Salvationist February 2019

Territory Unveils New Core Values

Borrowing Trouble: Are Payday Loans Ethical?

“I Am Not a Proverbs 31 Woman”

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

February 2019

Mission in Mozambique Getting to know our new partner territory

Salvationist.ca

“O for a heart of compassion, Moved at the impulse of love.”

General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle World President of Women’s Ministries

Supported by Commissioner Susan McMillan Territorial Commander

With the Messengers of Compassion and the Canadian Staff Band

British Columbia Divisional Congress + Commissioning and Ordination June 21–23, 2019

UBC Campus, Vancouver

Learn More commissioningweekend.ca

CONTENTS

Salvationist February 2019 • Volume 14, Number 2

Departments

16

5 Frontlines 19 Not Called?

Listening to My Heart

by Lt-Colonel Genevera Vincent

Get more online

24 Ethically Speaking

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

Borrowing Trouble

by Major David McNeilly

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

25 Fresh Ideas Back to Basics

by Kristin Ostensen

27 People & Places 30 Salvation Stories Good, Good Father

by Tamara Randlesome

Columns 4 Editorial Levelling the Playing Field

by Geoff Moulton

9 Onward Heart and Soul

by Commissioner Susan McMillan

26 Grace Notes I Am Not a Proverbs 31 Woman

by Captain Laura Van Schaick

19

Features 7 Territory Unveils New Core Values Four statements to guide decision-making and organizational behaviour.

by Geoff Moulton

10 Partners in Mission Canada and Bermuda Territory adds two new partner territories.

12 Mesmerizing Mozambique Getting to know our newest Partners in Mission territory.

by Joel Johnson

16 A-maize-ing The Salvation Army in Malawi trains farmers in conservation agriculture.

by Ruth Hobbis

/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: Joel Johnson

Read and share it!

No-Drip Zone

“HONEY ...” P.10

On the Edge of Death

A CALL FOR HELP P.8

Army Provides Hope

HURRICANE! P.13

Faith&Friends I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G

faithandfriends.ca

FEBRUARY 2019

18 Go and Bear Fruit Call and commitment Sunday challenges Salvationists to consider officership.

by Major Jennifer Hale

20 The Gathering Place At Moncton’s community and family services, relationships are the key to transformation.

by Kristin Ostensen

Beyond the Headlines

IN AN AGE OF FAKE NEWS, AWARDWINNING TV HOST MOLLY THOMAS FIGHTS TO TELL THE TRUTH. P.16

Salvationist February 2019 3

EDITORIAL

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Levelling the Playing Field

ast November 30, I watched with interest as The Salvation Army established a single Australia Territory, merging the two previous territories under the leadership of Canada’s own Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd. With the banner “Still Others: Gathering as One Army,” it was a wonderful celebration by our friends in the southern hemisphere.

One of the livestreamed events that caught my attention was Coffee With the General, an opportunity for candid conversation with General Brian Peddle around issues of importance to the Army. At one point, the moderator asked, “What would you like to change about the Army that is not changing fast enough?”

The General’s response was swift: “I would like a much more level playing field in our international Army when it comes to opportunity and the challenges of being one Army. The majority of financial resources exist in territories where we might not be growing exponentially. Yet, where the Army is bursting with life and new growth, the resources are very, very small…. The inequity! My heart breaks for the extreme circumstances in which officers serve around the world. I believe we can do much, much more.”

He described visiting The Salvation

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 February 2019 Salvationist

Army’s compound in Tanzania where there is a school for orphaned children: “I can’t take them home; but I don’t want to leave them either. Fortunately, The Salvation Army is there, because if we weren’t they would be discarded. In our western reality, we need to see the world as our mission field. We must figure out how to mobilize the Army internationally. Help me do that!”

It was a clarion call to the Army. Our annual Self-Denial Appeal, also known as Partners in Mission, is just such an opportunity to “level the playing field,” to address the inequity in resourcing The Salvation Army around the world.

Our fundraising target this year is $2.3 million. This year, the Canada and Bermuda Territory adds two new partners: the Mozambique Territory and the Bangladesh Command. Check out our infographic on all of the partner territories on page 10.

Also in this issue of Salvationist, we share a photo essay on the work in the Mozambique Territory, where the Army is providing quality education in a nation where the illiteracy rate is still more than 60 per cent. You’ll also learn about conservation agriculture in Malawi that has given a new lease on life to farmers who have endured drought (page 16).

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.

It’s no coincidence that one of our new territorial core values is stewardship (page 7). The Bible urges that each “should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10). This year, let’s use those gifts to bless others in the developing world; and, in turn, let’s be ready to receive the lessons in faithfulness that they have to teach us. Let’s commit to being one Army together.

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

FRONTLINES

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Ont., featured legendary Detroit Tigers baseball player Willie Horton. Speaking about sports, faith and giving back, Horton highlighted the importance of family and community in combating poverty.

Recovery was the theme at Winnipeg’s HITC breakfast, where more than 400 guests heard from Conrad Ginter. Once suicidal and hopelessly addicted to alcohol, Ginter shared how the Army’s Anchorage program saved his life. HITC events in Ottawa and Barrie, Ont., also took up this theme, with guest speaker Jay Barnard. Once a struggling addict, Barnard changed his life after receiving help from The Salvation Army and is now a successful chef and business owner.

The HITC luncheon in Sudbury, Ont., drew more than 300 volunteers, community leaders and supporters.

The event highlighted the Army’s services and featured the 2018 Community Support Awards, which were given to Glad Tidings Church, Kiwanis Sudbury, John Howard Society, and Zoe and Kayla Daoust.

Four hundred guests in Toronto learned about the chilling reality of human trafficking in Canada from Larissa Maxwell, director of anti-human trafficking programs, British Columbia Division. A sold-out HITC event in St. John’s, N.L., featured Earl Ludlow, retired executive vice-president of Fortis Inc.

Photo: Jill Fitz Photography

he Salvation Army held various Hope in the City (HITC) events across the territory in November and December, to raise funds and increase awareness of the Army’s work at Christmas and throughout the year.

In Vancouver, where the first Hope in the City event was held 17 years ago, more than 1,300 people gathered for a “fireside chat” with Olympic gold medal-winning figure skaters Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. The skating duo were also guest speakers in Victoria, where the Army held its inaugural HITC event this year.

Supporters in London and Hamilton, Ont., appreciated HITC events with Bob Rae, Indigenous rights advocate and former Ontario premier. “No organization knows the power of change more than The Salvation Army,” said Rae. “They never give up on anyone because they know inside there is a human being striving to change.” Major Shari Russell, territorial Indigenous ministries consultant, also spoke on the Army’s commitment to walking with Indigenous people and highlighted the recent Celebration of Culture pow wow.

Edmonton and Calgary welcomed retired General Rick Hillier, former chief of defence staff for the Canadian Forces, who spoke about leadership. Hillier made the first ceremonial kettle donation in Edmonton, while Deputy Mayor Jyoti Gondek did so in Calgary.

The HITC luncheon in Windsor,

Figure skaters Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir ring the kettle bells at the inaugural Hope in the City event in Victoria

Photo: Mark Spowart

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Hope in the City Events Raise Funds, Inspire Guests

Former Ontario premier Bob Rae was the guest speaker at Hope in the City events in London and Hamilton, Ont.

Festive Santa Shuffle Supports Army

aking place in 38 cities across Canada, from Victoria to St. John’s, N.L., the 28th annual Santa Shuffle saw more than 16,000 people run or walk in support of The Salvation Army in December. Presented in partnership with The Running Room, the five-kilometre run and one-kilometre Elf Walk raised more than $600,000 for the Army.

In keeping with Santa Shuffle tradition, participants dressed in festive gear, from Santa suits to reindeer costumes, often braving cold temperatures for the event. Many locations offered participants hot drinks and food, as well as a commemorative Santa Shuffle medal.

The Ottawa Salvation Army held its largest event to date, attracting more than 1,500 participants. As the largest Santa Shuffle in the territory, Ottawa’s event also raised the most funds.

Army supporters brave cold weather for the Santa Shuffle in Red Deer, Alta.

Salvationist February 2019 5

FRONTLINES

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Salvation Army Officers Attend World Religions Event

housands of representatives from more than 200 faith traditions attended the eighth Parliament of the World’s Religions at the Toronto Convention Centre in November. The delegates came from all corners of the earth, representing more than 80 countries. Lt-Colonel Jim Champ, territorial ecumenical officer, Major April McNeilly, territorial secretary for spiritual life development, and Lt-Colonel John Murray, secretary for communications, attended on behalf of The Salvation Army.

The Parliament’s theme was “The Promise of Inclusion, The Power of

Love,” with the aim of pursuing global understanding, reconciliation and love.

The invitation to listen and learn from each other, and a shared belief in the dignity of all humans, helped create an atmosphere of mutual respect. Seminars, forums, plenary sessions and a wide array of exhibits demonstrated the diversity of the Parliament. Colourful dress, lively dance and song all contributed to the mosaic of the experience.

Social justice issues were very much to the fore throughout the week, with particular focus on the rights of women, Indigenous peoples, climate justice and care for the earth. Canadian author

Mjr April McNeilly greets a Hindu delegate

Margaret Atwood spoke passionately about the need to save the planet, citing the continuing pollution of the world’s oceans. “You don’t save what you don’t love,” said Atwood, reminding listeners that in the Book of Genesis, the Creator charged humankind to be stewards of the earth.

“It was a privilege to interact with others who share concerns about war, poverty and caring for the environment,” says Major McNeilly. “Having said that, we must prayerfully consider how we come to this table. While his extravagant love is for people of all religions, Jesus is ultimately the way to God.”

Lt-Col Jim Champ meets with members of the Sikh community

IHQ Exhibit Highlights Reconciliation Efforts

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unique exhibition at The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters (IHQ) in London, England, brought attention to the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s efforts to restore relationships with Indigenous peoples.

Held at IHQ in November and December, the Choose Peace exhibition commemorated the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. Its purpose was to encourage a continuation of peacebuilding efforts by highlighting peacebuilding work in the United Kingdom and around the world.

The display highlighting the Canada and Bermuda Territory was called “Choose Reconciliation.” Visitors received an overview of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which addressed the history and legacy of residential schools in Canada, and The Salvation Army’s response. In particular, the exhibition highlighted the Celebration of Culture events held by The Salvation Army in 2017 and 2018, which are an expression of the Army’s desire to listen, learn and build relationships with Indigenous people, in response to the TRC’s calls to action. Along with written information, the exhibit 6 February 2019 Salvationist

featured photographs from the pow wow at the Celebration of Culture held last August.

The Salvation Army’s journey of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada is highlighted at IHQ

Territory Unveils New Core Values Four statements to guide decision-making and organizational behaviour.

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BY GEOFF MOULTON

n January 10, Commissioner Susan McMillan shared the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s new core values statements during her New Year Address, which was livestreamed from territorial headquarters. The four values—hope, service, dignity and stewardship—will supersede the previous values.

In her message, the territorial commander affirmed, “Core values help us to determine if we are on the right path. They are an unwavering guide that we can turn to when we’re faced

with difficult questions. They are grounded in Scripture and in God’s call upon our lives.”

Beginning more than three years ago, the Ethics Centre in Winnipeg engaged in a process of surveying the territory’s adherence to and understanding of its original core values statements. While they discovered that overall the Army is good at living out its values, they identified the need to frame them in such a way that they would resonate with everyone— from the territorial commander to thrift store employees to Salvationist February 2019 7

corps officers to volunteers on the kettles.

“Changing the core values statements does not mean the previous values are not worthwhile or important,” notes Sharon Jones-Ryan, who led the study during her tenure with the Ethics Centre. “But working toward congruency between organizational values and practice meant growing our understanding, both at the Ethics Centre and in the territory as a whole, as to the role of values in organizational life.”

The first formal statement of values for Canada and Bermuda was created in 2003. In 2011, those 10 values were organized into core values of faith (salvation, holiness and intimacy with God) and operational values (compassion, respect, excellence, integrity, relevance, co-operation and celebration). This categorization led some to question whether or not our Christian identity as The Salvation Army was compromised by the separation between “faith” and “operation” in the statements.

Another complicating factor was that many officers and employees, when asked, could not name the values. The conclusion of the study was that 10 values are too many, and that workers can only live the values to the extent that they can readily call them to mind.

“Core values are an unwavering guide … grounded in Scripture and in God’s call upon our lives.”

—Commissioner Susan McMillan In 2015, a process for establishing a new values statement began. This involved wide consultation throughout the territory, from the leadership to the grassroots. After a series of working groups involving representatives from all levels of the organization, the current values statements were crafted and approved by Cabinet.

A decision was made not to retain any of the words from the old values list for fear of implying that one was somehow more important than the others. As in the past, each value is accompanied by an associated “behaviour statement”—a short explanatory line that helps unpack the meaning and expectations behind the value.

Management guru Susan Heathfield writes, “Core values are not just qualities that you consider worthwhile; they represent an organization’s highest priorities, deeply held beliefs and fundamental driving forces. They are the heart of what your organization stands for in the world.”

James Read, director of the Ethics Centre, agrees. “Values are both ‘who we are’ and ‘who we want to say we are,’ ” he says. “They are both ingrained in our DNA and an ideal that we continually strive for. The four values chosen are what differentiate us and make us unique.”

Posters of the values will be circulated for use in ministry units. The values statements are intended to be coupled with and reinforced by our mission statement: “To share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.”

8 February 2019 Salvationist

Unpacking the Values

The following excerpt from Commissioner McMillan’s New Year Address brings context to each of the new territorial core values:

HOPE— We give hope through the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The first of our new values is hope. That’s no surprise! Our brand promise for more than a decade has been “Giving Hope Today.” We give hope to vulnerable people in more than 400 communities across the territory. Our mission is to reach out to people who are lonely, lost and marginalized. To let them know that someone cares. That even though today may have its challenges, there can be a better tomorrow.

SERVICE— We reach out to support others without discrimination.

We all need other people. But for various reasons, some people are overlooked, stigmatized or pushed to the margins. This is demeaning and unfair, and God takes it personally. On the other hand, the Bible says that those who serve others will know God’s blessing. Jesus’ ministry was dedicated to interacting with people from every walk of life. He calls his followers to do the same. In our corps and in our social ministries—indeed all of life—we are called to love each other, and particularly those who are not like us. People are not as different as we might think.

DIGNITY— We respect and value each other, recognizing everyone’s worth.

To be human is to bear the image of God. This is innate and inalienable; it cannot be earned or taken away. It gives every human being a fundamental equality with every other human being. When it comes to our social services, our founders, William and Catherine Booth, offered “soup, soap” and then “salvation” to hurting people. I think the order is important because it speaks of dignity. They realized that it’s hard to feed a person’s soul when they have an empty stomach. It’s hard to preach about finding a spiritual home when you don’t have anywhere to lay your head for the night. That’s why they took care of people’s practical needs first. Human dignity should never be ignored.

STEWARDSHIP— We responsibly manage the resources entrusted to us.

The Bible asks, “What do you have that you did not receive?”

(1 Corinthians 4:7). This is the starting point. The most that anyone can do is to build on something they were given to start with. Gifts from other people or God are best understood as trusts. We can be good stewards of our finances, as we budget wisely, give generously and account for funds. We can also be good stewards of the earth, reducing our carbon footprint and caring for creation. And we can offer up our time and talents, turning our passions into a way of giving back to others.

I invite you to consider: How do these values apply to your situation? How can you embed these values into every aspect of your work? How are you giving hope, providing service without discrimination, offering dignity and ensuring wise stewardship of resources?

I would encourage you to see these not only as corporate values, but as your values. Together, we can own them and together they can provide a new context for how we live out The Salvation Army’s mission in the world.

Heart and Soul The Self-Denial Appeal calls us to live simply, so others can simply live.

BY COMMISSIONER SUSAN McMILLAN

Women in Bangladesh display their handiwork for Others—Trade for Hope

Every person is worthy of an infinite wealth of love—the beauty of his soul knows no limit.

—Rabindranath Tagore, Glimpses of Bengal

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s you read this, I am visiting Bangladesh, our newest partner in mission, with Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray, director of world missions. We are delighted to come alongside this command and support the work of The Salvation Army there.

Bangladesh, which means land or country of Bengal, has always seemed exotic and mysterious to me. A nation of around 165 million people, it is one of the world’s largest textile exporters. However, it still suffers from poverty, with almost 15 per cent of its population living below the international poverty line.

Education for all children remains a goal. In 2015, 80 per cent of children in Bangladesh completed primary school. This was a huge leap forward, achieved through forward-thinking policies such as gender parity in education.

The Salvation Army operates several education projects, including a primary school, early learning centres, schools for the visually- and hearing-impaired and vocational training.

In my research for this trip, I was surprised to find that the renowned poet, Rabindranath Tagore, is a Bengali.

Born in Calcutta (now Kolkata), West Bengal, India, one of his poems (My Golden Bengal) became Bangladesh’s national anthem. The quote that begins this article reminds us how important it is to treat every person with dignity, and to reach out in love to those in need. Our Partners in Mission campaign, which begins this month, is a way of showing love to our partner territories and commands across the globe, a way to share with each other. We can give from our bounty to make a difference in the lives of others, but that’s not all—we can also learn important lessons from our partners and gain from their experience.

In Bangladesh, the Army’s work with victims of the sex trade—providing an alternative livelihood—has

resulted in a worldwide enterprise called Others—Trade for Hope. Now artisans in Kenya, Moldova and Pakistan also produce handmade products, which are then sold through Salvation Army channels in other parts of the world.

When purchasing Others products, we receive information on how the artisans’ lives have been transformed through the Army’s ministry in their country.

For more information, visit salvationist. ca/others.

This year, the Partners in Mission campaign is focusing on two territories: Malawi and Mozambique. Our goal is to raise $2.3 million.

In Malawi, The Salvation Army’s community development work includes an adult literacy program, agricultural training, clean water and sanitation projects, and a bush ambulance. The Army serves victims of human trafficking and people who have been affected by the HIV pandemic.

In Mozambique, the Army operates daycares and schools, and provides emergency disaster and recovery services to those affected by recent tropical storms. Their league of mercy (community care ministries) is especially helpful to seniors living alone under difficult circumstances.

Be sure to ask your corps officer about our Partners in Mission videos for more information. You will be amazed at what is being accomplished in both of these territories with the help of Salvationists who support the Self-Denial Appeal.

Partnering with other territories and commands has been a wonderful source of blessing for us, and I encourage you to prayerfully consider your contribution to the Self-Denial Appeal. Is there something you can do without, for a time, so that The Salvation Army can continue to carry out such effective work overseas?

Help us show the world our territory’s beautiful soul. Remember Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Commissioner Susan McMillan is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory. Follow her at facebook.com/ susanmcmillantc and twitter.com/ salvationarmytc.

Salvationist February 2019 9

Photo: Jan Aasmann Størksen

ONWARD

PARTNERS Canada and Bermuda Territory Adds Two New Partner Territories The Partners in Mission campaign is The Salvation Army’s international strategy for connecting territories around the world in a practical, financial and prayerful way.

The money raised provides funding for vital infrastructure and resources that enable The Salvation Army to carry out its mission in more than 130 countries worldwide.

Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory

This year, the Canada and Bermuda Territory has added the Mozambique Territory and Bangladesh Command as partners.

The 2019 Partners in Mission campaign will focus on a variety of ministries within the Mozambique Territory and Malawi Territory. While we highlight ministry in specific territories, the funds raised are forwarded to International Headquarters and distributed according to need. All territories participate in this Self-Denial Appeal, as every Salvationist is called to support the international Salvation Army.

Last year, the Canada and Bermuda Territory raised more than $2.2 million for Partners in Mission, surpassing all previous years. In 2019, our goal is $2.3 million, and we have every confidence that this is within our reach.

Here are a few of the projects our territory has supported over and above Partners in Mission. Thank you for being a partner in the international ministry of The Salvation Army.

10 February 2019 Salvationist

Liberia and Sierra Leone Command

Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory Officers: 64 Aux-Captains: 5 Envoys: 4 Cadets: 5 Employees: 780 Corps: 41 Outposts: 4 Senior Soldiers: 788 Adherents: 443 Junior Soldiers: 88 • National children’s summer camp • Cadet training

Liberia and Sierra Leone Command Officers: 60 Aux-Captains: 4 Cadets: 14 Employees: 350 Corps: 32 Outposts: 22 Senior Soldiers: 5,235 Adherents: 312 Junior Soldiers: 919 • Support for Ebola recovery • Schools: John Gowans Junior and Senior High School; William Booth Junior and Senior High School • Emergency response to mudslides in Sierra Leone

IN MISSION

Bangladesh Command

Mozambique Territory

Mozambique Territory Officers: 56 Cadets: 6 Employees: 25 Corps: 57 Outposts: 50 Senior Soldiers: 5,636 Adherents: 48 Junior Soldiers: 1,432 • Project vehicle • Music instruments

Malawi Territory Officers: 126 Envoys: 4 Employees: 44 Corps: 81 Outposts: 71 Senior Soldiers: 8,285 Adherents: 290 Junior Soldiers: 2,586 • HIV prevention and food security • Literacy in Matapang’ombe • Integrated health and food security in Funwe • Agricultural training and farm inputs in Funwe and Matapang’ombe • Pigs and goats for orphans and vulnerable children • Food relief after floods in Karonga and Nkhootakota • Worship hall and furnishings in Monkey Bay • Project vehicle

Bangladesh Command Officers: 84 Cadets: 6 Employees: 196 Corps: 32 Outposts: 12 Senior Soldiers: 1,108 Adherents: 1,202 Junior Soldiers: 158 • Primary education at schools in Jessore • Renovation of a children’s centre in Savar • Support for corps schools and programs • Latrines for the Pechulia community • Assistance for victims of landslides in Rangamati Hill District and floods in Dinajpur and Joypurhat districts Salvationist February 2019 11

Source: The Salvation Army Year Book 2019 Mozambique and Malawi Photos: Joel Johnson; Illustration: ©switchpipipi/iStock.com

Malawi Territory

Mjr José Nharugue, training and spiritual life development secretary, prays with a man who lost his home after a cyclone.

Mesmerizing Mozambique Getting to know our newest Partners in Mission territory.

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ozambique stretches along the south-eastern coast of Africa, with palm tree-lined beaches for those seeking respite, and clear water beckoning the adventurous spirit to swim with whale sharks and manta rays. The most devout of foodies will find delicious cuisine, influenced by hundreds of years of visitors—from Arab merchants to the colonial powers that established outposts on these shores.

But this isn’t a tourism article— 12 February 2019 Salvationist

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY JOEL JOHNSON Mozambique also harbours a dark side.

Decades of conflict have led to the death of hundreds of thousands of people and displaced millions more. Natural disasters, such as cyclones, drought and severe flooding, seem to strike regularly. The HIV epidemic threatens to overwhelm the health-care system. Combined, these challenges have left many people vulnerable and in need of assistance.

Through it all, The Salvation Army in Mozambique has remained true to its purpose: to bring hope, caring and support to those who need it most. As

it’s one of the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s newest Partners in Mission, a team from the world missions department visited Mozambique last year to see the work of The Salvation Army first-hand. We were welcomed into a vibrant community where Salvationists are steadfast in worship and service.

Here are some of my most cherished images from this journey—ones that speak to me of the spirit, strength and resilience of the people, who have continued to hope when there has been so much reason to feel lost or forgotten.

At Bagamoio Corps in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, the Sunday morning service starts with marching in the Salvation Army flag.

From the corps and territorial band, to timbrels, songsters and dramatic groups, there’s a way for everyone in the corps to be involved.

With strong and committed youth, the future is bright for The Salvation Army in Mozambique.

Salvationist February 2019 13

Quality education is one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. In Mozambique, education remains severely underfunded, with the illiteracy rate at more than 60 per cent. The Salvation Army supports several schools in Mozambique to ensure that children have access to lifelong opportunity.

It’s one thing to have buildings and safe places for children to come and learn; it’s another to have skilled teachers to guide them.

Dedicated staff prepare healthy and nutritious meals for the children at Salvation Army schools, to improve concentration and focus when learning.

In February 2017, cyclone Dineo struck the southern coast of Mozambique, bringing torrential rains and strong winds to the Maxixe and Inhambane area. The Salvation Army dispatched emergency aid, helping 100 families affected by the storm. Lt-Col Brenda Murray, director of world missions, speaks with a woman sitting among the ruins of her home.

14 February 2019 Salvationist

The strong winds, flying debris and toppled trees created havoc—an estimated 20,000 homes were destroyed. This family lost everything. Both parents are blind. With limited opportunity for work, they struggled to rebuild. They were given assistance in building a new and stronger home.

This woman was in her home when a large tree collapsed on it. She was able to crawl out from underneath it, unscathed, when help arrived. The Salvation Army provided her with materials so she could repair her home. Today, she receives regular visits from the local corps.

The Salvation Army is growing in the Inhambane and Tofo Beach area. The corps officer in Tofo walks to work every day. His presence in the community is a reminder of the help and hope The Salvation Army brings in a time of need.

Salvationist February 2019 15

A-maize-ing The Salvation Army in Malawi trains farmers in conservation agriculture.

Project officer Ibrahim Thawani (second from right) with farmers in Funwe, Malawi, who have received training in conservation agriculture

I

n Monkey Bay, Malawi, Lieutenant Granger Phiri leads our Canadian team around a local garden, or munda as it’s known in Chichewa, the country’s national language.

“I was born in a farming family. I thought I knew it all, but The Salvation Army’s agricultural training is proof that learning does not end,” he says. “All my life I’ve been farming, but at harvest I never yielded anything that could match my efforts.”

He points to two maize plots side by side and explains how in one, the farmer planted in the traditional way and, in the other, used methods he learned from The Salvation Army’s agricultural training. The two plots couldn’t look more different. “Now, many people stop at the garden wondering how the maize looks so beautiful,” says Lieutenant Phiri.

When friends and neighbours ask the farmer how he did it, he tells them about conservation agriculture.

Also known as “Farming God’s Way,” conservation agriculture is a set of prin16 February 2019 Salvationist

ciples that minimize the disruption of the soil structure, composition and natural biodiversity. This method involves crop rotation, mulching and zero tillage, which have been proven to increase crop yields. Conservation agriculture is also environmentally sustainable and produces crops that are more resilient to the effects of climate change, by improving the retention of moisture, increasing soil fertility and reducing soil erosion, disease and pests.

Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, is one of the world’s most impoverished nations. While 80 per cent of the population participates in subsistence farming, many face food shortages due to low crop yields, drought and f looding. The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a set of 17 goals to improve social and economic development by 2030—are at the core of The Salvation Army’s international work. While the Army’s international projects tackle many of these issues, including health,

education and gender equality, its agricultural training program in Malawi primarily focuses on SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Leaving Monkey Bay, our team travels half an hour south to the remote village of Funwe. On the way, we pass a lake that has completely dried up, evidence of how climate change is affecting this arid, mountainous region. Increased drought and flooding are partially responsible for the farmers’ low crop yields, as are years of human activity that have depleted the soil’s natural vegetation.

Accompanying us to Funwe is Salvation Army project officer Ibrahim Thawani, who has been working with the community for two years. He has overseen agricultural training for 264 families and, when we arrive, introduces us to some of the community members who have participated in the program.

Before receiving training, Haswell and Sinjilireni struggled to put food on the table and couldn’t afford to send their children to school. Able to produce only two to three 50-kilogram bags of maize each harvest, they had only enough food

Lts Granger and Tapiwa Phiri

Photos: Joel Johnson

BY RUTH HOBBIS

A farmer stands in her maize plot. “Malawians have the in-born drive to always work hard, but our sacrifices and efforts weren’t being rewarded,” says Lt Granger Phiri, CO, Monkey Bay Corps. “Now we’ve learned how to farm the most natural way … and a miracle has happened in our gardens”

to last three months. For the remainder of the year, they survived by selling charcoal at the local market or relying on government handouts. Unfortunately, this is a common story in Funwe and other remote communities in Malawi, where school dropout rates are high and many struggle to get enough to eat.

Now fully trained in conservation agriculture, Haswell and Sinjilireni are able to harvest more than 20 50-kilogram bags of maize—10 times what they produced before.

“Their lives have completely changed,” says Thawani. “They have food throughout the year and are able to support their family.” Haswell and Sinjilireni’s children have been enrolled at the local school and the couple plans to increase their plot so they can sell produce at their local market. With regular income, they’ll be able to cover their basic needs, such as food, clothing, school supplies and medicine. “I’ve seen the transformation I dreamed about when the project started two years ago,” says Thawani. “In Funwe, people are smiling and working together.”

Donations to The Salvation Army’s Gifts of Hope program “Hope Through

Farming” gift option helped cover the costs of training, as well as seeds, manure and tools. Other gifts, such as ox carts, water and sanitation, and bush ambulances, have allowed The Salvation Army to offer holistic support that benefits the entire community. All of these practical supports have been made possible thanks to donations from individuals in Canada.

As each family in Funwe stands before their plot, it’s easy to see the pride in their faces as they show us their tall, sturdy and green stalks of maize.

“Malawians have the in-born drive to always work hard, but our sacrifices and efforts weren’t being rewarded. I was doing it all, but I didn’t know how to farm God’s way,” explains Lieutenant Phiri. “Now we’ve learned how to farm the most natural way, using manure and without making ridges, and a miracle has happened in our gardens.”

Back in Monkey Bay, he gestures between the two vastly different plots in the garden: one flourishing, the other dull and dry. “I don’t need any more proof than this.”

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

Salvationist February 2019 17

Call and commitment Sunday challenges Salvationists to consider officership.

BY MAJOR JENNIFER HALE

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have never been much of a gardener. Every spring our daughter looks forward to going to the garden store to pick up some flowers to plant in a pot that we bought for her.

During our time in Bermuda, a kind soldier planted flowers at the front of the corps building and then left us to care for them. It seemed simple enough.

Water them and keep them from being overcrowded with weeds. The problem was that I was too embarrassed to let her know that I can hardly tell the difference between a weed and a flower!

Despite my inability to care for a garden, the imagery of the vine and gardener in John 15 has always appealed to me. As Jesus beautifully describes the trimming and pruning of the vine at the hand of the gardener, he encourages the disciples to remain in him, to stay intimately connected to him, so they can produce the fruit that only comes as a result of love and obedience. Jesus says: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last” (John 15:13).

18 February 2019 Salvationist

Why Not You? On February 3, Salvationists across the Canada and Bermuda Territory will focus on this verse as they participate in call and commitment Sunday under the “Kingdom Choices—Why Not You?” theme. Have you considered what God’s kingdom choice is for your life? What fruit has he called you to bear? Is it possible that he has called you to Salvation Army officership?

Call and commitment Sunday is a day set aside to challenge us all to go deeper in our walk with the Lord and to pray about how God’s kingdom priorities are being accomplished through us. It’s a Sunday when the worship, preaching and testimonies are focused on God’s plan and purpose for each of our lives and the Army. It’s an occasion for every Salvationist to seriously consider God’s call and to hear that there is a place for them to serve him through the Army.

To help with the planning of call and commitment Sunday, a variety of resources, including creative readings, prayers, worship resources and Bible study material, have been sent to corps

Questions and Answers Last year, the territory launched the “Not Called?” candidate recruitment campaign which continues to give new life and vision to officership as it highlights needs in the world around us and encourages people to partner with the Army’s message of gospel transformation by accepting God’s call. For some, the best way to live out that call is through officership in The Salvation Army.

As part of the campaign, the candidates’ office has released video testimonies on our website and Facebook page of individuals telling their stories of God’s call and the different ways it is being worked out in their lives. Salvationist continues the “Not Called?” series highlighting those who have made the commitment to pursue officership. Also available is a “Not Called?” pamphlet containing questions to start conversations about salvation, sanctification and service.

The Greatest Need As corps across the territory set aside time this month to highlight the call to officership, I invite you to pray for a great response. Consider God’s purpose for you in his kingdom plan. Get involved at your local corps or centre to learn more about the Army’s work. Talk to your corps officer or divisional secretary for candidates to explore the possibility of officership. And remember the words of Christ: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last” (John 15:13).

I believe our best days are yet to come, but the need for covenanted officers in our territory is great. Opportunities for advancement in the salvation war are endless. Truly, there is no greater time to be an officer in The Salvation Army.

Major Jennifer Hale is the secretary for candidates in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Call & Commitment Sunday February 3rd, 2019

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Download the campaign poster at SAcandidates.ca.

Photo: © AscentXmedia/iStock.com

Go and Bear Fruit

officers and are available online at SAcandidates.ca.

NOT CALLED?

Listening to My Heart I’ve always felt officership was a fulfilment of God’s plan for my life.

BY LT-COLONEL GENEVERA VINCENT

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henever I read Jeremiah 1:5—“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart”—I think, That’s me!

This may sound strange to some, but I always say that my decision to become an officer was a childhood calling. Whenever I was asked what I was going to be when I grew up, I always said, “I am going to be a Salvation Army officer.” Of course, at that age, I had no idea what that entailed but I firmly believe my calling came as a child and my whole life—as a child, teenager and adult—has been a working out and a living out of that calling.

A Life Plan I grew up in the small community of Monkstown, N.L., the second of four children. My mother was a stay-at-home mom while my dad was a fisherman.

We were never a financially rich family but our home never lacked in love. My mother has been a devoted Christian since she was a child and I grew up believing that God would provide—my mother said it many times!

He has always been a part of my life.

I don’t remember a time when I was not aware of God and his love for me.

I remember the excitement I felt when I invited Jesus into my life as a sevenyear-old and started my own personal relationship with him. This relationship has always been central to my life. I look back on faithful corps officers and corps members with much gratitude for helping shape my life and bringing me to where I am today. They were encouragers and models of how Christians should live, and I learned much.

From my earliest days, I was a part of all corps activities and my relationship

Lt-Col Genevera Vincent is the divisional director of women’s ministries in the N.L. Div

While I have doubted my own abilities, I have never doubted God’s calling. with Jesus continued to grow. As such, the decision to become a senior soldier came very naturally, and was not forced on me by my parents or corps officers.

I embraced the Soldier’s Covenant, and while I was and still am not perfect, I believed that by God’s grace, I would do my best to live it out.

After grade school, I moved to Arnold’s Cove, N.L., to complete high school. There, I was fortunate to move in

with an aunt and uncle who became my second parents for those three years.

Devoted Christians and strong Salvationists, they taught me much about faithful Christian living. Again, I encountered people at the corps who were deeply concerned about the young people and encouraged us to embrace ministry and made us feel that we had something to offer.

When I entered the College for Officer Training in St. John’s, N.L., in 1984, much like soldiership, it was a very natural thing for me. I believed I was simply fulfilling what God had planned for me all my life. If I needed confirmation of that, my father became a Christian during my first year there!

Did I feel adequate? No. Was I a little afraid of what officership was all about?

Yes. But my faith was simple enough to believe that if God called, he would equip. While that may sound cliché, I still believe it.

No Doubts Thirty-five years ago this coming September, I entered the training college as a member of the Proclaimers of the Gospel Session. I am as convinced today of my calling as I was then. During my 33 years as an officer, there have been many joys and a few disappointments along the way. And there are times I am struck with a sense of inadequacy. My confidence has been shaken a time or two over the years, but I can honestly say that I have never questioned my calling.

While I have doubted my own abilities, I have never doubted God’s calling.

To those who ponder the decision to become an officer, I say, listen to your heart and to those encouragers around you, in your family and your corps. You won’t be disappointed.

Salvationist February 2019 19

The Gathering Place At Moncton’s community and family services, relationships are the key to transformation.

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

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one of its kind in the area. More than providing food, the program gives staff an opportunity to meet clients one-onone in a safe, respectful environment.

“People are looking for someone who cares, who will put time and effort into hearing them out and getting them the help that they need,”

A Second Chance

hen people walk into the Army’s CFS, Robert Mombourquette is often the first friendly face there to greet them. When he isn’t volunteering his time in the kitchen at The Gathering Place, he is meeting people at the door, giving directions and answering questions, or helping with administrative work.

“It’s a good place to be,” he says. “I look forward to coming here in the morning, and when I leave at night, I go back with a smile.”

Mombourquette has been volunteering with The Salvation Army for about two years, the first half of which was done while he was still incarcerated. He became connected to the Army through Positive Lifestyles, a reintegration program offered by Greenfield House, a Salvation Army halfway home, for people serving a life sentence.

“When you’re inside, you take a lot of programs, so when I heard about Positive Lifestyles, I thought it was just another program,” he recalls. “But I enjoyed it so much, I did it twice, back-to-back!”

Through Positive Lifestyles, Mombourquette connected with Alex Greening, then executive director of Greenfield, who suggested he participate in a pilot project that would give lifers an opportunity to gain work experience in the community.

“When Alex asked me to work here, my view of The Salvation Army at the time was that it was another organization looking for money,” Mombourquette recalls. “But when I came, they were just starting their holiday camp program and I saw a whole different side of things. I couldn’t believe what they were doing for the kids. It was an eye-opener.”

For 14 months, Mombourquette volunteered with the breakfast program every Tuesday and Thursday, and though he was released last April, he hasn’t stopped. In fact, he’s often at The Salvation Army five days a week.

“From the first day that he arrived here, it was a good fit,” says Burkett. “We’ve become close with Robert—we’ve adopted him—and now that he’s out and reintegrating back into the community, he’s got more time to give. Our clients love him—he relates to them very easily. He’s easy to talk to and he’s got a 20 February 2019 Salvationist

says Natasha Burkett, executive director. “It doesn’t matter what program we’re running—we’re connecting sincerely with people and building relationships.”

Three men whose lives have been transformed by their connection with CFS share their stories:

big heart to give back to the community.”

Reflecting how much he is appreciated by the CFS staff, Mombourquette received a special gift from Val McClusky, who runs the breakfast program, upon his release.

“About six months before I got out, Val asked me what my favourite colour was,” Mombourquette says. “I told her it was red and didn’t think much of it. But on my first day back here, she brought me the most beautiful handmade quilt I’ve seen.

It blew me away. I couldn’t believe it.”

Mombourquette says he never expected he would find this kind of acceptance after serving a life sentence. “A lot of people will judge you on that one incident, and they can’t see past it,” he says.

“We all deserve a second chance. And I can definitely say this place has given me one.”

Photos: Kristin Ostensen

In Moncton, N.B., The Salvation Army’s community and family services (CFS) on King Street is a beacon of hope for people who are struggling.

While the Army offers many services, most clients connect with CFS through The Gathering Place, a weekday breakfast program that is the only

Robert Mombourquette cooks and serves French toast at The Gathering Place

“I thank The Salvation Army for changing my life.”

—Brian Ingersoll

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Into the Light

hen Brian Ingersoll left the drug game in Moncton two years ago, he was one of the most notorious dealers in town.

“My house was like a drive-through,” he says. “It was the busiest place in the city.”

He had been selling drugs, on and off, since he was 14 years old, but drugs and violence were always a part of his life.

“My father was a biker and my whole family was doing illegal things, so I was born into that lifestyle,” he shares. “By the time I was nine, I was being shot up with coke and speed, so my mom and grandmother arranged for me to leave. They gave me $45 and away I went. I ended up in Fredericton, living on the street.”

His situation in Fredericton was no better. After a year of living on the street, he was taken in by a sex worker and developed biker gang connections, becoming incarcerated as a juvenile for the first time at 12, and as an adult at 16. “I’ve been in jail a lot,” Ingersoll admits ruefully. “All combined, more than 30 years.”

Up until 2016, that was the only life he knew. But like so many others, Ingersoll found more than a meal at The Gathering Place—he found a new beginning.

“I was at the point where I was killing myself,” he says. “I was living on the street, doing drugs, going to jail constantly.

The people at The Salvation Army have helped me go from that, to who I am now—a complete 180 from where I was before.”

Turning Point When Ingersoll speaks about his early life, even decades later, he becomes emotional, reflecting the deep-seated trauma he is still healing from today.

“The streets aren’t very nice,” he says. “That’s a world most people don’t see, they’re blind to it, so they don’t know how vicious it is.”

Ingersoll had his first serious run-in with the law at the age

of 17 when he took the lives of two men who brutally raped a close female friend of his. He received a lengthy prison sentence as a result of those actions, but that time in jail would plant the first seeds of faith in his life.

“I learned how to count because of money I got selling drugs, but I couldn’t read or write,” he says.

During that period of incarceration, two friends offered to help him become literate. “They brought the Bible out and taught me how to read,” Ingersoll says, “but it was just a book to me at that point.”

He came back to the Bible with fresh eyes in 2010 while he was living in Halifax. “I started watching a Christian television program, and wrote to the church, asking for Bible studies to help me understand what I was reading,” he says.

Through that contact, Ingersoll connected with a local Wesleyan pastor, started attending services and was baptized.

“I was pretty happy,” he recalls. “I started to change my way of thinking.”

Before long, however, he fell back into dealing drugs. “I was asking myself, how am I going to change my way of making money? Because no one would hire me,” Ingersoll notes. “I put out more than 100 resumés and couldn’t get a job.”

But being a high-level drug trafficker came with a cost— Ingersoll still bears the scar from the day he was shot in the shoulder while walking down the street. By 2016, he had finally had enough.

“A young woman brought her baby, 14 months old, to my house and wanted to pawn the kid for drugs, and then come back and pick up the kid when she paid for the dope,” he remembers. “I lost it. I just couldn’t believe it.”

Ingersoll told the woman to leave and alerted a friend of his who worked in social services, who arranged for the child to be rescued.

It was a turning point for Ingersoll—but what would he do instead, once he left that life behind? He found the answer at The Salvation Army.

Salvationist February 2019 21

“People are looking for someone who cares,” says Natasha Burkett, with Mombourquette

New Outlook Ingersoll first connected with the Army’s CFS six years ago, after he moved to Moncton to be closer to his daughter.

“When I came here, I had just gotten out of jail and I was on the street,” he says. “I heard about this place and started coming for breakfast.”

Even though he was still selling drugs, Ingersoll developed a deep respect for The Salvation Army. “I never sold dope around here—I was totally against it. This was not the place for that,” he says. “When I came here, I had a peace of mind. It gave me a different outlook on life, something I’d never seen before.”

That new perspective came through the way he was treated by the staff and the conversations he had with them about faith.

“We’d talk about the Bible every time I came in, and I would ask questions about things that I didn’t understand,” Ingersoll says.

“The staff here don’t look at you like you’re a bum,” he continues. “They actually care for people and they want to help. It comes from their hearts.”

One of the most significant ways the CFS staff has helped Ingersoll in the last year is by driving him to Saint John, N.B.—a three-hour round trip—on two occasions so that he could have open-heart surgery. “The care that they put out to people is just phenomenal,” he reflects. “That’s the only word for it.”

“Brian is a great guy,” says Burkett. “We’ve helped him in practical ways, like breakfast, laundry and clothing vouchers.

But more importantly for Brian, I think he’s found a place where he can come and talk if he needs to. He’s made friends here.”

Through these experiences, to his surprise, Ingersoll developed something he had never had before. “My whole life, I had no conscience,” he says. “My life meant nothing, so what did somebody else’s mean? Absolutely nothing. And now I end up having a conscience. I said, ‘Where did this come from?’ I didn’t want it!”

22 February 2019 Salvationist

Special Connection Ingersoll had not attended church since his time in Halifax.

But when he learned that the CFS staff could pick him up and take him to Moncton Citadel Community Church for Sunday services, he jumped at the opportunity.

“It was excellent,” he shares of his first time there. “The people there are straight up. They are godly, Christian people.

The worship, the music, the preaching—it’s all good. I recommend The Salvation Army to anybody that asks me about church.”

Ingersoll has been attending the corps for about a year and a half—Todd Benoit, community ministries worker at CFS, picks him up on Sundays—and is growing in his walk with Christ.

“I’ve gone from not believing in it whatsoever, and not even caring about it, to the point where I’m handing out Bibles to people on the street, talking to people about Jesus,” he says.

“I think Brian’s found a special connection at Moncton Citadel,” says Burkett. “Our corps has opened themselves up to him and taken him in.”

Ingersoll agrees. “Being a part of The Salvation Army means a lot to me,” he says. “I feel I owe these guys my life because they’ve helped bring me out of the pit of hell, into the light.

“They’ve shown me what caring for people is all about,” he continues. “They’ve taught me about forgiveness, which I didn’t do before. And they’ve helped me put a lot of things in my past away, which is really important because I’ve got quite a pile of things.”

For Burkett, watching Ingersoll’s transformation over the past two years has been incredible. “He’s grown exponentially, in a personal way and a spiritual way,” she says. “He’s had so many challenges in his life, including his recent health concerns, but he’s such a blessing to have around.”

“I thank The Salvation Army for changing my life,” Ingersoll concludes. “I can’t put it into words how much they mean to me, and what they’ve done for me.”

Mark Melanson and Todd Benoit share a moment at the Petitcodiac River, a short walk from CFS

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Support Network

had everything—a $500,000 home, three cars, a beautiful girlfriend and five dogs, but in reality, I had nothing.”

Behind the veneer of his successful life, Mark Melanson was struggling with depression and alcoholism. And six years ago, everything fell apart, leaving him homeless.

Melanson was a Red Seal chef, working at a restaurant in Moncton, when he met his girlfriend and his life began to go downhill.

“I always said that nothing would ever come between me and my kids, but she didn’t have any kids and was jealous of the love that I was giving them,” Melanson shares. “I started to neglect my kids for this relationship—it got to the point where I wasn’t seeing them for months at a time—and I started deteriorating. I was so distraught.”

Melanson had been a social drinker for years, but as he became more and more depressed, he started to drink heavily and couldn’t work anymore. When his relationship with his girlfriend finally ended, he was a broken man. “We’d become codependent on each other,” he reflects. “My identity was all about her.”

Once he was living in shelters, Melanson was shoplifting to support his addiction and started getting in trouble with the law. About a year after he became homeless, he was convicted on 10 charges and sentenced to three months in jail. “I had to call my family from the jail to tell them,” he remembers. “It was the worst, most devastating period of my life, going to jail for the first time and telling my kids—it broke their hearts.”

Melanson had his last run-in with the law in September 2017.

“That’s when it shifted,” he says. “I thought, I’m 50 years old, this is it, I’m done. I’m not going to go any further in life, I’m not going to develop any relationship with anybody, especially my kids, if I don’t change.”

It was around that same time that Melanson became more

involved with The Salvation Army. He first connected with CFS about five years ago through The Gathering Place breakfast program. “When you’re homeless, you find out where free meals are really quick,” he says.

“Initially, my relationship with The Salvation Army was based on needs—clothing, food, the basics for survival,” he continues. “It took a few years but over time I bonded with the staff.”

“Mark was someone who didn’t have a network of support, and so The Salvation Army was there for him,” says Burkett.

“We didn’t ask too many questions, we didn’t judge. He came in, used our services, and built relationships.”

Melanson is now working full-time, but when he was participating in rehabilitative programs and getting back on his feet, he spent many hours at CFS. “I would come in here in the mornings and I’d hang out for a couple hours after everybody left, just to talk,” he says.

“Loneliness doesn’t breed good things, not for anybody recovering from addictions.”

Through the influence of his relationships with the CFS staff, Melanson also started attending Moncton Citadel Community Church. “To get over addictions, you need more than medication and keeping busy,” he says. “There’s a spiritual void and you need Jesus. That’s when you start seeing miracles happen in your life.”

For Melanson, the corps has been a spiritually nourishing and welcoming community. “You feel actual love from the people—the soldiers, everybody there. You feel it.”

As he continues to grow in faith, Melanson says The Salvation Army is the right place for him. “God is going to guide you, he’s going to put you exactly where you’re supposed to be. And this is where he sees a surrender that I work on every day.”

Salvationist February 2019 23

Borrowing Trouble Are payday loans ethical?

BY MAJOR DAVID McNEILLY

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had a bus to catch and I wasn’t sure I could make it. Then, in mild panic, I realized I didn’t have money for the fare. Fortunately, I work in an office and was able to borrow the princely sum of $2.25. In cities across the territory, people in financial straits experience panic, even dread—but their needs are far more serious than bus fare.

Collectively, we are drowning in a sea of debt. Statistics show that levels of consumer debt are at unprecedented levels. A recent review of local and national news reveals that our debt regularly tops headlines. Yet it seems that more credit is always available from somewhere, even when individuals or households appear to have reached their limit. Cue cash advance services, or payday loans.

What is a payday loan? It is a shortterm loan, for a fee, for an amount usually under $1,000. The term of the loan is often only 14 days. Loan agreements are dependent on a secured repayment method, such as a post-dated cheque or direct bank withdrawal, before the loan 24 February 2019 Salvationist

is granted. Additional fees are applied if the repayment terms are not met.

Payday loans can be an important source of short-term funds for the unexpectedly cash-strapped consumer.

The key is to use them only as a last resort because of their high cost. Here’s how much a $200 loan would cost if the borrower didn’t repay the loan on the due date and only repaid it after three months: $200 (principal) + $30 (initial fee for the 14-day loan term) + $40 (default charge for not paying on time) + $40.50 (three months’ interest at an annual rate of 60 per cent) = $310.50.

This is equivalent to a 221 per cent annual interest rate.

Payday loan providers are charging exorbitantly high rates and profiting on the backs of the vulnerable. This is why this industry has earned the label predatory lending. It makes me wonder why ethical businesses, such as the big banks, are not stepping in to provide financial products that offer alternatives for those with few options, while still

mitigating their own risks. Corporations must do more.

So what should we do? I suggest a three-pronged approach. First, greater monitoring of predatory lenders is necessary. In Australia, it has been suggested that debt payments, as a percentage of income, should be capped at five per cent for those on social assistance or in low-income brackets. Our government should determine and adopt such a limit and then enforce it.

Second, we must find ways to increase financial literacy. Early education—such as mandatory financial management courses in elementary and high school —is key. For children and youth above a certain age, a small monthly government grant would provide practical experience in managing their own finances. Giving people the opportunity to learn and understand consequences when the risks are small would be highly preventative.

Third, we need to come alongside people facing financial management challenges or crises, through emotional support, coaching and resource assistance. The Salvation Army already offers this type of help through its client management relationships, programs such as Pathway of Hope and rent- or utilitiesassistance programs.

People find themselves in difficult situations for a variety of reasons— unexpected health or family challenges, mental health issues, issues related to age or loss of employment. The Salvation Army partners with individuals to find practical solutions in the context of helping relationships. We must continue to grow in expertise in this area to make the biggest possible difference.

In conclusion, I offer two quotes from John Wesley that can help guide our actions. First a word to those who find themselves in a vulnerable financial state: “Earn all you can, give all you can, save all you can.” If that is our direction, we will avoid most money problems.

And a word for those who do not find themselves in financial distress: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” In other words, help others.

Volunteer at a Salvation Army program, listen and be part of the solution.

Major David McNeilly is the corps ministries secretary in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Illustration: ©sorbetto/iStock.com

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

FRESH IDEAS

From left, Terri Lynn Ralph, Sheryl Noel, Mjr Lorraine Abrahamse, Kerry Chaytor-Crummey, Blair Rogers, Susan Pardy, Arlene Riche, Douglas Noel, Ivan Hynes, Mjr Peter Rowe, Rhodie Anne Woodland, Yolanda Rideout and Christan Murphy take part in the adult beginners’ band

Back to Basics It’s never too late to join the banding ministry at St. John’s Temple.

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n youth Sunday last April, a brave group of beginners walked onto the platform at St. John’s Temple, N.L., to make their debut as a brass band. There was an undercurrent of nervousness among the musicians, who were no ordinary beginners’ band.

“Learning something new, as an adult, is stressful enough,” says their bandmaster, Christan Murphy. “But then to actually perform it in front of other people—the stress was high.”

The band need not have worried.

“It was really good,” says Major Peter Rowe, corps officer and member of the band. “There were a couple of sour notes when we first started, but by the time we got through, we were all playing flawlessly.”

Of course, it helped that the group had the entire congregation supporting them. “I think we got more applause than the kids did,” Major Rowe laughs.

The adult beginners’ band is a new initiative at St. John’s Temple, having started in January 2018 thanks to the grassroots efforts of various people at the corps—particularly Murphy, who also leads the junior band.

“Many parents take their children to junior band and then wait around for a couple hours,” he says. “Last year, people started asking, ‘Is there anything for adults?’ ” Murphy ran the idea past Steve White, director of the youth banding

program, and Major Rowe, both of whom were supportive. “A few weeks later, we had a program,” says Murphy.

“At first, I wasn’t sure how it would go,” he continues. “To be honest, I thought we’d only get three or four people. When 20 people signed up, it was like, ‘Oh, my goodness!’ ” Major Rowe was one of the adults who signed up right away. Though he could play the piano accordion, he had never learned a brass instrument. “I had opportunities to learn over the years, but didn’t have the courage,” he says.

Members of the adult beginners’ band range in age from teenagers to people in their late 50s, and come from various backgrounds. Some, like Major Rowe, have previous musical experience but are new to brass banding, while others have no musical experience at all.

Given that variety of knowledge and skills, Murphy’s approach to the band is similar to his approach to teaching the young beginners. “We started with the basics—teaching them how to breathe, the mouthpiece, how to play the C scale, fingering and so on—and are building from there,” he says.

Over the past year, Murphy has seen incredible progress from the group, which is now learning to play hymn tunes. “Members who needed prompting on fingering or reading notes last year don’t require that same type of assistance now,” he says. “So we’re moving on to more complicated music.”

“I think the biggest thing was for everyone to find their courage,” says Major Rowe. “Everybody was intimidated at first, but as people found their place and got comfortable, it’s incredible how far we’ve come.”

Unlike typical beginners’ bands, each practice includes time for devotions.

“One of the main goals of the group was to have that time of reflection and sharing,” says Murphy. “Our corps is big on small-group ministry, so I consider it a kind of small group.”

Members of the group take turns leading devotions. “People are getting more comfortable with one another.

They are sharing from their heart and then we’re praying for each other,” says Major Rowe. “As the corps officer, I’ve been encouraged by what I’ve been hearing.”

Along with learning music and growing spiritually, the band offers opportunities for fellowship. “When you’re in a congregation with hundreds of people, it’s good to have a small group that you’re comfortable with—we’re becoming a family within the family,” says Major Rowe.

Looking ahead, Murphy hopes the group members will continue to grow musically and eventually become band leaders themselves.

“The response to this group, among the members and the congregation, has been so positive,” he says. “It has certainly blessed me.”

Salvationist February 2019 25

Photo: John Pritchett

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

GRACE NOTES

I Am Not a Proverbs 31 Woman And you don’t have to be either.

I

cannot boast of knowing more than half a dozen [women], in the whole range of my acquaintance, that are really accomplished,” declares Mr. Darcy to Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice. “A woman must have a thorough knowledge of music, singing, drawing, dancing, all the modern languages, to deserve the word.”

To which Elizabeth Bennet responds, “I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any.”

We laugh at the banter between the two characters. Jane Austen fans will know that Elizabeth Bennet wins Mr. Darcy’s affections, despite not measuring up to his standard of accomplishments.

Women want to be like Elizabeth, confident in our worth regardless of our abilities.

And yet, so many Christian women believe they need to be accomplished to be of value. Much of this sentiment stems from the overutilization and misunderstanding of Proverbs 31:10-31. A poem most likely written by King Solomon, the passage seems at first glance to be a lengthy list of all of the attributes a woman must possess to be held in high esteem.

Proverbs 31 is arguably one of the most-used passages in women’s ministries today. “Proverbs 31 Ministries” boasts nearly four million likes on Facebook, while bestselling author Donna Partow was able to successfully market Becoming the Woman God Wants Me to Be: A 90-Day Guide to Living the Proverbs 31 Life in 2008, and then re26 February 2019 Salvationist

release it as an audio book in 2017 due to its continued success.

This oft-quoted passage suggests that a woman of noble character “selects wool and flax and works with eager hands; she gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family; she considers a field and buys it; she plants a vineyard; she makes coverings for her bed; she speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue; her children call her blessed; her husband praises her” (see Proverbs 31:10-31).

I am not a Proverbs 31 woman.

At least, not in the way the western church seems to utilize it—as a job description for all women.

When it comes to sewing, I have two left hands. Of those two hands, not one has a green thumb. I’m average, at best, in the kitchen, and I order take-out more nights than I care to admit. There are moments when bitterness is on my tongue, not wisdom. And while I love my family dearly, there are definitely days when my children are less than co-operative, and keeping romance alive in my marriage is hard work. I am no domestic superhero. Does this mean that I do not measure up in the eyes of God? If I were to only focus on the western view of Proverbs 31 for the measure of my worth, I would always feel inadequate and unloved. Thankfully, there is more written in the Bible on a woman’s worth than this one chapter.

Jesus met with many women during his time of earthly ministry, and not many of them would fit the description

in Proverbs 31. He addressed a Samaritan woman at the well (see John 4), showed compassion to an adulterous woman (see John 8), healed a hemorrhaging woman (see Matthew 9) and acknowledged a widow (see Mark 12). He praised Mary not for tending to her household duties, but rather for sitting at his feet listening to what he said (see Luke 10). Jesus did not seek out accomplished women.

Rather, he met with women who were tired, weary, defeated and broken. He acknowledged them as worthy. He cared for them. He loved them.

Jesus’ actions are in keeping with the original intention of Proverbs 31. In the male-centred society of the ancient Jewish people, this passage would have come as a breath of fresh air, highlighting the importance of women in society.

Rather than suggesting women must aspire to this unattainable standard, its intention was to celebrate women of virtue, not simply women of talent.

By loving women the way he did, Jesus spoke volumes about the importance of all women in God’s kingdom.

Sisters, we do not need to be Proverbs 31 women to be loved by Jesus. He did not come to meet only with those of us who are accomplished, those of us who are perfect. If you are feeling worthless, or inadequate as a wife or a mother, remember this. Jesus loves and celebrates you.

Captain Laura Van Schaick is the corps officer at The Salvation Army, A Community Church in Prince Albert, Sask.

Photo: © KevinCarden/Lightstock.com

BY CAPTAIN LAURA VAN SCHAICK

PEOPLE & PLACES

NEW LISKEARD, ONT.—Christine Thomson is recognized for 20 years of faithful service as an employee at the thrift store in New Liskeard. Celebrating with her are Carolyn Wheeldon, store manager, and Mjr Warrick Pilgrim, CO, Temiskaming CC. HUNTSVILLE, ONT.—The Salvation Army in Huntsville is grateful for the community support it received during this past year’s Christmas effort. Thanks to the kindness of the local Rotary Club, 250 hampers were filled with nonperishable food items. While the process of sorting and packing can take up to four days, with the help of the Rotary Club and other volunteers, the job was completed in just one day. The generosity of the community continued when an anonymous donor provided storage space for the hampers until they were distributed, Hunters Bay Radio donated 275 turkeys with all the trimmings, and the Huntsville Fire Department collected non-perishable food items through Project Porch Light. Townspeople were invited to leave a bag of food outside their door, with the porch light on, and firefighters collected the items and delivered them to the Army’s food bank. Mjr Darren Wiseman, CO and community ministries officer, Huntsville Corps, shares a moment with members of the Rotary Club.

DRUMHELLER, ALTA.—When Connect First Credit Union challenged its branches to use $500 to make a difference in their communities this past Christmas, Drumheller Chinook Financial organized a food drive for The Salvation Army.

The team delivered posters and boxes for the donated items to 35 local businesses as part of their “Fill the Sleigh” challenge. With the assistance of Norma Debernardo of Rare Rides, a horse-drawn wagon was used to deliver the boxes to the Army. In fact, so much food was donated that two pickup trucks were also needed to transport the items. Money remaining from the initial $500 was used to purchase food still needed by the Army after the donated food had been sorted.

WHAT’S NEW WITH YOU? Share the great things happening in your part of the territory. Send us your news and photos highlighting the many ways the Army is living out its mission.

• Set your digital camera at the highest quality/size setting. Photos taken with a smartphone are typically not suitable for printing in the magazine.

• Make sure the pictures are in focus and not too dark.

• Email the original photo file as an attachment to salvationist@can. salvationarmy.org (TIFF, Photoshop EPS or JPG; resolution of 300 ppi preferred).

• Ensure that the people in the photo are aware that their picture may be used in print and/or online. Photo release forms are available from the editorial department.

• Identify everyone in the photo, including their position or responsibility in your ministry.

• Be creative and add some originality to your photos. Help us to portray your ministry in a fresh and exciting way.

Salvationist February 2019 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES SPRINGDALE, N.L.—Alma Anstey was born to Salvationist parents in Springdale, N.L., in 1926. Alma became a Christian in her early years, and recommitted her life to Christ and was reinstated as a senior soldier in 1957.

She enjoyed being involved in corps ministries as a Sunday school teacher and songster. As a member of the league of mercy (now community care ministries), she visited the sick and elderly in the community, bringing them cheer and The War Cry. Alma was a life member of the home league and attended faithfully until her health began to fail. In 1970, she became a member of the Fellowship of the Silver Star. Alma displayed hospitality to strangers who came to Springdale via the coastal boats that serviced the surrounding areas for doctor and business appointments. She is sadly missed by her sister, Clara Murphy; sons Everett (Edna), Heward (Carmen), Lloyd (Audene), Lindy (Lottie) and Brian (Sharon); daughters Major Bernice Elliott, Major Clara, Barbara, Pansy (Don Fudge), Judy (Ches Baker) and Roxanne (Kevin Stride); daughter-in-law, Molly Foss; 33 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

SURREY, B.C.—Elsie M. Meyerhoff (nee Keddy) was born in New Minas, N.S., and early in life attended the nearby Kentville Corps. Elsie entered the College for Officer Training in Toronto in 1958 as a member of the Pioneers Session. Upon commissioning, she was appointed to Wallaceburg Corps, Ont. Elsie married Lieutenant Jakob Meyerhoff in 1960, and they served together at Elliott Lake Corps and Byersville (Peterborough) Corps in Ontario. In 1964, the Meyerhoffs were appointed to the Armdale (Halifax) Corps. It was during that time when Jake felt called to the medical field, and in 1972, he graduated as a doctor from Dalhousie University. Elsie, along with her husband and two sons, remained active in the Army. Eventually moving to Surrey, the family attended New Westminster Corps, B.C., and then Cariboo Hill Temple in Burnaby, B.C. Elsie was active in various ministries, but is remembered especially as the songster sergeant in the Cariboo Hill Temple Songsters. Her keen interest in people was evident as she ministered to the spiritual needs of colleagues and acquaintances.

Predeceased by her husband, Jake, she is lovingly remembered by sons Douglas (Glenys) and Gregory (Tanya); sister, Major Elizabethe (Betty) Janes; and their families.

GAZETTE INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Apr 1—Comr Margaret Siamoya, TC/TPWM, Kenya East Tty; Cols Richard/Janet Munn, directors, International Social Justice Commission; Lt-Cols Samuel/Philomina Oklah, TC/TPWM, Uganda Tty, with rank of col; Lt-Cols Simon/Zipporah Mbuthu, CS/TSWM, Kenya East Tty; Lt-Cols Ian/Wendy Swan, TC/TPWM, Zambia Tty, with rank of col; Lt-Cols Kong Chew (Bob)/Teoh Gim Leng (Wendy) Lee, OC/CPWM, Hong Kong and Macau Cmd; May 1—Mjrs Rafael/Karina Giusti, GS/CSWM, Spain and Portugal Cmd TERRITORIAL Appointments: Mjr Gail Winsor, personnel officer and records administrator, officer personnel department, THQ Retirements: Feb 1—Mjrs Tony/Patricia Kennedy Promoted to glory: Mjr David McCann, from Brossard, Que., Nov 19; Mjr Wilson Faulkner, from St. Thomas, Ont., Nov 23; Mjr Ruby MacBain, from Lindsay, Ont., Nov 27: Mjr Blanche Pike, from St. John’s, N.L., Dec 1

CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Feb 2-14 Partners in Mission/Self-Denial resource visit, Bangladesh; Feb 16-17 Kentville CC, N.S. Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill: Feb 2-3 ministry with Canadian Staff Band, Winnipeg; Feb 23-26 divisional review, Bermuda Div Canadian Staff Band: Feb 2-3 music clinics, concert and united worship service, Winnipeg

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS Do you know the difference between the CCM and the CSM? Who’s your CO? And what exactly is a DDWM? See below for a list of some common acronyms and abbreviations that appear in the pages of Salvationist.

BM/SL—bandmaster/songster leader CC—community church CCM/CCMS—community care ministries/community care ministries secretary CO—corps officer CS—chief secretary CSM/YPSM—corps sergeant-major/young people’s sergeant-major IHQ/THQ/DHQ—International Headquarters/territorial headquarters/divisional headquarters JSS—junior soldier sergeant RS—recruiting sergeant TC/DC/AC—territorial commander/divisional commander/area commander TPWM/TSWM/DDWM/DSWM—territorial president of women’s ministries/ territorial secretary for women’s ministries/divisional director of women’s ministries/divisional secretary for women’s ministries Tty/Cmd/Rgn/Div—Territory/Command/Region/Division TYS/DYS—territorial youth secretary/divisional youth secretary

28 February 2019 Salvationist

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0229_0418

SALVATION STORIES

Good, Good Father When I felt lost and alone, God met me in my brokenness.

BY TAMARA RANDLESOME

I

didn’t see it coming when Eventually, I decided to try my father left. One day, he dating again. I met someone, just told me he was leaving, and even though something that I couldn’t go with him and didn’t feel right, I didn’t want that he wouldn’t be back. I was to face my brother’s death alone. seven years old.

I thought we were going to get My mother stepped up and engaged, so I moved to a new did whatever it took to raise her city so we could be closer. family as a single parent. She Jesse died in November always put us first, sacrificing 2014. I was devastated. A few her own hopes and dreams. She months later, my boyfriend taught us about God, and faith broke up with me. And then I has always been part of my life. lost my job. It was all too much But it was hard for me to see to handle, and I broke to the God as a good father when my very core of my being. It was father could so easily walk away my season of Job. and never look back. I grew up For the next three months, feeling abandoned and unloved, all I did was cry out to God. I and it made me look for love in would scream, cry, pray, listen the wrong places. to worship music and read the When I was 17, I met a guy “God is using my story to bring hope and courage to others,” says Bible. And God met me in my who seemed to be my knight in Tamara Randlesome brokenness. shining armour. At first, he said I asked him why I kept makall the right things and treated me well, but then my fairy tale ing the same mistakes when it came to guys, and he showed turned into a nightmare when he became abusive. Those were me that I was trying to fill a void in my life that only he could some of my darkest days. It felt like God had forgotten I existed. fill. After my father left, I kept looking for love and acceptance After the relationship ended, I moved to Vernon, B.C., through a relationship. I realized I needed to get to know God with my family, hoping for a new beginning. I worked while in a new way, as my Father. my mother went to college to better her career, planning to go This was a hard concept for me, but I started reading everymyself once she graduated. But things didn’t work out that way. thing I could find in the Scriptures about God as Father, and A few weeks after she graduated, when I was 21, we received listened to worship songs like Good, Good Father. During this news that changed our lives forever. My 14-year-old brother, time, he also showed me that hurting people hurt people, and Jesse, was diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer, and instead of being angry at the men who wounded me, I should needed treatment at B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver. pray for their healing.

While my mother stayed with him, I worked full-time and I repented of my anger and started to pray for them, and it took care of my three other younger siblings. felt good. I no longer feel shame or anger—just compassion.

Throughout his five-year battle with cancer, Jesse always God is using my story to bring hope and courage to others had a smile on his face. He never let cancer define him. In who have gone through the same thing. the midst of dying from a painful disease, he was still able I come from four generations of Salvation Army officers, and to praise God. was a junior soldier as a child, until we moved to a city without I felt so alone and unsure. Although I reminded others a corps. So when I was invited to try out a new Salvation Army about God’s love and promises, I couldn’t convince myself. church plant here in Kelowna, B.C., it felt like the right step.

My head knowledge couldn’t seem to find its way to my heart.

It has been a long journey to healing, but God has taken all I sensed that God wanted to do some work in me, so for my broken pieces and made them into something beautiful. If several years, I stayed single, focusing on my family and being he can take a lost, broken soul like mine out of the ashes and involved at church. I started reading my Bible and praying give me a new song, a new hope and love for all who have hurt more, wanting to learn about God’s character and what he me, then he can do it for anyone. I know who I am—a child of thinks of me.

God. And he is a good, good Father.

30 February 2019 Salvationist

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

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