6 August 2016 NZFT War Cry

FAITH IN ACTION | 06 August 2016 | Issue 6648 | $1.50

Keeping the Boat Afloat

IN PRAISE OF PARALYMPIANS PAPUA NEW GUINEA CELEBRATES 60 YEARS TAKING IT PERSONALLY WIN ‘UNASHAMED’, THE LATEST CHRISTINE CAIN BOOK GETTING A GRIP ON ROAD RAGE

Let’s Talk | 03

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Kia ora Living life forward WAR CRY

The Salvation Army Te Ope Whakaora New Zealand, Fiji & Tonga Territory FOUNDERS William & Catherine Booth GENERAL André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Robert Donaldson The Salvation Army’s message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by love for God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need in his name without discrimination.

War Cry exists to support and advance The Salvation Army’s message, ministry and mission.

EDITOR

Major Christina Tyson GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lauren Millington, Amber Wilkinson STAFF WRITERS

Ingrid Barratt, Major Shar Davis, Robin Raymond CONTRIBUTORS

Martin Barratt, Kris Singh

PROOF READING

Major Jill Gainsford COVER

Photography: AJ Johnston OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 Phone (04) 384 5649 Fax (04) 382 0716 Email warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department Phone (04) 382 0768 Email mailorder@nzf.salvationarmy.org $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT MakeReady | www.makeready.co.nz

When reading novels, my mother-in-law has a strange practice: she turns to the back page first for a quick skim, before getting stuck into the story from the start. We mock her, but sometimes there are merits to knowing where a story ends, aren’t there?

Some things would be smoother sailing if we knew exactly where our major life decisions would take us. If we knew a romantic relationship would bring heartache, would we let it start? If we knew we were going to fail a particular course of study, would we choose something easier? If we knew a job would end in retrenchment, would we bother to apply?

But life cannot be lived in hindsight. And plenty of things that happen are not things we even choose—they are things that happen to us. And so we must respond as wisely as we can, and see where our respective stories take us in the light of that.

In this edition we introduce you to Australian Nesan Kistan, who at the age of 22 lost his father in the mass killing at Tasmania’s Port Arthur. From the shock and disbelief of such an unexpected death, Nesan has charted a course to live a life that honours God. And, in our Soul Food segment this week, Salvation Army officer Major Glenys Fairhurst bravely reflects on the death of her husband along with the sorrow of other bereavements. In doing so, Glenys will perhaps help steady the ship for others by offering her own testimony that it is possible to stay afloat even through the storms of life.

In Romans chapter five we read that ‘suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

And hope does not put us to shame …’. Character and hope are not easily formed; they often come out of the crucible of the toughest of human experiences. If we could see the end and sidestep the difficult challenges along the way then life might be easier, but in a strange paradox it would also be poorer, because we’d no longer have the experience to support others with understanding and compassion.

Christina Tyson Editor

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Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.

All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated.

Articles are copyrighted to The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and may be reprinted only with permission.

Publishing for 133 years

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BY ROBIN RAYMOND

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BIBLE VERSE Hosea 12:6 The Message

‘What are you waiting for? Return to your God! Commit yourself in love, in justice! Wait for your God, and don’t give up on him—ever!’

Hōhea 12:6

‘Nā reira tahuri koe ki tōu Atua: puritia te mahi tohu me te tika, tatari tonu ki tōu Atua.’

ISSN 0043-0242, Issue 6648

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They spend more time in analysing, in collecting materials, and in hard thinking than on prayer, on seeking God’s mind, and on waiting for the power from above.

Watchman Nee

Photography: Greg Bowker/The New Zealand Herald

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he runners sped up, heading for the top bend of the track and the home straight. What followed was one of my favourite memories.

It was the 2011 IPC World Athletics Championships and the world’s best Paralympic track and field athletes were in Christchurch for a week, competing to qualify for the London 2012 Paralympics. In front of the main stand a South African athlete was receiving a gold medal, while on the track behind one of their athletes was running third in a 1500 metres final.

Behind me a crowd of South African athletes and supporters broke into spontaneous song. They began for the medal ceremony, but as the racers hit the final straight in front of them it turned into a roar of support that carried on and on, so loud it could be heard outside the stadium on the opposite side.

It was one of those spine-tingling moments sport creates on rare occasions—a moment of pure, uncontainable joy and excitement. It also captured the feeling of those championships.

Far from some pity party, pandering to the weak, the competition was an incredible procession of elite athletes performing elite feats. Along with a joy in simply competing that I haven’t seen anywhere else, they caught the best bit of sport —that moment when people overcome the odds to achieve.

In this case, competitors were competing for a spot on the biggest stage at the parallel Olympics. As a bit of a sports tragic, I love the Olympics (and the Paralympics even more).

They’re an extravagant circus, complete with those stories of people overcoming.

At Rio, we could see a Kiwi version of that story, with swimmer Sophie Pascoe arguably set to cement her place as

one of our greatest athletes. Pascoe was two when she was in a lawnmower accident that badly injured her right leg and meant her left leg had to be amputated below the knee. At 23 she already has 10 Paralympic swimming medals—double that of our best able-bodied athletes. If she races as expected in her five events she should match or pass our most decorated Paralympian, the pioneering Eve Rimmer.

Despite missing half a leg and a foot, Pascoe puts out race times just seconds behind New Zealand’s top able-bodied swimmers and around 10 seconds behind the able-bodied world record holders. I for one will be hooked to Duke TV’s Paralympics coverage to see her progress.

In the end, though, it will all be over in three weeks (or in Pascoe’s case less than 10 minutes of swimming). The founder of the modern games Baron Pierre de Coubertin, called the Olympics, ‘humanity’s superior religion’, and said, ‘have faith in it; pour out your strength for it, make its hope your own.’

But despite his lofty vision, what the games offer in return for athletes dedicating their life is a few seconds of fleeting glory.

There is much to be admired in and learnt from the dedicated training and focus of athletes like Pascoe, but we have the opportunity to dedicate ourselves to something much bigger.

The Salvation Army in this region is also known as the Army that brings life, something Jesus said he came to do—to bring life in all its fullness. As Christians we have been set free to the pure enjoyment of trying to live life in all its fullness and to bring life to others. And our training and focus has a permanent reward, bringing that life now and into the future.

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Bookshelf Memoirs No Longer I? Howard Webber It’s impossible not to like someone who opens their book by telling a story of how they were called the ‘worst corps officer ever’ (a Salvation Army term for a pastor). In a series of memoirs, Howard describes life as a corps officer in a Welsh village. His tales read like an English pastoral novel—full of quirky characters like the local scold and the fearsome Sunday school teacher. It makes a greatly enjoyable read—especially if you are familiar with Salvation Army foibles. Through it all, Howard reveals how these experiences revealed his own failings, and how he learnt to live daily the death and life of Jesus. (Gracednotes Ministries)

New Tech

Worship Hillsong United Of Dirt and Grace (Live from the Land) Hillsong United’s latest album is a live acoustic reimagining of their previous effort Empires. Designed as a visual album, it was performed and recorded in various locations where Jesus travelled and taught, including the Mount of the Beatitudes and The Sea of Galilee. When paired with the accompanying visuals, the record is stunning and draws from these songs an even deeper layer of meaning and awe. Each song is pared back to its core, and the record is driven by picked acoustics, percussion and excellent vocals and harmonies. Best enjoyed with the visual components, but as a standalone Of Dirt and Grace is equally impressive.

Christian Life/Women Unashamed Christine Caine Shame is one of those things no one likes to talk about, but everyone experiences. In her latest book Christine dives deep into the topic of shame and how it can rob us of so much. Drawing from her own experiences and lifelong struggle with this toxic feeling, Christine encourages women to recognise the patterns of shame, and on a foundation of Scripture equips them to break free from its grasp and build a stronger, healthier, more fulfilling life. It’s not an easy topic to address, but she does so with a great balance of honest reflection and hope for the future. While written for women, men could also benefit from her wisdom. (Zondervan)

Christian Life Raw Spirituality Tom Smith Tom Smith grew up in a church culture where individuals ‘asked Jesus into their hearts’. But Tom argues that is not enough—this individualistic, disembodied approach allows us to be Christians without challenging our culture.

How do we follow Jesus with the rest of our body, and within our community? Tom is deliberately provocative in his metaphors, which adds colour and lightness to his tone. Essentially, this is a reflection on the person of Jesus, and what that means to our lives.

There is nothing too revelatory in his theology, but Tom provides an enjoyable re-imagining of true discipleship. (IVP)

Reel News

Pop Rock Relient K Air For Free Relient K’s eighth studio album, Air For Free, takes heavy cues from the band’s quirky and tongue-incheek style, and by pairing this with a mature grasp on song writing, Relient K has crafted an excellent and refined record. Being effectively a two-piece band has major merits for Air For Free. Matthew Thiessen’s playful and introspective lyrics pair well with his piano-driven hooks, while Matt Hoopes punctuates each of the 16 tracks with rich and varied instrumentation. There are less power punk choruses to be found this time around as Relient K trades them instead for a playfully mature and musically more interesting record. Fans will love this, and new listeners will find a lot to like too.

GIVEAWAY To win a copy of Unashamed, tell us what ‘shame’ means to you.

War Cry Giveaway, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wgtn 6141 or email warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org. Entries close 20 August.

Life Reimagined winner is A. Shave

Drama Demolition Jean-Marc Vallée / M (Offensive language, sexual & drug references) From the director of the acclaimed Dallas Buyers Club comes a tale of demolition and rebuilding a life after Davis (Jake Gyllenhaal), a successful investment banker, loses his wife in a car crash. Despite pressure from his father-in-law to pull it together, Davis mentally and emotionally unravels.

What starts as his complaint letter to a vending machine company turns into a series of letters revealing startling personal admissions. His letters catch the attention of customer service rep Karen (Naomi Watts), who is struggling under her own burdens. The two form an unlikely connection.

With the help of Karen and her son Chris, Davis decides to take everything in his life apart to examine it from within (his dripping fridge, his computer and his house)—a literal and abstract demolition of his life and marriage.

Demolition is at times bleakly funny, melancholic and jarring as it examines where grief and destructiveness sometimes intersect in a man.

Much of the film is told in flashback or in a dream-like state as Davis tries to remember his wife and their past together.

Gyllenhaal is brilliant in the lead as he grounds Davis’ fast unravelling psyche, finding both humour and heart in a man who admits to having spent the past decade totally incapable of feeling.

Eventually, Davis’ physical and emotional journey leads him to a sobering realisation of his marriage: ‘There was love between me and Julia. I just didn’t take care of it.’

War Cry does not endorse or condone all the content in the films, albums and books we review. Our reviewers endeavour to inform readers of helpful and harmful components of the items under review.

Feature | 05

At 22, Nesan Kistan had life planned out. He had just finished university and was preparing to start a career in psychology. Then his father was murdered and his mother barely escaped with her life.

BY ROBIN RAYMOND

Photography: Dallas Kilponen/Sydney Morning Herald

06 | WarCry 06 August 2016

At his lowest moment, Nesan says God called him to a career of service, to turn tragedy into forgiveness, love and hope. Nesan and his wife Cheryl eventually became Salvation Army officers at a struggling corps (church) in one of Sydney’s most culturally diverse suburbs, where churches were closing every week.

Nesan will be speaking at The Salvation Army’s upcoming Mission Now conference in Wellington on how God helped him and Cheryl turn their corps into a thriving church again and on how to live Christ’s mission in diverse communities. Through it all, what has driven his ministry, he says, is that call from God to share his forgiveness, love and mercy.

Nesan and his family moved from South Africa to Australia when he was eight. Despite growing up in a loving Christian home Nesan says he was very angry as a child, lashing out at the world around him. The first of two life-changing encounters came at school when a Baptist minister who ran Christian education classes at the school saw something in the aggressive, disruptive teen and began to disciple him.

At the end of Year 10 Nesan was sitting at the back of the class one day, when the minister told the students it would be his last lesson.

‘He said, “I’ve never done this before, but I feel a call to ask young men to stand up and give their life to Jesus.” I hadn’t listened to anything he had said till then, but as soon as he said that I immediately got to my feet. My mates were saying, “What are you doing?”, trying to pull me back, but I said, “What is it you’re offering, because I need to accept that?”’

From there, he says his life changed completely. It was a shift so dramatic his teachers and the school principal commented on it. Although Nesan says his parents would say he was called to ministry from a young age, his own plans when he left school were for money not ministry—until his world changed again.

When Port Arthur happened my world cracked and my frailty as a human being was exposed to the highest point. My grief, pain and suffering was enormous.

After Port Arthur On 28 April 1996, Martin Bryant walked into a café in Port Arthur Australia and opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle. Nesan’s father pushed his mother to safety before being shot, one of 35 people killed in what was then the world’s worst mass shooting.

‘When Port Arthur happened my world cracked and my frailty as a human being was exposed to the highest point. My grief, pain and suffering was enormous. Even talking about it now you sense it again.’

However, the pain of that moment was also the moment Nesan says he felt God’s call again, clear and strong, to live wholly for him and move into ministry. ‘That’s when God, in his grace and love, said, “I haven’t forgotten you. I didn’t bring this upon you, but I will allow you to use this moment to bring wholeness, life and light to a dark world.” ’ Nesan abandoned his career plans and became a Salvation Army youth pastor in inner Sydney, working with troubled youth.

Feature | 07

Nesan remains a chaplain today, at times a ‘really, really hectic’ role that even saw him join other chaplains supporting police at the Sydney Lindt Café hostage situation in 2014. He says the role is a huge privilege even in the toughest times.

‘I’m there when police officers are in their darkest hours. I’m there when there’s a murder and they’re picking up body parts or cleaning streets, and it gives me an incredible opportunity, respect and permission to speak into their lives.’

Embracing cultural diversity

His friends thought he’d gone mad and even his mother questioned his choice, but the call from God was so strong he had no other choice, he says.

Nesan describes youth work as 10 years on a rollercoaster, but as an adrenalin junkie he loved every minute of it and still thinks of himself as a youth pastor at times. So, when the Army approached him and Cheryl asking if they would become the corps officers (pastors) at a church in Auburn, Sydney, he was initially reluctant.

‘I said, “If you can convince my wife, I will do it,” thinking there’s no way she would do it, but she said, “Yes.”’

Dependent on God The church, once a thriving, very traditional corps, was dying —down to less than 80 people, in an area that was rapidly changing. Along with being a melting pot of cultures, Islam was rapidly becoming the main religion in Auburn. Churches were closing so rapidly some asked if there was any point having churches or outreach in the area at all, Nesan says.

Auburn was also one of Sydney’s poorest suburbs with one of its highest crime rates, and the Kistans were untrained as officers, completing their training alongside their work at the corps. But Nesan says by the time he and Cheryl moved to their next appointments 10 years later, the corps was up to 250-300 members, where it remains.

He won’t give too much away about how that happened as this is what he plans to talk about at the Mission Now conference, but he says they began by making a lot of mistakes and by listening to people’s stories, before beginning to act. Crucially, Nesan says they felt God was calling them to become a house of prayer for all nations. Praying and learning to be humble and rely entirely on God was essential to all they did.

‘We began displaying acts of kindness and generosity beyond our own comprehension of how we could afford it. God kept on giving us more and more and more and more to the point where we were doing more than we were financially able to do. When you become dependent on God he provides and he does more than you could imagine.’

During that time Nesan also began work with refugees, built up relationships with local imams (Muslim clerics) and unintentionally became a police chaplain—a journey that began with chatting at community meetings and ended with the chief asking Nesan to pastor him through some tough personal issues, and then to do the same for his department.

On the back of his Auburn experience, Nesan has been appointed Australia Eastern Territory’s Multicultural Director—‘promoting, encouraging and initiating social and cultural inclusion’ inside and outside the Army.

Much of his work is on the frontlines of some of Australia’s biggest tensions, dealing with issues of race, religion and integration. These are also global issues, with a long history that are becoming increasingly important today. And they’re central issues for the church, ones many churches and leaders have not realised the significance of. Most of all they are at the heart of The Salvation Army message from its beginning, Nesan says.

… my responsibility to share Jesus honestly and vulnerably to all people is sewn into the fabric of who I am.

‘Some people say, “My community’s pretty mono-cultural, I don’t need to deal with this”, but we’re becoming a global village and faster than we might think. I’d rather ask, “How do we embrace this as a positive and how do we find unity in our diversity?” ‘The Salvation Army’s William Booth was always a global thinker. He set out to win the world for Christ. So how do we think globally and how do we win the world for Christ in our neighbourhood?’

What underpins all Nesan’s work, though, was a moment after the Port Arthur killings all those years ago in 1996.

The family’s house was swamped by media, with journalists camped on the front lawn and pestering visitors with questions.

Finally, a senior Salvationist leader who had come to support the family suggested giving a media conference to get rid of them.

‘The only person who was in a fit state to speak at that stage was me. I had no idea what to say and they were peppering me with questions and that was the God moment. I felt the Holy Spirit saying to me, “Forgive this man.” And I shared that with the people there, that I held no bitterness or anger towards him. And I still don’t. In fact, I have love for him.

‘Jesus died so that every individual would have the chance for salvation and Martin Bryant is no different. He is entitled to the same forgiveness, love and mercy that Christ gave on the cross.’

That forgiveness is not something he has given, Nesan says, but something that God gives and enables him to do. It’s an ongoing journey, but what happened in those dark days shapes everything he is as a person.

‘My response has been to be determined to live in a way that brings glory and honour to God. That’s a resolve that I will not shift from—my responsibility to share Jesus honestly and vulnerably to all people is sewn into the fabric of who I am. That is our mission and by so doing we will see Jesus coming again and be reunited with those we love. That’s my motivation, the reason I get up every single morning—and that’s got to be a great motivation to live for.’

Check out the lineup of inspiring speakers for the Mission Now conference, part of our ‘Now is the Time’ congress, 29 Sept–2 Oct in Wellington.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: PAUL DE JONG / Senior Pastor, LIFE Church (Auckland) Seminar: Self Leadership KEYNOTE SPEAKER: CHRIS CLARKE / CEO, World Vision NZ IVAN BEZZANT / Divisional Commander, Southern Division Seminar: Leading Through Others GRAHAM BIDOIS CAMERON / Cultural Advisor Talk: Active | Partners: Building our Cultural Intelligence SUE ELLIS / Divisional Children’s Mission Director, Northern Division Talk: Building Without a Blueprint is Messy and Challenging GREGORY FORTUIN / National Director of Education & Employment and former NZ Race Relations Conciliator Seminar: Innovation and Integration in Mission FULTON HAWK / Associate Director, Revolution Hawaii Seminars: Missional Entrepreneurs, Developing a Vision for the Arts JOSH ISAAC / Worship and Services Pastor, The Street City Church (Wellington) Seminar: Inspiring Great Worship CAPTAIN NESAN KISTAN / Director of Multicultural Ministries, Australia Eastern Territory Seminars: Thinking Globally Locally, Extending Justice and Faith in a Multicultural Community DAVE MANN / Director, Shining Lights Trust Seminar: An Approach to Evangelism that Sceptical Members are Embracing / Talk: Three Questions that Could Change Someone’s Life for Eternity RACHEL SANGSTER / Director of Unlimited Children’s Ministry Trust Seminar: Here to Stay—Passing on a Faith that Sticks THE WM TEAM / Territorial Women’s Ministries Seminar: The Marketplace—Ignite the Passion of Women in Your Setting Register today at www salvationarmy.org.nz/now A children’s programme for 2 to 13 years runs during the Mission Now conference—Kids @ Congress registrations must be received by the end of August.

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Lifestyle | 09

HEALTH

LIFESTYLE

It’s Okay for Kids to go Hungry

Is Road Rage Anger?

Q&A How can I talk to my siblings?

Food is vital to life. That’s why God made tastebuds. And that’s why we have such a strong emotional connection with food.

But our food habits—for better or worse—start when we are very young.

It can be hard to tell whether children are actually hungry, or simply want a yummy snack. (For that matter, it can be hard to know when we’re hungry, or just want to snack!)

The first step is to teach children what their stomach feels like when it’s hungry. ‘I ask my kids if they are hungry in their tummy or feel like food in their head,’ says one nutritionist. ‘I explain that feeling like having a yummy food is not the same as being hungry, and if we always indulge in what we feel like that stops us from being properly hungry at mealtimes when we need to be eating so as to get the nutrients our bodies need to work well.’

It’s important for children to come to the dinner table hungry. This teaches them the bodily signals of hunger, and that it is fulfilled by a balanced and nutritious meal. It also makes meal times a lot less stressful for parents —kids are a lot less fussy when they’re hungry!

If it’s an hour or less before mealtime, try the art of distraction. Encourage your children to keep their minds occupied—through fun activities and imaginative play. Encourage at least an hour of physical play every day. Let them join in on food preparation Of course, if they are actually hungry, children should be allowed to snack.

Just like they should be allowed to stop eating when they’re full. Provide set snacks and meal times—but it’s okay for the ‘kitchen to be closed’ between these times.

Finally, emotional eating is not always a bad thing. It is a way we share significant moments and family times. Teaching hunger and fullness will ensure that food continues to be a positive experience throughout their lives.

Some easy nutritional snack ideas: ΕΕ boiled egg ΕΕ pita bread and hummus

Yeah, we lose our temper on the road. But we’re not angry, it’s just that other people are such bad drivers!

Why is it that our usually reasonable selves turn into angry, blaming bigots when we get behind the wheel? Perhaps it’s because it feels like we can vent without consequences, so we don’t need to check our anger or aggression.

Psychologist Steve Albrecht says road rage shows a need to control others. ‘[Road ragers] suffer from the “It’s the Other Driver’s Fault” syndrome. But one simple answer to road rage is to simply concentrate fully and intently on your own driving, and not make eye contact or care about those around you, even when their own skills leave a lot to be desired. Only you can let someone ruin your day or worse, or push your hot buttons. Focus on being “relentlessly positive” and realise you can’t control, coerce, or fix other people. You can only manage you. Practice kindness, starting with you first.’

This is easier said than done, so here are some ways to take control: ΕΕ Focus on relaxing by keeping your breathing slow and regular. When you get angry, your higher brain functions shut down, making it hard to stay in control. ΕΕ Say comforting, positive things to yourself like: ‘Just relax. It’s going to be okay. Just keep driving, and we’ll get where we want to be.’ ΕΕ Listen to calming music. ΕΕ Imagine the person in the other car is one of your loved ones.

ΕΕ fruit (arranged like a face!)

ΕΕ Remember that every motorist around you has a mother, father or children. Would you act like that if you knew those people?

ΕΕ homemade popcorn

ΕΕ Know that you’re a good person who doesn’t want to hurt anybody.

ΕΕ crackers and cheese

When you are offended at any man’s faults, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger. Epictetus

ΕΕ nuts and raisins ΕΕ yoghurt.

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie This satisfying and substantial family meal is incredibly popular, even with nonvegetarians! | Serves 4–6 6 medium potatoes (about 1 kg) 2 Tbsp butter 1 cup grated cheese ¼–½ cup milk 2 Tbsp canola or other oil 2 large onions, diced 1 red or green pepper, diced 3 Tbsp flour 1 tsp instant vegetable stock 1 tsp each dried basil, oregano, paprika and dark soy 1½ cups water, bean liquid and/ or potato cooking liquid 2 Tbsp tomato paste 400g can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Simmer quartered potatoes in lightly salted water until tender. Drain, saving cooking liquid in case you want to use it later.

I come from three children, and would really like to talk to my siblings about some dysfunctional patterns. Every time I bring it up I quickly get shut down. How can I get through to them?

If you see dysfunctional family patterns and are brave enough to want to change things, you have already made some exceptional positive changes in your life. Your siblings, however, may be anywhere on the spectrum of change from ‘completely unconscious’, to knowing they need to change but still resistant.

Psychotherapist Dr David Allen says the simple use of ‘disclaimers’ can help you bring up difficult topics, These ‘pre-statements’ help reassure others, while avoiding defensiveness and power struggles. Also, make sure you employ a friendly tone of voice and body language.

When bringing up someone else’s behaviour, you might say something like, ‘I know you’re not trying to anger me when you do that, but when you do [such and such], it would be easy for someone who did not know you so well to get the wrong idea.’

Where they have difficulty receiving the topic you bring up, you can say, ‘I know this is hard to talk about, but it sounds like it is really important.’

You can even ‘put the burden of craziness on yourself,’ says Dr Allen, by saying, ‘I know this might sound crazy, but I sometimes think …’

Other useful disclaimers include: ΕΕ ‘I’m sure you already know …’

Mash potatoes, then stir in butter, half the grated cheese and enough milk for a soft consistency. After mashing, beat potatoes with a fork until light and fluffy.

ΕΕ ‘I don’t know if this is accurate or not, but I wonder... What do you think?’

Heat oil in large pot or frypan. Add onions and cook until they are tender and well browned. Add chopped pepper and flour, stir until flour is lightly browned. Add remaining ingredients except beans, bring to boil, stirring constantly, before adding beans. Adjust seasoning to you taste.

ΕΕ ‘I’m not trying to turn [family member] into a villain, but …’

Spread mixture into lightly sprayed baking pan about 20 x 25cm and cover with spoonfuls of mashed potato, spreading until the pan is covered. Sprinkle remaining grated cheese over surface. Cook uncovered at 180°C for 20–30 mins.

From Quick Meals by Simon Holst www.holst.co.nz

Essentially, disclaimers are a way of re-assuring the other person. If you get resistance, continue to humbling using disclaimers: ‘I know you really do care about me but ...’ Or, ‘You might be right …’

Of course, it’s always easier said than done. But this simple tool will ensure you can approach difficult topics in a friendly and open manner.

Testify For Bevan Sanders a desire to help people make the most out of their lives led him to working with at-risk Wellington young people.

I’ve always had a heart for wanting to help people. Since I was late teens and early 20s, when I saw things happening with young people and families my heart kind of broke for them. After school I studied and did different jobs before I found an outdoor education course run through Bible College New Zealand (now Laidlaw College). Then I worked at Blue Mountain Adventure Centre (BMAC) for seven years.

The BMAC slogan of helping people achieve their God-given potential through the outdoors, for me that was what I was all about.

While I was there we were involved in a youth programme called Project K, which got me interested in youth work. Then when I was looking to move on a job came up at Wellington Youth Services.

I’ve been here two years. I work with teens from Wellington High School and do leadership training for students at Capital Training—a training institute in Wellington and Upper and Lower Hutt for young people who have left school early.

I also support mentors working in Education and Employment classes around the country as part of our new Kiwi Next Generation programme.

But mainly I work with the guys from the Wellington Youth Services transitional housing.

We do a weekly youth meal with games and a short Bible message

with teens from our guys and girls houses and the wider community.

Every now and then I do a supervising shift at the boy’s home, cook dinner with them, hang out and stay overnight. We might watch a movie, play PlayStation or board games, and in that time you get to have really good chats with them about where they are in life.

My work is in trying to find out where they’re at, what they want to do with their life and offer help, rather than telling them they have to do this and that.

There are lots of issues that affect young people that can completely mess them up. It can be drugs, alcohol, mental health, domestic violence. For some, you’re the only stable person in their life.

Youth work can be frustrating sometimes, but it’s about whether they’re ready to change. We had one young guy who was with us;

the twelve steps workshop

Gain skills for living in recovery from hurts and habits, and help others on this journey.

Booth College of Mission’s two-part Twelve Steps Workshop will be held on 19–22 September and 18-20 October, facilitated by therapist Ferrell Irvine.

drugs and alcohol were taking over his life. He dropped out of a course and we had to ask him to leave.

He moved away then eventually got to a point where he was back in Wellington and homeless. He found faith and asked to come back to us, as he was ready to get clean and turn his life around and he knew Wellington Youth Services could help. Another guy had lots of background issues, but in his time with us he’s going to course again. He’s got into dancing and recently went to a competition, so he’s been able to get some direction in his life.

I want to help people make the most out of their lives, and with these young people 99 per cent of them have never had the chance.

What I do is a small part of helping them get that chance. It’s really exciting to see these young people grow in themselves.

Let’s Talk I would like: to explore what it means to follow Jesus information about Salvation Army worship and activities prayer for the following needs:

NAME: ADDRESS:

Register your interest today.

Contact Lee-Ann Nero, p: (04) 528 8628 e: bcm@nzf.salvationarmy.org

www.salvationarmy.org.nz/boothcollege

Please post to: War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wgtn 6141 or email: warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org

10 | WarCry 06 August 2016

Close Up | 11

SUDOKU

Difficulty Medium

1 6 8

2 7 4 6 5 7 8 5 3 8 9 6 1 7 2 1 4 4 3 2 7 6 5 9 4 7 6 3 9 2 9 4 7

Photography: Getty Images

BY INGRID BARRATT

I’ll Stand With You The little known story of Peter Norman, an Australian Salvationist who ran the race of his life to win silver in the 1968 Olympics, but gave up his own glory to stand up for justice and for God.

Each Sudoku number puzzle has a unique solution that can be worked out logically (not mathematically). The numbers 1 to 9 appear once in every row, column and 3x3 square.

QUICK QUIZ 1 What TV channel has recently come to NZ? 2 What film based on a hit 1980’s song launched at the NZIFF this year?

3 What animal has the scientific name Loxodonta?

4 What is the name of the first space probe to enter Saturn’s orbit?

5 What NZ food is made with fermented potatoes?

6 What is the capital city of Turkey?

7 Where is Hairy Maclary from?

8 Who is the current Minister of Conservation?

9 What TV programme is taking the world by storm through an app?

10 Who was raised up by Paul after falling out a window?

1 8 9 3 6 4 5 7 2

6 3 2 5 7 1 8 4 9

5 4 7 8 2 9 1 6 3

2 6 8 9 5 3 7 1 4

7 9 4 6 1 2 3 5 8

3 5 1 4 8 7 9 2 6

4 2 5 7 9 8 6 3 1

8 7 3 1 4 6 2 9 5

9 1 6 2 3 5 4 8 7

Find more Cartoons by McKerrow on www.facebook.com/cartoonsbymckerrow

It was 1968, the heart of the civil rights movement in the United States. The Olympics were being held in Mexico City. Brilliant black runners from the US team had just taken out two of the three medals in the 200 metre race. John Carlos was the Olympic gold medallist and Tommie Smiths had won bronze. They knew they had to make the most of the historic moment that had been given to them. John remembers his heart beating and mind racing as they approached the famed Olympic podium.

As they took the stand, barefooted to symbolise poverty and oppression, they each raised a black-gloved fist in the ‘salute’ of the American black power movement. Accounts tell of how a hush came over the entire stadium, and even the person singing the ‘Star Spangled Banner’ faded into silence.

‘And then came the storm. First boos. Then insults and worse.

People throwing things and screaming racist abuse. “N****rs need to go back to Africa!” and “I can’t believe this is how you n*****rs treat us after we let you run in our games”,’ writes Gary Younge, editor-at-large for The Guardian.

To the (white) majority, the actions of these men were unpatriotic and traitorous. At best, they were bringing politics into sport. At worst, they were ingrates who betrayed the nation.

Yet, decades later, John says he felt he was born for that moment. ‘I had a moral obligation to step up. Morality was a far greater force than the rules and regulations they had,’ he recalls.

Despite the enormous oppression and isolation the two black athletes faced after their act of protest, the potent image of them with fists raised has become one of the defining images of the American civil rights movement.

There is one man in the picture who has largely gone unnoticed. He is a white man who appears to be looking the other way, distancing himself from the protest. But take a closer look, and you’ll see that this man is wearing the same protest badge as his fellow medallists—it says ‘Olympics Project for Civil Rights’, a group that had recently formed to fight racial inequality.

His name was Peter Norman, an Australian athlete who had

won a silver medal in that same 200 metre race. It should have been the moment of his life—he had just run his personal best and smashed the Australian record (which is still unbeaten today). But he decided to give the moment away.

Norman, who grew up in a Salvation Army family, was a passionate Christian.

‘The two Americans had asked Norman if he believed in human rights,’ writes Riccardo Gazzaniga, in an article that went viral this year. ‘Peter said he did. They asked him if he believed in God, and he, who had been in The Salvation Army, said he believed strongly in God. “We knew that what we were going to do was far greater than any athletic feat, and he said “I’ll stand with you”—remembers John —“I expected to see fear in Peter’s eyes, but instead we saw love.” ’ Norman asked for the civil rights badge to wear as a symbol of his solidarity, saying ‘I believe in what you believe.’ A white American Olympic rower, Paul Hoffman, gave Norman his own badge. The three discussed how the protest would be done—it was Peter who suggested they each wear a black glove—symbolic of the black power movement.

An anxious buzz started to circulate within the Olympic athletic community as the three men walked up to the podium.

It has been said that sharing my silver medal with that incident on the victory dais detracted from my performance.

On the contrary. I have to confess, I was rather proud to be part of it.

The repercussions began almost immediately. John and Tommy were expelled from the Olympic USA team and the Olympic village.

Their teammate Paul was accused of conspiracy. The two medallists faced years of degradation and isolation, unable to get work and treated like traitors.

But back in Australia, Peter was also being ostracised by his community. For years, his only chance of being ‘pardoned’ from his part in the protest was to publicly condemn the actions of his co-medallists. A pardon would guarantee him a place back in the Australian Olympic fold.

Instead, Peter held fast and refused to condemn his fellow athletes and co-civil rights conspirators. As a result, he struggled to find work.

In an interview for the documentary Salute, produced by his nephew

I expected to see fear in Peter’s eyes, but instead we saw love.

Matt Norman, Peter recalls being overlooked for the following Munich Olympics in 1972. ‘I would have dearly loved to go to Munich, [but] I’d earned the frowning eyes of the powers that be in track and field,’ he said. ‘I’d qualified for the 200 metres 13 times and 100 metres five times [but] they’d rather leave me home than have me over there [in Munich].’

The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) denies Peter was punished for the stance he took—it says he was simply cautioned.

And the AOC contends he was not selected in 1972 simply because he didn’t meet the criteria. Even as late as 2000, Peter was not part of the Aussie delegation at its own Sydney Olympics, claims the documentary. Again, the AOC dispute this.

Peter died suddenly of a heart attack in 2006. His remarkable Olympic achievements most notable for their absence from Australian consciousness—a country that is proud of their sporting heroes.

It was not until 2012 that the Australian Parliament issued a formal apology to Peter, reinstating him as an Australian hero—both for his sporting achievements, and for his bravery during the civil rights movement.

John and Tommie, who remained friends with Peter from that fateful moment in 1968, were pallbearers at his funeral.

‘Peter was a lone soldier. He consciously chose to be a sacrificial lamb in the name of human rights. There’s no one more than him that Australia should honour, recognise and appreciate,’ says John.

‘He paid the price with his choice,’ agrees Tommie. ‘It wasn’t just a simple gesture to help us, it was his fight. He was a white man, a white Australian man among two men of colour, standing up in the moment of victory, all in the name of the same thing.’

Peter rarely talked publically about his part in history, but his words in the documentary Salute, sum it up: ‘I couldn’t see why a black man couldn’t drink the same water from a water fountain, take the same bus or go to the same school as a white man,’ he says.

‘It has been said that sharing my silver medal with that incident on the victory dais detracted from my performance. On the contrary. I have to confess, I was rather proud to be part of it.’

Parts of this article sourced from ‘The White Man in That Photo’ by Riccardo Gazzaniga.

Quick quiz answers: 1 Bravo (replacing ‘Four’), 2 Poi E, 3 African elephants, 4 ‘We built this city on rock and roll’, 5 Rēwena (aka Māori bread), 6 Ankara, 7 Donaldson’s Dairy, 8 Pete Hodgson, 9 Pokémon, 10 Eutychus (Acts 20:9-10).

06 August 2016 WarCry | 13

recognised its popularity, and combining this idea with Ingress and the database it had already collected, Pokémon Go was born.

It’s incredibly nerdy … and I love it! Every outing is now an adventure to catch Pokémon and a chance to represent the best team in the game. (Team Valor!)

Whilst this game has taken over the world and seemingly tied people to their phones even more than the usual, I think there

begin that discipleship journey!

After a short while, we noticed an increase in traffic just outside the church, both in vehicles and on foot!

Teamwork

2 Corinthians 2:15 tells us, ‘For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.’

Nothing quite fosters community like competition. Red Valor. Blue Mystic.

Yellow Instinct. Familiar colours anyone?

(The Salvation Army colours people … catch up!)

So, keen to really be the ‘aroma of Christ’ in our community, our youth group jumped on this as a ministry opportunity and took out some energy drinks for the

All is done in a friendly camaraderie, because all are after the same goal. *cue theme song again*

It’s incredibly nerdy … and I love it!

Every outing is now an adventure … are some important lessons that can be learnt by us in the Church.

Party poopers We all know them … and perhaps you’re one of them? There is a new fad or phenomenon that brings people joy, and with an air of superiority there are those who deem themselves ‘above’ it. ‘It’s just a fad, it’ll die soon enough.’

You know another group of people who thought they were above something? The Pharisees of Jesus’ time.

Phillippians 4:8 says, ‘Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.’

Don’t mock this new gaming phenomena—it has some lessons for all of us.

For the past few weeks, I’ve been living the dream of every kid who grew up in the 1990s and early 2000s. To be the very best, like no one ever was. *Cue theme song* Pokémon Go. People seem to either seem love it or hate it.

For those not in the know, the worldwide phenomenon that is Pokémon Go is what’s known as an Augmented Reality Mobile Game. It overlays the real world with a digital one, meaning that to achieve the objectives of the game, you need to physically travel in the real world. It’s a videogame where you actually have to go outside to play!

The goal of this game is to collect all 150 Pokémon and become the best Pokémon trainer there ever was by levelling up your collected Pokémon and claiming gyms for your team, using said Pokémon to battle in the pursuit of this gym-claiming quest.

All this is from a TV show that was all the rage in my middle school years—about 15 years ago. Hence why, despite its cute cartoon figures, and an entire premise seemingly aimed toward children, it’s the teenagers and the nostalgic generations of those in their mid-20s to 30s who are out playing the game!

Churches, artworks, landmarks of historical significance are now ‘Pokéstops’ where you can refuel on game supplies, or Gyms where you can train your Pokémon and

battle those from other teams (there are three teams: red team Valor; blue team Mystic; and yellow team Instinct). All within your smart phone.

It’s made by a company called Niantic, a start-up of Google that specialises in these types of games. Its previous big hit was a game called ‘Ingress’.

Using Google Maps info and submissions from Ingress players, a database of monuments, art and landmarks became ‘portals’ that could be claimed by one of two teams: the Blue Resistance or Green Enlightenment.

A couple of years ago, Google released an April Fools’ Day prank on its Maps site enabling Pokémon to be found and captured there. The creator of Ingress

Don’t be a hater! There are so many more evils to fight against than a game that brings joy to so many, regardless of whether you understand it or not!

There are emerging stories of this game being the catalyst for lonely people to get up and out of the house, and for anxiety and depression-prone individuals to begin a journey of hope and re-engagement with the world around them. It can spark friendships, inspire fitness regimes … and even lead people to a church and Jesus!

Attracting a crowd The Friday after the game released, I was at youth group and the ‘nerds’ amongst the youth were keenly playing the game and applying ‘Lure Modules’ to attract Pokémon to our corps—which is a Pokéstop in the game world. Lure Modules and Incense are the two methods of attracting Pokémon to your location.

people we saw playing this game, telling them who we were and that we were praying God would bless them.

People were attracted by what our in-game church had to offer. So, what has your church got to offer to the world?

Exercise … and meet new people!

Since the release of Pokémon Go, I’ve walked about 70 km that I probably wouldn’t have otherwise walked.

Lunchtime is spent wandering the abundantly Pokéstop-filled CBD where I work, talking with strangers as we share in the joy of the game.

A friend and I went out to Mission Bay to hunt Pokémon. There were a couple of hundred people in each location despite it being about 11 pm on a cold Thursday night. Another weekend day was spent at the Auckland domain on the same hunt, this time with my girlfriend.

I can be walking along anywhere now and see other people playing the game.

There’s a certain sparkle in their eye, and they hold their phone a particular way.

They’re easy to spot. Pokémon Go has demolished a lot of barriers. I’ve talked to more strangers in the past couple of weeks than I did all last year! I’ve even befriended some of them.

Jesus said, ‘Go out into the world and make disciples.’ Well, this game is a great tool to connect with others and

Likewise, as Christians—some of whom are Salvationists, some Baptist, others Anglican, and so on—we’re all a part of different ‘teams’, but with an overall shared goal. While it can feel like we’re competing sometimes, we are all just simply dedicated to becoming like the best who ever was ...

‘To be the very best’ The theme song to Pokémon starts with the line: ‘I want to be the very best, like no one ever was.’ Every dedicated Pokémon trainer in this game is united in pursuit of this one goal: to be the very best.

Being united with a common goal is good, but technically, only one of us can be the very best.

Thankfully, in Christianity, we already have One who was the very best. Jesus.

In a couple of months, I don’t think nearly as many people will be playing this game.

It will inevitably fall by the wayside as

different priorities arise in players lives.

But for the time being, I feel this has opened opportunities for evangelism and become a challenge for myself and all of you. The Church is to be seen in the world. And just as players of Pokémon Go recognise each other out in the world, it should be evident in each of our lives that we are believers in Christ—easy to spot, easy to connect with, and serving someone powerful enough to unite the world under his banner.

Oh, and if you haven’t joined a team already … Go Valor!

A group of 150 young people, including special guests from the USA, were ‘under the influence’ at the Fiji West Youth Rally.

The rally on 25 June saw young people from seven corps celebrate the theme of being ‘Under the Influence’ of Christ at a rally that highlighted forgiveness and freedom found in God. Along with teaching and celebrations the corps also held friendly volleyball matches.

A team of six Salvationist youth from the USA Southern Territory joined in the fun.

It was part of a six-week trip by the group, who were kept busy by the Fijian Division, which enjoyed hosting them.

The team, aged 20 to 21, visited Fiji to help with disaster relief operations in the Rakiraki community, cleaning up from Cyclone Winston through to helping with painting at Saweni Corps. They also visited prisons, joined Joy Hours and Home Leagues and took part in Sunday meetings at Ba, Rakiraki, Saweni and Suva Central Corps.

Divisional Programme Secretary Major Arone Cheer said the group came to support the division and the people of Fiji were pleased to have been able to do the same for them.

‘Although the visit was a chance for the American Salvationists to help and minister, they personally found they were blessed and ministered to by the people of Fiji.’

Group member Ruth Choi from Maryland said

Laughter, sports, food, friendship—all these elements turned a day that started with disappointment into a day that brought an appointment with fun.

With lunches already prepared, sports gear ready, and lots of young and not so young people all fired up ready to go, it was decided that a gathering could still be held a little closer to home where, despite grey skies, the weather was holding out. Thank you Facebook for helping spread the word!

they felt at home from the moment they arrived to a warm welcome from Arone. They were made to feel like family by members of the Saweni Corps, especially when they returned to Saweni Corps later in the trip, where they also had the chance to help paint part of the corps building and build a shed, she said.

The Americans were inspired by the work done

by The Salvation Army in Rakiraki after Cyclone Winston, said team member Charles Morrow, from Georgia. ‘The team was in awe at how the community had come together to recover from the storm. We were able to visit some villages nearby like Narewa and Navolau.’

Spending a night at a village on Malake Island was also confronting, although the guys did enjoy an overnight fishing trip, he said. ‘It was amazing to have the chance to experience the village life. They showed us the destruction in

Christchurch City, Sydenham and Hornby teams met up at Wycola Park in Hornby for volleyball, soccer and touch (friendly competition only—no scorecard) for a couple of hours before enjoying lunch together.

Some went home after lunch and some stayed to play a few more games. It was great to laugh together, to encourage younger players, chat with old friends and get to know people we hadn’t met before. A great time was had by all!

Aux-Captain Julie Turner

the village, but to see their positive outlook on life even though what they knew was destroyed was a blessing.’

Anna Morris from Florida said she was constantly amazed by the continuous generosity of the Fijian people. The group said it was an honour to be able to visit Fiji and to play a small part in the work happening there.

When we heard the news that the annual Southern Sevens had been cancelled due to rain in Timaru, those of us in Dunedin refused to let this put a damper on our day (excuse the pun).

We contacted the crew from Winton (who were already in Mosgiel) and invited them to join us under the banner ‘The Duntin Sevens’ (Dunedin and Winton), aka ‘The More Southern Sevens’.

We decided on volleyball, soccer and touch rugby, spending the day having a barrel of laughs sliding round on the wet grass and laughing at each other. It was a very close competition, with both Dunedin and Winton making the podium, but the overall win was taken out by the Dunedin Red team.

After all the sports were done and dusted and calories burnt, we joined together in regaining those calories over a shared pizza.

What could have been an average day, turned into an awesome time of getting to know each other better, and for a few of us, realising just how unfit we really are.

Michaela Lobb

Our Community | 15

Timaru Corps’ Mission with Heart

(l–r) Jane Ferguson, Kelvin Lockyer, Mjr Murray Sanson, David & Amanda Blaikie, Tracey Layt, Iris & Rodney Derham, Lorraine Rawston.

Mālō e lelei! In April, nine excited Salvationists (seven from Timaru Corps and two from Linwood Corps) embarked on a 14-day mission to support Nuku‘alofa Corps in Tonga. For three of the group it was a return visit to the beautiful island kingdom.

At the airport we were welcomed by Captain Sila Siufanga (Regional Commander), Captain Malia Siufanga (Regional Director of Women’s Ministry) and Lieutenants Eliesa and Selalina Prescott (Nuku‘alofa Corps Officers), before settling into the Siufangas’ house for the next 14 days.

The main reason for this mission was to help build a safe fence around the Nuku‘alofa hall and Sopu kindergarten to keep out pigs and dogs and decrease vandalism. Some wonderful local youth had already made a start, clearing the site and digging post holes, a task made harder because of heavy rain from Cyclone Winston. Wet ground forced a delay to the start of our fence building, so we got on with other jobs, including painting doors, bathrooms, a sandpit wall, and a play house that later became known as ‘The Kiwi House’.

We joined hardworking locals on site every day to help out. It was a wonderful way to get to know them better as we worked side by side.

There were many humbling times, but none more so than when we were being fed—people were so generous!

The women in our group were warmly welcomed to home league as part of the family. On our second week in Tonga, our women led the group, taking people on a quick tour of New Zealand that included making Māori headbands and pois, learning a poi dance, and playing ‘Pin the Beak on the Kiwi’.

We were grateful to spend time sightseeing with Captain Sila and Lieutenants Eliesa and Selina, taking in the blowholes, Captain Cook’s landing site and enjoying a relaxing swim in the ocean.

We were sad to farewell our new friends, but had no doubt that God had been at the centre of all our times together.

We’ve been at home for a while now, which has given us time to reflect on our time in Tongatapu. The Tongan people taught us so much and we are richer for our experiences. Everyone in our group had their own highlights: • Lorraine: Home league—attending and leading.

• Jane and Amanda: The caring of the people and being treated as one of the family.

• Iris: The openness of the women as they talked about their spiritual journeys. Their complete reliance on God in all areas of their lives was a great encouragement. God was totally evident in their lives and worship.

• Kelvin: Our last Sunday, especially the different items put on by corps people.

• Murray and David: Working alongside the locals while building the fence.

• Rodney: Interaction with members of the corps band. They were enthusiastic and keen and played well. It was great for the three of us who played to receive the gift of the carvings engraved ‘Tonga Brass’. We really enjoyed the fellowship!

• Tracey: Playing with the children of Kolovai kindergarten and giving toys to Sopu kindergarten.

We would like to say a great big malo (thank you) to all the wonderful people of Tonga who made us feel so welcome. We thank God that he made this trip possible and for all the people we met. We pray that the bonds made and friendships forged continue for many years to come.

Tracey Layt

16 | WarCry 06 August 2016

Our Community | 17

Rhythm & Culture Concert Sure to be a Congress Highlight This year’s Mission Now congress launches with what is set to be an incredible night that will celebrate and honour the diversity of cultures and creative arts within The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga Territory.

The ‘Rhythm & Culture’ concert on 29 September features the headline act Musical Island Boys barbershop quartet, international award-winning performers known for their dazzling performances of vocal range and skill. The Musical Island Boys will entertain young and old with their dynamic polyphony and immaculate delivery.

The evening’s Master of Ceremonies is also a stand-out performer, Tofiga Feplea’I, one half of the comedic duo The Laughing Samoans.

Tofiga is one of the most sought after MCs and he’ll add spice that not even the Spice Girls could achieve!

Cultural performances from Aotearoa New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga will captivate the audience throughout the evening.

New Zealand’s Kapa Haka group was a highlight for many around the world at Boundless 2015 International Congress, when they performed ‘Te Haka A Te Pōti’ (‘I’ll fight’—inspired by William Booth’s famous speech).

Other incredible talent performing during the evening include T.J. Taotua, Lisa Tomlins, Kirsten Te Rito, Bella Kalolo, Liz Fa’alogo, Wini Baxter, Solomona Sua and Doug Voon.

The Rhythm & Culture Choir is a 13-strong male and female choir, made up of Salvationists and friends who have a passion for music.

Most are either involved with a worship team in various corps or sing in local bands in the Wellington music scene, so there is a lot of experience and excitement.

The worship band (with rhythm and brass sections) boasts experienced session and professional musicians who have played in many local and church worship groups over the past three decades— again, most are actively involved with corps worship and music teams.

Concert organiser Livi Ah Hoi of Kilbirnie Corps said, ‘Above all else, Rhythm & Culture will bring praise and glory to our Lord and Saviour, as we celebrate the love of God together.’

Promotion for this event is taking place across the Wellington region with the hope that many members of the public will come along to enjoy the evening alongside Salvationists and friends there for the congress weekend.

Rhythm & Culture is on at the Michael Fowler Centre, Thursday 29 September, 7pm. This is a FREE event, with no registration required.

Five New Soldiers for Wellington South On Sunday 5 June, five new soldiers were enrolled at Wellington South Corps by Major Darrell LePine and Lieutenant Janet Green.

Serge Artemiev, who has been a Christian for 35 years, acknowledged that while his life had seen many challenges, he had never lost sight of Jesus, and Jesus had never left or forsaken him.

Louise Bulled declared her determination to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ, believing that she can make a difference.

Mike Savoy thanked the many people who had journeyed alongside him as he had grown in his faith journey and celebrated that he now felt closer to God than ever.

Colin Korovin expressed the desire to serve Jesus, his longing to see the world become a more peaceful place, and affirmed his reliance on God—and God alone—for daily strength.

Paul Alforque said prayer was his greatest instrument as a Christian, bringing him peace and equipping him to be a soldier fighting in God’s war.

As the corps welcomed the new soldiers, the congregation sang ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’, acknowledging that each of them was called to be active followers of Jesus.

General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox (World President of Women’s Ministries) received a traditional welcome on the tarmac at Goroka Airport in Papua New Guinea (PNG), where they were to lead 60th anniversary celebrations. Asaro mudmen, covered in mud and wearing large clay masks over their heads, danced and ‘threatened’ with spears and arrows.

After officers councils, a welcome rally marked the beginning of the PNG Northern Congress. Representatives of tribes from the North Western Division sang and danced in colourful traditional costumes.

People gathered from all over the Highlands and North Coastal areas, with some travelling for as long as nine hours over difficult terrain.

The congress theme ‘Right at the Heart’ was reflected in the location of the open-air venue in the busiest part of the city of Goroka.

Throughout the congress, hundreds of people responded to the Holy Spirit, sometimes moving forward despite the rain, to kneel in the mud to bring their lives under the lordship of Christ.

A prominent citizen of Goroka, Dr Joio Quinn, sponsored a dinner for the General and Commissioner Cox, Salvation Army

Faith Community Nurses Conference

(l–r) Serge Artemiev, Paul Alforque, Mike Savoy, Colin Korovin and Louise Bulled.

Salvation Army Sells Northern HomeCare Branches The Salvation Army has announced the sale of its HomeCare branches in Auckland, Waikato and Rotorua to the Christian social service provider VisionWest Community Trust. HomeCare provides personal and specialised services to the elderly and people with disabilities to enable them to remain living independently in their homes.

VisionWest was The Salvation Army’s preferred purchaser. The Army has worked with VisionWest for many years and the two organisations share the same Christian ethos, the same values, and the same care and commitment to clients and staff, said Lieut-Colonel Rod Carey (Territorial Secretary for Programme).

‘We are delighted that all affected HomeCare staff and clients can transfer to VisionWest,’ said Lieut-Colonel Carey. ‘Clients and staff will not be significantly affected by the change, with clients retaining the same support workers and enjoying the same high standard of care.’

Staff transferring to VisionWest will retain their current pay rates, employment conditions and leave balances.

The reason for the sale is that The Salvation Army has decided to more closely focus on its core clients—those struggling with deeprooted poverty or acute distress, helping them achieve independence and greater opportunity for themselves and their families.

Exciting 60-Year Celebrations in Papua New Guinea

The sale does not mean The Salvation Army’s commitment to older New Zealanders is lessened. It is investing $23 million in social housing aimed primarily at providing affordable, comfortable and long-term housing to older New Zealanders on limited incomes.

Programmes to support these tenants to ensure they do not become socially isolated or neglected are being developed and piloted. The Salvation Army has some 310 such tenants and this number will grow.

Other existing support services for older New Zealanders living in the community are growing and other services will be developed as needs are identified.

During recent contract negotiations between HomeCare and the Bay of Plenty District Health Board, The Salvation Army made a commitment that it would not sell its Bay of Plenty HomeCare branch.

The sale of Northern HomeCare branches goes through on 29 August, following a two-week consultation period with staff. Feedback from staff was very positive, with 130 staff attending 12 consultation meetings.

VisionWest will operate its expanded home care business under the name of VisionWest Baptist HomeCare.

The New Zealand Faith Community Nurses Association will be celebrating those ‘called to care’ next month.

The association’s annual conference will be returning to the site where the organisation was founded 13 years ago, to mark the theme of being ‘called to care’.

Hemaima Hughes, President of the National Council of Maori Nurses and Linda Beebe from Southland Hospital will be the key speakers.

The work of the association was recognised this year when member Elaine Tyrrell received the Queen’s Service Medal for her role in working with many other Christian nurses, including many Salvationists, to develop this nursing speciality in New Zealand.

Those in nursing or ministry who wish to enrol for the conference—at the NMDHB Seminar Centre, Braemar campus opposite Nelson hospital from 10-11 September—can find further details on the NZFCNA website: www.faithcommunitynursing.nz.

GAZETTE Appointment Effective 18 July: Mjr Glenys Heese, Assistant Senior Services Coordinator, New Lynn Corps.

Effective 2 August: Mjr Terry Heese, Pastoral Assistant, New Lynn Corps; Mjr Mel Impey, Court Officer, Waitakere District Court.

We acknowledge the ministry of Mjrs Francis and Ailsie Roulston who are concluding Appointments in Retirement at New Lynn Corps on 31 July and thank them for their extended service.

Effective 22 August: Mjr Andrew Hay, Project Officer, Addiction, Supportive Accommodation and Reintegration Services; Mjr Sue Hay, Director, Northland Bridge.

leaders, invited politicians and prominent community leaders. The Hon Isaac Waigavara—the first Salvationist Member of Parliament in the country—praised the work of the Army and testified to his faith, sharing that his work enables him to worship in many different corps (churches).

The men’s prayer breakfast, women’s rally and youth praise meeting were exciting events, full of music, with both traditional and contemporary dancing. Brightly-coloured costumes and music drew large crowds of passersby who stopped to hear God’s message.

Hundreds of men, women and young people moved forward to pray at each event, in response to the Bible messages.

The children’s rally began with a spectacular march-past of 500 children, who saluted the General and shouted their divisional war cry.

The march of witness that followed was a demonstration of the strength of The Salvation Army in the north of Papua New Guinea, as more than 1000 Salvationists proudly marched through the town, stopping traffic and drawing crowds. A local boy on a horse agreed to lead the march, holding high the territorial flag for the entire two kilometres of the march. He has since joined the youth group.

Large crowds gathered to hear the final message and be challenged to receive God’s living water. An offering was collected to support The Salvation Army in the Solomon Islands.

Leaving Goroka, the General and Commissioner Cox headed to Port Moresby, the capital of PNG, for the Southern Congress. Many people travelled by boat or truck, with some even walking considerable distances to be part of the celebrations. A group of Salvationists and friends from Popondetta walked the 60-mile Kokoda track for eight days—carrying a five-month-old baby—before reaching Port Moresby.

The international leaders were welcomed by three different cultural groups as well as children from Boroko Primary School. The General challenged the congregation to experience the presence of God by choosing to think on the good and positive things God gives them.

The General and Commissioner Cox met with the Red Shield Advisory Board, which comprises 10 of the most influential businessmen and women in the country. They also visited The Salvation Army’s House of Hope, where care is provided to children affected by HIV/AIDS, women who suffer domestic violence and sex workers. During this visit the local media took the opportunity to interview the General.

At a men’s rally, the General challenged the congregation of 400 to open their hearts to the moving of the Holy Spirit, surrender everything to God and serve him wholeheartedly. During the women’s rally, Commissioner Silvia Cox encouraged the women to allow Jesus to fill their lives with his joy.

The week-long celebrations included items from a combined timbrel brigade, creative dance, drama, contemporary music, singing, traditional dance, and mini musicals. The march of witness, including musicians and timbrelists, was a spectacularly colourful demonstration of strength, as multiple Salvation Army flags flew resplendently in the strong breeze at the head of a procession of hundreds of Salvationists, led by the PNG Police Force.

The General and Commissioner Cox took the salute as the streets were filled with Salvationists and friends, adding to the massive crowd that had gathered for the open-air witness.

18 | WarCry 06 August 2016

Mission Matters | 19

LEADERSHIP LINKS

Can you identify as a blood and fire servant?

Recently I purchased some new uniform shirts to smarten my appearance. I noticed they’ve been restyled, with the Salvation Army Red Shield replacing the stylised words ‘The Salvation Army’. I’ve never really been into brands. Proudly wearing a Chevrolet t-shirt and a pair of Levis jeans as a teenager was about as close as I got to being brand conscious.

The Red Shield is a great brand that’s widely recognised by the public. In 1915, Colonel Walter Peacock, a Canadian officer, changed the original silver shield into red and used it in the trenches in France. It was adopted worldwide soon after and is now a recognised international brand.

When people see the Red Shield, I guess they think of a group of caring Christian people reaching out to vulnerable people with acts of love and compassion. And they’d be right!

Every day, from Kaitaia to Invercargill and across the beautiful islands of Fiji and Tonga, thousands of people come to us trusting we will help them in their time of need.

Now, as I was admiring my new shirt, the Holy Spirit whispered to me: ‘Rod, people aren’t just looking at the Red Shield brand, they’re looking at the person wearing it.’ And so a couple of questions ran through my mind: How well do I embody the hope and love the Shield represents? Do I go out of my way to seek and to save the lost?

Then I spotted the other Salvation Army brand on my epaulettes and tie. The Crest is an amazing symbol and our first brand. It was designed by Captain William Ebdon in 1878, with the later addition of a crown. Today, the Red Shield is our publicfacing brand, while the Crest is used more as an internal and personal symbol of our Christian faith. It reminds us of who we serve and how we minister in Christ’s name.

As I continued to study the Crest in the mirror, my eyes were drawn to the cross at its centre, with the ‘S’ for ‘salvation’ curled around it. I read the words ‘Blood and Fire’ and thanked God for the blood of Jesus that cleanses from sin and the fire of the Holy Spirit that empowers for service. I glanced at the crossed swords and was reminded we are an army waging war against sin and evil. Then I pondered the radiant sun representing the fire of the Sprit and the seven ‘gospel shots’ reminding us of the truth of God’s word. Finally, I looked at the crown, which assures me that one day I will receive the crown of life if I remain faithful.

Again, the Holy Spirit whispered to me: Are you preaching the Blood and Fire? Are you giving your best in the Salvation War? Do you hold fast to the Word of Truth?

So I guess you could say I’ve been branded. And you can be too. Whether it’s by wearing the uniform, witness wear or even a Salvation Army badge, you can identify as a blood and fire servant of the Lord as you go about witnessing for Jesus.

Why not check out the latest Salvation Army apparel today at Salvationists Resources (www.salvationarmy.org.nz/shop)?

Colonel Rod Carey Territorial Secretary for Programme

BY ALASTAIR KENDREW

Accepted for Training MESSENGERS OF COMPASSION SESSION —NGĀ KĀRERE O TE AROHANUI (2017–2018) Ivo and Heather Pyper (Far North Corps) I (Ivo) became a Christian at the age of 14 at the Napier Salvation Army. I have two sons from a previous marriage, Jacob (16) and Harry (13). I also have a step-son, Noah Sunkel (12). My wife Heather and I have been married 10 years this October and have three children together, Esther (8), Autumn (5) and Charlie (20 months).

I’ve had various paid and unpaid roles within The Salvation Army over the years. But not in a million years would I have thought I would be heading down the path of Salvation Army officership!

Heather and I currently live in Kaitaia, which I love and had hoped to stay in for a very long time. However, the Lord calls me to follow him, and the implications of that call sometimes defy my own logic and understanding. I trust in God and for whatever he has in store for our family.

I (Heather) was brought up in a Christian family with Salvation Army officer parents. I became a Christian as a child, but stepped into a ‘real’ relationship with my Heavenly Father in my late teens.

I have a passion for ministry to other mums and have started a coffee group in Kaitaia. I also love music and am enjoying being part of the music team at the corps.

I always felt a sense of calling to be an officer, but also wondered when the timing would line up. God had it sorted obviously! I’m nervous, but also excited to step out in faith in this next part of our journey.

Following the Call An officer is a senior soldier who has responded to a calling from God to devote all their time and energies to the service of God.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST Speak to your local Divisional Candidates Secretary or talk to your corps officer.

Go to www salvationarmy.org.nz/officership for more info

Taking it Personally What happens when leaders stop reporting ‘ministry news’ and start sharing news from their own lives?

Late last year, I had the privilege of spending an amazing few days at North Point Community Church in Atlanta. North Point is a ‘mega church’ led by Pastor Andy Stanley—and with approximately 30,000 people attending each weekend, it has facilities and programmes to dream of. The whole weekend, I spent my time going ‘wow’, yet, in all of my tours, experiences and conversations with various staff and leaders, one conversation stands out.

It was a conversation about their new focus on ‘taking it personally’. Previously, at their staff meetings, everyone at North Point would share great stories from their environments, about events held, ministries working well, and lives being changed through a relationship with Jesus. And everyone would clap and feel good about the ministry, before moving on to the next report.

But now they’re doing something different. Instead of providing ‘ministry’ reports, leaders are being asked to provide ‘personal’ reports.

They’re sharing stories of their own friends; what steps they’re taking with those friends, and how others can pray for them. This has raised the level of accountability enormously and is making a massive cultural difference. It got me thinking, when was the last time I was asked for a personal report, and what difference would it make in The Salvation Army if we added similar accountability to our gatherings?

More recently, I attended an Organic Outreach seminar at The Street City Church in Wellington. One of the principles introduced is what was called the ‘One Degree Rule’. The premise is that every follower of Jesus has a current outreach temperature that impacts the way we interact with those who are far from God—from ‘cold’ (no interest) to ‘on fire’ (can’t tell enough people about Jesus).

Scoring our outreach temperature on a scale of 1–10, the One Degree Rule simply suggests that no matter where we are, we should all try regularly to increase our temperature by just one degree, to make us more effective. Interestingly, most of their ideas on how to raise your temperature seemed to be well covered by the North Point concept of taking it personally—setting in place environments where you share personal stories, celebrate successes, and help those around you also turn things up a degree.

At Johnsonville Corps, we’re trialling a new Kids Church format for our intermediate school-aged children. While at the Organic Outreach Seminar, I sat next to the Children’s Pastor from The Street and asked about what they’re doing with their intermediate school kids. To cut a long story short, I turned up a few weeks later with some

of our leaders to check it out.

The Street has Sunday morning services at 9 am and 11 am, so their entire children’s ministry team meets together at 8:20 am for prayer and to discuss the plan for the morning. After a quick game with building blocks, we formed groups of 3–4 people to talk about the next block we wanted to invest in the children for whom we were responsible. Nice.

But then came a clanger. We were asked to share what we had been reading about in our Bibles that week, and what we felt God was currently teaching us. It had been a bad week for me. I had a major decision to make and felt frustrated at what I perceived to be a lack of an answer from God; I hadn’t felt like reading my Bible that week, so hadn’t. Why did this question have to come to me today?! I shared honestly where I was at, and everyone said they understood before we moved politely on to talking about who we were praying for. I went home and made sure the next day that I read my Bible.

We were asked to share what we had been reading about in our Bibles … and what we felt God was currently teaching us.

In October, we’re launching a new Mission Plan for the territory.

The recent consultation process asked for ideas on how to introduce the two proposed practices of Christ-like living and integrated mission. The most common response for both practices was personal accountability—leading by example, walking the talk, and modelling these practices to others.

I wonder what would happen if we were to add ‘taking it personally’ into our group life? If all ministry teams and small groups included a time when we each shared about our current outreach temperature and what we were doing to tell others about Jesus? If we asked people at our staff and one-on-one meetings what God was currently talking to them about? Done in the right way, I’m sure this would lead to spiritual growth as well as more personal outreach.

It seems to me that North Point and The Street are ‘taking it personally’, and they are both enjoying sustained periods of congregational growth. Could the two things be related?

20 | WarCry 06 August 2016

Glenys Fairhurst reflects on a season of loss, encouraging readers that it is possible to experience hope in times of despair.

The storm that distressed the disciples hit suddenly, leaving them struggling in overwhelming circumstances (Matthew 8:24; Mark 4:37; Luke 8:23).

Times of despair can arrive as a result of accident, sudden death, separation, divorce, illness, misadventure, or violence. Christians don’t have things easier than non-believers. The gospel writers’ placement

Behavioural reactions: social needs Strong, capable, experienced fishermen lashed out at Jesus, accusing him of lack of compassion when things were getting out of their control (Mark 4:38; Matthew 8:25). Today’s strong, capable believers may uncharacteristically take out their anger on those closest to them. Unfairness, the need to protest and the search for meaning may emerge as questions of ‘why?’ or ‘how do I cope?’ Creating a safe non-judgmental place to express hurt is a gift the Church can give a questioning population drowning in doubt.

The disciples weren’t aware of the depth of resources available to them in Jesus, but by calming the storm, Jesus reveals his authority and his presence. Even if they are of little faith, he steps in to do powerful things on their behalf.

When our personal strength has ebbed, resources of courage and faith can rise to the surface. However, if these don’t return until the tide comes in then solitude can be helpful—or the opposite, interactions with those who can help to carry forward and sail on.

Socialising and sharing with others can be a life-preserver when feeling alone. This requires being able to say ‘yes’ to some forms of support and a guilt-free ‘no!’ to more draining sources.

Mayne suggests: ‘It may be a cliché that the most valuable lessons we have to learn come from our times of suffering, rather than from times of contentment, but it is probably true. Only an illusory religion offers a false hope of divine protection for those who belong to the right club. Many Christians discover in the face of grave illness or sudden grief that for a while their faith in God may make it harder, rather than easier, to come to terms with the experience; but in time a deep trust comes, which is based on the conviction that there is a ground on which to hold firm.’

Hospice founder Cicely Saunders once asked a patient what he

chiefly looked for in those who were caring for him. He replied, ‘For someone to look as if they are trying to understand me.’ He didn’t expect the impossible, just for an effort to empathise with how he felt and what he was going through.

The Message version of 2 Corinthians 1:4 reads, ‘God comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us.’

When my husband died suddenly, did I feel like rejoicing in the experience? At the time, no! Since then, as other storms have disrupted my family, we have each added our own personal layers of loss at what might have been.

Last year, as I stood with my youngest daughter and her husband when hospital staff terminated life-support for their infant son, I was able to be grateful that as a family we had previously survived seasons of grief with the confidence that we had been schooled to get through this new level of hurt. Did I rejoice that my grandson died? Of course not! Yet as I then ministered to friends who, after years of infertility and a successful pregnancy, delivered a perfectly formed full-term still-born, I was able to appreciate that I had been prepared with a knowledge of required procedures, and as I had coped with doing my grandchild’s funeral, I was strengthened to honour this precious little one with a significant ceremony even in the midst of unanswerable questions and emotional pain.

Samuel Coleridge said, ‘The light which experience gives is a lantern on the stern, which shines only on the waters behind us.’ Max Lucado suggests, ‘Lean on God’s people. Be a barnacle on the boat of God’s church.’ And David Runcorn encourages drawing ‘near to each other, to move to each other’s pain, to stumble in each other’s darkness. And in the void, in the eye of the storm, we dare to trust that Christ hangs there too, in our midst, becoming all that we are enduring.’

Emotional reactions: personal needs The disciples showed fear when they felt out of their depth, protesting Jesus didn’t understand the extent of their predicament (Mark 4:40). God designed emotions: healthy shame, sexuality, disgust, curiosity, happiness, anger, sadness and fear, for the purpose of human sensitivity, protection and release. When expressed and acknowledged, emotions are a natural process.

Diminished physical condition and emotional turmoil combined to attack the disciples’ faith. Afterwards, they received the gift of peace through the words of Jesus (Matthew 8:26, Mark 4:39, Luke 8:24).

The passing of time and additional perspectives help emotions to adjust healthily.

faith as ‘thin’, yet even in their weakness Jesus heard their lament and miraculously solved the problem. His awareness of ‘little faith’ is ‘a challenge to fidelity addressed to the disciples, not only those on the once storm-tossed Sea of Galilee, but those involved in the stormy existence of the Church itself. There is no need to fear, for the Lord is near.’

I observed my sister’s strong faith at work when her young husband died after months of illness, and after her teenage son was killed as she comforted the parents of the convicted driver. Memory of her witness of Christian hope in the midst of grief have kept me afloat through my own periods of loss.

In Isaiah 43:2, God promises, ‘When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.’

When things begin to get dark, Jesus says, ‘Let’s keep going. You’ll get through this’ (Mark 4:35).

Mayne writes that being ‘Church’ means ‘pointing to the God who not only understands and shares the times of darkness but also lies on the other side of the dark.’ The world may appear a dark place of oppression, poverty and disease, yet ‘the horrors of war and the violent acts of the wicked don’t abolish beauty, destroy art, overthrow truth or nullify love and compassion.’

The Church is to witness to the nearness of God with a resounding echo that Christian faith reactions and spiritual needs are called to exhibit hope in times of despair, like the orchestra on the Titanic who reportedly played ‘Nearer My God To Thee’. The Church, this unsinkable Boat, is filled with followers aware of the calming presence of God as they weather the stormy seas of human existence. Hope keeps the boat afloat. Hope keeps the Church sailing. Hope in Christ can keep people from sinking in despair.

My intention is to remain in the Boat at peace in the presence of Jesus, testifying, in the words of songwriter Ruth Tracy: And when care and sorrow meet me Pain and grief and dark distress Still I cry: Oh give me Jesus He alone can help and bless. * Personal stories used with permission.

Living as people of hope in a time of despair

Jesus continually challenged mainstream perspectives on suffering and pain. He said that he came to give us life in all its fullness (Jn 10:10).

But he also said that it was those who are poor in spirit and those that mourn who will be blessed (Mt 5:5-6). He said that in him we would have peace.

He also said that we would face trials and sorrows of many kinds (Jn 16:33). The papers included in this journal address a range of topics relating to suffering including disability and dementia, the experiences of asylum seekers, war and terrorism, despair and lamentation. Each paper is aimed to provided an opportunity to think deeply about what it is to suffer and yet have life.

Faith reactions: spiritual needs ISBN 978-0-9944644-3-9

In Luke 8:25, Jesus asked his disciples, ‘Where is your faith?’ They had expected the worst. Some translations describe the disciples’

This article is abridged with permission from a paper given at the 2015 Thought Matters conference.

5 Living as people of hope in a time of despair

Physical reactions: practical needs

of the story of Jesus calming the storm follows days of teaching, ministering and healing. Jesus’ physical need was for rest before the next onslaught (Mark 4:36,38; Matthew 8:24; Luke 8:23).

Counsellors advise taking time out when under stress and trying to eat and sleep regularly, for the human body can without warning react unexpectedly with insomnia, headaches, weight loss or gain, lack of appetite, lowered immunity, nausea and/or pain.

In Mark 6:48, the disciples battled to rescue their ship. Jesus watched their efforts and waited for their response. He then walked to them across the water. In troubled times, peace can result from an awareness of Jesus’ closeness.

Doing what is physically possible has value, as well as asking for help with things beyond our capabilities. Direction and guidance from capable people can help us navigate practical tasks that may seem insurmountable when we are swamped by stress’s inability to think clearly. Empathetic caring expressed in practical ways can be of huge blessing to those recovering from trauma.

Th ught Matters

While on bereavement leave three years ago, I travelled on a ferry across New Zealand’s Cook Strait, notorious for rough seas. I overheard a tourist ask a crew member for help saying, ‘I’ve lost my husband!’ I felt like shouting, ‘You haven’t lost your husband!’, because I’d seen her earlier on the other side of the boat and heard her tell her husband to meet there.

My heightened sensitivity of feeling alone during the storm inwardly screamed, ‘I have lost my husband!’ Then an awareness of peace calmed me with the assurance that my husband is in God’s care.

I know where he is, he is not lost. This nautical experience set me thinking about sailing through grief without sinking even when waves of exhausting emotion engulf.

Michael Mayne writes in The Enduring Melody: ‘Our human fear of dying doesn’t invalidate the Christian belief in resurrection, however unimaginable another form of life may be; but it does make the point that fear of the dark and the unknown are common to us all and that without such questioning faith, hope and trust would not be as costly or as meaningful as they are. In the light of the Holocaust, the daily violence and scandalous poverty, the death of a loved one, or the secret destructive nature of the cancer cell, hope and trust can be very costly indeed.’

I sought a biblical perspective for staying afloat while getting to the other side of life’s storms. In Matthew 8:23–27, where Jesus stills the storm, Matthew interprets discipleship with reference to the little ship of the Church. Likewise, when Jesus walks on water, Mark (6:47–51) can be seen as portraying the Church (the Boat) as safe in its mission only when Jesus was with it. Jesus has taken the initiative in leading his disciples into the boat and sending them into the storm (Mark 6:45).

For modern-day disciples tossed on the waves in the Church Boat of the present, application can be made of being calmed by Jesus’ presence regardless of where he sends us because of his intention of getting us through to the other side of tempestuous experiences, even ‘when sorrows like sea billows roll’.

Every incidence of grief and loss is a unique process that has no timetable, yet there are common patterns of physical, behavioural and emotional reactions, combined with practical, social and personal needs.

Soul Food | 21

The Salvation Army Thought Matters Australia Eastern Territory, Australia Southern Territory, New Zealand Fiji and Tonga Territory

Th ught

Matters Living as people of hope in a time of despair A Christian response to evil & suffering

9 780994 464439 >

Collected papers from the conference, with its theme ‘Living as People of Hope in a Time of Despair’ have just been released in New Zealand. Email thought_matters@nzf. salvationarmy.org to request a copy.

22 | WarCry 06 August 2016

CALENDAR

OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS

AUGUST 8–11: Officers Fellowship / Midland Division 12–14: Missional Leadership Hui / Booth College of Mission 12–14: Southern Division Kids Camp (Timaru and North) 19–20: Central Division Youth Conference / Wellington 22–24: Lead to Grow Conference / Wellington 23–25: Re-reading the Scriptures / Booth College of Mission 28: Self Denial Appeal Sunday

SEPTEMBER 30 Aug–1 Sept: Personal Leadership / Booth College of Mission 19–22: 12 Steps Course (Part 1) / Booth College of Mission 29 Sept–2 Oct: Now is the Time Congress / Wellington

PRAYER FOCUS

Commissioners Robert (Territorial Commander) and Janine Donaldson (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 21–25 August: General’s Consultative Council, Singapore (TC) 27–28 August: Wellington, Wellington South Corps Colonels Willis Howell (Chief Secretary) and Barbara Howell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries) 19–20 August: Central Youth Conference 28 August: Tawa Corps

Wellington South Corps 1891–2016 Celebrating 125 years in the Newtown Community 26–28 August 2016 Guest Leaders: Commissioners Robert and Janine Donaldson

Please pray for: East City, Far North (Kaitaia), Feilding, Flaxton, Foxton and Fua‘amotu Corps, Salvation Army Community Ministries staff, and The Salvation Army in Nigeria.

REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN

Thought Matters 2016 FRIDAY 14 OCT, 7 PM TO SUNDAY 16 OCT, 1:30 PM MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Thought matters is an annual conference organised by The Salvation Army Tri-Territorial Theological Forum from Australia Eastern, Australia Southern, and the NZ, Fiji and Tonga territories.

This year’s conference explores the definition of ‘salvation’. Register by August 31 for early-bird rate $AUD 130 (full fee after 31 August is $AUD 150).

Meals are provided for Saturday lunch, dinner and Sunday lunch.

Register your interest: e: wellingtonsouth.corps@gmail.com

Do you know these people?

CONROY, Kevin Brian, born 1958 in Invercargill EMMERSON, Graham Denis (pre-adoption name), born 1956 in Greymouth JOHNSTON, Matthew Peter, born 1992 in Dunedin LUCAS, Desmond Ralph (pre-adoption name), born 1934 in Auckland (see photo —inscription on the back reads ‘Desmond aged three taken 18/4/1937’) WILLIAMS, Reginald Noel, Born 1939 in Christchurch

Help us find these missing people and bring peace of mind to their families p: (04) 382 0710 | e: family family_tracing@nzf.salvationarmy.org salvationarmy.org.nz/familytracing

Registration fee does not include accommodation. Some accommodation at Catherine Booth College campus: +61 (0)3 9847 5400. Discounted rates at the Golden Pebble Hotel, Wantirna South : +61 (0)3 9837 8800. Mention ‘The Salvation Army Conference’ for special room rates. Scholarships announced: details on www.salvationarmy.org.nz/ThoughtMatters2016 Register for Thought Matters at www.trybooking.com/MBBP

Find freedom and move forward in God’s blessing and power

Make your life count!

Bring friends so they can know God

Men’s Events

www.promisekeepers.nz

CHRISTCHURCH 19-20 August | WELLINGTON 16-17 September | AUCKLAND 7-8 October

Fun4Kids | 23

What stays in the corner, but travels around the world? A STAMP What is the fastest country in the world? RUSH-A! What is the coldest country in the world? CHILI What is in the middle of India?

THE LETTER ‘D’ Where do you find an ocean without water? ON A MAP Knock knock, who’s there?

KENYA Kenya who?

KENYA THINK OF ANYTHING MORE FUN THAN GEOGRAPHY?

3 Spo t 1 ences Differ read it ‘Anyone who does what my Father in heaven wants is my brother or sister or mother.’ Matthew 12:50 (NIRV) We are God’s family when we do God’s work and follow Jesus. Which means we have family all over the world. That’s so cool!

So what do we want to do for our family? We want to pray for them, we want to help them, and we want to give money to help them out even more.

At the moment, grownups are saving to help our Salvation Army family overseas. This is for our Self Denial Appeal, which happens every year.

But us kids can get involved too! We can help by not asking for anything expensive and by telling our parents that we’re

okay about going without something so they can have some extra money to send overseas. And we can even think of ways to raise some money through some projects of our own.

It’s great that God blesses us with enough so that we can share with the family we love.

let’s pray Dear Jesus, I love being in your family and that people who love you around the world do amazing things to help others! Help me and my family give to the Self Denial Appeal. Amen.