FAITH IN ACTION 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 | Issue 6726 | $1.50
What Does Kmart Have to Do with God?
I’m Not One to Gossip, But … The Art of Listening to God at Work
Lasses, Stand Up For Your Rights! Gender Equality in The Salvation Army
Suffrage Anniversary September 19
Wellington Mayor
Justin Lester on Servant Leadership
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WAR CRY The Salvation Army
New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Andy & Yvonne Westrupp | GENERAL Brian Peddle | FOUNDERS William
& Catherine Booth
The Salvation Army’s message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by love for God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need in his name without discrimination. War Cry exists to support and advance The Salvation Army’s message, ministry and mission. MANAGING EDITOR Ingrid Barratt | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Matt Gillon | STAFF WRITERS Captain Jules Badger, Major Shar Davis, Louise Parry, Bethany Slaughter | PROOF READING Major Jill Gainsford, Vivienne Hill | COVER PHOTO
Mark Trantum 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 6726 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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Ending the Conspiracy of Silence The whole communications team is experiencing a mixture of exhaustion and elation, after a weekend away at the ARPA (Australasian Religious Press Association) Awards. War Cry came away with the biggest haul of the night, and our biggest win ever, with seven awards. Awards in themselves are not significant—that’s not why we do the job—but I was very moved to have one particular article recognised: our gold award for the feature article ‘Us Not Them: The Church and Homophobia’. This feature shared the story of Craig Hutson, who for the first time, publicly shared his story growing up gay in The Salvation Army—he described it as ‘death by a thousand cuts’. I am so thankful for the courage of leadership in allowing this article to be published, and helping end a conspiracy of silence from the wider church on LGBT+ issues. This feature has been by far the most read War Cry article online, and I still get regular requests for copies of the edition. One older gentleman at ARPA told me he read the article with tears in his eyes, and it helped shift his position. This shows me that people are longing to engage with this issue in a meaningful way. No, we do not need more articles condemning homosexuality—we have more than enough of those. We need many, many more articles that show compassion and a way forward for any group of people much loved by God, but wrongly rejected by the church. Ingrid Barratt Editor
If you want to do violence in this world, you will always find the weapons. If you want to heal, you will always find the balm. Rachel Held Evans
Isaiah 43:1 Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Ihāia 43:1 Kaua e wehi kua oti nei hoki koe te hoko e ahau; kua karangatia e ahau tōu ingoa; nāku koe.
K
mart has just opened its first New Zealand 24-hour store in Sylvia Park, Auckland. Reaction to this ‘open all hours’ policy has been mixed … Jason Picard, Kmart Manager NZ, says it’s about ‘offering better support’ to ‘shift workers and people working non-traditional business hours’. Ok, so this makes sense—to a point. The expanded opening hours has widened the scope for other groups previously excluded, like those who struggle with social anxiety. Crowds and chaos are a barrier for this group, as they are for shoppers with mobility issues and a variety of disabilities. But when many Kmart branches are open until midnight, do most of us need to be able to shop until we drop 24/7? Jason goes on to say that most customers who walk in (to Kmart) have ‘no idea what they’re going to walk out with’. It’s true: most of the time, our shopping is not really about what we need, but about what we want. And we want stuff—the latest stuff. It wouldn’t be fair to critique Kmart alone—they are just meeting the demand of a consumer-driven culture. We’re obsessed with ‘fast fashion’ and cheap products—so much so that the idea of shopping at 2am sparks the feel-good endorphins in our brain. And Kmart is trying hard to improve its ethical rating, with a B+ from Tearfund’s Ethical Fashion Guide. But unfettered consumerism creates suffering in other parts of the world and often has a huge environmental impact—which cannot be ignored.
And yet many of us do ignore it. I ignore it— especially when there’s a bargain to be found. I wanted to write an article about how God is like Kmart—open all hours. And he is! Inclusion is always a good thing—but it needs to include the factory workers who make the products, as well as our neighbours down the road. Jesus hated exclusion. He was all about challenging cultural assumptions about who belonged and who didn’t, in favour of highlighting the rights and value of those marginalised and rejected by traditional social norms. He was an includer through and though. And he delighted in making sure the unnoticed and unloved were not excluded from his attention. One of the longest exchanges in the gospels is his conversation with a Samaritan woman, who came to the well alone in the heat of the day, because everyone else came when it was cool. She avoided the crowds, and that day so did Jesus. He made sure she was given the opportunity to be included in his kingdom. Like Jesus, I would rather be excluded for who I include, rather than included for who I exclude. Being ‘open all hours’ means including everyone in the scope of our care—whether that’s the shift worker in our country, or the factory worker in another part of the world. BY JULES BADGER
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Documentary 2040 (GA) Directed by Damon Gameau
Documentary maker Damon Gameau explores what the future would look like by 2040 if the world simply embraced the best solutions already available to us. Framing the film as a letter to his 4-year-old daughter Zoe, who will be 25 in 2040, it’s a trip across the world to find already-existing behaviours and technologies that could not only help reduce the environmental damage but might reverse what damage has already been done. As 2040 progresses, one begins to feel there are so many good ideas—so many simple but effective solutions waiting to be harnessed—that not only can climate change be defeated, we might also go a long way towards solving many environmental, economic and social problems. (Reviewed by Martin Barratt)
TOPFIVE
It’s World Habitat Day on 7 October, so here are five unusual buildings that some people call home. 5 Shark Attack Home, UK: This house would fit right into the neighbourhood if not for the large shark sculpture seemingly crashing through the roof. 4 Rotating House, Czech Republic: This one takes the concept of ‘moving house’ to a whole new level—literally—with mechanisms allowing it to move up and down and rotate. 3 Slide House, Japan: An indoor slide connects three floors, allowing inhabitants the choice of descending via the stairs or slide. 2 The World’s Slimmest House, Poland: Only 152cm at its widest point and 92cm at its narrowest (approximately three ruler lengths), there’s no room to spread out here. 1 Transparent House, Japan: This house is made of glass walls, providing plenty of sunlight but zero privacy (and lots of window cleaning)! 4 WarCry 21 SEPTEMBER 2019
Creamy Chicken and Courgette Pasta 400g fettuccine 1 Tbsp vegetable or olive oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 small courgettes, thinly sliced 40 gram sachet of tasty cheese sauce ½ cup cream 1½ cup shredded cooked chicken ½ cup drained semi-dried tomatoes, chopped
Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water until tender. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large frying pan over moderate heat. Add garlic and courgette. Cook and stir for 3–4 minutes or until courgette is just tender. Stir in sauce mixture, 1 cup of water and cream. Cook and stir for one minute or until sauce boils and thickens. Stir in chicken, tomato, half the parmesan and half the parsley. Remove sauce from heat. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Add sauce to pasta. Stir to coat. Serve pasta topped with remaining parmesan and parsley.
½ cup shredded parmesan ¼ cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley Source: countdown.co.nz
OURPEOPLE
Bethany Slaughter Staff Writer Bethany joins the Communications department as a writer for War Cry. She grew up in Adelaide, where years of filling notebooks with stories and scribbling in the margins of church newsletters inspired her to study a degree in Creative Writing and Media, followed by an internship in Publishing. Her weekends are often spent donning the goal attack bib, supporting her beloved Adelaide Thunderbirds, or writing for Netball Scoop. Otherwise, you will find her reading, making homemade cards, or watching Pixar films.
QUIKQUIZ
1 Who won the rugby game between Fiji and Tonga in Auckland last month? 2 Who is the president of Brazil? 3 Who are the member countries of the G7? 4 What is the Canadian dish ‘poutine’ made of? 5 Who planted the first garden?
Napier Corps Gets GreenFingered Foodbank
Not only is the Napier Corps’ community vegetable garden thriving after being refreshed earlier this year, it is fuelling community outreach to both its Foodbank and local primary school, Henry Hill School.
July 24, 1971
Answers on page 22
Through a letterbox drop around the neighbourhood, the corps sought out someone who could oversee and maintain the gardens, and local teacher Lisa Morton put her hand up.
WARCRY INHISTORY
‘When Lisa took over the gardens, they were quite tired, run down; so she’s restored that and done some renovation work,’ says Major Stephen Wallis, Community Ministries Team Leader. ‘It’s now looking good and it’s starting to produce quite well.’ That produce includes a range of vegetables, from cabbages and cauliflowers to beetroot and broccoli, which means the corps can supply their Foodbank clients with hand-picked vegetables.
Students from Henry Hill School in Napier tending to the garden.
The garden has also enabled them to explore another outreach opportunity through Lisa’s work as a teacher. Her students visit the corps to ‘work away
in the garden, plant and weed and harvest’, and learn about sustainable living.
With the Rugby World Cup beginning on 21 September, here’s some evidence from the 24 July 1971 edition of War Cry to prove that New Zealand has always been rugby mad!
The perks of this informal partnership are three-fold: the Napier Corps now has a revitalised garden, the students learn through hands-on experience, and the Foodbank enjoys fresh produce.
Source: Booth College of Mission Heritage and Archives Centre
‘It’s got a benefit in that, in this case, the students are being taught some gardening skills and composting and weeding,’ Stephen says. ‘When it’s time for harvest, that food is coming across to us so that we can give our clients fresh veggies, as well as tinned, non-perishable food.’ 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 5
‘Lasses, Live Up to Your Privileges and Stand Up For Your Rights!’
War Cry cover illustration, August 3, 1940.
For the first time in our territory’s history, women outnumber men on executive leadership. The Salvation Army works against the discrimination of women in the public sphere, but it has taken a long time to gain equality in our own ranks. In celebration of the anniversary of our nation’s suffrage, War Cry takes a snapshot of the journey from ‘there to here’. BY JULES BADGER
O
n 19 September 126 years ago, New Zealand women were the first in the world to win the right to vote. Kate Sheppard was without doubt our most famous suffragist—her face now appropriately gracing our $10 note. What is less commonly known is that Kate was also a member of the Christian Women’s Temperance Union, and the first president of the National Council of Women—exemplifying the influence of Christianity on first-wave feminism. Many of Kate’s views, therefore, reflected that of Salvation Army co-founder Catherine Booth, who—half a world away in the East End of London—was also fighting for women’s rights. Both women were gifted and influential leaders who achieved marked success in the fight for equality during their lifetimes.
A radical vision Catherine was particularly radical for her time, and as early as 1878, she had thoroughly convinced her husband William of the right of women to preach, lead and undertake any ministry task for which they were gifted. While other denominations emphasised biblical passages that appeared to prevent women from full participation, Booth ably reinterpreted them within their biblical historical context, and highlighted the many other passages to the contrary. She believed that ‘the word and the Spirit cannot contradict each other’, and silenced her opponents by asking why God would prevent half the Body of Christ from attending to the urgent work of the Great Commission. After all, she affirmed, the Scriptures declared that the Spirit would be poured on both sons and daughters. Catherine was a trail blazer for a woman’s right to lead and minister alongside men in the church. She also called for fulfilment in Christ, where all sense of women’s subordination to men be redeemed. This is the ethos upon which The Salvation Army in New Zealand was founded in 1883.
Leadership based on merit not gender Indeed, women in the early Army were fully involved in the mission. In her thesis, Gender Equality in The Salvation Army in NZ, 1883–1960, New Zealand historian Raewyn Hendy writes: ‘Prior to World War I, particularly in the period from 1883–1900, women officers were able to participate in most aspects of the work … with positions 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 7
‘I’M DETERMINED TO PLAY A PART IN CHANGING THE CULTURE OF THE ARMY FOR WOMEN—BUT THIS STARTS WITH ME.’ appearing to be allocated on merit and availability rather than on gender.’ Written in 1895, the International Orders and Regulations for staff and officers of The Salvation Army were remarkable, stating: ‘No woman is to be kept back from any position of power or influence merely on account of her sex’. Raewyn uncovers some fascinating traces of the voices and stories of women serving in New Zealand at its inception, such as Lieutenant Annie Barriball and Captain Emily Andrew, who began the work in Norsewood—a small settlement in Hawke’s Bay—in 1891. An article written in the local paper by the Lieutenant gives no indication of the officers’ gender, but simply depicts Annie and Emily as, ‘trained ministers establishing a church community, preaching and leading worship, and ministering to the needs of their congregation … and undertaking identical tasks and responsibilities to that of a male officer’. Raewyn affirms that ‘this article gives the impression that gender inequality was not an issue in The Salvation Army in New Zealand at this time. ‘The decade of the 1890s represents a highpoint for women in The Salvation Army in New Zealand. This coincided with increasing activism by many New Zealand women around issues of suffrage and moral and social welfare. The Salvation Army in New Zealand saw that women’s rights were an important issue at this time and chose to emphasise the organisation’s position on equal opportunities for women as a way to draw attention to its evangelistic message and to engage with the wider community.’
The era of conformity But Raewyn’s research concludes that, ‘In the years from 1920 onwards, The Salvation Army increasingly conformed to the gender roles of the wider New Zealand community and full equality of roles and opportunities for women was not fully implemented by the organisation.’ By this time, The Disposition of Forces—a telling document of how The Salvation Army viewed gender roles—changed from the gender-neutral listing of all officers by surname and rank, to female officers’ names being italicised. Married 8 WarCry 21 SEPTEMBER 2019
women officers weren’t even named but denoted only by a (+) after the husband’s name. Orders and Regulations for Field Officers in 1960 includes a very revealing section entitled ‘an officer wife’: ‘Upon her depends her husband’s wellbeing and success … [she should] stimulate him to rise to the highest standard of which he is capable … guarding, supporting, assisting … [with] carefully prepared meals, economy in outlay of income, agreeing to his absence, sparing him anxiety over home and children.’ The extent of the modern Army’s failure to fulfil the Booths’ vision is clear in instructions to the officer wife such as: ‘Her service will depend largely on her husband’s appointment,’ and, ‘an officer wife should assist her husband’. Perhaps most telling is the injunction that if he has a headquarters appointment, she is no longer his second in command, but ‘should serve to the best of her ability as a soldier, and if desired a local officer of the corps to which she belongs’. The Army subtly shifted from a strongly egalitarian position to a complementarian one.
Conclusions that speak for themselves War Cry asked Raewyn to comment on how she felt about her conclusion that the Army largely failed to practice its position before 1960. But as a disciplined historian she replied, ‘It’s not for me to have feelings about the research—the conclusions speak for themselves. It’s up to The Salvation Army to interpret the findings for its context.’ But Raewyn did make several observations: ‘I certainly noted the under-utilisation of women married to men with headquarters appointments. In the 1950s, in particular, married women officers never gained the experience to hold an appointment in their own right because they were largely kept in the home sphere. And while single women seemed to have more opportunities to lead at this time, they were blatantly kept from extending their capacity because larger corps appointments were reserved for married couples.’ Raewyn observes the notable shift from an Army that began as a ‘radical and unconventional denomination with women highly visible’, to one that reflected traditional gender roles.
War Cry cover illustration, March 17, 1906.
‘From the 1920s to the 1960s the idea of equal roles and opportunities was definitely out of step with the prevailing culture—both secular, and the wider religious world in New Zealand. She would have been a very brave woman who chose to step out of the prevailing culture’s homemaker role!’
Returning to the vision What happened to William and Catherine Booth’s radical vision for the equality of men and women? Gender equality continues to be a complex issue in The Salvation Army. While the turn of the 21st Century has seen good forward movement, many women officers serving today—both single and married—still describe subtle hints of discrimination that hinder the realisation of the Booths’ vision. This was confirmed by the 1994 International Commission on the Ministry of Women Officers, which reported, ‘It is recognised that considerable changes in thought patterns and administrative practice would be needed to achieve full equality for women officers’. In his 2012 research paper Women at War: A Contrast between the Theology and Practice of Women’s Officership in the Contemporary Salvation Army,’ Major Ian Gainsford concludes that ‘essentially it is clear that the Army’s [theological] position is not in question—it’s practice, however, is. ‘To align the Army’s belief and practice is not hopeless, but it will be hard,’ Ian says. ‘Such reform may be difficult and at times painful, but by the grace of God it is well within the Army’s reach.’
Today’s women speak War Cry asked a cross-section of generations of women serving in The Salvation Army—officers, soldiers and employees— what has changed for women in their lifetime, and what the Army could be doing to realise equality. One of those respondents was Northern Divisional Community Ministries Director Rhondda Middleton, who believes she has had greater freedom to lead as a non-officer woman, saying that it’s her experience that qualifies her for her current role. ‘My gender has been irrelevant during the past 18 years of employment with The Salvation Army,’ she says. Married female headquarters officers often did not get independent appointments until 1997, when Commissioner June Kendrew (now retired) was appointed as Territorial Women’s Ministry Secretary—an international first. Advocating strongly for the development of women during
her senior leadership tenure, June observes that much of the discrimination she faced following her training in 1960 is now being addressed by leadership. Like Rhondda, Northland Bridge Director Major Sue Hay affirms that as a woman working in the social sphere, she’s been ‘accepted as a leader based on my skills and clinical qualifications. In New Zealand’s current cultural context, I do not experience barriers based on gender’. However, Sue believes there’s still much work for The Salvation Army to do. ‘We need to explore how to appoint people into very senior roles which match their gifting rather than our current gender-based roles and responsibilities.’ Central Division Secretary for Programme, Major Christina Tyson, agrees. ‘There’s still a need to challenge the culture that says if women lead, they are best to do so in a particular way. A lot of women have great ideas but continually need to lobby and persuade (which takes time), rather than simply set a course. ‘Males seem able to make decisions and take the lead, while women must tread cautiously—when we don’t, we can be labelled “bossy” or “demanding”. Strong leadership in males is viewed as a character strength, while in females this can be seen as emasculating of males.’ Echoing Christina, Sue raises an important point: ‘I don’t think we teach enough on how to live as equally-valued in our relationships when our roles hold different levels of organisational power.’ Northern Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries and Divisional Secretary for Personnel, Major Liz Gainsford, states that, ‘I’m determined to play a part in changing the culture of the Army for women—but this starts with me. If I’m not prepared to be intentional in my own development, to speak out, and to be in the room when important discussions are happening, then things will never change.’
A voice from the past with a message for today An 1891 issue of War Cry records the words of Staff-Captain Emily Grinling, and they are as true today as ever they were: ‘Salvationist women of New Zealand rise up … go forth to fight bravely … and do your part in the great salvation war. Lasses, live up to your privileges and stand up for your rights!’ 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 9
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Are you a grandparent taking on the care of your grandies? You’re not alone! Increasing numbers of Kiwi grandparents are stepping up and raising newborns right through to adolescents. And they need our support. The reasons for this are complex, but include the sudden death of an adult child, mental illness, substance abuse or incarceration. It’s not what most seniors expect to be doing at this stage of life, but they’re doing it anyway. And it’s not uncommon for grandparents to access Salvation Army services when finding themselves suddenly responsible for the care of grandchildren. But what they need is compassion and practical help—not judgement. For most who say ‘yes’ to this responsibility, significant readjustment to their lives is required, as well as the need to support grandchildren coping with change. Often grandchildren arrive bewildered following trauma, and may be angry, confused and fearful. It’s a lot to take on. But many grandparents bravely agree anyway, wanting to keep children in their whānau and prevent them going into foster care. One grandmother raising her mokopuna said that although it was physically demanding, the wisdom of her years was a real benefit: ‘With my own children I was always running around cleaning and stuff, but this time around I have learnt that spending time with my grandchildren is the most important thing. As you go on in life, you learn what’s important.’ War Cry readers can support grandparents in prayer, and by understanding the following three key areas that caregivers face when taking on the care of grandchildren—as outlined on the ‘Grandparents Raising Grandchildren’ (GRG) website:
‘AS YOU GO ON IN LIFE, YOU LEARN WHAT’S IMPORTANT.’ For those heroic grandparents reading, you are not alone in this journey—there are others treading the same path, as well as experts and experienced caregivers walking alongside, to provide resources and practical support. GRG also offers a roadmap for grandparents, and you can click on the following Rs on their website for even more information:
Adapting—to becoming the full-time caregiver
First response—crisis support for grandparents who have suddenly had to take care of their grandchildren
Updating—raising children in today’s environment is very different to their first experience parenting
Rights and responsibilities—Understanding the legal situation; your rights and responsibilities as full-time caregiver
Restoring—overcoming the fallout and moving on, so that the new family can be healthy and functional.
Relating—Understanding the world your grandchildren live in, their needs and how to relate to them as a full-time caregiver
‘What children need most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance. They give unconditional love, kindness, patience, humour, comfort, lessons in life. And, most importantly, cookies.’ Rudy Giuliani
Resilience—Being prepared for the life stages ahead and equipped to handle future challenges Resolution—Life beyond trauma. Learning to deal with the consequences of what has happened for both you and your grandchildren Rebuilding—Your lives have changed. Strategies for rebuilding and stabilising your family and their wellbeing. Source: grg.org.nz
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TESTIFY! Sad faces and wicked scars—that’s what probably comes to mind when you hear the words ‘breast cancer’. But Salvationist Cara Reddish says her experience ‘is more like happy faces and faint scars’. When I was younger, I listened to testimonies on the radio a lot. Most of them were from people who had something terrible happen to them. The event had changed them—with God’s help—into amazing people of God. As a result, I swung from wanting to have something bad happen to me so I could be transformed, to being scared that something bad would happen to me! But I realised that I could put things in place in my life that would eventually make me a good woman of God— without the need for a disaster in my life. I worked to develop habits that included spending time with God in prayer and reading the Bible, listening to Christian music and teachings (mostly on Rhema), attending church and being part of a small group. At the age of 42, I was prompted to get a mammogram (suggested by my lovely doctor and taken up because of a niggling thought). When a cancer was found, I thought, ‘Oh wow, after all these years something terrible has happened!’ It was terrible because, while I’m keen for hanging out with Jesus and eternal rest, I would miss my family. My brush with cancer was quite a journey—and still will be for the next few years as I have an increased risk of getting it again—but I felt supported. Through scans, biopsies, waiting, diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, I know lots of people were praying for us and that was amazing! Maybe more important were the habits that kept me within easy reach of God— and God was able to use those habits to strengthen, comfort, correct, heal, counsel and bless me during this time.
‘SLOW AND STEADY TRANSFORMATION BY GOD … IS JUST AS VALID AS AMAZING “WHAM” ENCOUNTERS … ’ For example, as I was driving for the first time to a treatment which required me to hold air in my lungs, the song ‘Great are you Lord’ played on the radio. The words were, ‘It’s your breath in my lungs’ … I was chastised for my pride and selfishness, refusing help, when I saw that my kids were taking notice of how our church family supported us with gifts, meals and taking on some of my responsibilities. When I was at a prayer meeting, but not able to tell people yet, it came to me that as Jesus was on his way to heal the people we were praying for, I could ‘touch his cloak’. That night, my reading happened to be Mark 5, where the woman was healed as Jesus was on his way to Jairus’ daughter—a
confirmation! And there were so many more examples of God’s presence! Slow and steady transformation by God through spiritual disciplines, and little God moments, is just as valid as amazing ‘wham’ encounters—and possibly more sustainable, especially through tough and desert times. So, if you are a woman in your forties, know your body and go have a mammogram. Most of all, make sure you are in the habit of being within easy reach of God and he will use those opportunities to bless you! Breast Cancer Awareness Month is coming up in October. Show your support—and if you’re a woman over 40, book in for a mammogram. 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 11
, p i s s o G
I’M NOT ONE TO
BUT …
Research shows that most of us gossip for almost an hour a day. But is a bond built on gossip a friend or frenemy? R BY BE TH AN Y SL AU GH TE
Making friends is hard, whether you’re moving to a new school, uni, job, or neighbourhood. There is no formula, no checklist to tick off. Even similar interests are not a ‘bonding guarantee’. That is why it can be tempting to cling to any possible connection to start up a friendship and become part of a group—and why it feels all too easy to join in with gossip. In a complaint culture, gossiping is one of the easiest ways to connect with other people— but can a friendship built on mutual dislike of someone else be healthy?
FF O N T H E NG OFF TIN STA TARTI
FOOT WRONG FO
Gossip is addictive—earlier this year, a study from the University of California–Riverside found that people gossip for an average of 52 minutes each day. People may gossip to feel powerful, to get attention, out of anger, boredom, or jealousy, and many do it to feel accepted and fit in. Research professor and author Brené Brown coined the term ‘common enemy intimacy’. It describes friendships built on mutual dislike of another person (or group of people), forged through gossip, complaints, and ‘venting’. The relationship is formed quickly because of the intense shared emotion but carries with it an expectation and acceptance of complaining about your shared ‘enemy’.
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eit ‘Common enemy intimacy is counterf belonging. If the connection and the opposite of true that we hate the bond we share with others is simply ce is often same people, the intimacy we experien easy way to an and g, intense, immediately gratifyin ever, fuel how not, discharge outrage and pain. It is burns hot, for real connection. It’s fuel that runs tion,’ says fast, and leaves a trail of polluted emo ss. Brené, in her book Braving the Wilderne tive nega a sets acy’ ‘Common enemy intim to turn p dshi frien precedent, which can cause the or out ing sour, resulting in the relationship fizzl long how r all, friends turning into ‘frenemies’. Afte negative will it take you to start projecting your other? each onto you nd feelings about those arou
GOD AND GOSSIP
As the saying goes, people who gossip to you will also gossip about you. God is clear on how he feels about gossip, recognising both its harmfulness and its addictiveness. In Proverbs 26:20–22, it says, ‘Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip quarrel dies down … The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.’ God calls us to love both our neighbours and our enemies. When we gossip, we are not living out this instruction. In Matthew 7, Jesus compared someone who followed his teachings to a person who builds their home on solid rock. When the storm hits, the house stands firm. In comparison, someone who ignores God’s word is like a person who builds a house on sand.
When the storm hit s, the foundation is tested, and the ho In a similar way, wh use falls. en we build friends hips on kindness, th solid and likely to su ey’re rvive. In comparison , a friendship built mean girls or guys around crumbles under pr essure. No matter it may seem on the how strong surface, it is charac terised by the toxic bubbling below. behaviour
FRIEND OR FRENEMY?
Think about how you met your friends and what you usually talk about. How often do complaints and gossip weave their way into your conversations? If you recognise gossipy behaviour within your friendships, try to set a new example. In Ephesians 4:29, we are told, ‘Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen’. If you can’t add anything positive to the conversation, change the topic and try to strengthen the connections of the interests you share. Would you prefer to spend time with someone who does nothing but gossip? Or would you want to be friends with a person who will walk with you during the tough times, who you can trust to keep things confidential, and who likes you for being you—not because you’re someone who they can vent to? When you make the choice to be kinder and resist the urge to gossip, you will find your friendships are made stronger because of it.
21 days
COU LD YYOOUU GGOO WITHOUT COMPL AINING?
SHOW THE
Goss
S! WHO’S BOSSS
Here’s some tips for avoiding gossip without things getting super awkward: 1 Change the Topic. Whether you or somebody else starts to gossip, once you recognise it, gently switch the topic. 2 Initiate real talk. Get into some meaningful conversation about the person you are speaking to or a common interest, rather than somebody else. 3 Know the difference between talking about someone and gossiping. Be honest with yourself about when the conversation is harmful. 4 Speak life! Use positive words and practice finding the good in everyday life and in everybody you meet.
The Complaint Free challenge was created by Will Bowen, a minister in the United States. The test is to make it 21 days without complaining about anything—whether it’s intentionally nasty gossip or grumbling about the bus running late— and it takes most people 4–8 months to complete! To challenge yourself, wear a wristband and every time you realise you are complaining about something, switch the wristband to your other hand. The aim is to pass 21 days without the wristband switching hands. Maybe you can try this challenge with another friend, make each other accountable, and support oneanother in making your conversations complaint-free.
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Wellington Mayor Aims to Show ‘Servant Leadership’
Wellington Mayor Justin Lester says he owes ‘an enormous debt of gratitude’ to community groups like The Salvation Army. He talks about growing up in a state house as the child of a beneficiary, to becoming Mayor of our capital city. BY INGRID BARRATT
Justin Lester gets more than 30,000 invitations to events every year, yet when he was asked to speak at The Salvation Army’s Just Action Conference it was an easy ‘yes’. ‘I have an enormous debt of gratitude to the community and how they supported me when I was growing up, so anything to do with social justice, community services, community support—I am always really happy to say “yes”,’ explains Justin. The Mayor, who is known for his values-based policies, is no stranger to The Salvation Army. He vividly recalls being picked up in the Army van every Sunday to attend the local corps in Invercargill, where he was raised. His school principal and teacher were local Salvationists Colin and Jill Garrett, and he grew up with their children. ‘They offered support. My dad died quite young, and The Salvation Army supported us,’ says Justin.
His biggest influence Even before this, his dad was mainly off the scene—drifting in and out of their lives. Justin and his two brothers were raised by their mother, which he says has been the single biggest motivator in his political life. ‘The biggest influence was growing up in a state house, with a single parent who was a beneficiary. My mum didn’t have a job and was raising three boys, which was a full-time job. ‘It gives you an acute awareness and understanding that life is not easy for everyone, and but for a change in circumstance, 14 WarCry 21 SEPTEMBER 2019
life could be very different. My mum came from a strong family in Christchurch, but she married the wrong man.’ He remembers at the age of 11, just after his dad died, the ‘mother of all budgets’ came out, slashing beneficiary payments. ‘I could see her distressed, anxious, it felt wrong,’ recalls Justin. ‘The societal sentiment was that beneficiaries were bludgers, no hopers, parasites, lazy and a drain on society. Meanwhile, what I could see, was that mum was working hard to stay afloat, to raise three boys. ‘My father was gone, but he wasn’t found at fault by society. I saw that my mother was the courageous one, she was the one doing the hard work, but she was being vilified.’ Justin defied the odds by going on to Otago university—even completing a Masters of Law at the University of Heidelberg in Germany. He was one of only four from his Decile 2 primary school that went on to university. ‘I got to university and was staggered that people were there not by virtue of their intelligence, but because they’d been prepared for it their whole lives. ‘I looked at people I had grown up with. Those kids were no less smart than the kids that went to the affluent school—the biggest difference was they didn’t see that pathway. All they knew was working at the freezing works.’ In his early twenties, Justin and his family settled in Wellington and co-founded a successful Wellington food business called Kapai. But at the age of 32, he decided it was time to ‘give back’ by getting involved in local government. In 2016, Justin was elected Mayor of Wellington.
Justin says that in his role as mayor, he lives by ‘the concept of servant leadership’. ‘That’s what I seek to espouse in my role as mayor. I’m here because I’m trying to repay that debt of gratitude.’ One of the first issues Justin championed as a city councillor, was the living wage for all its workers. He’s now proud that Wellington City Council is the ‘first and only’ living wage accredited council in the country. ‘It was huge—immediately those people felt valued, they felt they were part of something bigger,’ reflects Justin. This continues to have a ripple effect throughout the region—just recently, a council-controlled organisation also became living wage accredited. ‘Within days, multiple people came up to me and said that this makes a huge difference in their life—because they are working adults with families. It’s about dignity, confidence, respect.’ When I ask whether the living wage is unaffordable for business, he answers simply: ‘Not true’. ‘If you’re a small business and you can’t afford it, you don’t have to do it. But if you can afford it, you should.’ Justin has also fought to see greater representation of women in the council. ‘I studied jurisprudence, which shows that laws usually benefit the people they are being made by, which tended to be elderly white men. ‘That is engrained in society—for example, a male would very seldom take on an administration job, whereas it’s expected of women. The only way we can get women to achieve equality is to support them.’
The council is currently working to convert office buildings into long-term rental properties. The council will then take on 15year leases, which means renters can still have housing stability, their kids can stay at the same primary school, and their rent will only be adjusted for inflation. The council has taken its inspiration from cities like Paris, where 25 percent of its accommodation is public housing. ‘No one is going to commute an hour and a half into Paris for work if they’re on low wages,’ reflects Justin. ‘Affordable housing is the critical social issue—it’s the thing that gives people confidence, security, it gives them a platform and we don’t have enough of it.’ When I ask Justin why values-based policies are important to him, he answers again simply, ‘Because of my mum’. ‘I can see how, if you’re not at the start line with everybody else, how hard it is. Therefore, everyone deserves to be at the start line.’ Wellington Mayor Justin Lester will be speaking at Just Action, from 1–2 October, in Wellington.
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One issue that has continued to loom large during Justin’s mayoralty is housing affordability. With rent now the highest in the country, Wellington is fast becoming a city for the very rich. ‘Yep, I agree and that’s not a city that I want. That’s not what I want to see happen in our country either,’ says Justin. But it’s not just about market forces, Justin believes councils have a role to play in housing affordability. Unlike many cities, Wellington has not sold its social housing, making it one of the largest landlords in the country. ‘But we need more,’ admits Justin. Around 400 social housing units are currently being developed. In one exciting initiative, the council is planning to build the city’s first ‘wet houses’—homes where people can be supported, before they get sober. In partnership with Housing NZ and City Mission, 100 supported living units are being developed: ‘We know that those who are vulnerable and on the streets need supported living— round-the-clock care—to get them back on their feet and sustain their tenancies.’ In the units, each tenant will have a case worker providing wrap-around support—including budget services, case workers, help with paying bills, and even help with collecting benefits if needed. ‘If you have addiction or mental health issues, it can be hard to sustain a tenancy, and up to 90 percent within six months will be out of their home,’ explains Justin. ‘Shelters are a good emergency response, but they’re not a home. You need housing.’ There is also the growing problem of the ‘middle-class poor’—working families who have been priced out of the city.
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‘THE SOCIETAL SENTIMENT WAS THAT BENEFICIARIES WERE BLUDGERS … MEANWHILE, WHAT I COULD SEE, WAS THAT MUM WAS WORKING HARD TO STAY AFLOAT.’
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To this day, it’s his early years that compel him: ‘I’m now very fortunate be to in a stable family with a good income, but I’ve seen both sides of the coin.’
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1–2 October 2019 Wellington City Corps • 92 Vivian St Wellington Register now at salvationarmy.org.nz/just-action-2019
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GAZETTE Promotion to Glory: Major Lola Bailey, on Monday 2 September 2019, from Auckland, aged 85 years. Lola Jessie was born in Wellington on 28 May 1934. Lola and John Bailey entered The Salvation Army Training College from Lower Hutt Corps in 1969 as members of ‘The Evangelists’ session. They were commissioned on 17 January 1970 and appointed to Epsom Lodge, Auckland. This was followed by appointments over the next five years as Corps Officers in Temuka, Port Chalmers and Balclutha. In 1977 Lola and John were appointed back to Epsom Lodge as Assistant Officers, followed by appointments at Auckland Bridge and Auckland Social Services and Resthaven Eventide Home. In 1988 Lola and John moved to Omaio Village Home, Nelson, as Assistant Managers. In January 1989 they were appointed to Eltham Mercy Jenkins Eventide Home for a short period of time, where Lola was the Matron. Later in July they were appointed as assistants on Rotoroa Island. In January 1991 Lola and John’s final appointment was at Community and Family Services, Auckland, and it is from this appointment that they retired together from active service on 1 August 1998. Lola will long be remembered for her art work and creativity. For the following 10 years (in retirement) Lola held art classes once a month on Rotoroa Island. We honour Major Lola Bailey for her years of active service as an officer and her continued faithful service in retirement. Please uphold Lola’s children Mercedes, Avon and Narina and their families, in prayer during this time of grief and loss. Well done, good and faithful servant! Promotion to Glory: Major Betty Hales, on Tuesday 27 August 2019 from Kilbirnie, aged 96 years. Betty Edith Hales was born in Queenstown on 16 March 1923. She was warranted as a Territorial Envoy on 22 January 1959 and appointed as Assistant Officer, Westport Corps. In 1961 while at Westport Corps Betty was promoted to Auxiliary Captain. An appointment as Assistant Officer, Temuka Corps followed in January 1969 and later that year Betty became the Officer in Charge. A change in 1970 saw Betty appointed as Home Officer at Wellington Bethany Hospital for three months, before entering The Salvation Army Training College, from Brooklyn Corps as a cadet in the ‘Victorious Session’. Following her commissioning on 16 January 1971 she was appointed back to the Training College as Education Officer for seven years. In 1978 Betty was appointed as Training and Finance Officer to the Fiji Region until her retirement on 7 April 1983. We honour Major Betty Hales and thank her for her loyal commitment, love and wisdom over her years of active officership and wonderful on-going ministry and support in the Kilbirnie Corps. Please uphold Betty’s extended
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family at this time of grief and loss. Well done, ‘Victorious’ servant of Jesus Christ!
ANNUAL GENERAL CHANGE 2019 The following appointments will take effect on Thursday 9 January 2020. Following consultation with the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory’s Territorial Executive Council (TEC) members regarding the name of the Territorial Programme Section and related appointments, IHQ have approved the name change for the Programme Section as follows: 1. Programme Section will become the Mission Section 2. Territorial Secretary for Programme will become Territorial Secretary for Mission 3. Assistant Territorial Secretary for Programme will become Assistant Territorial Secretary for Mission 4. Divisional Secretary for Programme will become Divisional Secretary for Mission 5. Assistant Divisional Secretary for Programme will become Assistant Divisional Secretary for Mission These changes will take place at the General Change 2020. Reserved Appointments Appointments that require approval from International Headquarters. THQ, Mission Section (Previously Programme Section): Colonel Melvin Fincham, Territorial Secretary for Mission (previously Programme) THQ, Communications Section: Mjr Michelle Collins, Territorial Secretary for Communications; Mjr Michelle Collins, Book Production Manager (additional appointment). Mjr Michelle Collins will take up her new appointments with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Fiji Division, Divisional Leaders: Capt Andrew Moffatt, Divisional Commander; Capt Rochelle Moffatt, Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries; Capt Rochelle Moffatt, Divisional Secretary for Personnel (additional appointment). Tonga Region, Regional Leaders: Capt Kenneth Walker, Regional Commander; Capt Catherine Walker, Regional Director of Women’s Ministries and Sponsorship Secretary; Capt Catherine Walker, Regional Community Ministries Officer (additional appointment); Capt Catherine Walker, Kindergarten Coordinator (additional appointment). Booth College of Mission: Mjr Garth Stevenson, Principal; Mjr Suzanne Stevenson, Assistant Principal. School For Officer Training, New Zealand: Mjr Garth Stevenson, Training Principal; Mjr Suzanne Stevenson, Assistant Training Principal with responsibility for School for Officer Training, Fiji (additional appointment).
Territorial Exchange Appointment Australia Territory Queensland Division: Mjr Racheal-Lee Kendrick, Corps Officer, Redcliffe City Corps Territorial Headquarters THQ, Personnel Section: Capt Kylie Tong, Territorial Candidates Secretary (full time); Mjr Paul Herring, THQ Projects Officer. THQ, Mission Section (Previously Programme Section): Capt Gerald Walker, Assistant Territorial Secretary for Mission (previously Programme) Northern Division Mjr Shar Davis, Divisional Secretary for Mission (previously Programme); Capt Naomi Holt, Divisional Candidates Secretary (additional appointment) (continuing appointments as Divisional Youth Secretary and Divisional Spiritual Life Development and Prayer Coordinator); Capt Nathan Holt, Divisional Candidates Secretary (additional appointment) (continuing appointments as Divisional Youth Secretary and Divisional Emergency Services Coordinator); Mjr Janee Sawyer, Divisional Secretary for Retired Officers (part time) (Appointment in Retirement); Mjrs Alister and Anne Irwin, Corps Officers, Auckland City Corps; Mjrs Alister and Anne Irwin, Directors, Auckland City Early Childhood Education Centre; Capts Malia and Sila Siufanga, Corps Officers, Glenfield Corps; Capt Sila Siufanga, Director, Glenfield Community Ministries, North Shore Service Hub; Lieut Erica Kearse, Corps Officer, Mt Albert Corps; Mjrs Bruce and Marilyn Tremain, Corps Officers, New Lynn Corps. Midland Division Lieut Mere Gina Gataurua, Divisional Secretary for Mission (previously Programme); Lieut Saimone Gataurua, Divisional Secretary for Mission (previously Programme); Lieut Mere Gina Gataurua, Divisional Secretary for Retired Officers (additional appointment); Lieut Saimone Gataurua, Divisional Secretary for Retired Officers (additional appointment); Capt Missy Ditchburn, Divisional Candidates Secretary (additional appointment) (continuing appointment as Divisional Children’s Secretary); Mjr Bruce Tong, Divisional Spiritual Life Development and Prayer Coordinator (additional appointment) (continuing appointment as Corps Officer, Thames Corps); Capts Christine and Karl Foreman, Team Leaders, Taranaki Region (continuing appointments as Corps Officer, New Plymouth Corps and Directors, New Plymouth Community Ministries); Capt Robert Gardiner, Assistant Officer, Taranaki Region, with responsibility for Central Taranaki Corps (Appointment in Retirement) (continuing appointment as Divisional Emergency Services Coordinator); Mjrs Anne and Peter Lewis, Corps Officers, Mount Maunganui Corps.
Central Division Capt Stuart Tong, Divisional Secretary for Mission (previously Programme); Mjr Stephanie Herring, Divisional Spiritual Life Development and Prayer Coordinator (additional appointment) (continuing appointments as Assistant Divisional Secretary for Mission and Divisional Secretary for Retired Officers); Capt Denise Daly, Divisional Candidates Secretary (additional appointment) (continuing appointments as Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries and Divisional Secretary for Personnel); Mjr Jeannine Serevi, Divisional Youth and Children’s Secretary; Mjr Mark Ennever, Regional Property and Projects Manager (full time); Capt Josevata Serevi, Court Officer, Court Services, Wellington; Lieuts Adam and Sarah-Ann Grove, Corps Officers, Wairarapa Region; Mjrs Christina and Keith Tyson, Corps Officers, Newtown (Wellington South); Mjr Silone Collins, Assistant Officer, Newtown (Wellington South) Corps, with responsibility for Kilbirnie Corps; Envoy Marilyn McRae, Corps Leader, Woodville Corps (Appointment in Retirement); Envoy Peter McRae, Corps Leader, Woodville Corps. Southern Division Mjr Susan Goldsack, Divisional Secretary for Mission (previously Programme); Mjr Susan Goldsack, Divisional Spiritual Life Development and Prayer Coordinator (additional appointment); Mjr Deane Goldsack, Divisional Emergency Services Coordinator; Mjr Deane Goldsack, Court Officer, Christchurch (additional appointment); Lieuts Emma and Jacob Howan, Corps Officers, Blenheim Corps; Lieut Jacob Howan, Referral Officer, Blenheim, SASH (additional appointment); Mjrs Allan and Linda Bateman, Corps Officers, Christchurch City Corps; Mjr Linda Bateman, Director, Christchurch City Community Ministries; Mjrs Graham and Lynne Medland, Team Leaders, Christchurch East (continuing appointments as Corps Officers, Linwood Corps); Mjr Lynne Medland, Director, Christchurch East Community Ministries; Lieut Beany Cho, Team Member, Christchurch East, with responsibility for Aranui Mission; Lieut Beany Cho, Corps Officer, Aranui Corps; Mjrs Denise and Kenneth Smith, Corps Officers, Nelson Tasman Bays Corps; Lieuts Rachel and Simon Montgomery, Corps Officers, Oamaru Corps; Capt Andrew Bright, Corps Officer, Tīmaru Corps; Capt Andrew Bright, Director, Tīmaru Community Ministries; Envoy Lynda Bright, Assistant Corps Leader, Tīmaru Corps. Fiji Division Mjr Phillippa Serevi, Divisional Secretary for Mission (previously Programme); Capt Varea Rika, Divisional Youth and Children’s Secretary; Capt Varea Rika, Divisional Family Care Centre Secretary (additional appointment); Mjr Louisa Ranamalo Raico, Divisional Spiritual Life Development and Prayer Coordinator (additional
appointment) (continuing appointments as Divisional Secretary of Women’s Ministries and Assistant Officer, DHQ); Mjr Louisa Ranamalo Raico, Court and Corrections Officer / Chaplain (Women), Suva (additional appointment); Mjr Arone Cheer, Divisional Child Sponsorship Projects Champion (additional appointment) (continuing appointment as Corps Officer, Nasinu Corps); Capt Salesi Temo, Divisional Coordinator for Emergency Services (additional appointment); Capts Salesi and Taina Temo, Corps Officers, Lautoka Corps; Lieuts Ruci and Seru Napolioni, Corps Officers, Nadi Corps; Lieuts Ruci and Seru Napolioni, Chaplains, Nadi Airport Chaplaincy (additional appointment); Lieuts Adriano and Seremana Rokovesa, Corps Planting Officers, Navua Corps Plant; Lieuts Peniasi and Tavaita Torocake, Corps Officers, Saweni Corps; Capts Litiana and Tevita Lewetuitovo, Corps Officers, Sigatoka Corps; Lieuts Faleata and Raechal Leha, Corps Officers, Suva Central Corps. Tonga Region Lieut Selalina Prescott, Regional Spiritual Life Development and Prayer Coordinator (additional appointment) (continuing appointments as Regional Candidates Secretary and Corps Officer, Nuku’alofa Corps); Mjr Kesoni and Merewalesi Qoriniasi, Corps Officers, Vaini Corps. Addictions, Supportive Accommodation and Reintegration Services (ASARS) Mjr Karl Saunders, Mission Support Officer and Case Worker, Bridge Auckland; Lieut Fraser Kearse, Mission Assistant, Bridge Recovery Church, Auckland; Mjr Helen Knowles, Mission Director, Bridge Wellington; Mjr Helen Knowles, Chaplain, Bridge Recovery Church, Wellington (additional appointment); Mjr Helen Knowles, Mission Director, Oasis Wellington (additional appointment); Capts Christina and David McEwen, Chaplains, Dunedin Bridge (additional appointment) (continuing appointments as Corps Officers, Dunedin City Corps and Directors, Dunedin City Community Ministries; Lieut Emma Howan, Chaplain, Hospice Marlborough (additional appointment). Booth College of Mission School for Officer Training, New Zealand Mjr Katherine Sonntag, Senior Training Officer; Mjr Suzanne Stevenson, Senior Training Officer (additional appointment); Mjr Suzanne Stevenson, Spiritual Formation Officer (additional appointment). School for Officer Training, Fiji Capt Dale McFarlane, Senior Training Officer Centre for Learning and Development, Upper Hutt Mjr Milton Collins, Director; Mjr Milton Collins will continue his appointment with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Officers Concluding Appointments in Retirement at General Change Mjrs David and Judith Bennett; Mjrs Brent and Marlene Diack; Mjr Malcolm Herring; Mjrs Janee and Russell Sawyer; Mjr Anthony Stone. Officers Retiring Capt Lindsay Andrews, 23 October 2019; Envoy Geoffry Smith, 30 November 2019; Envoy Jillian Smith, 30 November 2019; Mjr Wendy Andrews, 10 December 2019; Mjr Beverley Macdonald, 8 January 2020; Mjr Peter Macdonald, 8 January 2020; Mjr Kathleen Garbett, 8 January 2020; Mjr Lyn Beets, 8 January 2020; Mjr Denise Crump, 8 January 2020; Mjr Stephen Crump, 8 January 2020; Envoy Marilyn McRae, 8 January 2020; Lieut. Colonel Gordon Daly, 14 January 2020; Lieut. Colonel Susan Daly, 16 January 2020; Commissioner Andrew Westrupp, 31 January 2020; Commissioner Yvonne Westrupp, 31 January 2020 Reacceptance of Officers The Territorial Commander is pleased to announce the reacceptance to officership of Jeannine Serevi, with the rank of Major, and Josevata (Joe) Serevi, with the rank of Captain. This takes effect on 9 January 2020. Envoy Service The Territorial Commander is pleased to announce that Lynda Bright has been accepted for Envoy Service in the Territory. This takes effect on 9 January 2020. Messengers of The Kingdom—Ngā Karere o te Kingitanga Session THQ, Mission Section: Lieut Charlene Whybrow, Chaplain, Blue Mountain Adventure Centre. Midland Division: Lieuts Charlene and Jonathan Whybrow, Corps Officers, Taupō Corps; Lieuts Charlene and Jonathan Whybrow, Directors, Taupō Community Ministries. Southern Division: Lieuts Andrew and Lexee Dunlop, Corps Officers, Winton Corps. Addictions, Supportive Accommodation And Reintegration Services: Lieut Cassandra Henderson, Mission Director, Bridge Recovery Church, Auckland. Messengers of Grace—Ngā Karere o te Manu Tapu Session Cadets Eddie and Tofi Metotisi, Cadets in Training, Ōtāhuhu Corps
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Great Turnout for Tonga Kids’ Camp We were amazed that 95 kids turned up for Kids Camp 2019, along with 20 leaders, at Montfort Institute at Fangaloto, Tongatapu. Considering it was not even the school holidays, this was a huge turnout. The weekend was focused on the theme ‘Jesus is My Saviour’. The programme was planned and organised by the Regional Children’s Working Group. The camp kicked off on Friday night with dinner and then continued on to group activities and fellowship. Then it was time for a bedtime story at the dormitory. We were blessed to have guest speakers who was able to encourage and challenge our kids from the Word of God in their own creative ways during the camp: Reverend Penisimani ‘Akauola Tonga, Mrs Kalolaine Katoa and Mrs Sela Nakao. We had a great time of praise and worship—led by the worship team, and our children and help from the leaders. One of the highlights for the ministry every year is that when we have a weekend programme for children, our Salvation Army kids invite their friends from school and their communities to join us. It is an honour to glorify God through serving these children.
During the sessions led by the guest speakers, they encouraged the children and talked about the importance of why God sent his Son Jesus to die on the cross for us (John 3:16)—to save us from sin, and that is why Jesus became our Saviour. Our good work can’t save us, nor our money, but only Jesus can save us. He is the way, the truth and the life. We also had an opportunity for the kids to explore their talents on Saturday afternoon, and it was a blessing to see the potential and the strengths of our children through this talent showcase. We also hired a jumping castle and slide for two hours and the kids enjoyed the rest of the Saturday afternoon. We finished off with a session led by Mrs Sela on Sunday morning, and after lunch everyone headed home. BY FILIPE SAAFI
New Zeal Report—Fiji Corps in the West Combine Corps in the west of Fiji gathered at Lautoka Corps for the New Zeal Encounter Sunday featuring the message by Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham. Close to four hundred members of the seven corps around the west attended. The meeting was ably led by Lautoka’s corps officers and all the corps took part in presenting an item each. Chairman of the West Officers’ Network Lieutenant Peniasi Torocake said, ‘The message by the Chief of the Staff was indeed the message of the hour, where we as Salvationists needed to dig deep and reflect on the gist of the message, “Can these bones live again?”. Yes it can ... by the power of the Holy Spirit.’ Everyone present was challenged after the sermon and responded accordingly to the Word of God. After lunch everyone departed for home, full of zeal and hungry for a greater encounter with God’s Holy Spirit. 18 WarCry 21 SEPTEMBER 2019
REPORT BY LT PENIASI TOROCAKE
‘IS GOD CALLING PEOPLE AND THEY ARE NOT RESPONDING?’
Tribute: Allan Dunsmore Allan Burt Dunsmore was Promoted to Glory on 20 February 2019 in Levin, aged 71. For 10 years he lived with Parkinson’s and Lewy’s Bodies Dementia, and spent the past five years in care. Allan was a devoted husband to Marlene, dedicated Dad to Stefan, Bridget and Wayne, Callum and Faenza, and treasured Papa to his 10 grandchildren— some of whom never knew him as an active grandfather, but nonetheless treated him as an important part of their lives. Allan’s family are eternally grateful for care received and for the constant support shown by loyal friends and extended family. Allan grew up in Gisborne, the younger son of Jim and Myrtle. With his brother and sisters, Allan spent his youth involved in the corps. His career took him to Wellington, then other ports around the country. After marrying, he and Marlene lived in Napier, Wellington, Taumarunui and Palmerston North for the first 10 years, then settled in Levin where their three children grew up. Allan served God through The Salvation Army as a bandsman, songster (and leader), corps treasurer and event organiser, and his generous spirit benefited many. For 30 years he was involved in his own local business, Rotary, sport, school boards, inter-church events and more, which gave him access to many people. In turn, he made himself available to anyone who needed him. Evidence of respect for Allan and his family was shown by the hundreds at his service and the countless apologies from those unable to attend spoke volumes. The funeral tributes told of Allan’s involvement with family and friends, rather than of all his achievements and willing service—these were heralded in the following Sunday’s service. Extended family members were later asked by others ‘Should we have gone away from a funeral feeling so uplifted?’ The answer was YES … God was praised through music and word, for God’s gift of life and family and that, at last, Allan would be ‘healed in heaven’!
Forty years is a long time, and in January next year, I will have completed that many years of officer service. Someone asked me the other day if I could have this time again, would I do the same thing? This question led me to more questions: what has my officership journey been like? What difference has it made? Do I regret this commitment? As an officer, I have had opportunities I don’t think I would have had serving in another way. I’ve been able to support people going through tragedy and loss, journey with people as they have discovered God is real, loves them and wants to be part of their everyday lives, and to contribute what I have in situations of need. I have been part of some exciting mission initiatives such as corps planting and Territorial Strategic Mission advocacy, as well as journeying with people through the candidate process and serving in Papua New Guinea. Yes, I have made sacrifices of submitting to an appointing system, of sometimes not having choice, of being away from family and friends, and of often being out of my comfort zone. However, the fulfilment of following God’s call has far outweighed any sacrifice. The fact that God would choose to give me the opportunity to be part of his transformational work amazes me. That transformational work is what’s happening in me, as well as what’s happening in others. So, no, I don’t regret my commitment to officership. And, yes, I would do it again— which connects in my thinking to this concern that I have. We only have three candidates accepted for officer training in 2020. We celebrate the call and commitment of these three, but my concern is the overall picture. We have never had such a low number of candidates in the history of our territory and we are at a time when, with the number of retirements of officers, we cannot sustain officer leadership without at least 14 candidates entering training each year. So, as a territory, we are facing a crisis around this. Is God calling people and they are not responding? Are people afraid to take the faith step? Does this mean people are missing out on the opportunities God has for them? I have found this Bible verse to be a great support: ‘The Lord is the One who goes before you. He will be with you. He will be faithful to you and will not leave you alone,’ (Deuteronomy 31:8). Would you think and pray about whether God is calling you to explore officership? If you think he could be, take a faith step and contact Captain Kylie Tong, Territorial Candidates Secretary (kylie.tong@salvationarmy.org.nz) to find out more! Commissioner Yvonne Westrupp Territorial President of Women’s Ministries 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 19
Th e Art o f
Listening to God at Marion Sanders, who grew up as a Salvationist, has spent her adult life following her calling as a teacher. She describes how God’s hand has guided her everyday working life, to create a master portrait.
We may ignore, but we can nowhere evade, the presence of God. The world is crowded with him. He walks everywhere “incognito”. And the incognito is not always hard to penetrate. The real labour is to remember to attend. In fact, to come awake. Still more, to remain awake. CS Lewis, Letters to Malcolm.
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became familiar with Psalm 139 at a young age. While I found much of the psalm a great comfort, I now realise that I interpreted verses 7–10 in a rather punitive way: ‘Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?’ Perhaps linking them with the story of Jonah, I saw these verses as a warning that God is aware of my every move and, therefore, I needed to be careful not to disappoint him. I now realise that this fearful ‘I need to watch out’ interpretation misses the point. Instead, I adopt a joyful ‘he’s watching over me’ kind of interpretation—an awareness of the ever-present, indeed constant, loving intervention of God in my daily life, which I sincerely welcome. We often miss this constant care. We are not so good at spotting the sacred
in everyday life, mainly because we’re not looking or listening for it. We become too busy, hurriedly rushing from task to task, from conversation to task, to event … This way of being has been described as hurry sickness—the result of the lost art of lingering with God and with others. When I recognise that God intervenes, I have more patience and trust in his purposes, and find more joy in daily life. My testimony is that God is present with us in our vocations. He speaks to us, and for us, in the midst of our daily tasks.
For the love of Jim I began my official journey into teaching as a 16-year-old and had my initial practicum experience in a school where many students exhibited
Obeying God’s directions changed my focus from fear to hope, inadequacy to confidence, from noticing deficit to celebrating strengths, and from distaste to delight. By the end of the practicum, I not only loved Jim with God’s love, I also felt genuine personal love towards him. We had become ‘best mates’ and I was sad to say goodbye. He even offered me a farewell gift of a small broken toy that he brought from home. Jim taught me so much.
Singing the stories Early on in my career, I had the privilege of working with a five-year-old child who experienced a number of learning challenges, along with serious physical disabilities. She faced these difficulties with good humour, determination and a maturity beyond her years. But she so wanted to learn how to read. I tried various strategies, but nothing seemed to harness her pronounced stutter, which affected her fluency and therefore limited comprehension.
Work challenging behaviour. I noticed a particular student whose behaviour was extreme, whose manner was rude and whose body odour was often unpleasant. I worried that I would be unable to connect with this boy (who we’ll call Jim). I secretly hoped he would not be in any of the groups which I was asked to work. To my consternation, I discovered that Jim was in every single one of my groups! I was unsure how to handle his behaviour, I felt completely out of my depth. How could I love this child who seemed so unlovable? I earnestly asked God for an answer. His reply was so simple, but, to a 16-year-old, also very profound. ‘I want you to love Jim with my love. See him with my eyes. Listen to him with my ears. Respond to him with my heart. Offer him acceptance, joy and hope.’
Finally, in desperation, I begged God for a strategy to aid this precious child. What was his advice? ‘Sing the stories, sing each page. Make up tunes but sing the words contained in the book.’ So sing we did. The melody-making seemed like a game to her. Our focus was so strongly on the song, that the words began to flow smoothly and understanding grew. A smile replaced the frustration. Our reading times became joy-filled excursions into the world of books. I gave thanks to God and determined that in future, prayer would be my first thought, not my last resort.
Holding my tongue It is easy for a teacher to be overly talkative. I often need God to quieten my tongue and to moderate my interactions. One such occasion occurred with I was responsible for a group of five-year-olds. One day I noticed a child sorting through some treasures in the corner of the classroom. She seemed particularly interested
GOD IS PRESENT WITH US IN OUR VOCATIONS. HE SPEAKS TO US, AND FOR US, IN THE MIDST OF OUR DAILY TASKS. in a pile of ribbons and lace. I watched as she laid them in line, apparently seeking to colour coordinate as she went. Then she surreptitiously placed these under her jersey and exited the room, into the foyer when the school bags were kept. I planned to challenge her about her actions when she returned to the classroom—to point out to her that taking these items without asking was in fact stealing, and tell her that I was disappointed she couldn’t be trusted. But I felt a need to pause—to withhold my comment—and so I kept quiet. Ten minutes later, I observed the same child gingerly return the ribbon and lace back the materials table. She had obviously been wrestling with her actions and, of her own accord, had reached an admirable conclusion, without my need to challenge her. This time I did call her to me. I commended her decision-making, and her willingness to listen to her conscience. My initial silence meant that instead of just pointing out her wrong-doing, I was able to celebrate her right actions, and I hadn’t usurped the role of the Holy Spirit. These vignettes represent just a handful of times when God has, over many years, intervened in my teaching life. I believe God wants to intervene, support and enrich every person’s work. Whatever we do, when we do it ‘as to the Lord’, he will guide, instruct and equip us, to his glory. Abridged excerpts from Memoirs of a Follower: Developing the Art of Listening to God at Work by Marion Sanders. To purchase, email memoirsbymarion@gmail.com 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 21
OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Andy (Territorial Commander) and Yvonne Westrupp (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 21 September: DELVE Conference, Upper Hutt 22 Sept: Nelson Corps for Warranting of Envoy Ros Vercoe 28 Sept: Flaxmere Corps for Warranting of Envoy Anihera Carroll 29 Sept: Visit to Cambridge Corps 1–2 Oct: Just Action Conference, Wellington 3–6 Oct: Encounter Congress, Wellington Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Territorial Secretary for Programme & Communications) 21 September: DELVE Conference, Upper Hutt 25 Sept: 15 Year Officer Review—dinner and Leader2Leader Forum, Booth College of Mission, Upper Hutt 1–2 Oct: Just Action Conference, Wellington 3–6 Oct: Encounter Congress, Wellington Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 21 September: DELVE Conference, Upper Hutt 25 September: 15 Year Officer Review—dinner and Leader2Leader Forum, Booth College of Mission, Upper Hutt 1–2 Oct: Just Action Conference, Wellington 3–6 Oct: Encounter Congress, Wellington
What A Ride! by Major Judith Bennett
AVAILABLE NOW! $29.95 To purchase, email: mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz
PRAY Winton Corps, Woodville Corps, the Youth Mission Department, ASARS (Addictions, Supportive
Accommodation and Reintegration Services), and Albany Bay Corps; The Salvation Army in Mozambique.
Want to Know More? 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:
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Quiz Answers: 1 Fiji (29–19), 2 Jair Bolsonaro, 3 France, USA, Italy, Japan, Canada, UK, Germany, 4 French fries, cheese curd and gravy, 5 Nimrod (Genesis 10:8–9).
22 WarCry 21 SEPTEMBER 2019
‘And God said, “Let the waters teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth”,’ Genesis 1:20
Draw your ultimate dream home—Does it have a movie theatre, pool, slide, indoor playground? Let your imagination go wild!
How well do you know the story of creation? Do you remember how on the fifth day, God made all the different birds in the sky and fish in the sea? Then on the sixth day, he made all the creatures on earth—including us! God entrusted humans with a big responsibility: to take care of the earth. What’s more, he put us in charge of all the other animals which share our planet. Now, imagine if you were sitting in your room, trying to relax, when suddenly an animal drops a soft drink can onto your floor. Then another, and another, until soon your room is filled with rubbish. Or worse, a giant piece of plastic, which gets all tangled up around you. Just like we would not enjoy it if animals littered or intruded in our living spaces, we must make sure we keep their homes clean and safe. God calls us to protect the many different habitats (homes) he designed and keep his creation beautiful. So next time you see some rubbish on the ground, even if it isn’t yours, pick it up and put it in the bin. You’ll stop it from ending up in an outdoor space or waterway where it can do damage to local wildlife. DID YOU KNOW …
What’s one thing I could do this week to keep God’s creation beautiful? 21 SEPTEMBER 2019 WarCry 23