Editorial note

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 1 2021

Editorial Note

As we publish this issue the world is still impacted by COVID19,with a number of different strains now presenting themselves. These outbreaks have negatively impacted the area of Salvation Army history research with some archives closed or visiting restricted. We again pause to think of the people who have been adversely affected by the virus and those who continue to work to keep us all safe. Despite setbacks, exciting work has continued in Army history with the publication of several books relating to Army history, historical meetings moving online, and continued writing of papers.

As with other issues of the journal,the papers are presented in two sections: the first focusing on areas of Salvation Army history in New Zealand, and; the second section is a collection of papers from a variety of countries. Between the two sections is housed information to assist researchers and others interested in aspects of Salvation Army history. This issue will be the first in the history of AJSAH to publish a bilingual paper. We hope this will continue. As The Salvation Army is an international movement and ministers in many languages we feel it is important to include such representations.

To commence the collection of papers with a New Zealand focus, Major Kingsley Sampson concludes his investigation into The Salvation Army Students’ Fellowship (SASF) in New Zealand. With the use of primary sources, he outlines the treks and conferences organised by the group, as well as the reestablishment and ultimate demise of the fellowship.

In the second paper, Margaret Thompson and Sampson outline the history of the New Zealand youth magazine organised by the SASF. With an analysis of its contents and investigation of other sources, the paper shows how the publication engaged with the social and religious context of the time.

The third paper with a focus on New Zealand is by Lt.-Col. William (Bill) Allott. Allott, by uncovering biographical information on the Brownlie sisters gives deeper insight into the early social work of The Salvation Army in that country.

Raewyn Hendy presents the final paper in this first section. Using a feminist ideology, Hendy investigates primary and secondary sources to outline the motivation for women to go to the mission field. Opportunities they received and difficulties experienced are compared with women officers who remained in their home territory. Several specific women Army officers who served overseas are highlighted throughout Hendy’s paper.

Like earlier issues of the AJSAH, the middle section of the journal houses information that will be of interest to researchers or readers of Salvation Army history. Firstly, we are introduced to two Salvation Army historians and their writings: Major Kingsley Sampson, an author who has contributed to Salvation Army history literature through his writing, researching, and editing abilities, and Professor Emeritus R. David Rightmire, an academic who has contributed to Salvation Army history and theological studies. Secondly, there are several advertisements for resources, books, and events, all relating to Salvation Army history. We hope these will assist you in your understanding and research. Please note that the journal receives no finances from these advertisements. Thirdly, four book reviews are presented, one on The Salvation Army at the movies by Kingsley Sampson; two by Garth R. Hentzschel, Under two flags and Preaching a disturbing gospel; and Major David Woodbury’s review of Catherine Booth – From timidity to boldness. Finally, for this section, Hayley Jean Reeves outlines how Salvation Army family history led her to write a screenplay, Legacy that has now won international awards.

To commence the final section of papers, Garth R. Hentzschel gives an historical biography on an Australian Salvationist artist, George Holloway and has uncovered some of Holloway’s works.

In the second paper, Colonel Richard Munn writes about the evangelical endeavours of his notable great-grandfather Adjutant Harry Munn. The impact of Harry Munn’s ministry on his own time and on contempory lives is also discussed.

The final paper in this section appears in both English and its original language, French. Marc Muller examines the attitudes of, and the work carried out by French Salvationists during World War One.

As in other issues, there are several requests for assistance with research into specific areas of Army history. We give thanks to the support of Professor R. G. Moyles for the assistance he has given the journal. Also please let us know if there are any subjects you are researching or other comments via a letter to the editor.

I would like to thank the authors of each paper, the translators, the people who wrote letters to the journal and the peer review and editorial group who work hard to ensure accuracy and clarity in all the papers published. We know you will enjoy this issue. Stay safe in the strange COVID-19 times. Blessings, Garth R. Hentzschel