The Salvation Army and me

All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army. We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves. This week… ‘‘Take my life and let it be Consecrated, Lord, to thee; Take my moments and my days, Let them flow in ceaseless praise’’

(SASB 623)

DI BENNETT

HULL ICEHOUSE

How did you first come into contact with the Army?

During the Second World War my foreman at the pickle factory was also the corps sergeant-major at Hull Icehouse. He invited officers to come and speak to the girls in the factory. I initially only went the first time to tell them that we weren’t coming. However, it looked exciting and I ended up attending the torchbearer youth club. Through that I attended a Sunday meeting.

What made you want to become a soldier?

The Holy Spirit compelled me to be penitent and then after soldiership training I became a soldier.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

Nothing. Everything changes. Sometimes it’s good, sometimes it falls flat, but if we didn’t bother we wouldn’t get anywhere.

What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics?

I would be a runner. I nearly represented Yorkshire when I was at school but I struggled with my joints.

What do you do in your spare time?

Even though I am 96 years old I still like to get on my exercise bike!

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

It was two records of Laurence Olivier reading some of the Old Testament.

What is your favourite Bible passage and why?

Psalm 139 means a lot to me. I read it at my mum’s funeral.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

I have two: ‘Take My Life and Let It Be’ (SASB 623) and ‘All Through the Years His Providence Has Led Me’ (SASB 826).

All through the years his providence has led me, His abounding goodness has been all my song; All through the years I tell his love and mercy, Singing Ebenezer as the years roll on.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

It’s not for me to say really because God is in charge.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

If I get myself a bit upset, the Lord says to me, ‘Shut up and get on your bike!’ I do what he says and get on my exercise bike and begin to feel much better.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

My Bible.

Something interesting that people might want to know about you is…

I’ve been a soldier for 80 years this year.