerial formation and community engagement’.

The call is a response to the recent government-sponsored Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities report, which downplayed institutional racism as a factor in disparities between ethnic groups…

The RJAF said churches should participate in theological conversations about ethnic and racial discrimination, particularly around ‘the colour-blind/ anti-politics stances that affect a community’s ability to action justice for those experiencing discrimination and prejudice’.

Christian Today

COVID MEMORIAL WALL SHOULD BECOME PERMANENT IF THE PUBLIC WANTS

FOOD BANK USE INCREASES BY ONE THIRD DURING PANDEMIC, TRUSSELL TRUST REPORTS

The Archbishop of Canterbury has said bereaved relatives should be allowed to decide whether the National Covid Memorial Wall in central London should be made permanent.

Justin Welby spoke with people adding tributes to the wall, which features roughly 150,000 pink and red hearts representing those who have died with coronavirus, along with Rabbi Daniel Epstein and Imam Kazeem Fatai in a show of support and solidarity.

Mourners began painting on the wall opposite the Houses of Parliament, to ask the government to acknowledge the deaths and make the memorial permanent, on 29 March.

The memorial, which stretches almost 500 metres between Westminster and Lambeth bridges by the Thames, is still being added to as the death toll rises.

The number of parcels given out by food banks in the year to the end of March grew by 33 per cent, the Trussell Trust reported…

During the year, the charity’s food banks gave out more than 2.5 million emergency food parcels, 980,000 of them for children.

The number is 128 per cent higher than five years ago.

The figures come from the 1,471 food banks affiliated to the Trussell Trust. The charity estimates that ... at least another 1,034 independent food banks, and many other organisations, including churches, have distributed emergency food...

Each parcel typically contains three days’ worth of food for one person. During the pandemic, many food banks have also been distributing parcels containing food for seven days... The overall total announced ... is up from 1.9 million parcels in 2019–20.

Premier

Church Times

LOCKDOWNS HURT CHILD SPEECH AND LANGUAGE SKILLS There is growing evidence that the past year of lockdowns has had an impact on young children’s language skills, according to research.

Data from 50,000 pupils and a survey of schools across England have shown an increased number of four and five-year-olds needing help with language.

Evidence shows poor speech development can have long-term effects on learning.

The government says it is investing £18 million in early-years catch-up, including extra help for those in Reception year.

The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) research suggests the measures taken to combat the pandemic have deprived the youngest children of social contact and experiences essential for increasing vocabulary.

Less or no contact with grandparents, social distancing, no play dates and the wearing of face coverings in public have left children less exposed to conversations and everyday experiences.

Of 58 primary schools surveyed across England, 76 per cent said pupils starting school in September needed more support with communication than in previous years.

BBC News

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Salvationist 8 May 2021

ISSN 2516-5909

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle 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

THE GROWING SEASON THIS spring, gardeners in the UK have had to contend with unusually cold April weather. While just a few weeks ago we enjoyed the second warmest March day on record, with temperatures hitting 24.5C, we’ve just had the frostiest April in 60 years.

Apparently, high pressure dominated the weather during much of the month, leading to clear skies overnight that allowed temperatures to fall below zero. That was bad news for gardeners and farmers. The Met Office advised them to keep tender plants indoors and a spokesman for the Royal Horticultural Society said that flowers such as camellias and magnolias had been ‘scorched’, while cherry, plum and pear blossom had been injured so the ‘fruit crop will be reduced’.

Marigolds are the subject of green-fingered Annmarie Batty’s reflection in this week’s Salvationist. She had problems growing them, not because of the frost, but because of garden pests. Once she’d found a variety that could withstand the slugs and snails, her garden was filled with orange blooms. They not only looked beautiful but inspired thoughts about God, which she shares with us.

In his meditation Major Alistair Dawson sees the beauty of creation as a revelation of the mind of God, just as a work of art expresses the mind of the artist. Alistair reminds us that we are part of God’s creative work, a work that will be completed in eternity.

Although we’ve had a colder than normal April in the UK, we don’t experience the extremes of cold or heat found elsewhere in the world. In some places, high temperatures and dry weather mean farmers face drought year after year. The 2021 Helping-Hand Appeal, which has the theme Feeding Hope, aims to help people whose crops are uncertain by supporting the Army’s food security projects. Challenge 750 – so named because 750 million people were exposed to severe levels of food insecurity in 2019 – is part of the Feeding Hope campaign, and our fundraising feature shows how you can take part with an activity involving the number 750.

If some parts of the world experience extremes of heat, others experience the opposite. In Norway, for example, winter temperatures in some places can drop as low as -20C, with an average of almost -7C. Life is tough for people living on the streets, and in our ‘In the zone’ article featuring the Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory, we see how the Army supports them with street nurses and street clinics. Other innovative ministries include a youth outreach programme, an Alcohol-free Day and a car wash that employs people with addiction and mental health challenges.

Looking out at my garden I’m delighted to see things starting to grow again. Plants that seemed to have died off in the winter have come back with new growth and colour – despite the recent frost. During these past months the pandemic and lockdown have been like a long winter. Activities have been cut back, and the colour has gone out of many people’s lives. But there can be brighter days ahead – for us individually and for the work of our corps and centres. Let’s thank God in anticipation and take every opportunity he gives us in a new season of growth.

Quotes from the media

2

Message from the territorial leader for leader development

4

News

5 and 6

Prayer matters

6

Feature Willing to move, learn and trust

7

by Major Lindy Rose

The Jericho road Part 5: Taking the initiative

8

by Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis

More rear-mirror views ‘I’ll fight to the very end’

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by General John Larsson (Retired)

Feature What the people say

10 and 11

In the zone Innovative and faithful

12 and 13

Interview Well versed in the Bible

14

Lieut-Colonel Ian Barr talks to Emily Bright

Viewpoint We need to pray against racism

15

by Major Marjory Parrott

Bible study Nineveh calling

16 and 17

by Major Julie Johnson

Through the week with 16 and 17 Salvationist

by Major Lynda Levis

Reflection Messages from marigolds

18

by Annmarie Batty

Meditation At the edge of time

19

by Major Alistair Dawson

Preview Thy Kingdom Come

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Fundraising Challenge 750

21

Announcements

22

Adverts

23

The Salvation Army and me

24

featuring CT Cathie Robinson

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

Salvationist 8 May 2021

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT

The heart of worship

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S my husband, Anthony, and I were driving around London a couple of weeks ago we were encouraged to see how many churches were open and had their welcome signs up, inviting people to come in.

Life has changed for all of us over the past year and, as a church, we have had to adapt our ways of ministry. We’ve had remarkable opportunities to serve in practical ways and be open for prayer and quiet reflection. Our online presence has reached countless people with the good news of the life-transforming love of Jesus. Many of those people may never have crossed the doorsteps of our churches, so we’re grateful for that.

There is now an opportunity to make careful preparations and plans for how we might return to worship and what our ministry and service will look like. We need to ensure that we’re ready and that we take great care in how we welcome newcomers. We look forward to those days ahead. Let’s be truly welcoming.

Two Sundays ago, Anthony and I had the opportunity to go to our own corps, Regent Hall, for the first time since the last lockdown. It was a wonderful experience. We were able to meet people who we hadn’t seen for well over a year and see how the children had 4

Salvationist 8 May 2021

grown. The officers and their team made sure everything was Covid safe. And even though we were worshipping with masks and couldn’t sing, it was great to be together and sense the presence of God. We had opportunity to pray for the people of India. Please continue to pray for them, and for The Salvation Army, which is serving in the midst of the situation alongside other agencies.

I hope that, in time and with great care, many more of us will be able to return to our own places of worship, and I’m sure that will be a blessing.

Worship, of course, isn’t just about going to church or the Army on Sunday.

Jesus once had a great conversation with a Samaritan woman. John 4 tells us that she met Jesus at a well. He spoke to her first – not the done thing in those days – and asked for a drink. In their conversation he told her all about her life, about her five husbands and her present relationship, and she was astounded. He offered her living water that would be an eternal spring, welling up within. She was captivated.

Then the conversation moved on to the subject of worship. Jesus told her: ‘A time is coming and has now come when the true worshippers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshippers must worship in the Spirit and in truth’ (vv23 and 24). Worship is about our hearts and it’s about our relationship with Jesus.

In a message many months ago, Anthony mentioned that the New Testament Greek word for worship, SURVN\QHǀ, is translated literally as ‘I come close to kiss’. If we’re going to embrace somebody it’s often difficult when our hands are full of other stuff.

In a similar way, in our worship there are sometimes things that come between us and God, preventing us from having a real experience. These things could be our fears or our selfish desires. Perhaps there are situations that we’re anxious about or are struggling with, and we hold them close. If we are to truly worship God, we need to put them down.

Matt Redman wrote a song that came right out of that experience. He is a great Christian songwriter, but that service for God had in some way distracted him from his relationship with God. He suddenly discovered that he wasn’t as close to God as he had been in the past, and from that experience he wrote a song, ‘When the Music Fades’, which is number 635 in the Salvation Army songbook. As life opens up for us and we perhaps have opportunity to worship together again, let’s remember that worshipping Jesus is an everyday experience that comes from our hearts – and it’s all about him.

When the music fades, all is stripped away, And I simply come; Longing just to bring something that’s of worth, That will bless your heart.

I’ll bring you more than a song, For a song in itself is not what you have required.

You search much deeper within Through the way things appear; You’re looking into my heart.

I’m coming back to the heart of worship, And it’s all about you, all about you, Jesus.

I’m sorry, Lord, for the thing I’ve made it, When it’s all about you, all about you, Jesus.

GILL COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT O This

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

NEWS

CORPS

The opening ceremony in 1915

PRESENTATION On her retirement as Redruth corps secretary, Barbara Trevena receives a certificate of recognition to thank her for 49 years of dedicated service and loving care

Building awarded Grade II listing status NOTTINGHAM WILLIAM BOOTH MEMORIAL HALLS THE corps building, built between 1914 and 1915, has been listed as Grade II by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England to reflect its architectural significance.

The Halls were designed by The Salvation Army’s architect, Oswald Archer, and built with funds raised by people in the area as a tribute to William Booth, who was born in Nottingham. The neo-classical building was opened in 1915 and has been used to serve

the community ever since. During the pandemic the corps has provided food parcels and meals, working with 10 local schools.

Corps officers Majors Julia and Robert Jepson said: ‘Our historic building has been and still is a home to public Christian worship…

Alongside this we serve the community by hosting parent-and-toddler groups and seniors clubs, feeding people who are experiencing homelessness, and holding student and youth activities. It’s a home for those who need friends and a place to find faith in God.’ Dr Melissa Thompson, Historic England’s senior listing adviser, said: ‘It is not only the architectural quality that makes the building special but its association with William Booth.’ – AR

ARMY NEWS ENGLAND BBC Radio 4 and Keep the Faith magazine reported on The Salvation Army’s recommendation that more must be done in the long term to help struggling families and individuals. BBC Radio 4’s World Tonight visited Basildon and spoke to corps officer Lieutenant Paul Williams about the temporary continuation of the £20 uplift to universal credit and whether it was enough. Lieutenant Paul said: ‘We’ve had people come to us who simply didn’t have enough money to make ends meet… The support networks that people might’ve had before Covid-19 are just not there and, at this stage, they probably need more than £20.’ Keep the Faith reported on how the Army is urging the government to draw up a clear plan to help people trapped in poverty by the coronavirus pandemic. – AR

BIRTHDAY

COMMUNITY NOTTINGHAM WILLIAM BOOTH MEMORIAL HALLS Junior band member Ben sounded the Last Post in honour of a prison officer from HMP Nottingham who died from Covid-19. Ben’s father works at the prison alongside two soldiers from the corps who are chaplains. – RJ

Gladys Gathergood receives gifts and cards on her 108th birthday from Enfield corps officer Major Sharen Furlong, along with a personal letter from Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill Salvationist 8 May 2021

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NEWS

FUNDRAISING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S MINISTRIES FOCUS

by Lauren Westwood, digital content producer (IHQ)

RIPON Sisters Petra and Thora organised a ‘move-a-thon’, raising almost £1,700 in support of the Army’s work with vulnerable people. The girls challenged themselves and school friends to exercise for as long and as vigorously as they could.

Petra kept going for almost two and a half hours and Thora for almost two hours. The siblings were inspired after visiting the corps at Christmas. Petra said: ‘We learn about Jesus at school and in all the stories he’s doing something – healing the ill or helping the poor or the lonely. We’d always thought we can’t heal the sick or anything like that, but we could do something.’

Thora said: ‘Thinking of why I was doing it kept me going. I’d say to anyone doing something like this, you’re going to make a real difference to people’s lives.’ – AR

ARMY NEWS

Record numbers seek debt advice

SUNDAY 9 MAY We pray for those ministering to and alongside women in their communities, their countries and internationally, including World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle and World Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham. May their hearts always be tuned to the song you are singing over them and the women they serve. Grant them wisdom, clarity and sound judgement as they advocate for women of The Salvation Army.

MONDAY 10 MAY May we be so bold as to pray for protection over the lives of women who face injustice, not losing sight of our heavenly hope for a fair, just and loving world. Let us not become complacent in our fight for justice for marginalised and oppressed people, or blind to the struggle of those around us. Jesus, we need you now more than ever. Amen.

NATURE FOCUS

by Stephanie Chagas-Bijl (Resource Hub, THQ)

UK THE Salvation Army’s debt advice centres saw requests for help increase by 28 per cent last year as pandemic poverty took hold of many vulnerable households. To meet demand, teams have been working longer hours and services have been expanded across eastern Scotland, the Isle of Man, Birmingham, Middlesbrough and Exeter.

Lorraine Cook, the Army’s financial inclusion development manager, said: ‘Schemes like the universal credit uplift and furlough were lifelines, but for many it wasn’t enough to prevent a slide into debt.

‘It’s not just people who have lost jobs. Nearly 20 per cent of those who got in touch with us last year cited low income as the main source of their debt, reflecting the rise of in-work poverty, which now affects one in eight families in the UK.’ Lucy was helped by a Salvation Army debt advice centre.

‘There were times I felt like I had no one who I could call and, because I’m ill, it was all too much,’ she said. ‘I thought I would kill myself. But then I thought who would my son turn to? I realised I would be running away from my problems.

‘The Salvation Army has helped me and shown me there is a way.’ – AR

COMMUNITY SCARBOROUGH The corps has outlined its plans for the future as lockdown restrictions start to ease. Among the planned activities are cooking courses for families, older people and vulnerable people in the community, with a focus on nutrition and hygiene. – AR 6

SATURDAY 8 MAY Father, we know that you love each one of us with an unconditional, deep love. We admit that we fall short of showing that same love to others at times. May we learn to love without prejudice. May we affirm the people around us as worthy of your love and show them that they are precious in your sight, and so too in ours.

Salvationist 8 May 2021

TUESDAY 11 MAY ‘And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labour or spin’ (Matthew 6:28). Lord, thank you for the way in which you have made each plant and flower to grow perfectly. Help me to remember today that if you care for them in such a way, then how much more you care for me! Amen.

WEDNESDAY 12 MAY Take time today to look up at the clouds in the sky, to watch the sun set, to smell the scent of a flower or observe the ants at work! As you do this, pause, take it in and give thanks to God for the beauty of nature.

THURSDAY 13 MAY Lord, forgive us for the times when we don’t care for your creation as we should. Help us to re-evaluate our choices and make changes that will have a positive impact on nature, instead of a detrimental one.

Teach us how to care for all you have made so that we can enjoy it for many years to come. Amen.

THY KINGDOM COME FOCUS

by Captains Christianne and Tim Swansbury (Carshalton) FRIDAY 14 MAY – ME (LUKE 22:42) Lord Jesus, thank you for everything you are and for all you have done, especially for your life and example. Please help me to follow you today, to be like you, and to pray like you, ‘Not my will, but yours be done’ (Luke 22:42). Thy Kingdom come; thy Kingdom come in my life, and my kingdom go.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources Salvationist Salvationist1310March April 2021

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FEATURE I Candidates Sunday

Major Lindy Rose Willing to move, learn and trust As we approach Candidates Sunday (16 May) different Salvationists explain what the theme Be Willing means to them

‘O

NE volunteer is better than ten pressed men,’ or so the saying goes. But I’m not sure how true this is. I’ve heard countless leaders share their stories, which go along the lines of, ‘I never set out to do this,’ or, ‘This was never part of my plan.’

When it comes to my calling to officer ministry, I can identify with that. I was happy in my work life and my married life and heavily invested in the ministry of my corps. As a couple, Mark and I had hopes and dreams and at no point in those early years did either of us mention being officers.

Countless times, at a whole raft of Salvation Army events, I’d heard the call for officers and just ignored it. I wasn’t unwilling – it was just that I’d never felt it was God’s plan for me.

An Army holiday week at Butlin’s changed all that. God clearly asked me to serve him as an officer. I said yes straight away and trusted. I used to sing a song that said, ‘I am willing, Lord,/ To be just exactly what you want me to be’, and I truly meant it, although I had no idea where it would eventually lead. I was a country girl and would never have considered living in London, yet that’s

where I had to go for training. I had to be willing to move wherever God wanted me to be.

Acts 17:28 says, ‘In him we live and move and have our being’ – and my willingness meant living this out.

Since we moved to London in 1992 we’ve moved several more times. I can’t say it’s always been easy, as I believe in being fully invested where I am at any one time. But when asked to go, I go – and I go willingly, trusting in the knowledge that there’s nowhere that God cannot work in and through me.

Moving is much more than a physical thing. Over my time in ministry God has moved my thinking, repositioning me for deeper engagement with him.

Are you willing to say yes to God? How far are you willing to move?

My first time living in London meant being willing to learn, and I am still learning every day. Because I needed to start earning a living, I never studied beyond O-levels. I always thought that was where my formal learning would probably stay. However, my willingness to learn and my enjoyment of study as a spiritual discipline led me to complete not only my officer training but a BA (Hons) degree, an ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) level 5 qualification and an MA, alongside countless other informal opportunities for learning. Some of my most valuable lessons have been learnt in the practical aspects of officer service, and these two types of learning have fused together, making me more useful and fruitful.

Have you found the joy of learning?

Are you willing for God to teach you new things every day?

I had to be willing to trust. This is easier said than done! Experience has taught me to be willing but also cautious. One dictionary defines ‘willing’ as ‘favourably disposed or inclined; keen and obliging’.

But always being willing to say yes might not be the right response. Occasionally, being willing means saying no. At all times trust is key.

I’m reminded too that simply willing something to happen can’t make it happen. Trust is knowing that God’s plan is always the best plan. I’m sure you’re familiar with the saying, ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way.’ Sometimes I’ve had to muster all my will, my strong determination, my deep desire to move, learn and trust – not when I choose, but when he calls.

How high are your levels of trust in God? Are you willing to trust him with everything?

My prayer is found in verse 4 of song 704 in the Army songbook.

Now is my will resigned, Struggles are quelled; Clay on the wheel am I, Nothing withheld.

Master, I yield to thee, Crumble, then fashion me Flawless, and fit to be Indwelt by thee.

My ‘will’ feeds my willingness, my ‘won’t’ stops me in my tracks. Every step of the way, even at the hardest times, Jesus’ prayer to his Father rings in my ears as his will became resigned in the most challenging way: ‘But no matter what, your will must be mine’ (Luke 22:42 The Passion Translation).

MAJOR ROSE IS CORPS OFFICER, HENDON

Next week Cadet Jamie Jones Salvationist 8 May 2021

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The Jericho Road Part 5:

Taking the initiative Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis continues a six-part reflection on the parable of the good Samaritan

A

S we think about the good Samaritan it will be helpful to take a look at the historical background of the Samaritans.

They were considered a fallen race, unworthy to take their place with the Jewish people. This went back to the time when Jews were carried away to captivity in Babylon. Although they lived in exile they did not forget Jerusalem, and they kept alive the religion with all its customs and beliefs. However, some had avoided exile and, while continuing to live in Israel, had compromised their faith by intermarrying with people from Samaria who had moved into the country. When the exiled Jews returned to Israel after 70 years they refused to have any dealings with the Samaritans, who had stayed behind and polluted their faith.

From then on there was a deep division between the two peoples.

The Jews detested the Samaritans, a situation that still existed in the time of Jesus. Jesus proclaims in this parable that showing kindness and compassion, despite social and religious barriers, is both possible and commendable.

There is another element to this story: the fact that some enemies of Jesus called him a Samaritan. John’s Gospel tells us that, in a dispute over who Jesus was, the Jews said to him: ‘Aren’t we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?’

(John 8:48).

When Jesus introduced the 8

Salvationist 8 May 2021

Samaritan into the parable it would have immediately produced negative reactions among his listeners – not least from the expert in the Law who had asked who his neighbour was.

When Jesus asked him, ‘Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?’ (Luke 10:36), he could not bring himself to say it was the Samaritan. He answered simply: ‘The one who had mercy on him’ (v37).

Jesus realised that many of his listeners viewed him as a Samaritan.

As such, many considered him to be an outcast, not acceptable in their company. The expert in the Law, in a sense, was their spokesman.

His question was not a genuine enquiry but an effort to test Jesus and find fault in him.

The priest was travelling down the road from Jerusalem to Jericho and passed by on the other side. The Levite also passed by on the other side. But the Samaritan ‘came where the man was’ (v33). We are not told whether he was going to Jerusalem or Jericho, but he did not pass by.

He went to the man, saw him and had pity on him.

Here we have a statement that should give hope to every lost soul.

The victim was lying wounded, naked and half-dead. He was in no position to get up and look for someone to help him, but the Samaritan came to where he was, saw him and took pity on him.

This simple statement is the essence of the gospel. Not that we sought and found Jesus, but that Jesus sought and found us. In the salvation of every person it is Jesus who takes the initiative: ‘You did not choose me, but I chose you’ (John 15:16). In Luke 15 Jesus tells the three parables of the lost – pictures of the Lord taking the initiative. In the parables of the lost coin and the lost sheep, the woman and the shepherd look for the lost. Even in the parable of the lost son, when the son admits he would be better off with the Father, we read: ‘While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son’ (v20). This is the glory of the gospel. Despite our condition, it is God who takes the initiative out of love.

The lesson in this parable is that, when life is rough and we are left beaten, half-dead, without hope and unable to come to him, Jesus comes to us. He does not pass by; he comes to us with needed help.

LIEUT-COLONEL ELLIS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN NORWAY Next week Part 6: Go and do likewise

MORE REAR-M MIR RRO OR

‘I’LL FIGHT TO THE VERY END’ General John Larsson (Retired) shares fascinating glimpses of the early Army

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‘Bramwell, I have done what I could for N 9 May 1912, when William deepening tones, ‘Ah my boy, we God and the people with my eyes. Now Booth addressed 10,000 people don’t know what it means to be I shall do what I can for God and the in the Royal Albert Hall who had without a home.’ people without my eyes.’ gathered to mark his 83rd birthday, he ‘Yes, General, I follow.’

As his strength began to return, he referred to pending cataract surgery on ‘The homeless children. Oh, the wrote to his daughter Evangeline in his one remaining eye by quipping, ‘I am children! Bramwell, look after the America, ‘I am going into action once going into dry dock for repairs.’ The homeless. Promise me.’ more in the salvation war!’ He still Salvationists smiled and assumed he When the promise had been given, hoped to visit the USA and Canada. would soon be back. And when he something of the Founder’s whimsical But in August his health began to declaimed his battle cry, ‘I’ll fight to the humour returned as he added: ‘Mind! decline. Bramwell recounts that when very end!’, little did they realise that the If you don’t, I shall come back and very end was just three-andhaunt you!’

While women weep as they do now, I’ll fight; a-half months away.

Bramwell then enquired about While little children go hungry as they do now, I’ll fight; the second matter referred to, The eye operation was While men go to prison, in and out, in and out, performed two weeks later and the General replied: ‘I have as they do now, I’ll fight; by two surgeons from Guy’s been thinking very much during Hospital at William Booth’s the last few nights about China.

While there is a drunkard left, home in Hadley Wood. The I greatly regret that the Lord has While there is a poor lost girl upon the streets, early indications were that While there remains one dark soul without the light of God, not permitted me to raise our the surgery had been flag amongst that wonderful I’ll fight – I’ll fight to the very end! successful. But within days people. I want you to promise William Booth complications set in and it me that as soon as possible you soon became clear that his will get together a party of he called to see his father, William sight was irrevocably gone. It fell to suitable officers and unfurl our flag in Booth, seated in an armchair, said to Bramwell to tell his father. that wonderful land.’ him very quietly in what was to be their Bramwell went to the darkened And when the desired promise was final conversation, ‘Chief, can you spare bedroom and, as carefully as he could, given, the General stretched out his me a few moments? There are two broke the unhappy news to his father. hand, saying, ‘You promise? It’s a matters upon my mind. I want you to William Booth, in his own direct way, bargain, is it? Then give me your hand make me a promise concerning them. exclaimed, ‘You mean that I am blind?’ on it.’ And, clasping hands, father and ‘I want you to promise me that when ‘Well, General. I fear that we must son prayed together, and the elder man my voice is silent and I am gone from contemplate that.’ solemnly placed his hands upon the you, you will use such influence as you After a pause William Booth said, younger man’s head and blessed him. may possess with the Army to do more ‘I shall never see your face again?’

At 13 minutes past 10 on the evening of for the homeless of the world. The ‘No, probably not in this world.’

20 August 1912, William Booth was homeless men. Mind! I am not thinking The veteran’s hand crept along the promoted to Glory. The next morning word of this country only, but of all the lands.’ bedding to take hold of his son’s hand, went out from International Headquarters: ‘Yes, General,’ responded Bramwell, and holding it he said very calmly, ‘God ‘The General has laid down his sword.’

‘I understand.’ must know best!’

‘I’ll fight – I’ll fight to the very end!’ he After another pause he added, had said. And he did.

‘The homeless women’ – and, with Salvationist 8 May 2021

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FEATURE I The Salvation Army and me

What the people say T HE first thing many readers of Salvationist do when they get their copy is turn to ‘The Salvation Army and me’ on the back page. That’s not surprising, as people are often interested in what others think – and the responses to the questions asked each week have been interesting, inspiring, amusing and thought-provoking.

The series, which began in June 2018, has featured people linked to the Army in all kinds of ways: soldiers, adherents, officers, employees, volunteers and friends. The 121 people who have so far answered questions about themselves also represent a range of backgrounds, locations and ages, resulting in a cross section of The Salvation Army in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

Focusing on a few questions, the Salvationist team surveyed everyone’s responses…

WHAT ONE THING WOULD YOU CHANGE ABOUT THE ARMY? The answers were many and varied.

Here are just a few: O Its hierarchical structure, which is good for protection and governance but poor for spontaneity and flexibility.

O I would like to see more ethnic minority groups in leadership roles at corps and territorial levels.

O It would be great if we had the same confidence and zeal as the early-day Salvationists to share the gospel.

O I would ensure that every Army building operates on clean, renewable energy.

O No officer, regardless of their rank or position, would be able to serve in a headquarters appointment for more than five years at any one time without returning to serve as a corps, community or centre officer for a minimum of three years.

O Me! I cannot change anyone – all I can do is try to model what I preach and pray others follow.

O We need to be accepting and openminded to see change and to adapt the Army for our church to grow and develop in a positive way.

O Job titles you need to ask about to understand what they mean.

O The number of members – I’d double it. The Army is wonderful!

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Salvationist 8 May 2021

Peter Cursley (Long Eaton) ‘I would like there to be more street ministry and a return to open-air meetings’

Territorial Envoy Andrew Howe (Perth) ‘I want us all to have greater faith in what God can do through his people’

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE BIBLE PASSAGE? The most popular verse was Jeremiah 29:11, chosen by 13 people: ‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”’

Then came Psalm 23, chosen by 6 people: ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul’ (vv1–3).

In third place was Psalm 121:1 and 2, mentioned 5 times: ‘I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of Heaven and Earth.’

WHICH BIBLE FIGURE WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET? The apostle Paul came out on top (11 times) with a three-way tie for second place between Jesus, Mary and Moses (8 times each).

IF YOU COULD INVENT A GADGET, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Some of the more unusual answers were: O A lightbulb that produces darkness.

O A device that records dreams and then explains the meaning of them.

O A gadget that can detect and cure cancer for good.

O Glasses that repel water or have built-in window wipers.

O Something to keep all my socks in pairs.

O A see-through toaster, so you can see how well done your toast is.

O A selective time loop to take back hasty words before they could do any damage.

Lieutenant Lizette Williams (Basildon) ‘Something that can read a baby’s mind’

IF YOU COULD HAVE AN UNLIMITED SUPPLY OF ONE THING, WHAT WOULD IT BE? The top three were: chocolate (10 mentions); time (8); and patience (7). Other responses included love, money, coffee, happiness, energy, wisdom and Maynards Bassetts Liquorice Allsorts.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD OR MEAL? Roast dinner was the most popular (13 people), with a three-way tie for second place between seafood, a pasta dish and fish and chips (7 people each).

IF YOU COULD RID THE WORLD OF ONE THING, WHAT WOULD IT BE? The top three responses were poverty (14 mentions), greed (8) and hate (7). Others included injustice, racism, drugs, inequality, diseases, war, selfishness, violence and cancer.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HYMN OR WORSHIP SONG? Top of the chart was ‘In Christ Alone’ (SASB 861), chosen by 10 people, followed by ‘Cornerstone’ (Hillsong) chosen by 5 people, with a tie for third spot between ‘How Great Thou Art’ (SASB 49) and ‘Amazing Grace’ (SASB 453), chosen by 4 people each.

IF YOU COULD MEET ANY HISTORICAL FIGURE, WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE? Mother Teresa was the most popular choice (7 people), followed by Martin Luther King Jr (6 people) and Nelson Mandela (5 people). William and Catherine Booth were chosen by 4 people each, as were Winston Churchill and Florence Nightingale.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE KIND OF HOLIDAY? The top three were: holidays by the beach (15 people); holidays with or visiting family (13); and holidays with a historical element such as visiting museums or castles (8).

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? Some of the most interesting or unusual ones were: O Don’t put your finger in the hot toffee.

O Guard your integrity. Once that has gone, there is precious little left.

O The Lord doesn’t begin by asking about our ability, just our availability.

O The best way to solve your own problems is to help someone else.

O Wealth will not buy you health and happiness.

O It doesn’t matter how long a sermon lasts – but it should seem like 12 minutes.

O Give a bit, spend a bit, save a bit.

O Life is not a rehearsal. Make every day count.

IF YOU WERE TO CREATE A SLOGAN FOR YOUR LIFE, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Answers included: O Seek to understand more than to be understood.

O Just keep swimming.

O Take every opportunity you can, and don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith.

O Someone has to do something, it may as well be me.

O Shut up and listen!

O Do something good every day and try not to get found out.

O I really should have started this earlier.

O I’m not very clever, but I can lift heavy things!

O Laugh and the world laughs with you.

O Slow and steady plodder who will get there in the end.

O Everything will be all right in the end. If it is not all right, it is not the end.

O The next person you meet is very important.

O Measure goodness by what and whom you embrace, create and include.

O Knowledge speaks but wisdom listens.

Caroline McBurney (Dundonald) ‘Don’t dwell on the past, look to the future’

Ray Saunders (Cardiff Ely) ‘I’ll always try to be there for you’ Lilian Bale (Guernsey) ‘Be myself and do my best at everything’

If you would like to feature in ‘The Salvation Army and me’, ask for a questionnaire by emailing salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk or writing to The Editor, Salvationist, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN

Salvationist 8 May 2021

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IN THE

ZONE Innovative and fa Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory

How well do you know The Salvation Army’s Europe Z We give an overview of the Norway, Iceland and the F

Alcohol-free Day

Såpa car wash

A Christmas food van

Street nurses

C

OMMISSIONERS Hanna Ouchterlony and George Scott Railton, with Staff-Captains Albert and Jennie Orsborn, began Salvation Army work in Oslo (then Kristiania) in January 1888. Work started in Iceland in May 1895 and spread to the Færoes in October 1924.

Today, the territory has a wide variety of corps, outreach activities and community and social services. They aim to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in his name without discrimination.

A new strategy approved in October last year provides guidelines to see this become a reality. On a local level it describes how regular meetings and strategic conversations can help teams find solutions and ensure targeted efforts to carry out the overall mission. The same principles and tools also apply at regional and territorial levels.

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Salvationist 8 May 2021

The Army has a proud history and a visible and much-loved presence in Iceland and the Færoes, which are now organised as two separate districts under the Programme Department, rather than as one division.

In Iceland the first indoor worship meetings since June last year were held on the second Sunday of February. A Spanish-speaking meeting was followed by an Icelandic-speaking meeting and a joint lunch. A group of about 30 people from Venezuela are in the process of integrating into the corps in Reykjavík.

This was also the first meeting in the new multipurpose building, which will contain a corps, welfare centre, Hertex (second-hand) shop, café and offices.

The property is a great investment as a place where people of all ages will find joy, belonging and fellowship, and can meet God through the activities and people there.

There are many social services initiatives throughout the territory, each one making a difference. Sammen (Together) is a corps-based youth outreach programme originating in Oslo.

It is now spread across the territory and gives people with backgrounds from all around the world the opportunity to meet for fellowship and friendship. They learn about Jesus and take part in a range of activities, including sports and music.

For many of the parents and carers it is also an opportunity to meet with other adults, build networks, learn about language and culture and share everyday life with all its ups and downs.

During the pandemic, many of the participants have been visited at home.

Team members have kept in touch with families via social media, organising online competitions and conversations.

At Haugenstua, Oslo, the Army has rented an old farmhouse for hosting esports (competitive video gaming),

* Photos and events described on these pages may have occurred before current coronavirus lockdown and safety guidelines

aithful

THE TERRITORY AT A GLANCE

4,263 soldiers

Zone?

Færoes Territory*

1,787 adherents 46 junior soldiers 340 officers (143 active, 197 retired)

19 envoys 8 cadets 2,011 employees 103 corps 293 outposts

Sammen youth outreach

Street clinic video games and more. This relatively new initiative is part of the strategic process of moving into new areas of the city. Here the focus is to provide an extensive list of activities to young people between the ages of 16 and 30. This project has even led to an Army team playing in the national esport league.

Every year the Army arranges four holiday camps during the summer for underprivileged children and young people. These are a welcome respite for families who lack the networks and finances to go on holiday. In 2020 these had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Instead, The Salvation Army locally offered holiday activities and events in 25 locations around Norway. Activities varied from place to place but included hammock, cabin, tent and fishing trips, activity parks, rowing and boat courses and much more.

As a result, the number of participants has quadrupled from 2019.

Every year since 2011 the territory has promoted Alcohol-free Day on 8 June, also known as Abstinence Day. On this day corps and centres shed light on the effects of alcohol and drugs and encourage the public to reflect on their own situations. The response has been overwhelming. The theme engages thousands of people each year as members and friends of the Army meet people on the streets, serving soft drinks and handing out information. The territory also takes the opportunity to raise political issues related to alcohol and drug policies.

Although these are serious issues, the territory’s approach is a positive one.

Every year, passers-by meet the Army’s ambassadors and enthusiasts who wish them a good Alcohol-free Day and a pleasant summer.

Såpa (Soap) is a professional car wash facility offering job opportunities.

It operates as a regular car wash while

also training people with complex problems such as addictions or mental health challenges and those recovering from human trafficking. Såpa is already established in Tønsberg and Oslo, and all employees receive professional training, employment contracts and orderly working conditions. The requirement is simply that they turn up sober for work. It is also a way for the territory to address human trafficking and the underground economy.

In February 2020 The Salvation Army opened Norway’s second street clinic.

The first opened in Oslo in 2004 and the new one is situated in the west coast city of Bergen. The street clinic is a health and care service for people with severe drug addictions, who have serious and complex health problems that are not taken care of in the established health service.

Since March 2020, nurses from the street clinic have taken to the streets to offer coronavirus testing. People with addictions and mental health challenges can get tested through the public health service, but many find it easier to go to the nurses they already know at the clinic.

Recent months have been especially challenging. Covid-19 restrictions have impacted the way that corps reach out and come together. But many have responded actively and creatively, developing new and exciting digital formats for devotion, praise and celebration.

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INTERVIEW

Well versed in the Bible Lieut-Colonel Ian Barr speaks to War Cry staff writer Emily Bright about his book on the Scriptures

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O we really need the Old Testament? Why are there so many different translations of the Bible? These are among the topics tackled in Big Questions for Small Groups: The Bible, the latest publication from Shield Books.

Its author, Lieut-Colonel Ian Barr, has served as a Salvation Army officer alongside his wife, Christine, since 1973. He also taught biblical studies at William Booth College, where he was on the staff for 13 years. He explains that while the book tackles big questions about the Scriptures, it’s also a means of sharing his love of God’s word.

‘I wanted to reflect on my own experience of the Bible coming alive for me,’ he explains. ‘I’ve always been interested in it and was an active Salvationist but, at the age of 16, I discovered that the Bible was a living document that God spoke through.

‘Our corps officer was giving away free copies of Mark’s Gospel in the Good News Bible translation, and I took one home and read it. That opened my eyes. It felt easier to understand and I saw Jesus in a fairly human context.

Jesus became contemporary to me, although he was a historical figure.’

Based on his own experiences, Ian recommends that new readers of Scripture head to the New Testament.

‘I would start with the Gospels, not Genesis,’ he says. ‘For a new Christian, without any preconceptions, I’d advise them to begin with Mark’s Gospel.’

Ian’s book is not just intended for new Christians though.

‘Folk who have knowledge of some of the Bible stories might appreciate an opportunity to think about the structure of the Bible,’ he adds. ‘They might like to explore another context for the Gospels, and why there are four different ones.

‘Mark’s Gospel gives an overview of 14

Salvationist 8 May 2021

the life and teaching of Jesus. Then Matthew and Luke bring insights that were already there, but which Mark doesn’t actually record,’ he explains.

‘And while Mark and Luke deal with Jesus as a man, whom they discover to be divine, John starts with the premise that Jesus is God.’ Some Christians might wonder why, given that the New Testament is about encountering Jesus, we need the Old Testament. Books such as Leviticus and Numbers can prove a stumbling block to engaging with the Bible. Ian explains: ‘The Old Testament lays the groundwork in introducing the big themes of creation and redemption.

Jesus is then introduced by John as

being present at creation and by Matthew as the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy. Old Testament stories and prophecies are necessary if we are to understand the four Gospels and Jesus in the context of the Jewish faith.’

Ian offers sage advice for those seeking to unlock such prophecies: ‘You have to read prophecy in the context of those who first heard it, what was happening in the world when the prophet uttered these words, and re-evaluate it in the light of what we have discovered about Jesus, and how that knowledge casts light on prophecy.

Then, we need to think about what it means to us today.’

Ian adds that we should value the books of wisdom in the Bible, such as Psalms and Proverbs, which are ‘just as valid and valuable’ as prophecy and history: ‘They are reflections on worship, on people’s experience of God, the nature of faith and God’s activity in the world.’

While we may baulk at the reprisals for breaking God’s Law in the Old Testament, Ian says that the teachings on the Law remain an important part of the Bible: ‘The Ten Commandments tell us what God is like, and how we are to live as a society and reflect his spiritual and moral nature. Nowadays we tend to lean far too much on the individual, but commandments four to ten are to do with how we order society. The Ten Commandments form the basis of every legal system in the Western world.’

Ian hopes his book will help readers realise that reading the Bible isn’t a huge and mystifying task: ‘You can come with confidence knowing that in the Bible, you have the opportunity to encounter Jesus himself.’

Big Questions for Small Groups: The Bible is available from sps-shop.com priced £3 or on Amazon Kindle priced £2 O

VIEW POINT

We need to pray against racism Major Marjory Parrott shares some lessons she’s learnt about responding to racism

A

FEW weeks ago we celebrated Holy Week. The Gospel writers record that, during that time, Jesus cleansed the Temple, quoting God’s words as spoken by the prophet Isaiah: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’ (Isaiah 56:7).

These are not perhaps the words that come to mind when we think about anger at racism and how we should pray. Yet they are useful words.

Jesus was angry because the actions of the religious leaders – or what they had condoned – were stopping other people coming close to God. By turning the outer court of the Gentiles into a marketplace, the religious leaders were preventing the Gentile people from worshipping God. They didn’t see it as a problem – and that was part of the problem.

Some religious people could still prepare for worship and go to worship farther in the Temple precincts. They possibly didn’t even think how their behaviour affected others; they were probably congratulating themselves for being good worshippers.

Jesus saw things differently. From what we read in the Gospels, Jesus didn’t get angry often. But when he did, it was generally with those who should have known better – those who should have had eyes to see who was unable to worship God, the reasons why and who should have been bothered by that.

When we come to pray about racism, we also need to start with ourselves.

Don’t misunderstand me – it is vitally important that we pray about the big things as well. We need to pray against systemic racism, and against apathy – the acceptance that things are

just the way they are. We need to pray against fear and ignorance. When we don’t know people or understand them, it is easier to sense fear – but fear leads to distrust, and distrust leads to hate. We also need to pray against the ugliness and violence that lead to the deaths of people of colour, wherever in the world they might be.

In some respects, that is the easy part.

You see, even having prayed, we can still be part of the problem.

I have only come to understand this personally in recent months. Because I have been fortunate in not suffering from racism as much as others, I have let those who have been affected, and have responded passionately, get on with making the noise. That was until God challenged me and made me see the importance of standing alongside those who are suffering. God made me see that there are really only two sides in this battle: we are either part of the problem or part of the solution.

It is not enough for anyone to say, ‘I am not a racist.’

Each of us needs to

say: ‘I am not a racist, and here is how I am going to stand alongside you and challenge injustice. Here is how I am going to make a difference.’

So, we need to pray for ourselves as individuals, asking that God will reveal any attitudes and behaviours that we need to repent of and repair. We need to pray that he will not just make us sorry but give us courage to act. We also need to pray that God will open our eyes to see who isn’t being included and who is being prevented from being included.

And we need to pray that God will make us uncomfortable with the way things are and make us courageous enough to do our part.

As well as this, we need to pray for our church, The Salvation Army. Our prayer should include all the things that are mentioned above and more. We need to pray that, as a Movement, we will be brave enough to admit where we have gone wrong in the past and that we will repent of it and repair it. We need to pray for wisdom, not just for our leaders but for every one of us. It takes effort as well as courage to do things differently, to make the changes that need to come.

And we need to pray that we will do the right thing – not because it is suddenly popular, but because we are called to show God’s love in action.

Racism does not have to affect us personally for us to need to pray and to act. It just needs to affect someone, anyone, who is equally made in God’s image.

MAJOR PARROTT IS CORPS OFFICER, SWADLINCOTE

Salvationist 8 May 2021

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BIBLE STUDY

Major Julie Johnson explores the battle of wills in the first of three studies by the Candidates Unit

JONAH

Q

UESTIONS such as ‘Will you accept this gift?’ or ‘Will you marry me?’ can be music to our ears. Most likely we would be willing to respond. But when God asks, ‘Will you?’, the question might not be answered quite so easily. It can then become a battle of wills.

When God asks, ‘Will you?’ our answer might be: ‘What will...?’ or ‘What if...?’ or ‘How will...?’

The Book of Jonah begins: ‘The word of the Lord came to Jonah’ (v1). This was not the first time God had spoken to him. Jonah was an experienced prophet who knew what God’s voice sounded like (see 2 Kings 14:25).

However, when God called Jonah with new instructions, he was not willing to listen and chose to take a different direction instead.

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

by Major Lynda Levis

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Salvationist 8 May 2021

QUESTION O How might you respond if God were very specific about something he wanted you to do?

will of God on a convenient ‘ship’. We can come up with all sorts of excuses for wanting to go our own way or doing our own thing.

God called Jonah to go to the city of Nineveh and lead its citizens to repentance. Jonah, however, was having none of it.

Beyond his realisation that God is gracious (see 4:2), we don’t know what his excuses were. There was no love lost between the Israelites and the Ninevites.

One thing was certain – Jonah was not willing to respond to the call of God. He was, however, willing to run away, to board a ship and cross treacherous seas in the opposite direction. He was willing to be thrown overboard. In other words, Jonah was willing to do almost anything other than to obey the voice of God. It is the easiest thing to sail out of the

QUESTION O Have you known a time when you interpreted a convenient ‘ship’ as God’s plan, which then gave you the perfect excuse for sailing out of his will?

Many people learn the hard way. They run away from God and find they are heading for a storm, not outwardly but deep inside, and they find themselves fighting against the will of God. Jonah’s convenient ship was stormtossed and he underwent some soulsearching before he found the calm of God’s perfect will.

For three dark days, the Lord sent Jonah to the school of adversity in a most unusual classroom: the belly of

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1 and 2)

I will offer up my life in spirit and truth,/ Pouring out the oil of love as my worship to you./ In surrender I must give my every part;/ Lord, receive the sacrifice of a broken heart.

(SASB 371)

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

(Hebrews 13:15 and 16)

a large fish. There, Jonah learnt some important lessons. First, nothing can drown out God’s call. Second, there is no getting away from God. God is everywhere (see Psalm 139).

QUESTION O When has distress, danger or fear brought you to your knees before God and helped you realign your will with his?

God called Jonah a second time. This time, the unwilling runaway became a willing messenger. Jonah said to God: ‘I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good’ (Jonah 2:9).

We could say that Jonah graduated from his ‘school’ with a diploma in mission responsibility. His journey to Nineveh provided him ample time to reflect and, when he entered the city, his simple message had a powerful

impact. The people repented. God’s heart softened and everyone was saved.

Jonah, however, was angry. He thought God should not spare evil people. He learnt again that God’s mercy always outruns his judgement.

Deep within, Jonah already knew this and, struggling to align his heart with the compassionate and forgiving heart of God, he cried: ‘O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my own country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster’ (Jonah 4:2 English Standard Version).

The people of Nineveh experienced the essence of God’s nature and Jonah learnt that no one can sink so low as to be beyond forgiveness.

QUESTION O When have you been quick to judge and slow to love, and failed to show someone grace and mercy?

‘Be the change’ is the Candidates Unit strapline that has inspired many people to respond to the call of God to spiritual leadership. The theme for this year’s Candidates Sunday (16 May) is ‘Be Willing’.

QUESTIONS O What are you struggling with that prevents you from being willing to say yes to God? O Will you be willing?

MAJOR JOHNSON IS ASSISTANT TERRITORIAL CANDIDATES DIRECTOR

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

No longer in bondage, my freedom I’ll use/ My Master to serve in the way he shall choose;/ To work or to witness, to go or remain,/ His smile of approval my infinite gain.

(SASB 399)

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

(Colossians 3:17)

Lord of all power, I give you my will,/ In joyful obedience your tasks to fulfil./ Your bondage is freedom, your service is song,/ And, held in your keeping, my weakness is strong.

(SASB 380)

I will sacrifice a thankoffering to you and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfil my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.

(Psalm 116:17 and 18)

Prayer Lord, may each offering that I bring to you be a sacrifice of praise, given willingly and joyfully, and reflecting the spirit in which the abundance of your love is poured out on me.

Salvationist 8 May 2021

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RE R EFLE FLEC FL ECT TIIION ON ON REFLECTION

Messages from marigolds

Enabled member Annmarie Batty shares thoughts that blossomed while reflecting on the flowers in her garden

W

HEN my son was small he liked two kinds of flowers: snapdragons, which he loved to watch bees enter, and marigolds.

Marigolds were his favourite. He loved their colour and cheerfulness, and they reminded him of his local football team, Hull City.

I could grow snapdragons easily, but when I put marigolds into the ground I found out my son was not the only one who loved them: so did the slugs and snails. Whether they were African marigolds or French marigolds, I was left with just a few green stalks and some well-fed pests.

I couldn’t find a way to deal with my hungry pest problem organically, other than grow fewer palatable plants, which meant a marigold-less garden. But still I wished I could grow marigolds.

Then one year I went to the Enabled Summer School at National Star College near Cheltenham. The flower beds were glorious. One circular display was a mass of marigolds. The presence of 18

Salvationist 8 May 2021

slugs and snails was evident when it rained, but these plants were thriving.

I spoke to one of the gardeners, and he told me to grow English marigolds – Calendula officinalis, known as pot marigolds. So that’s what I did for the rest of the summer, and I had glorious, bright blooms.

When winter came I appeared to lose all my plants but, determined to have marigolds again, I bought a packet of seeds and sowed them in a window box.

I would look after them and nurse them, and perhaps be more successful.

The seeds grew, and I ended up with a window box full of various shades of marigolds. But I also had marigolds growing where the previous plants had been. And marigolds in my strawberry patch. And in my ornamental tub.

During the summer their bright orange flowers greeted me in the garden and spoke to me of so much. They reminded me of my son, who has had to socially distance himself from me while I have had health problems.

They reminded me of the wonders of creation, and the skill and artistry of our heavenly Father. ‘Look how the wild flowers grow: they do not work or make clothes for themselves. But I tell you that not even King Solomon with all his wealth had clothes as beautiful as one of these flowers’ (Matthew 6:28 and 29 Good News Bible).

They also made me aware that, although they grow in my garden, and even though I do the watering and the weeding, I am not the one in control.

The sun and rain are sent by my heavenly Father, and only he knows where the wind is blowing the scattering seed. ‘You are my Lord; all the good things I have come from you… You give me all I need; my future is in your hands’ (Psalm 16: 2 and 5 GNB).

The marigolds also spoke to me of hope, because my son’s favourite flowers remind me of another son. ‘He is the one through whom God created the universe, the one whom God has chosen to possess all things at the end. He reflects the brightness of God’s glory and is the exact likeness of God’s own being, sustaining the universe with his powerful word. After achieving forgiveness for human sins, he sat down in Heaven at the right-hand side of God, the Supreme Power’ (Hebrews 1:2 and 3 GNB).

Even a bad patch of soil may be hiding seeds that will in the fullness of time germinate, grow and bloom. Jesus told a parable about that: ‘The Kingdom of God is like this. A man scatters seed in his field. He sleeps at night, is up and about during the day, and all the while the seeds are sprouting and growing. Yet he does not know how it happens. The soil itself makes the plants grow and bear fruit; first the tender stalk appears, then the ear, and finally the ear full of corn’ (Mark 4:26–28 GNB).

In these uncertain days, we need to focus on what is important. A marigold’s job is to bloom then make seeds, thus revealing its Creator’s glory. Our job is to further the Kingdom of God. The gardener at the college showed me how to grow marigolds. We can reveal to people our loving Saviour. Perhaps we should do that more often.

ANNMARIE SOLDIERS AT HULL ICEHOUSE

MEDITATION

At the edge of time

by Major Alistair Dawson

I

LOVE the phrase ‘at the edge of time’. It represents an area of life that is above and beyond all that I know and accept as real. The edge of time is a viewing point from all that we know, and prepares us for the open mystery that is yet to be.

Even so, I simply have to realise that: There are depths of love that I cannot know Till I cross the narrow sea; There are heights of joy that I may not reach Till I rest in peace with thee.

(SASB 586)

Is that a frightening thought?

You take an art form, say a beautiful painting, and beyond that artistry is the creative genius who was able to imagine and then create the painting.

Similarly, all nature magnifies the Lord!

That to me is a frightening thought, for God’s creation is so intricate, delicate and clearly defined that I would hate to defile it. As an old song says: The world looks very beautiful, And full of joy to me; The sun shines out in glory On everything I see: I know I shall be happy While in the world I stay, For I will follow Jesus, I will follow Jesus – All the way.

All the way? And why not! For whatever the future holds, I’m in his hands.

The mind of the artist can be revealed by what the artist creates, and so the depths of love and the heights of joy are all there, ready to be revealed by God. They have their place within our destiny, for every picture has to be completed – and who better than God, who knows the form of our life, to add the final touches?

John Lennon sang, ‘Imagine there’s no Heaven,/ It’s easy if you try.’ But try imagining there is a Heaven. How easy is that? If only we could go beyond the edge of time, beyond the certainty of what we know. If only.

And yet, quite simply, Jesus died into God. His final prayer was: ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit’ (Luke 23:46). If we are able to echo those words, we can be sure that all that is good and beautiful within our lives will be placed within his creative love and care. There is so much good in our lives that longs for fulfilment. There are prayers that need to be answered, hugs that need to be accepted and love that needs to be expressed.

There has to be a Heaven, there has to be a completion, there has to be life on the other side. For at the edge of time, and in God’s eternity, the creative Word must also be the Eternal Word.

My son, Ashley, helped produce a recording that included his cornet solo and arrangement of the song, ‘As the Deer’ (SASB 571). As I’m ironing, there

in our kitchen with all doors shut, I listen to and share the recording of that lovely prayer. It is a prayer we share together.

As the deer pants for the water So my soul longs after you.

You alone are my heart’s desire And I long to worship you.

We are limited by the edge of time, but we are certainly not limited by the Creator’s imagination and artistry. As Philippians 1:6 says, ‘I am sure that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished’ (The Living Bible). God is far more interested in what we are becoming than in what we are doing. As a character in one of George MacDonald’s books says, ‘I want to help you grow as beautiful as God meant you to be when he thought of you first.’

In this quiet moment, still, before your throne, Conscious of your presence, knowing I am known.

In this quiet moment set my spirit free; In this quiet moment, make a better me!

(SASB 595) We may be at the edge of time, our time, but we are also at the beginning of of God’s time – and in that time he is able to do abundantly more than all that we ask or think.

MAJOR DAWSON LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN ST AUSTELL Salvationist 8 May 2021

19

PREVIEW

Thy Kingdom Come T HY Kingdom Come is a global prayer movement that invites Christians around the world to pray from Ascension Day (13 May) to Pentecost (23 May) for more people to come to know Jesus.

After the Ascension the disciples gathered to devote themselves to prayer while they waited for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Like them, our reliance on the gift of the Holy Spirit is total, because on our own we can do nothing for God’s Kingdom.

Through the centuries Christians have gathered at that time to pray for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Thy Kingdom Come picks up this tradition. During the days between Ascension and Pentecost, it is hoped that everyone who takes part will deepen their own relationship with Jesus Christ, pray for five friends or family members to come to faith in him and pray for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to make their witness effective.

Over the years more and more worshipping communities have dedicated these 11 days to pray ‘Come Holy Spirit’.

What started in 2016 as an invitation from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York to members of the Church of England has grown into an international and ecumenical call to prayer. Christians around the world have taken part in praying ‘Come Holy Spirit’, so that friends and family, neighbours and colleagues might come to faith in Jesus Christ.

Thy Kingdom Come embraces diversity and differences as individuals, families and churches are encouraged to pray in their own way.

‘In praying “thy Kingdom come”, we all commit to playing our part in the renewal of the nations and the transformation of communities,’ says the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

Early in March more than 1,000 people tuned into the virtual resources launch for Thy Kingdom Come 2021. Audiences from across the globe, ranging from 20

Salvationist 8 May 2021

Slovakia to Sri Lanka, Jamaica to Jersey and Korea to Canada tuned in for the event. Representatives from different denominations were present, including The Salvation Army.

Various prayer materials for children and adults were unveiled at the launch.

While the commitment to prayer for evangelisation remains at the heart of Thy Kingdom Come, the team have created resources designed to refresh, encourage and inspire worshipping communities, families and individuals who may have struggled with the idea of church at home.

Emma Buchan, Thy Kingdom Come project director, comments: ‘I am excited about Thy Kingdom Come this year as we have been so intentional in our planning and thinking to produce resources that help the Church at this time. Where it has been such a challenging year for everyone, we really want Thy Kingdom Come to inspire people in their relationships with Christ, to gather those who have found online church challenging and to resource children and young people in fun, spiritually nourishing ways. We hope and pray Pentecost is a time of great joy after what has been such a challenging season.’

Events of all shapes and sizes take place during Thy Kingdom Come, including 24-7 virtual prayer rooms, family prayer, online church gatherings and more. Despite the current circumstance the church can still unite in worship and prayer for the empowering of the Holy Spirit for effective witness.

Whether you have joined in Thy Kingdom Come before or not, you are invited to take part – along with Christians in churches from more than 80 different denominations and traditions in 172 countries around the world.

To find out more, register at thykingdomcome.global

O

Available resources O The Cheeky Pandas video series for children – 11 programmes packed with Bible stories, worship songs, prayers, animation and interviews with special guests, including ng Bear Grylls and CBeebies presenter Gemma Hunt.

O A series of 11 youth video reflections from young, influential Christians such as rapper and author Guvna B, worship leader Elle Limebear and former rugby player Jamie Jones-Buchanan.

O Printed and digital versions of the Prayer Journal and Novena, a book of devotional prayers.

O Videos for each of the 11 days featuring, among others, Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin and frontline pandemic workers.

O An app, available in nine languages, which includes audio content from 24-7 Prayer’s Lectio 365 and reflections from Pete Greig, Archbishop Justin Welby and others.

TAKE ON

CHALLENGE 750 Take on Challenge 750 to support The Salvation Army’s food security projects – feeding hope to farmers from generation to generation.

!

" "

#

# $"

% % & & !

For farmers in Zimbabwe, a good crop means they can feed their families. Yet as the changing climate makes weather unpredictable, some tried and trusted methods of growing crops have begun failing small-scale farmers.

The Salvation Army is providing training in simple and sustainable farming techniques to help farmers make the best use of their land and overcome food insecurity.

Challenge 750: Choose your challenge 750-minute dance-athon/bake-athon ◦ Get sponsored to dance the night away in a living room disco, or have a non-stop baking day! You could take part with others and share the experience over Zoom or live-stream your challenge on social media.

750 hours without... ◦ Could you give up your favourite treat for just over a month? Invite friends and family to sponsor you to live without chocolate/coffee/sweets/TV for 750 hours.

750 miles in a month ◦ Team up as a community group or corps to run/walk/skip 750 miles in a month. Each person can take as many miles as they can manage and add their miles to the team total.

750x... ◦ Could you do 750 sit-ups or star jumps in a certain timeframe? Or plant 750 seeds in your garden?

Create your own challenge and raise money to support The Salvation Army’s work tackling food insecurity around the world.

• • • •

How you can help £35 could provide seeds and small tools for trainees £145 could provide training for five small-scale farmers £320 could create a demonstration plot for training £750 could provide tools to a group of 50 farmers

• • • •

Join the team Set up your own JustGiving page to keep track of your donations and link it to the Feeding Hope campaign: justgiving.com/campaign/FeedingHopeHelpingHand2021

#FeedingHope #Challenge750 salvationarmy.org.uk/feedinghope Salvationist 8 May 2021

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

WHAT’S ON

APPOINTED Effective 29 April O Major Beverley Lloyd, finance officer, THQ

DEVELOP PODCAST In the latest Develop podcast Liz Hall and Hayley Still highlight Challenge 750 – a fundraising campaign supporting this year’s Helping-Hand Appeal, which addresses food insecurity.

O Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud or Google Podcasts

LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O CSM Luke Greenwood, Worthing O Asst CSM Richard Howlett, Worthing O Asst CSM Janet Bannister, Worthing O CT Amanda Greenwood, Worthing O Asst CT Duncan Heward, Worthing O Asst CT Keith Wilkinson, Worthing O YPSM Toni Carrington-Moule, Worthing O Adherents Secretary Bryan McDaniel, Worthing O Asst CS Mel Gunn, Worthing O Spiritual Life Development Secretary Commissioner Gillian Downer, Worthing WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Colonels Derek and Mary Elvin (20 May) O Lieut-Colonels David and Doriel Phillips (20 May) O Colonels Bramwell and Ruth Booth (20 May) Golden O Majors Christine and Geoff Parkin (22 May) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Beryl Warren (90 on 21 May) O Major Joyce Holmes (85 on 21 May) O Captain Alice Middleton (85 on 22 May) O Major Robert Lake (85 on 22 May) O Major Trevor Smith (85 on 23 May) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Bandsman Colin Handford, Reading West, on 24 April O Lieut-Colonel Alan Atherton from Royal Berkshire Hospital on 27 April O Vera Garratt, Edinburgh Gorgie BEREAVED O Songster Valerie Handford, Reading West, of her husband bandsman Colin Handford, Andrea Robinson and Louise Hill, both Maidenhead, of their father O Gill Haylett and Stephen Atherton, both Reading Central, Alistair Atherton, Paignton, and Catherine Atherton of their father Lieut-Colonel Alan Atherton 22

Salvationist 8 May 2021

TRIBUTES LIEUT-COLONEL SONIA FAIRCLOUGH SONIA grew up in a Salvation Army family and attended Colston’s Girls’ School in Bristol.

She worked at Lloyds Bank before entering the training college in 1957. Before her marriage, Sonia was stationed in charge of Penshaw Corps. She married her husband, Colin, in 1961 and they were appointed to Tow Law in the northeast of England.

In 1964 Sonia and the family set sail with their children, Dawn and Piers, for the island of St Helena, where they took charge of two corps and an outpost.

Initially, they conducted 26 senior and young people’s meetings a week. After three and a half years, they were appointed to Port Elizabeth Central Corps, South Africa.

In 1970, Sonia and Colin were appointed as the training leaders in the Philippines, where Sarita was born. After four years they made their way back to Africa to take charge of Salisbury Citadel Corps, Rhodesia. The war of independence was in progress and continued throughout their stay. During their time there Tara was added to the family.

After homeland furlough, they were sent to the corps in the cathedral city of Canterbury.

In 1983 Colin was appointed to the Family Tracing Service, and Sonia engaged in various activities. She spoke at women’s meetings and was a retired officers visitor. She was a tutor at the training college and represented The Salvation Army on the Women’s National Commission, a government body that reviewed women’s issues.

She visited Salvation Army social homes in the London area and was acting chair of the Bromley Bible Society Support Group,

raising funds for the group with help from corps folk, who supported her well.

In retirement, Sonia enrolled in watercolour classes, which gave her much pleasure. She continued to share her faith whenever the opportunity arose. – DN ALEX WILLIAMS, GOVAN ALEX was born in Glasgow in 1942. He was proud to be a member of Govan Corps and serve God in the band and songsters for more than 60 years. He was widely known as a trombone soloist, including in retirement when he played with the Scotland Fellowship Band.

A strong and determined man, Alex remained committed to every activity he undertook. He had a ministry of encouragement and many people benefited from the kindness shown through his actions and conversations. Every Sunday morning he would move around the congregation shaking hands with everyone and making people feel welcome.

In his retirement he led a full life and was active with his brass bands, market garden and his chickens and ducks. He was a well-known, highly respected character in his local community throughout his life.

Alex leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Clare, and Bethany, Luke, Kathy, Maya, Sebastian and Solomon. – DG ROBERT OTI, WOOD GREEN ROBERT was born in Ghana in 1937, the first of ten brothers and eight sisters. His parents were the late Nana Kwabena Oti, of the Ejisu Onwe royal family in the Ashanti region, and Obaa Panin Akosua Agyeman.

He sailed around the world as a chef for the Black Star Line shipping company.

Originally a Methodist, Robert became a member of Wood Green Corps in his later years. He was always very smartly dressed but this did not stop him from offering to move the chairs or help in any way.

Robert had a powerful testimony and his faith sustained him through the ups and downs of life. He was an inspiration to everyone and is dearly missed by his church fellowship, family and friends. – PK

ADVERTS

Audit Committee member – voluntary role The Salvation Army Trustee Company – SATCo – is the corporate trustee of the trusts through which The Salvation Army operates in the UK. It is chaired by the territorial commander and is comprised of ten senior Salvation Army officers and five independent experts. The Audit Committee reports to, and is a committee of, SATCo. The committee, which meets four times a year, comprises four external experts with a remit to review The Salvation Army’s internal and external audit arrangements and consider reports issued by internal and external auditors including the annual financial statements. We are seeking an additional member for the committee; the role is unpaid but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Individuals must be supportive of the Christian ethos of The Salvation Army and the following demonstrable skills and expertise are required: O A strong financial background, preferably with audit

committee and/or board level finance experience, perhaps as a finance director of a large charity O Familiarity with current Charity Commission and SORP reporting requirements O Skills to challenge in a constructive and insightful manner O Independent and balanced judgement O Knowledge of risk management and statutory compliance obligations O Understanding of risks such as safeguarding, long-term revenue generation and fraud If you are interested in applying for this voluntary role, please email your CV to the company secretary office at Territorial Headquarters using this email: elisabeth.keene@salvationarmy.org.uk

ADVERTS

RECRUITING NOW CHAPLAIN WESTON-SUPER-MARE

Job summary The Salvation Army believes that all people have unique and absolute value regardless of their age, cognitive or physical ability. Spiritual care is an important part of the care provided at Dewdown House residential care home where we improve the quality of the lives of older people by providing excellent person-centred services. The chaplain is a key member of the team – supporting residents, relatives and staff, embodying the ethos and values of The Salvation Army.

Key responsibilities With training and support, you will be responsible for the delivery of the spiritual programme. This includes, but is not limited to, arranging and leading meaningful, relevant and dementia-friendly weekday and Sunday worship and ensuring Christian festivals are celebrated. You will work alongside the home manager to ensure that the Christian ethos is maintained throughout the general management of the home.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate: O An understanding and empathy for older people and their needs O Be an active Salvationist O A good communicator and experienced at leading public worship O Willing to engage in training

SALARY £24,024 per annum WORKING HOURS 40 hours per week – will consider part-time for the right candidate; may include unsocial hours CONTRACT Permanent DETAILS 25 days’ annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part-time); a contributory pension scheme; season ticket loan; an employee assistance programme CLOSING DATE 20 May INTERVIEW DATE 28 May

This role has an occupational requirement that the successful candidate must be a committed and practising uniformed Salvationist

For further details and to apply please visit salvationarmy.org.uk/jobs Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK and PVG Disclosure. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality in the workplace.

Exxperience a holiday with a difference visiting the

Holy Land

2 –12 May 2022 For details contact Les Fletcher (tour leader)

07710727626

witth

Churches Together n On Pilgrimage

Please note that soldiers’ and adherents’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion. For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 8 May 2021

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…

I want to sing it, I want to shout it, I want to tell you all about it; The love of Jesus, the love of Jesus; It brings the glory to my soul!

(SASB B 370)

’’’

What is your favourite meal?

Scampi, chips and salad.

ASSISTANT CT CATHIE ROBINSON Farcet

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘I alone know the plans I have for you’ (Jeremiah 29:11 Good News Bible).

God gave me this verse at a difficult time in my life.

How did you first come into contact with the Army?

My first contact was through grandparents and a school friend.

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

Noah. I’d ask him how he got all those animals in the ark.

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

Hot pants from the Sixties.

What made you want to become a soldier?

It was a natural progression from the junior corps.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘I Believe That God the Father’ (SASB B 34).

What one thing would you change about the Army?

To stop losing traditional values.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

I enjoy a holiday by the seaside.

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

I would be Rose from Titanic, who was played by Kate Winslet.

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

William Booth, to get his take on today’s Army.

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?

Ferrero Rocher.

Apart from English, what languages do you know?

I am learning to speak Welsh.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Baking.

I believe that God the Father Can be seen in God the Son, In the gentleness of Jesus Love for all the world is shown.

Though men crucify their Saviour, And his tenderness rebuff, God is love, the cross is saying, Calvary is proof enough.

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

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

Did you have a nickname growing up?

Cathie Cupcake.

What do you do in your spare time?

I read and study.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

The Joystrings EP, Have Faith in God (1965), which included the song, ‘I Want to Sing It’ (SASB 370).

Is there something about life or the world you’ve never understood?

Why we find it necessary to go into space.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

Greed.

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

Mother Teresa.

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

Something to do the dusting.

If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be?

‘Pretty Woman’ by Roy Orbison, released in 1964.

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

Be honest.

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

My family.

Something interesting that people might want to know about you is…

I used to work at a Salvation Army home for unmarried mothers.