Retiring Canadian Staff Bandmaster goes out on a high note
FEATURES
10 / Curtain Call
The Canadian Staff Band presents Festival 56 honouring retiring Bandmaster John Lam. by Abbigail Oliver
12 / Top Brass
John Lam reflects on decades of ministry and why music is critical to the Army’s mission.
by Kristin Ostensen
14 / A Hidden-in-Plain-Sight Crime
Labour trafficking exists in Canada—and it’s closer to home than you think. by Jenea Gomez
18 / Campfire Conversations
Young Salvationists share the transformative power of working at camp. by Abbigail Oliver
21 / Good Innings
The Salvation Army in Bermuda celebrates freedom, faith and love during Cup Match. by Lieutenant Almeta Ward
I pray that The Salvation Army will never lose or abandon a sense of urgency in living its mission. Let’s always speak to people about Jesus, the joy of our salvation and the peace that comes from knowing him personally.
—COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES, PAGE 9
SALVATIONIST
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FOR THE RECORD
Well,I’m definitely starting to show my age. Last month, I purchased a good old-fashioned record player. My kids remind me that it’s a real throwback … “Just like you, Dad!” What’s funny is that, in some ways, I’m totally on trend. Though far from its glory days, vinyl is seeing a revival, with record stores popping up across the country. Last year, 6.1 million units were sold in North America, the most since 1990.
I still remember our family’s 1970s record collection. We would sit on the living room floor and sing along to Anne Murray, John Denver and the Muppets’ Christmas album, Zamfir (master of the pan flute!) and loads of Canadian Staff Band discs. Nothing beats the nostalgia of grabbing a record off the shelf and dropping the needle.
Music has the power to transport us. Victor Hugo, author of Les Misérables, wrote: “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” Can you think of a particular song or album that takes you back to a moment in time that moved you emotionally or spiritually? Sacred music is one way that we encounter God.
Bandmaster John Lam has spent a lifetime making music that stirs the soul. In this issue of Salvationist, we celebrate his legacy with the Canadian Staff Band as he retires and reflect on the success of their Festival 56 concert with soloist Jens Lindemann (page 10). In his capstone interview (page 12), Lam notes: “It is crucial to realize that our music ministry—the staff sections and any musical group in your own community—is one of the best evangelism tools that you could ever have.”
“Music has the power to transport us.”
This summer, those staff sections will be filling the world with Salvation Army music. The Canadian Staff Songsters, led by Cathie Koehnen, will embark on a United Kingdom tour in July in support of their new album, His Light in Us Read the full report in the next Salvationist. The Canadian Staff Band also has an album in the works and will be
visiting Alberta for a tour in early summer. Visit Trade Canada and Bermuda (store.salvationarmy.ca) in the coming days to get your copies of the recordings.
If you are reading this magazine, the reality is that you, too, are a fan of physical media. Though everything we print goes digital on Salvationist.ca, many still value leafing through a hard copy of the magazine. Our editorial team carefully plans all the news and features that ensure you are up to date on the ministry of The Salvation Army in this territory and beyond. When you are finished reading, pass this magazine along to your friends and family.
We’re here to help “keep the record straight.” Thanks for tuning in, and happy summer.
GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Booth UC Celebrates 43rd Convocation
Dignitaries, faculty and family gather to recognize the class of 2025.
BY SYLVESTER AWOJIDE
“Graduation is not the end—it is the beginning,” said Winnipeg’s Deputy Mayor Markus Chambers to the graduating class at the 43rd spring convocation ceremony of Booth University College (Booth UC) in April. “Carry forward the lessons, relationships and compassion you cultivated here.”
Held at Knox United Church in Winnipeg, the ceremony was attended by dignitaries from The Salvation Army and all levels of government, celebrating the achievements of the class of 2025. Among the Salvation Army leaders in attendance were Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander and Booth UC chancellor; Commissioner Debbie Graves, territorial president of women’s ministries; Colonel John Chamness, chief secretary and vicechair of the board at Booth UC; and David Michel, chair of the board.
Dr. Chris Trott, renowned anthropologist and retired warden of St. John’s College at the University of Manitoba, delivered the keynote address. Drawing from his experience working among Inuit in the Arctic, Trott challenged graduates to reflect on the meaning of authentic humanity, cautioning them to question assumptions shaped by Western norms.
“Our educational journey has equipped us not just with knowledge, but with the heart to be agents of change.”
MONIKA ASMUNDSON
“You do not have to assume you already know what it means to be an authentic human being,” he said. “Be prepared to learn and remember that Scripture provides a powerful guide.”
He encouraged creativity, humility and a commitment to justice as graduates enter a world of boundless opportunities and complex challenges.
A proud descendant of the Hollow Water First Nation (Treaty 5 Territory), valedictorian Monika Asmundson honoured her Indigenous heritage by wearing
a self-made ribbon skirt and an Ojibwedesigned graduation stole.
In her heartfelt address, Asmundson reflected on the resilience forged during the COVID-19 pandemic, the healing power of community and the collective commitment to “heart work”—building relationships rooted in justice, compassion and truth-telling.
“Our educational journey has equipped us not just with knowledge, but with the heart to be agents of change,” she said.
Commissioner Lee Graves presented the General’s Medal to Lieutenant Bill Mailman for outstanding academic achievement and leadership within the Salvation Army tradition, and the Chancellor’s Medal to Cody Russell in recognition of significant spiritual development, academic excellence and meaningful contribution to Booth UC and the broader community.
Booth UC President Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer closed the ceremony with a prayer dedicating the graduates to lives of service, courage and compassionate leadership.
“You leave this place, but God does not leave you. God remains with you, working in you, working through you, to discipline your mind, until it is shaped by the Spirit of God,” said Fringer. “Bend your will until it rests safely and firmly in the divine hand and offer your hands to the Lord’s labour until the world gives birth to perfect peace.”
The Booth UC graduating class of 2025
Monika Asmundson addresses the graduates in her valedictory speech
The Canadian Staff Band (CSB) is pleased to announce Andrew Burditt as its new bandmaster, beginning in fall 2025. This decision follows the recent retirement of Bandmaster John Lam, who led the CSB for 17 years (see page 12).
Burditt has been a member of the CSB for more than 22 years, playing in the cornet section, and is currently the bandmaster at Oshawa Temple, Ont., a role he has held since 2011. He has a bachelor of music from the University of Toronto, as well as a graduate certificate in public relations management from Royal Roads University, and has completed the executive leadership
Canadian Staff Band Announces New Bandmaster
development program at Simon Fraser University. In addition, Burditt has led young people’s band and songsters, has been a regular faculty member at various Salvation Army music camps including Territorial Music School, a musical guest at divisional camps, and has served as divisional music director in the U.S.A. Eastern Territory.
According to Heather Osmond, territorial music and arts secretary, the selection process for a new CSB bandmaster is thorough, requiring candidates to interview on several occasions and conduct a portion of a CSB band rehearsal. A selection committee is present throughout the process and band members are invited to share feedback. “Most importantly, the entire process has been surrounded by prayer from day one, that God would direct our decision-making for the future of this band,” says Osmond.
“Andrew is always an encourager, and that is a special gift to have,” she adds. “It is my hope that the band will continue to focus its sights on the front line of ministry. Our musicians and music leaders are the ones who support worship each
Georgina, Ont., Army Marks 50 Years of Service
Georgina Community Church, Ont., celebrated a milestone anniversary of 50 years in May. According to Lieutenant Jenny Rideout, corps officer, the weekend was a “homecoming” and a “family reunion” that brought together current and former members, community leaders and dignitaries to reflect on the church’s history of service in Georgina.
“The theme of our weekend was ‘All Through the Years’ based on a cherished chorus from our song book,” says Lieutenant Rideout. “It really captured the spirit of the event, which was a testimony of God’s faithfulness through the decades.”
Special guests included General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, retired world leaders, who led moments of worship and fellowship, as well as musical guest Dierdre Lawrence, a local performer
and teacher from Knox United Church. Also in attendance were Lt-Colonels Brian and Lynn Armstrong, divisional leaders, Ontario Division; Major Lori Mitchell, area commander, Ontario Division; former corps officers; and Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk.
“The corps was alive with conversation, and smiles and laughter filled the room as people shared memories and caught up on news,” says Anne Wilson, community care ministries leader. “There is nothing nicer than browsing through old photos to reflect on where we once were, and where we are now. Of course, sharing a good old ‘Army cup of tea’ or coffee while getting reconnected was heartwarming.”
Since its establishment in 1975, Georgina Community Church has offered a variety of programs, such as youth group,
week, grow disciples and reach out to the congregation and community. My hope for all the staff sections is that we will continue to walk alongside as encouragers and supporters.”
“The Canadian Staff Band is a vibrant expression of God’s love and grace as seen through the power of music—with a focus on outreach, evangelism and education, all done with an excellence that honours the gift God has given to all of us,” says Burditt.
For Burditt, the appointment holds a personal significance as both his father and grandfather were charter members of the band in 1969, and his father, Brian, served as the CSB bandmaster from 19852002 and again from 2006-2008. “Being the bandmaster of the Canadian Staff Band is not a position that I aspired to, but something that has come about because of my ongoing desire to follow where God leads,” he says. “It’s incredibly humbling to be able to work with such tremendous people of faith who also happen to be wonderful musicians, and I’m very excited about the future and the possibilities it holds.”
Sunday school, women’s and men’s ministries, and food and clothing assistance.
“We’ve always been here to share God’s love in practical ways,” says Lieutenant Rideout. “With our community growing, our challenge is to be creative in how we reach out. We want to make sure The Salvation Army remains a visible, loving presence in Georgina for the next 50 years and beyond.”
Andrew Burditt assumes the role of CSB bandmaster in fall 2025
ONTARIO
General Brian Peddle speaks at Georgina CC’s 50th anniversary celebration
Quebec Youth Encounter God During FUSE Weekend
In February, 72 young people from across Quebec gathered at Montreal Citadel for FUSE, a weekend of worship aimed at igniting faith and building community among youth ages 15 to 25. FUSE included games, social events and a Friday night party, and it left a lasting spiritual impact that the youth are excited to build upon.
“It’s not just an event for having fun, although that is important,” says Captain Juan Chirinos, corps officer. “It’s a great opportunity for us to provide a space where young people can experience the presence of God in a tangible way.”
This year’s theme was “The Kingdom of God,” a concept that was carried through each session and Bible teaching, as well as workshops that offered real-life applications of the theme, including one on finances and another on worship.
“The worship workshop was a popular one because it looked at the style of worship that young people are listening to in their daily life compared to what is heard in the church today,” explains Captain Chirinos. “We got lots of feedback, such as, ‘I go to church and we sing songs that I don’t hear on the radio too often,’ and
that was interesting for me to evaluate as a corps officer.”
On Saturday night, youth dressed up for a gala dinner with food and games, followed by evening worship. The next morning, they reconvened to debrief about what they learned and how they can take these lessons home with them. “We ended with more worship, then sent them out to spread the kingdom of God,” says Captain Chirinos.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to provide a space where young people can experience the presence of God in a tangible way.”
The call was for every person who attended to go back to their churches and not just be consumers but be active contributors to the church. After FUSE, many of the youth that participated felt called to continue learning about and experiencing God in their lives, and so Montreal Citadel hosted a follow-up event two weeks later.
CAPTAIN JUAN CHIRINOS
“Something spiritual was happening in most of the attendees and they left asking, ‘What do I do next with the
presence of God that has filled me?’ ” says Captain Chirinos.
“There is a revival happening right now in the youth of Quebec. The church today belongs to the youth, and I pray that we as leaders can be good listeners. Jesus has a purpose for them, and we need to be intentional about giving them a place to learn and take the lead.”
Youth participate in a workshop at Montreal Citadel’s FUSE weekend
WHO IS MY NEIGHBOUR?
I’m grateful to Colonel Wendy Swan for this update and overview of the work of the International Social Justice Commission (ISJC) (“A Life of Justice,” January/February 2025). More of us Salvationists should know of the ISJC and its work. It has never been more important than it is now, when isolationism and “protectionist” policies are growing in popularity in many of the wealthier countries in the world. We need clear and consistent witness in word and deed to the Christian principle that everyone is a neighbour to everyone.
James Read
TENDING AND GUIDING
Beautifully written! I’m certainly glad I took the time to read Captain Bhreagh Rowe’s article (“Holy Interruptions,” Salvationist.ca, February 2025). You really made me stop and think back to when my three kids were that age, and all the times I had to drop everything to tend to them. I can’t recall if there was ever a time that I put work or myself before them. It’s what being a parent is all about. Proverbs 22:6 (ESV ) says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Parental guidance plays an essential role in the spiritual maturation of children.
Tina Oram
MYTHS ABOUT GENDER EQUITY
Catherine Booth, co-Founder of The Salvation Army, broke the glass ceiling, but the ladder to the ceiling has not been placed properly for female leaders to climb. Thank you, Lt-Colonel Wanda Vincent (“A Fair Deal,” March/April 2025), for clearing some of the debris and placing the ladder on a firmer foundation. Major Ira Barrow
I hope to see more women, single and married, in high-level leadership and fewer extremely capable, educated women in “women’s ministries,” with men in highlevel leadership roles (this is generally the case in married couples). I love that women are able to be officers, but I think things have been stagnant for a long time. I’m grateful to see an official gender equity appointment and hope to see it lead to at least a more balanced scenario and fewer automatic “men in charge, women supporting” positions.
Allison Boyce
To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include your name and address, and a phone number or email address where you can be contacted. Letters may be edited for space and clarity, and may be published in any medium.
HURT AND HARM
Thank you for the engaging and important conversation on gender equity (“Gender Equity in The Salvation Army,” Salvationist Podcast, March 5, 2025). I appreciate the acknowledgment of the hurt that some officers may have encountered; however, it is not just hurt—gender inequality is disabling. It puts the officer at a disadvantage. So how do we make up for that inequality?
It also affects the territory. The territory has missed out on the gifts and skills of some officers because of inequitable treatment, possibly making the greater work of the territory less effective. I look forward to hearing about the future work of the gender equity committee.
Major Christine Johnston
EASTER ART
Thank you all for your artistic and faithbased contributions (“The Road to the Cross,” Salvationist.ca, April 2025). Expressing yourselves through art and interpretations of the Bible strengthens not only your faith but the faith of others. Christ died that we may be saved if we believe in him.
Marty Holmes
GENUINE FAITH
Thank you, Major McNeilly, for highlighting the challenges we face in reaching gen Z and your focus on this important issue (“Generation Z and Jesus,” Salvationist.ca, April 2025). I agree that while the church can find itself on the world’s periphery, this position presents a huge opportunity. Revival is already happening among gen Z. They are passionately seeking genuine expressions of faith, authenticity and meaningful community. I think it’s important to recognize and embrace this moment rather than resist it. God is indeed at work, speaking powerfully through young voices. Our task is to listen, support and journey alongside these resilient and spiritually curious young people as they shape the future of the church. I am looking forward to reading other entries in this series.
Lieutenant Zach Marshall
The Road to the Cross
LikeJesus’ original followers, believers today are sent into the world to be his witnesses (see Luke 24:48; Matthew 28:1820; Acts 1:8). I pray that The Salvation Army will never lose or abandon a sense of urgency in living its mission. Let’s always speak to people about Jesus, the joy of our salvation and the peace that comes from knowing him personally. While evangelism takes many forms and is an integral part of who we are and vital in every season, the summer months afford us wonderful opportunities for sharing our faith.
Jesus’ ministry was primarily outward facing. He didn’t confine himself to the indoors but engaged people wherever he encountered them—in the marketplace, along the road, on hillsides and at the well.
Outward facing is a fitting way to describe intentional ministry outside of our buildings. Summer is a season when we seek to reach the communities we serve through creative activities, such as outdoor church services, sporting activities, barbecues and day camps, to name just a few. Local mission teams are trained and commissioned for such ministry, which might include prayer walks, community gardens, musical expressions and sponsored festivals. The list grows and grows.
The more relaxed approach of outward-facing ministry encourages relationship building and conversations that can lead to presenting Jesus and reaching the lost. The mission never changes, but our method must be pliable and flexible. Jesus talked with people about spiritual matters in familiar places. He did not need a special environment or control over the circumstances to discuss things of eternal significance.
MISSION MOMENTS
Summer is the perfect time for outward-facing ministry.
BY COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES
Early in my ministry, I was introduced to a simple yet effective three-step approach to evangelism. It was referred to as the “three Cs”: contact, common ground, Christ presented. The three Cs can occur over a short or long period of time as relationships are established.
Contact is the starting point. Rather than waiting for people to come to us, evangelism and outreach invites us to be courageous and bold and to move into our communities and neighbourhoods. From parks to coffee shops, we can make acquaintances and build relationships. The outdoors offers a relaxed setting in which to engage the community.
Common ground refers to establishing a conversation of interest, a relationship. When we establish common ground, we build relationships with people and begin the journey of being an important influence in their life. Jesus was a friend to all and sought opportunities to connect with people and to influence them (see Matthew 9:9-13). Like Jesus, we must build relationships with people who are not Christians to reach them with the gospel.
Christ presented points to sharing your testimony by simply telling the story of what Christ has done in your life. It doesn’t have to be long; in fact, three minutes is just about the right length for any situation. As you tell your story, you could start by dividing it into three parts: your life before you received Christ, how you came to Christ and how Christ is changing your life.
The great joy of knowing Jesus is sharing Jesus. Let us be intentional about presenting the gospel. One excellent way is the Romans Road approach, easily memorized from Scripture:
• “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”—Romans 3:23
• “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”—Romans 5:8
• “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”—Romans 6:23
• “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”—Romans 8:1
• “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”—Romans 10:9
• “For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”—Romans 10:10
• “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”—Romans 10:13
Lord, help us all to be outward facing, bold and courageous in sharing our faith. As a missional movement, help us not to shy away from community engagement and evangelism. Bless our Army, an outward-facing movement, as we seek the lost and share the love of Christ.
For many other resources to help you share your faith, visit salvationist.ca/ corps-mission-evangelism.
COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
The corps in Lewisporte, N.L., enjoys a community barbecue during the Territorial Ministry Tour last summer
CURTAIN CALL
The Canadian Staff Band presents Festival 56 honouring retiring Bandmaster John Lam.
BY ABBIGAIL OLIVER
It was a full house at Guelph Citadel, Ont., on April 5 as the Canadian Staff Band (CSB) hosted Festival 56. The sanctuary filled with brass music, red festival tunics and an air of gratitude as the CSB celebrated 56 years, with a special tribute to Bandmaster John Lam as he prepares to retire after 30 years of faithful service to the band, including 17 years as its leader (see page 12).
Festival 56 was a night of celebration, reflection and gratitude for decades of musical ministry. The sold-out concert featured a vibrant program of music by the CSB, Canadian Staff Songsters (CSS) and special guest Jens Lindemann, worldrenowned trumpet soloist.
The evening also welcomed many notable guests, including Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries; Colonels John and Lani Chamness, chief secretary and territorial secretary for spiritual life development; retired world leaders General Brian and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle; and Commissioner Tracey Tidd and Commissioner Susan McMillan, former territorial leaders.
A NIGHT OF MUSIC
The program opened on a high note with the CSB’s performance of Life Anew by
Marcus Venables, and Lt-Colonel Les Marshall, executive officer of the CSB, extended a warm welcome to the audience. “Heavenly Father, we come before you tonight with hearts filled with gratitude and awe,” he prayed. “Thank you for the gift of music, a reflection of your beauty, creativity and divine presence.”
Music, thankfulness and good humour were at the forefront of the evening, and with each song selection, Lam took time to share personal reflections, spiritual insights and memories from his journey with the CSB. A tribute video showcased Lam’s life and ministry, including childhood photos, highlights from his years with the CSB, and clips of Lam discussing the impact that music and the CSB have had on his life.
“In November 1982, I had just been to my first Salvation Army music camp and had a very moving experience there. I was invited to sing with the praise and worship group at Roy Thomson Hall. As I sat there with the songster brigade, out came the Canadian Staff Band and they played Symphony of Thanksgiving and The Canadian,” he said in the video. “It’s like my world shifted. It shook me to my core.... That was the beginning for me.”
Lindemann joined the band for Standing on the Promises by Douglas
Court. Lindemann, a Canadian whose home base is Los Angeles, lost nearly all his possessions in the California wildfires earlier this year, and he spoke to the audience about the healing power of music.
“We lost everything. I had 40 trumpets and I saved eight of them. I wanted to come play here tonight because music is what heals,” said Lindemann. “The second verse of Standing on the Promises is very important to me: Standing on the promises that cannot fail, when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail; by the living Word of God I shall prevail, standing on the promises of God.”
The CSB then performed The Canadian, a bold and patriotic piece that concluded with the Canadian national anthem. Toward the end of the song, Lam signaled the audience to stand, and the sanctuary filled with voices singing O Canada. Festival 56 also featured the distinct voices of the CSS, led by Songster Leader Cathie Koehnen, who performed the gentle and meditative The Dawn and a rhythmic rendition of I Will Sing. Afterward, Lam announced this year’s recipient of the Norman Bearcroft Scholarship, Mareike Olson from West Kootenay Circuit in Trail, B.C. The scholarship is awarded annually to a deserving student to attend Territorial Music School.
Photos: Steve Nelson
Current and former members of the Canadian Staff Band smile for a photo with John Lam and Jens Lindemann
Later in the evening, the CSB performed Corpus Christi by Colonel Robert Redhead, a selection Lam called one of his “bucket list pieces” that are a challenge to him both musically and spiritually. For Lam, Corpus Christi, which means “the body of Christ,” is representative of the values of the band.
“I am all about community, and I believe that community must extend beyond the walls of The Salvation Army,” he explained. “This band is a community of faith. We spend time studying the Word and bringing people to the Lord in prayer.”
IT MEANS NO WORRIES
After a brief intermission, Lindemann led the audience back to their seats, marching from the back of the sanctuary playing When the Saints. As he reached the stage, the band joined in full force to finish the tune.
Lt-Colonel Marshall returned to the stage to share a devotional based on Jeremiah 29:11 and the Disney production, The Lion King. He reminded the congregation that, like the familiar phrase, “hakuna matata,” seasons of change are
part of God’s plan. “ ‘Hakuna matata’ isn’t just a catchy phrase. It echoes a biblical truth that we can live without worry when we trust in God’s plan,” he said. “His promise of a hopeful future lets us release our fears. This isn’t just positive thinking—it’s divine assurance. We can live worry-free not because life is easy, but because God’s will is always good, pleasing and perfect.”
Reflecting on Lam’s tenure with the band, Lt-Colonel Marshall explained that his legacy would endure in those who continue to serve.
“John’s years of faithful service have planted seeds that will continue to grow,” he said. “God is not done with this ministry. The work of God’s kingdom continues.”
After a performance of I Have Seen the Glory of God by the CSB and CSS, Commissioner Lee Graves presented Lam with an Award of Exceptional Service, the territory’s highest honour.
“In this territory, our music ministry is so important to the mission of The Salvation Army,” said Commissioner Graves. “This award is presented to you because you exemplify the mission of the Army, and you live above and beyond in God’s name and for his glory. On behalf of our territory, I express our gratitude and say thank you.”
Lindemann is one of the most celebrated trumpet players in history, and the first to receive the Order of Canada. He has performed at major venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, the Great Wall of China and the Olympics
(Left) In addition to his skill on the trumpet and personal stories of faith, Lindemann
CHRIST AT THE CENTRE
As the night ended, Lam reflected on his time with the CSB, his own spiritual and musical journey, and gratitude for those who have been part of it. He expressed heartfelt thanks to his family and wife, Sarah, colleagues, students and the many musicians he has served alongside.
“Every piece [the band] played, every player and every location we played in left a mark on my soul in some way,” he said. “My challenge going forward is this: please continue to value the impact of this expression of faith. We’re a small denomination but we pack a punch.
“And if we truly call ourselves an Army, then let’s not only celebrate our victories, but let’s go back and retrieve our wounded and our fallen,” Lam continued. “And while we celebrate behind these walls, we’re meant to be out there in the community, so please never shy away from that. Keep Christ at the centre of everything you do, and he will continue to be faithful to you.”
In closing, the CSB , the CSS and Lindemann performed Bridge Over Troubled Water. Then, as a meaningful benediction, CSB members and alumni went out into the congregation, surrounding the audience with their instruments and music stands, and played God Be With You. The sanctuary was enveloped in the sound of brass music as Lam conducted from centre stage.
To read more about John Lam’s journey as bandmaster of the Canadian Staff Band, see page 12.
Prior to Festival 56, there was a celebratory dinner featuring friendly comments from Stephen Pavey, band historian, and Major Kevin Metcalf, former music secretary and CSB member, who reminisced about memories with Lam over the years.
“God has honoured you and given you opportunities and, in turn, you have honoured him through your ministry,” said Pavey to Lam. “You’ve taught us the importance of worshipping through music…. You’ve had the opportunity to conduct some difficult music, but your legacy has been the way you’ve connected with people, encouraged them and directed them toward Jesus.”
the store, and just hours before the concert, he received a call from Burton (far left) and invited him to attend Festival 56
“John openly gives his heart to the Army and to the Lord, and he openly lives out his Christian faith as a high school teacher,” said Major Metcalf. “We need more people like that.”
shared many jokes and personal anecdotes with the audience. Earlier that day, he had visited a music store in downtown Guelph and purchased a pocket trumpet. The instrument’s seller was a young man named Burton, who lives with spinal muscular atrophy. Lindemann left his phone number with
Lam accepts an Award of Exceptional Service from Commissioner Lee Graves
Whena 17-year-old John Lam decided to attend National Music Camp in 1982, he had no idea his life was about to change forever.
“I was sitting last chair in the trombone section, and we played this wonderful piece called I Know a Fount,” he remembers, “and it really spoke to me, the music and lyrics: ‘I know a fount where sins are washed away.’
“I had attended The Salvation Army for a few years and felt that loving community of faith around me. But this was where the lights came on, spiritually, and I made a real decision for Christ at that camp.”
That decision led Lam to a lifetime of faith, a career as a music teacher, and 30 years of ministry in the Canadian Staff Band (CSB). Now retiring after 17 years as bandmaster, he’s grateful for the time he’s had with the band—and emphasizes the importance of its ministry. “It is an immense evangelical tool that we have, one that we should not take for granted.”
UNFORGETTABLE
Lam grew up in Owen Sound, Ont., where his family attended the local Anglican church. At the time, the church did not have a children’s ministry, so when a Salvationist co-worker invited his father to check out the Salvation Army corps, which was right down the street from their house, they took him up on the invitation.
Immediately, Lam and his sisters received a warm welcome, especially among the older members of the congregation who became their “uncles” and “aunts.”
TOP BRASS
John Lam reflects on decades of ministry and why music is critical to the Army’s mission.
BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN
(Left) A young Lam (second from left) sings as part of the Owen Sound singing company
Lam offers the salute during the Mobilize— Newfoundland and Labrador Divisional Congress and Commissioning in 2017
(Top) John Lam conducts the Canadian Staff Band at Festival 56
Photo: Steadman Bowers
Photo: Steve Nelson
“There were so many kids in the building, and we felt part of things,” Lam shares. “They put an instrument in your hand and now you’re in junior band.”
Not long after his transformative experience at National Music Camp, Lam had the opportunity to perform with his corps’ songster brigade at the Army’s Festival of Gospel Song at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto—and that was where he encountered the CSB.
“Out comes this group in red tunics and they start playing, and I’m thinking, What is this?” he recalls. “Something changed there. I was enthralled by what I heard, but also just overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit. That was an unforgettable experience.”
MODELS AND MENTORS
That concert not only introduced Lam to the CSB but also led him to study music after he finished high school. He moved to London, Ont., to attend university and became a member of London Citadel and its band.
Lam spent his 20s playing with various musical groups—even touring with a production of Les Miserables for a time—and the CSB was not top of mind. But after 10 years in London, as Lam was poised to take the reins of the citadel’s band, providence intervened.
“The bass trombone spot in the CSB came open exactly at that time,” he says. “And Brian Burditt, the bandmaster, said, ‘This would be a great thing for you, John, because you’re about to take over a demanding leadership role in London. Why don’t you join the staff band? You’ll be among other bandmaster colleagues that you can share with, and they can mentor you.’ ”
That mentorship helped Lam grow as both a musician and a leader, preparing him to take on the role of CSB bandmaster in 2008.
“By that point in my life, my corps band had taught me that Salvation Army leadership is less than 10 percent about the music, and it’s more than 90 percent about the people,” he reflects. “I knew the power of this ministry and the Christian witness that we can have through it.”
That conviction has been reflected in Lam’s leadership over the past 17 years, as the CSB has performed around the world and mentored bands at the corps level.
“Through Salvation Army banding, participants—wherever they are on their faith journey, new or old or needing renewal—are continuously exposed to the
gospel and lifted up by the people around them,” Lam says. “And so, with the staff band, I wanted to model that wherever we went, how that could look in their church.
“You don’t have to be the staff band,” he continues. “Whether you have a five-piece band or a 40-piece band, you can have a community of faith.”
COMMUNITY IN TRAGEDY
The importance of community was on full display when Lam experienced a profound tragedy in his own life in 2016.
“My wife, Jane, and I were at a music camp in Texas, and she got what she thought was a chest cold, but it wasn’t—it was angiosarcoma, and she was gone 10 weeks later,” Lam shares. “In the weeks leading up to her death, I still did rehearsals, both at the corps and with the staff band. And so they walked through that tragedy with me and my son, Jonathan, and they were present.
“It was a reversal of roles, because it’s my view that the role of bandmaster is a pastoral one. So I’m used to reaching out to the members of my corps band and staff band behind the scenes when needed,” he continues. “This was a case where they were there for the bandmaster. They demonstrated to me—God’s got you through this.”
Though he notes the experience has never really left him, Lam is grateful for how his Salvation Army community, near and far, held him up in that difficult time, and for the blessing of a healing chapter with his new wife, Sarah. “She is the personification of God’s faithfulness,” Lam says.
JOY IN THE SALVATION ARMY
In addition to his ministry as bandmaster for the London Citadel Band and the CSB, Lam is passionate about his work as a music teacher and is currently the head of performing arts at Glendale High School in Tillsonburg, Ont.
For Lam, teaching is another form of ministry as he lives his faith authentically among his students.
“We invest in our students, and so they invest in us,” he says. “So, if they find out that you’re doing a concert, they’ll show up at London Citadel and see your concert—when you didn’t even invite them.
“It’s not going to be too long before they realize you’re in a faith-based group,” he continues. “And then the next conversation is, ‘What’s that all about?’ I hope and pray, for all of us who are teachers, that
there is a joy that you have when you are a Salvation Army musician. And if you’re carrying that into the classroom, your students are probably going to sense that, and they’ll want to be part of that.”
Lam notes that, over the years, a number of his students have ended up coming to his church and some have even joined the band. “That’s been an added blessing.”
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
Looking back over 30 years, Lam says it’s nearly impossible to name a favourite experience with the CSB. But he shares a recent encounter, following the annual Christmas With The Salvation Army concert, that exemplifies what the ministry of the CSB is all about.
“I was about to walk off stage and this gentleman got my attention,” Lam recalls. “This man looked right through my soul and said, ‘I came in here quite by accident tonight and I need to tell you—I really struggle with Christmas.’ He started to well up, but he fought through it and continued, ‘But after experiencing this concert, hearing this music and considering all of the words and the message, I know I need to come back to Christ.’
“For me, you can’t get a better moment than that, when you know you’ve made an impression on someone like that. Mission accomplished.”
In recognition of his years of ministry, Lam was presented with an Award of Exceptional Service at the recent Festival 56 concert (see page 10)—an honour Lam says he was not expecting but is grateful for.
As he retires as CSB bandmaster, Lam encourages all Salvationists to embrace the uniqueness of the Army’s musical culture.
“It is so crucial to realize that our music ministry—the staff sections and any musical group in your own community—is one of the best evangelical tools that you could ever have,” he says. “We’re reaching hundreds of people, even in just one Christmas season, and those seeds are planted. As our territorial commander says, it’s mission critical.”
As for his own legacy?
“I hope I will be remembered as somebody who took care of the CSB the best I could while I had my time,” he says, “and that I opened the doors for the talented people in the group to become the person that God intended them to be.”
Listen to the full interview with John Lam on the Salvationist podcast at salvationist.ca/podcast.
For many of us, it’s hard to imagine a time when slavery was common, acceptable and even aspirational in Canada. While the abolition of slavery in this country was set into motion in 1833, it wasn’t until 2005 that legislation was introduced to address some of the nuances of what has become known as modern-day slavery: human trafficking.
Human trafficking is a hidden-in-plain-sight crime, often invisible to those not directly affected. It may simply look like a construction site, a caregiver in the community, a local farmers market, or an independent sex worker. As a result, most Canadians are completely unaware that the effects of modern slavery and human trafficking reach every province and community in this country.
LABOUR TRAFFICKING IN CANADA
Between 2019 and 2022, the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking identified 1,500 cases of human trafficking, reporting that 69 percent were related to sex trafficking, while six percent were related to labour trafficking. Although human trafficking is most often associated with sexual exploitation, many experts agree that labour trafficking cases are significantly underreported due to barriers woven into the framework of our labour market. A 2023 United Nations report highlighted Canada’s temporary foreign worker program, for example, as being a “breeding ground for contemporary forms of slavery.” Earlier this year, an Amnesty International Report on the same program labelled it “inherently exploitative,” as workers are given closed work permits, binding them to a single employer. The risk of speaking out about abuses from employers is too high for some workers, whose families back home are fully dependent on the potential wages they receive here in Canada.
ILLUMINATE ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING RESPONSE
Every year, The Salvation Army’s Illuminate, which encompasses six MSHT response programs in British
A HIDDEN SIGHT -IN-PLAINCRIME
Labour trafficking exists in Canada— and it’s closer to home than you think.
BY JENEA GOMEZ
Columbia, receives dozens of referrals from front-line personnel who notice possible signs of human trafficking.
In the summer of 2024, a Salvation Army food bank worker in Port Alberni, B.C., responded to red flags that led to the relief of 15 exploited workers. They had been brought to Canada to work at a factory. In this case, the employer was approved to sponsor temporary foreign workers, with the responsibility of providing accommodations and, at the very least, minimum wages. It quickly became apparent to the Army staff member that their clients needed help, as they timidly communicated mistreatment from their employer, unsanitary living conditions and lengthy work hours with no pay.
It was at this point that Illuminate staff members, trained in human trafficking response strategies, stepped in to offer guidance and case coordination for the survivors. In collaboration with the local member of Parliament’s office, a migrant workers centre and other Army staff, they were able to secure safe transitional housing, meet the workers’ immediate needs and begin the process of repatriation.
Over the following several months, some workers were successful in gaining open work permits and access to alternative employment training programs, while others, clinging to the hope of receiving some wages, decided to return to their exploitative employer. This is not uncommon.
“That is what makes human trafficking so complex. It’s not just a matter of rescuing someone and setting them free,” says Tanicia Remillard, manager of Illuminate’s survivor development centre. “Labour trafficking can be hard to spot because it just looks like someone doing a job. It’s easy to assume that if they aren’t being paid or they’re experiencing force, fraud or coercion, they will report it or just quit.
“In reality, survivors are dealing with a lack of information, threats of violence and complex trauma bonds that can be quite entangling and even lead to re-exploitation after exiting. Public awareness is so important.”
The Army’s Illuminate operates specialized anti-trafficking programs, including a safehouse, a survivor development centre and human trafficking awareness and response training.
RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND
In recent years, the number of identified labour trafficking survivors in Canada has grown. They work as farmers, nail technicians, construction workers, caregivers, manufacturers and in various forms of hospitality. While our current political climate has many people wanting to buy Canadian and vacation at home, we need to consider how that growth in local demand will be supplied and face the uncomfortable possibility that even products made right here at home could be unfairly traded.
The problem is big, and the solution is layered, but we are not hopeless. Survivors do exit exploitation, often because of someone spotting the signs. As government agencies continue to refine our national strategy to combat human trafficking and experts in the field respond to the complex effects of these abuses, we can all contribute to ending this form of modern-day slavery by recognizing what forced labour looks like and knowing how to respond when we see it.
JENEA GOMEZ
The Salvation Army is committed to serving victims and survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking through our programs across Canada and Bermuda. These programs range from outreach, emergency, short-term and long-term housing, live-in rehabilitation services, employment training, peer support, drop-in centres and case management. To learn more, visit salvationist.ca/trafficking.
When Disaster Strikes, The Salvation Army
There!
is the director of anti-human trafficking programs at Belkin Communities of Hope in British Columbia.
violence
The Home Front is an ongoing series where we highlight the mission and ministry taking place around our territory. We will visit each Canadian province and territory, as well as Bermuda, and celebrate the innovation and impact the Army is having in corps, social services and youth ministry
LT-COLONEL SCOTT RIDEOUT
Divisional commander
LT-COLONEL MICHELLE RIDEOUT Divisional officer personnel secretary and divisional spiritual life development secretary
HOPE RESTORED
Three stories of coffee, cribbage and community in New Brunswick.
BY GISELLE RANDALL
In Saint John, N.B., a long-running breakfast program at Saint John Hope Community Church is a warm, inviting environment for 50-70 people every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Breakfast is served restaurant-style, with volunteers taking orders at each table. Who is Hope Café for?
“Whoever wants to come in,” says Mary Doiron, community and family services coordinator. “We have people who are homeless. We have people who live by themselves. We have seniors. And we have some who just like the camaraderie of it all.”
There’s usually a game of cribbage going—when she’s not busy, Doiron often joins in. Others use the computers to check their email or look for an apartment. Some tuck their belongings under a table and catch up on rest.
“The shelters close first thing in the morning,” says Doiron. “People come here for breakfast and to get out of the elements, but they also know they can sleep if they need
to, if the noise at the shelter kept them up all night. They feel safe here.”
As well as a hot meal, guests come to Doiron for help with other things, such as clothes or drafting a resumé.
“And sometimes they just need someone to listen,” she says. “It leads to inviting them to church or to other programs that The Salvation Army has to offer.”
Building relationships and trust opens the door to helping people move forward.
“A meal like this is important, because it’s a step—and one step leads to more steps. We serve because we love people, and that’s what Jesus did. We follow in his footsteps.”
Doiron’s own experience helps her relate to the struggles people face.
“I lived the story that these clients live,” she says. “Some of the stuff I went through in life—I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for God. And I think the reason is to be right here where I am now, to help others. I believe that’s the story God had for me.”
Volunteers serve hot coffee and bagels at Hope Café, a breakfast program at Saint John Hope CC
HOPE CAFÉ IN SAINT JOHN, N.B.
Photos: Lieutenant Jason Brinson
New Brunswick
PATHWAY OF HOPE IN SUSSEX, N.B.
Last year, more than three million visits were made to The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda, often for help with basic needs, such as food, clothing and shelter. In times of crisis, the Army meets people where they are with love and support. But how can we help people move from crisis to stability? How can we move beyond serving to solving?
“Pathway of Hope represents a philosophical and cultural shift in our practice of providing service and support,” says Claire Dunmore, territorial community mission secretary. “It helps people break the cycle of poverty by addressing root causes rather than treating symptoms. It’s an approach that focuses on their strengths to overcome barriers—building hope for the future.”
This approach is transforming lives in Sussex, N.B., where it starts with an assessment on readiness for change.
“You can’t do things for people and expect change—they have to want the change for themselves,” says Megan Miner, Pathway of Hope caseworker. “They have to put in the work.”
When people are ready, Miner helps them develop a plan and set achievable goals, whether that’s finishing high school, finding a job or housing, or learning to budget. She meets with participants weekly to offer encouragement and support, as well as links to other community resources. The support team also includes a spiritual care representative, recognizing the important connection between spirituality and hope.
For one woman, who was living in a tent when Miner met her, Pathway of Hope has given her the foundation she needed to change her life. At first, she didn’t make a lot of eye contact. But over time, she has grown comfortable enough to laugh and joke with Miner over coffee. She is part of a work program and makes all her shifts even though she needs to walk to work—and it’s not a short walk.
“This is her time to shine,” says Miner. “She’s a real gogetter. Things don’t always come easily, but she makes it happen. Sometimes you just need to have one person on your side, somebody rooting for you, because not everyone has that. And once she had somebody on her side—she’s destined for big things.”
Dan Cooper has worked in youth ministry in every city he’s lived in—from Hartland, N.B., to Moncton, N.B., to Lynchburg, Virginia, to Hamilton, Ont., and back to Moncton. And in every city, he has taught the teens a game he learned from his youth pastor: Aliens.
“It’s a little bit of hide and seek, a little bit of tag, a little bit of manhunt, all combined together,” he says. “Lots of running around scared in the dark. It’s always a hit.”
These days, they play it at Moncton Citadel Community Church, where he leads the teen group along with his wife, Jalianne Li. The group meets on Sunday evenings about twice a month for a Bible study, games and prayer. For the past couple of years, they have been slowly reading through 1 and 2 Samuel, books that Cooper has taught in his academic career as an Old Testament professor.
“I get to wear two hats at the same time,” he says. “There’s the professor hat, but then I also still get to wear the youth pastor hat. I really love these teens. So, I try to blend the academic with, how is this passage applicable to their lives? This is an ancient text, but David was a young guy, dealing with young guy struggles. Even though our technology and culture are different, humanity is the same.”
About two-thirds of the group are from families who are new to Canada. For many, English is a second, third or even fourth language. During prayer time, they share their struggles with school and friends and worries about their immigration status.
“They’re keenly aware of the precarity of their situations,” says Cooper. “They want to stay here. We’ve prayed and prayed with them through the ups and downs of the immigration process. And when they say, ‘Hey, my dad got a job,’ or ‘We moved on to the next step,’ we get to celebrate with them.”
Cooper has been through many of his own struggles over the years, and says the faithful concern, care and love shown by Christ’s followers is what sustained him during times of pain and doubt.
“If I can be that kind of consistent source of love and encouragement, someone these teens can turn to for questions, for help,” he says, “if I can be half the mentor that some of my mentors have been to me—it’s worth it.”
Teens at Moncton Citadel CC play cardboard wars, fighting to crack another player’s egg while protecting their own
Megan Miner shares a moment with a community and family services client at Sussex CC, N.B.
TEEN GROUP IN MONCTON, N.B.
Photo: Shelly McCready
Photo:
Dan Cooper
C MPFIRE
Conversations
Young Salvationists share the transformative power of working at camp.
BY ABBIGAIL OLIVER
Every summer across the Canada and Bermuda Territory, young people devote their time to working at camp. It’s a place for fun and friendship, but it’s also where kids, teens and staff alike can encounter Jesus, sometimes for the first time.
Many of the people who engage in this ministry started as campers themselves, returning year after year to experience the magic of Salvation Army summer camp. From Camp Sunrise in British Columbia to Camp Starrigan in Newfoundland and Labrador, here are six staff who share why they choose to spend their summers serving God:
NEWPORT ADVENTURE CAMP AND JACKSON’S POINT CAMP Sarah Robertson
I grew up in The Salvation Army and attend London Citadel, Ont. I’m first and primarily a child of God—I love Jesus, music, being outdoors and discipling others.
Camp is a place to disciple, walk with people as they fall in love with the Lord, and show them what the Lord says. It has been a great privilege to work with Ontario Camping Ministries.
I always want people to experience Jesus and see his love through me. I desire to be someone who is safe, trustworthy and hardworking, and I long to have Jesus at the centre of all I do so I can lead people, through the Holy Spirit, to grow in faith, have fun and feel secure.
One time at camp, there was a cabin that really wanted to learn more about Jesus. During their free time, they asked if I’d read the Bible with them. We got to read the Bible together for an hour and the campers asked so many great questions. It’s cool to see the Lord moving in this way. I get so much joy from the relationships that have come out of my time at camp. I have made lifelong friends who love the Lord, challenge me to grow in faith, and walk with me through the ups and downs
To anyone who is thinking about applying to camp: be open to the Lord and what he could do in your heart during the summer. It’s not a waste to take these months and dive deeper into faith and community—it’s actually a blessing!
ONTARIO DIVISION
CAMP SUNRISE
I’ve been going to Camp Sunrise since I was seven. Growing up, camp planted seeds and stimulated my growth as a Christian. Now as camp staff, I see the same experience happening for kids and teens. I was in those campers’ shoes not too long ago, and the leaders I looked up to are who I want to be for them.
My first summer working at camp, I was new to it and feeling nervous. At that time, I was scared of not being the best cabin leader. But there was a moment that changed my perspective. One camper didn’t want to go to an activity and didn’t feel like talking. I sat down with him and was honest. I said, “We have to go now, but I can either have a friend of mine sit with you, or you can come to the activity with me.” When I gave him that option, he said, “I want to come with you.” That was the first day of the week. We connected, and he began to feel more comfortable at camp. By the end of the week, he loved camp and was happy to be there.
There is no experience like working at camp. It’s a very special place, and a lot of love and care goes into making it happen. I love being a part of that.
Steve Sigauke
CAMP MOUNTAINVIEW
I was born and raised in Zimbabwe, and I went to The Salvation Army there. I have many siblings, all younger than me, and I’ve always loved working with kids. Last summer, I had the opportunity to work at Camp Mountainview and I so enjoyed it. I’m returning this year.
It was a unique experience because I was working with campers who are mostly Indigenous. It was special because I got to learn more about Indigenous people and culture. I’d never had the opportunity to connect with the Indigenous community before, and it was a fantastic experience.
I’ve always known that I love connecting with people, especially people from a different background than me, but I got to experience it at a more profound level at camp. I also had a lot of opportunities to talk to kids about Jesus. They would come to me and tell me about their lives back home and their worries. I was someone they could talk to.
One day, I was having a chat about Jesus with a 10-year-old camper and he asked, “Why do we always talk about Jesus at this camp?” I said, “This is a Christian camp. You come to have fun but also to learn about Jesus because he loved us and died for our sins.” And the kid responded, “Why did Jesus die for our sins, including me, when I wasn’t even born then?”
I’ll be honest, I went to camp thinking, This is just a summer job. I didn’t know what to expect, but once I got there, it felt so different and surreal. I built relationships not just with the kids but also with the camp staff and directors. They’re very welcoming, and I experienced God just by interacting and building relationships with them. It was a fulfilling experience. I could do this my whole life.
“THE SPIRIT SHOWS UP AND MOVES THROUGH EVERYTHING—GOD LITERALLY BREATHES INTO CAMP. ”
—ISABELLA HASKEY
BRITISH COLUMBIA DIVISION
BRITISH COLUMBIA DIVISION
Simeon Basil (left) with friends at camp
PINE LAKE CAMP
Growing up in The Salvation Army, a bunch of us from my church, Glenmore Temple in Calgary, would go to music camp in the summers. It just became a thing that, when you’re old enough, you go to work at camp. I’ve practically grown up at Pine Lake Camp here in Alberta.
Redmond
CAMP STARRIGAN AND SCOTIAN GLEN CAMP Eva
MONTREAL CITADEL DAY CAMP
I’ve worked there since 2021. I started as a cabin leader, then was head cabin leader, and now that I’m in nursing school, I’m excited to be returning as a camp nurse.
I’m passionate about starting kids out young, introducing them to God and planting those seeds early. You don’t understand how important and beautiful it is until you see it. I also love worship and leading it at my church, but there’s something different about leading worship to a whole bunch of joyful kids with lots of energy. It’s really exciting and rewarding.
Camp feels safe and comforting, but it’s also absolutely electric. You feel like you can be yourself there. It’s a hotspot for God. The Spirit shows up and moves through everything—God literally breathes into camp. PRAIRIES AND
I started going to music camp when I was eight and always said I wanted to work there. Since 2021, I have travelled for “camp at home” during the pandemic, worked at Camp Starrigan in Newfoundland and Labrador, and now I am at Scotian Glen Camp in Nova Scotia. When I’m applying for camp each year, I always say I’m willing to go wherever I’m needed, so I’ve been all around!
I love camping ministry. I feel like I do meaningful work, and I like to watch the campers come back again the next year and see how they’ve grown. Even during the time that they’re at camp—the way they leave is so different from the way they came.
Every camp provides such a positive and meaningful experience, and everyone can grow spiritually and personally. For me, camp has always been the place where I’ve had the most pivotal moments in my spiritual journey, both as a camper and now as camp staff. I’ve always had a relationship with Jesus, but camp has given me a place to explore my faith on my own aside from just going to church and praying. I believe my faith has really matured through it, and I’m glad I get to be part of making those moments for other people.
Working at camp, I feel free to talk about God. My faith plays a big role in the way I serve at camp, and it shapes the way I act and talk to children. Every action can influence a child, so I must be a vessel of God’s love. I pray that my faith in God will be an example for the kids at camp and that they might learn something from it.
Some of the children at camp know very little about Jesus but seeing them grow to love him makes me so happy. It’s nice to see that God is still moving in the younger generation.
There’s a specific moment from my camp experience that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. One day, we were talking to the kids about accepting Jesus into their lives as their Saviour. We handed out Bibles, and as the staff was passing them around, one kid started asking me questions: “How can you find stories inside of that book? If I read my Bible, is that enough to be close to God? What should I read first? Should I read it every day? With my family? How will I be able to understand everything? Can I write my name inside the Bible?” I answered every question as best I could, but the fact that he was so curious and interested brought tears to my eyes. I was so touched by how much he wanted to learn about God.
I saw a change in myself after camp. Our job is to pass the gospel to children, and we end up acting more like Jesus so that we are an example to them. Acting like Jesus for two months can change your life.
ATLANTIC DIVISION
ATLANTIC DIVISION
GOOD
INNINGS
The Salvation Army in Bermuda celebrates freedom, faith and love during Cup Match.
BY LIEUTENANT ALMETA WARD
InBermuda, Cup Match is one of the most anticipated events of the summer, an opportunity for friends, families and tourists to gather and immerse themselves in Bermudian traditions and festivities. This two-day annual celebration, which falls on July 31 and August 1 this year, brings together the island’s rich history, culture and love of cricket—fusing a commemoration of the freeing of all slaves on the island with an exciting cricket match between two rival teams: St. George’s and Somerset.
Bermuda observes Emancipation Day on the first day of Cup Match because the game of cricket came to symbolize the efforts of the community to rebuild. In 2020, the second day of the holiday was renamed Mary Prince Day, in honour of a Bermudian who played a crucial role in the abolition movement. Born into an enslaved family, Prince was the first woman to write an account of her life as a slave. The History of Mary Prince, A West Indian Slave, published by the Anti-Slavery Society in London, England, in 1831, galvanized public sentiment against slavery.
Salvation Army corps in Bermuda celebrate these national holidays by holding Cup Match Sunday, a time for fun, fellowship and the Word. We invite our congregations to wear their team colours—blue/blue for St. George’s and red/blue for Somerset—and decorate the sanctuary with red and blue flags. Some people even bring along chairs and umbrellas.
In 2024, the theme of our service was faith, perseverance and freedom. Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and Hebrews 12:1-2, I shared that win or lose, God is still on our side. When life is tough and we face stumbling blocks, God our heavenly Father is right there to pick us up and carry us to the finish line, where we have the hope of receiving the crown of life—one that will last eternally.
I spoke of the faith and perseverance shown by our forefathers in Bermuda, and the joy of celebrating freedom. I also shared the importance of people such as Mary Prince and her determined faith in action, despite her circumstances. I believe from reading her autobiography that she was a woman of faith and quoted from her book: “God will find a way to give me my liberty.”
The theme of faith and perseverance was woven throughout the service, including our time of worship. It was an energetic atmosphere as we sang songs of joy, happiness and hope. The reflection song after the devotion was The Cause of Christ.
After the service, the celebration continued with food and fellowship in the hall. We even had blue-coloured cupcakes.
Even though the St. George’s team did not win, our spirits were not dampened. We came together, red and blue, and continued to celebrate the true meaning of Cup Match and all that it stands for: freedom, faith and love for all.
LIEUTENANT ALMETA WARD
is the corps officer at St. George’s Corps in Bermuda.
Cup Match is an annual celebration in Bermuda that brings together the island’s rich history, culture and love of cricket
As part of last year’s festivities, Salvationists joined with Christians from all over the western end of the island of Bermuda for an open-air pre-Cup Match service in Somerset. The atmosphere was filled with the melodic sounds of the combined praise and worship team, along with energetic dance and flag worship and the delightful puppet ministry of the Army’s West End CC
St. George’s Corps decorated in celebration of Cup Match Sunday
ASK ? EXPERT
In the middle of the night, my phone rang. It was a distraught older relative, who was worried she was about to be arrested. Scammers had threatened her, saying there was unusual activity in her bank account, and they needed to “verify” if she was breaking the law. I told her to ignore these kinds of calls, but the damage had been done. They had convinced her to share her banking information and passwords.
Every year, seniors lose millions of dollars to scams. In fact, fraud is the number one crime against our senior population. In recent months, Canadian law enforcement and banks have stepped up their efforts to address this issue by establishing safety campaigns for families.
So, what are some of the key warning signs of a scam, and how can we protect vulnerable older adults from unscrupulous scam artists?
TARGETING SENIORS
Seniors fall victim to various scams for many reasons. They often have more disposable income, making them a target. They tend to spend more time alone at home, and loneliness can make it more likely they will answer the door or the phone. They may not be familiar with technology, and so easily fall for a scammer’s ruse.
A scam happens when somebody gains your trust for the purpose of stealing your money or personal information. Scammers often use sophisticated lies to
SENIORS MUST ALSO KNOW THAT IT IS OK TO ASK FOR HELP.
CHEAT SHEET
How can we protect seniors
from scams?
BY NANCY TURLEY
trick people. They are experts at imitating honest people or organizations. They may also threaten the victim with a fine, disconnection of services, arrest or even deportation, causing great anxiety. Scams are designed to play on emotions, such as loneliness, fear or greed, and calculated to provoke an immediate response.
Fraud usually happens when somebody gains access to your funds without your knowledge or authority. You might not even be aware of the fraud until you notice discrepancies on your bank statement or receive a call from your financial institution.
WARNING SIGNS
Although scams and fraud can take many forms, there are some key warning signs. These unconscionable tricksters will suggest there is an urgency to take action or send money, suggesting that this is a “time-limited offer.” The pressure to make decisions quickly is meant to isolate individuals from the caution and concern of their family members.
Another key warning sign is the request for personal or sensitive information, such as a birth date, address, bank account information or social insurance number. Sharing this information with the wrong people will put loved ones at risk.
Other things that should ring alarm bells are contractors who ask for money upfront, a business card with no address or a company with no listing in the Better Business Bureau. These individuals will not be able to provide trustworthy references or may pressure the vulnerable adult to sign a contract on the spot.
Finally, a new area of concern is the use of artificial intelligence (AI). As AI rapidly develops and voice-cloning tools become readily available, it is crucial to help the whole family verify the identity of callers, particularly when it seems someone is in a hurry or needs information urgently.
One practical yet effective strategy is to establish a “safe word” or pre-established code to confirm a caller’s identity during a conversation. Choose a unique, memorable word or phrase, and share it only with trusted individuals.
TALK ABOUT IT
It’s important to start a conversation with the seniors in your life about how they can protect themselves. Awareness is key to recognizing scams when they show up on our doorsteps or our computers. Explain the types of scams specifically targeting them through phone calls, emails, text messages, social media and even letters in the mail. Encourage them to keep an eye on their finances and to review their bank account activity.
Seniors must also know that it is OK to ask for help. Remind them that if something seems strange or too good to be true, it is wise to ask a trusted individual to validate the request or transaction.
Most of all, it’s important for seniors, and all Canadians, to shake off the stigma that comes with being defrauded. Many of these crimes go unreported because the victims feel ashamed that they fell for the scam or did not realize they had been deceived until it was too late. It’s important to educate and reassure loved ones that anyone can be vulnerable to a well-crafted scam.
Raising awareness of this safety issue is vital to protect the lives of those we love. We all have a role to play in recognizing a potential crime or in knowing how to reduce or remove the risk of being duped into losing our financial security and peace of mind. Let’s ensure that we are aware of resources to help seniors and their families navigate these challenges.
NANCY TURLEY is the territorial abuse advisor in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
COMMON SCAMS
The first step in protecting the seniors or vulnerable family members in your life is to be aware of the most common scams. Here are a few:
ROMANCE SCAMS
Loneliness plays a key role. If your parents or grandparents spend most of their time alone or isolated, they might be excited to get a phone call, email or instant message from someone keen to discuss current events and hear about their day—even if it’s a stranger. These so-called “romance scams” target older adults who are socially isolated.
GRANDPARENT SCAMS
Some scammers will pose as grandchildren, texting because they’re in trouble and need cash to get out of jail or pay a fine. This type of scam has grown exponentially over the last year and is referred to as the “grandparent scam.”
BANK SCAMS
BOGUS HOME REPAIR/SERVICE SCAMS
Random people dressed as contractors knock on the door to say they were in the neighbourhood and noticed that the roof or driveway needs repair. They will often suggest that the situation is dangerous and must be repaired immediately. They say they have a “special deal” for seniors, but the rate will increase very soon. The worker will provide the victim with a “business card” with a cell number and no address. If the repair is booked now with a down payment for materials, they can get started right away—at the “special offer” rate. Needless to say, these scammers move on with the down payment and no work completed.
The senior will receive a phone call from the “bank” asking for help in solving a fraud, suggesting that they visit the bank to withdraw money and deposit into another account to see if the bank teller is honest. There is always a promise to return their money with a “payment” for their “undercover assistance.”
CANADA REVENUE SERVICE
Scammers will call, text and email pretending to be from the Canada Revenue Agency, law enforcement or the bank—some will even demand that fines or ransom should be paid in bitcoin. These calls should raise red flags as the tone is urgent in nature and oftentimes threatening.
SWEEPSTAKE AND LOTTERY SCAMS
The victim receives the good news that they have won a prize through a sweepstake or lottery. They only have to pay the taxes and processing fees to receive their winnings. The scammer will often request a credit card number so they can ensure “quick payment” for both. Requests for fees or taxes to process the “prize winnings” are never above board.
DELIVERY SCAMS
The victim will receive a call or text that there is a package to be delivered but the scammer/fraudster requests personal information to deliver a package. This scam allows for identity theft.
Photo: ArtMarie/E+ via Getty Images
We Believe is a six-part series on the Nicene Creed, which marks its 1,700th anniversary in 2025.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION
• What “wounds” or “invisible boundaries” do people experience in our culture?
• Where do you see The Salvation Army’s mission expressing the immensity of the concept of salvation?
FOR OUR SALVATION
How the Nicene Creed helps us rediscover the immensity of God’s saving grace.
BY MAJOR RAY HARRIS
“Who for us men and for our salvation came down from Heaven.”—Nicene Creed
It’s a Christian conviction that our world is not the world as God intends. In far too many respects it is a broken world, a wounded world. Its injustices, hatreds and invisible boundaries do not characterize the world God envisions. In response, however, God has acted, and continues to act, with grace. The comprehensive term used to speak of God’s response to our human condition is salvation. And the Nicene Creed has an important contribution to make toward our understanding of salvation.
The biblical concept of salvation is rich in its immensity. The Gospel of Luke begins with the chorus of angels near Bethlehem: “To you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour” (Luke 2:11 NRSVUE). In his public ministry, Jesus embodied the meaning of salvation: he forgave people their sins; he healed bodies; he welcomed the excluded into community. In the New Testament, salvation is portrayed as eternal life, new creation, reconciliation, justification and peace that creates a new community. In the Apostle Paul’s language, Christian believers are saved, are being saved and will be saved. For reasons such as these, William Booth named it a “boundless salvation.”
As with any concept, however, the Christian understanding of salvation underwent changes throughout the history of the church. During the complexity of that history, salvation became polarized, even fragmented. The Greek-speaking church in the East emphasized humanity’s diseased nature. In response, it focused on the life of Christ and depicted salvation as learning to be healed here and now. The Latin-speaking church in the West emphasized humanity’s guilt. It focused on the cross and depicted salvation as personal forgiveness from sin with a future in heaven. If asked today, many of us would say we are saved because we believe Jesus died for our sins. This is true, but there is more. A narrow view of salvation results in a narrow mission of the church. What is needed is the recovery of the wholeness of Christian salvation.
One way of recovering the immensity of salvation is to view it through the lens of the Nicene Creed (excerpts quoted in italics in this section). The creed connects our salvation with
the one Lord Jesus Christ. For our salvation this very God of very God became incarnate. In the language of John’s Gospel, “the Word became flesh and lived among us” (John 1:14 NRSVUE). The importance of this for our salvation is expressed by Gregory of Nazianzus when he says, “That which is not assumed is not healed.” Jesus has shared our full humanity and thus can save us fully. Yet his compassionate grace evoked opposition from those threatened by it, who turned him over to Pontius Pilate.
For our salvation Jesus was crucified. However, by his wounds we have been healed (see 1 Peter 2:24), and on the third day he rose again. On one occasion Jesus declared, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). To experience resurrection life here and now is the gift of salvation. And this life is available to us because the risen Christ ascended into Heaven and sitteth on the right hand of the Father. It is from his place of exaltation that Jesus pours out the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost (see Acts 2:33). The Spirit, the Giver of life, makes real the gift of salvation in the life of believers. Thus, Paul can say in Titus, “When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us … through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4-5 NRSVUE).
And this same Saviour shall come again with glory. Salvation is a reality now, and yet there is “a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:5 NRSVUE). God’s future will be characterized by the full realization of God’s immense salvation.
Viewing Christian salvation through the lens of the Nicene Creed helps to restore its immensity, thus, to shape us and our mission. A mission that practises hope for the addicted, the celebrity, the excluded and the wealthy. All for our salvation.
MAJOR RAY HARRIS
is a retired Salvation Army officer and author of Convictions Matter. His co-author of this series, Dr. James Read, was the executive director of The Salvation Army Ethics Centre for 27 years and was a member of the International Theological Council. Major Harris and Dr. Read attend Heritage Park Temple in Winnipeg.
CITIZEN KID
Four ways to help your children engage politically.
BY CAPTAIN BHREAGH ROWE
Let’s talk politics. (Three words I never thought would leave my mouth!) Over the last several months, with the inauguration of a new president in the United States and a federal election here in Canada, the world’s attention has been focused on leaders and platforms and policies—and our kids are watching how we engage. They’re learning from how we speak at the dinner table and what we post on social media. How do we teach them to engage politically, without losing sight of eternity?
Politics in themselves are not the problem. In fact, I would argue that Christians should be engaged. We should care deeply about justice, leadership and the protection of the vulnerable. But our engagement must look different because we serve a different kingdom. How do we teach our kids to be in the world, but not of it?
Here are a few truths we’ve been leaning on in our house:
1. It Doesn’t Matter as Much as We Think
I know that sounds jarring, but Jesus himself put politics in their place. When asked whether it was right to pay taxes to Caesar, he replied: “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21). Translation: be a good citizen, but don’t confuse your government with your God. Jesus lived under Roman rule, yet he never spent his time trying to fix Rome—he spent his life proclaiming the kingdom. Teach your kids, be informed, be engaged. But don’t expect the kingdom to come through a policy. It already came through a Saviour.
2. Don’t Fight for a Seat—Build a Table
The world will tell you to climb the ladder. To fight for your voice to be heard. To get to the top because only then will you matter. But Jesus didn’t fight for a seat in the temple. He flipped the tables.
He didn’t push for power in the Roman courts. He walked dusty roads, washed feet and fed the hungry. Jesus didn’t ask for influence, he created space. That’s what kingdom engagement looks like.
We don’t need to claw our way into broken systems. We’re called to build our own tables—ones marked by grace, love and humility. And when we build those tables, we invite everyone: the politically passionate, the weary, the hopeful. All are welcome.
Teach your kids this: you don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room. You probably shouldn’t be. Just make sure your voice and your posture are like Jesus.
3. Step Back: Is This Eternal or Temporal?
One of the most helpful tools we can give our children is discernment, the ability to pause and ask: does this really matter for eternity? We waste a lot of time rearranging furniture in a house that’s destined to crumble. But the kingdom of God? It’s eternal. It’s unshakable. It’s not red or blue or green or purple—it’s righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (see Romans 14:17).
Before we plant our flag in a political stance, let’s ask: does this position reflect the heart of Jesus? Does this fight point people to the cross? Does this conversation bear eternal fruit—or is it just temporary noise?
Because sometimes, we’re just rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic—and God’s calling us to build lifeboats.
4. Walk Roads That Lead to Love, Safety and God’s Presence
This is the real test of our engagement: does it create safety for the vulnerable? Does it reflect the love of God? Does it make space for the presence of Jesus?
That’s the road we want to walk. That’s what we want to model for our children.
We’re not teaching our kids to avoid politics. We’re teaching them to go deeper than politics. To think critically, love radically and remember that kingdom things are always the main thing. We are raising image-bearers, not party members. So, let’s teach them the Scriptures, rather than slogans. Teach them to listen before they speak. Teach them that righteousness and justice are the foundations of God’s throne (see Psalm 89:14), and that starts in our homes, not in the House of Commons.
At the end of the day, we’re not raising activists—we’re raising disciples. And disciples don’t need a seat at the table. They’ve already been invited to the only one that matters.
CAPTAIN BHREAGH ROWE
is the community ministries officer, St. Albert Church and Community Centre, Alta.
THE GRANDEST, MERRIEST, STRANGEST LIFE —AND HOW TO LIVE IT
New book invites readers into a Christ-centred journey of transformation.
Grandest: The Inside Scoop on How to Live the Grandest Merriest Strangest Life That Can Be Lived on Earth is a non-fiction book inspired by Commissioner George Scott Railton’s life and famous quote: “The life of a soul saver is the grandest, merriest, strangest life that can be lived on earth—the life of Jesus lived over again in us. It will cost you all, but it will be a good bargain at that!”
Authored by Major Terence Hale and Major Stephen Court, it begins with a biographical introduction to Commissioner Railton, and each subsequent chapter addresses a topic or theme that people can apply to their own lives to experience a full life in Christ. Chapters include excerpts of Commissioner Railton’s own writing as well as connections to his life and ministry.
Grandest is a mix of evangelism and discipleship, history and present-day Christian living, and it invites readers to reflect on how a relationship with Christ can bring about transformation in their lives. The book appeals to both Salvationists and general audiences, and can serve as an individual or group study tool.
Ultimately, Grandest seeks to introduce the reader to salvation through Jesus Christ—forgiveness of sins, the hope of a transformed life and an eternity with God.
What inspired you to write this book?
Major Stephen Court: In general, books are a good way to evangelize people. The Salvation Army helps people across the world through our social services programs, and we saw an opportunity to customize this purely evangelistic book for our clients.
Major Terence Hale: The original inspiration for the project came from Railton House, a corrections ministry that is a part of the Halifax Centre of Hope. Railton House, located in Dartmouth, N.S., ministers to men who are transitioning out of incarceration. We wanted people who stay at Railton House to know more about the ministry’s namesake. It grew from there.
Can you briefly explain some of the experiences or expertise you have drawn on to write this book?
TH: Nearly two-and-a-half decades of officership, and now working in social mission, has exposed me to the stories and journeys of many people. I have seen the transformation that a life with Jesus can bring. Whether working with those in addiction recovery or those facing homelessness, the promise of new life in Christ, the grandest kind of life, has become increasingly practical.
The possibility of transformation is the heart of this book.
Who is this book for and what do you hope they will take away from it? What can readers expect to find inside?
SC: The book is aimed at pre-Christian communities, although the climactic twist at the end is important news for most professing Christians.
The book is aspirational—more spiritual than self-help, more realistic than motivational, and more ambitious than personal growth. It is saturated with eternally transformational potential for every reader.
TH: We want people to realize that God is still writing their story, and the best is yet to come through Christ. Readers can expect to find a good mix of biography, theology and challenge, laying out the possibility of a life wrapped up in Jesus.
Can you share a part of the book that feels especially meaningful to you?
TH: From when I first came across it, I can’t seem to shake the story of Railton’s death and the note that he had sown into his jacket. Check out the book for the full run-down, but the last line of the note is a great invitation: “I’m going to heaven. Meet me there!” For me this is an inspiring and challenging piece of his story.
Is there anything more you would like people to know about Grandest?
SC: We’d love to see every social unit and community and family services unit across the territory share a copy with the clients and customers they serve.
TH: I hope this book sparks whispers of revolution that turn into full cries of transformative submission to God. I hope people will talk about the possibilities of the grandest, merriest, strangest life for them.
This is not a big or complicated book, but the message punches well above its weight when you consider the change that is possible from such a simple premise. But, once again, that is nothing really to do with the book or the authors. Jesus is the secret sauce.
MAJOR TERENCE HALE
is the executive director at the Halifax Centre of Hope.
MAJOR STEPHEN COURT
is the corps officer at Harvest Community Church in Burnaby, B.C.
“The book is aspirational—more spiritual than self-help, more realistic than motivational, and more ambitious than personal growth.”
MAJOR STEPHEN COURT
“The possibility of transformation is the heart of this book.”
MAJOR TERENCE HALE
In consultation with Lord Robert BadenPowell, the founder of the Scouts movement in the United Kingdom, General William Booth created a Salvationist Scouting program in the early years of the 20th century. The LifeSaving Scouts program for boys was introduced in England in 1913, followed by the Life-Saving Guards for girls in 1915. The original aim of the program was “to spread Christ’s Kingdom among all classes, as well as to those attached to our Corps and to train them.”
These programs made their way to Canada in 1915, and groups sprang up across the country. Branches for younger members soon appeared, with Chums for
Living History is an ongoing series showcasing just a small assortment of the more than 350,000 items housed at The Salvation Army Heritage Centre in Toronto. This month, we showcase its large collection of Scouting artifacts.
A-SCOUTING WE WILL GO
The Scouting movement has played an important part in the history of The Salvation Army.
boys and Sunbeams for girls.
The participants went camping, earned badges, put on concerts and displays, helped their communities and practised new skills. According to the February 26, 1927, edition of The War Cry, programs included “physical drill, observation tests, healthy games, methods of First Aid, … life-saving, … cookery, needlework, home nursing and housewifery.” Guards passed through Second Class and First Class tests before striving for the General’s Tassel, the highest award for Guards or Scouts.
ing back more than 85 years. By 1961, membership in groups affiliated with Girl Guides, which had been established in the United Kingdom by Agnes Baden-Powell, younger sister of Lord Baden-Powell, had reached 3,824 Brownies, 2,810 Guides and eight Rangers.
The Life-Saving Scouts and Guards movement was also a fertile field for soldiership. Many soldiers and officers would testify that these movements were their first introduction to The Salvation Army.
The Salvation Army has a long history with Scouts Canada, with a memorandum of agreement to work together reach-
The Heritage Centre boasts a wonderful selection of uniforms, sashes, hats, tams and other assorted paraphernalia, testifying to the rich influence that Scouting has had on The Salvation Army.
Scout leader uniform made from blue cotton twill from the 3rd Toronto Scout troop with badges
Cub belt
Official leaders’ hat of Boy Scouts Canada
Salvation Army Life-Saving Guards ribbon
Scouts march past a Salvation Army reviewing rostrum in 1962
Main photo: Courtesy of The Salvation Army
Centre; inset
photos: Camilo Mejia
WINNIPEG—In a service of recognition and thanksgiving, Living Hope CC installs new CSM Patricia Timmerman, honours retiring CSM Ken Davis following more than 40 years of service, introduces the mission board and pastoral committee, and acknowledges its past and present leaders.
“Living Hope isn’t just a building; it’s a family. It’s a place where we feel like we belong, where we can grow, and where we can share God’s love,” says Lt Krishna McFarlane, CO. Front, from left, Bernice McGuire, Maureen Capuska, Beverley Partaker, Mjr Barbara Bain and Davis. Back, from left, Lt McFarlane, Patricia Timmerman, Vincent Lusanji, Donna Davis, Feranmi Toye, Johnson Boateng, Sandra Capuska, Yvonne Rideout, Janet Timmerman (on behalf of SL Donald Timmerman), Janet Nelson, and Lt-Cols Donna and Donald Bladen, divisional leaders, Prairies and Northern Territories Div.
—Two senior soldiers and three junior soldiers are enrolled at Agincourt Temple CC, with soldiership classes taught by Mjr Catherine Skillin and Ellen Craggs. Front, from left, Mjr Skillin; Daniella Festus and Karyne Lemieux, senior soldiers; Acacia Sharp, Judah Law-Ahmiegbe and Jaxson Wilson, junior soldiers. Back, from left, Craggs; Cpts Scott and Cathy Allen, then COs; and CSM Norman Robertson, holding the flag.
TORONTO
TORONTO—Five adherents are enrolled at North Toronto CC. From left, then Cdt John Arndt; Mahmoud Nazari; Christine Tea Young Oh; Sunitha Putchakayala; Vijay Putchakayala; Tom Nesbitt, holding the flag; Charlie Metcalf; and Cpts Curtis and Erin Metcalf, COs.
BAY ROBERTS, N.L.—Bay Roberts Corps enrols five senior soldiers on Easter Sunday. From left, Cpt Ken Brown, then CO; David Hunt; Georgie Hunt; Caroline Anthony; Bert Bartlett, holding the flag; Lorraine Collins; Jabez Vivian; and Cpt Elsie Brown, then CO.
SASKATOON—Supported by their corps officers and prayer team, two junior soldiers are enrolled at Saskatoon Temple. From left, Tim Kerr, holding the flag; Cpt Angela Kerr, CO; Brooke Sawatzky; Laura Ward, junior soldier; YPSM Sarah Rowe; Elizabeth Clare, junior soldier; Tyler Rowe; CSM Kerri Cryderman; and Cpt Derek Kerr, CO.
B.C.—The Salvation Army breaks ground on the New Hope Centre in Nanaimo. The four-storey building will be comprised of 16 modular sections with an additional capacity of 28 beds, a community dining room, full commercial kitchen and program and administration space. From left, Scott Martin, construction foreman; Leonard Krog, mayor of Nanaimo; and Bern Muller, executive director.
ONT.—One adherent and four senior soldiers are enrolled at Oshawa Temple. From left, RS Linda Leigh; Cpt Colleen Gleadall, CO; CSM Al Speed; Martins Adeyemi, Kudzai Kashiri, Joshua Babatunda and Bridget Marara, senior soldiers; Cpt Justin Gleadall, CO; and Janet Miller, adherent.
INTERNATIONAL
Appointments: Cols Ann/Richard Borrett, TPWM/TC, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand Tty; Cols Philip/Sheila Davisson, secretary for training and leader development/secretary for international personnel, IHQ; Lt-Cols Elder/Roxana Dinardi, TC/TPWM, South America East Tty, with rank of col; Lt-Cols João/Karin Ramos, TC/TPWM, Eastern Europe Tty, with rank of col; Mjrs David/Diana Campos, CS/TSWM, South America East Tty, with rank of lt-col; Mjrs Anna/David Kotrikadze, territorial secretary for leader development/CS, Eastern Europe Tty, with rank of lt-col
TERRITORIAL
Appointments: Lt-Col Tiffany Marshall, DC, B.C. Div; Mjr Cavell Loveless, community and family services officer, Gander, N.L., Atlantic Div (additional responsibility); Lt Kerrin Fraser, area youth officer, Prairies and Northern Territories Div (additional responsibility); Sep 1—Lt April Barthau, older peoples residential care co-ordinator and assistant health services officer, program resources department, IHQ; Lt Marco Herrera Lopizic, international health services co-ordinator, program resources department, IHQ
Post-retirement ministry: Mjrs Gary/Sharon Cooper, chaplains/ supervisors, JPRCC, Ont. Div
Promoted to glory: Mjr Anthony Barry, Mar 7; Col John Carew, Mar 9; Col David Gruer, Mar 26; Cpt Shirley Andrews, Mar 27; Cpt Alice Goodridge, Apr 3; Mjr Willis Drover, Apr 9; Mjr Melvin Fisher, Apr 10; Mjr Laureen Twyne, Apr 15
CALENDAR
Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves: Aug 3 East Kootenay Circuit, Fernie, B.C.; Aug 24 Territorial Music School, JPRCC
Canadian Staff Songsters: Jul 3-13 United Kingdom tour; Aug 24 Territorial Music School, JPRCC
ORILLIA, ONT.—Orillia Citadel recognizes Alan Flannigan as he retires following 70 years of music ministry during which he served as a band member, bandmaster and young people’s band leader. Flannigan is pictured with his appreciation certificate and a special cake to mark the occasion, accompanied by BM Laura Pitcher.
NANAIMO,
ORILLIA, ONT.—Orillia Citadel celebrates the enrolment of two adherents and two senior soldiers. From left, Marilyn Brook, adherent; Cpt Tina Howard, CO; Jennifer Collins, adherent; Twylla Jaques and Jean Kenny, senior soldiers; Ivan Downey, holding the flag; Mjr Grace Hustler, membership class teacher; and Cpt Josh Howard, CO.
OSHAWA,
“I
Q&
AWayne Bryenton attends Charlottetown Community Church, P.E.I., where he volunteers three mornings a week, driving the van to pick up supplies for the Army’s breakfast program and food bank.
“HE’S ALWAYS THERE”
Simple trust in a God who hears.
How did you connect with the Army?
Tell us a little about your early years.
I grew up in a small community called Brackley, about six kilometres outside Charlottetown, with four brothers and one sister. My parents delivered the mail along our rural route. They’d go to town in the morning to sort mail, and when I was young, before I went to school, I’d go with them to the post office and sleep on the mail bags.
We attended a Pentecostal church, and we were there a lot—it felt like my mom took us every time the door was open. I gave my heart to the Lord when I was 12, but it didn’t seem to stick. As a teenager, I rebelled. Like many people, I went through a stage where I didn’t want to go to church.
My mom passed away when I was 17, and being brought up in the church, I knew that’s where you go back when anything bad happens.
I was married at 19 to my first wife, and we were together for 30 years. We have four children, all grown up with families of their own.
I worked in the gas bar of a convenience store, and that’s where I met Margaret, my second wife. She worked up front at the cash register. We didn’t really pay much attention to each other until she brought in some cherry cheesecake and gave me a piece. It was good, and I jokingly said, “I’m going to marry you.” We started hanging around together. She grew up in The Salvation Army, so we went back and forth between the Pentecostal church and the Army. After we got married, we decided to make the Army our church home.
How has God been faithful during a difficult time?
God has been with me through many hard times. God sustained me when I lost my mother, and when Margaret passed away. We celebrated our first wedding anniversary in May 2010, and she passed away in December 2011. Life has many disappointments, but I think the hardest thing to go through is the death of a loved one. Knowing that you can turn to God for comfort, because he said he will never leave you or forsake you, keeps you going. And I had my church family—people who stuck beside me and helped me get through.
What spiritual practices have shaped you the most?
I read the Bible every morning and thank God for his grace that is new every day. I know he’s always there and any time that you do get down or things go
wrong, you can come to him right away. In our Bible study, we’re reading Day by Day: Call to Mission by Commissioner Robert Street. I was just reading about prayer, about knowing that God is your Father, and you can go to him at any time. My father and I weren’t that close. He went to teach at the Halifax School for the Blind when I was 12, and he wasn’t home that much. So, it’s hard sometimes to comprehend a father that unconditionally loves you. But I know I can come to God, that he’s there and willing to listen. Not that he always changes things, necessarily, but if he doesn’t solve the problem, he helps you get through the problem.
Why do you volunteer?
Volunteering gives me a reason to get moving. I like the people I work with at the Army, and I like that I can do my bit to help.
What inspires you about the Army?
It inspires me to know that no matter who you are, if there is a need, The Salvation Army will help if they can, and we try to be nonjudgmental.
What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
When not at the Army, I spend my time reading, watching too much TV, visiting friends and just puttering around the house.
Anything else you’d like to share? It is important to be honest and keep your word and, above all, trust God with everything.
know I can come to God, that he’s there and willing to listen,” says Wayne Bryenton
E D U C A T I O N F O R A B E T T E R W O R L D
Edu c a t i o n s ho u ldn ’t j u s t p r e p a r e y o u fo r a j o b, i t s ho u ld p r e p a r e y o u t o m a ke a di ffe r e n c e .
BUSINESS
SOCIAL WORK
CONTINUING STUDIES
STORE HELPS P.10 Looking for Hope “LET’S GO” P.12
Faith & Friends
INSPIRATION FOR LIVING Sermon on the Mount NEW SERIES P.25 Case of the Missing Bicycle
JULY/ AUGUST 2025
NOW IN HIS FOURTH DECADE IN THE INDUSTRY, SINGERSONGWRITER STEVE BELL SHOWS NO SIGN OF STOPPING. P.16
PHRASE BE is an ongoing series highlighting the dozens of everyday sayings that originate with biblical text.
In this issue, we unpack:
PHRASE: Let there be light.
DEFINITION: A casual remark used when someone turns a light on.
EXAMPLE: “Let there be light!” the teenager announced as he opened the refrigerator door.
SOURCE: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”
1:3
LET THERE BE
LIGHT
God’s command for light marked the first act of creation, separating the light from the darkness and signifying the beginning of time itself. The chaos of the darkness was dispelled by the Creator and emphasized the power of His Word. Simply put, God created by speaking!
Though it is often used in jest, God’s first words in the Bible are still hugely significant today. The separation of light from darkness is a recurring theme in the Bible, culminating in the coming of Jesus, who is referred to in the New Testament as the “Light of the World.” Theologically, light represents order, knowledge and life, contrasting with darkness, which symbolizes chaos, ignorance and death. In all things, God expects us to walk in the light, as we strive for beauty and goodness over ugliness and sin.
12 “Let’s Go”
SOMEONE CARES
5 A Beautiful Diversity
Salvation Army congregation in Ottawa welcomes new Canadians into their neighbourhood.
CAMP TALES
8 Being Humble
One man’s lifelong journey with a Salvation Army camp.
COMMON GROUND
10 The Case of the Stolen Bicycle
Major Jason Sabourin had a decision to make. But could he go through with it?
16 Modern-Day Troubadour
Now in his fourth decade in the industry, singersongwriter Steve Bell shows no sign of stopping.
22 Putting the Pieces Together
A simple request led to a lifetime of service for Major Mary Millar.
A young woman retrieves a family treasure at a Salvation Army thrift store in Saskatchewan. BE BLESSED
25 Eight Truths to a God-Blessed Life
A new series introduces Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount. LITE STUFF
28 Eating Healthy With Erin Word Search, Sudoku, Quick Quiz. A GLOBAL LENS
31 Uniting Hearts
In El Salvador, The Salvation Army’s Brighter Futures Children’s Sponsorship Program provides a safe, nurturing environment.
Cover photo: Jason Johnson
Lost and Found
Reading “The Case of the Stolen Bicycle” on page 10, of the woman who found her lost family treasure at a Salvation Army thrift store, reminded me of my own lost-and-found story.
Shortly before Christmas, I had lent two of my favourite books to a friend, but when I asked her about them, she shamefully confessed that she, in her turn, had lent them out-and now she had no clue where they were. I was crestfallen.
That Christmas, besides my stint on the kettles, I volunteered to help some Army colleagues go carolling at a school for new immigrants and a special-needs facility. After a satisfying time, we dispersed to go shopping at our local Salvation Army thrift store. As I perused the book stacks, I jokingly told a friend, “Wouldn’t it be funny if I found my two lost books here?”
And then, there, on the shelf, were the same books! But not only were they the same editions, they were my own copies, bookplated and all!
With the quick turnover of items at the thrift store, I might not have found my books a day or even a week later. The volunteering of my time and effort had garnered an unlooked for and unexpected reward.
The redemptive quality of Salvation Army thrift stores cannot be denied. As with Christianity, they provide a second chance, in this case for a lost and wayward pair of books.
Besides the lost-and-found bicycle, this issue of Faith & Friends has an exclusive interview with Juno Award-winning singer-songwriter Steve Bell, and we debut a new limited series on Jesus’ Beatitudes, revolutionary teachings that resonate two millennia later.
Ken Ramstead
Mission Statement
To show Christ at work in the lives of real people, and to provide spiritual resources for those who are new to the Christian faith.
Faith & Friends is published bimonthly by:
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International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4P 4EP, England
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All Together
An English conversation class at Barrhaven Church aids new Canadians to feel at home in their community
Standing Tall
Many members of the Barrhaven congregation and community partners volunteer with the English conversation class
A Beautiful Diversity
Salvation Army congregation in Ottawa welcomes new Canadians into their neighbourhood.
by Jeanette Levellie
Photos: Courtesy of Captain Laura Van Schaick
In the fall of 2023, two members of The Salvation Army Barrhaven Church in Ottawa approached Captain Laura Van Schaick with an idea. They wanted to start a multicultural ministry to reach out to newcomers in their neighbourhood.
“One of these individuals is an immigrant from Venezuela, the other from Korea,” says Captain Laura, who serves as a pastor at Barrhaven Church. “They understood what it is to be a newcomer to Canada and wanted to help support others in their transition to our country.”
Birth of a Multicultural Ministry
The result: a multicultural ministries program. One of the features of the ministry is an English conversation class, aiding new Canadians to feel at home in their community.
Love New Canadians (lovenewcanadians.ca), a Salvation Army mission partner that works with local churches, supported Barrhaven Church with English conversation class resources as they planned and carried out their ministry to immigrants, refugees and newcomers.
The people at Barrhaven Church thought English classes would be the best way to reach out to their neighbourhood. They knew how essential language is to help individuals feel they belong in a new country and culture. Communication is also vital for
education, employment and making friends. A quick search for similar opportunities in the area yielded few results, which proved to the team that this was a niche they could fill.
Although it took a year to launch the program, Captain Laura explains, it was worth all the effort.
“As a pastor,” she says, “part of my role involves supporting church members in using their God-given gifts to help make our community the best it can be.”
She loved helping these two individuals build a team, develop a program plan and network with community partners to launch the church’s multicultural ministries in the fall of 2024.
Flourishing Relationships
Captain Laura was encouraged by the enthusiastic response to the startup of the English conversation classes. Many members of the Barrhaven congregation and community partners stepped up to volunteer.
“On a regular basis, about 10 church members are involved in the classes,” Captain Laura shares.
But Captain Laura didn’t just encourage her congregation to get involved in the classes; she also played a part in their success. She personally facilitated some of the sessions and finds great joy in the ministry.
“I’ve learned a lot about the participants’ countries of origin—
Support System
“As a pastor,” Captain Laura Van Schaick says, “part of my role involves supporting church members in using their Godgiven gifts to help make our community the best it can be”
New ‘Do
An Iranian member of the English conversation class gives Captain Laura a haircut
they come from 19 different countries, including China, Costa Rica and Morocco—just as I have been able to share our distinctive Canadian culture,” she says. “A woman from Iran came early to one of the conversation classes and gave me a haircut. (She worked in this field before coming to Canada.) I’ve collaborated with an Afghani woman to write an article in Faith & Friends’ sister magazine, Salvationist, about the struggles of women in her country of origin. I’m thankful for the opportunity to amplify her voice.”
As well, the church has hosted international potluck meals, which provide opportunity for new Canadians to showcase their delicious ethnic cuisines.
Captain Laura believes this unique ministry has created wonderful opportunities for positive relationships to flourish, and she’s learned and benefited as much from
the participants as she hopes they have from the teachers of the classes.
Part of the Community
The Barrhaven congregation has a long history of welcoming new friends to Canada. They’ve sponsored refugee families in the past, most recently welcoming a family from South Sudan in 2018.
Last year a man from Ethiopia who the church supported was able to bring his wife and sons to Canada. The congregation provided support in many practical ways to prepare for their arrival and helped them feel welcomed.
“We have several congregation members who are newcomers to Canada themselves, and the broader church welcomes them fully,” says Captain Laura. “It’s beautiful seeing our congregation become more diverse as new friends to Canada become a part of our faith community.”
Photos:
Courtesy of Captain Laura Van Schaick
Social Climbers
Jacob Humble (centre), in his role as challenge course co-ordinator, supervises the rock-climbing course
Being Humble
One man’s lifelong journey with a Salvation Army camp.
by Juan Romero
Jacob Humble has been involved with The Salvation Army for most of his life. Currently the challenge course co-ordinator for Camp Sunrise in Gibsons, B.C., his connection to this camp goes back to when he was a toddler.
“My dad came to this camp when he was a kid,” Jacob shares. “He grew to love the place and worked here for a bit.”
Lifelong Commitment
His parents, who volunteered at camp, would often bring Jacob, and from a very young age. His constant presence led to one of his first childhood milestones at Camp Sunrise.
“I actually took my first steps here at camp,” Jacob says.
From the age of seven to when he was 16, Jacob was a camper.
He later participated in a leadership training program, which eventually led him to the position of challenge course co-ordinator. This is his fourth summer in this role, and he loves being a positive influence in children’s lives.
“The main objective is for them to have fun and do something that they wouldn’t normally get to do,” Jacob says. “It’s a chance for them to do new things that don’t involve a computer or the internet.”
Leading Campers
The challenge course includes physical activities, such as rock climbing, high ropes and ziplining. These help campers conquer their fears and promote teamwork skills. Jacob says that when he was a camper, they shaped his current interests.
“Some key takeaways for me were growing a sense of adventure and learning how to do things with my hands,” he says. “All that stuff was just so thrilling to me. I love that sense of adventure, which is something that I try to provide for these children.”
Additionally, Jacob also attended music camp, which sparked his passion for playing the guitar. Thanks to this skill, he leads worship at his local church and teaches other children how to play.
Preparing for the Future
Currently, Jacob is a student at the
University of Victoria. He hopes to become a high school teacher once he finishes his studies. He believes his experience as a co-ordinator at Camp Sunrise is helping him build valuable skills that he can put to work in the future.
“It helps with leadership skills; it helps me to learn how to manage a group of people and to guide them through an activity. I’ve learned different tricks to get a group’s attention, so it’s been a great opportunity.”
“I love that sense of adventure.”
JACOB HUMBLE
Jacob’s lifelong involvement with The Salvation Army has shaped him into the leader and example he is today for the children he helps. He credits his dad with instilling this passion in him.
“I think my dad is proud. I would say it was secretly his intention. He wanted me to get as obsessed with this place as he did. He definitely succeeded.”
I Heart the Army
“I am blown away by everyone’s kindness,” says Demi Peterson of the Salvation Army thrift store staff
The Salvation Army thrift store in Swift Current, Sask., recently reunited a local woman with a sentimental item that belonged to her late sister.
Unexpected Encounter
Demi Peterson was walking in downtown Swift Current with a friend when she happened by the thrift store’s display window. When she saw the blue-and-white cruiser bike, she stopped in her tracks. She knew immediately that it was the same one that had been stolen from her yard last year.
“I was out with a friend downtown, and we couldn’t find parking, so we ended up walking past The Salvation Army,” Demi explains. “I wasn’t even
The Case of the Stolen Bicycle
A young woman retrieves a family treasure at a Salvation Army thrift store in Saskatchewan.
by Kristin Marand
meant to be on the street that day, let alone downtown. I looked up, and right there is the bike sitting in the window.
“I couldn’t even speak a word to my friend. I just went right in.”
Emotional Transaction
Typically, items in the display window are reserved for silent auction, one way the thrift store raises money for local Salvation Army community programs in Swift Current, so Demi wasn’t sure if she’d be able to get the bike back.
Demi shared her story with the person working the till, who called the manager, Lori Reimer, to see what they could do. While waiting for Lori, a woman shopping in the store
Photo: Kristin Marand
overheard the situation and offered to help Demi get the bike back.
“I come upstairs, and there is a woman there, and she’s crying,” remembers Lori. “She starts to tell me the story about how the bike in the window was stolen last summer from her yard and how that bike belonged to her sister, who had recently died. She wanted to know how she could get the bike back.
“Demi showed me a picture of the bike from when she posted on Facebook that it was missing, but I could tell it was a true story. So we went into the window, and I pulled the bike out and gave it to her. She thanked me, and it was very emotional all the way around.”
“A
Soft Presence”
“And what was so lovely about it was we also had a customer in the store at the time who had offered to pay for the bike, and there was a gentleman who helped her when she left with the bike. It’s just so lovely to be part of such a good community where people are willing to help a stranger,” Lori says.
“So much kindness yesterday, and I am still in shock,” Demi wrote in a Facebook post in the Swift Current Compliments group. “I want to send out the absolute biggest thank you to the ladies at The Salvation Army yesterday. The lady working the till, the manager, the lady in line behind me who offered help and the man who held the door open for me afterward. Thank you to everyone involved. I was ready to pay any amount to get this bike back in my possession, and I am blown away by everyone’s kindness.”
Lori says that while this was a special circumstance, the thrift store is often a place of community connection.
“It’s a soft presence of the church,” she says. “We’re in a really good location, and lots of people walk by. At the till, Dawnell is very kind and very involved with the community. She’ll know if somebody has had a fire and knows the need. We also have people who come in every day. I think we’re just a place to go to see a friendly face. We are very missional in our intention.”
(left)
Kristin Marand is the manager of communications for The Salvation Army’s Prairies and Northern Territories Division. With a background in media and a passion for weaving language and sharing stories, Kristin is a proud Métis on her own journey of reclamation.
At the Ready
Major Jason Sabourin lends a hand during grand opening celebrations of the newly built Salvation Army Hope Church and Community Services facility in Ajax, Ont.
“Let’s
MAJOR
Go”
JASON SABOURIN HAD A DECISION TO MAKE THAT CHRISTMAS EVE. BUT COULD HE GO THROUGH WITH IT?
by Ken Ramstead
“
The first time I went to a Salvation Army church,” says Jason Sabourin, “there was a fellow there who looked to be in his 30s with a nice suit on— but he had a tattoo of a scorpion that stretched from the back of his ear all the way around to the front of his neck. I thought to myself, Hoo boy, you better get out of here. You’re not going to be welcome. My idea of church then was that
that was where all the good, clean people went. People are going to kick him out once they see that big tattoo.”
But what Jason saw was the pastor treating him the same as everybody else.
“It was like it didn’t matter,” he recalls. “The pastor saw him as an equal.
“That made a very big impression upon me.”
Thrift Store Church
Born in Toronto, Jason grew up in Ajax, Ont. His father was a police officer while his mother was a medical staff secretary and administrative assistant.
“I grew up pretty middle class,” he says. “Played hockey, that kind of thing, but church was not a part of our life.”
Because the family was halfCatholic, half-Protestant, they never discussed religion.
“We celebrated Christmas and Easter, but religion never entered our lives,” says Jason.
That is, until he met a girl and found out that Tammy was the daughter of Salvation Army pastors.
The Salvation Army? For Jason, that was a thrift store.
New Beginning
Jason and Tammy started to date.
“She was in her own wilderness time,” says Jason, “trying to find her faith and working through her journey.”
But he started to attend Army church services with her.
“Tammy’s father, Major Doug Butt, was a wonderful guy, very kind, very welcoming. We got along very well,” says Jason. “But I wanted to make a good impression on the parents, so I started to go to church on Sundays.”
That was when he witnessed Tammy’s father and how he interacted with the man with the tattoo.
Maybe there was something to this
Salvation Army, Jason thought. Intrigued, Jason started to read the Bible.
“I started to realize that this Jesus fellow was actually not who I thought He was. He was a lot more heroic in the way He pushed against the establishment, and I resonated with that.”
“I couldn’t deny the feeling that I was being called to something more. I was running out of excuses not to be a Christian.“
MAJOR JASON SABOURIN
No Excuses Left
God was working on both Jason and Tammy, who were now happily married. One day Tammy told Jason, “I feel like I want to get back to my roots, to my faith, like there’s something missing”
As it happened, The Salvation Army was opening a new church plant in Ajax, where they lived. The couple decided to attend the meet-and-greet.
“The first thing I noticed was people my age, who had the same interests I had, such as hockey,” Jason recalls. “It wasn’t a stuffy church, either. The music was upbeat, and people seemed excited to be there.”
This could be OK, he thought.
The couple started attending church on a regular basis, and Jason’s life started to change.
“I had stopped drinking altogether,” he says. “I was reading my Bible and I even devoured volumes of Salvation Army history. My spirit was already committed, and I couldn’t deny the feeling that I was being called to something more.
“I was running out of excuses not to be a Christian.”
“All In”
As Christmas Eve 2000 approached, Jason realized that the evening service was going to be where he had to take the next step.
He knew that, for Tammy’s parents, the altar call, where you declare your faith in front of the entire congregation, was important.
“I felt that, too.
“In my spirit, I had already committed to God, but I needed that outward peace. You have this connectivity to God but by going forward at this time, you completed the transaction—like closing the loop in electricity.
“Was it a necessity? No. Was it a necessity for me? Yes. This is something I needed to do. This was the last step.”
A Listening Ear
Major Jason speaking to a member of the community at an open house held at Hope Church and Community Services
However, it was one thing for Jason to know what had to be done, and quite another to do it. And as he held his wife’s hand in the pew that night, he knew what he had to do.
Tammy had been going through her own journey and was ready to recommit her life as a Christian, but she wasn’t going to do that without her husband.
“At that point, I just grabbed her hand and said, ‘Come on, let’s go,’ ” Jason says. “And so we went.
“Internally, spiritually, it was quite a moment because I realized I held nothing back anymore. There was nothing left. I was all in.”
Full Circle
The Sabourins attended the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg and became Salvation Army pastors. Eleven years ago, they were appointed to lead The Salvation Army’s Hope Church in Ajax, the very place where they had started their faith journey so long ago.
“Hope is the place that I came to faith and then went out to pastorship from there,” says Major Jason.
“To come back almost 10 years later to give leadership, to walk with people in town who have watched you grow up and helped you on your journey, is quite an amazing thing.”
Here for Hope Major Jason in full uniform at a formal event of Hope Church and Community Services
Photos: Courtesy of Major Jason Sabourin
Guitar Man
Since 1989, Steve Bell has performed more than 2,000 concerts to half a million people around the world, including Canada, the United States and the Caribbean
Photo: Jason Johnson
NOW IN HIS FOURTH DECADE IN THE INDUSTRY, SINGERSONGWRITER STEVE BELL SHOWS NO SIGN OF STOPPING.
He’s been called “a resolute Christian pilgrim; a spiritual sommelier; a ‘deeper-life’ troubadour” by award-winning film producer Jim Van Eerden, and the description is apt. Singer-songwriter and guitarist Steve Bell is one of the best-known Christian musicians in Canada. Among his many awards in his 35-year career are two Junos and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
“I’ve just let the songs come,” Steve says. “I recorded them, and I go sing them wherever people want to hear them, and that has seemed to be enough.”
Transcending and supplementing his music—23 albums and counting—is Steve’s commitment to advocacy, which has raised significant support for organizations such as World Vision, Canadian Foodgrains Bank and Compassion Canada.
Faith & Friends interviewed Steve in Winnipeg.
You are a member of the Order of Canada. Can you tell us about that? Yes, my name was announced in December 2022, along with the names of other appointees. The investiture took place at Rideau Hall last December, and I had lunch with the Governor General, the Honourable Mary Simon. That was wonderful because she’s Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General. That’s meaningful for me having been a small part of some Indigenous justice efforts. I see the award not so much as a recognition of the work I’ve done, but more for what they hope I will continue to do in the future, to contribute with my art and my efforts to the betterment of Canada. And that’s just fine with me!
Medal Holder
Steve with Governor General Mary Simon on the day of his official investiture of the Order of Canada
What is the song that you’re the proudest of?
I wrote a song in 1994 called Burning Ember in response to the writings of a Russian Orthodox priest in the late 19th century, Father John of Kronstadt. He wrote about the fundamental dignity of the human being, who he said is like a piece of iron that, if you put it in a fire, has the capacity to take on the qualities of fire, heat, light. And if you leave it there long enough, it’ll turn white hot. The iron, even though the energy of fire is foreign to it, will take it and hold it. You can burn with it, you can probably start another fire with it, but if you put it out, it turns back to cold metal.
Photo: Nanci Bell
His message was to lay our life in the fire of God’s divine love in order to become by grace what God is by nature. Anything less is beneath our dignity.
When I sat back and looked objectively at Burning Ember, I realized that the song was wiser than I was. The song knew more than I did. I’m constantly going back and seeing something new in it that I didn’t know was there before. I’m really not writing songs anymore to try to tell you what I think or what I know. Songwriting for me now is a process of discovery, and how I wring a bit of truth or goodness or beauty out of it.
That song fundamentally changed how I think about songwriting.
How has songwriting deepened your faith?
Ronald Rolheiser is a Catholic priest and theologian who wrote a book called Holy Longing. I was at a Henri Nouwen Society conference years ago in Toronto, and he was a keynote speaker; I was just sort of “the singer guy.”
He said the difference between Nouwen’s writing on spirituality compared to everyone else’s is that most people are writing about spirituality while Nouwen’s writing is spirituality. He said it’s not pointed to anything. It is the thing.
I realized that songwriting was like that for me. It is how I pray. It’s how I think and how I learn. When I sing my songs, I’m actually letting you in on my personal prayer diary.
Have you had any interactions with The Salvation Army?
My wife graduated from Booth University College in Winnipeg with a degree in social work.
Over the years, I have performed at their chapel. My wife wanted to retire from teaching, but she wanted to get into social work. One morning, I was performing at Booth and my wife was with me. We didn’t even know there was a socialwork program at Booth. As I was setting up, a faculty member asked
Photo: Jason Johnson
“When I sing my songs, I’m actually letting you in on my personal prayer diary.”
STEVE BELL
Photo: Jason Johnson
if my wife wanted a tour. When the woman realized Nanci was interested in social work, she told her all about it. Within a few months, Nanci had enrolled.
What do you think of The Salvation Army?
Growing up, my dad was a prison chaplain at Manitoba’s Stony Mountain Institution and Salvation Army folk would come in for services or to help out, so I was constantly exposed to their work.
But my earliest recollection was as a little boy. My father was the pastor of a Baptist church in Drumheller, Alta. My parents were best friends with some Salvation Army pastors. I was intrigued by the uniforms and how different their church was to ours. I’m not putting down my church, but there really was no effort to address ongoing community needs. For the Army, though, that seemed to be the core of who they were. I was impressed by that.
Who are your musical influences?
If I had to choose one name, it’d be Bruce Cockburn. He’s the guy. I saw him in 1978 when I was 18. I grew up in a Baptist fundamentalist-lite culture from the Prairies where musicians had to give an altar call, had to mention very specific sins they warned against, had to quote
Scripture, things like that.
And here comes this guy who did none of that. He talked about social justice issues, which I didn’t know were the concern of a Christian. His scope of Christian concern just rocked my world.
Then there was his attention to detail and the beauty of his guitar playing. For most of us who grew up in youth groups, we played a couple of chords and sang. When I saw him, I thought, There’s a ministry in that. Excellence and artistry communicate something that words never will.
Where do you see yourself in a year?
In five years? In 10 years?
Well, that’s a really pertinent question for me now. This year, I’ll be an official senior, and so I’m starting to ask questions.
How do I take the work I’ve done, the songs God has given me, the ministry I’ve built, the social capital I have, and how do I walk that into this next stage of life? How do I be a prayerful, nonanxious presence, but also at the same time speak the truth and use the gifts God has given me to woo people to a more Christian way of living?
These are the questions I need to be thinking about in the next four or five years if I’m going to continue into my 70s, which I think I can do. There’s nothing in me that wants to retire!
Putting the Pieces Together
A SIMPLE REQUEST LED TO A LIFETIME OF SERVICE FOR MAJOR MARY MILLAR.
by Melissa Yue Wallace
“Idecided to become a Salvation Army pastor because I felt called to actively live out my faith by directly serving those in need, making a tangible difference in people’s lives,” declares Major Mary Millar of the Wiarton Community Church in Ontario.
“I knew the Army was where I was meant to be. It made sense of my life, and I’ve never lost that vision in 30 years.”
“Just Do Christmas”
In 1994, Major Mary was working as an image consultant, helping clients with makeup, wardrobe planning and photography in Kincardine, Ont. Her husband, Dwight, worked at Hydro One Ontario and the couple had three children: Kris, 14, Greg, 10, and Amanda, six.
That year, the Millars moved to Owen Sound, Ont., to be closer to Dwight’s work, and it wasn’t long
Helping Hand
Major Mary Millar advises a family at the Wiarton Community Church in Ontario
before the family began looking for a church home. Dwight suggested The Salvation Army Owen Sound Community Church, as he remembered having a positive experience at an Army ministry in Kirkland Lake, Ont., in his youth.
As they began forming connections and getting involved in various activities, they felt comfort and warmth with their new church family, so much so that Major Mary became a soldier, an official member of The Salvation Army, in May 1995, and her children followed in her footsteps.
Meanwhile, just north of Owen Sound, The Salvation Army in Wiarton needed people to serve.
“The Army had a 600-square-foot building on Main Street and limited funds,” Major Mary recalls. “As they neared Christmas, there wasn’t anyone willing to step in to help the community.”
In November 1994, a Salvation Army pastor asked her a question that would change everything:
“Mary, will you do Christmas?”
“At that point, I couldn’t have answered three A-B-C questions about The Salvation Army ... I knew nothing,” she says. “They had a $23,000 budget and a part-time position available.
“I agreed to ‘just do Christmas.’ ”
All these years later, Major Mary is still answering the call.
Picture Perfect
In her first testimony at The Salvation Army in Owen Sound, Major Mary shared that she felt God called her there because it was the kind of place that would have helped her brother, Charles Edward Maddock.
Charles had been working in Orillia, Ont., at an institution for people with developmental disabilities when he experienced a terrifying incident where a client attacked him, choking him until he passed out. Treatments, therapy and prescription drugs seemed to cause deeper darkness until, finally, Charles ended his own life.
“My family was in such trauma at the time, and I thought, If only The Salvation Army had been there for my brother in his time of need,” she says.
Welcome Friend
“It
is an incredible privilege to bring the light of the gospel of Jesus to those who are struggling with the darkness,” says Major Mary
Photos: Courtesy of Major Mary Millar
“But on New Year’s Day 1995, I felt like I was in front of a table with all kinds of puzzle pieces that made a picture, and they all fit together.”
Unexpected Blessings
In October 1997, Wiarton Community Church moved to a new location. The building sits between Charles and Edward streets— unexpectedly sharing her brother’s first and middle names.
“The other piece of the puzzle slipped into place in 2003, just before Dwight and I became lieutenants,” continues Major Mary. “We were sorting items in this big, 8,000-square-foot facility—and there was my brother’s Bible that he had been given when he was 19 years old in 1971.
“The bottom line is that the journey has not been easy, but God has bestowed so many blessings, above and beyond.”
A Matter of Trust
The surrounding community in the Bruce Peninsula is a thriving tourist destination in the summer, but in the winter, many individuals are unable to find work or support themselves due to rising costs.
Many find hope in services at The Salvation Army in Wiarton, which includes the Bruce Peninsula Community Food Bank, the Nawash Food Bank, community meals (called Table Manna) or other offerings, such as the community
garden, mentorship program, family services, free tax clinics, social activities, services for seniors, a children’s literacy program, Pathway of Hope case management, and Trades Start, a work experience program for youth to help them kickstart their careers in skilled trades.
“Our connection with the First Nations community began in 1995 and, initially, there was a lot of distrust of the Christian faith due to history,” says Major Mary.
Some of the first programs The Salvation Army launched in 1995 were the food bank and school lunches, as many in the community were showing signs of depression and didn’t have food to send with their children for lunch. “It is so inspiring to see some of the children who came into the food bank with their parents now with their own kids,” says Major Mary. “Many have a steady job, car and own their own home. They trust us and bring their kids to our programs.
“It is an incredible privilege to bring the light of the gospel of Jesus to those who are struggling with the darkness,” says Major Mary. “Whether that be from financial challenges, health concerns or relational struggles—to witness first-hand the transformative impact of compassion and support on individuals and families facing challenges—and to see them regain hope and stability through the services we provide.”
Eight Truths to a God-Blessed Life
A new series introduces Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount.
by Jeanette Levellie
Jesus preached. A lot. According to Matthew 9:35, “Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in the synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom.”
But in Jesus’ very first sermon, given on a hillside in Galilee and known as the Sermon on the Mount, He laid the foundation for His entire ministry by unpacking eight “Beatitudes,” a term that comes from a Latin word meaning “blessings.” Jesus declared God’s favour and kindness toward His faithful followers.
Character Study
The Son of God came to earth, along with His gift of salvation, to produce character in His followers, the type of character that will help us know God in a deeper way and reflect Him to others. Jesus also longs for us to know a personal God who gives good
gifts to His children (see James 1:17).
Even 2,000 years ago in the ancient Hebrew culture, Jesus’ teachings went against mainstream thinking. Yet every word He spoke is still relevant because the truths He gives are eternal. Jesus used mysterious phrases in that first sermon, such as “poor in spirit,” “hunger and thirst for righteousness” and “pure in heart.”
What do these unusual sayings mean? And why should we make them part of our lives?
This new series will explore the eight truths Jesus taught His followers to develop a God-blessed life, uncovering these jewels of wisdom and the life-changing journey Jesus offers us.
For a sneak peek into the teachings of Jesus on the Beatitudes-the blessings of God-see Matthew 5:1-12. And turn the page to read the first article.
Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit
In
the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus opens with a surprising way to gain
a huge reward.
by Jeanette Levellie
The Jews who sat on the hillside listening to Jesus teach were probably shocked. In what has come to be known as the Sermon on the Mount, this new rabbi showed His listeners the way to God’s heart, instead of laying down a list of rules. In the first sentence, Jesus promised that for those who are “poor in spirit,” God will bestow the entire kingdom of heaven (see Matthew 5:3). Wow. An entire kingdom—a heavenly one—will be ours if we’re
poor in spirit. But what did Jesus mean? And how can we develop this attitude?
“You’re God. I’m Not”
We generally associate the word “poor” to mean a lack of money. We fight against poverty, as we should. Any kind of physical or emotional lack puts us at a disadvantage. But that’s not the kind of poor Jesus meant.
The term “poor in spirit” means
Photo: Rick Short/Lightstock.com
God gives favour to those who have a humble heart, because they’re the ones who admit they need help. JEANETTE LEVELLIE
“humble.” Simply put, to have a humble heart means we realize how dependent we are on God. We acknowledge that God is the source of everything good in our lives. The moment we reach that place of total dependence on God, our hearts open for Him to give us “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17).
When I was little, my father said that his favourite Bible verse was, “God helps those who help themselves.” I later learned that “verse” isn’t even in the Bible. So, I’d like to change my father’s saying to, “God helps those who can’t help themselves—and will admit it.”
God gives favour to those who have a humble heart, because they’re the ones who admit they need help. They sincerely say, “You’re God. I’m not.”
Of course, we can’t humble ourselves without Jesus’ help. When we recognize this truth, it takes the pressure off us to earn our way into God’s good graces. We ask Jesus to show us how to surrender our hearts to Him. It’s the same kind of childlike faith we originally used when we first heard the good news about Jesus’ love and forgiveness— and admitted we couldn’t save ourselves.
The King and Us
But what’s in this “humble attitude” thing for me? How do I benefit? you might think.
I’m so glad you asked!
When Jesus says that God will give us His kingdom if we rely on Him, He’s speaking in spiritual terms. Although heaven is a real, tangible place where Christians will live forever with God, the kingdom of heaven is not a place. It’s our position of peace with God through Jesus. It’s the privilege of knowing God as our Father, friend and provider, not merely our king.
Because we are God’s children, we allow Him to be in charge of our lives. This is how we live in God’s kingdom and gain everything we need: peace of mind, provision, victory over sins and habits, healthy relationships and emotional well-being.
God’s very nature is to give. He loves to give. In a later teaching, Jesus told His followers, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32).
As we give our hearts to God in humility, He gives us His kingdom in return.
Not a bad trade.
Eating Healthy With Erin
WHIPPED FETA AND BEET APPETIZER
TIME 10 min MAKES 2 servings SERVE WITH grilled chicken or salmon
180 ml (¾ cup) feta cheese
120 ml (½ cup) 2% plain yogurt
1 garlic clove
15 ml (1 tbsp) fresh lemon juice
15 ml (1 tbsp) fresh dill
375 ml (1½ cups) pickled beets, sliced
30 ml (2 tbsp) pistachios (optional)
cracked black pepper drizzle of honey
1 French bread baguette
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE BOWL
TIME 5 min MAKES 2 servings SERVE WITH granola
250 ml (1 cup) frozen mango
250 ml (1 cup) frozen pineapple
180 ml (¾ cup) coconut milk
60 ml (¼ cup) water
3 ice cubes
60 ml (¼ cup) strawberries, sliced
30 ml (2 tbsp) shredded coconut
sliced mango for garnish
1. Whip feta, yogurt, garlic and lemon juice together until smooth.
2. Using the back of a spoon, spread the whipped feta on a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh dill.
3. Top with beets and roasted pistachios. Add black pepper and honey.
4. Slice baguette and arrange on a plate.
1. Blend together frozen mango, frozen pineapple, coconut milk, water and ice cubes.
2. Sprinkle sliced strawberries and shredded coconut on top of blended mixture and add sliced mango for garnish.
Recipe photos: Erin Stanley
QUICK QUIZ
1. In music, what are three or more notes played together called?
2. What is South America’s largest country?
3. What is the branch of medicine dealing with the heart called?
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by Kevin Frank
Word Search A Jaws-Dropping 50 Years
Photo: Courtesy of Universal Pictures
Uniting Hearts
Children in Usulután, El Salvador, come together for a vibrant outdoor activity, supported by The Salvation Army’s Brighter Futures Children’s Sponsorship Program. The Usulután church provides programming for children ages five to 14, including educational support, arts and crafts, physical education, dance and drama. By offering nutritious meals—often the only meal of the day for many—the program helps combat food insecurity while also reducing school dropout rates and the risk of gang recruitment by providing a safe, nurturing environment.
