FAITH IN ACTION  16 NOVEMBER 2019 | Issue 6730 | $1.50
INSPIRE 2019 Parenting: Boys to Men
Mobster to Man of God CELEBRATING ASPIRE! Putting Period Poverty in the Spotlight
From Dark Places To
Transformation
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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. ACTING EDITOR Major Shar Davis | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Tanesha Dahya | STAFF WRITERS Captain Jules Badger, Louise Parry, Bethany Slaughter | PROOF READING
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. 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 6730 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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Transformation One of the great joys of this appointment is being up close and personal with people’s stories. Everyone has a story to tell, and I have the privilege to listen and communicate these stories through print—I’ve been in interviews where ‘professional’ Shar has had to tell ‘regular’ Shar to keep it together! An absolute highlight of Congress for me was listening to people sharing their own stories—stories of transformation. Around the four nations of our territory and across the breadth of Salvation Army mission and ministry, lives are being changed, people are being transformed and futures are being created. In this edition’s feature you will meet Sia and Sene Poutoa from Papakura Corps. Their lives have been transformed through encountering Jesus. They are now being used by God to transform their community—such a wonderful example of the redemptive power of God. You’ll also get to read an excerpt of Major Sue Hay’s Thought Matters submission about the process of falling apart, in order to flourish. The caterpillar and butterfly are often used as an illustration for the process of transformation, but the process is so much cooler than I ever knew. Like so many things in nature, it points me towards Creator God. It is incredibly complex and perfectly designed. As we move from spring into summer, we see God ‘showing off’ his love for the transformation process. And while I absolutely love seeing Chinese blossoms and Pouhutakawa trees begin to flower—because that means Christmas is coming—the personal transformation stories people share will always have the greatest impact, and where I see God at his best. Shar Davis Assistant Territorial Communications Secretary
Beautiful are those whose brokenness gives birth to transformation and wisdom. John Mark Green
2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun. 2 Koriniti 5:17 Nā ki te mea kei roto i a te Karaiti tētahi, he mahinga hou ia: kua pahemo ngā mea tawhito, nā, kua hou ngā mea katoa.
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’ve been taking a trip down memory lane, as I pack up my life in preparation for my move to Auckland. It’s been fun finding cards and letters from childhood friends, old photos of school days and memorabilia from more recent days. It has provided an opportunity for reflection—I have certainly changed over the years. Some transformations are more significant and speedy. This Time Next Year is a television programme where participants pledge to achieve a monumental personal goal over the next 12 months. Some of the transformations have included 76-yearold Barbara from Brisbane who wanted to dance en pointe (on the tips of your toes), Riley from Sydney who wanted to overcome a serious stutter to do a speech at university, single mother Amy from Woolongong wanted to become a firefighter, and a mother and daughter duo, pledge to lose 100kg. The transformations are quite incredible and it’s awesome to be able to look back and see how far they have come. They are able to sit there and say, ‘this time last year ...’ and celebrate the transformation. Each year we have a Christmas Appeal, this year running for four weeks from Monday 18 November. The theme, ‘This Time Last Year’ celebrates the incredible transformation of two people who have called Epsom Lodge home. Sia and Lex share very honestly about how far they have come in 12 months. Another area of transformation is our Aspire programme. Check out the Firezone pages for an update about Aspire. Individual young people and families are being transformed through the important work of the programme.
Have you ever wanted to run a marathon? Do you think that you could say ‘this time next year I will run the New York marathon’? Perhaps it’s been a goal that’s felt out of reach, or something you’d like to do, but you struggle to find the motivation. The Salvation Army is calling for people to join the team and run the New York Marathon in November 2020, to fundraise for the Aspire programme. It’s a chance to embrace your own transformation—perhaps from couch potato to athlete—and get involved in supporting a really successful and important aspect of Salvation Army mission within New Zealand. You won’t be on your own, as there will be a team of people training, raising money and getting nervously excited as they count down to November 1, 2020. You can find more information at https:// www.salvationarmy.org.nz/help-us/appeals-events/ new-york-marathon. Transformation can happen over a long period of time, it can happen over a year and it can happen in an instant. Part of our mission statement is ‘transforming lives’ and we believe this happens with the power of God’s Holy Spirit. There are opportunities for transformation every day. Will you consider supporting our Christmas Appeal this year by donating? That’s an immediate opportunity. And how about seriously considering your own ‘this time next year’ challenge by signing up to run the New York Marathon in 2020. We change the world the way we complete a marathon—one step at a time! BY SHAR DAVIS
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Walking Samoans —Papakura Corps In July 2018, Sia and Sene Poutoa—soldiers of Papakura Corps—prayed and fasted for 40 days, seeking God’s direction on how they could reach their local community. The ‘Walking Samoans’ group was the result. Beginning as an outreach with exercise and health being the drawcard, Walking Samoans soon grew into a large community prayer meeting. Currently, locals gather on Friday night for a Zumba class, and then Saturday night is a prayer meeting for anyone who wants to participate. Seventy people from about eight local churches gather together to pray and encourage one another. ‘We praise God because this is how God is bringing Samoan people to Jesus. Some of our Walking Samoan families have now made Papakura Salvation Army their home. They feel the freedom here,’ says Sene.
TOPFIVE Following recent news that KFC are trialling a donut and chicken burger in the US, check out some of these weird hybrid foods. 1. Ramen Burger: these burgers replace the bread with a ‘bun’ made of ramen noodles. 2. Vegemite Chocolate: this limited-time-only flavour from Cadbury was either loved or shunned by Australians, but don’t worry—the filling was a caramel sauce flavoured with the spread, not solid Vegemite. 3. Chocolate Éclair Hot Dog: Yup, this Canadian monstrosity sees a grilled sausage placed inside a sliced-open chocolate éclair and topped with whipped cream (and sprinkles!).
Corps Officer, Lieutenant Chonny Bryan says, ‘This is massive—the Spirit of God is right at the centre of this growing and powerful ministry. When we trust godly people with leadership—people God has clearly anointed for ministry—God is free to do his thing. It doesn’t have to be the officers running everything.
4. Nutellasagne: This sweet lasagne made of pasta, marshmallows, crushed hazelnuts, custard and the popular choc-hazelnut spread, created by pastry chef Allison Robicelli, gets extra points for its name. 5. The Cronut: This nowfamous, delicious combination of a croissant and donut was invented by famous pastry chef Dominique Ansel, inspiring a bunch of lookalikes (we’re looking at you, Cruffins). Image Credit: Maple Lodge Farms
‘From time to time cultural nuances mean that communication is really crucial. But we are careful not to quench the Spirit over trivialities. God is clearly in this—you can see it—so we work together and move forward keeping the Spirit at the centre.’ Sia says, ‘We are so thankful to God and The Salvation Army Papakura for making the entire building available for this ministry. Praise God!’
WARCRYINHISTORY
Just like the brass band, the timbrel has been an important piece of The Salvation Army’s musical history. This photo, which appeared in the 18 November 1950 War Cry, celebrated the Napier Timbrel Brigade, ‛an established section doing a good job in the Corps’, said then-Corps Officer Captain Howard Orsborn. Source: Booth College of Mission Heritage and Archives Centre
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Weird of the Week: Pteronophobia is a fear of being tickled by feathers.
QUIKQUIZ 1 Where in the world is To-Sua Ocean Trench? 2 What is the capital of Haiti?
SALLIEOF THEWEEK Jean Ng, Flat Bush Corps Plant Jean moved to Auckland from Malaysia in 2018, and volunteers as a welfare worker and translator at the Flat Bush Corps Plant in East Auckland. She loves Thursday morning English classes, where most of the students are migrant seniors from Asia. Lt Jessica Londhe has nothing but praise for Jean and her ministry. ‘Jean is a hands-on person and in a very short span of time, our Asian students have come to trust and love her. We love Jean’s passion for God, her love for people and her “can do” attitude. She is such an asset to our team.’
3 What is the collective noun for buffalo? 4 What year did Fiji become an independent nation? 5 What is the Sea of Galilee called in the Gospel of John? Answers on page 22
Apricot, Almond and Orange Bliss Balls 1 cup dried apricots 100g ground almonds ¼ cup sunflower seeds 1 Tbsp desiccated coconut, plus ⅓ cup for coating
Place apricots, ground almonds, sunflower seeds, coconut and orange zest in a food processor and combine until the mixture is like a fine crumb texture. Add honey, coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of water, then pulse*. Roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls approximately 3cm in diameter. Roll in desiccated coconut to coat and chill in fridge for about 1 hour until firm.
Zest of 1 orange 1 Tbsp honey 3 Tbsp coconut oil
Store bliss balls in an air-tight container in the fridge. To pulse means to mix ingredients in a food processor using bursts of power in short intervals.
*
Source: countdown.co.nz
Drama/Sport/Biography Ride Like A Girl (PG) Directed by Rachel Griffiths
Ride Like A Girl tells the story of Australian jockey Michelle Payne, the first woman to win the Melbourne Cup. The film sidesteps many controversies surrounding the horse-racing industry—soberingly, depicted winning horse trainer Darren Weir was charged with animal cruelty during post-production, but Payne’s 2015 race was cleared of wrongdoing. The focus of the film is the issue of gender discrimination. The film feels rushed at times, a side-effect of squeezing in the many turning points of Payne’s career—including the deaths of her mother and sister, her own near-fatal accident and countless incidents of sexism—into the running time. However, the film hits its stride (pun intended) when she meets her partner-in-crime, New Zealand-bred thoroughbred Prince of Penzance, with the finale capturing the giddiness of the ‘Race That Stops A Nation’. Teresa Palmer and Sam Neill star, but it’s Michelle’s brother Stevie Payne, playing himself, who steals the show. (Reviewed by Bethany Slaughter) 16 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 5
Mobster to
MAN OF GOD
The transformation from fully-patched Mongrel Mob member to Salvation Army soldier, required a praying wife and divine intervention. Sia and Sene Poutoa share their incredible story with War Cry. BY JULES BADGER
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ne night, fully-patched Notorious Mongrel Mob member, Sia Poutoa, came home late after a party. Through an open window, Sia saw his wife, Sene, and two eldest daughters huddled together praying. He stood outside listening as Sene prayed: ‘Lord please take Sia out of the gang. And please can you make the drugs and alcohol taste like poison to him’. ‘I went into the house and laughed at them for praying for me,’ Sia recalls. ‘But that was the turning point,’ he affirms.
A rough start Sia and Sene migrated to New Zealand from Samoa in 1997 with their two young daughters. With English as a second language, both struggled to gain employment that mirrored the good office jobs they’d enjoyed in Samoa. Sia ended up labouring while studying at Manukau Institute of Technology, eventually working for the City Council. But it was a frustrating season, and Sia sought solace in alcohol and drugs. On a mission to source a new marijuana dealer, Sia encountered the Mongrel Mob for the first time in 2000. Lucky to be alive after a violent altercation at gang headquarters, Sia proved himself patch worthy, and was an active member of the Notorious Chapter for the next decade. Sia was often gone from home for days at a time, leaving Sene at home with their growing, young family. ‘I would get so mad and throw things at him, but everything changed when I started to pray instead,’ she explains with a smile.
Deliverance Salvation came to Sene and the children first, through the ministry of Nicky Cruz—former head of New York gang, the Maumaus, and author of bestseller Run Baby Run. Organisers of an Auckland outreach event in 2007 engaged the services of the Notorious Chapter to provide security for the event. Sia was one of those men. ‘I had one ticket left, so I gave it to Sene. She was shocked to be invited to something gang-related, but she came with the girls. Nicky shared his testimony and two of my daughters went forward to receive Jesus as their Saviour.’ Nicky Cruz also spoke candidly about the Mormon church—which Sene was attending—urging anyone attending to leave and find a Christ-centred church. ‘My wife was at the wrong church, I was going the wrong way—but salvation came to my family through my kids,’ Sia testifies. 16 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 7
The older girls started attending the Samoan New Life Christian Church in Manurewa, immediately. A flyer for the church was pinned to the wall in the kitchen at the family home. One day Sene collapsed. ‘I asked Sia to call an ambulance,’ she recalls. ‘But he saw the number on the wall and called the pastor instead. People came and prayed for deliverance and I felt this heavy burden fall off me. They prayed for the Holy Spirit to fill me and I felt something new.’ Sene started going to church with the girls and joined a prayer group. ‘God renewed my mind and brought peace to my heart. Those Samoan ladies knew how to pray. God’s presence was so strong in those meetings—Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord. That’s how we started every meeting. It was spiritual warfare, and God fought the battle for Sia as we prayed for him,’ Sene explains.
‘GOD RENEWED MY MIND AND BROUGHT PEACE TO MY HEART. THOSE SAMOAN LADIES KNEW HOW TO PRAY.’
and I felt heat in my feet and legs. Voices were warring in my head, but one was louder and kept urging me to go forward. I stood up and as I moved the heat left my body and my head cleared. As I walked to the front, peace came down on me. I will never forget that day—I accepted Jesus and was reborn.’
Tried and tested Although a new Christian, Sia was still a fully patched lifemember of the Mongrel Mob and no one just up-and-leaves after a decade, and certainly not with their life. ‘I was going to church every Sunday with my family, but I was lying to God, as I would ask his forgiveness and just go backwards again. It was hard on Sene because she was pregnant at the time. One day God warned me about what would happen if I didn’t stop this back-and-forth life I was living. I opened my Bible to Proverbs 29:1, “If you are stubborn every time you are corrected, one day you will be crushed and never recover”. I was shocked because I knew the Holy Spirit was speaking directly to me. ‘Sene went into labour, and everything went wrong. Her life was in danger, and so was the baby’s. I had to choose—and I chose Sene, because we had lots of kids. But I went to the altar at church and prayed to God, asking his forgiveness and begging God to help me to get out of the mob. I couldn’t do it on my own.’
Answered prayer
A special Christmas gift
In 2009 Sene bought Sia new clothes for his birthday, and urged him to come to church. ‘I hadn’t been to church in seven years,’ Sia recalls. ‘I knew Sene really wanted me to come along that day, but I went to a mate’s place to have a party. Not long after I started drinking, something felt wrong in my body and I remembered Sene praying that the drugs and alcohol would taste like poison. ‘I went and put on my new clothes and started walking to church. I could hardly walk straight. I could hear people laughing and I wanted to smack them. But I heard another voice saying, “keep walking”. ‘I sat down the back of the church. I smelt like alcohol and with the dreadlocks I had in those days, it was obvious I was a gang member. But my girls, who were in the worship team, came and hugged me and sat with me. ‘It felt like the preacher was speaking directly to me. But I couldn’t move, I felt so much shame. My heart was beating fast,
Sene and Sia prayed and fasted for three days—it was Christmas 2010. ‘I heard the Holy Spirit say to buy a Bible for my gang president Roy Dunn as a Christmas gift, wrap it nicely and take it to him in person,’ Sia says. ‘When I visited Roy, I said nothing about my intentions because the Holy Spirit whispered to me to just leave the gift and go home.’ Roy phoned saying, ‘I can’t believe you gave me a Bible. My Dad started crying when the gift was unwrapped and told me this was a very special gift—and that I need to listen to you.’ Sia explained that God had told him to give Roy the Bible for a reason. ‘Please, I need to leave the gang,’ he said. But Roy was furious, reminding Sia that membership was for life and that this request could cost him his life. Sia quietly asked again, and this time Roy said he would think about it. Roy got in contact in the new year, explaining that Sia’s name was the last item on the annual general meeting agenda.
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Sene and Sia (centre) with members of their family.
Amazingly Roy hadn’t told anyone about Sia’s request. ‘On the day of the meeting Sene prayed with me and God gave me peace and took away my fear. But we said our goodbyes just in case I didn’t come home.’
Divine intervention ‘When Roy shared my request, all the members were angry. I waited for the order to beat me, but instead Roy called for a private meeting. That was when the Holy Spirit put the idea of Bible College in my head. This was completely left field and I didn’t like it! But I obeyed and when I was asked my reason for wanting to leave, I replied that I wanted to go to Bible College.’ Sia was asked, ‘Like Nicky Cruz?’ Incredulous, he replied, ‘Maybe like Nicky, yeah.’ Roy decided Sia could leave the gang to go to Bible College. ‘God had a plan and intervened with a miracle. He is my protector—I could have been killed. But I thank God that I’m alive!’
‘PRAYER IS SUCH A POWERFUL WEAPON—PRAYING FOR SOMEONE IS THE MOST LOVING GIFT YOU CAN GIVE.’
A Soldier for God Sia attended the AOG Bible College in Papatoetoe, which culminated in a tour to Israel during the fourth and final year of the course. While in Israel, God told Sia to start attending the church right behind his house—which was The Salvation Army Papakura Corps. ‘I didn’t want to go there—I wanted to go to a Samoan church, not an English church. But I obeyed, and dragged my family along. At first, I didn’t like it at all,’ Sia laughs. ‘There were lots of old white people and I sat down the back thinking I would leave as soon as church was over.’ But Lieutenant Nicky Dutton intercepted the family’s exit with a handshake and warm welcome. Lieutenant Steve Dutton got chatting with Sia and asked him where he lived. Sia confessed he lived just over the back fence and that the Holy Spirit had told him to come. Sia watched as his three-year-old son shook hands with an elderly woman and knew his family had found their new church home.
Tragically, that same little boy— Roy Taau Redeemed Nathaniel—passed away at the beginning of 2018. Sia’s faith was tested again, but God has given him peace. ‘We had nine babies, but have only seven children. But we thank God because seven is God’s special number in the Bible,’ he reflects.
Paying respect
Sia became a soldier of the Papakura Corps in 2015. Meanwhile, his former gang president passed away from terminal cancer. Steve and Nicki supported Sia as he prepared to pay his respects. ‘When I arrived at the marae in uniform all the members were amazed. They welcomed me and invited me to lead Roy’s body to the urupā (cemetery). Being a Salvationist was part of God’s plan—they could see the change. The mob have respect for the uniform and the work of the Army—and now all the mobsters in the community know me and have respect for me as a Salvationist, so I thank God for everything he has done. ‘And I thank God for Sene—my praying wife. Prayer is such a powerful weapon—praying for someone is the most loving gift you can give,’ Sia affirms with a huge smile.
Last year Sia and Sene fasted for forty days together, seeking God for the Papakura community, and then birthed ‘The Walking Samoans’ group featured in the front of this issue.
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Parenting: Boys to Men Bringing up boys can be a challenging experience, but internationally acclaimed psychologist and author Steve Biddulph is on hand to help, Julie Houghton writes. Twenty-five years ago Steve Biddulph wrote Raising Boys, which made its way into two million homes across the world. But the world has changed since then, so Biddulph decided an updated version of Raising Boys was needed. It’s well known that boys bond with their mothers until they are about six, after which they want to be like their father and win his approval. By 14, with testosterone ramping up, boys look beyond the family to other adults. Biddulph now adds that new research has shown that baby boys in utero and until 12 months of age are prone to anxiety that can harm their brain growth. ‘Their brains grow more slowly than girls and are less hardy at this age, which may be one of the reasons behind the problems we have with violence, crime and addiction in men, which are all much higher than in women,’ Biddulph tells WarCry. Biddulph says that, in neurological terms, boys don’t mature until their mid-20s, and generally lag about two years behind girls. But all is not doom and gloom, because with the right role models boys can grow into wonderful individuals. Biddulph says that all humans learn from role modelling because attitudes and values are embodied in people—we have to see them in action to take them into our own lives. ‘We learn from people who we sense like us, and value us and see the good in us. This is why the work of The Salvation Army is so effective—because it’s personal,’ Biddulph says. Since he wrote the original Raising Boys, Biddulph says that exposure to pornography has become a major issue, and it miseducates boys about how love works. He says pornography is impersonal, often abusive, and doesn’t include any real communication between partners. ‘The problems are threefold—the miseducation, the addictive nature of porn which damages the ability to relate to real girls, and the abusive nature which creates a kind of soul death and a loss of respect for women, and for love itself.’ So how do we address this extremely significant problem of the 21st century? Biddulph says that adults have to become empowered to talk without embarrassment with their boys, which comes from having good information and not being judgmental.
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‘WE LEARN FROM PEOPLE WHO WE SENSE LIKE US, AND VALUE AND SEE THE GOOD IN US.’ ‘Talking honestly and openly, that sex is great and it needs care, and telling the ways porn differs from real lovemaking. And not having internet-connected devices in bedrooms, so that addiction can’t develop,’ he explains. Biddulph regards this issue as so important he has devoted a whole chapter in Raising Boys in the 21st Century with information on how to teach the difference to our kids. However, alongside this, there is a positive side to being a male in the 21st century. ‘We don’t put boys in boxes any more. There are many different ways to be a boy. And boys can show their feelings, and be real, vulnerable and turn into wonderful men.’ For details of Raising Boys in the 21st Century go to stevebiddulph.com Reprinted with permission from WarCry Australia.
TESTIFY! After nearly thirty years in and out of prison, a heart attack was the wake-up call that brought Shane Pritchard to the Wellington South Bridge Programme. I was raised in Ōamaru. When I was five years old, I got placed in foster care, where I was sexually and mentally abused. I grew up in various foster and social welfare family homes, and later, the Lookout Point Boys Home in Dunedin. I was treated like a doormat. From there, it escalated to crime and I joined the Mongrel Mob. I was imprisoned several times, and I got tattooed up to scare people. Eventually, I moved to join the Wellington Mongrel Mob, but ended up in jail again. We went to church a couple times, just to get out of our cells and eat some biscuits. I wasn’t there to see God. My final imprisonment was in 2017. I had just gotten out of jail and was addicted to synthetic cannabis. I was arrested for aggravated burglary; the guy came home, and I threw his TV at him. I went to jail in November, then had a heart attack in December. I died twice on the way to the Hutt Hospital. When I got back to my cell, I thought ‘there must be someone watching over me. He didn’t want me to die.’ I decided I didn’t want my kids telling people that their dad died in jail, so I asked for residential care. We got the right judge, who sent me to the Bridge programme in April 2018. I grew up with Tangi Noomotu, who runs the Wellington South Bridge programme. He took me in straight away. I was supposed to be there nine weeks, but I stayed for sixteen, and graduated in August. I started volunteering at Wellington South Corps while I was there. I work at the Foodbank, reception and drop-in centre.
I WANT TO BE AN INSPIRATION TO OTHERS IN MY OLD LIFE WHO THINK THEY CAN’T GET HELP. I also take care of the veggie garden and wash the cars. I recently graduated from the Alpha course. It was my second certificate ever, after the Bridge programme. I’ve got a good relationship with my kids. They video call me every day, and I can visit them whenever I like. My eldest is Damien, he’s 15 and I’ve had custody of him since he was six weeks old, Angel is 12, and Axel is 3. They all live with Angel and Axel’s mother. I just bought them heaps of Nike gear. It was supposed to be for Christmas, but I just brought it out. I love them to the max. Everything is so perfect, it’s scary. I’ve had little slip-ups, but if I feel like I’m going to slip, I’ll ring someone. I’ve got the best support I’ve ever had.
Once, I was walking past the bottle store. I had a craving for a Steinlager, but my feet started feeling hotter and hotter. I knew the devil was trying to come up, so I just took my shoes and socks off, and walked home. The Salvation Army offered to get my tattoos lasered off, but they’re part of my journey. Wellington South Corps is where I was reborn, and it’s my family. After I took all those years out of the community by hurting and stealing from people, it feels so good to put something back in. I want to be an inspiration to others in my old life who think they can’t get help. You don’t have to hunt for God, because he’s always with you. God’s my president, and I’m one of his soldiers.
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Celebrating Aspire! Since 2015, The Salvation Army has been partnering with local schools across Aotearoa to help build stronger and more resilient young people through the Aspire programme. BY JULES BADGER
‘There are certainly a few “out there” stories of Aspire graduates going on to play in the NRL and the like, but on the whole, the programme’s success sits within the stories of ordinary kiwi young people who are making good life choices and genuinely contributing back to their whānau and society in a positive way,’ says Michael Smith, Aspire National Co-ordinator.
Impacting a generation Over 2000 young Aspire participants now hold claim to The Salvation Army across Aotearoa. 12 firezone.co.nz 16 NOVEMBER 2019
‘There’s a sense of belonging to The Salvation Army playing out among Aspire students. It’s happening in a different way to what we’ve traditionally seen as belonging—a new way—but it’s happening and that’s well worth celebrating, building on and investing into,’ says Michael. It’s hard to disagree—after all, who knows what God will do with that sense of ownership? ‘As a Salvation Army programme that’s producing tangible results in the lives of young people, Aspire offers a real point of difference for schools,’ Michael explains. ‘Principals talk and the programme’s reputation is starting to speak for itself. The wider wrap-around support the Army can offer a student and their whānau, such as budgeting and food parcels, counselling and social work support is a real plus.’ In a very real sense, the Aspire programme is an example of The Salvation Army adapting appropriately to the changing landscape of ‘religion in schools’ in the 21st century. ‘We have good systems around youth work training and practice, safety and professionalism, but we’re still a faithbased programme. We’re not pushing a Christian agenda, but taking a holistic approach to the care of young people. Conversations around spirituality are woven differently into the fibre of the programme, depending on the school,’ Michael affirms. And of course, some young people are finding a spiritual home within the Army. In Whangārei as many as 60 percent of Aspire students have connected into the corps junior youth group.
Evidence-informed approach The Aspire programme itself is founded on evidence-informed youth development practice, and uses The Circle of Courage model developed in indigenous American settlements and post-apartheid South Africa. There are four development stages to the model: Belonging, Mastery, Independence and Generosity. A school term is made up of a module of eight sessions centred around each stage.
The Circle of Courage has been simple to articulate, and its effectiveness has resulted in strong buy-in from schools, whānau and students throughout Aotearoa. ‘A third of Aspire students are Māori, another third are Pasifika, with a mix of European and other ethnicities comprising the rest,’ Michael reports. ‘We evaluate the programme using 32 indicators. Students evaluate their own resilience rating target phrases like “I give up easily” and “I’m scared to fail.” This year’s data shows a 32 percent improvement in the wellbeing of participants—that’s a solid indicator of programme effectiveness.’
More than a programme But Aspire is more than a just an effective programme. ‘All youth workers know it’s the conversations in the van that provide the real opportunities to influence the lives of young people. Our facilitators have great qualifications and experience, but it’s the heart investment beyond the programme that makes the difference— being a sports coach, parent help on a school trip, or working to connect a young person to a local corps or centre programme,’ Michael affirms. And of course, the programme looks different across the country and between schools. ‘For example,’ Michael explains, ‘In Whangārei the team are using pouwhenua and taiaha and adapting the sequencing of The Circle of Courage to
suit the interest area of the students. In Auckland we have a few places using Pasifika dance as the key medium. The sequencing of experiential learning and de-briefing is still threaded through, but the medium for learning those skills is dance.’
Stories from the deep south Aspire facilitator Stacey Watkins of Invercargill Corps reports that, ‘I’ve seen students thrive and move forward in their communication skills, support others and try new things that they never would have attempted before. Each week students shine a little more and choose to participate at a deeper level. ‘We had the pleasure of taking all of the Aspire students to Southern Easter Camp, where one of the young people gave their heart to the Lord. With the support of Invercargill Corps, the students also had the opportunity to attend Southern Youth Councils, which further developed a couple of young people in their faith, and enabled them to deepen friendships made at Easter Camp.’ One Invercargill student says, ‘I like Aspire as I get to do creative learning and experiences I haven’t done before. I enjoyed the camp at BMAC, aka Big Mac!’ Another says, ‘This programme has given me skills I can take into my life journey. I have learned a lot about myself and how I can achieve things I set my mind to. BMAC was my highlight as I got over my fear of tight spaces—I loved the weta in the cave!’
Financial supporters Aspire has been funded predominantly through Warehouse Stationery’s ‘Add a Dollar’ campaign, with another smaller portion coming from The Salvation Army Jeff Farm Trust. But with growing interest in Aspire, and each programme costing $10K to run (conservatively), funding can be tricky. ‘Aspire is not a funding stream, but a programme framework. Our financial priorities are first and foremost resources for the programme, then camp support, and finally some support for facilitators if we can manage it. Corps and centre that can sustain the financial support of their facilitators locally provide the strongest model for Aspire success and longevity.’ Michael explains.
A moment of pride Generosity 100
80
60
40
“I believe I have something to contribute to the world.”
At the start of the module After completing the module
When asked what he’s most proud of about Aspire, Michael says, ‘The young people who were participants themselves and have gone on to train, qualify and serve as youth workers. Some are even now Aspire Facilitators.’
“I would like to volunteer time to something.”
At the start of the module After completing the module “I want to help others.”
20
At the start of the module After completing the module
0
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INSPIRE 2019
Hundreds gather at Clarance St Theatre in Hamilton for Inspire Brass Band Festival, featuring Australian vocalists Lauren and Aaron Stobie. The Inspire Brass Band Festival—founded in 2017 by Captain Close to 400 people came together for Saturday night’s event, Marcus Collings and the Hamilton City Salvation Army—took which started with a very enthusiastic Hamilton City Junior place over the weekend of 21–22 September at Clarence St Band playing in the foyer as concert-goers arrived. Theatre in Hamilton. Compèred by Captain Marcus Collings, the programme The biannual festival weekend has a twofold purpose. It commenced with Hamilton City playing ‘A Mighty Fortress’ is designed to bring together Salvation Army musicians— and ‘All that I am’, which included a Euphonium duet by Sarah particularly our brass bands—in a way that offers encouragement Carroll and Kim Bracegirdle. Palmerston North Corps band to all involved. At the same time, Salvationist bandspeople share played ‘Shine on Us’, ‘Rest’ and ‘The Break of Day’. The Youth their talents for local mission and ministry. Band then took the stage to perform ‘There will be Light’, The festival aims to uplift and inspire the Waikato community, ‘Manchester’ and ‘For the World’. through a combined brass bands concert on the Saturday night, followed by a Sunday morning worship meeting. The three bands who joined forces for the 2019 Inspire weekend were the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Youth Band, led by bandmaster Duncan Horton; Palmerston North Corps Band, led by bandmaster Michael Fletcher; and Hamilton City Band, led by local legend, bandmaster Stewart Stanbridge. To mix things up, the weekend also featured talented, special guest vocalists— Lieutenant Lauren and Captain Aaron Stobie, Corps Officers in Campbelltown, Australia. The massed band ensemble playing ‘Guardian of my Soul’. 14 WarCry 16 NOVEMBER 2019
The concert programme built through the night to a spectacular second half, when all three bands joined together as one. The massed band pieces—led by guest conductors Delwyn Ringle and Gordon Jellyman— included ‘the Superman Theme’, ‘Guardian of my Soul’, ‘Hymn to the Fallen (Saving Private Ryan theme)’, ‘Largo’ and ‘the 1996 Olympic Fanfare’. What an amazing sound with over 80 musicians playing together to the glory of God! Lieutenant Lauren Stobie Guest vocalists, Lauren performing at INSPIRE 2019. and Aaron, brought the house down with their opening contribution, ‘The Prayer’, and the inspiration continued with ‘We Shall Behold Him’, ‘They Could Not’ and ‘More Than Wonderful’. The evening concluded with a rousing rendition of ‘The Founder’s Song’ with the massed band, music team vocalists, Lauren and Aaron and a congregation who were in full voice. What a majestic sound, and, we’ve been told, a deeply impacting moment for a number of concert-goers who had never heard this anthem before! Over 420 gathered on Sunday morning— which started early for the musicians, with a devotional and time of prayer led by Marcus. The meeting continued with the massed band leading the service through, along with outstanding solos and duets from Lauren and Aaron. A wonderful, heartfelt personal testimony was shared by Landon Smith and a passionate, Spiritfilled message was given by Captain Paul Gardner, Divisional Commander. What a special weekend Captain Aaron Stobie performing at INSPIRE 2019. of community and connection through music, song, testimony and teaching—it will be talked about and inspire for a long time. BY BEV PARKINSON
Putting Period Poverty in the Spotlight It’s not just alliteration; period poverty in the Pacific Islands is a problem. For Major Debbie Clark, Territorial Overseas Development Officer, the recent attention given to period poverty within New Zealand was a wake-up call. The subject is one that many people have tended to shy away from, meaning the size of the problem goes underreported and often unnoticed. When women cannot afford —or do not have access to—sanitary products or facilities, they resort to using makeshift or unsafe products, experience ostracism, and miss important growth opportunities. ‘We’ve proved that it is a real issue,’ Debbie says. ‘Women miss out on education, they miss out on work, their dignity is often at risk. ‘I thought, “if it’s an issue for us in New Zealand, how big an issue is it for those in the Pacific?”’ In response, a $30 bundle has been added to the Just Gifts catalogue. The money raised will be used to purchase proper materials to create reusable products as well as to buy disposable products for women in the Pacific Islands. Donations can be made via credit card through the Just Gifts website, while a form with details for all other payment methods can be printed out and posted or emailed to THQ. With the aim of advertising and normalising the subject, Debbie walked around Encounter Congress on Friday night with a jar full of tampons in colourful wrappers, playing ‘Guess how many tampons in the jar’. She particularly hopes that younger generations, who tend to be more comfortable talking about period poverty, will get involved with the campaign. After the success of last year’s Salvation Cycles fundraising effort, Debbie has high hopes that this project will also receive wide support from corps and centres. Christchurch City Corps Youth are hosting a fundraiser, while Hastings Corps is taking over their local family store for a day to raise money. ‘I think this is something that our young women, even mums, playgroups, could get involved in because it’s something that’s real for them,’ says Debbie. The $30 gift bundles can be purchased online at justgifts.org.nz/products/period-poverty-for-the-pacific 16 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 15
Samoa Celebrates its First Year with Enrolment of new Members Samoa Region recently celebrated the 1 year anniversary of the official opening in August 2018. Special guests for the weekend were Territorial Leaders, Commissioners Andy and Yvonne Westrupp. On Friday, the Territorial Leaders carried out the Territorial Governance Review of the Regional Headquarters, Corps and Addiction Services, with the region highlighting the mission success over the past 12 months since the work commenced. The corps continues to grow and reach people with the gospel message. The Addictions services has seen over 320 clients graduate from the Alcohol and Drug Programme, and we have recently employed another AOD clinician. On Saturday evening, a family concert was held, with corps members presenting items, including songs, cultural items, Siva (Samoan dance) and skits. The territorial leaders joined the regional leaders to sing Whakaaria Mai, much to the delight of everyone. Yvonne brought the evening to a close with an encouraging devotional message. Close to 100 people attended the Thanksgiving Service on Sunday morning, which featured the enrolment of 12 new members—including one senior soldier, four junior soldiers and seven adherents. Andy and Yvonne presented certificates and prayed for the Lord to strengthen and empower the new members as they serve him through The Salvation Army in Samoa. Special guests included representatives from the New Zealand High Commission, and our mission partners, Goshen Trust Mental Health Services and Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration. Yvonne shared her testimony and Andy brought the message from God’s Word, encouraging everyone to keep true to the promises and vows they have made to the Lord. Following the service, a To’onai was held with two size 2 pigs and plenty of food for everyone. A one-year anniversary cake was cut by our newest soldier Aloiafi To’o and Yvonne, and clients from the Goshen Trust Mental health Services entertained us with a song. We give thanks to God for his blessings on the work in Samoa and believe in faith that the best is yet to be.
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2019 South Pacific Retired Officers’ Convention (SPROC) Report One hundred ‘cheerleaders’ from Australia and New Zealand met at Waipuna Conference Centre, Auckland from 3–6 September, forming a ‘cloud of witnesses’ from which great blessings flowed of praise to God, learning, listening, fellowship, adventure and fun. The convention’s theme of ‘Cheerleaders’ was based on Hebrews 12:1–2 (NIV), which begins: ‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses … ’ The Message translation of this verse speaks of the pioneers and veterans who blazed the way and continue to cheer others on. Following a cultural welcome, Commissioner June Kendrew introduced the theme and challenged delegates to consider their part in being cheerleaders. She asked two vital questions that retired officers need to ponder: ‘As cheerleaders, what are we doing?’ and ‘Who are we investing in?’ Four delegates shared why they had come to SPROC, and reports from the two territories were presented. Territorial Leaders Commissioners Andy and Yvonne Westrupp were guests for the evening, giving words of testimony and encouragement. Devotions were led by Divisional Leaders Majors Ian and Liz Gainsford, and included Captains Faye and Stephen Molen (Manurewa) and Lieutenants Chantelle and Michael Bryan (Papakura), who shared some of the innovative and exciting things currently happening. Guest speaker Dr Kate Reigle van West shared the benefits of the use of poi that had the auditorium filled with poi-swinging cheerleaders. Delegates from both territories shared ways to be cheerleaders, such as by writing an unforgettable experience on a small cloud paper. It was very moving as delegates realised the breadth and depth of ways God is working through His witnesses. Dinner at the Auckland City Corps preceded a concert organised by Major Graeme McMurdo that featured the Fellowship Band, City Songsters, a soloist, a Samoan singing group, and the Auckland City Korean Corps. A fine day for a boat trip to Rotoroa Island was an answer to prayer. Retired officers enjoyed walks around the island, exploring its beauty and viewing remaining buildings (including the chapel,
superintendent’s home, cemetery, and museum). During a service of remembrance, led by Lieutenant-Colonel Wilfred Arnold, reference was made to those who lost their lives on the island. New Zealand officers who had served on Rotoroa briefly shared their experiences. Major Ian Smith from Tasmania, whose officer grandparents were appointed to Rotoroa in 1912, showed a photo of his family on Rotoroa when his mother was just a young girl. The moving testimony of Captain John Billington, who had been a client on the Island and the Bridge programme many times, testified to his years struggling with alcoholism. He finally surrendered to God and, with his wife, Beryl, became a Salvation Army officer. In the final session, three committed cheerleaders testified to God’s working in their lives. Commissioner David Bringans encouraged those present to intentionally pass the baton on to following generations, rather than see out our days on the side-lines. The conference was a wonderful opportunity for fellowship,
with positive, uplifting experiences. As Major Eva Medland said, ‘I’m leaving on cloud nine!’ BY COMMISSIONER GRACE BRINGANS
Grace flows at Tonga Youth Councils ‘Kelesi Taulofu’u.’ While you might have not heard those words before, you have experienced it. Kelesi Taulofu’u is Tongan for ‘Immeasurable Grace’, the theme of this year’s youth councils, 13–15 September. The picturesque Montfort Technical Institute at Nuku’alofa, surrounded by palm trees, made for an ideal tropical venue. Around 90 young people gathered together to participate in a few days of worship, prayer and to learn from God’s word. Tonga Regional Youth Board leaders, led by Filipe Saafi, got together the day before to ensure that everything was ready. With all the last minutes details tied down, it was time for a good feed and fellowship. The easy access to resources that we can take for granted in New Zealand, was not a given here, and one had to use ingenuity and innovation to get things done. ‘Only in Tonga’ was the byword, and the next morning the team got down to final preparations. Plywood and other materials were cut and painted, the backdrop was soon ready. The Regional Headquarters truck was loaded up as they do, ‘only in Tonga’, and we were off to the venue. The camp began with praise and worship, led by youth who have attended Amplify Creative Arts camps. It was exciting to see these young people develop their gifts. The delegates were also welcomed with a stirring rendition of the haka. Lieutenant Samisoni Akoteu encouraged the delegates that even when they failed and made mistakes, through God’s immeasurable grace, they were able to have a second chance daily. He stressed the need for holiness and to have the word of God hidden in their hearts. On benches and tables made locally by Nuku’alofa Corps, the delegates shared meals together under a marquee. A group of dedicated
volunteers cooked up some delicious meals—cooked fresh and enjoyed fresh. The marquee was a place of connection and enjoying God’s goodness and grace through friendship. Pastor John Moala, Senior Pastor of Walk by Faith Church, shared God’s word on Saturday. ‘God’s grace is sufficient for us and through His grace I am able to live day by day,’ was the key message he drove home (John 1:12–16). No youth event is without its moments of chaos and craziness—all done in the name of activities. Captain Mat Badger got the delegates running around, having fun and getting acquainted with each other—as they chased each other with pool noodles! A variety of workshops, ranging from leadership, officership and adventure-based learning was on offer that afternoon. After a jam-packed Saturday, it was time for some downtime, as delegates showcased their talents at the talent night. Poems, dances, songs—some impromptu, some wellrehearsed—made for a fun-filled evening. The last day saw a mixed bag of activities. A panel, headed by Regional Commander, Captain Sila Siufanga, Mat and Leslie (THQ staff) answered delegates’ questions. Leslie had an opportunity to share his testimony, and Mat closed out the final session by sharing from the life of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1–10). He encouraged the delegates to ‘take Jesus home’ just as Zacchaeus did. ‘He positioned himself in the path where grace was coming and encountered Jesus,’ said Mat. Many delegates were prayed for by the leaders for a fresh infilling of God’s grace. Being privileged to attend, Mat and Leslie sure did experience ‘Kelesi Taulofu’u’ through the warmth and hospitality of our Tongan friends as they do, ‘Only in Tonga’. BY LESLIE D’MELLO
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GAZETTE Promotion to Glory: Major Donald Walker, from Whangārei on Saturday 26 October 2019, aged 80 years. Donald was born in Auckland on 5 December 1938. Donald entered The Salvation Army Training College from Whangārei Corps as a member of the Servants of Christ session. He was commissioned on 19 January 1963 and appointed in charge of Nightcaps Corps. Donald married Lieutenant Dorothy Robertson on 2 January 1965, and together they were appointed as Corps Officers at Port Chalmers on 21 January 1965. Further Corps appointments followed to Waimate, Levin, Tauranga, Hamilton, and in 1987 Auckland Congress Hall. In January 1990, Donald was appointed as Property Department Liaison Officer for 369 Queen Street, Auckland. In August 1990, Donald and Dorothy were appointed as corps officers, Papakura. They were then appointed in charge of New Lynn Corps in January 1992. Donald was appointed as North Shore Community and Family Services Manager in January 1995, followed by Auckland City Community and Family Services Director in January 1996. It is from this appointment that Donald and Dorothy Walker retired. In his retirement, Donald has been an active member of Whangārei Corps and a passionate advocate for the new Corps building. Please uphold Major Dorothy Walker, their children Graeme Walker, Jennifer Morris, Captain Kenneth Walker, Peter Walker, and Captain Pauleen Richards and their families along with grandchildren, including Cadet Elizabeth Walker-Ratuniyauravu, in prayer during this time of grief and loss. Well done, good and faithful servant! Bereavement: Cadet Cassandra Henderson, of her mother-in-law Jennifer Marie Taylor, from Christchurch on Wednesday 30 October 2019. We ask you to uphold Jenny’s husband Geoff, son Chris Henderson, Cadet Cass and other family members in your prayers during this time of grief and loss. Bereavement: Major David Clark and Major Allan Clark, of David’s brother and Allan’s uncle, Kenneth Clark, from Brisbane, on Thursday 31 October 2019. We ask you to uphold the extended Clark family in your prayers during this time of grief and loss. Retirement: Captain Lindsay Andrews, on 23 October 2019. Captain Lindsay completed 16 years, 9 months, 6 days of active service. Lindsay and Beth became Lieutenants of Winton Corps on 17 January 2003, and in November 2007 they were warranted as Full Time Short Term Non-Officer Service (FTSTNOS) personnel. Beth was promoted to Glory on 18 January 2009. Remaining in Winton Corps, Lindsay became Auxiliary Captain on 14 January 2010. In January 2011, Lindsay was appointed to Christchurch Community Ministries as Court and Prison Officer. He was then appointed to Dunedin as Manager of Community Ministries in June 2013. While in this appointment, he was commissioned to substantive rank of Captain in December 2014. In October 2015, Lindsay was appointed as Divisional Emergency Services Coordinator for Southern Division, before his marriage to Major Wendy Barney on 25 October 2015. In January 2016, he received an additional appointment as Divisional Community Ministries Secretary, Southern Division. In January 2019, Lindsay returned to Christchurch Courts and it is from this appointment that he enters retirement. It is with sincere thanks and appreciation that we honour Captain Lindsay Andrews for his faithful service to God through The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga and Samoa Territory. We pray God’s rich blessing on his retirement.
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Social Justice: Why? ‘Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matt 25:40) In the eyes of the general public around most of the world it is the social outreach of The Salvation Army that is most readily recognized and affirmed. At the heart of this compassionate ministry is the cherished belief that in reaching out to the hungry, thirsty, lonely, naked, sick and imprisoned we are actually reaching out to Christ himself. Salvationists see Jesus: in the homeless dormitory, in the rehabilitation center, in the hospital ward, in the refugee shelter. The international Salvation Army has innumerable social service programs reaching out to the poor and disenfranchised of the world. The list is seemingly limitless in character and scope: schools for the blind in Africa, orphanages in South America, suicide prevention in Australia, soup kitchens in India, ministry with prostituted women in Europe, day care centers for children in North America. This diversity is an expression of the one holistic gospel in which The Salvation Army so passionately believes. The spiritual and social aspects of the Christian gospel combine to form an integrated or total ministry. We perceive it artificial and unscriptural to separate the two. Giving a cup of hot chocolate to a shivering fireman can be a powerful spiritual experience. Military veterans who received a donut amidst the horrors of warfare testify to the love of God experienced in that simple action. General Frederick Coutts describes this holistic concept of social work and evangelical work: ‘It is not that these are two distinct entities which could operate one without the other. They are but two activities of the one and the same salvation which is concerned with the total redemption of man. Both rely upon the same grace, both are inspired with the same motive, both have the same end in mind. And as the gospel has joined them together, we do not propose to put them asunder.’ The founding days of The Salvation Army saw rapid and practical responses to the poverty of Victorian England. ‘Soup, soap and salvation’ became the catchphrase. The consistent and effective social ministry of The Salvation Army eventually changed the tide of public opinion from hostility to admiration. William Booth’s 1890 book, ‘In Darkest England And The Way Out,’ is regarded as a landmark publication in the articulation of Salvation Army relief work. It resulted in: homes for single mothers, orphanages for abandoned children, farm colonies for unemployed men, the ministry of ‘Slum Sisters,’ quietly working in city ghettos tending the sick, cleaning the streets and homes and cooking meals. Upon seeing homeless men sleeping under London Bridge William Booth instructed to his son, Bramwell, ‘Do something!’ Ever since, Salvationists have felt compelled to respond in practical ways. The essential social program of each Salvation Army unit today is simply to serve suffering humanity. This social outreach is: not distinct to evangelism, not a means of evangelism, not as manipulation for evangelism later on, but, social action with evangelism. General Eva Burrows once recalled an African student who commented on the parable of the Good Samaritan. ‘In the story you have the robber who does bad, you have the Samaritan who does good and you have the religious people who do nothing.’ Salvationists are religious people who ‘do something!’ BY COLONEL RICHARD MUNN
A holiness that can’t sit still—Soldier’s Brengle in Fiji Twenty representatives from across corps in Fiji were invited to be part of the Brengle Holiness weekend, 9–11 August. It was a great blessing to be part of this soldier’s Brengle. Everyone was empowered and challenged to live a holy life. The weekend started off with words of welcome from Major Anne Irwin, followed by the introduction from Major Alister Irwin, who elaborated a little about Samuel Logan Brengle—who he was and how he began this holiness movement. Major Malcolm Herring, guest speaker for the weekend, emphasised that holiness is pure love and, in order for a person to live a holy life, he or she needs to be full of the Holy Spirit. ‘To be full of the Holy Spirit is not a mere emotion. It is an infusion of love that brings every thought into captivity to the Lord Jesus Christ, that drives out all fear; that burns up doubt and unbelief; that makes a person gentle and humble in heart.’ We learnt that ‘God sanctifies his people, not only in order that they will be marked by his character, but also in order that the world will be marked by that character. It is the holy love of God, expressed in the heart and life of his people, pointing the world to Christ, inviting the world to saving grace, serving the world with Christ’s compassion and attacking social evils.’ We concluded the weekend being reminded that, ‘holiness leads to mission, which leads to a holiness that can’t sit still’. The challenge is for each of us to put that holiness into action as soldiers of The Salvation Army in Fiji. BY CADET MEREANI BETENA
‘WE ARE STILL ON THAT JOURNEY.’
Over Labour weekend I gathered with other members of my whānau at Te Kaha in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, for the unveiling ceremony of a lovely, gracious and kind couple who gave of themselves to their whānau and wider community over many years. It was my honour to lead the service, and, before we commenced, I walked around the urupā (cemetery) paying respect to my tupuna (ancestors). Following the service, we gathered at the RSA for kai and a time of sharing. We gathered at the RSA because Wiremu (Pom) Walker served in Company C, 28th Māori Battalion, along with 10 other members of my whānau. Pom passed away in 2017 and was one of the last of the 3600 who served in the battalion—649 of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice, and 1712 were wounded. In total, 16,000 Māori enlisted to serve in WW2 out of a total population of under 90,000. Around the walls of the RSA are photos of those who have served our nation over the past 120 years, including Second Lieutenant Te Moana-nui-a-kiwa Ngarimu, who in 1943 was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, and Willie Apiata VC. I am intrigued why so many Māori enthusiastically volunteered to serve a country that, in many ways, was not serving them well. Inequalities between Māori and Pākehā in the lead-up to WW2 were stark: 39 times more Māori than Pākehā died of typhoid, and infant mortality was four times higher for Māori. Yet in the midst of this terrible backdrop—along with the pain and injustice of land confiscation—Māori volunteered to serve a country where, in so many ways, they were not equal. Sir Apirana Ngata prepared a booklet for the posthumous investiture of Second Lieutenant Ngarimu VC and entitled it The Price of Citizenship. It encapsulated the spirit that motivated the men of the 28 (Māori) Battalion, to defend their country as a matter of duty and obligation; the duty stemming from Article Three of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, in which the rights of British citizenship and the duties and obligations were imparted to Māori. Ngata hoped that following the war and the price Māori paid, that things would change, and the inequalities and prejudice would be acknowledged and addressed. It would take many years to see tangible change, and for many Māori who served, they didn’t see the change hoped for. We are still on that journey. As I stood in the RSA looking at the role of honour, I wondered what would have been if they had returned home to become leaders and mentors—a lost generation and lost opportunity. Lest we forget. Captain Gerry Walker Territorial Assistant Secretary for Programme 16 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 19
Imaginal cells As a Salvation Army officer, my time as Chaplain at the Christchurch Bridge has been the most sacred. Our home boasted a very large, well-established swan plant, and as I searched for a theology to make sense of the overwhelming brokenness experienced by Bridge participants, I watched numerous caterpillars disappear into tomb-like cocoons. This process became the symbol of hope I was looking for: the darkest spaces give rise to the most beautiful transformations. A caterpillar is born with ‘imaginal cells’, which contain everything needed to become a butterfly. Perhaps these imaginal cells direct a caterpillar to literally feed an inner calling. Certainly, something compels a caterpillar to consume excessively until it finally retreats into a dark transitional space. During this phase a caterpillar relinquishes its past identity and disintegrates into a gooey mess within a chrysalis. Aptly known as ‘caterpillar soup’, the only elements retained in the goo are imaginal cells, which enable the caterpillar to transform into a butterfly. This is the only path a caterpillar can follow if it is to embrace its intended identity.
Prodigal pursuits The word ‘prodigal’ means irresponsible, wasteful, reckless and wanton, and conveys our universal judgement of Scripture’s Prodigal Son. Preachers typically condemn him for attempting to satisfy his emptiness with choices resulting in failure and futility. Yet we don’t judge a caterpillar for embarking
on a journey which causes it to totally unravel—we don’t see this breakdown as failure. Instead we celebrate the process, understanding this is how God creates a glorious butterfly. Could it be that the Prodigal Son needed to follow a similar calling? Just as a caterpillar feeds and follows an inner drive, the Prodigal Son was compelled to pursue pleasures which he hoped would satisfy his emptiness. Many who struggle with compulsive urges describe a similar yearning. Deep down we all appear to sense the Spirit calling us to something more; nudging us towards an elusive imagined flourishing. And just like the Prodigal, that gnawing hunger can subtly draw us into choices which replace God as our first and ultimate source. But once we rule out what doesn’t work, we understand we are actually called to intimate connection with our Divine Parent. It seems that, like the Prodigal, we too must experience brokenness before we understand how far we have strayed. When everything we have tried fails—all we have left is God. Ultimately that is the point.
Breaking is normal and necessary The dark in-between space of the chrysalis where transformation happens is known as ‘liminal space’, and mirrors a pattern clearly articulated by Jesus:
‘ … unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies … ’ (John 12:24, ISV). Yet, rather than embrace this paradigm, we resist God’s call to fall to the ground and die. Though we fervently invite God to break us, our theology doesn’t easily support unravelling. Instead, when we experience caterpillar soup, many of us leap to the conclusion that both ourselves and our brokenness are unacceptable to God; that our unravelling is the result of a lack of faith or unforgiven sin; or that any brokenness is evidence we have strayed from God’s intended path. When we feel broken, we assume our faith must be broken. As Salvationists we typically preach full surrender, urging people to avoid caterpillar soup and the process of working through and out of it. We attempt to quickly replace despair with praise, doubt with faith, and sadness with joy. But we don’t help anyone to flourish when we counsel broken people to claim victory before they have fully processed their pain and understood what it’s teaching them. If we try to help a butterfly break out of its cocoon early, we rob it of the required final struggle. Unless it bursts out of the cocoon unaided, it can’t fully develop its
WHEN EVERYTHING WE HAVE TRIED FAILS—ALL WE HAVE LEFT IS GOD. ULTIMATELY THAT IS THE POINT. 20 WarCry 16 NOVEMBER 2019
BY SUE HAY
WE NEED A THEOLOGY WHICH ALLOWS US TO SUPPORT EACH OTHER WHEN WE DON’T (YET) HAVE THE RESILIENCE TO FACE CATERPILLAR SOUP OR WE CAN’T (YET) MUSTER THE RESOURCES TO PUSH OUR WAY THROUGH IT. the character of the Prodigal to teach us that disintegrating into caterpillar soup is both normal and necessary.
Not everyone can answer the call
wings and will emerge crippled. In the same way, when we seek to minimise another’s pain, we prevent them from experiencing a necessary wrestling. They will emerge from their caterpillar soup less than whole. The Father understood that transformation involved the Prodigal Son discovering his flawed human nature and the limits of his own resourcefulness. Finally, through his Father’s love the Prodigal found the deep connection his imaginal cells had hoped and searched for. Jesus created
When the Father threw a party to welcome the Prodigal home, the seemingly perfect Older Son couldn’t bring himself to join in. The Father pleaded with him to join the celebrations, as the party was really an invitation to intimacy. However, the Older Son needed to face the hardness of his own heart—the very thing which prevented deep connection with the Father and his brother. He hadn’t unravelled enough to experience being embraced by grace. Nor could he recognise all that had already been lavished upon him. And without personally experiencing grace, he was unable to extend grace to his brother. Just as the Older Son wasn’t yet able to fly free, the truth is, not everyone appears able to flourish. Some of us were so under-resourced in our early years we haven’t (yet) emerged as butterflies. Or our hearts remain hard, usually when there’s been very profound wounding. For others, painful experiences persist: terminal cancer, dementia and unrelenting mental health issues are just
some examples which have no victorious ending. This reality contrasts starkly to the hope of transformation offered by the caterpillar metaphor. Regrettably, life cannot always be bundled up into a neat package with a pretty bow. We need a theology which allows us to support each other when we don’t (yet) have the resilience to face caterpillar soup, or we can’t (yet) muster the resources to push our way through it.
Conclusion Jesus used the imagery of a seed and a Prodigal to normalise the process of falling and failing. By overlaying these images with a caterpillar’s journey, we see that disintegrating into caterpillar soup is necessary. Brokenness empties us of all sources of identity other than God, freeing us to receive God’s lavish love and our intended identity. Despite our resistance, Jesus was emphatic: in order to transform we must first fall apart. This article is a condensed version of Major Sue Hay's 2019 Thought Matters paper. For a full copy of the paper | salvationarmy.org.nz/FromBtoT
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PRAY Carterton Corps, Central Division Central Taranaki Corps; The Salvation Army in Pakistan, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, and The Philippines.
Christmas Memories
Commissioners Andy (Territorial Commander) and Yvonne Westrupp (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 19–27 Nov: IHQ Review and Visit of International Secretary & Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries 24 Nov: Johnsonville Corps visit, Wellington 26 Nov: Christmas Appeal Breakfast, Christchurch 28 Nov–2 Dec: Fiji Division Review by Governance Board, Fiji Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Territorial Secretary for Programme & Communications) 17 Nov: Miramar Corps visit, Wellington 19–27 Nov: IHQ Review and Visit of International Secretary & Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries 28 Nov–2 Dec: Fiji Division Review by Governance Board, Fiji (Melvin only) 29 Nov–1 Dec: Samoa visit with International Secretary & Zonal Secretary for Women's Ministries (Suzanne only) Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 19–27 Nov: IHQ Review and Visit of International Secretary & Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries 28 Nov–2 Dec: Fiji Division Review by Governance Board, Fiji
Send us your favourite Christmas memory or pictures by 25 November (warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz) for our Christmas edition.
Want to Know More?
NY Marathon 2020
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:
Name Email
Run the New York Marathon 2020
Address Phone Send to: warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz or War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141
and raise money for The Salvation Army's Aspire Youth Development Programme. email pr@salvationarmy.org.nz
Quiz Answers: 1 Samoa, 2 Port-Au-Prince, 3 A gang or obstinacy, 4 1970, 5 The Sea of Chinnereth.
22 WarCry 16 NOVEMBER 2019
Recipe!
No one knows for sure what manna tasted like, but in Exodus, the Bible hints that it was like wafers with honey. Here’s a crispy honey treat for you to bake this weekend!
Honey Crunch Clusters 60g butter ¼ cup of honey 4 cups of puffed rice cereal
‘Tell them, “At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God”.’ Exodus 16:12
Melt the butter and honey together in a saucepan. Bring to the boil, simmer for 3–4 minutes until syrupy. Place the puffed rice in a bowl and pour on the hot honey mixture. Stir to combine, mixing well to coat the cereal. Pile spoonfuls into small paper cupcake cups and leave to set.
Source: eatwell.co.nz
Spot the difference!
Can you find 10 differences betwen the two pictures?
Did you know that the human body can only survive three days without water? And without food, we can only survive for about three weeks. When Moses first led the Israelites out of Egypt, they packed as much food and water as they could. But it ran out soon enough and, as the Snickers TV commercial says, ‘you’re not you when you’re hungry.’ The Israelites started to get super nervous that God had set them free only to let them starve. They doubted that the God who miraculously led them out of slavery would not provide them with something as basic as food. God saw their doubting, and proved to them that he was in control. He instructed Moses to tap his staff against a big rock. Suddenly, fresh water started flowing from the rock. In the evening, he filled the surrounding land with quail, then in the morning, they woke to find Manna on the ground. Manna was a thin, flaky bread-like substance, and God even made the ground dewy to keep it clean and safe to eat. Each day, God kept providing the Israelites with water, quail, and manna—enough to feed them for years! Now, this doesn’t mean that the next time you feel hungry God will make donuts fall from the sky (if only!). It does show us that God will always provide for us. If you trust and take your concerns to him, he will answer them—sometimes in unexpectedly wonderful ways. THINK ABOUT …
How God has provided for you this week. 16 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 23