THE concept of calling has historically been a contentious one within The Salvation Army. Listening to the testimonies of those who have responded to officership often reveals a time of testing, the need for clarity of the nature of the call, who it is from and what it is for.
There are examples of people who have sought to put off God’s plan in pursuit of their own plans, only to be brought back to the same decision in later life. There are those for whom the knowledge that they needed to give God every part of them came at a very young age and it was a matter of waiting for the opportunity.
Testimonies tell the stories of people’s engagement with a God who calls each of us into relationship with him. The Bible outlines the stories of those whom Jesus called in person. But his call is just as clear today.
Leading up to this Candidates Sunday there has been opportunity to consider some of the things that God calls each of us to be. A disciple, trusting, purposeful, a leader. What is God calling you to be?
Visit salvationist.org.uk/ recommended-content
EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods
The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.
Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton.
TERRITORIAL ENVOY TESTIMONIES
For the beauty of the Earth
Following Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday, Anna reflects on the powerful impact of becoming aware of our planet
ACOUPLE of years ago, I stood on the precipice of a craggy rockpool, peering down into its glassy depths. Above the flurries of fish, rippling seaweed and barnacle-speckled floor, I saw myself reflected in the water’s surface – a portrait of my face painted against a canvas of nature.
I found myself wondering how God felt sculpting the tiny bodies of these fish. Slotting each scale into place with delicate precision, splashing them with iridescence. There’s an endless intensity to nature. It spirals off into the furthest,
Reflect and respond
Read Colossians 1:16. Take a moment to thank God for the gift of creation.
Reflect on the extensiveness of nature and God’s attention to detail in everything he makes.
Is God calling you to care for creation in a new way? How can you become a more active caretaker of the planet?
most undiscoverable corners of space and squeezes down into each unseeable microorganism. All of it crafted by his careful hands, including you and me!
As I marvelled at this artistry, I grew to understand something new of myself. Gazing down, I saw myself so small against the backdrop of nature and yet so very important, so loved. I understood then that I am a moving, breathing piece of the Earth as much as the little crab eyeing me with suspicion from the other side of the rockpool. We’re all as much a part of Earth’s ecosystem as these things, big and small.
I find a great deal of pride in the fact that the same hands that painted the sky and carved stone created me. When I think about this, I feel closer to nature than ever.
Later, I hopped over algae-blanketed rock to return to the beach. There, two little girls were lobbing fistfuls of wet sand at each other and a boy sat patting a sandcastle in quiet concentration. Walking along the shore, the sand was inscribed with drawings, names, footprints, pawprints and talons. And now, my own shoes were leaving their marks on the beach.
We all leave our impressions on the
Earth, whether that’s by the flowers we grow, the plastic we discard or the fields we plough. We score our own marks in the sand; we press our bodies to the Earth as evidence of our presence.
Time moves on, and our marks are washed back into the embrace of the sea, but the impermanence of our actions does not make what we do pointless. Even as time washes away our footprints, God witnesses our presence and remembers us.
Genesis 2:15 tells us that God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to work it and care for it. The Lord has asked us to look after his creation. So, no matter how small we may feel, how futile it may seem to live sustainably in a world choked by pollution, he wants us to know that our actions still matter.
The impressions we leave on the Earth may be impermanent, but those left on his heart are not.
ANNA Isle of Man
Quiz
Musical ministry
by Garry D Reed
Can you unscramble the Gowans and Larsson musical from the first letter of each answer?
‘Being
a missionary doesn’t always require travelling’
1 Name the ocean liner that sank in May 1914. The passengers included 167 members of The Salvation Army travelling to London for an international conference.
2 Name the percussion instrument synonymous with The Salvation Army played during choruses or on display accompanying marches.
Territorial Envoy Cadet Susan Jackson (Nottingham Aspley)
reflects on God’s
call on her life so far
3 Name the award that recognises Salvationists who have rendered distinguished service. It was inaugurated in 1917 by General Bramwell Booth.
4 In 1882, The Salvation Army commenced work in which country in South Asia?
5 Name the Army’s Oxford Street corps.
6 Name the country in which Army work started through the witness of just three Salvationists working on a railway in eastern Africa.
7 The march ‘Cairo Red Shield’ celebrates the Army’s Red Shield Clubs for servicemen in which country?
8 Complete the words of this chorus: ‘Ever is the war cry…’
9 Give the surname of the 13th General of The Salvation Army.
10 Name the sweet treats served by Salvationist women to American troops during the First World War.
11 Name the southern-hemisphere country where the Salvos started work in 1880.
AM for ever thankful to God for his goodness to me.
Throughout my life, he has been safe place, my friend, my guide, my inspiration and my joy. At the age of 13, attended a youth meeting in the very same venue where we will gather for Together 26 – then known as the Birmingham. During worship, encountered the Holy Spirit in a that changed my life for ever.
Not fully understanding why, I walked down the many stairs and found myself at the front, where I asked Jesus to forgive me and to fill me with his Spirit. Later that night, I remember sensing the new creation I had become. Purity, love and forgiveness flowed peacefully into my life, and I was never the same.
Soon after this experience, I felt God’s call on my life to be a missionary when an officer from Africa visited my home corps, Coventry City. As the officer spoke, I knew I wanted to do what he was doing: share the good news of Jesus with those who didn’t know God.
Years later, when my university friends were making gap year plans, I remembered this calling and wrote to International Headquarters to offer my service anywhere overseas. I imagined that a year somewhere in Africa would be amazing. However, when the reply came, it turned out I was most needed in Russia – for three years!
At first, this felt like an annoying lesson in being clearer about what you want when writing such letters. But I soon learnt that surrendering to God is always the best way. My time in Russia became the most incredible three years: rich in friendship, immersion in a beautiful culture, and unforgettable memories.
That same missionary calling led me to work for the Army in Virginia, USA, and then in Nottingham at Arnold, Meadows
and now Aspley Corps. During these years, I also worked at Nottingham College alongside people from many countries, teaching them English and learning much from them in return. Through these experiences, I discovered that being a missionary doesn’t always require travelling abroad but, rather, a willingness to share the good news of Jesus with whoever is in front of me.
I am deeply grateful to have served as both an employee and a territorial envoy within The Salvation Army. Each pathway has allowed me to fulfil my divine calling as a missionary.
For me, being commissioned as an officer is largely about entering into covenant with God in the presence of family and friends. I pray that I will indeed be a keeper of the covenant and I thank God that there is no doubt that he will be!
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.
Coventry City A journey of inclusion
Discerning God’s plan
We’ve been corps leaders here since July 2023. This year we celebrate the 148th corps anniversary. We spent our first year settling in and getting to know the corps and then began discussing and discerning God’s will for us with the corps fellowship.
We’re a city corps with a diverse congregation. It’s a friendly, relaxed and inclusive church, and a safe space in our community. We’re currently working towards becoming a Restored Beacon church for people experiencing domestic violence.
We’ve introduced new roles, such as a mission development lead. Jonathan is helping develop our mission programme by looking at the things we’re doing and working out how we can make them more efficient and more visible to people outside our building. As a retired magistrate, he gives us good contacts within the city.
We’ve just run the Alpha and Youth Alpha courses, and Everyday Evangelism is teaching us where the opportunities to share Jesus are and some strategies to get the most from those.
Fast facts
DIVISION West Midlands
CORPS LEADERS Majors Jenny and Steve Forman
FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/TSACoventry
Our core values and corps mission statement underpin all that we do. We have a prayer meeting before Sunday worship and Adherents Secretary Karen hosts an online prayer group. She comes alongside our adherents, getting to know them and encouraging others to become adherents.
Treading lightly
We’re registered with A Rocha as an Eco Church, which is overseen by our community manager, Gemma Potter. We’re trying to encourage care for our environment and create a greater awareness of it in church. We want folk to understand why they’re being asked to do things differently.
We’re waiting on our carbon footprint survey to come back before we decide how we should ‘spend to save’ most effectively. Our biggest unfriendly environmental element is our heating system, which is a priority for upgrading. We’ve already installed LED lighting, moved to a more efficient cooker and fitted solar panels. We are hopeful that we can fit a battery to store power and further increase our energy efficiency. Rather than offering bottled water, we’ve installed a water cooler machine, which has helped reduce plastic waste. We encourage people to use reusable bottles, and we provide glasses that can be washed.
We use social media for our internal communications to reduce unnecessary printing, and the band uses the Spond app to keep everyone up to date on activities. We also use it to provide
meeting plans, which further reduces excess printing and paper use.
All are welcome
Our Easter Extravaganza – based on ‘Lord of the Dance’ – was the centrepiece of a Messy Church-style activity day. Corps Sergeant-Major Mark Street wrote the script.
In June, we’re holding a big school assembly, where people are choosing their favourite school songs. In October, we’re hosting a superheroes weekend, which will again include activities along the lines of Messy Church.
Our annual open band practices are well attended and members of our band who are involved in non-Army bands are seeing missional opportunities arise from these events. Our most recent practice attracted more than 60 musicians.
Friday evening’s NR:GEE youth club is a space for young people aged 10 to 16. Our team of 12 regularly have around 10 young people attending and we’re in the process of a leaflet drop to schools.
Our community café opens on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. It’s beautiful that we’ve got worshipping corps folk coming in, sitting down and talking to people because they want to share with them. People have commented on what a lovely, safe place it is and some are coming to Sunday worship.
As a corps, we’re on a journey of inclusivity and we would ask readers to pray for us and for God’s continued leading in all that we do.
Called to be a leader
Major Ian Loxley reminds us to let truth confront us and grace reshape us
ACTS 2:37–42
OUR study passage captures one of the most pivotal moments in the early Church: the response to Peter’s Spirit-filled sermon on the day of Pentecost. These verses form a bridge between the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, and the birth of a new community shaped by the gospel. At the heart of the passage is a divine calling: God summons people not simply to believe certain truths, but to become something new. These verses reveal what believers are called to be as individuals and as a community.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Can you identify what God is calling you to be?
As you read the study passage, listen out for some clarification of this calling.
The phrase ‘cut to the heart’ (v37) suggests that the Holy Spirit was actively working in the listeners’ consciences. Peter’s message about Jesus’ death and resurrection didn’t merely inform them –it transformed them internally. The calling begins with openness.
Openness to God is not a passive experience; it is a deep internal stirring that awakens spiritual hunger. In any generation, God calls people to be receptive – willing to let truth confront and grace reshape.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How are you ensuring that your heart is open to hearing God’s voice?
Are you prepared to obey him unconditionally?
Conviction leads to a question about how to respond. Rather than turning away in guilt or defensiveness, the people turned towards God’s messengers. This demonstrates that the Holy Spirit is at work. It also shows that there is humility; there is a recognition that transformation requires guidance. Part of our calling is to be people who ask, listen and surrender to God’s wisdom.
The early believers didn’t assume they could navigate faith alone; they sought godly direction. We are probably used to this learning process being referred to as discipleship.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
The Church is still called to be a learning community – people seeking God’s next steps with teachable hearts. Are you prepared to listen to and learn from people within your fellowship?
Peter’s instruction to ‘repent and be baptised’ (v38) outlines a key identity of believers as people who respond. Repentance means turning from sin towards God. Baptism, whether by water or – in the context of this chapter – a baptism of the Holy Spirit, marks a new beginning with a new identity, a ‘new creation’ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Repentance is a reorientation of life requiring a change of focus and direction. Do you need to commit to establishing a new approach to life or a new direction of travel?
A baptism of the Holy Spirit is a baptism for ministry and mission. Baptism by water is usually a public declaration of a new identity. Are you
being called to ‘go public’ about the renewal God has initiated in your life by engaging in ministry and mission?
Sometimes we receive a gift that is purely for ourselves. However, the promise referred to in verse 39 is for ‘you and your children and for all who are far off’.
Peter widens his appeal beyond the personal and beyond the immediate crowd. The calling of God is inclusive, expansive and rooted in God’s desire to save all people. It extends across family lines and it bridges cultural, ethnic and geographical divides.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
The apostles couldn’t help but announce God’s salvation to the world – sometimes by word and often by deed. As someone called to be a recipient of this promise, how are you going to proclaim it within your family and in your wider context?
When Peter spoke, calling his listeners to ‘save yourselves from this corrupt generation’ (v40), he was highlighting the moral and spiritual climate of the world. The calling of God invites people to be countercultural, moving away from the generally accepted norms and patterns of the prevailing culture into a new way of being, where life is shaped by holiness and reflects God’s attributes.
Salvation is more than an experience for an individual, it is an invitation into a countercultural community. The corrosive influences around us must be resisted, and a radically different lifestyle adopted. This call to be a new and distinctive people was costly for the early believers, yet it was the only reasonable response they could make to the love and grace they experienced from God.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What do you need to be and do to ensure that you and your Christian community are living in a way that is both pleasing and honouring to God, whatever the cost?
‘They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer’ (v42). This verse summarizes four foundational commitments of the first Christian community and emphasises that their calling wasn’t simply personal, it was deeply communal.
They were called to be learners. By placing themselves under the apostles’ teaching, discipleship was fundamental and truth anchored their lives.
They were called to be family. Fellowship (koinōnia) is shared life, not occasional socialising. They built relationships marked by generosity, unity and mutual care.
They were called to be worshippers. The breaking of bread included both shared meals and the Lord’s Supper, where worship was central and not peripheral.
They were called to be intercessors. Prayer shaped their daily rhythms, decisions and dependence on God.
The early believers were called to be a community devoted to spiritual growth, meaningful relationships, worship and prayer. What part can you play to ensure that the Christian community you belong to models the template given in verse 42?
To read the full, unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.
SATURDAY 9 MAY: CARING FOR CREATION – PRAYING WITH NATURE – COLOUR AND SOUND
The dawn chorus rises in intensity, filling the morning with song. There’s also a surge of colour as many plants reach their flowering window. As you notice sounds and colours, be drawn into gratitude. Pray simply: ‘Tune my heart to your song today.’ Where is colour returning in your life? Ask for grace to recognise joy, and for courage to welcome beauty without rushing past it.
by
Major Gordon Cotterill (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
SUNDAY 10 MAY: SABBATH PRAYER – WHAT IS THE SPIRIT SAYING TO THE CHURCH?
Do we expect to hear God’s voice and encounter the Spirit during other elements of gathering for worship: the greetings, the practical tasks and the incidental conversations? Pay attention when you go to worship today. As you talk to your fellow worshippers, notice what the Spirit is saying to you through them.
by
Lyndall
Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)
MONDAY 11 MAY: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – DIVISIONAL CHILDREN AND YOUTH SPECIALISTS GATHERING (12–14 MAY)
We thank you for our specialists and the work they do, nurturing, raising up and drawing children and young people closer to you and further into your mission. May they be refreshed and inspired by time with others, and energised as they return home to their important work.
by Captain Kat Whitmore (Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary)
TUESDAY 12 MAY: SERVING AND CARING – BURN LIKE STARS WELLBEING RETREAT (14 MAY)
The Rev Dr Gillian Straine will unpack a biblical viewpoint on resilience and burnout. Our prayer is that everyone who comes to the retreat or accesses the available online course will know the sustaining power of God, have the courage to be vulnerable before him and be empowered by the Holy Spirit.
by Major Vikki Burr (Coordinator for Regional Well Being Services)
WEDNESDAY 13 MAY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – PRAYER IN THE WORKPLACE
In praying for your workplace – or for someone else’s – pray for a rising awareness of God’s presence in that place. Pray God’s people will follow Jesus in everything they do at work, demonstrating his values, seeking the things of his Kingdom, and caring and praying for work colleagues. taken from thykingdomcome.global
THURSDAY 14 MAY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – HONG KONG AND MACAU TERRITORY
Pray for all those involved in the Army’s work in Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China, particularly where the Christian gospel meets with opposition and persecution. Pray for wisdom and strength for the territorial leadership team: Colonels Phil and Deslea Maxwell and Lieut-Colonel Tsui, Heung-Ying (Minny). by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)
FRIDAY 15 MAY: GROWING IN FAITH – THY KINGDOM COME (15–24 MAY)
This global initiative unites Christians around the world in prayer during the lead up to Pentecost. This year’s theme is God with Us. In the coming days we’ll explore Bible stories demonstrating God’s transformative presence, power and love in the lives of people and places. taken from thykingdomcome.global
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.
MAJOR IAN LOXLEY
Called to be…
Territorial Candidates Directors Majors Catherine and Jonny Smith share their thoughts with Lyn Woods on this year’s theme for
Called to Be... follows the story of Simon Peter, a disciple of Jesus. Can you tell me about the series?
Jonny Peter’s is a beautiful journey where we see the best of and the challenges around discipleship. Called to Be… covers a holistic understanding of what people are called to be. If your corps hasn’t done the series yet, I would strongly recommend it! It’s designed to help you listen more effectively to God’s voice, his leading and his calling, with a focus on local leadership.
There are more resources available now than ever, and part of discipling people is signposting them. We’re also really encouraged by the divisional discipleship that’s happening through courses like Growing Leaders and Transformers.
Catherine There needs to be intentionality around listening. It’s about hearing God and being faithful to what he is saying. A beautiful example is the 9.38 prayer initiative, where we are praying daily as a territory for leaders in The Salvation Army and our spheres of influence. There are tangible answers
Candidates Sunday
What blessings and challenges are you seeing?
Catherine In the candidates process, we’re privileged to hear the heart of people’s stories. It’s quite beautiful to see the way God has taken people –some who have been very reluctant are now saying: ‘I’m all in!’ It’s important that the candidates process is rigorous and takes time to discern well for such a time as this. A big challenge for the Army across Europe is the need for leaders.
Jonny A blessing for me has been the real privilege of sitting in an assessment conference and talking to people who are simply saying: ‘We get a sense that God is calling us to be…’ It’s a privilege to sit and hear their stories. Assessment conference weekends are long and intense, but you go home overflowing because of the blessings.
What are you praying for?
Catherine My prayer is not just for candidates for officership, territorial envoyship and employed spiritual leadership, but also that we, as a territory, get excited about evangelism again. I pray that we are sharing the love of Jesus in communities and seeing people transformed by coming to know Jesus. Jonny What we know is that prayer works – we see it! The 9.38 prayer initiative has helped corps really discern about local leadership in their settings. Most people who come through to officership have been local leaders. It’s an exciting time and God’s certainly doing something!
• Explore your calling by visiting tsa.link/calling-vocation or start a conversation by emailing vocation@ salvationarmy.org.uk
LYN WOODS Editorial Assistant Salvationist
He leadeth me!
Two territorial envoys reflect on their journeys to leadership
Territorial Envoy Jo Beattie
Leicester West
I first heard God calling me to spiritual leadership when I was at my lowest, and I used this as an excuse not to respond. Years later, God prompted me to finally say yes, and I began to explore my calling. However, I faced many challenges and setbacks along the way.
Despite these difficulties, God has been preparing me for spiritual leadership, opening doors to new opportunities and surrounding me with people who have allowed me to grow, shown me love and taught me what it truly means to be like Jesus.
Nine years after God first called me to spiritual leadership, I felt a particular calling to become a territorial envoy. Although there were things that would have previously stopped me, God made a way and – at the end of September 2025 –I was installed as a territorial envoy at Leicester West Corps, joining my husband in full-time ministry.
In the short time since then, I have been blessed and privileged to journey with those around me. I have seen God at work.
As a territorial envoy I have had to step out of my comfort zone, but I know that God has been beside me each step of the way, guiding me and leading me. Throughout my journey I have learnt to understand that God’s will and timing are always best. As I continue in this role, I am excited and expectant to see where God will lead me next, trusting that he will continue to guide my steps and use me for his purposes.
Territorial Envoy Jon Harris Forest of Dean
Wow, what a journey into ministry! As I step out as a territorial envoy, let me explain how God has evolved a perfect plan that’s only now coming into sharp focus.
I started attending the Army as a teenager. Not long after finding Jesus at age 14, I had a strong sense of calling to full-time ministry that never left me. My passion for the environment led me to become a town planner. The past three years have seen me lead an urban planning course at the University of Gloucestershire, which opened fantastic opportunities for joint research placements with The Salvation Army and our students.
Around the same time, God led my wife, Sue, and me to serve at the Forest of Dean, where we’ve been for the past five years. This is where I discovered my true pioneer heart, was released into new expressions and found a place where God could convict, inspire and affirm my calling! The nurture from our leadership team was amazing, and God really started to help me see community through his eyes. Last year, I had the absolute joy of starting our mentoring outreach, where we journey with people of all ages who are unemployed.
So, since an initial calling more than 40 years ago, God has been so good in preparing, mentoring and guiding me for the right place, at the right time and with the right heart. God has graciously packed in opportunities to work in the community and develop skills, leading to a point where the huge jigsaw fell into place.
My calling is to lead with a pioneer’s fire and vision, and always with gentleness and a deep love for marginalised people. Thank you to those who have been part of this jigsaw-building. It is never too late to follow your calling and see your history bloom into something purposeful and beautiful.
Making training personal
Integrative Training Officer Major Wendy
Stanbury, Cadet Edmond Balog and Cadet Tim
Watch share their experiences of officer training at William Booth College with Salvationist
How is training delivered at William Booth College?
Wendy Our main vehicle is the DipHE Salvation Army Officer Training, which is a level 5 diploma course. Alongside that, we’ve tried to open up more flexible pathways. Some cadets are on a nonaccredited course and some have a shorter or longer training programme. These flexible pathways consider people’s previous experience and try to tailor a programme that’s best suited to their needs.
What’s changed in recent years?
Wendy We’ve been re-validated by a new university, York St John University. In developing the new course, we wanted more emphasis on practical experience and reflective practice. So the biggest change to the diploma programme is an attachment placement throughout the first year. Cadets are assigned to a corps, where they worship and do three week-long placements across the year. They do the learning about the practical aspects of corps leadership that would have previously happened in a classroom – like finances, leading corps council meetings, preparing for funerals – but it now happens in context.
Edmond and Tim are on slightly different pathways, but they access
the same learning. They’re on placement together, and they’ve really flourished. They’ve taken opportunities to do extra things and become involved in corps life. In the previous course, placements ran parallel to the diploma. Now they’re incorporated into it. Somebody who may not be academic will now get credit for their practical engagement, which I think is a much better way of assessing somebody for spiritual leadership.
The other big change is that assignments are shorter, there are fewer of them, and there is a greater range of assessment types, like portfolios, presentations and assessed conversations. This is a better way of assessing people than simply relying on long written essays, and means people with learning differences have more opportunity to express themselves, which has got to be a good thing.
How has this approach helped?
Edmond I’m a non-accredited student and I love the plan because of my level of English and experience of learning. I’ve never done higher education; I did just basic foundational education in my country, so the programme made for me is absolutely brilliant. Rather than writing assignments, I’m having really good conversations to show my understanding
and Tim
of the learning, and that really works for me!
Tim When I came here, I thought things were going to be very difficult because I haven’t been in school for a very long time. But I really feel at home. I feel like I’m doing something that I’ve been doing for ever. I feel comfortable – not because I’m very good at it – but because of the way we are being tutored, the way we can access information and resources. There’s no excuse I can give to say I can’t do this. Wendy I think the changes to the course
Edmond
have made a big difference, but it’s important that people are teachable and open. I’m really pleased that Edmond and Tim feel they’re getting the support they need, but it would make no difference if they weren’t willing to put in the effort.
Do you feel you were well prepared for coming to college?
Edmond The Candidates Unit have a good programme to prepare you before
college. Through one meeting, we decided I should wait a year because of my English skills. The Candidates Unit was able to get me into a six-month English course. I also did the Army’s Study Skills course through Open Learning, and that really helped.
Tim Before I came here, I was like a fish in a pond. When the owner of the pond decides to move the fish, they are not going to be happy because they don’t know what’s coming after. It’s that situation we are having: not knowing what’s coming. But, because of the whole package of training I had in my corps, when I moved into the new pond – which is William Booth College – I felt differently.
I’m being trained to establish my own spiritual life, to strengthen myself. I’ve really grown spiritually and I now know God in a better, more mature way. I really appreciate my life back then because, if it wasn’t my life back then, this wouldn’t be my life right here.
Wendy Once upon a time, there was a perception that you offer for officership, we cram everything into two years and then churn you out at the end. What you see with Tim and Edmond’s stories is, in fact, a whole chain of people working together. Tim’s corps leader put in some really good development along the way. Edmond had a really good development plan with his divisional team. The Candidates Unit are working with me and the team in Foundational Learning and also with the divisions and Open Learning. There’s a
whole network of people preparing the pathway from the minute you say yes to spiritual leadership. The college is just one component. And it goes on after training in the five-year Into Officership programme for lieutenants.
Is there anything you wish you had known before you came to college?
Edmond It’s not just college; we’re living here! And life here is beautiful.
Tim Personally, I felt like I was going to a rough boarding school. But here, you have people who will take care of you. It’s the best home! When we leave, we’ll really be missing this place.
How would you encourage someone considering spiritual leadership?
Tim There are people out there who are not sure about their calling – they have passion for Christ, but they don’t know whether it’s a calling. I urge you to close your eyes and go for it. Sometimes, that’s how you realise your calling has been there all along.
Edmond People have worried about how they’ll study if they’ve got kids. ‘What about if they become ill?’ The college knows we have families, and they support that.
I think people stress more than they should. When I started, I was like: wow, all new things, all in English! How can I do it? But you realise we have time, we have opportunities. You don’t need to stress.
The Proclaimers of Transformation session of cadets
A great cloud of witnesses
William Booth College Principal Lieut-Colonel Mark Herbert looks forward to Commissioning at Together 26
IWONDER how many Commissioning meetings you have been to. How many officers have you witnessed being commissioned, ordained and sent to their first appointments? In truth, the number doesn’t matter because every Commissioning and every officer commissioned creates a story of their own.
At the heart of Commissioning is the celebration of all that God is doing in the lives of his people and his Army, and the unfiltered challenge of the need for more officers. We are at a hinge moment in the life of our territory and we need more leaders to take us in the right direction. William Booth College (WBC) exists to equip and resource people for the mission of God – we are really good at that – and we are ready and waiting for you!
The six cadets of the Keepers of the Covenant session have each journeyed different paths to their Commissioning meeting. Their stories are theirs to tell but listen out for the way God worked through circumstances and enabled them to overcome hurdles. God’s plan for our lives can only be frustrated by the decisions we make; don’t let fear speak louder than the voice of God.
So, we look forward to welcoming you to Commissioning 2026 and, as you take your seat for these sacred moments, we will share together, thank God for those who have responded, and pray that others will be inspired to do the same.
My commissioning experience
Lieutenant Georgia Smith
Sherburn Hill
The atmosphere as I waited to enter Commissioning was a mix of excitement and nerves. I was aware of the weight of responsibility of spiritual leadership, but also excited to see what God was going to do.
Knowing that I was not doing it alone was such a comfort. I was stepping into this new adventure with God and surrounded by friends and family who were standing by me and cheering me on as they witnessed my ordination and commissioning. It was so encouraging to know that those in the room and online were supporting me and my sessionmates in prayer and that we have been covered in prayer since.
Lieutenant John Melia Street
My personal journey has not always been straightforward, and there have been many people who encouraged me along the way. Being able to stand on the platform at Commissioning surrounded by some of those people made the moment even more special.
Having now experienced commissioning from both perspectives – as a participant and as a supporter – I recognise the sacred and spiritual connection it creates. Even two years on, I have met people who were present that day and who continue to pray for me, just as I pray for those I had the privilege to support.
Lieutenant Paul Sass Aberystwyth
Covenant Day at WBC and Commissioning at Together 2024 will always hold the greatest of significance for me.
Despite all I was facing with my health, the Lord realised his will in granting me the strength and grace to experience the most sacred of moments with my wife, my family, those gathered in Newport and, of course, my beloved sessional colleagues the Defenders of Justice! For the actual words of commissioning to be spoken in Welsh was a blessing that made that humbling, public moment before God even more impactful.
By his wounds we have peace and life
THREE hundred and twenty-five members of African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe gathered for a Holy Spiritelectrified Easter weekend, writes African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe Secretary Walter Masona. The weekend was led by General André Cox (Retired) and Commissioner Silvia Cox, who were supported by the fellowship’s executive officers, Commissioners John and Dorita Wainwright, and Majors André and Nana Togo (Mali and Burkina Faso Region).
The General and Commissioner Silvia shared the platform when they gave their message on Good Friday evening, focusing on Jesus’ sayings from the cross and introducing the theme for the weekend, By His Wounds We Have Peace and Life, which was based on Isaiah 53:5.
Commenting on Jesus’ first and second sayings, the General noted that there are people in our world who struggle to forgive themselves, but
Jesus offers instant forgiveness – as he did to those who were crucifying him and to the man on the cross next to his. The theme was later unpacked in a Bible study led by Commissioner Silvia. Taking the congregation on a tour of the Tabernacle in Leviticus, we looked at rituals that formed part of the Old Testament religion, which all changed when Jesus went to the cross to offer us direct access to God.
In his message on Saturday evening, General André observed that it is sometimes difficult to talk about Jesus in public places. He reminded the congregation that the Lord is no longer on the cross but is alive, offering salvation today and waiting for people to respond to his calling, even though we continue waiting for his second coming. He reminded the congregation that The Salvation Army needs more soldiers and more officers.
During separate meetings on Saturday
afternoon, the General led a men’s fellowship rally while Commissioner Silvia led a home league rally. Separate events were held for the children and youth, supported by Majors André and Nana. The engagement of the young people throughout the weekend was both encouraging and inspirational.
The first member of the fellowship to become a cadet in the UK and Ireland Territory focused attention on the need for others to follow. Also encouraging is the increasing number of members who are taking on leadership roles in their corps across the territory.
During the weekend, musical items were presented by a brass band and songsters, with hosho (pictured) and timbrels. But, it was the young people and children who attracted huge applause when they took to the stage with their presentations. The mercy seat was lined with 43 seekers on Saturday and 51 on Sunday.
UNIVERSITY OF WARWICK
EASTER
BIRMINGHAM CITADEL A Holy Week creative arts exhibition ran from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, featuring crafts, paintings, photographs and cards made by members of the corps. The exhibition was open to the public while Easter meetings took place, including A Musical Meditation, Bible studies, a Tenebrae service, a coffee morning, and Good Friday and Easter Sunday. This was the first time an exhibition had run at the corps and more than 30 exhibitors submitted work to be displayed. Some items will be featured at the Together 26 exhibition. – RO
EASTER
CIRENCESTER A silhouette of the Easter scene was displayed in the main window of the hall at the beginning of Holy Week, and the hall was decorated to illustrate the events of Palm Sunday. A Maundy Thursday meeting of reflection was held and children of the Gap Sunday Club made a garden to summarise the story of Easter. – MG
PENGE On Holy Saturday, the corps was venue eight in the Penge Easter Trail. Community Mission Facilitator Becky Waldock created a fun vibe using bubble machines and Christian worship music, which a dedicated team danced to while giving out Kids Alive! and goody bags to 336 children. Each goody bag contained chocolate, an Easter tract and an invitation to Messy Church. – PK
LIMAVADY The corps took to the streets on Maundy Thursday, handing out 70 pocket crosses to remind people of the true meaning of Easter. Invitations to worship and weekly activities were also given out. – SR
KETTERING On Holy Saturday, an Easter choral celebration led by Bandmaster Richard Phillips brought together a 75-strong community choir and a chamber orchestra of around 20 players. The programme opened with Gabriel Fauré’s ‘Requiem’, a seven-movement work that reflected weeks of detailed rehearsal. After the interval, the choir performed John Rutter’s ‘Gloria’. The concert concluded with ‘Jesus Victorious’, an original composition by Bandmaster Richard in three movements. It told the Easter story from tragedy to triumph, bringing the evening to a strong and purposeful close. – JM
Jesus after welcoming him as King. Good Friday challenged us to look at the story from different perspectives. Easter Day’s warm worship saw the dedication of our mercy seat – which was previously at Portsmouth North Corps – with focus on it being a place of prayer and always available. The hall was beautifully decorated by the weekly craft group. The fellowship continues to grow as we focus activities on friendship and inclusivity. – AS
EASTER
EASTER
EASTER
EASTER
EASTER
ST ALBANS The band heralded the arrival of Easter morning in Verulam Park. Dog walkers expressed their appreciation in listening to an array of hymns celebrating hope and renewal. – BH
EASTER
BELLSHILL The band led the corps march of witness on Easter Day, concluding a weekend of great blessing and challenge under corps leaders Majors David and Gillian Burns. – MS
SPORTS
MIRFIELD A fitness suite aimed at improving mobility in people aged over 50 has marked its two-year anniversary. The suite is also helping people rehabilitate after strokes and reduce their need for operations through machine-based exercise classes. – AR
STAINES As part of 2026 TCS London Marathon MyWay –which allows runners to run where they are – 40 corps members raised funds for vital services the corps provides locally. Corps leader Major Val Mylechreest said: ‘I’m incredibly proud of everyone taking part in this challenge. It’s a wonderful example of people coming together with determination, compassion and a real heart for their community.’ – AR
OUTREACH
LUTON The corps welcomed 60 pupils and five staff members for an ultimate church visit. Bible stories were told and great fun was had by all. We explained why we do what we do in the community. It was a really exciting Kingdom morning with children exploring faith really well. God is good! – JH
ENVIRONMENT
WESTMINSTER School children joined representatives of The Salvation Army, Green Christian and Zero Hour at the Houses of Parliament to call for a new law to protect climate and nature. Territorial Environmental Officer Major Heather Poxon said: ‘The climate and nature crisis threatens the future of the children here today and the generations that will follow them. Caring for creation is not an optional extra for Christians, it is at the heart of who we are called to be.’ – AR
COMMUNITY
launched at the corps in response to a 43 per cent increase in domestic abuse in the area since 2020. The Beacon Church model, which works alongside the Army’s Core Recovery churches, is designed to support survivors of domestic abuse in a trauma-informed, faith-based environment. – AR
OUTREACH
BRIGHTON CONGRESS HALL The 2026 Brighton marathon route gave opportunity to open the corps café, with the band providing music outside to the many supporters. People took up the offer of tea and coffee and shared time chatting with corps members. – BW
ANNIVERSARY
STOWMARKET As part of the 140th corps anniversary, the Anglia Fellowship Band gave a lunchtime concert. An appreciative audience enjoyed music ranging from ‘All in the April Evening’ to the Beatles’ ‘When I’m Sixty-Four’. – DC
COMMUNITY
BOLTON SOUTH The South Lancashire branch of the Christian Motorcyclists Association runs out of the corps. Corps member Andy Harrison is chair of the branch, which hosted the monthly Manchester Motorcycle Club Alliance in March. Corps leader Captain Alison Godwin and her team provided a well-received supper for the bikers afterwards. It was a good night of fellowship serving the biking community. – MG
BIRTHDAY
READING CENTRAL Members of the corps enjoyed a great celebration marking Ken Kew’s 101st birthday. When asked for the secret to a long and happy life, Ken stressed the importance of trusting God, revealing his strong faith and contented spirit. For many years, Ken was an active local officer and was fully involved in life at Reading Central. Ken is pictured with his wife, Pat. – DM
ANNIVERSARY
LEICESTER SOUTH A youth takeover weekend was the penultimate event in 20th corps anniversary celebrations. Saturday featured a community spring fair. Children enjoyed a treasure hunt across the expansive grounds of the corps and took part in crafting beautiful spring wreaths. An indoor car boot sale added to the sense of community, drawing in visitors of all ages. On Sunday, young people led every aspect of worship, from delivering announcements to conducting the songsters, demonstrating confidence and commitment. Among them was Jordan Richardson, who was one of two young members who shared a vision for the future of the corps. When asked what they would like to change, the response was simple and deeply moving: ‘Nothing!’ – PW
COMMUNITY
CROYDON CITADEL The second Employability Day and Community Fair held at the corps invited people who were looking for work, who were interested in hearing from specialist organisations or who were being supported by Employment Plus. The civic mayor, Councillor Richard Chatterjee, and elected executive mayor, Councillor Jason Perry attended. Corps leader Lieut-Colonel Edgar Chagas, Community Manager Chris Waldock and the Employment Plus team were delighted with the success of the event. – DR
COMMUNITY
NORFOLK Around 30 members of Briston Corps and Beccles Corps over-50 group met for afternoon tea at Wroxham Barns Café. They sang ‘Bind us Together, Lord’ before enjoying refreshments and fellowship. The two corps have developed a strong bond of mutual support and Christian love in recent years, and we are blessed to meet as brothers and sisters in Christ. – LW
COMMUNITY
CRAMLINGTON Coffee morning attracts around 40 people every week and continues to be a tonic and lifeline for people who are living alone or have experienced loss. It offers a warm space with affordable breakfast, plenty of bargains, and a chance to make friends. Corps leader Territorial Envoy Sue Younger is on hand to offer pastoral support. – AR
FUNDRAISING
BARGOED Castle Court manager Hannah Clark raised £1,050 during Christmas and Easter. Following Easter Messy Church, she presented corps leader Jan Sutcliffe with the cheque. The funds will go towards the Army’s community work. – JS
MAJOR JAMES RORIE
JAMES was born in Kirkwall, the Orkney Isles, in 1942 and grew up in Kirkwall Corps. At the age of 20 he joined the British Army and served in the Royal Corps of Transport in Germany. On leave, while visiting his sister in Lerwick, Shetland Isles, he met his future wife June. On leaving the forces he moved to Lerwick, where James and June were married in 1966. They had two children, Paul and Fiona.
Although he no longer attended The Salvation Army, James wanted his children to attend Sunday school, and this led to James and June attending the corps, where they came to know the Lord as Saviour. They were enrolled as soldiers in 1985 and became fully involved in the corps.
While attending Commissioning in London in 1988, they felt called to work for The Salvation Army, but God had other plans for them. In November of that year, James, June and their daughter, Fiona, moved to Aberdeen, where James and June became envoys at Aberdeen Woodside with Inverurie Corps. They were later auxiliary-captains when Aberdeen Mastrick was added.
Over the years, they served in various corps. They returned to Lerwick, which was a home appointment, then successively Oban, Motherwell with Wishaw, and their final appointment, Ashington. It was from there that they entered retirement in 2007.
Moving back to Motherwell, they became fully involved in the corps until it closed in 2024, when they transferred to Bellshill Corps.
James loved the Lord and was a man of faith, serving God to the end. Now, he is ‘safe in the arms of Jesus’. James was promoted to Glory surrounded by his family. He is sadly missed by his wife, June, children, Paul and Fiona, four grandchildren and two great-grandsons. – DB
MOIRA NIELSEN BRISTOL EASTON
MOIRA Catherine Alexander was born into a Salvationist home on 2 January 1933 at Newcastle Byker Corps. She married Terry Nielsen on 3 October 1953. The couple moved to Bedford, then to Peterborough, then York and subsequently Plymouth. There, Moira joined the staff at the then South West Divisional Headquarters.
Moira and Terry eventually retired to Bristol.
Throughout her adult life, Moira was a committed Salvationist and a keen songster and vocal soloist. She took an interest in the development of others including as singing company sergeant at Plymouth Exeter Hall and songster sergeant at Bristol Easton. She was also a member of staff at divisional music schools.
Moira was a loyal supporter of her husband and fiercely proud of her family. She had many friends throughout the Salvation Army world. Moira leaves a huge legacy, particularly for the family but also the many who got to know her over 93 years. – CN
PAT SEALEY CANNOCK
FROM Birmingham South Yardley Corps, Pat met Glenn at a divisional event, married and entered the Blood and Fire session of 1971. Leaving at the end of 1976, they soldiered at Walsall before settling at Cannock and bringing up two children. Work took them briefly to Staple Hill.
Pat loved children and was a people person all her life. Her caring and influence on people of all ages became clear through the messages and attendance at her funeral and thanksgiving. Pat’s quiet Christian love was felt by everyone she met. When the children grew up, she cared for disabled men, gaining qualifications and becoming a manager. Pat was junior soldiers sergeant and young people’s sergeant-major, retiring twice, then being parent-and-toddler club leader. Serving continually despite years of poor health, Pat left us suddenly aged 75, leaving her husband, two children, their spouses and four grandchildren, with whom she shared such love and fun. – GS
COLIN HOWELLS ABERTILLERY
COLIN was born into a non-Salvationist family, the third son of four boys. The family lived near the Army hall, but Colin was the only boy that attended Sunday school, becoming a singing company and young people’s band member. He was taught to play an instrument and moved into the senior band and songsters. Colin had the ability to play the smaller instruments and play the larger ones as and when required. He was possessed of a cheerful nature and ready to share his enthusiasm by way of testimony and song. Colin was the young people’s band leader for 13 years, a position that gave him the opportunity to share his faith. His last years were lived at home with dementia. Friends who remembered Colin came from far and near to be present at the funeral. – AB
EUNICE LITCHFIELD BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL
EUNICE was born in 1939 in Bedford to a Salvation Army family. She lost her dad at an early age, which left her mum to bring up five children.
From an early age, they were all members at Bedford Congress Hall. She came through the singing company and met her future husband, Brian, who was a Salvationist and played in the junior sections.
They got married in 1959 at Bedford Congress Hall, and had three children.
Eunice loved singing, she became a songster and sang soprano. She eventually became singing company leader at Bedford.
They moved to Eastbourne and transferred to Eastbourne Citadel, where Eunice sang in the songsters. Eventually, Eunice’s health deteriorated and they moved back to Bedford in May 2024 to be near family.
Eunice was promoted to Glory on 12 January 2026 after a long illness. She was a faithful follower of Jesus and is missed by Brian and family. – PL
Appointed
Effective 1 April
MAJOR HILARIE WATCHORN, Executive Secretary to Territorial Leadership, two days per week
Effective 9 April
MAJOR HEIDIE BRADBURY, additional appointment, THQ Chaplain, one day per week
MAJOR IAIN HUDSON, additional appointment, THQ Chaplain, one day per week
Effective 1 June
MAJOR VALENTINA WEARMOUTH, Officer for Congregational Life, Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center Greenville, USA Southern Territory
CAPTAIN RICHARD WEARMOUTH, Officer for Congregational Life, Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center Greenville, USA Southern Territory
Effective 4 June
MAJOR REBECCA WARD, Chaplain, Logos House Lifehouse
TERRITORIAL ENVOY ALLAN ISDALE, additional appointment, Divisional Safeguarding Officer, Central and Southern Scotland Division
Local officers appointed
CORPS PIANIST RUSSELL SNOWDEN, Parkhead
OVER-60 CLUB SECRETARY JENEFER EDWARDS, Rushden
ASSISTANT OVER-60 CLUB SECRETARY JACKIE LITTLEJOHN, Rushden
Dedicated to God
JUDE BOLUTAYO, son of Deborah and Ola Bolutayo, at Parkhead by Captain Amy-Jo Battersby
Promoted to Glory
COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON from Glen o’ Dee Hospital on 23 April
CAPTAIN BERYL REDHEAD from Whitefriars residential home on 24 April
MAJOR CHRISTINE SMITH from Royal Alexandra Hospital on 24 April
Bereaved
MAJORS JEFFREY AND SANDRA WILLS of their son Robert Wills
CHRISTOPHER HINTON, Glenrothes, and Claire Wallace of their mother Colonel Sylvia Hinton
LISA PEVERELL , Andrea Jungmann and Nicola Redhead, Worcester, of their mother Captain Beryl Redhead
MAJOR JAMES SMITH of his wife Major Christine Smith, David Smith and Iain Smith of their mother
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
Wed 20 May – Mon 25 May France
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Fri 15 May Ireland (divisional review) Sun 17 May Bangor Mon 18 May William Booth College (Together in Worship)
NOTICES
Empowering a Generation: International Youth Congress logo competition
International Headquarters has confirmed an International Youth Congress will take place in Jakarta, Indonesia, in 2027. While not everyone will be able to attend the congress in person, all Salvation Army young adults aged 18 to 25 are invited to design a logo for the event and its related materials. Using the theme Empowering a Generation for inspiration, they are encouraged to create a logo using their choice of arts, styles and techniques and email a PDF, JPEG or PNG of their design to YouthCongress27@salvationarmy.org by 1 June 2026.
Storytelling competition
Salvationist is teaming up with Kids Alive! for our first ever joint writing competition! We want to hear your versions of Bible stories, retold however you want to retell them! That might be a favourite parable or a Bible story you think more people should know about – we only ask you keep it faithful to Scripture and that you avoid writing about Christmas or Easter. Entries will be printed in the 27 June issues of Salvationist and Kids Alive! to mark National Writing Day on 24 June. This competition is open to all ages – just email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk or kidsalive@salvationarmy.org.uk by 8 June. We can’t wait to read what you write!
Pentecost in Practice
These multi-use posters are designed to help you put Pentecost into practice. Hand them out, stick them up, share them on social media or keep this visual reminder of how to continue the works of Jesus beyond Pentecost Sunday. Find out more at tsa.link/pentecost
Apply for the Terrain discipleship programme
Young people aged 18 to 25 years old who are connected to The Salvation Army are encouraged to apply for the latest intake for the Terrain programme. Over the course of a year, Terrainees will explore the Gospels, gain an insight into Jesus’ life, and benefit from study, reflection and one-to-one spiritual mentoring. Find out more and apply via tsa.link/terrain
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week Territorial Candidates Director Major Jonny Smith speaks on Candidates Sunday. Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Morning Praise with Kids Alive!
Get your day started with half an hour of music, prayer, a thought and lots of giggles! Listen on Saturdays from 7.30am to 8am. Can’t tune in on Saturday morning? The broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 9am and Mondays at 7.30am. Can’t tune in then? A podcast is also available each week.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/kidsalive
Sunday Wake-Up with Lyndall Bywater
Ease yourself into the day with a relaxed mix of music, chat and a few inspirational moments to stir your soul. Listen from 7am to 9am on Sundays.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
DURING Mothering Sunday’s meeting, led by Recruiting Sergeant Divisional Envoy Gerry Ranachan, the corps were delighted to witness the enrolment of Oluwadunmininu, known as Dunmininu, as a junior soldier. After his enrolment, Dunmininu enthusiastically participated in the young people’s sections. Dunmininu is pictured with corps leader Major Helen Schofield, Divisional Envoy Gerry, Junior Soldiers Sergeant Lauren Hay, Young People’s Sergeant-Major Grace Baxter and Colour Sergeant Stephen Jacques. – SJ
MAVIS was welcomed as an adherent and her children, Nana and Yaw, were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps leaders Captains Jenni and Nick Pryor. Mavis shared her testimony, while Nana and Yaw chose their favourite songs ‘Praise’ and ‘All That I Am, All I Can Be’ (SASB 568) to be sung by the congregation. – AZ
was enrolled as a junior soldier by Major Emma Knights (William Booth College), who also journeyed with her through the preparation course. Farrah helped shape the meeting by choosing several songs, and she wrote and led her own object lesson, encouraging the whole congregation to participate in the message. – GD
KEMI Ehigbochie was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Lieutenant Mary Dunn. Kemi shared how she had found a warm welcome, genuine love and a true sense of belonging, and felt ready to take this next step in her discipleship journey. Wanting the celebration to include those on the edges of our church community, she personally reached out and invited them to be part of the day. – GD
LYNNE McCormick was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader Captain Sian Wood. Lynne first attended the corps as a child with her nan and, in recent years, has returned. She wanted to make this next step on her faith journey, speaking of the warmth of the fellowship, through which she has come to experience more of God’s love and know his embrace. Lynne chose Hillsong’s ‘Cornerstone’ as a declaration of her commitment to Christ, her firm foundation. – SW
