Salvationist 14 December 2024

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p/80c 14 December 2024

SALVATIONIST A LIGHT THAT SHINES SHARING THE GOOD NEWS

9-11

Show and tell

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor

ON THE WEBSITE Visit salvationist.org.uk

Territorial leaders’ Advent message Watch the video Top 10 carols Vote in Salvationist Radio’s poll!

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p/80c 14 December 2024

SALVATIONIST

The Light has come!

Talking Christmas with children and the territorial leaders To subscribe, speak to your corps leader or visit sps-shop.com

2

Salvationist 14 December 2024

5 HOW DO WE SHARE THE GOSPEL?

8 OUTREACH CAMP TURNS 20

12+13 HARK! THE HERALDS PAPERS SELL

14 Picture: Paul Harmer

SAINT Francis of Assisi is widely quoted as having said ‘preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words’. It is often more convincing to see something than to simply hear it. Schoolchildren over decades have been encouraged to bring something into the classroom that they are passionate about to both show and tell their classmates about.

Christmas is a time of sharing the good news. We have a story to tell.

It is a story that has been told many times before. It is arguably the most told story ever. It is portrayed in many different ways, but the truth remains the same. And yet how it is received depends largely upon the person telling it. The gospel message is more often seen in the lives of those that tell it than in the words that they use.

As we celebrate Jesus as the light that has come into the world, we need to remember that we reflect that everlasting light to others – not only in our words but also in our actions. If the story that we tell reflects what is in our hearts, then it will be all the more convincing, lighting the way to Jesus.

CAROLS AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

PRAYER GATHERING 2025

SALVATIONIST Issue No 1991

EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

FOUNDERS William and Catherine Booth

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

INTERNATIONAL LEADERS General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Stevie Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Louise Phillips, Joseph Halliday, Oyindamola Olagunju PROOFREADER Chris Horne CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org FRONT COVER Credit: Paul Harmer SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101 © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

ISSN 2516-5909.

The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.

Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton.

@SalvationistUKI @SalvationistUKI

TRENDING

What lies beyond Picture: © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

With Moana 2 out now, Naomi Blowers encourages us to keep moving forward

T

HIS month has seen Moana of Motunui return to cinemas in Moana 2. Set three years after the first film, the sequel follows her as she heads into unknown waters while growing as a leader of her community.

Watching Moana 2 felt like a reminder of my own journey with God. Just like Moana, I feel that inner pull to step beyond what is familiar, trusting even when the path isn’t always clear.

With God, that adventure never ends. Saying yes to a calling is just the beginning of something bigger. There are moments of clarity and there are times when everything feels uncertain. How do

Reflect and respond How might God be using challenges in your life to bring you closer to him, to help you grow in ways you didn’t expect?

Read Romans 8:28. Pray for trust that God is guiding you, even when you don’t know all the answers.

Find out about ways to explore your calling at salvationist.org.uk/calling.

we, as followers of Jesus, keep moving forward when we don’t have all the answers? How do we press on when the way forward requires more patience and perseverance than expected? What do we do when the excitement of the initial call fades, and all that’s left is the quiet act of trusting God’s direction?

Moana’s journey isn’t just about discovering who she is, but deepening her understanding of her purpose. Our walk with God is similar, as we constantly uncover new layers of who we are and what we’re called to do. How often do we forget that growth is a process – that, with each new season, we’re invited to trust God in deeper ways? What if we started seeing struggles not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth?

As Moana’s journey evolves, it also reminds us that what we experience isn’t just for us; it’s meant to impact others, to leave a legacy of wisdom, hope and faith. How can we pass on what we’ve learnt to those around us? How can we encourage others to be part of the story God is writing?

Where are you in your journey with God? You might be contemplating saying yes to God, feeling the fear that, once you commit, your journey is over. But saying yes is just the start of something deeper and more fulfilling. It’s a lifelong

adventure, filled with the constant discovery of who God created you to be.

You might be re-exploring your faith after stepping away or neglecting it because life got in the way. It’s easy to wonder if it’s too late to return, but God’s arms are always open, inviting you to rediscover the purpose and joy of walking with him.

Wherever you are, each step, each decision, is part of the beautiful story God is writing for you. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us: ‘For I know the plans I have for you … plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’

Whether you are saying yes for the first time, stepping back into faith or continuing the adventure you’ve already begun, God is with you. His love will sustain you, his grace will carry you and his plans for you are good, even when the road ahead seems unclear. Don’t let fear or past mistakes keep you from moving forward. With God by your side, what lies beyond is courage and joy, no matter where he leads.

NAOMI BLOWERS Staple Hill

Salvationist 14 December 2024

3

Quiz Go, tell it!

Put your evangelism knowledge to the test

by Garry D Reed 1

Pastor and evangelist John Sung greatly influenced the Christian revival in much of southeast Asia in the 1930s. What was his nationality?

2 ‘For Christ did not send me to

baptise, but to preach the gospel.’ Who wrote these words?

3 Which Salvation Army General’s name means ‘good news’?

4 What does the word ‘gospel’ mean?

5 During the early days of the Army, which group attempted to disrupt open-air evangelical meetings?

6 The following words are

rearranged from the first two lines of a song: Jesus and are we shame of for sin the haunts in witnesses. Name the song.

7 Who was the first person to be stoned to death for preaching about Jesus?

8 Which Baptist preacher and civil

rights leader changed the course of American society with appeals for Christian love and justice?

9 ‘The harvest is plentiful but the

workers are few.’ Who said this?

TESTIMONY

‘I saw God’s hand more clearly than ever’ Maddie Thomas (Bexleyheath) shares her journey to becoming a soldier

M

Y first act as a soldier was to testify to being unbelievably blessed by growing up in a supportive Christian family with strong role models. It’s such a comfort to know that I can turn to any one of my family members for guidance, prayer and encouragement whenever I need it. Their faith has not only shaped who I am, but also continues to inspire me every day.

At university, I explored lots of different churches. It was an amazing time of discovery and growth in my faith. I learnt to seek God with purpose, not out of habit but out of a genuine desire to grow closer to him. I felt my relationship with God deepening in ways I hadn’t experienced before. But, in the midst of that growth, I felt something was missing. There was always this longing to come back to my own church and corps, a pull I couldn’t ignore.

I realised that Bexleyheath is where God has placed me and called me to serve.

University helped me make my faith my own, but it was coming back to the Army that reminded me who I was and where God had placed me.

More recently, life has been incredibly challenging. My father, Brett, was diagnosed with cancer, which was one of the hardest seasons I’d ever faced.

It’s been heartbreaking, exhausting and overwhelming at times. And yet,

10 ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’ In which Gospel do we read these words?

11 According to Sidney Cox, who can tell out the sweet story?

1 Chinese 2 Paul 3 General Evangeline Booth 4 Good news 5 The Skeleton Army 6 ‘We are Witnesses for Jesus’ (SASB 937) 7 Stephen 8 Martin Luther King Jr 9 Jesus 10 Mark 11 You

ANSWERS 4

Salvationist 14 December 2024

Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

in it all, I saw God’s hand more clearly than ever.

Becoming a soldier isn’t a decision I took lightly. It’s taken time and a lot of reflection – and maybe a little prodding from the Holy Spirit – but it’s time. I believe in God’s faithfulness and want my life to reflect that.

As I take this step in becoming a soldier, I do so with a grateful heart, knowing that God has been faithful in my life and will continue to be. I’m excited to serve him and be part of his work in this world through The Salvation Army!

Mission priorities serveseek care share the good news Explained nurture

justice and reconciliation others without discrimination for creation disciples of Jesus

with Major Jonny Smith (THQ) Our intention as a territory is to love God and love others.

How does sharing the good news fit in with that?

Loving God leads us inherently to loving others – and that includes telling them about that love and showing it to them.

The best way to do this is through community as following Jesus is not a journey we go on by ourselves: it’s a journey we go on with other people.

Why is sharing the good news one of our mission priorities?

Jesus instructed his disciples to preach to the whole world. We shouldn’t need someone to tell us to tell others the good news, but people can be reluctant for various reasons. As a Movement, because of our love for God we do all these incredible charitable things to show God’s love to others. God raised us up as a Church that, because of its love for him, engages in charitable ways.

However, sharing the good news is a mission priority because we want – and need – to be clear about why we do what we do.

What is the biblical basis for sharing the good news?

Matthew 28:19: ‘Go and make disciples of all nations.’ The Great Commission is a direct instruction. It also reminds us this is about discipleship: you can’t share the good news unless you know the good news yourself.

John 1:14: ‘The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.’ If we really believe this incredible thing (see John 3:16), then surely we want to tell people about it!

Mark 16:15: ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation’ (English Standard Version). We often think about sharing the good news as going out to people over there, but it’s about being with them over there. The true sense of the manger scene in the Christmas story is that everybody is there.

The good news of Jesus is for all people.

Luke 2:17: ‘When they had seen him, they spread the word.’ Arguably the first evangelists were the shepherds.

Then there’s the Samaritan woman (John 4). All through the Bible, people share the good news as the result of a transformational encounter with Jesus or his followers. The Samaritan woman is remarkable because she goes back to the community that rejected her to share the good news, and they listen and then respond.

Romans 1:16: ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel.’ Often in the Bible, evangelising comes at a cost, which is perhaps why people are resistant about it today, but there’s no better feeling than when you share good news and it has a positive impact. (See 1 Thessalonians 1; Acts 1:8; Luke 7:11–17.)

What does sharing the good news look like in practice?

Telling people about God and living God’s love out with integrity. People long to see authenticity in today’s world.

None of us is perfect, but we have to live out our faith in an authentic way to make the greatest impact.

Intentionally entering other people’s communities. That could be the gym or a sports club, your school or college – wherever your front line is, we’re called to be with people not only to be the good news, but also to share the good news of Jesus to all.

Being in an ongoing relationship with Jesus. This is essential to life in all its fullness with Jesus and, importantly, it doesn’t happen overnight: it’s a journey, constantly asking God to be revealed afresh to you, as there’s always more good news to discover.

Authentic relationships. When we journey in community, it is easier to invite people into that community, which may be inside or outside of a corps hall. It’s through the building of relationships that praying for people and sharing with them become a natural thing. All of us who follow Jesus are

called to love God and love others. If we believe this, then we will long to see the good news lived out and shared to all.

What’s the end goal?

We’re always going to be sharing the good news until Jesus comes again. Until then, we are called to live out Jesus and share the good news of Jesus!

What’s the biggest challenge we face in this mission priority?

As an organisation, there’s a danger that we have become known as a charity before a church. Although our charitable work helps transform lives and is a gateway for relationship-building, which is amazing, if we really believe that Jesus came to give humanity ‘life in all its fullness’, we are falling short as a denomination of the Church if we fail to share the good news. There are so many ways for corps communities to engage with the territory’s other services and journey together more. One without the other will always fall short of God’s mission.

What’s the most encouraging thing about this mission priority?

That sharing the good news of Jesus is not just for evangelists or extroverts. Like every other mission priority, it’s for all of us! That’s exciting!

• For more about the territory’s mission priorities, visit salvationist.org.uk/ our-mission.

Salvationist 14 December 2024

5

BIBLE STUDY

Surrounded by the Captain Vanessa Coleman reminds us that discovering Jesus dispels our fear LUKE 2:1–20

M

Y husband, who grew up in Australia, associates Christmas with long, sun-filled days, sunglasses and sunscreen – with being surrounded by the light. In contrast, I think of light around Christmas as the glow of a candle or sparkling fairy lights struggling against dark winter nights.

PAUSE AND REFLECT If you were overwhelmed not by the darkness of winter but by the light of summer, how might your perception of Jesus as the Light of the world differ?

In our study passage, when the angel appeared and ‘the glory of the Lord shone around them’ (v9), the shepherds were stunned and overwhelmed by the light. The words translated as ‘terrified’ or ‘sore afraid’ (King James Version) we might express today as great fear.

In some Old Testament stories about Moses encountering God, there are similar elements of great fear. At the burning bush on Mount Horeb, Moses had to take off his sandals because he was standing on holy ground (see Exodus 3). On Mount Sinai, Moses was kept safe in the cleft of a rock to catch a glimpse of God’s back (see Exodus 33:22 and 23).

After meeting with God and receiving the Ten Commandments (see Exodus 34:29–35), he had to cover his radiant face with a veil because the people were ‘afraid to come near him’ (Exodus 34:30).

In modern English, the word ‘phobia’ means ‘a persistent, irrational fear of an 6

Salvationist 14 December 2024

object, event, activity, or situation … resulting in a compelling desire to avoid it’. Perhaps the shepherds, surrounded by the light of God’s glory, anticipated impending judgement and punishment.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Why might they have felt the need to hide?

When might we have experienced a compelling desire to avoid God based on a fear of punishment?

Addressing the shepherds, the angel says: ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people’ (v10). It’s as if the angel is saying: ‘What you have seen of God isn’t the whole picture. Yes, God is awesome and mighty and holy, and to be taken seriously and be respected, but God is coming close now and that is good news.’

PAUSE AND REFLECT Do our interactions with others provoke a desire to come close to God or to stay away?

At the height of an Australian summer, its warmth beckons us to strip off our defensive winter layers, as in Aesop’s fable of The North Wind and the Sun. While we need to respect the power of the sun, and take safety seriously, we can also experience its benefits for our wellbeing. Similarly, Jesus offers to defrost our bitter hearts and warm us with the light of his presence and bring us into joyful

connection, into a light we can only dream of in the cold winter of dread and despair.

We see in Jesus the proof that ‘perfect love drives out fear’ (1 John 4:18). We bring to Jesus our fears, our shame, all the things that we know are worthy of judgement. As the light of his glory surrounds them, those fears are melted away by pure love. Sometimes we call that repentance.

Surrounded by the light of Jesus, we shed fear, the habits and patterns and addictions and limits that keep us small, trapped, bitter, broken and destructive – those things that keep us estranged from God and from each other. When we come close to the Light – Jesus – we don’t need to hide ourselves as Moses did. There is no need for shame or fear.

PAUSE AND REFLECT Where does fear have a hold in your life?

Where is joy trying to break through?

When the glory of God shines on us as it did with the shepherds, we don’t need to get stuck in a state of great fear.

Looking to Jesus starts us on the path of transformation – one filled with ‘great joy’. The apostle Paul writes: ‘And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit’ (2 Corinthians 3:18). The same word is used for ‘glory’ here as is used by Luke writing about the ‘glory’ that shone around when the angel appeared to the

As of January 2024, Prayer Matters is following a new prayer rhythm, to pray for renewal in this territory’s worship and mission. Each day has a theme, based on the five mission priorities. To read the unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.

e light shepherds. The glory of God visiting the shepherds is not reserved just for a Bible story: we are also invited to respond and understand his purpose in coming, to be surrounded by his light.

PAUSE AND REFLECT How will you make space to contemplate the glory-light of Jesus this Christmas?

The light goes beyond the pictureperfect image of a halo-glow around a baby in the manger. Jesus tells us: ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12). Gazing into the Light, we are transformed.

The angel announced to the shepherds Jesus as Saviour, Messiah and Lord for all people. The shepherds ‘hurried off’ to see Jesus (v16) and, when they had seen him, they couldn’t help telling everyone they met! Their fear was forgotten and they were swept up in sharing this good news of great joy. They had become lightshiners, no longer overwhelmed and no longer terrified, and also no longer the same.

This Christmas, as you gaze into the Light, be transformed by the Light and shine the Light to others! May God’s great joy fill your heart.

CAPTAIN VANESSA COLEMAN Corps Officer Woking

SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER: CARE FOR CREATION – ENJOYING CREATION How long is it since you’ve flown a kite? Get outside and feel the wind blow the cobwebs away. Pray that the wind of God’s Spirit will blow through you, sweeping out the musty and dusty, giving flight to your dreams, and lightening the mundane things of life.

by Captain Vanessa Coleman (Woking) SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER: SABBATH PRAYER – BELONG TO THE LIGHT Write down or draw five things you want to do which can help you grow as a child of light. What can you do to live according to the light? Where do you need to grow your discipleship? Light is always brightest when it’s joined by others. How can you work with others in your corps/church to shine your light together?

by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team) MONDAY 16 DECEMBER: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – NORTH SCOTLAND DIVISION We pray for all activities taking place over the Christmas period: toy appeals, Messy Church, Café Church, Christmas Day meals and carol services. Father, we pray that, through all that takes place, people will be reminded once again of your son Jesus Christ being light in the darkness.

by Major David Womersley (Shetland) TUESDAY 17 DECEMBER: SERVING AND CARING – PEOPLE WHO LOOK AFTER VOLUNTEERS Lord, we pray for those who support volunteers, who are much in demand but who most of all need time to reflect and pray. Grant them wisdom, patience and a spirit of encouragement, and sustain them in their roles. Guide them to balance their responsibilities with grace and compassion so that volunteers feel appreciated and valued.

by Lydia Kibaara (Volunteer Engagement Manager, THQ) WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER: GROWING IN FAITH – CAROLLING Let’s give thanks for the privilege of living in a country where it is legal to proclaim the message of Jesus in public places, and let’s pray for all those who are out and about playing carols, holding collecting tins or swinging kettles.

by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team) THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – ANGOLA TERRITORY Salvationists have been spreading the gospel of Jesus in Angola for 50 years now, and we thank God for every life touched through their witness. We pray for those who worship and serve with the Army in Angola today, that God will provide for their needs and encourage their hearts. We pray for the territorial leadership team, LieutColonels Stephen and Theresa Malins and Majors Sérgio and Ana Nsumbu.

by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team) FRIDAY 20 DECEMBER: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – CHRISTMAS MEALS Loving God, as corps and centres prepare meals and deliver food parcels to many people who might otherwise go without, may the food provided not only give nourishment but also open up opportunity for sharing something of the real meaning of the Christmas story.

by Mitch Menagh (Assistant Secretary for Mission, THQ) PRAYER REQUESTS Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and it will be upheld in prayer.

Salvationist Day Month 2024

00

Real-life ‘Mario Kart’ racing

Be Our Guest restaurant experience

Charlotte Tanner, Jessica Ball and Major Gary Robb

Preparing for ‘Mario Kart’

The very best week Jessica Ball shares how a summer outreach camp is outreaching summer

T

WENTY years ago, Major Denise Cooper felt inspired by American Salvation Army camps and believed God wanted the same ministry here in the London and South East Divisions. Our summer outreach camp is specifically designed to share the good news with children who don’t know about Jesus or have little experience of church.

This year, Divisional Children’s Worker Charlotte Tanner (London) and I had the life-changing experience of co-directing the camp’s 20th anniversary. Our theme was Blessed and Dressed, inspired by the Message version of Colossians 3:12–14.

These verses provide lots of imagery and creative ideas and ensured a funfilled week where God’s message of love for everyone was central.

The team brought this to life through real-life Mario Kart racing, a ‘trashion’ show, prayer spaces and a Be Our Guest restaurant experience. The children – some of whom wouldn’t ordinarily get a holiday or hear about Jesus – had the very best week.

Our team was brand new, and the energy, excitement, innovation and creativity in our meetings prior to camp were palpable. It resulted in a programme that was exciting, varied, God-centred and filled with so 8

Salvationist 14 December 2024

many God moments that it didn’t seem right to pack up.

In seeking God’s direction, I felt a strong conviction that he wanted to use our resources to introduce Jesus to an even wider group of children: those who didn’t attend camp and were local to our existing church communities.

These ideas were confirmed in a meeting led by Lieutenant David Perkins (Maidstone), who encouraged us to think about our neighbours through the parable of the good Samaritan (see Luke 10:25–37).

Following that meeting, one of our soldiers approached me and explained how the children living in her block of flats – which was across the road from the hall – often have nothing to do and nowhere to go.

I knew that was God confirming how to use our camp resources.

Some weeks later, I met a mum who attends one of our weekly tots groups and lives in the same block of flats with her two children. She shared precious memories from a Salvation Army summer outreach camp she attended as a child.

As she recalled the lyrics to the camp song at that time – ‘Our God Is a Great Big God’ – tears welled in her eyes. She desperately wanted her children to have a similar experience.

Moving forward, the Blessed and

Dressed resource will become a six-week after-school club available to corps within the South East Division, facilitated by Divisional Headquarters staff and supported by corps folk.

The planning meeting with the inaugural corps team included discussions around how we would communicate to families what we’re doing, what skills we had among us and who would become our befrienders, welcomers, chefs, storytellers, crafters and prayer warriors. God had already provided; everyone we needed was in the room! We’ll be ready to start our club at Easter.

Twenty years ago, Denise was challenged by the words of Forest Witcraft. May you be challenged by the same today: ‘A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove.

But the world may be different, because I was important in the life of a [child].’

Please pray for this local venture, but also for Salvation Army outreach camps that take place – they really make a difference.

JESSICA BALL Divisional Children’s Worker South East Division

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH THE SALVATION ARMY REPORT

A light-filled celebration Pictures: Paul Harmer

ROYAL ALBERT HALL

Territorial Leader Commissioner Paul Main WITH carol medleys ‘Christmas Presence’ offered by the International Staff Band and ‘The Triumph of the Skies’ from the International Staff Songsters still ringing in their ears, the congregation were welcomed to this year’s territorial carol concert by Territorial Leader Commissioner Paul Main, writes Editor Major Julian Watchorn.

Commissioner Paul set the theme of the concert, saying: ‘Christmas is a time of light. The everlasting light coming to Earth to dispel the darkness, to bring hope and the promise of peace.’

The opportunity to sing carols in such an iconic venue is part of the joy of this annual event and the congregation were in good voice for the first carol, ‘Hark! the Herald Angels Sing’, introduced by a trumpet fanfare.

The Salvation Army Big Band returned by popular demand, sharing a contemporary rendition of ‘Sleigh Ride’.

This lively number sat in contrast to the gentle tones of ‘Lux Aurumque’, brought by the ISS, which is based on a Latin poem that translates as: ‘Light, warm and heavy as pure gold, and the angels sing softly to the newborn babe.’

Readings from Judy Cornwell, Jack Dee, Sally Dexter and Paul Burrell affirmed the context of the evening, interweaving beautifully the Christmas story from Scripture between congregational carols and musical items.

Carols included favourites such as ‘The

First Nowell’, ‘Joy to the World!’, ‘A Starry Night’ and ‘Once in Royal David’s City’.

Guest soloists Belinda Gifford-Guy (2023 BBC Young Chorister of the Year) and Anais Spencer (New Addington) brought an enchanting performance of ‘Nella Fantasia’. The Italian lyrics, set to the theme from The Mission by Ennio Morricone, spoke of a dream of a brighter world.

The Salvation Army Big Band, comprising members from across the territory, raised the roof with a catchy version of ‘Feliz Navidad’, which had people dancing in the aisles.

The mood changed again as the ISB brought the reflective piece ‘Everlasting Light’, followed by the ISS, who sang ‘The Quiet Heart’.

The work of the Army’s Homelessness Services was spotlighted, specifically the work of Tŷ Gobaith Lifehouse in Cardiff. Two heart-warming video clips introduced several individuals who have been helped by the centre, before Major John Stark, the Lifehouse’s chaplain, was interviewed by Commissioner Paul, giving insight into his work and ministry.

Vocal group Una Voce and the Salvation Army Big Band shared an engaging version of ‘This Little Light of Mine’, before Territorial Leader Commissioner Jenine Main brought the message for the evening.

Illustrated with examples of where darkness can seem overwhelming and

where light can seem in short supply or insufficient, Commissioner Jenine spoke confidently of the everlasting light that God sent into the world through Jesus. She emphasised how the light gives us confidence to walk through life without fear, illuminates the path before us, brings hope when we are enveloped in hopelessness, guides us to freedom when we feel trapped in, leads us out of despair, and enables us to step out and live in truth and honesty.

‘Three Kings Swing’ and ‘Celebrate the Child Who Is the Light’ were delivered by the ISB and ISS with style.

Anais and Khaim Spencer (New Addington) brought ‘Little Did They Know’, a composition they had written for the occasion. It told the story of the Nativity from the viewpoint of those involved.

The finale saw a Nativity scene brought to the stage to the combined sounds of ‘Angels, from the Realms of Glory’ from all participants. This spectacle was a powerful visual presentation of the gospel.

No carol concert would be complete without ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’, which concluded this celebration of God’s everlasting light.

• Watch a recording at youtube.com/ salvationarmyvideo or listen to highlights on BBC Radio 4 at 7am on Christmas Day. Salvationist 14 December 2024

9

IN PICTURES

1

2

Celebrating Christmas Highlights from the carol concert 9 8

7

1 The International Staff Songsters 2 The Nativity scene 3 A procession of candles builds up to the Nativity scene 4 Anais and Khaim Spencer 5 The International Staff Band 6 Territorial Leader Commissioner Jenine Main 7 Una Voce 8 Anais Spencer and Belinda Gifford-Guy 9 The Salvation Army Big Band 10

Salvationist 14 December 2024

3 Pictures: Paul Harmer

4

6 5

11

Read all about it!

Stevie Hope finds out how the Army’s magazines are helping corps spread the good news

I

F you’re reading this, you may be familiar with Salvationist – but when it comes to sharing the good news, the real stars are our sister publications!

As the territory’s outward-facing magazines, Kids Alive! and War Cry make the good news of Jesus accessible to everyday passers-by, young and old.

They’re missional resources ready-made to help with outreach, so you don’t have to prepare anything – you just have to put a copy in someone’s hand.

The classic tradition of heralding is alive and thriving today: you’ll find many a corps member stood on a street corner handing out the papers with a cheery smile and word of goodwill.

‘We have a team who stand in the town every Saturday morning,’ affirms Territorial Envoy Roger Coates (Dunstable). ‘They connect with regulars, sharing life events and offering prayer support.’

In Winton, the heralding team sell the War Cry and Kids Alive! from three stands in the area.

In Tunstall, Gerald ‘The Herald’ Newton (left) has been

on duty at the market every Friday and Saturday for more than 20 years.

‘He is an inspiration to many in his faith and witness, despite experiencing tragic family loss,’ says Mandie Leighton (Tunstall). ‘His cheerful nature and great sense of humour make him very popular.

He recently celebrated his 89th birthday and had plenty of birthday wishes from the shoppers!’

Being a herald doesn’t have to be a weekly commitment: it could be something you do during carolling season or as an activity for Lent. It could be a monthly initiative – no matter what time of year it is, each issue is already written and easy to share with others.

Traditional heralding isn’t the only option either. In recent years, people have found the magazines useful for outreach in all sorts of ways. One popular approach is using them to add hope and joy to food, toy or practical parcels.

For Advent, Beccles Corps ordered an extra 50 copies of each magazine, which have gone into Everlasting Light goody bags aimed at children and adults who are new to church. The corps is praying this will raise awareness of the corps and encourage new folk to join them.

‘We used Kids Alive! as prizes in a community Easter egg hunt,’ adds Captain Katy Shubotham (Welling).

‘We also place copies on tables every week for the coffee morning and lunch club. If we don’t use them all, corps folk take them to doctors, dentists, libraries, nail bars and hair salons for people to read. One salon even donated vouchers to our Christmas appeal in return!’

The publications don’t just speak for themselves: they’re handy conversationstarters. Roger points to a recent community day in Dunstable and highlights how they offered an easy avenue into faith-based chats.

‘The day gave many of our folk a chance to get involved,’ he shares, ‘and they enjoyed talking about their faith and the Army. War Cry and Kids Alive! made that easy to do.’

In Consett, schoolteacher Rebecca Waters uses Kids Alive! to help promote reading for pleasure: ‘Once a week, the children are encouraged to read whatever they want. The magazine is popular because of the interactive activities. As an adherent at the corps, I believe in reaching out to the community, and schools are a great place to start.’

Katy highlights that the accessibility of War Cry and Kids Alive! makes them such impactful handouts: ‘The magazines offer something of God and faith, but they also have offerings that attract people who aren’t of faith. Kids Alive!

is especially brilliant, because it’s far cheaper than any other kids’ magazine.’

For corps selling to the public, a copy of Kids Alive! costs 25p and a copy of War Cry costs 20p. With a public cover price of 50p each, that means each corps benefits from additional funds every time they sell a copy.

‘They don’t require a huge investment and they make a great addition to any activity,’ Katy adds. ‘They guarantee us one more way of expressing the gospel.

We have a gentleman who pops into the coffee morning once a month to pick up War Cry for himself and his wife, and Kids Alive! for his grandchildren – they really do help build relationships!’

If all this has your mind whirring about how Kids Alive! or War Cry could amplify outreach in your setting, Roger offers some encouragement: ‘Do it without hesitation.’

• To order copies of War Cry or Kids Alive! for your corps, email subscriptions@ satcol.org or call 01933 445 445.

STEVIE HOPE Editorial Assistant Salvationist

Pauline Hoare

Irene Wrigley

How often do you herald?

How often do you herald?

Ideally, two or three times a week.

It depends on the weather.

Weekly. I’ve done so for about three years.

Why do you give your time?

Why do you give your time?

I enjoy it! I’m elderly and take pleasure in it when so many other things are difficult. I like meeting people, and my regulars and I look out for each other.

God uses me to pass on the good news about Jesus and his love! I love meeting people on their terms. I have the privilege of going out to meet the public.

What would you tell someone considering heralding?

What would you tell someone considering heralding?

Sharing in people’s lives is a real blessing. The people I meet lift my spirits, and I get far more out of it than I can explain. Give it a go – I started years ago and never looked back!

To be a herald you need to be a pleasant person, able to smile and listen and be willing to meet people where they are. I always offer prayer and God’s blessing too.

Andover

Aberystwyth

Salvationist 14 December 2024

13

PREVIEW

Standing strong Major Gary Lacey looks forward to the 2025 Encounter Prayer Gathering

T

HE opening of Charles Dickens’s epic novel A Tale of Two Cities declares: ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.’ The times we live in – coupled with our individual daily lives – bring new challenges for us every day. We celebrate the best of times and we experience the worst of times – sometimes in the space of a couple of minutes! As Christians, we need to be able to stand strong in both.

The word of God gives us some brilliant keys to unlocking our understanding of how to stand firm and withstand anything that both the

SAVE THE DATE WHAT Encounter Prayer Gathering WHEN 24–26 January 2025 WHERE University of Warwick BOOK YOUR PLACE salvationist.org.uk/encounter

14

Salvationist 14 December 2024

Enemy and the world can throw at us.

The 2025 Encounter Prayer Gathering will encourage us to do just that.

Taking place at The Slate conference centre at the University of Warwick, the event will run from Friday 24 January to Sunday 26 January.

The weekend will bring Salvationists together to worship, receive teaching, pray and encounter Jesus Christ of Nazareth and have memorable encounters with people from all over the UK and Ireland Territory.

The theme will be Stand, based on the incredible verses of Exodus 14:13 and 14, which say: ‘Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will accomplish for you today.

For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace’ (New King James Version).

From this Scripture, we will take a fresh look at spiritual warfare and the role prayer plays, looking at a much broader

picture of how we can stand in the face of all the world sends our way.

As well as teaching from myself and Lyndall Bywater from the UKI Boiler Room team, worship will be led by Cath Woolridge and the Sound of Wales. There will be various seminar-style sessions, plus opportunities to relax, pray and be prayed with by our team, who have great experience in prayer ministry. It’s going to be epic!

Tickets are available to book until 5 January 2025. We believe that God has something big to say to us as we encounter him. He wants to equip us for the now and the days ahead.

Are you ready to listen? Are you ready to stand strong?

MAJOR GARY LACEY Territorial Prayer Coordinator THQ

ARMY UPDATES

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

ENVIRONMENT

ARMY NEWS

SHEFFIELD CITADEL Nearly 60 musicians gathered for a Yorkshire Youth Band reunion concert. Former players and leaders joined the current crop of young people – aged between 12 and 30 – in a time of music-making, reconnecting and fellowship. Made up of young Salvationist musicians from across the division, the group has seen multiple iterations throughout its close to 50-year history. Its very first leader, Les Thompson (Leeds Central), now 88, was in attendance to support. – JC

WATFORD The corps hosted the Inclusive Multi Academy Trust’s first Eco Summit. About 60 primary school children from Beechfield School, Cherry Tree Primary School and Laurance Haines Primary School discussed water conservation and pledged to be eco champions in their community. The corps has formed community partnerships to help care for creation. – MS

CHRISTMAS CLOWNE The annual Christmas fair saw 150 folks traverse the hall. Stalls included pre-loved items, books, cakes, crafts, beauty and skincare products, hand knits, handmade crafts and Christmas cards, as well as bacon cobs, Christmas cake, stollen, mince pies and hot drinks. The event raised £800 for corps funds. – GH WELLING The corps made it their mission to attend the town’s Christmas lights switch-on. They interacted with hundreds of families and made some brilliant links, including an invitation into a local school. Families had the opportunity to create tree decorations, Christmas cards and a special Nativity story wheel and they all left with a goody bag of chocolate and a Christmas story. – KS

LONDON THE Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) won Best Benefits Launch/Relaunch at the Appreciation awards 2024. The awards recognise outstanding HR teams across the UK. SATCoL Head of HR and Training Sarah Trivett said: ‘Our big focus over recent years has been to surpass our colleagues’ expectations and aspirations as an employer of choice.’

New benefits include SmartTech to help spread the costs of appliances, a salary sacrifice Cycle2Work scheme and a holiday purchase scheme. A funded virtual GP benefit was also introduced in April. – AR

ANNIVERSARY KILMARNOCK As part of the 142nd corps anniversary, Assistant Divisional Commander Major Sarah Price and Divisional Mission Officer Major Mark Price led the Sunday morning meeting.

Number one on the roll Songster Leader Enid Dawson and Billy Stitt, the newest soldier, cut a cake. They are pictured with corps officers Captains Emma and Les Heal. – EF

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

COMMUNITY TEDDINGTON Corps officer Lieutenant Joel Watson delivered a seminar to fourth-year medical students about how compassion is expressed and whether compassion can be measured.

With a particular focus towards interacting with people experiencing homelessness, the seminar included sharing the Army’s ongoing work tackling the issue. – EW

SATCoL wins employee recognition award

LEIGH-ON-SEA Young people from around the division gathered for a sleepover. Over the weekend, they learnt about Joshua, the armour of God and how they can live their lives boldly, bravely and courageously with Jesus. The weekend concluded with morning worship, where a kazoo band united with the corps band in a fantastic rendition of ‘I’ll Go in the Strength of the Lord’ (SASB 959). – HP

COMMUNITY FOREST OF DEAN Partnering the Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home, the corps hosted a pop-up veterinary clinic for people struggling with pet maintenance bills. The clinic provided free health checks, microchipping, worming and general consultations. In addition, pet owners were welcomed with fresh coffee and cake, with corps members on hand to offer support, conversation and signposting to other services. – AR

ENVIRONMENT TEDDINGTON Corps members went litter-picking to care for creation locally.

Many bags of rubbish were collected from the streets, all while having some great conversations with people. – EW Salvationist 14 December 2024

15

TRIBUTES

MAJOR JEAN PHILLIPS BORN in Douglas on the Isle of Man, Jean Mylrea entered the International Training College as a cadet of the Intercessors session in 1951.

Following commissioning in 1952, she was appointed to Hoxton Goodwill.

Jean married Lieutenant Bernard Phillips in 1954, and they were blessed with three children, Pauline, Lynda and Trevor.

They shared 64 happy years together until Bernard was promoted to Glory in 2018.

Along with Bernard, Jean served as a corps officer until 1979, when they were transferred to the North London Divisional Headquarters where Jean became the divisional league of mercy secretary.

She then took responsibility for the International Youth Sponsorship Scheme.

In 1992 they transferred to International Headquarters, from where they entered retirement.

Jean, although a quiet person, possessed a special gift of being able to speak to anyone anywhere and was also a good listener. She is now at peace with her Lord, and with her beloved Bernard.

Jean is greatly missed by her family and friends. – LP Please note members’ tributes that are submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words.

Tributes for officers should be no longer than 300 words.

Good quality pictures will be included. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication.

Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

GARTH GUNN POOLE GARTH Gunn was born to Salvationist parents in 1942 in Mansfield. His gift for ‘drumming’ at the age of three years commenced with his first solo at the Army home league weekend, his mother being the home league secretary.

At the age of 12, Garth joined the Drummers Fraternal with Brigadier Webb. In 1966 Garth moved to Poole in Dorset with his wife, Christine.

He was a devoted bandsman, loved singing and was band secretary and corps press representative until the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Garth’s other passions in life were long-distance walking and gardening, until his brave battle with Parkinson’s disease and cancer limited these.

Garth is dearly missed by his devoted wife, sons Carl and Craig and four grandchildren.

Servant of God, well done! – KG 16

Salvationist 14 December 2024

DOREEN GREEN DEAL DOREEN was born in December 1937 to the sound of carols by Deal Band. She later joined Sunday school and gave her life to Jesus.

Doreen married Terry, a musician in the British Army, in 1957 at Deal Corps. Terry’s service took Doreen to live in all sorts of different places, including East and West Germany, Northern Ireland and Cyprus.

When Terry retired from the military, the family moved to Deal. Doreen returned to Deal Corps, serving God by welcoming all who came through the doors and being a friend to all. She would sing beautifully in the songsters. Doreen loved children.

She trained to become a children’s nursery school supervisor and ran a local playgroup, positively impacting many hundreds of children’s lives.

Doreen was a loving and gentle lady, devoted to her five children, six grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. She was promoted to Glory aged 86. – LW

TREVOR GOTOBED

BLACKPOOL CITADEL BORN into a Salvationist family at Morley in 1942, Trevor enjoyed being a junior soldier, before joining the YP band, songsters and senior band. In addition, he led the singing company and male voice party.

Trevor and his wife of 64 years, Wendy, then moved to soldier at Leeds Central, where they continued their faithful service for the Lord, before taking up the opportunity to move to Lytham St Annes, where they enjoyed retirement and attended Blackpool Citadel.

While at the corps, Trevor was recruited to manage a new outreach initiative called the Bridge Project, a day centre for vulnerable people and people experiencing homelessness. He often spoke about this valuable work, calling it the best job he ever had!

Trevor fought a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease for a number of years.

His family take comfort in the knowledge that he is at peace and receiving his heavenly reward. – MG

NORMA BARTRAM WORKSOP BORN in 1940 in Langold, Norma’s faith in Jesus was encouraged from an early age. Norma married Len in 1962 and had four children: Jackie, Gregg, Rachel and Andrew. She was always drawn to The Salvation Army due to historic family connections. A conversation with the corps officer in Worksop town centre led Norma to take her children to the corps. From there, her connection with the Army developed and, as her faith in Jesus grew, she was enrolled as a soldier. Norma became the pianist for the singing company and later became the home league secretary. The life and soul of any gathering, Norma thrived on being with people. She loved to organise trips and social gatherings, using her God-given gift of hospitality to serve others.

Norma’s love of music never left her, and she always managed to use her voice to sing praise for her Saviour. – RP

NEW COMMITMENTS

SITTINGBOURNE

BISOLA, Lenaick, Evelyn, Elaine and Jim were welcomed as adherents by Major Simon Perkin during the 140th corps anniversary weekend. The following weekend, Lewis Smith was welcomed as an adherent by Major Simon. Lewis testified to how welcoming and friendly the corps fellowship had been and how the hand of God has guided him. Three of the new adherents have attended for some time and three are recent arrivals to the fellowship. Also pictured is Adherents Secretary Janis Wigg. – DJ

DUNDEE

CAROL Travers was enrolled as a soldier by Divisional Intergenerational Officer Major Ann Stewart. Major Ann’s message to Carol and those who attended, including Carol’s daughter and grandchildren, was to ‘put on the full armour of God’ (Ephesians 6:13). Pictured with Carol and Major Ann are Lynne Gauton and Bandmaster Bill Bennett, who is holding the flag. – AS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

ISABEL was enrolled as a junior soldier by Major Simon Perkin.

Isabel has been attending since she was a few days old and joins her brother, Sam, who was enrolled as a junior soldier a couple of years ago. – DJ

CAMBRIDGE CITADEL

EMILY Ward was welcomed as an adherent during Harvest Sunday worship by Major Andrea Cooper (THQ). Emily testified to the significance of the corps as her spiritual home and spoke beautifully of God’s work in her life. Emily is pictured with corps officers Majors Leanne and Martin Cordner. Holding the flag is Corps Sergeant-Major Norman Hunt. – MC SOPHIE Atkinson was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Captain Zoe Smith. Sophie attended another church until she joined her fiancé, Jay Wallace, at the corps two years ago. Family and friends were present as Sophie made her commitment to the Lord and shared her testimony of God’s grace and her passion for the Army’s focus on loving God and loving others. Also pictured is youth leader Christine Wickham. – GS

WHAT DOES BEING A SOLDIER OR ADHERENT MEAN? Find out more about membership of The Salvation Army and the different ways in which you can make a spiritual commitment at salvationist.org. uk/membership.

Salvationist 14 December 2024

17

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

ENGAGEMENTS

Local officers appointed

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR NEALL GARRAD, Wood Green

Thu 19 Dec All Hallows, London (Churches Conservation Trust)

CRADLE ROLL SERGEANT / PARENT-AND-TODDLER GROUP LEADER / COMPANY GUARD SYLVIA LEACH, Wood Green ASSISTANT CORPS SERGEANTMAJOR / LADIES FELLOWSHIP (WOMEN OF HOPE) LEADER MARTINA REID, Wood Green LADIES FELLOWSHIP (WOMEN OF HOPE) LEADER SONIA WESTNEY, Wood Green

NOTICES

Christmas top 10: Vote for your favourite carol!

Salvationist Radio will be presenting a festive chart show featuring the top 10 carols as voted for by you! Vote at salvationist.org.uk/radio before 15 December.

Be a Star!

Get ready for your Christmas fundraising and community outreach with the Be a Star! resources. They include editable donation cards and collection tin wrap, ideas and materials for planning community meals, and Christmas Present Appeal resources.

Download them at salvationist.org.uk/resources/christmas.

Promoted to Glory JOHN PEACH, Winton

Publications: Delivery dates over Christmas

RETIRED SONGSTER LEADER / BAND RESERVIST KENNETH RICHARDSON, Potton

There will be no 28 December edition of Salvationist, Kids Alive! or War Cry. Each publication will begin the new year with a 4 January issue, which will begin to be delivered to corps later this month, dependent on weather, location and scheduling.

For any questions or concerns, please email subscriptions@satcol.org.

JANET WRIGHT, Sheffield Citadel MAJOR JENNIFER WARREN from Colchester Hospital on 2 September BANDSMAN KENNETH STONES, Milton Keynes Central, on 15 November

In memory: Online wall of remembrance The Salvation Army has introduced an online wall of remembrance that allows people to share memories and photos of loved ones when they don’t always know what to say.

This virtual wall is free to use and a donation to the Army is optional. Access the page at thesalvationarmy.dedicationpage.org.

Bereaved MARY PEACH, Winton, of her husband John Peach, Caroline Banning, Winton, of her father MAUREEN STONES, Milton Keynes Central, of her husband Bandsman Kenneth Stones MAJOR GEORGE WARREN of his wife Major Jennifer Warren, Major Beverley Womersley, Shetland, of her mother

Long service 30 years MAJOR DAVID BETTERIDGE, Mission Service, THQ

Retirements from active service Effective 1 December CAPTAIN ELIZABETH DAVIES out of Peterhead in 1982 and last appointment Central and Southern Scotland DHQ LIEUT-COLONEL JUDITH PAYNE (née Holliday) out of Regent Hall in 1984 and last appointment Territorial Leaders’ Office, THQ 18

Salvationist 14 December 2024

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Washington Gwenzi (William Booth College). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: The Podcast The weekly Advent devotional podcast continues a series of reflections on the words of Christmas carols, inspired by the book of the same name. Episodes are released each Friday. This week, Territorial Commander Colonel Dean Pallant (Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory) talks about ‘The Surprise’.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts.

Morning Praise with Kids Alive!

Get your day started with half an hour of music, prayer, a thought and lots of giggles!

Listen on Saturdays from 7.30am to 8am. Can’t tune in on Saturday morning? The broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 9am and Mondays at 7.30am.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

Sunday Wake-Up with Lyndall Bywater Ease yourself into the day with a relaxed mix of music, chat and a few inspirational moments to stir your soul. Listen from 7am to 9am on Sundays.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.

ADVERTS

RECRUITING NOW DIVISIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE COORDINATOR

with the

SATURDAY 18 JANUARY 2025, 6PM

Regent Hall 275 Oxford Street, London W1C 2DJ With Marjory Watson (vocal soloist), Regent Hall Band, United singing companies and Celebration Choir Tickets: £15 and £10 from Brownpapertickets EASTLEIGH CORPS

CELEBRATION OF SERVICE AND RETIREMENT OF TERRITORIAL ENVOY MARGARET MOORE Saturday 11 January 2025, 2.30pm Please send cards/messages to: Major Adrian Maddern, The Salvation Army, Blenheim Road, Eastleigh SO50 5SD or adrian.maddern@salvationarmy.org.uk

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.

The Salvation Army in London, as part of its ministry, responds primarily in support of the London Fire Brigade (LFB) at significant incidents across all London boroughs, through the deployment of three incident response vehicles (IRVs) that serve sandwiches, snacks and drinks to emergency workers. Our on-scene responders are often called upon to provide pastoral care as well.

We are looking for an emergency response coordinator, who will act as the point of contact for LFB (Activation phase) and the Response Vehicle Coordinators (Response phase). Strong experience of working in a similar role is essential. The ideal candidate will be willing and able to operate on a 24/7/365 on-call basis (except for holidays and other agreed absences).

You will be responsible for: monitoring, administering and utilising the communication platform to ensure a swift first response and to request relief crews, live incident replenishment and vehicle recovery; ensuring the legal compliant status of the three IRVs, visiting each base at least monthly to conduct checks; ensuring vehicles remain at constant readiness through regular vehicle and stock/supplies checks.

You will also support the divisional emergency response officer in the recruitment and training of volunteer and officer responders. Previous experience of developing and supporting a team of people to enable the delivery of a service is essential. Ideally, experience or knowledge of working with/in the emergency services professions would be desirable.

Salary £17.88 per hour Working hours 16 hours per week Contract Fixed term: 12 months Location Based anywhere in London, travel required within M25 Details Contributory pension scheme; 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata); employee assistance programme Closing date Mon 30 December Interviews held Date TBC

For full details and to apply, visit careers.salvationarmy.org.uk Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality in the workplace.

Salvationist Day Month 2024

00

O T N O D

T

O B U A E L P O E P L L E T TO OUR LORD

2 TIMOTHY 1:8 NEW CENTURY VERSION

SALVATIONIST