Salvationist - June 2015

Final Exit: Assisted Suicide Ruling Poses Tough Questions

So Your Child Has Graduated.

Now What?

Alberta Flood: Looking Back at the Army’s Response

Salvationist The Voice of the Army

Introducing the Heralds of Grace

June 2015

Canada and Bermuda’s newest lieutenants share their journey to officership

BOUNDLESS the whole world redeeming

150th Anniversary | 1-5 July 2015 | London, UK

8th International Congress COMMEMORATING THE PAST CELEBRATING THE PRESENT INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE Featuring Music, Worship and Arts Groups from around the world, and a new Salvation Army musical, COVENANT FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.boundless2015.org

Preach to the nations the boundless riches of Christ

Ephesians 3:8

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than is required.

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June 2015 Volume 10, Number 6 www.salvationist.ca E-mail: salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org

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16

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Features 8 High-Water Mark Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Reflecting on the Army’s response to the Alberta floods of 2013

by Captain Pamela Goodyear Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX

10 Introducing the Heralds of Grace

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Canada and Bermuda’s newest lieutenants share their journey to officership PRODUCT LABELING GUIDE

16 Trading in Hope

FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL

Boundless 2015 International Congress to showcase products from Others, a Salvation Army social enterprise

by Bo Christoffer Brekke with Kelly Zvobgo

17 Ending Chronic Homelessness Departments 4 Editorial Spreading Grace

by Geoff Moulton

5 Around the Territory 9 Onward Good Work

by Commissioner Susan McMillan

14 Point Counterpoint Final Exit

by Colonel Bob Ward and Major Amy Reardon

22 Cross Culture

24 Celebrate Community

Enrolments and Recognition, Tributes, Gazette, Calendar

27 Convictions Matter Ruled Faith

by Major Ray Harris

The Unconventional Christian

Jean Vanier discusses faith and disability

The Plane Truth

“Roadside assistance” takes on a new meaning when a plane is about to land on your van

Keeping the Campfires Burning

At Salvation Army camps, lives are transformed forever

18 For Such a Time as This

Conference encourages participants to live right, lead right

by Giselle Randall

20 Right to Believe

23

Graduation Day

by Major Kathie Chiu

With persecution on the rise, Ambassador Andrew Bennett shares why his faith is essential to the work he does through Canada’s Office of Religious Freedom Interview by Kristin Ostensen

30 Salvation Stories

23 Vive la France!

Inside Out

Get More Salvationist Online

28 Talking Points Let Them Eat Cake

by Major Juan Burry

29 Ties That Bind

Welcoming the Stranger

by Louise Fernandez

Cover photo: Carson Samson

Inside Faith & Friends

The emerging response of Salvation Army shelters

by Ken Ramstead

This new movie takes us inside a place no one has ever seen: the human mind

Share Your Faith When you finish reading Faith & Friends, FAITH & frıends pull it out and give it to someone who needs to hear about FINDING HEALING Christ’s lifeWITH THE DISABLED Canadian humanitarian Jean Vanier changing champions the marginalized  power June 2015

faithandfriends.ca

Inspiration for Living

+

SWEET-TALKING 101:

Encounter in a Cellblock

Marriage Advice From “Dr.” Phil (Callaway)

How moving to a new country showed me God’s faithfulness

by Kathleen Moulton

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EDITORIAL

J

Spreading Grace

oe was a man with a secret problem.

A number of years ago, Joe worked the printing presses for us. Month after month, he monitored thousands of Salvationist and Faith & Friends magazines as they churned off the assembly line, calibrating the colour and making sure the machine didn’t jam.

One of our editorial staff members, Peter, often went to the printing plant to check on the publications. He loved to chat with Joe and the other workers, and frequently shared his faith.

Imagine Peter’s surprise when, one Sunday, Joe showed up unannounced at his church.

“What brings you here?” he asked.

When you share your faith, you never know whose life you’ll touch “I have a lot of down time on the press, so I started reading your magazines,” Joe replied. “At first, I just did the puzzle page in Faith & Friends, but then I was captivated by the stories. I read about people who were liberated from their addictions and realized that my life had to change.”

You see, Joe was what you’d call a functioning addict—hooked on prescription medication from an injury. He never let it affect his job, but it was slowly destroying his personal life. Reading the stories of hope and redemption in Faith & Friends was a wake-up call. He needed to get his life back on track.

“I’ve been sober for three months now,” he told Peter. “And I’m here to find out more about God.” Peter used to call the magazines “paper missionaries.” I like that idea.

The written word is powerful, but magazines alone do not point people to Christ. The most important thing is relationships—taking the time to connect with people. Peter didn’t realize the tremendous impact his life and testimony was having on Joe, but 4 • June 2015 • Salvationist

clearly the Holy Spirit was at work.

When you share your faith, you never know whose life you’ll touch. This month, the cadets from the Heralds of Grace Session will be commissioned as officers in The Salvation Army. They have already been active in ministry, and can tell you stories of people like Joe—people who were lost and searching for hope—and how they were able to share the grace of Jesus (page 10).

Also in this issue of Salvationist, you can read stories about how to maintain “grace under pressure.” Associate editor Kristin Ostensen speaks with Ambassador Andrew Bennett of the Office of Religious Freedom about religious persecution (page 20). Colonel Bob Ward and Major Amy Reardon discuss the implication of the Supreme Court of Canada’s ruling on assisted suicide (page 14). And Major Kathie Chiu explores the pressures our kids are under come graduation day (page 29).

Just a reminder that the Faith & Friends in the centre of this magazine is a pull-out—perfect for sharing. After you read it, take a minute to pass it along to someone who needs to hear about the hope that Christ offers. It’s a great spiritual conversation-starter.

GEOFF MOULTON Editor-in-Chief

Salvationist

is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory André Cox General Commissioner Susan McMillan Territorial Commander Lt-Colonel Jim Champ Secretary for Communications Geoff Moulton Editor-in-Chief Giselle Randall Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Production Co-ordinator, Copy Editor (416-422-6112) Kristin Ostensen Associate Editor and Staff Writer Timothy Cheng Senior Graphic Designer Brandon Laird Design and Media Specialist Ada Leung Circulation Co-ordinator Ken Ramstead Contributor 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

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AROUND THE TERRITORY

New Centre of Hope Planned for Whitehorse THE SALVATION ARMY is building a new Centre of Hope in downtown Whitehorse. The project was officially announced in March by Yukon Premier Darrell Pasloski and Lt-Colonel Jim Champ, territorial secretary for communications.

The new Centre of Hope will provide an expanded emergency shelter of 25 spaces, drop-in space, increased dining room capacity and 22 transitional housing units, as well as a range of support services. It will replace the present aging building and shelter, which currently runs at over 200 percent capacity.

“The Salvation Army has a long history of serving and supporting vulnerable populations here in the Yukon and we are extremely pleased to be working in partnership with them to build this new facility,” said Pasloski at the announcement. “This project will help build a stronger foundation for a highly vulnerable population that is homeless

Lt-Col Jim Champ announces the building of a new Centre of Hope to media in Whitehorse

or under-housed and at risk.”

“The Salvation Army greatly appreciates the support and partnership with the Yukon Government so that we can continue to serve some of the most vulnerable in this community and be a transforming influence,” said Lt-Colonel Champ. “We look forward to the day

that we can open the doors of this new facility so that those who need it will have a safe place to live and the supports they need.”

In total, the government is contributing $10.2 million for the redevelopment.

Work will begin this year with opening at the centre slated for late 2016.

Northern British Columbia Welcomes Cadets EASTER HAS LONG been a time of celebration in northern British Columbia as Salvationists gathered for a regional congress. Revisiting the tradition of joining together to remember Christ’s death and Resurrection, residents of the Skeena and Nass Valley region welcomed two brigades of cadets from the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg.

Cadets Matthew and Whitney Reid, Kaitlin Adlam and Stephanie Sawchuck ministered to the Upper Skeena Circuit (Hazelton, Sik-e-Dakh and Gitsegukla) by leading worship on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, and by sharing in the annual massed-band concert on Good Friday. The From left, Cdts David Dale, Lorenda Dale and Kath Walker en route to Gitwinksihlkw in the Nass Valley more than 300 people in attendance were blessed as they listened to the 60-piece band that was comprised of members of community bands from all over the region.

Cadets Kath Walker, David Dale and Lorenda Dale toured the various ministries in Terrace and then proceeded to Prince Rupert where they participated in an ecumenical Good Friday celebration, hosted an outreach movie for the community and served a pancake breakfast on Saturday morning for those in need. From there they travelled to Gitwinksihlkw to prepare for Easter Sunday, when they took part in a resurrection march throughout the village, singing and announcing the good news that Jesus had risen from the dead. A community breakfast and a rousing celebration attended by a capacity crowd brought Salvationist Alex Stoney snaps a selfie with the 60-piece band during Upper Skeena Circuit’s massed-band concert the campaign to a close.

Salvationist • June 2015 • 5

AROUND THE TERRITORY

THE BANK OF Bermuda Foundation has donated a new community service ministries and response vehicle to The Salvation Army’s Bermuda Division.

David Lang, the foundation’s managing director, handed over the keys to Major Frank Pittman, divisional commander, in March, who in turn passed them to Lionel Cann, social services director, who is responsible for the Army’s street ministry.

The Army gives sandwiches and soup six nights a week to needy people from the back of a specially modified van, and it also helps in other ways. “It’s all-encompassing,” says Cann. “We give spiritual counselling and work with other social services to provide any financial or housing aid.” Cann says demand for the Army’s social services has risen in the last two years.

The smaller, 15-year-old vehicle The Salvation Army was using will be retired.

Photo and story: Royal Gazette

Bermuda Salvation Army Given New Van

Lionel Cann (left) and Mjr Frank Pittman sit in the new Salvation Army van for the first time, after David Lang of the Bank of Bermuda Foundation presented them with the key

Cape Breton Army Holds Celebration Weekend GATHERING UNDER THE theme Hosanna, Praise is Rising, The Salvation Army in Cape Breton, N.S., held a weekend of celebration, with Glace Bay Corps, Sydney Community Church and New Waterford Corps participating.

A welcome meeting was held at Glace Bay Corps on Friday evening, with Colonel Mark Tillsley, chief secretary, leading and Frances Burton, a university student, sharing her testimony. The service was followed by a youth meeting led by Captains Morgan and Lisa Hillier, divisional youth secretaries, Maritime Division.

On Saturday morning, Captains Hillier led junior youth councils at Sydney Community Church with the theme The Master’s Builders. The children learned that Jesus is the cornerstone on which they can build their lives.

“It was great to see the kids engaged and participating, and especially beautiful to see the children line up at the decision time,” says Major Dena Hepditch, corps officer, Sydney Community Church.

A seniors’ lunch and rally was held at Glace Bay Corps in the afternoon, where Colonel Sharon Tillsley, territorial secretary for women’s ministry, challenged those in attendance to stay focused on Jesus and the path he has set before us.

New Waterford Corps hosted a music café on Saturday evening, with musicians from the three corps taking part, 6 • June 2015 • Salvationist

From left, Mjrs Everett and Violet Barrow, ACs, Maritime Div; Lts Dennis and Mary Maybury, COs, Glace Bay Circuit with New Waterford; Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley; Mjr Alison Cowling; Mjrs Dena and Kent Hepditch, COs, Sydney CC; and Cpts Lisa and Morgan Hillier lead a weekend of celebration in Cape Breton

as well as individuals and groups from the community. After a night of worship songs and local Cape Breton music, Colonel Mark Tillsley concluded with a devotional message.

A combined Sunday morning meeting was held at Sydney Community Church.

As it was Palm Sunday, the children acted out Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, waving branches and shouting “Hosanna.” Major Alison Cowling, divisional commander, Maritime Division, encouraged the congregation to be a church that reaches out to the community, while Colonel Mark Tillsley championed the importance of being a united body.

“It was beautiful to witness people from all three corps kneeling and praying together,” says Major Hepditch. “We

Landon enjoys a moment with the Lego Man at junior youth councils

were challenged and empowered to be a church that loves Jesus deeply and is a transforming influence in our communities.”

AROUND THE TERRITORY

Gala Dinner Benefits Army in St. John’s

John Crosbie (centre) meets Colonel Mark Tillsley, chief secretary, and Lt-Cols Douglas and Jean Hefford at a gala dinner in his honour

POLITICIANS AND FRIENDS gathered at the Delta Hotel in St. John’s, N.L., in March to celebrate the public service of John Crosbie, Newfoundland and Labrador’s former lieutenantgovernor, and his wife, Jane. Organized by the Rotary Club of St. John’s Northwest, the gala dinner and silent auction raised funds for The Salvation Army, Hope Air and other charities.

Notable guests included former prime minister Jean Chrétien; former prime minister Joe Clark and his wife, Maureen McTeer; former premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Brian Tobin; and Canadian commentator and author Rex Murphy. Each brought their unique blend of humour and storytelling to the evening as they toasted and roasted John Crosbie for his many years of serving Canada in local, provincial and federal politics. His wife and confidante of 62 years at his side, John expressed heart-felt appreciation to the many well-wishers for their personal support.

At the gala, Lt-Colonel Douglas Hefford, divisional commander, Newfoundland and Labrador Division, met with media to explain the Army’s plans for rebuilding the New Hope Community Centre, which serves the city’s vulnerable citizens. The division is presently involved in a feasibility study to determine the level of support from the community for this multi-million-dollar project.

Childhood Development Centre Expands THE OFFICIAL GROUNDBREAKING ceremony for the expansion of The Salvation Army’s Small Blessings Early Childhood Development Centre took place at Moncton Citadel Community Church, N.B., in April.

Small Blessings is an award-winning centre that has delivered programs designed to enhance children’s development for more than 26 years.

The expansion will increase available full-time childcare spaces by 31, after-school spaces by 30, and overall service capacity by 50 percent, for a total enrolment of 192 children.

“It’s a historic day,” says Major Alison Cowling, divisional commander, Maritime Division. “At an estimated cost of $1.5 million, the centre will provide 6,000 square feet of additional floor space that will be fully dedicated to Small Blessings programs. This expansion will allow us to make a significant difference in this community.”

“This new addition will allow us to expand programming,” says Lorraine Veysey, director of Small Blessings. “For example, in our after-school program, we will be adding components of physical education, leadership development, science, arts and culture (music, dance, etc.), and entrepreneurship.”

The official opening of the new expansion is scheduled for fall 2015.

Lorraine Veysey helps Hudson Hebert and his mom, Laura Hebert, turn the first sod for the expansion of the Small Blessings Early Childhood Development Centre

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Contact (416) 422-6119; circulation@can.salvationarmy.org or visit salvationist.ca/subscribe to order Salvationist • June 2015 • 7

High-Water Mark

Reflecting on the Army’s response to the Alberta floods of 2013

O

BY CAPTAIN PAMELA GOODYEAR

n June 19, 2013, when the rivers began to rise all over southern Alberta, no one could have predicted the devastation of the coming days and weeks, or that two years later, people would still be struggling to put their lives back together.

From the moment the waters started to flow into cities and towns, The Salvation Army mobilized to assist. The first community response unit from Calgary headed to High River, but before we even reached the town, word came that the entire community was being evacuated. We were rerouted to Blackie, where we served hundreds of people—some coming in with wet feet and clothes, having been picked up by combines to escape the raging waters.

That first day, more than 500 people were fed. Over the next 12 weeks, The Salvation Army provided assistance to more than 50,000 people. Community response units (CRUs) were brought in from Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

Salvation Army personnel from across the country came to lend a helping hand. CRUs went out daily to communities in southern Alberta to provide food, water and emotional and spiritual care. Where the CRUs couldn’t drive in High River, teams went on foot, taking coolers of water and snacks to people trying to sort through the destruction and salvage what they could.

In the midst of the flood response, The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope in downtown Calgary had to evacuate more than 400 people for almost two weeks. After reopening, the eight-storey building was without elevator service for several months. The Army’s community and family services in High River, which houses the corps and the only local food bank, suffered extensive flood damage. Once residents returned to the community, a makeshift operation was set up in the parking lot so that food, clothing and financial assistance could be provided until the renovated facilities were reopened in October 2013.

When disaster strikes, The Salvation Army is often the first on the scene and the last to leave. It was no different with the Alberta floods. In most places, life returned to normal within a couple of months and our CRUs and extra personnel returned home. But two years later, The Salvation Army in High River continues to provide assistance to those most affected by the floods. We have seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking help.

As the first anniversary of the flood approached, the people of southern Alberta experienced a great deal of anxiety. Many didn’t want to rebuild completely until they felt sure it wouldn’t happen again. Every year, as June 19 approaches, we remember not only the destruction but the phenomenal support that came from all across the country.

After the initial emergency response, The Salvation Army distributed the remaining donated funds—$1.7 million—to more than 500 families to further help with recovery. Many 8 • June 2015 • Salvationist

A volunteer surveys the damage to Montrose Bridge in High River

The Salvation Army thrift store in High River, the morning of the flood

wrote to say thank you and that the gift came at just the right time.

From a personal perspective as one of the first to mobilize, I am thankful I had the opportunity to support people in crisis.

I am also extremely grateful to Salvation Army personnel from across Canada who came to assist and all those who donated funds. I will never forget the faces of those I was privileged to serve in a small way. Over the years, I have served at several disasters and often think of a slogan I heard after hurricane Katrina: “We combat natural disasters with acts of God.” We pray that this summer, the snow in the mountains will melt slowly and the rivers won’t rise—but wherever there is a need, The Salvation Army will respond.

Captain Pamela Goodyear is the divisional secretary for public relations and development in the Alberta and Northern Territories Division.

ONWARD

Celebrating the victories of our strategic priorities

I

BY COMMISSIONER SUSAN McMILLAN

t’s finally summer! The last time I experienced summer was in January 2014. That’s right—January. I was living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the seasons are opposite to those of the northern hemisphere. In August, as winter was coming to a close and the promise of spring was all around us, I moved to Canada, where fall was menacing and winter came hard on its heels. I haven’t felt warm since.

But summer is here at last and no one is more content about it than I am. The world is bursting into colour as flowers and trees thrive in the sunshine and lap up moisture from sudden summer thunderstorms. All this new life makes me feel so incredibly alive and content.

In Shakespeare’s Richard III, Richard, the future king, speaks these well-known words: “Now is the winter of our discontent/made glorious summer by this son of York; And all the clouds that low’r’d upon our house/In the deep bosom of the ocean buried.” Richard is rejoicing in his family’s victory over the house of Lancaster and celebrating that his brother, Edward IV, has become king.

As I look to this summer, I also want to celebrate. Not that we had a winter of discontent—absolutely not! But I want to rejoice that our Salvation Army family has seen many victories across the territory. I have spent much of this past winter becoming re-acquainted with the Canada and Bermuda Territory and have been encouraged by what God is doing in our midst. Here are just a few examples of things worth celebrating: •• Montreal Citadel welcoming new people into fellowship, with more enrolments than any other corps •• Toronto’s Cedarbrae Community Church celebrating the artistic talents of children and young people from their community in an amazing Christmas musical •• Calgary’s Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre bursting at the seams with people of all ages coming together for worship and fun at Messy Church •• Vancouver’s business community joining with The Salvation Army for the largest Hope in the City breakfast in the territory •• Young Salvationists gathering in St. Thomas, Ont., to deepen their knowledge and experience of the doctrine of holiness (a snowstorm kept me away, but we communicated by e-mail) •• A small group of corps sergeant-majors meeting with me by Skype to give me and my leadership team greater insight into grassroots Salvationism in our territory •• Officers and staff in social and community services in St. John’s, N.L., serving under difficult circumstances •• Florence Booth Home in Toronto, a welcoming shelter for so many women who have no options for affordable housing. The physical limitations of the building are no match for the love extended to the women by the staff •• The officership information weekend, where Salvationists

Seven Strategic Priorities ¨ Spiritual Health ¨ Leadership Development ¨ Social Justice ¨ Integrated Mission ¨ Children and Youth ¨ The Gospel and Transformation ¨ Discipleship

heard and responded to God’s calling to full-time service •• A roundtable discussion with a group of First Nations Salvationists as we trust God to guide us into exciting ministry opportunities •• Celebrating the commissioning and ordination of officers who will fill vital appointments across the territory And I could go on…. I have been tremendously encouraged to see what God is doing.

All of these victories are, of course, part of a strategy that God has given us as a territory. These strategic priorities have been communicated over the past couple of years by my predecessor, and we continue to build on them.

I thank God for the wisdom of our international leaders, General Linda Bond (Rtd), and now General André Cox, for the international vision of “One Army, One Mission, One Message,” which continues to be the central message of our strategy. And I thank God for inspiring the leaders here in the Canada and Bermuda Territory to establish our seven strategic priorities (salvationist.ca/strategic-priorities). A committee made up of officers, soldiers and employees from across the territory is working to develop these priorities into actionable objectives, and we need every Salvationist to do his or her part to make them a reality.

Summer is here! Jesus said: “When you see a fig tree or any other tree putting out leaves, you know that summer will soon come. So, when you see these things happening, you know that God’s kingdom will soon be here” (Luke 21:29-31 CEV). We must take advantage of the time we have to share the good news of the gospel, to grow the kingdom of God and to serve our communities in Jesus’ name.

Commissioner Susan McMillan is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Follow Commissioner McMillan at facebook.com/ susanmcmillantc and twitter.com/salvationarmytc.

Salvationist • June 2015 • 9

Illustration: © iStock.com/retrorocket

Good Work

Introducing the

Heralds of Grace

Photos: Carson Sampson

Canada and Bermuda’s newest lieutenants share their journey to officership

O

n June 20, the cadets of the Heralds of Grace Session will be commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers with the rank of lieutenant. After nearly two years of intensive training through the College for Officer Training (CFOT) in Winnipeg, these 16 Salvationists are now preparing for their first appointments.

Principal’s Commendation When I read God’s Word, I am always encouraged by the extravagant nature of celebration God reveals. Whether it is the wedding at Canaan or the return of the prodigal son, celebration does not go unnoticed.

As a faith community, we celebrate promises made through covenant. Celebrations of this nature come in various forms in the lives of Salvationists, from child dedications to enrolment ceremonies. One celebration that is important to us all is the commissioning of new officers for ministry to appointments across our vast territory.

This month, it will be an honour to commend to our territorial commander those who have responded to God’s call.

They have been sent from congregations large and small, and 10 • June 2015 • Salvationist

have undergone a thorough training of knowing, being and doing. Their character and competence have been affirmed. In the spirit of celebration, may it be our corporate prayer that the measure of God’s covenant be extended, for “the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few” (Matthew 9:37). In rejoicing with those whom God is sending, may we have reason to celebrate those God is calling.

With affection, the training college staff and employees pray with every assurance for the promises that are ahead, for “the one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

Major David Allen Principal, CFOT

Cadet Charlene Barrett I grew up in The Salvation Army and I sensed God calling me into full-time ministry when I was 14, while at a divisional music camp. Spending time with young people in the community while at CFOT has been meaningful for me. It was a privilege to be invited into people’s lives and a great responsibility that must not be taken lightly. Through relationship building, I have learned much about grace, love and acceptance.

As an officer, I look forward to meeting new people, sharing the good news of Jesus’ love and salvation, and discipling them as they grow in their relationship with Christ.

Cadet Keith Barrett My calling to officership came at a young age. Unfortunately, I ran from this call for many years, but after realizing that God would not give up on me, I finally submitted to his will. One of the most memorable experiences I had during my placements was visiting with members of the corps and community. I learned that it is important to be relational with people. People today want to know that we care about them. It is in nurturing these relationships that we are able to walk alongside people through their triumphs and hurts.

Appointed to Lower Island Cove, N.L. Cadet Samuel Tim My journey with Christ has taken me down unexpected paths, but when I look back, I can see how God has been leading me.

His plan brought me from Nigeria to Canada to attend the War College in Vancouver, and eventually I sensed his desire for me to become an officer. The most memorable experience of my training was my summer assignment in Tshelanyemba, Zimbabwe, where I participated in their worship services—it was like I was back in Nigeria! Looking ahead, I am eager to meet the people in the corps and community where I am appointed and share in ministry with them. With his wife, Mary.

Appointed to Lakeshore Community Church, Toronto

Cadet Michelle Cale While out shopping, a cashier asked me what brought me in and I shared that our church was holding an event and she was welcome to attend. Her face crumbled and she said thanks, but what she really wanted was to talk about a recent death in her family. God used this humbling experience to teach me that he turns ordinary moments into something more. I’ve realized that every day is a new chance to share God’s love. It has been exciting to hold the people in my first appointment in prayer, knowing that God is there and is already at work.

Appointed to Alberni Valley, B.C.

Cadet Lorenda Dale I have met many beautiful people in The Salvation Army throughout Canada since arriving at CFOT, and one thing I have learned is that we all have our place in the Army, in God’s church—young, old, poor, rich, all of us are one body, one Army. My most memorable experience was a specialling weekend when I had the opportunity to lead a young lady to the Lord. I am excited to finally be doing what God has been calling me to my whole life. I pray that God will have his way in my life and use me to love his people.

Cadet David Dale I’m so thankful that my parents raised me to believe in Jesus. I came to The Salvation Army as an adult, and I loved the mission. But I realized that many people hadn’t had the luxury of being taught about Jesus, and I soon felt God calling me to be an officer. On my winter assignment in Moncton, N.B., I prepared and served breakfast to people who were facing challenges in their lives. As I saw the joy Major Vida Ryan, corps officer, exhibited as she prepared food for the clients, I realized that every person has a need to be loved and cared for. God has called us to be carriers of his love.

Appointed to Woodstock—Circuit with Ming’s Bight, N.L. Salvationist • June 2015 • 11

Cadet Kyung-Me Choi As an officer’s kid, there wasn’t a time when I didn’t have The Salvation Army in my life. But one day, an officer I knew well asked me, “Have you met God personally?” I was shocked. I realized that I was a Christian in name only. After that, I began to read the Bible. When I read Galatians 2:20, my heart started beating and I encountered God. I prayed, “Father, I give you my life. If you want me to be an officer, I will.” I learned that I have to follow him without doubt and fear, because God knows everything and will make a way for me.

Cadet Donna Downey My calling came later in life, but once I said yes, the peace that came over me was wonderful and I have not looked back. God has been with me every step of the journey.

At CFOT, I was encouraged and trained in the importance of simple reliance on God for strength and courage.

As I look forward to my first appointment, I eagerly await what God has in store. I pray for the congregation daily so that we will work together and build a lasting relationship as we show the love of God to the people we serve.

Appointed to Gladstone Community Church, Ottawa

Cadet Sung-Ho Lee I received the call of God about 10 years ago when I was meditating on the Bible. I believe that God’s purpose in sending me to CFOT was to help me see the shape of myself and to make me humble. In my first appointment, I am going to take care of the congregation and help the local community. I admire my parents, who are officers in Korea. They care a lot for people and they are very patient, so I want to be like them and I promise God that I will follow him forever.

Returning to Korea Territory Cadet Stephanie Sawchuk During my training, I have had the honour of being placed in amazing corps across the territory. Each placement has been an enriching experience. This year, I was assigned to Winnipeg’s Living Hope Community Church, a place of growth and learning for me. Majors Corinne and Steven Cameron were more than field supervisors; they became repected mentors.

They taught me how to embrace the role of a pastor, meet people where they are and truly love them.

Appointed to Georgina Community Church, Ont. 12 • June 2015 • Salvationist

Cadet Ian Rabourn One highlight of my training was the time I spent with the men at Harbour Light in Bermuda—seeing their lives so dramatically changed and hearing their bold testimonies of Jesus being the only way out of misery and death. This still brings joy to my heart. I believe my call is to shepherd people, “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Ephesians 4:12 ESV). Every person has a unique call of God on their lives. I want to see the leader in all of us emerge and encourage those with experience to mentor the next generation.

Cadet Donna Rabourn I always felt called to the job I worked for 25 years prior to coming to CFOT. But I eventually realized that God wanted me to do something different—a new calling. He was calling me to officership. The most important thing I learned at CFOT was unity in diversity. As cadets, we are all very different and yet the same, just like the wider body of Christ. In my first appointment, I look forward to getting to know the people God has appointed us to, and working with them to share the kingdom of God with the community.

Appointed to Dawson Creek, B.C.

Cadet Stephen Toynton My field placement during my first year at CFOT was at Winnipeg’s Weetamah Corps, where I was assigned to their Urban Café ministry. This gave me the opportunity to serve a hot meal and engage guests in conversation and recreation.

Observing how well each person was treated by the staff and volunteers caused me to think that this was exactly how Jesus did ministry. This was one of the most important things I have learned. I look forward to getting to my first appointment and doing whatever what God has planned for me to do.

Cadet Rosalyn Toynton In my first year at CFOT, my placement was at Winnipeg Community Venture, where adults with disabilities can meet their recreational and social needs. I’ll never forget the moment when one of the members felt she could trust me enough to hold my hand. It wasn’t long before I gained the trust of all the members—an awesome privilege! The most important thing I learned at CFOT was not related to academics. Through my placement at Winnipeg’s Weston Community Church, I learned the value of being a good listener, an encourager and a friend.

Appointed to Amherst Community Church and Springhill Community Church, N.S.

Cadet Yves Bolduc After being a pastor for 10 years, I ended up working at the Booth Centre in Montreal. There I discovered The Salvation Army and my wife and I decided to attend Montreal Citadel.

We became soldiers, heard God’s call to officership and entered CFOT the following year. My placement at the Fredericton Community Church was an unforgettable experience. Serving and being with people, visiting the sick and conducting a funeral, handling a storm catastrophe, attending youth camp and experiencing all the challenges of ministry gave me a taste of the exciting future God has called us to.

Cadet Vivian Mag-aso I had never heard about The Salvation Army until my husband started working at Montreal’s Booth Centre. He was always telling me about the Army and how they reached out to hopeless people, and that’s what made me interested in learning more about the Army and its work. My placements across Canada were precious because I experienced the diversity of The Salvation Army. I learned that some corps may be different from other corps, but The Salvation Army’s mission—the vision and goal that William Booth had—still remains. For my first appointment I’m looking forward to how God will use me to serve his kingdom and carry out the mission of The Salvation Army. With their son, Mark Lynver Mag-aso.

Appointed to The Salvation Army Ministries, Quebec City

Beyond Commissioning In this video series, seven seasoned Salvation Army officers share their journey to officership and how God has led them to the present day.

• Major Rodney Bungay • Major Ron Cartmell • Captains Morgan and Lisa Hillier • Major Louise Wareham • Major Pierre Croteau and Major Claudine Tardif

More Cadets Online See more photos of the Heralds of Grace Session at salvationist.ca

Watch at youtube.com/salvationistmagazine Salvationist • June 2015 • 13

POINT COUNTERPOINT

Final Exit

Image: © iStock.com/wgmbh

Is physician-assisted suicide really “death with dignity”?

In this series, Colonel Bob Ward, who retired in 2013 as the territorial commander in Pakistan, and Major Amy Reardon, corps officer at Seattle Temple in Washington, U.S.A., discuss issues of the day.

DEAR BOB,

I

f I understand correctly, Canada has opened the door to making physician-assisted suicide legal, starting in 2016.

In Oregon, just south of where I live, the practice has been legal for more than 20 years, and in my state, Washington, since 2008. Here it’s called the “Washington Death with Dignity Act.” What do you think of the title “Death with Dignity,” Bob? I have trouble with it. In fact, I have some trouble with the whole thing.

Physician-assisted suicide (PAS) is when a doctor provides information or materials that allow a person to end his or her life in order to put an end to great suffering. Most definitions state or imply that the suffering is physical. I think that’s what most of us have in mind when we think of PAS: a person who is already dying from a serious disease and wants to bring an immediate end to unbearable physical pain. Even those who find any suicide immoral have some degree of sympathy for these situations. If death is coming anyway, and if the demise is slow and awful, we can appreciate why people want out.

I think of the case of Kay Carter, who covertly left Canada for Switzerland, where assisted suicide is legal, so she could drink a lethal dose of pentobarbital. She described herself as 14 • June 2015 • Salvationist

dying “inch by inch.” It isn’t hard to understand her desire to quicken what was inevitable.

What’s really troubling me is that it isn’t just—or even mostly—physical pain that is prompting the deed. A February 2015 report from the Oregon public health division lists reasons patients gave for why they wanted to end their lives. Only 33 percent mentioned “inadequate pain control or concern about it.” Forty-two percent were worried they would be a “burden on family, friends/caregivers.” But 96 percent of those who chose to end their lives cited “losing autonomy” as a reason, and 91 percent said they were “less able to engage in activities making life enjoyable.” Do you find it surprising that some people would rather die than face a less-fulfilling life, even though their physical pain wasn’t intolerable?

In an opinion piece in the Los Angeles Times, Ira Byock, MD—who does not support PAS—wrote: “The mission of Final Exit Network, one of the key groups supporting [legalized PAS], is to enable all competent adults to end their lives whenever they deem their physical quality of life is unacceptable.”

Honestly, Bob, I find that terrifying. Is it acceptable for someone to take her life if she loses her sight? What if a person is traumatized over the loss of a limb, not realizing that a day may come when he adjusts and rediscovers happiness?

The Oregon study reports a mix of reasons for dying, from physical to emotional suffering. In other parts of the world, people are given permission to end their lives solely based on emotional suffering. I’m a pastor, and have been through some very dark times. I’ve learned that “weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).

I’ve seen people go through difficult situations, barely able to hang on. Eventually, though, the sun begins to shine again.

Now imagine if people had the legal right to kill themselves in their darkest hour. Not only that, but they’ve been told it is dignified. (There’s no turning back, of course. Studies show that these assisted deaths are completed within a matter of hours and have a 100 percent “success” rate.) I wonder, will the shattered family members they leave behind think it was a “death with dignity”?

AMY DEAR AMY,

Y

es, in February the Supreme Court of Canada made a decision to remove the current criminal sanctions against anyone, professional or otherwise, counselling a person to end his or her life, or a person consenting to have “death inflicted on them.”

Fortunately, the genie is not completely out of the bottle—the lid has merely been loosened. Unlike the states of Washington and Oregon, Canada has not created new legislation permitting assisted suicide; it has declared the current legislation unconstitutional and given the government 12 months to create a regulatory framework.

The Canada and Bermuda Territory’s position statement is unequivocal: “The Salvation Army believes that euthanasia and assisted suicide are morally wrong, and holds that they should continue to be illegal under Canadian law.”

The Salvation Army’s international position statement starts the same way, but goes on to list four principles: •• All people deserve to have their suffering minimized in every possible way consistent with respect for the

POINT COUNTERPOINT sanctity of life •• It is not suicide for people to choose to refuse or terminate medical treatment •• It is not euthanasia for health-care professionals to withhold or withdraw medical treatment that only prolongs the dying process •• To provide supportive care for the alleviation of intolerable pain and suffering (e.g., by way of analgesics) may be appropriate even if the dying process is shortened as a side effect While the “sanctity of life” philosophy can be used as an argument against PAS, the international statement expands the phrase: “Respecting the sanctity of human life means we value all human beings irrespective of age, health status, gender, race, religion, social status or their potential for achievement.” It does not seem to directly equate sanctity of life with opposition to PAS. From a compassionate standpoint, the statement allows doctors and patients (and, by extension, family) to make the best treatment decision to alleviate pain, when mortality is the probable outcome, based on the condition of the patient.

Loosely applied, the international statement is not at odds with the Supreme Court decision, where one treatment option would allow a physician to knowingly shorten the life of someone suffering intolerable pain through the use of strong pain killers. Killing the pain may also be fatal to the patient.

Many families are familiar with this experience.

Some argued the ruling is a compassionate move. It reminds me of Jesus’ teaching about the Sabbath in Matthew 12. The religious leaders criticized the disciples for gathering grain to eat on the Sabbath and breaking the fourth commandment. Jesus answered the critics by saying, “If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Then he healed a man. In this case, it was to save a life, not take one. The command to keep the Sabbath still stands, but compassion and response to urgent needs permitted exceptions.

This principle, applied to the legislation, was argued as providing the thin edge of the wedge to more permissive legislation that would be repugnant to most thoughtful Christians.

However, the Supreme Court’s decision dismissed the “slippery slope” argument, concluding that one must show faith in the legislators to consider the current values of Canadians, without conflicting with the Constitution.

Naive, some would say. But legislation is our only method of determining what Canadian society can or cannot accept.

The ball has been, rightly, thrown back to the lawmakers to accept their responsibility.

What is the line between The Salvation Army’s position that “people deserve to have their suffering minimized in every possible way” and an executor of a potential estate consenting to euthanize a severely disabled adult?

There isn’t much time for the government to develop a response. Perhaps, however, it is time to rethink a more realistic and helpful approach to our position on physician-assisted suicide that takes into account the new legal reality, shaping the resulting legislation without running roughshod over our current position.

BOB

DEAR BOB,

T

he Army’s international position statement is difficult to decipher. Perhaps it was written that way purposely, so that there is some flexibility with individual cases.

If there is anything to be said in favour of legalized PAS, it is that the government thereby gives great freedom to individuals. People can make their own moral choices.

If I understand the idea behind the second and third principles of the Army’s international position statement, blessing is granted to the executor who might say, “Let’s not keep grandfather alive through artificial means any longer.” Most people would agree that using a ventilator to extend physical life for a long time after a patient has been declared clinically brain-dead becomes nothing but financially and emotionally exhausting for the family. In the case of younger people, we are more resistant to end life support, but even then families often make that decision.

It’s the fourth principle of the statement that I find so difficult. It doesn’t sound as though it condones intentional death. But perhaps it does leave a loophole.

Still, hastened death in response to unbearable pain or a hopeless comatose state is one thing. Taking one’s life because of emotional despair is quite another. Certainly the government may say they can be trusted and there will be no slippery slope.

But things change. Fifty years ago, I suppose no one would have thought that any sort of suicide would become acceptable—and certainly not considered “dignified.” Morality and Christian sensibilities can be worn down in small increments.

Perhaps 50 years from now, euthanasia for emotional reasons will be considered normal and we’ll be debating whether or not the euthanasia laws should apply to children. The thought of that gives me the chills.

AMY DEAR AMY,

M

orality and Christian sensibilities can be worn down, particularly when rigid, difficult-to-defend positions are taken. At the same time, I see the Christian faith as dynamic, where attitudes are adjusted to reflect the increased knowledge of the world around us. Otherwise, we would still be accepting the 6,000-year chronology Bishop Ussher superimposed on the biblical creation narrative. More rigid stances become worn down faster in these times when decisions of life and death are being faced in hospitals and at bedsides every day.

As an international social welfare organization, The Salvation Army is known to be pragmatic and reasonable, a voice that should be included in the conversation. A “no, you can’t/yes, we can” argument will not assist government in forming good legislation. What can we accept, short of total agreement? Physical pain? Emotional or psychological distress? Loss of autonomy? Injection of a lethal drug?

I urge the territory to participate in the discussion in a helpful and meaningful way in order to manage the next steps.

It may require a review of our current position statement to identify and articulate what thoughtful Canadians consider reasonable boundaries. But we have the opportunity to help develop legislation that can help Christians and others make good decisions when facing the emotional issues around impending death preceded by intolerable pain and suffering.

BOB Salvationist • June 2015 • 15

Boundless 2015 International Congress to showcase products from Others, a Salvation Army social enterprise

BY BO CHRISTOFFER BREKKE WITH KELLY ZVOBGO

Congress delegates will receive commemorative bags handcrafted in Dhaka, Bangladesh

T

he Salvation Army’s 150th anniversary international congress, Boundless—The Whole World Redeeming, is set to be a lifechanging experience for those attending the event this July and participating online, but it is already helping transform lives through its partnership with Others in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Others—Trade for Hope is a Salvation Army social enterprise that aims to use commercial trading activities to create employment opportunities for producers recruited through Salvation Army development projects, community work or corps. The international congress office based at International Headquarters in London, England, is currently one of Others’ biggest customers. Others will supply lanyards and bags for fully registered delegates who have a ticket for all five days of the congress.

Production of the Boundless lanyards secured two months’ income for approximately 50 people in Lahore, Pakistan

One Army The congress office contacted Others early in the planning process. The result has been a partnership beneficial to both sides. For the producers who sell their products through Others, the congress order translated into months’ worth of

work and the pride that comes with having their products showcased at an international event of such historical significance. For the congress office, the order means they are assured of receiving high-quality, customized products that will help take the congress logo

16 • June 2015 • Salvationist

Opportunities to Support The idea of using the Army’s purchasing power to create employment can be traced back to The Salvation Army’s founder, William Booth. With the global presence of today’s Salvation Army, the opportunities are far greater than they have ever been. If you are planning to attend Boundless 2015, look for the Others stand at the congress.

In July, knowing that a story of hope lies behind every product, congress delegates can wear their lanyards and carry their bags with pride. Others products will also be available for sale at the congress, so the message for delegates is simple: leave a bit of extra space in your suitcase!

To learn more or to discuss partnership ideas with Others Global, visit tradeforhope.com.

Article: Courtesy newfrontierchronicle.org; photos: Jan Aasmann Størksen

Trading in Hope

and the Salvation Army shield onto the streets of London and beyond. The partnership with Others embodies the goal of being “One Army,” showing how a need in one part of the Army world can be met by a program in another.

“Others isn’t primarily about products, costs and colours. It’s about people, people and people,” says Jan Aasmann Størksen, general manager of Others Global. Production of the Boundless delegate bags provided seven months’ work for producers linked with The Salvation Army’s counselling and development centre in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka. The centre works with commercial sex workers, victims of human trafficking and other vulnerable women in the Old Dhaka neighbourhood. For many of the women, working with and making products for Others is a crucial step to reintegration into society.

Production of the Boundless lanyards secured two months’ income for approximately 50 producers in production groups in Lahore, Pakistan.

Producers come from various vulnerable backgrounds and are graduates from The Salvation Army’s Sustainable Livelihood Development Program. The lanyard order gave them an opportunity to implement the skills they have gained and earn extra income for their families.

In both areas, the Boundless order is a great contribution toward the goals of Others: supporting hope, dignity and independence for producers who might otherwise struggle to get a job or make ends meet.

Ending Chronic Homelessness The emerging response of Salvation Army shelters

he Salvation Army began operating rescue homes and shelters in Canada in 1886, and its 51 emergency shelters operate nearly one in five of all Canadian emergency shelter beds.

While this record of service is unrivalled, the context in which the Army has been providing emergency shelter services has been changing. For the past three decades, the number of people experiencing homelessness has steadily increased. To address this, governments across North America and Europe have adopted the Housing First approach.

“Its philosophy is simple,” says Alison Kooistra, a special project consultant with the Army. “It’s about helping people who are experiencing chronic and episodic homelessness to access housing and maintain it.” The Housing First movement has had marked success over the years, and some funders have asked Salvation Army shelters to take this type of approach. However, while the philosophy is simple, putting it into practice with different levels of funding, community resources and funder expectations can be fairly complicated.

To develop a co-ordinated approach to support ministry units, the National Advisory Board (NAB) of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda created a homelessness task team in 2013.

“We began with the premise that The Salvation Army is committed to working with persons impacted by homelessness,” says Mary Ellen Eberlin, territorial social services secretary, “and to provide mission-focused programs and services for persons seeking emergency shelter.”

Aims Between January and October 2014, the team conducted an extensive literature review, surveyed 53 Canadian Salvation Army emergency shelters, and consulted with 319 people, which included 207 officers and staff, 73 clients and 39 external experts, service providers and funders. Site visits took place in

Photo: © iStock.com/3dts

T

BY KEN RAMSTEAD, EDITOR, FAITH & FRIENDS AND FOI & VIE

Vancouver, Abbotsford, B.C., Calgary, Winnipeg, London, Ont., Montreal and St. John’s, N.L. “The overarching goal,” says Kooistra, “was to create a framework for emergency shelters that would be aligned with Housing First, but that would go beyond Housing First. We wanted to develop a response grounded in the values and mission of The Salvation Army, representing the best practices identified

by Salvation Army staff and clients, by other experts working in the field and by the available published research.”

Conclusions Building on their learnings from the research and consultations, the homelessness task team developed seven operating principles for emergency shelters: 1. We take a person-centred, holistic approach and ensure that people with particular vulnerabilities are supported.

2. We help people experiencing chronic and episodic homelessness to access stable, positive housing and appropriate supports.

3. We use harm-reduction principles to guide services to clients and behaviour-based criteria for restricting access to shelter.

4. We ensure people who have high needs receive accompaniment and follow-up services.

5. We aim to make every discharge

from shelter an organized departure.

6. We co-ordinate services and participate in planning with community partners.

7. We track and analyze outcomes to inform planning and policy decisions and continually improve services.

Early this year, the homelessness task team presented the principles to the NAB. They were approved and passed along to the territorial management board, which endorsed them as well and directed that they be implemented in Salvation Army emergency shelters in Canada.

Next Steps Now that the operating principles have been approved, the implementation plan will focus on providing training sessions, revising existing accreditation standards to reflect these principles, establishing a glossary of terms, and collecting and co-ordinating sample practices and policies that support the operating principles.

“The operating principles for emergency shelters focus on the individual experiencing homelessness,” says Eberlin. “In all cases, the goal is the same—to meet a person’s immediate need for shelter and to help them to find long-term, sustainable solutions to their homelessness.”

Salvationist • June 2015 • 17

For Such a Time as This Conference encourages participants to live right, lead right

Photos: Giselle Randall

BY GISELLE RANDALL, FEATURES EDITOR

T

he Ontario Great Lakes Division held a leadership development weekend in London, Ont., from April 17-19, encouraging the nearly 250 participants to “live right, lead right.”

Joining Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, were keynote speaker Dr. Marjory Kerr, academic vice-president and dean of Booth University College, Carol MacKinnon, certified leadership coach, and a host of other workshop presenters.

“This is the first time we’ve had an event like this in many years,” said Major Morris Vincent, divisional commander, Ontario Great Lakes Division.

“Leadership development is one of the six pillars of our strategic plan, and we sensed the need for officers, lay leaders, employees and volunteers to feel equipped and supported by the division.”

“It’s an opportunity for people to identify any gaps in their leadership skills, edges that need to be sharp18 • June 2015 • Salvationist

ened, in order to raise the standard of excellence a little higher,” added Major Wanda Vincent, divisional director of women’s ministries. “And also to focus on our spiritual health and well-being, to make sure we’re leading from within.

As Christians, our leadership has to be founded in the source, in God, and our relationship with God. It is out of who we are that we lead forward, lead well, lead right.”

Models of Leadership The conference began with a message from Dr. Kerr, who offered four examples of leadership from the Book of Esther, and what they might look like in our context. In Esther 4, Mordecai asks Esther, “… who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?”

(Esther 4:14).

“Whatever has brought you here, it is for such a time as this,” Dr. Kerr said.

The emphasis on the spiritual foundation for leadership was also reflected

Back, from left, Don Mitchell, Kelvin Lee, Dr. Marjory Kerr, Mjr Keith Pike, Mjr Kevin Metcalf, Mjr Mike Puddicombe, James Watson.

Front, from left, Mjr Morris Vincent, Carol MacKinnon, Mjr Shari Russell, Commissioner Susan McMillan, Mjr Shona Pike, Mjr Karen Puddicombe, Mjr Wanda Vincent

in the structure of Saturday’s workshops, which began with sessions on cultivating spiritual growth before moving on to sessions on courage and capacity building.

Majors Brian and Lynn Armstrong, directors of pastoral services at territorial headquarters, led a workshop on the importance of soul care and self-care, providing resources on spiritual disciplines and ways to maintain a healthy life.

For Devon Howes-Jones and Nicole Theroux, who work with people with dementia at Mountberry Adult Day Services in Stoney Creek, Ont., the workshop was a chance to slow down and examine the connection between “doing” and “being.”

“I need to take a good, close look at my life. I have a lot of empty circles,”

said Theroux, referring to a handout that helped attendees reflect on their support systems.

“I love my position, but we’re always taking care of others,” said Howes-Jones.

“It’s important to take care of myself. I need to remember what replenishes me.”

Dave McFadden, who attends Niagara Orchard Community Church, Ont., and was recently accepted to the College for Officer Training along with his wife, Renée, attended a workshop led by Colonel Lindsay Rowe, corps officer at Oshawa Temple. “It’s what’s underneath that counts—your relationship with God,” McFadden said. “If you don’t develop that, then your life, your ministry, will fall apart sooner or later.

Without passion, life is nothing. So often we see misplaced passion, when we were designed to be filled with God.” Afternoon sessions focused on courage and building capacity, with practical workshops on church revitalization, managing change, leading leaders, understanding today’s culture and navigating difficult situations and conversations, among others.

Before the conference, participants received a navigation guide with exercises designed to help them make the most of the weekend, beginning with identifying their learning objectives.

On Saturday evening, Carol MacKinnon offered an optional coaching workshop to review these goals and help participants develop a plan to put their learning into practice.

Integrated Mission After the evening meal on Saturday, Commissioner McMillan gave a presentation on integrated mission. “Integrated mission is not a program; it’s a way of life. It’s how we relate to our commun-

Devon Howes-Jones and Nicole Theroux work at Mountberry Adult Day Services in Stoney Creek, Ont.

ities,” she said.

Commissioner McMillan referred to the booklet Mission in Community (available at saministryresources.ca/ integrated-mission), which describes integrated mission as a comprehensive understanding of salvation as physical, mental, social and spiritual health for every person, and the practice of accompaniment of individuals, families and communities.

The territorial commander outlined the theological roots, beliefs and behaviours of four key concepts—care, community, change and hope—and emphasized the importance of relationships. To reinforce how we should relate to our communities, she discussed past approaches to development work that have offered superficial or paternalistic solutions, and then talked about the tools of faith-based facilitation.

“What does integrated mission— mission in community—mean in your context?” she challenged the conference participants.

Final Words Sunday morning began with a time of worship, led by Stephanie Forystek, who attends Sauble Christian Fellowship in Sauble Beach, Ont. “We can’t reveal Jesus if we don’t have a relationship with Jesus,” she reminded those assembled.

Dr. Kerr shared a final message from Philippians on the deep joy the love of Christ brings, joy that goes beyond our feelings and our circumstances. The conference concluded with worship as people came to the mercy seat in prayer.

“If we’re going to be a transforming influence,” Major Wanda Vincent said, “we need God.”

Noel and Brenda Samuels attend KHi—A Community Church of The Salvation Army, in Milton, Ont., where they are on the leadership team. They want to empower young people to get involved in leadership

Dave and Renée McFadden will attend CFOT this fall

Passion Renewed

For Dave and Renée McFadden, the decision to pursue leadership within The Salvation Army was a long journey. Renée shared their story on Sunday morning.

Early in our marriage, we had the best of intentions and were actively involved in the life of the corps. We continued to pursue leadership roles in children’s ministry, community outreach and small groups as we built our lives and started our family.

But that gap between our leadership skills and the inner core of the leader developed—the neglect of deep spiritual reflection and intentional personal intimacy with God. Challenges came and our souls were dry. We didn’t have the courage to have the crucial conversations when they needed to happen; we avoided the issues and drained ourselves without replenishment.

And then one day, when humbled enough to pray and seek the answer to what was going wrong, the brokenness was brought to light.

God stepped in. Thankfully, we knew just where to meet him, at the foot of the cross.

Although the consequences of our choices didn’t disappear, we were covered by his grace. We know firsthand that he is the God of reconciliation, hope and second chances.

We are learning to cultivate our spiritual formation. It’s a battle to start new habits. Don’t underestimate the battle like we did.

Now that we have restored our relationships and are investing in our spiritual development, God has been calling us to officership. So we are leaving our jobs and packing our bags for training college this fall. It’s a story of grace, forgiveness, love and reconciliation. It’s the salvation story.

Salvationist • June 2015 • 19

Right to Believe

I

With persecution on the rise, Canada’s Office of Religious Freedom promotes tolerance throughout the world

n February 2013, the Government of Canada established the Office of Religious Freedom to protect and promote religious freedom around the world, with Andrew Bennett as the office’s first ambassador. Associate editor Kristin Ostensen spoke to Ambassador Bennett about where religious persecution is greatest, what the office is doing and why his Christian faith is essential to the work he does.

Why is it important for Canada to have an Office of Religious Freedom (ORF)?

Over the last number of years, we’ve seen an increase of cases of religious persecution in many parts of the world. You see what’s happening in the Middle East with ISIL [Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant] and their barbaric persecution of religious minorities, including Christians, Shiite Muslims and Sunni Muslims who refuse to accept their distorted view of Islam. We’re also seeing sustained religious persecution in other parts of the world, such as Pakistan and China, where government restrictions on different religious communities are very harsh. There was a need to highlight the defence and promotion of religious freedom in the world within the government’s broader human rights policy framework.

How does the ORF promote religious freedom in the world today?

There are three parts to our work: advocacy and outreach activities, policy development and programming activities.

We don’t have a domestic policy mandate, so our goal is not to defend religious freedom in Canada. But it’s important that I reach out to different faith communities here to better understand the concerns they have about what is happening overseas. So this could be Tibetan Buddhists or South Asian Christians, or it could be communities such as The Salvation Army or the Catholic Church who have a long-established presence in a country, and various para-church organizations that can partner with us in advancing our mandate overseas.

I also meet with people in various countries where there are violations of religious freedom. Right now, we are focusing on 15 to 20 countries where significant violations are taking place.

I engage with representatives of different faith communities and with government officials to call them to account for either their actions or inactions. And I meet with non-governmental organizations and human rights organizations to gain a better understanding of what is happening in those countries.

Our advocacy and outreach activities inform our policy 20 • June 2015 • Salvationist

Ambassador Andrew Bennett

work. We take in information from a variety of sources, including the people we reach out to, from our embassies and high commissions abroad, from academics. We take that information and come up with policies. Each country has a different set of issues so we have to have tailored policies for each situation. That policy development process then informs our programming activities through the Religious Freedom Fund.

What is the Religious Freedom Fund?

The ORF has a $5-million budget per year, and $4.25 million goes to the fund, which supports projects that address the root causes of religious persecution. We currently have 15 projects in different countries around the world—most are multi-year projects.

Can you give me some examples of projects supported by the fund?

We have a multi-year project in Indonesia where we’re partnering with Setara Institute for Democracy and Peace to monitor religious freedom there, document specific cases of religious freedom violations and then report back on that, both to the Indonesian government and to our office. We’re also trying to develop a capacity-building program for religious minorities and victims of religious freedom violations in the country.

We have a project in Sri Lanka with a Canadian partner called the Equitas International Centre for Human Rights Education where we’re dealing with a post-conflict situation.

Sri Lanka has come out of a period of civil war, so there are sometimes challenges with the Sinhala nationalists who are strongly Buddhist and the Tamils who are Hindus. There are also small Christian and Muslim minority groups. Equitas is working to have a number of different educational modules and a variety of activities that will try to foster discussion about respect for difference.

And in Ukraine we’re working with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe on a project that promotes security for religious communities there. A lot of the work they’ll be doing will be training law enforcement agencies in how to address hate crimes.

What is your religious background and how does that affect the way you do your job as ambassador?

I think regardless of who the government chooses to take this position as Ambassador for Religious Freedom—whether they are Jewish, Muslim, Christian or atheist—they’re always going to bring their own perspective to the role. I’m Ukrainian Greek Catholic, and I wear my faith on my sleeve—I’m a devout Christian and I couldn’t do this job if I didn’t have a strong faith.

Ambassador Bennett meets with His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Why do you say that?

Because it’s part of who I am—I can’t separate my work from my faith. My faith informs my work. For Christians, there is a strong emphasis on seeing the image and likeness of God in others, and I think that links intrinsically to the idea of human dignity. When we defend religious freedom, it’s a defence of the dignity of every human being. So being a Christian and having that incarnational understanding helps me reach out to people from all faith backgrounds. Fundamentally, I’m not defending a theological position; I’m defending human beings.

Where is freedom of religion most suppressed today?

There are various ways in which religious freedom can be violated. There can be government restrictions on religious freedom, including the ability to worship in peace and security, the ability to engage in missionary activity if that’s what your faith calls you to, the freedom to not have any religious belief and the freedom to change religion. Some of the most egregious examples of countries where there are significant government restrictions on religious freedom would be China, Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Then there are countries where there are no government restrictions on religious freedom, but there are significant social hostilities between one group and another. In Nigeria, for example, you have sectarian divisions between Christians and Muslims, which each represent 50 percent of the country’s population. There’s also Boko Haram [an Islamist group], which goes beyond violations of religious freedom and into violent extremism and terrorism.

In a country such as Pakistan, there are both significant restrictions on certain religious communities and social hostilities, whether they’re Hindus, Muslims or Christians—there’s a whole range of groups that face a societal persecution in Pakistan.

Tell me about some of the successes the ORF has had since its inception.

One of our great successes is a program in Nigeria where we’ve partnered with a Geneva-based organization called the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. This project is in the Middle Belt of the country where Christians and Muslims meet, in and around the city of Jos. There is a significant history of sectarian violence in Jos, and even recently there have been bombings there—perpetrated, we expect, by Boko Haram.

This project has built networks between the Christian and Muslim communities so they could get to know each other,

communicate and recognize that violence hurts both communities. The dialogues that were launched by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue have had tremendous success.

Whenever there has been a bombing in Jos or an increase in tensions, these networks spring into action, contact each other quickly and reduce the tension. In the last two cases of bombs exploding in Jos, there has been no upsurge in sectarian violence and this project has played a large part in that. Now there are other parts of the country that are looking to this model to help manage their own challenges when it comes to sectarian issues.

As an ambassador, do you ever feel the limits of diplomacy? I’m thinking, for example, of the 220 Assyrian Christians who were recently abducted in Syria. Your office can issue a statement and we can pray for their release, but there are limits on what we can do. How do you deal with that?

I think the realities of religious persecution in the world need to be acknowledged and that we can’t always take the measures that we need to take to free these people. Right now I’m looking at a Coptic icon of the 21 martyrs of Libya [beheaded earlier this year], and I’ve got on my computer monitor in front of me a picture of Metropolitan Paul of Aleppo and Bishop Gregorios Ibrahim of Aleppo, who were kidnapped in Syria almost two years ago. I see these two images every day when I come in to work.

Why do you keep them on your computer monitor?

To remind me of why I need to do what I’m doing. There are people facing persecution who sometimes go forgotten. I can only imagine the pain and suffering that these bishops are undergoing—the pain and suffering of being held captive, but also the pain of being away from their flocks.

So there are limits to diplomacy, absolutely, but if we don’t use diplomacy—if we don’t use all of the tools we have at our disposal—then we are doing an insufficient job in trying to target religious persecution. We’re not going to change the situation in these countries overnight. In some of these countries, it could take generations to bring about stronger institutions, greater respect for the rule of law, greater freedoms. It’s going to be a long process, but we have to start somewhere. We have a responsibility to defend others who face persecution, and we have to have faith that we can make a difference, so there must be perseverance.

Salvationist • June 2015 • 21

CROSS CULTURE

FROM SALVATION ARMY AUTHORS Higher Higher Education

Integrating holiness into all of campus life

by Jonathan S. Raymond After 40 years in higher education—24 of which were spent in Christian colleges and universities, including Winnipeg’s Booth University College and Trinity Western University in Langley, B.C.—Dr. Jonathan Raymond is uniquely qualified to write about Christian post-secondary education. His new book asks: Is there a pinnacle of higher education not yet reached, and what does it look like? “This book is about the appropriate relationship of holiness and higher learning,” writes Raymond. Drawing on theology, social psychology and personal experience, Higher Higher Education offers an integrative vision for Christian education.

Freedom Unleashed

A Christian perspective on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

by Captain Troy Pittaway The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) gets a theological exploration in Freedom Unleashed, a new book

by Captain Troy Pittaway, an officer of the Australia Southern Territory who has degrees in Christian ministry, international health and human rights law, and is undertaking a doctorate to study the coping strategies of Sudanese refugee youth in Australia. More than a commentary on the UDHR, Freedom Unleashed offers a Salvationist perspective on the interplay of human rights, social justice and faith. “Human rights essentially are about the restoration of humanity to a standard that encompasses everyone,” Pittaway writes. “Christianity is about the restoration of humanity beyond that standard, to something more—to being the rightful sons and daughters of God.”

Wings of the Dawn

A collection of Sunday morning meditations

by Byron A. Brooks Written by Canadian Salvationist Byron A. Brooks, Wings of the Dawn is a collection of 40 short devotional messages that can be read in preparation for worship on a Sunday morning. The personal tone of the book draws on the author’s life experiences, as well as The Song Book of The Salvation Army, offering meditations on a variety of topics. The book reminds readers that whether we “rise on the wings of the dawn, or settle on the far side of the sea” (see Psalm 139:9-10), God’s presence can still be felt in our lives. Available at amazon.ca.

ON THE WEB The Homeless Read Mean Tweets

https://youtu.be/0BXxxfc4aYc “The Homeless Read Mean Tweets” is a powerful take on the “Celebrities Read Mean Tweets” segment from late night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live. As the name suggests, host Jimmy Kimmel has celebrities read tweets that have been written about them by anonymous Twitter users. The effect is comic, but in “The Homeless Read Mean Tweets,” it becomes tragic. “If home is where the heart is,” reads one homeless woman, “then are homeless people heartless?”

Produced by Raising the Roof Canada, the video aims to shift how the public perceives homelessness.

ON DVD Selma

Directed by Ava DuVernay Selma (now on DVD) chronicles the tumultuous three-month period in 1965, when Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo) led a dangerous campaign to secure equal voting rights in the face of violent opposition.

The epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, culminated in President Lyndon Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965, one of the most significant victories for the civil rights movement.

Directed by Ava DuVernay (who received a Golden Globe nomination for the film), Selma tells the real story of how the revered leader and visionary Martin Luther King Jr. and his brothers and sisters in the movement prompted change that forever altered history.

IN THE NEWS Religion Not Declining as Quickly as Thought A new poll from the Angus Reid Institute shows that while more people than ever now reject religion (26 percent), 30 percent of Canadians say they embrace religion, and 44 percent say they are “somewhere in between.”

Further, of those who embrace religion, more than 50 percent attend services at least once a month.

Religiosity is even higher among immigrants to Canada.

Among those born outside the country, 40 percent say they embrace religion, and almost half of immigrants aged 18 to 34 say they attend a service at least once a month.

Source: macleans.ca/society/life/what-canadians-really-believe

22 • June 2015 • Salvationist

Vive la France!

How moving to a new country showed me God’s faithfulness

BY KATHLEEN MOULTON

M

oving to France for seven months to teach children English sounded perfect when I applied for the job. I want to be a teacher, so it seemed like a great opportunity to gain experience. But a few weeks after I arrived, 23,148 kilometres away from home, I started to panic. I’d never left my family, even to work at summer camp. I felt alone and scared, almost like I couldn’t breathe.

As tears of homesickness rolled down my cheeks, I stopped for a moment and prayed. I asked God to send me a sign that I was going to be OK, that I was meant to be here. Not a minute later, I heard a BOOM! and ran to the window to see fireworks. Now, every time I doubt myself, I think of those fireworks and remember I’m here for a reason.

I work at a primary school in Persan, a small town just north of Paris, teaching children from Grades 2 to 5. They never fail to brighten my day. Working in a classroom has made my desire to become a teacher even stronger.

Poste de Paris, a Salvation Army corps in the 14th district, has welcomed me with open arms. I sing in the songsters and on the worship team and I’m

Moulton attends Poste de Paris, a Salvation Army corps in the 14th district

in the beginners’ brass band. Even though I’m far away, when I’m with other Salvationists, it feels like home. WillyJean and Simonetta Wally, a couple from the corps, have looked after me from the day I arrived— picking me up at the airport, having me over for Christmas and sending me messages every so often to make sure I’m OK. I’ve also made some ama zing friends from all over the world. We have explored Paris together, visiting monument s and trying new restaurants. I’ve discovered that I love to Kathleen Moulton is spending seven months teaching English in France eat! Croissants and baguettes have become a regular part scared to leave my home for a week. It of my diet. The French take food serwas a hard reality to experience, but I iously—dinner has several courses and thank God each day that my friends and lasts a few hours.

I are alive. Participating in the Je Suis I’ve also discovered that I love to Charlie march, alongside four million travel. I’ve been to Brussels, Amsterdam, other people, was extraordinary. It was Lisbon and Albufeira in Portugal, and amazing to see so many come together Seville, Spain. Experiencing Europe has for the same reason, that we are one. opened my eyes to a new part of the Being on the other side of the world world. There are so many people on this has challenged me to put my faith in earth—we are all different and I think God every day. Of course, I’m human it’s amazing how God created and loves and sometimes struggle with doubt. every one of us.

Leaving all of my family and friends Some things have been a challenge— behind was hard, but after seeing those finding a place to live, setting up a bank fireworks, I realized I’m not alone and account and starting a new job—with have never been alone. God has been by people who only speak French, really my side every step of the way. He loves quickly! People kept saying to me, C’est me, uplifts me and keeps me safe. la France, which means “It’s France.”

When I got on the plane to go to The terrorist attacks on Charlie France, I discovered I have a little more Hebdo were frightening. France raised courage than I ever thought I had. I am its terror alert to its highest level and my grateful for this opportunity and for school was blocked off for security. I was God’s never-failing love.

Salvationist • June 2015 • 23

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

ENROLMENTS AND RECOGNITION

GUELPH, ONT.—From left, Devan Madden, Caleb Holmes, Eleanor Merritt, Meaghan Staniforth, Emily Williams, Vanessa Madden and Aimee Madden proudly display their certificates as they are enrolled as junior soldiers at Guelph Citadel. Supporting them are their fellow junior soldiers; Mjrs Chris and Claudette Pilgrim, COs; Tammy Bellingham, infant and children ministries co-ordinator; ACSM Graham Cummins; and Ryan Seguin, youth and young adult co-ordinator.

WINNIPEG—Cpt Peter van Duinen, CO, welcomes nine adherents to Southlands CC. From left, Matt Schnaider, Yvonne Schnaider, Ricardo Pequenino, Asha Edirisinghe, Ajantha Edirisinghe, Ademola Oladejo, Taiwo Oladejo, Felix Olowolafe and Jadesola Olowolafe.

GLOVER’S HARBOUR, N.L.—April Ward publicly acknowledges her commitment to Jesus Christ as she is enrolled as a senior soldier at Glover’s Harbour Corps. Supporting her are CSM Hubert Ward and Lt Jaclyn Wynne, CO.

PRINCE RUPERT, B.C.—Standing under the flag held by CSM Ken Copping, three senior soldiers are enrolled at Prince Rupert Corps.

From left, Cpt Nancy Sheils, CO; Sarah Aster; Peggy Luckham-Okrainitz; Frances Wesley; and Cpt Gary Sheils, CO. 24 • June 2015 • Salvationist

GEORGINA, ONT.—Mjr Barbara Pearce, CO, Georgina CC, shares a moment with volunteers Larry and Cathy Trollope during an appreciation luncheon to honour the more than 170 people who volunteered to help with Christmas kettles in their community this past year.

SPRINGHILL, N.S.—Cpts Kathleen and Chad Ingram, COs, welcome Alyssa Grant-McFadden as the newest junior soldier at Springhill CC. Wally Armour, welcome sergeant, holds the flag.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Mjrs Rene and Wanda Loveless, COs, support Rick Hynes as he is commissioned as corps sergeant-major at St. John’s Temple.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Natalie Simms of Grand Falls Citadel receives a certificate for completing the Ready to Serve program. From left, Mjr Marilyn Blackler, CO; Natalie Simms; Frank Keats, colour sergeant; Cpt Tim Andrews, DYS, N.L. Div; and Mjr Maurice Blackler, CO.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Adam Moss of Grand Falls Citadel receives a certificate for completing the CROSSzone program. From left, Mjr Marilyn Blackler, CO; Adam Moss; Frank Keats, colour sergeant; Cpt Tim Andrews, DYS, N.L. Div; and Mjr Maurice Blackler, CO.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Mya Rowsell and Sam Gullage are the newest junior soldiers at Grand Falls Citadel. Supporting them are, from left, Mjr Marilyn Blackler, CO; Frank Keats, colour sergeant; Cpt Tim Andrews, DYS, N.L. Div; and Mjr Maurice Blackler, CO.

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

BARRIE, ONT.—Two senior soldiers and one adherent have joined the ranks at Barrie Corps. From left, Mjr Colin Bain, CO; Isabelle Fawcett, adherent; Linda Bayliss, senior soldier; Lennard Johnston, director of business administration, holding the flag; Stephen Bayliss, senior soldier; Valma Volz, membership class facilitator; and Mjr Maureen Bain, CO.

GEORGINA, ONT.—Supported by their leaders, young people at Georgina CC are recognized for their participation in various youth programs at the corps, including Ready to Serve and junior action.

Supporting Partners in Mission in Portage la Prairie

OSHAWA, ONT.—During a visit of the Canadian Staff Band to Oshawa Temple in support of music camp sponsorships, six young people are commissioned as senior musicians. From left, BM Andrew Burditt, bandmaster, Oshawa Temple; Dara-Lynn Gerard, songster leader, Oshawa Temple; Katherine Burditt; Mitchell Lyons; Emily Noel; Charlie Ball, holding the flag; Sarah Ball; Kaylin Frost; Alexandria Gerard and Mjr Kevin Metcalf, executive officer of the Canadian Staff Band and territorial secretary for music and gospel arts.

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE, MAN.—On the last Sunday of every month, Portage la Prairie Corps hosts a unique potluck luncheon that is incorporated into the worship service. Taking place in the sanctuary around tables and chairs during the worship service, the meal allows people to enjoy their food while worshipping and hearing the Word. Potluck Sunday in March was special because instead of bringing food, church members were asked to bring the money they would have spent on preparing a potluck dish to donate to Partners in Mission. A pot was placed at the corps’ “To Africa, With Love” Partners in Mission display where the money was placed. “Instead of eating,” explains Cpt Amanda Robinson, CO, “we focused on praying for our partnering territories.” The event raised $250, taking the corps’ total for their six-week campaign to $949.30, well above their target of $500. Cdt Donna Downey (left) is shown with members of the congregation.

Officer Retirement

CONCEPTION BAY SOUTH, N.L.—Joshua Pardy and Ethan Holloway are enrolled as junior soldiers at Conception Bay South Corps. Supporting them are other junior soldiers who renewed their pledges; Mjrs Lorne and Barbara Pritchett, COs; Claudette Hillier and Rosemarie Dobson, leaders; and Jerry Mercer, colour sergeant, holding the flag.

COBOURG, ONT.—The corps family at Cobourg CC celebrates as nine adherents are welcomed, two senior soldiers are enrolled and a senior soldier is reinstated. From left, Cpt Michael Simpson, CO; Krystyne Gillespie; Mike Graham, holding the flag; Pat Leavitt; Corrie Leavitt; River Leavitt; Sue Leslie; Bob Leslie; Dora Burnie; Alison Young; Milka Grozdanovska; Fred Young; Kaitlyn Young; Drew Young; and Cpt Carolyn Simpson, CO.

Major Mary Smith (nee Hillman) attended The Salvation Army in Leamington, Ont., from an early age. Faithful corps leaders and officers took an interest in Mary and her six siblings and kept them connected to God and the church. Mary accepted Jesus at the age of seven in a Sunday school decision time. By the age of 16, she had become the young people’s sergeant-major and acknowledged a call to officership. Commissioned with her husband, Brad Smith, in 1978, they served in seven corps appointments, including The Pas, Man.; Harbour Light, Hamilton, Bermuda; North Bay and Gananoque, Ont.; Portage la Prairie, Man.; Medicine Hat, Alta.; and Richmond, B.C. In five of these appointments, the corps had building projects, with major additions in the last three. Following Brad’s sudden promotion to glory while still an active officer, Mary continued to serve and will now retire to Medicine Hat where her children have settled.

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Salvationist • June 2015 • 25

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

GAZETTE

TERRITORIAL Births Lts Justin/Colleen Gleadall, son, Emery John David, Apr 7; Lts Stefan/ Laura Van Schaick, son, Shawn Eugene, Apr 10 Reaccepted—with rank of lieutenant Mary Tim (effective June 20) Reaccepted—with rank of captain Steven/Lynette Barrett, Glenda McKenzie, Donald/Kathryn Ratcliff (effective June 26) Long service—25 years Mjr Marilyn Furey Appointments Mjr William Barthau, assistant executive director—manager of operations, JPCC; Mjr Eileen Butler-Caughie, resident support officer, Meighen Health Centre, Meighen Retirement Residence, Toronto, Ont. CE Div; Mjr Carson Durdle, director of spiritual care, Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports, Ont. CE Div; Mjr Nelson Fillier, director of support services, Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports, Ont. CE Div; Mjr Karen Lemke, financial co-ordinator, world missions department, THQ; Mjrs Clarence/Karen Ingram, DC/DDWM, Bahamas Div (with Turks and Caicos Islands), Caribbean Tty (effective Aug 1) Promoted to glory Mrs Cpt Mildred Udell, from Mississauga, Ont., Mar 24; Mrs Aux-Cpt D. (Edith) Leach, from Bracebridge, Ont., Mar 30; Mjr Deanna Barber, from Edmonton, Apr 9

CALENDAR

Commissioner Susan McMillan Jun 12-14 CFOT, Winnipeg; Jun 19-21 commissioning, Toronto; Jun 25 50th anniversary celebrations, Meighen Retirement Residence, Toronto; Jun 28 Meighen Retirement Residence, Toronto Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley Jun 6-7 anniversary celebrations, Winterberry Heights Church, Stoney Creek, Ont. GL Div; Jun 14 CFOT, Winnipeg; Jun 19-21 commissioning, Toronto Canadian Staff Band Jun 6-7 anniversary celebrations, Winterberry Heights Church, Stoney Creek, Ont. GL Div; Jun 19-21 commissioning, Toronto

TRIBUTES LONDON, ONT.—Mrs. Brigadier Georgina L. Tuck (nee Aikman) was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1914.

Immigrating to Canada with her family in 1921, she attended girl guides at East Toronto Corps and accepted Christ during a girl-guide camp at Jackson’s Point Camp.

She became involved in the corps, where she met and married Sidney A. Tuck in 1936. Commissioned together in the Steadfast Session in 1940, they served 16 years in corps appointments in Ontario and Bermuda, and in public relations for 24 years in Montreal, Sudbury, Ont., Saint John, N.B., Halifax, Windsor and London, Ont. Retiring in London, they attended London Citadel where Georgina continued an effective, caring ministry. Following Sidney’s promotion to glory in 1991, she became further involved in women’s ministries, Bible study and corps activities. Georgina loved to cook and frequently hosted meals at her home and provided treats for shut-ins and those who were ill. As her health declined in the last 10 years, she resided at Longworth Retirement Residence and Westmount Gardens Long-Term Care, from where she was promoted to glory. Georgina is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Beverly Phillips (Howard); son, Archie (Helen); four granddaughters; four great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

COLLINGWOOD, ONT.—Promoted to glory at the age of 87, Ethel Beaupre (nee Hewitt) was born and raised in the Collingwood area. Married to Gerald Beaupre in 1946, they had eight children. Ethel was enrolled as a senior solider in 1965, worked in the thrift store for many years, taught Sunday school and was the home league secretary for over 20 years. At Christmastime, she helped to pack hampers and sort toys. Ethel enjoyed cooking and baking, and always provided an abundance of food for corps events. She was well loved and is deeply missed by her family, friends, corps family and community. Ethel is survived by her children, Margaret (Gordon) Bishop, Sharon (Fred) Bradshaw, Rod (Roseanne), Grace (Paul) Mutton, Major Debra, Robbin (Debbie) and Karen (Marty) Lawson; 14 grandchildren; 25 greatgrandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; 13 siblings; many nieces and nephews; extended family and friends.

SHERWOOD PARK, ALTA.—Mrs. Major Eva Thornhill (nee Lamb) was born in Vancouver in 1929. During her teenage years, she was active as a corps cadet, songster and girl guide at Grandview Corps. Eva entered the training college in the Ambassadors Session in 1950. Following commissioning, she was appointed to Penticton, B.C., where she served until her marriage to Harold Thornhill in 1953. They served together at corps in Nelson, Kitsilano (Vancouver) and South Burnaby, B.C. In 1959, they transferred to the Army’s health services department, where they ministered for 34 years. During that time, Eva served in various capacities at the Army’s Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, St. John’s, N.L., and Scarborough, Ont., Halifax’s Grace Maternity Hospital and the Women’s Health Centre in Calgary. She is sadly missed by Harold, her husband of 62 years; children Philip (Nancy), Robert (Gail), Karen (Bruce) Coley, Paul (Rosemary) and Cathy Dawe; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three brothers; extended family and friends.

For ages 16 to 30 Jackson’s Point Conference Centre For more information contact the Music and Gospel Arts Department at 416-422-6154 or kevin_metcalf@can.salvationarmy.org Applications available online at salvationist.ca/nationalmusiccamp 26 • June 2015 • Salvationist

ANNUAL CHANGE 2015 Salvation Army officer appointment changes for the Canada and Bermuda Territory are available online at salvationist.ca/annualchange2015

CONVICTIONS MATTER

Ruled Faith

Doctrines are like hockey’s rules—they shape the way the game is played

BY MAJOR RAY HARRIS

I

believe…. Actually, I believe many things. I believe the day is coming when the Toronto Maple Leafs will win the Stanley Cup. (I really do!) I also believe that while the city of Winnipeg has many justice issues, it is a great city in which to live.

More significantly, I believe the Christian faith has much to commend it. C.S. Lewis once said, “I believe in Christianity as I believe the sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” I believe in God’s saving grace, because by it I have come to understand the dignity of every human person, the depths of my sinfulness and that of the world around me, the transforming power of the gospel and the hope to which I have been called. And part of that saving grace includes the community of faith in which I have been nurtured, The Salvation Army.

We believe…. Salvationists believe many things. We believe a sense of humour is vital to faith. We believe God’s presence can be found in a soup kitchen, a floor hockey game, the response to a prairie flood, a Stampede Parade and our corporate worship.

Mjr Ray Harris is an enthusiastic Winnipeg Jets fan

vocation. Lawyers practise law; surgeons practise surgery.

It’s their vocation. Christians practise the vocation of living out Christian faith. It’s what we do.

Doctrines have their beginning in the early church, where it soon became evident that a brief summary of the gospel message was necessary in order to clarify genuine faith from its counterfeits, such as Gnosticism. Summaries of faith, created by early church fathers Irenaeus and Tertullian, were called “the rule of faith.” In time, the writings of the New Testament were formed into a canon, or rule. And other concise summaries, called creeds—from the Latin credo, or belief—were created.

The Salvation Army was born into a Methodist heritage, which had its own core convictions. And in 1878, when the name “The Salvation Army” was given to this movement in East London, its doctrines were also formalized. From its early years, The Salvation Army has been an expression of the church committed to ruled faith. These core convictions shape the faith we live.

As Salvationists celebrate 150 years of history, in 126 nations, we recognize the role our doctrines have played in shaping one Army with one message and one mission. We hold the conviction that the Christian Bible tells the story of God’s saving grace and we can find ourselves in that story. We understand ourselves to be created in the image of the triune God, yet deeply flawed by sin, both personally and communally. We also believe that we are immersed in an immense salvation with its focus on the life, death and Resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. As we work out that boundless salvation through the Holy Spirit, we are transformed personally and communally, and seek to be a transforming influence in our world. These convictions matter!

The rules create the possibility of exciting goals, bone-crushing checks, clean passes and outstanding saves

The Salvation Army has been shaped by its core convictions,

called doctrines. But what difference do they make to the life of

Salvationists in the 21st century? This book explores the relevance and contribution of these historic doctrines for the present age. It argues that each doctrine has something vital to contribute to the Army’s

understanding and practice of holiness. These convictions matter!

“In articulating and reflecting on the core convictions that guide the work of The Salvation Army and hold its communal life together,

Ray Harris has achieved that elusive but essential balance between accessibility and depth. He has put the doctrines of the Army in

conversation with the Salvationist understanding of holiness for the purpose of engaging the future.”

—The Rev. Dr. Karen Hamilton, General Secretary, The Canadian Council of Churches

“Doctrines are not monuments to the past, but living testimonies to

Major Ray Harris is a retired Salvation Army officer.

This is his last column and we thank him for his contribution.

CONVICTIONS MATTER

We also believe in the importance of doctrines. Our doctrines, or core convictions, have shaped who we are and what we do. We have offered this Salvationist series about our doctrines because they are too easily dismissed in our time.

It’s my conviction that Salvationists hold to a “ruled faith.”

Let me explain.

Like many other grandparents, I enjoy watching my sixyear-old grandson play Timbits hockey. It’s great fun to cheer from the stands. This level of hockey has few rules. Some of the players barely know into which goal they are trying to shoot the puck! They take a position for the faceoff, but after that virtually everybody chases the puck at the same time. Next year, Dylan will attempt to play at a level governed by more rules. He will learn about offside, icing the puck, goaltender interference and more.

The rules are not the game, but they shape the game.

They give us the beauty of hockey as played by Jean Béliveau, Hayley Wickenheiser and Sidney Crosby, and the men’s and women’s teams in recent Winter Olympics. The rules create the possibility of exciting goals, bone-crushing checks, clean passes and outstanding saves. Ruled hockey shapes the game.

In a similar way, doctrines help to shape the way Christian faith is practised. By practice I don’t mean rehearsal, but

the present and hopeful signs of the future. Ray Harris adeptly looks at the formation of our doctrines [and] speaks about those doctrines with clarity and purpose [using] a wide range of sources, which

will enrich the doctrinal conversation of the Army with the broader theological world.”

—Dr. Roger J. Green, Professor and Chair of Biblical Studies and Christian Ministries, Terrelle B. Crum Chair of Humanities, Gordon College, Wenham, Massachusetts

Ray Harris is a Salvation Army officer in the Canada and Bermuda Territory. He and his wife, Cathie, have served across Canada in various

an emphasis on curriculum design in theological education. He lives in Winnipeg where he enjoys family, baking muffins, singing Charles Wesley hymns and running in a prairie winter.

Canada and Bermuda Territory

9 780888 575081

RELIGION / The Salvation Army / Church & Doctrine

cover_final_newblue.indd 1

The Function of Salvation Army Doctrines RAY HARRIS

congregational, college and administrative appointments. In the course of his officership, Ray received the Doctor of Ministry degree from Regis College, Toronto School of Theology, with

ISBN: 978-0-88857-508-1

RAY HARRIS FOREWORD JOHN LARSSON

2014-04-08 8:54 AM

Convictions Matter, Major Ray Harris’ book, is available at store.salvationarmy. ca, 416-422-6100, orderdesk@can. salvationarmy.org. For the e-book, visit amazon.ca.

Salvationist • June 2015 • 27

TALKING POINTS

Let Them Eat Cake Religious rights don’t trump human decency

BY MAJOR JUAN BURRY

28 • June 2015 • Salvationist

Photo: © iStock.com/YinYang

T

he subject of religious freedom and discrimination has been in the American news a lot recently. The conversation reached a climax in March, when Indiana introduced the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) in response to a Supreme Court decision limiting religious freedom. Governor Mike Pence argued the Act was intended to protect traditional convictions, but opponents saw it as protection for bigotry—a license to discriminate against gays and lesbians.

This concern caused many groups to cut economic ties with Indiana, and the backlash prompted the governor to make changes to the legislation guaranteeing there could be no discrimination based on sexual orientation. Other states took note of what was happening in Indiana and shied away from similar legislation. As a Canadian viewing what was happening across the border, I wondered if a similar drama might play out here.

Admittedly, there are significant differences between the socio-political landscapes of our countries. If conservative Indiana had a difficult time pushing RFRA through, one can imagine that such an act would likely never see the light of day in Canada, with our various levels of legislation and human rights protection. However, I am less concerned with the possibility of such an act becoming law in Canada than I am with the attitudes that influence the drive for such measures.

I also know that Canadian Christian culture, especially evangelicalism, is significantly shaped by what happens with our neighbours to the south. Whether or not the church has been influenced by the happenings in the United States, there have been recent rumblings within the Canadian evangelical community that echo the concerns of some of Indiana’s Christians.

Recently, a group of Canadian Christian leaders sent out a distress signal on Parliament Hill to say they felt their faith was being attacked. They cited a recent commitment by 72 Canadian companies to promote inclusion and diversity as an example. While it seems unfathomable that Christians would moan about companies pledging not to discriminate against the LGBT+ community, one cannot help but wonder if pushing these panic buttons emboldens other Christians to practise discrimination. While the legislation was debated in Indiana, there was a report from Manitoba that a lesbian couple had been denied a daycare spot because of their sexual orientation. The trend toward more LGBT+ discrimination should be very concerning for the church.

Discrimination based on sexual orientation is not only illegal in our country; it flies in the face of the most basic biblical principles of love and acceptance. Scripture exhorts us to not only love our neighbours as ourselves (see Luke 10:27, Galatians 5:14), but to not show partiality to one group of people over another (see Acts 10:34, James 2:2-4). While I don’t doubt that many Christians are sincere about their beliefs, we need to balance our concerns with the impact that our moral

Discrimination flies in the face of the most basic biblical principles of love and acceptance choices have upon other people. A Christian baker or daycare owner may not be comfortable providing a service to a gay couple because they see this as a compromise of their beliefs.

But can we be comfortable with the real pain this discrimination causes, no matter what the religious motivation may be?

Are we comfortable compromising our commitment to love unconditionally and uphold the dignity of others?

Rationally speaking, even if one believes gay marriage is sinful, does selling a wedding cake really make one complicit in sin? If you believe that it does, then I have to wonder—what about all of the other weddings that take place in which the participants may be seen to be outside of God’s will? Should Christian business people also refuse to provide services to divorced people? What about Scientologists? It is a proverbial can of worms that we have neither the capacity, nor the right, to involve ourselves in. And since we rarely discriminate based on these other factors, I cannot help but wonder if evangelical discrimination against the gay community reveals a unique contempt that we are loathe to acknowledge. Can we consider that for a moment?

The common reply from Christians, when told that they cannot discriminate, is that somehow the system is discriminating against them. But it is not discrimination if the preservation of a basic human right is expected of all people. It is disingenuous for us to ask for our religious freedom to be upheld while we deny the basic rights of those around us.

Major Juan Burry is the executive director of Rotary Hospice House in Richmond, B.C.

TIES THAT BIND

Graduation Day

How to help our children choose a career that fits

BY MAJOR KATHIE CHIU

Photo: © iStock.com/fotosipsak

A

s I walked through the mall recently, I noticed fancy dresses on display and groups of girls laughing as they went from store to store, shopping for just the right outfit.

Boys, looking more uncomfortable, were searching for a stylish suit and tie. Yes, high school graduation time is upon us.

Our 17-year-old son will graduate next year. Wasn’t it just the other day he was choosing his courses for Grade 11? Should he do a second language in case he wants to go to university? What math courses does he need to take? How high do his marks need to be to get into university?

Fortunately, he has a good idea of what he wants to do after high school.

It suits who he is and what he enjoys doing. However, there’s always the question of what comes after that. Choosing the right career path is a daunting task these days. With a difficult economy and the cost of living, the pressure is on to make the right choice. Are there any jobs in teaching? Just how useful is a tech degree? Can you make enough money in environmental science?

How can we help guide our children through the maze of job choices out there?

From the day they are born, we watch our kids’ unique personalities and abilities develop, as they become the people God designed them to be.

As caretakers of these awesome beings, we have the privilege of helping them discover just who they are. One of the first questions in helping them choose a career is, what do they enjoy doing?

Perhaps they work well with their hands and love to build things. Perhaps they love details and order. Or it could be they love working with people. Maybe they are great with words and want to be a writer. However, there are even deeper questions to answer first: Who are they?

What are their values? What brings life to their souls?

Unfortunately, too many people, including Christians, can’t answer these questions. And if they do know who

they are, they hide it from the world out of fear. They put on masks, which become their false selves. It’s this fear that pushes our young people into things that aren’t a right fit for them. It is the world calling them to fit in, to choose what will bring financial rewards and a successful career.

Whatever their particular bent, it’s important to challenge our kids to consider what God might want them to do with their lives. That’s not an easy thing to do. They might look at us as if we had horns growing out of our heads, or, at the very least, we’ll get the eye roll. But the concept that God has made us unique and has a purpose and plan for our lives is more important than doing something we enjoy. It’s also more important than how much money a job pays.

The Bible tells us how to discern God’s will for us. Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you can

figure out what God’s will is—what is good and pleasing and mature” (CEB).

It’s hard to live this way—the kingdom way. The upside-down, countercultural way Jesus spoke about. I know I’m not the best at it. I sometimes wonder how I can ever hope to be a good example. Can you imagine how much more difficult it is for our teenagers?

The world will pressure our kids to conform, to buy into the predominant culture, to choose a career according to the values of the world. But there is so much more for them. So encourage your children to use their gifts and talents in a way that allows them to live out kingdom values—love, humility, justice and forgiveness. It won’t even matter what they choose, as long as it honours the values and the Spirit that lives within them. That is when they’ll find their true path.

Major Kathie Chiu is the corps officer at Richmond Community Church, B.C. Salvationist • June 2015 • 29

SALVATION STORIES

Welcoming the Stranger

As immigrant and refugee services program co-ordinator at Montreal Citadel, I have a passion for helping newcomers

BY LOUISE FERNANDEZ

F

or as long as I can remember, I always felt like an outsider, even in my own French-Canadian, Catholic family. I had doubts about who my real father was. At school, my physical appearance—red hair, freckles, “Coke-bottle” glasses, awkward tallness—didn’t help and I was bullied.

I had no friends and no other escape but the neighbourhood library, where I read about other countries to escape my miserable world.

When I started at a new high school, I hoped things would be different. But on the first day, at lunchtime in the cafeteria, people at one table after another said “not here” as I looked for a seat. I felt horrible and worthless, as if I had a disease.

There was only one table left, at the back of the cafeteria, where the “rejects” sat. I learned they were young immigrants—refugees from Vietnam, Lebanon, Guatemala and Haiti. Not only did they let me sit with them, they were glad that a Quebecois was willing to be seen in their company. They welcomed me. Finally, I belonged.

My new friends were very generous and gentle with me. They thought my red hair and freckles were cute and they were curious about the food I brought for lunch. They often asked for my help with their homework and made me feel important and intelligent.

I was just as fascinated by them, by our differences, in skin colour, language, culture and food, but also by our similarities, in simply being human— sharing laughter and tears. The fact that they were born in another country intrigued me and I wanted to know their stories. I was often invited to their homes, Louise Fernandez and her husband, Jesus, meet General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox at the territorial congress in 2014 30 • June 2015 • Salvationist

and their parents made me feel like a member of the family. They were happy to see their children adapting to a new country and making friends. I admired the courage they showed in making sacrifices for their children—their stories were like a movie to me.

As I laughed with my friends, helping them practise French and trying to learn words in their mother tongues, I discovered I had a gift for languages.

So after high school and CEGEP (a university preparation course in Quebec), I studied translation at university.

A few years later, I met a young Cuban whose future in Canada was uncertain. We fell in love, got married and lived through the ordeal of immigration bureaucracy for seven years—the fear of living without official papers, the frustration of doors closing one after another, the impossibility of long-term planning—until he was finally allowed to stay in Canada for good.

By then fluent in six languages, I started working for a non-governmental organization that specialized in immigration and refugee issues. I learned how to advocate for others as we lived through the same experience ourselves.

In 2002, through The Salvation Army,

I became a Christian and decided to work for this extraordinary international organization. I have been the immigrant and refugee services program co-ordinator for Montreal Citadel since 2008.

It is more than a job; it is a vocation, a calling. If I meet a stranger or hear an accent, I can’t help myself—I say hello, offer help, invite them to church, tell them about Jesus.

Throughout the Old Testament, we see God’s care for the stranger. “When foreigners reside among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigners residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt” (Leviticus 19:33-34). In the New Testament, we see Jesus living as a refugee in Egypt with his parents, and later, as an adult, having “no place to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20). God knows the hearts of immigrants and refugees. He knows their hopes and fears, their loneliness and need to belong. Jesus said, “I was a stranger and you invited me in” (Matthew 25:35).

Throughout my life, I witnessed and lived what it is like to be a stranger and to receive welcome—and now it is my passion to welcome others.

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