Revive (April 2011)

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AP RI L- JU NE 2011

ALONE

WITH GOD PRAYER RETREATS

A LIFE OF

FULNESS TEEN RESOURCE

DORCUS BEADS

DEALING WITH

COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

BULLYING

life

A LEADER’S

Eq UIPPI N G

WOmE N

fOR

m IN ISTRY

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release

HALf THE SkY

SAVED!

GOD ON MUTE

Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide

The Salvos’ guide to the good life by­Dawn­Volz

Engaging the Silence of Unanswered Prayer

www.salvationarmy.org.au/supplies

by­Pete­Greig

A­guidebook­for­the­good­life?­Is­this possible?­This­is­a­fresh­approach­to simplifying­life­–­one­‘do-able’­hint­at­a time.­With­42­very­short­chapters­on topics­such­as­saving­money,­saving your­family,­saving­the­earth,­saving your­soul­– an­enjoyable­read­that motivates­the­reader­to­try­just­one thing­–­then­another,­and­another.­

www.amazon.com

by­Nicholas­D­Kristof­and­ Sheryl­Wudunn www.amazon.com www.halftheskymovement.org This­book­takes­the­reader­on­a­journey­to meet­extraordinary­women­who­believe­that the­liberation­of­women­could­lead­to­the solution­of­many­of­the­world’s­problems.­A Chinese­proverb­says­that­‘women­hold­up half­the­sky’­and­the­book­shows­how­women can­and­do­make­a­difference­in­bringing positive­change­to­cruel­and­inhumane practices,­from­sex­slavery­to­terrorism.­ More­than­that,­this­book­is­a­challenge­ and­a­call­to­the­reader­to­go­and­ do­something!

One­of­the­founders­of­the­24-7 Prayer­movement,­Pete­combines a­biblical,­theological­and­commonsense­analysis­of­why­some answers­to­prayer­seem­delayed, along­with­moving­testimonies­of answered­prayer­and­at­times, painful­disappointment.­At­the­end of­the­book­his­analysis­is­offered in­a­helpful­systematic­layout.

VOICES fROM HAITI VAULT by­Major­Allen­Satterlee www.amazon.com or from The Salvation Army Supplies and Purchasing, USA Southern Territory

LOVE AS A WAY Of LIfE by­Gary­Chapman www.amazon.com Author­and­marriage­counsellor­Gary­Chapman describes­seven­traits­for­loving­relationships: kindness,­patience,­forgiveness,­courtesy, humility,­generosity­and­honesty.­Each­chapter discusses­one­trait­and­is­illustrated­through stories­of­those­who­have­put­them­into practise.­Chapters­suggests­activities­to­apply these­traits­to­the­reader’s­own­life.­An­easy­to understand­and­helpful­book.

2 Revive

The­2010­earthquake­that­devastated Haiti­resulted­in­a­massive humanitarian­response­by­the­world.

The­Salvation­Army,­active­in­Haiti since­1950,­was­immediately­on­the scene,­bringing­practical­assistance and­spiritual­support.­­This­large­book contains­not­only­photos­of­the response­to­the­tragedy­but­also historical­documents­relating­to­Haiti’s history­and­Haitian­slavery.­It­helps­the reader­in­understanding­the­country’s past,­shows­its­present­situation,­and leads­to­hope­for­its­future.

IN MY DREAMS I DANCE by­Anne­Wafula­Strike www.amazon.com At­the­age­of­two­years­Anne became­disabled­by­polio.­Yet­this amazing­woman­attended­The Salvation­Army’s­Joytown­School­in Kenya­and­went­on­to­earn­her degree­in­education.­Her­story,­told in­Anne’s­own­words,­is­one­of courage­and­perseverance,­leading her­to­prepare­to­participate­in­the 2012­Paralympic­Games­in London.

19 FEATURES 05 Alone­with­God­– Prayer­Retreats MAIN FEATURE

20 Dorcus­Beads SOCIAL ISSUE

REAL LIFE

20 05

15 From­Moldova­with­love

revive@salvationarmy.org

APRIL-JUNE 2011

MY STORY

19 Her­name­is­Tabitha SPOTLIGHT ON SERVICE

RESOURCES 11 Dealing­with­bullying CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

12 Widening­the­borders BOOK CLUBS

14 Remember­who­you­are TEEN MINISTRY

COLUmNS 09 A­leader’s­life LEADERSHIP

17 Trouble­to­triumph SPIRITUAL LIFE

22 Cholesterol

IN EvERY ISSUE 04 The­Editor’s­page 10 News 18 The­Prayer­House 23 Coming­event s / iQuote

23 15

HEALTH

Front­cover:­Photo­of­Marion­Ndeta­by­Colonel­Steven­Howard Back­cover:­Mark­16:2­in­Swahili­and­English,­illustration­by­Berni­Georges

A RESOURCE MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN IN MINISTRY AND MISSION Publisher: Commissioner­Sue­Swanson,­World­President­of­Women’s­Ministries Communications Secretary, Editor-in-Chief, Literary Secretary, IHQ: Lieut-Colonel­Laurie­Robertson­ Editor: Lieut-Colonel­Carolynne­Chung­ Designer: Berni­Georges ©­Linda­Bond,­General­of­The­Salvation­Army,­2011 Founders of The Salvation Army: William­and­Catherine­Booth Printed­in­the­UK­by­Lamport­Gilbert­Printers­Ltd

THE SALvATION ARmY International­Headquarters 101­Queen­Victoria­Street London­EC4V­4EH United­Kingdom

Articles­on­any­subject­of­ interest­to­women­in­ministry­ are­welcomed­by­the­editor.­ To­send­an­article,­write­to revive@salvationarmy.org Subscription­details­at www.salvationarmy.org/revive

CONTACT­EMAIL­ADDRESS: revive@salvationarmy.org

Revive 3

reactivate

add, stir, bake Lieut-Colonel Carolynne Chung

I

EDITOR

love the first day of each month. That is when the next issue That baking soda experience happened several decades ago, yet of my favourite food magazine goes on sale. It is the every time I bake I check the ingredient list over and over again opportunity to get new ideas for meals, something my and remember that flat cake. husband looks forward to! Not that I prepare every recipe I Like the photos of a beautiful cake in my magazine, we can see – many are too complicated. But I enjoy the photos – so perfect, have plans and ideas of how life will be. But life does not always so tasty-looking. turn out like we imagine. We may misread the directions to life. We I was taught as a beginner cook years ago to measure all the may be trying to make life fit our plans rather than trust in God’s recipe ingredients first to make sure everything plans. We may not like some of the ingredients in was to hand. Trying to make a recipe without ‘LIFE DOES NOT our life (ill health, broken relationships, family the required ingredients usually ended up as a challenges, job or financial setbacks etc).

ALWAYS TURN OUT disaster!

Centuries ago, the Old Testament prophet The best lesson I learned about cooking Jeremiah wrote that God had the recipe for life.

LIKE WE IMAGINE’ was the result of not following the recipe. I ‘“For I know the plans I have for you”, declares was 13 years of age (this was a very, very long time ago!) and the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give working on my cooking badge for Girl Guides. Although it would you hope and a future”’ (29:11, New International Version). It is have been easier to purchase a cake mix from the supermarket the God’s recipe, and not our own idea of life, that is important. He requirements were to bake a cake from scratch. I had decided to supplies the ingredients; we can trust his plan for our lives. God make my father’s favourite cake – maple walnut. reminds us to ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on Each ingredient was carefully measured and ready to add as your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he needed. The oven was pre-heated, walnuts chopped, batter will make your paths straight’ (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV). prepared, cake pans lined and greased. With the cake finally in the Writers of the articles in this issue of Revive each trust God’s oven I relaxed and tried to wait patiently until the oven timer recipe and work with the ingredients they have. Sometimes the indicated the cake was done. instructions God gives lead us to times of silence, as on a silent Removing the cake from the oven I discovered that the cake prayer retreat. Sometimes we are led to deal with issues looked more like a flat biscuit instead of a light and moist cake. It with our children, such as bullying or self-esteem. At had not risen! Perhaps, I thought (hopefully), it would taste better times we can take the ingredients of hardship and make than it looked. something beautiful, as in Dorcus Beads, or enjoy a Readers of Revive who are more experienced time of refreshment in fellowship in a book club. in baking than I was at that age The apostle Paul encourages us to trust God to (or even than I am today) have work in us, to make our lives beautiful for him. ‘Being probably already guessed confident of this, that he who began a good work in what had happened. Eating you will carry it on to completion until the day of the cake confirmed that there Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 1:6 NIV). Trust God to was a bitter taste from the use the ingredients of our lives to make baking soda I had added something beautiful for him. instead of baking powder! No wonder the cake had not risen at all. It is the baking powder that is the leavening agent, causing the cake to rise.

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awithone God Prayer retreats Mel Cotton

AUSTRALIA SOUTHERN TERRITORY

E

very day we are bombarded by voices coming at us from every direction: family, work, church obligations and the media all jostle for our limited attention. With phone calls, emails and Facebook messages constantly harassing us, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. How can we make space in a busy world to hear the voice that’s the most precious, and often the most easily missed?

Major Lynn Whittaker, Territorial Prayer Ministry Consultant for the Australia Eastern Territory, suggests a silent, or partlysilent, retreat.

‘A retreat should mirror a rhythm of life. There are times of corporate worship, times to play, rest and pray,’ she says.

‘Being on retreat allows you a chance to look at where you are in your journey with God, and to be more aware of your journey and of the loving God with whom you journey,’ she adds. ‘But we’re not just learning or hearing about God, we are experiencing God by learning to spend time in his presence and bringing him into every aspect of our lives. We tend to compartmentalise our lives, but prayer retreats are about the idea of praying continually, bringing God into everything we do.’

Personal Time Retreats can be completely silent or partially silent, with talk allowed during meals. ‘If anything should come up for anyone during the retreat, I’m happy to listen,’ said Major Lynn. ‘Delegates can break silence to

ask questions. If they need someone to talk with, I am available at all times as a listening ear.’

Major Lynn tries to provide an atmosphere where delegates can connect with God, saying that she doesn’t see her role as that of a leader, but of a facilitator. ‘I ask them to ask God to take them where he wants them, and I give them the space to do it.’

One delegate had in mind what she wanted to get out of her first retreat and what she wanted to know from God. ‘However, God had his own plans,’ the major says.

A prayer retreat offers those who attend a chance to explore their own unique way of connecting with God. ‘A retreat experience is essentially an experience of meeting God personally,’ explains Major Lynn. ‘We can spend time in prayer, meditation, reflective writing, art or communing with nature.’

Another delegate commented on ‘how wonderful it was to come and rest with God, to ponder the blank page in the journal, have space with God and not to have to watch the clock and hope time hadn’t run out.’

Common Fears ‘The word “retreat” is bandied about too easily,’ says Major Lynn.

‘These days, every camp and conference is labelled a retreat.

They are different.’

In modern church culture we’re so used to attending conferences and events that are programmed down to the minute, with every bit of spare time filled with Revive 5

reveal

noise and chatter. It’s natural that we would feel apprehensive at the idea of attending an event where the usual programme is replaced largely by silence and solitude. Silence can be difficult for some people, but everyone is encouraged to give it a try.

Major Lynn uses this story by an unknown author to illustrate that some time away from the distractions of everyday life can be just what God’s people need.

Satan Calls Worldwide Convention In his opening address to his evil angels, Satan said, ‘We can’t keep the Christians from going to church. We can’t keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth. We can’t even keep them from forming an intimate, abiding relationship experience in Christ.

‘If they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken.

‘So, let them go to their churches; let them have their conservative lifestyles, but steal their time so they can’t gain that relationship with Jesus Christ. This is what I want you to do, angels. Distract them from gaining hold of their Saviour and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!’

‘How can we do this?’ shouted his angels.

‘Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds,’ he answered. ‘Over-stimulate their minds so they cannot hear that still, small voice. Entice them to play the radio or CD player whenever they drive. Keep the TV, DVD, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their homes and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly. This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ.’

Jesus often spent time alone with God. He went on retreat early in the day (Mark 1:35). He prayed at the end of a long day (Matthew 14:23) and even through the night (Luke 6:12). He often withdrew during busy periods to spend time in prayer (Luke 5:16).

One ‘retreatant’ commented about prayer retreats, ‘We are taken away from our everyday lives and transported to a place where we are given permission to just sit in God’s presence and not make any excuses why we are just sitting! ... To just sit in the amazing presence of God and feel as if we are resting in his arms, safe and secure ... At times I just sat looking into the fire and other times I walked outside in the brisk air looking at God’s creation’.

Ultimately, prayer retreats are about getting in touch with God and giving him time to move. ‘It’s fine-tuning our listening skills to hear God’s voice again,’ says Major Lynn.

6 Revive

a Guide to a

retreat

This is one suggestion Almighty. Feel free to a circumstances and ne

retreat

PRePaRation FoR a

You have drawn aside to spend time with your heavenly Father, the eternal, all-knowing, all-powerful God of the universe.

Don’t rush! Take all the time you need to settle yourself, to set aside all distractions to be able to give all your attention and focus to God, who is eagerly waiting to meet with you.

A suggested time frame for this is 30 minutes.

reflective questions What are the cares, concerns and responsibilities of family, work, and ministry that are pressing in on you at this time? Don’t dwell on them or try to solve them.

Gently leave them with Jesus, knowing that he will keep them safe.

What is happening in your body today? Are you feeling energised, tired, anxious or ill? Become aware of how your body is feeling and then offer yourself to God. What hopes and fears do you have as you come to meet with God? Do you expect great things to happen? Are you afraid that you won’t hear anything?

Are you afraid that God won’t listen to you? Do you feel worthy? Hand these hopes and fears to God.

reveal

apart with the on how to spend time t your own adapt the material to sui eds.

listen How Deep The Father's Love For Us Stuart Townend How deep the Father's love for us, How vast beyond all measure, That He should give His only Son To make a wretch His treasure, How great the pain of searing loss – The Father turns His face away, As wounds which mar the Chosen One Bring many sons to glory.

prayer God who touchest earth with beauty, Make my heart anew; With thy Spirit recreate me Pure and strong and true.

Like the springs and running waters, Make me crystal pure; Like the rocks of towering grandeur, Make me strong and sure.

Mary Susanne Edgar The Songbook of The Salvation Army, No 32

Words by Stuart Townend ©1995 Thankyou Music

reflect Spend some time reflecting on the amazing love and grace of God – that he loved me so much that he sent his Son to die for me so that I may experience life eternal in him.

reflection on the word Many early Christians went on retreat to the desert or other lonely places. They developed series of readings called Lectio Divina. Using the practice of Lectio Divina outlined below read through one of the accounts of the Passion story as recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 26:14-27:61; Mark 14:10-15:47; Luke 22:1-23: 36; John 18:1-19:40). You may want to reflect on just one part of a reading or take several days leading up to Easter.

There are four movements to Lectio Divina.

The following is a simple example: Lectio (Read): On the first reading, simply open yourself to the presence of God. Read the passage slowly and prayerfully, allowing short pauses between sentences. As you read, take in the words and the overall flow of the passage. Then allow a time of silence following the reading – continue to open yourself to the Spirit of God.

Revive 7

reveal Meditatio (Reflect): On the second prayerful reading of the passage, listen for a particular word or a phrase through which God wants to speak to you. You will notice your attention being drawn to something (or if this doesn't happen, just choose a word). Once you have ‘received’ the word or phrase, begin to silently meditate on that. Reflect on why God would highlight this for you today, ask him any questions that come to mind, and note things that seem important as you meditate on what he has given you.

Remember that the focus is on listening to what God has to say to you.

Oratio (Respond): On the third prayerful reading of the passage, listen now for God's invitation, and respond from your heart. The Living God is always inviting us in some way ... to let go of something, or to take up something; to do something or be something … The invitation can take innumerable forms. Following the reading, continue to listen for his invitation and then respond silently or out loud from an honest heart.

Contemplatio (Rest): The focus of the fourth prayerful reading of the passage is to simply rest now in the love that God has for you. Let the words wash over you – there is no further need to reflect or respond – allowing God’s Spirit to draw you close and fill you with his love, grace and peace.

Linger in this place of deep connection for you are being filled and refreshed for your continuing journey.

You are encouraged to take a word, phrase or image with you when it is time to return home, something to which you can

return throughout the day, something that will remind you of the love of God for you, and the special message he had for you.

Taken with permission from www.journeycenter.org

rest

As this time apart comes to an end, sit with God and thank him for his love, his grace, his revelations and for this time to be with him.

When you are ready leave your ‘special place’ and return to the world.

Mel Cotton, Web Manager for Australia Southern Territory, talked with Major Lynn Whittaker about prayer retreats. This article has been adapted from the Australia Eastern Territory publication Women in Touch, December 2010, with additional comments from ‘retreatants’ and information about planning a silent retreat.

Readers are encouraged to go on a journey of prayer.

GLOBAL CALL TO 24-7 PRAYER ‘And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? i tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. however, when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on the earth?’ (Luke 18:7-8 new international version). People from around the world are being called to united, focused intercession – a day-and-night cry for justice.

8 Revive

Major Lynn Whittaker AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY

Prayer toPics FRom ThE SALvATion ARmy inTERnATionAL SociAL JuSTicE commiSSion

APRIL World­Hunger MAY

Global Peace

JUNE

health issues and the un millennium Development Goals

redefine leadership

Marion Ndeta

a leader’s

C

hristians are mandated to shine brightly so people in a believers in Macedonia and Achaia’ (1 Thessalonians 1:5-8 New dark world may find hope. A weary world needs to see International Version). the One who offers shelter and comfort. A tasteless A leader should understand that people do not easily change. society needs the flavouring and preservative qualities Leaders influence those they lead to change their focus, behaviour of Jesus Christ, the salt of the earth. It needs people of influence – or life direction. Those being led will need someone who has Christians. influence over them (leader) to ignite the spark of their will into a In some areas Christian leaders are in danger of losing their flame that, in turn, lights another, and another. saltiness, pursuing numerical success or The leader’s duty is to model desired seeking to make the church look more like a behaviour, which will be a light that can be seen ‘A LEADER SHOULD by all. She will need to say like Job, ‘Till I die, I health club than the Body of Christ.

Our first mentors – leaders of the Early UNDERSTAND THAT will not deny my integrity’ (Job 27:5). Someone Church – did not pursue numerical growth but said that if you have integrity nothing else PEOPLE DO NOT practised obedience, commitment, healthy matters and if you do not have integrity, nothing relationships and faith. Growth was the natural EASILY CHANGE’ else matters. The life of a Christian leader is an epistle to be read by all. The leader should be result.

Leaders must lead in the way of purity: purity of thought, able to say with the apostle Paul: ‘Follow my example, as I follow speech, action and relationships. This purity should be without the example of Christ’ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

What will it take to change this world for the better? It will take hypocrisy, malice or ill will. Let today’s leader model the qualities leaders who believe what Jesus taught and live the way Jesus lived. that enabled the early church to grow.

What am I saying? A Christian leader must be a person of It will take leaders who seek to light the spark of Christ in others integrity in every area of life – in her speech, in her use of time and through example. resources, in her family and ministry relationship. It is only then that such a leader will attract people to what she lives. This is called NEXT ISSUE, A CLOSER LOOK AT ...

MODELLING LEADERSHIP leading through actions.

A leader must model an attractive and supernatural power that meets human needs. The apostle Paul said: ‘Our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for Columnist for 2011 your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy Marion Ndeta given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the KENYA EAST TERRITORY Revive 9

reconnect

news GLOBAL CALL TO 24-7 PRAYER in this prayer ‘event’ prayer from Salvationists and friends around the world has been offered continuously since 1 January 2011. making use of internet and social networking sites such as Facebook and even Twitter, one can learn who is praying at any one time of the day (or night!). check the Global 24-7 Prayer calendar (through www.salvationarmy.org).

Left and below: delegates to ‘Time2BHoly458.ca

TIME TO BE HOLY: CALGARY CANADA AND BERMUDA TERRITORY

A follow-up event to the World youth convention, Time2Bholy.ca took place in January in cold and snowy calgary, canada. A weekend planned for young adults to emphasise that holiness is not a one-off experience but a lifestyle.

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CHILDREN

Captain Amy Reardon

L

ast year an angry father in the uSA boarded the school bus his daughter rides to school every day. There, he proceeded to yell and threaten a group of students and the bus driver.

The man’s daughter was being taunted and slapped on the bus almost daily. video footage showed other children laughing as she suffered repeated bullying. Because she was different, suffering from cerebral palsy, she was an easy target for the bullying children.

The father was arrested and soon made a public apology. other parents may understand, though, what drove him to such desperate action. Parents want to protect their children.

According to the website http://kidshealth.org, bullying is intentional tormenting in physical, verbal or psychological ways. it can range from hitting or shoving, name-calling or threats to extorting money or possessions. Bullying can happen even by phone or by computer.

Why is bullying on the rise?

There are several reasons why bullying is a very real problem for young people. The organisation Growing Leaders (www.growingleaders.com) suggests some: Technology. Bullying can occur on websites – especially social networking sites such as Facebook – and on cell phones, etc, allowing the bullies to act from the privacy and safety of their own homes and at any time. compassion is not taught. video games and television programmes produced for young people can include violent images and action. hardly anything is shocking and children can become immune to the pain and suffering of others. many children and teens can even be uncaring when other people are being hurt.

Early puberty. children’s physical maturity often outpaces emotional maturity.

They can be confused and act in inappropriate ways.

DEALING WITH What causes kids to become bullies?

express how they are getting along socially at school.

5 When our children are being victimised at school, speak to school authorities. Do this calmly, rationally, and – if need be – persistently.

When former bullies were asked why they tormented other children they cited these things: The cool factor. children who bully are seen by their peers as ‘cool’. When What should young people do when bullied? emphasising an apparent difference in someone else, they thought it made them www.surfinthespirit.com suggests look good. the following: To avoid being bullied. They believed = Stand up for yourself with firm (not that if you bully first you avoid becoming a threatening) words (not fists). target yourself. = Don’t fight back. you might be the one it’s easy. if the bullying occurs at school who winds up in trouble. adults may be reluctant to intervene.

Students trying to help those being bullied may fear becoming future victims themselves. Parents of bullies may not intervene for fear their child becomes bullied in turn.

What should adults do?

The website www.growingleaders.com suggests that adults become ‘velvetcovered bricks’. They are to be caring and supportive to their children but completely uncompromising on their principles.

As christian parents, i suggest we do these five things: 1 Teach our children the dignity of all human beings so they will not become bullies.

2 Teach our children their own worth in christ so that if they are bullied it will not lead them to despair.

3 Demonstrate tolerance and love for others, and for our own children.

4 make opportunities for our children to

= make friends and get involved in school.

Finally, as christians, we are urged to remember the words of the apostle Paul: ‘Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone’ (Romans 12:17-18 New International Version).

We must make every effort to handle situations peaceably. Parents and children may be tempted to seek revenge but our hearts are to be filled with the love of christ, even for our enemies. Jesus’ words encourage us, ‘But i tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you’ (matthew 5:44 New International Version). our lives should model his peace.

Captain Amy Reardon USA NATIONAL HEADQUATERS

Revive 11

BOOk CLUBS

T

he pelting rain against my car’s windscreen made visibility difficult. Night had fallen and house numbers were all but invisible. Suddenly a light appeared like a welcoming beacon. Through the open door of the house I could see the warming flames from the fireplace. I had arrived at our first book club gathering.

Although almost five years have passed since that night, I remember the warmth of the fellowship, the relaxed atmosphere and the cup of tea. Away from family and job responsibilities for the evening, we were just a group of women (of all ages) enjoying discussing the book we were reading. What rich memories!

Book clubs have been meeting for many years but may conjure up images of stuffy libraries and long passages and lists of questions. Nowadays you can find book clubs meeting in homes, church rooms, libraries, even the local coffee house – anywhere that is comfortable and quiet enough for a group to meet.

What is a book club? Book clubs are groups of people who meet to discuss a selected book, to compare ideas and impressions. Of course, not only books can be discussed. It is much different to a Bible study. In a book club the group decides what book to discuss and what type of book (fiction, inspirational, social issue, etc).

‘WE BECAME FRIENDS, FINDING CONNECTION AND CARING HEARTS’ Newspapers, magazines (even Revive!) can create meaningful dialogue within a group.

Some book clubs even blog or tweet!

Today people often find it difficult to meet on a regular basis. Creative solutions may be meeting every other week or once a month and then, if everyone has access to the Internet, discussing further via a blog, on email or through a web page set up for the club. The possibilities are endless.

In the first book club I attended, the women were between 18 and 80 years of age. But because we all enjoyed reading we 12 Revive

the borders

BOOk CLUBS Lieut-Colonel Carolynne Chung

met to discuss what we had read. We became friends, finding connection, common ground and caring hearts.

Reading expands your interests and widens the borders of your world. It gives new understanding to topics in the book. There are no exams or tests to fear.

Each book, each discussion, is a new start, an opportunity to stretch and learn without feeling you are in school! You and your group can visit places never dreamed possible – all through the printed page.

Sharing thoughts and ideas increases communication skills – both in speaking and listening.

One book club took place in a corps with two congregations – Spanish and English speaking. The women in the book club were from both congregations, each reading the selected book in their own language. The discussions were in English.

Spanish speakers became more fluent in speaking English. English speakers became more fluent in listening and expressing their ideas in clear, uncomplicated phrases.

Both groups won! Cross-cultural friendships were made and the women continued to learn a new language.

HOW DOES IT WORk? In the beginning it is important to think of answers to the questions ‘Why?’ ‘Who?’ ‘Where?’.

WHY? Book clubs are wonderful opportunities to contact new people. They provide a nonthreatening environment for fellowship to grow and deepen. New learning takes place and new interests are explored when discussing books (or newspapers or magazines, etc) of various types.

WHO? Gather a group of four friends and ask each to bring one friend to a book club. Eight to 12 is the optimum size to ensure everyone has opportunity to participate in the conversation.

WHERE? A home is the ideal place to meet – it invites relaxation and comfort. Other venues can be used as well. The important features are comfort, accessibility and a relaxed atmosphere. That may even mean the local coffee shop!

Food is important to fellowship in any culture. As the book club meets regularly whatever food and snacks are provided should be a shared responsibility among the members. The group can decide whether

These questions refer more to a novel, but may be adapted to other types of writing. = How was the theme (or themes)

developed? = How could you relate (or not

relate) to the characters? = Did the book affect you in a

personal way?

members bring their own selection or bring food purchased from a store. Coffee, tea or juice drinks are a must! Food is not the focus of the meeting but it is important.

When served at the beginning it brings people together and allows time for members to arrive and relax.

WHEN? Pick a convenient time for all members.

Most women are busy and a weekly book club meeting may not be possible. Meeting twice a month often works best, giving time for women to arrange their schedules and make childcare arrangements, where necessary. It is difficult to close a meeting when a much-enjoyed book is being discussed, so decide how long each meeting will last and make every effort to keep to that decision.

Have a designated ‘leader’, whether selecting one for the entire period of one book discussion or on a rotating basis. A leader keeps the group on track, brings the discussion back to the topic if it goes off in a tangent and is responsible for such practical matters as notes or reminders to members before the next meeting. Leaders

may bring information about the book or author to the group. They may share about the historical setting of the book or other interesting facts that aid in understanding.

DO WE NEED RULES? Have members draw up some guidelines.

They prevent misunderstanding and difficult situations within the group. Think through some of the situations that may arise such as childcare, snacks or refreshments, discussion guidelines, such as allowing everyone a chance to speak, interruptions while someone is sharing, etc.

For the first meeting a particular book may be suggested. Thereafter the group may wish to decide the book. It is ideal for each member to have her own copy of the book and preferably in the same edition so that discussion can easily be referred to a particular page and paragraph. However, this may not be feasible. Copies of the book may be borrowed from friends or a library. In some locations bookstores may offer the book at a quantity discount. Book selections make wonderful gifts; members may receive them on birthdays or other occasions.

= What new understanding (if any)

did you gain? = If you were faced with the same

circumstances as characters in the book, how would you have responded? = If you were writing a sequel, what

would happen to the characters? = Would you read the book again? = Has reading this book changed

you in some way? = Has it helped you in your walk of

faith or your understanding of God?

Once in a while it is fun for the group to do something different – meet in a park, visit a museum and explore the time and culture of the book being discussed, have a meal at a restaurant serving food of the culture described in the book. The ideas are endless.

As women of faith we want to develop our minds. Book clubs offer a fun way to learn new ideas, travel the world from our home town and meet new friends. Who knows what adventures lie in store for us when we read!

Revive 13

BOOk CLUBS

DISCUSSION Some books include a study guide. These may be used or questions selected from the list. Alternatively, the leader should prepare some topics to be discussed before each meeting. Book club is not school so not every topic needs to be addressed. General, open-ended questions are a good start and often the group’s interest will focus on certain aspects of the book. Remember that no members should feel pressured to speak or to agree with everyone else.

resources

e n o z l r i G TEENS

remember

wh

‘R

emember who you are, and who you represent.’

I don't know how many times I have heard this sentence – too many to count. Maybe you have heard it once or twice too.

‘Remember who you are, and who you represent.’

Ever since I can remember, my parents have reminded my brother, sister and me of this.

My mother even once ran up the street towards us kids as we were on our way to the bus stop for school, just to tell us again: ‘Remember who you are, and who you represent.’

I always thought it was meant to make me think before I made silly mistakes, or took a situation the wrong way – but as I grew up I realised it means more than that.

More than remembering we are a daughter, a sister or a friend, we need to remember who we are in Christ.

Here are three things to help you get a picture of what this looks like.

You are accepted

We are daughters of Christ. John the apostle wrote, ‘Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God’ (John 1:12 New International Version).

There it is, as plain as day. We have been accepted by Christ and adopted into his family. More than just being accepted, we also have a vital role to play. We are part of the body of Christ. God has accepted us as we are – not who we might be one day or who we wish we were, but who we are right now.

14 Revive

Claire Twivey

e r o yo u a

You are significant

‘HE WANTS YOU TO LIVE LIFE IN ALL ITS FULLNESS’’

You are secure

Being a daughter of Christ guarantees that nothing will keep us from his love. The apostle Paul states, ‘And I am convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow – not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love’ (Romans 8:38 New Living Translation).

God is our refuge and strength, always there to give us a hand. He is above any situation in which we may find ourselves.

We are secure in him.

This part is so important to remember: God has a purpose and plan for your life. He wants you to live life in all its fullness. I remember hearing it said that even if you were the only person on earth he still would have died on the Cross so you can have eternal life with him.

It blows my mind whenever I think about it!

So, remember ...

I am important to God. You are important to God. Take a moment this week to remind yourself of this truth. Think about who you really are.

Once you remember who you are in Christ, you are able to represent him to the world! Don’t ever feel that you are not worthy of this calling! Take it and run with it.

Claire­Twivey AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY

my story

from Moldova with love

I

was born and grew up in Kishinev, the capital city of Moldova, formerly part of the USSR. Under the Soviet regime we looked forward to a bright future with communism as the goal of all nations. We were taught that God did not exist and that we did not need to expect anything from him.

To be a believer at that time was to be an enemy of the nation. You could lose your job, your place in society or even your freedom. Many people, including Christians were persecuted and spent years in prisons and camps. We studied atheism in school and university. We read and

Above: Natasha in Russia; below: Gheorghe Ghimpu (a deputy) replaces the Soviet flag over the Parliament with the national one on 27 April, 1990

Captain Natasha Pismeniuk PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH LOSKUTOVA AND JULIA SHULEANSKAYA

studied books about building a new world using the ideas of Lenin and Karl Marx.

Still, people felt secure because they knew the government provided for them.

One day everything changed. When the Soviet Union collapsed there was no goal to reach, no security, no strong union, just many separate countries. But other good things happened. People had freedom – freedom to believe and to share what they believed. I wonder how God opened the door that had seemed to us absolutely sealed.

When I was a child I didn’t even think about God and, looking back, I might even have laughed at people who were believers.

They were strange and different and I didn’t want to be like them. I finished school and graduated as a nurse. For five years I worked in a children’s hospital with babies and toddlers. It was a good

‘TO BE A BELIEVER AT THAT TIME WAS TO BE AN ENEMY OF THE NATION’

time, even though it was often hard, with shifts of 10-14 hours a day. My job was looking after babies and teaching mothers emergency care.

After perestroika, the movement that led to the end of communist rule in eastern Europe, many people became interested in religion. During this time I started to feel that something was missing in my life – God. Like many others I visited the Eastern Orthodox Church but I usually went only at Christmas and Easter.

In 1994 my mother and sister started to attend The Salvation Army. They kept coming home and telling me how much they enjoyed the meetings. One day I arranged my nursing shifts to be able to attend the home league meeting. I had a great time and decided to go back on Sunday, then to another meeting, and another, and then I couldn’t miss! Now I had found God and he saved me. I was enrolled as a soldier and soon I was helping on one of the Salvation Army canteens and helping with youth activities.

Only months after my first visit to The Salvation Army I felt that God wanted me to take care of people’s spiritual needs.

Revive 15

my story Uk

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Uk

Worship team in moscow

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I was called to become a Salvation Army officer and went to the training college in Moscow. I have served as an officer for almost 14 years now. Before entering the school for officer training, I went to the northern part of Russia as a member of a summer service team. I have travelled to Georgia, Ukraine, Romania, Finland, USA and now the United Kingdom.

Since I became a Christian I have had a lot of good days as well as not so good ones: laughter and new friends, some tears and loss. But I know God has been with me in everything. He has filled my good days with joy and my sad days with his comfort.

He has done and keeps doing miracles in my life. Could I have ever imagined that I would be in London one day? Could I have ever imagined that I would travel in different countries and overseas? I don’t even speak English well enough to keep up a conversation!

Looking back, I never thought I would leave my home city. I was planning my life according to my vision. But Proverbs 16:1

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IA

LD

says ‘People may make plans in their minds, but only the Lord can make them come true’ (New Century Version).

God always had a better plan for my life. He made things become true that I could never have dreamed of. God brought people into my life who showed me a new way of life. He gave me new friends and new experiences. He made my relationship with my family better and brought us closer together even if we live far away from each other. My mother lives in Moldova and my sister is a Salvation Army officer serving with her husband and three children in America.

Some of my appointments in Moldova and Russia were in new areas of service for me, but God provided me with skills and abilities to do them. Does life become easier when you follow God? I wouldn’t say so, but he has taught me to look at everything in a different way. I can trust him in everything and I am sure he will take care of the future. I just need to allow him to do it. ‘Depend on the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed’ (Proverbs 16:3).

I really wonder what God has prepared for me and my loved ones today, tomorrow, a month from today, a year from now. I do

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Clock-wise from top left: Captain Pismeniuk in a field of sunflowers; map of Europe indicating moldova in red; the captain with her sister and family in America; serving refreshments

VA

not know the answer but I know that whatever he has prepared for us is good, not to harm us, but to give us hope and a good future. What a wonderful God we have!

Am I special? For him – yes, for others I am just an ordinary person, with failures and mistakes. I cannot live this life by myself but ‘I can do all things through Christ, because he gives me strength’ (Philippians 4:13). When I am tired he is my strength. I give thanks to God because he is. He never gives up on me and he changes me to a better person. I pray that I can share his love, his peace and his comfort, so others will see him in me and wonder if God can do the same for them.

Captain Natasha Pismeniuk ASSISTANT UNDER SECRETARY FOR EUROPE ZONE, INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

refresh spiritual life

Major Beth Twivey AUSTRALIA EASTERN TERRITORY

Columnist for2011

‘I

have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world’ (John 16:33 New International Version).

Everyone loves a good story. By way of television screen, cinema and DVD, the medium of story-telling may defy our imaginations, with special effects, characters and themes that take us far beyond anything we might have seen before.

We watch these stories with their twists and turns, and then comes the ending. So often it’s an ending we don’t expect. We didn’t see it coming – we anticipated something entirely different.

If we watch the story again, once we know the ending, it makes a huge difference in the way we view the story.

God has not kept the end of our story a secret. Unlike the Hollywood blockbusters that gain our attention, God longs for us to see the big picture. God longs for us to understand the end of the story – that he has conquered and so can we!

Jesus’ final words before going to the Cross set the scene for the end of the story for his disciples. There in the Upper Room Jesus reinforced all he had taught them.

He declared that he was ‘the way and the truth and the life (John 14:6). He promised them the Holy Spirit (15:26) and spoke about how the Holy Spirit would work in their lives and in the world. He declared his love and spoke of the joy that any disciple could experience (16:20).

He told them about the good news. But he was also saying: ‘That’s not all’. Jesus never wanted to hide the truth from those first followers. He wanted to convey exactly what it would mean to be a disciple ‘in the world’. He wanted to prepare them for what was ahead.

He shared that it was going to be bad before it got better.

Generations of men and women have come and gone since

‘GOD LONGS FOR US TO SEE THE BIG PICTURE’ those first followers and still the truth of Jesus’ words is relevant.

There is a cost to being a disciple; but, hallelujah, this is not the end of the story!

The summary and climax of all he had been saying is found in John 16:33. Jesus speaks here of two realities that overlap and are interdependent. Together they display God’s ultimate plan.

trouble to triumph REALITY 1:

‘In this world you will have trouble’

For those first disciples charged with spreading the gospel it would mean persecution and difficulties. Today, our salvation is not accompanied by a written guarantee with fine print that says ‘trouble exempt’. Trouble is a certainty and the story is played out differently for each one of us.

REALITY 2: ‘I

have overcome the world’

Christians stake everything on this one amazing fact; that God raised Jesus from the dead. He who knew no sin became sin for us.

By allowing himself to be put to death he overcame and defeated death’s power.

Take heart then. Know his peace. And while we are ‘in the world’ may we know the reality of being ‘in him’. He has triumphed over all that would work for our ruin. Praise God, we know the ending. He is conqueror – he has overcome!

Thank you Jesus, for making the beginning, the middle and the end of our story one of triumph in you.

Revive 17

the

prayerhouse ‘ T H E Y A L L J O I N E D T O G E T H E R C O N S TA N T LY I N P R AY E R ’ ( A C T S 1 : 1 4 N I V )

COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON

General Linda Bond General Linda Bond takes office as the 19th general of The Salvation Army on 2 April 2011. Revive readers are invited to see the interview with the General at www.salvationarmy.org

World President of Women’s ministries, commissioner Sue Swanson, takes office on 2 April 2011. introduced in a recent issue of Revive (July-September 2010), the commissioner will visit Salvation Army women’s ministries around the world, encouraging women and leaders to reach out to women in their communities with the love of God.

R PRAY fO

18 Revive

1

Call to 24-7 Global Prayer. Pray for groups and individuals to commit specific times to prayer. Pray for more and more people to become involved in persistent prayer for the needs of the world.

2

Each month of the year will have a specific focus for prayer, found on the prayer website (www.SAglobal247.org).

3

Commissioner Sue Swanson as she travels extensively, encouraging women around the world. Pray that she will speak God’s message for women in these days.

4

General Linda Bond, that God will guide her and grant vision and wisdom as she leads The Salvation Army.

her name is

Tabitha Major Janneke Rozema

‘I

Tabitha has found a place of ministry in Dorcus Beads

n Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha accompanies me on our visit to Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); ‘Dorcus Beads’, a social workplace where she was always doing good and women produce beautiful beads out of helping the poor’ (Acts 9:36 New paper, using them to make jewellery. The International Version). products are sold to help the women earn an Tabitha understood the command given income. to us in 1 John 3:18, ‘Dear children, let us My visit to ‘Dorcus Beads’ begins by not love with words or speech but with sharing a meal with the leader, Margaret. As actions and in truth’. a good hostess Margaret The Tabitha in our ‘IT IS SO SPECIAL, begins by washing our story lives, not in Joppa, hands. It is so special for but in Kenya. We met on a TO EXPERIENCE me, a western woman to sandy road in the centre of SUCH HOSPITALITY’ experience such hospitalher village. From the start ity. Someone washing my Tabitha accompanied me so I had time to hands. Just imagine! In Kenya this is a comget to know her better. mon expression of hospitality.

Tabitha is an Aramean name. In Greek While in her home Margaret shares the her name is translated as Dorcas. Now, is it story of ‘Dorcus Beads’ in the village. The just a coincidence that Tabitha regularly women who make the beads are allowed to enjoys a hearty welcome at the local keep part of the profits for themselves. The ‘Dorcus Beads’? [See page 20 to read about other part is put into a money box and spent the Dorcus Beads initiative in Kenya.] on new materials.

It is reasonable to assume that Tabitha Later, we visit the local tailor. Tabitha has never travelled beyond the borders of walks with me, chatting cheerfully. It is a her village, but it is quite possible that she shame I do not understand her, but I do has seen more of ‘the world’ than many understand her friendly way of talking. who have travelled on long journeys. From there we visit a woman who is

disabled. Miriam has spent her life in a wheelchair. She lives at the edge of the village and depends on people like Tabitha to help. Miriam dreams of becoming a good tailor one day. I do not know if this is possible but her faith touches me deeply.

Tabitha remains at my side during my entire visit to the village. She is my pleasant, talkative companion. I notice that everyone she meets is treating her with love and respect. From others in the village I hear that Tabitha has helped people in word and action all her life.

This day, in this village, I believe I met a woman who truly lives out the meaning of her name. I am convinced that the friendliness of the people in the village is a fruit of the life of this now elderly woman.

Tabitha is indeed, a ‘woman full of good works and charitable deeds’ – a woman who serves joyfully.

Major Rozema is an officer of The Netherlands and Czech Republic Territory, currently serving as corps officer in Ostrava, Czech Republic.

She met Tabitha on a visit to Kenya East Territory

Major Janneke Rozema THE NETHERLANDS AND CZECH REPUBLIC TERRITORY

Revive 19

reality

Dorcus Beads Meble Birengo

I

n the ninth chapter of the book of Acts, Dorcas – a woman with a reputation for making beautiful clothing and doing good for others – dies. Her friends send at once for the apostle Peter, who commands Dorcas to ‘Get up’ – which she does.

Today, another woman named Dorcus (though spelled differently) found a way to help women affected by HIV/Aids breathe new life into their families and communities.

In 1994 Dorcus Kabugane attended an HIV/Aids workshop in Sudan and became trapped there because of conflict between Sudan and her home country of Uganda.

While she waited for the situation to change Dorcus stayed with a woman who made beads out of recycled paper. She learned the technique, and when she returned to Uganda, taught women in the slums of Kampala to make the beads. What began with one small group of women expanded to more than five groups who sold the beads to local markets to support their own children.

The beauty of Dorcus Beads is that they are made with ‘found’ items: pages from discarded glossy magazines. The paper beads can be made in as many colours as can be found in the magazines.

In March 2008, Dorcus was invited to Kithituni, a community east of Nairobi,

20 Revive

Kenya, to train five women in the art of bead production. She lived with the women for a week, mentoring and joining in their daily activities. The vision has now grown so that more than 100 women in the community are connected through the bead production. Margaret, the leader of the core team of five women and who still manages the production of beads in Kithituni, offers this reflection on the impact of Dorcus Beads on their lives: ‘When we began making the beads we didn’t know that it would take us this far.

Now we can rent our own place, make our own lunch, afford to buy our own materials, and buy books and food for our children.

The men are respecting us more because we are doing well in the community and they are now involved in finding magazines for us. The women have also connected more with each other. They can afford to pay for their own expenses.

‘A young woman told me that she was able to give her mother transport for the first time and this made her very proud.

Young girls who would spend time at Sultan Hamud, a locally-known centre for prostitution, have now started to learn bead-making and connect with the team.’

In Kithituni, Dorcus Beads enabled women to start saving. Each woman on the core team opened a bank account as part of

reality Left: threading the finished beads; right: Dorcus Beads participants measure and cut magazine pages to roll strips into beads; bottom left: catalogue image by Nikole Lim

her personal development. The making of beads has improved people’s lives and even extended them, as women can now afford to buy medicine and treatment.

The initial vision for Dorcus Beads in Kenya was to see women become stronger and more capable, living their lives to the

‘THE MAKING OF BEADS HAS IMPROVED PEOPLE’S LIVES AND EVEN EXTENDED THEM’

fullest. The hope was that the women would in turn use their strengths, connections and relationships to foster change in their families and communities – even as they kept Jesus Christ as the foundation of their lives. It has been a journey to watch all this unfold.

Dorcus Beads is not only an enterprise that nets a profit. The underlying relationships have been the greatest achievement. When the women come together to work on beads they talk about life – how to deal with the effects of poverty, family conflicts and HIV/Aids.

This has proved empowering.

Rolling the beads is not an easy process. An experienced bead maker can roll 100 small beads a day, enough to make about four necklaces. The women use no machines and each bead must be rolled individually, using both hands. The work is labour-intensive. The beads must be glued and varnished at least three times within a week in order to attain a shiny finish. Yet the women always manage to meet deadlines while filling roles as housewives and mothers.

Paper beads are common all over east Africa but Dorcus Beads continues to stand

out because of the quality control established by the team and the women’s foundational principles: faith and belief in Christ as guide and Saviour.

Ten stores in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi currently carry Dorcus Beads.

Business continues to grow through personal networking and craft fairs. People are drawn to this beautiful product because it is recycled and it is directly helping to make a difference in the lives of women, children, families and communities.

Dorcus Beads is becoming an avenue through which people can witness to God’s glory and faithfulness to his people. As interest grows, many more women will find a way to ‘get up’, like the biblical Dorcas, and sustain themselves, their families and their communities.

See page 19 for a modern-day ‘Dorcas’ who serves joyfully in her local village. For further information about Dorcus Beads check www.dorcusbeads.blogspot.com Beads can be purchased online at www.freelyinhope.org/dorcusbeads Story originally appeared in the Summer 2010 issue of Caring! magazine, produced by the USA Western Territory.

Photos by Meble Birengo, Ricardo Walters, and Sarah Whitey

Meble Birengo KENYA EAST TERRITORY

Revive 21

health

reshape

watch yo ur el lev CHOLESTEROL

I

n the last issue of Revive we noted that high blood pressure is called one of the ‘silent killers’ because it is often not noticed until it causes a major event such as a heart attack or stroke. High cholesterol is another of these ‘silent killers’. People are often unaware of having high cholesterol levels until they experience the consequences.

Our bodies contain both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol, gained from the food we eat. The ‘bad’ cholesterol can gather in the

‘CHANGES TO DIET AND LIFESTYLE CAN REDUCE CHOLESTEROL’ lining of the blood vessels throughout the body, causing narrowing and restricting blood flow.

This can result in at least two major health issues. First, narrowing of the channels can lead to a lack of blood being supplied to parts of the body, which may cause heart attack, kidney failure, stroke, or even blindness. Another possible consequence of high cholesterol levels is peripheral vascular disease, where insufficient blood gets to the legs and feet causing pain when walking, leg ulcers and, at its most severe, gangrene which may require amputation.

The second possible health issue caused by high cholesterol levels is disruption and breaking off of the cholesterol deposits, which are then carried away in the bloodstream. These broken pieces, called emboli, can block blood vessels. Smaller bits may pass unnoticed; larger bits may block blood vessels, reducing or even stopping the flow of blood to vital parts of the body.

As with high blood pressure, the damage caused by sustained elevated cholesterol levels occurs gradually. If a high cholesterol level is identified and treated the damage can be minimised or controlled. Therefore, screening for high cholesterol levels is recommended, particularly if high cholesterol runs in the family.

Medical professionals refer to special charts that can assess the risk of high cholesterol and can indicate when treatment is needed. Sometimes changes to diet and lifestyle can reduce cholesterol, avoiding the need for further treatment.

22 Revive

= Reduce or eliminate fried foods, cheese, cookies and

cakes from the diet. = Exchange butter for margarine and full cream milk for

skimmed or semi-skimmed milk. = Eat yoghurts or spreads that contain plant sterols that

have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. = include plenty of fibre in the diet. This reduces the

amount of cholesterol absorbed. = Alcohol can increase cholesterol. = if overweight, seek medical advice for helpful exercise

and weight loss information.

Sometimes these adjustments are not enough to bring cholesterol levels back to normal, especially if there is a family history of high cholesterol, and medication may be needed. As with high blood pressure treatments, there are different types of medication and some suit some people better than others. A doctor will determine the most suitable treatment for each person. It is important to be aware that medication for high cholesterol levels only controls the problem rather than cures it. Medication will need to be continued for life. the ion of cholesterol and To avoid gradual elevat healthy a it is best to commit to possibility of ill health, ed medical information. lifestyle and seek inform

Major (Dr) Eirwen Pallant is International Health Services Coordinator at IHQ. Her IHQ appointment sees her working three days a week at IHQ and two days practising in the community as a GP (family doctor).

27 - 31 31 DECEMBER JULY 2011 2009

25 SEPTEMBER 2011

MARCH 2010 2011 185SEPTEMBER

CALL TO PRAYER fOR –

PRAY fOR

CALL TO PRAYER fOR –

Peace

crown him the Lord of life, Who triumphed o’er the grave, And rose victorious in the strife For those he came to save; his glories now we sing Who died, and rose on high, Who died eternal life to bring, And lives, that death may die.

Victims of Sex Trade Trafficking

People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.

ANONYmOUS

For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer.

I PETER 3:12

(New International Version)

GODFREY THRING

The Songbook of The Salvation Army, No 156

Pray often, for prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan.

o Lord, whose human hands were quick To feed the hungry, heal the sick, Who love by loving deed expressed, help me to comfort the distressed. mALCOLm BALE

The Songbook of The Salvation Army, No 518

JOHN BUNYAN

Revive 23

Berni Georges

Marko 16:2 (Swahili Good News)

Very early on Sunday morning, just as the sun was coming up, they went to the tomb.

Mark 16:2 (Contemporary English Version)