Journey to the Holy Land
McArthurs Receive Order of the Founder
Why Youth Abandon the Church
Salvationist The Voice of the Army
Salvationist.ca I February 2011
Rebirth of a Nation
Your Partners in Mission donation supplies water, education and health care in Liberia
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PRODUCT LABELING GUIDE
10 The Advocate
Stephen Lewis is a tireless warrior in the fight FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL against HIV-AIDS
13 Rebirth of a Nation Departments 4 Editorial
Tawanda—We Are Many
by John McAlister
5 Around the Territory 12 Global Village
Faith Despite Persecution
by Major Etta y Gaymo
27 Celebrate Community Enrolment and recognition, tribute, calendar, gazette
30 Army Roots
After being ravaged by war, Liberia embraces a new season of peace and stability by Art Nickel
18 Journey to the Holy Land
Missional Oversight
On a pilgrimage to Israel and Egypt, 42 officers experience the biblical narratives in a powerful and vivid way
by Lt-Colonel Maxwell Ryan
by Major Betty Ann Lewis
31 Rethinking Church
20 Sweet Communion
The Times They Are a-Changin’
by Captain Deana Zelinsky
16 Personal Reflections
At the Brengle Institute, officers gather to discuss holiness and seek spiritual renewal by Major (Dr.) Dawn Howse
21 Order of the Founder Awarded to McArthurs
Why Pray?
by Commissioner William W. Francis
17
17 Clarion Call
Robert and Shirley McArthur are recognized for their work in the Caribbean Territory by Julia Hosking
23 Creative Change
Fundraising ideas to help you reach your Partners in Mission goal
The Heart of the Army
by Julia Hosking
by Major Fred Ash
24 Goodbye, Church
22 Media Reviews 22 Prayer Guide Inside Faith & Friends Stage Presence
In life and work, opera director Joel Ivany knows who is behind the scenes
The Holy Rollers
Filling a need gave new life to this eight-person painting crew
The Greatest Story Ever (Re)Told
YHWH is a fresh way to look at the Bible
16
Why so many young people are abandoning the faith … and what to do about it by Drew Dyck Cover photo: Art Nickel
When you finish reading Faith & Friends in the centre of this issue, pull it out and give it to someone who needs to hear about Christ’s life-changing power Faith &
frıends
February 2011
www.faithandfriends.ca
Inspiration for Living
Holy Rollers Mix Painting and Faith THe GReaTesT sToRy eveR (Re)Told
an olympian’s struggle
Stage Presence In life and work, opera director Joel Ivany knows Who is behind the scenes
Salvationist.ca Access more Partners in Mission (PIM) resources online at Salvationist.ca/ partnersinmission
over 400 images from the Army’s work in Liberia. Listen to 13 MP3 audio tracks of Liberian music. Print PIM posters to display at church or home
Videos
Children’s Activities
Watch a feature video of the Army’s work in Liberia, as well as shorter videos focusing on education, medical mobile clinics, water wells and music
Photos, Music and Posters
The PIM photo gallery includes
Download the Penelope Green Loves the Ocean storybook for children
Higlight the Need
Share the PowerPoint presentations with your church or small group Salvationist I February 2011 I 3
Editorial
Tawanda—We Are Many
A
few years ago, my wife, Rochelle, and I were living in Harare, Zimbabwe. I served as the literary secretary and Rochelle was the HIV-AIDS co-ordinator for the Zimbabwe Territory. For years we had contributed to the Army’s Partners in Mission Campaign (formerly known as self-denial); now we were seeing firsthand how the money was used to support other territories. During the two years we lived in Zimbabwe, the country faced considerable economic and political challenges. While we certainly never suffered, we were not immune to the ongoing shortages of food, medical supplies, water and electricity. More significantly, we lived alongside Zimbabweans who faced these challenges without the access we had to extra income or resources. Tawanda was one of my favourite people in Zimbabwe. Although only four, he would often show up at our home to visit. As he only spoke Shona, spending time with him helped me to learn the language as we worked in the garden together or watched movies on my laptop. Tawanda means “we are many” in Shona, signifying that he was the fifth and youngest child in his family. Soon after we arrived in Zimbabwe, Tawanda’s family invited us to have a meal with them. While the cow intestines were
a bit of a departure from our usual dinner fare, we appreciated the opportunity to share in fellowship with them. Over the next two years, we developed a close relationship with this family. Just over two years later, when Rochelle was five months pregnant with our son, Kieran, The Salvation Army in Canada became concerned about our safety and suggested we return home. It was not easy to leave our Zimbabwean friends, particularly as it was a difficult time in the country. A few months later, Rochelle and Kieran required emergency medical attention during the delivery, so I’m grateful that we had returned to Canada and had access to exceptional health care. Kieran’s middle name is Tinashe, which means “God is with us” in Shona. Last year, during Holy Week in a rural community in Zimbabwe, Tawanda woke up with stomach pains.Without easy access to qualified medical professionals—nor the means to pay for it—Tawanda’s family could do little for him. A few hours later, he passed away. In just a few short years, Tawanda had brought so much joy to his family and friends. For those of us who knew and loved him, we felt an immediate emptiness in our hearts. A void not easily filled or understood. While I cherish the health benefits my family can access here in Canada, I’m saddened that there are so many children in the world like Tawanda who die young, often for lack of access to basic medical attention or the resources to pay for it. The needs of the world are overwhelming, but we are not alone. Through the Partners in Mission Campaign (see pages 8-9), we can help ensure that The Salvation Army has the resources available to support the development of communities around the world. Now at work in 122 countries, the Army is poised to make a positive impact in those areas hardest hit by poverty. Tawanda. We are many. John McAlister Senior Editor
Salvationist
is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Shaw Clifton General Commissioner William W. Francis Territorial Commander Major Jim Champ Editor-in-Chief Geoff Moulton Assistant Editor-in-Chief John McAlister Senior Editor (416-467-3185) Major Max Sturge Associate Editor (416-422-6116) Timothy Cheng Art Director Pamela Richardson Production and Distribution Co-ordinator, Copy Editor Julia Hosking, Ken Ramstead, Captain Debbie Sinclair Contributors Agreement No. 40064794, ISSN 1718-5769. Member, The Canadian Church Press. All Scripture references from the Holy Bible, Today’s New International Version (TNIV) © 2001, 2005 International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide. All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory and can be reprinted only with written permission.
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Mission
The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Salvationist informs readers about the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. Salvationist.ca Salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org Facebook.com/salvationistmagazine Twitter.com/salvationist
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AROUND THE TERRITORY
Celebrating the Past and Anticipating the Future in P.E.I. On September 26, 1894, William Booth preached to Salvationists from the pulpit of Trinity United Church, formerly a Wesleyan church, in Charlottetown, P.E.I. On Friday, September 24, 2010, Commissioners William W. and Marilyn D. Francis, territorial leaders, stood at the same pulpit to honour the past and celebrate the 125th anniversary of The Salvation Army’s ministry in the province. During the celebrations, Commissioners Francis were
supported by Majors Larry and Velma Martin, divisional leaders, Major Stan Folkins, area commander, and Lieutenants Ian and Deanna Scott, corps officers at Charlottetown Community Church. The celebrations included a visit on Saturday to the Summerside Corps and its various ministry facilities. At a reception with city dignitaries present, Mayor Basil Stewart congratulated the Army on its achievements. “We have a better world because of your efforts,” he said, noting that the corps in Summerside received the city’s volunteer of the year award in 2009 because its soup kitchen, food bank and thrift store are all manned by volunteers. In the evening, a dinner and Christian concert were held at the Murphy Centre in Charlottetown. A worship team and the Fairview Citadel Band supported the singing. Richard Brown, provincial environment minister, spoke appreciatively of how the Army has worked with the province on the home heating assistance program that helps low-income residents with heating costs during the winter months. Father Floyd Gallant spoke on behalf of the churches of Prince Edward Island, wishing the Army continued success in its community outreach. Commissioner William Francis encouraged Salvationists to keep God at the forefront of their lives. “Every corps has all the spiritual gifts it needs,” he said. “It’s up to you to use them to work for God.” Major Larry Martin stressed that Salvationists need to discover what God has in store for their future and build a legacy that will be celebrated in the years to come. Junior soldiers Lesley Evison and Ayren Scott receive congratulations from Commissioner William Francis during the 125th anniversary in Prince Edward Island
Commissioner William Francis stands at the pulpit in Charlottetown, P.E.I., from which William Booth preached in 1894
Mountain Citadel Celebrates 20 Years of Ministry Colonels Floyd and Tracey Tidd, chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries, and the Canadian Staff Band were the guests for Mountain Citadel’s 20th anniversary on October 2-3, in Hamilton, Ont. At a Saturday afternoon tea and reception, people took a trip down memory lane as they viewed special display boards that outlined previous and current programs. Former corps officers Majors Doug and Joanne Binner and Majors Lloyd and Ellen Boone brought greetings during the anniversary supper in the evening, and Colonel Floyd Tidd shared a devotional message. The Canadian Staff Band then performed an evening of inspirational music. A singing group made up of former songsters also participated, singing pieces as such It is Well and I Dare to be Different.
In the Sunday morning service, the singing company performed and Colonel Floyd Tidd challenged Salvationists to move forward in their walk with God through
prayer. The weekend’s celebrations concluded with a praise meeting in the afternoon, featuring Mountain Citadel’s senior and YP bands and timbrel brigade.
The Canadian Staff Band performs during anniversary celebrations Salvationist I February 2011 I 5
AROUND THE TERRITORY
Seniors Unlimited at Agincourt Toronto’s Agincourt Community Church started its Seniors Unlimited ministry through funding from the New Horizons for Seniors Program, a federal government initiative that ensures seniors can contribute to the quality of life in their
communities through active living and participation in social activities. “Sue Chin, our co-ordinator, speaks English, Taiwanese, Cantonese and Mandarin,” says Major James Anderson, corps officer. “Sue was an answer to prayer as she not only speaks the languages, but also has a heart for ministry. Since its beginning in April 2010, we have seen scores of community persons come to our Seniors Unlimited Two participants in Seniors Unlimited at Agincourt Community Church play a Chinese erhu and a bamboo flute
program. It has been a joy to hear people singing gospel songs, involving themselves in worship and offering prayer and support for each other.” The group’s activities include the slow exercise movements of tai chi, ballroom dancing, health and well-being seminars, information sessions regarding immigration and settlement, Bible study cell groups and outdoor nature walks. “In a Sunday service we were able to hear the group exuberantly singing wonderful songs of faith in the Mandarin language,” says Major Anderson. “Feeling that they belonged seemed to overwhelm them, and their smiling faces touched us all. We believe that God will continue to bless this ministry for the benefit of our church and the wider community.”
Radical Love at B.C. Youth Retreat
Hope in the City Breakfast in Ottawa
The theme for the Youth Together retreat in the British Columbia Division was Radical Love, based on Romans 5:8, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” One hundred and fifty-six youth soaked up relevant biblical teaching from guest speaker Captain Kyle Smith from Spokane, Washington, U.S.A. Western Territory, and participated in exciting worship and fellowship. “The music group, My Dearest Friends, led us into deep spiritual places with their indie-style music and brought us a little closer to understanding God’s radical love through worship,” says Nicole Brindle, a leader at the event. Cadet Bethany Howard spoke about how God’s grace healed her from cancer. “Youth Together helped me grow in my faith and realize how important it is to have God in my life,” says youth participant Noah Russell. Prayer was a focus for the event with some youth groups praying in the early hours of the morning. Delegates from the War College in Vancouver also arranged for three hours of intentional prayer at the conclusion of the event. Many youth testified that this experience was spiritually formative and brought them closer to the Lord. Other weekend highlights were the silence and solitude hour and the “cardboard testimonies” focus, with one side of a piece of cardboard reflecting participants’ lives before Christ and the reverse side showing the change. “Youth Together was an amazing experience,” says Jessica Macdonald. “It challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and grow in my faith. It is a place where we can be who we want to be, and no one will judge us.” “It was an inspiring weekend of worship,” agrees Captain Carson Decker, divisional youth secretary. “B.C. youth are passionate and sincere.”
The Salvation Army held its inaugural Hope in the City Breakfast at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa to mark the 125th anniversary of its ministry in the nation’s capital and to launch the Christmas fundraising season. Guest speaker Dr. Jeff Turnbull, Canadian Medical Association president and Ottawa Hospital chief-of-staff, spoke passionately about the direct connection between poverty and health. Dr. Turnbull is the co-founder and medical director of the Inner City Health project, an initiative that provides primary medical care to homeless men and women at Ottawa shelters. Inner City Health operates a special care unit within The Salvation Army’s Ottawa Booth Centre, a 30-bed facility that treats homeless men with complex health conditions such as HIV-AIDS, heart disease and diabetes. Also, an appreciation award was presented to Tannis Food Distributors to recognize their generosity toward the Army. The company supplies food to The Salvation Army’s Ottawa Booth Centre and Grace Manor.
6 I February 2011 I Salvationist
From left, at the Hope in the City Breakfast in Ottawa, Mjr Doug Smith, AC, Ont. CE Div; Dr Jeff Turnbull; Councillor Keith Egli; Mayor Jim Watson; Councillor Marianne Wilkinson; Michael Maidment, public relations and development director, National Capital Region
AROUND THE TERRITORY
A Happy Tree in St. John’s The Salvation Army and the Avalon Mall in St. John’s, N.L., have partnered with local radio station VOCM and the VOCM Cares Foundation for over 40 years to collect and distribute toys at Christmas for needy children. For one month leading up to Christmas, a Happy Tree is set up at centre court in the mall for shoppers to leave unwrapped gifts in a large collection bin next to the tree. The tree has become popular with children, and in recent years, a local volunteer sometimes steps inside the tree and speaks to the children at different times throughout the day. Many local groups and businesses also hold toy drives and give cash donations for this project. These items are picked up by a VOCM Cares staff member and delivered to The Salvation Army for sorting and packaging. On November 27-28, Memorial University of Newfoundland’s Sea-Hawks men’s and women’s basketball teams played against other teams to help raise funds for gifts for the toy program. The university’s enforcement officers and students also collected a truckload of gifts. The Salvation Army in St. John’s anticipated providing toys and hampers for over 1,000 families this past Christmas. “And the need continues to increase,” says Major Donnette Percy, the Army’s director of community and family services. “There were more smiles on Christmas morning because of these donations.” Happy Tree projects are also held in areas outside the capital city. In these cases, staff members of the local radio stations CHCM Marystown, CKCM Grand Falls-Windsor, CKVO Clarenville and CHVO Carbonear co-ordinate the endeavour for their particular areas.
Memorial University of Newfoundland’s Sea-Hawks men’s and women’s basketball teams raised funds for the Christmas toy program. “Sammy the Sea-Hawk” was on hand to help celebrate the day
Participating in the Toronto launch of the Christmas Kettle Appeal are the Ont. CE divisional public relations and development team, Christmas carollers, a brass ensemble and representatives from Redpath Sugar Ltd., who provided refreshments to all attendees
World’s Largest Kettle Unveiled in Toronto Ontario Central-East Division unveiled the world’s largest Christmas kettle during Toronto’s 2010 Christmas kettle launch at Yonge-Dundas Square, having transported the massive, drum-like replica from Salem, Ohio. It is 2.4 metres in diameter, stands 1.55 metres tall, weighs 1,270 kilograms and can hold $800,000 in quarters. “The visual image of the kettle is a poignant reminder of the Christmas season and how The Salvation Army brings hope and dignity to the marginalized by partnering with the community,” says Captain John Murray, divisional secretary for public relations and development. The Toronto Raptors Dance Pak performed and several corporations made donations to the kettle, officially kicking off the campaign. Hundreds of people attended the celebration, which was covered by all major media outlets in the Greater Toronto Area. The 400 Army kettles in stores and shopping centres in the GTA are manned by over 2,000 bell-ringers. “It was appropriate to have the world’s largest kettle here for the launch because The Salvation Army had set the highest goal in our history: $3 million for the kettle campaign,” says Captain Murray. “It’s a lot of money, but people should remember that when making a donation they are investing in people, many of whom need help throughout the year meeting basic needs such as meals, shelter and clothing. Some of the funds helped cover Christmas expenses for disadvantaged families and send children to summer camp.”
Encounter the Lands of the Bible Israel and Greece
The Prince George Salvation Army Community Church
(including a 5-day cruise to the Greek Islands) With Majors Woody and Sharon Hale October 17–November 1, 2011
90th Anniversary June 3-5, 2011
For more information, see the next issue of Salvationist, visit www.creativeventures.ca, e-mail wshale@sympatico.ca, write 138 Huntington Cres, Courtice ON L1E 3C5 or phone 905-440-4378
Help us celebrate with Majors Robert and Shirley Ratcliff and the Gospel Brass Band
“We both feel this Holy Land experience will have a profound effect on our daily walk with God.” —F. and G. W., St. John’s, N.L., 2010 Tour
Greetings from former officers and friends can be sent to 777 Ospika Blvd, Prince George BC V2M 3R5; phone: 250-564-4000 Salvationist I February 2011 I 7
Photo: © istockphoto.com
Extravagant Giving Through the Partners in Mission Campaign, the Canada and Bermuda Territory helps support the international work of The Salvation Army BY MAJOR GILLIAN BROWN
S
eparated by just nine verses, Luke recounts Jesus’ encounter with two “rich” men (see Luke 18:18-19:110). The first was a successful, God-fearing man who kept the Ten Commandments, someone of whom everyone would surely speak well. The second man, a tax collector, was considered a traitor for working with the government that oppressed his people, even making a good profit from his collusion. As the God of surprises, Jesus tells the man with the respectable credentials that life is more than just following rules and is meant to be lived generously loving our neighbours. Then he invites himself 8 I February 2011 I Salvationist
to a meal at the house of Zacchaeus, a “sinner.” Stunned by Jesus’ willingness to visit him in his home, Zacchaeus makes the extraordinary promise to give half of his income to the poor. Extravagant, even outrageous, giving is found not only within Scripture, but from time-to-time we find ourselves surprised by the generosity of family, friends or even perfect strangers, challenging our own attitudes to giving. Last year, Salvationists and friends of the Army generously supported the international work of The Salvation Army. Although we did not achieve our $2.2 mil-
lion goal for the Partners in Mission (PIM) Campaign, we came close, with many ministry units across the territory increasing their giving by significant amounts. As we launch the 2011 PIM Campaign, we invite Salvation Army congregations across the territory to raise funds to ensure that the infrastructure of The Salvation Army has the financial support required to carry out its mission around the world. The difference these funds make can be seen in places such as Haiti, where the Army’s long history of ministry in the country meant that local Salvationists immediately responded to the earthquake
last year, caring for neighbours even before the international community was involved. The earthquake in Haiti was only the first of a series of natural disasters that created chaos in countries already struggling with much of their population living in poverty. In every case, the long-term presence of The Salvation Army meant that there was an immediate response to those in need. The money raised through PIM provides a financial basis for The Salvation Army to maintain a presence in countries hardest hit by natural or man-made disasters. Partners in Mission also positively impacts countries in Africa, Asia and South America, where many of our territory’s community development projects are implemented. The proclamation of God’s love is shared within the context of communities empowered to improve the living standards of the poorest. Community development projects require a solid infrastructure to be in place so that projects are well planned and managed, effective and accountable.
The long-term presence of The Salvation Army meant that there was an immediate response to those in need The Canada and Bermuda Territory partners with Mexico; Tanzania; Liberia and Sierra Leone; Germany; Spain; Hong Kong and Macau; and Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar. While our territory responds to needs in many other countries, we have a special responsibility to support these seven territories financially and in prayer. Every ministry unit has been sent a PIM resource package to help promote this important fundraising campaign. This year the focus is on Liberia (see pages 12-15), a country that has experienced many years of civil war. Liberia remains one of the 10 poorest countries in the world. Roads are impassable for much of the year and communication systems are primitive, isolating rural communities from basic health care, education and other supports. For many Liberians, an unwavering faith not only carried them through these dark days, but continues to be their source of strength as the country struggles to rebuild. The DVD resource features the
music of Liberia, as well as a unique partnership between Salvationist musicians in Liberia and young Canadian musicians from the National Music and Gospel Arts Camp in August 2010. Together, they sing the same song, Canada Joins In, that acknowledges we belong to God. As you listen, it will lift your spirit and perhaps inspire you to add your own voice. The DVD resource and accompanying printed materials are packed with stor-
ies that will encourage us to pray for our extended family in Liberia and the many other countries where Jesus is proclaimed through the ministry of The Salvation Army. With prayer comes action, and you are invited to give generously to the PIM Campaign so that the territorial goal of $2.2 million will be reached. Major Gillian Brown is the director of world missions, THQ.
Message From the Territorial Commander “Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth.” When was the last time you prayed the Lord’s Prayer? This prayer that Jesus taught is full of meaning for me, matching my hearts’ yearning for God’s will to be done on earth. This has been a year when we have been confronted with the suffering inflicted on millions of people worldwide, starting with the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile and then the devastating flooding in Pakistan. The forces of nature have not been the only cause of the suffering experienced through 2010 as we have witnessed man’s inhumanity to one another with civil war, acts of terrorism and ethnically based violence. The Scriptures speak of all of nature groaning for God’s will to be done, and there are days when we can almost hear the moans of creation itself. The Lord’s Prayer gives us hope and is a glorious reminder that the Kingdom, power and glory belong to God. The timing is his as well as the assurance that weeping will turn to joy, and distress to peace. Through prayer we are invited to work in co-operation with God’s Spirit to usher in the Kingdom. For Salvationists and friends of the Army, one of the opportunities to address the needs of the world, as we long for God’s Kingdom to come, is by financially supporting the Partners in Mission Campaign. The Salvation Army has a caring presence in 122 countries worldwide. Many of these countries are dependent on our support in order to maintain their ministry, which combines sharing the good news of the gospel message with a practical response to social issues. The goal for the 2011 PIM Campaign is $2.2 million. A resource package has already been mailed to every ministry unit, this year introducing Liberia, one of our partner territories. Take time to review the material and plan your local campaign. I urge you to give prayerful consideration to ensuring that we meet our obligations to be good neighbours to our Salvationist comrades in grant-aided territories. Sincerely yours, William W. Francis, Commissioner TERRITORIAL COMMANDER
Partners in Mission On the Web
All of the Partners in Mission resources are also available online at Salvationist. ca/partnersinmission. Additional articles, reports and videos will be published in the coming months. Let us know what your corps or ministry unit is doing to raise money for PIM. Your feedback could be an encouragement to others as we work together as a territory to support the Army’s mission around the world. Salvationist I February 2011 I 9
The Advocate
Stephen Lewis is a tireless warrior in the fight against HIV-AIDS The statistics are sobering and almost impossible to comprehend. Around the world, there are 33 million people living with the HIV-AIDS virus—almost 24 million of them in Africa alone— and more than 25 million people have already died. For every person put into treatment, there are two new infections, so the crisis is outstripping the world’s capacity to respond. It’s been referred to as the worst pandemic in modern history. For more than two decades, Stephen Lewis has worked with the United Nations to combat this dreaded disease. From 1995 to 1999, he was the deputy executive director of UNICEF and from 2001 to 2006, he was the U.N. Secretary-General’s special envoy for HIV-AIDS in Africa. Now a distinguished visiting professor at Ryerson University in Toronto, he is the co-founder and co-director of AIDS-Free World and the board chair of the Stephen Lewis Foundation (www.stephen 10 I February 2011 I Salvationist
lewisfoundation.org), which is dedicated to turning the tide of HIV-AIDS in Africa. Salvationist recently interviewed Stephen Lewis in Toronto. How familiar are you with the work of The Salvation Army? For me, the experience of The Salvation Army has been frequently on the ground in
Africa, dealing with the pandemic of HIV-AIDS. The work of the Army in Africa is quite extraordinary—in the villages, the hospitals and the health centres—and they get the job done. The Salvation Army’s Howard Hospital in Zimbabwe, for instance, is one of the best hospitals in the country dealing with HIV-AIDS. You can’t imagine the contribution the
There are trillions of dollars available to bail out banks, for stimulus packages, to fight wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and deal with terrorism and oil spills, but there’s never even a microscopic portion of that available for global public health
Army has made to reducing the HIV-AIDS rates in Zimbabwe. There, as elsewhere, the Army functions at the grassroots and community level. What is the greatest challenge Western governments face in terms of AIDS? Resources. There’s just no question that we’re on the cusp of defeating the pandemic. We know how to do it, we have the drugs to prolong life, we know more and more about prevention, and we have hope for a vaccine. A breakthrough is possible, but the resources are drying up at precisely the moment we need them most, and that’s a criminal delinquency on the part of the West. If we’re on the verge of a breakthrough, what more needs to be done? We need the donor countries
Photo: Anurita Bains
Stephen Lewis and students at Sibuyeni Kagogo Centre, Swaziland
Does it all come down to more money? It’s not that money is the only answer. We know how to train people, we know how to improve infrastructure, we
know what drugs are effective. We even know a lot about prevention, education, male circumcision and so on. But none of that is possible without help. Africa is a continent of a billion people, 700 million of whom live on less than a dollar a day. How can they possibly manage if there isn’t some sort of continuing help? What is the role of faithbased organizations in the fight against AIDS? Faith-based organizations are primarily effective at the community level, working with community health workers who care for those living with AIDS and orphaned chil-
“Who Will Rescue Them?”
It’s important and appropriate that The Salvation Army, which does such a remarkable job in responding to the frailties of the human condition, understands its tremendous contribution to society. It’s intense, heartfelt, humanitarian and decent. I recently read a newspaper report stating that child poverty increased by 15 percent between 2008 and 2009. How is it possible that we have so many children living below the poverty line? How can it be adequately explained? How can we live in a society which, by and large, has a great deal of privilege and opportunity yet still consigns so many people to lives of desperation? Who rescues them? Who shows compassion? Who is there when so much is needed? We turn and we find The Salvation Army. Driven by deep and profound religious and spiritual instincts, The Salvation Army is always there in a society that, let’s face it, is struggling and will struggle more in the next year or two as we attempt to rebound from economic hardship. I’m glad to have the opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary work that is being done here in the city, in the province and in the country. I may be on the other side of the Judeo-Christian equation, but I’m sure the prophets would approve of you!
Photo: Kellan Higgins
Excerpts from a speech given by Stephen Lewis in November at the annual Salvation Army Hope in the City breakfast in Toronto:
Photo: Gillian Mathurin
to do for public health what they do for everything else. There are trillions of dollars available to bail out banks, for stimulus packages, to fight wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and deal with terrorism and oil spills, but there’s never even a microscopic portion of that available for global public health. And that’s the tragedy, that the priorities are so wrong, that human beings are so expendable in the midst of the financial crisis.
Stephen Lewis and two young children in Kenya
dren—16.6 million orphans live in sub-Saharan Africa alone—making sure people get their drugs and adhere to the regimen. All of these things are what faith-based organizations do so well and that’s why they have a role to play. The Salvation Army is concentrating its efforts on community-based approaches. Is this an effective strategy in your eyes? Without being a romantic about it, it’s the communitybased interventions that will one day turn the pandemic around. Obtaining the billions and billions of dollars for the drugs, the infrastructure, the training and the prevention is important. But at the grassroots where people live and die, where the struggle for survival is most intense, that’s where The Salvation Army comes into play, where they give people hope and support. That’s key because the strength at the community level is much greater than anyone in the Western world appreciates. There’s tremendous intelligence and sophistication at the local level in Africa but it is not widely acknowledged. If you had one thing to say to our Salvationist readers, what would it be? That it’s important to understand the extraordinary work the Army does in Canada deal-
ing with poverty, hunger, the homeless and battered women. These are the groups of vulnerable individuals who really rely on your compassion, decency and resources to get through life, day after day. But what’s extremely important for your readers to understand is that The Salvation Army is in 122 countries and what you do around the world is equally important. Therefore, when you’re supporting the Army in Canada, by extension, you’re supporting its work everywhere, and that’s invaluable. Why are you so committed to the struggle against AIDS? How can I be so self-indulgent as to worry about my own place in this planet when there are people struggling for survival? I want to be part of that struggle. What has been your greatest accomplishment in this fight? I think it’s just being able to be a voice, being able to be an advocate on the issues that don’t normally get dealt with openly in the U.N. system. I was given an opportunity to speak boldly and unequivocally in the U.N. It bothered a lot of people, frankly, but it was a tremendous opportunity to have the issues aired. What I feel best about is just having been an advocate. Salvationist I February 2011 I 11
GLOBAL VILLAGE
Faith Despite Persecution
Taken hostage by rebel soldiers in Liberia, I am a Salvation Army officer who witnessed firsthand the suffering of my people BY MAJOR ETTA Y GAYMO
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hile my Christian life began in another denomination, I came to The Salvation Army when I met my husband. He was a Salvationist who felt the call of God to officership. After a period of time, I also felt called to be an officer. As there was no training college in Liberia, my husband, Ben, and I went to the Ghana Territory to receive our officer training. Training college was difficult because when we began our training, Liberia was in peace, but war broke out soon after. We were greatly discouraged because all of our family was living in Liberia. The Salvationists in Ghana gave us words of comfort and encouragement. During this time we received news of the death of my mother and my only son, who had come to us after 10 years of barrenness. This was one of the greatest pains I ever had in life, and almost led to the decision to return home rather than continuing with my training. The Lord and my session-mates were with me in these difficult, dark days of sadness, comforting and encouraging me. We were commissioned on August 18, 1991. By this time a ceasefire had been declared and so my husband and I were appointed home to Liberia. When we arrived, there were dead bodies on the streets of Monrovia, the capital city. The ceasefire remained in place for almost a year until war broke out once more. We were then in our second appointment in a
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rural corps outside of Monrovia. We were cut off from the command headquarters for the next two and a half years. Taken hostage by the rebel army along with eight Salvationists from various corps, our small group was threatened daily. The rebel soldiers did not provide food or shelter. For three months we slept on the porch of a house, but mostly we slept under make-shift coverings in the bush, asking for food from the few farms that still had crops. The men had to hide indoors, because if they were caught they would
Although the rebels took everything we had, they did not take our Bibles
Mjr Etta y Gaymo
have been marched to the battlefront. Although the rebels took everything we had, they did not take our Bibles or commissioning flags, as we hid them by tying them beneath our clothing. While the rebels did not prevent Christians from meeting together, they were highly suspicious that these meetings would be used to plot against them. Nonetheless, we found unique ways to encourage fellow Salvationists and
Christians. We were threatened by the soldiers, but God was on our side and we survived the war. My officership has been loaded with many persecutions, but I consider them challenges and opportunities that have made me strong in my faith. I want to encourage you that if you find yourself in trouble, remain faithful to the Lord. Our labour for the Lord is not in vain. Since peace returned to Liberia, the Lord has blessed us with two sons.
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Rebirth of a Nation
After being ravaged by war, Liberia embraces a new season of peace and stability by Art Nickel, Media Producer, THQ Public Relations and Development
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uring 14 years of civil war, Liberia became synonymous with genocide, child soldiers and blood diamonds. When peace was declared in 2003, the west-African nation began the challenging process of restoring its people, land and economy. With a population of only 3.4 million people and very little industry, Liberia’s progress seems slow. Unemployment is 85 percent and the average income is less than $2 per day. The average life expectancy is only 42 years and Liberia is ranked in the bottom 10 percent of countries on the human development index. But Liberia is young in spirit and there is an eagerness to grow. Since commencing its work in the country in 1988, The Salvation Army continues to flourish and there is much hope for the future. The following photo essay was taken during a visit last year by the THQ world missions project team.
The Salvation Army operates a vocational technical training centre in Monrovia. With 400 students registered, the training centre teaches employable skills such as plumbing, electrical and tailoring Salvationist I February 2011 I 13
WATER
MEDICAL
A nurse at the William Booth Medical Clinic in Paynesville addresses maternity issues
Mjr Youngar drinks clean water from a Canadian sponsored well at the remote Mount Coffee Corps
Women often have to carry water for many hours over great distances. In many communities, clean, safe water is difficult to find
The mobile medical clinic visits the Mount Coffee community about twice a month. The waits can be long as up to 250 patients are often seen in one day. In addition to offering medical attention, nurses dispense medicine to patients and provide nutritional supplements to children
SCHOOLS/EDUCATION Limited facilities in rural areas such as Kakata often mean that over 140 students have to share one room that is divided into several classes. But they are the fortunate ones. In Liberia, it is estimated that only 37.5 percent of children are currently enrolled in primary school
Children at the William Booth Primary School are eager to learn. It is one of 12 Salvation Army schools operated in Liberia and has over 3,300 students registered. Textbooks and lab materials are still scarce in many schools as most were destroyed during the war 14 I February 2011 I Salvationist
Salvationist I February 2011 I 14
CORPS
Lts Emmanuel and Debbie Kwashie are proud to lead the rural Arthington Corps
Sunday worship at the Cotton Tree Corps is vibrant and full of energy
MUSIC
A massed choir sings after a service at the Paynesville Corps. During a visit to Liberia, several groups and soloists were recorded and many of the songs can be heard as mp3s or viewed as videos as a bonus feature on the 2011 Partners in Mission DVD that is sent to every ministry unit
Visit Salvationist.ca/partnersinmission or ask your corps officer to hear these songs and view some of the amazing music videos. Additional information and resources are also available online. Take time to learn more about Liberia and support this year’s Partners in Mission Campaign. Our partners are counting on us! Salvationist I February 2011 I 15
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
Why Pray?
Prayer is the central and essential vehicle through which God speaks to us BY COMMISSIONER WILLIAM W. FRANCIS
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s you read this sentence, there are millions of people around the world praying. The prayers are voiced in countless languages and in a myriad of cultures. While prayer is practised globally, it is also shrouded in mystery. Atheists and other skeptics conclude that there is no point in praying because no one is listening and, consequently, no one will answer. Yet those who do pray come to a shared conclusion: it works! The power of prayer is an essential tenant of our Christian faith. Beyond this basic assumption, we ask, “How does prayer work?” and “Why does it work?” How prayer works is a common theme in Scripture. Prayer finds its source in the heart of God, who longs to communicate with his creation. God instructs us to “pray continually” (see 1 Thessalonians 5:17). In place of continuous contact with our Maker, we often opt to say a brief grace before a meal, or a fleeting, somewhat obligatory prayer for those who are sick or grieving. Prayer can easily be perceived as a time of forced, boring and unproductive solitude. In our action-oriented culture, we hardly have enough time in the day for what must be accomplished. The duty to pray is effortlessly put aside with what we believe is a good rationale for action. Surely God understands our pressured, frenzied and often confused life, doesn’t he? His response? “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from Heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). Why pray? I suggest four reasons: Prayer honours God. Through prayer we worship God, giving him the praise and glory he deserves, and recognizing him as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. In honouring God, we humble ourselves as we bask in his holy presence. Prayer reveals God. In prayer, we reflect on God’s Word, which becomes “a lamp to [our] feet and a light for [our] path” (see Psalm 119:105). Prayer is the central and essential vehicle through which 16 I February 2011 I Salvationist
Prayer is our lifeline, helping us moment by moment to experience the wonder, power and beauty of God’s love God speaks to us. Phillip Henry, father of the renowned commentary author, Matthew Henry, observed: “God regards not elegance in prayer. He cares not how little there is of the head…. There is a great deal of the heart.” It is the heart that matters most in prayer. God longs to communicate with us “heart to heart.” Prayer fosters trust in God. In a day of distrust, when people closest to us let us down, we can count on God. The distinguished theologian, Soren Kierkegaard, prayed: “Father in Heaven, when the thought of you wakes in our hearts, let it not wake like a frightened
bird that flies about in dismay, but like a child waking from its sleep with a heavenly smile.” Prayer convinces us to calmly put our trust in God alone. Prayer promotes intimacy with God. As King David declared, “My soul thirsts for you” (see Psalm 63:1 NASB). Prayer leads to a closeness, oneness and intimate communion with God. Jesus is our example. He spoke intimately with the Father. Jesus assures us that “your Father knows what you need before you ask him” (see Matthew 6:8). God wants us to constantly be in “prayer mode.” Prayer is our lifeline, helping us moment by moment to discover and experience the wonder, power and beauty of God’s love. Through prayer, we honour and encounter God, who summons us to love and commune with him. Nothing in this world can compare to it. Commissioner William W. Francis is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
CLARION CALL
The Heart of the Army
The Salvation Army is like a box of Valentine chocolates by Major Fred Ash
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hristmas was hardly over when the stores began loading up their shelves with Valentine’s Day paraphernalia—chocolates, perfume, bows and, of course, hearts. Millions of hearts. Red hearts. Pink hearts. Chocolate hearts. Paper hearts. Hearts with lace. Hearts with bows. And, my favourite, heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. I love opening those heart-shaped boxes and discovering what is inside. I love the great variety of delicious delectables that tease the tummy and please the palate. At the end of the day there is never one sugary treat left; every one is appreciated with a smile and an mmmh. The Salvation Army is like a box of Valentine chocolates; it’s heart-shaped and filled with a variety of good things. Its heart shape comes from the fact that what it does is motivated by the love of God. In fact, our mission statement says the Army exists “to share the love of Jesus Christ.” So it is good for us to ask ourselves on a regular basis what kind of shape we are in. If we were square and rigid with sharp corners and clearly defined geometry, we would be an organization that is inflexible, strict and austere. We wouldn’t tolerate those who are different. We would discourage creativity. We would punish those who coloured outside the lines. We would silence those who wanted to do things differently. And every chocolate in the box would look the same. How boring that would be; and how ineffective our ministry. If we were round, like a ball, we would not fit into very many places. Spheres are hard to define. They are difficult to measure. And when you put things in them there is usually a lot of wasted space. If our organization were spherical, it would be bounced around “by every wind of teaching” (see Ephesians 4:14). It would not be able to remain stable and stand its ground when the world around it turns
upside down. It would be an organization that would be pushed around by the norms of society. And every chocolate in the sphere would turn to mush and all taste the same. Who could savour such a ministry? But we are neither square nor round. We are heart-shaped, incorporating both curves and straight lines. For this reason there should be a place for everyone. The strict, go-by-the-book people who like rules and regulations will feel at home along the straight edges. They fit in best in
We present to the general public a variety of ministries unequalled in any other Christian organization those ministries that are well defined, that have stringent guidelines and that allow them to mark their progress with statistics and graphs. The creative, throw-out-therulebook people whose theme song is Don’t Fence Me In will feel at home along the curves of our heart-shaped organization.
They fit in best in those ministries that are not well defined, that require out-of-thebox thinking, and whose success cannot be measured by numbers. The Salvation Army truly is the world’s Valentine box. We present to the general public a variety of ministries unequalled in any other Christian organization. Call me biased, but first and foremost is our corps ministry, our community churches. Perhaps it’s just my particular taste buds, but I think the bittersweet flavour of the corps is our tastiest treat. But some will prefer the community and family services and others the correctional and justice services. Some will appreciate the inner-city ministries best—their emergency response vehicles, soup vans, shelters for the homeless and addictions and rehabilitation centres. Some love the children and youth ministries, summer camps, music and recreation programs. I could go on and on, listing the great variety of ministries in our heart-shaped organization. If the box is the organization, and the chocolates are the ministries, then the officers, soldiers, employees and volunteers are the filling. As variety defines the ministries, so also does it define those who minister. We are not all alike. Some of us are soft and sweet like caramel; we go with the flow and everybody likes us. Some of us are hard like a cashew; we are nuts and tough to swallow. Some of us are like nougat; you don’t know what you’re getting until you bite into us, and then it takes some chewing to bring out the flavour. The general public loves this Valentine box that comes to them all year round. They like the great variety of ministries the Army offers. It’s up to us who are in the box to develop a taste for one another’s ministries and to make room for even more. Major Fred Ash is the corps officer at Burlington Community Church, Ont. Salvationist I February 2011 I 17
Journey to the Holy Land On a pilgrimage to Israel and Egypt, 42 officers experience the biblical narratives in a powerful and vivid way BY MAJOR BETTY ANN LEWIS
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s a Salvation Army officer who has served nationally and internationally for over 38 years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to witness for Christ and share the good news found in the Bible. I have experienced the wonder of God’s love, both in my life and in the lives of others. My visit to the Holy Land was an experience that solidified these experiences for me. I embarked on this journey from territorial headquarters as one of a group of 42 Salvation Army officers. Our pilgrimage was led by Commissioners William W. and Marilyn D. Francis, territorial leaders. We were promised that the Bible would come alive, and we weren’t disappointed. Following Christ’s Footsteps After almost 24 hours of travelling, we 18 I February 2011 I Salvationist
Salvation Army officers embark on a pilgrimage to discover the world of the gospels
arrived in Tel Aviv and were met with a “Welcome to Israel” sign. We had arrived in the Holy Land, eager and filled with anticipation. Every day we headed out on a new adventure. My comrades and I had the opportunity to visit various places that were significant to the ministry of Jesus as well as sites that played important roles in the Old Testament. Jesus may have walked on this earth over 2,000 years ago, but many of these sites stood out profoundly for me as they created a vivid picture of his mission and passion. Walking in the Steps of Jesus Soon after we arrived in Israel, we travelled to the mountains of Galilee. While hiking up the Mount of Beatitudes, we discovered that it was an area with great
acoustics where Jesus could have easily preached to a large crowd. We also visited the Church of the Beatitudes, built on the very spot where Jesus is believed to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5:1-12). Later, as we stood by the Sea of Galilee and sang the words from Catherine Baird’s hymn When Jesus Looked O’er Galilee, we recognized that we were indeed walking in the steps of the Master. We sailed on a boat out on the sea and were reminded of the Scripture verses that command us to “be still” and “do not be afraid.” While we drifted on the water, we were overwhelmed by the silence and tranquility of the moment. In the town of Capernaum, we visited places where Jesus performed some of his miracles, such as the healing of the para-
lyzed man (see Mark 2:1-12). We could easily visualize why the man was lowered through the roof because the door to the home was small and those that brought him wouldn’t have been able to carry him through. Another significant experience for me was the visit to Nazareth, Jesus’ boyhood home. While living in Nazareth, Jesus learned the trade of Joseph, the carpenter, his earthly father. When he was still young, Jesus travelled with his parents from there to Jerusalem to celebrate the Festival of the Passover. While returning to Nazareth, Jesus’ parents discovered that he was not with them, and they found him in the temple courts listening to the teachers and asking questions (see Luke 2:41-52). During his life, Jesus remained focused on the work of his heavenly Father. Throughout our pilgrimage, we would be privileged to retrace his steps. As we journeyed along the remote Jericho road from Jerusalem, I pictured the Parable of the Good Samaritan (see Luke 10:30-37) and reflected on how isolated the man who was beaten and robbed would have felt.
Jesus loved me so much that he was willing to die for me. Tears were visible on the faces of other group members. As Christians, we are called to be the best that we can be; the hands and feet of Jesus. These moments rekindled our calling as officers. The words “May I be willing, Lord, to bear daily my cross for thee,” were sung with heartfelt devotion. As we walked along the Via Dolorosa— the Way of the Cross—we reflected on the suffering of Jesus as he carried the cross and the pain that his mother endured as she watched. Even though it is now a busy road with shops on either side, it is easy to imagine the scene and picture the agony he must have undergone. When we visited the garden tomb where many believe Jesus was buried, we were able to proclaim his Resurrection. It is a place of hope and we celebrated that the tomb is empty. Jesus isn’t there; he has risen. We were asked to consider
how Peter must have felt when he met Jesus after denying him. Jesus would have restored his hope, for the love that Jesus had for Peter was overwhelming. He has that same love for us today. Final Reflections The journey to the Holy Land presented us with a powerful opportunity to experience what we have been preaching about for years. We also visited and experienced other wonderful sites such as the Church of St. Anne, the Pool of Bethesda, the shores of the Dead Sea and the wilderness site where Jesus was tempted. Throughout our trip to the Holy Land, we shared, reflected, sang, worshipped, prayed and renewed our calling to serve. Having been called to share the gospel, we were blessed to see firsthand where it all began. Major Betty Ann Lewis is the corps ministries secretary, THQ.
Contemplating the Passion of Christ A solemn spot filled with olive trees, the Garden of Gethsemane reminded us of the agony of Jesus. It was here that he prayed to his Father, knowing what he had to face in the following days (see Matthew 26:3646). As we prayed in silence, I imagined the thoughts that must have gone through Jesus’ mind. While we sat and sang, I asked myself, Am I worth it? I reflected on the fact that
Exodus to Egypt
On our trip we also travelled to Egypt, which provided the opportunity to retrace some significant Old and New Testament journeys. We followed the route that Joseph, Mary and the Baby Jesus travelled as they fled Bethlehem and Herod’s wrath. We followed the Israelites’ exodus from Goshen to Sinai. Six of our group members climbed to the top of Mount Sinai where they shared in a special time of devotion. Though this visit to Egypt encompassed more of an educational and historical spin—with camel rides and visits to the pyramids and Sphinx at Giza—we were reminded of the important biblical events in Egypt’s history as we reflected on many of the experiences of Moses.
Taking time to pause and reflect by the Sea of Galilee
Outside the tomb where many believe Jesus was buried and then rose from the dead Salvationist I February 2011 I 19
Sweet Communion
At the Brengle Institute, officers gather to discuss holiness and seek spiritual renewal BY MAJOR (DR.) DAWN HOWSE
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oliness. As Salvationists, we say we believe in it. But in these days of constant change, how do we ensure that holiness remains a priority in the Army? Every year, 30 Salvation Army officers attend the Brengle Institute to experience spiritual renewal and discuss incarnational holiness (holiness in the flesh). They study the meaning and biblical command to holiness, and consider what it means to us as individuals and collectively as part of the body of Christ. The weeklong seminar is named after Samuel Logan Brengle, an American officer whose life and writings emphasized the importance of holy living for every Christian. Our thinking and discussions were guided by Commissioners William W. and Marilyn D. Francis, territorial leaders; Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice, secretary for personnel; as well as Majors Mona Moore, Gail Winsor, 20 I February 2011 I Salvationist
Delegates and speakers at the 2010 Brengle Institute
Brian and Lynn Armstrong, Curtis Butler, David Ivany and Kevin Metcalf. On Sunday, we had a prescribed Sabbath set aside for us as a time to reflect on grace. Major Ivany gave us four quotations that will stay with me: “We are not human beings on a spiritual journey; we are spiritual beings on a human journey” (Pierre Teilhard de Chardin); “The physical without the spiritual lacks meaning; the spiritual without the physical lacks substance”; “The real me before the real God” (C.S. Lewis); “If we feed upon Jesus and his words, we shall be like a vessel in full sail with a fair wind” (François Fenelon). Many of us took advantage of the crisp autumn air and sunny skies to walk outside in sweet communion with Jesus, renewing that loving relationship and feeding on his presence and his Word. As well, each morning began with celebratory and communal
devotions, so the mood was set to explore our Salvation Army heritage of holiness. Speakers reminded us that the concept of holiness is not limited to the Old or New Testament. The command to holiness came from a holy God. He created humanity in his image, and gave Moses and Israel this standard: “Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy” (Leviticus 19:2). But because of sin, humanity went through cycles of despair and hope: ever striving and ever failing. Holiness is impossible without Jesus, who embodied the holy life and died to save us and make us holy as he gave to us his Holy Spirit. For Salvationists, holiness is lived out—it is an action word. We take our Christlikeness into our gift for service. Sometimes it may be at the cost of forgetting to deepen our own roots, but ours is a practical holiness. Major Butler reminded us that there is holy service in daily living and that
the holiness to which God calls us is the holiness he gives us. He shared the words of Anglican missionary Stephen Neill, “If we do not meet God in the most ordinary and banal of daily occupations we shall not meet him at all.” Major Metcalf reflected on the Church’s historical treatment of holiness and our Salvation Army heritage of Wesleyan teaching. “Rituals were not sufficient to the grace of God: Jesus + Anything = Heresy; True Christianity = Jesus + Nothing.” In soldiership preparation, the study of our doctrines is a constant reminder of the call to and possibility of holy living. “Our Wesleyan heritage obliges us to portray to the world the God who comes to the rescue in Christ,” he challenged. Commissioner William Francis took us through four sessions of Holiness Unto the Lord. He reminded us that “the Church began at Pentecost, not in 1865!” The Salvation Army does not have a monopoly on holiness, though we call ourselves a holiness movement. He quoted William Booth: “Wesley made Methodism not only by converting sinners, but by making well-instructed saints. We must follow in his tracks, or we are a rope of sand.” While each delegate treasured particular aspects of the week, this was my take-home message: My personal holiness is not of me but of God: because he is holy, has saved me through his Son, Jesus, and declares me his “lived-in vessel.” He makes me holy and keeps me holy: I just have to be willing and obedient. I can and will and do live a life of “perfect love” as I allow the Holy Spirit to indwell all of me and allow him to express Jesus through me. Major (Dr.) Dawn Howse is seconded to the medical community of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Order of the Founder Awarded to McArthurs
Robert and Shirley McArthur recognized for their work in the Caribbean Territory BY Julia Hosking, staff Writer
Photo: Mark Anthony
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n Saturday, December 4, Robert (Bob) and Shirley McArthur were presented with the Order of the Founder. They are only the fourth married couple to be given this award. The ceremony took place at the Christmas with The Salvation Army event held at Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall and hosted by the Ontario Central-East Division. Commissioners William W. and Marilyn D. Francis, territorial leaders, were proud to recognize the sacrifices made by the McArthurs, soldiers of North York Temple, over the past 25 years to aid the Caribbean Territory. Their interest in the territory began when they heard Caribbean missionaries explain the worsening conditions of Salvation Army facilities. “The Caribbean Territory is strong today in a real, positive sense because of Bob and Shirley McArthur,” said Commissioner William Francis after a photo slideshow demonstrating the work of the McArthurs was played for the congregation. For 25 years, the McArthurs led many mission trips to the Caribbean—restoring, renovating and building Salvation Army facilities. “Thirty-five units throughout the Caribbean are standing testimonies to the quiet, patient love and joy brought to that land by Bob and Shirley McArthur,” continued Commissioner Francis. As he presented the award, first to Bob, Commissioner Francis said, “It is my pleasure to present this most prestigious award in recognition of two decades of exemplary service to The Salvation Army and in acknowledgement of the selfless and sacrificial investment of personal resources.” Following a similar presentation to Shirley, Commissioner Marilyn Francis prayed for the couple. “Tonight we applaud the McArthurs, but they wouldn’t want applause for they gave because of the King of Kings who gave his life for them,” said Commissioner Marilyn Francis. “There are those in the
Commissioner William W. Francis presents Robert McArthur (pictured) and his wife, Shirley, with the Order of the Founder award
world whose lives are better because Bob McArthur and his lovely wife gave.” Bob and Shirley’s family, members of McArthur Properties, and Joel Turley, manager of the teams that go to the Caribbean for mission work, attended the event. The McArthurs have travelled to the Caribbean Territory for the purpose of renovating, repairing and rebuilding Salvation Army corps and social service buildings. Over and above the team members’ financial contributions, the McArthur’s have financed all projects from their own resources. Of notable mention is the McArthurs’ trip to Jamaica in 2007 where, in two weeks, the team built and constructed furnishings for Black Ness Corps. The team also redecorated and refurbished a day school attached to Savannah la Mar Corps and redecorated the officers’ quarters at Lennox Bigwoods Corps. Prior to departing on a mission trip, Bob visits the country to ensure adequate accommodation for the team of approximately 35 members, and organizes sup-
plies of building materials. If possible, these supplies are locally purchased to assist the country’s economy. Shirley actively supports Bob in this process through administration and trip organization. For a list of the missions conducted by the McArthurs, visit Salvationist.ca/mcarthurs.
History of the Award
The Order of the Founder was established by General Bramwell Booth in 1917 and first presented in 1920. In the 90 years since, there have been 241 recipients, an average of two or three awarded per year, with 23 of them—10 percent—Canadian (including the McArthurs). Before being awarded with the Order of the Founder, cases presented to International Headquarters are carefully researched and the award is only given to those officers and soldiers whose skillful and passionate work would have merited the attention and approval of The Salvation Army’s Founder, General William Booth. Salvationist I February 2011 I 21
MEDIA REVIEWS
Eric Metaxas As Adolf Hitler and the Nazis seduced a nation, bullied a continent and attempted to exterminate the Jews, a small number of dissidents worked to dismantle the Third Reich from the inside. One of these was Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a pastor and author who was executed for his part in the plot to assassinate Hitler. In the first major biography of Bonhoeffer in 40 years, New York Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas draws together both strands of Bonhoeffer’s life—the theologian and the spy—to tell a story of moral courage in the face of monstrous evil.
Prayer: The Communication of Love
Ian Southwell How can your prayer life be transformed from a ritual to a relationship? This workbook on prayer, by Australian author Lt-Colonel Ian Southwell, examines how our other, more familiar, relationships develop and then draws parallels with the dynamics of our relationship with God. Through a series of activities, questions, anecdotes and biblical reflections, you will be prompted to encounter God through prayer in fresh ways and step up to new levels in your relationship with God and with others. Copies may be purchased at www.salvationarmy.org.au/supplies.
Into the Mist: The Story of the Empress of Ireland
Anne Renaud From 1906 to 1914, the Empress of Ireland, one of the fastest and most elegant liners of the Edwardian era, graced the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Remembered primarily for sinking in only 14 minutes in the St. Lawrence River and for having a greater loss of passenger life than the Titanic, the Empress’ true legacy is the significant role it played in the building of Canada. Rich with photos, news clippings and other artifacts, Into the Mist is the story of the Empress of Ireland, of the many people who walked its decks, and how, in the early morning of May 29, 1914, it sank on the St. Lawrence River, taking with it 150 Salvationists.
Going Missional
Karen Stiller and Willard Metzger Going Missional tells the story of 13 diverse Canadian churches and their journey to embrace missional life. Karen Stiller, associate editor of Faith Today, teams up with Willard Metzger, director of church relations for World Vision Canada, to shed light on the challenges, successes, setbacks and victories of these churches and their leaders as they attempt to more fully serve their communities, locally and globally. Going Missional is a book about the hope, commitment and courage it takes for ordinary churches to do extraordinary things in a difficult time.
Friends Without Benefits: What Teens Need to Know About a Great Sex Life
Ron Luce Television, movies, music, advertisements ... our sex-obsessed culture bombards your teens with the message that “everybody’s doing it.” Ron Luce, president and founder of Teen Mania Ministries, has written a hard-hitting and relevant book that shares the lowdown on sex and emboldens young people with the conviction to pursue purity and speak out against immorality. Filled with honest stories and frank discussion of timely topics. 22 I February 2011 I Salvationist
Territorial Prayer Guide WEEK 1 - FEBRUARY 1-5 The Call to God’s Word • The Army will be in harmony with the Word of God • Salvationists will commit to preaching and studying the Bible • A love for God’s Word that will be shown in changed and motivated lives • Those who teach Scripture: corps officers, Sunday school teachers, Bible study leaders WEEK 2 - FEBRUARY 6-12 Persons in Leadership • The General-elect • International Headquarters leadership • Canada and Bermuda Territorial Headquarters leadership • Christian leaders would seek God for vision, wisdom and direction WEEK 3 - FEBRUARY 13-19 Maritime Division • Grace, wisdom and strength for divisional leaders Mjrs Larry and Velma Martin, and their team • Cpts Stephen and Karen Holland and staff at their corps, family services and thrift store in Bridgewater, N.S. • Cpts Chad and Kathleen Ingram and the Amherst Community Church outreach ministry • Cpts Tim and Krista Andrews, Halifax Citadel Community Church, and for new leadership for children’s, youth and young adult programs WEEK 4 - FEBRUARY 20-28 Overseas Personnel • Cpts Paul and Pedrinah Thistle, The Salvation Army Howard Hospital, Zimbabwe Territory • Mjr Wendy Johnstone, territorial secretary for personnel, South America East Territory • Lt-Cols Lindsay and Lynette Rowe, chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministry, Caribbean Territory • Mjrs Bruce and Mildred Jennings, corps officers, Traverse City, Michigan, U.S.A. Central Territory To receive a copy of the monthly prayer guides by e-mail, contact Lt-Colonel Winsome Mason, territorial secretary for spiritual life development, at Winsome_ Mason@can.salvationarmy.org.
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Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy— A Righteous Gentile vs. the Third Reich
Creative Change Fundraising ideas to help you reach your Partners in Mission goal
Busy for Mission
A Penny Goes a Long Way
Prince Albert walks for world missions
New Westminster hosts talent night
During the Partners in Mission (PIM) Campaign, Majors Glenn and Bonnie Patey, corps officers, Prince Albert, Sask., share information about countries in need and organize various fundraising events. One venture is a bake sale where people sell baked goods and homemade preserves at various activities at the corps, such as women’s fellowship. Also, people find sponsors to lose weight, shave their beards or cut their hair; others make weekly contributions to PIM in their cartridge envelopes; and the kids’ club collects and recycles bottles to raise money. In April, a cross-cultural fundraising dinner is held. Everyone who attends brings a dish from their country of origin and, to enhance the celebration, cross-cultural music, dancing, stories and traditions are enjoyed. The corps’ biggest fundraiser is the May walkathon, which is a 20-kilometre walk along the Prince Albert Rotary Trail. Following the walkathon, participants and sponsors are invited to attend a picnic. This year, Major Glenn Patey is hoping to raise extra money by setting the goal of personally travelling the trail three times: on bike, rollerblades and foot.
Under the leadership of Captains David and Lisa Macpherson, corps officers, the New Westminster Citadel, B.C., hosted a Penny Talent Night to raise PIM funds for the developing world. The event featured participants from the congregation, local churches and community. Throughout the evening, 25 acts that included music, singing and dancing, were seen from young and old. During each performance, a crowd of 60 came forward and put their pennies and coins into jars. At the conclusion of the evening, the person or group that received the most money in their jar won a prize. “Not only did we raise money for PIM,” says Captain Lisa Macpherson, “it was also a great fellowship opportunity.”
Lt-Col Robert Chapman, chairperson of the Partners in Mission team, adds up the totals for Prince Albert’s 2010 Partners in Mission project after the final fundraiser, a walkathon on the Rotary Trail
It Comes in Fours Valentine’s breakfast at East Toronto East Toronto Citadel raises money for PIM through four key events, all of which involve both the corps and the community. Two of those events are meals held in February and March. Both meals—a Valentine’s breakfast and a Newfoundland dinner—offer fellowship opportunities while raising funds for the appeal. In addition, an April auction and May garage sale are widelyattended and well-known. The auction has led to regular donations (including free hotel accommodation) from local businesses, which form a significant proportion of East Toronto Citadel’s donation to the PIM Campaign.
Money in the Bucket Conception Bay South responds from the heart From 2009 to 2010, Conception Bay South Corps, N.L., reported an increase of more than 100 percent for their PIM Campaign. Major Wayne Green, corps officer, attributes this growth to the church’s newly-established mission board and program committee that worked hard to promote the appeal. “We made the need known and people responded from their hearts,” he says. As the campaign included providing clean water for Bangladesh villages, a water bucket was placed at the doors to the church and each week people contributed their change. As well, empty water bottles were distributed for people to fill with money.
The men at East Toronto Citadel annually host a Valentine’s breakfast to help raise money for Partners in Mission
To read more, or share your Partners in Mission fundraising idea, visit Salvationist.ca. Salvationist I February 2011 I 23
Goodbye, Church
Why so many young people are abandoning the faith … and what to do about it BY DREW DYCK
M
y friend Abe was raised as a Christian, but abandoned his faith during college. “I don’t know what happened,” he said with a shrug. “I just left it.” When I heard about Abe’s “deconversion” my mind jumped to the last time I’d seen him. It was at a Promise Keepers rally the year after we graduated from high school. I remember being surprised to see him there; neither of us had been strong Christians in school. But watching him standing next to his father in the coliseum, it was clear something had clicked. As the voices of 20,000 men lifted in unison, Abe squeezed his eyes shut and extended one slender arm skyward. He seemed solemn yet peaceful, totally absorbed in God’s presence. I’d considered myself a Christian since childhood. Yet it wasn’t until my late teens, when I carefully read the gospels, that the faith truly became my own. When I saw Abe worshipping at the rally, I assumed he had undergone a similar transformation. We were both pastors’ kids. We had both gone through the proverbial rebellious phase, but that didn’t mean we didn’t believe. That’s why I was shocked by his decision to leave the faith. I was a little curious, too. What had prompted Abe, who was my age, and from a remarkably similar background, to defect? “I Felt Nothing” Fast forward six years from that Promise Keepers rally and Abe is sitting in my studio apartment, slapping a cigarette from a pack of American Spirits. The intervening years had taken us each down very different paths. I was married. He was single. I was headed to seminary. He was wrapping up law school. I was an active Christian. He’d rejected the faith. At the time of his visit, he was celebrating a last stint of student-life freedom by motorbiking across the country. I offered him my futon when he rolled into town. It wasn’t much, but compared to the nights he’d been spending in his pop-up tent, it prob24 I February 2011 I Salvationist
ably felt like the Marriott. We talked late into the night. Since high school he’d lived an exciting and eclectic life. I felt a twinge of jealousy as he described experiences that seemed lifted from a Jack Kerouac novel. He’d lived in London, England, and worked as a bartender. He’d backpacked through India. He’d spent summers tree planting in northern Alberta, a lucrative seasonal gig that funded his nomadic existence. Somewhere in Asia he suspended his travels to meditate in a Buddhist monastery. He’d become a vegetarian. His experiences had changed him— most significantly in his views about God. When I broached the subject, his voice grew quiet.
“When I left the faith, I thought it would feel really bad. I assumed I’d come right back. But I didn’t feel bad. I felt nothing.” Though he was philosophical about his departure, he didn’t regret it. In fact, he felt liberated. And he was slightly combative. “Can you honestly say that Christianity has been good for humanity?” he asked. If I had been saddened by Abe’s decision, his father was devastated. When he heard of Abe’s decision, he rushed him the book Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, hoping it might bring him back. It didn’t. Abe read the book, even enjoyed it, but didn’t change his decision to bid his faith farewell.
“Growing up I had an uncle that wasn’t a Christian and we prayed for him all the time,” Abe said wistfully. “They probably pray for me like that now.” When I dove into my best apologetics, Abe shrugged. “I don’t really believe in all that rationality,” he said. “Reason and logic come from the Western philosophical tradition. I don’t think that’s the only way to find truth.” His response silenced me. How could I reason with someone who didn’t believe in reason? Shifting Ground In his book Live to Tell: Evangelism for a Postmodern Age, Brad Kallenberg recounts his decade-long stint as a college campus evangelist. When he started in the late 1970s, conversion rates were high. Kallenberg recalls that about 10 percent of gospel presentations resulted in conversion. But by 1985, the rate had slipped to about six or seven percent—this despite the fact that Kallenberg and fellow evangelists were working twice as hard to make the gospel intelligible to increasingly biblically illiterate students. Disheartened by the dwindling num-
bers, they switched tactics, investing money in huge on-campus advertising campaigns to generate a “warm market” of students. Despite such efforts, numbers continued to fall. Shortly after Kallenberg’s departure from the ministry in 1989, the percentage of conversions fell to an abysmal two percent. All along Kallenberg and the other campus evangelists were sharing the same message. The results, however, were changing dramatically. So what was happening? For Kallenberg the mystery cleared when he enrolled in graduate school and began
“When I left the faith, I thought it would feel really bad. But I felt nothing.” studying philosophy. A major shift had taken place in the field, he discovered, that was now beginning to affect the culture. Suddenly Kallenberg understood why it felt like the “ground was shifting under (his) feet.” The old ways of thinking were crumbling and Christian faith was regarded differently in the new milieu. Kallenberg didn’t realize it right away, but he was experiencing the impact of what we commonly call postmodernism. The Postmodern Terrain The most succinct definition of postmodernism probably comes from the French philosopher Jean-François Lyotard, who famously defined it as “incredulity toward meta-narratives.” What does that mean? Basically that those big stories— the kind of overarching narratives by which we define reality—are regarded with suspicion. In a postmodern world, no one story is large enough to contain the whole of reality, much less define it for all people. This suspicion of meta-narratives results in a radical redefinition of truth, reason and reality. With no standard narrative to serve as a guide, reality is determined by individual experience. According to philosopher J.P. Moreland, “On a postmodernist view, there is no such thing as objective truth, reality, value, reason and so forth.”
As I read this definition, Abe’s words echoed in my ears. “I don’t believe in all that rationality … I don’t think that’s the only way to find truth.” The postmodernist view holds that there is a different “truth” for each person. And experience—not rationality—is the key to finding that truth. Another precept of postmodernism is more positive: concern for the marginalized. That’s one problem postmodern thinkers have with meta-narratives, or big stories—they tend to neglect the “little people.” Talk to postmodern thinkers about the wisdom of the Greeks, and they’ll remind you that the Greeks held slaves and subjugated women. Talk about the history of Canada, and they’ll talk about the cruel treatment of the natives. Christian faith comes under fire, too. For many postmodern thinkers, the historical horrors of the Crusades and Inquisition cast a pall over the gospel message. As Abe pointed to examples of Christians that he felt were indifferent to the poor and marginalized, he was voicing one of the central tenets of postmodern thought. Talking to Postmodern Leavers I wish I could finish Abe’s story with a climactic tale of return. I’d love to recount how he decided to give God another chance, or at least agreed to re-examine the faith. Unfortunately the most I can say at this point is that Abe is still on a journey. Yet I was encouraged (and surprised) by a comment he made toward the end of our discussion. In true postmodern fashion, he mused, “Who knows? Maybe I’ll come back (to faith) some day.” Trying to reach leavers with a postmodern worldview can be frustrating. They’re not interested in philosophical proofs for God’s existence or in the case for the Resurrection. Your best defenses of the faith seem to fall on deaf ears, or worse yet, make them even more resistant to your message. What follows are some tips I’ve discovered—often by falling flat on my face!— about how to speak meaningfully to this tough-to-reach group of young adults. 1. Tell Your Story In a postmodern world, meta-narratives are suspect, but personal perspectives are sacrosanct. Whatever you experience or feel deeply will be respected. You are authorized to tell your story. T.V. Thomas, a Malaysian-born evangelist who speaks on university campuses all over the world, told me, “Young people might say, ‘Don’t Salvationist I February 2011 I 25
tell me anything about Christianity.’ But they don’t mind you telling them your story, because it’s your story.” Resist the urge to edit the story to make it clean and tidy. Be honest with them about your struggles, even your doubts. In the end they’ll respond more favourably if they can see that you’re not so different from them. 2. Build Trust C.S. Lewis’ style of apologetics may not resonate with a postmodern generation. But when it comes to interacting with those who leave the faith, the Oxford don offers some sage advice. “A person must court a virgin differently than a divorcée,” said Lewis. “One welcomes the charming words; the other needs a demonstration of love to overcome inbuilt skepticism.” As I’ve spoken with postmodern leavers, the issue of trust came up repeatedly. “They just want to preach at me,” they would say of Christians. Befriend them unconditionally. Show genuine interest and love. Only once they trust you and believe you love them unconditionally will they warm to your message. 3. Invite Them to Serve Postmoderns have a strong social con-
26 I February 2011 I Salvationist
science and a willingness to serve. By inviting them to serve with you and other Christians, you provide a natural access point for them to the Church and allow them to participate in the work of God in the world. Traditional evangelism has required belief before belonging, but there’s no reason why that order can’t be reversed. Jesus himself extended the simple invitation to his disciples, “Follow me,” knowing that the full truth of his identity would be revealed only as they walked beside him. We’d be wise to do the same. Inviting postmoderns to participate in acts of service often marks the beginning of a journey that leads to a new life in Christ. 4. Follow the Leader Of course there was someone who did all these things quite well—Jesus! He earned people’s trust through service and sacrifice. He invited people to serve alongside him. He preferred colourful stories over linear arguments to sketch a compelling picture of the Kingdom. We’d do well to surrender our often clunky and predictable methods to follow him, moving from soul to soul, whetting spiritual appetites, speaking the lost language of spiritual longing, challenging, probing, provoking, baffling. It’s not an easy act to follow. But it’s worth
it. As we follow Jesus in this way, we’ll be surprised at how many postmodern leavers join us on the journey. Drew Dyck manages the leader training team at Christianity Today International and oversees four online publications for ministry leaders: BuildingChurchLeaders.com, SmallGroups. com, TodaysChildrensMinistry.com and RoundTripMissions.com.
Generation Ex-Christian
In his new book, Generation Ex-Christian: Why Young Adults Are Leaving the Faith ... and How to Bring Them Back, Drew Dyck draws on recent research and indepth interviews with young leavers. He identifies seven different kinds of leavers (the postmodern skeptic, the drifter, the neopagan, etc.) and offers practical advice for reaching them. Shining a light on the crisis, this book proposes effective responses that go beyond slick services or edgy outreach. Available at drewdyck.com.
Celebrate Community
Enrolment and Recognition
GLOVER’S HARBOUR, N.L.—Using the theme The Faithfulness of God, Glover’s Harbour Corps celebrated its 82nd anniversary with well-attended services. During the weekend, Salvationists reflected upon the corps’ heroes of faith who have been promoted to Glory. Mjrs Jacqueline and Collin Abbott, corps officers in Twillingate, N.L., were special guests for the weekend. Front row, from left, Theresa and Amber Ward, junior soldiers. Back row, from left, Mjr Lindsay Oxford, CO; Mjr Josie Oxford; Irene Martin, longest-serving soldier; Lucy Loveman, newest soldier. BAY ROBERTS, N.L.—Piecemakers, a group of novice and experienced quilters at Bay Roberts Corps, N.L., created a beautiful log cabin quilt. They then donated it to Daffodil Place, a specialized hostel operated by the Canadian Cancer Society for patients and caregivers who need to travel to St. John’s, N.L., for cancer treatments.
THORBURN, N.S.—On October 4-7, Maryann Doyle, director of human resources, Maritime Div, led a conference at Scotian Glen Camp on Leadership Lessons From Santa. Topics included keeping the Army’s mission before its workers, showing how jobs are linked to the mission, establishing guidelines and accountability, confronting performance problems early, paying attention to how you are perceived as an employee and being guided by one’s values. “We gained a wealth of information so that we can be better leaders,” says participant Cpt Darren Wiseman.
CLARENVILLE, N.L.—During the anniversary celebrations at Clarenville, MHA Ross Wiseman, minister of business, presented Mjr Fred Pond, CO, with a recognition certificate that reads, “The people of Trinity North will be forever grateful to The Salvation Army Clarenville Corps for their outstanding contribution in response to hurricane Igor.” For four days until the main highway was open, the corps prepared hot meals for people stranded in Clarenville and for local residents who had to leave their homes. “We also worked with the Canadian Forces to get food and supplies to the towns on nearby Random Island and communities leading to and including Bonavista,” says Mjr Pond.
LINDSAY, ONT.—Melissa and Jonathan Buell dedicate their son, Logan Robert Owen Buell, back to God. With them are Winnifred and Ralph Peters and Mjrs Sydney and Beverley Buell, baby Logan’s grandparents. WINGHAM, ONT.— The staff at the Army thrift store in Wingham, Ont., invited customers to purchase paper tents for $2 to raise money for families in Haiti. The employees raised $500.
ST. ANTHONY, N.L.—Lt-Col Alfred Richardson, DC, N.L. Div, presides at the cutting of the ribbon to dedicate the new extension of the Army hall on the 100th anniversary of St. Anthony Corps. Salvationist I February 2011 I 27
Celebrate Community LEWISPORTE, N.L.— Cpts Edward and Rose Canning, COs, Seal Cove, N.L., were guests for the 94th anniversary celebrations in Lewisporte, N.L., on November 7. They challenged the congregation to face the future by trusting the promises of God. From left, Cpts Edward and Rose Canning; Eva Martin, oldest soldier of Lewisporte; Jeffrey Stuckey, youngest junior soldier; Emma Janes, oldest soldier of Embree, N.L.; Wilson Conway, holding flag; Cpts Pauline and Joshua Randell, COs. DILDO, N.L.—Vera Smith receives an appreciation certificate for eight years of faithful service as home league secretary at Trinity Bay South Corps. With her is Cpt Claudette Pilgrim, CO.
ST. ANTHONY, N.L.—Paul Humby is welcomed as a soldier by Mjrs Raymond and Laura Janes, COs.
RENFREW, ONT.—Jacob Radema regularly attends the Army, believes in tithing and trusts God to guide him. He signed a special commitment certificate because he felt he needed everyone to know how much he loves God. Supporting him are Mjrs Glenn and Jeanne Wirachowsky, COs; and Jim Miller, holding the flag.
Operation Halloween: Attacking the Darkness
Officer Retirements
EDMONTON—“In the Parkdale/Norwood district of Edmonton, light shone in the darkness on Halloween night,” says Mjr Stephen Court, CO, Edmonton Crossroads Community Church. Salvationists from Crossroads hit the streets for a strategic prayer walk and door knock. Instead of taking candy, they prayed throughout the neighbourhood and gave away Bibles and a thousand blessing cards to residents. Many people invited them into their homes, listened to their presentation of the gospel and were prayed for. “We did not retreat behind safe doors,” says Mjr Court, “and the months ahead will tell the rest of the story.”
Major Bernice Oliver and her husband, Hedley, commenced ministry with The Salvation Army in 1989 as aux-captains in Flin Flon, Man. After commissioning as captains in 1995, they ministered in Trout River, Chance Cove, Winterton and Moreton’s Harbour, N.L. In 2004, Bernice served in family services in Corner Brook, N.L., for only four months due to the sudden death of her husband. In 2005, a chaplaincy appointment took her to Glenbrook Lodge in St. John’s, N.L., from which she retired on August 1, 2010. “I thank God for the opportunity to be his humble servant and for his sufficient grace that kept me throughout my ministry,” says Bernice.
The Sally Ann mascot was a great hit in the Parkdale/Norwood neighbourhood on Halloween
Salvationist Recognized in Bermuda HAMILTON, BERMUDA— D u r i n g t h e Ca ro n Bermuda Community Service Awards for 2010 at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel, Salvationist Lionel Cann was recognized for his commitment to the mission of The Salvation Army. Cann operates a soup run with numerous volunteers five nights a week in Hamilton. He was described as an extraordinary man who consistently gives of himself to help his fellow man. Caron Bermuda provides adult and adolescent residents with direct access to quality off-island residential drug and alcohol treatment. From left, Gita Blakeney-Saltus, regional vice-president of Caron Bermuda; Lionel Cann; Michael Collins, chairman of Caron Bermuda. 28 I February 2011 I Salvationist
Aux-Captain Gladys Osmond Honoured SPRINGDALE, N.L.—Commissioners William W. and Marilyn D. Francis, territorial leaders, visited Springdale to honour Aux-Cpt Gladys Osmond at a luncheon held in her honour. Commissioner William Francis presented an appreciation certificate for her unique letterwriting ministry to Canada’s Armed Forces around the world. In spite of failing eyesight, Aux-Cpt Osmond sends more than 1,000 letters every month and has received countless responses. Lt-Col Alfred Richardson, DC, N.L. Div, chaired the event, supported by Lt-Col Ethel Richardson, DDWM, Mjr Stephen Hibbs, AC, and Mjrs Gerald and Doreen Lacey, COs. MP Gerry Byrne, Springdale Mayor Harvey Tizzard and Lt-Col Chris Conway of 9 Wing CFB Gander, N.L., brought greetings. Aux-Cpt Osmond has been previously honoured by the Canadian Forces, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Memorial University of Newfoundland, who bestowed on her an honorary doctor of laws degree.
Celebrate Community
Tribute LINDSAY, ONT.—Frances (Fran) Laura Moore was born in Wiarton, Ont., in 1925, and moved to Toronto at the age of three, where she lived until moving to Lindsay in 1985. Fran attended the Army as an adherent in Wiarton, Ont., and at the Fairbanks Corps in Toronto. In 2005, at the age of 80, she became a soldier at Lindsay. Fran was known for her community volunteer work, particularly her passion for the Army’s kettle ministry. She will be remembered for her love for family, her humour, generosity to everyone, an outgoing personality and a readiness to share Jesus with others. She is missed by children Kay (John) Lawrence, Frank (Rita) Law, Linda (Bob) Messmer; six grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. MONTREAL—Linda Ruth Harty was born in Montreal in 1941. Shortly after graduating as a registered nurse, Linda dedicated her professional career to The Salvation Army Catherine Booth Hospital, Montreal, serving as the director of nursing and technical services for many years. In retirement, she served as interim director of The Salvation Army Montclair Residence. Linda was a member of the Westward Rotary Club, eventually becoming an honorary member. She was a well-respected Salvationist at Montreal Citadel, serving in several leadership capacities. Linda is missed by sons David (Mary) and Matthew (Tamara); five grandchildren; sisters Diane McQueen and Susan (Victor) Major; close friend, Major Edith Verstege; and many other family members and friends. TORONTO—Christianna (Chrissie) Hollett Thomasen was promoted to Glory at age 103. After moving from Grand Bank, N.L., to Toronto in 1936, Chrissie began a 26-year career as a comptometer (mechanical calculator) operator at R. B. Hayhoe Company until she retired. She was enrolled as a senior soldier in 1957 at North Toronto Community Church. In retirement, she worked for two years with The Salvation Army’s community and family services. Chrissie will be especially remembered as a home league member and for her home telephone ministry to the congregation. Although childless, she became “mother” to the children of her husband, Herbert, whom she married in 1978. Chrissie is remembered by Herbert, who faithfully cared for her at home, and Harry, Herbert Jr, Chrissie, Ruth and many friends. ST. CATHARINES, ONT.—Dorothy L. Wardell (nee Beck) was born in Thorold Township, Ont. After starting a family, she began attending the corps in Thorold where she became a senior soldier and home league secretary. After the corps closed, the family attended St. Catharines Corps. Dorothy worked at the thrift store, was a member of the women’s auxiliary of the men’s social ministries and enjoyed going to Camp Selkirk for home league camp. She loved cooking, gardening and knitting, and made many sweaters for her grandchildren. She enjoyed the chapel services while a resident of the Salvation Army Eventide Home and in spite of limited vision, faithfully read her Bible and devotional book. Dorothy is survived by daughters Mjr Donna Pitcher (David), Carol Colledge (Richard), Marilyn Levere, Dora Dix, Connie Holmes (Bill); son, Patrick (Paula); two sisters, 19 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. PRINCE ALBERT, SASK.—Ralph Paul was born in Swift Current, Sask., in 1927, and committed his life to Christ as a child. Following commissioning in Toronto as an Army officer in 1946, he served in Meadow Lake, Sask., The Pas, Man., and Nipawin, Sask., where he married Colleen Brass. After moving to Prince Albert, in 1954, Ralph worked with Canada Correctional Services until retirement. He attended Prince Albert Corps for 50 years, supported by his wife, Colleen, of nearly 62 years. Though diagnosed with a neurological disease in 1997, Ralph continued to serve God. He was active in two Bible studies, the men’s fellowship, and played the organ weekly at Sunday services and for several nursing homes. Left to remember his godly influence are his wife, Colleen; daughters Marilyn and Cathy; son, Gordon; and their families.
GANDER, N.L.—Born in Deer Lake, N.L., in 1926, Shirley Elizabeth Chaulk married Eric, who introduced her to the Army and the Lord. Sixty-four years of marriage blessed them with four children, nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Shirley invested her life in the Army, serving as home league treasurer for over 30 years at Deer Lake and Labrador City/Wabush, N.L. In retirement, she served as treasurer of community care ministries in Lewisporte, N.L., volunteered for the Christmas kettle ministry and spent a few summers serving at the Army’s Twin Ponds Camp while her husband, Eric, worked there. Shirley loved life and serving God. She is remembered by husband, Eric; daughters Mjr Elizabeth (Charles) Granter and Beverly (Bruce) Adam; sons Eric (Violet) and Mjr David (Wavey); and many extended family and friends. LINDSAY, ONT.—Born in 1922, Florence (Florrie) Daynes was a faithful member of The Salvation Army in Lindsay. She served in community care ministries, women’s ministries, regularly attended Bible studies and faithfully read the Scriptures. Dearly loved by her daughter and three sons, nine grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, Florrie was known as a prayer warrior and an eager witness for Jesus Christ. Her smile and humour impacted many for Christ and her church family and community friends miss her. LINDSAY, ONT.—Janet Jeanie Cochran Currah was born in 1941, and was enrolled as a senior soldier in 1984 with her husband, Bruce. They attended Toronto’s Scarborough Citadel for several years where she taught Sunday school, was a member of the songsters and home league. They subsequently attended the corps in Lindsay and after her husband’s death in 2000, Janet faithfully attended Bible study there and enjoyed weekly fellowship at the women’s ministries in Fenelon Falls, Ont. Even in hospital, Janet befriended and encouraged other patients. She will be remembered for her quiet spirit and positive outlook on life. Janet is missed by son, Mark; daughters Debbie (Kevin) and Raelene (Stan); three grandchildren and many family and friends.
GAZETTE
TERRITORIAL Appointments Cpts Peter/Marnie Mitchell, family services workers, Vancouver community and family services, B.C. Div; Mjr Ron Cartmell, area commander, Interior Region, B.C. Div (additional responsibility); Mjr Roxanne Jennings, area commander, Island Region, B.C. Div (additional responsibility); Mjr Dirk van Duinen, area commander, Lower Mainland Region, B.C. Div (designation change) Long service—25 years Mjrs Dale Pilgrim, Kenneth/Colleen Kimberley Births Cpts Patrick/Danielle Bulloch, daughter, Jordan Ariel, Nov 14 Promoted to Glory Aux-Cpt Winnifred Branscombe, from Niagara Falls, Ont., Nov 5; Mjr Fern Anthony, from Saskatoon, Nov 21; Mrs Lt-Col Doris Warrender, from Toronto, Nov 23; Aux-Cpt Clifford Flannigan, from Toronto, Nov 27; Mjr Roger Henderson, from Halifax, Dec 2; Mrs Mjr Audrey Marks, from Toronto, Nov 28
CALENDAR
Commissioners William and Marilyn Francis Feb 6 Charlottetown Community Church, P.E.I., Maritime Div; Feb 7-11 officers’ retreat, Maritime Div; Feb 16-17 Canadian Council of Churches leaders’ retreat, Jackson’s Point, Ont.; Feb 17-18 National Advisory Board, Toronto; Feb 22-24 officers’ retreat, Ont CE Div Colonels Floyd and Tracey Tidd Feb 1-3 officers’ retreat, N.L. Div Salvationist I February 2011 I 29
ARMY ROOTS
Missional Oversight
Territorial headquarters plays an important role in the Army’s governance and mobilization BY LT-COLONEL MAXWELL RYAN
W
hen we consider territorial headquarters, it is appropriate to think of spiritual headship, because it is from here that the territorial vision flows. The governance of The Salvation Army is concerned with much more than the nuts and bolts of structural organization. As the headquarters of a significant Christian denomination, it is passionately concerned with the Army’s evangelical mission as part of the larger Christian community. From its earliest days, THQ has been organized on the pattern set by International Headquarters, which in turn adapted the organizational structure of the British government of Victorian times. Salvation Army work was divided, and to some extent still is, into thematically functional departments, each of which was headed by a department secretary, who was responsible to a chief secretary. The chief secretary reported to the territorial commander, whose appointment and authority came from the General. The initial organizational unit of THQ was the Governing Council of The Salvation Army, which was incorporated by the Canadian parliament on May 19, 1909. The council was―and still is―the vested legal entity of The Salvation Army as well as being an advisory and consultative body for the territorial commander. The first council included the territorial commander, chief secretary, field secretary, financial secretary and property secretary. Only with the advent of territorial restructuring has this governing body changed its membership, though the name is the same. The process of THQ decision-making sprang from the Army’s hierarchical system of government, with checks and balances built in to ensure prudent discharge of duties. In the early days, there were few committees, though advice would be sought by territorial leadership, particularly with respect to complex matters of programming or legalities. Though the territorial commander remains the ultimate decisionmaking authority, today THQ decisions 30 I February 2011 I Salvationist
are largely consultative. Mention must be made of an experiment in regional leadership, which commenced in 1915. At that time, the 32-year-old Salvation Army reproduced itself administratively when the Canada West Territory, with headquarters in Winnipeg, was established. The work flourished and during the 1920s it was felt by some that this would be a time of unparalleled Salvation Army growth in the West. Such was indeed the case, but as with so many bright prospects, the Great Depression squeezed the life out of these plans. The burden of two territories in one country became too great and a decision was made by IHQ for the two territories to become one again. The work of amalgamation was begun in 1931 and completed in 1932. There has been a restructuring in the number and focus of THQ departments, with many now serving a consultative role for the Army. Though right-sizing is the goal of THQ, demands upon the Army from government, as well as various agencies, necessitate the maintenance of a fully qualified staff of resource personnel who are in touch with Army centres across the territory. The aims and objectives of THQ remain the same: to serve as a focus for the territory, to provide timely assistance and to ensure that the corporate Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda remains true to its God-given mission. Lt-Colonel Maxwell Ryan is retired in Burlington, Ont., where he serves as a part-time hospital chaplain and amateur Army historian.
THQ Sites
The first settled Army centre of operations in Toronto was a church on Richmond Street, though before long the fledgling Movement had relocated to the Coliseum Hall on Alice Street (now Terauley Street). On May 24, 1883, the first building erected by the Army in Canada was opened on Richmond Street, which was then known as Farley Avenue.
When Thomas B. Coombs took leadership of the territory in 1884, the first THQ was located at 15 Esther Street (now Augusta Avenue), with some departments being located behind a storefront at 223 Queen Street West. On April 24, 1886, Colonel Ballington Booth opened a new Toronto Temple and territorial headquarters on the corner of James and Albert Streets (see top). This building was demolished in 1954 and two years later, General Wilfred Kitching opened a new THQ at 20 Albert Street (see middle). With the physical move from Salvation Square (formerly Albert Street) in the heart of Toronto, to the northeast Toronto area of Leaside in 1995 (see bottom), it has been possible to bring together all THQ departments, some of which had been located 50 kilometres west of Toronto.
RETHINKING CHURCH
The Times They Are a-Changin’ How your congregation can avoid the “holy huddle” by Captain Deana Zelinsky
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bad perm, enormous eyeglasses and untied Cougar boots with the red felt tongue sticking out— an unmistakable ’80s look. That’s the teenage picture of me I came across recently in a family photo album. Clearly, my foray into fashion was off to a questionable start. Thank the Lord for frequently changing trends! Change is necessary in other areas of our lives, too. In fact, it’s essential for growth. My 94-year-old grandmother regularly reminds me of all the changes she has seen in her lifetime: 12-lane superhighways where horse-drawn milk wagons once travelled, moon
landings, two World Wars, television and the dawn of the technological age. If we can embrace change so readily in our world at large, why is it so daunting for the Church? When it comes to popular culture, have we taken the admonition “Do not conform to the pattern of this world”― (see Romans 12:2) to an extreme? Do we sometimes isolate ourselves in a “holy huddle”? Does the prospect of change cause people in your congregation to recoil? As newly appointed corps officers at North Toronto Community Church, my husband and I have been cautioned to avoid making changes in our
first year of ministry. While I appreciate the good intentions behind that advice, I respectfully disagree. Being new to an appointment doesn’t prevent me from being able to discern where God is moving. The challenge for the Church is to embrace change as constructive, not destructive. From the beginning of time, God has been creating and re-creating his world and all that inhabit it. He invites us, his Church, to become a creative community that partners with him. Change is the cornerstone of our teaching and preaching. Transformation is the heart of the Holy Spirit’s work. We invite people to accept Jesus as Saviour and celebrate when they become a “new creation” (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). We don’t tell new believers to wait before they make any significant changes. We expect the saving work of God to be dynamic, immediate and ongoing. If we have the same expectation for our corps ministries, then we will see change as essential for a brighter future. Of course what this looks like will vary from one context to the next. While our core mission never changes, we need to adapt our language, strategies and methods to positively impact our neighbourhoods with the gospel. Here are a few practical points to consider: 1. Foster a climate of creativity. God has lavished his people with an abundance and variety of talents, skills and abilities for the building of his Church. We often refer to these as spiritual gifts, though we sometimes limit their scope. Expand your creative vision by hosting an art exhibit, inviting neighbours and members of your congregation to share their handmade creations such as stained glass, needlework, pottery or paintings. Ask the artists to share their stories about how their gifts were
developed in their lives. 2. Move from social service to social justice. Think about espousing the worldview of community, togetherness and mutuality in mission by breaking down the barriers that separate “us” from “them.” Mission is about what we do with other people to make this world a better place to live. For example, put your skills and experience to work alongside a family who needs housing by joining a work project with Habitat for Humanity or have your church host community initiatives such as the Good Food Box, an alternative food distribution system that provides fresh, nutritious foods at an affordable price. 3. Keep conversation of the gospel, the Church and culture alive. By honouring the truth of the gospel, the traditions of the Church and the reality of the world in which we live, we will be equipped to manage change in a healthy way. Our corps is approaching its 100th anniversary, a significant milestone. But past accomplishments are not a guarantee of future success unless we understand the nature of change in our community and respond swiftly and appropriately, moving and creating with the Holy Spirit. As I flipped the pages of my photo album, I came across another picture of me holding my infant son the day he was dedicated. He is now 20 and attending university. What a change! It’s a reminder to me that life is constantly evolving. Just when we think we have it all figured out, we have to change again. If we want to be a growing Army, we must pray that God will open new doors and that we will have the courage to walk through them. Captain Deana Zelinsky and her husband, Rick, are the corps officers at North Toronto Community Church. Salvationist I February 2011 I 31
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