Salvationist 13 apr 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 13 April 2013 // No. 1393 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Pages 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 14

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and picture caption competition 5. – 9. & 19. NEWS Anglia // Southampton Sholing // Guernsey // Bangor // South Woodham Ferrers // Sunderland Millfield // Parkhead // Birmingham Citadel // Chandler’s Ford // Exeter Temple // Corby // Harwich // Bedford Congress Hall // William Booth College // Paisley Citadel // Horsham // Bishop’s Stortford // Exmouth // Hastings Citadel // Southend Southchurch // Southend Citadel // Lurgan // Dunstable // Maidenhead // Skewen // Williamstown // 8.

12. – 14.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10. REVIEW True Feelings by Michael Jensen 10. FEATURE High notes and highlights 11. My first hero

FEATURE

12. – 14. FEATURE The Salvation Army and work for all 15. BIBLE STUDY The cost of following 16. & 17. NEW COMMITMENTS

18. & 19. ANNOUNCEMENTS Army people, engagements and tributes 20.

LETTERS

21. – 23.

ADVERTS

24.

THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated 2

Salvationist 13 April 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

HAVE YOUR SAY HAVE you noticed how often, as a consumer, you are asked: ‘How are we doing?’ This question may turn up on a till receipt, with a service provision, on a warranty or through a phone call, text or email. Do you ignore it or respond? In the past I may have spoken up if I found a service to be either very poor or very good, but now I am being asked to comment when previously I may have said nothing. I wonder why anyone would really want to know what I think. I suppose it might be to improve quality, or encourage the workforce, but there again, it could be to promote a product and increase sales. If I choose to complete a customer survey I would like to think that what I have to say will give the service provider the information needed to improve what they are doing and avoid complacency. Feedback is important because we don’t always see ourselves as others do. I was reminded of this recently when I read Damian Thompson’s On Saturday feature in The Daily Telegraph. He wrote about the actions of activists who had targeted The Salvation Army and others involved in the mandatory work activity scheme. Read about it on page 4. Having highlighted the Army’s key role in social justice from its earliest days, he concluded, ‘the brave, tireless and much-mocked Sally Army – quietly go about their business of helping the poor’. On pages 12 to 14 Commissioner Clive Adams has more to say about mandatory work activity. He also delves into Army history and highlights the Founder’s belief in work for all to bring Victorian England out of poverty. He translates this into the needs of today, saying that ‘the current work scheme is part of an historical mission focus grounded in our very origins’. I am thankful for Christian leaders who, with God-given

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist (fax) 020 7367 4691 EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894

wisdom, speak out during turbulent times. Archbishop Welby in his Easter Day message warned against hero leader culture and challenged the thinking that somehow one man could solve all the Church’s problems. He said that pinning hopes on individuals in politics or public life is always a mistake. Wrong expectations inevitably lead to disappointment. The two disciples on the road to Emmaus couldn’t hide their disappointment when they said of Jesus: ‘We had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.’ Their expectations were wrong, it was the ‘stranger’ who walked along with them who challenged their thinking and taught them what the Scriptures said. When Christ draws near his own today, The fullness of his power to give, The Holy Spirit makes him known, And by his life we all may live. (SASB 102)

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

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DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael – (tel) 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881

A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2013. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 13 April 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS THE SALLY ARMY AND THE BOLSHIE BRIGADE

An old lady rang the buzzer outside the Salvation Army headquarters in Elephant and Castle, London. They opened the door for her because she seemed in need of help and the Sally Army doesn’t turn people away. But the old lady was not what she appeared: she was a decoy for Boycott Workfare, a gang of Left-wing activists who were hiding behind her. As soon as the door was opened, they burst into the HQ in order to ‘occupy’ it. The Salvation Army’s crime? It employs benefit recipients who are required to do work experience as a route back to employment. This… scheme means they help the charity for a maximum of four weeks – and some of them are so impressed by its Christian witness that they stay on as volunteers while they find real jobs. In the eyes of Boycott Workfare, however, The Salvation Army is ‘collaborating’ in a Tory conspiracy to exploit benefit claimants. Hence their charming oldlady decoy trick… What a telling contrast: between professional whingers who exploit the poor for political entertainment and

Christians who go out onto the streets to feed them, clothe them – and help them find work. Boycott Workfare is not fit to tie the bootlaces or shake the tambourine of a Salvation Army member. This small denomination is one of the jewels of British Christianity… Who created Britain’s first labour exchange? Not socialist politicians, but General William Booth… The General also started a ‘farm colony’ to teach the unemployed agricultural skills. Moreover, Salvationists opened the first factory making safety matches – that is, matches that no longer contained the deadly yellow phosphorus that turned the faces of factory workers green before killing them with bone cancer. They also campaigned to raise the age of consent, so that 13-year-old girls could no longer be legally raped… This Easter, members of The Salvation Army [opened] a food bank in Easterhouse… The true anti-poverty campaigners – the brave, tireless and much-mocked Sally Army – quietly go about their business of helping the poor. The Daily Telegraph

TUTU WINS £1.1 MILLION FOR SPIRITUAL WORK Desmond Tutu has been awarded the world’s largest cash prize for his work advancing the spiritual principles of love and forgiveness... The former Archbishop of Cape Town has won the £1.1 million Templeton Prize, given to those who ‘expand our vision of human purpose’… Archbishop Tutu said: ‘When you are in a crowd and you stand out from the crowd it’s usually because you are being carried on the shoulders of others. I want to accept this prize in a representative capacity.’ The Times

PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION Staff members John O’Donnell and Jeanette Moar dress up as the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts for a themed tea party at Davidson House Care Home, Edinburgh. Send your suggested captions for this picture to salvationist@salvationarmy .org.uk with the subject line ‘Picture caption competition’, or by post to Salvationist, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. A selection of the best captions will be printed in Salvationist next month.

Salvationist 13 April 2013

NEWS Territorial leaders inspire acts of rededication ANGLIA TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams led the divisional celebration at Peterborough Citadel, Ipswich Citadel and Norwich Citadel using the theme Going Deeper – With An Enthused Army. In her address Commissioner Marianne Adams spoke with passion, fervour and encouragement. Music sections from across the division participated, including the newly-formed Divisional Youth Chorus. A celebration of new soldiers, adherent members and junior soldiers was a highlight of the weekend and some amazing testimonies were shared. On Saturday evening at Peterborough Citadel, the TC shared how the Army needs to ‘be strong about God’s work; be strong about God’s word and be strong about God’s witness’. Using a passage from Joshua 1, he spoke passionately about the need for every soldier to be fully engaged and the obligation that each must feel to be fully committed. On Sunday morning at Ipswich Citadel Commissioner Marianne Adams broached the need for healthy, warm fellowships that had healthy, holy habits as exampled in Acts 2. At Norwich Citadel the TC urged those present to be ‘a praying Army, a pure Army and an Army with open eyes and open ears to the world in which God has placed us’. As the invitation was given, many people responded and knelt at the mercy seat in acts of rededication. – C. A. At Bangor Corps Treasurer Fredi Wray receives a certificate ofi service from corps officeri Captain Gordon Tucker. Hisi retirement marks 56 years as ai local officeri

The territorial leaders with Divisional Commander Major David Jackson

Island musicians unite GUERNSEY MUSICIANS from St Helier, Alderney, St Peter Port and L’Islet

united for the Channel Islands Musicians Weekend, led by Divisional Bandmaster Stephen Smith and Majors Ian and Yvonne Field. On Friday the delegates met for a meal and informal fellowship.

SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING: The host band joined with Southsea Band for a partnership festival to raise funds for Southampton City Mission. Each band contributed individual items as well as massed items, including the classic marches ‘Rosehill’ and ‘The Fount’ and the evocative ‘Procession To Covenant’. The musicians joined together to sing ‘It Took A Miracle’. Chris Davis (Southampton City Mission) explained initiatives in the area to help those in need. – B. E.

On Saturday delegates divided into their respective rehearsals (brass, mixed vocal and ladies voices) in preparation for the evening music festival. Using the theme Jubilate, all sections participated during the festival, enjoyed by a capacity congregation. On Sunday the musicians led the congregation in worship using the theme Praise. Stephen Smith (oboe) played the inspiring ‘Gabriel’s Oboe’. Later the delegates and leaders shared in fellowship over lunch before ending the weekend with a praise meeting. – J. H. SOUTH WOODHAM FERRERS: Members of surrounding corps braved the cold weather to attend the annual United Service Of Praise, organised by home league members. Major Amanda Slader (DHQ) led the Bible address and Hadleigh Temple Silver Timbrelists entertained those present. – O. A. Salvationist 13 April 2013

NEWS Inspiring band weekend SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD A CAPACITY congregation welcomed Fanfara Band for a Saturday evening concert, commencing the band weekend. The programme played to a wide variety of musical tastes, including ‘Excelsior’ and ‘Soli Deo Gloria’. Glyn Griffiths presented the trumpet solo ‘Blessed Assurance’. On Sunday morning, guest leader Jeanette Griffiths (Liverpool Walton) drew on the song ‘In The Love Of Jesus’ for her message. The final meeting concluded with the festival march ‘Ambassadors’. – R. B. /E. F.

Colourful YP annual PARKHEAD DIVISIONAL Youth Officers Captains Graeme and Wendy Parkhill led YP annual weekend with the theme The Colours Of Salvation. On Saturday, children gathered to bake cookies and assemble Red Nose boxes before watching a film. The Sunday morning meeting included items from the learners band and the YP prizegiving ceremony. After the meeting the children sold the cookies baked the night before and raised £65 for Red Nose Day. In the evening the congregation was asked to write prayers and place them on a sun placard. – A. D.

Seventeen children perform a musical telling the story of Jonah with ‘Out Of The Ark’ music for a half-term drama week at Exeter Temple, led by Keith Turton (THQ)

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL: The Bishop of Aston, the Right Rev Andrew Watson, launched his book The Way Of The Desert. Later 20 students from Birmingham Conservatoire delighted the congregation with praise and worship to enhance the meeting. – F. C. CHANDLER’S FORD: Solent Fellowship Band presented a concert at the Methodist church. The event raised nearly £900 for the children’s work at the church. – T. U. 6

Salvationist 13 April 2013

Charity walker Andy Peddle poses with Deputy Mayor Councillor Dave McLeod, Town Crier James Cole, corps officer Lieutenant Andrew Jarrold and Major George Warren on his way through Harwich, raising £234; later, Andy Peddle reaches the halfway point at

Andy stopped at Dereham for the night before

Corby on his epic charity walkathon

continuing his journey

NEWS General leads anniversary celebrations BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL THROUGHOUT the 125th corps anniversary weekend led by General Linda Bond, God’s Spirit moved in people’s hearts, with many making a public response. The Mayor of Bedford (Councillor Dave Hodgson) welcomed the General to the town at a civic reception on Saturday afternoon. He spoke about his knowledge and experience of The Salvation Army. General Bond explained that the Army’s mission is in response to the love of Christ. In moving moments the General prayed for God to give the mayor wisdom and strength in his plans and care for the people of the town. In the evening the General was guest of honour at a corps reception and meal. She spoke to the people about the significance of their history and how it informs the present and gives direction. As well as presenting a wider view of the Army, the General challenged everyone to prepare themselves for the future – proud of their heritage and ready to engage in Christ’s mission today. God’s presence was felt during the Sunday morning meeting as the General powerfully proclaimed Christ. The children sang ‘There Is Something Today In The House Of The Lord’, waving flags and shaking pompoms as they greeted the General. After the meeting the General met the youth of the corps (top). She prayed with them and shared words of encouragement and challenge. She also spoke with visitors to the corps meal programme for homeless people. The evening meeting brought another clear and challenging message from the General, with people making a visible response in prayer. – A. R.

Fulfilled! WILLIAM BOOTH......... COLLEGE.................... CHIEF Secretary Colonel David Hinton and Colonel Sylvia Hinton led Exploring Leadership Day, an annual event that allows people to examine their calling to Christian leadership as officers and local officers. The morning meeting (above) included lively worship and encouraging testimonies from Cadets Ben Selfe and Emma Heal, who spoke about their calling. In his message, Colonel Hinton used Joshua 1:1-9 to challenge the congregation to be committed to the word of God and his claim on their lives. Many responded by kneeling in consecration at the mercy seat. Following lunch, a teaching session further explored themes

around leadership and concluded with an open discussion, led by the Chief Secretary. Later, delegates chose to take part in two seminars for the afternoon. Options included Life As A Cadet, Life As A Territorial Envoy, Leading A Cell Group,

International Development, Anti-Human Trafficking, Social And Moral Issues, Street Pastors and Learning To Think Theologically. The day concluded with a final meeting in which children of participants shared their experiences of the day. – M. W.

PAISLEY CITADEL: The Scottish Fellowship Band presented an evening concert. Items included ‘Ein Feste Burg’ and ‘Keep Singing’. The band sang ‘By His Hand’ and vocal and instrumental solos enhanced the evening. – M. L.

musicals. Former corps officers Major Kevin and Captain Catherine Rand (Norton) led Sunday meetings. – V. J.

HORSHAM: A Saturday night concert by Croydon Citadel Band commenced the 126th corps anniversary weekend. Bandmaster Iain Parkhouse humorously led the event, which included a wide variety of music from classics to

SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING: The band and songsters participated in an evening of nostalgia at Bitterne United Reformed church by looking back at musicals, including Gowans and Larsson presentations. The band accompanied singalongs and played ‘Jesus Folk’. The songsters contributed ‘They Shall Come From The East’. – B. E. Salvationist 13 April 2013

NEEDED 4 APRIL

NEWS Young musicians from Hendon, Croydon Citadel and Enfield take part in a festival at Bishop’s Stortford; Bandmaster Don Jenkins is pictured with Thomas Nielsen (and from left to right) Kristen Nielsen, Naomi Moir, Alice Hardwick and Isobel Daws. Those present were enthralled by the talent and witness of the young people

WEEK 7 Monday 15 April Mark 3 – Jesus heals on the Sabbath, is recognised by more evil spirits and calls the Twelve O Why do you think Jesus gave the evil spirits strict orders not to reveal who he was? O Test yourself. Can you name the 12 disciples?

Exmouth and District Rotary Club President Keith Turner presents a cheque for £500 to Major Steven Watson (Exmouth), to be used for the Exmouth Community Larder

Tuesday 16 April Mark 4 – Jesus uses parables to teach and demonstrates his authority over nature O Can you think of cultures, or individuals who fall into each of the categories listed in the parable of the sower? Wednesday 17 April Mark 5 – Jesus casts out demons, heals a woman and brings a dead girl back to life! O Why do you think Jesus asked the name of the evil spirit within the possessed man? Didn’t he know it? O Can you imagine the impact in the area of 2,000 pigs drowning? Thursday 18 April Mark 6 – John the Baptist is beheaded, Jesus feeds the five thousand O Do you recognise the ways in which God uses those closest to you? (vv1–6) O Jesus not only met, but also overwhelmingly surpassed the needs of the five thousand. What can you learn for yourself from this event?

Ilford Worship Group participate in the Sunday evening meeting at Southend Citadel 8

Salvationist 13 April 2013

Friday 19 April Mark 7 – Jesus explains the need to challenge tradition that obscures God’s will O Are there traditions within the Church and society that seem good but are in danger of obstructing your relationship with God?

NEWS HASTINGS CITADEL: Along with other churches in the area, the corps set up a night shelter during the winter months. The initiative received positive feedback from the surrounding community and night shelter residents wishing to change their lives. – B. N. SOUTHEND SOUTHCHURCH: The newly re-formed Rayleigh YP Band and Singing Company led the morning meeting themed God Is Love. Through music, testimonies and prayer the young people shared what God’s love means to them. Corps folk were greatly blessed by their visit. – Y. A.

Southend Citadel hosts a Last Night of the Proms event with music sections from Leigh-on-Sea and the citadel participating, raising £570 for the beaver and cub scouts

Scintillating music helps celebrate band anniversary LURGAN UNDER the leadership of Bandmaster Kenneth Briggs, the band celebrated its 121st anniversary with a weekend of music and worship featuring guest soloist Stephen Kane (euphonium, Bristol Easton) and Friends Singers, a choir from Friends School, Lisburn. Stephen delighted the congre-

gation at the Saturday night festival with his interpretation and scintillating performances of ‘Canaan’s Land’, ‘Glorious

Ventures’ and ‘That’s The Spirit’, a solo especially written for the weekend by Stephen’s father, Derick Kane (Bexleyheath. Stephen displayed his versatility with a sensitive rendition of the melodic ‘Little Prayer’. The band’s main contribution

to the evening was ‘Turris Fortissima’ as well as the golden oldie ‘Montreal Citadel’. Friends Singers presented a variety of popular songs and their musical excellence and youthful enthusiasm were recognised by all. The celebrations continued on Sunday as Bandsmen Albert Clark, Ian Power, Harold Johnston and Bernard Donaldson (pictured) were presented with 50-year long-service awards. Lauren Stevenson was commissioned as a bandswoman and John Murdock as deputy bandmaster. The weekend concluded with a celebratory festival on Sunday evening when Stephen enthralled the congregation with ‘The Song Of The Brother’. – P. J.

Students from Central Bedfordshire College, with tutor Norman Herbert, present a cheque for £60 to Dunstable corps officer Major Carol Evans and centre manager Charmian Knightley; the

Harpenden YP sections delight Maidenhead corps folk with

students raised the money through selling cakes, Easter eggs

music; in the morning meeting the youngsters shared their

and baby clothes

favourite Bible heroes Salvationist 13 April 2013

REVIEW and FEATURE

EXPLORING EMOTIONS AND CHRISTIANITY Major Brian Slinn (Bromley Temple) reviews True Feelings by Michael Jensen THIS book is for those interested in pastoral theology and psychology, presented as a series of essays exploring the place and role of emotions within the Christian life. The contributors are all Christian academics and its approach crosses a wide range of disciplines – emotion is held like a prism and viewed from a number of different angles. From the opening sermon, where the role of emotion is challenged by scriptural exegesis, the place of emotional intelligence is explored and its validity tested alongside psychological insights into the value of emotional response within faith. Theologically there is an interesting investigation of the emotions attributed

to the Trinity. The question as to whether God has feelings leads to what may seem an obvious conclusion when modelled by Jesus and perfected in the human experience by the Holy Spirit. Against the question of the immutability of God and his transcendence, these are helpful journeying within the purpose of this book. Not surprisingly, allowing that humankind holds the Imago Dei, human emotion is viewed phenomenologically within theological anthropology and the search for what it means to be human. The connection made with puritan and modernist rationality helps this investigation in recognising the undergirding of the experiential as an essential in making faith real in each era. Following progressive theory, the declaration of the gospel in a postmodern world where ‘reason is now dominated by feelings’ is examined by Rhys Bezzant; as a ‘fellow traveller’ he asks, ‘Is emotion in the Christian life really so dangerous?’

HIGH NOTES AND HIGHLIGHTS by Staff Songster Kevin Fenton-Herring (Regent Hall) THROUGHOUT the 21 years that I have been a staff songster, I have become increasingly aware of the many people whose lives have been transformed through the ministry of the ISS. A recent visit to Greenock was no exception. Corps officers Captains Alistair and Lucy Mann took an enormous leap of faith when they hired the 500-seat Beacon Arts Centre for the Saturday evening festival. Commissioner Keith Banks was in the congregation and explains more: ‘It was a “house full” night and the capacity audience was treated to an evening of outstanding choral quality and individual musical excellence. This was a concert worthy of any stage. The varied songs and items kept the full attention of the audience and each item only whetted the appetite for more. ‘The ISS demonstrated how they have mastered the art of combining the highest choral standards with an enthusiastic yet relaxed style. More than that, this concert was unmistakably Army. God was given his place: his greatness was joyfully praised, his love convincingly communicated and 10

Salvationist 13 April 2013

The power of music in worship is declared, as is the power of the narrative, again a post-modern theme. Storytelling and its power to move people is recognised as a tool of the gospel and also applied psychotherapeutically within pastoral counselling in allowing individuals to ‘re-story’ their lives. Here is the attraction of this book – with a theological and psychological grounding, insights are given into so many areas of human behaviour offering redemptive possibilities when applied pastorally. As it should, this book offers critical analysis of its subject and acknowledges the spectrum of possible emotional responses; this includes the pathological and the danger of emotionalism. Nonetheless, within the holism of human experience the value and celebration of emotion is here to be explored within our experience of God. O

True Feelings is available through www.ivpbooks.com (Inter-Varsity Press) at £14.99 and free UK postage

his presence powerfully felt. A number of the songs were themed with Scripture which gave spiritual authority to the programme. The well-chosen words of Executive Officer Lieut-Colonel George Pilkington left no one in any doubt about the meaning of Calvary to all who believe. Unmistakably Army indeed! ‘The programme concluded with the songsters leaving the stage to stand all around the hall, and at all levels, to sing the benediction “The Lord Bless Thee And Keep Thee”. This gesture brought the evening to a spiritual peak. What had been effective connection gently evolved into intimate communication. Two songsters stood to sing very close to my left ear! “The Lord make his face to shine upon you,” they sang. In that sacred moment, he did.’ Keith was not alone in experiencing the Lord’s presence that evening. After the Sunday morning meeting, a woman spoke to one of the staff songsters. She explained that she worked as an usher at the arts centre and had been on duty the night before. Although she had worked at concert halls all her life, she had never been moved by a programme in such a way. As a result she felt compelled to attend Sunday worship at the corps. She left with a collection of ISS CDs – more about that another time – and with a connection to God that she never could have expected. Whether an usher in Greenock, or someone who has returned to faith, there are many stories of transformation when the staff songsters come to town!

FEATURE

MY FIRST HERO by Greg Tuck WAY back in the Seventies, my parents moved to Johannesburg as leaders of The Salvation Army’s training college. I decided to go with them because life for a four-year-old on his own can be tough! Arriving there is one of my earliest memories: the imposing white mansion, a black wrought iron fence, rose bushes and the biggest field I had ever seen. I don’t remember how long we lived there before I met my first sporting nemesis. He was a tall, loud man and wore a beard like a South American revolutionary. He wore three red sergeant stripes on his uniform sleeve. I believe that was an early sign of his leadership story or him showing a sense of style to go with the guitar he played to accompany the small band of cadet singers who stood on every platform or street corner they could find. His skin was darker than that of most people I had met up to that point and he apparently loved to laugh – a lot and loudly. A few weeks after I met him, he challenged me to a game of soccer. Now, by the time I was five, I was pretty good – I could dribble from my mouth and with my feet! And I was fiercely competitive. A soccer challenge, against an old man on my home field? I’m in! The field was massive, at least the size of nearby Ellis Park from where we could hear the rugby cheers on Saturday afternoons as he and others scrubbed the old orange chairs outside week after week. Those were the cleanest chairs in the world! The rules were set: the goal he defended was the full side of the pale green prefab building while mine was two shoes spaced two feet apart. The first to ten goals earned two rand in the South African currency, which then could have bought me fried chips from Little Beaver for a lifetime! To be clear, I didn’t have two rand and had never seen that much money in my life. I’d deal with that problem if I lost. The game started with a flurry, a sprint and hard tackles. I fell, got up and chased him around, kicking the ball and his legs as hard as I could and the more he laughed the more determined I became. With the scores tied, I forced my sweaty little body in my Buck Rogers T-shirt down the sideline, along the porch of the chapel, the site of many victories of other kinds. My final exhausted kick reached the wall and I declared myself the winner. I would have done a victory lap if I hadn’t been so tired and he didn’t have to leave to load the soup into the van for a late-night run for homeless people. And then the moment came. He gave me a short speech about ‘ambition being made of sterner stuff ’ or something like that. He laughed, patted me on the back and handed me two heavy coins. I had won! I was rich! That 45-minute session on that field was childish fun, filled with the smell of grass, activity and the sounds of laughter and shouts. But it was far more than that. As I look back I think of a busy young man, pulled in many directions, taking time to befriend a little boy. Reaching out in relationship, and often down to others whom our society says are beneath them, shows the heart of a hero. I think now of what it is to keep your word. For those two years he never earned a cent as he trained for Salvation Army

ministry and prepared for a life of living with very little. And while two rand probably didn’t change his life, it impacted mine. The heavy coins in my hand told me that heroes keep their word. He was a great athlete. In the following years I got to cheer him on as he stormed in as an opening bowler with more pace than control or scored goals for the football Vanguards in the dubiously named Church League, which reflected Los Angeles street warfare more than hallowed halls of worship. As such, it was hardly fair to have the same size goals or play by the same rules. And so he made it fairer. My target was ten times wider than his. He grew up with dark skin in a society that, at the time, denied him the basic privileges of fair education, equal opportunity or even the choice of where to live and who to marry. He knew deep injustice, but in those playful minutes he levelled the playing field for me. Real heroes fight injustice at every turn, creating opportunities for success for those around them. Life was serious for those two years, but in the midst of classes, theological studies and endless additional duties, there was time for fun. And time to ensure a little boy got to enjoy himself. The same loud laugh I heard with his cadets and staff, I heard on that field. Heroes look for opportunities to bring laughter, joy and a smile to themselves and others, taking time out from their responsibilities because they know balance is important.

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HE’LL FIGHT FOR JUSTICE FOR THE POOR, FOR MINORITIES AND FOR THE OPPRESSED

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Recently, the dark man, without his beard, was installed, with his wife, as the leader of The Salvation Army’s original territory, where he will oversee ministries and programmes that will positively affect millions of people. I assume he will lead from a place of relationship – caring for those around him. He’ll keep his word – even when times are tough. He’ll fight for justice for the poor, for minorities and for the oppressed – knowing firsthand what it is to be bound, then liberated. And he’ll have fun and bring laughter, even in gloomy England and in tough seasons for the territory he leads. I have a lot of heroes – from liberation movements, sports fields and executive office suites. But I will never forget my first hero, who let me win on my home field – Commissioner Clive Adams.

GREG IS DIRECTOR, STAR LAKE CAMP AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, USA Salvationist 13 April 2013

FEATURE

The Salvation Army and work for all by Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams

ROM its very beginnings, The Salvation Army has been concerned with supporting people in gaining access to dignified, meaningful and rewarding employment. Besides being of tremendous value in itself, in regard to helping to restore loss of dignity and purpose, employment often has the added benefit of directly contributing to breaking the recurring cycles of poverty, homelessness and drug or alcohol dependency. Sometimes, rather than sitting back, we have to act – even if this is unpopular with others. For us it is about taking action when we see human need, offering practical support.

We focus on the needs of individuals, trying to understand their needs and concerns and trying to address them and help them achieve their full potential. We look at each person as a whole and, through years of experience, we are convinced that the pessimism that pervades the thinking of those who are trapped in poverty and its consequences can often be lifted by work that nourishes one’s self, one’s soul and, indeed, one’s society. Not everyone would be aware that the cornerstone of General William Booth’s blueprint for lifting Victorian England out of poverty was ‘work for all’. In 1890, in his seminal work In Darkest England And The Way Out he wrote: ‘A man’s labour is not only his capital but his life.

When it passes it returns nevermore. To utilise it, to prevent its wasteful squandering, to enable the poor man to bank it up for use hereafter, this surely is one of the most urgent tasks before civilisation.’ This vision of the Founder has driven The Salvation Army’s engagement in this field – not only in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, but also in a number of other countries where the Army operates. The present work scheme is part of an historical mission focus grounded in our very origins. Partnering with the Government is not unique to this scheme nor is it unique to this territory. The Salvation Army has always partnered others – especially by utilising their resources to drive our

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WE HAVE SEEN FIRST-HAND THE POSITIVE BENEFITS PEOPLE GAIN FROM BEING IN WORK, VOLUNTEERING OR TAKING PART IN A WORKEXPERIENCE PLACEMENT

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gaining work experience, an up-to-date reference and confidence, and enjoying social contact while benefiting their local community. Sam, 24, is a prime example. Sam has a very strong and positive work ethic and is thriving in her placement in Lancashire. Describing the difference it made to her life, she says: ‘It’s been incredible. When I was unemployed I used to get so frustrated and down. Now, having work to go to has given me a sense of purpose. I can’t wait to get up in the mornings and go to work!’ In these tough economic times, the need to support people and help them move closer to employment is so great that if we can help, then we want to be able to do so. We want to give people not the fish but the tools to fish for themselves. Nick was a 23-year-old jobseeker, who found himself at one of our charity shops in Wigan. When he began his four weeks’ mandatory work placement, he arrived in the store seemingly a bit cynical, but by the end of the morning he was much more animated and curious about how the shop worked. A month after his first shift, he was employed – and all because of the positive experience he had had on a mandatory placement with The Salvation Army. We believe in helping the whole person when it comes to the search for employment. Where we can help people to make connections that fit in with the rest of their lives, we do so. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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mission. We can look back on more than a hundred years of working with all governments, regardless of creed or policy, to enable us to help the most vulnerable – and to offer people a hand up out of poverty. From Catherine Booth’s early collections at her preaching assignments with the wealthier classes, which was then spent on William’s work with the poor, to work schemes in several territories today, we have operated in the belief that we need to share the burden of alleviating poverty and meeting need with those who have the means to help. It is our mission to those in need that motivates us. Therefore, like the apostle Paul who was willing to ‘become all things to all people so that by all possible means (he) might save some’ (see 1 Corinthians 9:19–23), we’ll work with anybody who is able to help us in securing work for people and, moving on from temporary work into full employment, allowing people to make the most of their potential. It also means we will work with people who have complex needs and who therefore are hardest to place, because of the amount of support they will need. We have the knowledge, skills and experience to make their time with us a rewarding experience for them. We have seen first-hand the positive benefits people gain from being in work, volunteering or taking part in a workexperience placement – becoming part of a community where they are building their confidence and job skills, and discovering new things about themselves. We have found that people benefit from work-placements through

FEATURE W

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Amy – a single parent of a five-yearold boy – hadn’t worked for ten years. She has just finished a course with us in Kent supporting her with CV writing, interview techniques and looking for work. She told us that we had given her not only these practical skills but also warmth and support that gave her confidence and positivity a real boost. She wants to work to give her son a better future and we managed to find her a placement in the charity that had helped her son medically. She felt this was fantastic as she could give something back to a cause she really believed in and regain her dignity, as she saw it, at the same time. As a Christian organisation, we believe in transformation – the kind of experiences that Sam, Nick and Amy have had are steps towards such transformation. In addition to personal benefit, those involved in a placement at The Salvation Army are more than likely to be helping others – this can be a powerful transformative experience in itself.

sponsored slavery’. The United Nations’ International Labour Organisation’s Forced Labour Convention of 1930 defines slavery as implying ‘ownership’ over an individual. It must be apparent to anyone who bothers to examine this scheme, that this is not the case here. Indeed, we work with many trafficked victims of modern-day slavery and to equate such sinful, inhumane treatment of people with work experience is offensive to those who are truly enslaved. We respect and value the rich diversity of our staff, volunteers and all

had any doubts about the support and welcome they would receive from us or any concerns about what they would be doing. We certainly do not want jobseekers to lose their benefits and would want to talk with any individuals to identify why they have reservations or problems with us, so that these can be addressed. Our history demonstrates our conviction that every person has worth and that it is our desire to help all who are willing to work, irrespective of their starting point. It is something we hope to

people in the communities in which we serve – whatever their age, background, gender, faith, culture, sexual orientation or circumstances. Exploitative and unfair discriminatory employment practices are unacceptable to us as such practices fail to recognise the value and dignity of every individual – a core value of The Salvation Army. We operate from more than 1,000 locations across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, in the form of our churches, social centres, drop-in services and charity shops. Some of our local centres have accepted people on mandatory work activity (MWA) placements from the job centre or from independent welfare-to-work providers. It is our intention that anyone who comes to The Salvation Army will receive assistance based solely on their need and our capacity to provide help. We would be extremely concerned if a person turned down an MWA placement with The Salvation Army because they

continue to demonstrate today, through the various getting-back-intoemployment schemes we operate. Because, ultimately, as General Booth wrote so eloquently over a century ago: ‘Of all heart-breaking toil, the hunt for work is surely the worst.’ Helping people find employment is part of our mission… we have always done it, we are doing it in several countries today and we will continue to do it using every means possible and every resource available to assist those who need our help. Helping others – that’s who we are and that’s what we do!

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THOSE INVOLVED IN A PLACEMENT AT THE SALVATION ARMY ARE MORE THAN LIKELY TO BE HELPING OTHERS – THIS CAN BE A POWERFUL TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE IN ITSELF

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Some may not have understood what the benefits of supporting people back to work actually are and have taken to misinformed rhetoric. It is provocatively inaccurate to say a work experience placement organised via a welfare-towork scheme is the same as ‘state14

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COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS

BIBLE STUDY

The cost of following The first of two studies on discipleship by Captain Kathleen Versfeld

ARTIN Luther said: ‘A religion that gives nothing, costs nothing and suffers nothing, is worth nothing.’ With the warm glow of Easter still upon us, we consider the implications for would-be followers in the 21st century of these words of Jesus: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me’ (Matthew 16:24). For his first-century disciples, the costs of following were high and the consequences grave: Stephen was stoned to death (Acts 7:59); Peter was crucified upside down (John 21:18 and 19); James, the son of Zebedee, was executed with a sword (Acts 12:2); James Alpheus was stoned and then clubbed to death; Andrew and Simon the Zealot were crucified; Matthew and Paul were beheaded. All were willing to die for him – but also to live for him, setting aside their own plans and preferences, exchanging the known and comfortable for the uncertain and painful. Much has changed since those first followers dared to obey his call, but his demands remain just as radical: ‘Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me, is not worthy of me’ (Matthew 10:38). We have become so used to the life-giving grace of Christ’s cross that we cannot begin to comprehend the importance of Jesus’ words concerning the carrying of a personal cross. The suggestion was as shocking to his first-century disciples as a life of deliberate self-denial is to this generation. To a Jew, it was unthinkable that the Messiah would ever follow such a path. Peter responds in typical fashion to the idea: ‘Over my dead body!’ (Or words to that effect.) This is the same Peter who has just experienced a wonderful

moment of personal inspiration as he recognises Jesus as the Christ, the son of the living God. What is striking is how quickly Peter moves from recipient of divine revelation (Matthew 16:17) to stumbling block and agent of Satan (16:23). Our walk with Jesus often involves progression and regression, a moving forward and a slipping back – so watch out! How awful it would be if the Lord were to brand us as a ‘stumbling block’ rather than a blessing in the fulfilment of his Great Commission (Matthew 28:19 and 20). Note the use of the word ‘If’ in Matthew 16:24 (Authorised Version): ‘If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.’ This implies a choice, which we as Salvationists have already made: ‘Called to be disciples of Jesus Christ, The Salvation Army… exists to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity.’

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WE ARE MORE THAN AN ARMY OF CONVERTS; WE HAVE BEEN CALLED TO BE DISCIPLES

path that only we can follow. The specifics will depend on our gifts, skills, opportunities and life’s circumstances, but being obedient will always come with a cost. The call of Jesus to selfdenial is not just for Lent – it’s for life. In all likelihood we will not be called upon to die for our Lord, but he requires that we live for him and not for ourselves. That and nothing less will do. TO CONSIDER you reflect on your own journey, are you merely a convert or a true disciple? Are you moving forwards or backwards? Are you a blessing or a stumbling block in the fulfilment of the Great Commission? O How costly is it for you to follow Jesus and be obedient to his call on your life? O Have you ever had an ‘over my dead body’ moment? O What things in your Christian life and walk get you fired up and ready to fight? O How do you discern whether this is a godly response, or your fallen human nature speaking? O As

Next week, we look at the cost of not following Jesus

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We are more than an Army of converts; we have been called to be disciples. The word ‘disciple’ or ‘disciples’ occurs more than 250 times in the New Testament. A disciple is similar to a modern-day apprentice – someone who follows the teaching of another and learns by listening, watching and then doing. Each of us has a unique calling from God, a work that only we can do and a

CAPTAIN VERSFELD IS CORPS OFFICER, PETERBOROUGH CITADEL Salvationist 13 April 2013

NEW COMMITMENTS

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1. ARTHUR REES Adherent member CWM DURING the all-age worship for Commitment Sunday, Arthur was welcomed as an adherent member by corps leader Territorial Envoy Jo Walters. For his testimony, Arthur sang a solo. – J. W.

Favour, Omotade’s daughter, testified that she loves Jesus because he died for her and is excited to be a member. Omotade, Christine and Favour were welcomed and enrolled by corps officer Major Carol Evans. – J. B.

2. & 3. ANDRIE DRABBLE, EDWARD WALKER Adherent members TENBY CORPS folk welcomed two more members to the fellowship – Andrie and Edward. They were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Major Martyn Clements. – M. C.

7. – 9. SANDRA WOODFORD, ALEX WOODFORD, OPAL THOMPSON Adherent members THORNTON HEATH IMPRESSED by her mother-in-law’s enthusiasm for The Salvation Army, Sandra decided she wanted to be involved too. Her son, Alex, also made a commitment as an adherent member. Opal connected with the Army through volunteering in the community store. Corps officer Major Kathryn Woodhouse welcomed Sandra, Alex and Opal as adherent members. – I. D.

4. – 6. OMOTADE ESO, CHRISTINE EDMUNDS Adherent members FAVOUR EWOFADEJU, ADAM PRYER Junior soldiers DUNSTABLE OMOTADE testified that the support given to her by the corps has helped her find her spiritual home. While living in Africa, Christine prayed hard for a Christian husband and that they would find a church together. She praises God for answered prayer. Supported by their prayer partners, Adam and Favour signed their promises at the mercy seat. Adam, who was enrolled by his godmother Major Michelle Woodhouse (Anglia DHQ) said: ‘I want to be a junior soldier because I want people to know I love Jesus.’ 16

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10. LINDA MALLINSON Adherent member MIRFIELD SEVERAL months ago, Linda came to volunteer in the charity shop. Within a few weeks she was not only attending Sunday worship regularly but also helping out at the parent-and-toddler group. She testifies to the fellowship being a family to her, supporting her through difficult times in her life, including her mother’s death. Linda is eager to know more about God and is keen to tell people what a wonderful difference the Army has made to her life. – J. L.

11. – 13. BETH HILDITCH, JOSHUA ADCOCK Soldiers KICONCO TUTUNGIRE Junior soldier HENDON AS an enthusiastic Salvationist who loves being with people, Beth enjoys expressing her faith in many different ways, including through music and as a young leader at the guides. She testified that she needs to make sure her personal relationship with Jesus is right, and that she is not just following her parents. Beth was enrolled by corps officers Majors Judith and Paul Hilditch. Joshua is a young man who is not afraid to speak his faith and readily shares this with his friends at college. He encourages his friends to attend church and wants to make a difference in the world. Captain Julia Adcock (Barnet), Joshua’s mother, enrolled him as a soldier. Just over a year ago, Kiconco started attending the corps with her family after moving into their home next to the hall. She is a quiet and earnest girl, always wanting to give her best at everything she does. Major Judith Hilditch enrolled Kiconco as a junior soldier. – J. H. 14. PETER BURKE Adherent member BOURNE PETER’S first contact with the corps was through the Cameo group. He started attending the evening meetings and was led to the Lord. Corps officer Major Richard Durrant welcomed him as an adherent member. – C. G. 15. DAVID MacCULLOCH, EVELYN MacCULLOCH Adherent members GOVAN EVELYN, David and their baby daughter Mia were introduced to the

corps through the Musical Tots programme. They began attending Sunday worship and felt the desire to make a firm commitment. Evelyn and David were welcomed as adherent members by corps officers Majors Rita and Robert Pearce. During the same meeting, family and friends witnessed Mia being dedicated to God. – M. W. 16. EMMA MADDERN Soldier COVENTRY CITY MAJORS Graham and Judith Daniels (Sunderland Monkwearmouth) enrolled their niece Emma as a soldier. Supported by family and friends, Emma testified to God’s presence in her life. – C. B. 17. IAN GRIFFITHS Adherent member WREXHAM IAN started attending the corps a few months ago. He enjoyed the worship style and content so much that he expressed interest in adherent membership. Ian participates in many different corps activities and is active in the music sections. Corps officer Major Ian McCredie welcomed Ian as an adherent member. – C. D. 18. JASON GREGORY Adherent member HOVE JASON has been part of the corps for many years, attributing his attendance to corps member Sue Crute’s roast potatoes! Sue, who has since been promoted to Glory, often invited Jason for dinner; she, along with corps folk and the youth fellowship group, offered him stability through his teenage years. Jason testified that it was about time he committed to God. He is pictured with corps officers Captains Doug and Michelle Hayter. – M. H.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O CSM Margaret Drury, Parkgate O YPBL Charlotte Whitbread, Harlow LONG-SERVICE AWARD Bramwell Clark, Harlow (65 years)

O Bandsman/Songster

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Platinum (70th): O Leonard and Wyn Fullbrook, Reading Central (24 April) Diamond: O Cliff and Sheila Harries, Swindon Citadel (18 April) DEDICATED TO GOD Ted, son of Richard and Jo Davies, at Swindon Citadel by Captain Stephen Oliver O Harry, son of Matthew and Jessica James, at Staple Hill by Major Ian Urmston O Lowri Ruth, daughter of Will and Naomi Beddoes, at Coedpoeth by Major Teresa Harris O James

BEREAVED Jones, Wrexham, of her husband Wilfred, Major Melvyn Jones, THQ, and Alun Jones, Coedpoeth, of their father O Songster Valerie Hunter of her O Nancy

husband SL Paul Hunter; Winnie and Jeffrey Kanyama of their son Jeffrey, Esther Kanyama and Yollander Kanyama of their brother, all Leeds Central O Fred Andrew, St Ives, of his wife Eva RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Mrs Lieut-Colonel Eileen Thomas (101 on 18 April) PROMOTED TO GLORY Cockroft, Harrow

O Lucy

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UK Territory RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 April: O Major Linda Booker out of Southampton Sholing in 1980 and last appointment Divisional Finance Assistant, Southern DHQ O Major Joan Dolby out of Masbrough in 1974 and last appointment Manager, Bielefeld Red Shield Centre, Germany O Major Barbara Jackson out of Romford in 1979 and last appointment Associate Officer, Bielefeld Red Shield Centre, Germany CLIVE ADAMS, Commissioner, Territorial Commander

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: O The Philippines, Tu 16 Apr - Mon 22 O UK, London (Called And Commissioned International Conference On The Training Of Cadets), Fri 26 O Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar, Tu 7 May - Wed 15 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O ICO, Tu 16 Apr O UK, London (Called And Commissioned International Conference On The Training Of Cadets), Tu 23 - Sun 28 O Italy and Greece (Commissioning), Th 2 May - Sun 5 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O Central South, Sat Sun 21 Apr O The Dome, Doncaster (Roots Conference), Sat Sun 5 May O Southern (divisional celebration), Sun 12 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Northern (divisional officers retreat), Mon 22 Apr - Wed 24 O London (Called And Commissioned International Conference On The Training Of Cadets), Wed 24 - Sun 28* O Territorial Advisory Council, Fri 26 - Sun 28** O Scotland Council, Th 9 May COMMISSIONER WILLIAM COCHRANE: O UK, London (Called And Commissioned International Conference On The Training Of Cadets), Tu 23 Apr - Sun 28 COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O USA Western, Wed 10 Apr - Mon 15** O Canada and Bermuda, Tu 16 - Wed 24 INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Guisborough, Sat Sun 21 Apr INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O Cambridge University, Sat Sun 28 Apr *wife will not accompany **husband will not accompany

Salvationist 13 April 2013

TRIBUTES MRS JEAN GAMESON, BIRMINGHAM CITADEL PROMOTED to Glory at the age of 81, Jean was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, gran, niece and aunt. She was born into a Salvationist family at Barry Island, South Wales, in 1931, and later became a proud Salvation Army soldier at Barry, Birmingham Sparkhill and Harborne. She briefly attended Birmingham Citadel in the last year of her life. At various times Jean served as a songster and Sunday school teacher and enjoyed helping at flag days and collections. Much loved by many and generous to family and friends, Jean was a most loving mother to her three sons. Her second son, Kevin – a bandsman – was promoted to Glory in 2006. – G. G.

JOHN MELVIN, BURTON-ONTRENT JOHN was born to Salvationist parents in Loughborough, where he became a junior soldier, singing company and YP band member. John later became a senior soldier and served the Lord as a songster and bandsman. Marriage to Doris brought a move to Derby and then to Burton-on-Trent, where they continued to serve the Lord together. John’s service was curtailed when failing health and the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and dementia made it difficult for him to be fully involved. However, his smile never left him. John was a committed Christian and loyal Salvationist, who served the Master faithfully. He leaves his wife and children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. – D. M.

ON THE AIR O BBC

Radio Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire, Guernsey, Jersey (at 7.05 pm), Somerset Sound, Swindon and Wiltshire (at midnight) and online at bbc.co.uk/ devon: Sounds Of Brass on Sunday 21 April will feature music by Erik Silfverberg

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NEWS RETIRED BANDMASTER BERNARD LAWSON, WINTON BERNARD had many published compositions, and recorded music for BBC, ITV and feature films. He conducted various bands, choirs and orchestras. Under his leadership, the City of Bradford Police Choir won the national championships four years in succession. Bernard was musical director of Ringwood and Burley Band. He studied at Leeds College of Music, Trinity College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music in London, and Huddersfield School of Music. He gained an LRAM in brass band conducting and an AMusLCM. During 36 years’ service as a local officer, Bernard led every music section. He conducted combined divisional bands and songsters on recordings for ITV’s Stars On Sunday. He was also songster accompanist, YPSM, CSM and corps cadet guardian. – A. L.

MRS URSULA GLADMAN, MALDON BORN in 1925, Ursula attended the Congregational Church with her family until marriage to Bertie – a Salvationist – in 1948. The YP record sergeant for more than 40 years, Ursula is still remembered by many former Sunday school members. A quiet lady with a twinkle in her eye, she always gave encouragement and support to corps activities. She became the backbone of her family, spiritually and emotionally, following her husband’s promotion to Glory in 1971. Ursula continued various corps activities, including the songsters, until ill-health forced her retirement, and managed to attend Sunday meetings until the last week of her life. Ursula leaves her children – Pamela, Peter and David – four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. – P. T.

MRS BARBARA MORGAN, CHELTENHAM ONE of eleven children, Barbara was born in Cheltenham in 1936. Following an invitation from a Salvationist during an open-air meeting, as a young person she began attending meetings at the goodwill centre, where she found her saviour. Barbara married Jim in 1958 and they were blessed with four daughters. A real Christian lady who lived her life to the glory of God, Barbara worked hard behind the scenes – using her gifts of baking and sewing and giving her testimony to anyone who would listen. Her days were given to God and Christianity shone from her face. In latter years she suffered poor health, but never complained. Friends and family have the assurance that she is with the Lord. – D. F. Please note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

Corps retreat acts as perfect start for Holy Week SKEWEN THIRTY-THREE corps folk travelled to Llangors Lake, Llangasty, for an annual retreat, led by Majors Drew and Beverley McCombe (THQ). Using the theme A Journey Of Transformation: A Character Study Of The Life Of Peter, delegates considered the idea of transformation. Key words for the day were displayed on footprints and used later as a prayer walk. In the second session, time was spent discussing, among other questions, ‘What keeps you in the boat and what does it mean to get out of the boat?’ The final challenging question was, ‘Can we bring about transformation to our community?’ The retreat provided a perfect time for personal preparation before Holy Week. – S. L. Rosie the donkey leads the Palm Sunday walk of witness at Williamstown

Salvationist 13 April 2013

LETTERS A FRANCISCAN ARMY AND A SALVATIONIST POPE? FOLLOWING the Pope’s naming, and the confusion between Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) and Francis Xavier (1505-1551), I remember General John Larsson once starting a sermon at the Royal Festival Hall with ‘Who was the first Salvationist?’, and answering himself: ‘Francis of Assisi’, quoting Isaiah 61: ‘The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek’ (AV). General Larsson echoed General Booth’s words from In Darkest England And The Way Out: ‘As St Francis of Assisi and his heroic band of saints... were wont to go and lodge with the lepers at the city gates, so the devoted souls who have enlisted in The Salvation Army take up their quarters in the heart of the worst slums.’ Francis Xavier was a Jesuit – founded by St Ignatius as a quasi-military ‘Company of Jesus’, the most direct forerunner of The Salvation Army – practising spiritual exercises, comparable to the early Army’s kneedrill. Xavier reflected ‘the Assisian’ by ‘mingling with the poor as a poor man’, and foreshadowed Army practices by using popular tunes for hymns! Another Salvationists’ favourite is poet Francis Thompson. Educated at a Catholic public school, ending up destitute in Salvation Army hostels, he wrote on St Ignatius (1909), comparing conditions in Victorian London and 1540s’ Rome: ‘Famine was in Rome… The perishing and destitute lay in the squares and streets, as in London the houseless in our day have lain in Trafalgar Square, and over 400 were carried into the Jesuits’ new house of Torre del Melangolo… Ignatius, one may say, informally anticipated the Salvation Army shelters.’ So much for a Franciscan Army, but what about a Salvationist Pope? When Benedict XVI came to Britain, and Lieut-Colonel Alan Burns welcomed him to Scotland on television, it seemed as if he was ‘our Pope’. We watched on tenterhooks on Wednesday 13 March 2013, when his successor was 20

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announced: Francis – meaning ‘good news for the poor’ and gratification for The Salvation Army. ‘Habemus Papam!’ It seemed everyone had a new Pope: the world in general and the Catholic Church in particular – everyone but the Pope himself; he, being a quasi-military Jesuit – like us in The Salvation Army – has a General! Clare Falvey, London

COMMUNICATION ANACHRONISMS THE Salvation Army might consider consigning a few terms and badges to Room 101. At the top of my list would be the term ‘cartridge’ followed by all those badges of office worn on uniforms such as CSM, CS, CT, RS, YPSM – not to mention the assistant songster secretary! These are meaningless to the casual visitor and even to some regular attenders. I regard highly our dedicated local officers but they should wear a proper name badge if they feel it’s necessary – for example, Jack Smith – Corps Treasurer. The designation ‘singing company’ could also be misleading to non-Army folk. What’s wrong with ‘junior singers’? It’s certainly a better description. Occasionally I need to explain the meaning of our term ‘mercy seat’ to readers of our corps magazine Citadel Scene. Does this term need a rethink? Would a better definition be ‘seat of communion’? Perhaps the central feature of our halls might be more frequently used then, and would be better understood by our church friends. Fred Crowhurst, Sutton Coldfield

SHIFT TO A JAZZIER DANCE I WAS interested in Carl Jobson’s feature (Salvationist 23 March) entitled ‘Give water, give life’. Having worked in international development for four years before entering training college I was familiar with giving presentations about the ‘one billion’ people without access to

water worldwide. The feature now confirms the number is down to 783 million! This is the result of the great work of communities resourced from around the world through charities such as The Salvation Army. I believe the shift from the stiff formal waltz of traditional diplomacy and government workings with global issues to a jazzier dance of improvisational solution-orientated partnerships that include the likes of the Army is an increasingly effective way forward. I think this is also true for our work here in the UK. That’s why I have decided to run the London Marathon for the Watershed project and aim to raise £2,000. To find out more, or to support this year’s marathon runners for Salvation Army projects, visit www.justgiving.com/teams/salvationarmy-london-marathon-2013 Ben Cotterill, Cadet, William Booth College, London

THANK YOU FOR EASTER MUSIC I WOULD like to express my appreciation to Salvationist for publishing my request for details of Easter music to assist me with my Easter meditations. My needs have now been met as I have been inundated with numerous replies from all over the country. This goes to show what a marvellous forum Salvationist is for the Army. I have been reunited with old friends and made many new ones. Our music tradition is second to none. Bram Scott, Woodbridge Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address O The Editor reserves the right to edit letters or print extracts O Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk