Salvationist 15 April 2023

SALVATIONIST

IN IT TOGETHER STEPPING INTO SHALOM

At the heart of it

WITH Easter behind us, the chocolate celebration that many experience around this time may prompt some to reconsider gym membership. However, as any faithful fitness enthusiast will tell you, it is not enough to simply belong. To make a positive impact requires participation and commitment.

On pages 10 and 11, Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe discusses a new initiative around what it means to belong to The Salvation Army in this territory.

We are also reminded in our Bible study that, if we are to live out our faith, then God’s word needs to be hidden or stored in our hearts. That is where it belongs. And when God and his word are at the centre of all that we are and do, our actions are in response to that indwelling.

On page 14, Major Kathy Betteridge explains why running the London Marathon helps The Salvation Army to help others gain confidence by participating through the work of the Anti-Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery team.

This is nothing new. William Booth was imploring the Army’s comrades in his day to cultivate and cherish a friendly spirit. For if we are to have friends, we must show ourselves friendly.

Love God, love others.

JULIAN WATCHORN EDITOR

MAJOR

Issue No 1905 Visit

Right Tracks

Listen

Events

EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey

ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips

PROOFREADER Chris Horne

CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

FOUNDER William Booth

GENERAL Brian Peddle

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Major Julian Watchorn

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS

101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 0845 634 0101

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.

Walking and listening

pilgrimage destinations in the world, equipped with backpacks, water bottles and a map on a phone. The landscape is gorgeous and there’s much history to discover, but the richest terrain they explore is each other’s values.

REFLECT AND RESPOND

WHAT if the real journey was the friends we made along the way? That’s the kind of tongue-in-cheek joke you might make as Pilgrimage returns to BBC Two for its fifth season. But the beauty of the series is that really is the case. The show sees a group of well-known personalities take on a modern-day pilgrimage. They don’t have to complete gruelling stunts or compete for cash prizes: they just talk to each other, and listen.

The latest season, which started on Friday 7 April and is available in full on BBC iPlayer, follows seven people with a range of faiths and beliefs: actor Su Pollard, raised in the Church of England, Jewish actress Rita Simons, Pentecostal Christian – and former Boyzone member – Shane Lynch, agnostic reality TV star Vicky Pattison, Bobby Seagull, a practising Catholic, Paralympic skier Millie Knight, who is non-practising Church of England, and comedian Nabil Abdulrashid, who’s a practising Muslim.

They meet in Portugal, ready to travel the Northern Way. Over 15 days and 364km, they head for the sanctuary in Fatima, one of the biggest Catholic

Reality TV is so often designed to bring out the worst in people. Pilgrimage stands out by cultivating an environment of curiosity, respect and kindness. While that can mean the occasional heated exchange – such as whether to buy a cauliflower in a supermarket – and even fundamental disagreements, that doesn’t stop them from sharing joy in the camaraderie and understanding that blossom between them. It’s not that they dismiss or ignore each other’s views, but that they value one another for them and what they bring to the group.

Writing to early Christian churches, James said: ‘Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry’ (1:19). That order – listening first and speaking second – can be easier said than done, but it’s warmly demonstrated by BBC Two’s pilgrims. They are all open and vulnerable in the connections they form, sincerely listening and learning as well as sharing. They also put their kind words into action, helping each other down steps, carrying each other’s bags and making gestures of harmony and solidarity.

‘Being with you guys has helped me to connect more and made the experience even better and stronger for me,’ says Millie at one point.

‘I haven’t got anything that I believe in

Read Ecclesiastes 4:9 and 10. If you fall down, who helps you up?

Consider 1 Thessalonians 5:11 and Proverbs 27:5 and 6. How can you be a good friend to others?

When was the last time you listened before speaking?

that much. But I would really like to,’ Vicky admits at another.

Loving others and seeing the best in one another is clearly something that appeals, as Pilgrimage is one of the BBC’s most popular faith programmes: it drew an average of 2.1 million viewers last year.

As an Army, we can similarly show God’s love to the world in the way we love each other, finding kindness, respect and unity in our diversity. What makes that journey even more beautiful is that along the way we deepen our own understanding of God’s love for us. Who are you walking with today?

IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist

Continuing a series of topical reflections, Ivan Radford considers the example set by BBC Two’s Pilgrimage: The Road through Portugal

Picture: BBC / CTVC

seconds with...

EXPL A INED

adherent

ACROSS the globe there are 172,438 people who identify as Salvation Army adherents!

In Army parlance, adherency is a type of membership. These members are called adherents.

The Salvation Army Year Book 2022 defines an adherent as ‘a person who regards The Salvation Army as their spiritual home but has not made a commitment to soldiership’. Adherency is expressed differently across the Army world, although the following framework – which is used in the UK and Ireland Territory – is a widely accepted model.

An adherent must be at least 14 years old and not an active member of any other religious body. They sign a Certificate of Recognition confirming that they are a person who:

l believes in the Lord Jesus Christ and seeks to follow and be like him;

l participates in the worship, fellowship, service and support of a local Salvation Army congregation;

l and identifies with the Army’s mission statement.

In return, The Salvation Army recognises this positive step in the member’s personal journey of faith and pledges its ongoing encouragement and pastoral guidance.

Could adherency be the right step for you?

Speak to your corps officer or read more at salvationist.org.uk/ membership

‘Up on the summit, we could sense God around us’

Major Chris Davidson (Rhyl) testifies to how he has seen God in his travels

IHAVE been a Salvationist all my life.

My mum was a Salvationist, so I attended the corps in Hull and grew up through the ranks. The one thing that kept me going to the Army was my interest in music. I testify unashamedly that if it wasn’t for the YP band and the fellowship and the people there, I may have wandered away.

In 2018, I saw the adverts to go hiking in China with The Salvation Army. I thought, ‘Why not? I’ve got a good level of fitness.’ I also wanted to fundraise for the Army and the expedition raised funds for its anti-trafficking work. The group I went with was great, a mixture of Salvationists and nonSalvationists. We hiked parts of the Great Wall of China and had 10 days to do that. It was stunning to see how and where it was built. I was astonished to read how people lived and died building it.

Last year, I was in Morocco and I climbed Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in northern Africa. It was incredible but the hardest thing I have ever done. The altitude and the 40-degree heat meant walking for 14 to 15 hours a day was hard. But the views were absolutely stunning. I did the climb to raise funds for Rhyl Corps and for the community work we do there. Along the way and up on the summit, we could sense God in all

the creation around us.

We thought, if someone doesn’t believe in God, then they should come up here. It takes your breath away. When you look at the intricacies of the landscape and the wildlife, there has got to be a Creator.

My relationship with God has become deeper and richer through my experiences in officership, in particular seeing people’s lives transformed in Rhyl. It is a deprived area and the Army is right in the middle of it. We are helping

Welcome to the High Council

Salvationist introduces the welcome event for the 2023 High Council

SENIOR leaders from across the international Salvation Army will be gathering in the UK this May for the 2023 High Council. They will spend time in prayer and discussion before engaging in the solemn task of electing the 22nd General of The Salvation Army.

General Brian Peddle comments: ‘We are approaching a time of change and The Salvation Army is about to commence a new chapter. This next chapter is critical, but it is in God’s hands. The journey to a High Council meeting is rich with much preparation, planning and anticipation. It is a solemn and serious time as the High Council membership are tasked with electing the next General of The Salvation Army.’

Under the terms of the Salvation Army Act (1980), the law requires that the High Council is held in the UK. Before the High Council members meet at Sunbury Court, Salvationists and supporters will have the opportunity to worship with them and uphold them in prayer at the official Welcome to the High Council. Taking place at Central Hall Westminster on Saturday 20 May, the event will celebrate an important moment in the life of the Army, as well as honour and give thanks for the ministry of the current international leaders, General Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, as they prepare to enter retirement.

The afternoon will feature contributions from many different Salvation Army musicians, including African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe, the International Staff Songsters, the International Staff Band and Konverse Dance Crews. The IHQ praise team will

support worship throughout the meeting. SP&S will also host a resource stall at the venue.

Commissioner Rosalie Peddle comments: ‘For Salvationists, all around the world, now is the time to come together in prayerful support for our leaders. This is also a time for jubilation, thanksgiving, and praise as we thank God for his goodness!’

The General adds: ‘As we welcome the High Council at Westminster Central Hall on 20 May, we invite you to join us in thanking God for the faithfulness that has covered our story so far, and praising God for the days yet to come.’

Doors will open at 3.15pm and music will begin at 3.30pm, before the meeting starts at 4pm. Tickets to join the congregation are free, with seats in the balcony, accessible seating in the stalls and spaces for wheelchair users all available to book online at sar.my/welcome

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The meeting will be signed by a British Sign Language interpreter and a hearing loop will be available. The event will also be live-streamed on the IHQ website for anyone who is not able to attend in person.

The UKI Territory is privileged to host this historic event and the General is keen to welcome everyone from all parts of the territory.

SAVE THE DATE

WHEN: Saturday 20 May

WHERE: Central Hall Westminster BOOK YOUR TICKET: sar.my/welcome

HIGH COUNCIL TIMELINE

Tuesday 4 April

The Chief of the Staff formally summons the High Council.

Thursday 18 May High Council members are welcomed to Sunbury Court.

Saturday 20 May

The Welcome to the 2023 High Council takes place in London.

Monday 22 May High Council commences. Daily news bulletins will be published at sar.my/highcouncil

Sunday 21 May High Council members share together in worship at Sunbury Court.

Date TBC

The President announces the new General-elect and the news is live-streamed around the world.

I have hidden your word in my heart

PSALM 119:1–16

PSALM 119 is perhaps most famously known for being the longest psalm, a fact that once saved a man’s life. George Wishart, a 17th-century bishop of Edinburgh, was waiting at the gallows for the inevitable, and he was permitted to choose a psalm to be read to him. He chose Psalm 119; the reader was only two thirds of the way through when a pardon was granted, allowing Wishart to live. It is to his benefit that he didn’t choose Psalm 117!

Psalm 119 might also appeal to literary buffs who enjoy carefully crafted writing, as it is an acrostic psalm taking the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet in order, with eight verses per letter, each verse beginning with that letter. Eastern Orthodox Church tradition claims that King David used this psalm to teach the young Solomon both his alphabet and the vital framework of the Torah for spiritual life. One could also be forgiven for thinking the author had an early copy of a thesaurus, as he finds more than 170 ways to describe the glory, enormity and purposes of God’s written word.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Try crafting your own psalm of worship and wonder.

Maybe you could write an acrostic psalm taking the letters ‘p-s-a-l-m’ as your starting point.

Verses 1 to 16 contain many verbs and calls to action in relation to our reading

of the Bible. They urge us to: meditate, recount, consider, delight, praise, seek, rejoice, walk, follow and obey. This highlights to us the importance of not just skim reading but spending time soaking up the words, appreciating what they say to us, and then allowing them to make a difference to the way we live out our faith.

The ancient practice of Lectio Divina (‘divine reading’) has become increasingly popular in recent years. As short passages of Scripture are prayerfully read over and over, the reader focuses on particular words and invites the Holy Spirit to illuminate the words and speak through them. No study books are required for this exercise. In Colossians 3:16, Paul instructs: ‘Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly’ (New Revised Standard Version). This, like Psalm 119, encourages us to lift the words from the page and plant them deep into our hearts. You may recall Sunday school days when memory verses were taught, this being one way of embedding the truths of God’s word into our hearts and minds.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Take some time today to sit with a Bible verse or passage, meditating on and delighting in it. How about trying to commit it to memory?

Make Psalm 119:1–3 your focus for the next few days. Write it out and put it in places where you will see it regularly and learn it thoroughly.

Verse 11 says ‘I have hidden your word in my heart’, and it also gives us the rationale for doing so – ‘that I might not sin against you’. We embed the word of God into our hearts so that we are ready and able to stand when trials and temptations are set before us.

Jesus demonstrates the value of this in his own life when he is in the wilderness and is tempted by the Devil (see Matthew 4:1–11). On each of the three occasions when the Devil tempts him, Jesus responds with the words ‘it is written’, followed by quotes from Scripture. Jesus was clearly well read where the Torah was concerned, and because of this was able to overcome the challenges thrown before him.

When the heart is filled with the goodness of God and his word, then this leaves little room for anything else that shouldn’t be there. The word for ‘hidden’ in the original Hebrew means ‘to treasure’ or ‘to store’; Jesus had God’s word stored up in his heart, ready for use.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Can you think of a time when words from the Bible have come to mind at a key moment for you or someone else?

What were they and what effect did thinking or saying them have on the situation?

At Easter we often turn to the story of the road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:13–35), where two of the disciples are walking and talking together, having witnessed

Captain Jennifer Gosling encourages us to treasure God’s word and store it up ready for use

the events surrounding Jesus’ death and resurrection in Jerusalem. Jesus joins them on the journey and, in their conversation, they sorrowfully recount the incredible events of the previous few days.

They have yet to recognise with whom they are talking. Jesus eventually interjects, and ‘beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself’ (Luke 24:27). At this pivotal moment in the lives of these despondent disciples, Jesus was able to draw on the knowledge of the Scriptures that was hidden in his heart and explain to them what they had seen, heard and misunderstood.

The beauty of this story is that not only do the disciples hear ‘the word’, but they also hear it from the incarnate Word of God – Jesus himself. This powerful encounter was such that their hearts burned within them.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Is the word of God so hidden in our hearts that we too can recall and recount God’s story to someone who desperately needs to hear it?

How could you prepare yourself for such a moment?

Prayer Matters contains daily devotions covering specific areas in the territory, current worldwide situations and personal reflection and relationship with God. A PDF of the unedited booklet is available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources

SOUTH COAST FOCUS by Major

Carol Young (Southsea)

SATURDAY 15 APRIL – 2 PETER 1:2 AND 3

Pray today for Weymouth, Dorchester, Portland, Swanage, Wimborne and Salisbury.

SUNDAY 16 APRIL – JUDE 1:24 AND 25

Pray today for the Divisional Headquarters team, prison ministries at HMP The Verne, for emergency services support offered by the division, and for retired officers and those supporting them.

YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S FOCUS by Children and Youth Department

MONDAY 17 APRIL – TERRITORIAL YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S SECRETARY MAJOR HELEN SCHOFIELD

Returning to school after the holidays brings a mixed bag of emotions. For some this is a positive time, but for others it will fill them with anxiety. Pray for children who struggle in the school environment. Pray that the right people will come alongside them and have an influence for good in their lives.

TUESDAY 18 APRIL – DEPUTY TERRITORIAL YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S SECRETARY PHIL BALL

Around the territory children are receiving mentoring through the Starfish programme. Pray that their lives are impacted by the time they spend with their mentor. Thank God for the mentors and their willingness to support each child. Pray for wisdom in all that they do, and that God will raise up more people for this important role.

WEDNESDAY 19 APRIL – YOUTH SPECIALIST (LEADER DEVELOPMENT) MATT PERKINS

Lord, we pray for the many children and young people who live in our communities, particularly for the children and youth leaders across the territory. We pray that young people will see something of your love for them, and their lives might be more fulfilled and fruitful. Amen.

THURSDAY 20 APRIL – YOUTH SPECIALIST (DISCIPLESHIP) JO TAYLOR

Our young people are navigating a radically different world from the one many of us grew up in. Shifts in how we use technology, our economic challenges, climate change and a greater understanding of human diversity have all contributed to a generation that is open, socially aware and compassionate. They have so much to teach us! Pray for them as they grow in wisdom that they’ll lead us to a better understanding of Jesus.

FRIDAY 21 APRIL – OUTREACH MISSION PARTNER RICHARD PRESCOTT

Many of Jesus’ teachings took place outdoors, surrounded by the natural world. He used everyday familiar natural elements such as trees, flowers, animals and water to paint pictures of what the Kingdom of God is like. Pray that children today get the opportunity to explore the teachings of Jesus in a new way by getting outside and experiencing creation with all their senses.

PRAYER REQUESTS

CAPTAIN JENNIFER GOSLING Corps Officer Edinburgh City

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 the Territorial Prayer Network will uphold them in prayer.

Comradeship

LONELINESS and the unhappiness which springs from it are to be found everywhere in society. People walk about, eat and drink, talk and go through the ordinary duties of social life together and yet have no real communion of soul. Heart does not speak to heart. They are alone.

I am afraid that there is a good deal of this experience in some of our corps. We meet, sing and pray together but heart union is too often sadly wanting. Yet a corps ought to be a real spiritual family. All Salvationists ought to regard their comrades as brothers and sisters. Instead of this I am afraid that there is with some people a great deal of the cold stand-off spirit.

This is a great pity. We can never tell how much we lose by it or how much suffering it entails upon many good and faithful souls who are shy. I can never forget, for example, what a disheartening and dispiriting effect this kind of thing had upon me when I first came to London as a young man and almost an entire stranger.

Let me mention a few reasons why Salvationists should cherish a friendly spirit.

The first reason is the personal pleasure such friendliness imparts. The joy flowing out of genuine friendship cannot very well be overestimated. To know that there are comrades who really love you, whose eyes sparkle, whose hearts beat warmly and whose hands are reached out eagerly when you meet them creates pleasure, not only while you are together but when you think about it all the day through.

Yes, a friend is a precious treasure, and Salvationists ought not only to find such

treasures in their corps but should strive to make themselves a friend to their comrades.

The second reason Salvationists should cultivate this friendly spirit is because of the mutual comfort it will bring in the sorrows and trials of life.

We all have our afflictions and losses. We have all to follow our loved ones to the grave and sooner or later to lie down there ourselves. In these trying hours, how welcome is the sympathy and how precious the help with which the hand of friendship soothes the wounded spirit, lifts the despairing heart and smooths the dying pillow.

The third reason is that this friendly spirit is powerful in its influence for good on the world around us.

Nothing strikes the strangers who find themselves within our walls more forcibly, or affects them more, than the loving friendly faces they meet with on every side. They are constrained to say, ‘See how these Salvationists love one another!’ Oh, that this spirit were more prevalent and powerful than it is! Let us cultivate it, my comrades.

The fourth reason for cherishing a friendly spirit is that it may secure help and make friends for our work.

A perfect stranger died some years ago leaving quite a large sum of money to the Army. His lawyer told us that he was led to do so because on entering an Army hall in a town where he was a complete stranger, some Salvationist shook him by the hand and inquired after his spiritual welfare. He always dressed as a working man though he was very well off.

But how are we to get more of this spirit?

First, be at more trouble to acquaint yourselves with each other. While it is true that some Salvationists are bold enough, others are too timid to speak to or look at, much less shake hands with, their comrades. What is the reason for this? It arises very largely from thinking too much about yourselves and what people will think about you.

Never mind what your comrades may think about you or your looks or your words; speak up and speak out. Make yourselves at home and show yourselves friendly. Especially do this with the new converts, who are only too often caressed one night and passed coldly by the night after.

Next, practise forbearance with your comrades. Many people at the outset do not respond to our approaches as perhaps we think they ought. Have patience with them. Grace works differently through different dispositions. An ounce of this precious article will fill some to overflowing with joy and gladness, while others will be hardly moved by a ton.

Then, trust your comrades. Don’t be suspicious. Don’t expect perfection all at once. Give them time. If you find them lacking, seek by your own example and by your prayers to supply their need.

Finally, look out for a chance of befriending them. If we would have friends, we must show ourselves friendly. Bless your comrades, and they will bless you.

Back to thyself is measured well

All thou hast given;

Thy neighbour’s wrong is thy present hell, His bliss thy heaven.

Continuing a series of messages that William Booth sent to corps to be read in Sunday meetings

Engaging insights into making unity work

Territorial Ecumenical Officer Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts reviews Is Kindness Killing the Church? by Hugh Osgood

HAVE you ever wondered what

Christian unity really means? As director of Churches in Communities International, former moderator of the Free Churches Group and a former president of Churches Together in England, the Rev Dr Hugh Osgood is well placed to give helpful insights – and does so in this intriguingly titled book.

Although kindness is generally a good thing, Dr Osgood believes it sometimes hinders Christian unity and mission. Trying to come together without engaging with one another’s strongly held beliefs and practices, and politely agreeing to disagree, is counterproductive. ‘Better to disagree passionately,’ he says, ‘and to value each other’s passion as part of the strength of our unity and to see it as an important contribution to our impact on society.’

Underlying this approach is the conviction that Christians are already united by the Holy Spirit and need to turn this relational unity into a practical and visible reality. This is achieved not by uniformity within a single Church structure but by different churches listening to, learning from and being shaped by one another. The aim is to have ‘effective and robust local inter-church relationships’.

In his book Dr Osgood shows how churches can engage with one another in this way. Seven chapters tell the story of the life, growth and spread of the early Church. These are interspersed with descriptions of seven imaginary 21stcentury churches, each characterised by one word: conciliatory, conforming, comprehensive, curious, concerned, courteous and confident. Salvationists

A useful resource

might find it interesting to consider which of these seven imaginary 21stcentury churches most closely resembles their corps or the Army more generally!

Dr Osgood shows how these churches interact with each other and face issues similar to those of the 1st century. Each church then has a letter written to it from the perspective of the leaders of the seven churches, as in Revelation 2 and 3.

The structure of the book is engaging, with points for reflection and response at the end of each chapter. At just 130 pages, it will not take long to read but may have a lasting impact on individuals and churches that take its insights seriously.

l Is Kindness Killing the Church? is available from amazon.co.uk priced £9.99 or as a Kindle ebook priced £6.99

Major Stephen Oliver (WBC) reviews The New Testament’s Vision of Mission by Ian

GROVE Books continues to serve the Church with affordable publications addressing contemporary questions related to the Bible, Christian ethics, spirituality, and more. Written from a distinct Anglican evangelical perspective, the Rev Dr Ian Paul has produced an accessible, yet challenging series of reflections on some sample passages, drawn from his considerable depth of scholarship.

Opening with the question ‘Does the Bible believe in mission?’, Paul notes that ‘mission’ is not a word used in the Bible, but that the motif of God sending people is a consistent biblical idea, which he demonstrates from some key Old Testament passages.

Paul challenges the idea that mission

is ‘about seeing what God is doing and joining in’; rather, he sets out to demonstrate that mission is ‘seeing what God wants to do, but cannot until those he sends go and proclaim the good news in word and deed’. This raises questions about God’s sovereign purposes, a theme which Paul develops in a series of reflections on the parable of the seed (see Mark 4:26–34), Jesus’ ‘Nazareth Manifesto’ (see Luke 4:14–28); the sending of the 72 (see Luke 10:1–20); and the gospel reaching Europe (Acts 16:6–15). Each short chapter is accompanied by a series of helpful reflection questions. Throughout, Paul advocates a New Testament vision of mission as one in which fruitfulness depends on both proclamation and

Paul

demonstration, reminding us that ‘it is the Spirit who is the director of mission’. While suffering in places from its necessary brevity, and perhaps lacking a ‘further reading’ list, this book is a useful resource for individuals or leadership teams to reflect biblically on their own practice. Paul reminds us: ‘Mission must never be reduced to techniques. There are right and wrong ways to sow and to water, and we need to sow and water well, but it is God who gives the growth.’ May we continue to look to the one who alone gives the growth, and may the Spirit give us the ‘confidence to speak of the love of God in the person of Jesus’.

l The New Testament’s Vision of Mission is published by grovebooks.co.uk

BELIEVING IN BELONGING

Secretary for Mission Lieut-Colonel Drew

McCombe tells Salvationist about the territory’s new research

What does ‘membership’ mean to you?

It’s about belonging, participation and commitment. Not just feeling that you belong, but having as full participation within our Movement as possible. That is why territorial leadership has formed a Membership Working Group: to have an open, frank, mature conversation about Salvation Army membership in this territory.

What does the Membership Working Group want to find out?

We have a sincere desire to understand our own people and people who are not yet part of our Movement. Part of what the group is exploring is the question: What does it mean to enter the Kingdom of God, and what does that mean for people entering the Kingdom in today’s society and culture?

What are the positives that are bringing people to formal membership? What are some of the barriers? How do we ensure as full participation as possible? For example, across the territory in the past 20 years, we’ve found an opening up to open sections in some places, which has enabled participation without necessarily signing up to formal membership. I do not want to lessen the emphasis on commitment. Participation is about playing your part. To play your part, there is an element of commitment. I think we can encourage that in all sorts of ways.

What are formal membership numbers like?

They are, and have been, declining for years. The numbers are no secret – they’re published in the year book. Pastoral care councils and divisional leaders do an annual update on corps membership,

into membership

which feeds into divisional and territorial figures. If you project that into the future, it is concerning, but I want to be clear that this isn’t about numbers. I think we are actually far bigger as a Movement, in terms of the people gathering as part of the Army, than the figures suggest. In my experience, there are many followers of Jesus who are not adherents, junior soldiers or soldiers. There are even people stepping into elements of leadership who are not formally recognised.

Is there a wider social trend in terms of how people view membership?

Some answers we get will possibly reflect today’s culture and society, one that’s less formal, less membership-driven. Some people would probably say, ‘I belong already. Why do I need to sign a bit of paper?’

Have you always been a member of the Army?

My parents were members of the Army. My dad was converted in the Plymouth Brethren and my mum came from the Baptist Church. I became a soldier before I really understood it. There was a period when I rebelled against it, then I discovered Jesus as my personal Saviour and Lord and that is what it is really all about. I wasn’t someone with no previous connection to the Army.

Why is this something you’re passionate about?

Belonging, participation and commitment are central to my faith. We’re not called to be isolated Christians; we’re called to be together. My relationship with God is not just vertical. God, to me. It is also

horizontal to others. Love God, love others. That is how I understand the body of Christ. It’s about being valued, being recognised, being seen as a resource to each other. That kind of every-member ministry is a concept the body of Christ speaks of.

Do you worry that some people don’t feel valued or recognised? That’s certainly one of the things we want to find out. Nobody would want people not to feel that they belonged or are valued. In the Army we have a ‘whosoever will’ approach generally, so we try not to make any discrimination between anybody. It pains me to think that someone would feel any barrier to belonging, whatever

COMMISSIONER PAUL DU PLESSIS Retired Officer London

that might be. That’s the importance of holding together both the horizontal and vertical relationship with God.

Is the working group seeking to change existing forms of membership?

We are wanting to find out the reasons why people are and are not becoming formal members. I think our conversation in this territory will make a positive contribution to the wider conversation around the Army world and International Headquarters will be very interested in our findings. The end report we produce will go to territorial leadership and to our territorial Cabinet, and will then be further reflected upon, so that we might join

a wider conversation through IHQ with the rest of the world, for example Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

We’re not coming with a proposal or theory or anything like that. There is no end decision or route in mind. Discernment and wisdom come first, before you jump to any decision. I think that is as true for our territory as it would be for the international Salvation Army.

Why have this conversation?

We’re not starting this conversation. We’re joining a conversation that’s already happening. We need to listen to where people are coming from.

There are so many convergent issues around the whole topic of membership. For example, membership speaks into leadership, locally in terms of volunteer leadership, but also officers, envoys, pioneers, all aspects of leadership.

There are also multiple conversations going on around race, sexuality and disability inclusion, which local leaders are meeting every day in the people they come across in their communities. If we are to be as inclusive as we can be, we need to have a look at these issues.

Will everyone be able to speak into the conversation?

I’m conscious this conversation will evoke strong emotions in everyone, from people of a more conservative view to people of a more liberal view. I think we need to try and be respectful of hearing everyone’s voices. In having this conversation, everyone needs to be at the table and have their voice listened to.

Through listening to all these viewpoints, and through the exploration that we will do, we will try and sense under God and the wisdom of our leaders where that takes us. At the end of the day, whatever the outcome, we will be better for listening and having had the conversation.

How will you capture a wide range of views?

I think we have to mix up how we do it. Once we finalise the research questions, we’ll establish a methodology. There may be a survey aspect, but we are probably looking at something more conversational. For example, advisory groups to have division-wide conversations or focus groups on a local level. We’ll look at multiple options, including an email address for the working group.

What work has been done so far?

The working group has only just started to meet. It’s early days and more will be said as we develop the work. At this stage, we would like to invite everyone to save the date for an event that will take place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 October.

What can you tell us about the event in October?

The working title is Belonging and Believing: The Big Conversation. It will be an inclusive opportunity for people to engage with what it means to be a member of The Salvation Army and what Scripture says about the Kingdom. We are looking to hold it at William Booth College. We’re also looking at the possibility of recording some of the sessions so that people can engage with it in their own settings and as many hearts and minds as possible are part of the conversation.

What excites you about membership today?

I’m a fan of people finding their place, using whatever gifts and skills they have in the body of Christ. The Army is flourishing in different local contexts, and I want to have conversations to understand why. For example, we will look at what we can learn from the Armáda Spásy corps, because something exciting is going on there. We also want to find out about other territories. In places such as India and Pakistan, the Army is really growing in terms of formal memberships. What is going on there?

This is an exciting opportunity to look at how we affirm membership and release the potential in people. How can we reimagine what radical, life-giving discipleship looks like? Something that’s attractive, vital, inspiring and makes a difference.

l For more information, email belonging@salvationarmy.org.uk

SAVE THE DATE

WHAT: Belonging and Believing: The Big Conversation

WHEN: 7 and 8 October

WHERE: William Booth College

“ What does it mean to enter the Kingdom in today’s society?

Called to be an Army of

WARWICK UNIVERSITY

THE 2023 Youth and Children’s Leaders Conference was an inspiring, God-filled weekend, reports Hannah Potter (Norwich Citadel)

The weekend reminded delegates that God is out there and working in communities, and that they need to have their eyes open to see it and join in. Guest speaker Dr Selina Stone used the story of the feeding of the 5,000 to reflect on God’s Kingdom: God is establishing family relationships, connections and deep love with us. We should therefore not require children, young people and their families to cross barriers or conform to rules before they are welcomed into the Kingdom of God.

Over the weekend, hearing about what was going on around the territory and having discussions with people was a blessing. It was amazing to see that God is on the move. He is working and hasn’t finished with our Army yet!

As everyone present delved deeper into the theme of Shalom, it became clear that shalom is not just a Hebrew

word for peace, but wholeness of life and how life should be. Shalom belongs to God and begins when God disrupts our everyday. The weekend challenged us to be ready to be disrupted, both personally and as an Army, and be surprised by God – what he might do and what he is already doing.

Exploring shalom in the terms of injustice, Andrew Grinnell spoke about how injustice is driven by scarcity and shalom begins when justice comes back into the equation. On Sunday morning headphones from the silent disco were used to connect in a different way by listening to the experiences of migrants. It was said that the Old Testament is a story about migration, written by migrants for migrants, and yet we often read it from a powerful and privileged position.

Shalom justice is about right relationships between people and the planet. Children and young people face so much in the world today – a constant battle with social media, war, the climate crisis and more – and looking at the world can be incredibly saddening. But that changes when we

Shalom: Explained

‘Shalom’ appears in the Bible 250 times and refers to wholeness, justice and community. It means connectedness with others, with creation and with God.

begin to look to a new abundance of relationships, possibilities and hope. The conference encouraged children and youth leaders to point people towards this.

Delegates then looked at shalom and Jesus, using the story of Jesus’ temptations in the desert. This powerful discussion drew on who we are as Christians, as children of God, and as leaders of children and youth in The Salvation Army. The part that was most poignant for me was choosing vulnerability, accepting that we are vulnerable and that shalom doesn’t start with us having it all together.

Reflecting on Matthew 3:17 – ‘This

Pictures: Nathan Bright / Richard Prescott

Shalom-makers

I’LL FIGHT

rewritten by Hannah Potter

While there remains one young person who doesn’t know their worth, I’ll fight.

While young people are rejected for who they are and families are pushed away because of where they’ve come from, I’ll fight.

While people remain certain they are not enough and define themselves by the world’s values, I’ll fight.

While the world suffers because of the way we abuse, exploit and mistreat it, and the climate crisis continues, I’ll fight.

is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased’ – reminded us how much God loves each one of us and how he takes us in our fragile state and makes something beautiful. Jesus resisted temptation because he knew who he was, and he resisted frustration because he knew what he was for; shalom is found when we know who we are and what we are for.

On Sunday, Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Major Helen Schofield challenged us that shalom love is the love of striving for justice. The Message paraphrase of Revelation 21:3–5 was referenced, which speaks about how God has ‘moved into the neighbourhood’. Helen reminded delegates that he is here today calling us to fight against the injustices that young people face.

Helen used William Booth’s ‘I’ll fight’ speech to challenge everyone further and delegates rewrote their own versions for this moment, looking into the spaces where young people exist and reflecting on how to share Jesus with them, meet them where they are physically and psychologically.

This was highlighted when Lee Ball spoke on the topic of trauma-informed care. It was emotionally striking to learn about how experiences of trauma shape the core beliefs people have about themselves and the world around them.

The weekend called children and youth leaders to action and to make a difference in the everyday, joining with God and his shalom. We are called to be an Army of shalom-makers, who listen to God’s voice and invite God to lead us to know what we should be embodying at the time of meeting people’s needs, not just sending them away. God has an abundance and can meet needs in a way that we never thought possible. We left the conference inspired to share his love, build his Kingdom and be Jesus in this broken and hurting society, inviting children and young people into the goodness and shalom of God.

l Recordings of the conference and other materials are available to download at salvationist.org.uk/ shalom . For more information, email childrenyouth@salvationarmy.org.uk

While children and young people live with the effects of trauma and abuse and live in fear every day, not knowing who to trust, I’ll fight.

While the use of social media rises along with adolescent self-harming and suicide rates, I’ll fight.

While families are unable to afford basic necessities – food, shelter, clothing, warmth – in the current cost of living crisis, I’ll fight.

While there is one child who feels there is no hope for the future, I’ll fight.

While God’s shalom and love are not present in the lives of those in our local and global communities, I’ll fight – I’ll fight to the very end.

‘I want to raise money for what we’re doing’

Major Kathy Betteridge explains why she is running her ninth marathon for modern slavery survivors

TERRITORIAL Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Major Kathy Betteridge and a colleague from the department will be running the London Marathon next weekend, raising funds to make a difference for survivors of modern slavery.

Kathy’s prime motivation for putting on her running shoes is to take a stand against injustice. ‘I see a life damaged, used and abused and it is not acceptable,’ she explains. ‘Hearing people’s stories and seeing how it has affected them creates emotions in me and I must do something about it.’

Kathy previously worked in Scotland and her role included working as a prison chaplain. The role she now has ranges from meeting clients and staff members at safe houses to speaking at events, including attending parliamentary events to meet MPs.

The Salvation Army provides specialist support to protect and care for all adult survivors of modern slavery in England and Wales through a government contract that was first awarded in 2011 and extended in 2021. But the department’s work is more than just providing a contracted service. It has developed a strategy that includes interaction and engagement with corps and centres across the territory and around the world.

To this end, Kathy and her team ensure The Salvation Army is involved in supporting survivors of modern slavery to rebuild and progress their lives.

Kathy highlights: ‘In one part of the country, a corps nearby to a safe house offers chaplaincy support, organises activities and helps with gardening and maintaining the outdoor area. Survivors go to the corps and take part in volunteering opportunities. They have a good relationship.’

In London a music group is giving survivors the confidence they need. Kathy says: ‘One woman was frightened to leave where she lived, and her support worker accompanied her to the group. She was anxious at first, but a year later she is a different person. She has gained confidence through participating.’

Kathy points out that it is part of The Salvation Army’s history to support the vulnerable and adds: ‘Slavery is still happening, just in a different form. The Salvation Army has values and our Christian faith threads through our work.’

To help Kathy keep focused and energised, she loves to run: ‘Running helps me keep fit and keeps me mentally agile. I love it and this year I am running in the London Marathon for our department. I want to raise money for what we’re doing.’

Kathy is hoping that supporters will donate generously at justgiving.com/integrated-mission

INSPIRED TO RUN IN 2024?

Enter the ballot

The ballot for the 2024 London Marathon opens at the end of April. If you are selected, you can choose to fundraise for the Army.

Apply for a charity place

Alternatively, you can apply to run with the Army and secure a charity place. Every year the Army purchases places from the London Marathon to give to runners. Runners fill out an application and pledge to raise their fundraising target, which helps the Army’s social work.

For more information, or if you have a ballot place and want to fundraise for the Army, email london.marathon@salvationarmy.org.uk

Congress celebrates 135 years

GENERAL Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle made their first visit to the Caribbean as international leaders to celebrate the 135th anniversary of the territory’s mission.

They were warmly welcomed by territorial leaders Commissioners Devon and Verona Haughton, the governor-general of Jamaica, His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, and the prime minister of Jamaica, the Most Honourable

Andrew Holness.

After officers’ councils on Friday, an exuberant congress fanfare of the 16 nations from across the Caribbean welcomed the international leaders, with almost 700 joyful Salvationists joining with local dignitaries for the civic and public welcome.

On Saturday, the General and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, supported by the territorial leaders, received the salute from more than 500 uniformed Salvationists during an open-air march

of witness in downtown Kingston at the site of the first open-air meeting in Jamaica 135 years ago. Hundreds of market shoppers were stirred by the large, visible presence of The Salvation Army, and a clarion call to receive Jesus as Saviour was shared. This was followed by the international leaders engaging with 200 young people and an evening of Caribbean reflections.

On the Sunday morning, ‘Will you do as the Lord commands?’ was the question posed by the General to nearly

1,000 people gathered in the Jamaica College auditorium. A large number responded in prayer at the mercy seat.

During the final Sunday celebration, Commissioner Rosalie challenged the crowd to ‘fight fiercely’ to keep the mission moving forward and Commissioner Devon Haughton gave a call to officership, with 32 people responding. A ‘hallelujah wind-up’ of praise and dance demonstrated the spirit of Caribbean Salvationism. – DM

INTERNATIONAL

MUSIC

DROITWICH SPA Staffordshire Band and Charlie Green presented a feast of music and song. Beautiful arrangements from the pen of the band’s resident composer, Sam Shelley (Cannock), made everyone proud to witness his growth as a writer and Christian. Charlie is pictured with conductor Craig Williams and organiser of the event, Richard Campbell MBE. – MM

MEETING

DARLINGTON Commissioners Dorita and John Wainwright led Self-Denial Sunday. They brought to life some of the work being supported by the appeal by speaking of their international service, particularly referring to Joytown Primary School in Kenya. – SM

BALHAM Students from Stockholm visited the corps, taking part in a Cameo armchair exercise session along with people from a nearby care home. They also took part in arts and crafts and enjoyed fellowship together – especially singing along to Abba! Lunch followed, then games and a devotion led by corps officer Captain Marie Burr. – TO

PRESENTATION

CLOWNE Corps folk said a special farewell to Majors Mark and Sarah Price, who had overseen the work of the corps for eight months during a period without officers. A presentation of a small gift was made by Autumn Culley and Val Straw. – GH

CHELMSFORD LEICESTER SOUTH

BELFAST SYDENHAM

POPPY, Kaylin, Rufaro and Micah were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Keira Wood. They each shared what it meant to follow Jesus and why they had decided to become junior soldiers. They signed the Junior Soldier’s Promise at the mercy seat and prayed with some of the older junior soldiers.

CAROL Kerr was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Lieutenant James Pegg. A Christian of some 45 years, Carol has been coming to the corps for some months and decided that she would like to make the corps her spiritual home. Carol testified that the corps felt like family and was a welcoming place where she could learn more about Jesus and grow in her faith. – JB

TEN-year-old Ruby and Josh were recently enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Captain Lorna White. While Josh has always come to the corps with his nana, over the past few months he has felt his faith developing and he wanted to hear more about Jesus and the Bible. Ruby started coming to the crafts club and Messy Church. She has felt God calling her and feels being a Christian has given her more confidence. – LW

MAT Jenkinson was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Carl Huggins. – BB

FELTHAM SHIREBROOK

CORPS officer Major Ian Mountford enrolled Cora, Katy-Joyce, Bethany, Mally and Alexander as junior soldiers on the annual YP prizegiving Sunday, which was led by Junior Soldiers Sergeant Tania Smith. – TM

– KW

CORPS folk welcomed Catherine ‘Cat’ Nidd as an adherent. She is pictured with corps officer Major Vincent Wall and supported by CSM Peter Raggett. – IB

RIPLEY

DAVID MORRISH BARNSTAPLE

DAVID Morrish, born in Barnstaple in 1927, was a cheerful, lifelong Christian who became a uniformed Salvationist in 2004 after attending luncheon club for a number of years.

He enjoyed the Army style of informal, joyful worship and the care that Salvationists extend to the wider community. To him his uniform told the world that he was a follower and servant of Jesus.

Following retirement from his popular music shop in the town, David volunteered to sell the War Cry; a chance to talk to others about Jesus. During meetings he would pray publicly and always prayed for Queen Elizabeth II and the government, asking God to guide them.

David was a man with a strong yetx simple and unswerving faith in the love of God and his place within God’s family. One former corps officer summed up David’s life, which his friends and family concur with, as: ‘a lovely man and a true servant of God.’ – GR

JOHN PAYNE SHERINGHAM

JOHN was a lifelong Salvationist.

Born in Coventry he was a member of Coventry City Corps for more than 60 years. During that time, he served in the band and was the corps treasurer, band sergeant and corps sergeant-major. He also was at Boscombe Corps for four years serving in the band and as the band sergeant.

In 2006, during retirement, John moved to Sheringham Corps, where he served in the band and as the corps treasurer. He was also part of the North Norfolk Fellowship Band and the Norfolk Choral Fellowship.

John particularly enjoyed playing his trombone and witnessing in the open air, especially at the seafront.

After a short illness, John was promoted to Glory and will be missed by members of his family and many friends at the corps. – BL

JENNIFER TURNER SOUTHPORT

JENNY grew up in Southport and was well known in the community, in part because she worked as a school dinner lady.

A long-time member of Southport Corps, she was a songster, a member of the ladies’ fellowship and also manager of the corps charity shop. Her involvement in corps activities continued after she retired, becoming a member of the Young at Heart Club and a key member of a group tasked with raising money for the corps building fund.

In her later years Jenny began to suffer from mobility problems, yet she continued to attend the corps whenever possible. A fine example of a dedicated Salvationist, Jenny will be greatly missed by her husband, Charles, together with her daughter and two sons. – GM

ARMY PEOPLE

Local officers appointed

CT DAN PRIOR , Liverpool Stoneycroft

Wedding anniversaries

Emerald (55 years)

MAJORS MELVYN AND WENDY KNOTT, 24 April

Dedicated to God

STANLEY, ELLIOT and EUNICE-ROSE , children of Darryl Litchfield and Danielle Warner, at Wellingborough by Captain Alison Chapman

Retired officers’ birthdays

MAJOR LAWRENCE HOPE , 85 on 29 April

MAJOR SANDRA FORD, 80 on 29 April

Promoted to Glory

BRIAN NEAL , Bradford Orchard

LES JOHNSON , Ipswich Citadel, on 24 March

Bereaved

JANET JOHNSON , Ipswich Citadel, of her husband Les Johnson

Official Gazette

Retirements from active service

Effective 1 April

MAJOR MARGARET

HARDY (née Phimister) out of Findochty in 1983 and last appointment Severn and Somerset DHQ

MAJOR ESTHER KNOTT (née Mogford) out of Pill in 2002 and last appointment Bath Temple

COMMISSIONER

ANTHONY COTTERILL

Territorial Commander

ENGAGEMENTS

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Fri 28 Apr ICO (farewell meeting)

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Commissioner Gillian Cotterill

Sat 15 Apr Methodist Central Hall, Westminster (United Reformed Church 50th anniversary)

Tue 18 Apr High Leigh Conference Centre (Officers’ Pre-Retirement Seminar)

Sat 22 Apr – Sun 23 Apr Newcastle City Temple

Wed 26 Apr William Booth College (spiritual day)

Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Colonel Jenine Main

Mon 17 Apr William Booth College (15 year celebration of officership)

Sat 22 Apr – Sun 23 Apr Bolton Citadel (mini-retreat)

NOTICES

Prayerful protest against fossil fuels

The Salvation Army is joining with other Christian groups for a No Faith in Fossil Fuels church service and a climate pilgrimage in London. Join from 11am on Friday 21 April at St John’s Church, Waterloo, to pray for leaders to take action, followed by a walk to parliament, joining thousands calling on the UK government to stop new investment in fossil fuels. If you plan to attend, email the Environmental Office on environment@salvationarmy.org.uk

The Church as an evangelising community

Join a free webinar on 18 April at 11am, hosted by Churches Together in England, looking at the Church as an evangelising community. Speakers include Dr Alison Kolosova (an Orthodox Christian working at the University of Tartu in Estonia), the Rev Mawethu Ncaca (a South African Episcopalian priest ministering in North Carolina, USA), the Rev Dr Jeff Conklin-Miller (Cliff College) and Dr Jay Mātenga (World Evangelical Alliance). Register to attend at eventbrite.co.uk/e/504438357707

Salvation Army uniform recycling scheme

A new recycling scheme for pre-loved Salvation Army uniforms has been launched. The Uniform Take Back Scheme receives old formal uniform items so they can be recycled or re-used. Find out more, and learn about the territory’s mission priority to care for creation, at salvationist.org.uk/uniformtakeback

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship podcast

Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays on Salvationist Radio? Catch up with our weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

l Listen at salvationist.org.uk/radio

RECRUITING NOW YOUTH WORKER RAMSGATE CORPS, KENT

Ramsgate Corps is looking for a committed Christian to join them to develop and lead their youth and young adults ministry. You will have the support of the corps officers and church leadership to implement the vision of nurturing and encouraging young people in the Christian faith.

Key responsibilities:

l Youth programme and activities for young people (11–18) and young adults (18–30)

l Pastoral care of young people linked with the corps

l Recruit, inspire and lead a team of volunteers

l Provide an environment and activities that nurture and encourage young people in the Christian faith

l Pioneer and implement new youth ventures and ministries resulting from community consultation

l Network with agencies, schools, colleges and other churches to deliver detached youth work provision in response to community needs

You will be able to demonstrate:

l A Christian faith with a passion for working with young people

l A qualification in youth work or willingness to study towards it, or evidence of transferable qualifications

l Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with young people in different settings

l Previous experience of organising and leading a wide range of youth activities

This role has an occupational requirement to be a practising Christian.

Salary

£19,893 per annum

– £22,599 per annum

Working hours

35 hours per week, including Sundays and some evenings

Contract

Fixed Term: 3 years

Details

25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time); a contributory pension scheme; season ticket loan; an employee assistance programme

Closing date

Sunday 30 April

Interview date

To be confirmed

For further details and to apply please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/jobs

Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK, Enhanced DBS Disclosure. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality in the workplace.

SALTCOATS, 12 MANSE STREET KA21 5AA

Sunday 30 April, 3pm

VALEDICTORY SERVICE

Messages of appreciation by email to westscotland@ salvationarmy.org.uk , or by mail to West Scotland DHQ, 4 Buchanan Court, Stepps G33 6HZ

TO LET

ALTEA, SPAIN Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom heated apartment. Pool, tennis, garden, garage. Shops, restaurants, beach close, hill-walking. Warm winter area. Airport transfers available. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.

TOPSHAM, DEVON Two-bedroom cottage overlooking Exe Estuary and hills. Local shops, inns, teashops, walks. Coast, moors, Exeter nearby. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.

ADVERTISING RATES

ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT

TYPE SIZE 1 ISSUE 3 ISSUES

Classified listing Up to 25 words £9 £20

Classified listing Up to 50 words £18 £40

Small box (1/32nd page) 30mm x 43mm £15 £40

Medium box (1/16th page) 30mm x 89mm £35 £85

Large box (1/8th page) 62mm x 89mm £65 £170

Quarter page 89mm x 127mm £170 £440

Half page 127mm x 181mm £340 £850

Full back page 181mm x 258mm £675 £1,650

ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.

WOKING, SYTHWOOD GU21 3BE

Sunday 23 April, 11am

RETIREMENT OF MAJORS DAVID AND MARGARET HOUSE

Led by Majors Mike and Lisa Lloyd-Jones

CASTLEFORD, BOOTH ST WF10 1SA

Saturday 22 April, 7pm

AN EVENING WITH CASTLEFORD BAND AND CROFTON SILVER BAND

Tickets: £8 (£6 concessions)

Available on 07510 517567 or email sarahshep87@gmail.com

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.

GOVAN CORPS, 44 GOLSPIE STREET G51 3EW

Sunday 25 June, 4.30pm

Preliminary announcement

VALEDICTORY SERVICE FOR THE WEST SCOTLAND DIVISION

Incorporating the retirement from active service of Majors Pat and Ray Brown and Major Dean Logan conducted by Commissioner Keith Banks and featuring the Divisional Youth Band and Youth Chorus

Messages of appreciation by email to westscotland@salvationarmy.org.uk or by mail to West Scotland DHQ, 4 Buchanan Court, Stepps G33 6HZ