FAITH IN ACTION 23 MARCH 2019 | Issue 6713 | $1.50
Whatever It Takes: Tracey’s Story from Addiction to Advocate How to Fall in Love Again With Your Partner New Housing Development a ‘Home Away From Home’
Have We Got It Wrong? The General Speaks Out About Gender Equality
Buy Clothes
For a Year
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06
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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, Hugh Collins, Major Shar Davis, Robin Raymond | PROOF READING Major Jill Gainsford, Vivienne Hill OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box
6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Fax (04) 382 0716, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department, Phone (04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT www.makeready.nz | PAPER Sumo Offset
is an environmentally responsible paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) FSC® certified Mixed Source pulp from responsible sources and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System. Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.
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An Addicted World I was recently shocked to hear addictions expert Dr Gabor Mate claim that we live in an ‘addicted world’. In fact, he said, ‘We’re so addicted, that we’re destroying the planet because of it’. The comment kept playing on my mind. We know that our lifestyle is endangering our planet, but we just can’t seem to stop consuming. That’s why, when someone actually says ‘no’ to a lifestyle of consumerism, it’s an important prophetic act. In this edition, we hear from two women who chose to say ‘no’ to buying clothes for a year. In our culture, this is not a frivolous decision. I once decided to stop buying clothes for six months (I couldn’t manage a year!) and was surprised at how much anxiety it brought up—I realised my identity was wrapped up in clothes, and it challenged me about the importance of appearances in our culture. In a similar way, I admire the officer lifestyle, which says a prophetic ‘no’ to the ‘normal’ Western values of accumulating a house, car and general wealth—in favour of storing up the treasures of the gospel. One way the Army does this is helping people through very real, literal addictions. I was awestruck by Tracey Benson’s story (p. 6), who attended The Salvation Army’s Hauora programme. One of the programme’s leaders, Lieutenant-Colonel Ian Hutson, was able to catch up with her to capture her story. Transformed lives, like Tracey’s, is the kind of ‘wealth’ that is truly counter-cultural, and has the ability to save both our souls and our world. Ingrid Barratt Editor
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 135 years | Issue 6713 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
2 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
For even if the whole world believed in resurrection, little would change until we began to practice it. We can believe in CPR, but people will remain dead until someone breathes new life into them. Shane Claiborne
Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matiu 6:21 Ko te wāhi hoki i ō koutou taonga, ko reira anō ō koutou ngākau.
T
he zombie apocalypse has arrived in New Zealand! Filming has begun for a bizarre new reality show called Zombody Save Us, on location at Spookers—Auckland’s ‘scream park’ attraction. With $10,000 prize money up for grabs, zombieobsessed applicants have responded enthusiastically to the tag line: ‘Do you have what it takes to survive the scariest, most terrifying ordeal ever created in New Zealand?’ Applicants for the show—dubbed ‘Spookers meets Survivor’—have been asked provocative questions like, ‘What household appliance would you use to kill a zombie, and why?’ So what’s our fascination with zombies really all about? Is it just a pop-culture fad? Theologians believe it goes deeper than that, with the emergence of ‘zombie theology’ (yes, it’s a real thing!), which argues that most of us recognise we all have a bit of zombie in us. Zombies, of course, disregard the wellbeing of others to get what they want. They are mindlessly absorbed with satiating their hunger (in a zombie’s case, brains or flesh!). Our fascination with zombies could be seen as an alarming glimpse into who we could become without Christ. The Zombie Gospel, by former Salvation Army officer Danielle Strickland, is a compelling analysis of the popular zombie TV show The Walking Dead. Strickland delves into the show’s themes of human suffering and the importance of rebirth and hope, claiming that ‘God is shouting for a new humanity through a medium that may offend us in order to awaken us’. The rapid rise of dystopian films, featuring humans infected by zombies in a post-apocalytpic ‘earth as we know it’, raises questions about what
it means to be truly human. It is usually some devasting ecological collapse or cataclysmic medical event that has plunged humanity into this pursuit of basic human needs. In other words, it’s usually our own pride and arrogance as a species that sparks our demise into zombie domination. It may sound outlandish, but is it really so far from our very real culture of greed that is currently hurtling our planet towards annhiliation? But wait, there’s even more to zombie theology. Back in the 1990s, when I was soundly saved at the age of 20, Audio Adrenaline took the Christian music scene by storm with their 1997 hit ‘Some Kind of Zombie’: ‘I walked away from the grave (like some kind of zombie) / I hear you speak and I obey (like some kind of zombie) / I will never be afraid (like some kind of zombie) ... ’ you get the idea. Zombie-like obedience to Christ is a metaphor I now consider somewhat dangerous, since part of a rich faith journey requires questioning and independent thought. But I can’t fully dismiss it either, because I still have a desire to be totally devoted to Christ. Zombody Save Us could well be more than just a bizarre alternative to reno and cooking shows. After all, the juxtaposition between the undead and the living dead (which one are we as Christians again?) leaves more than enough food (and brains) for thought. So let’s not dismiss the opportunities for us to have intelligent and meaningful faith conversations when Zombody Save Us hits our screens later this year. BY JULES BADGER
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Action & Adventure, Science Fiction Captain Marvel (M, violence) Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck
Marvel’s Superhero films have become a phenomenon through a set (almost tired) style. And following the success of rival DC’s Wonder Woman, its first female-led superhero film was under immense pressure to deliver. Fortunately, after some heavy recent films, Marvel have produced a barnstorming film doing what it does best. It has embraced the silliness of the origin story of a part alien, part explosion, part fighter pilot hero—and had a lot of fun. There are nods to the wider franchise for fans, powerful celebration moments for its female audience and star turns everywhere, especially Brie Larson. But it speaks to the film—and Marvel’s success—that the star of the show is the cat, Goose. (Reviewed by Robin Raymond)
SALLIE OFTHE WEEK
Gwen Smith (Aranui Corps) Originally from Dunedin, Gwen has been a Salvation Army soldier since the 80s. She first made her way to Aranui in 2007, and is described by those in her community as a ‘true gem’— someone who epitomises Christ’s love through simple, yet important, acts of kindness. Gwen can be found tirelessly volunteering in the Aranui foodbank and Family Store, the latter in which she leads a team of volunteers. You’ll also regularly see her praying with people in need or cleaning and helping in the kitchen. This prayer warrior endlessly expresses God’s love and will warmly welcome and serve you on a Sunday.
WARCRYINHISTORY
Major Philip Sidney, V.C. (Victoria Cross) decorates the dog Rob with the Dickin Medal at the Prisoners-of-War Exhibition in London, in April 1945. This award is often recognised as the animals’ Victoria Cross. Rob took part in more than 20 parachute landings, including campaigns in Italy and Africa. Source: Booth College of Mission Heritage and Archives Centre
Over 38,000 Cans Collected in Resene Hunger for Colour
A whopping 38,458 cans have been collected for the 2019 Resene Hunger for Colour campaign. Now in its fifth year, Hunger for Colour runs throughout February and encourages Kiwi to swap cans of food for paint testpots at Resene stores throughout the country.
This year’s successful drive means Salvation Army foodbanks from Northland to Invercargill have been restocked and filled. The campaign is intentionally run in the early months of the year, when many families struggle during the post-Christmas period and kids go back to school. Since its inception in 2015, Resene has collected almost 190,000 cans of food to support struggling New Zealanders. Captain Robert Adams from Johnsonville Corps with Linda Whittaker from Resene display some of the cans collected during Hunger For Colour. 4 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
The Palmerston North Resene store took the top spot in 2019, with 2000 cans collected in-store.
QUIKQUIZ
Photography: Tamara West
Weird of the Week: There is a psychological disorder known as ‘Boanthropy’. This is where people believe they are a cow (or ox) and attempt to live their life accordingly.
1 Who is credited with saying: ‘It’s not easy being green’?
Miso Fresh Bowl
2 Which film won the 2019 Oscar for Best Picture?
Ingredients 1 cup mung bean sprouts
2 sachets miso paste
3 How many toes does a sloth have?
½ cup cabbage, white, finely shredded
1½ cups water, boiling
4 What is the main ingredient in the Polynesian dish known as ‘Ota ika’?
5 Who saw a heavenly ladder with the Lord standing TOPFIVE above it? War Cry’s five ridiculously underrated New Zealand natural hotspots.
Answers on page 22 5 Glendhu Bay, Lake Wanaka: Only a 13 minute drive from Wanaka town, this lakeside paradise is perfect for an icy swim. 4 Lake Tarawera, Rotorua region: Tucked away in native bush, this gorgeous lake has a fascinating history.
½ cup red cabbage, finely shredded 2 mushrooms, thinly sliced 1 small tomato, sliced into small sections ½ cup fresh coriander, chopped
1 sprig mint leaves, chopped 1 spring onion, finely sliced ¼ red chilli, finely sliced, to taste ½ lime, juice, to taste 1 tsp fish sauce, to taste ¼ tsp sesame oil
Place the sprouts, cabbage, mushroom and tomato in separate mounds around the outside of a bowl, with the coriander in the middle. Add the miso soup paste to the boiling water in a small pot and stir to dissolve, then pour over the veges in the bowl. Top with the mint, spring onion and chilli. Just as you start to eat, sprinkle the lime juice, fish sauce and sesame oil (use more or less to taste) over the top of the soup.
Source: Aaron Brunet/bite.co.nz 3 The Catlins, Otago/Southland: This region at the bottom east corner of the South Island has a spectacularly rugged coastline and plethora of wildlife. 2 Matapouri Bay, Northland: Just 30 minutes north of Whangārei, this horseshoe bay is straight from the summers of our dreams.
Salvation Army corporate relations manager Camille Astbury says parents and their children have had a lot of fun choosing from hundreds of different testpot colours. ‘It’s a really engaging way for people to make a difference to local foodbanks and get some awesome craft supplies as well,’ Camille says. ‘In some places the community is bonkers for it, they really go above and beyond.’ It’s been great for foodbanks to know they’ll receive an influx of cans in March, she says.
1 Te Waikoropupū Springs, Nelson/ Tasman: New Zealand’s largest fresh water spring has crystal blue waters so pristine you’ll think you’ve fallen into a postcard.
Lower Hutt Resene shop manager Stephen Russell says he was thrilled with the 825 cans his shop received. ‘The community really gets behind it and they know it’s for a good cause. All the cans go to needy families that really appreciate it.
The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.
‘A lot of families come in and have their kids involved with the choosing of colours.’
Winston Churchill
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Photography: Captain Brenton Millar
What ever It Takes
Tracey Benson spent her life in and out of jail, but the prison she couldn’t escape was her addiction to methamphetamine—until she attended The Salvation Army’s Hauora Programme, a partnership with the Notorious Chapter of the Mongrel Mob. Now she is helping others do ‘whatever it takes’ to get free. BY LIEUTENANT-COLONEL IAN HUTSON
T
alking with Tracey Benson and hearing her speak about life is inspirational. When I called her to talk through her life journey, I was struck by the hope and gritty determination that emanates from her. There is a palpable desire to continue growing as a person, and an immense gratitude for how things have turned out. But things were not always so positive, and Tracey has had to battle to get out of some pretty dark places. Looking back, Tracey Benson says she couldn’t identify specifically what it was that made her such a rebellious child. But at 12 years old she was made a ‘ward of the state’, says Tracey. ‘It might have been the fact that my mother and father had recently separated, but I was out of control—sniffing glue, paint and petrol, running away, and I wouldn’t listen to anything my mother said. I just wanted to do what I wanted to do.’ Between the ages of 12 and 15, Tracey was placed in foster care and put into girls’ homes in Wellington and Weymouth. ‘I would always be running away and committing minor acts of crime such as theft,’ recalls Tracey. She finally left the Weymouth home and foster care, but says, ‘I only lasted months before I got convicted for car theft and other offences, and served my first prison sentence.’
‘In and out, in and out ... ’ For Tracey, this was the beginning of a journey that involved more time in prison than out, along with increasing drug use. ‘I was committing petty crime on a frequent basis,’ she says. She had two relationships during this time, both with gang members. ‘I was carrying my first child while in prison at the age of 18, and my second child was born while I was in prison on another occasion, a little later,’ she recalls. Tracey had three children in three years—two boys and a girl—and during this time began to really try to be a good parent. ‘But I had no idea how to do it,’ she reflects. Her faltering steps to make a go of parenting were significantly undermined when her then-partner was released from prison. ‘I hadn’t really known him as we began to live life together, and we drifted into a life of violence, drug use and drug dealing. We ran a tinny shop for 12 years.’ While life was a struggle, there were periods of relative stability—like when Tracey got a job at Heinz–Watties in Hawke’s Bay. ‘It gave me my first real job 23 MARCH 2019 WarCry 7
and some structure and routine to my life.’ Her husband also got a job there, and together they bought a house. ‘Life was relatively good during this period, even though there continued to be occasional violence and dabbling with drugs,’ says Tracey. ‘It probably sounds odd to most people, but we even had gang parties at our place that were relatively enjoyable and free of violence.’
Chasing the drug Then Tracey’s husband began to use methamphetamine. This was when Tracey began to experience serious violence again. ‘I didn’t want any part of it, so I decided to leave him,’ Tracey says. But leaving turned out to be a process fraught with great distress and danger. ‘I experienced real violence, including having my car rammed by my husband, with me and my children in it. I never knew when he might get me. I was frightened and stressed all the time—paranoid even,’ recalls Tracey. ‘My husband even forced me to sell the house.’ It was in the immediate aftermath of this separation that Tracey began to use methamphetamine. She says, ‘I was so down-trodden and worried and there seemed to be no escape. My past experiences with the justice system and living in the culture that I was, calling the police wasn’t even an option.’ So, when a friend suggested trying methamphetamine, after an initial resistance she gave it a try. ‘When I tried it, I found it immediately took my problems away, I felt bulletproof.’ From this first moment, and for the next 17 months, Tracey used mehamphetamine every day. ‘It completely took over my life,’ she says. ‘I became a dealer as well as a user and my life revolved around the drug. My children and other responsibilites were ignored. I left the children with whoever would take them—chasing the drug. Nothing else mattered.’
The way out This behaviour led her back to prison. It had become part of life for Tracey. All her wider circle of whānau and friends viewed prison as a normal part of life, an ‘occupational hazard’. ‘I had become institutionalised and the structure of prison was where I felt, to some degree, the most comfortable,’ she reflects. While in prison this time, watching television, Tracey heard about the Hauora Programme—the addiction programme run in a partnership between The Salvation Army and the Notorious Chapter of the Mongrel Mob. Initially, she didn’t take too much notice of it—she was off drugs while in prison, so didn’t see it as relevant to her. 8 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
‘I KNEW HARDLY ANYONE, BUT THE MONGREL MOB WHĀNAU AND THE SALVATION ARMY PEOPLE ALL HUGGED US AND GAVE US SUCH A WARM WELCOME.’ But after a disturbing prison visit from two of her children, it began to play on her mind. ‘When [my kids] visited, I could tell they were into methamphetamine. I was worried about us as a whānau. I wanted us all to get treatment individually and as a whānau. ‘The boys were adamantly opposed to getting treatment. It was only because this programme was being run in connection with the Mongel Mob—their bros—that they became willing to give it a try.’ After she was released from prison, Tracey tracked down the Notorious Chapter of the Mob, and eventually managed to get herself and her whānau into the programme. The determination paid off: ‘When we arrived at the programme in Kākahi, I felt completely surrounded by love and fully accepted,’ recalls Tracey. ‘I knew hardly anyone, but the Mongrel Mob whānau and The Salvation Army people all hugged us and gave us such a warm welcome. Even though I was on parole, there was no judgement.’ Treatment in this safe and secure setting made it possible for Tracey and her whānau to focus on getting well without distractions. However, it was no easy ride. Tracy found that because of her lifestyle, ‘my children did not respect me. I had neglected them and they were angry. To add to that, given my many absences, we really didn’t know each other that well. ‘There were frequent arguments between us. We were given support and guidance throughout, from both The Salvation Army staff and the gang whānau, who were all so understanding.’ The programme—with its recognised alcohol and drug treatment, Māori tikanga, and inclusion of whānau—‘was just what I needed, at the time I needed it,’ she says. After the programme was completed, Tracey was keen to get back to work and home in Hawke’s Bay. However, her children felt they needed to do a follow-up reintegration programme. ‘They made it clear to me that I needed to go with
them and reminded me that I had run off and left them before,’ admits Tracey. So, together, they completed a reintegration programme before returning home.
Whatever it takes So much has happened since the programme in 2014. Tracey credits Hauora with transforming her life and that of her whānau. ‘We wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for that programme,’ she says. Over the past four years there have been many ups and downs for Tracey and her whānau, but they have stuck at it. ‘We still reflect on what was said and done at the Hauora programme, and what we learnt back then. Also, we still connect with the Mongrel Mob whānau and The Salvation Army people who were part of the programme, when we need support or encouragement. In a sense, the programme continues for us.’ Tracey felt a strong desire to educate herself about addictions and mental health. In the years since leaving the programme, she has thrown herself into relevant educational courses. This is something she found hard at first, having left school at the age of 12. But she has completed the six-month ‘Introduction to Social Services’, a ‘Mental Health and Addiction Certificate’ and a ‘Diploma in Addictions’—all at the Eastern Institute of Technology. She is currently in the process of getting an ‘Addictions Counselling Diploma’ at the University of Otago. Tracey now works as a team leader at the ‘Whatever It Takes’ Trust in Hawke’s Bay, a community organisation with a focus on mental health and addiction support. She continues to live life with the same Mongrel Mob whānau, in the same community she was living in before. Many people would think of this as foolishness—in fact, some people tell her so. But Tracey’s answer is full of passion: ‘I will always love my “red whānau” [red is the Mongrel Mob colour]. Over the years, when I was in and out of prison, they looked out for me, doing things for me—they were all I had.’ To her, the late Roy Dunn—leader of the Notorious Chapter— was an inspiration, guiding people out of the pain of addiction and loss. ‘I want me and my whānau to be role models for our Mongrel Mob whānau, to help people see that there is hope for a better life,’ she says. Initially, there was fear and suspicion among some of the whānau when she returned clean and sober. ‘Someone said, “I suppose you think you’re better than us now”,’ Tracey recalls, ‘But now the suspicion has almost gone.’
Whether it’s organising an informal picnic at the gang pad for all the whānau, just being there for people to listen and support them, or her work at the local trust, Tracey is making a real difference in her community. From a chaotic young girl, out of control and at odds with the world, Tracey is now growing personally—along with her whānau—and ‘bringing life’ to her beloved ‘red’ whānau and the wider community. Tracey’s story of hope and transformation is a powerful example of the work of the ‘Army that brings life’, working with individuals and within marginalised communities.
How Hauora Gave Gangs a Second Chance The Hauora Programme was a partnership between The Salvation Army and the Notorious Chapter of the Mongrel Mob, to combat the scourge of ‘P’, or methamphetamine, in the gang community. It was the late Roy Dunn, a national Mongrel Mob leader, who approached the Army for help with meth addiction—after being turned away by several other agencies. ‘The drug world loomed large on us when “P” entered the market in the way it did in New Zealand. Our whānau were being devastated. It was clear we had a huge problem,’ Roy wrote in War Cry, in 2013. Hauora is a uniquely Māori philosophy of wellbeing, and the programme included the whole whānau. ‘Doing it as a family, you see your kids there participating with you, and given tools and stuff as a whānau, just made us appreciate one another’, said Donna, who went through the programme. In 2017, the government cut funding for Hauora, stating that it only targeted a small group of people, and the programme was forced to close. However, Hauora was hailed as a significant success during its eight years. An independent review— conducted by the Ministry of Health—found that as a result of participation in the Hauora Programme, methamphetamine and other drug and alcohol use had dropped, serious offending had decreased, and so had notifications to Oranga Tamariki (then CYF).
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How to Fall Back in Love With Your Spouse ‘I love you, but I’m not in love with you’, is the oneliner that has preceded countless break-ups. But what does it actually mean? When people say they’ve fallen out of love with their spouse or partner, it usually means that the delicious glow of romance has faded into the dull fog of daily life. The person who once gave you heart palpitations, can now make your heart race for all the wrong reasons! ‘The number one reason why people fall out of love is because they’re human’, sums up renowned marriage counsellor Sheryl Paul. The god or goddess you fell in love with, has turned out to be just an ordinary person with annoying habits and flaws. But experts agree that every marriage is cyclical, which in many ways requires us to fall in and out of love along the way. ‘There are many marriages within a marriage’, says psychologist Dr Cathy McCoy. ‘Times when you reinvent yourselves as individuals and as a couple, times when growth can mean loss—or delightful rediscovery of each other’. It’s not a straight-forward journey. A change in the season of your relationship can feel like a crisis. But if you stick it out and work on growing together (rather than apart) you will discover a deeper love— based on acceptance of your true selves, rather than the fantasy version of yourselves. ‘Here’s the great and empowering secret that our cultural mythology keeps hidden: The best way to feel love is to give it. I’m not talking about a codependent love where your good feelings are dependent on making someone else happy.
‘WHEN YOU CAN REVERSE THE CONDITIONED MINDSET THAT LOVE IS SOMETHING YOU GET, TO THE IDEA THAT LOVE IS SOMETHING YOU GIVE, MIRACLES HAPPEN.’
‘I’m talking about a real and true love that arises from a genuine desire to bring joy to your partner. When you can reverse the conditioned mindset that love is something you get, to the idea that love is something you give, miracles happen’. Here are some practical ways you can encourage that loving feeling: Look at yourself first: What walls are you putting up to protect yourself from hurt, and therefore barricading yourself against, in your relationship? Now look at your partner: Stop and really look at your spouse. What do you see in their face? ‘Instead of nursing bitter regret at the sometimes bumpy road you’ve travelled together, delight in your spouse as he was and as she is: a mixture of sweet youth and wiser maturity’, says McCoy.
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Do something different today: Especially if you’re living parallel lives, break out of your routine. Give an unexpected hug. Do something together that you’ve been meaning to do—like a hike or trying out a new café. Ask a question: Show interest in your spouse by asking a question, and listening to their response. Give a compliment: Be specific in what you appreciate about your spouse.
Immature love says, ‘I love you because I need you’. Mature love says, ‘I need you because I love you’. Erich Fromm
TESTIFY! Three years ago, Andrew Mitchell joined the team at Royal Oak Community Ministries where he helps vulnerable people with their debt and money. He talks to us about what’s driven him to work alongside those less privileged than himself. For many years, I worked as a business analyst at an insurance company. However—having been diagnosed with bipolar disorder when I was younger— and after going through a tough patch with my mental health, I came to the realisation it was going to be best if I pursued an alternative calling. It was around this time I heard about the need for budget advisors at The Salvation Army in Royal Oak. Something within me felt sure this was the kind of work that I wanted to give my time to. I enjoy spending time with people one-on-one and I am also drawn to the problem-solving aspects of the job. My wife, Sarah, is a doctor and we realised it wasn’t necessary for me to contribute as much financially as had previously been the case. Three years later, I am loving the role and the difference I can make in the lives of many of those who come to see me for help with their finances. It’s exciting to be able to ensure that people are protected from some of the more predatory lending practices out there. It’s also been humbling to gain some insight into how difficult life often is for people living in severe hardship. It had never really occurred to me that there are hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders who don’t have the ability to turn to professional advice if they get into a spot of bother. Overall, the experience has been hugely educational and has enabled me to see what life is like for people on low incomes, many who have to deal with large amounts of
IT’S BEEN HUMBLING TO GAIN SOME INSIGHT INTO HOW DIFFICULT LIFE OFTEN IS FOR PEOPLE LIVING IN SEVERE HARDSHIP. debt. Despite legislation introduced three years ago, there’s still a lot of work to be done in the area of responsible lending.
between two very different worlds, which can at times be challenging for my own sense of identity.
While a career change has been a big transition (one I’m still finding my way with), I feel so privileged to have been welcomed into The Salvation Army in my time of trouble. For many of my clients, it’s a relief for them to talk to someone who isn’t going to judge, who will listen attentively and do whatever possible to help their situation.
I feel very much at home in The Salvation Army and especially enjoy the morning prayer—a comforting ritual at Royal Oak Community Ministries. Mornings can be difficult for me, so I rely on our morning meeting to launch me into the day.
I have become acutely aware that Auckland is becoming increasingly segregated. Many middle-class New Zealanders don’t have much appreciation for what’s going on outside their own bubble. I’m quite conscious of the fact that on a daily basis I’m moving
I don’t think enough New Zealanders understand just how crucial our Christian organisations are for giving hope and succour to so many of our fellow citizens. I certainly didn’t, until The Salvation Army opened its doors to me.
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Buy Clothes
For a Year
Two women made the radical decision to stop buying clothes for a year, but it changed much more than their wardrobes …
‘I FELT PHYSICALLY SICK’ A flush of shame crept up my neck to my cheeks as I stared at the piles of musty clothes littered around the room: stained maternity clothes, worn-out jeans in four different sizes, tops I was keeping just in case I lost weight, or gained weight, or the fashion changed. I saw the pair of pants I never liked but paid too much money for and the stack of dresses with their tags still attached. Piles of clothes I didn’t wear and didn’t need, but didn’t want to leave behind. Maybe you’ve seen the popular Netflix series Tidying Up With Marie Kondo? The ‘KonMari’ method requires participants to stack every item of clothing they own in one big pile, then pick up each garment and ask: ‘Does it spark joy?’. At the beginning of 2018, I had my own ‘tidying up’ moment, prompted by an international move back to New Zealand. But there was no effervescent, yet firm, Japanese organising expert guiding me through the process, and certainly no joy. I felt physically sick when I considered the sheer volume of tangible greed hanging in my wardrobe and stuffed in my drawers. In a moment of radical clarity, I vowed not to buy clothes for the next year. So 2018 became my year without clothes. I sorted my collection, stood in front of the remaining items and hardened my resolve. In the beginning it was easy. I avoided shops and turned off all my favourite apps. I hit unsubscribe to email newsletters and stopped following brands on Facebook. It wasn’t so easy to unsubscribe from my emotions. Painfully, they began to show me why I needed to keep buying clothes. I was forced to sit with my discomfort and 12 firezone.co.nz 23 MARCH 2019
examine my own heart. I was naïvely surprised to find ugliness: Apathy. Pride. Greed. Privilege. Selfishness. Vanity. Envy. Without the distraction and noise of buying I was able to stare my insecurities in the face. I realised I was using clothes to meet needs of significance and worth. Clothes were the band-aid on my gaping wound, the inadequate fix for a spiritual problem. It became a year of confession and repentance as I shared my story with others. I was able to have honest conversations about fast fashion and modern slavery; about facing the sin of greed openly; about identity in Christ. Did I go back to buying clothes? Yep. Socks and underwear were first on my list! Beautiful fashion is like any good gift that can be distorted into an ugly idol. There are ways to love and serve Jesus with our clothing choices. For those who are able, consider the ethical tensions in the fashion industry as an important responsibility. I’ve also learnt that being mindful of my motivation is an essential
‘I’D USED SHOPPING FOR CLOTHES AS A WAY TO MANAGE MY EMOTIONS’
discipline in a modern, consumerist generation. I still need regular reminders that the only true ‘spark of joy’ is never going to be found in a pile of clothing, but in looking to Jesus and the worth and significance he brings. BY SOPHIA SINCLAIR
Long before Marie Kondo became the name synonymous with decluttering and auditing wardrobes and walk-ins, Dr Phil was the self-help guru on prime time afternoon viewing. A memorable episode was centred around a woman who was labelled a ‘hoarder’ by her nearest and dearest. One of Dr Phil’s steps towards a better life was for her to take every item of clothing she owned and put it all in the one place, so she could get a clear picture of what she really had. Sound familiar? I was intrigued by this idea, and within 30 minutes there was a mountain in my lounge—not a bump or a small hill, but a mountain! I was slightly horrified and glad that only my cat was there to witness it—her look of judgement was enough! I realised at that moment that I had more than enough clothing. There was nothing I was lacking—except perhaps some self-control. So I took some time to sort through what I needed, what I wanted, and what was simply excess. In an effort to prove to myself that I could avoid ending up on The Dr Phil Show, or worse yet, Hoarders, I decided that I would not buy any new clothes for a whole year. What began as a bit of a novelty became a challenge and then a commitment that was not always easy to keep—the word ‘sale’ became a dirty word to me! I began thinking about excess and how I often had far too much stuff in my life. There were a few times during the year when the temptation was really strong to forget all about it and shop up large—but then I would remember the mountain. I realised how I’d used shopping for clothes as a way to manage my emotions. I used to get this rush from buying a new outfit that I didn’t need (and probably couldn’t really afford), and I’d get home, the rush would wear off and in its place was guilt over my impulse purchase. By breaking that habit of spontaneously shopping for clothes, I came to really appreciate the clothes I did have, and the money that I was saving by not spending so much. Clothes became less about escaping or covering up (see what I did there) and more about the enjoyment of a favourite outfit. The temptation was definitely there to replace clothes shopping with some other form of shopping (like DVDs or books), but I had unintentionally embraced the idea of living without excess, so that seemed pointless. After the 12 months ended, I shopped far less than previously, and when I did, it was often at a Family Store or Op Shop. I bought more because of need and less because of want. When I look at my wardrobe now, I wonder if I need to repeat the process with shoes… although they do spark a lot of joy for me! BY SHAR DAVIS 23 MARCH 2019 WarCry 13
Putting the Spirit in Song Singing is something most people do (regardless of talent)—often in the car, or the shower and occasionally when you’re wearing headphones and you forget that everyone nearby can hear you, even if you can’t hear yourself! BY SHAR DAVIS
Growing up many of us spent time in the school choir. But what about as adults? While songster brigades were once a part of almost every corps (church), they’re far less common these days, so where does someone go for that choir experience? SpiritSong is the national choir of The Salvation Army in New Zealand, and while I’ve seen them perform many times on stage, I wanted to get a closer look at this group—and who knows, maybe I could join them. I began by crashing their rehearsal camp at Silverstream Retreat. In May each year, the group get together at the start of their ‘year’. When I walked into the room, they were all sitting in a semi-circle singing through one of their songs, under the direction of Maree Downey, the musical director. Some of the faces I recognised as seasoned members of the group, and, contrary to what some people assume, this isn’t a choir limited to young people. Major Anthony Stone always wanted to join the group, and his retirement from officership opened the door for him to tick it off his bucket list. ‘I like making music, this gives me an outlet for that and I enjoy the company of the group.’ Maree has a keen ear and provided a firm but fair critique before they continued working at getting the song just right. While they do take it very seriously, there is still a lot of laughter in the group. 14 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
I joined the group for lunch and asked Lieutenant-Colonel Lynette Hutson, Executive Officer for SpiritSong, about the group’s purpose. ‘SpiritSong has a dual purpose. Firstly, it’s about the mission that we do out in the community and in corps—so not just limited to being a corps focus, but about reaching into the community of the places we go,’ said Lynette. ‘Secondly, it’s about the spiritual development of the people in the group, so that they are ready to be part of stepping up into ministry. We also support each other, using our private Facebook group for prayer requests.’ Lynette jokes that she keeps losing her members to officer training college. ‘It’s not the only end result, but it’s a great one, and watching people step up in their corps settings,’ she said. The team were buzzing about their upcoming visits—firstly to Tīmaru, before heading to Samoa for the official opening of The Salvation Army’s work there. Lieutenant Emma Howan, Corps Officer in Tīmaru, said the corps wanted to invite a group who would help encourage and inspire people in the corps in the sharing of their talents. ‘We were expecting a bunch of passionate people who would share not only their talents but their journeys with us.’ The corps was able to connect with 90 people at both the Saturday night concert and on Sunday morning. ‘There was
‘THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT MUSIC AND WORSHIP THAT DRAWS US DEEPER INTO GOD’S LOVE AND OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM.’ only a little bit of a crossover, so we reckon we connected with around 150 different people at these alone,’ said Emma. The team also ran a workshop on Saturday afternoon with the corps musicians and any singers who wanted to attend. ‘It was also great to be able to take the group to a local rest home and share with its residents. We’re still getting comments from those who attend the church services we take there,’ said Emma. I was excited to see the group perform in Samoa a couple of months later—the first overseas trip for the group for a number of years. Before the group was SpiritSong they were the National Songsters. Under that name, they toured around New Zealand and as far away as Atlanta for the International Congress in 2000. While a trip to Samoa might sound relaxing, this visit was definitely a working one for the team, with a day of rehearsals taking place before the Friday night prayer service. The Saturday morning outreach was cancelled due to the torrential rain, but this allowed the group a little extra time to rehearse in the open space of the Samoa Tourism Authority Fale. A few took the opportunity to visit the stunning Immaculate Conception Catholic Cathedral, boasting incredible acoustics and breathtaking views. They spontaneously sang a benediction there. (You can find a video of this performance on their Facebook page, www.facebook. com/SpiritSongNZ). The group has a number of songs in their repertoire, including some songs that have a soloist or duets. While there is a real entertainment factor to their performances, it’s obvious that they believe the words they sing, as their faces express the emotion of their words. I asked Lynette about the value of a trip like Samoa: ‘It’s the opportunity to minister in a different cultural setting, but [we needed to] make sure we were relevant to that cultural setting.’ Part way through the Sunday morning service there was a power cut across the city of Apia. All of SpiritSong’s performances up to that point involved either live music from their capable music team or backing tracks. The team took it all in their stride and performed Go In Peace unaccompanied, with just their voices and harmonies permeating the fale. This was the moment for me that their music ministry over the weekend felt most ‘at home’ in Samoa. As the service concluded, members of SpiritSong stood around the edges of the fale, surrounding those gathered and sang Go In Peace again as a benediction. It was a really special and sacred moment.
Nick Vemoa and Leighancher Oliver.
Soloist Raewyn Christiansen.
‘The group are still talking about that [power cut] because of what God did in those moments for us internally, as well as those in the congregation. It was like a big surprise,’ reflected Lynette. Kāpiti Corps is the final ministry weekend for the year before they head back into their next rehearsal camp. Corps Officer Sarah Green said that having guest musicians and a choir will be a special treat for the corps, who usually sing with just piano accompaniment each week. There will be a choir workshop that will be open to children and adults, followed by a concert. ‘There is something about music and worship that draws us deeper into God’s love and our relationship with him,’ said Sarah. SpiritSong is definitely about music and singing, but all they do is driven by a deep desire to connect people with God through this medium. In my quest to explore the world of SpiritSong, I recently asked Lynette about their membership and whether there were any openings—you know, “asking for a friend”. The great news is they are looking for new members so, if you’re interested, you can email Maree.Downey@ salvationarmy.org.nz. The bad news is I get stage fright when I have to sing by myself, so I will stick to reporting about SpiritSong, leaving plenty of room for others to join this group of passionate singers and musicians.
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‘Without God Nothing’ in Whanganui Majors Judith and David Bennett filled in as Corps Officers in Whanganui for three months at the beginning of this year. One thing about Whanganui made Judith sit up and take notice!
I was at the Funky Duck Café in Whanganui with a group of ladies from the Whanganui Corps enjoying coffee and conversation. I was a novice to the river city and my new friends were regaling me with information about the opportunities, advantages and beauty of this historic area. Brenda Kendrick asked if I knew the city’s motto? Having never previously been asked this question I was curious. ‘Without God nothing’, Brenda replied. ‘It’s what?’ I asked incredulously. The Family Store Manager repeated the motto in French: ‘Sans Dieu Rien’. I could scarcely believe what I was hearing. What an amazing motto for a city. I couldn’t wait to get home and confirm it in black and white. There it was on Google—the Whanganui Coat of Arms in full technicolour detail, announcing to the world ‘Sans Dieu Rien’. Other towns and cities herald ‘We Serve’, ‘Onward and Upward’, ‘Justice’, ‘Together We Achieve’, ‘Faith and Courage’ … all of them admirable. But none so challenging, purposeful and true as, ‘Without God Nothing’! Do the citizens of Whanganui realise the powerful motto their city has? Does the church (the whole Body of Christ) in Whanganui comprehend the dynamic rallying cry, ‘With God all things are possible’ (Luke 1:37)? New Zealand is becoming a highly secular nation where ‘me first’ is predominant. God is not recognised and the Christian faith is no longer a force to be reckoned with. Yet, here is a city that summarises its intention: ‘Without God Nothing’. Imagine if every follower of Jesus took this motto personally, and wholeheartedly lived out ‘Sans Dieu Rien’ wherever we are. We’d emphatically determine that, as Jesus assures us, ‘All things are possible with God’ (Mark 10:27). David and I appreciated immensely and absolutely loved the privilege of working alongside the wonderful, hard-working, inspiring and helpful people of The Salvation Army Whanganui Corps—a group of people wanting to live out and share the gospel. What a blessing they are. They know their city’s motto and are resolute in their purpose that ‘with God all things are possible’. Incidentally, if you’re looking for a maxim to keep you focused during 2019, I suggest ‘Sans Dieu Rien’. Imagine! BY MAJOR JUDITH BENNETT 16 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
New Housing Development a ‘Home Away From Home’ Early on February 18, Mana Konokava along with his twin brother, Tana, had the auspicious duty of turning the first sod of whenua, to mark the beginning of a significiant development behind Westgate Corps, in Auckland. The Year 13 students have been part of the Westgate whānau for about three years now. This is a significant project as the local corps and SASH (Salvation Army Social Housing) enter into a partnership that will not only extend the footprint of the corps into a fully-fledged community centre, but also provide social housing for the area on the same site. Integrated mission is the goal with corps whānau, divisional and SASH leaders, local kaumātua and northern Māori ministry representatives—all in attendance for the ceremony. Karakia and speeches placed the whenua into the guardianship of Te Ope Whakaora. Corps Officer Captain Daniel Buckingham affirmed the parternship with tangata whenua and the desire to see Te Tiriti o Waitangi honoured throughout the project’s development. Behind the site, Red Hills—a new council housing development—is also underway. ‘There’s going to be a huge influx of people living right on our doorstep, and we have a unique opportunity to position ourselves for their arrival,’ says Daniel. Corps leaders have researched local community spaces, discovering a demand for facilities for sports teams and performance groups. The design for the centre has taken this demand seriously: ‘If we build something that only suits our needs, it probably won’t resonate with the community. So we want to ensure we have outstanding spaces the community wants to use.’ Daniel explains that the goal is to live up to the ‘corps and community centre’ title given to so many Salvation Army buildings. ‘We want the corps to be just one of the entities using this community hub. We want our home to be their home, with people coming through the doors on their terms, knowing this is a space where everyone is included.’
Mana (holding the spade) and Tana (right) opened the ceremony at Westgate Corps.
Tonga’s Joy at Enrolments and Commissionings Nuku’alofa Corps in Tonga enrolled nine junior soldiers and commissioned four local officers in December last year. The regional leaders, Captains Sila and Malia Siufanga, conducted the ceremonies. Those being enrolled and commissioned took part in the various components of the meeting. Captain Sila’s powerful message was entitled ‘The Model Soldier’. Taken from 2 Timothy 1:1–7 and 2:1–8, it inspired and challenged soldiers (senior and junior alike) to be strong in God’s grace, to endure hardship— knowing we are not alone—and to always remember who our Commander is. Parents, guardians and prayer partners of the junior soldiers were also exhorted to be role models to the children and to constantly support them in prayer and encouragement. The four local officers commissioned were: Theresa Frances Talahiva Hola as Worship Team Leader, Meleseini Tu’iono Otainao as Junior Soldier Sergeant, Mele Lata Talakai as Corps Cadet Guardian and ’Unaloto Fotu as Home League Secretary. They had all been acting in these capacities for at least six months prior to being commissioned. Nuku’alofa Corps praises God for these ladies’ love for God
and willingness to commit to these specific areas of ministry. Furthermore, we are overjoyed for the nine new junior soldiers who have accepted Jesus and are so full of enthusiasm and potential. Glory to God!
Still Kissing Goodnight After 70 Years of Marriage Still utterly enamoured with each other after 70 years of marriage, retired officers Colonels Doreen and Ken Bridge celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary on 27 January this year. At 90 and 94, Doreen and Ken are the oldest residents at Summerset Retirement Village in Warkworth, and one of only two remaining married couples. It’s not surprising then that the platinum milestone was the first of its kind at Summerset. ‘The staff did us proud with a special morning tea, cake and gifts,’ Ken explained. The rest of the day was spent celebrating with family at their daughter’s home in Snell’s Beach. ‘It was a very festive day and we had a ball.’ When asked what has kept them together all these years, without hesitation Ken replied, ‘Our faith in God and in each other has kept us going strong’. I glanced at Doreen for confirmation, but she was too busy smiling and nodding at Ken to notice me looking at her! Now living in separate parts of Summerset, Ken comes to Doreen’s door each evening to collect her for dinner. Aided by walkers, together they make their ambulatory way down the corridor to the dining room. Undetered by mobility, Ken visits Doreen throughout the day to tell her what he’s been reading and studying. Doreen is a little hard of hearing these days, but assures me, with a twinkle in her eye, that she still ‘listens to every word.’ Perhaps the most delightful aspect of this enduring romance is the daily kiss goodnight. Regardless of what has occured during the day, both are committed to wiping the slate clean with a kiss. ‘Early in our marriage we made a daily habit of kissing goodnight and agreeing to start fresh in the morning. Of course, here at Summerset I kiss her goodnight at the door,’ says Ken with his cheeky smile.
So readers take note: the lifelong practice of kissing goodnight could well be the key to a happy marriage. And who can argue with Doreen and Ken after 70 years? Not this writer. (So pucker up Mat!) BY JULES BADGER 23 MARCH 2019 WarCry 17
‘Messengers of the Faith’ Celebrate 50 Years An Army meeting should start strong. That lesson, learnt back at the training college in the 1960s, was kept in mind as the reunion of the ‘Messengers of the Faith’ session got under way, on the 50th anniversary of our commissioning as officers. We began the weekend strong, tenderly naming comrade cadets and staff gone on to Glory—some, decades ago; some, only recently. Then, the gathering’s first song: Charles Wesley’s ‘And are we yet alive, and see each other’s face’—the hymn which for nearly 200 years opened the Methodist conference. The hair-raising Old Testament reading from Malachi 3 announced the foretold, awesome Messenger, one ‘like a refiner’s fire’ who ‘will suddenly come to his temple’. So, on 18 January 2019, the ‘Messengers of the Faith’ 50th sessional reunion was launched in the presence of Jesus, our Captain, the one true Messenger of the Faith—in word and deed. Archaeological digs through lofts and banana boxes had unearthed a collection of treasured memorabilia, which was enriched by the historical displays and splendid brochure prepared by the Heritage Centre and Archive. These, and a resolve to put our ears back to hear as much or little as participants wanted to share, provided the backdrop for the reunion. Through recollections, we recognised in our small—now elderly—session, a remarkable variety of experience and achievements. There have been astounding openings for the gospel, conflicting loyalties negotiated, joys and crises in serving others, and hurdles overcome by God’s grace. The ‘Messengers of the Faith’ have included in this country and overseas: a military Chaplain-Colonel Commandant, corps and social officers, secondary school teachers and a school principal, a still active prison chaplain and life-time local officers, a divisional commander, territorial secretary for music, ambulance driver, training principal, equality campaigners, a music therapist, and a librarian and archivist. In short, backroom and front-line people committed to the service of God, and each still passionate about living out our sessional name. GAZETTE Bereavement: Major Glenda Bezzant and Captain Nathan Bezzant, of father/grandfather Les Mills from Wellington on 28 February 2019, at home in Park Retirement Village. Please uphold Majors Glenda and Ivan Bezzant, Captains Nathan and Jessica Bezzant, Howard Mills, Raewyn and Ian McLaren in prayer during this time of grief and loss. Resignation: Effective 12 May 2019, Captains Julie and Lachlan Marshall. Following their commissioning on 13 December 2008, Julie and Lachlan were appointed as Corps Officers, Blenheim Corps. In addition Lachlan was appointed as ILU Referral Officer and Chaplain for Employment Plus. In January 2015, Julie was appointed as Divisional Secretary for Personnel, Divisional Missionary Fellowship Secretary, and Divisional Silver Star Secretary, Northern Division. Lachlan was appointed as Divisional Secretary for Programme, Northern Division. Julie and Lachlan were appointed as Corps Officers, Wellington South Corps in January 2017. We thank Captains Julie and Lachlan Marshall for over 10 years of active service and pray God’s blessing on them in the days ahead.
18 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
The Messengers of the Faith outside the former training college, on Aro Street, Wellington.
The weekend was marked by heartfelt singing with keyboard and guitar—and everything from a run of ‘old time’ choruses, to the rich range of the Army song book. We included a rendition of our sessional song—a stirring but vocally-testing anthem written in 1967 by New Zealand composers Maureen Jarvis and Dean Goffin, for the small but goodly company of cadets. Saturday included a fascinating and impressive presentation by the Territorial Archivist Sharon Burton, on the current work of the archive in guarding the history and releasing the legacy of the Army. In the afternoon, a visit to the old college at 33 Aro Street was another unforgettable highlight as we explored the building—recalling a tide of memories from half a century ago, and of generations before. We sang and prayed in the assembly hall, its walls still alive with the spirit of many whose names we recall with admiration and thanksgiving to God. In the final meeting, on Sunday morning, we reflected in song and testimony on a stream of people from scripture, history, or our own lives, who were messengers of the faith. Majors Laurel and Malcolm Herring were invited to let the Word speak. Laurel read from 1 Thessalonians 1, while Malcolm both daunted and honoured us with the luminous thought that this wonderful passage was a word directed to us each individually. We parted recalling the words of Wesley’s song that had launched our weekend: ‘Then let us make our boast Of his redeeming power,… And gladly reckon all things loss So we may Jesus gain.’ BY COLONEL MARGARET HAY
‘AS CHRISTIANS, WE ARE NOT ALONE—EVER.’
On Ya Bike! I recently bought a new cycle helmet. It’s pink and I love it! I just went into the bike shop, picked a helmet I liked, paid for it, took it home, strapped it on my melon and went for a bike ride. Easy. But not so for many of our officer friends serving around the world. In fact, a pink cycle helmet doesn’t even feature as a necessity when you don’t have a bike in the first place. The outstanding success of the Just Gifts Salvation Cycles campaign, from the Overseas Development Department, means that late last year 35 new lieutenants from Kenya West Territory, and 17 from Tanzania Territory, each received the gift of a brand new bicycle at their commissioning. When pastoral visitation spans vast distances a bike is a ministry tool greatly coveted because of it’s practicality. Fundraising efforts throughout 2018 by a variety of corps and centres, as well as generous individuals and couples, saw the Salvation Cycles’ initial goal of 60 bikes exceed all expectations. Territorial Leaders, Training College staff and new Lieutenants from both Tanzania and Kenya West Territories extend their thanks to the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory, and express gratitude for such a practical partnership. But let’s not leave it there team! A new campaign ‘Period Poverty for the Pacific’ is about to kick off. Young women in our own territory can miss out on school for up to a week a month simply due a lack of suitable sanitary products. We can make a tangible and immediate difference by supporting this new campaign. So I’m thinking I might just wack that pink helmet on my noggin, get on that bike I take for granted, and start peddling to raise money to end period poverty in the Pacific! Find out more | justgifts.org.nz
BY JULES BADGER
Have you had a close encounter that changed your life forever? Some of you, like me, will remember the 1977 movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind, directed by Steven Spielberg. In it, Roy is exposed to the light from a UFO, and this encounter changes his life. His singular focus from that point on is to reconnect with the light, which sends him on a journey to a mountain he has never been to before—along with other complete strangers who have had similar experiences too. There are obstacles on their journey, but they persevere until they reach the summit and encounter what they were searching for. In an interview, Steven Spielberg said he wanted to make Close Encounters a very accessible story about an everyday individual who has an encounter that overturns his life. If you watch the movie closely, there are a number of biblical references. The movie Ten Commandments is playing on the TV when the light appears, the mountain Roy is attracted to parallels Mt Sinai where Moses had an encounter with God. When Roy goes up in the UFO from the top of the mountain, it is akin to Elijah being taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire. Roy tells one of his companions to not look back as they scale the mountain—similar to the instructions to Lot and his family. Other themes in the movie include having a simple faith like a child—the young boy in the movie isn’t fearful of what he can’t see, and has an innocence and openness to exploration. In addition, there is a message of tolerance—if people seek to communicate with aliens, why can’t we communicate with each other and have our own ‘close encounter’. You may be wondering what a ‘close encounter of the third kind’ actually is. Well, put simply, it’s direct contact, demonstrating that we are not alone. And, as Christians, we are not alone—ever. The Bible has a number of illustrations of close encounters: Saul on the road to Damascus, when suddenly a light from heaven flashed and Jesus spoke with him, changing his life for ever. Matthew, a despised tax collector, who Jesus went up to and simply said ‘follow me’ and Matthew did. We are in a season of encounter—of spiritual renewal, seeking, yearning for the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to permeate every part of our being. I pray that we all have a life-changing ‘close encounter’ this year. Captain Gerry Walker Assistant Secretary for Programme 23 MARCH 2019 WarCry 19
Have We Got it
Wrong? Our international leader takes an honest look at the role of women in The Salvation Army. This piece was originally aimed at officers, but concerns all Salvationists. BY GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE
Equity among The Salvation Army’s 17,000 officers remains a concern, but I am convinced that any effort to get to the heart of this matter must include a heightened awareness among local officers, soldiers, adherents and employees who are part of the mission. My hope is that comments generated by this article will positively fuel the conversation that is needed and therefore contribute to any actions determined. During a recent radio interview I received a compliment about how the Army has so ably provided opportunities for women within our movement, creating a level playing field of fairness and equity. Though I accepted the compliment with thanks, I quickly added that I wished we were further down that track, given this claim to fame which has existed now for more than 150 years. It is my intention to re-energise our focus and fully respond to gender equity, 20 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
keeping at the forefront what I believe is a spiritual imperative in regard to God’s value of all those who he calls into ministry. I thank God that among almost 17,000 active officers, there are countless women who stand in pulpits, direct centres and lead cutting-edge ministry around the globe. This appreciation extends well beyond officer ranks, and as I travel internationally, I take note of the significant role being played by women. As General, what is now clear to me is that there are relatively few women who are leading in decision-making positions. In the officer/leader arena I am referring to those who lead our training colleges, and divisions, or are in leadership positions at territorial headquarters, specifically those of territorial commander, officer commanding and chief secretary. These numbers are so negligible that maintaining them or marginally improving them would not provide much of a boost. The current reality, with a few noted and valued exceptions, shows a male led and influenced Army. This is so, despite the fact that more women than men are ordained officers and enjoy the covenanted journey of service within our Army culture.
‘WILL GOD GIVE US MORE LEADERS IF WE ARE FAILING TO MANAGE, USE AND DEPLOY THOSE WE HAVE?’ At a recent gathering of 40 selected international leaders, I received advice and counsel on two important areas: gender equity and leadership development/succession planning. These topics are related and determined by all international leaders to be at the forefront of our internal and operational culture and call for dialogue and action. Over the next months, the Chief of the Staff will initiate a phased strategy that will engage all of us as stakeholders through surveys, task groups and a review of Orders and Regulations, in an attempt to identify recommendations that will create the change synergy required. As General, I want to provide space for collective wisdom and reasoning, while accepting the reality that aspects of the journey will find their way back to my desk and the consideration of the International Management Council. In sharing this, I want the international Army to be aware, to be engaged and, in particular, to pray. I can hear many asking, ‘So, General, what is on offer?’
I have always struggled with the Founder’s quote: ‘Some of my best men are women’. I would prefer to say that many of our best leaders are women, many of whom are married and, for whatever reason, are not in positions equal to their training, gifting or individual development.
‘AS GENERAL, WHAT IS NOW CLEAR TO ME IS THAT THERE ARE RELATIVELY FEW WOMEN WHO ARE LEADING IN DECISION-MAKING POSITIONS.’
What is not on offer is a ‘silver bullet’; a decision from International Headquarters that can change everything. We all need to be intentional and willing participants to bring about a culture shift that will last.
• In what can only be viewed as a maledominated appointment culture, are we willing to look at significant leader appointments through a ‘best person for the job’ paradigm?
At the heart of gender equity is the ‘default appointment’—one that is received by virtue of an appointment given to a spouse. There is room for a word of caution here. Many who serve in what are considered to be default appointments are content and fully engaged in Kingdom building. We must be careful! There is also the reality that default appointments are often connected to Women’s Ministries, and those in these appointments should not be made to feel less important. Let it be known that ministry to women (who make up more than 50 per cent of Salvationists worldwide) is the most impactful focus available to The Salvation Army. I am calling for zero tolerance for any marginalisation of this important mission focus. Having noted this, I acknowledge the structure of this needs attention. If the focus for this article is gender equity, there must be a focus specifically on married women. That being the case, there are other resulting points worthy of consideration: • Shared leadership—I suspect we will need a theological reflection on equity of leadership in the Army. How does the broader membership of the Army view this? • The Army’s unique opportunity for married couples serving together— how might we preserve the best of what it means to serve together? • Individual journey tracks—leaders’ consultation with officers will be key. • Separate ranks—when we unhook what are often viewed as couple appointments, do we also unhook the rank in leadership appointments?
• Equal opportunity in areas of training and development, and exposure to boards and decision-making would need to progress. I guess before the resounding hallelujahs ring out, a careful, respectful reflection is required, and we would be wise to both speak with and listen to each other. My hope is that, through mechanisms that will come into place, we will be able to do that. As General, it is more important for me to consider careful change in addressing this matter rather than quick, reactive change that further marginalises any Salvationist colleague in any part of the world. I am aware that there are signposts that are viewed by some as obstacles or barriers. I note only a few: • I cannot accept any biblical call on this matter except that we are created equal in God’s image. Any other stance is indefensible! • I note cultural norms in some parts of the world, and while I accept that these exist I call for our organisation to step outside the norms and break with cultural traditions to release the Godgiven potential in every Salvationist. In some of these cultural realities, the national views have moved further along by removing obstacles, thereby leaving the Army behind in these matters.
officers and leaders. That resonates with me and I want to be among those who are candidate recruiters. I want to keep God’s call in front of all Salvationists. As I reflect on the spiritual imperative noted earlier, I ask myself: ‘Will God give us more leaders if we are failing to manage, use and deploy those we have?’ I find that thought very sobering, because I have to admit that without a shift in our culture as it pertains to gender equity, this General faces a formidable challenge in staffing an international Salvation Army. I am convinced of Ephesians 3:20–21, which states that our God is able! ‘Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.’ I am convicted by a sense of responsibility for all our resources and especially for our people. I am compelled to say we must be battleready now! We must press on! Status quo cannot be our battle cry! I will only consider or accept the status quo if it reflects theological truth and doctrine. My ‘Call To Mission’ refers to our responsibility to nurture and raise up our young people, the next generation of leaders for The Salvation Army. Any failure will reflect an outcome which is less than God’s desire for us as his Army.
• Gender equity points to a deeper concern with regard to opportunity and the Army not being prepared for placement of future leaders. I accept that! So, in our leadership development, let’s have personal development plans for every officer.
Start a conversation where you are. Engage with your leaders, regardless of where you find yourself in our structure. Applaud and recognise those among you who have prepared themselves for service. Pray that God will give us eyes to see others as he sees us – as workers in his vineyard. Stronger together, regardless of gender, is an appropriate way forward for this 21st-century Salvation Army. I am convinced of this!
Not many days go by that exclude a reference to or a prayer request for more
Originally published in Officer magazine January-March 2019 23 MARCH 2019 WarCry 21
OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Andy (Territorial Commander) and Yvonne Westrupp (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries): March 30: Women’s Conference with Commissioners Rosalie Peddle and Bronwyn Buckingham, Christchurch (Yvonne only). March 31: Christchurch City Corps with Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, Christchurch (Yvonne only). Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Secretary for Programme): March 24: Visit to Cambridge Corps, Cambridge (AM) March 24: Welcome to Officers, Midland Division, Hamilton (PM) March 25–27: Midland Officers Councils, Hamilton Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development): March 30: Women’s Conference with Commissioners Rosalie Peddle and Bronwyn Buckingham, Christchurch. March 31: Christchurch City Corps with Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, Christchurch.
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PRAY Territorial Property Department, Territorial Public Relations, Pukekohe Corps, Queenstown Corps,
For more information email: salvationistresources@salvationarmy.org.nz
Raiwai Corps; The Salvation Army in Indonesia.
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:
Name Email Address Phone Send to: warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz or War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 Quiz Answers: 1 Kermit the Frog, 2 Green Book, 3 Three—despite the six species being known as either ‘two-toed’ or ‘three-toed’, 4 Raw fish, 5 Jacob (Genesis 28:12-13).
22 WarCry 23 MARCH 2019
‘Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me”,’ (Matthew 19:14)
Jesus was getting very famous. Lots of important people wanted to get close to Jesus—like church leaders, rulers and rich people. In those days, people did not think children were important. In fact, they thought children should get out of the way so they could talk to Jesus!
Would you rather...? Live underwater e? or in outer spac
e, ur lif Eat only pizza for the rest of yo a? t pizz or be able to eat anything excep
Roll-a-Prayer Get an adult to help you cut out and sticky-tape together this dice. Now, roll the dice and pray whatever lands face up.
Be able to f l y or have an invisibility cloak?
One day, the disciples asked Jesus who would be the greatest person in his Kingdom. Jesus saw a little child playing nearby, and called the child over to stand among the adults. I wonder if the child thought they were in trouble? I bet they felt a bit scared. But Jesus was about to drop some truth bombs on the disciples! ‘I promise you this. If you don’t change and become like a child, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven,’ said Jesus. ‘But if you are as humble as this child, you are the greatest in the kingdom of heaven,’ (Matthew 18:3–4 CEV). Do you ever feel ignored by adults, as if you aren’t important? Well, God never ignores you. He even said people who are like children are the greatest of all! This Sunday is The Salvation Army’s International Day of Prayer for Children, and this year’s theme is ‘Pray like a child’. That’s because children know how to have faith in God, and know how to talk to God. You are super-duper-uberduber important to God, and God wants to hear what you have to say. PRAY …
Thank you— for something you’re grateful to God for Sorry— for something you did wrong, knowing God forgives you Please— for something you would like God to do in your life
Think of something you would really like to tell God about, and talk to him about it in your own words. You can’t see God, but God can see you! 23 MARCH 2019 WarCry 23
I won't fret and I won't worry Instead I'll hurry to pray.
I'll turn my problems into petitions And lift my hands in praise.
I'll say goodbye to all my fears,
His presence sets me free
Although I may not understand
I feel God's peace in me.
—Mary Fairchild