SALVATIONIST
CALLED TO SERVE BY LOVE
SURVIVORS
ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP?
For everyone linked to The Salvation Army 70p/80c 11 May 2024
PAGE 14
THESE words of Jesus, found in Matthew 22:14 (English Standard Version), are in the context of a wedding banquet to which all were invited. However, one is found who has not dressed for the occasion and they are ejected. This parable is, of course, a metaphorical warning that, although all are invited into the Kingdom, we need to respond appropriately and clothe ourselves accordingly, living lives that reflect that calling. So much so that we stand out and are noticeably different from those around us.
This Sunday (12 May) is Candidates Sunday and so we are reflecting on different examples of those who have responded to God’s call on their lives and are seeking to live it out in spiritual ministry, whatever that may look like. Responding to God’s invitation to follow and step out into his service.
It is important to be ready to say yes to the invitation to spiritual leadership, including officership or territorial envoyship. But the call to serve is for everyone. The challenge is to be God-honouring in the way we live our lives wherever God has placed us, so that others may see him in us and respond for themselves.
ON THE WEBSITE
True Story Help children understand modern slavery
Pentecost resources
Download now
To subscribe, speak to your corps leader or visit sps-shop.com
EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
MANAGING
EDITOR Ivan Radford
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Stevie Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey
ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips, Joseph Halliday
PROOFREADER Chris Horne
CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk
DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
FOUNDER William Booth
GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham
TERRITORIAL LEADERS
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS
1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101
Salvationist 11 May 2024 2
@SalvationistUKI
©
Salvation Army United Kingdom
Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909. The Salvation Army is
Christian church
registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399. Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton. SALVATIONIST Issue No 1960 Visit salvationist.org.uk 6+7 BIBLE STUDY Pentecost Telling God’s story How do people come to faith? ‘Many are called, but few are chosen’ NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE @SalvationistUKI AGE GAP: TWO OFFICERS TALK SERVICE 10+11 COMMISSIONING AT TOGETHER 2024 5 TESTIMONIES FROM THE ICO 8+9 ENVOYS TELL THEIR STORIES
The
and
a
and
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor
12+13
Made whole
As The Repair Shop continues on BBC One, Ron Thomlinson considers the power of memories
ON Wednesday evening, millions of people will tune in to BBC One to watch the next episode of The Repair Shop. Presented by Jay Blades, the show takes viewers into a workshop filled with expert craftspeople, where loved pieces of family history are taken apart, examined, cleaned and put back together again. The programme demonstrates the power of memories. Perhaps some of our memories and experiences need to be lovingly restored through the process known as re-member-ing.
What has surprised me most about ageing is the extent to which memories and my image of God have taken over my thinking. Memories and how we deal with them can define us. They help form our response to present-day relationships and our spiritual life. However, taking a stroll down memory lane is not always pleasant. Our memories are as varied as the adjectives to describe them: cherished, shameful, happy, toe-curling, beautiful, debilitating. We can have memories of feeling God-forsaken or overwhelmed by a sense of God’s presence.
Albert Orsborn prayed: ‘Call into thy fold of peace/ Thoughts that seek forbidden ways’ (SASB 325). Our memories can take us down ‘forbidden ways’, disturbing our everyday life and our present experience of God. Herbert Booth wrote: ‘All the memories of deeds gone by/ Rise within me and thy power defy’ (SASB 474).
This is why our memories need
re-member-ing. To be healed, we need to bring our painful memories out of the shadows. ‘I failed badly’ can be re-member-ed as ‘I was courageous coming through that situation’. Such re-member-ing can save us from spiritual imprisonment.
Speaking to a wise friend may be sufficient to come to terms with some memories. Traumatic, tragic, destructive remembrances may need the skill of a counsellor or even legal justice. We may never rid ourselves of a particular hurt, but our memories can be approached with understanding, grace, salvation and forgiveness – we must remember to forgive ourselves and others for not being God.
Commenting on 2 Peter 1, Steven Croft, the Bishop of Oxford, wrote: ‘The author … knows that very little time is left to him. Death is not far away now. He uses what may be his final letter to the Church for reminding and re-member-ing. To re-member is, literally, to put things back together again: to reassemble the big picture of our faith, to re-orientate our lives again with God’s love and grace and God’s call at the centre.’
Remembrance is at the heart of our personal and corporate faith. It determines our approach to our God as an individual and as a group. If you, like me, are in your older years, why not try re-member-ing your own salvation history? It could be surprising.
Start by recalling where your first picture of God came from – who gave it to you, where, and in which
circumstances. What senses were used in creating that image? Music, icons, family life, church or Army traditions? How were you taught to approach God? Once you have taken it apart, examined and cleaned it, put it back together again. What has happened to you since? Who is God for you now? Do you now approach God differently from when you first began?
There is more to old age than just the excitement of waiting to collect the next repeat prescription. By re-member-ing, we can still practise all we have preached. We can be both use and ornament – healed and restored.
Reflect and
respond
Consider this quote from Henri Nouwen: ‘Our prayer can only become unceasing when all our thoughts – beautiful or ugly, high or low, proud or shameful, sorrowful or joyful – can be thought in the presence of the One who dwells in us and surrounds us... The main question, therefore, is not so much what we think, but to whom we present our thoughts.’
Salvationist 11 May 2024 3
TRENDING RON THOMLINSON The Netherlands
BBC/Ricochet Ltd/Jack Barnes
Picture:
Can you name these Bible books?
by Garry D Reed
1 English rock band formed in Godalming in 1967.
3 TS Eliot’s old cat.
2 3, 73, 94, 143, 298, 654, etc.
4 Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.
‘There
is adventure in following God’s call’
Cadet Dave Perkins shares his journey to officership
I5 British actor known for her role as Gladys Pugh in Hi-de-Hi!.
stretched me and strengthened my trust in God, as well as making precious family memories. But I am super excited about our appointment to Maidstone and joining in with all that God is doing in and through the corps and community.
6 Dame who founded Childline and The Silver Line.
7 English actor who rose to fame portraying Harry Potter.
8 Musical duo Angelo Mammone and Christian Steenken.
9 Word with many different meanings, including an old German coin and the starting line in a race.
10 English priest who fabricated the Popish Plot in 1678.
11 Paul McCartney composition written to comfort John Lennon’s son.
12 Enlightenment at the end.
GREW up attending corps where many people encouraged me on my faith journey. Aged 17, during a worship and teaching session at a Central South Division Summer School, I answered Jesus’ call to follow him when I felt a strong conviction from the Holy Spirit to respond. From that day I felt called to some sort of ministry and I was privileged to live this out as a soldier working with the young people and in employed roles within the Army. When I was on my way to visit my parents in north London, I stopped at a random Tesco. An officer I’d never met spotted the red shield on my jacket and shared a word of Scripture and calling on my life. It was an interesting encounter, but I put it to the back of my mind. However, during the Covid-19 lockdowns, I suddenly felt a strong conviction in my heart from the Holy Spirit that I was called to officership. It was a similar feeling to when I responded to God during that summer school!
Before entering the college, my wife and I had opportunity to work at a Salvation Army children’s camp in Arizona. A couple of people wisely advised us to prayerfully discern whether to go. Another suggested it was a crazy idea to take our six-monthold baby on an 11-hour flight to the Arizona desert and away from family for 3 months. One day, the local prison chaplain popped into the corps and I mentioned the idea to him. He said: ‘Of course it’s crazy, but of course you’ve got to do it!’
I loved his response because I think it also applies to the call to officership. It encapsulates the element of sacrifice and the challenges, and the privilege to minister with people, but there is also a sense of adventure in following God’s call on my life.
Maggie (Staines) my wife and Salvation na. r six-montho the Arizona or 3 months. aid in d the idea crazy, it!’ e I to e ure time out people also had ays that have
The resurrected Jesus said to the disciples in the locked room: ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you… Receive the Holy Spirit’ (John 20:21 and 22). In all the excitement and change, I pray I will know God’s peace and rely on the Holy Spirit in all things! Theologian Chris Wright suggests that the concept of sending and being sent lies at the heart of God’s mission. I wonder what God is sending you to?
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith journey! Get in touch at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk
Studying at William Booth College has been an amazing time of equipping, learning more about God and myself, meeting new people and making great friends. I’ve also had opportunities to minister in ways that have
TESTIMONY
4 Salvationist 11 May 2024 Salvationist 11 2024 ANSWERS 1 Genesis 2 Numbers 3 Deuteronomy 4 Judges 5 Ruth 6 Esther 7 Daniel 8 Jonah 9 Mark 10 Titus 11 Jude 12 Revelation
Quiz Bibliotheque
Are you called?
Major Jo Moir looks ahead to the Commissioning of the Defenders of Justice at Together 2024
ON Sunday 14 July at the ICC Wales in Newport, the Defenders of Justice session will be commissioned and ordained. This Commissioning at Together 2024 will be historic: it will be the first to take place outside England.
The impact of this moment of commitment will inspire everyone witnessing it, and also challenge them to explore how they are called by God.
The Candidates Unit have been a creative, visible presence at Together for the past two years.
‘We value the opportunity to be present, to share resources and to support those who have been inspired, challenged and encouraged to explore what God is saying to them,’ says Territorial Candidates Director Major Mark Sawyer. ‘We have tried lots of creative ways to connect with people: resource stands, a Candidates Reception and simply walking around the venue meeting people to start a conversation about calling.’
No one yet has run away when they’ve seen Mark approaching – in fact, nearly all the conversations begin with people approaching him.
‘People are open and positive and respond to the invitation to talk,’ enthuses Mark. ‘My approach hasn’t changed since I became an officer.
I am as passionate about spiritual leadership as I was when I began this journey. However, my wife, Major Andrea Sawyer, and I being territorial candidates directors often leads to a natural dialogue about faith, ministry and vocation.’
Because Together includes Commissioning, as well as mission resourcing and exposure to the ministry of the Army across the territory, it is a weekend when people are perhaps more attuned to calling and vocation.
‘I sense that our openness to the Spirit of God is particularly heightened at events like Together,’ says Mark. ‘We are gathered for worship and teaching, inspired by God’s work through corps and centres and we witness the commitment of the territory’s newest lieutenants. It is a wonderful place and space for hearts to be stirred.
‘Commissioning might naturally raise the question: “Is this something I am called to?” For some people, asking that question might lead them to an awareness that they are right where they are supposed to be within God’s plan. For others, the experience might start a process of exploring vocation and spiritual leadership.’
If you want to talk to someone from the Candidates Unit, they will be present at Together 2024 in the engagement space and will take part in Saturday afternoon’s
Community Café Church, as well as Sunday afternoon’s celebration session. If you are watching Sunday’s Commissioning and celebration meetings via livestream, you can talk to your corps leader or email the Candidates Unit at vocation@salvationarmy.org.uk
‘Pray that throughout our territory, future spiritual leadership will be high on the agenda divisionally and locally,’ adds Mark. ‘Pray for officers, who are the role models for this wonderful vocation, and pray that others are inspired to explore God’s calling on their lives and have the courage to take the first steps towards officership, territorial envoyship and spiritual leadership.’
Tickets for Together 2024 are available at salvationist.org.uk/ together. The Commissioning of the Defenders of Justice and the afternoon’s celebration will be available to stream live at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo on Sunday 14 July at 10.30am and 3pm.
Salvationist 11 May 2024 5
PREVIEW
MAJOR JO MOIR
THQ
Territorial Communications Officer
Picture: Andrew King Photography
Choosing the right candidate
Major Ian Loxley considers how we make time for God in our decision-making
ACTS 1:12–26
THE disciples experienced unimaginable loss when Jesus was crucified. Many of them –certainly the men who were closest to Jesus – deserted him, and some returned home. However, the risen Jesus revealed himself to them, shared meals with them and restated the promise that, after his ascension, the Holy Spirit would be poured out upon them all.
Having seen Jesus ascend to Heaven, the eleven remaining members of the hand-picked Twelve – along with the women and Jesus’ mother and brothers – obediently moved forward with renewed faith.
Arriving back in Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, they gathered together with a challenging agenda: to choose a replacement for Judas.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Have you ever felt like Jesus has left you?
In times of doubt or grief, what would be a better response: distance yourself from him and other believers or get closer to him and others who follow him?
We read that, when they were upstairs in the room, the group were ‘constantly in prayer’ (v14). Prayer had become their priority. Before picking up their agenda, they prayed together. Their prayer was described as constant or, as one translation words it, they ‘were continually devoting themselves to prayer’ (Amplified Bible). Prayer permeated the entire decision-making process.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Do you ever fall into a trap of sandwiching decision-making between formal prayer at the start and finish of the process?
How can you ensure that your conversation with God continues throughout each day?
How can you ensure it informs every decision you make?
With the phrase ‘constantly in prayer’, our reading seems to be suggesting that prayer can become an ongoing conversation between God and his people.
It also points out that the believers were of ‘one mind and one purpose’ (v14 AB). This contrasts with the attitude of some of the disciples just a short time earlier, who were looking to confirm their own status in God’s Kingdom by arguing about who would become the greatest (see Luke 22:24–27). Now, the focus is on discovering the will of God in order to implement it, and this unifies the group and gives credibility to their praying.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Unity among believers is crucial, especially in the context of choosing leaders or candidates for specific roles. Demonstrating the agreement of the community gives credibility and accountability. Is there something you could do to ensure unity within your fellowship so that you are truly praying together rather than at cross-purposes?
Peter outlined specific criteria for the selection of Judas’s replacement. The replacement had to be someone who had
been present from the time of Jesus’ baptism by John until the Ascension. This clearly demonstrates the importance of considering qualifications and experience when choosing candidates for leadership roles or other responsibilities.
These principles were demonstrated later when seven people were chosen to ‘wait on tables’ so that the apostles could give their ‘attention to prayer and the ministry of the word’. The proposed candidates were ‘full of the Spirit and wisdom’ (Acts 6:2–4).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
To have candidates available for ministry who are ‘full of the Spirit and wisdom’, the process of discipling believers is crucial. Jesus spent about three years inspiring and training his disciples. The apostle Paul mentored Timothy to prepare him for leadership within the Church. What role can you play in the training and equipping of people for ministry?
Even though the disciples proposed two candidates, they ultimately trusted in God’s sovereignty to guide the outcome. The casting of lots, which resulted in Matthias being chosen over Joseph, sounds strange to us. It is likely that the candidates’ names were written on stones and placed in a jar. The jar would be shaken until one of the stones came out. This was a recognised method for discerning God’s will and, in those days, it was seen as a totally fair decision-making tool. It also ensured that arguments would not occur once the winner was revealed.
This is the last occasion recorded in the Bible where God’s people cast lots. Today, most Christians believe that the Holy Spirit, who is present in the lives of all believers, will give direction in decision-making.
Salvationist 11 May 2024 6
BIBLE STUDY
PAUSE AND REFLECT
What important decisions need to be made within your denomination, your congregation and your own life? How do we ensure our decisions are in line with God’s will?
After Matthias was chosen to be an apostle, the group were free to continue their mission of spreading the good news. This underscores the importance of selecting candidates who are committed to the purpose and mission of the organisation or community they will serve. The Church needed to be able to trust Matthias, and Matthias needed to know that he was in the right place.
Although not mentioned again in the New Testament, a number of traditions speak of his faithfulness in preaching the good news of Jesus possibly in Cappadocia or Colchis – modern-day Georgia – or even in Ethiopia. Some say he was martyred and others that he died in old age. Traditions aside, Matthias would have faced persecution and would have suffered because of his faithfulness to Jesus. He needed to know that his calling was of God.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Being obedient to God’s calling was a challenge to the early Christians, and, probably for very different reasons, it is a challenge to us.
How do you ensure that you remain obedient to God’s calling on your life?
As of January 2024, Prayer Matters is following a new prayer rhythm, to pray for renewal in this territory’s worship and mission. Each day has a theme, based on the five mission priorities. To read the unedited Prayer Matters booklet visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 11 MAY: CARE FOR CREATION – JOINING THE DOTS
Pray that God will help us to look beyond our own relatively comfortable lifestyles, to consider the needs of those who cannot avoid the devastating consequences of climate change and the ruthless exploitation of Earth’s resources. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
SUNDAY 12 MAY: SABBATH PRAYER – WAITING
God, we pray that we may discern what you are showing us when we are in a season of waiting. May we wait in quiet trust and joyful hope, prepared to listen and respond to the Spirit. by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
MONDAY 13 MAY: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – CENTRAL, SOUTHERN AND CHANNEL ISLANDS DIVISION
Pray for us as we move towards fully blending residential events for the whole division. Pray that our youth and children’s events will be places where the good news of Jesus is shared and lives are transformed. by Major Mike Lloyd-Jones (Divisional Commander)
TUESDAY 14 MAY: SERVING AND CARING – DIVISIONAL YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S WORKER GATHERING (14–16 MAY)
This year we’ll be welcoming divisional children’s workers and officers as well as divisional youth specialists. Pray that each person will find rest and refreshment, as well as being re-energised and inspired to continue their work. We know that the Holy Spirit will be at work; pray that we will all be open to respond. Pray that relationships will be developed, deepened and strengthened too. by Lieutenant Kat Whitmore (Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary)
WEDNESDAY 15 MAY: GROWING IN FAITH – YORKSHIRE AND HUMBER DIVISION
We are holding a Spiritual Retreat Day (16 May) for all involved in leadership across the division. Pray that, as the leaders gather and share in both worship and teaching, the Spirit of God will move among us, speak into our minds and reach into our hearts.
by Major Alec Still (Divisional Commander)
THURSDAY 16 MAY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – HONG KONG AND MACAU TERRITORY
Pray for territorial leaders Colonels Phil and Deslea Maxwell and Chief Secretary Major Tsui, Heung-Ying (Minny). This year marks 25 years since the beginning of the Army’s work in Macau. Pray that the celebrations will be an opportunity to look back and see all that God has done, and to look ahead with hope and faith for what God is yet to do.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 17 MAY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – FAMILY TRACING SERVICE
Gracious God, we pray for every person whose role encompasses family tracing work, both in the UK and overseas. We pray that you will equip them with empathy, wisdom and grace while they support those who are disenfranchised, distressed and hurt.
by
Karen Wallace (Team Leader, Family Tracing Service)
MAJOR IAN LOXLEY Chaplain THQ
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and it will be upheld in prayer.
God’s way with me
Three delegates from the 257th session at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development share their testimonies
CAPTAIN BEATRIZ MACAMO
Spiritual Formation Officer
Mozambique Territory
I WAS born in the province of Gaza in southern Mozambique. At the age of two, I was separated from my mother due to war, and I went to live in the capital city, Maputo, with my aunt. As you can imagine, it is not easy for a child to grow up away from their mother. My life experience worsened at the age of seven when my mother died, and I was not able to travel to say a last goodbye. My childhood was challenging because my aunt was not very compassionate and, as a result, I suffered physically, emotionally and psychologically. However, she was always there for me and became a recipient of the Silver Star when I became an officer. As 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, I am grateful to her and to God, and today I still have someone I can call mother.
Growing up, I enjoyed going to church and was baptised in a congregational
church, which was very far from home. I went to Sunday school with some of my neighbour’s children but, when they moved, I was too lazy to go alone. I stopped going for a long time until I met my boyfriend, who told me about his desire to become a Salvation Army officer. Sometimes, he invited me to the Army.
In 2000, I finally decided to become a soldier. Through conversations with my husband, through God’s word and prayer, I felt the call to become an officer.
MAJOR MARITANA VOLANT Corps Officer and Divisional Youth and Candidates Secretary Caribbean Territory
I WAS born and raised in a Catholic family in the northern part of Haiti. I was very fortunate to be christened and attend a Salvation Army school. Even though my parents were Catholic, it was compulsory for me and my siblings to attend Sunday school at the Army, which was next door to our family home.
In 2008, I joined the training college and I was commissioned in 2009. I have had four appointments: sectional director of women’s ministries in two different locations, corps officer and divisional director of women’s ministries. Now, I am at the training college as a spiritual formation officer. My supporting verse in my ministry has been 1 Corinthians 15:58: ‘Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.’ I am convinced that my ICO experience and interaction with officers from different contexts will enhance my ministry.
Being a Christian is what I have always known. I became a junior soldier at the age of eight and a senior soldier at fourteen. When I was a child, I never knew what my future would look like. I remember that, whenever I said my prayers, I always placed my future in God’s hands, and that was the best thing I could ever have done. Since I surrendered my life to Jesus, he has turned it around. I believe, even before I was born, he chose me and set me apart for his service.
There was a time in my life when my
d interaction t contexts that m o enha
Salvationist 11 May 2024 8
faith was tested after a terrible accident that almost took my life. I was broken to pieces, but my faith was renewed in my brokenness by knowing that God was in control. Three years after my accident, I entered the training college and was commissioned as an officer in 2005. Since then, I have been serving God faithfully throughout the Caribbean Territory. Presently I am serving in the Guyana Division as a corps officer and divisional youth and candidates secretary. Ministry and life can be very challenging, but God has kept me faithful and I have witnessed his goodness.
When I was a child, I could only dream of walking on the soil of London. But look what the Lord has done! Not only did he save my life, he also healed my broken pieces and brought me all the way from Haiti to England to be among the great leaders of the Army. I cannot hide my joy. I am thankful to God for working wonders in my life.
CAPTAIN MYCHEL CARDINEZ Corps Officer and Divisional Support for Programme
The Philippines Territory
IT is my greatest joy to share my testimony as a life changed and chosen by God for his glory. I was born and raised in a loving family in the southern part of the Philippines in Nuevo Iloco, Davao de Oro. I am presently appointed to Makati Corps with my wife, Captain Ria Cardinez, and work part-time as divisional support for programme for Central Philippines. I am also blessed with three children, Ryaj, Alexa and Ruhan.
I came to know Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour in 2000 and was called to full-time ministry as an officer in 2010. When God called me to become an officer, he placed a deep passion in my heart to open new work in places where the Army does not exist and is not yet known.
In our first appointment, alongside being corps officers, we continued running two local pioneering works. God has placed a deep desire within us to mentor and equip young people who feel God’s call to officership. During our nine years in the corps, we have sent seven young people for training as cadets, who are now faithfully serving as officers.
I have this huge dream for the Army that, in each large group of islands of the Philippines, a megachurch will be established, and many souls will come to know Christ.
Being in a corps appointment has been a journey of joys and sorrows, hardships and victories, learning and growth. We have come to increasingly appreciate and love God and the people he has entrusted to us. We have witnessed the Lord’s richest blessings on our work as all the corps and ministries we have managed and opened have become fully self-supporting, and each has established active care group ministries.
As you read this testimony, please envision someone from the land of Haiti who testifies with firm and unwavering conviction that God’s mighty hand is at work in every life that depends on him.
conv is at on h in my life. s e h firm and God’s hand y life that depends
established I look for experiencin movement uses me fo ICO is a ble ne ministry an the interna to Cour office dev enviro spir
I look forward to more years of experiencing God and his mighty movement in places where he leads and uses me for his service. Being at the ICO is a blessing. I look forward to learning new things to enhance my ministry and widen my perspective on the international Army. All glory belongs to him!
What is the ICO?
Located at Sunbury Court, the ICO exists to further officers’ personal and leadership development. It provides an environment for them to flourish spiritually through teaching, prayer, worship and fellowship.
Salvationist 11 May 2024 9
Age
How were you called to officership?
gap
Chris I was a nurse and married with two children. When I married Rik, he wasn’t a Christian. When I made a commitment to Christ, and started praying for Rik, he had a bit of a Damascus Road experience! Everybody’s calling is different, but for me it was this general awareness that, although I was happy in nursing as a way to serve God, it was not what God wanted. And then Rik started feeling God calling him too.
Patsy I’ve known for many years I was supposed to work for the Church. There was a very clear sense of that. I grew up in the Army at a corps with not many young people, so I went to a local Anglican church and led Sunday school, with my parents and sister still at the Army. When I was doing my A-levels, one night I had this picture in my head of me in front of a Salvation Army building. I was in uniform and I knew I was in charge. My mum said: ‘Maybe God’s calling you to be an officer.’
Lieutenant Patsy Attwood (Sudbury) and Major Chris Pears exchange their experiences of officership, calling and joyful obedience
The summer before I went to university, the new corps officer was installed and they were the area candidates officer. A little while later, she told me: ‘When you left the hall, a voice said: “And she will be an officer.”’ So I started pushing that door. There’s a video the Candidates Unit put out several years ago that ended with:
‘Why not you? Why not now?’ Every time I thought I wasn’t sure, that video followed me around! At the end of my degree, I could think of nothing else. I went to an online assessment conference in May 2021 and moved to William Booth College in September.
Chris You often hear people say ‘God called me and I had to do it’ with a sort of heaviness, but that joyful obedience is so important. I wanted to be obedient to God. I wanted to be joyful about that. You sound like you knew for years that this was what you’re meant to do, which is lovely. Patsy Oh, yes! And I have never seen it as any sort of heavy sacrifice. I think about what I have gained from this. I was coming up to the assessment conference and I thought, ‘Even if this isn’t right, I’ve learnt so much about myself and about God.’ I wouldn’t have thought, ‘I’ve wasted 18 months of my life.’
Chris I love that. I think it’s important to say, ‘God, this is for you and this is what you want.’ But it’s not a heavy sacrifice –40 years on, I’ve never felt that. I am so grateful to God for the privilege of ministry as an officer.
Patsy I remember signing the Officers Covenant. I knelt at the mercy seat and said: ‘One last time, God. Are you sure?’ He said yes.
Can you remember what it was like starting your first appointment?
Chris We went to Newton Abbot and were blessed with lovely local leaders who knew more than we did! While not new to leadership roles, officer-ministry was a new kind of work. They encouraged, taught and prayerfully supported us in our ministry.
Patsy I love the people at Sudbury dearly. They’re a lovely congregation. There is a full sense of welcome and a wonderful atmosphere of unity. On my installation Sunday, I did the sermon, I looked out and I thought, ‘I belong here.’
What’s surprised you in your time as an officer?
Patsy How different every single day is! The things I have done! We were helping sort out someone’s flat and I was cleaning a bathroom and I thought to myself, ‘This is interesting! Just breathe out through your mouth!’ The other surprise I learnt early on being involved in the Army is the level of trust people place in you when you have a red shield on your T-shirt or something. I pray that I never take that for granted.
Chris That is so true! And we don’t want to ever disappoint them, because we are human and we can, can’t we? There are so many surprising things I’ve done over the years! There was an ITV comedy about the Army, Hallelujah!, starring Thora Hird in the 1980s. I would watch that and think, ‘That’s not half as funny as my life!’ But I’ve also had things like being called to a hospital to speak to
“ God’s grace is sufficient. ”
INTERVIEW
10
a mother who used to go to a Sunday school and whose baby had died. There are such extremes in our ministry and you can’t do it in your own strength –only by God’s grace. And God’s grace is sufficient. I also know how blessed I am to have someone at home I can offload everything to if I’ve had a difficult day. How is that for you as a single officer?
Patsy It can be hard, but that’s when I’m grateful for my parents. My mum is a territorial envoy, so she’s done quite a lot of these things. I’m not far from them, so that’s a real blessing.
Who has inspired you in your faith and ministry?
Chris My mum. She was a Methodist and her faith was amazing. My dad died when I was 13 and, when Rik and I responded to our calling, I had to tell her. I feel she made a sacrifice and happily let us go. I also think of General John Gowans and Commissioner Harry Read, two great leaders. As the territorial candidates secretary, Rik worked under John Gowan’s leadership. We both found him inspirational in so many ways. And Harry was brilliant. We recall at officers councils being given permission to fail, as long as we tried. He and his wife, Win, were prayerfully supportive of us and our children, even into their retirement.Also, so many people in our corps over the years, whose faith was incredible and who would be there for me. I thank God for them.
Patsy There are so many people I could list! I’m a big believer in seasons,
that there’s a season for everything. For example, I’m in this season of being a single officer. All my life, at different points, there have been different people there. The chaplains at the University of Chester were wonderful. My summer placement officers at Bedford Congress Hall were wonderful – the prayer support I’ve had from them is amazing. The wonderful officers at the college as well. It’s always been the right people at the right time, showing me different ways of officership and ministry.
Is there a particular spiritual gift you have in your ministry?
Patsy God’s given me a gift for teaching and I don’t mind saying that. I’ve got such a passion for leading corporate worship and encouraging people to think about Scripture. I love doing a Sunday meeting. I write down my sermon and choose the songs, but everything else I see how God’s moving and how everything fits together.
rite down od’s ether. bout mportant When und it best of inistry –. I’ve also s ody ts
Chris I love that you speak about teaching as your gift! It’s so important to know your gifts and help people be empowered to use theirs. When I became aware of mine, I found it very liberating. So I’m not a preacher. I will teach, and do it to the best of my ability – it’s part of my ministry –but I’m a pastor. I care, I love. I’ve also learnt I can work with others whose gifts are not mine – in the body of Christ, we want all the gifts working together.
“ Every day is different! ”
How have you seen the Army change in your lifetime?
Chris Massively. And I’m glad. Not because it was bad, but because we have to be open to being Spirit-led. There’s that song: ‘To serve the present age,/ My calling to fulfil’ (SASB 946).
I pray for our leaders in these times, as culture has changed so much. As long as our mission doesn’t change – the Army has to stay doing what it’s called to do. Patsy I agree! How things are now is different from how they were, but if we’ve done our best serving God and are open to the Spirit, that’s what matters. At the beginning of my officership, I am excited to see what will happen. God is not finished with The Salvation Army! All we’re asked to do is participate in God’s mission. When we realise that, the glory goes back to God.
Chris What will the Army look like in 50 years? I haven’t got a clue. And you know what? That’s exciting! We’ve got people like you, Patsy, and I’m very inspired by you. You’ve got years ahead of you and, by the grace of God, you can do it!
11
Stories of surrender
Territorial envoys share their testimonies of calling and commitment
Territorial Envoy
Julia Anyon
Oldham Fitton Hill
A LITTLE while ago I found a Sunday school prize from when I was eight. In it I wrote: ‘God has called me to be a Salvation Army officer!’ The date says 1979! Now, at the age of 53, I am finally following God’s calling as a territorial envoy!
I’ve not always been good at allowing God to work in me. When trying to explain this to someone, I said something about ‘wasted years’. They replied: ‘Julia, in God’s service nothing is wasted.’ I thought about this and all the things that have happened to me.
When, as a mum of young children, I met other mums with whom I could share Jesus. Wasted? No! The years I went through breast cancer, feeling God close and sharing Jesus with people I would have never crossed paths with. Wasted? No!
When I left teaching to work as a children’s ministry specialist, I convinced myself I was answering God’s calling. God had other plans but, during that time, I helped people with their ministry so that they could live out their calling. Wasted? I don’t think so!
So here I am, answering that call and loving the opportunities I am blessed with. God hasn’t let go. Praise him for his faithfulness.
Territorial Envoy
Ruth Morey
North Walsham
I RECALL being at William Booth College at the tender age of 10, while my parents were in training, and being referred to as a ‘mini cadet’.
Over the years, I have often been challenged to take up the call to officership, but I always made excuses. I wasn’t the right mould. I was no spiritual orator. I wouldn’t cope with the demands. I wasn’t capable. I wasn’t worthy. I had no talent. And so, the list went on.
I disregarded God and those who would challenge me about God’s plan for my life. I became very career-minded and fulfilled in senior management at High Leigh and Swanwick. My ministry, joy and contentment was in serving others. Some 48 years later, I became more aware of the young boy who gave over his five loaves and two fish (see John 6:1–14). He surrendered very little, but the Lord used them in a mighty way. If something that was seemingly insignificant in my life was handed over willingly, how much more would God multiply it and use it to accomplish his purpose! Are you prepared to give him your two and five? Then get ready to see all that he will accomplish through you!
Territorial Envoy
Jason Wearmouth
Hexham
I FIRST felt called to spiritual leadership when I was in high school, not long after making my own decision to follow Jesus at Northern Summer School.
I have been brought up in the Army and attended since birth. But, for each of us, there comes a point where we must make our own personal decision for Jesus. That came for me as a 13-year-old at summer school. Over the years, I have been part of divisional vocational fellowships and attended Exploring Leadership Day. I also did the Alove essential programme in 2012/13.
I started working at Berwick Corps in 2014, and it was through the mission and ministry opportunities I was given there that God called me to territorial envoyship. I heard God saying he wanted me to be an envoy for a while, but I ignored it as I felt I was fulfilling my calling where I was. However, God persisted.
The process to become a territorial envoy was a lot longer than I initially expected, but I believe that God makes all things beautiful in his time. In everything I keep my eyes focused on Christ, seeking first his Kingdom and his righteousness and allowing him to direct my path.
Salvationist 11 May 2024 12
INTERVIEW
Territorial Envoy
Harry Woods
Beccles
IN 2018, on a Sunday morning, my life changed for ever.
morning, my life
on Romans 12:2: ‘Do ttern of this world but nding he
Our officer preached on Romans 12:2: ‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’ Wow! I recall standing up and, the next thing I knew, I was at the mercy seat – although I can’t recall walking there. That day, I gave my life to the Lord, overcome by emotion and tears of happiness.
From that day, God’s call on my life became clearer every day. My life changed and I knew in my heart that it would never be the same again.
nd the same again. le not just on oldiership classes.
I began attending Bible study, not just on Sundays. I later began soldiership classes. Through God’s leading – and wanting to make this commitment – I felt God saying to me: ‘I want more of you than just this much.’ God was calling me and that was clear. Through prayer, I began the journey to becoming a territorial envoy, leading his church and helping to grow his Kingdom.
Want to know more?
Territorial Candidates Directors Majors Andrea and Mark Sawyer answer some questions about being a territorial envoy.
What do territorial envoys do?
Territorial envoyship offers a great opportunity to serve in spiritual leadership. The day-to-day work and ministry of a territorial envoy serving as a corps leader is similar to that of a corps officer.
Who can become a territorial envoy?
I encourage you this day to seek God’s calling on your life, and I thank the Lord for the privilege that it is to serve him.
It is open to all soldiers between the ages of 18 and 65.
How long does a territorial envoy serve for?
Territorial envoys sign up and commit to a minimum of three years’ service with many serving longer following that experience. Some serve in their own division, while others move to different areas to work and minister.
How do I become a territorial envoy?
Talk to your corps officer and they will link up with your divisional headquarters and talk about the best way forward.
Salvationist 11 May 2024 13
ENDLOB S S COMPASSION PASSION RESPECT INTE G R I YT YTILIBATNUOCCALAUTUM O S I
For more, visit salvationist. org.uk/ our-values or scan the QR code. This article demonstrates The Salvation Army’s key value of passion.
‘If you don’t have the conversation, you’ll never know’
Major Mark Sawyer talks to Salvationist about candidates and leadership
You and Major Andrea Sawyer have been territorial candidates directors for almost two years now. What’s the best thing about it?
I’m so energised when I see people responding to God’s call. It’s a privilege to be involved at such a significant time in their lives as they seek God’s will and have a deep desire to discern his purpose for them as individuals here on planet Earth. To walk with them and give them help and encouragement, so that they can be in exactly the place God wants them to be.
What are your hopes for future spiritual leadership in the Army?
I thank God for the rich diversity of fulltime ministry that there is today, but specific spiritual leadership is needed. My hope, desire and prayer is that people will see this, exercise faith and discover and enjoy pursuing God’s will and purpose for their lives. I pray that people will have the courage of their convictions. And that people apply common sense to searching for their calling. If you’re in the Army and passionate about wanting to make a difference for Jesus, if you have a desire to love God and love others with all your heart, then it makes perfect sense that God could want you to be a spiritual leader within the Army. If it is the right way for you, doors will open. If not, God will show that too. But if you don’t have the conversation with someone, you will never know.
What’s got you excited at the moment?
The past two Design for Life weekends have been incredible – we’ve had more than 30 delegates at each. It’s always an absolute joy to be with people as they discover their spiritual gifts and to be part of worship and significant times of prayer as people encourage each other on their faith and life journeys.
What’s the most disappointing thing for you?
I’m disappointed when I see people not
‘Take your everyday, ordinary life – your sleeping, eating, going-towork, and walkingaround life – and place it before God as an offering’
Romans 12:1 and 2 The Message
reaching their full potential, knowing that they will never be totally fulfilled until they have the courage and faith to let go and let God. I have come across people who live with a ‘niggling regret’ that they never took the step of faith towards specific spiritual leadership, including officership. Of course, God still uses them and blesses them, but in their hearts and minds there’s always that niggling question: What if…?
What would you say to anyone exploring spiritual leadership?
Talk with other people. Your corps officer, someone at your DHQ, a colleague or friend, or contact the Candidates Unit – you can email us at vocation@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Think about the people who inspire you, the leaders who impact you positively by what they do and who they are. Then ask yourself: could I do that? The answer is no, not in your own strength, but with God all things are possible! Let’s have some risk-taking, faith-leaping, courageous followers of Jesus step out and see where Jesus leads us together. There is an exciting future ahead for so many people – what does yours look like?
Salvationist 11 May 2024 14
INTERVIEW
ANNIVERSARY
Celebrating 145 years in Scotland
GLASGOW CITY CENTRE
ANNIVERSARY events celebrating 145 years of Army ministry in Scotland began on Saturday evening with a music festival by Govan Songsters, Crescendo Choir and the host corps community band. Marking the anniversary, a variation arrangement of the Scottish tune ‘Kelvingrove’ was played at the end of the interval. Majors Matt and Sarah Butler (Bognor Regis) led Sunday morning worship, with Major Matt speaking on biblical figures called by God for specific purposes. The congregation was challenged to embrace God’s individual and collective calling on their lives and to understand their roles in God’s ongoing mission for the Army.
Blessed with sunshine, an 80-strong group comprising members from Bellshill, Clydebank, Glasgow City Centre, Govan and Paisley Citadel Corps, plus the divisional youth sections, marched the two miles to George Square. Corps officers led the way with Commissioner Keith Banks and two corps flags. The massed band played marching favourites and the timbrelists of Govan brought a sense of spectacle. Once at George Square, an open-air meeting included items from the youth chorus and massed band. Salvationists engaged in conversation with members of the public and children coloured in sheets that spoke of the history and purpose of the Army.
The corps is thankful for all those who made the celebrations such a wonderful event that gave energy to all to be affirmed in evangelism of this kind. – SG
NORTH SHIELDS Maundy Thursday included a Passover meal and evening reflection. On Good Friday, the corps joined the community and other churches in a walk of witness, followed by an emotional meeting thanking the Saviour. On Easter Day, the corps held a sunrise service at Tynemouth Priory before breakfast at the hall and a celebration meeting rejoicing in the truth that Jesus is alive. Hallelujah! – SC
SHEFFIELD CITADEL Corps folk attached Scripture to 625 Cadbury Creme Eggs and distributed them to commuters on Maundy Thursday. Throughout Holy Week, three crosses were erected, with the central cross covered in daffodils on Easter Day. Following morning worship, the band played music at the cross, reminding the community of the risen Lord. – VS
Salvationist 11 May 2024 15
Birkenhead corps folk get stuck into Growing God’s Creation, a new community gardening club
Jonathan Tansley’s Lego flowers and Ann Holt’s knitted flowers decorate Shaw Corps at Easter
EASTER
ENVIRONMENT
EASTER
ARMY UPDATES
EASTER
EASTER
FAVERSHAM Easter started with a Maundy Thursday meal ‘at the table’ with members and friends of the fresh expression. On Good Friday, corps folk participated in the Christians Together in Faversham walk of witness, which included a service in the marketplace. This was followed by a prayer afternoon at the new home of Faversham Salvation Army. On Saturday, 30 families took part in Easter-themed crafts and activities. Easter Day included a short sunrise service on the recreational ground, followed by breakfast and rejoicing in the good news of the day. – JM
EVENT
MAIDSTONE A refreshing Sunday morning meeting combined pastries and praise. Worshippers sat around tables praising and worshipping in song, prayer and conversation with each other over tea, coffee and pastries. Corps officer Captain Jonathan Rouffet prayed: ‘May our conversations be filled with your presence as our bellies are filled with these pastries.’ – GP
EASTER
BIRMINGHAM CITADEL Holy Week began with a visit from the International Staff Band on Palm Sunday. On Tuesday the band and songsters performed a musical Easter repertoire, before a Lent Bible study series on Wednesday. A Maundy Thursday meditation was followed by a Good Friday service and an open-air witness in the city centre. On Easter Day, corps members met for breakfast followed by worship. – RO
FUNDRAISING
RUSHDEN Corps Treasurer Graeme Scott raised £1,045 for the Centenary Wing of Kettering Hospital by auctioning seven framed Northampton Town FC shirts. Graeme is currently receiving treatment for bowel and colon cancer at the hospital. He told Northamptonshire Telegraph: ‘They can’t do enough for me, so I felt it was appropriate to raise funds that could benefit the staff and patients there.’ – AR
COMMUNITY
WREXHAM Sarah Atherton MP visited the corps to see how its Employment Programme is using council funding awarded last year. The corps received £49,944 as part of the Shared Prosperity Fund, which has helped the service to support up to 60 people who have been out of work for a long time. Sarah spoke with those who have benefited from the programme, many of whom are military veterans. ‘Their unwavering dedication to breaking down barriers to employment is commendable,’ she commented. – AR
EASTER
LEIGH-ON-SEA Well-attended Holy Week meetings took place each evening, commencing on Monday with Divisional Area Officer Major Jo Justice leading thoughts into the week ahead. On Tuesday, the band and songsters provided music, and, on Wednesday, Margaret Parkhill led Easter reflections. On Maundy Thursday, Major Graham Slader (THQ) arranged areas to contemplate the significance of Easter. On Good Friday morning, Lieut-Colonel George Pilkington led the congregation through the Stations of the Cross. Easter Day commenced with a service on the seafront, followed by breakfast at the hall, before a meeting led by corps officers Captains Clare and Robert Davis. – PJ
Salvationist 11 May 2024 16
SOUTHEND CITADEL Corps folk gathered at 6.15am in Southend Cliff Gardens on Easter Day for the first sunrise service held for many years. They reflected on words from Matthew 28:6. – NB
EASTER
ARMY UPDATES
CATFORD
RANGARIRAI Ibezi was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Majors Michael and Rebecca Eden on Palm Sunday. Ranga first came to the corps as part of an event for The TeamCaro Foundation, which is a cancer charity founded by soldier Sharon Paul. Ranga started to re-engage with her faith, encouraged by Sharon and welcomed by so many in the corps, and soon decided that soldiership was the right step for her. Having completed a spiritual gifts survey, Ranga testified: ‘I am very excited about getting involved in the work of the corps.’ The service included hymns and songs from Zimbabwe, reflecting Ranga’s cultural and spiritual roots. She is pictured with Majors Michael and Rebecca, Patience Maponga and Sharon Paul. – ME
NOTTINGHAM WILLIAM BOOTH MEMORIAL HALLS
LEAH Longwa was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Majors Julia and Robert Jepson. University student Leah’s Salvationist parents were present to encourage her as she gave an amazing testimony with humour and confidence, explaining to us all how she came to know the reality of Jesus in her life. – RJ
Walker was welcomed as an adherent, Rosemary Wiltshire was enrolled as a soldier and Jacob was enrolled as a junior soldier by corps officer Major David Wise. Rosemary, who was raised in the Army, shared Proverbs 3:6. After spending 50 happy years with her family at another church, upon its closure and the loss of her husband, she knew it was time to return to her Army roots, having faithfully kept the promises she originally signed. – KT
ILFORD
TEMI and her daughter, Barbara, were enrolled as soldiers on Easter Day by corps officer Major Ruth Gray. – RG
TEDDINGTON
MEGAN Hennings was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer
Lieutenant Emily Watson. Megan shared testimony about her experience of belonging at the Army. – EW
Salvationist 11 May 2024 17 NEW COMMITMENTS
SUSANNE
BATH CITADEL
ARMY PEOPLE
Wedding anniversaries
Blue Sapphire (65 years)
DAVID AND PAMELA
SNOWLING , Ipswich Citadel, on 16 May
BANDSMAN GEOFF AND PAM JORDAN, Chelmsford, on 16 May
Emerald (55 years)
YOUNG PEOPLE’S
TREASURER JEN AND BANDSMAN LES
PALFREMAN, Staple Hill, on 10 May
Dedicated to God
ZOE AWAJI, daughter of Blessing and Buchi Awaji, at Risca by Major Kingsley Layton
Promoted to Glory
DENNIS VERSEY, Felixstowe
TREVOR CHERRINGTON, Dudley
COMMISSIONER FRANK FULLARTON from Glebe Court Care Home on 23 April
Bereaved
OLWEN CHERRINGTON, Dudley, of her husband Trevor Cherrington, Helen Mason of her father
COLONELS DEREK AND MARY ELVIN of their son
Mark Elvin, Major Rebecca Eden, Catford, Louise Finch, Bromley Temple, and Andrew Elvin of their brother
COMMISSIONER
ROSEMARIE FULLARTON of her husband Commissioner Frank Fullarton
Retirements from active service
Effective 1 May
LIEUT-COLONEL ALAN
READ, out of Newcastle Byker in 1980 and last appointment Secretary for Business Administration, THQ
MAJOR DARREN SHAW, out of Wood Green in 1999 and last appointment Scunthorpe
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Sun 12 May ICO (Spiritual Day)
Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill Fri 17 May ICO (Farewell Meeting)
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Sun 12 May Doncaster (Installation of Divisional Commander Major Alec Still and Assistant Divisional Commander Major Caroline Heward)
Sun 19 May Derby Central
Wed 22 May THQ (Procurement Supplier Conference) Wed 22 May – Thu 23 May Salvation Army Homes Board of Directors* Thu 23 May William Booth College (Graduation Ceremony)**
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Thu 23 May William Booth College (Graduation Day)
*Commissioner Paul Main only
**Commissioner Jenine Main only
NOTICES
Living Well Together Webinar: Same-Sex Relationships and The Salvation Army
Register for the latest webinar from the Moral and Social Issues Council, taking place at 7.30pm on 20 May. This panel conversation will seek to help Salvationists in the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory think about how we can live with differing theological perspectives on same-sex relationships. Find out more and register at salvationist.org.uk/living-well-together
Together 2024: Life Stories art exhibition
Take part in a new project to share your life story in a creative way by doodling, painting or sketching in a secondhand book. The work you create will be part of the art exhibition at Together 2024. Find out how you and your corps can get involved by emailing music@ salvationarmy.org.uk
Helping-Hand Appeal: The Singing Mermaid
This new children’s resource uses the story of The Singing Mermaid by Julia Donaldson to introduce the issue of human trafficking to children and shares how they can help to raise awareness and pray about it. Download it at salvationist.org.uk/resources/helping-handappeal-2024
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Territorial Candidates Director Major Mark Sawyer leads this week’s Sunday Worship, with a message from Captain Berri McKenna (William Booth College). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Evening Jazz with Richard Mingay
Major Richard Mingay (William Booth College) shares the good news through his love of jazz and gospel music. The episode is broadcast at 7pm on Sunday 12 May and repeated in full at 9pm on Friday 17 May.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
Salvationist 11 May 2024 18
ANNOUNCEMENTS
EXETER TEMPLE, FRIARS GATE, EXETER EX2 4AZ
RE-DEDICATION OF THE HALL
FORMAL REOPENING ON COMPLETION OF EXTENSIVE BUILDING WORKS
Saturday 1 June
3.30pm: Visit the building and view displays
6.45pm: Official re-dedication and opening by divisional leaders Majors Paul and Gillian Billard 7pm – 8.15pm: Thanksgiving and celebration meeting
Sunday 2 June
10.30am: Meeting led by our divisional leaders
Please refer to the corps website for details salvationarmy.org.uk/exeter-temple
DUDLEY CORPS, NORTH STREET, DUDLEY DY2 7DT RETIREMENT CELEBRATION FOR MAJORS LIZ & IVAN OLIVER
Sunday 7 July, 10.30am, led by Majors Cliff & Joy Allchin
Video greetings and messages to Major Cliff Allchin cliff.allchin@salvationarmy.org.uk
BELLSHILL BAND
MUSIC FOR A SUMMER’S EVENING AND CENTENARY FINALE CONCERT
Guest soloist Tom Hutchinson
Principal Cornet of the Cory Band and Besson Artist
Saturday 8 June, 7pm, at Uddingston Old Parish Church G71 7HF Concert tickets £10 ticketsource.co.uk/bsab-tickets
MARKET RASEN CORPS, JOHN STREET, MARKET RASEN LN8 3HH
BLACK DYKE BAND
PRESENTS
WORLD CLASS BRASS
Saturday 15 June, 7pm (doors open 6.30pm) Market Rasen Methodist Church, Chapel Street LN8 3AG
Tickets £15
Call Terence Carpenter on 07948 998507, visit ticketsource.co.uk/ event/t-jzlqpxm or visit the Market Rasen SA charity shop
IPSWICH CITADEL, 558 WOODBRIDGE ROAD, IPSWICH IP4 4PH A CONCERT
BY REGENT HALL BAND
Bandmaster Paul Sharman
Saturday 29 June, 7pm Entry £5 on door – under-16s free
All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion. For more details email advertising@ salvationarmy.org.uk.
CHARMING HOLIDAY COTTAGE BY THE SEA, LOOE, CORNWALL
Seafront parking, stairlift avail if req’d, sleeps 2 to 8, pets welcome, open all year. For a free colour brochure by post/email call 0800 334 5609 anytime or email us at cornishdreamslooe@gmail.com
ADVERTS
salvationist.org.uk/events • Online discussions • Music and creative arts • Inspiring conferences • Territorial networks Dates worth remembering. The salvationist.org.uk events hub is the go-to place for upcoming events and gatherings.
The go-to digital space for everyone linked to The Salvation Army salvationist.org.uk Devotions Courses Resources Articles Events Media