Salvationist April 2019

Gen Z on Why They’re Keeping the Faith

Can We Admit When We’re Wrong?

Sisters United After a Lifetime Apart

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

April 2019

Salvationist.ca

Do Not Be Afraid General Brian Peddle’s Easter message urges us to move from fear to trust

CONTENTS

Salvationist April 2019 • Volume 14, Number 4

Departments

Learning to Trust God in the Midst of Anxiety

Pray the Hours: Refresh Your Soul During Lent

Kissing Shame Goodbye: How Should Christians Date?

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

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March 2019

Salvationist.ca

Ke e p Connected

A Pachyderm’s Problem

DUMBO MOVIE P.8

Trouble at Work

My Brother’s Keeper

HUGGING IT OUT P.10 JAMES & THE ARMY 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

MARCH 2019

Salvationist March 2019

World-Class Celebrating 50 years of Brass the Canadian Staff Band

5 Frontlines

• When it comes to dating, let’s recover true purity, says Captain Laura van Schaick.

• Donna Lee Samson learned to trust God in the midst of anxiety.

Ke e p Connected

Faith & Friends March 2019 Tessa Virtue & Scott Moir

Praying the Hours

ICONIC FIGURE SKATERS TALK ABOUT WINNING OLYMPIC GOLD AND SUPPORTING THE SALVATION ARMY. P.16

Refresh your soul with the 2019 territorial prayer initiative.

• Dumbo reminds us that—big or small—God loves us just the way we are.

• Thanks to The Salvation Army, Zach Scott-Pershaw is above the rest.

• Colonel Edward Hill states that we are called to share the good news.

Miracle on Inglis Street When the largest employer in Sydney, N.S., shut down before Christmas, The Salvation Army stepped in.

7 World Watch

My Brother’s Keeper Marching On The Canadian Staff Band celebrates its 50th anniversary.

When James’ meth addiction nearly drove him mad, The Salvation Army was there for him.

God Looks After His Messenger

Hi kids!

Have you ever got to school and realized that you left your lunch at home? Being hungry is not a good feeling. I hope your parents were able to bring it to you!

11 Core Values

In this issue of Just for Kids, you’ll meet one of God’s messengers, Elijah. He was out in the desert with no food or water. He was so hungry and thirsty. But God found an amazing way to bring food to him. God looked after Elijah and He will take care of us, too.

Your friend, Kristin

This month on Salvationist.ca, Captain Scott Strissel offers 10 tips and suggestions for the non-musically inclined pastor.

Man Up!

by Alex Stoney

27 People & Places 30 Salvation Stories The Light of the World

by Rebekah Tillsley

10 Onward Bearing the Cross

by Commissioner Susan McMillan

25 Grace Notes Don’t Get Me Wrong

by Captain Laura Van Schaick

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Q R D O O F M A M J W Y E P V A W J R

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T A H M E E Q X A L B E T R R L G Q J E T R T E R A V E N S V S V J R K F G N O I

1 Kings 17:1-6

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ong ago, there lived a man named Elijah. He was a prophet who gave people messages from God. But the king in the land where Elijah lived didn’t worship God. Elijah said to the king, “It will not rain in this land until I say it can rain.”

God didn’t let any rain fall for a long time. All of the lakes dried up and there was no water for the farmers to grow food. The rivers dried up and the whole land turned brown.

K Q S X S M W

Elijah got down on his hands and knees and took a big drink of water from the stream. Elijah was so glad to get a drink. But he was hungry, too. Elijah was all alone in the middle of the desert, with no food. But God knew Elijah was hungry.

Early the next morning, God sent out a pair of black ravens with meat and bread in their beaks. They swooped down to the ground and landed next to Elijah. Then they opened their beaks and gave Elijah the bread and meat.

God sent the ravens every morning and night with food for Elijah. And God kept water running in the little stream.

This Month: • Learn how God created the world.

• Meet Elijah, God’s messenger.

• Find out why Jesus is the best friend we can have.

• See how Jesus healed a man who couldn’t walk.

• Plus stories, puzzles, colouring, jokes and more!

Want to highlight Army ministry at your worship meetings? Take advantage of our “Keep Connected” promotional materials.

They include PowerPoint slides for on-screen announcements and bulletin inserts that summarize all the great articles in Salvationist, Faith & Friends, Foi & Vie (French version of Faith & Friends) and Just for Kids.

23 Ethically Speaking

A Faith of Their Own

by Geoff Moulton

S D Y T S R

ISSUE

The people began to get very thirsty. God told Elijah where to find a stream that hadn’t dried up. So Elijah walked until he found the stream. It was right where God said it would be!

FARMERS LAKES RAIN STREAM WATER

M F Q L J N P K V H

Keep Connected

Decision Deferred

by Ken Ramstead

4 Editorial

ELIJAH FOOD PROPHET RAVENS THIRSTY

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22 Not Called?

Columns

Looking for Elijah

A W A G L E K K J O

Dignity for All

by Aimee Patterson

Hearts of Gold Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir on winning the Olympics, finding hope in hardship and supporting the Army.

Just for Kids March 2019

Features 8 Do Not Be Afraid God invites us to move from a place of fear to a position of trust.

by General Brian Peddle

12 Renegotiating Faith How do we help young people make the transition into adulthood with their beliefs intact?

by Rick Hiemstra

14 Future Proof Five young Salvationists reveal how they are keeping the faith as emerging adults.

by Kristin Ostensen

Download the materials at salvationist.ca/editorial/ promotional-material or write to ada_leung@can. salvationarmy.org.

Cover photo: © RyanJLane/ iStock.com

Read and share it!

A Home at the Army

FINDING PEACE P.5

Surviving Depression

ON A KNIFE EDGE P.22

New Easter Movie

BREAKTHROUGH P.26

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

faithandfriends.ca

APRIL 2019

18 Three Days A weekend that changed the world.

by Lieutenant Devin Reid

20 Instant Family A simple online inquiry united my wife with the sisters she never knew.

by Major Jim Smith

Out of

Egypt

THARWAT ESKANDER FOUND A LIGHT OF HOPE IN THE DARKNESS OF A MILITARY PRISON CELL. P.16

Salvationist April 2019 3

EDITORIAL

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A Faith of Their Own

ill my child still go to church in 10 years? It’s a question that lurks in the mind of every Christian parent of a pre-teen. It comes laden with fear, uncertainty and even guilt. One can’t help wondering: Have I done enough to nurture their development? Am I even doing the right things? Why do so many young people on the cusp of adulthood reject the faith?

It’s been said that the church is always one generation away from extinction. I’m not sure there is a biblical case for that, since ultimately God is in control—it’s his church, not ours. But that doesn’t absolve us from making every effort to engage the younger generation through evangelism and discipleship. Not merely indoctrinating them, but getting them to own the faith for themselves.

In 2011, The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada released an alarming report entitled Hemorrhaging Faith, which surveyed 2,049 Canadian young people between the ages of 18 and 34. It found that when young adults leave their high school for university or the workforce, they often leave their faith behind, too.

In fact, only one in three Canadian young adults who attended church weekly as a child still do so today. That’s the bad news.

Now for the good news. A follow-

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 April 2019 Salvationist

up report, Renegotiating Faith, published last year digs deeper to analyze how young adults form their identity and make decisions about their beliefs.

Rick Hiemstra, the lead researcher for the study, shared his findings at The Salvation Army’s Leaders’ Summit in Winnipeg last year. When it comes to why young people stay in church, Hiemstra’s article on page 12 identifies two of the most important factors.

When you’re finished his article, turn the page to hear directly from five young Salvationists on why they love the Army … and what sometimes frustrates them about it. To get these candid perspectives from around the territory, our staff writer, Kristin Ostensen, travelled to Booth Bound, an information weekend held each year at Booth University College in Winnipeg. It’s encouraging to see young people consider Christian higher education as part of God’s plans for their lives.

My observation is that young people also stay because they identify with the values that the Army holds. In this issue of Salvationist, we launch a bimonthly series on the Army’s new core values: dignity, hope, service and stewardship. The Ethics Centre’s Aimee Patterson kicks things off with a biblical reflection

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.

on dignity (page 11).

Lastly, General Brian Peddle’s Easter message is a fitting antidote to our fears for the future (page 8). Jesus has promised to be present with us in times of struggle. He is risen, he is building his church and even “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18 ESV). In him, our future is secure.

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

Canadian Officer Receives Order of the Founder

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he Salvation Army world celebrated in February as a new member was welcomed to the Order of the Founder. At the age of 101, Canadian officer Major Annette Vardy received the award from Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary, during an officers’ retreat in the Newfoundland and Labrador Division, where Major Vardy attends Mount Pearl Corps.

Major Vardy was born in Clarenville, N.L., in 1918, and was determined from an early age to become a Salvation Army missionary officer. She was enrolled as a senior soldier at the age of 18 and entered training college in 1945. She was commissioned as a member of the Challengers Session in 1946 and served in corps, social services and health care appointments until 1958, when Major Vardy was transferred to India. For the next 25 years, she served as a nurse in The Salvation Army’s hospitals there. She had the privilege of sharing patients with Mother Teresa, often doing much the same work, though they never had the opportunity to meet. Following her retirement, Major Vardy returned to India and gave an additional five years of service as a retired officer.

While serving in India, Major Vardy unofficially adopted a girl, Leela, whom she cared for from infancy. The baby’s mother died in childbirth and the father was struck and killed leaving the hospital. Today, Leela and her husband serve as Salvation Army officers in India.

“Major Vardy has demonstrated the boundless love of God through her unwavering passion for mission over the years,” says Major Rene Loveless, divisional secretary for public relations and development, Newfoundland and Labrador Division.

“Through her life and witness and work, Major Vardy has clearly embodied and exemplified the values of The Salvation Army.

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Mjr Annette Vardy receives the Order of the Founder. From left, Colonel Edward Hill; Colonel Shelley Hill, territorial secretary for women’s ministries; Mjr Vardy; Lt-Col Genevera Vincent, DDWM, N.L. Div; and Lt-Col Eddie Vincent, DC, N.L. Div

“Now having reached 101 years of age, her service is still touching the lives of all who encounter her inspirational stories, encouraging words, keen sense of humour and gracious spirit,” Major Loveless concludes.

Edmonton Army Hosts Winter Feast

n one of the coldest nights of the year in Edmonton, more than 250 people attended The Salvation Army’s inaugural Winter

Feast in February. This event was hosted by the Centre of Hope to bring the community together. All were welcome to come out of the cold, enjoy a roast beef

Freedom Adams, food services manager at the Centre of Hope, serves dessert at the Winter Feast

meal and listen to performances by local musicians Paula Kirman and Chubby Cree, an Indigenous drumming group.

The Winter Feast was presented in collaboration with Edmonton’s TransEd Valley Line LRT, which not only sponsored the dinner at a cost of $1,500, but also provided 15 volunteers for the event.

TransEd Valley Line LRT is currently working on an expansion to the current LRT line, which will include a station near the Centre of Hope building.

“This new event was well received and continues The Salvation Army’s work to build community in the inner city of Edmonton,” says Major Al Hoeft, divisional secretary for public relations and development and area commander, Alberta and Northern Territories Division.

Along with the meal, guests received a “personal needs” backpack as a special gift for attending the feast.

Salvationist April 2019 5

FRONTLINES

Concert Celebrates Sounds of Youth

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Photo: Cpt David Bond

he sanctuary at Woodstock Corps, Ont., came alive with music in February as the young people’s musical groups from the Ontario Great Lakes Division gathered for their annual concert. The Sounds of Youth event featured Ignite Brass, Impact Brass and the divisional youth chorus (DYC), with Joshua Bailey and Donna Harris making their debuts as the leaders of Ignite Brass and the DYC, respectively.

The program was opened by Ignite, whose contributions included a groovy rendition of Let There Be Rock! and a new jazz arrangement of What A Friend by Donna Harris. Impact Brass followed, giving members Sarah Robertson and Micaela Rayment an opportunity to shine with solos that featured difficult runs and wide ranges. A highlight of Impact’s performance was For the World by Sam Creamer, which featured many different styles, time signatures and tunes.

First-year Cadet Danielle Feltham, out of Winterberry Heights Church in Stoney Creek, Ont., shared a devotion on calling and how the Lord uses our flawed selves. A worship team put together by Rabekah Heintzman helped bring the congregation and performers together in a time of worship.

As the concert came to a close, all the groups joined together to perform a massed vocal item, In Jesus’ Name.

The Ont. GL divisional youth chorus shares a selection

Sally Ann makes some new friends at the Chinatown Spring Festival parade in Vancouver

Army Joins Vancouver’s Chinese New Year Parade

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s people around the world celebrated the Chinese lunar new year in February, The Salvation Army’s British Columbia Division was proud to take part in the 46th annual Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival parade. Now in its third year of participation, the Army was one of 70 entries in the parade, which boasted more than 3,000 participants— dance troupes, marching bands, drummers and more.

A team of 30 volunteers from the British Columbia Division joined in the parade, braving the snow and keeping spirits high as they marched through the streets of Chinatown handing out goodies and high-fives to those in attendance. The crowd enjoyed meeting Salvation Army mascot Sally Ann and seeing the Army’s 1950s Dodge emergency disaster services truck, “Huey.”

“In a province as diverse as British Columbia, where more than 540,000 people of Chinese heritage call the province home, The Salvation Army is honoured to have been included in these celebrations,” says Gavinder Randhawa, communication and marketing co-ordinator, British Columbia Division.

New Divisional Youth Choir in B.C.

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The new B.C. divisional youth chorus performs at Cariboo Hill Temple

6 April 2019 Salvationist

here’s a beautiful sound coming out of the British Columbia Division with the arrival of a new divisional youth chorus.

The choir began rehearsing last fall and currently boasts 35 members, aged eight to 13, from three corps in the Vancouver area. Organizers are looking to expand the choir to other regions in the fall of 2019.

“The impetus behind starting this choir was our desire to link young people from various corps to each other

and show them that they are part of something bigger,” says Captain Jason Dockeray, divisional youth secretary, British Columbia Division. “This choir continues the heritage of Salvation Army music-making and builds on the development of young people for musical worship that starts at music camp.”

The divisional youth chorus made its official debut at Cariboo Hill Temple in Burnaby, B.C., during the Christmas season, performing three numbers to a full house.

WORLD WATCH

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Army Supports Migrant Caravan in Mexico

n estimated 10,000 people from Central America have arrived at, or are approaching, the United States-Mexico border after travelling through Mexico. While some have crossed into the United States seeking asylum, several thousand of these migrants have congregated in the northern city of Tijuana, where The Salvation Army and other aid agencies are providing essential services.

The Army operated two shelters in the city prior to the current crisis. The men’s shelter accommodates just 120 people, with a small extension soon to be commissioned. The women’s shelter provides a further 27 places. However, outreach services are providing support to approximately 8,000 individuals with provision of food and non-food items.

Many of the migrants are disoriented and emotionally affected by having felt compelled to leave their homes and familiar surroundings.

In Tijuana, which is also home to a sizeable transient Mexican population

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that seeks refuge in the United States, The Salvation Army is supplying 2,000 backpacks and nearly 2,500 personal hygiene kits. Around 8,000 individuals will also be assisted with information and advice, access to legal aid, assistance with identification documentation and the paperwork associated with the legal aspects of registering for asylum. Practical issues,

such as the need for cooking facilities and clothing, are also being addressed.

Co-ordinating with other stakeholders, The Salvation Army is further enhancing its humanitarian response in the region by providing greater availability of access to social workers and psychologists, and by offering spiritual assistance where requested.

Salvation Army personnel assist migrants near the United States-Mexico border

Reinventing Recycling in Denmark

he Salvation Army opened a new thrift store in Helsingør, Denmark, in February, that takes recycling to a whole new level. This “Vintage and Redesign” shop is a place where skilled and passionate craftspeople reinvent items of clothing and accessories when the donations cannot be resold in the condition they are in. The initiative aims to be environmentally responsible in the reuse of materials, while also providing training and employment opportunities, raising money for the work of the Army in Denmark and bringing joy to the new owners of the unique artisan products it sells.

“Reuse, reclaim, rethink: that’s our philosophy,” explains Jette Skov, manager of The Salvation Army’s Redesign CPH based in Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen. “We were receiving lots of donations of clothes, but some were in tatters or out of fashion so nobody wanted to buy them. A pile of high-quality textiles was building up in our stockroom that we just couldn’t sell. So a new idea emerged: How about trying to reintroduce old-fashioned values like repairing, altering and redesigning the usable fabric? Could this be done in a world wrought with consumerism? We decided to challenge the existing ways. With a bit of creative thinking, a discarded jacket could become a handbag.”

In 2012, the first Salvation Army Redesign shop was opened in Frederiksberg and proved so successful that four years later a second store was opened in Valby—focusing more on adapting clothes for children and young people—and an online shop was also launched. The new store in Helsingør extends the

Redesign concept to an even wider clientele.

“The high-quality ‘boutique’ approach is popular in Denmark, and we want our Redesign stores to be places that are appealing, where people choose to shop on a regular basis,” says Lt-Colonel Christina Jeppsson, territorial commander, Denmark and Greenland Territory. “The Redesign ethos is rooted in our Christian values of justice and compassion—to be good stewards of what we have been entrusted with, to be fair employers and to care for the world that we live in.”

A new Salvation Army thrift store in Helsingør, Denmark, recycles textiles that can’t be sold into new products

Salvationist April 2019 7

8 April 2019 Salvationist

Photo: © RyanJLane/iStock.com

Do Not Be Afraid

God invites us to move from a place of fear to a position of trust.

BY GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE

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hat causes you to be afraid? Is it the dark?

Spiders? I l l ness, heights, confined spaces, money problems or the future?

A myriad of things are understandable causes of fear, and often that fear

you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” There is also the promise from God in Isaiah 43:1: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” And at the end of the New Testament, as John sees Jesus in his vision and falls at his feet, Jesus again

should remember not only the omnipotence—all-powerfulness—of God; we should remember that he is right with us, beside us and in us. God’s perfect love “drives out fear” (1 John 4:18).

What is happening in your world and in your life this Easter?

God defeated sin on the cross and conquered death—as revealed by the empty tomb! is accompanied by anxiety. There is a recurring theme throughout Scripture where God tells us not to be afraid.

At Christmas we noted the words from the angel Gabriel to Mary as she was told she would be the mother of Jesus: “Do not be afraid” (Luke 1:30).

Remember that according to the Bible, angels are not quite the same as the helpless, beatific, tinsel-adorned young girls and boys who portray them in nativity plays—Psalm 103:20 describes them as “mighty.” The shepherds were comforted by the same phrase with the appearance of an angelic host (see Luke 2:10). In Matthew’s account of the Resurrection morning, the first words of the angel at the tomb are: “Do not be afraid” (28:5).

Just a few verses later, the women meet Jesus and his first words are: “Do not be afraid” (v 10).

The Old Testament addresses the same issue as Joshua is about to succeed Moses. We read Moses’ encouraging words in Deuteronomy 31:8: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake

says: “Do not be afraid” (Revelation 1:17).

So we see that throughout Scripture God says to us: “Do not be afraid.” In the life of Christ, even from the foretelling of his birth, to the announcement of the same, to that first Easter morning, we hear those same words: “Do not be afraid.” It seems clear to me that God is inviting us to move from a place of fear to a position where we implicitly trust this “immeasurably more” God who never fails.

These words from God are not just trite advice. For those who know God and share life with him, there is no need to be afraid because God has overcome the world (see John 16:33), defeated sin on the cross and conquered death—as revealed by the empty tomb! We need to remember this when fear takes hold of us.

God is not a distant, powerful deity; he is an ever-present God who seeks to live with and in his people. We need to couple the instruction of “Do not be afraid” with the recurring promise we read before: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” When fear takes hold, we

Anyone who is struggling with sin and recurring cycles of behaviour that they feel unable to break can choose not to be afraid, but to trust in the God who broke the power of sin on the cross.

Anyone who is facing significant challenges in life within the family, at work or with health, for example, can choose not to be afraid, but to trust in the God for whom nothing is impossible. Anyone who is experiencing grief and loss can choose not to be afraid, but to trust in the God who conquered death and promises eternal life.

So, this Eastertide, do not be afraid.

Remember—God is with you. Do not be afraid. Remember—God is bigger than the situation you are facing. Do not be afraid. Our God is victorious, and he invites us to share in his victory!

General Brian Peddle is the international leader of The Salvation Army.

Salvationist April 2019 9

Bearing the Cross In the footsteps of Simon of Cyrene.

BY COMMISSIONER SUSAN McMILLAN

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any years ago, when my parents were corps officers at Victoria Citadel, they did a sermon series called “Personalities of the Passion.” With sets, costumes and firstperson monologues, they transported the congregation into the imagined thoughts and feelings of some of the biblical characters in the events leading up to Easter.

It was brilliant—the story came alive.

One of those personalities was Simon of Cyrene, the man called upon to carry Jesus’ cross on the way to Golgotha.

Watching my father come down the aisle of the old citadel building, dragging a large cross, was very moving, and made me think about what a terrible thing it must have been for Simon.

This part of the story is mentioned in three of the four Gospels—Matthew, Mark and Luke. They all point out that Simon was from Cyrene, a city in what is now Libya. Mark’s Gospel suggests that Simon was travelling from the country into the city when Roman soldiers 10 April 2019 Salvationist

stopped him.

By this time, Jesus had been beaten so violently that he was weak and unable to continue. I’m not sure why they chose Simon to carry the cross—was it because he was a foreigner? Or that he was the one person going toward the city, instead of following the soldiers and their prisoners to watch yet another Roman execution? Whatever the reason, this man had nothing to do with what was happening in Jerusalem that day, yet he was thrust into the middle of it.

I wonder how he felt. Did he feel discriminated against? Did the cross weigh heavy on his shoulder, on his life? We don’t hear about him again in Scripture, so we can’t be sure.

But there is one interesting detail to note. Mark’s Gospel mentions that Simon was the father of Alexander and Rufus. Perhaps they were all travelling together that day.

Years later, in his greetings at the end of his letter to the Romans, Paul writes:

“Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too” (Romans 16:13). If this is the same Rufus, then carrying the cross of Jesus had a profound effect on Simon.

His son is now “chosen in the Lord,” his wife has treated Paul as an “adopted” son. Perhaps carrying the cross of Christ won an entire family for the kingdom.

We can’t confirm that on this side of heaven, but we can consider if we would serve in this way willingly. Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Mark 8:34). These are difficult words to understand in our modern context. Too often, we have beautified the cross.

For Simon, it might have been a lifechanging moment. As he lifted the cross from Jesus’ bruised and bleeding back, he must have wondered what this man had done that was so terrible. Did he stay at the cross during those hours that Jesus hung there? Did he hear the dying thief say, “This man has done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:41)? Did he see Jesus’ mother and the other women watching in anguish? Did he catch the words from Jesus’ own lips: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34)?

For us, to carry Jesus’ cross is a lifegiving experience. In Mark 8, after his instructions about taking up the cross, Jesus explains: “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it” (Mark 8:35).

When Jesus died on the cross, it was not simply to fulfil a Roman sentence.

He died for you and for me, in order that we might have life. We can try to hang on to life as we know it, but until we recognize his sacrifice on the cross, all is lost. But when we do, we come to know life in a whole new way, in relationship to a holy God, all-powerful and all-loving.

He wants to bless us with life abundant, but we must take up our cross and follow him. What does that mean for you?

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

Illustration: © zatletic/depositphotos.com

ONWARD

CORE VALUES

Dignity for All How King David elevated the son of his enemy.

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he ninth chapter of 2 Samuel tells an oftenoverlooked story. It comes in the wake of a series of military victories that have made King David the dominant force in and around Jerusalem. As is recorded in the previous chapter, David has won a name for himself (see 2 Samuel 8:13).

The story also hearkens back to a covenant David made years before with Jonathan, the son of David’s political enemy, and would-be assassin, Saul.

David had befriended Jonathan despite his parentage. The two loved each other as they loved themselves (see 1 Samuel 20:14-17). David promised to treat Jonathan’s household with the kindness of God for as long as he lived (see 2 Samuel 9:3). A better translation of “kindness” is faithful love, the sort lived out through inclusion and protection. David vowed to treat Jonathan’s family as his own.

This was risky business. Saul’s descendants would likely remain a threat to David’s reign. But David and Jonathan could see something in each other that overpowered any lust for power. David shows himself to be capable of embracing God’s large-heartedness and valuing others as much as he valued himself.

Now, at the beginning of the story, both Jonathan and Saul are dead. David is secure in his rule, determined to reign with justice and equity. His first order of business is to make good on his covenant with Jonathan. To whom, he asks his servant, can I show faithful love for Jonathan’s sake?

As it turns out, there is one remaining member of Jonathan’s family: his son. The first thing the servant notes about the man in question is not his name, where he lives or whether he has children. It’s that the man is crippled in his feet. A man in this condition would have held no social currency. He could not have served in an army or become king. He was no threat. It would have been easy for David to do away with him. And no one would have batted an eye if David had simply dismissed the man from his mind, considering him unqualified to represent Jonathan’s family.

But this is not David’s response. David wants to know more. He learns the man’s name: Mephibosheth. And he hears Mephibosheth is being harboured in Lo-debar, a place of no pasture, a barren land.

David arranges to have Mephibosheth brought to him.

Mephibosheth arrives, suitably terrified. But David does not diminish him by calling him “crippled man.” Nor does David identify him as “grandson of my enemy.” Instead, he offers a

respectful and loving greeting. He calls him by his name: “Mephibosheth!”

Mephibosheth’s response is to fall down before the king. “Who am I?” he asks. “And why would you bring a dead dog like me before you?”

These words are so similar to the prayer of David in Psalm 8: “What are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?” (NRSV).

But David wants the man to rise up. He recalls the words that Jonathan had once used to comfort him while hiding from Saul: “Do not be afraid!” (1 Samuel 23:17).

David continues. “I will show you God’s faithful love because you are Jonathan’s son. I will give you back the land that was meant to be your inheritance. And you, Mephibosheth, will eat at my table always. Not under it, like a dog scavenging crumbs. You are part of my family.”

The story ends with a paired set of observations. First, Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, for he always ate at the king’s table. Second, he was lame in both his feet.

An interesting conclusion, isn’t it? What do you think the narrator is doing here?

I think he is presenting David as a powerful person who is able to see something in Mephibosheth beyond disability, social and political vulnerability, and personal shame.

David’s actions show that he values Mephibosheth not despite his condition or lineage but in accordance with his inherent dignity. He elevates the disparaged grandson of his enemy as a friend, a family member.

David’s actions remind me of God. God calls us by our name and tells us that, whatever we think of ourselves, whatever other people think of us, we belong to God. We are part of God’s household, God’s family.

When God calls us by our name, God calls us to something bigger: a work characterized by faithful love. We are called to recognize the God-given dignity in everyone we meet.

We are called to welcome and include those we knowingly or unknowingly exclude from our communities. It is a long call. But sharing God’s faithful love is about turning enemies into family and giving the marginalized a seat at the table.

Aimee Patterson is the Christian ethics consultant at the Ethics Centre in Winnipeg.

This is the first in a series on the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s new core values: dignity, hope, service and stewardship (visit salvationist.ca/corevalues).

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Illustraion: © bortonia/iStock.com

BY AIMEE PATTERSON

Renegotiating Faith How do we help young people make the transition into adulthood with their beliefs intact?

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vangelical churches in Canada are losing one-third of their young adults—that was the bottom line of a 2011 report called Hemorrhaging Faith. The study found that major life transitions, such as graduating from high school and going to college or university, are exit points from the church. So how can we help teens negotiate this transition and maintain a vibrant Christian faith?

This question is the focus of new research by The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, in partnership with several Christian campus ministries.

Renegotiating Faith: The Delay in Young Adult Identity Formation and What It Means for the Church in Canada is based on two national surveys of close to 2,000 young adults who attended church as teens and more than 1,500 ministry experts.

The report finds that although many young adults don’t stay in church after they have moved out of their parents’ homes for school or work, there are simple, effective ways we can encourage them in their Christian faith and practice.

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Emerging Adulthood Moving out of your parents’ home, leaving school, getting full-time work and starting a family are all ways that Statistics Canada measures entry into adulthood. On average, young adults are reaching these milestones five to seven years later than those who grew up just a few decades earlier.

Renegotiating Faith uses a theory of development by psychologist Erik Erikson, who said that people move through eight psychosocial stages over the course of their lives. According to Erikson, forming your identity and gaining the capacity to commit to a group are two sides of the same coin. This identity formation and taking on of responsibility happens as young adults negotiate roles within groups, including church groups.

This is the fifth stage of development, which is taking place later for current young adults.

When Erikson developed his theory in the late 1960s, he assumed most people would be wrapping up stage five and becoming an adult in their late teens. This is part of the reason the age

of majority is 18, and it also relates to the church practice of youth and young adult ministries that force a transition between ministry programs around the age of 18.

Even in the late 1960s, however, Erikson noticed that some young adults were getting stuck forming their adult identities because it was getting harder to target careers and get the necessary education. Erikson called this stuck-place a moratorium. More recently, psychologist Jeffrey Arnett has developed Erikson’s idea of a moratorium into what he calls emerging adulthood. Arnett says emerging adulthood is marked by exploring identity, instability, self-focus, a feeling of being in-between and a focus on possibilities/optimism.

Emerging adulthood delays entry into adulthood because emerging adults lack the capacity to achieve the kind of milestones that Statistics Canada measures, such as moving out and getting a place of one’s own.

As youth grow up, they have always found ways to differentiate themselves from their parents and their family of

Photo: © Samara Heisz/iStock.com

BY RICK HIEMSTRA

origin. “This is my place, not my parents’ house; this is my career, which lets me provide for myself; this is my family, where I’m the dad.” These kinds of differentiation are normal and healthy.

Today’s emerging adults lack the capacity to achieve these normal, healthy differentiation markers due to factors outside their control, such as the economy and the job market, as well as internal factors.

What is left for young adults to show they are different and independent from their parents? For many emerging adults, it is adopting beliefs different from their parents’ faith. Faith is an important part of their parents’ identity, and it’s within an emerging adult’s capacity to reject their parents’ faith. Emerging adulthood changes the differentiation options available to young adults. This is a big deal.

Mentorship What can we do? I’m going to highlight just two things from the report: mentors and the power of introductions.

What is a mentor? We define a mentor as someone who helps young adults negotiate an adult role within a community. We want our young adults to join the society of adults in our churches. To do this, they’re going to have to renegotiate their childhood roles in our communities. If they can’t, they will likely leave, because few people want an 11-yearold’s role in a church community when they’re 21.

Mentors: •• call out what God has placed inside •• are re-introducers •• are negotiation advisors •• provide continuity.

First, mentors call out what God has placed inside. Many of the young adults we interviewed would say things like “I don’t know what I want to do,” or “I don’t know what I’m good at.” We believe that what they mean, in many cases, is “Even though I know what I’m good at, I don’t know where someone will give me a chance to negotiate a meaningful role that makes use of this gifting.” The result is they discount their giftings. When mentors identify these giftings, they are not just providing information. When mentors notice a gifting, this reassures young adults that others may also notice and give them the opening they need to negotiate a role using that gifting.

Second, mentors re-introduce young adults to the society of adults.

A young woman from our study named

Johanna told us that she left her home church because she was always associated with her last name, never her first. She meant that role-wise, she was thought of as her parents’ little girl.

Mentors help reintroduce the young person to the society of adults, pointing out their gifts and talents and prompting others to see the possibilities in a young person.

Third, mentors are negotiation advisors. In any community, there are conflicts and disappointments. These are normal, but they become insurmountable problems when you don’t know how to effectively deal with them. Mentors help young adults process what they experience, and help them re-engage with the church after disappointments or conflict.

There are simple, effective ways we can encourage young adults in their Christian faith and practice.

Finally, mentors provide continuity.

So many of our great ministry programs, such as youth group, come to an end.

The meaningful roles and connections our youth have made in the church can be suddenly taken away from them. We effectively, if unintentionally, break their connections within our churches, which forces young adults to try to forge a new way back into our congregations.

Mentoring relationships don’t end when the program ends, and this means there is still a meaningful, personal connection back into the church.

The Power of Introductions Mentors and other Christian relationships are also important for another reason. They make it less likely that young adults will use their parents’ Christian faith as a differentiation marker. If a young adult’s only con-

nection to the church is through their parents, then rejecting their parents’ faith is solely about differentiating from them. If a young adult has many other strong Christian relationships, then rejecting the Christian faith is so much bigger and broader than their parents. Christian community is vital for Christian faith.

Many of our young adults will move away either for school or work. At the time of their move, they will still be emerging adults who have not yet made adult faith commitments. Having a Christian community in their lives is crucial for negotiating a Christian identity.

Our research found that three to four times as many young adults will connect with either a local church or a Christian campus group when someone from their local church makes an introduction for them. Few of us would easily join a new church where we don’t know anyone, but for some reason we expect young adults to find their way into churches and campus groups where they are strangers. A simple introduction makes a big difference, and this is something any congregation can do.

The timing of introductions is also important. About three-quarters of young adults who go on to connect with a new church or a Christian campus group do so within four weeks of a move or the start of a new college or university program. This means we need to be intentional about making our introductions early.

Emerging adults lack the capacity to move into adulthood, but this will come. The question is, will they have a Christian community in their lives where they can negotiate a Christian identity once they are in a place to make adult choices? Being mentors and making simple, thoughtful introductions are within our reach, and these things have huge, eternal significance.

You can read more about this research or download a free PDF of the report at renegotiatingfaith.ca.

Rick Hiemstra is the director of research at The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada and was the lead researcher for the Young Adult Transition Research (YATR) study.

Salvationist April 2019 13

Future Proof

Five young Salvationists reveal how they are keeping the faith as emerging adults.

ove over, millennials. Gen Z—loosely defined as people born between the mid-1990s and mid-2000s—are now entering adulthood.

It’s a demographic shift the church needs to pay attention to—especially as Gen Z is reportedly the most secular generation yet.

Studies by The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) have found that major life transitions—for example, graduat-

ing from high school—are times when youth are most likely to leave the church. The EFC’s latest report, Renegotiating Faith, shows how the church can encourage them to stay (see “Renegotiating Faith,” page 12).

So how does The Salvation Army stack up? Five young Salvationists share candidly about what keeps them connected and offer insights into how the Army could strengthen its ministry to emerging adults.

Kailey Gillis is in her third year of studying at Booth University College, where she is a member of the residence advisory group, a student ambassador in the admissions office and a member of the Booth University College senate

KAILEY GILLIS

Yorkminster Citadel, Toronto

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ver the course of her life, Kailey Gillis has been involved in just about every Salvation Army activity you can think of. But as she makes the transition from teenager to young adult, 20-year-old Gillis emphasizes that when it comes to keeping the faith, programs, on their own, are far less important than having a supportive church community.

“There are times when life is stressful, and it’s not always the easiest thing

14 April 2019 Salvationist

to look to God,” she says. “Being part of a good church family has kept me grounded and reminded me that even when I can’t pray, someone else is praying for me. That’s so powerful.”

Raised in Toronto’s Yorkminster Citadel, Gillis is now in her third year at Booth University College in Winnipeg.

She has not yet decided on a career path, but is studying religion. “I came to Booth knowing that I wanted to have a role in improving people’s lives,” she says. “When people asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up, I had no idea, but I knew that I wanted to

help people.”

Yet she may not have ended up at Booth had it not been for her mentors, Steve and Erika White, who were divisional youth secretaries for the Ontario Central-East Division while she was a teen.

“Steve looked at me one day and said, ‘You like helping people. You should go to Booth,’ ” Gillis recalls. “I was in Grade 10, I had no plans to go to Booth. But that was what sparked my first interest—because he had taken an interest in me and knew what I was about.”

A suggestion such as Steve’s can have a profound influence on a young person’s future. But Gillis says that all the small “nudges” from mentors along the way are just as crucial for spiritual development and discipleship.

“It’s having people constantly reminding you of why we do what we do,” she says. “It’s someone asking you, ‘Do you know why we’re standing on this kettle?’ You need someone to be intentional with you, making sure that your spiritual growth is a priority.”

While some young people struggle to stay connected with a church community after moving away from home, for Gillis, that was not a problem.

“When I moved from Ontario to Manitoba to go to school, I was automatically connected with a church because of The Salvation Army,” she says. “Even though I didn’t know any of the people at my new corps, there was already a bond because of the Army.”

Photos: Kristin Ostensen

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BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

JONAH BULGIN

Barrhaven Church, Ottawa

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onah Bulgin has never been afraid to take on leadership roles. At 14, he and his brother spearheaded a beginners’ band at Barrhaven Church in Ottawa, simply because there was a need. “We didn’t have a beginners’ band and we wanted to start one up, so we did,” he explains.

Even then, Bulgin was motivated by a deep desire to make a difference, however he could. “I wanted to not just be attending my corps but to be more involved and be a decision-maker in the corps,” he says. “I wanted to actually have an impact on the corps and on people’s lives.”

Over the past four years in particular, 20-year-old Bulgin has had many opportunities to make an impact through his leadership at Jackson’s Point Camp, Ont. He spent two years as cabin leader and one as head cabin leader, before taking the role of program co-ordinator last summer.

“Camp has been the biggest part of my spiritual journey,” says Bulgin, who has been participating in the Army’s camping ministries since 2006.

“Attending and then working at camp has been huge for my spiritual development because I’m starting to critically think about my faith and not just going through the motions of going to church every Sunday.”

Working at camp now, Bulgin can pass his faith on to the next generation.

“Camp is one of my favourite forms of ministry because no matter what background the kids are from, we have the opportunity to pour God’s love into them and show them who God is through our actions,” he says.

He believes camp is one of the Army’s greatest strengths. “The leadership development programs—such as Timothy 1 at Jackson’s Point—give you leadership training and work experience, but more than that, they offer discipleship and Bible study,” Bulgin says. “Camp is a great opportunity to be involved in fellowship with likeminded Christians who can help you develop your faith.”

Recognizing how essential these kinds of opportunities are for helping youth grow spiritually and make a successful transition from teen to

“Camp has been the biggest part of my spiritual journey,” says Jonah Bulgin, a lifelong Salvationist. He is currently studying police foundations at Algonquin College in Ottawa

young adult, Bulgin encourages the Army to take a more inclusive approach to leadership.

“If young people want to be involved, get them involved, at any capacity,” he says. “It’s not an issue in my corps, but in a lot of corps, you have to be a

senior soldier if you want to be a part of the music ministry, like band and songsters. It can be a hindrance for people who want to get involved in The Salvation Army. It’s important to give everyone equal opportunity, whether they’re a senior soldier or not.”

The Power of Camp Last year, 5,110 young people attended a Salvation Army camp, while nearly 1,600 people—many of them youth—served as counsellors and staff.

Of the young adults surveyed for Renegotiating Faith: • 52% of evangelicals attended a Christian camp as a teen • 31% of evangelicals worked on staff at a Christian camp Attending a Christian camp as a teen is strongly correlated with attending church as a young adult: • 24% of teen campers attend at least weekly, and 35% attend 1-3 times a month • Only 16% of non-campers attend church at least weekly; 30% attend 1-3 times a month • 56% of evangelical teen campers connected with a different local church after moving out of their parents’ home Working at a Christian camp has an even stronger impact on young adult church attendance: • 46% of camp staff attend church at least weekly, compared to 17% of non-staff • 37% of camp staff attend church 1-3 times a month, compared to 31% of non-staff • 72% of evangelical camp staff connected with a different local church after moving out of their parents’ home

Salvationist April 2019 15

PAUL MORGAN

Heritage Park Temple, Winnipeg

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“I feel like once you’re in The Salvation Army, it’s always a part of you,” says Megan Diamond

MEGAN DIAMOND St. John’s Temple, N.L.

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or me, my whole life is music,” Megan Diamond smiles. “I really feel God’s presence through music, so when I got to join the band and the songsters at my corps, it made my relationship with God deeper.

It was an entirely different level of church for me.”

Diamond is a member of the band and songsters at St. John’s Temple, N.L., and has attended music camp for 10 years. Last summer, she made the transition from camper to counsellor, taking on her first leadership role in The Salvation Army.

“That was the best summer of my life,” Diamond reflects. “I wanted to get into leadership because my counsellors were a huge part of getting me through moving from Edmonton to St. John’s in 2015, helping me through some of the hardest points in my life. I appreciate everything they’ve done for me, and I want to be that way for other people.”

Now 17, Diamond says camp and music have been the most import-

16 April 2019 Salvationist

ant factors in keeping her connected to the church and the Army as she moves toward adulthood. “When I was going through a time when I was forgetting about church and my faith, the people at camp kept me coming back, along with my family,” she says.

“They weren’t pushy about it; they were always supporting me.”

After she graduates from high school this spring, Diamond plans to take a gap year and move to Hanover, Germany, where her best friend lives.

“I like learning languages and studying history, so Germany is a good place for that,” she says.

As she was researching her gap year in Germany, Diamond was happy to learn that there is a Salvation Army corps in Hanover.

“It turns out that there is a Salvation Army officer from Newfoundland serving near Hanover,” she says.

“When I heard that, it solidified for me that this is God’s work,” she continues with a smile. “I think it’s going to be fun, and a good way to see another part of the world, and I plan on being very involved in the church.”

s an officers’ kid, Paul Morgan has called more than a few cities home. But of all the places where his parents have been appointed, Hungary stands out. “I was born in Hungary, lived there for two years and then moved back for Grades 4 to 9,” he explains.

“Those were the most influential years of my life because, around the time we moved back to Hungary, there was a big flood, so I got to see how The Salvation Army responded to that,” Morgan continues. “It was different to see people wearing the Army crest, not in a church setting, but doing community outreach. That was when I understood that the Army was more than just a place on Sundays, or somewhere that my parents worked.”

Now living in Winnipeg, 18-yearold Morgan has found a spiritual home at Heritage Park Temple. “When I first moved here, I started going to their college and careers group, and I felt intimidated, being a lot younger than most of the people in the group,” he says. “But Majors Sandra and Owen

JULIA THORNE

Halifax Citadel Community Church

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eeing Julia Thorne in her role as program director of the Army’s Scotian Glen Camp in Thorburn, N.S., you’d never think she was once a shy kid. “To be a leader and get up in front of a bunch of people and preach—that was a scary thought for me,” she says.

So when Thorne was about to graduate from high school three years ago, full-time ministry seemed out of the question. “I thought maybe I’d be an art teacher or go to school for nursing,” she remembers. “It was like, ‘What can I do that isn’t officership?’ But every time I tried to dodge it, something would come up and put me back on this path.”

Now 20 years old, Thorne is working toward that vocation as she studies social work at Booth University College. “Coming to Booth has kept me rooted in The Salvation Army,”

Budden, who were corps officers at the time, really helped me out. They encouraged me to speak freely and express my ideas. I have more confidence to say how I feel because of them.”

she reflects. “A lot of my friends here are also Salvationists, have worked at Army camps, and now attend church with me, so that has been a big support as I’ve transitioned into adulthood and made my own choice to stay with the church.”

Along with that encouragement from other young Salvationists, Thorne is grateful for the mentorship of the divisional youth secretaries in the Maritime Division, where Thorne is a member of Halifax Citadel Community Church. “I keep in close touch with Majors Carson and Teresa Decker—we chat often,” she says. “They have taught me huge lessons—about life, their spiritual walk, how they’ve made it this far, and what it’s like to be officers.”

As a candidate, Thorne has appreciated the support she’s received from the territory—especially a book study for candidates that was done last winter—but raises a note of caution. “If you’re called to officership, there’s lots of resources, but if you’re not, there’s

Julia Thorne is a candidate for officership and president of the student council at Booth University College

Keeping Connected After High School Renegotiating Faith found that among evangelical young adults who moved out of their parents’ homes: • 42% connected with a new church • 42% did not connect with a new church • 16% continued to attend the same church Timing matters—Of the young adults who connected with a new church after moving out of their parents’ homes: • 42% did so within the first two weeks • 36% did so within the first month • 11% did so within the first four months Among the young adults who did not connect with a new church or young adult group after high school, the top three reasons were: not interested (49%); not enough time (25%); and did not know anyone there (24%). Ten per cent said they “did not feel my religious views would be welcome.”

not as much about what your calling means in a different way,” she says.

“It’s important to instill in youth that there are many ways that you can use your talents for God.” Having experienced The Salvation Army’s youth ministry across the territory through working at different camps, Thorne commends the Army for the work it is doing. “When I was part of a camp-at-home team in the Prairie Division, we visited a corps that only had one youth member and she was so active in the corps,” Thorne says. “She told me, ‘We have so many amazing people at this corps that support me.’ And I thought, if they didn’t put all that effort into that girl, she wouldn’t be at that church.

“So I’d encourage corps—even if you only have a couple of people, you can still have a youth group. You can have a junior band with three people in it,” Thorne says. “The future of the corps is the young people, and if we don’t invest in them, they will leave.”

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Photo: Carson Samson

“The Army doesn’t squish the voice of the young people,” says Paul Morgan

Since he started attending Heritage Park, Morgan has taken on a number of leadership roles in the Army, from leading Bible studies to working at Jackson’s Point Camp.

“The Army doesn’t squish the voice of the young people, and I think that’s important,” he says. “I’ve gone to a number of youth retreats in this division, and I’ve seen people’s lives changed at those events. I’ve had times when I’ve been challenged and strengthened through those retreats, and I appreciate that people are trying hard to make them happen.”

And while he is a committed senior soldier, Morgan does wish the Army was more relaxed about its dress code.

“Personally, I don’t like to wear a uniform,” he says. “I think that people who are coming to The Salvation Army for the first time might be intimidated by not meeting the social norm of wearing the uniform—especially in churches where everyone is. It can be a little scary.”

Morgan wears his uniform most Sundays, “but on Sundays when I’m involved in the youth worship team, I don’t,” he says. “Not out of defiance, but to express myself as a young person who chooses to go to The Salvation Army.”

Photo: © Forgiven Photography/Lightstock.com

Three Days A weekend that changed the world.

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t seems like only yesterday I heard the warm tenor voice of Andy Williams heralding the Christmas season with It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Now we find ourselves in the Easter season, the most wonder-filled time of the year.

We journey through Lent and Holy Week, culminating with Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. On that weekend, we contemplate the significance of the three most important days in history, when Christ Jesus suffered, died, was buried and rose from the dead.

These days are not always so wonderfilled. Sometimes the wonder is subdued by the secularization and commercialism of Easter. Other times we allow busyness and the wear and tear of life to prevent us from experiencing this season to the fullest.

This year, let’s commit the time and 18 April 2019 Salvationist

BY LIEUTENANT DEVIN REID effort to plumb the wondrous depths of these three days. I invite you to return to this article, with your Bible, over the Easter weekend. Fold down the corner of this page and come back each day. These words are only one potential piece of the puzzle—the Holy Spirit will honour your offering of reflection and engagement with him. Whatever you decide to do, hold yourself accountable and carve out time in your schedule. It will be worth it.

Good Friday Read Matthew 27:1-61.

Good Friday was a painful day for Jesus, as well as those who followed and loved him. As we ponder what happened that day, it should be painful for us, too. The problem is we don’t like to experience hurt and heartache. Sometimes we skip over the sobering anguish of Jesus’ suffering and death on Good Friday to get to the uplifting joy of the Resurrection

on Easter Sunday, like fast-forwarding a movie to get to our favourite part. In his book Let Justice Role Down: The Old Testament, Ethics, and Christian Life, Bruce C. Birch observed: “The church often chooses to celebrate resurrection as if its necessary prelude were not the cross and God’s suffering there.”

A few years ago, I asked someone if they would like to watch The Passion of the Christ with me. As he glanced away, he replied, “I can’t—it’s too awesome.” He had heard about the graphic scenes and couldn’t bring himself to view it. Although each of us is different and some people may not want or be able to watch such vivid visual depictions— and that’s OK—there is something to be gained by bearing witness to the reality of what Jesus endured, whether in a film, described in print or within our imaginations. The truth about that day must not be sanitized. Though the man

declined to watch the film, I could tell from his response that he grasped Jesus’ suffering in his mind’s eye. That was sufficient for him.

On Good Friday, it is important that we enter into the pain of that day and dwell there for a time, so that we can appreciate it more fully. We need to explore the rich meaning of what Jesus went through, especially what was perhaps the greatest pain of all, even more than the physical suffering: taking on the weight of humanity’s sin and experiencing separation from the Father so that we may be reconciled to God. Let’s not forget that Jesus suffered and died for you and me, out of love, in response to our sin and inability to save ourselves. He paid the penalty for our sins. Let’s truly value the gift of grace that was given. It was free, but it wasn’t cheap.

Holy Saturday Read Matthew 27:62-66 and Luke 23:56.

Scripture records little about the events of Saturday. What else was going on that day, while Jesus’ body was lying in a guarded tomb? The disciples and others who loved Jesus were certainly grieving.

We can speculate that they were fearful, wondering if those who had killed Jesus would come for them. They were likely doubtful, maybe confused and disappointed. Their master was dead and they still didn’t fully comprehend what he had taught them about his death and imminent Resurrection. Was something else going to happen? It was a time of waiting; an in-between time with death behind and, little did they realize, resurrection ahead.

Since Jesus’ death, Resurrection and ascension, we, too, live in an in-between time. The good news of Jesus Christ is that the kingdom of God has already arrived. However, it is also yet to come.

In The Jesus I Never Knew, Philip Yancey shares these thoughts: “Good Friday and Easter Sunday have earned names on the calendar. Yet in a real sense we live on Saturday, the day with no name. What the disciples experienced in small scale—three days in grief over one man who had died on a cross—we now live through on a cosmic scale. Human history grinds on between the time of promise and fulfilment. Can we trust that God can make something holy and beautiful and good out of a world that includes Bosnia and Rwanda and inner-city ghettos and jammed prisons in the richest nation on

earth? It’s Saturday on planet Earth. Will Sunday ever come?”

Saturday was a rough day for the disciples. Living on “Saturday” isn’t easy for us, either. We, too, experience grief, doubt, fear, confusion and disappointment—the ups and downs of living in a flawed, sinful world. None of us is exempt. But the difference between us and the disciples is that we know what happened on Sunday. Whatever life throws our way, let’s exercise our faith in the crucified and risen Christ. The disciples may have had the blessing of living alongside Jesus, but he said: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). “Sunday” will indeed come—it came for the disciples, and it will come for us, too.

Easter Sunday Read Matthew 28:1-15.

On Christmas morning, children and adults alike wake up excited about the day. Not to diminish Christmas, but Easter Sunday should be just as or more exciting. It is the day we celebrate the fact that Jesus defeated sin and death— he is alive!

The Resurrection of Jesus is the most significant event in human history. It is central to God’s plan of redemption.

It is at the heart of the New Testament and our faith. Its importance is paramount, not only historically and collectively, but personally. C.S. Lewis hit the mark: “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” The reality of the Resurrection deserves and requires the attention and response of every human being.

Because of the Resurrection, we also have new life and eternal life. When we are saved by grace through faith, we first begin to experience new life in the here-and-now. There is no part of our lives that God is not touching to make new as we co-operate with him on the road of faith and discipleship. Along the way, he restores wholeness from brokenness, transforms us into the likeness of Christ, equips us for service, and much more. It’s not always an easy journey.

It can be difficult as God chips away at the pieces of our lives that need to be surrendered and discarded, and as we encounter hardships for the sake of Christ. But it’s the greatest road in life you could possibly take. And best of all, the final destination is heaven.

What I’ve just said about following Christ and new life in him is not some empty sales pitch. I can confirm it’s genuine because of my own experience. I was saved as a young boy at The Salvation Army’s Jackson’s Point Camp in Ontario.

Although I don’t recall exactly what was said at one of the evening services, I remember that my heart was stirred.

Lying on my bunk in the quietness of the cabin after lights out, I felt the peaceful presence of the Holy Spirit and I prayed, simply asking Jesus to come into my heart. I didn’t fully comprehend what had happened, but I knew I was different.

Something about me was new.

Though I didn’t have a dramatic experience like Paul or some other people whose testimonies I’ve heard, it was no less powerful. It was Resurrection power, “the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith” (Romans 1:16).

I’ve walked with Jesus, by his grace, ever since.

The Holy Weekend In Scripture, we are reminded that God’s saving work in Christ was accomplished through both his death and Resurrection.

To borrow a phrase from Frank Sinatra, “You can’t have one without the other.”

Jesus was “handed over to death for our trespasses and was raised for our justification” (Romans 4:25 NRSV; see also Romans 6:3-11, Ephesians 2:4-10, Colossians 2:12-15). Thank you, Lord.

Over these wonder-filled days, I hope you have a fresh encounter with the crucified and risen Christ. As you share a communal meal, remember and give thanks for his body, broken for you, his blood, shed for you. When you settle into the darkness to sleep, remember the tomb where he lay. And when you wake up on Sunday morning, be joyful!

Celebrate his victory and what you have gained through it, and share the good news. Jesus is risen—he is risen indeed!

Further Resources: • Contemplating the Cross: A 40-Day Pilgrimage of Prayer by Tricia McCary Rhodes • T he Cross of Christ by John R.W. Stott • He Chose the Nails: What God Did to Win Your Heart by Max Lucado • T he Resurrection of the Son of God by N.T. Wright Lieutenant Devin Reid is the corps officer at Lewisporte Corps, N.L. Salvationist April 2019 19

Instant Family A simple online inquiry united my wife with the sisters she never knew.

I

BY MAJOR JIM SMITH

t’s an earthshaker! To think that all my life I thought I was an only child, yet all this time I had a whole other family.”

To say that my 84-year-old wife, Joan, was overwhelmed when she heard the news would be an understatement. Never in her wildest imagination did she ever think she had any siblings, let alone an extended family she knew nothing about.

Early Life Born Carol Charmaine McEwen, Joan had lived her entire life knowing only the parents who adopted her at nine months, Frank and Ada Hunter, a godly Christian couple who lived in the west end of Toronto. The Hunters named their new baby Joan May and had her baptized at a local Baptist church. They had no other children, so Joan became their only child.

When Joan was five, the family began attending the local Salvation Army church. Joan attended Sunday school and gave her life to Christ at an early age.

In her teenage years, she was involved in numerous church activities and, after completing high school, she felt God’s call to full-time service as a Salvation Army officer. Entering the Army’s officer training college in Toronto, Joan was commissioned as a lieutenant in June 1954 and appointed as the corps officer at Seaforth, Ont. I, too, had grown up in Toronto and had met Joan through various Salvation Army activities. I also entered training college, and by the time I was commissioned in 1955, we had been dating for some time and were already talking about our future together. Joan entered nurse’s training at The Salvation Army’s Toronto Grace Hospital and, a month after her graduation in May 1957, we were married. For the next 39 years, we served in Salvation Army ministry in Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta, raising three boys in the process.

Throughout the years Joan had often 20 April 2019 Salvationist

Mjr Joan Smith (seated, centre), with her sisters, from left, Robyn, Penny and Wendy

wondered about her birth parents—who they were and where they lived. By the time we retired in 1996, Frank and Ada Hunter—the only parents she had ever known—had passed away, but Joan still had her adoption papers safely tucked away. These showed her birth mother’s name, Edith McEwen, as well as Joan’s original name and date of birth.

Surprise News It wasn’t until the summer of 2018 that our granddaughter, Stephanie, offered to help by looking into genealogical records through Ancestry.ca. There she found that Joan’s birth mother married a man named George Rogers in 1941, and together they had three daughters— Wendy, Robyn and Penny.

Stephanie admits the whole story is

The four sisters meet for the first time on October 30, 2018

incredible. “I eventually discovered the entire McEwen family tree,” she says, “and was then able to contact Wendy

and Robyn through Facebook. Once I saw their profile pictures, I couldn’t believe the uncanny resemblance to my grandmother.”

The three sisters live in different parts of Canada—Wendy in Fredericton, Robyn in Airdrie, Alta., and Penny in Calgary. All of them are much younger than Joan, and when Stephanie reached out to them, they were astonished to learn they had an older sister about whom they had known nothing. Needless to say, Joan was also surprised to hear the news. “To think that at my age I was now getting a new family,” she comments.

“It’s absolutely unbelievable!”

Word soon got around, resulting in Joan’s family and friends joining in the excitement, all of them amazed at what they had been told. Friends at the Meighen Retirement Residence in Toronto, where we live, couldn’t believe the news. For all her life, as far as she had known, Joan had been an only child.

This news seemed like nothing short of a miracle.

Meeting Her New Family In the days that followed, Joan was in telephone contact with each of her “new” sisters. In these happy conversa-

tions, she learned the names of her birth mother’s parents, when they lived and died, and also that Edith McEwen, her birth mother, was one of 10 children.

Edith had a sister named Claire, still living, who was born in 1929 and now lives in Toronto. Joan has since talked several times with her and has learned

For all her life, Joan had been an only child. This news seemed like nothing short of a miracle. a lot about the extended family.

On October 30, 2018, the four sisters were united for the first time when Wendy, Robyn and Penny, along with Robyn’s son, Kris, were able to visit us in Toronto. We enjoyed a beautiful afternoon of looking at pictures and sharing our life stories.

“When I had a chance to meet them in person and start to get to really know them, there was an instant connection,” says Joan. “Genes don’t lie, and I’m not surprised I look like them. Being part of God’s family is one thing. But discovering you have a whole new earthly family is something else altogether.

What a wonderful gift!”

Majors Jim and Joan Smith are retired Salvation Army officers living in Toronto.

Joan May Hunter at age two, after her adoption

Help Us Reach Our Goal:: $2.3 million

Salvationist April 2019 21

NOT CALLED?

Decision Deferred Why couldn’t Robyn Purcell sign on the dotted line?

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

R

obyn Purcell was poised. She had breezed through the soldiership courses and there seemed to be no reason why she would not be signing the Soldier’s Covenant.

But that day, she couldn’t do it.

Difficult Decision Purcell was born to soldier parents who attended Montreal Citadel. They were also the church caretakers, and the family lived in an attic apartment at the citadel.

“Home was church,” Purcell laughs. “On Sunday mornings, our commute was a minute or so. We thought of ourselves as church mice!”

When Purcell turned 16, becoming a soldier seemed like the next logical step in her Christian walk, and she eagerly started her classes. And though the courses went well, she was conflicted.

“I was going through a period of time in my life where I felt that signing the Soldier’s Covenant was not going to be an honest thing for me to do,” she explains. “For me, the Soldier’s Covenant wasn’t just about The Salvation Army; it was really an agreement between myself and God. And he already knew how I was living my life at the time. To become a soldier then would have been like putting egg in God’s face. So I didn’t.”

Walking away from soldiership was the most difficult decision Purcell had ever made but her parents were supportive.

“They knew their teenager well enough to know she was trying to figure out where she stood,” Purcell smiles now.

Meeting God Purcell realized she needed to embark on a period of selfreflection.

“I needed to discover who God is,” she says. “Up until then, my perception and understanding of God was limited to Sunday school stories; it wasn’t personal enough. So for the next three years, that’s what I sought: a personal relationship with God.” An important part of that process lay in her decision to volunteer at Camp lac l’Achigan, Que., when she was 18.

“It was a life-changing experience,” she says.

Then divisional youth secretaries in the Quebec Division, Majors Jean-Curtis Plante and Rachel Lamont were instrumental in helping Purcell know God in a deeper sense.

“They asked the tough questions, such as, ‘How is your faith doing? What does your relationship with God look like?’ ” That summer, they challenged her to read the Bible from cover to cover, something she had never done before. But all that reading didn’t seem to make a difference until one night at camp. Everyone in her cabin was asleep except for Purcell.

22 April 2019 Salvationist

Robyn Purcell has embraced soldiership

“For one reason or another, I had put aside my Bible reading for a couple of days,” she says. “I was restless without knowing why, and I felt as if a weight was pressing down on me.”

Purcell wrestled with that feeling until she saw it for what it was: “I met God.” To-Do List That night, out of that intense encounter with God, Purcell came away with three things that she needed to do.

“The Lord told me that night that I needed to let go of a relationship I was in,” Purcell says. “I realized that was why I had not been able to sign the Soldier’s Covenant. The relationship was not a healthy one, it was not a godly one.

“The second thing I heard the Lord say,” she continues, “was I needed to submit my life fully to him. And, lastly, I needed to become a Salvation Army officer.”

The next day, Purcell returned to Montreal and ended the relationship. Then she met with her corps officers and re-enrolled in soldiership classes, becoming a soldier in 2012.

More to Come Purcell has embraced soldiership. She helps run the youth group and Bible study program at Montreal Citadel, where she serves on the corps council. She is also a member of the divisional camp board.

Purcell sees officership some time in her future and is a member of the candidates’ fellowship.

“I’ve been waiting on the Lord as to when he wants me to go,” she says. “I’m ready!”

In the meantime, other things have been put into her path that indicate God’s presence.

Purcell graduated from McGill University with a teaching degree and after spending some time as a substitute teacher, was offered a permanent post.

“I felt like this was a message from God,” she says. “ ‘I’m with you but this is where I want you to be for a time.’ ” For Purcell, teaching is only a way station on the road to officership.

“God called me to officership and there’s nothing else that will ever satisfy me,” she says. “I love teaching, but I know there is more in store for me.”

Man Up! Three ways men can fight sexism.

BY ALEX STONEY

I

n January, Gillette released a new ad called “We Believe” that reflected on the idea of toxic masculinity.

With news reports of #MeToo playing in the background, the ad asked “Is this the best a man can get?” and answered with the belief that men can do better, offering a new slogan: “The best men can be.”

While many people applauded, the backlash was swift, with people posting photos on social media of Gillette razors in the trash, and vowing to boycott the company.

In my opinion, the ad showed men at our worst and our best, so it made me wonder why others felt as if they were being stereotyped. I was disappointed by those reactions. The best we can be is kind, generous, protective and inclusive—why would anyone push back on that?

Men seem to have a giant fear of other men. Maybe that’s why we’re so angry with being told we need to be accountable to each other. We don’t want to upset the status quo.

In The Time Has Come: Why Men Must Join the Gender Equality Revolution,

activist and author Michael Kaufman writes, “Fear of other men becomes a constituent part of manhood. It’s a mechanism for men to police themselves, to not challenge words and behaviours that we find objectionable.”

Men, we need to think better of ourselves and each other, and we need to let our guards down so we can achieve our potential to build better communities.

I was born and raised on my traditional territory, the Gitxsan Nation. My mother raised me, along with my twin sisters, on her own, but close to family.

I was privileged to grow up surrounded by strong Gitxsan role models, both men and women.

So I wasn’t fully aware of gender inequality until well into my youth.

Today, I still find myself shocked to hear about the inequalities that women face on a day-to-day basis. Here are just a few examples: •• More than 150 countries have at least one actively sexist law that makes life more difficult—or more dangerous—for women and girls.

•• Every year, 12 million girls under the age of 18 are married.

•• One in three women has experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lifetime, and women aged 15-44 are more at risk of rape and domestic violence than cancer, motor accidents, war and malaria.

We are made in the Creator’s image, both male and female. It’s only together, as equals, that we represent the full image of God. When sin entered the world, it caused a breakdown in our relationship with God, our relationship with creation and our relationship with each other.

So how can men strive for gender equality? Here are some practical suggestions: 1. R ecognize and make use of the spiritual gifts and talents of women. General Brian Peddle is a strong advocate for gender equity.

In a recent article, he proclaimed that we need to do more to ensure that women are being placed in positions that will benefit the Army, its clients and the kingdom.

2. I nclude women in important conversations. We need to intentionally seek out women to participate in important conversations because they are underrepresented. There are many qualified women in any given profession who have valuable insight to share.

3. Be responsible for your thought life. Women are sometimes seen as a source of temptation in the workplace, a threat to a man’s reputation, rather than peers. This makes it difficult for women to do their jobs. You are responsible for your thought life. If you struggle with sexual temptation, seek out help.

It’s well past time that we all choose to live outside of a patriarchal system that treats one gender more favourably than another. We are made in the image of the Creator, both male and female.

It is only together that we reflect the whole image of God. It is only together, as equals, that we can better build God’s kingdom here on earth.

Alex Stoney is the children and youth ministry co-ordinator, Upper Skeena Circuit with Gitsegukla, Hazelton and Sik-E-Dakh (Glen Vowell), B.C.

Ethically Speaking is a series by The Salvation Army’s social issues committee.

Salvationist April 2019 23

Photo: © nito100/iStock.com

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

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0229_0418

GRACE NOTES

Don’t Get Me Wrong Are we willing to admit when we miss the mark?

BY CAPTAIN LAURA VAN SCHAICK

Illustration: © Jumbo2010/stock.Adobe.com

A

lot of us have it wrong about being wrong. Let me explain. We’re afraid of being wrong—about anything.

For some, our sense of worth is so wrapped up in being right that admitting to being wrong is seen as a sign of weakness—even disgraceful.

As a culture, we often shame and shun other people who have made mistakes. We fire them, push them aside and discard them. We make room for the right people, the ones who have never been wrong.

This way of thinking is all wrong.

Last month, I wrote about Joshua Harris’ public apology for the harm caused by his book I Kissed Dating Goodbye. His apology is getting a lot of attention in Christian circles, and for good reason. It’s not every day a Christian leader acknowledges being wrong. Harris courageously admitted that he has come to disagree with some of his earlier ideas, recognizing that the message of the book has been damaging for many people.

While some are celebrating this confession, others feel it is too little, too late. Some don’t even want to hear it.

For Harris, this journey began when he posed a question to his congregation: “If there are ways that the leadership of your pastors has been unhelpful, I want to hear from you.”

Several people responded, and he began to see how even wellintentioned practices and godly values can be applied in a way that deeply hurts people.

Still, Harris admits that he was not able to objectively reconsider his book until he stepped away from his role as a pastor. As a Christian leader, he felt that he “had to be constantly right about everything.”

But this isn’t the biblical approach. Take the prophet Nathan, for example. When King David declared his desire to build a temple, Nathan initially supported David, saying, “Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the Lord is with you” (2 Samuel 7:3). Nathan later reversed his statement, acknowledging that he had not accurately discerned God’s will.

Christian leaders are not perfect. They are not always going to get things right.

I’m not talking about things like sexual harassment or abuse—that’s a different matter altogether. But when it comes to the sharing of ideas, to teaching and preaching, to giving counsel, we sometimes get it wrong, even when we have good intentions.

Social biases, the influence of family-of-origin or simple ignorance can all cause a leader to make a poor decision or statement. The result can be emotionally or spiritually harmful. We need to take responsibility for this harm.

Unfortunately, too often Christian leaders are performanceoriented, self-righteous or feel too unsafe in the context of their church to admit fault. This isn’t healthy.

When Christian leaders become too convinced of what they think they know, it inevitably damages the faith community.

They need to be held accountable.

This can only happen if there is a culture shift within the church. Leaders, we need to be more transparent and vulnerable. We must model Christ before we teach Christ, and we must acknowledge our depravity outside of a relationship with God. We need to be courageous enough to choose humility and willingly admit our mistakes. And we need to welcome questions and constructive feedback from the church body.

We need to foster environments that encourage open dialogue and deep, honest relationships.

Personal development—the process of becoming holy— requires mistakes. Personal development requires us to put to death old ideas and habits that are holding us back from growing as disciples. This is true for everyone in the church, leaders included.

People who are always right aren’t really growing. They aren’t taking risks and they aren’t re-evaluating their worldviews. Do we really want Christian leaders who are stagnant in their growth and development as disciples? Or do we want Christian leaders who are pushing the boundaries of social justice and seeking a fuller understanding of what it means to be a Christ-follower?

Admitting that you are wrong takes strength and is a sign of wisdom and personal growth. I think we all want those types of people leading our churches.

The question is: Can we, as Christian leaders, have the courage to say “I was wrong”? Can we repent, seeking God’s wisdom in all things, and then share our new perspectives?

And if we do, will the Christian community respond with love and acceptance?

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

Salvationist April 2019 25

Give children the tools for success

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26  April 2019  Salvationist

PEOPLE & PLACES

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Proudly displaying their Junior Soldier Promises as they are enrolled at St. John’s Citadel are, from left, Sophie Chippett, Jonah Perrin, Chase Pretty, Brayden Humby, Mason Kelly, Jersey Grace Budgell, Leslie Clarke and

Lucy Belbin. Celebrating with them are, back, from left, ACSM John Pike; Mjrs Darryl and Cathy Simms, COs; Dawn Butt, children’s and youth ministries director; JSS Denise Rideout; and Sherry Loveless, teacher of the junior soldier classes.

TORONTO—Retiring National Advisory Board member Calvin Buss receives a certificate of appreciation from Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, in recognition of the service and support he has given to The Salvation Army.

WEST KELOWNA, B.C.—Tamara Randlesome is the first senior soldier to be enrolled at the West Kelowna Church Plant. Celebrating with her are Lts Rob and Jennifer Henson, COs.

FENELON FALLS, ONT.—Brian Gill is enrolled as a senior soldier at Fenelon Falls Corps. From left, Mjr Charlene Randell, then CO; Brian Gill; Mjr Roy Randell, then CO; and CSM Randy Switzer.

DILDO, N.L.—A new trombone is presented to the Trinity Bay South Corps Band in memory of Chatfield Reid. Sharing in the dedication of the instrument are, from left, Mjr Garry Ward, CO; Byron Brooks, band leader; Eric Reid, band member; Sandra Reid-George, daughter of Chatfield Reid; and Mjr Sandra Ward, CO. Salvationist April 2019 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

GAZETTE TERRITORIAL Appointments: Lt Andrew Benson, community outreach officer, DHQ, Maritime Div; Jul 1—Cpt Geraldine Lindholm, training principal (section head for training and education), School for Officer Training, Finland and Estonia Tty; Cpt Hannu Lindholm, corps property secretary, THQ, Finland and Estonia Tty Retirements: Apr 1—Mjrs Roy/Charlene Randell Promoted to glory: Cpt Anita Smith, from Listowel, Ont., Feb 1; Aux-Cpt Marie Russell, from Woodstock, Ont., Feb 7; Mjr William Bowers, from Mississauga, Ont., Feb 13

CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Apr 2-3 Evangelical Fellowship of Canada denominational leaders’ retreat, Queen of Apostles Renewal Centre, Mississauga, Ont.; Apr 6-9 with the Canadian Staff Band, Mount Pearl, N.L.; Apr 18-21 Easter weekend (united Good Friday service at Tudor Hall, ecumenical sunrise service at Parliament Hill, Sunday worship at Ottawa Citadel), Ottawa; Apr 26-28 convocation, Booth University College, Winnipeg; Apr 30 Wesley Studies Symposium, Tyndale Seminary, Toronto Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill: Apr 5 leadership weekend, Ont. CE Div, Sheraton Parkway North Hotel, Toronto; Apr 7-9 divisional review, N.L. Div; Apr 12-14 130th anniversary, Fairview Citadel, Halifax; Apr 20-21 Easter Sunday community service, Wetaskiwin, Alta.; Apr 23 women’s ministries meeting, Meadowlands Corps, Ancaster, Ont.*; Apr 27-29 convocation, Booth University College, Winnipeg (*Colonel Shelley Hill only) Canadian Staff Band: Apr 6-7 Mount Pearl, N.L. Canadian Staff Songsters: Apr 6-7 Winterberry Heights Church, Stoney Creek, Ont.; Apr 20 The Glory of Easter concert, North York Temple, Toronto

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 April 2019 Salvationist

TRIBUTES BURLINGTON, ONT.—Major Leonard Monk was born in Monkstown, N.L., in 1923, and was influenced to attend the Army by his grandmother. Leonard accepted Christ after returning from Argentia, N.L., where he worked on the American military base. He entered training college in 1943, and in 1955, married Lieutenant Ivy Morey, an officer/ teacher. They served in corps throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, including in Seal Cove, Fortune Bay, where a new citadel was built during their tenure, Point Leamington and Bay Roberts. Leonard and Ivy were appointed as directors of family services in Charlottetown, P.E.I., in 1974, and to men’s social services in Edmonton in 1976. In 1981, they became executive directors at Wapiti Lodge in Grand Prairie, Alta., from where they retired.

Leonard was recognized by the Alberta government’s social services for his ministry to the men of Alberta. He was predeceased by an infant daughter; daughter, Beverly Garnett; parents Charles and Susan Monk; brothers Eric, Clayton (Minnie) and Archibald (Elsie); and sister, Effie Dunphy (John). Leonard is missed by his loving wife, Ivy; daughter, Brenda Cappus (Don); son-in-law, Richard Garnett; grandchildren Courtney Loos (Tim), Grayson Cappus (Megan) and Janet Bryce (Ian); great-grandchildren Preston and Elsie Cappus; brother, Maxwell; nephews and nieces.

LINDEN, ALTA.—Colonel Marion Ratcliffe (nee Donnelly) was born in Nanaimo, B.C., in 1932, and raised in Rossland, B.C. Marion served the Lord from a young age and was active in the Army and Interschool Christian Fellowship. In 1955, she entered the College for Officer Training in Toronto and met Bill, her future husband. Married in 1958, they served in Carbonear, N.L., and then in Pakistan from 1960 to 1970, where Marion served in youth and women’s ministries and as assistant principal at the training college in Lahore. Returning to Canada in 1970, Marion served in youth and camp ministry, divisional appointments in Newfoundland and Labrador and Bermuda, and the territorial pastoral care department. They again served in Pakistan from 1991 to 1995, with Marion as the territorial president of women’s ministries. Prior to her final appointment in the world missions department at territorial headquarters, they served as leaders of the Maritime Division. Retiring in Calgary, she attended Glenmore Temple and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Marion is missed by her husband, Bill; son, Wil (Catherine) Brown-Ratcliffe, and grandson Jordan; daughter Carolyn (Hugh) Kung, granddaughter Tania (Luke) Kendze and great-grandchildren Boe and Ava, and grandsons Ryan and Aaron; and daughter Barb (Mark) Stanley and grandsons Ben and Jacob.

CAMBRIDGE, ONT.—Born in Peterborough, Ont., in 1939 to Bert and Elizabeth French, Herbert Gary French was promoted to glory at the age of 79 after a brief but intense fight with cancer. Gary moved to Cambridge (Galt) with his family shortly after his birth, where they attended The Salvation Army. After graduating from Galt Collegiate Institute, Gary married Jean Borgal, who was promoted to glory in 1988.

He worked at Dominion Woollens and then Cambridge Towel until he retired. A faithful soldier at Cambridge Citadel, Gary was a member of the senior census board, band and songsters. Gary touched the hearts of everyone he knew and is remembered as a caring friend and neighbour who inspired others with his generosity and kindness. He faithfully volunteered with the Canadian Cancer Society driving patients to medical appointments. A devoted family man and beloved child of God, Gary is missed by Mary (nee French), his second wife with whom he shared more than 29 years of marriage; daughters Rhonda (Rafael Pena) and Lisa (Robert Savoie); grandchildren Emily, Olivia, Matthew, Brandon and Sheldon; sister, Major Glenda (Bob) Mackenzie; and stepbrother, Glen (Joan) Lavender.

PEOPLE & PLACES BRAMPTON, ONT.—Audrey Winnifred Wieler was born in 1930 as the third child of Salvation Army officers, Brigadier William Lewis and Mrs. Brigadier Lavinia Lewis, while they served in Bermuda. From an early age, Audrey loved to sing, and ministered alongside her mother, who played the guitar, and her preaching father, while they served in Barbados and Jamaica. Audrey lived with her family in Quebec City during the Second World War, and was commissioned as an officer in 1952 in the Intercessors Session. Her adult life was devoted to family and her Christian community through singing, baking, clay artistry and Christian women’s clubs. Audrey married the love of her life, Vern Wieler, in 1955, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage. Together they attended corps across Canada, as well as in Seattle, where she led singing groups, sang duets with Vern into her 80s, founded Woodroffe Artisans outreach ministry at Woodroffe Temple (now Barrhaven Church) in Ottawa, and organized couples’ social evenings. Audrey’s love for her family, friends and God remains with those whose lives she touched. She is dearly missed by her husband, Vern; son, Shane (Sharon); daughter, Alahna (Greg Allen); grandchildren Ariel, Emily, Patrick and Erika; and niece, Sheril.

CAMBRIDGE, ONT.—Major Ingebjorg Catherine Allan (nee Roed) was born in Indonesia in 1925, where her officer parents, Major Ole Peter Roed and Mrs. Major Katharina Larsen Roed, were serving. Following Katharina’s promotion to glory, Ole married Major Elizabeth Brooks, who became Inge’s second mother. When Japan invaded Indonesia during the Second World War, Inge’s family was interned at separate prison camps.

Ole and Inge’s brother Arthur went to a work camp. Ole did not survive, but Arthur escaped and settled in Norway with his wife, Henny. Elizabeth eventually reunited with Inge and her brothers Peter and George. After the war, the family immigrated to England and then Canada. Inge remained in England to attend the International Training College for Officers, in the Standard Bearers Session.

Commissioned in 1950, she served in an Army orphanage in London, England, before being appointed to Sunset Lodge in New Westminster, B.C., where she met Lieutenant George Allan. Married in 1955, they retired in 1990 following 40 years of faithful service. Inge was the corps historian, a songster and home league member at Cambridge Citadel. She is survived by her brother, Peter (Esther); children Dale (Alice), Heather and Robert (Kathy); four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

CORNER BROOK, N.L.—Major Calvin Hillyard was born in Corner Brook to Samuel and Rosa Hillyard. Early in life he attended the Salvation Army citadel and became an integral part of the corps, taking part in band, songsters, corps cadets and serving as a cub leader. In 1953, Calvin entered the College for Officer Training in St. John’s, N.L., as a member of the Shepherds Session. Following his commissioning, Calvin was appointed to Long Pond/Manuels, N.L. (now Conception Bay South), and then Whitbourne, N.L. In 1965, Calvin married Harriet Stone and in 1974, they moved to Toronto where Harriet entered the College for Officer Training as a member of the Overcomers Session while Calvin took command of Uxbridge Corps, Ont. It was while stationed in Uxbridge that Calvin further pursued his education and earned a bachelor of theology. Calvin was a prominent member of the Rotary Club of Canada and received the Paul Harris Award. After retirement, he took a position as the chaplain with The Salvation Army’s men’s hostel in Peel Region, Ont. Calvin is sadly missed by his wife, Harriet; daughters Raelene (Junior) and Michelle (Duane); grandchildren Jordan, Nathan and Breanna; brother, Robert (Betty); sisters Ruby, Hazel and Betty; and sister-in-law, Veronica.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Major Blanche Pike (nee Douglas) was born in 1927 in Grand Bank, N.L. She entered the College for Officer Training in 1946 in the Warriors Session and was commissioned in 1947. Early appointments included Herring Neck, St. John’s Temple and South Dildo Trinity Bay Corps, N.L., where she met Lieutenant Cecil Pike, whom she married in 1954. Together they served as corps officers in communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, including Monkstown, Creston, Mundy Pond, Birchy Bay, St. Anthony, Triton and Carbonear. Social services appointments took them from St. John’s to Vancouver, as well as to St. Catharines and Thunder Bay, Ont. Blanche and Cecil spent several years in divisional and territorial appointments before she entered honourable retirement in 1993. Predeceased by her husband, Major Cecil Pike, and her eldest son, George, Blanche is lovingly remembered by her children, Norma (Kip), Max (Denise), Elizabeth (Rick), Keith (Shona), John (Sheila), Stephen, and daughter-in-law, Verley. Also missing their “Nan” are 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

GEORGINA, ONT.—Born in Porcupine, Ont., in 1941, Major Max Bulmer was enrolled as a soldier at Kirkland Lake Corps, Ont., in 1957. Max worked as an orderly at Kirkland Lake Hospital before joining the Royal Canadian Regiment in London, Ont. In 1962, he married Helen Mills and they followed God’s call to become officers and were commissioned with the Evangelist Session in 1969. Their appointments took them to Peace River, Alta.; North Bay, Ont.; Lahr, Germany; Westmount Hamilton, Ont.; Geilenkerchen, Germany; Toronto; St. Catharines, Ont.; Vancouver; Winnipeg; and Ottawa. After retiring in 2006, Max and Helen carried on in ministry as the corps officers in Hanover, Whitby and Bowmanville, Ont. Max was involved at Georgina Community Church where he was a band member, band sergeant and recruiting sergeant. He served as padre at the Sutton Legion and president of the Pefferlaw Lions Club. Max is lovingly remembered by his wife, Helen; daughter, Sandra (David); son, Kevin; and six 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.

KING’S POINT, N.L.—Oswald Newbury was born in 1932 to Allan and Daisy Newbury, and promoted to glory in his 85th year. Oswald was the owner and operator of a small business in the logging industry for many years before he retired. A man of great faith who lived his life for the Lord, Oswald served as bandmaster in his home corps in King’s Point for more than 30 years. His love of music and ability to teach young people to play a brass instrument encouraged many to become members of the band and to serve the Lord through their gift of music. Oswald’s involvement in the men’s fellowship and as a Sunday school teacher provided opportunities to inspire others to live for Christ. Oswald was also involved in his community, serving as chairman of the library board for 54 years. With his influence living on in the many lives he touched, Oswald is missed by his wife of more than 60 years, Motee Newbury; daughter, Verley; daughter in-law, June; grandchildren Grant (Joanne), Angela (Jean-Francois), Kyron (Emily), Darrell and Matthew; and great-grandchildren Norah, Elliott and Zoey.

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Visit Salvationist.ca for rates Salvationist April 2019 29

SALVATION STORIES

The Light of the World How NEON helped me step out of my comfort zone.

BY REBEKAH TILLSLEY

L

ight. I have held on to this word for as long as I can remember.

Growing up with parents as officers, I lived in many places, including Campbell River on beautiful Vancouver Island. I vividly remember walking along the town’s sea walk with my family and looking out to the lighthouse on Quadra Island across the strait—shedding light and directing the boats.

This image is one I’ve held dear in the midst of many changes in my life.

In my second year at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ont., my parents were appointed to the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg. I knew I couldn’t follow them. This meant that my family would now be a province away. I knew it would be hard, but the emotions that came were even more difficult than I anticipated.

Over these years, I experienced a sense of loneliness and disappointment in others and myself and, at times, frustration with God. Throughout this challenging season, I was reminded that Christ will meet my every need according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus (see Philippians 4:19). Christ is enough for me, and in those moments of loneliness I need to turn to him to fill me and meet my every need. It’s something I’m still learning, but I’m constantly reminded of how great God truly is—even in the midst of difficulty.

So where am I now? How does the image of a lighthouse have relevance to my life today? I am married to a wonderful and supportive husband, Chris Tillsley. We live in Aurora, Ont., and serve in several ways at our home 30 April 2019 Salvationist

“Christ has called us all to be his light in this world,” says Rebekah Tillsley

I love using music as an avenue to help young people connect with their Saviour corps, The Salvation Army’s Northridge Community Church. And this past summer, my family officially returned to living in the same province again.

In addition, I serve as a member of NEON, a worship band based out of territorial headquarters. Throughout my time as a member, this idea of being light has challenged me—especially considering the group’s name.

Growing up in The Salvation Army,

I have been blessed to listen to and befriend so many wonderful musicians. It’s easy to compare yourself, or assume that “someone else can do a better job than me.” In this sense, joining NEON has stretched me. I believe God calls us to leave our comfort zones, and being part of NEON has done just that. God has used it to challenge me to lead, even when I don’t always feel equipped, and to further trust him in spite of my insecurities. For this I am thankful.

When I reflect back on the past few years of being in this group, a highlight for me is the youth retreats we’ve assisted across the territory. I love using music as an avenue to help young people connect with their Saviour, and to help encourage them to be a light in their communities, as it says in Matthew 5:1416: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

As I reflect once again on the image of the lighthouse from my childhood years, I can’t help but be reminded of the cross of Christ. Not only has he been my source of light in turbulent seasons of life, but he continually equips me to be a source of light for the world around me.

The beautiful reminder is that Christ has called us all to be his light in this world, no matter our capacity, and no matter our story. He is our source. He is our light.

IF IT DOESN'T SIT RIGHT, STAND UP.

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EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD Salvationist April 2019 31

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FRIDAY, JUNE 21 2 pm • Officers’ Councils 5 pm • Welcome Banquet 7:30 pm • Welcome Meeting 10 pm • Youth Event SATURDAY, JUNE 22 8 am • Prayer Breakfast 10 am • Workshops 12 pm • Indoor/Outdoor Fellowship & Celebration Event 4:30 pm • Candidates’ Reception 6:30 pm • Commissioning & Ordination SUNDAY, JUNE 23 8:45 am • Prayer Walk 10 am • Worship Service 1 pm • Silver Star Luncheon

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

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

UBC Campus, Vancouver

Learn More commissioningweekend.ca For address address changes changes or or subscription subscription information information contact contact (416) (416) 422-6119 422-6119 or or circulation@can.salvationarmy.org. circulation@can.salvationarmy.org. Allow Allow 4-6 4-6 weeks weeks for for changes. changes. PM PM 40064794 40064794 For