Ready for Revival

ISSUE NO.13 — SPRING 2026

‘Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?’

Psalm 85:6 MESSAGE FROM SASRA’S NEW PRESIDENT, MAJ GEN DAN REEVE MC A QUIET REVIVAL IN THE RANKS EXERCISE RHINO HEART GERMANY sasra.org.uk

READY The Journal of The Soldiers’ and Aviators’ Scripture Readers Association PATRON His Majesty the King PRESIDENT Major General Dan Reeve MC VICE PRESIDENTS Lady Farmer Major General Sir Laurence New CB, CBE Brigadier W I C Dobbie CBE Colonel E B L Armitstead CBE PRESIDENT EMERITUS General The Lord Dannatt of Keswick in the County of Norfolk GCB CBE MC DL CHAIRMAN Col (Retd) John Lewis EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM HEADQUARTERS  Havelock House Barrack Road Aldershot Hampshire GU11 3NP  03000 301 302  admin@sasra.org.uk EDITOR Martin Gliniecki SUB-EDITOR Sandrina de Klerk Registered charity in England & Wales 235708, in Scotland SC039130.

READY FOR REVIVAL

Company limited by guarantee; Registered in England No. 329268.

ISSN 13580507.

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.  sasra.org.uk

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EDITORIAL

READY FOR REVIVAL

Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM, Editor

The 2025 Bible Society’s report of a ‘Quiet Revival’ has been acclaimed and refuted in similar measure and everyone has a view. This edition illustrates what SASRA is witnessing.

Our motto, Matthew 24:44, calls us all to be constantly ready and in Luke 10:2, we read Jesus saying to His disciples: ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’ Jesus is describing the many people ready to receive the gospel (the harvest) and the shortage of workers willing to share it (labourers). His instruction is clear: pray that God will raise up and send more workers into His mission field. And in SASRA, He did just that with help from supporters.

Every Scripture Reader is witnessing something—interest in meaning, purpose and questions about faith. The Lord has increased Reader numbers substantially recently, and we stepped out in faith to share the gospel, trusting Him to do the rest. Some activities such as increased baptisms that we are witnessing disprove the naysayers and you will read in this edition of the personal evangelism that our Readers participate in, with greater engagement and commitment by those soldiers and aviators that they meet.

As well as Scripture Reader updates, our new President, Maj Gen Dan Reeve MC, whose picture is on our front cover, writes about his faith in the Army. As well as revival, there is refurbishment in the case of the Jackson Club, which SASRA reopened on 19 January 2026, under a new management©that has given our Scripture Reader access to the famous club in Gibraltar Barracks. Our Prayer Coordinator, Alice Woodward shares the importance of prayer for the Association and in her own life, and I write about honouring SASRA’s past and inspiring its future. Our new part-time Serving Members Secretary, paratrooper veteran Ronnie Douglas introduces himself and Regional Manager (North), Andy McMahon writes about his experience on Exercise RHINO HEART, and how God used him to share the gospel. Finally, and very sadly, we say farewell to several stalwarts of SASRA. I hope that reading this edition will be an encouragement, and that supporter prayers, volunteering and gifts are reaping rewards for Kingdom growth. So please enjoy and contact us at admin@sasra.org.uk if you have any comments or you would like to submit an article for our autumn edition.

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Message from SASRA’s New President 6 A Quiet Revival in the Ranks 8 Perfect Love 10 Biblical Revival 11 Return to Wattisham 14 Under New Management: Jackson Club 15 One Mission, Different Fronts 16 Prayer Makes a Difference 17 Ready for Opportunities 18 Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future 20 Invaluable Relationships 4

21 New Serving Members Secretary 22 Revival Born from Persistent Prayer 23 Is there Quiet Revival in Northern Ireland?

25 Testimony SSgt Warren Mitchell 26 Shaping Conditions 30 End of a Season 31 Faithful Generosity in the Lord 32 Supporter Letters and Announcements 33 Last Posts 38 Glossary 39 Headquarters Staff 40 Scripture Reader Locations

Front cover photo: SASRA’s new President Maj Gen Dan Reeve MC on deployment. © SASRA

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CONTENTS

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Message from

SASRA’S NEW PRESIDENT ‘For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.’ (Philippians 1:21) Paul’s famous words resonate with me as a serving member of the Armed Forces for at least three reasons.

First, they come from the pen of someone who knew what it meant to face death. We don’t know exactly what was going through Paul’s mind when he wrote to the church in Philippi, but we do know that he was in prison and we know that he was hoping that Christ would be exalted in his body, ‘…whether by life or by death’. It seems reasonable to conclude that, as he was writing, Paul was reflecting on what might be about to happen to him, including the possibility that he might face premature death.

Second, they appeal to the positive and

competitive nature that all soldiers and aviators must have. Where many people in Paul’s situation might feel a sense of self-pity, Paul’s attitude was exactly the opposite. He recognised the wonderful win-win situation that all of us who are Christians find ourselves in. While we live, we have a clear purpose, which is to live for Christ. And when our time comes to die, whenever that may be and by whatever means, we can be confident—by God’s grace, through faith in Christ and His work on the cross—that we will be with Christ for ever. Third, Paul’s call to live a purposeful life for Christ means living a life that is aligned with the values and standards of the British Army and Royal Air Force.

READY FOR REVIVAL

‘I am convinced that the work of SASRA has never been more relevant.’

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UK MOD © Crown copyright 2024

© SASRA

Maj Gen Dan Reeve MC , President

Major General Dan Reeve MC, pictured here and on the front cover on operations, is currently serving as the Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff for Operations and Commitments.

He has deployed operationally in Europe, Southeast Asia, North and East Africa, and the Middle East, and has commanded the 1st (United Kingdom) Division, the 6th (United Kingdom) Division, 77th Brigade and Third Battalion the Rifles. He was Chief Joint Force Operations from 2021 to 2023, commanding the Joint Task Forces that deployed to Turkey and Sudan. Outside of his military roles, he served as Chief of Staff to No 10 Downing Street’s Executive Director for Communications and was seconded to the Cabinet Office.

As well as being president of SASRA, Dan is patron of the Cornelius Trust and Defence Christian Network Champion.

He is married to Jenny. They have two children and live in the countryside in the south of England.

sasra.org.uk

Our core values and standards call for us to have the same humility, integrity, respect for others and selfless attitude that Paul ascribes to Christ and commends to the church members in Philippi.

For 188 years, SASRA has been answering Jesus’ call to ‘be ready’ by working to ensure that the serving personnel of the British Army and Royal Air Force all hear the gospel that underpins Paul’s assertion that ‘…to live is Christ and to die is gain.’ As I consider the ever more complex and dangerous world that we find ourselves in, I am convinced that the work of SASRA has never been more relevant. Working alongside, and in support of, our military chaplains, a growing number of uniformed SASRA Scripture Readers continue to encourage serving personnel that they need not fear death but can instead live for Christ a purposeful life that brings real meaning to the core values and standards of the British Army and Royal Air Force.

For this reason, I am humbled to have taken on the role of President of SASRA last year. It is a real privilege to see SASRA grow from strength to strength and so I want to thank you all for your support and prayers. I know that many of you have been supporting the essential work of SASRA for many years. Your support and prayer mean an awful lot to those of us who are serving and it has never been more relevant. I especially want to thank the amazing team of staff we have in Havelock House and our dedicated and hard-working Scripture Readers who are on the frontline of our charity’s work.

Your work has eternal significance.

Finally, whatever circumstances you find yourself in, and wherever you are in the world, I hope that you feel able to join with me in acknowledging that ‘For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.’

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A Quiet Revival in the Ranks —

SASRA’S RESPONSE

‘Go therefore and make disciples…baptising…’ (Matthew 28:19)

READY FOR REVIVAL

In the spring of 1984, HM Forces were committed to the Cold War and Operation BANNER in Northern Ireland (NI). Of the 326,000 UK Armed Forces, over 50,000 were permanently stationed in Germany, as part of the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR), and around 16,000 in NI. SASRA employed 12 salaried Army/ Aviator Scripture Readers (ASRs), including three in Germany and one in NI (there were a further six volunteer ASRs in NI). Major General (later Sir) Laurence New and Colonel (later Brigadier) Ian Dobbie were Council members.

By 2024, the UK Armed Forces had reduced to around 138,000, having deployed honourably to multiple conflicts around the world, including the Balkans, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Counter-terrorism operations in NI and on the mainland continued well past the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 but Operation

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In one month alone, 26 recruits were baptised at ATR Winchester’s chapel.

Lee and Debbie with baptised recruits

BANNER officially ended in 2007. While ASR volunteers reduced to nil over those years, SASRA still employed 13 salaried ASRs, a level that had remained steady over the intervening years. Credit is due to those involved in sustaining SASRA’s ministry over these 40 changing years, and notwithstanding the ever-increasing secularisation and adherence to restricting legislation and regulation; SASRA remained faithful, prayerful and never compromised the gospel to fit the age.

Throughout these four decades, our Saviour will have watched over us and tested our faith, intention and trust in Him; in witnessing our prayerful reliance on Him, He will have laid the foundations for the rapid growth in ASRs, from 13 to 21 in just two years from 2024, with more to come. We can now reflect that our foreknowing God had planned this to enable more SASRA engagement in

today’s revival that we see in our Armed Forces and is being witnessed across the UK. As we read in Isaiah 57:15, God dwells ‘with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.’

Reflecting that revival is apparently more prevalent in the young, one remarkable example is the movement that continues to unfold at the Army Training Regiment (ATR) Winchester, where new recruits undergo their 13-week basic training course. Alongside marching, shooting, map reading, fitness and fieldcraft, trainees are encountering something even more powerful, namely the gospel.

Over the last year, many recruits have shown a real desire to seek meaning and purpose in their lives; the work of ASR Lee Philipson, sharing the gospel, has shown to be transformative. In one month alone, 26 recruits were baptised at ATR Winchester’s chapel, where Lee works full time. At these baptisms, hundreds of colleagues come and attend voluntarily.

So, we are moving several Scripture Readers into training establishments where possible, to meet the call.

But we recognise that baptism is only part of the journey and our ASRs are keen to ensure the discipleship of these young converts and growth in their faith.

As they move from training into active service, alongside their RAF brothers and sisters, our ASRs and serving partners

will be ready to support them, wherever they are posted, because we know that they will be tempted. Yes, Scripture tells us to expect opposition for our faith, but passages such as John 5:24 assures us that salvation is by faith alone: ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.’

So, ‘God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew’ (Romans 11:2) and we at SASRA stepped out in faith, fully trusting in the Lord, while acknowledging that none of this would be possible without our faithful partners, supporters, donors, volunteers, churches and trusts. Their prayers, time and generosity grew this gospel ministry to our Armed Forces, at a time of revival, spiritual awakening and great need—a new harvest. We thank God for those of you that heard our request and prayerfully reacted to our call to share the gospel with more of our troops at a time of great uncertainty in the world.

If you are new to SASRA, we invite you to join us. Pray. Volunteer. Fundraise. Give.

Together, we are sharing the greatest story ever told with those who serve us!

By Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM, Executive Director

‘Hello, I’m Recruit Bains at ATR Winchester. I would just like to say I’m more than happy to be devoting my life to Jesus and to be a born-again Christian. Thank you very much.’

‘I’m Jessica Diggle. Today I’m taking a step of faith trusting God with my whole life. I’m grateful for His love, grace, and the people He’s brought into my life.’

Please pray for these recruits as they continue to follow Jesus, and for all those who attended but don’t know Christ as their Saviour.

To watch a video of the baptisms, scan the QR code or go to https://vimeo.com/1170277252/c8acc91074

sasra.org.uk

On 19 October 2025, 14 young recruits confessed Jesus Christ through baptism. This is a short message from two of them:

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Perfect LOVE

READY FOR REVIVAL

The Bible says love drives out fear.

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It was around six o’clock on a Thursday morning that I pulled up to the Chaplaincy Centre in Lyneham. As I went in, I quickly set up a toaster, laid out some plates and got the coffee machine ready. That morning, five soldiers from the same course were coming to my office to study the Bible with me.

I took a couple of Bibles from my bookshelf and laid them on the table.

Then, I picked up my Bible and turned to John 6:44, ‘No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.’ For a moment I paused and reflected on God’s wonderful grace—that He would use me as a means of drawing these young men to Himself. I then turned to the book of Romans, which we were studying together.

Within a few minutes, the guys arrived.

They each grabbed a couple of slices of toast. I had brought in a loaf Sanne, my wife, had baked the day before, which they all love. The coffee machine was working hard in the background and this was the first morning all six of us had met together.

About a month earlier, I started meeting with Sam who I met at ‘Tea and Toast’, a weekly gathering we hold every Tuesday morning in the Chaplaincy Centre. Anyone is welcome and the Welfare Team helps provide tea and toast for anywhere between 50 and 120 soldiers who drop in for a quick bite. Within moments of meeting, we were talking about the authenticity of the Bible. Sam shared that he had been to church a couple of times.

After our conversation, I invited him to read through a book of the Bible with me.

In our first meeting, we looked at the Gospel of Mark. We read a few chapters and talked them through together. Just before he left, I suggested he finish reading up to chapter ten and bring any

By Tiaan de Klerk, Scripture Reader, MOD Lyneham

questions next time. The following week, he came back saying he’d read the whole book and had several questions, which we talked through. As he was leaving, he asked if he could bring a friend with him.

‘Great,’ I said. ‘Please do. Next week we’ll look at one of the letters the Apostle Paul wrote.’

The following week, Sam and Drew came along. They had so many questions that we only covered the first verse of Romans.

I explained that the Bible teaches that Jesus bought us with His precious blood, and that when we come to Christ, we are no longer our own. We spent a long time discussing what it meant to belong to God at such a great cost, reflecting on how much we care for things that cost us a lot of money, and how much more God will care for that which cost Him so much.

The following week, Sam and Drew brought two more friends from their course. It was just as well we were moving slowly through Romans, as it gave me time to briefly explain what we had already covered. The following week they brought another friend. Over time, all five of the guys I had been meeting with had professed faith in Jesus. They had started attending a local church and

Drew turned to me and said, ‘The way I see it, if we as Christians are ashamed of the gospel, then one or both of two things must be true: either we don’t really believe it ourselves, or we don’t love God and people enough to tell them about it.’

were reading God’s word for themselves.

As we reflected on Romans 1:16, we talked about why Christians are sometimes ashamed of the gospel, and why the Apostle Paul was not. Drew turned to me and said, ‘The way I see it, if we as Christians are ashamed of the gospel, then one or both of two things must be true: either we don’t really believe it ourselves, or we don’t love God and people enough to tell them about it.’ He then quoted a verse he’d read a few days

earlier, though he couldn’t remember where. In his own words, he said, ‘The Bible says love drives out fear.’

I said to Drew, ‘You’re right, brother. In 1 John 4:18 it says, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”’

When we love God, we will love people. And when we love God and people, we won’t be ashamed or fearful in pointing others to Jesus.

It truly is amazing to see how God is drawing these young men to Himself. It is a reminder that the Lord has called all of us who trust in Him out of darkness and into His marvellous light.

‘But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.’ (1 Peter 2:9)

Early mornings in the Scripture Reader’s Office

The Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) Chaplaincy team, comprising Reverend Swanston, Reverend Rogers and Scripture Reader de Klerk, has been awarded an Air Officer Commanding (AOC) commendation for their work by Air Vice‑Marshal Ian Sharrocks CBE. The award was given for the collective work of the chaplaincy department at Lyneham, with the commendation including: ...the daily tempo of Chaplaincy interventions, linked to discipline and welfare is significant. The scale and range of issues are expansive. The team fulfil a busy and demanding role, and

in many situations, it is the Chaplaincy team which is used to unlock the challenging cases at a personal level.

Throughout this period the team have proactively delivered wider Defence outputs at MOD and International level.

High praise indeed for such selfless and humble work. Not only is this recognition of the work of the three individuals, but it also shows what can be achieved when chaplaincy and SASRA relationships are strong. What is also true is that ASR Tiaan de Klerk’s work is grounded solely in the gospel, which he shares without compromise, in whatever issue he faces. Well done Tiaan!

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MOD LYNEHAM CHAPLAINCY AOC 22 GROUP 2ª TEAM COMMENDATION

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Biblical

REVIVAL

How does the Bible understand ‘revival’?

READY FOR REVIVAL

THE CONCEPT OF REVIVAL IN SCRIPTURE The notion of revival arises from a dual reality: first, that God is the source of all spiritual life; and second that humans can still drift into states of spiritual lifelessness, lethargy, backsliding, indifference and weakness. Such shows the ongoing need for revival: the hope of a renewed outpouring of God’s life-giving Spirit to restore and invigorate His people.

Scripture is replete with prayers for such renewal. Psalm 85:6 asks, ‘Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?’ Similarly, Habakkuk 3:2 records, ‘O Lord, I have heard the report of you, and your work, O Lord, do I fear.

In the midst of the years revive it; in the midst of the years make it known; in wrath remember mercy.’ And in Psalm 80:18, ‘Give us life, and we will call upon your name!’

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REVIVAL IN ISRAEL’S HISTORY AND THE EARLY CHURCH The history of Israel vividly illustrates this pattern of spiritual ups and downs.

When ungodly kings ruled, God withheld His blessing or sent judgement.

Conversely, under godly leadership, there would be a season of spiritual renewal and genuine worship. This cycle of decline and revival is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament.

Even in the New Testament, within the relatively short period between Jesus’ resurrection and the close of the New Testament writings, there are already signs of churches in need of renewal.

Hebrews addresses spiritual weariness: ‘Though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God’ (Heb. 5:12). Yet Hebrews 12:12 encourages: ‘Lift your drooping

Phil Parker, Ministry Director

hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint.’ These passages reveal a church that has become tired and discouraged, showing a clear need for revival.

PAUL’S PRAYERS FOR RENEWAL Paul prays often for spiritual awakening and his letters seem intended for churches drifting into spiritual lethargy. Few prayers in the Bible have such a reviving, challenging and renewing effect as Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3, where he prays that believers might be ‘strengthened with power through God’s Spirit in their inner being, so that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith.’ He longs for them to be grounded in love, to have strength to comprehend the full dimensions of Christ’s love, and to ‘be filled with all the fullness of God’. This prayer reflects a deep desire for a renewed spiritual vitality among believers—a heart’s cry prompted by the recognition of how far one may fall short of being filled with all the fullness of God. THE MEANING OF REVIVAL IN CHURCH HISTORY Historically, the term ‘revival’ in its most biblical sense refers to a sovereign work of God in which entire regions or many churches and Christians are lifted out of spiritual indifference and worldliness.

Revival brings conviction of sin, deep longing for more of Christ, boldness in witness, purity of life, many conversions, joyful worship and renewed commitment to missions. One experiences God moving in a profound way. Essentially, revival is God doing among many Christians at once what He is doing continually in individual lives, as people are saved and renewed around the world.

Return to

WATTISHAM God laughs at the plans of men.

ARRIVAL AT WATTISHAM FLYING STATION I first arrived at Wattisham Flying Station between the national lockdowns in 2020, a period that was undeniably strange for everyone. The initial wave of the Covid-19 pandemic had just ended and the world was grappling with the challenges of adapting to new rules and restrictions.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE STATION’S MISSION Despite the pandemic, the station had to remain active, being home to the Apache attack helicopter. The pilots needed to maintain their flying proficiency, and most of the aircrew and ground staff had experience in Afghanistan, which highlighted the importance and intensity of the work being carried out. From the very beginning, I recognised what an immense responsibility and privilege it was to serve at a place so central to military operations, equipped with state-of-the-art technology like the Apache helicopter.

ADAPTING SPIRITUAL WELFARE DURING LOCKDOWN I began visiting the various hangars and started to establish connections just as a second lockdown was imposed.

However, the station leadership valued the work of the chaplaincy and the Scripture Reader, considering it vital Lee with his Bible study group

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CHALLENGES AND INITIAL IMPRESSIONS At that time, the Station Padre was Carlos DeSilva. None of us were entirely certain how chaplaincy should operate under the new circumstances. The previous year had been particularly tough for the station, having experienced two deaths, which left an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. I made it my priority to meet all members of the chain of command, and I was granted permission to serve as a Scripture Reader, provided that I adhered strictly to the Covid-19 regulations that were in place.

By Lee McDade , Scripture Reader, Wattisham Flying Station

It has been heartening to witness young soldiers not only showing curiosity about the Christian faith but also committing to studying the Bible in person.

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for the moral component of fighting power and morale. As a result, we were permitted to remain on camp to continue supporting those who had to work in extremely challenging circumstances. It was an extraordinary period to serve as a Scripture Reader, requiring me to think creatively about how to stay connected with the more than 1,000 personnel who continued to operate at the station.

READY FOR REVIVAL

INNOVATIVE APPROACHES: THE CHAPLAINCY BENCH To adapt to the restrictions, I introduced the ‘Chaplaincy Bench’, a socially distanced meeting point outside the post room, conveniently located next to the chaplaincy centre. This spot became an informal gathering place where soldiers would frequently appear. I always kept a pot of coffee and some biscuits on hand and thus began the post room chaplaincy bench ministry. This initiative provided invaluable opportunities to get to know soldiers throughout the lockdown period, so that when restrictions were lifted, I had already built strong relationships with many stationed there.

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FAREWELL AND AN UNEXPECTED RETURN I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Wattisham. As someone with a passion for military equipment, I was continually impressed by the helicopters and more importantly, by the people who flew and supported them. It was a difficult day when I believed I was saying goodbye for the last time, assuming I might never return to the station.

Yet, as the saying goes, ‘God laughs at the plans of men.’ To my surprise, I find myself back at Wattisham Flying Station, ready once again to serve, equipped with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Returning was a surreal experience—it brought both joy at reconnecting with familiar faces and excitement at meeting new people. What was truly remarkable was seeing young men and women seeking me out almost immediately

to ask deeper, more meaningful questions about the Christian faith.

RENEWED INTEREST AND SPIRITUAL ENGAGEMENT This time around, I noticed a distinct change in the nature of conversations.

There has been much speculation about a ‘quiet revival’ and increasing interest among young people in the Christian faith, I now witnessed this firsthand, both in my church and throughout the station. As a Scripture Reader, I’ve always enjoyed walking around the camp and engaging soldiers in meaningful conversations.

Upon my return, I found that people were now approaching me, eager to discuss profound topics, which made my transition back to SASRA exceptionally smooth.

It is a true joy when soldiers—whether young or experienced—stop me to engage in thoughtful discussions about life and faith. As Scripture Readers, we must always be prepared to offer words of encouragement and hope to those who are seeking, and over the past few months, I’ve been kept busy by the level of interest and the quality of questions posed to me.

THE GROWTH OF FELLOWSHIP One of the highlights of my return was discovering that a Bible study group had been established by two young Christian soldiers seeking fellowship. They had been meeting for some time and were questioning whether to continue, given their small number. However, the very week I arrived, there was a sudden influx of soldiers eager to join and study the Bible, which we now do every week. It has been heartening to witness young soldiers, not only showing curiosity about the Christian faith, but also committing to studying the Bible in person; this group has become my joy and my crown watching them grow in Christian love and standing firm in their faith.

I give God all the glory and as always am very grateful to you, our loyal supporters, for your prayers and practical support.

EQUIP On 30 May 2026 we shall gather at Adventure Plus, Clanfield, Oxfordshire to encourage and equip you in living and speaking for Jesus in the Armed Forces.

This event is free for members of the military and includes a cooked lunch (and some cinnamon buns!). Sign up now and share with others: sasra.org.uk/equip-application-form “In a world where moral ambiguity and spiritual apathy often reign, Equip stood as a beacon of light for those serving in the British Armed Forces who profess faith in Jesus Christ. This event was not only an opportunity to learn but a time for fellowship...

“I would encourage anyone serving in the military not to miss future Equip events. These are spiritual armouries where you can be equipped with the armour of God to stand firm against the schemes of the devil (Eph. 6:10-18).”

Join us for Equip 2026.

We want to equip you in living and speaking for Jesus in the Armed Forces.

No cost, lunch provided.

Saturday 30 May 1000–1600 Adventure Plus, Windmill Farm, Main Street, Clanfield, Witney OX 18 2SN

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(WO1 ASM, Gerhard Olivier)

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Under New Management

JACKSON CLUB The Jackson Club reopens its doors in 2026.

Petty, a good friend of SASRA and with MOD support, CESSAC has refurbished the Jackson Club, which reopened on 19 January 2026, serving the Royal Engineers and other assembled units at Gibraltar Barracks. The Jackson Club returns as a much-loved welfare facility, and a unique space where soldiers of all ranks can gather to eat, relax, connect and find support. The wonderful news for SASRA is that our Scripture Reader has been allowed to return to the club and share the gospel and Christian literature with customers—for ‘we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.’ (Romans 8:28).

The legacy of MDSH therefore lives on. Those interested in that legacy will find Adrian Russell’s book, Louisa Daniell — A Heart for Soldiers, published

by DayOne, a worthy read. God’s work is truly amazing and everlasting.

By Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM, Executive Director

READY FOR REVIVAL

The Jackson Club, the last surviving legacy of the network of Miss Daniell’s Soldiers’ Homes (MDSH), closed last spring, after decades of fruitful canteen-gospel ministry. In the latter years a Scripture Reader routinely visited to increase the opportunity for gospel interactions.

Alas, while the Jackson Club was well-loved, running costs kept growing to a level, eventually, assessed to be unsustainable, alongside a declining footfall and uncertain commitment to favourable MOD abatements. The Council decided to focus SASRA’s ministry on Scripture Readers sharing the gospel directly, in barracks and stations across the UK and overseas.

Scripture Reader numbers have increased and with it our reach with the good news. However, unbeknown to us, God had a complementary plan.

The Church of England Soldiers’, Sailors’ & Airmen’s Clubs (CESSAC)—a member of the Council of Voluntary Welfare Workers (CVWW) like SASRA—continues a canteen ministry in UK and overseas. Under its new Chief Executive Officer, Lt Col Joe

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L to R. CEO CESSAC, Lt Col (Retd) Joe Petty; SASRA Fac Dir Colin Williams; SASRA Exec Dir, Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki; and retired SASRA Superintendent Kev Wadsworth. The Heart for Soldiers book.

One Mission

DIFFERENT FRONTS

By Johnny Crawford, Scripture Reader, Catterick Garrison

Together, SASRA and the Jesus Saves Racing Team demonstrate that God’s reach knows no boundaries.

The examples of SASRA and Jesus Saves Racing Team are reminders that God’s work is not confined to traditional church settings. Instead, it often unfolds in unexpected places, reaching people who may have never stepped inside a church building. Motorsport and military life may appear very different but both demand focus, bravery, discipline and total commitment—values that are deeply rooted in Christian faith.

Seeing faith lived out beyond church carries great importance. When Christian witness is visible in spaces like racing circuits, barracks and stations, it reinforces the message they receive that faith is not confined to church buildings or private moments of prayer.

Instead, it is something to be lived out daily, wherever life and duty lead.

Together, SASRA and the Jesus Saves Racing Team demonstrate that God’s reach knows no boundaries.

sasra.org.uk

I first came across the Jesus Saves Racing Team while attending a men’s Bible group at a family-focused community event in my local area. I found myself chatting with Will Zanelli, who had with him one of the racing team’s cars, a Classic Formula Ford 1600. As we shared testimonies, it became clear that we shared a desire to see people find Jesus.

During a later Zoom call, I got to meet one their drivers, James Rigby, who is also an ordained minister. I explained the work of SASRA and we quickly recognised how closely our missions aligned. Although our environments are very different, both ministries are driven by the same purpose: to support people living and working in high-pressure settings and to make the Christian faith visible.

From that point, we agreed it would be a great idea to link up, encourage one another and help connect Christians across the motorsport and SASRA communities that have mutual interests.

‘Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.’ (1 Thess. 5:11) The Jesus Saves Racing Team exists for more than competition as they engage with motorsport fans, with a deeper purpose to share their faith. Many spectators come for the thrill of racing, yet leave having heard a more thrilling message: the gospel, which also lies at the heart of SASRA, as Scripture Readers walk alongside our Armed Forces personnel, offering spiritual welfare and practical support.

15 Jesus Saves racing car with SASRA crest

Prayer Makes A

DIFFERENCE

READY FOR REVIVAL

As a military and now Scripture Reader’s wife, I had valuable insight of the power of prayer before I stepped into role.

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When I first met my husband Peter, I was surprised to learn that he was a Musician in the Corps of Army Music! At that point, I knew very little about the Army or what it would be like to be married to a soldier.

Alongside military performances, Army musicians have a secondary role assisting in field hospitals and could be called upon for active deployment. But for Peter, Army life was frequent road travel, with early mornings, long days and little control over holidays. On the day he proposed to me, he had negotiated with his Sergeant Major to bring his passport into the office on a different day!

One of the biggest challenges we faced was when Peter had to participate in the Edinburgh Tattoo for a month, just five days after our marriage. I remember his relief and happiness upon discovering that SASRA were running the popup café for the week of rehearsals.

He messaged me saying: ‘There’s SASRA people here at the place we’re rehearsing! Had a quick chat with them.’

While Peter was serving, it was encouraging for me to know that SASRA were available, supporting him spiritually and praying for him; a reassurance that has continued for both Peter and me, when I joined SASRA. I have found it a privilege to be involved in this essential task of prayer. There’s so much of it happening!

We have in-house daily HQ staff prayer meetings and ASRs praying for each other; we have supporters praying, often using our daily prayer updates and prayer journal; we have Advocates praying with their churches; and all of us join

Peter praying with a Scripture Reader in the SASRA Pop-Up Café

together on our monthly virtual prayer meetings. It all makes a difference.

Peter’s faith journey to become a Scripture Reader began when he was asked a simple question by a Scripture Reader about what he believes. By this summer, we shall have 22 Scripture Readers across the UK. This is an exciting time—the stories of recruits coming to faith continue, which you can read about in this edition.

As Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:18-20, prayer is an essential tool and your prayers are invaluable to their gospel mission.

As Prayer Coordinator and a Scripture Reader’s wife, I wish to extend a heartfelt thanks for your faithful prayers. Please continue to pray for the work of SASRA. Alice Woodward, Prayer Coordinator (Maternity Cover)

Ready for

OPPORTUNITIES The Bible was given to us by God; it is His Word to us, and it has been given that we may change and be changed into His likeness and image.

1 2 3

Christianity is growing, not declining highlights that: ‘There is a clear need for more discipleship around Scripture’. 2 This is where I play my part. The report goes on to say: ‘Approximately one-third of churchgoers say they lack confidence in navigating or understanding the Bible and speaking about it with others.’3 This is something that I have witnessed firsthand. Individuals will say to me that they have faith in Jesus, but they have not had the opportunity to know Him through His word. They identify as Christian but cannot explain what it means to be one. In the times where I meet with soldiers and study the Bible together, I seek to make the God of the Bible known to them and equip them in the faith. I desire to see them changed through the Word of God. My ongoing prayer is that God would grant me opportunities to continue this vital work, and that I would be ready to use the opportunities He gives me, to speak His words of life in a meaningful way. I pray that those whom I meet with would, in time, grow in confidence to share their faith with fellow soldiers. I also pray that they would start meeting with others who are open to the gospel and that in this way, the gospel will continue to go forth.

sasra.org.uk

A recent report1 released by Bible Society reveals an encouraging trend: Christianity is growing, not declining.

This is particularly true among the younger generations, who make up a large percentage of our Armed Forces. It has been encouraging for me to regularly hear of young serving personnel asking for Bibles, attending Bible studies, and many coming to a saving faith and being baptised as a declaration of that faith.

What wonderful news. Praise God! But what about in my own situation as I work among the troops on Salisbury Plain—what do I see? Some days it is difficult to engage. It is a busy time and many soldiers find themselves on exercise, dealing with various taskings or on deployment. They are constantly coming and going, with very little consistency. In this situation, it can be hard for me to see the fruit of the ‘quiet revival’ everyone is talking about. But in God’s goodness there is clear evidence of His workings.

So far, I have been blessed to always have at least one person to study the Bible with, either in Tidworth or Larkhill.

Sometimes during a busy week, it isn’t possible to have a central study with everyone gathered; instead, it’s various meetings at different times and locations with one or two individuals.

A section in the Bible Society’s report

By Patrick Steen , Scripture Reader, Salisbury Plain

The Quiet Revival, Bible Society, 2025 The Quiet Revival, Bible Society, 2025, pg 9 The Quiet Revival, Bible Society, 2025, pg 9 17

Honouring the Past

INSPIRING THE FUTURE Go therefore and make disciples… (Matthew 28:19)

READY FOR REVIVAL

For 188 years now, SASRA and its forebears have stood as a steadfast presence amongst our Armed Forces.

From the Crimea, through the Zulu Wars, the two World Wars, the Turkish invasion of Cyprus and the Northern Ireland conflict, Scripture Readers have been deployed alongside British troops. More recently they have been present, supporting our troops as they deploy, as well as their families in barracks and stations.

Our ministry has been shaped by a single commitment: to share the lifegiving message of the Bible in the midst of military life. As our Armed Forces evolve, in an increasingly complex social and operational landscape, SASRA’s history is not merely a record of what has been but a foundation on which to build a culturally relevant, spiritually robust evangelistic strategy for 2026 and beyond.

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A LEGACY ROOTED IN SCRIPTURE AND PRESENCE While the nature of war remains constant, its character changes i.e. how war is fought: the strategies planned, the policies derived, the tactics, techniques and procedures executed as well as the equipment, both hardware and these days software, and the way it is deployed and used. Similarly, the nature of the gospel remains constant and SASRA has adapted to war’s changing character by adapting how the gospel is shared, thereby remaining relevant. At the outset, the Scriptures were literally read to soldiers.

Later, during the World Wars, tented camps, field and military hospitals, barrack blocks, soldiers’ homes and blackboard meetings were places to share the gospel.

Today, many of these opportunities are

unavailable but our adaptable Scripture Readers have not sat back but engaged in the modern military surrounds and also with modern technologies to share the gospel without compromise.

What we continue to seek is proximity to troops, in order to proclaim two enduring truths of SASRA: (1) spiritual care matters in all seasons of military life; and (2) trust is cultivated through consistent, humble presence. These truths remain highly relevant as our Armed Forces confront new challenges of a diverse workforce, rapid technological change, ethical complexities in cyber and intelligence operations, and evolving attitudes toward religion and belief.

HISTORY MATTERS I often express that the current SASRA staff and Readers stand on the shoulders of yesteryear’s giants; knowing our history helps to guide our future and shape our identity. Remembering how our ministry has flourished helps to clarify why we exist and how we should adapt. Understanding our historical ministry helps guide our future.

Contextual Engagement. In earlier times, Scripture Readers not only handed out religious texts, but they also read, discussed and engaged in the lived realities of serving personnel. In so doing, they demonstrated that the gospel could speak into all of life’s challenges—fear, separation, morality and the search for meaning and purpose. For 2026, contextual engagement means meeting people where they are— whether that is on base, on deployment or online—and speaking into their experiences in biblically respectful ways.

Relational Presence. SASRA’s ministry was never a programme; it was people

A VISION FOR TOMORROW As we move forward, SASRA’s ministry must be rooted in the past but shaped for the present and future as follows: 1. Adaptive Engagement. Contemporary ministry must understand our modern Armed Forces holistically: multi-faith, increasingly secular, highly mobile and technologically connected. Our approach should include in-person presence, digital platforms, small groups and individual pastoral care where needed. Borrowing from our historical adaptability, SASRA can innovate without compromising the gospel or core convictions.

2. Cultural Intelligence. Ministry today requires cultural intelligence—the ability to understand and respectfully engage diverse identities and perspectives within our military. Readers are trained not just in Scripture, but in effective listening, communication and signposting. This ensures that spiritual welfare is not perceived as intrusive, but as meaningful and supportive.

3. Collaboration. SASRA does not operate in isolation. Our history shows valued partnerships with chaplains, unit leaders

and welfare staff, and other support organisations. In 2026, deepening these partnerships seeks to amplify SASRA’s impact and ensure that spiritual welfare is integrated with wider welfare systems.

4. Intentional Discipleship. Our work is not only about introducing people to faith but also nurturing growth. Drawing from our scriptural foundations, we shall develop discipleship resources that help individuals explore Christian teachings at their own pace, in contexts that respect military rhythms and responsibilities.

Our employment of a part-time serving members secretary shows our commitment to essential discipleship.

5. Resilience and Hope. The Armed Forces environment can be intense and sometimes isolating. Our message must emphasise hope, resilience and meaning. Scripture has historically offered these in profound ways; in 2026, SASRA will curate activities, material and support initiatives that help troops make sense of their experiences, through a biblically grounded lens.

CONCLUSION: MOVING FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCE SASRA’s story is not just about what has been done; it is a living narrative that continues to unfold. Considering an unpredictable future for our Armed Forces, SASRA’s history teaches that faithful presence, relational engagement and scriptural relevance are timeless.

By honouring our roots, being agile and embracing innovation, we can continue to add value to the moral component of fighting power by being a source of spiritual welfare, encouragement and transformation—bringing the enduring message of the gospel into the heart of military life, today and for generations to come. We shall ‘go therefore and make disciples’.

sasra.org.uk

walking alongside people, building trust in SASRA through genuine relationships. As our Armed Forces become more diverse in character, background and belief, this relational approach remains essential.

Virtual relationships are inferior. Rather than broadcasting a message from a distance, our strength lies in listening first, respectfully, valuing dignity, comforting and serving faithfully over time.

Scriptural Authority and Sufficiency.

Throughout our history, the centrality of Scripture has been non-negotiable, but this does not mean future rigid, anachronistic delivery. Scripture reading has been valued because it answered the most important human questions.

Today, SASRA can build on this by helping troops see the Bible’s relevance for contemporary issues—identity, leadership, justice, suffering, purpose and hope.

By Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM, Executive Director 19

Invaluable

RELATIONSHIPS

READY FOR REVIVAL

Scripture Readers are blessed and encouraged knowing that local churches are praying for their ministries and supporting them.

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In 1827, a non-conformist church was built on a hill, which became known as the ‘light on Cricket Hill’. Today the members of what is now Yateley Baptist Church are preparing to celebrate their 200th anniversary next year. The Church is a short walk from Minley Barracks and has a long tradition of involvement with the military and troops’ ministry.

The nearby Minley Manor was a First World War military hospital and during World War Two, Blackbushe Airport, just up the road, was an active RAF airfield. There are pictures from that time showing military tents and camps right outside the Church, with RAF and allied personnel regularly attending the Sunday services. In fact, during the last war, the Sunday evening service was especially for local military personnel.

So, given the Church’s history and its proximity to the barracks, it is no surprise that members have sought throughout the years to support SASRA’s work and they continue today. From local Scripture Readers attending ladies’ meetings, reports at Church prayer groups, to provisions of cakes and games gratefully received at the Jackson Club, SASRA has always been at the forefront of mission in the life of Yateley Baptist Church. On one occasion, it was recorded that the ladies of the Church had supplied 20 dozen mince pies! And they were no doubt gratefully

From the Church’s point of view, it has been a wonderful encouragement to be able to support a local Scripture Reader

received by soldiers at the barracks.

Today, SASRA Advocate, Ray Smith, himself a military musician for 22 years at Deepcut and a great supporter when serving, continues to ensure that this prayerful interest continues. Recently, I met with Ray and local Scripture Reader, Mike Blackstock, to talk about what it meant to the Church to support SASRA, what it meant to Mike and how it helped him in his ministry.

From the Church’s point of view, it has been a wonderful encouragement to be able to support a local Scripture Reader and to see military personnel often attending their Sunday services. Ray can regularly share Mike’s prayer requests with the fellowship and Mike has been able to attend midweek meetings for updates and speak to Church groups. There have been a couple of events that Mike and SASRA staff have facilitated, which have really been a blessing to the congregants.

The first was the Church being asked to provide artwork to be used as Christmas posters in the Jackson Club. The aim was to provide opportunities for interaction with soldiers and stimulate some interest in the real meaning of Christmas. The large posters were individually and skilfully produced—one a week during the Christmas period—and they created some great opportunities. The second event was a visit to the barracks, which was open to all Church members. Fifteen, including the Pastor and his wife, came for an informal gathering, including refreshments of course—this time crumpets and tea. Such a visit, to what is for many a completely alien environment,

gave an insight into a Scripture Reader’s ministry and prayer needs. We hope to organise a similar visit this summer, recognising Yateley Baptist Church for its gospel role: ‘Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.’ (3 John 1:8) From the Scripture Reader’s point of view such church relationships are invaluable. Being able to text prayer needs and requests to a local church Advocate, give regular updates to a praying church, and to partner with local Christians is a huge encouragement. For Mike,

just knowing that there are Christians interested and supportive of what he does and that he is remembered and supported in prayer, is a wonderful blessing and motivation, empowering him as he shares the gospel. ‘You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.’ (2 Corinthians 1:11)

David Malam, Regional Manager (South)

New Serving

MEMBERS SECRETARY Hello to you all! My name is Ronnie Douglas and I’ve just stepped into the role of Serving Members Secretary at SASRA. My role will be to work alongside our serving members and act as an intermediary to help link them to our Scripture Readers throughout the UK and other serving members.

I joined The Parachute Regiment in 1992 at 17 and after passing out from Depot Para in Aldershot, I was posted to 2 Para where I served on two operational tours in Northern Ireland. After leaving 2 Para I served with the Royal Irish (part time) until 2001. While serving with the Royal Irish I started my job in Thales where I remain to this day, which is now 25 years. Scary!

Outside work I serve as a church deacon, SASRA Advocate, and am also involved in our two children’s clubs on Friday evenings. I also do door to door work; my passion is to evangelise and share the gospel with others. I am married to my wife Sarah, and we have three daughters, Megan, Holly and Cora.

If I can assist any serving members then please contact me at: ronnie.douglas@sasra.org.uk.

sasra.org.uk

Growing SASRA serving members is so important to sustaining our work and mission.

Ronnie Douglas, Serving Members Secretary 21

Revival Born from

PERSISTENT PRAYER

By Chika Onugha, Scripture Reader, Kendrew Barracks

READY FOR REVIVAL

‘God does nothing but in answer to prayer’ (attributed to John Wesley).

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Regular discipleship in Kendrew Barracks is often disrupted as soldiers face short-notice commitments. ‘We need revival!’ This was the cry of my heart; that the Lord would awaken soldiers and their families who are behind the wire, to seek Him out and by His grace form a worshipping community, where discipleship thrives. I was blessed to have four chaplains who had the same vision.

With most of the units constantly on deployment and training, my engagement moved to families. The chaplains and I started praying twice a week, planning evangelism and how to reach out to families and the Lord answered!

The church building needed a facelift, but thanks be to God, He brought the Station Quartermaster who had a heart for our vision and the work on the church building was completed in record time.

Then, prayerfully, leaflets, Bible tracts and multimedia links were deployed and distributed widely, alongside word of mouth. The result is that we now have a worshipping community that gathers every Sunday and we run ‘messy church’ twice a month. A mix of wives and soldiers now attend the Wednesday fellowship as well.

We witness wives bringing their husbands along to church; isn’t that wonderful?

There is renewed zeal and more people are asking me about my job, and I tell them that I’m employed to be curious and find out what people think about Jesus. This approach has been helpful in breaking the ice and engaging with more people. They are freely telling me

There is renewed zeal and more people are asking me about my job, and I tell them that I’m employed to be curious and find out what people think about Jesus. the state of their spiritual life by what they say about the Lord. I believe that without the foundation of persistent prayer, this new revival in Kendrew Barracks would not have happened. I thank God for His work and a chaplaincy team that is passionate about spreading the gospel. Sustaining revival can only be possible with sustaining prayer; let’s pray even more for a lasting revival.

The SASRA Prayer Gracious Father whose Son Jesus Christ commended soldiers for their faith and forgave them at the foot of the cross, bless we pray the work of the Soldiers’ and Aviators’ Scripture Readers Association. Keep our Scripture Readers and Serving Members faithful as they share in the proclamation of the gospel of Your grace, that many may be brought into your Kingdom.

We beseech you to encourage and strengthen your people to support the Association with their prayers and gifts that the work may be sustained and the Lord Jesus Christ presented to all, until He comes again. Amen.

Is There Quiet Revival in

NORTHERN IRELAND?

By Scott Witherick, Scripture Reader, Northern Ireland

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

(Galatians 6:9)

On camps across Northern Ireland, my role is simple: to be present, to listen and to offer Scripture where it’s welcome.

What has surprised me recently is not how many people already have answers, but how many are willing to ask questions.

of ‘the Church’ have endured, sometimes quietly, sometimes defiantly.

However, in today’s landscape when you walk through the towns and city centres, you could argue that the once strong Christian imprint has slowly started to change or alter to meet the needs of this increasingly secular world that we live in.

It is well reported that across Northern Ireland church attendance has declined (despite there being a building on every corner), and many assumed that younger generations had simply moved on. And yet, as I serve as a Scripture Reader, I find myself wondering if something old is stirring again.

On camps across Northern Ireland, my role is simple: to be present, to listen and to offer Scripture where it’s welcome.

What has surprised me recently is not how many people already have answers, but how many are willing to ask questions. During coffee mornings, sasra.org.uk

From time to time, as an Englishman living in Northern Ireland, I’m asked if there is much of a difference between the Province and the mainland, or questions like, ‘do you like living over there?’

And normally it’s an easy answer with some kind of joke about the weather, or the food or the many accents that I still struggle with after living here for ten years. But if I pause and really consider the differences between my native home and here, especially within my line of work as a Scripture Reader, the differences are plenty.

It’s well known around the world that Northern Ireland has always carried a deep Christian imprint. I think every person who’s ever visited me here has always left commenting along the lines of, ‘there’s literally a church on every street’, and they’re not wrong. Faith and religion are two topics never far from the surface here and even in times of division and conflict, prayer, Scripture and the presence

Mussenden Temple, Northern Ireland

23

church events or even while I’m just sitting and eating my own lunch in the cookhouse, many soldiers with little or no church background are eager and open to having conversations about faith, meaning and God. Some ask for a prayer ‘just to be covered’, while others linger after a carol service or other church activities, wanting to explore what prayer really is, or whether faith can survive the pressures of military life.

And with all these encounters and questions it reminds me that revival doesn’t always look like packed pews or headline moments. Sometimes it looks like a quiet conversation over tea. Sometimes it’s a soldier just popping his head into your office to ask a few questions; younger soldiers have especially shown interest.

With deployments and the idea of conflicts increasing, I do believe that there has been a renewed openness to spiritual things among younger generations, especially soldiers and aviators, but when it comes to Northern Ireland, where faith has shaped identity for centuries, this openness

READY FOR REVIVAL

CHAPLAIN GENERAL VISITS NORTHERN IRELAND

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Earlier this year Chaplain General to the British Army, Reverend Canon Michael Parker KHC CF, visited Northern Ireland and met with both our Scripture Readers.

It was a wonderful opportunity for ASRs Witherick and Somerville, in Belfast and Lisburn respectively, to speak to the Chaplain General and describe their work, supporting our troops and alongside military chaplains serving in the Province.

Chaplain General with ASR Somerville inside the chapel at Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn.

Scott enjoying some of Northen Ireland’s natural beauty.

feels less like something new and more like something rediscovered.

As a Scripture Reader, it’s not for me to try and manufacture some kind of revival amongst the soldiers serving here, but it’s to recognise it when it appears in honest questions and to be ready to give an honest answer. If revival is beginning again in Northern Ireland, it may well start just like this: quietly, relationally and rooted in a long Christian story, spreading across all denominations that isn’t finished yet.

My

TESTIMONY

I grew up in a Christian home, attending church regularly as a child. I loved the stories, the songs and everything about Sunday school. But when I was seven, my parents divorced and life changed very quickly. In a split household, things became difficult.

Although my mum confessed faith, she didn’t take us to church, and my dad who did take us, only had us every second weekend. Within two years he remarried and the relationship between me and my stepmother was strained. That created a growing divide and as time went on, I visited him less and less. With that, my connection to church faded as well. As I grew older, I remained what you might call a lukewarm Christian. Our school still had prayers in assembly and I still attended church at Christmas and Easter, but my life showed little evidence of genuine discipleship. I fell into many of the typical traps of sin and compromise. By the time I was 23 I had joined the British Army, carrying with me a lot of unanswered questions and an uneasy spiritual conscience.

During basic training, I found myself going to church with my fellow recruits, not out of habit but from a deep sense of searching. I had left my home, my familiar world and everything I knew. I was asking the big questions about life, truth and purpose, questions I didn’t really have anyone to answer. And yet, even in that season of uncertainty, I still knew Christ to be my Saviour.

In Phase 2 training in Bordon, I tried again to find fellowship. The local church was small and elderly, and although I joined another soldier for one or two study sessions, it felt awkward and disconnected.

I longed for guidance, for someone to walk this journey with me. Everything changed in 2008, when I was posted to Germany.

One evening, while sitting alone in my block, a SASRA Scripture Reader walked past my door and introduced himself as Derek Yarwood. That simple introduction became a turning point in my life.

Derek answered the questions I’d been carrying and even asked me questions that made me think deeply about my faith. We built a genuine friendship; many evenings spent playing chess in the block, weekend hikes and conversations that shaped my understanding of God. He also invited me to his home for weekly Bible studies, where I found strong fellowship with other soldiers. This is where my real journey with Jesus began.

My faith grew. My understanding matured. And for the first time, I experienced Christian community. A few years later, Derek moved on and was replaced by Lee McDade, who continued to support and encourage me spiritually.

When I returned to Bordon for my Class 1 course, I met Tiaan de Klerk, another SASRA representative who became a close friend, one I’ve remained connected with for the past twelve years.

Looking back, I can clearly see how God used SASRA at key moments in my life. Moments when I was searching, questioning, or spiritually adrift. Their presence, consistency and dedication were instrumental in my spiritual growth.

Today, I owe a great deal of my walk with Christ to the ministry of SASRA. To every Scripture Reader, past and present, thank you. Thank you for your obedience, your faithfulness and your willingness to walk alongside soldiers like me.

sasra.org.uk

How God used SASRA in my life.

Staff Sergeant Warren Mitchell, Artificer Vehicles 25

Shaping CONDITIONS

READY FOR REVIVAL

Returning to Germany with a message to share.

26

Regional Manager Andy McMahon is also an Army Reservist and in this capacity he deployed on Exercise RHINO HEART, at Sennelager training area, Germany in October 2025. This exercise marked the largest overseas deployment of UK Reservists since the 1980s. A large forceon-force exercise of almost a thousand soldiers, which saw simulated artillery fire, urban warfare and the utilisation of new technology, such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones).

Andrew during exercise RHINO HEART, October 2025

Andrew and Rhett at SASRA’s annual supporters’ event ‘Our Day 2025’.

I was overjoyed at the opportunities to speak of my hope in Christ and once again, I was affirmed of the importance of prayer in evangelism and the necessity of prayer support to SASRA’s ministry. people approached, pointed at my Bible, and started to ask questions.

At another point, a fellow officer started to talk about his own beliefs and rejected many of the fundamentals of the Christian faith. He was adamant about the necessary rejection of the concept of sin, stating that it was ‘so oppressive; the idea that we carried such guilt and shame.’ I was almost lost for words, but I asked him if I seemed to be lacking in joy. I was totally guilty, guiltier than most, beyond wretched, but I told him that I was completely, 100% forgiven! I carried no guilt. The range of expressions on his face, as I shared this, ending in inquisitive, pleasant surprise, was gratifying!

Reflecting upon my time in Germany, I would urge firstly to pray focused prayers, seeking opportunity, boldness and wisdom. Secondly, a visual prompt, such as a Bible, can be invaluable and a simple way of getting around the awkwardness that surrounds our society’s hang ups about faith. Helpfully, it enables the non-Christian to initiate the conversation. Finally, it is our responsibility to continue in prayer, that God may work in the lives of those who’ve heard the gospel message.

I was overjoyed at the opportunities to speak of my hope in Christ and, once again, I was affirmed of the importance of prayer in evangelism and the necessity of prayer support to SASRA’s ministry.

sasra.org.uk

I served in Sennelager, Germany, in 2007 where I met and had fellowship with Rhett Parkinson, now Membership Director for the Armed Forces Christian Union (AFCU).

On this recent occasion, there was little opportunity for fellowship, but I did meet another Christian on the last day of the exercise—a fellow Northern Irishman serving with the Royal Irish Regiment.

Although I am not a Scripture Reader, I was able to share the good news of my Saviour upon multiple occasions.

Mindful of many who were praying for me to find such opportunity, I tried to ask questions and to shape the conditions for the gospel by guiding conversations towards spiritual matters and inquiring after others’ faith. There was one point, on a bus filled with troops, when a simple conversation turned into an opportunity to share about gospel fundamentals and I can recall several heads swivelling to stare. At least one officer was discomfited and exclaimed, ‘you’re into some deep stuff here’, but most were willing to listen and even discuss such matters in depth. On the Sunday, during the exercise, I was working in exercise control, but I simply placed my Bible on the desk in front of me. This simple act led to several conversations as

By Andrew McMahon, Regional Manager (North) 27

Could You Become a

SASRA ADVOCATE?

READY FOR REVIVAL

One of our Advocates shares with us what their partnership with SASRA looks like on a practical level.

28

Alice Woodward has replaced Olia Mitskevich as Advocate Officer, as we seek to grow our network of church advocates to promote our work. Please prayerfully consider this vital role in your church, which can be a blessing as we read here: I’ve been our church’s SASRA Advocate for about six years, renewing my commitment every 24 months. Our previous Advocate was the Assistant Pastor, a veteran with a real military connection and author of a book on the moral implications of drone warfare—I don’t have anything like that experience—just a few enjoyable years as an Army cadet.

My role as the SASRA Advocate involves making sure that our church has the SASRA materials it needs. I make sure the latest deployment map is on the church noticeboard and distribute the Ready magazine to brothers and sisters with a heart for the work. Our prayer groups use SASRA prayer materials routinely, which I make sure we have available.

Our Mission team know that I’m the SASRA Advocate, so when we are looking to review Church Missions we support, they let me know. And when we would like an update from our local Scripture Reader or Regional Manager, they ask me to organise that for us. I also let our media team know when there is a new video and they play it for us during a service; Remembrance Day is a particular time of year where SASRA are a real blessing, as we take their materials to help us run the annual service properly.

Being a SASRA Advocate is light work as it is mostly about keeping the congregation informed, by providing

the materials and having casual chats in church. As a church we feel that SASRA is a part of our outreach. Over the years many military families have worshipped with us, sometimes just for short periods before they are posted away again, but they are always a blessing. We know that their lives are not like ours and so we work hard to build friendships quickly and share fellowship with them.

What I’ve learned is that the young people serving in our British Armed Forces may have very unusual lives, but they usually have all the same questions as other young people. They certainly have all the same needs of the living God—the saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ is offered to a young soldier just as any other young person, and SASRA is one of the few ways young soldiers can hear the gospel, while living their constrained and pressured lives.

The church can’t go to them, but SASRA can. I’m very proud to be the SASRA Advocate for my church, and by ensuring we support SASRA well, I feel like our church is helping to take the gospel to these remarkable people we charge with the defence of our nation.

Alice Woodward, Advocate Officer

Could you become a SASRA Advocate and connect your church to this vital home mission?

Please get in touch at: advocates@sasra.org.uk

VOLUNTEER AS A SASRA ADVOCATE

sasra.org.uk

Share our mission and prayer needs with your church, inspiring your church to partner with us in this vital gospel work.

advocates@sasra.org.uk | 01252 216 412 29

End of a

SEASON

READY FOR REVIVAL

Alan’s time serving abroad comes to an end.

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What a wonderful experience it has been at the British Army Training Unit in Nanyuki, Kenya (BATUK) these last few years.

I was already a missionary in Nanyuki as a Bible teacher, when my wife and I visited an Anglican church in a nearby town in September 2022, the same place where the late Queen Elizabeth II visited while staying at the Treetops Hotel in the Aberdare National Park, as Princess Elizabeth in 1952.

It was the commemoration of the late Queen Elizabeth’s passing where I met serving Padre Major Andrew Thompson.

We got chatting and he invited my wife and me to be his guest onto BATUK to help with a Sunday Bible school for serving personnel’s children.

Through our conversations he suggested that I consider being a SASRA Scripture Reader at BATUK. So, I applied, was selected for interview in December 2023 at Havelock House, Aldershot and was accepted to be a part-time Scripture Reader at BATUK. God certainly has ways to involve us with spreading the gospel, especially when we least expect it, in ways we didn’t even think about!

God has really blessed the work here in Nanyuki and allowed me to converse with many people of different faiths

By Alan Jordan, Scripture Reader BATUK, Kenya

God certainly has ways to involve us with spreading the gospel especially when we least expect it, in ways we didn’t even think about! that the British Army personnel bring with them. Every Wednesday has brought new encounters with soldiers that are from a variety of cultures giving me a greater understanding of their journeys so far.

Some non-believers have had their infants dedicated or baptised in the church, which were great opportunities to speak of the love of Christ, through the words of scripture read at the services. Could this be the seed that causes conversion? Only God knows.

It has been a real privilege to be alongside serving personnel and their spouses with several wanting to go deeper into God’s word. I have been going through the ‘Discipleship Explored’ booklet with several individuals.

I’m reminded that we as Scripture Readers need to be on fire for the Lord and ignite the flame to revive and invigorate the faith in the lives of our service personnel, in what can be an arduous, uphill stuggle for some.

Could you include a gift to SASRA in your will so that young people can have the opportunity to follow in your footsteps of faith?

ASR Alan Jordan begins a Bible study with Staff Sgt Tex and is joined by Pascare, Joel, Elizabeth and Joanne

legacy@sasra.org.uk 03000 301 302

Faithful Generosity

IN THE LORD

‘I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.’ (1 Cor. 3:6-7) of our inquiry as we recognise that generosity is not simply a matter of capacity or conviction—it is also relational. When Christians give, they enter into a covenant of confidence with the organisations, ministries and communities they support.’

Pre-Covid, we received a significant number of supporter cheques by post daily. Often these cheques were accompanied by cards or letters that gave us real joy, as they often shed light on the givers’ history with SASRA and their reasons for continuing to support the work. While there are many benefits to donations that come by way of bank transfers and other digital means, we do lose a little of the personal connection.

In light of this, we are offering the chance of a phone call with a member of the Headquarters team. If you’d like the opportunity of a phone call (or Zoom call) to answer a few questions and to ask any questions that you might have, then please email us at admin@ sasra.org.uk or telephone 03000 301302 and we will arrange a call with the most appropriate staff member.

By Phil Rush, Finance Director

Jacky’s prayer points each week always start with reminding us of God’s faithful and gracious provision for SASRA.

sasra.org.uk

When I joined SASRA in late 2018, I had spent the previous 37 years working for large corporations. Having been able to take redundancy, I was keen to be in an organisation that was focused on doing God’s work. My prayer at that time, when looking for a new role, was that it would use all my skills and experience in God’s service.

Seven years later I am still amazed at the privilege we have to do what we do, and that I am able to play a small part in enabling Scripture Readers to be able to ‘do their stuff’ behind the wire.

My little team at HQ comprises Sandra, Jacky and Sophie. Between us we cover all aspects of finance and technology—which pretty much sums up my previous ‘skills and experience’—so a definite answered prayer. I continue to be reminded of the parable of the talents, and humbled that we have the privilege of using what God has given to us in His service at SASRA. Without exception, this team has risen to the challenges presented, as we have sought to innovate and undertake new initiatives to support the ministry of SASRA. Each working day the SASRA Headquarters meet to pray for the work and for specific colleagues. Jacky’s prayer points each week always start with reminding us of God’s faithful and gracious provision for SASRA. In recent years Stewardship have published their ‘Generosity Report’.

In the most recent edition they say: ‘… our aim is to enrich the conversation further by placing trust at the centre

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Supporter

LETTERS

Dear Col,

Dear SASRA,

Thank you for your kind letter of appreciation. My association with SASRA commenced in January 1961 when I was commissioned and posted to 8 INF Wksp REME Colchester and met ASR Brockies. I transferred to the RAEC in 1963 and was posted to AC Carlisle.

Whilst at Carlisle I had the opportunity to lead a weekly SASRA meeting [and was allowed to use the cinema to show Christian films frequently. My first parade was to take a group of lads to form a guard of honour at the funeral of the retired police chief (Mr. Lilley) who had been running the meeting for several years before my posting to Carlisle].

When the college was closed in 1968, I was given a position at the AAC Harrogate. I retired in 1995 but when a flu epidemic struck the recently formed foundation college I was invited to undertake some parttime teaching. My involvement with the army continued until 2006.

My wife and I continue to pray and support the work of SASRA and long to see the Lord’s blessing on the witness.

Yours in him,

Greetings to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many thanks for the regular newsletter you send keeping us updated regarding SASRA’s vital ministry of the gospel to our serving military personnel. At 90 years old I recall vividly my limited service in the R.A.F spent most of the time at the then Central Flying School at Little Rissington in Gloucestershire and where we saw the contribution of the R.A.F. last weekend at the festival and then on the Sunday, most moving.

It reminded me vividly of my own participation in the Guard of Honour parade on a Royal visit and inspection by the late Princess Margaret—not only that but fond memories of joining in fellowship with other Christian men in Bible study at camp each week and often receiving ministry from the then SASRA Scripture Reader Captain MAY who little knowing I expect that he was then building us airmen “up in our most holy faith.”

Please accept the enclosed gift on behalf of us both with our prayers that our great God will multiply its usefulness in your ministry among our present-day military.

With our sincere Christian regards

Alan and Elizabeth Green

Mr Ray and Mrs Barbara Mason

READY FOR REVIVAL

Dear SASRA, We continue to remember in prayer the important work in which the Association is engaged.

Enclosed is a cheque… to help support Scripture Readers in sharing the Word of God with serving soldiers and aviators of the armed forces.

Yours in the love and service of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Anonymous

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Send your letters to: SASRA, Havelock House, Barrack Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 3NP

Notice: Olia Mitskevich, who had been working part time for SASRA for nearly six years departed in late November 2025. She moved to full-time employment and we were able to give her a wonderful send off with a bring-and-share lunch in December.

We are very grateful for Olia’s work and how she helped with the growth of our Association; we shall miss her.

Remembering

DEREK YARWOOD Almost from the moment of his second birth through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, Derek became a ‘Scripture Reader’. Through his quiet times in the Scriptures, his hours of studying them and then, under the tutelage of the formidable ASR Harry Stickings, his bold witness in fellow servicemen’s barrack rooms grew.

After leaving the Army Derek joined his first wife, Barbara, as staff members of the Mission to Military Garrisons, first in Benbecula and then in Cyprus, fulfilling the role of SASRA part-time Scripture Reader in both places. Later, as a fulltime Scripture Reader, Derek served on Salisbury Plain, where I first met him, then in Germany for thirteen years.

Derek was always thoroughly prepared.

He invariably had just the right tract in his pocket to suit any soldier regardless of colour, class, creed or situation. His quick wit enabled him to parry any onslaught from unbelievers; answer any question from enquirers and sceptics; and encourage fellow believers young and old.

Derek took to heart Jesus’ departing words to His disciples: ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation’ (Mark 16:15). Whether it was tuba playing at school, visiting the sick or prisoners, spreading the Good News in barrack rooms or from pulpits, Derek took to heart Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 10:31, ‘So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.’ Derek’s tenacity, faithfulness and integrity were deservedly recognised when the General Officer Commanding Germany presented him with a formal commendation.

On returning to UK, Derek settled in Lancing, West Sussex. Despite the encumbrances of Parkinsons, he worked

as a part-time Reader, regularly making the 60-mile roundtrip to Thorney Island, to share the Good News. His wife Barbara went before him to her glorious inheritance and in due season Derek found a new soulmate and fellow gospel worker in Marilyn.

Retirement from SASRA did not mean retirement from the Lord’s work! Derek and Marilyn continued to support their church and local community in Lancing, until Derek’s illness necessitated living in the very same care home that he had so often previously visited with the gospel; those he had cared for were now able to return the favour.

The angels rejoiced when Derek, lost in sin, was saved by grace through faith. Surely, they rejoiced many times as his words and actions resulted in the Holy Spirit’s conversion of so many service personnel over the years. I imagine a great cheer from the angels yet again as Derek entered into his eternal inheritance in Christ Jesus.

‘Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.’ (Ps. 116:15) Colin Woodland MBE , Former General Secretary

sasra.org.uk

‘…absent from the body and at home with the Lord.’

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Called to

GLORY

By Paul Somerville, Scripture Reader, Northern Ireland

Sally McMahon (formerly Clarke) was a Lady Scripture Reader in Northern Ireland between 1991 and 2015.

‘A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench’ (Isaiah 42:3, KJV).

Those of us who had the privilege of knowing Sally will know that this verse was never far from her lips. Saved as a young girl at a mission on the Shankill Road in Belfast, she had both known and proven God’s faithfulness throughout her Christian journey. Widowed at just 26 years of age with four young children to care for, she supported her family through their early years, their teenage years and into early adulthood. Sally would often remind us of the truth of these words: ‘This God—his way is

READY FOR REVIVAL

Sally at Bagshot Park

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perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.’ (2 Sam. 22:31) In that promise, she found deep comfort and strength.

Tragedy visited Sally once again when her youngest son, Ian—who had just joined the army—died in tragic circumstances.

She once shared: ‘that was the hardest thing that had come into my life. I had lost my husband, raised four young children and now the youngest son was gone.’ Yet even in profound sorrow, she turned to the Lord for comfort. Through that painful trial, God placed on her heart a burden for ‘other boys’ serving in the Armed Forces.

God led Sally to the mission field, first with Mission to Military Garrisons (MMG), where she initially served the Lord in Cyprus and then spent two years reaching out to soldiers in the Falkland Islands. On returning home, she was able to actively support the Sandes Soldiers’ Homes in Holywood. It was during that time that Jim Moore, the SASRA Area Representative for Northern Ireland, spoke with her about the need for someone to reach the Army ‘girls’ stationed in the Province. So began the next twenty-four years of faithful service. As a Lady Scripture Reader (LSR), Sally visited the troops in both Lisburn

‘God has been faithful, through it all God has been faithful, and He is worth loving and worth serving. I couldn’t have a better friend.’

and Holywood, and they became known affectionately as ‘her girls and her boys.’

Space does not permit me to share the many lives Sally touched. The countless stories of those who gathered around her table for Sunday lunches, before attending her church’s gospel services. Nor can I fully describe the ladies’ Bible studies she began in the camps, or the joy she felt when she was invited to attend the wedding of one of ‘her girls’ in England. I cannot even begin to tell of the many miles she travelled throughout Northern Ireland visiting ladies’ meetings to share about her work.

Sally retired from SASRA in 2015 and remained a faithful supporter of the Lord’s work in the Armed Forces, advocating for it through her church (The Cresent Church, Belfast) where in her later years she met and married Bill McMahon. Sally’s health began to deteriorate and her remaining years were spent in a care home where she continued to witness for the Lord. Sally

was called home into the presence of her Lord on 17 December 2025. In a recording of her testimony, which was played at her funeral, she spoke these words: ‘God has been faithful, through it all God has been faithful, and He is worth loving and worth serving.

I couldn’t have a better friend.’

Thanksgiving Service for MARGARET PADDON With Margaret’s support and influence over those years, between them they gave wise counsel to others like Nick and his wife Dolly as they joined SASRA, and many others too, including Northern Ireland ASR Paul Somerville.

We give thanks to the Lord for Margaret’s life and love for the gospel to be shared.

sasra.org.uk

A Thanksgiving Service took place on Tuesday 18 November 2025 for Margaret Paddon at Christ Church, Barnet.

Margaret was the wife of late former ASR Ernest Paddon. While serving, Ernest Paddon spent four years in India and Burma. At the Service were retired ASRs Nick Wilson and William Wade, as well as SASRA Vice President Colonel Edward Armitstead. WO1 Ernest Paddon REME, and later teacher, became a part-time ASR in 1985 at an age close to official retirement, and continued until 2000.

Ernest would visit Mill Hill barracks once a week and Margaret frequently accompanied him, working in the MMG Oasis Tea Room where she had opportunities for gospel conversations.

Margaret and Ernest were also responsible for a Crusader Group (aged 11–14 years) for three years at Mill Hill, so they were very much a team.

Ernest and Margaret Paddon in Sep–Dec 1985 Ready, the year Ernest became a part-time ASR 35

At home

WITH THE LORD

READY FOR REVIVAL

Neil Innes died peacefully at Raigmore Hospital, aged 89 years on 9 February 2026, leaving his loving family: wife Barbara, children Rachel, Ruth, Jonathan and Timothy, and 10 grandchildren.

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Before being at home with the Lord, of Armed Forces personnel from all over Neil Innes had been a true stalwart of the world. At the first outreach event, SASRA for decades. His first encounter a Gurkha soldier trusted the Lord and was at the tender age of 12 when he went on to be a Pastor in Nepal, with an met Robert Stephen, who was following estimated 50 known Christians; today his mother taking a collection drum. there are over 8000 churches in Nepal.

Neil joined the Royal Army Medical Following Edinburgh and a tour in Germany Corps (RAMC) in 1956 and by 1960 he (1972–1976), Neil and Barbara were briefly was SASRA Branch Secretary, Tidworth, posted to Colchester, where they reunited working alongside ASR Jim Kirk. A with the late ASR Alf Brockies’ widow, Ready magazine article of 1962 records and their daughters who have been him as Sergeant Innes RAMC and a SASRA supporters all their lives too. The SASRA serving member, describing following year, in 1977, Neil and Barbara him supporting the Representative for moved to Scotland where Neil became Scotland and the Edinburgh Scripture Area Representative and Traveling ASR. Reader at a missionary exhibition in Ayr. Neil and Barbara led the SASRA house Three years later, Neil and Barbara were party at the Keswick Convention from interviewed by the SASRA Council, including Major (later Major General Sir) Laurence New who stated that the Council were unanimous in appointing this husband-and-wife team. Neil started his training as a Scripture Reader in Germany, mentored by the renowned ASR Frank Crofts. It is here that he first met Ian Dobbie, then a platoon commander in Hameln, later Brigadier and friend for life, with Neil stating of Brigadier Dobbie that ‘he has been a tremendous support and encouragement.’

Neil’s first posting was to Edinburgh: it was here that he and Barbara would start the outreach at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which to this day reaches thousands Neil and Barbara at granddaughter Abigail’s wedding

1979 to 2005 and found the experience most ‘humbling as annually so many would come to the stand and tell us they were led to the Lord by a Scripture Reader during their Army or RAF careers or while doing National Service.’ Neil told the story of the late Andrew Macbeth, former Principal of the Bible Training Institute in Glasgow, who said to Neil, ‘where are we going to get the men from now?’ Andrew Macbeth contended that men who had served in the military had learned to stand on their own two feet, and the influence of SASRA and its Readers was such that many soldiers and aviators who were converted, were then called to missionary service.

Neil was aware that the late Capt HS May had had a prayer list of missionaries, all of whom had been converted during their military service through the ministry of SASRA. In 2014, long after his retirement as Area Representative, Neil agreed with Executive Director Andrew Hill to establish a prayer chain for retired SASRA workers and their families that were interested. This has been a truly wonderful ministry for over a decade, very well loved by those involved, and highly valued for its encouragement to all those associated with SASRA. Last year’s memorable highlights for Neil and Barbara include granddaughter

Abigail’s wedding on 11 July and their 61st wedding anniversary on 18 August 2025.

But SASRA’s memory of Neil Innes is not just for being with the Association for over six decades, as a serving member, then ASR, Area Representative and prayer chain lead for former workers, rather his faithfulness and self-sacrifice in following our Lord. While knowing that he was ill, he wrote on 16 September 2025: I’m very conscious that the emails sent out in recent times have been very much about us and I would urge any of you who are needing prayer support to let us know so that we can bear one another’s burdens and in this way fulfil the law of Christ.

No further words are necessary to understand what has been lost to the Innes and SASRA families. ‘Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.’ (Philippians 2:3) Neil’s funeral service is available at: https://www.youtube.com/live/ r42D_NyInD4?si=ZBri0gmsg2qTnjOQ

sasra.org.uk

Sergeant Innes (left) supporting a missionary exhibition in Ayr.

By Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM, Executive Director 37

GLOSSARY

READY FOR REVIVAL

ASR

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Army or Air Force Scripture Reader.

Scripture Readers are military veterans who live and work with military units, serving the spiritual welfare of the Armed Forces, alongside Chaplaincy and unit welfare organisations.

ATR Winchester

Also ATR(W). Army Training Regiment, Winchester. A phase one training establishment where Army recruits complete their basic military training.

Aviator

An individual serving in the Royal Air Force.

Barracks

An Army base.

Basic training

The initial instruction of new military recruits.

Battalion

A battalion is a military unit typically consisting of around 500–800 soldiers, commanded by a Lieutenant Colonel. It is large enough to operate independently on operations.

Battery

An artillery unit equivalent to an infantry company.

BATUK

British Army Training Unit Kenya.

CESSAC

Church of England Soldiers’, Sailors’ & Airmen’s Clubs.

Chaplain

A qualified religious minister (or equivalent) who delivers pastoral care, provides or facilitates spiritual support, and gives moral guidance to the whole force and their families irrespective of faith, world philosophy or status. Chaplains wear military uniforms and provide leadership but do not command, are non-combatant and choose not to bear arms.

Chain of Command

Also CoC. The succession of leaders through which military command is exercised and executed.

Company

A sub-unit of a battalion, normally commanded by a Major, and is the smallest formation that can operate independently for limited tasks. An infantry company typically consists of 100–150 soldiers, depending on role and structure.

MOD

Ministry of Defence. The UK Government department responsible for the Armed Forces.

MT

Motor Transport.

NCO

Non-commissioned officer. A military officer who does not hold a commission. NCOs earn their position by promotion through the enlisted ranks.

Officer

A person holding a position of authority, especially one with a commission, in the Armed Forces.

Padre

An Army Chaplain.

Platoon

A sub-unit of a company comprising usually of three or four sections of soldiers.

Phase one

The first few weeks of basic training when recruits are introduced to military life and basic military skills.

Posting

An assignment to a post, command or location.

RAMC

Royal Army Medical Corps.

Regiment

A military unit made up of smaller units; the specifications vary across different branches of the military.

Reserve Forces

Part-time military personnel who have civilian jobs but are available when the military requires additional personnel.

Reservist

A member of the Reserve Forces.

SCA

Soldiers’ Christian Association. Part of the founding associations of SASRA.

Sgts Mess

Sergeants’ Mess. A designated area where warrant officers and senior non-commissioned officers live, eat and socialise.

Squaddie

A slang term to refer to a soldier of low rank.

Squadron

An RAF unit of similar size to an Army company. In some Army regiments, squadron is used instead of company.

SSO

Station Staff Officer.

DMS Whittington

Defence Medical Services Whittington.

Station

An RAF base.

Garrison

A large Army base or group of smaller bases or barracks.

Unit

Howitzer

A short-barrelled artillery piece used for firing shells.

A group of specific size and role within a larger military organisation.

Veteran

ITC Catterick

Infantry Training Centre, Catterick. A phase one training establishment for Army infantry recruits.

Someone who has previously served in the Armed Forces.

Welfare Service

The military’s professional welfare provider.

LECs

Locally Employed Civilians.

WO1/WO2

Warrant Officer Class 1/ Warrant Officer Class 2 – the highest NCO rank.

MCTC

The Military Corrective Training Centre.

An establishment that provides corrective training for service personnel sentenced to periods of detention; it is not a prison.

ROLE

NAME

Executive Director

Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM

Operations Director

Mr Warren Berdo MBA

Ministry Director

Rev Maj (Retd) Phil Parker BSc BA MA PGCE FRGS

Finance Director

Mr Phil Rush

Facilities Director

Mr Colin Williams

Finance Officer

Miss Jacqueline Thomas

Prayer Coordinator

Mrs Laura Reuter

Support Officer

Miss Sophie Pomeroy

Donor Relations Officer

Mrs Sandra Stockwell

Admin Officer

Mrs Sian Lewis

Communications Assistant (P/T)

Miss Sandrina de Klerk

Prayer Coordinator Maternity Cover and Advocate Officer (P/T)

Mrs Alice Woodward

Regional Managers

Mr Andrew McMahon, Mr David Malam

Serving Members Secretary

Mr Ronnie Douglas

sasra.org.uk

HEADQUARTERS STAFF

Contact us by telephone: 03000 301 302 or email: admin@sasra.org.uk

www.sasra.org.uk

FACEBOOK @sasra.org.uk

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SCRIPTURE READERS Our Scripture Readers are all believing Christians and ex-Forces, called into the work in order that the serving personnel of the British Army and Royal Air Force all hear the gospel during their time of service.

Serving alongside the Chaplaincy, our Scripture Readers work to introduce soldiers and aviators to a practical experience of the Christian faith by living and working alongside them ‘behind the wire’.

Kenya

David Jamieson Kinloss/ Fort George

Alan Jordan British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) [Due return to UK] John Miskelly Leuchars Station

Dave Hossack ITC Catterick

Paul Curd Edinburgh Garrison

Johnny Crawford Catterick Garrison

Chika Onugha Kendrew Steven Dougherty RAF Wittering

READY FOR REVIVAL

Paul Somerville (L) Scott Witherick (R) Northern Ireland

Peter Woodward RAF Benson

Jim Henderson DMS Whittington

Gavin Dickson Colchester Garrison

Steve Curley RAF Brize Norton

Josh Fortune London

Tiaan de Klerk MOD Lyneham Patrick Steen Salisbury Plain

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Lee McDade Wattisham Flying Station

Mike Blackstock Aldershot Garrison/Minley Lee Philipson Perham Down/ ATR Winchester

Hugh French RAF Odiham