COMMISSIONING | NEW CADETS | SILVER STAR | DROVING | SOCIAL JUSTICE | KENYAN EXPERIENCE | WWJV Read me at: pipelineonline.org
THE SALVATION ARMY AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY JANUARY 2014 VOLUME 18 ISSUE 1
TAKING UP THEIR CROSS 2012-13 ‘Disciples’ commissioned as officers ARTICLES BY
COMMISSIONER JAMES CONDON | CAPTAIN JULIANA MUSILIA | MAJOR DAVID WOODBURY | MAJOR CAROLYN HARMER
A PLACE FOR EVERY CHRISTIAN TO LEARN, CHALLENGE AND GROW Booth College offers a flexible, caring learning environment with a variety of study options for both short and accredited courses. • Biblical Studies • Chaplaincy • Community Services • Leadership • Management • Pastoral Counselling • Preaching • Telephone Counselling • Theology • Worship • Youth Work
BOOTHCOLLEGE.EDU.AU
To discover the best option for you, call our team today on 02 9502 0432, email enquiries@boothcollege.edu.au or visit boothcollege.edu.au
16
Photo: Shairon Paterson
COVER STORY
11
REFLECTING ON MARY’S EXAMPLE Lieutenant Tamaryn Townsend epitomised the theme of the graduating session of 2012-2013 cadets when she painted a word picture of Mary Magdalene at Commissioning last month.
REGULARS 5
TC@PIPELINE
6
INTEGRITY
25 SOUL FOOD 28 ARMY ARCHIVES 32 WHAT WOULD JESUS VIEW 34 SOCIAL JUSTICE 35 COALFACE NEWS
FEATURES
08 TAKING UP THEIR CROSS Twenty new Salvation Army officers were ordained and commissioned by the Australia Eastern Territory at Sydney Town Hall last month.
16
DROVING THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED Farmers in Queensland are droving their cattle in search of feed and The Salvation Army is there to ease the hardship associated with this desperate measure.
22 MARK OF A MAN Two decades of Salvation Army officership has left Major Mark Watts a wiser man when it comes to the role he fulfils in the service of God.
CREATIVE MINISTRY SUPPLEMENT Vibrant energy, sincere faith of the PNG singers.
The Salvation Army | WILLIAM BOOTH, Founder International Headquarters, 101 Queen Victoria street London EC4P 4EP | André Cox, General Australia Eastern Territory, 140 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000 | James Condon, Commissioner, Territorial Commander Bruce Harmer, Major, Communications and Public Relations Secretary | Managing Editor, Dean Simpson | Graphic design, Kem Pobjie | Cover photo, Carolyn Hide Pipeline is a publication of the Communications Team | Editorial and correspondence: Address: PO Box A435, Sydney South NSW 1235 | Phone: (02) 9266 9690 | www.salvos.org.au | Email: eastern.editorial@aue.salvationarmy.org Published for: The Salvation Army, Australia Eastern Territory, by Commissioner James Condon Printed by: SOS Print + Media Group, 65 Burrows Rd, Alexandria, NSW 2015, Australia, Print Post Approved PP236902/00023
DEAN SIMPSON, MANAGING EDITOR
A new you for the new year “The object of a New Year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul and a new nose; new feet, a new backbone, new ears and new eyes. Unless a particular man made New Year resolutions, he would make no resolutions. Unless a man starts afresh about things, he will certainly do nothing effective.” – GK Chesterton 9 January
A
t this time each year, I often think of this quote by the English writer and lay theologian GK Chesterton (1874-1936). What he is essentially saying is that a new year offers a clean slate, a chance to put any regrets or failures behind us and make a fresh start. I recall Oprah Winfrey, the popular American talk-show host, saying something like: “I don’t make resolutions at New Year’s, as I try to live my life properly every day.” That has value, however sometimes it is good to reflect on the past in order to make improvements for the future. Statistics show that about 40 per cent of Australian adults make New Year’s resolutions. The percentage of those who maintain those resolutions for more than a week is, of course, considerably low, but it is still a worthwhile exercise to take stock of where we are, and where we want to be by the year’s end. This includes facing our weaknesses or setbacks in the year gone by and setting goals to move us forward. In Philippians 3:13-14, the apostle Paul states: “No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing:
Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven.” Twenty new Salvation Army officers are at the starting line, taking their first tentative steps into a life of full-time service for the Lord. In this issue, Pipeline reviews the Commissioning weekend with all its colour and ceremony, and then introduces 10 new cadets who are making a fresh start in life by entering college for two years of intensive training. Whether you have dedicated your life to full-time service for the Lord as a Salvation Army officer, or using your gifts to serve in your local corps, God is always looking for renewal in the hearts and lives of his people to make them more effective. And GK Chesterton probably got it right all those years ago – God is not looking for the new year to make a new person, he is looking for a new person in the new year. Pray that this year will have you growing new eyes, new ears, new feet and achieving so much more than you ever have.
Sign up to receive:
Direct
from the
Direct from the
Direct
from the
from the 4
TC@PIPELINE
LET GOD WRITE YOUR STORY THIS YEAR What will be your story in 2014? Commissioner JAMES CONDON says if it’s a story inspired by God, then it will be a good year
“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.” Brad Paisley (American musician).
Commissioner James Condon is Territorial Commander of the Australia Eastern Territory
W
hen I read this quote, I wondered what lay ahead for me in 2014. I began to think of things that were already planned and in my diary for the new year. Of course, I realise there will be the unexpected and the unplanned that will happen during 2014. We all have schedules and appointments set by dates on a calendar. We measure time by months and years. We know the seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. Should time be measured in another way? We know the dates of our life. The date we were born, commenced school, finished school, commenced university, started work, date we were married, the dates our children were born. Some of us are not good at remembering dates. The writer of Ecclesiastes says there is a time and season for every event under heaven. As I think back on 2013, I was close to some people who lost loved ones during that year. So the words from Ecclesiastes “there is a time to weep and a time to mourn” is relevant. I know others who have married during 2013, so the words “a time to dance, a time to embrace” seem to suit that event. The year 2013 for me was challenging to say the least. As we approach the new year, we do so with confidence in God, recalling His promise, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”. Yes, the diary may be written up with many
appointments, yet the quote from Brad is very true. I have often thought about writing a book and my wife Jan and I have talked about writing a book on particular appointments where we have served. Whether we get to write a book when we retire is yet to be seen. We could all write a book, but as Brad Paisley says, “tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.” That is what I want to do in 2014. I continue to seek the guidance and wisdom of the Lord. I continue to do my best to keep my eyes on him and to hear from him. To keep in step with the Spirit and obey his voice. At times I find there are so many voices speaking into my life, but it is his that I want to hear. It is his story that I want to write. It is his servant that I want to be. I conclude with some good advice written by Pablo – 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Count your blessings first Whatever you did last year – do it better Go step by step, one day at a time Create/make your own opportunities Believe in your abilities at all times Quitting is not an option. Keep going Finish what you started
I also call to mind the words from Proverbs 16:1: “We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer.” Have a happy New Year, in the service of God, where he has called you, where he has placed you.
pipeline 01/2014 5
integrity
HOLINESS IN AN AFRICAN CONTEXT
In the latest instalment of a Pipeline series written by members of The Salvation Army’s International Doctrine Council and entitled “Holiness and …”, Captain JULIANA MUSILIA says holy living is a discipline and requires obedience to God’s will in our lives
6
“B
e holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16), “Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart” (Psalm 24:3-4). These are Bible texts you may often hear quoted in sermons on holiness and the need for purity in the Church. Holiness is the state of being pure, holy, sacred, or simply striving to be like Jesus. Scripture commands us to pursue peace with all men and holiness in order to see God (Hebrews 12:14). God calls his people to holy living – to live as his children and with a vision of his Kingdom (Romans 1:7). It is impossible for Christians to live this holy life in their own strength. But through the help and leading of the Holy Spirit it is possible. The Christian Church in Africa, as part of the Church universal, is equally called to holy living – without exception. This does not mean a life of sinless perfection, but
simply advocates a life focused on Jesus Christ and his perfection as our example. It is the Holy Spirit’s shaping of the Church to Christlikeness, which means conforming to his standards and not of the world’s (Romans 12:2). We who believe in Christ are called to live out Kingdom values in this world and show that difference, by living a life where we practise holiness. As I listen to many sermons in different corps, more and more preaching is based on miracles, gifts and the prosperity gospel, to the detriment of holiness teaching which is given little emphasis. While I agree that all these topics are necessary to a balanced preaching program in corps and helping our people to grow spiritually, I still feel that the doctrine of holiness is not treated as seriously as it deserves, as was clearly demonstrated in the Early Church (Acts 2). Their holy living resulted in powerful and effective witness, which led to many
Integrity
people being saved. Therefore, the subject of holiness should be tackled indepth, leading people to greater biblical insights and human understanding so that the Church will embrace holy living to honour God.
One culture in Christ
The African culture, like many others, has a wealth of values and a rich heritage which needs to be preserved, as it brings the beauty and diversity found in creation to Christianity. Christians belong to each other and are called to one culture in Christ. This takes precedence and unifies the Church in the world. Anything in our context that is not in line with the Word of God has no place in our lives. Furthermore, the Bible is our measuring rod and sets the standard for our Christian practice. Many people (in the African context) hide behind tribal or traditional norms that may be required by a certain group. But if this practice is not in line with Scripture and does not bring glory to God’s name, then it’s wrong! Regardless of culture we need to engage in behaviour that honours God and promotes holy living. Music is one of our strengths within the African culture and is widely and enthusiastically used in the Army and the Christian Church. The Bible is filled with songs that express human emotions to God. In ministry, music has the power to bring healing to the soul. Through the singing of Army songs in meetings or individually in devotional times, we sing the truths of our doctrines and theology, constantly reminding ourselves of the faith we profess. I would affirm this and encourage you to sing songs with holiness themes. It is also helpful to be open to learning contemporary Christian songs that speak to our culture today, while preserving and promoting traditional songs. However, it’s unfortunate that in some instances Salvation Army songs are rarely used in our worship meetings. It surprises me to see Salvationists walking into Army meetings without their song books, and more congregations seem
driven to singing choruses rather than Salvation Army songs. While I agree that this is a way of contextualising music, I regret that in many cases choruses have neither biblical foundation nor theological meaning for Salvationists. It seems that people sing merely for musical enjoyment. I would strongly encourage our people to continue appreciating Salvation Army songs because in so doing, we open ourselves to the leading of the Holy Spirit and learn biblical truths and doctrinal teaching appropriate to Salvationists.
‘Plastic holiness’
When we talk about holiness in today’s moral climate we mean “being real”. The world has many fantasies and illusions and things are not always as they seem. This has become part of the Christian Church where, unfortunately, there is evidence of hypocrisy and sin that portray a “plastic holiness” - a holiness that is easily proclaimed but not evidenced in the lives of believers. For many Salvationists, the disregard of our “non-negotiables” has become the norm as has the attitude that it can only be wrong when and if they are found out. It is sad how people cover up sin and manage to come out looking good, even when a sin has been committed. The truth is that God knows everything about us – our innermost thoughts. Nothing can be hidden from him (Psalm 139:7-13). God created and calls us to hold on to what is true and live it in our daily lives. Just knowing biblical facts about holiness is not enough to make us holy. We need to walk the talk! Being a Christian is costly. It is a challenge to live a holy life, yet it is possible. Just as holiness pleases God, it displeases the enemies of the Kingdom and the evil forces at work in the world. To live as a follower of Christ and to love your neighbour as yourself is, in itself, an act of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12). Christians should be alert and prepared with the full armour of God; it begins with being our
”Just knowing biblical facts about holiness is not enough to make us holy. We need to walk the talk!” brother’s keeper. Instead of hatred, treating others with dignity but not undermining them, and choosing not to spread gossip about others. We have to choose a more Christ-like approach and response in all situations. Making godly choices by counting others better than ourselves and affirming one another in a Christ-like love. All of which is evidence of holy living. God is growing the Christian Church in Africa and it’s getting larger every day, so I encourage everyone to deepen their spiritual lives and seek to grow more in holiness, for we are Christ’s ambassadors in this world. Holy living is a discipline and requires obedience to God’s will in our lives. Together with Paul we “press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 3:12-14). Captain Juliana Musilia is the education officer at The Salvation Army Leadership Training college in the Kenya East Territory
pipeline 01/2014 7
Feature | Commissioning
TAKING UP THEIR T
wenty new officers were ordained and commissioned by the Australia Eastern Territory at Sydney Town Hall on 1 December. The ordination and commissioning of cadets of the Disciples of the Cross session was conducted by the Territorial Commander, Commissioner James Condon. It was a very personal moment for each cadet, the Commissioner said, and for their families, friends and many who had invested into their lives. “I know these cadets personally. You may not see the tear in my eye, but you may hear the quiver in my voice (as they are ordained and commissioned),” he said. Most of the new lieutenants were appointed to positions in NSW and Queensland. Two, John and Rose Raga, were appointed back to their Papua New Guinea Territory. Couple officers Bradley and Helen Whittle were appointed Corps Officers at Mt Isa with additional roles in recovery and women’s services; Mark and Tamaryn Townsend (Corps Officers Dubbo); Ian and Suzanne McIver (Corps Officers at Fassifern Valley); Lydia Hong and Sean Li (Associate Corps Officers at Hurstville); Bradley and Jocelyn McIver (Corps Officers Miranda); Donna and Troy Munro (Corps Officers at Forbes/Parkes); and Asena and Heath Firkin (Corps Officers at Armidale). Single officer appointments included Nicola Stowe (Riverview Gardens Aged Care Services Chaplain); Andrew Jones (Corps Officer at Wellington); and Winnie Ng (Assistant Corps Officer at Chatswood). Carolyn O’Brien, who had been an envoy and Assistant Corps Officer at Sydney Congress Hall, was ordained and commissioned a lieutenant and continues in her role. Commending the Disciples of the Cross to Commissioner Condon, School for Officer Training Principal Major Stuart Evans said: “This young and not-so-young session have a strong desire to be obedient to God’s calling on their life and strive to be known as Christ-centred people, placing Calvary and its meaning at the heart of all they do.” He encouraged the new officers to “imitate God in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ,” he said.
8
Commissioning | Feature
“This young and notso-young session have a strong desire to be obedient to God’s calling on their life and strive to be known as Christ-centred people, placing Calvary and its meaning at the heart of all they do.”
Commissioner James Condon conducts the commissioning of the Disciples of the Cross session of cadets. Photo: Carolyn Hide
pipeline 01/2014 9
Feature | Commissioning
Bearing burden of true discipleship worth the weight
Calling on God’s strength
R
I
eal disciples are characterised by love, commitment to the Word of God, self denial and fruits of the Spirit, according to Australia Eastern Territory Chief Secretary Colonel Richard Munn. Addressing the Sending Out of new officers of the Disciples of the Cross session at Sydney Town Hall on 1 December, Colonel Munn challenged the lieutenants and entire congregation to seriously consider the meaning of discipleship. A disciple was not necessarily somebody who went to church, was a senior soldier of The Salvation Army, gave in the offering plate, or even received Christ as Saviour and loved the Lord, he said. Firstly, there was love. Jesus said (John 13:34-35): Love one another; even as I have loved you. By this, all will know that you are my disciples. “Are you known as a loving person? Is your congregation perceived as a loving group of people?” Colonel Munn asked. Jesus said (John 8:31): If you continue in my Word, you are truly my disciples. “We may have graduated from high school, but our learning is
10
not over. We may have sat through years of Sunday school classes, but our learning is not over. Become a student of the Bible,” he said. Jesus said (Luke 14:27): Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. “This is the forgotten or neglected mark of a disciple,” Colonel Munn said. “It isn’t popular teaching, especially when we accept so completely the bombardment that self-fulfilment and gratification are inalienable rights. “There is a cost to be paid in knowing Christ. It isn’t cheap, but it’s worth it. “Today, the cost may be rejection by family and friends, ridicule by peers and loss of lucrative positions or lifestyles.” Jesus said (John 15:8): By this is my father glorified, that you bear much fruit and, so, prove to be my disciples. “The fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. “So, how will we recognise true disciples? By love, commitment to the Word, self-denial and fruits of the Spirit.”
n a public testimony, new lieutenant Ian McIver told of tragedy, trauma and triumph, culminating in his call to officership. He recalled kneeling with his grandmother on the family farmhouse floor when he was six years old, committing his life to Christ. God had always been with him, he said, whatever the circumstance of life. “As a young father burying two baby daughters, I knew him as my comforter. Carrying the tiny body of my first grandson to the morgue, my heavenly father walked beside me and gave me strength. “As a young man forced into retirement before my 40th birthday because of ill health, he became my peace, my hope, my joy. “At a time in my life when the world had pushed me to one side and I felt I had nothing to offer, God made it clear that he had other plans. “The first week of March 2009, God made his calling clear.” Among entries in his personal journal for that week, he wrote: “God has called me to seek the lost and to feed his sheep. Please, Lord, accept my humble sacrifice.”
Commissioning | Feature
Following Christ costs a good deal
Reflecting on Mary’s example
T
R
erritorial President of Women’s Ministries, Commissioner Jan Condon, chose the television game show title Deal or No Deal as the subject for her Bible message, based on Mark 10:17-31 and Matthew 16: 24-28. Jesus had an encounter with a young rich man and sadly, she said, the man chose his wealth rather than Jesus. “Every choice has a consequence,” Commissioner Condon said. “Jesus was not negotiating a deal with the young man. He was simply calling this young man to surrender and trust him completely. If we want to be disciples of Jesus, then the deal is outlined by Jesus when he said to his disciples: ‘If anyone wants to follow in my footsteps, he must give up all right to himself, take up his cross and follow me’. It is going to cost you to be a disciple of Jesus.”
Denying ourselves, she said, meant to completely give control of our life to Christ. Taking up our cross meant that authentic discipleship was a sacrificial lifestyle. It was a life not lived solely for our own interests or ends. We are to die daily to anything that gets in the way of us knowing, loving, serving and following Jesus. Following Jesus was to be a way of life. It was to be the pattern for living. “The deal is we need to become totally devoted followers of Jesus Christ and leave all to follow Him,” the Commissioner said. Chief Secretary Colonel Richard Munn, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries Colonel Janet Munn, Booth College Principal Major Howard Smartt and Parramatta band also contributed to the Ordination and Commissioning service.
epresenting the newly ordained and commissioned officers, Lieutenant Tamaryn Townsend painted a word picture of Mary Magdalene at the Cross seeking to understand her journey with Jesus, his death and where it would take her. “We (the Disciples of the Cross) have spent two years of intense preparation and now we, like Mary, kneel at the Cross and look into an unknown future,” she said. “Every one of the Disciples of the Cross is about to embark on a new season as we leave college. Just as Mary was not without her light, we, too, go out with the light of the world. “The Cross and resurrection of Jesus enabled Mary to be empowered to join in proclaiming the good news. The Cross enables us to go with the resurrection and life within us. “It started for Mary at the Cross; authentic discipleship always does. The Cross is at the centre of it all.” Contributions to the Sending Out service were also made by new lieutenants John Raga (prayer), Joycelyn McIver (Scripture) and Helen Whittle (song), children of the new officers (DVD), Training Officer Captain Dr Grant Sandercock Brown (mission opportunities) and Territorial Commander Commissioner James Condon (appointments blessing and benediction).
FROM TOP LEFT: Colonel Richard Munn gives his address at the Sending Out service on the Sunday afternoon; Ian McIver salutes on being commissioned as a lieutenant; Commissioner Jan Condon gives her Bible message during the Sunday morning Ordination and Commissioning service (Photo: Bruce Harmer); Tamaryn Townsend kneels at the cross during her word picture portraying Mary Magdalene. Photos: Carolyn Hide
pipeline 01/2014 11
Feature | Commissioning
12
Commissioning | Feature
Celebrations all round for cadets By MAJOR CAROLYN HARMER
Graduation Fever
Cadets of the Disciples of the Cross session had reason to celebrate leading up to their commissioning weekend as they received their diplomas during a ceremony held at The Salvation Army Earlwood Corps. This was the culmination of a significant academic achievement following two years of residential training, the second stage of a three-stage holistic and integrated officer training. Each stage [pre-college, in-college and post-college] contributes to the ongoing development of character and capacity through growth in theological understanding, ministry skills, and Christian maturity. During the ceremony individual cadets were recognised for their high level of achievement in specific areas. The William Cairns Award –
Spiritual Formation, was given to Cadet Heath Firkin. Cadet Helen Whittle received the William Cairns Award – Field, while her husband, Cadet Brad Whittle, received the William Cairns Award – Academic. Cadet Ian McIver received the Training Principal’s Award for allround achievement, dedication and service to the college. Major Dr Alan Harley was the guest speaker for the evening, encouraging the cadets to be biblically focused, gospel orientated, doctrinally sound, and Christ centred. As Cadet Brad Whittle addressed his session as the representative speaker, he asked them to reflect on what they had made of their time in college, what God had made of them during that time, and what they would make of their future. He reminded them that the God who called them is the God who will enable them.
Silver Stars beaming
The fellowship of the Silver Star recognises the influence of parents, and significant family and friends, on the lives of their officer children. The Disciples of the Cross acknowledged the impact each of those people have had on their lives as they embark on their life in fulltime ministry. As part of the commissioning weekend the Training Principal hosted a special luncheon reception where certificates and Silver Star pins were presented to each parent celebrating their child’s ordination. Commissioner James Condon spoke about growing in grace saying “growth can be difficult and painful, but it is necessary to move forward.” He acknowledged the growth in the Disciples of the Cross over the past two years at the Training College and thanked God for each of them.
ABOVE LEFT: Commissioners James and Jan Condon congratulate Brad and Helen Whittle on their graduation from the Disciples of the Cross session of cadets. Photo: Bruce Harmer. ABOVE RIGHT: Commissioner Jan Condon hands Silver Star certificates to Envoys Gordon and Lyn Jones in honour of their son Andrew. Photo: Carolyn Hide. FACING PAGE: Photographer Carolyn Hide captures the colour and ceremony of Commissioning Sunday at the Sydney Town Hall.
pipeline 01/2014 13
Feature | Cadets
Messengers of Light session enters Booth College As 20 newly commissioned Salvation Army officers take up their appointments, another 10 new cadets begin two years of study at the School for Officer Training in Sydney as part of the Messengers of Light session. Pipeline introduces the candidates who have been accepted for the 2014-15 session.
Perry and Bronwyn Lithgow (Joshua, Rebecca, Zachary)
Matthew and JodieMaree Sutcliffe (Emma, Caitlyn, Sarah)
Batemans Bay Corps ACT and South NSW Division
Wyndham City Corps Australia Southern Territory
Victor and Vicki Keenan Moree Corps North NSW Division
Paul and Jessica Farthing (Patrick) Greater West Division
Frank Wang and Belinda Zhou (Flidon Ye Fei Wang, Hannah Ye Xuan Wang) Campsie Corps Sydney East and Illawarra Division
14
Since the start of last year, a Royal Commission has been investigating how institutions, among them The Salvation Army, have dealt with allegations of child sexual abuse. Later this month, the commission will begin public hearings in Sydney, warning that many of the stories of abuse and mistreatment of children will be shocking. Australia Eastern Territorial Commander Commissioner JAMES CONDON updates Pipeline readers of how The Salvation Army is preparing for the hearing
D
ear friends, I want to share with you the news that the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse will be holding a public hearing into The Salvation Army commencing 28 January 2014. The focus will be on four boys homes: • Alkira Salvation Army Home for Boys, Indooroopilly, QLD • Riverview Training Farm (known as Endeavour Training Farm), Riverview, QLD • Bexley Boys’ Home, Bexley, NSW • Gill Memorial Home, Goulburn, NSW The Royal Commission will hear evidence from men who were in the homes and suffered abuse. There is no doubt that people will be distressed by some of the tragic accounts which will be given. Please join with me in prayer that those who testify will find some healing through this experience. Several of them have not yet been in touch with our Professional Standards Office, and we want to reach out to them after they have testified. We need to expect that witnesses will name certain officers as abusers years ago. The Commission will also consider the way The Salvation Army managed any allegations of abuse which came to its attention at that time. The Commission states: “The hearing will also examine The Salvation Army’s processes in investigating, disciplining, removing and/transferring anyone
accused of, or found to have engaged in, child sexual abuse in these homes.” Over the past nine months we have been supplying large quantities of documents and records to the Commission in response to summonses we have received. We anticipate further summonses in the coming weeks, as the Commission prepares for the hearing. This work, which has seen us compile detailed database, has given us a much fuller picture. We have been at all times transparently honest with the Commission and intend to remain so. We intend to carry out further investigations ourselves, in order to have the most accurate answers we can give. Nothing is being concealed or held back. A working group led by Major Peter Farthing, Royal Commission Response Coordinator, and including Luke Geary of Salvos Legal, members of the Professional Standards Office team, and Major Bruce Harmer, meet regularly to develop our best response. The Communications and Public Relations Team is also developing careful plans for media work. We are also in discussions with the Southern Territory. We anticipate that the Army’s spokespeople at the hearings will be myself and Major Peter Farthing. The Army will be represented by a very able senior barrister. This hearing will not be the last. Quite possibly a future hearing will look into the way we provide restorative justice and assistance to people who report past abuse.
As the Royal Commission does its work, people may speak with you about The Salvation Army’s response to child sexual abuse. Please listen respectfully. It is wise not to try to defend ourselves, or to minimise the wrongs done. Here are some key messages: 1. The Salvation Army openly admits to serious past failures, and apologises to all who were harmed. 2. The Salvation Army today is responding to allegations of past abuse with compassion and honesty. 3. The Salvation Army makes payments to victims out of surpluses from our humanitarian enterprises, not from donated funds such as the Red Shield Appeal. 4. The Salvation Army encourages any person who was abused in any way to contact our Professional Standards Office (02 9266 9781). 5. Today’s Salvation Army has strong policies in place to protect children and it ensures those policies reflect that the protection of children is the most serious of our obligations. Please pray as we approach the hearing. Above all pray that we will act justly and compassionately towards all who have been wronged. Pray that we will speak the truth about all matters and all people, being fair to all. James Condon Territorial Commander The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory
pipeline 01/2014 15
The Royal Commission
Royal Commission announces dates for public hearing into Salvation Army
DROVING THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
16
Decades of prolonged droughts and devastating floods have wrought a terrible toll on farmers in many parts of NSW and Queensland. Some farmers, with no feed on their properties and debts skyrocketing, have made a desperate attempt to save their livestock and livelihood by taking their cattle droving – searching for grass along traditional stock routes just to keep the animals alive. Pipeline photographer SHAIRON PATERSON and journalist SIMONE WORTHING spent two days with Don and Kim Noon, graziers in southern inland Queensland, to capture first-hand the heartaches and challenges of droving, the demands placed on those left behind to manage the farm, the dignity and resilience of the people who have already endured so much and how The Salvation Army is playing its part.
Feature | Droving
“If the rain comes we will know it was a good decision to go droving.”
D
on and Kim Noon work together on their two properties on the Maranoa River, south of Mitchell in southern Queensland. They run 700 cows and 1000 sheep and, like all farmers, have faced extremes in weather for decades. “That’s Australia all over,” says Don. “It’s always feast or famine. We just didn’t expect it to go from one extreme to the other so quickly.” Two summers ago, the Maranoa River was a raging torrent. The subsequent floods destroyed feed and infrastructure, and also damaged many homes. This was on top of the 2010 floods, some tough years of low rainfall prior to that, and a handful of years from 2000 battling crippling drought. “Some of those seasons are a bit of a blur,” says Don quietly. In early May last year, the river was little more than a puddle, with forecasts of a long dry spell ahead. Don knew his cattle wouldn’t survive the critical feed shortage or bring a reasonable price on the market. So, for the first time in his farming life, he decided to pack up and take the cattle droving. “We were trying to recoup
18
losses and keep stock alive,” he explains. Don and his small team of helpers set off with a gas camping shower and a little camping stove in a caravan, but mostly cooked on a fire and slept in swags elevated from the ground to escape the frost. They headed south down the Maranoa River, south of St George and towards Thallon and Mungindi, travelling the required 10km per day along stock routes. “We ended up around Goondiwindi, 200km from home, and were away for four months,” says Don. “There was a bit of feed then and the cows did pretty well and picked up a bit which is a positive. If the rain comes we will know it was a good decision to go droving. If not, the wise thing would’ve been to sell them, even in the depressed market.”
Valuable support
Family and friends did all they could to support Don and Kim, from volunteering their time on the road and at the home property “Cedarvale”, to preparing and delivering food. They even loaned a team of camp draft horses to give Don’s team a break.
Don is also very grateful for the generosity and understanding shown by many graziers along the stock route. “All the landowners went out of their way to give the cattle access to water and give us a hot meal and a hot shower,” he said. “That’s made being on the road and away from home a lot easier.” While poems such as Banjo Paterson’s With the Cattle tell the story of the hard work, death and despair faced by many drovers, the concept of droving is still highly romanticised in Australian bush folklore. “I don’t know that it’s that romantic when it’s minus four or five degrees, or when you’ve got to go back and pick up a few cattle that you’ve dropped somewhere,” says Don drily. Finding water in the first month was a major challenge, as was keeping the cattle together as they walked without stressing them. “The horses were the biggest challenge because they wanted to go home all the time,” explains Don. “Sometimes they’d slip back 20km and we’d have to chase them. “There were some challenges with staff as some people weren’t used to living on top of each other
Droving | Feature
LEFT: Graziers Don and Kim Noon take a rare moment of rest and reflection on their home property “Cedarvale”; ABOVE: Kim took over the job of feeding cottonseed to 530 weaners while Don was away. Photos: Shairon Paterson
all the time,” he adds. “I tried to rotate people so everyone got a break.” Don also experienced loneliness, although he got used to it over time. “When our daughter Sam came droving with us for a few weeks, that was a great help and good tonic,” he says with a smile. Despite the tough conditions, Don also reflects on the many positive moments of his droving experience. “Just walking behind the cattle when your dogs are working well and your cattle are getting a feed is pretty pleasant,” he says. It also meant a lot to Don when a couple of the backpackers thanked him for the experience of droving and for what they had learned during their time on the road with him. As he travelled the stock routes, Don found paddocks here and there where he could drop off a few cows for agistment. This became increasingly urgent as the cows began to calve. While Don was on the road, Kim was busy feeding cottonseed to 530 weaners on Cedarvale and keeping them alive. Feeding involved three “ute-loads” of heavy
cottonseed, and a supplement of lick to help them digest poorquality vegetation. Kim also took over the bookkeeping jobs, although inexperienced. “The longest I’d been on my own before was a night or two, so weeks at a time took a lot of getting used to,” shares Kim. “In the beginning I was very sad and overwhelmed with all Don’s jobs that I had to do. I know how much he works now!” As Kim got used to Don being away, she worked out all that had to be done and just did it. “I just had to,” she said. “I am glad though, that it’s over now.” Despite the challenges of farming, Kim appreciates life in the country. “We can grow all our own food, we look out at a beautiful landscape and it’s peaceful. “This is much better than a lot of people have in the city. I think we’re very lucky.”
Salvos assistance
Captain Mark Bulow, corps officer at Dalby and pilot for The Salvation Army Flying Service, made contact with the Noons during the 2012 floods. He has visited them several times since, providing material
assistance and also helping out on their farm. This year, when he heard they had no feed or water on the property and that Don was considering droving, he again called in. “They’d had it tough for years so I was able to assist them with donations from the flood appeal, for food for the horses and expenses on the road,” Captain Bulow explains. “What we have is what other people give us and I have the honour to distribute that. I want to find those who are struggling and help them.” Kim and Don enjoy having Captain Bulow visit them. “We don’t need help but it is much appreciated,” says Kim. “And we really like Mark. He’s so normal. And he knows a lot about farming life.” For Don, Captain Bulow is a good sounding board. “I’ve known him for nearly two years and he is very humble in the way he’s helped us,” says Don. “Sometimes he will just call in with something, like pliers, and his support has been generous. The Salvation Army has really looked after us. Life is good; sometimes it just tests us.”
pipeline 01/2014 19
Feature | Droving
ANNE PLOUGHS ON AFTER DECADE OF SETBACKS
A
nne has farming in her blood. She grew up in Dulacca, near Roma, where her parents were share farmers. Throughout their married life, Anne and her late husband, John, owned cattle stations and farmed, from Miles 140km east of Roma to “Begonia” 230km to the south. They also worked during the week – John was a hospital manager in different places and Anne worked in maternal and child health. “We lived in town for work and farmed on the weekend, often until 10pm and even after we’d had our two boys,” says Anne. “We rarely had a holiday and it was tough, but full-time work got us through the droughts, helped us buy feed, and we could pay off some debts.” Anne’s husband John died suddenly from a massive heart attack while walking on the property on 12 January 2012. “It was such a shock, so unexpected,” says Anne quietly. “We had his funeral in Toowoomba and afterwards I was
20
in Brisbane with our son Trent and we got news of the floods. Our house in Roma had flooded for the third year in a row, and our home on “Begonia” had extensive damage.” By the time Anne got back to “Begonia”, friends, family and neighbours had been there to pull up rotting carpets and clean the inside of the house. “They are just incredible people,” she says.
Learning curve
Family, friends and the local community have been a source of enormous support to Anne. “Good friends came from everywhere and they would do anything at all to help. I just can’t express how grateful I am.” Anne was busy organising cattle; working out the finances and sorting out insurance and repairs for flood damage. “John had always done the accounts and all the numbers were in his head, so this was particularly stressful for me,” says Anne. “The most difficult thing though, and it sounds ridiculous,
was the cattle. I had to learn things like what to sell to whom and how much and what to feed which cattle. “It was a big learning curve. I didn’t have John’s knowledge and experience.” Another drought had also begun after the floods and conditions were very dry. Cattle prices had hit rock bottom and the live cattle market had all but collapsed. “I just couldn’t have done it without family and friends,” Anne says. “Begonia” also features farmstay accommodation and a coffee shop that Anne has been working on developing (begoniafarmstay.com). “I’ve had amazing people come out and amazing support,” she says.
Quiet times
Reflecting over the past two years, Anne believes it was good that she was so busy after John’s passing. “It helped me get through,” she says honestly. As time goes on, though, and
Droving | Feature
LEFT: Working with cattle was one of Anne’s biggest challenges after the death of her husband, John; ABOVE: Anne has continued to run “Begonia” in the drought and build on the legacy she and John created. Photos: Shairon Paterson
“If I ever do volunteer work, it will be with The Salvation Army, especially after all they’ve done and just being there after the floods.”
people make less contact, life is getting a little quieter. “It’s now that I’d like people to call and keep calling,” she explains. “It’s now when I need the support but understandably people go back to their normal lives. “I know, though, that they are out there if I need them.”
Salvos support
Captain Mark Bulow, Dalby corps officer with his wife, Captain Jo and pilot for The Salvation Army Flying Service, first visited Anne just after the floods in February 2012. David Howell, a part-time rural chaplain and South Queensland Divisional Coordinator for The Salvation Army Emergency Services, accompanied Captain Mark to offer their support to Anne. In the months that followed, Captain Mark, David and Salvation Army Counsellor Paul Grimmer visited “Begonia” periodically to assist Anne where they could. “We were also able to provide some financial help as a result of our flood appeal,” says Captain Mark. Anne sincerely appreciates the
help “the Salvos” have given her. “They are very special people, very positive and uplifting. It’s wonderful that they come out and encourage me,” she says. “If I ever do volunteer work, it will be with The Salvation Army, especially after all they’ve done and just being there after the floods.” Captain Mark periodically stays in the shearers’ quarters on “Begonia” when he is doing other visits in the area. “Mark has been marvellous and supportive and the Salvos are very considerate and generous,” says Anne. “The giving is definitely not one-sided. “Anne is very hospitable and lets me and people I might bring out with me, stay here any time,” says Captain Mark. “She has gone through so much yet always thinks of others.”
Simone Worthing is a writer for Pipeline and supplements
pipeline 01/2014 21
Feature | International
MARK MAN of a
AS A RAW TRAINING COLLEGE CADET, MARK WATTS BELIEVED THAT TO BE EFFECTIVE IN MISSION MEANT BEING ON THE FRONT LINES. BUT, AS HE TELLS SCOTT SIMPSON, TWO DECADES OF SALVATION ARMY OFFICERSHIP HAVE LEFT A WISER HEAD ON HIS SHOULDERS
22
S
alvation Army officership hasn’t quite been the journey that Mark Watts anticipated. Fresh-faced and eager, Mark walked into the officer training college at Bexley North in Sydney in 1992 as part of the Heralds of Jesus session of cadets. He was just 20 and ready to help make a difference in the world. And, he believed, that meant being equipped and sent to the front lines of mission. Two years later he was commissioned as a lieutenant and appointed as assistant officer at Wollongong Corps. Further corps appointments and a stint as a divisional youth secretary followed over the next seven years, all fulfilling Mark’s desire for frontline ministry. The long-held plan, he was convinced, was coming to fruition. “It was great,” recalls Mark of that time in his life. “I was heavily involved in the running of corps’ and their mission, and even the divisional youth
secretary appointment allowed me an opportunity to be involved in frontline ministry through corps and to invest in the lives of young people. It [officership] was everything I dreamed and thought it would be.” Abruptly, though, the journey took a new direction. Mark’s next appointment saw him return to Booth College, this time as a training officer. It was away from the front lines, but he consoled himself with the knowledge that he was helping to train and equip others for face-to-face ministry. Over the next decade, however, came a series of appointments it would be easy to categorise as “desk jobs”; assistant to the international secretary for personnel at International Headquarters (IHQ) in London; education officer at the training college in the Philippines; secretary to the Australia Eastern Territory Chief Secretary; a return to London as private secretary to the Chief of the Staff; Sydney again as
International | Feature
Major Mark Watts says he is happily settled in London but Australia remains close to his heart.
assistant secretary for personnel (administration); and, finally, his current role, in London again, as under-secretary for international personnel at IHQ. “I only ever imagined officership being in a corps, so the journey I’ve been on over the past decade has been a real eye-opener for me,” says Mark, now 42 and with the rank of major. “God has revealed to me the importance of being willing to serve him in whatever capacity and wherever he sends me. “I’ve learned that you’ve got to look at the purpose behind what you’re doing; do you see it as supporting what’s going on out on the front lines? For this role that I’m in now [under-secretary for international personnel] I really do see that because it’s about finding people – officers and lay people – to serve in different contexts globally. “So even though I might not be the person out there serving on the ground, I’m helping to facilitate the sharing of personnel resources on a
global basis. Having said that, I’m definitely open to an appointment that will take me back to the front lines, but I try not to think too far down the track. Three years is about the longest appointment I’ve had anywhere, but I’d certainly be willing to go back to a corps one day and be involved there again if that’s God’s plan! “But for the moment it’s an ongoing process of learning to rely on God and his sovereignty in my life.”
New challenges
Part of that deepening reliance on God has come from having to cope with the unique demands of serving as a single officer, particularly in light of the number of overseas appointments Mark has had. Four times he has had to pack up his home, get on a plane and move to a new environment overseas. “I’ve got to allow 12 months or so to settle into a place and a role,” Mark says. >>>
“I only ever imagined officership being in a corps, so the journey I’ve been on over the past decade has been a real eyeopener for me.”
pipeline 01/2014 23
Mark with then-Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Barry Swanson, and International Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Commissioner Sue Swanson, at IHQ in London. Mark served as the Chief of the Staff’s private secretary.
“Some people love it, but I’m a little quieter and it takes me a while to build relationships with people and to do that frequently can be tiring. “And as a single officer, I think it’s that little bit harder. You look at yourself sometimes and think, ‘who do I share things with, who do I offload with’. That can become tough at times, but there are other people you learn to rely on, people who understand what you’re dealing with. “My family has been great for that, but you definitely have lonely times as a single officer, especially when you’re packing for an overseas appointment – as I have a number of times – and you arrive in a new country and you’re there, by yourself, having to deal with new challenges it brings, on your own.” The darkest days of Mark’s officership came when he was serving in the Philippines in 2005. He had only been there for a few months when he developed a serious problem with his health, causing him to question his calling to full-time ministry.
24
“When I was sick was one of the hardest times,” he says. “I was in the Philippines at the time and I was flown home [to Brisbane] for surgery. You think, ‘where does God’s plan fit into all of this?’ Things that are very much a part of who you are – your calling, your ministry, your work – all that stuff had gone. And you begin to question, ‘where is God in all of this? It was hard to process everything that was going on. “But again, I can look back on that time and see how God used it to lead me to a deeper reliance on him.”
Heart in Australia
Now in his third stint at IHQ, Mark is able to reflect on a journey of Salvation Army officership that, by his own admission, has been very different to the grand vision of the enthusiastic 20-year-old who entered The Salvation Army training college more than two decades ago. “I never imagined I would have had the experiences I’ve had as an officer and the appointments I’ve
had,” he admits. “No way!” He’s happy in London, the familiarity of his surroundings and the comfort he draws from being part of the IHQ “family” helping to create a sense that the UK has become his second home. But Australia remains close to his heart. “Yes, for sure, it’ll be great to come home one day,” he says. “You don’t know what the future holds but yes, Australia is home and I look forward to returning one day, God willing. “But as far as my officership is concerned, I wouldn’t change it one bit, it’s been great. If it had been up to me, I probably would have headed in a very different direction that wouldn’t have been half as fulfilling as my officership has been. It’s just being ready to go wherever, whenever.”
Scott Simpson is a freelance writer for Pipeline
soul food
Every Christian seems to have a favourite Bible verse that has either impacted them at one stage in their walk with Christ or continues to encourage and nourish them on their spiritual journey. In this Pipeline column, selected people share their favourite piece of Scripture
My Favourite Verse – Major Mervyn Holland “You didn’t choose me, remember; I chose you, and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil. As fruit bearers, whatever you ask the Father in relation to me, he gives you,” John 15:16 (The Message).
G
od is intensely persistent and unbelievably creative in the way he persuades people to concur with his decisions. Throughout my early 20s, God’s Spirit kept intruding, trying to make me understand it isn’t about me and what I could achieve, but it’s about him and what he could accomplish in and through me. It took the pleas of an intoxicated man who approached me as I walked in my Salvo uniform from an event at Congress
Hall to Sydney’s central railway station late on a Saturday night, for me to finally get the message that I was marked out for something special. “Captain, help me. Please mate, give me something - help me,” was the man’s persistent cry. I suggested Foster House (The Salvation Army men’s crisis accommodation), only a couple of hundred metres away. “No, they won’t take me, I’m too drunk.” I left him there, got on the train and went home. But the inner battle didn’t leave; it escalated until, on my knees by my bed, I yielded and accepted that I was chosen to do something special for God. From that point on, I began to understand the truth that John records Jesus repeatedly saying: “I am the vine ... you are the branch ... I have chosen and appointed you ...” And now, nearly 50 years on, I hold to this amazing truth that I’m chosen
and appointed by God to be a branch – a conduit – through which the grace, love and mercy of Jesus flows to other Jesus flowers and to people not yet in his family. “Your call, O Lord, is not a choice; You speak to me with single voice; The inner word is ‘follow me’, My preference, Lord, would be to see This pilgrim’s plotted pathway “Inside, I want to hide. It isn’t pride – It’s fear. But from your vantage point of elevation, Before creation you knew my consternation, And you came near; Sovereignly you’ve mapped the way, Your constant call: “My child, trust me, obey.” You’re chosen by God for something special. What are you doing about it?
pipeline 01/2014 25
Feature | Kenya Mission
Renewed joy MAJOR CAROLYN HARMER AND HER HUSBAND MAJOR BRUCE HARMER RECENTLY SPENT TWO WEEKS IN KENYA SERVING ON MISSION AT JOYTOWN, THE SALVATION ARMY’S SCHOOL FOR DISABLED CHILDREN. HERE SHE SHARES HER LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE “It will be a life-changing experience.”
H
ow many times have you heard that cliché roll off the tongue? It’s often used to make something sound way better than it actually is. As I prepared to go on a recent mission trip to Kenya, and in particular Joytown – a Salvation Army school for disabled children – I even found myself cloning the phrase. I really had no idea how defining those words would be. Landing in Nairobi, my senses were working overtime taking in the sights, smells and sounds of a foreign culture in another land. It was somewhat overwhelming until I reminded myself this was my “life-changing experience.” I needed to absorb it, process it and reflect upon it, in order for that change to take place. We travelled to the township of Thika, the home of Joytown School and our base for the next two weeks. There we would work with our hands, minister with our hearts, and I would experience my life being changed.
Task at hand
A significant part of the mission trip involved manual labour and I was looking forward to serving in this practical way. After consultation with the Principal, a list of tasks was devised for our team to work on.
26
The main driveway, roundabout and reception area needed a facelift. My hard-earned sweat came with a sense of satisfaction knowing my efforts helped the staff and students feel proud about the appearance of their school. One of my tasks was to paint the central roundabout surrounding the flagpole, using the colours of the Kenyan flag. The students are proud of their flag and every Friday they have a flagraising ceremony. This is a significant part of their school activities. As I sat cross-legged on the ground and meticulously painted the stripes of the flag on the roundabout the teachers were amazed that “these Australians would sit in the Kenyan dirt and work for Joytown.” In all honesty it was an honour to serve my Kenyan friends in this way. With some prior fundraising we were able to provide a new school uniform for each student. With only one uniform in their possession, this was such a bonus to receive another one.
Tug on my heart
Investing practically in a mission trip makes a huge difference to a community, but investing emotionally ... that impacts you personally. When you allow yourself to minister from your heart that life-changing experience starts to take hold. Joytown has the ability to change the lives of everyone who enters its gates.
Kenya Mission | Feature
One day I was wheeling a student toward the dining room for lunch. This young boy was both physically and intellectually disabled and communication was a challenge. When I asked which room he wanted to go to I was surprised when he indicated a different direction. As I followed his simple hand gestures he led me to a basin and murmured “wash hands.” Unable to reach the tap himself, I assisted him in the handwashing process. We found ourselves lathering each other’s hands, sharing this hygiene ritual and simple act of dignity. This somewhat insignificant act united us both, disability or not.
Prayer for families
During our visit to Joytown the school held an open day for future enrolments. Despite only being able to take about 20 new enrolments each year, news of the open day got around and families come from everywhere. Parents came carrying children on their backs in the hope of having them placed at the school. On this day I was sitting quietly on my own, painting the roundabout. As the families waited patiently to be interviewed I found myself praying for them. My prayer was that somehow they would know a hope found in Jesus through the ministry of Joytown. I met a young girl at Joytown, her name was Faith. Although she lived with a physical disability, Faith was extremely intelligent. She told me that one day she’d like to be a doctor. Like her namesake, she had faith to believe her dream was attainable. Faith would lead the students when they sang at assembly. A favourite song was Winner. The simple words were: Winner, Jesus you are the winner, Battle-battle you won forever, winner. As they sang those words with their faces beaming I learnt a huge lesson. No matter what our daily circumstances are we can have eternal victory through Jesus.
Trait to take home
So did Joytown have that life-changing effect on me? Without a doubt! I’m in no position to complain about anything. I don’t ever want to take my life for granted. I want to be more generous with what I have. It would be easy to see only negatives emanating from the children at Joytown. Their disability and perhaps limited future would fill anyone with dismay. Yet the school brags “the only disability is a bad attitude.” The children shared with me the pure joy of being in Joytown. Their joy has given me a new joy and, yes, changed my life.
FACING PAGE: Handing out new school uniforms to the Joytown children; FROM TOP: All smiles with a group of Joytown children; painting the central roundabout in Kenyan colours; the mission team from Australia; gathering for the flag-raising ceremony. Photos: Bruce Harmer
Major Carolyn Harmer is the Territorial Resource Officer in the Communications and Public Relations Department
pipeline 01/2014 27
Feature | Army Archives
Vaudeville or
visionary? Unlocking the Army’s archives
The Salvation Army was well known in its early days for utilising popular music to connect with the masses, a bold and innovative tactic that, says Major DAVID WOODBURY, continues to exert its influence to this day
Typical of the variety of music groups in the early Salvation Army was this music group (below) known as the Eastern Musical Company.
28
Vaudeville: a type of entertainment popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, consisting of a variety of satirical popular songs, dancing and comic acts.
“T
he blast of a cornet heralded the approach of a little group of oddly garbed people,” wrote Barbara Bolton in her book, Booth’s Drum. The occasion she is writing about is the commencement of The Salvation Army in Paddy’s Market, Sydney on 2 December 1882. The “blast of a cornet” she refers to typifies the Army’s use of music in that era; primarily as a means of attracting attention, perhaps more
than for spiritual ministry. In Australia, early musicmaking in The Salvation Army was not without its detractors, and it may have been that some attempts were less than tuneful, possibly even offensive to the ear. However, its utilisation was for effect rather than admiration. In reporting on the activities and music of the early Army, the Sydney Morning Herald noted that “they may not listen to music in a concert hall, but they are permitted, nay enjoined, to sing in the public thoroughfares, so that they can be heard on both sides of the street”. The newspaper went on to say that they “never fear to alter the time of the tune so as to bring out the words they want the people to notice most ... This style of singing is perhaps not entirely in harmony with the injunction to abstain from tobacco because it is ‘a disagreeable infliction on those about them’!” Reporting on a gathering in Centenary Hall, York St, Sydney, to celebrate the Army’s social reform work, the Sydney Morning Herald again commented on the energy of The Salvation Army musicians. “The platform was occupied by a strong band, and other groups of musicians were present. These were told that they might ‘toot’
whenever they could find room, and permission was given them to blow as hard as they liked, so long as they blew no-one’s head off. Judging from the noise that they made, the trumpeters took the fullest advantage of the permission accorded them, and if the result was not decidedly charming from a musical point of view, in all events it demonstrated that the ‘tooters’ were in no wise different in lung power, or at all wary in using it.”
Altering lyrics
The question may well be asked whether there was a vaudevillian characteristic to early Salvation Army music? After all, the exploitation of melodies from the music hall was significant in early Army songs. Many of the early lyrics utilised by the Army were set to music that was familiar to that sector of the population which it sought to reach for God. In London, where gin palaces and music halls abounded, earthy ballads like Champagne Charlie were well known and it required no great leap of musical aptitude to fit an alternate set of words to a wellknown melody. For example, one verse of this song originally read: “For Champagne Charlie is my name.
Army Archives | Feature
“... there can be little doubt that William Booth and his soldiers had found a unique and effective method of communicating the great gospel truths ...”
A cartoon showing William Booth as a vaudeville performer first appeared in St Stephen’s Review on 20 February 1892. It was later produced as a postcard by The Salvation Army’s International Heritage Centre in London.
Champagne drinking is my game. There’s no drink as good as fizz! fizz! fizz! I’ll drink ev’ry drop there is, is, is! All round the town it is the same. By Pop! Pop! Pop! I rose to fame. I’m the idol of the barmaids And Champagne Charlie is my name.” The Salvation Army adapted this verse to read: “Bless his name, he sets me free, Bless his name, he sets me free, O the blood, the precious blood, I am trusting in the cleansing flood. Bless his name, he sets me free. Bless his name, he sets me free, I know my sins are washed away, And now in Jesus I am free.” The “music hall” tag seemed to have stuck fast to the early Army, even in Australia. An article in the Sydney Morning Herald criticising the activities of the Army, deplored the fact that “the awe-inspiring psalm of our youth is changed to music-hall melody whistled about
the streets, and the sublime image of religion is dressed up as merryandrew”. While their music offended some of the population, there can be little doubt that William Booth and his soldiers had found a unique and effective method of communicating the great gospel truths through tunes that were familiar to many of the unsaved.
Effective ministry
Although the Sydney press had been somewhat scathing regarding early Salvation Army musicmaking, it soon became obvious that the development of the Army’s music was substantial and effective. During a demonstration by The Salvation Army in 1891, it was reported that, “there were several bands on the line, and each rendered music in turn”. Salvation Army music and music groups continued to develop at an accelerating rate, often stimulated by initiatives from headquarters such as travelling
groups like the guards and biorama bands and singers. While there may have been a sense of vaudeville in early Salvation Army music it soon evolved to become a more sophisticated enterprise, evolving to achieve a distinctive look and sound that was to dominate the Army’s music. By the early part of the 20th century, many corps throughout Australia featured large brass bands and songster brigades, with such groups reaching their high point in the latter part of that century. It remains, however, that early Salvationists were quick to utilise any means that would attract people to the gospel and bring souls into the Kingdom. From these earthy beginnings, a unique and effective style of gospel music evolved. Whether this distinctive musical flavour will continue to define the future Salvation Army is a question to which only time will reveal the answer.
Major David Woodbury is Pipeline’s founding editor
pipeline 01/2014 29
30
Faces ... each with a story! Who? What? Where? I am intrigued and inspired by the people I meet in my role as photographer for Pipeline, Creative Ministry and Women In Touch. The privilege of spending a little time with so many people, shapes my life as I share in a small part of their journey. I see joy, pain, laughter, graciousness in trials, strength in adversity ... struggles. I see life just as it is. Still, I see so much beauty in each face I photograph. Each has a story. Their story. I am thankful to capture a small part of it, as shown in this small selection of photos I have taken over the past 12 months.
Pipeline photographer Shairon Paterson
pipeline 01/2014 31
WHAT WOULD JESUS VIEW? WITH PIPELINE CULTURE WRITER MARK HADLEY
Saving Mr. Banks RATING: PG RELEASE DATE: 9 January
H Mark Hadley is Pipeline’s culture writer
32
ollywood knows the shortest shortcut to a box office success is a trip to the bookshop. Since its earliest days it has mined the pages of successful authors for their celebrity appeal and readymade audiences. The latest incarnation of this age-old technique has been Disney’s seemingly bottomless interest in everything Marvel Comics has ever managed to print. But the method is not without its dangers. In 1924, director Erich von Stroheim’s literal adaptation of the acclaimed novel McTeague ran for over nine hours. When the producers finally managed to cut it down to two hours the result was so incoherent that it did more to empty cinemas than fill them. The lesson? If you’re going to successfully move from one medium to another you need to be armed with a wise red pen. Saving Mr. Banks, a favourite for 2013’s Best Film, is dedicated to making that very point. Saving Mr. Banks is the story of the struggle between Walt Disney and Pamela Traverse to bring her iconic nanny Mary Poppins to the big screen. Tom Hanks provides a folksy Disney for film’s
first portrayal of this legendary children’s entertainer. But the story is dominated by the fractious yet sympathetic “Mrs Traverse!” created by Emma Thompson. The author emerges as a prim and proper curmudgeon who is determined not to let a moneymaking cartoonist ruin her creation. There’s more at stake than artistic licence. Delving into her Australian upbringing, the audience realises that her book is built on the bones of the author’s own sad childhood and her maxims are the hard-won lessons that emerged. Is it any wonder that, in a film that will move you to tears more times than I care to confess, the biggest laughs come from scriptwriters who can’t understand why Mary Poppins would have a problem with animated penguins? Another confession – as a scriptwriter I’m very familiar with pains associated with the adaptation. Some of the brightest and darkest moments of my life have revolved around trying to help creatives jump from one medium to another – artworks to books, books to television ... Authors have often poured so much of their identity and experience into creations that any alteration can feel like a personal attack. I understood completely when Traverse almost wept that Mary Poppins deserved better treatment than what Disney’s writers were giving her. Hanks’ Disney does, too. “I’ve fought the battle from her side,” he says, reflecting on early attempts to buy his famous Mickey. “The mouse is family.” Saving Mr. Banks shows you not only have to get it right for the audience, you have to get it right for the author. The major challenge with translation is that the scriptwriter has to thoroughly understand the key idea the creator is trying to communicate. When you do, you can drop 90 per cent of the text and still end up with a winner – like I Robot or Bladerunner,
for example. But when you don’t understand, Aragorn ends up with a girlfriend. In Saving Mr. Banks misunderstanding the message is the main reason Disney and Traverse can’t agree: Pamela: I won’t have [Mary Poppins] turned into one of your silly cartoons! Walt: Says the woman who sent a flying nanny with a talking umbrella to save the children? Pamela: You think Mary has come to save the children? [Stunned silence] Oh, dear! The film suggests Poppins was actually a reflection of the saviour Traverse’s own alcoholic dad needed, and the novel’s father character Mr Banks was written for him. It’s no wonder that a “spoonful of sugar” didn’t help the medicine go down. The same error is sadly often made when the Bible passes through Hollywood. If you don’t understand the author’s intention, you can’t get the translation right. Scriptwriters have frequently focussed on aspects of God’s character – his wisdom, say, in Bruce Almighty – but failed to faithfully convey his justice. Jesus’ intentions are similarly afflicted ... Jesus Christ Superstar – an innocent pawn; King of Kings – a mystic pacifist; The Davinci Code – a groundbreaking feminist ... all because writers have not listened closely enough to what Jesus actually said about himself, or his father. Possibly the most significant criticism of The Passion Of The Christ was that, for all its disturbing accuracy, it made Jesus’ physical pain the sum of his sufferings. But the Bible is clear that it was God’s turning away from his son that cost him the most, and paid for our salvation. It’s no wonder Christians have reacted so strongly to “Christian” films – as though someone were misrepresenting their family.
Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson play the roles of Walt Disney and Pamela Traverse in the delightful Saving Mr. Banks, a favourite for the best film of 2013. The story centres on Traverse’s battle to bring her character Mary Poppins to the big screen.
pipeline 01/2014 33
START WHERE YOU ARE, USE WHAT YOU HAVE, DO WHAT YOU CAN
SOCIAL JUSTICE
CASEY O'BRIEN shares some fundamental principles of social justice and the importance of every Salvationist being actively involved in its pursuit
M
any of us attended Commissioning in December. As I witnessed 20 new Salvation Army officers being commissioned, I could not help but feel that the privilege was mine to witness these individuals publicly commit to the calling that God has placed on their lives. I was excited to hear through many of their testimonies that not only were they committing to this calling, but that many of them had been faithful to other callings that God had placed on their lives in the past.
Daily restoring the kingdom
Across the world, our organisation is filled with people fulfilling the call that God has placed on their lives. Rarely do these callings look the same from person to person. However, one thing is consistent – the Salvationist has been called to serve society’s most marginalised – to bring about social justice – in whatever role in which God has placed him or her. God is calling us to live a life of holiness right where we are – where he has placed us today. Part of being holy is doing our part to restore the world, piece by piece, to what God intended it to be. That is, to bring about the Kingdom of God on earth. In doing this, issues of social justice – those parts of life which do not belong in the Kingdom of God – become a major concern for us as believers. In order to reach a world that is so badly broken in so many ways, we need people in all stages of life, in all vocations, in all situations. We need soldiers, future officers and officers to be holy in every moment. Whether you are called to be a lawyer, a receptionist, an exercise scientist, a courier, a Salvation Army officer or an information technology specialist – God has a plan for you to use that calling in your ministry as a Salvationist. God has called each and every one of us to be a part of the restoration of the world to what he intended it to be.
Change starts now
In our efforts to be holy, we are required to be salt and light in the world around us (Matthew 5). The paintings of German artist, peace and human rights advocate Kathe Kollwitz, clearly show her belief that “I am in the world to change the world”. We are called to be present, active and aware within the world, no matter which role or in what situation we find ourselves. As former world No.1 tennis player Arthur Ashe said: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can”.
34
Right in this moment, you have been strategically placed by God to bring about his kingdom in your area of influence. You have been placed right where you are in order to respond to injustices as Jesus would have responded. By living holy lives in the situation in which God has placed us, we grow in our experience and understanding of him. At times, such growth may see us being called by God to leave our current situation and serve him in another way. Praise God for this. Praise God that he is molding us and shaping us in our current situation for even greater things ahead. General Bramwell Booth once wrote: “We are beginning a New Year; shall we not make it a year of desperate, determined seeking for God? And whether we write, or cook, or serve, or suffer, or work underground, or fly, or sail on the seas; whether we eat or drink, or whatsoever we do, in that very thing, seek after him. Be resolved that we
“Right in this moment, you have been strategically placed by God to bring about his kingdom in your area of influence.” will taste and see, in our own everyday experience, that he is to be found by those who seek him, that he is faithful as promised!” In this New Year, let us corporately pray the words from All That I Am: All that I am, all I can be, All that I have, all that is me, Accept and use, Lord, as you would choose, Lord, Right now today. Take every passion; Every skill, Take all my dreams and bend them to your will My all I give, Lord; For You I’ll live, Lord, Come what may.”
Casey O’Brien is the Territorial Social Justice Co-ordinator
FrFrom o m t the h e ccoalface oalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
Commissioner oversees Indian retirement service
C
ommissioner James Condon recently visited the India Northern Territory to conduct the retirement of Commissioners Kashinath and Kusum Lahase. The Lahases were commissioned as Salvation Army officers on 22 April 1972 and have served in three of the Indian territories throughout their years of service. The retirement meeting, held on Sunday 13 November, was held at Batala School, Punjab, with 3000 Salvationists and friends in attendance. Commissioner Condon presented the retirement certificates to Commissioners Lahase on behalf of General André Cox. “It was a real privilege to be able to travel to India for this special occasion and meet so many dedicated officers and soldiers,” Commissioner Condon said. Commissioner Condon also conducted the dedication of the grandson of the territorial leaders. During his visit to the India
Northern Territory, Commissioner Condon opened a Prayer Hall at Rania and Pakho Ke Tehli Sahib Corps, dedicated a Divisional Headquarters at Mukerian and opened an officers’ quarters at Rania and Pakho Ke Tehli Sahib. The Australia Eastern Territory had contributed to the funding for these new properties as Northern India territory is one of the Australian territory’s Partners in Mission.
ABOVE: Commissioners Kashinath and Kusum Lahase hold their retirement certificates after the service conducted by Commissioner James Condon. RIGHT: Commissioner James Condon stands by a plaque on the wall of the divisional headquarters in Mukerian after officially dedicating the building.
Government ends Army’s asylum contract By ESTHER PINN
T
he Department of Immigration and Border Protection has informed The Salvation Army its contract supporting adult asylum seekers at the Manus Island and Nauru Offshore Processing Centres will not be extended beyond February 2014. Since September 2012, The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory’s Humanitarian Mission Services has been caring for asylum seekers, offering physical, emotional and spiritual support. “At a physical level, we have provide educational and English classes, recreational activities and access to computer rooms and gym activities,” Humanitarian Mission Services Chief Executive Officer Sharon Callister told Pipeline. “The Salvation Army has also
organised cultural events, outings, excursions and sporting events. Emotionally, we have offered psychological and general counselling services. If someone in our care displays need for greater help, we recommend them to the medical services professional available. “Spiritually, we offer pastoral care for all transferees, regardless of their faith or religious beliefs. We also provide religious resources and texts – across all religions – to the transferees.” Ms Callister said The Salvation Army’s involvement had made a positive difference in lives of detainees. “We have numerous examples of asylum seekers providing feedback, writing us letters and giving us posters to show their appreciation for the mission we are carrying out in his name [referring to Jesus] there. “Two Iranian men who had previously
been in our care at Manus Island approached one of our (Salvation Army) centres in Victoria. “They spoke overwhelmingly in favour of The Salvation Army and the difference we made in their lives during their time on Manus Island. This is just one small example of the impact of the work of The Salvation Army staff.” Territorial Commander Commissioner James Condon said he was proud of the efforts of The Salvation Army staff at the Offshore Processing Centres. He asked Salvationists to pray for employees who will lose their jobs due to the contract ending. The Commissioner also encouraged Salvationists throughout the territory to pray for the asylum seekers who remained at the Offshore Processing Centres, the Australia Government and those who would assist after The Salvation Army’s departure.
pipeline 01/2014 35
From the coalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
General Burrows’ life honoured in new book The People’s General
T
he Salvation Army’s world leader, General André Cox, assisted with the launch of a book, The People’s General, subtitled “A tribute to General Eva Burrows”, on 29 November in Melbourne. General Burrows, an Australian, was international leader of The Salvation Army from 1986 to 1993 and now resides, in retirement, in Melbourne. Apart from her service in Australia, she had appointments in England, Scotland, Sri Lanka and, for 17 years, in Africa. The book was released to mark the 20th year since the General’s retirement from active service and includes more than 200 photos from her life as well as a previously unpublished 60,000-word interview. “The interview was filmed over three days by the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia for a website called Australian Biography that features the stories of prominent Australians. We obtained permission to edit the original
General André Cox (left) presented General Eva Burrows (Ret.) with a copy of The People’s General, a book about her years as the former world leader of The Salvation Army.
transcript of the interview and it is the most intimate and insightful interview with General Burrows ever completed,” said The Salvation Army’s National Editor-In-Chief, Captain Mal Davies, who launched the book. Many of the book’s photographs were previously unpublished and from General
Burrows’ private collection. After sharing his admiration for General Burrows, General Cox then presented her a copy of the book to a rousing ovation from the congregation. The People’s General can be ordered from Salvationist Supplies in Sydney (02 92669511) for $35.
Salvos Stores offer great finds like one-off vintage pieces and incredible fabrics and it’s satisfying to know that every purchase helps your community by providing;
Meals for the hungry
Beds for the homeless
Assistance in finding employment
Refuge to victims of abuse
Visit www.salvos.org.au/stores for more information or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)
36
FrFrom o m t the h e ccoalface oalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
Detention centre ministry fires passion in Hwan-Ki By ANNE HALLIDAY
S
T
he first time that Hwan-Ki Kim stepped foot inside Villawood Detention Centre more than a decade ago, he had no idea it would birth a new ministry passion in him. “I originally started going because some members of my congregation (Belmore Corps) ended up at the centre for visa problems,” he said. “I had no idea I would still be doing this. I saw people there who needed someone to support them.” Primarily, Villawood is a detention centre for those whose visa has expired or been cancelled due to a breach of visa conditions. Each Monday, Hwan-Ki, along with a team of volunteers from Belmore Corps, share lunch with Korean-speaking detainees at the centre. In addition, they provide counselling and a Bible study. From time to time, a solicitor in the corps helps with legal matters. They minister to people who struggle to find hope in their situation. “The main things I see are depression and anger,” Hwan-Ki says. “They don’t know how long it will take. They don’t know their future. But their physical situation opens the way for a message of Jesus. “These people find it hard to trust anyone, but over time I develop trust with them and when I see that, then I can share Jesus with them.” One of those was a Mr Soo il Kim, now a regular attendee at Belmore Corps. “He had come from North Korea on a fake visa, but was captured. He was detained at Villawood for two years and eight months. “At first he was reluctant to open his
Social inclusion program honours Bundy graduates
Soo il Kim, left, is one of the Villawood detainees that through the ministry of Hwan-Ki and the Belmore Corps, has found faith in Jesus.
heart to me. But one of the other detainees was very helpful and would encourage him to trust me. Eventually, he received Jesus as his Saviour. After that he could open his heart to others and every night he prayed to God with other detainees.” A few months ago, Soo il Kim was granted a Bridging Visa. “He’s so appreciative of what so many people have done and is involved in many of the corps activities.” Over the years Hwan-Ki has ministered to many detainees, and his greatest joy is always to see them come to faith in Jesus. “It is wonderful to see their joy when they get that visa that seemed impossible. But from my perspective it’s a golden pond.When they come out with the gospel, they are a missionary wherever they go.”
tudents from The Salvation Army’s Social Inclusion Program in Bundaberg were driven in stretch limousines, complete with a police escort, to their graduation ceremony recently. The students, aged between 15-17 and each with a disability, were offered places in the program through the Army’s Tom Quinn Community Centre in Bundaberg. It was delivered through a collaborative approach between the community centre and the Army’s Lifestyle Support Service, a disability program based in Brisbane, that provided the funding. The target number of participants was 25, however due to an overwhelming demand 45 participants were enrolled in the program. They were taught work skills and readiness as well as social expectation and opportunities for social friendship. Participants had two days per week of training/support during school terms, with some vacation activities also organised. The Social Inclusion Program enabled participants to obtain a Certificate 1 in hospitality, conservation and land management or furnishing. Students from Bundaberg Special School were also able to attend the course throughout the year, allowing them to achieve a Certificate 1 in either furnishing or hospitality.
pipeline 01/2014 37
From the coalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
SAGALA milestone marked at Emerald T
he first anniversary of SAGALA activities commencing at Emerald Corps was celebrated with a special weekend of events on 7-8 December. Majors Glenn and Lynn Whittaker were special guests for the weekend at The Salvation Army’s Emerald and Blackwater corps, with 26 young people combining to take part on the Saturday and Sunday. During the Sunday morning worship service, three junior soldier awards were presented, two new SAGALA members were enrolled and award badges were given to all SAGALA members. Emerald Corps Officers Captains Gaye and Richard Day and Blackwater Corps Officer, Lieutenant Karen Jackson, with the SAGALA group.
Five more mining sisters graduate
The new graduates Lorellee Pickering, Amanda Conlon, Patricia Shepherd, Anastasia Warren and Michelle Niki.
S
isters in Mining, The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus initiative, in partnership with Thiess, has seen five Indigenous women graduate as trainee haul truck operators at Central Queensland’s Lake Vermont Coal Mine. The women also passed a pre-employment training schedule and began work for Thiess, as its newest trainees, at the mine. “This program has been designed to launch the careers of the women in the mining industry and we hope they will be an example to others,” said Colin Mulligan, Thiess Project Manager. The graduation in November follows that of 10 Indigenous women from Rockhampton and the Blackwater region who graduated from the “Oothungs Sisters in Mining” program last June. Westfarmers Curragh was also instrumental in this particular partnership and employed four of the women. Six joined the Thiess team. Thiess was impressed with the success of the Sisters in Mining program and so, when the need arose for further staff in the Vermont Coal Mine, decided to offer five more traineeships to Indigenous women. “Support from organisations like Thiess on programs like this is fantastic, and we are looking forward to see how these talented, motivated graduates progress from here,” said Kirrilee Trist, National Marketing, Media and Communications Manager at The Salvation Army Employment Plus. – Simone Worthing
38
FrFrom o m t the h e ccoalface oalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
Grandparents honoured at Campbelltown play date
S
ixty people recently gathered at the Campbelltown Corps weekly Play Date group for a special celebration morning. Entitled “Grandparents Day”, it was all about celebrating grandparents and older people connected to the Play Date community. Children as young as two months old and adults up to 80 years old came together to enjoy the regular activities of free play, music time and lots of chatter and laughter. After music time, in lieu of the regular Bible story time, Play Date leader Ayly Girling talked to the group about God’s family; that whether or not we are related in an earthly family, we are all connected to one another through Jesus as part of God’s family. Following this was a special craft activity in which each attendee stamped their handprints onto a tree. It was a beautiful symbol of our connection to one another. From the commencement of the group in February last year, there has been a significant focus on the inter-generational aspects of family and community life. The celebration morning was a reflection of that. Events such as Grandparents Day are opportunities for connection and intentional relationship-building between those within the Play Date group and the church and wider community. The fruits of such days can be seen in the strengthening bonds between the generations within the church community.
Grandparents Day was a highlight on the Campbelltown Corps’ Play Date calendar with generations gathering for a day of fun and activities.
Inaugural meeting of historical society’s Sydney chapter chapter
Dr Helen Cox and Lindsay Cox were special guest speakers at the Territorial Historical Society’s inaugural meeting.
T
he newly formed Sydney Chapter of The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory Historical Society recently held its first meeting, with guest speakers Dr Helen Cox and Lindsay Cox from the Australia Southern Territory. Dr Cox is a Melbourne-based researcher specialising in Salvation Army social work history. Her presentation was based on the “Changing Eras of Salvation Army Social Welfare Participation”. However, it was the Art of Salvation Army Warfare, focusing on the Melbourne Cup, which was intriguing. War Cry covers were shown from 1884 to 1928, all depicting graphic headlines such as “Ruined by the Cup”, “Excitement and Embezzlement”,
“Victims of the Cup”, “Cup Worship” and “If Christ Came to Flemington”. Lindsay Cox is the Australia Southern Territorial Archivist. He shared five family history case studies, the most fascinating of which was titled “In Search of Maud Bell”. Maud was 16 when she boarded the SS Vedic in October 1928 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, to sail to Australia. The Salvation Army found employment for Maud as a domestic on a farm at Wagga Wagga in NSW, before she moved to Melbourne where marriage and a family followed. Imagine the gasps of delight and applause when the last slide came up on the screen to reveal that Maud Bell was the mother of Lindsay Cox! – Joan Pack
pipeline 01/2014 39
From the coalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
Maitland farewells year of celebration
M
aitland Corps has marked the end of a year of 130th anniversary celebrations by burying a time capsule. The year has been marked by several significant moments. Wollongong Corps music sections kicked off the anniversary celebrations during the Harvest Festival in March. Major Shelley Soper (Territorial Candidates Secretary) led a seniors celebration which featured several of the corps’ sections, and Noel Jones, of the Australian Southern Territory, composed a march, Maitland City 130, which has been played regularly during the year. As a thanksgiving offering for God’s blessing on the corps, and especially its musical talents, the band supported Cessnock Corps in its Harvest Festival celebrations, and Raymond Terrace in its 130th anniversary celebrations. The corps anniversary weekend was celebrated in August with a corps dinner during which memories of the corps’ past were shared. The Sunday morning worship took the form of renewal when soldiers – junior and senior – adherents and other Christians were invited to renew their covenant with God through The Salvation Army. The meeting also featured the enrolment of three senior soldiers, acceptance of two adherents and commissioning Chris Beadle as assistant Home League Secretary.
40
LEFT: Marjory Woods cuts the 130th anniversary cake with Henry McDonald. RIGHT: Major Ian Channell with a number of young people renewing their covenants.
The meeting also recognised local officer long-service awards for Corps Sergeant Major Darrell Walz (15 years as Young People’s Sergeant Major and 30 years as Corps Sergeant Major), Home League Secretary Nancy Bower (over 40 years in various roles including Home League Secretary, Primary Sergeant and Corps Secretary at Cessnock), bandmaster Warren Walz (30 years), and bandsmen Fred Bragg (60 years) and Bert Cordner (50 years). During the year, 10 monthly slideshows were shown. These informative, engaging and humorous presentations included historical photos, animated cartoons and quotes, set to
music. Each covered a 13-year period of The Salvation Army’s ministry and service in the Maitland community and provided an entertaining overview of significant moments in the corps’ history. The Salvation Army started in Maitland on 8 September 1883 under the leadership of Major Sutherland and Captain John Veitch. In time, two corps would serve the community – East Maitland and West Maitland. After 120 years East Maitland Corps was closed and combined with West Maitland. It has now been relocated from the centre of Maitland to Rutherford and renamed Maitland City Corps. – Major Ian Channell
FrFrom o m t the h e ccoalface oalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
ENROLMENTS
NEWCASTLE WORSHIP & COMMUNITY CENTRE GOSFORD
C
orps officers Captains Adam and Megan Couchman have enrolled James Matthews and Jill Fletcher as senior soldiers. On the occasion of their enrolment, James shared how he loves being a part of The Salvation Army and couldn’t wait to become a soldier. Jill shared how the decision had been somewhat scary for her, but she knew this was what God wanted. Captain Adam stressed the importance of soldiership being active discipleship and appointed the new soldiers to a ministry in the corps that they both love – street ministry. “As soldiers, they both love the opportunities that arise to share their faith with others,” he said. Proud parents Captains Couchman also enrolled their daughter, Brielle Couchman, as a junior soldier on 24 November. Brielle, already an active member of the worship team, declared her Junior Soldier Promise with the congregation and was supported by her “Big Bud”, Talitha Haggar. “Brielle loves God and couldn’t wait to be enrolled as a soldier, happily committing herself to the promise and openly sharing her faith in Jesus Christ,” said Captain Adam. Immediately after Brielle’s enrolment, all junior soldiers were invited to renew their promises.
New junior soldier, Brielle Couchman, reads her Junior Soldier Promise with the congregation.
C
orps officer Captain Sharon Allen has accepted Pat Coombes as an adherent. “Pat has been coming to Home League for many years and has now taken this extra step of commitment,” said Captain Sharon. “We praise God!” (From left): Captain Sharon Allen, Chaplain Bob Evans, Pat Coombes and Corps Sergeant Major Les Holland.
GREATER LIVERPOOL
C
orps officers Majors Belinda and Lynden Spicer have enrolled two new senior soldiers – Daniel and Sophie Copeman. “Sophie has a great story of transformation, and Daniel of transformation and freedom from addiction,” said Major Belinda Spicer. “We have been doing life with Daniel for a long time, since he was part of the Macquarie Park Estate, and it’s been amazing to see him come from a long-time addiction and life of crime to where he is today – married, with a young family, and enrolled as a soldier!” Both Daniel and Sophie are active in ministry, both in the Greater Liverpool Corps, and in the corps plant at Warwick Farm – “Church in the Market”. “Sophie is a first generation Salvationist and Daniel a second generation,” explained Major Belinda. “I enrolled Daniel’s mum, Anne Copeman, 17 years ago, when we were at Ryde Corps, and it was a beautiful surprise when she reminded me about this!”
Daniel and Sophie Copeman sign their Articles of War certificates after being enrolled as senior soldiers.
GOD’S SPORTS ARENA
M
ission leader Bill Hunter has enrolled Sherene Staines as a senior soldier, and accepted Tony Kerridge as an adherent, at a meeting at God’s Sports Arena. Major Mark Campbell, South Queensland Divisional Commander, also re-installed Phil Staines as a Salvation Army officer. Sherene and her husband, now Captain Phil, are both actively involved in helping lead God’s Sports Arena in Brisbane. Sherene also serves as South Queensland Divisional Program Co-ordinator, and Captain Phil as Divisional Missions Champion and Internship Co-ordinator. “Tony has an amazing story of recovery,” says Bill. “He now plays guitar in our singing, leads our encouragement section and is pivotal in our prayer time. He runs a boot camp for all those interested, and is one of the reasons our mission is doing so well.” Bill Hunter enrols Sherene Staines as a senior soldier. Sherene and husband Phil, who has been re-installed as an officer.
pipeline 01/2014 41
From the coalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Greece celebrates first visit by a General
G
eneral André Cox declared that he was highly conscious of following in the footsteps of the apostle Paul as he arrived in Thessaloniki, together with Commissioner Silvia Cox (World President of Women’s Ministries), for the first official visit to Greece by a General in office. The General and Commissioner Cox attended a number of events during their visit to the newly instituted Thessaloniki Corps. Following the General’s Bible message at the Sunday holiness meeting, which reminded the congregation that the Christmas story “is all about God wanting to be in relationship with us”, the mercy seat was lined with people coming to pray, evidencing a desire to grow in faith and spiritual maturity. The response suggests that the new premises might soon be too small for the corps, or that multiple meetings may be required – as suggested by Corps Officers Lieutenants Neofytos and Anastasia Totsios. The very presence of The Salvation Army in Greece is an answer to persistent prayer. It is the ongoing prayer of many people that O Stratos Tis Sotirias (The Salvation Army) will go from strength to strength in both Thessaloniki and Athens.
General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox (centre) with officers and soldiers of The Salvation Army in Greece at the new Thessaloniki Corps in Greece.
Typhoon recovery continues
T
he Salvation Army continues to meet the desperate need of Filipino people in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan. The Army’s emergency response teams have distributed around 273,315 meals since the devastating storm struck in early November, claiming almost 6000 lives. They have also employed community members to assist with cooking, cleaning and shopping. The Army’s medical team continues to treat hundreds of people and, at the request of the Philippine Ministry of Health, has commenced a vaccination program. The Salvation Army is already reviewing recovery projects such as roofing and provision of vegetable seeds, in the first step in what will be a long-
T
Colonel Wayne and Robyn Maxwell with The Salvation Army’s emergency bus.
term operation for the Army and partner agencies as they work together to help rebuild the islands.
General pays tribute to Mandela
G
eneral André Cox, the world leader of The Salvation Army, has paid tribute to Nelson Mandela in a letter to the family of the former South African president. “So many have already spoken eloquently or written lucidly,” wrote the General. “I would simply wish to salute a great man – one whose character was
42
Army releases new statement on corruption
nourished by hope, expressed through forgiveness, and testified to through reconciliation.” The General and Commissioner Silvia Cox spent four years as leaders of The Salvation Army’s Southern Africa Territory. The General’s letter can be seen in full at flic.kr/p/i7Qmzd
he Salvation Army has used the United Nations-designated International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December to launch its International Positional Statement on Corruption. The new statement starts with the following summary: “The Salvation Army strongly condemns corruption in its entirety. The Salvation Army is aware of and abhors the suffering that individuals, groups and nations endure because of corrupt behaviour by people in positions of power and those entrusted with the management of public and private resources. It accepts responsibility to work towards the eradication of corruption whether individual, organisational or institutional, resulting in a more equitable environment for all concerned. The Salvation Army is committed in addition to prevent, identify and eliminate internal corruption.” To see the statement in full, go to: salvationarmy.org/ihq/ipscorruption
FrFrom o m t the h e ccoalface oalface L O C A L A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L N E W S
about people Appointments
Effective 16 December: Major Colin Hopper, Resources Consultant, Territory Mission and Resource Team. Effective 9 January: Captain Tuesday McCall, Divisional Salvos Caring Coordinator and RSFS Mission Coordinator, ACT and South NSW Division; Captain Phil McCall, South NSW Welfare Coordinator, SAES Assistant Coordinator, ACT and South NSW Division; Captain Evonne Packer, Manager SAILSS (Salvation Army Individual Lifestyle Support Service), South Queensland Division; Envoys Jake and Amanda Clanfield, Mission Leaders, Ulladulla Mission, ACT and South NSW Division. Effective 30 January: Lieutenants Jeff and Terri Goodwin, Representatives, RSDS Gallipoli Barracks, Queensland Effective 1 February: Captains David and Joy Morgan, Corps Officers, Springwood Corps, The Greater West Division; Captain Phil Sharp, Chaplain, Parramatta Children and Family Courts, The Greater West Division; Major Bruce Pratt, Territorial Auditor, Papua New Guinea Territory; Major Gwenda Pratt, Director for Schools and Tokaut Editor, Papua New Guinea Territory.
Resignation
Major Gwen Sharpe, effective 9 January.
Bereaved
Lieut-Colonel Roy Stiles of his sister-in-law, Major Innes Stiles; and Major Bruce Robinson and Major Alwyn Robinson of their Aunt, Edna Voss on 12 November.
Birth
Lieutenants Dominic and Samantha Wallis, a boy, Nathaniel Eric on 22 November.
Milestone birthdays
Brigadier Flo Stockall (ret.) turned 101 on 22 November.
Promoted to glory
Envoy Wilbur Walker on 21 November; Commissioner Vida Bath on 12 December.
Retirement
Majors Gary and Judith Baker on 8 December; Major Phyllis Thorley on 31 December; Majors Frank and Narelle Moxon; Majors Peter and Helen Pearson.
Territorial Promotions
To Captain: Lieutenant Ashley Barkmeyer, Lieutenant Bronwyn Barkmeyer, Lieutenant Richard Day, Lieutenant Stuart Glover, Lieutenant Paula Glover, Lieutenant Jeff Goodwin, Lieutenant Terri Goodwin, Lieutenant Karen Keddie, Lieutenant Darren Kingston, Lieutenant Karyn Kingston, Lieutenant Matthew Moore, Lieutenant Christelle Pearson, Lieutenant Narelle Unicomb, Lieutenant Ben Wakpi, Lieutenant Daisy Wakpi. To Major: Captain Roslyn Brooks, Captain Sandy Hogg, Captain
Andrew Humphreys, Captain Alan Keane, Captain Annette Keane, Captain Dianne Lawson, Captain Russell Lawson, Captain Lenore Pack, Captain Greg Saunders, Captain Karen Saunders, Captain Tracey Schutz.
time to pray 29 December – January 4
Gosford Corps, Hawkesbury City Corps, Shellharbour Corps, Weeroona Village Aged Care Centre, all NSW; Capricorn Region Corps, Ayr Corps, both Qld; New Year’s Day (1).
5-11 January
Office of the Territorial Commander, Aged Care Plus, both THQ; ACT and South NSW Divisional Headquarters, ACT and South NSW Division Chaplains, both ACT; Albury Corps, Armidale Corps, both NSW; Summer Carnival – Tri-territorial Youth Congress, Melbourne (6-10); Annual Change of Appointments (9).
12-18 January
Office of the Chief Secretary, THQ; Atherton Tablelands Corps, Ayr Corps, both Qld; Auburn Corps, Ballina Corps, Bankstown Corps, all NSW.
19-25 January
Barraba Corps, Bathurst Corps, Batemans Bay Corps, Bega Corps, all NSW; Bayside Community Church, Beenleigh Corps, both Qld; Belconnen Corps, ACT.
26 January – 1 February
Majors Peter and Gail While, Mozambique Territory; Belmore Corps, Bethany Residential Aged Care, Bingara Corps, Blacktown City Corps, all NSW; Bethesda Residential Aged Care, Blackwater Corps, both Qld; Australia Day (26); Entry of the Messengers of Light session of cadets (28); Sydney Staff Songsters repertoire weekend (31 Jan-2 Feb).
2-8 February
Blue Mountains Recovery Services Centre (Hadleigh Lodge), Bonnells Bay Corps, both NSW; Booth College, THQ, Bowen Corps, Brisbane City Temple Corps, Brisbane Central Community Welfare Centre, all Qld; Territorial Social Forum (4-6).
engagement calendar Colonels Richard (Chief Secretary) and Janet Munn Wollongong: Mon 13-Thu 16 Jan –Sydney East and Illawarra Officers Fellowship Canberra: Thu 23 Jan – Meeting with National Secretary and Chief Secretary AUS.
PTG REPORTS Please email Promoted To Glory reports and, if possible, a photograph to Pipeline at eastern.editorial@aue.salvationarmy.org. Please limit reports to about 400 words.
pipeline 01/2014 43
ONLINE
SUBSCRIBE NOW! Want to be notified when the latest issue of Pipeline magazine is available online? Just go to our web address www.pipelineonline.org and enter your email address where directed. Each month you will be automatically notified by email when a new issue of the magazine has been uploaded for viewing. It’s as simple as that!