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The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory May 2011 Volume 15 Issue 5

RED SHIELD APPEAL

IT’S PERSONAL JEFF KNOWS WHAT IT’S LIKE TO GIVE AND RECEIVE

OUT OF AFRICA HAWKES’ MINISTRY IN ZIMBABWE

STAMP OF APPROVAL

PETER’S GOT HIS

PASSION LICKED

Stars light up launch at Salvos centre ARTICLES BY Commissioner James Condon | Lieut-Colonel Doug Clarke | Major Bruce Domrow | Major Barbara Sampson | Major Paul Moulds

Salvos Stores offer great finds like one-off vintage pieces and incredible fabrics - and it’s satisfying to know that every purchase helps your community by providing;

Meals for the hungry Beds for the homeless Assistance in finding employment Refuge to victims of abuse

Visit www.salvos.org.au/stores for more information or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)

Appeal director motivated by personal experience

“T

he best teacher is experience”, so the famous quotes goes. If that is true, then Major Jeff Winterburn has the ideal qualifications to lead the annual Red Shield Appeal for The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory.

Jeff, you see, has experienced the appeal as both a giver and receiver of its benefits.

In our main feature article this month, Major Winterburn talks openly about the dark days that followed the temporary resignation of both he and his wife, Sue, from Salvation Army officership in the late-1990s.

Out of work and with two children to care for, times were tough for the family. Christmas was looking bleak, and then The Salvation Army turned up at the Winterburn home with a huge parcel of toys and food. Jeff knew that money raised during a Red Shield Appeal collection probably helped pay for the assistance. He’s never forgotten.

More than a decade later and Jeff, once again a Salvation Army officer, is the Australia Eastern Territory Appeals Director (External). As he coordinates the massive campaign that culminates in Doorknock Weekend on 28-29 May, he makes a point of daily remembering how The Salvation Army – and in particular money raised through the Red Shield Appeal – at one time in his life provided much-needed help for his family.

He wants Salvos to know that giving just a few hours of

Contents The Salvation Army WILLIAM BOOTH, Founder

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James Condon, Commissioner Territorial Commander

That reality in itself should be motivation enough for Salvationists to continue to embrace the Red Shield Appeal. But more than that, as Christians we are also called by God to do whatever we can to help those in need.

Scripture is very clear in this teaching: a quick Google search for “What does the Bible say about helping others” will produce dozens of related Bible verses.

This compelling need to care for others is probably summed up best, however, by John 15:12: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (New King James Version).

It’s as simple as that: our motivation for all that we do should be – as Jesus himself so vividly portrayed – love. Jeff Winterburn is motivated to do what he does, by love.

The Red Shield Appeal is – at least publicly – first and foremost a fundraiser for The Salvation Army’s vast network of social and community services. But it’s also your chance to “love” the community in which you live.

COV E R

Scott Simpson Managing Editor

STORY

12-13 GLITTERING OASIS Actor Cate Blanchett and rock legend Peter Garrett light up launch at Salvos centre. By Esther Pinn

15 STRAIGHT OUT OF AFRICA Zimbabwe presents a challenging ministry for Captains David and Kim Hawke 18-19 PETER’S GOT HIS PASSION LICKED Major Peter Sutcliffe’s hobby gets stamp of approval

Peter Sutcliffe, Major Communications Director

20-21 Q&A WITH CAPTAIN MAL DAVIES The Salvation Army’s National Editor-In-Chief talks to Scott Simpson about the power and ministry of the written word

Scott Simpson Managing Editor Graphic design: James Gardner, Kem Pobjie

22-23 MAKING AN IMPACT AT MOREE The Salvation Army adopts a creative approach to Indigenous ministry. By Simone Worthing

Cover photo: Shairon Paterson

Editorial and correspondence: Address: PO Box A435 Sydney South NSW 1235 Phone: (02) 9266 9690 www.salvos.org.au Email: eastern.editorial @aue.salvationarmy.org

Driven by love

8-10 DOORKNOCK HAS PERSONAL APPEAL FOR JEFF Major Jeff Winterburn is the perfect candidate, says Bill Simpson, to lead the Red Shield Appeal

Linda Bond, General

Pipeline is a publication of the Communications Team

your time to the Red Shield Appeal can make a lifetime of difference to an individual or family.

FEATU R ES

International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria street London EC4P 4EP

Australia Eastern Territory 140 Elizabeth Street Sydney NSW 2000

Editoria l

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24 MALCOLM THRIVES IN BUILDING TRADE Malcolm Beeson has swapped property construction for building a men’s ministry

R EGULA RS 3 EDITORIAL

Published for: The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory

by Commissioner James Condon.

Printed by: SOS Print + Media Group 65 Burrows Rd, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia Print Post Approved PP236902/00023

5 TC@PIPELINE 14 HOW TO DO JUSTICE 17 HOLY HABITS 26-27 WHAT WOULD JESUS VIEW? 28-29 MISSION PRIORITIES UPDATE

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30-41 COALFACE NEWS 42-43 PROMOTED TO GLORY

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A moment in history

A

report in the UK War Cry of 1 January 1887 said that when he was asked “Why do you have women for leaders?”, General William Booth replied: “Because they often lead better than the men.”

This is possibly the origin of the well-known but, apparently, misquoted phrase “My best men are women”, which was used by Captain Norman Armistead in the UK War Cry of 4 April 1964 and later used as a book title by Commissioner Flora Larsson in 1974.

Well, here are two of our best women and finest Salvation Army

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officers: General Linda Bond and General Eva Burrows (Ret).

This photo, taken by Pipeline photographer Shairon Paterson at the Farewell Salute for General Bond at Sydney Congress Hall in March, is, according to General Burrows, a historic moment.

It is, she says, the only time two woman Generals have been photographed together.

The only other woman to hold the position of world leader of The Salvation Army, General Evangeline Booth, was promoted to glory the same year that General Burrows

entered The Salvation Army Training College as a cadet.

General Burrows has been presented with a framed version of this photo. She says that she prays for General Bond every morning during her devotions and likes to have the photo on her desk nearby.

By printing this photo, Pipeline is giving you the opportunity to do likewise.

You might like to cut it out and keep it with your prayer diary as a daily reminder to remember General Bond – and General Burrows also – before the Lord.

Lord, renew your deeds in our day The Old Testament prayer of the prophet Habakkuk, says Commissioner JAMES CONDON, remains powerful and relevant for The Salvation Army in the 21st century

W

hen I received word of our appointment home to be the territorial leaders of the Australia Eastern Territory, my first thought was, “who am I?”. And then I remembered that the great leader Moses said the very same thing, “who am I that I should lead these people?”.

I feel privileged, honoured and blessed for Jan and I to be given this appointment at this time. A Salvation Army officer mentioned to me that I was only the fourth Australian to be appointed as leader of this territory - what an honour!

When the Army’s Chief Of The Staff advised us our new roles I said to him that nothing is wasted, referring to the short appointment (five months) we have just served at International Headquarters in London. However, I have returned home with greater wisdom and a new world view of this wonderful Salvation Army to which we belong and that God is using around the world.

I want to acknowledge the inspirational leadership given to the Australia Eastern Territory by then-Commissioner Linda Bond during her term, and assure you that I am totally committed to building on her great work.

A few days before heading home from London I spent some time sitting in a park near our home. I wanted to engage with God in prayer and, particularly, seek to listen to the Lord regarding my term as Territorial Commander. God has been speaking to me quite clearly about what he wants of me during my time in leadership.

God is sovereign and at times we don’t understand the reason for decisions or why things turn out as they do. But I trust the sovereign God who is infinitely wise.

Amazing history

We are grateful for the warmth of the welcome we have been given on returning home and now look forward to once again getting on with the mission and encouraging the “troops”.

At our Queensland state welcome in Brisbane last month, I shared with those gathered the verse God gave me from Habakkuk chapter 3 verse 2: “Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known.”

The Salvation Army has an amazing history, particularly in its early days of soul saving, lives transformed and ministry

to the poor and marginalised, expressed in William Booth’s book In Darkest England and the Way Out. In taking the words of Habakkuk, “renew them in our day”, I then shared with the Brisbane congregation what I believe it means to be The Salvation Army in the 21st century. I want to share the main points with you all. We need to be: A praying Army - J Edwin Orr said, “whenever God is ready to do something new with his people, he always sets them praying”; A worshipping Army in Spirit and in truth - our worship needs to be God-focused and inspiring; An Army of the Word - when God’s Spirit is at work there’s a tremendous appetite for the Word; Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in your richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God”; An Army of holiness – my prayer is “renew us in holiness so that it is not just a doctrine or words on a table runner but a territory marked by prayer and holiness”; A soul-saving Army – our vision is to be an Army moving forward into the world of the hurting, broken, lonely, dispossessed and lost, reaching them by all means with the transforming message of Jesus, bringing freedom, hope and life; An Army serving suffering humanity – reaching into the dark places as we move forward as One Army with One Mission; Habakkuk’s prayer - “Renew them in our day, in our time make them known” is just as relevant for The Salvation Army in the 21st century.

We are in this together and under God let us continue to move forward.

Commissioner James Condon is Territorial Commander of the Australia Eastern Territory

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How much can For more than a century The Salvation Army has based its structure on military terminology, however Major BRUCE DOMROW questions whether this is slowly alienating a 21stcentury culture increasingly antagonistic to references of war

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T

he Salvation Army, as its name indicates, operates within a framework heavily influenced by military terminology. Words like soldier, officer, corps, division and headquarters continue to be used extensively, which highlights the extent of the military metaphor.

The question I wish to address in this article is this: When it comes to communicating the good news of the gospel in society in 2011, are military metaphors positive and helpful, or are they negative and unhelpful?

I think it all depends on how people interpret or understand military terminology.

The Salvation Army believes it is engaged in a war against all that is evil, discriminating, marginalising, destructive, and the like, in society. Or, as the Australian Warcry so helpfully puts it (in relation to the name of the magazine): “The name refers to our ‘war’ against evil forces and influences in the world; we raise a ‘warcry’ in opposition to anything that crushes the human spirit.”

If this is how people interpret the military metaphor, then that can only be a positive and helpful understanding.

However, if people do not attach the same meaning as does The Salvation Army, then this could easily bring about a negative and unhelpful experience. For instance, how good is the good news if the cultural forms (military metaphors) it is delivered through invoke in some people meanings associated with hurt, fear, violence, war or terror?

Integrity

Growing Saints

we sell the metaphor?

Effective communication

The problem is not with the metaphor itself, because metaphors are basically neutral. The problem lies with the fact that meanings cannot be communicated – only messages can be communicated.

Meanings are built and developed in the head, the mind and the cognitive processes of individuals. This means that while we, The Salvation Army, may attach certain meanings to the military metaphors, if

“It’s all about making sense to those to whom we are trying to communicate the gospel.” that is not the same meaning that those to whom we are communicating the gospel attach to them, then we have not communicated anything. More to the point, we may have communicated something entirely different, even worse, perhaps something offensive.

Therefore, it does not matter what

meaning The Salvation Army attaches to the metaphor, it is the meaning that other people attach to it that will make or break what has been communicated.

It is what people think, and the meaning they build in their head, when they see the uniforms, the buildings, the branding and when they hear the words, that really matters. If this aligns with what The Salvation Army thinks about the military metaphors then that is helpful.

If not, then I think you know what the answer is.

So the question remains: In a society that is largely post-lineal, post-literate, post-logical, post-liberal, post-modern, post-Christendom and post-military, how much can we sell the metaphor?

It appears that the leadership of The Salvation Army does recognise that there are issues relating to the interpretation of some of the military metaphors. This is indicated in a November 2008 Officer to Officer letter which states that the word “Corps”, “... is not generally understood by the community”.

It seems to me though, from 30-plus years of observation, that it is highly unlikely that The Salvation Army will decommission (another military metaphor) all of its military terminology.

This may well be a shame because, the way I see it, if The Salvation Army simply continues to communicate the good news of the gospel to those who already think like we do, then I think that resource will become decreasingly smaller until perhaps there is no one left to hear us, and that would be a tragedy.

Making sense

There will, no doubt, be those who dismiss this article as the uninformed ramblings of a misguided officer. That is fine, everyone has the right to reject or accept any particular concept or idea.

There is something, though, which no-one can deny, and that is for many people in society today anything to do with war, the armed forces, the military and the like, is an anathema. Yet are not these people among those to whom Christ calls us to share the good news of the gospel? How, then, will they hear?

Perhaps what is needed is the contextualisation of the military metaphors into forms that make sense to the community, each expression The Salvation Army is engaged with?

It’s all about making sense to those to whom we are trying to communicate the gospel. As a letter to the editor of the United Kingdom Salvationist (24 January 2009) asks: “... I wonder about retaining the traditional title The Warcry. Does this symbolism still make sense to the wider public?”

I wonder as well.

Major Bruce Domrow is The Salvation Army’s Corps Officer at Campsie in Sydney

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Photo: Shairon Paterson

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Doorknock has

personal appeal

Jeff

for

As preparations for this year’s Red Shield Appeal get into full swing, Major Jeff Winterburn is at the centre of the massive organisational effort. He’s the ‘main man’ in his role as The Salvation Army’s Appeals Director (External) for its Australia Eastern Territory. If personal motivation is a key ingredient to ensuring the success of the annual appeal then, as BILL SIMPSON finds out, Jeff is an inspired choice to head the campaign

“I thought about the times I, as a Salvation Army officer, had given to needy people.

Now, I was needy and The Salvation Army was helping me ... it was a humbling experience.”

W

hen a caring Salvation Army captain called on a financially and emotionally struggling Jeff Winterburn with food and toys for his family, it brought tears – and a change of heart and mind.

It was Christmas 1997.

Jeff and wife Sue (pictured left) and their five-year-old daughter were living in temporary accommodation. They had little money, no jobs or prospects and scant food. The Winterburns had just resigned as Salvation Army officers after 10 years service.

Personal issues had weighed heavily.

Their marriage had been under enormous strain. It seemed as though they were alone – until the captain called!

“We were serving in Red Shield Defence Services in Brisbane after corps appointments at Wellington, Cabramatta, Unanderra [later Berkeley] and Centenary, and personal issues made it impossible to continue,” Jeff says.

“We couldn’t give 100 per cent. It was best that we resigned and tried to get things back together.”

The family moved to Wollongong. Jeff had been hopeful of full-time work in the funeral industry. It didn’t eventuate.

“We had no finances, no work and no rental prospects because we didn’t have a rental history. Eventually, we were able to find temporary accommodation. It was late 1997.

“Kelvin Pethybridge [now Major]

was the corps officer at Wollongong.

Somehow, he found out we were in the area. He brought us some food vouchers. We started to attend the Wollongong Corps.

“But it was at Christmas that it really hit me. Kelvin arrived at our place and told me to come outside and help him.

He had a car boot full of food and toys.

“I can tell you that what Kelvin did for me and my family brought tears. I will never forget Kelvin’s kindness.

“I thought about the times I, as a Salvation Army officer, had given to needy people.

“Now, I was needy and The Salvation Army, through Kelvin, was helping me.

I was now the one receiving. We were on the other side of the table.

“It was a humbling experience and it taught me a great lesson.”

The lesson was that money raised during a Red Shield Appeal collection probably helped pay for the assistance he and his family received. He has never complained about Red Shield Appeal collecting since that day.

“You don’t have to sell the Red Shield Appeal to me,” he says.

“For a lot of people in the Army, Red Shield collecting is not their favourite thing. It’s seen as a bit of a burden; a task.

“As an Army corps officer, I probably saw it like that, too. We’re all busy people and the Red Shield Appeal seems to be another encroaching thing on our busy program. >>>

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“People are happy when it’s over.”

In early 1998, Kelvin Pethybridge’s caring continued. He let Jeff Winterburn know of a job going in The Salvation Army’s divisional public relations office at Parramatta. Jeff applied and was successful.

Sue found work as a data entry clerk.

The family moved to Sydney – and their own home.

Jeff and Sue returned to officership in 2000. Today, Jeff is a Major and responsible for the conduct of the Red Shield Appeal throughout the entire Australia Eastern Territory.

“The calling [to officership] we’d had years ago never left us. We never completely shut the door. We had to work on our issues. I supposed we were burnt out, but there were personal things we had to deal with from the past, as well.”

“You just never know when you might be in need.”

When they returned to officership, they were appointed to manage a men’s hostel in Newcastle, then to Public Relations work in Newcastle, Canberra and New Zealand before their current appointment in January 2010.

“It was in PR that I saw the bigger Salvation Army picture. I had seen myself and my circumstances and how people had helped,” says Jeff.

“Now, in PR, I was seeing clearly the guy sleeping on the side of the road, the beaten wife and kids, the families without food; that sort of thing.

“I knew I had survived because of what The Salvation Army could do through Red Shield Appeal funds and, at last, I could see how others also could be helped.

“We only need to look at the support we get from the general public. They’re busy, too, but they give freely of their money and their time to help us.

“I’ve heard from business people that

Majors Jeff and Sue Winterburn have personal experience of what it means to be helped by The Salvation Army. Photo: Shairon Paterson

they help us because they say they can’t do what the Salvos do. They say that they can’t pick up people from the gutters. But they have confidence that we can. So, they do what they can to make it possible for us to do what we do.

“You just never know when you might be in need. One minute, you might have double income, three cars in the garage, etc, and next minute lose everything and become one of those in need like I was.

“Some of our Army people question what life is left in the Red Shield Appeal doorknock. I think there’s a lot of life left,

yet. While ever there’s a need, the Salvos need to be there.”

On Sunday 29 May, Jeff and Sue Winterburn will be doorknocking to raise funds for the Red Shield Appeal. They haven’t forgotten Christmas 1997. 

Bill Simpson is a writer for Pipeline and supplements

Dave’s family wasn’t always homeless.

When Dave’s wife died in childbirth, he was left to raise three children on his own. He lost his love, his corporate job and his home. But when he found the Salvos, he found shelter, financial assistance and counselling for his grief. We didn’t see a homeless man, we saw a father who needed our help.

Now we need yours. 25,000 families are homeless every night in Australia. Please don’t wait for the doorknock. We need your donation now.

13 SALVOS (13 72 58) salvationarmy.org.au

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Police boss charges business leaders to dig deep

By SCOTT SIMPSON

N

SW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione made a passionate plea for the corporate sector to dig deep and generously support The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal during the official launch of the annual fundraising campaign in Sydney last month.

Commissioner Scipione was the guest speaker at the launch which attracted more than 500 business and community leaders to The Four Seasons Hotel in the city. Among the guests were former Federal Opposition leader and now Opposition spokesman for Communications and Broadband Malcolm Turnbull and his wife and former City of Sydney Red Shield Appeal chair Lucy Turnbull, Federal MP Bronwyn Bishop, and entrepreneur Dick Smith. Former Australian rugby captain Nick FarrJones, now a member of the Sydney Red Shield Appeal committee, compered the event. Others to attend included City of Sydney Appeal Committee Chairman Roger Massy-Greene and Salvation Army Territorial Advisory Board Chairman Roger Corbett.

“You just keep doing it … I don’t know how but you do,” said Commissioner Scipione of the Army’s work in helping others.

“All soldiers need sustenance,” he continued.

“The Salvos aren’t the best

‘nourished’ among us but they deserve to be.

“Every day of the year they show an extraordinary generosity to the community. I implore you [business and community leaders] to match that generosity this year during the Red Shield Appeal.”

The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territorial Director for Mission – Social, Major Paul Moulds, interviewed Envoys Simon and Natalie Steele about the valuable ministry they provide as the Army’s Flying Padres, based out of Mt Isa. Bee, a young woman who came through the Surry Hills centre of the Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network, then spoke movingly of how her life had been transformed from living on the streets to now being a passionate advocate for youth homelessness. The Salvation Army, she said, has been at the centre of that transformation.

Unprecedented demand

The Salvation Army, as it continues to respond to an unprecedented series of natural disasters both in Australia and overseas this year, more than ever will be relying on people to reach into their pockets and give to the Red Shield Appeal.

The Army has set a national target of $10 million for the 28-29 May doorknock appeal to maintain services in the year ahead. The national target for the overall Red Shield Appeal, which includes a business appeal and direct mail

At the launch were (from left) Major John Rees, Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, Commissioner James Condon, City of Sydney Appeal Committee Chairman Roger Massy-Greene, and Flying Padres Envoys Simon and Natalie Steele.

Former Wallaby captain Nick Farr-Jones was the compere for the launch. Photos: Shairon Paterson

campaign, is $80 million. In the Army’s Australia Eastern Territory the goal is $39 million, with a doorknock target of $5.5 million.

“A run of unprecedented natural disasters over the first few months of this year has placed tremendous demand on Salvation Army frontline services, particularly in Queensland,” said Australia Eastern Territory Appeals Director (External), Major Jeff Winterburn.

“This has involved feeding floodaffected individuals and families, helping with the clean-up and now assisting people with their practical and emotional needs through the recovery process ...

“Meanwhile, the demands upon our social and community services are growing, with the increasing cost of living impacting many low-income families and individuals. More than ever, we need the support of the community to help fund our dayto-day social programs which must continue alongside our extensive flood and cyclone response effort.

“These programs include support for families in need, accommodation for the homeless, addiction recovery support, youth programs, rural chaplaincy, telephone counselling, and suicide prevention and bereavement programs.”

To give to the Red Shield Appeal, please call 13 SALVOS, visit salvos. org.au, donate at any Westpac branch, or post your cheque to PO Box 9888 in your capital city. pipeline 05/2011 11

. . Stars play support act to

By ESTHER PINN

T

he stars came out in support of The Salvation Army’s fight against youth homelessness when Academy Award-winning actress Cate Blanchett and Australian rock legend Peter Garrett launched initiatives at the Oasis centre in Sydney.

Held on Youth Homeless Matters Day (6 April), as part of National Youth Week, Blanchett launched the Oasis Homeless Short Film Competition, one of three events staged by Oasis Youth Support Network to raise awareness of youth homelessness.

She said the film competition, which is open to all secondary school students around the country, had the potential to be a major success in a variety of ways.

“Film and theatre and the visual arts, I really strongly believe has an exceptional

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and unique capacity to spread important social issues to help produce change in our community,” she said.

“I’d like to encourage school students to not only pick up a camera and participate in the competition but to use the education resource and delve into the issue and make outstanding films.

“Films that raise awareness tell really inspiring stories and provide solutions that not only touch hearts, but provoke us into making real action.”

The competition stems from the Australian Film Institute Award-winning documentary called The Oasis which was created by documentary film-maker and the chairman of The Caledonia Foundation, Ian Darling, in 2008.

Taking inspiration from the documentary, students are encouraged to create a three-minute film offering solutions to helping Australia’s homeless.

The winners will be announced in November and will receive $25,000 for their school.

“Films that raise awareness ... provoke us into making real action.”

- Cate Blanchett In conjunction with the film competition launch, former Midnight Oil frontman Garrett, in his role as the Federal Minister for School Education, Early Childhood and Youth, introduced the new secondary high school teaching resource, The Oasis Schools Curriculum Resource, also based on The Oasis documentary.

. . . o Oasis film project

Cate Blanchett was centre of attention, whether with Peter Garrett (far left), mingling with admirers or honouring Oasis directors, both past and present, Majors Robbin and Paul Moulds. Photos: Shairon Paterson

Senator Garrett then inspired school students to enter the competition by comparing song-writing to film-making.

“You can do it three minutes in a song; you can do it in three minutes in a film,” he said Recently appointed as The Oasis Schools Liaison Officer, Bee Orsini shared her experience of being homeless and will now travel to secondary schools around NSW to promote the resource.

Government campaign

Also, on 5 April, Oasis hosted the launch of a national campaign produced by Y Foundations, aimed at creating awareness about youth homelessness.

The Federal Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Mark Arbib, revealed the Government’s increasing concern about youth homelessness and its plan to spend $5 billion on enhancing services.

“We’ve come a long way as a country in the last four years. Homelessness wasn’t even on the map. We now know the size of the problem and we’ve got to make sure we fight it every day,” Senator Arbib said.

Y Foundations launched their national campaign at Oasis by distributing packs to all Australian social services. The packs contain writing materials and a camera.

With these tools, young people who have experienced or are currently experiencing homelessness have been asked to share their stories. These stories will be published on a new website created

by Virgin Unite, the charitable arm of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin group of companies, to create awareness about youth homelessness.

Additionally, a petition has been launched on this same website to encourage Australians to help end youth homelessness. Sign the online petition at

www.endyouthhomelessness.com.au.

On 9 April, Oasis hosted the “Oasis Youth Stage” event in support of National Youth Week.

The event was part of the Surry Hills Festival.

“It was a festival day, a community day. It provided us with the opportunity to connect and participate with the local community while engaging with our [homeless] young people, making them feel valued and included,” said Maria Ferreira, Oasis Youth Support Network Communications and Fundraising Coordinator.

Esther Pinn is a writer for Pipeline and supplements

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How to Justice Working together to be more effective

By Major PAUL MOULDS

O

ne of the greatest impediments to justice taking root and growing is our tendency to be “lone rangers”, working independently and in isolation from each other. God has intended his church to work in unity and our greatest strength and effectiveness will be achieved when we work together.

When God moves us to respond and take action about some issue of injustice, either in our local community or in another area, our first response shouldn’t be to rush to the frontline with people and resources. We need to research what others are doing, ask questions about what is already happening and carefully consider how we can work with others to make an impact.

Too often there are a multitude of different groups responding to the same need, working in isolation from each other.

An example of this can be found in the inner-city of Sydney where more than 800 people are sleeping on the streets or in refuge accommodation, according to the last street count conducted by the Sydney City Council.

In response to these disturbing statistics, a number of Christian communities have been moved to respond.

This has resulted in approximately 14 different groups serving food to the homeless in the inner-city. Each of them is well-intentioned and wanting to make a difference, and their immediate response was to feed the homeless. But they commenced these services without any consultation or research about what others were doing or what were the real gaps.

This has led to the situation where Sydney City Council has had to hold meetings with organisations to try and coordinate food distribution to the homeless. Homeless people have even complained about being woken several times during the night by different groups wanting to deliver sandwiches to them.

Ways to

Justice

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Our work can be so much more powerful and effective when we take the time to talk to others, research what is already being done and seek to work in partnership.

Partnerships can multiply the resources available and the impact of our work. For example, when Waterloo Hillsong Church recently wanted to respond to inner-city homelessness they didn’t just start a food service for the homeless, they consulted with the local council about what the most urgent gap was. The council gave them a surprising response. They told the church there wasn’t a need for any more food services, but what was needed were people who had the time to connect and build relationships with the homeless.

Based on this, Hillsong has developed a very different response to homelessness.

They send teams to the food vans and services that feed the homeless not to serve food, but to intentionally connect with those who use these services. They eat with them and sit in the gutter with them and deliberately seek to build relationships.

Worth the effort

There are no shortcuts to building partnerships. It takes time and work.

It involves attending local meetings, researching who the stakeholders are, seeking out people who share a similar vision and passion. But it is worth the effort.

The Salvation Army Oasis Youth Support Network has developed its effectiveness and reputation because it is passionately committed to partnerships.

It recognises it cannot provide the full range of services that its complex client group requires. So Oasis has sought to find other groups in the community to partner with to increase the reach and impact of its services.

For example, young people coming to Oasis struggled to secure income support. They often didn’t have adequate

identification and didn’t cope well with the long queues and complex forms at Centrelink. In response to this, Oasis was able to negotiate for a Centrelink worker to visit the Oasis premises and assist young people in a far friendlier environment where youth workers are available to advocate and support them.

Partnerships with local health services have led to outreach clinics commencing at the Oasis Youth Centre. These provide young people with better access to health services and mental health support.

To provide young people with access to fitness, mentoring, film-making, music, photography, legal support and even driving lessons, Oasis has formed partnerships with a variety of groups who have expertise in these areas.

Each one of these partnerships took time to develop. Each partnership grew out of understanding each other’s work and planning together. In some cases formal agreements were developed which outlined each partner’s contribution and responsibilities. Others were agreed to over an informal handshake. Every partnership takes time to nurture and requires regular, honest feedback and evaluation. But the investment is worthwhile and the benefits for those we seek to serve can be outstanding.

Partnerships also provide a great witness to the world about the church working together to see injustice overturned. There is something beautiful about the body of Christ, with all its traditions and denominations, coming together to work on issues of justice. It is a true sign of the Kingdom at work in the world.

Major Paul Moulds is Mission and Resource Director - Social, for The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory

This article is taken from the book 50 Ways To Do Justice which is published by Carpenter Media and available from Salvationist Supplies in Sydney (www.salvosuppliessyd.com) or The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory’s Justice Unit (www.justiceunit.com.au) for $7.50.

Challenging ministry straight out of Africa

By ESTHER PINN

S

tealing a sideways glance at each other, Captains David and Kim Hawke burst into laughter when asked about their new life as a married couple.

“Nothing is the same,” they reply in unison.

“We’ve both been single officers and I guess used to being quite independent ... but being married was a whole different perspective,” says David.

While most newlyweds take time to adjust to their partner’s habits, the Hawkes had the additional challenge of starting married life as Salvation Army officers serving as missionaries in the troubled African nation of Zimbabwe.

When they tied the knot in 2008, Kim had already spent three years in Zimbabwe. She is now joined by her husband in the regional city of Bulawayo, where together they run Enterprise House and Ralstein House. The couple works as administrators and provide cheap accommodation and food for people in need.

Before embarking on their adventure, there was a slight hiccup to their plans.

The Hawkes endured a forced separation just six weeks into their marriage due to a delay in David’s visa application.

“When we got married, Kim’s term initially started and they were waiting for my visa to come through. She returned to Zimbabwe without me,” says David.

Fortunately, the separation proved to be short-lived as Kim was allowed to return to Australia and join her husband for the four months it took for his visa to be approved.

If marriage wasn’t a big enough change to their lives, the arrival of their now 16-month-old daughter, Thando, turned their world upside down.

“With a little one coming, that was a whole new ball game again. So adjusting to the work, family life and finding a balance has been a real challenge,” admits David.

Since the birth of Thando, the Hawkes have found coping with the distance between them and their family in Australia to be even more of a challenge.

“I think being geographically close to family is a big thing and particularly since the birth of Thando ... the sense of distance has been more intensified and it’s a sacrifice for our family as well to have their little grand-daughter or niece so far away,” says Kim.

about their ministry in Zimbabwe, the joint response is both immediate and enthusiastic: “The people.”

While they miss the luxuries of home, the Hawkes have found their journey together to be rewarding.

“We have a lot of days where we are over it – this is just too hard,” admits Kim. “But then people will come along or an incident or circumstances or just in our prayer time, and God will just remind us this is where we need to be right now.”

The Hawkes were speaking to Pipeline reporter Esther Pinn during a recent sixweek furlough in Australia. They returned to Zimbabwe on Good Friday.

Passion for Zimbabwe

With another child on the way, Kim and David say they will re-evaluate their situation when their term in Zimbabwe ends in two years.

“I think we’re waiting to see what God says on that,” says David. “We’ve got to weigh up the options that are available for raising a child, particularly education. But then also being obedient to what God has in store for us.”

But for the moment, working as a team, they have both developed a passion for their ministry in Zimbabwe.

“It is a God-given passion for Zimbabwe,” says Kim. “It’s difficult to explain to people why you want to live and work there ... the only way to say it is that God has put a passion in our hearts for being there.”

When asked what they enjoy most

Captains David and Kim Hawke with their daughter, Thando, enjoy some family time during a recent break back in Australia. Photos: Shairon Paterson

pipeline 05/2011 15

The

Bible briefing

Real, radical and relevant discipleship This month, Pipeline concludes its three-part series, written by Lieutenant-Colonel DOUGLAS CLARKE, based on the Lord’s Sermon on the Mount. Study Three is entitled “The Critical Choices” and focuses on the gospel according to Matthew, chapters 5 to 7

I

n the second study last month (Pipeline, April issue), we considered “The Plus Factor” with our Lord’s disquieting and profoundly challenging question, “What more are you doing than others?” (Matthew 5:47, Revised Standard Version).

This “extraordinary”, “more than” is the distinctive mark of the authentic disciple’s life and mission.

In this third study we will consider “The Critical Choices”, honing in on the passage from Matthew 7:13-27, with parallel passages from Luke 13:23f; Luke 6:43f, 46; 13:26f and Luke 6:47-49.

The brief metaphors which conclude the Sermon on the Mount call for a choice, for commitment to Jesus and his Kingdom.

In each sketch the failure to respond is catastrophic: Matthew 7:13: Destruction; Matthew 7:19: Cut down and burned; Matthew 21 and 23: Exclusion from the kingdom of heaven; Matthew 7:27: Total collapse of the building.

These warnings come in quick succession, somewhat like road signs on a

16

freeway. In effect they are saying: Make sure you get through the gate; Be warned it’s not very wide; Watch out for people who will lead you off the road; Take the road signs seriously.

The first metaphor

“Inescapable Choice” – Matthew 7:13-14 Many people do not want to be pressed into making a choice.

However, Jesus cuts across today’s easygoing syncretism and insists on a decision.

Such teaching is counter-cultural and unacceptable in a materialistic society bent on indulging and pampering itself.

The American poet Robert Frost, in his poem The Road Not Taken, offers such a stark choice, whichever way the imagery is read: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less travelled by; And that has made all the difference.”

It was CS Lewis’ considered opinion that Matthew 7:14 was “the most distressing text in the Bible”.

Writing to an Anglican friend in

Religious Orders, Lewis commented: “About hell, how do we get over Matthew 7:13-14? But I agree we must get over that one somehow or go mad. Whether one really could believe in a universe when the majority were damned and also in the goodness of God.” Again, Lewis commented in a letter to his brother Warnie in 1939: “Whatever Matthew 7:13-14 meant, its purpose was certainly not statistical.”

Clearly, the narrow gate leading to the narrow road is the way of self-sacrifice and denial and with firm determination and looking unto Jesus, we will reach the end of our pilgrimage, which is life eternal.

The second metaphor

“By their fruits” – Matthew 7:15f More than ever before, the witness and mission of the Gospel is dependent upon the character, the “more than” of the authentic disciple.

Whilst the test of the fruit is reliable, it is not necessarily easy or quick.

The fruit may take some time to mature and the pernicious devastating results of false teaching and un-Christlike

behaviour and attitude may not at first be readily evident.

The real test is not so much what one says, but what one is and does.

Robert Louis Stevenson, the Scottish novelist, poet, essayist and travel writer, once said of an acquaintance: “I cannot hear what you say for listening to what you are.”

Jesus often counselled his disciples to be vigilant, to be on their guard. See Mark 8:15, 13:9, 13:23, 33, 35, 37 and Luke 12:15, 17:3, 21:34, 36.

Jesus also poignantly spoke of “dogs” and “pigs” (Matthew 7:6), which because of their dirty scavenging habits were more easily recognised than the “wolves” for they infiltrate into the flock in the disguise of harmless sheep (Matthew 7:15).

Sadly, their true character is often not discerned until the damage has been done.

The classic fable of the wolf in sheep’s clothing attributed to Aesop, of the sixth century BC, in Thomas Berwick’s 1818 edition carries the moral: “We ought not to judge men by their looks or their lives and appearances, but by the character of their lives and conversation and by their works.”

The third metaphor

“How do you build?” – Matthew 7:24-27 At the conclusion of the Sermon, Jesus strikes for a verdict. How do you build?

We are to imagine both houses as equally well built, the only difference being the foundations: “... both hear these words of mine,” implying that both are members of the visible Christian community.

The vital question is not so much as to whether they hear Christ’s teaching, but whether they do what they hear. Only a crisis in their lives will reveal the true nature of the foundation, whether it is rock or sand!

James, in his letter, follows closely the teaching of Jesus and, in so doing, thunderingly condemns any hearing of the word that does not issue in doing.

“Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear!” (James 1:22 The Message).

Again, the Old Testament prophet Ezekiel: “They listen to all your words and don’t obey a single one of them” (Ezekiel 33:32, Good News Bible).

Obedience to the teaching is the only safe and firm foundation for one’s life. The extraordinary claims and teaching of Jesus cannot be ignored.

CS Lewis memorably commented: “You must make your choice. Either Jesus was and is the Son of God or else a madman or something worse, a demon.

Jesus knows the absolute importance of his own teachings because he knows himself to be the one who decisively reveals the will of God.” And Jesus said: “Are you listening to this? Really listening?” (Mark 4:9, The Message).

Because of who he is we must listen and obediently apply to ourselves our Lord’s teachings.

Lieutenant-Colonel Douglas Clarke is a retired Salvation Army officer of the Australia Eastern Territory

with Major Barbara Sampson

Matthew 6:1-4 ”Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (v4, NIV).

T

here is an addiction just as serious as dependence on alcohol or drugs, but maybe a little more subtle. It is approval addiction, the result of a confusion between one’s performance and one’s worth as a person.

The indicators of approval addiction’s presence are questions such as: “How am I doing?”; “Do others like me?”; “Am I making a good impression?”

Comparison and competition are its footmen; envy and resentment its closest buddies.

Henri Nouwen says that at the heart of approval addiction is the matter of

ownership. “To whom do I belong? To God or to the world? Many of my daily preoccupations suggest that I belong more to the world than to God. A little criticism makes me angry, and a little rejection makes me depressed. A little praise raises my spirits, and a little success excites me ... often I am like a small boat on the ocean, completely at the mercy of its waves.”

Oh, to be free of such bondage! Jesus was free to be himself, to speak the truth in love, and he tells us how to find that same freedom: “When you help someone out, don’t think about how it looks. Just do it – quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out” (v3-4, The Message).

Paul urges believers to “take every

thought captive to obey Christ” (2 Cor 10:5), and to be transformed by the renewing of the mind (Rom 12:2). We first need to win this battle on the inside.

Then we can pray regularly for someone without telling them, or make a donation to an organisation or to someone in need, but do it anonymously.

We can quietly immerse ourselves in a portion of Scripture until it becomes etched on our hearts, a guiding principle by which to live. We can, as the bumper sticker suggests: “Commit random acts of kindness and senseless beauty.”

To reflect on ...

When we can place the public relations department of our heart entirely in the hands of God, then our heart is truly free.

pipeline 05/2011 17

Peter’s got his passion

18

By ESTHER PINN

W

ith a proud look on his face, Major Peter Sutcliffe eagerly showed off his impressive stamp collection when chatting with Pipeline.

“For me it’s a nice relaxing thing to do,” Major Sutcliffe, the Australia Eastern Territorial Communications Director, says as he opens one of his prized collectables – a envelope signed by former world leader of The Salvation Army General Eva Burrows (Ret).

Stamp collecting has always been a hobby for Major Sutcliffe, but in 1982 he was introduced to another dimension of philately – collecting stamps, envelopes and letterheads that are connected to The Salvation Army.

He became fascinated by collecting Salvation Army memorabilia when reading an article in the Army’s international magazine All The World about Salvation Army stamps.

“Being a Salvationist, I thought ‘why not?’. It relates to an organisation I’m a part of and I started collecting from there,” he explains.

Salvation Army stamps date back to 1932 in the Netherlands Indies (now Indonesia). That was the first country in the world to produce a stamp to honour the work of The Salvation Army. They were known as “charity stamps”.

A majority of Major Sutcliffe’s collection consists of stamps that were produced to recognise significant events such as centenary occasions. For example, he owns a stamp from the “Faces of Australia” set of Salvationist John Lodge that was released in 2000.

While Major Sutcliffe has quite a collection he is not concerned with its financial value, but rather its “sentimental value”.

One of the “nicest” items he owns is three envelopes from the Red Shield Huts in the Second World War. The envelopes contain letters written by his wife’s [Major Miriam Sutcliffe] father during the war and addressed to his parents.

“Why I think they’re great [is because] who would have thought that 40 years after they were written and posted, that I would marry this man’s daughter. And to think that he kept these envelopes and they hadn’t been destroyed,” Major Sutcliffe says enthusiastically.

Major Sutcliffe also enjoys collecting Salvation Army philatelic items because of the historical and geographical information they teach about other countries.

Societies get stamp of approval

O

nce a month, 20 members of the Hurstville Salvation Army Philatelic Society gather to sift through stamp circuit books. The aim is to find and purchase new stamps to add to existing collections.

“They spend time wading through books. Some come with a list of what stamps they’ve got,” explains Geoff Maxwell, organiser and member of the Hurstville Salvation Army Philatelic Society.

A majority of these members are not Salvationists, but the society is one of only two Salvation Army philatelic groups in existence around the world.

“There are only two in the world

“The other thing is I’ve discovered things where I never knew the Army was.

Surinam [in 1987] featured a stamp. When you start to look at stamps you start to find out a bit about the country – it opens your knowledge geography-wise,” he explains.

Aside from being a hobby, Major Sutcliffe believes stamp collecting can impart spiritual lessons.

“To me there are spiritual lessons out of postage stamps as well. People should look at a stamp and know its value immediately. Also, for a stamp to do its work correctly it has to be attached to something and then cancelled. ”So as Christians we need to attach ourselves to Christ and we need to be cancelled to self so that we can do his work.”

In addition to philatelic items, Major Sutcliffe collects other Salvation Army memorabilia such as mugs, badges, coasters, memory-verse tickets, Christmas cards and cradle-roll postcards.

“These days all I do is collect items that relate to The Salvation Army. I no longer collect any countries. I don’t even collect Australian stamps anymore,” he says.

“So I just concentrate on collecting any philatelic item that relates to The Salvation Army – doesn’t matter where it comes from.”

For those interested in Salvation Army philatelic items, Major Sutcliffe recommends these two websites for more information: www.sacollectables.com and www.briefmarken.aaj.de.

that are run by the Salvos and this one is sponsored by the local corps,” says Geoff.

Eager to keep the tradition alive, Geoff also took over the International Salvation Army Philatelic and Historical Journal Society two years ago. He produces a quarterly magazine that provides information about what stamps are available and historical information about stamps. The society lists more than 100 members from countries including Australia, England, Netherlands, Germany, Norway and New Zealand.

If you would like further information about these philatelic societies, email Geoff Maxwell at geoff@hilton.id.au

Major Peter Sutcliffe displays one of his favourite collections, three envelopes from the Second World War containing letters written by his wife’s father to his parents. Photos: Shairon Paterson.

pipeline 05/2011 19

Captain Mal Davies

Q &A

Pipeline Managing Editor Scott Simpson talks to The Salvation Army’s National EditorIn-Chief Captain Mal Davies about the power and ministry of the written word

Q &A

SS: Tell me, Mal, do you have one of those appointments that other Salvation Army officers have nightmares about getting?

MD: (laughs) Well, that’s a nice way to start an interview! Mind you, it’s probably true. I’m well aware that, yes, most officers had more than enough of reading and writing when they went through college.

Every now and then, however, God in his good humour decides that it’s time to produce an officer who’s actually drawn to the editorial department. And that’s where I fit in.

20

SS: I guess for our readers to understand fully what your appointment involves, I should get you to explain it to us.

MD: Most Salvation Army territories around the world produce some form of periodical, be it a magazine or newspaper and it may be as often as weekly or, in some instances, as occasional only as quarterly. In Australia, four regular magazines are produced: Warcry, Kidzone, On Fire and Pipeline, although Pipeline, as you well know, goes backto-back with a range of supplementary magazines about women’s ministries, creative arts and so on. While On Fire is the internal Army magazine in the Australia Southern Territory and Pipeline is the equivalent in the Australia Eastern Territory, both Warcry and Kidzone are national magazines. Because of this, the editorial department that produces them – at the Army’s Territorial Headquarters in Melbourne – is known as the National Editorial Department and, as National Editor-In-Chief, I manage that department.

SS: Tell us about yourself and, specifically, how you ended up in your current position.

MD: Well, the quick answer is that I was appointed here! It’s not as though officers can lobby personnel departments to be

given a senior position, although – as happened with me – I guess you can make it clear where you would like to serve one day. I’ve always loved reading and writing and it was this, to a large degree, that led me to complete a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature many years ago. I then worked for the Army in youth work and social work for 15 years before my wife, Tracey, and I were called to officership.

It’s probably a telltale sign that while I was still working for the Army I began submitting articles for publication and continued to do so while I was going through college. Tracey and I left college and were corps officers in Adelaide for two years and then, amazingly, I went to editorial. Six months later, I became the editor of Warcry and three years later I was appointed as National Editor-In-Chief.

SS: What are the main pressures of the role?

MD: Needless to say, the deadlines.

Whether you’re having a great week or a lousy week, the magazines still have to come out. I’m grateful for a great staff team who are very professional in their approach. There are also space pressures.

We can only fit so much in, so sometimes we’ll have someone pushing for a feature story and they’ll end up with a one-page article, or they’ll be after major coverage

Captain Mal Davies in his office at the National Editorial Department in Melbourne.

for an event that is important to them but, in our opinion, isn’t that significant to most of our readership. So there’s a lot of judgment calls made about content.

SS: Does that apply theologically as well?

How do you know that the content is always in line with Army theology?

MD: The first check in place is that each article we publish goes through an internal reading process, meaning four or five people read it before it even gets near the designer to be put ‘on page’. And it’s not unusual for those readers to occasionally question a phrase, a sentence – even a single word – as to its alignment with Army doctrine and with Scripture. So it’s a reasonably common event in our office to see or hear staff discussing the fine details of an article. The second check is that all key articles are sent to a pool of readers for approval before we go to print; this group includes the territorial commander and chief secretary. So when an article appears in an Army magazine in Australia, it’s been drafted and re-drafted several times and has been read by a number of people including key leaders in the Army.

SS: Does this mean all Salvationists should agree with everything we print?

MD: By no means. I don’t even agree with

everything we print! It’s important to recognise that there are many theological positions that can be taken on ‘the variables’ that fit within the bounds of Army standards, practice and belief. That is, we won’t ever publish an article that says ‘Jesus is a more important part of the Trinity than the Holy Spirit’, because that’s a clear clash with our Salvation Army doctrines. However, if someone submitted an article saying we should be preaching more sermons on sin and hell, well, that’s just an opinion piece that doesn’t contravene our doctrines. Subsequently, I or other readers may disagree with the article and the position expressed, but that doesn’t make it wrong according to Army theology.

SS: To play devil’s advocate for a moment, if there are regular deadline pressures and theological checks and questions about content, why would a young Salvo bother to serve God in this sort of work rather than in a more direct, mission-oriented or evangelistic role?

MD: This question has been raised with me many times before and I always come back to the numbers. On one hand, I can serve in a role where I can have an impact on the 20 or 80 or 200 people I meet each week or, alternately, I can write an article that will aim to introduce Christ to people

and have it read by 100,000 people. My key motivation for this role is not the attraction to writing or to seeing my name in print, it’s to introduce people to Christ. I’m very strong on this. So as I see it, I can reach far more people through a national magazine than by standing there talking to one person at a time or even to a congregation.

SS: But surely – and I’m still playing devil’s advocate here – that job can be done by professional writers and journalists who simply research and write about Christianity. Why does it need an officer to do it?

MD: Because it’s a ministry and because God wants us to use our spiritual gifts.

Writing as a ministry is beyond debate: how often have you been challenged or inspired by a Christian book you read or a biography or a Bible study resource or, of course, Scripture itself? There’s no doubt that someone can read words on a page and have their life changed. I’m also in no doubt that Christian writing is a spiritual gift. Imagine even trying to say to John Ortberg or Max Lucado or Adrian Plass that they should stop wasting their time writing and take up a real ministry.

Clearly, the ability to put words together in such a way that a reader is drawn closer to God is a spiritual gift. 

pipeline 05/2011 21

By SIMONE WORTHING

W

hen Captain Lyn Cathcart arrived in Moree in January, she immediately began assisting with flood relief for evacuated residents of nearby Boggabilla and Toomelah.

Once the crisis was over, there was time to think about the many other exciting programs, both existing and planned, to “help people understand Jesus better and promote a greater sense of unity in the area,” she said.

Among other assets, Captain Cathcart knew The Salvation Army’s Community Welfare Centre had a computer room.

“Sydney Cove Rotary Club had paid for a room full of computers, and there were some donated locally as well,” she said. “The local ‘Moree on Gwydir’ Rotary Club has also come on board to help make things happen.”

There are big plans for the Moree Corps and Community Centre, and many of them involve the computers.

“I see three things happening soon,” said Captain Cathcart. “Instead of doing welfare two mornings a week, we will have one day of ‘Guuma’li’. This is the name of our centre and is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘meeting place’.

“We will open for a free meal, snacks and a chat for whoever wants to come.

People can still receive assistance but it will be without appointments. They can also access the computers to pay bills and research. We also plan to have people available to teach computer skills and assist as necessary.

“In the afternoons, school students will have access to the computers and help with their homework. Over time we want the room to be available for more than one day after school, and for the community to know that this room is available for training purposes as well.”

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The Moree Corps also has plans for “Community Gardens”, a large piece of ground behind the church, including an oval and paddock with wells and a pond in one corner.

“We want to transform this area, particularly through community participation and the work for the dole scheme, into an area where people can grow vegies and flowers, plants for propagation and sale, extra vegies to use in our kitchen, or just sit and enjoy a place they can feel is theirs,” said Captain Cathcart.

“We’d also like to produce Aboriginal food and use this as a teaching exercise for the community. We have put money aside for this plan and also have been awarded grants through Housing NSW.” The Moree Salvation Army also dreams of providing programs in horticulture, catering and computers for children who don’t go to school, with an added vision for getting some of these

children back to full-time education.

“We want to be the place where people get their lives back on track in every way – physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually,” said Captain Cathcart.

“We expect that God will draw people to himself and our church congregation will also automatically grow.”

The Community Welfare Centre is located near the Aboriginal Mission and public housing areas where many children live.

Every Friday afternoon, the corps bus picks up between 40 and 50 mostly Indigenous children from the community for youth activities.

“We get the kids playing games and learning about Jesus,” said Captain Cathcart. “I’m so impressed with how the kids respond to us, they love us. For them, and for their parents, church is a safe and happy place.”

Children ranging from toddlers to those in early high school attend Max

Moree children always enjoy their time in the computer room.

Club (meaning developing maximum potential). The club’s leaders are young people who graduated from the Deadly Diamonds – a group of Indigenous young people who are in Years 6 and 7 at school and have potential to be leaders. They meet weekly and learn leadership and spiritual development.

“The system is working because a brother and sister in Years 11 and 12 who graduated from the program themselves are now strongly involved in leadership and are responsible for most of the training and programming for both groups,” said Captain Cathcart.

The corps also runs a Mainly Music program, hosts an Indigenous playgroup, and runs holiday clubs.

“Volunteers from other areas come in to run our holiday clubs,” explained Captain Cathcart.

“It’s great for our local kids and gives those who volunteer an understanding of mission. Some of the kids are from Christian schools, others are from the churches, but they are mostly city kids who volunteer and therefore haven’t been exposed to mission, so this is great for them too.”

Adrian Kistan has been working with the Moree Corps for the past five years.

“He is a valued member of our team, and has special gifts in working with our

A free meal is part of the evening for all Max Club kids in Moree.

youth and Indigenous community,” said Captain Cathcart. “It was his dream that has exploded into this community, stirred by the now retired Linda Meppem who was corps officer when Adrian arrived.

“We also have our chaplain, Harold French, who will be spending time visiting both the families of the kids who come to our church, as well as families who used to come to the Army but don’t anymore.

“We hope and pray that our numbers

will increase, especially with our Indigenous families, and that we can be a growing and serving community.

“Watch this space!”

Simone Worthing is a writer for Pipeline and supplements

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  

    

     pipeline 05/2011 23

Malcolm thrives in the

building trade

By ESTHER PINN

M

alcolm Beeson has spent the past two years overseeing the construction of buildings in Papua New Guinea, but The Salvation Army has given him a new role back in Australia which will involve building of a different kind.

“My new job is to build up men’s ministries in this territory,” Malcolm says as he settles into his new surroundings at the Army’s Australia Eastern Territorial Headquarters in Sydney.

“And there’s a desperate need for men’s ministries. Statistics say that churches have about 40 per cent men in their congregation. But the Army has only 38 per cent. We always thought we had a greater percentage of men but we are less than the average church.”

Before stepping into his new role last month, Malcolm and his wife Dawn were busy building school classrooms in Papua New Guinea.

Based in the capital Port Moresby, Malcolm worked as the Army’s Property Secretary and Dawn the Project and Literary Secretary.

“The job itself was rewarding. You couldn’t see too much until a building was finished but that was rewarding seeing buildings go up,” says Malcolm.

Both Malcolm and Dawn admit there was some sadness at having to return to Australia and leave the people they ministered to behind.

“We were asked to stay on longer but because of family commitments and other considerations, we said no ... it was sad leaving but it was the right time to leave,” Malcolm says.

While excited about his new role in the Men’s Ministries Department, Malcolm says he feels overawed. His major experience with men’s ministry was at a conference in Papua New Guinea.

“I was involved the preparations for the first Territorial Men’s Convention in Lae,” he says.

“There was in excess of 500 men there.

When you consider they slept on floors in the school ... there wasn’t one complaint.”

Malcolm is organising a men’s conference, “Just Men”, that will be held from 29-31 July this year at The Collaroy Centre on Sydney’s northern beaches.

At the conference the Salvo Men’s

24

Malcolm Beeson has swapped constructing properties in Papua New Guinea for building a men’s ministry in The Salvation Army’s Australia Eastern Territory. Photo: Shairon Paterson

Ministry will be relaunched. While some corps’ around the territory already have their own men’s ministry events, there is a need for a larger male community, according to Malcolm.

Ministry for all men

“At this camp we are also going to relaunch men’s ministries. There will be a workshop on men’s ministries and other things there. Even an expo on ‘all things men’,” he says.

Malcolm also has a desire for the ministry to be open to any man in the community.

“It’s not only for Salvationists but for those who are outside the church, so that

they will come into God’s Kingdom,” he says.

“It’s not just a club for Salvationists.”

Settling back into life in Australia, Malcolm believes his experiences in PNG have changed him for the better.

“We fitted in well again. I guess we’re different but the people, our friends aren’t,” he says.

“It’s hard to say how I’ve changed but it’s a different lifestyle, a different culture [in Papua New Guinea] and you can’t help but be affected by that.”

If you would like further information or would like to register for the Just Men conference, email Malcolm Beeson at: malcolm.beeson@aue.salvationarmy.org

Book Review

Vast experience poured into guide on practical Christian living Writing the Vision – Collected Writings, by Wesley Harris

C

ommissioner Wesley Harris has been a contributor to Salvation Army publications for more than six decades and continues to use this tool of ministry. The material in this book is largely drawn from his published writings of the past two decades.

As the material is drawn from nine different sources, each with their own readership target groups, there is an inevitable variability in the focus of the material. However, it is all unified by the consistent style of the author.

He draws extensively on personal experiences from his service as an officer in three international zones of The Salvation Army and his ability to reference literary and biblical sources.

It is from this extensive storehouse that the author is able to present down-to-earth principles which lie at the heart of practical Christian living – and that is really what this collection of writings is all about.

A basic premise that “people are more likely to follow footsteps than pronouncements” arises from his considerations of how we need to live

together locally and globally.

Although the book of Proverbs provides the launching pad for our instruction, the insightful anecdotes quickly reveal obligations that apply to us all within contemporary society.

A helpful feature of the book is the introductory section which records an interview with the author. This

biographical introduction enables us to meet the man behind the words. In the interview, Commissioner Harris sums up his writing career as “just something I do, it’s who I am. I believe the Lord has helped me do it.”

The other section of the book which gives the most insight into the person Wesley Harris is a small collection of 10 poems. Most of this concluding chapter is in the form of prayers addressed to a faithful God whose overarching plan is always for the good of his world and its people from a man whose desire is alignment with that plan.

In some ways this book of collected writings could be compared to a Whitman’s sampler box of chocolates.

Each section has its own flavour and independence, but there remains throughout a consistency of insights, encouragement and challenge.

– Major Cec Woodward Writing the Vision – Collected Writings is available from Salvationist Supplies in Sydney (www.salvosuppliessyd.com) for $15

pipeline 05/2011 25

Boardwalk Empire DISTRIBUTOR: HBO TIME-SLOT: Sundays, 8.30pm RATING: M

T

here’s a saying that could have been making the rounds since Eve directed Adam’s attention to that first piece of forbidden fruit – “One bad apple can ruin the whole barrel”. It’s an axiom Jesus picked up on when he warned his disciples that there was no such thing as a safe amount of evil, “A little leaven, leavens the whole loaf.”

Boardwalk Empire is a week-by-week morality tale about how evil expands until it taints everything we do.

“Nucky” Thomson is the Treasurer of Atlantic City’s city council during the American prohibition. To the public he is the caring politician who has struggled against injustice all of his life; to those in the know, he is the king-pin of organised crime, receiving payments from every illegal enterprise within the city limits.

But Nucky is not all graft and corruption. Struggling between his wallet and his mistress is an infrequent sense of charity towards those who have been kicked to the curb. He ensures that rough justice is meted out to a wife-beating husband, while looking out for the wayward son of an old friend. But a new breed of gangster is emerging in the form of legendary names like Lucky Luciano and Al Capone, men who have little time for Nucky’s niceties.

Boardwalk Empire is the newest offering from the American award-winning channel HBO. It has all the slickness of its stable-mate The Sopranos combined with the cultural insight of Madmen. The series stars Steve Buscemi who was born to play Nucky Thomson’s complex character. He’s ably supported by Michael Pitt, who plays Jimmy Darmody, the Treasurer’s impatient driver-cum-protégé.

It’s Jimmy who actually sets the theme of the series by alerting Nucky to the changing nature of his criminal world.

There is a new kind of gangster on the rise who learned the value of life in the furnace of World War One. “I’m going to Hell, Nuck. I’m nothing but a murderer,”

26

Steve Buscemi stars as Nucky Thomson in the new HBO series Boardwalk Empire.

he explains to his employer. But Nucky has to embrace what Jimmy brings to the business if he is going to successfully face the challenge Luciano and Capone represent. “You can’t be half a gangster,” he tells him. “Not anymore.”

And so the slide begins. Nucky’s instructions become more and more violent as he seeks to preserve his business interests while limiting his exposure to federal investigators. Hot on his tail is Agent Van Elden, a character who shows us what Christianity looks like in the 1920s. Straight-laced and staunchly moralistic, Van Elden frowns on drink and any hint of a bribe.

He tries to recruit Jimmy to his cause telling him fighting crime is a “godly pursuit”. “You go to church?” he asks the driver, “Then you’d understand.

But at the same time we see a hint of longing in Van Elden for a woman other than his wife, as well as a tendency to cut corners to accomplish the “greater good”.

And we know that if he continues to give in to those temptations his life will soon be as hopelessly compromised as Nucky.

Boardwalk Empire makes for fascinating viewing, showing us just how much attitudes have changed since the roaring ‘20s. We no longer blame the Jews for the problems of international finance; nor do we tolerate well-dressed spruikers inviting us to, “Join your brothers and sisters in the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan ... a Christian, fraternal organisation!”

But familiar attitudes remain. Nucky’s empire is ordered by a pragmatism that is well at home in the 21st century.

His conscience is allowed to affect his actions, but only so far as it doesn’t interfere with profit margins. His good intentions are being swamped by the evil he’s allowed to prosper. And we know that Nucky’s downward slide is just as certain as a promise the Apostle Paul made to the Galatians, gangsters and Australians alike: “Do not be deceived. God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from that Spirit will reap eternal life” (Galatians 6:7-8).

What would Jesus view?

Jane Eyre RATING: M DISTRIBUTOR: NBC Universal RELEASE DATE: TBC

I

am a rock-climber. I like surfing and I think the best footy is the game you get to play in the mud. I say this just to make it absolutely clear that I’m as “blokey” as, well, the next bloke.

But the truth is I also think 19th century English novels are more engaging than most sports sections. I didn’t complain when I heard I’d be studying Jane Austen’s Emma for my HSC. I even managed to wangle myself an invitation to my sister’s girls night out to see Pride and Prejudice.

The attraction for me is the unambiguous Christianity professed and practiced by so many of the characters in these novels.

That a genuine faith must walk hand in hand with charitable deeds is a

common theme in Miss Austen’s and the Bronte sisters’ tales. And this defining characteristic is well preserved in Focus Features’ latest production of Jane Eyre.

For that half of the audience who don’t already know the story, Jane Eyre is Charlotte Bronte’s “autobiographical” account of a young orphan who is packed off to a stark boarding school at an early age by her self-centred aunt.

There Jane is introduced to the worst aspects of Christian Puritanism, in particular the hypocritical Mr Brocklehurst who insists on the most stoic lifestyle for his students, while indulging his family.

But Jane struggles through and her faith is defined rather than destroyed by the experience.

Providence leads our heroine to Thornfield Manor where she takes up a position as a governess. There she’s offered the sort of happiness she has only dreamt of – if she is prepared to sacrifice

Jane Eyre, starring Mia Wasikowska, is a gorgeous period drama worthy of the book authored by Charlotte Bronte.

her long-held notions of right and wrong.

She declines and begins her life again.

Indignities continue to be heaped on Jane’s head but she learns to find contentment in the humblest of surroundings. And God is clearly watching because her persistent faith is rewarded with a conclusion that is as just as it is fulfilling.

Writer Moira Buffini plays with the timeline of the film to present an imaginative retelling of what will be a familiar tale for many fans. Mia Wasikowska (Alice In Wonderland; The Kids Are Alright) is also an excellent choice for the plain-but-pure Jane doggedly walking her tightrope between Christian pretense and a libertine society.

Judi Dench, the quintessential English dame, ably supports her as Thornfield’s warm housekeeper, Mrs Fairfax. And Michael Fassbender gives his acting career a much-needed boost from his earlier roles in Inglorious Basterds and 300 as Jane’s tortured, Byronic love-interest Edward Rochester.

The result is a gorgeous period drama worthy of the book that has delighted female readers in particular for more than 160 years.

But Jane Eyre is no “Mills & Boone” romance. Like the book, the film resists the modern tendency towards situational ethics and argues for a faith that is prepared to politely defy society.

In the preface to her book, Charlotte Bronte wrote that, “Conventionality is not morality ... narrow human doctrines, that only tend to elate and magnify a few, should not be substituted for the worldredeeming creed of Christ.”

Even love is not allowed to take the place of the heroine’s “... impassioned selfrespect and moral conviction”.

Jane Eyre is the sort of gift I would give to a daughter if I had one. It’s a welcome reminder that Christianity is not a point of view but something that embraces our whole person.

The beauty it conveys is a product of its consistency. It can’t be selectively put on and off because a conscience silenced is a conscience killed.

pipeline 05/2011 27

MISSION PRIORITY 3 – CORPS HEALTHY AND MULTIPLYING Territorial Secretary for Program Lieutenant-Colonel Miriam Gluyas and Territorial Chief Finance Officer Ian Minnett are working together on promoting the Mission Priorities.

Extra funding for Mission Priorities projects

A

one-off funding package has been announced to finance projects that promote mission priorities in the Australia Eastern Territory.

Some projects have already been identified for possible funding in initial discussions within each division.

Territorial Chief Financial Officer Ian Minnett says each divisional headquarters will be responsible for allocating the funding. Each application for funds must meet mission priority guidelines.

The funding initiative is a territorial strategic plan born out of the need to rethink the allocation of available Salvation Army money, according to Mr Minnett.

“Generally speaking, the allocation of budget funding across the divisions has been based on prior-year funding with a modest increase. In difficult years, there has been the need to cut back on funding.

“So the question that was being considered was how do we encourage new and creative ministry and how do we focus to ensure that The Salvation Army’s resources are used to their optimum value.

“During 2010, the territorial leadership introduced a new style of connection with each divisional headquarters. A strategic meeting was scheduled and the agenda was set to include questions such as what are the new initiatives that might be chosen to maximise the impact of The Salvation Army in each division and what are some areas that may need to be rethought

in order to reallocate resources to the areas of optimum opportunity.

“The territory’s financial resources are sufficient, but not unlimited. The Salvation Army rules on maintaining minimum reserves have ensured that The Salvation Army is well placed to be viable for the long-term.

“In one sense, this initiative is counterintuitive. It would be possible to retain funds and never spend them for the sake of ensuring sufficient liquidity.

“However, from a Christian perspective, we know that we have a calling to reach out with the good news of Jesus Christ in its numerous forms. Our founder, William Booth, was keen to ensure that the Gospel could be shared with all people so that all could be saved.

“With this in mind, the Territorial Operations Council is keen to ensure that funds are released in a strategic way to meet the needs of today.

“We need to trust God and depend on Him for everything.

As we take these bold steps, we are praying that God will honour our intentions and that this approach will deliver some fantastic outcomes for The Salvation Army and the kingdom of God.” Territorial Secretary for Program Lieutenant-Colonel Miriam Gluyas says the funding package is “a real desire to see multiplication in all of our ministries – multiplication of souls, disciples, small groups, leaders and corps.”

“An investment needs to be made to support ministries that will produce fruit.

The territory is committed to resourcing those things that produce fruit for the kingdom. They need to be in line with our mission of saving souls, growing saints and serving suffering humanity.

“The mission priorities are key.

We need people marked by prayer and holiness. We need to meet all of our priorities.

“We also want to embrace the gold mine of One Army One Mission. How can we work together to create safe communities where all Aussies will be embraced? That is the challenge for us all.”

Lieut-Colonel Gluyas says funds have also recently been provided for training, resources and networking, which assists officers to grow healthy, multiplying ministries; youth and children’s conferences; and new material for soldiership.

...to support ministries that produce fruit

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7 MISSION PRIORITIES 1. A territory marked by prayer and holiness

Share the journey through networking Networking among corps and centres is vital to the Mission Priorities process. Territorial Mission Director Major NEIL CLANFIELD tells how networking helps his ministry

M

y first real experience of networking was around 11 years ago. My wife and I had not long taken up new appointment as Corps Officers at Tweed Heads.

I was invited to join five or six other corps leaders to regularly meet to discuss things that related to ministry and leadership.

Having not long returned from four years in an overseas appointment and a real desire that my ministry and leadership be effective, I saw this as a opportunity not only to learn but to put some formal ministry accountabilities into my life.

I readily joined the group and made it a priority in my life.

It had an incredible impact on the direction of my ministry and leadership.

What I joined 11 years ago is what many today would know as a network, cluster or accountability group. While different people get different things from such a group, for me it was having a space where I could journey with others in learning new things about ministry and leadership as well as having the opportunity to learn from the knowledge and personal experiences of others.

A critical aspect for me was that it was also an environment where accountabilities were established in regard to my ministry and leadership as well as in my personal life in such areas as my family life and thought life.

As we shared together, learnt together and prayed together, something powerful happened which I believe was God-led and blessed.

Proverbs 27:17 says: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (NIV). To me, here lies one of the important principles behind why networks, clusters, accountability groups work.

It is not only recognising that others have something valuable to contribute to our lives, but understanding that God’s intention is that we position ourselves where we help each other in the journey of life.

Knowing personally the impact

2. Our whole territory – in every place – involved in evangelism

3. Corps – healthy and multiplying 4. Our people equipped and empowered to serve the world

5. The territory passionate about bringing children to Jesus

6. Youth trained and sent out to frontline mission

7. Significant increase of new soldiers and officers

that such a group has had on my ministry and leadership, I have been very much encouraged to see that one of the initiatives that the territory is currently committed to is encouraging officers to participate in one of the divisional networks that are being established.

While this initiative has been born out of our territory’s response to the Mission Priorities, it is not about just implementing another strategy, but more about providing environments where leaders can journey together, learn together and pray together.

I believe there will be many positive outcomes for the officers who participate in this initiative.

Imagine the impact on our corps, our territory, if all of us as Salvationists were committed to being part of an environment where we regularly shared together, learnt together and prayed together.

I am convinced that the more we become a people who apply the Proverbs 27:17 principle, the more we will see not only our personal lives becoming stronger, but our corps truly healthy and multiplying.

Major Neil Clanfield (below) is a strong advocate of networking to achieve ministry goals like the Mission Priorities.

pipeline 05/2011 29

Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

News FEATURE

Condons installed as Australia Eastern

By ESTHER PINN

C

ommissioners James and Jan Condon were officially installed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries respectively, of the Australia Eastern Territory on Sunday 10 April, at Parramatta Corps in Sydney.

The installation was conducted by Commissioners Raymond and Aylene Finger, leaders of The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory, while Australia Eastern Territory Chief Secretary, Colonel Wayne Maxwell, made the welcoming remarks.

“This is a significant moment,” said Commissioner Raymond. “This is the second time in 130 years that the leadership team of both territories are both Australian.”

After only five months as International Secretary for the South Pacific and East Asia Zone and Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries respectively, at The Salvation Army International Headquarters in London, the Condons shared how

these roles prepared them for their new positions as territorial leaders.

“Nothing is wasted. Yes, only five months. I return to this territory, Australia, with more wisdom and insight,” Commissioner James said.

Following a prelude by the Sydney Staff Songsters and Parramatta Corps Band, the Condons were given a warm welcome from family, friends and colleagues as they entered the building. A group from Commissioner James’ home corps, Shoalhaven (formerly Nowra), also attended. LieutenantColonel Philip Cairns then prayed.

Commissioners Raymond and Aylene Finger then led the Condons through a series of vows of dedication and commitment to God in relation to their position as leaders of the Australia Eastern Territory. This was followed by a segment titled “Home Coming” by the Sydney Staff Songsters and included Colonel Robyn Maxwell conducting an interview with the Condons about their time in London and their service here in Australia.

Major Shelley Soper was the chosen representative speaker and in welcoming home the Condons, outlined some of their personal qualities and pledged the support and prayers of the officers and soldiers of the territory.

Commissioner Jan then spoke about her heart and love for Australia: “It feels right to be home,” she said.

She spoke about her experiences in London, her passion for her new role and then publicly renewed her covenant as a Salvation Army officer.

“I want to publicly renew my covenant again. I affirm my

Parramatta Corps was the venue for the official installation service of Commissioners James and Jan Condon (left) who take charge of the Australia Eastern Territory. The service was conducted by Commissioners Raymond and Aylene Finger (above), of the Australia Southern Territory, and also featured the Sydney Staff Songsters (top right).

Photos: Carolyn Hide and James Crisostomo

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Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

News FEATURE

Territory leaders commitment to the seven Mission Priorities of this territory.”

Commissioner James based his message from Colossians 1:1-23 and shared how God gave him a verse to use as the foundation for his leadership.

“As I sat in Kelsey Park [in London] to listen to the Lord, he gave me a verse to be the hallmark of my life and leadership in the years ahead. Colossians 1:18b, ‘So that in everything he might have the supremacy’.”

Commissioner James said the “supremacy of Christ” would be applied to his personal life, his calling and the sacred office of Territorial Commander, to the 10th floor boardroom [at Territorial Headquarters] where vital decisions are made, to his office where many interviews are conducted and to his ministry as teacher, pastor and encourager of the flock.

Lieut-Colonel Peter Laws then led the congregation in song with Soldiers of our God and the service concluded with a benediction from Lieut-Colonel Miriam Gluyas.

Warm welcome in Sunshine State

By SIMONE WORTHING

A

warm and responsive congregation gathered at Brisbane City Temple on Sunday evening, 17 April, for the Queensland welcome to Australia Eastern territorial leaders, Commissioners James and Jan Condon.

“You are God’s people in God’s timing,” said Chief Secretary, Colonel Wayne Maxwell, as he addressed the Condons. “You are dedicated people with great capacity, we look forward to serving with you and we want to welcome you home to the Queensland you know so well.”

Major Wendy Walters welcomed the Commissioners on behalf of Queensland’s officers. She spoke about the tough times the state had experienced during the Condon’s five months in London, as well as the growth and progress of The Salvation Army in that time.

“God has placed you here for such a time as this and we know he is leading us to greater things - things of Kingdom value - as we move forward,” she said.

Scott Frame, representing the Army’s youth, also welcomed the Condons and expressed the support of the Queensland divisions.

“We know you are committed to The Salvation Army being an Army of salvation and doing everything in the name and power of Jesus Christ, and we are excited about that,” he said.

Commissioner Jan reiterated her commitment to serving the Lord and pledged to continue the work he has been doing in the territory.

“I also want to thank General Linda Bond for her inspirational leadership of this territory,” she said. “It’s a

privilege to follow her and have the opportunity to build on the Mission Priorities and the foundation she has set.”

Quoting Scripture from John 2, Commissioner Jan also encouraged the congregation to trust in and obey God and be assured of his mercy and grace. “Jesus promises us a rich and full life and we need to submit to his lordship in our lives,” she said. “Life is full of surprises and Jesus is able to do so much more than we could ever expect.”

Before addressing the congregation, Commissioner James presented Hannah Green with her Junior Soldier Crest Award Certificate. “This was one of the first letters I had to sign as Territorial Commander, so instead of posting it to you, I decided to present it to you in person tonight,” he told her.

Commissioner James then read the Bible from the book of Habakkuk, using the illustration to speak about renewal and just what it means to be The Salvation Army.

“Habakkuk recognised that the people needed reviving and that revival had to start with God,” he explained. “The people needed to be saturated with God and partner with him for that revival.”

Commissioner James shared that it was his prayer that The Salvation Army too, be renewed and revived.

“Before anything else, we too must start with God and be a community saturated with God and full of the Holy Spirit in our church and in our lives,” he said. “Let’s partner together to achieve God’s purposes in his Salvation Army.”

A moving rendition of My Tribute concluded the welcome meeting. The Brisbane City Temple Band and Impact Singers and Band, and Harmony in Song (Carindale Corps) provided worship music throughout the evening.

pipeline 05/2011 31

Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

Salvos youth run mission in immigration detention centre Six young people from the Australia Eastern Territory broke new ground when they became the first Salvation Army representatives to run a holiday program for children in an immigration detention centre. One of the Salvationists, ROBYN EVANS, relates for Pipeline her experience of a testing 10 days in the West Australian desert

T

he enthusiastic young Salvos who entered the Leonora Immigration Detention Facility all had previous experience in working with children, camps and coordinating programs, but there was nothing to prepare us for what lay ahead.

Much planning went into place, but there were many unknowns which were discovered on the journey.

Upon arrival at the facility, which is located 833km northeast of Perth, it became clear that we had made plans based on incomplete and sometimes incorrect information. A change in plans was not unexpected, but we discovered so many unknowns that we moved to a day-by-day planning system.

This was to ensure that we could accommodate the changing demands, the children’s needs and centre’s expectations.

Our induction to the centre was brief and our introduction to the children and the systems was even less, but nevertheless we adapted and worked with what we had. Our training for this mission was definitely on the job and happening right before our eyes, so we knuckled down, worked hard and seized every opportunity for adventure.

We didn’t have access to multiple areas that suited our purposes, it was too hot for sports during the day, the kids weren’t separated into age-appropriate groups and at times some staff were critical of our team’s efforts. But each of these issues were simply indicative of the unpredictable, everchanging nature of frontline mission and the need to adapt to the given environment. We needed to be responsive to and respectful of the interests of the target community, to be accommodating to staff and aware of the context in which we were operating.

We knew as a team it was important to work together and also enjoy each other’s company.

We would meet every morning for a devotional time as well as share lunch and dinner together to debrief, chat or just hang out. We also had a bit of fun ourselves in free time by swimming, hanging out and seeing some of the local sights. We knew that fellowship together was a vital part of being a strong unit and team that was serving others.

We heard and listened to many stories that were shared by

the children and parents that we got to know. Over the 10 days we were with them, many of them learnt to trust and respect us and allow us into a part of their story.

Hearing these stories and meeting the people helped us to see even further the injustice they were experiencing and that we were standing with them. We brought to them some relief from their reality, but ultimately their reality in an immigration detention facility remains. This is difficult for us to process, as so many of them want a life like we have and have risked their lives and all they have to live it, only to be bound by laws in a country that say “everyone should get a fair go”.

Although we could not change the system then and there, we could change the experience of the people through our love and service while we were there. Challenging the larger issue is one many of us are now even more spurred on to do.

Although it was challenging, it was also exciting and liberating to disregard everything we thought we knew and everything we had planned in exchange for a “play it by ear” and “draw on our faith” approach.

By taking this approach, we quickly learned to be flexible, resourceful and accommodating. If there was only one (immigration) officer we would combine the kids and do an activity enjoyable for all ages and genders. If it was too hot we would play sports at night rather than during the day.

When we were limited by the actions or attitudes of staff, we were able to be assertive and advocate for ourselves and our clients. We learned how to push forward even when things were hard, morale was low or when exhaustion was setting in. We were able to work as a team, live out a servant heart and have fun doing it.

The six members of the team (from left) Cameron Pethybridge, Charlotte James, Ilana Green, Robyn Evans, Sarah Moulds and John Williamson.

Sydney Youth Band seeking donations T

he Salvation Army Sydney Youth Band is asking for help to expand its music library, as well as other equipment and resources.

The band would appreciate hearing from anyone who can help with the donation of Salvation Army tune books, music bags, music stands, and Salvation Army and secular music charts.

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“We don’t have a big budget available to us so it would be a massive help and encouragement to us if people donated goods,” said Sydney Youth Band Leader Josh Mann.

All donations should be addressed to the Sydney Youth Band and sent to The Salvation Army Sydney East and Illawarra Divisional Headquarters at the following address: PO Box 740, Kingsgrove, NSW 1480.

Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

Busy weekend at St Mary’s Corps (Majors Tony and Yan DeTommaso)

T

he weekend of 5-6 March was a packed one for the St Mary’s SAGALA. Group leaders and 17 children visited Warragamba Dam on the Saturday where they worked on some of their outdoor badges, had a sleepover at the corps that night, and led a church parade in the meeting on the Sunday morning.

During the meeting the group put on a puppet show for the congregation. Corps Officer Major Tony DeTommaso also presented a certificate to Ray Gordon for completing his SAGALA leadership training.

The St Mary’s Corps, on 4 March, also invited guests from eight church denominations to join their meeting on the World Day of Prayer.

The World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of Christian women from many traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year in response to issues of concern around the globe. This year, women (and men) prayed for the poor and oppressed in Chile.

Through the World Day of Prayer, women affirm that prayer and action are inseparable and both have immeasurable influence in the world. Ladies from the St Mary’s Corps welcomed the 52 who attended the meeting with a Chilean dance, The Dance of the Bread Maker. Reverend Ken Hall from the Baptist church in St Mary’s was guest speaker.

7

(From left to right) Major Yan DeTommaso, Jackie Griffith, Belle Strain, Natalie Sullivan and Maureen Goodall prepare for their Chilean welcome dance.

KEYS LIVING TO

IN A

TIGHT-FISTED

WORLD

Guest Speaker: Rev Dr Brian Kluth Date:

Thursday 2nd June 2011 Time:

9:30am – 3pm Where:

Fairfield City Corps 473 Hamilton Road FAIRFIELD WEST Morning Tea, Lunch, Afternoon Tea supplied Open to anybody at no cost R.S.V.P: By 27th May 2011 Fiona Lines 02 9266 9817 fiona.lines@aue.salvationarmy.org

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Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

New initiative to tackle alcohol problem

By Auxillary-Captain Dr RAILTON HILL

I

n the bleak London of Salvation Army Founder General William Booth’s time there was a common saying – “drunk for a penny, blind drunk for tuppence”.

A similar environment exists today on the streets and in the homes of 21st-century Australia and, if he were alive today, General Booth would find much that was familiar to educate about and advocate against.

The Salvation Army way has always been not to just treat the symptoms of social ill, but to tackle, by creative means, its causes. The root cause of the many-faceted alcohol harm which degrades lives daily is the way we think about, feel and behave towards alcohol. The change needed, therefore, is ultimately cultural.

The Salvation Army has a long history of quality work in the area of alcohol addiction recovery. Salvationists and employees across its many territories and commands respond to and address various alcohol-related harm issues on a daily basis. However, there is rising awareness within the Army, the AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) sector and within the general community that the various facets of alcohol-related harm which affect Australian communities need to be addressed proactively through long-term cultural change – probably requiring effort over at least a 10-year period. Such change requires reform of the way Australians at every level think about alcohol.

The Salvo Alcohol Culture Initiative (SACi) has been established as a national initiative of the Army’s Australian Eastern and Southern territories specifically for this purpose.

There will be many opportunities for Salvationists throughout Australia to be involved in this great challenge.

The aim of the project is to challenge Australians to think

differently about alcohol, leading to a major reduction in the full range of types of alcohol-related harm. SACi aims to work carefully with other organisations of like mind, to proactively challenge the various types of alcohol-related harm in the community, in Jesus’ name. SACi will further resource and support Salvationists and employees in their work in this area.

This will be achieved by two means. Firstly, by (largely internal) education activities, such as an initial Learning Module, with a wide range of active localised mission activities resulting at individual corps and centre level. Secondly, SACi will undertake thoughtful (external) advocacy activity towards legislative or other change. SACi has a role in providing policy advice to senior Salvation Army leadership, and in actively pressing for reforms which reduce alcohol harm.

General Booth insisted that his troops have a sound knowledge of the problems they tackled, and that is the purpose of an initial SACi Learning Module. The preparation of this resource is well underway.

The module targets internal Army leadership, key gatekeepers, decision makers and stakeholders. It aims both to diffuse a strong evidence base concerning alcohol harm and what can be done to facilitate its long-term minimisation, and to build commitment and motivation to effective mission in this area.

This work will be costly. The major concern is with alcohol harm in its many forms, not with alcohol products per se.

However, we will doubtless be called “wowsers” and worse, none least by the powerful interests who profit from this harm.

We believe that the general public, and many national and state leaders, know better. They know that our concern is always for people who are abused and alienated, addicted and harmed weak, weary and wounded people.

the saci project

P

roject management of SACi is provided by Australia Southern Territorial Director, Auxillary-Captain Dr Railton Hill, and Australia Eastern Territory Mission Resource Team Director for Recovery Services, Major David Pullen.

A National SACi Panel (pictured) – a highly skilled group in areas of leadership, alcohol harm and recovery, business, education, community development, theology and mission – will advise on the project’s development.

Panel members from the Australia Eastern Territory are: Territorial Mission and Resource Clinical Director (Recovery) Gerard Byrne; Secretary for Program Lieut-Colonel Miriam Gluyas; Territorial Mission and Resource Director (Social) Major Paul Moulds; and head of Theology School for Christian Studies Major Dr Dean Smith.

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Southern Territory panel members are: Territorial Youth Secretary Captain Rowan Castle; Secretary for Program Lieut-Colonel Ian Hamilton; Mitcham Corps Officer Lieut Katie Parker; and Territorial AOD Project Worker Kathryn Wright.

Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

Week-long celebration to recognise reconciliation E

ach year, Reconciliation Australia, an independent, not-forprofit organisation that promotes reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians for the well-being of the nation, runs National Reconciliation Week.

This year, National Reconciliation Week is being held from 27 May-3 June.

National Reconciliation Week celebrates the rich culture and history of the first Australians. It’s an ideal time for people to think about how they can help turn around the disadvantaged situation of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Indigenous Ministry is a focus of The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory and accordingly, this is an opportunity for individuals to make it a focus for themselves as well.

According to Reconciliation Australia, reconciliation involves “building mutually respectful relationships between Indigenous and other Australians that allows us to work together to solve problems and generate success that is in everyone’s best interests.”

Achieving this involves “raising awareness and knowledge of Indigenous history and culture, changing attitudes that are

often based on myths and misunderstandings, and encouraging action where everyone plays their part in building a better relationship between us as fellow Australians”.

The theme for National Reconciliation Week this year is “Let’s Talk Recognition”. Reconciliation Australia is encouraging individuals, families, schools and other groups to:

• More deeply discuss the value of recognition and why it • •

is of particular importance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples; Hold events that recognise the importance of contributions that Indigenous Australians are making to your community; Join a national conversation about the value of recognition.

Recognition and reconciliation are connected. During National Reconciliation Week 2011, take some time to think about the value of recognition, what it means to you personally, its importance to the nation, and what you can do to change the status quo.

For resources and more information on the week of activities, go to www.reconciliation.org.au

Lismore youth take charge (Major Lindsay and Lieutenant Jenny Reeves)

H

ot potatoes were the flavour of the day when members of youth sections took charge of the Sunday morning worship service at Lismore Corps on 13 March.

To explain, reference to the humble spud is the name that’s been given to one of the groups in the revamped young people’s section of corps activities under the leadership of Corps Officers Major Lindsay and Lieutenant Jenny Reeves.

Supported by Junior Soldiers, the Hot Potatoes (junior high school-aged kids) wasted no time getting their congregation involved with some rousing songs and choruses, the climax being the message based on the first 20 verses of Ephesians 5.

Various points made by the Apostle Paul in the chapter were printed on paper and held up to the congregation which was encouraged to shout out either “bin” or “pin” – if the former, the sheet of paper went into the shredder, and if the latter, the sheet was pinned to a whiteboard.

The congregation responded again when asked to write on a piece of paper what aspect of their life they would like to “bin”, and put it through the shredder (on the Mercy Seat) then to light a candle at the Penitent Form to signify something positive for which they would like to thank the Lord. Nearly everyone came and shredded something and lit a candle.

Financial boost for Tuggerah autism program

By SIMONE WORTHING

F

ormer Wyong State Labor MP, David Harris, has presented a cheque for $12,000 to Tuggerah Lakes Salvation Army to provide services to assist young people suffering from autism.

“There is a great need in the northern part of the Wyong Shire to provide opportunities for children and youth with autism to improve their communication and ability to socialise, as well as supporting their parents,” Mr Harris said.

Corps Officer Captain Laithe Greenaway said the money would go towards employing a music therapist on a subcontract basis to help the children express themselves through music.

“We are very thankful for Talitha Brown, a soldier from the Parramatta Corps and registered music therapist, who is willing to drive up here each week and run the program,” he said.

More than 20 young people attend the program, which is

held at Tuggerah Lakes Corps, each week. The therapist sees three to four children at a time, so it takes a full day to work with all who come.

The local high school recommends young people for the program, as do local occupational and speech therapists. Preschoolers from the area are also attending in growing numbers.

“Volunteers from the corps come in to support the parents and help out,” Captain Greenaway said.

“We also have two mums from the corps who have children with autism, and they provide great support to the group.”

The program has attracted local media attention, including NBN TV, which filmed and ran a short segment on its local news.

“We are just so glad to help fill this need,” said Captain Greenaway. “As one of the mums said to me, ‘To have a child that can’t look you in the eye be able to sit there and sing a nursery rhyme with you is just amazing,’.”

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New mission launches in bowls club (Captains David and Rachel Busst)

“P

eople have many and varied ideas about God and church.

Sadly, they aren’t always positive,” said Captain Rachel Busst, Team Leader with her husband, Captain David Busst, at the Mackay Northern Beaches Mission.

“We hope people will come along to our church services and be pleasantly surprised by what they find,” said Captain David.

“The atmosphere is open, relaxed and inclusive and the services are contemporary, vibrant, relevant and family friendly.”

The Bussts and their mission team led the first public Sunday meeting at the Northern Beaches Bowls Club on 27 March.

“We had 55 people come and made some really great connections with first-time seekers and those wanting to have God back in their lives” said Captain Rachel.

“We have absolute faith God will grow his church here in the Northern Beaches and it’s exciting to see the way he is doing it.”

Central and North Queensland divisional leaders, Majors Rodney and Wendy Walters, the Mayor of Mackay Regional Council, Councillor Col Meng, the mission team, friends and families also attended the first meeting.

“We have a heart for the unchurched and want our church to be a place where a person off the street can come and feel relatively comfortable,” said Captain Rachel.

“The bowls club is both neutral and central; the perfect venue. And the community is right behind us. The response has been positive and people think what we’re doing is quite unique. Little do they realise [Salvation Army founder] William Booth held meetings in pubs and dance halls.”

A cafe-style set-up with a live band and contemporary music set the scene for the Northern Beaches first meeting. Captain David led a children’s time during the service before the young people left for creche or Kids Church.

“Everyone was invited to stay and chat over morning tea after the service,” said Captain David. “We wanted people to feel welcome and it was a good chance for us to connect with

them. We are very thankful for our great team and the way God has brought us all together.

“We have been meeting as a home church, building relationships, praying together and planning over recent months, so we were excited to be taking this next step.”

The Bussts have been in Mackay for more than a year now, working to get the Family Store up and running to support ministry and to get the church established.

“We’re originally from Emerald and we’ve always had a heart for Mackay,” said Captain Rachel. “We have no doubt the Lord has placed us here and that he will do an incredible work in this place.”

Major Rodney Walters, the Central and North Queensland Divisional Commander, spoke enthusiastically about the new mission.

“David and Rachel are natural evangelists, both with a strong faith and love for the Lord and the extension of his Kingdom,” he said.

“It was such a blessing to worship with them at the launch and to meet so many ‘first timers’. God has some exciting things in store for Mackay Northern Beaches.”

The cafe-style service at the bowls club attracted several new people to the Mackay Northern Beaches mission.

Captain David Busst took the opportunity to remind the children to hold on tightly to Jesus’ hand as they go through life.

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Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

Open doors church fills a void Young people making an (Major Sandra Lesar)

W

elfare Officer for The Salvation Army in Young, Laurel Merrin, would look at the closed doors of local churches and remember a time when they were always open and people could go inside at any time.

“Of course, churches can’t be open all the time anymore, but we wanted to open the doors of our church during the week and invite the community in,” explained Laurel, who coordinates Open Church.

Easter hats added colour to the Open Church meeting at Young Cluster under the direction of Major Sandra Lesar.

“So, four years ago, we began Open Church during the week and started with six people. We now have a wonderful midweek church family that continues to slowly grow.”

For Young Cluster Officer, Major Sandra Lesar, seeing God working in the lives of people who at one time received help from The Salvation Army and who now come alongside the team to serve others, is a real joy.

“Observing that people’s needs were being met encouraged us to begin the same ministry at Grenfell and later at Cootamundra, which are also part of the Young Cluster,” she said.

Around 100 people now attend Open Church each week across the three centres. The program always includes a devotion, Bible reading, prayer and time for fellowship.

“The program can also include music, quizzes, sing-a-longs and other activities,” said Major Lesar.

“In Cootamundra we provide lunch, Young offers morning tea and lunch, and in Grenfell it’s morning tea.”

The majority of people who attend Open Church are from the local communities, with only a few from Salvation Army corps’. The people who come are there for different reasons.

“Some are lonely and are looking for friendship and fellowship, others are isolated and without family nearby, and others want a safe place to worship,” said Laurel.

“This is a place anyone can come and be welcome and accepted. We are here to share God with these people.”

The Young Cluster is keen to develop the programs for Open Church further. “For now, though, we are meeting the needs of the community and going with the flow, but if we see an opportunity we will take it,” said Laurel.

impact in Brisbane M

ore than 250 young people descended on the The Salvation Army’s Stafford Corps in north-west Brisbane for ”Impact”, the South Queensland Division Youth Councils.

Living to serve the Lord”, taken from the Bible book of Joshua, was the theme for the weekend over 25-27 March.

“We wanted to empower and equip our young people to step out into leadership on the frontline,” said Captain Emma Johnson who, with her husband Captain Ben Johnson, serves as South Queensland Divisional Youth and Candidates Secretary.

The conference-style event opened on the Friday night with dynamic worship and introductions. The sessions, all based on Joshua, began on Saturday morning.

“Throughout the weekend we discussed being totally committed, being his [God’s], being in unity with other believers, and then being in service,” Captain Emma explained.

Three members of the Army’s Australia Eastern Territorial Youth Team attended ”Impact” and presented elective topics, along with members of the Divisional Impact Team.

Topics included: Sacred sex, Salvo distinctives, Christianity 101, how to tell your friends about Jesus, and what the Bible actually says about alcohol.

“Throughout the weekend, the divisional youth team gave away 15 Bibles and ‘starter kits’ for new Christians, nine people were saved, and 23 came forward for [Salvation Army] officership,” said Captain Emma.

A ministry expo offered a wide range of opportunities for the young people to sign up to, including 2012 mission projects.

“This was a Spirit-led weekend,” said Captain Emma. “There was unity and solidarity and special things happened through the electives, the sessions, conversations and worship. The kids also got a sense of a collective mission, of wanting to see their communities transformed by the power of Jesus.”

People from all over the South Queensland Division contributed to ”Impact”.

“Out of our organising team of 15 people, only five were aged over 25,” said Captain Emma. “I’d like to pay tribute to their knowledge and expertise.”

For more information on ministry opportunities, see www. salvos.org.au/edify/

Prayer was a strong theme of the weekend in Brisbane.

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ENROLMENTS

Hills Corps

O

n Sunday 20 March, two Junior Soldiers were enrolled by Cadet Lesley Newton at Hills Corps in Sydney.

Kayla Battersby and Madeline Loughhead had completed their Junior Soldier preparation classes with Corps Officer Captain Jodie Pethybridge, showing great interest and understanding of The Salvation Army and Jesus.

Pictured (from left) are Cadet Lesley Newton, Laurie Flood, Lorraine Williams, Kayla Battersby, Cassie Michaux and Madeline Loughhead.

Mackay Corps

M

ackay Salvation Army enrolled two new Senior Soldiers on Sunday 20 March.

Geoff and Kay Neale (pictured with Corps Officers Lieutenants Jeff and Terri Goodwin) after completing their soldiership course and studying The Salvation Army doctrines, said that they felt strongly led by God to do his mission.

Not content to be just pew warmers, Geoff and Kay wish to be used by God to build his church, to help save souls, grow saints, and serve suffering humanity.

Redcliffe City Corps

R

edcliffe City Corps has witnessed the enrolment of four new Senior Soldiers and the acceptance of an Adherent in recent weeks.

Jean Sivyer, Kate Turner and Juan Portillo have become soldiers for the first time while Elissa Portillo, having previously been a Salvationist, renewed her soldiership vows. Fred Eisemann has been accepted as an Adherent. Also, Melissa Hughes, after taking part in information classes held by Recruiting Sergeant Lieutnenant-Colonel Joyce Greentree, has

resumed wearing her soldier’s uniform. Each new soldier and Adherent testified to God’s leading in their lives. Pictured below with Corps Officer Major Bill Hutley are Elissa and Juan Portillo; and (below left) Melissa Hughes, Lieut-Colonel Joyce Greentree, Kate Turner, Jean Sivyer and Fred Eisemann.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

As one era ends ...

... another one begins

G

T

eneral Shaw Clifton received a fond farewell from the staff at The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters in London as he left the building on Friday, 1 April, for the final time before retirement.

He thanked the officers and employees who gathered to see him go, assuring them he and Commissioner Helen Clifton (World President of Women’s Ministries) would continue to pray for them and the Army’s new world leader, General Linda Bond.

Commissioner William Cochrane (International Secretary to the Chief of the Staff) offered thanks to God in prayer and spoke of the obvious warmth of feeling towards the retiring international leaders.

Also leaving International Headquarters was the General’s private secretary, Major Richard Gaudion, who will soon take up another appointment in the UK. During the past five years under the leadership of General Clifton, the work of The Salvation Army has expanded into 12 new countries. During his term, the General also established The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission, based in New York, and the Army’s Centre for Spiritual Life Development in London.

General Shaw Clifton is driven away from International Headquarters by Major Richard Gaudion. Photo: Paul Harmer

Webber book up for award A

book published by The Salvation Army and written by a Salvation Army officer has been shortlisted for Christianity magazine’s prestigious Book of the Year award.

Major Howard Webber’s book Meeting Jesus: Inspiring Stories of Modern-Day Evangelism, is down to the final five, with the winner to be announced on 13 June.

Major Webber has been a frequent contributor to Salvation Army periodicals, but Meeting Jesus is the first book he’s had published by The Salvation Army.

It was released in October 2010 under the UK Territory’s Shield Books label.

He believes this nomination is unique for a Salvation Army book in the UK, but added: “My prayer is that it might result in a wider readership of the book and, more importantly, that people will be motivated and souls saved.”

Major Webber’s book is up against strong competition, with others in the shortlist written by Alister McGrath, Francis Chan with Danae Yankoski, Mark Greene and Gregory Boyd.

Information about all the books – together with an opportunity to – can be found on Christianity magazine’s website: www.christianitymagazine.co.uk/bookoftheyear2010

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here was an authentic sense of joy and warm friendship at The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters in London when the Army’s new world leader, General Linda Bond, was welcomed on Monday, 4 April.

This holy joy was evident right from the effervescent opening, led by Commissioner Sue Swanson (World President of Women’s Ministries), to the thoughtful benediction by Commissioner William Cochrane (International Secretary to the Chief of the Staff). It came through the prayers, Scripture reading (Psalm 134), welcome talks, music and through General Bond’s words.

In her first message as world leader the General emphasised the blessing of God, living totally for Jesus, thankfulness, the importance of serving others, Christian accountability regarding behaviour, wise use of authority and the value of teamwork.

As she spoke to International Headquarters (IHQ) officers, staff and invited guests, Canadian-born General Bond revealed that her mother was English and “when I was previously appointed to IHQ in 1995 as under-secretary for personnel it felt like coming home. It is no different now.”

The General said she counted it a blessing to serve God at IHQ. “In fact, everyone who serves at IHQ is blessed because we have the mission of serving the world. Everyone here makes a difference to the worldwide Salvation Army,” she said.

“It is vital that we serve the world with gratitude and attitude. We need to be grateful and thankful to God for his blessings. We also need to serve with a caring attitude because it is the love of God that compels us.”

Regarding her new position, General Bond said she held it with respect and dignity, but she held it lightly because “the power the Lord has given me as General is delegated authority.

It is a power for people – not power over people. I live for Jesus and all the praise, power and glory belong to him.”

Earlier in the meeting, Commissioner Barry Swanson, the Chief of the Staff, presented the General with the framed Certificate of Election that had been signed by all members of the 2011 High Council that elected General Bond.

Among the invited guests for the occasion were retired General John Larsson, Commissioners Freda Larsson and Gisèle Gowans and United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland territorial leaders Commissioners John and Betty Matear.

General Linda Bond is welcomed to IHQ by the Chief of the Staff Commissioner Barry Swanson and the World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Sue Swanson. Photo: Paul Harmer

Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Salvation Army at work in devastated Japan C ommissioner Makoto Yoshida, Commander of The Salvation Army’s Japan Territory, has reported that the country’s recovery from a devastating earthquake and tsunami is “going well”, although ongoing problems at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station continue to cause ‘some uneasiness among the people’.

Commissioner Yoshida said that everyday goods, including fuel, are becoming easier to obtain and that around 70 per cent of roads in the disaster zone have now been reopened. He added that the search for missing people is proving to be difficult.

Officials report that 15,000 people are still missing, in addition to the 12,000 people known to have been killed in the disaster. Around 166,000 people had to be evacuated from their homes.

The Salvation Army has continued to help where needed, providing meals and other necessities particularly in the area around Sendai. Power and water have now been restored in Sendai so the Army is likely to scale back its work there, although it may continue to provide assistance to needy areas Salvation Army volunteers prepare food for distribution in Sendai. north of the city. distributed food and water in response to a request from the The story is similar in Yabuki-cho, where Major Kenji Fujii director of the emergency response volunteer desk. and Captain Kazuyuki Ishikawa met the mayor, who reported Kesen-numa, about 120km north of Sendai, was badly that many houses that look fine from the outside actually damaged by the tsunami. The corps officer from Sendai suffered significant damage and will have to be demolished. contacted a minister in Kesen-numa and discovered that the Recently installed water pipelines for agricultural usage community needed support. Two Salvation Army emergency were destroyed, leading to the loss of the next rice harvest – a teams carried out daily distributions of food and other significant part of the area’s economy. necessities in mid-April.

The Salvation Army emergency team has left goods in About 30km north-east of Kesen-numa is the coastal storage, to be used as necessary. The community has also been community of Rikuzen-Takada, which was badly damaged by told that the Army would provide support in the future if the tsunami. A Salvation Army team distributed hot meals and requested. water there, while also investigating how it could offer further At Iwaki-city, which is just outside the 30km exclusion zone assistance. from Fukushima, a team of seven Salvation Army workers

International Doctrine Council meets in US

By Lieut-Colonel KAREN SHAKESPEARE

T

he Salvation Army’s International Doctrine Council (IDC) met at Lake Junaluska, North Carolina, USA, from 23-26 March 2011.

The meeting followed a bilateral dialogue with representatives of the World Methodist Council – the fourth such gathering – which included some IDC members.

Major Elsa Oalang (The Philippines Territory) and Captain Milon Dias (Bangladesh Command) were welcomed to their first meeting as members of the IDC. The council comprises members from each of the five Salvation Army zones - including the Australia Eastern Territory’s Lieutenant-Colonel Philip Cairns and Major Alan Harley - which ensures that the perspective of different cultures and Salvation Army traditions is represented in discussion.

During the meeting work on a number of writing projects was reviewed and discussed as the IDC seeks to explore ways in which Salvation Army doctrine can be effectively communicated and taught.

The International Doctrine Council gathers in North Carolina

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promoted to glory

Valiant soldier

E

nvoy Russell Marsh was promoted to glory on 23 February, aged 92.

A committal service was held at Rookwood Crematorium and conducted by Lieutenant Colonel Peter Laws.

During the committal service, Scripture was read by granddaughter Sandra Waaka before the family tribute was brought by Russell’s son Maxwell. The Five Dock Returned Services League (RSL) subbranch also paid tribute to Russell’s Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) service during World War II and presented to the family a record of Russell’s service.

Following the committal service, a Remembrance Service was held at Petersham Corps where Russell was a soldier. Tributes were given on behalf of the grandchildren and great grandchildren

by Sandra Waaka and Simon Bringans.

A representative from Croydon Park Public School read several letters from students acknowledging his service to the school over many years as a school crossing supervisor before Maxwell Marsh presented the family tribute. Scripture was read by son-in-law Tom McDonald, who read from Russell’s well-used Bible, and niece Captain Marianne Schryver before Lieutenant Colonel Peter Laws brought the message. Musical support was given by a combined band with members drawn from Petersham, Parramatta and the community.

Russell Edward Marsh was born in Campsie, Sydney, on 17 August, 1918, to Edward and Ivy Marsh. He was the eldest of six children.

In 1938 Russell married Joyce Tamina and at the start of 1940 he joined the RAAF and served in Australia and overseas.

After his discharge from the RAAF in 1946 he worked in several jobs as a salesman.

Russell was a dedicated Salvationist having been converted along with his parents at an early age at Parramatta Corps. He later attended Enfield, Burwood and Petersham Corps where he was actively involved in all corps as a bandsman and young people’s sergeantmajor for many years.

In 1986 as a Divisional Envoy Russell was appointed to Five Dock Corps where he served initially for five years and again from 1998.

He also served as chaplain at Camperdown Children’s Hospital for 18 years where he touched the hearts and comforted many people who had very sick children.

Russell was also an active Rotarian and was made a Paul Harris Fellow in

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1991 and awarded a Commonwealth Recognitions Award for Senior Australians and the Centenary medal in 2000.

Russell and Joyce had two children.

There are 13 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

End of an era

T

he promotion to glory of Ron Butcher on 8 February at age 89, marked the end of an era for the Parramatta Corps in Sydney. Ron was the corps bus driver for nearly 50 years.

Ronald Arthur (Ron) Butcher was born on 11 July, 1921. A fitter and turner by trade, Ron was employed at what is known now as State Rail. He was introduced to the Salvation Army at Parramatta when he married Betty Martin and was enrolled as a senior soldier on 22 March, 1944.

Ron was generous with his time and ability, serving the Lord as a drummer, Sunday School teacher and treasurer, but is best remembered as the corps bus driver.

He faithfully drove and maintained the buses for half a century, taking children to and from Sunday School each week and also to Sunday School picnics, camps and SAGALA activities. He also drove for the monthly Golden Years (Seniors) outings.

Major Bill Mole conducted the “Celebration of Life” service for Ron. Prayer was offered by James Loughhead (great nephew) and there was a Scripture reading (John 14: 1-4, 25-27) by granddaughter Shellea Lorenz, who had also prepared a printed tribute. Shellea mentioned the close relationship she and her brothers, Branton and Jay, had with their grandad, spending time with him at the caravan park at Shoalhaven every school holidays, watching him create things in his home garage and marvelling at his expertise as a bus driver.

After retiring from the railways in the 1970s, Ron became a regular at familyowned Baxter’s Bus Lines. Garry Baxter paid tribute to Ron, noting his meticulous care of all those who travelled on the buses he drove and of the vehicles themselves. A number of drivers attended the service.

In representing the corps, Envoy George Hazell (OF) told of his first contact with Ron when he came to the corps in 1951. George said Ron was not an attention seeker or a complainer. He knew all the children personally, was punctual each week in collecting them from and returning them to their homes. George also referred to the line of a chorus “Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful”.

George said this was true of Ron and urged those present to think about their own lives.

In his message Major Mole referred to

2 Corinthians 5:1 in which Paul speaks of “the tent we live in” and said “I believe that Ron, too, had come to the stage where he longed for a more permanent place.

In John 14 Jesus said “Trust in God ... I am going to prepare a place for you.” He was saying “Look, I know that life here is transient. I am going to prepare a place which is permanent and I will take you to be with me.”

There came a time when Ron said, “I want to be sure of my eternal home.”

Ron’s wish would be that we each enjoy a personal relationship with God and the assurance of meeting again.

Loved by all

D

ulcie Bayfield was promoted to glory on 25 September, 2010, aged 72. The funeral service was held at Inala Corps, in Brisbane’s south-west, and was conducted

by Major Denice Strong.

Dulcie’s brother Jon Bennett gave a family tribute and neighbours and friends also gave moving tributes. This included a story from one of Dulcie’s greatest admirers, her young neighbour, who said that if Dulcie died “God must need her more than he did.”

Dulcie was born on 7 May, 1938, in Townsville and was brought up in the Church of England. She attended South Townsville State School and on leaving worked at Coles in the delicatessen.

Dulcie married William Henry Bayfield in October 1958 and gave up work in 1965 to care for her ailing husband. William was promoted to glory in July 1979.

After William died, Dulcie grew close to William’s brother Jim and the two of them wrote regularly. Jim would take holidays in Townsville, visiting Dulcie. In late 1980, Jim proposed to Dulcie who responded immediately with a “yes”. They were married on 17 January, 1981, and moved to Acacia Ridge in Brisbane.

It was then that Dulcie started attending the Salvation Army, going at first to Brisbane City Temple. But Dulcie preferred a smaller corps so they moved to the Acacia Ridge outpost in 1983. Dulcie had begun attending Home League in 1981 and became the Tea Sergeant.

In 1992, Dulcie started attending the Home League at Inala Corps and this prompted a move for both her and Jim to the Inala Salvation Army Corps in 1993.

In 1995, Dulcie became the Home League secretary and coordinator at Inala, a role she kept right up until her passing.

In 1993, Dulcie and Jim also became League of Mercy members, visiting nursing homes in the area and making many friends. Dulcie also served as Inala’s Welcome Sergeant for eight years and would often joke about her “cold hands”

Fr o m t h e c o a l f a c e L O CA L A N D I N T E R N AT ION A L N E W S

promoted to glory which she seemed to always have.

Dulcie also was a SAGALA leader and Kids Club leader from 2000-2004.

She became a soldier at Inala on 19 November, 2006. Dulcie had a love for children and she would take extra copies of the Kid Zone magazine to share with her neighbour’s children who loved her in return.

Dulcie was well loved by all who knew her and is dearly missed.

Dedicated service

E

lizabeth (Beth) Stoodley was promoted to glory from the Canberra Oasis Corps on 27 October, 2010, aged 64, after a long illness.

The crematorium service was conducted by Major Ray Allen (brother-in-law) assisted

by Majors Stuart and Donna Evans (former corps officers at Canberra City Oasis).

The thanksgiving service was conducted by Major Stuart Evans at a packed Canberra Oasis Corps citadel.

Major Peter Holley offered a prayer before a tribute was given by Beth’s

long-time friend Joy Woodbury. Beth’s grandchildren, Helena, Peter and Andrea, related some of their memories of their Nana before Beth’s sons, Paul and Mark, recalled some humorous incidents from her life. They also emphasised their mother’s strong relationship with Jesus Christ and the evidence of that relationship in her daily life.

Beth’s husband, Warren, spoke with passion of her influence on the life of the family, and many people associated with Canberra City Oasis Corps and in particular the men who have been part of the Recovery Services Program. Canberra City Oasis Corps Officer Captain Tim Gittins brought the Scripture reading.

Major Donna Evans, in her message, spoke of the sincere friendship with Beth and her dedication to her responsibilities within the corps.

Elizabeth Ann Clark was born on 18 March, 1946, to Frank and Ruby Clarke at Armidale, NSW – a sister to Dorise. As her parents were Salvation Army officers, Beth moved frequently throughout NSW and Queensland.

She commenced school at Warwick

about people Promoted to glory

Major Russell Lewis on 28 March; Major Karl Banks on 1 April.

Retirements

Major Ellen McMellon on 3 April; Captains Mervyn and Maryann Dovey on 3 April; Major Don Hill on 1 May; Major Mavis Stevens on 15 May.

time to pray 1-7 May

Katharine Dale, Ghana Territory; Glen Innes Corps, Gosford Corps, Goulburn Corps, all NSW; Gold Coast Recovery Services Centre (Fairhaven), Gold Coast Temple Corps, both Qld; Red Shield Defence Services Management Conference (5-6); Mother’s Day (8); Children and Youth Decision Week (8-15).

8-14 May

Grafton Corps, Granville Corps, Greater Liverpool Corps, Griffith Corps, Gunnedah Corps, all NSW; Greenslopes Community Welfare Centre, Qld; Newcastle and Central New South Wales Division Women Officer’s Retreat Day (9); Sydney College of Divinity Graduation (11); South Queensland Division Officer Kids Day (14).

15-21 May

Uganda Command; Gympie Corps, Hervey Bay Corps, both Qld; Hannam Vale, Hawkesbury City Corps, Hills Corps, Hopedale House Gunnedah, all NSW; Evangelist Network Conference.

22-28 May

Majors Kim and David Hawke, Zimbabwe Territory; Hornsby Gateway Corps, Hunter Region Recovery Services, Hurstville Corps, St George Community Welfare Centre, all NSW; Horton Village, Qld; Human Resources Department, THQ; Red Shield Appeal (28-29).

and after completing her education at Orange, she commenced work at the Department of Social Security in Orange.

When her parents were transferred to Taree, Beth worked for a while as a nurse at Marrickville Hospital in Sydney, then moved to Taree and was employed with the Bank of New South Wales. She later moved back to Sydney and became part of the Bank of NSW Public Relations Department.

In 1968, Beth and Warren were married at Wollongong. Beth, Warren and Paul, born in 1971, moved to Canberra in January 1972 and became heavily involved in the Canberra City Temple Corps. Greg was born in 1973 and Mark two years later.

Beth sang in the songsters at the corps and held positions as evening fellowship secretary, young people’s sergeant-major, and recruiting sergeant.

In 2004, Beth was part of the ministry team at Canberra City Corps, organising prayer ministry and Christian education courses and other programs.

Over the past five years, Beth struggled with health issues which restricted her activity in the corps and life in general.

29 May – 4 June

Major Mark Watts, International Headquarters; Illawarra Community Welfare Centre, NSW; Inala Community Welfare Centre, Inala Corps, Inner City West Mission, all Qld; Information Technology Department, THQ; South Queensland Division Kids Camp (3-5).

6-11 June

Inner West Aged Care Services, Inverell Corps, Job Link, all NSW; Internal Audit Department, THQ; Ipswich Community Welfare Centre, Ipswich Corps, both Qld; Pentecost (12).

engagement calendar Commissioners James Condon (Territorial Commander) and Jan Condon Toowoomba: Sat 30-Sun 1 May – Toowoomba Corps 125th Anniversary, South Queensland Division *Parramatta: Thu 5 May – RSA Opening at Parramatta, Rydges Hotel at Rosehill Long Jetty: Sun 15 May – Retirement Service Meeting for Major Mavis Stevens at Long Jetty Corps, Newcastle and Central Coast Division *Sydney: Sat 21 May – 2011 Sydney College of Divinity Graduation Ceremony, The Great Hall, Sydney University Sydney: Sat 28-Sun 29 May – Red Shield Appeal *Commissioner James only #Commissioner Jan only

Colonels Wayne (Chief Secretary) and Robyn Maxwell UK: Mon 9-Fri 13 May – International Headquarters Orientation #Hong Kong/China: Fri 20-Thu 26 May – International Development Project Visit Sydney: Sat 28-Sun 29 May – Red Shield Appeal Doorknock # Colonel Robyn only * Colonel Wayne only

pipeline 05/2011 43

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