New commitments

LIVERPOOL WALTON Tom Elliott and Mary Ellison were enrolled as soldiers. Tom spoke about how, during the Covid-19 lockdowns, he had time to reflect and realise what was important in life. He felt that his faith had grown during this time. Mary gave an inspiring testimony about how God had supported her during some difficult days following a serious cycling accident and how he continues to be with her. The songsters sang ‘Somebody Prayed for Me’, which is Mary’s favourite song. She was content in the knowledge that people were praying for her and her husband, Denis. – LH

BICESTER Janet left The Salvation Army many years ago but never left her calling to be a disciple of Jesus. She has lived a life of ministry and has served suffering humanity, having started a food bank for the town out of her own garage 15 years ago. Now in her 80s, she has recently retired from running the food bank and serves the corps by supporting teenagers with special needs in the Vine Training Café. Janet spoke of how she had never really left the Army in her heart, but seasons of life had taken her to different churches and she praised God, through tears, for bringing her back to The Salvation Army where she belongs. The Scripture chosen for Janet was John 21:15–17, which resonated with her life of service to the Lord. – JS FALMOUTH TEMPLE Kate Jago was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Andrew Hammond. Four years ago, Kate started attending the community café and, because of the warm welcome, began to attend the Sunday Church Gathering to explore the claims of Jesus. Kate testified that, despite her brokenness, Jesus had reached out to her and in response she turned in repentance, faith and love to him. Kate and Captain Andrew are pictured with corps officer Captain Nicola Hammond. – AH BASINGSTOKE Tony Clarke was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Lieutenant Rob Westwood-Payne. Tony returned to The Salvation Army after joining in with worship during the Covid-19 pandemic when corps meetings were live-streamed online. He testified to the change that God had made in his heart and life after many years of being away from him. Tony and Lieutenant Rob are pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Ann Tarry. – RW-P

NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE Rosey Bullock was a junior soldier at Ashington Corps a number of years ago. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she remembered her calling there and realised the Lord was asking her to return to her faith. Rosey was warmly welcomed at Newcastle City Temple and she decided that she wanted to make the commitment of soldiership. Recruiting Sergeant Heather Stubbs guided Rosey through this commitment. Rosey is pictured with corps officer Major Liz Hancock. – BI