11 December 2021 NZFTS War Cry

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WAR CRY The Salvation Army

New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Julie & Mark Campbell | GENERAL Brian Peddle | FOUNDERS Catherine

& William 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.

EDITOR Vivienne Hill | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Nicole Gesmundo, Lauren Millington | STAFF WRITERS Holly Morton, Bethany Slaughter | PROOF READING Major Colleen Marshall OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street,

PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department, Phone

(04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT makeready.nz | PAPER Sumo Offset

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Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.

Hospitality Reimagined The theme of our Christmas War Cry is hospitality. Hospitality is defined as ‘the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way’. In the Bible, we are encouraged to be hospitable people, and Jesus was both the recipient and the giver of hospitality.

The pandemic has left many of our traditional Christmas plans on hold or in limbo as we negotiate changing levels of restrictions. Many of us will have a plan A and a plan B for Christmas, as we do not know whether Covid-19 will be an unwelcome guest in our various communities.

Most of our corps and centres are formulating plans around keeping all of our people safe in these uncertain days, and this is a responsible part of hospitality.

It is not exclusive but inclusive and takes creativity and planning to extend hospitality in a season of limitations and restrictions.

Our exemplar is Jesus Christ, who never allowed any barrier to come between himself and an individual. He calls us to a faith without borders or restrictions.

This is not to say we break the rules put in place to keep us safe, but our vision, our creativity, our ability to reach out in hospitality should not be limited, just adjusted and reimagined.

May God bless you and your families this Christmas season and may you know and give hospitality in generous and creative ways.

Vivienne Hill Editor

SalvationArmyNZFTS

Christ was born in the first century, yet he belongs to all centuries.

He was born a Jew, yet he belongs to all races. He was born in Bethlehem, yet he belongs to all countries.

@SalvationArmyNZ

George W Truett

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 138 years | Issue 6782 ISSN 0043-0242 (print), ISSN 2537-7442 (online) Please pass on or recycle this magazine Read online issuu.com/salvationarmynzftwarcry

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2 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

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Psalm 72:10–11 May the kings of Tarshish and of distant shores bring tribute to him. May the kings of Sheba and Seba present him gifts. May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him.

Ngā Waiata 72:10–11 Ka maua mai he hākari e ngā kingi o Tarahihi, o ngā motu; ka kawea mai he tahua e ngā kīngi o Hēpā, o Tepa. Āe, ka koropiko ngā kingi katoa ki a ia; ka mahi ngā iwi katoa ki a ia.

W

hen the angel Gabriel first announced the upcoming conception and birth of Jesus, I am sure Mary and Joseph’s expectations must have been quite different from the unfolding events and reality in which they found themselves.

They would have known the accounts of people like Moses, a major prophet of Israel, who was brought up in a palace; or the countless other kings in the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible), many born into comfort and wealth. Surely the Creator of the world, Israel’s long-awaited king, should enjoy a level of comfort and status worthy of his preeminence? And yet here they were, this very young couple, together embarking on a long arduous journey that resulted in no room in Bethlehem in which to birth the son of God entrusted to them. Instead, they roomedin with the animals and lay their newborn son in a stone feeding trough.

God’s plans may not have met their expectations and his plans often do not meet ours. His way of answering our prayers appears at times to make no sense, and he works in ways that seem contrary to common sense. God could have made the entrance of his Son into humanity a more comfortable affair, but that was not the point. Jesus’ birth, life and ministry contrasted in its humbleness and simplicity to the pomp and grandeur that surrounds a royal birth … and this is the point. He did not come as a conquering warrior king, he came as a helpless baby, an obscure child and a servant Saviour, but, ultimately, humanity’s Saviour. He is the baby in the trough, but he is also the Messiah worshipped by the visiting magi and announced by the angels.

Each one of us is invited to come worship Christ in all his humanity and all his glory. If you have given Jesus Christ access to your life and submitted to his leading and Lordship of your minutes and hours, then you can rest assured that no matter what your circumstances, no matter what your needs and desires, he is working together all the events, the experiences, for your good. It may look like a feeding trough, but the King of Heaven is the Bread of Life and you will feast with him.

This Christmas, look for him to come to you in the most unexpected and simple ways, he will come, he always does, he is Emmanuel: God with us.

Mediterranean Chicken Supplied by Vivienne Hill 9 chicken breasts 1/4 cup of olive oil ½ cup prunes, roughly chopped ¾ cup dried apricots, roughly chopped ¾ cup pitted olives (I use Kalamata) ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped

1 tsp crushed garlic salt and pepper to taste 4 bay leaves 1 tsp oregano ¾ cup red wine vinegar ¼ cup sugar 1½ cups white grape juice

Cut chicken breasts into thirds and place in a crockpot. Add all ingredients and mix. Cook on low for 6 hours. Serve with rice and a green salad.

Serves 10–12 people.

BY VIVIENNE HILL

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 3

Christmas Baking We’ve compiled some fun Christmas baking recipes for you to try this December. Whether you want a supper snack to enjoy with your family, a plate to share at a Christmas lunch or a gift for a loved one, we’ve road tested all of these fun recipes (and added some handy tips).

All recipes modified for formatting.

Peppermint Bark

Santa Hat Cheesecake Bites 1 plain cheesecake (homemade or store-bought) 1½ cans of whipped cream (or whip your own cream) 12 strawberries, tops sliced off

25 mini candy canes 4 cups chocolate chips (700g) ½ teaspoon peppermint extract 3 cups white chocolate chips (525g) Place the mini candy canes in a zip-lock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small chunks.

Transfer to a medium bowl.

In a separate medium bowl, stir the peppermint extract into the melted chocolate chips. Pour onto a baking paper-lined baking sheet and spread evenly with a spatula. Freeze for 5 minutes.

Using a round biscuit cutter, punch holes out of the cheesecake (depending on the size, you should be able to get 8 to 12 cheesecake bites).

Take the pan out of the freezer and pour the melted white chocolate over the chocolate, spreading evenly with a spatula.

Transfer whipped cream to a piping bag and pipe a layer on top of cheesecake.

Sprinkle the crushed mini candy canes over the white chocolate.

Top creamed cheesecake rounds with a strawberry, sliced side down.

Freeze for at least 1 hour.

Pipe a dot on top of strawberry and serve.

Remove the bark from the freezer and break into pieces. Enjoy!

Source: Lindsay Funston / delish.com

Source: Katie Aubin / tasty.co

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Hot Chocolate Brownie Cups For the Cups 1 box of brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box instructions) Mini marshmallows For the Topping ⅓ cup chocolate chips

red, green and white nonpareils (sprinkles or hundreds and thousands) (optional: 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzels, or candy canes cut into a c-shape)

Prepare brownie batter as per box instructions.

(Tip: Depending on your dietary restrictions, you can purchase a vegan or gluten-free brownie mix.)

Preheat oven to 180°C and grease a cupcake pan with cooking spray (or fill with baking cups).

Fill each well in the cupcake pan about three-quarters full with brownie batter.

Bake until edges look set, but centres still look a little undercooked (12 to 15 minutes).

Easy Christmas Tree Brownies 1 box brownie mix (or a batch of your favourite brownie recipe) 1 tub white vanilla icing (or a batch of your favourite icing recipe)

green food colouring small round sprinkles (optional: small star sprinkles or yellow candy decoration) candy canes

Tip: If needed, leave in the oven to make sure that the brownies have risen and that the base is set.

Line a 20 x 20cm baking pan with aluminium foil/ baking paper and spray with cooking spray.

Remove brownie cups from oven and press marshmallows into centres. Return to oven until marshmallows puff and melt (3 to 5 minutes).

Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions and bake as directed.

Remove from oven and let cool (15 to 20 minutes), then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Once cups are cool, melt chocolate chips in microwave.

Remove the brownies from the pan, and cut into triangles. (Tip: cut into three rows, then cut in alternating diagonals.)

(Optional: Break off pieces of chocolatecovered pretzels and use melted chocolate to stick them to sides of cookie cups. Let them set.)

Drizzle chocolate over the tops of marshmallows and garnish with sprinkles. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Source: Lena Abraham and Lindsay Conchar / delish.com

Allow brownies to completely cool.

Unwrap the candy canes and use a sharp knife to gently cut/break the candy canes into 3–4cm long pieces.

Press the sharper end of the candy cane into the bottom of the brownie triangles.

Spoon out approximately half of the tub of icing into a bowl. Add green food colouring until you’re happy with the colour, mix.

Spoon the green icing into a zip-lock bag, seal the bag and cut off a small corner with sharp scissors or use an icing bag.

Starting at the top of the brownie triangles, gently squeeze out the icing in a curvy zigzag as you go down the tree.

Add your favourite sprinkles, and a small star sprinkle/yellow decoration at the top. Enjoy!

Source: Debbie Chapman / onelittleproject.com

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Come to the Table!

This Christmas, we asked people from around our territory to share what hospitality means to them and how they express it at Christmastime. We also wanted to hear about a significant memory they have of receiving hospitality, and a recipe that holds special meaning to them. Here are the results!

Nuku’alofa Corps, Tonga Region

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rowing up and living in Tonga is a blessing. I am surrounded by family and friends who show love, have sharing hearts and teach and encourage me to always show good hospitality in whatever I do and say. This is how I was brought up at home and how I choose to show hospitality.

Hospitality is expressed in my relationships with others, no matter what their status in life. Sharing food, gifts, a word of kindness and being generous are my ways of showing hospitality. As Christmas approaches, giving away gifts and visiting and praying with others are how I will be celebrating Christmas with my family. Every year I join family members in a shared meal and we exchange gifts to mark this annual event, but the highlight is a time of praise, sharing and worship for God’s greatest gift in giving his Son to lead us, as the Light of the world.

In our Tongan culture, at a feast or celebration, only high and important people are allowed to be seated at the front table. I attended a feast one time and, to my surprise, I was called up to join the folks at the front table.

I questioned: ‘Why me?’, as I am not as important as those who were already seated. This hospitality was unexpected, it was a memorable moment in my life, and I thank God for having people show me this hospitality.

BY SESILINA PALU

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Apia Corps, Samoa Region o me, personally and as a receptionist, it is always a passion catering for people’s needs. My capacities include courage, love, warmth, eagerness to help, fair treatment, and other godly ways I have learnt. In my line of work, I greet people from all walks of life with honesty and equity.

No matter what kind of person I communicate with, the very important thing is to let everyone be equal—in this way, I will be able to help and make them feel comfortable. I always remember that I never know if what I say or how I cater for an event may well save a person’s soul.

I believe that the better we practise great hospitality in our work, the outcomes of service will continue and become successful. Even in families, treating our spouses and children well leads to a happy family. It’s the same within churches, the better the relationship with other members of the church, the more successful the church will be.

My little family always celebrates at home on Christmas Day. This is a very special time for us because it’s when we offer gratitude, respect and give joy to God for his love and mercy over many days. It is also a time of reconciliation—to be reconciled to one another, but, more importantly, to be reconciled to God. We unite in love through the gifts we offer one another, the conversations and singing, as well as within the community, workplace and the church. When I greet people and wish them happiness, I am excited to uplift their spirits. Although I’m not perfect, since I became a soldier, there is always CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 7

Pineapple Pie Supplied by Captain ‘Asena Sifa, Tonga Region 1kg self-raising flour 6 eggs 250g butter 1½ cups sugar 1 tsp vanilla essence 1 pineapple

For coconut custard 2 tins coconut milk ⅔ cup sugar 2 tsp vanilla essence 6 Tbsp cornflour

faces and they seemed eager to greet me. I was told of a special welcome morning tea that was going to be held. I started to feel confident instead of fearful and shy. During morning tea, the team shared and advised me about the work. I was so grateful to God for their generosity and the friendly treatment shown to me by these people. I’m still witnessing the continuation of such hospitality today.

I would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May you all have peace and happiness from God.

BY TEUILA FAIMANU

Samoan Fish Salad / Oka l’a

To make the base, sift self-raising flour in a bowl.

Supplied by Teuila Faimanu, Samoa Region

In a separate bowl place eggs, butter, sugar and vanilla essence and mix until creamed.

500g tuna (you can use any fresh fish you like, just make sure it is really fresh) ½ cup lemon or lime juice, freshly squeezed ¼ onion diced

Add flour to the mixture and blend using your hands. Press into a pie dish and cook in a moderate oven until lightly browned.

To make pineapple filling Peel and blend a pineapple.

Make a thick custard with coconut milk by combining in a saucepan coconut milk, sugar, vanilla and cornflour. Turn on the heat to medium-low flame and stir continuously until the sauce thickens. It should take 10–15 minutes, you may need to increase the quantities depending on the size of your pie dish. (www.flavourstreat.com/coconut-milk-custardvegan-custard-sauce-video) Heat custard together with the pineapple.

Pour into the cooked base and refrigerate.

Serve with lemon cream.

a desire in me to help and reach out to those who value more of the worldly things at Christmas than Jesus. The true spirit of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Truth and the Life, who exemplifies the good ways we should live within this life, such as a great hospitable spirit.

When I started my career in The Salvation Army, I never thought that I would be welcomed and treated in such a way on my first day. When I walked in, I saw everyone’s happy 8 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

2 green onions (spring onions) 2 small tomatoes, diced 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced 1 cup coconut milk salt to taste

Combine to serve. Refrigerate.

Whangārei Corps, Northern division

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have been blessed and honoured to have participated and supported The Salvation Army Christmas Day Luncheon for the past two years in Whangārei. On each occasion I was part of an awesome bunch of people helping to provide a Christmas for some of our community’s most vulnerable and forgotten people and/or families who had been going through hard times. I loved seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter—people pitching in to help, men gathered around the barbeque swapping the obligatory fishing stories and good-natured banter—but the thing I appreciated the most was the normalcy of it all. A picture taken could have been one of any large whānau (family) celebrating Christmas.

I think this is the greatest gift we give, more than the food we provide or the prezzies we hand out. We gift the feeling of hope, togetherness, whānau, aroha (love), joy, happiness and a sense of normality—however briefly—just like every other family in the country.

BY HENRY MACKIE

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received a word from the Holy Spirit to dedicate some time during the Christmas season during my study break in 2020, and I had the opportunity to volunteer with The Salvation Army Whangārei Corps. This allowed me the chance to step out in faith, give back to the community and build my own social skills with others, whilst gaining work experience. I was involved with events such as the Volunteers’ Christmas lunch and the Adopt-a-Family Christmas drive.

These duties included kitchen hand, food prepping, packing over 100 hamper boxes and guiding families during the selection of choosing gifts and receiving a Christmas hamper.

A moment that stood out for me was when whānau would share their stories of not expecting to provide their whānau with gifts and food for Christmas; however, The Salvation Army was able to bless whānau to have a joyful Christmas with gifts and a Christmas food hamper. It was an inspiring experience for me to be able to share this time beside others striving towards Jesus in a family-oriented environment with the willingness to serve.

BY SARAH MAHANGA Along with Adopt-a-Family, Whangārei Corps also decorate their space to look really nice and then take whānau through to fill up a ‘sack’ with a large gift for each child, a book, two ‘filler’ items, a family game and something for the adults. Whānau are mostly invited through local schools.

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ast Christmas I had the opportunity to volunteer alongside the corps, blessing whānau with Christmas presents and food parcels. For me, this experience enabled me to widen my perspective, put my needs aside and take a look at others’ situations.

The process of walking alongside them, allowing them to choose gifts fitting for their whānau, was a privilege. Seeing the appreciation and thankfulness from them made the mahi (work) worthwhile. I was able to communicate with families, learning what hardships and pressures from Christmas they were experiencing. Working alongside the church to release some of that pressure was truly amazing.

On Christmas Day, the corps held a meal and had gifts for families or individuals who didn’t have the means to have a Christmas experience. As this was one of the first times I spent Christmas at the church, this experience was humbling. I found myself becoming more appreciative of what I have.

Christmas at Whangārei Salvation Army gave me an opportunity to indulge in an environment where you can value what you have and sympathise with those who go without.

BY TYLER HANSEN

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Lautoka Corps, Fiji Division

he word ‘hospitality’ is an action word for how we practically express our love and care. The sharing and giving of ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually is a great tool for ministry. It can be expressed in fellowship, the building of relationships and, of course, it opens up communication which can lead us to share the gospel with people. Hospitality means giving our best, our all, to serve others no matter what differences we may have. God grants us a genuine love that overflows from our hearts for everyone who comes our way.

Christmas, Christmas! It is a season of eating, drinking, giving gifts, visiting our friends and family reunions. It is a time of serving others through many ways as we express our love to God and love to people. The importance of bringing the greatest message of God’s love from heaven to earth, from God to humankind, is not only to preach it but to live it, manifest it and to practically do what Jesus did. People need to see and experience Christ. They need to know the truth that God cares for them, especially during this challenging time as people are losing jobs and businesses. This is a good opportunity for us to treat them as special during the Christmas season and tell them that God loves them.

Last Christmas at Lautoka Corps we celebrated a particularly memorable time of hospitality. We were blessed to receive assistance from our divisional headquarters, who assisted and entrusted us financially to provide a Christmas Community Meal that was really outstanding and a blessing to the community of Waiyavi.

There were between 200 to 250 people who turned out during this invitation celebration, which included 57 of our brothers and sisters from the streets of Lautoka. Corps members came together and prepared for the celebration. They also sat down and shared with the people to make them feel like they belonged.

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 9

It was so wonderful just to look at their faces and see their reactions when they walked into the gate and saw everything was decorated and the table was set up. The youth of the corps ran the programme and directed the guests to seats, for which we are grateful. Wow! Tears of joy were flowing and many shared that this was a most memorable time in their lives. They had never experienced anything like this before. Some of them have

had relatives, families and friends who have turned their backs on them, so it was important to represent to them God’s love and care that never runs out. A few of them are still coming to our Sunday service—praise be to God! Some also come to visit on weekdays as they feel like they belong to the family.

Thank you to all the youth for organising and making a very special, memorable night.

BY CAPTAIN SALESI TEMO

Lobster in Coconut Sauce Supplied by Captain Salesi Temo, Fiji Division 500g lobster 20g onion 15g garlic 40g capsicum Kumala (Kumara) mash 200g kumala 50ml milk

20g butter Coconut sauce 30g butter 30g flour 200ml coconut milk 150g cheese salt and pepper, to season

Wash the lobster along with the shell.

Cut the lobster in half and remove meat.

Cut meat into chunks and keep shell aside.

Fry lobster meat in butter with onion, garlic, seasoning and capsicum for 5 minutes and set aside.

For the coconut sauce Heat butter in a pan, sprinkle the flour and stir on a low heat for 1–2 minutes. Pour in coconut milk and stir continuously to avoid lumps. Add in cheese, salt and pepper and continue to stir till it turns to a smooth paste.

Now add the lobster meat into the sauce and gently mix.

Fill clean shells with this mixture, grate cheese on top and bake it in a hot oven for about 5 minutes.

For kumala (kumara) mash, cut into pieces and boil for 20 min, strain and start mashing. While it’s still hot, add in butter, milk and season.

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Hornby Corps, Southern division learnt about true hospitality as a young person while attending boarding school. The school terms were long, and I loved staying with Dad’s cousin and his wife during the occasional weekends. The bed was always warm and cosy. Playing board games, going out for drives and feeling accepted and part of a family while separated from my own made a huge impact.

I love the fact that Christmas is about sharing, caring, giving and Jesus’ birth. As a foster parent, I became increasingly aware of the number of lonely, isolated people who do not have any family connections and often come from traumatic backgrounds and therefore are left without celebrating Jesus’ birthday.

Through my foster boy, who is now almost 19, I became aware of young ones who have often left the foster care system and are floundering alone (some with addictions, gang connections and homelessness). I rolled up my sleeves and invited everybody I knew in this category to our evening Christmas meal.

Firstly, I sorted Christmas presents. Keeping it simple, I sourced Christmas mugs from Sallies shops, washed them, filled them with lollies, wrapped them in cellophane and had one for everyone under the tree. Last year I managed to get new pillows with pillowcases. I still recall some saying they have never had a new pillow of their own. One young person said they have never had a Christmas stocking (shh, don’t tell him he’s getting one this year!).

I am really blessed to have a very supportive pastor in Major Gill Waugh at Hornby Salvation Army, who really embraces and supports me with this mission. I also attend a prayer group and Bible study at Sydenham Salvation Army and enjoy attending their Christmas breakfast each year. Often, they have surplus berries to pass on at the end. It was a very welcome treat to have raspberries as part of the dessert last year. (You are awesome Gill, Jocelyn and Paul.) I love that we can share kai (food) and focus on the relevance of the day: sharing and celebrating Jesus.

My advice when hosting is to prepare as much in advance as possible. Keep it simple, yet create traditions at the same time. People always remember the tradition and the way you make them feel, not necessarily what they were given. I used to make all of my own Christmas crackers—now I buy store-bought ones and add my own personal touches (such as a small perfume, a few lollies, a nice pen...).

They are just as fun, yet this removes the stress and time factor.

I challenge you to find the marginalised and lonely in the community and invite them to be part of your Christmas. You won’t be disappointed.

Matthew 25:40 ‘The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me”.’

BY ANGELA SWINNEY

Aunty Corrine’s Easy Christmas Dessert Supplied by Angela Swinney, Southern Division 1 packet of gingernut biscuits 1 small tin of mandarins 1 bottle of cream, whipped ½ cup of crushed cornflakes, to serve 1 Tbsp brown sugar, to serve Layer the gingernut biscuits, mandarins and whipped cream in a dish, ending with whipped cream.

Decorate the top with a mix of crushed cornflakes and brown sugar. You only need about a tablespoon of brown sugar and ½ cup cornflakes.

(Tip: It’s very rich and best made a day ahead.)

Joyce Cleave’s Self-Saucing Crockpot Christmas Pudding Supplied by Angela Swinney, Southern Division For the sauce ¾ cup sugar 4 cups boiling water 50g butter For the pudding 50g butter, melted 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed 1¼ cups milk

2½ cups mixed fruit or sultanas 2½ cups flour pinch of salt 2 tsp mixed spice 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp baking soda custard or whipped cream, to serve

Turn crockpot on high. Place sauce ingredients in crockpot and stir to combine.

In a bowl, combine melted butter, sugar and milk in a bowl. Stir in mixed fruit. Sift flour, salt, spice, baking powder and baking soda, then stir and combine.

Carefully spoon pudding mixture evenly on top of the sauce mixture in the crockpot.

Turn heat down to low and cook for 4 hours or until the pudding is cooked in the centre.

Serve with custard or whipped cream as desired.

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 11

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ER GABRIELLE MARTELL-TURN

ily was ager, our whole fam When I was a teen and. ound the South Isl doing a road trip ar aded he d an up we packed On Christmas Day , but te ra leb ce re going to off to where we we oke the road our car br half an hour down en op ing th no solutely down. There was ab d de en h nc lu Christmas and no one to call. e th on es ch wi tter sand up being peanut bu g, yin sa d da y m r membe side of the road. I re s wa He ’. as tm this Chris ‘We'll never forget of it! ve fond memories ha y all right—I actu

HO HO! INTRODUCED AND COLLATED BY HOLLY MORTON

When it comes to Christmas, we tend to have this grand idea of how we want the day to go. Food immaculately prepared, the tree and decorations sparkling, everything in its right place, ready for our friends and family to arrive. However, like many things, Christmas Day doesn’t always go exactly to plan. Although these moments can be surprising or frustrating at the time, they often make for great stories in the years to come. On this spread are some Christmas tales of misadventure from our readers— some sweet, some a bit sad and some very strange!

One year, my mum made a delicious fudge recipe for Christmas, and it was a hit with everyone. After such a successful first attempt, the next year Mum was excited to have more fudge to give out to friends

For a few years we had no e family in th T AT RR BA N WI OD GO to RID ING same city few, e invited a w so , h it w er tmas idday dinn share Chris , to share m lk fo s, r a e tm ld s o mainly g for Chri e— ! Decoratin ething I lov at our house ble, is som ta g of e in th k y o ll o n and c especia o ti ra a p re al p but the actu ys another matter! r ca a lwa d a ha d is ha d she as quite late the foo one guest w way r, r a he ye d as on t nt rs de fi ci ac The hat flustere w e m e so th s e a nd w over. By this tim in arriving a ite as qu t no as w od fo ted.

I would have wan e all w d an wing year She settled mpany! The follo co r’s he ot ch time was enjoyed ea guest, and this a n ai ag as w car! The she had had this person badly damaged confessed that e Sh g. e same in us m io co very late happened at th as the prev nt er rn de ci co e ac m sa e th d she was quite g her, we a car accident on intersection, an set. After settlin up ite qu l as w ea d m having given year an ble to a open about not ly decorated ta ul tif au d that the be e th sat at e then recounte Sh ! ay w t! hit were far from perfec the car she had ird Christmas in th e es th di la on , off l To crown it al eir Christmas ed with a all balancing th ely late and arriv em tr ex as w e sh e were spread r laps and thes desserts on thei occupants all in the car and its right throughout -cooked dinner attire! The over their Christmas nce. d into insignifica cided not at our place fade ed, the guest de kl ar sp ns tio ra world.

The deco as well with the w l al d an n, ai to drive ag 12 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

MAJOR JANEE SAWYER

OH NO!

Christmas Spiced Fudge Supplied by Holly Morton 2 cups white sugar 2 cups brown sugar ½ cup blackstrap molasses ¼ cup glucose syrup 1 cup milk 150g butter

and family. Only, with this second year of making the fudge, everything went wrong! The mixture didn’t set properly and the consistency just wasn’t right either. Luckily, she had some vanilla ice cream in the freezer and had the brilliant idea to mix the soft fudge through it to make spiced Christmas fudge ice cream.

2 tsp ground mixed spice 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground nutmeg ½ tsp ground cardamom ½ tsp salt 1 Tbsp vanilla extract vanilla ice cream

Butter a 20 x 20cm tin and line with baking paper.

Put all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a large saucepan.

Stir continuously over low heat until sugar dissolves.

In my family I am famous for my cold Christmas pudding, and it’s lovely to have instead of a hot Ch ristmas pudding. I took this pudd ing to my sister’s for Christmas lun ch one year and it had gone mouldy.

I was so embarrassed that I lost con fidence, but I bounced back and I make it every Christmas.

Increase to medium heat and bring pan to boil. Do not stir.

It’s almost ready when fudge stops rising up sides of the pot and starts to sink back down.

Remove from heat and sprinkle vanilla extract over top.

Don’t stir.

Cool for 5 minutes.

Beat fudge until it stiffens and starts to set on sides.

Pour fudge into tin, smooth and refrigerate.

ANGELA BROOKS

If your fudge doesn’t set properly, don’t panic!

Soften the emergency vanilla ice-cream and swirl the Christmas fudge through it for a delicious, spiced ice-cream.

A great sweet option for a sunny Christmas Day.

Christmas fails from Instagram: • Cooking the roast in dishwashing liquid!

• Not checking if the mint sauce was gluten free and throwing up at a friend’s house.

I’m known in • Some of the family our family fo r my baking, year I was pre but the got food poisoning gnant with m y first child, and I mean n nothing, othing, was and missed out on working, so Christmas go I had no odies for the both Christmas lunch table. But I h a caramel sw ad made irl cheesecake that had work Christmas m and dinner! ed. orning, I wen

t to the fridge could take th so I e cheesecake out of the sp form tin. But ringfor some reas on, instead o the bottom a f holding s I released th e tin, I held o side while w n to the alking to the bench. Of co cheesecake urse, the went plop al l over the flo the tin in the or! I threw sink and stom ped to my bed pulled the co , vers over my head and crie d.

BRIDGET MCL

AY

Plus, a Christmas hack: • Plan for a grocery delivery to arrive on Christmas Eve so you don’t have to brave the supermarket.

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 13

Everybody’s Welcome at Everybody Eats

BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER, PHOTOGRAPHY THIS PAGE BY ALEX McVINNIE

What if you could enjoy a three-course meal made out of rescued food items by highly-rated chefs, and feel welcome to pay as much as you liked or were able?

Everybody Eats tackles three key issues—food waste, food poverty and social isolation—by treating customers to a dining experience which provides restaurant-quality meals, table service and space to build community, all available for whatever each person can pay, whether that is zero dollars or a koha.

Their ingredients are sourced from a range of food rescue organisations, like KiwiHarvest, Kaibosh and Good Neighbour, but they also rescue their own food through relationships with supermarkets and wholesalers. Each night, a set menu is created for each location.

It could be a starter of storm shell clam and sweetcorn fritters with citrus sour cream and sweet chilli sauce. For mains, chicken cooked in banana leaves, or lamb biryani with crispy onions. And for dessert—mandarin marshmallow with compressed pear, or carrot cake with lemon icing.

Formulating the plan Founder Nick Loosley developed Everybody Eats after researching, volunteering at and visiting a range of projects throughout the UK and Spain. They were turning vast amounts of food that would have gone to waste into meals for vulnerable people as well as paying customers. ‘I formulated what I’d call my version of their idea to replicate back in New Zealand,’ says Nick.

14 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

‘For those that don’t typically go out to restaurants or simply can’t afford to, they don’t feel any guilt, or shame or stigma around not paying, and that way we can bring everyone together into one space. We can raise awareness of food waste and food poverty with paying customers as well, who might come and say, “Oh, that food was actually delicious. I didn’t know you could make something so good with something that was apparently going to go to waste”.’

Volunteer workforce Currently, Everybody Eats operates a five-night-per-week restaurant in Onehunga, Auckland, and a three-night-per-week restaurant in Wellington City, which both employ head chefs.

‘WE REALLY ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO COME AND TRY IT, AND EAT WITH US, AND REALISE THAT EVERYBODY EATS IS FOR EVERYBODY.’

They also have a pop-up model, currently at K’ Road in Auckland City, where top chefs each volunteer their time for an evening. Everybody Eats recognises that there are only so many voluntary shifts these chefs can feasibly accept, making the popup model a better fit for them to get involved.

‘Chefs are humble, hardworking, and what we’re offering them is a chance to use their skills to do something impactful,’ he says. ‘They relate a lot better to some of the community that they’re feeding when they come to Everybody Eats.’

It also gives them a challenge when creating each night’s menu. ‘Some of them are really daunted by it,’ he says. ‘Some of them love throwing caution to the wind and giving things a crack.’

The bonds formed between the patrons and staff is critical for their model to work, making volunteers the final key ingredient of Everybody Eats. The number of volunteers varies from site to site due to capacity, but can be as many as 40 for one evening at one location.

All about people Nick believes the magic of Everybody Eats comes when all people gather over food and begin to better understand each other’s life circumstances.

‘It should be a really humbling experience for both paying and non-paying customers, because both groups of people have, in my opinion, really important realisations to make about one another,’ he says.

“I DIDN’T KNOW YOU COULD MAKE SOMETHING SO GOOD WITH SOMETHING THAT WAS APPARENTLY GOING TO GO TO WASTE.” ‘I love nothing more than seeing people from all walks of life eating food at Everybody Eats and engaging in conversations that they otherwise wouldn’t and creating friendships.’

Current Covid-19 restrictions mean they are operating with the appropriate social distancing, safety measures and mask usage (their pop-up location at K’ Road, classed as a mass gathering, is temporarily closed). Nick cannot wait until it is safe to take off masks again, as while they are a necessary safety measure, they hamper volunteers’ ability to welcome people who may be nervous about stepping into an unfamiliar space.

‘Being able to smile and welcome them is extremely important to us,’ he reasons. ‘Especially if you’re feeling apprehensive and you’re not sure what the context is, or [have] had an argument with someone on the street because you’re experiencing homelessness and you want to go somewhere safe and welcoming.’

Everybody Eats is always looking for new volunteers to facilitate hospitality and service in this space—as well as diners to come and eat. Nick says that often people mistakenly fear that by coming they are taking away a free meal from someone else.

‘If those people don’t come and pay for their meals, then we can’t feed homeless people, and we can’t build the community,’ he says. ‘We really encourage people to come and try it and eat with us, and realise that Everybody Eats is for everybody.

‘Solving food poverty with food waste is a Band Aid … where we’re not a Band Aid solution is in creating social connection and using food as a tool to bring those people together.’

MORE INFO | If you are interested in getting involved, donating or visiting an Everybody Eats restaurant, visit everybodyeats.nz for more information.

Greek watermelon, olive and ricotta salad

By Jamie Robert Johnston (Everybody Eats, Head Chef)

watermelon, cut into 1 inch thick steaks (400g) ½ telegraph cucumber, seeds removed and roughly diced red grapes, cut into halves (120g) Kalamata olives, cut into halves (100g) mint leaves, torn (10g) basil leaves, torn (10g) oregano leaves, torn (5g) 1 lemon, zested and juiced 2 Tbsp olive oil ricotta, drained and crumbled (200g) On medium heat bring the griddle pan to smoking hot.

Lightly brush the watermelon with olive oil on both sides.

Carefully place the watermelon onto the griddle pan. Using tongs turn after 1–2 minutes until you have the beautiful char marks.

Set aside to cool.

Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients.

On a medium platter arrange a layer of watermelon, herbs, grapes and olives.

Drizzle over olive oil, lemon juice and zest.

Top with ricotta and repeat the layers.

Serve at room temperature.

Great served alongside ham and cold cuts.

Serves 4–6 people.

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 15

The General’s 2021 Christmas Message ‘He is before all things, and in him all things hold together’ (Colossians 1:17, NIV).

W

hat a year 2021 has been! In these past 12 months our world has continued to face up to the challenge and reality of the Covid-19 pandemic, dealing with illness and death, as well as recovery strategies and vaccination programmes. In contrast there was the welcome relief of the Olympic and Paralympic Games which provided positive engagement, something to enjoy and an opportunity to celebrate our countries’ achievements. Of course, we have also witnessed both natural and man-made disasters and tragedies— wildfires in different countries, the assassination of a president, hurricanes and storms—each presenting significant challenges.

In recent days the Taliban has retaken control of Afghanistan, with people fleeing the country, concerns about the education of women, the potential return to the ways of former regimes and the loss of any semblance of democracy.

In such tumultuous times where, or to who, do we turn? Hebrews 13:8 tells us that we turn to Jesus, who is the same ‘yesterday and today and for ever’; whilst Colossians 1:17 describes him as the one in whom ‘all things hold together’; and Revelation 22:13 as ‘the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End’. We need to turn to the one who is wiser than we are, more compassionate than we are, more powerful than we are, who is both transcendent yet with us, and who is present in the midst of the tumult and chaos with 16 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

its resultant personal cost because, as we read in Psalm 23 and in Matthew 11 verse 28, he invites us to rest. If ever there is a time to turn to Jesus it is at Christmas, when we pause to remember and celebrate his birth, his incarnation and his becoming Immanuel (God with us).

What does all this mean? It means there is hope! It means we are not on our own! It means we have someone who can restore our souls when we are weary; someone who can give us rest when we are tired; someone who can provide an eternal perspective when the immediate is all-consuming; someone who holds us and our world together when we and it are falling apart. That truly is something worth celebrating this Christmastime. Why would we not want to get to know someone like Jesus?

If your relationship with Jesus has been neglected for a while, Christmas represents an opportune time for it to be reconnected, reignited. And if you don’t know him already, Christmastime is also an opportunity to meet Jesus for the first time—to invite him into your heart and life as saviour and friend.

Commissioner Rosalie joins me in wishing you a Happy Christmas and God’s blessings during this holy season.

Brian Peddle General

LET YOUR HEART PREPARE HIM ROOM!

Asparagus Croque Madame Serves 1

1 egg 3 asparagus spears 1 slice of white bread 1 tsp butter 1 tsp Dijon mustard 2 slices of ham 2 slices of Swiss or edam cheese pepper, to taste Place egg in a small saucepan; cover with cold water.

Cover saucepan and bring to the boil, then remove lid and boil for 5 minutes.

Drain the boiled water and place the egg under cold running water. When the egg is cool enough to handle, peel.

Meanwhile, blanch asparagus in a saucepan of boiling water, then drain.

Grill bread under a hot grill for 1 minute on each side or until golden.

Spread toasted bread with butter and mustard. Top with ham, asparagus and cheese.

Grill for 1 minute or until cheese melts.

Top with halved egg. Season to taste with pepper.

Source: countdown.co.nz

First and foremost, Julie and I want to honour you for who you are and what you have done throughout 2021 in the name of Jesus and as Te Ope Whakaora, The Salvation Army that brings life. We thank you for your exceptional devotion to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and for sharing his love with others in so many ways.

Christmas is a time when we recognise the birth of Jesus. For many of us, we will be celebrating in a different way again this year as we move into various levels of Covid-19 restrictions. Some will find themselves, as we did last Christmas Day, in a motel or hotel room trying to make the most of the hospitality given in lockdown.

Our MIQ (managed isolation and quarantine) Christmas is one we will never forget, and while we valued the motel’s efforts, it just wasn’t the same as having ham and eggs for breakfast and grazing all day on other delights, which was the norm for us as a family of eight in the suburbs of Wollongong, Australia, on any Christmas Day. Hospitality is both given and received, and as you navigate Christmas this year I ask you to pause and consider making room for the Saviour of the world in your observances this season.

My favourite carol over my officership, and one I have enjoyed leading and singing, is ‘Joy to the World’.

Joy to the world! The Lord is come; Let earth receive her King, Let every heart prepare him room And heaven and nature sing. (SASB, p.84) Luke 2 tells the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. It says in verse 7, ‘and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.’

There was no room for Jesus! But will you make room for him this Christmas?

May I suggest that you take time as you prepare to give him room in your life, in your spiritual preparation in the period of Advent as we move towards Christmas Day, and celebrate the Saviour of the world, the Saviour of our lives.

Let your heart prepare him room!

May you each experience his richest blessing this Christmas and into the New Year of 2022.

Commissioner Mark Campbell Territorial Commander CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 17

The Invitation of Hospitality Hospitality may not be your ‘gifting’ but we are all invited to participate in extending and receiving hospitality, not only during the Christmas season but all through the year.

BY MAJOR JUDITH BENNETT

I love the story of the grumpy innkeeper in Jesus’ Christmas Party by Nicolas Allan. It appeals to my vivid childlike imagination. I can almost hear him slamming the door, stomping up the stairs, crashing into bed, snoring loudly. For there was nothing he liked more than a good, long night’s sleep. But this was a very busy night—the interruptions kept coming and the innkeeper kept slamming doors, stomping up and down stairs, angrily yelling at anyone who dared to knock on his door, ‘Round the back!’

With visitors streaming into Bethlehem for the census, the innkeeper had been kept so busy he hadn’t even had time to put up the No Vacancy sign. Although he had taken a grudging kind of pity on that couple who looked so terribly vulnerable and weary and because of the young woman’s obvious pregnancy, the innkeeper just couldn’t turn them away.

After all, he reckoned the animal cave around the back wasn’t too dirty, he’d put some fresh hay in a week or two ago, and the ragged cloth would help keep the couple warm.

Considering he was an innkeeper he had absolutely no idea of hospitality. In fact, I wonder why he ever decided to work in the hospitality sector. (Come to think of it, the innkeeper is not even mentioned in Scripture, just the fact that ‘Mary wrapped the baby Jesus in strips of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room in the inn’ Luke 2:7.)

18 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

The gift of hospitality For a number of years I used to think that to have the gift of hospitality one needed to be a good cook—which I am not! I also considered that inviting people for a meal meant cleaning the house, throwing all the clutter in a cupboard and cooking a reasonable meal. Which I did!

It took me a while to learn that hospitality is not actually about spring-cleaning, or the food—although it’s part of it—but is the gift of making people feel they belong.

When my good friend Dorothy Nisbet was serving as an officer nurse at Chikankata (The Salvation Army Mission Station in Zambia), I was privileged to visit. During my stay, one of Dorothy’s nurse aides invited us for a meal. It was an unforgettable, humbling experience.

Namashoba lived on the mission station in a tiny one room home, with only enough space for a bed, a small table and a few kitchen utensils. A curtain divided the room giving space for her two children to sleep. The cooking was done outside. We sat on her bed to eat.

This beautiful Zambian lady made us feel very welcomed and provided us with a delicious meal despite the poverty in which she lived. What a significant gift of hospitality we received from her.

Namashoba’s gift of hospitality became even more poignant when I learned her husband had taken two other wives despite her thinking she would be the only wife. Sadly,

since leaving Chikankata I learned that Namashoba had contracted HIV from her husband. Not only that, but the second wife had now died of AIDS and Namashoba was caring for that wife’s son. This was absolute evidence of her undeniable, limitless Christian gift of hospitality and grace.

The welcome of hospitality From Zambia to New Zealand. Just last week the Transitional Housing team here at Invercargill Corps helped a young mum and her 4-year-old daughter move into one of our houses. She had recently suffered the tragic loss of her partner from suicide. With the approaching Christmas season we gave her a new Christmas tree and decorations, plus an invitation to our Christmas Day meal and gifts for her young daughter—our way of making her feel we care and she belongs. She sent a text message. It’s a heart-felt, grateful reply: ‘Thanks so much for everything, I was scared about Xmas, I just want her to be happy not sad that it’s just me and her without her dad. She is going to have the best Xmas. It's been a hard year but people like u all who give ur heart into your work makes us feel like there are good people who do want to help and do care about us. The load that u have taken off me is so very appreciated. It was hard when u dropped it off as didn’t want to cry again the love we feel from u all is the best gift of all…’

The practicality of hospitality Last year it was a joy and privilege for David and me to invite some of the new whānau from Wellington South Corps to share Christmas Day with us, rather than them being alone. I’m reminded that Romans 12:10 exhorts believers to ‘Share

THE CHRISTIAN HOST DESIRES THE BEST FOR THEIR GUESTS AND MAKES THEM THE FOCUS… with God’s people…practise hospitality.’

I never dreamt the day would come when I’d willingly and joyously prepare food for 21 people. Help! Hospitality in action! What did it matter if we had jelly and ice cream for dessert and not trifle or Christmas pudding with all the trimmings? What did it matter if we had luncheon sausage and lettuce salad and not roast turkey and vegetables?

What did it matter that the house wasn’t immaculate? What did it matter that I hadn't dusted for two weeks? What did matter was that we opened our hearts and received so much blessing from our brothers and sisters in Christ.

The Christian host desires the best for their guests and makes them the focus, with the primary concern of ensuring they know they belong—even if you can only afford spaghetti on toast.

The legendary innkeeper didn’t have the gift of hospitality until he actually went to the cave to check out all the comings and goings through the night, and he found himself kneeling in worship at the cradle of baby Jesus. I’d like to think that the wonder of seeing Jesus changed his heart from grumpy to gracious and he gave Mary and Joseph his own room.

Double Chocolate Cheesecake Supplied by Melissa Clark, Invercargill Corps

500g cream cheese (full fat, at room temperature) 150g Vanilla Wine biscuits 80g salted butter, melted ½ cup caster sugar 200g milk chocolate, roughly broken into pieces ½ cup thickened cream (or lightly whipped) dark chocolate shavings, to serve fresh berries, to serve Grease a 20cm springform pan.

Blitz biscuits in a food processor until they look like fine breadcrumbs.

Add melted butter. Process again for a further 10 seconds to combine.

Firmly press the crumb into the greased 20cm springform pan.

Place in the fridge for 20 minutes.

Place the cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl, beat with an electric mixer until smooth.

Melt the milk chocolate.

Add melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture, along with the thickened cream. Mix well until just combined.

Spoon over the crumb base and smooth the top with a spatula or pallet knife. Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.

Before serving, top with dark chocolate shavings, and fresh berries.

This recipe can be found at countdown.co.nz

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 19

history would witness was a visitation of the Divine.

The Bible instructs us to be hospitable. Not only at special times like Christmas but as a way of living. After the year that has been, could we commit to re-kindling this habit of hospitality and enjoy the surprising discoveries of where God is at work?

There are some treats I reserve for Christmas. This is one of my favourites.

CHOCOLATE SALAMI

BY COLONEL HEATHER RODWELL Every year we revisit the story of Christmas and we’re reminded again that Jesus was born into a time in history that was politically fraught. The mandating of a census was at the most inconvenient time for a young couple expecting their first child.

To then arrive at an overcrowded Bethlehem where ‘No Vacancy’ signs hung on every door, was surely the final straw.

Thankfully one hotelier assessed their situation and offered a most unlikely solution (a place where livestock were kept).

At least it was shelter and a place to lay their heads. It wasn’t much, but he offered what he had.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas this year, many of us find our resources depleted. Emotionally, the disruptions have created uncertainty, and we are weary of making plans then having them cancelled—the weight of accumulated disappointments is real. Financially, many are feeling the stretch and relationships are under pressure.

What will it take for us to open our hearts and homes to others and their inconvenient requests for us to take them in?

Will we find within ourselves a willingness to share what we have, even if it’s an unlikely solution? Imagine the story that hotelier told for years to come about the baby born in his backyard, which GAZETTE Promotion to Glory: Major Jocelyn (Jossie) Gordon on Wednesday 24 November 2021, from Palmerston North Hospital, aged 70 years. Jocelyn Hazel Foothead was born in Masterton on 16 July 1951. In February of 1977, Jossie married Raymond (Ray) Gordon and with their family entered officer training from Naenae Corps, as a cadet in the Guardians of Truth session in 1984. After their commissioning on 18 January 1986, Jossie and Ray were appointed corps officers, Queenstown Corps. Corps officer appointments followed to Miramar Corps (1990) and Ōamaru Corps (1994). In 1996, Jossie and Ray were appointed to Wellington Community and Family Services where Jossie’s appointment was assistant officer, with an additional appointment to Wellington Hospital as assistant chaplain. In 2001, Jossie and Ray were appointed as corps officers, Mana Corps, before being appointed to the Central Divisional Headquarters in 2008, with Jossie appointed divisional secretary for Retired Officers. Jossie received additional appointments in October 2008, as assistant officer, Wellington Community and Family Services and assistant chaplain, Wellington Hospital. In August 2010, Jossie and Ray were appointed to Porirua Community and Family Services, with Jossie appointed as assistant officer and it is from this appointment that Jossie and Ray retired on 30 August 2011. Please remember in prayer Major Ray Gordon, their children Michelle, Christy and Andrew, and other members of the extended family at this time of grief and loss. Well done, good and faithful Guardian of the Truth of Jesus Christ!

20 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

1 packet of gingernut biscuits ½ packet chopped glacé cherries— red or green (or mix of both) dark chocolate (150g) butter (50g) 1 beaten egg icing sugar, to dust Crush one packet of gingernut biscuits (finely).

Add ½ packet chopped glace cherries— red or green (or mix of both).

Melt together the dark chocolate and butter.

Add 1 beaten egg.

Mix all together, then form a log on greaseproof paper, rolling tightly, and leaving to set in the fridge.

Dust with icing sugar; cut very finely to serve.

ENJOY!

QUIKQUIZMAS 1 Christstollen is a traditional bread with bits of candied fruits, raisins, walnuts and almonds and spices which originates from which country?

2 The most popular toy of 1980 was designed by a professor of architecture in Budapest to teach his students about spatial awareness.

What is it called?

3 According to the Guinness Book of Records, the world’s largest gingerbread man weighed how much? a) 651kg b) 451kg c) 1251kg 4 How many reindeer are mentioned by name in the poem ’Twas the night before Christmas?

5 In the Christmas film Home Alone, the two burglars were played by Daniel Stern and which other actor?

6 Which Christmas song was originally written

by Noel Regney and his wife Gloria Shayne Baker as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis?

Answers this page

Want to Know More?

Christmas word search Can you find these Christmas-related words in the grid below? They could be forward, backward, up, down or diagonal.

P D G N G C O Z M H G C

E S E Z O Q W I O I X X

A A R C L S S H N A V U

C N F O E T A G H H U J

E T R E L M E E T S T K

S A S E S R B A S D M R

GINGERBREAD DECEMBER STOCKING SEASON PEACE CAROL EVE

C P T N B T E E S R O M

U O A R M R I V R A G Q

E K E R W N Q V O C S S

C A N D L E S I E L N T

D T S G R H R H V J F N

S T O C K I N G E V K V

MISTLETOE FESTIVE CANDLES WREATH SANTA CARDS LOVE

I would like: to learn about who Jesus is information about The Salvation Army The Salvation Army to contact me prayer for the following needs:

Find SALVATION ARMY JOB OPPORTUNITIES:

salvationarmy.org.nz/employment Name Email Address Phone Send to: warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz or War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141

PRAY Red Shield House, Suva; Fiji School for Officer Training, sewing programmes in Labasa and

Suva, Suva Court and Prison Service, Suva Family Care Centre and Tiny Tots Kindergartens around Fiji, The Salvation Army in Switzerland, Austria and Hungary.

Quiz Answers: 1 Germany, 2 Rubik's Cube, 3 a) 651kg, 4 Eight (Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen), 5 Joe Pesci, 6 Do You Hear What I Hear?

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 21

Can you spot 10 differences?

What falls at the North Pole and never gets hurt?

Snow

Can you find two identical donkeys?

Add some colour!

IDENTICAL DONKEYS: 2 & 8.

22 WarCry CHRISTMAS 2021

Tiny Teddy Christmas Sleighs Large candy canes 100g chocolate melts Tiny Teddy biscuits

Mini Milky Way bars (or Mini Moro or Mars bars)

Place the chocolate into a bowl to melt in the microwave for one minute. Make sure it is sticky rather than runny.

‘But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.’

LUKE 14:13–14

Place a layer of baking paper over a tray to sit your sleighs on. Peel plastic off candy canes, and place on the sheet in pairs.

Spoon a little bit of melted chocolate on the back of a Milky Way bar and sit the Milky Way on a pair of candy canes. Adjust the candy canes so that the hooked ends are standing straight up.

(Tip: Once the candy canes can stand without holding them, put the sled in the fridge to finish setting the chocolate.)

Have an adult use a knife to trim the legs off of a Tiny Teddy biscuit. Dab a little bit of melted chocolate onto the cut edge of the Tiny Teddy and sit on top of the Milky Way. Hold until it is firmly attached.

Brownies in a Jar 1-litre glass jar 1 ¼ cup plain flour 1 tsp salt 1 tsp baking powder 2/3 cup cocoa powder ¾ cup brown sugar (firmly packed)

¾ cup white sugar ¾ cup milk chocolate chips ¾ cup white chocolate chips 100g walnuts, roughly chopped (optional)

Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl and mix to combine.

Using a spoon, carefully add each ingredient one by one, to make layers.

Seal the lid tightly and add a gift tag with the instructions: ‘Line an 18 x 28cm baking tin.

Place all ingredients into a bowl and add 150g melted butter and 3 eggs to mix.

Bake at 180°C for 25–30 minutes (or until cooked through).’

One of the most simple but meaningful gestures Jesus used to share his heart towards others was by sharing meals and breaking bread with them. It didn’t matter who they were, or if they were considered outcasts in society—Jesus wanted to sit beside them at the table.

He set a great example for us to follow during this Christmas season. This year, there could be people without a family to celebrate Christmas with, or who are unable to travel home to see their loved ones. This provides a perfect opportunity to show people how they are cared for, by inviting them to share in one of the year’s most important celebrations.

If your family is welcoming someone new to your table this year, embrace this chance to show them the love and hospitality that Jesus came to earth to demonstrate. Break a Christmas cracker with them, make sure they are included in the family banter and, yes, even offer them that last slice of pudding.

I WONDER...

What are some other ways you can love your neighbours throughout the Christmas season?

CHRISTMAS 2021 WarCry 23