FAITH IN ACTION  10 AUGUST 2019 | Issue 6723 | $1.50
Parting with our money Flipping the script on health and fitness
25 years of working with Wattie's Saying 'I do' ... again
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WAR CRY The Salvation Army
New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Andy & Yvonne Westrupp | GENERAL Brian Peddle | FOUNDERS William
& Catherine Booth
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. MANAGING EDITOR Ingrid Barratt | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Matt Gillon | STAFF WRITERS Captain Jules Badger, Major Shar Davis, Louise Parry | PROOF READING Major Jill
Gainsford, Vivienne Hill OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box
6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Fax (04) 382 0716, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department, Phone
(04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT www.makeready.nz | PAPER Sumo Offset
is an environmentally responsible paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) FSC® certified Mixed Source pulp from responsible sources and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System.
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People of influence Over the past couple editions of War Cry, I’ve been reminded of the powerful influence others can have in our lives. Major Judith Bennett was my corps officer when I was a teenager, the candidates secretary when I was accepted for college, and on college staff when I was commissioned. I have observed and benefited from her hands-on leadership over the years. Vikki Stevenson—this edition’s feature story—was my Junior Soldier leader along with her husband Chris. They were incredibly influential in my early days in The Salvation Army and taught me so much about Jesus. They always made me feel welcome (even after I left the corps). Our paths have crossed over the years, particularly the past eight years, and I’ve been blessed countless times by her encouragement and example. This edition also features a tribute to kaumātua Tex Clark, a wonderful man I had the privilege of getting to know during my time in Hamilton and through Māori Ministry. He was a man of great mana, always encouraging me with my te reo and my attempts to gain a better understanding of tikanga Māori. Three very different people, in different seasons of my life, have all helped to shape who I am today. We are all people of influence, present in various seasons of other people’s lives. What kind of impact are you having on others? How are others benefiting from your presence? We might never know the full extent of our influence—but we can at least choose whether it is positive or negative. Shar Davis Assistant Territorial Secretary for Communications
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 136 years | Issue 6723 ISSN 0043-0242 (print), ISSN 2537-7442 (online) Please pass on or recycle this magazine Read online www.issuu.com/salvationarmynzftwarcry
www.salvationarmy.org.nz SalvationArmyNZFTS @SalvationArmyNZ salvationarmynzfts
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Church isn’t some community you join or some place you arrive. Church is what happens when someone taps you on the shoulder and whispers in your ear, Pay attention, this is holy ground; God is here. Rachel Held Evans
Ephesians 5:2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Epeha 5:2 Haere hoki i runga i te aroha, kia pērā me te Karaiti i aroha ki a tātou, i tuku i a ia anō mō tātou hei whakahere, hei patunga tapu ki te Atua, hei kakara pai.
Kwanele from Qwe Qwe, South Africa features in this year's Self Denial Appeal.
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t’s that time of the year again! Don’t panic, I’m not talking about Christmas—although that will sneak up on us now we’re in the second half of the year—but it’s The Salvation Army’s 2019 Self Denial Appeal. And just like Christmas, it’s all about giving. This year’s theme is ‘Be the Change’, which is a deeply personal call to action. And the action we are called to participate in is giving to our Army’s global mission in Ecuador, South Africa, India and Malaysia. So, yes, I’m talking about parting with our cold hard cash! But here’s the cool part—while our giving will certainly be life-changing for the recipients, giving also changes us. When we contemplate giving, we are forced to take a good long hard look at ourselves and consider our desires, motives, and what’s truly important to us. Have you ever tried to track your spouse’s movements via internet banking? Over the years my husband certainly has! There may have been the odd occasion when I’ve arrived home and been asked where I’ve been, only to reply curtly, ‘Just to Countdown and Kmart’. But Mat’s a smart guy and not one for having the wool easily pulled over his eyes—‘Oh, really Jules? Are you sure you didn’t make a few other stops along the way, like at Starbucks and Everlast Nails? Or was that someone else using our joint account for coffee and a mani-pedi?!’ There’s no hiding from the truth about how I spend my money—the facts are right there in my transaction history! We may delude ourselves and say that something isn’t that important to us, but the reality is that our spending is an excellent
barometer for measuring what we really love the most. And if I’m honest, even as a Christ follower who is called to love God and love others, sometimes my first love isn’t God, and it isn’t others. I confess there are frequently times when my first love is myself—my needs and my wants. And while some of those are legitimate in terms of my financial responsibilities to my family, and necessary for self-care—ok so maybe a mani-pedi isn’t essential—nonetheless, the invitation to give money away provides a clean lens through which to see areas of our lives that may have become out of kilter with our values and beliefs. Giving is a loving invitation from God to reflect and acknowledge that there are things to which we cling or depend upon—things we have allowed to sit on the throne of our lives and crowd out the Lordship of Christ. Things we could in fact deny ourselves, so that others in real need may benefit through our giving. So, as we take some time in the coming weeks to consider the needs of those around the world presented to us during this year’s Self Denial Appeal, the focus on self has a chance to shift a little. There’s space for the grace of God and his goodness to come alive again in our hearts and minds. And it’s this shift in focus—this change within us—that is at the heart of the Self Denial Appeal. Together we can ‘Be the Change’ as we consider what we can deny ourselves, so others in real need don’t have to. BY JULES BADGER
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Comedy Late Night (M) Directed by Nisha Ganatra
There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up. John Holmes
Whānau Mentoring Programme Pilot
Starring Emma Thompson, Late Night tells of an ageing television talk show host trying to keep her job as ratings fall. Thanks to the arrival of the only female on her writing staff, things begin to turn around as she is given licence to broadcast her own take on issues. It’s refreshing to see a woman in her 50s starring as a confident, somewhat ruthless, employer, but the film does at times become a little clichéd in its treatment of her transformation. Some good lines, and written and co-starred by comedian Mindy Kaling. Although you’ll see most of the best lines in the trailer, I’m recommending this film. (Reviewed by Louise Parry)
A pilot mentoring programme run by The Salvation Army in the Bay of Plenty has been such a success that plans are afoot to make it a permanent fixture.
QUIKQUIZ
1 What is the capital city of Greenland? 2 What location has the top 10 busiest McDonald’s restaurants in the world? 3 What is ‘nyctophobia’ the fear of? 4 What is one of the collective nouns for worms? 5 W ho called Jesus ‘Rabboni’? Answers on page 22 4 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
The Whānau Mentoring Programme is modelled on similar schemes already running in Waitākere and Gisborne, and adapted for the local community with funding by Tauranga’s Bay Trust. The programme saw a dedicated mentor walk along-side families for several months, with the aim of empowering whānau to reach the goals set by participants themselves. The success of the pilot was partly down to the fact that clients are the ones who decided which goals to aspire to. The Whānau Mentor was able to hear about their hopes and fears in an informal setting, spending time with family members. In its year-long trial, a Whānau Mentor met with at-risk families and assessed their needs. Social workers are often stretched for time; the mentor is more available to work with whānau members to achieve their goals. ‘The Whānau Mentor took the time needed to build a relationship that is based on genuine care and understanding,’ Tauranga Community Ministries manager Davina Plummer says. The pilot included 15 whānau—many of whom had already engaged with some form of Salvation Army support—who were experiencing a range of challenges, from domestic violence to solo parenting and concerns over truancy. Common themes among many of the mothers involved in the pilot was a serious lack of confidence and a feeling of hopelessness. The programme’s aims are: • increased resilience and a positive sense of self • increased confidence and self-esteem • more connected with family and children • healthier, happier homes and increased wellbeing • increased involvement in community. Whānau mentor Malia Soifua Tupou Pearson (bottom left) and Davina Plummer, Tauranga Community Ministries manager (bottom right), with programme participants.
WARCRY INHISTORY It’s hard to remember life before mobile phones. This picture from War Cry on 24 April 1926 captures the moments after a cable was towed to shore at Lyall Bay, Wellington, to connect the North and South Islands by telephone. The cable ship Tutanekai can be seen in the background.
TOPFIVE Dunedin’s Baldwin Street lost its Guinness World Record for the steepest street, so we decided to see what other records New Zealand has. 5 Mike Heard completed 430 bungy jumps off the Auckland Harbour Bridge within 24 hours (he broke the previous record within the first 4½ hours).
4 RJ’s Licorice celebrated its 21st Source: Booth College of Mission birthday by creating Heritage and Archives Centre the world’s largest liquorice allsort— measuring 1.001m x 0.768m x 0.994m and weighing in at 1105.5kg.
3 The largest game of Chinese whispers, involving 1792 people, took place in Tauranga to celebrate Hearing Awareness Week 2017. 2 Stefan Paladin ate eight 10cm sausages in one minute, giving him something to brag about. 1 Ever tried solving a Rubik’s Cube? Ever run a marathon? Blair Williamson did both, solving the cube 254 times while running the Christchurch International Marathon in 2017.
Thai Pumpkin Coconut Soup 1 Tbsp coconut oil
3 cups chicken or vege stock
1 large onion, finely diced
1 can of coconut cream
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tsp fish sauce
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Juice of a lemon or lime
1 Tbsp of red or green Thai curry paste (optional)
1 tsp lemon grass (optional)
1 butternut pumpkin, peeled, de-seeded and chopped into 2cm cubes
1 cup fresh coriander, leaves and stalks Salt and pepper to taste
In a large pan or wok, heat coconut oil. Cook onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for a couple more minutes. Add curry paste to the pan, frying for a minute, and then add chopped pumpkin pieces followed by stock. Bring to the boil and cook until pumpkin is soft and beginning to break apart. Once pumpkin is cooked, add the coconut cream, fish sauce, lemon or lime juice, lemongrass, coriander, salt and pepper and cook for a few more minutes, then blend (either in the pot with a stick-blender or in a food processor). Season with salt and pepper as desired. Source: bepure.co.nz
SALLIEOF THEWEEK Shauna Goble, Central Taranaki Corps Shauna Goble is a woman of faith who serves on the Central Taranaki Leadership Team, and is actively involved in the life of the corps. Shauna can be found volunteering at the Family Store, helping at Community Ministries, assisting the tech team for worship, and helping organise corps events. She’s also a team member of the ‘Mini Rockers’ preschool music group where she warmly welcomes families, helps out in the music time circle, serves morning tea and gives out plenty of high fives and smiles. The children adore Shauna and she loves them like a grandma. For these reasons and more, Shauna is our Sallie of the week! 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 5
Faith when life is
Vikki Stevenson (bottom left) with deaf students and their teacher after receiving a warriors welcome upon her arrival to their training centre in Guadalcanal.
Nothing prepares you for the death of your spouse, yet Vikki Stevenson knew God was with her as she had to recalibrate her life and her plans for the future ... BY SHAR DAVIS
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fragile
ikki Stevenson was born in Tīmaru to Salvationists Brian and Doreen Bennetts. She was surrounded by a strong belief in God her entire life. She can’t pinpoint her first faith experience because ‘God’s just always been there,’ says Vikki. During her childhood the family spent a few years in the North Island before moving back south to settle in Christchurch—the city Vikki has called home ever since. When she was 15 years old, a handsome young man arrived at Christchurch City Corps with his officer parents, who had been serving overseas. Christopher Manning—known to most as Chris, and to his mother as Christopher John when he was in trouble—stole Vikki’s heart. It was love at first sight for her, she admits with a giggle. It wasn’t long before Vikki and Chris started dating, and four years later they were married, just two weeks shy of her 20th birthday. Her father picked them up at the airport after their honeymoon and informed them that he and Doreen were moving to the North Island. Chris’s parents had also moved, so this meant Vikki and her brand new husband would spend their first seven years of married life on their own, without the support of family close by. Vikki and Chris have four children: Holly, Sarah, Joshua (known to most as JJ) and Hannah. When Chris pursued his childhood dream of becoming a police officer, he moved to the Police college in Porirua for his training. This meant Vikki was now solo parent to their young children for four or five months, with Chris coming home only once for two weeks during that time. Fast forward to 2005—Vikki’s parents’ 50th wedding anniversary coincided with Vikki and Chris’s 22nd anniversary. The Bennetts’ family gathered from around the country to celebrate Brian and Doreen’s special day. Chris decided to run the five kilometres and meet Vikki at church to set up for the party. Vikki recalls meeting up with Chris at the lights by Hagley Park. ‘He looked a bit stuffed then, so I said to him, “Do you want a ride?” “No, I’m fine,” he said. After Vikki had locked the hall and was walking to the shops with Hannah, she heard a loud voice yelling ‘Vikki!’. ‘I’d locked him in! He got himself locked in the men’s loos somehow and had to climb over the top of the door, and this set the alarm off,’ Vikki recalls. That was the last time Vikki and Chris would speak. Chris was jogging home, and less than a kilometre from where Vikki had last seen him, he dropped dead of a heart attack. 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 7
Vikki arrived home as two policemen walked down her driveway. ‘Oh Hannah, that’s Dad’s sergeant,’ she said. She wound down the window and the officer said, ‘We need to talk to you.’ Vikki turned to her youngest daughter and said, ‘Go and get the others, something has happened to Dad … ’ It didn’t enter her thoughts that Chris had actually died. It’s obvious that grief has no expiry date, as Vikki begins to reflect on that moment. ‘I remember every detail, the kids … ’ her voice trails off. Holly was 18, Sarah was 16, JJ was 14 and Hannah was just 12 when their father died. ‘My 18-year-old had a boyfriend at the time, he’s now her husband—so that’s nice that he knows Chris. Sarah just crumpled at my feet. JJ went off to the garage and took it out on the boxing bag. Hannah looked at me and said, “It’s okay Mum, we’ll see Daddy again someday”. Twelve years old … ,’ Vikki says reflecting on the innocence and insight of Hannah’s response as she comforted her mum in that moment.
‘IT’S OKAY MUM, WE’LL SEE DADDY AGAIN SOMEDAY.’ Vikki was once again in the role of solo parent, but this time it was for real. Chris wasn’t coming home again. Their tightknit family had to find a way forward without the funloving, people-magnet that Chris was. It would be understandable if Vikki’s faith in God was shaken as a result of Chris’s death. ‘The clearest thing I can picture is … ’ She tries to find the words to explain what happened for her. ‘Take an apricot, it’s really easy to open because you can just twist half of it off. For me, it was like half of me was gone! But [I’m] still attached to the stone … that’s how it felt. My best friend—gone! Half of me—gone! But I’m still attached to the centre, to the rock.’ The year before Chris died, Vikki’s dad had been diagnosed with bowel cancer. ‘I love my dad—we’re really close—and I had to come to terms with the fact that I could lose him. In some ways, God prepared me for death—not what I expected, but he prepared me. Dad also had two fully blocked arteries and one three-quarters blocked, Chris had just one 50 percent blocked artery— you just don’t know … ’ After Chris passed away, her friends became even more important to Vikki. ‘Nelson and Barbara, Kate, Linda, 8 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
and Dean … we did a lot of things together through that early grieving time, I would have been lost without them,’ Vikki reflects. Eventually Vikki and Dean Stevenson began dating. ‘It just grew out of friendship,’ Vikki says. ‘I had my mother and fatherin-law saying to me, “It’s time to move on”.’ Other people spoke to her about Dean and someone from church even had a dream about them. ‘It felt like a God thing,’ says Vikki. Dean has four children from his first marriage, so they became a large blended family. ‘Eight is enough,’ Vikki laughs. Both families had grown up together at Christchurch City Corps, so in some ways this helped with the new family dynamics. Vikki was employed as the corps administrator in 1998. In 2000 she trained as a budget advisor, and eventually, when the corps moved the administration from the corps building to the Hope Centre (Community Ministries), she began to do both the administration and budgeting. She became the budgeting coordinator, overseeing the budgeting services for the city. In June 2010 she was asked to help with budgeting in a wider capacity. Her time was split 50/50 between the corps and the division. When the earthquake hit in September, Vikki faced a new challenge—liquefaction. ‘It was really weird where we lived. You could go two houses to our left and two houses to our right and you’re perfectly fine, but the strip down where we were— so much liquefaction.’ Vikki says that despite the mess they were able to live in the house. ‘Some windows wouldn’t shut and some doors wouldn’t open—after every shake, or whatever, that might change.’ On the day of the February quake in 2011, Vikki was flying back from Gisborne after working. ‘There was an English woman on the plane and she was a little nervous about the earthquakes, and I’m trying to say “It’s all okay, they’re all finished”.’ She went straight to work and had an appointment with a client scheduled for 1.00pm. The quake hit at 12.55pm. ‘There were two of us in the staff room—we both stood under a different door as the windows blew in.’ The staff decided to leave the building and Vikki thought she’d just go back to her office and grab her phone. ‘The ceiling had collapsed, I couldn’t even open the door to get in,’ she recalls. The ceiling had collapsed right on top of Vikki’s desk, where she had been sitting just a few minutes earlier.
WHAT MOTIVATES ME IS TO SEE PEOPLE BE EVERYTHING GOD CREATED THEM TO BE. That was the second of four times that their house would be affected by liquefaction. They had lived in the house for about 19 months before the first earthquake struck, ‘We had another 19 months in the brokenness.’ The reality for the family was ‘a poo pod outside, a camp toilet inside that you had to empty in the poo pod outside. It was portaloos, going and finding water, filling up the bath with water and just doing what you could,’ Vikki remembers. ‘We used to go camping, so for a week or two it’s okay. I had to go to a friend’s house in another suburb to have a shower.’ Vikki was hoping their house would be orange-zoned, meaning they would be able to repair the house and stay. ‘You’re there because you like the area, and we loved our house. But, in the long run, being red-zoned was good because it meant you had to move, you had to move on, whereas other people are still living in it, even now.’ In the aftermath of the February quake, Vikki’s work took on the focus of helping to pull the Community Ministries teams across Christchurch together, to work collectively. She spent three months bringing the SAMIS team together to process all the earthquake response work, of which there was a lot. These days Vikki is fulltime with the division, involved with Positive Lifestyle Programme (PLP), budgeting and SAMIS— anything to do with CM really. ‘If there are things I can do, I will help where I can—coaching the teams on the ground, training and supporting them.’ If that wasn’t enough, Vikki has spent the past four years travelling twice a year to the Solomon Islands to provide training with Caritas (Catholic Social Services) on behalf of The Salvation Army. ‘In the Solomons they [Caritas] support rural training centres, and they’ve put together a project to upskill the rural training centres. For every dollar that Caritas puts in, the New Zealand Government matches it with four.’ The training courses were agriculture, carpentry, mechanics and leadership—quite male-dominated, so they asked the women what they’d like training in and they said budgeting. In the Solomon Islands you pay to go to school, says Vikki. ‘If
Ladies attending a training group in Honiara
you’re living off the land, you don’t have a lot of money. This course was to teach basic budgeting skills, money management, and look at ways of making money/income for the women living in rural communities and for Life Skills Teachers, so that they could train others.’ Vikki says that budgeting in the Solomons context is quite different to New Zealand. ‘You end up looking at marketing, and what you might have at your hand that could be used to generate money and income for your family.’ On her fifth visit to the country, Vikki asked if someone from The Salvation Army could join the group. She spoke with the corps officer in Honiara, who suggested the Home League secretary. The Army has since set up a couple of initiatives: sponsor children to go to school and, for every family involved, they are expected to participate in the financial capability course. Another village is starting a coconut oil business to allow them to be independent, and they too are required to do the financial capability course with the Home League secretary. The opportunity to travel to the Solomon Islands and teach people to be financially independent was an opportunity Vikki never dreamed she’d have. God has opened so many doors for ministry opportunities as she’s tried to always put him first in her life, no matter what challenges she’s faced. ‘For me, it’s just my belief in God—he just seems to take whatever happens and turn it into good. It’s not what we imagine or dream, but somehow good just seems to come out of it,’ Vikki says. ‘In our house growing up, it was always about others, so others have always been important to me. What motivates me is to see people be everything that God created them to be. Others reaching their full potential in Christ.’ Vikki’s family continues to expand, with five grandchildren within 12 months. They continue to open their home to others, and look for ways to build relationships within their community and the church family at Christchurch City. For Vikki, her life will always be lived motivated by one word: Others. 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 9
The God of Second Chances Marriages fail for all sorts of reasons—even Christian marriages. Falling in love again can be a wonderful surprise, but entering marriage a second time can be daunting, even when faith is strong and support extensive. So how do we increase the chances of success the second time around? Studies show that second marriages are high risk. But, according to Dr Karen Maudlin, while nay-sayers may assume that couples bring too much baggage into their new relationship, they forget that we all come into every new relationship with baggage. ‘Childhood, previous relationships, even relationships with siblings and friends all impact spouse selection and the ensuing relationship. The assumption that we can enter any relationship without baggage is, of course, untrue,’ she explains. Couples entering a second marriage tend to be more aware of this and begin with greater intentionality and care. ‘No matter what your age and stage of life circumstances,’ Dr Maudlin insists, ‘with extra TLC and effective communication, your second marriage can succeed.’ Here’s what you need to know second time around when children/adolescents are involved:
‘ … WITH EXTRA TLC AND EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION, YOUR SECOND MARRIAGE CAN SUCCEED.’
1. Take ‘Date Night’ seriously. Weekly date nights and weekends away are important for every marriage. Second marriages often start with the complexities of step-parenthood, so time away from the kids is vital to a strong foundation. 2. Keep Christ central. Second marriages are more likely to succeed when your spiritual life is strong and nurtured regularly. When the inevitable aggravation from being a blended family surfaces, praying together and being supported by church family can make all the difference. 3. Support the biological parent. The biological parent must take the lead with his/her children. Include the step-parent in the decision-making process about the kids from the beginning, but gradually—over one to three years—ease the step-parent into their new role. 4. Avoid outdoing the ex-spouse. Be extra careful that gifts don’t make a biological parent feel they are falling short, especially if their financial resources are stretched. Honouring your step-children’s biological parent is more likely to benefit everyone in the long run, than expensive gifts in the short term.
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5. Choose neutral accommodation. While it may seem prudent and even logical to remain in the home the children are most familiar with, memories and attitudes (baggage) that predate the new marriage are likely to become a problem. A new home with joint ownership can be a positive adventure to navigate together. 6. Insist on full financial disclosure. Established and differing values to money will require negotiation and compromise. Transparency is essential, especially if financial pressures played a part in the decline of a previous marriage. A third party ‘coach’ may be helpful in this scenario. Marriage the second time around brings with it the invitation to do things differently—more intentionally—and with an extra measure of grace, not only toward a new spouse, but for yourself. Be kind to each other, quick to forgive and slow to get angry, and remember above all else that the God of second chances is with you. Karen L. Maudlin, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist specialising in marriage and family therapy as well as a regular columnist for Christian Parenting Today. Source: TodaysChristianWoman.com
TESTIFY! Dave Blackley went to church to get out of doing chores—his life was never the same … I first got into trouble around the age of six, and then I became a petty criminal for decades—motorbikes, violence, drugs. All my youth, all my young adulthood was all spent in jail. I was 16 years old when I received my first prison sentence in 1977. When I went to jail, it was scary, but I seemed to fit in. I learnt to fight, and as soon as I had my first fight and won, I became a bully. My life revolved around crime, and the only ways that I knew to be accepted was to people-please, knock you out, or sell you drugs. So for 40 years that was the only way I knew how to get stuff. I was down and depressed—I felt so horrible—but it was starting to get worse. Eventually, I went to rehab and that’s where things started to change. I walked in and I heard this guy say, ‘Hey, what are you doing here?’ I was shocked to see someone from my past. I met that man in jail in 1979 and I knew everything about him. I knew all about the sort of lifestyle that he had lived. I said: ‘What are you doing here?’ He told me he had been clean three and a half years now. He’d gone to rehab and found a better way of life. His lifestyle had changed, of course, but there was something different about him. I wanted some of that. I wanted that clean lifestyle that he had. I wanted what he was talking about. I was at Spring Hill and I was talking to one of the guys. ‘So what happens today?’ I asked. ‘Oh you’ve got to clean up’. ‘What do you mean I have to clean up?’ ‘You’ve got to do the dusting and all that sort of stuff like mow the lawns,’ he replied. ‘You’ve gotta be joking! What are you doing?’ I asked.
I THINK: HOW GOOD WAS THAT DAY WHEN I GAVE MY HEART TO GOD, AND HOW I FELT. ‘Oh, I’m going to church, we’re going to the Sallies.’ He asked if I wanted to come. Of course I said yes—that was my way of getting out of doing chores. So I ended up going to church, and when I walked in, they didn’t want anything from me. I thought: Man I like this, I want some of this. So, I just kept coming back each week and I got to know a few more people. They still didn’t want to know what I’d done. They
didn’t want to know anything about me, apart from what God could do for me. For 40 years I’d tried to do it on my own. So, I thought, okay what can he do for me? I had a big empty hole in me and I’d never found anything to fill it. When I gave my heart to God, he filled that hole. I felt this incredible peace come over me. When I start thinking about what used to be, I think: How good was that day when I gave my heart to God, and how I felt. I pray: ‘Father, I want that back again today, please fill me with your Holy Spirit, fill me with your love. Come into my heart and rule my life.’ I just want God to fill me each day. I want to be on the front line. I want to be with the least of the lost. I want to be with those people, my people. 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 11
BY JULES BADGER
A crusader for change in the health and fitness industry, 27-yearold Conrad Goodhew is flipping the script when it comes to combating the negative impact that body image is having on the physical and mental health of young Kiwi sportsmen and women. ‘The perception that pursuing the perfect social media “before and after” shot will make us happy and healthy, must change. Young athletes need to feel confident about their health by focusing on establishing good habits that enhance their performance and support their mental health over the long term. Quick-fix diets and programmes are just messing with their heads psychologically.’
HOT OR HEALTHY? A passionate sportsman himself, Conrad slammed head first into the dangers surrounding the pursuit of the ‘hot body’ over healthy living, when a friend suggested he try the Paleo Diet. At the time, Conrad was strongly embedded in competitive rugby (even having played for Manawatū under-18s as a teenager) and was taking performance improvement seriously. ‘I was a skinny white boy from Whangārei, assuming if I did this diet I’d get big and ripped! But I quickly realised that as a performance athlete, I needed my carbohydrates. There had to be a better way, so I began seriously investigating for myself.’ Conrad is now a qualified and practicing Sports Performance Dietitian, working with young professional athletes. He also holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Sport and Exercise Nutrition, Supplementary Nutrition and Food Service Management, as well as a Masters of Dietetics. But Conrad doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to telling it like it is. ‘The influence of social media means there’s a lot of misinformation about health
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and nutrition. Everyone wants to be skinny and look good because that’s what they’re seeing everyday online. But it’s such a distorted picture. This obviously has a physiological impact as disordered eating develops— hence the psychological issues that result.’
LOVING THE PROCESS Conrad wants to see people genuinely enjoying their lives. ‘The message I’m trying to bring is about loving the process of living a healthy lifestyle. Focusing on the “before and after” shots, rather than the benefits of long-term healthy living, results in people feeling unhappy about their bodies or performance, and therefore their lives. ‘Exercise makes us feel good because it releases dopamine and endorphins—the “feel good” chemicals. But sadly, people get so focused on the end goal that exercise and nutrition become associated with the negativity of deprivation instead. Having the mindset that you can’t have treats or touch certain foods—that’s no way to live!’
OBSESSED? Conrad is especially concerned about the rise of ‘orthorexia’ among athletes and young people. Anorexia is a diagnosable psychological illness, but
orthorexia is a new kind of disordered eating. ‘Orthorexia is the result of obsessive “clean eating”. There’s this new language developing around food that doesn’t encompass the full picture of healthy eating. This idea has arisen that if we eat perfectly, we’ll have the perfect body. But what we’re seeing is people becoming malnourished and deficient in certain nutrients, with health complications being the consequence of taking clean eating to the extreme.’
‘We are social, spiritual, physical and emotional beings. “Quick fix” programmes ignore this bigger holistic picture. Even an elite athlete can’t be expected to live an utterly restrictive lifestyle without it detrimentally affecting other important facets of life.’ Conrad wants to see a mindset change not only in the fitness industry, but in general societal attitudes towards healthy living. ‘I have a lot of clients who come to me and want to live a healthier life. Some don’t lose weight, but their whole social and emotional life— how they spend time with their family—changes completely because, for example, they’re more active.
HOW MANY ‘LIKES’ DID YOU GET? Conrad wants all of us to understand that social media ‘likes’ are poor indicators of success and don’t translate into happiness. ‘Guys with their shirts off, waxed and covered in fake tan—that’s not normal! Science tells us that getting “likes” on a buff chest shot makes you feel good, but, conversely, not getting a like has a detrimental effect, so people keep chasing the “likes” to feel good. This is a problem.’
IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE ALL OR NOTHING? The fitness industry is leaping onto the bandwagon of this obsession with so many ‘quick fix’ programmes increasingly available. But they do more harm than good, Conrad warns. ‘I see it all the time. People see the advertisements and sign up and fall into this “all or nothing” mentality. People start well, but when it gets hard or they get sick and fall off the wagon early, they give up hope about losing weight or becoming stronger. But this is not how good nutrition works. Our bodies are actually very resistant to the “all or nothing” approach.’ Conrad has concluded that an unhelpful ‘gloss’ surrounds the clean-eating phenomenon. ‘There’s this perception that it’s something good, but this is a false picture. ‘I’ve been to BBQs where people bring their own food because they don’t want to have “bad” food, or they’re tracking their calories. And that’s all very well and good, but if you’re going to someone’s place to celebrate their birthday, but you can’t even share a piece of cake, then you’ve become stuck in this obsessive diet culture. Not only is it hurting you physically and mentally, but now it’s affecting you socially, by causing tension in your relationships with others.’
Conrad wants young people to understand that there’s so much more to life. ‘Social media is a very small and narrow world in terms of what life has to offer. Top sports players and business leaders generally don’t put half-naked pictures of themselves online, because they’re out there living wellbalanced lives, enjoying what they do and spending time with their friends and families. They’re often out there living the life people on social media are desiring—we must disconnect to reconnect with reality. ‘Life is about balance—work hard, play hard and rest well. If you’re not happy with your life, with what you’re doing, make some changes,’ he advises.
Conrad’s Tips When it comes to living a healthy, holistically fulfilling life, try these tips: 1 Love what you do. Choose a sport or activity that gets you moving, that you really enjoy. And get out there and do it. 2 Work hard. You can’t go through life with your hand out—if you want to be successful, apply yourself.
HOLISTIC AND HEALTHY
3 Have down time. Find the balance between working hard and recovering. Rest well. Figure out what relaxes you and enables you to reflect.
Youth workers will be familiar with the Hauroa Wellbeing model, or Te Whare Tapa Whā, which Conrad fully endorses.
4 Remember that life is about the long game. Don’t sell yourself short by chasing the quick fixes. Take your time and enjoy your life.
10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 13
The Salvation Army and Wattie’s Partnership—25 Years and Counting
Last year The Salvation Army and Wattie’s celebrated 25 years of partnership. At its conception, no-one would have imagined how successful and longstanding the relationship would become. BY LOUISE PARRY
Ruth Richardson’s 1991 ‘Mother of All Budgets’ instantly changed the face of New Zealand society, and led directly to The Salvation Army opening its first foodbank, in South Auckland. Under Jim Bolger’s National Government, Richardson worked closely with Minister of Social Welfare Jenny Shipley on the Budget, which cut the unemployment benefit by $14.00 a week, the sickness benefit by $27.04, families benefits by $25 (to $27), and abolished universal payments for family benefits. The Salvation Army saw an immediate response to the cuts: people were suddenly needing help to meet their basic needs. Auckland’s North Shore was one place that suddenly experienced huge demand for help feeding their families. Major Terry Heese was shocked at the level of need, even in an area many considered a ‘posh’ part of Auckland. ‘We never really had any great need on the North Shore. That changed immediately. ‘The Budget totally affected all beneficiaries,’ Terry says. ‘Prior to that, we didn’t need a food store, there were just a handful of people in need.’ A foodbank was desperately needed, but there were budget concerns. ‘We started the community ministry, but we needed money.’ The Wairau Park retail complex was being built at the time and included a theatre complex. Peter Wyatt from Auckland Congress Hall knew the theatre manager, and, along with Terry, 14 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
approached him to ask if he would be willing to give people tickets to a movie in exchange for the donation of a can for the foodbank. So the ‘Cans Film Festival’ began. ‘It was a great success, so the following year it went Auckland-wide. And that was so successful that the following year it went nationwide,’ Terry says. Wattie’s immediately got behind the project, donating up to 25,000 cans—it continues to do this each year. In total, 1,484,000 cans have been donated through the duration of the partnership. ‘I guess I was a bit surprised with the generosity of Wattie’s, but then I’ve always been surprised by people’s generosity.’ In 2016, the Cans Film Festival changed to Cans for Good, which saw schools take on the challenge of donating to the foodbanks. ‘We always have to adapt and change. We had done the movie thing for enough years,’ Terry says. The Salvation Army’s partnership with Wattie’s has endured. ‘It has turned out to be an amazing link for the Army that has continued. ‘The Cans Film Festival was a great initiative but, because we could only get as many cans as there were theatre seats, we needed to find a way of getting more donations,’ Rhondda Middleton, former Salvation Army Public Relations Community
... THE DEMAND FOR FOOD CONTINUES TO GROW, AND WHILE FRESH PRODUCE IS GREAT TO HAVE, CANS OF FOOD WILL ALWAYS FORM A STAPLE OF THE FOOD PARCELS THAT GO OUT TO PEOPLE. Engagement Manager—and Terry’s daughter—says. ‘I had just joined the PR team. We needed to make sure cans were going into supporting people needing food, but also connecting with a new generation and showing them how they could be generous. That’s why we developed a new appeal focussed on schools.’ The first year saw donations far exceed expectations. ‘I said: “Surely we’ll get 40,000”. Then I said: “Surely we’ll get 60,000”. In that first year we completely blew that target away.’ Schools got right behind the project, and students donated 67,212 cans. ‘It’s so cool to partner with Wattie’s to tell the story about how simple it is to help others,’ Rhondda says. The project has gone from strength to strength, with many schools adding events like mufti days to bolster donations to the food banks. Last year, 250 schools took part, and the team are hoping to get more on board in 2019. There’s also a competition to see which school can make the most impressive creation out of cans. ‘We’ve seen some incredible designs over the years,’ Rhondda says. Rhondda says the demand for food continues to grow, and while fresh produce is great to have, cans of food will always form a staple of the food parcels that go out to people. ‘As we know as parents, there’s always something delicious you can make with a can of sweet corn, some relish and bread,’ she says. Cans are also easy to stack and store at the foodbanks. Although Rhondda is now overseeing Community Ministries in Northern Division, she says the legacy her father Terry helped create, endures. Last year, Terry joined her at the 25th celebrations of The Salvation Army’s partnership with Wattie’s. ‘My parents instilled in me caring for people, and that we all can make changes—it’s our kaupapa.’ Photo opposite page: Rhondda Middleton (second from right) and her father, Major Terry Heese (right) with Rhian Pereira and Tina Wong from Wattie’s.
Pop-up Medical Clinic Highlights Desperate Need for Healthcare The free doctor’s clinic run in Waitākere as part of The Salvation Army Winter Appeal has highlighted the difficulty beneficiaries and low income earners have in accessing health care. The clinic operated over the four weeks of the Winter Appeal, run by Dr Mark Hotu of home-visiting service New Zealand Home Doctors. Passionate about helping people get the medical treatment they need, he is alarmed that many low-income earners with chronic medical conditions cannot afford to see their GP, yet WINZ support is available to them. Dr Hotu says many patients had long-term conditions that require regular doctor’s visits, but they couldn’t afford to get there. ‘When it comes down to putting food on the table or getting your blood pressure medicine, what would you choose? ‘People would rather get their kids a couple of cans of spaghetti than pay $18.50 for a doctor’s visit, and then $5 for the script,’ Dr Hotu says. He was shocked to be told by a WINZ customer support staff member that grants to cover the cost of medical treatment for patients with chronic conditions could be given ‘if they want them’. ‘The Government and WINZ are fantastic at providing support, but they’re not exactly putting billboards up publicising it.’ Dr Hotu is concerned that when people are feeling ok, they don’t go back to their GP for monitoring of conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, and this can lead to heart attacks and strokes. ‘We are trying to be the ambulance at the top of the cliff,’ Dr Hotu says. He says exteme poverty is behind people not seeing their GP. ‘It’s a right under the Treaty, and a global right to be able to access healthcare.’ Waitākere Community Ministries director Jason Dilger says the appointments were fully booked, with staff at Waitākere identifying people who may benefit from seeing a doctor. ‘Particularly rough sleepers, who we work with a lot,’ Jason says. Rough sleepers come into Waitākere during the day to have a shower, make themselves breakfast, and sometimes just have some time in the day room, which they can use until midday. ‘Having a shower and doing laundry is pretty vital for them,’ he says. ‘Once your blanket gets wet it’s not usable, so being able to do laundry here is important.’ Jason says cost is the main factor in people not going to see a doctor, and a concern is that small ailments like a cough can worsen if they are not treated early. Having a clinic at a centre where people already come to get help— including food parcels, budgeting advice and councilling—meant staff were able to identify those who could benefit from a visit to Dr Hotu. One such client mentioned to staff he had high blood pressure. ‘We were able to say: “there’s a doctor here now, go and see him”,’ Jason says. The client was relieved to get a check up, and his blood pressure has now fallen. ‘Having a doctor onsite made it super-available. Because we know our people, if we know someone needs a check-up, then there it was.’ 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 15
Tribute: Tepene Karaka (Tex Clark) E pā, whakahokia ki tō maunga ki purea ai koe e ngā hau o Tāwhirimātea. Haere e pā , e moe, e oki, whakangaro atu rā! To you our wise leader, return to your mountain so that you may be cleansed by the winds of Tāwhirimātea! Go, sleep now within the realms of your ancestors! Amongst a rōpu of around 150 people representing many different groups, Aux-Captain Teao Kauirangi (Nan) Patea, Captain Hana Seddon and Lt-Col Ian Hutson—representing Te Ope Whakaora Māori Ministry—attended the tangihanga for kaumātua Tepene (Tex) Karaka (Clark) at Weraroa Marae, Waikaretu, Waikato. This was only one of many powhiri carried out over the weekend of 8–10 May 2019, as various groups came to honour Tex. Tex was a kaumātua who worked closely with The Salvation Army for many years. He was most closely associated with The Nest in Hamilton where he provided cultural advice and support for Community Ministies, but also for the Bridge addiction programme in Waikato. He provided significant support to the national Bridge programme in developing Māori responsiveness in addiction programmes countrywide. Later, he gave much-needed support to the National Māori Ministry Council, and Leaders Joseph & Nan TK Patea. His graceful manner and inherent strength made it possible for the Army to respond more effectively and sensitively to issues affecting Māori. Major Ivan Allott, a long-time friend, said that Tex was a good Christian man who was a support to him as Director of The Nest, and someone who made the many Māori clients who came to The Nest feel safe and respected. Officers and staff learnt a great deal about how to work with Māori because of his oversight. Tex was also instrumental in arranging for a Māori carving, among other taonga, to be made for The Nest. The design of the carving was developed in collaboration between the carver, Tex, and the thenDirector of Community Ministries, Major Ivan Allott. The carving incorporated Māori cultural symbols, especially in relation to the local Tainui Iwi, along with key symbols or representations of the Christian faith. It was a beautiful and meaningful gift, symbolising
a close relationship between tangata whenua and Te Ope Whakaora. Tex’s wife Tuahana, spoke to her husband in warm and loving tones, as Ian Hutson filed past her, sitting as she was beside the open casket: ‘Tepene, Te Ope Whakaora are here to see you’. The warmth and gratitude for the Army’s presence and what it represented was really evident. A more sobering aspect of Tuahana (left) and Tepene the korero at the powhiri was a reference made about (Tex) Karaka. the way— towards the end of Tex’s time with Te Ope Whakaora—his whānau felt he hadn’t been treated as well as he might. This reflected the kind of honesty often practised at such times in the context of sharing and caring. This was a reminder of the need to constantly work to bridge the cultural gap that too easily separates us, and to treasure and maintain the relationships we have made. A kaumātua who stood to speak described Tex as ‘He tangata hūmarie, he tangata ngākau nui ake ngā whānau o Te Puaha o Waikato, huri noa ki te tai Hauāuru tae atu ki te motu whānui hoki’. (A renowned leader who demonstated humility. Where the river meets the sea, is symbolic of his passion about bringing together and unifying the whānau and hapū of Waikato, from the western winds to the sacred lands of our people.) Many people’s lives have been enriched significantly by Tex’s humble and committed life, and Te Ope Whakaora owes a debt of gratitude to him and his whānau for the service he gave. Moe mai rā e koro, i roto i te ariki. Paimārire!
What a Ride! Launches Major Judith Bennett’s latest book, What A Ride!, was launched at Wellington South Corps on Sunday 7 July to an eager crowd. The latest Flag Publications book captures Judith’s life story— over 53 years of officership, tracking changes in attitudes towards women and ways of doing mission, as well as a very personal account of her journey of self-discovery after learning she was adopted. Commissioner Garth McKenzie described Judith as ‘indefatigable’ and ‘undeniable’. ‘Indefatigable is defined as tireless persistence, keeps on trying, learns new skills, and never gives up. This, I think, fits you Judith, like a glove,’ said Garth. ‘It’s beyond doubt and irrefutable, Judith, that you were born to be a Salvation Army officer,’ he reflected. Judith thanked Major Shar Davis for her encouragement to persist with the manuscript—initially conceived as something to record her life story for her children and close family and friends. Shar believed it would be a book that the territory would want to publish. ‘My greatest desire for this book is that it would bring glory and honour to God,’ said Judith. Reading from the journal she kept through the writing process, Judith said: ‘As I come 16 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
to the final stage of writing, I pray for your Spirit’s alertness, discernment and wisdom … As I’ve checked through the book, I am absolutely amazed at all that I’ve written. I could not have written this. Your Spirit’s guidance, wisdom and inspiration has been the overall author.’ In thanking her husband David, she said that he had not seen any of the content of the book until the final product. He had a copy in his carry-on luggage for their recent trip to the UK. ‘He sat next to me and didn’t talk to me until we got out at Los Angeles … he read the book on two flights. Thank you for the hardest thing of all, letting me be me,’ she told him. Colonel Heather Rodwell accepted the book on behalf of the territory and thanked Judith for sharing her story with The Salvation Army. ‘This is a story of courage and obedience, it’s an account of friendships and adventures. It really captivated me as a reader,’ she said. The book went on sale at the conclusion of the launch, with 45 copies being snapped up in 30 minutes. What a Ride! is available from Salvationist Resources for $29.95. Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz
(Purchasing) Power to the People! The Salvation Army’s Porirua Good Shop van was launched last month, to disrupt the practices of predatory lenders. In a ceremony featuring karakia and prayers from Ngāti Toa and The Salvation Army, along with a stirring cultural performance by Brandon Intermediate students, the van and its staff were sent on their way to combat predatory lending. At the event, The Salvation A good partnership. (From left) Major Pam Waugh & Captain Nicki Dutton Army Territorial Community from The Salvation Army, Kate Porter & Ross Harvey from Countdown, Frances Ministries Director Jono Ronowicz & Craig Moffat from BNZ, Alice Montague from Nikau Foundation, Bell, recalled first coming Anderson Wrenn from Noel Leeming, Gagau Annandale-Stone from Ministry across mobile shops in South of Social Develpment, Lakena Taualii, Allana Lloyd & Robyn Bruce from The Auckland as a young social Salvation Army, & Paul Eagle, Labour MP. worker twenty years ago. ‘We would like to see a change in the law that would He was shocked at the time at the level of interest being stop the extortion of our people. But we can’t wait for charged on items, and says The Good Shop initiative has that, so we’ve got on and done something about it. predatory third-tier lenders running scared. ‘God bless those who are going to be clients. May they have the opportunity to transform their lives by the power of Jesus Christ and, ultimately, our community will be transformed,’ he said. Porirua Mayor Mike Tana said the van was an example of ‘faith in action’. Labour MP Paul Eagle said he wished this type of service, along with night shelters and foodbanks, was not needed. He said legislation limiting the amount of interest lenders can charge, along with legally-binding ‘do not knock’ stickers would add to the efficacy of The Good Shop, in keeping people out of debt. Wellington Community Ministries Director Pam Brandon Intermediate School students perform at Waugh prayed for The Good Shop to ‘be a great disruptor, the launch of The Good Shop in Porirua. and a good disruptor that will see predatory lenders run out of town’. Porirua is the second van to be launched; the first operates in South Auckland and is proving successful in allowing people with limited transport to shop for goods at shop prices, not the inflated prices often charged by mobile shops. Jono says Cannon’s Creek is a ‘food desert’ with no supermarkets and only dairies or Four Square stores —which charge more—available close to many people’s homes. He thanked the project’s partners—BNZ, Countdown, Warehouse Group, Tindall Foundation and Nikau Foundation—and said their willingness ‘to do something different’ led to the project’s fruition. A karakia from Waata Peita, kaumātua from The Salvation Army Territorial Commander Andy Maraeroa marae (right), at the launch of The Good Westrupp said The Good Shop was necessary. Shop in Porirua.
10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 17
The Salvation Army and Sexism
The Salvation Army International Headquarters recently released its 17th International Positional Statement—Sexism. STATEMENT OF POSITION
Sexism is discrimination based on sex or gender, most often against women and girls and is increasingly understood as a fundamental human rights issue. Sexism often includes a combination of prejudice plus power. It is expressed through systemic, structured prejudice and cultural discrimination and can be present in a family, communities of faith, and societal and national cultures. The Salvation Army believes that both male and female are made in the image of God and are equal in value, and therefore is opposed to sexism. We reject any view that subordinates women to men, or men to women. The Salvation Army believes that our world is enhanced by equitably valuing, equipping and mobilising all human beings. While valuing gender equity, The Salvation Army acknowledges with regret that Salvationists have sometimes conformed to societal and organisational norms that perpetuate sexism. We are committed to model the equitable valuing, equipping and mobilising of men and women, and will speak into societies around the world where sexism exists.
BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT
Women often experience systemic social injustice because of their gender. Sexism can result in extreme human cruelty and even death. • In some cultures infant girls do not receive the same medical care and attention that boys receive. • Women have been doused in kerosene and set ablaze or burned with acid for ‘disobedience’. So-called ‘honour killings’ take the lives of thousands of young women every year. • Globally, women aged 15 through 44 are more likely to be maimed or die from male violence than from cancer, malaria, traffic accidents and war combined. • The majority of people trapped in modern slavery every year are female, many being exploited for sexual purposes. Sexist attitudes may result in a pay gap or sexual harassment. Globally, women earn less compared with similar male workers, according to median hourly earnings. The feminisation of poverty is a direct consequence of women’s unequal access to education and economic opportunities. The United Nations estimates that women perform 66 percent of the world’s work and produce 50 percent of the food, yet earn only 10 percent of the income and own 1 percent of the property. Sexist behaviour can include a man talking condescendingly to a woman with the automatic assumption that he knows more about the subject than she does; or a deliberate pattern of manipulation that makes a woman doubt her own perceptions or sanity. This behaviour is frequently associated with male emotional abuse of a female. Sexism can begin at a young age. Studies of classrooms ranging from kindergarten through graduate school reveal that teachers are more likely to call on male students, even when female students raise their hands; wait longer for male than for female students to respond to questions; and give male students more eye contact. The desire of women to develop themselves and use their gifts is fundamentally human. Denying or stifling education or job opportunities is oppressive. 18 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
GROUNDS FOR THE POSITION OF THE SALVATION ARMY
The first chapters of the Bible teach that man and woman are created to enjoy community together. The fundamental equality of the sexes is affirmed. God makes man and woman equal in dignity and status, giving authority and dominion over creation to both. In the creation of woman, God provides a ‘suitable helper’ for man. Throughout the Old Testament a ‘helper’ is one who ‘rescues’ others in situations of need. ‘Helper’ is a word frequently applied to God, who is competent and strong, not subordinate. Domination of woman by man is due to the Fall. This is the penalty for sin, and not the original intention for mutual harmony. References to ‘God the Father’ can be misinterpreted. The scriptural description does not mean that God is male, but rather that God acts towards us as a loving father would. The Bible also describes God as loving us with the care associated with mothers. Alongside Old Testament patriarchs, Miriam, Huldah and Deborah demonstrate the same kind of religious authority as men. In the New Testament, we see numerous examples where Jesus recognises the inherent dignity of women that Eve experienced before the Fall: • Jesus affirmed Mary for assuming the posture of a disciple— Luke 10:38–42 • Jesus discoursed courteously with the Samaritan woman at the well—John 4:1–26 • Jesus honoured the woman anointing his feet with perfume— Luke 7:36–50 • Jesus commissioned Mary first with the news of the resurrection—Matthew 28:1–10. On the day of Pentecost, the outpouring of the Spirit includes both men and women, as prophesied by Joel. Christian community is intended as a community of oneness, where male and female are ‘all one in Christ’. God intends redemption to restore equality between men and women, beginning with the community of faith, the Church.
PRACTICAL RESPONSES
The Salvation Army is committed to the equality of men and women. In 1895, William Booth directed his senior leaders in Orders and Regulations for Salvation Army Staff Officers: ‘Women must be treated as equal with men in all the intellectual and social relationships in life.’ While acknowledging this directive has not always been achieved, The Salvation Army retains this commitment in the current Orders and Regulations for Officers: Principle of equality. An important principle in the government of the Army is the right of men and women to share equally in the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Both men and women Salvationists, married or single, can hold any rank, responsibility or position of authority in the Army from that of local officer to that of General. Additionally, The Salvation Army embodies a worldwide tradition of service to others without discrimination and will advocate on behalf of women and girls.
‘ … WHAT WILL BE OUR COLLECTIVE RESPONSE TO THIS JOURNEY OF GROWING AWARENESS?’
Responding at an organisational level: • The Salvation Army seeks to challenge and overcome sexism wherever it exists, promoting egalitarian values in all expressions of Salvation Army life. Responding at an individual level: • Salvationists are expected to take personal action against sexism, motivated by their obedience to the example of Jesus and their respect for the image of God in male and female. Responding at a societal level: • The Salvation Army seeks to influence governments, businesses, civil society and other faith communities to promote the equitable treatment of men and women, including efforts to achieve equitable working conditions, pay, educational opportunities and public safety for women and girls. • The Salvation Army seeks to encourage all people—especially leaders in society—to recognise the negative effects of sexism and commit to rectify this injustice. GAZETTE Bereavement: Captain Janet Newman, of her father, Ron Hughes, in Waikanae on Friday 12 July 2019. Please uphold Captains Janet and Doug Newman and other family members in prayer during this time of grief and loss. Promotion to Glory: Major Darrell Leque on Saturday 1 June 2019 at home in Rolleston, Christchurch, aged 72 years. Darrell Roger Leque was born in Oakland, California, USA on 4 October 1946 and married Marilyn Pate on 12 February 1985. Darrell and Marilyn were warranted as Territorial Envoys in New Zealand on 24 January 1991 and appointed to assist at Bethany Eventide Village, Christchurch. Two years later, Darrell was appointed as manager. Darrell and Marilyn attended the Salt Courses in 1991–1993, being commissioned as Auxiliary Captains on 12 January 1995. In 1997, Darrell was appointed as Manager Omaio Village, Nelson, with responsibility for the Independent Living Units. Appointments as Assistant Officer to the Bridge, Auckland, and Chaplain to the Recovery Church followed in 2005 before returning to Christchurch as Director of the Supportive Accommodation at Addington in 2010. It is from this appointment that Darrell retired on 31 October 2011. We honour Major Darrell Leque for his years of officership and continued service in retirement. Please uphold Major Marilyn Leque and the extended family, in New Zealand and the United States, in prayer at this time of grief and loss.
I’ve been reflecting on what I see as the greatest shift in New Zealand Salvation Army culture in recent times—the renaissance of tikanga Māori (procedure) in relation to the way we do things. The shift, in my view, has been positive and profound—perhaps unanticipated by many—in its extent. There are reasons why things Māori have, at last, gained significant momentum within our Army at this time—the foremost being visionary leadership by passionate people around Aotearoa New Zealand. There has been a significant investment of time and resources into opportunities for Salvationists to participate in, and enjoy, Māori culture. But it hasn’t just been about language, music and dance—we have also witnessed a development of access for both Pākehā and Māori, to honestly reflect on Aotearoa New Zealand’s history, our Army, and to grow in our understanding of Māori values and aspirations. One important, and at times tense, discussion, has been about what it looks like for Māori to relate to God and faith as Māori, within our Pākehā-dominant Army culture. Much of our hitherto misunderstandings have boiled down to this tension. To cite one example, at times Pākehā soldiers and staff have been surprised to discover that what they thought was consultation over an issue has not been perceived as such by Māori. There has been strain as well-worn, established patterns of decision-making have been challenged by Māori Salvationists, when they have pointed out the shortcomings in Pākehāpatterned and led discussions. So, what will be our collective Salvation Army response to this journey of growing awareness? I am on a journey of my own—a journey of discovery. There is a Māori proverb that says: ‘Ka mua, ka muri’. The words paint an image of people walking backwards into the future. It holds that the past is clearly visible, but the future is not, because we have imperfect information for the road ahead. As I have looked back, with far more clarity than what was offered when I was taught New Zealand (read: Pākehā) history, I have come to the realisation that there is an ongoing need for reconciliation between Māori and Pākehā— particularly around the issues of restitution, power-sharing and challenging the unconscious bias that, at times, underscores how we go about things. As Māori (tangata whenua) and Pākehā (tangata tiriti) Salvationists alike, we need to truly understand the past—the good and the bad—and walk into a God-honouring future together. Commissioner Andy Westrupp Territorial Commander 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 19
and how God convinced me to part with mine. BY JULES BADGER
For many years, I thought I understood what was required of me as a believer when it comes to living generously and honouring God with my time, talents and money. However, if living generously means the quality of being kind and generous as outlined in the dictionary, and is synonymous with words like lavishness, liberality, open-handedness, freehandedness, bounty, unselfishness— then, well, those concepts are not particularly synonymous with me. Let’s take chocolate for example. I don’t share chocolate. No way. Chocolate is not for sharing. If you give me chocolate and think I’m going to open it and then share it with you—think again! Go get your own chocolate. If I have chocolate, the likelihood of me giving said chocolate 20 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
away is extremely unlikely. Doesn’t sound much like open-handedness, now does it? And if I’m a bit generous in some areas of my life, but not all areas, can I really call myself generous? What does it really mean to be generous? Does the Bible put a different spin on it to the dictionary definition given above, or to what our culture or society around us considers generosity to be? And what does generosity have to do with being a disciple of Jesus anyway? Do I have to give?
GENEROUS LIVING IS NOT OPTIONAL. IT’S NOT AN ADDITIONAL EXTRA. IT’S RIGHT AT THE HEART OF DISCIPLESHIP. money—tithes to the synagogue or the work of the early church or offerings to the poor, widows and orphans.
of our hearts every time we express generosity.’
You can do your own word study, but what I concluded was this: a mature disciple of Jesus Christ lives a simple, sincere, generous lifestyle which spans all areas of our lives. I also discovered that time, talents and tithes are a three-forone deal. We cannot leave our cold hard cash out of the generosity equation. Scripture simply doesn’t allow for this option.
You see, God is a generous God. It’s part of his character. It’s who he is. And I don’t think it’s just a case of God wanting us to reflect his likeness, I believe God desires his people to be generous because it liberates us from the pain and pressure of having to be like the world us when it comes to money.
I was shocked! I have always assumed (or maybe chosen to believe, because it’s more palatable) that my time, talents and tithe were more of an either/or-type situation. As an officer, I’ve given a lot of time serving, and my talents are tightly aligned with my role, so I confess there have been times when I’ve therefore justified hanging onto my precious coin. But to my spiritual conviction, the use of my time and talents doesn’t let me off the hook when it comes to tithing regularly and being generous with my financial resources. Okay, so it’s getting awkward now, but bear with me
These are not comfortable questions, but important ones.
Ouch. Revealing.
Our world is greedy. Money is power. And so often it is wielded selfishly. We know the love of money is behind so much evil in the world (1 Timothy 6:10). But God wants something different for us as his people—not just for our own sake, but for the sake of those he wants to bless through our obedience, faithfulness, love and simple, sincere generosity. The annual Self Denial Appeal is upon us. We have an opportunity to express our commitment to the generous lifestyle God calls each of his disciples to, and not only see lives transformed through God’s Kingdom economy, but our own hearts too.
Jesus makes things plain in Matthew 6:21, ‘For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’
A biblical word study—which means looking into the original New Testament Greek to see if there’s anything that gets lost, literally, in translation to English—reveals that several different Greek words could be translated as ‘generous’ in English. Conversely, several different English words could be translated into more than one Greek word for generous. Crazy! But there is good news …
Jesus wants our whole heart. Not just the parts that are easy to give him. In fact, he most wants the parts that are the hardest to give him. Why? Because he knows that what we withhold from his Lordship always hurts us in the long run. And on the flipside, he knows that when we do surrender our whole selves to him, there is greater freedom for his Spirit to work in and through us, and more scope for his blessing and love to pervade our lives.
To my surprise, essentially, what we get in English are words like generous and bountiful, but also—and wow—words like sincere and simple. But here’s the rub: almost always, these words were used in Scripture within the context of
Bill Hybels puts it like this—and this is helpful even though it’s hard to swallow—‘God can see the true nature
Generous living is not optional. It’s not an additional extra. It’s right at the heart of discipleship.
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OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Andy (Territorial Commander) and Yvonne Westrupp (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 25 August: Hutt City Corps Visit, Lower Hutt 29 Aug–2 Sept: Samoa Review Visit, Samoa 3 September: SPROC, Auckland
PRAY Upper Hutt Corps, Vaini Corps, Vava’u Corps Plant, Waihi Corps, Waitakere Central Corps; The Salvation Army in Mexico
Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Territorial Secretary for Programme & Communications) 26–29 August: School for Officer Training, Fiji 31 Aug–1 Sep: Labasa Corps Visit
Expressions of interest are sought for the position of SpiritSong leader. • Conduct rehearsals • Co-ordinate concerts and public performances
Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 23–24 August: Upper Hutt Corps Women’s Retreat, Featherson
• Develop members • Recruit new members • Work alongside Executive Officer
Must be a Senior Soldier Vocal leadership experience preferred
For more details see www.salvationarmy.org.nz/news/spiritsong Please submit your expression of interest and relevant CV to jim.downey@salvationarmy.org.nz by 30th August 2019.
with Rotorua Corps
What A Ride!
271 Old Taupō Road
by Major Judith Bennett
On Sunday 1 September, at 10am, we are holding a thanksgiving service to celebrate God’s faithfulness and blessings over the period we have been located at Old Taupō Road.
AVAILABLE NOW! $29.95 To purchase, email: mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz
This is in preparation for our transition to, and amalgamation with, Community Ministries and the Family Store at a site on the corner of Amohia and Pukuatua Streets, Rotorua, in the near future. Shared Lunch 12.30pm An opportunity to visit our new location 2.30–4.30pm
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Parking limited on-site, please park on the road
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For catering & seating purposes: RSVP Friday 16 August 2019 Ph: (07) 350 1022 Email: gsmellsop@gmail.com
CONFER N EN O I T
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Wellington City Corps • 92 Vivian St Wellington
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Just Action 2019 calls us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, exploring the mission of renewing the Kingdom of God by inspiring sociallyjust solutions to our national issues.
Email Address
Register now at salvationarmy.org.nz/just-action-2019
Phone Send to: warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz or War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141
Quiz Answers: 1 Nuuk, 2 Hong Kong, 3 The dark, 4 Bed, Bunch, Clat, Clew, 5 Mary Magdalene (John 20:16).
22 WarCry 10 AUGUST 2019
Making Money ... Try and design your own bank note. They often have special people or animals on them.
Have you got your special Self Denial money box yet? You might even like to decorate it! Take your time making it look special and thinking about how special it will be when all the money you put inside is used to help people all over the world.
Count the coins ... I have four coins. Work out which four coins combine to match the totals below.
$0.90 $1.00 $1.30 $3.60
Memory verse ... Fill the gaps in our memory verse from the list below:
Yes, God will give you much so that you can give away much, and when we take your gifts to those who need them they will break out into thanksgiving and praise to God for your help. So two good things happen as a result of your gift—those who are in need are helped, and they overflow with thanks to God. 2 Corinthians 9:11-12 (TLB)
Missing words: your thanksgiving God gifts overflow need give
The most important thing to do with your money box is to fill it, of course! 100% of the money we donate goes straight to helping people in countries like the ones we’ll talk about during our Self Denial videos and family devotions. Here are some ideas of ways to fill it: Ask your parents/caregivers to give you some money for doing extra chores like emptying and filling the dishwasher every day, vacuuming, taking out the recycling/compost. Organise a carwash in your street/ neighbourhood—be sure to tell your neighbours what you’re up to, they’ll probably love to help! Contribute some of your pocket money. Ask people (like neighbours, grandparents, people at church) to sponsor you to do activities like giving up TV for a week or walking to school every day for a month. Choose not to stop at the dairy or go to the school canteen and put that money in your money box instead.
Our Self Denial Altar Service on August 25 is when we can be the change by giving our money to God and The Salvation Army for the work they do to support people around the world who need our help. Bring your money box or envelope to church that day and be part of the special time when your generous and sacrificial gifts are received.
Coin Answers: $0.90 (10/10/20/50). $1.00 (10/20/20/50). $1.30 (10/20/50/50). $3.60 (1/2/50/10) 10 AUGUST 2019 WarCry 23
General William Booth launched the first Self Denial Appeal in 1886. Please give one week’s salary to support the appeal. Start planning now for our Altar Service, Sunday 25 August.
W W W. S E LF D E N IAL . I N FO/N Z F TS