Salvationist November 2018

Brave New World: Territory Welcomes New Dangers of Gene Editing Chief Secretary and TSWM

Messengers of the Kingdom Ready for Training

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

November 2018

Journey of Reconciliation Continues

Salvationist.ca

Indigenous traditions celebrated at second annual Salvation Army pow wow

WHEN THE WORLD O P E N CLOSES ITS EYES, THEM.

BOOTHUC.CA

ED UC ATI ON FOR A BETTER WO RLD

CONTENTS

Salvationist November 2018 • Volume 13, Number 11

Departments

12

5 Inbox 6 Frontlines 21 Fresh Ideas Happy Meals

by Jordan Thompson

Get more online Visit Salvationist.ca to add your comments and read web-exclusive articles

22 Not Called?

Saying Yes to God

by Ken Ramstead

@salvationistmagazine Follow us on Instagram for the latest and best Army photos. Tag your photos #salvationists

23 Live Justly Equality vs. Equity

by Major Juan Burry

25 Ethically Speaking Humanity 2.0

by Aimee Patterson

26 Cross Culture 27 People & Places 30 Salvation Stories Something Good

by Julia Desormeaux

Columns 4 Editorial Milestones

by Geoff Moulton

25 Grace Notes Fear Not

by Lieutenant Erin Metcalf

30

Features 9 Meet the Hills Introducing the new chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries.

Interview by Geoff Moulton

12 Territory Welcomes Messengers of the Kingdom Fifteen new cadets enter College for Officer Training in Winnipeg.

by Geoff Moulton

14 Who We Are

/salvationistmagazine Like us on Facebook for photos and updates.

Interact with our community of 35,000+ fans @Salvationist Follow us on Twitter for the Army’s breaking news. Use hashtag #SalvationArmy for your own updates and photos Cover photo: Giselle Randall

The Salvation Army builds relationship with Indigenous community through celebration.

by Giselle Randall

Read and share it!

17 Super Saturday

Faith&Friends

Gifts of Hope gives children in Argentina the chance to play.

by Ruth Hobbis

Internet Adventure

WRECK-IT RALPH P.5

Life-Changing Encounter

PARADE OF FAITH P.12

Wartime Letters

ARMY AID P.22

I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G

faithandfriends.ca

NOVEMBER 2018

18 Resurrection Journey After years of hurt, I thought I was done with the church.

Then God broke through to me.

by Lieutenant Rick Apperson

20 Guardian Angels Christmas partnership supports Penticton Salvation Army all year.

by Kristin Ostensen

Onward, Christian Soldier

LT.-COL. JEFF SPITZIG WEARS HIS FAITH AS PROUDLY AS HIS CANADIAN FORCES UNIFORM. P.16

Salvationist November 2018 3

EDITORIAL

Milestones

A

nyone who has run a marathon knows that it’s a mental battle, as much as a physical one. Covering the 42.2 kilometres takes a combination of training and will power.

No one just decides to enter a marathon, lace up their sneakers and start running.

As a runner myself, I know what it’s like to “hit the wall”—that moment midrace when your body shuts down and you feel like you can’t take another step.

When that happens, it often helps to play mental tricks to get to the next level: •• One trick is focusing on a simple word or phrase that you can repeat when times get tough: “Just make it over this next hill”; “Each step is a step closer”; “Finish strong.”

•• Sometimes you can distract yourself from the excruciating pain of those last few kilometres by counting telephone poles, singing a song in your head or planning a grocery list.

•• Lastly, it helps to “check in” with yourself at each stage of the race to ask, “How am I feeling? Am I relaxed or overexerting myself? Am I hitting my stride?”

It makes me wonder: How often do we think about milestones on our spiritual journey? What kind of targets do we set for ourselves in terms of prayer, Bible

Salvationist

is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Brian Peddle General Commissioner Susan McMillan Territorial Commander Lt-Colonel John P. Murray Secretary for Communications Geoff Moulton Editor-in-Chief and Literary Secretary Giselle Randall Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Copy Editor and Production Co-ordinator (416-422-6112) Kristin Ostensen Associate Editor and Staff Writer 4 November 2018 Salvationist

study and service? Are we “straining toward the prize” (see Philippians 3:14) as we run the race of life?

In this issue of Salvationist, you’ll meet people who have been on a spiritual journey. Most would admit it’s more like a marathon than a sprint. In our cover story, we chronicle the ongoing journey to reconciliation and healing with the Indigenous community. This initiative began last year in Pine Lake, Alta., with the first-ever pow wow held by a church denomination in North America.

You’ll also meet Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill, our new chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries, officers from the U.S.A. Western Territory, who have served most recently in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar.

For the Hills, this is the next milestone on their journey, and we welcome their leadership.

Lastly, we celebrate the Messengers of the Kingdom Session, the territory’s newest cadets, who have begun the training for officership. As training principal Major Andrew Morgan notes, the training college experience is about undergirding them with the necessary spiritual formation to prepare them for ministry.

Those who run marathons

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, New International Version (NIV) © 2011.

All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory and can be reprinted only with written permission.

always have moments of doubt, but it isn’t long after the euphoria of the finish line when they start thinking about the next race. Where are you at in your spiritual training? Are you in a painful leg of the journey? If so, keep your eyes focused on God. He is cheering you toward the finish line—and preparing you for your next race.

GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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Mission

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Salvationist informs readers about the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. salvationist.ca facebook.com/salvationistmagazine twitter.com/salvationist youtube.com/salvationistmagazine instagram.com/salvationistmagazine

Encouraging Testimony Thank you for the article about Lieutenants Lance and Monika Gillard (“Walking on Water,” August 2018). What a powerful and encouraging story of God’s love and support.

May God bless you both as you continue to spread God’s Word and show his love in our community.

Shirley Leiper

Lts Lance and Monika Gillard have been COs at Sussex CC, N.B., since June 2017.

“We love this town,” says Lt Monika Gillard

Photo: Kristin Ostensen

INBOX

Walking on Water

Despair drove Lieutenants Lance and Monika Gillard to leave officership. God’s relentless love brought them back.

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

C

alled. Equipped for sacred service.

Where there was certainty two years earlier, when those words were spoken over Lieutenants Lance and Monika Gillard as they were commissioned in 2012, there was now doubt. They had left everything to become Salvation Army officers, believing they were called by God. But as challenges in their first appointment overwhelmed them, the Gillards couldn’t help but wonder: Are we actually called, or did we get it wrong?

“When I think of that time in our lives, I always go back to the story of when Peter walked on water,” says Lance.

“He sees Jesus walking toward him and says, ‘I can do that.’ He steps out of the boat and starts walking. But then he sees the wind and the waves. He loses his focus on Jesus and he starts to sink.

“That’s what was happening to

Monika and me. The storm was all around us, and we couldn’t see anything else. We were sinking.”

Action and Service For Lance and Monika, who are now corps officers at Sussex Community Church, N.B., the storm has long passed.

Though they left officership during that time of despair, they returned with a firm conviction that this was God’s will for their lives.

“We are loved by a relentless God,” Lance says with a smile. “When he has a calling, when he has a purpose for your life, he doesn’t let you go.”

Before they were Salvation Army officers, Monika and Lance were members of the Canadian Armed Forces, serving in the Navy. They met in 2000 while stationed in Victoria on the HCMS Algonquin. Both grew up in Christian homes, but were not connected to any

church when they met. After they married in 2002, Lance wanted to bring his young son to church, so they decided to try The Salvation Army.

“I was dedicated at the Army in Englee, N.L., and I went to youth group and other events they had there,” Lance says. “I remembered The Salvation Army being lively, fun and upbeat.”

From the beginning, Victoria Citadel was the right church for them.

“Being in the military, I liked structure, routine, orders and regulations, the uniform—so I had a natural connection to the Army,” Lance says. “I grew up seeing Christianity talked about and modelled at home, but we rarely did anything beyond that and I always thought that there had to be something more.

In the Army, there was a call to action and service.”

“It made sense to us,” Monika agrees.

“The mission of The Salvation Army

20 August 2018 Salvationist

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

A Bad Name Has the word “evangelical” become an embarrassment?

BY JAMES READ

T

he International Headquarters (IHQ) website tells the world that The Salvation Army is “an evangelical part of the universal Christian church.” That has been part of the identity statement since 1994, so it’s not new. But in the past year or so, I’ve wondered whether it’s a label we should be proud to wear.

That’s because “Evangelical” (with a capital E) seems to have taken on a new life and received a lot more attention in the media since the election of U.S. President Donald Trump in 2016.

Reliable polls report that more than 80 per cent of white American Evangelicals voted for him. That’s a huge bloc of supporters.

In the United States, “Evangelical” is now treated as a political word. One pastor said, “[Evangelical] is now a tribal, rather than a creedal, description.” He and several other pastors will no longer describe themselves as “Evangelical.”

Last year, the campus organization Princeton Evangelical Fellowship—a name it had held since 1937—changed its name to Princeton Christian Fellowship.

And we are told that African-American Christians cringe because of the racial overtones of the word “Evangelical.”

It may be different elsewhere in the world. When I chaired the social action commission for the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC), Brian Stiller, EFC’s president, told me he frequently had to explain to the Toronto Star and other Canadian media that, in Canada, “Evangelical” was not synonymous with the “Christian Right” as it was in the United States. Fast-forward 20 years and Stiller is still explaining

to Christianity Today’s readers that “Evangelical” is not a term owned by the United States, and that whatever their internal angst may be, 600 million people elsewhere in the world are happy to own the term as a description of their faith commitments.

Those commitments were identified

by David Bebbington in his research of the history of religion in Britain from the 1730s to the 1980s (a period that includes John Wesley, William and Catherine Booth, and John Stott). Bebbington claimed history shows that four features could be used to describe “evangelicals”: 1. A high view of the Bible’s authority; 2. An emphasis on the need for a personal, saving relationship with God; 3. A focus on Jesus’ sacrificial death; and 4. An activist faith that pursues personal sanctification and the improvement of society.

By those criteria, Salvationists should be OK with being called evangelicals.

Bebbington’s four features fit.

1. We affirm that if there is a divine rule about faith or life, it will be found only in the Bible; other sources give knowledge but not divine rules.

2. Salvationists place an emphasis on personal faith in Christ. Belief, not a ceremony, makes someone a Christian.

3. From the beginning, The Salvation Army has said that Jesus alone is God-incarnate and that he suffered death in order to free all people from sin.

4. Activism is the Salvationist’s middle name. The heartbeat of the Salvationist is transformed people

24 August 2018 Salvationist

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What’s in a Name?

Although James Read’s article laments the negative implications of the term Evangelical, it is unfortunately more of an attack on Trump than anything else (“A Bad Name,” August 2018). Read alleges the term has become an embarrassment due to the media connections with Trump, and cites the high percentage of “white evangelical voters” as confirmation of the affiliation. But

ACROSS AN OCEAN AND A

CONTINENT The Salvation Army as a Canadian Immigration Agency 1904–1932

R.G. MOYLES FOREWORD JOHN LARSSON

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in a transformed society.

As William Booth put it, “We are a salvation people—this is our speciality—getting saved and keeping saved, and then getting somebody else saved, and then getting saved ourselves more and more until full salvation on earth makes the heaven within, which is finally perfected by the full salvation without, on the other side of the river.”

Despite the fact that The Salvation Army fits Bebbington’s description, I still have a problem embracing the term for myself. Part of that is because I can’t understand how “Evangelicals” could overwhelmingly vote for a man who is proudly not Christlike.

But even if I ignore what’s happening in the United States right now, I rankle at the fact that “evangelical” is often used like a kind of membership card— one that is meant to exclude as much as include. If saying “I’m an evangelical Christian” is a way of looking down my nose—of implying that Catholics and Orthodox and members of the United Church couldn’t be real Christians—I don’t want the adjective. The Apostle Paul said, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:31). Any person or denomination that wants to boast about being “evangelical” should take note.

In the end, the question for me—and it’s a big one—is not whether a term can be salvaged, but whether people can discover through us that the gospel really is “good news.” That is, after all, what the Greek word “evangelion” means.

Dr. James Read is the director of The Salvation Army Ethics Centre in Winnipeg.

Evangelicals did not really do anything out of the norm. They have had a long history of asserting their values through less than perfect surrogates within the American political system.

If the question is whether “evangelical” can be reclaimed, the answer lies somewhere in the reason for why it was lost in the first place. As Salvationists we must recapture the essence of Evangelicalism by lifting up the revelation of Scripture as people of “one book,” as Wesley stated (i.e., all influences and sources are measured through Scripture; by being people who proclaim the transformative power of the gospel through both the spoken word and the life of faith; by being people who live and lead through a focus on the historical person and work of Jesus Christ that can transform others and the culture in which we live). When we live this out faithfully, unashamedly and intentionally, the name Evangelical will be restored to its place in culture, but I am sure it will be—in this cultural context—no less pejorative.

Rob DeGeorge To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include your name and address, and a phone number or email address where you can be contacted. Letters may be edited for space and clarity, and may be published in any medium.

Brass bands, Christmas kettles, thrift stores—these are what most Canadians commonly associate with The Salvation Army. Few know, however, that between 1904 and 1932, the Army was an official immigration agency, approved and financially sponsored by Canada’s Department of Immigration. During that time, the organization brought to Canada approximately 111,000 British settlers, most of them juvenile male farm helpers and young female domestics.

Across an Ocean and a Continent is an account of the Army’s immigration work that includes reports of trips across the Atlantic and Canada in its chartered ships and trains, its dealings with Canada’s Department of Immigration, and the public’s perception and reception of its efforts.

“R.G. Moyles knows how to make historical data come alive through striking facts and gripping first-hand accounts.”

—General John Larsson (Rtd) Visit store.salvationarmy.ca to order your copy.

Also available in Kindle through Amazon.ca.

Salvationist November 2018 5

FRONTLINES

Photos: Dave Wilson

Musical and Spiritual Growth at Territorial Music School

A massed chorus of 175 students and faculty sing All Creatures of Our God and King at the final program

T

he majestic sounds of All Creatures of Our God and King rang out at Scarborough Citadel in Toronto, as the massed voices of Canada and Bermuda’s Territorial Music School (TMS) kicked off the final program of the weeklong camp, which concluded on September 1.

The students and faculty, along with participants in the third annual Leadership Development Institute, which runs parallel with the TMS, hailed from every division across the territory. The camp also attracted international attendees representing France, Argentina, Hong Kong and Japan.

Guests for this year’s TMS, held at Jackson’s Point, Ont., provided musical and spiritual inspiration. Paul Sharman (deputy bandmaster, Regent Hall Corps, London, England; music ministries unit, THQ, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) led the music program. Sharman brought his wealth of experience as a composer—with more than 50 brass and choral works published in Salvation Army journals—conductor and cornet soloist. Sharman’s work with the A Band on two of his larger works, Purpose and Quest, was a musical highlight of TMS for many.

For the third consecutive year, Chris Stoker (spiritual formation director, U.S.A. Eastern Territory) led the Bible program, using his unique blend of humour and theological understanding to help TMS attendees see Scripture in fresh ways. Focusing on the life of Moses, Stoker walked the students through God’s calling, obedience and blessing.

6 November 2018 Salvationist

“The ability of our guests to communicate well to this current generation of students is essential, and we know that our young people have returned home to their corps refreshed, challenged and renewed,” says Craig Lewis, territorial secretary for music and gospel arts.

Working alongside Sharman, music leaders from around the territory facilitated the TMS’s three streams—brass band, women’s chorus and worship team.

Bandmasters Andrew Burditt (Oshawa Temple, Ont.), Captain Nicholas Samuel (corps officer, London Citadel, Ont.) and Marcus Venables (Toronto’s North York Temple; territorial music and gospel arts department) each led a band and contributed the numbers Kerygma, Boundless Kingdom and Of Great Wonder to the final program.

Susan Kroeker (Calgary’s Glenmore Temple) and Heather Osmond (Toronto’s

Cedarbrae Community Church; territorial music and gospel arts department) conducted the women’s chorus in selections that included Lift Up Your Voice and Where’er You Go. Osmond also directed the A Chorus in Just a Closer Walk with Thee and Festival Gloria, which both entertained and blessed the audience at the final program.

The worship team stream, which has grown in popularity in recent years, was guided by Lori and Dave Wilson (Richmond Hill Community Church, Ont.) and Stacey and Buhle Dlamini (Westville Corps, N.S.). Participants in this stream had the congregation on their feet worshipping enthusiastically at Scarborough Citadel.

The final program and the 49th consecutive year of TMS finished with the combined voices of 175 students and faculty singing Peace Be With You.

Peyton Slous sings at the midweek program

The band led by Cpt Nicholas Samuel in rehearsal

FRONTLINES

Salvation Army Now Present in 131 Countries

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he Salvation Army officially opened work in two countries in August, bringing the total number of countries in which the Army is active to 131.

Celebrations to mark the official opening of The Salvation Army in Burkina Faso were led by Commissioner Benjamin Mnyampi, international secretary for Africa, and Commissioner Grace Mnyampi, zonal secretary for

women’s ministries, in the capital city, Ouagadougou.

Various activities took place during the weekend of celebrations, including rallies for men and women, a youth concert and a march of witness. Hundreds then gathered at Ouagadougou Corps to celebrate the official commencement of Salvation Army ministry in Burkina Faso. Prayers of dedication for the new ministry were offered and 28

Salvationists in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, engage in a march of witness to celebrate the official opening of Salvation Army work in that country

T

new Burkinabé recruits were enrolled as soldiers.

The Salvation Army also officially inaugurated its activities in Samoa, where ministry has been developing since 2017 when the prime minister, Tuila’epa Sa’illele Malielegaoi, expressed an interest in having The Salvation Army begin work on the islands, citing drug and alcohol dependency as key issues he felt the Army could address.

Plans were soon put in place to establish a corps and an addiction treatment centre. Violence against women and children was another key area that was suggested as a focus for the Army’s ministry.

Sunday meetings have been taking place since May 2018, and employees involved in the addictions program began work in June.

Prime Minister Malielegaoi gave a speech at the opening celebrations in August, saying, “I wish The Salvation Army the best in its operation in Samoa.

Let us continue to yield to God, to equip us as soldiers of his everlasting kingdom, and to lead us according to the abundance of his grace.”

60 Years of Ministry at Pine Lake Camp

he Salvation Army’s Pine Lake Camp celebrated its 60th anniversary in August. To mark the occasion, the summer camp, located near Red Deer, Alta., was open to the public with many current and former officers, camp staff and campers from Pine Lake’s 60-year history attending the festivities.

Guests were treated to tours of the facilities and live music by the big band Jazz Explosion. There were speeches and presentations by Major Margaret McLeod, divisional commander, Alberta and Northern Territories Division, who is herself a former Pine Lake Camp staff member, as well as Ruby Olmstead, a member of the family that sold the land to the camp, and Adel Poratto, vice-president of the Rotary Club of Red Deer. Greetings were offered by former and current camp counsellors Bob McLeod and Taylor Castelli, and the ceremony concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving by Captain Ian Gillingham, divisional youth secretary, Alberta and Northern Territories Division.

A time capsule ceremony was held after the speeches.

Though the original time capsule from 1958 couldn’t be found, the new time capsule will carry on the legacy of the camp when it is unearthed at the next milestone anniversary.

Every summer, Pine Lake welcomes more than 600 children who enjoy various camping activities and hear the message of the gospel. “The overwhelming desire of those attending this

event was that the ministry of Pine Lake Camp will continue to bear fruit for God’s kingdom for the next 60 years,” concludes Major Al Hoeft, divisional secretary for public relations and development, Alberta and Northern Territories Division.

Bob McLeod, Cpt Ian Gillingham, Ruby Olmstead, Mjr Margaret McLeod, Taylor Castelli and Adel Poratto participate in the time capsule ceremony

Salvationist November 2018 7

FRONTLINES

T

Summer Outreach Helps Lindsay Children

his summer, The Salvation Army in Lindsay, Ont., launched a new partnership with Kawartha Lakes Food Source to create an outreach lunch program for children in need. Twice a week throughout the months of July and August, children were invited to enjoy a delicious lunch. These meals were held at local schools and served between six and 25 children each day.

“It was brought to our attention that some students in Lindsay get anxious and sad during summer months about not having enough to eat, especially without school lunch programs in place,” says Aisha Malik, chairperson for the Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition’s Food Security Working Group.

Although most schools in the community offer breakfast or lunch programs during the academic year, they stop during the summer months to the detriment of many low-income families who depend on those meals. “Lindsay has high rental prices and limited employment,” explains Janet Rodin, community ministries coordinator for The Salvation Army in Lindsay. “After expenses, a lot of families have little room left in their budget for food.”

In Lindsay, where 20 per cent of children are from low-income families, summer lunch programs are important as they ensure that no child goes hungry during the holidays. “Through this program, we wanted to make sure that children were able to get something nutritious during the summer months,” Rodin adds. “This program ensured that they received a healthy meal at least twice a week.”

Nutritious lunches are prepared by volunteers at Lindsay CC

8 November 2018 Salvationist

Hygiene Vending Machine in Sherbrooke

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he Salvation Army in Sherbrooke, Que., is now offering homeless persons better access to hygiene products, thanks to a unique idea: a vending machine. Called the Sharing Box, the machine dispenses shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap and feminine hygiene products to people in need, free of charge.

This pilot project is the result of a partnership between the Army, Sondès Allal of the Community Economic Development Corporation of Sherbrooke, and Patrick Rahimaly, owner of the Uniprix Chemika Mamode pharmacy, which is supplying the machine with various hygiene products.

“Our pharmacy has always been involved in the community, so when Sondès proposed the project, it seemed natural to us to contribute,” says Rahimaly.

An anonymous donor paid for the vending machine itself, while Martin Lambert from Café les Frères Lambert offered his expertise to adapt the machine to the needs of the project. Rather than accepting money, the machine takes special tokens that are distributed to homeless persons through four downtown helping agencies, as well as the Army.

“Thanks to the Sharing Box, more than 90 people who are experiencing homelessness will have access to three products per month,” says Allal.

According to Captain Ricaurte Velasquez, corps officer, Église communautaire de Sherbrooke, more than 30 people accessed the Sharing Box in the first month.

“The Army’s mission is to serve the marginalized,” says Captain Velasquez.

“Our location in Sherbrooke is surrounded by homeless people and people in need. Through this program, we are seeing people in the poorest situations acquire free items that will help them.”

This vending machine is the second of its kind in the world and the first in North America. Plans are already underway to install two additional machines in other areas of the city in partnership with the Rotary Club.

Meet the Hills

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Introducing the new chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries.

his month, the Canada and Bermuda Territory welcomes Colonels Edward (“Dusty”) and Shelley Hill as chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries respectively.

Geoff Moulton, editor-in-chief, interviewed the Hills to find out what they are passionate about, what life is like on the other side of the Army world and what they most look forward to in their new appointments.

First, I have to ask … where did you get the nickname “Dusty”?

EH: The story goes that when I was a small child and came in from playing outside, I was covered in dirt and mud.

“Dusty” was the nickname my parents started to call me, because I was just that kind of child. My brother and my sisters all had nicknames, too, but they shed those. I carried it through my life, and I continue to be known primarily as Dusty, at least in the U.S.A. Western Territory.

Most recently, you were appointed as chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries for the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory. What is it like serving in a different culture?

EH: That was a fascinating territory in which to serve, because there are such wide differences economically, politically and culturally, coupled with poorer countries. It’s the first experience we’ve had serving in a culture where Christianity is not the dominant religion.

In Singapore, there’s a wide distribution of religion, but Malaysia is 90 per cent Muslim, and Thailand and Myanmar are 90 per cent Buddhist. And yet, the Army is still functioning well in those countries. It’s exciting to see Army ministry flourish in spite of the difficult economic and cultural circumstances.

Canadian officers Captains Leonard Heng and Peck Ee Wong

Colonels Shelley and Edward Hill

as well as Major Mark Hall are serving in that territory. Did you cross paths with them?

EH: Mark is actually the corps officer at the corps where we soldiered. And Peck Ee and Leonard are the corps officers of the Bishan Chinese Corps, which meets at territorial headquarters. We’ve gotten to know all three of them, and if they’re typical of Canadian officers, the Canada and Bermuda Territory is in fine shape.

They’re all hard-working and dedicated, and I’m going to miss them.

What lessons have you learned in your travels around the Army world?

EH: When you’re working in cultures that are different, you need to be sensitive to differences and try to listen and learn as much as you can before you project your own thoughts and ideas.

Sometimes, when we come from a developed country like the United States or Canada, we feel like we’ve got it all figured out. But when we listen, we often realize that there are many different ways to do things that may be more effective.

What are the priorities for you as you take up your new appointments?

EH: I want to learn as much as I can, as fast as I can, about what’s going on, so I Salvationist November 2018 9

was a prayer warrior and she was very dedicated at the corps, always involved in leadership through corps cadets and Sunday school. She worked at the ARC and the veteran’s hospital well into retirement. My father was corps sergeantmajor at my home corps for more than 35 years. So they set a good example of faithful service.

EH: My parents are retired officers after 45 years of active service. They are in their late 80s, but still involved in corps and the ARC ministry in Portland, Oregon. They always set a good example, were affirming of others and enjoyed being officers. We appreciate all that they’ve done to help shape us into the people that we are.

Colonels Hill with their children Stephanie, Samantha and Samuel

can make a contribution. I want to be a good example in my leadership and as a soldier in my corps. We look forward to working with the territorial commander, Commissioner Susan McMillan, a very capable leader, and meeting the rest of the headquarters team.

SH: One of the priorities in my role as the territorial secretary for women’s ministries is to get to know women in the territory. I want to learn and experience what they’re doing in ministry as they love and serve the women in their corps and community.

there for 10 years before we became the corps officers. It’s the kind of corps that sets a good example: it’s soldier-led; there is a good blend between traditional and contemporary ministries; it has strengthened the social services connections with its local adult rehabilitation centre (ARC). My hope for every corps is that they would figure out how to best meet the holistic needs of the entire community. The Army must be constantly looking for ways to reach out and open doors to more and more people, and create entry points into the Army.

Early in your officership, you were corps officers at Pasadena Tabernacle in California. Can you talk about your time there and the importance of front-line ministry in the Army?

EH: Serving at Pasadena Tabernacle was transformational for us. We were soldiers

Your parents have been strongly involved in The Salvation Army.

What do you admire most about them?

SH: Both my parents were stalwart Salvationists. I remember them doing devotions and praying every morning at the dining room table. My mother

At the Myanmar Phyu children’s home

10 November 2018 Salvationist

You have three adult children of your own.

SH: Our oldest, Stephanie, is 29, a preschool teacher who lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Our middle child, Samantha, is 22, and in her last year at university, majoring in human services. Our youngest, Samuel, is 20, and majoring in English. Of course, they are excited about us moving back to North America.

Dusty, you were a founding member of the U.S.A. Western Staff Band and executive officer of the U.S.A. Western Staff Songsters. What does music ministry mean to you and for the Army?

EH: It is an important dimension of our worship experience in the Army corporately, and has been for me personally as well. It was those connection points that kept me involved in the Army at a

Colonels Hill at the Hawaii Kroc Center dedication as divisional leaders

time when it would have been easy for me to stray. To me, music ministry is a great way to reach out and involve new people in our corps.

I also think it’s one of the great ways to get different generations involved. I remember when my kids were in the band as teenagers and sitting next to a man in his late 80s who was a great example to them. They thought that was pretty terrific. You don’t see that in many ministry scenarios, but you do see it in Salvation Army music-making.

We could use more emphasis on music, if it’s done in the right way.

Shelley, you graduated from the Arrow Leadership Program held in Vancouver two years ago. What did that experience teach you?

SH: It changed my life and made me a better leader. It stretched me to step out in faith and do some things that I had not done before. I love the motto of the Arrow Program: “To be led more

by Jesus, to lead more like Jesus, to lead others to Jesus.” I keep in contact with many of my colleagues from the program, and we’ve been able to compare notes and find strength in sharing the journey.

Describe a moment in ministry where you thought to yourself, “This is what The Salvation Army is all about.”

EH: This year, I went to Northern Myanmar, an isolated region of that country, to visit a Salvation Army clinic.

Many of the rivers become swollen in the rainy season, cutting the area off from the main city a few miles away. That clinic is the only medical service that’s available for villages in that area. As we were sitting in her one-room medical clinic, I asked the nurse, “Have you ever delivered a baby?” And she said, matterof-factly, “I’ve delivered 184 babies since 2003.” I was dumbfounded at the impact that she’s had on so many lives by providing critical medical service in such difficult circumstances.

SH: I think of the feeding program ministries when we were at Pasadena, going to the parks on Saturday morning and giving the homeless a hot breakfast. Or the streets of Honolulu with Revolution Hawaii, our outreach program, serving sandwiches and bottled water, and sharing the love of Christ in a practical way. It’s the emphasis on “soup, soap and salvation” that William and Catherine

Booth pioneered. I love being the hands and feet of Jesus to others; it’s something that the Army does well.

Ministry can be busy, but what do you enjoy doing in your leisure time?

EH: When I’m home, I might take a walk or a run. I also like to fiddle around on musical instruments, though I’m not proficient on any of them. Lastly, I like to read and keep up on current events.

SH: I love to walk every morning, and get out and explore. I also love museums, art galleries and old movies that make me cry [laughs].

Is there a Scripture verse that God is using to speak to your hearts in these days?

SH: For me, it’s Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” That has spoken to me recently, and reminds me that we need to be God’s humble servants.

EH: I would share 2 Corinthians 12:9: “ … but he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ ” I’m a person who has limitations, and a lot of things that I

Colonel Edward Hill engages in ministry in Dallah, Myanmar

continually need God’s help in working through, but God’s promise is that his grace is sufficient. Even when we are imperfect and fall short, he can still use us for his honour and glory.

Ministry Highlights • Commissioned as Salvation Army officers in June 1993.

• First appointed as corps officers at the Leeward Corps, Oahu, Hawaii.

• Later served as divisional youth leaders for the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division.

• In 1998, went to the College for Officer Training where they served in various appointments, including Edward as the dean for the School of Continuing Education and Shelley as the assistant director for special services.

• In 2002, appointed as corps officers at Pasadena Tabernacle Corps.

• Served as divisional leaders in 2008 in the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands, including the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Guam and Saipan.

• Appointed to the U.S.A. Western Territory’s headquarters in July 2012, where Shelley served as the women’s ministry and resource secretary and the Fellowship of the Silver Star secretary and Edward as the secretary for program.

• In 2016, Edward became the chief secretary and Shelley the territorial secretary for women’s ministries for the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory.

• Edward and Shelley have associate of arts degrees in ministry from The Salvation Army School for Officer Training in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.

• Edward earned a master of divinity degree from Northwest Nazarene University, a master of arts degree in Christian education from Azusa Pacific University, and a bachelor of arts degree in history from California State University at Fullerton.

Salvationist November 2018 11

Territory Welcomes Messengers of the Kingdom Fifteen new cadets enter College for Officer Training in Winnipeg.

BY GEOFF MOULTON

12 November 2018 Salvationist

Cdt Alecia Barrow carries the Messengers of the Kingdom sessional flag and salutes Commissioner Susan McMillan

Photos: Carson Samson

O

n September 16, the Messengers of t he Kingdom Session (201820) were greeted with enthusiasm by hundreds who gathered for worship at Winnipeg’s Elim Chapel and around the Army world by livestream. Cadets marched in to the chapel waving flags as the congregation clapped along to an energetic march by the Heritage Park Temple Band.

The cadets will study at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) in Winnipeg for the next two years to be commissioned as Salvation Army officers.

Colonel Lee Graves, then chief secretary, welcomed the 15 new cadets, acknowledged the Messengers of Compassion Session (2017-19) and auxiliary-captains, and introduced Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander. He recounted how he and the territorial commander had visited with cadets earlier in the weekend to share encouraging words and Scripture and led Sunday morning’s family worship time at the training college.

In his opening prayer, Colonel Graves celebrated these men and women who have been “called to leave the familiar— their homes, their families and secular employment—to respond to God’s call.”

He noted that this year’s sessional name was a “fitting reminder that all who love Jesus have the responsibility to fulfil the Great Commission.”

Following vibrant worship by a musical team of first-year cadets, Major Andrew Morgan, training principal at the CFOT, presented the new session to the congregation. He expressed appreciation to “corps across the territory who have nurtured these good soldiers and released them to us for training.”

While he praised the cadets’ skills and abilities, he emphasized that the college intentionally puts spiritual formation of cadets first, so that their competencies are “established on a firm foundation of godly character.”

Cadets responded by singing the new sessional song, Such Is the Kingdom, composed by Major Len Ballantine. Set to a swinging jazz rhythm, the lyrics state: “There’s something hidden that’s gotta be told. A myst’ry that the world needs to know … Believe the Word of God, for such is the kingdom.”

Commissioner McMillan then introduced the sessional flag, noting the symbolism of the purity of God, blood of Jesus and fire of the Holy Spirit in its blue, red and yellow colours. “May these be hallmarks of the cadets’ training,” she added.

During a time of testimony, Cadet Brandon Keeping told of his struggles dealing with the “dirt, pain and suffering” of reality as a police officer.

When the stress of work caught up to him, he knew it was time to make a change. He and his wife, April, discovered through prayer, Bible study and the influence of Christian friends that God was calling them to officership.

Afterward, Cadet Kathryn Dueck spoke of how she conquered depression, anxiety and doubts about her calling.

“Satan had me convinced that I wouldn’t amount to anything … but God has called me out of things that I thought

were insurmountable. When you look at me wearing this cadet trim, I want you to think about the faithfulness of God.” Colonel Deborah Graves, then ter-

Mjr Andrew Morgan emphasizes a CFOT culture marked by honesty, integrity and accountability

ritorial secretary for women’s ministries and territorial integrated mission secretary, read from Matthew 13:24-54, which includes metaphors of the kingdom of God: a beautiful garden, a tiny mustard seed, wheat among the weeds and yeast that leavens bread.

Commissioner McMillan preached on the nature of the kingdom of God, urging Salvationists to keep active in the work of the kingdom, and allow their positive influence to bring life and hope to those around them. “The kingdom of God is you and me, living righteously in the world and pointing people to Christ,” she concluded.

Worship wrapped up with the strains of the worship chorus Build Your Kingdom Here and Major Shawn Critch, divisional commander, Prairie Division, pronounced the benediction, bringing an end to the welcome weekend.

Territorial leaders, CFOT staff, cadets and auxiliary-captains at the welcome meeting for the Messengers of the Kingdom

Commissioner Susan McMillan greets Cdts Brandon and April Keeping with their sons, Finley, Harrison and Theo

Donna Lee Samson, songster leader at Heritage Park Temple, leads the cadets in Such Is the Kingdom, sessional song of the Messengers of the Kingdom

Salvationist November 2018 13

Who We Are

The Salvation Army builds relationship with Indigenous community through celebration.

M

ore than 200 people from across Canada a nd t he Un ited States attended The Salvation Army’s second Celebration of Culture: A Journey of Reconciliation, held in partnership with Indigenous Pathways, at the Army’s Pine Lake Camp in Alberta from August 24-26.

The event was an expression of the Army’s desire to listen, learn and build relationships with Indigenous

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY GISELLE RANDALL people, in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #48.

“The history of many churches with Indigenous peoples has been one of oppression and colonization, and the impact of residential schools has been devastating,” says Major Shari Russell (Yellow Quill First Nation), territorial Indigenous ministries consultant.

“For many generations, we were taught that we had to put aside our

culture in order to accept Christ. But as we have learned about the gospel, we have discovered that we don’t need to leave behind our culture, that God has created us within culture.

“So this is a weekend where we can come and celebrate who we are as Indigenous people. We invite the community to join us as we share our gifts and strengths, our joys and challenges.

Together we dance, we sing, we feast.

We share our journeys.”

The weekend began with a welcome ceremony on Friday evening. Jacob Nyce (Nisga’a Nation) performs with the Four Crest Dancers, a group from Gitwinksihlkw, B.C., as they sing “Gitwinksihlkw Wil Bugum” (“Gitwinksihlkw is Who We Are”).

On Saturday morning, delegates chose from a variety of workshops, including the importance of language and an Indigenous interpretation of repentance. Dr. Terry LeBlanc (Mi’kmaq-Acadian), executive director of Indigenous Pathways, holds an eagle feather during his session, “Beyond the Culture Wars.”

14 November 2018 Salvationist

The main event of the weekend was a pow wow, a social gathering held by many different North American Indigenous communities, featuring dancing, singing, socializing and feasting together.

Damian Azak (Nisga’a Nation), corps leader, Gitwinksihlkw, B.C., carries the Army flag during the Grand Entry, which signals the official opening of the pow wow and calls for dancers to enter the arena.

Fawnda Bullshields (Kainai Nation), head dancer, performs a jingle dress dance.

Dr. Casey Church (Pokagon Band Potawatomi member from southwest Michigan), director of Wiconi International, shares a pipe ceremony.

LeBlanc and Church present Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, with a second eagle feather to add to The Salvation Army’s eagle staff, created for last year’s celebration by Salvationist Michelle Stoney (Gitxsan and Cree First Nations).

“That was a highlight for me,” says Commissioner McMillan. “They’re recognizing us for the efforts we’re making at reconciliation.”

“I would never have dreamed, even 20 years ago, that The Salvation Army would participate in a pow wow like this,” says LeBlanc. “This exceeds the expectations we might have had about what it would look like for a denomination or tradition of the church to participate in this kind of event.

I’m amazed and appreciative of what’s happening here.”

Salvationist November 2018 15

Throughout the weekend, delegates participated in several traditional Indigenous customs, such as praying together in a sweat lodge and raising a tipi. In Indigenous culture, the first three poles are associated with faith, hope and love. Major Margaret McLeod, divisional commander, Alberta and Northern Territories Division, adds the hospitality pole to the tipi.

From left, Dorothy Ballantyne (Opaskwayak Cree Nation), residential support worker at Mumford House, Saskatoon; Val Wiks, community ministries co-ordinator at Haven of Hope Ministries, Regina; and Major Kristiana MacKenzie, corps officer at Haven of Hope Ministries and chaplain at Regina Grace Haven and Gemma House, Regina.

“I didn’t realize The Salvation Army was focusing on reconciliation,” says Ballantyne. “I’ve been to pow wows, but I’ve never seen anything like this before, where they’re trying to teach and educate nonIndigenous people about Indigenous culture and traditions. To have ministry, at a Christian facility, with a diverse group of people, and we’re all here together—I didn’t expect any of this. As an Indigenous person and a Christian, seeing the two cultures together—that was huge for me.”

Front, from left: Chester Moore (Nisga’a Nation) and Jacob Nyce. Back, from left: Lt-Colonel Brian Armstrong, secretary for personnel; Damian Azak; Commissioner Susan McMillan; Major Shari Russell; Dr. Terry LeBlanc; Major Margaret McLeod; Collier Azak (Nisga’a Nation); and Lt-Colonel Lynn Armstrong, secretary for program. “It’s exciting to see people growing in their understanding of the richness and value of Indigenous cultures— whether we’re Nisga’a or Gitxsan or Anishinaabe or Mi’kmaq,” says Major Russell. “Relationship is key to reconciliation, so it’s important to create spaces where people can learn from one another and share their gifts.”

16 November 2018 Salvationist

Super Saturday

Gifts of Hope gives children in Argentina the chance to play.

BY RUTH HOBBIS

F

or 11-year-old Máximo, The Salvation Army’s Super Sábado (Super Saturday) program is more than just a kids’ club.

As a child with autism, Máximo often struggles to understand social situations and non-verbal communication.

Government caseworkers referred him to Super Sábado, believing that regular interaction with other children his age would have a positive impact on his development.

Twenty-five children between the ages of six and 12 currently attend the program, which is held at The Salvation Army’s Buenos Aires Central Corps in Argentina and run by corps officer Captain Valeria Nahuelfil and some of the corps’ youth members. In Buenos Aires, nearly 20 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line. The safe environment and affordable childcare that Super Sábado provides means a lot to parents in the community. This is especially true of families like Máximo’s, who must also cover the costs of developmental therapies and tuition for a specialized school.

Through generous donations to the Gifts of Hope ethical giving program, Captain Nahuelfil was able to purchase new toys, craft materials and equipment.

“This project provided the elements we needed to continue working with the children,” says Captain Nahuelfil. “Not just entertaining them, but challenging their minds.” The new toys are already a big hit and have begun to attract new people to the corps each Saturday.

Although Máximo lives two hours away from the corps, his brother drives him to Super Sábado every other week where he joins children from the community to play games, make crafts, enjoy snacks and listen to Bible stories. It is a place where they can make friends, express themselves and begin a relationship with Jesus. Those who show interest in the spiritual component of the program are also invited to attend

Máximo (centre) and other children at the Salvation Army kids’ club in Buenos Aires, Argentina, have new toys thanks to support from the Canada and Bermuda Tty

the corps’ services, Sunday school and youth group.

The Salvation Army in Buenos Aires has a strong partnership with other children’s programs that use the corps facilities, including the Army’s music school and a government-run play program called Juegoteca. Many of the children who come to Super Sábado also participate in these other programs, which occasionally join together for special projects and outings such as the “Right to Play Day” and “Street Games Summit.”

By strengthening relationships between children, families, the program staff and wider community, Super Sábado seeks to teach children the value of respect.

“The relational component of this program is very important,” says Claudia Franchetti, projects and sponsorship officer for the South America East Territory.

“Healthy relationships are the most favourable environment where behaviour changes may happen.”

Máximo loves the new toys that Captain Nahuelfil was able to purchase for the program. “He immediately turned

to the trucks,” says Captain Nahuelfil.

“We were so happy to see him playing and also relating to other kids as he played. We thank God for this huge blessing. We love to see their interest not to miss any of the activities. The parents tell us about their excitement to come!”

To celebrate the donation, she organized a special afternoon of board games.

Our territory is privileged to support the South America East Territory by providing necessary funding to important ministries. Stories like this remind us that something as seemingly small as a few toys and games can have a large impact. In this case, helping vulnerable children develop socially and form healthy relationships with others. We are grateful to our Gifts of Hope donors, who allow us to support so many deserving ministries around the world. As more families join the Super Sábado program, we hope they continue to find it a place of warmth, community and fellowship.

Ruth Hobbis is the resource media co-ordinator for the world missions department.

Salvationist November 2018 17

Resurrection Journey After years of hurt, I thought I was done with the church.

Then God broke through to me.

I

BY LIEUTENANT RICK APPERSON

Death I surrendered my heart to Jesus Christ in 1984 during a weeklong vacation Bible school. I had been searching for something for a few years and my interest in “spiritual things” was growing. I was just 13 but I was already looking into extrasensory perception, palm reading and a few other things. I was raised nominally Catholic so I prayed the Lord’s Prayer and said Hail Mary, but I gave the Bible just a cursory look. I was praying to a God I thought I believed in and at one point said a “sinner’s prayer” I found in a Christian booklet that was tossed out at a parade. But I did not know what it all meant.

Vacation Bible school changed that.

I learned about the love of Jesus Christ and what he did on the cross. I went home the first night and could not sleep, realizing I was a sinner and that Jesus was the answer I had been seeking all those years. The next night I sat on the edge of the pew, aisle seat, and waited with anticipation for the speaker to offer a chance to respond to the gospel. When he did, I nearly leapt from my seat. I made a decision that I thought I would never regret.

18 November 2018 Salvationist

Photo: Timothy Cheng

was at the end of my rope. I felt like I was dying of thirst in a parched desert. I began to seriously contemplate ending my life.

How did this happen? I had been a Christian for more than 20 years and served the Lord on the mission field. Yet here I was, driving down a rain-slicked road, considering which tree to slam my car into. I could not believe my life had turned out this way. I hated everything about the church and the people who sat in the pews. I was angry at God and at myself. I cried out to God in a loud voice, “I can’t take it anymore!” And that was when he broke through the dark clouds hovering over my life.

Lts Rick and Sarah Apperson are commissioned by Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, in June 2018

And then I started going to church.

Initially, I was excited by the newness of it all. Then I asked the assistant pastor of the church where I gave my heart to Christ what would happen if I sinned.

He told me that I would lose my salvation. As a freshly minted 13-year-old believer, this offhanded and unhelpful comment started me on a course I was not prepared for. I began to doubt my salvation. Was it real? Did I sin already and lose it all? Of course, I did sin, so was I bound for hell or did I need to say the sinner’s prayer again and again? My young mind was whirling.

But what happened next was far worse. At that time, my mom was suffering from multiple sclerosis and was dying. Many people were praying for her, and one night, she was healed instantaneously. Muscles that had atrophied were now fresh and renewed. My mom, who could not lift her arms and had no muscles, could now run a relay

race, beat me in arm-wrestling and ride a bike around the neighbourhood. But while we rejoiced at this miracle, our assistant pastor suggested that Satan had healed my mom to cause a distraction in our life.

We quickly found a new church, which turned out to be damaging in different ways. Members were spied on, and the pastor grilled children for information about their parents to use in Sunday sermons. There was also a huge emphasis placed on the wealthy members of the congregation, so when my family went through hard times, we were treated as second-class citizens.

This was particularly hard when my dad’s business folded in the middle of an economic downturn and we began to sell off our belongings to put food on the table. Eventually we had no home.

We went to church after church.

At first, they would help us, but when no improvement in our circumstances

came, they would turn away. According to these churches, we suffered financially because we had sinned. Nevertheless, I was determined to maintain my faith in the Lord despite the church and his people.

As time went on, I tried many different churches—I even went overseas and saw a whole new style of church—to no avail. The damage had been done. As I grew older and moved out on my own, I became bitter and resentful about the way I was treated by the churches I came into contact with. And as I struggled with personal sin that I seemed unable to conquer, I grew depressed and anxious.

My sin, hurts and frustrations developed to the point that I began to seriously contemplate ending my life. When I was at my worst, openly talking about suicide, one church we went to for help would not come to pray for me since I was not a member; they told us to come back and talk to the pastor another day.

Resurrection Then finally, while driving down that rainy road in 2003, the Lord broke through. As I cried out and told him that I could not take it anymore, I felt God tell me that I was correct—only he could take away my pain. He led me to a fellow believer who shared some deep biblical truths with me. The first was that God is a Father who cares, who tends his flock like a shepherd (see Isaiah 40:11). He also helped me understand my identity in Christ. As Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” Christ took my sins to the cross.

He is living in me now and he has been since I first gave my heart to him. It took some time, but the Lord rebuilt my life, my marriage and my whole being. I am a new creation in Christ Jesus.

I began to reflect on my journey and as I came to understand my identity in Christ, I also gained a new perspective on my past hurts. The hurts were real but I also saw threads of hope. I began to write and preach about these threads. Some of the lessons I learned were simple, such as the power of a shared meal. I realized that when we eat together, genuine fellowship can happen, and through the building of relationships, walls can come down and true care can develop. I also learned more about God’s grace and the place of wealth and poverty in our walk with God. I wrote a sermon on the power of a surrendered life, exploring

Lts Rick and Sarah with their son, Caleb

how humbly bending our knee and our will to the Lord can transform our life; how surrender helps us acknowledge our brokenness and leads to the healing of heart and mind. Eventually, I had written quite a few pages and realized I had the makings of a book. I reached out to friends around the world and asked for

I tried many different churches—I even went overseas and saw a whole new style of church— to no avail. The damage had been done. their church stories—good and bad—and incorporated them into the book.

But the Lord was not done yet. My resurrection journey came full circle with The Salvation Army. I started working in the Army’s food bank in Smithers, B.C., in 2006. Though I enjoyed the job, I was hesitant to become more involved with the Army. I had not yet learned to

trust. But when the executive director of the Army’s Bulkley Valley Social Services in Smithers moved to Port Hardy, B.C., the area commander offered me the position. I said yes but swore to myself and friends that I would never become a soldier. Yet when, as executive director, I was invited to attend a retreat for officers, I saw an Army I wanted to join. I became a soldier, thinking I would never become an officer. Again, it wasn’t long before I felt the Lord tugging on my heart. Though I resisted, one day, while leaving the office, I felt the Lord asking me why I was “kicking against the goads.”

I did not have a good answer. I began to seriously consider officership, and as I did, my lingering doubts and concerns about churches as a whole melted away.

Today I am a newly commissioned lieutenant, serving in Terrace, B.C. The man who once felt he had been killed by the church has been resurrected

by Christ and now works for a worldwide movement that dates back to 1865. God is amazing.

Lieutenant Apperson’s book, Killed by the Church, Resurrected by Christ, is available in bookstores or through online booksellers.

Salvationist November 2018 19

Guardian Angels

Christmas partnership supports Penticton Salvation Army all year.

20 November 2018 Salvationist

Photo: James Miller

S

ocial assistance is a lifesaver, but unfortunately it is not enough,” shares Crystal, a client of the Salvation Army food bank in Penticton, B.C. She moved to the Okanagan town several years ago with her young son after escaping an abusive relationship. Shortly after they arrived, however, her son was diagnosed with several medical conditions—autism, ADHD and global developmental delay—and Crystal was unable to work, meaning they had to go on social assistance.

“After paying rent I have a couple hundred dollars left so we rely on places like The Salvation Army to help us eat, and they supplied us with furniture to get started,” Crystal states. “We appreciate all the help we have received from the Army here in Penticton.”

Crystal is one of more than 200 people who have publicly shared their Salvation Army story in the pages of the Penticton Herald as part of the Army’s annual Be An Angel campaign. Launched in 2012, Be An Angel is a partnership between the Army, the Herald and Valley First Credit Union to raise funds for the Army during the Christmas season.

Every weekday during the month of December, the story of a person who has been helped by the Penticton Salvation Army appears on the front page of the newspaper, along with a call for donations. Readers who are moved to donate to the campaign are then recognized, by name, in the newspaper, further encouraging support as the campaign moves toward its goal. The names are published again in the Herald in January as a thank you to the community.

“Every dollar donated to this campaign stays within our readership area,” says Ed Kennedy, publisher of the Penticton Herald. “There is no administrative fee so 100 per cent of the money goes to families in need.”

The stories that appear in the Herald are gathered and submitted by Barb Stewart, program co-ordinator for The Salvation Army.

“When I meet with clients during our

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

The Salvation Army’s Be An Angel campaign raised more than $43,000 last year. From left, Paulo Aranjo and Mackenzie Rangers, Valley First Credit Union; Rene van der Meijden; and Ed Kennedy

Christmas hamper program, if I feel it is appropriate and not an intrusion, I will ask them if they would consider sharing their story as part of the Be An Angel campaign,” says Stewart.

“These stories educate and enlighten Herald readers about the varied reallife circumstances that lead someone to need to access the food bank, or spend a week in Compass House, our men’s and women’s shelter,” she says.

Educating the public is one reason why Kayley, a single mother whose son has autism, decided to share her story as part of the Be An Angel campaign.

“I want people to know that there are people like myself who need to access a food bank who are hardworking, who have degrees and once had successful lives, and now find themselves in difficult situations and have such a hard time asking for help,” she says. “Raising a child with special needs is tough and I only intend to use the food bank as a stepping stone.”

Since the campaign began in 2012, Be An Angel has raised almost $207,000,

including $43,314 in 2017. As many as 500 individuals and businesses donate to Be An Angel each year.

“Cash is the best non-perishable donation the food bank can receive,” says Rene van der Meijden, community ministry director, noting that the goal for this year’s campaign is $50,000. “With the help of Be An Angel, we can continue to assist well over 400 needy households with food every week and offer a variety of other services.”

Along with supporting the food bank, the funds donated to Be An Angel have made it possible for the Penticton Army to assist fire victims, host forest fire evacuees, send children to summer camp and assist homeless people by giving them a safe place to sleep and healthy meals.

Van der Meijden is quick to express gratitude to the Penticton community for making these activities possible.

“The real thanks goes to the people who support this campaign every year. We couldn’t do it without them.”

With notes from Barb Stewart.

FRESH IDEAS

Happy Meals Kenora Salvation Army takes recycling to the next level, with the help of some animal friends.

Sandra Poole and Gloria Saboyard, family services attendant, bring food into the Kenora thrift store

P

igs, chickens and rabbits may not be the typical clientele for a Salvation Army food bank. But Sandra Poole and the Lake of the Woods Community Church and thrift store in Kenora, Ont., are more than happy to include furry and feathered friends, if it means keeping expired and damaged goods from ending up in the landfill.

“The seed of the idea was planted by Peter Thomas, community and family services consultant at territorial headquarters in Toronto,” says Poole, business manager of the Kenora thrift store. “I was telling him about the stuff we have to get rid of—especially after a big event—be it outdated or so damaged that we can’t give it out.

“Peter commented that when he had a food bank in Midland, Ont., he passed on the product that couldn’t be given to clients to local pig farmers.”

After putting out a plea on social media in April 2018, Poole learned of Beaver Creek Ranch, a family entertainment farm about 10 minutes from downtown Kenora, which is owned and

Pigs at Beaver Creek Ranch enjoy a meal of recycled bread, courtesy of The Salvation Army

operated by Amanda Boucha and her husband.

“We contacted Amanda and asked if they’d be willing to take any unusable or expired items,” says Poole. “They said they would be happy to and so the food recycling program was born.”

Now, all of the food items Poole receives that are either already expired, or have been damaged to the point of being unuseable, go into a box that is set aside for the farm. Boucha picks up the food on a weekly basis and uses it to feed the animals at Beaver Creek Ranch.

“We notice, specifically when we have food drives, that we get a lot of expired stuff,” Poole says, noting that the Kenora Salvation Army did a food drive around Thanksgiving last year that brought in nearly six boxes of food that was already expired. “Even though we always ask people not to bring us expired food because we just have to dispose of it, it still comes.”

Recycling the expired food in this way reflects The Salvation Army’s commitment to good stewardship of the environment, while supporting local agro-tourism.

For Boucha and Beaver Creek Ranch, the food donations help to offset their costs, as the farm is not currently a source of income for them.

“We just wanted to create a place where families can come and have an experience,” Boucha says. “Plus, I’m thrilled about the whole recycling part of things.”

In addition to the recycling of food products through Beaver Creek Ranch, the Kenora thrift store, along with the Army’s store in nearby Dryden, Ont., also finds ways to recycle their damaged or unsellable clothing items.

In all cases of donated goods being given away to other organizations, Poole emphasizes that it is done as an absolute last resort, and only if the item is severely damaged, past its expiry date or hasn’t sold for more than six weeks.

“I don’t like adding to the landfill if I can help it,” she says. “Kenora is a small town and the landfill only has so much space, so if we can divert even one van load a week we’ve done well.”

Jordan Thompson is the communications and marketing co-ordinator in the Prairie Division.

Salvationist November 2018 21

Photo: Jordan Thompson

BY JORDAN THOMPSON

NOT CALLED?

Saying Yes to God How a music class led to a lifetime commitment.

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

F

or me, it’s come down to this,” declares Jenea Gomez. “I know who God has made me to be, I know who he has called me to be.

The best way I can fulfil that calling is as an officer.”

Journey to the Army When she was nine, Gomez w a s i nt roduced to T he Salvation Army by her grandmother.

“I was staying with my grandmother for the summer and she sent us to the Army music camp at our local corps in Texas.”

Gomez’s grandmother wasn’t a Salvationist but had attended the Army herself when she was young. “I think she knew that it was a positive place for young people,” says Gomez.

“We lived in a poor neighbourhood and The Salvation Army sent a van to pick us up for free.”

For three weeks that summer, Gomez and her older brother were taught basic music theory and learned how to play a brass instrument. Monday to Friday, the kids were taught to play a song, which they would perform on Sunday at church and invite their family to attend.

After that summer was over, Gomez and her brother continued to attend The Salvation Army.

“There was always something to do, there was always something to learn,” she says.

“That was how we got connected with the Army. Now, my brother’s a Salvation Army officer and all my family attend.”

The Path Gomez became a soldier when she was 16, and two years later, she moved to Vancouver to be part of the War College, the residential gap-year training program in the Downtown Eastside.

22 November 2018 Salvationist

who had just started there. The two fell in love and were married.

“They pray hard,” says Major Debra Blackman, their corps officer at Cariboo Hill Temple in Burnaby, B.C. “They seek the Spirit. They believe in miracles. They love Jesus. They build bridges to the last, lost and the least. God has definitely put them together as a team.”

Jenea Gomez

At that point, officership already interested her.

“At the corps I attended in Texas,” she says, “all of our leaders were soldiers, and I wanted to be a leader. I wanted to teach other people the things I had learned. I wanted to help with the brass band because that’s what had brought me in. I wanted to teach Sunday school because I had been taught at Sunday school.

“Soldiership was the path that solidified my decision to become an officer.”

Teamwork “I wanted to attend the War College because I felt I needed the experience of walking alongside people through difficult situations,” Gomez says, “and I knew the War College would provide that for me.”

So that is what she did for the next six years.

“Once I started, it became my life,” Gomez says.

During her second year at the War College, Gomez met Donny Menlanson,

The Commitments Gomez and Menlanson talked about officership when they first met, and it arose again when they talked about getting married.

“Af ter years of ser ving together in the Army and having conversations with different officers, I think it was this past year when we sat down with Majors Bill and Debra Blackman and we expressed our interest. That’s when things started to move.

“The Blackmans came back to us with overwhelming support. The more that we explored the idea, the more we committed.”

Nothing Else Matters Gomez and Menlanson are planning to go to the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg in 2019.

Gomez cautions that officership might not be for everyone. “For some people, another profession might be the best way to fulfil their calling,” she believes.

“For me, however, God has called me.

It’s not a matter of the pros and cons of the decision, because God will work that through. It’s how I can best live that out and say ‘yes’ to God. Nothing else matters.”

Donny Menlanson’s journey to officership will be told in next month’s Salvationist.

Equality vs. Equity How do we level the playing field?

BY MAJOR JUAN BURRY

S

even years ago, when we began an addictions day-treatment program at The Salvation Army’s Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre in Victoria, we didn’t have a lot of money. We had one addictions counsellor whose top priority was to help the men see themselves differently, stemming from our belief that most people’s destructive behaviour is not the result of simple choices, but rather the consequence of injured lives and distorted perspectives.

At the beginning and end of the 12-week program, the men were given a poster-sized sheet of paper and asked to answer, “Who am I?” At our first graduation ceremony, they read both aloud. The “before” posters usually had a few short statements, such as “I’m an addict” or “I am unemployed,” written so small it was hard for the audience to see. The “after” posters, on the other hand, were filled with expressive and optimistic sentences, such as “I am a child of God,” “I am fearless” and “I am patient with my shortcomings,” written in large letters.

Each man’s testimony shared similar themes. Each one had encountered abuse or trauma, often in early child-

hood. To provide relief or escape, they turned to alcohol or drugs. Following this were many years of battling addiction. The testimonies concluded with hope that this time around things would be better.

Many of the graduates went on to successfully reintegrate into society.

In seeing themselves differently, they approached the world differently. That was an important lesson for me.

Another lesson was more personal. I had to admit to myself—and asked the audience members at the graduation to admit as well—that perhaps the only reason we weren’t in the same situation as these men was because we had a larger degree of social advantage. I wasn’t physically or sexually abused; I didn’t grow up in abject poverty and shame; I didn’t suffer emotional and psychological torment from the people who were supposed to love me. Where would I be if I had? I can only imagine.

Christian social justice means ensuring that every person is given the opportunity to realize their God-given potential. But we must first acknowledge that not everyone coming to us for help began their journey at the same place.

Telling a homeless person that he can

stay in our shelter for 20 days like everyone else, or a single mom that she can only come to the food bank three times per year, doesn’t take into account their individual needs. Nor does it level the playing field so everyone in our society has the opportunity to succeed.

Procedures that treat everyone the same are usually implemented to make our operations efficient and fair. But equality is not equity. If we believe that God has a plan and purpose for each person, we must also believe that his plans have been frustrated in the lives of those who come to us for help by circumstances sometimes beyond their control.

Isn’t it our role to balance the scales so that God’s purposes might be accomplished?

Questions for Reflection: •S ocial justice is one of our territorial strategic priorities. The first action item is: “Deliver services in ways that respect and value people.” What does that look like? Is it just speaking kindly to people when they come through our doors, or does it require us to provide services tailored to each individual’s needs? How can we make that shift as an organization?

•A nother action item states that we will “stand up against situations of injustice that oppress and marginalize people.” When do we do that? In some Canadian cities, the unaffordability of housing is an example of injustice. Are we speaking out against the political and financial systems complicit in this crisis?

Building more shelters or affordable housing units doesn’t address the injustice; it just creates ghetto-like neighbourhoods and further marginalizes people.

•D o our theological perspectives regarding the nature of sin negatively impact the way we approach those in need of justice? Do we still view the drug addict in our treatment centre or the violent offender in our halfway house as someone who simply made bad choices and needs to turn to God? How would our service improve if we viewed activities that harm people through a more layered and sophisticated lens?

Major Juan Burry is the executive director of South Vancouver/Richmond Health Services in the British Columbia Division.

Salvationist November 2018 23

Illustration: Courtesy of Craig Froehle

LIVE JUSTLY

GRACE NOTES

Fear Not God is with us in the dark.

BY LIEUTENANT ERIN METCALF

24 November 2018 Salvationist

Photo: © LightFieldStudios/iStock.com

D

ad?” My little voice called out in the middle of the night. I paused for a few beats, waiting for the answer I knew would come.

“Yes?” “Can I please have a drink of water?”

Every night was the same routine.

I would wake suddenly, unsure if I was thirsty or terrified of the darkness that seemed to hover over me like a thick cloud. Paralyzed and glued to my bed, I would call out to my father, never doubting that he would answer.

Night after night, I would wake and call out, summoning my father from deep sleep to rush to my bedside, glass of water in hand. It was never about the water, of course—I just needed to know he was there. The water was just an acceptable way to ask him to come to my room.

Years later (after therapy and a great deal of self-examination), I came to realize that I was profoundly afraid of the dark as a child. There is any number of explanations why, and none of them matter much anymore. But what has stayed with me all these years is how the presence of my father in the dark of the night erased any sense of fear or terror.

To be clear, my father didn’t run down the hall with a flashlight in hand, or turn on my bedroom light. Mostly he stumbled down the unlit hallway, to an unlit bathroom, to fill whatever vessel he could find with water. Then he would enter my room and wait in the dark while I took a small sip.

This is significant because it was never light that eased my fears in those moments. It was simply knowing that when I needed him, when I was afraid, my father would show up. Even in the dark. And that he was willing to stand in the darkness while I slowly sipped the water, eyes darting around the room to make sure all the monsters living in the shadows were fleeing in his presence.

Light was never the answer in those moments. My father was comfortable in

Jacob wrestled with God all night.

Moses met God in thick darkness.

The parting of the Red Sea happened at night. the dark. He was comfortable enough in the absence of light to stay with me until my “thirst” had subsided and I was once again at peace, ready to sleep until morning.

I’m no longer afraid of the dark in my bedroom or a dark house at night, but I am afraid of the darkness that settles inside me sometimes. You know, that dark cloud that nestles in deep and holds us down for a time.

It used to be that I was really afraid of that particular kind of darkness, because I felt like God was absent in those times.

God is light and in him is no darkness at all, so God can’t be present during those dark times, right?

Well, if you read the Bible, God shows up in the dark a lot.

In fact, when Moses met God on the mountain, “The people remained at a

distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was” (Exodus 20:21). The thick darkness where God was.

Could it be that God is willing to come to us in the darkness, to meet us in the darkness, too?

We are so convinced that if we can just get through whatever dark time we currently find ourselves in, or whatever horrible heavy situation we face day in and day out, if we can just get to the other side, get to the light, God will be there waiting for us.

But that’s not what’s offered as a promise in Scripture. It occurs to me that the promise is that God shows up in the dark.

Jacob wrestled with God all night.

Moses met God in the thick darkness.

The parting of the Red Sea happened at night. There are more examples, of course.

The point is: God is not always on the other side of the darkness, waiting for us to break through into the light.

Sometimes God is with us in the dark, patiently waiting as a quiet presence until our fears subside and peace returns. That should give us a great deal of comfort.

The God I know is powerful enough to stand in the dark and stay with us until all the monsters are gone.

Lieutenant Erin Metcalf is the corps officer at Niagara Orchard Community Church in Niagara Falls, Ont.

Humanity 2.0 What are the ethical implications of gene editing technology?

BY AIMEE PATTERSON

I

magine being able to cure cancer, prevent disease, improve crops and even eradicate mosquitoes. It might sound like science fiction, but it’s quickly becoming science fact. Researchers are on the verge of a new era in molecular biology, with the power to silence or activate specific genes using something called CRISPR. CRISPR is an acronym for “Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats,” but the name isn’t as important as knowing how it works. CRISPR is part of a microbial immune system—a stretch of DNA that is able to recognize and destroy invading viruses. Scientists have been able to adapt this system to target and modify the genes of plants and animals, including human beings.

Think of it like the “cut and paste” function on your computer. Like editing a sentence in a document, CRISPR can cut out an undesirable strand of DNA so it can be replaced with a desirable strand. In 2015, a baby with leukemia was treated with genetically edited white blood cells. At the time of this writing, she is alive and in remission.

In the future, CRISPR could also be used to edit reproductive cells, making changes that are passed on to offspring.

For example, preventing the development of Huntington’s disease in one embryo would mean preventing it in future generations.

We aren’t there yet. Even the most prized gene editing technology, CRISPRCas9, has a lot of kinks to work out. But many in the scientific community view this not as an impediment, but as a matter of time. One of the scientists who discovered CRISPR-Cas9, Jennifer Doudna, says: “The possibilities are limited only by our collective imagination.”

Imagination is a great thing—you might say it’s in our DNA. But it must be tempered by ethics.

Take my CRISPR metaphor. Most of the time, I think of editing in a positive way. When I edit a document, I am removing typos, restructuring awkward sentences and reversing the order of paragraphs to create an improved second draft. I can also review the second draft, and if I don’t like a change I can undo it. Unfortunately, I’ve also been

in the position of editing, then saving and closing the document. The edit has become permanent. This is what gene editing potentially offers—a second draft of humanity.

In 2015, the International Summit on Human Gene Editing released a report that focused on the risks of editing reproductive cells, including changing the human gene pool. In my view, the report overlooks the “unlimited possibilities” that can come with altering the genes of individual people.

But more to the point, the report raised two ethical questions that must be considered. First, we must resolve safety risks. Second, we need a “broad societal consensus” among global stakeholders regarding both the appropriateness of this therapy and the acceptable norms for its use. The list of who counts as a stakeholder is fairly lengthy. In addition to the usual suspects—scientists, research funders and policy-makers—it names ethicists, health-care providers, patients and faith leaders.

Christian denominational or ecumenical bodies may be skeptical about how their comments will be received.

But Christians are not called to be silent on serious moral issues, especially when the wind is blowing against us.

So, beyond speaking to matters of safety, what can Christian leaders contribute? Before jumping ahead to possible outcomes, like designer babies or bionic humans, perhaps we should pay attention to more basic, immediate matters. Even a slight step across the threshold from medical therapy to technological enhancement should raise ethical questions.

For instance, what do Christians say about what is good about—or for— human beings? What does being created in God’s image have to do with human creativity and imagination? What does it have to do with human imperfection?

I’m convinced that if Christian leaders begin with general theological questions like these, we will be better prepared to engage in conversations on the practical ethics of gene editing technologies. And I wouldn’t be surprised if some Christian ethical conclusions are shared outside our faith community.

Dr. Aimee Patterson is a Christian ethics consultant at The Salvation Army Ethics Centre in Winnipeg.

Salvationist November 2018 25

Photo: © Natali_Mis/iStock.com

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

CROSS CULTURE

NEW FROM SALVATION ARMY AUTHORS Christ at the Door

Biblical Keys to Our Salvationist Future

BY PHIL NEEDHAM Christ at the Door is a resource intended to help Salvationists revitalize themselves and their corps. Aimed at Salvationists in the West, the book points out that Salvation Army membership is on the decline. “Maybe God is trying to call us back to things we have forgotten,” writes retired Commissioner Phil Needham. He begins by calling Salvationists back to radical discipleship, to a life of personal holiness. Then he goes on to discuss reimagining The Salvation Army, and the corps, as a movement rather than an institutional church. In the third and final section, Needham challenges readers to find their mission and then live it.

The Leadership of Jesus

Spiritual, Incarnational, Countercultural

BY PETER McGUIGAN The Leadership of Jesus is based on a collection of articles written by Major Peter McGuigan for The Officer magazine. While originally directed at Salvation Army officers, the book applies to all Salvationists because, as McGuigan notes, “all are leaders, all are followers.” His book is not a “how-to” manual for he suggests that “it is who we have become in Christ— and who we are becoming—that will determine how we lead.” As General André Cox (Rtd) notes in his foreword, The Leadership of Jesus is “a devotional aid to facilitate our own growth as leaders who follow the example and pattern of Christ…. The book reminds us that ‘ours is the business of the kingdom of God.’ ”

The History of The Salvation Army: Volume Nine 1995–2015

BY GENERAL SHAW CLIFTON (RTD) The ninth volume of The Salvation Army’s official history takes readers through 20 years and six Generals. It details some of the innumerable occasions when the Army met human needs in times of tragedy, such as 9/11 and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti; new initiatives such as the International Social Justice Commission; the opening of work in various countries, from Poland to Nepal and Togo; the launch of a new song book; theological developments; ecumenical and interfaith efforts; and much more, concluding with the Army’s Boundless 150 Congress in July 2015. While the book covers the Army’s many successes, it also does not shy away from addressing missteps. This book is an invaluable resource for Salvationists to learn about and from the Army’s history.

26 November 2018 Salvationist

IN THE NEWS World War Two Vet Skydives for Salvation Army

A great-grandfather from England made a high-flying “jump for freedom” in September—and it wasn’t the first time. A lifelong Salvationist and retired Salvation Army officer, 94-year-old Commissioner Harry Read made his first jump on D-Day, June 6, 1944, when he parachuted into Normandy. When planning his recent jump, which took place at The Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury, Read decided to use the event to fundraise for The Salvation Army’s anti-trafficking and modern slavery work in the United Kingdom. By the end of September, he had raised well over £6,000 (almost $11,000).

The retired officer says his drive to take part in the skydive is about his sense of faith overpowering his common sense, saying, “At whatever age we are, we are more than capable of shrinking from something that we feel is beyond us. But I believe we should not withdraw from a challenge—yesterday is not our best; our best is tomorrow.”

Prior to his retirement, Read served as the leader of The Salvation Army in both the United Kingdom and East Australia, and as chief secretary in Canada and Bermuda.

ON THE WEB New Report Studies Youth, Life Transitions and Faith

The question of why youth leave the church has been widely discussed in recent renegotiating years, as the number of young faith people with no religious affiliation grows.

A 2011 study called Hemorrhaging Faith found that major life transitions were often transitions out of church and faith for Christian young adults.

A new report, Renegotiating Faith: The Delay in Young Adult Identity Formation and What It Means for the Church in Canada, asks the next logical question: How can the church help teens stay connected to church and faith as they transition to life after high school?

Reflecting a national survey of 1,998 young adults, and a national survey of 1,570 ministry experts, as well as one-onone interviews, Renegotiating Faith is a detailed analysis of how and why young people disconnect from their faith, and the roles that mentors, youth groups and Christian camps can play in helping emerging adults keep the faith during this transition period.

Visit renegotiatingfaith.ca to read the full report.

The Delay in Young Adult Identity Formation and What It Means for the Church in Canada

Rick Hiemstra Lorianne Dueck Matthew Blackaby

A research partnership of

PEOPLE & PLACES

DARTMOUTH, N.S.—Bob DeMont, acting director at Railton House, retires following 23 years of faithful service. With him is Mjr Ross Grandy, assistant executive director, Halifax Centre of Hope.

KINGSTON, ONT.—Supported by Cpts Tina and Josh Howard, then COs, and Elaine and Ken Pedlar, holding the flag, Baylie Turney, Jessica Roberts, Vanessa Kennedy and Jacob Lawson are enrolled as junior soldiers, and Eleanor Richards, Brian Turney, Darrien Lacey, Nicole Seguin, Paul Berard, Karen Horten, Calvin Shibley, Hank Eshuis and Dennis Chadwick are enrolled as senior soldiers at Rideau Heights Corps.

SPRINGDALE, N.L.—Skylar Pilgrim, Emma Milley and Jayla Harris are the newest junior soldiers at Springdale Corps. With them are Mjrs Wycliffe and Shirley Reid, COs, and Jon Sturge, children/youth director, holding the flag.

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I.—Nancy Hood is enrolled as a senior soldier at Charlottetown CC. Lending support are Mjr Daniel Roode, CO; Mjr Glenda Roode, community ministries officer; and CT Steffen Hood.

EDMONTON—Sathish Pandi, driver for The Salvation Army Addiction and Residential Centre (ARC), receives the Janet Hughes Award in recognition of his work in lessening food insecurity in Edmonton as a staff member at an agency affiliated with the Edmonton Food Bank. The Army partners with the food bank to provide three locations around the city—Castledowns CC, Edmonton Temple and the ARC—where food hampers prepared by the food bank can be picked up by people in need closer to where they live. Supported by his wife, Akila Sathish, Pandi receives the award from Mjr Judy Regamey, executive director, ARC.

TORONTO—Twelve-year-old Stuart Robertson of Peterborough Temple, Ont., presents $340 for the Partners in Mission campaign to Lt-Col Brenda Murray, director of world missions, and Lt-Col Sandra Rice, DC, Ont. CE Div, during congress and commissioning weekend in June. A junior soldier, scout, corps cadet, junior bandsman and member of the divisional young people’s band, Robertson asked his friends who were invited to his 12th birthday party to donate to the campaign instead of buying him gifts.

GREEN’S HARBOUR, N.L.—Edith Braye retires following 30 years of faithful service as the home league secretary at Green’s Harbour Corps. Marking the occasion with her are Mjrs Betty and Brian Thomas, then COs.

GEORGINA, ONT.—Members of the Evangelists Session (1967-69) gathered at Jackson’s Point Conference Centre to mark their 50th anniversary.

Front, from left, Sheila McLaughlin (Willis), Mjr Barbara Bain (Howes), Mjr Helen Bulmer and Mjr Max Bulmer. Back, from left, General Linda Bond (Rtd), Mjr Helen Hastie, Sandra Garlow (Garland) and Mjr Brenda Holnbeck.

Salvationist November 2018 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

SPRINGDALE, N.L.—Terrence Pelley, Anna Brooks and Judy Winsor-Vincent are enrolled as senior soldiers at Springdale Corps. With them are Mjrs Wycliffe and Shirley Reid, COs, and Kevin Saunders, colour sergeant.

ABBOTSFORD, B.C.—The Salvation Army in Abbotsford recognizes and celebrates the commitment to the Army’s mission by its employees, many of whom have been with the organization for a number of years. Sharing a lighthearted moment together are, front, from left, Theresa Kampman (employed since 2006), Deanna Field (2002), Sukhbir Gahunia (2006), Sylvia Antonescu (2006), Rose Wood (2003) and Sam Scarah (2001). Back, from left, Cpt Mark Dunstan, CO, Cascade CC; Charlene Smith (2007); Rob Smith (2007); Randy Clayton (2005); Derrick Dick (1999); Les Friesen (2002); Donna Friesen (2006); and Ian Pollard, executive director, Centre of Hope.

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I.—Leadership ranks are strengthened at Charlottetown CC as local officers are commissioned. Front, from left, Evelyn MacLure, literature secretary; Marilyn Thompson, welcome sergeant; and Anita Matheson, home league secretary. Back, from left, Mjr Daniel Roode, CO; CT Steffen Hood; Gloria Dalziel, prayer sergeant; Wayne Bryenton, Bible study sergeant; Mjr Glenda Roode, community ministries officer; and Harvey Leyte, men’s fellowship secretary and colour sergeant.

KENTVILLE, N.S.—Standing under the flag held by Mervin Meisner are Kentville CC’s newest soldiers and adherents. From left, Teddy Taylor, senior soldier; Tara Kalkman, Dan Kalkman, Sue Roubeau, Chris Jordan, Colleen Whyte-Jordan and Kim Boswell, adherents; Carolyn Boyde, senior soldier; and Cpts Cory and Kelly Fifield, COs.

ORILLIA, ONT.—There is much to celebrate at Orillia Corps as eight junior soldiers and one adherent are enrolled, and a new corps sergeant-major is commissioned. Proudly displaying their Junior Soldier Promises are, from left, Emily Ingram, Amber Young/Sonier, Alyssa Young/Sonier, Brayden Buker, Coby Buker, Tamrah Buker, Dustin Buker and Samantha Sterne. Back, from left, Noel Sterne, youth co-ordinator; Pat Laraque, adherent; Cpts Kathleen and Chad Ingram, then COs; and CSM Ivan Downey.

CONCEPTION BAY SOUTH, N.L.—Supported by Mjrs Lorne and Barb Pritchett, COs, and ACSM Claudette Hillier, Dwayne Whittle and his son, Richard Whittle, are enrolled as senior soldiers at Conception Bay South Corps.

28 November 2018 Salvationist

WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C.—The Salvation Army is well represented at the Canada Day parade in Williams Lake thanks to the efforts of individuals from Williams Lake Corps and community and family services. Front, from left, Rachel Butt, Daenah Oswald, Miyra McLaughlin and Ethan Butt, holding the leash of his canine friend, Adelle. Back, from left, Jean Beaulieu; Winter McLaughlin as Sally Ann; Nica St. Laurent; Tamara Robinson, family services and community outreach director; and Lt Geoff Butt, CO.

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES BRAMPTON, ONT.—Gerald “Gerry” Reilly was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1933, and from an early age attended Dee Street Corps. As a young boy in the junior band, he accepted Christ and began a vibrant relationship that never waned and which continues to serve as a testimony to his family. Gerry was a dedicated bandsman and songster. Commissioned as the deputy songster leader at Dee Street, he also served as young people’s sergeantmajor before immigrating to Toronto in 1967 with his wife, Sarah, and three children. A fourth child was born in Canada. Gerry was the songster leader at Toronto’s Willowdale Corps, and after moving to Brampton in 1972, at Brampton Citadel until retirement. Employing his smooth Irish tenor voice to glorify his Lord on many occasions, his dedication as a senior soldier for more than 70 years is a lasting legacy. Gerry moved to Kingston, Ont., in the fall of 2017, and was promoted to glory a few months later. He is remembered and missed by Sarah, his loving wife of 63 years; children Christine (David), Gary (Laurie), Lynn (David) and David (Connie); 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Guidelines for Tributes

Salvationist will print tributes (maximum 200 words), at no cost, as space permits.

We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Tributes should be received within three months of the promotion to glory and include: community where the person resided, corps involvement, Christian ministry, conversion to Christ, survivors. A high-resolution digital photo or high-resolution scan of an original photo (TIFF, EPS or JPG; 300 ppi) should be emailed to salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org; a clear, original photograph mailed to 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4 will be returned.

GAZETTE INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Jan 1—Comrs Wilfred Varughese/Prema Wilfred, TC/ TPWM, India Central Tty; Lt-Cols Daniel/Baby Sarojini Dasari, TC/TPWM, India Northern Tty, with rank of col TERRITORIAL Appointments: Lt-Col Jim Champ, territorial ecumenical officer; Mjr David Macpherson, AC, B.C. Div (designation change); Mjr Leonard Millar, CO, Red Deer Church and Community and Family Services, Alta. & N.T. Div; Mjrs Wilfred/Wavey Simms, COs, Englee, N.L. Div; Mjrs Ronald/Joyce Stuckless, COs, La Scie, N.L. Div

CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Nov 4 welcome meeting for new CS and TSWM, Oshawa Temple, Ont.; Nov 10-11 National Remembrance Day Service, Ottawa; Nov 17 Fall Festival with the Canadian Staff Band and NewFound Brass, Guelph Citadel, Ont.; Nov 18 Santa Claus Parade, Toronto; Nov 18-19 Territorial Executive Conference/Territorial Leaders’ Conference, JPCC; Nov 22 Hope in the City breakfast, Fairmont Royal York, Toronto; Nov 24-26 CFOT; Nov 26 BUC; Nov 28-30 Cabinet retreat, JPCC Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill: Nov 4 welcome meeting for new CS and TSWM, Oshawa Temple, Ont.; Nov 17 Fall Festival with the Canadian Staff Band and NewFound Brass, Guelph Citadel, Ont.; Nov 18 Santa Claus Parade, Toronto; Nov 18-19 Territorial Executive Conference/Territorial Leaders’ Conference, JPCC; Nov 28-30 Cabinet retreat, JPCC Canadian Staff Band: Nov 17 Fall Festival with NewFound Brass, Guelph Citadel, Ont.; Nov 18 Santa Claus Parade, Toronto Canadian Staff Songsters: Nov 3-4 North Toronto CC

Salvationist November 2018 29

SALVATION STORIES

Something Good I was struggling with depression and self-harm, then an invitation to youth group changed my life.

BY JULIA DESORMEAUX

30 November 2018 Salvationist

Photo: Joanne Desormeaux

I

t all started in Grade 7. I was a happy kid when I was younger—I liked painting, knitting and animals. But when I turned 12, things changed. I started having dark thoughts that seemed to come out of nowhere, although I do think social media played a part. The media is constantly saying you need to be thin and look a certain way to be liked, and that definitely had an impact on me. I didn’t like my body or what I looked like. So to deal with it, I self-harmed.

I never knew what a few cuts could do to you. After the first time, it became a habit. I think the worst part is that I didn’t know why I was so sad. I didn’t have any reason to be. I kept it a secret because I didn’t think anyone would understand or that they’d say I was doing it for attention.

A few months later, my parents found out. They took me to counselling and I felt better for a while, but then the thoughts came back and hit me even harder. I just always felt worthless. I started to self-harm again. I thought it wouldn’t get better because it had been going on for about a year.

My parents took me to another counsellor, but it didn’t help. By this time, I didn’t care about anything or how people saw me. I started drinking, smoking and going to parties. The first month of Grade 9 was the worst. I wanted to die almost every day and was put on medication.

Then Emma Wong, a youth leader at The Salvation Army in Kemptville, Ont., invited me to the youth group. I knew who she was, because she’s my best friend’s sister, but we had never officially met.

My mom grew up in a church and I had always believed in God, but my family only went to church at Christmas and Easter. One night, I decided to try the youth group, and I really liked it.

Things were still not going well, but at

“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to give everything to God, to let him carry my burdens because he can handle it,” says Julia Desormeaux

least I was making new friends.

In October, the youth group attended the Change Conference in Toronto. I had heard so many great stories about people who struggled with the same things as me and then found Jesus and it helped them. The whole weekend I was hoping I would have an encounter with God so I could know for sure that he is with me.

At the end of the conference, all the youth pastors started praying over their youth groups. During the prayer, I felt God there. He told me he has been with me through everything and that he cares about me. I was crying tears of joy and it was the most amazing feeling ever.

After the conference, my whole life changed. I started leading worship at the youth group and going to church more often. Being part of the youth group has helped me so much. I’ve made so many friends who are always there for me. I

can go to them for advice and get a biblical answer.

I have completely fallen in love with God and I continue to grow spiritually every day. The past few years have been a huge struggle, and I still go through bumps in the road, but now that I have God by my side, life has been so much easier and happier. I know I can count on him to understand and always be with me.

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to give everything to God, to let him carry my burdens because he can handle it. “I am not alone, for my Father is with me” (John 16:32).

God doesn’t waste pain, and all the crazy things that have happened to me in the past all happened so that something good can come out of it. I can’t wait to see what adventures God takes me on in the future.

To Donate: 1. Online at salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope 2. Phone 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) and quote “Gifts of Hope” 3. Mail in the order form below

TOGETHER, WE ARE MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Hope Through Farming

Hope Through Health You can help families and communities live healthier lives in rural locations that have little or no access to health care.

Help individuals and families grow bountiful harvests so communities can thrive. $25 Chickens (GH-0012) $30 Pig (GH-0002) $40 Goat (GH-0001) $50 Plant a Garden (GH-0013) $100 Train a Farmer (GH-0016)

$30 $50 $12

Hope Through Education

Water and Sanitation (GH-0007) Family Health (GH-0008) Mosquito Net (GH-0006)

Hope Through Communities

Learning is a lifelong journey. You can give the skills to help write a success story!

Help communities grow, work and play together as they move towards a better future.

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$30 Sports and Recreation (GH-0019) $100 Eco Cooker (GH-0009) $150 Transportation - OX CART, BUSH AMBULANCE AND BICYCLE (GH-0018)

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Simply enter code GH-0011 and send your donation for “where the need is greatest” (minimum $10).

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