Salvationist 13 April 2024

SALVATIONIST

SAFE SPACES

BATTLING HOMELESSNESS TOGETHER

is meant to be a place of safety and security but, for many people, this can often be a dream rather than a reality. Whether displaced by conflict or oppression, or detached from loved ones by disagreement or difficult circumstances, a safe space is often the starting point for rebuilding broken lives.

The Salvation Army is well known for its work with people facing such challenging situations and this week’s issue looks at a number of contexts where this work is being undertaken.

None of us can know how our own circumstances might change at any given moment, leaving us facing challenges in an unfamiliar environment. However, as Christians we have the assurance of God’s presence whatever our circumstances might be.

Scripture reminds us: ‘God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea’ (Psalm 46:1 and 2).

When our home and our salvation are in God, then we have cause to hope wherever we may find ourselves. May God bless you.

To subscribe, speak to your corps leader or visit sps-shop.com

A sporting chance

As The Beautiful Game kicks off on Netflix, Ivan Radford cheers on its show of respect

‘THEY’RE just beginning to feel good about themselves, and that’s a miracle. And the name of that miracle is respect.’ Those are the words of the USA coach in The Beautiful Game, a film about the Homeless World Cup now streaming on Netflix.

The movie follows a team of English footballers who head to Rome to compete in the annual global football tournament. The thing they all have in common? They’re all experiencing homelessness. The film is inspired by the real-life tournament, which advocates for the end of homelessness, using sport to change attitudes and shape the players’ lives. How? By showing them respect.

The tournament gives them something to belong to, a shared sense of purpose and the opportunity to be celebrated for their talents and teamwork. At the same time, it gives spectators the opportunity to look past the label of ‘homelessness’ and see them as people with skills, dreams and goals.

The Salvation Army has also tapped into football’s potential to help transform lives: each year the UKI Territory’s Homelessness Services organise the Partnership Trophy, a footballing tournament for residents of its Lifehouses. The competition is rooted in that same principle of respect.

In fact, respect is one of the six values of the Army in this territory. It means that we ‘welcome each person with the dignity of those created in the image of God, valuing their diversity, seeking to serve each other’s flourishing and transformation within God’s love’.

In The Beautiful Game, the England team’s manager, Mal, played by Bill Nighy, encourages each of the players to see and treat each other with respect, bearing in mind their past traumas and experiences without defining them by or limiting them to those.

The story’s focus is largely on talented but troubled striker Vinny (Micheal Ward), who was scouted by Mal as a young rising star. Mal’s passion for helping Vinny stems from him seeing the potential in Vinny for something greater. As Christians, respect is all about seeing the God-given potential in other people – and, with humility and grace, recognising that God is still realising that potential in ourselves.

After all, ‘while we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8). And none of us is a completed work. Wherever you are at in your faith journey, there’s a game of two halves still playing out: the first half begins with the whistle of salvation and the second half is living that out, being a disciple of Jesus. As Paul told the Philippians: ‘I am sure that God who

began the good work in you will keep on working in you until the day Jesus Christ comes again’ (1:6 New Life Version).

‘We don’t save ourselves,’ observes Protasia, the nun who manages the South Africa team in the film. She’s right: only God can save people. But as teammates in Jesus’ mission, welcoming each person with the dignity of those created in the image of God, we can help bring more people into this beautiful game.

Reflect and respond

How intentionally do you look past labels and preconceptions to see the God-given potential in others?

Read Philippians 2:1–7. How can you value the people around you this week?

Read more about the territory’s values at salvationist.org.uk/ our-values.

Picture: Alfredo Falvo / Netflix

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Andy Boland

Tŷ Gobaith Lifehouse seconds with...

Who are you and what do you do?

Andy Boland, Lifehouse resident and member of the Partnership Trophy 2023 winning team. I was the scorer of the winning goal in the final – a ‘screamer’ from our own half!

What’s your most-played song at the moment?

‘Too Good at Goodbyes’ by Sam Smith.

What was the last website you visited? YouTube.

Which emoji sums you up best?

What do you do in your spare time?

Play football, watch TV and, when my bike is working, ride my bike.

If you were president of the world, what’s the first thing you would do?

Stop wars.

Do you have any hidden talents? I can sing.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Not to make the same mistakes I have.

What are you praying for at the moment?

For a flat to live in again.

‘Running gives me time to reflect and pray’

Chris Goldsmith (Romford) shares why he’s taking part in the London Marathon next week

IGREW up attending The Salvation Army.

My family has deep ties to Romford Corps: a member of the Goldsmith family has been at the corps since my greatgrandfather in 1908. I think that, like many people who grow up in the Church, I cannot pinpoint a singular moment of conversion, but my faith was nurtured as a child. As I grew, so did my understanding of God and what it means to be a Christian.

Romford Corps is my spiritual home, but it has also always been a place of friendship and connection. And, for quite a few years, also a place of fitness as I donned my Romford SA football shirt to play in the local church football league!

I started running in my late twenties as a new way to challenge myself. My first foray was my local Parkrun. That Saturday morning run became the start of a new hobby. Weekday evening runs were added to the schedule and 5k runs segued into 10ks, then half-marathons, until I signed up for the 2020 Manchester Marathon. It was due to take place in April, but was –understandably – called off.

Last year, I reached out to the fundraising team to see if the Army had any charity spaces and to ask whether the monies I raised could be donated directly to my corps. When they confirmed both, I was really pleased. My fundraising page is now live at justgiving.com/campaign/ TheSalvationArmyLondonMarathon2024

Knowing that the money I raise will help the community work at my corps has given me extra purpose and motivation.

It’s been really encouraging to be supported by the corps – there are two other members who are running and raising money too! Sharing our training tips and keeping each other motivated has been great.

My training is now in the final stages and I’m eagerly anticipating the big day. I would encourage anyone who’s ever thought of running the London Marathon to consider running on behalf of the Army, as it’s great to raise money for projects close to your heart while also giving yourself a challenge. And, if you’re in London on Sunday 21 April, look out for the ‘Sally Army Striders’ vests and cheer us on!

a run me shake off the stress of the day and

However, my running habit was a godsend in those difficult Covid-19 lockdown months. Running has a positive impact on my mental health. Going out for a run helps me shake off the stress of the day and gives me time to reflect and pray.

When the 2020 marathon was rescheduled for October 2021, I was

hdldfOtb2021Irescheduled for October 2021, I was finally able to put my training to the test. Since then I have completed two more marathons, but it has always been a goal to complete the London Marathon. or

• Ready to run and raise funds for the Army? For information, visit salvationarmy. org.uk/challenge-events or email challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk

Have you got a testimony to share? Get in touch at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk.

Deep Roots

by Herne Bay Open House Drop-in

In this occasional series, Salvationists share artwork inspired by their faith

What does Deep Roots depict?

‘It’s a 3.5ft by 3ft collage of all colours made from cut pieces of material,’ describes Community Assistant Kim McLaughlin. ‘This surrounds a root system with a red heart at the centre. Over it all, paper letters read “may your roots go down deep into the soil of God’s wondrous love”, which is inspired by Ephesians 3:17.’

How was it made?

‘I came across a painted canvas that was being given away,’ Kim explains. ‘I drew a basic base of a tree and the roots and then we put it to our Open House group. I was a bit crazy about Gustav Klimt at the time, so we cut out loads of circles. In a way it’s like how the depth of God’s love goes on for ever. And then we let them run wild with it. They loved it! It became a community thing, and people could see God’s message

through it.

‘The materials are mainly fabrics. There are also some acrylics and some beads. There’s wool, string, gold paint – it’s a rainbow of colours. It started off quite structured and then people began to do their own thing. A few people were really dedicated to it and came looking for it each week, which was really cool. It took about eight or nine weeks in the end.’

What inspired it?

‘Our Open House is a place where people can come and just be,’ corps leader Territorial Envoy Vicki Tate adds. ‘It’s a warm space in the winter months, yes, but it’s also a place where people can experience the warmth of Jesus’ love for them throughout the year. We care for people’s physical needs by offering food, drink and art and crafts. We care for their emotional needs

by listening to and helping them realise that they aren’t alone and that they have a family to love and support them. We care for their spiritual needs by showing them that we love because God first loved us – and that he loves them too. Ephesians 3:14–19 is our prayer that people will come to be rooted and established in that love and to know the breadth, length, height and depth of that love in their own lives.’

Kim concludes: ‘We want to say a big thank you to all the volunteers and people who worked on Deep Roots for making such a beautiful piece!’

Have you created something inspired by your faith that you’d like to share in Artists’ Corner?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy. org.uk to find out more.

Behind closed doors

Captain Luke Johnson considers how Thomas moved from doubt to certainty

JOHN 20:19–29

ITHINK that, as adults, we often forget how much joy and wonder children can experience. Our four-year-old is at that stage where he is continually discovering new things. His learning and growing is coming through a series of revelations –including how to use an iPad.

John 20 starts with the revelation of the empty tomb and the resurrected Jesus. The followers of Jesus are discovering something that is completely beyond their comprehension. One of the most striking things is the fear that grips the disciples. They shut themselves away. I imagine them hanging a ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door. They are together, unified in fear and stuck behind the closed doors of disorientation and disappointment.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What is it that causes you to want to run away and hide?

Why are we sometimes fearful of what’s ‘out there’?

Do we sometimes shut ourselves away in our halls, fuelled by fear of the unknown or unexpected outcomes?

Suddenly, the scene changes. Jesus arrives among the frightened disciples in the locked room and utters the words: ‘Peace be with you!’ (v19). The resurrected Jesus is right there. Even when they are trying to keep the religious leaders out, Jesus makes a way

to reveal himself. Just imagine what would it have been like to be in that room. It is utterly astonishing. Jesus shows the disciples the marks on his body. It’s almost as though Jesus is saying: ‘Look, it really is me.’ The fear expressed in verse 19 turns to joy in verse 20. They have seen the Lord.

Then, Jesus gives the disciples three important instructions. First, they are to be a sent people. There comes a time when the huddle needs to unlock the door, trust God for the next step and take the revelation of Jesus they’ve experienced into the world. The disciples may well have thought: ‘How do we do this?’

Second, the disciples are to receive the Holy Spirit. As Tom Wright in his commentary John for Everyone observes, the disciples need the Holy Spirit ‘to enable them to do the job they could otherwise never dream of doing’. Without this life-giving power of God, they might as well stay in that locked room.

Third, followers of Jesus are to be people of forgiveness. At the start of John’s Gospel, John the Baptist declared that Jesus was the one who would forgive sins (see 1:29). Those who follow Jesus are to do the same –reveal the forgiveness offered by Jesus to whosoever.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Can you think of a time when Jesus changed your fear to joy?

In what situations do you need the Holy Spirit’s power?

One way of thinking about revelation is when something previously unknown becomes known. The disciples tell Thomas they’ve seen the Lord. Thomas missed that appearance. We are not told why. Therefore, Thomas has a choice – to believe his friends or to look for more evidence. Put yourself in Thomas’s shoes for a moment. What do you think your response would be?

In verse 25, we read that Thomas wants certainty. However, Thomas must wait a whole week to find out whether the revelation shared by the disciples is true. Will he accept their testimony? Dare he believe that Jesus has really revealed himself – that Jesus is really alive?

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Are we comfortable in asking our own questions about Jesus?

How would you finish this prayer?

‘Lord, help me to see…’

In verse 26, we discover a similar scene to the first part of the passage in verse 19. This time, Thomas is in the room with the other disciples. Once again, Jesus appears and it’s the turn of Thomas to see Jesus and to hear him say: ‘Peace be with you!’ (v26).

Jesus knows the doubts and questions that Thomas has. He invites Thomas to touch him and to see that he is indeed the resurrected Christ: ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side’ (v27).

Once again, the scene has shifted. The disbelief of ‘unless I see … I will not believe’ (v25) has been replaced by a declaration

of faith: ‘My Lord and my God!’ (v28).

In everyday conversation, people sometimes describe a person as a ‘doubting Thomas’ – generally in a negative way. Yet Thomas is the first person in John’s Gospel who looks at Jesus and addresses him as ‘my God’.

My own experience has shown me that, even when I cannot understand it all, doubts, questions and difficulties can lead to a deepening of faith in Jesus.

Maybe his words in verse 29 remind us that each person’s experience of the revelation of Jesus is different – no two journeys are the same. Jesus accepts each one of us in his all-embracing love.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Can you think of a time when your doubts and questioning have led to a deepening of faith?

What might it mean for you to hear Jesus say ‘peace be with you’?

These post-resurrection appearances of Jesus encourage us to seek him for ourselves. May we all be open to seeing the continuing revelation of God in our lives and in the lives of those we journey alongside.

My prayer is that this will take us beyond locked rooms of fear and doubt and out into spaces where we, in freedom, share the amazing love of Jesus.

CAPTAIN LUKE JOHNSON Corps Officer Minster

From 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 13 APRIL: CARE FOR CREATION – THE BLESSING OF BIRDS

Father God, we thank you for the birds that fill our skies with their graceful flight and melodic songs. We pray for protection of migratory routes; we ask that the creation of bird-friendly spaces will become more of a priority in man’s planning, and that you will empower the voices of those advocating against practices like deforestation that disrupt their habitats.

by Major Vivienne Prescott (Forest of Dean)

SUNDAY 14 APRIL: SABBATH PRAYER – THE CHOICE TO STOP

Stopping what we’re doing is never easy, either when we’re enjoying something or battling with something. We’ve probably all heard someone say, ‘You need to stop!’ As hard as it is, it is a choice that we can make. Lord, give us the strength to stop and let go. In Jesus’ name we pray.

by Major Gary Lacey (Territorial Prayer Co-ordinator)

MONDAY 15 APRIL: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – JOIN THE CRESCENDO

At this online forum, creative arts and music leaders gather together to unpack the Join the Crescendo resource. These leaders are dealing with very different groups and situations. Pray for encouragement and that everyone present will find fresh vision for the ways God’s love can be communicated through music and creativity.

by Stephanie Lamplough (Music and Creative Arts)

TUESDAY 16 APRIL: SERVING AND CARING – PIONEER FOCUS – THE CHALLENGES OF PLANTING

Pray for those who are finding pioneering to be a struggle today, for grace to keep going and for determination to keep making Christ known, even when they don’t see fruit. by Dave Cotterill

(Pioneer Development Worker)

WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL: GROWING IN FAITH – NATURAL CHURCH DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE

This conference (19–21 April) gathers groups from corps and gives them an opportunity to consider how to capitalise on the strengths they have as a worshipping community, how to overcome obstacles to growth, and how to disciple the Church while engaging in mission. Pray for all those who will attend, that they will return home with fresh ideas and fresh energy. Pray that all who attend will return home with fresh ideas and energy. by the UKI Boiler Room Team

THURSDAY 18 APRIL: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – NIGERIA TERRITORY

We pray today for the Nigeria Territory. We ask God’s blessings on Territorial Commander Commissioner Daniel Kasuso and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Tracey Kasuso. In a country where faith is often a flashpoint for strife and violence, we pray for protection for Salvationists and for the programmes they are running. May the word of God bear fruit and change lives. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)

FRIDAY 19 APRIL: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND MODERN SLAVERY

The Contract Team connects with local authorities, partner organisations and individuals to offer advice and to do anything else they can to help bring survivors of trafficking to freedom. Pray for them as they navigate complex decisions and processes, to ensure that survivors receive the care and support they deserve and are entitled to. by Major Estelle Blake and the Anti-Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery Unit

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.

Discerning the way forward

Nick Redmore talks to Major Julian Watchorn about the new strategy for Homelessness Services

Homelessness Services by numbers

As of January 2024, the territory’s provision includes:

ASK most people what they know about The Salvation Army and fairly high on their list will be its work with people experiencing homelessness. For well over a century this important work has been at the heart of the Movement’s ministry.

Although the fundamental principle of helping people without a home has not changed, the forms of accommodation offered to alleviate this situation have, as have the funding streams offered to assist in addressing them at both a local and national level.

It was in seeking to work within this maelstrom of uncertainty that a new strategy for Homelessness Services was born.

‘For decades, the Army has been challenged by the changing whims and circumstances of local authorities, financial limitations and political preferences,’ says Director of Homelessness Services Nick Redmore. ‘Being pulled and pushed in the investment choices that it was being

asked to make, and facing a series of difficult decisions around the future of its larger buildings, the board of The Salvation Army Trustee Company (SATCo) asked for a clearer picture of the direction Homelessness Services wanted to take.’

The response of the Homelessness Services leadership team was one of prayerful reflection. Rather than an instant response, the team chose to step back and seek to understand and determine God’s will, taking time to listen as God spoke through others.

‘This process of conversation with service users, divisions, Homelessness Services staff members, chaplains and other teams and colleagues led to the name of the strategy: 1,000 Voices,’ explains Nick. ‘It soon became clear that we had taken in the views of over 1,000 people over a year. The process brought us to a very clear consensus on investing in change that will influence the direction of Homelessness Services for the next 10 years.’

There are many significant proposals within the strategy but one of the key principles is the need to invest in smaller expressions, in smaller buildings.

Another key intention is to invest further in integrated mission.

‘We want to build on the alreadyexisting expressions where the multifaceted forms of Salvation Army mission work together in addressing homelessness,’ says Nick. ‘We want to tap into and empower the local with the support of territorial resources and experience.’

There is within the strategy an acknowledgement of the frustration of many Salvationists who want to know how best to respond to people they may meet who are experiencing homelessness and how to refer them to the Army’s own services for help and support.

There is also a commitment to creating 100 self-referral bed spaces over the next 3 to 5 years and an ongoing dialogue around ways to improve this.

‘Rather than being tied to large, expensive buildings, this new strategy shares a vision for a more flexible, hybrid model that enables more agile, local responses to the needs being faced in each area,’ elaborates Nick.

‘We recognise that, although we may find some “quick wins”, there is no quick fix to the challenges facing us and we need to have a longer-term approach.’

The strategy makes a firm commitment to fulfilling the territory’s five mission priorities and its vision of bringing fullness of life to all with Jesus.

Asked how Salvationists can be a part of this commitment, Nick adds: ‘We cannot underestimate the power of prayer. Prayer has been at the heart of the formation of this strategy and we must continue to pray that God will direct all that we do.’

• More information about the strategy will be shared on salvationist.org.uk in the coming months.

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor Salvationist

The next 10 years

The key priorities for the Homelessness Services are:

1. Mission effectiveness through a discerned approach will be the primary purpose in all new business.

2. The Army’s property portfolio will be fit for purpose, sustainable, minimising liability and creating asset value.

3. Rebalance and diversify the mix of operational models. There will be an increase in integrated mission, homelessness prevention and nonaccommodation-based models.

4. Develop new approaches for fundraising and income generation that will drive a change in income mix.

5. New and existing strategic collaborative partnerships to better meet mission aims, including a joined-up strategy with Salvation Army Homes.

6. Develop creative solutions to help end rough sleeping and develop a consistent Homelessness Services rough sleeping offer.

7. Developing all service provision through a harm reduction and trauma-informed lens.

Transforming lives

Salvation Army Homes Chief Executive Lynne Shea talks to George Tanton about the housing association’s rebrand

What does Salvation Army Homes do?

We are a diverse specialist provider of supported housing across England. Our vision is to be an acknowledged provider of choice for local authorities, providing supported housing and community solutions to homelessness in conjunction with The Salvation Army, our parent organisation.

We provide a range of general needs, directly managed supported and agency managed supported housing, as well as specialist ‘move on’ accommodation. Our principal focus is providing services to rough sleepers, young people experiencing homelessness, young mothers, families and ex-offenders.

Our directly managed supported housing tends to be smaller services in the suburbs. In terms of the Army’s Lifehouses in our portfolio, we own the overall property and provide some of the housing management services, then the Army’s Homelessness Services provides the support and sometimes the housing management as well.

How many properties does Salvation Army Homes manage?

We manage or own more than 4,000 homes. As part of that, we look after retired officers’ accommodation, which is about 700 properties.

How many people work for Salvation Army Homes?

About 300 people, including people on the front line and about 80 relief workers, who come in and help out if our support workers or project workers are off sick or on holiday.

What are the external challenges currently facing Salvation Army Homes?

The UK economy has been faced with high inflation, higher interest rates and a declining housing market. Access to skilled labour remains a challenge while concern over the safety, decency and energy efficiency of homes continues to grow as the reputation of

the housing sector remains under scrutiny. Furthermore, the full effects from the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and in the Middle East are still unknown and climate change remains a worldwide issue.

Our specific challenges mirror that of the wider sector. Commissioned services have high expectations and less funding, access to ‘move on’ accommodation is difficult and demand far outstrips supply.

We believe we are well placed to meet these challenges: we have resilient, passionate colleagues, strong finances and an overwhelming desire to transform more lives.

What led to the rebrand of Salvation Army Homes?

Our previous acronym – saha (Salvation Army Housing Association) – wasn’t necessarily known by anybody outside the sector or outside The Salvation Army. We’re privileged to be part of the Army family and we want to be linked more closely. If we can make that link clear externally, that’s a really strong message and, as more local authorities require registered providers to be at the forefront of contracts, we can be a strong arm of the Army’s work.

How do your values align with those of the Army?

The company was founded by the Army in 1959. Consequently, our values are based on our Christian roots and culture. They include servant leadership and helping people thrive, having passion for investing in the lives of our residents, working as a team to build an inclusive environment where everyone has a sense of belonging and feels valued, showing respect for all, and empowering employees and residents.

brand

Why are ‘safe homes’ and ‘transforming lives’ central to the Salvation Army Homes brand?

Our mission is Safe Homes, Transforming Lives by providing solutions to homelessness and enabling residents to develop their own potential. We work with some of the most vulnerable people in society. It’s important for each individual using our services to have self-esteem, to be able to feel that they can live independently. If someone is starting afresh, recovering from experiencing homelessness, Salvation Army Homes can fill that gap by helping them into a more permanent residence so they can continue rebuilding their lives.

What are your ambitions for the future?

We want to continue providing excellent customer service, investing in our existing properties, delivering more homes to help residents achieve independent living, and maintaining our financial strength. Underpinning our ambitions are our close links with The Salvation Army. We want to continue delivering our mission of Safe Homes, Transforming Lives together.

GEORGE TANTON Editorial Assistant Salvationist

Giving homelessness the boot

George Tanton finds out about Goals for Good, a new campaign tackling homelessness through football

‘FOOTBALL is a universal language,’ explains Digital Marketing and Fundraising Officer Will Lee. ‘There are so many ways in which people engage with it.’

A lifelong Sheffield United supporter, Will still enjoys watching the Blades at Bramall Lane with his dad. He credits the sport as a social glue for many communities, remembering the sense of togetherness shared among spectators.

‘My dad has been a season ticket holder for 50 to 60 years,’ he says. ‘He’s been sitting with the same group of people since they were 12 or 13. Football groups meet social needs and provide a key place of belonging.’

That sense of community has inspired Goals for Good – a campaign aimed at encouraging football fans to support The Salvation Army’s mission to tackle homelessness. The project also provides an opportunity to build greater ties between communities and corps across the territory, leading new audiences to connect with the Army at a local level.

The upcoming Euro 2024 tournament and Summer Olympics Cup will present opportunities for evangelism, for example in schools and workplaces, which Goals for Good will capitalise on by encouraging ‘watch parties’ at corps buildings and Salvationists’ homes.

‘Walking into a Salvation Army building and watching a game of football might spark conversations or interest in other events at your corps. That could then lead to coming to a Bible study or an Alpha

course,’ explains Will.

Another opportunity for relationshipbuilding will be ‘wear your kit’ days, when Salvationists and Army staff members can don their favourite football shirt, scarf or flag for church and work respectively, in return for sponsored donations to the Army’s Homelessness Services.

Football-based activism is not a new idea for the Army. The annual Partnership Trophy organised by Homelessness Services and Salvation Army Homes has run for the past 13 years. Goals for Good will seek to build upon the football tournament’s overwhelming success.

‘Football can be a mouthpiece for social change,’ asserts Will. ‘The Partnership Trophy has shown it can be an amazing vehicle for improving people’s lives. Goals for Good is all about getting together around football, and tackling homelessness at the same time.’

Will wants the campaign to be as inclusive as possible, with both the men’s and women’s game equally celebrated. It will stretch a hand of fellowship to people outside traditional church circles or not typically connected with The Salvation Army. It is hoped that Goals for Good will capitalise on people’s love for the sport and unite them together.

In the past few years, a number of podcasts and online communities have developed that get together virtually and talk about football.

It is hoped that Goals for Good can harness this kind of passion to help the Army help those most vulnerable in

Ways you can join in

Watch Parties

Get people together in your hall to enjoy a match

Wear Your Kit Days

Get sponsored to wear your team’s colours to your corps or work

society – and kick off connections with communities that can last beyond the summer, including children, young people, families and older people’s groups.

‘Goals for Good provides a ready-made opportunity to connect with people.

Hosting watch parties at your corps might engage your neighbours who may have never been to church. Their kids might love football and it may be an opportunity to get people together, even if they’re not massive football fans!’ adds Will.

• For more information about Goals for Good, visit salvationarmy.org.uk/goalsforgood.

GEORGE TANTON Editorial Assistant Salvationist

Basildon A stepping stone to shelter

Just where he needs me

I was appointed as the corps officer in July 2022. It’s a small corps with a relaxed congregation of about 25 people of varying ages and ethnic backgrounds. Two other churches also hold their services here on Sundays and we have a Bible study group and Alpha. Part of my role is overseeing the work of Programme Manager Tracie Sharkey, who manages our award-winning six modular SoloHaus homes, donated by The Hill Group, as part of a larger development.

Five pounds multiplied in faith

Just under a decade ago, a then five-year-old boy, Malachi, asked the Army to use his £5 donation from the tooth fairy to help people experiencing homelessness. After a period of additional fundraising, Malachi Place in Ilford opened in 2020, followed by Malachi Homes in Basildon in May 2023.

Residents at Malachi Homes are individually supported to ensure they attend appointments and their needs are met. Some do some cooking at the corps and they’ve been working on a

Fast Facts

DIVISION: East of England

CORPS OFFICER: Major Tim Justice

FIND US ONLINE: facebook.com/ BasildonSalvationArmy

garden project with wellbeing and mental health charity Trust Links.

A hub of helpfulness

We have a weekly food bank, which is in high demand. We also offer kitchen, laundry and shower facilities and a daily drop-in during the week with befrienders and much-needed listening ears.

We work closely with other churches through Churches Together. Every day a different church provides a community meal at 6pm.

Employment Plus operates when the food bank is open and Essex Wellbeing Service are on hand to offer support with physical health. Peabody, part of the council’s outreach services, provides assistance with housing applications. An NHS mental health professional also visits and refers people on to other agencies, such as support for substance abuse.

A rhythm of prayer

It’s important that service users know that we are a church. We hold daily prayers at 9am, midday and 3pm – if we miss one, they let us know! It’s great to see folk at the drop-ins engaging in prayer. It’s so important we nurture their spiritual wellbeing as well as meet their physical needs.

Changing seasons

Over winter the churches collaborated to provide a night shelter, which stopped at the end of March. Last September we enhanced our provision – by staying open later, for example – to meet one person’s particular needs.

When the Saturday night shelter –held in the corps building – closed at 8am on Sundays, I’d been opening the hall early so that they could stay longer and even stay for our meeting if they wished to.

When better weather comes, people drift away a little, although they often return to use the facilities. Now we get 10 to 20 people a day coming through the doors, some of whom stay all day.

Safe haven to next steps

Resident ‘Ezekial’ was sleeping rough before being introduced to the corps. He said: ‘The Army has allowed me to live a normal life. The facilities are great, and Majors Tim and Jo are real diamonds. Something we can learn from them is how to show love and patience in a caring way. I’m stepping forward into a position where I’d like to be, rather than just taking a space in an HMO. This is a safe haven where I can build my next steps. I hope I can give back to this place. This feels like home and that’s why I come here.’

Demand has risen recently, perhaps because of our night shelter or because homelessness has generally become a more prolific problem. God has placed us where we are to respond to that need. We pray God will continue to bless and use us.

SoloHaus units

Garden project

FUNDRAISING

GOLDTHORPE To help struggling families, nine-year-old George used his pocket money, as well as £245 raised from a sponsored bike ride, to buy hundreds of items for the corps food bank. George said: ‘I’ve got a lot of stuff and I know some kids haven’t got a lot, so I thought if I give them something this would help them out. I hope other people will know what a difference it makes and will do it as well.’ George’s mum, Gemma, said: ‘We had been to Goldthorpe Salvation Army for a few of the free activity days they put on for children. George was showing an interest in what The Salvation Army does and, when I was sorting out some clothes to donate, he asked what else they needed.’ George is pictured alongside Community Project Co-ordinator Jackie Kenning and corps leader Territorial Envoy Alison Sykes. – AR

EASTER

CANTERBURY Through the creative ideas of Helen Edwards, the newest adherent at the corps, a floral workshop and afternoon tea raised £200 for community funds. Half of those at the workshop were new to the corps. The flowers were used to decorate the hall for Easter Day, when one of the attendees gave their testimony. The workshop was part of a focus on using the different gifts of corps members. – GF

Salvationist wants to hear from you!

Corps press representatives can email reports to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Good quality pictures may be included.

MUSIC

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL The International Staff Band’s visit began with a YP band practice with International Staff Bandmaster Stephen Cobb. Later, a full house listened to the ISB. Visiting his own corps, ISB principal cornet Gavin Lamplough gave a superb rendition of ‘Caprice for Cornet’. The highlights for many were ‘The Present Age’ and ‘Koinonia’. Other soloists featured throughout the weekend included Jonathan Evans (euphonium), Richard Woodrow (flugelhorn) and Andrew Hedley (euphonium). With a faith lunch between the meetings on Sunday, the band and corps family were able to get to know each other. It was a memorable weekend for everyone present. – RO

EASTER

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

FOLKESTONE Lego Church has been launched to help children and their families gain social skills. The idea came from corps officer Major Richard Oliver. ‘The children attending our Kidz Club have a range of needs and some find social interaction difficult,’ he explained. ‘Lego is a generation-bridging activity.’ – MC

Children at Isle of Wight Corps celebrate Easter alongside a cross decorated with yellow flowers

ANNIVERSARY

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD

Commissioners Carol and Ivor Telfer led the 134th anniversary weekend, with the corps enjoying a Saturday evening Last Night at the Proms concert. International Staff Songster Caitlin Hedley sang a varied and vibrant repertoire, while the band, songsters and young people rounded off the evening in fellowship, patriotism and worship! Sunday morning worship celebrated Mother’s Day and Commissioner Ivor preached sensitively on verses from Joshua, focusing on the boldness of the Israelites’ journey. A tremendous amount of planning took place to ensure its success. Many blessings were shared. – HS

WELLING The corps prepared and served soup for the Churches Together Good Friday walk of witness. One of the youngest corps members, aged 3, joined one of the oldest, almost 80, to hand out copies of the Easter story to passers-by. On Saturday, families enjoyed an Easter party, with food and Easter eggs, which were kindly donated by the staff at Tesco. Several children asked their parents if they could come back for church. Easter Day began with a breakfast of Resurrection buns – extra chairs were needed! The young people led a chorus of celebration and asked people to write down and share prayers to hang on the corps prayer tree. A time of testimony highlighted the truth of Jesus moving in people’s lives today. After worship, homemade simnel cakes were shared. – KS

GATESHEAD Vida, a volunteer at the senior group who is from Lithuania, made and donated 400 hand-painted eggs for distribution during Holy Week. One of the main traditions of Easter celebrations in Lithuania is the decorating of eggs to symbolise the end of 40 days of fasting. – AH

FELTHAM After journeying through Holy Week together, corps folk celebrated Easter Day by boldly declaring: ‘I am alive in Christ!’ – JB EASTER

BARROW-IN-FURNESS The corps led the joint churches’ walk of witness and Good Friday service. On Saturday, corps folk welcomed 77 people into the hall to take part in an Easter trail and Messy Church. – SG EASTER

CIRENCESTER The children of the Gap Sunday club took part in Easter crafts, including an Easter garden and signing their names on a cross to confirm their belief that Jesus died for them. – MG EASTER

Clowne displays an Easter garden to mark Good Friday

WELLING The Knit and Natter group made more than 50 colourful eggs to kick-start Easter celebrations. Each egg was hidden around the town, with families and young people tasked with returning them to the Easter fair on Palm Sunday. Each returned egg was swapped for a goodie bag containing Kids Alive!, a ‘Jesus loves you’ pencil and mini chocolate eggs. – KS

STORNOWAY On Palm Sunday, the corps and band joined with other churches to celebrate in the town centre. About 40 people gathered to honour the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. This has become a tradition over the past few years. – FT

EASTER NEWS IN BRIEF

CANTERBURY The corps welcomed Southend Citadel Songsters for a weekend of ministry and music. The Saturday evening concert was well attended and featured vocal and instrumental solos, as well as a puppet show. The Sunday morning service welcomed guests and visitors as the songsters thoughtfully led worship. There was a sense of real blessing and fellowship. – KC

BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL

Luke Sibley raised over £350 towards supporting the corps Open House project that supports people within the community who find themselves struggling. Luke has a passion for serving the community and is a valuable part of the team. – JM

CHALK FARM In a praiseful Palm Sunday meeting, people laid cloaks on the pathway to the cross to begin their Holy Week journey. Many people joined a Maundy Thursday reflection on the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. On Good Friday the congregation were invited to place footprints on the pathway. On Easter Day many came forward to place their names on the empty cross. The celebrations concluded with the band, assisted by musicians from Regent Brass, witnessing outside the hall. A lamb roast and homemade hot cross buns followed. – MK

IPSWICH CITADEL The young people arranged a cake sale that raised over £300 towards the cost of going to the divisional Big Adventure weekend. – DC

TEDDINGTON The ladies’ fellowship meets together regularly as an opportunity to share fellowship, conversation and go deeper in faith. In the lead-up to Easter, they made greetings cards. – EW

MERTHYR TYDFIL The local Principality Building Society supported the corps Easter egg appeal, donating 140 chocolate eggs to the food bank. – LB

CLOWNE Majors Fiona and Martin Sayer (East Midlands DHQ) led the Easter weekend, commencing on Good Friday with an evening meditation and ending on Sunday evening with a congregational ‘trial by jury’ of the resurrection of Jesus. It was a thought-provoking and challenging weekend with a difference. – GH

EASTER

EASTER

HYTHE The band supported the Churches Together Good Friday walk of witness through the town, gathering for a service in the town square to remind the community of the significance of the day. – SS-C

EASTER

MABEL Ruzidzo and Thandiwe Gumbo were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Adrian Maddern. Mabel arrived from Zimbabwe to work as a nurse at Royal Berkshire Hospital. She attended the Army in Zimbabwe but wanted to make a fresh commitment of soldiership in the UK. Mabel, her husband, Bongani, and their two children are fully involved in the corps. Thandiwe, also from Zimbabwe and a trainee nurse at the hospital, returned to the corps after several years away. She testified to God’s faithfulness and how he has always guided her life. She attends with her daughter. The corps is so blessed to have new families attend and stay: we have intentionally worked upon creating conditions of growth and God has answered our prayers. – BM READING

SKEWEN

PAUL Demery was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Mary Wolfe. In his testimony, Paul spoke of his Army upbringing and paid tribute to the part his mother and father played in his faith, and his gratitude to God for how much the corps – and many people in it – have played a part in nurturing that faith. – SL

STOCKPORT CITADEL

BRAM and Mary Moate were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Captain Maisie Veacock. They were the first enrolled under the new corps flag, which was dedicated in the same meeting. Bram and Mary were lifelong Salvationists until they lost contact with the Army many years ago. The corps was blessed when they walked into the hall at the end of a meeting and since have become very involved. After becoming adherents last year, they decided the time was right for them to rededicate themselves and re-sign the Soldier’s Covenant. Also pictured is Recruiting Sergeant Wendy Willis. – PH

LEIGH-ON-SEA

BALLYMONEY

EMILY and Oscar were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Captain Clare Davis. They were supported by family and friends, including their grandmas who prayed with them at the mercy seat. Emily, Oscar and Captain Clare are pictured with corps officer Captain Robert Davis and Alison Marjurum, who led them through junior soldier preparation classes. – PJ

CORPS officer Major Jane-Marie Cook welcomed Leona McNicoll as an adherent on Mother’s Day. Leona first connected with the corps through the Befriending Project a few years ago. She then started coming to the midweek drop-in and loves it. She was invited to come on a Sunday and has not looked back. Leona spoke of how the welcome she received made her feel that she belonged. Leona feels she can use her gifts to serve God where he has placed her. – J-MC

IPSWICH CITADEL

GAVIN Codd was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Andrew Jarrold. In his testimony, Gavin said that he had been an active member of Stowmarket Corps but gave up going to worship some years ago. During the Covid-19 lockdowns he began watching online services and reconnected with former friends at Ipswich Citadel. He started to come to activities, such as the Man Friday Club, and was then persuaded to come to the morning meetings. Gavin commented on the warmth of his welcome and how he has felt at home in the corps. – DC

CANNOCK

BRIAN and Marion Dark were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major Gary Chatburn. Major Gary reminded everyone present of the importance of the cross and the colours of the Army flag. Brian testified that it was the welcome and kindness of the Tots Team, when they brought their granddaughter, that led to them worshipping at the corps. Brian and Marion have become very much part of the corps family, committing tirelessly to the community outreach programme. They felt that this was the next step for them on their Christian journeys. – RC

HAROLD HILL

HELEN Ballard, Rita Dano and Eve Pamphile were welcomed as adherents by corps leader Territorial Envoy Phil Goldsmith. Supported by family and friends, they all chose songs for the service, including ‘Goodness of God’ from Rita. Helen spoke of finding a church and a new family, and Eve challenged us to continue serving and loving the community. A lunch followed the service. – PG

PARKHEAD

AFTER moving from Nigeria to the UK, Jennifer Yuwa Iorhuna and her family made the decision that the corps was to be their spiritual home. Jennifer is pictured with Divisional Mission Officer Major Fiona Partland, who welcomed her as an adherent. – AD

LESLEY Clark and Pat Llewellyn were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Lieutenant Portia StirlingMack. Lesley and Pat became adherents in the past couple of years but wanted to take a further step into soldiership. Both spoke of the love and welcome that they found in the corps, and said what a privilege it was to walk to the hall in uniform and witness to the community. Pat and Lesley volunteer in the charity shop and Pat has now joined the songsters. – PS-M READING

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

International appointments

The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff

Effective 1 March

COLONEL LANI CHAMNESS, officer of the USA Western Territory, is appointed as Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, Canada and Bermuda Territory

Effective 1 July

LIEUT-COLONELS CHRISTIAN AND CHRISTIANA AZUBUIKE, officers of the Nigeria Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Rwanda and Burundi Territory

LIEUT-COLONELS ELIANISE AND JEAN CLENAT, officers of the Caribbean Territory, are appointed as the Territorial Leaders of the Congo Brazzaville Territory with the rank of colonel; Lieut-Colonel Jean Clenat as Territorial Commander and Lieut-Colonel Elianise Clenat as Territorial President of Women’s Ministries

MAJORS EMMANUEL AND DANCILLE NDAGIJIMANA, officers of the Rwanda and Burundi Territory, are appointed as Territorial Leaders of that territory with the rank of lieut-colonel; Major Emmanuel Ndagijimana as Territorial Commander and Major Dancille Ndagijimana as Territorial President of Women’s Ministries

Effective 1 August

LIEUT-COLONELS EDELINE AND EMMANUEL SUPRE, officers of the Caribbean Territory, are appointed as the Territorial Leaders for that territory with the rank of commissioner; Lieut-Colonel Emmanuel Supre as Territorial Commander and Lieut-Colonel Edeline Supre as Territorial President of Women’s Ministries; Lieut-Colonel Edeline Supre on 1 August and Lieut-Colonel Emmanuel Supre on 2 August

LIEUT-COLONELS EDWARD AND JENNIFER LYONS, officers of the Caribbean Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries of that territory, with the rank of colonel

Wedding anniversaries

Diamond (60 years)

LIEUT-COLONELS JANETTE AND RONALD SMITH on 25 April

Promoted to Glory

ELIZA PEARSON, Bristol Citadel

BRENDA MOOREY, Sale, on 21 March

MAJOR MARGARET WILLIAMS from Hillingdon Hospital on 30 March

AUX-CAPTAIN REGINALD BAILEY from Walsall Manor Hospital on 30 March

MAJOR DAVID LANCELEY from Princess Royal University Hospital on 2 April

Bereaved

ARTHUR MOOREY, Sale, of his wife Brenda Moorey

MAJOR SHARRON LANCELEY of her husband Major David Lanceley

Retirements from active service

Effective 1 April

LIEUT-COLONEL ANN HAWKINS (née Tupling) out of Maltby in 1984 and Lieut-Colonel Kenneth Hawkins out of Maidenhead in 1985, and last appointment IHQ

MAJOR BRYN HARGREAVES out of Connah’s Quay in 1999 and last appointment Prescot

MAJOR KIM GOTOBED (née Denby) out of Worthing in 1985 and Major Nigel Gotobed out of Morley in 1992, and last appointment Poole

MAJOR JONATHAN GREETHAM out of Aldershot in 1986 and last appointment Swanage and Central, Southern and Channel Islands DHQ

ENGAGEMENTS

General Lyndon Buckingham and World

President of Women’s Ministries

Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Fri 12 Apr – Mon 22 Apr Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand Territory

Sat 27 Apr – Sun 28 Apr Isle of Man

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries

Commissioner Shelley Hill

Fri 12 Apr – Fri 19 Apr Korea Territory

Tue 23 Apr ICO Lecture

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

Sat 13 Apr Penge (Retirement of Lieut-Colonel Alan Read)

Fri 19 Apr WBC (Teaching sessions with first year cadets)

Tue 23 Apr Tavistock Square (An Evening with the Free Churches Group)

Fri 26 Apr – Sat 27 Apr Isle of Man

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development

Colonel Julie Forrest

Sat 13 Apr Penge (Retirement of Lieut-Colonel Alan Read)

Mon 15 Apr WBC (15-year celebration of officership)

Wed 17 Apr High Leigh conference centre (pre-retirement seminar)

Fri 19 Apr Strawberry Field

Tue 23 Apr – Thu 25 Apr High Leigh conference centre (Central, Southern and Channel Islands Divisional Retreat)

NOTICES

Wildflower seeds

To help combat a loss of biodiversity in the UK, corps, centres and individuals are invited to order free packets of bee-and-butterfly-friendly wildflower seeds. Whether your corps, centre or home has a garden or outdoor space for containers, simply sow the seeds and leave the flowers to grow. When ordering, you can also share your postcode (not your full address) to help the territory’s Environmental Office draw a map of where the seeds have been sown. This colourful mosaic of caring for creation will be shared at a future date. To take part, visit salvationist.org.uk/wildflower-seeds

Tri-territorial webinar

Join the next tri-territorial webinar on Wednesday 17 April at 9am when Captain Sam Tomlin (Liverpool Stoneycroft) will be among the panellists asking: are we serious about holistic mission? To register, visit salvationist.org.uk/ events

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

Cadet Hannah Carr leads this week’s Sunday Worship

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

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

DUDLEY SALVATION ARMY, 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

HARLOW CORPS, TENDRING ROAD, CM18 6RN 67TH CORPS

ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

Saturday 27 April 6.30pm Festival with Chelmsford Band

Sunday 28 April 10.30am Worship with Chelmsford ensemble

MAIDENHEAD CORPS

THE DATE!

The funeral of Majors Michael and Sheila Warden will be held at Harrowby Lane Methodist Church, Princess Dr, Grantham, NG31 9PY on Thursday 25 April at 12pm followed by a private burial. A buffet lunch will be provided, followed by a service of thanksgiving at 3pm.

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

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‘GOD