Salvationist + Faith & Friends February 2021

Living Lent: More Than Just Self Denial

How to Care for Singles in Your Church

Candidates Connect: Officer Recruitment Reimagined

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

February 2021

Salvationist.ca

Spirit of Zambia

Partners in Mission campaign highlights vibrant corps life, education and community development

February 2021 • Volume 16, Number 2

DEPARTMENTS 5 Inbox 6 Frontlines 8 World Watch 15 Not Called?

If At First ...

by Ken Ramstead

20 Global Focus Nordic Adventures Interview with Majors Hannu and Gerry Lindholm

23 Corps Values A Lifelong Covenant Interview with Major Lillian Pelley

26 Cross Culture 27 People & Places

24

30 Salvation Stories For His Glory

by Peter Cheung

FEATURES 10 The Spirit of Zambia

COLUMNS

Sharing the love of Christ through word and deed.

by Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray

4 Editorial The Same Boat?

by Geoff Moulton

14 The Power of Education

9 Onward

From a refugee camp to Salvation Army sponsorship to shaping the future.

by Emmanuel K. Urey

Do You See What I See?

by Commissioner Floyd Tidd

16 Closer to God

24 Family Matters Living Lent

by Captain Bhreagh Rowe

25 Positive Reinforcements

Vivienne’s life changed forever at The Salvation Army’s Mitanda Home in Zambia.

by Kathy Nguyen

18 Road Map for Recruitment New four-point strategic plan developed to help identify and guide prospective candidates to ministry as officers.

by Major Jennifer Hale

Jesus Yes, Church Yes

by Major Rick Zelinsky

SALVATIONIST.CA IS MORE THAN JUST MAGAZINE ARTICLES! We serve as a hub for all THQ-related resources for the territory—from finance to women’s ministries to world missions. Take time today to visit Salvationist.ca to check out our latest sub-sites for leadership development, public affairs, Canadian Staff Band and Jackson’s Point Conference Centre.

Cover photos: Mark Yan

READ AND SHARE IT! Open Mouth ...

... INSERT FOOT P.5

Compassion in Action

ARMY HELPS ZAMBIA P.24

Why Assist the Army?

ASK DIETER P.8

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

faithandfriends.ca

FEBRUARY 2021

In This Together

19 Candidates Connect Candidates Fellowship has been reimagined to better help Salvationists explore God’s call to officership.

by Major Jennifer Hale

22 Single Minded

15

Five ways to include those who aren’t married.

by Captain Jaclyn Wynne

PLANNING A WEDDING IN A PANDEMIC. P.16

Salvationist February 2021 3

EDITORIAL

The Same Boat? “

W

e’re all in the same boat.”

It’s a cliché trotted out by many people in recent months as the COVID-19 pandemic has surged around the globe. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, we are all on the same choppy seas, but when it comes to size and resources, our boats range from luxury ocean liners to row boats with missing oars.

One of The Salvation Army’s strengths has always been our internationalism and, in particular, the annual Partners in Mission campaign. It highlights the resiliency of Salvation Army ministries around the world and their ability to do so much good, even in times of scarcity.

We are strongest, however, when we band together and support one another.

That’s where Partners in Mission comes in. Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray, director of international development, notes, “Although we highlight specific territories, the Partners in Mission funds raised are distributed through International Headquarters to territories based on need.” This system is designed to bring our “fleet” together to share material resources as God would have us do.

This issue of Salvationist focuses on the Army’s work in Zambia. From corps life to education to community development, the Zambia Territory is touching

Salvationist

is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Brian Peddle General Commissioner Floyd Tidd Territorial Commander Lt-Colonel John P. Murray Secretary for Communications Geoff Moulton Editor-in-Chief and Literary Secretary Giselle Randall Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Copy Editor and Production Co-ordinator (416-422-6112) Leigha Vegh Associate Editor and Staff Writer 4 February 2021 Salvationist

lives in profound ways (page 10). Kathy Nguyen recounts her trip to Mitanda Home for the Aged, which has been a refuge for Zambia’s vulnerable seniors for more than 70 years (page 16). And in Liberia, on the Ivory Coast of Africa, Dr. Emmanuel Urey testifies how he used his God-given talents to rise from a refugee camp through The Salvation Army’s Len Millar schools to be president of the Army’s Polytechnic (page 14).

Elsewhere in this issue, Major Rick Zelinsky, millennial project officer, challenges us to examine how we are making space for the next generation of leaders (page 25). Captain Jaclyn Wynne upends our traditional expectations of how to care for singles in the church (page 22).

And we spotlight Candidates Connect, a new framework and approach to officer recruitment (page 18).

What amazes me is that Partners in Mission is truly a partnership.

As Lt-Colonel Murray notes, “All territories, whether financially independent or grant-aided, participate in the Partners in Mission Self-Denial Campaign. Every Salvationist in the world is called upon to support the international work of The Salvation Army.” Some give out of an abundance, while others give what they can. But there is no limit on the generous spirit of

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

Member, The Canadian Christian Communicators Association. All Scripture references from the Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV) © 2011.

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

Salvationists.

Let’s show our partners this year how much we care. The territorial goal for Partners in Mission is $2.3 million. We can reach it. Don’t let COVID-19 stop you from giving generously. There may be stormy seas ahead, but with Christ as our captain we cannot fail.

GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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Mission

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INBOX

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

The Fourth Wave How is COVID-19 affecting those who are already marginalized?

BY MAJOR KAREN PUDDICOMBE

Photo: courtneyk/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Let’s Keep Talking I’m responding to Major Karen Puddicombe’s article about the impact of COVID-19 on those who are already marginalized (“The Fourth Wave,” November 2020). How can we better equip ourselves to best help those “affected” by COVID-19, even though they weren’t “infected,” for the coming future?

T

his year, as COVID-19 burst through the gates of our comfortable Canadian context, life drastically changed for all of us. Public health officials and the government strongly advised isolation, and we heeded the call to stay home and stay safe. The next few months weren’t easy for anyone.

We were separated from family, friends and church; expected to work and teach our children at the same time; faced unemployment and economic instability; and experienced housing and food insecurity. The complexity of living in a changed world filled us with questions and anxiety. The frenzy on social media often consumed us, enhancing the tendency to worry and panic over things we couldn’t change. All of this affected our mental well-being.

Think about how challenging the changes were for your little bubble. Think about how you coped, how you navigated your needs versus your wants. Think about how you chose to simplify life and care for your family in a time of crisis.

Now let’s pause and think about the marginalized in our society. As a Salvation

Captain Daniel Rowe

16 November 2020

Army officer who oversees community and family services, I was on the front line responding to the needs of our community, including those experiencing homelessness. There were many changes to protocols and safety measures, but my incredible staff and I did our best to serve and share the love of God. In the early weeks of our provincial lockdown, many of the people experiencing homelessness who came to us were unaware of the severity of the pandemic and did not have the right information to guide their daily choices. COVID-19 made life even harder for these individuals in many ways.

Social agencies closed, shelters minimized the number of beds available for an ever-growing population, and people who once let others crash on their couches worried about getting sick and shut their doors. Restaurants were only open for drive through. This was a problem for those who did not have a phone to preorder food or a vehicle. Without access to the internet, the ability to get help for mental-health challenges became even more complex.

In an article for The Conversation, an independent media website, researchers described the mental-health consequences of COVID-19 as the “fourth wave” of the pandemic, citing an Angus Reid study from April, which found that “50 percent of Canadians felt their mental health had worsened during the pandemic, indicating high levels of worry and anxiety.” God created us to be in relationship with one another, to be in community with one another, and months of isolation and physical distancing have taken a toll.

But as the researchers point out, this impact on mental health is even greater for those groups marginalized by social circumstances and stigma. They lack financial resources and the tools to stay connected on social media, and their social supports remain closed to the public. Marginalized groups are more likely to experience poor mental health and, in some cases, mental-health conditions. In addition, marginalized groups also have decreased access to the social and economic factors that are essential to recovery and positive mental health.

So, what can we do as an Army to enhance the mental well-being of those we accompany?

1. Meet in person. We need to create

safe opportunities to meet face to face (with proper health and safety protocols in place). People need to know that we are still here for them.

2. Ask the right questions. “How are

you holding up? How are you coping emotionally? How can we help you on this journey?”

3. Have mental-health professionals connected to your ministry unit.

Partner with local mental-health resources in your area or employ a professional counsellor to provide help and guidance to those in need.

4. Be the church. People don’t care

how much you know until they know how much you care. Walk with Jesus as he walks with those you meet from day to day. Live the truth of your faith and be the friend who seeks equality of service for all people.

Major Karen Puddicombe is the corps officer at Burlington Community Church, Ont., and executive director of community and family services.

Salvationist

Photo: Watercolor_Concept/stock.Adobe.com

do everything right, but if it rains too much or doesn’t rain at all, their efforts do not yield any fruit. Then they end up seeking government “welfare” to feed their families. In North America we have a famine of work. Many people are rā’eb. This is why it’s so important that we create work and take employment seriously.

Lost in Translation These five Hebrew words give us insight into poverty.

BY DION OXFORD

I

t has been said that if you ripped out all the pages in the Bible that have to do with poverty, you’d be left with a book hanging in shreds. About 2,000 passages deal with people who are poor. In the Old Testament, poverty is the second-most prominent theme. In the New Testament, one in every 17 verses is about the poor and, in the Gospels, it’s one in 10. Since the Bible is the Word of God, then it’s obvious that God cares deeply about issues of poverty and injustice.

But this emphasis loses something in the translation from the original biblical languages to English. In Hebrew, several words are used to describe people who are poor and how they ended up that way.

In English, we just have the word “poor,” which is somehow supposed to describe every person experiencing poverty. It doesn’t. Here are five Hebrew words that demonstrate what I mean.

1. ’āni. This is the most frequently used word for poverty in the Old Testament. It is used 80 times and refers to people whose poverty is 12 November 2020

caused by affliction and oppression. People who have experienced violence, been violated, sexually exploited or have PTSD for one reason or another fit this description.

These are people who have been victims of oppression, making them unable to function, leading to their poverty.

2. dal/dalal. These are people who are frail and weak. This word is used 62 times in the Old Testament. Those who are sick, infirm or have mentalhealth concerns fit this description.

Some of the poorest of the poor are the dal, yet they are the neediest people and we often leave them on the streets. (I hope you can already see major differences between ‘āni and dal and why it’s so important to respond to them differently.)

3. rā’eb. This is a word meaning hungry or famished. It is used 38 times in the Old Testament. It is an agricultural word meaning land that doesn’t yield anything—famine. People can

4. rûsh. This word describes those who are impoverished through dispossession. It is used 31 times in the Old Testament. People become rûsh when the government comes and takes their land. We can see the outcome of that all around us in Canada right now when we think of Indigenous people. The process of becoming rûsh is that you lose your stakeholding, becoming a non-person, and then you lose your voice. A Christian response, a biblical response to rûsh, therefore, is to speak on behalf of people until they get their voices back.

5. ‘ebyôn. This is a word used 61 times in the Old Testament, and it describes someone who is needy and dependent—a beggar. In many ways, welfare has created a dependency. We’ve invented the system that created this. We get angry when we see dependent people and try to create new rules. This is not a new problem, of course. The people of Israel became dependent on Pharaoh and wanted to run back to Egypt at the first sign of trouble in the desert, because they didn’t know how to be free. These are the people that we get most mad at, yet we are the ones who created dependence in the first place.

These words show us why we need to treat people as individuals. Each person or family struggling with poverty that we encounter is dealing with different issues. So, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t—and can’t—work. I hope this brief overview about the different causes of poverty can help us start to make a dent in this massive issue.

A New Perspective This short article by Dion Oxford (“Lost in Translation,” November 2020), about five Hebrew words that give us insight into poverty, opened my eyes and heart. Thank you.

Major Royal Senter

Bonnie Law

Dion Oxford has spent more than 25 years working among people experiencing homelessness in Toronto, most recently as the director of mission integration for Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports. He was the founding director of the Salvation Army Gateway, a shelter for men.

Salvationist

Dissenting Views The Blind Spot Darryn Oldford suggests there should be at least one non-Christian from the community on the board of churches, denominations or international organizations, to offer their opinion I and vote on issues (“The Blind Spot,” November 2020). This an intriguing idea. It would be breaking new ground from a corps ministries perspective, but it’s not an entirely foreign concept to The Salvation Army. Every social mission ministry unit has a community advisory council, a group of volunteers who provide the executive director with administrative advice relating to program, business and policy matters. The council assists the management in ensuring that the service is effectively and efficiently administered. These councils are often made up of people from all walks of life.

Most of the community councils that I have worked with reflected the demographics of the neighbourhood. It should come as no surprise that they weren’t all Christians. And yet they proved to be a valuable source of advice and connectivity to the community.

So, if it could work for our social mission centres, why not for our corps? Unless we are prepared to draw a line of distinction between corps and social centres (which many of us, including myself, are loathe to do). Our social centres have chaplains, worship services and Christian programming. Our corps centres often operate significant community programs, in addition to their congregational work. Is there really that big of a difference that we can’t at least be open to the idea before we shut it down? As Darryn points out, it could be a real boon to have an external viewpoint regarding the community and individuals we are trying to reach.

VIEWPOINT

Welcoming the dissenting voice.

Photo: SIphotography/iStock via Getty Images Plus

BY DARRYN OLDFORD

’ve noticed a familiar pattern when it comes to advertising. A company, whether a large multinational firm or a small store, puts out a blatantly problematic ad—racist, sexist or just completely tone-deaf to real-world issues—and is shocked when people have a problem with it. I like to give people the benefit of the doubt and believe that, in most cases, the shock is genuine and not itself a marketing stunt. I think workplace culture is to blame for most of these missteps in two key ways.

While advertising is a multi-billiondollar industry, it has real people at the centre, like all businesses. The first problem is having the same kinds of people, with similar beliefs, making decisions without outside input. The second is having a top-down approach to decisionmaking that makes it impossible to collaborate or point out problems, since “the boss has the final say.”

While having a team with diverse backgrounds who are empowered to voice their ideas is important for television advertisements, it is even more essential for churches. I have a rather controversial opinion regarding church leadership, so prepare yourself.

In my view, whether it’s a local church, a national denomination or an international organization, there should be at least one non-Christian from the community on the board to offer their opinion and vote on issues. This person could be an atheist or someone from another faith.

“

Having someone at the table who sees the world from a different perspective is a useful tool.

”

Here’s my reasoning. If church leadership is solely comprised of Christians, who share the same beliefs and language, it can create an echo chamber where everyone agrees on how things should run, and we arrive at the same conclusions. This is especially true when everyone making the decisions are ordained members of the clergy.

While not all Christians are the same, and we can have passionate differences, those who attend church regularly enough to be invited into decision-making can easily fall into similar categories.

During my time as a teacher, one thing that became clear is that if you don’t have the ability to explain a concept to someone who knows nothing about the subject, then you don’t fully grasp it yourself. Having someone at the table who sees the world from a different perspective is a useful tool to make sure you’re making the right decisions for the right reasons.

While I believe that having a variety of opinions is important to make the right decision, I loathe the idea of a devil’s advocate. The devil has no need for an advocate.

There are people in this world who take joy in being obstinate; if the sky is blue, they will argue it is purple with beige polka dots.

In a meeting, this type of person is good for nothing more than raising everyone’s blood pressure.

It’s important, then, to have people in leadership who have differing opinions, but share the goal of building something great, rather than tearing everything down.

While expertise can and should be elevated in these conversations—for example, the person running the food bank should have the most say about food bank-related issues—it’s up to everyone else to listen and weigh in to expose blind spots and strengthen ministry.

One of my favourite passages of Scripture compares the church to the human body, and the importance of respecting each and every one of us as part of the church body: “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12:27).

True Christian leadership lifts up the voices of those on the margins of making decisions, recognizing that everyone has something to contribute. People who are naturally quiet and reserved may still have something important to say that the church needs to hear. It’s only by welcoming voices that are often overlooked that we can make our churches, and lives, better.

Darryn Oldford is a senior soldier in Toronto.

Salvationist

Major Juan Burry

While I agree that it is important to listen to a variety of voices, even, if not especially, to dissenting voices, spiritual leadership can only be provided by “spiritual” people. By that I mean people walking in and filled with the Holy Spirit. Leadership requires followers and no one can lead another person in a direction they are not heading themselves.

Therefore, having an atheist or person of another faith on a church leadership team (church board, corps council, whatever you may call it) is to have a person who is not on God’s narrow road. Such a person cannot direct anyone or anything to God because they do not know God or his ways and will. Their goals and direction will always be worldly at best. By placing such a person into a position of leadership, we validate and legitimize their unbelief. Such people cannot be anything but false teachers and tolerance of such things in church leadership was one of the recurring condemnations in Christ’s message to the seven churches in Revelation.

Let everyone come to our corps (church); let them speak; let them help. Only let the spiritually qualified lead.

November 2020

25

I’m curious to know if any of our corps have leadership teams like the one the author promotes. Neither the corps council nor senior pastoral care council are designed to include atheists, since soldiership is required for membership. However, ensuring differences of opinion on leadership teams is healthy and contributes to good decision-making for the very reasons the author addresses: seeing blind spots, etc. In her book, Pursuing God’s Will Together, Ruth Haley Barton encourages teams to include members with differing opinions as good strategy and good stewardship.

Major Peter van Duinen

Learning to Listen I was interested to hear about the new “Let’s Talk” resource, designed to help Let’s Talk Salvationists engage difficult topics in ways that bring people together I (“Let’s Talk,” November 2020). I would love to take part in these discussions or at least to receive information about their topics. I think that these words capture the essence of our lives and a great reminder for all of us: Jesus listened. Listening helped him understand who people were and where they had come from. Walking a mile in their shoes didn’t separate Jesus from people, it deepened relationships.

A new resource will help Salvationists learn to engage difficult topics in ways that bring us together.

BY AIMEE PATTERSON

’ve often heard it said that we live in a society that talks about sex a lot— perhaps too much—and that the church doesn’t talk about sex enough.

The Salvation Army has taken this statement seriously.

You may recall the words of General André Cox (Rtd), then the international leader of The Salvation Army, in a Salvationist interview: “We need a greater ability to simply listen to people’s experience, to walk in their shoes and understand their realities before we’re swift to condemn. I think our understanding on the whole subject of sexuality is growing. We realize that it’s a very complex topic, and we shouldn’t just weigh in with absolutes, but be willing to listen and dialogue.”

A Bit of Background on “Let’s Talk” So, in 2015, General Cox called on the International Moral and Social Issues Council, the International Theological Council and the International Social Justice Commission to provide resources for Salvationists around the world to address issues of sexuality and sexual relationships. Their first task was to develop topical materials for conversations on sexuality. The result is a series called “Let’s Talk.” This effort has since been boosted by the appointing of Lt-Colonel Julie Forrest as the international liaison officer for dialogue on human sexuality.

“Let’s Talk” resources adapt a conver14 November 2020

sation method called faith-based facilitation (FBF) that The Salvation Army has used internationally in versatile ways, such as in community development, social work, evangelism and administrative decisions. The aim of FBF conversations is to engage people in exploring and responding to issues together in the light of Christian faith. As the title of the 2010 FBF guidebook says, it can help “build deeper relationships.”

After endorsing the use of the “Let’s Talk” series in the Canada and Bermuda Territory, territorial leadership called on the members of the social issues committee to become trained facilitators, and to promote conversations at all levels and settings. To date, there are about 30 people in the territory trained to facilitate conversations on divorce and remarriage, married life, partner abuse, pornography, same-sex relationships, sex outside of marriage and singleness.

What Happens at a “Let’s Talk” Conversation?

Ideally, the five-step conversation is held by a group small enough that each participant may contribute and large enough that several different experiences and perspectives are represented. First, to get everyone on the same page, we identify the topic under discussion. For instance, if the topic is sex outside of marriage, are we talking about cohabitation? Marital infidelity?

Casual sex? The second step calls us to describe and analyze the topic. Here we move beneath the surface to develop a comprehensive account of the topic based on the information we bring to the table.

In the third step of reflection and evaluation, the conversation gets more personal, perhaps even more sensitive.

We may be wrestling with difficult questions. Perhaps differences of perspective have been voiced. Together, we engage in prayer and reading Scripture, listening for what God’s Spirit might be saying to us. We may have a “kairos experience,” a sense that this is a special moment, “God’s time,” when we gain insight on what it means to live as Jesus would have us live. While the third step is often seen as a moment ripe for kairos, the diagram places kairos in the centre, reminding us of God’s continuous presence and the importance of integrating belief and action at all times.

Next, we decide and plan. It’s a dynamic step, and outcomes depend both on the topic and the group engaged. The final step, act, takes place following the conversation in response to our decision(s).

An action may be to change a practice or behaviour. It may be to set up another conversation on a different topic or to address the same topic at a deeper level.

Will this Lead to Official Changes for The Salvation Army?

There’s no avoiding the fact that sexuality and sexual relationships have become polarizing. “Let’s Talk” conversations do not signal official changes. Rather, they are designed, in part, to address division and help Salvationists build capacity to engage each other in ways that bring us together. When I am part of a “Let’s Talk” conversation, I am reminded of how Jesus responded to those who approached him. Jesus listened. Listening helped him understand who they were and where they had come from. Walking a mile in their shoes didn’t separate Jesus from people; it deepened relationships.

It’s my hope that, instead of walking away from each other, we learn to live together in gracious love, accepting that it’s possible for faithful Christians to come to different conclusions.

Interested in a “Let’s Talk” conversation? The Ethics Centre can provide more information.

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

Salvationist

Monica Klein-Nouri

Lt Connie Cristall and her husband, Cameron

The Invitation How the COVID-19 pandemic opened a door to community connections in Calgary.

BY JAMES WATSON

O

n a warm evening this past summer, Lieutenant Connie Cristall was walking her dog in her Calgary neighbourhood when someone stopped to say hello. An ordinary moment on the surface, but one with deeper significance, because it marked a turning point in her relationship with the community.

Lieutenant Cristall moved to Calgary three years ago, appointed as a corps planter in response to the creative and thriving ministry at The Salvation Army’s Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre, located in the diverse Shaganappi area. The centre has nurtured a friendly atmosphere where spiritual conversations are welcome.

When she moved into the neighbourhood, Lieutenant Cristall began trying to establish community connections— shopping, frequenting local coffee shops, visiting people. She partnered with the existing Messy Church and Bible studies at the centre and worked with the staff to develop a leadership team, composed of a chaplain, program staff, neighbours and people who have been participants

in the centre’s programs.

As the team explored opportunities for sharing faith and building community, their diversity of spiritual journeys helped establish a vision and direction for the new corps.

In 2018, Lieutenant Cristall and the leadership team piloted a “cafechurch” model (see cafechurchnetwork.wordpress.com). The multi-purpose space at the centre is bright and comfortable, an ideal space for table group discussions. As life issues, such as internet safety or parenting, started conversation around the tables, someone would share a personal story and then biblical wisdom was explored. This environment encouraged people to come out of their shells. Newcomers moved from being shy visitors to asking to share their story with the group.

When the COVID-19 pandemic began and physical distancing came into effect, it was a challenge to find opportunities to develop relationships while adapting to new public health realities. They were able to use videoconference “room” func-

tions to continue their table discussions.

“Even though we’re not meeting in person, we still have that connection,” says Noshelle Armogan, a senior soldier who started attending through the cafechurch.

“That beautiful warmth through the Zoom calls … who would have thought?”

A few people have visited the new corps on Zoom without turning on their camera, but if something connects for them, they enter the discussion.

Another way Lieutenant Cristall is involved in the neighbourhood is through the Shaganappi Community Association, where she’s part of a committee studying housing issues. Her connections with the association gave her insight into new local developments and prompted conversations with people who also care deeply about the neighbourhood.

When pandemic health concerns emerged in the spring, the community association asked her to share her perspective on the mental-health issues affecting the community, alongside an expert in the field. Lieutenant Cristall was introduced at the start of the webinar as the pastor of the new Salvation Army church in the Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre.

This invitation from the community association was a divine moment. The webinar raised awareness of her care for the neighbourhood and opened conversations with neighbours—including a friendly chat while walking her dog, with someone who attended the webinar.

This was a welcome development, and COVID-19 is partly responsible. Reflecting on her experience over the past three years, Lieutenant Cristall shares, “I had a hard time becoming known in the Shaganappi community. The pandemic opened a door for me. Really, God opened the door, and I was given an invitation to walk in.”

James Watson is the corps health and planting consultant for the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Lt Cristall leads a virtual service during the pandemic

Salvationist

November 2020

15

Community Connections I’m writing in response to an article about how the COVID-19 pandemic opened a door to community connections in Calgary (“The Invitation,” November 2020). I was happy to be able to share a year of that with you, Lieutenant Connie. Many blessings as you continue to be the light of Christ in your neighbourhood.

Major Colleen Winter

Salvationist February 2021 5

FRONTLINES

Salvation Army Ches Penney Centre Celebrates Grand Opening

A

socially distanced livestream ceremony packed with notable speakers from The Salvation Army and Canadian government, as well as other special guests, marked the opening of The Salvation Army Ches Penney Centre of Hope in St. John’s, N.L., in December.

“This centre will be like a beacon in the community to let everyone know that we’re here, to give people a place to call home, to give hope today and every day to those who need it most,” said Major Rene Loveless, divisional secretary for public relations and development, Newfoundland and Labrador Division, in his opening remarks.

The $15.3-million project was made possible by partnerships with federal, provincial and municipal governments, Fortis Inc. and the Rotary Club of St. John’s North West.

“Ches Penney knew what it was like to be on the edge of survival,” said Gayle Penney about her father. “What he found in The Salvation Army was connection, understanding, guidance, forgiveness and an identity with God.” The ceremony ended with a dedication as Lt-Colonel Eddie Vincent, divisional commander, Newfoundland and Labrador Division, presented the centre’s ceremonial plaque and read a letter of congratulations from Commissioner Floyd Tidd, territorial commander, who was unable to attend the event due to public health restrictions.

“It is my pleasure, on behalf of the territorial commander, to officially declare Ches Penney Centre of Hope open for the glory of God and the service of his people,” said Lt-Colonel

Vincent.

The new facility will enable the Army to provide 10 times more food to people in need, 20 new affordable supportive housing units, larger classrooms for programs, pastoral counselling, chaplaincy and spiritual care, as well as healthcare services—all under one roof.

Lt-Col Eddie Vincent marks the official opening of the Ches Penney Centre of Hope

Prime Minister Meets Virtually With Faith Leaders

I

n December, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met virtually with faith leaders from the Canadian Council of Churches (CCC), the Canadian Interfaith Conversation and the Canadian Multifaith Federation, including Commissioner Floyd Tidd, territorial commander of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda.

It was an opportunity to acknowledge that, when confronting the challenges and pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, faith leaders and communities have played an important role in fostering hope and resilience across Canada.

Of The Salvation Army, the prime minister said, “In the minds of so many Canadians … faith and service is embodied so magnificently by The Salvation Army. Thank you for leading the way on providing solace and support to so many. Keep up what you are doing and know that we will be there as best we can to support the incredible work that you do.”

In other ecumenical news, The Salvation Army participated, as a member of the Canadian Council of Churches, in a livestream seminar in November with leading academic Dr. Afua Cooper, with responses from church leaders on recognition, justice and development for Peoples of African Descent in Canadian churches. The Army co-sponsored the event, with more than a dozen Salvationists in attendance.

In addition, Salvationist Estee Lau represented the Army in a 6 February 2021 Salvationist

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks to faith leaders virtually

CCC consultation with representatives of Canadian churches,

Canadian pastors of Chinese descent and leading Christian human rights activists in Hong Kong. For more information on the work of the CCC, visit councilofchurches.ca.

FRONTLINES

Salvationists Spread Cheer in Ottawa

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hen COVID-19 first put Ottawa residents in lockdown in March 2020, Laurie Hamilton-Linklater and her husband, Geoffrey Linklater, Salvationists at Ottawa Citadel, built a two-sided lawn sign to post encouraging messages for their community. They also put up inflatable Christmas characters, a bear and a reindeer, to bring cheer. Cars slowed down to have a look, joggers stopped, and parents and children gathered around to enjoy the display. After an overwhelmingly positive response, the couple is continuing their lawn ministry and are showing no signs of stopping.

After the tragedy in Nova Scotia where a gunman claimed many lives in April 2020, the sign asked the community to pray for Nova Scotians. And last Easter, when churches were closed due to the pandemic, they built a large wooden cross with a purple shroud for Good Friday and a white one for Easter Sunday.

With the national call to support front-line workers, every Sunday, the Linklaters, with members of the Ottawa Citadel Band joining occasionally, played O Canada and hymns on their porch each week on piano and cornet while flying a large Canadian flag in the background. For Remembrance Day in November, they created a large display with poppies, a cross and other commemorative markers for the occasion.

The band played a short program of music, and readings of remembrance were shared with the community.

While the messages on the signs vary from humorous, to celebratory, to those of condolence, uplifting the community is at the heart of them all. “Throughout these past months we have been blessed to share hope and optimism with those around us,” says Hamilton-Linklater. “This pandemic has brought our community closer together. It’s what we as Christians should be doing at every opportunity and not just during challenging times.”

The Broadbent family from Montreal won first place in the best-dressed contest for the 2020 Santa Shuffle

Salvation Army Celebrates Santa Shuffle Virtually

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Geoffrey Linklater stands by the sign used to share messages of hope with his community

elebrating 30 years, the Santa Shuffle was held online for the first time ever across 35 cities in December because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with the Running Room, thousands of participants across Canada ran a five-kilometre or walked a one-kilometre race from December 5-12. Opening and closing ceremonies were held on The Salvation Army in Canada’s Facebook page. When participants registered, they received a customizable event bib where they could write why they joined the Santa Shuffle. Also included with registration was a shirt and medal with the slogan “Coming together virtually to shuffle because everyone needs an army” to recognize the impact of the pandemic.

The event featured top runners’ contests as well as bestdressed contests with group, individual and pet categories.

All proceeds from the event will be used to fund Salvation Army programs across the territory.

“Although aspects of our event changed, our commitment to helping our vulnerable neighbours at Christmas and beyond remains as strong as ever,” says June Li, national race director.

Salvationist February 2021 7

WORLD WATCH

Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at Windsor Castle

A Royal Thank You

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er Majesty Queen Elizabeth II thanked The Salvation Army for its front-line work during the pandemic, with other members of the Royal Family by her side, at a charity event held at Windsor Castle in December.

The Queen was accompanied by Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, The Earl and Countess of Wessex and The Princess Royal. The event was organized as a thank you to charities and essential workers for their help during the pandemic and over Christmas. A Salvation Army band played a selection of carols for Her Majesty at the event, which was held in the grounds of Windsor Castle, just to the west of London, England.

The leaders of The Salvation Army’s United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill, spoke to Her Majesty about the movement’s work supporting vulnerable people in communities.

“It was an honour to meet Her Majesty on behalf of The Salvation Army and as a representative of all voluntary organizations who have done so much incredible service throughout the pandemic,” said Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, speaking of the occasion. “I am greatly heartened that The Salvation Army’s support for rough sleepers, survivors of human trafficking, struggling families and isolated older people throughout this very difficult year has been recognized.”

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Salvation Army Releases Positional Statement on Persons With Disabilities

s people around the world celebrated the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December, The Salvation Army released a positional statement that clearly outlines the value it places on people of all ages who have disabilities.

The Salvation Army’s international mission statement asserts that it will “meet human needs ... without discrimination,” a fact recognized through the publication of an International Positional Statement (IPS) on Disabilities, approved by General Brian Peddle.

The IPS on Disabilities states: “All people are made in the image of God and are of equal intrinsic value. Thus, The Salvation Army celebrates difference and seeks to treat all people with dignity and respect.”

Recognizing that many people around the world experience discrimination due to disabilities, from stigma or negative attitudes to deeply ingrained and systemic exclusion, the statement adds: “We know less of who God is and how God appears in the world when people with disabilities are excluded. Inclusion is beneficial for everyone. Diversity within our communities and congregations strengthens us and shapes our mission and ministry. The aim of all Salvationist practice is to ensure that we are a church that makes the embodied gospel accessible for all.”

Blind students read Braille textbooks in Kalimpong, India

Deadly Attack on Salvation Army Outpost Claims Lives of Four Members

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Four Salvation Army members were killed at the Lewono Lembantongoa Outpost, in the region highlighted here

8 February 2021 Salvationist

n attack on the Salvation Army Lewono Lembantongoa Outpost, Indonesia, claimed the lives of four members in November. The Army carried out work at the outpost in the hopes that a society or corps would eventually develop there.

During the attack, the Army’s building was burned down along with the homes of six members. Four members of the outpost were killed.

In a press statement released across Indonesia, The Salvation Army invited all churches and religious associations, as well as community members, to support each other vigilantly and to enhance

security through strong communication networks across the villages of the area.

Colonel Yusak Tampai, territorial commander, Indonesia Territory, urged Salvationists in the region to “remain calm but alert and careful, spreading a strong message of hope and uniting in prayer to strengthen each other.”

Noting that The Salvation Army serves in 131 countries and that the world continues to face disturbing levels of violence, General Brian Peddle denounced any such acts. “Throughout all aspects of Salvation Army ministry and influence we work for peace,” he said.

ONWARD

Do You See What I See? May God open our eyes to the possibilities of change and hope.

BY COMMISSIONER FLOYD TIDD

Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd meet with Salvationists in the Bangladesh Cmd

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year ago, my wife, Tracey, and I travelled to Bangladesh, one of Canada and Bermuda’s Partners in Mission territories. We had just packed away the Christmas decorations and playlists, but as we shared with territorial leaders and officers, soldiers and employees of the Bangladesh Command, a Christmas carol emerged as a soundtrack for our time there. The words echoed in my mind and heart: “Do you hear what I hear? Do you see what I see?” My eyes and ears were opened in new ways to the work God was accomplishing in and through The Salvation Army in Bangladesh. I am always amazed to see fellow Salvationists in our partner territories innovating to meet the opportunities of their ever-changing contexts.

As we gathered at the holiness meeting on Friday—the “holy day” in Bangladesh—we shared with officers, soldiers and community members in songs and Scripture. Many curious onlookers were also welcomed and heard the message of the transforming love of Jesus.

The next day, we met with women in a workshop setting as they learned new skills that provided meaningful employ-

ment. Goods produced in this workshop are sold around The Salvation Army world under the “Others” brand. Later, we were invited to meet with another group of women who, with the support of the Army, had established their own successful business ventures, changing the trajectory of their families’ lives.

Do you hear what I was hearing? The story can change! For many connecting with The Salvation Army, their story was being dramatically altered as the message of Jesus was heard and lived out alongside one another in community. Community that worshipped together. Community that worked together to build a stronger, healthier future for everyone.

The voices of children filled the air as we stepped out of the car at the Armyoperated school, where children from the neighbourhood and resident blind children shared in integrated classrooms.

The sighted and the blind, studying together. Together, they were learning much more than just the curriculum contained in the books on their basic wooden desks.

One young boy grabbed our hands and led us to see his room. He had just

arrived a few days before our visit. He was now joining his brother, who had been studying for a couple of years as a resident at the school. Together, they shared a room with two other students.

As this blind boy led us, he wanted us to see what he could see. Together, they showed me what my seeing eyes failed to recognize.

Do you see what I was seeing? A place of belonging for everyone, learning together and learning from one another.

Eyes that could not see were seeing more than they ever had seen before. They saw themselves included not only in the present school setting but in a future lived integrated in the community. At the same time, my eyes that could see were opened to potential and promise fulfilled. Through the message of Jesus and a willingness to build strength and capacity together, communities are being transformed one young life at a time.

We approach this year’s Partners in Mission campaign having recently articulated a new territorial vision statement. Looking at Partners in Mission through that lens, I see the opportunity for us to live out our vision well beyond our territorial boundaries. The Canada and Bermuda Territory is “an innovative partner, sharing hope wherever there is hardship, building communities that are just and know the love of Jesus.”

In Bangladesh, as well as in other Partners in Mission territories around the globe, we share in the opportunity to bring hope in difficult circumstances.

With eyes of faith opened wide, let us see what God sees and partner with him and fellow Salvationists. May we see “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,” achieved according to God’s power at work in and through his international Army (see Ephesians 3:20).

This year, let each of us strengthen our commitment to support Partners in Mission. Your support is needed now more than ever before. Thank you for your sacrificial giving.

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

Salvationist February 2021 9

The Spirit of Zambia Sharing the love of Christ through word and deed.

Photos: Mark Yan

BY LT-COLONEL BRENDA MURRAY

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o say that Zambia is a magnificent country with beautiful people is an understatement. From the moment you arrive at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in the capital city of Lusaka, you feel the warmth, welcome and acceptance of the people.

“One Zambia, One Nation,” which promotes common beliefs, actions and values, is the motto of this landlocked country in south-central Africa.

As you travel across Zambia, you are exposed to a variation in topography: flat lands and hills, lakes, rivers and, of course, the breathtaking Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall—once referred to as “the smoke that thunders.”

10 February 2021 Salvationist

As you feel the mist of the falls, hear the almost-deafening roar and see the beautiful rainbow, you can’t help but be in awe of God’s creation.

It is within this context that The Salvation Army operates in Zambia, bringing the love of Christ in practical application with “Heart to God and Hand to Man.” With a population of 15.9 million people, The Salvation Army is called to holistically serve individuals who find themselves on the margins for one reason or another, offering a kind word, a meal, housing, health or education—each practical response motivated by the love of Christ.

It has been said that “a picture is

 Victoria Falls, on the Zambezi River in Zambia, is the largest waterfall in the world.

A double rainbow reminds us of God’s promise to each of us.

worth a thousand words,” so it is my hope that as you review this photo essay, you will be inspired and encouraged to support the Partners in Mission SelfDenial Campaign, and come away with a greater understanding of the broad scope of ministries in Zambia. The following photos capture some of the highlights from our visit in February 2020.

Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray is the director of international development.

 Excitement is mounting at the Matero Corps in Lusaka.

“We are overcomers,” says Major Elizabeth Kilai, corps officer, in an impassioned sermon based on 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. The corps is putting this “overcomer” faith in action as they raise funds locally to build a larger hall to accommodate new members and a greater vision for this community. With strong and dedicated leadership, corps life will continue to grow, and the gospel will be shared with many more people.

 “I know that Jesus is my Saviour from sin. I have asked him to forgive my sins, and I will trust him to keep me good. By his help, I will be his loving and obedient child, and will help others to follow him.”—Junior Soldier Promise This promise unites more than 411,287 junior soldiers around the world, including 8,647 that live in Zambia.

Joshua (left) and Chipo are junior soldiers at the Livingstone Corps. When asked what their favourite part about being junior soldiers is, they both had the same answer: They love to learn how to read the Bible; they love learning how to pray; and they love learning about The Salvation Army. With bright and committed junior soldiers, the future of The Salvation Army in Zambia is bright.

 At the Chelstone Community School in Lusaka, the staff are dedicated to providing a quality education, and the students are just as committed. With heavy downpours during the rainy season, many of the students wear oversized rainboots up to their knees, as the water can sometimes reach over their ankles. Despite the rain, the students kept smiling.

These children embody the spirit of Zambia.

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 Kenneth Sinakaimbi cares deeply for his students and is one of 39 teachers at Chikankata Secondary School. When you speak with Kenneth, you quickly sense his enthusiasm, passion and love for God. As a mission school, the academics incorporate spiritual learning, which is shown by the practice of starting each morning with a devotion.

 When Christine, a senior and the vice-headgirl at The Salvation Army’s Chikankata Secondary School, was asked if she liked attending the school, she responded, “I don’t like it—I love it!” Her dream is to become a lawyer, and The Salvation Army is helping her achieve that dream by providing a quality education.

The motto for the school is “Light and Progress,” which is evident in speaking with the students. They are motivated and determined, and there is no doubt that they will leave the care of The Salvation Army as shining lights to their communities.

 Nachoka Mangani is a third-year student at The Salvation Army’s Chikankata College of Biomedical Sciences, one of the leading scientific colleges in Zambia. She hopes to become a microbiologist and earn her master’s degree or a doctorate.

Zambia currently faces a shortage in healthcare workers. With more than 250 students enrolled and a 100-percent graduation rate for the past three years, this school continues to produce successful biomedical technologists and scientists and plays a major role in alleviating this shortage.

12 February 2021 Salvationist

 “The first essential component of social justice is adequate food for all mankind. Food is the moral right of all who are born into this world.”—Norman Borlaug, Nobel laureate Did you know that The Salvation Army runs a farm in the Copperbelt district of Zambia?

Lieutenant Herbert Hakatombo is the business officer at The Salvation Army’s Ndola Farm, where he and his wife, Lieutenant Clara, live and serve. Rooted in Christian principles, the farm employs community members and trains them in farming techniques. The farmers themselves then practise their skills at home and, in doing so, can provide food for their families. The harvested produce and livestock from the farm support local families and generate income for the territory.

 Due to a project funded by the Switzerland Territory and supported by the Canada and Bermuda Territory, children and staff at the Nega Nega school now have a water tank and a functioning handwash station.

 “Is not wisdom found among the aged?

Does not long life bring understanding?”

—Job 12:12 The Army’s motto, “Heart to God and Hand to Man,” is lived out at The Salvation Army Mitanda Home for the Aged. Under the leadership of Lt-Colonel Frazer Chalwe, the home provides holistic care for seniors in Ndola, Zambia. Many of the residents have been abandoned by their families and have no one else to turn to. The Salvation Army provides care and support for many of these residents until their last breath, keeping attentive watch in their final days.

These beautiful treasures become part of the Salvation Army family.

Salvationist February 2021 13

The Power of Education From a refugee camp to Salvation Army sponsorship to shaping the future.

BY EMMANUEL K. UREY Emmanuel Urey (centre) is joined by Comr Birgitte Brekke-Clifton, international secretary for program resources, to officially open The Salvation Army Polytechnic in Monrovia, Liberia

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was 13 when I started my primary education at a refugee camp in Guinea, West Africa. My father and mother did not have formal education and I was just two years old when my mother passed away. Liberia was in the middle of a civil war, and I escaped rebel forces trying to conscript me as a child soldier three times before fleeing to Guinea in 1994.

When the civil war ended in 1997, I returned to Liberia and lived in Gbarnga.

That’s where I was introduced to The Salvation Army, when someone invited me to the Gbarnga Outpost. I joined the choir and was soon involved in other church activities. It’s also where I received a full scholarship to attend The Salvation Army’s Len Millar Junior and Senior High School in Monrovia, the capital of Liberia, one of the leading secondary schools in the country.

In 2005, I graduated as valedictorian and student council president, and then enrolled at Cuttington University, where I graduated in three years instead of four. I continued with graduate school and obtained a master’s degree in public health. My high school education, bachelor’s degree and post-graduate degrees were all sponsored by The Salvation Army.

From 2009-2010, I served as program assistant at The Salvation Army Polytechnic (T-SAP), when the institution was a vocational school. In 2011, I received a U.S.-government-funded scholarship to 14 February 2021 Salvationist

pursue a second master’s degree in environmental science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Additional graduate student funding enabled me to complete my doctorate in May 2018.

After graduation, I returned to Liberia and volunteered as president of T-SAP. The school was badly affected by the Ebola epidemic in 2014, which caused it to close.

But in 2017, our long-awaited accreditation was granted.

Along with two vice-presidents, I worked to partially renovate the main building and recruit academic deans, staff and faculty. In less than two months, we recruited more than 300 students.

Commissioner Birgitte Brekke-Clifton, international secretary for program resources, officially opened the college in November 2018. One year later, the first 33 students from the technical and vocational education department graduated.

Education with Integrity On August 17, 2019, a crowd gathered at the Monrovia Christian Fellowship Centre, smiling and chatting, singing and dancing.

These were the parents and loved ones who had gathered to support their children as they graduated from The Salvation Army’s Len Millar School. I joined the procession and we marched to the front and took our seats. My seat was special. It was reserved for the guest speaker.

In my speech, I charged the gradu-

ates to have “education with integrity.” I coined this phrase as a motto for T-SAP. After defining integrity and giving several examples, I cautioned the class of 2019 that it is difficult to go against the tide of a society that scorns integrity—it’s easier to go with the flow of lawlessness and corruption. But we are not called to mediocrity—we are called to fear God and serve humanity. I emphasized that it was worth standing for integrity because that is the key to changing Liberia and making it a great nation.

Being selected as the guest speaker for the Len Millar graduation was an honour, but not a coincidence. I believe it was designed by God and implemented by the goodwill of people who denied themselves in order to provide education for the least among us.

Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world.” I have seen first-hand the impact of this in my life. I could go on, listing my humanitarian work with One Life Liberia, Inc., a non-profit organization I established while in Wisconsin to build schools in remote villages in Liberia; my work with Landesa, where I played a pivotal role in the passage of landmark land-rights legislation that impacts the lives of some three million rural Liberians; or my efforts to help those struggling with addiction on the street corners of Monrovia.

As we begin 2021, I like to remind people, especially young people, that nothing is impossible with God as long as we are willing to work hard and serve him.

I encourage you to go for your highest dream. Mine was to obtain a doctorate and use that to serve humanity. Do not worry about how you will get there but trust in God. He will pour people and institutions into your life that will help create the pathway to achieving your dreams.

Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey is the president of The Salvation Army Polytechnic in Liberia.

NOT CALLED?

If At First …

It took a couple of attempts for Tim and Kerrin Fraser to pursue officership, but they succeeded.

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

Cdts Tim and Kerrin Fraser, with their children, Jordan and Emily

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he call to officership was not an “a-ha” moment for Tim and Kerrin Fraser.

“God allowed the seed to grow,” says Kerrin. “It took years, but he allowed the flower to slowly bloom in its own time.”

Called, Not Called “I’ve always been a part of The Salvation Army in some way or another,” says Tim. “I was born into the Army, my parents are officers, and as soon as I was able to become a soldier, I did, at the age of 14.”

Tim admits he wasn’t quite sure he knew what he was doing. “At that point, I only knew wearing the uniform was more than that. It meant something greater.”

A couple of years later, Tim’s corps officer was farewelling.

“The next time I see you,” the officer told him, “you’ll be wearing red,” referring to the colour of epaulettes that he believed would be on the shoulders of Tim’s uniform.

“That started me thinking about officership and what that meant in my life,” Tim says.

After high school, Tim’s thoughts returned to officership.

“I had always felt that I would be an officer, and I started the process a couple of times,” he smiles, “but God seemed to be telling me that while I was called,

I wasn’t called—yet. I needed to wait.”

Two Journeys It was at that point that Tim started dating Kerrin, whose path had been remarkably similar to his.

Born and raised in her church, she’d worshipped with her family all of her life.

“I even entered a discipleship program that would have led me to pastoring. Like Tim, I’d always felt called to ministry.”

But when the pastoral school closed in her first year, Kerrin returned to Powell River, B.C., where she and Tim started to date.

Coming Home Tim told Kerrin about his plans for ministry.

“I replied, ‘Yes, I’ve always felt called to ministry, too,’ ” says Kerrin. “I didn’t know if that meant The Salvation Army or if it just meant ministry in general. I was just glad that Tim also felt called to something and we left it at that. But the seed was planted.”

Tim and Kerrin were married in 2010, with Tim’s father and Kerrin’s pastor jointly presiding.

The couple eventually settled in Grande Prairie, Alta., where family friends, Majors Daniel and Glenda Roode, were the corps officers.

Kerrin had never attended an Army church before.

“For me, family and church go together,” she says, “so finding a church where family friends were the officers connected me to home.”

Two Soldiers Soon, Kerrin and Tim become involved in their church to the point where Major Daniel told the couple, “I think you are both called to officership. God’s telling you where you need to be.”

While they demurred, Kerrin took soldiership preparation classes and was enrolled in September 2014.

Tim was always passionate about his soldiership and it didn’t take long for Kerrin to feel the same way.

“I appreciated the community inwardly, but I also saw how willing The Salvation Army is to support the community outwardly as well,” Kerrin says.

“That resonated with me.”

“Get Prepared” Kerrin and Tim attended an Officer Information Weekend just after she became a soldier. While they knew God was telling them that officership was in their future, they weren’t ready to take that step.

It wasn’t until the couple moved back to Powell River in January 2016 that the question of officership came up again.

“We were very involved in our church,” says Kerrin, “but we started feeling that nudge again.”

Persuaded to attend another Officer Information Weekend, this second visit did the trick.

“We knew this time that God was saying, ‘You’re ready. This is where I want you to be. Get prepared,’ ” says Tim. Open Doors The couple were accepted as part of the 2020 Messengers of Reconciliation Session at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg.

Neither have any regrets.

“I’m passionate about community and helping out in situations where some people might not feel comfortable, such as street ministry,” says Tim. “There, I can share the love of God.” “Like Tim, I’m passionate about helping the unseen,” says Kerrin.

Concludes Tim, “God shook things up and The Salvation Army opened up a door for us, which was officership.”

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Closer to God Vivienne’s life changed forever at The Salvation Army’s Mitanda Home in Zambia.

BY KATHY NGUYEN

“ She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”—Proverbs 31:25

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he annual Self-Denial Partners in Mission resource trip provides The Salvation Army with an opportunity to highlight the work being done around the globe. As we collect photos, videos and stories of those being helped, we see the work of the Army first-hand.

While on a two-week trip to Zambia, we travelled to different provinces, visited various ministries and interviewed beneficiaries from all walks of life. On the last leg of our trip, we visited the Copperbelt region, Ndola, to visit The Salvation Army Mitanda Home for the Aged. As we drove through the compound gates, I knew that I was in the presence of important and transformational ministry.

In partnership with the Republic of Zambia, the Mitanda Home for the Aged has been a refuge for Zambia’s impoverished, abandoned and vulnerable seniors for more than 70 years.

“The elderly we care for come from 16 February 2021 Salvationist

Photos: Mark Yan

One of Vivienne’s favourite parts about living at Mitanda Home in Zambia is the spiritual support she receives

different backgrounds,” says Lt-Colonel Frazer Chalwe, the home’s manager.

“Some were rejected by their children and community, while others didn’t have any family to turn to.”

“The Salvation Army breathed new life into me,” says Vivienne.

Vivienne’s Testimony When we first arrived at the home, we were brought to a meeting room where Lt-Colonel Chalwe leads morning devotions. I sat with the seniors and caretakers as they listened to his sermon and said their morning prayers. Seated in the front row was Vivienne, one of the home’s long-term residents.

Vivienne had been living at the home for more than 20 years. She came to Mitanda carrying years of trauma. After being emotionally, psychologically and physically abused by her husband, she

was abandoned on the street and left with nothing but the clothes on her back.

“My husband didn’t treat me well,” she says. “The sisters in the convent found me and brought me here.”

After the Catholic church found her isolated on the street, they approached The Salvation Army seeking desperate assistance. Soon after, Vivienne was admitted to the Mitanda Home for the Aged and has been living there ever since.

At Mitanda, Vivienne and other residents receive shelter and protection; clean water and well-balanced meals; health care through the facility’s on-site clinic, and spiritual and pastoral support.

One of Vivienne’s favourite parts about living at this home is the spiritual support she receives. Each day, there is a morning devotion and an afternoon spiritual meeting where residents receive pastoral care.

“The Salvation Army breathed new life into me,” she says. “I love to hear the singing and the music; I love hearing the colonel preach about love, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.”

Many of the residents come to know Jesus for the first time, and this faith is

what carries them throughout their days at Mitanda.

“Without The Salvation Army, some of the residents wouldn’t have made it much longer. They arrive with many doubts and mistrust; they think it’s a place where they’ve come to die,” says Lt-Colonel Chalwe. “But I always tell them that Mitanda is not the end— Mitanda is merely the starting point to heaven, and you are closer to God. This gives them hope, and I’ve personally seen this renewed hope prolong their lives.”

Lt-Col Frazer Chalwe leads a morning devotion

Many of the residents come to know Jesus for the first time.

Sharing the Love of Jesus Christ While working with the Army for the last two years, I have often heard our mission statement repeated: “The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ.”

After speaking with Vivienne, I am comforted knowing that The Salvation Army in Zambia is achieving this mission through the ministry at Mitanda. “This home has shown me the love that God has for me,” she says.

Vivienne, like many of the residents, came to this home with severe trauma, fear and hopelessness. With the loving care she’s received from officers, staff, caretakers and fellow residents for the past 24 years, she has renewed hope, strength and, most of all, faith.

“Many times, because of her trauma, Vivienne has come up to me and asked, ‘Are you going to chase me out of here?’ ” says Lt-Colonel Chalwe. “And to that, I say, ‘No, ma’am. This is your home and I won’t leave you.’ ” Around the world, Salvation Army seniors’ homes such as Mitanda allow vulnerable people to live out their final days with peace, dignity and spiritual care. Vivienne has already chosen her burial site at a cemetery located across from the home—her home. When she’s ready to go to her eternal home, she knows she won’t be alone. She’ll be wrapped in love, clothed with strength and dignity, and she will have The Salvation Army by her side.

Spiritual care is an integral part at Mitanda for residents (left) and caretakers (above) alike

Salvation Army seniors’ homes allow residents to live with peace, dignity and spiritual care

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Road Map for Recruitment New four-point strategic plan developed to help identify and guide prospective candidates to ministry as officers.

BY MAJOR JENNIFER HALE

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he last several months have seen the development of a strategic plan for officer recruitment in the Canada and Bermuda Territory, by the candidates recruitment working group. The development of the plan included a survey of all officers and cadets asking some key questions, time spent in conversation and listening to other denominational leaders as it relates to their experience in pastoral recruitment, and learning from our ongoing recruitment efforts and processes.

As a result, four strategic priorities were identified to help continue the present momentum in officer recruitment. To see the plan in its entirety with relevant action steps, visit SACandidates.ca.

Strategic Priority 1— Positive Role Models Rationale: The relational influences of officers and local officers have the greatest impact on prospective candidates.

Goal: To demonstrate joy in ministry as a Salvation Army officer.

After reviewing the survey results, to which over half of our officer and cadet personnel from across the territory responded, it was evident that the biggest influences on an individual’s decision to become an officer were relational, primarily officers and local officers. It’s a reminder to all Salvationists, particularly those in leadership roles, that the ways in which we engage with others and respond to our ministry responsibilities play an important part in the life of a prospective candidate.

Call and Commitment Sunday is February 7.

Join us at facebook.com/salvationistmagazine for interactive worship at 4 p.m. EST and visit SACandidates.ca for more information.

18 February 2021 Salvationist

Strategic Priority 2— Identify and Recruit Rationale: More than two-thirds of current officers cite that relational influencers, such as officers, family and local officers, had the greatest impact on their decision to become an officer. There is a need to shift from a culture where candidates primarily self-identify toward a reality where influencers proactively recruit and identify candidates.

Goal: To continuously find new people with candidate potential and “tap them on the shoulder.”

This strategic priority comes out of a need to adapt the culture of officer recruitment in our territory. It relates to the first priority, in that it again acknowledges the importance of relational influences. Here, though, the emphasis is on the identification of people’s giftings and spiritual maturity and engaging them in a discipleship process to help them discern if the best use of their gifts would be in the context of Salvation Army officership.

Strategic Priority 3— Mission and Values Rationale: The Salvation Army has a unique role within the church and people are attracted to our mission and values.

Goal: To inspire prospective candidates by demonstrating the importance of the Salvation Army mission for our world today and the essential role of officer leaders.

The dynamic mission and values of The Salvation Army are never out of date. While there are people without

the hope of Christ, while there is suffering and poverty, The Salvation Army’s mission will be relevant.

Our hope is that as officers, soldiers, employees and volunteers continue to engage with the Army’s mission and give witness to life-changing stories, those whom God is calling to partner with us in our mission will be inspired to respond.

Strategic Priority 4— The Journey to Officer Training Rationale: To inspire prospective candidates by demonstrating the importance of the Salvation Army mission for our world today and the essential role of officer leaders.

Goal: To make the journey to becoming a Salvation Army cadet or officer in training proactive, engaging and purposeful.

The fourth strategic priority emphasizes the journey that an individual takes to officer training.

The desired outcome is that the journey will be one of discipleship, support and growth. It also highlights our procedures and processes, and the necessity for them to be purposeful and informative.

Our team has already begun working on several pieces of the strategic plan.

You can read about one of our new initiatives on the next page. Our invitation to all Salvationists is to give consideration and prayer as to how you can participate and partner with us in the development and recruitment of future officers. Reach out to your divisional secretary for candidates to offer your support, and me, to offer your feedback. We look forward with anticipation to all that God has in store for The Salvation Army in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Candidates Fellowship has been reimagined to better help Salvationists explore God’s call to officership.

BY MAJOR JENNIFER HALE

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t a young age, I knew that God had placed a call on my life for Salvation Army officership. I was enrolled as a senior soldier at the age of 14 and eagerly awaited my 15th birthday so that I could enrol in the Candidates Fellowship. I continue to be grateful for the way in which my corps officers and local leaders invested in me in those formative years. They were patient with me through the ups and downs of my teenage journey while also pointing out my gifts and giving me opportunities to test my call through various opportunities in the corps. I watched my corps officers, now Lt-Colonels Eddie and Genevera Vincent, with eagerness as they led Sunday meetings and provided pastoral and spiritual leadership to our corps and community.

It was under their leadership and influence that I was enrolled as a soldier and became a member of the Candidates Fellowship.

The Candidates Fellowship was a place of connection where I was able to interact with my divisional youth secretaries and other like-minded individuals who were also exploring God’s call on their lives for officership. Now, 25 years later, it’s been my privilege to work with our team of divisional secretaries for candidates across the territory to reimagine the Candidates Fellowship and to officially launch a new expression of this important ministry: Candidates Connect.

Candidates Connect was birthed out of some strategic thinking in February 2020 when we identified four strategic priorities to help us continue our momentum in officer recruitment. It will exist to create space for individuals exploring God’s call on their lives for ministry in The Salvation Army and provide opportunity to discern if officership is the avenue to obediently respond. Individuals will be able to experience community while engaging in intentional spiritual growth and development. The foundation and mission of Candidates Connect have been captured in the following three pillars:

1. Building Character Candidates Connect will actively develop spiritual maturity, practical faith, and holiness of life and witness of the members.

The Orders and Regulations for the Training of Salvation Army Officers notes the importance of “discipleship— expressed in spiritual growth, character formation and Salvationist identification.”

One of the goals of Candidates Connect will be to facilitate and further the discipleship of its members through opportunities, such as mentoring, small group Bible study and other helps for discerning God’s call. In a lecture at the recent Officership Information Weekend, Major Andrew Morgan, training principal at the College for Officer Training, gave this word of encouragement to all delegates: “If we are going to be good leaders, Salvation Army officers, we must be paying attention to our character and our holiness and spiritual health.”

Candidates Connect will actively develop spiritual maturity, practical faith and holiness of life.

2. Building Capacity Candidates Connect will actively develop the practical, academic and leadership skills, and knowledge base of members.

This will be facilitated through various leadership opportunities in the context of the local corps and perhaps even some service opportunities in your division. The goal will be to give individuals as much experience as possible to prepare them for training as officers.

3. Building Community Candidates Connect will actively develop comradery and fellowship among members through their shared experience

of exploring God’s call on their lives.

Our hope is that you will find a place of belonging and friendship, where you can be sharpened as you interact with others on a similar journey.

This framework will be the means by which the purpose of Candidates Connect will be accomplished. Each division has taken time to vision and plan the implementation of the framework in their contexts. Divisional secretaries for candidates will be communicating next steps and inviting you to join in these new efforts through prayer, partnership or participation.

Is Candidates Connect For You? The language of building has been intentionally chosen to emphasize that God’s call and the consideration of Salvation Army officership is a process. Joining Candidates Connect in your division does not mean that you already have all the skills and experience needed to enter officer training; neither does it mean that you have fully resolved that officership is the way forward for your life. But it does mean that you are open to God’s leading in your life, specifically as it relates to officership, and that you are interested in learning, growing and developing to that end.

Candidates Connect is more than a simple rebranding or relaunch of an existing program. Rather, it is an intentional effort to engage with one another as together we explore the best way to fulfil God’s purpose in our lives and our role as Salvationists in carrying out the mission to share the love of Jesus, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities in which we live. As Candidates Connect launches, we invite you to join us in this exciting journey.

For more information on Candidates Connect visit SACandidates.ca.

Major Jennifer Hale is the secretary for candidates and assistant territorial children and youth secretary for Canada and Bermuda.

Salvationist February 2021 19

GLOBAL FOCUS

Nordic Adventures The mission of The Salvation Army in the happiest country in the world.

Mjrs Gerry and Hannu Lindholm enrol senior soldier Aino Kulmala in the Vaasa Corps

GL: We celebrated our 25th wedding

anniversary at training college in Newfoundland and Labrador.

While we were there, Hannu listed Finnish on an application as one of the languages he speaks. We had just begun our third year of ministry when we received a call from our divisional commander, who asked, “Have you ever thought about serving in Finland? It’s number one on the list of territories who need officers.”

We prayed about it and even though Hannu’s Finnish was rusty—his family immigrated to Canada when he was two—he was happy to go. I thought, Well, I can learn! We arrived in Finland in August 2008.

What were some of the biggest adjustments you had to make?

GL: Finland has a similar culture and

values to Canada—family, sports, the arts—so it made it quite easy.

HL: The geography is also quite similar,

especially to Ontario, with lots of lakes and forests and four seasons.

GL: It’s a very quiet, independent

C

onsistently ranked by the United Nations as “the happiest country in the world,” Finland is a place of opportunity for The Salvation Army.

Canadian officers Majors Hannu and Gerry Lindholm are serving in the Finland and Estonia Territory as territorial corps property secretary and training college principal, respectively. Features editor Giselle Randall spoke with them about cultural differences, learning a new language and the Finnish spirit.

Tell us about your journey to officership and international service.

Major Gerry Lindholm: We both grew up

in northern Ontario. My family has a farm just north of Englehart, and Hannu lived outside Kirkland Lake.

After we got married, I was a social 20 February 2021 Salvationist

worker for 10 years, and then went back to school and became a teacher. I taught elementary school for 13 years before becoming an officer.

Major Hannu Lindholm: I joined the

Canadian Armed Forces at 18. After 10 years in the infantry, I became an electrical engineer and master builder, and spent the last 12 years of my military career building around the world. When I retired, we moved to Glencairn, Ont., near Barrie, and attended The Salvation Army’s Hope Acres. My father taught me to build log homes. I built our dream home and eventually started a log-home building business. Then the Lord called us into ministry, and now we’re building the kingdom for him.

culture. They express their national character with the word sisu—which I interpret as being internal fortitude, the idea that they are strong and can get through anything.

HL: They also care for their people

with an excellent social system. Taxes are high, but people understand their taxes are paying for things like education, which is free. Finland is noted to have the best education system in the world.

GL: As for adjustments, it took a while

for me to learn enough Finnish to work independently of Hannu. It was about two years before I took a train trip on my own and felt I could cope.

During my first sermon, I stuck to my notes, because my conversational Finnish is not as strong as I’d like it to be. I spoke passionately for God to give us his peace. But instead of peace,

GLOBAL FOCUS

I said, “Lord, give us all your money.”

HL: Peace is rauhaa and money is raha.

GL: There was silence. And then

somebody said, “Well, yes, I guess we need money, too.”

Tell us about your appointments and the challenges you face.

HL: Our first appointment was as corps

officers in Rauma, a town on the west coast. We were surprised to find out that The Salvation Army wasn’t a church here.

GL: Not an official registered church.

Even though people worshipped at the Army, the majority of the members belonged to the Finnish Lutheran Church.

HL: After 18 months in Rauma, we were

sent to Kajaani, in the central north, as corps officers.

GL: During the time we were in

Kajaani, I was asked to teach a course at the training college in Helsinki. In 2011, we received an appointment to the Helsinki Corps, and I split my time between the corps and the college.

Eventually, I became full-time at the college as education officer. Hannu was appointed to Porvoo, just outside Helsinki, so I commuted back and forth.

Then my sister was diagnosed with ALS. I felt strongly that the Lord was asking me to care for her, and The Salvation Army graciously gave us leave to return to Canada. We arrived home on July 25, and my sister died on November 25.

After three years in Canada, we came back to Finland in 2019. Like many countries, Finland is struggling for officers, so every officer wears many hats—that’s a huge challenge.

For instance, I’m the training principal, section head for training and education, I serve on eight territorial boards, two of which I chair, I’m on the pastoral care committee for the territory and I’m also leading a pilot leadership project as part of my doctor of ministry in leadership at Tyndale University.

What do you enjoy about working with cadets?

GL: How can you not enjoy working

with people who have felt called to give their whole lives to the service of God through ministry? I love the

fact that God calls people individually, so they have different gifts and talents. I love being part of that whole formation. I get as much out of it as they get from me, that’s for sure. I thought God was calling me out of teaching into full-time ministry, but teaching is my gift and I have found myself using it in ministry. My part of kingdom building is to invest in future leaders, and so that is a joy.

HL: Seeing Gerry use her gifts has

been a tremendous blessing. I’m currently serving as the territorial corps property secretary, which draws on my skills as an engineer as I travel throughout the territory, supporting officers with their buildings. It’s always heart-breaking to close a corps building when we don’t have enough workers, knowing the Army provides spiritual and social care in these communities. A challenge for me is that I miss corps ministry, but everywhere I go I get to preach.

My corps is the whole country, the whole territory. Recently, I have received an additional responsibility as an associate corps officer at the Helsinki Temple, which is a traditional Swedish-speaking corps.

How has the Army responded to the pandemic?

HL: In early March 2020, when we started to feel the impact of COVID-19,

it was difficult to find people to work on the front line. I received a call and

Mjr Hannu Lindholm receives a donation of cooking pots. “This long-standing tradition is very popular in Finland,” he says. “Every year, usually in early fall, we get hundreds of cooking pots, which will be recycled into traditional Christmas kettles at the Salvation Army men’s shelter workshop in Helsinki”

said, “Of course I’ll go.” We stayed for four weeks straight. I could see God working there.

I’ve been helping at The Salvation Army’s social-assistance centre here in Helsinki, where we’ve had hundreds of people standing in line on the street for food. I’m also providing spiritual support, praying with people. I’ve become the food bank pastor.

What has been the highlight of your international service?

GL: For me, the highlight is seeing

how God has worked through my weakness. My strength has always been communication—my ability to speak, read, write. Those things were part of what defined me, and when I arrived in Finland I could not communicate. I couldn’t speak the language, I couldn’t read the language, I couldn’t write the language. I was very dependent on Hannu. I questioned why I was here— what could God do with me when I couldn’t communicate? And yet he showed me time and time again that if I was willing, he would use me. I have seen God work in ways I never would have seen had I not been here.

Salvationist February 2021 21

Photo: Prixel Creative/Lightstock.com

Single Minded Five ways to include those who aren’t married.

BY CAPTAIN JACLYN WYNNE

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’ve come to believe that the church with the best singles’ ministry is the church that does not have one. Meaning, while there may be value in offering some events geared toward specific groups on occasion, we can and should integrate singles into our overall ministries. Failure to do so robs our communities of unique and valuable perspectives and mutual hospitality.

The number of single-person households has doubled over the last 35 years, according to a CBC article from March 2019. The fastest growing age group of people living alone is 35-64 years. In fact, single-person households are now the most common type of household. Of course, not all those considered single households are unattached adults, but these numbers indicate a shift in our society’s focus on marriage and family over the last three decades.

The church has been slow to adjust to this growing trend, continuing to focus on marriage and family as the ultimate goal.

Singles seem to be an afterthought and are expected to find meaning and community with other singles in the church, whether or not they have any other common ground.

Sometimes I have experienced anxiety in having to attend large events such as officer retreats or church-related banquets or events alone. Well-meaning friends and family suggest finding other singles to sit with at these events. However, often the only thing we have in common is our marital status.

We must realize that the single experience varies widely from person to person and includes those who have never been married, people who are divorced, people 22 February 2021 Salvationist

whose spouse has died, singles with children and without, and differing gender identities. There are even those who may not be technically single but experience their spirituality and life in the church as a single, because their partner does not share the same beliefs. The one thing that unites all these groups is the fact that the church can be a lonely place for a single adult.

We can’t address the entire experience of singles in the church in one article. So, what can we do as a starting point, both as individuals and the greater body? Here are some suggestions based on my own experience with being single in the church.

1. When we are once again able to host community gatherings such as meals or seminars that involve table seating, set an odd number around the tables. A simple gesture like this can alleviate some awkwardness for your single attendees.

2. When you notice someone coming into a worship service alone, extend the invitation to sit with you and your family. This can help the person feel more at ease and be able to enter fully into worship. For many, it is easier to attend events with someone, and when this is not possible, the invitation to sit with you might make the difference in that person coming back.

3. Invite your single members to participate in Sunday worship, and be particularly inclusive at special times such as Advent, Christmas and Easter. We tend to focus only on

family participation on special Sundays, but single adults can contribute to worship as well.

4. Be mindful of your comments.

While it is OK for married people to say things like, “I did not know what tired was before I had kids,” be sure to keep the focus on your own experience without projecting it onto someone else by saying something like, “You’re single with no kids— how could you possibly be tired?” For a single person who may suffer from something such as chronic fatigue, comments like this can dismiss the very real experience of a debilitating illness, and potentially be a painful reminder of dreams they had for a family that just did not work out the way they had hoped.

5. Offer to bring a meal to your single friends during stressful periods.

When people are under stress, one of the first things that tends to happen is we forget to eat or have no energy to prepare meals. We often do this for families experiencing stress, such as the death of a loved one, job loss, etc. This is a simple act that you could do for a single friend as well.

A church that is effectively ministering in a community should reflect the demographic, and the church can’t continue to ignore the presence of single adults in its midst or treat them as a problem to be fixed.

Captain Jaclyn Wynne is the corps officer at Erin Mills Corps in Mississauga, Ont.

CORPS VALUES

A Lifelong Covenant She may be retired, but Major Lillian Pelley continues to serve God and others.

T

o say that Major Lillian Pelley retired from “active service” as an officer in The Salvation Army in 2003 would not be entirely accurate. Yes, she did receive a certificate marking the official date of her retirement almost two decades after she was commissioned in 1985 as a cadet in the Guardians of the Truth Session from the College for Officer Training in St. John’s, N.L. However, she has been very actively and faithfully engaged in post-retirement service as a corps officer in the Newfoundland and Labrador Division for nearly 10 years.

News editor Pamela Richardson asked Major Pelley to share her thoughts on the important role of the corps officer, why she continues to serve and some of her fondest memories of ministry.

When were you called to officership?

I recognized the call to officership as a young child, but like many young people, I placed it on hold until my later years.

Where have you served, both before and after retirement?

Early in my officership, I enjoyed three corps appointments in Newfoundland

and Labrador, in Lower Lance Cove, Monkstown and Cottrell’s Cove. I also served in the finance department at territorial headquarters in Toronto, and at three social services centres, including London Children’s Village, Ont., Parkdale House in Sydney, N.S., and Evangeline Residence in Toronto.

This is my 10th year in postretirement service in corps appointments in Newfoundland and Labrador.

I was in Little Heart’s Ease for two years, Robert’s Arm for one year, Charlottetown for six years, and I am presently in my first year in Englee.

Why continue to serve in retirement?

My motivation first came to me as I read my Officer’s Covenant at training college. It said: “I will love and serve God supremely all my days as a Salvation Army officer.” I recall struggling with that at the time, but when I did sign it, for me it was for life.

I can’t imagine not being able to do what I am doing.

What has been your biggest joy as a corps officer?

Seeing someone accept Jesus into their

life. Nothing on earth can give me more joy than that.

What has been the most difficult?

My biggest challenge, perhaps, has been keeping up with the changing technology within the Army.

Is there anything about the role of a corps officer that has gone by the wayside that you would like to see revived?

I always find a real ministry in home visitation with my people. You see, people will not stop on a Sunday morning as they leave church and tell you that they are having an issue with a family member or that something else is bothering them. However, when you sit down to a meal or a cup of tea with them, they feel they have the time and freedom to share what is on their mind. We don’t visit like we used to, and I feel that we are missing out when we don’t do it.

What is your fondest memory of ministry?

My fondest memories are of the friends I have made along the way, the victories won and the answered prayers. I do have one moment that stands out for me, when a woman experiencing homelessness in Toronto hugged me and told me that I had made an impact on her life. That is a memory I will never forget.

What advice would you give to newly commissioned officers as they begin their journey of ministry?

I would tell them to develop their prayer life, love their people and treat them all alike. Visit often and be an example to the flock to which they are sent.

Mjr Lillian Pelley is the corps officer in Englee, N.L.

Salvationist February 2021 23

Photo: isara/stock.Adobe.com

FAMILY MATTERS

Living Lent It’s more than just giving up coffee or chocolate.

BY CAPTAIN BHREAGH ROWE

I

t’s that time of year when we all decide to give up something for Lent, whether it’s coffee, chocolate or social media. But lately, I’ve been wondering if this approach is a discipleship shortcut—a way to make us feel like we’re following Jesus without any meaningful growth.

Are we trying to “life hack” Lent?

Lent is the 40-day period—not including Sundays—before Easter, a time when Christians are called to prayer and repentance, representing the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert before starting his earthly ministry. The Spirit led Jesus into the desert to pray, fast and seek God’s will. During that time, the devil tempted him over and over again, physically, mentally and spiritually, trying to push him over the edge. Jesus resisted the temptation because he had been fasting for 40 days, replacing physical food with spiritual reliance on the Father.

For me, whenever a big Christian holiday comes up, I always try to think about what we can learn as a family, and how we can apply that learning in our everyday lives. With Lent, the lessons vary, but all 24 February 2021 Salvationist

fall under the same theme—to remind us of Jesus’ sacrifice and to reflect on what it means to be a Christ-follower.

“

In giving up these things, are we actually learning to be more like Jesus?

”

Insert our life-hacking skills. Instead of taking a deep dive into our souls and allowing God to search our hearts for the sin we refuse to acknowledge, we try to make things a little more comfortable. We journey toward the cross, feeling accomplished if we give up our Starbucks addiction, sweet-tooth fix or daily Facebook preoccupation. But in giving up these things, are we actually learning to be more like Jesus? I might be wrong, but I think the answer is no.

Jesus made a huge sacrifice for us.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to model that sacrifice. As parents, we have the responsibility to teach that sacrifice.

Not the life-hacked version but the true, meaningful, gospel-centred, hard version.

Jesus went through “hard” in the desert in order to continue his holy purpose.

He calls us to that same hard because, let’s be honest, giving up coffee is the worst, but it’s not hard.

These are some big lessons for us.

These are some big lessons for our kids.

Lessons that will serve our kids much more than just learning to give up something. So how do we explain this deep, meaningful and fundamental piece of our belief system?

Live those lessons ourselves. Nothing will teach your kids more than modelling the lessons of Lent, which means more than just giving up chocolate or coffee.

Read the Gospels. I know this may sound silly, and there’s nothing wrong with children’s Bible story books. But if Lent is about Jesus and God’s big plan for our littles, we need to open that Word and help our kids develop the skill of reading the Bible.

Tell them what Jesus did and why. I am a big proponent of not oversharing world news with our children, but in this case, there is no such thing as oversharing. Let your kids know how badly Jesus was treated and how he went through all those horrible things because he loves them so much.

Finally, use Lent to help your kids develop healthy spiritual rhythms. No matter how old they are, it’s not too soon to teach them the importance of sacrificing some stuff that we may want to do and fill ourselves with Jesus, prayer and his Word instead.

Lent is easily overlooked as something that we just always do. But when we look at it through the lens of teaching our children to be strong, knowledgeable and passionate Jesus-followers, Lent becomes a significant opportunity. I want to teach my kids that Jesus gave up so much more than his daily caffeine fix—he died for them. He calls us to quit the life-hacking and to build our lives upon that beautiful sacrifice.

Captain Bhreagh Rowe is the community ministries officer at St. Albert Church and Community Centre in Edmonton.

Photo: Prixel Creative/Lightstock.com

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENTS

Jesus Yes, Church Yes What is the millennial generation seeking from the church?

BY MAJOR RICK ZELINSKY

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n the last decade, the church in North America has experienced an exodus of approximately two-thirds of millennials.

If you have attended a formal church gathering in recent years, you have likely witnessed this happening. In 2020, The Salvation Army appointed me to the corps mission resource department with the task of creating a strategy for retaining and reaching this generation of young adults.

In December, the Canada and Bermuda Territory distributed a survey as the first step of a virtual listening tour for adults between 18 and 38 years old (the millennial generation and older Generation Z). In church culture and millennial studies, the growing and consistent response to questions of faith is, “Jesus yes, church no.”

For adults who belong to this emerging generation of leaders, the teaching of Jesus and the mission of the church resonate with their worldview and vision for justice, on both a local and global scale. However, there is a disconnect when it comes to their impression of Jesus, the head of the church, and his followers, the corporate embodiment of formal religion. Hence the growing “Jesus yes, church no” attitude.

There is no denying that we are experiencing a rapid decline in church attendance. Research done between 2010 and 2020 shows a drop in Sunday worship attendance by 64 percent among the Gen Z and millennial group.

At the same time, in the past three to five years, there has been

an overwhelming response to Australian church plants that have moved into major Canadian cities, attracting millennials by the thousands and influencing other church plants across the country.

The outcome? A generation of young leaders rising and engaging in Sabbath worship, community service and taking initiative in their own personal growth and Christian discipleship. It leaves us to wonder, What are they doing right? What is this generation seeking from the church?

The End of an Era In The End of Words, author Richard Lischer argues that the church in the post-Second World War era lost its influence as a result of a disconnect between the teaching of Jesus and the words and actions of the church in the 1960s and 1970s. In the aftermath of atrocities like the Holocaust and the Vietnam War, the baby boomer generation questioned the existence of God and the authority of the church, turning to other voices for meaning. The words of the church, seen as assenting to the social injustices of an era, fell on deaf ears.

The millennial generation, the children of the baby boomers, grew up with complete freedom to question the message of the church. Within this cultural, social, economic and political global shift, the church found its message competing for space in the digital landscape of the information age. Millennials have grown up with ideas of relationships, family, life, self and faith forged Salvationist February 2021 25

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENTS

CROSS CULTURE

IN REVIEW in those spaces; they do not accept the faith of their parents at face value, but rather, they wrestle with questions of God and his relationship to this world, challenging their own understanding of his relevance to their everyday life.

The God Who Sees:

A Searching Generation In this new cultural space, there is much opportunity for the church to answer those questions. Perhaps there is no better time than now for a body of people to embrace a searching generation. There are also many questions for the church. As we seek to find answers and develop a strategy, our working group will be made up of people from the generation we hope to reach. The survey was the first volley for the project, paving the way for focus groups.

We wholly believe that addressing the needs of emerging generations requires engaging the wisdom of their peers. We are listening to God, drawing from our experience and that of the community and bringing voices to the table to create a way forward as we discover the opportunities for The Salvation Army.

REVIEW BY PAULA MARSHALL

There is an open door for The Salvation Army to listen to the voices of our young leaders and make way for a generation that is looking beyond themselves.

In a 2002 study on the religious landscape of the United States, the PEW Research Center found the following data among millennials. When asked about their belief in God, only 17 percent of 20-somethings answered a definite “no,” and 64 percent of the same group shared that they prayed on a regular basis. While 68 percent of young millennials believe in heaven, an astonishing 81 percent answered in the affirmative to “having a sense of wonder about the universe.”

There is an open door for The Salvation Army to listen to the voices of our young leaders and make way for a generation that is looking beyond themselves. This pursuit brings to life words from Scripture: “For since the creation of the world [God’s] invisible attributes, that is, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, being understood by what has been made” (Romans 1:20 NASB).

In the song Hosanna by Hillsong Worship, the lyrics, “I see a generation, rising up to take their place with selfless faith,” resonates with the church of today. Millennials have not given up on God or his church. They are asking the church to live a life that is congruent with the life of Jesus; for a church body that is connected to its head. In the coming weeks and into the spring, we will dig deeper into this project, as we invite your input in our focus group discussions. We will listen with you, pray for you and create a strategy that disrupts our movement, guiding us to a place where we can all agree, “Jesus yes, church yes.”

Major Rick Zelinsky is the millennial project officer.

26 February 2021 Salvationist

Immigrants, The Bible, and the Journey to Belong

By Karen Gonzáles

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rowing up in a regular middleclass, dominant-culture church, I never saw the people in the Bible as anything but the same as me. The cartoon characters on the Sunday school felt board looked like me, just wearing old-timey clothes and with way more sheep around than I would encounter on a typical day in suburban Toronto. While I knew people of other ethnicities and appreciated the different cultures around me, I never stopped to think what it felt like to see a blonde-haired, blue-eyed Jesus looking down at them from the painting on the church wall. I never stopped to consider how Jesus would have looked more like some of my friends than he would like me. And how that would have made his life and experience different from mine.

In addition, I was taught that God knew everything about me because Jesus experienced everything I would go through.

But that doesn’t mean Jesus had the same life I did. I never had to run for my life as a child as an enemy of the state, endure prison and torture or face execution. Even though God knows everything I will experience, I can never know everything Jesus experienced.

As Canada takes the lead in resettling refugees globally, and encourages immigration from around the world, we can learn more about our shared God from our new neighbours. By listening to their stories and learning from their experiences, we can become aware of other aspects of God that our personal experience would never let us fully know. That profound learning is at the heart of Karen Gonzáles’ book.

Looking at familiar characters I have known my whole life—Abraham and Sarah, Hagar, Joseph, the Syrophoenician woman, and the Holy Family—Gonzáles helps me understand their stories from the perspective of her shared experience with them, helping me see things that I missed before. My understanding of God has grown wider and deeper through Gonzáles’ story of coming to America, and her retelling of biblical stories through an immigrant’s perspective. God sees those who are overlooked by my middle-class, dominant-culture bias. And now my eyes have been opened to see them, too. At the end of the book, Gonzáles offers next steps to help readers become more aware of the way immigrants experience coming to a new home.

The corps mission resource department is offering a sixsession book club for The God Who Sees through its online learning cohorts, to consider and discuss how we, as The Salvation Army, might welcome our new neighbours. For more information and to register, visit saMissionResource.ca.

Purchase Karen Gonzáles’ The God Who Sees: Immigrants, the Bible, and the Journey to Belong at Amazon.ca.

Paula Marshall is the immigrant and refugee ministries consultant for the corps mission resource department in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

PEOPLE & PLACES

TORONTO—Representative police officers from the Toronto Police Service deliver toys in support of Etobicoke Temple’s Christmas assistance program. The toy drive was part of the police officers’ annual effort to raise funds and purchase toys for The Salvation Army. Receiving the toys is Mjr Robert Reid, CO, who says the police officers are active participants with the Army not just at Christmastime, but throughout the year.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Three young people take a stand for Christ as they are enrolled as senior soldiers at St. John’s Temple. Proudly displaying their Soldier’s Covenants are, from left, Claire Murphy, Shianne Barrett and Shayla Barrett. Celebrating with them are, back, from left, RS Arlene Riche; CSM Rick Hynes, holding the flag; and Mjrs Peter and Janice Rowe, COs.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—The corps family at St. John’s Temple celebrates as four junior soldiers are enrolled. Physically distanced from each other but connected by their shared love for God are, from left, Maisy Pritchett, Jonah Courish, Kiley White and Emily March. Supporting the young people are, back, from left, Josh Holloway, youth director; Mjrs Peter and Janice Rowe, COs; CSM Rick Hynes, holding the flag; and Betty Cunningham, preparation class instructor.

OSHAWA, ONT.—With the congregation not able to physically gather together to mark the Advent season due to the pandemic, Oshawa Temple took the celebration to the homes of the corps family. Working with a team of people, Dave Corrigan (left), director of evangelism, and Shona Burditt, director of children, youth and young adult ministries, put together 200 bags that were delivered to the congregation as part of the Oshawa Temple Advent 2020 Together While Apart campaign. The bags contained supplies to make an Advent wreath and smaller bags filled with activities based on the weekly themes of hope, love, joy and peace. Each Sunday, the congregation joined together in a virtual worship service to light the candles in their individual wreaths.

Salvationist February 2021 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Major Hilda Harvey was born in Kitchener, Ont., in 1929 to Thomas and Violet Harvey. Hilda attended the Hespeler Corps and during her teen years was a corps cadet and Sunday school teacher, both there and at the Preston Outpost. After a period of assisting the corps officers, she felt the call to officership and entered the College for Officer Training in Toronto as a member of the Intercessors Session in 1951. Hilda was commissioned as a pro-lieutenant in 1952 and took up her first appointments in the women’s social department, where she served in girls’ homes for 25 years, in Toronto, Halifax, Hamilton, Ont., Sydney, N.S., Saint John, N.B., and Saskatoon. Following four years as home officer at the training college in Toronto, Hilda was the child sponsorship secretary at territorial headquarters in Toronto for 13 years. A highlight of this appointment was a trip to Jamaica and Haiti, where she met children benefitting from the Canadian sponsorship program. Hilda retired in 1994 after 42 years of joyful service, and moved to St. John’s, N.L., where she attended St. John’s Citadel. Hilda is lovingly remembered by her brother, Robert Harvey; nieces and nephews; extended family and friends.

KITCHENER, ONT.—Harry Keats, the last surviving child of Jane and Albert Keats of Bonavista, N.L., was a respected employee of the Waterloo County School Board for 25 years, retiring in 1991. Harry was a devoted Christian of Kitchener Community Church, where he contributed in many ways to the activities and life of the corps. His passion was standing at the Christmas kettle in the local Conestogo Mall. Over the many years he served, Harry made friends with many of the merchants and donors who got to know him by his first name. His Christian influence was felt by many. Predeceased by his loving wife, Grace Pauline, Harry is survived by his son, Larry (Sharon); daughter, Susan; grandchildren Laura Keats, Katie Preidt, Jamie Keats, David Meagher and Christopher Keats, and their respective families.

PETERBOROUGH, ONT.—Major Carl Bowes was a merchant navy veteran and a drummer in the Scottish Pipe Band.

Called by God to Salvation Army officership in 1950, Carl served in appointments across Canada until his retirement in 1991. He also served the Lord in various outreach ministries following his retirement. Carl was an accomplished artist who shared his gift in painting classes, both outside and inside the Army. Predeceased by his parents, Edna and Charles; wife, Ethel May; sons Carlsen and Cordell; brothers Cecil, Wallace and Herbert; and sisters Lizzie, Ruth, Arbie, Edna and Myrtle, Carl is lovingly remembered by his wife, Joyce; son, Conrad (May); sister, Grace (Smith); grandchildren Meaghan (Brad), Holly (Kyle) and Cory (Victoria); great-grandchildren Hannah and Sophia Everitt, Kaleigh Bowes, Ty and Carlee O’Neil.

BARRIE, ONT.—Major Frederick Maxwell Howse was born in 1921 in St. John’s, N.L. Frederick accepted Christ as his Saviour at the age of six and was enrolled as a junior soldier at Adelaide St. Corps (now St. John’s Citadel), where he became active in all facets of Army ministry. He entered the Valiant Session at the College for Officer Training and was commissioned as an officer in 1943. Through 24 years in corps leadership, five years in family services and 15 years in men’s social services, Frederick was known as a gentle and generous person who had a deep love for soul winning. A great encourager to everyone, he joyfully served the Lord. Predeceased by his wife, Maysie; son, David; and granddaughter, Judy Taylor, Frederick is lovingly remembered by daughters Vera (Ron) Hart and Verley Howse; grandchildren Beverly (Warren) Mills, Stephen Hart (Lilly), Tina (Michael) Bourne and Aidan (Lori) Howse; great-grandchildren Hannah and Chloe Mills, Ethan Hart, Jasper and Henry Bourne, Alexis, Ryder and Beckham Howse; nieces; nephews; and a wide circle of friends.

28 February 2021 Salvationist

SURREY, B.C.—Major Dolores Fame (nee Gass) was born in Saskatoon in 1943. At the age of five, Dolores moved to Kelowna, B.C., with her parents, William and Alice Gass, and sisters Margaret and Marion, where she attended Sunday school at The Salvation Army. In 1961, Dolores accepted Christ during young people’s councils in Vernon, B.C., and in 1962, entered the training college in Toronto in the Heroes of the Faith Session. Commissioned in 1964, Dolores served as corps officer at East Windsor, Stratford, London Oak Street and Ingersol, Ont. She married Samuel Fame in 1966 and together they served in corps appointments in Weyburn, Sask., Nelson, B.C., Flin Flon, Man., Winnipeg (Elice Avenue/Hampton Citadel), Moncton, N.B., and North Vancouver. Following five years in public relations in Vancouver and London, Ont., the Fames served the last 15 years of their active officership at the Vancouver Harbour Light (Downtown Eastside) before retiring in 2006. Affectionately known as “Dodie,” Dolores was loved for her gentle spirit and caring heart. Predeceased by her daughter, Karen, and sister, Marion, Dolores will be deeply missed by her husband, Samuel; daughter, Brenda; sons Sam Jr. (Tonya) and Steve; grandchildren Jacob, Keely and Genevieve; and sister, Margaret Gingera.

CAMBRIDGE, ONT.—Major Ralph Roy Hewlett was born in Windsor, Ont., in 1940 to Wilf and Ruth Hewlett, soldiers of Windsor Citadel. When Ralph was 14, he accepted Christ during youth councils in Chatham, Ont., and ministered at the Remington Park Outpost through the Band of Love and Sunday school. Obedient to the call of God, Ralph entered the training college in the Defenders of the Faith Session in 1964. Following commissioning, he was appointed as single men’s home officer and brigade officer. In 1967, Ralph married Captain Anne Jackson and they ministered together in corps and as hospital chaplains. The Hewletts retired from Lethbridge, Alta., in 2001, and settled in Cambridge. Throughout his life, Ralph maintained a disciplined prayer life, praying for people from every corps where he had served, until disease robbed him of those precious memories. He served as padre to Korea Veterans Association, Unit 13, and Branch 4, Canadian Airborne Forces Association, and was a member of the Probus Club of Cambridge.

Beloved brother of the late Marilyn Field, Ralph is lovingly remembered by his wife, Anne; son, Alan (Dusanka); daughter, Valerie Ward (Andrew); sisters Joy Attenborough (Doug) and Judy Carey (Dr. Tom); brother-in-law, Doug Field; and many whose lives he touched through the years.

TORONTO—Mrs. Major Dorothy Christina McMillan was born in Brantford, Ont., in 1922 to Christina and Charles Uden. Before Dorothy was one year old, the family moved to Flint, Mich. Dorothy worked for General Motors (Chevrolet Division) before moving to Canada in her early 20s and entering the College for Officer Training. Commissioned in 1948 in the King’s Messengers Session, Dorothy served at Toronto’s Greenwood Corps, East Toronto (GECO Outpost), Tweed and Campbellford, Ont., and in the property department at territorial headquarters in Toronto. After her marriage to Lieutenant Donald McMillan, they served in Gananoque, Ont., and at Toronto’s Rhodes Avenue Corps, Verdun Citadel in Montreal, Halifax Citadel, Scarborough Citadel in Toronto, Victoria Citadel and Calgary’s Glenmore Temple. Subsequent appointments took them to Quebec and Eastern Ontario Divisional Headquarters, Red Shield Services, Germany, and the THQ finance and public relations departments. In retirement, Dorothy led an over-60 club in Scarborough, served as the home league special events chairperson in Clearwater, Fla., and together with Donald served as corps officers in Essex, Ont., covered the furloughs of officers in Red Shield Services, Germany, and completed social service projects in the Brazil Territory. Dorothy will be greatly missed and remembered with love by her husband, Major Donald, and her daughter, Commissioner Susan McMillan, together with many relatives and friends.

PEOPLE & PLACES

ABBOTSFORD, B.C.—Major James Karl Hägglund was commissioned as a Messenger of Joy in 1988 and was appropriately promoted to glory with genuine joy. For those who knew James, this will not be a surprise, as they will recall his deep commitment to and passion for God. In his last days, his message was consistent: we are to love one another. That is our joy, made complete in Christ. After years of searching, James became a Christian and a senior soldier in Regina, which is also where he married his beloved Gwen and later departed for the College for Officer Training. James’ love for the Lord, his family and fellow companions on earth was apparent in his actions as he spent 30 years ministering to those around him in his appointments in corps, men’s social, National Recycling Operations, and community and family services. Predeceased by his parents, Brigadier and Mrs. A. Sigvard and Margaret Hägglund, and sister, Ellen Ann, James is survived by his wife of 47 years, Gwen (nee Ells); daughters Lisa and Naomi-Lynn; brothers; sisters-in-law; brothers-in-law; cousins; nephews and nieces.

WINNIPEG—Lifelong Salvationist Elizabeth (Betty) Holland was promoted to glory after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Betty was born in Glace Bay, N.S., in 1933 as one of 14 children. The Holland family relocated to Winnipeg in 1967 and Betty called it home for the rest of her life. Dedicated to her family, friends, The Salvation Army and helping others, Betty volunteered for many years at the Grace Hospital and canvassed for the Red Shield Appeal, Diabetes Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society. As a dedicated Salvationist, Betty was very involved in the church as a longtime member of the Heritage Park Temple Songsters and home league. Predeceased in 2011 by the love of her life and husband of 57 years, Russell Holland, Betty is survived by her son, Russell (Judy); daughters Barbara (Art) and Ruth (Ron); grandchildren Pamela, Dara Lee (Cameron), Melissa (Corrie), Gordon (Cassandra) and Jennifer; great-grandchildren Adrianna, Madison, Charlie, Julia, James, Peyton, Sadie and Sloane.

LAKEFIELD, ONT.—Robert Lewis Blanchard was born in Moose Jaw, Sask., in 1940 to Sarah Blanchard and Robert Persan. In 1954, Robert immigrated to England with his family when his father was stationed there with the Royal Canadian Air Force. While living in England, Robert became a programmer for IBM and raised his family in London with his then wife, Mary. Robert moved back to Canada in 1999 to be closer to his three sisters. A lifelong Salvationist and committed Christian, Robert was the colour sergeant for the Salvation Army band at Thornton Heath Corps in the United Kingdom and at Peterborough Temple, Ont., proudly carrying the Army flag as the band played and marched. His final years were spent at Lakefield Extendicare, where he was shown care and sensitivity. Robert is survived by his daughter, Adele Thatcher; son, Russell Blanchard; sisters Keitha, Judy and Diana.

DEER LAKE, N.L.—Major Winnifred Burt was born in Corner Brook, N.L., in 1940, where she lived until moving to Deer Lake as a teenager. Winnie attended the Memorial University of Newfoundland and taught school in Charlottetown, N.L., and Deer Lake, before entering the College for Officer Training as a member of the Servants of Christ Session.

Following her commissioning in 1963, she was appointed to Lushes Bight, N.L., as corps officer and teacher, and Carter’s Cove, N.L., as corps officer. Winnie served at divisional headquarters in St. John’s, N.L., before being appointed to the finance department at territorial headquarters, where she served for 24 years until her retirement in 1998. Winnie returned to Deer Lake and was very active in the corps through women’s ministries, community care ministries and the prayer chain ministry until her promotion to glory. Winnie is lovingly remembered by Duane and Patrick Tompkins, and family; cousins; and friends.

GAZETTE TERRITORIAL Birth: Lt Stephanie Melchiorre/Mr. Paul Melchiorre, daughter, Gabriella Faith, Nov 19 Appointments: Mjrs Tony/Patricia Kennedy, COs, Halifax Citadel CC, Maritime Div (interim appointments); Mjr Gayle Sears, spiritual life co-ordinator, Burlington Ministries, Ont. Div (additional responsibility); Mjr Mark Wagner, CO, North Toronto CC, Ont. Div (interim appointment) Promoted to major: Cpt Jason Dannock Promoted to glory: Mjr Grace McMeechan, Nov 21; Mjr Lorraine Luxford, Nov 30

CALENDAR Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd: Feb 4 Territorial Executive Conference (virtual); Feb 10 National Advisory Board Executive Committee meeting (virtual)*; Feb 11-12 personnel consultations (virtual)**; Feb 27 Brave event (virtual)** Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill: Feb 4 Territorial Executive Conference (virtual); Feb 11-12 personnel consultations (virtual)†; Feb 27 Brave event (virtual)† (*Commissioner Floyd Tidd only; **Commissioner Tracey Tidd only; † Colonel Shelley Hill only)

Salvationist February 2021 29

SALVATION STORIES

For His Glory How God is preparing me to do his work—any time, anywhere, any cost, anything.

BY PETER CHEUNG

I

was born in a non-religious Chinese

family in British Hong Kong. My father had a strong influence on me, teaching me about the importance of knowledge and honouring my parents in the Confucian sense. He was the eldest son, and he tasked me, his eldest son, to give incense to Grandma every day.

It was common for parents to send children to church-run schools in Hong Kong because they are generally better.

At my Catholic school, I had to memorize Bible verses, complete assignments and write exams for religious studies class. A verse that stuck was John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

With my strong memory for things that I like, I carried my team to victory in an interclass trivia contest on religious topics.

The final question and the tie-breaking question were related to hymns praising the Holy Spirit and Jesus as the fountain of life. These all left a great positive impact on me and my forming faith.

When I was 15, my family immigrated to

Vancouver. A classmate invited me to a Cantonese-speaking Baptist church, and I started attending. They gave me a

Chinese Bible and an Our Daily Bread devotional. I followed the daily schedule and often read the whole chapter of the assigned reading out of a pure heart. I had much joy reading through the passages for the first time, even though I was already familiar with many of the stories. It did not take too long before I received Christ in response to a sermon.

In my early Christian life as a high school student, I made mistakes in evangelism that contributed to a strong sense of guilt, shame and a period of depression. In a nutshell, my desire for romance and pride in following the rules of “no missionary dating” drove me to share my faith with a wrong motive and a wrong focus. But by the grace of God, expressed in Romans 8, I experienced his forgiveness and the situation turned around.

In the decade that followed, I was empow-

ered and equipped to evangelize. While I studied business and computer science at the University of British Columbia, I was active with Power to Change (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ).

It was during a mission trip to Panama that a colleague mentioned Jonathan Evans, the corps leader at Boundless

Vancouver. That was one of my first (indirect) encounters with The Salvation Army.

In April 2017, everything in my life was causing stress—my work in the telecommunications business, my other grandmother’s deteriorating health, my participation in a local theatre, and church.

I had nothing to turn to other than God. He responded with one word: artizo, which means “mending” and “equipping” in Greek. Artizo was also the preaching training program that I came across during my undergraduate days, where I received training.

Just as I began pursuing a master of divinity program at Regent College, the local radio station invited me—and my fellow contestants from a past singing competition—to get involved in a clothing drive supporting the Army’s National Recycling Operations. That was my second encounter with The Salvation Army.

This has been another pivotal year in my

life. In January, I was searching for postM.Div. employment and met a chaplain from The Salvation Army at a networking event. She remembered me from when I was the guest preacher at her church while I was in the Artizo program. Later, after getting to meet Jonathan Evans in person, I was called to lead Boundless Vancouver’s community ministries just as COVID-19 began to pick up. My third encounter with The Salvation Army has been to serve.

From Power to Change, to Artizo, to The Salvation Army, God has been preparing me to do his work: to preach the good news of Jesus, to care for human needs, to steward God-given resources, to be a friend, and to respond to his call any time, anywhere, at any cost, to do anything, all for his glory. I can trust his lead.

Peter Cheung (left) directs Boundless Vancouver’s COVID-19 response

30 February 2021 Salvationist

What Do All of These Officers Have In Common?

Class of Booth UC, page 2 of many...

They All Graduated with a Degree from Booth University College

Preparing the Army to give hope today and tomorrow BOOTHUC.CA

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FEBRUARY 2021

In This Together

PLANNING A WEDDING IN A PANDEMIC. P.16

First Love Valentine’s Day is a time to share heartshaped cards, chocolates and flowers with your loved one. Why not make it an occasion to remind all of your friends and family that they are cherished? Spread love around to all areas of your life.

We know about love, because God first loved us. This is the message of the Bible: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7).

True love comes from a heart transformed

by God.

If you would like to learn more about God’s love, visit our website (faithandfriends.ca), contact us at The Salvation Army Editorial Department, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4 or visit your nearest Salvation Army church.

February 2021

VOLUME 24 NUMBER 2

COMMON GROUND 5 Open Mouth, Insert Foot

When it comes to jumping to conclusions, look—and think— before you leap.

SOMEONE CARES 8 A Passion for Helping Others

Why should anyone support The Salvation Army? Just ask Dieter.

FAITH BUILDERS

8

10 Cinderella Story

New romantic comedy reimagines the classic fable.

Open Mouth ...

... INSERT FOOT P.5

Compassion in Action

ARMY HELPS ZAMBIA P.24

Why Assist the Army?

FEATURES

ASK DIETER P.8

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

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FEBRUARY 2021

In This Together

PLANNING A WEDDING IN A PANDEMIC. P.16

COVER STORY

12

16 22

Cover photo: Rachel Connell

24

The Power of Music

Hayley Francis Cann’s goal is to advocate and educate.

In This Together

Planning a wedding in a pandemic.

Healing After Abuse

A Salvation Army women’s shelter in Montreal helped Janice take back control of her life.

BEYOND BORDERS 24 Compassion in Action

In the heart of rural Zambia, The Salvation Army is providing crucial medical care.

LITE STUFF 28 Eating Healthy With Erin

Sudoku, Quick Quiz, Word Search.

NIFTY THRIFTY 31 Dinner for Two

Create the perfect DIY Valentine’s Day picnic. faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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Faith&Friends

FROM THE EDITOR

For Better or Worse

W

hen the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, Kathy Nguyen was self-isolating, having just returned from a resource trip to Zambia four days before the news broke.

She recalls her fears each time she read a headline discussing the fragility of our health-care system.

“For the first time in my life,” she says, “I saw panic painted across our entire country as we scrambled to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.

“While Canada was running out of resources, what would happen to a country like Zambia, which was already in critical shortage of healthcare supplies and workers?” Kathy continues.

“My thoughts immediately turned to the medical students and professionals I had met in rural Zambia, just a short time before. How would they be affected by the pandemic?”

Despite her concerns, Kathy is grateful to know that there are dedicated people paving the way for a better and healthier future in rural Zambia.

“To them, and to all health-care workers everywhere, I say, ‘Thank you.’ ” Kathy’s story is on page 24.

The Salvation Army can’t do what they do in Zambia without the generous support of people such as you. In this February’s Faith & Friends, you’ll read about Dieter and why he supports the Army. Elsewhere in the issue, you’ll see how one young couple went ahead with their dream wedding despite COVID-19’s constraints.

“For Michael and me, this challenge put love into action and gave us real perspective of what marriage would look like,” writes Brianne Zelinsky-Carew. Read their love story on page 16.

Ken Ramstead 4 • FEBRUARY 2021 I faithandfriends.ca

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 monthly by: The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario, M4H 1P4 International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4P 4EP, England William and Catherine Booth FOUNDERS

Brian Peddle, GENERAL Commissioner Floyd Tidd TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Lt-Colonel John P. Murray SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Geoff Moulton, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ken Ramstead, EDITOR

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Giselle Randall STAFF WRITER Scripture Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are taken from New International Version Contact Us P. (416) 467-3188, F. (416) 422-6217 Websites faithandfriends.ca, salvationist.ca, salvationarmy.ca Email faithandfriends@salvationarmy.ca Subscription for one year: Canada $17 (includes GST/HST); U.S. $22; foreign $24 P. (416) 422-6119 circulation@salvationarmy.ca All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada & Bermuda and cannot be reproduced without permission.

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COMMON GROUND

Photo: elkor/E+ via Getty Images Plus

Faith&Friends

Open Mouth, Insert Foot When it comes to jumping to conclusions, look—and think—before you leap.

J

by Joyce Starr Macias

umping to a conclusion that turns out to be wrong is not unusual. Especially for me. I’ve been known to do it more often than I like to admit.

Jaw Dropper I remember, for instance, the morning at church when I greeted a trim dark-haired man who was

standing next to a gray-haired woman. I wrongly assumed she was his mother.

Reaching out to shake my hand, he said, “It’s very nice to meet you, Joyce.” Fortunately, before I voiced what my mind was thinking, the man added: “And I’d like you to meet my wife, Mary.”

I recovered quickly enough to

faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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Faith&Friends

COMMON GROUND

keep my jaw from hitting the floor, but the event made a deep impression on me. I’ve tried to be more careful ever since, yet it’s a habit I have trouble breaking.

Oops!

I even do it online!

I correspond on Facebook with a rather nice-looking man whom I’ve never met in person. He recently posted a photo of himself next to a handsome red-haired boy.

“Grandson, I assume,” I commented.

Not so, I learned from his answer.

Turns out the boy in the photo was his son, not his grandson. Oops!

My social media faux pas and many others over the years made me see myself as one who finds it only too easy to “open mouth, insert foot!”

Compliment Gone Bad Despite my new determination to avoid another such embarrassing mistake, I goofed yet again just a few days later.

I’d been chatting with a young couple in the hardware aisle of a Home Depot about our various do-it-yourself projects. We talked for several minutes, and I couldn’t help

6 • FEBRUARY 2021 I faithandfriends.ca

noticing that none of their three children got whiny or draped themselves across the shopping cart in frustration. Their patience deserved some praise, I thought. So I gave it.

“Your little girls are so well-behaved. You don’t see that too often these days,” I said.

Nice compliment, right? Wrong.

One of the “girls,” the one with the longest hair, was actually a boy.

Fortunately for me, they all laughed about it, with the mom explaining that people frequently mistake her son for a daughter. I was glad to see the boy was laughing, too.

Some Workout!

Jumping to a conclusion may not be the most dangerous jump in the world, but it can certainly be the most embarrassing.

The only thing that makes me feel a little better about my too-frequent habit is that I’m not alone. Googling the topic will yield a host of interesting comments.

“Our busy minds are forever jumping to conclusions, manufacturing and interpreting signs that aren’t there,” said the Greek philosopher Epictetus.

Writer and film director Paul

“My major form of exercise is jumping to conclusions.” J.A. NANCE Auster warned that, “It often happens that things are other than what they seem, and you can get into trouble by jumping to conclusions.”

One of my favourites is credited to author J.A. Nance: “My major form of exercise is jumping to conclusions.”

Now that’s a workout I can relate to!

Help Available But wait. There is help. And I found it in the Bible, “Don’t jump to conclusions—there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw” (Proverbs 25:8 The Message) is just one of many passages dealing with that bad habit.

But of all of them, a psalm written

by King David really hit home. One

wouldn’t think that a powerful Old Testament king would have to worry about saying the wrong thing! But King David evidently thought it was necessary to watch his words.

Here’s what he wrote: “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3).

If someone like King David thought it was necessary to be careful about what he said, then it seems important for me to do the same.

Maybe I’ll never stop jumping to conclusions but, like David, I don’t have to give voice to any of them.

Best of all, divine help is available.

I can ask God to guard my mouth and watch over my lips so that none of my jumping to the wrong conclusions go public.

(left) Joyce Starr Macias is a retired newspaper reporter who lives in Apache Junction, Arizona, with her husband, Everett, who is a deacon at their church. As a freelance writer, her stories have been published in numerous Christian magazines and short-story collections.

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SOMEONE CARES

Photo: canbedone/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Faith&Friends

A Passion for Helping Others Why should anyone support The Salvation Army? Just ask Dieter.

by Linda Leigh

W

hen 80-year-old Dieter first began supporting The Salvation Army, he did so because he researched the organization and learned that a large percentage of donations went directly to people in need. Then, when he attended his first donor recognition luncheon, his will to give became more personal.

Fateful Event “The topic of the luncheon was key to Dieter’s understanding of what The Salvation Army does,” says Carol Barton, charitable gift advisor in Victoria. “The speeches relating

8 • FEBRUARY 2021 I faithandfriends.ca

to hope and transformation of struggling addicts had a significant impact on him.”

Dieter had a young relative who struggled with addiction and has since designated his donations to youth and adult addictions programs.

“I went to an event and learned first-hand about the work the Army does for people in real need,” says Dieter. “That’s when I committed to making annual donations and have left a large portion of my estate to The Salvation Army.”

A Hand Up “Without the generosity of our donors

and stakeholders, The Salvation Army wouldn’t be able to carry out our vital mission of Giving Hope Today, now and well into the future,” says Carol.

“To know I am helping people makes me feel useful, grateful and humble.” DIETER “Furthermore, gifts to The Salvation Army reflect true compassion and love for our fellow human beings, many of whom struggle with some of

life’s harshest challenges.”

“The dedication of the people at The Salvation Army is incredible,” says Dieter. “It feels good to donate to them because the money is well spent. I always ask where it is urgently needed, and that’s where we put it.”

Having spent years as a schoolteacher and then as a property developer, Dieter now spends his time relaxing and gardening.

“To know I am helping people makes me feel useful, grateful and humble. I’m glad there are trustworthy people such as The Salvation Army who not only give a hand up to those in need but make them even stronger.”

Happy Giver “The dedication of the people at The Salvation Army is incredible,” says Dieter, here with Judith Guichon, then lieutenantgovernor of British Columbia

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FAITH BUILDERS

Photo: Courtesy of Sony Pictures Releasing

A Song in Her Heart Grammynominated pop singer Camila Cabello plays Cinderella in the new movie, a poor orphaned girl who works hard and dreams of a better life

Cinderella Story New romantic comedy reimagines the classic fable.

by Diane Stark

C

inderella, the romantic comedy in theatres this month, is a live-action, musical version of the famous fairy tale.

Grammy-nominated pop singer Camila Cabello plays the title role, a poor orphaned girl who works hard and dreams of a better life. Idina Menzel (Frozen) stars as Vivian, Cinderella’s stepmother. Billy Porter (Kinky Boots) plays the Fab G, Cinderella’s genderless fairy godparent, who swoops in and uses magic to make all of Cinderella’s dreams come true. Nicholas Galitzine plays

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the prince and Pierce Brosnan stars as his father, King Rowan.

Will Cinderella find her “happily ever after” with the prince or will the magic end when the clock strikes midnight?

Don’t Trust to Luck Many of us dream of a better life.

We might wish that we had a fairy godmother who could wave a magic wand and make all of our problems go away. A wave of the wand turns our clunky old car into something new and shiny. Another wave of

Will Cinderella find her “happily ever after” with the prince or will the magic end when the clock strikes midnight? the wand turns our messy home into something that belongs in the pages of a magazine. A third wave transforms our spouse into Prince— or Princess—Charming.

Unfortunately, that’s not the way life works. When things in our lives improve, it’s almost always the result of hard work and perseverance, not luck or magic wands. The story of Cinderella is so famous that it’s used to describe a person or a team who outperforms expectations. If a team who wasn’t expected to do well ends up winning the championship game, we refer to it as a Cinderella story.

But the players on that team don’t attribute their success to luck. They remember the hours they spent practising and preparing for that big game. Where others see a Cinderella story, they see the work they did that helped them achieve their success.

Our Own “Happily Ever After” People might look at a happy marriage the same way. “Oh, they’re just perfect for one another,” we might say. Or “I wish I could find my ‘happily ever after’ like they have.”

But the truth is that successful relationships take work. They require selflessness and forgiveness, and often, giving more to the

relationship than you get back.

Don’t misunderstand. Falling in love is magical. It is the best feeling in this world. But staying in love takes commitment. Because our spouses aren’t always charming.

And neither are we.

Society tells us to give up on relationships when they become challenging. People often use the excuse that they “married the wrong person” or “fell out of love.” But what does the Bible say about love? 1 Peter 4:8 says, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

On this earth, even a “happily ever after” relationship will still have problems. We will still disagree with our partners. They will still occasionally hurt or disappoint us.

And we will let them down, too.

Disagreements and disappointments will always be a part of our relationships because we are all imperfect beings. “Happily ever after” doesn’t require each person to be perfect. We just need to love each other despite our flaws, as God loves us.

And, amazingly, God wants to spend forever with us. We just have to say yes.

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Faith&Friends

FEATURE

The Power of Music HAYLEY FRANCIS CANN’S GOAL IS TO ADVOCATE AND EDUCATE.

Photo: Suzy Lamont Photography

by Ken Ramstead

Sing-along Time Music therapy is more than just a job for Hayley Francis Cann

O

ne of music therapist Hayley Francis Cann’s patients was a woman in long-term care suffering from dementia.

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she’d walked away from religion and had rejected the church,” Hayley recalls.

But as her dementia progressed, Hayley discovered that the woman

“ I believe the best sessions happen when I let God lead.” HAYLEY FRANCIS CANN responded to the Sunday school songs that had resonated with her in her youth.

“Her face would light up and she knew the songs word for word, even in her condition,” Hayley says. “Her family was surprised due to how adamant she’d been against worship and religion. It opened up conversation not only for her, in her state, but with the woman’s family about their own faith.”

Hayley was blessed to be with the family in the room an hour before the woman passed away.

“We were singing the old hymns and it was a beautiful time,” Hayley says. “I strongly believe that God gives us the opportunity to connect with Him in our final moments.

And I have still stayed connected with that family.

“By creating these connections that have such meaning, music therapy has become more than just a job I do.”

“Sign Me Up” A third-generation member of The Salvation Army, Hayley was born in Halifax while her mother was attending university.

Following her studies, Hayley’s mother returned home to Ber-

muda, where six-year-old Hayley discovered her love for music by joining the junior band of her Salvation Army church and playing the trumpet.

“Music came naturally to me, I think, because my family was so involved in The Salvation Army, primarily through the ministry of music,” Hayley says. “My mother was in the band, and both my grandfathers had been in band leadership roles. In some form, everybody in my family has participated in either the songster groups [choirs] or the band at some point in their lives, and I knew that at some point I would end up there as well.”

During her adolescence, Hayley attended various conferences and music camps in Bermuda and Canada, joined the senior band, played at open-air services and mentored young musicians.

Eventually, Hayley decided to leave home and study at Acadia University in Wolfville, N.S. “I knew I wanted to pursue a career in music, but I also knew I did not want to be a performer or a music teacher,” she says. “From my visits with the Army band to hospitals and rest homes, I appreciated the power of music on God’s people, faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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FEATURE

and so when I found that Acadia had a music-therapy program, I said, ‘Yes! Sign me up!’ ” Finding a Calling While at Acadia, Hayley had the opportunity to reflect on and explore her faith through church groups, reading the Bible and journaling.

“I might not have understood it as a child, but by growing up and figuring out my own faith and what my relationship with God looked like, I came to understand how real it was,” she says. “I was able to make a deeper connection with my faith.”

As well, through the praise and worship portions of the Salvation Army services, Hayley saw how intimately people responded and connected with their faith based on 14 • FEBRUARY 2021 I faithandfriends.ca

Shirley Smiles “This photo was taken during my internship a couple of years ago in Perth, Ont. I was working with strokerehabilitation patients. Shirley was struggling with depression, and it was wonderful to see how music brought that kind of emotion out of her. To connect with that joyful side of who she is, outside of what had happened to her, and make her smile, was wonderful for her husband to see, and I’m glad that we were able to capture that on camera”

worship music.

“After studying in university and growing closer to God in my own faith, I had no doubt that music was the calling of my life,” she says.

Making Connections Hayley graduated from Acadia and is now a qualified music therapist situated in the Kingston area of Ontario, where she attends the

Photo: Katrina Pollit

Army’s Kingston Citadel church.

Her work as a music therapist serves individuals in long-term care with dementia, responsive behaviours and depressive symptoms. She also works in the community with children on the autism spectrum and adults recovering from brain injury.

“In every interaction, my aim is to provide a safe and authentic experience where God leads,” she says. “Perhaps my perspective of my purpose in this profession is a little different from that of my colleagues, but I believe the best sessions happen when I let God lead.

This doesn’t mean that I am pushing the Bible on people, but it does mean that if the opportunity arises to share my faith, I absolutely will.

This often allows an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about faith and share in a time of healing worship.”

When asked why she loves doing what she does, Hayley replies, “I’m not doing it for myself. It’s inspiring to connect with other people and to help them along their wellness journeys. I think that’s why I disconnected from the performance side of things—I didn’t think that would be enough for me. Being able to make tangible connections with people—which is so meaningful to our spiritual, emotional and mental health—continues to motivate me to do what I do.”

Mandy’s Mom, the Music Therapist “The idea for a book was planted on my heart right after I finished my internship. The words just flew out of me, so I came to the conclusion that they were not mine and I had to do something with them.

I’m a very visual learner and so I wanted something that told a story with pictures as well as words.

“The book is written rhythmically.

I’m a music therapist and so I wanted other music therapists to use this as a tool for advocacy.

“There’s a dedication at the front of the book to my grandmother, who recently passed away, and the illustrator used a photo of her when she was younger to depict the music therapist. Likewise, she based the little girl, Mandy, on a photo of me as a young girl.” faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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COVER STORY

Photos: Rachel Connell

Faith&Friends

In This Together

PLANNING A WEDDING IN A PANDEMIC.

by Brianne Zelinsky-Carew

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Imagine Me and You, I Do Brianne Zelinsky and Michael Carew celebrate their nuptials

IT WAS THE END OF MARCH, and to many working in Toronto’s downtown, it looked and felt like the end of the world. Within hours, big towers had closed their doors and offices issued work-fromhome notices. For the first time, my commute on the Don Valley Parkway was quiet, devoid of the usual rush-hour traffic. In those surreal moments, I triaged the chaos

that had so quickly tangled my thoughts: I am safe. How do I stay safe? My family is healthy. What can I do to protect them? My job is secure.

What if the working capital dries up?

At least, I have Michael. Oh, no ... our wedding.

Planning a Pandemic Wedding I was set to marry the love of my faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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COVER STORY

The Only One for Me Is You Michael and Brianne met exactly 10 years before their wedding

life and partner of six years on July 17, 2020. Michael Carew and I had met at our church exactly 10 years prior to our wedding date and, after getting engaged the summer before that, found ourselves in the final stretches of planning it when the pandemic hit.

When the Ontario government issued physical-distancing directives, limiting gatherings to five people, I was living with my parents in the north end of Toronto and Michael was downtown at the condo that was soon to be our first home together.

My social bubble became my social lifeline.

Organizing family Zoom calls and sitting around the dinner table quickly took precedence over sourcing a florist, sampling cakes and all the other tasks we had as an engaged couple. By the time our venue officially called off the event and asked us to postpone to 2021, I actually felt relieved.

Suddenly, I had permission to reimagine what the wedding could be like if there were only 10 people present, possibly less.

Writing vows The health crisis, though stressful, 18 • FEBRUARY 2021 I faithandfriends.ca

allowed me to focus my attention on what matters. I took a little more time to think about my wedding vows and a little less time worrying about hosting 130 people for dinner.

As I began writing my vows, I started jotting down the best qualities in my partner, Michael.

When I thought of him, I thought of the years we spent texting each other “good morning” and “good night” while dating long-distance from separate universities. I remembered the letters he wrote me whenever I travelled internationally.

As I closed my eyes, vignettes of graduations, surprise birthdays, funerals, shared Christmas dinners between our families and that memorable Thanksgiving Michael spilt sparkling juice on my grandpa rolled through my mind.

When I thought of Michael, I thought of the magic that was just being together, so I wrote my first vow: “I vow to keep family close, because family together is a beautiful place to be.”

A New Perspective The trending phrase and hashtag “We Are in This Together” took on new meaning as months in isolation

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COVER STORY

Love is enough, God is enough and, with the merger of the two, our small celebration was enough. BRIANNE ZELINSKY-CAREW

passed. Some days, it was the battle call of our resilient country, reminding users on social media that no one is ever alone. On others, it was the only string of words I could find as I comforted a friend who had been laid off work.

And on one particular day, just one month before the wedding, it was my gut reaction when Michael called me after a disheartening doctor’s visit. He had just learned that the blurry spots in his eyes were a symptom of significant scarring related to diabetes complications.

He would need long-term treatments to avoid permanent vision loss.

There were many moments when I retreated to the familiar words from Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you” (English Standard Version). This comforting reminder of God’s presence is reassurance that He chooses to be in this together with us.

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For Michael and me, this challenge put love into action and gave us real perspective of what marriage would look like. We came to fully understand and accept the significance behind saying “I do” and committing a life together.

The Wedding Day When the day of our microwedding arrived, in some ways, I found myself mourning the loss of celebration. Before we started planning this day—even before we were engaged—we agreed that there was something about a summer wedding with family and friends that just felt right. So we designed it with that vibe in mind.

Plans changed dramatically and, though we were disappointed to abandon the party we had imagined, it evolved into something that resembled that little dream.

Our ceremony had a scaledback attendance that started with

So Happy Together Brianne’s father, Salvation Army Major Rick Zelinsky, officiated, with Majors Beverly and David Ivany looking on

people standing two metres apart and ended with a homemade meal in my parents’ backyard. My dad—a Salvation Army pastor—officiated, and my brother and sister-in-law watched via FaceTime from another province.

The details were almost all made by hand with the help of my social bubble. We designed and printed the programs and painted rocks from the river behind my house to use as paperweights that doubled as takehome gifts.

As I stood at the end of the aisle, looking out at those I love most, I reached the very freeing realization that even though this was all it could be, it was also all it ever needed to be.

All You Need Is Love If you were to dub one song as the anthem of this pandemic, what song would you choose? I would have proposed a tie between All By Myself

by Celine Dion and Let Go Of Your Plans by Lukas Nelson. That is, until my dad referenced the Beatles’ All You Need Is Love during his sermon at our wedding. Love is enough, God is enough and, with the merger of the two, our small celebration was enough.

Our pandemic wedding didn’t feel like a less-than version of what we had initially planned; it was the full version. I’ll always remember July 17, 2020, as the perfect day because it was spent in the best way possible with those I love most—together. faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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FEATURE

Healing After Abuse

“I am very grateful to The Salvation Army and to God,” says Janice

A SALVATION ARMY WOMEN’S SHELTER IN MONTREAL HELPED JANICE TAKE BACK CONTROL OF HER LIFE.

by Larisa Chis

J

anice arrived at L’Abri d’espoir more than a year ago. Her journey to The Salvation Army’s Montreal women’s shelter to be where she is today required determination, support and help.

To escape an abusive relationship, Janice moved to Quebec with her daughter as it was the safest place for both at the time. When they arrived in Montreal, her daughter found an apartment, but it was too small for both of them to live together. While Janice didn’t want her daughter to worry about her, she never thought she would be homeless and without a job. She did what she had to in order to make sure her daughter wouldn’t have to live on the streets.

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Being Thankful Janice found out about The Salvation Army’s L’Abri d’espoir in a resource kit provided by Tracom, a non-profit organization that provides crisis intervention services and support.

When she first arrived at L’Abri d’espoir, she was extremely anxious and cried as she was nervous about the future.

“The staff made me feel comfortable in my room, and I immediately felt that everything was going to be OK,” she explains.

On her journey to recovery, Janice faced multiple challenges. The main ones were both physical and psychological as she suffers from fibromyalgia and paralyzing anxiety.

“L’Abri d’espoir provided me with

“ I can’t remember the last time I felt like this.” JANICE

food, a bed, comfortable room, access to proper medication, but most importantly a routine and a calm place,” says Janice. “I could go for a walk in the park, swim in the pool and even ride a bike, things I was very thankful for.”

“I Can Manage” When Janice was asked how she felt today after a year at L’Abri d’espoir, she said she was very content and proud of herself. “I can’t remember the last time I felt like this,” says Janice.

Janice now has a full-time job and is a member of the electricians’ union.

Being part of the union guarantees her hours, full benefits and the potential to work until she is 69 years old. Staying at L’Abri d’espoir also allowed Janice to support her

daughter to get her bachelor’s degree in 2019.

Due to COVID-19, Janice is working full-time, but from her room at L’Abri d’espoir. She says that having a quiet room where she can work whenever she wants while being safe is very important.

L’Abri d’espoir’s long-term program is offered for a maximum stay of two years, so Janice took the next steps in her recovery. With her social worker’s help, Janice applied at La Maison Marguerite, an organization that helps women in need, where she got her own apartment this winter.

She’s proud of what she has accomplished.

“I can manage now,” says Janice.

“I am very grateful to The Salvation Army and to God.”

(left) Larisa Chis is the communications officer at The Salvation Army’s divisional headquarters in Montreal. faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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BEYOND BORDERS

Compassion in Action In the heart of rural Zambia, The Salvation Army is providing crucial medical care.

by Kathy Nguyen

Under the Lens Nachoka Mangani hopes to become a microbiologist to help people

A

s the resource media coordinator of The Salvation Army’s international development department (formerly world missions), I had been asked to participate in a resource trip to Zambia, which our department takes annually to collect photos, videos and stories for the Partners in Mission fundraising campaign. This year, I went with videographer Aaron Bowes, photographer Mark Yan, and our director, Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray.

The Pulse of Chikankata As we ventured out of Lusaka, the

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nation’s capital, we were in for a long five-hour car ride of more than 100 kilometres into rocky and rural terrain. The farther away we drove from the capital, the closer we got to Chikankata, a land many refer to as “the heart of rural Zambia.”

The Salvation Army has been serving this community since 1945.

When a local headman, Charlie Chikankata, heard of The Salvation Army’s meaningful work in Zimbabwe, he offered the organization a portion of his land, with the condition that it would be used to build an institution that provided education

Photos: Mark Yan

and health services for his people. In doing so, The Salvation Army Chikankata Mission was born.

The mission is one of The Salvation Army’s cornerstones in providing quality health and nursing care to those who need it most. It is home to the Chikankata Mission Hospital, the College of Nursing and Midwifery, and the College of Biomedical Sciences. Before these establishments were built, many had never known genuine medicine or surgery.

With the Zambian government only spending about five percent of its total gross domestic product on health care, the country continuously struggles with inadequate support, infrastructure and supplies. These challenges are inten-

sified in rural areas, where resources are already scarce.

As a result, The Salvation Army Chikankata Mission has become the beating heart of this community.

Empowering the Youth Upon arrival, our first stops were at the Chikankata College of Nursing and Midwifery and the Chikankata College of Biomedical Sciences, both Salvation Army schools situated just a few short kilometres away from each other.

As Zambia grapples with a shortage of health-care workers, the Army is making a difference by educating the youth and providing quality education to aspiring healthcare practitioners.

Here to Help Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray (right) with some of the staff at the Chikankata Mission Hospital

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BEYOND BORDERS

“These institutions are alleviating the shortage of human resources countrywide,” says Portipher Pilingana, principal of the College of Biomedical Sciences. “We have more than 200 students enrolled and have maintained a 100-percent graduation rate for the past three years.”

While meeting some of the hardworking and devoted students, it was clear that they all shared a passion for helping others and making

Serving the Helpless Upon graduation, many of the students find themselves working at The Salvation Army Chikankata Mission Hospital, another landmark in the community.

This 200-bed facility is the only hospital in the region and provides primary and curative health services, including maternal, infant and child health care, surgical operations, HIV-AIDS treatments, cancer

“I wanted to become a nurse so I could serve society.” DAVID NGONGOLO an impact.

“I wanted to become a nurse so I could serve society,” says David Ngongolo, a fourth-year student at the College of Nursing and Midwifery. “Health care in Zambia needs to be more accessible; I want to give back to my country, and I plan on doing that by serving our hospitals.”

Nachoka Mangani, a third-year student at the College of Biomedical Sciences, told me, “I hope to become a microbiologist to help people. And because of the lessons I am learning through The Salvation Army, I am on the pathway to achieving this dream.”

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screenings and physiotherapy.

Dr. Gamaliel Misago is one of four doctors working at this hospital and the acting head of clinical care.

He’s been serving at this hospital for more than 19 years, which is rare for doctors in Zambia.

“A lot of doctors come and go,” he says. “They don’t stay in one hospital for long, and most would prefer to work in cities.”

But Dr. Gamaliel felt called to work in Chikankata Mission Hospital because he knows what it’s like to feel helpless and hopeless during the worst of times.

“I wanted to become a doctor

Health-Care Heroes (clockwise from top left) Dr. Gamaliel Misago helps those who have no one to turn to; David Ngongolo wants to give back to his country; and students from biomedical school walk to class

after my sister died from measles,” he told me. “At the time, we were living in a remote area where there were no doctors to attend to her. I’ve been working in Chikankata for so long because I wanted to help those who have no one to turn to.”

These words embody the soul of The Salvation Army and the Chikankata Mission.

The Light of God When I look back on my time in Zambia, the trip to Chikankata is one of my fondest memories. The Chikankata missions are a prime example of how The Salvation Army works to

meet the greatest need in the most vulnerable communities, and this was evident when interacting with the students and health-care workers.

While there are significant cracks in Zambia’s health-care system, cracks always make room for light— and that light comes in the form of people like David, Nachoka and Dr. Gamaliel. Their work is rooted in compassion and faith, and it’s leaders such as them that embody the light of God in times of crisis.

To contribute to health-care initiatives overseas, please visit SalvationArmy.ca/giftsofhope.

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Faith&Friends

LITE STUFF

Eating Healthy With Erin HOMEMADE THIN-CRUST PIZZA TIME 1 hr 15 min MAKES 4 servings SERVE WITH fresh green salad

1. In small mixing bowl, place water, instant yeast and sugar. Let stand 250 ml (1 cup) warm water for 5 minutes.

5 ml (1 tsp) instant yeast 2. In separate large bowl, combine 5 ml (1 tsp) sugar flour and salt. Slowly pour in wet 500 ml (2 cups) all-purpose mixture a little at a time and mix flour with your hands. Remove from 5 ml (1 tsp) salt bowl and knead on a floured 5 ml (1 tsp) olive oil surface. Add additional flour if it is still sticky. Rub the outside with 45 ml (3 tbsp) all-purpose olive oil and knead it in. flour (if needed) 3. Place in lightly oiled bowl and Topping cover with clean cloth. Let dough 60 ml (¼ cup) pizza sauce rise for 30 minutes.

1 red pepper 4. Remove from bowl and cut in half.

2 cloves of garlic Using rolling pin, roll dough on lightly floured surface until thin. It 250 ml (1 cup) cherry will make two 30 cm (12 in.) pizzas. tomatoes 60 ml (¼ cup) goat cheese 5. Lightly oil baking or pizza pan and set the oven to 240 C (475 F).

60 ml (¼ cup) fresh basil 6. Lightly sauce pizza crusts and top with ingredients.

7. Place in preheated oven and cook for 10 minutes. Add fresh basil, rotate the pan and return to oven.

8. Cook an additional 3-5 minutes or until edges are crisp.

Recipe photos: Erin Stanley

Pizza Dough

CREAMY CHOCOLATE-BANANA SMOOTHIE TIME 5 min MAKES 2 servings SERVE WITH oatmeal

250 ml (1 cup) milk of choice 4 ice cubes 1 banana ½ small avocado 3 pitted dates 30 ml (2 tbsp) cocoa powder

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1. Blend all ingredients together for 30 seconds or until smooth.

More Than a Treat?

NFL’s Josh McCown

ARMY CARING P.5 OLDER AND BETTER P.10

Army’s Ellen Osler Home

A SAFE PLACE P.26

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

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JANUARY 2021

A SALVATION ARMY FACILITY HELPED JASON BASS-MELDRUM FIND HIS PASSION P.16

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Sudoku Puzzle

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 × 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.

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QUICK QUIZ 1. What dinosaur’s name means “tyrant lizard king”?

2. In the nursery rhyme, where did the Itsy Bitsy Spider go first?

3. Is zucchini technically a fruit or a vegetable?

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© www.kevinfrank.net

HEAVEN’S LOVE THRIFT SHOP by Kevin Frank

Answers on next page.

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LITE STUFF

Word Search Lovebirds A T L A N T I C P U F F I N P H H P R O K O B O E L G A E D L A B O U K E R I S E N R N I T R E I C A U M I K R T P R R I E O A U N H I M S M N C A T R M A I B H C T I C L R E I G E P I E U M V V O E L G N E P F N F P J W Y D O X E D R U A N P W I G I D F A A A U B B N E V L F O W N B S O L K R P R U Y O S Y Y B X L C I H O A E C E N Z M E O E E A T K H R E W M L T T I Z A G O K W E J A Q D R O I A I R N A G I G R I O T E E R A L N N C E G R P P A U S O R I U R T L G I L L D D I D D T U S Z R H L G A O D O B O E E D A K C I H C A W B W R R O R V C S A N D P I P E R P U S T A N A E E K R A L W O D A E M S M L C S W M Z M O C K I N G B I R D ARCTIC LOON ATLANTIC PUFFIN BALD EAGLE BERMUDA PETREL BLUE JAY BUZZARD CANADA GOOSE CARDINAL CEDAR WAXWING CHICKADEE FALCON FLAMINGO GREAT BLUE HERON

HOUSE FINCH HUMMINGBIRD KINGFISHER KITTIWAKE LONGTAIL MAGPIE MEADOWLARK MOCKINGBIRD MOURNING DOVE OSPREY PAINTED BUNTING PARROT PELICAN

PIGEON RAVEN ROBIN SANDPIPER SPARROW SWALLOW TURKEY VULTURE WARBLER WHITE-EYED VIREO WOODPECKER

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Quick Quiz Answers: 1. Tyrannosaurus rex; 2. up the waterspout; 3. fruit.

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Faith&Friends

NIFTY THRIFTY

Dinner for Two Create the perfect DIY Valentine’s Day picnic.

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our local Salvation Army thrift store can help you prepare a romantic picnic banquet for you and your sweetheart, whether you plan for an indoor or outdoor soirée.

Love-infused napkins Score some plain napkins, then stencil words of love on them: “his” and “hers,” “be mine,” etc.

Use paint, Sharpies or embroider your gushy words.

Basket Every romantic rendezvous starts with the ideal basket for transporting your picnic feast. Source one at your local Salvation Army thrift store. Add some love to it by embellishing it with fabric or ribbon. You can even paint it if you’re feeling super-inspired.

Mason jars filled with sweets Woo your sweetheart with Mason jars or other glassware filled with your sweetie’s favourite treats. Add some extra bling to the Mason jars with heart-inspired accents.

Upcycled sheet or embroidered blanket Repurpose or restyle a secondhand find for your picnic blanket. You can embroider it or use fabric paint to give it some pizzazz.

Cake stand Create a cute cake stand by repurposing a candle holder and attaching it to a thrifted plate. Strong adhesive can be used to glue them together.

Once the glue dries, add your Valentine’s favourite treat to the cake plate.

(left) Denise Corcoran (a.k.a. Thrifty By Design) is an author, upcycler, community builder and workshop facilitator based in North Vancouver. She shares her enthusiasm for crafting and upcycling by facilitating “Crafternoons” throughout Vancouver. She is also a creative expert for The Salvation Army’s thrift stores.

Find a thrift store near you at thriftstore.ca.

faithandfriends.ca I FEBRUARY 2021

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