A few days before writing this, I received a WhatsApp devotional from Josh Fortune, our Scripture Reader at Hyde Park Barracks in London. The text was Job 7:7, which reads, ‘my eyes will never see happiness again’ (NIV). Josh shared:
‘Like Job, we might sometimes feel that our pain will last forever, that joy is out of reach—but Job was wrong, and so are we when we think this way! God is faithful and has a future full of hope for us. In our darkest moments, we must remember that God’s promises are true—He is with us, and joy will come again.’
Those words sum up what this edition of the magazine— Ready with Hope—is all about. On pages 4, 12 and 13, we share the stories of three soldiers who found that hope. On page 8, our Executive Director Martin Gliniecki explores the themes of mental health and wellbeing, with a particularly poignant look back at two former Scripture Readers.
Mental health is increasingly a key area of our Scripture Readers’ ministries and on page 18, Gavin Dickson, Scripture Reader in Colchester, shares with us some of the ‘tools for mental wellbeing’ that he encourages the soldiers he works with to make use of.
Before we know it, the season of Remembrance will be upon us once again. On page 14, Paul Somerville remembers Operation Banner in Northern Ireland and the service and sacrifice of our Scripture Readers that continues to this day. As a charity, SASRA is dependent on your support, and we have several articles highlighting some of the support you provide. On page 20, one of our volunteers shares about how she imaginatively raises funds from home, while another on page 24 shares about how she serves us in her church. On page 28, Regional Manager Andrew McMahon shares of his joy in interacting with many of you through his supporterfacing role.
Finally on page 41, it is only fitting to share with you the news that Lee Philipson, Scripture Reader at the Army Training Regiment (Winchester) has been awarded the Soldier Academy Commandant’s Commendation. Lee’s citation mentions his ‘exceptional and unwavering commitment as a Scripture Reader’ and highlights that, ‘during his twenty years of service, he has directly impacted the lives of more than 20,000 soldiers.’
Just as Lee has for the past twenty years, our Scripture Readers continue to be ‘Ready with Hope’.
By Sandrina de Klerk, Comms Assistant
Growing and FLOURISHING
Leo* is a soldier who has a story to remember.
*Pseudonyms have been used in place of actual names of people to protect their anonymity.
In 2015, a man named Petr Jasek travelled to Sudan to evaluate how a Christian organisation, ‘The Voice of the Martyrs’, could best serve, help and encourage Sudanese believers. It was supposed to be a four-day trip, but it became a 445-day incarceration. Imprisoned with Islamic extremists, horribly abused and charged with espionage and waging war against the state, he was sentenced to life imprisonment. His story is one of God’s sustaining strength in times of great difficulty and one of God’s powerful intervention when all hope seemed lost.
Years later, a small Christian performing arts group were inspired to tell Petr Jasek’s story through theatre. Their production, ‘If Prison Walls Could Speak’ 1 , was performed at churches and events across the United Kingdom. When they came to a particular church one Saturday evening, an eighteen-year-old squaddie called Leo was in the audience. He was fresh out of his basic training and dragged there by his roommate who attended the church.
The story gripped Leo right from the start. During the intermission, he looked around the stunned room. Many heads were bowed, eyes were closed, individuals were sitting deep in thought, some with tears in their eyes—Leo bowed his own head. Maybe he would try this once more.
So many times before, Leo had tried to believe in God. But every time, something would go wrong, so he would blame God and throw it all away. Yet here was a man who had suffered much more than him. Petr had such surety and conviction that even though he suffered unimaginable pain and hardship, all it did was drive him to his knees. Things got worse and worse, but he never doubted his God, he never threw it all away.
Leo looked around the room again. He felt an odd sense of belonging, to this church, to these people.
‘It felt like coming home after a long hard day. When you walk in wet and tired and there’s this sense of relief and relaxation as your parents give you a hug or you’re invited to the table.’
He spoke to the pastor after the service and simply said, ‘I feel like I’ve come home.’
Leo left the church that evening with a new-found hope and joy.
‘So many times before, Leo had tried to believe in God. But every time, something would go wrong, so he would blame God and throw it all away.’
At four years old, Leo had moved from Latvia to the UK with his mother.
He began his education in a Church of England primary school and attended services, which he found to be strict and unengaging. His friendship group was bullied by the older, taller, cooler kids. But beneath even his group were a couple of Christian kids that he himself bullied. The Christians didn’t have it easy, and he feels sufficiently bad for his part in their suffering now.
In Year Eight, he was bored and decided to join the Army Cadets. He enjoyed it, and it sparked his interest in the military. At the next school jobs fair, he spoke with a veteran who had since become a
civil engineer. The man told Leo that if he wanted to be an engineer, he shouldn’t go to university but rather join the Army and get his qualifications through them. So, Leo began researching.
During sixth form, Leo started hanging out with the wrong crowd, which had a negative effect on his life. A lot of his friends were Muslims, and he was close to becoming one himself. Some of what they were saying seemed to make sense, and he was searching for something, but wasn’t sure what it was.
He knew there had to be a God but didn’t want to believe it, not when it would mean giving up the way he wanted to live. He knew what he was doing was wrong, it was struggles in other areas of life that drew him to a failing coping mechanism that kept him in an endless cycle of guilt and searching. Now Leo says, ‘I knew the truth, but I suppressed it.’
When his mother found out that Leo’s mock exam results for his A-Levels had dropped from As to Ds, she had a serious talk with him and he started to get back on track with school, spending the remaining months before his exams with his head in maths and physics textbooks.
He joined the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) as an electronics technician in 2021 and started basic training in September 2022.
‘After basic training, Leo was sent elsewhere for his phase two training, and a last-minute room change resulted in him sharing with a Christian called Mike.’
One of the guys in his troop was a devout Roman Catholic, and although Leo didn’t agree with his beliefs, he was impressed with how deep his beliefs went. This soldier was okay with going against the grain. His convictions were firmly rooted, and he acted upon them. After basic training, Leo was sent elsewhere for his phase two training, and a last-minute room change resulted in him sharing with a Christian called Mike.
Mike was desperately annoying and talked about Jesus non-stop. He wouldn’t stop asking questions, challenging positions, sharing the gospel and inviting Leo to church. Mike told him he was doing it because he loved him. He said, ‘I keep telling you this because one of my greatest fears is that the day of the Lord comes and
I see my unbelieving friends next to me, asking, “why did you never tell us?”’
Leo would not go to church with him, but one Saturday evening, Mike invited him to a theatre production at his church. He went along and that night, his life was changed.
Leo had joined the Army wanting to do all the ‘fun stuff’, and now he was faced with the fact that it was wrong and sinful, and he knew all of it would lead him down a path of self-destruction. He was in an ungodly relationship that he knew he had to break away from. He knew he had to break away from the idea of fun that he and all the people he lived and worked with seemed to have, the drinking and the drugs, which didn’t line up with Biblical standards. He knew what he would face from fellow soldiers now that he was a Christian; he was prepared for the comments and the sometimes-harsh banter of the military environment. He thought, ‘Okay, now I’m a Christian, I have to do x, y and z and live this certain perfect way.’ It didn’t take long for him to realise he could not do it in his own strength and that he would fail repeatedly. Now, he
‘[I am] so thankful for my Scripture Reader and SASRA. I would not have come so far or grown so much without them…’
Saved but not Immune to MENTAL ILLNESS
As we seek to support the wellbeing of soldiers and aviators, we remember Scripture Readers who have battled with mental health.
I am grateful and heartened by everyone who has considered our fundraising campaign for more Scripture Readers, engaged through prayer and where possible, made financial contributions. We have been really encouraged by so many of you as we react speedily to the growing mental health crises in our service personnel, with further staff training and education. We believe that the gospel and gospel-based welfare, delivered by our Readers to those suffering across the range of stressrelated and mental illnesses, is the best medicine possible, and we continue to witness tangible results.
In this article however, I wish to reflect on the mental wellbeing of our own staff, particularly our Readers. The Army Scripture Readers’ and Soldiers’ Friend Society Annual Report for year ending 31 March 1918—so reflecting the intense World War One combat activities—records sixty-two working Readers, with twentyone stationed with the Army in France (nineteen) and Mesopotamia (two). The report states that: ‘Five of our Scripture Readers, after a period of strenuous work in France and Mesopotamia, broke down with health and had to return to England and India respectively.’ Scripture Readers have been and remain susceptible to the same shellshock, combat stress and mental illness as the troops they serve. While today’s Readers have been asked to engage in this area as part of their spiritual
Johnny Neill was a Scripture Reader in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.
welfare support and do great works with the gospel, please pray that we remain aware of stress-related illnesses that can creep up on anyone.
Fifty years ago, in 1974, Johnny Neill was a full-time Scripture Reader in Armagh, Northern Ireland. As part of his routine evangelistic engagement at a base in County Armagh, he was talking with several Royal Marine (RM) Commandos. In a following Ready magazine article, he describes a lively conversation on ‘the Bible, Christ, sin, life after death and so’ that he had with the Marines. He ends his article with: ‘How sad to think that a few hours after this, some of these men lost their lives in an ambush.’
‘I wish to reflect on the mental wellbeing of our own staff, particularly our Readers.’
ASR Neill is referring to the murder, on Tuesday 13 August 1974, of Dennis Leach (aged twenty-four) and Michael Southern (aged nineteen), both from Yankee Company, 45 Commando RM. They were killed by the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in a remote-controlled bomb attack, hidden at an observation post at Drummuckavall, near Crossmaglen, County Armagh. Such is military camaraderie and ‘esprit de corps’ that in 2014, there was a RMsponsored memorial service to mark the 40th anniversary of the killing at RM Condor, Arbroath, the home of 45 Commando RM .
Such an experience would have more than saddened ASR Neill, but much more personal trauma was to follow. On 27 March 1975, ASR Neill was abducted by the IRA, interrogated in Southern Ireland and brutally handled before being miraculously released, unceremoniously, in South Armagh. It is possible that he was discovered by a believer but whatever, any approach by Security Forces would have needed to be very cautious—the IRA were renowned for victim-operated improvised explosive devices (boobytraps), aimed at killing and injuring Security Forces reacting to events. Future threats from the IRA added to what must have been immeasurable mental strain on ASR Neill and his family, and so the Association moved them to Catterick and later Edinburgh, where ASR Neill continued his ministry. On 27 August 1979, eighteen soldiers were killed by the IRA at Warren Point and in a separate incident, Lord Mountbatten and three others were killed in a boat near the coast of County Sligo. By this time, it was clear that ASR Neill was suffering with what we now class as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and he moved to pastor a
church in Scotland before later returning to Northern Ireland for the remainder of his life. Notwithstanding the most traumatic experiences imaginable and the subsequent demons that challenged him, ASR Neill remained faithful to his callings, under tremendous mental strain and through the power of the gospel. (Read more about ASR Neill on pages 15–16.)
While as Christians we know that we are saved, by grace and through faith alone, we also know the reality that while on earth, we are not exempt from trauma, stress and mental illness. It is five years since our brother, Scripture Reader and veteran Royal Marine Commando Steve Penny was taken from us in 2019, having suffered immeasurably from bipolar disorder and depression. His wife and family remain in the hearts and prayers of the Association, particularly those who knew them well. (Continued…)
Steve Penny worked as a SASRA Area Representative and part-time Scripture Reader.
I can only commend my predecessor’s writing that in God’s ‘sovereign goodness it was His will to take Steve out of this poor, sick, sinful world and promote Him to glory, where He rejoices in the presence of His Lord and Saviour, Jesus.’ Today, we hope to grow more aware and better informed, trained and prepared for mental illnesses and the power of the gospel in preventing some of its most harmful consequences. SASRA continues to enhance its care for its staff’s mental health and, through its Readers, seeks to improve the spiritual wellbeing and mental health and resilience of our troops and their families. With your prayers and financial support, we shall do more of Christ’s saving work.
By Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM, Executive Director
“Had it not been for the Scripture Reader’s prayers and the work of SASRA along the way, I would not have gone on to have a full army career and be here to talk about it today.”
Steve took great delight in pointing soldiers to the Lord Jesus.
In the past forty years, more UK regular Armed Forces personnel took their own lives than were killed on operations by hostile engagement.
Filling the VOID
Girls, alcohol and the Army still left Charlie feeling empty, but the words of a Christian colleague triggered a journey to finding ultimate satisfaction.
*Pseudonyms have been used in place of actual names of people to protect their anonymity.
I joined the Army on a whim to try and combat the boredom of life. Before joining, aged eighteen, only two things were on my mind: alcohol and girls. For a while, these things satisfied me. Every time I felt bored, I’d just drink more or find a new girl to be with. I kept cranking up the volume, but eventually you can’t do it anymore, and it never seems to be enough.
‘And so, the Army. Initially, it filled that void of incompleteness that I felt. But again, nothing seemed to be enough.’
And so, the Army. Initially, it filled that void of incompleteness that I felt. But again, nothing seemed to be enough. Soon, I began to supplement with drinks and women, falling into the same habits as before but with a different backdrop. Nothing had changed.
During one of my drinking sprees, in God’s good providence, the designated driver was a Christian who is now a good friend of mine. Growing up, I’d never really had any interaction with the church or anyone Christian. None of my family or friends had much interest in religion, and some of the big questions of life that bothered me never seemed to bother them. After studying the Bible in school, I decided to try to experience the church to see what all the fuss was about. Neither of the two churches in my local area had sparked much interest though, so it was a short-lived endeavour. I had spoken to the Christian designated driver before but knew almost nothing about him. I went outside for a smoke, and he followed me out. What he said filled me with the burning passion that I feel to this day. He spoke to me in a way I wish I could emulate—he explained clearly and carefully the parable of the Sower of the seeds, almost pleading with me to be a seed that grows and prospers. The unexplainable feeling I felt then, I now know was surely the Holy Spirit moving me towards the Lord, offering to fill the void I’d spent my life trying to fill. He invited me to church the next day, and while hesitant due to my previous experiences, I accepted.
By serving soldier, ‘Charlie’*
I wish that was the end of my coming to faith story, but I had yet to feel the fear of God. I became comfortable at church, attending every meeting I could, but I was still lukewarm in my faith and still living a sinful life.
I met another girl. It was the last meeting of that kind, and the morning after, looking around at the situation I was in and the state of myself, I felt a sudden sickness overcome me. My eyes began to water, and I felt a cold sweat break out. Continuing that path of being lukewarm was no longer an option, and on my train back to the
base I was overcome. I clasped my hands together and prayed. It was my first time begging God to save me, realising how lost I was and how I could not do it alone. That was when I truly came to faith, and that was when the void was filled. Christ was more than enough. While there are still times I stumble and fail, the Lord never does. He has truly blessed me in surrounding me with a circle of Christian soldiers and a Scripture Reader, all of whom I count as brothers who care enough to keep me accountable.
A Pivotal Tick IN A BOX
A serving soldier thought he was okay with God until he started his training.
*Pseudonyms have been used in place of actual names of people to protect their anonymity.
I thought that I was okay, that I knew enough about Christianity to be saved. I was raised an Anglican, so I was familiar with the Christian faith well before I started school. As a teenager, I’d slacked off church, and it wasn’t until basic training when I went again that I really got thinking.
When I moved onto phase two training, we had an induction at the Chaplaincy centre, where the Scripture Reader introduced himself, the Chaplaincy and their roles. They gave us a piece of paper with an option to tick if we were ‘interested in learning more’, which I was.
Not long after, the Scripture Reader called me, and we started meeting. It has been through these meetings with my Scripture Reader, the weekly Bible studies and the encouragement and fellowship I’ve had, that I have truly come to know Christ and have a personal relationship with Him.
Being a Christian in the Army does make you stand out. While there are a lot of connections between Christianity and military values, there’s not much respect for the Christian faith among the soldier environment that I am in. I hope to be a light to my colleagues and show them what Christianity looks like practically in life. I would encourage any soldier, whether they are a Christian or not, to go talk to their Scripture Reader. I think Scripture Readers are a huge benefit to the military. All soldiers, especially frontline forces, need to hear about the refuge they can find in Christ.
By serving soldier, ‘Nick’*
SASRA in the TROUBLES
Remembering Scripture Readers who served during Operation Banner in Northern Ireland.
Operation Banner (Op Banner) is a name that may be unfamiliar to us, but it is the official title that was given to the British Armed Forces operation in Northern Ireland. We would probably recognise and use the name, ‘the Troubles’ in relation to those years from August 1969 to July 2007.
The role of the Armed Forces was to support the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) in various duties such as guarding key points, mounting checkpoints, undertaking patrols, conducting searches, riot control and bomb disposal. Op Banner has been recognised as the longest continuous deployment of British forces in its military history, and over those thirty-eight years, more than 300,000 service personnel served within the province. According to the official MOD website, 1441 serving personnel died on deployment or in related paramilitary acts during Op Banner.
By ASR Paul Somerville, Northern Ireland
Many books have been written about the Troubles, ranging from first-hand accounts to distant analysis of those events, providing future generations with an insight into those dark days.
‘1441 serving personnel died on deployment or in related paramilitary acts during Op Banner.’
In all probability, the history books will not record the presence of Scripture Readers, their stories nor their impact. During those challenging years, they experienced the Troubles in everyday life but faithfully laboured to reach troops with the good news of Jesus Christ. Space does not allow me to tell you of all who served the Lord over those years, but on this, the 55th anniversary of the deployment of troops to Northern Ireland, let me honour those who served our heavenly Sovereign by sharing some of their stories.
1970s
At the beginning of the Troubles in 1969, there were three Scripture Readers working within the peacetime garrison in Northern Ireland: Billy Hall, Jim Bredin and Jim Beggs. Jim Bredin had been a full-time Scripture Reader during WW2, visiting the troops in France, North Africa, Baghdad, Egypt and Italy. He then took up the post from 1957 as a part-time Scripture Reader, visiting Palace Barracks, Holywood on the outskirts of Belfast.
Having encountered first-hand, the devastation that war brought during the 1940s, Jim once more experienced that pain in 1973, when a terrorist car bomb exploded on the street where he and his family lived, badly damaging his home. Jim was a faithful servant and later in life he shared that he could honestly say, ‘All the way my Saviour led me, to Him be the glory.’
‘Many service personnel who came to the province and found themselves on duty facing those dangers were hearing about the real meaning of life, and the Scripture Readers had the joy of speaking to them about Jesus.’
Writing back in 1970, ASR Billy Hall shares of the challenges of visiting the troops during those early days of the Troubles. A Chaplain had asked Billy to accompany him in visiting the soldiers who were manning the barricades across Belfast. Billy writes:
‘With two armed guards as escort, the Chaplain and I got into the one small Army car. It was a crush, but its usefulness was apparent as soldiers waved us on past the line of civilian cars being carefully searched. The large word ‘CHAPLAIN’ on the windscreen was the reason. We found ourselves on the Lower Falls Road, Belfast and stopped to chat to some soldiers at a barricade near the city cemetery. A mob of youths “hissed” at us, and we sheltered behind the closed cemetery gates because of stone throwing. We were able to chat with a group of soldiers who had asked us, “is there a heaven and is there a hell?” It made for an interesting conversation.’
Troop numbers increased as the Troubles escalated and so did the number of Scripture Readers; by 1972 there were six visiting the camps. ASR Jim Beggs, who visited Lisburn camp, shared that on one occasion, he accompanied a Chaplain into a factory that had been taken over by the Army, and as they entered through the door, there in front of them were about 100 guardsmen lying on bed rolls. The Chaplain turned to Jim and said ‘Well, Mr Beggs, don’t ever say I did not give you a mission field.’
What a wonderful mission field it was during those dangerous and difficult days. Many service personnel who came to the province and found themselves facing those dangers were hearing about the real meaning of life, and the Scripture Readers had the joy of speaking to them about Jesus. ASR Johnny Neill had many conversations with the soldiers he met in Armagh. He was saddened that many of those with whom he had personally discussed the things of God had been suddenly ushered into eternity. Johnny, as with all the Scripture Readers working in Northern Ireland, was aware of his own safety, and where possible he would vary his route from home to camp, taking precautions because of the threat to both military and civilian personnel working for the military. For Johnny, the threat became
Scripture Readers were on hand to support military personnel at the beginning of the Troubles, with ASR Billy Hall at Lisburn Barracks in 1969.
a reality when the IRA targeted him and having ‘lifted’ him, interrogated him. This was a distressing experience, but thanks be to God, for whatever reason, the terrorists deemed that this ‘religious person’ could live and go free. The words of the psalmist are very appropriate: ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me’ (Ps. 23:4, KJV).
1980s
The 1980s saw the number of Scripture Readers rise to ten, with Readers visiting camps from Londonderry/Ballykelly in the north of the province to Ballykinler in the south. God was calling more workers into the mission field to replace those who had been called home. Yet the passion to reach soldiers for Christ that was present at the start of the Troubles was still evident as the years carried on. Our service personnel needed to hear the gospel. ASR Sinclair Quinn was visiting Ballykinler camp in the mid-1980s and was asked by an inquisitive soldier, ‘What exactly do you do sir?’, to which Sinclair replied, ‘I am here to bring you some good news…I am here to tell you about a God who loved you so much that He sent His Son to die for you at a place called Calvary.’
It is encouraging for our Scripture Readers when they come across a Christian soldier, and this was the case
for ASR Jim Moore in 1984 when he met two soldiers in St Patrick’s Barracks, Ballymena, who said they were both believers. They shared that they had accepted Christ as Saviour as young boys, and despite the ploys of the evil one, Jim could see that they were growing in their faith and witnessing to their roommates, which was a joy to see and hear.
1990s
The 1990s saw the Troubles enter their third decade, and new workers took over the reins from those who had moved on. One notable addition to the SASRA family was Lady Scripture Reader Sally Clarke. Sally faithfully visited the girls across the province, drawing close to them, to win them to herself in order to win them for the Lord. During the Troubles, there were a lot of restrictions placed upon off-duty service personnel, and many places were out of bounds. Sally noticed that this could cause stress among the girls and wherever possible, she would invite them to her home. They enjoyed the hospitality of home cooking and relaxing in a peaceful environment, but of course the acceptance of a Sunday lunch also included an invitation to Sally’s home church, which many undertook.
With the turnover of regiments, some are deployed on short tours while others come for two years at a time. Our
ASR Jim Moore was encouraged to meet Christian soldiers during his years at St Patrick’s Barracks, Ballymena in the 1980s.
ASR Bob Barbour served military personnel at Lisburn Barracks during the 1990s.
Scripture Readers found themselves constantly meeting with new Commanding Officers and Chaplains and sought permission to carry on visiting the camps.
ASR Fred Barrell, who joined the SASRA team in 1993, experienced this during his time visiting Shackleton Barracks, Ballykelly. The Welsh Guards had been stationed there when he began visiting and within a short period of time, they were replaced by the Royal Regiment of Wales. So began another round of interviews with senior members of the new regiment. Fred was so grateful for the acceptance, support and encouragement of the Commanding Officers and Chaplains during his time at Ballykelly, who saw the value in what we do.
2000s
The Good Friday Agreement had been voted for by the public, signed by the political parties in 1998 and implemented in 1999. Behind the scenes, the mechanics of restoring Northern Ireland to a better place were ongoing. Daily, the news carried stories of what lay ahead for the province and in May 2007, a power-sharing executive was again established to govern Northern Ireland in devolved matters.
Yet against that backdrop of change, God had His faithful band of Scripture Readers continuing to visit the camps and to share His unchanging message of real hope and true life.
I, ASR Paul Somerville, continued to visit the troops stationed in Palace Barracks back in 2006. I met a soldier called Billy who commented that, ‘with man’s intellect,
‘Today’s Scripture Readers… continue to draw alongside our service personnel to tell them about a God who loved them so much that He sent His Son to die for them on a cross at a place called Calvary.’
it would be difficult to believe the Bible, especially with man’s achievements in various fields such as medicine, technology and even politics—just look at what’s happening here in Northern Ireland.’ I explained that though man had achieved much throughout the course of history, there were three things that remained unchanged: sin, sorrow and death. I explained there is an answer, and that answer is found in the Lord Jesus Christ.
So, in 2007, after thirty-eight years, Op Banner came to an end. The soldiers were no longer on the streets, bases were closing, and regiments and units were returning to the mainland. But there remained a sizeable presence within the peacetime garrison, where in 2007, we had seven Scripture Readers. The garrison continues to function today within Northern Ireland. Today’s Scripture Readers, ASR Scott Witherick and I, continue to draw alongside our service personnel to tell them about a God who loved them so much that He sent His Son to die for them on a cross at a place called Calvary.
STAND WITH US
» Will you stand with us in both prayerful and practical support as we take the message of the cross to tomorrow’s service personnel?
As ASR Paul Somerville continues to serve members of today’s Armed Forces, he remembers opportunities he had to draw alongside soldiers towards the end of Operation Banner.
Five Tools for MENTAL WELLBEING
By ASR Gavin Dickson, Colchester Garrison
As a Scripture Reader, I am privileged to regularly connect with individuals who are navigating their mental health, and it is a joy for me to be a part of their wellbeing, whether they need a listening ear or are facing a crisis.
To be there, armed with tools that can assist and ready to share my hope in Jesus, is a profound honour. I believe that the two foundational aspects of sustaining good mental health are community and purpose. Alongside these, five tools are often talked about regarding mental health and they are: connect, be active, take notice, give and learn.
1 CONNECT
Mental health professionals note the importance of connecting with others to enhance good mental health. Yet, to truly connect with others, we must first connect with God. After all, He is our Creator and in Him, we ‘move and have our being’ (Acts 17:28). Knowing that we belong first to God and knowing His forgiveness through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus, we belong to His family, the church. What a wonderful thing, to belong to God and find ourselves in a family of brothers and sisters.
One of my heart’s desires, and longstanding prayers, is that soldiers who know Jesus would root themselves in local churches. Recently, I have started seeing God answer this prayer as soldiers I have spoken with have begun attending local churches.
As someone who has moved, both as a soldier and as a Scripture Reader, there has always been comfort to know that wherever my family is called to go, we can
find family in a church. Instantly, we have people to connect with on a practical and eternal level.
2 BE ACTIVE
Physical movement and exercise are not just good for our bodies, they are also powerful tools in our mental wellbeing. Our minds, bodies and souls are all interconnected, and by caring for our physical health, we also nurture our mental health.
3 GIVE
‘It is better to give than to receive’, so the saying goes. Indeed, when it comes to our mental health, giving of our time, love and finances can boost our wellbeing. By using the gifts God has given each of us to help others, we also fulfil the second greatest commandment: ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ (Mark 12:31).
4 TAKE NOTICE
There is wonder in the world that we often forget to notice. God’s creation is full of beauty; when we stop and see, our hearts and minds find moments of serenity. When we grasp that God created all the wonder in the universe for the good of those who love Him, our minds should turn to worship. God tells us to be still and know He is God. We all need to stop, breathe and remember who God is and what He has done for us.
‘Mental health professionals note the importance of connecting with others to enhance good mental health. Yet, to truly connect with others, we must first connect with God. After all, He is our Creator and in Him, we “move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).’
5 LEARN
The Bible says we should meditate on God’s Word day and night. The concept here, interestingly, is the same as how a cow ‘chews the cud’. Chewing its food over and over again. The point is to ruminate and dwell on what God has said and to come to a deeper understanding of God, ourselves and our world.
Learning can take many different forms: formal education, taking up a new hobby like an instrument or a sport, going to a museum or asking a friend to teach you a new skill. The important thing about this tool is that it is up to us to take charge of our intellect and education to expand our knowledge and how we relate to the world around us.
These five things are helpful tools that I am able to use in my life, but ultimately it is being grounded in the truth of God’s Word that keeps me secure.
I have often been in distress. I have found myself encircled by enemies, physically on the battlefield, emotionally when I’m overwhelmed by circumstances and spiritually when I am called to preach or engage in a spiritual activity, such as taking the gospel ‘behind the wire’ to soldiers. At times I have felt attacked by the evil one.
When I read Psalm 121, I read of the God who created not only me but everything in the universe and I remember His promises.
‘I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all evil; He will keep your life. The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore’ (Psalm 121).
I remember that He calls me His child and has promised that all things will work together for the good of all who love Him. I remember that God sent His Son to deal once and for all with my rebellion and give me eternal life.
As I read these truths, I am moved to worship and pray. I am then able to face whatever comes, not from my own strength, but through Christ who strengthens me. After all, He has promised it in His Word.
I hope that as you read this, you can start to employ these five tools: connect, be active, take notice, give and learn. Yet further still, I hope that you might draw strength and resilience from God, remembering just who He is, what He has done for you and who He says you are. Thus, you will be able to stand firm in the faith.
Fundraising FROM HOME
SASRA Advocate Lynda Fazakerley shares what has helped her to raise awareness of and funds for the work.
‘Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves’ (Matt. 10:16).
WHAT PROMPTS YOU TO DO FUNDRAISERS?
What motivates me is the Great Commission, the call to go and make disciples. It’s also a way to encourage my fellow saints to always be alert and creative in our own personal evangelism.
WHAT FUNDRAISERS HAVE YOU DONE?
Over the years, I’ve done different things to get to know our neighbours. Twelve years ago, we organised a celebration for my husband Steve’s 60th birthday, which was well attended and not overtly evangelistic.
I did a fundraising ‘Bring and Buy’ event for AIDS orphans in South Africa that our daughter was involved with at the time. Again, it was well attended by our neighbours. It was more evangelistic as the work was Christian.
When former SASRA worker Michael Wajdner made the additional appeal to raise funds for the Association throughout the year, I wanted to help, especially as this involved evangelism in the UK.
Initially, I aimed my SASRA fundraising efforts at our church, which gives generously as the Lord leads.
I believed the Lord would help me learn what to do. I started with a coffee afternoon with cakes. It was great fellowship, but it didn’t bring much in
the way of additional giving. Then came the national celebration of VE Day. The opportunity was too good to miss, with SASRA also focussing on this event.
We decided to run a fundraising celebration. I asked the church if they would be interested in supporting us and my husband made invitations for the people on our road. We provided drinks and shortbread biscuits for our neighbours on our driveway.
‘…pray beforehand, smile and be welcoming to all.’
Steve and Lynda raising funds and awareness for the work of SASRA on their doorstep!
On a separate table was information about VE Day, and I photocopied some recipes from a SASRA booklet and some attractive, interesting photos. I wrote out a summary on the beginnings of SASRA and their involvement in the war and copies were available for people to take. On another table were sheets of paper with quizzes on—one for kiddies and the other aimed at the adults. We also held a raffle—the prizes were all donations. Glen Miller music created a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
WHAT WAS THE RESPONSE FROM THOSE WHO CAME?
The feedback from our neighbours was so encouraging. For the next event, we also raised funds for Macmillan nurses and the response was amazing! Even those who couldn’t come donated cakes and gave donations.
The recent commemorations of D-Day stirred my heart to publicise the work of SASRA. We ran another event to raise money and shared the fundraising with the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
The weather was poor, so we covered the cakes and drinks area with two open gazebos. We have a caravan, which we opened, and the awning was up for craft work for the children, which our daughter led. Bunting from the VE Day event was reused, as were the quizzes.
WHAT TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANYONE ORGANISING A FUNDRAISER?
Think and pray about who you are going to invite. Pray about the wording if you give out invitations. Remember also, who will help you on the day to set up and clear up!
In the run-up to the event, I gave our church yoghurt pots for the ‘yoghurt pot challenge’! I asked everyone to put in their silver coins, which was useful for those who knew they wouldn’t be able to attend on the day.
Then, pray beforehand, smile and be welcoming to all.
WHAT’S NEXT?
I’d like to broaden our own church’s understanding of the work. I’ve arranged for SASRA to visit in December. Our pastor recently retired and some of our deacons are new in their roles. But the Lord has placed a SASRA supporter on the diaconate!
We are looking unto Jesus for His love, leading and strength for each day and in all our future plans, for His kingdom and glory.
By Olia Mitskevich, Comms Officer
Lynda and her husband Steve ran SASRA fundraisers on their driveway for VE Day and the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. SASRA literature is made available at each of Lynda’s fundraisers.
If you’re not online, you can give by cheque (made payable to ‘SASRA’) or over the phone by calling 03000 301 302 and using your debit/credit card.
If you are able to gift aid your donation, or would like to give regularly, please get in touch and we will provide further details.
Advocating for SASRA
Helen shares about her experience as a SASRA volunteer.
I have supported the work of SASRA for over fifty years, but I didn’t know the term ‘SASRA Advocate’ until almost a year ago. Scripture Reader Paul Curd and his wife Karen now attend my church, and when Paul was giving a report at our prayer meeting, he mentioned that it would be good to have an ‘Advocate’ in our fellowship.
I chatted with him afterwards to see what was involved. I am not a person who enjoys public speaking and was glad to find out that this wasn’t really necessary. Advocating mainly involves one-to-one contact, providing SASRA prayer points at prayer meetings and distributing the Ready magazine (both to interested parties in the church, but also to other places I may be visiting).
I have handed some magazines out to neighbours. People have commented how much they have enjoyed the articles—
‘They are really surprised to learn of the work that SASRA does.’
even non-believers. Some are under the impression that Padres or Scripture Readers are only involved with the military to perform mandatory religious services; to marry people or conduct funerals. They are really surprised to learn of the work that SASRA does.
I also have contact with veterans who are suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I’ve got to know them, and I hope to give Ready to some of them, but because of the nature of their mental state I recognise that much prayer is needed first.
We had some building work done on our church and the builder is a Christian and noticed a SASRA leaflet on our noticeboard. His son was just about to join the Army, and he’d never heard of SASRA, so he took away the leaflet. Hopefully his son has come across SASRA Readers.
Being an Advocate is easy to do, the magazine is wonderful and creates many conversations.
By Helen Macrae, SASRA Advocate, Ferniehill Evangelical Church
Share our mission and prayer needs with your church, inspiring your church to partner with us in this vital gospel work
Our Help Comes FROM THE LORD
Prayer sounds simple, but it’s hard. Jesus tells His followers to ‘ask…seek…knock’ in line with God’s will and they will receive, find and have doors opened (Luke 11). Amid the busyness of life and its distractions though, we all too easily don’t ask, seek or knock. We make our plans, we plough through our to-do lists and rely on our strengths and abilities when, ironically, they’re God-given!
In many churches, prayer meetings are poorly attended. We leave prayer for the keen people, the ones who have more time on their hands. The words of Martin Luther pose a challenge to us all: ‘I have so much to do today that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.’ 1
How do we respond to such a challenge? Indeed, how do we respond to God’s commands to ‘pray without ceasing…’ (1 Thess. 5:17), to ‘[pray] at all times in the Spirit…’ (Eph. 6:18)? Do we pull our socks up and try harder? Do we wallow in guilt over our faltering prayer lives? I would suggest that neither of these approaches are helpful!
In A Praying Life, Paul E. Miller writes, ‘You don’t need self-discipline to pray continuously; you just need to be poor in spirit.’ 2 As we recognise that our spiritual bank accounts are empty, that we are spiritually skint, we are reminded of how great it is that God sent Jesus to die for our failings. But we are also reminded of how much we need the Lord’s help in all things and amazingly, He gives it to us: ‘I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth’ (Ps. 121:1-2).
At SASRA, we recognise that our help comes from the LORD and so we want
to prioritise prayer. Without Him, we are nothing, ‘Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labour in vain’ (Ps. 127:1). And so, as we strive towards our goal of reaching every man and woman of the British Army and the RAF with the gospel during their time in uniform, we want to first of all, pray.
It was a joy to do this on Saturday 25 May in Europe’s largest military garrison. SASRA joined with Grace Church Catterick—a local garrison church pastored by former Ministry Director Warran Fawcett—to facilitate a twelvehour prayer event for the work.
The day was bookended with short reflections from God’s Word and
A twelve-hour SASRA prayer event was held in the heart of Catterick Garrison earlier this year.
‘…as we strive towards our goal of reaching every man and woman of the British Army and the RAF with the gospel during their time in uniform, we want to first of all, pray.’
peppered with songs of praise. As Prayer Coordinator, I spoke of how the Lord has been answering prayers and of the overarching prayer needs for the Association, including the increase in financial support needed to fund new Scripture Readers. Updates on each Scripture Reader were also provided, and time was given to praying for each one in turn.
Regional Manager North Andrew McMahon and Scripture Reader Dave Hossack were also there on the day to help lead the event and to chat to supporters and Advocates. People were encouraged to set aside whatever time they could for the event. Some stayed for thirty minutes, others an hour or two, one supporter very kindly stayed the entire length of the meeting! While attendance was low, the opportunity to pray focussed prayers at length for SASRA was
wonderful, and we trust that the Lord has heard and that He will answer, according to His perfect will, in His perfect way and in His perfect timing.
We would love to host more events like this in the future. We recognise that there are so many people and places and situations to pray for, but we would encourage SASRA supporters to make the most of the online and in-person events that we run, never forgetting the privilege it is to enter the throne room of Almighty God and to bring Him our requests.
By Laura Reuter, Prayer Coordinator
PRAYER POINTS
» Pray that everyone at SASRA would depend on the Lord in prayer more and more
» Pray that everything SASRA does would be fuelled by prayer
» Pray that more Christians would join our online and in-person prayer events.
1. A ndrew Haslam, ‘Luther’s Advice: Concentrate When You Pray’, Think, (https://thinktheology.co.uk/blog/ article/luthers_advice_concentrate_when_you_pray), [accessed 8.07.2024].
2. Paul E. Miller, ‘Crying “Abba” Continuously,’ in, A Praying Life (NAVPRESS 2009), p. 65.
FUNDRAISING IN TANDEM
Sub-editor of Ready Laura Reuter and her husband, serving soldier Jacob Reuter are doing a 40-mile ‘Barracks to Barracks’ tandem ride to raise money for SASRA. To find out more or to donate, go to: justgiving.com/page/barracks-tobarracks-1726323925641
Could you do a ‘Barracks to Barracks’ challenge? Walk, cycle, run, swim or drive between military bases near you!
Why Should a Church Consider SUPPORTING SASRA?
Reflections on church engagement in the North.
Frequently, I think to myself that I have the best job in the world.
As a Regional Manager for SASRA, I present the work of the Association to churches and individual supporters across the North of England, North of Wales and in recent months, Scotland. Sharing the news of our evangelism efforts and professions of faith among the military with the Christian public is a joy, albeit at the cost of quite a few nights away from my supportive family.
Recent months have been incredibly encouraging. I’ve had reason to visit Scottish churches and events on several occasions and churches across the North of England, from Warrington to Bridlington. Grace Church Catterick hosted a twelvehour SASRA prayer meeting in the heart of Catterick Garrison (read more on page 26), and there was a D-Day SASRA report in Belle Vue Barracks, Manchester. I’ve attended several conferences and church events including the East Midlands
Andrew and Scripture Reader Dave Hossack gathered with supporters at Belle Vue Barracks to mark the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings.
Churches Day, which was a great day of interdenominational evangelical church worship, fellowship (and fun) just outside Leicester.
I have come to recognise that supporters sacrifice a valuable resource—time—in order to attend SASRA events. Some events do not have many in attendance, but those who do attend are passionate for the gospel and passionate about the work of our Scripture Readers. When visited, many churches apologise for low numbers, but these churches often prove to be the most supportive and sacrificial! I’ve had deputations with as few as three people in attendance and some with over fifty. Days after a low-turnout event, cheques and donations will be sent to HQ, the generosity of such prompting prayers of thanksgiving and reflection upon our God’s sustaining hand.
I’m especially grateful to see those I’ve met on church deputations or conferences, on the monthly Virtual Prayer Meeting. As wonderful as it is, I would love to attend more local prayer events for the work of SASRA, hosted by a local church - the physical gathering of supporters to meet in prayer for the work of the gospel among the military.
Those in the vicinity of a Scripture Reader have the opportunity to support a full-time evangelist on their doorstep. Someone who is able to offer the gospel of Jesus Christ to young men and women who are physically outside the reach of the church due to force protection measures.
‘Those in the vicinity of a Scripture Reader have the opportunity to support a full-time evangelist on their doorstep.’
The stabbing of an Army officer in Kent earlier this year shows the necessity of such protection, but the outcome is that a large swathe of society is separated from the physical presence of the church community. Churches can surmount this obstacle by partnering with SASRA. In the same way that churches will support overseas missionaries and missions, churches can consider a supporting relationship with SASRA among those priorities.
A single point of contact within the church, who advocates for SASRA in prayer, who distributes our written material and presents our work to the congregation is invaluable. We seek deeper relationships with our supporting churches and a SASRA Advocate provides a personal relationship, an intimate connection between the church and the work of evangelism among the military. Please do prayerfully consider if you can serve in this role.
By Andrew McMahon, Regional Manager North
A New BEGINNING
We’re pleased to announce that David Jamieson was accepted as a Scripture Reader and started in September.
The first three words of the Bible read, ‘In the beginning…’. These words have resonated with David throughout his life and still today, ‘because every single day is a new beginning.’
David served with the RAF Regiment from 1979 to 1986, during which he completed tours of duty in the Falklands and Northern Ireland.
He wasn’t a Christian during his service years and never met a Scripture Reader. When he was growing up, he was dragged to Sunday school because his mother wanted peace and quiet. But upon joining the RAF, David heard a rumour that anyone who attended church would be relieved from Sunday duties. He proudly declared
himself Church of Scotland, thinking he’d get time to himself because there wouldn’t be Church of Scotland in England where he was based. He’d dug himself a hole as it transpired that the Chaplain was Church of Scotland and held services in one of the hangers!
David’s transition into civilian life wasn’t easy. He experienced homelessness, bereavement and bounced from job to job. During a particularly dark season of suffering, he climbed to the top of Arthur’s Seat with his Bible. The rain poured down upon David and soaked through to the skin, he cried, screamed and shouted, ‘God are you real? Are you not real?!’ He spent the entire night there. In the morning, as the
David and his wife Laiyee met at Bethany Christian Trust.
sun rose through the clouds, David saw two great big sunbeams, which were like big open arms. David felt God say, ‘Here I am.’ David’s pain and anguish disappeared. He asked God how to get to know Him and felt God say, ‘Let’s start at the beginning.’
Confused, David picked up his Bible to leave. It fell open at Genesis and he read, ‘In the beginning…’. And so began David’s journey with Christ.
‘I’m looking forward to sharing my faith and having meaningful conversations with whoever I encounter.’
Fast forward to the 2020s. David and his wife Laiyee were involved in their church yet sensed the Lord was calling them to be involved in full-time ministry. They took three months out to discern and laid everything before the Lord.
At that time, David was working with an organisation that supported the mental health of veterans, and two people had mentioned SASRA to him on separate occasions. While the organisation he worked for acknowledged that faith helped with moral injury, nobody wanted to talk about it and David found this very difficult. He prayed and asked God what he could do. He felt God tell him to reach out to SASRA to see what would happen. Now a new Scripture Reader, David says:
‘If I can make a difference to people by giving them the hope of Jesus before they come out of the military, then it will make it a little bit different… By giving them the resilience before they ever get to that point is what I’m excited about...I’m looking forward to sharing my faith and having meaningful conversations with whoever I encounter.’
By Olia Mitskevich, Comms Officer
Who Let The DADS OUT?
Thirty dads and children came to a recent ‘Who Let the Dads Out?’ event at Colchester Garrison.
It was the second of a trial of three such events, where military dads and children can spend quality time together and give mums a rare opportunity to have some alone time.
With craft activities, bacon butties and brews, the event fostered peer support and conversations with other dads on topics such as health care, mental health and faith.
‘Who Let The Dads Out?’ is an initiative by ‘Care for the Family’, providing inspiration and resources to help fathers, father-figures and their children to have fun, form friendships and build community. Run in Colchester Garrison in partnership with Army welfare and the Church of England Soldiers’, Sailors’ & Airmen’s Clubs (CESSAC), these events provide an opportunity for fathers and children to build relationships and be supported by the military community.
‘Thirty came to a recent event. The Padre read a story from the Bible to the children and there were some good pastoral chats. As ‘Who Let the Dads Out?’ continues here in Colchester, please pray for the relationships built and that dads and children would grow in love together.’
ASR Gavin Dickson
‘This is really great. It gives me a chance to meet other dads and to set time aside for me and my son to bond.’
Military dad
GO ON XERCISE WITH SASRA
Between 22–24 November, Xercise will run as an in-person, residential event for Christian young people who are considering a career in the British Armed Forces.
Xercise is an opportunity for young Christians to speak to Christians who have served and who are currently working in the military setting, about what it is like to serve as a Christian. Potential military recruits will discover how to build their spiritual strength in a challenging environment.
» Do you know a young person who is considering a military career? Do they know how SASRA can support them?
» Does your church have anyone serving or considering a military career? Would you partner with us as we seek to serve the military community?
» Find out more and register your interest: Visit sasra.org.uk/xercise
Xercise will help young Christians understand how to strengthen their faith while serving in any future military career.
Searching for PURPOSE
A Scripture Reader’s presence at a Wellbeing Day sparked much curiosity and exposed how many are in pursuit of purpose.
The importance of physical health and fitness in military personnel is likely an obvious fact to most of us. But just as the wellness of a serviceperson’s body is vital, so the mental, emotional and spiritual health of soldiers and aviators is integral to the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
SASRA can play a role in highlighting the importance of emotional wellbeing as they work alongside the Chaplaincy and welfare
teams. Many of our Scripture Readers have opportunities to run stalls or give out literature at events like Health Fairs or Wellbeing Days.
Earlier this year at RAF Brize Norton, a Wellbeing Day was held, where there was a display of resources available at the station. Scripture Reader Steve Curley was asked by SSAFA if he could run a stand and workshop for his weekly Bible study, known as ‘The Spiritual Gym’.
Steve was able to give three lessons on spiritual resilience and at each, every seat was filled and the feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, which clearly displayed that aviators were interested.
Steve likes to start by asking the question, ‘What is the anchor of your soul?’ The responses are often along the lines of ‘career’ or ‘family’. Steve’s followup challenge is to ask what the limitations are of that anchor, pointing out that careers eventually end, and relationships can be lost in all sorts of ways. These anchors can constantly shift and change.
‘Most are not actively searching for Christ, but they are searching for purpose, which becomes a bridge and a connection and an opportunity to share the hope of the gospel.’
ASR
Steve Curley
‘Every seat was filled and the feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, which clearly displayed that aviators were interested.’
The Wellbeing Day was open to the station, which enabled Steve to make many new connections with service personnel. He didn’t know any of those who attended his workshop, but they were simply interested in seeing what it was all about. From the event came several highlights:
» A welfare officer approached and said they couldn’t believe they didn’t know about Steve’s presence at Brize Norton. They took a SASRA poster and said they’d put it up in the welfare building as well as mentioning they would be keen for Steve to give a talk there at some point.
» Several aviators expressed a deep interest in attending the weekly Bible study after Steve introduced it. He always shares two things, ‘We are a Christian-centred study, and it doesn’t matter who you are or what you believe, you are welcome.’ He finds that the word ‘welcome’ immediately breaks down barriers because many assume they won’t be welcomed if they aren’t Christians.
» Steve was also able to give out literature like Inner Struggles and Our Daily Bread. He was completely blown away by how many copies were taken.
In a world where so many are without hope, we are grateful that our Scripture Readers can come alongside members of our Armed Forces as they offer practical, emotional and spiritual aid.
By Sandrina de Klerk, Comms Assistant
Steve’s ‘Spiritual Gym’ Bible study poster (contact details removed)
The LONG TABLE
At the start of the year, the head Chaplain of Northern Ireland asked me to come up with a regular event that engages soldiers. Straight away I turned to food…
WHAT IS THE ‘LONG TABLE’?
Coffee mornings and other similar things are run across military camps throughout the country. These facilitate polite conversation and quick introductions where people pop their heads in to say hello. But I wanted to create an environment where soldiers firstly, feel comfortable and safe and where secondly, conversations can really develop. The best way for this to happen, I believe, is at a table with a meal.
In the busyness of military life, sitting down at a table and sharing a meal together is quite rare. The ‘Long Table’ is a breakfast event led by ASR Paul Somerville and I, which takes place once a month at the Chaplaincy centre in Lisburn Barracks. It provides a platform for us to invite varying groups of soldiers to break bread, build relationships and share with those in attendance about who we are and what SASRA does.
WHY THE ‘LONG TABLE’?
Throughout Jesus’ ministry, He regularly sat and ate with people in all walks of life. Shortly before He was arrested, Jesus invited His disciples to share a meal with Him. It was Passover. Jesus wanted to invest deeply in His closest friendships, reminding them of His love and equipping them for what lay ahead. Another well-known account of Jesus sharing food involved a few loaves of bread, a couple of fish and 5000 guests. He didn’t have to stay, but He chose to be with them to teach us about
By ASR Scott Witherick, Northern Ireland
God’s generosity, welcoming everyone to His metaphorical table. Scripture Readers have a similar desire and goal: to share the gospel, to invest in the lives of service personnel and to support them. The purpose of a well set, decorated and inviting table is simple—to create space for honest conversations, encouragement and the chance to pray together.
One final desire for our ‘Long Table’ event stems from Luke 14, where Jesus is at a religious leader’s house and challenges him on his dinner party invite lists. Essentially, he says that we shouldn’t invite our friends and fancy VIPs, but those who never get invited, like the poor and the outcasts (vs. 13). We want to establish a place where all ranks, both soldiers and officers, can come. We want them to leave the military side of life at the door and sit and engage with one another. We hope that this will enable everyone to feel at home within a church setting, thus opening doors for Paul and I to share our stories and to offer the gospel and spiritual support that is very much needed.
‘…soldiers now know us better. They know what we do, they know about our families and our hobbies because we’ve intentionally shared our lives at the table with them.’
ENCOURAGEMENTS FROM THE ‘LONG TABLE’
Despite its infancy, the ‘Long Table’ has already provided many positive opportunities for Paul and I. Not only have we been able to provide literature and prayer, but we’ve been more warmly received by those who have attended. Many Scripture Readers will admit the challenge of awkward introductions and silences when walking into offices and hangers at times. But since the ‘Long
Table’ began, this atmosphere has really changed at Lisburn Barracks. After sitting at the table together, soldiers now know us better. They know what we do, they know about our families and our hobbies because we’ve intentionally shared our lives at the table with them. With these encouragements, I very much look forward to the future of the ‘Long Table’ and the outcomes of it.
THE FUTURE OF THE ‘LONG TABLE’
The ‘Long Table’ is now entering its fourth month and our numbers continue to grow at each event. Paul and I have discussed taking the ‘Long Table’ on the road so we can roll it out in other camps across Northern Ireland. In addition to its continued growth, I also hope to offer attendees the chance to stay behind for a time of prayer. Hopefully this will demonstrate that the ‘Long Table’ is much more than just a free breakfast.
ASRs Scott Witherick and Paul Somerville have got to know personnel from different units since running the ‘Long Table’.
Sharing the Hope of Christ AT A POP-UP CAFÉ
This summer, SASRA’s pop-up café at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo rehearsals once again provided a platform for the gospel.
For fifty-six years, SASRA has had the immense privilege of serving the performers and support staff at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo1 . This year, the SASRA team travelled up to Edinburgh with four Scripture Readers and two new Scripture Reader recruits. Their aim was to provide spiritual and practical support to the performers and members of the Armed Forces, and to share the hope of the gospel with them.
We at SASRA are mindful of God’s blessing on our efforts at the Tattoo, which has been evident in many ways, but two particular examples of God’s providence come to mind.
One of our new recruits, Peter Woodward, is a member of the British Army Band Colchester and attended the Tattoo as a performer in 2022. Performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a prestigious role, and though Peter
‘…our team can share hope with every performer or staff member that they meet.’
Photo: As ever, many Bibles and copies of Christian literature were accepted by participants of the Tattoo. 1. W ith the exception of two years when the Tattoo was cancelled due to COVID.
recognised that, he had been married only a week before moving to Edinburgh for five weeks of rehearsals and performances. Missing his wife and struggling with some of the stress and pressures of his role, Peter was both surprised and thrilled to see the SASRA banner outside the popup café. He quickly introduced himself and found the presence of SASRA and Scripture Readers a great blessing and encouragement.
This year, Peter attended the Tattoo as a Scripture Reader recruit. He shared that he has been inspired by a Reader who once told him that his prayer was always, ‘Lord, let me make a difference or be a blessing to one person.’ Peter shared that his prayer for that week was the same. During his time in uniform, even before coming to Christ, he said that the presence of a Christian influence was always an encouragement, even just being aware that there was something different about them.
Our Regional Manager North, Andrew McMahon, also had a providential encouragement. As a reservist officer in the Royal Artillery, Andrew took part in a training exercise earlier this year in Brunei with 1st Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles (read more on page 40). While there, he attended services at the military church and was asked to preach. He was encouraged by the Christians there.
Months later, during the Tattoo rehearsal week, Andrew bumped into a group of
Peter (right) enjoyed attending the outreach week this year as a Scripture Reader recruit after having participated in the Tattoo in 2022.
Regional Manager Andrew McMahon also enjoyed opportunities to share the gospel.
Gurkha musicians and started chatting. One individual engaged in conversation about his biblical name, before telling Andrew, ‘I know you. I was the drummer in the church you preached at in Brunei.’
Both Andrew and the soldier were encouraged to unexpectedly be brought together at this event. Andrew invited him to the pop-up café and the soldier brought several of his bandmates along too.
How encouraging that the Lord was preparing opportunities for SASRA in Edinburgh earlier this year, thousands of miles away!
As well as the Tattoo outreach being an encouragement to other Christians in the Armed Forces from bands and regiments from all over the world, our team can share hope with every performer or staff member that they meet. Sometimes that looks like a simple encouraging word, a cup of coffee, a friendly face, a listening ear or a piece of literature, ultimately recognising that the hope we have to share is Christ.
One of our team members reflected, ‘The opportunities we have had have been breathtaking. In every conversation, to some degree, there has been the opportunity to share the hope of Christ in some measure, or to offer literature!’
By Sandrina de Klerk, Comms Assistant
7000 Miles from NORTH YORKSHIRE
SASRA Regional Managers travel great distances, but Andrew McMahon ventured thousands of miles outside the UK while on exercise with the Reserves.
As Regional Manager I have opportunities to travel across the UK, but I certainly do not have reason to fly outside of it. However, as a Battery Commander within an artillery regiment in the Army Reserve, I was able to travel to Brunei to support the 1 Royal Gurkha Rifles (1 RGR) Battle Group as they exercised on ULU WARRIOR, a military planning exercise. Brunei is approximately 7000 miles from North Yorkshire, although many of the Gurkhas I met were familiar with Catterick Garrison (where I live), because each infantry soldier completes their basic training there. Brunei itself is under sharia law, and Bruneian Christians have to keep a low profile under threat of government restrictions, even persecution. Happily, the Christian community in the British garrison is unrestricted in its freedoms and is a healthy, thriving church! They have been allocated their own building for worship and fellowship, and despite concerns that this may be repurposed for
secular administrative reasons, they have retained its use, enabling Sunday services and mid-week fellowship meetings to take place! The congregation give credit to God for protecting their place of worship, but they are eager that the wider church prays for their continued use of the building.
In my short two weeks there, I enjoyed significant fellowship and wonderful hospitality! Both Bahadur, the welfare officer and Arjun, a senior non-commissioned officer, welcomed me into their homes and into the church fellowship. I met an English platoon commander, who would appreciate prayer, for it is not easy to serve as a Christian officer in that environment. Bahadur and Arjun both spoke of their familiarity with SASRA and gratitude for its role in their lives. Bahadur’s face would shine with joy as he gave his testimony and described fellowship meetings in Havelock House, many years ago. Arjun was particularly grateful for the
PRAYER POINTS
» That the church in the 1st Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles may grow and their place of worship be maintained
» For non-Christian husbands of the Christian ladies who attend, that they may be saved
» For increased freedom for Bruneian Christians.
Andrew met Gurkhas who knew and had benefitted from the work of SASRA
friendship of former Scripture Reader Jim Henderson, while based in Aldershot. Both are elders in the church, leading God’s people in discipleship and worship. Despite religious freedoms, it is not easy to serve as a Christian, most of the military community being Hindu or Buddhist. They would be grateful for prayer for God’s hand of blessing upon them.
Footnote:
As I write this in Edinburgh during the SASRA Tattoo outreach week, I have just met two young Nepalese Christians who are from the 1 RGR church family!
By Andrew McMahon, Regional Manager North
Exceptional and Unwavering COMMITMENT
This summer, ASR Lee Philipson was awarded the Soldier Academy Commandant’s Commendation. This is a wonderful tribute to Lee’s ministry, his commitment to evangelism and the spiritual welfare of trainees and the engineer regiments that he supports.
ASR Philipson has demonstrated exceptional and unwavering commitment as a Scripture Reader in more than twenty years of service to ATR Winchester. His dedication has significantly impacted recruits and permanent staff across the regiment, ensuring that thousands have received the highest level of pastoral care and support.
ASR Philipson has supported the welfare of all who have come through the gates of ATR (W), he brings both his experience as a soldier and a deep understanding of phase one training. During his twenty years of service, he has directly impacted the lives of more than 20,000 soldiers. Indeed, many soldiers returning to Winchester as instructors remember benefitting from his support in their time as recruits when he listened and helped when they needed it most.
For our recruits ASR Philipson often works extended hours, working on weekends and late into the evenings. He routinely goes the extra mile to care for the recruits and ensure they
have a someone to speak to outside the Chain of Command. For the permanent staff, ASR Philipson provides advice to all from Section Commander to the Commanding Officer; he offers longterm perspective in an organisation where postings can often be short. ASR Philipson is popular and well admired by all, especially those members of the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess, where ASR Philipson plays an active part.
ASR Philipson’s role in the Chaplaincy provision is invaluable. His sage advice, wisdom and willingness to listen have made him a go-to figure for many, often answering the question: ‘to whom does the Padre go when they need to talk?’. His steadfastness and commitment, through many changes in the Chaplaincy, show him as an example of the ministry a Scripture Reader is called to.
ASR Philipson’s length of service, unwavering dedication, selfless commitment and loyalty fully deserve the recognition of Soldier Academy Commandant’s Commendation.
GLOSSARY
ASR Army or Air Force Scripture Reader. Scripture Readers are military veterans who live and work on military units, serving the spiritual welfare of the Armed Forces alongside Chaplaincy and military welfare.
ATR Winchester Also ATR(W). The Army Training Regiment, Winchester. A phase one training establishment for Army recruits.
Aviator An individual serving in the Royal Air Force.
Barracks An Army base.
Basic training The initial instruction of new military recruits.
Battalion A large Army unit of several hundred soldiers, comprising two or more companies.
Chaplain Chaplains are qualified religious ministers (or equivalent) who deliver pastoral care, provide or facilitate spiritual support and give 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 do not bear arms.
Chain of Command Also CoC. The succession of leaders through which command is exercised and executed.
Company An Army unit comprised of platoons that makes up part of a battalion or regiment.
Garrison A large Army base or group of smaller bases or barracks.
ITC Catterick The Infantry Training Centre, Catterick. A phase one training establishment for Army infantry recruits.
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.
MOD Ministry of Defence. The UK government department responsible for the Armed Forces.
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 See Chaplain.
Platoon
Phase one
Posting
An Army unit comprised of sections that is part of a company.
The first few weeks of basic training, when recruits are introduced to military life and basic military skills.
An assignment to a post, command or location.
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.
Section Commander An NCO who commands a small group of around seven soldiers or aviators.
Sgts Mess Sergeants’ Mess. A designated area where senior NCOs socialise, eat and live.
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.
Station An RAF base.
Unit A group of specific size and role within a larger military organisation.
Veteran Someone who has previously served in the Armed Forces.
Warrant Officer The highest NCO rank.
Welfare Service
The military’s professional welfare provider.
HEADQUARTERS STAFF
ROLE
Executive Director
Operations Director
Ministry Director
Finance Director
Facilities Director
Finance Officer
Prayer Coordinator
Support Officer
Donor Relations Officer
NAME
Lt Col (Retd) Dr Martin Gliniecki QGM CEng
Mr Warren Berdo MBA
Rev Phil Parker
Mr Phil Rush
Mr Colin Williams
Miss Jacqueline Thomas
Mrs Laura Reuter
Miss Sophie Pomeroy
Mrs Sandra Stockwell
Lead Communications Officer Mr John Surtees
Development Officer
Admin Officer
Communications Officer (P/T)
Communications Assistant (P/T)
Regional Managers
Mr Gareth Bartlett MSc
Mrs Sian Lewis
Miss Olia Mitskevich
Miss Sandrina de Klerk
Mr Andrew McMahon, Mr David Malam
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’
Paul Somerville, Northern Ireland
Scott Witherick, Northern Ireland
Peter Woodward
David Jamieson In Training
Steve Curley, RAF Brize Norton
Tiaan de Klerk, MOD Lyneham
Patrick Steen, Salisbury Plain
Lee Philipson, ATR Winchester and Perham Down
Alan Jordan, British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK)
Paul Curd, Edinburgh Garrison
Dave Hossack, ITC Catterick
Kevin Wadsworth, Jackson Club, Minley Chika Onugha, Kendrew
