ABERDEEN CITADEL SALVATION ARMY
SUNDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2020
MILESTONES Captain Emma Newton There are two definitions of the word ‘milestone’; it is a stone set up beside a road to mark the distance in miles to a particular place, or a significant stage or event in the development of something. Around the city of Aberdeen, and beyond, there are interesting milestones that state their distances to difference towns. I’ve found out this week there are five different milestones listed on the ‘Short Guide to Scheduled Monuments in Aberdeen City’ from July 2018, which mark the miles along the canal, out towards Dyce, from the harbour in Aberdeen. The canal closed in 1854 and yet the 4.5, 5.5, 7.5, 9 and 10 mile milestones still exist, marking the route. I’ve added this route to our ‘to-do’ list as we explore the city. Also this week, we have seen Isla reach two new milestones, of the second definition. After a painful weekend, she has had her first tooth break through. Secondly, she has mastered sitting up by herself this week, and can now pull herself up from a reclined position to fully seated. She would really like to be standing and …Continued Page 2. ‘A Thought From the Word’
‘Music Box’
‘Prayer Matters’
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Captain Peter Renshaw considers how a direct question, with a direct answer, can bring about life changing moments. Matthew 16:15-16 15 ‘ “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” 16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”’
Bandmaster John Still introduces Bandmaster William Himes’ arrangement of the popular hymn ‘Make Me a Channel of Your Peace’.
-Page 6This week’s prayer diary as well as other important news about people and situations that require out prayerful support.
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THE SALVATION ARMY
ABERDEEN CITADEL Serving God & Aberdeen For Over 140 Years 28 Castle Street Aberdeen AB11 5BG 01224 579 370
aberdeen.citadel@salvationarmy.org.uk
@aberdeencitadel Commanding Officers Captains Callum & Emma Newton callum.newton@salvationarmy.org.uk emma.newton@salvationarmy.org.uk
Part of the North Scotland Division and the United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland Territory. Called to be disciples of Jesus Christ, The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland exists to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we will be a Spiritfilled, radical, growing movement, with a burning desire to lead people into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, actively serve the community, and fight for social justice. Divisional Commander (North Scotland): Major Gillian Jackson Territorial Commander (UKI): Commissioner Anthony Cotterill The General: General Brian Peddle
MILESTONES CONTINUED FROM FRONT walking by herself, but for now she contents herself with reaching for our hands to help balance her! We mark each of these early milestones with some cards that document these events, with a date, and a photograph. In time we will fill a photo frame with these events to remind ourselves of her constant development, but in particular of these special ‘first’ moments. There are other milestones that we mark, sometimes with an object or a photo, such as weddings, birthdays, the end of a period of academic study, or the end of a year. There are some milestones that we acknowledge, often without an object or a photo, including the passing of a loved one, or the number of weeks of lockdown. This week sees two Citadel-specific milestones. Firstly, the scaffolding has moved from its barely-noticeable location at the back of the hall, to its conspicuous new location at the front. This marks the next stage in the building works, which is a good milestone, but one we acknowledge without a photograph or memorial! The second Citadel milestone is more significant. This weekend is Cadet Abigail Gray’s first in London following her move to William Booth College last week. This is a milestone for the Corps as the last candidate sent to WBC was, now Captain, Chris Still in 2013. Whilst we cannot mark this milestone with any photos, or physical event, we want to assure Abigail of our ongoing practical and prayerful support. If you would like more detail on how to do this,
please get in touch with me, or directly with Abigail. We hope she will keep in touch with updates for us to publish in future editions of the Castlegate News, including details of the public (virtual) welcome scheduled for the end of September. This will also mark an important milestone for Abigail as she changes her epaulettes from ‘Aberdeen Citadel’ to first year cadet, and as she starts this new chapter in her adventure with God. As I have reflected on milestones this week, I am reminded of a Scriptural milestone; a reminder of a special event, and something we see regularly to remind us of God’s covenant; a rainbow. In Genesis 9:16 it is written: “whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.” When we see physical milestones, we are reminded of what has gone before us. When we see photos or objects, we are reminded of those crucial stages and developments of our lives. When we see a rainbow, we are reminded that God’s covenant with us endures forever; never again will he flood the whole earth, but rather will always offer forgiveness to those who call on his name. Whatever your last milestone in your journey with God, I hope it will not be the last. Perhaps take some time today to look back at your milestones of faith, and to pray that God will sustain and strengthen you as you make your way to the next milestone.
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A Thought From the Word
A DIRECT QUESTION CAPTAIN PETER RENSHAW (DHQ) Direct questions deserve direct answers. There is nothing worse than a person who does not give a straight answer or those who beat about the bush and get bogged down with indecision. There are times when you just need to say what you feel and express what you believe. This may mean drawing on all your strength to take a courageous step, but ultimately if you state where you stand on things you create a clear pathway for yourself and hopefully people will respect you for that. Making such decisions and statements will give you a clear sense of direction, purpose and ultimately peace of mind.
‘Who do the people say I am?’ The answer that is given is informed by what the disciples hear from the people, which is based on their knowledge and experience to that date: ‘some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ In the minds of those around Jesus he was the long-awaited prophet promised by God in Deuteronomy 18:15 ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers.’ The people were not wrong in their thinking and knowledge, it was just that they were yet to get to know Jesus on a personal In today’s chosen scripture reading we read the account of a level and know his true identity. conversation between Then comes another direct Jesus and his disciples question from Jesus to his where Jesus asks two disciples, ‘Who do you say “Being asked such direct questions and giving direct questions of them. I am?’ This is a personal direct answers as was the case between Jesus and At this point Jesus is question to them, and it is Peter causes us to re-evaluate our lives, change halfway through his with this question that we ministry and the disciples can see a turning point in direction and align to a new purpose.” have had the benefit of a mind and heart for at least year and a half of one of the disciples, Peter. observing Jesus’ ministry and teaching giving them an insight to his He makes a momentous statement; ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’ This is the first foundation stone of the identity. He now asks them the question (Matthew 16:13-20): Christian church and it comes from the man of whom Jesus 13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his would then say, ‘…you are the rock upon which I will build disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” 14They replied, my church’ (v.18). Peter’s answer is not something he has “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah learnt from another person, it comes from within himself, a or one of the prophets.” 15“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do heart-warming spiritual truth revealed to him by God. you say I am?” 16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” 17Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of This life changing encounter happened in a place called Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Caesarea Philippi just a few miles north of the Sea of Galilee. 18 Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter and on this rock I The place itself was a centre of pagan worship, devoid of will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19I spiritual truth and light and yet this is the place where Jesus will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on is first recognised as ‘the Christ, the Son of the living God’ earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be quite literally a ‘light shining in the darkness…’. 20 loosed in heaven.” Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone Being asked such direct questions and giving direct that he was the Messiah. answers as was the case between Jesus and Peter causes us
CASTLEGATE NEWS -ABERDEEN CITADEL SALVATION ARMY to re-evaluate our lives, change direction and align to a new purpose. Theologian Karl Barth referrers to this as ‘the great disturbance’. In his commentary on Romans, Barth says that all human systems must inevitably be disturbed by the thought of God. This was the case for Peter who went on to become the first great voice of the gospel. It was also the case for Paul whose life was transformed by God and went on to encourage others to welcome this disturbance of thinking and ultimate life transformation (Romans 12:1–8). Is it the same for you? If we are to be part of the world-wide church of Jesus Christ, we must first answer the same direct question that Jesus put to the disciples. Who do you say I am?
Your answer will define your life’s direction and purpose. In the light of Jesus’s unsettling presence, we are disturbed and transformed and then we are led to the heart of our creator God where we can fulfil our purpose to worship Him. This question asked by Jesus led to the first foundation stone of the Christian church to be laid by Peter in a place that needed a ‘great disturbance’. Stones are still being laid today by us, the church. God is still disturbing people’s thinking leading to lives transformed. This is the defining characteristic of the church and the transforming characteristic of those who are the church. To know who Jesus is, is vital if we are to have a clear sense of direction, purpose and ultimately peace of mind. A direct question deserves a direct answer.
Song 34
Song 114
I believe that God the Father Can be seen in God the Son, In the gentleness of Jesus Love for all the world is shown. Though men crucify their Saviour, And his tenderness rebuff, God is love, the cross is saying, Calvary is proof enough.
Light of the world You stepped down into darkness, Opened my eyes, Let me see. Beauty that made this heart adore you, Hope of a life spent with you. Here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that you're my God. You're altogether lovely, Altogether worthy, Altogether wonderful to me. King of all days So highly exalted, Glorious in heaven above. Humbly you came to the earth you created, All for love's sake became poor. Here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that you're my God. You're altogether lovely, Altogether worthy, Altogether wonderful to me. I'll never know how much it cost, To see my sin upon that cross. Tim Hughes Listen Here: https://youtu.be/CoxopsRSfdU
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I believe in transformation, God can change the hearts of men, And refine the evil nature Till it glows with grace again. Others may reject the weakling, I believe he can be strong, To the family of Jesus All God's children may belong. In a world of shifting values, There are standards that remain, I believe that holy living By God's grace we may attain. All would hear the Holy Spirit If they listen to his voice, Every Christian may be Christlike And in liberty rejoice. All the promises of Jesus Are unchanged in every way, In my yesterdays I proved them, I believe them for today. Still God gives his willing servant Full equipment for the task; Power is found by those who seek it, Grace is given to those who ask. John Gowans Listen here: https://youtu.be/mT6jp9pkf2A
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UPCOMING EVENTS
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WHAT’S ON... SOME ONLINE RECOMMENATIONS
Please remain aware that all upcoming events remain subject to change or cancellation at short notice owing to the ongoing Coronavirus situation. If there is sufficient notice, changes and cancellations will be announced in ‘Castlegate News’ and on Facebook.
Saturday 29th August
Fortress Radio Sunday Services 11am and 6pm. Salvation Army music all through the week. “Take yourself back through a day of 'Army' activities and enjoy a day of music featuring Songster Brigades, Bands, YP Sections and much more. During the week, listen again to your favourite Army melodies including special broadcasts such as Songster Gems and Band Fest.”
Divisional Leaders’ Installation (Time to be Confirmed)
Territorial Leaders’ Messages ‘Got any rivers you think are uncrossable? Got any mountains you can't tunnel through? God specialises in things thought impossible He can do just what no other can do.’
The Territorial Leaders will be leading an installation meeting of our new Divisional Leaders, Major Gillian Jackson (Divisional Commander) and Major Steve Dutfield (Divisional Leader for Leader Development). Attendance at this event will be by invitation only in order to comply with COVID-19 legislation. Sunday 30th August Divisional Candidates’ Farewell (Time to be Confirmed) Further details for this event will follow. Attendance at this event will be by invitation only in order to comply with COVID-19 legislation. Sunday
4th
October
Available at: https://www.fortressradio.online/listennow.html
Available at: https://youtu.be/l4IaFpE1g90
Commissioner Gillian Cotterill invites us to consider new directions and new routes that might need to be taken in our lives.
General Brian Peddle’s Welcome Why not go back to September 2018 at William Booth College where the welcome meeting for General Brian Peddle and the international leadership team was held. Enjoy worship, praise and a sense of celebration as we welcomed new leadership for our Salvation Army. Please also take the opportunity to pray for our international leaders who are leading the Army in a more different world today than they could ever have imagined.
Available at: https://youtu.be/6GeGqm4ocg8
Harvest Sunday An Album From The Archives
Colonels Lee and Debbie Graves, currently in appointment as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development, are due to lead us in worship for Harvest.
Please keep all of our future events in your prayers, especially in these times of fragility in forward planning. Available at: https://www.regalzonophone.com/Albu ms/Hosea-960
The Birmingham Division present the second Gowans and Larsson musical ‘Hosea’. Gowans wrote: “The story of the faithfulness of the prophet [Hosea] to his faithless wife and the way in which he used it as a mirror of God's attitude to a people who had broken their promises provided a truly powerful subject. We were moved in the writing of it. We placed the Bible story in a modern setting to stress its relevance to the world we know best. The idea of stealing Shakespeare's habit of setting a play within the play appealed to me enormously, and we wrote a 25-minute mini-musical into Hosea to underline its major message.”
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CHORAL CORNER Captain Callum Newton One of my favourite songster pieces is His Provision and I am delighted that it found its way in to the 2015 edition of our Songbook (316). I enjoy the beauty found in its simplicity. Although John Gowans and John Larsson are known for their musical collaboration, we should not assume that they always worked together. John Gowans wrote the words of this lovely song about our personal vulnerability, and another great Army composer, Bandmaster Ivor Bosanko, wrote the music. John Gowans, as he so often did, provides words of great testimony and witness as well as petition for more of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Bandmaster Ivor Bosanko took the words and set them to a beautiful yet uncomplicated melody which allows the message to reach right to the hearts of those singing and hearing this song. I am rarely failed to be moved by the singing of this song in sincerity by Salvationists who know the power of God in our lives at dark times and moments of weakness. I pray that you will be ‘daily made aware’ of the ‘everlasting arms of love’.
Listen here: https://youtu.be/vJVHy6SnL8Y Holy Spirit! Promised presence fall on me. Holy Spirit! Make me all I long to be. Holy Spirit! Holy Spirit! Give Your power to me, O Holy Spirit.
PRAYER MATTERS Corps Prayer Diary – September 6th - 13th People and Prayer • Pray for the Johnstone family as they grieve the loss of Mary. • Pray for Cadet Abigail Gray as she begins life in London and at William Booth College and for an enthusiasm for the studies ahead. • Pray for all the new cadets of Abigail’s session, the Messengers of Reconciliation, as they all prepare to begin officer training.
May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
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Margaret Alison Booth and family Ronnie Boyle Simone Brown Aileen Brown, Miguel and Nicola Elizabeth Brodie Thelma Buchan Heather Burns People News
Grace Johnstone has been bereaved of her mother Mary this week. Plans are being made for the funeral. Please remember Grace and all her family in your prayers. Louise Ouston has been accepted to begin studying a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy at Southampton University. She is grateful for all the prayers, love and support she has received from Aberdeen Citadel. Please continue to remember her in your prayers.
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MUSIC BOX Bandmaster John Still The song “Make me a channel of your peace” is a very popular Christian song written by Sebastian Temple in 1967, it is thought to be a musical setting of the well-known Prayer of Saint Francis. The prayer is widely attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi, but these words never appeared in any of his writings. The words of the song are about transformation - the movement from hatred to love, from darkness to light, from despair to hope. Due to its use of broadly inclusive language, the words of this song have been adopted by many religions throughout the world, it has appeared in many hymnals and is number 608 in the Salvation Army song book. It is also the anthem of the Royal British Legion and is usually included in the Legion’s Annual Festival of Remembrance. William Himes, former Bandmaster of the Chicago Staff Band, has taken Sebastian Temple's song and skilfully produced a simple yet effective hymn tune arrangement. As the piece draws to its conclusion it fades away to feature a brief reference to Eric Ball's tune for "Peace in our time, O Lord" Make me a channel of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me bring your love. Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord, And where there's doubt, true faith in you.
Listen here: https://youtu.be/iiMujnqKRqw Oh, Master, grant that I may never seek So much to be consoled as to console, To be understood, as to understand, To be loved, as to love with all my soul. Make me a channel of your peace. Where there's despair in life, let me bring hope. Where there is darkness, only light, And where there's sadness ever joy. Make me a channel of your peace. It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, In giving to all men that we receive, And in dying that we're born to eternal life.
Generally Speaking Shaw Clifton, (1945–) was the 18th General of The Salvation Army from 2006 to 2011. During his years in office, Clifton maintained a close interest in the connection between Christianity and social-ethical issues. He helped to shape current Salvationist positional statements on ethical issues. Clifton advocated a role for churches in social action, not just in social service. He actively worked for heightened awareness of, and greater opposition to, human trafficking. His convictions on the Army's calling to work for social justice gave rise to the establishing of the international social justice commission based in New York near to the United Nations. He is known for writing and speaking on the practical possibility of living a pure and holy life in the secular world, by divine indwelling and grace.
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GETTING TO KNOW YOU Christa Reid What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? There’s always two sides to a story and it’s important to hear both, before deciding which one might be ‘the truth’. Which book (apart from the Bible) would you want on a desert island? I don’t read books anymore – I’d love a music player filled with worship music. What hobbies or interests do you enjoy in your spare time? Volunteering, card making and listening to music. What is your favourite Bible verse? The Armour of God – Ephesians 6:11-17 11 Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms… Christa has recently been working with us as a volunteer in the reception on Mondays and Fridays.
Which Bible figure would you like to meet, and what would you ask them? Mary. How did it feel being the mother of Jesus?
When did you first come to Aberdeen Salvation Army and why?
Where is your favourite place in and around Aberdeen?
When I was a teenager, I was friends with a girl whose Dad was The beach and Footdee/Fittie. the caretaker here, so that’s when I got into the Citadel. Something interesting people might not know When we can travel freely again, about you is? where would you like to go? I’m a trained, sighted guide for Visually Impaired people.
China or Japan If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose? Queen Victoria What is your favourite food? Chicken – in any format! If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play? The Avengers – Emma Peel What is your favourite hymn or worship song? Onward Christian Soldiers
What have you missed most during lockdown? Meeting friends and going for a coffee and cake somewhere in the city centre. If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be? Patience! What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned? A Cliff Richard tape – can’t remember which one!
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GILLY PARISH ART www.GillyParishArt.com Artist Gilly Parish from Sale Corps of The Salvation Army, uses Gilly has made the below artwork available to us for publishing her talents to not only teach art in schools in her locality but also in the Castlegate News for which we are very grateful. Take to illustrate scripture verses and prayers. You can find her work time to reflect upon the verse of scripture and perhaps colour on the website above and also on Facebook. in the page as you pray.
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