Salvationist December 2019

What to Do When Holidays Are Difficult

How to Livestream Your Worship Service

General Brian Peddle: “Spread the Word!”

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

December 2019

Salvationist.ca

Joy to the World Sharing the good news at Christmas

CONTENTS

Salvationist December 2019 • Volume 14, Number 12

Departments

28 Messengers of Grace Welcomed at CFOT

Searching for Healing After Sexual Abuse

Remembering the Sacrifices for Our Freedom

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

November 2019

Salvationist.ca

Keep Connected

Past As Prologue

FROZEN 2 P.14

Belleville’s Warm Room

ARMY ASSISTANCE P.26

Emily Ann Roberts

VOICE LESSONS P.5

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

faithandfriends.ca

NOVEMBER 2019

Salvationist November 2019

5 Frontlines

Faith & Friends November 2019

• This Remembrance Day, let’s reflect upon the sacrifice made by so many to preserve the freedoms we often take for granted, says Colonel Edward Hill.

• Orest and Tracy Goyak were Christians who went to different churches. But where would they worship together?

• Caring for animals is part of creation, states Darryn Oldford.

16 Not Called?

• The Salvation Army’s Warm Room offers love, care and community.

Faith on High

RETIRED SALVATION ARMY PASTOR HARRY READ PARACHUTES INTO NORMANDY (AGAIN!) FOR A CAUSE AND A CALLING P.16

New Salvation Army musical debuts off-Broadway with a Canadian connection

Keep Connected

• Appearing on The Voice was just the beginning for country singer Emily Ann Roberts.

Faith on High Salvation Army Commissioner Harry Read parachuted into Normandy (again) for a cause and a calling.

Skeleton Army Debuts Off-Broadway New Salvation Army musical, conceived and performed by Canadians, captivates audiences at Theatre 315 in New York City.

Frozen 2 Anna and Elsa need to leave the past behind. Can we do the

Messengers of Grace Welcomed

Hopes and Dreams

by Ken Ramstead

Twenty-eight cadets enter the College for Officer Training, the most

All in a Day’s Work A Salvation Army program helps persons with disabilities find fulfilment through employment.

Just for Kids November 2019 Jesus Loves Everyone

Hi kids!

In this week’s Bible story, you will meet a person named Matthew, who was a follower of Jesus. Before he met Jesus, Matthew was a tax collector.

No one liked tax collectors because they cheated people out of their money.

44

• Pray for the leaders of Canada.

Your friend, Kristin

CARE CHECKUP

NURSE PATIENT

DOCTOR

PILLS

HEALTH

SURGERY

HOSPITAL

TEST

E C V E T R P Y R O H N A S E A N O E H E O E R T D T S E J E T S I E C S A U S B B E P O M L G K O K N I D I T X C A N T I S M H T Q B U Y O P I L L S A R C V Y R E G R U S L K M W D X C H E C K U P W G V P T B H W D K Y A O V B W X O S P

• Find out how God helped Elijah, one of His messengers.

Reprinted from Kids Alive!

17 Fresh Ideas 23 Taking the Lead Character Counts

by Paul Carew and Captain Ruth Gillingham

26 Cross Culture 27 People & Places

8

30 Salvation Stories

Columns 4 Editorial Sing, All Ye Citizens

by Geoff Moulton

10 Onward Great Expectations

by Commissioner Floyd Tidd

24 Viewpoint Christmas in Conflict

by Darryn Oldford

25 Grace Notes Busking for Jesus

by Captain Laura Van Schaick

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

Keep Connected

Noah’s Ark

by Giselle Randall

Ground Zero

by Chris Pilkington

This Month:

• Meet Matthew, the tax collector no one liked—except Jesus.

When Jesus met Matthew, He could have ignored him or told him to get lost. He could have said, “You’re a bad person. I don’t like people like you.” What do you think Jesus said? Read the story to find out.

Good Medicine

Matthew 9:9-13

• Honour veterans on Remembrance Day.

ISSUE

How would you treat someone like Matthew, someone who nobody likes? Would you invite them to spend time with you, or tell them to go away?

This month on Salvationist.ca, Captain Krista Andrews shares how running became a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

Features 8 Spread the Word!

At Christmastime and beyond, the good news of Jesus needs to be shared.

by General Brian Peddle

11 Spirit of Bermuda Divisional congress highlights Canadian Staff Songsters and bids farewell to territorial commander.

by Geoff Moulton

14 The First Noel The story of Christ’s birth is so remarkable, it needed to be expressed in song.

by Major Bruce Power

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.

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

Cover illustration: Simon Treadwell/paperdove.co.uk

Read and share it!

Holiday Surprise

Heavenly Interruption

Army Helps in Kelowna

PUPPY LOVE P.5 A SAVIOUR IS BORN P.8 CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS P.19

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

faithandfriends.ca

18 Everything Is Possible Through her testimony, Beatriz Alvaran gives hope to newcomers at Montreal Citadel.

by Kristin Ostensen

Building Toy Mountain

CHRISTMAS 2019

20 Apostles in the Digital Realm How to livestream services at your corps.

by David Thornburrow, with Kristin Ostensen

22 The Twelve Days of Christmas 20

More than a partridge in a pear tree.

by Major Cathie Harris

CHRISTMAS CAMPAIGN PROVIDES GIFTS FOR THOUSANDS OF FAMILIES IN NEED. P.12

Salvationist December 2019 3

EDITORIAL

Sing, All Ye Citizens

W

hat’s your favourite Christmas tradition? When I was a child, my family loved to listen to Christmas music. On heavy rotation in December was the record (yes, I’m old enough for LPs) John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together, which first aired as a TV special in 1979. The best song on the album by far is The 12 Days of Christmas, with each of the Muppets taking a verse. We laughed as a bumbling Fozzie Bear forgot his line: “Seven swans a-swimming.” And took great delight in squealing along with Miss Piggy: “Fiiiive gold rings!”

In this issue of Salvationist, Major Cathie Harris explores the spiritual meaning behind the 12 days of Christmas, with practical suggestions for how to celebrate the full season of Christmas (page 22). You might be surprised to learn that Christmas Day is just the start!

Elsewhere, Major Bruce Power takes us on a journey through the Bible to analyze the songs associated with the Nativity— from Mary to Zechariah to Simeon (page 14). It seems strange to think of these biblical characters bursting into song, but Scripture notes they could not contain their joy at the birth of the Saviour.

In his Christmas message, General Brian Peddle examines the song of the angels who delivered the news of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, news “so joy-

Salvationist

is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Brian Peddle General Commissioner Floyd Tidd 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 December 2019 Salvationist

ous and tremendous that they couldn’t keep it to themselves” (page 8). And Commissioner Floyd Tidd urges us to listen closely to the words of the Christmas carol: “Yet in thy dark streets shineth, the everlasting Light. The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee (Jesus) tonight” (page 10).

Jesus came in humility to show us that God loves the whosoever.

in Faith & Friends magazine, packaged in the centre spread.

It’s a busy season, but in the hustle and bustle we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World. Born in a dirty cattle shed in a backwater town of the Roman Empire to a teenage mother, Jesus came in humility to show us that God loves the whosoever. As we celebrate the season, may our hearts sing of the one who came to save us and bring his peace on earth.

GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Of course, in The Salvation Army, we have many holiday traditions: standing by the kettles, marching in Santa Claus parades, packing toys and hampers for those in need, running in the Santa Shuffle, enjoying breakfast at Hope in the City, singing Silent Night at our corps’ Christmas Eve services…. You could add your own activities to the list, I’m sure.

For Salvationists, volunteers and friends of the Army, it’s about spreading the good news and sharing the love of Jesus in practical ways. If there is any doubt, just take a look at the inspiring stories

Brandon Laird Senior Graphic Designer Hannah Saley Digital Media Specialist Ada Leung Circulation Co-ordinator Ken Ramstead Contributor Agreement No. 40064794, ISSN 1718-5769.

Member, The Canadian Christian Communicators Association. 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.

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Phone: 416-422-6119; fax: 416-422-6217; email: circulation@can.salvationarmy.org.

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Inquire by email for rates at salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org.

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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

Army Provides Support After Hurricane Dorian

BY LINDA LEIGH

I

Bahamas Before hurricane Dorian touched down, a major government-led evacuation found many Bahamians staying in emergency shelters. The Salvation Army provided hundreds of meals and clean drinking water for people at these shelters. After the storm ripped through the islands, The Salvation Army acted on specific requests from the Bahamas National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide food, clothing, tarps, clean-up kits and similar items.

In Nassau, The Salvation Army set up relief efforts as the first of the evacuees began to arrive from Abaco. Efforts focused on preparing Salvation Army shelters for occupancy, receiving and sorting clothing items for distribution, meeting with NEMA and visiting government shelters to assess needs both in Nassau and the devastated northern islands.

“The Salvation Army has had a strong presence in the Bahamas for more than 90 years,” says Major Clarence Ingram, divisional commander, Bahamas Division, Caribbean Territory. “We will be involved not only in the immediate response to hurricane Dorian but in the long-term rebuilding efforts, which are expected to be three to five years in duration.”

International Assistance At the request of the international Salvation Army, additional disaster relief personnel and volunteers were deployed to Nassau and Freeport soon after the hurricane hit the Bahamas, to assist the existing teams as they continued to serve those impacted. Carolynn Barkhouse,

Photo: Ryan Love

n September, The Salvation Army responded to one of the most powerful hurricanes on record. When the eye of hurricane Dorian made landfall in the Bahamas, the result was catastrophic. In Atlantic Canada, Dorian’s high winds and rain downed trees and power lines, and caused widespread damage, outages and closures. Immediately after the storm, Salvation Army emergency disaster services personnel provided food, practical assistance, and emotional and spiritual care to those affected.

Salvation Army workers provide emergency assistance in the Bahamas

divisional director of emergency disaster services, Alberta and Northern Territories Division, was deployed to assist with leadership and long-term recovery efforts.

“There are no words to describe the destruction—total devastation,” says Barkhouse. “As we drove around, I couldn’t even begin to comprehend what it must have been like for the people who call this place home as Dorian went through.

“There is much uncertainty and despair amongst the evacuees,” continues Barkhouse. “And the responders who have been here since the storm hit are tired and weary. Pray for our team as we plan how we will assist going forward.

There is much work to be done and it will be a long recovery.”

Atlantic Canada Ahead of Dorian’s expected landfall in Atlantic Canada, Salvation Army emergency disaster services workers connected with government partners to discuss the situation and support that would be required. They were on standby and poised to provide food, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care.

“Our presence in many communities means we have immediate resources for emergency assistance,” says Perron Goodyear, territorial director of emergency disaster services.

Six days after Dorian hit the Bahamas, the powerful storm moved across

Atlantic Canada, leaving tens of thousands without power. The most damaged area was Halifax, where three evacuation centres were set up. In the days following the hurricane, The Salvation Army provided close to 900 meals, as well as hydration, and emotional and spiritual care. In addition, the Army’s community response unit roamed downtown Halifax, where structural damage and flooding were significant, to provide assistance to residents, hydro workers and cleanup crews.

In the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, N.S., Atlantic Canada’s third-largest metropolitan area, high poverty levels meant that many people couldn’t afford to replace the food they had lost due to power outages.

Furthermore, there was an immediate concern for food and water for the elderly and those who were unable to find transportation to relief centres. At the request of the municipality, The Salvation Army’s mobile feeding unit was placed in a strategic location to serve the most people, and volunteers delivered meals across the region.

“Working with the city at length to provide assistance is a great opportunity for The Salvation Army to offer hope,” says Major Corey Vincent, corps officer, Sydney Community Church, N.S. “It also speaks volumes of the respect and confidence our partners have in our professionalism and ability to help the broken in their time of need.”

Salvationist December 2019 5

FRONTLINES

Officership Information Weekend Inspires Kingdom Choices

Photo: Matthew Osmond

Delegates and leaders attend the Canada and Bermuda Tty’s annual Officership Information Weekend

F

ifty delegates from across the Canada and Bermuda Territory gathered at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) in Winnipeg in October to explore their call to Salvation Army officership. Under the theme “Kingdom Choices—Why Not You?,” the weekend was filled with worship, preaching, teaching, conversation and prayer.

On Friday evening, Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary, spoke from Proverbs 3:5-10, encouraging delegates not only to “stop, look and listen” during the weekend, but also to respond to what God would have them do with their life.

Commissioner Tracey Tidd, territorial

president of women’s ministries, shared at the Saturday morning chapel service.

She noted that she can say one yes at a time because the invitation to respond to God’s call comes with a promise that he will never leave us or forsake us.

Other sessions on Saturday included: an overview of the CFOT program, understanding the Officer’s Covenant, adventures of Salvation Army officership, understanding the call, officer expectations, a tour of the cadet residences and a time for connecting with divisional secretaries for candidates and other divisional delegates.

On Sunday morning, Commissioner

Floyd Tidd, territorial commander, took the delegates through the story of Gideon.

He encouraged everyone present to step up to their identity in Christ, to step into a closer relationship with God, to step out in faith and be obedient to God’s call, and to step forward for service.

“Many delegates left the weekend feeling affirmed in their call, and others left with a commitment to continue to work out God’s plan and purpose for them,” says Major Jennifer Hale, secretary for candidates. “We are inspired by the movement of God across this territory as he calls people for service in The Salvation Army.”

Community and Family Services Opens in Dunnville

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he Salvation Army opened a new community and family services (CFS) location in Dunnville, Ont., in September.

This location will offer many programs, including child nutrition, after-school help, addiction services, legal assistance, food bank, spiritual guidance and much more.

Dunnville CFS is managed by a close-knit group of strong leaders: Breanne Hunter, Joy Quail, Mandy Walton and Lisa Gibb. Their work has been recognized by the HaldimandNorfolk REACH and Child Nutrition Network, which presented Dunnville CFS with a certificate for Partnership Recognition.

“There’s so much positive going in the community, and it starts in a place like this, places that feel like home,” comments Rob Lamothe, outgoing president of REACH’s board of directors.

“The county cannot be everything to everyone,” says Ken Hewitt, mayor of Haldimand County. “We are so fortunate to have organizations to fill in the gap.”

6 December 2019 Salvationist

Cutting the ribbon at the grand opening of Dunnville community and family services. From left, Mandy Walton; Joy Quail; Bernie Corbett, Haldimand County councillor; Mjr Robert Russell, AC, Ont. GL Div; Mjr Elaine Honcharsky, corps and community services officer, Simcoe CC, Ont.; Ken Hewitt; Breanne Hunter; Dan Millar, ADPR, Ont. GL Div; Mjr Everett Barrow, DC, Ont. GL Div; and Lisa Gibb

FRONTLINES

Partners in Mission Campaign Raises $2.1 Million

Photo: Joel Johnson

T

he Canada and Bermuda Territory had another successful Partners in Mission campaign in 2019. Thanks to the dedication and fundraising efforts of Salvationists across the territory, the campaign raised an impressive $2,112,409.

The money raised will be sent to International Headquarters, which will distribute it to territories in need. These funds ensure that the Army flag keeps flying in all 131 countries where it is active.

“We thank everyone for their extra efforts in supporting the international work of The Salvation Army,” says Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray, director of world missions. “The tag line for this year’s campaign was ‘Building the Kingdom of God.’ With the support of Salvationists across Canada and Bermuda, we have truly helped to build his kingdom on earth.”

A timbrel brigade performs a drill at Bagamoio Corps in Mozambique, a partner territory of Canada and Bermuda

Young Salvationists Attend Scouting Jamboree

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ine youth members and seven Scouters (leaders) and parents from the 15th Peterborough Salvation Army Scout Group, based at Peterborough Temple, Ont., attended Scoutmob, an international Salvation Army Scout jamboree held in Jambville, France, in August. More than 400 Scouts and Scouters from 14 countries came together to celebrate 100 years of Salvation Army Scouting in France and 90 years of Salvation Army Scouting in Belgium.

During the week at Scoutmob, the Peterborough group spent time meeting new people, getting reacquainted with old friends, learning about Scouting and The Salvation Army in other countries, playing games and learning Scouting skills.

The group also spent an afternoon at a local adventure park and a day in Paris that culminated with a boat cruise on the Seine.

A highlight of the week was the market day, where each country hosted a booth and prepared food and an activity from their respective country. The Peterborough group hosted games of mini-stick hockey and gave out maple candies.

On the final night, a banquet was held along with a campfire where each country led a song or skit, before the torch was passed to the Netherlands, where the next Salvation Army Scout jamboree will be held in 2022 to celebrate their 100th anniversary.

“Scouting within The Salvation Army is a family, and we have enjoyed the times we have spent with our brothers and sisters from around the world,” says Deryck Robertson, leader of the Peterborough Salvation Army Scout Group.

The Peterborough Scouts visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris

The 15th Peterborough Salvation Army Scout Group camped with Scouts from the Sittingbourne Corps, England, while attending the Scoutmob jamboree

Salvationist December 2019 7

8 December 2019 Salvationist

Spread the Word!

At Christmastime and beyond, the good news of Jesus needs to be shared.

BY GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE

“ When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.”

—Luke 2:17

W Illustration: GoodGnom/DigitalVision Vectors via Getty Images

hen you experience something good you just can’t help talking about it. That may be a memorable meal, a good book, an enjoyable film, stirring music, dramatic theatre or beautiful countryside. Whatever the experience, it leaves such an impression on us that we want to share it with others.

We have to share it! Good news needs to be shared.

Joy for Everyone These days, when people discover they are expecting a baby, many find creative ways to share the news; some hold parties to reveal the gender of the unborn baby; some have parties and—when the child is finally born—they announce it loud and clear.

Jesus’ birth was announced through a new, bright star that appeared in the sky. An angelic choir burst into song to communicate the great news.

Unsuspecting shepherds were looking after their sheep, like any other night, when the sky lit up and they heard the most astonishing news in a most spectacular way. An angel appeared to personally deliver a message to the shepherds (see Luke 2:9-12). This was a detailed message—the angel clearly described who Jesus was (see Luke 2:11)

and how they would find him (see Luke 2:12). So the shepherds journeyed to the manger and found Jesus “just as they had been told” (Luke 2:20).

Such was the impact of their experience on the hillside and in the stable, they just had to tell other people about it.

The news was so joyous and tremendous that they couldn’t keep it to themselves.

The news about Jesus brought light into the darkness of a shattered world. Like the shepherds, we need to realize that this good news is not just ours—it needs to be shared.

“

The shepherds journeyed to the manger and found Jesus ‘just as they had been told.’

”

Words and Actions In my message to Salvationists and friends, employees and supporters this Christmas, I’m calling us to have a renewed confidence in the gospel. John the Baptist preached a message of repentance and prepared the way for Jesus.

God sent his one and only Son into this world to save it. Jesus then sent out his disciples to preach the good news, perform miracles and make disciples. At Pentecost the Holy Spirit enabled the disciples to share the gospel in a myriad of languages and empowered the early church to spread the story of the Saviour to new lands and new people.

The Apostle Paul declared: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

We are a Salvation Army—the gospel is the saving message we preach in words and express in actions.

Opportunities and Means The good news of Jesus brings hope to those who are lost, light to those in darkness, joy to those in despair. It offers real transformation to the person who is caught in addiction, disillusioned by materialism or seeking purpose and direction. We share the gospel because we have experienced its truth and power for ourselves, and we know, personally, the “author and perfecter,” so we have confidence in the gospel’s transformative power on others.

This Christmastime and beyond, let us follow the example set by the angels and shepherds. Let us use every opportunity and every means possible to spread the word about who Jesus is while showing people where they can find him so that they, too, can have a saving, personal relationship with the living Christ. It’s not just good news—it’s the best news. Let’s share it!

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

Salvationist December 2019 9

ONWARD

Great Expectations Christmas changes everything.

Illustration: Simon Treadwell/paperdove.co.uk

BY COMMISSIONER FLOYD TIDD

“ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory....”—Ephesians 3:20-21

T

he level of anticipation is growing as the “big day” approaches. For some, the countdown to Christmas begins at the 100-day mark or with the first dusting of snow; for others, it began on December 26 last year. Christmas comes with great expectations and high hopes. Sometimes, the circumstances and disappointments of the past have lessened the expectations and perhaps even replaced hope with fear. Listen again to the words of the Christmas carol: “Yet in thy dark streets shineth, the everlasting Light. The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee (Jesus) tonight.”

Approaching that very first Christmas, a young couple found that life had taken a turn that did not match their own expectations. They had plans. Plans for a wedding. Plans for married life and a family, in due course. But things were changing. Things were not going as they could ever have imagined. An angel had spoken to them, informing them that Mary would have a baby and it would 10 December 2019 Salvationist

not be Joseph’s child. This was not what they had expected.

As the time came near for Mary to give birth, the required journey to Bethlehem for a census was not what they hoped for during these days.

Without available accommodation anywhere in Bethlehem, they made themselves as comfortable as they could in a stable. And here, in a stable, away from their home and family, Mary gave birth to a son. This was not how they imagined the beginning of their family life or the welcome to the world for their son, Jesus.

We know how the story continues.

This baby, born in a stable, would give sight to the blind, make the lame walk, calm a storm with a word and raise the dead. This baby was named Jesus because he would save his people from their sins.

This baby would become a man who showed the depth of God’s love and power when he was crucified and rose again on the third day.

We know that all of this was more than Mary and Joseph could have ever asked or imagined. Their unmet expectations were surpassed by what God had planned for them and through them.

Christmas, the arrival of Christ in our

world, changes everything—including my expectations. Unmet expectations are now no longer replaced with despair and fear, but with hope and anticipation of more than I could have ever asked or imagined. Now, because of Christmas, we can approach unmet expectations differently. Changes happen in the course of the journey of life. Some of those changes are the result of my own choices. Some are the result of the choices of others that have an impact on my life. And some are just the reality of life in a broken world.

These changes can have a direct effect on my expectations.

Because of Christmas, I can expect the unexpected with certainty and hope.

Certainty that nothing comes into my life that hasn’t been filtered through the Father’s hands and he will use to accomplish something beautiful in my life—his purpose (see Romans 8:28-29). Hope that will not disappoint because God has poured out his love into our lives through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us (see Romans 5:5).

When the unexpected happens, accept that things are different than anticipated. Take time to analyze why things are the way they are and different from what you had hoped. Begin to anticipate what God has in mind. Choose to adapt your attitude and actions to embrace the even greater thing God has planned. This is how faith responds.

When life’s journey takes an unexpected turn down a darkened street, hear again the truth of the carol, “Yet in thy dark streets shineth, the everlasting Light.” He is waiting even there to meet you with your hopes and your fears, offering a “more than you could ever ask or imagine” life.

Commissioner Floyd Tidd is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Spirit of Bermuda Divisional congress highlights Canadian Staff Songsters and bids farewell to territorial commander.

BY GEOFF MOULTON

From left, Mjr Sandra Stokes, Colonel Shelley Hill, Ed Christopher, Comr Susan McMillan and Colonel Edward Hill

Photo: Lt-Col John P. Murray

F

rom September 27-29, the Bermuda Division hosted its annual congress under the theme “Listen, Behold, Go—Now!” The event also served as a final send-off for Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, capping five years of leadership as she takes up a new appointment with International Headquarters.

Together with territorial leadership, the Canadian Staff Songsters (CSS) travelled the length of the island, ministering in song and collaborating with Bermudians in worship and witness.

Prior to the congress, The Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board met in Bermuda to discuss issues of importance to the territory. At a reception, Sir

John Swan, former premier of Bermuda, recalled that the Army’s Harbour Light was built under his tenure more than 30 years ago, and brought words of encouragement: “The ‘S’s on your uniforms stand for more than just salvation—they mean special. Your organization has the relationship with God that gives us the gift to be kind to one another, the sharing and caring.”

Opening Celebrations Events kicked off on Friday afternoon with an outdoor concert by the CSS at city hall in Hamilton. In attendance was the city’s mayor, the Rt. Worship Charles R. Gosling, as well as the Hon. Lovitta Foggo, member of Parliament.

Hamilton’s town crier, Ed Christopher, dressed in traditional garb, rang the bell to announce the concert. Commissioner McMillan spoke on the theme “Be Strong: Fight for the People and the City.” Later that evening, Commissioner McMillan and members of the CSS mingled with young people from across the division at Warwick’s Cedar Hill Corps for a fun night of games and fellowship.

Saturday began with a prayer breakfast at West End Community Church in Somerset, led by Major Sandra Stokes, divisional commander. Colonel Shelley Hill, territorial secretary for women’s ministries, spoke on 1 Samuel 3 and urged those assembled to take the time to listen to what God and others have Salvationist December 2019 11

The North Street Singing Company sings You Make Me Brave

Salvationists on the march

Worship team energizes the congregation

Divisional band plays at West End CC

Bermudians attend the CSS concert

to say. Members of the congregation then led a prayer time of thanksgiving, confession, intercession, supplication and empowering. The CSS surrounded the capacity crowd and sang Hallowed Be Thy Name and His Eye Is on the Sparrow, with a solo by Janine van der Horden.

With the Bermuda Divisional Band playing outside the church doors, the space was hastily reconfigured to celebrate the official opening of West End Community Church’s new building extension—a multipurpose space that will enable the congregation to better serve the community. The audience thrilled to a presentation by the West End Community Church Puppet Ministry, composed of young people, as well as a 12 December 2019 Salvationist

The Canadian Staff Songsters perform on the steps of city hall in Hamilton, Bermuda

vocal solo from Jamel Bean.

Commissioner McMillan, Major Stokes and Captain Shawna Goulding, corps officer and divisional youth secretary, together with the corps’ local officers, cut the ribbon. “This is the culmination of a long journey,” noted Commissioner McMillan in her remarks.

“This must be more than just bricks and mortar; it must be a place where the gospel is shared in community.”

Sing a New Song On Saturday evening, the CSS hosted a concert at the Hamilton Princess hotel with selections such as Just Like John, Take Me Back, They Could Not and It’s Me, O Lord, with soloist Melanie Vincent.

Emcee Beverly Daniels kept the crowd in good humour as she introduced the performers, which included Bermudian Patrisse Simmons who ministered in dance with The Best in Me and Gracefully Broken, to the delight of the crowd. The Bermuda Divisional Band (BM Warren Jones) energized the evening with the march Cairo Red Shield and the more contemplative They Shall Come From the East. The audience got into the action, clapping and dancing along as the CSS worship team led a lively time of praise and worship.

Prior to his message, Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary, regaled the crowd with The Carpenters’ Top of the World, a song of devotion to his wife, and Staff

(left) The Bermuda Divisional Band, along with some Canadian supporters, are led by BM Warren Jones

Comr Susan McMillan addresses the congregation at the Sunday morning meeting

(right) Comr Susan McMillan, Mjr Sandra Stokes and Cpt Shawna Goulding cut the ribbon on the extension of West End CC

Songster Steve Cooper jokingly offered him a festival tunic. Colonel Hill then noted that we all need to “sing a new song” to the Lord and related how Psalm 33 provides a good roadmap for how we approach worship.

Go in the Strength of the Lord Sunday morning worship was livestreamed across the territory and included a farewell ceremony for Commissioner McMillan. Colonel Edward Hill noted, “God deserves our best and the territorial commander has lived that out with every word, thought and deed.” He noted that just as the islands of Bermuda are scattered like pearls in the ocean, so, too, the commissioner’s influence has been like a

string of PEARLs, demonstrating Purpose, Excellence, Action, Relationships and Love.

A lso on Sunday, Major Kent Hepditch, corps officer, Hamilton’s North Street Citadel, testified of his time at the International College for Officers, the North Street Singing Company sang You Make Me Brave, and long-serving employees and volunteers ChandraLee Bascome (business manager) and Delano Ingham (St. George’s Corps) were acknowledged.

In her message, Commissioner McMillan picked up the weekend theme, noting, “There is so much more to do for the kingdom, and Christ invites us to go into the world to represent him. We

need to let people know that God loves them with his whole heart. We need to go—now!” Appropriately, Major Stokes led the congregation in the singing of I’ll Go in the Strength of the Lord to conclude the service.

The final event of the weekend was a concert at St. George’s Corps at the east end of the island, which was not dampened by the gloomy skies. The mayor of St. George’s, His Worship George Dowling III, and Renée Ming, member of Parliament, brought greetings. After a rousing performance by the CSS, Major Len Ballantine, leader of the CSS, conducted the congregation in a concluding sing-along, He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.

Salvationist December 2019 13

Photos: Lionel Cann, Euanne Fox, Lt-Col John P. Murray, Geoff Moulton

(above) Mjr Sandra Stokes welcomes everyone to St. George’s Corps

The story of Christ’s birth is so remarkable, it needed to be expressed in song.

BY MAJOR BRUCE POWER

M

ost of us are familiar with the central song of the Christmas story. A reference to shepherds living in the fields, whiling away night hours, sets the scene. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appears, the glory of God shines and the shepherds are terrified. The angel announces “good news that will cause great joy for all the people,” the birth of a Saviour, the Messiah. Then a great company of the heavenly host appears and bursts forth in song: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests” (see Luke 2).

It is a joyous celebration, a fervent proclamation that tears through the separation between divine and human realms with a transformative message.

God’s desire to fill the entire cosmos with his blessing and peace seems clear.

Prose tells stories and develops discourse. Poetry paints pictures and invites engagement. The songs of Christmas— expressions of marvel and wonder, embedded in narrative—call us to fresh contemplation of the divine and human.

The gospel was born in song.

Zechariah’s Song The initial chapters of Luke describe events surrounding the birth of Jesus, and carefully intertwine song and story in character description. First, John the Baptist’s birth is described in a manner that mirrors the birth of Isaac to Abraham 14 December 2019 Salvationist

and Sarah, a child given by God when human conception seemed impossible.

Luke provides significant markers in the narrative description of Zechariah. An elderly priest chosen by divine lot to do service within the temple, he encounters the angel of God. He and his wife, Elizabeth, like Abraham and Sarah of old, have lived the pain of lifelong barrenness, all hope of an heir set aside.

But now a son is announced. A son who will be a prophet “in the spirit and power of Elijah.” This prophet will “make ready a people prepared for the Lord”’ (Luke 1:17). Like Abraham, Zechariah questions the divine promise. “How can I be sure of this?” (Luke 1:18). Zechariah is struck mute in his unbelief, but when John is born, “his mouth was opened ... and he began to speak, praising God” (Luke 1:64), his words filled with allusions to and citations of Israel’s hymnic and prophetic tradition. It is song generated in partnership between the Spirit of God and pious human reflection: “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them. He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David” (Luke 1:68-69).

The editorial note at the conclusion of Zechariah’s song reinforces John’s role as the renewed and final prophetic voice of old Israel: “And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly

to Israel” (Luke 1:80). It is the climactic song of the old era.

Mary’s Song While the birth of John and its wondrous mystery mirrors the story of the birth of Isaac, demonstrating the incredible power of God to transform barrenness, the birth of Jesus to a young girl, a virgin, is even more incomprehensible. It is the start of the glorious work of redemption, intended to bless Israel and “all peoples on earth” (Genesis 12:3).

We read of Mary’s embrace of her role in this divine plan—“I am the Lord’s servant” (Luke 1:38)—but it is when Elizabeth, filled with the Spirit, blesses Mary, that the young woman bursts into song: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name” (Luke 1:46-49).

Luke’s narrative balances male and female prophetic witness. Both young, virginal Mary and old, childless Zechariah question: “How can this be?” (see Luke 1:18, 34), yet they open themselves to the possibilities of God’s newness, to the transformation of their world to achieve the purposes of God. These songs of Mary and Zechariah precede the song of the celestial choir, and with the song of Simeon on the eighth day of Jesus’ life,

Illustration: OlgaPtashko/iStock via Getty Images Plus

The First Noel

frame and highlight the divine chorus.

Simeon’s Song Simeon recognized the events unfolding before him, for the Holy Spirit had revealed to him “that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah” (Luke 2:26). Holding infant Jesus in the temple courts, he declares: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).

The parents marvel and wonder at these words and Simeon’s counsel that their child will “cause the falling and rising of many” and be “a sign that will be spoken against” and a revealer of hearts (Luke 2:34-35). To Mary, he says, “And a sword will pierce your own soul, too” (Luke 2:35). His affirmation is confirmed by the prophet Anna, who “gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem” (Luke 2:38).

reflections of these songs celebrate the transformation of barrenness and the wonder of life emerging in circumstances that defy comprehension. They remember the birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah, breaking through decades of barrenness and infertility. Elizabeth and Zechariah’s lives replay this narrative of sterility, rendered all the more tragic as it nuances the quiet desperation of the people of God in an era of Roman occupation. The birth of Jesus anticipates the newness of life and resurrection power that will launch a new era.

Paul and early Christian hymnists reflect on the work of redemption through the cross and Christ’s Resurrection in poetic form, but Luke’s concern is to tell this part of the story as achingly raw narrative. Luke’s second volume begins to describe what these events mean for the world as the risen Christ declares: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

The Story of Redemption The story of Christ’s birth is so remarkable that it requires lyrical outpourings.

The prophetic allusions and poetic

To Express the Inexpressible The wonder expressed in Spirit-driven and directed song is not to be understood as divine dictation. The words flow out of

For those who are new to preaching, Sermons That Illuminate is a new book by Major Dale W. Pilgrim that serves as a foundational text for sermon preparation. For long-time ministers of the Word, it’s a call to get “back to basics,” to rediscover the holy calling of presenting biblical truth. This book explores the various genres of Scripture and examines methods and models of preaching from “the greats.” It also looks inward to consider the importance of wellness and self-care, with suggestions for moving toward healthy preaching.

Whether you’re a veteran preacher or preaching your first sermon, you’ll be invigorated as you explore the art of preaching.

deep reflection on the ways and work of God, the Spirit affirming and nuancing the deepest attempts at conveying the inexpressible. And so, too, does Scripture anticipate the resonance of the reader who is open to the nudging and inspiration of God’s Spirit, transforming these reflections of someone else’s encounter with God in the remote and inaccessible past, to empowering words of prophetic currency.

These are songs intended to transform barrenness, to excite hope, to anticipate transformation, to enable us to discover with fresh intensity the work of God in our world, the power of resurrection in our lives, the presence of Jesus in our world.

This Spirit-evoked discourse describes the central event of human history, the Incarnation—God’s grace and substance manifest in human body, and the unveiling of the divine plan. But the incomprehensible plan, shrouded in mystery for ages, now manifest in the birth of a child, announced by angels, witnessed by mortals, attested by prophets, remains unfathomable at its core.

God is with us. Immanuel.

Major (Dr.) Bruce Power is a retired Salvation Army officer and an adjunct professor of biblical studies at Booth University College in Winnipeg.

Now Available From Triumph Publishing

“ A remarkably researched resource for any student preacher or seasoned veteran who wants to improve or revive their ministry.”

— Lt-Colonel Jamie Braund, Divisional Commander, B.C. Division

Visit store.salvationarmy.ca to order your copy.

Also available in Kindle through Amazon.ca.

Salvationist December 2019 15

NOT CALLED?

Hopes and Dreams Janelle Colbourne was at a low point in her life.

What could take away her pain?

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

J

anelle Colbourne sat on the edge of her bed, sobbing. She felt overwhelmed, unable to cope with what was happening in her life.

“God, take this brokenness away from me,” she cried. “I can’t handle it on my own anymore.”

Head First Colbourne’s parents are Salvation Army officers and she grew up in the church. While she and her parents have lived in Ontario, British Columbia, and Newfoundland and Labrador, she considers the latter province to be her home.

Colbourne became a senior soldier when she was 16.

“I’ve always known who Jesus was, and I could have been enrolled when I was 14, but I had taken that covenant seriously enough to want to fully understand its implications. I’m stubborn that way!” she smiles.

Her parents, Majors Rex and Darlene Colbourne, were supportive of her decision.

“They never pressured me to have a relationship with God or into becoming a soldier,” she says. “They encouraged me and loved me throughout my journey.”

So when the corps she was attending offered soldiership courses, Colbourne registered. But even while taking the courses, she was undecided—until one night.

Colbourne dreamt that she was standing on a lakefront dock, poised to dive into the water.

“I was hesitating, which didn’t make sense because I love the water and I’m a good swimmer,” she explains. “When I awoke the next morning, I realized the dream was about soldiership: Was I going to take this leap of faith and jump in head first?

“God wanted me to take that next step in my relationship with him.”

16 December 2019 Salvationist

She did and did not regret it.

“It was the best decision I could have made.”

In early 2017, a grandfather passed away from lung cancer and a grandmother was also diagnosed with it later in the year.

While her grandmother is now cancerfree, dealing with those health crises as well as a failed relationship took its toll.

“My personality is that of a nurturer,” she explains, “so I took on my grandparents’ pain and I struggled with anxiety.”

Things came to a head that January.

“I remember sitting on my bed and praying, ‘I’ve tried to live this life my way. I can’t continue anymore. Whatever it is you have for my life, I’m totally surrendering that to you. Just take it. I’m done.’ ” It was then the idea of joining the candidates’ fellowship came to mind.

“It hadn’t occurred to me before,” Colbourne says, “so I contacted my corps officer, Captain Steven Holland. I needed to pursue this.”

Colbourne attended an Officership Information Weekend at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg, which helped her accept God’s call to officership. “Every step of the process, I felt overwhelming peace and contentment.

I knew that this was the calling that has been placed on my life.”

Stepping to Officership When Colbourne’s parents were moved from St. John’s, N.L., to Gander, N.L., she chose not to move with them.

“I felt I was being called to Ontario,” she says.

With an aunt and uncle living in Windsor, Ont., Colbourne accepted a position as a housing support services caseworker at The Salvation Army Chatham-Kent Ministries in nearby Chatham, Ont. “I was feeling the call to come here,” she says, “and it’s been such a great learning experience.”

But she was at a low point in her life this past January.

“I felt alone and broken,” she says.

Called to Ministry Colbourne is now in the second phase of the candidate’s process, awaiting psychological and medical appointments, with the aim of attending the College for Officer Training in the future.

“I feel that everyone is called to ministry, to spreading the gospel in his or her own way,” she believes. “But for me, I’ve grown up in the church, I’ve ministered in the church, I’ve worked at The Salvation Army, and I’ve been content with those phases of my life.

“I just feel that God’s calling me to another form of ministry, and he’s equipping me for that,” she says. “I’m so happy with where I am right now.”

“I realized that God wanted me to take that next step in my relationship with him.”

Janelle Colbourne

FRESH IDEAS

“She means everything to me. She keeps me going,” says Marcia about her dog, Peaches

Noah’s Ark

The animals go marching two-by-two at a pet-friendly shelter in Abbotsford, B.C.

BY GISELLE RANDALL

Photo: Giselle Randall

I

n Abbotsford, B.C., The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope offers a place of shelter and safety, not only for people without a home, but also their animals. Since becoming a “pet-friendly” shelter in October 2014, they’ve welcomed dogs, cats, rabbits, birds—even a lizard and a tarantula.

“We opened the door to pets because we found ourselves turning people away,” says Al Breitkreuz, program manager, shelter, outreach and family services. “For some people, a pet is an important part of their survival, something that keeps them going. They shouldn’t have to give that up so they can sleep indoors.”

Mary (not her real name) is an elderly woman with the onset of dementia. “She’s had her Shih Tzu, Daisy, for 14 years.

She needs this little dog,” says Breitkreuz. “If there was no petfriendly shelter available, where would she go?”

Along with meeting an immediate need, the shelter provides access to vital resources for those in the midst of challenging circumstances.

After identifying this barrier to service, shelter staff considered the practical questions involved in having animals in the building. Were there health and safety concerns? What about noise? Could they keep the shelter clean?

“We came up with a policy to address these issues, and all pet owners are asked to sign a contract outlining their expectations and responsibilities,” he says.

“Ultimately, the owner is accountable for the actions and behaviour of their pet.”

The shelter allows two fur-bearing animals at one time. Owners are responsible to feed, walk and clean up after their pet, keep them under control at all times and be respectful of others in the community, as well as local bylaws.

At night, pets sleep outside in a large kennel, with an insulated doghouse, donated by Petcetera. During the day, they can be inside with their owner, but must wear a leash— and possibly a muzzle—when in common areas. Pets aren’t permitted in the kitchen or dining room, unless they are service animals.

“On one hand, pets are a bit of extra work, but on the other

hand, they also make our lives easier—it goes both ways,” says Breitkreuz. “Research suggests that the presence of pets in a shelter can bring equilibrium. When clients are sitting around in the evening, watching TV, and there’s a dog at their feet—that’s a beautiful thing. Everyone loves that.”

On rare occasions, shelter staff have felt an animal was being mistreated and called the SPCA. “But for the most part, there’s such a positive, caring bond,” he says.

Although having a pet can make it more difficult to find housing, this bond helps. “The responsibility that comes with owning and taking care of a pet provides so much balance in a person’s life,” he says. “It gives them the motivation to get housed. We’ve found that our housing rate is actually higher for people with pets than people without.”

Breitkreuz recommends that other Salvation Army shelters consider becoming pet-friendly. “Our mission is to meet the needs of as many people as we possibly can, and for the most part, this entire project is working well,” he says. “There may be reasons why some shelters can’t, but if it’s just because you’re afraid of the mess, then you need to look into the benefits, because it’s worth it.”

“When clients are sitting around in the evening, watching TV, and there’s a dog at their feet—everyone loves that.”

Salvationist December 2019 17

Everything Is Possible Through her testimony, Beatriz Alvaran gives hope to newcomers at Montreal Citadel.

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

W

Invisible Suitcase Before they immigrated to Canada, Alvaran, her husband and two young girls had a happy life in Colombia, until local mobsters started harassing them.

“We had good jobs and everything we needed, but in Colombia, when these people know that you are living well, they start asking you for money,” Alvaran explains. “If you don’t do that, they will take your properties, everything you own, or even kill you and your family.

“So when they said that we had to work for them, we said no,” she continues, “and we had to run away immediately.”

When they arrived in Canada, the family stayed with Hayde Rojas, a good friend who was the only person they knew in Montreal. It was a particularly difficult time for Alvaran.

“When I came from Colombia, I brought with me an invisible suitcase— full of many dreams, hopes and wishes, and all the things that hurt,” she shares.

“I talked with Hayde about my invisible 18 December 2019 Salvationist

“This church is my family,” says Beatriz Alvaran, a member of Montreal Citadel

suitcase and how heavy it was, and she invited me to her church.”

Coming from a Catholic background, Alvaran was surprised when Rojas brought her to Montreal Citadel.

“I was kind of scared when I saw it

was not Catholic, but she said, ‘Don’t worry. This is a nice place,’ so I said OK and stayed there,” Alvaran shares. “And with tears in my heart, I emptied all my invisible suitcase. When I finished, I felt different.”

Photos: Arnau Cunties Farràs

orking in community and family services at Montreal Citadel, Beatriz Alvaran meets people like herself nearly every day.

“As with so many of them, I am also an immigrant,” she says, “and so I put myself in the same shoes as each family that comes to my office and let them see that everything is possible if we first have Jesus in our lives.”

It’s a bold statement of hope—and a testament to how God has transformed Alvaran’s life since she arrived in Canada in 2006.

“The blessings spill from my hand every day,” Alvaran says. “That doesn’t mean I don’t have problems—of course, I do. But I can say that I have no problems because they are all in the hands of my God.”

Alvaran meets with Rocio Paez and her daughter, Samantha, at Montreal Citadel

instrumental in bringing new people to church almost every Sunday,” notes Captain Gleadall.

The Next Step Although she had that powerful experience at the corps, Alvaran still felt somewhat unsure about The Salvation Army because it was such a change from what she was used to. But she decided to keep attending and started volunteering with community and family services. In 2007, she started working at Montreal Citadel as a receptionist.

Over time, Alvaran began to feel more comfortable with the Army, so when a friend asked her if she’d like to attend a women’s camp at Lac l’Achigan in 2008, she accepted gladly. It was while she was at camp that everything finally clicked.

“I found that the Army was so different, so nice,” she recalls. “In the Catholic Church, we would receive communion every Sunday, bread and wine. At the Army, the communion was to share with people. People that you have never seen before in your life welcome you, they start speaking with you. For me, that made an impact.”

At Camp Lac l’Achigan, Alvaran discovered she was ready to take the next step in her relationship with God. “When the pastor said, ‘Somebody wants to become a Christian here,’ immediately I went to the front and I gave my heart to the Lord.”

Saving Relationship That experience at camp was a turning point for Alvaran and her understanding of faith.

“I know now that to be a Christian is the doorway to a special relationship with

God,” she says. “It’s having someone who really cares for you, who loves you with a love that heals your hurts and gives you the strength for life. I feel that God is my best friend and my loving Father.”

Alvaran has found the perfect outlet to share God’s love with others at Montreal Citadel’s community and family services, where she has been an intervention worker since 2010.

“One day, one of my clients said, ‘I’m looking for a church,’ and suddenly I started speaking about the Salvation Army church, which is in the same building,” she says. “I talk to my clients about the way I fell in love with God and I invite them to be part of the church family because I say, ‘This is my family.’

When we came to this country alone, we had no family here, and this church welcomed us.”

“Beatriz’s goal is to not only give her clients physical things, such as food and clothing,” says Captain Colleen Gleadall, corps officer. “She makes showing them the sanctuary a part of their first intake meeting in order to open the door to the possibility of a saving relationship with Christ.”

For Alvaran, evangelism is simply a matter of sharing her own experience.

“When I start speaking about the invisible suitcase, they immediately have tears in their eyes,” she says. “I say, ‘If you want, I can unpack that suitcase with you, at the mercy seat we have in the church.’ ” Time and again, Alvaran’s clients accept her invitation. “Beatriz has been

A Real Family About eight years ago, Alvaran felt called to step out in faith again, this time by starting a Spanish Bible study at the corps. Since the beginning, the group has attracted a strong crowd and now averages 30 to 40 people every week.

“I am always thanking God because it’s a gift,” she says. “I invite people to church and to Bible study and they show up. I’ve seen people become Christians in our Bible study, people become soldiers in The Salvation Army. This is so good!”

Ministries such as the Bible study have had a major impact on the congregation as a whole. Today, about 35 to 40 percent of Montreal Citadel’s members speak Spanish as their first language and the corps has purchased a translation system to help these members feel included in the services.

“Sometimes we read the gospel in Spanish, and we sing in Spanish and English,” says Alvaran. “We try not to discriminate against the people who speak Spanish so that people feel like real family.”

Alvaran’s passion to see others find hope in Christ infuses all of her ministry at Montreal Citadel—in both the corps setting and her role at community and family services.

“Every day, I start by praying in my office for an hour in the morning,” she notes. “I say, ‘God, lead me this day. Put the right words in my mouth to speak with the people. When I speak with them, may they hear your voice, not my voice.’ ” While fleeing her home country and starting a new life in Canada is not what Alvaran would have envisioned for her life, she believes it was God’s plan for her.

“This beautiful country gave us the opportunity to be here,” she says. “I think that the purpose in my life is to be here with my family. I am a very different person than I was before because now I have God in my heart.”

Salvationist December 2019 19

Apostles in the Digital Realm How to livestream services at your corps.

BY DAVID THORNBURROW, WITH KRISTIN OSTENSEN Livestreaming can help your corps reach someone who is not willing to attend church in a traditional setting— yet. Maybe someday they will decide to attend your church or another church.

Your livestreamed service could be what brings them to God.

The London Citadel Setup

Q&A with David Thornburrow, livestream ministry co-ordinator When did the citadel start livestreaming?

April 2019.

The livestreaming setup at London Citadel, Ont.

C

hurches today are always trying to present themselves as attractive places for families to worship, and technology can be a powerful tool to help bring in new people. As families grow increasingly connected online through social media, online shopping, news websites and streaming video services such as Netflix and YouTube, more and more churches are livestreaming their services to adapt to their needs and expectations.

My corps, London Citadel, Ont., started livestreaming its services in April.

The idea came to me after a conversation I had with Jeremy Parking, supervising producer for Rogers TV in London. The topic of livestreaming came up and he mentioned how few churches in London record and submit their services to Rogers to be broadcast on the local station. I teach video and TV broadcasting at a high school so it was as if a light bulb turned on. I felt that I was being called to produce a livestream ministry for London Citadel.

So why should your corps livestream its services? Here are just a few reasons: Marketing to new members. People in

your area who are “church shopping” will investigate your corps online before attending. Consequently, having an appealing web presence with a welcoming website is essential. A livestream 20 December 2019 Salvationist

allows people to “test drive” your service to see if your church matches their beliefs.

Maintaining a connection with congregation members who cannot attend.

Livestreaming provides a convenient way to attend worship remotely for those who work shifts or travel for business.

It is also helpful for those who cannot attend due to illness or disability and for people who are less mobile, such as the elderly.

Extending church membership beyond the walls of the building. Your mem-

bership could include people who live in another city, province or continent.

Extending the reach of special events, such as music concerts or youth services. Those who cannot attend in per-

son can watch from their home, such as a grandmother in Newfoundland and Labrador who wants to watch her grandchild’s year-end youth band performance.

Spreading the gospel. Most import-

antly, livestreaming your service is a great way to share the Word of God with the world. In our case, London Citadel is very musical—we have a respected band and top-notch songsters. Livestreaming enables us to use their talents for outreach.

Describe your setup.

We have two remote-controlled robotic cameras placed in the back corners of the sanctuary, which can zoom, pan and tilt, with another stationary camera placed in the centre, which provides a single wide shot.

What software do you use?

A high-end computer runs vMix, which does all of the video switching, controls the cameras and streams the video to YouTube. vMix also interacts with a preprogrammable keypad (X-keys) where you can push a button to send the camera to a pre-programmed position.

For example, if you press the “Camera 1: Band Wide Shot” button or “Camera 2: Pulpit Close Up” button, it will send the camera to the appropriate position.

Additional magic has been added to the production. Images or video displayed on the projection screens can be displayed in the livestream in either full screen or in the corner. This way, congregational song lyrics can be displayed on the stream as the hymn is sung, or a video for Partners in Mission can be shown without zooming in on the projection screen.

Where is the service broadcast?

On our YouTube channel. Then I share the YouTube link on the corps’ Facebook page.

How many views do you get each week?

We average about 350 views for each service.

How much did your setup cost?

We had a $10,000 budget and came in just under that.

Watch London Citadel’s services on YouTube at youtube.com/ londoncitadel.

The Conception Bay South Corps, N.L., Setup

Q&A with Roxanne Tucker, livestream ministry co-ordinator When did your corps start livestreaming?

April 2015.

How has your setup evolved over the years?

We started recording services five years ago with just one handheld video camera. At first, it wasn’t a livestream— we’d tape the services and then upload them to our Facebook page. Four years ago, we got two handheld cameras and started using Wirecast and Sunday

Streams to broadcast live. The cameras were mounted, but someone had to move them around manually, as needed, during the services.

Last December, we made a major upgrade. We bought three new cameras—two for the sanctuary and one for outside, so we can livestream our open-air services. As part of this upgrade, we also purchased a new projector.

What software do you use?

We have a Mac computer that runs Wirecast. Using this program, we can control the movement of the cameras, switching between different pre-set views (e.g., pulpit, band, etc.). No more moving the cameras like we did with the handheld ones! (laughs)

watching from all over the world—the United States, United Kingdom, China, Russia. It’s a wonderful outreach.

How much did your setup cost?

Around $15,500 in total—about twothirds for the indoor setup, and onethird for the outdoor setup.

What advice would you give to corps that are interested in starting up a livestream ministry?

I’d say, “Go for it!” There are people out there who won’t go inside a church but need to hear the gospel and this is one way to get the message to them.

Watch Conception Bay South’s services at salvationarmyincbs.com/ live-streaming.

Where is the service broadcast?

Using Sunday Streams, we livestream to both our Facebook page and our website because we find Facebook sometimes has glitches.

How many views do you get each week?

We get up to 10,000 views—sometimes even more. That includes people watching live and during the week following the service. We have people

The Salvation Army’s ethical giving campaign offers a variety of gift items that continue to make a world of difference in the lives of others.

Education

Health

May this season of joy bring hope to our friends around the world.

Give the gift of hope this Christmas!

Communities

Farming

salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope

Salvationist December 2019 21

have been composed over the years can continue past Christmas right through to Epiphany on January 6, when we focus on the coming of the Magi from the East to worship the Christ Child. There are 12 days between Christmas Day and Epiphany, and parts of the church have acknowledged this Christmas season for centuries.

To acknowledge the 12 days of Christmas would allow us to “treasure and ponder” the deep significance of the birth of Jesus, the Saviour of the world (see Luke 2:19). Let’s begin by brainstorming some ways to extend Christmas from a one-day celebration to a 12-day season.

More than a partridge in a pear tree.

BY MAJOR CATHIE HARRIS

Illustration: shelma1/iStock via Getty Images

F

or The Salvation Army, Christmas is our North Star, a time of tremendous opportunity to live out our mission of being a “transforming influence in our communities.” It is our busiest season of the year, calling on all our skills in planning, partnering and fundraising. There are hampers, kettles and visits to nursing homes and correctional institutions. There are children’s concerts and various Christmas dinners.

In the midst of this are the four Sundays of Advent, a time of waiting and watching for the “main event”—Christmas Day. We arrive at December 25, grateful to have offered hope and served so many people with dignity but also, to be honest, exhausted and relieved that it’s over. But Christmas Day is actually the beginning, not the end, of a season.

Acknowledging Advent has become much more prevalent in The Salvation Army over the past 30 years. Growing up, I was unaware of it—I had never even heard the word. But as the Army experienced worship renewal, along with the rest of the church, we began to pay greater attention to the Christian calendar: Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Pentecost and Ordinary Time.

Being intentional about this rhythm enriches our worship and helps us find our place in God’s story.

22 December 2019 Salvationist

Perhaps it’s time to push ourselves a bit further, to embrace another aspect of the church year. What would happen if we celebrated Christmas as a season rather than a day? Society around us builds to Christmas Day, then quickly moves on, turning to Boxing Day sales and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Christmas is over.

“

To acknowledge the 12 days of Christmas would allow us to ‘treasure and ponder’ the deep significance of the birth of Jesus.

”

But that is not true for followers of Jesus. The birth of Christ was the climax of God’s plan to redeem the world, the time when God moved into the neighbourhood: “The Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory” (John 1:14 NRSV). Surely this is worth more attention than one day.

The biblical stories surrounding the birth of Jesus and the rich carols that

•• New Year’s Eve falls within the Christmas season—what difference does Christ’s birth make to the way we begin the new year? What are the implications for us personally and for our worship on the first Sunday in January?

•• Consider moving at least one Christmas activity to one of the 12 days of Christmas. For example, many seniors’ homes have numerous groups coming in to do programs and distribute treats in December, but the time after Christmas Day can be a real letdown. What if we visited after December 25, but still during the Christmas season?

•• We could spread out gift-giving over the 12 days of Christmas within our families.

•• We could focus our devotional time each day on the impact of Christ’s birth on us and our ministry for the coming year. Rather than rushing ahead, as we often do, we could take time to “treasure and ponder” the gift of Jesus, as Mary did.

The journey of the Magi, as they followed the star in the east, took a lot of travel time. When they arrived, they were ready to worship the infant Jesus and present their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. As we extend Christmas, we may discover, both personally and corporately, a deeper and wider understanding of God’s incredible gift to us, the Word who “became flesh … full of grace and truth” (John 1:14 NRSV).

Major Cathie Harris is a retired Salvation Army officer who lives in Winnipeg.

Illustration: DNY59/E+ via Getty Images

TAKING THE LEAD

Character Counts Leadership begins with self-awareness.

BY PAUL CAREW AND CAPTAIN RUTH GILLINGHAM

H

ave you ever jumped to a conclusion before gathering all of the facts? When someone is late for a meeting, misses an important deadline or fails to keep a promise, sometimes we make assumptions about why without all the necessary information. We move from thought to action without being self-aware and managing our emotions.

The ability to lead ourselves in all circumstances is a key aspect of leadership.

The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda has adopted the LEADS Leadership Capability Framework as a strategic approach to leadership development (visit salvationist.ca/leads). In this series, we will explore each of the five capability domains, beginning with LEAD SELF: self-motivated leaders are self-aware, develop themselves, manage themselves and demonstrate character.

Captain Ruth Gillingham, while in the position of divisional youth secretary for the Alberta and Northern Territories Division, attended a LEADS learning series. Here, she shares her experience with LEAD SELF in the context of Salvation Army camping ministry: The Salvation Army’s camping ministry is one of the most effective ways we have of discipling our young people.

They are entrusted with the missional

responsibility of proclaiming the truth of Jesus Christ and overseeing the welfare of children who often present with many complex needs.

Our young leaders are expected to demonstrate behaviour that reflects The Salvation Army’s code of conduct and, more importantly, biblical standards of compassion, self-control, kindness, gentleness and goodness, to name a few.

These are challenging expectations for young people who are still navigating their own physical, psychological and spiritual development, and especially in the context of intense community. Camp is a highly social environment where individuals are in contact with one another for long periods of time without a break. Often staff work together, eat together, sleep in the same cabin and do not have a lot of space to decompress.

The LEADS framework has been an effective way to help young staff develop in the area of leading self, especially in relation to co-workers and campers. The “ladder of inference” has been a constructive tool to help develop self-awareness in staff, by learning to understand the thinking process they go through, usually

without realizing it, to get from an observation to a decision or action.

The thinking stages are depicted as rungs on a ladder. By teaching individuals to slow down and reflect before moving from thought to action, many interpersonal conflicts and poor behavioural choices are averted. The ladder of inference has been used to help individuals become aware of their own thoughts and reasoning. It is also used to help individuals become aware of the reasoning process of others, thereby helping expand their understanding of other people’s motives. It teaches them to actively engage others in conversation by choosing the option of positive inquiry (asking questions) rather than jumping to conclusions.

When conflict arises in the camp setting, we can then address each situation by using a shared language and process to look at the situation and use it as a place of learning and growth.

As we look to the future, the development of young leaders is fundamental to The Salvation Army, and it must begin with the development of self. What is true for young leaders is also true for the most experienced.

Paul Carew is the leadership development secretary. Captain Ruth Gillingham is the corps officer at Cascade Community Church in Abbotsford, B.C.

Ladder of Inference

Actions Beliefs Conclusions Assumptions Meaning/Interpretation Filtering/Selected Reality Experience/Observation/Reality

Salvationist December 2019 23

VIEWPOINT

Christmas in Conflict How to survive difficult family relationships during the holidays.

BY DARRYN OLDFORD

24 December 2019 Salvationist

gest seeking help for serious issues. What I can offer is insight based on countless conversations I have had with friends who have difficult family relationships, but still want to get together over the holidays.

your buttons the wrong way. It’s best to figure out how much contact you are both comfortable with, and then make those boundaries clear. This may also mean limiting your visit to an hour or two.

1. Don’t curse them. As Christians, we are held to a higher standard than the world and should not exchange evil words with one another. This is doubly true when it comes to your family. If all else fails, fall back on your kindergarten education and remember that “if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Repaying hatred with hatred just makes everyone angry and upset.

4. Remember that you are an imagebearer of the divine, of infinite worth and value. God loves you and wants

2. In gentle humility, do your best to prevent yourself from being attacked.

If you do find yourself on the defensive around family, it’s acceptable to disengage. Don’t let yourself be the scapegoat. Often, the most loving thing you can do when someone is being combative is to simply walk away.

3. Draw healthy boundaries. Even the

most well-meaning relatives can push

you to take care of yourself. Regardless of our relationships with our earthly families, we have a heavenly Father who loves us and wants what is best for us.

For those trying to keep their head down and get through the holidays without arguing across the dining room table, I am praying for you. Proverbs 15:18 says, “A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” Seeking out counselling, whether religious or secular, is vital to help deal with present or past pain and learn better communication skills. But for the time being, I wish you a Merry Christmas and, when necessary, silent nights.

Darryn Oldford is a senior soldier in Toronto.

Photo: AntonioGuillem/iStock via Getty Images

C

hristmas is coming, and that means time with family. I am blessed to be part of a group of people who look forward to seeing as much of our immediate and extended family as possible. I recognize through talking to friends, however, that not everyone can say the same.

For many families, there will be someone sitting at the table who is acting more like a turkey than the one on a platter.

All of us have someone in our lives who can get on our nerves, but the problem is amplified when it’s a family member and they are difficult to avoid. It could be a sister who criticizes every area of your life or a brother who always speaks in an argumentative tone. Sometimes the relationship can be acrimonious in both directions and sometimes a person is just exhausting to be around.

If you feel alone in not looking forward to family get-togethers over the holidays, remember that the Bible is filled with more family feuds than daytime television. Some examples include Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers, David and his father-in-law, Saul, and, most notably, in my opinion, Job and his wife. It is telling that when the devil was torturing Job, he couldn’t think of a worse punishment than keeping Job’s wife alive and letting her continue to hound him. This is echoed in Proverbs 21:9: “Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” Some of these examples are more extreme than others, but the truth remains the same: family drama is as old as the Bible itself.

Scripture tells us to “show proper respect to everyone” (1 Peter 2:17).

Families should be respected even more, but how this respect is put into practice can vary. For me, respect means helping out whenever I can and listening to their advice. For others, it may mean sending a birthday or Christmas card once a year.

And for others still, it may mean silence, recognizing that reaching out would only cause a fight.

I am not a family counsellor and sug-

GRACE NOTES

Busking for Jesus Everyone can ring those bells.

BY CAPTAIN LAURA VAN SCHAICK

Photo: Joel Johnson

A

few years ago, commuters in Washington, D.C., were treated to world-class talent as renowned violinist Joshua Bell, disguised as a busker in blue jeans and a baseball cap, played his Stradivarius at a subway station during peak rush hour. After nearly an hour, only seven of the thousands of passersby had stopped to listen for more than a minute. Bell’s open violin case contained a mere $32.17.

I am no Bell, but I do enjoy playing my 1930s-vintage German-made violin.

I am especially fond of playing carols at Salvation Army Christmas kettles. In fact, it just doesn’t feel like the holiday season until I’ve played O Come All Ye Faithful in a Walmart. The acoustics in a grocery store are surprisingly pleasant, and there’s something exhilarating about performing publicly for a full two hours.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist

Gene Weingarten was the brain behind the Joshua Bell experiment, and he published a poignant article about it in The Washington Post. Before deconstructing the motives behind the decisions of passersby to respond or not, he notes that each person has a quick choice to make. Do they stop and listen or do they hurry by? Do they toss him a coin to be polite or do they feel guilt or irritation over another demand on their time and money?

I assume this conflict would only be magnified in the busyness of the holiday season, when I find myself standing beside a red kettle playing Jingle Bells with as much virtuoso as I can muster.

And yet, while most chose to walk past Joshua Bell that early January morning in Washington, I find that most people choose to listen to my carols and place some money in the kettle. Why is that?

Context is everything. Subway commuters expected to encounter an amateur entertainer doing their best to scrape together a few dollars, not a famous classical musician, and so they failed to see (or hear) the beauty before them.

Conversely, the proud heritage of The Salvation Army’s Christmas kettles helps to shape the response of shoppers who come across my humble performances.

The iconic Red Shield and familiarity of the festive melodies help to break through the incessant busyness of our culture to draw people in, and the results are extraordinary. Not only are monetary donations made, but community is formed. Passersby not only stop to listen, but often begin to participate, singing along or even dancing right in the foyer of the grocery store.

Of course, there are still those who become immediately interested in their shoes, doing their best to avoid eye contact, but there are even more who offer up a friendly smile, share a Christmas greeting, dig into their wallets, or wait until the conclusion of a song to share words of appreciation for the music or the ways that The Salvation Army has helped to give them hope. This response transcends gender, ethnicity or age. Such is the gift of music ministry at Christmas.

And it is a gift that we should not take for granted.

The Salvation Army’s Christmastime presence in shopping malls, nursing homes or hockey games is a privileged one, and the addition of music can break down barriers and pave the way for meaningful interaction and conversations of hope. It can open the door not only for a donation, but an opportunity to share about our mission and our love of Jesus, the reason for the season.

I was once asked by a child what I was doing, standing there in the grocery store with my fiddle. My response was that I was busking for Jesus. And honestly, we can all busk for Jesus.

Even if you don’t play a musical instrument or can’t carry a tune, everyone can ring those bells, place a smile on their face and wish people a “Merry Christmas.” In this way, we can all build community and give hope, one kettle shift at a time.

Captain Laura Van Schaick is the women’s ministries program and resource officer.

Salvationist December 2019 25

CROSS CULTURE

IN REVIEW

IN THE NEWS

Harriet, a new film

by Kasi Lemmons, tells the true story of Harriet Tubman, a slave who escaped in 1849 and then helped more than 300 others gain freedom through the Underground Railroad. As news spread of her heroic faith-fuelled journey, Harriet was given the iconic nickname of “Moses.” The film does not shy away from showing how her faith influenced her actions, depicting the visions she had and bringing a concrete spiritual dimension to the film. The film’s heroine is played

by Tony Award-winning actress, Cynthia Erivo (Widows), who gives an excellent performance. Her courage and tenacity changed the course of history and will inspire filmgoers and people of faith.

The Two Popes

The year is 2013. The Catholic Church is on the cusp of a major transition, as Pope Benedict (Sir Anthony Hopkins) is getting ready to retire and a new leader, Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Jonathan Pryce), is on the horizon. The Two Popes, a new film by Fernando Meirelles (City of God), brings these vastly different men together for an imagined behind-closed-doors meeting in which the two priests grapple with faith, leadership and the church’s role in the 21st century. The Pope and the cardinal represent a larger struggle in the church today between tradition and progress, as Benedict sees change as a threat while Cardinal Bergoglio believes the church must respond to the needs of the world today. The Two Popes is not all theological debate, however; the film is both emotional and comedic as the men tease each other and argue about soccer. While it examines two men’s pasts, the film’s chief concern is the church’s future.

Vatican Installs Sculpture by Canadian Artist Canadian sculptor Ti mot hy Schmalz made waves worldwide in 2013 when his bronze statue, Homeless Jesus, was installed at the University of Toronto’s Regis College. As the title suggests, the statue depicts Jesus as a homeless person sleeping on a bench.

Schmalz’s latest creation, Angels Unawares, takes a similar approach. The title references Hebrews 13:2 (ESV ): “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” The life-size sculpture, which was installed in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican in September, depicts a group of migrants and refugees standing together, huddled on a raft. A pair of angel’s wings emerges amid the centre of the group. As Vatican News reports, the sculpture demonstrates “that the sacred is to be found in the stranger, in this case, in refugees and migrants.”

Archaeologists Uncover 2,000-year-old Street in Jerusalem

An ancient walkway has been discovered in Jerusalem, which dates to the time of Jesus. As detailed in a new study published in Tel Aviv: Journal of the Institute of Archaeology of Tel Aviv University, researchers found more than 100 coins beneath the paving stones of the street that date it to approximately 31 CE. The coins provide strong evidence that the street was commissioned by Pontius Pilate, who was governor of Judea at that time.

The street—600 metres long and approximately eight metres wide—would have linked the Temple Mount and the Pool of Siloam, both of which are important sites for Christians. The Temple Mount has been considered a holy site for thousands of years, and the Pool of Siloam is where Jesus cured a man’s blindness.

ON THE WEB Munnday Mornings COLONEL RICHARD MUNN What we believe affects the way we live.

That’s the driving principle behind Munnday Mornings, a podcast from Colonel Richard Munn, director of The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission. As such, the podcast, which recently wrapped up its second season, seeks to establish sound doctrine. The first season looks at 26 December 2019 Salvationist

basic theological issues, beginning with the Scriptures and ending with end times, with the Trinity, sin, salvation and more in between. In season two, Colonel Munn applies that theological understanding to issues from everyday life. As befits his current position, he takes a Christian ethical perspective on issues such as alcohol, racism, sexism and the environment. Find Munnday Mornings on your preferred podcasting app or visit saconnects.org/munnday-mornings.

Photo: Vatican Media via twitter.com/elenacisella

Harriet

PEOPLE & PLACES

VICTORIA—Dawn Robertson is commissioned as the corps sergeant-major and Angela Brunwald is enrolled as an adherent at High Point CC. From left, Daniel Hobbs, holding the flag; Cpt Peter Hickman, then CO; Dawn Robertson; Angela Brunwald; and Cpt Laura Hickman, then CO.

SHERBROOKE, QUE.—Sherbrooke CC celebrates as two senior soldiers are enrolled. From left, Cpts Vilma Ramos and Ricaurte Velasquez, COs; Christophe Vandamme and Martha Ruth Ruiz Herrada, senior soldiers; CSM Johanne Roy, holding the flag; and Mjr Grant Effer, DC, Que. Div.

HAMILTON, BERMUDA—Chandra-Lee D. Bascome, business manager for The Salvation Army’s Bermuda Community Services, receives a certificate of appreciation from Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary, and Mjr Sandra Stokes, DC, Bermuda Div, in recognition of her longtime service as a social services employee. The presentation took place during the Bermuda divisional congress celebrations.

HAMILTON, BERMUDA— During the Bermuda divisional congress, Shonette Wilson is commissioned as the corps treasurer of West End CC, located in Sandys, Bermuda. Shown with her are Comr Susan McMillan, then territorial commander, and Cpt Shawna Goulding, CO.

Thank you for contributing to the 2019 Self-Denial Campaign.

Together, we raised

$ 2.1 million!

saworldmissions.ca Salvationist December 2019 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

HAMILTON, BERMUDA— Delano Ingham, a senior soldier from St. George’s Corps, Bermuda, receives a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his contributions to the Army’s work as a long-serving volunteer.

Making the presentation during the Bermuda divisional congress celebrations are Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary, and Mjr Sandra Stokes, DC, Bermuda Div.

BURLINGTON, ONT.— Tracey Killick is enrolled as an adherent at Burlington CC. From left, Mjr Ron Wickens, CO; Bill Downham, holding the flag; Tracey Killick; RS Brenda Cappus; and Mjr Judi Wickens, CO. BRACEBRIDGE, ONT.— Canadian Staff Songster Aidan Turley receives the Don Ballantine Award at Bracebridge CC for his faithful dedication to the kingdom of God through music and his example. Making the presentation is Mjr Len Ballantine, leader of the Canadian Staff Songsters.

GAZETTE

BURNABY, B.C.—From left, Marshall Moostoos Mitchell, Shareef Dabbagh, Merna Dabbagh and Lilly-Anne Moostoos Mitchell are the first junior soldiers to be enrolled at Harvest CC. The enrolment took place on the opening Sunday of the new corps.

INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Feb 1—Cols Mark/Julie Campbell, TC/TPWM, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Tty, with rank of comr; Lt-Col Winsome Merrett, CS, Australia Tty, with rank of col; Cols Man-Hee/Stephanie Chang, TC/TPWM, Korea Tty, with rank of comr; Lt-Cols Lee, Choong-Ho/Kim, Sook-Ja, CS/ TSWM, Korea Tty, with rank of col; Cols Kenneth/Paula Johnson, NCS/ NSWM, U.S.A. NHQ; Lt-Cols Philip/Deslea Maxwell, CS/TSWM, U.S.A. Eastern Tty, with rank of col; Mjr Tilitah Goa, CS, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Tty, with rank of lt-col TERRITORIAL Appointments: Mjrs Derrick/Judith Barrow, Moncton Citadel CC, N.B., Maritime Div; Mjr Linda McNutt, administrative assistant to the officer personnel secretary and assistant officer personnel secretary, THQ (additional responsibility); Aux-Cpt Glenna Cryderman, Meadow Lake, Sask., Prairie Div; Cpt Mark Stanley, assistant to the territorial secretary for business administration, THQ Promoted to glory: Col Marion Ivany, Oct 3

CALENDAR

OTTAWA—Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries, share a moment with members of the Royal Canadian Legion at the annual presentation of the symbolic first poppy at Government House. The ceremony marked the beginning of the 2019 National Poppy Campaign.

28 December 2019 Salvationist

Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd: Nov 28–Dec 1 Bermuda Div; Dec 2 retired officers’ luncheon, Toronto; Dec 7 Santa Shuffle and Festival of Carols, Ottawa; Dec 14 Christmas With The Salvation Army, Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill: Dec 7 Santa Shuffle, Toronto; Dec 8 St. Catharines Corps, Ont.; Dec 14 Christmas With The Salvation Army, Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto; Dec 15-20 Christmas tour, Victoria, Calgary and Ottawa (Colonel Edward Hill only) Canadian Staff Band: Dec 14 Christmas With The Salvation Army, Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto Canadian Staff Songsters: Dec 14 Christmas With The Salvation Army, Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto

PEOPLE & PLACES

BARRIE, ONT.—Barrie Citadel celebrates as two senior soldiers and an adherent are enrolled. From left, Kelli Kane, senior soldier; Dave Henderson, adherent; Barb Henderson, senior soldier; and Cpt Andrew Watkinson, CO.

BARRIE, ONT.—Barrie Citadel is pleased to enrol and welcome six new adherents to its fellowship. From left, Cpt Andrew Watkinson, CO; Deanne Graham, Karen Allington, Sherri Hughes, Shirley Baurlein and George Mason, adherents; Bob Peddle, holding the flag; Paul Blain, adherent; and Mjr Deana Zelinsky, AC, Ont. CE Div.

BARRIE, ONT.—Barrie Citadel celebrates as three senior soldiers are enrolled.

From left, Cpt Andrew Watkinson, CO; Mjr Deana Zelinsky, AC, Ont. CE Div; David Kane; Will Watkinson; Bob Peddle, holding the flag; and Jake Reid.

BARRIE, ONT.—Six junior soldiers are enrolled at Barrie Citadel. From left, Logan Osmond; Emma Allington; Cpt Andrew Watkinson, CO; Seth Ranglack; Myah Graham; Joshua Graham; and Hayden Allington.

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SALVATION STORIES

Ground Zero

The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope in Halifax helped me rebuild my life.

BY CHRIS PILKINGTON

Photo: Heather Deighan

to university, but left before completing a degree to get married. We had two wonderful boys, Adam and Alex, the joys of my life. For years, I worked in accounting for several large organizations.

But after 19 years of marriage, mental illness took everything from me—my job, my home and my family. I moved back to Dartmouth feeling lost, vulnerable and alone.

After returning to Nova Scotia, I remarried. My mental health continued to decline, until I was committed to the hospital, where I was diagnosed and treated. Over the next 16 years, medication kept me groggy and disoriented, with no recollection of my abilities.

In 2008, I had surgery to remove a tumour, and in the recovery process, was taken off all medication. Under the care of a new psychiatrist, and with the right medication, I started to regain my life.

Unfortunately, my relationship was becoming increasingly hostile, culminating in the evening when an argument over finances ended with me being taken to the hospital. I was treated for a neck injury and bruises and released.

O

n the day I arrived at The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope in Halifax, I was at ground zero. I had spent the previous night in the emergency room at Dartmouth General Hospital, after my wife physically attacked me during an argument. I had nowhere to go. My nephew picked me up and brought me to the centre, which became a sanctuary for me—a place to rebuild.

New Life I was born in Dartmouth, N.S., the fifth of six children. It was a strict Catholic upbringing, with an abusive father and a mother who tried her best to protect and provide for us, but was often bedridden with health problems. We were told in no uncertain terms to keep silent about what was happening to us. As my dad pursued his career, we moved to Chatham, Ont., and then Ottawa.

We were expected to excel at school, and discipline ensured our best efforts. For my part, I was always good at math and science. As I got involved in school activities and started my first part-time job, it was easy to drift away from the church and my parents’ faith.

I graduated with awards and scholarships and moved on 30 December 2019 Salvationist

Fighting the Battle I stayed at the Centre of Hope for six months, where I slowly came out of my shell through the gentle counselling of the chaplain, Rev. John den Hollander. I began attending chapel daily, and a renewed spark of faith began to grow.

When I found my footing again in the apartment I now call home, I realized I was still drawn to the centre and its people. So I started volunteering, helping to sort toys into age-appropriate categories at Christmas, and working in the food room. Majors Ross and Doreen Grandy, who lead the community ministries, became close friends.

Captains Wayne and Elizabeth Knight, then corps officers at Halifax Citadel Community Church, started leading chapel at the centre once a week. Their easy-going nature and fresh approach drew me to The Salvation Army even more, and I began attending the corps. The flame of faith steadily increased.

I gave my life to Christ when I realized his teachings were exhibited in the ever-present love and care shown by all those I’d met at the centre and the corps. In April 2016, I became a senior soldier, which has strengthened my resolve to serve Christ in all aspects of my life, and in every setting.

Although I have struggled with my mental and physical health, God has given me strength. When I recently experienced Bell’s palsy and underwent eye surgery, I was grateful for the caring notes of support I received from many church members when I requested prayer.

I’ve slowed down over the last few years, but God isn’t finished with me yet. I’m still fighting the battle. I’ll continue volunteering at the Centre of Hope and at Connections Dartmouth, a mental health program, where I help to prepare lunch for those in need in the community. Connecting with people means everything to me now. I’m giving back what I’ve been given.

IF IT DOESN'T SIT RIGHT, STAND UP.

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